AN: Hi there! First I would like to thank Angelpete87, 1trueluv, and Guest for taking the time to review. It really means a lot that you three have loyally reply to my story. I also like to thank those how have favorite/follow my story. It would be nice to see you guys leave me a review. I know its been a while since I've last updated but I'm proud to say that I have met someone. So you can say that my single days are over! He has been very good to me and is a special person in my life. And I do miss you all so I am super cite to be back! This is another one of my personal favorite chapter so I hope you all will enjoy it. As promised there are plenty of Jacey scenes. Enjoy!

1trueluv - Thank you so much, hon. I appreciate your comments. Don't worry, there will be plenty of Pacey in this chapter/episode ;)

Guest - Thank you for your wonderful comments. Reading your replies makes me smile so thank you for that :). Yes, as promised there will be Jacey time, lol.

Spelling/Grammar/Vocabulary: Please forgive any of these mistakes since I am not very good at this. Not really good at punctuations and use of vocabulary but please just bare with me.

Disclaimer: I don't own Dawson's Creek it belongs to the WB and Kevin Williamson.


Episode 5: Hurricane

There is a time when you wish that you can go back and do things differently. To start over again. Maybe even to right your wrongs. It's funny how life could be sometimes. Even if you didn't mean to hurt the ones you love; somehow you still manage to do so.

Life could be cruel. It can make you do stupid things. Even if you meant to or not - you still manage to disappoint the other. Including yourself.

It was a long night and my parents are still at it. Arguing back and forth with one another. Glass are being broken by my father from his frustration. My mom over at a corner crying her heart out. And as for me ... I couldn't do nothing but wait. Wait to see what will happen next. My parents anniversary is less than an hour away and everything is already falling apart. Little do any of us know that there is a storm heading our way. It is as if my parents marriage is being tested by the eye of a storm ...


The news has been broadcast throughout Capeside that Hurricane Chris is heading their way. All schools were being closed and there is a warning that all Capeside citizens are to boarder their house and stay home. Also to make sure that there is enough food and water along with candles and/or flashlight for their safety.


It was crazy. When the news got out that Hurricane Chris was heading our way; my father and I was quick to get right into work with closing things down tightly and bordering up our windows. It was insane considering we have way too many windows at our house. Looking around I could see storm clouds are rapidly forming and a gust of wind picking up quite strongly.

I took a look over at my father as I watch him banging his hammer through the nail with great aggression. He seem pretty focus as he went through one nail after another. From his expression on his face, I could tell that my father is still very pissed. Watching him as he hammer away, by the looks of it, he is taking his anger out on those nails as if they are Bob himself that he is beating the hell out of. Ever since we came outside, my father haven't said much. Not knowing what to do, I kept my mouth shut afraid that if I say the wrong thing - he would explode and take it out on me.

I've notice he kept his distance from my mom as if he was afraid if he stay in the same room with her long enough, he might do something that he will regret. He didn't even once look at her or acknowledge her present whenever they do come across each other by passing. It was as if she was invisible to him.

I could tell it really hurt my mom to see her husband act so coldly this way toward her. It was so bad watching these two that I actually was starting to feel sorry for her. I know she did wrong but I could tell just by looking at her, she felt really bad for what she had done. I knew she feel that she needed someone by her side to let her know that everything is going to be okay. Even if it was a lie, she needed to hear it.

She needed her son to comfort her.

Seeing as my father have got this under control - plus not to mention he look like he could use a time to himself; I've decided to go back into the house to see what my mother was up to.

When I walked in I notice she was on the phone talking with someone. Not sure who that someone is but I caught the end of the conversation.

"Okay then. See you soon. Bye." Was all she said as she press the end button on the phone. Surprise to see her son standing there she attempt to give him a small smile. "Is there anything you need, sweetie?" she asked.

Curious to want to know who she was just on the phone with; I pray to God that it wasn't Bob. If it was, what the hell was she thinking? Does she not know that dad is right outside with murder in his eyes? Does my mother have a death wish?

"Mom? Who was that on the phone?"

"Hum?" Confused for a moment because he didn't answer her question, Gail quickly recover when she realize what her son was referring to as she notice that she was still clutching the phone in her hand. "Oh, I'm sorry. That was Mrs. Ryan. I've invited her and her granddaughter over to stay with us until the storm is over."

"Oh ..." was all I could muster up. I couldn't help but to think about the last time I saw Jen. It wasn't pretty. In fact, I haven't spoken to her since when I found out her big secret. I was doing pretty well with avoiding her up until now. I knew eventually I will have to face her someday. I just didn't think that someday will be today.

"I figure that they could stay with us instead of being alone during a storm," Gail continue. "I hope that's ok with you? I've notice that you and Jen aren't in speaking terms."

"Of course. It's fine."

"Good. Then you wouldn't mind letting your father know I've invited them over? I'm sure he would understand," Gail said.

"Sure."

"Oh, and Dawson ..."

"Yeah?"

Gail paused for a moment as she looked at her son. "You don't have to worry about Bob. I'm ending it with him."

With that last statement, I couldn't help but to smile with relief.


I can't believe this. Why did I get stuck here - yet again - with my brother doing some kind of charity work? I could be home right now in bed catching up on my sleep, watching soaps, enjoying the storm. But instead, I'm here at the beach with Doug posting out the "No Swimming" sign. This should be the time for me to relax and enjoy my day off from school. Not walking around the beach doing this.

"You know, I don't understand why you couldn't do this yourself," I said just as I saw my brother walking up towards me.

"Oh, come on, Pacey. You know this is dad orders. Whatever he says goes. Deal with it," Doug said a bit annoyed.

"Whatever he says goes. Deal with it," I mimic Dougie's words back at him.

I could tell it irritate him a bit because he stop on his tracks as he turn to glare daggers back at me. I didn't care. I'm bored. The only thing to satisfy my boredom is to bug Doug. Which by the look on his face seems to tell me that it is working.

"You know, Pace, if you would just help out more than maybe dad wouldn't be on your case."

"Whatever, Doug."

"Yeah, whatever. That's all you could say," Doug fired back.

