Work Text:
“And we don't have a thing to lose
No matter what they say or do
I don't want nothing more
Our love is untouchable
Even in the line of fire
When everything is on the wire
Even up against the wall
Our love is untouchable”
/ Kristian Kostov – Beautiful Mess/
----
Many months and a complete biathlon season had passed since Sturla Holm Lægreid had confessed the darkest moments of his life to his boyfriend Vetle Sjåstad Christiansen and teammates including his best friends Johannes Dale and Ingrid Landmark Tandrevold. His broken soul was healing well. There were some tough days here and there but all together was a decent period for him. Vetle was always there when he needed a few kind words of reassurance or the other way around. They supported each other like a married couple. The other athletes constantly joked around with that. Little did they and Sturla know what Vetle had been planning for the love of his life for months by that moment. Vetle planned a little getaway in Lofoten. He knew that he had to propose to Sturla there with all their friends around for that special summer day.
Even tough, everything clicked for Vetle, he had to make preparation. His first difficulty came here. How they would get to Lofoten and stay there for a couple of days? To his luck, his parents called him asking how he and Sturla were. He was happy to get that call as he remembered that they used to have an RV that they rarely used. His dad, Georg told him that they had been planning to sell it. Vetle asked if it was still in their garage and if he could get it for a symbolic amount of money. He wanted to save that RV as it was his dream to take Sturla on a camping trip but having their own RV was something that they both had been dreaming of. His dad said yes, it was still in their possession and accepted his offer so the old and trusty vehicle remained in the Christiansen family.
The following day, Vetle left a note to Sturla on the fridge of him being in Geilo at his parents for something important. He called Johannes Dale and Ingrid to make sure they check on Sturla for the one week he was away. Then he went to the train station, bought his ticket, hopped on the train and travelled for long hours. He arrived at his parents’ house late in the day and checked out the old RV. It needed an almost complete makeover. He wanted to remake it in his beloved Sturla’s style that he adored so much. Sturla had very clean and simple style when it came to home. Wood was one of his most loved things. He loved white walls and black or brown accents. Maybe a little splash of colours here and there but not too much. A plants. His ideal home looked cold and distant but in reality it was filled with life thanks to the green.
This is what Vetle tried to recreate in their RV. Thankfully, his parents and their neighbours were more than happy to jump in. He started in the bedroom what needed a desperate patch. Many things including a fresh bed was needed. They got from a local furniture shop along with a beautiful brand new bedsheets and blankets. He painted the walls a beautiful shade of dark green that complimented the wood and the purple and black chequered bedsheet and the white pillows. Day by day, he worked extra hard to make sure that his dear Sturla would feel like he was at their Lillehammer home. Eventually on the seventh day, he had to get the plants for the RV to crown the whole thing. He went it to a shop that had gardening supplies, plants along with many things. He got a few herb seeds such as lavender, basil, oregano and thyme. He didn’t find any rosemary though. Thankfully, he got a call from Ingrid asking if she can gift them some of hers as it had spread way too much. Apparently, Sturla had fallen in love the scent while he was away. Vetle was happy to hear that Sturla was doing well and gave his blessing to Ingrid’s gift. He told her that he would be at home around 8 or 9. When Ingrid asked if he wanted something else he was hesitant but said:
“Please blindfold Sturla for me when I give you a sign. I have a huge surprise for him.”
Ingrid didn’t ask any further question. Vetle finished redecorating the old RV. He ate lunch with his parents. Then he had a chat with them before signing the vehicle’s ownership to him. They had a good laughter. Vetle had told them about proposing to Sturla soon and he would love if they were there on their special day. They were more than excited for their son. They only asked him to let them know weeks before so they could rent a cabin. For Vetle, this was the least he could do for his beloved parents who loved seeing him and Sturla being a wonderful couple.
Slowly after this, his dad and him signed the papers. His mom handed him the keys and he was ready to surprise the love of his life. The old and reliable RV started immediately. It was music to Vetle’s ears. He hugged his parents, thanked them and said goodbye for the week. He was driving for 3 hours. Once he saw the Lillehammer sign, the stopped for a minute to text Ingrid that he was in town and it was time to blindfold Sturla. Ingrid wrote an okay and let him know that she will help Sturla go outside with the help of Johannes Dale. Vetle wrote back a quick thanks and drove back home. As soon as he stepped out of the RV, he saw his friends helping his dear Sturla blindfolded with a red scarf from Ingrid.
“One more step, Sturla. Vetle is home in any minute.” Ingrid soothed his love’s nerves.
“You are doing amazing, Sturla.” Johannes laughed.
“What if you two are pranking me?” Sturla asked with nervousness in his voice.
“Kjære, I wouldn’t prank ya, would I?” Vetle commented.
“Vetle?”
“Yes, my love. I am finally home” Vetle smiled, “You can now remove your blindfold.”
Sturla removed Ingrid’s scarf. The shock and surprise on his face was worth millions. Sturla ran to Vetle to kiss him. He was so happy to see his long waited RV dream come to life in front of his very own brown eyes. He wanted to check the vehicle as soon as possible. Vetle was overjoyed to show their moving home so he opened the door. Sturla was so excited to see what Vetle had created him while they had been separated. As soon as he entered the RV, he immediately felt home. He was astonished how well Vetle had nailed his polished, calm and Nordic style. Sturla fell in love with the bedroom immediately. He was so overjoyed that he couldn’t stop kissing his dear Vetle. A long time since he was so happy about something. Vetle still had a surprise for him.
However, he needed his good friends, Johannes Dale and Tarjei Bø for this. Yet again, he left Sturla in Ingrid’s good care. In the following days, he and Johannes went to Oslo. He said that he needed to do something important in the Norwegian capital. The reality was something vastly different. Vetle, Johannes and Tarjei went for ring shopping. The older Bø brother waited for them at his home and they went to a tiny jewellery shop from there. Vetle was looking at the rings when the shop owner showed Vetle a white gold with a big diamond. The ring was the literal definition of too much. However, Amethyst was Sturla’s birth stone which he wanted to stick to. He looked at Tarjei and Johannes who immediately told him that the ring wouldn’t look amazing on his love. They left without the ring and left the shop.
