When I first began writing Mina and Aaron, I didn't plan for their story to end here—at peace, yet still a little broken, still learning how to love without destroying what they touched. They started as fire and shadow, and somewhere between pain, forgiveness, and laughter, they became something real.
This story was never just about romance; it was about healing. About two imperfect people who carried every scar back home and still dared to choose each other. They didn't become perfect—they became honest.
Mina's strength came from every woman who's had to rebuild herself from ashes. Aaron's growth came from every man who's had to learn that love isn't ownership, it's surrender. Ellie became the proof that even in a world full of chaos, innocence and joy can still bloom.
If you stayed with them through the violence, the tenderness, the laughter, and the tears—thank you. You gave them their ending. You gave them peace.
And if you ever find yourself standing in the ruins of something you once loved, remember this:
You can still build again.
You can still be loved, even after you've been broken.
From my heart to yours—thank you for believing in their story.
Thank you for believing in love that survives.
—_McKenzie_ 💎