Marry Me, Epilogue
A/N: After more than 100000 words, tons of encouraging and beautiful reviews, hours of thinking and writing, some lasting writer's blocks, and thousands billions of dollars earned… Okay, last part is completely made up…you all know I'm not getting money for it and I am cool with it.
Guys, there's only one thing I'm allowed to say: you were the motor of that story, the reason I started it and finished it. I know some of you are disappointed I ended it… I know how you feel, I always feel the same when I'm reading a book or a fanfic…or sometimes a movie… the last page is the hardest to read… and you have to know it's also the hardest to write. You clearly don't wanna disappoint and end it the better way you can. Though, I didn't cry yet, maybe I will once this chapter will be put on the site, or when I'll receive your last comments…
So, for the last time, here is chapter 21, now called the Epilogue. It is different from the other chapters as there are numerous flashbacks, parts of Lucas' third book and parts of mails between BP (written in italics). This '-----' means there is a separation between the part of the letter and the flashback. I hope this isn't too confusing… But try enjoying it though…
A Year and a half Later
Dreams of our Fathers
By Lucas E. Scott
Summary
Three years after the dramatic end of Life in Tree Hill and after a period of silence, we're finally hearing from Lucas, our young hero. Now 23 years old, he wants to start everything over. Things changed in his life… more money, less affection, a father still haunting his thoughts… and he does no longer believe in love… But then, he sees her…she's like a guiding light. He sees her and realizes she is the one for him. The one who fits in his life…the one he needs to reach his grace. But does she see the chemistry as well?
From: Brooke
To: Peyton
Object: Kids over inner needs
Hey Peyton! (And Jake and Kids)
We just got back from our trip in Europe with Luke and Octavia. We really enjoyed ourselves there; the countries are so beautiful and different from the US! We went to Paris, and god, I bought so many cool things. And then, we went to Tuscany and I bought like five different pairs of shoes in Florence…I just couldn't chose one pair over the other, it was crazy! Oh, and after that, we went to Greece and I think that's where I sunburnt… But don't worry, it's all tan now. Luke says it makes my eyes look even more stunning! He's such a smooth talker, lol!
-----
"Oh my Gosh Luke it's hideous!" Brooke complained loudly, glancing at her reflection in the bedroom big sized mirror. She was red like a crayfish and knew it was completely her fault since she had not allowed Lucas to put cream on her back.
Lucas nodded, visibly not interested and kept playing with Octavia, who was laughing in his arms. He felt Brooke's eyes on them and looked up, exasperated. "What?"
"My face…the tan skin… I look like I'm dirty or something…" She repined, putting her hands on her hips, obviously bothered by it.
"What are you talking about babe?" Lucas asked just for the sake of asking, playing with Octavia's fingers.
"My tan…it seems like there's a layer of grime on my cheeks."
"I think you look healthier and it's way hotter tan than your ordinary pale." Lucas reassured her with a small smile, his eyes now focused on her face.
"Oh?" Brooke paused for a second, not really convinced. Lucas nodded enthusiastically and Brooke smirked a bit. "You really do think that?"
"Yeah, it brings out your eyes. It's amazing…"
-----
I taught him how to surf while we where on the west coast in France. I mean try teaching him... I think the city name was Biarritz or something…anyway I have to admit he's comfier with a basket ball than with a surfboard! You should have seen him, my poor baby! Don't worry, I took loads of pictures and I sent them in enclosure. You're so gonna laugh at the sight of him trying to remain on the water!
-----
"Hey Luke, gimme a bright smile for the picture!" Brooke yelled than shot a photo with her new digital camera and smiled when she discovered the result in the screen. She stiffened a laugh and didn't realize Lucas was getting out of the water, surfboard under the arm. He was tired of getting a mouthful. "Oh I'm so sending this one to Hales and Nate. They're so gonna have a good laugh…" She said nastily laughing to herself. Lucas shot her a glare and collapsed on the sand at her feet, exhausted.
"I'm so beat!" He complained in a loud moan.
"I bet you are, gorgeous. Though you shouldn't feel too tired in the legs. You couldn't even stand one second on the water."
"Shut up…easier said than done. Plus, you're a California girl. You grew up a surfboard under the feet."
"Okay…I'll admit I'm talented… but you have to admit you're no good." Lucas sighed and haughty rolled his eyes at her. He didn't appreciate her mocking him about his questionable skills in surf. Brooke sat down next to him and watched as Octavia turned over in her sleep. She had placed the baby under the parasol so the sun wouldn't burn her delicate baby skin.
