Chapter 14
Lorelai woke the next morning feeling rested and relaxed. She stretched out across the bed then it hit her, she was still in her clothes from the night before. She didn't remember going to bed. The last thing she remembered was her wonderful date with Luke then curling up beside him.
"Oh my god" she said out loud feeling panic rise in her "Stupid Gilmore, Stupid" she chastised herself.
She started to worry... poor Luke, she had fallen asleep but she just felt so comfortable. She was about to get up when she noticed her notebook on the other side of the bed. She picked it up and read.
"Good morning sleeping beauty,
Sorry I tired you out, I obviously didn't give you enough coffee. I'll rectify that when you come in for breakfast this morning.
I had a great time last night
Love,
Luke"
Lorelai smiled. This man was perfect.
Lorelai went down stairs to find Rory in the kitchen in her pajamas finishing off some homework.
"Morning sweets"
"Morning mom, How was your date last night?" Rory asks innocently
"It was great. Ah hon... I think I fell asleep on the way home. Where you here when Luke brought me home?"
"Wow fell asleep... did he wear you out?"
"Funny, funny girl. No I fell asleep on the ride home... I was so excited about the date I didn't sleep well on Friday night and I was tired."
"That's what I told him," Rory said
"So you saw Luke?"
"Yeah I was still up when he carried you in. He bought you upstairs. I think he was a little embarrassed but I had a talk to him and everything's fine"
"What sort of talk?"
"I just wanted to know what his intentions were with my mother. I mean is this a long term thing or just a fling, I asked how the business was going and how will he support you in the life you wish to be accustomed...that sort of thing." Rory said trying not to laugh
Lorelai stopped for a minute, surely she wasn't serious.
Rory laughed at the look on Lorelai's face "Relax mom, I just told him I was happy for the two of you and that I wanted him to be comfortable here."
"Don't do that, poor mommy almost had a heart attack. You know no teasing until I've had my coffee. But thanks I am glad you talked to him. You being happy as well means a lot to him"
"So how was your date?" Rory asked genuinely
"It was great. Well after we had a little talk then it was great. He took me to a little restaurant in Litchfield and we just talked all night. It was great. I was so comfortable and we didn't have to go through all the getting to know you stuff. It was the best first date I've ever had." Lorelai smiled as she thought about the night before
"Well Luke looked pretty happy too" Rory told her mother
"Yeah he was. But I bet he wasn't too impressed with me falling asleep on him though. I'm so embarrassed about that."
"I'm sure he didn't mind mom." Rory said with a laugh wiggling her eyebrows up and down
"I'm going to have a shower and get dressed and head over to the diner. You coming?"
"Yeah I'll just finish this page then I'll get dressed"
About half and hour later Lorelai and Rory entered the diner which was almost full. There were people everywhere and Luke was running around. He was so busy he didn't notice them enter. They took a seat at the only available table in the corner of the diner and watched him as he ran around with plates and cutlery, running from the kitchen to tables then back into the kitchen.
"Wow look at him go" Lorelai said in amazement
Lorelai stood up.
"Where are you going?" Rory asked
"To get some coffee, Luke is really busy and by getting my own coffee I'll be helping him out"
"I'm sure he won't see it like that"
"Hey when did you get here?" Both girls turned around when they heard Luke's voice
"We've been here for hours and if you didn't look so busy I'd be offended that you didn't notice me" Lorelai pouted
"We've only just walked in" Rory informed him
"Sorry I'm just flat out. It's unusually busy today." Luke told them
"I was just saying that to Rory. I'll just go and pour my own coffee today just to help you out"
"Nice try but I can manage" Luke walked over to the counter grabbed two mugs and a pot of coffee. He walked back over to their table and poured them two mugs and took their orders. Luke walked back out a few minutes later and placed their food down in from of them. Just then Caesar called out to Luke.
"I'll be back" Luke told them
Rory and Lorelai ate their breakfast. Lorelai eyes wondering over to Luke following him as he made his way around the diner with plates of food and drink. Rory had finished her food while Lorelai still had half left on her plate.
"Eating very slowly this morning mom. I wonder what could be distracting you?" Rory asked pretending not to know
Lorelai took her eyes away from looking at Luke and turned her gaze to her plate "I don't know what you mean"
Rory stood up and kissed her mother's cheek "I'm going to go to Lane's. I'll see you home later, assuming you've finished eating your breakfast by then"
"Ha ha. Have fun at Lane's and I'll grab the video and supplies for tonight"
"OK bye" Rory turned back to her mother "Hey, why don't you ask Luke if he wants to come and watch with us tonight"
"You sure?"
"Yeah I think it'll be funny to see your face when I explain to Luke that you have a thing for the little guys on the screen. I mean how is he going to feel when he realizes he's competing with Oompa Loompas" Rory laughed
Lorelai gasped, "You wouldn't dare"
"Bye mom" Rory said as she left the diner.
