A/N: Alright everyone! Here is the new chapter! It is a lot longer than usual, and it is mainly a filler chapter! Things are going to start moving a lot faster like I have already told you, so get ready for some excitement! The song in this chapter is called 'Never Saw Blue Like That' and is by Katie Reider. I'm getting excited with the direction the story is headed! I hope you all like this chapter, it's extra long so enjoy!
P.S. I'm not sure if all of you know, but Sophia has been nominated for a Teen Choice Award (Best Drama Actress), which is very exciting! She is up against big competition, and we all want our girl to win because if anyone deserves it, she does. You are allowed to vote one time each day, so if everyone could take the time to vote that would be amazing. I will put the website on my profile that you need to visit to vote! Thank you to Katherine for bringing this to my attention. Now lets help our girl win this award!!
And were we ever somewhere else
Who knows, it's hard to say
...
Across the sky
Around the world
And you've given me all you have and more
And no one else has ever shown me how
To see the world the way I see it now
Oh, I, I never saw blue like that
Chapter Thirty Nine- Miss You In A Heartbeat
Lucas had been back in New York for three days now. He had been home for almost 82 hours, and everything seemed different. Every time he walked by Averie's bedroom, he opened the door because he knew that the two year old hated it when her bedroom door was closed. After opening the door, he remembered that she was in fact a ten hour drive away and he closed the door again. He was constantly filling the refrigerator with new water bottles, knowing that it drove Brooke crazy when she ran out of cold water. But every time he brought an arm-full of unopened bottles into the house from the garage, he only opened the fridge to find it already fully stocked.
As he got ready for work he didn't trip over any misplaced high heeled shoes, or have to change his shirt due to sticky fingers getting him dirty. It was weird, noticing all of these little things that seemed so mundane. He never thought he would miss the rushed mornings or the stress of trying to juggle his job while taking care of a two year old and making his girlfriend happy…but he definitely did miss just that.
"Lucas" Jake called through the house. He walked into the kitchen to find Lucas staring blankly out of the window that sat over the sink. "What the hell are you doing?"
Lucas jumped at his friends voice and turned around suddenly, "Did I miss something?" Lucas asked, raising a hand and running it over his barely existent hair.
"Yeah, apparently you did" Jake laughed, raising an eyebrow at his spacey friend.
Lucas squinted his eyes, suddenly nodding his head. "Right, the game tonight…I totally forgot."
Jake looked around the messy kitchen, "I think you've been forgetting a lot lately" he said, looking around at all of the scattered, messy dishes.
"Give me ten minutes" Lucas said, rushing out of the kitchen to get ready for his night working. He had to admit, it was pretty awesome when working considered going to sporting events and reporting about them the next day. As soon as he arrived back in New York, he told his bosses that he would be free to attend as many events as possible. He used to only go to important games so that he could spend time with Brooke and Averie, but now that they were gone, he figured he needed something to do just to pass the time.
After taking a quick shower and getting dressed, Lucas met Jake in the living room. He made sure his cell phone was charged and in his pocket just in case Brooke called while he was out.
"So, I'm thinking that I'm going to try and get out of that contract" Lucas said casually, shoving his hands in his jean pockets as he walked down the street with Jake.
"Missing them that much, huh?" Jake asked, already knowing the answer. "I mean its worth a try, but is that really the smart move to make for your career?"
Lucas shrugged, "Probably not the best career decision, but I'm sure there are other options I can pursue."
"You've been to Tree Hill, North Carolina right?" Jake said with a laugh, looking at Lucas disbelievingly. "I'm not so sure about job opportunities there."
"Nathan has a pretty good job" Lucas said casually, pulling out two rectangular tickets from his pocket as they walked through the crowds of people. He handed the tickets to the man standing next to the door and walked into the baseball stadium with Jake close behind. It wasn't everyday you got to go to a New York Yankees game.
"Yeah, he has a pretty decent job" Jake shrugged, "But it did take five years of coaching a high school basketball team before he was even considered for the coaching job at UNC, and I'm pretty sure the only reason he got that job was because he had an in with the previous coach."
Lucas thought about what Jake was saying, and it was true. Nathan and Haley had struggled job-wise, there obviously weren't a whole lot of opportunities in Tree Hill. Lucas knew that he had a good thing going for him in New York, and the longer he stuck with this job, the better chance he had with jobs in the future. But being away from Brooke and Averie was harder than he imagined.
Jake turned to Lucas as soon as they were situated in their plastic folding chairs, surrounded by strangers. "You know," Jake started, waiting for Lucas to actually look over and acknowledge that he was speaking. "Brooke has never forgiven herself for you leaving basketball for her."
Lucas shook his head, "I didn't just leave for her, I did it for me too…"
"Yeah, that's what I would claim too" Jake laughed, "I know that this whole distance thing is hard for you guys, but I'm not sure if you leaving your job is the right option. I know that your decision has nothing to do with me, but it has a lot to do with Brooke, you really should talk to her about all of this."
"You are right, this has nothing to do with you" Lucas snapped, focusing on the green baseball diamond.
