Chapter 70

We were driving through hilly country roads, trees on each side. Some offered the first signs of autumn with patches of orange and yellow leaves. However, the wonderful bastard driving wasn't telling me anything about where he was taking us. It was eating me with excitement. Not only was everything a surprise. Luke already dropped a few surprises on me this morning that hyped me up even more.

For our safety, I dyed my hair a dark brown the night before. Yes, bye-bye blonde hair, I won't miss you! However, when I woke this morning, I didn't expect to see Luke changed his appearance too. He shaved off his bushy beard. Plus, since I woke up late, Luke had plenty of time to get ready for our trip. Whatever he did to prepare was a mystery. However, it apparently included going to a store because he surprised me with a gift.

The gesture was beyond sweet. Though Jackson picked me up necessities the night before, Luke had a more thoughtful approach. Before Francis departed and headed home, he saw the gift and repeated my thoughts: Luke was going all out for me. Along with some make-up and black flats, Luke bought me a sundress. One I was wearing now.

The cotton aqua material was comfortable while it also complimented my curves. The U-neck dress was plain, the only design stitched in being the seam that wrapped around my stomach. Below it, the dress flowed out flat like the top half until it stopped at my kneecaps. It was simple, comfy, and very pretty. It contrasted well with my necklace and my now dark hair.

Windows open, catching some of my wild brown strands, I tucked them behind my ear. My eyes were set on Luke. He couldn't get any better. This couldn't get any better. Despite the excitement over my new dress and not knowing where we were going, I loved just being with Luke. Nothing wrong with staring at the man either. In nice khaki shorts with a plain black tee-shirt, he looked sexy as all hell folks! Luke was currently blowing my mind in other ways too.

"No way," I laughed.

He nodded with a smile, watching the road. "There are a lot of silly laws like that in Ohio."

"Five women living in one house is illegal?"

"Yup."

You folks heard right. The knowledgeable police officer was telling me some of the most ridiculous laws in our home state. Many were difficult to believe. "I don't get it dude. 'Five women under one roof, I need backup now, shots fired.' Have you ever gotten that call?"

Over the air hitting the open windows, Luke's amused voice reached me. "I don't think anybody ever has gotten that call. Shots fired?"

"They could be five very upset women."

"Well, I haven't gotten any call about that issue. A lot of these are just known as being silly laws," he said, running a hand back through his dancing hair.

Talk about weird. I've broken many laws. Imagine how many more I unknowingly broke. "What else is there?"

His hand rested on my knee. Eyes catching mine for a split second, a teasing spark lit them. "Anal sex is banned in Cincinnati."

Those insane words.... "Are you fucking kidding?" I laughed.

"Nope," he chuckled.

How could that be real? Apparently, it was. I've never had such a powerful learning experience. I won't be forgetting this. But... why? We didn't live in Cincinnati, but from my knowledge, it wasn't full of a bunch of anal-crazed monsters. Tucking more hair behind me, I scoffed. "Why is it banned?"

"Usually with weird laws, there is one instance that caused it to become illegal. Nobody calls the police for having anal sex. If it's consensual, there is no reason. So, I'm assuming it's illegal for one very specific reason. A case or event that made it clear a law needed to be made."

"Like what? Some big-dick dude fucked a chick with a super small asshole? Ended up killing her?"

Eyes focused on the curving road, he shrugged. "Probably not that, but honestly, that isn't too far-fetched. Absurd laws are in effect for absurd reasons."

"Wow." Resting my hand on his arm, I sighed dramatically. "You know we can never live in Cincinnati now, right?"

Immediately, his stomach and chest shook with laughter. "Oh really?" His hand on my leg slid up under my dress, rubbing circles along my thigh. His teasing expression returned to me. "Obviously, I'd never take you there," he said in a more intimate tone. He gave me a once over, making my heart jump. He's been stealing glances all day. Some heated, some adoring. No doubt because for once, we could fully focus on each other and only each other.