"Evil child" Lorelai called after her
Lorelai was finishing her breakfast when Luke came and sat next down to her.
"Hey"
"Sorry about before" Luke apologized
"That's ok. I can understand, the people of Stars Hollow want their food served by a hunky diner man, I know I do"
Luke rolled his eyes.
Lorelai put her fork down "Hey Luke, Have you got a second to talk?"
"Yeah do you want to go upstairs? I'll just go tell Caesar to cover for me"
Lorelai made her way up to Luke's apartment while Luke went to talk to Caesar. He walked inside a few minutes later and shut the door behind him.
Lorelai walked up to him kissed him softly on the lips. "I didn't get a goodnight kiss last night" Lorelai said then kissed him again. Finally she pulled away "Hey Luke, I'm sorry about last night. You know falling asleep on you"
"It's ok" Luke pulled Lorelai into a hug
"Can I make it up to you? Tonight Rory and I are going to stay home and watch a video, eat lots of junk food and we thought you'd like to come, you know for a movie night"
"You sure?"
"Yeah"
"And Rory won't mind?" Luke didn't want to intrude on their mother/daughter time
"It was her idea"
"Um.. Okay. But I'll bring dinner."
"You don't have to"
"I want to"
"Ok great. Um say six?"
"Six is great"
Luke leaned down and kissed her while running his hands up and down her back. Lorelai snaked her arms around Luke's neck and deepened the kiss. Luke moved his hands up her back and through her hair and massaging the base of her neck softly. Eventually they pulled apart breathless. Lorelai leaned in against Luke's chest trying to catch her breath, while Luke tried to settle his breathing, wrapping his arms around her tightly. Lorelai shut her eyes just concentrating on the sensation of Luke's strong arms around her and listening to his heart beating. He kissed the top of her head and Lorelai looked up at Luke. There's eyes met, locked in the moment. Neither spoke, their eyes saying more than words could. Luke took Lorelai's face in his hands and kissing her again. After a few moments their lips pulled apart again. Lorelai took Luke's hand in hers, entwining her fingers with his. "Come on, someone has to get back to work" Lorelai started to walk towards the door not trusting herself to be alone with Luke for another second.
"You want coffee don't you?" Luke laughed, relieved Lorelai was thinking what he was thinking...now was not the time.
"You know me so well" Lorelai smiled
They walked back down to the diner Luke pouring her a large takeout cup of coffee before she left.
Chapter 15
"Mom?"
"Upstairs" Rory heard her Lorelia's voice call
Rory walked through the living room past the coffee table covered with every kind of junk food available for purchase. She climbed the stairs and peered into her mother's room. Lorelai was standing in her bathrobe staring at the piles of clothing around her room.
"What happened?" Rory asked looking at the state of the room
"What do you mean what happened?" Lorelai asked
"This mess. I mean I know you're not the tidiest person but you usually have a floor"
"I have nothing to wear" Lorelai pouted
Rory rolled her eyes "This is becoming a daily conversation."
"No I mean I have clothes but nothing to wear for tonight"
"So I'm assuming you asked Luke and he's coming over?"
"Yes and bringing food but back to my problem. What do I wear; he's seen me in everything. I need new clothes. Lets go shopping"
"Now?" Rory asked confused
"Yes now"
"What time did you tell Luke to come?"
"Six"
"At six. Mom it's 5:30"
"Yes" Lorelai looked are Rory who didn't say anything "Stop looking at me like I'm crazy"
"Well if you'd stop acting crazy. Mom, I've never seen you like this. Last night I could understand the craziness it was your first date but tonight is just a movie and it's just with Luke"
"Ok get to the point"
"That is my point, it's just a movie, and there's no stress. And it's just Luke and I'll be there and Luke doesn't care what you wear and now I'm sounding crazy... it's like a disease" Rory took a breath "OK these jeans" she held them up for her mother "and this top. Now put them on and get downstairs." Rory ordered
Lorelai answered in her best childlike voice "Yes Mom"
"If this keeps up don't expect me to be here before your next date," Rory laughed. She started to walk out of the room then turned back "Hey mom"
"Yeah?"
"You're really happy aren't you?"
"Deliriously" Lorelai answered with a goofy smile
"Good" Rory existed leaving Lorelai to finish getting ready
At six Lorelai was finally ready and in the living room checking the pile of junk food making sure they hadn't left anything out. There was a knock at the door and Lorelai stopped. Her stomach flipped knowing who was on the other side. She walked to the door as quickly as she could and took a deep breath to calm herself before answering it.
"Hey"
"Hey" Lorelai leaned in and kissed him quickly before leading him inside
"I've got the food" Luke said holding up the bags of diner food.
"Hey Luke" Rory said as she came out of the kitchen with plates and cutlery "Smells good"
"Yeah, what'd you bring us" Lorelai asked excitidly
"Veggie burgers and fruit salad for desert"
Rory and Lorelai looked at each other, then at Luke, then back to each other.
