Recap: School resumes with several new additions. LoVe are going strong, but ghosts of the past are never far behind. Newly engaged Keith is running for Sheriff. The anniversary of Lilly's death brings back bittersweet memories. Logan makes strides to earning the Paris trip and receives an offer of help dealing with his family and past from his neighbor. Kate's nightmares drive her to the edge and she finally confronts what the dreams may mean, but the truth may be more than she bargained for. Busy planning a fundraiser but with Rams and her friends at her side, she and Veronica forge ahead. Duncan's affair with Kendall continued past warnings to both to stop, but eventually Duncan decides to start reconnecting with old friends and his high school life. Wallace likes Jackie, and thinks they have moved from dating to exclusive, but the friction between Jackie and V makes things difficult and only gets worse when Jackie is a suspect in who is leaking negative info on Logan to the press. Dick's interest in Mac continues to grow, causing friction with Enbom, and making Mac face down the hard choice of moving on or back or going it alone. After run ins with both Lizzy and Nash, Meg ends her relationship with Richie, but Nash is sending mixed signals. Logan is suspicious about Veronica's secrecy (planning his birthday) and vows to find her out, so she recruits his friends to throw up a smoke screen. A fracture in Veronica's friendship with Wallace opens, but leads to Wallace opening his eyes to see Jackie a bit clearer. An explosion rocks Neptune High leaving emergency services scrambling and seven students in various states of health.
AN- I bet readers who only read my VM stories are not a fan of seeing other story updates or new stories... so here is a new chapter (just 6 days after the last). For this story. Somehow I managed to write several chapters ahead a few weeks back which is why I've been able to update so regularly, but this is the last fully written chapter that was in the pipe so expect chapters to come at 10-15 day intervals for awhile.
Chapter 25: Jar of Hearts
(Friday, October 21)
—VM—LoVe—VM—
Veronica stood in the hall by her locker chatting with Wallace, waiting for Logan to show up. It had been a long time coming but they had almost reached the weekend, and the first of several surprises for Logan's birthday. Her goal for that day was to make sure he was sufficiently distracted so as not to be able to apply his intellect or sheer nosiness to prematurely unveiling their plans.
Wallace: So, we're all set for this weekend? You don't need me to do anything?
Veronica: Are you still coming on Saturday afternoon?
Wallace: Yeah. I'll be there.
Veronica: Then, no.
Wallace: My costume is gonna be tight, yo!
He stepped away from her to high-five one of his teammates, who smiled at Veronica casually.
Kevin Powel: (checking the hall for Logan before talking) Thanks for the... you know.
Veronica: Yeah. See you there.
Kevin Powel: You know it.
Veronica had worked hard on the guest list, including all of Logan's friends, but also some of the people that didn't belong to the school's highest social echelon, including some of the jocks and people like Carmen.
Wallace: So, ah, you need me to lie to our parents on where you're spending your nights?
Veronica: No. I'm going with honesty these days.
Wallace: (joking/incredulous) You?
Veronica: Hmm.
Looking down the hall to see what had captured her attention, he was unsurprised to find Logan approaching them.
Wallace: Hey man.
Logan nodded in greeting, his gaze not moving off Veronica.
Wallace: And there's that look... (looking from Logan to V) on both your faces. I'm out.
Wallace walked away, heading to his class instead of Jackie's locker, as Logan stopped very close to Veronica, kissing her lightly in greeting.
Logan: All's good with your bestest BFF again?
Veronica: Ninety percent.
Logan: Careful, you're going soft.
His gaze drifted down her body, eyes dark with memories of the one time before when she'd worn this particular outfit.
-Flashback
On the party bus after Dick's Invisible Children event, Logan shifted and slipped his sweatshirt off, placing it over Veronica to keep her warm. At least that's what she thought until she felt him tug her shirt up, his large warm hand settling over her taunt stomach.
Veronica: What are you doing?
Logan: Nothing.
Veronica: Liar.
Logan: I thought that we had added a special addendum for "nothing."
His hand continued on its path, cupping her breast through the soft lace of her bra.
Veronica: (smirking) No.
He slowly caressed her, massaging the tender flesh lightly, then tracing her nipple with his fingertips.
Logan: I could have sworn. What with all the 'nothings' you've been giving me lately.
Veronica: If you'd like to renegotiate…
She broke off as he rolled her nipple between his fingers, causing her to draw in a sharp breath.
Logan: I would. And I know exactly what I would like.
His other hand slid up her thigh, his fingers raising a trail of goose bumps on her leg.
Veronica: (cautioning) Logan.
Logan: Actually, we never really settled on a punishment for you for when you broke the rules.
She gave him a dry look, but didn't protest as his hand traced back up her leg, venturing high enough to run his fingers across her panties. She knew that one of his fantasies involved being in public, and she trusted him not to embarrass her, so she let go of her instinctive fear and let him touch her.
-End Flashback
Logan's hand skimmed across her shoulder and to trace up her neck, left bare by her hair that was tied into a loose, high bun.
Logan: I am really loving your outfit choices lately.
Veronica: Your interest in women's fashion is beginning to worry me. (taunting) Maybe you're going soft.
