sweet escape [c.l.]

epilogue

A year later

The crisp mountain air of Andorra enveloped Rory as she stood on the balcony of their chalet, gazing out at the snow-capped peaks that stretched into the horizon. The serene beauty of their surroundings was a stark contrast to the frenetic pace of the past year. Yet, in this peaceful retreat, everything felt right.

Rory heard the sound of footsteps approaching and turned to see Charles stepping out onto the balcony, a warm smile on his face. The sunlight caught the glint of the ring on her finger, a constant reminder of their commitment to each other. They had gotten engaged just a few months ago, Charles proposing in the park where they had professed their love to one another. The engagement was later celebrated in a small, intimate party surrounded by close family and friends. But they wanted to celebrate it on their own in the place where they met.

Charles wrapped his arms around her from behind, resting his chin on her shoulder. "Enjoying the view?" he asked, his voice soft and filled with affection.

She leaned back into him, feeling the steady beat of his heart against her back. "It's breathtaking, Charlie. I can't believe how perfect everything is."

He kissed her cheek and smiled. "I knew you'd love it here. It's the perfect escape from everything."

They stood in comfortable silence, watching as the sun began to dip below the mountains, casting a golden glow over the landscape. The tranquility of the moment was a welcome respite from the whirlwind of the racing season. Charles had continued to excel on the track, and Rory had been by his side every step of the way, offering her unwavering support, now that she had officially taken Alejandro's position on the team.

"Do you ever think about how far we've come since we have last been here?" Rory asked, turning in his arms to look up at him.

Charles nodded, his eyes filled with love and pride. "Every day. I wouldn't change a thing, Rory. You've been my rock, my partner, my everything."

She smiled, her eyes shining with unshed tears. "And you've been mine. I'm so excited for our future, Charlie. I can't wait to see what adventures we'll have together."

He kissed her gently, his lips lingering on hers. "Me too, Chérie. And speaking of adventures, I have a little surprise for you."

Rory raised an eyebrow, curiosity piqued. "Oh? What kind of surprise?"

Charles took her hand and led her back inside the chalet, through the cozy living room with its roaring fire and up the stairs to their bedroom. He opened the door to reveal a beautifully decorated room, with fairy lights casting a soft glow and rose petals scattered on the bed.

Rory gasped, her hand flying to her mouth. "Charles, what is this?"

He grinned, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "I thought we could celebrate our engagement properly. Just the two of us, away from the world."

Her heart swelled with love as she looked at the man she was going to marry. "It's perfect," she whispered, wrapping her arms around his neck. "Thank you, Charlie."

They spent the evening wrapped in each other's arms, reminiscing about the past year and dreaming about the future. As they lay together, the fire casting a warm glow over their intertwined bodies, Rory felt a sense of contentment she had never known before. They were building a life together, one filled with love, adventure, and endless possibilities.

The next morning, they woke to the sound of birds chirping and the sun streaming through the window. Charles turned to Rory, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "Good morning, mon amour," he said, his voice still husky with sleep.

She smiled, snuggling closer to him. "Good morning. I love waking up next to you."

He kissed her forehead. "And I love waking up next to you. Forever."

As they lay there, basking in the warmth of each other's love, Rory knew that no matter where life took them, they would always have each other. Their journey together was just beginning, with the wedding planning her mind was always wondering what their future would look like and she couldn't wait to see where it would lead.

In the quiet serenity of Andorra, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the love of her life, Rory felt truly at home. And she knew that as long as they were together, they could face anything that came their way.