Clean Slate

Chapter 18

Weeks Later

"We're pregnant together! This is going to be so fun!" Peyton exclaimed. As she looked through the baby clothes racks in the outlet mall.

Peyton was 16 weeks pregnant. While Brooke was 12 weeks along.

"None of my clothes. Morning sickness is still kicking my ass. I'm gaining weight. I have to pee every 5 or 10 minutes. Back Aches."

"At what point does this get to be enjoyable.?" Brooke asked. Looking to her best friend.

"Once the symptoms start to lessen and you find out the genders. You realize you're body is creating a miracle. Proof of the love the two of you share."

"I'm having one baby. You're having two. So this journey will be somewhat more intense for you. But that's what Haley and I are here for. Love and support. When Lucas can't be."

"We'll ask Haley to tell us her labor and delivery story. With the last three kids. Later on. Right now. Let's have girl talk."

"And eat at the food court." Peyton insisted.

Brooke felt her stress levels rise. At the sight of her mother. Walking towards her.

Peyton took ahold of Brooke's hand. "We should get out of here. You don't need her negative energy during this beautiful process." She insisted.

Brooke nodded her head in agreement.

They got their food at the food court. Then left the mall.

Avoiding Victoria all together.

Once they got back in the car. They opened the windows. Pushed the seats back and ate their lunch.

Peyton placed the empty food and drink containers in her backseat.

"Anna and my dad are beyond excited and looking forward to the baby being born."

"Anna's reading to the baby. Looking up parenting styles. How to swaddle. And so much information."

"All i can handle is being pregnant." Peyton admitted honestly.

"I'm happy for you and her. I know having Felix and other jerks going after you and Anna for falling in love hasn't been easy but. The two of you are proving them all wrong." Brooke proclaimed.

"We're in the most happy stable place. Now onto you and Lucas."

"Hows the sex.?" Peyton asked quietly.

Brooke's eyes went wide. "That hasn't been happening. I mean with all the changes and lack of energy." She admitted.

"That will pass soon enough. And when it does. I say go for it."

"There is nothing hotter or bonding for a couple during this then sex. Plus the hormones make you all over the place. Have fun." Peyton suggested.

...

Tree Hill Middle School

"You're been spending all you're free time with Greg." One of the boys stated matter of fact.

"We miss you." A girl added in.

"He's my friend. He's cool. And his name is Eugene." Mackenzie said.

One of the boys rolled their eyes.

"There you go again. Taking on another charity case." The girl said.

"I heard his mom left him on the porch of Lucas Scott's house. Like some late package. Just admit you feel sorry for him." Another boy said.

"Eugene over here!" Mackenzie said. With a warm smile.