A/N: Once again Shipsterella has provided a Tumblr prompt, this time she apologised in advance but it didn't stop my muse from stomping her feet when I tried to tell her no.

Once again it is from a Reedsy prompt:

"I'd like to buy a plane ticket to your furthest destination today."

What if, after leaving Miranda in Paris, Andy impulsively decides she has to get as far away from her as possible? Where will she wind up? Will Miranda try to track her down? Will she follow her? Will they declare their undying love for one another and live together happily ever after?

Disclaimer: I own nothing belonging to The Devil Wears Prada. These characters belong to the original author and the 20th Century Fox.

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After lunch was eaten, Miranda had made enquiries into staying at the Sheraton for the night and within 15 minutes they were installed in a King Suite with promises of a stunning ocean view that could be seen from a balcony. The front desk had been reluctant to provide Miranda with a suite until she waved her JP Morgan Chase Palladium Visa card at them and they observed her name emblazoned on it. The hotel staff requested time to ensure the suite was ready, which Miranda granted and they made their way back to the car to take advantage of the Valet Parking and to get their bags.

On their return, the reception desk had someone walk them through the hotel towards the elevators. Miranda smirked as Andy's jaw dropped. The hotel was decorated in a modern style. It was clean and airy, filled with local artwork. The elevator offered an amazing ride, including the glass doors and panoramic windows to the outside.

Stepping into the room Andy was amazed to see the living area had floor to ceiling windows, comfortable chairs and couches and a large flat screen on the wall. Looking out of the window onto the balcony she noticed two comfortable reclining deck chairs. Dropping her rucksack and Miranda's Gucci holdall, she entered the bathroom and grinned as she examined the marble walls, separate bathtub surrounded by mirrors and the large rain shower as she stepped back out she heard the bellhop advising that they offered a noon checkout. Miranda offered a tip, and he left them alone.

Miranda smiled and stepped past Andy to open the door leading on to the balcony, enjoying the warm breeze she stepped on to the balcony and leaned heavily against the rails, Andy watched as she tilted her head towards the sun and sighed.

Andy stepped up behind her and Miranda was stunned when Andy's warm arms wrapped themselves around her waist and her chin rested on her shoulder. "I am a little underdressed for this place, Miranda." She whispered.

"Ridiculous, you look beautiful," Miranda reassured her as she turned in Andy's arms. "I believe I want to watch the sunset from here, just like this."

"You're on, lady." And whispered, offering the woman in her arms a gentle smile. "I'll just put our stuff in the bedroom and we can head to the beach. or we could explore the pools here at the hotel."

"The beach sounds perfect, Andréa." Miranda raised her hands and untied Andy's hair before running her fingers through it. Andy hummed and her eyes closed as a lazy smile erupted on her face. "I've wanted to do that for a long time. It amazes me I can do so."

"Anytime, my love," Andy whispered. Miranda's soft lips on hers had her eyes opening wide, but she returned the gentle press of lips without hesitation before Miranda stepped to the side and out of her embrace.

"Now, I shall just grab my beach gear and..." She saw Andy grinning at the explanation and rolled her eyes. Moving to where Andy had left their bags, Miranda picked hers up before moving to the bathroom

Andy was already wearing her bathing gear under her shorts and t-shirt. She looked into her bag and decided against putting on her tankini top, realising she wanted to see Miranda's reaction to her in her bikini top, with the matching bottoms. Movin from the living area with her rucksack she was stunned. Once again the room offered floor to ceiling windows against two walls. There was a smaller flat screen in the corner of the room, and a complimentary bottle of champagne sat in an ice bucket.

Grabbing the bottle she moved out of the room and placed it in the small mini-bar fridge before stalking through to the bedroom and rummaged through her rucksack. Kicking off her sneakers and socks she changed from her Nike's into her flip-flops and pulled her spare clothes and a small toiletry bag out of her rucksack, she laid the clothes neatly on a couch on the sofa opposite the very large king-sized bed, leaving her baseball cap, beach towel, sunscreen, camera and wallet in the bag.

Miranda stepped from the bathroom moments later wearing a stunning azure one-piece. She had covered her bottom half with a turquoise tie-dye sarong and had some beautiful Jack Rogers Navajo style-sandals on her feet. Andy stopped what she was doing and gaped. "Wow." She husked, her mouth dry.

Miranda looked at the young woman, confused why she wasn't in her beachwear. "Why aren't you changed? I advised you to bring swimwear,"

"My bathers are under my clothes." Andy grinned.

Miranda handed Andy her cell and a beach towel and grabbed two bottles of water from the mini-bar as she placed them in her bag neatly. As Andy zipped up the bag and hoisted it on her shoulder Miranda held her hand out for Andy's. "Come along, my darling." Entwining their hands Andy let Miranda pull her through the suite and through the hotel.