"Did he just say what I thought he said?" Lorelai asked Rory
"I don't know I'm in shock"
"He wouldn't be that cruel"
"Hey I'm here" Luke waved at the girls who had seem to have forgotten he was in the room "And yes I'm kidding, I can't believe how easy that was"
"Now that was just cruel" Lorelai and Rory both pouted. Luke just laughed, "The veggie burger & fruit is for me. Here beef burgers with the lot and chili fries and pie with ice cream for dessert for you" He said as he handed them the bags
"Yay" Both girls jumped up and down excitedly. Luke continued to laugh at how seriously they took their food.
The three sat down on the couch and ate their dinner. When they had finished Rory collected the plates and took them into the kitchen.
"I can't believe you're going to eat all this crap" Luke pointed to the pile on coffee table.
"Believe it babe" Lorelai said matter of factly. "This is only a sample of what we usually eat but we didn't want to scare you"
"Thanks, I think"
Rory walked back into the living room with drink refills. Then she walked over to the TV turned it on and put the video in. Lorelai moved around the couch trying to get the bet position and to get comfortable. Rory set her self up on the floor with some cushions leaving Luke and Lorelai the couch to themselves. With Luke at one end, Lorelai leaned up against him and spread out across the rest of the couch. The three watched the movie with Lorelai and Rory eating most of the junk food but Lorelai did manage to get Luke to eat some popcorn and a red vine.
"Oh Mom...look" Rory pointed to the screen. Lorelai shot her a "don't even think about it" stare
Luke looked between the two of them "Care to share?"
"See the Oompa Loompas?" Rory started
"You mean the little men?" Luke aked
Lorelai looked ayt her daughter "Rory"
"Well you see mom..." Rory stopped and looked at her mother
"So what about that weather huh?" Lorelai tried to change the subject
"Mom has a 'thing' for them" Rory finished
Lorelai pouted at her daughter "Evil"
"But don't worry Luke, it's not as big as the thing she has for you" Rory turned back to watch the movie smiling leaving Lorelai looking slightly embarrassed. Luke smiled at her and leaned over and whispered in her ear "I've got a big thing for you too"
"Dirty!" Lorelai whispered
Rory turned around hearing her mother giggle "What?"
"Ah nothing" Luke replied, his face turning a bright shade of red when he realized what he had said.
Lorelai laughed at the look on Luke's face "That's a lovely shade you're wearing there hon., really brings out your eyes"
Luke looked away "Just watch your little men will ya"
Both the girls laughed.
When the movie was over and all the junk food consumed Rory stood up "I'm going to bed. Thanks for dinner Luke"
"That's ok. Good night Rory"
"Night Luke, Night mom"
"Night hon"
Rory turned to look at them and smiled "See you both in the morning" she said before she turned and went to her room.
"So" Lorelai turned back to Luke trying to ignore Rory's comment "What did you think of the famous Willie Wonker?"
"It was good. I think I've seen it before with Liz when we were kids maybe" Luke looked at her seriously "So... um... Lorelai can I ask you something?"
"Okay" Lorelai answered worried about the tone in his voice
"Should I be jealous of the little men, I mean how serious is this?" Luke asked with a smile
"Luke" Lorelai hit him playfully
"Just curios I mean if we're wlaking down the street and suddenly see one are you going to push me in the gutter and run after him and have little Oompa babies"
"Luke, stop" Lorelai said laughing
"Lorelai Loompa – has a nice ring to it actually. Maybe I should be worried"
Lorelai was laughing so hard she had tears rolling down her cheeks. "If you keep that up then yes you should be worried mister"
Luke smiled at Lorelai, she was the only one who could bring this playful side out of him. The only one he felt comfortable enough around to let his guard down and just enjoy life. He watched her laughing and trying to catch her breath, he had done that to her, he had made her laugh that wonderful, contagious laugh that he loved. He watched her as she laughed out loud- her eyes sparkling. He looked at his hand in hers. She had picked it up when he was teasing her, lacing her fingers through his.
"What?" Lorelai asked when she noticed him smiling at her
"Nothing I'm just watching you"
"Yes, I'm so entertaining aren't I?" She said still laughing
"You're so beautiful" Luke responded softly
"So are you" Lorelai responded looking down at her hand in his, noticing how good it looked there. Lorelai looked up at Luke, her eyes meeting his. She leaned in and their lips met. Softly at first then becoming more passionate. Lorelai leaned against Luke as the kiss deepened. Luke leaned back on the couch with Lorelai now on top of him. Lorelai arms snaked around Luke's neck running her fingers along the bottom of his neck while Luke wrapped his arms around her waist, his hands softly brushing the exposed skin between her top and jeans. Luke felt her shiver against him as his hands moved slowly under her top and up and down her back. Both eventually pulled back looking into each other eyes. Without saying anything Lorelai stood up grabbed Luke's hand, pulled him off the couch and towards the stairs
"Lorelai?" Luke said huskily
Lorelai just nodded and led him up the stairs
A few hours later Lorelai opened her eyes and smiled as she cane face to face with a sleeping Luke. Her arm was on his stomach his arm around her back and their legs tangled together. Her smile broadened as she thought back. She had led Luke up to her room, Luke concerned about Rory and they talked things though. Lorelai reassuring Luke that Rory was ok with this, they had talked about it earlier and she reminded him about Rory's little comment before she went to bed, it was Rory's way of letting him know she was ok with it all.
