Chapter Fifteen
Vegas, Public Intoxication, And Girl On Girl Action
"Good morning sweetie."smiled Deb as Nathan walked into the kitchen book bag in hand ready for school.
"Hey, mom."let out Nathan monotonously placing his backpack on the floor by the door.
Deb took in her sons tone and looked at him with worry."Is everything okay Nate? You don't sound like yourself. In fact you haven't been yourself in a while. What's going on?"she urged him to talk to her. She and Nathan had always had a good relationship in the past. Hopefully he'd feel comfortable enough to open up and talk to her about whatever it was that was bothering him.
Nathan let out a sigh as he looked at his mom. She seemed sincerely interested in what was wrong with him. He'd always been able to talk to her in."It's Brooke, mom. I miss her."he let out honestly as he took a seat at the table next to his mother.
Deb frowned."I take it you two haven't worked things out."off the shake of his head she continued."I'm very surprised by that. The one thing I could always tell was that you two loved each other. What happened to change that?"she questioned hoping her son wouldn't see it as her pushing.
"Nothing has changed that. I still love her mom."he looked down not knowing what else to do.
Deb leaned over and took her sons hand in her own."But..."she trailed off ushering him to continue.
He took a deep breath and looked at his mom."But she makes me so damn mad mom. I mean seriously, she pisses me off so bad I can't see straight."he let out a heavy sigh.
"The fact that she makes you feel so deeply just means that you love her. If not than you wouldn't care either way. You should think about sweetie."informed Deb.
"It's just that she has done some things I'm not sure I can get over and then me being the jerk that I am did things to get back at her and somewhere we both crossed the line and I don't think we can find our way back."he closed his eyes and shook his head. It felt good to get all this out in the open. Talking to his mother always made him feel better. He loved that about her.
Deb shook her head as well."I don't believe that. I happen to believe that you two will make it through this. You and Brooke have known each other far too long and have been through too much to let your prides ruin what you have. Maybe if you take the first step Brooke will follow and things can go back to being good."she let out hopeful.
"She hates me mom. I tried talking to her last night and she doesn't want to hear it. And then she..."he trailed off not able to bring himself to say it. Thinking about having to see her kiss Lucas was hard enough.
"She what?"questioned his mother seeing this was bothering her son. She would always be on her sons side, but she knew him and with everything she was really disappointed in him. Him and Brooke.
"She just did something to prove to me how much she hates me. I seriously think we're done this time."he spoke barely above a whisper. He hated sounding so vulnerable, but he'd already tried the angry thing and that hadn't worked.
"Well with that attitude you probably are."she affirmed."If you love her like you say you do then you shouldn't give up."she advised.
"She's already moved on with someone else mom."he shouted. It was killing him feeling this way. For a long time now he'd acted like he could care less about Brooke and now it was becoming too hard to keep up that facade.
"Then fight for her Nathan. Show her that you still care. Do what makes you happy. I doubt whoever this person she's with is, is as important to her as you."she said trying to raise her sons spirits. Maybe she should go have a talk with Brooke as well.
Lucas walked through the door as the words slipped out of Deb's mouth. The tension in the room was undeniable. He'd felt it the second his foot hit the floor."Hey guys."he said nervously. Off of Deb's genuine smile he knew she wasn't informed of his part in last nights events. Off of Nathan's evil glared he could tell his brother was still furious.
"Good morning Lucas."smiled Deb. She couldn't help but notice her sons jaw tighten at the sight of his brother. Apparently those two still weren't getting along."Would either of you like me to fix you some eggs and toast before school?"she offered.
"No thanks Deb."smiled Lucas who grabbed an apple."I should be going. Thanks though."he said before exiting the kitchen.
"What about you sweetie? You hungry?" she asked turning to her son.
Nathan shook his head."No, I should get going too."he said as he got up from the table and head toward the door.
"Wait."called out Deb as she went after Nathan and pulled him into a hug."Everything is gonna be okay."she promised as she pulled away and carefully rubbed Nathan's arms."When people care as deeply about each other as you and Brooke do, things tend to work out. Don't forget that."she smiled and hugged her son one more time before playfully pushing him to the door."No get out of here."she laughed.
Nathan smiled."Thanks mom, for everything. I love you."
"I love you too baby."she let out as he let himself out of the house. She hated seeing her son hurt this way. He shouldn't have to be dealing with things like this. Brooke either. She decided then to make it a point to try and have a talk with Brooke.
Brooke drug herself down the hall at the slowest possible pace. School was the last place she wanted to be today. She had the worlds worst headache and that topped with the fact that she'd slept with some strange guy last night was almost too much to bare. Technically she really hadn't done anything wrong. She wasn't in a relationship with anyone so if she wanted to have sex with a random guy, then what was the harm?
The harm was that she felt horrible about it. Yeah, she might not have been with anyone at the time, but the last thing she wanted was to stoop down to Nathan's level and that's exactly what she'd done.
She began to think everything would have been better if she would have just stayed her miserable ass at home. If she had, then the pounding in her head wouldn't be killing her and she'd be able look at herself in the mirror without feeling lousy.
But what was done was done and she couldn't change it now. All she could do was forget it ever happened. Besides it wasn't like anyone would ever find out. The only person who knew was Rachel and she wasn't around. Everything would be okay if she could just forget last night ever happened. It shouldn't be hard since she couldn't remember half of it anyways.
"Wow. What happened to you?"questioned Peyton as she stood next to Brooke at her locker."You look like crap."she added playfully.
Brooke gave her as best a glare as she could muster up."Thanks."her voice dripped with sarcasm. Her best friend always was the blunt one.
"Sorry. So you gonna tell me why you look like ass or what?"laughed Peyton as she continued to goad Brooke. She wasn't sure what went on, but with the way Brooke looked it had to be interesting.
"I had a rough night okay. One that I really don't want to talk about."she stated with a heavy sigh deciding to give up on finding her books. She wasn't even sure what class she had next. She wasn't even sure what time of day it was.
"You look pretty out of it Brooke. You should have just stayed home today. I mean you already missed the first two classes."informed Peyton with a smile.
Brooke shook her head."There was no way I was staying in that house all day with that woman still there. I rather suffer here. Besides there are just enough classes left for me to attend in order to be able to practice with the squad this afternoon."sure she wished she wasn't here, but when the alternative was being cooped up in the house with her mother this place smelled like a bed of roses. She took in Peyton's concerned look."I'm fine Peyt. My hangover is almost gone. All I have is a headache which will no doubt go away after a tall cup of strong coffee."her mouth watered at the thought of the hot liquid streaming down her throat.
