This is something I was asked to write to help save our beloved Brucas. It's supposed to be a one shot, but it turned out to be really long so I decided to post it as a three part story.lol I hope you enjoy and everyone should do whatever they can to help save OUR couple. Go to s a v e b r u c a s . c o m for details. Just take out the spaces. Anyways on with the story. Flashbacks are in italics.
Only In Tree Hill
Part I
Lucas quickly stepped in front of the elevator and pressed the button to go up. He anxiously pressed the same button over and over again as if it would somehow make the elevator come to him sooner. He'd just had a really great meeting with his publisher and couldn't wait to share what they'd discussed. He wasn't sure what he was going to do about the offer yet and really needed help deciding what was the best choice of action. Only one persons opinion mattered to him. Only she could help him decide what to do.
He quickly stepped into the elevator once the elegant shiny doors opened in front of him. He quickly pressed the button for the sixteenth floor, the one that would lead him to his illustrious penthouse. The one he shared with the love of his life. As he waited for the elevator to take him to his destination he prayed she'd be home. He wasn't sure how long he could hold this in. Never in a million years had he thought this offer would come. Not for a guy who had basically grown up with nothing, but an ability to play a game he loved. One he could no longer play if he wanted to live a full and healthy life. Writing had always been enjoyable to him, but it was always second choice to basketball.
The ding of the doors opening brought Lucas out of his thoughts as he made his way to the penthouse. He threw his keys in the dish on the cherry wood table by the door. They hit the other set of keys that always accompanied his.
She was home.
Good.
"Hey Babe."said Lucas as he walked through the living room taking in the beautiful brunette sitting in front of the computer.
"Boyfriend, hi."smiled Brooke as she quickly hit the conformation button before turning to look at him."You're back sooner than I expected. Did everything go okay? She isn't riding you again about your second book, is she?"she asked with a frown. Things with Lucas and his publisher had been a bit tense lately. She wanted Lucas to come up with concepts and ideas for his second book, one she was sure was going to be a best seller a his first one was, but right now Lucas had nothing. She knew this was hard on him, but it didn't worry Brooke one bit. She knew everything would come to Lucas when it was meant to. It always had before.
Lucas shook his head and smiled."No, for once I didn't get chewed out."he let out a chuckle before continuing."She actually had some really good news for me. Care to hear what it is?"questioned Lucas breezily.
"You know I do Gorgeous, but after your news I have some of my own to share."she beamed. It was about that time and she just hoped that he'd be as thrilled about this as she was. It was after all his idea all those years ago.
"Sounds good."he let out as he made his way across the room to her. He smiled when Brooke leaned forward and puckered her lips signaling she wanted a kiss from him. Lucas was happy to oblige. He leaned over and placed a gentle kiss upon her strawberry flavored lips. Once he pulled away he leaned back onto the couch and took in all her beauty. It still sometimes amazed him that they were together. That they were living together and were happier than they'd ever been before. There were times when he thought this wasn't even an option. Times when they couldn't have been further away from each other...
Lucas placed both his hands in his pockets as he walked along side Brooke up the path toward Rachel's house. Things with them weren't exactly crystal clear and it was the end of their date and he wasn't sure what he was supposed to do now. He stood awkwardly at the entrance and waited for her to say something, anything that would give him piece of mind.
Brooke clasped her hands in front of her and gave Lucas a tight smile. She couldn't believe that she was about to do this. Say something that wasn't true. Something that would cut all her ties with Lucas once and for all. But here she was about to do just that.
Why?
Because this was what Peyton said she needed. And no matter what she said her best friends happiness still mattered to her. The boy in front of her still mattered to her. It was clear that he and Peyton belonged together so she was going to do the noble thing and finally step aside for good. The triangle from hell would officially be over."Lucas don't hate me okay, but I think that this was a mistake."she murmured looking down at her hands.
Lucas took a deep breath. He hadn't been expecting to hear Brooke say that but a piece of him was relieved. Tonight had been great being with her and not having any of the fighting or snide comments, but at the same time it had been really awkward. He'd spent the past few weeks trying to get over her and get used to life without her in it and right now he was at a point where he was okay that they were no longer together. The last thing he wanted was to fall back into a relationship with her to once again have her decide she didn't want to be with him. There wasn't any way he could take that all over again. It would be too hard. Now here she was giving him a way out of that heartache and as much as he loved being with her he was going to take it."So do I."he let out with a nod.
Brooke let out a breath she wasn't even aware she was holding. She thanked whoever it was up there that Lucas wasn't going to make this any harder on her than it already was. With a nod of her own she spoke."You do."it was more of a statement than a question, but she knew Lucas would feel the need to explain.
