Author’s Note: This story is an expansion of one of my altered episodes “Promises of Journey” from the April 2025 CABB Challenge.

* * * * *

Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress.
Working together is success.

 ~ Henry Ford

A few candles crackled timidly on the wooden table; souvenirs collected over the years cast various shadows on the rock walls, and a veil of melancholy hung in the air.

Another page of Bronte’s story was carelessly turned, and the words he read did not stick in his memory. His mind and heart were warmed by memories of her petite body, her breasts brushing against his chest and stomach, her hands running through his hair…

Vincent reached the heights of self-torment by reminiscing about their time together, instead of focusing on the weekend they had ahead of them Below. Lost in thought, he stared into space, pushing away visions of a lonely night in a bed that now seemed too big. Perhaps we will manage to steal more time during the day, although the night is always wonderful, engraved in our hearts as if it were the first, and that moment when I let myself be carried away and engulfed by the waves. He felt a tingling sensation all over his skin, and all the blood drained from his head and gathered lower…

Suddenly, a canvas bag appeared at his feet, knocking him brutally from the cloud on which he had begun to float. His gaze wandered toward the entrance, revealing a mocking smirk and narrowed eyes, as if scrutinizing his recent thoughts.

Crossing his legs was a way to escape the heart-pounding effects of his memories. A few breaths later, his mind cleared. “Devin?!”

The visitor nonchalantly kept his hands in the pockets of his worn jeans. “Have I come at the wrong time?” His eyes narrowed, revealing a glimmer of suspicion.

The mockery passed him by, and his gaze focused on the book he was holding. Throw it between those derisive eyes? His lips trembled with a restrained smile. I am never alone here; I allowed myself to soar in the skies and here you are…

His older brother watched his furrowed brow. “It’s good that you respect literature, because otherwise I feel like I would have a close encounter with the cover of The Professor.”

They laughed simultaneously, naturally, in understanding.

He cautiously put the book down and greeted him properly. “Good to see you.”

Their embrace was warm, as if they hadn’t seen each other for years, even though it had only been a month since his sudden leave. A deep-rooted fear that he would not return again lurked in his heart. “Did the trip help with your confusion?”

There was a moment of silence, heavy with meaning…

“My head is a little clearer, but I don’t want to talk about it now.” He nervously ran his fingers through his hair, looking around the room at the pile of books on the table and several scattered on the unmade bed. Escaping from his personal issues was the best option for him. “Without your woman today?”

A hard, longing “Yes” filled the space between them.

He clapped his hands at this answer and threw himself onto the rumpled bed. “Let’s have a guys’ night out.”

This unexpected suggestion left him speechless for a moment; his brows arched, eyes widened. “I’m afraid to ask what’s behind it.”

“Several beers and conversation until we drop from exhaustion.”

“What a festival of creativity!” He slumped back into his chair.

“Oh, I see that quiet thoughtfulness on your face. You need fun!”

He tilted his head back. “I’m used to evenings and nights with Catherine.”

His brother winked. “I guess so. How long will she be gone?”

“Two days, and she’ll spend the weekend Below.” His hand wiped invisible dust from the table.

Something strange hung in the air, some unspoken need.

He frowned, watching his behavior from the bed. You are close, but somehow distant. In the blink of an eye, he rose from his comfortable position and approached the pensive figure. “Man, it’s not that long, you’ll have two days together and hot nights!”

Such great enthusiasm brought a slight smile to the longing face. “I know.” He sighed at the senselessness of his feelings.

In vain, he tried to understand his brother’s enigmatic mood. He sensed some smoldering bitterness. “Do you have any privacy to spend the whole day together?”

His younger brother almost rolled his eyes. “We will certainly have nights and sometimes evenings, but can I want anything more?” He spread his hands helplessly. “I have her, closer than I ever dreamed, I can’t even complain that I would like more time just the two of us …or changes in the environment.” The last words were barely a whisper.

