Chapter Ten – Bridge Over Troubled Water

'Sail on Silver Girl,
Sail on by
Your time has come to shine
All your dreams are on their way
See how they shine
If you need a friend
I'm sailing right behind
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will ease your mind' – Simon and Garfunkel

December, 2007 – Christmas

"I can't believe he gave you an engagement ring for Christmas Eve! That is probably the most romantic thing I've ever heard in my whole life! I am so excited – and only a little jealous – of you!"

"Well, I certainly think so, and I'll be sure to pass the message on to him that you approve. And now I have a very big favor to ask you."

"Anything!"

"Will you be my maid of honor?"

"Oh, my God, Karen! I would love to!" I squeal, jumping up and down, "This is so awesome!"

"Oh, honey, thank you! You know that I love you so much, and to have you stand up with me would just be wonderful. You are like a daughter to me, after all. I would appreciate it so much!"

"So, I obviously can assume that Lucas will be Keith's best man, right?"

She grins, "Of course you can. And Deb is going to walk down the aisle with Eric and hold him for the ceremony. So, everyone I love will be involved."

"I am so happy for you," I tell her, pulling her into another hug. "Lucas must be thrilled beyond belief for you two!"

"We haven't told him yet, actually," she sighs, and I gape at her. "We want to tell him in person, so if you could not mention it, I'd really appreciate that."

I hate the idea of keeping this secret from him, but it really isn't my place to tell so I shrug and nod. "Yeah, but when are you going to tell him?"

"Soon. Keith also surprised me with plane tickets to go see his games in Memphis next week. So, we'll tell him then."

"He's going to love it," I tell her confidently. "You know, I was thinking of getting Brooke and Tim or Jason to drive over with me. It's a ways over, but it'd be fun and who doesn't want to take a road trip once in awhile? Plus, its Christmas and I haven't seen Luke in months, so I would really love to see him soon."

She grins at me. "Well, I know Lucas would love to see you there, and I would also be delighted if you were there. You should come, we could all go out to a celebratory dinner together."

"I'll see if I can talk at least one of them into it!" I enthuse, suddenly thinking that would be a great idea. I think Jason will come if he can, but he's in Raleigh right now with his family for Christmas. For once my parents actually stayed in Tree Hill – oh, not for me, but because one of my sisters is back here for a vacation, or else I would've been there with him. I wish I was were there with him, actually.

"You do that. Now, I know that you have better, more fun places to be, so you should get moving, honey."

"Thank you for letting me stop by," I smile, "Tell Eric and Keith I love them and I'm sorry I missed them."

"They love you, too," she laughs, "And so do I. Thank you for Eric's present, he'll love it. Whatever it is."

"Congratulation, Karen!" I shout as I run down the driveway. It is freezing out here, and I want to get in my car as quickly as possible.

My next stop is Deb and Dan's place. I don't know why I felt compelled to get them something, but I did. Maybe because Dan gave me such a good deal on the car, maybe because Deb has always been so great to me, and maybe because I know it will make Nathan happy. No matter, though, I've done it, and I'm glad. I know they'll love this.

I knock on the door, shivering on the porch. "Haley?" Dan smiles when he sees me, "Were we expecting you?"

"No," I smile back, gratefully stepping inside as he holds open the door, "I just wanted to stop by and wish you and Deb a Merry Christmas."

"Well, come on in, Deb is in the kitchen right now."

"Thanks! So, how are you guys doing?" I ask as we walk through their massive house to the kitchen.

"Oh, we're fine. We miss Nathan, of course, but since we know he's probably having fun with his team and not missing us, we're trying not to let it bother us."

I smile. We walk into the kitchen, and Deb looks up, grinning at me. "Haley! Hi honey, how are you?"

"I'm great," I grin, "I just stopped by to say Merry Christmas and to drop this off." I hand her the package I've put together for them. "It's for both of you."

They look at me in surprise, but open it. Deb gasps when she realizes what it is. "Oh, Haley, how did you – oh, my, this is the nicest thing I've ever gotten," she sniffs, starting to cry. Dan is looking at it in awe. "We don't have anything like it at all!"

"I just – I thought you guys would really like this, and well, I have all these pictures, and I thought it would be nice to put them to good use," I tell them, smiling proudly of my work.

"It's beautiful," Dan smiles, finally looking up from the pages, "I – you have a real knack for this kind of thing."

"Well, maybe I can make it through the Interior Design program at Duke after all," I joke, but then get serious, "I'm glad you like it, though. I um, I guessed you didn't have many pictures of Luke around, and probably none of both Nathan and Luke actually together, and since I have tons of them, I thought it'd be nice to share them. I sent both of them one, too."

"I love it," Deb smiles, still sniffling. She wraps her arms around me, hugging me. "Thank you so much."

"Yes, thank you," Dan says, "I'm just amazed at this. I don't think I've ever been given a better gift – well, besides getting second chances with the boys."

"I am so glad you guys like it! I hope Luke and Nathan appreciate it as much as you guys do, although I'm guessing twenty year old guys aren't the demographic that is really looking for the sentimental value in things," I laugh.

I really am touched by how much they like the scrapbooks. I wanted to do something really nice for them, something that they wouldn't expect, and I'm glad I accomplished it.

"It is beyond amazing," Deb enthuses, finally getting past the tears, "And if you are half as good at interior design, well, then I guess we know who will be decorating for us from now on."

I laugh. "I'm just glad you like," I tell them graciously, "And thank you for bolstering my design confidence."

