Authors Note:

Hey guys, I'm here with another update. This chapter hasn't really had major changes to it like the last as I found that I am somewhat satisfied with how I originally wrote it. But there are some changes format wise and details added. I hope you all enjoy it. Well that's all, again the normal things, I would love it if you would comment and subscribe.

Bird of Paradise

Lily's POV

Sunlight was the first thing I register waking up. Sunlight beaming right into my bedroom and shining directly on my eyes. Groaning, I roll over to try and escape the monster that had woken me so early in the morning on the weekend. I wanted some much needed and deserved rest after the grueling week at school. There had been multiple quizzes and tests on the human circular system, theoretically calculating dosages within a set time limit for each question, and even quizzes about proper protocols and behaviors. Things that may have seemed like common sense but intensified.

Nursing school was hell, but I was proud of the work I was doing. Similar to high school, I was at the top of my class and was passing my classes. It was not without doing the hard work, though, for the first time, I felt challenged by the task given to me, and I felt overjoyed every time I received my grades. As I slowly started seeing myself progress. Long nights were spent studying and focusing on skills and techniques.

I tried to go back to sleep, but the sun seemed determined to keep me awake, I glance at the clock 8:45 it read to me. Sighing, I figured that I should make the most of the day if I wasn't able to sleep. Besides, I had a long day planned, Leah wanted us to set up the bonfire and make sure we had the tables set up for the mountain of food that Sue was going to cook and bake.

Leah had decided we needed to go full out for my birthday, she had taken it upon herself to invite basically everyone I ever knew as a person to a bonfire to celebrate. She had said to me while making the party plans that "You only turn 18 once, and it will be only a couple more years till we can drink legally, and we can have a big ass party."

I had laughed in return, figuring it's going to be a night of drunken fun and a chance to let down my hair. Something I hadn't been able to do in what felt like forever.

We often drank together starting when we were 16, like most teenagers who were secretly rebelling against society and the rules of the world. We would go surfing or hiking, and then after our adventures we would be sharing a bottle of whiskey or whatever we had flirted with the liquor stores employee to get.

Most of the time it was Leah going in, using the fact that she looked much older than she was and also no one wanted to be caught giving the chiefs daughter alcohol underage.

I'm pretty sure dad knew I was drinking, but I was always safe only drinking with Leah when we made plans for me to stay the night, so he never really said anything.

Sarah Black had lost her life to a drunk driver that night she went out to get cold medicine for Jacob, and I saw how bad it had shaken my dad to lose one of his friends. Also it had hurt me to see how devastated the Blacks became after losing her. So I had promised myself he would not bury a daughter.

Soon I was altered to the fact that my dad was right outside my door due to the groaning of the hardwood floors. I heard a soft knock then his deep voice asking, "Lily, are you awake?"

"Yeah, dad, I'm awake," I replied, sitting up as he walked in. he was holding two gifts, wrapped perfectly in gold sparkly paper, there was even a beautiful bow placed in the middle. I was instantly clued into the fact that Sue must have wrapped them because dad wraps like a drunk monkey. "Dad, did you really get Aunt Sue to wrap my presents instead of wrapping them yourself?"

He walked towards my desk, switching on the light so I could fully see. "Well, I thought you would like it if the presents looked perfect before you opened them." He shrugged.

Dad always thought that if the presents looked perfect, then the gift inside would be perfect for me. I had always told him that it didn't matter; the gift could be in a gift bag, and I would still appreciate whatever he got me. He knew me best, and he took great care picking out my presents.

Renée had started sending me gifts for holidays and my birthday, sending mostly art supplies ever since we had started seeing each other every summer. I knew that dad sent Bella gifts, especially since she decided she no longer wanted to come to Forks for the summer.

"Well, go ahead, open them, this one is from me while the other is from your mother."

Handing me the present from him, I observed that it was a medium-sized package and felt slightly heavy while it was handed over. I took great care when opening it, not wanting to ruin the wrapping paper that Sue lovingly to the time to wrap.

"Oh, Lily, hurry it up. I'm growing old waiting for you to open the thing." Dad teased.

Chuckling, I replied with, "You're already old."

After unwrapping the present, I came to a plain box underneath. It was nondescript and kept the gift still a mystery. Shaking the box did nothing to help clue me into what it was. It didn't jingle, so jewelry was out besides dad knew that in my field of work, jewelry besides wedding rings, watches, and small earrings were not allowed.

I took a deep breath and opened the box. Gasping out loud, I looked straight into his eyes. "Dad, no, you didn't."

Laying within the box was a Littmann Stethoscope in the rose pink color. This was the breast cancer edition, which easily went for $104 or more depending on where he got it. I had been researching the best stethoscopes to get since clinicals were soon approaching for me. I had figured that I would just get a simple generic one that was said to be decent and would eventually save up for the Littmann after I got an official nursing job.

I had gotten a part-time job at the diner when I was 16, but most of the money I earned went toward my car payments for my baby. I had gotten a 2000 Ford Mustang in a dark black. Dad had helped me sign the lease and gave me the official down payment, but the rest of the monthly payments were up to me. Dad didn't like that I had picked in his eyes a "flashy" car but relented when he found out it had a five-star safety rating. But he still stressed when ever we had icy and snowy weather. He worried that the back wheel drive would hold up again the weather but to his surprise, it did every time.

Picking the stethoscope up, I felt tears welling up in my eyes. "Dad, how did you get this, how did you know."

With a deep chuckle, dad looked at me and smiled. "I looked through your search history on the computer and ordered it. I'm taking you like it."

I was used to dad checking up on what I did online, learning the dangers of the internet made him a little paranoid of what I could be doing and who I was talking to. So ever since we got a home computer he would look ever now and again. It wasn't that he didn't trust me but simply wanted to know I was safe. I didn't really mind anyway, seeing as I just used it for study and talking to Leah.

