Hello, all! I'm back with another chapter. I know it took a little longer than expected, but still not nearly as bad as it could have been, right? Anyway, I know you're all anxious to see what happens next, so I'll hurry up and get on with the shout outs.
happywtmylife: Hi! Wow, thank you so much for the incredible review. I loved it every second of reading it. :) Haha, well congratulations, you were the first to leave a review. You should feel very accomplished. :) Glad you liked the length. My other stories never had very long chapters, but for some reason I get on a roll with this one and it's hard to make myself stop. lol. I guess that's good for you guys though, huh? Ah, I know what you mean. I do that all the time when I'm reading stories, play the song that's in there. :) Well, it's understandable that you're scared about the end. To tell you the truth, I kind of am too. I'm not even sure what's going to happen yet. I know, crazy right? Haha. AW... thank you so much. I'm so glad I can make you smile that much, it's exactly what I'm trying to do when I write. :D And I'm happy you like me responding to reviews. Sometimes I get the feeling I'm going on and on when people really just want to read the story, so I'm glad you enjoy shout outs. :) Haha, I know what you mean. People must think I'm retarded sometimes when I just start talking and can't stop. It's like an incurable disease. But it's kind of what helps me write this story, so I guess I shouldn't complain that much, right? I hope you find the courage to write because it seems like you're a lot like me, which means you would be totally amazing at it. lol. Just kidding. I understand, I was so worried about trying to actually write something and post it for other people to read. And I know it's hard to actually know where to begin and how to develop a story once you have the idea, but I hope you decide to try it. I will definitely be one of your biggest supporters. :) And you can definitely feel free to share ideas with me anytime. I'd love to help any way I can. :D Just let me know what I can do when the timing's good for you. Hmm... yes I get what you're saying. I know the fighting gets frustrated, but trust me when I say you'll start to see more and more cute moments in between the fighting, and fairly soon. :) I don't know if smushiness is a word, but I love it! Haha, I'm totally gonna start using it now. :) Ahhh, what we all wouldn't give for a naley romance. It's becoming one of the classics... lol. I probably shouldn't be fantasizing when I have an amazing fiancé though, should I? Guess my days of wishing for a Nathan are over. sighs I'll definitely miss them. lol. Just kidding, in case you haven't noticed, I'm kind of madly in love with the guy I'm going to marry. :) Aw... I'm seriously on cloud nine right now. You are just too sweet. Lol, yeah, guess I just wasn't thinking clearly. It would be very bad to leave my fiancé. Bad Ashley! Haha, but we can't still be friends, right:) YAY! YAY! YAY! I get to be your favorite! You have no idea how happy that makes me. :D :D Thank you so much for the insanely long review!!! It was so much fun to read. Haha yes, the food at my wedding will be the best and most important part. Well, except me and my groom of course. We're kind of important. lol. Thanks for wishing us well! Love you!
Freder-cheddar: Well, I'm glad you found my story again. It's so cool reconnecting with old readers. :) I'm so happy you're loving the story and that I could make your day by re-posting. :) lol. Thanks for taking time to review and for the nice words. :)
OTHbabe23: What's up, babe? I'm glad you decided to review again. :) Well, I'm glad you decided it was worth the wait. Again, sorry about the wait. grins sheepishly I swear I'm trying to do better. It's all the stupid wedding plans, they just never end! Lol. Just kidding. Haha, glad you like Nathan's protectiveness. And yes, even if he won't admit it to himself, we all know it goes deeper than pity. I mean, hello, it's Nathan and Haley, right:) It makes me happy that you liked their conversation. I was all excited to start writing it and I kind of lost momentum, but I'm glad you think it turned out OK anyway. Lol, yes. I've never been a big fan of clowns either. Especially once I saw IT. I know it wasn't even THAT scary, but I saw it when I was young and it scarred me for life. lol. I agree, the face paint and big feet are a little much. Yes, I don't even know where I came up with the fear for pom-poms. I was searching for inspiration in my old high school yearbooks and I saw the cheerleaders and it was like BAM!! Lightbulb. lol. Yeah, I'd have loved to see Brooke and Peyton push him into the pom-poms, wouldn't you? It may be kind of weird, but I needed a reason for him to be scared of them, so there it is. :) Haha, I get what you mean about the 3 little words. I figured I should throw you guys for a loop. I'm glad you think it was a good twist because I think I probably pissed off a lot of other people with it. But oh well, as long as you still love me. :) I agree, that song is like my favorite that she sang on the show. I went and downloaded it immediately and haven't stopped listening to it since. Well, not literally, but you know what I mean. lol. Haha, get ready for more trashed Nathan and more naley goodness. ;) Now, you're just dying to read, right? Am I reading your mind or what? lol. A million Xs and Os for leaving another fantastic review. Love yas!
