This is something I was asked to write to help save our beloved Brucas. It's supposed to be a oneshot, but it turned out to be really long so I decided to post it as a three part story.lol I hope you enjoy and everyone should do whatever they can to help save OUR couple. Go to s a v e b r u c a s . c o m for details. Just take out the spaces. Anyways on with the story.
Only In Tree Hill
Part II
Lucas parked the car his mother let them borrow while they were in town and got out before walking around to the other side and opening Brooke's door. He held out his hand and helped her out of the car. He couldn't help but place a small kiss on her lips. He could already tell that pretending to be just friends with her was gonna be hard.
Brooke allowed Lucas to kiss her. It was still early. No one would be here yet. They'd have to cool it soon though, whether Lucas liked it or not. She took his hand in hers once they pulled apart and walked toward the picnic table that sat near the water. This place was so beautiful at night when it was all lit up. This place like all the other places they'd visited today held special memories for them. The last time they been here Lucas told her how he felt. The Rivercourt was where they decided that maybe there was a chance for more than just a friendship with them...
Brooke walked off the court and set the ball down on the picnic table as she hurriedly pulled her hair into a messy bun. Her face was flushed and she was hot and sweaty. She was trying to catch her breath as Lucas began to chuckle from behind her causing her to quickly turn around and glare at him."What is so funny?"she huffed impatiently.
Lucas continued to laugh."You. You can't seriously be that tired. We've only been at this for 45 minutes."he let out as he made his way to her.
"Yeah, well 45 minutes is too long for a girl who doesn't know what the hell she's doing."informed Brooke pointedly."I mean don't you have a heart condition or something? Isn't this against the rules?"she added with seriousness.
Lucas rolled his eyes at her attempt to get out of this by bringing up his HCM."I can mess around like this. It's exercise. I just can't play competitively as a career. This is nothing."he added to further piss her off.
"Speak for yourself Broody. I call this hard work. Why I agreed to play is beyond me."spoke Brooke as she took a seat on the table and took a sip from her water bottle.
Lucas walked over and sat next to her."I will say you did a lot better than I thought you would."smiled Lucas as he turned to her."And once I make the move to California we can do this more often and then maybe you'll get better than me."he let out, voice dripping with sarcasm.
Brooke rolled her eyes at his attempt to make her feel better."Whatever. I suck and I know it. There is no getting better for me and we will definitely not keep doing this once you move."she said with a half smile.
Lucas looked at her. He couldn't believe how beautiful she looked all sweaty with her cheeks pink from her exertion and strands of hair matted to her face. There was something about Brooke that no matter what was going on she would still look stunning. This just proved it.
Brooke's brow narrowed as she caught Lucas staring at her."What is it?"she questioned."Do I have something on my face?"she asked swatting at her face.
Lucas chuckled at her and removed her hand from her face and held it in his."There's nothing on your face Brooke."
"Then what is it?"she asked curiously as a sinking feeling pulled at her lower belly.
"You're beautiful."he let out as he used his free had to caress her flushed cheek, not bothering to worry about the consequences of his actions. It was what he was thinking and he wanted her to know it. He'd been keeping thoughts like this from her for too long now. No matter what the out come he had to let her know how he felt.
"Lucas..."started Brooke with a sideways look, but was instantly cut off by Lucas' lips crashing down onto hers. It took her a second to realize what was going on. Lucas was kissing her and she was letting him. She was even enjoying it. With that thought she wrapped her arms around his neck and deepened the kiss. Tongues fought for control as the kiss escalated.
It wasn't long after their heated kiss that the realization of what was happing reached her brain. Once it hit her she quickly pulled away and stared into Lucas' eyes."What the hell was that?"she asked angrily. She was angry that he had just ruined their friendship with a single kiss. She was furious that she enjoyed the kiss as much as she did.
Lucas looked away at the tone in her voice. Maybe kissing her had been a mistake, but he could have sworn that she felt the same."I'm sorry Brooke. I just..."
"Damn straight you should be sorry."she cut him off shouting."Do you know what you've done?"she asked sadly, knowing they could no longer go on as they were.
Lucas took a deep breath and decided to go for it."I did what we've both been wanting to do for a while now and you can't say that's a lie because the way you kissed me back just now proves it."he affirmed.
Brooke shook her head."You just caught me off guard."she denied. It was true though. She'd wanted to kiss Lucas for some time now, but was never gonna act on it.
"Don't lie Brooke."demanded Lucas."After everything we've been through the least we can do is be honest with each other."he spoke steadily not wanting to show how scared he actually was.
"I'm not lying Lucas. I'm not sure what you think is going on, but you're wrong."she said evenly more so to try and convince herself than him.
"I want to be with you Brooke."he continued."These past few months you've been here I've realized that I can't live without you. I don't want to."he said shaking his head.
"Luke."started Brooke but stopped when her voice faltered."You can't do this to me, not again."she continued when she calmed herself slightly.
"I can't not do this."said Lucas as he pulled her hands into his."Having you back has made me happier than I've been in a long time. Somehow I'd forgotten how important you are to me. I'd forgotten how good you make me feel. I don't want that to happen again Brooke. I love you and I want you to know it. I want you to say you love me too. I want us to try again. I need us to be us again."he pleaded as he brought her hands to his lips where he gently kissed them.
Brooke sat there speechless. There was no way this was happening to her again. She'd already come to terms with the fact that Lucas and her were meant to be just friends. And now here he was telling her he loved her. It didn't make any sense. She loved him, that she was sure of. But love never seemed to be enough for them. Why should it be this time?
"Please say something."pleaded Lucas as his heart pounded so loud he was sure she could hear it.
"What do you want me to say? I love you? Okay, I love you Lucas. I'm not even sure I ever stopped, but that doesn't mean anything. I can love you forever but that won't make our relationship work. It never did in the past. So why would it now?"she let out sadly.
Lucas shook his head adamantly."No what ruined us is your insecurities and my stupid actions that made your insecurities rightfully so. But there is no need to be insecure anymore Brooke. I don't want to sound insensitive but Peyton is no longer an issue here. I don't want her. I don't love her. I love you. I want to love you for the rest of my life."he spoke confidently.
His words brought tears to her eyes. She could no longer keep her feelings bottled up inside her. She wanted all the same things, but her curse was being able to look at the big picture and they were never enough for each other. She shook her head as she reached for him and wrapped her arms around his neck as tight as she could. She needed to be close to him. She needed all these doubts in her head to disappear, but that wasn't gonna happen with a simple hug. Tears began to stream down her face as her body racked with sobs. This was all too much.
"Shh."Lucas tried to assure as he stroked her hair."Don't cry Pretty Girl. Please don't cry. This wasn't what I wanted. The last thing I wanted was to hurt you again."he voiced sadly.
Brooke slowly pulled away from him and tried unsuccessfully to wipe away her tears."I...I..."she took a deep breath as she tried to calm her nerves."I love you too Lucas."she said through tears."I just know that's never been enough in the past. Nothing has changed and I can't go through the pain of having to give you up again Lucas."she let out as another fit of of tears poured out.
Lucas shook his head."You won't have to do that again Brooke. I promise. This is it. No more games. It's gonna be you and me forever."he tried to persuade.
Brooke too found herself shaking her head."I want to believe you Luke, but you've said all of this before and then you went out with my best friend. I watched as you held her after making love to her."she shook her head furiously trying to get that image out of her head."I can't do it. I won't."she wiped at her tears once again.