But sure enough tears slowly fell down my face that knowing that dad went to all this trouble to get me something that I never even mentioned to him, he wasn't the most tech-savvy person. Even still, he had gotten me something that would last me a lifetime. I flew off my bed, almost tackling him with the force of the hug I gave him.

"Like it, dad, I love it," I replied with my voice cracking.

With a small smile, he looked at me and said: "I'm glad, but you didn't even look closely at it, look at the back."

I picked up the stethoscope with exceptional care as if it would break or disappear the moment I touched it. Holding it up to the light, I saw there was engraving on the left side around the head. It was small but easily seen when you looked closely.

Written was the phrase: I love you, Lily Pad. Be safe.

Tears again welled up and ran down my cheeks, this simple phrase that we always said before leaving for work or me going off to see Renée would always be close to my heart now. Every time I used it, it would be a reminder of his love for me.

I knew it wasn't easy being a single dad, even if I was mostly a well-behaved child. He had to play the role of both mom and dad. Trying his best to juggle his work responsibilities and my interests. I knew he felt like he wasn't doing enough and was afraid he was going to mess up but he was always there for me.

"Oh daddy, I can't even put into words how much I love it. It's absolutely perfect."

Dad, with an even deeper voice slightly choking, as if he was holding back his own tears, "I just … just want you to know I'm always here for you, and I know you'll do great things. I'm already so proud of the women you're becoming Liliana."

This phrase set off a new round of tears for me as that's all I've ever wanted to do is make my dad proud of me. It was part of the reason I worked so hard, the reason I strive so hard to be the best. His and Leah's opinions of me was the only thing that mattered.

Dad cleared he throat and started to hand me the next box. "Now we should probably move on to you're mother's gift. We sort of collaborated." He stated as I grabbed the box out of his hand.

Shock ran through me as he handed me the larger box, typically my dad and Renée barley interacted so to see them come together to figure out what to get me was a miracle.

Figuring from what he said about them collaborating the gift was probably some sort of thing to help me with nursing, I ripped the gift open with our much of fanfare.

Laying inside this box was a pair of scrubs but not any scrubs; they were Dagacci scrubs in ceil blue. There was also a pair of Figs scrub pants in a ceil blue. I was happy to add them to my collection. I slowly started growing my wardrobe to be ready for clinicals and my future job. I was also pleased that they were in my preferred color, which also happened to be the required color for my school.

"Their great dad, I'll have to call Renée later to thank her. Now there's plenty of time for me to make breakfast for us. What do you want?" I walked towards my chair to grab my robe and slippers that I had gotten for Christmas the year before from Reneé.

Dad surprised me though by saying: "Actually, I'm going in late today, so I figured that you wanted a break from making food. Plus it is your birthday, after all, so we were going to go to the diner and have breakfast."

Working there made me more appreciate everyone that worked there, it also made me feel closer to the community in our town. the other servers had become friends. The older workers had really taking me under their wing and would always make sure I ate or just simply took a moment to breath when we had down time. Especially Jolene who saw it as her mission to make me gain weight, often commenting to me "you're nothing but skin and bones." But I knew she said it out of love. She has been working at the diner well for forever I guess and had seen me grow through the countless times dad had brought me there.

"Okay then, just let me get ready, and we'll head out."

It was sunny, and I could almost feel the humidity from inside my room, so deciding my outfit wasn't too hard. Putting on some light blue tight short shorts that had frayed edges and adding a laced flowy cream cropped top that fell off my shoulders on top. I was quite satisfied with the outfit, it was a casual and comfortable, something that I always strived for. Plus with this shirt I am hoping to get some sun on my pale skin. I also added a brown faded wide brimmed fedora as an accessory to complete the look.

It only took me about 30 minutes to get ready and head downstairs. I walk into the living room to find my dad watching the television, which was tuned to the news. The weatherwomen was explaining for the next three days the high would be 65 and sunny during the day while it would only be 55 during the night and bright. I smiled, the bonfire tonight would be great because it wouldn't be that cold and no rain so we could truly enjoy the night.

"I'm ready to go whenever you are dad.

He quickly turned off the television and stretched while he rose out of his favorite green fabric recliner. I swear he had bought that thing 20 years ago, and it was clearly worn down, but he still refused to get a new one or even sit anywhere else than that chair. Even when I had offered to replace it. "If it's not broke to pieces it's stills works" he would reply.

"Are we taking my car or yours?" I asked.

He answered in a tired voice, he wasn't used to going without coffee this early in the morning. "I figured we would drive separate since after breakfast, I'm heading to the station, and I'm sure you're heading to La Push to finish setting the party up."

"Sounds like a plan, besides I know you hate riding in my car."

It was true dad always complained whenever I drove, preferring to be the driver at all times and hating that I blared my music, always saying that it's "too loud" and "how can you focus on the road," which always made me laugh. He also never really liked being the passenger, since it had always been him in the driver seat.

But I had passed my driving test with flying colors, and due to dad's overprotection, I basically knew the driving rules verbatim. I also memorized the layout of the town through my learners permit phase. It wasn't like I was completely oblivious to the ways around town but I had started to pay attention to the little things. Like how Miss Amanda, my old kindergarten teachers house always had some kind of flowers blooming in her front yard or that every holiday season Mrs. Dewitt would cover her house with lights bright enough to blind everyone who went down her street.

I got in my car and started it listening to the pleasing sound of its purr. I waited for dad to back up and head towards the diner so that I can also pull out of the drive. While I waited, I pushed in a CD that I had rummaged through my glove box for.

