Haley shifted awkwardly in her seat. She felt uncomfortable and she was sure it was written all over her face. First of all, it was the dress. It was a classic, floor length gold colored ensemble that complimented her girlish figure and tiny waist right up to the artificial support that had come in the form of padding to give her bust line an additional boost. She had complained the entire time but whining fell on deaf ears when Brooke Scott was dressing you. Despite protests, Haley had sat an hour for make up and another one for the elegant hair updo. She had grumbled something about spaghetti straps always falling from her shoulders so Brooke had had her gown tailored for fuller straps. All that mattered was the wire was securely in place and out of public sight. In the mirror and to all those around, Haley Webb looked gorgeous. But beneath the flawless exterior, Haley James felt ill at ease and slightly out of her league. It was the NBA annual Hall of Fame induction ceremony. Six deserving retired basketball players would receive the ultimate honor in their sport for outstanding accomplishments during a brilliant sports career. Many had been recognized in the preceding years, including one, Daunte Johsnon. Now it was someone else's turn. The night belonged to Dan Scott.
The marvelously decorated table for their party sat front and center to the stage. Just minutes before the affair had begun, Dan's parents, a dapper Royal and lovely Mae Scott had arrived along with their other son, Dan's older brother, Keith. In the center of the table was a beaming Dan, accompanied by the ever stylish and dutiful Deb. She was a breathtaking sight to behold when sober. With blonde curls spiraling, she looked absolutely stunning in a simple, fitted, strapless red number. Next to her sat a blank faced Nathan, followed by his older brother, Lucas. Beside him was Brooke. Long, dark, curled locks fell down her exposed back setting off her creamy skin against the white backless number with the sexy yet still classy plunging neckline. Seated between Haley and Royal was Peyton with her hair pulled back, wearing a simple form fitting, spaghetti strapped black dress. It was a beautiful night and a beautiful table filled with beautiful people.
Ever the investigator, Haley sat back to people watch. The Scott's were obviously well received and respected in the sports world. Royal was a cigar smoking godfather like tycoon. Haley had researched the old man's background extensively. He was known as a shrewd and intimidating businessman with a few skeletons of his own hidden in the closet. But a product of the good ol' boy system had long protected him against public exposure. His wife, Mae, was loving and quiet, a warm and affectionate grandmotherly type. Then there was Keith, the black sheep of the family. Rarely did he make appearances with his family, public or private. The tension between two brothers was tangible but the older one had remained quiet and reserved, though friendly, keeping a steady supply of Whiskey Sours at his ready disposal.
And Dan himself was the world's greatest actor. What was common knowledge behind closed doors at home was a secret to the outside world. Dan Scott oozed with charm, charisma and likeability. He was the life of the party and he knew it and loved it. With Deb beside him, they were the quintessential golden couple. No one knew her secret pain that included depression and addiction. Looking at her perfect appearance, it would be impossible to tell. But if appearances were everything, Nathan's told a different story. Haley studied him like a text book. Undeniably, the man was gorgeous. In a custom made Ralph Lauren tux, he was a sight for sore eyes with his tanned skin, intense blue eyes and dark hair. His face was handsome but at the same time, carried a sadness with it. He looked like he wanted to be anywhere but where he was.
The only real aspect of the group was Lucas and Brooke. They were as beautiful on the inside as they were on the outside. They sat close, always touching or hugging in some way, stealing romantic glances at one another. They were a couple to truly be envied. It was the kind of love people dreamed about, a kind of love Haley certainly had never known. She looked over at Peyton and couldn't help but feel sorry for her. According to Brooke, once upon a time Peyton had known a love like that but a tragic twist of fate had ended it all for her. She was an unusually attractive woman, confident, intelligent and assertive. Her whole life had been dedicated to the Scott family, Nathan in particular. She took pride in her work but she appeared at times rather lonely.
"Ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention once again…" the master of ceremonies spoke.
The event had been going on almost two hours and it was time for the last induction.
"…To present the next NBA Hall of Famer, are two young men, successful in their own right who happen to know best our final inductee. Please give a warm welcome to renowned sports journalist, Lucas Scott and one of the stars of the Boston Celtics, Nathan Scott."
The crowd roared with applause as two brothers, one slower and more cautious than the other, approached the podium.
"In the NBA, in this wonderful organization, Dan Scott spent his 12 year career with the Atlanta Hawks franchise reminding us what hard work, determination, athletic prowess and true greatness really means," Lucas began. "On and off the court he was a true hero, always sportsman like with a passion for this game, a commitment to various charities to benefit his community, an unwavering dedication and devotion for his family and a true and powerful love for the fans. He truly needs no introduction but my brother and I will give him one anyway. Nate…"
Nathan cleared his throat, awkwardly shifting his weight as he spoke in a muffled, forced voice.
