The news of the Führer's death had come just a few days after Elli's birthday. It was so welcome. Now they were well and truly ready to push on to Berchtesgaden.

Elli and Anna said a very heartfelt goodbye to Rosa. It was hard to see her and Gabby part. Even though Gabby insisted it was time to go home, she would clearly miss her mother. She kissed and hugged her goodbye, then climbed onto the truck with everyone else. All the boys waved to Rosa, Abe holding Elli as she continued waving as the truck pulled out of the town.

It didn't take them long to reach the outskirts of Berchtesgaden. It wasn't far away at all. They did have to wait for hours before finally getting into the town itself. Other Allied troops had already taken it and were now pushing on to the Eagle's Nest.

When their trucks arrived, Gabby asked Hollywood and Abe to help take their things and began leading them just outside of the town centre. Elli stayed up ahead with Gabby as she led the way. Gabby had promised Elli her own room and she was chatting to her about it. Hatcher had said in exchange for her help and for housing Anna and Elli, that they would leave her property be. It was common practice for the Americans to take over houses to have somewhere to stay, and Gabby was relieved it wouldn't affect her.

Hollywood went ahead with them as well, trying his best to leave Anna and Abe alone. They were happy dawdling and bringing up the rear. They were discussing what they could get up to here in this new town.

"Well, it will be far more peaceful here," sighed Abe contentedly. "With the big guy dead, fighting ain't gonna last much longer. Then it will just be occupation for a while."

"That all suits me just fine," said Anna.

"You don't mind your country being taken over by us Yanks for a while, then?"

"It does not feel like it is my country," she admitted. "It hasn't for many years."

"So, do you not think you'll stay here, then?" 

"We do not have anywhere else to go."

"But, say you did," he ventured. "Would you wanna leave if there was a better option?" Was he hinting at something?

"I suppose I would," she said quietly, his grin spreading. They were quiet for a moment.

"So," he said, changing the subject, "what do you reckon the bars are like here?"

"No idea. But give Hollywood an evening, and I'm sure he will be able to tell you."

Abe chuckled, Anna tittering too. "Maybe there will be somewhere to go dancin'," he suggested. "Do you like dancin'?"

"With the right company, I do."

"Do I count as that?"

"Most certainly," she replied, their eyes locking again.

"Then, I'd love to take you... if you were up for it." He mumbled his words when he got nervous. Anna found it entirely endearing.

"I'd love to go, if you asked me," she said, both of them smiling again.

"We're here," called Gabby, both of their gazes snapping forward now. She had stopped in front of a huge house. It was glorious, the whole thing surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens. There were steps leading up to the front door, everything ornate and perfectly kept.

"Damn," said Abe, looking up at it in awe.

"Now, you're about to meet my sister-in-law," explained Gabby. "She's been looking after the house since my husband passed away. I sent her a letter to say we were coming, but I have no idea if she's received it."

"I'm sure it will be fine," Anna reassured her.

They all trudged up the front steps, Gabby going to open the front door. It wouldn't budge. She pulled out a key and tried that, but it still wouldn't move. She seemed confused.

"Listen to me, you damn Yanks," called a muffled voice from the other side of the door. "I already told you, you are not coming in! This is my sister-in-law's house, and she's bringing American troops with her-"

"Heidi, you fool, it's me!" hissed Gabby.

There was suddenly a large scrape from the other side of the door before it was thrown open. A beautiful blonde woman was standing before them. She was perfectly dressed and styled, just as Gabby always was. Except this woman was overly glamorous. "Gabby!" she cried and threw her arms around her. "I'm so glad it's you! Don't you fret, I've been holding down the fort for you!"

"So I see," replied Gabby, now looking at the drink in her hand. "Enjoying my schnapps, are we?"

"Don't be silly! I finished that before Christmas," laughed Heidi. She peered around at everyone else. "You must be Anna and Elli!" she said, pulling them both into a tight hug that surprised them both. "I'm Heidi."

"Nice to meet you," said Anna politely. Then cleared her throat. "You speak English?"

"Oh yes," she laughed. "Silly me, I forgot to switch."

"This is Abraham," said Anna, gesturing to Abe who nodded. "And this is-"

"Lieutenant Matthew Whiting," Hollywood cut across as he pushed forward and took her hand.