"We could go down to the cafeteria and get you one. I'm sure it's already open. It's the freshman's lunch hour." offered Peyton.
Brooke nodded at her best friend."That actually sounds like heaven right now. Lets go."smiled Brooke happy that Peyton was a genius.
Peyton smiled as she fell in step with her best friend."Um Brooke, are we cool? I mean last night...I didn't mean to come off as a pushy bitch or anything. I shouldn't have said anything. I know you have a lot going on right now. I'm sorry. I really don't want you mad at me."she apologized to her best friend.
Brooke nodded and waved off her apology."Don't worry about it Peyt. I was the one acting like a bitch. I was just pissed at my mom and I took it out on you. I'm sorry."she let out a little embarrassed by her actions.
"God I'm so glad we're okay. I hate it when we fight."chuckled Peyton. She and Brooke had been friend all their lives. She couldn't remember a time when she didn't know Brooke so on the rare occasion that they fought it was hard on both girls.
Brooke nodded in agreement."I just wish we'd settled this yesterday then maybe I wouldn't have felt the need to get plastered among other things."she laughed.
Peyton looked over at her friend with curiosity." What exactly happened to you last night?"she was definitely intrigued now.
Brooke shook her head."I don't want to talk about it."she affirmed. The more she thought about it the more she wasn't sure why. Yeah she did something she wouldn't normally do anymore, but other that that one indiscretion the night had been a lot of fun, well what she could remember of it anyway. Hanging out with Rachel had been a lot of fun. It was one thing going out with your friends and having a good time and it was another going out and having a good time with someone who didn't know all your baggage and who didn't expect anything or judge you. Rachel was that person last night and felt good. Hopefully she'd hang out with her again, minus the drunken sexcapade.
"Was it that bad?"questioned Peyton as they stood in line to collect the hot beverage. From the looks of Brooke's hangover a good time had to have been had somewhere in the middle.
Brooke shrugged."Last night wasn't bad it's the headache I have now that is making me swear I'll never drink again."let out Brooke with a small laugh.
"I think we say that all the time."smiled Peyton as she handed Brooke her cup of coffee.
"It's true. It always takes me a few days before I forget I promised never to drink again."she took a drink and instantly felt satisfaction."Ahh."she moaned."Now I can get through the rest of the day. Lets get to class P.Sawyer. We're already late."said Brooke as she linked her arm through Peyton's.
Peyton strolled into the gym in practice attire ready for whatever vigorous routine Brooke would throw at them today. She was headed to toward the squad when her eyes wondered toward the boys side. There stood Nathan talking to some red head she had never seen before."Who the hell is that?"she asked, eye quirked when she stood next to Bevin.
This was all Brooke needed today.
Bevin shrugged."Her name is Rachel or something. She's new. I had her for health class earlier."she watched the two continue to talk."Brooke is gonna be mad."she shook her head. Brooke always pitched a fit anytime a girl talked to Nathan, whether they were together or on a break.
"No, more like pissed."chuckled Peyton. That girl wasn't gonna know what hit her when Brooke was done with her. She thought about going over to warn the poor girl, but decided against it. She didn't know her, but already she had a bad feeling about her.
"So are you like the star of the team or something?"asked Rachel as she watched Nathan yet again sink the ball through the hoop."Because if you're not I would love to see who is. You haven't missed a single shot since I've been talking to you."she smiled up at him. This guy was sexy and she was gonna pull out all the stops to get him.
Nathan looked over at the girl. She was gorgeous, he had to give her that, but she just wasn't his type."I'm the captain, yes."he let out before dribbling the ball and letting go. It of course went in.
"Nice."growled Rachel with an arched brow. They didn't make guys like this at her last school. Maybe Tree Hill wasn't gonna be so bad after all. She could definitely find ways to pass the time with him.
Nathan playfully rolled his eyes at her and shook his head as he let out a chuckle."So what are you doing in here anyways?"he asked curious. Spectators weren't normally allowed in the gym during practices.
"You mean beside talking to the captain of the basketball team?"she shrugged with a sexy grin."I was hoping to join the cheer leading squad. Principal Turner saw on my transcript that I used to cheer and said I should try out. Any advice on how to get on the captains good side?"she asked with interest. If this girl was anything like her last leader she'd be a bitch.
Nathan let out a nervous laugh. Did he know how to get on Brooke's good side? Now that was a question seeing how she hated him right now."Umm...I don't think I could help you with that. Sorry."he finished with a sympathetic smile.
Rachel waved it off."It's fine. I'm pretty good with my mouth."she let out with a smirk. After getting the shocked reaction she was hoping for she explained."For sucking up. Duh."she giggled." It should be a piece of cake."she smiled confidently.
Nathan had to chuckle at that. The girl just didn't know Brooke. He wondered if he should let this girl in on the fact that not too long ago Brooke chopped off a girls hair right here in the gym because she crossed her. He was tempted to do just that to see the look on the girls face, but decided it probably wasn't the best idea. Brooke's business was just that, her business. And he decided that after everything he'd done to her the least he could do now was leave her alone no matter how upset she made him last night for kissing his brother. The games were over.
"What was that laugh all about? Do you doubt my skills?"she whispered sexily as she began to close the gap between herself and the hottie in front of her."Maybe we should do something about that."she smirked.
Nathan backed away slightly a little uncomfortable. This girl was forward if nothing else. She kinda reminded him of Brooke.
Brooke.
His eyes flew toward the gym doors as Brooke walked through. Her eyes immediately fell on him and an angry glare replaced the carefree look she had just seconds ago. There was no doubt, Brooke was pissed. They might not have been together anymore, but that didn't stop her from disliking every girl he talked to and the same went for him as well. He instinctively backed up a bit more.
Brooke watched Nathan stand awfully close to a red haired girl. A girl that looked a lot like...Rachel. The girl turned her head slightly and she caught sight of her face. It was her. What was she doing here? Without waiting another second she walked over to the two and grabbed the red head by the arm and escorted her away from her very stunned looking ex boyfriend.
Peyton stood off in the corner with Bevin smiling. This was about to get interesting.