I stay for a glass of eggnog with them, and chat some more – they fill me in more on what it was like to see Nathan and Luke play against each other for the first time in forever. Dan practically bursts with pride when he talks about having dinner with them after the game, and I've never seen Deb so happy. I guess Nathan and Luke just had the greatest time hanging out together, which is pretty much what Luke already told me.

I thank them for the eggnog, and let them fuss over the scrapbook a little longer, and then I make my excuses, needing to get to Brooke's to exchange gifts with her and Tim. We're just going to hang out there for the rest of the day, and just loaf around. I spent this morning with my parents and sister, and that's more than enough considering the time they spend with me is so minimal.

Tim's car isn't here, so I get the good spot in the driveway, closest to the door. I race inside, not even bothering to knock.

"Tigger?" I holler as I walk in, "Where are you?"

"Kitchen," she yells back. I drop my packages off in the living room under the tree that she, Tim and I picked out and decorated, and then skip off to find her. It's odd that I am in such a good mood in some ways, since I am really missing Jason today.

''Hey," I greet as I walk in. She's arranging food on trays, and I know immediately that one of the housekeepers did it for her. "What's going on?"

"Not much, just getting things ready for our little group Christmas," she replies, smiling at me. "I'm glad you guys are going to be here with me."

"There's nowhere else I would rather be," I insist, smiling.

"Liar. I know you wish you could've gone with Jason and gotten spoiled by his family some more," she laughs.

"That's not true! You know I love spending time with you and Timmy boy; you guys are like family to me now!" I realize just how true that is now. They are family to me. There is no better word for what they are to me.

"Aw, really? Tutor Girl, that's so sweet!"

I hug her. "It's true, I love you guys."

Of course, Tim walks in now, when we are hugging and professing our love. "I knew you two would get it on eventually," he brags, thinking he's onto something.

"Tim, you brainless pervert," Brooke begins as she pulls him into our hug, "Why we tolerate you, I'll never know."

"Because I'm so cute, obviously."

Brooke and I both laugh, and just hug him harder at his wounded look. "Did you bring us good presents?" Brooke asks him.

"I might've," he grins, "What'd ya get me?"

"Nothing," I laugh, "I'm sure you've been a naughty boy this year. No presents for you."

He pouts. "Hey, I'd like to think I've been pretty good this year. For me, at least. I want my presents."

"You're such a baby, Timmy," Brooke laughs.

"Yeah, like you wouldn't be griping if you were told you didn't get any presents," he points out, not really wrong. "You'd be whining and crying and possibly getting violent over it."

"Would not!" she laughs, smacking him lightly on the arm.

"You lie like a dog," I tell her, laughing with them, "Tigger, you'd be crying your eyes out and like Tim said, probably hitting one or both of us."

"Shut up! You two are mean!" she mock pouts.

"Aw," Tim sighs, pulling her into another hug, "We love you, Brookie Wookie."

"Call me that again, and I'll rip your balls off," she threatens. He blanches, still not sure if Brooke's threats are idle or not. "Yeah, that's what I thought," she nods.

"Okay, children, let's take this food into the movie room and watch 'The Grinch'." They both groan at my suggestion. "Hey, I love that movie!"

"Make your boyfriend watch it then," Tim grumbles, "Let's watch something that doesn't totally suck."

"It doesn't suck! It's cute, and it's funny!"

Brooke rolls her eyes. "I'd like to see something that features shirtless men. Is that too much to ask?"

"Yes," Tim asserts, "That is way too much to ask. Although if you're willing to turn the heat up a little bit, I'll go shirtless."

"It'll be a cold day in hell when I want to see your naked chest," Brooke sighs.

"Well, I'll still be glad to see yours," Tim jokes, grinning when Brooke's face turns bright red.

"Oh, my God, I'm going to get the presents," I yell at them. I stomp out of the room and grab all the presents we've gotten for each other. Why I'm so irritable right now, I have no idea, but their endless arguing over everything – which usually amuses me – is driving me to the point of distraction right now.

I stomp back in the room with my armload of presents. "Haley," Brooke starts, moving to take some of the presents out of my arms, "We're sorry. I mean, you know this is just how we are."

I nod, feeling badly for being so touchy and grumpy all of a sudden. "No, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have gotten so rude and snappy at you guys, I don't know what's wrong with me." I burst into tears all of a sudden.

"Honey, what's wrong?" Brooke asks, wrapping her arms around me.

"I don't know," I wail, seriously feeling lost all of a sudden. "I just – I miss Jason, and my parents are driving me crazy, and – and – "

"Hey, don't you love us?" Tim asks, trying to joke in order to get me to smile, "We're here, and we love you."

I nod. "I love you guys, too. I don't know why I'm being like this right now. Guess I'm just a mess right now."

"You're allowed to sometimes," Brooke grins, "Besides, next time Tim and I act all ass-y, we have something to hold over your head now! How could this be anything but a really good thing?"

"You guys are too much," I smile, finally laughing, "And I am sorry. I didn't mean to freak out on you."

They nod, Brooke adding, "Hey, really, it is okay. We love you. Now, let's take these back in and open them in front of the tree. You know, like normal families do!"

"Tim is the only one who might know from normal," I point out, since neither Brooke nor I are experienced in normal, healthy family relations.

"No families are ever normal," he retorts, "There is always something there, no matter how normal they seem."

"Oooh, so what are your deep, dark family secrets?" I ask, "And if you don't tell me, I'll ask Jase. I have ways of getting it out of him!"

"Go Tutor Girl," Brooke laughs while Tim makes a face.

"You know, I don't need reminders that you are sleeping with a family member of mine, alright?"

"Aw, you don't know for sure that we're sleeping together," I laugh.