"Ooh a Lieutenant," she gushed, pulling herself a little closer to him. "So pleased to meet you, sir."

"Please, ma'am," he said, his accent even thicker than usual, "y'all can call me Hollywood."

"I love that," she replied. "Hollywood, won't you come and join me for a drink in the drawing room? You must be thirsty after your journey?"

"Terribly so." He followed her inside whilst the others stayed rooted to the doorstep. Gabby sighed, then turned and looked apologetically at the rest of them.

"I should have warned you what she was like," she said slowly, Abe fighting a great urge to laugh.

"She seems... sweet," said Anna.

Gabby shot her a look. "Come on, let's get you to your rooms." Then she raised her voice. "Then we can all have a drink!" All of them grinning, they went in and began to explore their home for the foreseeable future.

***

The next few days were a real joy. Anna and Elli still found it odd to sleep apart, but they knew they would have to get used to it again at some point. The other Americans had all come to make their introductions to Heidi, though Hollywood made it terribly plain that he had 'called dibs'.

Heidi was certainly the life of any party. She and Elli had spent the first day playing dress up with her extensive wardrobe and make up and Gabby and Anna enjoyed getting involved as well. Heidi seemed very much a good time girl, but it was still clear that, despite their differences, she and Gabby got along incredibly well. She befriended the neighbours, something that Gabby had never tried to do. Heidi was able to introduce Elli to them, as they had a girl called Inge around Elli's age. Anna enjoyed seeing Elli interact with someone her own age. It was incredibly sweet. It also meant that she was able to spend a little more time with Abe on her own.

Gabby's house was near the Königseer Ache, so they often walked together along the water's edge. There was a particular bridge they went to so they could look at the running water. Something abut the thrash of the water truly soothed Anna. Perhaps it was the cloak it provided to her conversations with Abe, but she was certain it was something more. The greenery that surrounded their spot seemed lighter and freer than anywhere else they had been. Tranquillity enveloped them here, nothing untoward hidden within the trees or stream. It was honest, and serene.

They stood there on the morning of the 8th of May. Eisenhower had accepted Germany's surrender the day before, and now the town was filled with celebrating troops. Many of the German people were happy with an end to the fighting in Europe, but it was still a strange day for them. Abe wanted to make sure Anna was happy, and she most certainly was.

"It's been an awful six years," she sighed, staring at the water. "I'm exceedingly glad it's all over."

"Not for the boys in the Pacific. The Japs don't seem to wanna give in."

"More fool them," said Anna, now looking at Abe. "You paratroopers won't be called to the Pacific, will you?"

His expression fell a little. "I honestly don't know. Depends if they need us. Right now, we're needed here for the occupation. So, I think we've got some time."

"That is a relief," she said earnestly.

Abe smiled at her and cleared his throat. "So, y'all excited for the get together that Heidi is planning?"

"Yes! Though, not as excited as Elli. Heidi took her into town yesterday to get a new dress and everything."

"I'm glad she's happy. Did you not go and get one?"

"With what money?" laughed Anna, then sighed heavily. "I really should do something about that. Maybe they have jobs going here."

"Gabby and Heidi would never let you go without," insisted Abe. "And they have plenty of money by the looks."

"Yes, but I will not stay with them forever," reminded Anna. "I need to think of a way to support Elli and myself."

Abe made to say something but stopped himself. Anna studied him as he fidgeted uncomfortably for a moment before he released a long held breath. "I'm sure you'll think of something. You always do." He checked his watch. "I've got patrol, we'd better head back."

Anna nodded glumly. She hated that she didn't get him to herself all day long. They walked together up the path, still chatting the entire way. Anna noticed the glares she got from a lot of the residents. She knew there had been a lot of patriots here, and they clearly didn't like her being with an American. Once upon a time, she would have felt the need to shy away from their reproachful looks. Instead, she slipped her hand in Abe's, ignoring them all so she concentrated solely on him.

They finally stopped outside the house, Abe waving to Elli and Inge who ran around in the garden. "I'll swoop by to pick you up later. That way we can all walk down together."

"Is it bad to admit that I am looking forward to seeing you in your smart uniform?"

"My A Class," he corrected her with a grin. "And no, you can say it as often as you like."