This particular CD was the new album by Blink – 182 and I had been listening to it on repeat to the point where dad kept saying

"Why are you still listening to that shit."

He had figured when I was 17 that I no longer needed to be babied when it came to language, especially since I was already cussing. I guess he knew that was a battle he didn't want to fight.

I slowly made my way to the diner; I couldn't floor it like typical because dad was in front of me, and like he told me the day I got my permanent license, "I'm not afraid to pull my own daughter over." And he was completely serious. Pulling up to the diner, I pulled into the spot beside dad and turned off the car.

Walking into the diner, I'm immediately wrapped in a hug. "OH LILY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY," I heard Joanne yell immediately, alerting the rest of the staff that I had come in.

"Thank you, Joanne has it been busy today," I reply, flashing a bright smile, but internally feeling claustrophobic, I didn't really like being touched by others, who weren't my family. But I knew it would hurt her feelings if I pulled away so I stuck it out for the brief moment.

She quickly guided us to our regular booth and handed menus even though we had the routine of getting the same meal when we come here. Dad would get heart-stopping sunny side eggs with pork chops that have been pan-fried along with a side of bacon. While I would get a cheese and spinach omelet with extra cheese and hot sauce with a cup of fruit and grits to go along side it.

"Oh, the usual Saturday rush, but never you mind that, it's your birthday and day off, so don't be focusing on us. Anywho I'm guessing you two want to start out with a pot of coffee?" we both nod our head in agreement to that question. I had started drinking coffee last year to deal with the late-night studying required for tests and labs.

"I'll have it right out then," Joanna said while she was walking away. It felt like no time when she was back with our coffee, and we placed our orders. She simply smiled and rushed off to get our orders in to Grover, the head cook and owner of the diner.

"So spring semester ends in two weeks, right?" dad asked while taking a sip of his coffee. I was placing cream and sugar in mine, which dad always said was a sin. He believed that actual coffee is only served black, and that's how you should drink it. I nodded in response.

"You sure you want to do summer classes, just because Bella's not coming to Forks this summer doesn't mean that you can't go to Arizona, plus you can finally see Bella if you go."

I sighed. He'd been pushing that point since being told that Bella was staying in Phoenix from now on. It's not that I didn't want to see her, I've been dreaming of that moment ever since she was taken away by Renée, but my dream of being a nurse is so close that I could almost taste it. I just wanted to get on my way to be a fully registered nurse and start helping the people in our community as soon as possible. Besides, there would be plenty of time for us to reconnect at a later date.

After taking a sip of my coffee, I looked into his eye and said: "Dad, I want to start clinicals in the fall, and to do that, I have to take the summer session."

Thankfully our food arrived before he had a chance to respond, but I knew after we had eaten, he would bring up the subject at least one more time.

Not long after we began to eat, all my coworkers, even the grumpy old manager Micheal, came out singing happy birthday with pie.

With a deep belly laugh, my dad started to join in with his off tune voice, all while I died of embarrassment. My face became hot, flushing red. I put my head down on the table and cringed as I listened and felt the stares of the other patrons.

I had never enjoyed having happy birthday, sang to me at restaurants, and dad especially knew this. When they were all done, Joanne gave me a kiss on the cheek and let us return to our meals. With my face still flaming red, "You set that up."

He started laughing even louder after taking a look at my tomato red face. "you've never blushed this hard Lily Pad, I think it's a good look for you."

I picked up a couple of napkins, balling them up and throwing them in his face. All the while sticking my tongue out like a toddler.

After he managed to reign himself back in, we continued eating, and after some time, we finished our meals. I ordered a small slice of coconut cream to bring Leah, and we left after dad paid the bill.

"So, what time do you think you'll be home tomorrow?" He asked while we were walking back out to our cars.

Pondering the question, I answered with, "I'm not sure, probably around 10 or so. It depends on when we finish cleaning the beach tomorrow." It also depended on when I woke up from my hangover.

Dad nodded in response while giving me a quick hug and a kiss on the forehead while saying, "Be safe tonight. You have your pepper spray right?"

"Yes dad, I always carry it."

He nodded his head in approval, "have fun with your friends. I'll see you in the morning."

I waved as he pulled out of the parking spot and headed towards the sheriff station. I got in my car and started to head my way to Leah's house.

I arrived at the house around 12:30 taking my time going down the backroads, enjoying having the windows down and the rare sun shining in my face.

Pulling into the gravel driveway, I had barely had gotten out of my car when I saw the front door fly open and a beam of black hair running towards me. I scramble to brace myself for the impending tackle. I had apparently not braced myself hard enough because soon enough I felt myself hitting the ground and the wind being knocked out of me.

I hear a sultry voice saying, "oh my god, I'm sorry, I'm sorry. Totally didn't mean to hit you so hard."

It took me a few moments to gain my breathing back, but as so as I did, I answered back with a slightly breathy voice, "It's fine, Leah, it's just what I wanted on my birthday to get the wind knocked out of me. Spectacular gift, really."

I was meet with a snort as Leah pulled me up to a sitting position. "Glad I could deliver what you wanted. Now come on, get up. We have a lot to do and not a lot of time."

"Isn't it supposed to be the birthday girls' day off, not the day she works overtime for her own party," I said in a sarcastic tone.

Another snort came back as she laughed "you wish, besides with the amount of work that needs to be done, I'm going to need help. Mom's already been cooking away since dawn to get all the food ready." She must have noticed the look on my face, and before I could respond, she continued to pull me into the house. "oh no, I know that look, we are having this party. I've spent weeks planning it, and you're finally going to meet Sam. Besides, I've missed you so much, it seems like we're never together anymore. And before you say it you're not a burden, mom is more than happy to help with the party."