When we finally reached our destination, it was clear it would only enhance our focus and time with each other. Luke eased the truck into a long gravel driveway surrounded by trees. When he parked, there was no sign of the road we came from. Not like it mattered. What I could see through the windshield was more important. It was a small cabin.

Talk about a surprise! Jeez, a cabin? Better than a hotel in every way! The square log house was perched on a plot of grassy land, bordered by trees. Behind the cabin was a small lake, water calm and still. The open space behind the cabin allowed me to see into the distance. Other cabins were spaced out on the other side of the lake, perched by the water too.

Parking the truck on the gravel, I couldn't stop myself from jumping out. I was excited to look around, soak in the amazing beauty of this place. When I helped Luke out and handed him his crutches, he informed me he rented the cabin for two nights. Two nights! To think this was all ours for two nights... I mean, can it get any better?

"Every cabin on the lake is owned by an older couple who maintain and rent them out. I told them when we would be arriving. So, the door should be unlocked and the key inside," Luke said, grasping the handles of his crutches and letting them take his weight.

"I can't wait to check it out."

"Let's grab our stuff first," he said.

We walked around the truck to have access to our bags and luggage. Swinging open the truck door for us, I took in the backseat. We didn't have much to unpack. Just a few duffle bags stacked and in reach. However, as I was about to see, Luke was all about the unexpected today.

He nonchalantly removed his hefty duffle bag and turned to take it into the cabin. It was a hefty enough piece of luggage though. When he removed it, what was hiding on the other side of the backseat was revealed.

I laughed, turning on my heels and snagging the bottom of Luke's shirt before he got too far. "You are something else."

Holding both the crutch handle and duffle bag with one hand, he turned around to face me. Eyes bright and sweet, his face was lit up in amusement. Oh yeah. He knew exactly what I was talking about. "What do you mean?"

I bit my smile, pointing behind me towards the truck and what was inside. Which was a big cardboard box... labeled 'Surprises for Albany. Do not open.'

He looked behind me where the backseat was in view. 'Realization' crossed him. "Oh that," he nodded, brows raised as if surprised. Then, he suddenly dropped his duffle bag and the handle of the crutch, letting it fall to the ground too. His now free hand snapped forward, wrapping around my back. Pulling me in, surprising me with the fast action, his smile grew wide as he trapped me against him. "That is none of your business."

Laughing at his movement, I gazed up into his amused adoring eyes. "None of my business? Do you think you are going to stop me from opening something that says, 'do not open?'" Luke obviously knew that box would drive me crazy. I'm going to be wondering what is in it all day. I mean sure, I knew Luke had other stuff buried under the seats or covered up. I didn't care about whatever that shit was though. It was the box I really wanted to check out.

Leaning on his crutch as he held me to him, he dipped his head down to mine and smirked. "Just because I'm on crutches doesn't mean you can get away with opening that box. It would ruin all my tricks and surprises."

"What are you going to do?" I scoffed, rubbing my palms up and down  his chest. "Stop me with the handcuffs under the seat?"

"I'm counting on it later," he murmured with a wink, lightly patting my ass and making us erupt in more laughter. "My cuffs are in your surprise box so don't you worry," he continued, chuckling all the way down to my lips when he swept me into a light kiss.

Our smiling lips tilted up against each other. He muffled a low chuckle to the back of his throat. It was amazing and just so sweet. So lighthearted. Well, everything today was light and perfect. Even the weather turned out great. It was sunny and warm. And the best part: nothing about our problems plagued us.

After our lips locked in a few more kisses, he leaned back. Searching my eyes with joy, he said, "If you keep your hands out of that box... I'll take you to the next surprise after we unpack."

Box? Or new surprise? It was turning into a very tempting day – for a few reasons, as I'm sure you guys could tell. However, I wouldn't dare spoil Luke's plans. They were damn awesome so far. I guess I'll just have to keep wondering about that box.

Giddiness sprouting in my chest, I nodded. "It's a deal."

***

Luke's next surprise was something I didn't expect. Yes, I know that was the point of surprises; this though I still couldn't believe happened. After driving out into more open country, where there was more field and orchards, our destination was revealed. He took me to a winery.

