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A/N: Here's the second part...enjoy!
Loneliness & The Plane Ride – Part 2
Summer, as much as she tried to resist it, was letting her guard down with Pete. She hadn't felt this open with a man in a long time—since Seth, to be specific. Pete was different than the other guys she'd met since Seth's death. The others were anxious to get a piece of Summer. They were into the physical aspect of a relationship with Summer, while Pete seemed genuinely nice and interested in her. He didn't seem to be interested in her just because she had a killer body and was beautiful. It was a nice change. Maybe that's why Summer was comfortable?
"Attention passengers: Flight 818 to Los Angeles will be landing at LAX in about 20 minutes. Thank you and enjoy the remainder of your flight," the pilot announced.
Pete stretched. The long flight had flown by while he got to know Summer better. She was a really sweet woman, not to mention the fact that she was drop-dead gorgeous. He could see that she was still hurting from her husband's death. Plus, he didn't like to rush into things. So for now he would try to be her friend. Summer looked like she could use a few more guy friends.
"It was nice getting to know you," Pete started. Summer groaned inside. Here was the part where Pete would ask her out and she would politely decline. "I'd like to have coffee with you while I'm in Newport. As your friend."
Summer's heart leaped. Pete was possibly the first guy to want to just be her friend. What a nice guy. She was liking him more and more. As a friend, of course.
"That sounds good," Summer answered, and Pete smiled. He hadn't expected her to say yes. He guessed it was because of the friend part. "Here's my number. Just call me when you're in Newport."
As they exited the plane, Summer scribbled her number on a piece of paper. She handed it to Pete and hugged him. This wasn't so bad. She could always use another friend.
"Bye, Summer," Pete called, as he headed towards the baggage claim. Summer, notorious for over-packing, had not over packed for once. All she had was her rolling Louis Vuitton, which she had brought on the plane with her. That, and a garment bag for her suits. Oh, and her Louis Vuitton purse. But that was it. And for Summer, that was not a lot at all.
Summer found her car in the parking garage and loaded her stuff into it. She drove home, and collapsed into bed when she arrived at her sprawling mansion. She hadn't realized just how tired she was.
Two weeks later...
Summer sighed. Lately, she had been overwhelmed with work. She decided to go home early. Actually, very early, considering it was only 1:30 and she normally worked until at least 5.
"Luke?" Summer knocked on the door to his office, which was conveniently located next to hers.
"Hi Summer," Luke waved her in. "What's up?"
"I think I'm going to take the rest of the day off. It's been so hectic lately, I just need a few hours to myself," Summer said. She felt a little bad making Luke do all the work, but hey, she had been through a lot. And Luke didn't mind. After all, he had two kids at home and another on the way. His house was always bustling.
Summer drove home and checked the messages on the answering machine. Pete had said he'd be in town around Valentine's day, and it was the 12th.
"Hi, Summer? It's Pete. We met on the plane. Well, I've been in meetings all week but I'm free tomorrow. The 13th. I guess I'll catch you later, here's my number..." Summer grinned as she heard Pete's voice. Looks like she found a friend.
She picked up the phone and dialed Pete's number.
"Hello?" Pete said.
"Hey, it's Summer. I just got your message," Summer smiled.
"Oh, good. Do you want to meet up tomorrow?" Pete asked hopefully.
"Sure. How is 3:30? Do you want to meet at the Starbucks in the Corona Del Mar Plaza?" Summer suggested. She could get almost a full day's worth of shopping in, and then meet up with Pete.
"Okay. Don't give up if I'm a few minutes late. I'm not exactly sure where that is," Pete laughed. "I'll see you tomorrow."
"Bye," Summer said, hanging up. She couldn't wait to see Pete.
The next day...
Summer walked into Starbucks 15 minutes early. She was exhausted from shopping. After so many years of Seth carrying her bags, she wasn't used to carrying them herself. To her surprise, Pete was already waiting for her, latte in hand.
"Hey," Summer exclaimed. "You're early!"
Pete grinned nervously. "I wanted to make sure I got here in time. This place was easier to find than I expected."