"Oh my god Brooke?"smiled Rachel as she got over her initial shock of being dragged away from the hot guy she was getting somewhere with."I didn't know you went to this school."she said a little excited. This was better than anything she could have dreamed up. Now she had a partner in crime here. Someone to get into trouble with on a daily basis.
"Stay away from him Rachel. He's off limits. You got it?"scowled Brooke tightly. Maybe she was over stepping the boundaries of normal ex girlfriend behavior, but right now she really didn't care.
Rachel's eyes narrowed in confusion."Who? Nathan? Oh is he yours? I'm sorry. I didn't know."she said as she held up her hands in surrender. The guy sure wasn't acting like he was taken, but she wasn't about to offer up that bit of information.
"He's not mine, but he's still off limits."said Brooke as she bit her bottom lip. How was she supposed to explain all this to Rachel? They weren't together so technically he could date whoever he wanted, but since she and Rachel were now somewhat friends there were lines that shouldn't be crossed and this was one of them.
"What's going on Brooke?"it took Rachel a second before all the pieces of the puzzle fell into place."Oh wow. That's Nathan, your ex. I'm so sorry. I didn't know. Sure thing. He's nothing."she affirmed. She was known to be a bit of a bitch at her old school and normally when a girl said a guy was off limits she tended to try to get him harder, but not this time. This time she would back off like asked.
Brooke nodded."Good."she shook her head ignoring the many pairs of eyes on her and Rachel."What are you doing here anyways?"she asked after her initial surprise at seeing her with Nathan.
"I go here now and I'm hoping to impress the captain."she watched the glare once again appear on Brooke's face and she rolled her eyes."Not of the basketball team. I told you don't even worry about that. He's totally off limits like you said."Brooke's face softened."I want to try out for the squad. I'm waiting to talk to the captain to see what I have to do to audition."she smiled.
Brooke looked at the girl."Are you any good?"she asked with a raised brow. If her dancing last night was anything like her cheer moves the answer was yes. From what she saw last night the girl could definitely move.
Rachel rolled her eyes as if insulted by the question."Please. Good doesn't even begin to cover it."Brooke looked at her skeptically."I used to cheer at my other school."she offered up as a reference.
Brooke nodded."Sounds good enough for me. We really need someone right now with the classic coming up soon. I just kicked this bitch off the squad a couple of weeks ago."she still got angry when she thought about Teresa, but at the same time it brought a smile to her face when she thought about how she sent her away crying with less hair than she started with.
"Wait? You're the captain?"questioned Rachel with a smile. It was funny how things worked out sometimes. She watched Brooke nod."This is so awesome."she squealed as she pulled Brooke into a hug."I guess I picked the right drunk to talk to last night."she muttered with amusement.
Brooke scoffed and pushed her away."Just shut up and show me what you got. This is a trial basis thing only. You're lucky I like you because I never... never let anyone in without a vigorous audition."she stated firmly. Brooke stopped in her tracks as Peyton stood in front of her."Hey Peyt."
Peyton looked at her with confusion. She expected some yelling. Maybe a slap or two or even a hair cut, but not a hug. It was as if they knew each other which was impossible because the girls had to have just moved here."What's going on?"she voiced for everyone.
"Okay, come on over girls."called out Brooke as she waved everyone over."This is Rachel. She's new here and she's taking Teresa's spot."she watched all the reactions on the girls faces and was pleasantly surprised she didn't see any cattiness. Well there was the confused and pissed off look on Peyton's face, but she decided to ignore it for now. It was probably because she'd expected a fight when she forcefully removed Rachel from Nathan's side. Her head quickly jerked in his direction and caught his eye. He looked just as confused as Peyton. She shook her head and broke their contact."Anyhow I want us to do the routine we've been working on all the way through to show Rachel. Lets all get into formation and Rachel you go..."she trailed off when the door to the gym swung open and slammed shut behind Lucas.
"Damn now he is FINE."let out Rachel huskily as she took in the lovely sight. Blonde, short spiky hair and eyes as blue as the ocean. Now he was something she could have fun with.
Brooke rolled her eyes."Rachel."said Brooke as she slapped her new friends arm lightly. All this girl seemed to think about was guys. It wasn't a big deal or anything, but she seemed to have a thing for guys that were not for her.
"What?"huffed Rachel."Is he off limits too? God, you can't keep every guy for yourself. You're supposed to learn to share in kindergarten Brooke."she raved half seriously with a smile.
"Shut up you hag. That's Lucas, Nathan's brother."she explained. Rachel knew all about them so that was explanation enough.
"Oh. The one that you..."she trailed off in discretion. Brooke sure knew how to pick them. Both those guys were hot. The way she figured there were two of them and her and Brooke. Brooke didn't have room in her life for both brothers. All Brooke had to do was pick which one she wanted and she'd take the other. She couldn't help but smile at the thought.
"Yeah."nodded Brooke."Everyone take five. I'll be right back."Said Brooke already making her way toward Lucas.
"I wonder what that is all about."said Bevin watching her friend walk off.
Rachel turned the the girls and waved a hand in the air."It's nothing. Her and Lucas just have some unresolved issues to work out."she smiled.
Peyton glared at her. Who the hell did this girl think she was? What did she know about Brooke and Lucas and their issues? She didn't know this girl, but she already couldn't stand her. She acted like she knew everything about Brooke and her problems. The girl didn't know a damn thing about anything."And what do you know about all that?"she asked coldly.
Rachel turned to her."You're Peyton right? The best friend?"she could tell the girl was annoyed with her."I didn't mean to step on anyones toes. Brooke just told me some things last night and I just gave my assessment of the situation."she said with a shrug. It really was harmless. She wasn't going for jealousy...yet.
"Last night?"questioned Peyton. She was the one Brooke went out with? Brooke told her all about Nathan and Lucas? About her? Whatever was going on, she didn't like. Not one bit.
"Yeah, we went out and had a really good time. Who would have thought the girl that comes off as frigid could party like a rock star."she laughed. She couldn't help but notice the evil look the girl was giving her. Normally she wouldn't care if someone disliked her, but this was Brooke's best friends and she knew that if she intended to keep hanging out with Brooke she would have to get along with her friends."Look it was nothing. We just had a few drinks and crashed a party at Duke. I'm sure she already told you all about it."she smiled.
"Yeah."whispered Peyton. She couldn't help but wonder if it was really nothing then why hadn't Brooke said anything to her.
