Happy... time between Thanksgiving and Christmas... As always, please review. That's our pact. I write you review. Then we're all happy.
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. Deciding that going back is not an option, she hesitates to jump forward. 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. The mole is revealed, Kate's fundraiser happens and part one of Logan's birthday surprise is sprung.
Chapter 26: Double Down
(Friday, October 21, cont.)
Rams looked around his large living room, not seeing the reddish hair of his (now live in) girlfriend among the sea of black and white attire. He walked outside, looking into the backyard that was full of at least another hundred of their classmates.
Peyton passed by, two wait staff following her, looking busy.
Peyton: If you're looking for Kate, I think I saw her going upstairs.
Rams nodded, looking around with a happy smile. The event had gone well, with the auction bringing in a good amount of cash to go along with the donations Kate and her gaggle of girlfriends had managed to secure or make the guys secure.
Heading back inside he stopped here and there in the crowd, talking to friends.
Matt Barone: Tomorrow is going to be off the hook.
Rams: Yeah, should be a good night.
Jimmy Day: Are you kidding? It's going to be awesome. Girls go nuts over costume parties.
Rams: Don't you have a girlfriend, dude?
Jimmy Day: Yeah. So?
Rams laughed.
Jimmy Day: Did you hear that Enbom dumped his super hot, super slutty girlfriend? Think she'd be up for some revenge sex?
Rams: You're disgusting.
Jimmy shrugged.
Upstairs, Rams paused to listen then followed the sounds of a girl laughing to the upstairs video game room that his parents never came in. Pushing open the door, he found Andy and Kat wrapped around each other on the large, comfortable, and according to Kate, hideously ugly couch.
Rams grinned, watching as Andy ran a careful, respectful hand up the little Asian dancer's back. Her hair had been up in a neat bun but now tumbled down around her shoulders.
Rams was about to turn around to leave when Hank appeared at his side. He saw what Rams was looking at, releasing a wide grin that made him look dangerously mischievousness.
The couple on the couch rolled over, managing to execute the maneuver without landing on the floor or tearing Kat's dress which was now rucked up around her upper thighs as Andy lay overtop of her, trying to keep his weight off his petite girlfriend. When Andy's hands went towards Kat's chest, Rams cleared his throat loudly, since it was clear Hank had no intention of leaving yet.
Rams: Ah-hum.
Andy: Shit! (Andy scrambled to cover Kat with his body, glaring at the door.) Get out.
Hank: (complaining to Rams) Why'd you ruin it… just when it was getting good.
Kat flushed but managed to keep cool, arching a unimpressed eyebrow at her boyfriend's brother and best friend.
Kat: It's not a show, if you're looking for porn I'm sure there is some around here somewhere or, you know, on the Internet.
Rams laughed.
Rams: Sorry, just looking for Kate. Not used to there being any other girls up here.
Andy groaned, burying his face in Kat's neck.
Hank: I like her. Good work Andy. Picking her, not… you know. But Good work on that too. Bravo all around.
Andy: Out!
Rams grabbed Hank by the back of his neck towing him out of the room and closing the door quietly.
Pointing Hank back towards the stairs, Rams went to the room Kate was using, finding it empty of people but full of all the stuff that girls seemed to need and yet leave lying around unused. Checking his room last, Rams found Kate sprawled out across his bed, her face relaxed and peaceful in sleep. Closing the door behind him, he sat down beside her, running a hand down her back, left bare by her dress.
Shawnee suddenly pushed the door open.
Shawnee Farver: Oh, you found Kate, good, I need… (her voice dropped, getting quieter) Is she sleeping?
Rams: Yeah.
Shawnee Farver: (whispering) Oh, OK. That's good right?
All Kate's good friends knew what she had been through recently with the revelations about her family, but they'd managed to keep the story from hitting Neptune High's gossip.
Rams: Did you need something?
Shawnee Farver: No. I will totally handle it. You just stay here and… guard Kate.
Rams: Guard her?
Shawnee Farver: Well, your house is full of guys, and girls, teetering on the edge of drunkenness.
Rams: Fair point.
Shawnee Farver: I'll get the girls to help with the cleanup and getting everyone out. You just stay here with Kate.
Rams nodded, looking at his girlfriend's best friend as she smiled brightly and flounced out of the room, slamming the door behind her.
Shawnee Farver: (from the hallway) Sorry.
Rams shook his head looking to see that Kate was still sleeping.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
Cut to Veronica and Logan sitting at the poker table inside. One bottle of wine was open and nearly empty, the pile of chocolates and snacks was noticeably smaller and Logan was without his jacket and tie, and was in the process of removing his tuxedo shirt. Veronica smirked at him.
