New Years Eve (complete)
Title: New Years Eve
Author: thelightheat
Pairing: Will/Emma, Emma/Carl
Rating: G
Summary: Emma through many New Year's Eve nights
Disclaimer: Don't own it!
Author's Note: Cute ltitle ficlet that celebrates the New Year!
December 31, 1997
10:00pm
Emma Pillsbury sat in her bedroom packing for college. She was going back early to get ahead on classes and because she had nothing better to do with her time. She had no friends and the last thing she wanted to do was spend days with her mother picking out spring patterns and try to get her father to understand her OCD.
Her parents were passed out on the couch with the TV blaring some old movie. She passed by them without notice as she went to get a glass of water. When she looked out to the house behind them she it was full of light and people. They were all dancing, eating like crazy and being loud. The window was open to get the smell of smoke out of the house after her father tried to light a real log in the fireplace that ended up being a disaster hours before. The colder temperature didn’t seem to bother anyone as she went to close it slightly hearing the sounds of music and laughter through the darkened air. As she looked out one more time she thought what it would be like to spend it with someone else.
11:59pm
She sat on her bed gathering her books, looking back at the clock a few times. They were all in mint condition as she refused to deface them in any way, even for her own reference. As she packed them neatly in a container hoping they would come in handy for her two week class on Child Development she heard cheers through the silence, it startling her. As she looked back she noticed the clock all change to midnight. She whispered Happy New Year to herself and went to check off another thing done.
December 31, 2000
11:07pm
She was at a party with her friends. They dragged her out and she ended up in the corner, tapping her feet on the floor, near the bathroom, not wanting to touch anything. She was offered a hat and noisemaker but declined both because they didn’t look sanitary. Her friends were all mingling with other people, mostly boys and when one looked her away she smiled slightly and pretended that she was talking to the guy next to her, which in reality had his back to her.
There was dancing, heavy music and a few make-out sessions going around her and she became more and more uncomfortable. Even though she was an adult and could drink, it didn’t mean she was going to forget everything her parents taught her about being safe and smart. In fact she had a presentation to get ready for at the beginning of the new semester and really had to nail it, especially if anyone would take her seriously for a job.
So she stood in the corner, sipping her Coke and trying to look like she was having a good time when really all she wanted to do was be back in her apartment, watching a movie and ringing in the new year with possibility, not expectation. There was no way she was going to be kissing some stranger.
11:59pm
A crowd had gathered in the middle of the room as the music leader turned off the music so he could do a countdown as the crowd joined. Emma found herself on the outskirts, next to her friend Judy who was probably drunk with her arm around some guy neither of them knew. Judy jumped next to Emma, scaring her a bit and even knocking her Coke all around in her cup. Scared to have it go all over her outfit, Emma stepped further away and ended up counting down softly under her breath as she looked out the window, thinking of what she hoped in the next year. When the countdown hit zero Emma felt hugs from all over. Nervous and repulsed she stepped away from the crowd and ran to the bathroom, trying to avoid a panic attack. When she emerged a few minutes later more people were making out and when a guy asked for a kiss on the cheek she ran out of the apartment, catching a cab back to her apartment where she then spent the next thirty minutes in the shower and avoiding her friend’s phone calls asking where she was.
December 31, 2003
9:13pm
She was wearing a new dress and coat as she stepped into his apartment. A few people had arrived as he took her coat and cookies. She couldn’t help but blush when he commented on how lovely she looked as she followed him into the living room where she said hello to a few people she knew and he introduced her to those she didn’t.
As she settled into conversation with a co-worker she couldn’t help but notice how clean and simple his place was. The smell of gingerbread took over her nose as she reached for a cracker and she smiled because right next to the plate of cheese and crackers was her snowman bowl filled with chips that she gave him as a Secret Santa gift.
There wasn’t a good time to talk to him but she enjoyed herself as she had a glass of wine and watched the pre New Year festivities on TV. When he finally became available they chatted in a small corner of the room about their jobs and their hopes of the New Year. She felt her heart flutter as he smiled and she knew the crush wasn’t going away.
When his wife arrived later she kept her distance but stole a glance here and there.
11:59pm
The small group of people came together with wine glasses in hand. He addressed the group, thanking them for coming and telling them that everyone’s New Year was going to be amazing. They all agreed as Emma tried to get close to him, edging out a few people as she counted out loud as they watched the ball getting lower and lower. As the clock ticked to midnight, everyone clinked their glasses to those around them and when she finally got face to face with him after what seemed like minutes, he smiled and whispered Happy New Year, while gently leaning in to give her a quick hug. When he released her she smiled back and then turned away when she noticed his wife glaring.
She left a few minutes later and as she made her way down the steps to the outside she heard his voice. Turning she noticed he had her scarf. Thanking him profusely she wrapped it around her neck, tucking it into her coat. She saw him eye her and then chuckle as they joked about the cold weather. They said Happy New Year once more and when he left her sight, she stayed on the stairs for a little while longer thinking about the future.
December 31, 2005
8:32pm
Peter was late but she didn’t mind as she fixed her makeup one more time and then her dress. It was a older version of a newer one she saw online but she just couldn’t see the sense in buying the updated one even though she wanted it.
The doorbell rang and she quickly rushed to it, taking a deep breath before opening it. He was dressed in khaki pants and a blue polo and while she wished he looked a bit more refined, she gave him a quick hug and let him in.
