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They were lying on a platform in their sleeping bags, looking up at the Aurora Borealis while holding hands.
"I'm glad about two things: that the winter clothing and sleeping bags have improved a lot since we first went to Samiland," Joe said. "Do you remember that winter?"
"I don't remember everything about that winter," Nicky replied. "But I do agree with you about the winter clothing and sleeping bags."
Joe turned his head so he could look at Nicky.
"Besides the snow and cold, which are almost the same each year," Joe said. "What do you remember from that winter?"
"I remember that it was the first time we saw the Aurora Borealis together," Nicky replied. "And I remember that it left us both speechless because we had never seen anything like it before."
"I also remember that," Joe replied. "It was like watching a colour explosion unfold before our eyes."
They both looked up at the Aurora Borealis.
"I agree," Nicky replied. "And just as it was back then, the Aurora Borealis is still one of the most beautiful things nature has created."
For a while, they looked at the Aurora Borealis in silence.
"Just know," Joe said. "I'm glad you suggested that we should return to Lapland. I have missed the silence."
They had been on a three-year mission, during which there was a lot of noise coming from everywhere. So, when the mission was over, Nicky suggested spending a winter in Samiland so that they could see the Aurora Borealis again. Despite hating the cold, Joe said yes to Nicky's idea.
"Speaking of the silence," Nicky said. "Have you noticed the movements in the forest?"
"That's probably an animal or hunters moving around," Joe replied. "Nothing we need to worry about since our hosts are the only ones who know we are here."
They had rented a tent for the winter from a local Sami family.
"Yeah, you are right," Nicky replied. "Let us enjoy the rest of the Aurora Borealis."
Joe agreed, and they snuggled close together while watching the Aurora Borealis, which lasted until dawn.
"I don't know with you, Nico," Joe said. "But I feel inspired to draw something."
"I'm glad to hear that because it has been a long while since you last drew something," Nicky replied. "And I can't wait to see it."
Joe kissed Nicky.
"Thanks," Joe replied. "What will you be doing while I draw?"
"I think I will use the time to learn something new about cooking food over the fire," Nicky replied. "And yes, you can taste the result."
"Thank you," Joe replied. "Should we get down from here?"
Five minutes later, they were on the way back to the village.