Logan: If you're going to throw aspirations around about my manhood, you should let me mount a defense. Say... in the girls' bathroom.
Veronica: We have class.
Logan: (hopeful) Maybe later?
Veronica: Stranger things have happened.
Logan settled a possessive arm around her, his hand curled around her ribcage, just under her breast as they walked towards their French class. Veronica's tight white tank top and black skirt that skimmed over her petite curves revealing her slight frame, especially in comparison to Logan's larger form. Dressed in a cream colored sweater with a single green stripe which visually exaggerated his wide shoulders and thickly muscled torso, he looked every inch of his 6'1".
—VM—LoVe—VM—
Meg's second period astronomy class was told to assemble outside on the south lawn due to the closure of the science building pending the cleanup and determination of structural integrity for the whole building. The yellow caution tape, reading "do not enter" in block print circled the building.
Once outside Meg frowned realizing they planned to hold class with the student seating on the ground. Meg was wearing a skirt and carefully kneeled down, feeling the prickly grass against her bare legs.
Jason Nash appeared beside her and without a word took off his thick flannel shirt, laying it down on the grass and gesturing Meg towards it.
Meg: Thanks, but you don't have to-
Nash: It's no problem.
He sat a foot away from her and Meg couldn't help glancing in his direction as the sun turned his brown hair into a rich auburn. Wearing just a tank top and some well worn jeans, Meg saw, for the first time, a tattoo along his ribcage, under his arm. A series of words in cursive, Meg tried to read them, but only got so far as the first two lines before he noticed her looking and shifted, turning the tattoo away from her.
Elsewhere on campus, Mac tried to breath normally as she sat in her Spanish class waiting for Dick to arrive. She had no idea how to act around him now, and was hoping she could just follow his lead. As long as his lead wasn't to immediately start making out.
Flushing at the memory of the kisses they'd shared, Mac lost her focus on the door and was startled with Dick slid into the chair next to her.
Dick: Mac-alicious.
Mac: I thought Meg was... alicious.
Dick: Meg's hot. But not really my type.
Mac smiled, unable to do otherwise as she saw his shirt. A simple white t-shirt it read I heart nerds in black lettering.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
Luke and Harry fell into step with Veronica after 3rd period, quickly double checking on the plans for that afternoon, then melting away into the crowd as Veronica neared her journalism class that she shared with Logan.
Inside, Veronica sat next to Logan around a large table as Ms. Dumas, their latest journalism teacher, gave assignments for the following week's student paper. As she finished her list, Veronica raised her hand.
Veronica: Ms. Dumas, shouldn't we include a story about the science lab explosion?
Ms. Dumas: I suppose, are you volunteering Veronica?
Veronica shrugged, her expression revealing her thoughts on the caliber of their teacher. Laughing, Logan fished out a twenty dollar bill and slapped it into Dale's hand.
Dale R: Easy money, man.
Veronica arched one eyebrow. Dale was an 09er who didn't really stand out. He stayed on the sidelines of most of the drama, but still managed to be around for most of the parties and events.
Veronica: Another bet? At least it's just for money.
Both boys frowned.
Logan: Lesson learned.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
At her usual lunch table, Veronica responded to an easy smile from Wallace as he walked to Jackie's table.
Logan: (lightly) It's always that last ten percent.
Veronica: Yep. (frowning, shaking her head) No.
Logan: No?
Veronica: No. He likes her, that's his right.
Logan: Just as long as you don't have to see or hear her or about her?
Veronica: Pretty much.
Logan: That'll work.
Veronica rolled her eyes.
Sitting down to lunch, Veronica dug into a piece of barbeque chicken from Phil's. Grabbing a handful of onion rings from the takeout container closest to her and piling them on her plate, she listened as the conversations around ranged from the school explosion to the upcoming weekend.
When Logan shifted his back towards her to talk to Rams and Luke, Meg grabbed Veronica's hand lightly.
Meg: (quietly) Hey, have you ever heard of a saying that starts "Beyond ideas of wrong and right, there is a field."
Logan turned his head, catching the words and focusing on the two blonde girls.
Logan: Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing, there is a field. I'll meet you there. When the soul lies down in that grass, the world is too full to talk about. Rumi.
Meg: That's beautiful.
Veronica smiled at Logan, but her gaze was far away, considering the words.
Veronica: It really is.
Veronica asked Meg where she had heard the quote, but Meg just shrugged and started a conversation with Malia about Kate's fundraiser that night.
Logan leaned down to kiss Veronica softly.
Logan: Let yourself be drawn by the strange pull of what you love. It will not lead you astray.
Veronica: So what you're saying is that you trust me.
Logan: Within reason.
Veronica: Hmm.
Logan: Tell me again what the plans are for tonight?
Veronica: (blinking innocently) If you trusted me, you'd stop asking.
Logan: (archly) Is that how it works for you?
Veronica: You love my surprises.
Logan: I love you.
As the warning bell rang, Veronica looked up to find that their table had emptied. The former occupants having moved to other nearby 09er tables. Logan was leaning in for another kiss, but her phone rang interrupting them.
Veronica: Hold that thought. (answering the call, happiness ringing in her voice) Hello?
