One Year

by Carzekiel

Just some stories to fill in the blanks of what happened during that one year time jump in the finale. Chapter 5 now up: Carol and Zeke spend some time in Oceanside with their family.

5. Oceanside (September)

One Year

Disclaimer: They`re not mine. Not making any profit with them. Just having fun.

September (Oceanside)

„Hey!"

Carol jumps a little sideways, dodging the frisbee coming her way by a hair. Putting her hands on her hips, she shoots Ezekiel a mocking glare, an indignant pout on her lips. That thing almost hit her! Chuckling silently, he raises his hands in an appeasing gesture.

"Sorry!"

"I get it", R.J. shouts, running off into the direction that the frisbee disappeared somewhere behind Carol with his friend Ezra following on his heel.

"Well, time for lunchbreak anyway, don`t you think?", Jerry chimes in, a hopeful look on his sweaty face.

Shielding her eyes from the sun, Carol looks up at the steel-blue sky. The unbearable heat wave of the past weeks has faded, but it was still pleasantly warm. Estimating that it must be well after noon already, she nods in agreement. Now that Jerry mentioned it, she`s feeling a bit hungry.

"Yeah, good idea."

"Great! I`ll fire up the barbecue." Grinning happily, the big man walks over to a small group of trees with some benches and tables in front of it.

Their group had come to the park for a relaxed Sunday picnic, playing croquet and frisbee and simply enjoying their time together. It`s been a week since Jerry and Aaron came for a visit from Alexandria, accompanied by Ezra and Gracie. The kids have been inseparable since then, spending every single moment of their time together. And even though the adults had work to do, they tried to make this visit as much fun as possible.

And yeah, the kids weren`t the only ones who enjoyed it.

Watching Jerry head to his destination from the corner of his eye, Ezekiel walks over to where Carol is standing. He`s noticing Judith and Gracie whispering to each other, gesturing at R.J. and Ezra to come join them. It warms his heart to see the friendship between these children – they are the reason why they all have kept fighting, why they keep working on building the best possible future for them.

"I really didn`t mean to hit you with the frisbee."

Ezekiel reaches up, gently stroking Carol`s face. She grabs his fingers, turning her head and placing a soft kiss to his palm.

"I know."

Her other arm sneaks around his waist, pulling him a bit closer.

"You`re still gonna pay for it", she whispers conspiratorially, eliciting another, louder chuckle from him.

"I`m sure I will."

Ezekiel bows his head for a quick peck to Carol`s lips, smiling when he feels her reciprocating, holding him to her just a few seconds longer. Their "renewal" of their relationship has only been two weeks ago, and they were still hungry for every single touch or kiss, no matter how innocent.

"Carol?"

Judith`s voice draws their attention. Both, Carol and Ezekiel, turn their heads to face the girl – only to be greeted by four grinning children. Exchanging an amused glance, the two adults take a small step backwards, letting go of each other.

"What`s up, Jude?", Ezekiel wants to know. He has a feeling he already knows the answer to that question.

"Uhm,", Judith hesitates just a second, then blurts out "we wanted to ask you if R.J. and I can go back to Alexandria with Gracie and Ezra – just until summer holidays end? Please? Uncle Jerry already said yes!"

"And my dad, too!", Gracie is quick to add.

"Did they?" Smirking, Carol raises an eyebrow. "Well, I guess we can`t say no, then." Not, that she would have done that, anyway. She looks over at Ezekiel, who is nodding in agreement.

"We were planning on heading out to Oceanside in a couple days, right? If we postpone that a little then we could take Judith and R.J. back home on our way back", he says, addressing Carol.

"Yeah." She looks back at the children, who are happily bouncing on their feet in excitement. "But I`ll still talk to your dads first!"

"Yeah, sure." "Thanks!" "Come on, let`s play again."

Talking all at the same time, the kids then take up their former positions to pick up their frisbee game again. Smiling, Carol looks after them, then turns her head into the other direction.

"I`ll help Jerry set the table", she says.

"Ezekiel, come!", Ezra shouts, waving the frisbee.

"My presence is requested here", he grins.

"Yeah, don`t hit anyone", Carol teases him.

"Funny."

Both smiling, they lean in for a quick kiss before going about their respective tasks.

"The fire needs a couple more minutes before we can start with the hot dogs", Jerry informs Carol when she reaches the tables. He has already placed one of the big jugs with iced tea on one of the tables as well as some cups. Glad to be out of the bright sun, Carol reaches for the tea, filling a glass with the sweet liquid and taking a big sip.

"Did they ask you?"

"Huh, yeah, they kinda ambushed us", Carol smiles. She bends down to pick up one of the two large picnic baskets, placing it on the table in front of her. She unpacks several boxes with various foods – hot dog rolls, sandwiches, veggies, pasta salad and, of course, some cookies. It`s way too much for all of them to eat now, but they will simply have the leftovers for dinner.

"Is it really okay if Jude and R.J. go with you? Did you talk to Nabila?"

"She`s already looking forward to have some help with the little ones", Jerry answers with a wink. "Aaron also said they can stay with him and Gracie. Don`t worry, we`ll take good care of them."

"I know." Carol sits down, taking another sip from her tea. Her eyes drift over to Ezekiel and the kids, the smile on her face deepening when she hears them laugh.

"Bet you`re gonna be glad for some time alone. You know, now that you`re back together again." Jerry`s grinning at her, suggestively waggling his eyebrows. Slowly, Carol puts her cup down, staring blankly at him, pursing her lips.

"We have enough time for ourselves, thank you very much", she states.

It was the truth because basically, her and Ezekiel were living together again. It hasn`t been a conscious decision, it just kind of happened. At first, they actually agreed that maybe it would be better if Ezekiel wouldn`t stay overnight at Carol`s apartment because of the children. But they had dinner together every evening and well – one of those evenings they fell asleep cuddled up on the couch, waking in the middle of the night and simply crawling into bed together as they were used to do. In the morning, they woke up to the sound of clattering and laughter in the kitchen, finding Judith and R.J. preparing breakfast for all of them.

It was easy and comfortable from then on.

Jerry isn`t being intimidated by Carol`s stare, chuckling good-naturedly. In a more serious tone, he adds "It`s good to see both of you happy again. Really."

Not quite knowing what to reply to that, Carol simply nods. Except Ezekiel, Jerry has been the only person who never blamed her for the things she did, the decisions she made. He never made her feel she had to apologize for anything. He had been there for her when she felt utterly lonely, when the worry for Ezekiel, the guilt she felt, almost made her break down completely. Carol is certain that he had done the same for Ezekiel after she left him.

Is there anything in this place that`s not falling apart?

Our loyalty to you, my Queen.

The memory comes out of nowhere. Jerry has proven true to his words through their darkest times. He wasn`t just a friend, he was their family. Now Carol does feel the need to say – well, something.

"Jerry?"

He looks at her over his shoulder.

"Thank you. For everything. But especially for – for being there for Ezekiel when I – you know, when I couldn`t. I don`t think I ever said that."

Swallowing down the small lump in her throat, Carol smiles softly at Jerry, hoping he understands how much he means to her and Ezekiel, how grateful they are to have him in their lives.

"That`s what family is for", he says with an equal genuine smile and a mild blush, before turning his attention back to the fire, feeling a little bit embarrassed. Deciding that the heat is good enough, he pulls a cooling box from the picnic basket and starts putting some hotdogs on the barbecue.

Yeah, he understands.

Carol notices Ezekiel approaching, her heart instantly doing a little jump in her chest. Even after all the years, sometimes it just hit her how incredibly handsome he was. She refills her cup, offering it to him when he sits down next to her on the bench.

"Thanks." He downs it in two big gulps, reaching for one of the cookies.

"Hey, they`re for dessert!", Carol scolds him.

Pouting, Ezekiel looks from Carol to the cookie in his hand and back to Carol. Deciding to risk it, he bites into it, holding the rest into her face as a peace offering. She narrows her eyes at him but takes the cookie from his hand anyway.

"About that Oceanside trip. How about we take the kids with us instead of just picking them up on our way back? We could all spend some days at the beach."

Ezekiel looks at her expectantly, mechanically reaching for another cookie. This time, he pulls back when Carol bats his hand away.

"Yeah, sounds good."

"Good? That sounds like a friggin great idea!", Jerry declares, putting a plate with hotdogs on the table. "My kids have never been to the beach before. Nabila`s gonna love it!"

"Well, then that`s decided. Family holiday!"

The two men grin at each other, bumping their fists. Rolling her eyes, but smiling herself, Carol gets up from her seat, gesturing to the children to come over for lunch.

