I hope you guys like this chapter. It's definitely leading to something important in the story.

The Risk

Don't ever give up if you still want to try, don't ever wipe your tears if you still want to cry. Don't ever settle for an answer if you still want to know. Don't ever say you don't love him if you can't let him go."Anonyms

Chapter 6

"That's Marcus Cortez. He's a gynecologist at the hospital. The woman just looove him." Marvin elbowed Nathan with a devilish grin.

Out of the blue, the curious man remembered answering the phone at least twelve times in the past week when the shorter gentleman with a medium build, brown hair and eyes had called to speak to Haley. His best friend had politely excused herself and shuffled off to her bedroom for some privacy.

Haley twisted her head, looking over her shoulder. She had sensed Nathan's stare. She glowed with mystery, giving him the nod. However, Nathan's focus had cut to her chaperone. Marcus's eyes were pleading and never leaving Haley.

Nathan didn't need a yellow brick road to tell which way this was about to go. Although his hands remained relaxed at his sides, his face was tight and his jaw set. Sure, he knew there were other men in Haley's life. She was a total catch, how could they not be after her? Yet, the reality of seeing one of them was unsettling. He never considered there would be a chance of running into one of the bastards when he agreed to come to this stupid ass party.

The journalist watched the story unfold. Marcus ogled Haley with a subtle but primal lust and Nathan's relaxed demeanor was shot to hell. How serious was their relationship? Were they dating? Were they having sex?

"Enjoying yourself?" Brooke asked as she and Bevin joined the men.

"Fantastic. You have a beautiful home." Nathan grinned despite the impromptu grudge and hatred twisting his stomach into knots. Marcus's wanton male greed for Haley was undeniable, for it matched Nathan's own physical appetite for the delicate siren. Ah hell, he was jealous!

Alas, Nathan knew how gravelly he wanted worship and cherish Haley for himself, there ever after couldn't not be. Eventually, another man would fulfill her life. He truly wished her all the happiness in the world he couldn't give to her. So why did he feel like chopping this guy up in tiny little pieces with a Samurai sword and feeding him to a shark?

"Thanks." Brookes smiled harder, her dimples denting her pretty face. "Will you excuse us, Nathan? I need to borrow my husband for a moment. Bevin has graciously volunteered to steer you clear of the old ladies with the cheap perfume and the young ones, that are just cheap."

"I don't need a bodyguard." Nathan confirmed once they were by themselves.

"Oh yes you do." Bevin disagreed. "If I leave you for thirty seconds these man hungry single bimbos are going to be on you like a pack of hyenas on a lion's kill."

"Well, since you put it so eloquently." He grimaced.

"How are you feeling?"

"Better. Ummm ….. So … were you born and raised here?"

"Hell yeah! Skills and I are high school sweethearts. I know it sounds kind of cliché. We got married a month after graduation. He got a scholarship to UNC-Chapel Hill. We both got our degrees there. We lived in Durham for five years." She continued to tell him their life story.

Nathan listened half-heartedly. His visit to North Carolina had been a luxury. He had allowed himself the comfort of Haley's nearness, knowing full well once his energy and well being returned so would his carnal yearning for her. Night after night he lie awake consumed with impure thoughts of her in the bed just down the hall, his penis hard and ultra sensitive. Planning to do nothing about his secret torture, he prayed that the evidence be gone by her waking every morning. He wouldn't surrender to his own needs, not with her. But there wasn't anything holding Marcus back from the ultimate pleasure of Haley. For Christ's sake, he was going to be sicker than he already was!

"Where were you hiding?" Haley said, slither her arm around his narrow middle. Her chocolate dress plunged slightly at the neckline revealing the perfect amount of cleavage and the pink ribbon belt tied around her slim waist, accented her soft curves made the outfit sparkle.

Nathan tried not to go weak at the smell of her enchanting fragrance and the seducing pleasure he was getting as her right breast polished his arm. He was openly upset, his hard-on achingly clear, and his irritation evident.

"In the game room with Jersey and Mouth. How about you, Haley?"