They talked as she got her coat on and when they reached the restaurant, she had a feeling maybe he wanted to take their relationship to the next level. They had been dating for some time and she spent many nights at his place. But she wasn’t sure if she was ready.
The waiter took their orders and as they sat waiting for their food they laughed over funny things that happened in the year while reflecting on her mother’s illness and his brother’s financial troubles while he gently stroked the top of her hand that rested on the table. When she felt other people’s eyes on them, she pulled away feeling like they were seeing too much and when she saw his face change she knew he wasn’t happy.
11:59pm
She sat on the couch of his apartment in her pajamas, eating popcorn and laughing about something Cary Grant did. He didn’t seem that interested as he looked over his work, a light over his shoulder. When she reached for him he pushed her away and when she saw the clock strike midnight she kissed his cheek lightly, whispering Happy New Year.
And then suddenly he grabbed her hips and pushed her down on the couch, kissing her hard. Scared and confused she pushed him off. Angry he lashed out and she ended up on the other side of his door a few minutes later telling her that it was over.
She spent the next few minutes in tears as she tried to gather up the strength to put on her heels under her pajama pants and then her coat over her Ohio State sweatshirt. As she picked up her bag and walked to her car she saw a couple in the stairway making out. Carefully she excused herself as she walked around them, hearing the snorts of the young girl making fun of her outfit.
December 31, 2006
10:13pm
She ended up at his place after he told her that he needed a friend. His wife had walked out on him and left him with nothing more than a goodbye. She changed into jeans and a blouse as she swiped the last beers from her fridge from her Christmas Eve party she thought of everything she couldn’t say.
He sat on one side of the couch and she sat on the other as he talked. The TV was low, the lights even lower as she watched him pour his heart out, asking her for advice and guidance. When she didn’t really know what to say that would make him feel ok, he said it didn’t matter, because she was doing everything by being here.
She had a beer with him too and realized she didn’t like beer but having someone to share it with, did make it go down easier. He chuckled when he watched her try to enjoy it and ribbed her for her quirks, but never did he make fun of her. She smiled and went over to his DVD collection pulling out a old musical and popping it in. They sat quietly far apart on the couch and in the middle he asked her about the Glee club. She didn’t know much about it but told him he would be great if he led them.
11:59pm
Right in the middle of the musical number he stopped the movie and turned his mp3 player. Confused she looked at the clock and watched as he frantically tried to find the song on it. Once the strains of the song hit her ears through the speakers she smiled as he started to sing.
As the clock struck the New Year, he extended his hand and she took it as he sang along with the song, trying to help her along but she struggled with the lyrics laughing at how badly she was doing. He grabbed her hand and spun her a few times as he continued to sing, laughing and belting it out as she followed him around the living room liking the way his body moved with hers as she clumsily continued to sing, butchering the lyrics.
As the song ended they collapsed on the couch and laughed. When he turned to look at her she felt butterflies all over and when she finally found her voice she told him Happy New Year and he replied by moving a bit closer, brushing her cheek lightly with his lips.
When she left his place after the movie, he lingered in the doorway and told her safe travels home before wishing her a happy new year. She felt his hand next to hers as she stood in the doorway wanting him to grasp it just for a second so she could say the start of her new year started off amazing.
But instead he backed up and said goodnight, closing the door slowly. As she walked down the hallway to the stairs she looked back wishing he would say everything he shouldn’t.
December 31, 2008
7:46pm
Some things she just didn’t want to do and this was one of them. She hated uptight formal parties that meant insincere conversation and fake pleasantries. So it came as no surprise Emma was picked up in a limo to Carl’s dentist friend’s party. As she stumbled into the limo, trying not to get her too expensive dress ripped and wrinkled, he grabbed a hold of her hips and helped into the seat before he introduced her to a few of his fellow colleagues as they rode the bumpy roads to the club.
He looked at her with such love and adoration that she felt guilty for feeling less than happy she was here. As they entered the done up club she felt his hand on the small of her back and it comforted her to know that he was keeping her safe.
The chatter came frequently and fast as she tried to keep up with it. Emma was introduced to so many people she could hardly keep track and by the time they sat down to their table she was at a complete loss as to who was next to her. The old lady seemed to put her at ease as she whispered that through the years she never found the names get any easier. A few people started dancing after dinner and when Carl got her up and swept her onto the floor she felt comfortable in his arms, but finding the atmosphere a little too harsh, his comments a little too sharp for her liking and when he released her, she found herself running to the bathroom because she was still feeling uneasy and worse, still thinking thoughts about someone she shouldn’t.
When she emerged and went to sit back down, Carl was getting into a harmless wrestling match which Emma didn’t take too well. She sat at the table by herself looking at her phone and finding old texts that she saved from him.
11:59pm
The crowd gathered in the middle of the floor, balloons ready to erupt, confetti expected to explode around them as the countdown began. Carl wrapped his arms around her middle, pulling her back into him as she smiled to those around her, all of them yelling out the numbers. When the countdown hit one, the balloons were released, the silver cafetti rained around them and Carl kissed her gently and then more passionate as she turned into him, wrapping her arms around his neck, as he yelled Happy New Year above the cries of joy. As she rested her head on his shoulder for a moment, looking out at the empty tables, she whispered Happy New Year closing her eyes thinking of what he might be doing at this very moment.