HJS-NS-23: Hey! Thanks so much for reviewing for another chapter. Thanks so much for your opinion on the different POVs. I know some people probably don't care for it, but I've always wanted to try it. Thanks for reassuring me. :) And yes, you're right. Even though it's not uncommon for Nathan to get really drunk, this time it was mostly because he was upset over the H word. I'm glad you're excited for the update. Hope it doesn't disappoint. Thanks again!
Caitidid: I'm glad you're welcoming me back with open arms. :) Thanks for being so understanding. :) I'm glad you like the whole hot/cold thing. I guess it gets a little monotonous sometimes, but I can't seem to stop it. lol. And I'm glad you think drunk Nathan is entertaining because there's more of that in the next few chapters. :) Haha, well I'm glad you don't think they're going to kill each other. I guess you're about to find out what happens in the hotel room... was that mysterious enough for you? lol.
lamiss12: Hi! Thank you so much for the enthusiastic review. :D Haha, I know what you mean about getting in those moods where you like everything. Honestly, it happens to me too and sometimes I even scare myself I'm so happy. But I'm glad to know it happens to other people too. Maybe I'm not crazy. Or maybe we're just both crazy. What do you think? lol. Hmm... well maybe your prediction about them sharing a bed will come true... maybe it won't. I bet you're anxious to find out. But instead you have to sit here and read more of my crap. Guess you're just unlucky like that, huh? lol. Just kidding. Wow, Paris. I wish I could be there. I can't believe there were no buses or trains working. I'm sure it's back to normal by now, right? Aw, thank you so much sweetie. I'm glad you're addicted. You know, I think it's unhealthy when a person can't find something to be addicted to. Weird, I know, but I have an unhealthy habit of getting addicted to everything. Wow, that probably made me sound like a crack whore, didn't it? Totally not how I meant it. lol. Not that I judge. I have plenty of friends who light up. Haha, no, your questions don't annoy me. Actually, they show me how interested you are, which is a good thing. :) Um, not sure when exactly they will find out about her illness, but it won't be for a while. Sometime after they get to Tree Hill. And I don't have an exact number for how many chapters I'll write, but I don't think I'm even halfway done, so a lot. lol. Anyway, I'm so glad you decided to reply. It made my day. Love you!
xxlovin-laffertyxx: Thanks as always for taking the time to leave some kind words. I'm so glad you're enjoying my story and that you liked the last chapter. And you're welcome for updating. It's the least I can do. :)
naley-hathenfan: LMAO!!! I was cracking up when I read your review. Maybe I should go wash the mascara lines off my face too. lol. You seriously don't understand how much better that made my crappy week. Haha, don't worry. I don't think you're crazy at least. You're right, though. Your parents just might think you're a little insane. They're probably like, 'How funny can a computer be? Maybe she's smoking something.' Isn't that always a parent's first response these days. Oh, how times have changed. lol. Well, I'm glad you enjoyed drunk Nathan. He's actually really fun to write, so I keep trying to think of more excuses to put him back in there. lol. Yes, easy mistake to make thinking the cab driver's your dad, right? Wrong. He's just a moron. But a hot, loveable one. lol. Anyway, thanks for the laughs!
naley19: Hi! Thank you for reviewing and giving me your awesome opinion. :D I'm so glad you liked the chapter and that you're psyched for more naley cause that's what you're about to get. :) I hope you like it. Thanks again!
