From where she was, she could see the city lights below and the stars above. The place is like a small pocket of paradise. Pristine and quiet.
She continued walking towards the cottage. As she approached the door, she caught the aroma of her favorite dishes. This made her try to remember the significance of this day. She thought that maybe, a surprise for her is being prepared inside. However, no matter how she forced herself, she couldn't really recall any important event of today.
With a flip of her hair, she dismissed all thoughts and decided to simply go with the flow. There was no one in the living room when she entered so she followed her nose to the kitchen. A feast of some of her comfort food filled the table but there wasn't anyone there either.
She was about to trace back her steps when she heard footsteps ahead. She looked up to see her husband with a bouquet of yellow roses - her favorite bloom.
"You're here, just on time," said Cody with a smile walking towards her. He gave her the flowers, embracing her lightly as he placed a gentle peck on her forehead. She was enveloped with warmth by his actions.
"Thanks. But, what is today?" She asked, still really confused.
"Why, can't I give my beautiful wife a little surprise out of the blue?"
"Mmm, I guess you can. Thank you, I'm really touched. But, please, Cody, no more next time. You have a lot on your plate already..."
"Love, I'm just happy today, okay. Please indulge me. Today is a day worth celebrating..." but he did not spell that it is an anniversary he is celebrating. He has been celebrating that day alone for the last twenty-five years.
"Mmm-kay, if you say so," she said smilingly. She did not also push him to explain since it seemed that he was not ready to share more about that day.
"Go, wash your hands so we could dig in," he said.
She did as she was told and went to the table. He served her the food he himself prepared and they talked about the business in general. Although both were slightly disappointed with the topic deep inside, it was a "safe" one.
When they were done, they helped each other clean up the small kitchen and George found a vase for the roses. She placed them in the living room.
Then Cody asked her to take a stroll together. She readily agreed because she was particularly attracted to the surroundings earlier. They locked the doors and walked out of the cottage hand in hand.
In the earlier months, they made it a point to hold hands in public only. However, without them realizing, holding hands when they walk together developed into a habit.
He guided her around the property and as they walked a bit further away, they arrived at a gentle brook. A wooden bridge was conveniently built and the couple crossed to the other side. There was a tree there surrounded with wildflowers and fireflies abound.