Jake sighed loudly, he knew that he had probably overstepped his boundaries, but he didn't want Lucas to do anything stupid. Brooke was a stubborn girl, and Jake knew that firsthand, he really didn't want to see her upset over Lucas leaving another job because of her. He remembered when Lucas left basketball and Brooke confided in Jake how horrible it made her feel, and he didn't want that again.
Jake stood from his chair, knowing he needed to give Lucas a little breathing room. "I'm going to go find a hot dog stand…you want one?"
OTHbrucasOTHbrucasOTHbrucasOTH
Brooke rushed around the small store that was slowly being transformed into a fashionable boutique. She placed her hands on her hips, her heels tapping on the tiled ground as she walked around, observing the shelving that was being installed. She had left Averie with Haley for the day so that she could get some work done. She felt horrible leaving Averie there, Haley was already busy with her own two kids especially with Nathan working more. But Haley promised Brooke that they would be fine, and Brooke had no choice but to trust her.
"No, that's all wrong" Brooke said, shaking her head as she watched two men carry in a large glass case. "That's a little intimidating, who wants to look at jewelry through a glass case?"
"We're just bringing in what was ordered Ma'am" One of the men said regretfully.
Brooke nodded her head slowly, "I know you are" she smiled, "And you guys are doing a great job, but I just don't think that will be needed" she told him, motioning towards the huge case. "I understand if we can't get a refund on it."
"I think we can work something out" he told her. They lifted the case back up, taking it outside to the moving truck.
The store was coming together and Brooke was pleased. She couldn't wait until they could actually bring her clothes in and get them all arranged. It was only two weeks until the store opened, and Brooke didn't think there was a chance in hell that the store would be up and running by then. She knew there would be long days involved and it was worth it.
"How are things coming along here?" Trish asked, walking into the small store.
Brooke turned on her heels quickly, smiling widely as soon as she spotted Trish. She ran towards her, throwing her arms around Trish's neck. "Its going great" She grinned, pulling back and standing next to the lady who had become a close friend. They admired the store together and Brooke bit on her bottom lip, "What do you think?"
Trish nodded her approval, "I think its great Brooke" Trish walked around the store slowly, "We definitely have a lot of work to do. I have interviews set up for next week, I'm hoping we can find the perfect staff to help run this store. Luckily, we will have you here to look over it all."
"Its crazy isn't it? I really never expected this, I'm still pinching myself."
"Well Brooke Davis, this isn't a dream, it's really happening" Trish smiled proudly, resting a hand on Brooke's shoulder.
The rest of the afternoon ran smoothly. Brooke was happy that Trish was in town, and she was getting more comfortable with the idea of actually running a store. It was hard to believe that her little clothing line had skyrocketed and was now featured in magazines and actually being sold not only in Macy's and on a website, but in her very own store.
Brooke smiled tiredly as she walked up the driveway to Haley's house, not bothering to knock on the front door.
"How was the store?" Haley asked. She had Tessa placed expertly across her chest in a Baby Bjorn as she dried her hands on a small towel.
"It was great" Brooke smiled, "It's coming along pretty great."
"Well, you are just in time" Haley grinned, walking back towards the kitchen with Brooke following from behind. "We are just about ready for dinner, I made my famous macaroni and cheese."
"Mmm" Brooke sighed. "How was Ave?"
"She was perfect" Haley answered casually, "It was actually kind of nice, her and Max pretty much entertained each other all day. If anything having her here made my day a little bit easier."
Brooke rolled her eyes, "Haley, you can be honest with me."
"No I'm serious" Haley told her with wide eyes, being cut off by Averie and Max running into the kitchen.
"Mommy!" Averie grinned as soon as she spotted Brooke, her little bare feet tapping against the floor as she ran straight into Brooke's arms.
Brooke sighed, hugging Averie tight against her, "I missed you so much" Brooke said tiredly, running her fingers through Averie's long, silky hair. Brooke sat in a chair, placing Averie on her lap. "Did you have a fun day?"
"Pyayed on a syide" Averie grinned happily, her fingers tangling in the necklaces wrapped around Brooke's neck.
"You went down the slide?" Brooke asked, raising her eyebrows in excitement.
"Biiiig syide" Averie said, widening her arms.
"Wow Sass, that sounds pretty fun" Brooke grinned, kissing Averie's forehead.
"Where Mackey go?" Averie asked, furrowing her eyebrows.
"I don't know where he went," Brooke sighed, pursing her lips together, "You better go find him." Brooke set Averie down on the ground, watching as Averie clumsily ran out of the kitchen.
"Luke called and talked to her for a couple minutes" Haley said, dishing the macaroni and cheese into bowls. "You should've seen her face when she heard his voice."
Brooke sighed, "Yeah, I think she really misses him."
Haley bit on her lip, carrying the bowls over to the table. "How are you doing?"
"Honestly?" She asked, squinting her eyebrows as Haley nodded. "It's hard. I mean, I know it will get easier, but it's the small things I miss ya know? Things I never really noticed before. Like every morning when I wake up, Lucas already has coffee ready. Or when Averie is out of diapers, he always seems to refill them before I notice. And its hard falling asleep without him there, its even harder for Averie. I just hope I made the right decision."
Haley sighed, placing her arm around Brooke's shoulders. "It'll get easier Brookie."