One week later

A coffee cup in hand, Carol leans against the doorframe of her bedroom, watching Ezekiel sleep with a soft loving smile on her lips. She has just gotten out of the shower, only wearing her beloved frayed shirt. It`s still early in the morning, though not quite as early as she used to get up. Sharing a bed again with Ezekiel had a positive effect on her sleep. And not just because of the great sex. No, she simply felt utterly safe in his embrace, her body relaxing completely.

Next to the bed, in front of the open window, there are two open duffel bags. They would get on their trip out to Oceanside today. At first, they would take the train to Alexandria, spend a night there and then head on from there with horse and wagon. Carol is looking forward to seeing Judith and R.J. again, although (if she was being completely honest with herself) she had to admit that spending the past days alone with Ezekiel really has been nice.

Stirring, Ezekiel rolls to his stomach, one arm reaching for Carol`s pillow, hugging it to him. Drawn to him, Carol places her mug on the nearby sideboard, carefully crawling onto the bed and over him. Placing a kiss on his shoulder, she lets herself sink down on his back, snuggling against his warm skin. Ezekiel hums deep in his throat when he registers her closeness, his eyes opening.

"Good morning", he whispers huskily.

"Morning."

"What time is it?"

"Seven something."

"I smell coffee."

"Mhm."

They lay there for some more moments, before Ezekiel rolls back underneath Carol. She lifts a bit to give him some space, then sinks back down on him. He pulls her close for a leisurely kiss, his hands slipping beneath her shirt, pressing against her skin.

"Ready for some days at the beach?"

Chuckling lightly, Carol strokes Ezekiel`s beard. "Yeah, well – you do know that this trip is not just for fun, right? We have some things to discuss with Rachel and Cindy."

"I know. But there`ll be still enough time to relax a little." He hesitates a second, regarding Carol with a curious expression. "You don`t seem to be too enthusiastic about it, though."

Scrunching her brows, she shakes her head. "No, I am. It`s just – I don`t know, it just feels a bit strange to think of this as a vacation."

Ezekiel nods. Even though they have gotten used to the amenities of living at the Commonwealth and all the benefits it brought to the other communities, going on vacation in a world where the dead were not really dead still was something unusual. But he knows that this is not the only – maybe not even the main – reason for Carol`s reservation to consider their trip a vacation. She simply wasn`t someone who allowed herself to relax easily. Ezekiel also knows that the roots for this behavior were lying in her past.

"Everyone needs a break sometimes", he now says. "And you deserve it more than anyone. You worked so hard to keep everything going, make it better. Don`t have a bad conscience to take some time for yourself."

Smiling, Carol slides a bit higher, her fingers pressing against Ezekiel`s jaw, her face hovering above his. "You deserve it, too."

Descending her mouth on his, she engages him in a slow, sensual kiss, sighing blissfully when his arms wrap tightly around her. Ezekiel rolls them to their sides, one hand tangling in her messy curls. Her left leg hooks over his hip, securing him to her. The bedsheet prevents their lower bodies from touching intimately, but Carol can still feel him through the thin material.

Tempting …

Propping himself up on his elbow, Ezekiel looks down at her with a mischievous grin.

"So, now that we have settled this – did you pack a bikini?"

Snorting indignantly, Carol shakes her head. "When have you ever seen me in a bikini?"

"Oh, well", Ezekiel lets his hand trail down her body, "I have seen you in some rather nice underwear." Reaching the hem of her shirt, his fingers slide beneath, seductively teasing the tender flesh of her bare backside. Leaning forward, he whispers into her ear "and without."

A shiver runs through Carol, her body reacting immediately to his light touch. Grabbing his chin, she directs his face back so she can look into his eyes again.

"You did." She is also whispering, her mouth close to his. "In the privacy of our bedroom. Not on the beach."

Ezekiel chuckles, pressing his lips to hers. He knew Carol would react like that.

So predictable. So adorable.

She allows him to invade the sweetness of her mouth, whimpering softly when his fingers glide from her tush to her breast, gently closing around the supple flesh. Mhmmm. Pulling back reluctantly, Carol cups Ezekiel`s cheek, resting her forehead against his.

"I just got out of the shower", she murmurs.

Ezekiel slightly turns his head, kissing her fingers, not stopping his ministrations on her breast.

"When does the train leave?", he asks, well knowing the answer.

"10.30."

"That`s more than enough time for another shower later." His eyes return to hers, his voice dropping conspiratorially. "We may not find the time to be alone like this for some days."

He had a good point there. Rubbing her thumb over his lips, Carol then draws her fingertips down Ezekiel`s chest, teasing the soft hairs. Pretending to think, she plays with the bedsheet that`s still separating them. He waits patiently, watching her face intently. The corners of her mouth lift into one of those cute playful smiles as she slowly drags the sheet away.

"Okay, I`m convinced", Carol purrs, her hand sliding back up, pushing against Ezekiel`s chest. "But I`m on top."

Grinning, he complies, lying on his back. He certainly wouldn`t argue with that. There`s hardly anything better than watching Carol move in the bright sunlight, succumbing to the pleasure their bodies can give each other. She slides on top of him, settling her groin over his. Disposing her shirt behind her, Carol lets her fingers trail over Ezekiel`s chest and stomach, admiring the sight and feel of his skin, his muscles.

Bracing herself, she lifts, slowly taking him into her body. They have done this hundreds of times and still, it hasn`t lost its magic. They move together, knowing each other blindly, one being thriving for completion.

Making love in the truest sense.

About two hours later, after finishing a late breakfast, Carol and Ezekiel clean up the kitchen together. While Ezekiel is storing away their dishes, Carol rummages around in one of the cabinets where they keep their supplies.

"Dammit", she mutters under her breath, putting some jars and boxes back into the cabinet.

"What`s wrong?", Ezekiel wants to know.

"We just used up the last bread. Thought maybe there`s some in here, but no." Carol closes the cabinet door, turning to Ezekiel with one hand on her hip. "No sandwiches for the trip, then. This is your fault, you know."

Laughing, he leans back against the counter. "How so?"

"If you hadn`t seduced me, I would have remembered to go to the bakery", she accuses him with a playful smirk.

Grinning, Ezekiel holds up his hands. "Guilty as charged." He takes the two steps over to where Carol is standing, wrapping his arms around her middle. "And therefore, I volunteer to take a run."

"Good." She gives him a quick kiss, then shoves him towards the door. "Please also bring some of those bagels that Jerry liked so much. And some cookies or something for the kids."

Grabbing the keys, Ezekiel slips into his boots. "Anything else, my love?"

"No. – Yeah. Maybe some cake for dessert tonight."

"Sure."

When he is out the door, Carol walks into her – their – bedroom, picking up her bag and placing it onto the bed. Turning to the closet, she gets up on her tiptoes, reaching for a box that she kept in the back. Lifting the lid, she takes a quick look, a soft smile spreading on her lips. Quickly closing the lid again, she stuffs the box into her bag, hiding it under her clothes. Pulling the zipper, she places the bag next to Ezekiel`s again.

Inside the box was a surprise for Ezekiel. Finding it had been a coincidence, but as soon as she saw it, Carol knew that she needed to have it. And their little trip was the perfect opportunity. She may not have let it on, but Carol was actually very much looking forward to this vacation.

Returning to the kitchen, she waits for Ezekiel`s return.

Three days later

Leaning against the railing of the small pier, Carol watches one of Oceanside`s fishing boats take off into the early afternoon sun. Her and Ezekiel have spent the morning with Rachel and Cindy, talking about the progresses and plans for their community. Oceanside was the farthest from the Commonwealth and the railroad was not yet a topic. But the roads to Hilltop and Alexandria are kept clear and in good condition to allow the transport of needed materials.

The Commonwealth had been able to provide tools and equipment for some urgent repairs on the boats so that fishing could now be done on a larger scale. Some warehouses have been built at the harbor site to process and store the fresh fish. The trade was going well between Oceanside, Hilltop and Alexandria and everyone was satisfied with the development. Currently the main goal was to expand the western border to gain some land for cultivation and to further the building of accommodations.

It has been a while since Carol last was in Oceanside and the last time, she hadn`t been out at the harbor. Being here brought up some memories she had tried to bury, causing a turmoil of emotions within her. She notices Ezekiel coming over from one of the warehouses, giving him a small smile. He leans next to her, looking out over the ocean. As usual, he picks up on Carol`s mood, sensing that she was trying to deal with something.

He takes her hand, lacing their fingers together. Leaving it up to her if she wanted to talk about it or not.

"I thought I could forget everything out there", Carol says after a while. "To just stop feeling. But it didn`t work."