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Miranda decided there was just something quintessentially romantic about the beach. Maybe it was the soft touch of the ocean breeze, gently blowing upon her face and through her hair. Perhaps the crash of the waves that somehow washed away her stress. She was enjoying the soft sand that enveloped her bare feet as they walked to find the perfect spot, soothing her ravaged soul.

They walked hand in hand, at the edge of the shore, enjoying the sensation of the icy water as it ran over their toes, talking softly until they reached a quiet spot and laid out their towels to enjoy the afternoon sun. Miranda sat carefully and pushed her sunglasses slightly down her nose to watch as Andy stripped efficiently down to her bathing suit. Her breath caught at the expanse of slightly tanned, toned leg that came into view.

Tearing her eyes away she moved her sunglasses back up her nose and looked out at the horizon. Contemplating the shades of blue flowing together, aquamarine, sapphire, cobalt, the colours she had learned to decipher to become the best. Suddenly the differences seemed clearer, easier to identify. The water's around them were calm, lapping gently onto the beach in a steady rhythm she found soothing. The sunlight danced on the water, causing it to sparkle like an array of precious gems.

The movement next to her caught her attention, and she allowed her eyes, behind the shades, to roam freely once again over the expanse of bare flesh on show. Andy's stomach was surprisingly toned, her hips curvy, as they should be and her breasts full, yet not overly large. Miranda had seen many beautiful women over the years, in varying states of undress, but this woman laid out beside her had been the one to captivate her. She was glorious, inside and out, and her figure was divine, an embodiment of pure femininity.

Andy leaned on her side and trailed the tips of her finger over Miranda's bare arm. "I think before I settle here I will brave the water. Are you coming?" Andy smiled softly at the shake of the head, showing Miranda's disinclination. "Okay, I'll be back shortly."

Miranda watched as Andy stood and threw her sunglasses on the towel. She ran towards the water and launched herself forward squealing and laughing until the cold water stole the breath from her. Miranda watched her hold her nose and submerge herself, her hair flowing out behind her as she acclimatised, before disappearing entirely.

She became worried when Andy still didn't break the water. Standing, she untied her sarong and stepped quickly to the edge, hissing again as the cold water trickled over her feet. Stepping further into the water, her breath caught when the water hit her ribs. "Andréa, my darling." She called. She caught a brief movement in the water but then there was stillness all around. Taking another step she gasped as a hand encircled her ankle and she flailed, landing inelegantly and squealing as the cold water surrounded her.

Strong arms surrounded her until she found her feet and Andy laughed hard as Miranda spun around, letting her hands arc through the water and splash her with a large amount of seawater. "Oh God, you should have seen your face." Andy laughed even harder.

"You frightened me," Miranda stated as she swept her hands once again and it hit Andy in the face with it. Andy continued to laugh hard as Miranda continued to flick water at her as she stepped closer.

Andy pounced and pulled Miranda flush against her causing her breath to catch. "God, you're beautiful when you're mad," Andy told her.

"I'm not angry with you, darling." Miranda put her arms around Andy's neck. "Being with you, creating these memories, they will stay with me for the rest of my life. If all we ever have is this day, I will give thanks for that every single day."

"Mira..." Andy's words were cut off by Miranda's lips on hers, more demanding, passionate and intoxicating than any of the kisses they had shared. Miranda's hands travelled into the back of Andy's wet hair and pulled her face closer and swiped her tongue across her bottom. Andy sighed as their tongues danced.

"Do not make promises you do not intend to keep," Miranda whispered breaking their kiss.

"I can promise you one thing, Miranda." Andy grinned and recited. "I will bring you happy flowers from the mountains, bluebells, dark hazels, and rustic baskets of kisses. to do with you what spring does with the cherry trees."

"Blossom?" Miranda queried breathlessly.

"Yes, amongst other things," Andy admitted blushing. "For me it means acceptance, eternal love, making each moment appear as if it's our first and making you, as the person I love, happy."

Miranda looked into Andy's eyes and recognised the truth behind the words. She was fascinated by this woman and marvelling over the strength of her feelings. She was awed by the ease Andy displayed them and swore to herself she'd try to do the same. "You do, my darling."

"Come on, we'll head back to the towels and I'll smother you with sunscreen." Andy offered her hand and found it grasped firmly in Miranda's.

As they entered the shallows, Miranda let go of Andy's hand and offered her a playful smile. Taking a few steps away she spun on her heel and kicked water at the brunette.

As sand and icy water hit her chest, she gasped and looking at the older woman saw her trying to fight her laughter. "Lady, you are so going to pay for that." Andy threatened playfully stalking forward. Another splash hit Andy's neck and jaw and she growled.

