Some Truths Hurt

by jenwin23

Jumping off point: V gets Duncan's journal in Echolls' Family Xmas. AU from there but many canon events happen too. All characters in the VM-verse make an appearance, but it is a LoVe story. In script format-but give it a try, it's well written.

21. Chapter 20 Push & Pull

Disclaimer: Still not mine. But I promise to take good care of them while I play.

Thanks for all the reviewers. 300+ reviews!!

AN: Many cannon events, albeit in a slightly altered order are in the story. I'm skipping over things that happened on the show so unless I specifically change it or negate it assume it happened. I worked out the whole timeline for the story at least through the end of their junior year, and I moved lots of stuff around. I'll try to include bits as they happen so you can follow along.

This story so far recaplet: Cannon up until Echolls Family Christmas. Veronica copied Duncan's laptop hard drive and is reading his journal. Connor and Veronica were dating for awhile, until she and Logan finally managed to work through their issues enough to start dating. Veronica has a paternity test and is a Mars, Duncan wants to date her again, awkwardness ensues. LoVe investigates the rape and the truth is revealed (but is it the whole truth?). Wallace and Alicia know about the rape as well. Keith investigated who was supplying the tabloids pictures of Aaron's affairs and traced the photos back to a friend of Lynn's. After Aaron confronted Lynn she tried to commit suicide but Logan found her and got her to the hospital. Veronica is at Logan's side, but he breaks up with her convinced that she would be better off away from him. Dick and Logan's friends have a surprising response to the breakup. Lynn disappears out of the hospital and Logan asks V to find her. Enbom has a crush on Mac. Meg and Dick team up to get LoVe back together. Logan and V are working together to find Lynn but Logan is being a jackass. A report has Lynn jumping off the bridge but Veronica finds out her credit card was used after she supposedly jumped. Logan's grandma comes to town. Logan is in turmoil—being mean to Veronica to keep her away (and because he's jealous as hell) and missing her like crazy. Veronica is nearing the end of her patience with his jackassery.

A few things to clarify:

The Aaron not calling Lynn after she disappeared thing was supposed to mean that either he took her from the hospital and maybe did something to her (red herring) (why would a killer call the person they killed after they're dead—unless they're smart) or he just didn't ever consider calling Lynn to ask where she was instead he was doing damage control and playing the traumatized husband for the media.

Several comments show a growing anger at Logan, while I think that is justified, keep in mind recent events:1) He finds out his best friend (who he inadvertently drugged) had sex with an also drugged Veronica at a party where Logan encouraged his friends to do body shots off of her. 2) The next day he finds his unconscious mother after a suicide attempt 3) he has to deal with the fact that his mother tired to abandon him to his abuser by killing herself 4) he broke up with Veronica trying to be noble basically leaving himself without any emotional support 5) his mother disappears from the hospital and she is assumed dead, abandoning him again 6) everywhere he looks guys are after Veronica (remember those scenes are told mostly from Logan's point of view—every guy he sees is after V) and he's a jealous fool, and 7) he's 17.

Chapter 20

(Tuesday, continued)

Standing outside the school Veronica's hair is turned into a yellow halo by they bright sunlight. In that moment Logan thinks she just might be an actual angel. His mouth smirks a bit, a fallen angel, but still an angel. She looks at him worriedly watching the rapid series of emotions flicker over his face and he tries to hide his emotions from her searching eyes.

Veronica: That's good news. Finally.

Logan: Yeah.

Veronica: It's the only card she has that is still in her maiden name. No-limit platinum card.

Maybe she is trying to hide.

Logan looks hopeful and sad that she might be hiding even from him.

Logan: My mom's weapon of choice.

Veronica: I wonder why the charge didn't post to her account until today? And we need to know what she bought.

Logan: We do?

Veronica: Any information could be valuable at this point Logan.

She looks at the name of the shop in her text messages then looks it up on her phone's web browser. She reads aloud for Logan.

Veronica: Blue Bee Luxury. Upscale clothing from designers found only in the world's most exclusive boutiques.

Logan: Sounds like Mom.

Veronica dials a number.

Veronica: Yes, I was hoping you could help me. (brisk efficient tone) My name is Claudia, and I'm Lynn Lester's personal assistant and I need to request a copy of her receipt from March 9. She lost her receipt and we need it for tax purposes. (listening) Yes. Uh-huh. Right for $19, 593 dollars and change. (listening) Yes. Can you fax that too me? (laughs) I know. I was worried about the charge at first because I know Lynn's not in Santa Barbara today so when I saw the charge post…(smiles) Oh, that's funny. Your whole system went down? Computers, can't live with them, can't live without them. Yes thanks you Holly. I'll look for the fax.

She hangs up.

Veronica: Well, we'll know soon enough what she bought.

Logan looks grateful and for the first time in days actually looks at Veronica. She looks tired.

Logan: Veronica. Thanks for doing this. Really. I don't know what I would do if you didn't…

With a quick glance round, Logan puts his hand on Veronica's arm and kneads her arm a couple of times gently. Veronica looks up at him and is feeling sympathetic. She is equally gentle when she nods her head and smiles.

Veronica: It's ok. I know what it's like.

Logan: Yeah.

Logan stares at her for a moment, then returns the small smile, nods, and moves off, hands in pockets. Veronica marvels at the exchange with a smile and a shake of the head before heading to her car.

After Veronica leaves the school she drives to Neptune Memorial and into the underground parking garage. The guard she had talked to before waved her in with a smile. Instead of going into the hospital she walks over to him and greets him with a friendly smile.

Guard: No paparazzi today?

Veronica: No, I guess I'm not media worthy on my own. Hey, do you normally work on Wednesdays?

Guard: Yeah. Monday through Friday 8 to 6.

Veronica: How about last Wednesday?

Guard: Sure.

Veronica: You remember the guy I was with last week?

Guard: Yeah.

Veronica: Logan Echolls, his mom was here after…

Guard: Yeah I saw that on the news.

Veronica: I was hoping you might have seen her.

The guard doesn't answer.

Veronica: Logan is really torn up about his mom being missing, and with all the media reports about…well, we know she left the hospital without being seen by the media.

Guard: Oh.

Veronica: So I figured she might have left through here.

She smiles winsomely at him and looks sad and sincere.

Guard: Yeah, I think I saw her. Some guy in a nice convertible pulled in here. I tried to get to him to tell him he couldn't park here, but he just ignored me. He came back out about half an hour later with a woman. I can't be sure, because she was wearing a hat and big sunglasses, but it could have been Lynn Echolls.

Veronica: Thanks. Really. That's so much help.

Guard: No problem. Just don't tell nobody I told you.

Veronica: (smiles) My lips are sealed.

She turns to go with a grateful smile, then pauses and turns back.

Veronica: (offhandedly, deliberately casual) Was the guy in the convertible Aaron Echolls?

Guard: No. I don't think so. He was wearing a suit and was a taller than I am.

Veronica smiles and assesses his height to be about 6 foot.

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Leaving the hospital, Veronica drives across town to an older neighborhood full of custom Spanish style and craftsman houses. She rings the bell outside a tall gate. Susan Knight is surprised to see Veronica. Veronica tells her that she knows Susan had the affair with Rooks, not Carrie. Susan steps out from behind the door and is noticeably pregnant. She says her parents disowned her because she wouldn't reveal the father of her child. She knew they'd press charges for statutory rape, and she didn't want that. Susan says that when she told Rooks she was pregnant, he gave her $500 so she could take care of it. Carrie thought his actions should have consequences, but Susan wasn't brave enough to come forward. Veronica convinces Susan to call Jessica Fuller, the school board president and tell the real story. Susan reluctantly agrees.

---------------------------

(Wednesday)

Scene opens on Veronica's history class. She sits next to Carrie and in front of Wallace as the class waits for Rooks to enter. He's late. Instead, Clemmons enters. He tells the class Rooks resigned and that he'll be taking over until a replacement is found. He's interrupted when Rooks walks in to get his things. He looks balefully at Veronica and leaves. Carrie gives her a small smile.

----------------------------

Cut to Veronica walking with Wallace towards their lunch table.

Veronica: No offence but you look odd.

Wallace: I just watched our parents cuddle on the couch last night. My eyes…they burn.

Veronica: Any idea what our parents do Mondays and Wednesdays from six to ten that requires an overnight bag?

Wallace: As far as I'm concerned, they play bingo at the VFW. That's my story, I'm sticking with it.

Veronica: Best way to deal with things like this? Pretend they don't exist.

Wallace: (looking traumatized) They don't exist?

Veronica: Deal.

At the 09er table Logan watches Veronica walk by with regret and yearning. Veronica and Wallace sit down to eat and she asks him what he'll do once basketball is over. Wallace replies that he plans to go out for track.

Veronica: You just can't stand to lose the adulation of your adoring fans. I see how you are.

Wallace: You don't even know if I'm any good, or what events I might do.

Veronica: I don't need to ask. I know you. You're good at everything.

The friends smile at each other.

--------------------------------

Cut to an outdoor sports field. Dick and Luke are standing in the school's baseball field's dugout. Luke looks doubtful.

Luke: Dude, I don't know.

Dick: No way. This is an awesome plan. It'll work.

Luke: If Logan finds out…

Dick: He's not gonna find out. Listen. You said yourself she looked all happy and shit when you told her Logan sent you over to get her away from the new kid. And you should have seen his face this morning when she walked past. They just need a little push.

Luke: (shrugs) Alright, but if you mess up, this is on you, I had nothing to do with it.

Dick: Pussy.

Luke: You realize that both Veronica and Logan will be after you if they find out it was you.

Dick: (looks doubtful, then it clears to a grin) Whatever man. What could go wrong?

-----------------------

Later that afternoon Dick wanders through the empty parking lot. He takes a crowbar out of his truck and walks over to Veronica's car. Then he raises the metal bar and smashes it down on her windshield, cracking the glass heavily. A few more hits and Dick stands back to survey his handywork.

Dick: That'll do her.

Weevil: (from behind Dick)Think again homie.

Dick: (startled, spinning around to see Felix, Hector and Weevil) What…

Weevil: That is my question. As in what the fuck are you doing? I think I've made it very clear that you assholes are not to mess with Veronica.

Felix: Very clear.

Hector: Claro.

Dick: (hand up in surrender) No dude, you don't understand.

Weevil: (condescending) Then explain it to me, cause it seems pretty obvious.

Dick: I wasn't actually smashing her window.

Weevil: (looks at the ruined glass) Then what do you call it?

Dick: I was setting her up. Her and Logan.

Weevil: (looking at his friends) I think the gringo has gotten to much sun. He's not making any sense.

Hector: (meanly) Maybe we should help him out.

Weevil: Knock some sense back into him? I like the way you think Hector.

Felix: Alright. Time to have some fun.

Felix and Hector surround Dick who looks scared despite trying not to.

Weevil: Wait, first he pays for her car. Hand it over.

Dick: (pulling $200 out of his wallet) Three of you against me, how is that fair?

Weevil: A 200 pound man against a tiny little girl?

Dick: I didn't hurt her.

Weevil grabs his wallet and liberates another $300.

Dick: Dude her whole car is worth less than $500.

Weevil: $250 to fix the windshield, and $250 for my finders fee.

The camera pans away as Weevil lands the first punch.

-------------------------------

After school Veronica walks out to find the spot where she parked her car empty. She stops and stares blankly.

Veronica Voiceover: Well this is new. As pranks go, a bit more involved than they usually go in for.

Logan exits the school with Luke. Luke looks around for the crowd he assumes will be surrounding Veronica's car. To force Logan's attention to her Luke waves.

Luke: (yells) Hey Veronica.

She looks at him curiously and waves briefly then stands there wondering what to do. She really, really doesn't want to have to call Lamb. A loud engine rumbles closer to her and she sees Weevil on his bike. He flips up the visor on his helmet and nods to Veronica.

Weevil: You lose something?

Veronica: Yeah. I guess I did. You know anything about it?

Weevil: Maybe I do.

She walks forward.

Veronica: (head tilt) Where's my car?

Weevil: Would you believe that a big dumb Do-Do bird fell on it?

Veronica: (one eyebrow raised) A Do-Do bird?

Weevil: Yep.

Veronica: And where is my car now? Did the bird fly away with it?

Weevil: Of course not. I called my uncle to come get it and have it fixed.

Veronica: (weary)And how much damage did the Do-Do cause to my car?

Weevil: Yeah, well the thing is the Do-Do felt bad and offered to pay. So don't worry about it.

They stare at each other.

Weevil: Climb on.

He holds out a helmet for her and she takes it from him.

Veronica: Can we make a pit stop? I need to go to the Arco on Euclid.

Weevil: Your car is missing and you need a gas station?

Veronica: I need the surveillance video from the gas station. The owner said I could pick it up today.

Weevil nods and Veronica slides behind him. Logan watches with clear jealousy and a little anger.

