Fortunate Sum

by M. Ullrich

  In a tone heavy with exhaustion, Catherine said, “I hoped I’d be married with at least one kid by now.”

  Imogene could hear the smirk that accompanied Catherine’s words. “Slow down, tiger, one step at a time.” She patted Catherine’s abdomen.

  “Fine. But you better watch out, because I am coming for you.” She pinched Imogene’s backside before whispering, “I still have those real estate options we talked about when we first started working together.”

  Imogene’s heart started to beat faster. “The houses you thought would be a good idea for me to look at? Ones I could start a family in?” She felt Catherine nod.

  “I’d have to get an updated list, but yeah.”

  “You want to look at houses with me?” Imogene looked to Catherine with wide eyes that shone a hopeful cerulean.

  “You said one step at a time.” Catherine ran her fingertips along Imogene’s jawline. “I love you, Imogene, and I’m ready to take the next step if you are.”

  “Yes.” Imogene’s chin started to quiver. “If my financial advisor thinks it’s a sound investment decision, then yes. Of course, yes.” Her smile was brilliant and she laughed as she leaned into a promising kiss that sealed the deal.

  It was just like every night since Imogene had given Catherine another chance. The two women fell into a peaceful slumber pressed firmly against each other, entwined in a delicate partnership. They held hands and shared not just a pillow, but also pleasant dreams well into the night. Catherine fell asleep while giving silent thanks to whatever greater power it was that brought Imogene into her life, while Imogene thought of all the ways she could show Catherine how much she truly loved her. When the sun rose on a new day, they knew the future held an unpaved path they’d walk together toward a life filled with happiness, love, and good fortune.

  About the Author

  M. Ullrich has always called New Jersey home and currently resides by the beach with her wife and three boisterous felines. By day, M. Ullrich works full-time in the optical field and spends most of her free time working on her writing. When she’s not trying to capture her imagination on paper (a rare occasion), she enjoys being a complete entertainer. Whether she’s telling elaborate stories, performing karaoke, or making bad puns, M. Ullrich will do just about anything to make others smile. She also happens to be fluent in three languages: English, sarcasm, and TV/movie quotes.

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