Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
I sighed, "Can't you just tell me where we're going?"
"I would, but I dunno where we're going."
"What do you mean? Are we lost?"
"Nah, we ain't lost. I just don't think the place we're goin' has a name. Just trust me."
The sun started sinking just as the old truck pulled over and lurched to a stop. I got out, dirt pluming out from under my feet. I leaned my back against the side of the truck, looking over he edge of the cliff, onto a deep, lonely valley. It was gorgeous. So far away from neon lights, and loud music. The sky started to get dark just as my Texas man started a fire. He pulled out two chairs, sitting next to me. I sighed, looking up at the night sky. Without the stuffiness and light of a city, I could point out billions of stars. The purple and blue streaks seemed to hold the brightest ones.
I heard the hollow sound of Engie's guitar as he set it on his lap, taking off his left glove to tune the instrument, and properly hold down the strings. He leaned back, strumming gently. I sighed, a rush of adoration taking over, "How'd I end up with a man as handsome and thoughtful as you?"
He chuckled, "By beating the shit out of me."
"That was when we were on opposite teams. You and that damn gun of yours. Remember when your turret used to be aimed at me?"
He smiled, "Feels like a hundred years ago, don't it?"
I sighed, "I still don't know why you settled for someone like me."
He frowned, "How many times we gotta have this conversation? I didn't have to settle for you. I'm in love with you, darlin'. Being with you is my pleasure, honestly."
"Who taught you to be so good with words?"
"My momma."
I stood up, gently taking his guitar and setting it in my chair. I sat in his lap, wrapping my arms around his shoulders, as his rested around my hips. His welding goggles rested around his neck loosely. He looked up at me sweetly, "I love you."
I rested a cheek on his head, hugging him, "I love you too."
We sat in silence for nearly an hour. I loved being with him on nights like these, where the breeze is gentle and the moon is cooling. The stars seemed to sing in our names and all was right in our hearts. Nights like these reminded me that not everything was a fight, and that it was okay to let my guard down, and to be calm. Especially around someone I trust to never hurt me. The sound of fire cracking at the ground next to us, and the small buzzing of distant flies were the only noises besides our own pulses. Nights like these helped me remember that the world could still be beautiful.