"Jesus, I'm not that dumb. I saw the bruise on his jaw. That was a sex bruise. And the merry go round? Seriously, even I can pick up on that shit."

"I'm almost afraid to ask, but what on earth is a sex bruise? Or should I ask how one goes about identifying them?"

"Oh, I can answer this," Brooke jumps in, "Sex bruises – or injuries, if you will – are obviously those incurred in the throes of passion. They are easily identifiable by the telltale blushing and extreme concern from the significant other. They are often found in the form of scratches or bite marks, but have also been known to show up as bruises from limbs that flail a little too out of control."

"Oh, my God," I tell her, "I think I've heard enough. Why do I get the feeling that you could probably write your dissertation on this subject, Brooke?"

She giggles. "Well, I do what I can," she says modestly, "Can I help it if I'm knowledgeable in sex?"

I shake my head. "You should write a book or something."

"Yeah, I should," she laughs, "It could probably be a best seller. I'd be world famous, and then I'd have all the guys in the world, which would be like research for a follow-up book! This is perfect, I have to do this!"

"Calm down, Brookie," Tim laughs, "I think she was kidding. There are about a bazillion of those sex books out there."

She sighs dramatically. "Well, fine, maybe the world isn't ready yet for my views on sex anyways. I'm very progressive. Like Madonna."

I snort, "Shut up, Tigger." I can't help but laugh. I feel immensely better, thanks to these two. I don't know what I'd do without them.

"It's true!" she defends, and Tim and I laugh.

My phone rings, and I nearly jump out of my skin. I glance at the caller ID. "Unidentified," I sigh, not wanting to talk really, but curious as to who it is.

"Take it upstairs," Brooke suggests, "We'll open presents when you come back down."

"Thanks," I smile, jogging up the stairs. "Hello?"

"Haley J?"

"Nathan, hi," I say, surprised. "Um, Merry Christmas!"

"Hey yourself," he says, and I can hear the smile in his voice, "I was just thinking of you. How's your Christmas going so far?"

"It's okay. My parents are here for a change, along with one of my sisters. Which is of course why they're here, so whatever."

"Oh, baby, I'm sorry. Can I call them up and give them a piece of my mind for you?" he asks sweetly.

"No, I'm okay. I'm at Brooke's, and she, Tim, and I are having our own little family Christmas. We'll have fun. What about you? What are you doing? Second Christmas away from home," I point out.

He sighs, "Yeah, I miss you all. It definitely sucks to be here on this stupid, deserted campus, but I guess it'll be worth it. Anyway, how can I complain when I get to play college ball, right?"

"I think you're entitled to a little complaining," I tell him gently, "You're far away from home on Christmas. You miss your family, and we miss you."

"You miss me?" he asks.

"I always miss you, Nathan. You mean a lot to me. No one can make me laugh quite the way you can."

"Thanks, I think I needed to hear that."

I knew he did. "Well, it's true. You're important to me, Nathan, and I miss you and I hate that you're alone right now."

"Well, I'm not really alone," he sighs, "There are some guys from the team here, too, and I think we're going to a party tonight with some of the other teams that are stuck here."

"Maybe you'll find a cute girl from one of the women's teams to hook up with," I joke with him.

"Yeah, that'll happen," he snorts, "I have no interest in hooking up with anyone. Here, I mean."

"Oooh, is there someone back at school?" I ask, surprised at how easy it is to banter with him about this. Even a month ago, it would've been horrible, and I'd have probably ended up saying something stupid to piss him so he'd hang up on me, but now it's just comfortable.

He laughs. "Nah, I'm pathetically single. The guys on the team keep trying to hook me up, as does my roommate, but I don't know, I'm doing so well in school and basketball that I don't want to mess with anything."

"Oh, Nathan, you should stay open to possibilities. You never know when you'll meet someone perfect."

He laughs, and it is tinged with bitterness, but neither of us comment on it. "Well, I'm just not interested right now."

"Living the life of a monk, huh?" I tease.

"Now, I didn't say that," he teases back.

"Oooh, Nathan Scott, what sorts of trouble have you been getting into? You taking advantage of all those basketball groupies?" I laugh.

He laughs, too. "You make it sound like there are hundreds of them. Besides, they aren't – I don't know, there's just nothing there. Anyways, what about you? How's Pretty Boy? He treating you right still, or do I need to fly up there and kick his ass?"

"He's a perfect gentleman," I confirm, laughing. Somehow talking about all this with Nathan doesn't feel painful and awkward anymore. Sure, there is definitely still something between us, but it has become easier to set aside and focus on the positive.

"Yeah, right," he snorts, "I know that type. He might seem all gentlemanly or whatever, but I bet he's a real freak. Uh, that's not an invitation to fill me in because there are some things I want to pretend don't exist."

"Nathan," I start.

"No, Hales, it's okay. I mean, it sucks, but you're with him, and I can accept it. I don't like it, and I won't lie and say I didn't wish it were me instead, but still." I can hear the yearning in his voice.

"Oh, Nathan, we were doing so well." I sigh, frustrated.

He sighs. "You're right, I'm sorry. It's just – no, nevermind. So, what else has been going on? Talked to Luke lately?"

I smile at his change of subject. "That was very diplomatic of you," I joke, "And it has been about a week since I've caught up with Luke. But I am trying to talk someone into driving to Memphis with me for his tournament there. You know, you should tell your school to schedule more games closer to here, and maybe I'd come see you play, too."

"I'll tell them, and I'm sure they'll take it under advisement," he laughs, "But that's good that you might get to go see Luke. He was telling me just the other day that he was missing 'his Hales'. He broke up with that girl he was seeing."