Veronica: Nice.
He removed the shirt, revealing a white wife beater on under it. She pouted.
Veronica: I didn't put that out for you to wear.
Logan smiled, shaking his head.
Logan: Who would have thought Veronica Mars was so eager to play strip poker?
Veronica shrugged. Picking up the cards and playing with them he pulled one from the deck and smiled at the words she'd written on the face of it. "I love the way you smell." Veronica had adorned about half the cards in the deck with some little message.
Veronica: What can I say, I like to play to my strengths.
Logan: You really think you're going to win?
Veronica: Uh, looks pretty likely to me.
She had his jacket, tie, shirt, and one of his shoes. He only had her shoes, stockings, and the red sash that had been tied under her breasts.
Logan: You are more dressed than I am, but… (He picked up one of the thigh highs and ran it through his fingers, caressing the fabric sensuously.) The game can turn on a dime, Veronica.
Veronica: We'll see.
She smiled like she knew something he didn't and he quickly realized what that was. She knew how many pieces of clothing he was wearing (except for the undershirt) while he had no idea what she had on under her dress. Not that he was complaining. Finding out was fun too. And really, there was only one conclusion to the night.
Logan won a hand and sat back in his chair, eyes glued to her. Acting casual, Veronica stood up and reached behind to her slowly unzip her dress letting it slide down her body to her feet. Logan's eyes followed its descent then raced up her body taking in the black tight fitting mini skirt she seemed to have on now, his mouth quirking in disappointment then rising up farther to see that she was wearing a black lace, mostly see through bustier that he had bought for her at La Perla.
She cocked one eyebrow at him waiting for him to complain about her layers. It took a full minute for him to raise his eyes to her face, now filled with amusement.
Veronica: Nothing to say?
Logan: I'd like to amend your earlier description of me. Smart, sexy, patient and I have good taste. (She cocked her hip to the side putting one hand on it with attitude.) In lingerie and girlfriends.
She rolled her eyes and retook her seat at the formal poker table, concentrating on the game. Fortunately she had the sense to set the rules of the game to be once you lost an item of clothing you couldn't win it back so both were quickly becoming undressed. She now had Logan's undershirt and was hoping to win his pants in the next hand, if she could just concentrate on the cards and not on his chest. With the wine making her head fuzzy, and Logan's constant stream of come ons, it was a more difficult task than she'd anticipated.
Unfortunately for her and fortunately for him, he won again and Veronica peeled the black body shaper off, wiggling her hips side to side, much to Logan's enjoyment. Hoping to distract him a little more, she spun in a small circle showing the daring cut of the panties she wore, which revealed most of her butt to his avid gaze.
Logan: I'll make you a deal.
Veronica: Oh? What's that?
Logan: You can have my pants if you just come over here for five minutes.
Veronica: (doubtful) Five minutes.
Logan: Yep.
Veronica: I don't think so.
Logan: (smirking) So, no deal?
Veronica: No deal.
Logan: It sounds as if you don't trust me, Ms. Mars.
Veronica: I don't trust your intentions, birthday boy.
The next two hands went to her, and he was left in his black silk boxers and puka shell necklace. Veronica teasingly ran her eyes down his body slowly, biting her lip to hold in her laughter when he growled.
Logan: Deal the cards, I'm ready to unwrap my gift.
Veronica: Is that what you're calling it? I wasn't aware that we'd settled on a name.
He stared at her.
Logan: I meant you.
Veronica ducked her head, and picked up her glass of wine, trying to hide her smile.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
At Kate's fundraiser the silent auction had just ended with the winners being called out.
Jackie: I hope I win the spa day. I need a facial.
Wallace: You look great.
Jackie smirked at Wallace and he felt insulted, but he wasn't sure why. Logan's name being called out caught Wallace's attention and he realized Veronica's boyfriend must have asked someone to bid on something for him even if he and V had opted not to attend.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
With both of them down to their underwear, Veronica knew the game was coming to an end. She had two pieces left to lose, compared to Logan's one, but she was certain that as soon as she lost the bustier the game would be over. Logan had been a good sport, letting her draw out the evening, but he was definitely ready to end the game.
When Veronica drew two jacks in her next hand, she was certain of her victory, but the self-satisfied look on his face when she laid down her cards let her know she was wrong.
Logan: (bragging) Nice hand, just not enough.
Logan laid down his cards, revealing three queens. Insufferably smug, he pushed back from the table, leaning back in his chair and crossing his arms behind his head as he waited for her. Suppressing her answering smile, she stood and walked the few steps it took to place her between his legs. Holding his gaze she reached behind her to untie the lacing of the bustier, but Logan stopped her.
