Hey, everyone. Can I just say I was totally blown away by all the awesome feedback I got for that last chapter? You guys are so incredibly sweet. :) And thank you also to those who have congratulated me on my engagement. I really am sorry about the wait, everyone. I can't apologize enough. I guess my life will never just be dull, but that's not always a bad thing. Anyway, I visited my fiancé's family and mine, then came back and somehow got the flu, then nearly got fired for missing so much work, but somehow saved my own ass and my job. It's been a very stressful few months, but things are stabilized again, so I should be able to update more often. Good news, right? Anyway, here is a much deserved shout out for everyone who replied to chapter 8:
aqualeo2425: Thank you so much for the review, honey. Wow, another reader from a different board. I love when that happens. It makes me feel like maybe I haven't let all of you down if you're able to find my story again. :) Don't worry, I won't leave you hanging again. I know it might've seemed like I was, but I swear I wasn't. lol. Well, you may have to wait a little longer for their arrival in Tree Hill, but I promise it's coming and I'll make it good. Yeah, finding out Haley's secret... that's gonna be tricky to write, but I'll figure it out. Thanks again for reviewing. I really, really appreciate it.
OneTreeHillNaley23: Thanks for taking time to leave a review! I'm so glad you're enjoying the story and I hope this update is worth the very long wait. Sorry it took me awhile. smiles sheepishly I hope you still love me. :)
luvhotshot23: Hey! I was so excited to see your review. Don't worry about not reading the last one sooner. I definitely understand about not always having the time. :) I'm glad you thought Nathan's protective side worked. Sometimes I feel like I make my characters too complicated, but I always just want them to be dynamic, you know? Yes, hitchhiking is both creepy and funny in this case. Although, I probably should've shown more of its darker side. I don't want anyone getting the idea that it's perfectly safe and blaming it on me. Can you say law suit? lol. Just kidding. Haha yes, Nathan and Peyton do have a kind of love/hate relationship. Mostly because I just find those more interesting. Well, I'm glad you were satisfied with Tim's character. For some reason, I just love writing him in as comic relief in all my stories. I so miss him on the show. :( Lol, don't feel too stupid because the inspiration for Tim's mistake with the door was actually myself. Yes, I've done it before too. More than once actually. Some lessons are just hard to learn. lol. Thank you so much for leaving yet another amazing review. I hope I didn't piss you off too much with the wait. lol. Love ya! Oops, just noticed you left a review to my author's note too. Aww.. thank you so much. Sorry again that I let you down and took so long. I hope you'll forgive me. :)
OTHbabe23: Well, I'm so happy you loved the chapter. And obviously so sorry about the wait for this one. :( Haha, I'm glad you thought Brooke being a bitch was funny. I didn't want her to be completely heartless though, so I took some of the edge back off. Glad you liked her line about already having Nathan. I love writing sassy Brooke. lol. Thanks for commenting on the specific parts you liked. I really value those kinds of opinions and it definitely helps me know what I'm doing right and what I need to improve on, so thanks. :) Yeah, I know, Peyton isn't normally the one to diffuse situations, but I thought it suited her in this story. Haha, you know the Brooke in this story is a lot like a friend I had in high school. You better believe that girl would kick your ass if you called her names. lol. I'm glad you thought Nathan giving her the sweatshirt was sweet. I kind of want him to be an ass, but not completely. I like writing people who are unpredictable. It's fun knowing you guys never know what to expect. :) Hmmm... interesting ideas about the three little words. Well, you'll find out what they really are when you read this chapter. Until then, feel free to keep guessing. lol. I'm glad you think a pissed off Haley is funny, I think so too. :) And yes, you're right, Nathan and alcohol don't mix too well in this case... you'll find out why. Thank you again so, so much for all the wonderful comments. You know I adore reading them. Love you, babe.
naley23brucas03: Wow, I was so happy to read such an enthusiastic review. It put this huge smile on my face. :D Amazing is the most amazing word and I'm so glad you used it to compliment me. It was seriously so sweet. And I'm so glad you liked Brooke and Tim. They're quite the characters, aren't they? Well, there'll be a lot more of them once we reach Tree Hill. :) Yes, Nathan punching people to defend Haley's honor... it's a beautiful picture isn't it? lol. Glad you thought it was sweet. Thanks again for all the kind words. :)
Caitidid: Thanks a ton for the feedback. I'm so glad you enjoyed this chapter too. Yeah, I know it's sometimes sad that they can't get along for longer periods of time, but there will be more truce-like scenes in the future. And of course more fights. So, I'm glad you like what those lead to. :) Actually, Haley's symptoms will stay out of the picture awhile longer. I want to keep it light for now and make it serious later on. I hope that makes sense. Anyway, I'm so happy that you reviewed again and I hope you like this next one. :) Wow, I just read your reply to my author's note about getting engaged. Thank you so, so much for being so understanding. I know I shouldn't feel guilty, I just know how disappointing it can be for my readers when I don't update. But I'm definitely glad that you get it and thanks for being so concerned. :) Your review was really comforting. It helped ease my mind just a little. Thank you so much again.