"What about you?"

"What do you mean what about me?"

"Do you always have to do what dad says? Why can't you be a man and say 'no' for once? Sometimes I wonder about you."

Fed up, Doug march up to Pacey. "And what's that suppose to mean?"

Well looky here. Dougie is starting to feel insecure. "What? You afraid that I have found you out?"

"I don't know what you are talking about, Pace. Why don't you stop goofing around and help me with this. The faster we do this the quicker we'll get done," Doug said as he start to walk back.

"You know you only prolonging the inevitable. Why can't you just admit it?"

"Admit what?! Pacey ... why don't you just shut up and leave me alone?"

"It's ok, Doug," I pressed on, "you don't have to be ashamed of who you are. I've notice the way you look at other men."

"That's it! Pacey! I'm not gay!" Doug shouted at him as he threw down the signs he was holding.

"Whoa. Okay okay. Calm down," I said with mock surrender. God, it is so easy to push his buttons.

"I'm warning you, Pace," Doug breathe out heavily.

"I said okay. I won't bring it up again. Geez."

After a beat, Doug seem to take his word for it because he didn't say nothing else as he turn back to pick up the signs he had throw down.

Following behind him, I couldn't help to ask, "Do you think when we are finish with this we could stop by the Potter house?"

"Pacey!"


What to do? There is a massive storm coming, my sister is pregnant, and her boyfriend Bodie is out of town no where in sight to help us in a situation like this! I'm just an ordinary teenage girl who still have a whole life ahead of her. How am I suppose to take care of my sister and myself in a dangerous situation like this? I wish that Bodie hadn't left. I wish that he would still be here with us instead of going off to some chef school. Why did this storm have to come around the time when Bodie isn't here?

Instead, I have to sit here listen to my sister order me around on how to do things because obviously she can't do it since she is all blown up like a big balloon. And to think that situation like this would get us closer.

It doesn't.

Ever since we heard that there is going to be a hurricane in Capeside - my sister and I have been arguing nonstop. We seem to can't see eye-to-eye on things. Whatever I do is wrong and she had to be right all the time. She got me so mad that I almost lost it wanting to tell her to "go to hell!" But I held my tongue because I knew better than to say that knowing that she would be the one that would send me there instead. That is if the storm doesn't take me first.

"No, Jo, you're doing it wrong again," Bessie complain.

"Bess, I'm doing the best I can," I reply back.

"Well try harder. I don't see what is so hard to drive a nail through a wood plank, is all I'm saying," she added.

"Look, Bess, if you want to do it yourself than be my guess," I said as I had enough of her voice.

"Joey, you know I can't. My back hurts -"

"Than stop complaining and let me do my job!" I shouted at her.

Bessie looked at Joey with shock and surprise. She was just trying to get Joey to do this one simple task and all her little sister can do is give her attitude. She didn't have time for Joey's tantrum. It was already bad enough that Bodie isn't here. It is times like this when she realize how much she depend on him.

"You better watch that tone of yours. I may be your sister but I am still your guardian," Bessie said.

Joey let out a sigh as she turn to her sister. "Look, I'm sorry. But I can't do things right when you are sitting there criticizing my every move," she said.

"It's ok. I'm sorry, too. It's just that Bodie isn't here and I'm taking my anger out at you. I mean I am happy that Bodie is doing something for himself - but do it have to be at the wrong possible time? I'm scared, Jo. I need him. I need Bodie here with us."

Okay, so it's truth time, Joey thought as she looked at her sister feeling sorry. To be honest she is scared, too. The thought of a teenage girl and a pregnant women alone during a storm is very frightening. What if something were to go wrong? What will they do then? How could they manage to do this by themselves?

As if the gods above were listening, there was a knock at their door. Quick to answer the door to see who it was; both girls had the same thought that Bodie maybe somehow found a way to come home. But when Joey open the door and saw who it was - she never thought that she would see the day how happy she is to see Pacey and his brother standing on her doorstep.


The wind was picking up rather rapidly as Jen and her grandmother walk up to the Leery's household. Mitch was standing at the door as he greet them in. Noticing the bag of clothes Mrs. Ryan was carrying, Mitch quickly took a hold of her bag as he instruct Dawson to give Jen a hand as well. Since the storm is going to last all night, his mother thought it best that they should stay the night with them. Listening to his father, Dawson stopped what he was doing as he walk slowly towards Jen. Noticing the anticipation in her eyes, he could tell that she is anxious to see him.

Avoiding eye contact, Dawson snatched the bag from Jen's hand as he quickly walk pass her and headed straight to the guest room where she will be staying. Jen stood frozen as she watch Dawson's retreating figure as he disappear into another room. Sighing to herself, Jen knew that it's not going to be easy staying under the same roof with Dawson Leery.

As the storm approaches, Jen looked outside at the gray sky as she thought how the weather seem to mimic her exact feelings at the moment. Never did she thought that Dawson was going to be this way towards her. He was the first guy she met in Capeside who was actually nice to her. He was the first guy that she had generally fallen for.

And now ... it just seem like a lost memory.

She don't know if the relationship they have will ever get better. Or if they would ever get back together. But she do know one thing; she is not going to give up without a fight. Being here under the same roof seems like a blessing on her part. It's like the gods are giving her a second chance. A chance to make things right with Dawson.

Jen finally found her footing as she walk into the living room. Noticing the tension between Mitch and Gail, Jen looked over at her grandmother as she caught her eye, both sharing that same knowing look. Wanting to leave the adults to themselves, Jen decide to look for Dawson.

She found him in his bedroom sitting at his desk as he seem to be in deep thought. She knocked on his door before entering not waiting for his response.

"Hey there, stranger," she tried for a lighter mood.

"What are you doing in here?" Dawson responded coldly.

Still noticing that he haven't made eye contact with her, Jen slowly walk towards him. "I wanted to see how you are doing," she said but stopped short when he looked up at her with blazing eyes.

Dawson snickered before replying. "Oh, I am doing just fine," he said sarcastically. "Jen, why don't you do me a favor and get out. I don't feel like talking right now."

