Author note:

Finally posting a new chapter. Work has been taking a lot of my time. I want to thank you so much if you are still following my story. I really appreciate it.

CH 122-The Future Looks Bright

The incessant chime of her alarm pulled Emma reluctantly from her dreams. She rolled over, loosening the cocoon of blankets until she could reach her phone on the nightstand. She silenced the annoying sound and rolled onto her back. Just a few moments ago, in her dreams, she and Clay were snuggled on a sunny beach, and here she was waking up to another cold, winter morning. At least it was Friday. She didn't need to teach today, and her first class didn't start until 10:00. That made getting up a little more bearable. She knew that Clay was up and gone long ago, but that didn't stop her from running a hand over the sheets where he had slept and sighing. She would see him at dinner.

Emma threw back the blankets and met the crisp air head on. She grabbed some underwear from the dresser and padded into the bathroom. She went through her morning routine, shower, drying her hair, dressing, and then headed to the kitchen for breakfast. Koda met her in the living room, tail wagging excitedly. She immediately noticed the tag hanging from the red bow tied around his neck.

"Whatcha got there, boy?"

She grasped the note and saw the message was in Clay's handwriting.

"Happy 21st Birthday," she read aloud.

She smiled at the sweet gesture and gave Koda some good ear scratches and a kiss on the head.

"Thanks, buddy."

She, of course, knew that today was her birthday. It just momentarily slipped her mind as she readied for her day. She and Clay talked about it for a couple of weeks now. As the day neared, Clay mentioned that he had made plans for them, but wouldn't spill any details. They both hoped that Bravo wouldn't get called in and they could have their evening together. She ate a quick breakfast and gathered her books, laptop, and guitar. Once that was all together, she sat to put on her boots. Next, she zipped on her puffy, down coat and then pulled on her knit, wool hat and gloves. The cold snap that brought them the ice storm hadn't yet abated. Emma loved the snow when she looked out at it from a window of their cozy apartment. But she was really over having to put on what seemed like twenty more pounds of clothing just to go out. Finally ready, she patted Koda's head stepped out into the cold and locked the door behind her.

Bravo finished with their team workout and hit the showers. With nothing interesting on the horizon, Jason was cutting them loose. Clay hurried to get dressed, hoping he could surprise Emma. With an eye on the clock, he showered quickly, pulled on his clothes. Jason stopped him before he could get out the door.

"Hey, how's Em today?"

"Uh, I'm not really sure. She has later classes today, so I didn't wake her."

"Probably a good idea," Jason chuckled, knowing his daughter loved her sleep. "Well, when you do see her, tell her 'Happy Birthday.'"

"Will do."

Ray then stepped out from his cage and entered the conversation.

"Hey, I just talked to Naima. Everything's a go for tomorrow. You got a plan for getting Emma over to our place?"

"I think so. I'm gonna tell her that you needed some help with a small repair on your car. And, since Naima is supposed to be at work, it would really be helpful if she could keep an eye on the kids."

"That sounds reasonable. I'll have to remember to park Naima's car down the street, so it stays out of sight."

"That reminds me. Hey, guys," Clay raised his voice to get everyone's attention. "Who's still planning on coming to Em's party tomorrow?"

Everyone nodded in the affirmative.

"We'll be there. Ain't gonna pass up a chance to celebrate with the Princess."

"Great! Remember to park on the next block."

"Hey now Blondie, if we can infiltrate a terrorist strong-hold undetected, I reckon we can handle Emma's surprise party."

All the guys laughed, including Clay. Then, checking his watch, he rushed out the door.

Clay stopped by the florist, and they had an arrangement ready for him. Then found his copy of Emma's class schedule to find out the building where she was having class. She always made sure that he, her dad, and Naima had a copy of her latest schedule so she could be located in the event of an emergency. After finding that, he pulled up a campus map. He located visitor parking and the quickest route to where he could meet her.

He got there quickly and navigated his way to the small green space in front of the building Emma would exit. Consulting his watch, he realized he still had some time before Emma would be out of class. Although the branches were bare, a sturdy oak towering over the open space seemed like the ideal place to wait. He leaned against the solid trunk, crossing one ankle over the other. He held the bouquet gently in his arms, careful not to crush it. As he waited, a few snowflakes began to drift down. He watched them settle on the ground, the trees, and the old buildings. It was beautiful.

