Secrets of Life Chapter 35, an one tree hill fanfic

As usual, thank you all so much for the reviews! This next chapter was another one of my absolute favorites to write. I hope you guys enjoy it and will continue to review. Your comments always make my day. The secret featured is from Ellie and Peyton in S3. The songs in this chapter are "Halo" and "Feel This" by Bethany Joy Galeotti.

Secret No. 35: Every song has to end sometime. But that's no reason not to enjoy the music.

"Lucas Eugene Scott, you no longer have any right to complain about me," Brooke declared as she checked her watch. "We have to leave in ten minutes if we're going to make it to Tree Hill on time."

Tonight was the Friends With Benefit Concert, and Brooke didn't want to be late. Both her sisters had left for Tree Hill earlier that day and were probably going insane as they prepared for the show. Not to mention their mom who tended to be a bit more irritable and hormonal most of the time now. Poor Larry would need reinforcements since Karen and Deb would be busy themselves.

"I'm sorry," Lucas replied from the bathroom. "That study session ran longer than I thought it would."

"Well, hurry up, Broody," she called. "Or I'll be forced to drive and break several speed limits on the way there while I'm at it."

Lucas mumbled something unintelligible under his breath that she decided to ignore. Instead, Brooke took a seat at his desk. She leaned her arm on the surface causing a stack of papers nearby to fall to the ground in disarray. There was also a soft thump that sounded.

"Oh crap," she mumbled. She didn't know what the papers were, but they were probably important.

"What happened?" Lucas questioned.

"Nothing. Everything's fine. Keep getting ready," she replied while scrambling on the ground to clean up the mess. She picked up a few papers and put them back on the desk. She headed over to another small pile. But when she went to pick them up, she noticed that a thick stack was actually bound together.

So that's what made the noise, she concluded. Brooke placed the other papers on the desk before grabbing the bound booklet, as it appeared to be. She was just about to put it with the rest of the pile when she saw something that caught her eye.

"What?" she whispered while reading it.

An Unkindness of Ravens by Lucas Scott. She flipped through a few pages and caught sentences here and there. It was a book. Brooke flipped back to the front page. By Lucas Scott? Did he actually write this? He didn't mention that he was doing something like this. She turned to the front page and read the first few sentences when she heard the bathroom door opening. Brooke quickly shot up and placed the book on his desk. Afterward, she piled the rest of the papers on top of it and tried to appear normal.

"So, how do I look?" Lucas questioned while stepping into the room. "Presentable enough?"

She took in his light blue button-down shirt and dark jeans appreciatively. "You look very handsome," Brooke assured him.

Lucas smiled. "Good." He walked over and gave her a quick kiss. "Are you okay?"

"Yeah, why?" she asked warily.

Lucas shrugged. "I don't know. You just seem a little jumpy. That's all."

"Oh. No, I'm fine," she said dismissively.

"You're just anxious to get going already, aren't you?" he concluded.

"Yeah, that's it," Brooke agreed. "I don't want to miss anything."

"We won't. I promise to get us there on time," Lucas vowed. "Now let's go, Pretty Girl." She let him take her by the hand and lead the way. Once they were in the car and driving to Tree Hill, Brooke decided to just let what happened a few minutes prior go. The important thing tonight was the show and to support Jenny and her sisters. She would have plenty of time to dwell on her little discovery later.

"Haley!" Peyton exclaimed as she entered the dressing room. "Wow, you look so great."

Haley was wearing a ribbed, halter cardigan vest with large grey and black horizontal stripes along with form-fitting black pants and heels. Her long, dark locks were down and wavy. She also wore a few silver bangle bracelets and dangly earrings. Overall, Haley had the rock star look down.

"Thanks," Haley meekly replied.

"What's up, Peyton? Did you need Chris Keller to sign some autographs for his fans?" Chris questioned as he fixed his hair in the mirror.

Peyton rolled her eyes. "No. I came to check on my sister. How are you holding up?"

Haley bit her bottom lip. "Um…good. I'm kind of nervous."

"That's normal. You're going to do great," Peyton encouraged.

"Especially since she's going on before me. I wouldn't want her to be intimidated by my performance and chicken out," Chris added.

Haley shook her head at him before turning back to Peyton. "I actually need some help with my eye shadow. I was trying to go for the smokey look. I figure that's your area of expertise."