Ezekiel squeezes her hand, silently encouraging her.

"It all came crashing back down on me once I was back here. The pain and the guilt." She hesitates a moment, then turns her head to look at Ezekiel. "But it meant a lot to me that you were here when I came back. To know that you still cared. I wish I could have shown you how much you meant to me."

"I always knew that."

Now Carol squeezes his hand, nodding. "You always knew me better than anyone else in my life. Knew what I needed. You let me go even though it hurt you. And then you were there for me when I needed you more than ever."

"Your well-being – your happiness – is the most important thing to me", Ezekiel says. It`s a simple fact, something that would never change in his life.

Wiping a small tear from the corner of her eye, Carol whispers "And yours is to me. That`s why I did what I did."

Of course, Ezekiel knows that, too. Letting go of her hand, he puts his arm around Carol`s shoulder instead. Pulling her closer, he places a kiss against her temple. Her arm sneaks around his waist and like that they keep standing there, both watching the calm sea again.

"I love you."

It`s Carol`s voice that breaks the comfortable silence again. Their eyes meet and before Ezekiel has the chance to reply anything, Carol puts her finger against his lips. There`s more she wants to say.

"I always have. I loved you the day I left. I loved you when we met here again. And I loved you when you found me at Daryl`s camp. And on every day after that."

Under her finger, Ezekiel breaks into a smile. "I love you, too."

Cupping his cheek, Carol pulls him close for a tender kiss, then settles back into her former position.

"You thought we would die that night." Ezekiel doesn`t have to elaborate, Carol knows right away that he is talking about their last night at Hilltop.

"I did." Another few seconds pass, then she adds, "And a part of me hoped that we would."

Okay, that was a confession that Ezekiel didn`t see coming.

"Why?"

Carol almost imperceptibly shrugs her shoulders. "Henry was dead. And I just found out you had cancer. I thought – if we died during that battle – at least you wouldn`t have to suffer – and I wouldn`t have to witness it. And the pain would just end, and we could all just be together again."

Ezekiel actually had similar thoughts that night, but he wouldn`t have expected something like that coming from Carol.

"I was under the impression you don`t believe in such things."

She`s looking at him again, her deep blue eyes shimmering. "I don`t. But I wanted to believe it that night."

Ezekiel can`t help but smile, pulling Carol into his embrace. Somehow, he found it awfully romantic.

"You think you could put up with me for eternity?"

Wrapping her arms around him, Carol studies his face, the corners of her mouth twitching a bit. Leaning forward, she kisses him, her lips molding perfectly against his.

"I wouldn`t spend it with anyone but you", she whispers.

They look at each other, both starting to laugh at the same time. Reaching for each other, they kiss again, holding on tight. When they finally separate, Carol disentangles herself from Ezekiel`s embrace.

"Enough sappiness", she says, "let`s go. I think I`ve been promised some beach time."

They make a short stop at the small wooden cabin they have been assigned for their stay to change into some more appropriate beachwear. The cabin is one of a dozen newly built accommodations that had become necessary to house the workers from the Commonwealth, but also because some of the old trailers wouldn`t withstand another winter. It was a pleasant surprise that the cabins have already been provided with power supply and running water. Carol had been especially fond of the old-fashioned wood-fired stove, saying that it reminded her of her grandmother`s house.

"Do you think we should pack something to eat?", Carol asks while she`s undressing.

Ezekiel has already shed his cargo pants, stepping into a pair of shorts. "The way I know Nabila, they brought more than enough. But I can make some sandwiches if you want."

Carol considers his offer for a moment, then shakes her head. "No, you`re probably right. We can take some apples, what do you think?" She has folded her jeans and t-shirt, placing them on top of the small dresser. She hadn`t bothered to unpack her bag when they arrived, now bowing down and putting it on the bed. "Zeke?"

When she looks up, Carol finds him watching her, a dreamy expression on his face. Ezekiel has seen her in her underwear thousands of times and still – sometimes, the sight of her sweetly freckled skin, the soft curves of her body left him smitten, like it was the first time. Carol can feel the warmth of his gaze flutter over her like a caress. Taking the few steps over to where she is standing, Ezekiel gently tilts her chin up, capturing her lips in the sweetest kiss.

"You are so beautiful", he whispers reverently, his lips returning immediately for another kiss. Without saying anything else, he smiles at her, then turns around and leaves the room. Carol looks after him with infinite tenderness, wondering how it was possible to love Ezekiel more with every day, even after all their years together. How she could still be so deeply touched by a simple gesture. Her eyes return to her bag, her fingers secretly touching the box hidden under her clothes.

Her heart takes a leap in her chest, a little nervous excitement bubbling up. Maybe tonight. Or – for a second, Carol considers if now was the right time, but dismisses the thought again. They have promised to meet Jerry, Nabila and the kids at the beach and that`s what they would do. What she had in mind called for a different setting anyway. Quickly grabbing something to wear, Carol pulls the zipper of the bag shut again, pushing it into a corner of the room.

She slips into the loose-fitting, just above knee-length blouse, closing the buttons and fastening the sash around her waist. Foregoing the flowy pants, she decides to go bare-legged. I mean, come on – they were going to the beach, after all. After donning a pair of soft, worn sneakers, Carol joins Ezekiel in the kitchen. His eyes glide over her, taking in her appearance. Grabbing her around the waist, he pulls her against him, stealing another kiss.

"Beautiful!", he emphasizes with a grin.

Chuckling lightly, Carol pushes him away. "Charmer."

When they arrive at the secluded part of the beach that has been declared safe from any walkers and thus clear for sunbathing and swimming, they stumble right into a sandcastle building contest. Apparently, the four older kids have challenged Jerry and Nabila, who are supported by their two younger children, Lily and Jacob. Well, more or less anyway. Little Jacob seems to have more fun destroying what his father and sister are building.

"Jacob, no!", Lily screams outraged, when her little brother once again pushes his fists into her small castle.

"Oh", Carol chuckles lightly, "looks like you can need some help here."

"Yeah", Nabila sighs, "this little fellow has his own mind." She`s struggling to keep her youngest son from sabotaging his sister again.

Sinking to her knees, Carol grabs one of the little shovels. "Hey, Jacob. You wanna help me?" She starts digging in the sand, diverting the little boy`s attention. Lily immediately takes Ezekiel`s hand, pulling him with her.

"Uncle Zekey, help me", she orders. He obeys happily, kneeling down as well and taking the bucket from his best friend`s hand. "Your Majesty", Jerry says with a big grin and a wink, "Princess Lily needs your advice in building the best castle on this beach."

"Ours is the best!", Ezra`s voice pipes up.

"It`s not!", comes Lily`s answer immediately.

Laughing, Ezekiel starts filling the bucket. "We will build the best castle that we can."

For the next half an hour, everyone is busy, even little Jacob is happy with throwing himself at the tower of sand that Carol and Nabila keep piling up for his entertainment. Although she enjoys playing with the little boy, Carol`s eyes return to Ezekiel over and over again. Lily always had been especially fond of him and watching him interact with her stirs some feelings within Carol she hasn`t had in a long while.

During their marriage, her and Ezekiel have long tried to have a child, even though they never told anyone about it. Carol had eventually accepted that having their own baby wasn`t in their book, and she was more than happy that they had Henry. She couldn`t have loved him more if he was her own. But there always was this tiny pang of jealousy and sadness when they heard that Nabila was pregnant. And even now Carol couldn`t help but wonder what it would have been like having a little baby girl.

Ezekiel catches her eye, grinning happily and she smiles back at him. Once more, Jacob vigorously kicks at the sand tower in front of him, losing his balance and unceremoniously landing in Carol`s lap. She picks him up and places him on his feet again, giggling when the little boy immediately throws himself forward into the sand again.

"Oh, I think someone here needs a new diaper", she says to Nabila when the unmistakable smell drifts into her nose.

Catching her son, the younger woman gets to her feet. "Excuse us."

Carol`s eyes return to Ezekiel. He`s still watching her, his face showing a similar melancholic longing as she just felt some moments ago. Well, looks like he hasn`t forgotten, either.

"Auntie Carol, come look at my castle", Lily calls for her attention.

Chuckling, Carol gets to her feet, wiping some sand from her shirt. "Wow, that looks amazing!" She steps up behind Ezekiel, who`s still kneeling in the sand, her hands lightly touching his shoulders. The castle actually more resembles a pyramid, but Lily obviously was happy with it.

"We`re done, too", Gracie says.

And yeah, that castle is indeed very impressive. It has four walls with battlements and watchtowers in every corner, a courtyard and even a moat.