"I...I...I missed you so much when you broke up with me Brooke."he explained as he shook his head. He couldn't miss the smile that appeared on her face at his comment."I mean I spent everyday hoping that maybe we'd get back together...but."he continued looking down not sure he could look in her eyes at this point."Listening to Whitey describe his life with Camila I just realized..."he trailed off with a slight shrug. He couldn't bring himself to say the rest. It was too hard when not long ago he wanted to love her like that.
"That he wasn't describing us."chimed in Brooke deciding she should help Lucas see that she understood what he was getting at.
Lucas finally looked up to her and gave her a sad smile as he nodded in agreement with what she'd just said. Saying all this was so hard for him, but it was something that had to be done. It wasn't right that they always ended up hurting each other.
Brooke took a deep breath and gave Lucas as big a smile as she could muster up."Do you think that even exists any more?"she asked in hopes that he'd give her the answer she longed to hear. One that might give her hope.
"What?"asked Lucas wanting her to elaborate so he'd be able to give her as best an answer as he had.
"A love so strong that no person can come between it."she explained. In all honesty with everything she had gone through she didn't believe a love like that really existed, but maybe it was just her. Maybe Lucas could help her see that maybe just maybe with the right person it could exist.
With a light chuckle and a shrug Lucas spoke."I sure hope so."he said in all honesty. The way Whitey talked about his love for Camila, it seemed so powerful. It was something that he longed to have someday.
Brooke smiled and nodded at his words."Yeah."she shrugged."I guess we'll just have to wait and see."she let out hopeful. And she meant that in a way she was sure Lucas wouldn't catch. Maybe with time and maturity they would find out that it actually was possibly to feel that strongly about another person.
Lucas once again nodded not sure what else he should do. It was true. All they could do was wait and see if true love would in fact find them.
Looking around Brooke decided to ask the question that had been on her mind for a while now."So where does this leave us?"she was unsure of the answer and not sure she wanted an actual answer. Defining her relationship with Lucas was always a hard and tricky task.
With his eyes narrowed playfully Lucas asked."Friends?"as he held out his hand for her to shake. It seemed a little awkward to be wanting to shake her hand after everything they had been through, but with them no longer together what else was there?
Brooke gave him a wide and playful smile. Lucas held out his hand for her. After everything they had done, a hand shake seemed somewhat awkward. But maybe handshakes were what friends did. She herself never did them, but then again she and Lucas were never conventional. In fact the last time they decided to be friends they ended up falling in love with each other. That was something she couldn't let happen again though. So she held out her hand and took his in hers and shook it."Friends." she repeated with a smile before she felt Lucas pull her to him. His hand found their familiar place on the back of her head, his way of always pulling her that much closer to him.
She felt him smile into her hair which caused a warm sensation to coarse through her bringing out a smile of her own. Brooke found herself holding on to Lucas' waist a little longer than she should have once they pulled apart. It was something that happened involuntarily. A habit that she would have to break. Not that she'd be hugging Lucas anymore.
He walked away from her after the hug. He had to. If not then he might just cave and take back all that he said. When he turned around one last time he watched as she gave him a friendly wave. That was it.
They were officially over.
That same night he went to see Peyton and she let him know that she was in love with him. It wasn't long after that they they became a couple and being with Brooke was what he felt was no longer an option. Thinking back to that time and and all the other times he and Brooke fought being together saddened him. He had no idea why they let their stupidity get in their way of their happiness.
Brooke rolled her eyes as Lucas appeared deep in thought and not at all in any rush to tell her his news."Well what's this news of yours?"she asked impatiently. The look on Lucas' face when he walked in was one of excitement and that had her curious as to what his publisher had to say. Seeing Lucas happy always brought a smile to her face.
Lucas once again smiled at her enthusiasm. There was no need to dwell on the past. It was exactly that. The past. He was with Brooke now and there was no way he was going to let her slip away again.
The fact that she was so interested in what was going on with him let him know that she was the one for him. This was a huge deal for him and he couldn't wait to share it with her. She'd be just as excited about this as he was."Well, when I walked into Lindsey's office I was fully prepared for her to jump down my throat, but instead she asked me what I thought about turning An Unkindness Of Ravens into a movie."he all about shouted the news to her.
Brooke's eyes widened."What?"she asked in excitement.
A movie?
"Yeah. Apparently some big shot movie producer wants to turn it into a movie. Can you believe it? Someone wants to turn my...my book into a movie. How freaking unbelievable is that?"beamed Lucas as he began to pace excitedly in front of Brooke.
"Lucas that is amazing."smiled Brooke as she got up from her chair and went to give her boyfriend a hug. After a few second she pulled away slightly to look into his eyes."I am so proud of you Luke. I can't believe this. What did you tell her?"asked Brooke as she grabbed a hold of Lucas' hand and pulled him over to sit with her on the love seat.
