AN: Hey everyone, thank you all for the reviews last chapter. I'm glad you're all happy for Naley. I just wanted to comment on last night's episode. So if you haven't watched it yet, then don't read what I'm about to say. I thought that the overall episode kinda sucked. It felt more like a finale for the series rather than the season. And even if it was a series finale, I think it was still horrible. There were some things I liked. My favorite scene was when Nathan told Haley he'd been called up by the Bobcats. I always wanted him above everyone else to achieve his dream. Like Haley, I was really proud of him. And I agree with Nathan, she looked gorgeous in the green dress. I loved that Whitey and Karen were brought back for the episode! I miss them! The scene between Dan and Whitey was so emotional and raw. I thought that it was very well-written and acted. And go Brulian! I love them!

The things I didn't like was the fact that there was no goodbye for Leyton. There wasn't even a mention of them leaving Tree Hill for an extended period of time. I might not like them together, but I do like Lucas and Peyton's relationships with the other characters. I love Laley, the old Pathan friendship, and the brotherly scenes between Lucas and Nathan. You'd think Lucas and Nathan would have a moment to talk about the baby and Nathan making it into the NBA. I felt that the core 5 deserved better than that. They're all so separated from each other now. And while I thought the Leyton baby was absolutely adorable, I don't like the name "Sawyer" for a girl at all. I thought that they'd name her "Anna Elizabeth" or something like that. The name felt like a rip-off of what Naley did. Also, did anyone notice Lucas playing with the baby on the couch? She's an infant and was premature at that. She would not be able to lift her head up like that for at least several more months.

Another thing I noticed that bothered me, mostly because it felt like the last of the original OTH had been chipped away, was that Nathan's jersey number was still "12." I thought that he would've been able to go back to the famous "23" when he changed leagues. I miss the "23" and want them to bring it back. Also, I thought Nathan getting into the NBA was totally downplayed throughout the episode. I mean, that's been his dream forever. Naley, especially Haley, barely got any scenes. They should've gotten the screen time Mouth/Millie and Chase/Mia got. They're side characters and should only be used to prop the core 5. If they're not doing that, then cut them out.

Overall, I just thought the episode felt like a dream. Everyone was happy, and everything turned out perfect. It was too perfect. It felt like Stepford or something. It's not like I want anything really awful to happen, but there are always obstacles that face us. I thought the writers could've given us some type of cliffhanger. I just hope to God that S7 is better written than S6. I think most of this season was kind of a dud with a few exceptions. Where are the writers from S3? Bring them back! Lol! We seriously need more Naley and Haley, in particular, scenes and just genuine, honest-to-goodness drama. No more pyschos, wacky illnesses, car wrecks, third-party storylines for Naley, etc. So that's about it. Sorry for my rant. I needed to vent. Lol! But I hope that you guys will review this next chapter. I'd really like to know what you guys thought about the episode last night, too.

Secret No. 36: The journey is the destination.

"How does this fit? Better?" Brooke questioned Solaris. She'd altered the clothes and made changes to make sure that they looked perfect on the models. This was now their second fitting.

"So this one is complete?" Millie asked.

Brooke nodded. "Yes."

Millie wrote it down on her clipboard before going to get the other girls. Brooke had been so stressed lately with everything for the show. She needed help and thought about asking her sisters. But they'd been really busy themselves lately. Luckily, Millie offered to step in. She was very organized and, to Brooke's surprise, knew a lot about fashion. Needless to say, the girl was an absolute godsend.

"Wow, Cheery, this all looks amazing."

Brooke smiled at Lucas' compliment. "Thanks, Broody."

"Is there anything else you need me to do real quick? Because I've got to get going," he stated. He'd been lifting boxes of things that they'd need and running around for her for the last couple of hours.

"Um, not really. I was hoping to get a guy's opinion on the clothes, though."

Lucas smiled. "Well, I've got you covered."

"What do you mean?" she questioned, confused. It was then that she saw Chase walking towards them.

"Chase Adams reporting for duty," he announced.

Brooke folded her arms and gave him an amused look. "Skater Boy, I didn't know you were coming."

"I called him. I thought he could fill in for me when I left," Lucas explained.

