Chapter 21: Shut Down and falling apart

Nurse: Peyton Sawyer…

Peyton checked in when she got there and now the nurse was calling her this couldn't be good. Peyton, Brooke, and Sam walked towards the nurse

Peyton: (softly) I'm Peyton…

Nurse: (looking sadly at her) Ms. Sawyer, I'm sorry but the doctor needs to see you…

Peyton froze and started to shake. This couldn't be happening. Not her daddy, not the only parent she had left. She could tell by the nurse it wasn't going to be good. Brooke wrapped her arms around her and leads her down the hallway following the nurse to a fate she wasn't sure she wanted Peyton to hear… Sam followed praying that Mr. Sawyer would be ok because she could already tell if he wasn't her family was going to fall apart…

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The nurse said the doctor wanted to see her but she had been waiting in his office for 20 minutes now. She couldn't stand it. Why hadn't the doctor come and talked to her yet? What the hell was he waiting for?

Brooke was sitting next to her. She could see the fear in Peyton's eyes and wished she could make it go away. She tried to hold Peyton's hand but she pulled away and that act alone broke Brooke's heart. Brooke could already see Peyton shutting down and that wasn't a good sign. She was going to pull away from Brooke and their relationship was going to fall apart. She just hoped she was strong enough to stand by Peyton's side. Brooke had sent Sam on a coffee run and told her to wait for them in the waiting room.

The door to the office opened and a young, very handsome man walked into the room. Peyton turns to look at him and stands when he walks towards her. He stops right in front of her and smiles softly.

Dr. (holding out his hand to Peyton, Peyton taking it) I'm Doctor Michael Swartz. I'll be your father's doctor when he arrives

Peyton just nods at him and sits down.

Brooke: (pointing at Peyton) This is Peyton and I'm Brooke

Michael: I thought Larry only had one daughter?
Brooke: He does… I'm Peyton's….

Peyton: (knowing he wouldn't let her stay if he knew she was only her girlfriend) Wife… We're married…

Brooke looked at her in shock and Peyton just gave her a look like she'd explain later. Brooke just smiled at her

Michael: you should put her on your father's emergency contact information just in case you can't be reached or there is a decision you can't make.

Peyton: Let's do that then

Michael: (reaching for a paper and handing it to Peyton) fill this out and it will give Brooke the same rights to your father that you have

Brooke: (taking the paper) I'll fill it out for you sweetheart

Peyton: (looking at Brooke for the first time) Thank you… (turning to look back at the doctor) Is my father here yet? What's going on? Why did you want to see me?
Michael: Your father is in a hospital in Florida. They are stabilizing him and getting ready to air lift him here… He's had another major set back Peyton

Peyton's head dropped and she began to softly cry. She wipes her face a looks at the doctor.

Peyton: What happened?
Michael: He suffered another heart attack in the helicopter and they had to land. It's really bad Peyton. I'm sorry. He's on life support right now and I'm not sure the extent of everything until I get him here.

Peyton: Is he going to die?
Michael: I don't know. I'm sorry

Brooke's head snaps up from the paper she is working on and goes to grab Peyton's hand… Peyton pulls away and then reaches for it again. She didn't want to pull away from Brooke but she couldn't let her support her right now… She held Brooke's hand for a minute and then started crying uncontrollably. Brooke got out of her chair and wrapped her arms around Peyton. Peyton didn't respond she just let Brooke hold her

Michael: He should be here in a few hours, Peyton. Why don't you go home and when they leave Florida I'll call you…

Peyton just shook her head and stood up. Brooke quickly finished filling out the paperwork and handed it to Dr. Swartz. She then followed Peyton out of the office and down the hall. Peyton didn't say anything and then she saw Sam sitting in the waiting room and tried to compose herself but it was too late Sam saw her crying and rushed over to her.

Sam: Peyton, what happened?
Peyton: (wrapping her arms around Sam) He had another heart attack. They had to put him on life support and they don't know if he's going to make it.

Sam: Peyton….

Brooke: Come on you two let's go home.
Peyton: You two go. I'm going to stay here

Brooke: No, you're not! Dr. Swartz told you to go home and you're going home! And why did you tell him I was your wife?
Peyton: They wouldn't have let you stay… You have to be family

Brooke: But I'm your girlfriend so that's family

Peyton: I just wanted to make sure they'd let you stay so that's why I told them you were my wife

Brooke: Ok, baby. Let's go home

Peyton: (Shaking her head) I can't….

Brooke: (getting frustrated) Yes you can! Now move!

Brooke didn't mean to yell at Peyton but she wasn't going to let her sit in the hospital waiting. It was going to be hours before Larry arrived and Peyton would just pull away even more if she sat there. Brooke wanted her to be around Emma and at their home. She was going to spend enough time in the hospital once Larry arrived. Sam looks at Brooke not believing she just yelled at Peyton.

Sam: Why are you being so mean to her Brooke?

Brooke: (looking shocked) What?
Sam: Her dad is dying and you're yelling at her!

Sam and Brooke start arguing and Peyton couldn't stand it!

Peyton: Stop! Both of you just stop! Let's go home

Peyton just walks away from them leaving them standing there looking at each other. Brooke has been through the lost of two parents with Peyton and she knew this was going to be horrible. Peyton was going to pull away and shut out everyone around her. Brooke quickly caught up to Peyton and entwined their fingers. Sam did the same thing. They walked out of the hospital knowing that this was going to be their home once Larry arrived and until he either passed away or got better…. It broke Brooke's heart and was killing Peyton… What would she do without her dad and how would she be able to carry on without him?