--------------------------

Cut to Mars Investigations office. Veronica and Weevil watch the gas station surveillance video. She freezes it on the image of a woman that she assumes is Lynn and a man that could be Aaron Echolls. The video isn't clear but it's enough to confirm her suspicions. Her eyes narrow and she thinks it over. She does a quick google image search for Tom Barger and compares him to the man in the video. She lets out a relieved sigh, she's pretty sure Tom Barger took Lynn out of the hospital. And she thinks she knows how to prove it. At least that meant that Aaron Echolls was only guilty of being a self obsessed and selfish man who didn't call his missing wife instead of being the number one suspect in her disappearance. She turns to Weevil and asks for one more ride.

Weevil drops Veronica off the Echolls estate, taking her in through the back gate. A few paparazzi look at them curiously but don't bother taking pictures as both Weevil and Veronica's identities are hidden behind the helmet's visors.

Weevil's grandma lets her in and informs her that Mr. Logan is in the gym. Veronica walks back hearing the clanking sounds of metal hitting metal. Entering the room she sees Logan working his legs on a weight machine. She clears her throat to let him know she is there. He glances at her with cold eyes, then walks to the free weights rack and starts doing an over head triceps exercise without saying a word.

Veronica sighs nosily and moves into the room.

Veronica: Well, hello to you too Logan. You look busy. I've been busy too. Yeah, I found out something about your Mom. I know you said you wanted to know anything that I found out.

She smiles and waits. He slides his eyes over her again and she can clearly see the anger.

Logan: (smiling manically) I'm surprised you had time, what with your busy schedule of juggling guys. My, my it would be difficult for someone to figure out what your type is. I mean let's think…oh yeah, there was me I guess I'd be classified as a bad boy. Duncan, the good boy. Does he still count as a good boy, or has he fallen off the pedestal you always had him on? Troy, another bad boy. Connor, I guess he might qualify as a good boy.

She stares at him as he rants.

Logan: Then there's Dominic, humm, he's a player. Weevil, a gang member. Casey, good guy? I don't know. Mike, another player. I mean except for Weevil the only thing all these guys have in common is that they're rich.

Veronica: (anger controlled into a bright faux smile) You forgot Leo. (raises her eyebrows) You know, Deputy Leo. You met him, right?

Logan: (curtly) Yeah.

Veronica: (dropping the smile) I thought I made it clear that you aren't allowed to make comments about my personal life Logan.

Logan: It's hardly personal when you're out with a new guy every day.

He moves closer and stands towering over her. She pushes him away, but he grips her arms to keep her close.

Veronica: Let go.

They glare at each other.

Logan: You should be used to being manhandled if you're hanging out with Weevil.

Veronica: (angry) Let go. Now. You don't have the right to touch me anymore Logan.

When he doesn't let go she abruptly shifts and slams her knee into his groin. He releases her and falls to his knees in agony. She stares at him grimly.

Veronica: I need a ride to LA to talk to your Mom's agent. If you can scrape yourself off the floor and manage to keep your mouth shut for the entire time we're not talking to him you can drive me. I'll wait for you for 15 minutes then I'm gone.

Logan's response is a grunt.

Veronica sweeps out of the gym and into the kitchen. She checks the time on her cell phone and calls Wallace to see if he can get his Mom's car. Mrs. Navarro turns to her curiously, waiting for Logan to appear. Off the phone with Wallace, she smiles at Mrs. Navarro and rolls her shoulders to release some tension.

Veronica: Hi Mrs. Navarro.

Letty Navarro: I made some cookies, Miss Veronica, if you would like some.

Veronica: (smiles) You know I love your cookies.

Mrs. Navarro hands Veronica a plate of warm chocolate chip cookies and a glass of milk.

Letty Navarro: Are you waiting for Mr. Logan?

Veronica: Humm. Actually, he might need some ice.

Letty Navarro: Ice?

Veronica: (smiles angelically) Actually an ice pack. He hurt himself.

Letty Navarro: (confused) Ok.

Veronica eats the cookies, savoring each one blissfully as Mrs. Navarro crushes some ice into a towel leaves the kitchen.

Fifteen minutes later Logan walks slowly and stiffly out to the front driveway to find Veronica waiting impatiently. He glares at her but doesn't say a word. She smiles up at him happily and follows him to the garage where the Xterra is parked.

Veronica: You don't have to come, Logan, I can handle this on my own.

Logan: I'm coming. I know agents, you might need some help.

Veronica: (she looks doubtful) Alright. Let's get this bananna mobile on the road.

Logan pointedly doesn't open the door for her and starts the car and backs out without waiting for her to get her seatbelt on. She smirks and stares straight ahead. Logan glares at her again and faces forward not looking at her for the next hour.

In LA Logan parks outside the high-rise that houses CAA, Lynn's agent's office is on the higher floors where the bigger offices of the higher paid agents reside. Several of the agents and office staff pause to look at Logan as he and Veronica are escorted back to Tom Barger's office. Before they enter Veronica turns to Logan and whispers.

Veronica: You take the lead on this one.

Tom Barger is tall with a lithe build. He has a full head of dark brown hair, a little long for

Veronica's taste and a deep brown tan. He welcomes Logan with a guarded friendliness, and Veronica is on high alert for signs of lying. Logan explains that they are looking for Lynn.

Tom: Why would you think I would know anything more than you do Logan?

Veronica narrows her eyes, he's defensive. And he didn't immediately ask why Logan doesn't think she jumped. Either being sensitive or he knows she didn't.

Logan: I know you visited her several times in the hospital. I thought she might have said something to you.

Tom: I already told your Dad's assistant all this.

Logan glances at Veronica who maintains a slightly dumb and wide-eyed expression.

Tom: We talked about her working again. (he sits back and looks to the side of his office where a large orchid dominates a side table) I thought she might feel better with a project to concentrate on. Your Mom is a wonderful actress.

Logan: Yeah.

Veronica notes the present tense of 'is a wonderful actress.'

Tom: And of course there have been so many interview requests. As her agent I have a duty to relay all requests and job offers to my clients.

Logan looks at Veronica waiting for her to jump in but she smiles sweetly and looks innocent and out of her depth. He narrows his eyes, then looks back at Tom.

Tom: Well if that's all….

Logan: No…

Veronica: (sad pout) We had so much hope that Lynn might have told you something, (heartfelt) anything that would help us figure out what happened. (her eyes fill with tears) Logan just wants to believe his Mom is alive and she always spoke so highly of you, he though since she trusted you so implicitly…(she blinks rapidly)

Logan looks incredulous, but he clears his face into blank concern when she mashes her heel into his foot.

Logan: Yeah.

Tom: Well (touches his chin) like I said, Lynn didn't say anything about…she didn't tell me anything about what she might have been planning. I have to believe she is alive, but with all the reports saying otherwise (he trails off)

Veronica's eyes narrow, but she smoothes her face into a slightly dumb and upset expression before he looks back at them.

Logan: Well thanks Tom, you've been a great help.

Logan stands up to shake his hand.

Tom: Of course Logan, you know you and Lynn are like family to me. If you ever decide to go in the business, let me know.

Tom walks with them out of the office. Once they are about halfway back to the lobby, Veronica begins frantically digging in her bag. Both men stop to look at her. She looks up as if surprised by their attention.

Veronica: Oh, shoot. I think I dropped my phone. I'll just run back and see if I can find it.

She turns to leave without waiting for them to say anything. She hurries into Tom's office shutting the door behind her and grabs his cell phone off his desk. She jots down his cell number and carrier and looks in his contacts to see if he recorded his password to his account, and there it is under Verizon. She slides behind his desk and tries to bring up his calendar, but the computer is password locked. She quickly opens his desk drawer and looks for anything that indicates what bank he banks at and finds a statement from Bank of America in his in box.

Veronica Voiceover: Sometimes people make my job too easy for me.

She slides the bank statement into her bag and pulls out her own phone. When she wanders back down the hallway she adopts a little girl walk and a sunny smile.

Veronica: Found it. Whew. (to Logan) You know I can't be without my phone. What if Madison bought the same dress as me? (eyes wide and vacant) That would be, like, oh my god, so horrible.

Logan: (facetious)I know sugarpuss, how would you ever recover? (to Tom) Well thanks, man. It's good to know you're here. Family is so important in times like these.

Tom: (smiles in acknowledgement) Of course. I know these are rough times for you Logan.

Veronica: (still wide eyed innocence, but sad now) Oh, did you lose your mother too? How sad.

Tom: (uncomfortable) Oh. No. I just meant I could relate. (Veronica stares at him blankly) I can't imagine losing a parent. Just emphasizing.

Veronica: (sugary) That's so sweet.

Logan: (trying to remain stoic) We should go.

Logan takes Veronica's arm and leads her back to the elevator. Once the door closes he turns to her.

Logan: What the hell was all that?

Veronica: He was lying.

Logan: Yeah, ok, he's an agent, lying is the same as breathing.

Veronica: He was lying. He knows something about your Mom. Trust me.

Logan: Ok, but what was with all the (tucks his hands under his chin demurely and adopts a high pitch voice) I'm just a little girl and I need you big strong men to rescue me!

Veronica: It worked didn't it?

Logan: What worked?

Veronica: It tripped him up, men can't stand tears, and then later I made him feel guilty as hell. He knows your mom is alive Logan and he didn't tell us. I'm sure he's the one who took her out of the hospital. Once I find out what he knows and where she is, I'm going to make his life miserable.

Logan looks mad, then hopeful and finally he smiles. He notices the overhead light in the elevator has made her hair into a golden halo again.

Logan: An avenging angel.

Veronica: What?

Logan: Nothing.

Driving back to Neptune Veronica nods off with her face turned towards Logan. He studies her sleep relaxed face and takes note of the thicker makeup than usual. He looks closer and can see she's using it to cover up the blue smudges under her eyes. He starts to feel guilty knowing all the time she's spent looking for his Mom this week on top of her normal work and school responsibilities. He adjusts the heat so she doesn't get cold and turns a mellow CD on low. She sleeps the majority of the way back to Neptune under Logan's watchful eyes.

Logan drives to Veronica's apartment building and finds a parking spot out front. He pulls into the spot slowly and turns off then engine. When the change in momentum doesn't wake her, he takes the opportunity to look at her some more. His face is tender as his eyes trace over her face and down to her hands. He shifts uncomfortably in the seat and smiles ruefully remembering that the reason he's so uncomfortable is because she'd literally kicked him in the balls earlier. He knew he was being an asshat, but couldn't seem to stop himself.

Everything felt so raw to Logan, like all his nerve endings were exposed to the world. He couldn't do anything about his Mom, couldn't stop the media from harassing him, but he could take his aggressions and jealousy out on Veronica, and he had been. He knew it wasn't fair, and knew he was hurting her, but he had to keep her at arms length, and since he was beginning to doubt his willpower, the easiest way to keep her safe was to keep her mad. She'd do the work for him.

For the next 13 minutes Logan watches her sleep and enjoys the peaceful feeling that settles over him at being with her again without the anger and hurt between them. When she finally begins to stir, Logan runs one finger gently over her cheek to wake her up. Her blue eyes slowly open and focus on his face as a gentle smile tilts her lips upwards. He can see the walls come up as her conscious mind remembers all that has happened in the last few weeks and his heart clenches as she frowns at him.

Veronica: Where…(looking around)

Logan: We just got here.

Veronica: Oh, ok. Sorry, I guess I fell asleep.

Logan: No problem. You were tired.

Veronica: (covering a yawn) Yeah. I was up late last night working on my calculus homework and I still need to work on my English paper.

She unbuckles the seatbelt and stretches like a cat, arching her back and thrusting out her chest.

Logan: (slightly strangled, eyes riveted to her body) Who did you choose?

Veronica: Humm?

He pries his eyes upwards to meet hers.

Logan: What character from Hamlet?

Veronica: Oh. Ophelia. How about you?

Logan: Gertrude.

Veronica: Well, I guess I should go in.

Their eyes lock and both look uncertain. Logan reaches out a hand, then hesitates before brushing a errant lock of hair off her cheek and behind her ear. Her expression becomes tender, but Logan turns away and steps out of the Xterra, walking around to open her door for her. She looks at him with curiosity, but his blank look defeats her and she blinks away her hurt as she slides down from the high profile vehicle.

Logan: You should get some sleep tonight. Hamlet can wait.

Veronica: Maybe. I guess I'll see you tomorrow.

Logan: Yeah. Good night Veronica. Thanks, (hesitates) really, thank you for all you've done. I don't know what I would have done without you.

She narrows her eyes at him, confused by the push and pull of this conversation. She shakes her head and walks inside.

Veronica Voiceover: Now it's nice Logan? Must be an odd numbered hour.

Inside, Veronica tells Keith that Rooks resigned. Keith says that if he were in trouble, he would want her on his side. She says that's where she'd be.

Veronica: Well, I think I going to bed early, I'm exhausted.

Keith: I assume you were with Logan tonight?

Veronica: (yawns again) Yeah. I think Lynn's ok. Now I just have to find her. Can you pull some info for me tomorrow?

Keith: Of course. Good night honey.

Veronica: You too Dad.