OTHbrucasOTHbrucasOTHbrucasOTH
By the time Lucas got home from the Yankees game it was nearly midnight. He was dead tired and lazily shrugged his clothes off before climbing into bed. As he laid in bed, he could tell he wouldn't be able to sleep. He reached for his phone, dialing Brooke's number even though he knew it was late. He hadn't talked to her since earlier this morning, and she was so rushed then that she couldn't talk for long. He missed hearing her voice, and he smiled when she answered on the first ring.
"Luke" Brooke said sleepily into the phone as a smile slowly formed on her face.
"Hey baby, did I wake you?" He asked, sitting up in bed and resting against the headboard.
"No" Brooke yawned, "Okay, maybe" she admitted after hearing Lucas laughing on the other end. "How was the game?" She asked, her voice tired and raspy, making Lucas miss her even more.
"It was good," Lucas said plainly, "How was the store?" He asked, hating the way their conversations seemed to go now. He hated the way that it felt like they were living two different lives, but they were and it was something he knew he had to get used to.
"Great. It's really exciting Luke" Brooke smiled.
"I'm proud of you Brooke" Lucas said honestly.
They were both silent, lost in their thoughts of wanting what they couldn't have.
"I miss you" Brooke admitted, her voice quiet as she tried to hold in all of the emotions she was feeling.
Lucas closed his eyes, breathing in deeply. "I miss you too, Pretty Girl. God, I miss you too."
"Luke?" Brooke asked, her voice shaking as she spoke.
"Yeah?"
"Will you stay on the phone until I fall asleep?" She asked.
He couldn't tell if she was embarrassed or nervous to ask the question, but he immediately answered, "Of course," knowing he would like nothing more. He slowly lowered himself back into a laying position, pulling the blankets up around him. He listened as Brooke's breathing started to even out. "I love you Brooke."
"Mmm" Brooke breathed, "I love you too" she said, her words barely audible.
OTHbrucasOTHbrucasOTHbrucasOTH
It was Saturday, a week since Lucas had gone back to New York. Brooke rushed around her living room, cleaning up before Averie woke up. Her week had been hectic, and she vowed to spend the rest of her weekend locked in her house with her favorite two year old. After cleaning up the toys that littered the living room floor, Brooke sunk into the chocolate brown leather couch, taking a moment to breathe. After her and Lucas finished getting the new house set up, this room had quickly become Brooke's favorite. They had decided to decorate the living room in deep reds and chocolate browns with gold highlights, the result leaving the room feeling warm and welcoming.
Brooke was upset when Lucas told her he wasn't going to be able to come for a visit this weekend. They had originally planned spending weekends together, but Lucas had no choice but to travel with work on his days off.
"Momma" Averie pouted, rubbing at her eyes as she walked into the living room.
Brooke opened her eyes, opening her arms to the tiny girl. "Hey baby" Brooke smiled, watching as Averie sleepily raised her arms for Brooke to lift her up. Once the little girl was on her lap Averie snuggled her head into the crook of Brooke's neck. "Guess what Sweetie? I get to spend the whole day with you" Brooke smiled, rubbing her hand up and down Averie's back.
Averie sat up, pulling the binky out of her mouth and smiling at Brooke with wide eyes. "Pyay a baby?"
"Yup, we can play with baby dolls all day" Brooke grinned, standing from the couch and balancing Averie on her hip. "Let's go get you some breakfast and then maybe we can go outside."
OTHbrucasOTHbrucasOTHbrucasOTH
As soon as Lucas stepped off the plane he immediately turned his cell phone back on. He hated that he had to spend the weekend traveling across the country instead of his original plans of spending his days off with Brooke and Averie. But his boss was desperate and needed someone to fly to Washington for a big sporting event fair. He usually didn't report on things like this, but the week in sports had been slow and they needed someone to cover this story.
Lucas speed-dialed Brooke's cell phone, listening as the phone rang and rang. When her voicemail clicked on he closed the phone, shoving it back into his pocket. He knew that she was taking the day off, spending time with Averie after working all week, and he wasn't quite sure why she didn't answer.
He had pre-ordered a taxi, and was pleased to find it waiting for him outside of the airport.
"Are you sure this is the place?" Lucas asked the driver as they pulled up to the biggest, plainest building Lucas had ever seen. The parking lot was packed and there were people everywhere. It looked like a giant headache to Lucas. The taxi driver nodded, and Lucas paid him before climbing out.
As he walked through crowds of people and into the even more packed building, he pinched the bridge of his nose and closed his eyes. He couldn't believe he was here, looking at new sporting equipment when he could be with Brooke and Averie.
OTHbrucasOTHbrucasOTHbrucasOTH
"Okay, we are definitely getting one of these" Brooke grinned widely as her and Averie walked up to a display of small, plastic pools. "What do you think Ave? It's getting pretty hot outside."
"Yikes a fis" Averie nodded, pointing towards the blue plastic pool that was decorated in colorful swimming fish.
Brooke nodded, "Well, then we better get it. Just think, this little pool in our backyard comes with hours of fun and a new summer tan!"