Miranda spotted the brunette stalking her, a wide grin on her face and mischief lighting her eyes. She ran through the shallow water, her low laughter making Andy's heart soar. She heard the taunting words flung into the air. "Move at a glacial pace, darling. You know how that thrills me."

Andy let out a loud peal of laughter, giving Miranda a small head start. She gave chase, her long legs kicking water forward and occasionally hitting the editors legs and back as she laughed joyfully. Andy didn't stall as Miranda stopped, spun around and kicked water in her general direction. Andy just laughed harder as the water hit her and returned the favour. They spent time chasing each other in the shallows kicking water and delighting in the moment of nonsense they were sharing as some people stopped to watch them.

Andy's arms snaked around Miranda's waist as she moved to dodge the brunette, using it to pull the older woman close she bent, scooping Miranda into her arms, with the other arm under her knee. Andy laughed at Miranda's squeal of surprise and cradled her against her chest before heading out into deeper water. "Now, should I dunk you?" Andy asked teasingly.

"Don't you dare," Miranda stated, delighting in the sparkle of joy in the young woman's eyes and amazed by the knowledge she had put it there.

"Well, maybe I should just keep you here and hold you close to my heart." Andy looked down into Miranda's eyes and saw them soften. Bending her head she caught Miranda's lips in a soft kiss which she let Miranda deepen, as once again she twined her fingers through the back of her hair.

"Close to your heart is the perfect place to be." Miranda husked as she broke their kiss. "Now are you going to carry me to the beach or will you let me walk?"

"I think I will carry you a bit longer, love," Andy whispered as she moved smoothly through the water and onto the shore. She let Miranda down and the older woman's arm came around her waist, offering a reassuring squeeze. Andy's arm draped comfortably around Miranda's shoulder and they walked back to their towels, finding that while they were gone a few more people were dotted around.

A well-known voice caught Andy's attention, and she squinted up into a familiar grinning face surrounded by tortoiseshell shades. "Those were some smooth moves, Six."

Andy shook her head as Miranda went tense in her arms. "Nige, what the hell are you doing here?"

"Well, Anne thought it would be a great idea to come to the beach. So we rocked up at the Hostel and coerced Sofia into taking the day off to bring us. We went to a few of the beaches further north but they weren't suitable for swimming due to the riptides and Anne was recognised once or twice. So Sofia suggested this beach and..." He spotted Miranda's pursed lips and stopped talking and caught her eye. "...You looked good out there, Miranda. And what happens here, between you and Six, it will go no further, I promise you that." He looked away, suddenly embarrassed. "It makes my heart smile to see you so happy and carefree, my friend."

Miranda sighed and relaxed. "Where are the ladies?"

Nigel waved in the direction of the beach kiosks. "Grabbing ice-cream and cool drinks."

Miranda nodded and released her arm from Andy's waist, instead, capturing her hand. "You mentioned something about sunscreen." Andy looked down to witness Miranda's smirk and grinned.

"Yes, Miranda." She sat down at the edge if Miranda's beach towel and patted the space between her legs with one hand as the other grabbed her sunglasses and pulled her bag closer. Looking down her fingers caught the cap of her sunscreen and she pulled it loose.

Miranda sat upright between Andy's legs and hissed as the cold cream hit her shoulders. but hummed as Andy's warm hands massaged the sunscreen into her neck and shoulders "You've already gone a little pink." Andy whispered softly. "This will guarantee you don't burn."

Anne and Sofia flopped down next to the two women, Sofia commandeering Andy's beach towel as Nigel pulled their things closer. "So what have you two been up to, apart from frolicking in the icy Pacific?" Sofia asked curiously.

Andy continued to massage Miranda's neck and shoulders as she relaxed into her touch and explained softly about their time in Valparaíso and finding the beach. Sofia and Anne wore soft smiles as she explained about what they'd seen, and their time at La Sebastiana. "It seems like a romantic day. Lucky Miranda" Anne looked around Sofia and grinned.

"I think I'm the lucky one," Andy muttered.

"It has been a wonderful day," Miranda stated softly as she leaned further into Andy's arms, resting her head on the brunette's shoulders. Andy stopped massaging and wrapped her arms loosely around Miranda. Raising her head slightly Miranda whispered. "Your turn next. I do not want you burnt."

Andy shuddered at the words and placed a kiss on Miranda's cheek. "Okay." She agreed.

"Switch," Miranda commanded throatily.

Andy untangled herself and stood, stepping to the side to make her way in front of Miranda as she scooted back. She looked down at Miranda as she patted the space in front of her. Andy sat, legs outstretched, in front of the older woman. Miranda took Andy's hair tie from her wrist and put her hair up in a loose bun. Putting the sunscreen in her palms, rather than on Andy's bare skin, she rubbed from the back of her neck to her shoulders and arms, applying more cream as required.