They made love and it was unlike anything Lorelai had ever experienced before. It was amazing, passionate and so full of love. Lorelai couldn't believe how wonderful and right everything felt. She couldn't help herself and leaned in and kissed him softly on the lips.
Luke stirred and opened his eyes, a smile forming across his face "Hi"
He pulled Lorelai closer to him and kissed her.
Lorelai whispered in his ear "Incase I didn't tell you enough over the past few hours, I love you"
"I love you too" Luke kissed her again and slowly closed his eyes
"Wear you out did I?"
"Hmmmm" Luke mumbled
Lorelai studied his face for a few moments, his eyes shut, his features relaxed. Lorelai was so overcome with love and emotion she felt tears spring to her eyes, she sniffed a little.
Luke opened his eyes "Hey what's wrong?" he ran his thumb across her face wiping away a tear as it ran down her cheek
"Nothing I'm fine" Lorelai looked away embarrassed.
"No tell what's wrong. Is it something I've done?" Luke asked
Lorelai could hear the concern in his voice "No, nothing you've done it's just stupid. I'm just... I don't know. I guess I'm just so overwhelmed. I've never felt like this before... this... in love. It was a happy tear I promise"
Luke smiled and kissed her. "Come on lets go back to sleep"
Lorelai nodded and settled back against Luke's chest and they both fell asleep in the arms of the one they loved.
Chapter 16
The next morning Luke woke and looked at the clock. 6:20. He had slept in. He hadn't planned on staying the night, which meant he hadn't organized for anyone else to open the diner. He smiled as he felt Lorelai stir slightly, her head resting on his chest. He brushed the hair out of her eyes and kissed the top of her head. Lorelai opened her eyes when she felt Luke move under her.
"Argh what time is it?"
"Shhh, go back to sleep it's early" Luke said as he tried to untangle himself from her
"Early sucks. Where are you going?" Lorelai asked as she tightened her arms around him to hold him down
"I have to open the diner"
"No it's too early to go anywhere. Stay"
Luke stopped for a second. He knew he had to go and he was already late but when he heard her ask him to stay his stomach flipped. He couldn't move now, he'd waited so long to hear her say that to him. Luke relaxed back on the bed "Just for 5 minutes, I'm already late"
Lorelai moved her head back on his chest "Hmmm.. Yeah... 5 minutes" she murmured sleepily
Luke smiled and shook his head then closed his eyes when he opened them again it was 6:57. He hadn't meant to fall back to sleep. He slowly moved Lorelai off him as gently as possible. He grabbed his clothes from the floor and changed quickly. He sat on the end of the bed to put his socks and shoes on. He was about to stand up when he felt pressure on his back. Lorelai's arms hung over his shoulders as she leaned against him and kissed his neck. "And where do you think you're going?" she whispered in his ear between kisses.
"I have business to run remember, I should have opened a hour ago"
"Uh ha" Lorelai was still kissing his neck
"And ... ah... I have to...go and... open" Luke swallowed hard, he was finding it increasingly difficult to concentrate.
"As much as I would love to stay here I really... um...have to go. I have to open. I promise... next time I'll make sure Caesar is opening"
Lorelai sat up "Next time huh. What makes you think there'll be a next time?"
Luke turned around, placed his hands at the base of her jaw, pulled her closer and kissed her deeply. Lorelai tried to pull away, pretending to be upset but she was soon lost in the kiss. Eventually they both pulled back panting "So next time?" Luke asked
Lorelai shrugged "Maybe"
Luke leaned in and kissed her again, when they pulled apart Luke raised his eyebrows. Lorelai nodded "Next time" she leaned in for another kiss. They both pulled apart breathless.
"I really have to go" Luke looked at her apologetically
"Yeah I know. So what are you doing tonight?"
"Having dinner with a beautiful woman. The same beautiful women who's wearing very little clothing at this very moment"
"Hmmm and she may be wearing the same outfit tonight, all the rest of her clothing needs to be washed"
"No complaints from me. See you later" Luke kissed her quickly
"Bye" Lorelai watched Luke walk out the bedroom. She flopped back on the bed, a huge smile plastered on her face.
Just after midday Lorelai entered the diner. She sat at the counter and waited for Luke. A minute later he walked out of the kitchen
"Hey"
"Hey, you're not normally in for lunch"
"Yes well I kind of slept in this morning and was late for work so I had to go straight to the Inn thus missing my morning coffee served by the hunky diner owner so I've come in for lunch instead. I'm not sure why I was so tired this morning though?"