“Would you like me to do anything else for you?” Tarjei asked Vetle before getting in the car.
“Honestly, yes if it is not a burden.”
“No, not at all.”
“Could you please send out the invites for me? I will send you the addresses at home.”
“Of course. I can make something for you. When and where?”
“Next month. July 7th at 7 pm at the cliffs of Reinebringen near Reine.”
“Vetle…” Johannes commented.
“Yes.”
“Look Vetle…” Johannes pointed in the direction of a blond man, “Isn’t that man Erling?”
“He is not. I feel like he is terrified enough of me.”
Despite the fact that Johannes was anxious, Vetle was quite calm about the situation. When the two of them arrived home, he greeted Sturla with a kiss. He went to their room and hid the ring box in his safe for the next month. He didn’t want Sturla to find the ring and ruin the surprise. The final countdown had started. It was the longest month ever and he had to hide the fact that he was looking for a ring. He had to choose every single word he said with care. He couldn’t even imply that he was about to do something life-changing for Sturla. He made sure that he was by his love’s side every time and day. Vetle soothed Sturla every occasion when the other had a nightmare about his past. Thankfully, they became less and less frequent.
On a particular fine and warm June morning, a text message woke Vetle up as Sturla was sleeping in a deep sleep phase. It was Antonin Guigonnat, he asked if it is okay for him and Sturla to stay at their home before the proposal for the last week with his teammate Émilien Jacquelin who would eventually capture their biggest life-changing moment. Vetle didn’t wake up Sturla to ask. Of course, it was fine. He knew that they were a major part of the life as couple. They just needed figure out something that they tell Sturla not to raise even the smallest kind of suspicion. They didn’t want to blow it away.
“I feel like we are going with a car if that’s okay. Émilien has a ton of photography equipment.” Antonin laughed and added, “He wants to make sure you get the best photos of this.”
“I am not even surprised.”
“Me neither.”
“Look Antonin… May I ask you for a small favour?”
“Sure! What is it?”
“Well… I still haven’t found the perfect ring for Sturla. Can you help me?”
“Of course! That’s the least I can do.”
“Thank you. May I ask where you guy are at?”
“We are still in Annecy. We had a trainings camp.”
“So… See you in 3-4 days I assume.”
“See you in a few days.”
Not long after that, Sturla woke up with a smile on his face. He had a good day. Vetle took his hand but accidentally he grabbed his love’s right hand at the most painful spot. The light years of distant pain struck Sturla making him gave out a little noise from the pain. Vetle quickly apologised. His love just smiled and said that he didn’t need to worry about it. Vetle promised that he would be more careful with Sturla’s hand as it was in the healing process. He even mentioned that the two French are going to visit them. This made Sturla smile even brighter. He was ready to enjoy the day and make a little breakfast for the both of them. Vetle asked for an omelette with bacon, veggies and feta cheese. Sturla was more than happy to make food for the both of them as he knew that the other wasn’t a picky eater.
After breakfast, they cleaned their home. Sturla helped Vetle a lot. This was the sign for Vetle that Sturla was indeed in the healing process. He didn’t think of Erling every now and then. Of course, he feared of doing something to his love. He feared of the possible attack on them in their home.Their house was Sturla’s castle where he should have felt safe and at the same time he felt trapped. On the other hand, a kiss or any other tender moment would aid him in the slow paced recovery. He would see the light at the very end of the dark tunnel. He knew that he had to solve it with Erling. Maybe a helping hand in a form of ultimatum would helped their conflict. When he mentioned his idea to Vetle, the other one whooshed it away saying:
“I think, you don’t need to talk to that idiot again. You have a new and wonderful life with me. Maybe let him go for once and all…”
Sturla eventually did for Vetle to make him happy. The day he saw his French friends, he decided to act like everything is normal. He hid his concern under a fake smile. Antonin and Émilien were so happy to be with him. He just didn’t want them to see his gloomy face. He wasn’t ready to reveal the broken part of his sensitive soul. He was terrified of them laughing at him. To mask his real and raw emotions, Sturla asked Vetle if he could help something. Vetle refused but advised him to open up about the darkness that he had hidden. Once Émilien reassured him that they wouldn’t laugh at him, he knew that he had to reveal the dark secret. Their reaction was a pleasant surprise. They didn’t laugh. The one, who had outed him in the past to Vetle, was in complete shocked mode. Antonin didn’t say a word. His mouth was hanging wide open. Once he got back to reality, the French stood up and sat down next to Sturla and hugged him. He genuinely felt bad for Sturla. He didn’t expect Sturla to fight with himself for so long.
Émilien’s reaction was similar. He didn’t expect Sturla to have fought for his life at a young age. He knew that the French team will support his Norwegian friend as much as they do it to him. He was honoured that Sturla opened up about himself. He even made sure that he would ask him about his well-being from time to time. He asked if Sturla and Vetle were okay with it. Vetle nodded in approval. Sturla was ready to accept every bit of help even if it was one of the hardest things at first. His Vetle wanted the best for him. The older Norwegian put his dear Sturla first rather than himself. Sturla had absolutely no idea what the other one had planned for him.
“Antonin, can we go?” Vetle asked all of the sudden, “Tarjei has messaged that he wants to show you something.”
“Of course.” the French replied.
“Thank you… Sturla, is it okay if we leave you home with Émilien?”
“Yes, I wanted to show the roses anyway. I will show Anto later then if you two need to check on Tarjei.” Sturla smiled, “Émilien, let’s go outside.”
To Vetle’s biggest surprise, Sturla didn’t get suspicious. He didn’t ask any questions. Antonin knew why Vetle had said the thing he did. The Norwegian wanted to check out rings for Sturla. Maybe this time, he was lucky. They drove to Oslo to check another jewellery shop. As they were looking for the possible ones, something caught his eyes from the outside. A blond man who looked deep in his eyes. It was Erling. Vetle’s heart sank as soon as he was sure in himself. He knew that he very much fuelled the hatred against himself in Sturla’s ex. He had just hoped that Erling hadn’t heard his plans about the proposal in Lofoten. He knew that the other one knew about his idea.
