epilogue

It was a beautiful day outside. The water was crystal clear, there was barely any clouds in the sky, and the sounds of screaming people were just music to my ears. Hemming had judged a military vessel he deemed unworthy of being in his waters, so when they were out of range to the nearest ship, he hastily made his way underneath them and made his move.

This was the first time I saw him take down a ship, and I always imagined it to be far less beautiful than the new treat he is showing me. It almost made me think that he was showing off for me right now, and knowing Hemming, he probably is. The very thought warmed my heart. He’s such a romantic.

The ship was broken in half as giant tentacles wrapped around the pieces. The metal groaned and screeched almost as loud as the people still on board.

I wished Ulf was here with us, but he’s home and not as aquatic as us. Ulf was making an extravagant meal to celebrate my first full year with them. I gave them the green light to start this relationship a year ago tonight and I couldn’t be happier.

I was so glad I took the chance. They have shown me collectively how someone loved another so fully and unconditionally. They gave me the ability to be at peace and have the space to finally heal without any expectation of me shoving my feelings back for the sake of others.
Just like they gave me the space to heal, I gave them the comfort and gentle touch they so desperately needed all these years. They were finally so open with themselves as if I was the puzzle piece that they needed to finally feel completely at home with one another despite their long and shared history. There was many a night where I played couple therapist for the two of them, but I didn’t mind; it would always end in a gigantic cuddle pile, much to my pleasure and that of my boys.

A man jumped overboard as silently as possible as if silence would allow him to escape Hemming’s hold. Giggling, I started to make my way toward him. The water almost guided me by itself toward the escaping man.

If this was Take Your Mate To Work Day for Hemming, I couldn’t wait to see what Ulf had in store for me.