Peyton smiled. "Yeah, it is. Quit hogging the mirror, Keller." She pushed him out of the way and pulled Haley in front of it.

"Hey, watch the shirt, blondie," Chris commented.

"Okay, close your eyes," Peyton instructed Haley. "I'm sorry that I forced you and Chris to share a dressing room."

"I think you mean closet," Chris corrected while pointing to a broom and some cleaning supplies. "They had to bring the table and mirror in here."

"I know. I tried to get you guys something better, but, unfortunately, the bigger acts get first priority."

"It's okay. I don't mind," Haley said. She felt honored to simply be around all of the amazing artists that would be performing. Granted, she felt out of place. She was nothing compared to them. But it was still awesome to be a part of the show. If only she could get her damn nerves under control. Then everything would be perfect.

"Speak for yourself, James," Chris cut in. "The Keller gets claustrophobic."

The pair just ignored him as Peyton did Haley's makeup. "Where did you get these flowers from?" There was a bouquet of small purple flowers lying on the table.

Haley smiled. "Nathan gave them to me for good luck."

"That was nice of him," Peyton commented. "Now, how does this look?"

Haley opened her eyes and glanced in the mirror. "Great. Thank you."

"Sure." A knock then sounded on the door. "Come in."

"Hey, Peyton, we need you out front," the stage manager said. "The place is completely packed."

"Okay, I'll be right there."

"When she says packed, that means…?" Haley trailed off.

"It means that there isn't an empty seat in the house," Chris answered.

"Don't worry," Peyton soothed. She could see Haley starting to get anxious again. She gave her arm a comforting squeeze. "You'll be fine."

"Hey, James, are you okay?" Chris questioned after Peyton had left. "You don't look so good."

Haley took a seat in the corner and put her head in her hands. "I don't feel too good either."

"Wow, look at this place," Lucas stated.

"I know. There are so many people. Practically the whole town is here," Brooke pointed out.

"Let's go see if we can find anyone we know."

Brooke took Lucas' hand as he led her through the large crowd. After a few minutes, they finally spotted Karen.

"Hey, Mom," Lucas greeted loudly. There is no way anyone could talk at a normal voice and be heard with this many people in the room.

"Hi, honey," Karen replied while giving him a hug. "There are so many people here. Isn't it great?"

"Yeah, you all did an amazing job," Brooke complimented.

Karen also gave her a hug. "Thank you, Brooke."

"Do you know where everyone else is?" Lucas inquired.

"Well, Peyton is around making sure the stage and performers are ready. Lydia was making sure everything was all set at the bar and checking wristbands, and Deb was in charge of seating," Karen explained. "We've all been running around like crazy. I don't even know where Keith and Larry ran off to."

"Have you seen Nathan?" Brooke questioned.

"Yeah. The last time I saw him he and a couple of friends were near the front of the stage."

"Why don't you go with Nathan and the others," Lucas suggested. "I'm going to help my mom for a little bit. I'll meet up with you again."

Brooke nodded. She didn't want Lucas to leave her, but Karen obviously had her hands full. "Okay." Brooke made her way towards the front of the stage. It was hard maneuvering through so many people. Eventually, she finally spotted Nathan. Tony and Millie were also with him.

"Hey, guys," she shouted in greeting.

"Hey, Brooke," Mille replied. "You look so pretty."

Brooke smiled. "Thank you. You, too. How long have you all been here?"

"We got here an hour early," Nathan answered. "Where's Luke?"

"Helping Karen. Have you guys seen Peyton at all?"

"She came by a few minutes ago," Tony responded. "She's really busy, though."

The foursome settled into casual conversation while they waited for the show to begin. Brooke glanced over the crowd every once in a while to see if Lucas was around.

Nathan checked his watch. "It's going to start soon."

Brooke whipped out her cell phone and dialed her boyfriend's number.

"Relax, Pretty Girl," a voice spoke up behind her. "I'm right here."

Brooke turned around to see Lucas with two drinks in his hands. "Finally."

"Sorry. My mom needed a lot of help."

Brooke took her diet soda from him. "That's okay. Just as long as you're here now."

"Hey, guys," Lucas said as he bumped fists with Nathan and Tony. He gave Millie a quick hug. A second later, the lights on the stage flashed on and off a few times to get everyone's attention.