Logan: No.
Veronica: No?
Logan: Not the bra.
Veronica paused then moved her hands to her waist, skimming them over her hips and down her legs. Logan noted the movement, her efforts at seduction, but kept his gaze locked on her face. He opened his mouth to say that she'd gotten better at the seduction routine, but realized that a statement like that might kill the mood, so he just smiled deeply in appreciation.
Inching closer to him so she was standing between his legs, her thigh brushing his, she eased the small lace panties over her hips and down her legs, inch by inch. Finally he let his gaze trail down her body, over the sharp lines of her collar bones to the upper swell of her breasts, lifted and revealed by the lace bustier. Drifting farther down, he felt a bolt of lust at the sight of her dusky pink nipples, visible through the sheer patches of lace. Moving on, he took a moment to appreciate the curve of her waist and flare of her hips. She was small, but she had curves in all the right places.
Finally his eyes moved down to where the black lace of her panties was slipping over the curve of her thighs before falling to the floor at her feet. Unfolding his arms from behind his head, Logan reached out and trailed his hand over her hip and down her leg. Curling his fingers behind her knee he exerted the smallest bit of pressure and Veronica followed his silent request, lifting her leg and resting it on his. Resting both of her hands on his broad shoulders, she shifted closer to him, goosebumps rising in the wake of his hand as it trailed back up her inner thigh.
She trembled and sighed as his fingers reached their destination, playing over her most sensitive skin, before dipping inside of her heated core to find her wet and ready.
Logan: You enjoyed teasing me all night.
Veronica: I wanted you to… enjoy your present.
Logan: Oh, I will. I promise.
He pulled her closer, Veronica keeping steady by tightening her hold on his shoulders as he kissed each of her breasts in turn through the lace of her bustier. Standing up, he cupped his hands around her hips lightly, drawing her into his chest and kissing her teasingly, before trailing kisses down her neck as his hands wandered over her exposed flesh.
Logan: If I forget to mention it later, I think this might have be my best birthday ever.
Veronica: (breathy) Ever? Is that counting non-birthday-birthdays? 'Cause I feel like you enjoyed that… occasion, fairly… vigorously.
-flashback
At Logan's old house, now burned to ash, Veronica and Logan had escaped Aaron's attempt to reconnect with his son through a surprise party. After laying to rest some old issues,she pushed him backwards angling him towards the bed, her hands on his chest. He arched an eyebrow at her, his smile growing bigger. She pushed him down onto the bed, toeing off her shoes before she crawled up his body as he scooted backwards coming to a stop and taking her hips in his hands as she straddled him. She leaned down to kiss him, but he turned his head so her lips landed on his cheek.
Logan: (smiling) No more talking?
Veronica: I'm sorry, we're past the confessional portion of this program. We're on to the make out.
After kissing for several minutes Veronica sat back up still straddling Logan's prone body.
Veronica had tried to give him something she thought he would want, namely a blow job, but he had seen her discomfort and asked for another form of gift instead.
Logan: Since I'm the non-birthday boy don't you think I should have a say in my present?
Veronica: (pressing her lips together) Um, no. I don't think that's how it works. You get whatever someone wants to give you.
He'd asked for them to have sex in her bed, and while she'd said yes (with the caveat that they wait for her dad to go out of town first), she'd pushed him for what he wanted that she could give him in the moment.
In a quick move he rolled so she was under him, settling his erection into the cradle of her hips, her legs automatically widening to fit with him.
Logan: I want to know what you want. What you like.
She blinked rapidly at him.
Veronica: (simultaneously sincere and unsure) I like everything we've done together Logan.
Logan: Everybody likes some things more than others. (slow smile) Will you tell me what you like?
She was obviously embarrassed and her eyes shifted away from him.
Veronica: I…I…(she stutters)
Logan: (kissing her neck under her jaw) Like this. Do you like this Veronica?
Veronica: (hands running over his back) You know I do.
Logan: Yeah. But do you like it more than this?
His mouth moved down to where her neck met her shoulder and he sucked lightly. Her happy sigh sounding in his ear.
Veronica: I don't know. Both are good. (He sucked harder and both can feel her body heat up.) So good.
Logan: OK. Maybe that wasn't a good comparison.
Logan continued to tease her asking what kind of kisses and touches she liked best.
He pushed up off her body, sitting on his knees between her legs to undo her jeans, completely comfortable with his nakedness. He tugged them off, then ran his hands back up from her ankles to the apex of her legs, running his fingers teasingly over the edge of her panties before hooking his fingers into the waistband and tugging them off.