"Well, that was very nice of you," Brooke commented.

"What exactly do you need me for?" Chase inquired.

"I actually need you to look at the line-up of outfits and tell me how they look on the models."

A huge grin formed on his face. "So I actually get to sit back and watch the models show off the clothes for me?"

"Sort of. Mostly it's for me to see which order I want certain ensembles to go in. You'll just happen to be watching."

"That's okay. I'm in," Chase proclaimed. He then turned to Lucas. "Thanks, man. You made my day."

Lucas chuckled and patted his back. "I know it's tough work, but I figured you could handle it."

"Chase, why don't you go take a seat next to Mille," Brooke instructed. "I'll be right there."

Chase nodded before doing as he was told. Brooke turned back to Lucas afterward. "Thank you for helping me today."

"I know that I haven't been around that much, but I wanted to do something nice for you."

"And I really appreciate that." She leaned in to give him a tender kiss. "Oh, and are we driving back to Tree Hill together today?" The Friends With Benefit Concert had been such a success. As a result, Karen was hosting a dinner at her house tonight to celebrate everyone's hard work.

"Actually, that reminds me. I was going to tell you to go with Peyton."

Brooke stared at him curiously. "Why?"

"I've got some stuff I need to do. I might be a little late."

"Oh. Again?" she inquired. He'd been disappearing quite a lot lately. "Because your mom wants everyone—"

"Don't worry. I'll be there," Lucas promised. He gave her a quick kiss. "But I really have to go right now. So I'll see you later."

"Yeah, later," Brooke replied as she watched him leave.

It was then that her discovery in Lucas' room popped into her mind. She'd tried for the past week to casually bring it up. Unfortunately, Lucas never really got her hints. And she didn't want to come right out and say that she found it. If he didn't tell her about it, then he obviously hadn't wanted her to know or read it. But she was probably making a big deal out of nothing. Lucas studied literature. He was going to be a writer. It made sense that he would start putting his talent to use now. She was sure he'd tell her about it eventually.

"Brooke, are you ready?" Millie called to her.

Brooke was shaken from her thoughts. "Oh. Yeah. Sorry." She walked over and took a seat between Millie and Chase. She nodded towards the models. "Alright, let's see what you got, ladies."

"Is that all we've got?" Karen questioned.

"I'm afraid so," Lydia replied.

"Darn," she mumbled before shouting loudly. "Keith!"

Keith entered the kitchen holding a sleeping Lily in his arms. "Keep it down. I just got her to sleep."

"I didn't know. Sorry," Karen said in a softer tone. "But we need you to run down to the store and get some more milk. We're almost out."

He nodded. "Alright. Let me just put her down first."

"Haley, honey, can you pass me the salt?" Lydia requested. Haley grabbed the container and handed it to her mother. "Thank you."

"You're welcome. Is there anything else you need me to do?" she questioned. She'd driven back to Tree Hill early to visit her mom and Larry. After a little while, they'd decided to come over and help Karen prepare for tonight's dinner.

"Haley Bop, are you okay?" Lydia asked.

Haley looked at her nervously. "I'm fine. Why?"

"I don't know. You've seemed a little jumpy all day."

"No," she denied. "I'm—"

"Fine," Lydia finished. "I know. That's what you've been saying all day."

Haley gave her a reassuring smile. "That's because it's true."

"Well—" Lydia was interrupted by the oven timer going off.

Saved by the bell, Haley thought with relief.

"Mom, I'll get those. Why don't you sit down? You've got to be tired," she said. The baby was due in a matter of weeks. She didn't want her overexerting herself.

Plus, her mother was obviously aware that something was going on with her. And Haley couldn't afford to let something slip right now. She and Nathan had a plan they'd promised to stick to. Haley looked at the clock and inwardly cursed. She just wished he'd show up already.

"Mmm…something smells good," Peyton commented as she and Brooke entered the kitchen. They waved to a busy Karen.

"Hey," Haley said as she pulled the bread rolls out of the oven.

"I'm starving," Brooke proclaimed as she reached for one. Haley quickly slapped her hand away. "Hey!"

"Those are for everyone during dinner," Haley scolded before placing some aluminum foil over the top to keep them warm.

