Okay, I know I really really shouldn't have written this because it's so irrelevant, and I didn't have time, but I made this my main priority because this 'idea' has been haunting my brain, and the only way it'll happen is if I write it...
So this isn't about Nathan and Haley, it's about Joy and James. I don't know if this is against the 'rules' of fan fiction but I'm doing it anyway. I love them, and I'm sure I'm not the only one who fantasizes about them being together.
So basically It'll probably just be a one shot unless I change my mind... but over all it's in honor of the One Tree Hill convention in Paris this weekend. I would die if I was there, but because I can't be, I wanted to write this.
What happens when James and Joy meet up in Paris, and old feelings suddenly come back? Will the feelings be mutual? *Sadly, but everything is made up. in this fic*
song credit: Taylor Swift (Based on her new song "Sweeter Than Fiction")
Bethany Joy Lenz stepped off of her plane, and took in a deep breath of air. This weekend she was in Paris, France for the "Wilmington to Paris Convention", or in other words the "One Tree Hill Convention."
She smiled widely as she took in her surroundings. She always loved Paris- what girl doesn't? It's the city of love. She pushed her sun glasses down, and trotted through the International airport, with her publicist right behind her.
"Are you excited, Joy?" The red headed woman, named Sasha Meyers, asked.
"Yes!" She chuckled, and felt her heart warm. "I haven't seen everyone in forever! I miss them like crazy." Joy explained as she headed to the baggage claim.
"I checked your twitter this morning. People are dying for an interview with you and James." Sasha said offhandedly.
At the mention of Jame's name, Joy's heart unexpectedly warmed. She felt an odd sensation in her stomach, and she didn't know what it was.
"I'm probably just hungry..." She thought to herself.
"People are actually crazy!" Sasha continued. "They think 'Naley' is real!"
Joy gave her best fake laugh, and rolled her eyes, "That's ridiculous."
"Yeah, I know! Seriously. The best part is that people want you and James to date. They already gave you a couple name. I think it was Jethany or something. How crazy is that?"
Joy bit down on her lip, and laughed. "I thought people still think I'm 'dating' Wes?"
"Who knows." Sasha shrugged, "People need to mind their own business!"
Joy chuckled, and made an attempt to grab her large suitcase off the carousel, but as she grabbed the handle, she realized it was far to heavy to lift. Joy then noticed a tall, muscular guy climb in front of her try and pick it up. She huffed out an annoyed deep breath, and furrowed her eyebrows.
"Excuse me, that's mine!" She said in a firm tone.
The man chuckled, and lifted the suitcase with ease off of the conveyor belt, and put it on the ground.
Joy was staring at the man's arms, and she couldn't help but think that they looked familiar. She bit down on her lip when she noticed the bicep bulge when the man carried the suitcase.
She was lost in her day dream, and didn't realize the man was holding out her suitcase, and speaking to her.
"What? You don't remember me? C'mon Lenz, it hasn't been that long." The raven haired man joked.
Joy suddenly snapped out of her daze, and stared into those familiar blue eyes. She felt her heart actually stop, and her stomach got that tingly feelings again.
"James Lafferty!" She screamed, and practically leapt into his arms.
James chuckled, and wrapped his arms tightly around her waist. "You're acting like a crazed fan." He whispered.
Joy pulled away and crinkled her nose, "I'm sorry. It's just.. wow.. I haven't seen you in like a year! How are you?"
"I'm good... busy... but good. How are you?" James smiled widely, and stared into her large brown eyes.
Joy clapped excitedly, "I've never been better! Life's great."
James smiled genuinely and couldn't help but have his eyes wander over her body.
"You look great." James complimented, and truly meant it.
He had watched Joy evolve over the past ten years, with a new hair style every season, and new wardrobes, but she was always the same Joy. But today... wow. James was speechless. Joy was always attractive, but she never looked better than she did right now.
Joy felt herself blush-
"What the hell? Am I blushing? I never blush!" Joy screamed inside her mind.
"Thank you." She said with a wide smile.
James felt his knees go weak when she smiled at him. He always was fascinated by her smile. All it took was one smile from her, and he would melt. It was one of the many features he had always admired about her.
"Seriously, you look.. a,-amazing! I mean you always look amazing, but... wow." James stumbled upon his words, and felt like a complete loser. Why was he acting like this? He had known Joy practically his whole life, so why was he suddenly nervous?
Joy giggled softly, and James could once again feel his knees go weak. God.. that laugh was permanently stitched into his brain. It was a drug, and extremely intoxicating.
"Well I lost a lot of weight after I had Maria, and I once again dyed my hair." She explained.
James grinned, "How is that little munchkin?"
Joy laughed and tucked a piece of hair behind her ear. "She's good- growing up fast, but getting cuter each and every day."
"So I'm sure she must look like you." James said before thinking.
"Am I flirting with her?"
Joy felt her cheeks warm, and once again let out a small laugh. "Yeah, I mean a lot of people tell me we look alike."
"Well then that's good. I'm sure she's going to be beautiful." James said, as that was the first thing to pop in his mind.
Joy's cheeks flushed crimson red.
Is it getting hot in here?
"Uh,, do you want to see a picture of her?" Joy suddenly asked.
"Sure." James smiled. "I'd love to."