"That is pretty awesome, too", Ezekiel praises the work.

"I think, we won", R.J. declares.

"No, I win", Lily insists feistily, her little hands on her hips.

Her posture and attitude somehow have a striking resemblance with Carol. Grinning in amusement, Ezekiel tilts his head back to look at her, but Carol either doesn`t notice or chooses to ignore him.

"We all won", Judith tries to intervene, throwing a warning glance at her brother. "They`re completely different anyway."

"Judith is right", Ezekiel agrees.

"Yeah, and most importantly, we all had some fun, right", Jerry points out.

There`s some consentient mumbling and nodding and a moment later the children have already set their attention to something new.

"Carol? Can we go into the water?", Judith asks. "It`s safe, isn`t it?"

"Uhm, yeah", Carol hesitates a second, knowing that except Judith, none of the children can swim. "But don`t go too far. I don`t know what the current is like."

"Okaaay!" Dashing into the shallow shore, the kids immediately start splashing water at each other.

"I go with them." With his daughter on his arm, Jerry follows his son and his friends, keeping an eye on them.

"They`re fine." Ezekiel gets up from his kneeling position, standing next to Carol. She`s watching the children with a strange expression on her face, not reacting to him. Gently tugging on her sleeve, he tries to get her attention. "Carol."

Tearing her eyes away from the playing children, she looks at Ezekiel, giving him a small smile.

"Yeah. I was just thinking – Henry was so happy when he saw the ocean for the first time. Do you remember?"

Laughing softly, Ezekiel nods. "He was sitting in the sand for hours, watching the waves roll in."

It had been a sunny, mild October day and they had allowed him to put his feet into the water. After that, Henry was hell-bent on learning to swim – which Ezekiel taught him the next summer in a small pond close to the Kingdom under the watchful eyes of Carol. Taking her hand, Ezekiel squeezes her fingers.

"He`d be happy to see you now. Smiling again."

Even though some tears sting her eyes, Carol does smile. The loss still hurts, but she is grateful that she got to have this wonderful life with Henry and Ezekiel. Taking a step closer, she plants a kiss on Ezekiel`s cheek and then his lips. Some joyous squealing has them turn their heads, both chuckling when they see all five kids attacking poor Jerry.

"Maybe we should help him." Grinning, Ezekiel pulls his t-shirt over his head, letting it drop into the sand. "Come on." He trots into the direction of the water, turning mid-way and prompting Carol to follow him. She hesitates, hands on her hips, shaking her head in mock exasperation. Throwing a look over her shoulder, she sees Nabila with a book in her hand, Jacob lying in her lap, probably asleep.

Oh, well, why not …

She joins the others, trying to hide behind Ezekiel`s back, but getting soaked within seconds anyway.

This was really fun.

Later that night

Carol silently pulls the door of the children`s bedroom closed. She had sent them off to get ready for bed a couple minutes ago, after they had almost fallen asleep on the small porch. The day in the sun and the splashing around in the water has worn them out. When Carol came to check on them, they were already fast asleep. She pays a quick visit to the bathroom, then steps outside again into the mild evening air.

Ezekiel has gathered the deck of cards that was scattered over the table, stashing it back into its box. Now he`s leaning against the rail of the back porch of their small wooden cottage, staring into the distance. There isn`t much to be seen in the dark, but the smell of the nearby ocean is carrying in the soft breeze. Carol takes a moment to watch Ezekiel, her love for him welling up, flowing through every cell of her body.

Today has been emotional. All these memories. But everything was so much easier to deal with with him by her side.

Taking the few steps over to where he is standing, Carol molds herself against Ezekiel`s back, her arms wrapping around his middle. His hands immediately search for hers, holding her close to him.

"Are they sleeping?", he asks.

"Out like a light", Carol chuckles softly. "They had a lot of fun today. I`m really glad we came here."

"Me too." Ezekiel raises one of her hands, bringing it to his mouth for a gentle kiss.

For some moments, there`s a comfortable silence where they just lean against each other. Carol can feel Ezekiel`s steady heartbeat under her palm, strong and soothing. Her eyes close, her nose burying in his dreads, deeply inhaling his scent. Never before him could she have imagined a love, a bond this strong. How lucky they are to have found each other.

Opening her eyes again, she softly calls his name. "Zeke."

"Hm?" His head turns slightly to acknowledge that he heard her.

"Marry me."

Her words flow into his ear, the sound of her voice, so tender, so full of love, making all his hairs stand on end. Turning in her arms, Ezekiel looks at Carol with surprise, his belly fluttering in excitement. He didn`t see that coming. Carol`s face is in the shadows, her body illuminated by the two faint porch lights behind her. But still, he can make out the deep emotion shining from her eyes and the sweet smile on her lips. His own face breaks into a grin, his hands coming up to gently pull her head forward for a firm kiss.

When they part, they still smile.

"I take that as a yes", Carol whispers. Chuckling happily, Ezekiel kisses her again. "Hell, yeah. I would marry you a million times."

"Good." Lowering her gaze, Carol runs her fingertips down the open v of Ezekiel`s shirt, lightly scratching his skin. "Though I guess we are still married … ". She looks back up into Ezekiel`s eyes, sees the infinite tenderness in them, mirroring her own emotions.

"I never stopped being your husband." His voice is a low rumble, seeping into her very being. Nodding, Carol leans forward to capture Ezekiel`s lips again in a soft kiss. He holds her close, his heart beating rapidly under her palm. It`s the truth, he has always considered himself her husband, even when he thought that Carol didn`t anymore. Now hearing that she still considers them married – that she still wants to be married – well, the feeling is overwhelming to say the least.

"I know. You are, but – I feel that after everything slipping our rings back on deserves to be something – special."

"A renewal of our vows", Ezekiel suggests. Again, Carol nods. "Yeah. Yeah, that`s it."

He captures her lips again in a sweet kiss, savoring the taste of her lips.

"I love the idea. We can throw a little party when we`re back home."

Before Ezekiel even finishes his sentence, Carol starts shaking her head, laughing softly. "No, no, no. I`m not waiting until we get back home. Let`s do it here, at the beach. What do you think?"

"Oh, yeah – but", taking her left hand, he laces his fingers with hers, then raises their joined hands, pointedly looking at them, "what about the rings?"

As far as Ezekiel knows, the rings were sitting in Henry`s box back home in Carol`s apartment. He had put his into the box before he gave it back to Carol. At that time, he`d been pretty sure he was going to die, and he thought that she should have it. She never mentioned it, although Ezekiel was certain that she had found it. When they got back together a couple weeks ago, he discovered the box on a dresser in Carol`s bedroom. One night, while she was taking a shower, curiosity got the better of him and he peaked inside. His ring was there – and so was hers, placed on top of a picture of them that Henry took at their wedding. Ezekiel was deeply touched, but like Carol had done, he chose not to say anything about it.

And now here they were, talking about renewing their commitment to one another.

For the second time this night, Carol surprises Ezekiel by reaching into her jeans pocket, presenting him their wedding rings. Seeing the smug expression on her face, a low chuckle rises up in his throat. Clutching her hand with the rings, he releases the other one, pulling her flush against his body.

"I see you planned ahead", Ezekiel says close to her face.

"I did." Sliding her arm around him, Carol holds eye contact, a wicked little smile playing on the corners of her mouth. Time for the final confession. "I even got a dress."

Oooh, Ezekiel`s eyes light up in obvious delight. "Now that`s something. Can I see it?"

Carol lets out an amused little chuckle. "Yeah – when I`ll be wearing it, let`s say – tomorrow evening?"

"We have a date, baby!"

Closing the small gap between them, they press their lips against each other in a passionate kiss.

The next evening

Ezekiel is standing outside their cottage, waiting for Carol. She has ushered him out of their bedroom a couple minutes ago, refusing to let him get a glimpse of the dress she bought. Grabbing their rings from the nightstand and stuffing them in his pants pocket, he relented to her wish, but not before stealing a quick kiss on his way out. Now holding his face into the sun, Ezekiel closes his eyes, smiling to himself.

Carol has indeed surprised him with her proposal last night, in the most wonderful way. Ezekiel hasn`t felt this relaxed, this utterly at peace with himself and the world in a long while. It may have taken them a while, but they have conquered the storm, fought their demons – alone and together – and found their way back to each other. Found their place again with a certainty and clarity that neither of them has expected.

Taking a deep breath, Ezekiel inhales the faint salty breeze of the ocean, ringing distant memories of his own childhood. Nowadays, these memories feel like they`re from a different life. A different world. And yet, even with all the bad things that happened, Ezekiel wouldn`t want to go back. Because this world – as broken as it is – brought him the love of his life, a love he couldn`t have imagined in his wildest dreams. She was worth everything.