Lucas looked down at her words. He didn't have an excuse for what he'd done in the past. The only thing he could say in his defense was that he was a dumb kid that didn't know what he wanted. He'd been confused when Brooke pushed him toward Peyton.
This couldn't be it. His being with Peyton couldn't be the deal breaker. She wasn't a part of this. He watched as Brooke looked away. He had to think of something to say, anything that would get her to see things from another point of view."I'm sorry you had to see that Brooke. I'm so sorry, but you made love to other guys too. Peyton told me about graduation night. You and Chase."he knew he probably shouldn't have brought it up, but right now he'd do and say just about anything to get Brooke to give him one last chance.
Brooke looked at him unsure if he was being serious."You can't possibly think that's the same thing. Chase wasn't your best friend. God Lucas."she shook with anger at him for trying to compare the two.
Lucas let out a heavy sigh."I know and I'm not saying that it's the same. I'm just saying that you were with other guys too, guys who you were in love with. Did being with them make you feel any different about me and what we had? Because being with Peyton didn't make me fall the least bit out of love with you. If anything she helped me realize it was you all along. I'm not sure if you can ever forgive me for my actions in high school, but I think you know now that I'm not that same kid that didn't know what he wanted. I know and it's you."he stated firmly as he looked into her eyes.
"I'm not sure I can give you what you want Lucas. I know I was the one that broke up with you and pushed you toward Peyton, but it still hurts."she took a deep breath."The thing is you are so important to me now. I can't lose your friendship. I'd be lost without you. When you told me you were moving to California I couldn't have been happier. Somehow you've become this major part of my life. You already know that I love you Luke. I just don't know what to do."she cried.
"I'm sorry. The last thing I want is to pressure you. Maybe I shouldn't have said anything. I just...I'm not talking about now, but is there a chance for us Brooke? Could you ever forgive me?"he asked as his heart began to pound even faster than before. His whole future was riding on her answer.
Brooke sat quietly as she thought about this. She needed to find the right words to say this. She took a deep breath and reached for his hand."I don't know Lucas. I do know that you mean everything to me and the fact that I love you so much it hurts has got to mean something right? I know I'm not ready for anything right now, but maybe if we take things slow I might be."she let with a small shrug and a tentative smile.
Lucas let out the breath he wasn't even aware he was holding. Her words gave him hope that what they had and could have again wasn't lost. Brooke said she needed time and time was what he was gonna give her."Anything you need Brooke. I'm just glad you're not against giving us another chance."
Brooke nodded hesitantly."Lucas I just need us to be friends right. That's as much as I can handle right now."she let out quietly before allowing him to pull her into a hug.
Thinking back to that night was a bit overwhelming. Things could have turned out so differently for them had she decided Lucas wasn't worth the heartache. Everything that had gone on since that night had been far from heartache. Lucas did what she asked. He backed off a little and continued to be her friend. It had been hard at times though, knowing how the other truly felt. There were times when they both wanted to say screw it and give in to temptation, but in the end they were wise enough to know that falling into bed together would only cause problems if they both weren't ready.
Lucas had been a real sweet heart during the time Brooke needed to think things through. He never pushed her for things she wasn't ready for. Instead he would find little ways to show her that he cared. He'd let her call or come over at three in the morning when she was frustrated about her sketches to vent to him. A pot of coffee would be put on and they'd talk for hours, well she'd talk for hours and he'd listen intently. There were times when she could have sworn she bored him and he wasn't paying attention to her, but then he'd recite everything she'd just said. Other times she'd come home after a lousy day at the office she hated working at and find Lucas in her apartment cooking her an amazing meal. They'd have a little wine with dinner and just talk. She loved talking to Lucas. Lucas even sat with Brooke when she cried herself to sleep after finally having enough and quitting her job. Her boss was a bitch and she couldn't see the woman letting her work her way up. So she quit. Lucas held her as she cried, whispered soothing words of encouragement and asked her what she wanted to do for the rest of her life.
What did she want?
She wanted to open up a clothing store that sold only her designs. She wanted to work hard and be successful in her own right. Lucas held her hand and told her to go for her dreams. He believed in her and knew with no doubt she would get it done. Brooke decided he was right and went for what she wanted. Lucas never left her side while she fought to make her dream come true. He helped her every step of the way. Even when it seemed impossible. He never let her give up.
They'd become each others best friends and that was okay with them. That friendship lasted close to a year before she felt ready to finally take the plunge and cross over from being friends to getting back together. To say both were happy with the development would be a huge understatement. Brooke was glad to feel over everything enough to be with Lucas again and Lucas was happy to have Brooke trust him enough to give him another chance...
"I can't do it Luke. I just can't."shouted Brooke franticly as she let herself into Lucas' apartment."I don't know what I'm supposed to do."she added as she paced around his living room.
Lucas looked up from his computer and turned to face her."What's wrong B?"he questioned interested. He knew his friend was going through hell with trying to get her store up and running. He wanted to tell her to calm down and slow down, but he knew it would only fall on deaf ears.
"Your question should be what is right? That list would be the shorter one."she balked.
"Brooke."Lucas started.
"No, I'm serious Broody. How am I supposed to do this? How am I supposed to open up the store in the next seven days when the manufacturers are threatening to go on strike? Strike? I thought that stuff like that only happened in the movies. Who the hell heard of going on strike in real life?"she fumed.
Lucas could only look on and shake his head."I'll make a few calls and see what is going on with that Brooke."offered Lucas. He'd say and do just about anything to lighten her load. She was taking on so much he was beginning to worry about her.
"I'd appreciate any help you can give me, but even if these people don't strike the building is crap Luke. We just closed escrow and the owners happened to forget to mention all the tucked away problems with the building. I was told today by an inspector that we're not up to code. I asked him to dumb it down for me and he let me know in no uncertain terms that until we fix the faulty roof and rewire the entire store we are not allowed to open up."she finished looking defeated.
Lucas went to her and pulled her into his arms. He hated how broken she looked."I'm so sorry babe, but don't let this get you down. If that's what needs to be done then we'll do it."assured Lucas as he stroked her back soothingly.
Brooke pulled away from him at his words and scoffed."It's not that simple Luke. I looked into everything today and to get this work done it's gonna take an exorbitant amount of money. Not to mention time. Both of which I don't have."snapped Brooke. She was feeling so overwhelmed and frustrated it was was a mystery she hadn't had a breakdown."The bank is not gonna lend me any more money and we're scheduled to open up in a week. A week Luke."she raved."What am I gonna do?"she asked as she wiped at an angry tear.
Lucas pulled her back to him by the hand."You can do this Brooke. I know you can. Just..."he paused trying to think of what to say."Just push back the opening date."he offered. With more time they for sure could get everything worked out.
Brooke shook her head."I can't."she sighed heavily."I have buyers who are interested in putting my clothes in their stores flying in on opening day. I can't ask them to reschedule. How would that make me look? I don't want to be seen as irresponsible."she shook her head as more tears began to fall. Nothing was going the way it should."I don't know why I listened to you in the first place. I should have known that I couldn't do this. It was ridiculous to think otherwise."she placed her head in her hands and cried.
Lucas hated when she talked like this. When she put herself down. He walked over to her and pulled her hands away from her face."You listened to me because deep down inside you know that I'm right. You can do this Brooke. Sure you hit a snag, but the Brooke Davis I know and love would not let this get her down. In a weeks time your store will be opened. I know it."smiled Lucas confidently as ideas began to form in his head.
"I wish I could believe that, but Lucas..."