Joy quickly grabbed her cellphone out of her jean pocket, and clicked her power button. Her lockscreen background was an image of her three year old daughter dressed as Cinderella.
James smiled when he looked at the picture. "Wow she did get big! She's adorable!"
"Thanks." Joy smiled.
"Where is she anyway?" James asked non- nonchalantly.
"My parents are watching her."
"Not Mike?" James asked with a smug look.
Joy rolled her eyes. She knew James and Mike were not fond of each other for several reasons.
"No. I don't even know where he is..." Joy said with a frown.
"I'm sorry." James said and gave her a sympathetic look. "He was an ass. You're so much better without him."
Joy chuckled, "I know."
"Seriously. What the hell did you see in him?"
"I don't know." Joy shrugged. "I'm just glad the divorce is final."
Me too.
"We have a lot to catch up on." James pointed out.
"I know!" Joy said with wide eyes. "we should probably get out of this airport, you know, before people notice."
"You're embarrassed to be seen with me?" James joked.
"Obviously." Joy replied with a coy smile.
James shook his head and smiled, he and Joy walked towards the exit.
"Hey, where'd Sasha go?" Joy suddenly asked.
James furrowed his brow, "Who?"
"My publicist." Joy replied and started to glance around the busy airport. A minute later, she saw Sasha running over to them.
"Joy! There you are! I've been looking for you!"
Joy cocked her jaw and laughed softly, "Catching up with an old friend. Sorry."
Sasha's eyes instantly widened as she looked behind Joy and saw the 6"2' actor, James Lafferty.
"How did that happen?" She laughed.
James pointed to Joys' suitcase. "Miss. Lenz over here couldn't lift her suitcase so I had to go and save the day."
Joy rolled her eyes, "Right. That's what happened." She snorted sarcastically.
"It's true!"
Sasha then cleared her throat, "Well it's nice to meet you James."
"You too." James said in a friendly voice.
"Anyway, Joy, I wanted to tell you that a fan has just tweeted a picture of you in the airport, so people know that you're here." Sasha said in a hasty voice.
Joy sighed, and ran a hand through her dirty blond curls. "Okay, so what do you want to do?"
"Well I just called for a driver to take us back to the hotel." Sasha said in a sophisticated voice.
Joy glanced at James who was starring at his feet, "Oh you know what Sash, I'm going to grab a coffee with James and catch up. I'll meet you at the hotel later."
James head suddenly shot up and smiled softly.
"Do you think that's a good idea?" Sasha snapped. "I mean if someone see's you together the fans are going to go crazy..."
"Sasha, we're friends. It's really not a big deal." Joy said.
"Well I think I should come with you. I don't want to leave you alone without security." Sasha replied in a firm tone.
"We'll be fine. Besides, I doubt people will actually recognize us." Joy argued.
"Okay, fine. Suit yourself. James, are you with anyone?"
"Huh?" James asked.
"Did you bring anyone with you? Is your girlfriend here?" Sasha asked as she tapped her foot against the floor.
Joy suddenly felt her smile fade at the mention of Jame's girlfriend. She didn't know if they were still together, but now that the information had been affirmed, it was like a cloud that covered the sun. She wasn't happy.
"Oh, Eve? No she's not coming, she has work. My brother and his girlfriend are here though. I'm not sure where they went. They kind of ditched me."
"What hotel are you staying at?" Joy asked.
"Chataeu Breiar. What about you?"
"Me too!" Joy smiled. "Okay perfect, so we can grab some coffee and head back to the hotel together."
Sasha huffed, "Okay but you need to be back at 10. We have a long day tomorrow, and you need to get sleep. I'm sure you probably have jet lag. I'm going to set up an interview for you tomorrow."
"Will it be with James?" Joy asked, and couldn't help but hope.
"Uh.. I don't know. Do you want it to be?" Sasha asked.
"Yes! Well if it's okay with you..." Joy said as she turned toward James.
"Of course." He smiled. "That sounds fun."
"Okay great. See you later Sasha!" Joy said dismissively, and grabbed James' arm, as they made their way outside.
"I take it you don't really like her?" James assumed.
Joy shrugged, and smiled when James held the door open for her.
"I do like her, it's just, she can tend to be a little overwhelming from time to time. Plus, she thinks I'm like an A list celebrity but I'm not. I can leave my house and go out. I don't need a security guard."
James laughed, "I know what you mean." He replied. "Here let me take your bag." James said and gently took Joy's black suitcase, and started to lift it up.
"Thank you!" Joy smiled widely.
"Sure. So I know how much you love French Cafes, and I happen to know a really great one not to far from here. You wanna go?"
"Hell yeah!" Joy said excitedly.
"Alright cool, it's just down the street."
Joy eagerly followed James through a mass of people, and they both looked down to try and hide their identity. Luckily no one seemed to notice who they were so they were able to get to the cafe safely and quickly.
Once again, James held the door open for Joy, and she walked inside with a wide smile.
"This place is so cute!" She gushed.
"I figure you would like it." James laughed.
Just then a waitress came over and greeted them. "Bonjour!"
James and Joy looked at eachother and smiled.
"Do you know French?" James whispered.
"A little bit."
"I thought you were 'tutor girl'." James flirted.
Joy rolled her eyes, "That's Haley, not me."
"Où voulez vous asseoir?" The waitress asked.
James' eye widened, "Uh, no comprendo."