"I told her I had to think about it first. I want to do this B, but I don't know if I should. I don't want the book to lose any of its essence. I don't want Hollywood to spin us all into something we're not. That tends to happen with things like this. I feel to strongly about everyone to have it all ruined by a director trying to make a quick buck."he finished shaking his head. That was what was eating him up inside. Having your book turned into a movie was a huge accomplishment, but he was willing to live without it if it meant compromising himself and everyone involved in the book. It was his life and the people he loved lives and he felt very protective about that. He'd even refused to make the changes his publisher asked him to make. It would make the book more interesting he was told, but the answer was always no. He was not willing to change anything for the sole purpose of making money. In the end everyone decided the book was golden as is and it was soon published after.
Brooke slowly nodded in understanding."I know what you mean and if these are your concerns then tell them about them. Don't keep quiet. This is your book baby, you have the say in what gets filmed. If you don't like it then say you don't. If you don't want to do this then don't. Do what makes you happy. Whatever you decide I'm with you one hundred percent and that you can count on."she smiled at him.
Sighing Lucas pulled Brooke into his lap and wrapped his arms around her."Thanks babe. You always know what to say to make me feel better."he said as he kissed the top of her head and pulled her to him tighter. Having Brooke in his arms always made everything better.
Brooke shrugged."That's a perk you get when being with me."she smiled intently.
Lucas let out a small laugh."Don't I know it."he rested his head on her shoulder.
Brooke slowly turned her body to face him and wrapped her arms around his neck. She leaned forward and captured Lucas' lips in a searing kiss. It was times like this that she loved the most about their life together. Just sitting down together talking about what was going on in each others lives. She loved feeling a part of something special. Lucas always made her feel important and she loved him for that.
Lucas parted his lips as he felt Brooke deepening the kiss. This girl in his arms meant everything to him. To this day he couldn't believe he'd gotten through his life for even a second without her by his side. Those were the times he liked to pretend didn't exist. Times when their stupidity got the best of them.
He let out a content sigh as Brooke pulled away to catch her breath. With her forehead against his he smiled at her."So what was your news?"he asked once he remembered she had something to tell him as well.
Brooke beamed as she too remembered what she had to tell him."Okay."she said as she pulled away and clasped her hands together."You know what next Thursday is right?"she questioned already knowing the answer.
He would have no clue.
Lucas' heart began to beat rapidly. She always asked that question when there was something of major importance going on. He tried to think of what next Thursday could be, but for the life of him he was coming up empty."Um...you know I love you right?"he asked innocently adding a kiss for good measure."I'm gonna try the honesty card you love so much and say I really don't know what Thursday is, but whatever anniversary it is of ours I will make it even more special since I forgot."he finished timidly. He was so screwed it wasn't even funny. There was no way that Brooke would take that answer without chewing him out first. Then when that was over and done with she'd take his promise to make it special and make sure he followed through.
He knew her so well.
Brooke rolled her eyes at him. Of course he would assume it was an anniversary of theirs."I'm gonna let this side for the time being and assume that you are going go research all of our firsts together so that when an actual anniversary of our does come up you will know."she let out only half serious. Lucas was such a guy sometimes.
Lucas looked at her with narrowed brows."Well if that isn't it then what is it?"he asked now a little curious himself. Maybe it had something to do with her boutique.
"I swear sometimes I think I'm dating the Tim."she giggled referring to their one time clueless friend."Four years ago next Thursday we all became adults and graduated."she smiled at the memory of that wonderful day.
It was Lucas' turn to roll his eyes."I'm pretty sure we were all adults before that."he laughed heartedly.
Brooke shook her head adamantly."No, we might have all acted like adults, but that day made it official. For some more than others."she smirked remembering what she and Chase shared that night. That was a pretty special night for the both of them. She shook her head of all thoughts of her ex boyfriend. She was with Lucas now and he was the only one that mattered. It was just a shame they hadn't ended their high school careers together.
Lucas thought about questioning what she meant by her comment, but decided it was probably best to leave things alone seeing how he was pretty sure he knew what she was getting at."So I take it you want to go back to Tree Hill."he concluded remembering the pact they made years ago.
Brooke nodded."That I do. I think it will be fun to see everyone again. I mean when was the last time we saw Haley and Nathan? Not to mention Mouth and everyone else."she smiled.
"Do you honestly think anyone is going to come back just because we said so four years ago?"he questioned seriously. He really didn't think anyone would show. It would go down as one of those things people say but never actually follow through with.
"Actually I do. I mean if I'm here thinking about it why wouldn't everyone else?"She couldn't be the only one that kept this in mind.
"Maybe because your the crazy one in our group of misfits."laughed Lucas. He himself had forgotten about the reunion so what were the odds that he was the only one?
"I am not crazy. You better take that back Lucas Scott."said Brooke sternly as she got her pinchers ready.