HJS-NS-23: Well, I was definitely happy to see your review and all of the nice, pretty things you had to say. :D lol. I'm so glad you loved the girls and Tim. It was weird suddenly introducing new characters, but I made an executive decision and I guess it worked. :) Thanks for the concern. Don't worry, I didn't get busted for posting at work. I can be very sneaky. lol. Again, I'm so happy you're loving the story and that you always find time to review. Have an awesome week, or month, or you know, life! Lol. And thank you so much for the heartfelt congratulations. It meant a lot that you care so much. This might sound kind of weird, but I like feeling connected with my readers. You are so sweet. Thanks for being happy for me. :D Love you!
xxlovin-laffertyxx: You're very welcome. I'm sorry it took so long to update, but thanks for the review. It's awesome to hear that you're loving the story. And it's a nice little stroke for my ego. lol. Just kidding. Thanks again!
pingshui: Hey, I was so glad to hear from you! Thanks for the review. I'm glad you still love it, even though you're having to re-read it. Don't worry, we'll get to the new stuff fairly soon. I'm glad you can't wait for Nathan's reaction to the cancer. I'm sorry you're gonna have to wait a little longer, but I'll make it worth your while. :) Love ya! Haha, yes I am lucky to be in love and engaged. Thanks so much for the congratulations and the understanding. It meant a lot that you said to take my time. I know I can definitely count on you. :) So, thank you.
sweetdevil23: Thanks so much for the honest feedback. Sorry if you were a little disappointed, but I'm glad you still loved it anyway. I'm glad you like Tim. He's such a loveable moron, isn't he? lol. Yeah, I kind of changed up their characters a little, so I'm glad you like Peyton in this story. Don't worry, there are plenty more naley fights coming your way. Those definitely won't stop anytime soon. Haha, I hope you like Nathan drunk. Thanks again! Well, I just read your reply to my author's note. Thank you so much for the excited congratulations! It was definitely good to hear. Sorry about the wait, but I'm glad you understood. And I will definitely have fun planning the wedding. It's gonna be huge... everyone will talk about it. lol. Just kidding. Thanks again!
happywtmylife: Oh my gosh, so I guess I was being a little over-emotional, but your review seriously like sent me through the roof. Thank you a million times over! That has got to be one of my sweetest reviews ever. :D :D :D You're so welcome for replying to your reviews. I'm glad you appreciate it so much. I just figure it's the least I can give back to amazing people like you who read my stories and give me good reason to keep writing. And when you say something like my story is one of your favorites, it seriously means the world and then some. I don't even know how to thank you. Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you! I'm seriously ready to dump my fiancé for you. Lol, just kidding, but don't think I didn't seriously consider it. ;) Haha. Do you see how giddy I am right now? I don't even know if I'm writing anything that makes any sense, but I hope you're getting from it that you're awesome and I love you! xoxo a thousand times! Haha, just read your reply to my author's note. Thanks so much for congratulating me. It makes me even more excited when other people are happy for me. :) Thanks for understanding too. I knew there was a reason I liked you. lol. xoxo
naley-hathenfan: Wow, I admire your dedication. It must've taken forever to read all eight chapters, but I'm so glad you did and decided to review. :) Thank you so much for the compliments. I couldn't ask for better praise than you gave me. Haha, I'm glad you liked the crazy old grandmother. And Nathan calling Tim dense. If the shoe fits... lol. Thanks again for the awesome feedback. You rock! And thanks for replying to my author's note too. It was awesome of you to take time to congratulate me even though you just started reading. You rock even more!
lamiss12: Thanks for reviewing! I know it's a pain sometimes, but I'm glad you decided to do it anyway. :) I know, it's sad that Haley's sick, but I think it'll make the storyline stronger in the end. Or at least I hope so... fingers crossed. lol. I'm glad you're loving the Nathan/Haley connection cause it's only gonna get better. :) lol.
larocca22233: I'm sorry your review didn't show up and you had to write another one, but man am I glad you did. I was absolutely blown away by how amazing it was! I'm glad you thought it was hot... and that you got a kick out of impatient Nathan. No pun intended. lol. Yes, Brooke was a supreme bitch, wasn't she? I agree, writing it took me back to some major bitches in my high school days, but I don't get as mad thinking about it anymore. Which is weird... maybe I finally grew out of high school... huh, I didn't think I ever would. lol. Haha, yeah Brooke's comment about Nathan was a low blow (again, no pun intended :D). Well, we agree on one thing, pretty much anyone's jokes are better than Tim's. But I guess he just proves making people laugh isn't always intentional. lol. Oh yeah, I totally forgot about that. Over-possessive lesbian energy... too funny. Yeah, Brooke can be over-dramatic, but I still love her most of the time. Hmm... I like the way you think. Who needs a sweatshirt when you have Nathan to keep you warm? Or any clothes for that matter? Maybe that was a little inappropriate. What would my fiancé say? He'd probably be cool with it since Nathan's hotness is just undeniable. lol. Just kidding. Haha, glad you liked the gray sweatshirt conversation. I may have gone a little overboard, but I'm glad it still worked. I completely agree. I was so sad when Tim just suddenly disappeared, no explanation or anything. We should write a petition or form a protest or something. Cause if he's not in this season, I'm gonna have to kick somebody's ass. lol. Haha, yeah, I guess that's just the way I think. I get suspicious when there's a group of guys together in a public restroom. I'm glad you liked seeing Nathan's sweet side. He's kind of becoming a contradiction, but I kinda like it that way. I agree, I get scared just watching fights, not sure I could handle being caught in the middle. I'm sorry you almost blacked out, I know that can be really tough. Holy shit, that sucks about the shoulder surgery and getting hit where the anchors are. It just sounds so painful. shivers I haven't broken anything in a while, so it's hard to relate at the moment. Though I'm sure I will soon as I'm the world's biggest klutz. lol. Yes, we all now know Nathan thinks Haley's cute. But he's so damn stubborn about it. Oh well, I could change that, but I don't think I will. It's too much fun the way it is. lol. Haha... emperor's groove... I didn't even make that connection, but now that you mention it, I definitely see it. Yeah, I haven't watched that in forever. Wow, I need to have one of those days where you watch a bunch of Disney movies so you can feel like a little kid again. I know I'm probably too old for it, but do I really care? Hell no. lol. Glad you liked Tim's arrival. Haha, I do the door thing too. But now, I figure it out a lot faster and try to make sure no one else saw. lol. LMAO, I loved your comment about the girl scouts would make more sense with Tim. Hmm... Tim... girl scouts... the possibilities... I may have to keep this in mind for later. lol. Yeah, I admit the change in Brooke was a little abrupt, but what can I say? She's fast with the whole forgive and move on thing. Haha, yes, Tim definitely resembles a five year old in more ways than one. Wow, that must've been some experience going through the drive thru without a car. I've always wanted to try it, but I have a real knack for accidentally pissing off the people working at fast food restaurants, so I've always thought it was better not to try my luck. lol. I'm glad you got to have that adventure. :) I'm so glad you're hooked on my story and I seriously can't tell you how grateful I am for the awesome reviews. Love you!