Joy let out a loud laugh, and then covered her mouth with her hands. "That's Spanish you ass!"
James smirked, "Oops."
"Peut-on s'asseoir dans le dos s'il vous plaît?" Joy asked in a french accent.
"What the hell did you just say?" James asked with a small smile.
"I asked to sit in the back."
"Oui, suivez-moi bien." The waitress smiled, and Joy beckoned James with a head nod to follow the waitress.
James took this opportunity to check out Joy from behind.
Wait what am I doing? I have a girlfriend. Eve. And I love her. Remember?
James never believed in cheating. In fact he highly discourages it, but for some reason, he felt right. Like this was where he was supposed to be. And besides, Joy was just an old friend... who he happened to be in love with for the first few seasons of One Tree Hill.
"So. James Lafferty." Joy said with a giant smile, and rested her chin in her hands. "What's new?"
James looked down at the menu, and then back up at Joy. He couldn't remember the last time he and Joy hung out alone, but he was really enjoying it.
"I don't know where to begin." He smiled.
"Tell me about that movie you were in!"
James shrugged, "Oh, it wasn't that big of a deal..."
"Are you kidding? It's huge!" Joy smiled, "C'mon, tell me about it."
"I don't know. What do you want to know?" James asked shyly.
"How was it to not work with me?" Joy smirked.
"It was weird. It took a while to get used to. Plus the girl I had to kiss, was so awkward. It was completely different then our- I mean when Nathan and Haley would kiss."
Joy smiled, and starred into his clear blue eyes. "Yeah. I think we were just so used to it that it was never awkward. I just feel comfortable around you"
"Me too." James smiled.
"Do you remember the first time we had to kiss?" Joy asked quietly.
"Oh god. Yeah. How can I forget? I was so nervous!"
"Seriously?" Joy asked intrigued.
"Yeah, I mean I was an eighteen year old guy, and well you were attractive, I was just nervous I'd mess up or accidentally use tongue, or get really into it..."
Joy was sipping on her water when she almost started to choke from laughing so hard.
"What?" James asked.
"That's so cute!"
James blushed and looked down at his hands. "C'mon that's really embarrassing, I was so nervous around you."
"Why?"
"I didn't want to do anything to make you hate me. I know I was the young one, so I wanted to try and be mature but the truth was that I really had a hard time controlling myself."
Joy smiled, and reached across the table to take Jame's hand in hers. "James I could never hate you."
"I know, but I never had to kiss someone on screen before so I didn't really know how to do it."
"Well it seemed like you knew what you were doing." Joy smirked.
James' eyes widened and he gulped conspicuously. "Thanks, but I wasn't a Soap Opera star like you you were." He smirked.
Haley rolled her eyes, "It was for like two years."
"How'd you do it though? I mean wasn't it ever awkward?"
"Yeah. Sometimes. We really had to force the chemistry too, but with you.. everything was so natural.. it was weird." Joy confessed.
"Yeah. I remember a fan asked me how we had so much chemistry and I didn't know what to say, I guess it just happens." James laughed nervously.
Joy felt her stomach flutter, and decided she really needed to eat.
"I'm starving!" She said suddenly, causing James to laugh.
"I don't understand how a tiny person like you can eat so much and stay so damn skinny!" James said.
Joy stuck her tongue out at him, "Are you implying that I'm fat?"
"What? No! I said-"
"James, chill, I'm kidding. You're too serious. Lighten up a bit." Joy advised with a small smile.
"Right. I forgot you had a sassy side to you."
"Of course I do!" Joy smirked.
"So what about you? What's new? I saw you in Dexter the other night. Congratulations!" James said.
"Oh thanks. I mean it wasn't a big deal, my character got killed off."
"Aw." James pouted. "Thank god Shwahn never killed you off of One Tree Hill. I don't know how I'd do it without you."
"I know! I would never leave you, or the rest of the cast. I love you guys too much!." Joy said seriously.
"So how's your album coming?" James asked.
"How'd you know?"
"I saw your tweets, and I may have listened to your song, 'Please'. It's seriously amazing."
Joy blushed, "Thanks. I had a lot of inspiration for it."
"Well it's amazing. You've always been such a great singer." James complimented.
"What do I do to deserve such sweet compliments from James Lafferty?"
James didn't do anything but just stared into her eyes.
"What?" She asked self consciously.
James quickly looked away, "Nothing.. never mind."
"Come on! Tell me!" Joy whined.
James inhaled sharply and looked back at Joy. "I've really missed you."
"Me too. We really need to stay in touch! Nothing's the same without you anymore"
James suddenly scratched the back of his head, "I know, as soon as I move to LA, we can definitely get together more."
Joy smiled and held at her pinky. "You promise?"
James grinned, and connected his pink to hers, "Promise."
"Good." Joy agreed. "So when are you moving?"
James ran a hand over his face, "Well right now I've been in Chicago promoting my new movie, but Eve is in New York to model, so I guess when there's an opening in our schedules we'll move."
At the mention of Eve, Joy felt her heart constrict in her chest. "Oh.. that's good."
James shrugged, "I guess so."
Joy instantly sensed something was wrong by the tone of his voice. "What's going on Lafferty?"
James smiled sadly. Joy somehow always knew when something was on his mind. "I don't really know how to express my feelings."