Luke laughed and poured her a coffee. "Do you want to go and see a movie tonight, I mean we didn't get to the theatre last time"
"I'd love that" Lorelai answered before taking a long sip of her coffee
"Ok, I'll pick you up at six and this time movie first then dinner"
"Deal" Lorelai agreed
"So the usual for lunch?"
"Yes please" Just then Lorelai's cell phone rang. Lorelai looked over at Luke expecting the usual shove towards the door. Instead he just shrugged and walked into the kitchen.
"Hello"
"Lorelai this is your mother"
"Hi mom" Lorelai mentally cursing herself for not checking her caller Id
"Your father and I are going out of town tomorrow for a month, it's a last minute thing so there we won't be having Friday night dinners for a while" Lorelai smiled, well maybe it was a good thing I answered she thought to her self
"So" Emily continued "We're having dinner tonight instead"
"Who's we mother?"
"Your father, Myself, You and Rory of course" Emily answered abruptly
"Well mother we'd love to but Rory has a school thing tonight"
"Well I know that Lorelai I just spoke to her, she's coming by after. We'll have dinner and Rory can have hers when she arrives. She said she shouldn't be too late"
"So you shanghaied her hey" Lorelai whispered
"Sorry?" Emily asked
"Nothing. Mom I already have plans for tonight. So unfortunately..."
Emily cut her off "Lorelai your father and I are going out of town and you won't see us for a month the least you can do is attend a dinner with us before we leave. I mean if Rory can do it I'm sure you can too"
Luke walked out for the kitchen and placed Lorelai's meal on the counter.
"Mom I already have plans" Lorelai said as she smiled at Luke
"What plans?"
"Just plans ok"
"If you can't make it I want a good reason. Do you have a date Lorelai?"
"What, no mother I did not have a date." Lorelai sighed, "Mom it's fine. I'll be there okay"
"No Lorelai don't put yourself out for us. I mean we're going to be out of town from the next month and you won't have to see us then, the least you could do..."
Lorelai rolled her eyes "Mom" Lorelai interrupted Emily's rant "I said it's fine. It's ok. I'll be there, and the men in white coats will be there. See you later mom"
Lorelai hung up "Argh"
"You okay?"
"No, my mother just rung to inform me that her and my father are going out of town tomorrow so Friday night dinner has been moved forward to tonight so I have to go to dinner and Rory's not coming until late because she has a school thing. Stupid school so I don't even have back up. At least this is the last dinner for a month." Lorelai took breath from her rant and looked at Luke "Sorry, this means we'll have to put tonight on hold"
"Okay" Luke turned away from her
Lorelai heard the disappointment in his voice "Luke, you know I'd prefer to spent time with you but there's no saying no to my mother, I'd never hear the end of it"
"I could... um.. Come with you, you know...as back up" Luke offered
"It's fine Luke, really"
"Okay" Luke turned, grabbed his cloth and began cleaning the counter.
"You okay?"
"Yeah.. Fine"
"You don't seem fine"
"I'm fine okay" Luke replied shortly
"Okay, well how about I come over after dinner?"
"Whatever"
"Luke what have I done"
"Nothing"
"I obviously have you've gone all monosybolic on me"
Luke didn't say anything for a few seconds, then he looked at Lorelai "Why don't you want me to come with you tonight?"
"What.. Luke I just... I'm just trying to save you from a painful experience, you should thank me"
"Right. Have you told you're parents about us?"
"No not yet"
"Are you going to tell them?"
"I hadn't planned on it"
"Why not?"
"It's just, Luke you don't understand. I just don't tell them things. Things get ugly when I share things with them"
"Sure, okay" Luke began cleaning the same piece of counter space
"Luke, come on. Don't be mad at me. My parents have a way of ruining everything good, I just didn't want them to .. I don't know.. Do what they"
"Uh ha"
"Luke look at me please"
"Lorelai I'm busy, I have things to do and I don't want to have this conversation here in the middle of the diner"
"Luke, I can't believe you're mad at me"
"Are you ashamed of me? Is that it?"
"Luke, No"
"Then let me come with you. We can tell them together. I'll be there for support"
"No, I don't want them to know, not just yet."
"You won't tell your parent's about us, you won't let me come to dinner with you tonight. I mean I love you Lorelai and I want to be apart of your life and that includes your parents. Weather you like it or not they are part of your life and I want to get to know that part of your life."
"Look, you have to see it from my point of view. I just don't want them to do what 'they do'"
Luke through the cloth down on the bench. "Fine Lorelai go to your parents. Don't tell them about me, don't tell them about us because there obviously isn't an 'us'. Do whatever you like" Luke shouted then stomped up the stairs to his apartment.
"Fine" Lorelai shouted back and stormed out of the diner forgetting all about her lunch.