naley19: I'm so glad you reviewed. Thank you so much for saying how awesome the chapter and the story are. It's such a great feeling to get such positive feedback. So sorry about the wait, but I'm praying it was worth it and promising it won't be so long next time. Thanks again! Oh, and I agree. Naley 4ever! Lol.
glassy waltz: Heeeeyyyy!!! lol. Sorry, I was just excited to read your review. Wow, sounds like things were really crazy for you too for awhile. Sorry about the surprise visit from the parents (even though this is coming like two months later). I know how those go. They're basically nightmares, aren't they? Especially when you don't know they're coming. And they always pick the absolute worst times, don't they? lol. Enough of my complaining. Good luck with the whole getting in the Uni thing. :) Glad to hear the alerts were fixed. :)
"Awh. Nathan is so cute! We need more guys like him in this world. Specially down south, please! I asked first!"
Lmao. I totally agree. I know I'm engaged, but I can still dream, right? sighs Wrong, I know, I know. lol. Hmm... you may be right about McDonald's, but I'm open to the whole Burger King thing. Didn't mean to discriminate, it was just the first fast food place that popped into my head cause I'd eaten there that day. lol. Yes, I know, I would be disgusted if I found two people making out in the McDonald's restroom, but where else could they have gone? Well, I'm sure there's somewhere, but I only have so many creative thoughts a day. lol. I'm glad you think Peyton and Brooke rock. It would be a shame if people didn't like them because they will have major roles in the story once Nathan and Haley reach Tree Hill. Haha, yes, slightly gross with Haley's no shirt thing, but I needed a reason for her to piss off the guy, so Nathan could fight him. What's a story without a few fights, right? lol. Haha, glad you love my mean streak. I swear, I'm really like the nicest person ever. :) Just kidding. Glad I could make you like Peyton a little more. I want her to be somewhat likeable in this story. Interesting story about the drive thru. I never thought of trying it on bikes. But that's probably because I'm too lazy to ride my bike except maybe once every few years. I'm such a worthless bum. lol. You know what? I'm craving a burger now. I really shouldn't talk about food so much... my appetite's big enough already. :) Well, I guess you'll find out what the three little words are in a few minutes. I really didn't mean to psyche everyone out so much about it, but I'm loving the anxiety. lol. Thank you once again for brightening my day with your awesome review:) Oh, and thanks for the congratulations. I'm glad my excuse was acceptable. I hate when people are mad at me. Even though I usually deserve it. :)
Freder-cheddar: Thanks so, so much for reviewing and congratulating me on my engagement. It meant a lot. And I'm obviously really happy that you're loving the story. It was so nice of you to leave a comment. :)
daddyzangel108: Thanks so much for the heartfelt words and for the congrats. Lol, I'm glad you think it's cute. It makes me all giddy just thinking about it. Even though my fiancé's on a business trip until Monday. :( But we have the rest of our lives, so I'm not too sad. :) Well, I'll definitely take your advice on enjoying myself. Thanks for understanding!
coupling-all-the-time: Thank you for all the positive words! And for the congratulations. I know you said I don't need to apologize, but I still want to say I'm sorry. Thanks for being happy for someone you don't even know, it's really sweet of you to say! I'm so glad you love the story and that you accepted my reasons for not updating so readily. It was awesome of you.
alwaysandforever08: Thank you so much for reviewing. Don't worry, I'm not going to stop this story, I just was in kind of a time crunch. I hope you're still reading. Thanks for the congratulations, it was so nice to hear. :)
Everyone: Wow, that was a long shout out. But it felt so good that it took so long because it means you guys are all leaving incredible feedback. I know I say it all the time, but there really is almost nothing better than coming here and reading all of your reviews. I don't think I ever smile more than when I do. :D
Chapter 9:
Nathan's POV
No one is happy about Tim's sudden appearance. How do I know this, you ask. Well, it's painfully obvious in the way Peyton is frowning deeply and muttering, "Damn it," repeatedly under her breath. Brooke is glaring at him with an unmeasured amount of contempt. Bevin just stares dumbfounded. And Theresa is rolling her eyes and looking anywhere but at him.
I feel Haley stiffen in my arms and I know she's not too happy either.
"Haley?" he says. I watch as her eyes close and she swallows. I think I just saw Peyton grimace.
Tim's eyes wander down Haley. They stop abruptly as they reach her waist. He takes note of my arms there and looks back at me. He tries to look menacing. He's not. His eyes look all squinty. He looks like he just ate something sour. He looks constipated. "Nathan?" his voice shakes slightly as he says it.