"Leah, I would have been fine just having a simple party with our friends, it didn't have to be this big to do. I'm sorry that we haven't had a chance to party or hang out." I responded, pulling her into a hug. "I'm sure he's a great guy Leah, I can't wait to meet him after all he's all you've been talking about for months over the phone."

"He really is, He makes me so happy plus mom and dad love him as well. I think mom loves him even more than she loves me." She responded, giving me are hard to squeeze. "Now come on, I figured we could help mom with some of the food. Especially since you are a goddess when it comes to the kitchen."

We continue into the kitchen, talking about who all was going to come. Although we were sure, we would pick up a few extra people who weren't invited, not that we minded as long as everyone behaved and didn't get my father called on us.

I had been too far too many parties where he had been called. Leah and I had to hide in the most obscure spots to not get caught. But the one time when we had gotten caught, I cried the whole way home. I couldn't bare to see his disapproving look.

We continued into the kitchen when the force of another body hitting me almost knocked me to the ground again.

"Seth Clearwater, what have I said about running in the house." I heard Sue yell out.

I looked down at Seth, beaming back at his mother with a cheesy grin. "Sorry mom, I just was excited to see Lily, it's been forever since she's been here."

Sue stared Seth down with a look that meant no excuses "I don't care the reason, Seth, there is to be no running in the house. You could have seriously hurt Lily by ramming into her in here."

Seth looked down thoroughly chasten, and in a soft voice, he replied, murmuring a "Sorry Mom, sorry Lily."

Ruffling his hair and giving him a kiss on his forehead. "It's no worse than the welcoming gift that your sister gave me. Besides, it has been forever, hasn't it? I promise I'll try to come around more often." Seth immediately ripped away from me, wiping his forehead as if he would catch an illness from my kiss, he was in the age range now where he thought all girls had cooties, and then fixing his hair from where I had messed it up.

"It's not your fault Lily, besides nursing school is hard work. You should be spending plenty of time focusing on your studies. Although we have missed you around here." Sue said as she came up and gave me a hug. "Happy birthday Lily."

"Thank you, Aunt Sue. Also, thank you for cooking so much food for tonight's party." I said, returning the hug.

"It's no problem, honey, besides it's the least I can do. What else do you girls have to do for the party tonight?" Sue asked as she turned back to focus on the stove.

Leah spoke up while throwing an arm around my shoulders "We have quite a lot to do. We have to collect all the sticks and wood for the bonfire, which might take a while, set up the table for food and cake, and then bring down the cooler for the soda. Also, Lil said she would help decorate the cake tonight."

"Sounds like you girls are going to have a busy day. Lily, you don't have to help with the cake if you don't want to. I know my cake decorating skills aren't as elaborate as yours, but I'm up to the task," Sue said kindly.

I responded with a smile, "It's truly fine Aunt Sue, you know I enjoy decorating cakes and all that stuff." It was true, I found that my artistic skill could translate to baked goods and with the found another hobby to focus on when I had the time. Dad had probably gained a significant amount of weight due to that fact.

"Oh, that reminds me, Leah, I picked you up a pie when I was at the diner this morning. It's in my car; just let me go and get it, then we can start setting everything up."

"Let me go with you, we can make a timeline of when we need to get things done," Leah said with a smirk.

Leah and I headed out of the house and walked the short distance to the car when Leah spoke up "I got a handle of whiskey yesterday, we should have enough for and after party just for us."

"If you really think we'll go through a handle in a night, you're crazy," I said while laughing aloud. "We'd be so sick in the morning that nothing would be able to explain away why we're puking our guts up."

"It's part of your birthday gift. I have a special one, but you're not getting that till later at the party." Leah smiled at me and pulled on a strand of my hair.

I unlocked the car and reached across the driver seat and pulled out the pie. We walked back into the house, and Leah put it in the fridge.

We talked a little bit about how nursing school was going. Around 1:30, Leah announced that we should start on our plans.

Sue wished us luck on finding enough wood for the fire and said that the cake should be done and cool around 3:30 which was good since the party started at 5:30. It gave me a good hour and a half to finish the cake and bring all the food down to the beach which would take several trips.

Walking towards the beach, Leah began talking about Sam. They had been dating for about 6 months, I hadn't met him yet due to my crazy school schedule and his work schedule. The stars never aligned for us to meet as it was always lined up to him working when I was free. Sam worked with a construction company, and apparently, his dream was to own his own.

As I listened to Leah, she said she had the suspicion that Sam was going to propose soon.

"Why do you think that, Leah? Isn't it kinda soon." I asked.

She smiled brightly, and with a cheery voice, she said, "Well, he's been working a lot of overtime, and he's been mentioning and casually bringing up marriage a lot. I'm sure he's going to propose at some point soon. Also I don't think it's too soon, I mean remember my grandparents they were together a month before they got engaged, 3 months when they got married, and had been together for 59 years.

"Well, if you're sure that going to happen, I demand to be the maid of honor, who knows I might find Mr. Right at the wedding," I said, bumping into her with my shoulder. I truly wished her luck and wanted her to be happy. But, she knew my opinion on marriage, yet she had always dreamed of having a loving marriage of her own. I don't blame her for that either, she grew up with parents that expressed their love for each other everyday, while I just heard the arguments and insults. I never wanted to be married. Sure, if I found the right person I would want to be with them but to do something so permanent as marriage that was something I could never do.

"Of course you're going to be the maid of honor, there's no one else that deserves to be up there standing up there beside me. You're my sister," Leah responded while bumping me back.

We quickly got to work picking up branches of driftwood and making a pile. We had to make sure we had enough to keep the fire going through most of the night. Time flew while we prepared. It took us a good two and a half hours just took collect the wood. Next came to take all the tables and cooler down to the beach. It was around 3 by the time we finished setting everything up. We were both we already exhausted and Leah was definitely cursing herself on how she had planned such a party.

