Chapter 76

Ryder and Isobel disembarked from the second leg of their journey at Newark Liberty Airport, gearing up for their final flight in two hours.

"Want to grab a bite?" Ryder asked, intertwining his fingers with hers.

"Yes, I'm starving."

After their meal, hand in hand, Ryder guided Isobel to their gate where they found two vacant seats near the desk. Looking up, Isobel spotted the sign: London.

A grin spread across her face as her eyes sparkled, "We're going to London?"

Ryder's smile mirrored her excitement, "Yes, we're off to see your sister and her family."

Isobel leaned in, wrapping her arms tightly around his neck.

Loosening her grip slightly so he could breathe, Ryder asked, "Excited?"

"Sorry," she laughed, easing her hold more, "Yes, Ryder, I am so excited to see her again. It's been over three years." She kissed him softly then gazed into his eyes, "How did you manage this? Have you been in touch with Priscilla?"

"Your mom helped me get in contact with her. Yes, I've spoken to her a few times."

"Thank you so much, Ryder." She kissed him again and rested her head on his shoulder.

"Good afternoon, passengers. This is the pre-boarding announcement for British Airways flight 1511 to London. We are now inviting passengers with small children and those needing special assistance to begin boarding. Please have your identification and boarding pass ready. General boarding will begin in approximately ten minutes. Thank you."

The announcement sent a thrill of excitement racing through Isobel as she sat upright and grabbed her purse.

Laughing, Ryder placed his hand on hers, "We still have a few minutes, Isobel."

"I know; I'm just so excited to see Priscilla."

Beaming at Isobel's delight, Ryder leaned back in his seat, smiling.

"Flight 1511 to London will now begin boarding at Gate 15 for First Class and special passengers."

Ryder stood up with his bag and extended his hand to Isobel.

"They're only boarding First Class," she remarked.

Ryder's smile widened as his dimples deepened. "I know. That's us."

"Really?" Taking his hand, she stood and kissed him. "You sure are spoiling me."

"Get used to it, Baby. I'll never stop."

Seated and upright, TV screens stowed, seatbelts fastened, hands clasped and hearts pounding with excitement, they intently watched the plane's descent as it touched down on the runway, swiftly decelerated, and taxied towards the terminal. Ryder glanced at his wife to see a radiant smile illuminate her face. "Are you excited?" he asked.

"You have no idea," Isobel responded, her grin widening. "Priscilla and I haven't always been close, and although I didn't think it would matter that she missed the wedding, it did a bit. I'm thrilled for her to finally meet you."

Ryder leaned over and gently smoothed a section of her hair that had become tousled during her rest. He then kissed her deeply, lovingly holding her cheek in his hand.

As the plane came to a complete stop and noises from the cargo hold indicated that luggage was being unloaded, the door opened and passengers began to disembark. Ryder retrieved their carry-ons, slinging one over each shoulder as he followed Isobel—who was donning her long-sleeved denim shirt—down the aisle and off the plane.

Hand in hand, they navigated through the bustling airport, deciphering signs directing them towards the commencement of their eagerly awaited honeymoon. At last, they arrived at the area where Priscilla and her family awaited them.

The following two days were packed with excitement: a ride on a double-decker bus, a stroll through Hyde Park, a drive past Big Ben, crossing the London Bridge, an exploration of Buckingham Palace, and an evening spin on the London Eye. They visited many other iconic landmarks as Priscilla and Lionel expertly guided them to the best spots, including a visit to Soho and a delightful cruise on the Thames.

On the third evening, Ryder took Isobel aside. "You need to go pack now."

"What? Why?" Isobel's joy from their day's adventures quickly transformed into worry.

Ryder gently rubbed her arms. "Because this is just our first stop on the honeymoon. We leave in an hour for our second destination."

Her eyes sparkled as she looked into his. "Where are we going next?"

"Haven't you learned by now? I'm not telling," Ryder teased, kissing the tip of her nose. "Now hurry and pack so we can spend some time with your family before we leave."

Isobel immediately dashed upstairs to the guest bedroom while Ryder turned away, laughing, to join Lionel in his office.

An hour later, after many heartfelt goodbyes filled with hugs and a few tears, Ryder and Isobel stepped outside with their luggage and into the cab waiting for them.

Twenty minutes later, they arrived at St. Pancras International Train Station. Ryder and the driver retrieved their luggage from the trunk while Isobel waited on the sidewalk.

Placing the suitcases next to her, Ryder cupped Isobel's face in his hands and kissed her deeply. "Ready for our next adventure?"

Isobel smiled brightly and nodded, wrapping her arms around his neck as she kissed him again.

The End