"Growing up I used to watch my dad play in the arenas and on TV. I'd see how great he was and all the fans cheering for him and it made me see that one day that's what I wanted to be. I wanted to be exactly like my dad but then I realized I could never follow his footsteps exactly or step in his shoes, that I had to do it on my own. I did and one of my greatest accomplishments was making my old man proud. Now it's another day for pride as I stand here with my brother, Luke, and we get to do something wonderful and well overdue. Tonight we induct our father in the NBA Hall of Fame."
"Nathan and I proudly welcome one of the greatest players ever, our father, Daniel Scott…"
The introduction was met with a thunderous standing ovation. Dan Scott, trademark smirk on his face and crocodile tears in his eyes, stood with his hands in the air, graciously thanking the audience members. Then he shook hands with his father before kissing Mae, Brooke, Peyton and a stunned Haley on the cheek. Saving the best for last, he swept Deb in his arms, whispering sweet nothings in her ear and showering her with kisses all for the sake of the camera. Rushing onstage, he held both his sons tight garnering even more applause and fanfare. Haley could hardly stand it as he began his Oscar winning speech.
"Thank you," he clasped his hands together. "I can never say it enough. Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you. What an honor and a privilege and pleasure to be inducted especially with my fellow inductees into this year's Hall of Fame. I am humbled by you all.
I grew up in a small town called Tree Hill and I grew up with big dreams of basketball glory. Never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined how it would all turn out. There were hard times and it was a lot of hard work but I would not trade it for anything. So many countless great nights on that court after the games were long over and the crowd had gone home, often I would return to an empty floor and just sit. People would say, 'Scott, what the heck are you doing?' What I was doing was counting my many blessing and relishing in the moment. I never wanted those nights to end just like I never want this night to end right now.
With that being said, everyone knows it is impossible to make it this far alone. I have been so incredibly blessed throughout my life and I have so many wonderful people to thank. All my coaches and teammates from my entire career. Everyone associated with the superb organization that is the Atlanta Hawks and the University of North Carolina. The NBA. I'd like to thank the fans, for without your incredible, remarkable support, I would not be here. And finally but most importantly, how can I end this night without mentioning my family. What can I say? To my parents…I give you all the praise for everything you ever did for me and getting me to this point, Mom and Dad. To Keith who is quite possibly the best big brother in the world. My sons, Lucas and Nathan. I could not have asked for better children. Your character and your achievements amaze me every single day and I could not be prouder. My lovely daughter in law, Brooke, a true and rare jewel who makes all our days that much brighter. And finally and please excuse me if I break down, but to a magnificent, outstanding, loving human being who has been my best friend for the past 26 years or so. When you get any kind of honor, especially one as prestigious as this, you have to thank your significant other. For the past 26 years of my life, Deborah Lee Scott has been a steadfast source of support and unconditional love. My dear, I share this, along with my life, with you. You are my light, my everything.
Again, ladies and gentlemen, words cannot express my emotions and gratitude. I love this sport. I love this game. I love you all. Thank you so very much and have a great night."
It was a speech to end all speeches and Haley couldn't help but chuckle as Brooke rolled her eyes during Dan's third ovation. And just like that, the formalities were over and it was on to breaking out the champagne and partying Memphis style. Haley stood alone in a corner keeping a watchful eye on the partygoers. Dan and Deb happily mingled amongst the mass of well wishers as Lucas and Brooke danced the night away in each other's arms.
"Tell me," a voice spoke behind her. "Have you ever heard one man so good at kissing his own ass?"
Haley turned to see Keith Scott had joined her.
"Mr. Scott…"
"Please, call me Keith."
"Keith, um, okay. It was uh, certainly a different version of Dan than I'm used to. But it was a big night. I suppose he earned it."
Keith smirked, taking another drink.
"On the court, yeah. Off? Whatever. Don't get me started."
"I take it you two don't get along. I guess he isn't the easiest person to get along with all the time."
"Are you kidding? Look, you don't have to be nice because I'm his brother. Dan is an ass, plain and simple. The guy was born an ass. And as far as the honor and respect, he doesn't deserve any of it, just like he doesn't deserve Deb and those boys."
The bitterness etched on Keith Scott's face was plain for anyone to see. And apparently Dan had seen it from across the room. He quickly made his way over to them.
"Well, well," he smirked. "Enjoying yourself, Miss Webb?"
Haley nodded.
"It's uh, quite the event. I guess congratulations are in order."
"Yes and I'm sure that sentiment comes from the bottom of your heart."
"Excuse me?"
"How fitting I find you hanging out in the corner with Boozy the alcoholic brother."
Haley made a face. So much for that heartwarming speech she had just heard talking about the best big brother in the world.
"Um, Mr. Scott…"
"Keith, you are needed elsewhere. Please follow me, if you can do so without stumbling all over the place. Dad would like a word with you. Besides, we wouldn't want you spilling any juicy family secrets, now would we? Miss Webb here is a like a Hoover when it comes to Scott family dirt."
