Long Time Running

by Foster, Hannah

  Happy, joyful tears slid down her cheeks as she stared in wonder at the young boy in front of her. Eric squeezed her hand and it was as though, all at once, she felt fully joined to him.

  "What do you say Nat?" he asked softly. "Will you marry Jack and me?"

  She nodded tearfully, still not trusting herself to speak. Jack thrust the ring at his father. "I think you hafta put this on her finger now," he told him.

  Laughing, Eric removed the emerald cut diamond and slid it on her ring finger. He kissed her softly. "I love you" he whispered. "My heart is beyond full."

  She kissed him back and then tugged Jack towards her, embracing him tightly. "I love you both so much" she said hoarsely, finally finding her voice. "I am so complete with both of you in my life."

  Jack sank into her lap and Eric wrapped them both in his arms. They were a family, united, bonded and loving. And finally, after a long night's journey into sunlight, Nathalie was at peace.