"He broke up with another girl? Geez, he runs through them like they're shoes or something. He's always so excited about them in the beginning, but then they fizzle. Weird."

"I don't know, it's almost like he's trying to replace someone, but I can't figure out who. It's not like – well, it's just weird. Maybe he's lonely."

"I hope not," I sigh, "But I wish he'd stop running through the female population of UM so quickly. He's going to get a reputation or something."

He laughs, "He might already have one. I mean, he's been there a year and a half now, so I'd say that's plenty of time to gain a reputation."

"And you would know, wouldn't you?"

"Hey, I'm practically a monk here, remember?" he laughs.

"I didn't mean now, I meant high school. You know you had quite the reputation for being a ladies man."

He snorts. "Well, it wasn't entirely deserved, you know that."

I laugh, "I know, but it is still fun to tease you about it!"

"Yeah, you'd think so, wouldn't you?"

"Yeah, I would. I miss you, Nathan, I really do," I say softly, really feeling it. "Christmas isn't the same without you."

"I miss you, too, Haley J. Hey, my mom called and told me what you did for them. Thank you, that was really awesome."

"Oh, it was nothing," I demure, "I'm just glad they liked it so much. I thought your dad was going to cry."

"Yeah, Mom said he was really overwhelmed by it. He doesn't have many pictures of Luke, so that was really cool of you."

"Well, I sent you one, too. It's a little different – there are pictures of the gang and all in addition to you and Luke. I think you'll like it."

"I'm sure I'll love it," he promises. "Haley J? Baby, I got to go. The guys are dragging me with them to a movie, and it's time to go."

"Thank you for calling, Nate. Merry Christmas."

"You, too. Love you."

"Love you, too," I whisper, sighing as he hangs up.

I shake my head, wondering how I can still feel so connected to him even after all this time. That is just incredible to me. We are undeniably far apart right now, both physically and mentally, but emotionally we are always on the same page.

Brushing these thoughts off, I head back downstairs to hang out with Tim and Brooke more. "Hey, I hope you two are behaving yourselves," I call as I step back into the living room where the tree is.

"Aren't we always?" Brooke says, sweet as sugar. "I mean, hello, it's Tim and I, and if we aren't sugar and spice and all that shit, then I don't know what is!"

Even Tim has to roll his eyes at that. "Shut up, Brooke," he says in a friendly tone, so she doesn't smack him for once. "Come on, let's trade presents now."

"Like a kid in a damn candy store," I laugh, "Seriously, Smith, isn't it time to project a calm exterior towards presents?"

He shakes his head. "Never!"

Brooke grins. "I'm with Timmy on this one, it is never time to grow up when it comes to Christmas presents!"

I stare at her. "Now, what is this? I thought you hated Christmas with the fire of a thousand suns?"

"Well, sure, I hate Christmas on the principle that it is a holiday, and holidays suck. But dang, I love Christmas presents!" she squeals, "Now, come on, let's open them!"

"Two kids in a candy store," I laugh, kind of getting excited for presents, too. Last year was weird because I was still getting to know Tim and Brooke. Now, I know them better than I know myself, and so it is even more fun to spend the holidays with them.

Tim jumps up and starts passing out presents. Brooke, apparently too lazy or just that dissociated with holidays, has used sparkly pastel colored paper with stars and ribbons all over it. It is really pretty, but decidedly lacking in any holiday festivity.

"This one is for you, James," Tim says, tossing me something wrapped in Santa in his underwear. This one is obviously from Tim.

"Hmm, Santa in his skivvies is kinda hot," Brooke jokes, "Thanks for the porn material, Timmy."

"Shit," he laughs.

"Okay, let's open one," I suggest once Tim has passed them all out. "Just one at a time, though!"

Brooke squeals. "Let's go!" I laugh as they tear into the paper, and I join them, ripping it open as fast as I can to catch up to them.

"Brooke, this is awesome," Tim enthuses, pulling out what I'm sure is a really expensive, really beautiful watch.

"You like it?" she asks as she digs into one of the things I've brought for her.

"Love it," he confirms, inspecting it closely.

"Oooh, Tim, this is wonderful," I grin, amazed that he found something so perfect for me, "I can't believe you remembered! Where'd you find it?"

"EBay," he confesses with an embarrassed grin, "I'm glad you like it. I was pretty sure you would, but nothing is one hundred percent, you know?"

"I love it!" I jump over the coffee to hug him. "I can't believe you remember I loved Strawberry Shortcake when I was little. And this charm bracelet, wow," I marvel, "You're amazing."

"You're not the first girl to tell me that," he winks, laughing.

"Tutor Girl! How did you know I wanted this?" Brooke asks, laughing and holding up the copy of 'A Child's Garden of Verses' that I'd bought for her. It's a second edition, but it is a book that her grandmother used to read to her when she was a child. I actually stumbled upon it when I was looking for something for Karen at an antique shop.

"Hey, if Tim can remember I liked Strawberry Shortcake, then I can remember your favorite childhood book!"

"I'll choose to ignore that insult," Tim laughs good-naturedly.

"Well, I really love it, Tutor Girl, thank you," she says through a few tears.

We all open the rest of our presents, oohing and aahing as necessary. We have fun joking and teasing each other, and laughing at some of the silly items we picked out for each other. Eventually, though, Tim has to leave to go back to his parent's house where some of his father's family has gathered. Of course, this just makes me wish that Jase's side of the family was here, but you can't always get what you want.

Brooke takes a phone call from her parents, so I take the opportunity to call Jason to see how he'd feel about driving to Memphis for Luke's games next week.