"It's starting now," Nathan murmured.

Sure enough, Peyton walked onto the stage. Brooke smiled when she saw her outfit. It was a black, button-down dress with a gold-chained belt. Peyton also wore knee-high black boots to complete the ensemble. It was one of Brooke's designs that she let her sister borrow for the night.

As Peyton walked over to the microphone, the crowd started to fall silent. "Hey, everyone, my name is Peyton James, and I'd like to welcome you all to the Friends With Benefit concert tonight. As I'm sure you all know, leukemia is one of the most serious illnesses young children are facing today. That is why all of the proceeds of the album we created—which features the artists that will be performing tonight—will be donated to the National Children's Leukemia Foundation."

Applause filled the room. Peyton waited another moment before continuing. "The money from the ticket sales, however, will be going to a very special little girl who is dear to my heart. She was diagnosed last year with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia, also known as ALL," Peyton stated. "She's been fighting a difficult battle for the last seven months that has been challenging both physically and mentally. But despite that, she is one tough and inspiring little girl. So please help me to welcome to the stage my close friends and inspiration for this benefit concert, Jenny Jagielski and her father Jake."

The applause was even louder this time as Jake and Jenny made their way onto the stage. Jenny was in Jake's arms. Nathan and Lucas whistled as Brooke cheered them on. Brooke's smile was dazzling when Jenny gave her a little wave.

When the crowd finally settled down, Peyton spoke again. "Now, Jenny, can you tell everyone how old you are?"

"Five," she said into the microphone and held up her hand. A few "aws" could be heard in the audience.

"Now, you've been through a lot. How do you feel most of the time?"

"Tired and sick. My tummy hurts a lot." Murmurings could be heard amongst the crowd.

"And what is the one thing you want most in the world?" Peyton asked.

"To feel better…and maybe a puppy."

The crowd laughed a bit at her comment, but it wasn't hard to see that many were affected by her situation. Brooke dabbed at her watering eyes. Others around her appeared to be doing the same thing as they heard Jenny speak.

"And who is the person you love most in the word?"

"My daddy," Jenny said as she hugged Jake. She then added, "And you, Mommy."

An even louder chorus of "aws" was heard as Peyton hugged her, too.

"Jake, would you like to say a few words?" Peyton said while handing him the microphone.

"I just want to thank everyone for being here tonight," Jake proclaimed. "It's been a hard seven months—definitely the toughest of our lives. Jenny is my world, and it means a lot that people are willing to help support her and our family. And I'm sure that the other parents with sick children in this room tonight can agree. Every little bit really does help."

More people clapped afterward. Jake handed the microphone back to Peyton. "Thank you, Jake and Jenny, for having the courage to stand up here tonight. You truly are an inspiration to us all. And before we begin the show, I would just like to give a special thanks to Pete Wentz from Fall Out Boy for helping to get all of these wonderful artists to come together for a good cause."

Cheering and screaming rang out as Pete walked onto the stage. Brooke smiled as she watched him hug Peyton tightly. I guess some things haven't changed, she mused.

A smile was plastered on Jake's face the whole time, but Brooke was sure it was forced. He wasn't exactly Pete's biggest fan considering what happened the last time Pete was in town for a show three years ago.

Pete took the microphone from Peyton. "What's up, Tree Hill? If you look around you, there are small cans and boxes on the tables and bar if you would like to make a donation to Jenny's recovery. The guys and I already slipped a few hundreds into one of them, but we all know it's going to take a lot more than that. It doesn't matter how much you put in there. Like Jake said, every little bit helps."

"Thank you, Pete," Peyton replied into the microphone that he handed back to her. "And now, without further ado, enjoy the show!"

"Woooo!" Brooke cheered as The Wreckers just finished their last song.

"This is so amazing!" Millie exclaimed.

Tony nodded in agreement. "Awesome."

"When is Haley supposed to be performing?" Lucas questioned.

"I think she's after this next band coming up," Nathan answered.

"She is," Peyton confirmed as she joined the group with Jenny in her arms. "And it's Jake who is next, by the way."

"Oh my God, Peyton, I am so proud of you!" Brooke proclaimed while hugging her and a giggling Jenny. "You really outdid yourself tonight."

"Oh, it's nothing," she dismissed.