"Why are being so cold towards me?" she asked shocked by his behavior.

Dawson stood up quickly as he brushed pass her. "I want you to leave," he said.

Fed up, Jen turned quickly toward him. "I will as soon as you get your head out of your ass!"

"Excuse me!" he yelled as he walked up to her face.

"Look, Dawson, I get that you're mad -"

"Mad? Huh. That's an understatement," he snickered.

"But I will not stand here and let you treat me this way! You don't even know the whole story."

"Oh please, Jen, why don't you just save it. Okay? What excuse could there be with you sleeping with half of New York!"

Slap!

Dawson stood shock as he felt the sting on his cheek where Jen had slapped him. He knew he went too far when he had basically called her a slut. He didn't mean what he had said. He was hurt and he wanted to hurt her back. But looking at her now made him realize that he had made a mistake. He was still angry with his mother for what she had done that he had took all his anger out at Jen and Joey as well. He didn't mean to cause any kind of problems with either of them. But now it's his turn to try and fix it.

"Jen, I'm -" he didn't get to finish his apology as Jen quickly brushed pass him leaving his room.


A small smile creep her lips as she stood at the door looking back at Pacey. Forgetting that Doug was also standing there, he looked back and forth between Joey and Pacey. Both teenagers were sharing the same smirks on their face. Doug rolled his eyes at the both of them. Little did he know the real meaning behind those smirks. Well, at least with one of them that is. Joey is smirking because she and her sister finally have the opposite gender sex of males who can help them get by around the house through the storm. As for Pacey ... he is just happy to see Joey.

"Joey, is that Bodie at the door?" Bessie asked as she stood behind Joey when she came to the door. "Oh! Hey guys," she said as soon as she saw that it was both Pacey and Doug.

"Pacey thought it was a good idea to stop by and see how you were doing," Doug explained.

"Well I'm glad that he did because we could use your help," Bessie said to Doug.

"Why? Where's Bodie?" asked Pacey.

"He's an intern at a chef school in Italy," Joey replied.

"Wow. Good for him," Pacey said.

"Yeah, well, the timing couldn't be more wrong," said Bessie.

Doug gave her a wary smile as Joey move aside to let the two boys in. As soon as they made it in, the storm clouds roared as the first set of heavy rainfall start to come crashing down. Which cause both boys to quickly get right to work.

After the quick work they did with boarding the rest of the house and making sure that everything was stabilized, Pacey and Joey decide to leave Bessie and Doug alone to themselves as they went to Joey's bedroom. Pacey closed the door behind him when he entered after Joey. Looking around he realized that this is the first time he had ever been in her room. To his surprise her room look like any other ordinary girls room. He should know since he have two sisters. But looking at her room now, he expected it to be more of a tomboyish kind of look. More like Joey, not Josephine.

Pacey caught Joey's eye as she looked at him intently. "Is there something wrong?" she asked.

"No," he said as he cleared his throat. "I just never seen your bedroom before."

Joey rolled her eyes good naturedly. "It's just a room, Pace. No need to get excited about it."

"Right," Pacey said as he smiled. But his smile quickly turn more into a shock as he dropped his mouth wide open at what he saw on her bedside table.

Joey stopped smiling as he brows creased with curiosity as to why Pacey is looking like that. Turning to see what he is looking at, Joey held her breath as she realize what he had discovered. Closing her eyes for a brief moment, she hoped to God that this is not what Pacey is actually looking at. But deep down she knew that it is exactly what he is looking at.

"Jo? Why do you have a picture of me by your bed?" Pacey asked surprised.

Of course, the first thing he would point out that it is by her bed. Joey couldn't help but to cringe at that. The last thing she want was for him to misunderstand the situation. She knew it look bad, but she didn't know how to explain how she got the picture in the first place.

A year ago ...

The bell ring indicating that school is over as everyone rushed out of class and headed straight to their lockers. Joey place the books that she need in her book bag as she headed out the school building. She remember Bessie told her to stop by the store to grab a few things they would need when she get out of school.

Heading to the nearest store, Joey grab a cart as she start going down an aisle. Grabbing a few things she knew they need, Joey didn't notice Mrs. Witter standing a few feet ahead of her. Concentrating on the items in front of her, Joey didn't hear Mrs. Witter calling out to her.

It was probably because she was calling out the wrong name ...

"Joanna? Hey, Joanna!" Mrs. Witter came up to Joey to catch her attention.

"Oh, hi, Mrs. Witter. I didn't see you standing there," Joey said surprise to see Pacey's mom standing in front of her.

"It's okay," Mrs. Witter said as she waved it off. "I can tell you were focused on what to get."

Joey blushed a little as she downcast her eyes. She don't know why but there is something about Mrs. Witter that makes her nervous.

"Anyways, I'm glad that I ran into you. Since I know that you are one of Pacey's closest friends, I wanted to give you a picture of him. It's a good thing that I kept it in my purse," she said as she search through her purse for the photo.

Joey watch Mrs. Witter with puzzlement as she try to figure out why on earth would Mrs. Witter would want to give her a picture of Pacey?

Happy to find what she was looking for, Mrs. Witter quickly took the photo out her purse and hand it over to Joey.

Looking at Mrs. Witter for a sec, Joey slowly took the picture from her hand. As she grab the picture, she was surprise to see how handsome Pacey looked. Usually he is this goofy kid that she couldn't stand. But looking at this picture now made him look more mature. He almost look as though she could tolerate being around him. It's funny how a simple picture could reflect on how a person could feel.

Mrs. Witter watch carefully at Joey's reaction as she look on at the picture. Noticing the surprise look on her face, Mrs. Witter smiled to herself as she confirm what she had already know. Nodding with approval, Mrs. Witter went on to say, "I had this photo and thought of you."

Joey quickly looked up at Mrs. Witter when she said that. 'Why did she thought of me?' Joey asked herself.

"Pacey doesn't know that I'm giving it to you. You must promise me that you won't mention this to him."

'Don't worry I won't,' Joey thought to herself. If Pacey ever found out that she had a picture of him and she thought that he actually look good in it - she wouldn't hear the end of it. This would be the perfect opportunity for him to tease her endlessly for the rest of their lives.

