When You Need Me I Will Be There

Chapter 4

It had been a week since they came up with the plan and it was working so far. Rory had joined the cheerleading squad with no problem and had only been questioned by Lucas and Haley once as of why she wanted to join because she showed no interest before. She explained in a semi-lie that Brooke had asked her as a favor to her. Lucas and Haley did know of her past friendship with Brooke and didn't ask any further explanation, which Rory was grateful for.

Now being with Nathan was harder than they thought, because every time they saw each other, it was either at cheer and basketball practice or in the halls. They couldn't get a moment alone, then because Lucas was always around. It was starting to annoy both Nathan and Rory. They had resorted to text-messaging to talk, plus they had only been able to meet at the bluffs once beside their weekly sessions. They were trying to be careful, but they were desperate for time alone. They would sneak quick kisses once in awhile.

Finally, Friday came and Rory was at the end of her wits. She needed to talk to Brooke; maybe she would have an idea on how to make this easier on both of them. So. at lunch she sought Brooke out. Finally, she spotted her talking to Peyton, so she went up to them.

"Hey guys."

"Hey Rory." they said in unison

"Can I talk to you privately away from everyone, Brooke?"

"Sure." Brooke responded.

So, they exited the cafeteria and went into the hall where no one was around. Once out there, Rory did a double check to make sure that no one was around as she spoke.

"Brooke, I'm going crazy. I haven't seen Nathan all week, but at practice and for our sessions. Lucas is always around too."

"What am I missing here? Anyone want to fill me in here?" Peyton said looking at both of them.

Brooke turned to Peyton and decided to explain so Rory wouldn't have to.

"Nathan and Rory have become a couple, but they want to keep it under the radar because of Lucas."

"Okay, now I understand why you joined the cheer squad and why he's been giving you longing looks at practice."

"I know and we haven't spent any time alone at all. I need your help, I thought you might understand."

"We do." both Peyton and Brooke replied.

"So any ideas?"

Then Brooke's eyes light up. "A party."

"Without Lucas finding out how?"

"Don't tell him, say it's a cheer meeting for nationals to plan a routine."

"And Nathan?" Peyton asked.

"He can met us there and then, you can be alone."

"I guess I'll take what I can get."

"Perfect."

"Set it up, Brooke. I'll text Nathan."

"Okay."

"Peyton, make sure Lucas doesn't find out."

"Sure Ror. I'll help any way I can".

So after that was set, Rory went back to the cafeteria more calm the before. As she

entered, Lucas came up to her.

"What's going on Rory?"

"Huh?"

"I saw you talking to Brooke."

"Oh that, she just wanted to set up the cheer squad going over to her apartment tonight to go over a routine for nationals." She lied easily.

"So you're bailing on Haley and I again? We had plans remember. I feel like you're hiding something from us your not acting like your self lately."

"Well I'm not, Lucas, I've just been really busy with cheer and tutoring. I'm sorry that I've been bailing on you. I'll make it up to you ok?"

"Okay."

With that, Lucas left her without saying anything more. Rory knew he was hurt, but she didn't know how to be with Nathan and keep her friendship with Lucas. She was stuck between a rock and a hard place. But, then again she chose her happiness, so now, she had to deal with the fallout, which she was afraid of.

Then, she remembered why she was doing this; it wasn't like she was being selfish. She had also put her friends and family before herself. But, now she was go after what she wanted. But, then why did she feel so guilty? She decided to put it out of her mind.

She got her cell phone and texted Nathan.

Nate,

Met me at Brooke's at 7pm. See you then.

Love,

Rory

And hit send.