The man smiled at the two, totally engrossed in one another and forgetting he existed, “Well, young Jamie, I’ll be taking my leave. Congratulations to both of you. I hope you live long and happy lives together.”
“Thank you so much!” Akiko gushed.
“Of course,” he answered warmly. “I’ve also set signs below the hill and down the road as you asked. Everyone will think the stones are closed for maintenance today so that no one will bother you.”
“Thank you, Murtagh. I’ll always owe you one for this,” Jamie said, resting his hand on the older man’s shoulders.
“No, Jamie. You don’t owe me anything. You’ve popped in and out over the years, but I’ve enjoyed watching you grow. Just take care of her, and we’ll be even.”
“Done,” Jamie said, pulling him in for a hug with his free hand before he w