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(Thursday)

When Veronica opens her locker the next day she finds several printed pages stuffed inside. She pulls them out looking at them with minimal curiosity, assuming it's hate mail but instead sees it's research on Ophelia, organized into several main points with supporting documentation. She flips through the pages and finds a note on the last page. "You should learn to delegate. I emailed you a digital copy—though I assume you want to get into the female role in society and sexual politics and economics, I'll leave that to you. Thanks again." She smiles looks around but doesn't see Logan anywhere nearby.

Walking into English, she is still sluggish and tired despite getting a full 8 hours of sleep. She shakes her head and yawns, trying to wake up as she takes her normal seat in the back. Meg comes in with Mike, who hands her a cup of coffee. She takes it with some skepticism, and looks up at him questioningly, but it's Meg who responds.

Meg: (smiling widely) It's from Logan.

Mike shrugs and sits beside Veronica. She takes a cautious sip and tastes vanilla latte, not too sweet. She smiles, but it turns to amused surprise as Dick enters the classroom with a face full of bruises.

Mike: Dude.

Veronica: (one eyebrow raised) What happened to you?

Dick: (grumps) I don't want to talk about it.

He slumps into the seat in front of Veronica and stays with his head down for the rest of class.

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Arriving at Journalism early she checks her email and sees that her dad got her the financials on Tom Barger and the clerk from the Blue Bee shop in Santa Barbara had e-faxed the receipt. She looks it over quickly then opens Barger's financials and sees that he had made a purchase at a luggage shop in Santa Barbara at the same approximate time that Lynn would have been in the shop buying what looked like a complete wardrobe. Veronica smiles. Her grin grows wider as she sees Logan come in. He comes over to her immediately and she stands up and hugs him. He looks startled and looks around as he cautiously wraps a loose arm around her. When he hears a sniffle, he shifts her slightly away from him to see her face.

Logan: You ok?

Veronica: (smiling) She's alive.

Logan looks hopeful and breaths more rapidly.

Veronica: She's alive Logan.

Her eyes are shining up at him and he smiles back at her, feeling a weight lift off his shoulders. She hugs him again and his momentarily lightened heart falters. Nothing has changed between them. He pushes her away and seeing her hurt expression distracts her with questions about what she found out.

Veronica: Tom matches the description of the guy who took her out of the hospital, and he drives a car that matches the description of the one she left in. He was in Santa Barbara at the same time as her buying a few pieces of luggage while she was buying a whole new wardrobe. You don't buy clothes if you aren't going to need them.

Logan: Ok. Do you know where she actually is?

Veronica: Not yet, but I'm hoping he called her yesterday after we left.

Logan: That's why you…

Veronica: Made him feel guilty as hell? Yeah. I figured if he knew where she was, he'd call her as soon as we left.

Logan: (disappointed) But it took Mac days to get into my mom's cell phone account.

Veronica: It won't take days. I got his number, carrier, and password.

Logan looks impressed as Veronica logs into Verizon's site as Tom. She prints out the numbers and saves a copy to her flash drive. She looks at the calls made yesterday afternoon and googles the numbers, not having access to the Private Eyz database at school. He made fifteen calls in the three hours after they left. One is to a local restaurant, one to a masseuse. The others are unlisted.

Veronica: I'll run the numbers after school. We should know by tonight.

Logan looks at Veronica gratefully and then carefully withdraws from her space. He stands up and doesn't meet her eyes.

Veronica: Logan?

Logan: That's great. Fantastic. Let me know?

Veronica: Of course.

Logan: (rubbing one hand over the back of his neck) You'll send me the bill? Veronica?

Her eyes and attention are focused on the sliver of tan skin revealed on her torso, smooth muscles and a fine line of hair leading….

Logan: Veronica?

Veronica: (her head snaps up to meet his eyes) What?

Logan: The bill for your time. You're almost done, right, so you'll send me the bill soon?

Veronica: (confused and hurt) Yeah sure.

Logan: (distant and looking away)Good.

Veronica: Right. (bitter) So should I send it to your accountant? Or just mail it to your house? I want this to be all official. It's important to be professional.

Veronica waits to see if he has any response. Logan avoids her glare and Veronica pushes away from the computer station and walks away from him.

Veronica Voiceover: Enough.

------------------------------------

Veronica eats lunch alone in her car too confused by Logan's erratic behavior to have to deal with anyone else today.

As she is walking from her Calculus class to her Physics class after lunch Dick falls in step with her.

Veronica: I'm not in the mood for your antics today Vagina.

Dick: I'm hurt Ronnie. You automatically suspect me of being up to something. Maybe I just wanted to walk with a friend.

She looks at him with annoyance and continues walking.

Dick: (Changing tacts) Actually I was hoping I could talk to you about something.

Veronica: No.

Dick: Why are you being so mean today, I'm the one who got beat up.

She narrows her eyes at him.

Dick: (exasperated) Just come with me, it will only take a minute I promise.

She looks up at him mockingly.

Veronica: (deadpan) That's not something to brag about.

Dick: (mock laughs) I just want to show you something. Stop being difficult and just come with me. Won't it be better to just get it over with? (attempting a reasonable tone) Stop fighting, come with me, and it'll be over soon enough.

Veronica: (amused at the double entendre) If that is your best line, no wonder you've been single since Madison dumped your ass.

Dick: (growling) Fine. Enough trying to play nice.

He grabs her arm and tugs her into the art hallway.

Veronica: What are you doing?

He ignores her question and opens a door to a small storage room before shoving her inside, pulling her bag off her shoulder as he does so..

Veronica: (alarmed) Dick!

He slams the door and she hears the lock click as she tries to twist the doorknob.

Veronica: (angry) Dick! What the hell (kicks the door) are you doing!? Let me out now!

Cut to the hallway where Dick stands with his arms akimbo, looking satisfied.

Dick: No can do Ronnie. You gotta stay in there until I get Logan here.

Veronica: Logan asked you to do this?

Dick: No. I thought this up all on my own. I'm so sick of you two. Just put us all out of our misery and get back together already. Fuck. Why do you have to make everything so hard?

Veronica: It's not going to happen Dick.

Dick walks away and sends Logan a text from Veronica's phone to meet her in the closet. Veronica's muffled voice echoes down the hallway.

Veronica: Dick. (pause) Dick come back here. (pause) Dick, you'd better come back here and let me out. You are so dead! Do you hear me! Dick!!!

Dick just walks calmly to his class and ignores the teacher when she glares at him for coming in late.

A half hour later a pissed off and slightly rumpled Veronica storms into her physics class. The students are involved in an experiment so she makes her way to Mr. Woo.

Mr. Woo: (without looking up) You're late Veronica. Very late. I assume you have an excuse?

Veronica: Well, lets see, Dick Casablancas locked me in the art supply room. Is that a good enough excuse?

Mr. Woo: (surprised into looking up at her, his eyes assess her to be physically ok, if extremely angry) You can skip the assignment, just read the chapter. Would you like to report this to Clemmens or will you be handling it on your own?

Veronica: Oh, I'll handle it all right.

Mr. Woo: I almost feel sorry for Mr. Casablancas. (pauses) Almost.

---------------------------------------

After class Dick walks to the room he locked Veronica in, expecting to open the door to find Logan and Veronica making out. He grins, maybe Logan would even have got her shirt off. He'd like to see what kind or bra Ronnie wears. As he turns into the art hallway he sees several people standing around looking confused. He gets closer and sees the door to the closet lying on the floor. A janitor rubs his head in confusion and says it looks like both hinge pins came out at the same time causing the door to fall down. Dick looks confused, then his eyes widen and he turns and races out of the school. He doesn't know who is more worrisome—Veronica, Logan or Weevil. Dick doesn't stick around to find out which one will come for him first.

--------------------------------------

Veronica's anger is still raging as she enters her last period. When Luke sits next to her and hands Veronica her messenger bag she glares at him.

Veronica: (seething) Luke I swear to god, if you had anything to do with this, nice guy or not I will kill you.

Luke: No. I don't even know what he did. He just gave me your bag and ran off. Looked scared as hell.

Veronica: He should. He's a dead man when I catch up to him.

Luke is silent. Class starts and Veronica manages to get her temper under control. When class ends she turns to Luke.

Veronica: (staring at him seriously) Look, you need to tell any of your other bonehead friends that think that if you just shove Logan and I together that we'll magically make up and ride off into the sunset that it's not going to happen. Tell them to get a life of their own and stay out of mine. If I get even an inkling of anyone trying to manipulate me I will move heaven and earth to make sure they regret the day they ever met me. Is that clear?

Luke: Yeah. I'll let everyone know. (walking out of class with her) What are you going to do to Dick? Weevil already beat the shit out of him.

Veronica looks surprised.

Veronica: (one brow arched) I guess Dick does resemble a Do-Do bird. Dumb and about to be extinct.

Luke looks confused.

----------------------------------------

Veronica had made the appointment the week Logan had broken up with her, and with everything happening this week had thought she would have to skip it, but she decided to go. She stopped at her apartment to get Abel's medical file from behind her bulletin board and drove to the prison.

Abel starts off by being sarcastic to her and asks what she wants to know now. She says she doesn't want to know anything from him. She just wants him to know what she knows. She holds up his medical file for him to see and says he's dying. He stops smirking. She says he knew he was dying when he confessed to Lilly's murder. He didn't kill her. He's just somebody's patsy. She leaves. Abel looks stunned as Veronica gets up to leave.

------------------------------------------

At home Veronica cleans the whole apartment until her body is exhausted and her anger has run its course. She sits down to her computer and runs nearly 50 different phone numbers from Tom Barger's phone through the database and sees several calls to an expensive celebrity rehab center outside of Santa Barbara. She sits back and smiles.

Veronica Voiceover: Gotcha.

------------------------------------------

At the Echolls' estate, Logan manages to get his grandmother all riled up about the poor job Sheriff Lamb is doing trying to find Lynn, he makes sure to relate every flippant remark Lamb made to Logan when he first tired to file a missing person's report. Grandma Hatchet looks like she'd like to turn the sheriff into a kebab by the time Logan is done complaining.

Grandma Lester: That man has another think coming treating my grandson with such disregard. Lynnie has been missing for over a week and he hasn't done anything.

Logan: (slyly) Well, that's not true Grandma, he has held several press conferences.

Grandma Lester: Unacceptable. That is the problem with small towns, when there are no checks and balances people with power think they can do whatever they like. Well not this time, and not this family. I'm going to give that man a piece of my mind.

Logan smirks. It's a small kind of revenge, but he knows his Grandmother will drive Lamb crazy. The man deserves all the trouble he gets for how he treated Veronica and his non response to Lynn's disappearance.

Grandma Lester: (looking at a clock, which says 9:43) You should be in bed young man. You have school tomorrow.

Logan smiles in amusement that he might actually have a bedtime and kisses her on the cheek before ascending the stairs dutifully.

-----------------------------------------------

(Friday)

The next day Veronica texts Logan as soon as she gets up to meet her at school before first period. She wants to be bithcy enough to delay telling him, but her tender marshmallow heart won't allow it.

She meets Logan in the lunch quad. He's waiting for her when she arrives, fidgeting with his sweater sleeve. She maintains her hard impassive expression as she approaches under his wary gaze. Once at the table she slaps down an envelope containing a bill for her time and expenses and a page with the name and address of the rehab clinic where Lynn is. Logan looks at the page first.

Logan: What's this? Assurances?

Veronica: Assurances is a high end luxury rehab facility outside of Santa Barbara. Your mother is there. That's their address, visiting hours, and phone number.

Logan: (scared and hopeful) You're sure?

Veronica: Yes. Barger called there several times from your mom's hospital room, there are no other of his knows clients there now, and a check for $60,000 was posted to his account from Assurances today, dated the day she left the hospital. Beyond that, you'll have to drive up there to confirm it for yourself.

Logan: Thanks, Veronica. I really…

Veronica: (interrupts and points at the unopened envelop on the table) That is my bill. Cash or check is fine.

Logan: Veronica…

Veronica: If you need to pay with a card I can do that at the office. Make an appointment.

Logan: Veronica I'm trying to thank you.

Veronica: (coldly) Thanks are not required Logan, this was a job not a favor. I did the work you pay the bill. The job and our business are now concluded.

She turns and walks away, never looking back. Logan watches her go with a look of intense regret and loss.

Logan: Fuck.

-----------------------------------

Logan is antsy throughout the rest of the day. He waits for Veronica with nervous anticipation in Journalism, but she doesn't show up. At lunch he looks at her but she never looks at him and sits with her back facing his table. At the end of lunch he sees her talking to an extremely nervous looking Beaver, and later walking and laughing with Casey between 5th and 6th periods. He stands in their path.

Veronica: (to Casey) You really want to use that stupid poem in the school's literary magazine?

Casey: Why not?

Veronica: Because it's not a real poem, just something I put together to get noticed by the Moon Calf Collection.

Casey: I know, but it's still good enough to print and we need good material.

Veronica: (laughs) Fine. But you owe me.

Casey: (flirty)Ask me for anything. Anything at all.

Veronica: European vacation?

Casey: When do we leave?

Veronica laughs then notices Logan and the happy amusement immediately falls from her face and eyes.

Veronica: Logan.