Lucas let out a laugh as he grabbed a hold of both her hands in order to keep her away from him."Okay, I'm sorry. You're not crazy. I'm just not sure about this."he finished releasing her once he was sure she wasn't going to hurt him.
Brooke placed her hands at her side."I doubt I'm the only one that remembered. And I really wanna go. I mean even if no one shows we'll still have fun. We can go visit your mom and Lily and Naley and James."she grinned. Just the thought of going home made her a bit home sick. If all she got to see was them then it would be just fine with her.
"Brooke..."started Lucas. He actually didn't mind going back to Tree Hill. He just wasn't sure everyone felt the same and this seemed important to Brooke and the last thing he wanted was for her to get her hopes up that everyone would come only to be disappointed if no one showed. He was sure that they'd get Nathan and Haley to go though.
"No, it really doesn't matter if you want to go or not. You're going and that's all to it." she let out pointedly."Besides I just bought us non refundable tickets."she added.
Lucas shook his head."You're unbelievable Brooke. You're lucky I love you so much."he chuckled as he pulled her to him once again.
"No, you've got that all wrong. You're the one lucky I love you."she smiled as she rested her head on Lucas' chest.
"That I am."let out Lucas seriously."That I am."he repeated.
Brooke sat there in Lucas' lap for a while just taking in the feel of Lucas' arms around her. It was something she caught herself doing a lot. It was as if she wanted to remember every single feeling in case this was the last time."Luke?"she asked when the silence became too much. She continued off his grunt."So who do you think will play me in the movie?"she asked with a laugh.
Brooke stepped out of the airport and took a deep breath. After everything she'd been through being back here after these past couple of years seemed somewhat overwhelming. She hadn't been in Tree Hill since...
"Nathan."cried out Brooke as she ran into the emergency room. Getting the call saying Haley had been in a car accident had been heart wrenching. The whole flight had been spent crying and wondering if her friend was going to make. Those were the worst few hours of her life.
Nathan quickly looked up once he heard his name. He made his way to Brooke and pulled her into a hug."I'm so glad you're here."he let out heavily.
Brooke nodded."Please tell me she's gonna be okay?"pleaded Brooke, who had already started crying after promising herself she wasn't going to.
Nathan nodded and smiled."She's gonna be fine. I just talked to the doctor and he said all she has are a few cracked ribs and a broken arm. She's gonna need a lot of help around the house for a while and I'll do anything I have to to make things easier on her. I'm just glad she's okay."let out Nathan relieved.
"Me too. I'm gonna stay here as long as I'm needed. If help is what Haley needs then help is what she's gonna get from me. I'm not gonna leave until I know she's completely healed."pledged Brooke.
Nathan let out a light sigh."You don't know how happy I am to hear you say that. I wasn't sure how much help I was gonna be. Haley will be so happy you're home."it was true. Haley had repeatedly told him how much she missed Brooke now that she'd moved to California. Those two girls had grown so close it was unbelievable when he thought back to Junior year. Brooke and Haley's friendship was unconventional, but it worked for them and no one was going to tell them otherwise.
"You'll do fine. I just can't leave knowing she's hurt. Is she allowed visitors?"asked Brooke quickly. She'd been dying to see Haley and until she saw her for herself she wouldn't believe anything anyone said about her friend.
"Yeah, I told her you were coming and she keeps asking for you. They moved her to the second floor, room 238. I'll take you before I go call and check on James."offered Nathan as he gently placed a hand on Brooke's back and led to an elevator.
The ride and walk to Haley's room had felt like hours. Brooke waited as Nathan knocked on the door before opening it and letting out."Guess whose here."in a sing song voice. He seemed more than relieved that his wife was going to be okay. She hurriedly walked through the open door and took her place by her friends side."Are you really gonna be okay?"she asked as she leaned in to pull the blonde in her arms, careful not to hurt her.
Haley wrapped her good arm around Brooke and smiled. It had been a while since she'd seen her and it felt good having her back home."I'm gonna be fine so don't start getting any ideas on making a sequel with my husband."joked Haley with an even bigger grin than before.
"Haley."said Brooke with a sigh.
"I'm kidding Brooke. I'm glad you're back."she finished bringing Brooke in for another hug.
"I'm glad to be back."replied Brooke as she held her friend.
That had been nearly two years ago. She hadn't been back since and it wasn't that she didn't want to it was simply because her life and Lucas' had been too busy in California. She'd finally opened up a clothing boutique, called B. Davis. Business was really good right now which meant no real free time to visit Tree Hill or anywhere else for that matter.
Then there was Lucas and with his publisher on his ass constantly about his second book and the promoting of his first, he didn't have any time either. Both their lives were hectic. It was a good day if they got to spend their lunch hour together. But as luck would have it things started calming down right around the time for their reunion. She was finally back and this time it was for a happy occasion.
"Brooke?"called Lucas, but was met with silence."Brooke."he repeated a little louder, this time knocking her out of her daze.