As they left the club much later her feet hurt, her dress was sliding off her and all she wanted to do was shower and get to bed. He dropped her off at her place, kissing her hard once more before he released her. As she got out of the limo, closing the door she lingered at the sidewalk for a moment, taking a few deep breaths. As she turned to go into her apartment her phone buzzed. Curious she pulled it out of her purse to see a text from him. The butterflies came back and when we she went to bed, she tossed and turned because she was still in love with him.
December 31, 2010
4:30pm
The apartment was spotless as she pulled out the table clothes to cover all her important surfaces. Her new dining room table, the coffee table and even the counter got the holiday treatment as she spent too long making sure the cloths sat squarely on the top. As the door opened and Carl entered, holding bags of groceries she told him where to go, making sure he didn’t knock over the punch bowl and cups. He put away the groceries, getting going on spreading out the mozzarella sticks, potato skins and mini quiches on the baking sheets much to the dismay of Emma who didn’t like any of those things.
As they prepped for their party of friends and neighbors they took a moment to profess their love for their new marriage and the hopes and dreams of the New Year. While Emma knew he wanted children, she wasn’t ready and told him so many times.
Once she was dressed in a red dress that might turn a few heads and her hair done up she entered the living room twirling and ready for her first official dinner party.
Carl meanwhile was nowhere to be found and when she saw he had to leave due to an emergency at work she sighed and spent the silence fluffing pillows, lighting candles and standing in the middle of the room by herself looking out the window, seeing the reflection of a woman she didn’t really know like she used to.
11:59pm
Carl had been entertaining the crowd with his silly stories and even crazier upbringing. She ended up doing most of the hosting from taking coats, fixing the food and making sure no one was spilling on her furniture and new entertainment center.
With a dishtowel in hand she felt his grab on her arm pulling her towards the window where confused, she stumbled, as he pushed her up against the glass, hurting her back for a bit. He seemed upset at the way people were looking at her, glaring, leering and when she put up her hands in defeat he let her go, smiled and kissed her cheek as everyone around them starting counting down to zero. When the crowd buzzed, bringing in the New Year, she felt Carl’s arms slip around her waist, pulling her into a hug as he whispered how much he loved her into her ear. Emma closed her eyes, trying to fight the tears of fear and hurt as she tried to erase the thoughts of regret.
December 31, 2011
6:32pm
Her new couch was comfy as she settled in with her popcorn and new pajama’s. She had a stack of DVD’s she got for Christmas lined up as she popped the first one in, ready to start her movie marathon with herself and a bottle of wine.
As she pulled the blanket around her a knock at the door jolted her. Confused she got up and went to it, unlocking and pulling it open slowly. He stood there, slightly wet, Mets on, wearing jeans, sneakers and a leather coat, holding a bottle of champagne and more movies. She smiled, let him in and watched him take off his sneakers and coat, finding his feet barefoot.
He smiled at her and she felt much happier now that she had company. He took two glasses out of her cabinet, remembering where they were hidden and she watched him label off all the DVD’s he had brought, apologizing for crashing but telling her that she couldn’t spend New Year’s alone.
When she blushed feeling that everything was going to be ok after her annulment eight months prior she led him to the living room where they sat on the couch, a little close together but not enough to be touching in any way. When he playfully stole the blanket to wrap himself up in it, she tried to take it from him but finding him pulling for it and she found herself laid out on the couch with him on top of her. She stared at him for a moment, searching his eyes for something more but he pulled away quickly, releasing the blanket so she could have it. As they both turned to the TV she looked at his profile to see him intently focused on the movie in front of him.
11:59pm
She felt a hand on her shoulder as she drifted from blackess to light. As she opened her eyes she noticed he was looking at her, smiling, telling her that it was a minute to midnight. Smiling and trying to get herself together so she could enjoy the moment, she sat up, the blanket draped over her legs with a pillow at her head. She didn’t remember it from before and he explained that she had fell asleep a few hours ago and he went to get one from her room. Before she could thank him, he got up and gave her a glass of champagne already filled. Their hands touched and she felt that spark still there.
As they turned on the TV to watch the ball drop she crumpled her legs up so he had more space and she watched as he moved closer to her. As they counted down quietly and then the clock hit, she watched him turn to her, whisper Happy New Year and then bring his glass over so they could clink them. As the gentle sound of new beginnings hit her ears she saw him put his glass down on the table. Curious he seemed nervous as he adjusted himself on the sofa again, this time leaning forward as she felt his warm hands cup her face. She blushed and felt him lift her head slightly so they were locking eyes. Without any words he gently pulled her forward, kissing her gently on the lips. It wasn’t any more, any less, it was just enough to make her believe that they had a chance.
When he released her he smiled, kissed her forehead and told her he had to go because he had already done too much. When she grabbed his arm to stop him from leaving because the moment had to go on, he simply told her that he just needed to figure things out.
The door closed a few minutes later and she refused to look at it.
December 31, 2012
2:32pm
Emma wanted frozen yogurt in the worst way, even in the midst of winter. So she stopped into a shop that was her favorite in the summer and got some, her end of the year holiday shopping all in her hands in bags. The girl gave her some cherry and she went off on her way, feeling the lightness of the cream on her tongue. As she passed a few shops she noticed the necklace that she admired for weeks, gone. Disappointed she walked back to her car, put her bags in the trunk and made her way home, happy to spend the evening with him, doing nothing but watching movies and maybe the occasional dance to his favorite song.
As she entered their apartment she smelled pasta and spices. Smiling he stood over the stove stirring the sauce and humming to Wham. She took her shoes off and put her bags in the closet, reminding herself not to tell him of her spree till their next paycheck came. He turned when she said hello as she kissed his cheek in delight seeing him cook.