Joy just looked into his clear blue eyes and could sense the overwhelming sadness. "Just say what's on your mind." She advised.
"Well Eve and I have kind of been on the rocks lately." James said quietly.
"Really?" Joy asked with sympathy in her voice, and the slightest bit of happiness.
Happiness? What?
"Yeah the whole distance thing is really taking a toll on our relationship. We broke up like 3 times over the past five months, but she always comes back and we say we'll change, but honesty it's like a repeating cycle and I'm getting tired of it." James sighed.
Joy gave him a sympathetic smile, and took his hand in hers. "So what are you going to do about it?"
"I don't know. Plus, she's a lot younger than me. I want to eventually settle down, but I don't think she's the one for me. Sure, we have fun, and she makes me happy, but it's not what it used to be like. We just want different things."
"I know how you feel. That's part of the reason Michael and I broke up." Joy said.
James ran a hand through his hair, "A part of me thinks it would be best if we go our separate ways, but the other part of me says that she's the best I'm going to get."
"So you're staying with her because you think there's no one else?" Joy asked.
James nodded, "Yeah I guess."
Joy smiled, "That's so far from the truth!"
"What do you mean?"
"Do you see all of the women out there who are obsessed with you? Seriously, I'm sure there are girls who would kill to date you." She laughed.
"Yeah but those girls don't know me. They want 'Nathan Scott' and I'm not him." He said solemnly.
"You're better." Joy stated proudly.
James looked up, and felt a giant smile stretch across his face. Joy was always his go-to girl when ever he needed an uplifting. She always made him feel better, and she always understood him- sometimes better than he understood himself.
"You think so?" He inquired.
"I know so." Joy confirmed. "You're the kindest, smartest, funniest, bravest guy I know. It helps that you're not too bad on the eyes either." She added with a wink.
James gave her a crooked smile, but it then turned into another frown.
"Now what's wrong?" She asked quietly.
"I wish more women were like you."
Joy bit down on her lip, "What do you mean?"
"You're just- extremely intelligent, so insightful, and just amazing. You have something about you that makes everyone like you, and it's extremely inspiring. Your smile is infectious, and you laugh is the best medicine." James said truthfully. "You're one of a kind, Joy."
Joy smiled, and couldn't help but blush. "Thank you."
"No. Thank you. I don't know what I'd do without you these past few years. You made me a better person."
Joy chuckled, "Are you quoting Nathan?"
James rolled his eyes, "No, I'm being serious!"
"Well what about Eve? She's a model!"
James laughed softly, "Yeah, but we don't have conversations like this. With Eve, it's mostly just parties. I like that, but I'm also pretty laid-back. I wouldn't mind just going to the beach and relaxing all day, but she never wants to."
"Well does she put work into the relationship, or is it mostly just you?"
"It's mainly me. Sometimes I don't even know why I still fight for it. And she's always flirting with other guys right in front of my face!" He revealed with a hint of anger in his voice.
"Can I tell you something?" Joy asked.
"Of course."
"You can do a lot better."
James shrugged, "I guess... I just want someone like you."
Joy's heart rate started to pound. "Someone like me?"
Before James had a chance to answer, he felt his phone vibrating in his pocket. He glanced down and groaned. "Speak of the devil..."
Joy smiled, "Answer it."
James ran a hand over his hair, and clicked the button the answer. "Hello?" He answered.
Joy sat across from him and took the time to check him out. James was a few years younger than him, but not by much. She wasn't going to lie that she was extremely lucky he had been casted as her television husband. She got to look at him and his gorgeous body, so who could complain about that? He definitely got more mature since the last time she was with him. He also got more muscular, and he started to grow out his hair, which she felt was a good look for him. Especially the five o'clock shadow.
"Yeah, my plane landed about an hour ago-" James continued to talk into the phone. "I know, I'm sorry I should have called you sooner. I thought you were asleep... Right now?... I'm at a cafe... with who?... Joy, actually... No, Stewart ditched me... relax, we're just catching up... I know, Eve... I know... No... Yes... Eve you're being ridiculous... I don't care... No, I'm not... I'm not doing that Eve... She's my best friend... You know what? I'm not having this conversation with you right now... I'm tried of this!... Whatever... Are you serious?... Is this because I'm at a cafe with her?... Fine!... I don't care anymore Eve! I'm done with this bull shit!... if that's what you want fine but don't call me tomorrow and expect that I'll take you back because this is it... Are you drunk?... Call me later... Are you seriously breaking up with me over the phone?... Okay... yeah... I gotta go... no... I'm being serious. If this is over don't call me anymore... Yea and while you're at it, go have another one night stand like you did the last time we broke up... Bye."
James quickly hung up and threw his phone across the table, as he slammed his fist on the table.
"Dammit!" He screamed.
Joy looked up from digging in her purse, and frowned. "What happened? Is everything ok?" She rushed out.
James inhaled deeply, "I don't even know what just happened. I think we just broke up-"
"Oh James, I'm so sorry..."
"It's fine." James cut her off. "It's for the better, right?"
"Is it because I'm here with you? I know she never liked me-"
James laughed, "She was just jealous because I have more chemistry with you than her."
"Funny. That's what Mike said about us too." Joy revealed.
James smiled, "Everyone says it."