Lucas shook his head. "No, this is really something, Peyton. We're all just completely blown away by this." Nathan, Tony, and Millie all nodded in agreement.

"Well, thanks," Peyton replied with a smile. "And I just wanted to come out here and say hi to you guys while I had a minute to breathe."

"How are you doing, Munchkin?" Lucas questioned Jenny.

"Good. This is fun!" she proclaimed.

"So, Peyton, I noticed Pete was eying you on stage," Brooke teased.

Peyton rolled her eyes. "Don't go there."

"I don't know. I think he might still have a little something for you," she continued, causing the others to laugh.

"He's married! In fact, his wife is here."

"So? Ashlee looked pretty pissed herself by the display."

"Okay, we are no longer talking about this right now."

Brooke laughed. She loved getting her sister all riled up.

"Yo, blondie! Blondie!" a voice called behind them. They all looked to see Chris walking towards them.

"God help me," Peyton muttered. "What is it now, Keller?"

"I think one of you might want to come backstage and talk to Haley. She's pretty much freaking out and having a panic attack right now. She says she doesn't want to perform."

"What?!" Nathan and Peyton both exclaimed.

"Here, can you take Jenny?" Peyton asked Brooke. "I have to go sort this out."

"Sure," Brooke said as she took the little girl in her arms. "She's going to have a lot of fun with Aunt Brooke. Right, Munchkin?"

"Okay," Jenny replied. "But is Mommy coming back?"

"I'll be back as soon as I can," Peyton promised.

"I'm coming with you," Nathan announced before the trio was off, rushing to get backstage.

Haley hugged her knees to her chest as she tried to slow down her breathing. She'd been nervous all night. Like Peyton said, that was normal. But it all changed as soon as she stepped out of her dressing room and snuck a peek at the crowd. "Packed" was an understatement. She'd never sung in front of a crowd that large.

I knew this was a bad idea, she thought. Her chest tightened; it felt like she could barely breathe. Chris had tried to reason with her, but it didn't help. She didn't want to perform. She couldn't. She was beyond out of her league.

A few moments later, the door opened.

"Haley?" Nathan called.

"Where are you?" Peyton asked.

"Under here," she answered in a soft voice. The pair, along with Chris, crouched to see her sitting under the dressing table.

"Hales," Nathan murmured.

Haley shook her head. "I can't do it. I can't. I'm not cut out for this."

"Yes, you are."

"Nathan, I'm not a rock star or whatever. I'm just…I'm just a nerd! I'm Tutor Girl!" she exclaimed.

"Can you guys give us a moment alone?" Nathan requested.

Peyton hesitated for a moment before agreeing. If Haley would listen to anyone, she was sure it was Nathan. "Okay. Come on, Keller."

Once they were gone, Nathan turned back to her. "First of all, come out of there."

He held his hand out for her, which she took. Nathan helped her to her feet.

"Nathan, I can't…" Haley trailed of in a strained voice.

"You don't even see yourself clearly, do you?" he replied. His hand gently caressed her cheek while the other rubbed her arm soothingly. He then turned her around so she was facing herself in the mirror. "You're beautiful, Hales. You completely look the part. And we both know that you've got the talent to get out there and perform. You just have to stop holding yourself back."

"Nathan—"

"You do, Hales," he interrupted. "I know you like control, but in this case, you've got to get up there and just trust yourself. Just do it and try to have some fun."

Haley closed her eyes as she tried to process Nathan's words. "But…but what if I suck?"

"You won't. I would've never given Peyton your song if I didn't have faith in you. And Peyton would've never even asked you to be a part of this if she didn't have faith in you. So don't focus on any of that other negative stuff. Get out there, perform, and show them what you're really made of."

"There are a lot of people," she added.

Nathan turned her around so she was facing him, once again. "Then don't focus on anyone else. 'Halo' is our song, right? Sing it to me. I'll be right there in the front row. And if you get nervous, just keep your eyes on me."

Haley met his gaze and felt goose bumps form on her skin. The amount of love and support in his stare took her breath away. Haley leaned up on her toes and kissed him lovingly.

A soft knock sounded as the door opened. Peyton stuck her head in. "I hate to interrupt, but I need to know what you want to do, Haley. Jake is almost finished, and you're up next."

"I'm coming," Haley replied.