They sat down to their favorite meal talking about school and their vacation when he excused himself to go to their bedroom. When he returned he had something behind her back. Happy and excited he handed it to her after she jumped up and down in her seat. Wrapped in pretty silver paper with a bow she took a moment to admire the wrapping. When he said he didn’t do it, she ripped into it, making him laugh. The box was a bright red and when she pulled off the top to reveal more tissue, she took a deep breath and pulled the tissue apart. There in the middle was the necklace she had admired for months, hoping against hope that maybe it would be hers someday.
Brought to tears he was kneeling across from her telling her that he knew how much she loved it and how it was a promise for their future.
11:59pm
She felt his warm fingers stroking her hair as he read the book of Robert Frost poems she had given to him for Christmas. As he spoke, she closed her eyes, her head resting on his chest, feeling his steady breathing under her, as she their feet touched under the blanket. When they heard the cheers around them, he stopped reading, whispered Happy New Year, kissed the top of her head and continued on.
December 31, 2013
9:34pm
It was quiet in the house as Emma tried to get herself off the bed. It was tricky these days being pregnant but she was able to get herself up and walk slowly to the kitchen where she found him sitting on the living room floor trying to screw the pack and play together. She smiled and went over to see if she could help but his concentration and a few swears under his breath told her maybe it was best if she simply stand back and pretend nothing was going on.
When she reached the kitchen to get some soy milk for herself, she noticed it was spotless, all the pots and pans cleaned and the counters wiped down to a shine. The fridge too was stocked with new food. She poured herself some soy milk and then went to see how he was doing, letting him be and making a note to thank him later. As she watched him in his t-shirt and sweatpants she blushed and found herself more turned on then ever at him being such a good husband and expectant father.
As she watched him slide the final piece in and turn the final screw tight, he jumped up in excitement, oblivious to her watching. When she let out a large laugh, he turned and smiled wide at her and then gently he pulled on her hand, pulling her towards it, showing her everything it could do. As she watched him excitedly talk about the music and the mat that adjusted based on the age of the baby.
As he held her hand tight, after he explained everything, out of breath and overwhelmed he brought her to their couch where they both sat quietly with his hand resting on her stomach, telling her how excited he was. She agreed and she found herself drifting off as he talked to the little one, singing and humming at times which warmed her heart. She felt his fingers pull back some of her hair off her face, it getting longer from the hormones.
She felt a warm blanket and then a pillow underneath her as he gently moved her to lay down on the couch, feeling sleepy again. As she drifted into blackness she felt his warm fingers again on her skin as he wrapped the blanket securely around her. Before she completely dreamed away, she heard his voice tell her how much he loved both of them.
11:59pm
Emma sat up with a tub of ice cream. She was freshly out of the shower, feeling a bit refreshed from her nap. A teddy bear was next to her as she fished out another scoop, never realizing how much she loved real ice cream. The TV was screaming some really bad music video from the past year but she was too tired to reach for the remote that was on his side of the bed. Instead she found herself reciting the lyrics since she knew the song and when she looked over to see the clock strike midnight she expected him to come in.
When he didn’t she shrugged, reached for the remote and turned the TV off, liking the silence much better. She put the ice cream down on the nightstand under a coaster and tried to turn to her side but finding it difficult. A few minutes later she heard his footsteps and when she turned he was carrying a CD. He came around to her side, squatting to show her. It was a tracklist of all their favorite songs and as he placed it on the CD player he explained the meaning of each.
As he played the first track she felt tears in her eyes as she remembered it was the song they danced to at their wedding. Smiling he gently helped her up, gathering her in his arms, gently gliding her around their bedroom, smiling and talking about their new family.
December 31, 2014
1:26pm
Mary was down for her nap as Emma tried to find something to wear to their friend’s party that evening. It was going to be the first real outing as a couple since Mary’s birth and while Emma didn’t really want to be away from her daughter, she knew she needed it, even if it was just for a short time.
He entered a few minutes later, with flour all over him. She laughed as he hopped in the shower, asking if he wanted to join him. She playfully slapped him on the shoulder with one of her uglier dresses. As she stood in the mirror looking at the ones she thought might work, she threw them on the bed, knowing that she couldn’t fit into them. Even though she had worked hard, there was still five pounds that had to go. As she looked deep in the back of her closet she found something that she bought right after she found out she was pregnant. It was a dark green and even though it was a little plain, it had enough sparkle to it and she found she could pair it with a skinny belt and silver shoes that she just bought. Happy with her choice she heard him singing through the door. Laughing she put away her dresses, laid out the one she was going to wear and then opened the bathroom door, deciding she did want to have some extra fun.
As she hopped in the shower, surprising him, she knew she made a good choice and could still set his heart on fire.
11:59pm
All the couples were together with Emma wearing a hat and he brushing the confetti that prematurely fallen in her hair. She smiled up at him as he flicked the bits of silver off her shoulder and making sure she was ok. She nodded and held him close as they swayed to the music leaving the crowd in a distant haze as they locked eyes on one another. She counted down to ten softly so only he could hear her. He kept smiling and smiling at her, as he gently pulled her close when the clock hit the New Year. He whispered into her hair as the other couples celebrated around them how amazing she was, how special she was and what a perfect life they had made. She felt the tears as she held onto him tighter, burying her head into his chest, feeling the warmth and security of his love that had never been lost in all the years that she had known him.