Veronica: I guess you didn't like those?
Logan: (looking at the red silk in his hand) Oh I like them all right. I just like what's under them better.
To prove his point he slid his fingers up her folds surprised to feel how wet she was already. His expression is one of awe and lust.
Logan: I want you so much Veronica. All the time.
-End Flashback
While that hadn't changed, Logan wanting Veronica nearly all the time, she had changed, grown more comfortable with him and her own sexuality the longer they were together. It was a change that Logan appreciated, but he also liked the moments of shyness that still popped up now and then.
Logan: That was a good night. Better than good. But tonight… just you and me…
Veronica: So you're happy?
Her blue eyes searched his face, as if she could be in any doubt, her hands cupping his face softly.
Logan: (murmuring) I'm always happy when I'm with you. (He kissed her mouth softly, lingering there.) I hope, since it is my birthday, that you'll allow me to repeat myself.
Stepping forward and maneuvering her towards the poker table, Logan continued kissing her neck as Veronica ran her hands up his arms, closing them around his shoulders as he lifted her up to sit on the soft bumper of the table. Hands curling behind her knees, he lifted her legs and spread them apart as his mouth moved down her neck.
Veronica: Practice makes perfect.
She recalled the time they'd had sex on the poker table at his pool house, the pool house that was forever etched in her mind for less pleasant memories now. They'd just gotten back together after their first breakup, and were trying to take it slow. That hadn't lasted long. Later Logan had admitted to trying to tempt Veronica, and she had fallen into his arms, not that she had wanted to resist.
-Flashback
Logan undressed Veronica quickly, brushing her bra out of the way with his mouth he sucked on one nipple while working her other breast with his hand. Her back arched off the table when he flicked the pebbled tip with his tongue, her hands pulling him in closer, nails biting into his shoulders.
Veronica moved restlessly against him seeking friction. Quickly growing impatient, Logan hooked his fingers into her underwear, sliding them down her thighs pulling her legs from around his waist to get them off. His hand immediately moved back to her center easily slipping two fingers into her, aided by the wetness he found there.
With a quick flick of his hands his fly popped open and he pushed his jeans and boxers down just enough to free his erection. Pulling her bottom closer to the edge of the table, raised slightly on the leather bumper of the poker table, he plunged into her with one quick movement earning a shriek of approval from her.
-End Flashback
Veronica wrapped her arms around his back, curling her hands over his shoulders.
Logan: You know, one thing would make this night better.
Veronica: Oh? Do tell. (She didn't wait for his words, instead she pressed kisses into his neck, blazing a path to his ear.) You know, since it is your birthday, if you tell me, I might make it happen.
Logan: I love birthdays.
She giggled, making him smile.
Logan: I just want you to say two little words.
Veronica frowned and pulled back from him, her expression confused.
Logan: (smirking) I won.
Veronica: Oh, that's easy. I won.
Logan laughed, shaking his head.
Logan: No, I won. Come on. You can do it. I have faith in you.
Logan's hands cupped her breasts, his thumbs circling her pert nipples.
Logan: Try again.
She bit her lip and shook her head, denying him the words he wanted. Instead she pushed his boxers down and grasped his hard shaft in her small hands.
Logan closed his eyes focused on his breathing for a moment, exerting his control, before looking down at her once again, desire and amusement warring in his brown gaze.
Logan: Why don't you give me what I want-
Veronica: (teasing and flexing her legs around him) What do you think I'm trying to do?
Logan: -Admit I won and I'll give us what we both have been waiting all night for? After all, if we go by the rules set at previous birthdays…
She smirked at him her hands pumping his length slowly, knowing that the birthday boy (or girl) always got whatever they wanted on their birthday. It had been a long standing rule with the foursome of friends made up of them and the Kane siblings. It was a rule they'd continued on Veronica's 18th birthday a few months past.
Veronica: Only because it's your birthday.
Logan: And because I won.
Veronica: I have to defer. The rules were never defined, and while you are completely au natural, I still have one item-
Her taunt was cut off by a shriek of laughter when he tickled her sides lightly.
Logan: (insistent) I won.
Veronica: (smiling happily) You won.
Logan: Finally!
He stopped any further conversation, occupying her mouth with a kiss that left her breathless, her arms and legs wrapped around him tightly. He positioned her on the table, his hands cupping her hips as he pushed into her slowly.
Veronica: (moaning) Logan…
Logan: You feel so good.
Veronica: You too… just… move. Please!
Logan didn't disappoint her, didn't tease her any more, knowing they were both beyond that now. He moved into her with long, slow movements, enjoying every breathy sound of pleasure she made until she began panting loudly, her breathing loud and labored.