"Rambling to anyone in five feet of me." She giggled. "Having a nice time, Bevin? I can't believe Skills caught the stomach virus that was going around the school!"

"I know! My poor baby is so sick. It getting late. I should be getting home so I can take care of him."

"Nathan, we should probably be going too. I don't want you to wear yourself out. Are you ready to go?"

"Yes. I'm not really the partying type anyway. I'll go get the car, while you ladies get your coats." Haley handed him her keys and the pair of women watched him stalk away.

Once they were alone, Bevin whispered. "Please tell me why you acting all buddy buddy with Marcus and leaving Nathan to fend for himself. There are single women crawling all over this place. Were you trying to make him jealous?"

"Bevin, you know I don't play those games. Marcus was practically stalking me. He's been begging me to start seeing him again for weeks. He took the party as an opportunity to really plead his case. I swear, I went to the bathroom twice and he was waiting outside each time!" She ran her hands through her straightened tresses. "I really didn't want to make a scene, with Nathan here. The guys just doesn't understand the word no. Besides, maybe he's right. It's not like have any other prospects."

"I would feel bad for him, if he didn't act so desperate. He's got a lot to offer a girl. Too bad you aren't the one." Bevin shook her head. " He decides to fall in love with you when the man you really want comes to visit. Damn, he has bad timing. Hales- you aren't feeling guilty about this?"

After Haley finished putting on her coat and Bevin got her wrap, they said their good-byes and went outside to meet Nathan.

"Kinda. I dated him for months, Bevin. I made it clear from the onslaught that I just want to have fun, nothing sexual or serious. We really had a good time together. Do you think I should have given it more? Do you think I lead him on? "

"Oh, honey no. You never slept with him.." She rubbed Haley's hand, hoping to alleviate the sadness in her tone. "You didn't even kiss, not in the romantic sense. You did nothing wrong."

Haley sighed heavily. "A lot of good it's done me. Every single time he's called since we broke up, Nathan's answered the phone. Then Marcus had the nerve to act as if he's my boyfriend, questioning my relationship with Nathan. He threatened to lie and tell Nathan anything to ruin our friendship if I didn't start back dating him. He totally freaked out."

"What? You let him get away with that bullshit?"

"Heck no. I handled him. Let him know he was lucky just to be in my presence." She squared her shoulders confidently before slumping them right back. "Bev, do you think Nathan noticed Marcus was the only one I didn't introduce him to tonight?"

"Are you joking? Girl, yes he noticed! The man isn't blind or stupid. Just tell Nathan about Marcus because right now it looks like your trying to hide something from him. That's so not cool."

"It's not like Nathan and I have something going on either." Haley said defensively, eyeing her Mercedes as it came into view a couple of hundred yards down the street. Her disappointment was evident. This is how Nathan liked their relationship, so there was nothing left to do.

"If you want more from him, make it happen." Bevin scolded with concern. She had watched Nathan watch Haley. Apparently, he cared deeply for her. Why the chose to remain friends when it was obvious they were so much more was mystifying. They were crazy about each other.

"We can't talk about this now. He's going to pull up any second."

"No he won't. Marvin just stopped him, he's showing off his newest motorcycle. Haley, you're dripping in love for that man. After the way I saw you two interact tonight, nothing or no one can convince me it isn't mutual. When are you two going to do something about it?"

Bevin was right. She was ass backwards in love with Nathan Scott since she was teenager. Neither, distance, time, lost or the stubbornness of the man himself could alter her feelings for him. What her friend didn't understand was that some things weren't up for discussion. They had made a pact when they reconciled ….friends for life, nothing more. Somehow, she had to stick to her vow.

"Why did he have to show up on my doorstep? I was doing fine until then. I told myself , I was accepting of the limits place on our relationship." Haley pouted unhappily. "Oh, Bevin." She whispered. "Living with him, having dinner together, curling up on the sofa and watching a movie, being able to take care of him, just having him close has made a major difference in how I view what Nathan and I have. It's not nearly enough. I can no longer settle for a piece of his world. I want to be the center of his universe and vice-versa. Unfortunately, Nathan is pleased with our current state and has made no inclination that he wants to change it. His life is in another galaxy, far, far from me and Tree Hill.

