"It makes me sick," Sophie hissed to Whitney, who was busy slicing vegetables for dinner as she crossed her arms, a deep frown etched on her face glaring out the window at the scene unfolding in the backyard.

Whitney looked up, raising an eyebrow. "What does, dear?" she asked a hint of amusement in her voice. "How is she that pretty and have a body like that?" Sophia continued her tone one of despair. "There's no way I'll ever be seen in a bikini beside her."

Whitney chuckled, shaking her head as she resumed her task while glancing back out the window. Brett was holding Oliver, who was giggling uncontrollably as Santana tickled his tiny feet. Brett's face was lit up with joy, a wide grin stretching across his face.

Santana leaned back, her head resting on the edge of the hot tub. "It's weird how cold my face feels while my body is so hot from the water" she mused, enjoying the contrasting sensations. Brett smirked, leaning in close to her ear. "I know your body is hot, especially in that white bikini" he whispered teasingly, poking his tongue out playfully. Santana blushed, her cheeks matching the warmth of the water.

Meanwhile, James was completely immersed in his own world. Equipped with a full snorkel and mask, he was dipping his head under the water, resurfacing with excitement to share his underwater discoveries. "Look, Dad! I saw a fish!" he exclaimed, even though they were clearly in a hot tub.

Brett gently placed Oliver on the edge of the hot tub, holding his tiny hands. Oliver's eyes sparkled with mischief as he prepared to jump. "Ready, buddy?" Brett asked his grip firm but encouraging.

"Yeah!" Oliver squealed, bouncing slightly in anticipation. With a joyful shriek, he leaped into the water, holding Brett's hands for support. Water splashed everywhere, hitting both Santana and Brett squarely in the face. Santana laughed, wiping her eyes and shaking her head.

Oliver grinned, his eyes wide with delight. "Again, Again!" Brett chuckled, lifting Oliver back onto the edge. "Alright, one more time."

James resurfaced, pulling off his snorkel. "Can I jump too, Dad?" he asked, his eyes shining with excitement. Brett nodded, setting Oliver back into the water and turning to James. "Sure. Just be careful, okay?"

James clambered out of the hot tub, standing on the edge beside Oliver. Brett moved to hold both of their hands, ready for the next splash. "Okay, on the count of three," Brett instructed. "One, two, three!"

Both boys leaped into the water, their laughter echoing through the air as they created another wave of splashes. Brett's face was a picture of pure happiness as he guided them safely back into the tub however, his bliss was quickly interrupted when he caught sight of Santana's expression.

Santana's hair was drenched, and she was giving Brett an evil glare. She had specifically told him she'd go into the hot tub but was adamant about not getting her hair wet tonight. Brett swallowed hard, recognizing the look in her eyes.

With an awkward smile, Brett reached out and gently wiped the wet strands of hair from Santana's face. "Sorry," he whispered, hoping to soften her annoyance. Santana's glare softened slightly, but her eyes still held a hint of frustration. Brett took a deep breath, pulling her close and planting a soft kiss on her cheek. "I'm sorry" he murmured again, wrapping his arm around her.

James, oblivious to the tension, shouted out, "I saw another fish!" before dunking his head under the water again. Brett chuckled, his eyes meeting Santana's once more. This time, her look was one of amusement rather than anger.

The tranquility of the moment was disrupted when Whitney stepped out onto the deck, her presence immediately catching their attention. "Dinner will be ready in about 45 minutes," Whitney announced, her voice carrying a warmth that matched the evening light.

Brett nodded appreciatively. "Thanks, Mom. Could you do me a favor and run the bath for the boys?" Whitney smiled and reached out for Oliver. "Of course, sweetie." She lifted Oliver from Brett's arms, cradling the sleepy toddler against her shoulder. "James, it's bath time," she called gently.

James groaned but didn't protest, slowly standing up as Brett helped him out of the tub. "Alright, let's get you dried off," Brett said, wrapping a towel around James and guiding him towards the house.

As Whitney entered the home with Oliver, Santana turned to Brett, her expression shifting from playful to stern. "You're very close to not getting your birthday blowjob tomorrow," she said, her tone carrying a teasing edge but with a hint of genuine irritation. She pushed past Brett into the house, leaving him momentarily stunned.

Brett blinked, his mind racing. He quickly followed Santana toward the bedroom. "Really?" he called after her, trying to keep his voice light. "You're going to deprive me of my birthday blowjob?"

