Chapter Fourteen
Girls Night Out
Brooke applied a thin layer of strawberry lip gloss as she looked at herself in the mirror. She'd done well. If her mother taught her anything in the rare occasion she was actually home, it was that no matter what was going on, you had to look your best. So there she was fresh out of the shower, hair blowed dry and make up done up to perfection and her in a pink Juicy Couture track suit. She did look good. There was no doubt about that.
Nobody would be able to tell that beneath all the makeup and bitchiness she was broken and that's exactly how she wanted it. They didn't need to know that she cried herself to sleep last night after finding out that her only real boyfriend hadn't loved her like she thought. If he had he wouldn't have been dating that slut Haley the whole time. They didn't need to know that her mother thought so little of her and had pretty much demanded she fix what she broke with Nathan. Those were secrets she hoped would stay buried six feet under. No, to the outside world she was Brooke Davis, girl with the perfect life.
After taking one last look at herself she exited her room in need of some breakfast. She was starving and food always managed to comfort her in the past. She traipsed into the kitchen where her eyes immediately fell on her mother. It was just like she was taught. Her mother sat at the kitchen counter in a navy blue Dolce and Gabbana suit, hair swept up in a French twist and make up applied flawlessly. If she didn't know any better she would think her mother was the epitome of perfection. But she did know better and she knew her mother was heartless and cold on the inside. Her appearance was a far as her perfection went.
Brooke idly watched her mother as she read the morning paper and sipped from her wine glass. It was barely pushing 9:00 am and her mother was already drinking and the half empty bottled sitting on the counter was proof that this wasn't her first glass."It's a little early to be drinking, don't you think?"spit out Brooke coldly not bothering to hide her disdain.
Mrs. Davis placed the paper down on the counter and watched her daughter make her way to the refrigerator."Nobody likes a bitch Brookie."she smiled tightly.
Brooke scoffed and turned to face her mother as she reached for a container of apple juice."You'd know."she retaliated.
Mrs. Davis shot her an icy glare as she eyed her daughter."You look lovely this morning Brookie, but you really should stick with water, dear. Do you know how many grams of sugar are in that little bottle of juice? The last thing you need is for that to go straight to your thighs."she spoke in a condescending tone.
Brooke scowled at her mother before twisting off the cap and taking a big drink just to spite her and preparing to walk away without a word. Seeing her mother this early was the last thing she needed. She couldn't help but wonder when the witch would flying off on her broom stick in search of another vacation spot.
"Sweetie before you go."her mother called out lovingly as if she hadn't just insulted her."Have you given any thought to what we discussed last night?"
Turning back around, Brooke shook her head."No, I tend to block you out when I hear you speak."she let out flatly. And it was the truth. All her mother ever did was insult her or speak out of her ass and that wasn't something she needed to remember.
Her mother let out an exasperated sigh. Her daughter was becoming unbearable."That or you were just too wasted to recall a thing I said. Honestly Brookie you should learn your limits."informed her mother.
"I wasn't drunk mother. I was just pissed. You'd know the difference if you yourself weren't plastered."she explained as if it would make a difference.
Mrs. Davis waved off her daughter's nonsense as she vacated her stool and went to stand in front of her."Which ever it is doesn't really matter. I'm being serious Brookie. The Davis' and the Scott's run in the same circles as you well know and the last thing we all need is for there to be bad blood between us. You know how everything works. You need to go over there and smooth things over with their son."she paused to take in the incredulous look on Brooke's face."It's not up for debate Brookie. It's a must."she finished calmly.
Brooke shook her head."Let me just throw something out here mom. Would it make any difference what so ever if I told you that Nathan cheated on me?"she asked even though she already knew the answer.
It would make no difference at all.
Brooke's mother swallowed before answering."It's like I said last night sweetie, everyone makes mistakes. This was Nathan's, but in all honesty you must know you aren't clear of any fault. If you would have done a better job keeping Nathan happy he wouldn't have felt the need to stray. The only thing acceptable now is to do what's best for everyone involved. Go see the Scott boy and pray to God he'll take you back."she let out curtly.
Brooke's mouth dropped in shock for a few seconds. She couldn't believe the things coming out of her mother's mouth. Sure her mother had always been a bit crass, but never like this."Go to hell mother."said Brooke through gritted teeth before turning and exiting the kitchen. Breakfast clearly not an option anymore, but she'd lost her appetite anyway.
