Forever Love (Now & Forever) Read online

  Emily laughed. “I’m sure you will survive.” She felt her cell phone in her pocket buzz. She looked down and saw a message from Alex.

  Thinking of you - Alex

  “Is he jealous that you are here with me?”

  Emily looked up at Eric and smirked. “No, he’s supportive. That’s what I love about him. He wants me to be happy.”

  Eric ignored her comment and reached out to touch her hand. “It’s good to see you again.”

  Emily nodded. “How long are you here?”

  “Just a couple of days, I’m moving some more items and then I should be completely done.”

  Emily smiled and felt her heart break a little bit. Was she going to miss him?

  “What’s wrong, Emily?” Eric asked her as he stood her up and pulled her out of her chair.

  Emily shook her head but couldn’t respond.

  “I saw on your face, I mentioned that I would be completely gone and your face went blank. You are going to miss me. Just be honest with me.”

  Emily looked into his eyes and nodded.

  Eric sighed and pulled her against him. “Emily, you can still come with me. I will buy out your lease agreement. You and Emma can move in with me and we will find you that dream job in Denver.”

  Emily started to cry. “I can’t.”

  “Why?”

  “Eric, I’m with Alex. I have a job here that I really enjoy and in case you forgot, we broke up.”

  “God, Emily! When are you going to admit that you still love me?”

  Emily took a deep breath and looked at him. This was her last chance before he left her for good. She needed to search within her heart and decide where she wanted to be. He was offering her the world that they always dreamt of but she loved Alex. He was providing her to life that was stable.

  “Emily?” Eric whispered to her.

  “I love you, Eric. I do. You were my first love and you always will be. We have Emma because of that love and I would never change that. But, I can’t just leave Buffalo and pray that all our problems will be automatically fixed.”

  “I’m not saying that they would be. I know that I have to earn your trust back and we would have to start over but it would be worth it because you will see how much I have changed from a year ago. I’ve grown into a man, Emily. I wish you could see that. I have the career that I always wanted, I have our dream house and now I just need you by my side. Please.”

  Emily started to cry as she kissed him. He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her tight. She pulled away just enough to whisper to him, “Good bye, Eric.”

  It was the toughest decision of her life and she wasn’t hundred positive that she made the right move but for her life right now, it had to be this way.

  ********************

  Sam’s wedding day had arrived. It was a hectic month of booking the caterer, reserving the tent and several dress fittings. Emily tried to take it all in stride and help her friend the best way she knew how. She stood next to her and let her vent over all the details.

  Alex allowed them to take control of his house and let them do whatever they needed to do. The night before the wedding, everything was set in place. The designers had transformed Alex’s backyard into a wedding wonderland. It was beautiful, from the white roses that hung over all the arches to the silver twilight tent decorated with chandeliers and a custom made dance floor.

  The rehearsal dinner went off as planned. Everyone had their assignments for the following day and Emily finally had a chance to sit down and just observe Sam and Rob being in love with each other. They were leaving for Seattle on Monday and this was the last time Emily would see them for a long time. Rob spun Sam around the dance floor and held her close to him.

  Emily watched as Eric entered the tent again and high fived Rob. Most of the people had left for the evening, leaving a small group of friends to finish up decorating and make sure everything was ready for the morning.

  Eric made his way over to Emily and sat down next to her. “Where’s Alex?”

  Emily laughed. “He’s probably hiding in the house and wondering why he allowed us to do this to his house.”

  “No, I’m right here. I’m enjoying the entire process,” Alex said as he approached them, kissing Emily lightly and then sitting on her other side.

  “You will regret this by tomorrow night,” Emily laughed as she yawned.

  Alex smiled and turned to Eric. “How’s Denver treating you? We haven’t had a chance to talk.”

  “It’s going great. I’m learning the playbook, figuring out my way around a new city and trying to start my life there.”

  Alex nodded. “It must be difficult. I know that Emma misses you. She told me the other day about how her daddy is a football player.”

  Eric smiled. “Yeah, I miss her too. I just wish I didn’t take her for granted,” He paused and looked at Emily. “And you.”

  Emily shook her head. “We are passed it, Eric. All is good in the world.”

  They were distracted when Sam called out to them. “Guys, time for bed. Every single one of you has a very important job tomorrow and we all need our beauty sleep!”

  Alex laughed. “Wait! I already gave you my house!”

  Sam laughed. “Not you, Alex. You are letting me sleep me here too so your part is over. But these slackers need to go sleep.”

  Emily shook her head. “Rob, say good night, you can’t see her until tomorrow afternoon. Eric, make sure he goes home. I need to call my mom and check on Emma and then I will join you upstairs, Sam.” She leaned over and kissed Alex.

  Emily disappeared with Sam and headed back to the house.

  Saturday morning was hectic. Emily was rushing around to make sure that Sam didn’t have any worries. After a morning at the spa, her bridesmaids and mother crowded around her as the dress slipped into place. Emily started to cry as she finished zipping her up and looked into the mirror.

  “You are breathtaking, Sam.” Everyone agreed as Sam started to shake. “What’s wrong?”

  She turned and looked at Emily. “I’m so nervous all of a sudden.”