Santana shrugged, her back to him as she walked into the bathroom. Just as Brett reached the doorway, there was a knock, and Whitney's voice came through the door. "Brett, the bath is ready for the boys." He sighed, the moment of tension with Santana dissipating as he turned to his mother. "Thanks, Mom," he said, stepping aside to let her pass.

He made his way to the boys' bathroom, finding James already splashing in the tub, and Oliver sitting on a stool, waiting his turn. "Alright, let's get you two cleaned up," Brett said, rolling up his sleeves. He lifted Oliver into the tub next to his brother, and the boys immediately resumed their playful splashing.

After ensuring the boys were scrubbed clean and dried off, he dressed them in cozy pajamas and ushered them towards the living room. The scent of dinner wafted through the house, and Brett's stomach growled in anticipation. He found Santana in the kitchen, helping Whitney set the table.

"Need any help?" Brett asked, stepping up beside Santana and softly stroking her back. She glanced at him, her eyes softening. "I think we've got it covered," she said, her earlier irritation now a distant memory.

Whitney looked over at them, a warm smile on her face. "Why don't you two sit down? Dinner's just about ready."

Brett nodded and guided Santana to a chair. "Thanks, Mom," he said, taking a seat next to her. The boys were already at the table, their excitement palpable as they eyed the spread of roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, an array of vegetables, and freshly baked bread. It was a feast that promised to cap off an eventful day perfectly on the slopes.

"It's been a long day," Stephen said with a laugh, glancing at Oliver, who had fallen asleep. The sight of the little boy with his head resting on the table, hand still clutching a piece of bread, brought a chuckle from everyone.

Whitney nodded, her eyes twinkling. "And James looks tired too," she said, casting a glance at the older boy who was trying valiantly to stay awake. "I'm not tired," James protested quietly, his eyelids drooping despite his best efforts to appear energetic. Whitney laughed softly. "Of course you're not" she said.

Brett smiled at his son. "James did great learning to ski today. He's a natural."

"Absolutely," Sophia chimed in. "Next year, hopefully, Oliver can start too." Brett nodded in agreement, feeling a surge of pride. "Yeah, it's exciting to think about."

As the meal wound down, Brett stood up, reaching over to gently clean Oliver's face and hands. "I'll put him to bed," he said, scooping the toddler into his arms. Oliver stirred slightly but settled against Brett's shoulder, his little body relaxing into the familiar comfort of his father's embrace.

Santana looked up from her seat. "I'll help clear the table," she offered, glancing at Whitney. Whitney smiled warmly at Santana. "Thank you, Santana. That's very kind of you."

When Brett returned to the dining room, James was slumped over in his chair, his battle to stay awake finally lost. Brett gently lifted him, carrying him upstairs and tucking him into bed. James mumbled something incoherent but smiled sleepily as Brett kissed his forehead.

Downstairs, the kitchen was now clean, the table cleared, and the dishwasher humming softly. Santana and Whitney were sharing a quiet moment, talking softly. Brett felt a wave of affection for both women. He joined them, slipping an arm around Santana's waist and kissing her temple.

"Thanks for helping, Santana," Whitney said, her voice warm. Santana smiled, leaning into Brett. "Of course. I'm happy to help." Brett glanced at the clock, noting the late hour. "Do you want to head to bed?" he asked Santana gently. She nodded softly. "Yes, that sounds good."

Whitney and Stephen wished them goodnight as they headed towards the stairs. The house was quiet, a peaceful stillness settling in as everyone prepared for bed.

Once they reached their room, Brett closed the door behind them. Santana moved to the bed, pulling back the covers and slipping in. Brett joined her, feeling the day's fatigue settle into his bones. "I'm still pissed about the hot tub," Santana said, her voice muffled slightly by the pillow.

Brett laughed softly, pulling her closer until her head was resting on his chest. "I'm sorry," he told her again, his voice sincere. He lifted her chin gently, so their eyes met, and gave her a tender kiss. "I promise I'll make it up to you." Santana sighed, her annoyance melting away as she looked into his eyes. "You'd better" she murmured, a small smile tugging at her lips. Brett smiled back, feeling a wave of affection for her. "I will," he promised, stroking her hair gently.

