Finally, Jamie rose from the floor, effortlessly lifting her in his arms. He carried her to the settle, settling down with her cradled on his lap. The door of the cottage remained open, revealing the night sky and the twinkling stars that dotted the valley below. At that moment, as they gazed at the celestial expanse, their reunion felt timeless and sacred. They clung to one another, unwilling to let go, even for a moment.