Peyton smiled in relief. "Good. One more minute and then I need you heading to the stage."

Haley nodded. "Okay. I'll be right there." As much as she wanted to run away and not do this, Haley knew that she couldn't. If she didn't get on that stage now and face her fear, then she never would. It would just keep getting worse. Besides, everyone was counting on her. She couldn't let them down.

"That's my girl," Nathan declared proudly once Peyton had left.

"God, I hope I survive this," she mumbled.

"Baby, you can do this," Nathan encouraged. "Once you get through the first song, I guarantee that the others will be a piece of cake."

Haley nodded silently as Nathan kissed her forehead. Afterward, she followed him out of the dressing room towards the stage. The moment to perform was finally upon her.

"How's Haley?" Brooke questioned as soon as Nathan rejoined the group.

"I think she'll be alright now."

"Is she still going to perform?" Lucas inquired.

"Yeah. She's getting ready right now."

"Auntie Haley is next?" Jenny asked Brooke.

"She is," Brooke confirmed.

"Yay! Daddy was really good."

"He was," Brooke agreed. Jake had been amazing. It had melted her heart whenever Jake would look at Jenny as he sang. Now if only Brooke could feel as confident about Haley. She hoped her sister would come out of her shell and blow everyone away tonight. She had the talent. Now it was time to really use it.

A moment later, Haley walked on stage. Brooke smiled proudly at how awesome she looked. She'd also helped Haley pick out her outfit for tonight.

"Did you want me to take Jenny?" Lucas questioned. "Your arm is probably hurting."

"Sure," Brooke replied. "Thanks." She handed Jenny over to Lucas. Once she was securely in his arms, Brooke returned her attention to the stage. Haley was at the microphone as the music began. Brooke could tell that her little sister was tense. But when she opened her mouth and started to sing, she was relieved to hear Haley's strong voice come through.

I never promised you a ray of light
I never promised there'd be sunshine everyday
I'll give you everything I have, the good, the bad
Why do you put me on a pedestal?
I'm so up high that I can't see the ground below
So help me down you've got it wrong, I don't belong there

Brooke looked over at Nathan. He seemed to be the one that Haley was singing to. She grinned when she saw the proud look on his face. She didn't know what he said to her sister, but it seemed to have worked.

One thing is clear
I wear a halo
I wear a halo when you look at me
But standing from here, you wouldn't say so
You wouldn't say so, if you were me
And I, I just wanna love you
Oh oh I, I just wanna love you

At this point, Haley started to look a little bit more at the crowd. Brooke glanced around and noticed people nodding their heads and getting pulled into the song.

I always said that I would make mistakes
I'm only human, and that's my saving grace
I fall as hard as I try
So don't be blinded
See me as I really am
I have flaws and sometimes I even sin
So pull me from that pedestal
I don't belong there

"She's doing amazing!" Lucas exclaimed.

"I had no idea she could sing like this," Tony added.

"I don't know what you said, but it worked," Brooke called to Nathan. He laughed before looking back at Haley. She was up there killing it now. She completely had the crowd as everyone was singing along with the chorus.

Why you think that you know me
But in your eyes
I am something above you
It's only in your mind
Only in your mind
I wear a
I wear a
I wear a halo

Hey, a-ha-ha halo

When the song finally ended, everyone was screaming and cheering. But it wasn't long before her next song started. And much to Brooke's relief and delight, her sister seemed more than ready to rock the place again.

Peyton stood off to the side backstage watching as Haley started her second song. Thank God for Nathan, kept repeating over in her head when she sang "Halo." Haley had been so freaked out that Peyton wasn't sure if she would've even been able to sing once she got up there. But she did. Now she looked like a total natural as she performed "Feel This."

It's gotta be this one
Don't have to fake it
You know I can take it
What if I told you
Your tears
Haven't been ignored
And everything
That is taken
Can be restored

"How's Haley doing?"

Peyton looked over to see Jake next to her. "Great."

"Good," he commented with a smile. "Where's Jenny?"

"With Brooke. You were amazing, too," Peyton complimented.

He grinned shyly. "Thanks."

Feel this
Can you feel this
My heart beating
Out of my chest
Feel this
Can you feel this
Salvation
Under my breath

"By the way, have I told you how much I love you tonight?" Jake questioned.

Peyton quirked an eyebrow. "I don't think so."