Brett and Santana were jolted awake by the sudden impact of James jumping onto the bed, followed closely by Oliver's excited babbling. Brett groaned softly, blinking his eyes open just as James launched himself onto his chest, shouting with glee. "Happy birthday, Dad!" James exclaimed, his voice full of enthusiasm. Oliver, standing at the edge of the bed, echoed his brother's excitement with a squeal of "Dada!" Brett looked over at Santana, who was wiping her eyes and trying to shake off the remnants of sleep.

From the doorway, they heard Whitney's gentle voice, prompting James with a smile. "Tell your dad about the breakfast, sweetie." James grinned, bouncing up and down on the mattress. "We made you breakfast, Dad!" he shouted, his face glowing with pride. "And we decorated the dining room!"

Whitney entered the room, her arms reaching out to scoop up Oliver. "Good morning" she said warmly, her eyes twinkling with happiness. "We've got everything ready for you downstairs."

Brett stretched his arms above his head, a wide yawn escaping his lips as he tried to shake off the grogginess. "Thanks, Mom" he said, a sleepy smile spreading across his face. He looked at Santana, who was now sitting up and running a hand through her hair. "Looks like we're in for a special morning." Santana smiled back, her eyes still heavy with sleep but filled with affection. "Happy birthday, Brett" she murmured, leaning over to give him a soft kiss. "Come on, let's go see what they've done," Brett said, his excitement building.

The dining room was a sight to behold. Streamers hung from the ceiling, and a large banner reading "Happy Birthday" was strung across one wall and two giant gold balloons 3 and 0. The table was set with a variety of dishes: pancakes, bacon, scrambled eggs, and fresh fruit, all arranged beautifully. A small pile of wrapped presents sat at one end of the table.

Brett's heart swelled with gratitude and love as he took in the scene. "Wow," he said, turning to his family. "This is amazing. Thank you all so much."

James wiggled out of Sophia's arms and ran to the table, pointing excitedly at the pancakes shaped like stars and hearts. "Look, Dad! We made special pancakes for you!" Oliver clapped his hands, clearly pleased with the festive atmosphere. Whitney set him down in his high chair and began to dish out the food.

Brett took a seat at the head of the table, pulling Santana down beside him. "This is the best birthday ever," he said, his voice full of emotion. He reached for Santana's hand, giving it a gentle squeeze.

They all settled in, enjoying the delicious breakfast and the warm, cheerful company. Brett couldn't stop smiling as he watched James and Oliver eat, their faces smeared with syrup and happiness.

After breakfast, it was time for presents. James and Oliver were eager to help Brett open his gifts, their little hands tearing at the wrapping paper with glee. Brett laughed, overwhelmed by the thoughtfulness of each gift. There were handmade cards and pictures from the boys, a new set of tools from his parents, and from Santana, a beautifully framed photograph of the two of them with the boys, taken during the vacation. "This is perfect," Brett said, his voice thick with emotion as he looked at the photograph. "Thank you, Santana."

The morning was one of those perfect lazy winter mornings, the kind that begged for long stretches of lounging around, wrapped in blankets and sipping hot cocoa by the fireplace playing board games.

By late morning, the decision was made to venture outside for some tubing. Brett, with a wide grin, watched as Santana emerged from their room bundled head to toe in snow gear. She was almost unrecognizable beneath layers of puffy jackets, snow pants, a woolen hat, and a scarf wrapped around her neck.

"Wow," Brett said, chuckling as he took in the sight of her. "You look adorable." Santana rolled her eyes, her cheeks tinged with the slightest hint of a blush. "I feel like a marshmallow," she retorted, though her eyes sparkled with amusement.

Stephen, already dressed and eager to get going, clapped his hands together. "Alright, everyone! Let's get moving!" he called out, ushering the family towards the door.

They piled into the car, a mix of excitement and anticipation buzzing through them. Brett took the wheel, and they headed towards the tubing slopes. When they arrived at the tubing park, they were greeted by the sight of towering hills blanketed in pristine snow, dotted with brightly colored tubes zipping down the slopes. Waiting for them were some of Brett's closest friends from back home: Sam, Jacob, and Hunter. They waved enthusiastically as Brett pulled into the parking lot.

"Brett!" Sam called out, his voice carrying across the crisp air. "Great to see you guys!" Brett felt a surge of happiness seeing his friends here, sharing in the experience. He introduced them to Santana, who smiled warmly despite the chill.

"Ready to have some fun?" Jacob asked, his eyes twinkling with excitement. He handed a tube to James, who looked at it with wide eyes.