Yeah, yeah, I get wine tasting is... for rich dorks (yes, Luke basically fit the bill). Trust me, I teased him the whole time for being whiter than I originally thought. I mean a winery? But no kidding, I ended up loving it!

We were the only costumers in the small establishment. Standing at a high bar next to each other, the woman on the other side gave us a menu. It listed all the different fancy wines available to try. Believe me, there was plenty to try. The brick interior of the winery was littered with shelves of different wines. We would pick a few different wines from the menu at a time then the hostess would pour us samples.

Luke set aside his crutches, the long counter offering support enough. It allowed him to comfortably swallow me in the romance he was displaying. Caressing my side, holding my hand between drinks, playfully teasing me.... The woman on the other side of the bar, serving us the different samples, commented how sweet Luke was being. Something I immediately agreed with and blushed. Luke will always go all out for me if he had the chance. For whatever reason though, this time, he was really laying on the charm. Hey, you won't hear me complaining.

We tried white wines, reds.... Sure, the lady explained what the difference was. Explained how there were other types. I didn't absorb anything she told me though. I just went with whichever sounded good to me. So far, none exactly had that orgasmic taste I was looking for.

After our first batch, I picked one called Cherry Tart. The older plump woman with short blonde hair poured it for us. Luke took his sip, setting the empty wine glass down. He smiled to me as I took mine. "What do you think?"

My face immediately scrunched. "Too sweet for me,"  I said, looking between the smiling hostess and Luke.

"Kind of like you?"

Him and his cheesy one liners... I smirked and elbowed him lightly. The woman chuckled, taking our empty glasses. "Hopefully the next three won't be as bad. I recommend you trying the Pinot Noir. If that's still too sweet, we have the seasonal Apple Pumpkin Cider. Beginners usually like the fruitier ones. But circle whichever ones you would like on the menu," she said, walking into the backroom with our wineglasses.

I leaned into his side. "I don't know who would pay 30 bucks a bottle for this stuff," I whispered, searching his gentle green eyes. "Well... you would I suppose," I teased.

He scoffed, grazing his fingers up and down my back. "Yes, I enjoy wine."

I turned to him more. "I've only ever seen you drink beer."

"Beer is good and cheap. That's what I usually drink." Leaning down and closer, a few inches between our faces, his voice softened. "Wine though is for special occasions."

My heart fluttered. Special occasions? I suppose this trip was a special occasion. His loving gaze though hinted and teased there was more behind his words. Was there more up his sleeve? All I could do was smile and shake my head playfully. I think it was safe to say this man's goal was to give me a heart attack.

"I think you're trying to get on my good side," I teased, tapping his nose with my index finger and playfully spinning back to focus on the menu. He didn't need to take pleasure in seeing my flushed cheeks full on.

A low chuckle reached the air before he kissed the top of my head. "Let's pick the next three and cross your fingers you won't find them as terrible."

"Hey, it ain't my fault I'm not used to drinking wine. I'm an easy-to-please beer drinker."

"Well today, I'm bumping you up to my 'rich white boy status.'" he said, repeating my words from earlier.

I couldn't disagree. The man was spoiling me in every way possible. Scoffing, I grabbed the marker and handed it to Luke, pressing deeper into his side. His eyes squinted down to the paper. "Let's see," he mumbled, resting an elbow against the bar as his other with the marker raised to the menu.

"We should try the ones she mentioned."

He nodded, circling the Pinot Noir and Apple Pumpkin Cider.

"What else do you want to try? You said you like dry wine." Again... whatever the fuck that meant. I tried a dry one already. Though it wasn't sweet, I hated it.

"I'm probably going to try their Cabernet. See if it tastes like the Cabernet Sauvignon I had before. It all depends on the level of grape ripeness if it's good," he said, circling our third choice.

His words just backed up all my teasing. Luke sure sounded like quite the expertise.... And very particular with his fine fancy uppity wines. I gnawed on my smile, holding in a laugh.