Andy could feel herself perspiring at the touch, the warmth of it had her blood singing. Her chest was flushed and her breathing was becoming ragged. She was grateful she had hidden her eyes behind her shades, she knew they would show her desire rocketing at the soft touches.

"Lean forward." Miranda husked.

Andy leaned forward and welcomed the soft hands on her lower back. Teasing touches that had her squirming as Miranda trailed her fingers up Andy's sides. She couldn't help but giggle at the ticklish fluttering of Miranda's fingers on her skin, squirming until Miranda placed her full hands on her hips. "Will you stop wriggling?" Miranda whispered in her ear, fighting off her amusement at Andy's antics.

"Sure, when you stop tickling me." Andy kidded.

Miranda's smile lit up her face and she leaned in to whisper. "You have not seen what I can do yet, my darling."

Andy's breath caught at the teasing words. Turning her head she ignored the shocked looks as she brushed a kiss on Miranda's lips. "I look forward to finding out. Now give me that sunscreen and I'll do my front."

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The sounds of the ocean hitting the rocks below them had lulled them into silence as they sipped champagne and watched the horizon. The Pacific Ocean was tinted crimson and gold, clashing with streaks of blue under the early evening sunlight and it sparkled like a million jewels. The sky was ablaze with colour. Vermilion, fiery orange, ocher and indigo, as the sun slowly inched beneath the ocean.

Wrapped around Miranda on one of the reclining chairs, Andy was stunned by the beauty of the moment and feeling a contentment she had rarely experienced. The wind whispered through their hair and caressed their skin. Placing a kiss on Miranda's cheek and watched as Miranda tilted her head allowing her better access. As she nuzzled into Miranda's jaw, Andy reflected on the rest of the day.

After laying on the beach for almost two hours talking and laughing with the others, they bid goodbye to Sofia, Anne and Nigel. Miranda had pulled Nigel to one side and spoken to him briefly before giving him a hug and a kiss on his cheek. They walked hand in hand back to the hotel, stopping briefly for Andy to brush the excess sand from her skin and put her shorts and t-shirt back on.

Upon re-entering the hotel they moved to the outdoor pool and settled there, sometimes swimming but mainly lounging by the pool bar that faced the ocean. The pool was filled with salt water, much to Andy's delight, and the bartender serving them cool drinks advised them there was also a natural ocean pool, made of rock and filled with the icy waters of the Pacific. She laughed loudly when Miranda muttered she'd had enough icy water for one day. They shared light conversation, getting to know each other better.

Just before sunset, they returned to their suite, Andy showered first, followed by Miranda. They had both wrapped themselves in the hotel provided fluffy bathrobes.

Andy had settled into one recliner by the time Miranda came out onto the balcony with the Champagne and two flutes in hand. Stepping between the chairs to take the second recliner, Andy grasped her wrist and looked up at her, her eyes filled with affection. "Sit with me, Miranda." Nodding her agreement Miranda placed the champagne on the floor and sat between Andy's legs. Leaning over she grasped the bottle and poured them each a glass of bubbly. Once she was done Andy pulled her close to her chest and relaxed as they watched the sky change colour.

Miranda leaned forward, pulling Andy from her recollections. She could see Miranda had drained her glass of champagne and was pouring herself another. Miranda turned slightly and waved the bottle at Andy, who nodded quickly although she still had half a glass left. Miranda moved again back into Andy's chest and sipped her glass. They continued to watch the sun drop fully below the horizon before Miranda sighed. Spinning around, she pressed herself against the young woman. "My darling, would you like to go to the Casino tonight? They have restaurants, and there's a club."

Andy hummed, thinking about it. "What about clothes?"

Miranda smirked. "You should look in the wardrobe, my darling. While you showered I some of my things away."

Andy grinned. "I wondered why you had such a large bag. Did you have this planned?" Andy husked.

"No, not at all. Although, as always, I had hope." Miranda admitted. "I wasn't sure how today would go or if this thing between us would progress further than one date. I mean I don't even know how to label this."

"Do you need to put a label on this?" Andy asked curiously.

"I don't know. What am I to you, Andréa?" Miranda questioned.

Andy thought about what she wanted and the future she hoped for. "Well we are seemingly dating, and in true Miranda Priestly style, you have totally blown my mind with today's all-day date. I doubt you could ever match the magnificence of this day." Andy smiled brightly as Miranda chuckled.

"That sounds like a challenge, Andréa," Miranda stated happily.

Andy laughed. "It is whatever you think it is." She caught Miranda's eyes and turned serious. "As to a label, I would like to become your girlfriend, for want of a better word, to work towards being your partner and someone equal to you. And one day, should you choose, and to use Em's words, become the Future Mrs P..." Miranda's lips crashing into hers cut off her words and she moaned into the kiss as Miranda's hands crept up to her jaw and her thumbs stroked her face as their mouths moved. "Mm, Mir..." Andy's moan of pleasure flowed through Miranda's brain. She gentled the kiss, taking her time to bring Andy back to Earth. As she pulled away, she rested her forehead against Andy's, their breathing was ragged.