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Peyton walks into their house followed by Sam and Brooke. Nathan, Haley, Lucas and Jamie were sitting in the living room. Nathan had Emma in his arms. They all look at Peyton fearing the worse. Brooke just shook her head that everything was ok for now and relief filled their faces. Peyton walks over and collapses in front of Nathan. Besides Brooke Nathan was Peyton's best friend and she'd turn to him when she couldn't turn to anyone else. This action killed Lucas and Brooke because they both wanted to be the one to comfort her. What they didn't realize is she didn't want to be comforted by Nathan she wanted her daughter and Nathan knew that. He handed her Emma and got up out of the chair. She didn't make any movement to keep him there she just leaned against the chair with Emma snuggled into her body and she was softly crying. Jamie saw this and went to sit on the floor next to his aunt. He wrapped his tiny arms around her waist and she plays with his hair. The scene was heartbreaking and Sam couldn't take it anymore. She also rushed over and sat with Peyton on the floor. Brooke motioned for the others to follow her into the kitchen. They all got up and left the room.

Haley: What's going on?

Brooke: Larry had another heart attack while they were air lifting him here. They had to land in Florida and put him on life support. The doctor isn't sure if he's going to live or not…

Nathan: Shit!
Lucas: She isn't going to be able to handle it if Larry dies

Brooke: (getting angry) I know that Lucas!
Haley: Don't yell at him, Brooke! She's going to shut down. This isn't going to be easy for her

Nathan: We'll just have to be with her 24/7

Brooke: She's already pushing me away

Haley: I'm sorry, Brooke
Brooke: That's what she does. I can't lose her though…

Nathan: You're just going to have to be strong and not let it get to you

Lucas: She's going to pull away and she's going to tell you to leave her alone and you're just going to have to stay and force her to let you in…

Brooke: I don't know if I can handle this
Haley: (getting mad now) Stop thinking about yourself Brooke! Do you love her or not? She needs you and she isn't going to let you in easily that's not Peyton! You're going to have to fight for her and you're going to have to be strong. If you can't do that then walk away now because she can't lose you and her father! If you can't be strong then tell us now because we'll take care of her!

Brooke was shocked that Haley was yelling at her like that. She couldn't believe it but she knew Haley was right

Brooke: I can do it…

Haley: Good

They hear the door close and they rush into the living room. They see Sam sitting there holding Emma and Peyton nowhere to be found. Brooke's face fills with horror.

Brooke: Where'd she go?
Sam: I don't know. We were all sitting here and then all of a sudden she stood up, handed me Emma and walked out of the house.
Jamie: She was crying really hard what's the matter with Aunt Peyton?
Nathan: Grandpa Larry is really sick and Peyton's just worried about him

Jamie: (getting up and grabbing his coloring supplies) Then I'm going to make her a picture to make her feel better

Haley: I think she'd like that

Lucas: Brooke, do you want me to go look for her?
Brooke: No, I know where she's going. I'll give her a little time and then go get her

Haley: Jamie and I will stay here with you guys to help out. Nathan is leaving for an away game streak so we're alone anyway and I want to help

Lucas: I can watch Emma during the day while everyone's at school

Brooke: (not caring anymore that Lucas has been an ass she just needs their help) Thanks you guys…
Sam: What can I do to help?
Brooke: Stay out of trouble

Sam: Done but I have to help Peyton somehow

Nathan: Just be there for her

Haley: You can help me put the kids to bed.

Sam: Ok

Brooke: I'm going to go get her

Lucas: I'm going to go but if you need anything just let me know

Brooke: Thanks, Luke

Brooke and Lucas walks out of the house and Brooke gets into her car and heads towards where she knew Peyton would be. She pulled off the side of the road first and started crying hysterically. She couldn't lose Peyton and she known that if Larry died Peyton would never be the same and their relationship would suffer and she didn't know if she could handle that…

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Peyton was sitting in front of her mom's headstone crying. She didn't know why this was happening and she was so lost and confused. She needed her dad even though he wasn't around she always knew he would be if she needed him and the thought that he might die scared the hell out of her.

Peyton: Momma, it's me Peyton. Daddy had two heart attacks and he's on life support…. Why mom? I need him. Please don't let him die. I can't manage without him. I'm with Brooke now momma. We wonder what you'd think about us… I love her so much. She makes me so happy. We have a baby girl and a 15 year old foster daughter. My life was perfect momma and now daddy's dying… I can't handle this and I know I'm going to push Brooke away and I don't want to do that. What am I going to do? I need you're help momma… Please save daddy, please.

Peyton continues to cry and she didn't hear the footsteps approaching her. All of a sudden a body sits next to her and wraps their arms around her. She jumps and then realizes it's Brooke.

Brooke: Baby, it's ok. Just cry… I'm here for you and I love you and I'm not going to let you go through this alone…

Peyton: (sniffling) How'd you know I was here?
Brooke: (kissing her forehead) How could I not?
Peyton: I can't lose him Brooke

Brooke: You're not going too.

Peyton: You don't know that

Brooke: Yes I do. He's going to have to wake up to meet his granddaughters and comment on our relationship. You know he's going to have an opinion about us! He'll probably freak out at first but then be happy about it!
Peyton: (Smiling for the first time at Brooke) He's not going to flip out baby. He probably already knows!
Brooke: It's going to be ok and I'm going to be here for you sweetheart as long as you want me here

Peyton: Why are you so good to me?
Brooke: Because I love you… You're my life and I need you

Peyton: I need you too Brooke and I love you too

Brooke: Haley's going to stay with us and Luke is going to watch Emma during the day so we can spend all of our time at the hospital once Papa Sawyer gets here

Peyton: Thanks Brooke

Brooke: Come on let's get home and wait for the hospital to call….
Peyton: Ok

Peyton gets up off the ground and helps Brooke up. They walk to Brooke's car.