The End
/Thanks for reading!/
Author: thelightheat
Pairing: Will/Emma, Emma/Carl
Rating: G
Summary: Emma through many New Year's Eve nights
Disclaimer: Don't own it!
Author's Note: Cute ltitle ficlet that celebrates the New Year!
December 31, 1997
10:00pm
Emma Pillsbury sat in her bedroom packing for college. She was going back early to get ahead on classes and because she had nothing better to do with her time. She had no friends and the last thing she wanted to do was spend days with her mother picking out spring patterns and try to get her father to understand her OCD.
Her parents were passed out on the couch with the TV blaring some old movie. She passed by them without notice as she went to get a glass of water. When she looked out to the house behind them she it was full of light and people. They were all dancing, eating like crazy and being loud. The window was open to get the smell of smoke out of the house after her father tried to light a real log in the fireplace that ended up being a disaster hours before. The colder temperature didn’t seem to bother anyone as she went to close it slightly hearing the sounds of music and laughter through the darkened air. As she looked out one more time she thought what it would be like to spend it with someone else.
11:59pm
She sat on her bed gathering her books, looking back at the clock a few times. They were all in mint condition as she refused to deface them in any way, even for her own reference. As she packed them neatly in a container hoping they would come in handy for her two week class on Child Development she heard cheers through the silence, it startling her. As she looked back she noticed the clock all change to midnight. She whispered Happy New Year to herself and went to check off another thing done.
December 31, 2000
11:07pm
She was at a party with her friends. They dragged her out and she ended up in the corner, tapping her feet on the floor, near the bathroom, not wanting to touch anything. She was offered a hat and noisemaker but declined both because they didn’t look sanitary. Her friends were all mingling with other people, mostly boys and when one looked her away she smiled slightly and pretended that she was talking to the guy next to her, which in reality had his back to her.
There was dancing, heavy music and a few make-out sessions going around her and she became more and more uncomfortable. Even though she was an adult and could drink, it didn’t mean she was going to forget everything her parents taught her about being safe and smart. In fact she had a presentation to get ready for at the beginning of the new semester and really had to nail it, especially if anyone would take her seriously for a job.
So she stood in the corner, sipping her Coke and trying to look like she was having a good time when really all she wanted to do was be back in her apartment, watching a movie and ringing in the new year with possibility, not expectation. There was no way she was going to be kissing some stranger.
11:59pm
A crowd had gathered in the middle of the room as the music leader turned off the music so he could do a countdown as the crowd joined. Emma found herself on the outskirts, next to her friend Judy who was probably drunk with her arm around some guy neither of them knew. Judy jumped next to Emma, scaring her a bit and even knocking her Coke all around in her cup. Scared to have it go all over her outfit, Emma stepped further away and ended up counting down softly under her breath as she looked out the window, thinking of what she hoped in the next year. When the countdown hit zero Emma felt hugs from all over. Nervous and repulsed she stepped away from the crowd and ran to the bathroom, trying to avoid a panic attack. When she emerged a few minutes later more people were making out and when a guy asked for a kiss on the cheek she ran out of the apartment, catching a cab back to her apartment where she then spent the next thirty minutes in the shower and avoiding her friend’s phone calls asking where she was.
December 31, 2003
9:13pm
She was wearing a new dress and coat as she stepped into his apartment. A few people had arrived as he took her coat and cookies. She couldn’t help but blush when he commented on how lovely she looked as she followed him into the living room where she said hello to a few people she knew and he introduced her to those she didn’t.
As she settled into conversation with a co-worker she couldn’t help but notice how clean and simple his place was. The smell of gingerbread took over her nose as she reached for a cracker and she smiled because right next to the plate of cheese and crackers was her snowman bowl filled with chips that she gave him as a Secret Santa gift.
There wasn’t a good time to talk to him but she enjoyed herself as she had a glass of wine and watched the pre New Year festivities on TV. When he finally became available they chatted in a small corner of the room about their jobs and their hopes of the New Year. She felt her heart flutter as he smiled and she knew the crush wasn’t going away.
When his wife arrived later she kept her distance but stole a glance here and there.
11:59pm
The small group of people came together with wine glasses in hand. He addressed the group, thanking them for coming and telling them that everyone’s New Year was going to be amazing. They all agreed as Emma tried to get close to him, edging out a few people as she counted out loud as they watched the ball getting lower and lower. As the clock ticked to midnight, everyone clinked their glasses to those around them and when she finally got face to face with him after what seemed like minutes, he smiled and whispered Happy New Year, while gently leaning in to give her a quick hug. When he released her she smiled back and then turned away when she noticed his wife glaring.
She left a few minutes later and as she made her way down the steps to the outside she heard his voice. Turning she noticed he had her scarf. Thanking him profusely she wrapped it around her neck, tucking it into her coat. She saw him eye her and then chuckle as they joked about the cold weather. They said Happy New Year once more and when he left her sight, she stayed on the stairs for a little while longer thinking about the future.
December 31, 2005
8:32pm
Peter was late but she didn’t mind as she fixed her makeup one more time and then her dress. It was a older version of a newer one she saw online but she just couldn’t see the sense in buying the updated one even though she wanted it.
The doorbell rang and she quickly rushed to it, taking a deep breath before opening it. He was dressed in khaki pants and a blue polo and while she wished he looked a bit more refined, she gave him a quick hug and let him in.