Lucas shook his head."No, I don't want to hear anymore about this. You need to forget about all this tonight. You're so stressed and it's not healthy. You need to relax and have a good nights sleep. You're in no state to drive. You're gonna stay here. It's not up for debate Pretty Girl."He added sternly when he watched her about to object."I'm gonna draw you a bath and fix the guest bedroom for you."he watched her shoulders slump and he wrapped his arms around her."We'll fix this Brooke. I promise."he whispered into her ear. He sighed in relief as he felt her nod into his chest. It was the first sign of hope he'd gotten from her yet.
After Lucas fixed her a warm bath and turned down the bed for her he sat at his desk and pulled out his phone. There was so much that needed to be done and not a lot of time. He was gonna keep his promise to her even if it killed him.
The next morning she'd awoken hours late. The alarm clock on the side table had been unplugged. She was gonna kill Lucas. But she hadn't had the chance. Lucas was already gone. He left her a note apologizing for unplugging the alarm, but said she needed her rest. After putting on a far too big pair of Lucas' sweats and t shirt she grabbed her keys and headed to her apartment. There was a ton of work to do and thanks to Lucas she was behind.
After a shower and a change of clothes Brooke made her way to her store. She was more than a little confused when she saw all the people walking around in her store."Excuse me."She shouted trying to get someones attention."What is going on here?"she asked as she pulled a heavy set man to her who happened to be passing.
He shrugged."I don't know ma'am. I'm just doing my job."he let out before walking away.
Brooke was left even more confused than before. What the hell was going on?
Lucas watched her from the back room with a smile. He'd just gotten off the phone and couldn't wait to share the news with her. He slowly made his way to her."You look a bit confused."he chuckled.
Hearing Lucas' familiar voice Brooke quickly spun around to face him."Do you know what is going on here? Are they tearing this place down because it's not up to code?"she asked afraid of the answer.
Lucas couldn't help but laugh. He shook his head."No, they're not tearing this place down. They're fixing it. The crew over there."He pointed to men carrying material."Are the roofers. They guarantee the roof will be finished in four days. And those guys over there."he pointed to another set of workers."Are electricians. They informed me that the inspector was exaggerating when he told you how bad the wiring was. All they have to do is put in a whole new set of breakers and fix a few wires in the fixtures and you are good. That should take no time at all."smiled Lucas."That leaves us with three days and if we both work day and night I am sure we can have this place up and running on opening day."he said confidently.
Brooke looked on still confused as she took in what he said."What are you talking about Lucas? How did you get all these people here?"
"I called them Brooke."he laughed. It wasn't like they just appeared out of thin air."They tend to show up when they get paid."
"That's just it Luke. I don't have the money to pay them. They have to go."she let out nervously. Her dream was within reach again and she hated having to push it away.
Lucas shook his head."That's already been taken care of. Just let them do their job."he explained a little nervous himself. He knew the question that followed would need to be answered and he was pretty sure Brooke wouldn't like it.
"Already taken care of? By who? Who paid these people?"she asked with a sideways look.
After hesitating for a few moments Lucas finally spoke."I did."he swallowed preparing for her reaction.
Brooke's eyes grew wide."What? You paid for all this?"she asked holding out her hands and motioning to everything. She shook her head and looked him straight in the eyes."I can't let you do this Luke. Please ask them to leave."she said sadly. It wasn't that she wasn't grateful, because she was. What Lucas had done for her was amazing. But it was too much. She'd looked into everything yesterday so she knew how much this was costing him and she couldn't allow it to continue. No matter how much she wanted this.
"I can't do that Brooke. These guys have already started their work. They've been paid in full. There is no way they can stop now. It's done."he said firmly. He knew it was gonna take a lot to get Brooke to let him help her like this, but he was willing to do anything to make her okay with this.
"This is too much Lucas. I can't let you pay all that money. It isn't right. You should have talked to me before you did anything."she exclaimed with a raised voice. This should have been her decision.
"If I would have told you what I had planned would you have let me?"he questioned. He watched Brooke shake her head no."That's why I went behind your back. I know you Brooke and you'd rather fail than take help from a friend. It shouldn't be like that. I love you and I just wanna help. It's okay to take help from a friend Brooke."informed Lucas evenly.
Brooke let out a small sigh."It's too much money Luke."she whispered. How could she let him do this?
"I have money Brooke, lots of it. That's what happens when you're on the best seller's list."he smiled as he tried to crack a joke. He got serious before he continued."What good is having money in the bank if you can't help the people you love?"he asked intently as he grabbed a hold of her hands and held them in his own. He looked into her eyes willing her to accept his help.
Brooke took a deep breath before nodding."Okay."she gave him a small smile."Thank you Luke."she whispered as she pulled him into a hug."I promise I'm gonna pay you back every cent, with interest."
Lucas held her to him tight. He thanked the heavens above for her agreeing to let him help."Any time Pretty Girl, any time."he let out with a smile.
Brooke pulled away slightly leaving her hands to rest on shoulders. "I don't know what I'd do without you."she let out sadly as she looked into his eyes. Every fiber of her being was telling her to kiss him. She wanted to do just that so bad, but she willed herself to fight it.
Lucas nodded not breaking eye contact with her."I feel the same way about you Brooke."he spoke softly before realizing that he left out one major detail."I almost forgot. I made a few phone calls and had all your materials shipped to another manufacturing company. I threw a few extra bucks at them and they promised to have everything ready and shipped before you open. It's happening Brooke. You're gonna open on time."he beamed delighted.
It took Brooke a minute to process what Lucas just said. Everything was actually okay. Lucas managed to fix everything that was wrong and he made it seem effortless. He did it without trying to take credit for it. The guy standing in front of her was amazing. He was a dream come true. He was everything she hoped for and everything she wanted."It's because of you."she spoke softly before leaning in and capturing his lips with hers. The kiss was slow and full of feeling. Brooke wanted Lucas to know everything she felt for him in that one kiss. She was pretty sure he got the message.
True to Lucas' words, the store, B. Davis opened on time and it was all thanks to him. Lucas in one day made it possible for her to have all her dreams come true. She had her store and she now had her guy. After that day in the store they said goodbye to being just friends and hello to being together. After everything that Lucas had done for her throughout the year she could no longer deny her feelings for him nor did she want to. It was too painful pretending to only want to be his friend. She loved him and he loved her. It was that simple. Some may call her crazy for trying again with Lucas after everything, but the way she saw it there had to be a reason they kept coming back to each other. And it wasn't as if she was rushing into things. She'd thought about this for a long time.
Lucas watched as his girlfriend sat quietly, many different facial expressions adorned her face. He could tell she was thinking about something important. Curiosity got the best of him as he lightly bumped her shoulder with his.
Brooke cleared her head and looked over to Lucas."What was that for?"she asked playfully.
Lucas shrugged."You looked deep in thought and you know how I feel about being ignored."he chuckled. Off her eye roll he continued."So what was it you were thinking about Pretty girl?"
Brooke smiled wide and reached for his hand."You. I was thinking about how great you were after everything that happened the last time we were here. You really are amazing, Boyfriend."she let out before pulling him to her and placing her lips over his in a slow meaningful kiss.
Lucas moaned into their kiss."How in the hell do you expect me to pretend we're not together when you kiss me like that?"pouted Lucas as he wrapped an arm around her securely.
"It's called willpower baby. Use it."she stated firmly before pulling out of his grasp and getting up off the table to put some distance between them. Lucas wasn't the only one gonna have a hard time with this.
"No."whined Lucas when she vacated his embrace. He held out his hand to her so he could pull her back to him.