Soon the relative quiet was broken as the doors in front of him opened and students began to file out. Individuals, absorbed in their own agenda hurried to their next class. Others exited in groups, talking, and laughing amiably. His eyes scanned over each and every one waiting for Emma. Finally, a small cluster emerged, chatting about some topic of interest. In the middle of the group was Emma. Clay watched her, eyes alight, smile glowing as she added her thoughts to the conversation. He stood up and started forward. As he approached, several others noticed his presence. Many glances were thrown is way, some of the females even stopped and stared openly. As he got closer, one of the girls Emma was talking to reached out to Emma and nodded toward Clay.

"Wow! Check him out."

Emma blushed as she looked up and saw Clay standing in the center of the sidewalk holding a dozen roses.

"Clay," she breathed, flushing slightly.

She broke away from her friends and stepped up in front of him.

"What are you doing here?"

"I wanted to surprise you for your birthday."

"Well…mission accomplished, Sailor."

"Happy Birthday, Em."

He gazed down at her, snowflakes dotting the hair not covered by her hat that fell over her shoulders in soft waves. He held out the flowers to her like an offering. She tried to take them, but her hands were full.

"Here, hand those to me."

He took the straps of her purse and bookbag and lifted them off her shoulder and onto his own. He also reached for the handle of her guitar case, easing it from her grasp. With her hands free she lifted the flowers up to better appreciate their beauty and to inhale their fragrance.

"Thank you. These are beautiful."

She went up on tip to kiss his cheek. It was then that she noticed the rosy shade of his cheeks and nose.

"How long have you been out here?"

"Uh…not long. About thirty minutes or so."

"It's too cold for that. You could have waited at home."

She raised a glove-covered hand and placed it against the side of his face.

"Em, I'm fine. I've been in much worse weather. And I have on my nice, warm sweater." He gestured down with his chin, and she noted the ribbed neckline of the garment she made him for Christmas. "Besides, it's your twenty-first. You deserve something special. I love you, Baby."

She knew he was right, but she was still moved that he did this just to surprise her with flowers on her birthday.

"I love you too."

She brought his lips down for a kiss, not caring that they were still standing in the middle of the sidewalk on campus. Everyone and everything else melted away. That was until a loud, whistling catcall brought them back to reality. Blushing, Emma lowered her face.

"C'mon, let's go. You can warm me up when we get home."

Emma nodded, biting her lip. He threw her a wink as he reached for her hand.

Afternoon passed into evening as they lay in bed, after thoroughly warming each other. Clay checked his watch.

"We should probably get ready to go. Don't want to miss our reservation."

"I don't even know what to wear since I don't know where we're going."

Emma trailed her fingers down his side and then attacked the sensitive spot just below his ribs. He flinched and started to laugh.

"You're not getting anything out of me. I won't break," he laughed.

Moving her hand south, she tried a different tack, stroking his erection back to life.

"Uh," he swallowed loudly. "I, uh…damn. No, no," he grasped her hand. "If we start this again, we'll never make it."

"Make it where?"

"We have a dining reservation. And that's all I'm saying."

Emma pulled her hand back and crossed her arms with a huff, mock pouting.

"Hey, the sooner we leave, the sooner you'll know."

"Fine. What should I wear?"

"Well…I'm wearing my jeans and black shirt. Does that help?"

It did, some. Clearly it was semi-dressy. As he hopped up and pulled on his underwear, she thought through her wardrobe. She finally settled on her black, leather leggings with her over-size, cream sweater, and black boots. That decided, she got up and went to get dressed.

They left Va. Beach and headed Northwest. After a short drive they arrived at an unobtrusive building with a small awning and a lighted logo of a mermaid and a sign that read, "Mermaid Winery." Clay got out and opened the door for her and helped her down from the truck. They walked under the awning and in through the double glass doors. Immediately, a hostess approached them.

"May I help you?"

"Yes, Spenser. We have a reservation."

She fiddled a bit on her tablet and then looked back with a smile.

"Ah yes, Spenser. We have your table ready. If you'll follow me, please."

She led them to their table.

"Your server will be with you shortly."

As she took off her coat and sat down, Emma looked around. The dining room was sleek and modern with some rustic touches. The polished stone floor was dotted with slim, wooden tables and chairs. There was a large bar along the opposite their table and shelves filled with bottles lined almost every wall. There were even some wine barrels scattered throughout the room. The light fixture above them was a massive installment that stretched the length of the room. It was a chandelier that boasted empty wine bottles in place of crystals. Just as she finished her perusal of their location, their server arrived.

"Good evening. Thank you for dining with us tonight. My name is Javier, and I will be your server and sommelier. I see that you have chosen our tasting experience tonight. Is that correct?"

"Yes, that's right."