"You know, I always was in denial about it, but honestly, I think everyone's right, We just have a natural chemistry, and I can't help it." Joy said in a shy voice.
"I know. I denied it for a while too. Especially when I knew you were married. I literally had to remind myself that we were just acting and everything was fake." James gushed.
Joy smiled, "You had to remind yourself?"
"Yeah, I mean you're kind of easy to fall for..."
Joy flipped her hair over her shoulder, "Well thank you."
James rolled his eyes, "Don't let it get to your head, super star."
Joy crinkled her nose and laughed. "Shouldn't you be upset that your girlfriend just broke up with you? I feel like it's my fault-"
"Honestly... I feel like a weight has been lifted off of my shoulders. I've held a lot of things in throughout my life, and I'm tired of doing that. If I want something I'm going to go after it."
Joy smiled, "That's the attitude to have! Good for you!"
"I just really hope she doesn't come crawling back to me saying she wants to get back together, because I'm really done with it."
"Just sing her that Taylor Swift song: We are never getting back together.. like ever."
James chuckled, "You're such a freak!"
"But you still love me anyway right?" Joy said as she batted her eyelashes.
"You have no idea..." James muttered under his breath, but luckily Joy didn't hear him because she was in the middle of typing something on her phone.
"Would it be okay if I tweeted about you?" She asked with a sparkle in her eye.
"Sure. What are you going to say?"
"I don't know, maybe something like, "Good to catch up with an old friend #ParisStyle"
"Alright. I like it." He laughed.
She typed it on her phone, and immediately she had six favorites and thirteen replied.
"Damn, you're popular." James pointed out.
"I love reading what people write. They're so funny."
"They're probably like, "Oh em gee, Joy! I love you so much like oh my god, you're flawless!" James said with a coy smile.
Joy rolled her eyes,
"I'm serious." He said and grabbed her phone, "Look someone named "NaleyKramerFan" tweeted, 'You're perfect! I wish I was in Paris and could meet you. You're my role model!"
Joy smiled, "Aw. That was sweet."
"Should we reply to her?"
"Yeah. That would be nice."
"Okay I'll say, 'Maybe one day we can meet! xox' I bet it will make her day!" James pointed out.
Joy flashed her pearly white teeth, "Aw you're such a nice guy."
James shrugged, and smiled, but he then frowned when he saw a tweet pop up. "Uh oh."
"What?"
"Eve just tweeted, 'Good Luck and Good Riddance... #I-Hit-It-First'" James said sadly.
"I'm sorry James."
"It's alright. I'm stil in shock honestly."
"You'll be okay." Joy promised.
James took a long swig of his coffee, and continued to look at the tweets on Joy's phone.
"That girl we just tweeted said 'Oh my god, I can't believe you just tweeted me! I love you so much!"
"Aw. We have the best fans." Joy smiled widely.
James kept scrolling through her twitter feed and laughed.
"What?" She asked.
"Someone just asked if I was the one you were with."
"What'd they say?"
James smiled, " LucyLove123 said Oh my gosh! I'm praying you're with James! My dreams may be coming true!"
Joy laughed, "People really like us."
"Well I mean how can they not? Naley is the best." James said with a cheeky smile.
"Obviously." Joy giggled.
"Hey, I have an idea." He smirked.
"Uh oh. What's that?"
"Do you want to get the fans really excited?"
"It depends. What are you going to do?" Joy asked.
"I'm going to tweet #NaleyReunion and take a picture of us. It will get them going crazy!"
"You think that's a good idea?" Joy asked.
"Yeah, why not?"
"I don't know. What if people start speculating things.. especially because you and Eve broke up like three minutes ago..."
James smiled, "Let them think what they want." He shrugged.
"Alright. Let's do it." Joy smiled, and James got up to sit in the booth next to her.
"Okay, smile!" James advised, and held out his iPhone in front of them. He put his arm around her and flashed his dazzling smile. "3...2...1.." He counted, and then clicked the camera button, A few seconds later he clicked on the picture and showed it to Joy.
"Aw! This is cute!" She gushed.
"Tweet it?"
"If you dare." She laughed,
"Alright, I'm going to say 'Catching up with the beautiful BethanyJoyLenz in PARIS! #FWTP #NaleyReunion'" He smiled, and typed eagerly on his phone.
"That's sweet! I'll retweet it."
"I'm sure we're going to put a punch of teenage girls in cardiac arrest." He laughed.
"Imagine we told them we were dating..." Joy said before thinking.
James blushed and quickly took his coffee cup and drank from it. He didn't know how to respond to that, so he just laughed.
"Do you think your boyfriend will be mad?" James asked tenaciously as he clicked the blue 'tweet' button.
Joy furrowed her eyebrows, "You mean Wes-?" She asked, and before James could answer, and bunch of fans came running over to them,
"Oh my gosh! Are you James and Bethany from One Tree Hill?" A blonde hair girl asked.
James looked over at Bethany and smiled. "Yeah we are. Are you guys fans?" He asked the girls who looked like they would pass out.
"Oh my gosh! Yes! I love you! You guys are so adorable!"
Joy and James both laughed, "Thank you."
"Are you dating in real life?" A tall black haired girl asked.
Joy bit down on her lip, and blushed a crimson red. "No, we're just friends." She said trying to not sound sad.
James let out a deep breath at the word 'friend'. He's been referred to that for almost ten years now, and for some reason he didn't really like it. He wanted to be more than that.
