twenty-three years later.

a peaceful smile spread across my face as i thought about the way eliza and him looked at one another as they exchanged vows at the altar.

their love reminded me of a feeling i had experienced once, and a mixture of pride and happiness surged through me when i saw them dance together, and i knew he could feel it too.

the wedding was nothing short of perfect.

at the end of it i held eliza's hand in mine.

'ready?' i asked her.

'yes.' she nodded.

we walked out behind the church and followed the familiar pathway to his grave.

on it, it read;

mattia polibio

beloved by all around him

the cause behind the polibio law

2003 - 2021

we laid our flowers on the earthy surface, and i pictured how he would smile as he heard her beautiful, matured voice, and i knew he would be listening.

'i couldn't be prouder to call you my dad, i am so grateful for everything you did, without you and mom and aunt nat, i wouldn't have him,' she glanced over at her groom in the distance, 'so thank you - both of you - i just wish we could've had more time together.'

i wiped the stray tear that streamed down her cheek.

'he'll always love you.' i spoke truthfully, reminiscing on the last sentences he had spoken to me.

she embraced me in a long hug, trying her best to suppress her sadness.

through the corner of my eye i stared at the head stone.

i love you. i mouthed.