"Definitely," Brett replied, as they made their way to the top of the tubing hill, a mixture of laughter and playful banter filling the air. The boys were eager, their excitement bubbling over as they climbed as Brett held onto Oliver's hand, ensuring he didn't slip on the icy path.

Once at the top, they all took a moment to take in the breathtaking view. The slopes stretched out before them, offering a thrilling descent. Brett positioned himself next to Santana, giving her a reassuring smile. "Ready?" She nodded, her eyes alight with both nerves and anticipation. "Ready."

They positioned themselves on the tubes, each pair getting into place. With a push from the park attendant, they were off, sliding down the hill with exhilarating speed. The cold wind whipped past their faces, mingling with their laughter. Brett felt a rush of joy as he heard Oliver's delighted squeals from his lap.

The descent was fast and thrilling, ending in a flurry of snow at the bottom of the hill. They regrouped, faces flushed with excitement, ready to go again. They spent the next few hours tubing down the slopes, racing each other and forming trains with their tubes to see how many people they could link together.

"I can't believe how much fun that was!" Santana exclaimed, her cheeks pink from the cold and excitement. She looked at Brett, her eyes shining. "Thank you for this. It's been amazing." Brett squeezed her hand, feeling a surge of affection. "I'm glad you're having a good time," he said softly.

Their conversation was interrupted by Hunter, who plopped down next to them with a grin. "So, Santana, how did Brett convince you to come out here and freeze with us?" Santana laughed, a sound that made Brett's heart swell. "He didn't have to convince me too much," she admitted. They spent the next hour chatting and catching up, stories flowed as easily as the laughter, painting pictures of past adventures and shared memories. Brett felt a deep sense of contentment, seeing how well Santana meshed with his old friends, her laughter mingling with theirs seamlessly.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the snowy landscape, they decided it was time to head back to the lodge. Everyone gathered in the cozy living room warming up in front of the fire as Whitney carried the cake over, a proud smile on her face. "Happy birthday, Brett!" she exclaimed as everyone joined in, singing the familiar tune. Brett leaned in, blowing out the candles with a single breath. He closed his eyes for a moment, making a silent wish.

After the cake was cut and the first bites were enjoyed, Whitney approached Brett with a warm smile. "I've got the kids tonight, so you and Santana can go out to dinner," she announced, her eyes twinkling. Brett glanced at Santana, who looked pleasantly surprised. "Really? That sounds wonderful," Santana said, her smile lighting up her face. "Go on, enjoy yourselves," Whitney insisted. "You've earned it."

Brett and Santana quickly freshened up, exchanging their snow gear for more presentable attire. As they made their way to the car, Brett couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement. It had been a while since they had a night out, just the two of them.

They drove to a nearby steak restaurant that overlooked a frozen lake. The scene was picturesque, the moonlight casting a shimmering glow over the icy surface. The restaurant itself was warm and inviting, with large windows offering a breathtaking view of the winter landscape.

Seated by the window, they ordered their meals and settled into a comfortable conversation. The ambiance was perfect, a blend of elegant tranquility and the murmur of other diners. Brett reached across the table, taking Santana's hand in his. "Thank you for coming out to California," he said softly, his eyes reflecting the gratitude he felt. Santana smiled, her eyes sparkling in the candlelight. She sipped her wine, savoring the moment. "Of course, Brett. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else."

As their meals arrived, they reluctantly let go of each other's hands to enjoy the food. The steak was perfectly cooked, the sides flavorful and fresh. They ate slowly, savoring each bite and continuing their conversation.

"I remember the first time I saw you," Brett said between bites, his eyes twinkling with the memory. They had locked eyes across a crowded bar, the noise and commotion around them fading into the background. Brett smiled at Santana, who looked intrigued, her curiosity piqued.

"You were even prettier than the photo I saw" he added, taking a sip of his wine. Santana's eyebrows raised in surprise. "You saw a photo of me?" she asked, leaning forward slightly.

Brett nodded, a sheepish grin spreading across his face. "Puck showed me a photo and when I saw you, I couldn't believe my eyes. I thought you were so out of my league." Santana laughed softly, her cheeks flushing a delicate pink. "You thought I was out of your league?"

"I did," Brett confessed, his smile turning more reflective. "I still do, sometimes." He chuckled, a self-deprecating laugh that made Santana's heart melt a little. "But I couldn't resist trying my luck. And now here we are." He picked up the last piece of his steak and popped it into his mouth, savoring the moment as much as the meal.