Antonin noticed that something was wrong. He immediately asked Vetle if everything was okay. Vetle said yes and after a little while, he had found the perfect ring. White gold with 3 beautiful Amethyst stones. It was one of the closest things to perfection. When the seller asked him if he was planning to buy it, he said yes without a single moment of hesitation. He was determined and knew that Erling wasn’t going to stop him from giving the best life he could give to Sturla. He was ready to make the life-changing step. He just had to keep it as a secret from the love of his life for 2 days
When they arrived home, Vetle hid the ring with its box inside a lockable safr in the RV. This way he made sure that he wouldn’t forget it to pack it. Then he went inside where Sturla, Antonin and Émilien waited for him with the dinner. He greeted Sturla with a kiss. As much as he wanted to tell his love about him seeing Erling in Oslo, he tried to stay silent to make sure that he didn’t hurt Sturla. He felt so wrong and he eventually told his love. Sturla was shocked but he was so glad that he was told about the seemingly heartbreaking news. For some random reason, he acted like a mentally strong person as he didn’t break down. Something had changed in him. Did Émilien give him a pep talk as well? Who knew? Only Sturla and possibly their friend, Émilien Jacquelin. Then the four of them went outside for the dinner. Sturla had prepared an Asian menu for the group. He made some Thai dishes that he and Vetle had been craving for a while. Their Asian menu consisted of Tom Kha soup and a green curry. Vetle was not afraid to compliment on his very soon-to-be fiancé’s cooking skills:
“Kjære, do you even realise that how amazing chef you are?”
Sturla just blushed as a reply. He didn’t have to answer his love’s question. His face turning tomato red was enough to make Vetle’s heart melt and know what his answer would be. Antonin and Émilien were so grateful to see their Norwegian friends’ love forming into something beautiful. Their love and respect towards each other was something out of this world. It seemed that it was small bubble of sunshine in this world. The French duo was able to witness in their love towards each other in the purest form. They were blessed with these tender moments. Even if Sturla wasn’t aware, they knewwhat was about to happen.
The next day on the calendar showed July 3rd. Unfortunately for Sturla only, the day had come when Émilien and Antonin had to go. They left to see probably the most beautiful part of Norway, Lofoten. The French duo woke up very early. They acted all sad to give Sturla the delusion. Antonin told that if the couple want to join them, they were more than welcome to do so. The two French made it seem like it could be a chance to go on a trip together. Just the four of them. Sturla wanted to go as soon as possible but Vetle held him back for one more day. He said that they needed to fix something. Sturla accepted the reason. In reality, it wasn’t true. Vetle waited for everyone to tell that they were the location that they had been given. The first reply came from the Sturla’s parents along with his siblings. They were followed by his own parents then Johannes Dale and the two Swedes: Martin Ponsiluoma and Sebastian Samuelsson.
The next reply came from the girls Ingrid and Marte. Quickly after that, the Bø brothers sent a message that they were there and try to keep Sturla calm. Vetle said that there was no need to worry. His love didn’t expect a thing. To make sure that Sturla didn’t get mad for not doing the thing he had said, he cleaned the floor of the RV. He was checking the ring to make sure it is not in a visible spot when he heard a knock on the door. He was almost caught by Sturla. He quickly put the ring box away and let his love in. Sturla came to ask if they could join Émilien and Antonin. He felt like the trip would help healing his soul even more. Vetle said that it was more than okay and advised preparing some meals for a few days. Sturla didn’t know what to make for themselves.
“What if you make something sweet like you are, kjære?” Vetle suggested, “I saw a nice recipe somewhere while I was away. Let me find it for you.”
“Okay. We can take it with ourselves in the fridge.”
“Found it!” Vetle looked up from his tablet and showed what he had found by accident, “Here… It is called Túró Rudi torta. It’s from Hungary but I think it looks nice.”
“It is indeed nice. I will check the fridge if we have everything.”
“Okay… If not, please write me a shopping list so I can get everything.”
While he was away, he quickly checked his messages on the social media. Quentin Fillon-Maillet and Filip Fjeld Andersen had informed him being on the islands of Lofoten. Sturla came back slowly after that with a lengthy shopping list for him. Vetle kissed him goodbye and rushed to the grocery store for a few minutes maybe an hour. He managed to get everything that had been written up by his dear Sturla. He waited for Émilien and Antonin’s message patiently. He knew that Lofoten was far away from them and it would take a lot of time to arrive so he could hear the good news of everyone being there and were waiting for them to eventually arrive. While he waited for the message from the two French, he helped Sturla make the cake. The little beauty, that Vetle found for themselves to try, was a success. They tried a slice each before putting it in the RV’s fridge. They were amazed how sweet it was. For Sturla who is the biggest sweet tooth in the team, it was a taste of heaven on earth. He joked that he would try the original thing too. As a way turning back the fun, Vetle said that the cake they made was not as sweet as he was. Sturla just smiled and excused himself to prepare for the night.
While Sturla was away, Vetle prepared the RV for the next afternoon. He put on the bedsheets inside the bedroom. Then he checked the water tank and filled so they have something on hand to use for the next few days. He had to think about everything. Once he was ready, Sturla finished too. He went inside for a glass of water when Sturla came downstairs. His love asked him if he should shave a little. He said no, his boyfriend was good the way he was. Sturla didn’t answer but his action told a million words. The younger Norwegian kissed him in the quick heat of the moment. Vetle didn’t mind that at all. He loved these kind of little surprises from him as they shared this trait. They laughed the whole thing off. Vetle then excused himself to the bathroom and later joined Sturla in bed. The next day, hewoke up his phone beeping in the morning. Vetle received the message from Émilien that they had arrived after 20 hours of driving. They drove in shifts so the other one could sleep if needed. Vetle was so happy to hear that everyone except for them to be at the given location. He went outside and prepared a small breakfast for the both of them.
