WINTERING

Chapter 12: Human Too

AT HARPER'S COTTAGE

DUNCAN'S POV: I struggle to find the right words, my hands fidgeting nervously in my lap. Finally, I take a deep breath and begin to speak. "Harper, I know I've never been very open about my past as an assassin. It's a part of me that I've always tried to bury deep within, hoping that it would eventually fade away. But lately, the memories have been flooding back, and I can't seem to push them away any longer." She listens intently. "I was 24 when I was recruited into the agency. Full of anger and resentment towards the world, I saw it as an opportunity to make a difference and to finally have a purpose in life. I was trained in combat, weapons, and tactics, and I excelled at it. Killing someone became as easy as breathing."

She reaches out and takes my hand. "As time went on, the lines between right and wrong started to blur. The agency gave me orders to eliminate targets, and I never questioned them. These were people who were deemed as perils but in the end, they were still human beings. Tears start to well up in my eyes. Harper squeezes my hand tighter, silently offering comfort and understanding. Then she says, "Duncan, I know you carry a heavy burden, but you can't blame yourself for the actions you were forced to take." She looks at me with a glints in her eyes. "You're right. I can't change the past, but I can use my experiences to make a positive impact. I'll survive, but for now, I have you and our future to look forward to."

HARPER'S POV: I could see the relief in his eyes as he finally let out what had been weighing on his mind for so long. As he spoke, I realized how much I had been taking for granted in our relationship. This experience helped me understand Duncan better and appreciate the courage it took for him to open up to me. I have seen Duncan grow into a more confident and secure person. I believe that our intimate conversations have played a significant role in this transformation.

As I sit here, with Duncan snuggled up against my chest, I can't help but think about how lucky I am to have him in my life. Being in a relationship with him has been incredible so far. From our first date to now, we have shared countless memories and experiences. I feel his body relax into mine, I am overwhelmed with a sense of warmth and contentment. It's like all my worries and stresses fade away in that moment, and all that matters is him and I, in our little bubble of love and comfort. There is a sense of security and protection it brings. I feel like I can shield us from anything that comes our way. It's a feeling of responsibility and devotion that I cherish.

We've had some of our deepest and most honest conversations while cuddling. It's like we're more in tune with each other's emotions and thoughts when we're physically connected. And let's not forget about the physical benefits of cuddling. Studies have shown that cuddling can release oxytocin, also known as the "love hormone", which can reduce stress and decrease blood pressure. Some may argue that cuddling can become monotonous and lose its appeal over time. It's something we make sure to incorporate into our daily routine. Even when we're not in the mood, we make an effort to hug or cuddle for at least a few minutes. It's like we're reminded of why we fell in love with each other in the first place. Cuddling with Duncan is like pressing a reset button on our relationship, bringing us back to a place of love and understanding.