Brooke let out an annoyed sigh and set down the remote as she heard a light knock on her bedroom door."Go away."she shouted not bothering to get up from her bed. The last thing she wanted was to spend another second in her mother's company. She'd already successfully avoided her for most of the day while hiding out in her room.
The door slowly opened to Brooke's dismay and Peyton peeked her head in."Can I come in?"she asked, her head still the only thing visible.
Brooke motioned her in."Yeah, sorry. I thought you were the bitch that calls herself my mother when it suits her."she said flatly.
Peyton nodded as she stepped in closing the door behind her."Yeah, I saw her. What's she doing here anyways?" One thing everyone who knew Brooke knew was that her parents never spent time at home. It was a sad truth, but that was the reality of it.
Brooke rolled her eyes."She decided to cut her vacation short to explain the importance of me going to beg Nathan to take me back."explained Brooke in disgust. The more she said it the more it sounded ridiculous. What parent in their right mind would do this?
Peyton's eyes widened in disbelief."Did she really tell you to do that?"she asked. Brooke had to have heard wrong.
Brooke nodded."That was even after I told her Nathan cheated on me. She had the gall to say he did it because I didn't do a good enough job making him happy. Can you believe the nerve of that woman?"asked Brooke once again becoming furious.
Peyton's face scrunched up in complete disbelief. She never did like Brooke's mother, but she normally was never around so it made no difference."Your mother is a real bitch Brooke. I'm sorry if I'm crossing a line by saying that, but it's the truth."She hated talking about anyones parents, but Mrs. Davis' antics were a bit much.
Brooke waved off Peyton's apology."No, I'm in complete agreement. I can't stand that woman."she reiterated.
"So what are you gonna do? You aren't gonna listen to her are you?"she hoped that Brooke would say no. That wasn't something Brooke would do, but then again her mother could be very persuasive.
Brooke scoffed."Please. Like that will ever happen. I'm gonna do what she does to me. Ignore her."she smiled tightly. She had no intention of doing what was asked. She'd rather die than follow any of her mother's advice.
Peyton nodded as she walked further into the room and took a seat next to her best friend on the bed."So how you doing?"she asked wrapping an arm around Brooke's shoulder.
Brooke let out a heavy sigh."Do you want the truth or the answer I have already prepared for everyone else."she asked looking up at her friend. It felt good to have someone just on her side. Someone who wasn't asking her for anything.
Peyton looked into Brooke's eyes. What she saw saddened her."The truth."she stated firmly arm still in place.
"I'm not doing too good Peyt. I mean I want to be strong and I want to hate Nathan and I do, more so now than I ever thought I would, but at the same time a part of me still loves him. I'm stupid I know that. He was seeing Haley Peyton. The whole time we were together. I just...I don't know what to do. Everything keeps happening. So much crap keeps piling on me. I can't even begin to climb my way out of it."whimpered Brooke as she blinked back a few tears. She hated what she'd become these past few months. Never before had she been this big a cry baby. Never before had she let things get to her this much.
Peyton pulled Brooke to her completely and wrapped her arms around her securely. She hated what all this was doing to her best friend. Nobody especially Brooke should have to deal with all this."I know sweetie. I hate that all of this is happening, but you don't have to go through this alone. You have me and Jake. We'll be here for you no matter what. I am just a phone call away babe."she said confidently.
Brooke took a deep breath. It was amazing how those few simple words made her feel better. Just knowing her best friend cared did wonders."I know Peyton and I love you for that."she let out into the blonde's chest.
"You know, you have Lucas too."said Peyton cautiously. She knew it probably wasn't the wisest thing to say right now, but still it needed to be said. Brooke needed to know he was there for her too."He wants to be there for you Brooke. If you'll just let him."she finished a little nervous once she'd felt Brooke tense in her arms.
Brooke pulled out of Peyton's firm grasp."I don't want to talk about Lucas right now Peyton."The last thing she needed was to have to worry about a guy. Peyton should know that.
Peyton nodded."I know and I'm sorry. I shouldn't have brought it up, but Lucas is your friend Brooke. He's turned out to be a really great guy. I wish you would let yourself see that."she spoke out. Maybe Brooke just needed a little push in the right direction.
Brooke's eyes narrowed in confusion."He's a great guy? Peyt what are you trying to do?"she questioned. It wasn't like Peyton to push like this.
"I'm not trying to do anything. I'm just saying that Lucas could really be good for you if you gave him the chance."Peyton tried to explain.
"Give him the chance for what? To date him? Is that what you're trying to do here? Get us together? You're unbelievable Peyton."shouted Brooke as she lifted herself from the bed.
