Chapter 48

After several false starts, winter’s reign ended, sending rivulets of water flowing down the mountain and filling the streams and rivers. Shoots of green peeked from behind rocks, and leaves unfurled on trees. The grass that dared to extend above the patches of remaining snow became more verdant daily. Life was refreshing itself after a wintry sleep.

Brook stood in front of the cabin, breathing deeply the warming air, relishing the end of the long, cold days. “I have to go home soon,” she spoke quietly.

Lance, standing behind her with his arms draped loosely around her waist, kissed the top of her head gently and whispered, “I know.”

“When do you think we can get off the mountain?”

“Soon. This week!” If the truth were to be told, they could have gotten off the mountain several times in the past two weeks. They had both delayed bringing up the subject.

Brook heard the sorrow in Lance’s voice. She turned, wrapped her arms around his waist, and laid her face against his chest, listening to his heart beat. “You know how much I care for you, don’t you?” She looked up into his face.

A tear glinted in the corner of one eye as he said, “Yes, I know. But you have your husband, and a life, to return to. I’ll be okay here after you go. I was fine before, wasn’t I?”

“Okay,” she said softly. “Well, let’s make the best of the last of our time together.” She took Lance by the hand and they returned to the cabin where they made soft, gentle love. “I love you,” Brook barely whispered into Lance’s shoulder.

“I love you, too, my sweet Brooklyn.”