Anna smiled. "Good to know."

"And what will you be wearin'?" he asked, stepping closer.

"Most likely one of the only two dresses I own," she teased.

"Good thing I like lookin' at you anyway then," he said, then they both fell quiet. So many things managed to escape his mouth nowadays. It would be a lie to say that Anna didn't love it. "Well, see you later," he mumbled, turning to go.

Anna caught his hand. She stood up on her toes, pecking his cheek lightly. "See you later," she promised, then dashed inside.

***

Anna glared at herself in the mirror.

This was the first time she had thought about her appearance in many months. She really didn't like the way she looked. Heidi and Gabby had lent her some make up, and she had accentuated her features a little. But she didn't want to return to that horrible China doll she had been before. The problem was her face still bore faint traces of the beatings she had taken, and her hair was too short for her liking and her clothes ill fitting. Rosa had been very sweet to donate another dress to her before they had left, but it was a little tight across the chest for her. Anna just felt self-conscious, and awkward. But she desperately wanted to look good for Abe.

Elli came and stood beside her, looking at her glum expression. "You look very pretty, you know."

Anna smiled and kissed her hand. "Thank you, sweet girl."

"You should be happy!" Elli urged. "The war is over... no more fighting." She paused. "And Hollywood told me that they're not going anywhere any time soon. So that's good, isn't it?"

Anna pulled her onto her lap and kissed her cheek. "Yes, it is."

"Will you dance with Abe tonight," asked Elli eagerly.

"Perhaps," said Anna, then added quickly, "I suspect I shall dance with all of them."

Elli sighed irritably, looking up at Anna. "He won't ask you to marry him if you dance with everyone."

Anna blushed and nudged Elli off her lap. "I knew it! You love him, don't you?"

Anna brushed through her hair. "Elli, stop it."

"Why can't you just admit it?" asked Elli, then looked at Anna more closely as Anna avoided her. "You're still wearing his necklace-"

Anna tried to ignore her, doing her best to style her hair simply.

"I think you should take it off."

"Elli," Anna said with a sigh, now turning to look at her. "I know you're trying to help. But please, my darling girl, will you leave it be? This is not a simple case of a couple falling in love, all right?"

There was a small silence.

"I want you to be happy," mumbled Elli, "and Abe makes you happy. Why would you want to spend the rest of your life being miserable, just because you loved somebody else before?"

Anna's heart pined. Is this how Hans had felt when Anna had said the same thing to him all that time ago? Had it been this difficult for him to forget the past? It wasn't the hurt that stuck in her mind at that moment.

It was his smiling face as he leant in to kiss her goodnight.

It was his voice in her ear as they watched the rain together.

It was his expression as he played the cello.

Tears welled in Anna's eyes as her hand rested over the ring around her neck. "It's difficult to explain, but, you make a very good point." With a small, but determined sigh, she unfastened the necklace, and lay it gently on the dresser. "I think it's time, wouldn't you agree?"

Elli beamed, flinging her arms around Anna, when Heidi and Gabby burst into the room.

"Oh no, Anna!" cried Heidi, laying dresses on the bed. "You can't go in that thing! Borrow something of mine! We're a similar size!"

"Yes, but you're so glamorous," said Anna. "What's your plainest thing you have?"

"Don't you want to dazzle everyone?" asked Heidi, terribly confused.

"I think Anna's only concerned about one person," teased Gabby, nudging her lightly.

"I want to look like myself," confirmed Anna. "As much as I can, anyway."

"Urgh, fine," sighed Heidi. "Come with me, we'll find you something." She took Anna's hand, and dragged her through the house, Gabby and Elli in tow.

Downstairs, the men were looking curiously around the drawing room. Sam was looking at the artwork adorning the walls, Hollywood picking out a record to put on the gramophone. Abe was drumming his fingers against the window, seemingly nervous. He'd only just stopped pacing back and forth. Both of them noticed and came and sat with him.

"Y'all right, big fella?" asked Hollywood.

"Just tryna think of what to say to Anna," he murmured.

"Why say anythin'?" scoffed Hollywood. "Just dance with her, and when the moment strikes, kiss her."

"Well gosh, if it's really that simple, then you've nothing to worry about Abe!" said Sam sarcastically, rolling his eyes.