"No, that's not what I'm doing. I'm just saying don't shut him out. Yeah he's related to the asshole, but don't penalize him for that."she stated tentatively.
Brooke shook her head."I'm not doing that." At least she didn't think she was.
"You don't see it Brooke, but you really are. I could tell he was hurt last night when you snapped at him." let out Peyton. The look on his face was so sad. It was obvious that Lucas had a bit of a thing for Brooke and it was also obvious that Brooke only saw him as a friend. Which was sad because they got along so well. She really believed that if Nathan wasn't a factor they could be something.
"Yeah well I hate when people try to tell me what to do."said Brooke a little angry. It had been one thing for Peyton to disagree with her last night, but when Lucas agreed with Peyton it kinda infuriated her.
"Okay."said Peyton holding up her hands in surrender."I don't want to fight with you about this or anything at all. I just thought you should know Lucas is here for you if that's what you want. Just don't push him away Brooke. I know you don't want to hear this, but I really do believe that you'll regret it if you do."she said hoping she hadn't stepped on any toes with her honesty.
Brooke once again shook her head."I really don't need this right now. God!"she shouted."Thank you Peyton, for adding yet another thing on top of everything else for me to have to deal with. You should go."she said pointing to the door. She knew she was acting crazy, but right now that really didn't matter. She needed to be left alone.
Peyton looked at Brooke surprised at her outburst."Come on Brooke, don't. I'm sorry. Look maybe I shouldn't have said anything."
"Yeah, well it's a little too late for that."cut in Brooke.
"Brooke."pleaded Peyton. She knew she shouldn't have said anything, but like Brooke said it was too late now.
"Just go. I can't deal with you right now. I'm sorry."said Brooke sadly. She wasn't trying to be a bitch. She just didn't know how else to be.
Peyton took in the broken appearance of her friend and nodded."Okay. I'm sorry for over stepping. I'll go."said Peyton looking down. She waited to see if Brooke would say anything else, but she didn't so she let herself out of the room. Maybe after everything cooled down Brooke would call her.
Brooke cringed when she heard the door slam behind Peyton."Urgh!"yelled Brooke as she picked up a picture frame off her dresser and threw it at the door in frustration. Glass shards flew everywhere. Everything was so screwed up. Her ex boyfriend was a jerk. Her mother was a bitch and now she was fighting with her best friend because she was pushing her toward a guy she only saw as a friend.
Peyton was pushing her toward Lucas while her bitch of a mother wanted her back with Nathan. She was going to go crazy after all of this was said and done.
Peyton was right though. Lucas was turning out to be a really good friend to her and the way she treated him last night was wrong. He was only trying to help and she yelled at him because of it. She hadn't even told him bye before shutting the car door. Brooke knew she was acting like a total bitch last night and Lucas didn't deserve it. All he'd done was try to be her friend.
Guilt was setting in full force now. She had to talk to Lucas. She had to apologize to him and let him know she appreciated everything he was doing for her. After all it wasn't his fault his brother was an ass.
Without waiting another second Brooke picked up her phone and dialed Lucas' number."Hey Lucas."said Brooke softly once he answered.
"Hey, what's up?"he asked cautiously a little surprised that she'd called him. He knew he upset her last night and he hadn't expected a call from her at all this weekend.
"Nothing."she sighed into the phone." I just really need to talk to you. Could you come over?"she asked hopeful. Lucas could very well be tired of her crap and refuse. Hell she was tired of her own crap right now. It would serve her right to have Lucas refuse.
"Um...yeah sure. I can be there in ten minutes."he answered wondering what this was all about. The tone in Brooke's voice said it was important. He wasn't about to keep her waiting.
"Great. I'll see you then. Oh and Luke?"she called out warily.
"Yeah?"he questioned curiously as he took in her serious tone.
"Thank you."she whispered sincerely.
Lucas smiled into the phone."No problem Brooke. I'll see you in a few."he let out before flipping his phone shut. So much was going on with her. He couldn't help but feel bad for her.
Brooke too shut her phone. She barely had the chance to turn around before her bedroom door flew open and in stepped her mother. A scowl appeared instantly."Look who is here sweetie."she beamed happily as Nathan walked through the door.
Nathan looked down worriedly at the floor as he heard the crunch of glass under his feet. Something must have happened for Brooke to be throwing glass everywhere, but it could just be that she was angry with him.
