Chapter 8

Haley squeezed Taylor to her as the car came to a stop in front of the white house she had, five years ago, called home. The little girl had clutched on to her for dear life – as if sensing that Haley had some deep sadness in her soul. Haley stepped out of the car, still carrying Taylor, as Channing came around from the other side. The driver sat silently in front of the wheel.

From the balcony – hidden from everyone's view – sat Nathan – watching them.

"Are you sure you're going to be okay?" Channing asked as he kissed her forehead and Haley nodded – her fake smile plastered on her face.

"Nothing six shots of tequila can't cure…" she joked but it was obvious from Channing's pained expression that he didn't find it funny at all.

"I can stay if you want me too…" he started but Haley shook her head quickly.

"No I need you to take Tay to my parents." On hearing her name the little girl lifted her head and kissed Haley's cheek.

"Mommy?" she asked worried and Haley smiled at her. Nathan sat frozen as the girl spoke and his mind went into overdrive. The girl looked about 5 years old… which meant it wasn't Channing's child. So that only meant one thing…

"Don't worry Tay. Mommy just a bit sad… but you be nice to Teddy and grandma and grandpa. Show them what a good girl you are…" she spoke softly and Taylor nodded as Haley hugged her again before handing her to Channing.

"Take care of my baby girl…" Haley said softly and Channing nodded as leaned forward and kissed her slowly.

"I'll be on the first flight I can get." He assured her and Haley nodded in understanding.

"You'll be here an hour before the funeral. I checked." Her sad voice seemed to disappear into the air and Channing smiled at her as Taylor let her hands travel through his hair.

"I love you babe." He voice mirrored his urgency to let her know he was there as a shoulder to cry on. Haley smiled.

"I love you too… now go…" she faked a laugh before kissing each one quickly and stepping away from the car. Channing climbed in as Taylor waved at Haley before turning her attention upwards. Towards Nathan. She smiled at the strange man – his blue eyes connecting with hers – before she leaned into Channing.

As the car drove off Haley turned towards the house and found a familiar blonde standing on the stairs – watching her.

Haley felt her feet drag to the ground as the sadness and sobs escaped her body. She made her way to the front of the house – having made up her mind about what she was going to do even before she had told Nathan not to follow her. But standing in front of the house – knowing well it would be empty – it seemed so unrealistic and she suddenly didn't know if she could do it. Looking up she locked eyes with a blonde haired boy who smiled sadly down at her. Though he couldn't possibly know her pain she felt some reassurance at his broken smile. She made her way up the steps of the white house and within seconds his arms were tight around her.

As the familiar arms circled around her waist – pulling her into one of his hugs – Haley found the tears she had not been able to shed since the day after she had found out. And as Lucas wrapped his arms around her she finally let the whole sickening situation crash down onto her.

From his place Nathan watched her and his heart broke. He wanted to be the one to be there for her. But as he dried his tears he wondered if that little girl was his…