Santana shook her head with a fond smile. "Well, I'm glad you did try your luck. Otherwise, we wouldn't be here tonight, celebrating your birthday together."

Brett reached across the table and took her hand in his again, his grip warm and reassuring. "Me too," he said softly. "You've changed my life in ways I never imagined. The past nine months of knowing you have pulled me out of a pretty dark place." He paused, his thumb gently caressing the back of her hand. "This time last year, I couldn't have ever imagined being here today."

He lifted her hand to his lips, kissing it tenderly. Santana's expression softened, her gaze locked with his. "I'm so glad we found each other" she whispered. "You've brought so much joy into my life too."

The waiter broke the moment placing a brownie with a single candle on the table. "Compliments of the house," he said with a smile, placing the dessert between them. Brett and Santana exchanged a glance, their hearts full.

"Make a wish," Santana urged, her eyes dancing with excitement. Brett closed his eyes for a moment as he blew out the candle, opening his eyes to Santana's radiant smile "Happy birthday, Brett. Here's to many more."

Wrapping up their meal, Brett and Santana took their time heading back to the lodge, relishing the crisp night air and the beautiful, moonlit landscape. When they finally arrived at the lodge, the house was quiet. The soft hum of the heater and the occasional creak of the old wooden structure were the only sounds that accompanied them as they quietly made their way through the hallways. It was clear that everyone had turned in for the night.

As Brett walked in front of Santana, leading her toward their room, he felt her hand on his shoulder. She gently spun him around, her eyes twinkling with mischief. Closing and locking the door behind them, Santana leaned in, her voice soft and playful. "It's time for your birthday present" she whispered, her lips curling into a smile as she reached up, pulling him into a deep, tender kiss, her hands tangling in his hair. Brett wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close, savoring the feeling of her warmth against him.

As their kiss deepened, the heat between Santana and Brett grew more intense. Her breath was hot against his lips as she whispered, "Happy birthday." Her fingers danced teasingly along his belt buckle, her actions urging him closer to the edge of the bed causing Brett's heart to race as Santana's hands worked their way down his pants, her touch sending shivers down his spine. He helped her push them down, his boxers following suit, and then sat on the edge of the bed, pulling Santana into a deep kiss.

Their bodies pressed together, their kisses growing more passionate as they explored each other's mouths. Brett couldn't get enough of her as she pulled away slightly, looking into Brett's eyes with a mischievous glint as she felt the strength of his arousal pulsating against her hand. "You're so hard" she taunted, a smirk playing on her lips as she moved closer, running her tongue along his length with expert skill.

As Santana's tongue danced along his length, Brett gasped, struggling to contain the overwhelming pleasure coursing through his body. He leaned back on the bed, surrendering to her touch as she expertly played with him, teasing and pleasuring him with every flick and swirl of her tongue before she took him fully into her mouth. Brett can only gasp and moan in awe, his hand clutching Santana's long hair as he watches her work him. "Holy shit" his grip on Santana's hair tightens, his moans growing louder and more desperate as he gazes into her eyes, unable to tear himself away from the intense connection they share. "Fuck" he moans unable to form any coherent thoughts as he surrendered completely to her touch.

As his release approached, Brett's body tensed and his breathing became ragged. He could feel himself getting closer and closer to the edge, unable to hold back any longer. "I'm gonna...I'm gonna-" he gasped, unable to finish his sentence as Santana took him in fully, her lips and tongue working him relentlessly.

With a final flick of her tongue, she pushed him over the edge, Brett's whole body shuddered as he finally let go, releasing himself completely into Santana's mouth. As she pulled away with a slow and deliberate motion, she whispered in his ear "Happy birthday".

Brett collapsed back onto the bed, panting heavily and trying to catch his breath. He opened his eyes and saw her lying next to him, a satisfied smile on her face as she snuggled up against him. "That was... wow" he managed to say, still trying to recover from the intense pleasure he had just experienced.

Santana chuckled, her hand gently stroking his face. "I'm glad you liked it," she said with a grin. "I loved it" Brett replied, turning to look at her and returning the smile as he leaned in, capturing her lips in a deep kiss. He could taste himself on her tongue, which only intensified his desire for her. Their tongues tangled together as he slowly trailed his hand down her body until he reached the waistband of her panties. "No," Santana stopped him, pulling back and standing up. "Tonight was all about you," she said as she made her way to the bathroom.