Lucas got up and rummaged through their cooler, trying to find something. He let out a sigh, realizing it wasn't in there. "Hey, where are my cookies? I was sure I had taken them…"
"Finder's Keepers, Loser's Weepers." Brooke only answered, grinning at the face he made. He was obviously not only disappointed but angry and bitter. She leaned over and gave him a small peck on the lips before running off towards the sea.
-----
Well anyway, how are things going for you? Did Nikki the bitch finally get over the fact Jenny didn't want to see her anymore?
-----
"I can't do this anymore Jake. I can't see her, she's… I don't know her. She's like a stranger to me now. All she talks about is Peyton here and then, and I know she'd likely be here with you and her than with me."
"Nikki…" Jake stopped, not knowing how to act. He was jumping inside but didn't want her to see his satisfaction. She was finally letting go of his daughter and he had to be careful. "Nikki, if you do this once again…"
"I know. But I'm pregnant Jake, and I wanna start over with Kyle. He's my family now." Nikki told him with a half smile. Of course, she wanted to get to know Jenny, but she knew the little girl didn't consider her as her mother… and it was a mutual feeling.
"If that's what you want to do?"
"Yeah, I'm sure. And I'm sorry for being such a bitch to you, and Peyton. I promise things will be different this time." She held out her hand for him to shake it. Jake pondered it, but finally held out his hand as well. They shook hands and smiled at each other.
-----
Also, I heard from Hales that Seth was now crawling on the floor to move. I think that's a good start… I'm sure he'll start walking in no time. Octavia now says words like pooh, or pee and dami (I realized I was swearing a lot and that my favourite word was Damn It, lol)… Hey, when Seth starts talking, don't forget to place Octavia's name in every conversation you can… I can't imagine how cute those two would be together. Plus, if they get married one day, we'll be bound forever. I already see us, babysitting our grandchildren together when we're older… Lucas says I'm crazy thinking I could set those two up one day… Time will tell but I won't lose hope. Those two are made for each other…
Oh, I can't believe I've got so many things to tell you! Anyway, Lucas' book will be out soon and since you're a friend, he said he'll send you a free copy! You absolutely have to read it! I ended it in three days and I have to tell you I was amazed by its strength. Hey, don't even say that, I'm not trying to sell it to you, BF!
Uh, oh, Lucas just walked into the bedroom and he's like scolding at me… I think he wants the laptop… He already started writing the scenario for that second movie he wants to do… If you want, I'm sure I can find you a small role in it…
Okay, I'm stopping right now or he'll kill me with his how so powerful glare,
Answer me ASAP Beauty Blondie!
Take care of you family and recharge your phone girl! You know how I prefer talking than writing emails…
I love you Bestfriend!
Ps: Oh, don't forget to say hi to your hot daddy for me!
And PS²: I might be pregnant again, lol!
Dreams of our Fathers
By Lucas E. Scott
Prologue
My name is still Lucas Scott. Maybe that's the only thing that did not change since the last time I talked to you. This is my third book and yet, I have got to relate so many things I did not tell in my previous novels. During years my biological father had a hold on me. Whether I wanted it or not. He had a hold on my actions, on my feelings, on my thoughts even when he was not physically standing next to him. And now… now things drastically changed. Today this strong, mighty hold, someone else gets it. Someone I can trust with all my heart, someone I know, someone I want, someone I love and who knows me, wants me and loves me as well.
The shadow behind my back has left. There is a light instead, a soft caress that pushes me in the right directions. I am finally taking the path I always dreamt I would take. The path my father never dared thinking I would take.
I dedicate this book to my wife Brooke, and also to Octavia, my baby girl. You two are the best things that happened in my life… and you will always be in my heart, whatever happens in the future.
I also dedicate this book to my parents, Karen and Keith Scott. I love you both equally and I am clearly aware that if I reached this point of happiness in my life, it is thanks to your magnificent way of reigning over your children (laughs).
Next, I wanted to mention a couple of friends and family I know will always be there to support me:
Abby, my little sister, I promise I'll always act as a protective big brother, even when you're past eighteen. I love you baby, always.
Haley, my bestfriend and sister in law. I don't know where I would have been today without you. You are my angel on earth.
Nathan, my brother who shares my passion for basketball. I love you man and I am proud of you. Keep playing for us both.