Logan: Veronica. Casey. Do you mind if I talk to her for a minute?

Veronica: We have nothing left to say.

Casey: Sure. See you later Veronica. We have a trip to plan.

She smiles at Casey then turns a glare up at Logan.

Veronica: What?

Logan: I wanted to talk to you.

Veronica: I got that. So spit it out already.

Logan: Veronica I'm sorry.

Veronica: I'm not any more interested in your apologies than your thanks Logan.

She moves to walk past him but he side steps into her way.

Logan: I wanted to see if you could come with me to Assurances. Tonight.

She stares up at him obviously about to say no, so Logan rushes on.

Logan: They might not let me in, and you're so good at getting around people and obstacles. I need to see her, (emphatic) need to actually see her to know she's alright, and lots of rehab facilities won't let you in or tell you who's there.

Her face softens as he talks, but she still looks stubborn.

Veronica: (sighs) Fine.

Logan: Tha… (cuts himself off) I do appreciate it.

Veronica: Yeah. Whatever. Pick me up home.

Logan: We should leave right after school to get there.

Veronica: Fine. But I have to go home and take Backup out first.

-------------------------------

Walking out to the parking lot after school, Veronica sees Weevil walking towards her. She waits by her car.

Weevil: You look like shit.

He studies her pale face with blue smudges turning to grey under her eyes and messy ponytail.

Veronica: Sweet talker. Was there something you wanted?

Weevil: Just wanted to check on the car.

Veronica: It's great. Should I be expecting more trouble from Do-Do birds?

Weevil: You never know with you, but I think this particular Do-Do bird learned his lesson.

Veronica: (frowning) I wouldn't be too sure about that.

Weevil: (narrowed eyes) Why?

Veronica: Nothing I can't handle.

He waits to see if she plans to say anything more but she just smiles saccharinely.

Weevil: The car.

Veronica: Yeah?

Weevil: The windshield cost less than the Do-Do paid, so I got you a new radiator. Yours was for shit.

Veronica: (real smile) Thanks Weevil.

She drives away as Logan watches her from his Xterra.

----------------------------------

Thirty minutes later they are on the road. A charged silence fills the car and Veronica pulls out her I-pod and pops in her ear buds, effectively nipping any possible conversation in the bud. Logan drives well over the speed limit and uses the toll roads and car pool lanes to full advantage. They manage to squeak through ahead of traffic until they hit Hollywood. A few miles and almost 30 minutes later they merge onto the 101 north. Veronica pulls a candy bar and a bag of chips from her bag and munches on both noisily enjoying the annoyed looks Logan throws at her.

Finally they approach the outskirts of Santa Barbara and Logan exits onto San Yisdro Road and heads north into the foothills. Finally they turn onto Oak Creek Canyon Road and checking the time Logan roars up the small two lane road. He slows the Xterra at a small gate house by a large fence with a sign that says Assurances, Private Wellness Facility. Logan rolls down his window as the security guard steps out of the small structure.

Guard: I'm sorry but visiting hours are over for today.

Logan: It's not 7 yet.

Guard: Sorry, we don't allow visitors in after 6:30.

Veronica: Can't you make an exception? He wants to see his mom, and we couldn't leave any earlier because of school.

Guard: I'm sorry. You'll have to come back tomorrow.
Logan looks angry and frustrated and pulls out his wallet.

Logan: What'll it take man? 50? 100?

Logan holds out all the bills in his wallet easily over $500.

Logan: Take it all.

Guard: I'm sorry. Your money won't get you in. Come back tomorrow, visiting hours begin at 11am.

Logan looks beyond frustrated and stares longingly past the gates. His hand clenches and unclenches. Finally he slips the transmission into reverse and reverses out of the driveway with a screech of tires and brakes. Slamming the car in drive he barrels down the hill.

Veronica: Logan.

When he doesn't respond she reaches over and touches his arm.

Logan: Fuck.

Veronica: Logan, slow down.

He doesn't and as they round a nearly 90 degree turn the tires squeal and lose traction and the SUV slides across the road into the gravel turn out before regaining traction. Logan brakes the car and stops, looking dazed. His eyes shift to Veronica.

Logan: Are you ok?

Veronica: Yeah. No thanks to you.

Logan: I'm…

Veronica: Sorry. I know.

He clenches his jaw together and drives more sedately back to the highway. When he doesn't take the 101 South back towards Neptune Veronica turns to him.

Veronica: Where are you going?

Logan: Into town.

Veronica: Why?

Logan: To find a hotel.

Veronica: We don't need a hotel, we're not staying the night.

Logan: I'm not leaving until I see my Mom. If you need to go I have every faith in your ability to find your own way back.

Logan stares ahead, hoping that she doesn't realize that the Amtrack Coaster goes straight from Santa Barbara through Neptune.

Veronica: You are such an asshole.

Logan: Yeah. I think you've mentioned that before.

She glares at him then turns to look out the side window. Accepting her fate she pulls out her phone.

Veronica:Wallace. (pauses to listen) Uh-huh. No, I haven't seen that one. (pauses to listen but with mounting impatience) Yes, Dave Chapelle is great. Listen, I need a favor. No, just a tiny one. If my Dad calls, tell him I'm with you. (listens) Where am I really? Well. Logan has kind of kidnapped me. (listens) No, no need to call Lamb. (pauses) No don't call Weevil either. I'm going to bill him overtime. (listening) Yeah. I know. Just buy me some time ok? Good. Yeah. I'll call you when I get home.

Logan pulls into the Four Seasons Biltmore, and into the valet drop off area, Veronica climbs down without a word. She doesn't speak until the hotel registration clerk asks if they want a room or suite.

Veronica: Two rooms.

The clerk looks to Logan.

Logan: Yes. Two adjoining rooms.

The clerk looks to Veronica.

Veronica: Fine. But the door will be staying closed.

Logan: Fine.

Clerk: (uncomfortable) Yes. How will you be paying?

Logan holds out his black American Express card with an insolent arrogance. He smirks at Veronica.

Veronica: (under her breath) Asshole.

The clerk's mouth twitches into a smile that Logan notices.

Logan: That's my sugarpuss. (to the clerk) She's a keeper.

The clerk hands Logan two key cards, one of which Veronica snatches from his hand before stomping over to the elevator. The clerk explains about check out, room service, and the spa facilities.

Logan: (cutting him off as he sees the elevator doors open) Thanks man. (to Veronica) Wait.

She smiles meanly and waves as the elevator doors close. Logan's angry face is reflected in the shiny gold elevator doors as he viciously stabs the call button.

Logan: Bitch.

In the elevator, Logan looks at his paperwork to see which room Veronica has. He storms down the corridor and knocks on her door. She doesn't answer.

Logan: Open the door Veronica.

He bangs on the door with his fist.

Logan: Veronica.

He turns around leaning his back on the door and bangs his head against the door.

Logan: Veronica. Ve. Ron. I. Ca. Ronnie.

She opens the door abruptly and Logan nearly falls.

Veronica: (hissing) What?

Logan: We need to go shopping.

She stares at him blankly.

Logan: Clothes for tomorrow. Toothbrush. Tooth paste.

She rolls her eyes and moves to shut the door again, he stops it with his hand firmly holding it open.

Logan: I'll pay.

Veronica: It's your fault I need anything, so yeah. You'll pay.

Logan drives them to a nearby mall and when Veronica tries to go into a Charlotte Russe store, Logan tugs her away and into a Macys.

Logan: I'm buying, I pick the store.

Veronica easily picks out a pair of jeans and a T-shirt, but Logan sees her eyeing a black dress with white polka dots.

Logan: (smirking) You going to pick out some underwear or should I do it for you?

She glares and stomps to another area of the store. Once she's gone he grabs the dress from the rack and also picks a black sweater for her to wear over it. Hiding the dress in the middle of the clothes he's picked out for himself, he walks into the lingerie area. She's finishing paying and accepts the bag from the clerk.

Veronica: I'll add it to the expenses on your next bill.

Logan smiles hugely. She grinds her teeth and glares at him.

Veronica: I'll wait for you by the door.

She stomps off again and Logan lets the smirk fade from his face. Moving back to the men's section he grabs his own clean underwear, and a few other shirts he likes and a pack of socks. He pays for all the items including two small duffle bags for their new purchases and walks to the main doors. He doesn't see Veronica there and looks around. Still not seeing her he presses the 2 key on his phone, which is still programmed to her number on speed dial. She picks up after a few rings.

Veronica: What?

Logan: Where are you?

Veronica: At the car.

Logan: Fine.

Veronica: Good.

Logan: Could you be any more childish?

Veronica: (incredulous)You practically kidnap me and you're accusing me of being childish?

She hangs up before he can respond.

Their next stop is a CVS Pharmacy where each buy their bathroom necessities. Once again Veronica is waiting for him at the door when he checks out. He stares at her balefully.

Logan: I guess you'll bill me for this too?

Veronica: (flippant) Of course.

Logan begins to regret not dropping her off at the train station, but he drives back to the hotel again. On the elevator ride Logan hears her stomach rumble. Walking to their rooms he turns to her as she slides her key card out of her wallet.

Logan: Dinner in five minutes?

She ignores him and goes inside.

When he knocks on her door a few minutes later she doesn't answer.

Logan: This is getting old Veronica. Just open the damn door and let's go eat. I'm starving.

An older couple walk past and look snootily at Logan.

Logan: Just come out Veronica. You're being ridiculous. I know you're hungry.

When he still doesn't hear anything from inside her room he pulls out his phone and presses redial. There is no corresponding ring from inside the room. She'd left without him. Logan ends the call and slumps back into his room.

Once he's inside he orders a kobe steak burger with fries from room service and raids the mini bar while he waits for the food to be delivered.

Two hours later, Logan is done with dinner and well on his way to being drunk. He hears Veronica's voice, obviously talking on her phone in the hallway. He opens the door and watches her approach.

Veronica: It wasn't planned Dad. It just happened. (pause) Dad. Dad. Can you just listen to me…(pause). I would have told you if I had known…(pause) Ok, yes, fine. I would have ASKED you. (pause) No. (pause) No, we're already here. I'll be home tomorrow. (pause) No. Not in the morning. Logan's going to see Lynn in the morning. In the afternoon. (pause) Yes. I promise. (pause) Fine. (pause) Yes, I love you too. (teasing tone) Just a little less than usual right now.

Her eyes carefully avoid Logan's as she walks closer to their room doors. Logan's face moves from impassive, to envious as he listens to the easy loving relationship she shares with her Dad.

Veronica: (listening) Yes. (rolls her eyes) Yes. Fine. Sunday is all yours.

She hangs up and opens her door.

Logan: Veronica.

She looks up at him and wrinkles her nose.

Veronica: You're drunk.

Logan: Be ready at 9.

Veronica: Visiting hours aren't until 11am.

Logan: I want to get breakfast first.

Veronica: Then get breakfast first. I'll meet you in the lobby at 10:30.

Logan: (grumpy)So I'll be eating breakfast alone too?

Veronica: I don't eat with clients.

His mouth opens to argue or just snark back but she's not interested in what he has to say anymore. The door closes firmly in his face and he hears the deadbolt slide into place.

--------------------------------

(Saturday)

Around two in the morning Veronica is woken up by loud music coming from Logan's room. She tries to block it out, holding a pillow over her head, but she finally gives up and pulls on the complimentary robe over her tank top and underwear. She remembers to grab her room key then opens her door and bangs on his. The door opens almost immediately.

Logan: Ronnie! I knew you couldn't stay away.

Veronica: Turn down the music Logan. I'm trying to sleep.

Logan: (smiling drunkenly) That's no fun. (pouts) You used to be fun.

Veronica: Turn. It. Down.

Logan: What if I don't wanna?

Veronica: What if I called hotel security?

Logan: (smiling) You wouldn't do that.

Veronica: Wanna bet?

Logan: 'cause if you did they'd call the paparazzi and then there'd be a story.

Veronica: So? (shrugs) Not my problem.

Logan: (leaning in the door jam with a sappy smile) Tsk tsk Ronnie. This cold hearted act really doesn't suite you.

Veronica: (mouth tightening)It's not an act.

Logan: I don't believe you.

Veronica: (pretending to think) Well, let's see, what could convince you?

She shoves him back into the room, yanks the plug to the TV out of the wall, pockets the remote control, and grabs the last unopened bottles of liquor off the table and stuffs them into her robe pocket.

Logan: Hey.

Veronica: You really want to go to a rehab facility tomorrow hungover?

Logan: (petulant) Maybe I do.

Instead of responding verbally she slaps him full across the face.

Veronica: (sad)Keep acting like this Logan and you won't be visiting a rehab, you'll be a patient.

He looks stunned as her eyes fill with tears and she leaves the room slamming the door behind her. He slowly raises one hand to his still stinging cheek.

Logan: (quietly) Ouch.

---------------------------------

The next morning Logan is waiting in the Lobby with dark sunglasses on when Veronica comes downstairs. She is wearing the black and white polka dot dress and cardigan Logan had bought for her without her knowledge. She had found it in the bag he gave her the night before. She doesn't comment as he falls in step with her for the 8 block walk to a Denny's. A harried hostess greets them.

