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“I know, but I didn’t have time earlier. I held an impromptu prep session in my classroom during lunch.”
Emma’s colleague gave a sneer before turning away. She knew some of the other teachers resented her for being an overachiever, but Emma found immense satisfaction in her job. It was more than a means of earning a living; it was an avenue to help others reach their full potential.
As Emma sat at a table, the other teachers left the lounge. She savored her wrap, and admired the stunning vase filled with daisies, which added a touch of radiance to the otherwise mundane space. After a few moments of solitude, she decided to call Luke.
Luke’s voice filled Emma’s ear as soon as he answered. “Hey, Emma, how are you? How was school today? Is everything alright?”
Emma chuckled softly while listening to Luke’s rapid-fire questions. “I’m good, thanks for asking. School was crazy busy, but I survived. And yes, everything’s alright. I wanted to call and thank you for the daisies you sent. They’re beautiful. No one’s ever sent me flowers for my birthday before.”
“I’m glad you enjoyed them,” Luke said, a hint of relief in his voice. “I was starting to worry they might have gone to the wrong school.”
Emma laughed, imagining a bunch of daisies sitting unclaimed in a hallway somewhere. “No, they definitely made it to the right person. And sorry about that, it’s been one of those days. I haven’t even had a chance to eat until now.”
“The flowers are only the beginning,” Luke said. “You deserve so much more, Emma. That’s why I’m taking you out tonight.”
While contemplating Luke’s kind gesture, Emma recalled her past birthday when her friends had surprised her with a helicopter ride along the coastline. But before she could even entertain the thought, Chad’s voice cut through.
“Why would you want to do something like that? It’s just a birthday, Emma. Grow up.”
She had looked longingly at the helicopter, imagining the breathtaking views she would miss. She remembered the sting of embarrassment when she reluctantly declined the helicopter ride. Still, Emma could feel the icy touch of Chad’s hand as he’d led her away, and the warmth of her friends’ concerned glances burning into her back.
Emma hesitated. “That sounds really nice, Luke, but I’m not sure if I can do anything tonight. Riley gets anxious when I leave him alone at night.”
“Well, I’ve got that covered. Lisa will be over at your house at six to stay with him for the evening.”
Warmth rose in Emma’s chest. She couldn’t help but compare Luke’s thoughtfulness with Chad’s carelessness; Chad had never bothered to think ahead like Luke had.
Emma searched for another excuse to avoid going out, but she realized she couldn’t find one. “Alright, Luke. If Riley’s good, then sure, I’m in for tonight.”
“Awesome! I think you’re going to like it.”
“Can you give me a hint? I just want to be prepared,” Emma asked.
“Nope. It’s a surprise. Don’t worry—it’ll be worth it.”
Emma took a deep breath and decided to trust him. “What time should I be ready?”
“Six-thirty. A driver will pick you up at your house,” Luke said.
“A driver? Wow, I should grab my stuff then,” Emma said, a bit overwhelmed by the grandeur.
“Okay, Emma. I’ll see you tonight.”
The flowers were a wonderful surprise. But now a driver? Where was Luke taking her? And more importantly, what was she going to wear? Her mind raced with possibilities.
After hanging up, Emma quickly finished her wrap, gathered her things, grabbed the flowers, and stood up from the table. Glancing at her phone, she realized it was already ten after four. If she didn’t hurry, she wouldn’t have much time to get ready before the driver arrived.
As Emma made her way to the door, she saw Jeremiah leaving the building.
A knot formed in her stomach, guilt creeping up on her for keeping him in the dark about her relationship with Luke. As much as she wanted to tell Jeremiah, it wasn’t her place to do so. Luke would have to be the one to tell him when the time was right, but that time wasn’t now.
Emma clutched the bouquet and pushed those thoughts aside, determined not to let them ruin her birthday celebration. Tonight was going to be a night to remember, she thought, feeling a spark of excitement. Neither the lingering guilt nor Chad’s hurtful words would spoil it for her. This evening was about her and the man she was falling for, and she was going to enjoy every moment of it.
24
Luke
In the dim glow of the bathroom light, a hopeful grin broadening across Luke’s face. It was that “Emma” effect again. Every time they were together, he felt like the luckiest man alive. And tonight would be no exception.