"I promise. I won't say anything to him," she said.

Mrs. Witter smiled with appreciation. "Good. He gets kind of antsy when I give his friends a photo of him," she said as if that were to answer Joey's silent question.

Joey nod with understanding as she place the photo in her bag.

"Oh, and, Joanna," Mrs. Witter turn back towards Joey as she realize that she almost forgot to tell her something. "I'm really glad that Pacey has you as a friend. He seem to be better whenever you are around."

With that last statement, she smiled at Joey and gave her a little wink before she turn back and went to the cash out line.

To save face, Joey act as if she didn't know what he is talking about. "I don't know what you're talking about, Pace."

Pacey smirked as he looked at her. God, why does she have to be so damn cute, he thought. Walking up towards her slowly, Pacey watched as her eyes grew big. He really wanted to kiss her at that moment but he was having way too much fun making her squirm. Picking up the photo from her bedside table, Pacey looked at the picture of him. He smirked some more as he remembered taking that photo. It was one of his best photos he had ever taken. He had to silently thank his mother for giving Joey his favorite photo of him.

Joey watched as Pacey looked at the photo. There was something going on between them which by far left her feeling a bit uneasy. Joey swallow a huge lump in her throat as she watch Pacey slowly turn back to face her. What she saw next had nearly made her jump out of her skin. Pacey's face was coming dangerously close towards her. Not knowing what to do because by God he always seem to have this kind of affect on her, she stood rooted to her spot as she realize that he wasn't aiming for her lips like she thought.

Pacey leant to her ear as he smirked at her. He knew exactly what she was thinking. Idiot, he thought to himself. But a very cute idiot, he went on. "You know. Looking at this photo of me got me thinking that you could have used it as a dart board. I'm surprised that you didn't even do it," he said in her ear.

Joey pushed him away from her as he laughed and place the photo back on her bedside table.

"Jerk!" she yelled. "Believe me the thought has crossed my mind. But then I thought better of it and decide to put it in a frame."

Pacey smirked as he kept a close eye on her. "You like me, don't you?" he joked.

"Pacey!" she shouted as she hit him hard on the shoulder.

Than suddenly a loud clap of thunder had roared.


The power went out leaving everything in complete darkness. Mitch was quick to go to the storage room to retrieve some candles and a flashlight. Running into Dawson on the way to the storage room, Dawson opt to help his father with the candles. Placing the candles around the house so they will have a light to see, both men carried on silently as they work. Unspoken words of understanding were in the air as father and son work together with lighting each candle. Every once in a while they would glance at each other and share the same wary smile as they enjoy just being alone together like this. Where there is just complete silence and no drama. The only thing that they could hear is the sound of a roaring thunder which pretty much shook the entire house.

Gail was sitting in the living room with a glass of white wine in her hand. She was sitting alone in a glow of a flickering lit candle. Her mind wandering on how to fix things with her husband. Mitch have been avoiding her all day and all she ever want to do is talk to him. She made a huge mistake, she realize this which is way she is determined to want to make it right. But Mitch is not making it easy on her. For the first time in her twenty years of marriage life, Gail have no clue on what to do to win her husband back.

Taking a sip of her glass of wine, Gail didn't realize Mrs. Ryan walked into the room. Evelyn have been watching Gail for quiet some time since she arrived at the Leery's household. She knew that something has been troubling Gail but felt that it wasn't her place to interfere. But watching her now, she couldn't help but to confront her about her problems. Maybe with a little talk she could help Gail decide what to do with her problems.

"I don't think this storm is going to settle down any time soon," Evelyn said as she took a seat on a chair across from Gail.

"I think this storm is punishing me with all the pain that I caused," Gail mumbled.

"Trouble in paradise?" Evelyn asked as she gave Gail a pointed look.

"I guess you can say that," Gail answered.

"Look, I know it's not my place but if I learned anything for all the years that I have lived on this God given earth; is that no matter how much you hurt the person that you love - they will always find it in their heart to forgive you," Evelyn pointed out.

Gail thought for a moment to what Mrs. Ryan had just said. She hoped to God that Mitch would find it in his heart to forgive her. But still ... she have doubts that things won't ever get better.

"What if he doesn't forgive me?" she had to ask.

Mrs. Ryan thought for a moment before replying. "If it does come to that. Just remember not to expect him to forgive you right away. Sometime these things take time. Only time will tell when he will come back around. Just remember, dear, give him some time to adjust. By then, he will come around." Evelyn stood up and left Gail on her own with her thoughts.

Just when Mrs. Ryan left the living room, right on cue, Mitch happen to walk into the room. Stopped short when he notice Gail on the sofa, Mitch was about to leave the room until Gail called out to him.

"Please don't go. I really want to talk," Gail said hopeful.

"We already said what need to be said," Mitch mumbled.

"Mitch, please!" Gail cried.

"Fine," Mitch conceited as he turn back and took a seat on the sofa next to Gail. "Let's talk."

Racking her brain to find the words she wanted to say, she couldn't find any. To be honest, she didn't expect him to agree for a talk. Now that he have she don't know where to start.

Mitch watched his wife as he notice her struggling to start a conversation. Snickering to himself he thought, this is so like Gail. Seeing her like this made him thought back on how he had fell in love with her in the first place. Figuring that she is not going to be the first one to speak, he opt to go first.

"The first time I saw you it was on a pier at the Marina, you were with that girlfriend of yours. The women who never shut up. She just talk, talk, talk all the time I could never remember her name. It was, uh, some kind of a soap opera name like Alexis, Dorian -"

"Phoebe," Gail answered as she plaster a smile on her face.

"That's right, Phoebe," Mitch nodded. "And for the minute Phoebe introduced us I knew that I loved you."

Mitch gazed at Gail for a brief moment.

"I mean it was that quick you know because love comes that quick - it's like a decision. Love is a decision that you make. And I made it right then and there on the spot." Mitch looked at Gail as he pause for a moment. "What I need for you to know ... is that our love came quick and it's lasted," he said as he reached out his hand to caress her face.

