The next morning dawned bright and clear; the sky filled with cottony puffs of clouds against the almost too blue sky. Cassie got up early, unusual for her, and pulled her titan locks back in a pony tail, preparing for a run.

She had canceled her morning runs (well mid morning most days) on vacation since she had to wake up very extremely early. She had intended to take late afternoon runs, but with Autumn coming on like gangbusters, sheer exhaustion from being on the chase crew, and Brendan, she just never got around to it. This morning, the sun was just up over the horizon, giving a golden glow to everything. Her feet struck the pavement and her legs pumped, groaning from lack of use, but warming quickly nonetheless. Soon she hit her stride, wandering through neighborhoods and commercial areas in a quick even pace. As usual, the heavy use of her muscles freed her mind, draining away any cobwebs, doubts, or insecurity. She felt good and she liked that feeling.

When she arrived back at the hotel room, she pulled off her running shoes and began to undress for her shower. Brendan still lay curled up in bed, his green blue eyes watching her with interest. “No peeking!” Cassie giggled and hopped into the shower, letting its hot sting soothe her worked muscles.

She left her hair swirled up in a towel as she got dressed for the day. Nothing in her vacation wardrobe was fancy except for the wedding gown in the garment bag in the back of the closet. She smiled at the thought.

“Breakfast time,” she chirruped.

“My, aren’t we perky?”

“Yes, it’s my wedding day; I’m allowed you know.”

“Of course you are.” Brendan came up behind Cassie and wrapped his arms around her from behind, kissing her just beneath the ear. “You smell wonderful.”

“It’s that high class, expensive hotel soap. Makes you smell divine.”

“Mmmmm,” was his only response.