My thoughts must have been printed on my expression. I could feel his eyes bore into the side of my face. "Shut up," he mumbled.

Once the woman returned, she gave us a sample from the three wines we circled. First was the Pinot Noir. I could taste the difference. It was better. Next was the Cabernet Sauvignon. Luke really enjoyed it; I hated it. When we tried the Apple Pumpkin Cider... I mean, that just sounds like a winner, doesn't it guys? It was by far my favorite. Even though we tried two more wines for our next batch, none were as good.

"That was amazing, thank you for everything," I smiled to the woman once we finished and were about to leave.

Unexpectedly, Luke reached into his khaki shorts pocket and withdrew his wallet. "You know we came here to buy some too, right?"

I raised my brows. "We did?"

"Yes." He smiled, sifting through his bills. Then, he glanced back up to the woman. "We'll take the Apple Pumpkin Cider."

It was called wine tasting. Not wine buying. But hey, I guess Luke meant what he said about special occasions though. It already was to me. For us being sore, him on crutches, and needing to stay out of the public eye... Luke did freaking amazing with this trip so far. With the cabin and now this... and treating me like a queen the entire time. He just bought a 40-dollar bottle of wine. Though he enjoyed the apple pumpkin, you know his thoughtful ass bought it because it was my favorite.

"Let's get another bottle," I jumped in as he was paying. "What's that one you really liked? One of the first ones we tried?"

"Merlot?" the woman chimed in.

"Yes. Get that or the Cabernet," I said, like the sweet angel I was. Neither of them tasted great to me. Either way, I wanted Luke to treat himself. Which he did. After purchasing a bottle of Merlot too, we grabbed the two bottles from the racks and headed out to the truck. With more wine, it became more of a special occasion, right? The man wasn't even finished surprising me either.

He said he was taking me to dinner. Don't fucking blame me for thinking he meant a restaurant. After our time at the winery, I almost expected Luke to treat us to an equally fancy dining experience. Yes, I know, my spoiled self set the bar high. However, what he did was much better. Luke provided us with a picnic.

He proved the beautiful day allowed for perfect outdoor dining. He took us to an isolated yet beautiful park. It was open grassy land in all directions. There were a few trees scattered in the field, offering shade under the sun. The best was obviously the massive willow tree, which was the one we picked to settle under. The dipped branches umbrellaed over us and the blanket we spread, swaying in the soft warm breeze.

Luke brought a simple propane grill to prepare our dinner on. Careful of his leg, he sat down on the edge of the blanket with the grill in front of him. While he grilled our burgers, I prepared everything else. I grabbed two cans of Pepsi from the mini cooler and got out the condiments. After our burgers were done and I dressed them up, we settled on the blanket and had one of the best dinners he ever made me. Yes, believe it or not, it was just that good.

"Shannon does not seem like the type that would enjoy skydiving. But hey, good for her. That's a fun experience she won't forget," I said, taking a bite of my delicious burger. Prepared exclusively by Chef Luke.

The chef in question was sitting against the trunk of the willow tree. His legs were stretched out before him on the blanket. "She's been open to new experiences since she's met Roger. But I don't know. Skydiving... I don't see the appeal," he said, taking a swig from his pop.

"You wouldn't want to try it?"

"No. I'm sure you would try it." Picking up the last of his cheeseburger from the plate on his lap, he took the final bite and set his plate aside.

"You're right, I would try it. Jumping out of a plane would be the thrill of a lifetime. You know, it would kind of give a false sense of risk."

His expression turned sweet, brow arching. "I see your desire for risk is still there."

Hearing those words warmed my insides. Luke was referring to one of the first things we realized we had in common with each other after first meeting. That we both liked having a slice of risk and thrill despite wanting control. The memory of us first learning that about each other made me grin. "Yeah, what happened to your desire for risk? Too chicken for skydiving."

"I've had enough risk and thrill for ten lifetimes."

I couldn't argue with that. "True." Finishing my burger, I knelt up put our empty plates into the plastic bag for trash. Then, I set aside my pop and the bag of chips we finished snaking on. "Guess now we know I'm the cool one in the relationship," I mumbled.