"Yeah?" I glare at him, knowing it'll throw him off. He continues to stare, as though in disbelief, and I tighten my arms around Haley. She's mine, bastard.
"I thought we talked about this," he sounds confused. Not that confusing, a sshole. I f uckin stole her from you. Not that you ever had her anyway. Haley starts giggling and I smirk down at her.
"Tim, I tried man. She doesn't want you." I know what you're thinking. Do I really have to rub it in his face? Yes. I can hear Peyton, Theresa, Brooke, and Bevin all laughing and I know I'm not the only one who thinks so.
We can all see that he's trying not to cry. And honestly, the whole thing's just so damn pathetic, I almost feel bad for the guy. Until he snatches Haley away from me and into his arms. As he grips her tightly, she screams out, "Ow!" and I know he's hit the bruise on her back. Idiot.
He lets go of her quickly like he's been burned. "What? What did I do? Did I hurt you?" Of course you did d ickhead.
She just frowns scarily at him and comes back to me. I wrap her in my arms again and stand like that with her protectively. Normally, I don't do protective. But we're making an exception since she's been hurt and Tim's here. Yeah, you know, she's just so... vulnerable... I feel I have to... keep her safe. It's really only a sense of duty. I couldn't possibly have feelings for her, could I?
I shake my thoughts off. No, of course I don't. 'Liar,' whispers that damn voice in my head. Why won't it ever f ucking shut up?!
Brooke addresses him for the first time. "Tim, what are you doing here?" It's a question we all want the answer to. Who told this moron where they were going?
He smiles widely, as though he's some sort of genius or something. I hate cocky bastards. With the exception of myself of course. "Well, I found out about your little road trip, so I followed you. I lost you for awhile back there, but it's OK now," he answers.
Peyton's eyebrow shoots up. "So, we lost you for awhile?" She lowers her voice so he can't hear her. "Imagine that." Haley laughs and I smile at the sound. Peyton smiles too.
Tim's really upset now. "Fine! Be buttholes. I'm going inside to get some food,"he stamps out childishly, holding out his arms and running straight for the door, like he's gonna run right through it or something. He slams into it and it doesn't budge. He looks confused and massages his wrists for a few seconds before trying again to push it open. The manager, looking really pissed, jogs over and pushes the door open from inside. It swings out and almost hits Tim in the face. He jumps back to avoid the collision and, blushing, hurries inside.
We all laugh.
(still Nathan's POV)
I leave Haley, Peyton, Brooke, Theresa, and Bevin to sort their little hissy fits out and rest in Brooke's car, flipping through stations. I turn the air on and recline back in the seat, relaxing after my nearly sleepless night.
About thirty minutes later, Tim saunters out of the restaurant. I see him inching toward Haley with a weird look in his eye and immediately, I bolt out of my seat and hurry back to her, fitting an arm around her waist. It's getting to be a familiar position for us now. Who would've thought? Me and the little bitch... getting along. I shoot Tim a death glare and, intimidated, he backs up a few steps. Satisfied, I turn away from him.
"So," Brooke starts and my attention turns to her. I pray she doesn't have something up her sleeve. "You guys need a ride to Tree Hill?"she asks and I freeze. S hit! I completely forgot about everything. Our little road trip was like hell on Earth, but looking back on it now, I loved every f uckin minute.
I don't want this to be over yet. I don't want us to be over yet. My mind scrambles for an excuse, but this time, there are none. I'm about to admit defeat. I look at Haley and she looks at me. What the hell do we do now?
Brooke looks back and forth between us, oblivious to what's going on. "I mean, we can give you guys a ride. You don't have a car, right?" she keeps going, not taking the hint.
Tim interrupts, eager to spend time with Haley. My jaw tightens. Back off, bitch. He doesn't seem to notice as he says, "Yeah, it's the only way. I mean, unless you plan to walk the whole way. And I'd think you'd rather take a ride from us."
I know I'm supposed to be the brains, but really, who can think of excuses all the time? As far as I can see, there are none. I'm about to accept their offer when Haley jumps in. "Your car," she blurts.
What the hell?! I thought she had an idea. "What?" I say, not comprehending.
She elbows me. "Your car, we need to call a tow truck and… uh, have that picked up."
And suddenly, I get it. Brilliant. Why didn't I think of that? So, I decide to go along with it. "Oooooh yeah and um….we have to wait for them to fix it, then…uh… then we can, you know, drive to Tree Hill. No big deal."
We avert our eyes to the rest of the group almost simultaneously to screen their reactions. Tim looks confused and Peyton's just smiling, knowing exactly what we're up to. The others look bewildered.
I look back at Tim again. Poor guy. He's crushed. I smirk. Until I see his eyes light up. S hit! He's got a plan. "Well, it's not like both of you need to be there for that. Nathan can stay and Haley can come with me. I'll give her a ride." Everyone looks around at each other and I'm relieved. No one else seems to think it's a good idea either. Damn right, it's not!
Then, he has to keep going. "I mean, the girls probably don't have enough room in their car, right guys?" Brooke's nodding and everyone else is starting to see it too. No! Damn it! This is not how it's supposed to work out.
I bring Haley closer, not willing to let her go yet. I've been to hell and back to get her to even give me a chance. I'm not giving it up now. She wraps an arm around me. "Tim, if you think I'm letting you give me a ride, you can just go f uck yourself because there's no way in hell I'll ever get in a car with you," she says, obviously trying to get rid of his idea.