And here you are. “I think you have the right to want to spend more time alone with her.” He rubbed his chin with his hand. His heart was filled with a premonition, a sudden, dazzling certainty. “I have an idea, but it requires a plan and cooperation to implement it.”

He blinked several times, recalling his brother’s crazy ideas. An ocean of images appeared before his eyes. He remembered every “no” from Father when he wanted to fulfill one of his dreams; that word was sadness enclosed in letters... and then I was left with a feeling of emptiness. He rubbed his tired eyes. “It’s better not to do anything. I don’t want Father to have a heart attack.” Or maybe I don’t want to burden my heart.

A desire to act welled up in the traveler’s heart as he looked at the man’s gloomy face and distant gaze. To give you something that would fill the void I left behind many years ago, for all those unfulfilled promises – one beautiful journey.

After a moment, he placed his hand on his brother’s broad shoulder, squeezing it in a supportive, reassuring gesture. “Cooperation and planning are meant to dispel the fear that the old man will die when he hears what I have to say to him.”

These words made him feel a creeping sense of hope beneath his skin. He rose from his chair and looked him seriously in the eyes. “Tell me.”

“You can go with Catherine to my cottage. I’ll drive you there and back; everything you need is there, even a second car in case of trouble – although I don’t foresee any in this quiet little corner. I’ll be nearby at a friend’s house.”

His brows furrowed, creating a few wrinkles on his forehead. “But that’s an eight- hour drive!”

“No! I don’t live there anymore. I rented a cottage closer to New York so I could have a place to relax near home.” He winked playfully.

The bubble he now found himself in added even more color to his life; inside it, he felt that everything could work out. He could already hear the sound of water, the scent of nature filled his nostrils, and his eyes feasted on the sun’s rays.  “Tell me more about this place.”

Hearing those words, he couldn’t help but smile broadly. “Starlight, Pennsylvania. It’s about a two-hour drive from here, so if we leave on Friday late evening, you’ll be there before midnight.”

He leaned his back against the rock wall; his eyes were closed. Hope; I let it return to my heart, take root, and grow. Deep breaths lifted his chest.

His older brother felt an inner motivation as he observed his concentrated face,  tightly clenched lips, tense jaw. “I have a van. You will feel comfortable.”

With Devin by my side, perhaps…? With his eyes still closed, he remained far away, deep in this extraordinary state of mind. “Keep talking.”

“The house has two bedrooms. It is surrounded by forest, close to the Delaware River. It’s a private place. You’ll really be able to stay there, just the two of you, totally safe.”

That description and the image it conjured up stirred such strong emotions in him that for a moment he couldn’t make any move. His gaze was misty and dreamy. “Do you know how much I would like to be there, even for a moment?”

“I do.” He bit his trembling lip. “We have to discuss this with Father. You have the right to make your own decisions.”

His brother’s laugh was brief and bitter. He peeled himself away from the wall and began his familiar pacing around the chamber. “Yes, but I have to keep the tunnels safe!”

“I’ll take care of your safety!” He stared at him with a confident and serious expression, waiting for his definitive word.

Those words radiated a sense of responsibility and maturity; they spoke to his weary heart. He rubbed his face vigorously, shook himself off before deciding… Suppressed emotions hung in the air: his longing for this place and all the wonders associated with it; and over all of this lay bitterness and regret if this plan were to fail.

Thoughts in his head flashed like lightning. I’m so afraid of disappointment, and yet I dare to take the risk. Is this selfishness on my part or madness? He calmed himself by taking deep breaths before uttering the decisive words. “We should try.”

Hearing those words made him feel his lungs returning to their normal rhythm. “Great” His older brother patted him cheerfully on the back. “Let’s go to the library. We’ll cut to the chase and tell him what the plan is.”

“And now here’s the tricky part. Although it sounds simple, talking to him will be like a clash of two fronts.”