Chapter 17
That afternoon Lorelai was at home changing for dinner at her parents. She sat on her bed and picked up the phone. She started to dial Luke's number then hung up. She'd been thinking about it all day, she just wanted to call him, hear his voice but she wasn't sure he would talk to her now or ever again for that matter. She was mad at Luke for not understanding her side of things and she was mad at herself for not listening to Luke and letting him come. Maybe it wouldn't be that bad? "Who am I kidding" She said aloud to herself. She sat there for a few more minutes tossing around the idea of just calling him. She picked up the phone again and once again put it down. Luke's words "There isn't an us" ringing in her ears. Suddenly she was angry again. "Fine" she said to herself. She stood up, finished getting ready then headed to her parents house.
In the diner Luke looked at the phone. He picked it up and put it straight back down again. He went upstairs to his apartment deciding it would be better to call her where it was private and quiet. He picked up the phone dialed half her number and put it down again.
Lorelai stood outside the Gilmore mansion, her fingers millimeters from the doorbell summoning up the strength to ring it. Lorelai took a deep breath in and pressed the bell.
A moment later Emily opened the front door
"Lorelai you're late" Emily told her daughter
"Well Hello mother, how are you this evening? Yes, well I'm fine, thanks for asking?" Lorelai said as she entered the house.
Emily just shook her head and shut the door behind Lorelai. "Come into the living room when you're finished talking to yourself"
"Stupid stupid school" Lorelai muttered under her breath as she followed her mother cursing the place that had kept Rory from being her backup tonight.
"So where's dad?" Lorelai asked as her mother sat opposite her.
"Oh he's in his study, he'll be out soon"
As if on cue Lorelai heard Richard's footsteps. Lorelai turned to the direction of the sound as her father entered the living room
"Oh Lorelai when did you get here?"
"A minute ago"
"And when will Rory arrive" Richard asked
"She said she shouldn't be too late so she should be here soon" Emily answered
"Not soon enough" Lorelai mumbled under her breath
Later that night Lorelai and Rory where driving back to Stars Hollow.
"Argh thank goodness that was the last dinner for a month. That stupid school of yours. What's with having to stay back and do extra work?"
"What happened when I wasn't there?" Rory asked her mother
"The usual. First the awkward silence, then came Emily's criticisms, my charming wit, Emily's disappointment, more of my charming wit, Emily's death stares in my direction, then lots more silence"
"So the usual Friday night dinner then"
"Except it wasn't Friday and you weren't there trying to change the subject and save me from the evil Emily monster"
"I wasn't that late anyway, you were only there about half an hour by yourself"
"Yeah, well it felt longer" Lorelai pouted
"Hey mom, are you okay?"
"As well as can be expected after tonight"
"No I mean besides dinner tonight are you okay, you seem sad"
"Yeah I'm fine"
Rory looked at her mother deciding whether or not to push it. "Hey mom, why did you tell Grandma that you weren't seeing anyone?"
"What?"
"When you went to the bathroom Grandma told me you said you weren't seeing anyone and asked me if it was true"
"What did you say?"
"Well I didn't know what to say. I didn't want to lie to her but I did say you weren't seeing anyone."
"Well honey then you weren't lying"
"What... you're seeing Luke...aren't you?" Rory asked confused
"Well depends what you mean by seeing Luke. I've seen Luke anyone can see Luke all they have to do is go into the diner and you can see Luke" Lorelai rambled
"Mom what happened?"
Lorelai sighed "We had a fight"
"Want to talk about it?"
"Not yet. This is something I have to sort out myself"
As Lorelai pulled into their driveway Rory noticed a motorbike waiting for them.
Rory looked at her mother "Mom?"
Lorelai noticed a figure sitting on the porch "Christopher"
Rory got out of the car and ran towards her father "Dad" They hugged "What are you doing here?"
"I came to visit my two favorite girls" He kissed Lorelai on the cheek "So where have you two been?"
Lorelai groaned "Parents"
"Tonight?"
"They're going away so obligation Friday was moved forward a couple of days"
"So how long are you staying?" Rory asked
"Not sure. I thought I'd see how things goes"
"You're staying here tonight aren't you?
"If it's ok with your mom" Christopher looked at Lorelai
Lorelai nodded "Yeah, come on let's get inside"
Inside Christopher and Rory caught up on things since Chris' last visit. Lorelai check the answering machine, no messages. She then went upstairs to change. She sat on the bed and stared at the phone. Luke hadn't called. Maybe he was serious; maybe it was really over between them.
Lorelai thought about Christopher and why he was back. Had he really changed, was he back for good? She suddenly forgot all about her fight with Luke and concentrated on Christopher being back. Maybe this time things would be different?
Chapter 18
Lorelai made her way down the stairs. She looked at Rory and Chris talking in the living room. Rory had made the couch up for him to sleep on. It was a nice sight to see her Rory and her dad smiling and laughing. Rory noticed her mother on the stairs. "Come join the fun Mom"
Lorelai walked down the rest of the stairs and sat on the couch next to her daughter. The three of them talked for about an hour before Rory announced she was tired and was going to bed. She said goodnight Lorelai and Chris and headed to her room.