The breeze carries noises of playing children and laughter from the surrounding neighborhood, offering the perfect soundtrack to this late summer evening. Opening his eyes again, Ezekiel turns around, more feeling than hearing Carol step outside. The moment his eyes land on her, his mouth goes dry, and his heart starts pounding in a crazy rhythm in his chest. He doesn`t know what he was expecting when Carol told him that she had a dress – but it clearly wasn`t this. Ezekiel is pretty sure that his mind couldn`t have come up with something this beautiful, even if he had tried.

Smiling herself, Carol comes down the few steps, stopping just out of Ezekiel`s reach. She`s giving him a few moments, enjoying the way his eyes roam up and down her body, obviously appreciating what he is seeing. Finally, his eyes come to rest on her face, a look of pure adoration grazing his handsome features.

"Wow, just – wow", Ezekiel manages to crack out.

Chuckling lightly, Carol takes a small step closer. "You`re acting like you haven`t seen me in a dress before", she says in a teasing voice.

Ezekiel also takes a small step closer, his hands reaching for hers. "I`m just – stunned by your beauty. This dress was an excellent choice."

"Thank you." Raising her chin a bit, Carol offers her lips for a kiss, which Ezekiel takes happily.

Admittedly, her reaction to the dress had been just as stunned when she first saw it. It was a couple days ago in Sarah`s boutique. After her first hesitant purchase a few weeks ago, Carol has become a frequent visitor. Most of the times, she was just looking around, not searching for something particular – just having a little chat with Sarah now and then, who she has become friends with. On that day it wasn`t any different. Carol stopped by after work to see if maybe there was something that she might like for their vacation.

A wedding dress was not on her mind, though.

But there it was. Apparently, Sarah had received some new items and the dress was one of them. She had put it on a mannequin, trying to decide where to place it in her little shop when Carol walked in. It was love at first sight. As strange as it may sound – the moment Carol saw it, she knew that this was her dress.

It wasn`t the typical white wedding dress, but more of a nude/champagne-colored underdress with an exceptionally beautiful white floral lace covering. It was floor-length with a deep v- neck and cap sleeves. There was a slim satin band just below the breasts, accentuating the waist. Below it, the material falls light and flowy over hips and legs, feeling like a soft summer breeze.

It was perfect, for this occasion, for this moment in their lives. Just like her first wedding dress has been perfect. In a different time, in a different place.

Breaking their sweet kiss reluctantly, Ezekiel pulls Carol flush against his body.

"Shall we go, my love", he whispers close to her ear.

"Yeah", she breathes out.

With their arms around each other, they slowly walk into the direction of the beach. Focused on each other, they don`t even notice the vehicle a little ways ahead to their right. When they have almost passed it, a familiar voice attracts their attention, making them look over their shoulders.

"Hey, you two want a ride?"

"Elijah! What are you …", before Ezekiel can finish his sentence, a second person steps into their view.

"Lydia!" Carol hasn't seen the girl since her and Elijah left the Commonwealth about three months ago. Even though Carol has visited the communities regularly, and Lydia even has been at the Commonwealth once or twice during that time, their paths never crossed. Seeing her here, now, was an unexpected surprise.

A very welcome surprise.

"What are you doing here?", Carol picks up on Ezekiel`s unfinished question, while welcoming Lydia into her embrace.

In the wake of Henry`s death, Lydia`s presence has been extremely painful for Carol. It was easy to blame her for everything that happened, although deep down Carol knew that wasn`t the case. In her own traumatized state, it took Carol way too long to see Lydia for what she was – an abused child. Abused physically and mentally in the same way that Carol had been abused by her first husband.

And still, even with that knowledge – it was hard to be around her.

Things got a little easier after Alpha was finally gone. And then there was this fateful moment on the cliff that changed their relationship. Even though the following weeks had been hard for all of them and for Carol in particular, she was grateful that Lydia saved her that day.

"We came over from Hilltop with some supplies and we met Nabila earlier. She told us about your plans, and we thought we`d say hi", Lydia explains.

"Yeah, we don`t mean to bother you, but if you like we will take you to your party", Elijah adds, gesturing to the golf cart. Here in Oceanside, these vehicles were a practical means of transportation.

"Oh, come on, you`re not bothering us at all! We would love you to joins us!", Ezekiel exclaims cheerfully, looking at Carol who nods in agreement. "Yeah, absolutely. It`s wonderful you`re here!"

"Are you sure? We really don`t …"

"Yes!" Sensing the young couple`s hesitation out of fear for being intrusive, Carol quickly interrupts Lydia, reassuring them that they are indeed very welcome. "You`re part of the family, we really want you there with us."

Smiling brightly, Ezekiel supports his wife. "And we will gladly accept your offer for a ride."

"Okay, great."

Slipping behind the steering wheel, Elijah waits until everyone is seated. While they get on their way to the nearby beach, Lydia turns around to face Carol and Ezekiel.

"Thank you, for inviting us. It means a lot to me." She hesitates a moment, unsure whether she should go on. "I`m sure Henry would be happy to see you like this. Celebrating love."

Giving them a small smile, Lydia quickly turns back around, not waiting for either of them to reply anything. Things like this still felt awkward sometimes for her. For the longest time, she didn`t have a family, at least not in the normal sense. No love or affection. But she saw that love and affection between Henry and his parents in the few moments she got to see them together. And it makes her happy to know that even with the terrible loss and pain that her mother brought to them, they were still holding on to this love.

In the back, Carol slips her hand into Ezekiel`s, squeezing it. He smiles at her, pressing a gentle kiss on her forehead. "I know that he is", he whispers almost inaudibly.

The drive is short and so just a couple moments later, Elijah parks the golf cart behind one of the dunes. Getting out first, Ezekiel offers Carol his hand, making sure she is not tripping over the hem of her dress. Together, the four of them take the short walk around the dune, stepping out onto the beach. The same beach that Carol and Ezekiel have been the day before. Only that now the view before them was a bit different.

The northern boundary of the natural cove was formed by rocks that merge into a small wood, while the southern boundary was more of a rather flat headland, overgrown with some bushes and reed. The landside was defined by sand dunes, rolling in soft waves along the coast. Other than yesterday, however, there now was a canvas gazebo on the beach. The sides were open and inside there were two large tables with various plates of food on it. Around the tables were some benches and chairs.

Though Carol knew that Ezekiel and Jerry came out here today for some preparations, she is more than just a little bit surprised about the result now. There are party lights all over the gazebo, that will illuminate it beautifully once the sun has set. Carol can also make out some torches in the sand and a couple meters from the gazebo a campfire has been set up.

For the few hours they had, the setting was just – "Amazing", Carol whispers, turning her head towards Ezekiel in awe. "Yeah", he answers, staring at the scenery before him just as stunned. He did help with the major work, but it seems their friends added some lovely details after he left to meet up with Carol. Now, Jerry and Nabila are already awaiting them, together with the kids, all of them wearing a huge smile.

Stepping into the shadow of the gazebo, Ezekiel stops, his eyes slowly roaming over the scenery before him. He`s so deeply touched, trying to commit the picture to memory. There weren`t many people here now, not as at their first wedding with the whole Kingdom. But that doesn`t matter. Those who are here are the most important people in their lives, their family, and Ezekiel wouldn`t want it any other way.

"Wow", he says, momentarily stumped for words. "Thank you for everything that you did here today. And thank you for being here, for sharing this – this wonderful moment with us. I can`t tell you how much that means to me – how much each of you means to us."

Turning towards Carol, he finds her looking at him, her deep blue eyes shining with love and tenderness.

"And you", Ezekiel continues, his voice dropping a notch, suddenly raspy with emotions, "thank you for initiating all of this." He reaches out, one arm sneaking around Carol`s waist, the other one taking her hand into his. In a familiar gesture, he raises her hand to his lips, then places it over his heart. "You`re making me so happy. You always made me happy. I will always be grateful that you found the way into my life – and that you chose to stay. Our life together was the happiest time in my life. My head is full of memories, and I cherish every single one of them. And", he falters momentarily before speaking on, "and even the rough times that we went through, in the end, they brought us even closer together. They made me realize just how lucky I was for having found this kind of love. How lucky I still am. Hopefully, there are many more years waiting for us, many more memories to be made."

Reaching into his pants pocket, Ezekiel fishes out Carol`s wedding ring. While he spoke, his words touched her heart, her soul, her eyes getting all teary. One large tear spills over, running down her cheek. She wipes it away, chuckling shakily, then holds her hand out to Ezekiel. With the biggest smile, he takes her hand in his, sliding her ring back on her finger where it belongs.