His arm swiped around me as I was cleaning up and I immediately laughed. Falling back to lay on the blanket, he dragged me with him. "Excuse me?" he said, turning me around and grasping me to him. He waggled his eyebrows. "How are you the cool one?"

"Because I'm the risk taker. You even said so," I said, resting my chin on his chest.

"Yes, but you aren't the risk taker you were before. Skydiving isn't the same as some of the things you did in the past. Like stealing, drugs... and running from a certain fierce and sexy police officer you knew would eventually arrest you," he whispered.

His reference to the night we met made me smile. The night I stupidly decided to cross through my hometown. "Best mistake and risk of my life."

"I agree," he said, raising his free hand and caressing the back of my head.

For a long moment, we just stared at each other and smiled. Enjoying the moment. Enjoying just laying on a blanket together. We soaked it all in. The soft breeze ruffled my hair and the willow branches. Birds chirping.... We soaked it in, but our eyes never left each other. Who else can say their partner arrested them and that was how they met? Good story if you ask me.

"So anyway, over all, I am more of a badass."

He rolled his eyes. "Then what am I?"

"You... have nice teeth," I said, propping my elbows against the blanket. Moving up to directly stare down into his eyes, I continued with my nonchalant tone. "You are rich. And... you make amazing burgers."

"I've never been so flattered," he muttered sarcastically with a smirk.

"I'm not finished. You are also the sweetest, most thoughtful and dedicated man I've ever met. And I am so grateful and happy for all you have done for me today. There. Is that better?"

"That's a little better," he admitted sweetly.

Though we were being playful, I really wanted him to see I meant it. I appreciated him more than he knew. Lowering myself back to him, resting my cheek on his warm chest, I spoke sincerely. "But Luke. Truly, like really... thank you. Thank you, baby. Today has just been, well, beyond unbelievable. You went all out on me and I loved it," I whispered, tucking myself more against him. He was as comfortable as he was sweet. Closing my eyes, enjoying the warm breeze on my lids, I took a deep breath. "And I love my dress."

"I'm glad," he whispered, hand stroking up and down my back. "You deserve it."

His touch sent tingles over me. "And I love you," I whispered, falling deeper into my tranquil state. After the hell we went through, it felt good just to lay against him. It's been a long time since I've been this relaxed.

However, it got the best of me. During our light talking, my stupid ass did the worst thing possible. I fell asleep. Yes, I fell asleep like a fucking loser. When I woke, the realization filled me with dread and embarrassment.

Fuzzy vision focusing, my heart dropped. The sky was pink and orange, streaking along the sky through the willow branches. Ugh, no! God damn, was the sun setting? From where I was pressed against Luke, I immediately sat up on the blanket. Sure enough, when I glanced around, all I could take in was the orange-tinted grass, trees, and sky. The air was cooler too. When I looked down though, I noticed Luke's light jacket was draped over my lap. Good thing he brought it out here with us. He must have covered me with it while I was sleeping.

The man I fell asleep against was staring up at me, still laying on his back. There was something in his gaze I hadn't seen yet today. Deeper thoughts played in his head. Maybe one of those deep thoughts danced along the lines of 'thanks for falling asleep, stupid.' Otherwise, I couldn't guess what was on his mind.

With one hand bent under his head, his other rose and rested on my side. "Hey, sleepy head," he said, offering a light smile.

I sighed. "I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to fall asleep. I ruined your plans; this was our special day and... Jesus, I'm the worst—"

"Albany," he scoffed, as if I was ridiculous. Sitting up next to me, he pulled me close to him. "My plans are not ruined. Second, you have every right to be tired after the mess you've dealt with."

"This was our day though," I shook my head. "I was having the best time."

"Well, I want you to keep having a good time," he snickered. "You didn't ruin a thing. Okay? I loved just relaxing with you. Trust me, I was more than content. Not to mention, you are now well rested for tonight."

He did good diverting me from feeling bad, that was for sure. "What's tonight?"