Brooke: Did you walk here?
Peyton: Yeah
Brooke: Honey, it's on the other side of town that's a long walk

Peyton: I needed to think

Brooke: (wrapping her arm around Peyton) Come on I'll rub your feet when we get home
Peyton: (kissing Brooke) Thanks

The girls head home holding hands. Brooke is driving and looks over at Peyton who is falling asleep. Brooke knows that isn't going to happen much once Larry gets here. She just hopes Larry pulls through this all and she can keep her promise to Peyton….

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The house phone is ringing and no one is answering it. Sam jumps up and runs to grab it.

Sam: (sleepily) Hello?

She looks at the clock and realizes it's 4 in the morning. She listens to the person on the other end of the line.

Sam: Ok, I'll get her and she'll be right there.

Sam hangs up the phone and rushes out of her room. She heads down the stairs and into Peyton and Brooke's room. Both women are sleeping. Brooke has her arms wrapped around Peyton and they look perfect together. Sam felt bad for waking them up. Sam softly shakes Peyton

Sam: Peyton…

Peyton moves slowly and looks at Sam

Peyton: What's the matter, Sam?
Sam: The hospital just called

Peyton: I didn't hear the phone!
Sam: I answered it

Brooke: (waking up) What's the matter?
Sam: The hospital called.
Brooke: (springing up) what'd they say?
Sam: Grandpa Larry is 20 minutes from Tree Hill

Peyton: (looking at Brooke) Will you go with me?
Brooke: Of course baby. Let's get ready to go
Sam: I'll tell Haley in the morning

Brooke: Thanks sweetheart
Sam: Can I come by after school?
Peyton: I don't think that's a good idea
Sam: (looking sad) Ok…

Peyton: Maybe in a few days ok, honey

Sam: (hugging Peyton) It will be ok…

Peyton: Thanks sweetheart
Brooke: Let's get going P. Sawyer so we're there when Papa Sawyer arrives

Sam leaves the room and Peyton and Brooke get out of bed. They quickly get dressed and head to the hospital. Brooke is driving and Peyton is looking out the window. Brooke wants to reach out to her but doesn't know what to do so she just keeps driving. All of a sudden Peyton reaches over and grabs her hand. Brooke lets out the breath she didn't know she was holding. They held hands the rest of the way to the hospital.

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Peyton and Brooke are sitting in a waiting room outside of ICU. Larry had arrived at the hospital about 15 minute ago but the nurses had to get him settled before Peyton could see him. Brooke was holding Peyton's hand and Peyton let her. Peyton was trying really herd not to push Brooke away. Dr. Swartz walks into the waiting room.

Michael: Peyton, Brooke
Peyton: Dr. Swartz

Brooke: Hello

Michael: Mr. Sawyer is settled into his room now and you two can go in and see him. Remember family only. Brooke we're going to allow in only because you're married to Peyton but that's it. We can't allow anyone else into see him right now

Brooke: Thanks

Brooke and Peyton head down to Larry's room. Broke grabs Peyton's hand as she pauses outside the door.

Brooke: I'm right here baby

Peyton: I know… Thank you

Brooke: come on. Let's get this over with

Brooke pushes the door open and walks in followed by Peyton. Larry is laying in the bed. He looks pale and weak. He had tubes coming out of his mouth and nose. He has two IV's… one in each hand and wires everywhere. Peyton starts to cry. Brooke wraps her arm around her and leads her over to the bed. Peyton sits in the chair next to Larry's bed and Brooke pulls one over to sit next to her. Brooke just holds Peyton's hand while Peyton holds Larry's hand. They sit there in silence for a long time and tears just kept falling down Peyton's face. She just looked at her father. He looked so, so weak and she just wished he'd wake up

Brooke: Peyton…

Peyton: I'm ok Brooke
Brooke: Baby, do you want me to go get you some coffee or something to eat?
Peyton: Both would be great

Brooke: (leaning over and kissing her) Ok, I'll see what I can find. I love you, Peyt

Peyton: I know. I love you too

Brooke walks out of the room and when Peyton's sure she's gone she sits on the edge of her dad's bed and leans down to kiss him on the check. She pushes his hair off his face. She notices that he has dried spit on his face. She gets off the bed and walks to the sink. She wets down some towels and goes over to wash his face off. She makes sure his face is clean then she cleans off the dry blood off his hands. She didn't want him to be a mess. She then sits back on the bed and holds his hand. Tears falling down her face as she lays her head on his chest.

Peyton: daddy, please… please wake up. I need you and I can't do this without you. There is so much going on in my life that you don't know about. You have to wake up so I can tell you.

Brooke is standing in the doorway listening to Peyton

Peyton: I'm a mom now, dad! I have a little girl who is amazing and a 15 year old who is going to be the death of me… I'm in a great relationship and now it's not rakeboy but you do know the person… In fact, it's Brooke, dad. Before you say anything I love her, dad. She makes me extremely happy. We're living together in a house on the beach. We adopted our daughter together. Her name is Emma Kate. She's beautiful and she needs to meet her grandpa. Sam is our foster daughter but I'm pretty sure we're going to make her our daughter… Dad, please get up and talk to me….

Peyton is crying and Brooke walks in and sits next to her on the bed

Brooke: Baby, it's going to be ok….

Peyton: Brooke, look at him

Brooke: I know…

Dr. Swartz walks in and has a really bad look on his face. Peyton notices it and starts to cry harder.

Brooke: What is it?
Michael: Well we have the test results and it's not as bad as we thought but it's not good either

Peyton: Ok, just lay it on us

Brooke wraps her arms tighter around Peyton

Michael: Well he has a lot of blockage which caused the heart attacks in the first place. When he wakes up he's going to need triple by pass surgery and he is going to need someone to take care of him. He may never be able to return to his job again. It's too strenuous on his heart

Brooke: He can live with us!
Peyton: I can't ask that of you

Brooke: He's our dad of course he can stay with us. I love Papa Sawyer and I'll do anything to help him get better

Peyton: Is he going to wake up?
Michael: We don't know that yet but his stats are good so we have great hope

Peyton: Thank you

Michael: I'll be back to see check on him later… Peyton, just keep having faith

Michael walks out of the room and Peyton melts into Brooke's lap. She is crying even harder now. Brooke rubs her head and just lets her cry. She didn't know what to say.