  Emily laughed. “Of course you are. It’s normal. You are marrying the man that you love. There is nothing better than that, ok?”

  Sam nodded and hugged Emily. They heard the door crack open as Eric entered. “Is everyone decent in here?”

  Sam laughed. “Yes, we are all dressed.”

  Eric looked into the room and directly at Sam. “Wow.”

  “You think Rob will like the dress?”

  Eric nodded. “If he doesn’t, I will personally hurt him.”

  Everyone laughed as he spotted Emily gathering up everyone’s bouquets and handing them out to the rest of the bridesmaids.

  “Hey, can I talk with you for a second?”

  Emily nodded. “Sure. Walk with me. I need to take these down to the guys,” She said as she grabbed the boutineers.

  They walked down the hallway as Eric suddenly reached for her arm and stopped her. “I just want to make sure you are happy. I’m leaving tomorrow and I won’t be back for awhile. I need to know that you will be happy.”

  Emily nodded and smiled. “I am happy, Eric. I want the same for you.”

  Eric had a look on his face like he wasn’t finished but decided at the last minute not to say anything else. Emily looked at him and put the box of flowers on the hallway table. She reached for Eric’s and pinned it on his jacket. “You look handsome today.”

  Eric grinned. “Thank you. You are stunning. Sam really knew what she was doing when she picked out your dress.”

  “Thank you. Have you seen Emma yet? My mom dropped her off this morning so she could get ready to be the flower girl.”

  Eric nodded. “Yeah, Rob was having fun with her and trying to steal her rose petals.”

  Emily laughed. “She’s very protective of them.” They continued down the hallway and into the room with all the guys. They all whistled as she pinned their boutineers on.

 
“Ok boys. Grow up.”

  Rob laughed. “How’s Sam doing?”

  “She’s beautiful just wait until you see her.”

  Rob grinned from ear to ear. “I have no idea why she picked me.”

  “Because you are one of the good guys, Rob. Just remember that and take care of her.”

  Rob kissed Emily's cheek and pulled her off to the side. “Don’t hate me but I need to say this. Don’t forget about Eric, ok? He still loves you. Last night, we were hanging out and talking about where life has taken us and he really told me how he feels about you. I told him to move on and not wait around you, no offense, but he wasn’t listening to me. He said he would date if the moment presents itself but he won’t go searching for it.”

  Emily frowned. “I know, Rob. I told him several times that I have moved on but I think once he’s living his life in Denver and playing football, he will move on. It takes time. I had Alex to help me but I was a mess.”

  Rob nodded. “I just worry about him.”

  “Me too but he will be ok.” Emily smiled as she left the room. She headed back upstairs and ran into Alex by his bedroom.

  “You are beautiful. Have I mentioned that today yet?”

  Emily blushed and walked over to him. “A few times but you can keep telling me. You don’t look so bad yourself. I love you in a nice suit.”

  Alex leaned down and gently brushed his lips across hers. Emily moaned softly as his hand braced her face and deepened the kiss. “You taste wonderful too.”

  Emily blushed again as Sam came into the hallway. “Stop making out with your boyfriend and come pamper me!”

  Emily rolled her eyes at Alex. “Ok bridezilla, calm down!”

  *******************

  The wedding went off without a hitch. It was a beautiful ceremony as they exchanged their vows and became husband and wife. The reception was elegant as dinner was served and night fell upon the event. The lights in the tent casted a romantic glow as they danced their first dance as a married couple.

  Emily left the head table and found Alex at the bar. “Thank you.”

  “For what?” Alex asked.

  “Letting us use your house at a moment’s notice. Sam is so happy and that’s what I wanted for her.”

  “You are a wonderful friend. You did a great job today.”

  Emily smiled and reached for a glass of champagne. She glanced around the room and watched as couples entered the dance floor.

  “Would you do me the honor of dancing with me, Miss. Stone?”

  Emily nodded. “It would be my pleasure.” She took his hand as he guided them onto the dance floor. She closed her eyes as he embraced her and just enjoyed the moment.

  As the song ended, she looked up at Alex and whispered, “I love you.”

  “I love you too, Emily.” He placed his lips gently on hers.

  The night was over before she knew it. The bouquet was thrown, the garter was taken off and they danced all the funny dances they could think of. Overall it was a beautiful occasion.

  The happy couple left and Emily was left to clean up the important items and make sure they got back to Sam in the morning. She looked around the tent and noticed she was all by herself. The caterers were busy outside, getting the trucks ready to clean up Alex’s backyard.

  Emily walked onto the dance floor with Sam’s veil in her hand and her dress shoes in the other. “You look beautiful out there.”

  She twirled around to see Eric standing at the entrance staring at her. “You are drunk. I’m tired, worn out and desperately need a bath.”

  “I think you are perfect.”

  Emily smiled and headed towards him. “Looks like everyone is gone, I’m just picking the important stuff. I’m so happy for them.”

  “I am too, gives me hope that I will have that one day.”

  Emily smiled at him, “You will, Eric.”

  “Emma went home with my mom and you can pick her up tomorrow morning. I figured you needed the rest tonight.”

