Chapter 46 – The End

Monday 19th March 2018 – 21:10 pm

Lauren's Flat, Croydon

The sun streamed through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the cosy living room. Lauren and Bo lounged on the plush sofa; their fingers gently intertwined as they shared a comfortable silence. The faint scent of cooked Carribean chicken lingered in the air.

Bo sighed, contented, leaning her head on Lauren's shoulder. "I never thought I'd feel this at ease with someone," she murmured, her voice soft and genuine.

Lauren smiled, pressing a tender kiss to Bo's forehead. "Me neither. It's like all the pieces just fit together."

"Almost like your body was made just for me." Bo lightly kissed Lauren's left nipple.

"Well, doing things like that will almost certainly break it." Lauren shuddered, her nipple firming to attention at just the softest touch.

They both chuckled, the air thick with a newfound intimacy. Relaxing back in a comfortable silence, Lauren's hand traced soothing circles on Bo's back, each touch sending a shiver of affection. The room was filled with peaceful rest as they basked in the afterglow of their intimate moments.

Bo's gaze wandered around the room, her eyes landing on the front door, "Did you hear a knock?"

Lauren jumped up from the sofa and rushed to check, peering into the peephole. "It's a courier driver."

Bo quickly dressed in her Jurassic Park t-shirt and frantically searched the flat to find some bottoms to put on. "Wait," she shouted. "I'm coming."

"Again?" Lauren laughed, running in the opposite direction, also looking for clothes. Finding some track bottoms, she ran them over to Bo, who gratefully took them.

Bo playfully slapped Lauren's bare bum before she skipped naked into the bedroom. Bo waited until Lauren was gone before opening the front door. Bo greeted the courier and signed the phablet that was handed to her. The driver smiled and then handed over a large envelope. It was addressed to Isabeau Bishop. "You look like Bo Dennis." He said as he took back the phablet.

"I get told that often," Bo put on her best London accent, then grinned as he left and closed the door.

"Very convincing, Bubba," Lauren said, wearing a vest and shorts. She walked the few steps until she was again by her side.

"The accent is rubbing off on me," Bo smirked, wiggling her eyebrows.

"Been some rubbing lately." Lauren teased, planting a delicate kiss on Bo's mouth.

They both laughed. Lauren moved back to the kitchen and flicked on the kettle.

Bo opened her package to find two files, one with a post-it note from Evony, saying, 'Now you really do have all the cards'. Interesting, Bo thought; she would read that another day. What she really wanted was Lauren's note. Pulling it out like a delicate artefact, careful not to tear it. It was perfect. Bo placed the rest of the file in her bag by the door and returned to the sofa.

Lauren joined with a coffee for Bo and a tea for herself. "Ahh, so Evony has delivered her promise and sent you the note I left."

Bo gently held it, still folded. "Yes. Why am I nervous to read it?"

"Do you want me to read it to you?" Lauren asked, placing the drinks on the coffee table.

"Yes, but wait." Bo handed Lauren the note and ran to her bag. She pulled out her piece, "I want to be sure it's my note. Do you have tape?"

"Yes," Lauren jumped up, placed both pieces face down on the breakfast bar, lined them up and taped them together. Holding it up to show Bo, "Perfect fit, just like us."

Returning to her spot beside Bo, Lauren asked. "Ready?"

Bo held onto Lauren and nodded, "Yes."

Bubba Bo,

I can't imagine what you're thinking right now, so let me tell you the truth.

I'm a spy working undercover for the National Central Bureau. I wasn't here to spy on you, just some people around you who have red notices on them.

But that's not what you want to hear.

You will be told bad things about me. Please don't believe it all. Those around you may say I used you, but I never did. You were never part of the assignment. You were just someone I couldn't avoid. You captured me in every sense of the word.

I wish I was there to explain, but I will be gone. I'm flying back to England and won't be able to contact you.

I never meant to hurt or involve you, but I was drawn to you from the moment we met. I tried to step away, but it was the worst week of my life. Seeing you everywhere, knowing you exist, yet not being with you. I felt invisible. Lost almost.