Peyton: Brooke, what am I going to do?
Brooke: We're going to sit here until he wakes up!
Peyton: No, I want you to go home and be with the girls

Brooke: They're fine I'm staying with you

Peyton: But…

Brooke: No buts about it Peyt, I'm staying with you!
Peyton: Thanks

Peyton looks at her dad laying in the bed and just cries and cries. Brooke just holds her. She doesn't know what else to do. She prays that he wakes up soon.

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It's been a week and Peyton hasn't left the hospital room and she hasn't spoken to Brooke either. They had a fight a huge fight and since that night Peyton wouldn't even look at Brooke. Brooke felt so bad and wished she could fix it but Peyton wouldn't let her. She even had her removed from the visitors' list.

Flashback: It was the second night Larry had been in the hospital and Peyton was pushing Brooke away. Brooke was worried about Peyton and tried to express that but it came out badly.

Brooke: You have been in this room for two days, Peyton, you need to go home and take a shower or something
Peyton: I can't leave him Brooke!
Brooke: Peyton, this isn't healthy for you. You're going to get sick. I want you to home right now!
Peyton: Brooke, it's my dad what if he wakes up while I'm gone?
Brooke: I'll stay and call you. Emma misses you and so does Sam!
Peyton: They have you!
Brooke: Peyton, I want you to go home right now!
Peyton: And if I don't?
Brooke: (mad now and not thinking) You might not have a home to come back too!
Peyton: Go to hell Brooke!
Brooke: (trying to hug Peyton) I'm so sorry I didn't mean that

Peyton: Yes, you did. I can see it in your eyes. I'll tell you what why don't you go home and pack my shit for me and when my dad wakes up I'll come and get it. Maybe I can stay with Lucas! (Immediately Peyton thought "damn it, I shouldn't have said that")
Brooke: (tears in her eyes) Maybe you can! You can just go to hell too Peyton! I'm trying here but you're not making it easy
Peyton: I'm so sorry that this isn't easy for you. I forgot it's all about Brooke Davis!
Brooke: You're just upset you need to calm down
Peyton: You know what I need I need you to get the hell out of this room right now and don't bother coming back!

Brooke: Peyton, you don't…

Peyton: Get the hell out Brooke!

Peyton was crying and so was Brooke. Brooke left and when she came back she was told Peyton asked that she not be allowed back into Larry's room. That broke Brooke's heart…


Flashback ends

Brooke had been coming for 5 days sitting in the waiting room hoping Peyton would come out and talk to her but she didn't. Today Brooke was trying something evil. She had brought Emma. Maybe Peyton would come out to at least see her daughter. The nurse walks into Larry's room

Marge: Hey Peyton. Brooke's here again today

Peyton doesn't look up she just keeps holding her dad's hand. She had barely slept and she looked really bad. Brooke had brought her some clothes and the nurse gave them too her so she could at least have fresh clothes to wear. Peyton never left that room and the nurses had started bringing her food. She wouldn't eat hardly anything and she just sat there praying her dad would wake up.

Marge: Did you hear me?
Peyton: I don't want to see her! Tell her to go home

Marge: She brought someone with her today

Peyton: Who?
Marge: This beautiful little bundle of joy

Peyton: (looking up) Emma?
Marge: Yep

Peyton: can you bring her in here to meet my dad?
Marge: Nope but you can

Peyton: I don't want to see Brooke
Marge: I know you don't want to but she's been here every day and I'm tried of sending her away and watching her cry as she waits for the elevator and I'm tried of listening to you tell your dad how pissed you are at her but how much you need her

Peyton: Fine, tell Brooke I don't want to see Emma!

Marge: So now you're going to hurt your daughter too?
Peyton: Fine I guess I can't win with you can I?
Marge: Nope sorry

Peyton rolls her eyes and walks out of the room. She walks out of the ICU and into the family waiting room. She sees Brooke sitting there. Brooke looked horrible. She looked like she hadn't slept in days. Emma was crying and Brooke was trying to get her to stop. Peyton walks into the room and Brooke looks up at her.

Brooke: (Smiling) Peyton!

She stands up and rushes over to hug Peyton and Peyton pulls away. Brooke backs away slowly and starts to cry

Brooke: Why are you so mad at me Peyton? I'm sorry. I was wrong to act that way but it's been days and I miss you.

Peyton: Brooke, not now. I'm not dealing with you now!
Brooke: Then why did you come out here?
Peyton: To see Emma

Brooke: Fine (handing her Emma) here you go!

Peyton takes Emma and Brooke heads for the door

Brooke: So much for loving me forever!

With that Brooke slammed the waiting room door and crashed on the floor. Peyton just looked at their daughter with tears running down her face.

Peyton: Hey baby girl. Momma misses you so much. I'm sorry I haven't been home the last week. Your grandpa is really sick and I have to be here to take care of him. I love you though please, please know that.

Brooke opens the door and walks back in. She had composed herself and she wasn't letting Peyton get away with this anymore!

Brooke: You know what Peyton Elizabeth Sawyer! You are my girlfriend and I am not going to let you push me away! This is both of our problem and I want to help you! Stop being like this! You need me and I need you

Peyton: (crying) I don't need anyone

Brooke: You need our daughter. Look at you! You have a death grip on her and you know you need me too!
Peyton: no, I don't!

Brooke: Yes you do! So stop trying to be so damn brave!