"He wasn't looking content when he was watching you with Marcus a few minutes ago. I say he was feeling downright hostile. He looked like someone was moving in on his woman and he was a second away from kicking some serious butt. Talk to him, find out what's really going on in his head. Maybe he wants the same thing you do now."

"You think?" Haley queried. There was so much Bevin didn't know about them. So much Haley could never explain.

Bevin evidently understood her silent fears. "I just want you to be happy. In my heart, I feel Nathan is the only man who can give you that. He's in your soul. Skills fills me the same way. I'm not good with words, but it's there and I accepted it long ago." Bevin continued. " I know advice is like assholes, there's plenty of them and most of are full of crap ….. Or something like that. I just want you to give it a shot, whether it's painful or not. You deserve it, Haley."

Haley nodded. She suspected Bevin was thinking of her battle, that with motherhood. She and Andre had been unable to conceive. Haley completely understood the longing they felt. The couple remained hopeful that someday they would have a family, a child of their own. Until then, they shared their joy of life with each other and their friends.

"I know I don't always tell you, but thanks for caring." Both women smiled, fingers locked in friendship. Bevin headed for her automobile, waving at Nathan reached them.

Nathan parked the car and walked around to help the lady inside and out of the chilly night. It suited his icy mood. "I'll drive."

Haley watched his demeanor. "Are you sure, Sweetheart? You're not one hundred percent."

"I'm fine." He said, urging her inside the vehicle.

"You look a little tired, Sweetie." The endearment slipped from her lips again before she could think about it. "I kept you out to long. I should made sure we left by nine-thirty."

"Stop worrying, Beautiful." His voice was low and sexy as his fingers twisted a few strands of her luscious golden strands. He wasn't going to give in to his negative emotions. He hated seeing her with another man, but there was nothing he could do about it. He had no say where Haley was concerned. "Your friends were nice. I enjoyed the party."

Haley smiled, lounging back in what she considered comfortable silence. The ride was slow and smooth on the starry night.

They would be left with nothing, if they didn't maintain the balance in their relationship, she thought. They had both worked hard over the years to preserve their precious bond. She had been so happy to put him back in her life, she didn't argue restrictions. She hadn't planned to go beyond their pact. Was it worth the risk? Was she strong enough to live with the outcome. They were so good for each other and so good together. Didn't that mean something? Yet all the hesitation didn't squelch the sweet hope she had tenderly, secretly nourished. Perhaps it was time to come clean.

Like Haley, Nathan was pensive. He knew he was putting way to much energy in trying to decide whether Haley and Marcus were lovers. Rarely would a man continue to date a woman for months, especially someone as incredible as his Beautiful without a little S E X to keep it interesting. In fact, he knew of only one such looser, himself.

Marcus was completely into Haley. That was crystal clear in a crowded room. Yes, she turned him on, but he also hung off her every word and the mule couldn't stop touching her, brushing the tips of her fingers or running a digit down her cheek or cupping her elbow. He was smitten. But had he won her heart and would he make her his? A commitment? Engagement? Marriage in the near future? Was she unsure? Was that their problem?

Nathan swore under his breath as he gripped the steering with so tightly his knuckles were white. She introduced him to everybody but Marcus. He was spiting fire, needing an explanation.

Dude, let it go! In a week, two at the most he would be on his way. Marcus could easily move in to claim her. Nathan grumbled to himself that his presence hadn't been a deterrent. Haley's boyfriend didn't appear intimidated by him in the least. How serious were they? Is that why she didn't introduce them? Was she afraid, Nathan wouldn't approve of him? The whole damn town knew he was staying with him, why make a point of not letting him meet Marcus. Ugh!

As they reached her home, Nathan parked in front of the house instead of the wrap around driveway. "You go ahead in, I'll put the car in the garage.