Averie babbled back a response, most of it not making sense while Brooke pulled at the plastic pool, finally freeing it from the stack. She couldn't fit the pool in the shopping cart for the life of her, so she resorted to dragging it from behind her with one hand while using the free hand to push the cart.
When they got home from the store, Brooke unbuckled Averie from her car seat and then struggled to get the new, small swimming pool out of her backseat.
"Do you need some help with that?" Owen asked, walking towards Brooke's driveway.
Brooke stepped back, running a hand through her hair, "That would be great" She smiled, relieved.
Owen pulled the plastic pool out of the car effortlessly, "Where do you want it?"
Brooke looked over at Averie who was crouched down in the grass, plucking flowers out of the flower bed. "Let's take it around back" She told him, watching as Owen started around the side of the house with the pool. "Come on Sassy" Brooke said, reaching for Averie's hand and walking into the backyard.
Owen set the pool down on the grass, wiping his hands off on his faded jeans. "You know, the beach is only a five minute drive…"
Brooke rolled her eyes, placing a hand on her hips, "What are you trying to say neighbor-boy? This swimming pool is perfect."
Owen laughed, shaking his head at the feisty brunette. "Perfect, huh?"
Brooke and Owen watched as Averie tried to figure out how to climb into the empty swimming pool. The pool only came up to Averie's waist, and Brooke was sure she couldn't even lay in it because it was so small. But it would be perfect for Averie.
"Momma" Averie yelled, stomping her foot in frustration as she tried to climb into the pool.
"See, its not that small, she can't even climb into it and that kid climbs out of her crib" Brooke said, sticking her tongue out at Owen.
"So, when is the pool party? I'm sure you are having one, you must be after making such an important purchase" Owen said smugly.
Brooke lifted Averie up, placing her in the empty pool and watching as she happily stomped around in circles.
"Funny." Brooke said, rolling her eyes at Owen, already growing annoyed by him.
"Hey, I never got a chance to tell you that I'm sorry" Owen said seriously, his joking tone erased from his voice.
"Sorry for what?" Brooke asked, keeping her eyes trained on Averie instead of her annoying neighbor.
"For what Chase said a couple weeks ago at the café" He clarified. Brooke waved her hand, dismissing it as if it were no big deal. "No really, I respect the fact you have a boyfriend, and even though I've barely seen him around here I won't try anything."
"Good to know" Brooke laughed, her arms folded across her chest. "He lives in New York, that's why he hasn't been around" she explained. She knew she didn't owe him an explanation, but for some reason she felt comfortable around him. Sure she found him annoying and condescending, but she was the same way.
"If he's in New York, then why are you here?" Owen asked, hoping that he wasn't prying.
Brooke shrugged, "It's a long story."
"I have time."
OTHbrucasOTHbrucasOTHbrucasOTH
Lucas walked around the sports expo, wishing more than anything he could get his hands on a few shots of vodka. No wonder nobody else would agree to come to this thing. He was so sick of trying out the newest golf club or the brand new must-have baseball glove. He really didn't give a shit. He couldn't even walk around, the place was so packed with people that he could barely move. If this was what the job was turning into, he was definitely going to find a way out of that contract.
"Holy hell" he heard a squeaky voice from behind. The voice was familiar, and Lucas turned around to see a small girl with strawberry blonde hair approaching him. "Lucas Scott, is that you?"
Lucas squinted his eyes, smiling at the girl. "Tiffany" he grinned, opening his arms and throwing them around his ex-girlfriend. "God, how many years has it been?"
Tiffany shrugged, "At least three, you know you suck at keeping in touch with people right?"
"What are you doing here? Do you live here now?" Lucas asked, ignoring Tiffany's last comment. He had dated the girl in college, and the two had gotten along great. She loved sports just as much as he did, and hadn't missed a single one of his college basketball games. After they graduated college and Lucas started playing for the Knicks, Tiffany and Lucas decided to go their separate ways. After all of these years Lucas was shocked to run into her here out of all places.
"The company I am working for has a booth here and I figured it would be fun to come" She shrugged, linking an arm through Lucas'. "But I'm bored and hungry. What do you say we get out of here and catch up?"
"That sounds great" Lucas smiled, happy to see an old friend.
After walking for a few minutes, Lucas and Tiffany stumbled upon a small bakery. They ordered a couple of sandwiches and sat at a small table.
"So, let me just say I was shocked as hell when I found out you resigned" Tiffany said bluntly, shaking her head as she picked all of the pickles off of her sandwich. "Why did you do that?"
"I guess you can say a lot has changed in my life" Lucas sighed, thinking of Brooke and Averie. He pushed his food around, "You never finished telling me how you ended up at that horrible sports expo."
"Well, I work for an advertising company out of New York, and they decided to set up a booth at the expo. There are going to be a lot of people there and we are hoping it will bring more business. That's pretty much it." Tiffany shrugged, acting like she was less than interested. "What have you been up to? I've really missed you."
"Yeah, I've missed you too" Lucas said honestly. He loved how comfortable he was with Tiffany. "I'm pretty much just focusing on the show right now. But do you want to hear something crazy?"
"Uh, yeah. You know I love gossip" Tiffany grinned excitedly, rubbing her hands together happily.
