Page 126 of Closer than Ever

Anna stared at the gleaming rock on her finger. “It’s huge.”

“It’s a sapphire. Sapphic. Like us.”

“It’s perfect.”

Hayley’s fingers brushed Anna’s as she held her hand. A rush of warmth spread through Anna’s entire heart.

“How does it feel?” Hayley said.

Anna spread her fingers. “Perfect. It fits perfectly as well.”

“I’m so glad.”

Anna leant into Hayley for an unrushed hug, which Hayley reciprocated. Everything in Anna’s life had led to this moment – the good times, the bad times and everything in between. It was inevitable. She nuzzled into Hayley’s shoulder, savouring the feel of her body against hers and the nature all around them, and inhaled the feeling of everything that was peaceful and true. “This feels so right.”

Hayley held her close and caressed the back of her head. “I never want to let go.”

“Neither do I.”

After some time, they came out of the embrace and started walking back to the car.

“Oh wait,” Hayley said.

“What?”

“We should get a photo.”

“God, yes. I can’t believe we nearly forgot.”

They stood close and got the loch in the background. Hayley took a ton of pictures with her arm outstretched and them standing close. Anna kissed the side of Hayley’s face and then they gave up on the photo session. The kisses turned into a deep and passionate kiss that sent Hayley’s hands into Anna’s hair and Anna’s hands to caress Hayley’s back.

“Are you really going to be my wife?” Hayley asked, pulling apart to look into Anna’s eyes.

“There’s nothing I want more.”

“I can’t wait to introduce you to everyone back home.”

Anna took Hayley’s hand. “I would love to meet your family and friends. I can’t wait to go to America and explore your life there. Oh my god I’m so excited about it. About everything!”

Hayley smiled so wide her whole face lit up. “It’s going to be great.”

“It’s a crime I haven’t been already. I hope they like me.”

“They’ll love you! You’re an amazing woman, Anna. Such a beautiful and kind and sweet person. I love you so much! Nothing would make me prouder than bringing you home after our adventure. But that’s all in good time. Getting to this moment with you means the world to me. I hope you know that.” Hayley tucked a wayward strand of hair behind Anna’s ear and looked into Anna’s eyes.

“I do.”

“Hey now. Let’s wait for the wedding first before saying that.”

Anna laughed. A life with Hayley was going to be full of joy and laughter and fun. But most importantly, it was going to be full of love. Which was exactly what she wanted.

Epilogue

Anna tapped her thumbs against her safety harness. She could hardly hear herself think let alone try not to have a nervous breakdown. Her heart thundered. Her stomach felt like it was in her chest. The ridiculous full body suits, helmet and glasses weren’t helping. Across from her and Hayley on the small plane, the guides in the business of throwing people out of flying aeroplanes in the name of a so-called exciting sport hovered by the door which threatened to open at some point. Anna pressed her back into her seat in an attempt to get as far away from them as possible.

Hayley sat beside her the epitome of cool, calm, and collected. “How are you feeling, my love?”

She shot her a furious glare. “When I said that I would not be doing a bungee jump that did not mean I would be happy to do a skydive.”

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