Haley entered the side door. She cut off the alarm and switched on lights in the front hallway assuming Nathan would soon follow. When she saw him heading down the drive, in the direction of the beach and her private boardwalk, she left her coat and jacket at the foot of the coat rack, then scurried after him. She had to run to catch up with him.

Nathan heard her sexy boots tap against the pavement and waited for her to reach him. "You don't have your coat. It's too cold out here for you."

"A hot cup of tea would hit the spot right now." She leaned into, playfully patting his chest with her palms. "But if on a night like this, you would rather walk on the beach, I'm game."

What could he say to stop her? That he would like to be alone to waddle in his own self-pity, stew with stinging despair over things he couldn't change? He needed time to examine the fierce rage and jealousy ripping him apart?

Who was he trying to kid? Spending time with Haley trumped his hissy fit. It would make for sacred memories, no matter how brief. He could store them away and they could be brought out in the wee hours of the morning when he lay awake, unable to sleep, dreaming of her … all she's said and done. He starved for her womanly essence. His aroused body kept him up long into the midnight, letdown growing with each new day break.

One magical night was the sum of their whole existence as lovers, sixteen hours, twelve minutes and three seconds, give or take a few. Yet the memory was as fresh as if had happened yesterday.

The air was thick with the smell of pine and salt water, the sky bright with lights, the light breeze danced around them. Although, November was actually fall, the coastal area felt wintry.

Haley strolled beside him, confused by his silence.

"How's the Smith situation?"

"Much improved, since our talk. He's following the rules. I know he's still drinking, but he's keep on his own time and remains sober during working hours. I don't approve, but the man has a right to privacy outside the school. Do you think I've been too rough on him?"

"On the contrary, you've been more than fair. Besides, you have the children to consider."

"They are my utmost concern."

He stifled a groan when she wrapped her arm around his bicep, leaning her pretty head against his shoulder. He told himself he didn't want to feel her softness. Told himself he didn't want to be reminded of what he couldn't have … what belonged to Marcus. What he couldn't explain to himself or anyone else is why he wouldn't dare pull away.

They walked in solitude and he waged war against his impulse to petition to make her his alone. She fretted that Bevin was correct and she needed to clear up the Marcus situation.

As the approached the thicket at the end of the wooden planked path, they stopped, facing the vast ocean. "What's in you're head?"

"Hmm?"

"What on you're mind. You're obviously distracted. You're so quiet. Are you in pain?"

"No, just a little tired. But I can't build up strength lying in bed all day and catching up on the best sellers list."

"Don't rush it. The past few weeks have given you some much needed rest. If you weren't here, you would be going non-stop on your book, rather than regaining your strength. Admit it!"

"Probably.'

"Nathan- what is it? Don't you dare say it's nothing. Something is bugging you. I sense it." She made herself continue. "Are you agitated with me because I didn't introduce you to Marcus. I had a very good reason for that."

"It did seem odd." He said carefully.

"It's complicated."

"Then simplify it for me." he said firmly.

"You're not making it easier."

"You've been seeing each other for a while, right?"

"I guess." She stopped, knowing this was the last thing she wanted to discuss with Nathan.

Nathan just stared at hers as if she had grown two heads. "Well how serious is it? Did you neglect to tell me you guys are getting married soon?

"What? No! Why would you think that?"

"Dude is always calling you at home, where you skip off to talk to him like a silly little fourteen year old. I could have stayed here, because you spent most of the evening with him." Nathan said, his fist balled at his sides. He wanted to punch something, Marcus's good looking face. "Was it unwarranted? Should I have intervened? I assumed his company was welcomed."

"Marcus and I date five months, but lately he's more from the relationship than I'm willing to give. We stopped seeing each other right before you came to visit. Tonight he was bothered by the fact that you're staying with me and was acting irrational. I felt it was best that you two not meet."

"Dating? Is that a polite way of saying you two were a couple? Are you still screwing him?" Nathan asked bluntly, loosing control over his emotions. Did she want to be exclusive and Marcus refused? Was she in love with the son-of-a-bitch? He had to know if another man had stolen his place.

"Nathan!

"Just answer the damn question, Haley!"……..

Pamela