"I will. Like I've said before, you are mine, and I am yours. If you ever die, I'll follow you into the afterlife."
Ainsworth's grip on her waist tightened ever so slightly. Her answer hit him more deeply than she realized. She spoke casually, but every word was sincere.
He moved his hand to her cheek and held her face gently. "Ely… I won't die. I won't let that happen. So don't talk about following me anywhere."
Elyndra laughed lightly, brushing her nose against his. "You're the one who asked about eternity. I'm only keeping my promise."
Ainsworth exhaled slowly.
He leaned closer again, their foreheads touching. "Then… stay by my side forever."
"I already planned to," she whispered.
Ainsworth closed the small distance between them and kissed her again, this time deeper and more lingering than before.
Elyndra wrapped her arms around his neck and returned them just as naturally, as if the promise of eternity had settled into her heart.