Gail closed her eyes as she relish the feel of her husband hand caressing her cheek.

"It has weathered the storm," then suddenly he had removed his hand . "But as quickly as I made that decision twenty years ago to love you. I'm taking it back."

Gail's heart stopped as she heard those words come out of his mouth.

"I don't want to love you anymore. I choose to hate you now," he said with rage.

Shaking her head, Gail cried out, "No, Mitch. Don't -"

"I'm sorry that I'm just like that," he said with an attitude. "So I suggest you get out of my face! Cause I don't want to see you."

Gail cried harder as she looked at the man she had loved changed before her eyes. Never in their twenty years of life have she ever seen Mitch this way. He had somehow became a complete stranger to her. And it was all her fault. She had made him that way. He is no longer the man she married. That man is dead now because of her. Getting up quickly, Gail left the room leaving her heart behind.

Meanwhile ...

Jen was sitting on the bed in the guest room where she is staying. Sitting in the dark as tears streaming down her face, there was a knock on the door as Dawson turned the knob and poked his head in when he didn't hear any response. Seeing the room in complete darkness, Dawson stepped into the room holding the candlestick in his hand he than spotted Jen on the bed. Closing the door behind himself he just stood by the now closed door as he didn't know what to do next. The last time he and Jen talked it didn't go too well. He came to find her asking for her forgiveness. But he's too ashamed to even do so.

Jen quickly wiped the tears from her face as soon as she saw Dawson enter the room. Turning her head away from him, she didn't want him to see her cry.

"Jen, I -"

"You want to know why I did what I did?" Jen interrupt as she was ready to tell him everything.

Dawson stood still for a moment as he looked at her. He did want to know why she did those things. Maybe if she tell him then he would understand. Walking slowly to the bed, Dawson sat on the edge as he waited for her to start explaining.

"My father was a good man," she started, "he would take me places. Tuck me in to bed at night. And when I got hurt, he knew exactly what to do to make me feel better. I guess you could say that he was my hero," she smiled bitterly.

Dawson didn't say a word as he listen on to what she had to say.

"But one day something has changed. Suddenly I didn't become daddy's little girl anymore because he stopped paying attention to me. He kept busy with his work and when he is home he never had time for me.

"I remember this one time I had asked my mom if a friend of mine can come over and stay the night. My mother agreed and I was very happy. I finally made a friend for the first time and I was excited for her to come over and meet my parents. Which turned out great because both my mother and father even liked her. She had won them over with her charms and that made me happy because for the first time in a long time I saw my father as he once was before. He started to pay attention to me and took an interest of my life. It was all because I had invited my friend over.

"It was the middle of the night when I had woke up to use the bathroom. On my way I had heard a noise coming from the living room. So I went to check it out to see what it was and when I got there ..."

Jen paused as she compose herself to what she is about to say next.

"What I saw was my father sleeping with my suppose BFF. He was having sex with my friend, Dawson, and I - just couldn't believe my eyes. The next day I confronted her about it and she just laughed in my face and said that I was crazy. She told me that she didn't want to be my friend anymore and I was fine with that. I mean, why would I want to be friends with someone who sleeps with their friends father?

"I was so pissed at my dad that I went to my mother and told her what I saw," Jen stopped talking as she turned to look at Dawson who was sitting there quietly. "She didn't believe me. So you see, Dawson, you are not the only one with some family issues."

Dawson looked at Jen with sorrow in his eyes. He didn't know. Of course he didn't know because he didn't asked. He knew where the rest of the story was heading.

"So in order for me to know how to deal with my problems, I buried my sorrow by hanging with the wrong crowd. Doing drugs, drinking alcohol, going to outrageous parties. And even losing my virginity," she said that last part as she looked right at him. "I guess you could say that I became a problem and a disgrace to my family because they didn't know how to handle me when I was acting out. So they sent me here instead. And that's how I wound up staying with my Grams here in Capeside," she finished.

Dawson, on the other hand, was lost for words. All he could think of is that he had messed up. He misjudged her and had called her all kinds of names. Not knowing the real reason behind her behavior. He didn't know what to say so he figured he would just do what he knew he could do best. Making eye contact, Dawson held his eyes on her as he lean in and kissed her.


"Here we go," Doug said as he walked into the living room placing a plate in front of Bessie and himself. "To be honest, I don't know what the hell this is. I just threw anything that I can find together and called it dinner. I'm pretty sure it's eatable," he said as he picked up his plate and sniffed it to be sure that anything on his plate isn't rotten.

Bessie smiled as she examined the plate in front of her. It certainly isn't the most attractive dish she had ever seen. But she can't fault Doug considering that all the power had went out. At least he tried to whip up something for them. But her heart is set on pizza. Too bad they couldn't order any no thanks to that damn storm.

"Well, I'm sure you wouldn't mind it assuming you must have some of those weird pregnancy cravings," Doug said as he study Bessie staring at her plate.

"What?" she looked up at him. Didn't realize that her mind have drifted off elsewhere.

"Where's your head at?" he asked concern.

"Oh, I'm sorry, Doug. I keep thinking about Bodie. I didn't realize how much I miss him. If he was here, he usually know how to whip up something for us. No offense to you, of course! I'm sure this is great," Bessie rushed on.

Doug held up his hand as he said, "None taken. And you don't have to be nice. I know this is gross. Sorry I couldn't deliver."

"It's fine. Really. This is a nice gesture. And like you said ... I'm sure it is eatable," she said as she took a bite; surprised to find out that it is not gross at all.

"How is it?" Doug asked looking unsure.

"Surprisingly delicious," Bessie smiled.

Doug blow out a sigh of relief as he took a bite himself. His eyes lit up when he realize it wasn't so bad after all.

"See? I told you," Bessie said as they continue to eat their meal.

Meanwhile, a loud crash was heard coming from Joey's room which made both Bessie and Doug jump as their attention turn towards her bedroom.

"What are they doing in there?" Bessie asked as her eyes stayed glue to the closed door to Joey's bedroom.

Doug shook his head as he muttered, "I have no idea."

OoO

"Pacey! You nearly broke my lamp, you jerk!" Joey shrieked.

