Clean Slate
Chapter 21
When we were younger
And free. The world fell at our feet.
Brooke was posting up signs for her upcoming Summer Sale. Everything in her store would be on discount. From the minute she opened to the second she closed. It last 48 hours only. The sale brought forward so much business. Plus she loved seeing her store so full of customers.
"You shouldn't be doing anything like this right now." Nathan said. As he entered the store and helped her off the step stool.
"Nate i appreciate the concern. But it's not needed. I'm pregnant."
"Yet perfectly capable of running my business and doing watever is needed. Plus Lucas hovers around me enough. No lifting or moving around too much."
"I'm not fragile." Brooke stated matter of fact.
"I know that. And Lucas is well aware of how tough you are."
"But you also need to keep in mind that he loves you. And is just protective because he cares so much. He wants to make sure you and the babies are safe." Nathan stated matter of fact.
"I know and i love him for that. But i need my entire life not to change just because." Brooke began to say.
"You're going to be having 2 babies. Nothing will be the same after that. Haley and I are done having kids. We have Jamie. Plus the triplets."
"Which means we're here to offer any advice. Ad of course babysitting." Nathan said.
...
"So tell me everything. How are you really feeling about the impending birth of the babies. And how is it having Eugene in you're life.?" Haley asked. Placing down a take out bag containing lunch for the two of them.
"I'm happy that i get to be a father to my son now. I hate that i missed out on years with him but i plan to make up for that with the twins by never missing anything. As much as i can anyway." Lucas replied.
...
"It's been a really long time." Mouth said. Surprised at how she looked exactly the same. As she did in his memories.
"You look good. Established. I heard you. Settled down. I'm happy for you." Rachel said. Wondering if she sounded honest.
"Let's have a drink. To old friends." Mouth said.
Rachel smiled shyly. Clinking her glass with his.
...
"There is so much i would take back if i had the chance." Rachel admitted. Once they were in Mouth's hotel suite.
She couldn't grasp it all. How he had found his place in the world and his career had brought him to this place where he was at peace.
Or maybe it was his family. Regardless.
He was different now. In a way she couldn't describe.
And all she longed for was to drink it in.
"I know you have you're life. Wife. Family."
"But damn it. I have to be honest. I never got over you."
"I love you. It's wrong. Crossing a boundary. But it's the truth." Rachel confessed.
Mouth was stunned. And not sure how to respond.
He had locked his feelings for Rachel away. A long time ago.
Yet there was a part of him. Affected by her words.
...