Emma looked at Clay with a huge smile. She had always wanted to do something like this, but couldn't, until now.

"Perfect. Usually, I suggest a series of small plate to accompany the tasting. But you may choose a more traditional meal if you prefer."

"Em, which sounds good to you?"

She was fine with a small plate menu but knew that Clay would most likely want something more filling. So, she opted for a full meal. Realizing that if she was going to have multiple glasses of wine, more food might not be a bad idea for her either.

"I think we'd like to see the dinner menu, please."

"Of course. And I'm sorry to ask, but Miss…could I possibly see your ID?"

Emma wasn't upset. She knew she still looked young and even with Clay's presence they needed to be sure. She held out her driver's license to him. As he noticed the date, he returned it to her with a smile.

"I apologize, but it's a necessity. Happy birthday."

"Thank you."

He supplied them with menus and stepped away to get them a bread service and glasses of water.

Emma reached for Clay's hand.

"Honey, this is amazing."

"I'm happy you like it so far. I remembered you said that you would like to do a wine tasting someday and this seemed like the perfect opportunity. And I wanted to be the one to buy you your first legal drink."

"It is perfect. Thank you."

She knew that they had talked about experiences they wanted and adventures they would like to have together. But she couldn't have mentioned a wine tasting more than once in passing. She was touched that he remembered and chose this to commemorate her birthday.

Their server returned and they ordered their food. They also opted to allow him to select the wines to accompany each course. Soon they were digging into their appetizer and listening to their server tell them about the wine he chose.

From the first sip of wine to the last bite of their dessert, the experience was sublime. The food was delicious, and Javier chose their wines perfectly. Clay even decided to buy a couple bottles of a Chardonnay that they particularly liked. He paid the bill as Emma put on her coat and gathered her purse.

"This was wonderful, Clay. I couldn't have asked for a better gift. Thank you."

"You're welcome, Babe. Happy Birthday."

"Thank you. I love you so much."

"I love you too, Em."

He dropped a sweet kiss on her lips, and they left to head for home.

By the time they got back to the apartment, Emma was feeling a little drowsy. All the rich food coupled with several glasses of wine were taking their toll. She leaned on Clay as they rode the elevator up to their floor and walked to their door. He grabbed Koda's leash and left her with a kiss and a promise to be back quickly.

She readied herself for bed and cuddled under the covers. The softness and warmth were calling to her. She fought the fatigue, determined to wait for Clay.

Koda finished his business quickly. Although he loved to be outside, he didn't much like the cold. They climbed the stairs back to the apartment. Even though they already made love this afternoon, Clay was looking forward to a little more birthday celebration with Emma. He quickly hung up his coat and put Koda in his kennel. Rubbing his hands together to warm them he hurried to the bedroom. He stopped short at the scene in front of him. The lights were all on and there was Emma, sitting up against the headboard, sound asleep. He smiled fondly, heart full as he gazed at her and shook his head. He went into the bathroom and shut the door behind himself. He was ready for bed in no time and silently exited the bathroom and crept to the bed. Emma sat in the same position. He turned off the lights and then lifted Emma, laying her down and then slipped under the covers. Mumbling something indistinct, she immediately rolled to snuggle against him, head on his chest and legs woven together with his. He pressed a kiss to the top of her head.

"Happy Birthday, Baby."

Then he closed his eyes to join her in slumber.

They both slept in the next day. Still Clay rose before Emma. He took Koda on a run, got back and started breakfast for the two of them. Emma finally woke and heard him stirring around in the kitchen.

"Good morning. Anything I can do to help?"

"Morning Babe. Uh…you could pour the coffee."

She went to the cupboard and lifted down a couple mugs. As she walked over to the coffee maker, she cleared her throat and spoke softly.

"I'm sorry about last night."

Clay almost didn't hear her.

"Sorry about what?"

"Falling asleep."

He noticed that she wasn't looking at him. He finished filling their plates and sat them down. Then he stepped behind her and wrapped her in his arms.

"You don' t have anything to be sorry for. You were tired and you went to sleep."

He lowered his head and placed his lips against her shoulder.

"But…I didn't…I wanted to…"

It was then that he released her, turning her around and pushing the tangles of hair back from her face.

"Em, look at me honey."

She looked up at him from underneath her lashes.

"It's really okay. Really. Besides, if you're going to keep up with RJ and Jameelah today, you're going to need all the rest you can get."

She laughed and finally tilted her face up to look at him. He smiled back and kissed the tip of her nose.

"Let's eat so we can get ready and get over to Ray's later."

They arrived at Ray's just before lunch. They pulled into the driveway, next to Ray's car.