Veronica: Logan, please… faster.
He grunted in reply, obeying her command, speeding his thrusts until they both came, Logan leaning heavily against her as he got himself back together.
VVO: Loving Logan was like a poker match that required you to go all in. It was all or nothing, and you had to take the risk to get the reward.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
Shivering slightly as the sweat dried on her skin, Logan withdrew from her and helped her to her feet. Picking up his discarded shirt he draped it around her shoulders with her still perched on the edge of the poker table.
Logan: Thank you for a perfect birthday.
Veronica: Oh, it's not over yet.
Logan: There's more?
Veronica: (teasing) Just a little thing.
Logan waited, wondering if she knew that he'd figured out that they were holding a surprise party for him the next night.
Veronica: I can spend the night.
Logan: (smiling happily) Music to my ears.
Veronica: Actually, the whole weekend. (Logan looked surprised.) My dad took Alicia out of town for a few days.
Logan: Well… happy birthday to me.
He kissed the smile off her face, running his hands down her back.
Breaking apart, Logan leaned in to kiss her forehead gently then stepped back.
Logan: I'll take Backup out.
Veronica: Then I'll clean up in here.
Logan pulled on his tuxedo pants, before going outside. Collecting the two domed silver trays and carrying them back inside, he whistled for Backup who came eagerly. Logan disappeared back outside again, her dog at his heels. Veronica had trained Backup to stay on the deck unless one of them took him onto the beach, allowing the pitbull to have more outdoor time as long as he abided by her rules.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
Upstairs in Logan's room, Veronica washed the makeup off her face, before squeezing toothpaste on her toothbrush (a permanent fixture at Logan's). Logan stepped up behind her, picking up his toothbrush and holding it out for her to apply toothpaste. He stood behind her and just to the side, his hand resting on her hip, feeling smooth skin under the crisp cotton of the shirt.
Walking back into his bedroom, he dimmed the lights and opened the door to the upper deck enough for Backup to come in and out, then pulled back the covers on his bed, undressing and resting back against the pillows. He held out his hand to Veronica when she reappeared, curling his fingers around hers and pulling her onto the bed, helping her shift around to straddle him.
She smiled and leaned down to kiss him, her hands pressing against his chest, squirming her hips around until she was positioned perfectly against his hardening shaft. Sitting up, she ground against him, feeling him tense under her. Quickly unbuttoning the tuxedo shirt she was wearing, he pushed it off her shoulders, letting it fall to the floor on the side of the bed. Trailing his hands up to cup her breasts he circled her taunt nipples through the lace, before folding the lace cups of the bustier down to expose her breasts to his hands and mouth.
Releasing her breasts, he laid back as she reached behind her to loosen the bustier, letting it slip from her shoulders.
Logan: You're beautiful.
Veronica: I'm glad you think so.
Logan: I always have.
Veronica: Even when I was in pigtails and knee socks.
Logan: Don't tease me.
She laughed, leaning down to kiss him thoroughly before sitting up and shifting so she could take him into her welcoming body.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
(Saturday, Oct. 22)
Logan woke up early the next morning, taking a moment to savor the feel of Veronica's naked body against his. She was still relaxed with sleep, her eyes closed and her breathing even and deep. Logan pressed a light kiss to her forehead before slipping out from under the covers.
Exiting the bathroom he found Backup waiting patiently for him. Logan ran his hand over the silky fun on the back of the dog's head, opening the double doors to his bedroom silently and nodding for Veronica's pet to come with him. Tail wagging, Backup raced down the stairs, waiting impatiently at the patio doors to be let out.
Logan grunted and checking the time grabbed an apple and a bottle of water from the fridge before going into the garage to pull on a wetsuit quickly.
Hitting the beach with the large pitbull at his heels, he nodded to Matt.
Matt: I wasn't sure you would make it this morning.
Logan arched one eyebrow wondering just how much his neighbor could hear through their shared wall.
Logan: I'm here, but you might want to make yourself scarce tonight if you want any sleep.
Matt nodded slowly.
Matt: So you know.
Logan: It's a secret.
Matt smiled, white teeth flashing in a handsome face.
Matt: I'll pretend that you are still in the dark when I see Veronica later.
Logan smirked.
Logan: Waves look good. Should we?
Matt: We should, otherwise we both left beautiful women in bed alone for no reason.
Logan nodded in agreement and they walked into the water, surfboards at their sides.
Matt: Logan, happy birthday.
Logan: Thanks man.
A few hours later, Logan slipped back into bed with Veronica, his body chilled from the coolness of the October ocean temps.