Summer got in line to order her drink, a white mocha latte. When she got it she sat down at the little table Pete had saved.
"So, how did the meetings with Ryan go?" Summer asked between sips of the piping hot drink.
"Great. He's a very talented young man. My partners want me to stay in town for a few more days. I'll be flying down here a lot in the next few months," Pete informed her.
Summer's heart leaped. It was totally placid though. She was just excited at the prospect of hanging out with a new friend. "We'll have to meet up again, then," Summer forced herself to say.
Pete's ears perked up. Did she just say what he thought she just said. "I'm sorry, what did you say?"
"I said, we'll have to meet up again, then," Summer repeated, feeling heat rush to her cheeks. Was that the wrong thing to say? She didn't want to lead him on.
"Definitely," Pete took a sip of his drink.
They talked for another hour, and then Summer realized she was supposed to meet Marissa for a girls' night. "I just realized I'm supposed to meet someone."
Pete's hope washed away. Someone? "Oh," he said slowly.
Summer read Pete's thoughts. "My best friend Marissa and I try to catch up at least once a week."
And the tide brought Pete's hope rushing back. "That's nice," he replied, cheering up.
"She's Ryan's wife," Summer added.
"Tall, pretty, light brown hair?" Pete asked. "Ryan has a few pictures of her in his office."
Summer smiled. "That's her."
They hugged and went their separate ways. Summer drove home and took a quick shower before Marissa came over. She threw on Juicy pants and a white Petit Bateau tank top. She had just settled down on the couch with a pint of Ben & Jerry's when the doorbell rang.
"Hey," Marissa hugged Summer. "How are you?"
"Better," Summer sniffed. Earlier, she had come across an old picture of her and Seth from high school. That led to a few fallen tears.
"Are you ready for our girls' night?" Marissa asked, walking into the living room. She spotted the ice cream. "You started without me!"
"Sorry," Summer shrugged. "I couldn't wait." Marissa kicked off her heels and settled in on the couch. Summer joined her.
"So how did the Chicago meeting go? I know it was 2 weeks ago, but you never told me," Marissa asked, while Summer flipped the channels to see what was on Pay-Per-View.
"It was fine," Summer contemplated telling Marissa about Pete. Marissa would be thrilled that Summer was making "friends." But for some reason she couldn't let Marissa into this part of her life. Not yet.
Two pints of Ben & Jerry's, one large pizza, and a few cans of Corona later, Marissa and Summer were all partied out. They had watched "Heartbreakers", "Heathers," and "Clueless." Summer yawned.
Marissa said she should be going. Summer walked her to the door. "Thanks, Marissa. I really needed this," she whispered, burying her head in Marissa's shoulder. Marissa had a knack for making Summer forget about all of her problems. Including Seth. Not that he was a problem.
The next day...
Summer woke up as the phone rang. She looked over at the clock. 9:30. Who would be calling this early? Well, technically, it wasn't early, but most people who knew Summer knew not to call before 10:30 on the weekend.
"Yeah?" Summer answered the phone, not bothering to say hello.
"Summer? It's Pete, did I wake you up?" Pete sounded concerned.
"Well, actually, you did, but it's okay," Summer replied, yawning. Just then the doorbell rang. The chimes echoed throughout Summer's large, empty mansion. "Can you hold on a sec?"
Throwing on slippers, Summer ran downstairs to get the door. When she opened it, there was a deliveryman holding a large bouquet of pink and white roses. Summer's heart stopped. They were the same combination that Seth bought her every year. But they obviously couldn't be from Seth. Had Pete done this? Summer hoped not. She knew she wasn't open to that kind of relationship right now, and up until then she had thought he knew this too.
"Delivery for a Summer Cohen," the man announced, holding out his clipboard for her to sign.
Summer scribbled her signature on the dotted line and took the flowers from the man. He tipped his hat to her and walked back to his car. She shut the door and slowly walked into the kitchen, breathing in the fresh, sweet smell of the roses. Carefully, Summer reached into the bouquet and grabbed the card. She gasped and almost fainted when she read it.
