Epilogue
Eleanore laid in bed as she stared at the ceiling, thoughts turning over in her mind. After verbally destroying Smithson Utivich's grandmother, Eleanore did a lot of inner searching. The room was still, decorated in an European fashion. Eleanore could always smell fresh roses, which Smithson bought for Eleanore weekly. After Smithson talked to his commanding officer about Eleanore's situation, they were given a large sum of money to make sure Hugo was well taken care of. Smithson would buy Eleanore small gifts on occasion and took unbelievably good care of Hugo.
Eleanore turned on her side and looked at Smithson, resting on her elbow. She was watching his chest rise and fall, the soft curls of hair brushing against the blanket. He was so kind to her and Eleanore had yet to repay him. Smithson was small but had an enormous heart. Eleanore touched his sleeping face, waking him from his light sleep.
"Is Hugo crying again?" His voice was tired as he turned to look at Eleanore. Eleanore shook her head and smiled at him.
"There's something I've been meaning to tell you, Smithson." Smithson rubbed his eyelids before looking up at Eleanore who was propped up beside him. Eleanore gently moved down to him, kissing his soft lips. The kiss was innocent and gentle, causing Smithson Utivich to stop breathing. She raised up and grinned at the complete shock on his face.
"What was that for?" His voice seemed more awake as his eyes searched hers.
"I love you, Smithson Utivich. It's hard to explain, but I'll try my best. I loved, and still love, Hugo very much and I'd be lying if I said I didn't think of him everyday. To be truthful, he will never leave my heart for as long as I live. But you showed me such kindness for these last eight months and I just now realize that I love you Smithson. I love you so much and I'm sorry I didn't tell you before now... I'm still recovering from the loss but that doesn't mean I should suffer for the rest of my life. I'm ready Smithson... I'm ready for happiness." Eleanore stared into his eyes, the grin slowly disappearing from her lips. Eleanore's eyes moved down, over the bridge of his nose, down his cheek, and finally to his lips where her eyes rested. Smithson Utivich took Eleanore's soft chin in his hand and pulled her down, finding her lips once more in the dark night.