Lucas reached in his pocket, pulling out a wallet size picture of Averie. He set it on the table, pushing it across to Tiffany, "I guess I'll show you instead of tell you." Lucas always used to find it annoying when people with kids talked about them constantly, but now that he was a dad, he realized that it was something to be proud of.
Tiffany picked up the picture, looking at the adorable little girl. "I don't get it, who is she?" She asked, looking up at Lucas with furrowed eyebrows.
"That" Lucas smiled, motioning towards the picture, "is my daughter, Averie."
Tiffany dropped the picture, her eyes widening at Lucas. "Your daughter? Lucas Scott has a kid! I don't believe it…you never wanted kids…the only thing you could ever concentrate on was round, orange and filled with air."
"Everyone changes" Lucas shrugged, not able to control the proud smile on his face.
"Geez, I guess so" Tiffany said in disbelief, now noticing the piercing blue eyes that the tiny girl had. "We have a lot to catch up on buddy."
OTHbrucasOTHbrucasOTHbrucasOTH
Brooke and Owen sat in two lawn chairs, watching Averie and Laela run around the yard. Brooke had filled the small plastic pool with water and Averie was overjoyed. Brooke changed the tiny girl into a ruffled, polka-dotted one piece swimming suit and pulled her long hair into a messy bun and Averie had been playing hard ever since.
Averie ran over to Brooke, picking up one of her mom's flip flops and then running back over to the pool, throwing the shoe in.
"Mommy" Averie called, waving her arm in the air, "Soo's ina wata" she grinned, pointing in at the shoe as it moved around in the water.
Brooke laughed at Averie, watching as she ran away from the swimming pool, suddenly entertained by something else.
"So it sounds like you and Lucas have been through a lot."
Brooke had told Owen her and Lucas' story. It was weird how comfortable she had grown with her new neighbor. She felt like she could tell him anything, and it was weird seeing as she had been totally annoyed with him only a few hours ago.
"Me and Amanda went through all that long distance shit for a while too, I know how that goes" Owen said, turning to face Brooke with a raised eyebrow.
"Wait a second," Brooke said, holding up a finger, "Who is Amanda?"
Owen let out a long, deep sigh, "Just this girl."
Brooke was suddenly interested, she turned in the chair, facing Owen with a wide smile on her face. "Just a girl? How come I'm sensing there is a little more to the story?"
"It's really no big deal. It's done and its over" Owen shrugged, keeping his focus on Averie and Laela instead of the brunette who was staring straight at him.
Brooke leaned back into her chair, resting her head back and crossing her arms across her chest. "Fine" she huffed, causing Owen to laugh at her. She narrowed her eyes towards him, "I didn't care anyways."
"Mommy" Averie half screamed half cried, running over to Brooke. "Mine cold" she cried, her bottom lip poking out as she hugged her arms around her shivering body.
Brooke grabbed the towel next to her and wrapped it around the little girl, pulling Averie into her lap. The sun was starting to go down, and the water in the tiny pool was cooling down instead of heating up. Averie nuzzled her head into Brooke's chest, suddenly completely worn out from her day in the sun.
"Did you have fun in the water?" Brooke asked, hugging Averie against her to warm the little girl up.
Owen stood from the chair, stretching his arms above his head. "Well, I better get going. Work calls."
Brooke stood as well, "Thanks for helping out today" she told him as they walked towards the back door to her house.
"It was fun. If you guys need anything, you know where I live" He told her, flashing her his pearly white teeth.
OTHbrucasOTHbrucasOTHbrucasOTH
Lucas told Tiffany all about Brooke and Averie. Though he didn't feel the need to give his ex-girlfriend details about how him and Brooke got to where they were today. She seemed genuinely happy for him. They had been best friends in college, and their friendship soon grew into a relationship. They had always been extremely comfortable around each other, and it made their friendship easy and natural.
Lucas stood from the table, shoving his hands into his pockets, "I have a flight to catch, I better get going."
"I'm sure my boss is shitting a brick not knowing where I ran off to" Tiffany laughed, flipping her long hair behind her. "It was great seeing you Lucas."
Lucas smiled, hugging Tiffany quickly. "It was good to see you too Tiff. Call me when you get back to New York and we'll have to get together again."
Tiffany nodded, "For sure," she smiled. "I'd like that."
Tiffany and Lucas walked out of the small bakery and back down the street. Tiffany looked up at Lucas, "Hey, that girl sounds great. Try not to screw things up with her."
Lucas rolled his eyes at Tiffany, "Don't worry, I'm not planning on it. You'll have to meet Brooke sometime, I really think you two would get along."
Tiffany pursed her lips together and nodded, "Definitely. She sounds really sweet."
Lucas walked Tiffany back to the sports exposition and caught a cab for the airport. He was worn out from his busy day. He couldn't believe he was already on his way back to the airport to catch a red-eye flight back to New York. Tomorrow wasn't looking good either. It was Sunday, which meant they had their weekend show that was always cram-packed and busy. He also was hoping that he would get a chance to talk to the show's producer about the contract he had signed.
After Lucas checked in at the airport and made it through security, which had been a nightmare, he found an empty seat by his gate and tried to get comfortable.