He searched my eyes for a moment, as if trying to find the answer to my question. Either that or he didn't know how to properly answer. Lips pursing, he looked down. "Well... I guess we will see, won't we?"

It made me smirk. Interesting. The dude knew how to divert my attention and lift my spirits in the same second. It wouldn't be wrong to call him magic. "You know how to keep me guessing."

Lips tilting up, his eyes flicked back up to mine, deeper in thought. A warm glint dressed the green in his gaze. Instead of responding, that's all he did. Was just... stare at me. With the smile, overwhelming love, and maybe a little hesitation.

"You alright?" I asked, half teasingly and half curious. He seemed preoccupied, with something maybe on his mind.

"Yeah, why?"

I couldn't stop looking for answers on his face. It wasn't like he was down in the dumps. The amount of care and admiration he was still showing me wasn't fake. From the way he was looking at me, maybe he was just wrapped up in me. Because boy, let me tell you, his eyes flicking between my face and the blanket were powerfully warm.

"Did something happen after I fell asleep?" I laughed, inching closer.

He chuckled under his breath. "I finally got some peace and quiet."

"Excuse me?" I asked, pushing him to his back again.

He grabbed me, pulling me with him and on top of him. Staring up into my face, he flattened me against him with a strong arm around my back. "You heard me. Your snoring is at least better than your constant nagging. How about that? I'm finally standing up for myself." he said, grinning.

"Standing up for yourself is unattractive. So, take that," I said, sharing the overwhelming stream of life that existed in our eye contact. The fainting orange tint around us added a realistic element to the dreamy world we were in. No drama, no stress, just light-hearted fun.

"Since it's so unattractive, what do you suggest?"

I couldn't hold back from laughing. "You stay my bitch and do everything I say."

His smile turned adoring. There was a clear message radiating from his eyes that said he loved me and loved everything between us. Delicately, his arm not around my back rose and he cupped my neck. His warm fingers pulled me down. Lips in reach of mine, he enveloped me in a kiss.

It was lighthearted and sweet, but turned deep. Enough so that my chest tumbled around drunk. The sensations his lips sent through me were intense and filled with more than I could comprehend. His hold, his smooth lips meshing in mine.... it rushed my head. He swallowed me in him and his gentleness. Meeting his lips, moving them slowly and lovingly together, I relaxed against him more. Hands slipping up his chilly arms, my fingers went higher until they slid up into his hair.

We stayed that way for a couple minutes. By the time my mind was a mess, my emotions high, Luke suddenly withdrew from the kiss. His brows were dipped, eyes searching mine with desperation the second I opened them. "Would you like to go on a drive with me?"

His boner for wanting to drive came out of nowhere. I wasn't expecting him to break the kiss with a question like that – or with a question asked with such need in his eyes. Then again, it was a day of surprises. Luke did say there might be more in store tonight. "Sure," I chuckled, caressing his hair back.

***

Just when I thought today couldn't get any better... Luke redefined the meaning of romantic and special. We were laying in the truck bed, staring up into the night sky. Blankets padded the truck bed under us. We had a blanket draped over us as well, keeping us warm and comfortable.

After navigating a narrow road in the woods, Luke parked the truck in a flat open field. He said it was called a 'dark spot' and there were a few other fields like this close by. According to Luke, people come to 'dark spots' like this because there is no light pollution. So, when skies are clear, places like this are amazing for admiring the night sky and countless stars. They're apparently very popular attractions.

However, there was a reason we were the only people around tonight.

The moon was bright, illuminating our surroundings. But a majority of the sky was covered with clouds, blocking most stars from sight. There were only a few stars peeking through. So over all... not what Luke wanted or had planned for.

Regardless, I thought it was beautiful and perfect. With the most beautiful man you can imagine too. Lying beside him, layers of blankets cushioning us from the hard truck bed, all I could think was he outdid himself. My head rested on his outstretched arm, using it as a pillow. Eyes searching the sky above, I smiled. "I don't see why you are disappointed. This is beautiful, even if there are clouds."

"I'm not disappointed."