Chris turned on the couch so he was facing Lorelai. "I've really missed her"
"Well she's always here when you want to see her"
"I know, Thanks"
"I've missed you as well"
Lorelai didn't say anything for a while. "So why are you here?"
"I just really need to see Rory and you. I've missed you both"
"Chris" Lorelai began but Christopher interrupted her.
"Look Lor, I know I haven't been around for Rory but I want to now"
"Chris you know you are always welcome in Rory's life I've never stopped that and I never will"
"I know, thanks and..." Chris looked at Lorelai "and I want to be around for you too."
"Chris"
"No Lor let me finish. I've been searching all these years for something that was even close to what you and I have and why am I searching when I have it with you. We are so connected and been through so much. You know me better than anyone."
Chris took Lorelai's hand in his. "I want to be a family - you, me and Rory"
"Chris do you really? I mean a family is hard, it means being here for us all the time. It means being able to support yourself and us. It means all this" Lorelai moved her hands gesturing around the room. "Can you do this, come home to this everyday. Alway be here in the same town?"
"Lor I... can. I know this is a lot to throw at you and I know I have a lot to make up for but I want to. I want to be here."
Lorelai smiled and stood up. "I need to think about this Chris and I honestly think you need to as well. I'm tired can we talk in the morning?"
"Yeah, sure" Lorelai kissed Christopher on the cheek "Night"
"Night Lor"
Lorelai went upstairs to her room and sat on the bed. Her head was spinning. She's waited so long to hear Chris say that to her. To be a family with him and Rory, she always clung to the hope that things would work out between them that Chris would eventually grow up. But now things had changed. When Chris held her hand she didn't feel anything and hadn't for some time now if she was being honest with herself. Lorelai sighed and fell back on the bed. She closed her eyes and tried to forget about everything just for a few moments.
Lorelai woke suddenly and looked at the clock 6:01. She hadn't slept very well, waking every few hours and finding it difficult to get back to sleep so many thoughts running through her head. Chris had now said everything to her that she wanted him to say or what she thought she wanted him to say but now she knew she was wrong. She had been holding onto Chris as if he was a backup but now she knew there was nothing there. She knew the moment she kissed Luke, that was it for her. Lorelai knew she had to make things right.
Lorelai had a quick shower and changed. She made her way downstairs to find Chris sitting on the couch. 'Can't leave him hanging' she thought to herself. Lorelai sat next to Chris on the couch but Chris spoke first. "Lor I'm sorry for what I said last night. I mean I do miss you and Rory so much andIt's just I didn't realize how much I miss you two until I see you again but... I think you were right."
"Right about what?"
"Look I woke up this morning and my first thought was getting on the bike and going for a ride and just riding. You're right. I don't think I can do this. I don't think I can be tired down. As much as I want to be here for you I don't think I can." Chris looked at her apologetically
"I know"
"You know me so well. I'm sorry. I shouldn't have brought up all those things last night and then take them back this morning."
"Chris it's ok. I wasn't completely honest with you last night"
"Honest about what?"
"I'm seeing someone. Well kind of... It's all a bit of a mess right now but I want to make it work."
"Oh... who?"
"Luke, he runs the diner here. It's only pretty new, well this thing between us is new but I've knownLuke for years.We're currently not speaking but I'm going to fix it"
"Not speaking hey and this is only new? Is he sick of you already?"
"Funny. No but it is my fault"
"Do you...love him?"
Lorelai didn't even have to think about her answer "Yes I do"
"He's very lucky. I hope he knows that. Now go and fix whatever needs fixing"
"Thanks Chris. Will you be here when I get back?"
"Not sure. I was going to take Rory for breakfast and then maybe take her to school on the..."
"No!" Lorelai said knowing exactly what he wanted to do.
"Lor come on"
"No way. No way are you taking my baby, my only child on that all the way to Hartford"
"Okay. What about if we take it to getbreakfast?"
"As long as breakfast is no further than our driveway then fine"
"Ok, ok no bike"
Lorelai moved in and gave Chris a hug. "Take care and you are always welcome here you know that"
"Thanks Lor"
Lorelai walked towards the front door "Oh and can you tell Rorythat I've gone to see Luke and I'll see her tonight"
"Will do"
"Bye"
Lorelai jumped into the jeep and took off. She looked at the clock 6:43. She dialed the number on her cell phone and waited.
Finally it was answered "Hello"
"Mom it's me. Now I'm sure there is some sort of rule in the Miss Manners handbook about ringing someone before 8am but I need you to listen. I AM seeing someone. You know him Mom, it's Luke... he runs the diner." Lorelai could imagine thelook of disapproval on her mother's face"Now I know what you're thinking, that he isn't good enough but he is. He has been in my life longer than anyone, he's my best friend and he has done so much for me and for Rory. He loves me mum and Rory and I love him and Rory loves him too."