"Luke."called out Brooke as she made her way to him. She was pleasantly surprised when he stopped and looked her way."Hey, can we talk?"she asked warily. He had no reason to stay and listen to her. After what she'd done to him yesterday he had every right to turn around and walk away. She wouldn't blame him for never wanting to speak to her again, but she had to at least try. To at the very least say she was sorry once again.
Lucas looked around for Whitey. He didn't see him him anywhere so he gave her a quick nod."Yeah, lets go over here."he said nodding toward a vacant corner in the gym. He was still a little upset, but the look on her face, one of sadness and guilt had been too much. Besides it wasn't like he planned on staying mad at her forever. What was done was done.
Brooke waited until they were away from the others before she began her much needed apology."I'm sorry. I am a horrible person. I shouldn't have kissed you yesterday. It was wrong to use you like that. I wasn't thinking. All that was going through my mind was wanting to hurt Nathan the way he hurt me. I was being selfish and I hate that I hurt you in the process. I know I don't deserve it, but do you think there's a chance that you can forgive me?"she asked as she took a much needed breath.
Lucas couldn't help the smile that appeared as he watched the girl speak without taking a breath in between sentences. The look on her face was a serious one. He could tell she was really sorry about last night. He nodded at her and shrugged."I already forgave you."he smiled at the relieved look that crossed her face."I'm sorry for just walking out on you yesterday. It was a bastard move."he looked down at her.
Brooke shook her head and looked at him in disbelief. She was the one that messed up and he was here apologizing to her for doing what she would have done had the roles been reversed. That along with a slap."You have nothing to apologize for Lucas. You walked out because you were angry and rightfully so. I was so wrong for doing what I did. It won't happen again. I swear."she spoke with confidence.
"Okay."he said with a smile."That's all I need. Now lets drop it. It was nothing worth mentioning again."he exclaimed.
Brooke continued to eye him."You are such an amazing guy Luke. I am so lucky to have you as a friend."she closed the gap between them and pulled him into a tight hug."Thank you."she whispered into his ear.
Lucas gave her a gentle squeeze."Anytime."he replied just before Whitey called out to them.
"Ms. Davis, do you think you could please detach yourself from one of my better players? I really would appreciate it."he shouted sarcastically. To say he'd been surprised to see those two in such an intimate embrace would be an understatement. The last he knew the girl was involved with his other star player, his brother to be exact. He never would understand high school romance and how quickly they changed.
Brooke pulled away from Lucas a little embarrassed that Whitey called attention to her and Lucas."Sure thing Coach Durham. Sorry."she whispered before turning back to Lucas."I'll just talk to you later. Thanks again for not hating me."she smiled shyly.
Lucas rolled his eyes."Have you met yourself? Nobody can stay mad at you for long. You're too lovable."he finished with a sexy grin.
Brooke scoffed at him."Whatever."she said before turning back to her squad. Lucas was such a nice great guy. He was so sweet. Her life would be so much less complicated if she could just make herself feel something for him, but her life wasn't built for simplicity. No, she had to still be in love with the brother that treated her like the shit stuck on the bottom of his shoe.
Peyton watched Brooke make her way over and was about to go over and ask what that was about when Rachel beat her to it. She couldn't help the anger that was building up. It was like this girl was trying to steal her friend and that just wasn't gonna happen. No, not if she had anything to do with it. Deciding to cut off the red head she spoke up before Rachel had the chance."Are you okay B?"she asked glaring at the girl who looked a little annoyed with her for cutting her off.
Brooke nodded at her best friend."Yeah, I just had to take care of something. Lucas is a good guy."she smiled.
"I told you so."laughed Peyton. It was a good thing that Brooke was starting to see it too.
Rachel rolled her eyes at the two. This sappy crap was too much."So does that mean the blonde blue eyed hottie is off limits as well? Because I can see myself having some fun with him."she smirked."And I'm not talking about the type "fun" I had last night."she said using the air quotes to make a point.
Peyton shook her head at the girl while Brooke just laughed."No Rachel, Lucas is not off limits. But I will say that he is not about casual hook ups."she informed.
"Ahh, says the girl he met and hooked up with at a bar."said Rachel, voice dripping with sarcasm.
Peyton eyed them suspiciously. How much had Brooke actually told this girl about them?
"Even so."let out Brooke sharply."Don't try anything with him unless you're serious about it."she advised. She'd hate to see Lucas get hurt by her new friend and by the type of person Rachel appeared to be that might just happen.
"Duly noted."smiled Rachel as she let her eyes wonder over to her new obsession. This was gonna be good.
"Okay."clapped Brooke loudly to get everyones attention."Break time is over. It's time to get back to work. Line up people. It's show time. Rachel just pay attention and see if you can get this down. If you're as good as you claim to be then it shouldn't be hard."she smirked playfully.
"You're such a bitch Rach."she let out a laugh. She'd really taken a liking to teasing Brooke with that name.
"Just shut it and pay attention."she turned to Peyton."You're with me Goldilocks."she said motioning her to take second position.
Peyton went to stand next to Brooke."So what's with her calling you Rach?"she asked.
Brooke smiled."She thinks its funny that my fake id is her real name so she teases me about it."said Brooke casually.
Peyton nodded."Well you two seem pretty chummy."she let out bitterly.
Brooke looked over at her when she caught the odd tone in her voice and shrugged."Yeah, she's alright. We have a lot in common."she watched Peyton roll her eyes at her comment."Why P. Sawyer, do I detect a hint of jealousy?"she smiled at the absurdity. She watched Peyton scowl at her."You shouldn't be you know. Jealous, I mean. Nobody is as important to me as you."she smiled and pulled her friend in for a hug."I love you P. Sawyer."
"You too B. Davis."laughed Peyton feeling a little embarrassed she had to have Brooke make her feel better about this non issue.
"I think I'm gonna throw up."shouted Rachel as she pretended to stick a finger down her throat.
"Just make sure you clean it up."smiled Brooke."Now lets do this girls and I don't want any screw ups."she urged her squad.
"Lucas."called out Rachel as she watched him walk past her toward the parking lot. That boy was damn good looking from where she stood.
Lucas stopped in his tracks when he heard his name being called. He looked up with a confused look. They didn't know each other so he didn't know why this girl was calling him, but he wasn't one to be rude."Hi."he said not sure what else to say. This girl definitely wasn't hard on the eyes.
