Page 35 of Liberating Lena

“To Lena, who arrived quietly, and is leaving out loud. And to Ethan, who somehow talks less than she does now.” Everyone laughed.

I blushed but clink my glass against Ethan’s and then Derek’s. Everyone broke off into little groups and mingled like they had the first day, but Carrie was missing. Then she was bursting through the front door, Andy on her heels.

Sadie was beside Derek, both wearing huge smiles. “Friends are forged through camaraderie and necessity. Carrie wanted to be here for you, Lena,” Sadie said.

I rushed forward, tears in my eyes. “Oh my god, what are you doing here? This is crazy, amazing!” I threw myself into her arms. She hugged me back.

“It didn’t feel right not being here when you left. I assume everything you and Ethan needed to discuss has worked out?” She pulled back, a twinkle of knowing in her eye.

“Oh yeah it has.”

“If I could have your attention,” Derek, called out. All conversation instantly ceased with his command. Then he looked at Ethan. “The floor is yours.”

I was confused. Why did Ethan want the floor?

Carried released me and stood beside Andy, practically vibrating.

“Wait, what’s going on?” Ethan stepped forward and kneeled in front of me.

“Lena Hart, in a very short time, you have become my sun, moon and stars, my everything, the air I breathe, and my reason for living.”

Ethan opened a box to reveal a beautiful infinity-knot engagement ring. “Lena, would you do me the honor of being my everything for the rest of our lives?”

Sadie and Carrie squealed almost in unison, causing a few chuckles and providing me with a second to find my voice.

“Ethan, when I first met you. I was trapped inside, and you set me free and shared every part of yourself when I was ready to receive each one. I was afraid of my feelings, afraid to let go, but then you woke me up inside.”

A few sniffles were heard from those surrounding us. “I was afraid of what I wanted most, to relinquish control. But you built trust with me and gave me space to be and for that I will be forever grateful to this place for bringing us together. Yes, there is nothing more in the world I want than to be youreverything.”

Ethan took the ring from the box and slid it onto my finger. The room erupted in cheers, and we were caught up in hugs of congratulations.

“To Ethan and Lena, and their new chapter.” Derek held his lemonade up and the rest of us followed suit. An hour later and we were finally ready to go. Ethan and Derek clasped hands.

“We may have to come back next summer,” Ethan said.

“I wanted to talk to you two about that,” Derek said. Sadie sidled up beside her husband, with Andy and Carrie. “Sadie and I wanted to invite you two couples to return here next summer as part of a mentorship program. It went so well for the submissives program, but we really need to combine them. Both you couples epitomize the Ranch and what it has to offer. We would be honored if you would join us.”

Carrie and I were practically bouncing. We were so excited. “Where Carrie goes, I go,” Andy answered with a smirk. “So, if this is what she wants, we’ll be here.”

“Ditto,” Ethan added. “Lena? Is this something you would like to do? I think you would be an amazing mentor.”

“Yes!” Carrie and I shouted together, causing the rest of our group to laugh.

“You have your answer, Mr. and Mrs. Hawkins. Thank you for the invitation and we’ll look forward to seeing you next year.”

We took our leave with Carrie and Andy. The men shook hands. “Lunch in a week or so?” Andy asked.

“That sounds like a plan.”

Carrie and I hugged. “I’m so excited we’ll be neighbors.”

“Me too,” I answered. “See you in a week.”

They got in their vehicle and waved as they pulled out onto the driveway.

“Are you ready?” Ethan asked.

“To go home with you? Yes, I guess I’ll have to figure out my stuff situation and let my apartment manager know I won’t be back.”

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