~Friday~ The next day was Friday, and Jennifer was glad she didn't have to work. Her whole body ached from scrubbing the night before. She arrived just in time to get to her class, and didn't see Simon or Lucy either one.

At lunch she met Simon in their usual spot. He had a sad, apologetic look on his face.

"I'm so sorry Jennifer. I didn't mean for you to be late last night. We were having such a good time....."

"It's alright Simon, it wasn't your fault," she said, hugging him.

"Are you feeling ok?" he asked as they sat down.

"Yeah, I'm just tired. Mr. Fredrickson made me work late. I'm just glad I don't have to work tonight."

"Oh, that reminds me, do you have any other plans for tonight?"

"No, I don't think so. I'm guessing you have an idea?" she smiled at him.

"Well, it's my mom's birthday tonight, and Dad is taking us all out to dinner. He asked Luce and I to invite you."

"I don't know Simon, I mean, isn't it a family thing?"

"Well yes, but my whole family loves you, and Lucy needs someone to play piano for her, she's singing for mom at the restaurant."

"So basically your using me, is that right?" Jen said, standing up and laughing.

"Yeah, maybe," he said smiling, "So will you go?"

"Sure, why not."

The bell rang and the two departed. Lucy came and got Jen out of study hall, and Lucy saw the look of shame on her friends face as they sat down on the steps.

"So, did Simon ask you about tonight."

"Yes, and I told him I would go, but there's just one problem. I just realized I don't have anything nice enough to wear." Lucy thought for a moment.

"Oh, that's no big deal. I'm sure we can find something of Mary's that will fit you."

"Really? Oh thanks Luce your the best!" Jen said, hugging the older girl. Lucy smiled and they talked until the bell rang. Jen could hardly wait till that evening.

Jennifer met up with Lucy and Simon when the school day ended. Soon they arrived at the Camden's, and Eric was waiting at the door.

"I'm so glad you could come Jennifer. This will really make my wife happy."

"No problem Reverend Camden, it's the least I could do for someone as wonderful Mrs. Camden." Jennifer said, following Lucy up the stairs so they could look for something to wear.

After about an hour, Lucy had found a red dress that Mary had once wore that fit Jen perfectly. Lucy had settled on a nice black dress that fit her figure as well. Since the dinner was a surprise, Matt would be driving the family to the restaurant early and then Eric would drive Annie separately. The only other non-family member to attend was Robbie, and Mary would be the only Camden child not present.

When Jen and Lucy walked down the steps Reverend Camden, Matt, Robbie, Simon, Ruthie and the twins were all standing by the door. Whistles erupted from the boys and it made both girls blush.

"You guys need to get going, Julie and Hank will be bringing Annie home anytime now. See you at the restaurant."

All the kids piled into the family's van, and drove to the fanciest restaurant in Glen Oak, which is located in the York Plaza hotel.

They all sat down and ordered drinks, waiting axiously for Eric and Annie to arrive. Jennifer sat between Simon and Lucy, making small talk. A few minutes before his parents would arrive, Simon leaned over and whispered to his brother Matt.

"Jennifer really looks pretty tonight, doesn't she?" He asked, his eyes shining.

"Yes, she does. Do you like her Simon?"

But Matt didn't get the chance to finish. Eric and Annie walked in just then, and all the kids all clapped and smiled.

"Oh, this is so wonderful. How did you all plan this without me knowing."

"It was easy. Just as long as we kept Ruthie quiet." Robbie said, smiling.

"Hey, at least I can keep secrets now." The whole family laughed.

"But the surprise isn't over Mom. Just sit back and enjoy." Lucy said, as her and Jennifer stood up and walked over to the stage. Jen sat at the piano and got ready to play, as Lucy announced what was going on.

"Ladies and Gentleman, tonight is Annie Camden's birthday, and as her daughter I could think of no better present than to sing her a song. Along with my friend Jennifer on piano, I'm going to sing my mom's favorite song, the same song her mother sang to us Camden kids when we were little. I hope you enjoy, Happy Birthday mom."

Jennifer slowly began to play, and Lucy began to sing.

"When I fall in love, it will be forever. Or I'll never fall, in love In a restless world, like this is... Love has ended before it's began, And too many, of my kisses Seem to melt in the warmth of the sun. When I give my heart, it will be completely, Or I'll never give, my heart And the moment, I can feel that....... You feel that way too, I will give my heart to you."

The crowd roared with applause as Jennifer played the last few notes of the song. Both girls received a standing ovation. As Simon stood and clapped he couldn't stand to take his eyes off of Jennifer. Annie stood and hugged both girls when they came back.

"Thank you both, so much. That was beautiful Lucy." She had tears in her eyes.

"Your welcome Mom."

"Jennifer, you played beautifully. You really do have a gift with music."

"Thank you Mrs. Camden." Jennifer blushed.

They all sat and ate as a family, everyone enjoying themselves and reflecting on birthday's passed. Jennifer tried her hardest not to cry, feeling the love of the family envelop her. Matt noticed how often Simon snuck looks at the young girl, and smiled. "That little rascal's in love" he thought, smiling even more. "Good for him."

The kids left early, at 8 o'clock, and let Eric and Annie stay behind and enjoy some drinks at the restaurant. Matt stopped the car in front of the Diner, letting Jennifer out there. Simon got out to walk her to her door.

"Oh Simon, its ok, you don't need to walk me. I have to go to the Diner and ask Mr. Fredrickson a question anyway. Thank you though."

Simon had a disappointed look on his face. "I just wanted to tell you that you looked absolutely gorgeous tonight." He blushed.

Jennifer blushed too. "Thank you Simon. I'll see you soon, ok?" As she finished speaking she hugged him. He hugged her back and whispered goodnight before letting her go, and getting back into the van. Jen was glad he left fast so he couldn't see the tears running down her cheeks.

"Goodnight Simon."

*********************************************************************** Touching huh???? I'm sure you guy's see a few things coming. This is a good creative burst for me. Saturday and Sunday soon. Review please!!!!!