Rachel let out a smile."Hi. I'm Rachel. I just wanted to introduce myself. It's not really easy being the new kid on the block."she finished hoping that was enough to start a conversation.
Lucas nodded. It wasn't too long ago that he was in her position."Yeah, I know how you feel. I was the new kid before you got here. So I guess a thank you is in order since you took my title."he let out a chuckle.
Rachel couldn't help herself from letting out a laugh of her own. This guy was so cute. His efforts at a joke were cute. She could definitely see herself having fun with Lucas."Well you're welcome I guess. Being new isn't so bad when you have the schools queen on your side."she explained.
Lucas nodded."Ahh yes, I noticed you and Brooke were getting along. How'd you pull that off? She's not the easiest to get along with."he asked with a sideways look.
She shrugged."It was all a freaky accident, coincidence if you will. I met Brooke last night and we went out and hit it off. I was actually surprised to see her here today."
"Well good for you then. I take it Brooke let you on the squad."he offered up his observation. This conversing thing wasn't so bad.
She nodded."Yeah, I used to cheer at my old school. Brooke's just giving me a shot because she said she just kicked someone off recently."
Lucas let out a hearty laugh."Yes, that she did. Poor girl is still cowering in fear. I swear Brooke showed her and everyone else not to mess with her."said Lucas shaking his head.
Rachel arched a brow intrigued."What did she do?" this sounded interesting.
Lucas leaned into her and spoke softly."She cut her hair off right there in the gym. The guys say she still has it as a souvenir."he joked.
Rachel's eyes widened."Are you being for real or just pulling my leg?"she asked pointedly. That didn't sound plausible.
Holding up his hands, Lucas spoke."Hey, if you don't believe me ask her yourself. I'm sure she'll tell you. I bet it's one of her proudest moments."he smiled.
"I just might have to do that. I know some of you think its cool to pull one over on the new kid. Who knows, you might even be trying to scare me."she said playfully.
Lucas held a hand to his chest."Me."he said in mock disbelief."Does it look I would do that? I'm a good guy."he spoke as confidently as he could muster up.
"So I've been told."let out Rachel with a quick roll of her eyes. One thing that she would never forget was that everyone thought he was one of the good guys and right now a good guy was exactly what she needed in her life.
This intrigued Lucas."Really? Care to tell me what else you've been told about me?"he asked with a slight smirk. This girl seemed interesting and talking to her was kinda fun. It would be even better if she let him in on the other's inner thoughts of him, preferably Brooke Davis' thoughts on him.
Rachel shook her head."You see I would tell you, but then I'd have to kill you."she smiled."And you, Lucas, are too fine to harm."she gave him a sexy grin.
This caused Lucas to blush slightly. He wasn't sure why exactly, but either way he was."I'll take that as a compliment."he let out.
Rachel nodded."Good it was meant as one."she looked over his shoulder and spied Brooke coming out of the gym with Peyton."Well Lucas it was a real pleasure talking with you, but I have to say I don't really believe you on the whole hair cutting thing so I'm gonna go ask her now."she said pointing to Brooke.
"I'm hurt Rachel. You should know I don't lie."he said playfully.
She shrugged."Well I don't really know that, but hopefully we'll hang out enough so I can learn everything that you do and don't do."she gave him a suggestive look.
Lucas chuckled at the underlining meaning of her comment."That could be arranged, but if you want to catch Brooke you better hurry."he said said pointing to her approaching her car.
Rachel looked to where he was pointing."Shit."she shrieked."Well, I'll be seeing you Lucas."she smiled before turning and heading toward Brooke.
Lucas looked after her and chuckled shaking his head before walking to his car. This girl was gonna be trouble. That much was already obvious.
"Hey hoe. Where you sneaking off to?"asked Rachel as she stood next to Brooke's powder blue Beetle.
Both Brooke and Peyton looked over at her."It's called going home Rachel. You should try it once in a while."smiled Brooke.
Brooke's comment caused Rachel to roll her eyes."This coming from the girl who didn't make it home until this morning."she smirked in retaliation.
Peyton playfully hit Brooke."You didn't tell me you stayed out all night. What exactly happened last night?"she asked in hopes that Brooke would finally tell her.
Brooke scowled at Rachel."It was like I said Peyt. We went out and got a little wasted. I ended up crashing at Rachel's last night."lied Brooke guiltily. It wasn't that she wanted to keep things from her best friend. It was just that she was somewhat ashamed of what she'd done and didn't want anyone to know.
Peyton looked at her skeptically when she noticed the confused look Rachel gave Brooke. Something was definitely going on between those two.
"She's right. The girl just can't hold her liquor. The poor girl was crashed on my couch before I even walked through the door."explained Rachel feeling as if she should help Brooke since she was the one that slipped up about their indiscretions. She wasn't sure why Brooke would want to keep it from her so called best friend, but figured she had her reasons so she wasn't going to question it.
Peyton decided to let her gut instinct go and go with the story they gave her."Well that wasn't always the case. Before she hooked up with Nathan she could drink grown men under the table."laughed Peyton looking at Rachel."You know Nathan right? The guy you were flirting with earlier."she let out bitterly.
The comment garnered a glare from the red head."Yeah, well I didn't know who he was until scary Davis yanked me to the side and demanded I stay away from her man." pointed Rachel sharply." Which reminds me."she turned to Brooke dismissing Peyton. That girl was seriously getting on her nerves. She hadn't done a damn thing to her to deserve this hostile treatment. The least the blonde could do was wait until she did do something. Which no doubt, she was bound to do."You didn't tell me you chopped some girl's hair off for the fun of it."she smiled in disbelief.
Brooke's mouth fell open."Who told you?"she laughed. She'd wondered how long it would take before that bit of information would make its way to her new friend.
"Lucas. We were talking and he let it slip. I told him I didn't believe him so he said to ask you myself."
"Lucas? You sure move fast."snarled Peyton.
"Peyt."huffed Brooke as she playfully hit her arm."Stop."she'd be lying if she said she hadn't noticed all the icy comments her best friend was sending her new friend. She just couldn't understand why. She'd have to talk to her about it later.
"It's fine. She's right. I do move fast. If I see something I want I go after it. It's actually one of my better qualities."she informed lightly.
Brooke rolled her eyes."If you say so."