"I'll just leave you two alone to work everything out."smiled Mrs. Davis before quickly shutting the door behind her. Maybe behind Brook's stubbornness she'd actually agreed with her. Whatever it was she was glad Nathan was there.
Nathan looked at Brooke. It wouldn't take a genius to see she seemed pissed."What happened here?"he asked pointing down at the broken glass."And what's your mom doing home?"he questioned curious on both counts.
Brooke glared at him. He really had some nerve showing up like this."What do you want Nathan? I think you've mistaken my house for Haley's."she belt out bitterly. Being a bitch seemed to be emptying out her room so maybe it would work this time as well.
Nathan let out a heavy sigh."I know where I'm at Brooke. I came to see you. I wanted to talk to you about last night. I'm..."
"What's there to talk about Nathan?"she cut in."I finally found out how big of a hypocritical bastard you are. You broke up with me for kissing Lucas one time while you were seeing Haley the whole time we were together. You really make me sick."she yelled not bothering to hide her hatred.
Nathan shook his head. It still amazed him that Brooke didn't see how wrong what she did was. Like because he screwed up she should get a free pass. "He was my brother Brooke."yelled Nathan just as angry.
"I didn't know that when it happened Nathan. How many times do I have to keep repeating myself? The second I found out I felt horrible."she stated firmly. It was the truth and Nathan would know that if he'd given her a chance to explain, but he hadn't and now he expected her to let him explain. He really was unbelievable.
"Apparently you didn't feel horrible enough to stay away from him while we were together. Hell you're still all over him Brooke. It's disgusting."he exclaimed outraged.
"Don't you dare try and act as if you are innocent in all this. I have done nothing with Lucas since that one night, but you made out with Haley last night and god only knows when else. You are a jerk for sending her to me to tell me about you two. You're pathetic."she detest.
Nathan shook his head."I didn't send her to tell you anything Brooke. She was a bitch who did that all on her own."he spit out.
Brooke rolled her eyes at him."Whatever."Haley coming to her had Nathan written all over. He was all about games and it was getting old.
Nathan closed his eyes and took a deep breath as he placed his hands on the back of his head frustrated."God Brooke. You make me so angry I can't see straight."he had never known anyone who got to him the way she did. She made him more angry than anything, but she also made him happier than he had ever been. If only they could find a place in between to coexist.
"Yeah well the feeling is mutual."she bit out. Nathan was crazy if he thought being with him was a bed of roses. He was just as infuriating as he claimed her to be.
"I didn't come here to fight with you Brooke. I just thought I should explain."
"Explain what?"she asked."Explain why you were dating Haley the whole time you claimed you loved me? Why should I give you the opportunity to explain anything when you shot me down every time I went to you for this same exact reason?"
Nathan decided to ignore her last question. He needed to let her know that he wasn't with Haley their entire relationship. He didn't want her to continue to think that. Right now that was what was more important."It wasn't the whole time Brooke and I did love you. The thing with Haley has only been going on for a few months and it's over now. It wasn't anything like what you and I had going. I wasn't dating her. I just went to see her occasionally when we were broken up. It meant nothing."he explained knowing no matter what he said it wouldn't make a difference. Brooke was pissed and there wasn't a damn thing he could do about it.
Brooke let out a chuckle and shook her head."I don't really care Nathan. You can say what ever you want and it won't make a difference. I don't even know why you're here. It's not like you care."
Nathan looked at her in amazement."How can you say that I don't care?"he asked shocked. Everything that was going on was because he cared too much it hurt.
Brooke scoffed."You aren't seriously asking me that. Nathan you have made my life a living hell these past few weeks. The things you said to me were disgusting not to mention the fact that you sent Zack over here to fuck me. Someone who cares doesn't usually do those things."she finished coldly. It was funny to her that he still claimed to care after everything.
Nathan looked down at her words. She was right. He'd been a bastard and he'd be the first to admit to it."Look I'm sorry for all that, but you have to understand Brooke."he tried once again to explain his actions.
"Understand? Understand?"questioned Brooke furiously."All I understand is that you are a lying hypocrite with no heart what so ever. You and my mother should really get to know each other."she said pointedly.
"Look. I know you're mad right now."started Nathan.
"Mad? Oh no I am way beyond just mad. I hate you Nathan and I want you out of here. You need to go. Now."she shouted as she trembled with anger.
"Brooke I just want you to understand about Haley."let out Nathan once again being cut off by Brooke and her angry rant.