I can't explain it, but I'll try. Bo, I love you. It might seem crazy to declare after only a few weeks, but I knew it when we met. We have a connection that defies explanation. It's as if my soul recognises yours and wants to be part of you. I don't expect you to feel the same, and I will wait patiently if you give me a chance.

I know it's a lot to ask, but Valentine's Day is exactly 8 weeks away, and I still want to be your date for the BAFTAs. I will be dressed and waiting for you to pick me up in a ridiculously long limo at 6 p.m. I live at Kings Gate Apartments, flat 12. My mobile number is +44 7754225500.

Please come, give us a chance. If I don't hear from you, and you don't pick me up, I will know your answer. I have hurt you, lied to you, or you don't feel the same, and from my heart…

I'm Sorry, x

Lauren handed Bo the note, who had not spoken and was unsure how she would react to her words. She had declared her love in a letter and wrote about soulmates. As if speaking overwhelmed her, Lauren barely whispered, "So that's how I felt. Writing that I loved you after only being together one day. I never considered that you didn't get the note. Instead, I doubted myself, thinking I was an idiot. The longer it took you to call, the more foolish I felt. So I stupidly believed Evony when she met me after the Baftas and told me you had shared it with her and laughed about it. Then, I genuinely believed you would be better without me after she threatened your career. I thought that even if you did have some feelings for me, you would never want to lose everything. And well I - "

"Ssshh bubba, please." Bo silenced her with a brief kiss. After reading the heartfelt words penned by Lauren, a rush of emotions cascaded over Bo like a gentle wave, leaving her heart both exhilarated and apprehensive. Each word seemed to resonate intensely, carrying the weight of genuine emotion that tugged at the strings of her feelings. "I was in love, too. I should have said that in that room. I should not have left. I should have returned and demanded to see you and asked again. I gave up. I thought I was the only one who felt that way. I felt foolish for loving you at first sight."

"Bo, I am so, so sorry." Lauren pleaded, "It's my fault—"

Another kiss silenced Lauren, "No one is at fault anymore. Look at me now. Lost it all, and I couldn't be happier. We need to trust our feelings and trust each other."

"I will. I love you. I promise never to doubt that again." Lauren held her tight.

"I love you too, and I promise never to give up on us again." Bo parted slightly to look Lauren directly in the eye.

The room suddenly felt more intimate, as if the note had woven an invisible thread connecting their souls even more intimately than before. The soft glow of a nearby lamp gave a warm ambience, casting a comforting light on the paper that held the declaration of affection.

As Bo traced her fingers over the written lines, a soft smile graced her lips, "Evony was right about one thing." Bo finally admitted.

Lauren's head shot up, "Really, in what?"

"I will frame this." They both laughed.

Their laughter mingled, the sound filling the room like a melody. The lightness of the moment was a stark contrast to the intensity they had shared earlier. But that contrast made it so beautiful that it could seamlessly shift from passion to comfort.

Bo stood and carefully placed the note on the bookshelf, out of harm's way, ready to be framed. She loved it; each word echoed in Bo's mind, creating a symphony of emotions that danced between excitement and vulnerability. The note had opened a door and closed another. In the quiet stillness of that moment, the future seemed to shimmer with endless possibilities, each one beckoning them to step forward with an open heart. The note had become a catalyst, an invitation to explore the depths of love, vulnerability, and the beautiful unknown that lay ahead.

Returning, Bo bent down for a kiss. As their lips drew nearer, time seemed to slow, allowing them to savour every heartbeat that echoed like a drum of excitement. Their breaths mingled, warm and enticing, as they shared the same air, space, and yearning.

And then, with a tenderness that spoke volumes, their lips finally met. It was a kiss that held the weight of unspoken promises, shared dreams, and the depth of their affection. It was a kiss that bridged the gap between the words on the paper and the uncharted territory of their emotions.

In that single, electrifying moment, all doubts faded away, leaving only the purity of their connection. The soft press of their lips against each other was like a gentle caress, a merging of souls that whispered secrets known only to them.

