Chapter 14

The pilot's voice just came over the intercom, telling Ned and Alexis that they will be landing in 10 minutes.

A- I don't want to move.

N- I don't want to, either.

But they get up and start to get dressed.

N- I hope you like it up here as much as I do. Here, let me help you with that.

Ned stands in front of her and buttons her blouse. She keeps her eyes locked on his.

A- Thanks.

N- I hope you brought some warm clothes; you'll need them.

A- (teasing) I will? I was under the impression that I'd hardly be leaving the suite.

N- (smiling) Just in case.

Pilot- Please fasten your seat belts and prepare for landing.

When they get off the plane, Alexis can see the peaks of the White Mountains.

N- We have a limo waiting in the front. This was the closest airport to North Conway. It's about an hours drive.

A- So, I can go to sleep?

N- If you want.

In the limo, Alexis lays down on the seat with her head resting on Ned's lap, eyes closed. He is stroking her hair and face.

N- You comfortable?

A- Mmm-hmm.

N- Good.

60 mins later. Alexis feels Ned gently shaking her.

N- Lexi, wake up. We're here.

Alexis slowly opens her eyes and sits up.

A- Oh. Ow! I have a crick in my neck.

Ned starts to massage her neck.

N- Is that better?

A- Feels good.

He starts to kiss her neck.

A- (smiling) Ned, not now. The chauffeur will be around any minute.

Alexis steps out of the car and looks at the snow-covered peaks of Mount Washington.

A- It's so beautiful.

She looks at Ned and gives him a hug. A- Thank you so much for bringing me here. I can already tell I'm going to love it.

N- You're welcome. C'mon, let's go get checked in.

Their chauffuer helps them bring their bags to the front desk. While Ned is registering, Alexis is looking around the lobby of the Mount Washington Hotel. When he is done he walks up to her and takes her hand.

N- Let's go up to the suite.

A- Sure. It's nice here.

Their suit is on the top floor. It has a view of the mountains and a fireplace.

N- Why don't you test out the bed with me?

A- I'd love too.

She jumps on the bed next to Ned.

A- It's soft.

N- Want to test it some more?

A- Maybe later. I want to know what there is to do up here.

N- Lots. Skiing, shopping, train rides, there's a pool and a jacuzzi downstairs, and ice skating. Oh, there's this beautiful place called Nestlenook that I'll take you to.

A- Really? When?

N- Soon. We only have a few days. But I have something I want do tonight. You aren't too tired, are you?

A- No. So, where are we going?

N- Well, well. Aren't you excited. It's a surprise. We had better get going. Oh, dress warm.

A- You know, you are too much.

She hugs him.

A- I love you, Ned.

N- I love you, too, Alexis.


Chapters 15-16