Martin walked, elated, his fingers intertwined with Louisa's, savouring the release of a million burdens and the unmistakeable feeling of contentment rushing through him. James gurgled, making noises and clenching his small fists in the direction of Martin. Louisa stopped and turned, looking intently at him in that way that set his heart on fire. James wriggled, edging toward his father and Louisa leaned toward Martin, passing the baby into his arms.
Instead of moving away, she edged closer, slipping her arms around his waist and closing the distance between them, her face turned slightly, nuzzled into the crook of his neck. He shifted, tilting his head to the side and kissing her softly on the lips, needing to feel close to her, unafraid at last to show his affection. She leaned into him further then, deepening the kiss and sliding her hands underneath his jacket, running her fingers lightly across his shirt. Martin responded, propping James against his shoulder and moving his hand to her face, running his thumb along the edge of her jaw savouring her lips against his and feeling a little lightheaded at the twinge in his chest.
At that moment, James let out a sharp giggle and they broke the kiss, faces inches apart. Martin felt the tiniest smile tugging at the corner of his mouth, and Louisa beamed, giving their son a tickle. In the distance, Penhale sprinted across the Castle lawns, waving a radio in the air. Louisa reached up and kissed Martin lightly on the corner of his mouth, quietly requesting that he smile more often and Martin took her hand again, gently stroking his thumb along hers. They moved forward, slowly making their way along the cliff top to the car, each burying forever any thoughts of a life spend without the other.