Veronica: You're cold.
Logan: Come warm me up?
Veronica: Hmm. (She rolled over and pressed her body against his, shuddering at the contact for a different reason than usual.) I must really love you.
Logan: You must.
She smiled and arranged herself more comfortably against him.
Veronica: (yawning) Did you surf with Matt? (Logan nodded.) I really like him.
Logan: You think he's attractive.
Veronica: He is attractive.
Logan: But you love me.
Veronica: Yep.
Logan: And you only have eyes for me.
Veronica: Sure. If that's true for you, it's true for me.
Logan grinned and kissed her forehead.
Logan: I guess my birthday is over already? Can't have everything I want all the time, huh?
She yawned again and stretched, propping herself up on his chest.
Veronica: In honor of your birthday, I promise not to check out any other guys, including your very attractive neighbor who is also a military doctor, today.
Logan: Today? That's all I get.
Veronica: A birthday is only one day, Pookie. I hate to break the news to you.
Logan grinned and placed his cold hands on her butt, pulling her over top of him while she screamed at the coldness of his touch.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
At the Neptune High soccer field, the newly co-ed soccer team finished their game, losing by one. Malia was frowning at the loss, even after Luke found her in the swarm of green uniformed players and squeezed her hand.
College Scout/Gary Young: Malia Mancini?
Malia turned at the unfamiliar voice and found a man in khakis and a polo holding a clipboard.
Malia: Yes?
College Scout/Gary Young: I'm Gary Young, a scout for Duke.
Malia: (enthusiastic) Duke, east coast, Blue Devils Duke?
College Scout/Gary Young: That's the one, I take it you might be interested in hearing what I have to say?
Malia: I'm all ears!
—VM—LoVe—VM—
At the beach house, Veronica gets showered and dressed before going downstairs, a dead giveaway that something was happening, if he hadn't known already, but Logan retained his silence, wanting her to believe in her surprise.
After finishing breakfast, they moved to the living room, curling around each other on the comfortable couch.
Veronica: So, we're still on for swim lessons with Shi tomorrow, right?
Logan: Yep, but you're not leaving yet, are you?
Veronica: No, but you are soon. If I recall correctly your friends have some… (teasing) amazing… plans to celebrate your birthday today.
Logan: (sotto voice) They can't hold a candle to you.
Veronica: I hope not, but I do think you're going to have a lot of fun today.
Logan: (absently) And tonight.
Veronica: (trying to cover her alarm) Tonight?
Logan: Party at Matt Barone's.
Veronica: (drawing the word out, inwardly relieved) Right.
Logan: (arching one eyebrow) You don't want to go?
Veronica: (shrugging both with her shoulders and with her face) We can, it's just… another party you know. Nothing to be excited about.
Logan: We could stay home? Order in?
Veronica: Let's play it by ear.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
Words 5100
Just after one o'clock that afternoon, Logan's friends burst into his house, finding Logan and V watching a movie together.
Dick: Swingers? Dude, you are so money.
Harry: And he has his beautiful baby with him.
Logan tilted his head back to look at the guys as they flowed through his front door: Dick, Rams, Harry and Luke.
Logan: Have a seat gentlemen, movie's almost over.
Dick squeezed in between Logan and Veronica, then scooped Veronica up and passed her over to Logan as she sputtered her dissatisfaction.
Rams: (laughing) Baby, that was money! Tell me that wasn't money.
Logan checked her expression to see if she was seriously unhappy or just maintaining her battle lines with Dick
Logan: You OK, Baby?
Dick: Your beautiful baby, smiled. She totally smiled.
Veronica: I can't believe what an asshole you are.
Dick: Did she, or did she not smile?
Luke: She was smiling at what an asshole you are.
Dick: She was smiling at how money I am, baby.
As soon as the movie was over, Veronica stood up and stepped aside as the guys circled Logan.
Dick: Now dude, you gotta be cool.
Logan shot a questioning look at Rams.
Logan: Why wouldn't I be cool?
Dick: Eh.
Suddenly Rams had Logan in a headlock while the other three guys rushed him, locking handcuffs around his wrists behind his back. Releasing him and stepping back, Logan spun around glaring at his friends and looking askance at Veronica.
Logan: No assistance?
Veronica: I thought you might be into the handcuffs.
Logan shot her a look that promised retribution while his friends howled.
Dick: Nice. Surprising, coming from a tight ass biotch like you Ronnie. But nice.
Logan: Don't call her a bitch.
Dick: Dude, you are so whipped. You're handcuffed and still defending her.
Logan: (demanding) Take them off.