"Sor-ry. Who told you to place that thing there anyway," he said referring to her standing lamp that he had knocked over. "It damned near killed me!"

"Oh please, don't exaggerate. You big baby," Joey said with a roll of her eyes. "You just need to watch where you're going, smartass."

Pacey just smirked as he turn to look at her. She look so gorgeous with the flickering glow coming from the lantern they placed in her room. He could be like this with her forever. Just the two of them. Bickering back and forth as they enjoy each others company. He could definitely see a future with her. A future he wouldn't mind having as long as he have her by his side. Nothing else matters. It was at that moment he realize just how much he love the girl that is standing in front of him. He would do anything for her. If she ever told him to jump off a cliff - he would do it in a heartbeat. He would do just about anything just to please her. She is his main priority. That is a promise.

"Pacey, don't move," Joey said as she saw something move across the floor pass Pacey along the way.

"What is it?" Pacey asked concern.

"I thought I saw something move pass by you," she pointed to the spot where she saw it on the floor.

Looking around, Pacey didn't see anything on the floor. Now whose exaggerating? He thought to himself with a shake of his head. "I hate to break it to you, toots, but there's nothing there," he said.

"Pacey ... I know what I saw," she said just when she caught something from the corner of her eye. Turning to look, she notice that it is a rat!

Reacting quickly, Joey yelped as she ran and jumped in Pacey's arms - both legs on either side of his waist as he quickly grab a hold of her legs from underneath to hold her firmly upright to him. Both their faces merely inches apart.

Not knowing what made her suddenly react this way, he was not going to complain considering he had always imagined them being in this position in his fantasies. Except in his version it was a bit more x-rated. Something he shouldn't let his mind drift to when he is currently holding her like this.

With a clear of his throat he asked, "Jo, are you okay?"

With a nod of her head she said, "Yeah, I'm fine. I'm sorry I jumped on you like that. I saw a rat. I hate rats," she explained.

"It's ok. Feel free to jump on me anytime," he joked. Except that he wasn't.

Joey rolled her eyes good-natured as she playfully hit him on the chest. Looking around she couldn't see that damn rat anywhere.

"Pace?"

"Yeah?"

"Um, I think you can put me down now," she said timidly.

"Oh right," he said as he loosen his hold on her legs. Leaving her to slide her legs down so she can stand on her two feet.

"So, uh, this is a bit awkward. Right?"

"No. Not really. Stuff like this happen to us all the time," Pacey joked.

Joey just smirked as she shook her head. "Only you, Pace, would say something like that. That's what I like about you. You know exactly how to make me feel better and not at all made me feel silly and embarrassed. Which is why I am not ashamed to say that you are my true best friend."

Shocked at her words, Pacey was taken aback at what she had just said. "What?"

Rolling her eyes Joey said, "I said that you are my best friend, Pacey. I know now that I can count on you for anything."

His heart beat a mile a minute as he had longed to hear her say those words to him.


The sky cleared up the next morning as Hurricane Chris came to its end. The city residents were free to resume to their daily lives. Although, there were much for them to clean up after. Hurricane Chris had left quite a mess for the Capesiders. There were already some city residents who were out early started cleaning up the city area. Students who go to school doesn't start back school in another two weeks which was great news for them.

Pacey and Joey was still asleep as Pacey held Joey in his arms while she rest her head on his chest. Both unaware of the position they happen to be in as they slept comfortably. After staying up late last night sitting on her bed, Pacey and Joey took turns on a watch for that god awful rat that Joey had seen. But the rat still haven't made its reappearance which led her to think that it must have escaped.

Pacey turn out to be great company as he stayed with her and talked all night. But somewhere down the line they must have fallen asleep. So, now, here they are in each other arms as they continue to sleep peacefully.

Meanwhile, last night, Bessie had left Doug and Pacey a room to share in their guest bedroom. She had retired early and told Doug that whenever Pacey comes out to let him know that they will be sharing a room. Doug agree to her request except that Pacey haven't come out of Joey's room all night. Giving up waiting, Doug went to the guest room that Bessie lent him to sleep at - figuring that Pacey and Joey needed some alone time. It didn't matter to him because it only means that he get to keep the guest bedroom to himself. He really didn't want to share a room with his little brother. By Pacey not being there, he slept really good all night.

By the next morning, he had forgotten that he had left Pacey in Joey's room alone all night. Not sure what this will mean for Bessie if she finds out that Pacey stayed all night in Joey's room. To him it doesn't matter because he knows that Joey seem like the kind of girl that could hold her won but he could also understand Bessie's point of view when it comes toward his brother. Jumping up out of bed quickly, Doug dash into the living room which lead to Joey's bedroom. By the time he got there he could already see that he was too late as Bessie stood at the doorway standing still as she looked on in the bedroom.

Not sure what she was staring at, Doug kind of panicked as he called out to her. Bessie turn to look at him as she put a finger to her lips indicating for him to be quiet. Curious as to what she was looking at, Doug started to walk towards her slowly. By the time he reach her, he turn in to see what she was looking at. What he saw kind of brought a small smile to his lips as he watch both Joey and Pacey sleeping peacefully in each others embrace. They look so good together as they cuddle up with each other.

But the magic didn't last long as Joey stir awake when she heard something. Opening her eyes, she felt her head resting on something hard as she start to realize that she is embraced in someone's arms. Lifting her head up from his chest, Joey looked down at Pacey as he continue to sleep. A wave of shock cross her feature as she heard someone clear their throat at the doorway. Looking to see who it was, Joey was surprised to see both Bessie and Doug staring back at her with surprise looks on their face.

Feeling a rush of panic ran through her, Joey didn't know what to do as she just scream which cause Pacey to jump wide awake. Noticing the position they was in and the two unwanted guest standing at the door - had also cause Pacey to join in the scream with Joey.


Evelyn and Jen went back home as soon as they found out that it was ok. The storm may have ended but it certainly didn't end at the Leery's household. The tension there was enough to scare a person off. Which is why they were quick to get out of there as fast as they can and went straight on home. Jen felt sorry for Dawson and thought about what all he had to go through. She just hope to God that no matter what happens - he could make it through these hard times.