Wait what? I think I'm really tired. I did not just say that... She has a boyfriend, and I think me and Eve just broke up... Oh god... I think I'm still in love with Joy... Get a grip James... She's never going to like you... forget about it...
"Aw! Well I think you should!" The blonde girl gushed. "It's been my dream ever since I started watching One Tree Hill."
Joy just smiled, and James gulped hard.
"Can we get your autograph please?" The black haired girl asked shyly.
"Better yet, about a picture?" Joy proposed.
"Seriously? That'd be like amazing!"
"Sure, I'll ask the waitress to take a picture." Joy said, and huddled into a group of girls, and James had his arm around her. Her skin felt like it was on fire, and she had to remind herself that they were just friends.
The waitress finally came over, and took numerous pictured of James and Joy with their fans.
"Thank you so much!" The blonde girl gushed. "You made my life!"
"No problem." James said sweetly. "It was nice meeting you."
"You too! You guys look eve better in person!" The black haired girl gushed.
Joy and James once again laughed, and hugged their fans farewell.
"That was nice." Joy commented.
"Yeah." James said quietly.
"Are you okay?" Joy asked as she rubbed her hand up his bicep. Any excuse to touch him, she took the chance.
James felt his stomach flop like a fish out of water at the contact with Joy. "Huh?" He asked.
"You seem like your in another world. What's wrong? Is it the Eve thing?"
James smiled softly, "No, I'm really not even upset about it. It feels like we've been broke up for a while. I haven't seen her in a month."
"I'm sorry." Joy said once again, and sat back down in the booth.
"It's okay. Everything happens for a reason right?"
"Right. That's the attitude to have." Joy said positively.
James glanced down at his phone and smiled.
"What?" Joy asked taking another sip of her tea.
"I got two thousand retweets, and 1,246 replies on our tweet." He said in a shocked voice.
Joy laughed, "What are people saying?"
"They're mostly asking if we're dating and if we aren't that we should."
Joy blushed, "Everyone wants a real life Naley I guess."
James laughed softly, and proceeded to read the comments. "Look someone said that they're crying because they'r so happy."
"You were right. Everyone is going crazy." Joy chuckled.
"I'd do anything for the fans. I would't be here if it weren't for them." James said seriously.
"I know. We've come a long way, but I wouldn't change anything for the world."
"Neither would I." James said as his voice cracked.
Joy and James starred at one another for what felt like centuries, and in that moment- a small French cafe, on a Wednesday night, a table right by the window, where they can see the Efile tower- something happened. It was in explainable, but it was like they were the only two people in the world, The city of Paris- otherwise known as the city of Love- seemed as though it had cast a magical spell on them.
"Do you want to go for a walk?" Joy suddenly asked.
James was broken out of his trance and blinked. "Okay, let me just pay the bill-"
"James, you don't have to do that." Joy said.
"I want to." James smiled, and Joy felt her insides melt.
"Okay, if you insist." She said in a weak voice.
James pulled out his wallet, and slapped the French money he converted earlier onto the table.
He swiftly stood up and pulled on his jacket and baseball hat.
Joy also slid her arms into her black pea coat and quickly buttoned it.
"You ready?" James asked and stuck out his arm for her to intertwine hers in.
"Yeah, thanks for paying."
"No problem." James replied casually, and held the door open for Joy and made it out onto the streets of Paris.
"It's truly beautiful here." Joy said breathlessly as she let the cold October night air hit her cheeks.
"It sure is." James said as he looked into her welcoming brown eyes.
Joy's heart rate pounded furiously against her chest, and her stomach got that feeling again. For some reason she didn't think it was because she was hungry.
I think I have butterflies...
"Have you ever been to the Efile tower?" Joy asked.
"No, but I've always wanted to go." James revealed.
"Well then what are we waiting for?" Joy chuckled, and led him to the bright tower of lights and beautiful architecture.
Joy and James looked up in amazement and blissful smiles spread over their faces.
"Wow." James breathed.
"It's so amazing isn't it?" Joy gushed.
"Can you take a picture of me standing in front, please?" James asked.
"Sure. You always take such nice photo's! They're always popping up on my instagram."
James smirked, "Thanks, but it's the magic of photo editing."
Joy clicked rapidly on the shutter button and James smiled.
"All set!" Joy said and handed him his phone. "Do you mind if we take a picture together? I mean I kind of want to post one of this so called 'Naley Reunion'." Joy revealed witha coy smile.
"Sure, should I ask one of those security guards to take it?"
"Yes please!" Joy answered, and James made his way to a guard and handed the muscular french man her phone.
"Can you take a picture of me and my friend please?" James asked, and the man seemed to understand and nod.
"Thanks." James smiled, and ran back to Joy and hugged her.
"What are you doing?" Joy laughed wildly.
"Posing for the picture." James said and squeezed her gently.
Joy blushed, and blew a kiss at the camera.
The man took the picture, and games put up his index finger to signal that he wanted one more.
He then leaned down and placed a light kiss on Joy's cheek. The man smiled and took another picture. Joy felt her cheek was on fire, and her heart sped up faster than it ever had.
James pulled away and ran to retreat the phone. "Thanks." He said appreciatively, and went back to Joy to show her the picture.