"I don't wanna push her," explained Abe. "But I wanna tell her how I feel-" He groaned and rubbed his temples. "This is so fuckin' frustratin'!"

"The best women always are," said Hollywood, slapping him on the back. Then they heard a rush of footsteps descending the stairs.

"Good luck," said Sam quickly.

Elli ran straight in and twirled for them all. "What do you think?" she asked, showing off the dress Heidi had bought for her. They all chorused together, telling her how beautiful she was. She ran straight to Abe, taking his hand. "You look so smart!"

"I try my best," he grinned, squeezing her hand lightly.

"Wait until you see Anna," she whispered, grinning up at him.

Abe looked up to see the three women walk in. The other two were entirely glamourous, both perfectly painted and put together. But his eyes were only on Anna. She wore a light blue dress, her hair loose and bouncing. Elli kept her eyes on him. His expression was dreamy, and it delighted her.

Anna was transfixed too.

She'd never seen Abe in anything other than his combat uniform. But his A Class looked so different. He looked so incredibly handsome, his large, imposing shoulders greatly accentuated by the sharp cut of the jacket. He stepped forward to her, leaving Elli with Sam as he came to meet her. Everyone was watching them, and they were entirely oblivious to it.

"Abe, you look so handsome," she said, unable to hide her grin.

"Thanks," he said, "you too." Then winced. "I mean, beautiful."

"That was smooth Abe," encouraged Hollywood.

Abe rolled his eyes and shot him a glare.

"I knew what you meant," assured Anna.

Abe smiled at her gratefully, holding his arm out to her, which she took. He turned to look at Elli.  "Come on, El." He stuck his hand out for her as she scurried over.

Anna beamed. She adored how he always included Elli. The best part was, she knew he was doing it because he wanted to. Elli was never an afterthought to him. It made her heart soar.

They all wandered down to the town, Elli babbling away to the group as they walked. The allied troops' celebrations were in full swing, many of the Germans joining in also. It seemed everyone was glad of an end to the fighting in Europe. Anna pulled herself as close to Abe as she could, her head rested on his arm. He couldn't help but grin, his eyes constantly flicking to her.

As they reached the town centre, Heidi pulled them all into the bar, all of them already having to fight their way through as it was so packed. Hollywood scooped Elli up, pretending to use her as a battering ram so that she squealed with delight. Abe kept Anna pulled against him as they followed Heidi to where Ewie, Frenchie and the others were sitting. They all cheered at the sight of them, pouring them each a drink from the jugs of beer they had. Elli immediately tried to take a sip from Hollywood's stein, but Anna scolded her and stopped them both. Elli consented to sit with Sam, Ewie and Gabby, all of them chatting happily.

Anna stood with Abe, watching everything. Her eyes wandered to Hollywood and Heidi, who were both flirting outrageously.

"That didn't take very long, did it?" Anna gestured to them.

"Well, he's known her a few days now. I'd say he was taking things pretty slow," grinned Abe, Anna returning it. "It ain't gonna be anythin' serious, that's for sure. They're both as loose as each other."

"As long as they both have fun," sighed Anna.

There was a small, awkward pause. Neither seemed to want to comment on how it was the opposite of their situation. Abe couldn't help but admire her for a moment. Then he noticed; she was no longer wearing her necklace. Anna saw. He clearly wanted to say something but thought better of it. He never liked drawing attention to Hans.

"You really do look beautiful tonight," said Abe finally.

Anna's eyes locked on his. "So do you," she teased, both of them smiling. "Heidi lent me the dress. It's a bit too much for me, but it was a sweet gesture."

"Don't y'all like gettin' dressed up?"

"Of course I do. It's just that I prefer simpler clothes, you know?"

"Well you don't need to hide behind the glamour, I guess. You're so pretty without it," he said, the words tumbling from his mouth. "I prefer plainer clothes too," he recovered. "I just lived in jeans and heavy boots back home. Workin' on the farm, you had to be practical. Only had one suit. Barely ever wore it."

"This A Class certainly suits you though," she said, then thought. "But I think I should like to see you in your farm clothes."

"You comin' back with Elli as well then?"

"Am I invited?"

"Yeah, you are," he said earnestly.