Not even 10 minutes later, Sturla woke up. His brown hair were in wild curls. He yawned, saw Vetle preparing food and asked if he can have some extra coffee. Vetle said yes and asked him to pack some of their stuff. He happily informed his love that they will join their French friends. Sturla immediately woke up from the happiness. Sturla requested Vetle to tell when food was ready, rushed back to their room to prepare some stuff. As he disappeared in their room and the coffee was brewing, Vetle rushed outside to hide the safe under the bed as it was in a visible spot. Then he ran back to grab the coffee and serve the breakfast for the both of them.
“Kjære! The breakfast is served!”
“I’m coming…” Sturla answered rushing downstairs with a few clothes in his hands, “Where can I put these?”
“You just put them on the sofa.”
“Alright. What did you make?”
“I chose fritatta. We need the energy to drive.”
“Right. Lofoten is not in our 100 km range.” Sturla took a bite from the food Vetle had prepared for them, “This is magnificent. Thank you, darling.”
“I am glad that you love it. How is your right-hand?”
“It is in a small pain today. Nothing serious. I could shoot with them easily.”
“Glad to hear that.” Vetle smiled. “I pack the stuff you took out in our small wardrobe.”
“Thank you.”
“Do you need something to get packed?”
“Maybe one of my guitars.”
“Is that all? Which one would you like to take with us?”
“That’s all, honey. I think I take my acoustic one.”
“Alright. I will wait for you in the RV.”
Vetle finished what Sturla had started. He packed everything carefully. Then he sat down the driver’s seat and waited for his love. Sturla came not long after. He just washed the dishes, watered his roses and locked everything. He jumped in the RV and they were ready to go. Sturla still didn’t get suspicious. Vetle turned the key and they left in the direction of Lofoten. Sturla was excited to travel with Vetle. He didn’t know what the other one had been preparing for him that would change his life for the better. He thought that it was just a regular trip to his home country’s most beautiful part with his boyfriend and his two really good French friends. In his mind, it was an opportunity to heal a little more again. Maybe he would find peace within himself. He was happy after a long time of suffering. His palm wasn’t in a huge pain either. So, he played music for Vetle when he didn’t have to drive. Their first stop was in Trondheim. Sturla took over the driver’s seat quickly as soon as they had paid for the gasoline. He couldn’t stay in the town where Erling was born. He left without looking back while Vetle was sleeping in the back. The goal levitated in front of his eyes. To be in Lofoten meant a lot to him. The possibility of healing was in front of him. Maybe Erling would leave them alone there.
The next stop, where Sturla felt stopping the RV, was Steinkjer. It was a quite long journey but Sturla enjoyed every second as it was through a beautiful part. It was a long journey but he managed to drive carefully. Vetle took over from there. He drove till Bodø while Sturla was playing music and eventually had a small nap. It was time to get on the ferry. Vetle had to do something he hated. He woke up the sleeping Sturla. Sturla looked at him with tired eyes but understood that they had to go outside and enjoy the sea. It was necessary and he understood. He wasn’t even mad at Vetle for waking him up from his sweetest dream.
They were 3 hours in the ferry ride when Sturla got sick very suddenly. An awful feeling crippled upon him and he couldn’t explain why. Vetle advised him to take deep breaths and offered him a mint. Sturla gladly took it. Vetle was ready to help him to a bathroom so he wash his face. Vetle asked if he was seasick. He wasn’t. He told that he had a bad feeling that something was about to happen. Vetle reassured that he had no need to fear if he was around. Sturla, however, couldn’t sweep the bad feeling off himself. Around an hour later, he rushed to the bathroom. He threw up for no reason. He didn’t eat anything that wasn’t spoiled. Vetle put him bed and washed his face to make sure everything was alright. He started to worry about Sturla. He even asked:
“Are you certain that you are not seasick?”
“100%. I think… it is not food poisoning either.” Sturla answered quite calmly even if he was anxious, “I need a little sleep and I will be okay after that.”
“That’s a relief.”
“It might be just a bad feeling.”
“Were you thinking of Erling?”
Vetle had put two and two together. Sturla had no choice but to admit that his love was right. He thought about his ex. He explained that he was a bit worried than usual but was grateful to have Vetle by his side. Sturla needed Vetle with every inch of his body and soul. He felt like a sailor on the rough sea and his boyfriend was his lighthouse. Vetle asked if he wanted to sleep so he could get better. They walked to the RV and Sturla could stay sleeping there while the ferry ride finished. Vetle watched the sea and was thinking. He realised that Sturla might have been right. His love and Erling might have needed some kind of official closure. This was the reason why Sturla couldn’t move on completely. He decided that he would help them talk like two normal human being if they could. There was no other options. If Sturla wanted to be healthy and happy again, this was unavoidable. He thought through every single possibility. He was deep in his thought for a few hours when the captain of the ferry spoke on the loud speaker:
“Dear Passengers! We have arrived to Lofoten. Thank you for travelling with us and have a wonderful time.”
Vetle walked to their RV. He got in and checked on Sturla who was still asleep. Vetle stroked his head and jumped in the driver’s seat and drove off. He was driving in silence so he didn’t wake up his love. He was on the road for a little more than an hour when he felt a soft tap on his should. Sturla was awake and told him that he felt way better. He was happy to hear the news. Sturla sat down and started playing some music for their entertainment. About 45 minutes later they arrived to a place where they saw a car with French number plate. Vetle stopped the RV next to the car, honked and one man got out of the car. It was Antonin. Sturla got out of the car to hug him. He was so happy to see a familiar face.
“Émilien, our friends have just arrived.” Antonin informed his partner, “You said that you have a suggestion.”
“Oh yes!” Émilien recommended and winked at Vetle “What if we climb up to Reinebringen tomorrow?”
“I have nothing against it. Sturla?” Vetle looked at his boyfriend.
“I believe I have enough strength to climb.” Sturla commented on his ability.
“Great! Let’s meet in Reine tomorrow, the 7th, at 1 pm.” Antonin exclaimed.