Hostess: Sorry, busy morning. Table for two?

Veronica: I'll sit at the counter. (indicates Logan with her thumb) He needs a booth. A big one. With lots of space. (sweet smile) He likes to be alone.

The hostess looks nonplussed then presses her lips together to hold in a smile.

Hostess: Right this way sir. (to Veronica) Honey you can take any open seat.

Logan: I'll sit at the counter with the smartass here.

Veronica ignores him, smiles at the hostess, and walks over to a seat between two big guys wearing flannel. Probably truck drivers, Veronica thinks.

Logan rolls his eyes, walks over and asks one of the men to slide to the open seat next to him so he can sit next to his girlfriend.

Veronica: Ex-girlfriend.

Logan smiles, shrugs and his expression clearly says that women are exasperating. The truckers both smile and continue eating. The hostess moves behind the counter and takes their drink orders.

Logan: Coffee. And an apple juice.

Veronica: Just coffee. Thanks.

Logan: Yeah. Thanks.

He's still wearing his sunglasses.

Hostess: (pouring the coffee, to Logan) So cutie pie. What'd you do to make this little girl so mad at you?

Logan: Nothing.

Veronica: (incredulous and angry) Nothing?

Hostess: Doesn't sound like nothing.

Logan: I don't want to talk about it.

Veronica: Because you're hungover or because you're too much of a jackass to admit you're a jackass?

Logan: I'm not hungover, I'm tired. And dehydrated.

Veronica: Then take off the glasses and show your pretty bloodshot brown eyes to our new friends.

He doesn't.

Veronica: (smirking) I rest my case.

Trucker #1: (to Logan) Just apologize and get it over with already.

Trucker #2: (to Logan) You don't want to let a woman like that go. (smiles at Veronica) I like a little sass in a woman. Keeps things interesting.

Veronica smiles and Logan glares at the man. The hostess who has been listening the whole time as she busses the other counter guests, returns.

Hostess: You know what you want?

Veronica: I'd like the French toast slam. But whatever he orders be ready for him to change his mind. So if he orders the pancakes, just go ahead and bring him whatever. He'll complain about it either way.

Logan: (growing annoyance) I'd like the Denver Omelet with a side of the fresh fruit. And a muzzle for my friend here.

Hostess: (grinning) I'll get right on it.

Both the truckers finish eating but remain at the counter listening to Logan and Veronica snipe long after their meals are done. Once the two teenagers finish their meal all four stand up to leave.

Hostess: Bye you two. Try to be a bit nicer to each other. Life is too short to be angry all the time.

Trucker #1: Thanks for the morning entertainment.

Trucker #2: Best breakfast I've had in awhile.

Veronica smiles at both of them. Her expression turns thoughtful.

Veronica: Hey, would either of you be heading south by any chance? (both shake their heads) Oh, that's too bad. I was hoping I could hitch a ride home.

One of the truckers opens his mouth to say that the train runs south from here, but Logan interrupts.

Logan: Sorry Sugarpuss, you're stuck with me.

She rolls her eyes, and starts walking back to the hotel. Logan grins and follows, his eyes on the angry sway of her hips and ass as she marches the 8 blocks back to the hotel. They go upstairs to grab their bags and check out. Veronica is waiting outside his door when he opens it. She throws the remote closely past his head into the room and he ducks dramatically out of the way.

Logan: Jeez Veronica. Dick was right, you are violent.

She shakes her hair out, raises her chin and looks at him archly.

Veronica: Stop pissing me off and I won't have a reason to be violent with you.

-----------------------------

The drive to Assurances is silent, until Logan pulls past the gate nodding at the guard from yesterday. Logan parks but doesn't unsnap his seat belt or get out. Veronica hops down then turns to see what the hold up is. Logan looks scared.

Veronica: (softly) She's here Logan.

Logan: I know.

His statement is affirmative, but he looks unsure. Afraid to hope. Afraid to be let down again.

Veronica: (soft smile) She's here.

The fear clears from his face and he nods and climbs out, locking the doors behind him.

Veronica: Let's do this.

They enter the facility's lobby. It's very nice and soothing, done in warm earth tones with cool blue scattered on pillows and the art on the walls. The only thing in the room that gives a hint that it is a medical facility instead of a high end boutique hotel is the medical charts on the counter and one set of institutional chairs along the wall. They approach the reception area and the 30ish woman behind the counter. She looks up with a welcoming smile.

Receptionist: Hello. Can I help you?

Logan looks uncertainly at Veronica, who takes his hand and gives it a short squeeze.

Logan: I'm here to see my mother. Lynn Echolls.

The receptionist doesn't bat an eye and pulls out a clipboard with what looks like a list of names.

Receptionist: Ok. What are your names?

Logan: Logan Echolls and Veronica Mars.

She runs her finger down the list and then shakes her head looking up at them regretfully.

Receptionist: I'm sorry. You're not on the list.

Veronica: What list?

Receptionist: All visitors have to be registered and approved ahead of time.

Logan: Look I just want to see my mom…

Veronica squeezes his hand again and he breaks off looking at her with his frustration clear.

Veronica: We didn't know Lynn was here until yesterday, and didn't know we needed an appointment. Can you check with Lynn or her doctor to see if they'll make an exception in this case.

Receptionist: I'm sorry, but…

Logan: (desperate) Please.

Veronica: Logan is the one who found his mother when she overdosed. He needs to know that she's ok. Put yourself in his shoes.

Receptionist: (softening) I'm sorry, but if you're not on the list there is nothing I can do.

Logan: Have you seen her? Is she ok? (the woman remains silent) Can you at least tell me that she is here? That she's still fucking alive? Anything!?

His loud voice draws the attention of another woman who works at the facility.

Office Manager: Is there a problem?

Veronica: We're here to visit his mother. Lynn Echolls.

Receptionist: I told them…

Logan: (interrupts) I want to see my Mother.

Office Manager: I'm sorry, if you're not on the list of visitors there is nothing we can do and we have a strict privacy policy. We can't reveal any of our guests' identities. If one of our guests would like to see you they can add you to the visitor list. Visitors must be registered and approved a week in advance.

Her tone is condescending and borderline rude.

Veronica: Let's go Logan.

Logan: (startled) What? I'm not going anywhere.

Veronica: I think we need some legal advice. Maybe you can call Harvey Levin.

Logan: Harvey?

Veronica: He is a lawyer. He can tell us what to do.

Logan: Do?

Veronica: Well Lynn disappeared out of the hospital without any of her family knowing anything. Then she was brought here, maybe it was against her will. (shrugs) She could have been drugged.

Logan isn't sure what to say to play along with Veronica so he pulls out his phone and begins dialing.

Office Manager: (insulted) I assure you that none of our guests are forced to be here. If they arrive high on drugs they are turned away. How dare you…

Receptionist: (interrupts, to Veronica) Harvey Levin, as in the managing editor of TMZ?

Logan: (into the phone) Can I talk to Harvey? This is Logan Echolls.

Veronica: That's the one. (smiles) Old family friend. Good lawyer.

Office Manager: Now just wait a minute.

Veronica: This place will be surrounded in photographers within an hour. I mean all the tabloids are saying Lynn Echolls jumped off the Coronado Bridge. Even her family thinks she might be dead. If she were found to be alive and well in rehab, I think photos of her would be worth a lot of money.

Receptionist: Please.

Veronica: (shakes her head) You're just doing your job. You have rules you have to follow. I understand. But Logan? He needs to know his mother is ok. Surely you can understand that.

Office Manager: (strident) Young man. Young man!

Logan turns with the phone to his ear.

Logan: Hey Harve. Oops. Can you hold on a second?

He looks at the woman expectantly.

Office Manager: If you hang up I will call my supervisor and see what we can do.

Logan smiles and flips the phone closed.

An hour later they are still waiting. And they still have not received confirmation that Lynn is there. Several visitors have come and gone as well as a woman who had an appointment to look at the facility and decide if she wanted to send her two children there. Logan grows more and more agitated. They talk quietly.

Logan: This is bullshit.

Veronica: Just wait.

Logan: I'm sick of waiting.

Veronica: What other options do we have?

Logan: I tear through this place until I find her.

Veronica: Good plan. Give me your Amex card now so I can post bail for you later.

He looks at her blankly.

Veronica: This is a private facility. Private property. They can kick us out at any time.

Logan: It would be worth it to see her.

Veronica: (quietly) I know.

She stands up.

Logan: Where are you going?

Veronica: (whispering) Just sit here and behave. (louder) I need to use the bathroom sweetie.

Logan: Ok Sugarpuss, be sure not to fall in.

Veronica fake laughs and treads on his foot with her butch black boots as she passes. Logan watches as she pauses at the reception desk to ask for directions to the bathroom. He admires her trim figure and the way the skirt flows as she walks until she disappears from sight.

Ten minutes later Logan is still sitting alone. Veronica appears and moves towards him swiftly. She smiles.

Veronica: I have a plan.

Logan: Good.

Veronica: Don't thank me yet.

Logan looks at her suspiciously. She doesn't disappoint.

Veronica: (loud enough to be heard by the receptionist, the office manager, and the prospective client) God Logan, I was gone for five minutes and you couldn't help it, could you. You have a problem.

Logan: (confused) What?

Veronica: (sad, pouty, and slightly tearful) I really thought you had a handle on this. But last night, and now today? It's not even noon.

Logan: Actually it is. Its 12:23.

Veronica: (loudly) God! That's not the point.

Logan: What is the point?

Veronica: The point is you're an alcoholic.

Logan gapes up at her as she stands up and places her fists on her hips.

Logan: I'm what?

Veronica: You need help. You drink all the time, you're different when you drink, (sobs) you change.

Logan is still too stunned to respond.

Veronica: (voice shaking) You scare me sometimes. When you're drunk. You're so different, I don't know you at all, what you're capable of.

Even though Logan knows it's an act he responds to her tears and voice, standing up to hug her.

They have the full attention of the office staff, a maid and another arriving visitor. Veronica lets Logan's arms close around her then pushes him away.

Veronica: You smell like alcohol. I know you're drinking. Where is your flask? (growing hysteria) I know it's here.

She pats his pockets then grabs his jacket from the chair. She pulls out the flask that is almost always there.

Logan: Hey.

Veronica: (angry and disappointed) I knew it. You have a problem Logan.

Logan: (adamant) No I don't.

Veronica: Your mother is an alcoholic and so are you. It's not your fault. But you need help.

Logan: What?

Veronica: (hopeful pleading) We're here. It looks like a great program. Please. Please consider it.

Logan: Consider what? Rehab?

Veronica: (pleading and tearful) Yes.

Logan: No way.

Veronica: Logan, I can't live like this anymore. Never knowing when you'll be you or when you'll be…(sob) drunk.

Logan: Veronica.

Veronica: (taking his hands)Please, please you're here. You can beat this. You can have a long full life. With me. But I can't stay with you if you don't change. (quietly mournful) I won't.

Logan: (growing angry) You planned this.

Veronica: (gasping, shocked) Don't blame this on me, you're the one drinking in the morning.

Logan: Is my mother even here? Or was it all a ruse to get me here.

Veronica: (throwing her hands up) Fine, I admit it. (burying her face in her hands) I just want you to get better. I couldn't stand it if you got hurt, or….(lip quivering) died. You drink and drive Logan. (quietly) I couldn't stand that.

Logan: I'm fine.

Veronica: You're not fine. You need help.

Logan: No.

Veronica: Please, for me?

Logan: I don't need rehab. I'll stop drinking if you want. I can do this on my own.

Veronica: (shaking her head) No. Please. Just do this for me Logan. (holding his arms, staring up at him, blue eyes swimming in tears) Please. For me. (desperate) Please.

Logan stares at her for a long moment, he doesn't allow his eyes to drift to their growing audience who watch as the intense conversation goes silent, the two young lovers pleading with each other silently, eyes locked. His face slowly softens from stubborn resistance to indecisiveness. Finally he nods and lowers his head to kiss her lips softly.

Logan: Don't cry.

He wipes the tears from her cheeks, cupping her small face in his large hands. The receptionist gives up on not crying and reaches for a tissue.

Logan: I'll do it.

Veronica: (hopeful) Really? You will?

Logan: Yes. For you.

Veronica gives him a beaming smile and turns towards the receptionist and office manager, taking his hand in hers. As they walk, he lifts her hand to his lips and kisses it gently. The receptionist almost swoons.

Veronica: (to the women) Well I guess we have a change in plans.

Logan: I'd like to admit myself. For… what is it here? 30 days?

Receptionist: (shaky) 30 or 60 day programs.

(simultaneously)

Logan: 30.

Veronica: 60.

Veronica looks up at him and reads the sincerity in his eyes.

Veronica: 30. Then we'll see how you're doing.

The both turn to look expectantly at the facility staff.

Office Manager: I'm sorry but we can't admit him.

Veronica: Why not?

Office Manager: We don't have space.

Veronica: That's not true, I heard you say earlier that you had three beds available in the men's rooms.