"Darling, that is what I would also like." Miranda pulled back and caught Andy's eyes. "So officially, for the sake of prosperity, and to give a date to this moment, will you be my girlfriend, Andréa?"

"Oh God, yes," Andy whispered as she stroked her hand into the soft hair at the back of Miranda's neck. "Now, will you show me whatever it is you want me to wear tonight?"

Miranda slid off her knee and offered a shy smile. "Come, my darling. I think I will be the envy of everyone at the Casino tonight."

"It is I who shall be the envy of all, regardless of what I'm wearing." Andy grinned up at the older woman. "I will have the most beautiful woman in the universe on my arm."

"Such flattery. Come along, darling." Miranda pulled Andy from the chair and led her to the bedroom.

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Andy stepped out of the bathroom twenty minutes later wearing a black Valentino sheath, with a garland of petals in the hem. Paired with a pair of Badgley Mischka silver peep-toed strappy shoes, that fastened around her ankle. Looking at Miranda, where she was sat on the sofa opposite the bed, her legs crossed gracefully. Andy smiled as Miranda spotted her, appreciation clear in her eyes. Miranda stood and offered her another glass of champagne and Andy's eyes took in the black Prada pumps and slim fit Lanvin pants and tux style blazer paired with a bright blue silk structured Versace blouse. Items she had seen on the catwalks of Paris the week before. "Oh wow, you look spectacular," Andy stated as she stepped towards Miranda and took the glass from her outstretched hand.

"I knew that dress would look wonderful on you." Miranda deflected Andy's compliment easily, struggling to accept one provided with such blatant sincerity.

"It fits perfectly. As if it was made specifically for me." Andy whispered.

"It was," Miranda stated. "Although Emily got most of the items you were gifted in Paris, there were items, that no amount of alteration, could fit Emily's slight frame. I put them aside. This was to be used for the shoot, Anne was to be photographed wearing it, you have a similar figure, however, I could see no one but you wear this. It was made for you, by Valentino himself. It is yours, Andréa. When you left, your final act in leaving the clothes for Emily, was one of great generosity. It made me very much aware just how remarkable you really are." Miranda smiled.

"So giving my clothes to Em made you realise I'm remarkable?" Andy teased.

Miranda blushed. "Not exactly." She caught Andy's eyes. "The Met Gala..." Miranda swallowed audibly and took a deep breath. "...and Harry Potter." She bit her lip nervously as Andy stepped towards her.

"Those were moments of realisation for me too," Andy admitted honestly. "You whispered a thank you that night at the Gala. I was shocked but also pleased. It made my heart ache you were embarrassed in such a way."

"It was something I should have said more often," Miranda stated.

"Why thank someone for doing a job they're paid for?" Andy asked. Thinking of her words she blushed. "I don't mean that night, deflecting him wasn't my job, but if you had thanked me for other things, the coffee, taking Patricia for her shots, the Hermès scarves or organising your schedule, well, I don't think it would have changed anything. Yes, it's nice to feel appreciated but when you hire someone, you build a business relationship. We are adults, we shouldn't need coddling and patted on the head and told we are doing great. We should have pride in our own abilities, of knowing we are doing a job well." Andy caught her eye. "Do any of the powers that be at Elias Clarke thank you for doing your job brilliantly? No, they try to usurp your position to cut costs. They don't see the rare genius of what you do." Andy saw the tears forming in Miranda's eyes and pulled her into a light hug, careful not to crease the older woman's clothes.

"I must admit, I am surprised by your view. Human Resources start at least one employee appreciation day every year." Miranda told her.

"Oh darn, and I missed it," Andy smirked before her playfulness disappeared. "It was Nigel who made me change my views on things."

"What pearls of wisdom did he impart." Miranda grinned.

"It was after the Miami fiasco when I couldn't get you home. I ran to him and...well, he unleashed tough love. He said, and I quote, 'You have no idea how many legends have walked these halls. And what's worse, you don't care. Because this place, where so many people would die to work, you only deign to work. And you want to know why she doesn't kiss you on the forehead and give you a gold star on your homework at the end of the day.' He made me see the truth. That I had been oblivious to the importance of what you do. The hope you inspire. It made me want to well."

"That was the day of your makeover," Miranda stated, remembering it as if it was yesterday. Her eyes closed as she recollected seeing Andréa the next morning. "You looked stunning."

"Thank you." Andy grinned. "You should have seen Emily's reaction to the lamb-skin leather Chanel boots."

Miranda choked on the champagne she was sipping. "The thigh-highs?" She husked.