Before Anna could reply, an upbeat dance number started and several of the men grabbed a partner and headed to the dancefloor. Hollywood ran past with Heidi.

"Come on you two!" he said, Heidi laughing as they charged off.

Abe looked at Anna, noting that she was apprehensive. He cleared his throat, looking around her. "Hey, El," he called. "Can I have the first dance?"

Elli ran over, taking his hand as she looked up at Anna. "Do you mind?"

"Not at all," smiled Anna, definitely relieved. She hated the idea that everyone would watch them; it embarrassed her. Elli pulled Abe away, who shot her another dazzling smile before they disappeared into the sea of people. Ewie and Gabby got up to dance as Anna sat beside Sam, both of them watching all the couples.

"Did you not want to dance?" he asked her.

"It's very public," she explained. "It puts so much pressure on the moment."

"That's understandable."

There was a pause.

"Do you think Abe will mind?" asked Anna nervously.

"Not at all. He wants you to be comfortable."

Another pause.

"He's never thought this hard about anything in his life. But you should know, he considers everything he does when it comes to you and Elli. Your happiness is always put first."

Anna smiled, her heart pounding in her chest.

Tread stepped up to her, holding out his hand. "Miss, you can't not dance." grinned, placing her hand in his, and letting him lead her to the dancefloor.

Abe glanced up to see Anna and Tread dancing and his smile spread. She seemed far more carefree. No matter how much he wished it was him holding her, he was so happy that she wasn't missing out.

"What are you smiling at?" asked Elli.

Abe scooped her up so that she could see, still dancing with her.

"She should be dancing with you," sighed Elli frustratedly. 

"Don't worry El, it'll happen."

"Promise?"

"Cross my heart."

"Did you see she's not wearing her necklace?"

"I did. Is she all right? It's not broken or anything?"

"She doesn't want to wear it anymore."

"Why's that, you reckon?"

"You, you silly!" cried Elli, Abe's grin spreading and his eyes growing warm. "You do love her, don't you Abe?"

He laughed a little. "You're so forward, little miss," he scolded playfully.

Elli's eyes burned into him, urging him for an answer.

"If I'm gonna say it El, it needs to be to her."

Elli beamed, hugging him close. When the song ended, everyone applauded. Anna planted a kiss on Tread's cheek, thanking him for looking after her. Then Abe and Elli collected her, and they returned to their table.

The group carried on the celebrations for a good few hours, the beer flowing readily. Abe was on the bourbon now, he and Hollywood enjoying the only bottle behind the bar between them.

Anna looked at Elli. She was clearly tired, but wouldn't give in. "Come on, sweet girl. Let's get you home."

"No!" whined Elli. "We need to stay."

"You're exhausted!" insisted Anna.

Gabby came over. "Anna, I'm tired too. I'll take Elli back, you stay."

"Are you sure?" asked Anna.

Gabby's eyes flicked up to Abe who was chatting to Ewie and Marv. "You deserve a bit of time alone, don't you think? Come on, Elli." She pulled the little girl to her feet.

Elli hugged Anna goodnight. "You'd better dance with him," she said sleepily.

Anna smiled as she kissed her cheeks, then watched as Elli went to say goodbye to Abe. The giant gave her a bear hug as he kissed her forehead. As Gabby and Elli left, he came over to Anna.

"Still going strong then?" he asked.

"I do not know about strong, but I am still going," she said.

He grinned. "What can I get you to drink?"

"Whatever you are drinking."

He poured her a small glass and handed it to her. "Y'all ever tried bourbon?"

"No," she said, "but I am hoping tonight is a night of firsts." His eyes widened, and she lifted her glass to his, clinking them together. She felt confident, the alcohol already in her system taking away her foolish inhibitions. Smelling it, she took a sip and tried not to grimace too much.

Abe laughed. "Here." He took the glass from her and got her a glass of the champagne going around.

"I do not think I am cut out for hard liquor," she sighed, taking a large gulp of champagne to wash away to awful taste of bourbon.

"Drink what you want. Why waste your time on things y'all don't like?"

"Excellent point."

"I'm really glad you stayed."

"So am I. Now I get you all to myself."

He took her hand in his, kissing it lightly. "If that's what you want, you only gotta ask."