When we arrived back at the house for the final time, I immediately got to work on the cake. It was a two-tier red velvet cake which made me smile, Sue had made sure there was enough cake for me to take home to dad, and it was my favorite flavor. I frosted it, making sure the body of the cake was a steel grey and the frosted the edges of the cake a deep black. On the top, I elegantly wrote the number 18 and made rosettes to surround the number. I stepped away from the cake with a satisfied smile. It wasn't the most detailed or artistic, but it was still something I was proud of.

"Oh, it looks so good, honey." I heard Sue said as she walked into the kitchen.

I jumped slightly, not hearing her walk in. I turned around and smiled.

"Thank you, Aunt Sue. I guess you just finished taking the food down to the beach." She has taken over my tasks with Leah so I could focus on finishing the cake.

Sue nodded, "Yes, it's all down there, there's plenty of food for everyone, probably more than enough but I didn't know how many you're expecting there."

"I'm sure that it'll be gone by the end of the night. Your food is delicious." I said, giving her a hug. "Well, I should probably get the cake down there and help get the fire started. Besides it'll get dark soon, and I don't want to trip over a tree root taking the cake."

"Of course, we'll see you girls in the morning. Have fun with your friends." She replied while rubbing my back soothingly. "Happy birthday, Liliana. It's hard to believe you're already 18."

I smiled and grabbed the cake. Starting on my way to the beach, I took to the forest route that spiraled down to the beach. It was calming, seeing all the green and lush trees. There was something that drew me into the scenery.

It didn't take long for me to arrive at the beach. I saw a couple people had already arrived and were milling about helping Leah put the sticks in the right arrangement to get the biggest fire we could possibly have. I set the cake down on the table just as the sun began to set. Spotting a few of the girls from nursing school headed off to talk to them.

Sam's POV

I sighed as I pulled up to First Beach, I was running late, and I knew Leah was going to bite my head off. I was supposed to be here by 6, it was now 7:15, but I couldn't get off the job site until I had finished working on the wall supports.

She would have a good reason to be mad. She had been waiting months for me to meet Lily, and I wanted to make a good impression and being late to Lily's party was not exactly a great start. Putting my truck in park, I took a deep breath.

To say I was nervous about meeting Leah's best friend slash sister would be an understatement. Leah was continually talking about her and was always super proud of her while constantly saying that she was her non-sexual soulmate. I shook my head; there was no reason for me to put her on a pedestal, she is just a normal person, and from what Leah told me she was a down to earth person. I was suddenly thrown out of my thoughts when I heard a knock on my window, turning my head, I saw Leah standing outside my truck with an annoyed look on her face.

"Time to face the music," I muttered. I opened the door and stepped out.

"What the hell, Sam, you said you'd be here at 6" Leah snapped with a displeased voice. "I almost thought you had forgotten about the party and were never going to show up."

"I'm sorry, Lee-Lee. The project I was working on took longer than expected, and I had to have it done for Monday," I said in a hopefully soothing voice while rubbing her shoulder. "Besides, I would never forget such an important event for you, and I'm excited to finally meet Lily."

Her face seemed to relax, and a small smile began to grace her lips. "Okay, okay, I forgive you; besides I don't think that Lil's noticed anyway she's been mingling with the other guest. If you had been any later, you would have missed us cutting the cake and handing out presents. Also, I think Lily is just as excited about meeting you, you two will have more time to talk when everyone leaves, and it's just the three of us." She took a deep break and looked me in the eye "You two are the most important people in my life besides, you know, my parents and Seth." She replied with a bright tone and lightly kissing me on the lips.

I gave a small sigh then smiled, I don't think I could make it through the night if she was pissed at me. I need her support tonight, I didn't want to make a fool of myself. "Well let's get this show on the road, why don't we," I exclaimed while grabbing the presents from the passenger seat and locking my truck.

We began walking towards the bonfire holding hands while the gifts were nestled under my other arm. Leah noticed the two gifts. "Sam, you didn't have to get her two presents; one is good enough besides you haven't even told me what you got her," Leah commented.

"Well, they're a joint gift for Lily and you, so of course, I had to keep them a secret," I replied with a smirk. "You'll know what they are soon enough, I only hope that you and Lily like what I got."

Leah turned to me with a surprised look on her face. "Isn't it bad taste to give someone else, other than the birthday girl a present." Leah quickly rushed out.

I chuckled with an even brighter smile "I don't care, I got you both a present deal with it."

"Okay, then, and I'm sure we'll love what you got us," Leah replied and gave me a kiss on the cheek.

As we got closer, I noticed that there was quite a number of people milling about. Some were hanging by the fire, and others were dancing to the small boombox that someone had brought. I suddenly realized that while all this time that Leah has been talking about Lily, she never once mentioned what she looks like. So I started scanning the crowd trying to pick out which girl she could be. Could she be the tall and tan blonde, or could it be the short and pale burette girl that the blonde was talking to? She probably would have dark hair like the Chief, but you never could know.

Turning to Leah, I quietly asked: "Which one's Lily?"

Leah laughed at the question and quickly called out, "LIL, COME OVER HERE!"

I scanned the crowd once more to see who would come forth. Stepping out from behind the fire was a pale strawberry blonde. She quickly looked around, trying to locate where the voice had come from and locked on to our location. She excused herself from the conversation with a slightly tan blonde-haired boy who looked disappointed as she walked away. As she got closer, I noticed she was a bit taller than average height standing a little above 5'6," but I knew I would still tower over her with my 6'2" frame. She had a petite frame but large hips and what looked like long but strong legs, probably due to the amount of walking and standing a nurse had to do and as a waitress.

