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Adelaide watched as Emily darted across the garden, her tiny feet barely touching the ground as she ran after a butterfly. The girl’s laughter rang out, high and pure, as the butterfly fluttered just out of her reach, teasing her like an impish sprite. Though Adelaide couldn’t respond to Emily’s laughter with her own voice, her smile was wide and full of joy. The warmth of the sun on her back and the gentle breeze weaving through the trees made the moment feel almost magical.
“Mama, look!” Emily shouted, waving an outstretched hand with a triumphant grin. Her golden curls tumbled over her shoulders, wild and free.
Adelaide lifted her hand and waved back, her smile soft and encouraging. She pointed to the butterfly and signed, So beautiful! Emily’s grin widened, and she nodded, eyes sparkling before she spun back to her chase.
The little girl’s boundless spirit reminded Adelaide of her father—determined and full of hope. Adelaide picked up her pencil and continued sketching, the lines flowing effortlessly across the page as she captured the scene. Her art had flourished over the years, a silent but powerful voice expressing everything she felt. The walls of Carenwood and beyond now held her work, each piece infused with the love and peace she’d found in her life with Alexander.
She felt a familiar presence nearby. Turning, she found Alexander standing a few steps away, his eyes fixed on Emily, pride etched across his face. His fingers lightly tapped his chest before he signed, She’s like you.
Adelaide shook her head gently, touching her hand to her heart before pointing to him. She has your strength, she signed back, her eyes shimmering.
Alexander’s lips curled into a smile, his eyes softening. He lifted his leather-bound journal and tapped it with his finger before signing, I wrote a new poem. About her.
Adelaide’s curiosity sparked, and she nodded eagerly. Please share it with me, she signed.
Alexander’s hands moved gracefully, his signs weaving the lines of his poem with a rhythm that transcended sound:
“In the morning’s first light, so pure,
A laugh like a song, simple and sure.
A child’s heart, so full and bright,
Chasing dreams in the golden light.
She dances through fields of hope and grace,
A fleeting moment, a joyful face.
And though the world may seem to turn,
Her spirit’s flame will forever burn.”
As he finished, Adelaide’s eyes glistened. She reached out, her fingers brushing his hand, and signed, It’s beautiful. She is our greatest gift.
Alexander smiled, his gaze filled with affection. He reached up, his fingers gently brushing a stray lock of hair from her face before signing, And so are you. You’ve filled my life with more love than I ever thought possible.
They stood together, their hands intertwined, sharing a moment of deep understanding. Though words never passed Adelaide’s lips and Alexander couldn’t hear the world around him, their love spoke volumes in every touch and every glance.
Behind them, footsteps rustled through the grass. Adelaide turned and saw Benjamin and Harriet approaching, their twin boys tumbling ahead of them. Benjamin caught Adelaide’s eye and signed, We couldn’t resist a visit.
Adelaide smiled and waved, drawing Alexander’s attention with a gentle touch on his arm. He turned, his eyes lighting up as he recognized their friends. The children’s energy filled the garden with life, their laughter echoing around them as they played.
As the sun dipped lower, the golden light casting long shadows, the family gathered on the terrace. Emily and the twins sprawled on the grass, weaving daisy chains and sharing giggles. Harriet leaned against Benjamin, her eyes bright with contentment.
Later that afternoon, everyone gathered in the drawing room. Catherine and Benedict had arrived with their children, their presence adding to the lively warmth that filled Carenwood. Margaret sat by the fire, her knitting needles moving deftly, though her eyes often strayed to the children, her love for them shining in every glance.
Adelaide watched the scene, her heart swelling with gratitude. She turned to Alexander and signed, Our family has grown so much. It’s everything I ever wanted.
Alexander nodded, squeezing her hand. And more, he signed.
Benedict chuckled as he ruffled his son’s hair. “We’ve learned it takes a village to manage all of this,” he said, his eyes crinkling with good humor.
Margaret raised her knitting needles with a mischievous twinkle. “And I’m the one keeping that village in line,” she teased.
The room erupted in laughter. Adelaide’s smile deepened, the warmth of the moment settling into her bones. The love they shared—simple, unwavering—had carried them through trials and triumphs, and now it anchored them to a life rich with meaning.
Alexander tapped Adelaide’s shoulder and held up his journal again. He signed, One more poem, just for you.
Adelaide nodded, her eyes bright with anticipation. The room quieted as Alexander signed:
“My love, my life, my endless heart,
From you, my soul shall never part.
In every breath, in every sound,
Your love is where my peace is found.”
Tears shimmered in Adelaide’s eyes as she touched his hand and signed, It’s perfect. Just like you.
He smiled, his fingers brushing over hers as he signed back, No, my love. Just like us.
The children’s laughter bubbled up once more, filling the space with life and joy. As the evening settled over Carenwood, Adelaide leaned her head against Alexander’s shoulder. The world outside continued to change, but here, in their home filled with family, art, and love, they had built something enduring.
The sound of Emily’s laughter echoed in the distance, a reminder of the legacy they had begun and the future that awaited them—bright, full of promise, and overflowing with love.
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My dearest readers, I hope you enjoyed both the story and the Extended Epilogue, where our characters’ journeys continue to unfold. I’d love to hear your thoughts and reflections—your comments are always a delight to read! Thank you 😊
My favorite part was when Adelaide signed for Alexander at the poetry reading. Many people don’t think about ways to include those with disabilities. Another person really saw him and knew what he needed to be included in the event. I love that you wrote about the main characters having disabilities. In the Regency days I’m sure disabilities were hard for the ton to understand and include in their Society.
I’m so glad you appreciated that moment with Adelaide and Alexander, Stephanie! It’s so important to show inclusion, especially in historical settings where disabilities were often overlooked. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.🥰
What a great story about how two disabled people made a perfect couple.
Thank you for your lovely feedback, Ms Terry! Your thoughts mean a lot!✨
I enjoyed this touching love story, and how two people seemingly out-of-touch with “the outside world” connect and bond within in spite of this.
I was hoping for more development of Adeline’s backstory. I did like the emotional insight and expression of their doubts and insecurity; I think any reader could identify with that.
I’m glad you enjoyed the story and connected with the characters, Shannon! I truly appreciate your thoughts on Adeline’s backstory and will keep that in mind for future books.
Wow! I couldn’t put this down once I got about three-fourths of the way through. It was exciting and engaging. The resolution did not disappoint. Can’t wait for the sequel!
Thank you so much Julie! I’m so glad you enjoyed the story and the resolution!
A great story, awake half the night listening to it.
I’m glad the story kept you engaged, even through the night Carol! It’s always wonderful to hear that it made such an impact.
1/21/2025
This book has been a wonderful read and a beautiful story. Thank you for taking us on such a journey!
I really appreciate your kind feedback! I’m so glad you found the book enjoyable and meaningful, Kathy!