Homeless Hearts: Abandoned Love
The four of them stood shock-still, each looking at a sleeping Haley, and on to each other.
Deb brought her hand up to her mouth. "Someone should…you know, wake her up?" she said, obviously not volunteering herself. She wasn't exactly sure how to deal with Haley right now, or ever for that matter.
So many different emotions swirling around inside her, much like everyone else. She'd like Haley at first, thought she would be good for Nathan, but she had never seen him this heartbroken. It was all Haley's fault.
With that thought Deb turned to look at Nathan. His dark eyes wide, his mouth parted slightly… all he could do was, stare. Deb wondered if he'd even heard her.
Peyton, meanwhile had slowly stepped forward and bent down onto her knees in front of Haley. Peyton hadn't seen Haley in a long time and to her, she seemed to look a lot older. A lot more mature then, when she'd left… It was kind of how Peyton felt, right now.
Jake had changed her, not in a good way, and not in a bad way… She'd just changed. It was like he'd given her a window into another life. What was clear as glass now seemed foggy. It was a life where she'd been forced to be mature, to do things any normal 17 year-old shouldn't have to. But Jake did, mostly by choice, so she never could complain in taking a role opposite him. Peyton had found herself falling for not only Jake, but Jenny too.
Over the weeks, she'd subconsciously adopted Jenny as her own, considered Jenny her own. They'd had a homey set-up, but just as fast as the love, family and comfort had come, it was gone. And now, Peyton had been left behind, with nothing but memories to fill her otherwise empty summer days and nights. Peyton knew what it was like to have loved, and lost…
His search for Jenny had been narrowed down. It had only been a day since he'd talk to the last person to have seen her. A hotel clerk had helpfully pointed in Arizona's direction. He'd assured Jake that was where she was headed; that he'd 'accidentally' overheard Nikki's phone conversation. This didn't surprise him the least. Nikki, and loud, weren't exactly strangers. Jake was hot on her trail, and he was confident it wouldn't be long before she'd slip up. She was a fugitive now, but the only thing she was armed with was his daughter. But even he knew that was potentially dangerous.
Although his search was what filled his life, he found the majority of his thoughts dashed back to Peyton, at every possible spare moment. His mind raced forward to the future, when he'd retrieve Jenny from Nikki's unholy grasp and he could get his life back on track. He'd go back to Peyton…and finally listen to his hearts desire.
His knuckles began to turn white, as he gripped the handles of his motorcycle, tighter and tighter with every incoming thought of his beloved Peyton Sawyer. His heart began beating rapidly with the very thought of their body's touching. Of his fingers lacing through various strands of her sun-tinted curls... Of losing himself, in the depths of her grey eyes.
He shook off the trance, knowing the faster he found Jenny the faster he could have that; have her, instead of hopelessly dreaming. His eyes narrowed through the reflections left on his helmet, focusing justly on the path before him. As the overcast skies above, clouded all doubts of tomorrow…
Peyton inched her hand forward, extending her index finger and quickly poking Haley's shoulder, as if in turn Haley was going to bite her finger right off.
The rest of the lovely 4-sum watched blankly. Lucas was the only one to finally pipe up. When Peyton's first attempt had failed she'd been a second away from the next. "Well… Not like that" he said, laughter in his tone. He knelt down beside Peyton, "Hales" he whispered, gently stroking her arm. "Hales." He repeated, a little louder.
Haley's eyes began to flutter open as her hazel gaze was met with four sets of eyes staring back at her, in her current disposition. Her pulse quickened with embarrassment. Lucas; she could handle. Nathan; she could handle after a good night's sleep and a rather large cup of coffee. Deb; she never really had to deal with in the first place, except maybe once or twice. Both times she seemed generally proud of her reaction. Peyton: wow, she'd missed Peyton. A sudden surge of regret entered her body. She hadn't done her job of keeping in touch. Yet another not-so-smart move on her part, since their friendship had been so new and fragile when she'd left… She could only imagine how it would be now.
Haley began to sit up, and Lucas took the initiative of aiding her. She weakly smiled her thanks, and opened her mouth in hope that some wildly; believable excuse may condor its way to her spoken words. Nothing.
"Welcome Back," Deb said, her voice seeming icy to the disoriented brunette.
"Thanks." Haley almost whispered. In fact she wasn't at all sure if she'd said it, for a split second, it was assumed her thanks had only gone as far as her thoughts.
But she knew, she was wrong when Deb gave her a polite, but completely forged grin, and proceeded to step around her in order to get to the café's entrance. Haley shifted to the side a little, but neglected to stand up from the step fully.
Deb unlocked it and entered, leaving the glass door open so the rest of them could file in. Nathan was first to follow, finally peeling his eyes away from Haley. She hadn't looked directly at him, for that reason. She could feel his brown eyes on her, piercing through her… until ever fiber of her being was aware of his attendance. He could still send chills up her spine, only it used to be out of love, passion and excitement, now it derived from something closer to resentment.