The two French left and they went to their eventual camping spot near a pier. Sturlamade a quick dinner for the two of them from the stuff they got at the gas station in Trondheim. He made some Japanese ramen for themselves. Vetle took a shower and prepared his clothes for the next day. He grabbed the safe that was under their bed. He checked the small ring box. The ring wasn’t found by Sturla. He looked around and put the ring with its box in his pocket and after that he joined his love to have a little supper. Vetle held Sturla’s hand while eating. Sturla appreciated the little tenderness. It was something that helped him a lot. Slowly, they finished with their meals, they went outside for some fresh air. Sturla walked to the end of pier and looked at the water. He sighed and looked back for Vetle. His dear Vetle noticed that he needed him as a company. They didn’t speak for a few minutes as they understood each other without saying anything. Their actions spoke louder than words. Those soft hugs, kisses and gentle strokes told Sturla that he was safe. He thought if Vetle was near, not a single could hurt him. They stayed up till midnight before they dozed off for the next day.
The day had finally come. July 7th. Vetle had woken up first. He noticed that he got messages from a group chat that was made by Quentin the day before. Sturla wasn’t a part of this chat for a very obvious reason. Everyone let him know that they were heading to Reine and most of them would wait for them at the top. Tor, Sturla’s dad, wished them a safe travel for the remainder of their journey. He ate a little breakfast, got dressed in the prepared clothes and started the RV while Sturla was sleeping. They travel was only 3 hours away. It was 10 am when he woke up when Vetle had to stop as nature was calling him. Sturla quickly got dressed and sat down in his seat next to the driver’s. Vetle was so happy to be joined by him. They greeted each other with a kiss.
“We have such a nice weather, don’t we?” Vetle commented.
“We do.” Sturla answered, “Thank you for persuading me. I would have regretted it.”
They had arrived in Reine shortly after 12 pm. Émilien gave them their location to Sturla. They eventually found each other at the given spot. They shook each other’s hands and Vetle excused him to go back to the RV for a small moment. He went to the bedroom to get the ring from the safe. Once he went back, they started climbing. Antonin brought a big backpack with himself so they can have a small meal while they were on their way to the top. They joked a lot and laughed at their stupid inside jokes. At first, Sturla laughed as well but soon his face changed to be serious. The trio immediately noticed it. Vetle asked if everything was okay. Sturla replied that he had that sickening feeling yet again like he had had on the ferry. He said that he felt like being followed. Antonin tried to cheer him up with his stupid jokes. It made Sturla laugh a lot. They hadn’t noticed it but the time started flying more quickly. Next moment Sturla looked on his watch, it was 6 pm and they were extremely close to the top.
A time of 45 minutes had passed when they reached on top. Sturla looked around and saw very familiar faces. People who meant a lot to him were there. He noticed Ingrid and Marte first. Then when an old man approached him with his wife. It was his parents, Tor and Ingrid. He slowly noticed everyone. His siblings: Sindre and Sara, the closest loved ones of his dear Vetle: Randi, Georg and his siblings, Johannes Dale, the two Bø brothers, the two Swedes: Martin Ponsiluoma and Sebastian Samuelsson, Quentin Fillon-Maillet, Filip Fjeld Andersen and his trainer Siegfried Mazet were all there. He didn’t want to believe his eyes as he was standing on the cliff with Vetle. All were there who somewhat mattered to him.
“What’s going on?” Sturla uttered in disbelief “Vetle, what’s going on?”
“Well, kjære…” Vetle started to kneel down in front of him with the box opened showing the ring, “My dear Sturla Holm Lægreid… Would you honour me…”
“CHRISTIANSEN!” a loud voice interrupted Vetle. To everyone’s biggest shock was Erling.
“Stop it Erling! It’s over.” Sturla stood up for himself.
“I tell you when it’s over!” Erling screeched like a hyena and pushed over Johannes Dale.
This made Sara grab her phone to record the whole thing. Erling started to run towards the now standing Vetle with killing intentions. Vetle immediately saw the dark side. He thought that he was going to die in front of the one he cared about the most. When Erling started to get closer, he felt a gentle yet very strong pull by his shirt. Sturla pulled him very close to himself and shrieking from the panic and pain in his right palm. The younger Norwegian hugged him tight hiding his tears. Vetle quickly hugged Sturla with the ring in box in his hand. He hid Sturla’s face so he didn’t see or hear anything. All he and almost everyone saw was Erling tripping on a small rock. The stone worked as Karma’s biggest rocket launcher. Erling was launched and fell off the cliff screaming for his life. The sudden shock was ended by Antonin Guigonnat saying:
“Someone call the emergency services.”
All Vetle cared about is Sturla. He tried to soothe him with a hug. However, Sturla was still shaking from the fear. Sturla’s biggest fear was Erling. The Monster of Trondheim had almost ended the life of the one he loved the most. He raised his head and looked in Vetle’s blue eyes only briefly. He bowed his head against Vetle. He quickly whispered a soft “I love you” to Vetle while the others were waiting for the emergency services. It was the longest hours that they had to wait. While waiting Sturla had moved from the cliff with the help of Quentin and Tarjei. They made him sit down in the grass. Vetle sat down next to him and everyone gathered around them. Eventually, three policemen appeared on horseback. The two of them took everyone’s statements. Sturla was in total distress. Vetle told on his behalf what happened on their part. One of the policemen looked at Sturla who was slowly coming back to the real world.
“Did-did-did he… he sur-survive?” Sturla stuttered.
“I am sorry sir but… There was almost no chance that Mr. Mortensen has survived the fall. It looks like he landed on one of his most vital spots.” the policeman informed them. “If he did, he would be paralysed for life.”
“Can we go back to our places?” his mom Ingrid asked.
“Yes, ma’am. Your daughter has showed and sent over the video.” the oldest policeman told them, “It was an accident. We don’t need to investigate further and will inform his closest family members about it soon so they can claim him. I am sorry, young man that you had to experience this.”
“Thank you.” Sturla said, “Vetle, can I travel on your back please? I don’t feel enough energy in my legs.”
“Of course, darling. Hop on me if you want. We will try this thing again tomorrow but with our immediate family plus Anto and Émilien. Okay?”
“I’m staying in Tangstad currently.” Quentin recommended and added, “I had a nice walk with the Swedes there the other day. The beach is beautiful and I strongly believe that it suit your intentions Vetle.”