Summer-
Happy Valentine's Day. I love you more than anything and I always will. You mean the world to me, and these flowers are a symbol of my everlasting love. Every day I thank God for bringing you into my life.
Love,
Seth
Summer's eyes narrowed as the first tears began to fall. What kind of sick joke was this? Who would want to hurt her? As she sank into a chair, she realized that she'd left Pete on the phone. Of course, there was a phone in the kitchen, so Summer reached for it.
"Pete?" Summer choked out between tears.
"Summer, are you okay?" Pete instantly became worried. "Who was at the door?"
"N-No," Summer admitted. She needed Marissa. But she couldn't "ruin" Marissa's Valentine's Day. "Can you come over?"
"I'm already on my way," Pete said, grabbing his keys. "Stay put until I get there, okay?"
"Thanks," Summer replied, hanging up. God, Pete was nice. Then she went into the living room to sob on her couch. What had been her and Seth's couch.
Pete sped to Summer's house. He had gotten the address from the concierge at the hotel he was staying in. He hoped she wasn't hurt. What could be wrong?
The drive wasn't too long and Pete soon arrived at Summer's. It certainly helped that he was going 75 in a 40 mph zone. He rang the doorbell, and stared anxiously at the door until Summer came to open it. As soon as Summer opened the door, she crumbled in Pete's arms. This came as a surprise to Pete. A good surprise, though.
Summer's face was blotchy and her eyes were red from crying. Pete thought she still looked beautiful. Yep, he was head over heels for her.
"What's wrong?" Pete asked, as Summer led him into the living room. He marveled at the huge mansion with its contemporary furnishings. A professional had obviously decorated it. He wondered if the Newport Group had designed the house. Probably.
"I-I went to the door," Summer began, and stopped as the tears rendered her speechless. Pete rubbed her shaking back until the tears subsided. For the most part. "And-and it was a delivery guy. With flowers."
Pete nodded, but he was totally confused. And partly jealous as well. Who was sending Summer flowers? She had told Pete that she wasn't seeing anyone, and hadn't gone out with anyone either.
"When I looked at the card, they were from," Summer paused, "Seth," her voice was now down to a whisper.
Pete looked at her with love and compassion. Anger was burning in his eyes. Who would do this to Summer? And why? "Oh, Summer," was all Pete could say.
Summer buried her head in his chest. Sure, his shirt was getting soaked, but Summer needed him. And Pete was determined to be there for her. Even if their relationship was only a friendship.
"Do you want something to eat?" Pete asked. He knew that girls loved comfort food. And he suspected that Summer hadn't eaten anything that morning. He slowly stood up, not wanting to disrupt the head-on-chest thing Summer had going on. The kitchen was easy enough to find. Pete opened the stainless steel refrigerator and surveyed its contents. His eyes rested on a pint of chocolate ice cream. Pete rummaged through the drawers until he found the hot chocolate. He made some as quickly as possible, and brought it and the container of ice cream to Summer.
Summer had dozed off; crying always left her weary. Pete smiled at the sight, and covered her with the blanket that was strewn on the floor. He brought the ice cream and hot chocolate back to the kitchen, not wanting the ice cream to melt and knowing that he could re-heat the hot chocolate later.
A few hours later...
Summer was still sleeping like a baby on the couch. Pete called Ryan and informed him of the situation. His specific orders were not to tell Marissa until the next day. Summer had woken up briefly before and muttered something about not telling Marissa on Valentine's Day. So at least Marissa would be alerted and could bring her best-friend comforting skills the day after.
After talking to Ryan, Pete picked up the newspaper he found on the kitchen table and settled in to read its contents. He wasn't going anywhere until reinforcements (i.e. Marissa and Ryan) arrived.
He was still furious with whoever had done this to Summer. One, because he didn't want Summer to be distraught. She had obviously gone through so much trauma already. Two, because this would probably put all hopes of a romance with Summer far into the future.
The newspaper turned out to be from the day before. Pete sighed and turned on the small TV, which was built into the wall in the kitchen. He made sure that the volume was turned down so that Summer wouldn't hear it and wake up. Pete hoped she stayed asleep for quite a while. He couldn't bear to see tears fall from that pretty face.
