The sun was setting over Sydney Harbour, casting a golden glow over the water. Frank Holloway stood on the deck of the Nemesis, his thoughts far away. He had been through a lot in his career, but nothing had prepared him for the feelings he had for Caroline Cox.
Caroline, a crime scene officer, had been a constant presence in his life. They had shared countless moments, both professional and personal, and over time, their bond had deepened into something more.
"Frank, are you okay?" Caroline's voice broke through his reverie. She stood beside him, her eyes filled with concern.
Frank turned to her, a smile tugging at his lips. "Yeah, just thinking."
Caroline raised an eyebrow. "About what?"
Frank took a deep breath, gathering his courage. "About us. About how much you mean to me."
Caroline's heart skipped a beat. "Frank, you mean a lot to me too."
He reached out, taking her hand in his. "Caroline, I don't want to waste any more time. Life is too short. Let's get out of here. Let's elope."
Caroline's eyes widened in surprise. "Elope? Are you serious?"
Frank nodded, his gaze steady. "I've never been more serious about anything in my life. I love you, Caroline. I want to spend the rest of my life with you."
Tears welled up in Caroline's eyes, a mix of joy and disbelief washing over her. "I love you too, Frank. But what about our jobs? Our lives here?"
Frank squeezed her hand, his voice filled with determination. "We'll figure it out. Together. We can start fresh, build a new life. Just you and me."
Caroline looked into his eyes, seeing the sincerity and love there. She knew this was a leap of faith, but it was one she was willing to take. "Okay, Frank. Let's do it. Let's elope."
A wide smile spread across Frank's face. "You won't regret this, Caroline. I promise."
They spent the next few days making secret plans, their excitement growing with each passing moment. On the night of their departure, they stood on the dock, their bags packed and ready.
"Are you ready for this?" Frank asked, his voice filled with anticipation.
Caroline nodded, her heart pounding with excitement. "More than ever."
As they boarded the boat that would take them away from Sydney, they held each other close, their hearts full of hope and love. They were taking a leap of faith, but they knew that as long as they were together, they could face anything.
The boat sailed into the night, carrying them towards a new beginning. And as they looked out at the horizon, they knew that their love was strong enough to weather any storm.