"Oh I understand alright. I understand that you think with your dick. I understand that you never loved me. And I also understand that you're into skanky whores now. Make no mistake Nathan I understand everything now. I am no longer gonna feel guilty for what I did when what you did was ten times worse."she shouted as she made her way to he side door leading outside."You need to leave."she said as she opened the door only to come face to face with Lucas.
Nathan's eyes shot to his brother."What the hell are you doing here?"he glared angrily. The last thing he needed was Lucas here when he was trying to talk to Brooke. Lucas had somehow appointed himself her protector and there was no way he'd get a word in with him in the room.
"I called him."said Brooke as she turned to Nathan giving him an icy look. She had a sudden urge to make him feel as bad as he made her feel."I told you I was done felling guilty. You and I are over so there really isn't anything keeping Lucas and I apart. No more pretending."said Brooke as she pulled Lucas to her and leaned forward placing her lips on his. She inwardly sighed in relief when he didn't pull away. She stepped back down once she was sure her point was across and wrapped her arms around his waist before turning back to Nathan. The look on his face was pure rage."We're done here so I think you should go now."grit out Brooke still holding on to Lucas. This was wrong and she knew it, but seeing Nathan hurt and angry like she was made it worth it. She hadn't really given much thought to how this would affect Lucas and that's where her mistake was.
Nathan with his jaw set tight shook his head at the two before walking out not missing the opportunity to hit Lucas' shoulder on the way out. The last thing he wanted to do was leave them alone to do god only knows what, but he knew that if he stayed any longer everything would get worse. He was so angry he couldn't even speak so he just walked out.
Once Nathan was out of sight Lucas pulled himself out of Brooke's grasp."What the hell was that about Brooke?"he let out annoyed. Sure he'd gone along with this in front of his brother, but that was only so that Brooke wouldn't be embarrassed in front of Nathan. When Brooke kissed him he'd been surprised it took all of two seconds before he realized what she was doing.
Brooke looked at him when she sensed his anger."I'm sorry. I just..."she started.
"Was that why you called me? To make Nathan jealous?"he questioned a little more upset when everything began to sink in."I won't let you use me in this sick twisted game you have going with Nathan."he shouted. No matter how much he liked her that was not gonna happen.
Brooke shook her head."No, that's not why I called. It just happened."she pleaded with him to understand. Wanting to make Nathan angry was self fulfilling, but the fact that she hurt Lucas in the process made her regret it.
"I can't believe this."muttered Lucas under his breath as he shook his head. This was the last thing he expected when she called him. He'd hoped that they'd talk about everything and end up okay, but clearly that wasn't Brooke's intentions."I'm gonna go."he said already stepping out of the house.
"Lucas wait. I'm sorry. I didn't mean for this to happen."she said sadly. The look on his face was heart breaking. She felt horrible.
"Yeah, but it did."let out Lucas as he turned and walked away. He needed to get away right now before his hurt and anger made him say things he couldn't take back. Yeah he was hurt, but the last thing he wanted was to hurt her back.
Brooke watched Lucas leave. This wasn't happening. She hadn't just lost the last person she could talk to. Nathan was gone. She and Peyton weren't talking and now Lucas was pissed at her and rightfully so. She shouldn't have used him like that. His feelings should have come to mind.
Her whole world was crashing down on her and she had no idea what to do about it. A couple of months ago everything was good and she couldn't have been happier, but now nothing was how it was supposed to be and there wasn't a damn thing she could do about it. She had never felt so helpless in her entire life.
She needed to do something to make the pain go away. She needed to feel numb. Without thinking she walked over to her closet and threw together something decent to wear. After reapplying her makeup she grabbed her keys and slammed the door behind her. She knew just the place to go to dull the pain.
Brooke picked up her second shot of Vodka and downed it with ease."Hey wait, I'll take another."she shouted holding out her glass to the bartender as he tried to walk away. She'd just sat down at the bar and was already ready for a third shot of the good stuff. Vodka was always her drink of choice. It never failed to get the job done.
He gave her a concerned look. He'd just set two shots down in front of her. If she kept this up she'd be smashed in no time. He figured he should help her out a little."You sure you don't want to slow down Rachel. Maybe switch to something a little less hardcore."he said calling her by the only name he knew her by, the one on her fake id.
Brooke shot him a not so friendly look."Look you don't get paid for your opinions or advice. You get paid to give the customers what they want and right now I want another shot of Vodka. If you wanna keep this crappy job, I suggest to give me what I ask for."bit out a very annoyed Brooke. She'd come here to forget everything and this guy was giving her a hard time. She could understand it if she were already wasted but she wasn't even close yet. The guy had no business telling her what to do. As long as she kept dishing out the cash he needed to keep the drinks coming.