inzie23: Wow, I'm really glad you did find my story and I'm completely overwhelmed by your review. It made me feel so good about my story. :) Thanks for caring and congratulating me on my engagement. Man, I just can't shut up about it, can I? lol. Yes, I really do appreciate all of my reviews. Just a few words can make a much bigger difference that people realize. Actually, I don't think I've ready any Meg Cabot. Is she the one who wrote Princess Diaries? That's probably where I've heard her name before. Glad you like their love/hate relationship and a drunk Nathan because both will be key elements in this story. :) Thanks again for all the encouragement and the amazing feedback. I hope you'll keep reading and I'd love to hear from you again. :D
coupling-all-the-time: Haha, I'm so glad you thought the chapter was really funny. I agree, it's fun to read about drunk Nathan, but not so fun to take care of him. Not that I would know. Unfortunately, I've never met that beautiful man. lol. Hm, I'm not sure if he gets sober in this one or not, I can't remember. But the shit will hit the fan sooner or later. lol. Thanks for reviewing!
alwaysandforever08: Hi, babe! Thanks for taking time to review. :) I'm so glad you loved that last chapter and I hope you'll love this one even more. :D Sorry I kept you waiting for so long, but I hope you still love me. :)
Chapter 10:
Nathan's POV
We walk for a good while longer and I'm still fuming with anger. How could she tell me she hates me? After everything she's done to me?! That little bitch. Well, I hate her too. But I know I don't. Damn it! Why does she fucking hate me? And why the hell is it making me this upset?! Oh, I could kill her.
We're walking past a bar when I notice the sign on the front. I stop and read over it.
Free Karaoke Contest
Winner Receives $500 cash
I turn to her. We need money and even if it means having to talk to the whore, I'll at least see if she's willing to try. So, I ask as calmly as I can, "Can you sing?"
She looks at me, dazed and says, "What?" And I start to get annoyed. She can't even listen to me now? Screw her.
"Can you sing?" I repeat.
She nods and I find myself grateful she doesn't try to talk to me. If she knows what's good for her, she'll give me time to calm down before she apologizes. It's going to take a hell of a lot more than an apology for me to forgive her though. She's gonna have to beg and grovel and do whatever I want. 'Yeah, just think, you'll have her all alone in a motel room for the night and she'll give you whatever you want...' Damn it! There goes that voice again. It never stops.
I take her arm and try to pull her into the bar, but she holds back. I resist the urge to slap her. Does she never trust me? I point to the sign and she nods. I take her inside and release her arm. I point her over to the corner where they're doing the karaoke and leave her to traipse my way over to the bar. If she's gonna be a bitch, she can earn us our money. And if she can't sing to save her own ass, then we're out of luck.
I flash my fake ID and order a drink. No one ever said I couldn't have a little fun. From now on, all the responsibility is hers. I can totally shit-faced and there's not a damn thing she can do about it because she knows, at least she better fucking know, that she can not afford to screw up right now. I scan the room, looking for her and find her talking to the karaoke guy. That's funny. I almost feel... jealous. I quickly shake it off. I am not jealous. She can go nail every guy in this bar and I wouldn't get jealous. I will not give in. I won't forgive her. No matter how hot she looks leaning over the little table in the corner.
And suddenly, I'm thinking about her bent over that table with a lot less clothes and me behind her... damn it! She will not affect me! I will not let her get to me. 'She already has,' and there's that voice again. Stupid conscience. I never thought I had one until I met Haley. I didn't believe in karma either. Really, why would anything want to come back to bite this beautiful ass? Well, I guess I can understand why they would... but out of revenge? No.
I can't stop myself from glancing over at Haley again as I order another drink and she's talking to that damn karaoke guy again. What does he have that I don't?! I tell myself to stop thinking about it and smirk as the perfect distraction sits on the stool next to mine and turns to me. I quickly check her out. Nice ass. Great rack. I could definitely go for a little action right now. I look into her eyes. "What's your name, beautiful?"
"Buy me a drink, then we'll talk."