Time seemed to stand still as they savoured the taste of this new beginning, the sweetness of the kiss etching into their memory. The world outside melted away, leaving them in a cocoon of intimacy where nothing else existed but the two of them. And as they finally pulled away, their foreheads touching as they caught their breath, the room felt charged with new energy. The note, the emotions, and now the kiss were all threads woven into the tapestry of a love story that had just begun, leaving them both eager to explore what lay ahead, hand in hand.

"Are you hungry?" Lauren asked her tone a mix of affection and concern.

Bo nodded, a soft smile gracing her lips. "Starving, actually."

With a final lingering look, they untangled themselves from each other, reluctantly getting up from the sofa. As they moved toward the kitchen, their connection remained a magnetic pull beyond physical attraction.

"I'll reheat the chicken. Can you microwave the rice?" Lauren suggested, her fingers gently brushing against Bo's cheek.

Bo's heart swelled at the tenderness in Lauren's touch. "Sure can, now, the microwave is the thingy I put bread in?"

Lauren stopped in her tracks and looked at Bo, who was giggling. "Haha, you had me there."

Bo curtseyed, "But seriously, how does this work?" Bo opened the microwave door, closed it, and pressed all the buttons.

"We swap. You heat the chicken, keep stirring it, and let me know when it is hot enough. I'll do the rice."

"Ahh, thanks. You can show me how it works another day; tonight, I'm starving." Bo kissed Lauren. "We worked up quite the appetite today."

"We sure did," Lauren grinned.

In the kitchen, amidst the clinking of utensils and the sizzle of the stove, they danced around each other effortlessly. Their laughter and occasional stolen glances spoke of a deepening bond, a connection that extended beyond the bedroom.

"This reminds me so much of Morzine. I loved watching you cook, but I loved even more that Christmas when we cooked together." Bo continued to stir the pot. "I will need some cooking lessons."

Lauren gently took the stirrer from Bo and placed it beside the pot, "You were an amazing Sioux Chef that day. One of my favourite memories."

Lauren reigned kisses down Bo's neck.

"Hmmm, what you doing?" Bo quietly croaked, unsure if she would resist Lauren if it came to it. "I need to eat, but can we reheat reheated food?"

Lauren stopped, "Sorry, I find you irresistible. But you're right, as always, my love. We need to eat food."

Bo found two bowls in the cupboard and set them down, "Seeing as you cooked, I will wash up."

"Not needed, sexy. I have a dishwasher," Lauren replied, grinning from ear to ear. "So once you have been fed, I will burn it off you. And repeat that every day until you ask me to stop."

"So you expect me to stay in the flat eating and having sex all day?" Bo held a straight face, then giggled, "Sounds perfect. I hope Vex likes the hotel, as I could do that forever."

Lauren and Bo found themselves on a shared journey of domesticity and love as the aroma of a home-cooked meal filled the air. They were building the foundation of trust, love, and a sense of belonging that neither had anticipated. As the evening wore on, they sat at the breakfast bar, savouring their delicious homemade dinner. The soft candlelight illuminated their faces, casting a warm glow.

Bo took a bite of the Caribbean Chicken, closing her eyes in appreciation. "You're still an amazing cook," she mumbled, piling another full fork into her mouth.

Lauren chuckled, raising an eyebrow playfully. "And you're incredibly charming, even with your mouth full."

They exchanged a playful grin before returning to their meal. The conversation flowed effortlessly, covering topics both deep and light-hearted. After dinner, they returned to the living room and snuggled on the sofa under a soft blanket. Bo rested her head on Lauren's shoulder, tracing absent-minded patterns on Lauren's hand.

"Fancy a movie?" Lauren asked, "We never did get that movie date?"

"I would love that," Bo replied, "I still want a British Rom-Com, though."

Lauren laughed, "Notting Hill not too cliché for you?"

"It's perfect," Bo snuggled into Lauren's warm body, lifting her feet onto the sofa and pulling the blanket over them more.

Lauren pressed a few buttons on the remote until the opening credits were on the screen. Settling down, Lauren pushed forward for one last kiss. Bo tilted her head to meet her. Their lips met in a gentle kiss.

