Chapter 13 Epilogue

Michael's return was far from simple. He didn't like to talk about it much, brushing off the details as if they didn't matter.

The only explanation he gave me was this:

"So, it all came down to the account I gave you?" I asked one day, curious.

He nodded, gently twirling a strand of my hair between his fingers. "Exactly."

"The mystery men's trap was in the wording," he explained. "He told us an account could solve the problem, but he never said it had to be willingly given by the owner.

"Buying, stealing, or forcing it wouldn't work. It had to come freely, from the heart."

He leaned down and kissed my forehead, his voice warm and teasing. "Our Betty is so clever-figuring out the mystery men's trick without even realizing it."

I blushed, my cheeks burning.

Ever since Michael came back, he'd been showering me with compliments over the smallest things.

Even the most mundane actions didn't escape his praise.

"Wow, you're so amazing, baby! You went to the bathroom all by yourself!"

I groaned, burying my face in my hands. "Michael, stop!"

But then, a question tugged at my heart.

"And Coco? What about the others?" I asked quietly, curled up in his arms.

Michael stroked my hair gently. "They're doing fine. They can't come to the real world, but if you ever want to see them, I can help you connect with them."

I nodded, comforted by the thought. "Okay."

Michael's gaze softened as he looked at me. His eyes filled with so much warmth it made my chest ache.

"Betty," he murmured, "do you think we'll be happy? Together, for the rest of our lives?"

I reached out and took his hand, squeezing it tightly.

"Of course," I said, smiling. "We'll be happy forever."