Plus, I’ve incorporated more of a work-life balance where I’m making time for photography again. Jasper keeps his weekends free and we hop into his Jeep—I still haven’t parted with mine—and go exploring. We never have a plan; we go where the wind takes us, enjoying each other’s company and the beauty that is Colorado.

Then, for my birthday, Jasper surprised me with a trip for two to Alaska.

Apparently when I told him about my Alaskan dream, it spurred a story idea for him. But this time, instead of moving there while he writes, we’re going to experience a ten-day guided tour. It’s the best present anyone has ever gotten me and I couldn’t be more excited.

“You have all of your camera stuff, right?” he asks. He’s so protective of my creative time and it makes me love him even more. He knows it’s more than a hobby and he goes above and beyond to be sure that I have what I need to pursue my passion.

“Yup. It’s all tucked into my backpack so I don’t have to check it.” I follow him as we move to my and Daisy’s shared office, which we’re in the middle of renovating. “I can’t believe we’re going to Alaska!”

I’ve basically been squealing since I opened my present a week ago.

He stops before we reach the office, turning around, wrapping me tight in his arms, and kissing me senseless.

“What was that for?” I ask when I catch my bearings again. “Not that I’m complaining.”

Because wow.

Yes, please. More, please. Thank you.

“I can’t wait to spend this time with you.” His lips graze across my forehead. I’m so focused on him and the way his eyes darken as his voice drops with his confession that I don’t even notice the way he mindlessly pats the pocket of his coat as if he’s making sure something very important is still tucked safe and sound inside. “I’ve never been happier and I feel very lucky that I get to be the person by your side. Hopefully forever.”

“Definitely forever.”

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

This book was written not only in the middle of a global pandemic, but also in the aftermath of losing my mom. This was the hardest and most satisfying book I’ve written. In months that felt so dark and hopeless, I was able to get lost in Jasper and Drew’s love story. I explored with them, laughed with them, and processed my grief alongside Drew. So while I have a lot of people to thank for this, thank you, the reader, for allowing me the opportunity to go on this journey and trusting me enough to come along with me. I am forever grateful to you.