Peyton started crying harder and Brooke walks over and wraps her arms around Peyton. This time Peyton doesn't resist and she collapses to the floor with Emma in her arms. Brooke goes to the floor with her and holds her while she's crying. Brooke just rocks her back and forth.

Peyton: Brooke, he's doing worse

Brooke: What?
Peyton: He's heart function is decreasing and he's doing worse. The doctor told me yesterday that if he doesn't wake up soon the damage to his heart will be too bad to operation and he'll probably die

Brooke: Baby, why didn't you call me?
Peyton: Because I was so mean to you and I didn't know what to do…I need you

Brooke: I'm here… Just let me in

Peyton: Will you come back in there with me?

Brooke: Can we take Emma in there?
Peyton: We're not supposed to but Marge said we could for a little while… Then we can take her home together… I need to get out of here

Brooke: ok, I'll take you home baby

Peyton: I'm so sorry, Brooke (crying)
Brooke: (crying too) Please don't push me away anymore…. I want to be here for you

Peyton: I know, I'm sorry please don't be mad at me anymore

Brooke: I'm not mad at you I'm just glad you came out today

Peyton: Me too… come on

Peyton gets up off the floor and grabs Brooke's hand they walk down the hallway together and into Larry's room. Marge smiles

Marge: It's about time you two made up

Brooke: I know I'm so glad

Peyton: me too. Any changes?
Marge: (looking down) I'm sorry Peyton

Peyton: Thanks

Marge walks out of the room and Peyton goes and sits on the edge of Larry's bed.

Peyton: Daddy, this is one of my girls. Brooke brought Emma by to meet her grandpa…. Please daddy wake up and meet her…

Peyton pleaded with Larry and it broke Brooke's heart

Brooke: Hi Papa Sawyer. How are you doing today?

Peyton: Daddy, Brooke's here to see you too. You always liked talking to Brooke. Wake up and talk to her please daddy

Brooke: Peyton, baby let's go home for an hour or so. This isn't good for you.

Peyton: (hugging Emma closer) How's Sam?
Brooke: She misses you

Peyton: Let's go home then… I need a shower

Brooke: Ok

They walk out of the room and to the nurses' station.

Peyton: Marge, I'm going to go home with Brooke for a little bite and take a shower and get some sleep. If there are any changes please call me

Marge: It's about time you got out of this damn hospital and I'll call you no problem. Brooke, make sure she eats.

Brooke: I will she's looking a little thin

Marge: She hasn't really eaten in days

Peyton: I'm standing right here!
Marge: Don't come back until tomorrow, Peyton! I mean it. He'll be fine today without you. You need a break

Peyton: I can't do that

Marge: You need a break

Peyton: I'll go home and how about I don't come back until after dinner?
Marge: Fine, deal

Peyton, carrying Emma, followed by Brooke walks out of the hospital. When they were outside in the parking lot Peyton turns around almost causing Brooke to crash into her.

Brooke: baby what's the matter

Peyton puts her free hand on Brooke's cheek and moves her lips softly to touch Brooke's. Brooke had missed the feel of Peyton so much so she quickly runs her tongue along the seam of Peyton's lips and Peyton opens her mouth. Brooke puts her tongue in Peyton's mouth and their tongues dance together. Not wanting to crush Emma but wanting to be closer to Peyton, Brooke moves to her side and wraps one arm around her. They stand there kissing for a few minutes before Brooke pulls away for air.

Brooke: God, I've missed that

Peyton: Me too and I really am sorry for being so mean this week

Brooke: It's ok baby. Let's just go home and you can take a shower and relax for a little while.

Peyton: Ok

They walk to the car and Peyton puts Emma in her car seat then gets in the passenger side. Brooke starts to drive and Peyton moves over and lays her head on her shoulder. She then wraps her arms around Brooke's arm and dozes off to sleep. Brooke kisses her forehead lightly and she drives, glad that her and Peyton had finally made up.

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When the front door opened Sam jumped off the couch. She was ready to console Brooke again. She told Brooke to just stay home and let Peyton cool down but Brooke wouldn't listen. She knew it would be another long night of telling Brooke how much Peyton loved her and that she was just going through a lot right now. Sam was surprised when Peyton walked in the door carrying Emma. Sam jumped off the couch and ran to the door wrapping her arms around Peyton

Sam: You came home!
Peyton: I need a shower

Sam: I've missed you… we all have

Peyton: I'm sorry kiddo. I didn't mean to leave you guys for so long I just couldn't pull myself away from my dad

Sam: It's ok. We just really miss you

Peyton: I miss you guys too

Sam: Why don't I take Emma for a walk so you can shower and get some sleep?
Peyton: No, I want you guys to stay here with me

Sam: Ok, are you hungry?
Brooke: She's eating! She hasn't eaten in days

Sam: I'll make something
Peyton: Could we order pizza?
Brooke: (smiling) Sure baby whatever you want

Peyton: (laying a sleeping Emma in her bassinette) I'm going to go take a shower

Sam: I'm going to go uptown and get the pizza because we're out of pop too and ice cream

Brooke: Where's Haley and Jamie?
Sam: Upstairs

Brooke: Why don't you see if Haley will take you and that way you don't have to walk

Haley and Jamie come bouncing down the stairs just then.

Jamie: (running and jumping into Peyton's arms) Aunt Peyton!
Peyton: (picking the little boy up) Hey Jamie how are you?
Jamie: I'm ok. How's Grandpa Larry? Is he still sleeping?

Peyton: Yeah he is

Jamie: I hope he wakes up soon

Peyton: Me too

Brooke: Haley, Peyt wants pizza and we're out of pop and Sam was going to go uptown

Haley: oh, Jamie and I were going to go get some ice cream

Sam: Me too

Haley: Well why don't we all go then
Sam: Let's take Emma too

Haley: Sounds great

Jamie: Yes, I love pizza!