"Then why are you acting all weird and quiet?"

He paused for a moment. "I don't know. It's just... it's nothing like I wanted for us. Trust me, I made sure tonight would be the perfect night with clear skies. Maybe I went to the wrong spot."

"Maybe you just have poor weather-checking skills," I teased, stroking his arm I was using as a pillow.

"Hey, maybe..." he whispered, chuckling awkwardly.

His tone and that chuckle grabbed my attention. Tilting my head to my right, cheek now pressing against his arm extended on the bed of blankets, I took in the man beside me. His eyes were already aimed in my direction. The moon casted enough light to illuminate his face. His dazed face. Brows were low in thought, gaze focused on searching my face.

Upon meeting my gaze, he snapped out of it, trying to catch up with reality. Most likely seeing my worried eyes, he smiled and shrugged. "Like I said, I checked the weather, the different reports. I did my homework. I just... I don't know."

Based on his dazed expression when I glanced over and the awkwardness in his words, I had a feeling there was more going on in his head. However, all I knew for sure was that he was bummed about the cloudy skies.

"I think you should stop worrying. It's a beautiful night. The moon is out at least. It's warm, I'm cozy and laying with you." I said lightly, looking back up. Scanning the massive night sky, I took a deep breath of the fresh night air. Though it cooled down a bit, it was still warm enough for my arms to remain bare over the blanket covering us up to our chests. "And hey. Because it's cloudy, nobody else is here. That's a positive, right?"

When I didn't receive any response, I glanced back over to him. It was like he didn't even hear my question; he was too distracted with staring at me. That expression was on his face again. Aimed at me again. With his head tilted towards me, cheek resting against the blankets under us, his gaze caressed my face. In wonder, worry, deep thought. Though it was gone in a flash, replaced by a small genuine smile for me, it raised concerns.

Leaning up, I scooted closer. Propping my side against the blankets, facing him, I stared down into his sweet eyes. "What's wrong?" Tucking my arm under the the blanket, I rested a hand against his chest.

Though he gave me a warm smile, his heart was beating fast against my hand. "Listen, um..." he started. An awkward chuckle brushed his lips again. "I just wanted you to see the stars tonight, that's all."

Holding in a small laugh at the perfectionist in him coming out, I leaned closer, stressing my words as I spoke. "Listen carefully," I smiled, searching his warm eyes. "You are a dumbass. After you get that though your head, I'll tell you it's because you don't see how much everything means to me. Don't beat yourself up over anything. You can't change the sky's plans, okay? Only the aliens can. Besides. I don't care. Like I said, I love just being here with you and don't mind that it's cloudy. You said yourself when we were in Montana and looking up at the stars to not expect the same view of in Washington," I chuckled. "So Luke... it's more than fine. I love this. In all honesty, I couldn't ask for anything better. The moon is out, I'm with my man, and I had one of the best days of my life. You've done more for me than you even know and I will never forget it. And guess what? This cloudy sky show is just as perfect as everything else today. Okay? Please know I think this is more than perfect."

With my hand against his chest, somehow, his heart picked up even more erratically. It was reflected in his parted lips. He was breathing hard, searching my eyes. And for the first time since we've been here, there was a sureness in his gaze. "We should go for a walk," he whispered.

With how quiet he's been and feeling bummed for the cloudy night.... I guess my words helped. What other reason would he have to want to go for a walk on crutches? "Do you have to take a shit?"

"Jesus," he laughed.

As it turned out, he didn't need to take a shit in the woods. He actually really just wanted to go for a walk. Though he was on crutches, the land was smooth enough. It's not like there were a lot of obstacles either. We were in the middle of a grassy field. For whatever reason though, Luke was adamant about going beyond the field.

When he said he wanted to go into the woods, I snorted. "Just because you weren't happy with the sky, that means we have to go on a hike?"

"Pretty much," he smiled, hands on the crutch handles tight as we moved towards the trees.