She continued drawing near, I took in her facial features, she had a pleasing heart-shaped face. Perfectly arched eyebrows framed a set of wide doe-eyes, although I couldn't tell what color they are from a distance in the darkened sky. Her nose was long and thin, with the end being turned up slightly, and her mouth was full, giving her a pouty look, and they were the color of a pink rose.

I realized the reason that the blonde hair boy was disappointed that his conversation had ended, she was simply stunning. She walked with an air of grace that was often hard to achieve and looked forced, but with her, it was effortless. She continued to draw closer, and I felt my hands starting to shake but steeled my resolve, I would not make a fool of myself. I repeated in my head.

"Oh, Leah, thank god you saved me from Luke Newton I don't think I could listen to him dabble on about different types of rope and their purposes any longer," Lily said with an exasperated tone. I don't think she had noticed me yet as her sole focus was on Leah.

Leah laughed loudly, "You know you can always leave a conversation whenever you want. You don't have to just endure it, especially not today."

Lily sighed and replied, "I know, but he looked so much like a puppy-dog that I didn't want to be rude."

"Who cares Lil, it's your day, and besides that, the boy needs to get over his crush on you." Leah responded, still chuckling, "Anyway, someone finally arrived." She smiled excitedly and turned to me, saying, "Lil meet Sam, Sam, this is the infamous Lil."

Lily finally turned to me, giving me a breathtaking wide smile. "I have heard so much about you, it feels like I practically know you already. You're basically all she ever talks about."

I nodded and replied, "Same to you. Happy birthday, by the way, where should I set down your presents."

"Over by the food, I felt it was the only place far away enough from the fire. Come follow me, I think it's about time to cut the cake and start with presents. I'm hoping the party ends around 9:30ish so we can have our private party," Leah said with a wink.

We quickly followed her to the food table, and I noticed the was a large spread of food. There were even materials to make s' mores, which Lily said they would be doing a bit later. I also noticed that there were quite many gifts, but that was easily explained by the number of people at the party. I think there was about thirty people all hanging out seeming to enjoy each other's company. I don't know how many people had already known each other, but no one was acting awkward and hanging on the sidelines.

"So how do you know everyone Lily," I said while setting the gifts down on the sand.

"Well some of the girls are from nursing school, I'm surprised even they came, most live in Port Angeles. Others were the few that were actually nice to me in high school. Of course, some others heard about the party and decided to crash it, but they brought me something, so I guess I can let it slide." She said while grabbing a chip.

"I'm guessing you didn't have many friends in high school then," I replied, looking at her. I instantly regretted the phrase. I wanted to slap myself. It was not exactly a good talking point. But I couldn't imagine why she would have a hard time making friends, she seemed to have a calming presence, and I instantly felt welcomed in her company.

Lily sighed and looked out to the fire, "you could say that. Going through puberty while in high school instead of the normal middle school wasn't exactly the greatest situation and combine that with being one of the smarter students in the class didn't help. Then she whispered, probably thinking I couldn't hear, "Not to mention my family issues."

Not knowing what to say, I could only nod in agreement. I wanted to ask about her comment but I had a feeling now was not the time.

Moving us on to the next topic, Leah announced: "Well, I think it's time for cake, right?"

Lily smiled at Leah, and the turned to the crowd and said: "Everyone, it's time for cake!"

Lily's POV

As I announced that it was time for cake, everyone slowly meandered their way over to the food table, some still engrossed in their conversations. But soon, everyone paid attention as Leah began lighting the candles on the cake, and I slowly prepared for the most embarrassing time-honored traditions, the happy birthday song. Sure it was cute when you were 5 as everyone paid attention to you, but as you grow older, it just gets awkward and more embarrassing. Just like at the diner. Leah started it off by singing the first word while giving me a cheeky smile, and soon everyone joined in. I must have been red from my head to my toes as I listened to the very off-key song, but soon enough, it was over. I stood over the cake and took a deep breath.

"Make sure you wish for something good!" Leah said cheerfully.

Taking a deep breathe and centering my mind., I blew the candles out.

After everyone gave a round of applause. I began to cut the cake giving everyone, however big of a slice they wanted, I noticed most of the boys tried to get the biggest cut they could. So I purposefully set aside three pieces for Leah, Sam, and I to make sure we got a slice. Soon enough, all of the cake was gone, and everyone was sitting around the fire, enjoying it. Too bad for dad that I wouldn't have any to bring back.

"Lily, this is really good" I heard from beside me, it was Luke looking at me as if he had found the one. Eyes sparkling and a bright smile crossing his face.

I hadn't realized that I had sat next to him, only making sure I was seated beside Leah on my other side, but he sure did notice my slip up, and he looked like he had won the lottery.

"I'm serious Lily, it's amazing." Taking one of my hands and placing it into his folded hands.

"Um, thanks, Luke. I'm glad you enjoy it." I smiled an awkward smile as I responded.

"So... Lil, what do you say about opening presents? Sound like a plan, right?" Leah piped up. I could kiss her at that moment.

"Definitely. Sam, why don't you come to help me get all of them?" Leah said, standing off the log and quickly headed to get the gifts, trying to be quick to save me from having to talk to Luke.

To try to remove myself from Luke's grasp altogether, I said with my eyes pleading to let me help, "Oh, I can help Leah, I don't mind."

"Of course, Lil, there are so many we would definitely need help." I sighed a breath of relief.

Instantly crushing my plans, Luke excitedly said "I can help"

I quickly responded with, "NO," I shouted intensely "I mean no, it's fine besides you haven't finished your cake."

Downhearted, he nodded and feeling bad for the guy I couldn't stop myself before saying, "I'll open yours first, Luke."