Office Manager: He's underage, we would need parental permission.

Veronica: His father can be here within the hour.

Office Manager: We don't take minors.

Veronica: Lindsey Lohan was here last month.

Office Manager: He's been drinking.

Veronica: Prove it.

Office Manager: You said…

Veronica: I'm not a doctor. I think it might have just been his mouthwash I was smelling. So much alcohol in those things, you know. (to Logan) Breathe on the nice lady Logan. Let her smell your breath.

Office Manager: He can't….

Veronica: …be admitted because you have a policy of not allowing more than one member of an immediate family to be enrolled at the same time? Because programs are more successful if you do it for yourself instead of for a loved one?

Office Manager: (biting back her venom) Yes.

As Veronica was talking Logan's expression became more and more enamored of the little blonde spitfire. More admiring.

Veronica: Well then I'll take that as confirmation that Lynn Echolls is here. Call Harvey, Logan. Let's let him handle this.

Another man, this one in a doctor's white lab coat approaches.

Doctor: I'm sure there is no need to call the media. (to Logan) Logan Echolls? I'm Doctor Dave Everet.

Logan: Doctor.

Office Manager: These two have been nothing but trouble, trying to force their way in, making a scene in the lobby, threatening to call the media…

Veronica: You said you would see if you could help us. But you thought if you just made us wait, we'd leave. (pondering) What did you say to your friend? That we'd get hungry and bored? (hard) He's looking for his presumed dead mother, and you have the nerve to suggest that we'll just get bored? Were you raised by wolves?

Office Manager: Well I never.

Logan: (deadpan) If you lost some weight, maybe got your hair done, I'm sure you could find some old half blind guy to help you out.

Doctor: That's enough. Mrs. Blake. Please return to your office. You should have contacted me when they arrived. I'll discuss this with you later. (turning to Logan) Mr. Echolls and Ms….

Logan: Mars.

Veronica: Logan and Veronica please, Doctor. No need to be formal.

Doctor: Ok. Please come with me to my office. We should talk.

-------------------------------

In the doctor's office Logan and Veronica sit down and wait for the doctor to begin. He studies them both from behind his desk. Logan's leg bounces up and down and his jaw tightens. After only 30 seconds Logan breaks.

Logan: Are you gonna tell us my mother is here and let me see her or should I call the media?

Doctor: It's against our policy to reveal the identity of our guests. It's also against our policy to allow our guests to have visitors in the first two weeks of their treatment.

Logan: Well it's against my policy to not know where the hell my mother is or whether or not she's alive.

Logan stands up and leans over the desk with his fists clenched. The doctor merely raises an eyebrow. Veronica tugs on Logan's pant's beltloops to get him to sit back down.

Veronica: Logan. Sit.

He does, sitting on the very edge of the seat ready to jump up again at any moment.

Veronica: The doctor has something to say and we should hear it before we make our next move.

Doctor: Thank you. In this specific case I'm willing to break a rule. I don't know why your mother didn't tell you that she was coming here. I'm very sorry for what you must have gone through.

Logan's anger fades immediately hearing the words, and his expression is that most often seen on the faces of small children, naked hope and fear. Without thought he reaches for Veronica's hand and holds it tightly.

Veronica: (quietly) To be clear Doctor, you are saying that Lynn Echolls is here.

Doctor: Yes.

A blindingly happy smile bursts onto Logan's face. Veronica smiles in response as her eyes fill with tears.

Logan: She's alive.

Doctor: Yes.

Logan: I want to see her.

Doctor: I'm sorry.

Logan: (Standing up again)I'm not leaving here until I see her.

Veronica: (pulling on their joined hands to get him to sit again) Logan.

Doctor: Your mother is in treatment Logan, and it is not our policy to allow visitors in the first two weeks.

Veronica: But you'll make an exception.

Doctor: I'm willing to consider it. Depending on a few things.

Logan: (sitting, anxious) What things?

Doctor: Your mother checked in here, I believe, mostly as a public relations move, rather than any serious effort to achieve sobriety. She doesn't believe she has a problem.

Veronica: What are the conditions doctor?

Doctor: I think facing the person she has hurt most could break Lynn out of her fantasy that her life is fine. I'd like for Logan to come to a therapy session with myself and Lynn to confront these issues.

Logan's lip curls in disgust at the word therapy.

Veronica: The conditions.

Doctor: Logan needs to be sober when he comes to the session.

Logan: I'm not drunk. I haven't been drinking.

Doctor: So that was a show you put on in the lobby?

Veronica: We needed to know if she was here, and short of storming the castle….

Doctor: Yes. Very clever.

Logan: So let's go then.

Veronica: I think there are more conditions Logan.

Doctor: Yes.

Logan: Whatever, just tell me and let's go.

Doctor: You need to remain calm.

Logan: I'm calm.

Doctor: During the therapy session.

Logan: Fine.

Doctor: I'll also need you to participate and be honest. You need to tell her that her actions have hurt you, make her face the effects of her substance abuse.

Logan: She just tried to kill herself and you want me to make her feel bad?

Doctor: Yes. She needs to face it, face you, and see your hurt. You protecting her won't help her Logan.

The doctor waits silently for Logan to process this and come to a decision. Logan turns to look at Veronica. She looks back compassionately.

Veronica: You'll get to see her. And you can help her get better. It's a win-win situation.

Logan: Ok. I'll do it.

Doctor: Good, come back tomorrow. 11am.

The doctor stands to escort them out, but Logan protests.

Logan: Tomorrow? No. I want to see her today.

Doctor: Not today

Logan: Yes today. Now.

Veronica: Logan.

Her voice is calming and she squeezes his hand. His chest is heaving with his agitation.

Doctor: I'm sorry.

Veronica: Don't be sorry. Let him see her. Just see her. From a distance even. She doesn't even need to know we're here. (solemn) Please.

Doctor: (nodding once) Ok.

The doctor leads them up a main staircase to a bright airy lunchroom, then out onto a balcony overlooking a shady garden area. Several people sit on benches and at tables talking and doing art. Logan's eyes are trained on a lone figure sitting in a sun chaise reading a book. It's Lynn Echolls. Logan stares intently, his vulnerability obvious. His mouth falls open slightly and his eyes fill with tears. The doctor steps back to give them some privacy.

Logan releases Veronica's hand only to pull her into a hug. He kisses her temple and holds her tightly with both arms, his eyes never leaving his mother. He kisses Veronica's temple a second time.

Logan: (whispering) Thank you.

Veronica shakes her head back and forth slightly, her face pressed into Logan's chest.

After a few minutes the Doctor ushers a reluctant Logan and Veronica from the balcony and back to the lobby where he reminds them to arrive a few minutes early tomorrow and with a look at Logan, to arrive sober. For once Logan doesn't respond defensively with humor or sarcasm, merely nodding his assent.

Stepping out into the bright sunlight of the front walkway, Logan lets out a whoop of joy and twirls Veronica off her feet and around in a circle. She smiles, immediately responding to his joy, and when he sets her back on her feet and kisses her deeply her heart clenches then she relaxes and decides to take the moment for what it is. Logan pulls away with a joyous laugh and wraps an arm around Veronica as they walk over to the Xterra. He scoops up Veronica and sets her in her seat before practically skipping around to climb into the driver's seat. He starts the engine, then turns to Veronica who is watching him with a guarded happiness.

Logan: (staring into her eyes) Thank you.

Veronica: (smiling) I'm glad she's alive Logan. Glad that we found her.

He grins and swoops in for another kiss, this one quick and hard.

-------------------------------

About halfway down the mountain Logan's mood changes. Veronica watches him carefully and worries. Arriving at the same hotel as before Logan pulls into the valet area, and climbs out as a valet opens the door for Veronica. Logan is silent and Veronica directs the valet to get their bags from the back seat. She takes Logan's hand and leads him into the hotel. The bellman follows with their two small bags. The same clerk as before greets at the check in desk then looks worriedly at Logan.

Clerk: Checking back in?

Logan is silently staring at his feet.

Veronica: (tense smile) Yes.

Clerk: Same rooms as before?

Veronica: No, a single room for tonight. Two beds.

Clerk: Of course.

He clicks on the computer, looking up at Logan.

Clerk: Is he alright?

Veronica: Fine.

Clerk: Oh course. How will you be paying?

Veronica: Oh, um. Can you charge it to the same card?

Clerk: I'm sorry, no. The charge is closed.

Veronica: Oh, ok.

She digs in her purse for a credit card that can handle the $800 dollar charge but Logan hands her his wallet. She looks up at him and swallows. He looks ready to break at the slightest provocation. She slides his card to the clerk.

Veronica: Please hurry.

He nods and quickly prints out the paperwork and slides a room key card onto the counter. Veronica takes the card, signs the paper and grabs both their bags in one hand, and Logan's hand in the other. At the elevator she presses the call button with her hip and is glad with the doors open almost immediately to admit them to an empty car.

Inside their room, Logan walks over to sit on the end of the nearest bed without a word. Veronica watches him anxiously then throws the deadbolt on the door, and enters the bathroom. Under the cover of running water she calls her dad, to avoid a fight she bypasses the direct line to leave a message. She explains that they have to stay another night, and she knows she's probably grounded, but it can't be helped. She promises to be home tomorrow and will call in the morning. Hanging up she sets the phone to silent and splashes water on her face studying her worried expression.

Exiting the bathroom she sees Logan in the same spot but he has shifted to be leaning forward with his head hanging down, his hands clasped and his elbows braced on his thighs. She toes off her boots and cardigan and moves towards him.

Veronica: (quietly) Logan?

She pauses, but there is no response.

Veronica: Do you want to be alone? (no response) Logan, do you want me to leave?

He looks up and his face is a wasteland of disappointment, hurt, anger, and heartbreaking sadness. Veronica's chest heaves and she makes every effort to not cry, to not show any pity. Logan would hate that. But as his own eyes fill with tears she knows he won't be able to see hers and she lets them fall. Logan unclasps his hands and pulls her closer, standing inside the V of his legs. He rests his face in her chest as sobs begin to rack his body. She rubs her hands through his hair and over his shoulders and lets him cry.

------------------------

Scene opens on a plush hotel room, lit with late afternoon sun. Logan and Veronica are lying on a large bed covered in a stark white bedspread. Logan is curled on his side, spooning around Veronica's smaller figure. His nose is pressed into the back of her neck and one arm is wrapped snugly around her waist, holding her close.

He snuggles her closer and runs his nose lightly up her neck as he begins to wake up. Feeling her compact warmth against him Logan smiles then as his eyes open it fades into a frown. He props up on one arm looking around warily, and falls back on the bed as the previous two days rush back to him.

Missing his warmth at her back Veronica squirms sliding backwards to be closer to him. Logan's face gentles and he looks at Veronica with a look of complete and pure adoration. Her skirt had ridden up as they slept and Logan smoothes it down then puts a slight pressure on her hip to get her to roll onto her back.

Logan settles himself closer to her pulling the decorative throw blanket at the end of the bed over her still sleeping form. He studies her face, noticing the faint tear tracks from earlier. He tenderly traces the lines down her cheeks to her lips. When she stirs Logan freezes then relaxes as she settles back into dreamland.

Sometime later, the light has faded more and Veronica shifts and rolls onto her side. The movement wakes Logan up, and his eyes open to look at Veronica. Her eyes open then blink rapidly as she finds herself nearly nose to nose with Logan. Her breathing speeds up and her eyes race over his face to see how he's feeling. Logan smiles gently at her and moves slowly closer to her watching her eyes for any sign of discomfort or rejection as his lips find hers.

Her eyes flutter shut as he rubs his mouth softly against hers. Slowly he opens his mouth, his tongue darting out to trace the curve of her lower lip. She shifts closer to him, pressing their lips more tightly together as their mouths open and their tongues meet. The kiss is soft and gentle as they relearn the taste and textures of the other's mouth. Veronica pulls back and takes a deep breath in. Logan, still silent, watches her with a tender look. Slowly she raises her hand to rest on his shoulder. Finally she gives him a small smile and rolls onto her back pulling him over her as their mouths meet for another kiss.

It begins languidly, but changes quickly as the passion and desperation of having missed so much time together surges forward. Logan slants his head and deepens the kiss, sweeping her up on a tide of emotion and physical desire. Her hands pull him closer exploring the slope of his shoulders and the smooth muscles there. Logan nibbles on her lips before moving to her neck. Within moments she is twisting beneath him struggling to pull him closer, opening her legs so he can lie more comfortably in the cradle of her hips.

Logan: God I missed you.

The words are mumbled into her neck as he nibbles and licks a path back to her mouth. Tired of his slow progress Veronica grabs his face and pulls his mouth back to hers. Their tongues swirl together and Logan tires to ease back, not wanting to push anything, trying not to assume that they will pick back up where they left off, but Veronica is having none of it. As soon as he breaks the kiss her hands are pulling his shirt over his head and flinging it across the room. He smiles at her enthusiasm but still makes an effort to slow down, dropping chaste kisses along her jawline as her hands and nails run over his back.