Their laughter rang out at the same time, but it did nothing to ease the tense atmosphere, give them courage, relax their muscles, or calm their racing hearts.

“The old man has a completely different approach to certain matters, and that’s exactly why conflicts arise.” The corners of his mouth curled into something resembling a smile. “We can’t avoid the tornado, but we’ll convince him and the refreshing sun will rise.”

He nodded, wanting to believe it would work out, but his knees felt weak at the thought of walking to the Library. “I hope you’re right.”

* * *

After a silent walk, they stopped at their destination; they spotted gray hair amidst a tower of books and rolled-up maps. The rustling of pages showed that he was absorbed in some work.

There was no turning back now. Aware of their goal and determined, they had no choice but to press on, gritting their teeth, and crossed the threshold…

Devin bounded down the stairs with a broad smile on his face. He crashed to the ground next to the desk, sending a cloud of dust swirling around.

A stooped figure startled, suddenly torn away from reviewing his notes.

“Good morning, Dad!”

The community leader widened his eyes. “Devin?! What a charming way to surprise me.”

His son patted him on the shoulder. “I like to surprise people.”

Father snorted. “You certainly do.” He set the documents down next to the maps and books, creating an even bigger artistic mess. “Good to see you. How was your trip?”

“Informative.”

The older man squinted. “You’re not very talkative.”

He shrugged just like he used to when he was a teenager. “Now, I don’t want to talk about myself.”

Although it didn’t sound very polite, Vincent was the most important thing right now. He glanced at his companion who was slowly making his way down the stairs, cautious, silent, fearful, yet hopeful for some kind of change.

Their parent looked from one son to the other, sensing something he might not entirely approve of. The candles flickered, and the sounds of messages being transmitted through the pipes should have drowned out this tense moment, yet a heavy silence settled over them like a thick evening fog.

He shifted in his chair, which had suddenly become uncomfortable. “Come on, tell me what happened.”

Devin began absentmindedly flipping through the book lying on the table. It was supposed to be simple and to the point. “I invited Catherine and Vincent to my cabin in Starlight. They could leave on Friday evening and I would bring them back on Sunday night.” One, two, three…

And then the storm began.

For a long moment, rapid breathing could be heard, followed by a snort, the scraping of a chair, the slamming of a book on the table, and then it was time to start throwing thunderbolts. “Have you two lost your minds? Do you know how dangerous this is? Do I have to repeat myself?” Icy sparks flew from his eyes.

His older son took a step toward the bundle of nerves. “We know the risks, that’s why we’ll organize everything so that nothing happens. It’s a short distance. I have a van, and I’ll be there with them nearby. The area is wooded, private.”

“Privacy, they have that here too. There are distant chambers, Vincent has his private rooms.” He kept hurling thunderbolts.

To that explanation, Devin’s hands began to tremble with irritation; he took a deep breath. An unshakable rock amidst stormy waves. “But couldn’t he step outside those walls, breathe in the fresh morning air, look up at the blue sky, and feel the sun on his face?” The questions were hissed through clenched teeth.

Father shot him a stern look from beneath his furrowed brows. “I would like that for him, too, but the risk is too great.”

This exchange of arguments moved at a rapid pace; the wave of disappointment was suffocating. Vincent sank heavily into a nearby chair, watching the scene unfold and longing for this battle with windmills to end. The words weighed on him like stones, dragging him down. I know this melody and this tone all too well. Can this eternal resistance be suppressed? A malicious little voice in his head tried to make him feel even more miserable. Everything around is collapsing, falling apart into rubble. Sentences deliver successive blows.

His defender tried to break through the wall his parent had erected. His tight-lipped mouth and tense body suggested that an avalanche of harsh words was about to erupt at any moment.

Before the situation escalated, Peter appeared in the entrance of the library, drawn by the sounds of an argument; his gaze was scattered. “Jacob, what madness has come over you?!”

