I didn't tell him to leave that night even though every bone in my body told me to, but I don't regret it. Not even a little.

Matthew finalized the divorce, and we moved into our own house. A house that is perfect just for us. Matthew even got a little handy and built the fire place himself, and it looks great. I thought I was happy before, but now I know this is what true happiness is and I'm sharing it with the love of my life. Matthew is nothing but, kind, loving, caring understanding, and gentle. I've never been treated so great.

I pull into my garage and gather all my belongings to go inside. I set my keys down onto a small dish before I remove my heels. Christ, that feels better.I pick up my heels and take them upstairs with me. I look around downstairs for Matthew, but he's nowhere to be found. He might've passed out after his shower, which happens quite a lot. I peek into his office to see him sitting in his chair. I crack it open a little more to reveal him with his glasses on the brim of his nose, a sewing needle between his lips, and he's putting stuffing into what looks like an octopus. I also notice he's wearing his favorite kimono. I crack a smile at him.

I shift my weight and the floor creaks beneath me. I watch as he jumps, and quickly takes the needle out. When he sees me, he flashes me a relieved smile.

"How was work?" He asks as he spins around in his chair to face me. I look to see his familiar mix matched socks.

I shrug my shoulders, "It was decent. We're testing out a formula for a gel glitter." I set my heels down before I walk towards him and sit on his lap. Matthew's arm immediately envelopes me.

I reach over to touch one of the tentacles of the octopus, "Is this gonna be a new book character?" I ask him.

Matthew has recently come out with a children's book involving a green monster named Rumple. Every time I see the impact the book has made, I feel so proud of him.

"I don't know yet. I think I just like the vibe of him." He purses his lips in thought and stares down at the stuffed red sea creature.

"I might name him after you. If I decide to write another book." He smirks. I raise my eyebrows at him.

"Am I an octopus to you?" I ask and he thinks for a little bit.

"Maybe I'll make a Halloween book, and you can be a cute little spider." He tells me before kissing me on my cheek. I laugh before I lean over to kiss him on the lips.

"Hey, do you wanna finish this up while I go make some dinner?" I ask and he nods his head.

"Actually, I'll help you. I'll be down in a bit." I watch his body get tense, and I just brush it off. Matthew tends to get fidgety sometimes.

I feel a familiar pair of arms wrap around me as I cook. Matthew brushes the hair away from my neck and he gently kisses it. I lean against him, and his arms squeeze me tighter.

"I love you." He whispers.

A smile crosses my face, "I love you."

We're quiet again, and I keep cooking our dinner. His arms stay around me, and he's watching from over my shoulder. This has become a nightly routine for us. We sometimes take turns cooking or we're too lazy and just order take out. It feels like every piece of the puzzle has perfectly fallen into place.

"Marry me."

I stop cooking and turn around to face him. Matthew takes my face in his hands, and gently places a kiss on my forehead.

"Marry me, Lydia." He says again. I can feel the tears brim my eyes. This can't be real. It feels surreal.

I kiss him passionately, and I feel him smile against my lips.

"I take that as a yes." He laughs, and I nod my head before kissing him again.

This is perfect. Everything is perfect. This is my happy ending.

~

AHHH thank you guys again for liking this book and reading it!! i appreciate it so much y'all have no idea! sadly, this is the end of illicit affairs, but i have another mgg book coming soon. i love you all so much. stay safe my friends.