"I love you, Carol. And I always will."

Another tear spills over, but this time, she doesn't wipe it away because her hands are busy reaching for Ezekiel` face. She kisses him softly, her lips molding perfectly against his.

"I love you, too", she whispers close to his face.

Taking his hands into hers, she straightens, repeating it once more, louder this time.

"I love you! I love you so much, like I never thought even possible. You completely changed my world. You changed me. For the better. Staying, giving us a chance, was the best decision I ever made. I loved our life, our family. For the first time ever, I knew who I truly was and who I wanted to be. Your wife. And that never changed. You are my happiness."

As Ezekiel did before, Carol hesitates a second before she continues. "I made some decisions that I am not proud of. Being away from you probably was the worst. That`s a mistake I will never ever make again. Life is so precious and getting to spend it with someone you love so deeply is the greatest gift."

She holds her hand out, looking at Ezekiel with a slightly raised eyebrow. He gets the hint, again reaching into his pocket and placing his own ring into Carol`s palm. Holding his left hand up, he smiles at her, his eyes glistening suspiciously.

"Zeke, I am so grateful for you to be my husband." With that, she slides the ring back on his finger.

"There isn`t anything I`d rather be."

They look at each other, their emotions written all over their faces. And then they break into a grin at the same time, reaching for each other. Their lips meet in a heartfelt kiss, their arms wrapping around each other like they don`t ever want to let go again. Both have happy tears running down their cheeks now, mingling, tasting the saltiness on their lips. For some moments, they completely forget that they have an audience. Only when their guests start clapping and cheering, do they separate. With their arms still tightly wrapped around each other, they turn their heads, laughing happily.

"Party time!", comes Jerry`s cheerful voice from the other end of the gazebo.

More laughter from everyone and a second later, music starts playing. Within the blink of an eye, Carol and Ezekiel are surrounded by children, all of them wanting to hug them at the same time. They take their time, appreciating every kid individually. Once they are done and turn their attention back to their adult guests, they are again faced with a surprise.

On one of the tables, there`s now a two-story wedding cake waiting for them.

"But – how did you …", Carol looks at Nabila, completely speechless. While the men have been out here on the beach setting everything up, her and Nabila have been preparing some food together for the party. There`s just no way she could have managed a cake like that after Carol left.

"Oh, I didn`t do anything", Nabila laughs, "I had some help for that."

As she`s not elaborating any further, Carol settles for an embrace. "Thank you. For everything." Another round of hugs follows, this time between the adults. "I`m so happy for you, boss." Carol turns her head just in time to see Jerry pull Ezekiel into a big bear hug, slightly lifting him off the ground. Ezekiel`s melodic laughter fills the air and Carol can`t help but giggle herself, once more absentmindedly wiping away a stray tear.

"Okay, who wants a piece of cake?"

There`s general cheering and clapping, indicating that everyone does.

"Alright!" Stepping around the table, Carol picks up the big knife, offering it to Ezekiel. He takes it from her hand with a raised eyebrow, chuckling low in his throat when she puts her hand over his. Before cutting the first piece, Carol admires the beautiful cake. Both layers are covered with white frosting. Around the smaller top layer there is a ring of red rosettes; more rosettes form a red heart on top of the cake. They cut the bottom layer first, discovering that there`s a chocolate cake underneath the frosting. Switching to the top layer for the next piece, they find it to be a blueberry cake.

When all their guests have been provided with a piece of the delicious looking cake, Ezekiel cuts off an extra large piece of the chocolate layer for themselves. Sneaking his arm around Carol`s waist, he pulls her closer, offering her the first bite. Closing her eyes, she opens her mouth, savoring the sweet taste on her tongue.

"Mhmmm", the small smile on her face gets wider when she feels Ezekiel`s lips press against her own. "Very tasty", she whispers, again making him chuckle. "More?", he asks in a sexy low rumble. "Oh yeah." Taking the fork from his hand, Carol dips it into the chocolatey mass. Instead of offering it to Ezekiel, however, she quickly puts it in her own mouth, then leans forward to capture his lips in another sweet kiss. "Very tasty, indeed", he repeats her words.

Just when Carol wants to dip the fork in again – this time really for Ezekiel – there`s a loud cry.

"Jacob, no!"

They turn their heads in time to see little Jacob reach for the cake with his hands, grabbing a fistful and stuffing it into his mouth – smearing his whole face in the process. Before he can go in for a second try, Jerry has picked the boy up, holding him while Nabila tries to wipe him clean again.

"Sorry guys", Jerry offers an apology, though he can`t quite keep the grin off his face. Neither can Carol and Ezekiel. "I guess he found the cake very tasty, too", Ezekiel quips.

Quite a while later – after lots of laughing and chatting, eating and dancing, after the sun has already set and the lights came on, after Jerry and Nabila have left to put their kids to bed – Carol takes Ezekiel`s hand, leading him to the campfire. They sit down on a log, leaning against each other. For some moments, they just watch the hypnotizing dance of the flames, listening to the laughter coming from the gazebo and the soft tunes of the music playing.

Holding up her left hand, Carol smiles dreamily. "I missed wearing this ring so much."

"Me too", Ezekiel agrees, interlacing his hand with hers.

"Do you remember that night at the camp? When you put it on my finger the first time?"

"Oh, yeah", Ezekiel chuckles, "kind of having a déjà-vu right now."

Turning her head, Carol looks at him, her eyes sparkling with the reflection of the flames. She reaches up, gently stroking his beard.

"My heart already knew exactly what it wanted. I knew it the moment you held that ring into my face on that goddamn horse." They both grin at the memory.

"Yeah, that wasn`t the smartest idea I ever had", Ezekiel admits.

"No, it wasn`t", Carol says softly. "But my heart screamed YES, nevertheless. It was just my head that needed a little more time."

"I know." Ezekiel is held captive by the deep emotions swirling in the depths of Carol`s eyes. "I`m glad you listened to your heart."

"So am I. I always did when it came to you."

And that was the absolute truth. Every decision Carol ever made in regards to Ezekiel was based on her love for him, the desire to protect him at all costs. Now she grabs his face with both hands, pulling him closer for a kiss. His arms wrap around her, holding her close. Their hearts beat as one, finally whole again. Reluctantly, their lips separate, their bodies not moving an inch. Slowly, Carol`s hand trails down Ezekiel`s chest, her fingers nestling with the open v of his shirt.

"How about we make this party a little more private?", she asks huskily.

Ezekiel nods. Just what he was thinking. Getting up, he pulls Carol to her feet. Together, they put out the fire before making their way back to the gazebo. Halfway there, Ezekiel suddenly stops, perking his ears. A new song has started playing, making him smile.

"One last dance?"

It only took Carol a few seconds longer to recognize the song, a distant memory of a romantic night at the Kingdom welling up. Stepping into Ezekiel`s arms, she molds herself against him, swaying with him to the soft melody. Both of them have discarded their shoes a while ago, feeling the still warm sand beneath their feet. It`s a perfect moment in time, another memory made, one that will last for the rest of their lives.

After the songs ends, they take the last few steps back, still holding hands. Lydia and Elijah are engaged in some sort of card game with Judith, R.J. and Gracie, all of them looking up when they notice Carol and Ezekiel emerge from the shadows.

"Do you want to go?", Judith asks.

"Yes, it`s getting late", Carol replies, "why don`t we gather everything up quickly and then …"

"Oh, don`t worry about that. We`ll take care of everything", Elijah offers.

"Uhm – are you sure?"

"Yes, of course", Lydia agrees, "most things are already packed anyway. We`ll put out the torches and make sure everything`s stored safely. And then we will take R.J., Judith and Gracie back with us."

Carol and Ezekiel exchange a glance. Giving up responsibility and just put their own desires first was not something they usually did.

"Just go! You can trust us", Judith reassures them.

"Oh, I know we can", Carol quickly replies.

"Absolutely!" Spotting their shoes, Ezekiel bows to pick them up. "Can you, uh, can you check on the campfire also? I`m sure it`s out, but …"

"We will."

"Okay then", putting his arm around his wife`s waist, Ezekiel softly nudges her to get going. "We`ll see you tomorrow."

"Good night!"

"Good night. And thank you."

Throwing one last look over her shoulder, Carol then concentrates on the way ahead, her own arm also sneaking around Ezekiel`s middle. Once they have rounded the dune, it`s pitch-dark, but the moon is shining bright, and they know it`s just a couple meters to the other end of the dune. From there they will be able to see the lights of the newly built residential area.