"Meanie," Brooke pouted.

"Where's Mom?" Peyton inquired.

"She's probably in the living room with Larry now," Haley answered. "Where are Jake and Lucas?"

"Jake is probably with Larry."

"I'm glad he was able to come. Did he bring Jenny?"

Peyton shook her head. "She still can't leave the hospital. His parents are with her right now."

Haley gave her a sympathetic look. "Too bad."

"And Lucas will be a little late," Brooke added.

"Again? What is up with him lately?" Haley inquired. "He's hardly been around."

Brooke shrugged. "I don't know. I'm his girlfriend, not his keeper."

"Well—" Haley started to say when the doorbell rang.

"I'll get it," Larry announced.

"Can one of you girls let them know that Lily is asleep?" Karen requested. "If she wakes up now, she won't be a happy camper."

"I'll do it," Haley quickly offered. She could hear that it was Nathan and Deb who had arrived.

"Karen, is there anything we can do?" Brooke inquired after Haley rushed out of the room.

"Actually, one of you could stir this sauce for me while the other sets the table."

Brooke and Peyton both nodded. "Got it."

Haley walked into the living room to see her mom and Deb talking while Nathan, Jake, and Larry watched some game on TV.

"Haley Bop, want to join us?" Larry asked.

"Actually, I just came in here to let you know that Lily is sleeping. Karen asked if everyone could keep it down."

"Sure," Jake replied while lowering the volume of the TV. Haley's eyes locked with Nathan's. She motioned for him to follow her before leaving the room and walking down the hall.

"I'll be right back," Nathan said. Haley glanced around to make sure the coast was clear. She then pulled Nathan into Lucas' room.

"What—" Haley cut him off by pulling his head down and crashing her lips to his. She heard a low, guttural sound escape him in response. Haley wrapped her arms around his neck to keep him close.

They finally broke apart when air became a necessity. "Wow," Nathan mumbled. "What was that for?"

Haley smiled timidly. "Sorry. I just really needed that."

Nathan smirked. "Don't be sorry. In fact, feel free to greet me like that anytime."

"I'm just nervous."

"Why?"

Haley gave him an obvious look. They'd decided that they were finally going to tell everyone about the engagement today. Haley wasn't sure what everyone's initial reactions were going to be.

"I wouldn't worry about it."

"So you're not nervous at all?"

"Okay, maybe a little," he admitted. "But I think everyone will be happy for us." Haley nodded while taking a deep breath. That was her gut instinct, as well. But she still just wanted to get it over with. "Where's your ring?"

"In my pocket," she answered. It was practically burning a hole through her jeans. But she couldn't wear it until after they told everyone. Her sisters and mom were far too perceptive to not notice her wearing a diamond ring on a certain finger.

"We better get back out there," Nathan suggested. Haley nodded in agreement. "And whatever you do, don't lose that ring."

Haley smiled and rubbed her nose against his. "Trust me, once we tell everyone and I put it back on my finger, I'm never taking it off."

"Karen, this food is delicious," Larry declared.

"Yeah, honey, you really outdid yourself," Keith complimented and kissed her cheek. Everyone else nodded their heads in agreement.

"Well, thank you. But it wasn't all me. Lydia and Haley contributed, too," Karen informed them.

"What about us?" Brooke questioned.

"Yeah, we helped," Peyton spoke up.

"Oh, and Brooke and Peyton stirred the Alfredo sauce and set the table for us," Karen added.

Jake laughed. "It's a good thing that's all they did."

Peyton and Brooke narrowed their eyes at him as everybody else snickered or suppressed laughs. "And what is that supposed to mean?" Peyton inquired with a bewildered expression.

"Nothing. It's just that…well, I've actually tasted your cooking, baby."

"You said you liked that casserole I made," Peyton pointed out. She knew that it didn't come out exactly like the recipe said it would, but she didn't think it was that bad.

Jake shrugged. "I know. I lied." Peyton stared at him in outrage before smacking his arm.

"I don't get what that has to do with me," Brooke declared.

"If I remember correctly, I believe one of my daughters wanted to start a cookie business when she was little," Lydia stated. "So she and another curly-haired daughter of mine decided they'd try to bake them all by themselves."

