Page 16 of Stalked By the Accountant

After the last box is taped shut, I call the movers to confirm the time. Soon a team of burly men haul our possessions into a truck bound for our new home. Our new beginning.

Becca slips her hand in mine as we watch the truck disappear down the street. "Let's go home," she says.

I smile, my heart swelling. Home. A place made of more than walls and a roof. A sanctuary built of trust, compassion, and love.

With her by my side, I'm already there.

* * *

Becca and I step through the front door of our new home, the smell of fresh paint greeting us. Our footsteps echo on the hardwood floors as we do a quick tour, envisioning where our furniture will go.

"The living room gets great light," Becca says, walking to the large bay window overlooking the street. "Perfect spot for reading."

I come up behind her, wrapping my arms around her waist. "And cuddling," I add with a grin.

She turns and kisses me softly. "Yes, definitely that."

We get to work unpacking, bantering playfully as we organize boxes. Becca squeals as I chase her around with a bubble wrap roll, popping it loudly. Laughter fills the empty space, the sound of our new life beginning.

After stocking the kitchen with dishes and cookware, we step outside to explore the neighborhood, hand in hand. The sun is shining, the sky a brilliant blue.

"Oh, look!" Becca exclaims, pointing to a quaint coffee shop on the corner. The smell of roasted beans wafts out the propped-open door.

I guide her inside where we order iced coffees. Sipping our drinks, we walk further, discovering a used bookstore, bakery, and small market to stock up on groceries later.

Turning down a tree-lined street, we find a grassy park dotted with benches and a playground. Children squeal as they chase each other across the jungle gym.

Becca squeezes my hand, her eyes bright. "We'll bring our kids here someday."

My heart swells at the thought. "I can't wait," I reply, pulling her close. "And I can't wait to get you home and start making our little family."

Becca blushes prettily, and my chest swells with pride.

Mywife.

We circle back as the sun starts to set, walking beneath hanging flower boxes overflowing with bursts of color outside the shops.

"I'm so happy we're doing this together," Becca says softly.

"Me too, beautiful.” I stop and caress her cheek. "This is just the beginning for us."

She kisses me tenderly, a promise of many more to come.

EPILOGUE II

One Year Later

Jack

I openthe front door and the savory aroma of garlic and herbs fills the air. Candles flicker on the dining table, illuminating Becca's radiant smile.

"Surprise," I say, unveiling a platter of chicken piccata, her favorite.

"You didn't have to do all this," Becca says, wrapping her arms around my neck.

"I always want my wife to feel special."

I pull out her chair and she sits. We toast with glasses of white wine, the tang bursting on my tongue.

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