Brooke shook her head."No. We might as well get used to the space right now. That way when everyone is around it won't be as difficult."explained Brooke.
Lucas didn't like her thinking and got up from his seat. If she wasn't gonna go to him he was gonna go to her.
Brooke stepped back as he made his way to her."No, Lucas. I'm serious."she smiled playfully as this became a game of dodge.
Lucas was finally able to pull her to him from behind. He'd been ready to kiss her when they heard yelling from behind. He quickly dropped his arms as Brooke pulled away.
"What's going on here?"smiled Haley as she yelled at her two best friends. They looked awfully cozy together. It was a shame they still didn't see how perfect they were for each other.
Brooke quickly took off in Haley's direction."Tutor Wife, hi. I missed you."let out Brooke as she wrapped Haley into a big hug.
"I missed you too Brooke."said Haley once they broke apart."But you know, I'm not a tutor anymore. I'm a teacher."
Brooke rolled her eyes."Yeah well, Teacher Wife just doesn't have the same ring to it."she informed with a shake of the head."Hey Nate."said Brooke with a nod in his direction.
Lucas finally walked over to them and bumped fists with Nathan in greeting before pulling Haley in for a hug."God I missed you Hales. It's been too long."he said into their hug.
Haley nodded."Well If you and Brooke would leave the city you seem to love so much and visit it wouldn't be as bad."she belt out.
Brooke rolled her eyes."We've been busy."shot back Brooke sticking her tongue out.
"There's the Brooke I know and love."spoke Haley, her voice dripping with sarcasm."Childish and immature."she laughed, but got serious."How's the store Brooke? I haven't seen it since we went down to visit y'all around the time you opened it. God."thought back Haley."That was nearly a year ago. That's too long to go without seeing each other."
Brooke nodded in agreement."Yeah, Luke and I already said that we need to make it a point to come back and visit more often."she said looking at Lucas for conformation.
"Yeah, I really miss my mom and Lily."offered Lucas.
"Good."exclaimed Nathan."Any chance of a game of one on one?"he asked Lucas as he pulled a ball from his bag.
Lucas opened his mouth to say yes when Brooke beat him to it.
"Are you crazy Nathan? You know he can't play. Don't even try to tempt him."she yelled. She knew she was acting crazy, but just the thought of Lucas playing frightened her. She didn't want him to do anything that might end up hurting him. There was no way that she could lose him, not again.
Lucas placed a hand on the small of her back to calm her down. He knew how Brooke felt about him playing ball. He wished she understood that a pick up game wasn't gonna hurt him. He loved her for looking out for him though."Maybe later."answered Lucas which garnered him a scowl from Brooke. He had to smile at her protectiveness.
Haley watched the two in front of her. Brooke seemed really protective of Lucas and Lucas stood there awfully close to Brooke and it it looked as if he was holding her. The exchanges those two shared had her wondering. It was probably nothing though. They were just really good friends. Their closeness was probably because they spent a lot of time together. And since she wasn't around them much it seemed weird.
Lucas turned away from Brooke. If he looked at her any longer he would have pulled her into his arms and according to Brooke that wasn't an option."I was hoping you'd bring James."he said to Haley. He couldn't wait to see the little guy.
"Yeah, so was I."let out Brooke."I miss him. Is he doing okay?"she asked interested.
Haley nodded."Yeah, he's doing just fine. We brought him with us to Tree Hill of course, but we left him with Deb tonight. I figured tonight should just be about us. Everyone can see him tomorrow."
"Yeah, Karen wants all of us to go to the cafe tomorrow for dinner. We can see him then."smiled Brooke at the thought of her god son.
"Sounds like a plan."said Haley as she turned to Nathan who nodded in agreement."So do we actually know if anyone else is coming to this thing?"to her knowledge nobody had called anyone to see what was up other than the four of them.
"Do I count as anyone?"asked a cocky voice from behind the four.
Everyone turned around in time to see the fiery red head make her way to them. Brooke ignored Haley's whisper of no and ran to hug her one time close friend."Oh my god. I was so just thinking of you right now."said Brooke excitedly. She'd been thinking that very minute that she hoped Rachel would make it.
Rachel shrugged nonchalantly."Of course you were. Everyone thinks about me."she let out with a smirk.
Brooke rolled her eyes. Apparently Rachel Gatina hadn't changed a bit."Yeah, I was just thinking, I wonder if Rachels dead."she remarked with a smile."It's like you dropped off the face of the earth or something."finished Brooke.
Rachel nodded."And I was wondering if you'd gotten fat."she pretended to look her over."I got my answer. Sucks to be you."she smiled at her friend. She'd missed Brooke. No matter how much she tried to make herself forget everything and everyone she couldn't forget her time in Tree Hill.
"You're such a bitch Rachel. You should do something about that."said Brooke with mock seriousness a she pulled the red head to the group.
"Yummy."grinned Rachel sexily as her eyes fell on Lucas and Nathan."It looks as if the Scott brothers only got finer as time passed."she let out hoarsely."Oh hey Haley."she let out as an after thought.
"Try to steal anyones husband while you were away?"growled Haley.
Brooke looked between the two. Even after four years those two didn't seem to want to get along. She decided to intervene before Rachel gave Haley a bitchy comeback which was sure to cause an all out fight."So what's been going on with you Rachel? I was serious about thinking you were dead."
Rachel rolled her eyes."I was far from dead Brookie. After graduation my parents decided I needed to find myself. They figured I should do it in Paris. I haven't left since. It's kinda hard to keep in touch when you're on another continent."she laughed.
Brooke groaned."I've always wanted to go to Paris. It's seriously been a dream of mine."she swooned turning to face Lucas."Promise me you'll take me there someday?"she pouted as she grabbed for his hands. It took everyones eyes on her before she realized what she'd done.
"Wait...are you and Lucas together?"asked Rachel with a curious smile. If somehow those two managed to get back together hell had to have frozen over.
Brooke quickly dropped Lucas' hand."No, we're friends though and if you can't count on your friends to take you places then who can you count on?"she asked with a shrug hoping everyone would buy it.
Both Haley and Rachel looked at her skeptically."If you say so."said Rachel deciding to save this for later. One way or the other she would get to the bottom of everything. Nobody's personal business was safe while she was around."Hey Lucas."she smirked causing Brooke to kink a brow."You dump the skinny blonde who pretended to be Brooke's best friend yet?"she had to laugh at the uncomfortable look that crossed his face.
"Yeah, Peyton and I broke up almost right after graduation."he explained looking anywhere but at Brooke. He knew she always got uncomfortable when Peyton was brought up. He wanted nothing more than to take her in his arms right now and just hold her, but that wasn't possible.
Rachel nodded."Good choice. I can now say and not feel bad... well actually I wouldn't have felt bad back then, but for some reason Brooke thought it best we keep our mouths shut."she added an eyes roll for effect."You and Peyton really freaked me out. You two were so alike it was scary. It actually looked like you were dating your sister. That and it started to look like you shared the same clothes. I mean how many plaid shirts and dirty jeans can someone own."she shook with disgust just thinking about it.
Haley couldn't help the laugh that burst through her at the red heads words. It was funny because she too had thought the same thing back in senior year. She quickly stifled her laugh when she caught sight of Lucas' glare."Sorry."she said looking down.
"I hope you all didn't start the party without me."came a familiar voice.
Five heads quickly turned to see a mop of curly blonde hair rushing toward them. It was the quickest entrance of the night. She dashed past the four straight into Lucas' arms. Whispering a quiet."I've missed you Luke."into his ear as she held him tight.