"So what did that girl do to make you go all G. I. Jane on her?"asked Rachel curiously. Brooke didn't seem like the type to snap and go crazy, not that she didn't think Brooke could hold her own.
Brooke let out a heavy sigh which made Peyton think she wasn't gonna tell Rachel anything. So when Brooke did it was a big surprise.
"She was the one that told Nathan about my little "thing" with Lucas. The bitch actually thought an I'm sorry was gonna make everything okay."let out Brooke as she shook her head. Just thinking about it was pissing her off all over again. She still hated Teresa.
Rachel looked on in amazement. She wasn't sure what she'd do if someone did that to her. Now thinking about Brooke's little stylist moment, it didn't seem so outrageous."Please tell me kicked her ass too."
Brooke shook her head."No, but Peyton and I did slap the hell out of her. I was a little upset that Peyton got to her first though."she said looking over at her best friend.
"Nice work Blondie."said Rachel deciding to forget all the animosity."It seems like Brooke is lucky to have you as her friend."she let out facing Peyton.
Peyton looked at her skeptically. She wasn't sure why the girl was giving her a compliment."Thanks."she let out hesitantly. Maybe she was being too judgmental. Maybe she should cool it for a while. Rachel hadn't actually done anything to her other than make her feel insecure about her friendship with Brooke. Which was probably a problem on her part.
"I am lucky."said Brooke."And as fun as this conversation is, Peyton and I should get going."smiled Brooke.
Rachel nodded."Yeah, I should get home too. I gotta figure out what to wear for school tomorrow. I wanna look nice for Lucas."she smirked playfully.
Brooke rolled her eyes."Whatever. Just be careful with him. I'm serious. If not I'll send Peyton here to kick your ass. She's good at that type of thing. It's why I keep her around."laughed Brooke when Peyton jabbed her lightly."Ouch! I'm kidding."she chuckled.
"I already heard you Brooke. Lucas is a good guy. I got it."she stuck her tongue out at her."So where we going tonight?"she asked shifting her backpack as she got ready to walk to her car.
"Going?"questioned Brooke confused.
"Yes, where we going out tonight? I figure since we had such an amazing time last night."she rolled her eyes at her statement."We should do it again."
"It's a school night Rachel."informed Brooke as if that was enough explanation to stay in.
"Yeah, well it was a school night last night too and we still went out. Come on Brooke you have to come. I don't want to go out by myself. I need you."she pleaded child like with a stomp of her foot."Hell you can even come Blondie."said Rachel hoping that would sweeten the pot. She should get to know Peyton better anyways and what better way to do that then with alcohol.
"Oh no."said Peyton holding out her hands." I have a quiz first period tomorrow and I can't be hungover."she explained.
"Fine party pooper."smiled Rachel."What about you Brooke? Please don't bail on me. I need you."she further pouted. It was a skill she'd mastered seeing how it always got her what she wanted.
Brooke scoffed and rolled her eyes."Fine, I'll go. I'm hanging with Peyt now, but call me later and we'll figure out what to do."gave in Brooke. Going out again didn't seem like such a bad idea just as long as she didn't end up in bed with a random guy again.
"Yay!"celebrated Rachel. It still worked and even on the same sex. She knew Brooke was her kind of person."Great. I'll call you later."she turned to Peyton."You sure you don't want to tag along? I promise you'll have fun."she tried to persuade.
Peyton shook her head."I saw Brooke this morning. I don't want to be like that tomorrow. Besides my boyfriend Jake is coming over."she said a little taken back at Rachel's invite. The girl seemed genuine.
"Ohh, I saw Jake, he's really cute."laughed Rachel at the glare Peyton sent her."Anyhow have fun with that and Brooke, I'll call you later."she said with a wave before walking off toward her car.
"Well she's a bit of a character."said Peyton as she got into Brooke's car.
Brooke nodded."Yeah, but she's harmless. I'd really appreciate it if you'd give her a chance Peyton. No more rude comments okay?"she asked seriously.
Peyton rolled her eyes and stopped when she caught the serious look on Brooke's face."Fine. I'll stop."Brooke eyed her skeptically causing Peyton to sigh." Seriously I promise. In fact I already decided to do just that before you asked."she stated matter of factly.
"Good."said Brooke starting up her car and heading to her house.
"So are you sure going out again tonight is such a good idea Brooke?"asked Peyton once they were on the road.
Brooke shrugged."It's nothing Peyt. I need to do this. All I've been doing lately is staying at home and wallowing in self pity. I don't want to do that anymore. Going out and having a good time takes my mind off of everything and that's what I need right now."explained Brooke turning to see if her friend was getting it.
Peyton nodded."Okay then go out and have some fun, but don't over do it."she scolded finger pointing and all.
"I won't."laughed Brooke."Are you sure you don't want to come? I mean you're not using Jake as an excuse are you? Rachel wants you to come. I want you to come. It'll be fun."tried Brooke once again.
"I'm not using Jake as an excuse. He really is coming over. But maybe next time I'll come."said Peyton already pretty sure there was gonna be a next time. Rachel seemed like the partying type and Brooke seemed to want to go out and have fun just as much. She didn't blame her though. With everything that she'd been going through Brooke deserved to go out and let loose for a while.
"So you gonna help me pick out something to wear for tonight?"laughed Brooke a she let herself and Peyton into the house through the kitchen entrance and threw her keys down on the table.
"You going somewhere sweetie?"smiled Mrs. Davis. She'd been happy with her daughter last night when she went to check on her and found her room empty. No Brooke. No Nathan. They'd left together. Brooke had even stayed out all night. Which could only mean that she'd spent the night with her boyfriend. Now other parents might be upset at that fact, but not her. Brooke being with Nathan was setting herself up for a happy wealthy life. What more could a mother want for her only child?
Brooke subconsciously rolled her eyes when she heard her mother's voice."I sure am."she said casually as she went to the fridge."You want a diet coke Peyt?"
"Sure."answered Peyton from her spot next to the door.
"It's nice to see you Peyton."let out Brooke's mother evenly."You must say hello to your father for me."she smiled a smile so fake she had to know it was obvious. She'd never really cared for her daughters choice in friends.
"Will do Mrs. Davis."said Peyton courteously.
Mrs. Davis nodded at the young girl before turning to her daughter."So where is it that Nathan is taking you tonight?"she beamed wide, white teeth shining brightly.