"Well, I do," he stated before capturing her lips in his. The kiss was soft but passionate.

"Wow. What was that for?" she inquired, breathless.

"For putting all of this together for Jenny and me. You always create these awesome shows, but you really went above and beyond with this one. You don't know how much this means to us, Peyton. Thank you."

Peyton smiled while stroking his cheek. "Anything for my family."

Jake gave her another loving kiss before pulling away. "But did you have to get Pete to help you?"

Peyton laughed and rolled her eyes. "It was three years ago, Jake. Please do not tell me you're still jealous? Pete and I are just friends. Plus, Fall Out Boy has gotten super famous and have all of these connections."

"I'm not jealous," he stated defensively. "I just noticed him looking at you a few times tonight."

"He's married!"

"I know. That's probably why I caught Ashlee chewing him out backstage."

Peyton brought his face down to meet hers. "You have nothing to worry about. I kind of have a thing for sexy musicians named Jake."

It's gotta be
Disguised
Soul and script
Caught in the mirror
What if I told you
That in a sense is yours
And beauty you have now
Is brighter than before
Before

"Well, when you put it that way…" he said. Peyton's laugh quickly turned into a moan as his mouth covered hers, once again.

Feel this
Can you feel this
My heart beating
Out of my chest
Feel this
Can you feel this
Salvation
Under my breath

Let go, let go, let go
Let go, let go, let go
Let go

Feel this
Can you feel this
My heart beating
Out of my chest
Feel this
Can you feel this
Salvation
Under my breath

"Nathan, where are we going?"

"It's a surprise."

"Babe, I've had enough excitement for one night. I don't think I can take much more," Haley joked.

"Trust me. You're going to like this one."

Haley stared at him curiously. It was close to two o'clock in the morning. The show had just ended an hour earlier, and the pair was now in Nathan's car on the way to some unknown location.

"You know, I'm surprised you're not tired after everything that happened tonight," Nathan commented.

"I couldn't sleep right now if I tried," she stated.

Being on stage singing in front of all of those people was probably the biggest high she'd ever felt. Her heart had still been racing even after she'd finished her performance. And if that wasn't cool enough, all of the other artists had started coming up to her and saying how great she did. Haley had nearly fainted when Gavin DeGraw said he liked her sound. One of the record company guys there even said they'd be keeping an eye on her in the future. It all felt so surreal. She had to pinch herself to make sure she wasn't dreaming.

"Well, we're almost there," Nathan said.

Haley looked out the window and recognized the scenery. "Nathan, we're heading towards the beach."

"I know."

It was a few minutes later that they pulled up in front of Nathan's family's beach house. It still looked the same as it did the last time she'd been there.

"Why are we here?" Haley questioned. She didn't have the best of memories associated with this place.

"Well, I wanted to take you to the beach, since I know how much you love the ocean. But seeing as though it's still winter and cold out, I figured we should come here. So we've got the view of the ocean without actually having to freeze to death," he explained.

"But, Nathan, the last time—"

"Things are different now, Hales. There's no need to be stuck in the past." He kissed her cheek before getting out of the car. Haley followed suit as they made their way towards the house. Once inside, Nathan turned on the lights and the fireplace.

"Did you want something to drink?" he offered.

"Um…water would be good."

Nathan went into the kitchen and grabbed two bottled waters. Meanwhile, Haley sat down in front of the fireplace to warm up. Nathan took a seat next to her and handed her the drink.

"Thanks."

"So, how do you feel after being a huge hit at your first show?" Nathan teased.

Haley blushed. "It feels great, actually."

Nathan smirked. "I told you."

"Shut up," she giggled before smacking his arm.

He caught her hand and pulled her towards him. Haley snuggled into his embrace. "We were all so proud of you, you know that?"

"Yeah. You all told me about a hundred times," she joked. Brooke, Peyton, their mom, and everyone else couldn't stop gushing over how well she did. It really made Haley happy that she hadn't disappointed them—or herself. "But, honestly, I wouldn't have been able get up there if you hadn't talked to me."

"I'm used to the pre-game pep talks," he kidded.

Haley grinned. "I can tell. Anyway, you made all the difference." Nathan gave her an affectionate squeeze as a comfortable silence fell upon them. They sat watching the fire and listening to the ocean outside completely at ease.