Luke: Not yet. Who's got the blindfold?
Veronica laughed at Logan's incredulous look.
Logan: Is this all necessary?
Harry: Yep. You're a nosy fuck and we wanted to surprise you.
Harry tried to put the blindfold on Logan but the birthday boy darted away.
Logan: I have no idea what the plan is for this afternoon, so let's just get on with it.
Rams: Sorry dude, we have a plan, gotta stick to it.
Logan: I'm not letting you put that thing on me. But I'll make you a deal, uncuff me and I'll blindfold myself.
Luke: Nope.
Rams: Ronnie, you want to help us out?
Veronica: Sure.
Logan glared at her as she approached him, kissing him softly then tying the long strip of black fabric around his eyes.
Veronica: Have fun!
Veronica laughed as the guys bundled Logan out of the house, leaving her the whole afternoon to get the house and everything else ready for his party.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
The guys drove Logan to the Glider Port on the cliffs above the beach, where several more of their friends were waiting for them including Keith (Karen's boyfriend and football player), Mike Newberg (musician), Andy, Hank, Matt Barone, Cole, and Dale.
They all laughed and cheered as Logan was pulled from the SUV, hanging between the four guys like a starfish, face down. Logan didn't look pleased with the situation, which just made them laugh harder.
Laying him in the grass, Rams sat down on him, pinning him down as he undid the handcuffs.
Rams: Now, you know this is all in good fun, so, you get one punch in, after that, I hit back.
Logan: Just let me up already.
Rams pulled the blindfold off and stood up, happy to see that Logan didn't appear to be angry.
Luke: Alright, now since you're being a good sport, you can pick who goes first.
Logan looked around in bewilderment. They were gathered on a cliff overlooking the ocean. The sky was a clear sunny blue, but the brisk wind made him glad for the long sleeved hoodie he had put on that morning.
Logan: Does what first?
Rams: Parasail. Or para-cliff dive? Whatever, it looks like a good time.
Logan stood and saw several instructors waiting for them. Logan opted to go first, with Rams jumping off the cliff's edge just moments after Logan and his instructor. Landing on the beach below, Logan realized that it was going to be a full day of activity, since they were expected to climb back up the cliff on belay rather than take the trail. Halfway up, Logan paused and swung out to see the view of the ocean, which never got boring.
Logan: You guys really went all out.
Rams: (chuckling) Oh, we're just getting started, dude.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
At Logan's house, Veronica went outside and moved her car to the street, along with Logan's x-terra, but parking the Mazda in Matt's garage, which was open and vacant right on time.
Matt: Holler if you need any help.
Veronica: Thanks, I may take you up on that.
Matt: Actually, I can help take Backup off your hands. I'm going for a run if you think he'd stay with me?
Veronica: I'm sure he would appreciate that. Thanks.
Malia and Kate arrived at three just as the movers were loading Logan's couch into the back of a moving truck.
The next few hours were a blur of activity as most of the first floor furnishings were packed off, and a whole new set of furniture was delivered along with decorations, cards, gambling chips, a roulette wheel, and four racks of 1920s costumes.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
By the time the large 20 by 40 foot tent had been constructed on the beach behind Logan's and the temporary flooring installed there and in Logan's garage (which had also gotten temporary fabric wall treatments), Logan and his friends were off to part two of their adventure.
Logan: (good natured complaining) Are we going to eat soon?
Harry: Trust me dude, you don't want to eat before this next stop. But we've got lunch waiting for us after.
Logan frowned, twisting his head around as if he could discern where they were with the changes, but since he had agreed to put the blindfold back on (but not the cuffs) he had no idea where they were, only that they'd been driving 15 minutes.
Stepping down from the SUV once it was parked, Logan heard a booming voice welcome them to Montgomery Field.
Logan: What are we…
Dick: Skydiving!
Logan: You're serious.
Rams: It's your call dude, a few of us are sitting this one out.
Matt Barone, Harry and Cole all raised their hands and made sheepish looks.
Dick: Pussys.
Logan: Alright. Let's go.
Jump Instructor: Follow me, we have some instruction and some waivers for you to sign then we'll get you up.
Entering the hangar, Logan saw a tall blonde man already seated one of several desks that wouldn't look out of place at their school.
Dick: Dude, meet your special guest!
The man stood and turned and Logan grinned.
Logan: Laird Hamilton.
Laird Hamilton: Happy birthday Logan.
Logan: You're jumping with us?
Laird Hamilton: Wouldn't miss it.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
Wallace showed up just as Kate and Maila were packing up several of the dresses to deliver to the other girls.
Malia: Your wingman is here, so I'm out!
