As they climbed in the back, Vince popped open a bottle of champagne, pouring a glass for everyone. “Happy birthday Will!” he said raising his glass. The others followed his lead, in unison cheering “Happy Birthday!!”

The journey to the restaurant took less time than they had thought. The chauffeur gliding the long vehicle to a stop before opening the back door for the group. As they approached the doors, Melissa caught Tara’s arm, “You ready, remembered everything?” she asked. Tara nodded, not wanting to speak in case Willow heard.

A young man opened the door for them, “Welcome to Jasmines!” he said with a smile as they filtered into the comfortable lobby, “Maclay party?” he asked, already knowing the answer. Tara nodded, “If you’d like to follow me to the V.I.P area. My name is Edward, I will be your waiter this evening. If there is anything at all that you need, you only need to ask.” He lead the group into a private area, the colours warm and inviting and the whole area cut off from the other patrons, giving them complete privacy. He pulled out the chair for Willow, then Tara, Vince and Chris doing the same for their partners. “V.I.P area, Tara you are amazing! She whispered, kissing her tenderly on the lips. They ordered quickly from both the food and wine menus and the conversation covered everything from the success of the show, to Paris and Chris and Melissa’s daughter. As their food arrived, it was met with many approving coos from the diners and they ate in relative silence.

After the dessert cart had been around and everyone had eaten their fill, all eyes turned to Tara, the anticipation clear in each pair. She inhaled deeply and rose to her feet. “I’d like to take a moment to wish my beautiful girlfriend a very happy birthday and to thank her for making the past two years the happiest of my life.” Everyone applauded as Edward appeared with a large cart, this one filled with gifts and topped with a beautiful chocolate cake, candles flickering on its peak. Willow blushed deeply, tears filling her eyes as her friends sang a rendition of ‘happy birthday’. “Make a wish!” Vince yelled as she leant in to blow out the candles.