Brooke glanced down at her plate and picked at her food. "So?"

"So they almost burnt the house down."

"Oh my God, I remember that!" Haley proclaimed. "Dad had to get the fire extinguisher. He was so pissed."

"I don't know what you're talking about," Brooke replied.

"What did you call your 'business' again?"

"Brookie's Cookies," Peyton answered.

"That's cute," Karen said, laughing. "Well, the name part. Not the almost-burning-down-the-house part."

Brooke couldn't help but smile then. "It was a clever name."

"Speaking of clever, I understand you finally came up with a name for your clothing line," Larry mentioned.

"I did."

"What is it?" Keith inquired.

"Clothes Over Bro's," Brooke announced.

Lydia grinned approvingly. "Ooh, I like it."

"Definitely sounds like something I would want to wear," Deb added.

"How is everything coming along?" Lydia inquired. "Rogue Vogue is in a few weeks, right?"

Brooke took a sip of her soda. "It's pretty chaotic, but I have it under control."

"Is the show free or do we have to buy tickets?" Larry asked.

"The tickets go on sale next week, actually."

"Then I'll be sure to get them early so we can be in the front row cheering you on."

"Thanks, Papa Sawyer," Brooke replied with a kind smile. She was sure to need all the support she could get.

"If you need any help, let me know," Peyton told her.

"Me, too," Haley said.

"Well, I've got Millie helping me, so I should be all set. But thanks for the offer."

"And let's just hope that Squirt decides to behave that day," Lydia said while patting her bulging stomach. "I refuse to go into labor during your show."

Haley frowned. "I thought you weren't due until the week after?"

"I am. But when I was pregnant with you girls, you were all early by at least a couple of weeks," she explained.

"Which is why I'm planning on finishing up the baby's room this weekend," Larry announced. "It looks like all three of you girls will be roommates over the summer."

Aside from the master bedroom, there were only two other bedrooms in the house. One of them was needed for the baby, so Haley had offered to give up hers. Since she had it all to herself, it would be easier for her to move her things into Peyton and Brooke's room rather than both her sisters having to relocate.

"I can't wait," Brooke muttered dryly.

Haley rolled her eyes playfully. "Gee, thanks, Tigger."

A moment later, the front door opened. Everyone turned to see Lucas enter the room.

"Broody, I'm glad you could make it," Brooke said while giving him a pointed look. He'd promised he wouldn't be that late. She'd noticed Karen checking the clock every once in a while. Brooke felt bad—especially since Karen worked her butt off to prepare such a delicious meal.

"I know. I'm sorry," he apologized to everyone while taking a seat next to her. "I was at school and things took longer than expected."

Karen got up and grabbed his plate. "I'll get you some food."

"Thanks. So, what did I miss?"

"Brooke was just pouting about how much closet space she will probably have to give up now that Haley is sharing a room with us at home," Peyton filled him in.

Lucas chuckled. "Oh."

"I was not," Brooke denied, even though it was true.

"Well, now that we're all here…" Karen declared as she placed the plate in front of Lucas and retook her seat. "I would actually like to propose a toast." She held up her wine glass. "I'd first like to thank Deb and Lydia for their amazing expertise and patience when it comes to running a business. These last several months at Tric and the café have been crazy. But like always, we managed to pull through it.

"I'd also like to thank Haley and Jake for performing at the concert. You're both very talented. Your performances were absolutely wonderful. And finally, I'd really like to give credit to Peyton for all of the incredibly hard work that she did." Karen then looked at Peyton. "Not only was the benefit concert your idea, but you managed to make it a success with all of the artists that you recruited for the show and album. It was a good cause, and I'm sure Jake will agree that the amount of money you raised for Jenny was unbelievable. You should be very proud of yourself, because I know that we all are. So, congratulations. And cheers."

"Cheers," everyone repeated before raising their glasses. Peyton took a deep breath to keep her emotions in check. She was so touched by Karen's words and everyone's gratitude towards her. Peyton still remembered when she told Jake how much money they'd raised for Jenny. He'd actually had tears in his eyes when he realized he'd be able to pay off his current bills and afford some that were coming up.