They talked as she got her coat on and when they reached the restaurant, she had a feeling maybe he wanted to take their relationship to the next level. They had been dating for some time and she spent many nights at his place. But she wasn’t sure if she was ready.
The waiter took their orders and as they sat waiting for their food they laughed over funny things that happened in the year while reflecting on her mother’s illness and his brother’s financial troubles while he gently stroked the top of her hand that rested on the table. When she felt other people’s eyes on them, she pulled away feeling like they were seeing too much and when she saw his face change she knew he wasn’t happy.
11:59pm
She sat on the couch of his apartment in her pajamas, eating popcorn and laughing about something Cary Grant did. He didn’t seem that interested as he looked over his work, a light over his shoulder. When she reached for him he pushed her away and when she saw the clock strike midnight she kissed his cheek lightly, whispering Happy New Year.
And then suddenly he grabbed her hips and pushed her down on the couch, kissing her hard. Scared and confused she pushed him off. Angry he lashed out and she ended up on the other side of his door a few minutes later telling her that it was over.
She spent the next few minutes in tears as she tried to gather up the strength to put on her heels under her pajama pants and then her coat over her Ohio State sweatshirt. As she picked up her bag and walked to her car she saw a couple in the stairway making out. Carefully she excused herself as she walked around them, hearing the snorts of the young girl making fun of her outfit.
December 31, 2006
10:13pm
She ended up at his place after he told her that he needed a friend. His wife had walked out on him and left him with nothing more than a goodbye. She changed into jeans and a blouse as she swiped the last beers from her fridge from her Christmas Eve party she thought of everything she couldn’t say.
He sat on one side of the couch and she sat on the other as he talked. The TV was low, the lights even lower as she watched him pour his heart out, asking her for advice and guidance. When she didn’t really know what to say that would make him feel ok, he said it didn’t matter, because she was doing everything by being here.
She had a beer with him too and realized she didn’t like beer but having someone to share it with, did make it go down easier. He chuckled when he watched her try to enjoy it and ribbed her for her quirks, but never did he make fun of her. She smiled and went over to his DVD collection pulling out a old musical and popping it in. They sat quietly far apart on the couch and in the middle he asked her about the Glee club. She didn’t know much about it but told him he would be great if he led them.
11:59pm
Right in the middle of the musical number he stopped the movie and turned his mp3 player. Confused she looked at the clock and watched as he frantically tried to find the song on it. Once the strains of the song hit her ears through the speakers she smiled as he started to sing.
As the clock struck the New Year, he extended his hand and she took it as he sang along with the song, trying to help her along but she struggled with the lyrics laughing at how badly she was doing. He grabbed her hand and spun her a few times as he continued to sing, laughing and belting it out as she followed him around the living room liking the way his body moved with hers as she clumsily continued to sing, butchering the lyrics.
As the song ended they collapsed on the couch and laughed. When he turned to look at her she felt butterflies all over and when she finally found her voice she told him Happy New Year and he replied by moving a bit closer, brushing her cheek lightly with his lips.
When she left his place after the movie, he lingered in the doorway and told her safe travels home before wishing her a happy new year. She felt his hand next to hers as she stood in the doorway wanting him to grasp it just for a second so she could say the start of her new year started off amazing.
But instead he backed up and said goodnight, closing the door slowly. As she walked down the hallway to the stairs she looked back wishing he would say everything he shouldn’t.
December 31, 2008
7:46pm
Some things she just didn’t want to do and this was one of them. She hated uptight formal parties that meant insincere conversation and fake pleasantries. So it came as no surprise Emma was picked up in a limo to Carl’s dentist friend’s party. As she stumbled into the limo, trying not to get her too expensive dress ripped and wrinkled, he grabbed a hold of her hips and helped into the seat before he introduced her to a few of his fellow colleagues as they rode the bumpy roads to the club.
He looked at her with such love and adoration that she felt guilty for feeling less than happy she was here. As they entered the done up club she felt his hand on the small of her back and it comforted her to know that he was keeping her safe.
The chatter came frequently and fast as she tried to keep up with it. Emma was introduced to so many people she could hardly keep track and by the time they sat down to their table she was at a complete loss as to who was next to her. The old lady seemed to put her at ease as she whispered that through the years she never found the names get any easier. A few people started dancing after dinner and when Carl got her up and swept her onto the floor she felt comfortable in his arms, but finding the atmosphere a little too harsh, his comments a little too sharp for her liking and when he released her, she found herself running to the bathroom because she was still feeling uneasy and worse, still thinking thoughts about someone she shouldn’t.
When she emerged and went to sit back down, Carl was getting into a harmless wrestling match which Emma didn’t take too well. She sat at the table by herself looking at her phone and finding old texts that she saved from him.
11:59pm
The crowd gathered in the middle of the floor, balloons ready to erupt, confetti expected to explode around them as the countdown began. Carl wrapped his arms around her middle, pulling her back into him as she smiled to those around her, all of them yelling out the numbers. When the countdown hit one, the balloons were released, the silver cafetti rained around them and Carl kissed her gently and then more passionate as she turned into him, wrapping her arms around his neck, as he yelled Happy New Year above the cries of joy. As she rested her head on his shoulder for a moment, looking out at the empty tables, she whispered Happy New Year closing her eyes thinking of what he might be doing at this very moment.
As they left the club much later her feet hurt, her dress was sliding off her and all she wanted to do was shower and get to bed. He dropped her off at her place, kissing her hard once more before he released her. As she got out of the limo, closing the door she lingered at the sidewalk for a moment, taking a few deep breaths. As she turned to go into her apartment her phone buzzed. Curious she pulled it out of her purse to see a text from him. The butterflies came back and when we she went to bed, she tossed and turned because she was still in love with him.