I smirk. Always did love a challenge. "Well, I would, but I don't think I have enough money."
She laughs and touches my arm. "Not very many guys would admit that." I can practically see Haley rolling her eyes and going off on me about picking up brainless blonde sluts like this in bars while she's busting her ass trying to get us money. Not to mention I'm wasting what cash we do have buying drinks. Shit! Why does it seem that everything I do brings thoughts of Haley?
Well, I don't need her logic right now, so I root around in my pockets and come up with a few crumpled bills. What the hell? Might as well buy this girl a drink. I slap it down on the counter and motion for her to order. She smiles and turns to the counter as I look around at the stage. Haley's leaning up against the wall next to it. I look at the person singing now and they don't look so good. Before they get halfway through the song, they faint. I laugh.
Kaitlyn turns to me, wanting to know what's so funny. I point to the stage, where a big guy is dragging off the woman who fainted. She laughs along with me, then leans in to whisper in my ear. "So, are you here with anyone?"
I turn to her as the next person takes the stage and smirk. "Would it matter?"
She looks me up and down. "Guess not."
I nod and down the rest of my beer. I turn to the bartender. It's a guy. Why couldn't I have noticed this before? Maybe he's gay. I decide I shouldn't bet on it and instead just lean forward slightly so he can hear me, but no one else can. Except maybe Kaitlyn. But she already knows I'm broke. "Hey! You think you could front me another beer?" I ask.
He raises an eyebrow at me. "Try again, buddy. I'm straight."
I roll my eyes. "Never said you weren't. But I'd really like a beer."
He glares at me. "Then you'll have to pay, just like the rest of them." He gestures toward all the other losers at the bar.
I scoff and he turns back to me. "Look, buddy, I have a friend who's entering the karaoke contest, she's next, and I can guarantee she's going to win. So, I'll pay for it then."
"How do you know she's going to win?"
I smirk. "Look at her yourself and see." I point over to Haley, glad she's wearing a somewhat slutty outfit. It really does show off her perfect figure. The guy nods, impressed. I address him again. "Even if she can't sing, I think she can work the crowd in a different way if you know what I mean."
The bartender looks like he's caving. He turns back to me. "If you can get me a dance with her on my break."
Yes! I knew it would work. "No problem."
He hands me the beer and I start gulping it down. It's halfway gone by the time I set it back down. I smile at Kaitlyn and she smiles back. For some strange reason, I can't think of anything to say to her. 'What the hell?!' I think. I'm Nathan Scott and I am definitely a player. But for some reason, I'm drawing a blank. I shrug to myself. Oh well, I don't think she's going anywhere. She's practically in my lap by now and she keeps throwing these lustful glances my way.
Deciding it can't hurt, I make out with her for a minute, but pull away as the guy who was singing finishes. She looks confused and I smile at her apologetically. "Sorry, I think my friend's next." She nods and settles completely into my lap.
They announce who's going on next and it's Haley. I twist my head quickly to see her looking at me as she walks toward the stage. I quickly refocus my gaze on Kaitlyn, but can't help looking back at her a few seconds later as she mounts the steps and stands in the center just behind the microphone. I can tell she's getting uncomfortable with all the attention and I know we need this money. So, when her eyes find me again, I give her a hesitant nod. What else can I do?
She keeps her eyes on mine as she starts singing.
I love the time and in between
The calm inside me
In the space where I can breathe
I believe there is a
Distance I have wandered
To touch upon the years of
Reaching out and reaching in
Holding out holding in
Damn! And I thought I was bluffing when I said we'd win. Turns out the girl can actually sing. Hell, she's probably one of the best singers I've ever heard. But it doesn't mean I'll forgive her.
I can't help staring at her though. Damn her! She's drawing me in again.
I believe
This is heaven to no one else but me
And I'll defend it long as I can be
Left here to linger in silence
If I choose to
Would you try to understand
No! I will not let her do this! But I already am. Because I'm staring at her and it's like she's put me in some kind of trance. And I'm thinking how insane it is that a girl that small could have such power over me.
I know this love is passing time
Passing through like liquid
I am drunk in my desire...