Veronica captures his mouth again raking her teeth over his bottom lip as her fingernails score his back. She wraps her legs around him and rubs her pelvis against his erection. The combination of her actions and his own desire overwhelm Logan and he throws himself into the kiss sliding his hand up her thigh pushing the dress out of his way. Her soft noises of pleasure urge him on as he slides his hand over her panties, already moist with her arousal. She cries out at his touch, thrusting her hips up seeking more.

Logan breaks the kiss as he looks down at her, loving the passion swept flush covering her cheeks and chest in a rosy pink glow. He shifts his body so his hand has more room to work as he slips his fingers under her panties, black lace he is interested to note, and strokes his fingers slowly over her sex. Veronica moans softly as he pushes two fingers into her, stretching her inner muscles. He strokes in and out with slow deliberateness, his thumb teasing over her clit. Rushes of intense pleasure flood Veronica, and she is only able to hold onto his shoulders tightly, calling out his name in a raspy groan that heats his blood to the boiling point. He hooks his fingers pressing firmly to her spot as he crushes a hard kiss down on her, taking her cries into his mouth.

As Veronica comes down from her climax, Logan gently rubs his thumb over her hip bone, curious to how sharp the bone seems, more so than before. He settles onto his side next to her he scatters quick kisses over her face, neck and collarbone.

Veronica's eyes focus on him and his eyebrows form a slight V, as his eyes search hers. There is an intensity and uncertainty there as she appears to have some internal debate. The expression in her blue orbs that unsettles him, and he waits for her to tell him that what they just did was a mistake, that she didn't want to be with him anymore, but instead she sits up and swivels to look down at him. She appears to have concluded the private debate.

Logan: Veronica?

He reaches up to caress her cheek, and she smiles a tender bittersweet smile.

Logan: What's wrong?

Veronica: Nothing.

Logan: What are you thinking right now?

Her smile grows but doesn't reach her eyes as she straddles his hips in one smooth movement. His hands settle on her hips and he looks up at her expectantly. Her smile fades and she looks sad, but then she smiles again, sweetly at first then with a growing wickedness, this time it goes all the way to her eyes. He smiles back automatically.

She leans over him and kisses him sweetly.

Veronica: I missed you too.

She sweeps her tongue into his mouth quickly before moving her mouth to his ear.

Veronica: You have no idea how much.

Logan: I might.

Her lips on his ear shoot spears of arousal to his groin and he knows she can feel his growing erection pressed against her soft stomach. She sits up and he can see clear determination in her eyes as her hands reach back and slide the back zipper of the dress down. Her hands gather up the skirt revealing her slim legs to his avid gaze as she pulls the dress off over her head. Logan's eyes reverently inspect the black lace bra and panties that she's wearing.

Veronica: (saucy) You like?

Logan: Of course.

Veronica: Good. You're the one who will end up paying for them.

Logan: I have good taste.

She arches an eyebrow and reaches back to unclasp the bra but Logan stills her hands.

Logan: What are we doing?

Veronica: Wow. The rumors about your success with the ladies must be even more overblown than the rumors about me.

Logan: (serious)Veronica.

Veronica: (deliberately light) We're making up for lost time.

She stops his questions with a kiss, her small hands busily caressing his chest, tracing from his shoulders in on his collarbones, down his sternum, and under the slight curve of his pecks. Her mouth then moves to caress over one small, flat brown nipple before moving to the other. Logan feels off center, as if something isn't quite right, but Veronica's slow seduction erodes his concern and he focuses instead on touching the beautiful girl in his lap. His hands run up her thighs and slide over the curve of her bottom before caressing up her back. He is momentarily distracted by the feel of her ribs, more pronounced than he remembered. He tries to push her back to look at her more fully, but she resists and slides her mouth up to his neck as her hands tug on the top button of his pants.

Logan: Veronica.

She hears the resistance in his voice and bites sharply on his neck before laving her tongue over the stinging wound. She hears Logan's hiss, of pleasure or pain she's not sure, but his hands are no longer trying to separate them, instead he slides one hand into her already messy hair and pulls her mouth to his for a deep kiss.

She makes quick work of the button and slides the zipper down with ease. Her hand darts into his boxers, taking a firm hold of his cock. Breaking the kiss she sits up and slowly pumps her hand up and down his impressive erection. Logan's hands fist in the comforter as she continues to work him slowly with her small hands. His eyes are squeezed tightly together and his head thrown back or he would have seen the look of uncertainty cross over her face.

Veronica Voiceover: Ok, so I didn't think this far ahead.

She looks uncertain for a moment then her face clears. Releasing her hold on him she slides up on her knees and hurriedly removes her panties. Logan's eyes open and he notes the change in attire and flips Veronica onto her back before she can make her next move. She struggles under his weight for a moment, trying to turn them back over.

Logan: What's going on?

She wiggles trying to reverse their positions and Logan groans and closes his eyes as her wet center rubs over his straining erection. She stills for a moment and changes tactics. She wraps her legs around his back and rubs against him more deliberately.

Logan: (hissing) Fuck Veronica. Stop.

He clutches her hips in his hands, stilling her movements with sheer force. He looks at her and sees the vulnerability on her face. She stares back up at him doleful expression.

Veronica: I don't want to stop.

Logan: (completely still and watchful) What?

Veronica: (quiet certainty) I don't want to stop.

Logan still looks doubtful.

Veronica: I want you.

The stare at each other for a long moment, then Logan speaks.

Logan: Are you sure?

Veronica: Yes.

Logan: Veronica…

Veronica: I'm sure.

Logan groans and lays his body over hers capturing her mouth in a possessive kiss that curls Veronica's toes. He holds her tightly, pouring all his pent up emotions and passion into the kiss leaving Veronica breathless. He moves his mouth to one lace covered breast breathing hot moist air over the already taunt nipple before sucking lightly on the nub through the lace. He caresses her other breast firmly with his hand, rolling the nipple back and forth under the stiff lace making her writhe under him. He tugs the bra strap down and slides his mouth over, his hand taking up the slack on the other side. Again he lightly rolls her nipple against the lace the added sensation making her gasp and cry out, music to his ears. With his mouth firmly occupying her attention she doesn't notice as he slides his hand around to deftly unhook the bra removing it completely.

Logan lifts himself up on his forearms looking down on her beautiful face and bare chest.

Logan: You're so beautiful.

Veronica isn't interested in words at this point and she unhooks her legs from around his back, using her heels to push his pants and boxers down his legs. Logan helps and soon they are both naked. Logan reaches for his wallet in his pants pocket for the condom he always keeps there, but Veronica stops him.

Veronica: I'm on the pill.

Logan: I've had other partners before you.

Veronica: But you were tested right. Recently?

Logan: Yeah, but…

Veronica: I trust you.

Her solemn tone and expression flash through Logan and he smiles.

Logan: If you're sure…

Veronica: I am.

She pulls him back over her and stares up at him with trust and desire. He can see the slight fear and uncertainly lingering behind her eyes and he brushes a hand over her cheek in a tender caress.

Logan: I've never had sex without a condom before.

Veronica: (smiling) Then I guess this will be a first for both of us.

He kisses her and then his hands are everywhere, touching every part of her from her fingertips down to her toes. Her blood races through her veins, and she is only aware of Logan and what he is doing to her. When her head is spinning and she feels like her skin is the only thing holding her together, she begs him to end the torture.

Veronica: Logan, please. I want you.

He shifts his weight moving his hand to her center and pushing two fingers easily into her. She moans as he drives his fingers into her, caressing her teasingly, without enough pressure or speed to push her over the edge.

Veronica: (gasping) Please.

Logan: (husky) You're so tight. I don't want to hurt you.

Veronica: You won't.

She gasps clutching at his shoulders when he suddenly pushes three fingers into her stretching her more than ever before. After a moment the burning sensation fades and she begins chanting his name in a steady cadence. He moves into position his cock nudging at her opening and he stills.

Logan: Look at me.

Her eyes open and her pupils are dilated and unfocused. He holds her gaze as he shifts his hips slightly forward pressing into her. Her breath hisses in and she clenches around him.

Logan: It's ok. Just try to relax.

She looks up at him trustingly and wraps her legs more comfortably around his waist. He sinks into her a few more inches, feeling her tightness ease to allow the intrusion. The tight uncomfortable sensation fades and she tightens her legs around him pulling him in more.

Logan: Ok?

Veronica: (hissing) Yes.

He slowly begins to slide out then pushes back in slowly, easing into her allowing her body to get used to him. When he can no longer see the pain in her eyes he speeds up and pushes more fully into her.

She begins chanting his name again urging him on. For Logan, he's never felt anything like this. He wasn't lying when he said he'd never had sex without a condom before and the increased sensation was amazing to him. Partly he knew it was due to the lack of condom, but mostly he was sure it was due to Veronica. She was so small and tight, that every movement felt incredible. The trust she was showing him, the expression of joy and passion on her face as he thrust into her was making him crazy. He wanted to stay inside her forever, and knew he'd never be able to let her go again.

He quickened his pace and Veronica moaned and thrashed underneath him. He wanted to kiss her, caress her breasts, but had to concentrate, intent on pushing her over the edge before he came. Later he promised himself. Later he would enjoy watching her respond to his attentions to the rest of her body, right now he had to focus on not coming before she did. He wanted her first time to be perfect.

He changed the angle of his hips, dragging his cock across her clit on each thrust and her cries became more insistent and her words more emotional. Knowing he wouldn't last much longer Logan reaches down and rubs his thumb roughly over her clit, pressing down as he surges into her with two jerky thrusts. He feels her body clench down on him as he explodes into her heat, sinking down to cover her heaving body with his own exhausted frame.

They fall asleep together under the blanket Logan had used to cover her earlier.

The room is dark when he wakes up later, feeling her leave the loose hold of his arms. He props himself up on his elbows as she wraps the blanket around herself and smiles shyly at him.

Veronica: Bathroom.

He nods, watching her walk into the bathroom. A few minutes later he hears the shower turn on and wants more than anything to join her but thinks she might see it as a violation of privacy rather than as sexy and intimate. He sits up and pulls on his camouflage cargo pants before looking through the room service menu. He dials and orders a few dishes he thinks Veronica will like along with a steak and potato for himself. Seeing their bags he asks to be transferred to the concierge. He unzips her bag and pulls out the jeans, t-shirt, and underwear looking at the sizes. He asks the concierge to arrange for them to each have a new pair or clothes delivered, giving their sizes and preferred clothing style.

He is sitting back against the bed with the comforter pulled down when she comes out of the shower dressed in the hotel's robe. She still looks uncertain about how to act so he stands up casually, kisses her lightly and tells her dinner should be there in a few minutes as he moves into the bathroom.

-----------------------------------

By the time they are finished with dinner, Veronica eating both the entrees he ordered for her, seared ahi and ravioli, she is more relaxed. When another knock sounds on the door she looks at him in question.

Logan: Another order.

Veronica: (hopeful)Dessert?

Logan: (laughing) No, but look at the menu, we can order whatever you want.

He comes back into the main part of the room with a bag from Bloomingdales.

Veronica: You didn't.

Logan: What?

Veronica: More clothes?

Logan: We need them.

Veronica: Ever heard of laundry service?

Logan: Trust me, buying new clothes probably costs about the same.

Veronica: (skeptical) I'll take your word for it.

He sits back down on the bed and pulls her closer to him.

Logan: Everything ok?

Veronica: Shouldn't I be asking you that?

The stare each other down, neither giving in.

Logan: I'm fine.

Veronica: So am I.

Logan: (smiling cockily) Yes you are.

Veronica: (rolling her eyes) Are you ready for tomorrow?

Logan: I don't know.

Veronica: And earlier?

Logan: I'm fine.

Veronica: Ok.

Logan: And you?

Veronica: (narrowing her eyes)I think we covered this already.

Logan: Fine.

He pulls her down onto the bed laying her down and moving over her.

Logan: How do you feel? Are you ok?

Veronica: Yes. But if you need to perform an inspection to reassure yourself…

Logan: (faux shocked) Are you asking me to play doctor with you Veronica Mars?

She smile impishly as he tugs on the robe's sash and pushes the fabric off her shoulders.

Logan: I always did excel at role play.

----------------------------------

Scene opens on them lying in bed. Veronica is wearing a large t-shirt, the one Logan wore yesterday. Her eyes dart to his then away quickly. He smiles, and captures her chin lifting her face to meet his eyes.

Logan: What?

Veronica: (looking down) Nothing.

Logan: Veronica. You can tell me or ask me anything.

Veronica: (still looking away) Are you, are you ok? Really?

Finally her eyes meet his as she looks at him anxiously.

Logan: I … (he is about to say he's fine, but decides she deserves the truth). I don't know. Yeah. I think I am. Or I will be. She's alive. That's what I wanted.

Veronica doesn't look happy with that answer.

Veronica: But…(she breaks off)

Logan: But what?

Veronica: Nothing.

Logan: Veronica.

Veronica: No, it's none of my business.

Logan: Say it. Whatever it is.

Veronica: Aren't you mad?

Logan doesn't respond.