"I like this one the best." He said to the one referring to the kiss on the cheek.
"Me too." Joy blushed, and lokoed up at James who was starring at her. Her stomach flipped once again.
"Did I tell you how beautiful you look?" James whispered.
Joy blushed and looked away from his fierce blue eyes. "No..."
"Well it's true. You're so beautiful Joy, and I just want you to know how lucky and fortunate I am that I have got to work with you for the past ten years. You're amazing, and I wouldn't want to be anyone else's Nathan... if that makes sense." He said in a nervous voice.
Joy blushed and wrapped her arms around James for a warm hug. She rested her head against his muscular chest. "You're the sweetest! Thank you so much" Joy whispered and squeezed him more.
James ran his hand up and down her back and sighed deeply. "I'm serious Joy. You changed my life, and I care so much about you."
She could feel his heart beating rapidly against his chest, and pulled away to look up at him. Joy looked up and starred into his crystal blue eyes.. Her palms started to get sweaty and she felt like she couldn't breathe. She didn't want to deny it anymore, but she could feel herself falling for him. "I care about you too." Joy revealed.
James sighed, "No, I mean I've always cared about you. I guess what I'm trying to say is..I need to tell you something." He said as his voice cracked, "But I don't know how you're going to take it, and I don't really know what to say."
"What's going on?" She asked nervously.
James took a shaky breath, and placed his hand on Joy's cheek. "When I was eighteen, I had the biggest crush on you." He said and laughed nervously.
Joy furrowed her brows, and smiled softly. "You did?"
"Oh yeah. It was really bad." James blushed, "I told you, I really couldn't control myself. I'm not usually that shy, but when I was around you I just.. I didn't want to say anything because I was afraid that I would just start rambling on about how much I like you. I tried not to like you, and I reminded myself that we were just friends, and co-workers and none of the feelings are real, but I came to the point where I couldn't deny it anymore. Every time I was around you I just froze. You made me so nervous. You were so beautiful, smart, kind, and outgoing. But the thing was that you were always older than me. I know you always called me 'Baby James' and I pretended not to care, but it would always get me upset because it was another reminder that we would never be together. And then when you started dating Michael, I had to tell myself I really needed to push whatever I was feeling, away. I didn't want to be that selfish guy who ruined everything all because I had a crush on you. Anyway, I would always love shooting the kissing scenes with you because even though it was just part of the job, it always meant something to me. I know you always said it was 'Haley' kissing 'Nathan' but sometimes I couldn't help myself, and I would be James kissing Joy. I wanted to keep kissing you after they called cut, but I had to stop because I knew I would ruin everything if I did that. So going to work and acting with you was always the best, because that would be the best I would ever get. if the only way I got to kiss you was pretending to be Nathan, then that's what I would have to do. It's a really good thing I'm an actor because I really had to pretend I never felt anything for you. I also had to act like I was happy for you and Michael, but the whole time I was wishing I was him. When you got married, I knew that was the end of it. I would never be the guy to break someone up, so I just started to meet other girls, and try to ignore everything I've ever felt for you. I always tried to convince myself the feelings were just from being caught up in the moment but I knew deep down it was you I wanted. Not Haley. I tried to find someone like you, but it's impossible, so eventually I just settled for the first girl who showed interest in me, and I knew I had to get over you. But while I had other girlfriends, I always felt like I was cheating on them, because the feelings never really dissipated. So what I'm trying to say is that I really, really, really like you Joy. Like, a lot." James finished with a deep breath, and noticed that Joy had a small tear slowly rolling down her cheek.
He took another deep breath, and wiped the tear away. "I'm sorry... I've been holding that in for ten years and I just really needed to tell you. I hope this doesn't change anything, because I really need you in my life." He said breathlessly.
Joy was honestly speechless. She never knew James felt that way. After the initial shock had wore off, she did something she never had expected to do. She jumped up, and kissed him. It was different this time, She could feel it the moment her lips touched his. There was no holding back. She eagerly pushed her tongue against his lips and he granted her entry immediately. She wrapped her arms around his neck, and pulled him closer to her.
James was completely in shock. He had no idea Joy would kiss him- not that he was complaining or anything, but he sure as hell did not expect that reaction. If anything, he would have thought she would slap him or something.
He was in a complete daze. He had wanted this for such a long time. They very rarely used tongue during their kisses during filming, so this was definitely a gift from God. Joy was such an amazing kisser. He would kiss her forever if he could. The kiss was extremely passionate, and he felt it right down to his toes.
Sparks were flying between them like fourth of July fireworks. Joy couldn't remember the last time she felt this happy. She had often longed to Kiss James again- especially after the last rain kiss that they filmed.
James smiled against Joy's lips.
I've wanted this for so long...I can't believe this is actually happening! James thought.
She was getting even more into it, until James expectantly pulled away.
Joy cocked her head in confusion, "What's wrong?" She asked sadly.
"You have a boyfriend! Oh my god! We shouldn't have just done that! God! I'm so stupid!" James rushed out.
Joy just simply smiled, and let out a small laugh.
"Joy! How can you be laughing? You- We- Oh god- we just kissed! You kissed me and you have a boyfriend!" James said breathlessly, and felt like he was going to pass out.
"James, relax." Joy said calmly. "I don't have a boyfriend."
James sighed in relief, "But what about that guy Wes? I always see you with him..." He said sadly.