December 31, 2010
4:30pm
The apartment was spotless as she pulled out the table clothes to cover all her important surfaces. Her new dining room table, the coffee table and even the counter got the holiday treatment as she spent too long making sure the cloths sat squarely on the top. As the door opened and Carl entered, holding bags of groceries she told him where to go, making sure he didn’t knock over the punch bowl and cups. He put away the groceries, getting going on spreading out the mozzarella sticks, potato skins and mini quiches on the baking sheets much to the dismay of Emma who didn’t like any of those things.
As they prepped for their party of friends and neighbors they took a moment to profess their love for their new marriage and the hopes and dreams of the New Year. While Emma knew he wanted children, she wasn’t ready and told him so many times.
Once she was dressed in a red dress that might turn a few heads and her hair done up she entered the living room twirling and ready for her first official dinner party.
Carl meanwhile was nowhere to be found and when she saw he had to leave due to an emergency at work she sighed and spent the silence fluffing pillows, lighting candles and standing in the middle of the room by herself looking out the window, seeing the reflection of a woman she didn’t really know like she used to.
11:59pm
Carl had been entertaining the crowd with his silly stories and even crazier upbringing. She ended up doing most of the hosting from taking coats, fixing the food and making sure no one was spilling on her furniture and new entertainment center.
With a dishtowel in hand she felt his grab on her arm pulling her towards the window where confused, she stumbled, as he pushed her up against the glass, hurting her back for a bit. He seemed upset at the way people were looking at her, glaring, leering and when she put up her hands in defeat he let her go, smiled and kissed her cheek as everyone around them starting counting down to zero. When the crowd buzzed, bringing in the New Year, she felt Carl’s arms slip around her waist, pulling her into a hug as he whispered how much he loved her into her ear. Emma closed her eyes, trying to fight the tears of fear and hurt as she tried to erase the thoughts of regret.
December 31, 2011
6:32pm
Her new couch was comfy as she settled in with her popcorn and new pajama’s. She had a stack of DVD’s she got for Christmas lined up as she popped the first one in, ready to start her movie marathon with herself and a bottle of wine.
As she pulled the blanket around her a knock at the door jolted her. Confused she got up and went to it, unlocking and pulling it open slowly. He stood there, slightly wet, Mets on, wearing jeans, sneakers and a leather coat, holding a bottle of champagne and more movies. She smiled, let him in and watched him take off his sneakers and coat, finding his feet barefoot.
He smiled at her and she felt much happier now that she had company. He took two glasses out of her cabinet, remembering where they were hidden and she watched him label off all the DVD’s he had brought, apologizing for crashing but telling her that she couldn’t spend New Year’s alone.
When she blushed feeling that everything was going to be ok after her annulment eight months prior she led him to the living room where they sat on the couch, a little close together but not enough to be touching in any way. When he playfully stole the blanket to wrap himself up in it, she tried to take it from him but finding him pulling for it and she found herself laid out on the couch with him on top of her. She stared at him for a moment, searching his eyes for something more but he pulled away quickly, releasing the blanket so she could have it. As they both turned to the TV she looked at his profile to see him intently focused on the movie in front of him.
11:59pm
She felt a hand on her shoulder as she drifted from blackess to light. As she opened her eyes she noticed he was looking at her, smiling, telling her that it was a minute to midnight. Smiling and trying to get herself together so she could enjoy the moment, she sat up, the blanket draped over her legs with a pillow at her head. She didn’t remember it from before and he explained that she had fell asleep a few hours ago and he went to get one from her room. Before she could thank him, he got up and gave her a glass of champagne already filled. Their hands touched and she felt that spark still there.
As they turned on the TV to watch the ball drop she crumpled her legs up so he had more space and she watched as he moved closer to her. As they counted down quietly and then the clock hit, she watched him turn to her, whisper Happy New Year and then bring his glass over so they could clink them. As the gentle sound of new beginnings hit her ears she saw him put his glass down on the table. Curious he seemed nervous as he adjusted himself on the sofa again, this time leaning forward as she felt his warm hands cup her face. She blushed and felt him lift her head slightly so they were locking eyes. Without any words he gently pulled her forward, kissing her gently on the lips. It wasn’t any more, any less, it was just enough to make her believe that they had a chance.
When he released her he smiled, kissed her forehead and told her he had to go because he had already done too much. When she grabbed his arm to stop him from leaving because the moment had to go on, he simply told her that he just needed to figure things out.
The door closed a few minutes later and she refused to look at it.
December 31, 2012
2:32pm
Emma wanted frozen yogurt in the worst way, even in the midst of winter. So she stopped into a shop that was her favorite in the summer and got some, her end of the year holiday shopping all in her hands in bags. The girl gave her some cherry and she went off on her way, feeling the lightness of the cream on her tongue. As she passed a few shops she noticed the necklace that she admired for weeks, gone. Disappointed she walked back to her car, put her bags in the trunk and made her way home, happy to spend the evening with him, doing nothing but watching movies and maybe the occasional dance to his favorite song.
As she entered their apartment she smelled pasta and spices. Smiling he stood over the stove stirring the sauce and humming to Wham. She took her shoes off and put her bags in the closet, reminding herself not to tell him of her spree till their next paycheck came. He turned when she said hello as she kissed his cheek in delight seeing him cook.