He's smiling. F uck. Another idea. Why is this the one time he's not being a complete dumba ss?"Come on, Haley. I won't do anything. Scout's honor." He holds up two fingers in a classic peace sign and Haley chuckles. I would laugh too, but I'm too pissed at him.
I stiffen up and I know she feels it. My voice gets deeper because if I try to talk normally, I'll start screaming. I'm trying to control my temper. "All her stuff's in my car, so I think it's a better idea if she goes with me. It shouldn't take long to get the car fixed and we'll be in Tree Hill before you can even miss us."
She starts bobbing her head up and down furiously, agreeing. "Yeah."
"Alright, sounds good to me," Brooke says and Tim looks crestfallen. I almost have the urge to stick my tongue out at him. But Nathan Scott doesn't do childish. "Let's go, girls." Brooke gives Haley and I each a hug and she and the other three start toward her car.
Tim makes one last desperate attempt. "But…" Give it up, I think. This guy just doesn't know when to quit.
Peyton stalks back over and grabs him roughly, dragging him to his car. She forces him inside, the whole while screaming at him. Haley and I just laugh and turn away. Brooke drives off as fast as she can while Tim putters along, throwing these pitiful glances back, as though they'll somehow change Haley's mind. She motions for him to hurry up and leave and, immature bastard he is, he sticks his tongue out at her.
She laughs and I smile down at her. "So, you hungry?" I ask.
She grins back at me. "Starved."
I look back behind us at McDonalds. "I wonder what would happen if we went through the drive thru without a car," I say.
She laughs again. "Yeah, I think they've had enough of us for one day."
The sun is setting, throwing the sky into different colored hues. I look down at the girl whose hand is in mine and I smile. Life is good. It's f uckin awesome.
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Haley's POV
I tell myself to pull my hand away from his. This is unwanted physical contact. I swear it is! 'Maybe not,' whispers that little voice in my head. Damn it! Haley, jerk your hand away from him this second. S hit! Why does my body never listen to me? 'See,' whispers the voice again. 'Shut up!' I hiss.
He turns to me. "Huh?"
"Oh nothing. Um, where are we staying tonight?"
He frowns. "Uhh... think there are any motels around here?"
I sigh. "Guess we'll have to find one."
Then, it's silent. F uck! Why does it always get awkward when we're nice to each other?
"So... I hate clowns," I say without thinking.
He gives me this look like I'm crazy. "What? I do," I try to defend myself. "When I was like 4 years old, I met my dad's whole side of the family. They were all clowns in the circus. It was scary."
He laughs. "You are not like anyone else I've ever met."
I snort. "Is that supposed to be a compliment?"
He shrugs. "It's kind of refreshing."
I roll my eyes. "Oh yeah, I forgot. I'm supposed to be 'new blood.' What the hell does that mean, anyway? There have to be stranger people than me in Tree Hill. Take Tim as an example."
He laughs again. "Point taken."
It's silent for a couple more seconds. Then, he goes, "I hate pom poms." I burst out laughing. "No, seriously, they scare me."
I raise an eyebrow at him. "Pom poms scare you?"
He smiles. "Yeah. When we were like 6, I was on the rec center basketball team and Peyton and Brooke were cheerleaders there. There was this huge box of pom poms in the corner and they pushed me into it. They thought it was funny. I swear, I thought I was gonna die."
That only makes me laugh harder. "You thought the pom poms were trying to kill you?" I'm doubling over now.
He pouts playfully. "Hey, it's not funny. They were suffocating me. F uckin pom poms. They even look creepy."
I calm myself down. "Anchovies scare me..."
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Nathan's POV
I love feeling her hand in mine. That much I will admit. But f uck you if you think that means I like her! Because it doesn't. I don't like her and there's not a damn thing she can do to change it! I look over as she runs her free hand through her hair. It falls softly back into place and I get a perfect view of her profile. S hit! Spoke too soon. I'll just have to watch myself. Because, damn it! I will not fall for this girl. I don't fall for girls. They fall for me. I'm a Scott. Scotts don't give in to their emotions.
I think I hear her say something, but I'm not sure. I turn to her. "Huh?"
She glances at me, startled. Now, I know she said something. But I'll let it go for now. "Oh nothing. Um, where are we staying tonight?"
I frown. Just one more thing I didn't think of. Damn it! That bitch. I'm supposed to be smarter than her. I think for a few seconds. "Uhh... think there are any motels around here?"
She sighs. "Guess we'll have to find one."
It goes quiet again and I can't help but think about how it's always quiet when we're trying to be civil. And I decide it's because we have something in common. We're both stubborn as hell.
And then, she interrupts the awkward silence. "So... I hate clowns."
I give her this look. Is this girl f uckin insane?! Where the hell did that come from? "What? I do," she starts again. "When I was like 4 years old, I met my dad's whole side of the family. They were all clowns in the circus. It was scary."
Then, I laugh. She really is something else. "You are not like anyone else I've ever met."
She snorts. "Is that supposed to be a compliment?"
I don't know many girls who would dare to snort in my presence. It's kind of endearing in a way. I shrug. "It's kind of refreshing."
She rolls her eyes at me. "Oh yeah, I forgot. I'm supposed to be 'new blood.' What the hell does that mean, anyway? There have to be stranger people than me in Tree Hill. Take Tim as an example."
I laugh. It's true. "Point taken."
Then, it's silent again, and I decide it's my turn to say something. So, I blurt out, "I hate pom poms." She busts out laughing. "No, seriously, they scare me."
One of her brows raises up. "Pom poms scare you?"
I smile. This isn't so bad. "Yeah. When we were like 6, I was on the rec center basketball team and Peyton and Brooke were cheerleaders there. There was this huge box of pom poms in the corner and they pushed me into it. They thought it was funny. I swear, I thought I was gonna die."