OTHbrucasOTHbrucasOTHbrucasOTH
After Brooke and Averie came inside, they ate a simple and quick dinner. Brooke was determined to give Averie a bath even though the little girl was tired and resisting. Averie cried almost the whole time in the bathtub, but Brooke still wouldn't give up. After spending all day outside, the little girl was a mess.
"Momma, out" Averie cried, tipping her head back and splashing her little hands in the water.
"Just a second baby, let me get your towel" Brooke told her, reaching around her for the pink and purple hooded towel. Averie stood up and she wrapped the little girl in the towel, lifting her out of the tub. "Let's go find some jammies and get to bed."
Brooke laid Averie down on her changing table, putting a diaper on the little girl before smothering her in baby lotion.
"Where daddy go?" Averie asked through a half yawn, half pout.
Brooke set the bottle of lotion down on the changing table, watching as Averie rubbed her eyes tiredly. She hated when Averie asked this question, and she had been asking it a lot in the last week. Most of the time the question was out of pure curiosity, but other times it was asked with full on tears.
"We'll see daddy soon, kay baby?" Brooke told her, trying her hardest to smile at the little girl. Brooke put Averie's pajama's on and lifted her into her arms, cradling Averie's wet head on her shoulder. Brooke reached in Averie's crib for her pink blanket and pacifier before settling into the big, comfy rocking chair. She rocked the little girl, rubbing her back as she whimpered and cried softly. It didn't take long for Averie to fall asleep, and Brooke stood from the rocking chair slowly, making sure not to wake the sleeping girl up.
"Momma, no syeep" Averie cried once Brooke laid her into the crib. She reached her arms up for Brooke, her bottom lip starting to shake.
"Don't cry" Brooke soothed, quickly lifted Averie back into her arms as soon as her little lip started to tremble. Brooke ran her hands down Averie's back, relieved that she seemed to calm back down. "Do you want to come lay with mommy tonight?"
Averie sat up, her eyes heavy with sleep. "Big bed?"
Brooke kissed Averie's forehead, "Yeah, big bed" she smiled.
Brooke and Lucas had made it a point to make Averie sleep in her own bed since she was little. Even though it was hard at times, they knew that in the long run, it would be the best for them and their little girl. But the last week had been hard, and with all of the sudden changes Averie hadn't been sleeping well. If Averie didn't start the night off sleeping with Brooke, then she was usually sleeping in there by morning. Brooke swore that once everyone was used to all of the changes that she would make sure Averie was back in the habit of sleeping in her own bed.
Brooke settled into her bed next to Averie who was now sleeping soundly where Lucas should have been. She plugged her cell phone in to charge, and reached for her sketchbook. She was too wound up to go straight to sleep and took this as the perfect opportunity for some new sketches she had due for Macy's.
When her phone started to ring suddenly, she quickly reached for it, pressing the button on the side to silence it. After looking over to make sure Averie was still asleep beside her, she flipped the cell phone open.
"Hello" She said quietly, resting her sketchbook down on her legs.
"Hey" Lucas smiled, happy to hear Brooke's voice.
"Luke!" Brooke grinned, happy to hear from her boyfriend. "Are you back in New York yet?"
"Just waiting at the airport" he sighed, "How was your day off?"
"It was pretty good" Brooke shrugged, leaning back into her pillows. "Me and Ave played outside mostly. We got one of those small plastic pools and she loved it."
"Sounds like a blast, I wish I could've been there."
"Me too" Brooke sighed, "How was that boring sports deal thingy?"
"It was just that, boring."
"Ave keeps asking where you are, I think she really misses you" Brooke frowned, looking over at her sleeping baby.
"I miss her too. It's a lot harder than I thought it would be." He thought about telling Brooke about leaving his job, Jake did say that he should talk to her. But now just didn't seem like the right time, especially since he didn't even know if there was a chance he could get out of his contract. "I'll be there next weekend no matter what."
"You have to be. Then you can be here for the store opening" Brooke smiled softly, "You need to be here for the opening."
"I wouldn't miss it for the world" Lucas told her.
"So you know the neighbor, Owen?" Brooke asked, biting on her lip. Lucas mumbled a yeah, and she continued. "Well, he helped me with the pool today, and he was really nice, surprisingly."
"So, did you like spend the day with him then?" Lucas asked, his voice changing from soft and calming to bitter and protective.
"Not really the day. He apologized about the comment Chase made the other day, I think he actually felt stupid" Brooke laughed, "I think you and him will get along."
"I'm not so sure I like the idea of you hanging out with him."
"Why?" Brooke asked defensively.
"Because he's a guy Brooke, and we both know what he thinks about you…"
"He's not like that Lucas. I'm pretty sure he's rooting for us to make it. And stop whining about it, I just wanted to tell you about my day." Brooke said, rolling her eyes. She should've realized that Lucas wouldn't be the first in line to welcome her friendship with Owen, but he didn't have to be such an ass about it either.
"I just don't trust the guy."
"You don't even know him, and anyways it doesn't matter. He's my neighbor and I have to get along with him" Brooke said, waving her hand and dismissing the subject. "I'm really tired, I should probably be getting to sleep." The tone of Lucas' voice was enough to make her want to get off the phone with him. She hated when he turned all crazy and jealous, and she didn't want to end up getting into a fight with him over something as dumb as her next door neighbor. It was better just to give Lucas the night to cool off and talk to him tomorrow.