“Sturla, are okay if we try in Tangstad even if you might know what I’ve wanted to do?” Vetle suggested.
“Yes, I think I know. At least, I have a little time to think and calm down. Today was an emotional roller-coaster.”
It was 2 am when they got back to their RV. Vetle was so sadfor Sturla even if he disliked Erling with all his heart and it brought some kind of closure. Sturla couldn’t believe what had happened a few hours ago. The man, whom had been a monster to him, had passed away in front of his eyes. Even if he didn’t see Erling falling to his early and untimely demise, he had heard his desperate scream. It messed with his mind little. Vetle asked if he wanted to attend the man’s funeral when it eventually happened so he could let Erling go. Sturla just nodded as a reply. He told Vetle that at least Erling would have someone there for him on his last journey. His closest family had never been nice to him. Erling had seen his seen his family fall apart. His mum and dad had been fighting constantly. They had divorced when Erling was 7 years old. The young Erling had been bullied a lot. 5 times a week during his primary school years. Then his mum had left him when he was 9. She might have never come back leaving him to his grandparents that never loved him. In their eyes, Erling had been just a troubled child.In high school, he rebelled against anything and anyone. He had started to smoke and drink a very young age. Sturla mentioned where they had crossed each other’s life path. They had met during a summer camp. They had exchanged contacts and they had talked a lot after that particular summer. Then they had become couple in no time.
“You could have been the ray of hope for things turning better.” Vetle commented as soon as Sturla finished their, “It’s a shame that he couldn’t see it.”
“I know… I sincerely hope that his reckless soul is now at peace. Sure… He could have made better choices but I can see why he decided to hurt me. This is what he had grew up in. This was the normal for him.” Sturla explained Vetle kindly with no ill words, “He had seen nothing but darkness. Dear Erling, I hope you find the peace that you craved for so bad. I wish I could show you that life can be indeed beautiful. I hope you rest in peace now.”
Vetle was totally shocked by how heart-warmingly Sturla spoke about his ex. Even though Erling had almost ended their lives on two separate occasions, Sturla couldn’t say any terrible things about him. He was genuinely nice to everyone. He accepted everyone in his heart with all of their virtues and vices. Even the ill-fated Erling. In Vetle’s eyes, this was Sturla’s biggest virtue. He was accepting and forgiving towards everyone around him. His dearSturla grew a lot as a person for him. From this splinter of time, Vetle was even more sure in his decision to ask Sturla’s hand in marriage. He was ready to live the rest of his life with him if Sturlawould say yes.
They were talking a little more about their future plans. Vetle masked his excitement well.The couple hadn’t realised but the time was almost 4 am. They both yawned at the same time and just laughed. They could stay up longer but they needed to sleep. They had a very long day behind and they had to get to Tangstad. Sturla couldn’t fall asleep immediately. He was thinking. Since everything had happened in a small period of time, his memory was a bit foggy. All he remembered apart from Erling’s demise very clearly that Vetle had kneeled in front of him with a ring in its box. He quickly put two and two. Vetle had wanted to propose to him but Erling had interrupted them. The thought of possible asking his hand to marry the love of his life made him grin silently. He knew what was the only possible and correct answer. He yawned once more, looked at the already sleeping Vetle and he too dozed off with a huge smile on his face.
When Sturla woke up at 2 pm, Vetle was still next to him being awake. They greeted each other with a kiss. Sturla asked his love if they can stay in bed a little longer for a cuddle. Vetle had nothing against it. If Sturla wanted a cuddle, he would give it to him. They were each other’s safe spot. They had come from far. From a not so innocent prank, through their first home and nightmares eventually to building trust and comfort. They loved each other dearly. Both Vetle and Sturla were serious about their relationship. Their bond was unbreakable. They were stronger than anything together. Especially Sturla. The young Norwegian felt stronger if Vetle was near. Vetle became the symbol of getting better and stronger. Vetle meant healing for him. This is why the other one meant so much for him. He believed in himself a lot more thanks to Vetle.
“Thank you, Vetle… I love you… Thank you for making me believe that I can and will indeed heal… Thank you for telling me that the storm will end… Thank you for bringing back the colours of the rainbow” Sturla whispered into his tender kisses, “I know… I know my dear! I know what you have planned... I know what I am gonna answer.”
Vetle noticed from Sturla’s words that he was healing. He kissed him like he had never done before. Those kisses didn’t feel forced and stiff. Sturla kissed him without being paralysed from the fear he had in the past. He kissed him so much passion like he had never done before. He wasn’t stiff or forced. He was very much loose and spontaneous. He healed at a pace that Vetle didn’t expect for him. His right palm wasn’t well yet but that one was also on the way. Sturla’s bird-like soul was freed from the cage that was in for long years. It just needed that one moment that shows the light at the end of the darkest tunnel. Vetle was so afraid to break this passionate moment between the two of them. Sturla just smiled at him saying it was okay.
“I am sure that Émilien, Antonin and our loved ones are waiting for us. However, I feel like we need to eat something… Let’s have lunch here in Reine before we go.”
“Why not? I would like to go for a fish meal for lunch. I would like to try the Tapperiet Bistro. I heard they have nice meals.”
They sent a message to the group that made Sturla a member yesterday. They needed to let them know they would eat first before leaving Reine to go to Tangstad. Johannes Dale responded that he hoped they would have a nice meal. They arrived at the small bistro around 4 pm, they sat down outside and ordered for the day’s fish meal. Once they finished, paid for their meal plus left a generous tip and said thank you before leaving. They jumped in the RV and left in the direction of their destination.
Vetle drove and Sturla was messaging the group that they were on their way. Shortly after that he looked at the weather application. It showed a small chance of rain showers. He mentioned it to Vetle. His love just said that they had no need to worry. A little shower of rain could never hurt them. Sturla’s concern disappeared. What could go wrong? Nothing. If it rained, they would be soaked to skin. That’s all. Maybe Émilien’s photography equipment wouldn’t get damaged. They didn’t want that to happen. They knew and respected the Frenchman’s hobby. They were grateful that he would be there to capture a life-changing moment for them. Just as they finished talking about the French, Émilien called them to ask where they were. Sturla answered that they had just left Vian. Sturla was worried a little and asked if Émilien had something to protect his beloved camera. The French just laughed it off and told:
“Don’t worry Sturla. I always have that kind of thing on me. You never know.”
