Epilogue
Ray
I wake up from my nap to the sounds of the Atlantic coming from the open sliding glass door. Through the opening, I see my girlfriend sipping from a mug and staring out at the Cape Cod beach we are lucky to be staying next to.
Rolling off the couch, I walk out onto the deck and wrap my arms around Artio from behind.
“There’s Mr. Sleepyhead,” she teases.
I nuzzle my face into the back of her neck.
“I have a thing for naps while on vacation.”
Artio sips her tea and lets out a contented sigh.
“This was such a great idea. Such perfect June weather. I always wanted to visit the Cape, and this town is so quaint. Thank you for suggesting it.”
“You really should thank Enid. She insisted we stay out here. She knew you’d be comfortable as a shifter and, of course, she lived here for many years.”
“I'm amazed she left. It’s so gorgeous.”
Sliding my hand into the back pocket of her jeans, I give her round cheek a squeeze.
“Maybe we’ll be able to buy a timeshare here someday.”
“Oh, yes. Or we can retire here. Be adorable Town of Sea Glass retirees like that couple walking toward the rocks.”
Kissing her neck quickly, I excuse myself for a minute. Her last comment inspires me to do something I have been waiting to do this entire vacation. I tuck a small box into my side pocket and ask Artio to go for a walk on the beach with me.
Hand in hand, we walk along the sand until I notice the perfect spot.
“Lets walk out on the rock jetty. It’s low tide.”
“Okay, handsome.”
We walk along the rocks until she stops to savor the salty breezes. I take this opportunity to kneel behind her.
“Artio?”
My love turns to me, her face brightening at the sight of the ring. She immediately lowers to her knees in front of me.
“I want to look into those green eyes while you ask me,” she whispers.
“Artio Baer, I will always be incredibly grateful that you were willing to help me make what we thought were my grandmother’s last days full of joy from seeing her two boys happy and in love. Who knew that a fake relationship could turn into something so real and good? Will you marry me, my love?”
Artio's kisses cover my face as she repeatedly cries, "Yes!" Helping her stand up, I slide the ring onto her finger.
After several selfies together, I pull out my phone.
“Who are you calling, future hubs?”
“Grandma. She is going to love this news.”