"Thank you," Peyton said with a sincere smile to everyone.

The meal resumed as the group continued eating and talking. Haley, however, remained quiet. She kept looking from her plate to Nathan and then back again. Finding the right moment to tell everyone about her and Nathan's plans was proving even more difficult than she'd originally thought. It was when she felt Nathan discretely nudge her arm that she knew it couldn't wait any longer. They'd just have to do it. Nathan took her hand in his under the table and gave her the go-ahead.

"Um, Mom, everyone," Haley interrupted.

"What is it, Haley Bop?" Lydia replied.

"Uh, Nathan and I have some news," she informed them.

"Is it about Duke going to the playoffs?" Larry inquired. "Because we already know you boys are going to kick butt."

"Damn straight," Keith added as the two high-fived one another.

"Hey, UNC has been doing pretty good this season, too," Lucas argued.

"Well, we'll see," Larry said. "Personally, I think—"

"It has nothing to do with basketball," Nathan quickly cut in. "Or school."

Deb frowned. "Then what is it, sweetie? Is something wrong?"

"No. It's nothing bad. In fact, it's good. It's really, really good," he stated.

"And this really good thing would be?" Lydia prompted.

Haley shot one more glance at Nathan. "Okay, I'm just going to say it. Nathan and I are engaged. We're going to get married," Haley announced. She let go of Nathan's hand, reached into her pocket, and put the engagement ring on her finger. Afterward, she held it up for them all to see.

Nine pairs of eyes bulged out in surprise at the sight, which was soon followed by silence. Haley and Nathan exchanged an unsure look.

"I know that it seems sudden," Haley spoke up. "But we've wanted to get married for a long time. And now seems as good a time as any."

More silence. Haley fidgeted nervously in her seat as Nathan gave her knee a reassuring squeeze.

"Oh my God!" Brooke squealed, finally snapping out of her stupor—along with everyone else. "This is so great! I knew this would happen!"

"You did?" Nathan questioned.

"Well, we figured with the two of you getting back together for good it wouldn't be long before you cracked and asked her again," Lucas joked.

Peyton nodded in agreement. "It took you long enough."

"Actually, I proposed to Nathan this time," Haley clarified.

Jake frowned. "When was the first proposal?"

"It's a long story. I'll fill you in later," Peyton whispered to him.

"Oh, who cares about who proposed to who? The important thing is that we're going to have a wedding. I love weddings!" Brooke proclaimed. "And oh my God, you have to let me make your dress, Tutor Girl!"

"Um, yeah, of course you can." Haley glanced at the adults in the room. They were still eerily quiet. "So…what do you guys think?"

"Well, I guess there is only one thing to say," Lydia declared. A beaming smile formed on her face. "Welcome to the family, Nathan—not that you're not already considered family, of course."

"Thank you," Nathan replied sincerely. His gaze shifted over to his own mother. "Mom?"

"I think you're both a little young," Deb stated, causing more shocked expressions among everyone.

"Mom, we're—"

Deb held up her hand to halt him. She continued, "But I know how much you both love each other. And I know how miserable you were, Nathan, without Haley in your life. So if getting married is what you want—and you're really happy and ready for something like this—then you have my blessing."

Haley let out a breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding. She got up and went to hug Deb and her own mom. Nathan followed.

"Congratulations," Larry added along with Karen and Keith. Her sisters, Jake, and Lucas had also gotten up to hug and shake hands. They were all genuinely happy for the couple.

"I told you things would work out, didn't I?" Haley heard her mother mumble softly to her.

"Well, I'm glad you're always right," Haley joked. She couldn't even describe how truly content she was at the moment. A little less than a year ago she felt like the whole world had come crashing down upon her. Like there was no hope. And now it was the complete opposite. She felt like anything was possible.

It wasn't long before Haley found herself back in Nathan's arms. The soft ping of a wine glass could be heard. Keith held it up. "I think another toast is in order. To Nathan and Haley: the future Mr. and Mrs. Scott."

Haley gave Nathan an affectionate squeeze. He leaned down to give her a soft kiss as the excited voices of their loved ones rang out in the background. "To Nathan and Haley!"