He brushed past her, but said nothing; though she hadn't really expected he would. She inhaled deeply the breeze he'd left her in. She could honestly say, she missed him now, more then ever. It was something about being near him, but not having him to hug, to hold and to kiss that frustrated her to no end.
Peyton now stood tall…Compared to Lucas and Haley who remained seated on the concrete. Peyton had noticed the fact that Lucas had yet to take his eyes off of Haley James. It was like if he did, she'd mysteriously disappear. Something, he couldn't risk happening again.
But she wasn't really surprised, Haley and Lucas had a past…a history. Peyton, was just a stand-in…maybe not even. They'd barely spoken at all since she'd insisted on pushing Lucas away. She'd decided losing her best friend, had been hardly worth the drama, when in the end, she'd ended up alone.
'Haley, Haley James' she'd thought they'd had something. Or at least, potential for something. She had to admit it was, awkward at first, seeing as though she'd been the last person with Nathan, pre-Haley. Haley was dating the jerk, the jock and the Scott that Peyton had just been rid off. But somehow she fit into Peyton's life…or at least the life she wanted to have.
She could honestly say she'd loved Haley as one of her closest friends… She couldn't really blame her for chasing her dreams, but at the same time she'd only added another grey cloud to the thunderstorm that hung over Peyton's head, when she'd left. Peyton now felt tears stinging her eyes; panicked, she felt the need to make them go away in the least obvious way possible. 'People Always Leave…"
She wanted to say something to the blonde that stood before her. But she really wasn't sure what… Haley's mind sped rapidly in circles, until she realized she didn't really know Peyton anymore… It'd been so long, that anything she did know had likely changed. Haley couldn't say she really knew anyone anymore, she even doubted herself.
Peyton hurried past her and into the café, briefly stopping to flip the 'Closed' sign to 'Open'. Haley followed every move she made, but inside she knew, there was no way Peyton's actions could help her get to know her again, or at all.
Haley had become ignorant of her best friends place, beside her. When she turned her head she was surprised to find his eyes locked on her. She smiled wearily. "Hi." She squealed.
"I thought we already said our Good-Bye's?"
"I decided it wasn't the end," she told him a smile forming on her lips, as she hugged his arm, resting her head on his shoulder.
"I missed my best friend while you were gone, Hales." He told her softly.
Her head snapped up, "Oh really? I don't really see how you can associate missing your 'best friend' with my absence. So, where is this best friend of yours right now?" she smirked.
"Apparently, she's been found sleeping on the sidewalk. Whether or not this is the first time I'm not sure…" he joked.
"Hmm."
"'Hmm' seems a little too strong of a reaction…even for her."
Haley whacked his arm playfully, "Haven't you heard?" she asked. "Haley James is the bomb!"
Luc laughed rising up off the ground and offering her his hand. She took it willingly and he effortlessly pulled her up. "I hadn't." he told her, once she'd risen to her feet.
She bent over to retrieve her bag. Standing up again, she glanced at him lightheartedly.
"What?" he asked, as if he'd been found guilty.
She beamed and started stepping towards the open café door. She reached up curving her free arm around his broad shoulders; which took a great deal of exertion, seeing as though she was short compared to him. "Just don't tell anyone. Keep it on the D/L" she whispered into his ear, before removing her arm from around him.
Lucas grinned, a little confusion set on his face. "D/L?" He asked, pushing the door to the café open wider.
"Down Low!" she practically shouted, as if this were something he should have known in the first place. She shot him a 'Have I taught you nothing?' type of look and redirected her vision to her upcoming task.
Lucas began to walk through the doorway, and was alarmed when Haley stood rock still, as if her feet had been planted in the exact spot, not allowing her to move. He rolled his eyes and stepped back behind her, placing his hand on the small of her back, applying enough pressure to send her feet moving forward and into Karen's Café.
Brooke found herself on a plane to New Zealand a mere 2 hours after she'd been assaulted in the airport parking lot. She'd been somewhat surprised when she thought about it, after the fact. No one had heard her? No one had tried to save her. No one was in sight. Andy told her that he was sure someone would've seen her, had this been a busier airport. But he was somewhat disappointed in the fact this small town airport lacked frequent flyers. Thereby lacking the security that may have otherwise, prevented an event like this from occurring.
She pressed her forehead against the glass pane of the airplane's window; Andy had been kind enough to sacrifice the window seat. The glass chilled her forehead, but she didn't mind, her previous thoughts had been that she found airplanes to be too stuffy anyways. And it's not like you could crack open a window over 3 thousand feet in the air. She hadn't slept in the plane, though she wished she could. Sleep was one of her best friends, she relied on it to keep her cheery enough, to deal with the student body… seeing as though she was the president.