Andy's smile widened, and she nodded. "Yeah, Nigel made my first foray into the world of fashion one to remember. I thought Emily would punch Serena for telling me I looked good."

"I should thank him for having you wear them when I was out of the office. It wouldn't do to have been distracted so thoroughly." Miranda licked her lips at the image in her mind of Andy in nothing but a beautiful corset with matching lingerie and the thigh-high boots. Shaking the image from her mind she saw Andy grinning widely and thought, for a fleeting moment, the young woman could read her mind.

"It would have distracted you?" Andy asked, astonished by the admission.

"Most certainly," Miranda admitted. "I'm sure you noticed how I faltered when I saw you in my office that morning."

"I assumed it had surprised you, after all, there was no bulky sweater and hideous skirt ensemble in sight." Andy laughed.

Miranda stepped into Andy's personal space. "I love the fact you can laugh at yourself." She stated softly. "It's such a positive trait, it shows resiliency." Miranda smiled softly as she drained her glass. "Now are you ready to paint the town red with me?"

"Oh God, yes," Andy whispered as Miranda took the glass from her hands and set it down.

"I'm feeling lucky tonight, my darling." Miranda winked at the brunette playfully. "And I intend to make the most out of my luck."

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Andy's eye's widened as they pulled up at the Casino in the taxi the hotel had organised, and she smiled at the Greco-Roman architecture. It was a beautiful building, and Andy found it aesthetically pleasing. Entering the foyer of the casino, she felt like they had stepped back in time. It had kept its 1920's charm which they both expressed their pleasure over. The ceiling lights were muted, allowing the glow of a thousand glowing slot machines to fill the room and Andy looked around to see floor to ceiling windows offering beautiful views of the ocean. Having both been to Vegas they were stunned by this. Casinos were usually windowless, giving their patrons a sense of timelessness, unsure if it was day or night.

The casino was filled with noise, the constant undertone of the slot machines. Miranda smiled softly and moved towards the cashier, holding Andy's hand. "Shall we squander a few dollars on the slots?" She asked.

"Here I was thinking we'd have an exciting game of bingo." Andy grinned as she heard a few British tourists waxing lyrical about the bingo room.

Miranda chuckled. "Maybe a little later." Arriving at the cashier she swapped a thousand US dollars for Chilean pesos. Andy was dumbfounded. "Gracias." She smiled at the cashier before turning and leading Andy towards the slots. They stood side by side at Sex In The City slots and Miranda divvied the money between them

"Miranda, this is too much," Andy whispered.

Miranda rolled her eyes and fed $500 peso coins into her machine.

Realising that Miranda would not respond, Andy followed suit, hitting the Jackpot after a few turns. Looking towards Miranda she smirked as she hit collect and the machine printed her winning ticket. Miranda continued to press buttons, cursing her luck. As she turned away, growling in frustration, Andy placed a $100 peso coin in Miranda's machine and selecting a few options once again hit Jackpot. Miranda heard the noise of the machine sounding Jackpot and spun on her heel. "How on Earth..." Miranda trailed off.

"Just lucky I guess." Andy chuckled as Miranda's wide-eyed disbelief as she clutched her two printed winning tickets, looking down she saw she had won 46,000 pesos. "Come on, love. I'll buy you a drink with the winnings."

"Acceptable." Miranda smiled and linked her arm through Andy's as they made their way to the bar.

Ordering their drinks, two Martinis, Andy pulled money out from her clutch and paid for them, keeping her winnings and the cash Miranda had given her for the slots and the tables. Catching Miranda's eye as the bartender placed the drinks in front of them she smiled. "Thank you for today, Miranda."

Miranda stepped forward and leaned into Andy's personal space. "Trust me, darling, the pleasure is all mine." She lifted her Martini glass and sipped, her eyes widening once again at the strength of the cocktail. "Mm, that's strong." She husked. "Are you trying to get me intoxicated, Andréa?"

"God, no. I would rather have you clear headed." Andy stated. Miranda's raised eyebrows had her backtracking. "I mean...it's not that I have any expectations..." Andy blushed. "...Well, the last thing either of us needs is a hangover as we drive back into the city."

Miranda smirked at the babbling. "Are you quite done?" The amusement in Miranda's eyes took away the sting of the words.

Andy looked down quickly, smiling ruefully. "Sorry." She whispered. "I know how much you hate unnecessary babbling."

Miranda tilted Andy's face up to catch her eyes. "Andréa, never apologise for that, for telling me, in your distinctive way, your thoughts." Miranda offered her a gentle smile. "I missed your chatter last week, after Paris, the sound of your laughter filling my outer office." Miranda swallowed. "I missed seeing your face as you processed my orders. Your eyes speak volumes and...well, they are extraordinarily beautiful. Do not be scared or nervous to tell me what you need, what you hope for."

"How about a few hands of Blackjack?" Andy smiled.