"What?"asked Brooke as she cleared her head.
"Where were you? I've been trying to get your attention for a while now."laughed Lucas as he pulled Brooke to him by her tiny waist.
"I'm sorry. I was just thinking about the last time I was here."she let out as she rested her head against his chest as they waited for a cab.
"Haley's accident."finished Lucas solemnly. He hated thinking about that time. He'd been so scared when Nathan called him and told him Haley had been in a car accident. His heart about stopped as he rushed to the hospital. Once he and Nathan were both told she'd be fine he'd been relieved beyond words. After seeing her and making sure for himself that she was really okay he volunteered to pick James up from the sitter and take him back to his apartment until things calmed down. He was the god father after all.
Now as much as he hated thinking about Haley in that accident he couldn't help but be a little happy that the horrible accident brought Brooke back into his life, where she'd stayed till this day. She'd come the second she heard about it just like he knew she would. That was Brooke Davis for you, dropping anything and everything for a friend in need. He couldn't help but remember the first time he saw her two years ago...
Lucas tried rocking his two year old godson to sleep, but to no avail. All James wanted to do was cry, cry, and cry some more. Lucas didn't know what to do and he was going crazy. He thought about calling Nathan or Haley, but felt that was probably not the best idea since she was in the hospital so instead he decided to suck it up and take James' crying until the poor guy decided to stop on his own.
The crying had been so loud. He hadn't even heard anyone knocking on the door until he heard a familiar laugh coming from behind him. He quickly turned around and glared at her playfully causing her to stifle her laugh."Just exactly what is it you find funny about this Pretty Girl?"yelled Lucas over the loud crying. His old nickname for her just rolled off his tongue.
Brooke walked over to him and took James from him."Watching you try to play daddy and fail miserably is what is funny."said Brooke with another fit of laughter as she began to bounce the baby up and down on her knee as she patted his back gently. His crying slowly eased up until it stopped completely leaving Brooke smiling knowingly at Lucas.
Lucas looked at Brooke in disbelief."How in the he..."he paused as he remembered the baby was in the room."Heck did you do that Brooke? I've been trying to get him to stop for a long time now and he just wouldn't."explained Lucas as he shook his head.
Brooke shrugged as if it was nothing."I guess I just have the magic touch."she smiled. It made her happy inside that she was able to get little James to quiet down. Truth be told she hadn't really kept up with her godmother duties as well as she would have liked, but it was never to late to change.
Lucas couldn't help the chuckle that escaped his lips."I always thought so."he smirked as he caught sight of the light blush that crept across Brooke's cheeks at his comment. This was so weird. It had been about two years since he'd last seen Brooke and here he was talking to her and feeling comfortable as if no time had passed at all. He loved that about them. They were always able to feel comfortable around each other.
Brooke rolled her eyes at Lucas' comment."You know I have a really good come back for that, but since there is a child in our presence I'll refrain myself, unlike some people."she spoke pointedly.
"Hey, I was just agreeing with you."explained Lucas innocently."So not that I'm complaining or anything, especially since you got James to stop crying, but what are you doing here?"
"I was with Haley and she asked me to come and check on you guys, you know make sure James was still alive and well."laughed Brooke. Haley hadn't said exactly that, but she might as well have.
Lucas shook his head feigning hurt."I can't believe the little faith Haley has in me."joked Lucas."I was doing okay, right?"he asked her hopefully.
"Um... sure. He's alive. I'd say that was a definite plus."she giggled as she looked down at a now sleeping James."Where can I put him down?"she whispered as to not wake the boy in her arms.
"My bedroom."let out Lucas as he got up and showed her the way.
Once James was successfully down and asleep they both left the room leaving the door open a crack."You don't know how happy I am that you stopped by Brooke. I mean I seriously thought he was never gonna stop crying."said Lucas honestly as he threw himself down on the couch. Only one afternoon with James and already he was out of it.
"Well I'm happy to have helped."smiled Brooke as she sat herself down on the couch.
Lucas turned to her and smiled."I'm really glad you're here Brooke. Its been way too long."
Brooke nodded shyly."I agree. Too long."
"Yeah, Haley's accident. I was so scared for her then. I was freaking out not knowing what was going on."let out Brooke honestly."I want to go see her now. I don't want to wait until tonight."stated Brooke firmly.
Lucas was knocked out of his thoughts as he heard her voice. He caught the tail end of her sentence."We talked to her earlier Brooke. You know she and Nathan are busy today, but they said they'd meet us at the Rivercourt as soon as they could."assured Lucas.
"I know."pouted Brooke."Just thinking about the last time I was here made me miss her even more. We're horrible for not visiting sooner Lucas. I know we've both been super busy, but they're family and we need to make time."finished Brooke firmly.