Slowly her smile fell, the light in her eyes fading as focused on Logan for a long moment then turned her head to scan the lunch quad.
Veronica: Yeah. I'm still here.
Logan: Veronica?
She squeezed Logan's hand to reassure him.
Veronica: Yeah. You're sure. OK. No. I've got it from here.
She hung up and turned to look at Logan.
Veronica: Good news. We now know who the mole is. (Logan frowned, waiting) Madison Sinclair.
Without hesitation, Logan sprang up and marched towards where Veronica's gaze had been focused. A table by the trash cans, where only one person sat.
Logan: (vibrating with anger) It's hard to believe that you could sink any lower.
Madison: (caustic) What do you want?
Logan: You've been selling information on me to the tabloids, Madison. You're no better than a whore. You have no idea the can of worms you opened.
Madison: Oh please, already made her persona non grata. What else can you do?
Logan: (intense) I haven't even started.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
Walking to 5th period trig while Logan headed off to English Lit to cool his heels, and no doubt begin plotting is revenge, Mac fell in step with Veronica.
Mac: So it's the end of the week.
Veronica: That it is. We missed you at lunch. (smiling with transparent amusement) Where were you? Hiding?
Mac: (ignoring the teasing) You told me I had a week.
Veronica: I did?
Mac: On Monday.
Veronica: Oh, right. Elmo yes or Elmo no.
Mac: You did say a week right?
Veronica: Well, yeah, but it wasn't like a hard deadline... more a suggestion.
Mac: That might have been worth mentioning.
Veronica smiled widely.
Veronica: Sorry?
Mac rolled her eyes.
Mac: Well anyway...Like I said,I don't know if I can date a guy that you've nicknamed Elmo.
Veronica: So you decided against Elmo.
Mac: How'd you know that?
Veronica: You're over it.
Mac: But how did you know?
Veronica: It's a girl thing.
Mac: Damnit. I was hoping it was a PI thing.
Veronica: Nope, sorry. All girly powers.
Veronica: One more question, Mac.
Mac: Sure, why not?
Veronica: What about Dick? I mean you don't seem to have a problem with the idea of dating a guy I nicknamed Vagina, so maybe there is more there than you want to admit.
Mac: I don't know...
Veronica: Would you like another of my fabulously succinct summaries?
Mac looked wary.
Veronica: You like Dick, but you're not sure you can trust him, you don't know what his motives are, and frankly he's not the type of guy you ever imagined yourself with, so the whole thing is a stretch.
Mac: Is this more of your girl powers in action, because I might be frightened.
Veronica: Am I right?
Mac: (hedging) Maybe.
Veronica: Maybe I could say one more thing? And you have to promise to never repeat it anywhere to anyone ever, or I will get my revenge.
Mac: Yeah, OK. (laughing)
Veronica: I think you, maybe, kinda, (grimacing) could, maybe trust Dick.
Mac was astonished.
Veronica: He waited a long time for you Mac.
Mac: What?
Veronica: This isn't a crush, at least not a flavor of the week crush.
Mac's look was questioning.
Veronica: He's liked you since this summer.
Mac stopped walking nearly causing a collision as the students following behind them had to veer to the side to avoid the senior girls.
Mac: What?
Veronica: And Logan thinks maybe since spring break.
Mac was stunned.
Mac: How long have you known?
Veronica: Since August. Give or take.
Mac: August?! That was weeks ago.
Veronica: Yeah. So?
Arriving at their classroom, the slid into their usual seats.
Mac: So, why didn't you tell me?
Veronica: (shrugging) Why would I tell you? You were with Elmo, you were trying to work it out, knowing that just would have made things harder.
Mac processed that, remembering all the time she'd spent with Dick over the summer and since then.
Mac: But...
Veronica: Yeah.
Mac: And it's Dick.
Veronica: I know.
Mac: That doesn't make sense.
Veronica: Which part?
Mac: All of it. Dick liking me, Dick liking me and not saying anything about it. You knowing and letting him live. I mean, you hate him.
Veronica: I did. Not so much anymore. (conspiratorial smile) He's been a good friend to a good friend of mine. And Logan too. I suppose even I have to admit he has some redeeming traits.
Mac: (smiling) Don't worry, your secret is safe with me.
Mac: I can't believe you're encouraging me to date Dick.
Veronica: Oh, no, I'm not. I gave up matchmaking a long time ago. But, the thing is Mac, you deserve to be happy. And you deserve to be happy with a guy who knows how great you are. It's up to you to decide which guy will make you happy. If it's Dick, I promise not to make vomiting noises when you kiss him, and if it's Elmo, I promise to...
Mac: Stop calling him Elmo?
Veronica: Only to his face.
Mac laughed.
Veronica: I like John. I least I did. And I even get a bit of where he was coming from in all of this, but...
Mac: But?
Veronica: No, no, this is your decision.
Mac: Great, for once Veronica Mars is not willing to share her opinion.
Veronica: You don't need my opinion Mac-attack. You'll know what to do.
Mrs. Bennett entered setting down her bag and bottle of water before starting to write on the board.
Mac: That's it? This talk is even worse than our sex talk.
Veronica laughs.