As soon as their feet touch solid ground other than sand, they slip back into their shoes.

"Don`t worry about them. These kids can handle a lot more than putting out some torches", Ezekiel says when he notices Carol looking back into the direction they came from. Smirking, she grabs his hand, pulling him further. "I know."

A couple minutes later, they reach their temporary home. Once inside, they lung for each other without even bothering to switch on the lights. Their arms wrap around each other, their lips connecting in a passionate kiss. Stumbling blindly through the dark, they only separate when they collide rather clumsily with the couch. Laughing, they carefully manage their way around it.

Reaching for the wall on the other side of the large room, Carol switches on the lights for the small hallway that leads to the bedrooms and bath. Smiling at Ezekiel, she takes his hands, trying to pull him into that direction. He resists, though, pulling her against him instead. Weaving one hand into her curly hair, he steals another breathless kiss.

"Why don`t you go ahead and I`ll get us a drink", he suggests.

"Oooh, we have a drink?"

"Mhmh." Grinning, Ezekiel turns her around, gently pushing her towards the hallway. Turning on his heel himself, he walks over to the fridge where he stored his little surprise earlier.

When Carol opens the door to their bedroom and turns on the lights, she`s met by another surprise. Someone was definitely in here after they left. There`s candles placed all over the room. Smiling, she steps inside and picks up the matches on the nightstand. Crossing the room, she starts lighting the candles on the dresser on the opposite wall. Before she can finish all of them, Ezekiel comes in, a bottle of champagne in one hand and two glasses in the other.

"Champagne! Nice!"

"Just the best for you, my Love!"

Putting the bottle and glasses down on the nightstand, Ezekiel takes the matches from Carol, finishing the rest of the candles. When that is done, he turns to switch out the lights again, leaving them standing in the candlelight. Picking up the glasses, Carol holds them out for Ezekiel to pour the sparkling liquid into them. They clink their glasses, each taking a sip. Taking a step forward, Carol wraps her arm around Ezekiel, seeking his kiss.

"It was a wonderful evening", she whispers.

"It truly was. And the best is yet to come."

Smiling knowingly, Carol raises her glass to her lips again. "Yes, it is." They look each other straight in the eye over the rim of their glasses, downing the rest of the champagne. After putting the glasses down again, they reach for each other, sinking into a passionate kiss. Slowly, Carol starts unbuttoning Ezekiel`s shirt. Herr hands glide up and down his chest and stomach a few times, reveling in the feeling of his muscles under her palms. Breaking their connection, she watches as she pushes the garment off his shoulders.

Their eyes meet again, desire sparkling between them. Reaching out, Ezekiel slides his hands up Carol`s bare arms, fingering the soft material of her short sleeves. He proceeds to drag his fingers down her cleavage, just lightly touching the flesh of her breasts. His hands come to rest on her hips, pulling her flush against him.

"I really love this dress." Ezekiel steals another powerful kiss, then turns Carol in his arms. Pressing up against her back, he whispers in her ear, "unfortunately, it has to go."

He kisses that spot just below her ear that he knows drives her crazy. Turning her head, Carol searches his lips while he pulls the zipper of her dress down, letting it fall to the floor. His mouth returns to her neck, teasingly nipping and licking.

"Mhhh", Carol hums her approval.

Pressing one hand against her belly, Ezekiel uses the other one to open the clasp of her bra. He kisses his way down her neck and over her shoulder, pushing the strap of her bra down. Following the path back up, he switches to the other side, repeating the action. Carol lets the bra drop down to her feet, leaning her head back against Ezekiel`s shoulder. His hands come up to cover her breasts, squeezing gently.

A low guttural sound escapes her throat, her own hands covering his – not to still his movements, but just to make a connection. Their lips find each other again in a deep sensual kiss. It`s only when Ezekiel starts rubbing his thumbs over her nipples, that Carol pulls away, gasping for air. The play of his fingers on her flesh feels so good, and she gives herself a moment or two to enjoy it a little bit longer, but then she turns around again, facing her husband.

Holding eye contact, she lets her fingers glide over his torso again, landing on his belt. She opens it, carefully lowering the zipper of his pants over the prominent bulge. After so many years as a couple, it still felt thrilling how easily they could arouse each other. Pushing his pants down together with his underwear, Carol presses herself up against Ezekiel, her hands finding their way to his well-rounded backside. He weaves his fingers into her short curls, engaging her in a languid kiss.

Soon, their hands get restless, roaming wherever they can reach. Slipping his fingers beneath Carol`s panties, Ezekiel rids her of the last piece of fabric separating them. Without ever stopping the sensual play of their lips and tongues, they manage to turn around, sinking down on the bed in a tangled heap. Raising his hips, Ezekiel settles himself in the cradle of Carol`s legs. His heavy erection is nestled between her moist folds, brushing against the sensitive bundle of nerves.

Moaning at the intimate contact, they break their kiss, staring into each other`s eyes. Pulling her legs up, Carol rests her feet lightly against Ezekiel`s butt, opening herself up in invitation. Her fingers creep up his neck, gently stroking his beard. With one hand still buried in her hair, Ezekiel grabs one of her thighs with the other, slowly rocking back and forth a couple times. Still holding eye contact, he raises his hips a bit, sinking the thick head of his penis into Carol`s welcoming heat.

"Mmmmm", she hums her pleasure, her eyes closing and her chest rising. Her hands drop from Ezekiel`s face, her fingers curling around his biceps. Her pelvis tilts forward, her heels digging into the back of his thighs. Ezekiel`s skin prickles from the sight she makes, the erotic display of her lust for him, the way her whole body calls for him. He`s trying to hold still, wants to take his time worshipping Carol`s body, but it`s impossible to withstand the alluring temptation. Her legs keep urging him, his name falling from her lips in a sexy whisper.

"Zeke."

He gives in, pushing himself further into her depths until he is fully sheathed inside her. Again, they moan in unison. Intent on keeping their pace low, Ezekiel slips his arms under Carol`s upper body, thus giving him better access to her breasts. Gripping her shoulders, he lowers his head, lavishing attention to the supple flesh with his mouth and tongue. Their groins are pressed together, just slightly moving. The friction is intense and combined with the nibbling and licking, the scratch of Ezekiel`s beard, it takes Carol higher and higher until she crashes into an earth-shattering orgasm.

Tuned to her very reaction, Ezekiel raises his head to watch the pleasure roll over her, delighted by the sound of her hoarse cry of release. He keeps grinding against her, feels the tremors ripple through her body. The pull of her inner muscles is strong, but he withstands, unwilling to end their lovemaking just yet. When he feels her relax, he adjusts their position – just a tiny change, but it makes him slip even deeper into her.

Gasping, Carol pulls her legs up further, locking them over Ezekiel`s back.

"That feels so good", she says in a husky voice, her arms wrapping around his shoulders.

"Yeah, it does", Ezekiel agrees, bowing down to capture Carol`s already kiss-swollen lips with his. "You look absolutely gorgeous."

Chuckling low in her throat, Carol pulls him down again for another kiss. "I`m all sweaty."

"Mmmm", Ezekiel hums, licking up the side of her neck to her ear. "Delicious."

The chuckle turns into a giggle, making him smile against her skin. This was one of the many things that made their relationship so special, the ability to laugh with each other, even when they were in the throes of passion. They kiss again, sweetly at first, but soon their hunger for each other rises again. Picking up his movement, Ezekiel starts thrusting into Carol with deep strokes, almost pulling out completely before surging back in.

Her hands glide over his back restlessly, gripping here and there, feeling the play of his muscles under his skin. Tonight, Ezekiel is in charge of their lovemaking, and Carol is totally in for it. He thoroughly enjoys the sounds coming from her and the wiggling of her breasts when their bodies make impact. Giving in to his own desire, he starts pounding her with quick hard strokes, pushing her closer to the edge with every surge of his hips.

And then he stops, going back to his slow and steady rhythm. He keeps her on the brink, alternating the speed and depth of his thrusts. It feels heavenly. There`s a constant pleasurable thrum running through Carol`s body. Her hands drop to the mattress, fisting the bed sheets, when Ezekiel picks up his speed again, hitting that sweet spot inside her that makes her toes curl. A deep guttural sound escapes her throat, telling him that she`ll be coming soon.

Groaning himself, Ezekiel reaches for her hands, holding on tight to her as he seeks his own completion. His head drops to Carol`s shoulder, his movements becoming erratic.

"Yes!" Her voice close to his ear sends shivers down his back. Another powerful thrust, two and then he empties himself inside her, stifling the sounds of his release in the crook of her neck. Carol can feel the exact moment he lets go, feels the hot spurts of his semen. It triggers her own orgasm, the tight knot in her belly exploding into a tidal wave of intense pleasure.