The house seem to be eerie quiet. Too quiet that it scares him half to death. He knew his parents aren't exactly in talking terms but he had hoped for some kind of argument or something to come out of their mouth.

Sighing loudly to himself, Dawson stood quickly from his desk chair. He couldn't take the silent treatment much longer. The more he sits here the more he feels like this is all his fault. If he hadn't confronted his mom; than none of this would be happening right now. Surely, he could of went on with his life pretending that he didn't know anything. But what good would that do? Thinking about it, that would have been a hard task for him to do and against everything that he believes in. But what do he believe in, exactly? Everything that he thought he believed in was nothing but a bunch of lies. His whole world had came crashing down. No one is as they say they are. Somehow, he is living in a world where there is nothing but lies and deceits.

"We're only human. No ones perfect."

That line came flashing back to his mind. He remembered Joey saying something like that to him once a while back. Then suddenly, just like that, the thought of Joey came flooding his mind. How could he have treated her like that? He inwardly cringed at the thought of their last encounter. He was nothing but cruel to her when all the while she was just trying to be a good friend.

Some friend he had turn out to be. The more he thought about it - the angrier he gets at himself. Wanting to make things right, Dawson quickly grab his house key as he ran out of his bedroom and storm down the stairs leaving the house.

Mitch heard Dawson leaving the house and thought that it was his cue to leave as well. Getting the keys to his truck, Mitch headed for the front door when Gail came out of nowhere; stopping him from leaving.

"Mitch, where are you going?" she asked as she grab a hold of his forearm.

Mitch quickly snatch his arm back away from her as he twirl to face her. Looking down at her all he could see is just hatred. That is all he felt whenever he looks at her now. He felt nothing but hatred toward her. The woman that he had once loved isn't there anymore. She's gone. And the woman that is standing before him now is someone that he wants to quickly forget.

"I can't be alone here with you much longer," he said harshly. "If I do ... I might do something that I will regret."

Trying to hold her tears back, Gail reached out as she grab a hold of his forearm, again. "Mitch ... please!"

"Let go of my arm, Gail," Mitch said as he was running out of patience.

Gail looked down ashamed as she kept a firm grip on his arm.

"I said ... let go of my arm."

Surprised by the tone of his voice, Gail slowly loosen her grip from his arm. Feeling her loosen her grip, Mitch quickly took his arm back which cause her hands to fall back to her sides.

"Oh. And one more thing," Mitch said before he turn back to leave. "I want a divorce."

Shaking her head franticly, Gail cried, "Mitch, no!" This can't be happening. Every part inside her felt like she was about to bust.

"Don't!" Mitch shouted, "don't you dare cry. You don't get to cry." He said as he march out the door.

Leaving Gail as she drop down to her knees bursting with tears, as the thought of her marriage being over.


"How in the world did you two managed to get in that position?" Doug laughed as he and Pacey was on their way home.

"I don't know, man. One minute I was up standing guard because she claim she saw a rat - and than the next minute I woke up and there were you and Bessie," Pacey explained.

He was just as shock and surprised as everyone else. All he remember is Joey didn't want him to leave her alone because she was afraid that the rat she saw would come back. So he decided to stay up while she go to sleep. They talked for a while about nothing important and than the next minute - Joey fell asleep. Feeling a bit bored, Pacey spotted a book that Joey was reading on her desk. Walking over to pick it up, Pacey read the cover of the book. Little Women. Walking back over to the bed, he sat upright as he turn the page to the first chapter. Getting into the story - to his surprise - Pacey took his favorite watch off as he place it on the bedside table next to his picture. Getting more comfortable, Pacey lower himself on the bed as he continue to read the book.

He must have fallen asleep while reading because the next thing he knew he woke up with Joey screaming and Doug and Bessie standing by the doorway surprise expressions on their faces.

Doug took a glance at Pacey as he saw him smiling to himself.

"What's so funny?" Dough asked.

"I was just thinking about earlier event."

"Yeah, that really was something, huh?"

Pacey just smile as he nodded his head. Looking down at his wrist, he noticed that he doesn't have his favorite watch on. In a panic, Pacey try to remember when he had his watch last.

Doug notice Pacey's panic reaction as he watch his brother looking around for something.

"What's up, Pace? You forget something?"

"My watch! I can't find my watch!" Pacey panicked.

"Okay, calm down. Where did you see it last?"

Pacey ran his hand back through his hair as he try to think.

"I don't know! I had it with me when we were over to the Potter's."

Doug thought for a moment. "Well, did you take it off by any chance?"

Pacey stop his search as he try to recall what he had done to his watch. He remember having it on at all times. Then suddenly a realization had hit him. His picture. Joey have a picture of him on her bedside table and he remember taking his watch off and place it by the picture.

Pacey mentally kick himself as he wonder how he had manage to forget that. Feeling a rush of relief wash over him, Pacey started to laugh at himself.

Doug looked over at Pacey as if he had lost it. "What? What's so funny, now?"

"How could I be such a idiot?" Pacey ask rhetorically.

"What? Did you remember where you misplaced it?" Doug asked impatient.

"Yeah. I remember," Pacey said.

"Well?" Doug asked.

"If you don't mind. I would like for us to go back to the Potter house. I left my watch in Joey's room."


Joey was straightening her room when she notice a glare flickering at her bedside table. Curious to what it is, she went over to see what the glare was coming from. Looking down at the picture of Pacey, Joey thought back when Pacey discover that she had a picture of him. Of all people, he had to find out about this, she thought. Noticing a little shinning glare again, Joey realize that it was a watch that was sitting next to the picture. Picking it up, Joey looked at it as she wonder how this had got here. Looking on at the silver diamond watch, Joey thought that it is a beautiful watch. Wondering how it had gotten here, Joey realize that the watch do look familiar. Trying to pin point where she seen this watch before - it dawned on her that she saw Pacey wearing it.

He must have taken it off last night when he stayed in her room and forgotten about it.