Peyton sat herself on Lucas' lap and wrapped her arms around his neck."I love you."she spoke softly as she rested her head on his shoulder.
"I love you too Peyt."he let out knowing where this was going. He couldn't say he was surprised. This had been a long time coming and he was fine with it. He thought breaking up with her would hurt him more, but it really didn't. This really was what was best for both of them."You don't have to say it Peyton. I already know this isn't working."he let out as he held her tight.
Peyton nodded."It's just that I love you so much Luke. I don't want us to be over."she cried into his chest.
Lucas shrugged."You need to follow your dreams Peyton. I don't want you giving up anything for me."he insisted intently.
Peyton looked up at him and shook her head."Why are you so okay with us breaking up?" she asked confused.
"I'm not okay with this, but Peyton we never see each other and we hardly talk. The fact that we can do that so easily has gotta mean something."he watched her nod in agreement."I'm okay with the fact that you're doing what's best for you. I'm okay because you're gonna do what makes you happy."he pulled her to him in a tight embrace. Yes he knew they weren't working out, but that still didn't change the fact that this was hard. Peyton was important to him, hopefully she'd stay that way now that they were just gonna be friends.
"How am I supposed to go to New York and be happy all alone?"she whined.
"I doubt you'll be alone for long Peyt."assured Lucas. "This is an amazing opportunity. Go and make the most of it. You'll regret it if you don't. I'll always be here for you Peyt. Always."
Lucas was surprised by her greeting. They hadn't talked in almost four years so he hadn't been expecting this. When Peyton leaped into his arms he couldn't do anything other than wrap his arms around her so she wouldn't fall. His eyes quickly sought out Brooke's. She was looking back at him with as much surprise as he felt. This wasn't going to be good if he stayed in this embrace any longer. He had a sudden urge to get Brooke alone.
Without hesitating he pulled away from Peyton."Wow. Um...hi."he let out awkwardly eyes still glued on Brooke. He wasn't sure what was going on in her head. Peyton hadn't been an issue for them in so long he didn't know where she stood on the subject.
Rachel watched as Lucas seemed worried as he looked at Brooke. As she turned to Brooke she took notice that she too was looking at Lucas. There was no way those two were just friends."So do we all get greetings like that or is Lucas just special?"she asked hoping to pull Peyton's attention away from Lucas.
Peyton turned to Rachel."Hey Rachel. It's good to see you."she smiled. Her smiled widened as her eyes found Brooke's. She hadn't seen or talked to her best friend since she left L.A. after her internship. She suddenly realized that she missed her like crazy. Just as she had greeted Lucas she ran to Brooke."Oh my god. I missed you so much B. Davis."she wrapped her arms around her one time best friend."It is still Davis right?"she asked once they pulled apart."You haven't gone off and gotten married?"
Brooke shook her head."I missed you too Peyton."she pulled her in for another hug. It was once they pulled apart and she watched Peyton hug everyone that she realized that Peyton didn't mean anything by running to Lucas the way she had. She watched as Lucas tried to subtly make his way to her.
"Hey."he greeted."You think we can go somewhere for a minute?"he suggested to which he received a very firm shake of her head."Please."he pleaded, but was quickly cut off.
"My eyes must be playing tricks on me, is that...no it couldn't be...is that really Lucas Scott author of the best seller An Unkindness of Ravens?"quipped Mouth as he walked up to the group along with Bevin and Skills.
Lucas laughed at his friends antics."Hey, hows it going Mouth? Skills?"asked Lucas as he bumped fists with his friends."How you doing Bevin?"
"What's up homey?"asked Skills."I know we ain't kept in touch or nothing, but can't a guy get a hug or something?"he asked turning to the rest of the crowd.
Brooke rolled her eyes at his request, but went over to him all the same. They hugged briefly before the others followed suit.
"Hey Bev. Long time no see."smiled Brooke at her high school friend. Her eyes fell on the blonde's jeans."Are those..."she trailed.
Bevin smiled excitedly."They sure are. My baby over here took me on a shopping spree and I couldn't believe it when I came across your clothes. You got stuff in all the major stores Brooke."beamed Bevin proud of her friend.
Brooke smiled."Yeah a lot of the stores picked up my line. I couldn't believe it myself."grinned Brooke as she thought about her accomplishments.
"Yeah, my girl loves your jeans Brooke. She say they make her butt look big. Me."he said using both hands to point to himself."I like them."he smirked before getting serious."You done it girl. Good for you."he held out his fist to which Brooke happily bumped hers. He looked around to the rest of the group."What about you losers? What all y'all been up too?"he asked, but quickly held up his hands."Hold that thought. I think we gonna need so help getting through everyones business. Luke, Nate, I need some help with the kegs in my truck. I figured we might as well get our drink on while we here."
"Ohh, interesting."grinned Brooke. She wasn't sure why bringing alcohol hadn't crossed her mind.
Lucas rolled his eyes at his girlfriends remark."You don't even drink beer Brooke."he informed as he took his place next to her.
"Yeah, but I could."she smiled playfully pushing him away."Go help your friend." laughed Brooke at the squinty look he gave her before walking off with Nathan and Skills.
Both Rachel and Haley added this to the ever growing list of not just friendly behavior to be brought up at a later time.
"As luck would have it I just so happen to have a few bottles of Vodka in my car."smirked Rachel.
"Spoken like a true alcoholic."came Haley sarcastically.
"You seem to know all about that. Is being Nathan Scott's wife too much for you to handle? I could help you out with that."laughed Rachel.
Haley stepped forward ready to tell her where she could stick her questions when Brooke intervened pulling Rachel away.
"I'm just gonna go with Rachel to get the Vodka."spoke Brooke as she pulled Rachel toward her car. After they were a safe distance away Brooke turned to her friend."What was all that about?"
Rachel shrugged."What? It's not like this is anything new. Haley and I have always hated each other."she said nonchalantly.
"It's called growing up Rachel. You should try it."let out Brooke pointedly. The last thing she wanted to have to do was babysit. She had enough on her plate trying to remember that she and Lucas were supposed to be just friends.
"Oh please."laughed Rachel aloud."Like you wouldn't be trying to claw Peyton's eyes out if she were flirting with Lucas."said Rachel confidently.
Brooke scoffed."You don't know what you're talking about."voiced Brooke a little nervous."Lucas and I are just friends. He can flirt with who ever he wants."she all about choked on her words as she pulled a strand of hair behind her ear.
Rachel rolled her eyes at the brunette. She'd learned a few things about Brooke while they lived together and one was that Brooke messed with her hair when she was lying."You don't seriously expect anyone to buy that, do you? I mean you don't have to be a genius to see that you and Lucas are too friendly to be just friends."she added with a smile. It still amazed her at times how bright she was.
Brooke took a deep breath and nodded. This girl was good."Okay, yeah we're together."relented Brooke."Were we really that obvious?"she questioned seriously. If Rachel had been able to tell so soon then the others probably knew as well.
"Eh. Yes and no. You have to be looking for something to catch the looks you two have been giving each other. I just have a sixth sense about these things. You could even say that I've always been heightened to the Brucas love."she smiled knowingly."So exactly how long you been sleeping with the ex?"
Brooke looked around before she spoke."He's not my ex anymore. He hasn't been for a year now. We live together in California."she explained happily wanting Rachel know it wasn't just about sex with them. She loved talking about her and Lucas. Thinking about everything this past year brought a smile to her face.