And once again, an agitated figure began to snort and hiss, waving his arms. “Madness? I’m just reacting to my sons’ revelations.”

He calmly approached his friend and placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. “First, sit and take a deep breath.” He watched as he complied with his request, pressing his lips tightly together. “Now tell me what two grown men said that made me consider giving you a sedative injection?”

The two younger men smiled to themselves, sensing the doctor’s favor.

“Imagine that Vincent is going to Devin’s cabin for the weekend.”

He raised his eyebrows high, defiantly. “Alone?”

Father gave him an indignant look. “With Catherine! Devin will give them a ride.” He rubbed his eyes. “They will be alone in the woods!” His voice echoed throughout the library.

His friend looked at him with sympathy. “Jacob, are you listening to yourself? He’s a grown man. He’s responsible, sensible, and Devin won’t put him in danger. I think that since he suggested it, he’s thought it through. And together, we can help make one of your son’s dreams come true.”

It seemed, however, that the words bounced off Father’s ears like a ball off a wall. He began wandering back and forth between the shelves, bumping into individual books. “Have there always been so many books here?” he muttered under his breath.

Three people close to him were caught up in a heated exchange of words and emotions. Once again,Vincent felt as if the world around him was shrinking. I should do something, speak my mind, show what’s going on inside me. He shook his head; but nothing was getting any easier. Risk, irresponsibility. The words swirled around in his head, wreaking havoc; he tried to pull himself together. I should be used to constantly being brought back down to earth for trying to fulfill my dreams, but a hurricane is raging through my head. How could I have been so naive as to believe again?

He stood up abruptly, scraping the chair sharply. “Enough!” He was attracting everyone’s attention. “I can’t listen to this anymore…” he almost growled and simply left so quickly that no one had time to react.

An awkward silence fell, enveloping them like a cocoon – heavy, unpleasant, and memorable.

“Are you pleased with yourself, Dad?” This question pierced sharply through the stillness.

Before an answer could be uttered, Mary appeared with a tray with a teapot. The aroma of the brew wafted between the conversation partners, and in that silence, the tension only grew.

Her smile was timid. “Have some herbal tea. It will do you all good.”

The culprit just nodded, his face was still red. “Thank you, Mary, you are always so thoughtful.”

Her cheeks flushed slightly. “I heard the sounds of conversation. I thought this would be the least I could do to help.”

Father bit his lip and sat heavily in his chair and rested his head in his hands, the splitting pain pulsing unpleasantly in his temples. “Did I have any choice?”

“I think you did.” The young man spat out the words.

Father shook his head at this comment. “That’s ridiculous!”

Meanwhile, his close friend joined him at the table. For a moment, they locked eyes, battling emotions.

“Do you also think I’m wrong to protect him?”

He cleared his throat briefly. “I’m sorry to say so, but yes.”

In amazement, his jaw dropped. His sigh was hard, indicating stubbornness. “I can’t believe I’m hearing this.”

“Jacob, listen… He’s a grown man, trapped here, and we all want to protect him and do something special for him, for them. They deserve this trip, this small escape.”

Hearing his friend’s words, he was boiling inside. “I want that for them, too!”

His son burst out in a short, mocking laugh and shook his head. “Really? You just proved it a moment ago.”

Another sigh echoed off the library walls; this time, it had a favourable tone. “It’s not easy when we’re risking so much.”

The closest friend leaned toward him. “He will travel with two people who would give their lives for him. They’ll take care of his safety.”

He absorbed this information for a moment, then finally stood up, waving his arms. “If something happens, we are all in danger.” His deep-seated fear remained strong and prevented him from thinking with clarity.

The doctor took off his jacket, feeling waves of heat after the stormy conversation. “But why do you assume that something will happen? Can’t we assume for once that it will work out?”

Father rubbed his chin and frowned as he analyzed the situation, pacing between the bookshelves.

In the tense silence, they watched his every move closely, praying that their powers of persuasion would work. The atmosphere grew thick, and their hearts pounded as they awaited the verdict.

