The cold air had brought a rosy flush to Nicole's cheeks. She whispered, "Roscoe, once we bring Austin here, let's make this place his home."

Roscoe was shocked, taking a while to gather his thoughts. Happiness caught him off guard, like the snowfall today.

Over the last six months, Roscoe had clung to Nicole's words, understanding that her emotional wounds were deep and might not heal quickly, so he had never pressed the issue.

He had thought that even if Nicole never fully healed, living out their days like this wouldn't be too bad. He was prepared to protect her and Austin for a lifetime. Whether as a family member, an uncle, or a brother, he was content with any role.

Everyone harbored desires. Ignoring them didn't make them vanish.

"Nicole, this isn't a dream, is it?" With a sharp "slap," Roscoe hit himself, his cheek flushing red from the force.

Nicole flinched and reached to caress his cheek, asking softly, “Why would you do that to yourself?"

Grasping her hand firmly, Roscoe held it tight. "Nicole, could you repeat that? It feels like I'm dreaming."

Nicole could feel his hand shaking. She had pondered this decision for a long time. She had once tried to push Roscoe toward starting anew without her, but it hadn't taken root.

Austin needed a stable father figure, and Nicole needed someone who could help mend her brokenness. The thought that Roscoe might be that person breathed new life into her hopes. Knowing she was alive and wanting to live fully, moving forward was exactly what she needed to do. After all, Roscoe had already made significant strides toward her.

Today, she needed to muster her courage and take this step as well.

“Roscoe, I want to be with you. Would you..." Before Nicole could complete her thought, his lips gently pressed against her forehead.

It was a simple gesture, free of any intense desire, yet she clearly felt his tremor.

Roscoe felt that, for these words alone, risking his life a thousand times over would be worthwhile.

"Nicole, my dear Nicole, I love you." Cupping her face in his hands, his voice shook as he said, "I will love you and Austin all my life."

Nicole leaned her head against Roscoe's chest, feeling his heart beat rapidly, yet to her, it was the most reassuring sound in the world.

By Roscoe's side, Nicole felt a deep sense of security. He managed everything with such care and tenderness. At times, she almost believed he was older than her by several years.

She couldn't pinpoint exactly when he had won her heart. Maybe it was his refusal to swear on her name, or perhaps it was the night they escaped together, or maybe it was their first night in the mountain village by the bonfire, leaning on his reassuring presence...

And every day, from sunrise to sunset, whenever he came back smiling...

Each moment made her heart skip a beat.