"Will you sit with me?" she asked, looking at the empty table in the corner. He nodded, his arm around her as they wandered over.

They continued talking for a long time and the numbers in the bar finally dwindled. Soon, it was really only their company and a few stragglers left. It had to be the early hours of the morning now.

Anna was sitting beside Abe in the corner, both enjoying having one another's undivided attention. They kept the drinks flowing, Anna enjoying the freedom of the moment. She felt so truly carefree. When she was with Abe, it was as if the troubles in her past had never happened. Anna noticed that he told her more and more about Missouri, and his mother and the farm. She told him so much about her parents, and the happy times she had kept hidden for so many years. It was refreshing to speak about them out loud.

They didn't see Hollywood go over to the little piano in the corner of the room, Heidi encouraging him to play something. He looked up at Anna and Abe, smiling smugly as he realised what he should play.

As his fingers hit the keys, Abe's grin spread across his whole face, Anna smiling at him too.

"What is it?" she asked.

"This song," he sighed.

"I don't know it."

"It's called 'Georgia on My Mind," he explained. "Our training camp was in Georgia. Hollywood used to play it to get the locals to sing along."

"That's so lovely," she smiled.

He looked at her, then got to his feet. "Dance with me," he said softly, holding his hand out to her.

Anna looked around the bar. Nobody else was up, the other men just relaxing and chatting to one another.

"I wanna share it with you," he explained, seeing her reverence. "And this is the best way I know how."

Tentatively, she reached out and took his hand, letting him tug her to her feet. He didn't bother to move further out, just pulling her into him gently. His arm wrapped around her waist, the other clasping her hand to his chest as they turned, softly. Despite her excitement, Anna felt so at ease. Abe always made her feel calm and light, like nothing could touch her. She looked up at him for a little while, enjoying the happiness in his expression. When he began to hum the tune, she pressed her cheek to his chest.

"Sorry, I'll stop," he murmured.

"No! Don't!" she mumbled, looking up at him again briefly. "I like the sound the hum makes in your chest."

Abe kissed the top of her head before he began again, Anna tucking herself back into that snug embrace. His hand spread across her back, as if to make as much of himself as close to her as possible.  They couldn't see Hollywood and Heidi grinning at each other, both triumphant that they had finally come together. They didn't care now if everyone was watching them.

Anna gripped his jacket tighter, Abe responding by resting his cheek on the top of her head. She could do this for hours... anything to be close to him. Anna pulled back a little to look at him again. Her eyes poured over his face, enjoying the familiar and welcome sight. She adored the way his eyes creased when he smiled at her, and his faint freckles and his round nose. He was handsome and sweet all at once.

She wondered, again, what it would be like to kiss him. The anticipation tingled on her own lips, a sensation she wanted to drown in. She hadn't felt this since Hans.

It's why she couldn't help but falter.

The last time she had danced like this was with him. She had wanted to be consumed by her feelings for him too. But this was different.

She wasn't afraid of rejection. She was afraid of forgetting.

Anna suddenly sprang back; her heart filled with guilt. How could she just let go of a person like that?

"Anna?" Abe said, confused. "Baby, what's wrong?"

"I can't-" she managed. "Sorry." Then turned and ran out of the bar.

Anna strode back across the town centre, trying desperately not to cry. Her chest was unbearably tight, the image of Hans' smiling face devouring her thoughts. His smile had once been the greatest sight in the entire world, the feel of his arms around her like the most delicious flames licking her body. Abe felt different. Nothing raged inside her with him. His embrace was like returning home after an arduous journey. It was what she imagined it would be like if she could ever step inside the threshold of her parent's home in Berlin again. It was an old, deep rooted feeling. Hans had always been something new.

Anna heard someone behind her.

"Anna! Wait!" Abe had followed her. He managed to get in front of her to block her path. "Anna, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to upset you."

"You didn't," she assured him. "It's not you. How could it be? You are so wonderful-"

"Then why did you run away from me?"

"You would not understand."

"Then help me to!" he begged, taking her hand. "You know I'd never want to do anything to hurt you."

"Of course, I do," she said, tears falling down her cheeks. "And that makes it harder."

"Makes what harder?"

"I want you!" she cried, the words echoing through the empty street as she wiped her cheeks, furiously.