"What are you thinking?" Nathan asked softly after a few minutes.

"I was just thinking about how far we've come. You know, since the last time we were here."

"Really?"

She nodded. "Yeah. And…I was also wondering when you're going to kiss me already," she teased while meeting his gaze.

Nathan smirked before guiding her mouth to his. The kiss started off slow but quickly gained momentum. Haley leaned back onto the floor while bringing Nathan with her. It was much more comfortable and allowed her to be warmed up further from the fire. Although, with the way Nathan was kissing her neck at the moment, he was heating her up all on his own. Haley's mind soon became hazy, too, as Nathan's lips went back to caressing hers.

But there was one thought that would not leave her mind. It was something that she'd felt building inside of her ever since they'd gotten back together. Each day it got stronger. Now, in this moment, she felt as if she might explode without saying it.

"Nathan," she whispered into his mouth.

He continued to kiss her while his hands stroked her curves. "Hmm?"

"I want to—" her words turned into an abrupt gasp as his hands met the sensitive, bare skin of her stomach under her shirt.

"You want to what?" he huskily replied.

He nipped at her neck again, causing her to almost completely lose herself in him. Luckily, a small, coherent part of her managed to hold on. "I want to marry you," she finally declared.

Nathan stopped dead in his tracks before meeting her gaze. He looked completely shocked. "What?"

"I want to marry you," she repeated. "I love you."

"Haley, you can't…you're not…a-are you serious?" he stammered.

She bit her lip nervously. "Yes, I am."

Nathan quickly sat up and ran a hand through his hair. Haley followed suit. She placed her hand on his face and forced him to look at her.

"Can you please tell me what you're thinking right now?"

"Why?"

"Why what?"

"Why are you asking me this now?" he questioned. "I mean, you don't have to prove anything, Hales, just because we're here. Yeah, it kind of feels like déjà vu but—"

"Nathan," she interrupted. "I didn't say that to make up for last time or anything. I meant it."

"I'm just…whoa," he sighed, overwhelmed.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to catch you off guard," she apologized. "It's just something that I've been thinking about for a long time and kind of found the courage to say now."

"How long has it been on your mind?"

"Even before we got back together. Although, lately, it seems like it's all I can think about," she explained.

"Hales, you've had a really long and exciting night. It's okay if you…"

"Nathan, that's not it. I'm serious," Haley stated while looking him in the eye. "I want to marry you. I'm ready."

"How do you know?" he questioned. "What makes this time different from the last?"

"Because I feel it," she answered. When she saw that he still looked confused, Haley continued, "You told me tonight that I just have to let go and trust myself. Well, that's what I'm doing. Marriage is a huge commitment. It can be difficult and scary, but I know in my heart that whatever happens we'll get through it. And when I think about Jenny and all of those other kids I was performing for tonight, it just makes you realize how short and unpredictable life is."

"Hales…"

"Nathan, I know what it's like to be with you, and I know what it's like to be apart from you…and I'd rather be with you. I don't want us to waste anymore time," she explained. "I love you, and I want more than anything to be your wife."

Haley anxiously bit her lip when Nathan was silent for a couple of minutes. "Haley," he finally stated. "You can't just ask me to marry you."

"Why not?" she whispered hesitantly. She would give anything to know what was running through his mind right now.

"Because I was the one who was supposed to ask you," he finally declared with a smile.

Haley released the breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding. She then threw her arms around him and kissed him fiercely.

"Wait…" she mumbled against his lips before leaning back to look at him. "Is that a yes?" she questioned hopefully.

Nathan smiled. "Yes."

"Thank God!" she exclaimed. Afterward, she crashed her lips back onto his.

"Where's my ring?" Nathan teased without breaking the kiss.

"Where's mine?" she kidded back.

"In my dorm room. I wish I had it with me."

"You still have it?" Haley questioned in surprise.

Nathan gave her one more kiss before pulling away. "Of course I do. I was hoping you'd come back to me someday."

"Well…um…we could use this for now," Haley suggested as she showed him the chain around her neck that held her promise ring.

"I was wondering when you were going to start wearing it again."

"I figured you should be the one to put it back on—when you were ready," she added.

Nathan smiled as he undid the chain and slid the ring off. He then gently took her left hand and delicately returned the ring to its rightful place on her finger.