Lucas nodded."I agree. We can't change the past babe, but we can make sure we visit more now."he watched Brooke nod in agreement."If we do that you do know what that means right?"he questioned.
"What?"asked Brooke not sure what he was getting at. She didn't care about what she had to do as long as it ensured she'd be around more often.
"We're gonna have to tell Haley and Nathan we're together. It's been a year now and I think it's been kept a secret for long enough. I mean I understand your reasoning before, but not anymore. Things with me and Peyton have been over for almost four years. I doubt she'd have a problem with us being together now. We don't even talk to her so I don't see the big deal."he finished. He hated keeping the fact that he was with Brooke a secret. Everyone believed that he'd only moved out to California at the request of his publisher, but that wasn't the whole truth. It was because he couldn't stand the thought of not seeing her everyday. He'd also thrown in that someone should be in California with Brooke to keep an eye on her for good measure. According to Haley and everyone besides his mother they were still just friends.
It was like he said. He understood Brooke's reasoning in the beginning. If everyone knew it would only cause drama to come out of the woodworks. She just wanted them to be able to be happy without any outside influences. That and she also didn't want to hurt Peyton where ever she was. She knew first hand how hard news like this was and she wouldn't wish that on anyone, not even the very person who cause her to feel that very way.
Brooke took a deep breath."You know I love you right?"she asked. It was something they always said to each other when they were about to say something the other wasn't gonna like all that much."Because I do, but you have no clue what goes on in a girls head. We don't just forget these things."she watched as Lucas was about to object, but she quickly stopped him."I do agree with you though. People should know we're together...just not right now."she eased out slowly.
"Brooke."cut in Lucas annoyed. He loved this girl more than he thought possible, but she frustrated the hell out of him.
"Just hear me out Luke."pleaded Brooke."This day is about all of us getting together after all these years. Peyton might be here and we don't need this day over shadowed by the news of us being together again. Peyton will feel left out and trust me, I know how that feels. It's not a feeling you want to have."she explained."Once this is all over we'll tell everyone. I promise. I just want to make this trip as pleasant as possible for everyone."she let out with a small smile.
Lucas shook his head and smiled."What am I gonna do with you?"he asked as he pulled her to him once again.
"You're gonna love me forever. That's what."said Brooke as she leaned on her tip toes and placed a small kiss on Lucas' lips.
Lucas pulled her further into him."I couldn't stop even if I tried."
"We're here."said Lucas as the cab pulled out in front of the cafe.
Brooke let out a content sigh as she looked out at her high school hangout. High school was only four years ago, but with everything that had happened to her since then made it seem as if it was longer than just four years."I missed this place."whispered Brooke to herself before taking Lucas' hand and getting out of the cab.
The last time she was here was months after Haley's accident. She said she was gonna stay and help out and that was exactly what she'd done. In doing so that meant spending a lot of time with Lucas. Something she was happy to do. She and Lucas had been just friends then, though she knew in her heart that friends was the last thing she wanted to be with him. She just wasn't ready to admit it to anyone...
Lucas pushed Brooke into the cafe against her will. He had to laugh at the fight she was putting up. This girl was definitely stronger than she looked, but then again there was a lot of things about Brooke that you wouldn't be able to tell just by looking at her. Her amazing heart and loyalty to friends were just to name a few."No, Brooke come on. You said you could make the fluffiest pancakes known to man and now you have to prove it."laughed Lucas as he still pushed forward.You can't make a statement like that and not expect to have to back it up."
Brooke stopped her struggle in order to turn and give him an evil glare."I said I could, but that didn't mean I wanted to. I'm hungry Luke. I just want to eat."she pleaded which just fell upon deaf ears.
Lucas shook his head."No can do Pretty girl. This is something I have to see."he smiled.
Brooke rolled her eyes."You're such an ass Broody."she let out seriously.
Lucas let out another laugh."Don't be mad Brooke."he egged on.
Karen watched from her place in the doorway behind the counter. Those two had been spending awfully a lot of time together. It was like old times again with them it seemed. She loved the way her son smiled when Brooke entered a room. Or the way his eyes would twinkle when she told him a joke. It was the same with Brooke. Brooke would get this look of aww when Lucas would tell her a story. She always seemed so interested in what he was saying. The look in her eyes was of pure happiness. Her laughter was so hearty when Lucas would playfully tickle her or say something she thought was funny.
Those were things that only happened when they were in each others presence. It was a shame that those two didn't see what was going on with each other when it was so obvious to everyone else around."What is going on here?"she asked as she came out of admiring the two.
Lucas smiled at his mom."Hey ma. Can we use your kitchen here for a little while?"he asked still watching Brooke pout.
"I'm sorry what was that?"asked Karen confused.
"Don't listen to him Karen. Just say no and we'll be on our way."let out Brooke as she looped her arm with Lucas' and tried with all her might to push him toward the door.