Veronica: Ok, how about this. Don't let fear make your choice. I had to really work on taking chances to let Logan in before we even started dating. And you know what happened after, trusting him again and again damn near killed me. But the thing is, deep down I always knew.
Mac: Why did you do it? You two had an ugly history, why give him a chance in the first place?
Veronica: You were there, Logan wouldn't back off, he was in my face every day, making sure I saw him, making sure he was in my thoughts. And eventually the lure of what could be was enough for me to make the leap. I'm not going to lie, it's hard, and it's scary, and Logan is a giant pain in the ass on an almost weekly basis.
Mac: Weekly?
Veronica: Daily?
Both girls grin.
Veronica: But the thing is, it's worth it.
Mac: Maybe. If you make the right choice.
Veronica: Exactly. Just be up front with him. I think Dick might surprise you.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
After the final bell rang, Mac walked down the hall, seeing Enbom standing with Rams and Luke. She frowned, but slowly her face cleared. Somehow in the past few weeks her feelings for him had changed. Lessened. Mac wasn't ready to jump into anything new, but she wasn't going to torture herself over John Enbom anymore either.
Seeing Dick she veered off course to meet him.
Mac: I'm not ready to date anyone. Now.
Dick: He really hurt you didn't he?
Mac: Well, yeah. But what I mean is I'm not ready now. Later, I might be. But not now. So, if you want, we could still be friends.
Dick: Until later.
Mac: Yeah. Maybe.
Dick: OK. So friends hang out, right?
Mac: Yeah. I guess.
Dick: Then let's hang out.
Mac: OK. Sure, we'll hang out sometime.
Dick: Tonight.
Mac: Tonight?
Dick: Yep. I'll pick you up.
Reeling at the speed with which he turned around her rejection.
Mac: Uh, I can meet you somewhere.
Dick: (easily) OK. Meet me at my house, a quarter to 7.
Mac: (reluctant) Your house?
Dick: That's what I said. I'll let you destroy me at the game of your choice then we'll head over to Kate's shindig.
Mac: Oh...
Dick: See you later Mackie.
Mac: Uh...
Dick walked away before she can back out. Spinning around he grined at her.
Dick: Oh, hey, I killed my phone so don't try to call. I'll just see you later.
Mac: Uh...Oh...
He hurried away.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
At San Diego International airport, Keith and Alicia stood in line to go through the security checkpoint. Alicia looked anxious.
Keith: Something wrong?
Alicia: No… just…
Keith: Did you forget something?
Alicia: No. Have you noticed anything off between Wallace and Veronica the last few days?
Keith shrugged and Alicia sent him an unimpressed look.
Alicia: That means you know something.
Keith: There might be some friction between Veronica and Wallace's girlfriend.
Alicia: Umm. Jackie. I can see that.
Keith: I wouldn't worry. They'll work it out.
Alicia: I know.
But far from easing her mind, Alicia seemed to get tenser as their departure time grew closer.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
Mac was standing stock still in the middle of a fast emptying hall when Veronica came up to her.
Veronica: Hey. You look...confused? (guessing) Constipated? Worried?
Mac: Maybe all three.
Veronica: What's up?
Mac: I took your advice and told Dick we couldn't date.
Veronica: (cautiously) OK.
She took a step and Mac surged to life, following behind the short blonde.
Mac: But then...he asked me to hang out with him.
Veronica: (not understanding) You two hang out all the time.
Mac: Before he kissed me.
Veronica: OK. You hung out all the time which lead to him kissing you and that lead to him asking you out, but you said no, but you agreed to still hang out with him. (pregnant pause) Are you worried that he's going to kiss you again?
Mac: I don't know.
Veronica: (slowly) OK. I'm trying here Mac, but you don't seem that alarmed at the prospect of Dick's lips touching yours and you hang out with him all the time, so...
Mac: So the hanging out sounded a lot like a date.
Veronica just grinned and shrugged.
Veronica: So tell him you can't make it. If you don't want to have a maybe-date with him.
Mac: I would. Maybe. But he said he lost his phone.
Veronica: Oh. (grins) Well played. I think you have to give this round to Dick.
Mac continued to look confused.
Veronica watched as Mac walked towards her car in a daze of confusion, until her view was cut off as Logan and his friends circled around her. Logan rested a hand at the small of her back and she smiled up at him.
Enbom: Hey Logan, looks like we have some plans to make.
Logan looked blank.
Rams: Madison.
Logan: Yeah.
Luke: We're in.
Harry: All of us.
Veronica: 09er solidarity at its best.
Enbom: Now good?
Logan: Uh, actually-
Dick: Oh, sorry dude, we'll ask the keeper of your balls. Yo V, can Logan come out to play?
Veronica: Sure. As long as he's back and ready by 7 tonight. Not tomorrow morning.
Rams: (winking) Got it.
Logan dipped his head down towards Veronica and Dick made a whipping sound.
Rams: Ignore him, he's just jealous. He'd whip himself if Mac asked him too.
The guys all laughed except for Enbom who frowned, but held his tongue. Logan ignored them closing his arms around Veronica's back.
Logan: Seven tonight. Any hints?
Veronica: Nope.
Logan: Should I dress casual?
Veronica: As opposed to?
Logan: Formal. Nautical. Ballroom. Au natural.