He wanted to go into the trees, I won't complain. It's not like I was the one on crutches. Plus, it really was a nice night. Even though Luke's jacket was now zipped up around me, it wasn't too chilly out. Thanks to my dress, my bare legs brushed against the cool grass and it didn't bother me. So, it was a mystery to me why Luke was cold. He was basically shaking.

"You sure know how to show a lady a good time," I teased as we crossed into the shadows of the trees.

"I hope so."

Staying close, I followed his outline between a couple big tress trunks. It wasn't long though until it was clear Luke had other motives. After only a minute though, I became the one who may or may not shit. Because unexpectedly, the forest did not continue like I figured. Instead, I stepped out into an open space with Luke. The sight... stunned me in place.

We were on top of a cliff. Yes, that's right. A cliff. The ground was pure rock. Extending before us, the level ground stopped only a couple dozen yards away, dropping off. We weren't close to the edge, but thanks to the moonlight, I could see limitless water shimmer and stretch out towards the horizon. Over the sound of crickets in the background, whooshing water came from far below the cliff.

Being up high and on this cliff, the warm breeze picked up, brushing against my face – and my lips that parted from surprise. The sight was... breathtaking. Unbelievable. Just... gorgeous. How? How did he do this? How did he know this was here through the trees? I pretty much was mentally preparing for a long walk, then not two minutes after we entered the trees, Luke led me to this spot. A very high spot that overlooked endless water. I had to believe this was the damn ocean. I didn't even think we traveled that far west for this trip. Then again, Luke made sure to keep everything a secret.

My chest already tumbled at the surprising beautiful sight. When my wide eyes slowly looked up to the man beside me though... it tumbled more. His green eyes didn't give two shits about our surroundings. They were tilted down and on me, searching my reaction with a power I didn't expect. Overwhelming love, and... apprehensiveness.

"How?" I breathed, shaking my head.

Shrugging innocently, he nodded ahead. "Come on, let's get a better view," he said, moving the legs of his crutches forward, propelling his body forward with them.

Following beside him, a moment later, we stopped when we were only feet from the drastic straight drop. The wind picked up slightly from where we stood, overlooking the world of water. The waves were tiny but beautiful, dancing and glistening under the moonlight. If the field of small waves didn't make it clear how high up we were, peering over the edge did. Hair blowing back against the warm breeze, my eyes widened in awe at seeing the sight below us.

Not two feet in front of me and a couple hundred down... water collided with huge boulders and the cliff. The water glowed from where it crashed, exploding in a veil of splashing water. It was just... beautiful. Everything was. The water, the huge rock cliff we stood on top of, the night sky.... Even behind us, yards back where we emerged from the woods, the trees had a glow to them as well.

"Fuck, this is so beautiful," I smiled, shaking my head slowly.

"It is," he whispered, taking a few steps back with his crutches. Turning and watching him with a smile, I couldn't help but notice the glow in his eyes. It wasn't from the moonlight though like everything else. Gaze piercing mine, he spoke in a hushed voice. "Albany."

"Yeah?" Confusion began crossing me as I took him in.

Staring at me for a long moment, his chest picked up. "I lied to you."

"What are you talking about?"

Not daring to break eye contact, he inched closer, dropping a crutch in the process and leaning against just one. Staring down into my eyes and taking my breath away, he whispered, "I didn't sell it."

Lied? Didn't sell it? What was he talking about? The amount of sweat forming along his forehead told me that whatever it was, it was damn serious and important. And it was.

Wincing at his movement, Luke lowered the remaining crutch to the ground as his other hand reached into his pocket. Sucking up the pain, he knelt down on his knee before me. Staring up at me with loving and desperate eyes... he withdrew his hand from the pocket. Between his fingers, he held up a ring to me. "Will you marry me?"

___________________________

___________________________________________________________

Alright... give it to me. What did you think? Is Luke jumping the gun and proposing too soon? I'm sure Luke is just as nervous as you guys 😝

I'm sorry it took so long again, but I ran into quite a few bumps this chapter. As you can see, it was a pretty big one so I wanted to get it right. Please let me know what you think I worked quite hard – and Albany might need some advice right now haha