"Okay, sleep good. I'll talk to you later" Lucas said bitterly.
"Love you" Brooke mumbled into the phone.
"I love you too, goodnight."
Brooke flipped the phone shut and set it on her nightstand. She buried her self in the covers next to Averie, then reached over and turned off the small lamp. As she lay in the dark she closed her eyes, wishing that when she opened them Lucas would be beside her. She hated it when her and Lucas ended a conversation like they had, especially since they were living in different states. But the distance was bound to cause tiny hiccups in their relationship especially when they were both on end. She just had to count down the days, knowing that in a week Lucas would be there and everything would be back to normal. If only for a few days.
And some things are the way they are
And words just can't explain
A/N: What did you think? Make sure and let me know in a review, you guys are after all the best reviewers ever! Don't forget to vote for Soph for the Teen Choice Award!!
Thank You To:
Sydney (LoVeBrucas): Wow! You are totally the numero uno reviewer! Way to go buddy! I knew it would happen one day. It's even better that it happened on your birthday! Hahaha why aren't you embracing Owen. Yup, Chase is here too. I bet you are loving me right about now! Haha. Owen is not sketchy. Shut your mouth haha. And he is not the creepy neighbor. Don't make me make you hate him more. Did that make sense? Whatever! Chae will be back soon, probably in the next chapter, so don't you worry! I'm glad you like the name Tessa, its one of my favorites! Oo, and Felix…now that right there is an idea. Why are you putting ideas in my head haha. I'm glad you liked the last chapter. I hope you like this one, and if you don't then you can suck it. Haha. I love you. Thanks for always reviewing crazy.
Cass (CheerandBrood323): You are totally the second review, and I think its great that you were reviewing and reading so late at night. I'm a night owl too, so that's cool. I'm glad you loved this chapter, and I am gonna miss brucave too haha. You are too funny, ily. I hope you are having fun in Maine…I've never even been there and I swear you always go there. Haha. Thanks for the review, I'm gonna go see if you've posted your story!
Whiters: Drama sensors! I'm glad they are itching for more haha, that's awesome. I'm glad you like the way I am portraying Averie, it is always good to hear that a character is realistic. It's so good to know that you can feel all of the emotions they are feeling and everything, that is really awesome. Thank you for always taking the time to review, it means a lot. I hope you liked this chapter!
Yaba: I seriously love your story. I havent had much of a chance to read it yet, but I'm hoping to get caught up within the next week. I think about it all the time haha. I know what its like being in those ruts…it happens to me all the time. Its so frustrating! If you ever need to talk it out feel free to message me! I really am honored that you love my story seeing as I admire your writing so much! Haha, owen being the neighbor is kinda scary right? And I'm glad you think Averie is so adorable! I don't have a little sister, but I have been working with kids for like the past 3 years, mainly with 1-3 year olds so I feel like I know them pretty well haha. I'm glad you like the way Brooke and Lucas interact with her, and its great to hear that it is realistic. I'm glad that you think Averie is a good addition to the story, because I know what you mean when throwing a kid into the mix can mess things up. Thank you so much for the amazing review and all of the kind words. It is really amazing to hear it coming from you, so thank you! I hope you like this chapter!
Sweetchristie03: Its so good to hear you liked the last chapter, and are excited to see what is going to unfold in the future. I love reading and writing about Lucas' jealous side as well! It is so fun haha. Its true, you can't have a story without Naley and their spawn (that cracked me up btw haha). I would love to read your story! I am going to put it on my alert list right now because if I don't I will forget about it! When I get a chance I will definitely read and review! Thank you for always being such a dedicated reader and reviewer, you really are awesome! I hope you liked this chapter!
Dolcegrazia: I'm glad you think Ave and Max are so adorable…I think they are too haha. Thank you for always reviewing, and I hope you liked this chapter!
Jem (flipflopgal): Hey! I'm so glad you think Ave is so cute, haha. And yeah, it will definitely be hard for her and Brooke without Lucas around! I'm so glad you loved the last chapter, and I hope you like this one as well! It is always great to hear from you, thanks for always reviewing!
Chasitybsp: I'm so glad you liked the new chapter! I'm so glad you found the little slip of Chase's tongue funny, haha. It's true, a lot has happened between Brucas and it can only make them stronger! Ave is going to have a hard time, that's for sure! Poor little baby. I'm glad you are excited to see what the future will bring for our Brucas family. Thank you for always reviewing, they are greatly appreciated! I hope you like this chapter!