A/N: Here's the second part...enjoy!
Loneliness & The Plane Ride – Part 2
Summer, as much as she tried to resist it, was letting her guard down with Pete. She hadn't felt this open with a man in a long time—since Seth, to be specific. Pete was different than the other guys she'd met since Seth's death. The others were anxious to get a piece of Summer. They were into the physical aspect of a relationship with Summer, while Pete seemed genuinely nice and interested in her. He didn't seem to be interested in her just because she had a killer body and was beautiful. It was a nice change. Maybe that's why Summer was comfortable?
"Attention passengers: Flight 818 to Los Angeles will be landing at LAX in about 20 minutes. Thank you and enjoy the remainder of your flight," the pilot announced.
Pete stretched. The long flight had flown by while he got to know Summer better. She was a really sweet woman, not to mention the fact that she was drop-dead gorgeous. He could see that she was still hurting from her husband's death. Plus, he didn't like to rush into things. So for now he would try to be her friend. Summer looked like she could use a few more guy friends.
"It was nice getting to know you," Pete started. Summer groaned inside. Here was the part where Pete would ask her out and she would politely decline. "I'd like to have coffee with you while I'm in Newport. As your friend."
Summer's heart leaped. Pete was possibly the first guy to want to just be her friend. What a nice guy. She was liking him more and more. As a friend, of course.
"That sounds good," Summer answered, and Pete smiled. He hadn't expected her to say yes. He guessed it was because of the friend part. "Here's my number. Just call me when you're in Newport."
As they exited the plane, Summer scribbled her number on a piece of paper. She handed it to Pete and hugged him. This wasn't so bad. She could always use another friend.
"Bye, Summer," Pete called, as he headed towards the baggage claim. Summer, notorious for over-packing, had not over packed for once. All she had was her rolling Louis Vuitton, which she had brought on the plane with her. That, and a garment bag for her suits. Oh, and her Louis Vuitton purse. But that was it. And for Summer, that was not a lot at all.
Summer found her car in the parking garage and loaded her stuff into it. She drove home, and collapsed into bed when she arrived at her sprawling mansion. She hadn't realized just how tired she was.
Two weeks later...
Summer sighed. Lately, she had been overwhelmed with work. She decided to go home early. Actually, very early, considering it was only 1:30 and she normally worked until at least 5.
"Luke?" Summer knocked on the door to his office, which was conveniently located next to hers.
"Hi Summer," Luke waved her in. "What's up?"
"I think I'm going to take the rest of the day off. It's been so hectic lately, I just need a few hours to myself," Summer said. She felt a little bad making Luke do all the work, but hey, she had been through a lot. And Luke didn't mind. After all, he had two kids at home and another on the way. His house was always bustling.
Summer drove home and checked the messages on the answering machine. Pete had said he'd be in town around Valentine's day, and it was the 12th.
"Hi, Summer? It's Pete. We met on the plane. Well, I've been in meetings all week but I'm free tomorrow. The 13th. I guess I'll catch you later, here's my number..." Summer grinned as she heard Pete's voice. Looks like she found a friend.
She picked up the phone and dialed Pete's number.
"Hello?" Pete said.
"Hey, it's Summer. I just got your message," Summer smiled.
"Oh, good. Do you want to meet up tomorrow?" Pete asked hopefully.
"Sure. How is 3:30? Do you want to meet at the Starbucks in the Corona Del Mar Plaza?" Summer suggested. She could get almost a full day's worth of shopping in, and then meet up with Pete.
"Okay. Don't give up if I'm a few minutes late. I'm not exactly sure where that is," Pete laughed. "I'll see you tomorrow."
"Bye," Summer said, hanging up. She couldn't wait to see Pete.
The next day...
Summer walked into Starbucks 15 minutes early. She was exhausted from shopping. After so many years of Seth carrying her bags, she wasn't used to carrying them herself. To her surprise, Pete was already waiting for her, latte in hand.
"Hey," Summer exclaimed. "You're early!"
Pete grinned nervously. "I wanted to make sure I got here in time. This place was easier to find than I expected."