At that moment, the curtain of resistance began to fall. He cleared his throat and turned to his son with concern in his eyes. “Tell me what it would be like?”

The words gave him hope and he almost jumped for joy. He told him again about the night journey, the distance, the van, and finally about the cottage itself, surrounded by forest, safety, and complete privacy.

Father listened attentively, familiarizing himself with the situation; deep down, he dreamed of the same thing for his son, but fear always stood in the way. At that moment, he prayed silently that everything would turn out well, without any unpleasant surprises. A light smile added charm to his tired face; he rubbed his eyes with his hand. “I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I agree. I know that both of them will gain more from this trip if I say yes.”

A wave of relief and tranquility washed over them after the emotionally draining conversation.

His best friend patted him on the back, proudly. “A generous decision.”

His son hugged him. “Thank you. You gave them a lot.”

“And let’s hope I’m doing the right thing.” He felt a sense of lightness inside, overflowing with happiness, without any nagging pangs of guilt.

They heard footsteps approaching, and after a moment, along with a gentle woman’s voice. “Did I hear that right?” She entered carrying another teapot filled with soothing tea. “Vincent and Catherine are going on a little trip?”

She looked at them, knowing the answer written all over their joyous faces and gleaming eyes.

“They will.” Peter took the tray from her hands and placed it on the table. “Until they return, this tea will be needed to calm my friend’s nerves every day.”

The mentioned figure snorted as if indignant. “I had to admit that without strong herbs, I would not find peace.”

“I’ll make it for you every day, even three times a day. Your blessing will make their trip more enjoyable.” She placed her hand on her heart. “They’ll be better off here, inside.”

His eyes welled up. “Thank you, Mary.”

“And I’ll keep you company for those days.” He felt the hands of his closest friend on his arm.

The younger man knelt down beside him and squeezed his hand. “And I’ll do everything I can to keep them safe.”

The feeling that he had made the right decision calmed his racing heart. One thing still bothered him; the time had come to make amends and deliver the good news. With a quiet sigh, Jacob stood up and, leaning on his cane, set off in the familiar direction.  It can be hard to admit one’s mistakes.

* * *

Lost in thought, detached, he lay on the bed, having extinguished the candles earlier so that darkness, his eternal friend, would surround him…but fate knocks on the door in different ways. This time it did so by surprise, dispelling the oppressive fog when everything around seemed monotonous and gray. In the entrance a silhouette appeared, the one who was extremely important to him, who raised him, supported him, but also sometimes hurt. Harmful words pierce the heart like thorns and take root there.

He heard him take a breath and slowly move closer to the bed. “May I?”

“Please, are you going to lecture me about responsibility now?” His eyes were focused on Kristopher’s painting.

The older man gasped. “No, I came to apologize.”

He frowned and put his hands behind his head, curious to hear the rest.

“I should have given you the right to decide about your life a long time ago. I interfered when you met Catherine. I did the same when you wanted to explore the world, even at night. Although I don’t like the idea of you leaving, you will have the support of people who protect you more than their own lives. I don’t want to interrupt you when you have the chance to see more of the world Above.”

For a moment, he was at a loss for words – was this some trick of my mind, or had I fallen asleep? He sat up abruptly, still speechless by the impression. Father was still there, and his approval began to sink in. “So you agree?” His smile was radiant, reaching his eyes, illuminating the darkness of the chamber. He squeezed his parent’s hand. “I never thought I’d hear those words from you.”

The older man touched his tousled hair with his hand and stroked it as if he were a little boy. “I believe it will work, but I can’t believe I’m saying this.”

They both laughed briefly. Something has changed in this hour; there are now two more people in the world who will make their dream come true.

A delightful turmoil took hold of Vincent’s mind; a euphoria too great for his heart to contain spread through his chest, creating a pleasant warmth, and he felt like shouting out his happiness at the top of his lungs.