That statement to him must have been equivalent to telling him I would be his bride. I instantly wanted to kick myself, sometimes I hated how much of a people pleaser I was, but I couldn't stand the thought of someone being mad or upset with me. Perhaps it was due to the bullying I endured during my high school career or maybe the abandonment of my mother. I wanted to make everybody happy, even if it was reckless or hurt me. Leah would say that I needed to put myself first and not worry about other people. But I just couldn't.

Shaking my head now was not the time to think of my mental state and personality. Besides, if I did that, I would eventually go down a dark road. I quickly hurried to where Leah and Sam were and started to pick up the remaining gifts.

"Man, he's got it bad, Lil, you should really set him straight," Leah commented.

"I've tried, but he just doesn't seem to get the hint," I whispered, trying not to be overheard.

"Well try harder Lil, he gives me the creeps."

I just sighed and nodded my head. "You're right but I don't know how."

Sam stood off to the side and said: "you just need to be completely honest, it's probably the only way that he'll back off."

"I guess you're right Sam, I'll tell him next time I see him, I don't want to ruin the party by breaking the poor guy's heart." I sighed.

We headed back balancing the gifts, and Leah announced she'll pass out the gifts and for the guest to announce who got me what when I unwrapped it. Luke immediately snatched his gift out of the pile and handed it to me. I grimaced but gave him a small smile as I pulled out the gift, he started bouncing his leg, acting like a dog about to get a bone. It didn't take me long to get through the tissue paper, but what lay inside shocked me and creeped me out at the same time. It was a bottle of my favorite perfume, the brand that I had never once mentioned to anyone beside Leah, and I doubt that she would tell him.

"… it's my perfume, how did you know?" I asked, genuinely confused.

He smiled brightly and cheerily exclaimed, "Oh, I'm glad I got the right brand, I wasn't sure I smelled multiple different bottles, but I found it, and it smelled exactly like you. Do you like it?"

He obviously didn't register the rest of the party-goers, but even they looked shocked, and some of the girls looked as creeped out as I felt. But he just sat there with a wide grin.

Swallowing down my feelings, all I could say was, "Yes, umm, I'm almost out of the bottle I have, so this is great, thanks, Luke."

"There's something else in there." Luke announced.

I gave a wry smile and felt further into the gift bag. When my hands finally snagged a hard piece of wood, I pulled it out. It was a photo frame, inside was a picture of me sitting my surf board out in the waves. It wasn't a bad photo all together, the lighting was just right and the angle too. But a shiver ran down my spine, I had never had a picture taken of me on my board. So it only meant that he had taking it, when he had taken it I don't know but he had.

But small chickens scratch lettere in the bottom left corner wrote out a message, it read to my favorite girl.

Leah had been looking over my shoulder at the gift and to had an uneasy expression at the photo. She also knew that no one from our family or her had taken the picture. Also the words had created a slight eerily feeling down the both of our spines.

I didn't know how to respond to this gift so I simply said, "thank you."

Next thing I knew, there was another present in my face, and Leah loudly declaring, "Well then, let's move on to the next gift."

I sighed in relief. We quickly went through the presents. I definitely could tell which gifts were given by the various group of friends.

I mainly received art supplies from my high school friends and the party crashers, which I was quite happy with. I went through sketch pads so quickly that I often got to the last page not even two weeks from when I bought them, so having multiple given to me is a welcome gift. I also received some nice acrylics paints and paintbrushes, which I would definitely be breaking in tomorrow when I got home.

From my friends from nursing school, I received useful gifts such as scrubs and pocket-size hand lotions, hoping that it would stave off cracked and dry hands that are normal due to the constant hand washing.

Finally, we were on the last three gifts. The one from Leah and the two Sam had brought. Leah handed me a small package wrapped in the white paper.

"This one is mine, I know you'll love it," Leah exclaimed. I noticed that everyone had moved closer to see what my best friend had gotten me.

I smiled and nodded my head while saying, "I'm sure I will." Taking more time with this gift, I slowly unwrapped it to reveal another box which I gently opened. Laying inside was a simple but elegant watch, it had a black band with a rose gold rim. "Oh Leah, it beautiful."

I noticed all my nursing friends nodded in agreement. A sturdy watch was a necessity in our profession, and knowing that it had come from my sister made it even more special. I knew I would treasure it just as much as my stethoscope that dad had gotten me. I quickly placed the watch back in its box and laid it down carefully on to the sand. I stood and wrapped Leah in a hug.

"I'll treasure it forever, thank you so much," I whispered in her ear, and I felt her cheeks raise into what I knew was a beaming smile.

"Love you," she whispered back and gave me a kiss on the cheek.

Laughing at her silliness, I sat back down, and Leah sat beside me again. Sam approached me and handed me his present and then turned to Leah and gave her the other. He had told me that his gift was a joint one while we waited for everyone to come to get cake. So I wasn't surprised by his action, but I was extremely interested in what may lay in the box.

Rubbing the back of his neck, he said in a deep and oddly soothing voice, "Sorry it's not wrapped. I'm not good at that sort of thing."

Leah and I looked at each other and immediately started counting. In tandem, we both counted "3 … 2 … 1" as quickly as possible we both opened the gifts.

What was inside shocked us both; they were identical bracelets. They were simple silver bracelets, but it was the charm in the middle that was the focal point. In the middle of the bracelet was an infinity symbol.

We both knew that Sam had realized at some point during his time of dating Leah that we were a package deal and wanted to give us something that would represent our relationship. We had never bought each other or made each other friendship bracelets, seeing as the ones normally advertised were childish. But this one was perfect.

Leah was the first to respond, standing up and wrapping her arms around him, giving a kiss.

Standing up, I said, "Thank you so much, Sam, I think this was the best gift."