Summer got in line to order her drink, a white mocha latte. When she got it she sat down at the little table Pete had saved.
"So, how did the meetings with Ryan go?" Summer asked between sips of the piping hot drink.
"Great. He's a very talented young man. My partners want me to stay in town for a few more days. I'll be flying down here a lot in the next few months," Pete informed her.
Summer's heart leaped. It was totally placid though. She was just excited at the prospect of hanging out with a new friend. "We'll have to meet up again, then," Summer forced herself to say.
Pete's ears perked up. Did she just say what he thought she just said. "I'm sorry, what did you say?"
"I said, we'll have to meet up again, then," Summer repeated, feeling heat rush to her cheeks. Was that the wrong thing to say? She didn't want to lead him on.
"Definitely," Pete took a sip of his drink.
They talked for another hour, and then Summer realized she was supposed to meet Marissa for a girls' night. "I just realized I'm supposed to meet someone."
Pete's hope washed away. Someone? "Oh," he said slowly.
Summer read Pete's thoughts. "My best friend Marissa and I try to catch up at least once a week."
And the tide brought Pete's hope rushing back. "That's nice," he replied, cheering up.
"She's Ryan's wife," Summer added.
"Tall, pretty, light brown hair?" Pete asked. "Ryan has a few pictures of her in his office."
Summer smiled. "That's her."
They hugged and went their separate ways. Summer drove home and took a quick shower before Marissa came over. She threw on Juicy pants and a white Petit Bateau tank top. She had just settled down on the couch with a pint of Ben & Jerry's when the doorbell rang.
"Hey," Marissa hugged Summer. "How are you?"
"Better," Summer sniffed. Earlier, she had come across an old picture of her and Seth from high school. That led to a few fallen tears.
"Are you ready for our girls' night?" Marissa asked, walking into the living room. She spotted the ice cream. "You started without me!"
"Sorry," Summer shrugged. "I couldn't wait." Marissa kicked off her heels and settled in on the couch. Summer joined her.
"So how did the Chicago meeting go? I know it was 2 weeks ago, but you never told me," Marissa asked, while Summer flipped the channels to see what was on Pay-Per-View.
"It was fine," Summer contemplated telling Marissa about Pete. Marissa would be thrilled that Summer was making "friends." But for some reason she couldn't let Marissa into this part of her life. Not yet.
Two pints of Ben & Jerry's, one large pizza, and a few cans of Corona later, Marissa and Summer were all partied out. They had watched "Heartbreakers", "Heathers," and "Clueless." Summer yawned.
Marissa said she should be going. Summer walked her to the door. "Thanks, Marissa. I really needed this," she whispered, burying her head in Marissa's shoulder. Marissa had a knack for making Summer forget about all of her problems. Including Seth. Not that he was a problem.
The next day...
Summer woke up as the phone rang. She looked over at the clock. 9:30. Who would be calling this early? Well, technically, it wasn't early, but most people who knew Summer knew not to call before 10:30 on the weekend.
"Yeah?" Summer answered the phone, not bothering to say hello.
"Summer? It's Pete, did I wake you up?" Pete sounded concerned.
"Well, actually, you did, but it's okay," Summer replied, yawning. Just then the doorbell rang. The chimes echoed throughout Summer's large, empty mansion. "Can you hold on a sec?"
Throwing on slippers, Summer ran downstairs to get the door. When she opened it, there was a deliveryman holding a large bouquet of pink and white roses. Summer's heart stopped. They were the same combination that Seth bought her every year. But they obviously couldn't be from Seth. Had Pete done this? Summer hoped not. She knew she wasn't open to that kind of relationship right now, and up until then she had thought he knew this too.
"Delivery for a Summer Cohen," the man announced, holding out his clipboard for her to sign.
Summer scribbled her signature on the dotted line and took the flowers from the man. He tipped his hat to her and walked back to his car. She shut the door and slowly walked into the kitchen, breathing in the fresh, sweet smell of the roses. Carefully, Summer reached into the bouquet and grabbed the card. She gasped and almost fainted when she read it.