Everyone laughs at the little boy and Haley, Jamie, and Sam carrying Emma walk out the door. Peyton sits on the couch.

Brooke: Thought you wanted a shower

Peyton: I do I'm just exhausted

Brooke: Why don't you rest here a minute and I'll run you a bath
Peyton: That sounds great, thanks Brooke
Brooke: You're welcome

Brooke heads down the hallway to the bathroom and Peyton closes her eyes on the couch. Brooke is gone maybe ten minutes and when she returns she finds Peyton sleeping. She smiles and kneels down on the couch next to her. She kisses her softly on the cheek and Peyton stirs. She looks at Brooke.

Peyton: Oh, sorry I fell asleep

Brooke: That's ok… I have your bath ready though

Peyton: Thanks

Brooke: You're welcome, come on I'll help you

Peyton: Want to take one with me?
Brooke: Really?
Peyton: I miss you Brooke…

Brooke: I miss you too baby

Peyton: Then come on

The two girls walk down the hallway and into the bathroom. Brooke quickly undresses and climbs into the steaming hot bubble bath. She smiles at Peyton. Peyton locks the bathroom door and quickly undresses and joins Brooke. Peyton fits right between Brooke's legs perfectly and leans against Brooke's chest. She looks up at Brooke and kisses her softly. Brooke looks into Peyton's beautiful green eyes and sees how scared she is.

Brooke: Peyt, are you doing ok honey? (using the sponge to wash Peyton's body)
Peyton: I'm ok Brooke. I wish I wouldn't have pushed you away all week. I feel so much better in your arms right now

Brooke: I'm here for you all you need baby

Peyton: (Snuggling into Brooke more) Thanks….

Brooke: Do you want me to wash your hair?
Peyton: Yeah that'd be nice…

Brooke washes Peyton head to toe and then she just lies in the bath tub with her arms and legs wrapped around Peyton. They stay like that for a while and then the water goes cold and Peyton starts to shiver.

Brooke: Are you ready to get out baby?
Peyton: yeah, I'd like to lie down for a while
Brooke: Ok…

Brooke leans Peyton forward and crawls out of the bathtub. She wraps herself in a towel and then holds one up for Peyton. Peyton gets out of the bath tub and Brooke wraps her in a towel she holds Peyton for a few minutes.

Brooke: Come on baby. Let's get you in bed

Peyton: I'd like that

Brooke: Ok

Brooke and Peyton walk out of the bathroom and into their bedroom. It was a mess.

Peyton: Brooke, what the hell?
Brooke: I've been a mess this week without…
Peyton: I'm so sorry honey
Brooke: I know its ok. I'll clean it up after you leave

Peyton: I was thinking we'd stay home tonight and head back to the hospital tomorrow

Brooke: (Smiling) you're going to stay here tonight?
Peyton: Is that ok? I really could use your arms wrapped around me tonight

Brooke: I'd love that

Brooke throws Peyton a t-shirt and a part of boy shorts and Peyton puts them on and then she crawls into bed. Brooke puts on a wife beater and a pair of boy shorts and heads for the door.

Brooke: Sleep tight baby

Peyton: Aren't you going to stay with me?
Brooke: do you want me too?
Peyton: Please

Brooke smiles at crawls into bed with Peyton. Peyton kisses her softly on the mouth. Brooke kisses her back. Peyton suddenly doesn't feel as tired and really just wants to feel Brooke. She's emotionally drained and just wanted to make love to her girlfriend… she wanted to do something that would make her happy

Peyton: Brooke, I know I've been a real bitch this week but I miss you and I was wondering….

Brooke crashed her mouth on to Peyton's hard and instantly rolled Peyton on her back crawling on top of her… She knew what Peyton needed and she was more than happy to give it to her. Brooke kissed Peyton hard and when Peyton pulled away for air she moved down to her neck. She found Peyton's spot and kissed it fiercely and Peyton moaned. Peyton's hands wrapped around Brooke's waist and Brooke continued to work Peyton's neck. Brooke then moved down to Peyton's stomach and started lifting her shirt up as she kissed her ways to Peyton's mouth. She took Peyton's shirt off over her head and started to kiss her again. Then she moved down Peyton's neck to her breasts. Brooke kissed around Peyton's breast and licked her nipple slowly. She then took Peyton's breast into her mouth and sucked on it hard, really hard… Peyton moaned and Brooke was getting wet just listening to the pleasure she was giving Peyton. Peyton lifted her hips and rubbed her area against Brooke's leg.

Brooke: Someone's in a hurry today!
Peyton: I just need you Brooke!
Brooke: And you have me baby

Peyton lifted her hips and Brooke slid her boy shorts off. Brooke started kissing up Peyton's leg and when she got to her private she started licking her slow and teasingly. She licked Peyton up and down for a few minutes until Peyton's hands come down and pushed Brooke's head a little

Peyton: Brooke please….

Brooke smiled and Peyton could feel her smile against her. Brooke quickly found Peyton's sensitive spot and started licking it. Peyton's body started to shake and tense and Brooke quickly inserted her digits into Peyton. She thrust them in and out while Peyton moved to match Brooke's hand. Peyton was feeling more pleasure and all the pain and sorrow from her dad being in the hospital was gone in that moment. All she could feel was her love for Brooke and the joy Brooke was causing her right now. Her body started to shake uncontrollably and she was about to come and Brooke worked hard and Peyton, not being the screamer, screamed out Brooke's name. She never did that like that and it made Brooke want to give her even more pleasure so she did and Peyton loved her for it. Finally Peyton was panting and coming down for the climax Brooke just caused her. Brooke went up and kissed Peyton softly and then wrapped her arms around her.