Katherine: For starters, you never let me down with your reviews. They are always more than amazing, and really…I just love them. I always look forward to your reviews, and they always totally cheer me up and make me want to write. Did you ever get a chance to read that chapter I sent you? I understand if you don't have time, I was just wondering. Anyways, yeah you need to watch that deleted scene if you have season 2 on dvd..its funny haha. I'm so glad you loved the last chapter, and I'm a little surprised it is one of your favorites haha. I'm sure you've said that a few times though just cuz you are awesome! But I totally understand your reasoning, it was all about Brucave, and they are the younger version of the classic all-American family. I love that. I'm glad you loved the brucas car scenes. Haha. They were fun to write. I kinda drug that chapter out just to write them, but I think it was totally worth it! I'm glad you liked the Brooke peeing every five seconds haha that is totally Brooke! Gah, I seriously love how you notice every little Averie detail. It totally like makes my day, you don't even know. Like her not wanting to be in the car and having all the problems with the changes and new house. I love that you notice it all. I'm glad you thought I portrayed the parent-child relationship beautifully…do you know how huge of a compliment that is? Seriously, thank you so much. I can't even tell you how much it meant to read that! I'm glad you liked the whole café part….you know I love a jealous Lucas too hahaha. And thank you for the heads up of Soph being nominated for a TCA…I added it in my A/N..which you probably already saw! We need to vote like crazy because you are right, her competition is tough and she deserves it more than anyone for being such an amazing actress. And I totally agree with you about the Chad being nominated as Lucas thing….I don't really care either hahaha, and Lucas was a douche this season so whatev. Haha. I'm glad we are on the same page with that :DAnyways, enough rambling. I looooved reading your review as usual. Seriously, you amaze me! Thanks for always leaving such great reviews! You are the beest. I hope you liked this chapter!
Katie (BrOoKe DaViS23): Hey bif! I'm pretty sure you like this story way too much. You are silly, one of these days you aren't gonna like a chapter hahaha. I know it. Just kidding, you are waaay too easy to please and love everything. I'm glad you liked this chapter and even all future chapters as well haha. I'll talk to you soon crazy girl!
Brucas3Naley23: You are definitely right, things are getting interesting. I'm glad you thought the part with Owen and Chase was funny, haha. Thank you for always reviewing, I love them. I hope you like this chapter!
Onetreehillgirl066: Of course I forgive you for not reviewing in a while. Its all okay since you are reviewing now! Hmmm, you'll just have to wait and see what happens though, I'm not giving anything away haha. It was good to hear from you! Thanks for the review! I hope you liked this chapter!
Jay (BrucasNaleyluvr): Hey buddy! Another review from you, you are really on a roll haha. I love it. Yeah, my vacations are getting a little out of hand, but from now on they are going to be pretty much non-existent. I hope lex is feeling better, she probably is since its been so long since I've talked to you! Haha, good luck pushing me to do a sequel. We both know its not happening haha. I'm glad you like the name Tessa, and no there will be no rape haha. You are funny. Thanks for reviewing, you know I love them! I hope you like this chapter!!
Reina123: I'm so glad you liked the last chapter! Its good to know that you are excited for all of the new changes and drama that are bound to come along with the new move. Thank you for always reviewing, and I hope you liked this chapter!
Othfan326: I'm so glad you loved the last chapter! That is always great to hear! It is true, all of the changes in Averies life are sure to affect Averie, and I'm glad you noticed that! You'll have to wait and see what happens on the kid front, but you are right…the first chapter does give you a glimpse of their life. We will still be seeing Chae and Jake from time to time, I think they should be making an appearance in the next chapter! Thank you for always leaving such amazing reviews, I love to read them! I hope you liked this chapter!
Jen (courtneylovejason): Hey! How are you? It's been awhile my friend. It was good to get a crazy review from you..they have been missed. Hahaha, owen craving brooke…that's one way to put it. I love owen too. And you know me, I love to be mean. especially to you haha. You cant make me give you a long thank you haha. Whatev! Thanks for reviewing though. Its been weird not having you drive me crazy constantly. I'm starting to miss it haha. I hope you are having fun and keeping busy. Talk to you soon? I hope you liked this chapter if you ever get a chance to read it!
Tanya (tanya2byour21): haha, chase does have a big mouth! I'm glad you found it entertaining haha. It is true, Ave is definitely having some issues with all of the changes, but that is expected! I'm glad you are excited to read more, that is a great thing to hear! Thank you for always reviewing. I hope you liked this chapter!
Brucas1992: I'm glad you liked the last chapter, that is always good to hear! I'm also very happy that you love this story! That is like the best compliment ever! It will definitely be interesting to see Lucas and Brooke apart…and after reading this chapter you get a little taste of that. I hope you liked this chapter! Thank you for the very kind review!
NYGIRL09: haha, I'm glad you thought the last chapter was hilarious with Chase being all dumb haha. I do that all the time too, and its definitely funnier when you can relate! Haha. I'm glad you like a jealous lucas, so do I! Thanks for the review, and I hope you liked this chapter too!
BRUCAS EQUALS LOVE: haha I'm glad you liked the last chapter! I'm glad you are still loving Brucas…that is my main priority haha. It is scary leaving Brooke alone with Owen though, because Owen is hott…at least I think so haha. And its true, even though Brucas love each other and are meant to be together, there will still be hard times. I'm glad you realize that! Thank you for always reviewing no matter what! I always look forward to your reviews! I hope you liked this chapter!
Brucasgirl42: Its always nice to get a review from you! I'm glad you liked this last chapter as well as the one before it, that is great to hear! I'm glad you like the way Lucas is looking out for Brooke throughout the whole house buying process! He is a champ! Thanks for the review, and I hope you liked this chapter!