"Do you want to play the game of movie mistakes?" Bo asked, reminding Lauren of when they would play that same game in Morzine.

"Sure," Lauren smiled back at Bo, "What shots do you want me to get?"

Bo held Lauren still, "New rules. Every mistake this time gets a kiss."

Lauren snuggled back down the sofa, "Let's hope there are many."

Bo laughed, "There is, my love. Plucker up. The first one is coming up. The same adult drys a child's face every time you see the outside of the bookshop."

8th April 2018 – 19.00 pm

Taste of India Restaurant, London

"Happy Birthday, Bubba." Lauren squeezed her girlfriend's hand under the table. "I hope you're enjoying your day."

"Everything's perfect. Since you woke me up, I've had a great day, and dinner has been lovely." Bo replied, blushing slightly at the memory of being 'woke' up by Lauren.

"It's not over yet. We have the Dal next. Codeye has rounded up the others, and Trick agreed to close for a private party." Lauren was pleased. Never before had she arranged a party for someone and was all going without a hitch. "Think of it as a large VIP room with a bar and a karaoke machine."

"Well, I am an A-List star!" Bo giggled. Looking over the table, she smiled, "This is better than I could have ever asked for, just me, you, our family and some close friends."

Lauren smiled also. Vex, Kenzi, Tamsin and Aife were all in deep conversation.

Bo played with her necklace, a gift from Lauren. A beautiful Pandora white gold chain with a diamond-encrusted heart, set within a larger heart. With the words 'Forever in My Heart' engraved on the side.

"You like your gift?"

"I showed you this morning how much I liked it." Bo bit her lower lip, "Twice."

Lauren blushed.

"Right, you two, park your drinks. William is dusted, and rubber is calling." Vex rubbed his hands together, "Blinding ruby, now let's be off, peeps."

"What is he saying?" Aife whispered to her daughter.

Bo laughed and knew what Vex meant, but her mom didn't need a lesson in cockney slang today. "He said drink up, the check's paid, the food was lovely, and we're going to the pub."

"Did he?" Aife raised an eyebrow, "In what language, dear."

They both laughed, linked arms and followed the others out. Lauren stepped out with Kenzi, immersed in conversation, and Bo felt warm with how well they got on. Vex was leading the group, already merry from the bottles of wine with dinner, trying to get Dyson to carry him. Dyson, uninterested, was holding Tamsin's hand and desperately trying to get him off him.

"Come on, mate, just a small piggy." Vex attempted to jump on him again, failing and being kept on his feet by Tamsin.

"No, Vex," Dyson held his arm out, "Seriously, mate. How old are you wanting a piggyback to the pub."

"Please, my heels can't cope with this cobbled street." Vex pointed to his six-inch heeled boots and the small cobbled alley leading to the Dal.

Dyson huffed, gave in, and agreed to give his friend a piggyback ride. As he hoisted Vex onto his back, he realised that despite appearances, Vex was heavier than a suitcase filled with sand.

Holding on for dear life, Vex yelled, "Oi Pansy, hoist me up; ya gonna drop me."

Trying to maintain his balance, Dyson chuckled and said, "Well, how much do you weigh?"

They wobbled around like a pair of overgrown toddlers, leaving everyone around them in stitches.

"Oi, gonna mug yourself off in front of ya bird. Use ya guns and lift me, squire."

"I am Vex. You're fricking heavy, mate."

Lauren stepped in, pushed Vex higher up Dyson's back, and reshifted his weight more evenly. "There you go. Let me know if you need more help."

Kenzi relinked her arm with Lauren and Tamsin linked on the other side.

"Cheers, skin, should've asked you." Vex playfully kissed the top of Dyson's head, "Giddy up."

The group laughed. Bo noticed her mother rubbing her head, "You'll get used to the accent and dialect."

Bo understood Vex so much more since spending more time with him. Lauren would have him, Kenzi, Tamsin and Dyson for dinner most nights. Or they would spend days together, seeing the real London, according to Vex and Lauren. This basically meant the best places to eat and a history of London's many pubs.

Arriving at the inconspicuous doors, Dyson dropped Vex to the floor.