Brooke: You feel better now baby?
Peyton: That was amazing… Thank you

Brooke: My pleasure

Peyton: Well now it's your turn

Brooke: Nah, not right now. I'm good I just want to lay here with you and sleep

Peyton: Brooke….
Brooke: Really Peyton. Making you happy is enough for me right now. You need to sleep

Peyton: Thanks baby

Brooke: Let's get your clothes back on, we didn't lock the door

Peyton: Where are they?
Brooke: (looking around, laughing) your shirt is on the lamp and your shorts are…

Brooke gets up and throws Peyton her shirt and looks around for her shorts. She finally found them on the top of the dresser.

Peyton: Baby you have an arm on you

Brooke: I love making love to you so when you're clothes get in the way I have to get rid of them (throwing her shorts at her)
Peyton: Come back to bed now will you?

Brooke: Sure will

Brooke climbed into bed with Peyton and Peyton lays her head on Brooke's chest. Brooke wraps her arms around her and they drift off to sleep in a matter of minutes. For the first time since Larry has been in the hospital the girls are at peace because they are with each other.

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Sam and Haley are sitting on a bench at the park. Sam is holding Emma and Jamie is playing on the swings. Sam looks at her watch.

Sam: You think they've had enough time?
Haley: Yeah, we've been gone an hour and ½ so by the time we order pizza and get home it will have been 2 hours

Sam: I was so glad to see Peyton walk in that door tonight. Brooke has been lost without her

Haley: I know. I just hope everything turns out ok with Larry

Sam: Me too. I've never even met him

Haley: His an amazing guy

Sam: Well I hope I get to meet him

Haley: Me too

Sam: Is Peyton going to be ok?
Haley: I don't know Sam. She doesn't deal well with this kind of stuff and neither does Brooke. It's going to be a test for them and I'm afraid what is going to happen to them

Sam: I know my family's going to fall apart isn't it?

Haley: No, they both love you and Emma they won't ruin your family it might just be strained for a while…

Sam: I hope you're right

Haley: I am. How's your paper coming?
Sam: Oh I don't want to talk about school!
Haley: Ok deal. Jamie lets go!

Jamie runs over and they walk out of the park. Sam looks at Emma and kisses her softly.

Sam: I hope our family's ok baby girl.

Sam walks behind Haley just looking at her baby sister hoping her life would be better. She didn't want to lose Peyton and she could see Peyton was slipping away she could also see that Brooke was dying without Peyton. She hoped things would work out soon. She also hopes Larry would wake up.

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Brooke and Peyton were still asleep when Haley, Jamie, Sam and Emma got home.

Sam: You go in and wake them up!
Haley: Why me?
Sam: Who know what they were doing before they fell asleep

Haley: (laughing) Ok, I'll go get them

Haley walks down the hallway and to her friend's room. She knocks.

Brooke: (from inside) Yes

Haley: We're back
Brooke: We'll be right out

Haley walks back to the living room where Sam and Jamie were already eating pizza and drinking root beer. Haley laughs at the pair and joins them. Brooke and Peyton come out in their boy shorts and shirts rubbing their eyes. Peyton sees Emma in her swing and walks over and picks her up. She then sits on the floor leaning against a chair. Sam hands her a plate of pizza and Jamie hands her a root beer. Peyton smiles at them and takes it. Brooke grabs some food and sits down next to Peyton.

Haley: So are you going back to the hospital after dinner, Peyt?
Peyton: No, I'm staying home with my family. They said they'd call if there were any changes and frankly I can't take another night there I need a break

Sam: Can we have movie night then? (Smiling hopefully)
Peyton: Sure, that sounds fun

Haley: Well then little man and I will go home tonight but stop by to pick the kids up on our way to school
Peyton: No, you guys stay. We'll all hang out tonight and I think we'll take Emma with us tomorrow and then if you'll bring Sam after school that would be great
Sam: Really? You didn't want me there before

Peyton: I was trying to spare you the pain but the look on your face when I walked in tonight told me you need me more than you need to be spared from the pain so if you want you can come up after school and then we'll all come home again tomorrow night

Brooke: Peyt, are you sure?
Peyton: Yeah…. There hasn't been any change Brooke and as much as it hurts I need to face the reality

Brooke: Peyton, don't say that!
Peyton: Brooke…
Brooke: No, just stop!
Peyton: Ok…

They all ate their dinner in silence and then had a great time watching movies and dancing around the living room. Peyton was really glad for the distraction and the time with her family. Tomorrow she was going to make some decisions she didn't want to make but knew she had too… So tonight was just going to be fun!

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The doctor told Peyton she still had time and that was a relief for her. Now, Brooke is sitting next to Larry holding his hand. Peyton went to get some coffee and take Emma for a walk. Brooke insisted so she went. Brooke had a tear stained face.

Brooke: Ok, Papa Sawyer. You've had a long enough nap now. It's been a week and Peyton's getting a little worried. You need to wake up! I want to marry your daughter and she needs you to be at the wedding. We also want to shock you with the news we're together. Peyton's record company is awesome and you need to see that too. Come on Papa Sawyer open your eyes. We all need you.

Peyton walks back in and hears Brooke talking to her dad. She goes a sits next to her carrying a bag of food but no coffee

Peyton: Marge said when she's makes a pot of coffee she'll bring us some for now I got some diet cokes

Brooke: Thanks baby

Peyton: I just brought some munchies I'm not that hungry and you said you didn't care so….

Brooke: I'm not really hungry either. You know I was thinking if we started making out in front of your dad that might shock him into waking up!

Peyton: If you want to kiss me just do it

Brooke leans over and kisses Peyton hard on the mouth

Peyton: Brooke, what are we going to do?
Brooke: I don't know baby.
Peyton: If he doesn't wake up soon…
Brooke: He's going to… Don't worry. Let him hold Emma

Peyton: He's in a coma Brooke

Brooke: Let him!