Veronica: (laughing) No. Casual will do. (shrugging one shoulder while tilting her head to the side and shooting him a flirtatious look) But maybe you could wear one of those Henley shirts I like?
Logan: I'd complain about being objectified, but I have a feeling you're going to make it up to me.
Her lips were still curved into a wide smile when his mouth met hers in a long kiss.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
Cut to Logan looking quizzically at his friends as they sat at a strip mall sandwich shop. Luke, Dick, and Rams pretended not to notice and Enbom quickly tried to think of something else to do.
Enbom: Hey, why don't we go to Boomers?
Dick: (booming with laughter) Why the hell would we do that? We haven't been there since we were like 12.
Rams socked him in the shoulder and Dick reconsidered.
Dick: Hey, yeah, that sounds like a good idea. Let's go.
Logan stared each of them in the face but they avoided his eyes except for Luke who grinned back at him.
Luke: (to Logan) Just go with it man. Trust me.
Enbom nodded, and Rams and Dick smirked back at Logan who gave in, shrugging his shoulders. They had drug him out of school and not let him out of their sight since. And not let him go home or call Veronica. They had been out for two hours, first playing video games at GameLand, then grabbing snacks, now even though they were all getting bored they continued to hang out inventing things to do, like stop at a gas station to get a drink, then another to get gas. Now they were going to play miniature golf and bumper cars. They were obviously keeping Logan away from his house or away from Veronica.
Logan frowned and stopped Enbom before they climbed into Enbom's black BMW. His mind conjured up images of Veronica investigating a murder or searching a field for another missing girl.
Logan: Just tell me one thing. Is Veronica doing something I'm not going to be happy about? I already know the surprise party is not until tomorrow.
Enbom paused, surprised, then smiled and shook his head.
Dick: (disappointed) Dude, you know about that?
Enbom: Nah, man, it's nothing like that. Veronica is, uh, well she's safe. She's getting your present ready. I guess.
Rams: Trust us. You're gonna like this.
Dick: Not that she really told us anything.
Luke: (to Dick) Shewants it to be a surprise, so of course she didn't tell you.
Dick flipped Luke off and tried to get him in a headlock. Logan ignored them and sat back in his seat, wondering what Veronica could be up to.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
The boys didn't stay at Boomers long, electing to race go-karts rather than play miniature golf. They'd only been there 20 minutes when Dick and Rams made their excuses, leaving Luke, Enbom and Harry to deliver Logan home at the set time.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
At Rams' house Kate and her friends were getting ready in the upstairs guest room that had been assigned to Kate, not that she slept there. She appreciated the Kettner's hospitality, and would smile along to let them pretend not to know where she really slept.
She looked at her two best friends, Peyton with her blonde curls and softly rounded face was wearing a standard LBD (little black dress) with a sweetheart top and short flared skirt. Shawnee was wearing a boatneck dress with a cut out back that made her athletic shoulders look even wider, but Kate just smiled.
Kate: You both look beautiful.
Shawnee: So do you.
Peyton: Rams will eat his tongue.
Kate smiled and struck a pose, feeling normal for the first time in weeks. The nightmares had started the first time after Lilly's murder and the release of the crime scene video. They'd started again at the anniversary, when the media dredged up all the details to sell a few magazines and bring in a few viewers. To them Lilly was just a salacious story. But the people who loved her still felt her loss.
Kate smoothed her hands down her sides, feeling the cool slide of silk under her hands. The dress draped loosely over her curves, with long ties from the halter neck hanging down her back, which was left bare. A horizontal column of ruffles adorned the front of the dress, lessening the daring cut of the back with the demure of loose ruffles.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
Cut to Veronica in Logan's house, setting out candles around the house and wine and chocolate on a butler's tray next to a newly delivered poker table. The dining table pushed over to the wall to make room. She was dressed in a short robe with her hair tied back in a ponytail. She walked quickly out to the lower patio and adjusted the white table cloth on the outdoor dining table before fiddling with the red linen napkins and place setting.
She wandered back inside, suddenly at a loss for what to do. Seeing the clock on the microwave, her eyes widened and she raced up the stairs to shower and get ready, the food was being delivered in just under an hour and she needed to be dressed by then.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
At Dick's house Mac and Dick were sitting companionably on the couch with video game controllers in their hands. They playfully talked smack to each other as their fingers raced over the buttons. When Dick won, killing off Mac's character, he stood up to do a happy dance making her laugh.
Finally ending his victory celebration, he grinned happily.
Dick: You want more food?
Mac: No, I'm stuffed. Thanks.
Dick had ordered in vegan Indian food. Everything was easy with him. So easy. Talking, playing, laughing, flirting… they had chemistry. Easy camaraderie. And now Mac knew that they had longevity. Now she just had to decide what to do with all of that.
When the time came for them to leave for Kate's event, Dick helped Mac put on her jacket, his hands sweeping down her back to rest on her hips for a moment. Mac turned slowly, the tension thick between them. Dick hesitated, then grinned.
Dick: Don't look so scared. It's just me.
Mac: Just you.
Dick: And a kiss.
Mac: Right.
He leaned down but Mac stopped him, pressing an unsteady hand to his chest.