Veronica: Thanks for your help Malia, and congratulations on the college scout.
Malia: Thanks, tonight I'm celebrating!
Veronica walked inside with Wallace, who was shocked at the transformation. The garage had become a warm, 1920s looking sitting room, with fussy fabrics and delicate chairs, chaises, and tables making for a few seating areas.
The main floor of the house had been emptied, with a few more era appropriate seating areas set up around the edges of the room while the only piece of real large furniture was the poker table, which now had six chairs circling it.
Veronica: The band will set up against the stairs, and the tent outside has more poker tables as well as blackjack, roulette, and even craps. There will be one bar in the tent, and another in here, food will be on the kitchen counter.
Wallace made a tisking sound that drew a concerned look from Veronica.
Wallace: No fancy waiters circulating? I thought this was going to be a fancy party.
Veronica: Shut up.
Veronica heard Kate's voice from the patio and went outside, wondering why the redhead was still there.
Kate: I know, I'm looking forward to meeting you too. Let me look at the schedule and see when I can come. Bye Grandma.
She hung up and looked at Veronica with clear eyes.
Hey. You're busy, but can I book some time on Monday to talk to you?
I'm not too busy, I have helpers everywhere.
Kate: No, it can wait. I promise. (smiling brightly) So I can set up the coat racks in the laundry room, I think that is the best spot for it unless you want to convert the upstairs guest bedroom…
Another truck pulled up outside and the driver and his staff looked at the girls for instructions.
Veronica: What do you have?
Delivery guy: Plants.
Veronica frowned.
Veronica: Plants?
Delivery guy: Says here they were ordered by Lynn Echolls. She provided this floor plan.
He handed the floor plan to Veronica who smiled as she read it.
Wallace: Lynn really went all out.
Veronica: Yeah. OK, Wallace can you follow Lynn's map while Kate and I go upstairs?
Wallace: That's why I'm here.
Hank: (a loud teasing voice sounded from around the side of the house) Well I'm here to rescue damsels in distress and hopefully get the girl.
Veronica: Hey Hank. Andy.
Hank: And we brought Meg.
Andy: Her car broke down. We got it started again.
Hank: We?
Andy: OK, you.
Hank approached Veronica and smiled at her widely.
I am here to serve. Tell me what my lady doth require.
Kate: Honestly Hank, I'm going to punch you if Logan doesn't. Enough with the over the top flirting.
Hank: That hurts me Kate. And it just means I need to up my game. By the way, Veronica. Last I saw Logan he had successfully scarffed down a California burrito after jumping out of a plane, so he's having a blast.
Veronica: With Laird Hamilton?
Andy: Yep. They're going surfing next.
Wallace: You two skipped out on surfing with a legend?
Andy: Rams said we had to earn our invites.
Wallace: Bummer.
Hank: (sly look at Veronica) There are upsides.
Veronica: Did you guys lose Meg?
Hank: Nah, she's out front, calling AAA.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
In Chicago, Keith and Alicia were enjoying the architectural tour Veronica had found and recommended for them.
Alicia: What do you think the kids are up to?
Keith: On a Saturday afternoon? My money is on napping or couch surfing.
Alicia: Yeah.
Keith: We should call home tonight.
Alicia: You honestly think either of the older kids are going to want to talk to us on a Saturday night when we're out of town?
Keith: No, but that's why we should call. Keep them on their toes.
Alicia laughed.
—VM—LoVe—VM—
Veronica continued to run around, making sure everything got checked off the list, along with the help of her and Logan's friends.
Tasking Hank and Andy to figure out the kegs, she and Meg went upstairs to look at the dresses that they had each ordered for the evening. Wallace popped his head into Logan's bedroom with a hand over his eyes.
Wallace: Everyone descent in here?
Veronica: Yep.
Wallace: You need me to do anything else? Otherwise I'll take Backup back to our house and get Daryl off to his sleep over.
Veronica: I think I'm good, all that's left is the band and the food.
Meg: And to get yourself ready.
Veronica: And that. Which I should start in about… a half hour.
Wallace: Then I'm out, and V… Logan's going to love it.
Veronica smiled.
Veronica: He better.
-words 7243
AN I saw something this weekend that said that the series did not have the planned ending… so does anyone know how Rob Thomas planned to end the series?
I know I've mentioned videos and video makers before… but I thought I'd throw a new song out there… I just became aware of a song from the UK- Wildest Moments that is just perfect for Logan/Veronica… if anyone out there is a video maker…
I wrote the last 1k words to this chapter pretty quickly to try to get it up since you've all been waiting. Hope you enjoy the first part of Logan's birthday.