Forever and ever 2. The adventure starts now.

Part 193.

Tom's pov~

The lake was a marvel, indescribable in mere words. It inspired a blend of awe and trepidation—the blue surface shifting into inky depths where shadows turned into dark abysses. Yet, its tranquility was undeniable, with gentle ripples kissing the shore.

Parker never lost his love for the water. Today, he leaped off the dock, his arms adorned with floaties, straight into Hero's awaiting embrace. I couldn't help but let a grin creep onto my face, my arms crossed over my chest. The warmest breeze in a long time filled my lungs, carrying the scent of fresh grass and the prelude of grilling meats, instilling an extraordinary calm within my soul.

"Couldn't you stay here forever?" My stunning wife joined me, clad in a flowing white dress, hair adorned with a flower she must have picked up on the way. The thought of today being our last day here brought an unexpected unease, bordering on fear. The prospect of sleeping in my lonely apartment by tomorrow, without Y/N by my side, away from our friends, felt almost unbearable. I stared at her, the gentle wind playing with her hair.

"Yeah," I murmured, a frown creasing my brow as I wondered how she always seemed to read my mind. "You too?"

"I'd move here in a heartbeat," she declared without a hint of hesitation. She seemed so certain, so at home with the idea of living in this secluded haven. But it wasn't the place itself that made it special. It was quiet, tucked away in the middle of nowhere, where the sun didn't always shine, the lake wasn't spectacularly unique, and the house itself was far from luxurious. Perfect for a vacation with friends, yes. But for living? I always imagined us in something more modern. Yet, for Y/N, I'd consider anywhere. While I pursued my dreams in the bustling city of New York, she longed for the simplicity of the countryside. Wasn't that what truly mattered?

"Maybe we will, someday..." I suggested. I would follow her to the darkest corner of the earth if it meant we could be together. She gazed out into the distance, and I slipped my little finger into her palm, intertwining our hands. Enjoying this place was infinitely better when it included Y/N, my Y/N Holland. I loved her more than words could ever convey.

"Anyone for a cool drink?" Harry's cheerful voice cut through the late summer air as he emerged from the house, a crate of chilled beverages in hand. Ciara followed, balancing a tray of glasses. Sam stood by the grill with his daughter, and Harrison and Zendaya lounged near the hammock, just a few meters away. I nodded toward the table.

"Thirsty?" I asked, and Y/N nodded.

Hand in hand, we walked to the table, trusting Hero to keep an eye on Parker for a few minutes. He would make a great father one day; of that, I had no doubt.

"So, we have banana juice, cherry juice, pineapple juice, coconut juice—for those who want a mix. For a simpler refreshment, there's Coke, Fanta, lemonade. And, of course, beer," Harry announced, throwing me a knowing glance that suggested the beer was not an option for me. I understood, and honestly, I wasn't even in the mood for a burning sensation in my throat just now. Soon enough, I found myself holding a glass of lime and cherry juice—a surprisingly delightful combination. Y/N opted for banana with cherry, and after a brief taste test, I insisted mine tasted better. She, of course, had her own opinion. And I couldn't have adored her more for that.

"Hey- everyone! I was thinking about Halloween last night. Anyone up for a party?" Naturally, this question came from no one other than Harrison. When it came to hosting large gatherings, he was the undisputed king. Harrison threw at least three parties a year that either ended with a visit from the police or required weeks of cleanup. I couldn't deny it—they were always fantastic for taking your mind off things, but beyond that, they didn't offer much.