"Come on, Aife, gonna show ya a good old boozer. Do you sing?" Vex placed his arm around her shoulder, and they walked in together. Dyson followed, rubbing his back.

"Are we still in London?" Aife asked.

"Right in the 'eart," Vex winked back to Lauren.

Tamsin was laughing with Kenzi. Bo and Lauren walked hand in hand at the back.

"This will be interesting." Lauren said, "You remember I offered to take you back to the French restaurant."

"It's over-rated." Bo pulled her closer, "This is what I asked for, as this is what I want. It's real people, real places, and I have real fun. Mom will also love it."

"Whatever my Bubba wants," Lauren smiled.

As soon as everyone arrived, Codeye was in his element, the host with the most as he proudly showed off his decorating skills. Tables of nibbles had been put to the side, and the place had banners and balloons everywhere. It was an exceptional effort.

"Bo darling," He greeted her with a hug. "Happy birthday, sweetheart, 'ope ya 'ave a diamond of a day. I got ya a card. Nufink special, but the first I've given a bird I've not boned."

"Charming choice of words, Cod," Lauren stood beside them. "Good job in here, by the way."

"Cheers," he replied, "Can I get you both a drink?"

"It's an open bar, remember," Lauren replied.

"I know, still I can collect them for you." Codeye laughed.

"Two pints of dark fruit ciders then, please," Lauren replied, loving how they both took to the drink recently now that the weather had cleared up and the sun appeared most days.

Codeye left, and Bo and Lauren mingled with the others. Friends gathered around to hug Bo and hand her gifts and cards. Kenzi had invited a small group of people from the Vixens production whom they knew well and trusted to not sell any photos. Along with those, some other A-listers were invited, happy to be out of the public's prying eyes and looking like they were enjoying themselves also.

Lauren observed Bo and thought she could see a tear in her eye. "You okay?"

"Yeah, I just never got birthday cards from actual friends before. I got printed cards from people in the industry, but this is different. Better."

"Don't get your hopes up." Lauren bumped her shoulder, "You said last year Tesla gave you a Model S. Best you'll get from this lot is an Argos gift card or two-for-one coupon at Nando's."

Bo laughed. "And it will be my best gift, as it means more. I wish I could show how much I value their friendship."

"You gave them a free bar." Lauren smiled, "They're friends for life."

"Speaking of gifts," Lauren looked around and saw everyone in deep conversation. "I have one more for you."

Bo lifted an eyebrow, "Is it a private gift?" Bo motioned to the cleaning cupboard to the side of the bar.

Wrapping her arms around her girlfriend's waist, Lauren leaned in close, "Maybe later. But first, I want to discuss something with you?" Lauren held Bo close. "Dyson will fly out to be with Tamsin in a few months; he's joining her in Canada for the eight months she is shooting Vixens-"

"Oh, I'm so happy. Where are they? I need to tell them." Bo pulled away.

"Wait before you do." Lauren pulled at her hand, causing a slight stubble. "Sorry. It's, erm, the idea I wanted to talk to you about. His job is open. And if you want to, I thought we could take advantage of the Northumberland Mansion and live up there for a while. Until you know what you want to do."

Bo fought back the tears, "Really? You would quit your job at MI6?" Lauren returning to her job worried Bo more than she would have liked to admit. It was a dangerous job and too secretive for her liking.

"Yes, I have my suspension meeting next week, and unless I'm fired, I will need to report back to work immediately. But I don't want to return to protecting a Diplomat, being at their beck and call night or day or travelling the world anymore." Lauren replied, "I want to stay with you and sleep every night beside you."

Bo pulled Lauren in for a kiss, It will be like a new start, for us both?"

"Yes," Lauren replied, "Of sorts. Temporarily until you find what you want to do."

"I don't want to do anything." Bo grinned. "I'm excited to have a normal, quiet life."

Lauren scrunched her face, "Erm, you may not want the next part?"

"What's that?" Bo asked.

"Vex wants to live with us," Lauren replied.

"Vex?" Bo's smile returned.

