Family Matters

Chapter 23

Chris narrowed his gaze at Nathan. "I don't know whether you sound more delusional or pathetic. For someone who has spent years claiming they are better then their father. You continue to prove that you are worse then Dan Scott ever was. At least Dan owns who he is. You hide behind you're pride and you're family name. You are grasping at bread crumbs from the past because it's all you have. Jamie hates you. Haley tolerates you because the two of you share a child. That isn't love. It's obligation. Family values aren't high on you're priority list. Cheating with Renee almost marrying her blows this longing for reconnection story out the window now you're playing daddy to kids who aren't even yours. They come first before Jamie. You know that's true." Chris said.

"You don't get it do you. This entire relationship is Haley living in a state of denial. There is no stronger bond between two then having a child. You would know nothing about that. We were married multiple times. You're simply a mistake that's she's having fun with until she comes home to me. It's cute though how real you think it is." Nathan said.

"Once Haley and I are married i don't want to hear her name come out you're mouth again." Chris said.

Nathan stared back at Chris. "Haley's name will always be on my lips. She will forever have place in my mind. You did always enjoy second place. It began with Haley and I that's how it will end." He said.

The then turned from each other and went their seperate ways.

...

Hours Later

The news of Haley and Chris's engagement spread around town fast.

The couple knew they wanted a private, personal, fast celebration give Jamie's health issues. They wanted to ensure that he would attend.

"We'll get married at the church my parents did. Then have the reception at Brooke and Lucas's house. You've seen their backyard there is plenty of room. The sooner we get married the better." Haley said.

Chris nodded his head agreement. "Sounds perfect. Now we just need to figure out the rest of it. We can hire a chef and a band for the reception. Who could marry us.?" He asked.

"We just have pick out a minister. There are plenty in town. Dress and tuxedo shopping. A menu for the wedding and reception. It'll work itself out." Haley said.

...

Weeks Later

Haley was wedding dress shopping with her friends and sisters while Chris and Jamie shopped for tuxedos.

"I left out apart of the surprise when i told you about the engagement. You see i want to officially adopt you. Given all the turmoil you've endured i want you know that you have us both forever." Chris said.

Jamie's face softened. He leaned over hugging Chris tightly.

"Thank you. There is nothing i want more." Jamie confessed.

...

Sometime Later

Nathan opened the front door slowly surprised to see Jamie staring back at him.

"If you care about me at all. You'll sign you're rights away. And let Chris adopt me." Jamie pleaded.

"I can't do that. I won't. You're my son. He can become you're stepfather if anything nothing more." Nathan proclaimed.

"I hate you! Why do you have to be so selfish! It was only mom and I on our own until Chris came along. Let me go!" Jamie yelled.

His balence began to become unstable as his eyes shut and he fell to the floor.

Nathan's eyes went wide as he grabbed his cellphone from his pocket and dialed 911.

...