"Acceptable. Lead the way, my darling." Miranda smirked as Andy lightly grasped her elbow and moved them towards the tables, stopping to convert their cash to chips. Miranda's eyes gleamed as she spotted the poker, craps and roulette tables.

"We can play those later. Let's see how our luck runs in Blackjack." They made their way to one machine that gave them chips for cash before moving to the tables. Andy sat herself down at the table in front of the dealer and Miranda took her place at her side. They watched as the dealer hand shuffled three decks and placed them face down in front of Miranda to cut. Miranda did so efficiently and watched as the dealer as he moved the bottom of the deck to where Miranda had placed the top before placing them in the shoe.

"Miranda smiled at the dealer before turning to Andy. "Are you ready, darling?" Andy smiled and nodded pushing 10,000 peso's worth of chips in the betting circle and raised an eyebrow when Miranda doubled her bet. "Go big or go home."

The dealer laughed. "Sí, your friend is right."

Andy grinned. "She usually is." The dealer gave them both two cards face up. before giving himself one card face-up and one card face down, his upwards facing card was a three. Miranda smirked at her perfect 21 as the dealer handed over her winnings.

Andy dithered over her 15. "Hit." She asked nervously.

Miranda looked at her. "Just tap the table twice when you want a hit, Andréa. When you want to stand wave your hand over the cards." Blushing, Andy tapped the table and grinned when she was given a five. She waved her hands over her cards to show she was done. The dealer flipped his hole card, and they saw the ten. Andy smiled softly as he flipped another card down for himself and it was a nine. He was a bust.

They played more hands, Andy had lost some and got two Blackjacks. She had bust trying to take a risk but her bets had stayed at the $10,000 pesos. She chatted in halting Spanish with a server between hands as she did the rounds with drinks, asking about the restaurants and the nightclub on site. She found out Le Barquera offered the best pizza and pasta, or Santabrasa did burgers and steak. The nightclub on site, OVO, played heavy ElecTRONica and was always busy. This made Andy cringe a little. 600 people writhing on the dance floor to noise was not something she wanted to be a part of.

Miranda took more risks in Blackjack, often doubling down, and she won more than she lost. Her pile of chips were piling up steadily and other people had sat at the table hoping some of Miranda's luck would rub off on them. Playing a final hand, she had split the two aces she'd been given, the dealer pulled another two cards from the shoe and she split again as two eights landed. Looking into Andy's eyes she grinned and tapped the table. A ten landed on the Ace card, giving her Blackjack. The dealer shook his head and grinned as people gasped. Paying her out he signalled the other ace, tapping the table Miranda was stunned to see a King land in front of her. She swallowed nervously and gripped Andy's hand under the table. A nine landed on top of her first eight and she waved her hands over the cards, knowing she was better off walking away while she was ahead. Her final card was an ace and Miranda smiled, tapping the table, knowing she could well afford to lose. The dealer flipped a two on her pile and her smile faltered at the 21 in front of her. Miranda nodded at the dealer, offering him a small smile when he paid out on her bets, She swept the chips into her purse before standing. "Buenas Noches," Miranda muttered before turning and stalking towards the bar. Andy waved at the dealer and other patrons and followed, amazed by the events of the last thirty minutes.

Catching up with the older woman she heard her ordering two Martinis before she turned and caught her eye. "My darling, after this I need to go to the cashier." Miranda's hands shook slightly.

"Jeez Miranda, how much did you win?" Andy asked softly.

"I have no idea, but right now it seems like a fortune. These damn pesos confuse me. I mean how can over 600 pesos equate to a dollar. It isn't logical." Miranda sighed, running her fingers through her hair as their drinks landed on the bar.

"Would you like to escape for a while? We could go eat or play roulette?" Andy offered. "Or we could go explore outside the casino."

Miranda took a sip of her cocktail and flinched. "I could eat pizza."She smiled when Andy's face lit up with a bright smile. "I heard you talking to the server, not that I understood much, but I heard pizza mentioned."

"Oh, this is my lucky day. Pizza's my favourite." Andy continued to beam. "About the club, I would rather not go, I doubt very much it would be our scene."

"Mm, acceptable." Miranda stared finishing her drink.

Andy followed suit and placed her glass down. "For some reason, I can't imagine you're a secret electro-head," Andy smirked as Miranda's eyebrow shot up.

"No, I can't say I am, my darling, Electronica has never really appealed." Miranda smiled as Andy guffawed. Unable to resist she wrapped her arm around the brunette's waist and rested her head on Andy's shoulder as they made their way to the restaurant on the second floor.

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They had a quiet dinner, sharing an overly large wood-fired pepperoni pizza and a jug of Sangria. Upon their return to the casino, they found a machine that would covert their chips to cash, Miranda looked towards the cashier, and the queue and sighed. "Will you hold my purse?" She asked. Andy nodded and held the purse open as Miranda placed her winnings into the machine.