Mouth, Rachel and Lips, you guys are like a part of the family. Mouth, I love you like a brother and I am glad we are friends, Rachel, stop hitting on me every time I call the agency and Lips…stop crying. (laughs)
Skills, Bevin, you guys are incredible. I know you will always be there for your friends. Bevin, don't worry about gaining weight, pregnancy suits you magnificently. And Skills, do not forget to come to the Rivercourt next Saturday. I hate being stood up, dawg.
Fergie, my friend, I love you. Thanks for being so…special! I cannot believe you are finally getting hitched with someone after all this time…
Jake, Peyton, and their two children Jenny and Seth, I am so glad we met. You guys are one of the best encounters I had in my life. Oh, and Peyton, try convincing Brooke not to set up a marriage for Seth and Octavia…I do not know where she's got that crazy idea to play matchmaker with our children.
Tim, man, you finally got the right girl for the Dim! I hope she enjoys your ever so unique personality.
Thanks also to Marcus and Jane, my editors, to Danni, my corrector, to my grandparents, to Sophie, to Mickey my dog which's always running away, to my laptop, which I named George, which didn't bug once while I was writing, to Dan who got me a good subject to write about…without all the drama this story wouldn't have been good. Thanks also to every person who works for the publishing house, thanks to Danna, to Frank, to Sebastian, to Evan, to J.J. and to every person who was there at the right moment.
Finally, a special thanks to Whitey, you are still here in my heart and I will always be grateful for what you've done for me. You're a Legend here in Tree Hill and I intend to keep it this way.
From: Peyton
To: Brooke
Object: RE: Kids over inner needs
Brooke,
I'm sorry you couldn't join me on the phone. Jake told me they had to cut the electricity to work on the bathroom lights or something. The villa is beautiful, you have to come seeing it now the works are almost over. I'm sending photos of the house, inside and out so you can tell me what you think about it. I did the décor all by myself, lol!
-----
"Hey guys, you can walk in now." Peyton was half excited, half anxious to hear about their thought about the decoration of their house. They had bought it a little while later as they had realized their apartment wasn't big enough for their two children.
"Whoa mommy, it's beautiful!" Jenny exclaimed and hugged her mom, wrapping her arms around her waist. Peyton smiled warmly at her daughter and patted her head softly.
"I'm glad you like. I did a special painting in your bedroom too. C'mon, I can't wait for you to see it!"
"Peyton, is that us on the painting?" Jake asked amazed at his wife's skills. Of course, he already knew of her talent but he couldn't help being dumbfounded.
"Yeah, I thought it would personalize the room. So, what do you think? You didn't tell me."
"I love it Pey…you're the best." Jake leaned over and shared a quick kiss with his wife. Jenny smirked at the little display of affection and pulled Peyton by the hand.
"Ew, let's go to my room mommy!"
-----
Anyway, I don't know if you are excited about being pregnant again… you know what it means… morning sickness, switching moods, gaining weight, enormous boobs, and after the delivery…diapers, cries, diapers, breastfeeding, diapers, cries…and so on…Boy, you're gonna have fun...
-----
"Lucas?" Brooke placed her head on his chest and looked up at him.
"Um?"
"I think we're pregnant again. I know we didn't expect it or something and I'm still wondering how it did…happen…" Lucas smirked at her and wickedly said:
"I think we both know how it happened, honey." Brooke laughed a bit, shoving him in the chest softly.
"I just…I've been feeling bad lately and I haven't even had my period yet and it's not normal, I should have had it last week… And this morning, I like threw up all my breakfast… I promise I loved it though, you cook like a real chef, it's just, I don't know… like…"
"Okay Brooke, take a deep breath… It's okay, I'm not mad." He reassured her, stroking her arm gently.
"You're not? I mean, really, not even a tiny bit?"
"Look, I promise I'm fine with it… I'm actually not really surprised by your revelation. You've particularly been a pain in the neck the last two weeks and I don't know… I just felt something was different…" Brooke pulled away and looked at him slightly worried.
"I'm not even sure I am… I called the doctor's office this morning… I have an appointment tomorrow. Could you… Are you free to go with me or should I ask…"
"Brooke, that'd be my pleasure. Of course, I'm going with you. I wouldn't miss it for the world." He closed the gap between them and kissed her softly, tenderly.
-----
So, I read Lucas' book, and well, I loved it, loads of drama and all… he pictures you perfectly… I'm glad you married him, sister…he's perfect for you.
About Seth and Octavia, I'm not sure they belong together. Firstly, they barely know each other and didn't seem to get along that well… Did they even share a kiss? Big LOL!