Brooke scoffed."I'm not going anywhere with Nathan mother. I wish you would just get over that already. It's not gonna happen."she let out her voice raised slightly.
Mrs. Davis' brow narrowed."But I assumed after Nathan came by yesterday that you two had made up."she said voice full of confusion.
"Yeah well you assumed wrong mother. Now if you'll excuse us, Peyton and I have things to do."Brooke gave her mother a cold glare before proceeding out of the kitchen in which her mother abruptly stopped her.
"You wait one second Brookie. If you and Nathan didn't make up then where the hell were you all night?"she questioned furiously.
Brooke took a deep breath before answering."I was out okay?"was the only response she gave her mother.
Mrs. Davis shook her head."No, it's not okay. You stayed out all night and that is breaking the rules young lady."she bellowed. Maybe she was being hard on her daughter, but it was as if Brooke didn't see what was best for her. Tough love was definitely what was needed here.
Brooke burst out in an uncontrollable fit of laughter. It took her a few moments to get herself to calm down."I'm sorry, I thought I heard you say I broke the rules."she had to laugh again.
Mrs. Davis glared down at her daughter who was laughing at her."I did. You broke the rules and therefore you're grounded. You are to march straight up to your room and stay there all night."she turned to Peyton and gave her a tight smile."I'm gonna have to ask you to leave. Brooke is punished and can no longer have visitors.
Peyton stood rooted in her place.
Brooke glared at her mother angrily."Don't you dare try and dismiss my friend."yelled Brooke.
"Your friend Brookie is a bad influence and I want her out."shouted her mother just as upset. It was taking everything in her not to walk over and slap some sense into her daughter."You're grounded Brooke. Go upstairs and make yourself comfortable. You'll be up there until you come to your senses."
Shaking her head she took a step toward her mother."It's really funny when you try to act like a parent, but I don't need it. I have been taking care of myself long enough."
"Yeah, I can tell. Look at how horrible you're life has turned out. Apparently you need someone to tell you what to do. Then maybe you'd start acting like an adult."scolded Mrs. Davis.
"You can say what you want mother, but there is no way I am ever gonna listen to you. I'm grounded my ass. How can I break rules that I've never had?"she roared as she turned to Peyton."We're out of here."
Mrs. Davis beat her to the table and grabbed for her keys."I mean it Brooke. Go to your room. You now no longer have your car."
Brooke snorted at her mother."Keep the damn thing. No way am I gonna let that keep me here."she grabbed her purse and went for the door before turning back to her mother."Don't wait up mother. I won't be back until you're gone. So just leave. Nobody wants you here anyways."she stopped shortly getting an idea."Or is that why you're here? Daddy doesn't want you around either, does he?"she shook her head and opened the door. After ushering Peyton out she slammed the door behind her.
"Well that was an experience."chuckled Peyton as she and Brooke began their walk to her house.
"Urgh."screamed Brooke aloud."I hate that woman. I seriously without a doubt hate my mother. Who the hell does she think she is trying to ground me and taking away my car?"she shook her head furiously.
"I'm not sure I should say anything at all."smiled Peyton."Seeing how I'm such a bad influence on you."she laughed.
Brooke had to let out a smile."I can't believe she said that. I am so embarrassed that she's my mother. I mean look at us."she used her hands to motion for them and the the street."We're walking in the middle of the damn streets. And I have on heels. I should have told you to hold her down while I grabbed my keys."she laughed at the mental picture.
"Don't worry Brooke. We still have my car and you can crash at my house as long as you need. It's not a big deal."Peyton tried to reassure Brooke
She shook her head."It is a big deal Peyt. I let that woman run me out of my house. Who the hell does she think she is trying to ground me? I've never been grounded in my life."she let out a deep breath as they continued to walk.
"So tell me again why I had to pick your sorry ass up early?"asked Rachel as Brooke opened the door to her car and sat in the passengers side.
"Because if you want me to go out with you I need to get ready at your house, not to mention something to wear."she said casually to her new friend.
"And what happened to your clothes?"she asked momentarily taking her eyes off the road to look at Brooke.
"At the moment they are being held hostage, along with my car. My good for nothing mother won't give them back until I come to my senses and beg my lousy cheating jerk of a boyfriend to take me back."she shook her head. Saying it out loud sounded so much more absurd than when she said it in her head. What kind of mother did that?
"Well I don't know him and he may be all those things, but he is one fine piece of ass. I'd say go for it."she smiled with a shrug."Even if it is only to get your stuff back."
"I guess it's a good thing I didn't ask for your advice then."teased Brooke.
"I'm just saying."shrugged Rachel.
"Well don't."insisted Brooke."So where are we going anyways?"with the afternoon she'd had with the bitch that called herself her mother, she was looking forward to a night out getting wasted and not having to think about anything.
"I'm not sure yet. I figure we shouldn't do anything too heavy otherwise we might end up in the same predicament as last night and as much as I don't really mind it I know you do. Besides."she flipped her hair."I should really do that if I wanna talk to Lucas."she smiled.
Brooke let out a heavy sigh."You're still on that? I was hoping you'd be over that by now."let out Brooke honestly.
Rachel frowned and turned to her new friend."Why would you say that?"she asked earnestly.
Brooke shrugged in her seat."I don't know. I just don't think it's a good idea."she answered honestly.
Rachel turned back to the road. She waited a few moments before speaking."Do you have a thing for Nathan's brother Brooke. I mean it's fine if you do. It would explain a lot."
Brooke's head shot to Rachel."I don't have a thing for Lucas. It's just that he's turned out to be a really good friend to me and I don't want to see him get hurt."she muttered a bit uncomfortably.
"And you think I'd hurt him? You know that's a pretty shitty thing to say. You don't even know me Brooke."she let out with a slightly raised voice.
Brooke instantly shook her head."No, that's not what I'm saying. It's just that..."she trailed off not knowing what to say. Rachel was right. What gave her the right to say that Rachel would end up hurting Lucas? She didn't know Rachel well enough to make that assumption. And if she was basing it on what Rachel had done the night before didn't that make her just as bad since she too slept with a random guy?"You know what? You're absolutely right. Go for it. I think you and Lucas would be cute together."she smiled hoping to diffuse to tension in the car.