“I… I mean we were worried about your equipment getting damaged.”
“That’s sweet of you two…” Émilien smiled “...but seriously. No need to worry. If it rains, we will have rainy photos. That’s all. The moment is the most important. Not the weather.”
“Where are you located? Are you already in Tangstad?” Vetle questioned their French friend.
“Not yet. Anto and your families are only.” Émilien answered, “I am at a bus stop to flag you two down so if I can I will set up something your RV so we can see the photos together afterwards.”
“How will we notice you?” Sturla asked with a little worrying in his voice.”
“Sturla. Sturla calm your horses down. Even I feel that your pulse is high from the other end of phone.” Émilien laughed while trying to calm his friend down, “I will have a somewhat bigger French flag. You can spot it from very far. There is no need to worry. You guys will find me.”
“I see something now! Vetle, there is Émilien! The man in a raincoat with the flag!”
“I see the RV. Good job Sturla! I told you that you can’t miss me with a big French flag.” Émilien ended the call.
As soon as Émilien hopped in the RV. Sturla got up at sat opposite Émilien. The French asked if he can plug his laptop in. Sturla gave the go ahead. He left it to charge while they were chatting about sport mainly but other personal things came up too. Émilien told Sturla how proud he was of him. Sturla blushed a little. He needed to get used to accepting the compliments from others not just Vetle in his direction. Both Émilien and Vetle knew that one day, it would be natural for him. All Sturla needed was a little more time.
Not even 10 minutes later, the RV has arrived to Tangstad. Émilien sat next to Vetle so he can help him getting to the destination. The French instructed him to a small beach where their families and Antonin had been waiting for them dressed in raincoats like Émilien just in case it did rain. When they had arrived, they stopped for a moment. Vetle wrote the sentence “We are engaged!” and the date in his left palm. He grabbed the small box and put in his pocket. He opened the door on the side to made the look that it was Vetle and Émilien who got out of the RV first. They helped Sturla who kept telling them that they didn’t need to do this. He was well rested and had power in his legs. Vetle just wanted to make sure that he was well. They walked slowly to a small pier where their loved one were. Vetle stopped for a small moment to ask his dad about on which hand he had to put the ring on for Sturla as he wasn’t sure in himself. Georg whispered the answer being the right hand according to Norwegian traditions. He hugged his dad and walked in Sturla’s direction who stood on the left side of the pier. While he was making steps towards his beloved, he noticed the dark rain clouds coming towards their direction at the wooden pier.Émilien gave them the okay sign that he was ready to take the photos. The moment Vetle went down on one knee and opened the box with the ring inside, the rain started falling heavily soaking them. Neither Vetle, nor Sturla cared. As Émilien Jacquelin was taking many photos, Vetle looked deeply in his love’s warm and tear filled brown eyes, reached for Sturla’s right hand gently and asked the question Sturla had been waiting for since last night:
“My dear… My only… My love Sturla Holm Lægreid, would… would you… would you honour me, Vetle Sjåstad Christiansen… would you honour me allowing to be your future husband… to spend the rest of our lives and… grow old together?”
Sturla just nodded and whispered an almost silent “I would” while nodding so the others could cheer. Vetle took out the ring from the box and put the ring on his finger while Sturla’s right hand was shaking. Sturla knew that it was about to come yet still… It was unexpected for him how Vetle would ask for his hand in marriage. As soon as the ring was on his finger he hugged Vetle, whispered a soft “I love you” and kissed him. During their tenderest moment, the Sun came out again lighting up their faces while it was still raining heavily. Émilien immediately jumped on Mother Nature’s chance. He asked to show off the ring. Sturla pointed the ring towards the French’s camera and Vetle showed his palm showing what he had written only short a little while ago. Émilien’s photo came out the way he wanted. The two Norwegians hands were showing the ring and the text while their kiss was out of focus.
Not a very long time after, the sun took over from the rain leaving a rainbow behind. Although everyone important for them was soaked to skin like the,, they didn’t care. They came to see them on making the very first step of unification. Once Émilien finished with the photos, they could come up to and congratulate the couple. Sturla and Vetle was engaged from that point. After the storm of hardships, they were walking towards their sunny future. Together. Never leaving the other one behind. It was an emotional moment for both of their mums. Ingrid and Randi had been teared up since the moment Vetle had gone on one knee to propose to his dear Sturla. Georg and Tor shook hands and joked around that they were now a family. Sturla gave just a big bright smile at them. Vetle laughed it off. It was nice to see their families getting along so well. Vetle looked at his watch and saw the time. It passed almost 11 pm and it was the time to say goodbye from their families for the day.
Randi and Tor walked up them and gave both of them a hug letting them know that they were accepted into their families. Randi told Sturla how proud she was of him. She knew that he is good for her son Vetle. The moment they had started dating, she had known that they would eventually end up spending their lives together. On the other hand, Tor thanked Vetle for being there for his son Sturla in his dark times. Vetle hadn’t left Sturla alone being miserable. He had waited patiently for the moment when things had turned for the better. That was the sign for him that Sturla would be happy next to Vetle and be almost the same before Erling. The head of the Lægreid family gave him a hint on why Sturla cared about his roses a lot. He told Vetle gently so Sturla couldn’t hear what his dad had just told Vetle about him:
“As his favourite book from childhood said: ‘You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed.’ Please use this information for your advantage, my son. Please bring out the inner child that is deeply hidden within him. We’ve been missing it for so many long years and you deserve to see it. Unfortunately, this might be the one thing that Erling had taken from our Sturla.”