Lucas pulled away from Brooke and wrapped his arms around her fully in order to try and stop her movements.
Karen just thought it was an excuse for him to hold her close without being too obvious. Though these kids didn't see that everything they did now a days was being obvious."What's going on?"she tried again.
"We were at my apartment hanging out and somehow we started talking about pancakes and Brooke said she could make the fluffiest pancakes ever and I want her to prove it. Which as you can tell she doesn't want to do."said Lucas with a laugh as Brooke continued to fight him.
Karen nodded as if she understood the kids in front of her. Twenty years old and yet they were still acting like the teenagers she'd had to put up with not that long ago."Okay, I get it now, but son why couldn't she do it at your house?"
Brooke rolled her eyes."Have you seen his apartment?"asked Brooke."There is never any real food in that house unless I buy it for him. I swear the only thing he makes sure to keep fully stocked is beer and he's not even old enough to drink it."tattled Brooke."How he buys it is beyond me."she added.
Karen nodded at the young girl."Maybe it's with the fake ID you got for him in high school."smiled Karen knowingly which caused Brooke to look down."That's right. I know all about that Brooke. Sometimes I can't believe how much of a handful you used to be."she added playfully.
"Ha ha."laughed Lucas as Brooke's little plan to get him in trouble backfired.
"I'm not done with you yet."scolded Karen."You're an adult now and you need to start acting like one."exclaimed Karen sternly."Eating the right foods is very important Lucas. Beer is not. Do you understand?"she questioned and off his nod she turned to Brooke."Now since you and Lucas are spending so much time together lately I am putting you in charge of making sure his fridge is well stocked."she told the younger brunette. She smiled as Brooke too nodded her approval."Now as for this pancake business. You both can used the over that Pete isn't using because just as my son I want to see this pancake of yours Brooke."smiled Karen.
Lucas let out a laugh as Brooke groaned."You heard her Pretty Girl. Lets go."he smiled as he pulled her toward the cafe's kitchen.
That afternoon ended with Brooke making the flattest not too great tasting pancakes that both he and Karen ate anyways as to not hurt the girls feelings, but also because there were so many. The girl could not cook to save her life, but her determination more than made up for it. Brooke refused to stop until she had the perfect one.
It never came though.
It was as if everywhere she and Lucas went it brought back a memory of them. Tree Hill had been a major part of their life.
"What is it B?"asked Lucas as he gave her hand a gentle squeeze.
Broke shrugged."Just thinking is all."she said as she looked down at their intertwined hands and quickly looked around."Do you think anyone else might already be here?"she questioned trying to pull away from Lucas' grasp.
"Uh uh, don't you dare."let out Lucas as he pulled Brooke to him fully and started planting butterfly kisses all over her face and neck.
"Lucas."laughed Brooke as she struggled to get out of his embrace."Come on, you agreed."she said sternly swatting Lucas away.
Lucas rolled his eyes at her."It's not like my mom doesn't know about us." exclaimed Lucas.
"I don't care. The last thing we need is for someone to find out accidentally."she enforced sternly.
"Fine, but first..."he trailed off as he leaned in and captured Brooke's lips in a slow kiss in hopes of changing her mind.
Brooke stopped fighting him and wrapped her arms around his neck."Why is it I always give in to you?"smiled Brooke once they broke apart.
"Because you love me."he said before pulling her to him once again. This time protesting didn't even occur to Brooke.
"I don't mean to interrupt, but I was just curious as to if you two were gonna come in any time soon."smiled Karen as she held open the cafe door.
Brooke quickly pulled away from Lucas."Hey Karen."she grinned as she walked over to Karen and pulled her into a tight hug.
"I've missed you sweetie."let out Karen as she held out an arm to pull Lucas into their hug. Lucas smiled as went to her."I've missed you both so much."she said with a sigh.
"We missed you too mom."smiled Lucas as the three of them pulled apart and he ushered them inside.
"We sure did."agreed Brooke."We've already said we were going to make it a point to come down and visit more often."added Brooke.
Karen nodded at the brunettes news."I'd like that very much. That way Lily and I wouldn't have to always go to you."she smiled.
Brook lit up at the mention of Lucas' sister. Those two had gotten awfully close as the years passed."Is Lily here by any chance?"she asked as she began to look around.
"She sure is."said Karen as she pointed to the counter where a little girl sat eating an ice cream sundae.
"Great!"shouted Brooke."I brought her another B. Davis original."exclaimed Brooke with a smile. She loved making clothes for Lily that no one else had. She wanted Lily to feel special. And what better way to feel special was having something that no other kid could possibly have.
Lucas rolled his eyes at his girlfriend."Normal people buy kids toys, but no Brooke brings Lily an expensive one of a kind outfit."laughed Lucas as he pulled his girlfriend to him and placed a small kiss on her head.