As they broke apart. I took the opportunity to give him a hug. The second my arms wrapped around the man, I felt a shock and warmth spread through me. The scent of him, driftwood and amber, made me feel like I was home and made me feel dizzy. For the first time I wanted to stay in the embrace of another person.

I look up at Sam, wondering if he felt it only to meet his dark brown eyes, which expressed that he had, in fact, had the same reaction. We both stepped away, but still, the feeling resonated in my body.

"Is everything okay?" Leah asked, noticing that our hug had become slightly longer than a typically friendly hug.

"Oh yeah, I'm just a little tired, but it's fine," I replied quickly.

Leah nodded as she understood. She knew that I had been up extremely early today and was probably getting tired and not aware of how many seconds had passed.

"Well, everybody, I think it's time for s' mores before everyone leaves," I said as I moved swiftly away from Sam. I stumbled a bit as his scent continued to overwhelm me. Still, I quickly righted myself and continued towards the table.

I helped people collect all the need materials but tried to not touch Sam as he came up, I didn't know whether I had liked the feeling or was more scared of it. I grabbed my own marshmallows and headed towards the fire.

Sam apparently noticed I hadn't grabbed any gram crackers or chocolate and commented as he fell into step beside me. "Are you only going to eat the marshmallows."

"I kind of only like the marshmallows when it comes to s' mores. Besides, the gram cracker always breaks, and the chocolate isn't melted enough. Everyone knows that the best part is the marshmallow." I reply, still afraid to meet his eyes.

He snorted, "I'm guessing you're also the person who likes their marshmallow burnt."

I looked up at him in mock defiance and replied: "So what if I am, it the only way you know that the marshmallow is perfectly gooey."

He just replied with another laugh but holding my gaze with a burning look that I couldn't understand. But it was a moment that died quickly and he soon went off to find Leah.

I stood there, still captivated by the look in his eyes.

Soon enough, people were approaching me to say their goodbyes. I just smiled and thanked them for coming, and for certain people, I reluctantly gave them hugs.

When Luke came up, he immediately wrapped me a hug. I was stunned that he was so forward, and when he realized I wasn't returning the hug, he backed away with a small smile.

"I'll see you later, Lily, you know there's a great movie playing in Port Angeles. We should go see it at some point." Luke said.

I was slightly still creeped out at his gift and didn't respond when suddenly Leah chimed in.

"Oh yeah, I heard about that, so Lil and I were going to have a girls day next weekend and see it."

I turned to her with relief clear on my face, "That's right, Luke, sorry."

Luke looked physically upset and slightly angry at Leah's interruption but quickly changed his expressions to a smile and said, "Maybe next time Lily. Anyway happy birthday. I'll see you soon." with that he began rushing away.

"Thank god he's gone. I say we burn the picture, and perfume it's hella creepy." She said picking up some of the gifts. Seeing as I didn't want to discuss it,

She started on another topic, "we should begin cleaning up. Sam said he'd take the trash and tables. Thankfully most of your gifts came in bags, so they shouldn't be too hard to get back to the house. I'm thinking we can put them in the cooler. It's empty of everything, including the ice so we can just wheel the gifts back in that. Besides, I don't know about you but I'm exhausted and really don't feel like carrying all that shit by hand or taking trips back and forth to get all of it. Oh do you want to save the drinking for next weekend ya know for our girls day?" She laughed while getting out the last part.

"Sounds like a plan, I'm ready to crash," I said

It didn't take long for us to clean up everything and extinguishing the fire, which had already died down considerably.

When it was all said and done, we helped carry the table and trash to his truck. Sam taking most of the weight but still letting us help. Standing in front of his old beat up blue truck, Leah embraced Sam, giving him a lasting kiss. Just standing there, I felt awkward, so I just chose to stare at the crashing waves giving the couple a moment alone. But soon enough, they broke apart.

Sam turning towards me he stated, "So I guess this is goodbye, for now, Lily, it was super good to meet you. Hopefully, we can all hang out together again sometime soon."

I nodded and felt surprised when he wrapped me in another hug. I was sure he had probably wanted to avoid another reaction, but again I felt myself melting into his embrace. There was the same feeling as before, but this time it had lessened to more of a tingle. But it was still there. We watched as he climbed into his truck and pulled away from the beach.

Suddenly the entire day crashed on me, the energy that had been running through me left and I was finding myself having a hard time keeping my eyes awake. Leah noticing my growing exhaustion grabbed my hand and said: "Let get you in bed, birthday girl."

"That sounds so good right now," I replied. So we collected my gifts, putting as many in the cooler as possible and started heading down the path to Leah's house. I don't know what happened to Luke's gift, I didn't see it when we were putting the gifts away but I didn't care. I didn't want that shit in my house. It gave of a terrible vibe.

"So what do you think of Sam," Leah asked as we walked.

"He seems like a really great guy. I mean, our bracelets were a perfect gift, really I can't wait to get to know him better." I replied

"I'm glad. Your opinion means a lot to me, and to know that you guys seemed to get along is great." I could hear the smile in her voice.

The rest of the walk was mainly silent, we were holding hands while Leah pulled the cooler and I held some of the presents that wouldn't fit in my opposite hand. We were just us enjoying the time together in the peace of the night.

We arrived at the house quicker than we expected. Quietly we sneaked into the house, trying to make as little noise as possible to not wake the other members of the house. We arrived at Leah's bedroom, and as soon as we put down the gifts and took off our shoes, we collapsed onto her full bed. Tightly squeezing into one another to fit, her arms wrapping around me holding me tightly.

The second I laid my head on the pillow, I entered into a dream where the only things that gazed back at me were dark brown eyes, the feeling of warm arms, and the scent of driftwood and amber .