Joy smiled, "Wes is my best friend."
James scowled, "Well I hate him."
Joy giggled, "Are you jealous?"
"I mean.. maybe a little." James shrugged offhandedly.
"Well you have nothing to worry about because we only pretended to date." Joy said. "We both needed publicity, and actually he.. um.. plays for the other team if you know what I mean."
"Wait?" James smirked, "Are you serious?"
"Yea." Joy nodded, "I agreed to 'date' him because he wasn't ready to 'come out' yet."
James smiled, and suddenly laughed wildly. He then picked up Joy and spun her around. "You have no idea how happy that just made me." He said and pulled her face closer to his and kissed her passionately.
Joy wrapped her legs around his waist, and didn't care who was watching or taking pictures. She always knew deep down that James was the one for her. She had never felt more alive then she did at this moment.
After sharing a heated yet extremely passionate kiss, Joy jumped down from James, and held onto his shoulders for support. She felt her knees would give out any second.
"Just so you know.." Joy started, "I have a serious crush on you too." She winked.
"You do?" James asked with a dopey smile.
"I've always tried to deny my feelings for you, but once I got a divorce, I realized that I was holding back in my marriage because I always felt something towards you."
"Are you serious?" James asked.
Joy nodded, and grinned widely. "You, James Lafferty, are absolutely perfect."
"So what does this mean?" James asked.
"Well.. I was hoping we could be a real life Naley." Joy winked and smiled flirtatiously.
James smiled, and leaned in for another passionate kiss. "This is the best day of my life." He screamed, and Joy laughed humorously.
"I can't believe you always felt that way." Joy admonished.
"I thought it was obvious." James smiled, "But what I can't believe is that you have feelings for me.. I never thought you would."
"How could I not? You're incredibly sexy,kind, smart, funny, and one hell of a kisser." Joy laughed against his lips.
"God, I should have told you a while ago."
"No, this is perfect. We're in Paris. It's so romantic." Joy gushed happily.
James smiled, and pushed a dirty blonde girl behind her ear. "I've wanted this forever."
"I can't believe I've been missing out on you for all these years." Joy stated with a smile. "Everything I've ever wanted had been right in front of me all along."
James smiled and kissed her fiercely.
As if it were a movie, a small drop of condensation fell from the clouds above.
James laughed at how perfect this was. It was a dream... better than a dream, actually.
"Is it raining?" Joy asked.
"Of course it is." James laughed.
Joy threw her head back, and laughed happily. She had her arms around Jame's neck and spun around in a circle.
"This is actually perfect." Joy gushed. "Ever since I was a little girl I always wanted some amazing love story like this.. especially in Paris."
James smiled, "Well I can be your prince charming."
Joy laughed. "You're so cheesy."
"Well I have a feeling we're going to be a really cheesy couple." He flirted.
Joy rolled her eyes, "You better not be quoting Naley lines."
James smirked, "Don't worry, I have my own lines."
The rain started to fall faster, and both Joy and James were getting soaked.
Joy felt like a teenager all over again. She wrapped her arms tightly around James, and pressed a sweet kiss on his soft lips.
"I guess rain is 'our thing'" James whispered.
Joy nodded against his lips, and ran her hand through his wet hair.
"I'm team Jethany all the way." Joy whispered softly.
"Me too." James agreed with a smirk.
The couple stood in front of the glow of the Efile tower, and stood in the pouring rain as they shared a long, fiery kiss. Together they shared ten years of pent up feelings and poured it into the kiss.
"I love you, Joy. I've been in love with you for ten years." James whispered.
Joy pulled away and smiled, she looked at him with wide eyes. "I love you, too."
He then crashed his lips against hers.
Forget about Naley, this was real.
This was perfect.
This was sweeter than fiction.
There you stand, ten feet tall Just a shot, just a shot in the dark (oh, oh) What a sight, what a sight when the light came on There you stand, ten feet tall There you stand, next to me I'll be one of the many saying I'll be one of the many saying And when they call your name
I will say, "I knew it all along"
Your eyes are wider than distance
This life is sweeter than fiction
All you got, all you got are your shattered hopes
They never saw it coming
You hit the ground running
And now you're on to something
I, I, I say
Put me right, threw me right when you put them front
And in this perfect weather
It's like we don't remember
The rain we thought would last forever and ever
I will say, "I knew it all along"
Your eyes are wider than distance
This life is sweeter than fiction
All at once, the rest is history
Your eyes are wider than distance
This life is sweeter than fiction, fiction
Look at you now, look at you now, now
I'll be one of the many saying
You've made us proud, you've made us proud
Look at you now, look at you now, now
I'll be one of the many saying
You've made us proud, you've made us proud, proud
And they put your picture in a frame
You know that I'll be there time and again
'Cause I you loved when
I have an idea for an 'epilogue' but I won't post it unless you guys really want me to. I'm super busy and barely have time, plus I need to finish 'I never told you' and work on 'Give Your Heart a Break' but if you really enjoyed this then I will post the second part. I don't want to because I'm scared of the reaction to this one, and plus I'm not sure if people will even read this so I don't want to waste my time.
Anyway, those of you who did like it, let me know.
And if any of you were at the One Tree Hill Convention in Paris, I'm soooo jealous of you, but I hope you had an amazing time :)