His parent watched him with teary eyes as he paced around the room, stopping, sighing, touching things on the dresser. Confused, excited.

Suddenly, he turned toward him with a sparkle in his eyes. “I have to tell Catherine…” and then he was gone, leaving behind a gust of wind; a trace of recent gloom and bitterness scattered in the air…

Father shook his head. He had no choice but to return to his chamber, have a cup of tea or more, and get some sleep after that emotional whirlwind.

* * *

The balcony door was open, the curtain fluttering lazily in the breeze. From his perspective, the world seemed somehow different; it was more beautiful.

The light was lit, his love sat there, still in her going-out clothes; a white blouse revealed a sliver of skin below her neck, and a fitted skirt showed off her shapely legs. My whole life; busy, focused. He wouldn’t have dared to interrupt her, but the circumstances were exceptional. With a soft knock, he announced his arrival.

When she turned toward the sound, he was already standing in the doorway. Her welcome kiss sent him soaring through the skies.

After several exchanges of breaths and hurried touches, he sensed her unease. She pulled away, furrowing her brow. “Something wrong? We were supposed to meet on Friday evening.”

His hands caressed her back. “There’s nothing wrong, but I need to share something with you.”

She clenched her hands on his vest.  “Tell me.”

“Devin suggested a trip to his cabin in Starlight, and after some heated discussion, Father agreed to let us go, and we’re leaving on Friday night.”

The world stood still; her mouth was slightly open, her eyes following his entire face, as if he were about to say that it was some kind of joke. A slow kiss snapped her out of her trance. She blinked her eyes wearily. “Did Father agree? This is some kind of dream. It’s not really happening!”

“I know, I know, I was in the same state when he told me. We have no choice but to pack a few things and go there.” His wide smile revealed a row of teeth, and the way she could sense the immense happiness waiting to burst forth sent a thrill of excitement through her.

She covered her parted lips with her hand. It is true! Suddenly she jumped up with a squeal and threw herself into his arms. He lifted her high and held her strongly, listening to her laughter. They spun around together, body to body, their breathing quickening in this dance.

All that twisting made her head spin. “You mentioned a heated discussion. So he didn’t agree right away?”

Her question near his ear made him stop. His expression changed that reached only his eyes; they grew sad at the memory of something, and his smile softened. “Devin and Peter helped convince him. He came to me later with an apology and his approval.”

She stroked his cheek gently. “Do you want to talk about it?”

In her eyes he saw love – every glimmer of it. He shook his head, still holding her close. “My happiness knows no bounds right now, that’s what matters most. Let’s not go back to that gloomy hour.”

Something incredible was growing between them. They gazed intently into each other’s eyes; his hands slid below her waist. It was a sudden moment, full of desire, an impulse that was hard to resist.

He tensed up, his heart pounding in his chest. I feel like I’m on fire. A tingling sensation ran through every part of his body. She touches my neck, chest. Her scent is intoxicating and I melt away in this caress.

They collapsed onto the couch. Starved, insatiable, they nourished themselves with lustful kisses, full of promises and assurances. In the heat of the excitement, their touch was impatient.

Her hand unzipped his pants, and he lifted her skirt. He slid his hand along her leg, pausing at her thigh and squeezing it tightly. Sweet sounds of pleasure drove him to the brink.

Everything around her was blurry; with every movement her lower abdomen contracted and then suddenly relaxed. She started trembling and pulled him closer. We look into each other’s eyes, in a feverish rhythm, my hands move restlessly across his back; we exchange a few more heartbeats, catch our breath, and then I call out his name; he cups my cheek in his hand, sighs more deeply into my mouth, and joins me, savoring the moment…

The noise from the street reached his ears, drowning out the ticking of the clock. He felt a soothing stroke on his head. He opened his eyes and blinked a few times before he saw his beloved’s smiling face. His mind flashed with images of the passion they had shared, and then that incredible bliss.