She starts laughing again. "You thought the pom poms were trying to kill you?"
I pretend to pout. "Hey, it's not funny. They were suffocating me. F uckin pom poms. They even look creepy."
She laughs awhile longer, then finally stops. She looks at me seriously. "Anchovies scare me."
I grin. "Why?"
She shudders. "Because, they're freaky looking. And once, my sister's little bratty son made me eat a slice of pizza covered in them. He said he'd give me $50. Little bastard. Never paid me a dime."
I laugh. "I only know one person who likes anchovies."
She smiles. "Who?"
"Tim."
And then, we're both laughing again. I have to say, it's not a bad feeling.
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Haley's POV
We've been walking for about thirty minutes, but it's not that bad. We've actually managed to keep up a decent conversation. Me and Nathan Scott. Who would've thought?
I smile at him. "So, you know how everyone always says you should smile first thing in the morning?" He nods. "Well, I agree." He gives me this incredulous look, like he doesn't believe me. "You should get it over with."
He cracks up and I laugh with him. So what if it isn't funny? Who the hell cares? We're having fun.
He stops laughing and turns to me. "You know that quote, 'If at first you don't succeed, try, try again?'"
"Yeah."
"What a load of s hit! I mean, if you fail, who's gonna humiliate themselves by trying again? I say, if you don't get it the first time, hide all evidence you tried."
We laugh again. Then we stop. "OK, we're not even being funny anymore," I groan.
He agrees. "I know, we're so f uckin lame."
I punch his shoulder. "Speak for yourself."
He rolls his eyes and then, it's quiet again.
I grab his arm. "Hey! Is that a motel?"
He turns to where I'm pointing and squints his eyes. "Yeah, I think it is."
So, we walk up to it and find that it is, indeed, a motel. A very shitty looking one. Damn it! Why does everything f ucked up always happen to me? We decide we don't have another choice and pull our money together. S hit! Total, we only have $13. I doubt you can get a room in any motel for that cheap. "F uck!" he curses.
"Time for Plan B," I mutter, beginning to walk.
"Which is...?" he responds, still p issed. He falls in to step beside me.
"I don't know, we'll think of something."
He groans. "Why do I always have to come up with a plan?"
I stop walking. "Excuse me?"
He turns and takes a few steps so he's standing in front of me. "What the hell are you bitching about now?"
I shove him and he takes a few steps back. "You a sshole! Where the hell do you get off calling me a bitch?! First off, I was referring to your insinuation that you do all the work. Secondly, what makes you think I'm the one always bitching about something? Every time I say something, you go off and pout about it!"
"I was talking about how you always get all over-dramatic and start cussing me out over nothing. So, that's why I'm calling you a bitch. And I do not go off and pout. Everything has to be so damn complicated with you. And you know what, I'm f uckin tired of trying to figure it out!" he yells.
"Fine!" I scream. "Then just don't talk to me at all! I hate you! I liked it better when people just ignored me all the time! But no, you can't ever just leave me the hell alone! You have to go be a d ick and yell at me about everything. I wish I'd gone with Tim! I...HATE...YOU!" I shout with such venom, it leaves me out of breath. And then, I feel drained. All my energy is spent and with it, goes my anger.
S hit! What have I done? I can't believe I just told him I hate him.
He looks slightly hurt, then his eyes go stone cold and he turns and just starts walking. I run after him. I have to do something. "Nathan"
He cuts me off. "I don't talk to people who hate me." His voice falters on the word hate and I can tell I've really gotten to him. But this time, it doesn't make me feel satisfied. Instead, I feel guilty. And I f uckin hate feeling guilty.
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Nathan's POV
We walk for another 25 minutes and keep up our conversation with no awkward pauses. I think it's a new record for us. If someone had told me 24 hours ago I would be enjoying this girl's company, I would have told them to go to hell. But it's actually happening. At least that would be the consensus.
She smiles at me and it's contagious. Then, she starts talking again. "So, you know how everyone always says you should smile first thing in the morning?" I nod and she continues. "Well, I agree." I just give her this strange look. There's no way in hell this girl thinks you should smile first thing in the morning. "You should get it over with."
And then we both bust out laughing. So, it's not really funny. Neither is much of anything we've said in the last 10 minutes or so. But we're having fun. And when I have fun, I laugh. And if you think that's strange, well then, screw you.
So, I stop laughing and turn to her. She gave me some advice, so I figure I should return the favor. "You know that quote, 'If at first you don't succeed, try, try again?'"
She looks at me, confused. "Yeah."
"What a load of s hit! I mean, if you fail, who's gonna humiliate themselves by trying again? I say, if you don't get it the first time, hide all evidence you tried."
We laugh together again. At about the same time, our laughter dies out and we look at each other. Haley groans. "OK, we're not even being funny anymore," she says.
I nod. "I know, we're so f uckin lame." And we are, but no one else ever has to know, right?
She slugs my shoulder, a little harder than necessary if you ask me. "Speak for yourself."
I just roll my eyes and the silence descends on us again. Damn it! Just when we were doing so well with the whole talking thing.
Then, she grabs my arm. I look down and she's pointing at something. "Hey! Is that a motel?"
I squint my eyes. How does she see that far? "Yeah, I think it is." I'm still a little skeptical, but we walk up to investigate. And it is a motel. Why is she always right? It's really small and, judging from it's outward appearance, not very clean. F uck. Who am I kidding. It's disgusting. But we're running out of options, so we count what little money we have left. A whopping $13. Question: What can you do with $13? Answer: Sleep on the streets.