"Hello?"

"Lola? Hi, it's Haley. How are you?"

"Haley!" she exclaims, "I was wondering when I'd hear from you! I'm great, how are you? Having a great Christmas?"

"It's okay, I spent the afternoon with Brooke and Tim and the morning delivering presents to a few friends of mine. How's the holiday going for all of you?"

"Oh, wonderful. You know us, though," she laughs, "Always a big production, and someone will probably end up in tears. By the way, my mom looooved the angel figurine you sent. She couldn't believe that you noticed she collected them. Or did Jason tell? He swears up and down he didn't, but you can tell me if he did."

I laugh, now really wishing I was there. I'm beginning to really love the whole vibe of Jason's family. "No, he didn't tell me. I noticed them when Brooke and I snuck off to the study to have a girl to girl chat." I groan at my words. "See, now Tim has me thinking like a pervert because all I could think of was what his reaction would be to me saying anything about girl on girl."

Lola laughs. "Hah, men. Well, we all miss you. Especially my sad sac brother. I think he's chomping at the bit to get out of here and back to you. If you weren't so awesome, I'd probably be ticked off!"

"Aw, want me to kick his ass and knock some sense into him?"

"Hey, if you think it'll help, by all means, go right ahead," she encourages. "So, I guess he's the one you really want to talk to, right?"

"Well, you know it isn't that I don't want to talk to you, it's just that Brooke will probably be off the phone, and I want to talk to Jase before she's ready to talk again."

"No problem, I'll pass you on. Great talking to you!"

"You, too. I'll give you a call soon when we can talk uninterrupted!" I laugh. I can hear her teasing Jason in the background as she passes off the phone to him.

"Hey baby," he says into the phone, his voice low and intimate for me, "I was just thinking of you."

"Great minds, I guess," I smile, "I miss you."

He laughs. "I miss you, too. My bed here is lonely without you, and I can't drive through this town without thinking of that merry go round. You ruined Raleigh for me," he jokes.

"Aw, my poor honey. I'll have to go with you next time so we can un-ruin it. So, how's your Christmas going? Lola made it sound like it was fun."

"Yeah, it's been okay. Mom loved the angel you sent; I thought she was going to cry, actually. So thank you for making her smile."

"Oh, I'm so glad she liked it! Do you know how hard it is to pick out a present for your boyfriend's mother?" I laugh, "It's a little nerve-wracking."

"You did good, baby. How're things going at Brooke's?"

"Oh, they're good. I had a meltdown earlier. They were fighting like they always do, and I just snapped. I don't know what my problem was, but I settled down and we had a good time opening presents."

"You freaked out?" he laughs, "I'm sorry I wasn't there to distract you."

"Me, too!" I admit, "I wish I was with you right now."

"Are we getting sappy?" he laughs.

"Oh, Jase, when are we not?"

"Good point. Ugh, baby, Riss is banging down the door hollering at me to come out. Apparently they can't have dessert without me."

"Okay, I won't hold you up. And tell Riss I'm sorry I kept dessert waiting."

"Hey, I love you. I can't wait to get back there and give you your Christmas presents."

"Oooh, presents? Plural?"

"Maybe," he teases.

"Oh, crap, I almost forgot. How would you feel about maybe taking a road trip to Memphis with me this week? Luke's team is playing in some tournament there, and I thought it'd be fun. If you're busy and have to study, I can ask Brooke and Tim."

"No, no, I'd love that. I think it'd be nice for Luke and I to finally meet, don't you?"

"Yeah, I was hoping you'd say that!" I am smiling ear to ear now. "Thank you for making my day all wonderful."

"Just think how wonderful it could be if I was there," he says, dropping his voice down to an insinuating whisper.

"Jase," I laugh, "Stop it! You're going to get me all hot, and there's nothing I can do about it here."

"Now, that's just not true," he points out.

"Fine, whatever. How about this: there is nothing I want to do without you?"

"Now, that is a sentiment I can live with. Okay, baby, I really have to go before Riss has a heart attack. I love you!"

"Love you, too, honey! Merry Christmas."

We hang up just as Brooke comes ambling back into the room. "Well, my family sucks big, hairy donkey balls."

"Lovely," I remark, flopping back on the couch.

"How's Jason and his family?" she asks, grabbing a cookie and shoving it in her mouth with a flourish.

"They're good. Gina liked the gift I sent for her."

"Speaking of gifts, what'd Jason get you? And what'd you get him?"

"We're exchanging gifts when he gets back. And I'm not telling you what I got him, it's a secret," I inform her, laughing at her pout.

"Well, that's no fair."

"Sure it is," I tell her, "And guess what?"

"Are you changing the subject?" she asks, her eyes narrowing at me in suspicion.

"I might be," I nod, laughing, "But this is good! Jason and I are going to go to Memphis next week to watch Luke's basketball games! I'm going to introduce them, finally!"

"Wow," she says, her eyes widening, "I guess I forget that they don't know each other. That's cool, I know you miss Luke a lot."

"Well, I miss him, yeah, but it's not like I'm dying without him, Tigger. I do have you, right?" I smile, leaning my head on her shoulder.

"Yes, you do," she agrees, "And I have you."

"So, how was the phone call?" I ask, knowing that she needs to talk about it, and that she might actually be ready to do so now.

"It sucked, like always. Maybe I should start taking comfort in that or something. I don't know. They're considering selling this house."

"What?" I gape at her.

She nods. "Yeah, that was my reaction. But they're planning on moving to Florida, and they don't seem to think there is any good reason to keep this house. Including the fact that I'm living here right now, apparently."