He stared at her. "Ain't that a good thing? 'Cause I want you too. In every possible way you could ever want another person." He made to touch her cheek, but she stepped out of reach. "Baby why are you pullin' away from me?" he said, his voice pained.

"I don't know that I am ready."

"For what?"

"To feel this way," she mumbled. "This is so different and yet so familiar, and I don't know! I just don't know."

"Is it because I ain't him?" he blurted.

"Abe-"

"Wait, don't answer that." He was incredibly flustered. "I don't wanna know."

"It's not that simple."

"I know we ain't known each other long. I know that this is all sudden. It is for me as well. But I just-" He trailed off, his fists clenched in frustration. His eyes caught hers, and all Anna could see was longing. It wasn't the possessive love that brimmed in the steely grey of Hans' gaze. This was fierce and tender all at once.

"I wish I was ready," Anna managed. "I just don't know how to be." There was a long silence, both of them unmoving. "Please say something."

"I don't wanna say the wrong thing."

"It won't be wrong. Please, tell me what you're thinking."

"I'm thinking to hell with where we've both been. To hell with everything that came before you. I don't wanna keep dwellin' on the past. I just want a future with you and Elli!"

Anna's stomach twisted into a tight knot.

Abe finally closed the distance between them. He looked shaken and nervous; it was so out of character for him. "Anna, please. Please, tell me what I should do?" His voice was pleading, his hands gripping her arms desperately.

Without being able to stop herself, her hands clasped his face and she kissed him completely and unreservedly. She was consumed by him the moment their lips touched. It wasn't simple desire that drew her in, but something far deeper she couldn't explain. His arms wrapped around her, pulling her in as hers wound around his neck.

She needed this... she needed him. This was so different to before. It didn't feel like the excitement of a first time. It was as though they had been separated and had finally found each other again.

Abe deepened the kiss, his fingers running through her hair to cradle her head. Anna didn't know it could feel this way. This was truly an intimacy she had never shared with anyone else. She finally drew back, both of them breathing heavily as they stayed in their embrace.

It was exactly as she had feared.

"I should go-" she mumbled.

Abe held her hand firmly. "I'll walk you home." He wrapped his arm around her, and she didn't protest.

Her head spun as they walked without a word. She wanted to ask if his was too. His arms around her were perfection, her heart fluttering at how his kisses had been ardent and soft at the same time. Anna glanced up at Abe, and he down at her. He grinned, Anna unable to stop herself from returning it.

It was so bizarre. He clearly felt things between them as intensely as she did. Yet, he was always so happy. He let it lift him up, not weigh him down. Not like Hans. Anna had always believed that passion meant that deep almost painful burn in your heart; that if your partner was away from you, you would feel empty. But it wasn't the same with Abe. Of course she felt that yearning, but she was always so happy with him. He banished the seriousness without rejecting the responsibility. He was like Karl in so many ways, and she really needed that. Perhaps that is why Hans and she had worked as they had; Karl was always there to expel the darkness that consumed Hans.

They soon arrived back at the house. They stared at one another. Anna wanted to kiss him again, and as if he sensed it, Abe leant down and pressed his lips to hers. Her hands gripped his jacket, his arms engulfing her as he held her close and lifted her up onto her toes. His light, summer smell enveloped her, the buzz making her dizzy. He was sunshine in every way possible; his warmth, his smell, his presence. She wanted to bask in his glory and bathe in the glow of him. Had she misunderstood her previous happiness? Was this what she had been blindly stumbling towards all of these long years?

"Wait," she said softly, pulling back. "I need time-" She made to run away again but he coaxed her back.

"Don't leave... not just yet," he begged, pulling her into him.

"I really need to sleep," she insisted, not able to resist his arms around her. Yet, all he did was hold her, kissing her head. Anna buried her nose into his chest, as if to block out everything else except him.

"Can we talk tomorrow? If I let you go now, will you promise not to run away for good?"

"I don't think I could ever leave you," she whispered.

He breathed out a long, strained sigh. "That's all I need to hear." He pulled back, no matter how reluctantly, and took her hand. "Goodnight."

She clasped his hand in both of hers, pressing it to her lips so that she could kiss it tenderly. "Goodnight," she whispered, then left him alone by the front door.