The amount threw Andy. "You won $1,850,880. pesos?" Miranda nodded and Andy calculated quickly in her head. "Almost $3000." Andy smiled. "You weren't kidding when you said you felt lucky. Do you want to play roulette?"

"No, would you mind if I returned to the hotel?" Miranda asked quietly.

"No, not at all. Would you like me to get us a cab?" Andy asked softly. She didn't know what was going on in the older woman mind but she'd been become more withdrawn since leaving the blackjack table and having dinner. "I'll just cash in my chips too and arrange..."

"I'll get a cab," Miranda stated as Andy placed her chips in the machine. "You should stay, have fun."

"I'll be right with you," Andy told her offering a smile as she deposited the chips and got the cash. Turning around she saw Miranda walking away and frowned. Grabbing the money she put it in her purse and followed. "Miranda?" She called hesitantly. Miranda continued to walk, her shoulders stiff, as Andy dodged people to catch up. "Miranda, wait." She called desperately as someone barged into her. Her eyes stung from her oncoming tears. "At least have the fucking courtesy to look at me and tell me why," Andy called to her retreating back. "Tell me one thing, was this payback for daring to walk away in Paris? Is that it, Miranda? You told me not to walk away from you, you told me you fucking loved me. What a naïve idiot I've been to believe."

Miranda stalled and Andy saw her shoulders slump in defeat. As Andy caught up with her, she sensed the young woman's presence surrounding her. "It is I who am foolish, Andréa. I love you, it was the truth, but your comments about not going clubbing made me realise just how vast the age difference is. You should be out, dancing the night away, not tying yourself to...Instead of..." She trailed off and closed her eyes as Andy moved around to stand in front of her.

"Miranda, I do not want to even try to dance to Electronica or Techno. That is not my style. When I talked about it, not being our scene I meant it was not mine." She swallowed nervously as Miranda turned her head away from Andy's searching gaze. "Do you want to know what I want to dance to?" Miranda shook her head but Andy continued. "Crimson and Clover, Just The Way You Are or Wonderful Tonight, the original's, not one of the many covers. Or maybe Wild Horses, The Sunday's version, mainly because I've never been a fan of Mick Jagger. Or Dream A Little Dream by Mama Cass, Billie Holiday's I'll Be Seeing You, or Lifehouse's You and Me. I have eclectic taste, which favours songs that offer words that mean something and which is typically organic-sounding. I love Power Ballads, Pop Anthems and Smooth Jazz." She shook her head when Miranda did not react to her words. "Don't walk away from me due to some false belief I need something you think I may miss out on. If I wanted to go clubbing, I would. But I don't, Miranda. I am not a big drinker, although I love a glass of wine, and I'm certainly not a party animal. In fact, this week is probably the most I've imbibed, ever. I am boring., Miranda I am a homebody, I love to sit curled up with a good book, to listen to music quietly. I watch little T.V but I love movies and I like to play board games. Tonight has been amazing, but I would have been happy sat on that balcony overlooking the ocean, with a cup of tea." Andy spun on her heel and made to walk away. Looking over her shoulder she saw Miranda looking in her direction, her eyes reflecting shock. "Goodbye, Miranda. Today is something I won't forget in a hurry." She continued to move, unwilling to let her tears fall when she heard Miranda whimper her name.

As she reached the door, she felt an arm on her bicep and Miranda pulled her to the side and pushed her gently into the wall out of the way of the comings and goings. "What's your favourite song?" Miranda asked.

"Lately it's Otis Redding's These Arms of Mine," Andy admitted. She was confused by Miranda's shifting moods. "Miranda, what was that about?"

"I wanted to give you a chance to walk away from this, it's all moving so fast and..." Miranda bit her lip. "...I don't want to pressure you, or for you to stop doing things because you do not think it is something I would do. Forgive me. I should have just spoken to you, asked you." Miranda sighed.

"And why the interest in my favourite song?" Andy asked softly.

"You mentioned a few of my favourites, Billy Joel, Eric Clapton, Billie Holiday, and now Otis Redding." She caught Andy's eyes. "Your favourite is mine also, Andréa. In fact, it is the song that reminds me of you." Pulling Andy into her arms in a gentle hug she observed the sigh of relief and whispered. "These arms of mine, they are wanting, wanting to hold you. And if you would let them hold you, oh how grateful I will be."

"Mira..." Andy stalled as Miranda placed a finger in her lips.

"Will you come back to the hotel with me, my darling?" Miranda looked into Andy's eyes and saw the confusion. "I promise I will make up for this lapse in judgement."

Andy looked down, and she spotted the flicker of fear and the hope. Sighing she pulled Miranda closer for a moment. "Okay."

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