They sat down to their favorite meal talking about school and their vacation when he excused himself to go to their bedroom. When he returned he had something behind her back. Happy and excited he handed it to her after she jumped up and down in her seat. Wrapped in pretty silver paper with a bow she took a moment to admire the wrapping. When he said he didn’t do it, she ripped into it, making him laugh. The box was a bright red and when she pulled off the top to reveal more tissue, she took a deep breath and pulled the tissue apart. There in the middle was the necklace she had admired for months, hoping against hope that maybe it would be hers someday.
Brought to tears he was kneeling across from her telling her that he knew how much she loved it and how it was a promise for their future.
11:59pm
She felt his warm fingers stroking her hair as he read the book of Robert Frost poems she had given to him for Christmas. As he spoke, she closed her eyes, her head resting on his chest, feeling his steady breathing under her, as she their feet touched under the blanket. When they heard the cheers around them, he stopped reading, whispered Happy New Year, kissed the top of her head and continued on.
December 31, 2013
9:34pm
It was quiet in the house as Emma tried to get herself off the bed. It was tricky these days being pregnant but she was able to get herself up and walk slowly to the kitchen where she found him sitting on the living room floor trying to screw the pack and play together. She smiled and went over to see if she could help but his concentration and a few swears under his breath told her maybe it was best if she simply stand back and pretend nothing was going on.
When she reached the kitchen to get some soy milk for herself, she noticed it was spotless, all the pots and pans cleaned and the counters wiped down to a shine. The fridge too was stocked with new food. She poured herself some soy milk and then went to see how he was doing, letting him be and making a note to thank him later. As she watched him in his t-shirt and sweatpants she blushed and found herself more turned on then ever at him being such a good husband and expectant father.
As she watched him slide the final piece in and turn the final screw tight, he jumped up in excitement, oblivious to her watching. When she let out a large laugh, he turned and smiled wide at her and then gently he pulled on her hand, pulling her towards it, showing her everything it could do. As she watched him excitedly talk about the music and the mat that adjusted based on the age of the baby.
As he held her hand tight, after he explained everything, out of breath and overwhelmed he brought her to their couch where they both sat quietly with his hand resting on her stomach, telling her how excited he was. She agreed and she found herself drifting off as he talked to the little one, singing and humming at times which warmed her heart. She felt his fingers pull back some of her hair off her face, it getting longer from the hormones.
She felt a warm blanket and then a pillow underneath her as he gently moved her to lay down on the couch, feeling sleepy again. As she drifted into blackness she felt his warm fingers again on her skin as he wrapped the blanket securely around her. Before she completely dreamed away, she heard his voice tell her how much he loved both of them.
11:59pm
Emma sat up with a tub of ice cream. She was freshly out of the shower, feeling a bit refreshed from her nap. A teddy bear was next to her as she fished out another scoop, never realizing how much she loved real ice cream. The TV was screaming some really bad music video from the past year but she was too tired to reach for the remote that was on his side of the bed. Instead she found herself reciting the lyrics since she knew the song and when she looked over to see the clock strike midnight she expected him to come in.
When he didn’t she shrugged, reached for the remote and turned the TV off, liking the silence much better. She put the ice cream down on the nightstand under a coaster and tried to turn to her side but finding it difficult. A few minutes later she heard his footsteps and when she turned he was carrying a CD. He came around to her side, squatting to show her. It was a tracklist of all their favorite songs and as he placed it on the CD player he explained the meaning of each.
As he played the first track she felt tears in her eyes as she remembered it was the song they danced to at their wedding. Smiling he gently helped her up, gathering her in his arms, gently gliding her around their bedroom, smiling and talking about their new family.
December 31, 2014
1:26pm
Mary was down for her nap as Emma tried to find something to wear to their friend’s party that evening. It was going to be the first real outing as a couple since Mary’s birth and while Emma didn’t really want to be away from her daughter, she knew she needed it, even if it was just for a short time.
He entered a few minutes later, with flour all over him. She laughed as he hopped in the shower, asking if he wanted to join him. She playfully slapped him on the shoulder with one of her uglier dresses. As she stood in the mirror looking at the ones she thought might work, she threw them on the bed, knowing that she couldn’t fit into them. Even though she had worked hard, there was still five pounds that had to go. As she looked deep in the back of her closet she found something that she bought right after she found out she was pregnant. It was a dark green and even though it was a little plain, it had enough sparkle to it and she found she could pair it with a skinny belt and silver shoes that she just bought. Happy with her choice she heard him singing through the door. Laughing she put away her dresses, laid out the one she was going to wear and then opened the bathroom door, deciding she did want to have some extra fun.
As she hopped in the shower, surprising him, she knew she made a good choice and could still set his heart on fire.
11:59pm
All the couples were together with Emma wearing a hat and he brushing the confetti that prematurely fallen in her hair. She smiled up at him as he flicked the bits of silver off her shoulder and making sure she was ok. She nodded and held him close as they swayed to the music leaving the crowd in a distant haze as they locked eyes on one another. She counted down to ten softly so only he could hear her. He kept smiling and smiling at her, as he gently pulled her close when the clock hit the New Year. He whispered into her hair as the other couples celebrated around them how amazing she was, how special she was and what a perfect life they had made. She felt the tears as she held onto him tighter, burying her head into his chest, feeling the warmth and security of his love that had never been lost in all the years that she had known him.
The End
/Thanks for reading!/