"Yeah, his company has a club in Newcastle, and it's losing money, so want him there to turn it around." Lauren replied, "The mansion has ten rooms, so we can just put him out of the way."

Bo clapped, "It will be fun. From what I remember of the house, it's huge."

"Massive, like a small hotel." Lauren laughed, "That's not all. Dyson and Tamsin don't see the point in keeping his flat for only six months a year, so they also want a room."

"Really?" Bo grinned.

"Yes, really." Lauren held Bo's hands. "Then Kenzi pipped up and said she was also coming."

Bo held Lauren and screamed. "Yes, this is the best gift I have ever had. I have a girlfriend, best friend and a built-in family. And we are all going to live together."

"It's temporary." Lauren kissed the tip of her nose, "Until you get a new show or film, I will follow you anywhere in the world."

"Anywhere?" Bo held Lauren close, "Really."

"Yes, really." Lauren answered, "Bo, you are my home."

"You are my home too," Bo kissed her girlfriend. Life was all falling into place, and Bo felt so at ease. "I need a break from the spotlight. A year sabbatical should do it, then we'll see."

"Right, you two?" Vex walked over, scooping them both in a firm embrace. "You asked her then?"

Bo nodded. "And I love it. One big house, one big family."

Vex called over, "Tam, Dy, Kenzi, get here. She's onboard, lovely jubly."

The rest of the group gathered in a big hug. Holding tightly and grinning at each other, excited and hopeful for the next chapter.

Dyson and Tamsin spoke to the group first. They said long distance was not worth it and life was too short to stay apart. Tamsin said she would look after Dyson, and he said he loved the idea of being her lover and companion on the red carpet. Vixens were filming from May to November, so they would return to North-East England for Christmas and New Year. Then, it would be Tamsin's turn to do nothing, and Dyson would return to work. They loved each other so much that living in each other's world excited them, and they were determined to make it work.

Vex spoke next. He told the group that he knew his manager job was risky but believed that Carpe Diem nightclub would change everything. Confident that he would make it a success. Also, having his sister around grounded him. He always felt more secure when Lauren was nearby. Lauren had his back since they were children, and he would be the family she needed. Holding his family tight, he let himself believe that he was complete.

Kenzi squeezed everyone tight and spoke next. She didn't have any ties to Canada or the television industry. Bo was her only reason to stay with either one. A new start in England was idyllic. A recent passport using one of the aliases would ensure that immigration didn't try and kick her Russian arse out. Vex immediately offered her a job working with him as an Event Coordinator, and she accepted. Her new job would be to promote acts and DJs to the club and get in the footfall. One thing she knew was people, and she would ensure that Carpe Diem was the place to be. Feeling excited about her new chapter, she grinned harder.

Bo looked around the group, all smiling. She spoke of not being happier than right here. Not when she had picked up her awards or seen large crowds waiting to get a glimpse of her. Not when she had been on set or during TV interviews and radio shows. That was all a happy job she enjoyed, but nevertheless, a job. This was more than she had ever dreamed of. This was a family, one big happy family. All living their own destinies but under the same roof. Time apart when needed but time together when wanted. Bo was in love. In love with Lauren, in love with her family and in love with the idea of the mansion.

Finally, Lauren felt that her heart would burst but remained silent. All she ever wanted was in that room. All her dreams were in the future that they would make together. She was not naive to believe it would all be easy, but she knew she would give it her all. She knew that whatever happened, they would take on together. No more was she an orphan. She had a family, people that loved her. And she loved them all back. Demons would still rear their heads, she had no doubt. And when they did, she would tackle it.

Bo pulled Lauren in close and whispered., "Penny for your thoughts?"

Lauren, in exchange, kissed the side of her cheek. "You don't need to buy them; my thoughts are yours."

"Everything will be okay bubba." Bo smiled.

Lauren shot her head up as if Bo could read her mind, "I'm, erm, well—"

"I know you worry." Bo wrapped Lauren tight against her and whispered, "You worry how you will be as you've been on your own for a while, but you will be perfect. And if you need space, ask for it. Like you said, it's a big house."