  “Thank you. That’s perfect.” Emily wrapped her arms around him and felt his embrace tighten around her.

  “I’m going to miss you, Emily.”

  “I’m going to miss you too, Eric.”

  CHAPTER FOURTEEN

  Over the next few months, Emily found herself really enjoying her job. George took her under his wing and she learned so much about the art business and how the industry really worked. She found herself working late and absorbing as much as she could from her co-workers.

  Her art pieces were displayed at Henry’s gallery and she even sold a few paintings which helped her build up her savings. Every weekend, she would stop by the gallery and look around at all the new pieces and admire her hard work on display.

  Alex was an important part of her life, as well. He was spending more time with her and Emma. He took them on a trip to a local amusement park and they had a great time as a family.

  For the most part, Emily was trying to keep her distance from Eric. Emma would call him and they would talk on the phone. Emily would still consult with him about the important parenting issues but they were allowing themselves time to move on and start a new life.

  The football season was underway with training camp winding down and pre-season right around the corner. Emily would watch the sport shows after Emma was in bed and catch up on the news of the day about Eric. The announcers were hoping that he would have a lot of playing time in pre-season.

  It was late one night in August when Emily couldn’t sleep. Earlier in the day, Emma was feeling sick and she was fussy all day long. She took the day off of work to care for her but after finally getting her to bed at nine in the evening, Emily couldn’t sleep.

  She tossed and turned which seemed to be for hours but finally gave up around eleven and went to the kitchen for a snack. She turned on the television and watched some old re-runs.

  She reached for her cell phone and sent a text to Alex.

  Are you up? - Emily

  Emily continued to watch the television waiting for a response but it never came. He must have been sleeping. She grabbed for phone again and just stared at it. She pulled up Eric’s number and typed out a message.

  Are you there? - Emily

  Before she could put the phone down, he responded.

  Yes - what’s wrong? -Eric

  Nada, can’t sleep - Emily

  Emily curled onto the couch as her phone rang. She smiled as she saw Eric’s number flash onto the screen.

  “Hey.”

  “Why can’t you sleep?” Eric asked.

  “Emma was sick today and I stayed home to take care of her. I guess I’m overtired and just can’t fall asleep.”

  “Is Emma ok?”

  “Yes, she’s sleeping now. I think she just had a touch of a stomach bug.” She sensed Eric calm down slightly.

  “I’m happy to hear that she is sleeping, so how do we get you to sleep now?”

  Emily laughed. “I’m not sure. I tried texting Alex but apparently he’s sleeping. What are you doing?”

  “Getting ready for pre-season, it’s my time to shine.”

  “You will be fantastic, Eric. I remember the first time I saw you throw a pass down the field. That seems like so long ago.”

  “It was. Those were kids, Emily. These are big burly men who are going to want to hurt me.”

  Emily couldn’t help but laugh at him. “So, make sure you get the ball down the field before they do!”

  Eric chuckled. “I will try to remember that.”

  Emily sighed and yawned.

  “Did you want to go to bed?” Eric asked.

  “Not yet.”

  Eric didn’t say anything right away. “I miss you.”

  “I miss you too. How are the projects around the house going?”

  “I was working on a few of them today.”

  “You need to send me pictures so I can see it.”

  “I will. My parents are coming out for the home opener. Did you want to c
ome with Emma and I suppose Alex?”

  Emily rolled over on her back and looked at the ceiling. “Eric, we are getting along so well lately. I don’t want to rock the boat.”

  Eric chuckled. “I promise to behave myself.” He paused, “Maybe.”

  Emily couldn’t help but laugh at him. “Ok, I’m going to bed. Talk soon?”

  “Yes.”

  “Good night.” She ended the phone call and rolled over and slept on the couch that night.

  When she woke up, it was almost five in the morning. She yawned as she got up and walked down the hallway to Emma’s room. She slowly opened the door to see her baby sleeping soundly in her bed. She quietly walked over to her and felt her head. She smiled and kissed her softly.

  She changed for work and got breakfast ready. She reached for her phone and saw a text from Alex.

  Why were you up so late last night? - Alex

  Just couldn’t sleep, getting ready for work. C U soon - Emily

  Emily woke Emma up and started the morning process of getting her ready. They ate breakfast and talked about her new pre-school that she would be starting next month. Emily couldn’t believe her little girl was three years old and starting a new adventure of her own.

  She dropped her off with Mrs. Mason and headed into work for the day. As she approached her desk, she noticed a bouquet a red roses on her desk. She couldn’t help but smile.

  “Good Morning, Emily! What a wonderful surprise, are they from your boyfriend?”

  Emily laughed, “I hope so but it could be fun if they aren’t!”

  George laughed as he walked down the hall towards the break room. Emily took the chance to read the card. As she was about to open it, she glanced down the hallway towards Alex’s office as he walked out of his door.

  She quickly saw a frown appear on his face as he spotted the roses. Emily suddenly became confused as she proceeded to read the card.

  I miss you.

  That’s what the entire card said as Emily stared at it. Her heart raced but her mind knew that they were from Eric not Alex. She quickly looked up again but Alex had disappeared back into his office as Sue approached her.