Chapter 15

Ned and Alexis are back in the limo.

A- I can't even have a hint as to where we're going.

N- Nope.

A- I'll keep bothering you until you tell me.

N- I think I can do something about that.

He moves closer to her, but she pushes him away.

A- You were about to kiss me so I'd be quiet.

N- Guilty as charged, counsellor. So, how are you going to punish me?

A- Let's see. The punishment should fit the crime. I'll have to think about that.

N- Oh, we're here.

At the exact moment the chauffeur opened the door a sleigh with a team of horses pulled up. Alexis is speechless, but Ned is talking to her.

N- This is Nestlenook. The have ice skating and cross-country skiing here.

A- It's like a winter wonderland.

N- Your chariot awaits.

Ned follows her into the sleigh. Before the driver starts, he reaches under the seat and pulls out a bottle of champagne and two glasses. He fills the glasses and hands one to Alexis.

A- Thank you.

N- A toast.

A- To what?

N- To us.

A- And to being free from our families, even if you have to go back to yours.

N- I could always run away with you.

They smile at each other as their glasses clink. After she takes a sip, Alexis leans back against Ned, who puts his arm around her.

Chapter 16

N- How did you like the sleigh ride?

A- I loved it.

N- I was hoping you would.

Ned had never seen Alexis happier. He was glad he could make her happy.

N- Do you want to walk around the grounds before we leave? A- Yes. I love it here. Can we come back tomorrow?

N- Of course.

She was like a little kid here. Ned liked this side of her.

A- It's so magical.

N- I don't think this place has worked all of it's magic yet.

Alexis was looking around and didn't hear him. So he picked up a handful of snow and threw it at her.

A- Hey!

But she starts laughing and throws snow at him. Soon, they are in a middle of a snowball fight.

A- What did you say before we started *fighting*?

N- I said that this place hasn't worked all of it's magic.

He holds out his hand and she takes it. He pulls her to him and kisses her.

N- That's better.

A- Much. Do you want to go back to the hotel? I have a surprise for you.

N- Sure. Let's go.

In the car, Alexis picks up her phone and tells whoever is on the other end that she is on her way.

N- What was that about?

A- You'll see.

N- I can't pry it out of you.

A- Nope. Put it this way: we've both had a long day and we need something relaxing.

N- I'm clueless.

A- Good.

When they get to the hotel, Alexis takes Ned's hand and walks slowly.

N- You are torturing me!

A- So now being with me is torture?

N- I didn't say that.

A- Hmm, I can't seem to find my keys.

N- You're lucky that I have mine.

A- C'mon, it's this way.

She leads him to the bathroom. He sees that the bathtub is filled with bubbles.

N- You are amazing.

He picks her up and swings her around.

A- Would you like to take a bath with me, Mr. Ashton?

N- I thought you'd never ask, Ms. Davis.


Chapter 17