She decided to hold on to it until she give it back to him. It looks pretty expensive, and she knows that he is probable going crazy wondering where it is. She took note to be sure to go over to his house later to give it back to him.

Joey was just about to put the watch in her pocket when she heard her sister call out to her.

"Joey! You have company!"

Wow, that was fast, she thought. She didn't have to make a trip to Pacey's after all. She smile to herself as she realize how important this watch is to him.

She heard him walk up to her doorway as she started off, "You forget -" she stopped mid sentence as she turn and realize who it was standing at her doorway.

Dawson was staring back at her as he was trying to read her expression. On his way here he kept worrying about how she will react when she see him. He didn't necessarily leave thing in good terms with her. He had hoped that she would forgive him from the way he had treated her. She didn't deserve that. He realize that now.

Joey was surprise to see Dawson standing there before her. She didn't know what to do or what to think. She haven't seen him since that night when he found out that she knew about his mother secret affair. Thinking back that night, he had been nothing but cruel to her. She couldn't believe the way he was acting. It still stung her. He had hurt her deeply that night. She wonder why he had decide to show up now?

Dawson's heart dropped as he notice the pain expression on her face. He realize how badly he had hurt her. And he want her to know how sorry he is for hurting her. Which is why he is here now. To make amends. Joey is an important person to him. He was crazy to even let her go. He realize how important his friendship means to her. To him. To them both. How could he let something so little as withholding information tear them apart? This is silly and he knew it. He was being childish and he wasn't thinking about others but himself. Well, today he is going to rectify that.

Joey quickly panic as soon as she notice Dawson looking down at her hand. She almost forgot that she was still holding Pacey's watch in her hand. Reacting quickly, she quickly move her hand behind her. Noticing the look he made, she couldn't help but feel a little guilty. For some reason she felt that hiding something of Pacey's from Dawson made her feel as if she is betraying Dawson somehow.

Noticing the guilty look on her face, Dawson decide not to push it any farther. Whatever it is she is hiding behind her back - she do not want him to know about it. He felt a little hurt by it but knew he deserve that treatment from her by the way he had treated her. If she wanted to tell him what it is she is hiding, she will in her own time. He can wait. Whatever it is, it seem to be important to her.

"Jo, I came by to say that I am sorry. I was wrong for acting the way that I did. You don't deserve that kind of treatment," Dawson confessed.

"Why did you?" Asked Joey.

Dawson shrugged as he said, "I was being childish and selfish. I didn't want to believe that you knew about my mom before I did."

"Well, I already told you why I didn't say anything -"

"And I get that, now. It took me a while but I'm here now and I want to make it right with you. Jo, please. Forgive me. I'm begging you. I want my friend back," he said as tears form his eyes.

It didn't take long for Joey to cave in. Deep down inside she still do have feelings for Dawson. How could she deny his request? Of course she forgive him. How could she not? This is Dawson. The one who have been there for her when her mother died. He will always hold a special place in her heart. No matter what.

"Of course I will forgive you, Dawson," Joey finally said.

A sigh of relief left him as he quickly pull Joey to him in a close embrace. Forgetting the fact that she was holding something behind her.

Joey was caught off guard when Dawson pull her to him in an embrace. Not knowing what to do, she stood still as Dawson held her even tighter.

Both Dawson and Joey didn't notice Pacey standing at the doorway as he watch the scene being displayed.


AN: Finally this chapter is complete! I just want to address about the picture of Pacey that Joey had in her room. I'm not sure if any of you notice this but in season 2, I forgot what episode it was but I've noticed Joey do in fact have a picture of Pacey in a frame by her bed. It was a episode when she and Dawson was in her room cuddling on her bed. It's funny because you don't realize the little things about that until you watch it over and over again. When I noticed that I was like "what I thought she can't stand Pacey. What is she doing with a picture of him and not Dawson." LOL. I do find that funny and thought it would be a great idea to bring that out in this chapter.

Episode Recap:

Jen: I want to address Jen's storyline first. So now we know what had happened to Jen back in New York and why she move to Capeside. I felt her story was a bit heartfelt and I wanted Dawson to see her reasoning and side of her story. When I came up with this storyline, I took what little information that I had from her in season 4 and just kind of elaborate it more. I do hope you enjoy that scene and that storyline.

Mitch: Wow! I must say even I do see a new side of him. But that's because it was all Gail's fault. You have to understand how Mitch is feeling at this point. He is really hurt and in order to deal with that pain he wants to hurt Gail more, maybe just as much as she had hurt him. What sad is the fact that he STILL do love her but he doesn't want to. Which is why he is going to act more coldly towards her and personally I can't wait!

Gail: Well, what can I say. She brought it upon herself. I do feel a little bad for her but this is the path that she took. Now she have to deal with it and try to find a way to get past it and move on. It's not going to be easy when Mitch is going to make her life a living hell.

Dawson: You know ... Dawson is just being Dawson. Okay, so he forgave Jen about her lying to him about her being a virgin and realize her story behind all that. Than, he starting to feel bad for his mom after all that anger and confrontation. Now he realize what a HUGE mistake he had made with Joey. SMH. Shame on you Dawson! Shame. On. You. LOL.

Pacey: I can't say nothing bad about him. I just happen to love him more and more. Pacey has been nothing but sweet towards Joey. There are many scenes in this episode that I love involve him in it. The fact that he found out about her having a picture of him in her room was priceless. I couldn't wait to get to that scene right along with the scene when Joey spotted a rat in her room and ran and jumped on Pacey. Loved it! I thought that was a very intimate moment right there. And the fact that he stood by her was sweet. What else ... the morning after, lol. Then sadly the end when he saw Dawson and Joey in a tight embrace. Knowing it hurt considering Joey had told him that he is her best friend. Then to see her comply to Dawson like that. Hmm...

Joey: Well, I must say Joey is starting to recognize Pacey as being her true best friend. As of right now, her heart do belong to Dawson. But that is for right now *wink wink* The more she spend time with Pacey the more she will depend on him and realize her true feelings. At the moment, she is ready to admit that she do see Pacey as a best friend. I wanted to address that in this chapter. I have things in mind for you all in future seasons.