I'm glad your Europe Trip was great and I bet you had fun with the shopping. Oh, I received your postal card and also the box which was with it. Jenny was so happy to wear the clothes, they were amazing! Thanks again… Oh, Jake says it's my time bathing Seth! I have to go! Oh, anyway, I'll try calling you the day after tomorrow…once the phone lines are reconnected.
I love you Brooke Penelope Scott. Say hello to Eugene for me, lol! Oh, by the way, you were wondering the other day what Jake's second surname was: it's Hector; I bet that's not better than ours, uh!
Love,
Your Goldilocks!
Ps: Oh, and I heard something about Rachel Mc Adams and Ryan Gosling playing yours and Lucas roles in Lucas' movie, is it true? Because that'd be so cool! Like having the Notebook all over again!
Dreams of our Fathers
By Lucas E. Scott
Biography of the author
L.E. Scott started writing his first bestseller entitled 'The Rivercourt' while being in his senior year of high school. After his college graduation, his second book was published and was received with the same appreciation. His books are translated in more than 20 different languages and he appears to be one of the most successful and talented writers of his generation. Now married to a successful clothes designer and father of a little girl, he aspires to write different things, like movies scripts or short novels, less based on his personal experience.
From: Brooke
To: Peyton
Object: RE: RE: Kids over inner needs
Goldilocks,
I just got your mail, and I just wanted to say…that I was well pregnant! OMG, I just learned it like ten minutes ago and you're the first person I got to tell! I had to refrain myself from jumping and screaming out loud since Octavia is asleep! OMG P. Jagielski I'm so excited! Look, I have to go see Lucas on shooting to break the news to him.
Loads of Kisses,
B.P. Scott
PS: Oh about Rachel and Ryan, you are so right! Lucas's still hesitating between Rachel and an other woman but I'm trying to make him choose the right girl, lol!
-----
"Hey you! Where's Octavia?" Lucas wrapped one arm around Brooke's waist and kissed her lingeringly. Brooke moaned, opening her lips so he could slide his tongue inside. "I wasn't expecting to see you before tonight. Not that I don't like the little surprise. What's up?" He asked as he pulled away and then kissed his wife's cheek softly.
"Well, I left her to your mom, who gladly accepted to keep her until dinner. I have some good news…" Brooke announced with a wicked smile as she realized he clearly had no clue.
"Really? What's up?"
"I'm with child…" She giggled and Lucas' face brightened. He let out a breath as he came to the realization they were going to be parents again.
"Seriously?"
"Uh, uh…" Brooke let out a squeal and Lucas hugged the love of his life. He lifted her from the ground and swirled her around.
"That's…amazing babe, I'm so…I'm so happy right now!" He let out rather loudly, exposing his happiness to everybody who was in the studio. Brooke smiled, her dimples clearly appearing. Brooke leaned forward and brushed her lips softly on Lucas'. He wrapped his arms around her once again, pulling her in closer as their kiss deepened. His tongue begged for entrance to her mouth, and she allowed it gladly.
Before they both knew it, they were giving a show to the people working on the shooting. They both turned their heads when they heard laughing. Lucas blushed softly and Brooke giggled, turning to him. "I love you." She whispered the sacred words ever so softly as if they were forbidden to be listened by the others.
"I love you too, Brooke Penelope Scott." Lucas kissed her again, not wanting to ever let her go.
Dreams of our Fathers
By Lucas E. Scott
Epilogue
I would have never imagined something like that between us. Of course, I was attracted and I felt a spark fly when we met. I knew I could easily fall in love with her…which was scary, yet so tempting. Sometimes, I thank people or things I shouldn't thank. I am grateful I met Anna or that Dan was my biological father… Either way I would not have been who and where I am today. I would have not met Brooke if Anna hadn't broken off the engagement. I wouldn't have met Brooke if Dan had been someone different and more loveable because I would have never written the Rivercourt. That is why I feel grateful of their actions, even if they brought me pain and hurt in the past. I guess I had to go through it all to find happiness and love…
The End
Reviews' answers:
I was really sad to end up this story, yet I felt kinda relieved I did… Not because I had no pleasure in writing it anymore, but I wanted to end it when people still liked it. I know some of you wanted me to keep on writing it, or to do a sequel. But I don't think I will do it…maybe an oneshot but not a several chapters story.
I also know some parts of the story weren't that good; I am well aware my writing's not perfect and I am really pleased to see it didn't keep people from reading it. I loved all the comments you guys ever made, they were all read positively and appreciated.
Oh, and don't worry, I'm not ending this story without my last reviews answers… But I will read them after you review this chapter… and I'll also give you the titles and summaries of my upcoming stories.