“I guess you were really tired.” Her voice reached every fiber of his being.

“I didn’t even know how… I’m sorry. You have a lot of work, and I…” He lowered his gaze to their joined bodies, still blushing, and began to sit up.

“You’re not apologizing to me for love, are you?” She traced the outline of his lips and he kissed her fingers.

“No, just for taking up your time.”

“I needed a break, and I could use one more often.” Her gaze was trusting and tender.

His lips brushed against her thigh. “I’m willing to help. Just think of me and I’ll come to you.” He was already buttoning his pants and knelt down by the sofa. With a sigh, he slowly pulled her skirt down. It is hard to part with you.

“In two days, come Below with your luggage;.Devin will take care of transportation, and William will provide food.” He leaned down and pressed his forehead against hers. “I’ll miss you, even though it’s only two days.”

“And I’ll miss you, too.”

His cloak was lying by the balcony door; he threw it on and glanced back at her one last time. Absolutely perfect. “Until Friday.”  He vanished into the darkness, leaving behind its taste and a sense of inner peace and fulfillment.

It got colder without him and somehow empty; she wrapped her arms around herself. We have a trip ahead of us, a real trip. Her gaze drifted to the documents. I’m properly motivated. She smiled slightly and with renewed energy threw herself into her work.

* * *

The long-awaited evening had finally arrived, and their closest friends and family gathered to say goodbye. There was no end to the hugs and well-wishes for a good time and the freedom to enjoy themselves to their heart’s content.

William had prepared the food supplies: fresh soup, vegetable stew, and packed basic groceries so they wouldn’t have to stop at a store.

Peter was lurking with sleeping pills in case his friend suddenly flew into a fury. The doctor glanced at him suspiciously through narrowed eyes.

Father, filled with a pot of soothing tea, yawned and rubbed his eyes, needing some time alone to relax.

Mary stayed close to him, holding his arm in case he fell asleep in that position.

The children were anxious about who would read to them and who they could turn to for advice and comforting words, but Rebecca and Olivia promised them a sleepover full of surprises, and their sadness turned into excitement and joyful anticipation.

Devin promised to let Lin know that they had arrived safely…and the time to leave had come.

Suddenly, there was silence; a cool breeze blew among the residents, and the sound of the announcements coming from the pipes pierced the stillness. Everyone went about their tasks, smiling, with a prayer in their hearts and the hope that the couple would return home safely.

* * *

No doubt someone was watching over these kindred spirits; the journey went smoothly, with very little conversation. All their attention was focused on their surroundings and driving carefully.

Under the cover of night, they reached a wooden cabin. Devin breathed a sigh of relief.  “We’re here.”

All around them, they could make out the dark outlines of the forest. When they got out of the car, thousands of stars twinkled overhead; the sky was perfectly clear. The scent of the forest hung in the air, an owl hooted somewhere in the distance, and the frogs were putting on a little concert. They listened to the sounds of nature with delight.

They crossed the threshold, and the host gave them a quick tour of the house, not wanting to prolong his time with them unnecessarily. He stole glances at them. The couple looked at each other, communicating in a way he couldn’t understand; they were surrounded by a unique aura – an attraction. When she stood by the window, his younger brother was right behind her, stroking her back with his hand; when she walked toward the kitchen, they held each other’s little fingers. It touched him; he felt happily unnecessary here. He cleared his throat to rouse them from their state of quiet adoration. “Make the most of this time, have fun!” He winked at them and left quickly.

Their joyful thanks still rang in his ears as he approached the car. He looked around at this secluded spot, charming, isolated, and perfect for them. A smile appeared on his face. Enjoy your time together. He started the engine and set off, leaving a cloud of exhaust fumes.