"I figured Ray would have pulled his car into the garage. It's too cold for you two to be working outside."

"We can pull it in once we see what's wrong."

They rang the bell and Ray answered with RJ in his arms.

"Hey you two. Thanks for coming by brother. I can really use your help."

RJ reached for Emma, and she gladly accepted him into her arms.

"It's a big help too, Em, for you to look after the kids."

"No problem. I've been missing them. And I need to see this dollhouse that Jameelah got for Christmas."

The continued into the house and were not a foot into the living room before the air exploded with cries of "Surprise" and "Happy Birthday."

She jumped and stepped back. Clay's hands on her waist held her steady.

"Are you okay?"

"Yea…I…I just didn't expect…"

"That's the whole point of a surprise party Babe," he whispered into her ear before kissing her cheek.

Naima came and took RJ who was also a little shaken up by the shouts of surprise.

"Happy Birthday, Emma."

"Thanks Naima. I can't believe you did this."

"This is a big birthday for you. And we all want to celebrate with you."

She gave Emma a quick hug and kiss and went to soothe RJ. That gave time for Emma to take off her coat and hang it up. When she got back to the living room her dad was standing there, waiting to give her his wishes.

"Happy birthday, Em."

"Thanks Daddy."

He hugged her close and she went up on tiptoe to kiss his cheek. He released her and she made her way around the room, getting hugs and well wishes from everyone. All of Bravo was there, Vic even brought his girlfriend.

She finally sat down and Jameelah immediately crawled into her lap.

"Happy Birthday, Aunt Emmie."

"Thanks sweetie," she returned, squeezing the little girl tight.

"Mama said it's a important day for you."

"It is."

"How old are you?"

"I'm twenty-one."

"Wow!"

"Is that old?"

The little girl nodded. Emma laughed, thinking that it would have seemed old to her at that age too. Clay joined them, sitting right next to Emma. He wrapped his arm around her shoulders and gave Jameelah a peck on the cheek.

"What's so funny over here?"

"Oh, Jameelah was just telling me that twenty-one is really old."

Clay leaned over and shared a conspiratorial conversation with the little girl.

"She is pretty old, huh?"

Jameelah giggled.

"Do you think we need to get her a cane or something?"

"Hey, you two," Emma cut in, feigning outrage.

"But Uncle Clay," she managed through her laughter. "You're older than her."

Emma busted out laughing at the comment. Then she held up a hand for Jameelah to high five.

"That's my girl!"

Clay laughed along and reached to tickle Jameelah. After a few seconds he stopped and swung her up onto his back as he stood up.

"C'mon little J. Let's get you something to eat. Besides, I need to make sure you two don't think up anything else to make fun of me."

He grinned at Emma, and she stuck out her tongue at him. The two started for the kitchen and she smiled, watching their continued teasing.

Jason sat down beside her, handing her a beer. Emma arched and eyebrow at him as she accepted the bottle.

"Happy Birthday, Em."

"Thanks Daddy. And thanks for the party."

"You're welcome. To be honest, this was all Clay and Naima. He had the idea, and she ran with it."

"Well, anyway…I really appreciate everyone being here. It's been too long since we all got together."

"Yea, it has."

At that moment, they were interrupted by a squeal from Jameelah. They looked over and Clay was putting her up on his shoulders and chasing after Sonny. Jason looked over at Emma and watched her eyes following Clay.

"He's pretty good with Jameelah…with all kids, really."

"They do have a lot of fun together."

"A day like today kinda makes you think."

"Huh? Oh, about…"

"About the future and what it might hold for you," he jerked his head toward Clay.

"Yea," she answered with a small smile and a dreamy look in her eye.

She could see where Jason's thoughts were going.

"Dad, that's still years away."

"It'll be here before you know it. I mean, look you're twenty-one. You only have one more year of school. It seems like it was just last week that your mom put you in my arms for the first time."

He took a quick swig of beer and cleared his throat to cover up his feelings. Emma tucked her arm around his and leaned her head on his shoulder.

"Daddy…"

"Really, Em. I know I don't say it enough, but I'm really proud of you. You're doing so well in school, and you've made really smart choices."

"And, what about choosing Clay?"

"Well…the jury's still out on that," he teased.

She swatted his arm playfully and he chuckled and kissed the top of her head.

"Seriously, Honey, I hope your future is full of just good things. I love you."

"I love you too, Daddy."

She watched Clay in the kitchen helping Jameelah to fill her plate. She knew her dad said time would pass too quickly, but she couldn't wait for the future, for the rest of her life with Clay.