Mac: I get that there is something… between us…
Dick: Finally!
Mac: But, I'm not really looking for anything serious...OK?
Dick: Is a kiss serious?
Mac: It can be.
Dick: Well… you let me know.
Closing the space between them, Mac closed her eyes, and lifted her mouth to meet his.
Their lips were still moving over each others' when the phone rang.
Beaver: Dick, Dick, are you gonna get that… oh. Sorry.
Dick opened his mouth to respond to his brother's interruption when the answering machine picked up and a familiar voice rang out.
Big Dick: Dick? Son? If you're there, pickup. There are things we need to talk about.
Dick rushed to the phone to pickup.
Dick: Dad, hey… did you hear about Cass? He's OK, but-?
Big Dick: Dick, I didn't call about your brother. I need you to do something for me. Some papers I have in a safe deposit box-
Dick: Are you divorcing Kendall?
Big Dick: Not yet.
Dick: Coming home?
Big Dick: No.
Dick: (angry) Then get your own damn papers.
Dick hung up, looking up at his brothers wan face.
Dick: It's Ok little bro, we don't need him as long as we have each other.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
Cut to Logan being dropped off at his house, his friends grinning at him madly. He shook his head at them and turns to walk to the front door. Enbom popped his head out of his SUV window and hollered at Logan.
Enbom: Use the garage.
Logan: What?
Enbom: Go in through the garage.
With a squeal of tires the boys were gone and Logan walked up to enter the code to open the garage door. Entering he saw a classic black and white tuxedo hanging on the door leading to the house with a note pinned to it. "Put it on." The note wasn't signed but a lipstick kiss marked the bottom of the sheet.
Logan smiled, slow and sexy, and changed clothes quickly. He knocked lightly on the door before opening it, not wanting to ruin Veronica's surprise. Backup ran to him, his nails clicking on the hardwood and licked Logan's hand before darting towards the main part of the house. Logan heard her call out, from some distance.
Veronica: Come in.
Logan: Veronica?
He took a few steps inside, his eyes searching the semi-darkness for her. The overhead lights are off with only the small pendant lights over the kitchen island on, and even those are dimed. Candles litter the room, filling it with their warm light and fragrance. The stereo was on low, and Logan smirked hearing 'Underneath it all' by No Doubt playing. He still didn't see Veronica as he walked further into the great room, seeing that the poker table was set up as well as two bottles of wine, a few more of hard liquor, and a tray of dark chocolates and other snacks nearby. Backup ran back to him, then towards the open doors to the deck and Logan followed, knowing that is what the dog wanted.
Logan walked outside to find Veronica sitting by the fire pit which was burning brightly. Backup leapt up to sit beside her, looking at Logan eagerly. She stood up and his eyes traced over her from head to toe.
Her hair was back loosely in a low ponytail, with messy strands curving around her face. It looked effortless and natural, but Logan knew enough about women's fashion to know that she'd probably spent a good amount of time on it. Her lips were red and she had made her eyes dark and smoky with makeup. She was wearing a long strapless black dress with a red satin ribbon tied just under her breasts. Her shoes are tall and strappy and his eye traced back up the high slit in the dress, appreciating the flash of black stocking, until he reached her eyes again.
Logan: Definitely worth the wait.
Veronica: What?
Logan: You had the guys keep me busy and out of the house and away from you all afternoon.
Veronica: Ah. (faux pout) I thought you'd enjoy a day with your best buds.
Logan: I could have been enjoying you instead.
Veronica: Well, I hear you complaining, but…I'm still over here and you're…not.
Logan smiled and came around the fire pit to take her in his arms. He kissed her slowly, taking his time and running his hands over her body. Breaking the kiss he pressed his forehead against hers.
Veronica: Happy Birthday.
Logan: It's not my birthday yet.
Veronica: (sad moue) No? Well, I'll just have to get you another gift when it is your actual birthday.
She took his hand and led him over to the outdoor dining table, elegantly set up with white and red linens, red roses, and white candles in hurricane candle holders. Domed silver trays covered the two place settings, and Logan looked at Veronica curiously.
Logan: You shouldn't have.
Veronica: Oh, believe me, I didn't. I decorated, but I hired people to cook. I didn't want to kill you, not yet anyway.
Logan laughed a little and pulled the chair out for her to sit. Before taking his own seat he kissed her cheek and was pleasantly surprised when she placed a hand on his cheek and kept him there for a longer kiss.
Dinner consisted of a garden salad with baby vegetables dressed in a champagne vinaigrette, braised beef tenderloin in a cabernet sauvignon and shallot sauce with trifled twice baked potato and gorgonzola cream sauce. Logan opened the bottle of wine on the table and poured them each a glass. The candle light illuminated the red wine, and Logan raised his glass in a toast.
Logan: To celebrating another year, this one, (closes his eyes as if to pray) please God, better than the last few. (He smiled softly at Veronica.) How could it not be, now that we're together.
Veronica: To a good year.
They clinked glasses and sipped the wine.
When Logan took his first bite of the steak he turned to Veronica, pure bliss on his face.
Logan: Where did you order from? (reverent) This is fantastic.
He quickly took another bite, saturating it in the wine sauce.