"Oh, Tigger, I'm sorry. That has to suck."

"Yeah, well, what can you do, right? It's their house to do with as they please. I'm sure they think I should be grateful they've let me stay here this long."

"What? Did you think they'd kick you out after high school or something?"

"Huh, no, I figured when I turned sixteen, actually. I think every day since then I've wondered if that day would be the day they told me to pack up."

"Oh, Tigger," I sigh.

"It's okay, you know," she sort of laughs, "It's not like I ever really expected differently, you know? It's been like this as long as I can remember."

"That doesn't mean it should be like that," I reason.

"Well, no, but it's not like you have it so much better. I mean, your parents are never here either."

"Yeah, I know," I sigh, "So, we're both screwed. But still, at least I have got kicked out yet."

"I guess."

"Are pathetic or what?" I ask with a laugh.

"Not us, them," she corrects, "It's them. If you can't bother to see your children over the holidays, you're pathetic."

"Uh, Tigger? My parents are in town right now," I remind her, "So, am I pathetic for not spending the day with them?"

"Totally different! Look, they had years to show up for a holiday with you. You've always been here, right? And when was the last time they were here?"

"Um, I think it was when I was in seventh grade. After that they started traveling, and leaving me with Karen and Lucas."

"Okay, so that was like seven years ago. Screw them."

I laugh at that. "Yeah, well, I'd rather be here and have spent the day with you and Tim that them anyways."

She hugs me. "Yeah, me too. Well, I mean rather than my parents."

"I know."

"God, we are such a Hallmark commercial!" she laughs, "This is just getting ridiculous. Two years ago, I had no friends, and now I have friends that I act like commercial friends with. Freaky."

I spend the night here, not wanting to go home, but more than that just wanting to hang out with Brooke. Tim comes back when he's done with his family stuff, and the three of us crash on the giant couches in the Davis living room. And somehow, despite the family drama and my missing boyfriend, it turns out to be a really great Christmas.

"Calm down," he laughs, "I thought after how quiet you were when we went to Raleigh that you hated road trips or something."

I laugh with him. "No, I was just scared to meet your mom and sisters! I was worried they wouldn't like me."

He snorts. "Please. They like you more than they like me. Obviously that is not a problem. In fact, my mom told me that next time I come home I needed to bring you or not bother."

I can't help but laugh at the pout on his face. "Aw, I'm sure she was kidding, Jason." I lean over and kiss him on the cheek. "And anyways, can I help it that I am so darn loveable?" I joke.

"No, I guess not." He reaches over and squeezes my hand. "So, we're here," he announces unnecessarily as we pull into the parking lot of the hotel.

"Yes, we are!" I bubble joyfully as I get out of the car, "I haven't seen Luke since last summer, and I bet Karen has told him about the engagement by now, so we can talk about that! Oh, well, he doesn't know we're here, so I can surprise him, too!"

Jason just shakes his head, laughing. "Brooke is definitely wearing off on you," he points, "That whole speech thing was very Brooke-esque."

"Well, there are worse things I could be," I point out dramatically. I throw my arms around his neck and kiss him.

"What was that for?" he asks with a smile.

"Just because," I reply.

"Good enough for me," he jokes.

We get our bags out of the back of my car, talking and laughing and teasing each other. "Don't forget we have to meet Karen, Keith, and Eric in an hour," I remind him.

"I won't," he laughs. "It'll be good to see them again."

"Funny," I remark, "Karen was saying the same thing about you when I told her you were coming with me. She really likes you."

"You say that like you're surprised," he teases, "Shouldn't you know that everyone likes me by now?"

I roll my eyes at him. "Now, granted I don't know of anyone who doesn't like off the top of my head, but I bet I could find someone if I had to," I tease.

"Hey, when was the last time you met someone who didn't like me?" he asks indignantly.

I can't help but laugh. "Well, never," I concede, "I'm just saying I could probably find someone if I tried hard enough."

"Yeah, sure you could," he laughs, "You'd have to look really hard, though, and there are so much better things you could do. Like kissing me. Or, oh, I don't know, hole up in a hotel room with me."

"And make sweet love to you all night?" I quip.

He nods eagerly. "I wouldn't complain if you wanted to do that," he confirms, "I mean, there are definitely worse ways to spend our time, right?"

"Well, I'll take that suggestion under advisement."

"You do that," he whispers in my ear, breathing hotly on my neck. We check in hurriedly, and I think we both have it in mind to rush up to our room and stay there for the rest of the day, but we are meeting Karen, Keith, and Eric in about twenty minutes now.

We put our bags in our room, and I change clothes. Jason tries to help me, which turns out to be no help at all, but we laugh and kiss and have fun, so I don't mind too much. We get settled, and head downstairs to meet everyone to head over to the arena for Luke's first game.

"Karen!" I smile when I see her, lifting Eric out of her arms. "Hey, my little man, how are you, beautiful?"

"Now, Haley," Keith corrects, "He's handsome, not beautiful. Let's not go giving the kid a complex already. He's already got one crazy family to deal with."

I laugh, kissing him on the cheek. "Sorry Keith, but this is a beautiful baby."

"I'm not going to win, am I?" he asks amused as he shakes Jason's hand.

"Never," Jason confirms, "And you might as well not even try. It's good to see you all again, by the way."

"You, too," Karen smiles at him, even giving him a hug. I'm glad that Karen and Keith like Jason, even though I know they feel bad for Nathan. But they've both gone out of their way to be friendly to him, and since they are like family to me, it means a lot, both to me and Jase.

"You want me to take Eric?" Keith asks me.