The door closed. He heard the sound of the van driving away; their luggage was still waiting in the cozy entryway. It was an important moment, spontaneously planned but unique. His eyes were closed. Our trip together; the first one. Tomorrow will be a time to admire the sunrise and the whole spectrum of colors, watch the sky change throughout the day, wade in the water, touch the grass, have breakfast on the porch, take a walk in the woods, and listen to the sounds of nature.

“I put the food in the fridge.” Her voice snapped him out of his reverie.

He nodded in response and tenderly embraced her. “We’re really here.”

She hugged him tighter. “Really, even though it feels like a dream.”

Her words went straight to his heart, warming it up. “The most beautiful ones.”  He trembled, on the verge of an eruption of emotions.

The sparkle in her eyes was promising. “Let’s rest up for tomorrow.” With a single touch of her hand, she took control of him. They heard a creaking sound as they climbed the stairs step by step. This silence was pleasant, alluring.

Suddenly, she ran forward, laughing. He paused for a moment on the step, giving her time, sensing her playful yet almost sensual mood.

The sound of the water reached his ears, and he began a leisurely stroll. The bright light from the bathroom illuminated the room, entirely paneled in wood with a large bed that invited rest – and more…her scattered clothes showed the way.

This silent invitation was always an honor to him; he shed his unnecessary clothes onto the soft carpet.

The bathroom was pleasantly warm, and steam rose gently from the shower, stirring his imagination; he slowly slid open the glass door. You are stunning.

Haste was not part of his plan, but her beauty shone even brighter in those moments when she was focused on him. Her gaze swept over every inch of his body, a current of ecstasy flowing from the depths to the surface of his skin. The floral scent overwhelmed him, and when their bodies touched, he surrendered to the boundless sweetness. He lifted her, brushing her soft lips with his tongue. She was exquisite, delightful. Their breaths merged into a shared melody of sighs.

With every movement, he felt the refreshing stream of water on his back;  her hands tangled in his hair. He licked the droplets from her neck, her legs wrapped tightly around his waist. I can forget the thrill of uncertainty, the dreams of her touch, the constant escapes. In her eyes, acceptance and the same wonder, the need for union.

In a feverish rush, their breathing grew rapid and ragged… She dug her fingers into his muscular back, completely giving in to the symphony of his caresses.

Intoxicated by the whirlwind of sensations, close to the final, he pressed his lips to her ear, letting himself be carried away by the pulsing wave.

A few moments later, after drying off and combing their hair, they lay in the wide bed; he slipped one hand under the pillow and wrapped the other around her body and nestled his head against her neck. The realization that they were together in this place struck him with great force; and in the morning, the sun’s glow would greet them and gaze upon the blue sky. He tightened his embrace, his whole body trembling. Emotion enveloped him completely; he let the salty drops fall.

“Vincent?” The anxiety was palpable not only in her words; she began to move.

“No, stay; it’s good just the way it is now. It’s a state of deep contentment and harmony.”

She intertwined her fingers with his. “This journey is something new for us.”

“Yes, a level of happiness reaching the sky.”

“I couldn’t describe it any better.”

He smiled slightly. “Let’s rest.”

“I’m in,” she whispered, half asleep… and after a moment, in the stunning silence, he could hear her steady breathing. Before he joined her, his thoughts drifted to the promise that had just been fulfilled, which opened another door for him…

They kept many memories in their hearts: picnics on the grass, walks in the woods, stolen kisses by a tree, listening to the sound of the water, quiet contemplation as they stood embraced, gazing at the sunset. Unbridled delight at the dawning day.

One moment stood out in particular. At noon, he was lying on the grass, listening to the birds singing, his hands behind his head, his face turned toward the sun, relaxed, content, at one with nature, glowing in the rays. His smile, so different from any she had ever seen, made her want to capture it and tuck it deep inside her heart.

The thought flashed through her mind; she reached for her Polaroid camera and took a picture of him – a perfect one. A keepsake for Father, a moment when such obvious joy was written all over his son’s face. Whenever he looked at this photo, he would remember what a huge difference his consent had made…