"Good."smiled Rachel."That's all I wanted to hear."she once again turned to Brooke."I didn't mean to come off as a bitch just now. I just don't want to be stereo typed. I mean yeah I like to have fun and party, but if the right guy came along I could settle down."she finished solemnly.
Brooke nodded. It was amazing how much she and Rachel had in common. She'd been the same way before she met Nathan and settled down. Now here she was without Nathan and reverting to her old self."I know exactly what you mean."whispered Brooke intently.
"I can't believe you found a club that was opened on a Monday."laughed Brooke as she linked her arm through Rachel's and walked through the door.
"Yeah, well this is a college hangout and college kids love to party. They don't care what day of the week it is. I know I won't when I'm in collage."she grinned.
"I can see myself being the same way. Especially if my mother sticks around."Brooke rolled her eyes.
"I kinda want to meet this mother of yours."laughed Rachel."With the way you speak of her she sounds like a real bitch."
"Oh believe me she is. She actually tried to ground me today because she found out that I hadn't spent the night with Nathan."
"What?!"shouted Rachel in disbelief. Mothers normally grounded you if they thought you had been with your boyfriend all night. Or so she thought. Her parents weren't really around either.
"Yeah, she was fine and cheery when she thought I was with him and once I told her I wasn't she totally flipped. Can you believe that? She went on and on about how I broke the rules, mind you I have never had any rules. Long story short she took my car away and now I'm homeless as well. Don't you just feel the love?"she smiled and rolled her eyes in sarcasm.
"Well you could stay with me. I don't mind. My parents are pretty nonexistent."she shrugged.
"Yeah, that's how it used to be with me, until news of my break up hit her ears. I swear she is so worried about Dan Scott not wanting to do business with them as opposed to seeing if I'm okay. I can't stand the woman, but it's cool. Hopefully she'll be gone soon. In the mean time I'll just stay with Peyton, but thanks for the offer."replied Brooke gratefully.
"No biggie. If you and the blonde get sick of each other the offer still stands."
"Thanks."let out Brooke as she and Rachel made it to the bar."I got first round. I may be homeless, but I made damn sure to take my credit cards."laughed Brooke heartedly.
"Okay, so tell me about the wildest night you've had."asked Brooke amused as she took a drink of her Cranberry and Vodka. They'd decided on mixed drinks after more than a few shots. Brooke was feeling good and didn't want the night to end.
"Umm.."thought Rachel."There was this time a friend and I on a whim decided to drive to Vegas because we were bored. We drank all night met a few guys and had a good time. The next morning we woke up in a jail cell. The cops said we were picked up for public intoxication and tried to bribe them to let us go. Apparently we started making out right in front of them. I to this day still can't remember any of that. If it wasn't for one of the asshole cops showing me a picture of it I wouldn't believe it."answered Rachel shaking her head."What about you? What's the wildest night you've had?"
"Honestly?"she asked not really needing an answer."I'd have to say last night."She let out with an eyes roll.She couldn't believe how boring she'd become since she started dating Nathan. Sure she'd go out and drink heavily if she and Nathan were on one of their famous breaks. She'd hook up with a random guy, but then it would be over. There really wasn't anything wild and crazy about it. She simply did it because she knew Nathan was out somewhere screwing some bimbo.
"You can't be serious."exclaimed Rachel."I mean I know I only just met you, but the girl I hung out with last night had to have had some wild times in her life. It just seemed to come out naturally for you."observed Rachel.
"I'm not gonna say that I've never done anything crazy, but I've been with Nathan for four years almost so he was always around. you can only do so many wild things with your boyfriend in the room."explained Brooke."I mean before last night the wildest thing I'd done was hook up with Lucas at a bar. We would have had sex outside in an alley had Nathan not called and interrupted us."
Rachel nodded."Sex in an alley is pretty kinky Brooke. You're no prude."she laughed.
"Yeah, but it's time that the carefree Brooke Davis came out and played, don't you think?"asked Brooke as she quickly downed the rest of her drink and then reached for Rachel's and drained that one as well."I just want to have some fun. I want to forget every bad thing that is happening in my life. I want to drink and go to jail in Vegas. I can do without the whole girl on girl action, but making out with a nice guy is always fun."she jumped up off the stool at the table"I'm going to get a few shots of something, you coming?"smiled Brooke holding out her hand for the red head to take.
Rachel rolled her eyes."Do you even have to ask? I'm always up for a good time."Rachel placed her hand inside Brooke's and allowed the brunette to pull her toward the bar.
It wasn't long before Rachel lost Brooke in the crowed. By this time both girls were pretty drunk, Brooke more so than Rachel. They'd been having a really good time. Cute guys had been flocking to them all night, which was the reason Rachel had lost Brooke. She'd been talking to this really cute guy when Brooke tapped her shoulder and told her she was gonna go dance with an equally hot guy.And now that making out with the cute guy had gotten boring and she wasn't nearly drunk enough to go home with him she was searching for Brooke. It was really late and they did have school in a few hours.
Turning a corner Rachel spotted Brooke with her tongue down some guys throat. She seemed to really be enjoying it, but Rachel knew that come sobriety Brooke was gonna regret it. So she walked over to them and tapped Brooke's shoulder.
Brooke pulled away from the guy and smiled wide, dimples shown in full glory when she saw Rachel standing in front of her."Hey friend."she slurred happily.
"You having fun?"she laughed.
Brooke nodded."You know it sister. This is Devon or Kevin or something." she giggled as the guy didn't seem to really care if she knew his name.
"Well hi guy."she turned back to Brooke."I don't mean to ruin a good thing, but we should really get going Brooke. We have an early morning."explained Rachel.
"Do we have to?"whined Brooke.
Rachel nodded."Afraid so. So say good night to whatever his name is."laughed Rachel as she pulled Brooke to her not giving her the chance for a goodbye.
Once the girls were outside and waiting for a cab Rachel turned to Brooke."You are so wasted."she laughed. She laughed even harder when Brooke stuck out her tongue."Did you have a good time you prude?"
Brooke nodded."The best. Thank you. I've needed a friend like you for so long. I'm glad you moved here."let out Brooke drunkenly as she pulled Rachel into a hug.
Rachel hugged her back ad grunted."I see you're one of those emotional drunks."She laughed as a cab pulled up in front of them."Lets get our drunk asses home Boozy. You're staying with me tonight."smiled Rachel as she playfully shoved Brooke into the awaiting cab.