CELEBRATION

GAVIN is now married. He has been on his honeymoon for a week. Henry has ironed things out with Aunt Cindy. The final month of the year has commenced. The Dynasty's are eating dinner by their dining table.

"It has been an eventful year. Furthermore, it has a happy ending—the paramount part. I got my promotion. I resume my new position in January." Greg muses.

"You passed the promotional exam? Wow. Congrats, baby!" Shannel screams.

"That day, I was telling you to be optimistic. See now." Gem pouts.

"Exactly. Destiny can only be delayed, never denied." Henry adds.

"Yeah yeah. You guys win." Greg raises his hands in surrender.

"I'm proud of you, little bro." Gem smiles.

"You are the family's youngster and the family's star." Henry blushes.

"Thank you, everyone."

"I'm certain next year will be great. It will be our year of resignation — Henry's and mine. Greg's promotion too. Gavin's marriage. Hmmm. What's Gem got going on for her?" Shannel teases.

"I'm presently enjoying a good meal with my family." Gem chuckles.

"How's that guy you used to hang out with in Tavis City?" Henry asks.

"I don't remember mentioning any guy to you." Gem protests.

"No, you didn't. But I heard his voice in the background a couple of times when I called you." Henry reinstates.

"And I know she hung out with him until late at night in Tavis City." Shannel adds.

"She posted a goofy picture of him then." Greg interjects.

"That was a dare. He is simply a friend." Gem insists.

"I noticed you avoid calls from a particular person. That must be him. He seems a cool guy." Shannel states.

"He's only a friend, I've told you. I avoid his calls because I don't have anything to say to him."

"You told me he's been transferred to Wess. You don't want to hang out with him?" Greg asks.

"Ugh. You guys are so draining." Gem rolls her eyes.

"I see you, my girl. You work less and worry more. I know you miss him. But you are scared. I know you are scared." Henry stares at Gem.

"This is about Zach, isn't it? An aircraft has to touch the ground before it can fly, Gem. Zach has moved on, long ago. You need to let go too. Break the walls you've built round your heart. Give someone else a chance." Shannel convinces.

"I don't want to be vulnerable again. Zach really hurt me." Gem succumbs.

"We are humans. We are prone to emotions. A heart that feels pain is a heart that acknowledges happiness. Live, love, learn. Your granny taught me that." Henry persuades. "I've not seen you like anyone since Zach. Until this new guy. He must be really appealing for you to feel this way about him after so long. Don't miss your chance at a good relationship, mmm?" Henry pats Gem on her back.

Gem nods her head; her face now downcast.

"How about this? You bring him over for New Year's celebration so we will all meet him. Gavin will be here with Naomi. You will bring him too. Do you comply?"

"Okay, mummy." Gem's voice is shaky.

"It's okay, Gem. Go call him. Get your man." Greg smiles.

"Okay." Gem scoffs, amidst tears. "Let me go call him." She stands and walks to her room.

"Mister, when do we get informed about your love adventure?" Shannel teases Greg.

Greg laughs. "Don't worry about me. I'm out on the streets."

"I hear you talk over the phone every night. Featuring lots of laughter." Henry retorts.

"Ah. Busted. So you've been eavesdropping, dad?" Greg smiles.

"A loud voice you've got, son." Henry responds.

"When do you bring her over?" Shannel inquires.

"When I'm convinced she's the one. Don't rush, mama." Greg winks.

"Run it up." Shannel jests.

In Gem's room, Gem grabs her phone and dials Var's phone number.

"Hello?" Var speaks as he picks the call.

"Var, how are you?"

"Your voice is shaky. Princess, are you okay? You have been avoiding my calls. Why are you crying? Is something wrong, princess?"

"You still call me princess. Despite ignoring your calls. I'm so sorry."

"You are my princess. Nothing can change that."

Gem's cry intensifies. She's overwhelmed by Var's compassion.

"You are still crying? What's wrong? Please, tell me." Var insists.

"It's a long story. I will explain everything. Do you have time to hang out tomorrow?"

"I'm always free for you. Been looking forward to hanging out with you since I entered town. I miss you, baby."

"I miss you too, love. See you tomorrow?"

"Roger that. Sweet dreams."

"Sleep tight."

Gem slept happy like a baby. A new chapter is about to unfold in her life. She couldn't be more ecstatic.