Brooke got up and moved Larry's arm away from he's body and made a little nest on the side of his body. She then took Emma and laid her there. Brooke draped Larry's arm over Emma and Emma took his finger in her hand. Peyton smiled and Brooke was glad she made her happy.

Peyton: She looks happy there
Brooke: You look happy too

Peyton: I'm doing better

The door opens and Sam walks in. She sees Emma in Larry's arms.

Sam: That would be a cool picture

Brooke gives Sam a funny look

Sam: What?
Brooke: Peyton's dad is laying there on life support and you think that would be a cool picture?
Sam: Well not that part but Emma lying next to him is sweet

Peyton grabbed her bag and pulled out her sketch pad. She quickly started drawing her daughter and her dad. Sam pulled up a chair and sits next to Peyton. She took Larry's hand which surprised both Brooke and Peyton.

Sam: Hey Grandpa Larry. I'm Sam. I'm Peyton and Brooke's foster daughter. I just wanted to say hi. I have homework but I'm going to sit here a do it... I hope you wake up soon.

Peyton smiled at Sam and Sam sat back in her chair and pulled her homework out. Peyton was still sketching and draped he legs over Brooke's. Brooke was working on a proposal for Clothes over Bros and Emma had fallen asleep on the bed with Larry. Marge walked in and she smiled.

Marge: This is much better than last week Peyton
Peyton: Yeah it is. Have you met our daughter, Sam?
Marge: Yeah I'm the one that let her in here. I was going to check his vitals but since Emma is sleeping next to him I'll come back later

Peyton: Thanks.

Marge: Still want that coffee?
Peyton: Nah, we have diet cokes now

Marge: ok if you need anything…

Peyton: Thanks

Marge walks back out and Sam looks at Peyton

Sam: Peyt, can I ask you something?
Peyton: Sure kiddo what's on your mind?
Sam: If Grandpa Larry dies are you going to leave us?

Brooke's head snaps up and Peyton looks at Brooke confused. Brooke shrugs her shoulders and Sam just looks at Peyton.

Peyton: No! Why would you ask that?
Sam: Well… you just pulled away from us when this first happened and I noticed some of your old drawings and you drew a lot about people always leaving… so I wondered if you were going to leave

Peyton: You guys are my family and I'm not going anywhere. I'm sorry I went all emo on you but I'm trying now really I am.
Brooke: I know you are sweetheart
Sam: Me too. I'm just scared that you'll leave

Brooke: (looking at Peyton) I sort of am too…

Peyton: Oh, you guys I'm not going anywhere I'm sorry that I've been so crazy. I just want him to wake up…

Brooke: We all do

Sam: Yep, we do

Sam leaned over and hugged Peyton softly and then went back to her homework

Peyton: Sam, have you written your final for Hales class yet?
Sam: I'm working on it.

Brooke: Isn't it due at the end of the week

Sam: Maybe

Peyton: Are you ready to tell us what it's about yet?
Sam: Nope. When it's done you can read it

Peyton: Fine!

Sam laughs and finishes her math homework she's working on. Peyton finished her sketch of Larry and Emma and then she started sketching Brooke and Sam sitting in the hospital room. They spent the afternoon sitting quietly with Larry talking to him occasionally. Peyton had calmed down a lot and was getting used to the idea that Larry may never wake up. She knew that at least this time she's get to say good bye.

It was after six and the nurses were getting ready to switch shifts. Brooke stood up.

Brooke: You go ahead and stay baby I'm going to take the girls home and make them dinner and give Emma a bath.
Peyton: No, I said I was coming home and I'll come home. I don't want to stay here by myself not after having you here all day…

Brooke: (smiling) ok, are you ready then?
Peyton: Yeah, would you mind waiting for me outside for a minute

Brooke: No, come on Sam

Sam picks up Emma and they head for the door. Brooke kisses Peyton and follows them. Peyton gets up and moves to sit on the edge of the bed next to her father

Peyton: Daddy, I'm going home for the night. I love you. Did you like seeing my girls today? They are amazing… I will be back tomorrow daddy. Please, please wake up

Peyton kisses his forehead and hugs him softly and walks out of the room. Brooke and Sam are waiting for her. Sam wraps her arm through Peyton's and they leave the hospital. Today was a much better day then the last week and everyone was happy about that.

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It was 2 in the morning and no one in the Davis-Sawyer house was asleep. They were sitting in the living room watching a movie

Peyton: Sam, you should go to sleep you have school sweetheart

Sam: I'm not tired I want to be with you guys

Brooke: We just can't sleep

Peyton: When the movies over we're all going to bed!

Brooke: Deal

Brooke snuggled into the couch, Peyton into the chair and Sam on the floor. They just all wanted to be together at their house. The movie was coming to an end and Peyton was getting ready to get up when her cell phone started to ring. Everyone looked at her. She just looked at the phone and Brooke ran over and answered it.

Brooke: ok, thank you… Sure… I'll let her know… Ok, ok, we'll be right there.

Brooke hangs up the phone and looks at Peyton. Peyton had tears in her eyes. It couldn't be good if they were calling at this time.

Brooke: It's your dad Peyton. We have to get to the hospital right now

Peyton: What is it?
Brooke: They wouldn't tell me they just said get to the hospital now

Peyton: Ok, let's go

Peyton jumped out of her seat not even putting clothes on and grabbed her purse. Brooke followed her lead.

Sam: What about me?
Brooke: Can you stay with Emma?
Sam: Sure…

Brooke and Peyton rushed out the door and into the car. Brooke was pretty sure this was the end and tomorrow they'd be making funeral arrangements. She feared what was going to happen and she knew nothing good was going to come from this…. Peyton just sat in the car crying…

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A/N: Ok, so a little cliffhanger…. I'll try to post another chapter again this weekend. I'm really feeling this story right now and I can't stop writing it so I'll be posting as much as I can.

Let me know what you think.