The bartender nodded at her before refilling her shot glass. Technically she was right. It really wasn't his place to say anything until she had reached her limit. If and when the time came he'd reserve his right to cut her off and put her in a cab. Something he'd done for her numerous times before.
"Thank you."said Brooke sarcastically before once again allowing the warm liquid passed her perfectly painted lips. God it felt good going down her throat. She could already feel her sense dulling. The alcohol was going its job.
"Nice work with the dick head."came an appreciative voice to the right of Brooke.
Brooke quickly turned to see who dared to bother her right now. Couldn't they tell she was in a bad mood? Brooke arched a brow as she looked the girl over. She had dark red hair, a nice tan, legs even Brooke would kill for and her sense in fashion was pretty on point. All in all the girl didn't look half bad. She was no Brooke, but then again nobody was. She gave her a quick nod of recognition before turning away. She needed another drink and that guy better not give her any shit.
The girl got up from her seat a few stools away and went to sit closer to Brooke."I'll take two Cranberry and Vodkas."she told the bartender as he made his way to her. He nodded at her request before going to fix the said drinks."I hope you like that drink. One is for you."she said turning to face Brooke. The girl didn't seem too friendly right now, but with the right amount of alcohol and her wonderful charm that would change. Brooke shrugged as she turned in the girls direction once again."Actually I do, but right about now I'd drink anything with alcohol in it."said Brooke as she took the drink that was set beside her."Cheers."she held up the glass and clanked it with the one her new drinking buddy for the night held.
"So is your name really Rachel?"asked the girl curiously after she'd taken a long satisfying drink. The conversation had to start sometime and by the look of things if she didn't initiate it, it wasn't gonna happen.
"According to my fake id it is."laughed Brooke taking another drink. She'd been going by that name for as long as she could remember."Why do you ask?"she questioned joining in on the meaningless conversation. The girl seemed harmless enough. And she was a bit bored.
The girl shrugged."Just curious I guess."she answered not really caring to sound interested.The night was as boring as she had anticipated and it was time for a change.
"Didn't anyone tell you curiosity killed the cat?"grinned Brooke playfully.
"I prefer to be well informed."
"I'll bite. What's your name Red?"asked Brooke not really caring for the answer, just going with it.
"Rachel."she stated nonchalantly with a shrug. It was what caught her attention in the first place. She'd known instantly that no way was this girl's name Rachel. She could just tell these things.
Brooke nodded."What are the odds of two Rachel's being in the bar at the same time tonight?"she let out with a laugh looking at her glass. Things worked out funny this way sometimes.
"Not too good seeing how that's not your real name."said Rachel with a laugh of her own.
"Touché."let out Brooke downing the last of her drink."I'll take another one of these."she called out to the bartender. She turned to Rachel."You want another one?"she asked deciding to be as generous as the girl beside her.
Rachel quickly chugged her drink in its entirety and nodded."What the hell? You only live once right?"That was her motto. She lived and breathed it. It got her through a lot of bad decisions in the past.
"Then make that two."smiled Brooke with a nod. The girl was turning out to be okay. Sure she didn't know her all that well, but that didn't really matter when alcohol was involved.
"So what is your name if not Rachel?"asked Rachel accepting the drink put in front of her. She'd been trying to guess for a while now. It was a game she played sometimes when she was bored. A lot of the times she'd guess right, but tonight she was stumped.
"Brooke."she simply stated not bothering with a last name. It wasn't like the red head was expecting one.
She nodded in recognition."Yeah, now that I think about it you definitely look like a Brooke."said Rachel taking in her appearance.
"Oh really? And how do Brooke's look."asked Brooke curiously awaiting her answer. This was gonna be good. The girl was filled with smart ass comments. The more she thought about it the more the two seemed to have in common.
"Boring."said Rachel pointedly with a smirk. She couldn't help it. Being a sarcastic smart ass was second nature to her.
Brooke couldn't help but laugh. It was like she expected."I think I like you."she said with a smile. She needed a good laugh tonight and this stranger was providing her with that.
"Sorry babe, but I don't swing that way."said Rachel holding up her hands. The girl was cute and all, but she hadn't had enough drinks for that.
Brooke rolled her eyes."Please. Like you could ever get with me."she shook her head at the absurd thought. There was a lot of things she'd tried, but that hadn't been one of them and it wasn't gonna be tonight.