Hell no! I am not finding some crack house shed to sleep in again. "F uck!" I shout. Why are we having all this bad luck?
"Time for Plan B," she mumbles, starting to walk again.
"Which is...?" I don't mean to sound angry, but I know I do. Just a hint: Don't talk to me when I'm p issed off. I catch up and walk beside her.
"I don't know, we'll think of something," she says, obviously just as angry as I am.
I groan. Can't she think of something herself for once. "Why do I always have to come up with a plan?"
"Excuse me?" I hear her say and turn to find she's stopped a couple steps behind me.
So, I close the distance between us. "What the hell are you bitching about now?"
And, in a flash, she's shoving me backward really hard and screaming at me. "You a sshole! Where the hell do you get off calling me a bitch?! First off, I was referring to your insinuation that you do all the work. Secondly, what makes you think I'm the one always bitching about something? Every time I say something, you go off and pout about it!"
She did not just say that to me! So, I decide I can yell at her too. "I was talking about how you always get all over-dramatic and start cussing me out over nothing. So, that's why I'm calling you a bitch. And I do not go off and pout. Everything has to be so damn complicated with you. And you know what, I'm f uckin tired of trying to figure it out!"
"Fine!" she shouts. "Then just don't talk to me at all! I hate you! I liked it better when people just ignored me all the time! But no, you can't ever just leave me the hell alone! You have to go be a d ick and yell at me about everything. I wish I'd gone with Tim! I...HATE...YOU!" she screams. And it stings. It stings like hell. I knew she didn't like me very much and we had our angry moments, but I can't believe she actually said she hates me. And after all I've done for her. I try to tell myself to be angry and I am, but mostly, I'm hurt.
I make sure not to show any emotion and just start walking off without her. "Nathan" she calls and I can hear her footsteps pounding to catch up with me.
But I don't stop. I don't even turn around as I speak coldly to her, "I don't talk to people who hate me."
And suddenly, I'm wishing this trip had been over a long time ago. I've had people cuss me out before, tell me how much of a d ick I am, make me feel worthless. But never has anyone told me they hated me and meant it. I could tell she meant it. I saw it in her eyes. And her hating me makes me want to hate myself.
F uck her. I don't need this.
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Haley's POV
We walk for a good 15 minutes without saying anything. I know I have to find a way to apologize, but he just looks so angry. I can't bring myself to talk to him right now. I'm scared if I do, he'll want to kill me. No one's ever really wanted to kill me before, at least, as far as I know they haven't.
And then, he suddenly stops walking and turns to me. "Can you sing?"
"What?" I'm startled. I didn't expect him to speak to me so soon. And I thought when he did, it would be to call me a bitch.
"Can you sing?" he repeats, voice gruff and I know he hasn't come close to forgiving me yet.
I nod my head weakly, knowing the more I speak, the angrier he'll get.
He starts to steer me inside this bar, but I hold back, looking at him in confusion. He points to the sign outside and I read it.
Free Karaoke Contest
Winner Receives $500 cash
I nod and allow him to lead me inside. He leaves me in the middle and makes his way to the bar, pointing over to one of the corners. I look over and see a sign for the karaoke. I walk over slowly, knowing I have to enter and win, but not wanting to. I've always loved singing, but I've never really done it in front of anyone. I look over at Nathan, but he's busy ordering a drink. Taking a deep breath, I square my shoulders, and make my way over to the sign up area.
"Name?" asks the guy without looking up.
"Haley," I mumble. I watch as he scribbles it on his clipboard.
"And what will you be singing?" he asks in a bored tone.
I think about it for a minute and finally decide. I tell him and he writes that down too. "Good, you can wait wherever you want for your name to be called."
I thank him quietly and look around for somewhere to sit. I look over at Nathan and scowl. There's some blonde with a huge rack sitting next to him now, touching him and laughing. Who the hell needs Nathan Scott anyway?! Maybe it was his idea, but I'm the one carrying it out. This is my show and I won't f uckin let him bring me down.
There are only three people who sing before me. The first is completely smashed and faints before even finishing the song. Some guy sitting at one of the tables goes up and drags her offstage. The second one is OK, but really pitchy. The third one is a guy and his performance is a mess. It's all over the place with highs and lows. I flinch just listening to him.
Apparently, only 7 people signed up, so I'm right in the middle. Three before me and three after.
I stare at Nathan as they call my name. His head shoots up and he looks toward the stage, then catches my eye. When he notices me looking, he glances away, but I can feel his eyes on me as I walk onto the stage. The bright lights are blaring down on me and it's uncomfortable. But then, I find Nathan and he's staring at me intently. Hesitantly, he gives me a nod, like he knows I need the reassurance. Please. He doesn't know me.
I shake off my nerves and keep my eyes on his. The music starts and I move in front of the microphone. And I sing.
I love the time and in between
The calm inside me
In the space where I can breathe
I believe there is a
Distance I have wandered
To touch upon the years of
Reaching out and reaching in
Holding out holding in
The songs before mine were fast, but as I look around, I'm glad I picked a slow one. Everyone's stopped what they are doing and are staring at me, almost like they're mesmerized. I hope they are. Because we really need the money.
I believe
This is heaven to no one else but me
And I'll defend it long as I can be
Left here to linger in silence
If I choose to
Would you try to understand
Even the jacka ss taking people's names stops flipping through the song selections and watches me.
I know this love is passing time
Passing through like liquid
I am drunk in my desire...
But I love the way you smile at me
I love the way your hands reach out and hold me near...
