Chapter 351
**Sara**
Tom drove us to a waterfront restaurant, where we were seated at a table overlooking the harbor. The city lights reflected on the dark water, creating a tapestry of shimmering gold and silver. The Harbour Bridge we'd just climbed stood illuminated against the night sky, its arch a proud silhouette.
"I can't believe we were just up there," I said, pointing at the bridge. My finger trembled slightly from the exertion.
"Incredible, wasn't it?" Tom's eyes sparkled in the candlelight. "I've been wanting to do that climb for years."
"It was amazing." I stretched my legs under the table and winced. "But I think my muscles are filing for divorce."
A server approached with menus and a bottle of sparkling water. "Good evening. Can I start you with something to drink?"
Tom glanced at me. "Wine?"
"After that climb? I'll need something stronger. Do you have any muscle relaxants on tap?"
The server laughed. "Just did the BridgeClimb, did you? I recommend our signature cocktail, the Harbor Sunset. It has a kick that might help with those aches."
"Sold," I said. "And maybe an ambulance on standby."
After the server left, Tom reached across the table and took my hand. "So, what do you think? Should we do the morning climb tomorrow? I hear the sunrise view is even better."
I stared at him, mouth agape. "You're joking, right? I can barely feel my legs. By tomorrow, I'll be crawling to the bathroom."
"It would be a different perspective," he argued with a mischievous grin.
"The only perspective I'm interested in tomorrow is horizontal. Preferably on a very soft surface."
Our drinks arrived; mine was a vibrant orange and pink concoction, perfectly matching the sunset we had witnessed from the bridge.
"To conquering heights," Tom said, raising his glass.
"To surviving them," I countered, clinking my glass against his.
The cocktail was delicious – sweet with a spicy afterburn that warmed my chest. I took another sip, feeling the tension in my shoulders begin to ease.
"We should order," Tom suggested, opening his menu. "You need protein to help those muscles recover."
"Is that your professional medical opinion, Dr. Blackwood?"
"Absolutely. I'm prescribing steak, plenty of water, and a good night's sleep."
I skimmed the menu, and everything sounded delicious to my post-adventure appetite. "The seafood platter looks amazing."
"Good choice. We'll get that to share, as well as the ribeye."
When the server returned, Tom ordered for us both, adding a bottle of expensive red wine.
"So," I said after the server left, "what other extreme physical activities have you planned for our stay? Bungee jumping? Shark wrestling?"
"I was thinking of something more relaxing tomorrow. Maybe the beach?"
"Now you're speaking my language. Sand, sun, and absolutely no climbing required."
Our food arrived, showcasing a spectacular display of local seafood on ice alongside a perfectly cooked steak. My stomach growled in appreciation.
"This looks incredible," I said, helping myself to a plump shrimp.
"Almost as incredible as you looked in that jumpsuit," Tom teased.
I threw a lemon wedge at him, which he deftly caught. "You're never going to let me forget that, are you?"
"Not a chance. I've already set that photo as my phone background."
"You wouldn't dare."
He pulled out his phone and showed me the screen – sure enough, there we were in our matching jumpsuits, laughing at the summit.
"I hate you," I said, fighting a smile.
"No, you don't."
I helped myself to a bite of the steak, which melted in my mouth. "Oh my god, this is amazing."
"Worth the climb?"
"The food or the view?" I gestured toward the harbor, where a ferry glided across the water, its lights creating a moving reflection.
"Both."
I considered as I savored another bite. "Yes to the food. Ask me about the climb when I can walk normally again."
Tom laughed, reaching for an oyster. "You know, they say these are aphrodisiacs."
"I'm not sure aphrodisiacs will help when I can't feel my lower body."
"We'll need proper sleep tonight," he said, his expression serious but eyes twinkling. "Lots of rest to help with muscle recovery."
"Is that what they're calling it these days? Muscle recovery?"
"Among other things." He topped off my wine glass. "But seriously, a hot shower and stretching will help with the soreness."
"Are you offering to help with that?" I raised an eyebrow.
"I'm a full-service tour guide."
We finished our meal as the night deepened around us. The pain in my legs had dulled to a pleasant ache, a reminder of our achievement. The wine, food, and Tom's company had me feeling relaxed and happy.
"Ready to head back?" Tom asked as we finished the last of our wine.
I nodded, suddenly feeling the day's exertion catching up with me. "Definitely. My muscles are demanding that hot shower you promised."
As we left the restaurant, I took one last look at the bridge, its lights reflecting on the harbor water. Despite the aches, I wouldn't have traded today's adventure for anything.
"It really was worth it," I admitted as Tom helped me into the car. "But if you suggest doing it again tomorrow, I might have to push you into the harbor."
"I'll take that as a solid maybe," Tom replied, closing my door before walking around to the driver's side.
"Take it as a solid 'Ask me again in ten years when I've forgotten how this feels.'" I leaned back against the leather seat, enjoying the luxury of not having to move.
Tom drove us through the city, the night lights of Sydney reflecting off the car's hood. I found myself staring out the window, mesmerized by the Opera House glowing against the darkness. Despite my complaints, I couldn't deny that today had been incredible.
"Penny for your thoughts?" Tom asked, glancing over at me.
"Just thinking about how beautiful this city is. And how you've managed to make even torture enjoyable."
"That's quite a talent I have." He reached over and squeezed my hand. "Making torture enjoyable."
"Don't let it go to your head."
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