But too much had happened, in such little time. Her mind wouldn't stop winding well enough for her to even be able to close her eyes. As much as she always regretted not being able to sleep, she knew the chances were lowered even more due to her attire, placement, and company. Though she liked Andy, and appreciated him taking her with him, sitting beside Andy sleeping… well that's a whole other story on it's own. Her hands gripped the polyester fabric of the armrests in dismay as he let out another unconscious grunt, causing her to tense up. As if flying wasn't stressful enough.
She sighed in thought of everything she still had to deal with… Replacing all stolen items, calling her parents and telling them that their little girl won't be home for another 2 weeks. And…Lucas.
Seems like just yesterday
You were a part of me
I used to stand so tall
I used to be so strong
Your arms around me tight
Everything felt so right
Unbreakable like nothing could go wrong
Now I can't breathe
No I can't sleep
I'm barely hanging on
Haley huddled herself with a cup of coffee, at the far end of the counter. She cupped her hands around the mug, the warmth of her beverage slowly recovering her from her previous chills. Looking up, her eyes landed abruptly on the far couch where Nathan and Peyton had stationed themselves. Each held a mug, much like Haley's, as they quietly whispered things to one another.
Here I am
Once again
I'm torn into pieces
Can't deny it
Can't pretend
Just thought you were the one
Broken up deep inside
But you won't get to see the tears I cry
Behind these hazel eyes
Brooke still found herself surrounded by a crowd of people, but alone. As she trudged off the plane; no baggage to collect, and no one there to pick her up, she couldn't help but let her eyes wander over the crowds, somehow hoping… that anyone may be there. Anyone to help her be rid of this void, that reoccurringly returned.
I told you everything
Opened up and let you in
You made me feel alright
For once in my life
Now all that's left of me
Is what I pretend to be
So together but so broken up inside
Cause I can't breathe
No I can't sleep
I'm barely hanging on
Her chest felt tight, she was in pain. Her heart ached… She felt as if he'd just ripped it out, and it was the hurt she couldn't bear. The way he was looking at Peyton, the smiles they exchanged. Those used to belong to her, though she vaguely remembered what it felt like to be looked at in such a way. Haley knew he'd loved her despite his original intentions but, now she was flushed with qualm that, love would never be true to her ever again.
Here I am
Once again
I'm torn into pieces
Can't deny it
Can't pretend
Just thought you were the one
Broken up deep inside
But you won't get to see the tears I cry
Behind these hazel eyes
She'd told him Good-Bye, and she meant it. Why was she full of regret? If she couldn't be true to her heart, where did that leave her? Other then in a mess of clashing emotions, and equipped with one and a half shoes.
She paused with Andy at the baggage claim, and began rummaging through her purse. Upon retrieving her cell phone she calmly flipped through her phone book. Should she?
It wasn't her choice when Andy placed his hand on her shoulder, and began directing her in another path. He said nothing, but his hand remained on her shoulder. It was weird at first. But she came to realize it as, a sense of security. They made their way carefully through the airport, and into the streets of New Zealand.
Swallow me then spit me out
For hating you I blame myself
Seeing you it kills me now
No I don't cry on the outside
Anymore…
Jealousy horned its way through Haley, she'd had all she could take. Seizing one last sip of her coffee, she slammed the mug onto the counter. Causing everyone in the café to pause and look at her. She felt a blush creep up the back of her neck, as she smiled weakly, her eyes wandering to every table. She was the center of attention, once again. All eyes on the subtly attractive brunette.
She should be used to this, what's the difference between a coliseum full of people, and a café? Nathan Scott was the difference. Her eyes became blurry, nothing could seem as real to her, if her vision was coated in tears. She didn't want it to be real. Not anymore. More then anything she just wanted someone to jolt her out of this terrible dream. She squeezed her eyes shut, and the tears effortlessly roamed down her face one after the other.
Here I am
Once again
I'm torn into pieces
Can't deny it
Can't pretend
Just thought you were the one
Broken up deep inside
But you won't get to see the tears I cry
Behind these hazel eyes
She hated herself for letting them see her emotions. Mechanically she ran for the door. She wanted to abandon her love. She didn't want to feel the throbbing inside of her. But something pulled her back. She didn't turn to see who, or what it was. Because straight a head, she caught glimpse of his reflection…
…Behind these hazel eyes.
I'd first and for most, like to thank every who reviewed the first chapter, and I'd be glad to answer all the questions. Yes, I had watched Pretty Woman before writing the first chapter. I did in fact subtly use HD lyrics, I'm glad someone noticed. Evidently this is a Naley. Kelly, Keller, I took a shot and missed, I apologize! Whether or not I will keep it Brucas, or turn it Leyton... I think you've gotten a pretty good clue in this chapter. Realistically Lucas wouldn't be all ILUVBROOKE to ILUVEPEYTON, because he doesn't Love Peyton. I just thought they would extend their friendship. Or you know, actually have them talk? Please review this chapter too, or I will assume no one is reading, and I shan't continue! Though, the plot is already layed out... I think, maybe... WELL! I'm open to suggestions. So leave them!
-Samantha