"Mr. Scott…"
"Never mind him, kid," Keith warned. "Trust me, it's not worth the argument. Haley, it was very nice meeting you."
"Likewise," she answered politely before Dan had already dragged him off.
Haley was left alone again but she noticed Peyton's eyes upon her. The loneliness didn't last long.
"Hey," he said.
She turned and gave a nervous smile.
"Hey."
He had loosened his tie, the jacket was gone and the unbuttoned upper portion of his shirt was rumpled.
"Had enough of this suck fest yet?" he inquired.
"That's an interesting way of putting it, Nathan. It's been a pretty fun night, you could say, pretty much an affair to remember."
He rolled his eyes.
"Stomaching my dad's performance? I hardly call that fun. Like I said, it's a suck fest and it is anytime we get to hear about what a great man he is."
Haley shrugged her shoulders.
"I'm not one to point fingers but uh, that was a sweet little introduction you and Lucas gave him."
Nathan laughed in spite of himself.
"Yeah, written by His Truly."
"What? You mean Dan wrote all those things?"
"Who else? Luke and I just read them off a teleprompter."
"Unbelievable," she shook her head. "I mean, I'm surprised but not really, you know?"
"Yeah. I hate it," he drank a Manhattan.
"Then why'd you do it?"
Nathan smirked.
"That's why I like you."
"Why?" she felt her face get all hot and red.
"Because you don't bullshit. You call it as you see it. You tell it like it is."
"Normally so do you."
"It's complicated."
"What's so complicated about it?"
"It's hard to explain. It's about family loyalty and public image. My dad is far from perfect and I am too. We may have our private beef or whatever but when it comes down to it and we're out here on display like this, it's a different story."
It was a different Nathan. It was a comment she expected to come out of Lucas' mouth. Lucas obviously disagreed with his father and some of the Scott ways but loyalty and allegiance, especially public was everything to him. Haley had pegged Nathan different but he had confirmed they were all in the same.
"Do you always do everything your father tells you to do?"
He grinned.
"It's not like that."
"Then what is it like?"
"You wouldn't understand."
"Try me," she prodded.
Nathan shook his head.
"Maybe another time. I've had enough of this crap tonight," he said as he finished his drink. "Can I get you something?"
Haley giggled, declining.
"Oh no. Remember last time? I think I'll stick to bottled water."
"At least you had fun."
"I did but uh…no thanks."
"I promise we'll find you something without SoCo in it. How about one of those Appletini things? I hear they're supposed to be good."
"You tried one?"
"Hell no. That's a girly drink."
"Well then maybe I'll be able to handle it," she replied as Nathan ordered another Manhattan and one Appletini from the open bar.
Together they walked to a private corner of the room.
"How is it?" he asked her after a few sips.
"It's good but one is definitely my limit tonight, thank you very much."
"I didn't think you would come," he said quietly, looking away.
"Why not?"
"I don't know. I mean, it's not one of your duties or anything and who the hell would blame you if you didn't want to show up?"
"I know it's for your dad and true we aren't best of friends but I thought it was the right thing to do, the polite thing."
"You always do the right thing?"
"I try," she took another careful sip.
"Well, I'm glad you came, Haley."
"Me, me too. It's nice but uh…"
"But what?"
"Nothing. I mean, it's, well, why, why are you, would you be glad I came?"
"I don't know. I guess I like hanging around you, talking to you. It's cool. I don't get that a lot with people. Usually I'm so busy with ball. Then you meet people and it's hard to know what their intentions are. It's like the majority of people aren't even real anymore and that sucks. So it's nice to finally meet someone who is cool and nice, somebody I can talk to that doesn't judge me and doesn't expect anything in return."
"Oh," Haley could only respond, feeling like a heel.
"Anyway, I know I haven't said it and yeah sometimes I don't exactly word things the right way but I wanted to tell you how nice you look tonight…because you do."
"Thanks. Um, wow, thank you. You, you too, look nice, I mean."
"So I was thinking…"
"Nathan, there you are, son," Royal Scott interrupted. "We've been looking all over for you."
"Yeah. Look, Grandpa, you remember my nurse, Haley Webb."
"We've met," he answered, not bothering to turn around and acknowledge Haley's presence. "No use in you hiding out in the corner all night, boy. There are some important people here. You need your face out there and your mama and daddy are looking for you."
"Yeah…"
He turned to Haley who gave him a smile and a nod.
"Um, go ahead. I'll catch up with you later."
Nathan nodded back.
"Okay. Later."
And then they were gone. Haley closed her eyes, feeling like her heart was about to jump right out of her chest. When she opened them again, there were another pair of eyes still focused keenly on her. Haley could not escape the steely and inquisitive state of Peyton Sawyer.