"Lorelai"
"No Mom. I know you are leaving on your trip later today but I need you to be home for the next couple of hours. You always say I never share anything with you, never let you into my life well I'm going to. I'm going to let you into the most important and exciting thing to happen to meapart from Rory. I'm not doing this for me or for you. I'm doing it for Luke so please mom, please don't turn this into something negative. I'll see you soon"
Lorelai hung up the phone beforeEmily couldanswer, she didn't want to hear her mothers' response she wanted to let her mother think about what she had said.
Lorelai pulled out of the front of the diner and took a deep breath, hopefully Luke would still want to be with her.
Chapter 19
Lorelai walked into the diner she looked around but couldn't see Luke anywhere. Lorelai popped her head into the kitchen "Caesar is Luke here?"
"He's upstairs" Caesar answered
"Thanks"
Lorelai walked to the stairs and looked up. It was now or never. She climbed them slowly and quietly. When she reached the door she knocked softly.
"Caesar I told you not to disturb me today just deal with whatever needs dealing with" Luke's voice yelled out
Lorelai consider turning and leaving but stayed. Lorelai knocked again "Luke, it's me"
Lorelai waited, she couldn't hear anything. Had he heard her? Was he ignoring her? Then the door opened. When she saw Luke her breathing stopped, seeing him now, made her realize she'd missed him more than she was willing to believe.
"You look nice" Lorelai said gesturing to his jeans and sweater he was wearing, another of the sweaters Lorelai had picked out for him.
"I was... going... to come and ...um... see you later" Luke said not looking at her
They both stood there for a minute until Luke stood aside and Lorelai walked into his apartment.
They looked at each other again and spoke at the same time
"I'm sorry"
They both smiled
"Lorelai" Luke began
"No Luke please. I don't admit I'm wrong very often mostly because I'm hardly ever wrong but... I'm sorry. I was scared and I trying to keep you out of that part of my life. I tend to do that, separate everything and well... I shouldn't. I'm scared and I was running and I know I promised I wouldn't but I did but I won't anymore. You are such and important part of my life and Rory's life and if you still want to be a part of it, I want you to be in all parts of my life." Lorelai looked at Luke's face, trying to guess what he was thinking.
Luke looked into her eyes "I do"
"Good. I hate fighting with you"
"I know"
"Are we okay?" Lorelai asked in a whisper
Luke smiled and nodded. Lorelai walked over to Luke and wrapped her arms around his waist. "I love you Luke I really do"
Luke ran his hand through her hair "I love you too" Luke took her face in his hands and kissed her deeply. After a while Lorelai pulled back, smiled and grabbed his hand. "Come on"
"What? Where?" Luke asked as Lorelai was pulling him towards the door.
"Luke trust me ok. I want to do this"
"Do what?" Luke asked confused
"Will you just come on"
Lorelai pulled Luke down the stairs. He asked to wait a second while he told Caesar he was going out and to call him on Lorelai's cell if there were any problems.
"So, where are we going?" Luke asked as Lorelai began driving towards their destination
"Mexico"
"Lorelai?"
"I told you I want you to be apart of my life, every part of my life so we have a few stops to make. First my parents"
"What, Lorelai I'm not dressed right to meet your parents"
"Luke they've seen you before and you are minus the flannel today so you're fine"
"I want to make a good impression"
"You will."
Luke suddenly felt extremely nervous. Yes he wanted to be included in her life but he didn't expect it to be like this. He hadn't really prepared for it.
Lorelai saw the look of sheer panic on Luke's face and put her hand on his thigh. "Hon, you will be fine. I really want to do this and they're going away today so now is the only time. I don't want to wait."
Luke still wasn't sure "but I... I'm not ready to meet them like this"
"Luke trust me this is the perfect time. We'll drop in and say hi and then we'll leave. It's way better than a Friday night dinner where we are obliged to stay for drinks, dinner, desert and Emily's walk through of everything I've done wrong in my life"
Lorelai pulled up in front of the Gilmore house. "Here we are!"
Luke looked at the mansion in front of him "Where Buckingham Palace?"
"This my friend is where I grew up"
Luke didn't say anything he just stared at the large building infront of him.
"Come on"
Luke got out of the jeep and took a deep breath trying to control his nerves. Lorelai took Luke's hand and laced her fingers through his. She turned to face him and kissed him. "Just remember, I love you"
Luke suddenly felt better, hearing Lorelai say that made everything seem fine. He began to calm down. Lorelai wouldn't let Luke know it but she was nervous as well. After her call to her mother and hanging up on her she was sure that Emily would be in fine form. Lorelai just clung to the hope that Emily had actually listened to what she was saying and she reminded herself they could leave at anytime if things got nasty.
Lorelai rang the bell and they both waited. The maid answered and let Lorelai and Luke in. She told them Emily was upstairs making sure she packed everything and that she would be down soon.
Lorelai lead Luke into the living room and then on a mini tour through a few other downstairs rooms.
Luke still hadn't said anything, he was trying to control his nerves and trying to take it all in.