"Well you definitely look happy."observed Rachel."But then again Lucas always did make you happy. I'm just glad he got rid of Peyton's sorry ass."she said looking over her shoulder toward the blonde in question."I personally have nothing against her, but how you could forgive her after everything is beyond me."she turned back to Brooke.
Brooke let out a sigh."You don't have to understand Rachel. It was just something I had to do. Anyways I need you not to say anything about me and Lucas. We don't really want everyone knowing right now. Can you please just keep this to yourself?"pleaded Brooke.
Rachel shook her head and gave Brooke a disapproving look."I don't understand why you would want to keep this a secret, but okay. I won't say a word."
Brooke smiled and pulled the red head into a hug."Thank you. God I missed you so much Rach. Don't go in hiding again okay?"laughed Brooke.
"For you, okay."she looked at Brooke intently."I really missed you too."she let out seriously. It wasn't often that she let herself get all mushy, but the brunette in front of her had a knack for bringing it out in her.
Lucas hung back as the girls appeared to have shared a moment. Once he was sure they were done he cleared his throat to get their attention."Is everything okay over here? Everyone said you guys left a while ago."he relayed.
"We're good."nodded Brooke."We're just here getting some Vodka from Rachel's car but we got side tracked talking about our lives."explained Brooke.
"Yeah, it appears you and Brooke had a pretty busy year."she smirked wanting to see Lucas squirm.
Lucas squinted and turned to Brooke."What is she talking about?"
Before Brooke was able to answer Rachel beat her to it."I got the Vodka."she held up both bottles."I'll just take this back to the others and give you a little alone time with your girlfriend."she dropped the bomb and walked off not giving Lucas a second glance.
Lucas' brow narrowed at her words and he quickly turned to Brooke."Did she just say..."he trailed.
"Yeah, she knows, but I told her not to say anything. So we're good."explained Brooke.
"Okay, I'm just surprised you told her at all. You seemed pretty set on not telling anyone."chuckled Lucas. That was Brooke though. Always set on something, but when the secret got to big she just had to spill.
"I didn't tell her. She guessed it. She said something about a sixth sense or something. I never really understood a thing she said."Shrugged Brooke as she opened her arms and motioned Lucas to her.
Lucas wrapped his arms around her securely and let out a content sigh."I already miss this so much."he hadn't realized until them how much the little things he shared with her meant to him.
Brooked nodded into his chest."Me too, but time is gonna fly by, you'll see. Besides it's only for a little longer tonight. Then we can go back to your moms and crawl into bed and you can show me just how much you missed me."she kinked a brow as she tipped forward placing her lips on his. It was hard not being able to kiss him like this when ever she felt like it. But she was gonna savor these stolen moments until she could do it again.
Lucas traced her bottom lip before plunging his tongue between her parted lips deepening the kiss. The last thing on his mind was breaking apart, but he had to once he heard one of the guys call his name."Damn it."he cursed.
Brooke let out a flirtatious laugh before pulling him to her once more for a small kiss."I love you Broody."she whispered into the kiss before pushing off him and making her way toward the group.
Lucas stayed behind for a few moments trying to reign himself in before going over to his friends. There was no way this week was gonna fly by.
"I say we kick start this reunion off."smiled Brooke as she poured some Vodka into a cup."I first want to say that I am so glad we all showed up here tonight. I was hoping the turn out would be this."she went on.
"Wait...I feel like we're missing someone."cut in Peyton."Where's Chase?"she asked after realizing who it was. She looked to Brooke for the answer.
Brooke shrugged at her friend."I'm not too sure. We broke up a year after graduation. The long distance thing just wasn't working for us."she said sadly.
"I'm sorry."apologized Peyton as she gave Brooke's hand a squeeze."I didn't mean to bring up any bad memories."
Brooke shook her head."No, don't worry about it. I don't have any bad memories with Chase."she couldn't help that her eyes fell on Lucas as she let out. It made her feel better that he didn't seem uncomfortable with what she'd just said. They both had their pasts.
"Well then lets get started. I want to hear all about what you've been up to."said Peyton as she patted Brooke's knee.
"There's not really much to tell."shrugged Brooke. She'd always loved being the center of attention when she was younger, but now not so much. Especially since she had this huge secret on the tip of her tongue.
"That is such a lie."laughed Haley."Tell her about B. Davis."
Brooke rolled her eyes."I do own my own clothing store in California." she let out with a smile. B. Davis was her baby and that was a subject she didn't mind talking about.
"And her stuff is sold in all the major stores."beamed Bevin, hands stroking her amazing jeans.
"That too."laughed Brooke.
"Wow."let out Peyton."I knew your stuff was being sold in stores. I just didn't know you had your own store. When did that happen?"
Brooke once again found Lucas an smiled at him before answering."A little over a year ago." she thought back happily.
"It is so beautiful inside."chimed in Haley."I mean I've never seen a store like hers. It's crazy that it almost didn't happen."frowned Haley. She knew that Brooke would have been lost without her store.
"What? Why did it almost not happen?"questioned Peyton interestedly.
Brooke rolled her eyes as she once again remembered that time."There were so many problems a week before we were to open it seemed pretty hopeless."
"That is until Lucas came to the rescue."cut in Haley."Brooke called me one night so stressed out I felt bad not knowing what to do. Then the next day I got a phone call saying everything was fine. Apparently our friend Lucas has tons of connections we weren't aware of."she laughed."Because all it took him was one afternoon to fix everything."she'd been so happy Lucas had been able to help Brooke.
Brooke nodded."Yeah, I will be forever grateful for what he did."swooned Brooke. She turned to him."Thank you Luke."she still found herself thanking him every chance she got.
Lucas rolled his eyes. He hated when Brooke and Haley told people about what he did. He didn't do it to take credit for anything. He just wanted to give Brooke her dream. It really wasn't that big of a deal."It was nothing B. You don't have to thank me. Just seeing you happy in your store everyday is enough for me."
Rachel had to turn away. This was all becoming too much. If this mushy crap kept up she might gag.
"Wait...so you live in California too Lucas?"asked Peyton a little more than confused.
Lucas nodded."Yeah, I moved there about two years ago. My publisher said it would be a good move career wise so I jumped at it. I also figured someone ought to keep an eye on Brooke."he laughed at the look Brooke shot him.
"Please."scoffed Brooke."I don't need looking after thank you."she gave him a pointed look.
Peyton took in all this information. It seemed as if their lives went on without her. Brooke and Lucas seemed closer than ever. It must be nice having him as a friend. She began to feel a little left out."Well that all sounds so nice."
Brooke nodded in agreement."It is, but what about you? I haven't talked to you since you left California."she asked figuring they'd spent enough time on her already.
"There really isn't much to tell. You know that I got offered a job promoting bands in New York. I did that for a while. I got to tour around Europe, China, even Australia. It was all so beautiful. Now I just work in a office managing a record label. It's like a dream come true. I just wish I'd kept in touch with all of you. I mean the last time I talked to anyone was when Luke and I broke up. I miss it."she let out honestly looking at Lucas.
He caught her eye and gave her a small smile. It had to be hard admitting all she had. They were no longer together, but he still hated thinking about her being sad and lonely on New York.
"Now enough about me. What's going on with you Lucas?"smiled Peyton. He was one of the main people she missed. She was dying to hear what he'd been up to while she was gone. A part of her wondered if he'd been sad without her.
Lucas shrugged and let out a sigh."There really isn't much to tell. I moved to California. I try and help Brooke out with her store as much as possible. When I'm not doing that I write. That's about it."he finished with a tentative shrug.
