Author's Note: I'm back at this story! :) I hope to finish it in the next few weeks, since there really isn't too much left to go. Let me know what you think!


Chapter 16

The following day, Elizabeth and William made their way onto a private jet at noon. Elizabeth, unaccustomed to this mode of travel, marveled at the experience. They encountered none of the usual airport security hassles or crowds, proceeding directly to the hangar where their luggage was swiftly collected. They were promptly escorted onto the plane, which, while not expansive in size, proved exceptionally comfortable, offering ample space for the two of them. As they boarded, William briefly conversed with the pilots, touching upon their families before shifting their focus to their route and the weather.

Elizabeth was still unaware of their destination but had prepared for a longish flight at her husband's recommendation. He had only told her that their flight would last between five and six hours, which was not as long as the Atlantic crossing and said to her that their destination would be somewhere in Europe. She was interested in their location, though since she had given him a carte blanche, she did not pry too deeply. As they packed the night before, she had asked a few questions about the types of things to pack, but his answers had not always been consistent as he attempted to throw her off.

They had laughed at her refusal to pack a parka, though she had included a few sweaters and other warmer things. It was summer, but she felt it best to be prepared for whatever. However, William had approved the location Mrs Reynolds selected—an isolated villa with a private pool and a view of the Aegean Sea. They would have a car at their disposal, and Mrs Reynolds had planned for a tour or two of the island. Most were centered around the capital of Fira, though she had arranged a yacht trip around the islands that would last a day or two if they wished.

A little while into their flight, William whispered to Elizabeth their destination—Santorini in Greece. The only other time she had left the United States was on her trip to Scotland, so the prospect of visiting Greece thrilled her. William couldn't help but smile, realizing he wanted to take her wherever her heart desired, all around the globe, just to witness the delight in her eyes.

Elizabeth's excitement bubbled over, and she leapt from her seat, landing in William's lap with an exuberant kiss that practically set the cabin on fire. Later, she playfully teased him about their impromptu membership into the 'mile-high club'; the mischievous twinkle in her eye said it all.

"Who would've thought our love story would reach such heights?" Elizabeth giggled, nuzzling her nose against William's.

He chuckled, wrapping his arms around her. "If I'd known all it took was a surprise destination, I would've whisked you away to exotic places sooner."

"Is that a promise?" she grinned. "I should remind you, though, that this is the first time you have taken me on a private jet. I believe that made the difference."

"Absolutely a promise. Anywhere your heart desires and anywhere this jet will fly," he replied, giving her a tender kiss. "As long as you keep that smile on your face."

His eyes sparkled as he released her and whispered one more thing: "You do realize that normally a flight attendant would have accompanied us, but I told Mrs Reynolds that we would not need one and would serve ourselves. I also may have indicated to the pilots a desire for privacy."

"You did not," she gasped, playfully hitting his arm.

"Tell me you did not wear a skirt on purpose, either, mo ghràidh," he growled into her ear.

Laughing, she kissed him, and they confirmed their membership in the club once again.

A little later, as the plane descended toward the airfield on Santorini, they pulled apart and straightened their clothes. With a fond smile, Elizabeth returned to her seat across from William, and the two gazed out of their windows, their eyes fixed on the view below.

With each moment, the island of Santorini and the enchanting landscape became clearer beneath them. The whitewashed villages seemed to cling to the cliffs while the cerulean waters of the caldera sparkled in the sunlight. William had visited the area before, but his excitement grew alongside Elizabeth's.

After the plane touched down, the couple were efficiently shuttled to the island's main airport. A courteous driver was Waiting for them, ready to convey them to their private villa just outside the bustling capital city of Fira. At first glance, the villa's exterior appeared unassuming, although, as they ventured through the property, they were taken aback by the luxury and the panoramic vistas it had to offer. The villa's interior, although not sprawling, exuded an irresistible coziness, with tastefully appointed furnishings that promised comfort and relaxation.

It was the outdoor spaces, though, that left them utterly spellbound. The villa's garden, a private oasis, featured a generously sized pool where sunbeds were thoughtfully placed within a shallow pool, offering a unique spot for relaxing in the warm Mediterranean sun. Nearby, an outdoor kitchen awaited, complete with a small fridge and a barbecue grill, perfect for indulging in alfresco dining experiences. And for the cooler evenings, a stone fireplace stood ready to provide a warm, intimate ambience that invited snuggling under the starlit Santorini skies.

Yet, the view from this private haven truly stole their hearts. As they stood in the garden, they could see for miles, their gaze much of the island of Santorini. The panoramic view included the majestic Aegean Sea, its vast expanse stretching to meet the horizon. The azure waters sparkled under the Mediterranean sun, contrasting with the whitewashed villages that clung to the island's volcanic cliffs.

As they stood on the terrace in the setting sun, Elizabeth and William were overwhelmed by the sheer beauty and serenity that enveloped them. "William, I know we have just arrived, but I can definitely say already that we'll need to return her often. This is amazing."

He laughed. "Shall we purchase a vacation home everywhere we visit, mo chridhe?"

"That depends on how much we enjoy these places, Will. If the trip here was any indication, I think we will enjoy this location very much," she teased.

"Do you know what I like about this house, mo chridhe?" William asked.

"The privacy?" she asked.

He chuckled. "Feel up for a swim?" he asked as he divested himself of his clothing. Giggling, she joined him.


They were in Santorini only a few days when the attorney called, informing them that Catherine's objections had all been handled and that Elizabeth's visa had been fully approved. However, they were there and had enjoyed exploring the islands so far and decided to enjoy their vacation. They had ventured into Fira the day before to explore some local restaurants and had enjoyed sampling the Ouzo some locals had offered them as they wandered the market.

Since Elizabeth loved to cook, they purchased some local ingredients that they would use for their meals while they were there. The kitchen had been stocked before their arrival, but Elizabeth enjoyed wandering through the open-air markets and discovering some ingredients she had never sampled before. They meandered through rows of plump, sun-ripened tomatoes, bundles of aromatic herbs, and baskets overflowing with luscious fruits, selecting those that caught their eyes.

As they selected the ingredients, Elizabeth's eyes gleamed with excitement. She couldn't resist reaching out to touch the perfectly ripe figs and juicy olives, taking in the textures and scents of these Mediterranean treasures. William was equally captivated by the array of cheeses, local wines, and artisanal bread. They engaged with the local vendors, most of whom were more than happy to share their culinary wisdom, providing insights into the art of crafting Santorinian dishes.

They returned to their villa with a basket brimming with local ingredients, ready to experiment. In the weeks since their marriage, William had become somewhat helpful in the kitchen, and together, they attempted several recipes and tasted the exotic flavors of the foods. Soon, they had put a meal together that was delicious and could be enjoyed with a panoramic view from the villa.

After two weeks of this—delightful trips into town and exploring the islands by land and water, delicious meals they prepared themselves and others enjoyed at restaurants, and much, much time alone together—they began their return trip to Scotland. They were tanned and relaxed and had purchased many gifts for their friends and family. Elizabeth had bought a few things for Charlotte and Mary, who would arrive in Inverness soon for the wedding.