I shake my head. "No way! I just got him, I get to keep him for a little while, at least! Isn't that right, cutie?" He giggles when I tickle his side.

"You better not be getting baby fever, young lady," Keith warns, "You have to finish college and get a job first."

I laugh, shaking my head. "No baby fever yet; I just happen to have a soft spot for this little guy. How could anyone not?"

The arena isn't far from here, so we all decide to walk over. It's chilly, but we're all bundled up, and it won't be long enough for Eric to get chilled. Keith and Jason talk about Luke's stats, and Karen tells me about how happy he is for her and Keith over their engagement.

"He's really thrilled," she smiles, "I have to admit that there was a part of me that was just a little worried that he might not be so happy. It was silly, of course, to think that. I mean, if he was going to be upset, it would've been about Eric, and he wasn't then, so he wouldn't be now. I don't know what I was thinking."

"You're babbling," I laugh, "That's usually my territory." I make a face at Eric before continuing. "And although I knew he'd be thrilled – I seriously think he's wanted this since we were about twelve and he realized how happy Keith makes you – I'm glad that he's made sure you know that, too."

She laughs. "He's going to be very surprised to see you tonight. He is definitely not expecting you at all."

"Well, good, I want this to be a total surprise. He was always the one who was good at planning surprises, so it is super nice to turn the tables on him for a change."

"This will definitely be a surprise," she confirms.

"Oooh, I can't wait!" I enthuse, "Sucks that we have to wait until after the game, though!"

The game goes well; Lucas's team loses, but he has a fantastic game, getting a lot of playing time and playing very well. He looks happy and good out there, so that's enough for me.

We wait for him after the game, and I'm so excited I'm practically dancing around. When he comes down the hallway, I squeal and tug on Jason's arm. He just laughs at me, pushing me towards him.

"Luke!" I shout, thrilled to see him.

"Hales? My God, what are you doing here? I didn't – damn, did I know you were coming?"

"No, it's a surprise!" I beam, hugging him hard. "I missed you!"

"I missed you, too! I can't believe you kept this a surprise, though. I just talked to you yesterday, and you usually spill these things," he teases me.

"Hey, I can keep a secret," I inform him indignantly, hugging him again. "Merry Christmas, did you get your presents?"

He laughs, "Yeah, I did, and I loved all of them, but especially the scrapbook. Thanks, Hales. Dan told me you gave him one, too."

"I did. I figured he didn't have many pictures of you, and probably none of you and Nathan together. It seemed like a nice thing to do for the guy who practically gave me my car for free."

"You're such a softie," he grins, "So, you gonna introduce me to your boyfriend?"

"How'd you know?"

He rolls his eyes. "Well, I've seen him before," he reminds, "And besides, he's not Tim, and you haven't talked about hanging out with any other guys."

"Oh. Right. Yeah, come on." I grab his hand and drag him the short distance over to Jason. "Luke, this is my boyfriend, Jason," I introduce them, smiling, "And Jase, this is Luke, one of my favorite people in the world."

"It's nice to meet you," Luke says, offering his hand. I'm not sure how Luke feels about meeting Jason. He never wants to hear me talk about him, but I think a big part of that is that he feels disloyal to Nathan.

Jason takes it, shaking it firmly. "Nice to meet you also. Hale has told me a lot about you."

"Yeah, likewise." Luke turns back to me. "So, what's going on with you? Talked to any of the old gang lately?"

I'm confused as to why he so abruptly turned away from Jason whose arm I instinctively take. "Uh, no, not really. Well, Jake, last week."

"Oh. Thought Nathan had said something about talking to you last week. For Christmas." I can't believe he's being such an ass. "Oh, that's not a secret, is it?" he asks pointedly, looking – shit, maybe even glaring – at Jason.

"Luke? What is wrong with you?" Karen and Keith are both frowning at him as he takes Eric from Keith.

"Nothing, there is nothing wrong with me. I was just asking Hales a question. I don't see how that is such a big deal."

"I didn't know you were my keeper," I joke, trying to diffuse the tension. He just shakes his head, not willing to give an inch on this – whatever it is. "Luke, what's going on?"

He passes Eric back to Karen, and grabs my arm, pulling me off to the side. "Look, I can't do this, Hales. I can't pretend like you can."

"Pretend what?" I hiss, starting to get upset with him, "What are you accusing me of pretending?"

"Pretending that Nathan doesn't exist, that his feelings don't matter."

"God, you're more of an ass about this than Nathan is," I spit out, "I know he's my brother, but you and I, Luke, we grew up together. We know each other inside out. How dare you treat me like this, and more important, how dare you treat Jason like this? He's been nothing but good for me."

He sighs, looking at least slightly contrite. "Hales, I have nothing against him, I don't, other than I know his mere existence hurts Nathan."

I turn away from him, still pissed and not willing to be easily placated right now. "Luke, I love Jason. I'm sorry – no, you know what? I'm not sorry. He's a good guy, and he treats me wonderfully. If you can't accept that, then we'll go."

"No, no, stop. I'm sorry. I'll apologize to him."

I sigh, swiveling to look at him. "That's not good enough, Luke! Are you going to treat him like shit for the time we're here? Because if you are, we'll leave. I mean it; I'm not doing that to him and I'm not doing it to me."

"Look, I'll be cool. Hey, I'll even try and get to know him, okay? Please don't be mad at me, Hales. I shouldn't have acted like such a dick."

"No, you shouldn't have," I agree, "This is ridiculous. God, if Nathan and I can talk about Jason not only civilly, but in a friendly manner, I think you can swing being nice to him for a couple of hours."