At first, Vetle didn’t get what his future father-in-law meant. This was something that he had to ask his dear Sturla about. Maybe he would know what his dad was talking about. However, he didn’t want him to bother his love with seemingly stupid questions. That fine July day was about celebration. Once they said their goodbyes from almost everyone, they went back to the RV with their two closest French friends. He and Sturla got a warm shower before joining the two French in their tiny kitchen. Émilien was making small edits to the photos. He started with the one where the Sun was peeking out. It made them in the focus as Vetle was on his knee putting the ring on Sturla. Once finished with that one moved to another. He chose the one where the newly engaged were showing off the ring and text. Sturla came back first from the shower. He was so excited to see Émilien’s photos. As much as he wanted to see the results of the photo shoot, he waited patiently for Vetle. Once he was out of the bathroom and was prepared for the evening, Émilien showed them the photos. Sturla teared up once he saw the photos. Vetle wasn’t hesitant. He asked for the photo where they were out of focus and their hands were in. Émilien gladly sent it over. He knew that they would need it to announce their engagement on social media. Probably, when they got back to their home in Lillehammer.
“Thank you, Émilien. The photos are wonderful.” Vetle commented.
“It was an honour to capture this special moment.”
“Indeed it was such a wonderful moment. I’m so happy that you two have allowed us to be part of it.” Antonin smiled while he crushed a teardrop.
“Anto, are you crying?” Vetle asked their French friend.
“No, I am just moved.”
“Émilien?”
“Would you mind if he asked you for our wedding photographer?”
“Well…” Émilien smiled, “I am sure you find someone better than me.”
“We would like to honour you.” Sturla explained.
“Don’t get me wrong. I gladly take photos for your scrapbook of life. However, in this situation, I would like to celebrate with you two.”
“That’s understandable.” Sturla sighed.
“I. Will. Be. There. Sturla.”
“Don’t we need to go?” Antonin suggested his friend, “It is very late. Let these two lovebirds to have some privacy.”
“You’re absolutely right.” Émilien agreed, “I will send you all of the photos once I edited them. Both physically and digitally. Is that okay?”
“Yes. Thank you once more.” the two Norwegians said at the same time.
They shook hands and the two French left to go to their accommodation. Vetle and Sturla were now alone. Sturla took out the cake they had baked for themselves. Vetle cut a slice each for themselves. He handed one of the plates to his fiancé. They decided to talk about their future. Both of them agree that they would like to tie the knot eventually but first they wanted to focus on something else. That was being Sturla’s mental health. Sturla had suffered a lot in the past and Vetle was ready to help him to move on. This made the older one think a lot about the quote Tor told him. He knew very well from which novella his love’s dad had told him the quote. It was ‘The Little Prince’ by French writer, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. He thought that he would ask Sturla once they were back in Lillehammer. That day was about to celebration. It was the day 1 of a new era in their life. Vetle suggested Sturla to go outside so they can admire the midnight sun. Sturla gladly accepted. They went outside. Vetle decided to they should walk to the sea and dip their feet in the water and continue talking.
“Love, could you please remind me to ask you about something when we get to home?” Vetle requested.
“Sure... why not now?”
“I forgot what I wanted to ask you about. Maybe when we are at home, I will remember.”
“This happens to me as well sometimes.” Sturla laughed and put his head on Vetle’s shoulder for the feelings of safety, “Okay, I will remind you.”
“Thank you, kjære.” Vetle kissed his dear love, “I am so proud of you for being brave against Erling. You stood up for yourself. Also, thank you so much having enough strength in your hand to save me. I immediately realised that your fears of Erling was deadly. I was so terrified… I thought I was going to kick the bucket.”
“Thank you. My palm still hurts from that… but this pain was worth it.” Sturla took a deep breath, a breath that sound like it coming from the depths of his pure heart, “Vetle, I would have fallen into the pitch-black void if I saw you falling and Erling survived. I am not happy that he died but… I would have been devastated if I lost the one who saved me from the darkness. I’m sure that I can move on now.”
“I’m ready to help you on this tough road. I’ll support you for the rest of my life.”
This eased the pain in Sturla. He started to feel liberated from the weight on his shoulders. Like a hugemountain’s mass was taken off his shoulders. He found peace in his soul after years of torture. Vetle was his hero from the moment they got together. Even if they had a rocky start. He knew that if there is Vetle, he would find the peace that he had been looking for long days, months and years. He just needed a genuine good soul that his loved one, Vetle. He learned to trust his man.
On their way back, Vetle had a nice idea. He suggested in them having a code word that Sturla could and would use when he needed they were separated for some reason. A few words came up in their conversation before Sturla came up with ‘Månelys’ meaning Moonlight. It was the first one they agreed on as it was something that the chances were seldom to come up in a normal conversation between him and Vetle. They decided that they were the ones who knew about it. Maybe later, they would tell some others like their immediate families. Maybe in the future the two French Émilien and Antonin would get a word too. Maybe the others like Ingrid and Johannes Dale as well.Sturla said that he would think about it as they were the trusted oneWhen they reached the RV, Sturla said that he wanted to play a couple of songs for Vetle as they were not sleepy yet.
“What if I play the one song that Rastorgujevs recommended me a long time ago?” Sturla offered the suggestion towards the Stig Rästa song.
“That’s new from you. I know you like classic rock.”
“Well, this song is called Home. It’s something sweeter than my normal style but it means a lot to me and once you hear it, you’ll know why. Thank you Vetle that I can call you my Home.”
“Let’s see the bear.” Vetle laughed.
Sturla started playing the song for his fiancé. Vetle at first didn’t cry thinking it was just a silly love song. Then the refrain hit him in the chest and he teared up. It was literally about them. Andrejs had found their song in Estonia. Out of the blue, someone knocked their door. When they opened the door, saw no-one. However, they noticed a small basket with a red ribbon at their doorstep. Inside the basket, there was a bottle of wine and an envelope. They took the basket inside. Both and Sturla were curious. So, they opened the envelope. Inside, there was a card which said:
“Sturla and Vetle,
Congratulations to your engagement!
Please enjoy this lovely red wine from Brodeaux as a gift.
Greetings, M.F.”
-----
“Call me when the light is fading
I will find you
We can find the colours in the night
...
Oh, colours
Break the silence
Together now
You're stronger when you're with me
Ja min luđiin
Together now”
/KEiiNO – Colours/