Daniel Cooper snuggled onto the couch and watched Dick Clark's New Year's special. He had his box of tissues and a nice warm mug of tea to bring in the new year with. He sighed thinking of Alex, Dylan and all his friends at the inn celebrating together while he was stuck in his little house with the flu.
Four days ago he'd waken with chills and fever along with a headache and muscle pains and had called Dr. Watson. She had come right over and advised bedrest, aspirin and liquids after the exam.
The flu could last a week or two and he fervently hoped it was the former because he'd already cancelled one Sunday service and would feel worse if he had to cancel again.
A number of islanders had left thermos of soup outisde his door and he was grateful.
Alex called several times a day to see if he was alright or needed anything.
He had sent up many prayers of thanks for living where so many people cared about him.
The phone rang and he groaned reaching for it.
"Hello?"
"I know it's early but I wanted to wish you a Happy New Year."
"Hey Arnie, same to you."
"You sound terrible."
"The flu ---" Daniel started coughing.
"You okay?" The rabbi asked concerned.
"Yeah." Daniel answered after the coughs had subsided.
"You taking care of yourself, following doctor's orders?"
"Not much else I feel like doing." Daniel sighed.
"You should go to bed. The new year will come in whether you're up or not."
"Right after the ball drops in Times Square you can bet I'm there."
"Okay. I'll call tomorrow or the day after."
"Thanks Arnie, you have a good night."
"I will. Love you Coop."
"Love you too." Daniel smiled and hung up.
He went and took an aspirin and made it back in time to watch the ten second countdown.
Horns and cheers sounded and he smiled.
Happy New Year, he thought as he turned the television off and started for the bedroom.
Daniel walked to the window puzzled and looked out. Surprise came to his face as he saw most of his congregation outside singing the familiar tune.
Alex appeared at the window and mouthed "Happy New Year", then kissed her fingers and put them to the window.
He smiled at her and placed his own kissed fingers to hers.
They joined in the song bringing in the brand new year together after all.