"Sorry, it's a good idea." Lauren replied, "And I loved it when they came to me with it, but—"

"Now, it is a reality," Bo interrupted, "it's different. I get that. You have only had Vex since your mom died. Still, after all these years, you don't know what happened and why she was never found, but I will help you find answers."

"Will you?" Lauren looked up, grateful the others were in their own conversations.

"Yes," Bo replied, "There are many unanswered questions in your past that you choose to ignore. But as your life partner, I will help you make sense of them. I have been to enough therapists to know the signs and what you need to do. We'll take it slow, but we'll get closure."

"I am complicated," Lauren admitted, "I worry if you dig, you will find out the real me, who I am and what I have done."

"And I hope I do." Bo smiled. "Because you are not your past, and you've never been your job; you are amazing, brilliant, gentle."

"Really," Lauren asked, "Everyone quickly assumed I was Irish Mafia and a killer. Then Cleo called me it also, and I don't know, what if you all see through my façade?"

"You don't have a façade. The last three weeks together have been perfect." Bo added, "What you have done in the past, we all know it was what was needed to be done to protect others."

Vex looked over and immediately recognised Lauren's worried face, "That's a record skin, from excited to worried in nought to sixty."

Vex's joke made the others turn around.

"She isn't worried about you," Bo protectively kept her arm around Lauren, "do you want to explain."

Lauren looked over. She was far more comfortable looking down the lens of a rifle, "Erm, it's just I fuck up. I have done a lot of fucked up things, and I don't want to fuck up anymore."

"I'm looking forward to spending half the year with you. "Dyson hugged his friend, "Leaving your old job for a more rooted won't be a fuck up. Northumbria Police won't know what has hit them. You're brilliant and will have a specialist team working for you in no time."

"I genuinely believe this is the best family I could be in." Tamsin joined him, "I'm sorry for some of the shitty things I did and said. Jealousy is ugly. But I wasn't jealous of you and Bo, but what you had and still have. But I got it now and really want to make you a friend. I'll stick around and tell you if you're fucking things up. You have a best friend now, misses."

"Me too." Kenzi joined in the hug, "And I'm sorry, again, you have a doppelganger, and I could put those resources of mine to find out who she is now. I am one hundred per cent sure it was never you. And as friends, we will help navigate each other on the right paths."

Lauren squeezed them all briefly, then let go, "I love you all."

"And we all love you. Everyone." Bo raised her glass. "Here's to us."

"Here's to us." Everyone replied and slowly departed, leaving only Bo and Lauren with their arms wrapped tightly around each other.

"We will grow together. Stay honest with me, and I will be with you." Bo kissed Laurens' palm. "I want this. I want you."

"I want this too, for real. Me and you." Lauren replied. "I love you, Bo, then, now and always."

"I love you too, Lauren, then, now and always," Bo replied. "And I want to marry you. I want to be your wife. When you're ready, we can—"

"Tomorrow," Lauren interrupted. "I would marry you tomorrow."

Bo grinned so hard that her face would fall off, "In that case, I'd best get a ring and plan this romantic gesture."

"Unless I beat you to it." Lauren grinned.

"I like a challenge." Bo replied, "Come here, future wife."

"I'm right here, my not-to-future wife." Lauren pulled in Bo to seal their promise with a kiss.

Neither cared about any of their guests as their lips joined together, knowing this was the start of something extraordinary and their relationship had finally begun. As they kissed, it was as if the universe had conspired to bring them together. They knew this was the beginning of something beautiful and enduring, a love that would stand the test of time. Their hearts beat in sync, and they shared dreams of a future filled with laughter, adventures, and a deep, unwavering love. No one would ever part them again. Love was not a destination for them; it was a journey, and they were eager to explore every twist and turn, every high and low, hand in hand.

Although it was still early, both knew they had found the love of their lives. They would let their passion develop at their own pace because what was a few days, months or even years when they had the rest of their lives forever together. Besides, they had a perfect proposal to plan.

With their love and commitment to each other, Bo and Lauren were ready to face whatever challenges life threw their way. As they had each other, they had everything they needed. They had found their soulmates, and their love story was just beginning, a story that would be told for generations to come.

The End