Veronica: When my mom left me Logan, I was hurt. Hurt, sad, worried. I wanted her to come home. Then I got mad. She left me. Didn't even tell me goodbye. I'm still mad. Sad, but angry too.

Logan: (smiles) Yeah. I'm mad.

Veronica: (frowns) You don't sound mad.

Logan: Maybe because I'm happy right now.

Veronica: Because you got to see her, finally have proof that she's ok?

Logan: Yeah. And because I'm here with you.

Veronica: (looking down) Oh.

There is a lot left unsaid as Veronica cuddles more fully into Logan's side, determined to make as much of the time they have. She rests her head on his bare chest and listens to his heartbeat steadily. She feels the burn of tears behind her eyes and closes them tightly, but the tears escape anyways. When Logan feels the hot dampness, he tries to shift her so he can see her face, but she tenses and resists him.

Logan: Veronica. What's wrong?

She ignores his question and he firmly moves her so she is lying on her back and he can see her face. He stares at her intently waiting for her to tell him, but she doesn't. The tears dry on he cheeks again and Logan frowns, worried.

Logan: Veronica, talk to me…

She interrupts him with a kiss, her hands sliding to frame his face and draw him down to her mouth. She shudders out a breath as their lips meet then the passion that was as much a part of their relationship as sarcasm erupted again sweeping them both away from fears and thoughts about tomorrow, leaving only thoughts of now and the pleasure they found in each other.

---------------------------

(Sunday)

The next morning has a dreamlike quality for Veronica. Waking up in Logan's arms, sleeping in a bed that felt as soft and warm as a cloud. A shower with unending hot water, luxurious towels. New clothes, courtesy of Logan and the power of his black American Express card. They smile, laugh and steal kisses all morning long as they get dressed for the day. Logan drives them to a small beachside café recommended by the hotel staff and they order tons of food and share, eating off each others' plates and sipping coffee.

Logan grabs a courtesy paper and opens it to read what's being said about his family now. Veronica cajoles him out of the possibly bad mood inducing activity by sitting in his lap and whispering in his ear. Laughing and lighthearted in each others company they kiss and tease as the clock ticks down.

At 10:30 Veronica stands up and holds out her hand to Logan. He looks up at her reluctantly then smiles. Logan takes her hand in his and kisses it before opening her palm and placing another kiss on the sensitive skin there. When her eyes heat up again he smiles in triumph and pulls her toward him, reeling her into his lap until she sits and wraps her arms loosely around his shoulders as he kisses her neck. She giggles when he tickles her lightly a few minutes later and jumps to his feet holding her firmly to his body. She wraps her arms tighter around his neck and kisses the sensitive skin under his ear before sliding down his body to walk hand and hand with him back to the Xterra.

Neither notices the photographer that had been following them from a distance all morning.

------------------------------

When they arrive at Assurances, Logan kills the engine and turns to Veronica.

Logan: You'll come in with me?

Veronica: Inside? (scrunching her nose in uncertainty) If you want me to, but the therapy session is just for you and your mom Logan.

Logan: I want you to be there.

She smiles but her eyes are serious and worried. She's afraid for him, for what might come to light in the session today. He reaches over and smoothes the line between her eyebrows with his finger, looking persuasively into her eyes.

Veronica: No. (swallows) You have to do this one alone, I think.

Logan turns forward in his seat again and stares straight ahead.

Veronica: (cautious) Logan. You have to tell her.

He turns to look at her in question.

Veronica: You have to tell her that she hurt you. How you felt finding (she tears up and swallows the sudden lump in her throat) finding her. Taking her to the hospital. Waiting for her to wake up.

Logan: I know.

Veronica: Do you?

Logan: (slightly angry) Yeah.

Veronica: I know you Logan. You don't want to tell her any of that, you don't want to upset her, don't want to blame her.

His eyes meet hers again.

Logan: She's my Mother.

Veronica: And you love her.

Logan: Yeah.

Veronica: So you have to do this. You have to make her see that she hurt you, that things aren't ok. She needs help. And you deserve a parent that puts you first Logan. I know you love her, but she was selfish. Is selfish.

Logan: Don't say that.

Veronica: (growing frustrated) God Logan. She left without a word to anyone after she tried to commit suicide. She didn't tell you, her son! That is the epitome of selfish if you ask me.

Logan fumes but his eyes are tender when he turns to look at Veronica.

Logan: I love her.

Veronica: Then you have to be honest. Lying won't help her Logan. You can't shield her from her actions. She's an adult, a parent. She has to face up to the decisions she's made. Good and bad.

Logan: (grumps)Being a grown up sucks.

Veronica: Yeah.

-------------------------------------

Veronica walks inside with Logan and they are met in the lobby by Doctor Everet.

Doctor: Good morning. (to Logan) are you ready?

Logan: As ready as I'll ever be. Can she (indicates Veronica) come in too?

Doctor: I'm afraid not.

Veronica: (smiles reassuringly at Logan) I'll just drive around for a bit. Take some pictures. It's really beautiful here.

Logan smiles at her, kisses her forehead and hands her the keys.

Doctor: (to Veronica) The session should take a few hours.

She nods and with one more encouraging look at Logan and a smile that does not mask her anxiety she walks back out the main door.

Doctor Everet leads Logan down a few corridors to a small sunroom. The room is bright and has a few couches and arm chairs. One wall is all glass with French doors that open onto a small patio. Beyond that is a shady Japanese garden.

Doctor: Have a seat Logan. I'd like to talk to you before your Mother arrives.

Logan: (not sitting) What about?

Doctor: I need you to try to be as open and honest as you can today. If you're hurt or angry you need to express that to your Mother.

Logan: Yeah, yeah.

Doctor: I'm serious Logan. People have to hit rock bottom before they can really get help.

Logan: (lip curling) She tired to kill herself. That's about as hard of a rock bottom as you can get.

Doctor: She insists that it wasn't a suicide attempt and that she doesn't really have a problem with alcohol or prescription drugs.

Logan: And me telling her that she hurt my feelings is going to change all that?

Doctor: She loves you. Hearing how her actions have affected you could help.

Logan turns away, memories of his mother turning a blind eye on Aaron's violent tendencies filling his mind.

Logan: Fine. I'll be (hand flourish) open and honest. (holds up two fingers in the Scouts salute) Honest to God.

Doctor: I hope so.

Logan: Veronica already told me all this. I know what I have to do.

Doctor: (surprised) She did? She's a very smart young woman. And a good friend to you I think.

Logan: (smiles softly) Yeah.

The doctor notes that even a mention of the girl softened the hard edges on the boy. He nods. It's good that Logan has someone he can care about and that cares about him.

A minute later Lynn Echolls enters the room. She looks healthy and beautiful, dressed in a white flowing sun dress.

Lynn: (pleased) Logan! It's so good to see you. How are you? I've missed you.

She hugs Logan and he hugs her back tightly, taking in the familiar smell of her hair and feel of her cheek pressed against his.

Logan: (slight bite to his words) I might have been here sooner if I knew where you were.

Lynn pulls back a bit taken aback at the tone in his voice directed at her.

Doctor: Lynn. Please have a seat. Logan will be joining us for the session today. He has some things to say that I think you need to hear.

Time lapse to later, Logan, Lynn, and Doctor Everet are still in the sun room. Lynn is tearful and Logan looks angry.

Logan: Stop pretending that you just took one pill too many Mom. You emptied four bottles. Four!

Lynn: I was confused. I drank too much wine.

Doctor: Lynn, be honest.

Logan: (standing up) You tried to kill yourself. Do you hate your life that much? Hate me?

Lynn: No, of course not.

Doctor: Go on Logan.

Logan: (glaring at the doctor before facing his mother again)You tried to leave me. Leave me with just Dad. How could you?

Lynn: Logan you know your Father loves you, he just….

Logan: He just nothing. He doesn't care about me. I'm just a prop to him, the one that tells his adoring fans that he's a family man.

Lynn: Logan.

Logan: No Mom. You know it's true. Just admit it. Dad doesn't care about me and you tried to kill yourself. Admit it.

Lynn: (small voice) I was upset.

Doctor: Why were you upset that day? (no answer) Lynn?

Logan: She was selling the photos of my dad cheating to the tabloids. He found out. They fought. He threatened her, I threatened him. She said she couldn't take it anymore.

Doctor: Take what? Lynn?

Logan: Take me. Our family. Her life. (teary) I don't know.

Lynn: No, Logan. Not you. I love you. You're the best thing in my life.

Logan: You said…

Lynn: You misunderstood me. (emphatic) I love you. This wasn't your fault.

They hug.

Logan: (quietly) Then why did you leave me? You tired to kill yourself, and I waited for you in the hospital to wake up, I prayed to God, I made deals with the devil, I wished on the fucking stars for you to wake up. Then you did.

He pulls away from her and looks at her accusingly.

Logan: You woke up and pretended nothing had happened, then you disappeared. I came to pick you up and you were gone.

Lynn: I'm sorry.

Logan: (yelling) Sorry? You're sorry? You think that makes it ok? I thought you were dead!

Lynn: Why…

Logan: (interrupts) Oh, gee I don't know, because you were in the hospital for a suicide attempt and then you disappear without a trace. There were reports that you jumped of the Coronado Bridge. Do you know how I felt?

Lynn: No. I'm sorry. I really am. I didn't think.

Doctor: (calmly) Logan why don't you tell your mom how you feel.

Logan: (mocking, eyebrow raised) How I feel? Let's see, how do I feel? I feel angry. Is that good doctor?

Doctor: (unprovoked) That's a start.

Logan: (to Lynn) I'm mad at hell that you could be so….

Doctor: What Logan?

Logan: No.

Lynn: (swallowing her tears) Logan tell me.

Doctor: She needs to hear it.

Logan: Veronica said you were selfish. (contemplative) I'd never thought of it like that.

Lynn: (heartbroken) Selfish. Yes I guess I was. Am. I'm sorry Logan.

Logan: I don't want you to be sorry Mom. I want you to get better. I want to be able to trust that you'll be there when I need you.

Lynn: (teary) I will Logan. I promise. I will.

----------------------------------

When Logan exits the facility, Veronica is waiting for him outside, sitting on the back bumper of the Xterra. She stands up and searches his face, looking for signs if it was good, bad, or just plain ugly, then switches her gaze to the Doctor walking slightly behind him. Logan walks straight into her and hugs her.

Veronica: You ok?

Logan: Yeah. I think so.

Doctor: He did well.

Veronica: And Lynn?

Doctor: I think she heard him. She's ready to admit she needs help.

Logan: How long will she be here?

Doctor: I'd like her to stay for the full 60 days.

Logan nods.

Veronica: How does Logan get on the visitor's list?

Doctor: I'll add him. (to Logan) I'd like to get your number so I can call you if I need you to come back.

Logan: Sure.

The doctor hands him a pen and a sheet of paper from the small notebook he was taking notes in during the session.

Logan: Thanks doc.

Doctor: You did good in there today Logan. But the rest is up to her.

------------------------

Cut to Logan and Veronica in the Xterra driving back to Neptune.

Logan: I can't depend on her getting better can I.

Veronica: I hope she does Logan.

Logan: But I can't count on it.

Veronica: No, I don't think so.

Logan nods slowly.

-------------------------

Logan drops her off at home climbing out to hand over her bag of new clothes. He bends down to kiss her goodbye but she turns her head so it lands on her cheek.

Logan: I'll see you tomorrow?

Veronica: (brief smile) Yeah, Dad may ground me for life, but home schooling is probably not on his list of punishments.

Logan frowns.

Logan: Sorry about that. I could talk to him…

Veronica: (interrupts) No. I'll handle it.

Logan: (drawn out) Ok.

He searches her face for what's going on in her mind, but she looks away from him with a carefully masked look.

Veronica: Alright then. Time to face the music.

She walks inside stepping carefully around Logan and doesn't turn back to look at him before disappearing from site inside the gate. Logan watches her go, and a bad feeling settles in the pit of his stomach.

---------

AN

Betcha didn't see all that coming. I could tell you Veronica's reason for pushing to have sex but I won't. You'll have to wait to learn it when Logan does.

I want to thank everyone for the awesome reviews lately. I really do appreciate all the feedback and ideas/questions. This is the 20th chapter, which is amazing. (The first chapter doesn't count since it was just the transcript with a few extra scenes.)

Despite the angst and anger in this chapter, I'm happy to have found the funny again. Dick, Denny's, the Logan is an alcoholic conversation…Good times! And sweet Logan and soft Veronica are back, even if he knows something isn't quite right.

I hope you all enjoyed Veronica getting some of her own back at Logan in this chapter. Her limited patience was stretched pretty far in the last chapter so I had her reverse course from understanding and sympathetic to annoyed and angry. As for her actually hitting him—I'm a pacifist in most cases, but it's human nature to respond when attacked. You have two choices –fight or flight. Veronica uses both but in this case I thought fight was better.

Someone asked how often I update—I average a chapter every 10 days. Sometimes they come easy and I can post faster and sometimes it's not so easy. But 10 days is the norm. Well see how long I can keep that up as RL becomes more busy.

Real word count 19,756