"Oh really?"asked Rachel with an arched brow. This seemed like a challenge and she was always up for a challenge.
"Yeah, I have my standards too you know."she joked as she pretended to eye the girl with distaste.
"If I wanted you I could have you."stated Rachel matter of factly. It was something she liked to think. She was definitely hot and would be able to get anyone she wanted. Brooke included.
"It feels nice to be cocky about something that will never be proven. Doesn't it?"laughed Brooke. She was the same way. The similarities between the two were remarkable. Sure she'd settled down a bit after things got serious with Nathan, but before that and during their breaks she and this girl were exactly alike.
Rachel nodded."Damn straight it does."she smiled."So what brings you out here to this bad place on a school night little girl?"she playfully asked.
"You sure are nosy."stated Brooke with a smirk. The banter they had going was friendly and enjoyable.
"I told you I like to be informed. And as sad as it is you are the best looking person in the bar tonight. Well aside from me of course."she smiled confidently.
Brooke nodded."Of course."she repeated as she looked around at the prospects. It was a Sunday night and not very many people were in tonight, which would account for the lack of numerous sleaze bags not hitting on her. No, tonight she only had the pleasure of the red head beside her hitting on her, claiming she could get her in bed."I'd have to agree. There doesn't seem to be anything worth wasting my time on tonight."
"Exactly so it looks like the AA batteries are gonna get a workout tonight."smiled Rachel. Her eyes quickly lit up."Unless..."she trailed off.
"Seriously Rachel, I am not gonna hook up with you tonight."let out Brooke with a nervous laugh. She didn't think that was what Rachel was getting at, but you never know.
Rachel rolled her eyes at the brunette to her left."I am not even talking about that and it is me who is not hooking up with you."she added."I was talking about getting out of here and finding a party to crash. You game?"
"It's Sunday night. Who in their right mind would have a party tonight?"asked Brooke incredulously. The girl was crazy if nothing else.
"I'm sure we could find at least one good party at Duke."said Rachel with a mischievous smile."Collage guys don't care what day of the week it is. They just love to party."she added.
"Duke?"questioned Brooke amused. "Who said anything about going to Duke?"
"I did silly. So what do you say? You're not wimping out on me are you? I could really use a wing man tonight. Those collage guys can be a handful."she smirked.
The girl was seriously crazy, but the more Brooke thought about it the more the idea didn't sound so bad. She didn't have anything better to do and the last thing she wanted was to go home to another night of put downs by her mother followed by a pity party in her room. The crazy red head was offering her a way out of all that. All she had to do was take it."Fine. We'll go, but I play wing man to no one."smiled Brooke as she drained her drink, set a few bills down on the counter, and got up from the bar. She took a few steps before turning back to Rachel who still sat at the bar."Lets go friend."she said holding out her hand for Rachel to take.
Rachel eyed the brunette for a second before taking a drink from her glass. She hopped off the stool and grabbed a hold of Brooke."Ooh the fun we are gonna have tonight Rach."she teased with a smirk and pulled her new friend out of the bar.
Brooke was startled awake by the incessant tapping on her shoulder. She let out an annoyed groan and tried to move out of harms way. What the hell was going on?
"I wouldn't do that if I were you?"came a perky voice from above. She was trying her hardest to get Brooke out of this mess, seeing how it was her fault in the first place, but with Brooke's lack of help she figured she ought to just leave her here to fend for herself.
Brooke slowly opened her eyes, allowing the light to seep in. She had the worlds worse hangover and being forced awake was not helping matters. She tried to take in her surroundings and that's when she felt the heavy arm draped across her bare waist. She slowly looked down as to not wake whoever the arm belonged to. What the hell had she done?
"If I didn't know any better I'd say you look pretty comfy, but the look on your face says otherwise. Cheer up babe. Life is too short for regret. Just keep your chin up."advised Rachel who was crouched down beside Brooke's side of the bed fully dressed and presentable.
Brooke rolled her eyes at the red head."Enough with the after school special crap. Just tell me what happened."urged Brooke quietly. She remembered most of last night, but how she wound up in bed with this guy was a mystery.
Rachel let out a sigh."Okay, I can do that, but maybe we should get out of here first, you know before the faceless one wakes up."she cocked her head in the guys direction."Here slut."she laughed as held out a pile of clothes."I already gathered up your things. And I have to say that whatever went on in here must have been wild. I couldn't find your panties anywhere."she smiled. It was true. That garment was gonna have to be left behind. She'd had to let out a laugh when she walked in and saw the clothes scattered everywhere around the room.
