Beyond The Fine Line

Chapter LIX - Highlands

Afternoon sunlight spilt through scattered clouds, casting dappled patterns over the heather and grass. The lodge nestled at the heart of Glen Nevis, surrounded by rugged peaks, embraced a verdant glen painted in the soft hues of summer. Its stone-and-wood façade blended seamlessly with the landscape, while vast windows framed the emerald slopes and the brilliant summer sky. A gentle breeze carried the scent of pine and wildflowers, and the distant murmur of a stream completed the tranquillity.

The mid-sized SUV, perfect for Highlands' roads, rolled to a smooth stop in front of the lodge, its tyres crunching gently over the gravel driveway. Sean's gaze swept over the well-maintained grounds dotted with wildflowers and tall grasses, framing a well-trodden path winding toward the slopes of Ben Nevis. He could easily picture Jay taking it countless times, heading toward the mountain.

"I can see now why you come here anytime you can."

Jay looked at him curiously over the opened boot doors. "So, why do you think I come here?"

"It's freeing... perfectly secluded, just enough to let you be without worrying about anything."

He leaned on the car, looking at the mountain in front of them. "Pretty much spot on."

"I know," Sean chuckled lightly, helping him unload their luggage, which was mostly his, as Jay had only one leather duffel bag. "Only this?"

"Yeah, everything I need is already here."

"Makes sense."

As soon as they stepped inside, Sean stopped, floored by the contrast. From the outside, the lodge had a rugged, rustic charm, but the interior was sleek and modern yet still deeply connected to its surroundings. Warm oak floors, stone accents, and earthy tones created an inviting, elegant space.

The open-plan layout combined the kitchen, dining area, and living room, with floor-to-ceiling windows framing the mountains and flooding the room with natural light. A stone fireplace stood at the heart of the living area, surrounded by plush grey and forest green seating. The dining table, crafted from reclaimed wood, overlooked the view, while the kitchen blended minimalist design with state-of-the-art appliances.

But what struck Sean most wasn't the design so different from the penthouse. It was Jay's presence in every detail. Framed photos from climbing trips, shelves lined with mountaineering books, and a curated vinyl collection gave the space a personal touch. Through a doorway at the back, Sean glimpsed the practical side of the lodge: a drying room and neatly organised climbing gear. Every element was thoughtful, polished, and unmistakably Jay.

Suddenly, something caught Sean's attention... something that didn't fit this Jay-like environment. "Is this the same coffee machine we have at home?"

"Yeah," Jay said casually. "I asked the management company to install it and stock your favourite coffee."

Sean narrowed his eyes, giving him a side-long glance. "Who are you, and what have you done with my boyfriend?"

"You do realise that the nearest coffee shop is about 8 miles away, right?"

Sean's suspicious expression did a 180° turn, shifting into pure admiration. "You are the best and most thoughtful boyfriend in the world."

Jay shook his head with amusement. "The things you would do for a coffee."

"It's still nothing compared to what I would do for you," he said softly, stepping closer and pausing millimetres from Jay's lips. "So, what is the first thing you do after arriving?"

Before Jay could respond, his mouth was sealed by a slow kiss. It started soft and playful, then deepened naturally, with a steady, familiar intensity that drew them closer without thought or effort.