Brooke shook her head."He's lying. He just got offered to turn his book into a movie."grinned Brooke. Sure it wasn't her place to share this, but he was her boyfriend and she was proud of him. That had to give her some rights.
"What? How come you didn't say anything sooner?"questioned Haley as she playfully hit him on the arm.
Lucas rubbed the sore area of his arm."I wanted to be sure what I was gonna do before I said anything."he turned to Brooke."So thanks for that."he let out sarcastically.
"Well you didn't say not to say anything. And besides these people are your friends. Let them be happy for you."she said sternly.
"Dude what did you say?"asked Nathan. He knew this had to be a huge deal for his big brother.
"I just told them I'd think about it."let out Lucas as he turned to his brother.
"What's to think about?"questioned Rachel."Isn't this like every writers dream or something?"she offered her opinion.
"He's skeptical because he's afraid the book is gonna lose its magic once a director gets his hands on it."chimed in Peyton. It was crazy how well she still knew him. Even after all these years she could read him like a book. She was pretty sure he wasn't gonna do it. He wasn't gonna let a director change anything to make the movie more interesting.
Lucas nodded at her words."That's exactly it. That's what I'm worried about. I honestly think I'm just gonna turn it down. I'm not willing to compromise anything to make money. That just isn't me."he finished pretty sure he'd just made up his mind.
Brooke looked on as Lucas and Peyton shared a moment. It wasn't anything to be worried about and she wasn't. She knew Lucas loved her and the life they had in California, it was just a little much to see. Those two still had a connection. One they probably always would.
"So anyone up for a game?"asked Skills once he spotted the ball Nathan pulled out earlier.
"We don't have enough players?"informed Lucas.
"Sure we do. You and Skills against me. I can take on the both of you."challenged Nathan playfully.
Skills laughed and pointed at him."Do you hear that dawg? Please tell me we gonna put him in his place."said Skills to Lucas.
"You know it."said Lucas as he slapped Skills on the back."We'll be careful."shouted Lucas to no one in particular knowing Brooke would know he was talking to her.
Brooke let out a smile at his subtle way of reassuring her.
Haley moved from her spot on the ground to the other side of Peyton next to Bevin. She was in conversation with Bevin when Peyton wrapped her arms around her.
"So we haven't gotten to you yet Haley. What have you been up to these past few years?"she asked.
Haley let out a sigh."Absolutely nothing. And when I say that it's actually the truth. After the accident I just decided the only important thing is my family. I've just tried spending as much time with them as possible. Well that and I now teach the second grade."she smiled.
Peyton's brow narrowed at Haley's words."Accident? What accident?"she asked confused.
"My car was hit by a drunk driver on my way home one night. It wasn't too bad, but it was scary. I was in the hospital for a while, but having everyone here made it bearable."she said holding out her hand for Brooke.
Brooke smiled and took Haley's hand and gave it a gentle squeeze."Yeah, our Haley is one strong piece of work. She never let the accident get her down."
"You were here?" Peyton asked Brooke feeling even more left out than before.
Brooke nodded."The second I got the call from Nathan I flew down here. There was no way I was gonna stay away."spoke Brooke confidently.
Peyton looked down."I'm sorry I wasn't here for you Haley. I should have been."she let out softly feeling guilty.
Haley shook her head."No, it's okay Peyton. The accident was a long time ago and you didn't know about it."assured Haley.
"I still feel bad. This is what I'm talking about. I hate that I didn't keep in touch with anyone. I can't let that happen again. I missed you all so much."
Brooke lean in and hugged her and Haley did the same from the other side.
"Gag me now please."said Rachel as she made puking sounds."If I would have known tonight was gonna turn into an episode of Seventh Heaven I would have stayed in Paris with the hottie of mine."
"Nobody asked you to come."shot back Haley.
"Really? Because I'm pretty sure by the looks Nathan's been giving me he's glad I showed up."smirked Rachel loving getting a rise out of Haley. She didn't mean anything by these comments. She was just bored and entertaining herself.
"She's kidding."informed Brooke as she turned to Rachel and gave her an angry look.
"Whatever."said Haley as she went back to her conversation with Bevin.
"Did those two always fight like that?"laughed Peyton to Brooke.
Brooke let out a small laugh of her own before answering."Afraid so. It was pretty bad senior year."
"Wow. I don't even remember any of that."said Peyton. She'd definitely been around senior year, but still she didn't recall any of that. Had she already distanced herself from everyone before she even moved away?
"You had a pretty rough year Peyt. It's no wonder these petty little fights don't register."voiced Brooke hesitantly. She wasn't sure she should bring up such bad memories.
Peyton nodded. That was true. With everything that happened with psycho Derek and her losing her best friend to her finally getting with Lucas. Her time was pretty much spent alone or with Lucas. It was during this time Brooke and Haley had bonded. Haley appeared to have become what she used to be to Brooke and that saddened her. The bond Brooke and Haley had didn't seem breakable, not that she'd want to break it. There just didn't seem to be very much room for her. Maybe that was okay though. She'd done alright senior year on her own, although she had had Lucas to help her. Maybe he'd be willing to be that person again. Maybe he'd help her decided what she hoped coming on this trip would give her the answers to.
"So you and Lucas seem pretty close." she said as she turned to face Brooke.
Brooke nodded giving her a sideways look."Yeah, you could say that. Why? What's up P. Sawyer?"she didn't have a good feeling about this.
"Nothing."shrugged Peyton."I was just wondering if you knew of any girlfriend of his."she knew this was probably crossing a line, but since she was the last one to date Lucas it was probably okay.
Brooke's heart began to pound frantically at Peyton's words. There could only be one reason she was asking about Lucas. She was still interested in him. That had to be it."Um..."she swallowed."Why do you ask?"she stammered.
"I'm not really sure. I just think I might still have feelings for him and I need to know if there's a chance he still feels the same about me."let out Peyton hesitantly. She couldn't believe she was doing this, but it had to be done. She had to get answers before this visit was over. This was the only way.
Brooke's breath caught in her throat upon hearing the words she knew were to follow. It was like high school all over again. No matter how hard she tried to forget, she couldn't. She could never escape from her past. Peyton had just uttered the same words she'd spoked in high school. This was too surreal. This brought back so many memories, ones she thought were long gone...
Brooke had just said goodbye to the last of the guests. Nathan and Haley included. Tonight had turned out better than she expected. Aside from half her cast getting sick everything went according to plan. That was what she hoped for. All she wanted was for Haley and Nathan to have an amazing fun time. She was pretty sure she'd accomplished that tonight.
There was one person she hadn't said goodbye to that she really wanted to. Peyton. She was worried about her. Something was wrong and she could tell it was eating her up inside. She'd have to make sure to find out what it was. Hopefully she was still here.
Brooke walked to the back of the stage and smiled when she found her best friend. With a smile she approached her."Way to go with the tears P. Sawyer. You brought down the house."she ended with a playful tap to her shoulder. She couldn't help but catch Peyton wiping at a tear. Something was definitely wrong.
"Brooke."said Peyton finally finding enough courage to tell Brooke what she was feeling. She took in the smile on her best friends face and hated that she was about to change everything. But what other option did she have? Keep it to herself? No, that backfired for her the last time. She had to be honest."I think I still have feelings for Lucas."she finished nervously. The confused look on Brooke's face nearly brought her to more tears.
Brooke's eyes narrowed. There was no way she'd just heard right. This had to be a mistake. No way was this happening to her again. She decided to give Peyton a chance to take it back. To not ruin everything they had all worked so hard to repair."You mean you care for him as a friend?"she begged her to agree with her eyes. Her heart was pounding so loud she was sure Peyton could hear it. She hoped she could hear it. Then maybe Peyton would see what this was doing to her. The few seconds it took for Peyton to respond seemed like an eternity.