Brooke glared at her."Just shut up and help me get the hell out of this bed."begged Brooke. The last thing she needed was for this guy to wake up and try to ask for her number. There was no way in hell there'd be a repeat of last night especially since she couldn't remember it.
Rachel rolled her eyes."Fine. I'll lift up his arm while you slink off the bed. Please do it fast. I don't need to see you in all your glory."she joked already holding up the guys arm. The things she did for friends and she hardly knew Brooke. She should consider herself lucky.
Brooke quickly slid out and hurriedly pulled on her clothes. She didn't bother with her shoes when the guy started to stir in the bed."Shit."whispered Brooke as she pulled Rachel out of the room as quickly and quietly as possible.
They made it safely outside and to the red heads car before either of them spoke. Brooke turned to her friend once the car started and they were on their way."Okay, now can you please tell me what the hell happened back there?"she urged impatiently. So many questions were circling around her head.
Rachel let out a sigh." After the way you acted last night I doubt you're a stranger to this."she chuckled."It's pretty clear what went on Brooke. You had sex."she stated firmly."Apparently it wasn't good sex or you'd remember it."she turned to the brunette sitting next to her."And I'm sorry for that."she smiled solemnly."But hey the consolation is my night wasn't any better. I guess we just picked the wrong fraternity house to crash last night."she shrugged carelessly.
Brooke shook her head."I know I had sex smart ass. I mean how did it happen? My mind is drawing a blank."she let out frustrated as she tried to recall the nights events.
"Well, you see when a guy and a girl are hot for each other..."she began playfully.
"Never mind."shouted Brooke who quickly regretted it as the pounding in her head intensified. Getting a straight answer from this girl was apparently not an option.
Rachel eyed the the girl beside her and let out a sigh."I'm just messing with you Brooke. Look it wasn't a big deal. The guys we hooked up with meant nothing. Lets just pretend last night didn't happen. I mean we're both okay. Mind you we both have headaches from hell, but all in all we're fine. You had fun last night. I know you did. You kept shouting it every ten minutes and it got your mind off you jerky ex boyfriend, his brother, and your pushy best friend."off the confused look on Brooke's face she went to explain."Yeah, after one too many drinks you spilled everything about your torrid love affair with the brothers and your Peyton dysfunction. And unlike you I remember everything about last night."she said pointedly.
"Great."muttered Brooke looking out the window. Last night had been a disaster. She'd had sex with a guy she couldn't point out in a line up even if her life depended on it and she'd apparently divulged everything going wrong in her life to a stranger.
"Don't worry. I know how to keep my mouth shut. Your secrets are safe with me."said Rachel with a genuine smile. It was true. She wasn't one to broadcast her indiscretions or anyone elses...unless they deserved it.
Brooke looked over and surprisingly saw sincerity in the girl's face."Thanks."she said in appreciation. She wasn't sure what to think of the fiery red head, but she was happy for this small favor.
"So you okay to drive home?"asked Rachel as she pulled up behind Brooke's car which was still parked at Blue Post."I can follow you home if you want."she offered.
Brooke shook her head."No. I'm good."she unbuckled her seatbelt and opened the car door before turning back to the girl."Thank you Rachel. I mean last night turned out to be a complete mess, but you definitely got my mind off of everything. I really needed it."she smiled."I'll see you around."
Rachel nodded."Any time Rach."she once again teased. The girls shared a small laugh."Bye Brooke."she gave a small wave before shifting the car in gear and driving off. Last night hadn't been too bad. In fact it had been a lot of fun. Who would have thought her first night in Tree Hill would turn out like it had? She was glad to have made a friend. Drinking was never fun alone and this Brooke girl seemed like the perfect person to have around. She'd have to get to know her better, but enough of that for now because right now she had to get ready for her first day at Tree Hill High.
Oh what fun that was gonna be...
Okay so I feel like I should say a little something about this chapter. I had a very hard time deciding on whether or not I should have Brooke sleep with a random guy. I was torn because I didn't want everyone to hate her because of it, but after talking to a few people I felt better about my decision to keep it. This guy doesn't mean anything and won't really be a factor at all. It was simply a drunken mistake that serves a purpose storyline wise. And no this wont turn into a pregnant whose the daddy thing. Nothing like that. lol It's more along the lines of Rachel is a bad influence on Brooke. See what happened the first time she went out with her type of thing. Anyways I hope you all still enjoyed the read. Thanks.