Ali Krieger sighed and leaned her head on her girlfriend, Ashlyn Harris', shoulder, taking in the sights and sounds of New York City, NY.
"I love you," Ashyn whispered.
"I love you, too, babe," Ali smiled at her. "Look, the countdown is starting!"
"10..."
"So it is," Ashlyn smiled.
"9..."
"Will you always be with me? Even in the new year?" Ashlyn asked.
"8..."
"Of course," Ali wrapped her hands around her waist.
"You sure?"
"7..."
"Of course I'm sure. I love you, Ash."
"6..."
Ashlyn took a deep breath, her palms suddenly cold and clammy.
"5..."
She got down on one knee and produced a velvet box from her suit pocket.
"4..."
Ali gasped, her heart starting to beat faster and faster.
"Alexandra Blaire Krieger, will you marry me?"
"3..."
"Yes, of course!"
Ali's eyes sparkled with tears as Ashlyn put a diamond ring on her finger.
"2..."
Ali knelt down beside Ashlyn and throwing her arms around her neck.
"1..."
Ashlyn embraced her new fiancée, joyful beyond words.
"HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!"
Fireworks exploded in the sky overhead as Ali pressed her lips against Ashlyn's. Down below, people were cheering and welcoming the new year.
"To us," Ali said softly, pulling back from the kiss.
"To us," Ashlyn smiled. And I hope that's how it will always be...