"I know, isn't it great?"exclaimed Brooke."She is the most stylish four year old out there. How cool is that?"she asked seriously.
"Lily loves the clothes Brooke."smiled Karen as she ushered them into the cafe. Brooke went straight to the little girl in question.
Lucas watched as Brooke hugged his little sister and gave her her gift. He loved how well she fit into his family. Brooke Davis was his family now.
Karen watched the two brunettes talking and laughing. Brooke was so great with Lily."She's amazing huh?"asked Karen as she took in the look on Lucas' face as he watched them as well.
Lucas nodded."Yeah. I love her so much mom."he confided honestly.
Karen nodded at her oldest child."I know you do son and I'm pretty sure she knows it too."she smiled."I'm glad you both came down to visit."she added.
"Yeah, Brooke wouldn't take no for an answer so here we are."laughed Lucas.
"Good for her. I missed you, we missed you."she said sadly. Normal conversations like this with her son were becoming few and far between.
Lucas looked down ashamed."I know and I'm sorry, but like Brooke said we're gonna come and visit more often. I promise mom."he said as he pulled his mother into a hug.
"Aww how cute is this Lilly?"asked Brooke as she walked over to them hand in hand with Lucas' little sister.
"Lucas isn't cute. He's my brother."let out Lily as she made a disgusted face. Which caused all the grown ups to laugh.
"Thanks."said Lucas as he picked up his sister and started tickling her.
Fits of little giggles filled the cafe as Lucas continued to tickle the little girl as a punishment. Once he stopped he pulled her in for a hug."You been taking care of mom like I asked?"he questioned the girl who just nodded in return."Good."said Lucas as he placed her down on a chair at the counter."So what are you guys gonna do today?"he asked his mother as Brooke took her place beside him wrapping her arms around his waist.
"Well Lily here, has a play date that she's already late for and I'm working all day."said Karen as she caught sight of the time."If you'll excuse me I'm gonna make sure Ms. Carrie has all her things."said Karen speaking of her part time nanny. She by no means was pawning her daughter off on someone she just needed a little help from time to time. After talking briefly with the older lady she returned."Say goodbye to Lucas and Brooke sweetie."smiled Karen."You'll see them later."she added when the smile on her daughter faltered.
"You promise?"she questioned looking at Lucas and Brooke.
"She sure does."assured Brooke as she went to give the little girl a hug."Bye baby girl. See you later."
Lucas went to hug his sister as well."Have fun Lily."he added while she was already jumping out of her seat in excitement for her playdate."Bye."was all she yelled as she exited the cafe.
"She is too cute."smiled Brooke as she held onto Lucas' side tighter.
"She asks about you both all the time."offered up Karen once her daughter was out of sight."So what are your plans for today?"she asked curiously.
"We're just gonna hang out for now."said Lucas as he and Brooke took a seat at the counter when his mother made her way behind it."Then later we're hopefully gonna meet up with everyone."
"Everyone?"questioned Karen.
"Yeah, we sorta all made a pact to come back after four years and tonight at midnight is when that's supposed to happen."said Brooke with a grin as she looked at Lucas.
"Well that sounds interesting. Are you sure everyone is coming?"
Lucas shook his head."No, actually all we know for sure is that Nathan and Haley will be here. We talked to them earlier."
"Well I hope more turn up. You all should come have dinner here tomorrow. I'll close the cafe early."offered Karen happy to help out in any way she could.
"That sounds good."said Brooke with a nod."There is just one thing you should know Karen."added Brooke with a tight smile. This was gonna sound ridiculous. She was sure that's what Karen was gonna think.
"What is it?"asked Karen. This seemed serious.
Brooke swallowed as she looked at Lucas who only shrugged in return."Well it's like we said, we aren't sure who is coming, but Peyton might be here and we aren't sure how well she'll take the news of me and Lucas being together again. And since tonight isn't about me and Lucas we decided to keep the fact that we're together a secret, right Luke?"
"You decided."was all he said.
Brooke shot him and evil look."We decided."she corrected.
Karen nodded not sure what else to do."So what is it you want from me?"she was confused but this was their life and she wasn't going to question it.
"Just to not say anything to anyone about us being together. That's all. It's not a big deal at all really."she finished with a smile.
Karen looked at the petite brunette."Umm... okay. I guess I can do that, though I really don't understand."finished Karen.
"She just doesn't want anyone to be upset tonight mom. We'll tell everybody afterward. We just want tonight to be drama free."added Lucas feeling like he should help his girlfriend explain.
"I see."nodded Karen."Well my lips are sealed. I just want you two to have fun tonight."
"We will."smiled Brooke as she placed her hand in Lucas', which he squeezed in reassurance.
"Well then okay."piped up Karen."Are either of you hungry?"
"Oh I am."exclaimed Brooke shooting her hand up in the air."I'm starving"she groaned aloud.