I believe...
I see a couple of people swaying to the music. I look over and see a small smile on Nathan's face. He may still be mad at me, but I'm a damn good singer. And even he knows it.
I believe
This is heaven to no one else but me
And I'll defend it long as
I can be left here to linger in silence
If I choose to
Would you try to understand
I hear a whistle come from the back and it makes me feel confident. I can do this.
Oh the quiet child awaits the day when she can break free
The mold that clings like desperation
Mother can't you see I've got
To live my life the way I feel is right for me
Might not be right for you but it's right for me...
I believe...
I make myself sound stronger. I sing louder and better than I ever have before.
I believe
This is heaven to no one else but me
And I'll defend it long as
I can be left here to linger in silence
If I choose to
Would you try to understand it
I'm almost done. I remind myself to breathe. I find Nathan, but he's drinking again and I can tell he's had a lot already. He stands up to pull the blonde out to dance, but he wobbles. Laughing, he falls back down into his seat. Well, f uck him. I don't need him anymore, I remind myself.
I would like to linger here in silence
If I choose to
Would you understand it
Would you try to understand...
And with that, I'm done. And suddenly, the entire room is on their feet clapping. I smile shyly and run off the stage quickly. I watch the next three acts without really hearing them. I don't look back at Nathan once. I can't believe I got up the nerve to do that. To go up in front of a crowd and sing. And I never would've considered it before I met Nathan.
When everyone else is finished singing, sign up guy comes on the stage. "OK, well, that was the last of our karaoke contestants. And now, it's time to announce the winner of $500. And the winner is... Haley James!"
Everyone claps and screams and whistles and I run up to get my prize, then run back down. I don't like being in the spotlight. I look over at Nathan, but I don't see him anywhere. I start to panic. S hit! He wouldn't have just left me alone, would he? And then, I feel a pair of arms circle me from behind and his voice in my ear. "You won."
I turn around and slap him. "Jacka ss! You scared me."
"Well, excuse me," he slurs and I smell the alcohol on his breath. "I just congratulate want to you."
"What?"
"You want congratulate..."
"Never mind," I sigh. "Let's get back to the motel."
"Motel? We bring Caitlyn... Caitlyn."
That gets me really pissed off. "Who the hell is Caitlyn?!"
"Who the hell is Caitlyn? Who the hell are you?" he squints his eyes at me. F uck. Just my luck. He's completely trashed. Now, I have to get him all the way back to the motel. How the hell am I supposed to do that?! He stumbles into me and wraps an arm around my shoulder to steady himself.
He closes one eye, then opens it and closes the other. "I don't... we met think," he stutters out.
"Yeah, whatever." I blow out an exasperated breath, throwing an arm around his waist and trying to maneuver him toward the door.
"Don't think we yet met," he mutters, squinting at me again.
"Nathan, just shut the f uck up!" I burst out, trying to keep a lid on my anger. How could he do this? He brings me to this club, makes me sing for money, then gets drunk, leaving me to get us back. All by my damn self.
Then, the blonde with the huge rack from earlier shows up on his other side. "Katie!" he cheers, throwing his other arm around her shoulders.
"It's Caitlyn," she says, annoyed.
He rolls his eyes. "Duh."
She leans around him to talk to me. "Need some help?"
I nod. "Yeah, thanks. He's not in the best shape right now."
She rolls her eyes. "I noticed."
Together, we get him outside. I sit with him on the curb while Kaitlyn gets us a cab. She turns to look at me. "So, you did really good up there."
I smile at her. "Thanks."
She nods at Nathan. "I think he's falling asleep." I look down and she's right. He's leaning on my shoulder with his eyes closed and his breathing is getting deeper. I nudge him in the head. "Nathan, wake up!"
His head shoots up. "Huh? What?" He turns to me. "Haley!" he yells joyfully, kissing me full on the lips. I'm surprised, but I kiss him back.
That is, until I hear Caitlyn's voice. "Got one."
I look up and there's a cab pulling up in front of her. "Thanks," I say, smiling at her. I try to help Nathan up. She rushes to help me and we get him on his feet. I lean him against me as we walk to the cab and I sag under his weight. I help him inside and slide in after him. I look back at Caitlyn. She nods and shuts the door after us.
The cab driver turns to make sure we're both inside. Nathan stares at him. "Hey, Dad! Thanks coming get us!"
"Nathan," I try to quiet him, embarrassed.
The cab driver chuckles. "It's OK. I've seen worse."
I smile at him, then turn back to Nathan, who promptly starts belting out the song Respect at the top of his lungs. "R-E-S-P-E-C-T. Find out what it means to meeeeeee."
I groan and bury my head in my hands. Damn it! Why is this happening? I feel him tapping my head as he, thankfully, stops singing. It sounded terrible. "Haley-bo-baley. Where we going? I wanna ride the horsees."
I look up and give him a death glare. "Nathan..." I start.
But I don't get to finish. He pukes all over the cab.
I know it was a long wait, but it definitely won't be this time. Thanks again, as always, for the spectacular reviews. I hope you'll want to leave your thoughts on this one as well. It would be much appreciated, but you don't have to feel obligated.
Anyway, if you like the whole spoiler thing, here are some to tide you over:
-a whole lot more of a really wasted Nathan
-can they share a hotel room without killing each other?
-will Haley share a bed with Nathan?
Haha, I love keeping you guys guessing. But I'm sure you already knew that. :) I'll try to update again sometime in the next week. It shouldn't be too hard as all I have to keep me busy is work, and we all know that doesn't keep me as busy as it should. lol.
I love you guys,
Ashley