He nods. "Yeah, of course. Look, Hales, I shouldn't tell you this, but Nathan isn't as fine as he pretends with you. I guess I'm just defensive of him."

"He doesn't need you to be defensive, Luke. He's a grown man, he can take care of himself. And if he has a problem with me, then he should tell me himself, not have you act it out in this ridiculously, childish manner."

He leans against the wall, sliding down so he's sitting. I do the same next to him. "I'm sorry. You're right, I know you are. Look, let's go rescue your boyfriend from Mom and Keith."

"He's fine with them," I tell him, "They actually have given him a chance and like him."

He blushes. "Point taken. Come on," he says, standing up, "Let's go start this over. I promise to make an effort to get to know him."

"No snide remarks, I mean it. I will walk out." He nods at my warning. "Okay, then, let's go."

We walk back around the corner to where Jason is waiting with Keith and Karen. He's holding Eric, which makes me smile. Karen and Keith both fix disapproving looks on Luke, who still looks chagrined.

He walks over to Jason, holding his hand out again. Jason takes it, but does look wary. "I'm sorry about earlier," Luke apologizes, not even mumbling, "I was being an ass, and hopefully we can get past that and get to know each other."

"Uh, yeah, that'd be great," Jason agrees. He glances at me and I shrug, still a little confused about why Luke has taken up Nathan's cause so suddenly.

"Well," Karen interjects, "We should get to dinner. Eric is going to need to be put to bed soon, and none of you want to see him when that happens."

"Hey, he's pretty good now," Jason grins.

"He's a Scott," Luke boasts, "Scotts are always good." Keith nods, and Karen and I glare at him.

"Luke, I could run through a list of all the ways Scott men are not good, but I'll spare you," I tease.

"Really, Lucas, who was it who ran out and got a tattoo when they were seventeen for a girl?"

He blushes. "Hey, she was persuasive, what can I say?"

"She still is," I agree, "But seriously, a tattoo?"

"Like you didn't get one," he retorts, and I laugh, shrugging.

"But I never passed myself off as 'good', did I?"

"Okay, I want to hear some embarrassing Haley stories," Jason interjects, "I only hear the embarrassing stuff that Tim or Brooke are witness to."

"Oh, man, there was this one time," Luke begins, and I look over and smile at Karen.

Maybe this will be alright.

Two days later at lunch, Lucas and Jason are acting like they've been best friends forever. Turns out they both have a deep and abiding love for all things Steinbeck, so they're discussing 'The Grapes of Wrath' or something while I drift off thought-wise.

As much as I love both of them, this conversation is doing absolutely nothing for me. Of course, at this point, they can talk about whatever they want for all I care since they are getting along so well. Lucas even pulled me aside to tell me that he really likes Jason, and can see why I'm with him, which shocked me to no end considering the first couple of days here.

"Hales, you remember when we ten and had reading contests during the summer?" I just groan at his dorky memory of us. He turns to Jason. "We used to compete over who could get through the summer reading list fastest. I always won."

"That's something to be proud of," I mock.

"Hey, now, Miss Know It All Tutor Girl," he brats back at me, "You were every bit as dorky as I was."

"Never said I wasn't," I laugh, leaning against Jason who kisses my forehead, "But I'm also not bragging about my dorkiness, and similarly, I'm not tattling about my supposed best friends."

Jason laughs. "You two are too much."

"Crap, you guys," Lucas sighs looking at his watch, "I've got to go. Got to meet with the team; we're leaving in an hour."

"Aww, so soon?" I whine, standing up. Jason stands up, too.

"Yeah, I'm sorry, but I have to go. Hey, this was really great, though. I'm glad I got to spend the down time between games with both of you." He hugs me. "It was really great to meet you officially, Jason. Uh, twice, that is."

Jason laughs good-naturedly. "It was nice to meet you, too. The second time, I mean," he laughs. They shake hands while I roll my eyes at them.

"It was good to see you, Lucas. You need to get back to Tree Hill more often," I reprimand him. "I guess I won't see you until the wedding, huh?"

He nods. "Well, that's only five months away. May isn't too far down the road."

"Yeah, well, it's far enough," I mutter. He hugs me again. "Okay, I love you, be good, stop running through girls like they're pairs of socks, and eat your vegetables," I laugh, kissing his cheek.

"I'll miss you, Hales. You be good, too."

"Always am." Both Jason and Luke smirk at that. "Brats."

"Take care of her," Luke says to Jason as they do the manly handshake/hug combo thing that I never did understand, "She think she's tough like a lion, but she's really just soft like a kitty."

"If we were ten," I warn Luke, as Jason laughs, "I'd kick you in the shin."

"Liar," he retorts, "If your boyfriend wasn't here and you didn't want to embarrass yourself, you'd kick me."

"Whatever." I hug him one last time. "Now get out of here, I don't want you blaming me because you're late. I love you, Lukie!"

He grins at me as he turns around and walks away. Jason wraps his arms around me, kissing my neck. "You okay?"

"Yeah, I'm fine. I got to see him for a few days, and now I get to go home with you." I look over my shoulder smiling at him.

"Good answer," he laughs, "So, you ready to head back home?"

"Yes, as a matter of fact I am. It'll be nice to sleep in my own bed tonight."

"Yours, huh? I was going to invite you to stay in mine?"

I laugh. "Are you inviting me to shack up at the frat house?"

"Hey, you have a standing invitation to stay with me all the time." He turns me around and kisses me. "I love you."

"I love you, too."

How did everything get so good all of a sudden? Oh, who cares, I'll just enjoy it while it lasts.