Veronica: (smiling) Bertrand at Mr. A's. I figured anything I ordered would be good.
Logan: (chewing) It is good. I'll have to take you there again sometime.
Veronica: I'm glad you like it.
Logan: (He didn't answer with words since his mouth is full.) Hmm.
She laughed lightly at his enthusiasm. Logan was acting like he lived off fast food and macaroni and cheese, but she knew he absolutely didn't. Mrs. Navarro kept him well fed with healthy, fresh food, and the rest of the time he ordered in from restaurants that were all known for good food.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
At Kate's fundraiser, Kate stood with Meg, Peyton and a few other of the cheerleaders, who had been helping her keep the event going smoothly. Kate was tired, but she felt a sense of accomplishment. She'd put so much into the event and while she'd had personal reasons for that, she wanted it to be successful. She wanted to help the kids at Neptune's less fortunate schools. She wanted to give them something good to remember. And even if the event flopped, she would have succeeded.
Flights to the state capital, computers and supplies for their classrooms, funds to pay for transport for fieldtrips, as well as several amazing speakers were lined up to visit the schools, not least of which was Neil Armstrong.
Kate: I wanted to thank you all for helping. (Kate looked from Peyton to Meg, Britta and Karen.) It means a lot. Beauty and brains, ladies. We have it all. Now, we just need to find guys worthy of Britta and Meg.
Britta laughed but Meg's eyes grew wide.
Britta: Seen any likely candidates?
Peyton: The new guy showed up tonight.
Meg: He's not really new anymore, is he?
Britta: And he's not really free, if you saw the way he was looking at Meg earlier.
Meg flushed.
Meg: It's nothing. We're class partners.
Kate smiled. Meg was wearing a black dress with a floral lace overlay, and she looked pretty and, as always, innocent. Malia's dress was somewhat similar, but Luke's girlfriend looked fun with a little bit of sexy thrown in.
Meg: (desperately) What about Harry?
Kate: (surprised) You like Harry Didden?
Meg: For Britta.
Britta: He's cute, but I've known him since I was like 2 years old.
Karen: We all have, hazard of a small town.
Britta: Says the girl who's been dating the same guy for five years.
Kate tuned out the conversation about which guys were free, and which were hot. Looking over the crowed great room at Rams' house that was a sea of black and white. While the girls had all been instructed to wear black, the guys had been told to wear white dress shirts. Kate had wanted everyone to look nice, but she didn't want to focus to be on who wore what.
But there were always a few who needed to been seen and admired. Like Alexis. Kate sighed. The girl was nice, but she acted and dressed as if she was desperate to become a trophy wife before graduation. And like many other girls with boyfriends, Kate didn't appreciate Alexis flirting with Rams. Not that she thought he would cheat, but Alexis was beautiful and it was a kick to her ego. She looked at Alexis again, hating that she looked beautiful in a tight black dress that dipped nearly down to her navel, showing off her full round breasts.
While Kate was not immune to wanting to look good and show off, Alexis went a bit too far on most days, looking cheap. For Kate's money, Emily won in the contest for sexy, wearing a black leather dress that covered up her chest but left her looking a little dangerous.
Kate was somewhat surprised to see Duncan Kane there and her mind flashed to Veronica apologizing for not being there. Kate had brushed it off, Veronica had helped organize the event, and helped Kate figure out her big family secret. Besides, it was Logan's birthday. Tuning back into the conversation around her Kate tossed out a suggestion.
Kate: What about Duncan? Not for Meg I guess, she caught the whale and tossed him back, but…
Meg: (quickly) No.
Britta: No. He seems nice and all but have you noticed all his ex's end up hating him?
Kate: What about you Peyton? Any prospects?
Peyton shrugged.
Peyton: I think I'll just sit back to enjoy other people's relationship drama for now.
She nodded towards where Dick was talking with Mac with an expression of rapt adoration, while Enbom stared at them with a mix of volatile emotions shifting across his face.
Alexis: John. (no response) John! I swear, if that's what you like then maybe we should just break up.
Enbom: (walking away) Maybe we should.
Alexis: (following) No, baby, I didn't mean it…
Karen: Ouch.
Peyton: At least some people are happy. You and Rams.
Kate: Yeah. And Andy and Kat.
Karen: Adorable.
Britta: Speaking of adorable, where are Logan and Veronica tonight? (looking enviously at Mac's black pants patterned with a grey damask and loose black top) And why didn't I get the memo that I could wear pants?
Kate: Sorry Bit-Bit.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
At the beach house, Logan and Veronica were just finishing dinner. Veronica stood up and went inside, only to reemerge with a new tray and another bottle of wine. She moved back to the seating by the fire pit and Logan joined her quickly as she pulled out a rawhide bone for Backup that she had hidden behind the bench cushion. Once the pit bull was occupied, she removed the tray cover to reveal crème brulee with biscotti.
A few minutes later Logan grinned at Veronica as she scraped her spoon over her dish, trying to get every last bit of the desert. He had one more bite on his spoon and waited until she noticed him saving it. She made her eyes wide and gave him her best puppy dog eyes, causing him to laugh and hold out his spoon for her without argument.