They ride the waves out together, holding each other close until the last delicious aftershocks have subsided. Drained from their strength, they stroke each other lazily, exchanging sweet kisses. When he feels that he can move, Ezekiel rolls to his side, gathering Carol against him. She snuggles into him, sighing blissfully. Never has she felt safer than in Ezekiel`s arms, so loved and cherished. He nuzzles her damp hair with his nose, gently brushing it out of her face.

Looking up, she smiles at him. "I love you."

He bows down, first pressing a soft kiss to her forehead, then her nose and finally her lips. "I love you, too."

Remembering the bottle of champagne still sitting on their nightstand, Carol pushes against Ezekiel`s shoulder. Complying, he rolls to his back, stretching his limps with a groan. Throwing him a knowing look, Carol climbs on his lap, reaching over to pour them another glass. Sitting back, she looks down at him, a glass in each hand. With a boyish grin, he sits up, taking a glass from her while sneaking his other arm around her waist.

"To us and our new beginning", Carol says.

"Oh yeah", Ezekiel agrees. They clink their glasses and take a sip, exchanging a sweet kiss afterwards.

"And to our beautiful love", Ezekiel adds, "the most powerful force I have ever experienced."

Touched, Carol nods her head, her free hand cupping Ezekiel`s cheek, pulling him into another kiss. Letting go, she laughs softly. "Yeah, to our love." Another clink of their glasses and another sip. The alcohol spreads in her belly and all of a sudden, Carol feels incredibly tired. A yawn spreads on her face that she is unable to contain.

"Feeling sleepy?"

She nods, another yawn swallowing her answer. Sliding off Ezekiel`s lap, she scrambles out of bed, putting her glass down on the nightstand. He follows her, kissing her shoulder.

"I`ll put that back in the fridge", he says as he reaches for the bottle, plucking the cork back in. "We can have the rest with breakfast."

"Sounds good. Gotta go to the bathroom."

A couple minutes later, they`re snuggled up in bed again, quickly drifting off into a peaceful sleep.

The next morning

Lying on his side propped up on his elbow, Ezekiel watches his wife. He has woken a while ago, delighted to find that Carol was still deep asleep next to him. She`s lying on her stomach, her head facing away from him. A little sliver of sunlight is falling in through the curtains, telling him that it must be late already. Late for them, anyway. In any case, most times during their relationship, Carol was the one to wake up first and Ezekiel just always tremendously enjoyed the times when she didn`t.

As he is now.

The lower half of her body is covered by the sheets, but he has a nice view of her slender back. His eyes are drawn to the adorable dusting of freckles on her shoulders that he loves so much. A smile appears on his lips as he wonders how many times he tried counting them. Keeping himself from touching them, his eyes wander to the small scar on Carol`s right shoulder blade. When he first saw it a couple weeks ago, Ezekiel was surprised, wondering where she got it. It definitely hadn`t been there when they last shared a bed in Hilltop.

At first, Carol tried to be evasive about it, but then she confessed she got it when she sneaked out of the Commonwealth on her own a couple of weeks after she first got there. She did it in an attempt to find something with which she could call in a favor from Hornsby in return – in order to try and save Ezekiel`s life. He had already known that Carol came to some sort of agreement with the man to allow for his surgery, but she hadn`t told him about her trip to the wine factory before. A trip where she had been attacked by some walkers, cutting her shoulder when she fell into some shards on the floor while trying to defend herself.

Naturally, Ezekiel hadn`t been too happy when he heard about it, telling Carol she shouldn`t have endangered herself. She`d regarded him with a rather incredulous look, then dramatically rolled her eyes at him. 'Don`t be silly', she said, grabbing his face and kissing him sweetly. 'I would always do it again if it means I could safe you.' Of course, Ezekiel knew that, and he would always do the same for her.

Bowing his head, Ezekiel softly presses his lips to the scar. He will forever be grateful for having this incredible woman by his side. He pulls back when he feels her stir, his eyes wandering further south. On the left side of Carol`s lower back there`s another scar, stretching from her hip to her spine. It`s thin and faded, barely visible after the long time that has passed since she got it. It stems from a different life with another man, a man who hasn`t been good to her.

Ezekiel remembers how in the beginning of their relationship, he used to trace this scar with his finger when he thought that Carol was asleep. She hadn`t talked much about her past and Ezekiel never prompted her, but he had already figured out that she had been in an abusive marriage and that this scar had to do with it. One night, she surprised him, calmly telling him how she got the scar. Ezekiel listened quietly, feeling sorry for the young vulnerable woman she once used to be, while at the same time a deep anger rose in his chest towards a man he would thankfully never meet.

After Carol fell silent again, Ezekiel did the same as he did just now – he bowed his head and kissed the scar on her skin. So gentle, the love he felt for her seeping right into her. He repeated it many nights afterwards, every time healing the scars on her soul a little more. Now, Ezekiel does it again, then follows the line of her spine until he reaches the scar on Carol`s shoulder again, pressing his lips to it once more. There`s deeper, more recent scars on her soul now he wishes he could erase with his kisses. He knows it`s not that easy, but he also knows that their love for each other will help with the healing – for her scars and his.

"I know what you are doing", Carol`s sleepy voice reaches his ear.

Smiling, Ezekiel lies back on his side, giving her the space to roll around. She does, immediately snuggling up against him. Opening her eyes, she smiles back at him.

"Sorry I woke you up", he offers an apology.

"You haven`t."

Her hand reaches up, softly tracing the contours of his face. He holds still, enjoying her intimate caress. When her fingers glide over his mouth, he playfully tries to catch them, making her giggle. Slipping her hand to the back of his neck, Carol pulls Ezekiel down for a kiss. Their lips mold against each other perfectly, applying the softest pressure. Like magnets they are drawn to each other, only separating for split seconds. They get completely lost in their lover`s embrace, their bodies and souls merging into one being. Barely moving at all they bathe in the pleasures their connection gives them, slowly floating into completion.

Afterwards, Carol delightfully stretches her limbs, looking up at Ezekiel with a satisfied smile.

"I just love lazy early morning sex", she whispers, as if just revealing a well-kept secret.

Chuckling, Ezekiel kisses the tip of her nose, before rolling off her and stretching as well. "Yeah, although I do believe it is not very early anymore."

"I don`t care."

Unwilling to leave the coziness of their bed, Carol snuggles up to her husband again, seeking the warmth of his embrace. Content, they keep lying there in the semi-darkness until eventually hunger and the need to visit the bathroom drives them to get up. Together, they prepare a splendid late breakfast (including the neglected bottle of champagne) and carry it out to the back porch. It`s still warm and sunny, but a hint of the upcoming fall is lying in the air.

After finishing their meal, Carol reclines with her legs stretched out on the padded wooden bench. Her back is propped up against Ezekiel`s chest, who put his feet up on a chair. Sipping on their glasses every now and then, they simply enjoy the fact that they have nowhere to be today. The shore is out of their sight, but they can watch the softly heaving dune grass in the distance and some seagulls in the air looking for bait.

"It`s so beautiful here. Peaceful." Leaning over to the table, Carol puts her empty glass away. "I wish we could stay longer." With school starting in a few days, they were scheduled to travel back to the Commonwealth tomorrow, with a short stop in Alexandria on their way back.

"We could move here."

Move to Oceanside? Well, the thought was certainly appealing, but …

"We have responsibilities that we can`t just give up now."

Okay, maybe they could give them up, but Carol was quite happy with her job, and she thought that Ezekiel was, too. Tilting her head back to search eye contact with him, she is glad to find him grinning at her.

"I know and I don`t want to give them up now", he says. "But maybe in a couple years when we retire and let the young ones take over. I could build us our own small house somewhere at the beach. What do you think?"

"That sounds just amazing", she truthfully answers, stretching to plant a kiss on his lips. Settling back in her former position, she grabs his hand, pulling it around her.

"Zeke?"

"Hmm?"

"We`re not old yet, are we?"

He bursts out laughing. "No, no, we are not, my love."

"Good."

Although neither of them feels the urge to retire any time soon, the idea of someday settling down near the beach was now planted in their heads – and it was something they were both looking forward to.

TBC

Author`s notes: Woohoo, I finally finished this chapter. It was a slow write with weeks, months where I didn`t write a single word. Hope you still enjoy it (and sorry, if it is bad). I don`t know when I`ll be able to update again, but just know that they are still on my mind and there`s some bits and pieces of future chapters in my head, I just need to figure out how to put it together.