A/N: I beg forgiveness for all those that have followed this story. I lost both time and inspiration part way through the story and hadn't been able to complete this chapter until now. There is an epilogue in the works and I promise it will come in a much more timely manner. Regardless I hope you enjoyed the story.

Chapter 5

Arriving at the lake Kurt hopped out of the truck walking around to the other side to open the door for Diane holding out a hand to assist her with her decent. He could tell she was surprised by the destination, but Kurt wasn't quite ready to reveal why he had brought her there, and so he continued to strategically avoid her inquiries.

"The Lake? Are we fishing? I hadn't seen you pack the rods."

"We're not fishing. I have something else planned for the day." Diane tried to mask her relief at this statement. Although she hadn't hated fishing she definitely had no desire to do it today or anytime soon for that matter.

"You'll find out soon enough." And grabbing the picnic basket he had packed for their afternoon he turned and led her down to the boat.

Knowing Diane's fear of water he made sure to grab out the bright orange life jacket from under the seat and before starting the boat helped her tie it around her waist. Without saying a word he pulled out a small camera from the picnic basket that was now sitting in the back and turned to Diane.

"Is this why you brought me out here? To get me into a ridiculous outfit and take a photo to use as black mail?" laughing Diane still made sure to give Kurt a sweet smile for the camera.

Taking the photo Kurt attempted to sound offended with an outraged no. "I just thought I would document the afternoon. And I think you look beautiful and as sexy as ever if I may add."

"You may. Flattery will get you everywhere." Still laughing she took her seat as Kurt placed the camera back in the basket and began untying from the doc before taking his seat at the wheel guiding the boat to more open waters.

They both sat quietly as the boat made its way down the lake. The wind made it difficult for conversation, but when they had reached the no wake zone that would take them down to the cove where the house was they were able to resume conversation.

"I don't recall us coming down here last time."

"That was because we didn't" Kurt replied in his usual matter of fact tone.

"It really is beautiful."

"It is, but that is not the only reason I brought you down here."

"Oh it isn't?"

"Nope."

"Pray, tell me what is."

"You'll find out soon enough." Although unsatisfied with his response Diane decided to drop it and take in the beautiful image Mother Nature had painted.

She was in complete rapture of the scene that surrounded her. The many waterfalls added soft sounds to the serenity that this cove created. Her jaw had unconsciously dropped as she took in the trees that stood tall alongside the narrow pathway adding to the softness of the area. As the waterway opened Kurt observed his future wife as her eyes frantically moved trying to take in all that was before her. There was a certain sparkle to the water as the sun reflected off of the surface of the lake that made the entire scene look as though it was that from a dream. Not 5 minutes later they had reached the back of the cove and Kurt began pulling up to the small dock. Turning off the engine he quickly jumped onto the dock, pulling the rope and boat close to the dock before tying the boat up. Once it was secure he held out his hand to Diane without a word.

Clearly curious she took his hand and before she had an opportunity to inquire about what they were doing Kurt took her arm in his and began leading her to the small home that stood near.

"Kurt?"

"Yes?"

"What are we doing here? Don't you think the owners will mind?"

"I really don't think that will be a problem." Kurt replied nonchalantly.

"Oh and why is that?" Diane remained apprehensive.

"Well that would probably be because we are the owners." Kurt quickly pulled out a set of keys and unlocked the small green door that led to the inside of the home.

"What? When did you buy a house?" Diane was clearly stunned

"When you were in DC. It isn't quite final yet. I wanted you to see it first of course."

"I don't know what to say. I am stunned."

"Don't say anything yet. Explore and tell me what you think of the place. If you like it I have some plans for renovations and you would have complete control over paint and furniture."

"I already love it Kurt, but by all means lead the way, I would like to see the rest of the house." She smiled up at him as Kurt grabbed her hand and began leading her through the small home explaining in detail the plans he had to update each room and make it a place of their own.

It was clear that Kurt loved the place and that was enough to make Diane love it just as much. The beauty of the landscape and cozy feeling of the house just added to the love Diane felt for the home. As the afternoon wore on Kurt returned to the boat to grab the picnic basket and walked back up the dock to see Diane waiting for him at the end a rather large smile on her face. Together they walked to the grassy area under a tree that overlooked the lake. Laying out the blanket Kurt pulled out the meal he had packed for them. They sat together for a long while talking and enjoying the silence of the lake. When they had completed the meal Kurt stood up and held out his hand to Diane.

"May I have this dance Ms. Lockhart?" He said looking deep into her eyes.

"But Mr. McVeigh I don't believe there is any music."

"Oh well we will just have to fix that won't we?" Kurt smiled pulling out a small set of speakers turning them on. Turning back to Diane he held out his hand once again daring her to find another reason to say no.

Having no objection Diane took his hand and allowed him to pull her in close and begin leading her in dance. Moving in rhythm they listened to the symphonic sounds coming from the speakers mixing with the soft sounds of the lake as they swayed slowly. They would stay in this embrace as the sun slowly set over the lake, each feeling a complete sense of love and belonging. The small lake house became a home in that moment. It was their place, and their place it would remain.

THE END