The music continued playing and Logan listened to the lyrics of the current song as a woman sang about how she and her lover were the lucky ones and how she would give her life for him. Logan's expression sobered some as the words hit home. Oblivious, Veronica looked up from her desert feeling the weight of his stare on her. Her gaze questioned him.
Veronica: Logan?
Logan: I love you.
He was utterly serious.
Veronica: (smiling softly) I know. I love you too.
They sat quietly and listened to the lyrics. She'd chosen all the songs carefully, some for the actual meaning, some for mood.
Lyrics:
"What could i say to you, except, 'I love you.'
And 'I'd give my life for yours.'
I know we are... we are the lucky ones.
I know we are... we are the lucky ones.
I know we are... we are the lucky ones, dear.
The first time we made love, I... I wasn't sober.
(and you told me you loved me over and over!)
How could i ever love another, when I miss you every day...
Remember the time we made love in the roses?
(and you took my picture in all sorts of poses!)
How could I ever get over you, when I'd give my life for yours.
I know we are... we are the lucky ones.
I know we are... we are the lucky ones.
I know we are... we are the lucky ones.
I know we are... we are the lucky ones, dear.
My dear, It's time to say i thank god for you.
I thank god for you in each and every single way.
And, I know... I know... I know... I know...
It's time to let you know. time to let you know.
Time to let you know. time to sit here and say..."
Logan: Do you know how lucky we are?
Her smile grew, and her eyes revealed that she was not unaware of how unlikely that statement is.
Veronica: Lucky? (gently incredulous) Us? I'd hate to see what would happen if we were unlucky.
Logan: Yeah. Lucky. We both survived. We found each other again and found out that we were meant to be together.
She was surprised, but admitted to herself that it could have gone differently so easily. They had each done their best at turns to reject each other. But it never lasted very long. They did seem to always come back together.
Veronica: (twining her fingers around his, softly) Yeah. We are pretty lucky.
Logan leaned over to kiss her again and soon their dishes were pushed out of the way and Logan was easing the zipper on her dress down. She came back to her senses when he trailed his fingers down her spine, pushing him away, the palms of her hands pressed hard against his chest.
Veronica: Nah-uh. Stop. I planned a whole night…
Logan pouted and tried to convince her otherwise, kissing her neck in exactly the spots he knew would seriously weaken her defenses.
Logan: (pulling back to smile smugly at her) Oh, I can fill the whole night. Don't worry about that.
She smiled back, but pushed him away when he tried to close in for another kiss.
Veronica: Nope. Sorry. You're playing by my rules tonight.
Logan sat back and looked at her assessing.
Logan: What if I used a wish?
Veronica: Logan. (cajoling) When have my surprises ever disappointed you?
He smiled, remembering a few of her more memorable surprises.
Veronica: Exactly. Now, what is your plan? To sweep me up to bed right away?
Logan shrugged
Logan: (mildly frustrated, sweeping a hand over his neck and pulling the tie loose) You've never objected to that plan before.
She tried not to laugh at his pout and frustration.
Veronica: No. But, as a smart, sexy, patient man once told me, building the anticipation is pretty good too.
-Flashback
Logan is in the Echolls' the pool house with Veronica, trying to explain to her why he wasn't rushing their physical relationship.
Logan:I care about you, this isn't about getting in your pants.
Her expression softened as she heard his reasoning.
Veronica: (smiles saucily) It's not?
She pouted in disappointment, but as his lips met hers again he felt her smile.
Logan: (low) Don't get me wrong, I fully intend to get into your pants, but for now I'm enjoying building the anticipation.
They kissed then Veronica hooked her leg over his hip and rolled them so she was sitting astride him. He smiled and happily allowed her to take control.
-End Flashback
Logan: (puffing up with pride) I am pretty smart.
Veronica: (smiling, amusement in her tone) And sexy.
Logan: Of course.
Veronica: (trying to repress a smile) If your ego is properly restored now, should we proceed with our evening?
Logan stood and held out a hand to help her up.
Logan: Lead the way.
AN
Words 7505
Here is the previously un-translated French from the beginning of Ch. 22:
Sitting down side by side in their first period French class Veronica was startled when Logan leaned into her space and turned her head to receive a soft kiss.
Veronica: What was that for?
Logan smiled, his eyes full of secrets. Moving his mouth to her ear, he kissed just below her ear before speaking again.
Logan : Je connais ton petit secret... (I know about your little secret...)
Veronica: Huh? Secret what?
Logan: Tu pensais vraiment pouvoir me surprendre? (Did you really think you could surprise me?)
Veronica: You have to slow down, is that this week's vocabulary?
She tried to open her book but he turned her face so their eyes met, mere inches separating them.
Logan: Je suis au courant pour la soirée, et je sais que tu complotes avec mes amis. Mais comme je t'aime et que j'apprécie l'effort, je vais faire semblant de ne pas savoir. Je vais même avoir l'air surpris quand le moment viendra, mais uniquement parce que je t'aime tellement. ( I know about the party and your plotting with my friends. But since I love you and appreciate the effort, I'm going to pretend that I don't know. I'll even act surprised when the time comes, but only because I love you so much.)
Veronica: Je t'aime. I understood that part at least.