The water was warm as it splashed across Hope's belly.
The unicorn mare was sprawled on the sand, taking shelter from the hot sun under a large umbrella. It was a perfect day for a trip to the beach, and the only thing that could make it better was...
"One glass of crystal berry juice, as you requested."
Hope took the proffered drink with her magic. "Thanks," she said to her beloved before patting at the ground beside her with a hoof. "C'mon, there's plenty of shade for the both of us."
Soon enough, she was snuggled up and watching the soft waves crash against the shores, enjoying this moment of peace and serenity. "This is the life," Hope said. "I wish we could do this every day, but I guess even after we get that last shard it isn't in the cards for us."
"Unfortunately, no," her companion replied. "I have my duties to attend to, and once we return to Canterlot, you will have your own studies to continue."
Hope groaned. "Can't believe that my epic quest to revive a lost princess would turn out to be the vacation. At least we can still relax in our dreams, right? Those are better than this, anyways."
"Of course." Luna nuzzled her, and Hope sighed in contentment at the sensation.
"It's really going to be over tomorrow, huh?" Hope asked, returning the gesture.
"Aye," Luna replied. "You have worked hard this past year, and will have a hero's welcome when we return to Canterlot."
"I didn't do it alone, though." Hope sighed, as she often did now when she thought of the one she'd spent this adventure with. "I hope Sombra's doing okay in Griffonstone. And I hope that having a little bit of distance will help him get over me."
"These things take time," Luna said sympathetically. "As you said, love never dies, and while it can change, that is often not an easy process."
"I know." Hope took another sip from her glass. "I just wish there was something I could do."
"Hmm, perhaps there is nothing for you to do." Glancing up, Hope saw a calculating expression on Luna's muzzle. "But I may have an idea. If Sombra could find love again with somepony else, somepony who had once loved another version of him, it would go a long way towards ameliorating his feelings for you, and you for him."
Hope smiled. "That would mean a lot for me if you could help him."
"I am always happy to have the opportunity to play the matchmaker," Luna said. "Especially now that I have found my own perfect match. Once upon another time, I had a taste of joy, and I thought I had lost it all, but now I have you again, and our story has only just begun."
"Aww." They kissed, and this time, when Hope sighed, it was with contentment. "How about we continue our story back in our hotel room? I'll race you there!"
And so, laughing with the joy of an undying love, Hope turned the page of the book of her life, and set out on her next adventure.