Bloodbound Hearts: A Tale of Eternal Love

Chapter 22: An Escape to Remember

Before they executed the plan, Laura and Alexis decided to leave Snowmass Village for a while and create some good memories together. Alexis welcomed the idea eagerly, and surprisingly, Laura's family also agreed, understanding the need for a brief respite before the dangerous mission ahead.

The next morning, as the sun cast its first rays over the village, Laura and Alexis were already packed and ready to go. They stood in the driveway, their bags loaded into the trunk of Laura's car. Selina, Vlad, Cristoff, and the rest of the Ashford family gathered to see them off.

"Are you sure you two will be safe?" Selina asked, her brow furrowed with concern.

"We'll be fine," Laura assured her, giving her sister a tight hug. "We'll stay in touch. Just a few days to clear our heads."

Vlad patted Alexis on the back. "Take care of her, alright?"

Alexis nodded. "I will. We'll be back before you know it."

As they drove away, the weight of their impending task momentarily lifted. They drove in silence for a while, the familiar landscape of Snowmass Village giving way to the open road. Alexis looked over at Laura, her face serene and determined, and felt a surge of gratitude for this moment of peace they were granted.

---

The drive to Denver, Colorado, was filled with light-hearted conversation and laughter, a stark contrast to the tension that had gripped them for weeks.

"What's the first thing you want to do when we get to Denver?" Alexis asked, glancing at Laura with a smile.

Laura thought for a moment, her eyes twinkling with excitement. "How about we visit the Denver Botanic Gardens? I've heard they're beautiful this time of year."

Alexis chuckled. "A garden? I thought you might say something more adventurous."

"Gardens can be adventurous," Laura retorted playfully. "Especially when you're with the right person."

---

Upon arriving in Denver, they checked into a cozy boutique hotel. The room was charming, with a view of the bustling city below. Laura placed her bag on the bed and turned to Alexis.

"Ready to explore?" she asked, her excitement contagious.

"Lead the way," Alexis replied, offering his hand.

---

Their first stop was the Denver Botanic Gardens. The lush greenery and vibrant flowers provided a serene backdrop for their day. They wandered along winding paths, stopping occasionally to admire a particularly beautiful bloom or to sit on a bench and simply enjoy each other's company.

"These flowers are amazing," Alexis said, inhaling the sweet scent of a rose.

Laura smiled, watching him with affection. "I love it here. It's so peaceful, like a little oasis in the middle of the city."

Alexis reached out and gently brushed a strand of hair from her face. "I'm glad we came. I needed this."

Laura leaned in, resting her head on his shoulder. "Me too. It feels good to just be us for a while."

---

As the afternoon sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the gardens, they found themselves sitting by a small pond, watching the koi fish swim lazily beneath the surface.

"Do you ever think about the future?" Alexis asked, breaking the comfortable silence.

Laura looked at him, her eyes thoughtful. "I do. I think about what life could be like after all this. After we deal with Theron and things settle down."

Alexis took her hand, intertwining their fingers. "I think about it too. I want us to have a future together, Laura. I want to be with you, no matter what."

Laura's heart swelled with emotion. "I want that too, Alexis. More than anything."

---

The next day, they explored the Denver Art Museum, losing themselves in the vast collection of artwork from around the world. They wandered through the exhibits, sharing their thoughts and impressions, feeling closer with each passing moment.

In the evening, they dined at a rooftop restaurant with a stunning view of the city skyline. Laura watched Alexis enjoy his meal, smiling at the normalcy of it all, even though she didn't partake.

"This is perfect," Laura said, raising her glass of water. "Thank you for being here with me."

Alexis smiled, clinking his glass against hers. "I wouldn't want to be anywhere else."

---

On their last day in Denver, they decided to take a scenic hike in the nearby mountains. The crisp air and breathtaking views provided the perfect ending to their trip. They reached a secluded spot with a panoramic view of the surrounding peaks and sat down to rest.

Laura turned to Alexis, her eyes reflecting the beauty of the landscape. "This has been amazing. I feel so much more at peace."

Alexis nodded, pulling her close. "Me too. But now, we need to focus on what's ahead. We'll get through it, together."

Laura kissed him gently, a promise of their shared strength and love. "Together."

They both returned to the hotel to rest and tomorrow morning they will return to Snowmass Village.