Peyton closed her eyes and shook her head as tears ran down her face."No."she whispered opening her eyes and looking Brooke in the eyes. She owed Brooke that much."I mean more than that."she cried, her voice breaking. It was out. It was finally out. She thought it would make her feel better, not having the secret weigh her down, but seeing the broken look on Brooke's face was too much. It made her feel worse.
Having to hear those words back then had been hard. But now hearing them all over again was so much worse. She'd gladly take the feelings she felt in high school over how she felt now. They were no longer stupid kids who were confused. They were adults living actual lives. This time Brooke had so much more to lose. She and Lucas were in love. They lived together. They'd made a life together. Who the hell did Peyton think she was coming in here and deciding she wanted Lucas back? Granted she knew nothing about them being together, but still who in their right mind would think it's okay to after four years of no contact think one visit entitled her Lucas back?
Brooke stood there motionless as she thought of what to say. The only thing that came to mind was. Too bad sucker. He's with me. But she couldn't possibly say that. So the truth was the only thing left. She opened her mouth to tell Peyton about being with Lucas when Rachel yelled out to her.
"Brooke come quick. It's important."shouted Rachel having just over heard their entire conversation. She'd hoped that Brooke would decide to just tell Peyton she was with Lucas, but after a long pause Brooke still hadn't uttered a word so she figured her friend needed a little saving.
Brooke looked from Peyton to Rachel."Um...I'll be right back."she quickly spit out walking away.
"Please tell me you're gonna wipe that smirk off her face and tell her you're with Lucas."urged Rachel not taking her eyes off of Peyton.
"You were eavesdropping?"she asked in disbelief."Unbelievable."
"I always eavesdrop. It's nothing new. Now answer the question. You gonna tell her she doesn't stand a chance?"
Brooke shrugged."How can I and not have Peyton feel stupid? I know her and she's gonna freak."explained Brooke looking out at Lucas.
"Oh, you mean kinda like how you're freaking out but pretending not to?"asked Rachel emphatically.
Brooke looked at her and shook her head."I'm not freaking out. I just..."she tried to gather her nerves."I just need a minute."she let out not bothering to wait for a response from Rachel. She needed a minute to get herself together. She needed to breathe. Just because things turned out badly the last time this happened didn't mean it would happen again. Things were different now. She and Lucas were in a stable loving relationship. Peyton's feelings weren't gonna change that. She leaned in back of Karen's SUV and closed her eyes. Everything was spinning.
Lucas and the guys stopped shooting around and made their way to the group. He looked around and didn't see Brooke anywhere."Uh, where's Brooke?"his eyes sought out Rachel's.
Rachel looked over toward where the cars were parked and nodded in its direction. Brooke was probably gonna kill her for sending Lucas over to her right now, but with everything going on Lucas needed to know."She said she left something in the car and couldn't find it earlier so she went to try again. Maybe you should help her look."informed Rachel hoping she was being subtle.
Lucas nodded."Yeah, okay. I bet the both of us can find it."he tossed the ball to Nathan before jogging toward the cars. He found her leaning on his mom's car. He let out a smile as he walked closer to her. He could already feel her lips against his."Hey, baby."growled Lucas as he scooped her up into his arms.
Brooke was a bit surprised when Lucas showed up, but figured this was Rachel's doing."Put me down."she let out sternly pushing Lucas away from her. She hadn't planned to take all this out on him, but it just came out.
Lucas backed up and looked at her. She seemed upset."What's going on?"he asked confused.
Brooke shook her head."Nothing. I'm just tired and people will see Luke. So just don't."she said coldly as she tried to walk passed him.
Lucas was a bit taken back by her tone. There was no way he was gonna let her walk away without getting some answers. If everyone found out about them then so be it. Keeping their relationship a secret was a stupid idea in the first place."Hey."he called out as he grabbed her by the arm."What the hell is going on? Why are you acting like this? Did I do something?"he asked unsure of what was going on. Before he walked off with the guys everything had been okay.
Brooke let out a heavy sigh and shook her head."You didn't do anything Luke. It's me. I'm sorry."she slowly walked to him and wrapped her arms around his waist. She needed to be close to him. She needed to feel his arms around her. Sure she needed to tell him what was going on, but not now. It wasn't important. The only thing important was being with Lucas. The rest could wait."I just want to go back to your moms. Can we leave already?"she asked into his chest, not wanting to let go.
Lucas nodded."Are you sure that's what you want?"off her nod he continued."Okay then. Lets just go say bye to everyone. We'll tell them we're tired and we'll see them tomorrow at dinner."
Brooke finally tore herself away from Lucas."Do you think they'll think it's weird I'm staying with you at Karen's?"
Lucas shrugged."Probably not. They know we're friend's Brooke. There's no way my mom would let a friend of mine stay at a hotel. I think we'll be okay."he assured.
"Okay."agreed Brooke."I really am tired. I just want to crawl into bed with you and sleep."
"Ohh."moaned Lucas aloud."That sounds so good right now. Lets just go say bye."he placed a hand on her back and guided her to their friends.
Haley smiled at them."Hey did you find what you were looking for?"
Lucas shook his head."No, her sweater wasn't in there. But we're actually a little tired so I think we're gonna head out."replied Lucas casually with Brooke still at his side.
"Oh, already?"insisted Haley.
"Yeah, Brooke's really tired."he explained."And since my mother refused to let her stay in a hotel she's staying with us, which means I go where she goes."He rested his hands on her shoulders in a friendly manner.
Peyton frowned a bit. Not because Brooke was staying with Lucas, but because she was leaving early. Brooke and Lucas were really the main ones she wanted to see down here and now they were both leaving. This just wasn't enough time with Brooke."You could stay with me?"she offered."My dad isn't in town and we'd have the house to ourselves."smiled Peyton hopefully.
"Um..."shifted Brooke uncomfortably. She wasn't sure what to say. She didn't want to seem to eager to stay with Lucas, but she was. She needed him to hold her tonight. She could feel her night with Lucas slipping away, but she couldn't let that happen."That actually sounds like a lot of fun, but I promised Karen I would help her with something before I went to bed. I don't want to flake since she's been so generous to me."answered Brooke hoping she sounded convincing.
Peyton nodded in understanding."Yeah, okay, sure. I guess I'll just see you tomorrow then."she smiled reluctantly.
Brooke gave her an encouraging smile of her own before turning to the rest of the group."I'm sorry guys. I'm just not feeling well, but please stay and have fun. Don't let me ruin the everything. I'll be better after a good nights sleep. Oh, I almost forgot. Karen is closing the cafe early tomorrow. She wants everyone to go and have dinner there. Will you all still be here?"she smiled when she got the desired answer from the group."Good. Then I guess we'll see you all then."she lifted a hand to wave at everyone. Sure she probably should have given everyone personal goodbyes, seeing how she hadn't seen them in forever, but right now that was the last thing on her mind. She needed to get out of there. She needed to be in a place where she didn't have to put on an act.
When she suggested keeping them a secret she hadn't expected it to be this hard. This draining, but then again she also hadn't planned on having Peyton tell her she wanted to try again with Lucas. This was a never ending cycle for them. It was as if the triangle from hell would never end. The only constant in all this madness was that at the end of everything she was always the one cast aside so that Lucas and Peyton could be happy. She prayed to God that that wasn't how it was gonna play out this time.