Mac stood by the kitchen window, looking out on a grey misty morning. It was early and beautifully quiet, save for a few distantly chirping birds and the soft tinkle of a wind chime out on the balcony. London mornings were enchanting. She loved living here more than she ever could have imagined. Perhaps it had more to do with the handsome, sleeping sailor in the other room than it did with the city itself, but she loved it none the less.
Originally, Harm had been worried that the gloomy spring weather would dampen her spirits and she'd begin to regret her decision to follow him here, but his fears were soon quieted. She'd adapted quickly to life in London. She loved all of its quaint shops and open air markets, the elegantly dressed people and the amazing architecture. The history of this city was incredible. She felt very lucky that she had this opportunity to live here. Without a doubt, London and she had become fast friends.
Her engagement ring clinked against the side of her tea mug as she lifted it to her lips. The sound warmed her heart, just as much as the tea warmed her body. She hugged the ceramic close to her as though embracing a friend. This was the third morning in a row she had awakened early. The cool, crisp morning air announced the arrival of fall, her favorite season, and beckoned her to arise with the dawn. She couldn't wait to see what each new day held in store for her.
A large hand slid around her waist from behind and she felt warmth on her neck as a gentle kiss made her skin tingle. She pulled Harm's strong arms tightly around her and he willingly took her into his embrace. For a long while they stood entwined, both looking out on the pristine morning. Neither of them said a word. Mac ran her hand gently up and down Harm's strong forearms. After a moment, Harm gently took her hand and held it up, gazing at it.
"You know, you look good wearing my life savings."
Mac giggled and shook her head in mock scolding.
"I told you not to spend so much. I would have been just as happy with a ring half this size. Not that I don't love it," she added quickly.
"Only something spectacular would do for a woman as beautiful as you, Mac."
Mac blushed at the compliment.
"Besides," Harm added. "You did wait almost ten years for that ring. With that much anticipation, it better damn well be impressive."
Satisfied she told him, "I couldn't love anything more."
She turned in his arms.
"Nor could I," he said as he touched her face. She kissed him tenderly, smiling up at him as she pulled him close.
"What are you doing up so early?" He asked her after a pause. "Is everything okay? Are you having trouble sleeping?"
"Everything is fine, Harm. I just woke up early, that's all."
"Are you sure?" He asked with concern. "This is the third morning in a row you've been up at the crack of dawn."
"I'm sure," she said with a smile.
Standing on her tip toes, she placed a soft kiss on the tip of his nose. They broke apart and she walked over to the stove to pour him a cup of tea. Sitting down at the table, he watched as she bustled happily about the kitchen.
"So, are you excited about this afternoon?" Harm questioned.
Mac paused for a moment, then gave a hesitant, "Yes."
"Are you sure?" Harm probed. "That wasn't very convincing."
"I am excited," she said more decidedly. "It's just that I'm trying to be a bit cautious."
She looked up from the tea kettle she'd been busying herself with. "I just don't want to get my hopes up too high. What if they tell me there's nothing more they can do?"
The look on her face was heart breaking. Harm stood again and walked over to her. Taking the tea kettle from her hands, he set it back on the stove.
"Listen to me, Mac," he said taking her face in his hands. "Nothing is ever hopeless. If there's any small chance, any at all, we're going to pursue it. Don't give up before we've even begun. Have faith. Good things are in store for us. I promise."
"How can you be so sure?" She asked.
"Because I feel it here," he said and he touched his hand to his heart.
"I don't care about the statistics. I know in my heart that this is going to happen for us. It's our turn for happiness, Mac."
She paused for a moment, taking in the certainty of his expression and the conviction in his voice.
"I love you Harmon Rabb. You always know the right thing to say."
"Well, I meant every word of it," he said brushing her hair away from her face.
"Now what do you say we stop all this serious talk and have some breakfast? The bakery around the corner should be open by now and they do have the best scones in the city."
"You always know how to cheer a girl up, don't you?"
"Only my girl," he grinned.