Summer-
Happy Valentine's Day. I love you more than anything and I always will. You mean the world to me, and these flowers are a symbol of my everlasting love. Every day I thank God for bringing you into my life.
Love,
Seth
Summer's eyes narrowed as the first tears began to fall. What kind of sick joke was this? Who would want to hurt her? As she sank into a chair, she realized that she'd left Pete on the phone. Of course, there was a phone in the kitchen, so Summer reached for it.
"Pete?" Summer choked out between tears.
"Summer, are you okay?" Pete instantly became worried. "Who was at the door?"
"N-No," Summer admitted. She needed Marissa. But she couldn't "ruin" Marissa's Valentine's Day. "Can you come over?"
"I'm already on my way," Pete said, grabbing his keys. "Stay put until I get there, okay?"
"Thanks," Summer replied, hanging up. God, Pete was nice. Then she went into the living room to sob on her couch. What had been her and Seth's couch.
Pete sped to Summer's house. He had gotten the address from the concierge at the hotel he was staying in. He hoped she wasn't hurt. What could be wrong?
The drive wasn't too long and Pete soon arrived at Summer's. It certainly helped that he was going 75 in a 40 mph zone. He rang the doorbell, and stared anxiously at the door until Summer came to open it. As soon as Summer opened the door, she crumbled in Pete's arms. This came as a surprise to Pete. A good surprise, though.
Summer's face was blotchy and her eyes were red from crying. Pete thought she still looked beautiful. Yep, he was head over heels for her.
"What's wrong?" Pete asked, as Summer led him into the living room. He marveled at the huge mansion with its contemporary furnishings. A professional had obviously decorated it. He wondered if the Newport Group had designed the house. Probably.
"I-I went to the door," Summer began, and stopped as the tears rendered her speechless. Pete rubbed her shaking back until the tears subsided. For the most part. "And-and it was a delivery guy. With flowers."
Pete nodded, but he was totally confused. And partly jealous as well. Who was sending Summer flowers? She had told Pete that she wasn't seeing anyone, and hadn't gone out with anyone either.
"When I looked at the card, they were from," Summer paused, "Seth," her voice was now down to a whisper.
Pete looked at her with love and compassion. Anger was burning in his eyes. Who would do this to Summer? And why? "Oh, Summer," was all Pete could say.
Summer buried her head in his chest. Sure, his shirt was getting soaked, but Summer needed him. And Pete was determined to be there for her. Even if their relationship was only a friendship.
"Do you want something to eat?" Pete asked. He knew that girls loved comfort food. And he suspected that Summer hadn't eaten anything that morning. He slowly stood up, not wanting to disrupt the head-on-chest thing Summer had going on. The kitchen was easy enough to find. Pete opened the stainless steel refrigerator and surveyed its contents. His eyes rested on a pint of chocolate ice cream. Pete rummaged through the drawers until he found the hot chocolate. He made some as quickly as possible, and brought it and the container of ice cream to Summer.
Summer had dozed off; crying always left her weary. Pete smiled at the sight, and covered her with the blanket that was strewn on the floor. He brought the ice cream and hot chocolate back to the kitchen, not wanting the ice cream to melt and knowing that he could re-heat the hot chocolate later.
A few hours later...
Summer was still sleeping like a baby on the couch. Pete called Ryan and informed him of the situation. His specific orders were not to tell Marissa until the next day. Summer had woken up briefly before and muttered something about not telling Marissa on Valentine's Day. So at least Marissa would be alerted and could bring her best-friend comforting skills the day after.
After talking to Ryan, Pete picked up the newspaper he found on the kitchen table and settled in to read its contents. He wasn't going anywhere until reinforcements (i.e. Marissa and Ryan) arrived.
He was still furious with whoever had done this to Summer. One, because he didn't want Summer to be distraught. She had obviously gone through so much trauma already. Two, because this would probably put all hopes of a romance with Summer far into the future.
The newspaper turned out to be from the day before. Pete sighed and turned on the small TV, which was built into the wall in the kitchen. He made sure that the volume was turned down so that Summer wouldn't hear it and wake up. Pete hoped she stayed asleep for quite a while. He couldn't bear to see tears fall from that pretty face.