For the next few days Ray and Neela did everything together. Neela was with him during his rehab sessions and was very proud at how Ray was progressing. They watched old horror movies together and occasionally caught and episode or two of The World Poker Tournament in between make out sessions on the couch. It was New Year's Eve and Ray had just arrived back for from his last session for the year. On this day he decided to let Neela get some extra sleep. When Ray walked into the house he called neela's name but she did not answer all he saw was a note telling him to go to the back yard. To his surprise Neela had a beautiful picnic set-up in the back yard.

"Wow what is all this?"

"Well, I thought since it was a nice day out we could have lunch here in the back yard."

"That is really cool Neela."

"Thanks, and don't worry I didn't cook. I made a few sandwiches and some lemonade."

"I wasn't worried about your cooking."

"You are such a liar. You hate my cooking Ray."

"I don't hate your cooking; you just need a little more practice. Put it this way once you know how to make my favorite dishes it would be great. Don't worry I'll teach you."

Ray looked at her and noticed her expression changing.

"Hey neel, what's up? Why the long face?"

"Ray, I have to go back to Chicago the day after tomorrow and I still don't know how we are going to have a relationship. You haven't mentioned what you are going to do."

"Neela, do you trust me?"

"What?"

"Do you trust me?"

"Of course I do."

"So believe me when I tell you it will be okay."

"Ray, how can you say that?"

"Trust me Neela, it will. Now let's enjoy your beautiful picnic and tonight I have a surprise of my own for New Year's Eve."

"And what is that kind sir?"

Ray grabbed Neela around the waist and pulled her into a deep kiss.

"Believe it will be a New Year's you will never forget."

They sat on the benches in the backyard and enjoyed a nice lunch. They sent hours just talking and reminiscing about old times. It was getting late so Ray and Neela returned to their rooms to get ready. About an hour later Ray emerged from his room in a very nice black suit, almost similar to the one he wore to Abby and Luka's wedding.

"Neela, are you ready we are going to be late."

"I'm coming."

Ray had brought Neela a beautiful red strapless dress. The dress fitted in all the right places it was floor length and shimmered from the moon light coming through the window. Her black hair shined as she let it down away from her face. When Ray looked at her he almost lost his balance, she was breathe taking.

"Neela you look absolutely beautiful." Neela smiled at his compliment. Her smile made his heart melt.

"Thank you Ray you look very handsome also."

"I look okay but you, you are breathe taking."

Neela found herself blushing at the way Ray was gushing over her.

"Ray, thank you for this dress it is absolutely beautiful."
"I was worried you would get upset that I picked out your clothes for you, I just wanted tonight to be a surprise."

"It's okay I love it."

"Your welcome I'll do anything to make you happy Neela."

"You spoil me so much Ray sometimes I feel I don't deserve it."

"Neela, please stop tonight is a special night. A new year and a new start. By the way, Hi my name is Ray Barnett and I would like to know if you would go out with me tonight young lady?"

"Well, I have to think about it."

"Neela!"

"Just kidding, I would love to go out with you, always and forever."