Frost glittered like diamonds on the ice bound lake and as the first fireworks exploded those sparkles were transformed into every color of the rainbow. The room also exploded with cheers and enthusiastic wishes of "Happy New Year." There was an exception...a couple standing next to the french doors only had eyes for each other. The ruggedly handsome male rested his hands lightly on the waist of the stunning redhead who had looped her arms around his neck. No words were necessary, their eyes said it all...his intense and wanting, hers soft and caring, both expressing one thing...their love and need for each other.

Slowly his hands moved away from her waist, gently cupping her face. Her lips were already parted waiting for his kiss. Her heart skipped a beat as soon as she felt his breath caress her face and when she felt his tongue begin to trace her lips, her soft moan could not be suppressed. Oblivious to their guests, he deepened his kiss – his hands at her lower back, drifting downward to pull her even closer. She sighed as his touch. His embrace, his kiss evoking a precious memory...the memory of their first kiss in the rain when they were shy and tentative with each other.

Reluctantly they parted, perhaps finally realizing that they were not alone. Julia rested her head against Barbie's shoulder, just as she did on that night so many months ago. They were free of the dome now and secure in their love for each other but she would never forget that night. She would never forget the attraction she felt that would not be suppressed, that despite what she had learned about his past, she sought him out and he had welcomed her without question.

Julia lifted her head smiling a bit ruefully. "I do believe we're neglecting our guests."

He laughed softly still holding her close as if he were loath to be apart from her. "I think our guests are used to us drifting away but we could ask them to leave. Then I could wish you a Happy New Year my way." His breath caught in his throat seeing a soft blush begin to cover her face as she bit down on her lower lip, her eyes reflecting her desire.

He would never take her for granted. He often wondered what would have happened if she had not come looking for him that night. Would he have made the first move? There was no question that he felt an irresistible attraction to her but even now he could not say that he would have had the guts to pursue her. His eyes grew darker with a softness that reflected his overwhelming love for the woman who taught him how to be a better man.

"Julia, marry me." His voice was urgent as he stroked her cheek gently.

"I am, I will. I said yes and haven't changed my mind."

"Yeah I know you did, but marry me now – tomorrow. I don't want to wait any longer to give you my name. Will you?"

Julia smiled before leaning in to press a soft kiss against his lips. "Of course I will. I love you and while a piece of paper won't make this any more real or special, I must say that being known as Mrs. Barbara has a certain appeal."

"It appeals to me too. Thank you, Julia."

"You're welcome. By the way, handsome...having our New Year's celebration at your family's lake house was pretty genius. Fireworks were a nice touch, even though we missed most of them."

Julia turned so she was facing the french doors, her back against Barbie, her eyes gazing on the tranquil, frozen lake. She felt his arms close around her, felt his chest rumble as he spoke . Baby, I liked the fireworks in here much better."

"I can't lie...so did I."

They stood there for a moment, content to be together, thankful that life was once again normal. Barbie gently turned Julia so they were eye to eye. "Let's keep this a secret, OK? Let's go away tomorrow and find a nice place to get married, just the two of us."

"That sounds amazing. I'd love to do that and then later we can have a party to celebrate with everyone. Maybe on Valentine's Day." She reached up to trace her thumb against his soft whiskers, a soft smile lighting up her face. "Happy New Year, Barbie...I love you."

"Happy New Year, Julia...I'll love you forever."