But I love the way you smile at me
I love the way your hands reach out and hold me near...
I believe...
She looks over at me. Shit! She caught me staring at her again. And then I realize that I have this dumbass smile on my face and she probably saw it. Double shit!
I believe
This is heaven to no one else but me
And I'll defend it long as
I can be left here to linger in silence
If I choose to
Would you try to understand
I look around. People are really getting in to the music. Some of them are even swaying and stuff.
And then, I hear something I wish I hadn't. Someone is whistling. Someone is fucking whistling. I see Haley smiling as she hears it too. Damn it! I'm supposed to be the one that puts that smile on her face.
Oh the quiet child awaits the day when she can break free
The mold that clings like desperation
Mother can't you see I've got
To live my life the way I feel is right for me
Might not be right for you but it's right for me...
I believe...
It's my game. I make her smile just so I can piss her off the next second. At least that's what I tell myself. But sometimes, I get caught up in the game and forget I'm even playing. I think about what I just thought. What the hell?! That makes no sense.
So, I order another beer and drink that one too. I've lost count of how many I've had. And how many free ones he's slipped me. Maybe he'll forget and I won't have to let him dance with Haley. For fuck's sake! I've never even danced with her. I don't want some bartender groping her.
And then, I realize what I'm thinking. And I realize I sound suspiciously jealous. So, I order another beer. I'm never jealous.
I believe
This is heaven to no one else but me
And I'll defend it long as
I can be left here to linger in silence
If I choose to
Would you try to understand it
I look around for Kaitlyn, but then remember she left a second ago. But she was coming back. At least, I think that's what she said. I try to remember what she told me, but everything's gone fuzzy. Maybe she had to take a piss.
I look up at the girl on stage singing. She's really hot. And then I realize, I know her from somewhere. Oh yeah! That's Haley. Wow. And why haven't I taken advantage of her yet? Maybe she's a virgin. Yeah, that's gotta be it. It's the only reason someone would reject me, right?
Than, Kaitlyn's sliding back onto the stool next to mine. I hear the pretty music playing. "Let's dance," I get up and try to pull her to her feet. I start swaying, but it's not intentional. Laughing, I sit down. Guess I'm pretty trashed. It's not a bad feeling really.
I would like to linger here in silence
If I choose to
Would you understand it
Would you try to understand...
And then, it goes silent. I look around. Who stopped the music? I look up on-stage and smile. There's Haley! But before I can go to her, she runs off. I frown. I'll never be able to find her now. I pull Kaitlyn to her feet. "Come on," I say, dragging her off in what I think is the right direction.
"Nathan," she hisses. "Lower your voice."
"Why?" I whisper. "Are we in trouble?"
She smirks. "No, you were shouting."
"Oh," I nod. That makes sense.
She looks confused. "Where are we going?"
"Haley," I say.
"What?" she has to shout as the next song comes blasting from the speakers. It's rock.
"Turn the music down!" I scream. No one listens.
Kaitlyn tugs on my arm. "Nathan, shut up!"
"Who's Nathan?" I slur.
She sighs. "OK, focus. What are we doing?"
I think about it for a minute. What are we doing? Oh yeah. "We find Haley," I grin, proud of myself for remembering. But I look at Kaitlyn and she doesn't look so happy.
I frown. Why is the world such a sad place? I reach over and try to pull up the corners of her mouth. "Smile," I say cheerfully.
She groans. "I've managed to let you get completely trashed. Now, who's Haley? I'm guessing she'll need some help getting you home."
I scratch my head. "Home? We're not home. Tree Hill isn't here. It's there," I point in what I think is the right direction.
She blows out an exasperated breath. I frown. She's no fun. So, I think it's perfectly logical to start calling out for Haley since I can't seem to find her. "Haley! Haley!" I shout.
Caitlyn claps a hand over my mouth. "Shut the fuck up!" she says. A few seconds later, she removes her hand. I start to say something, but she shoots me a withering glance.
And then, karaoke guy comes on stage. Wasn't I pissed at him for some reason? But I can't remember why I hate him. Oh well. I smile. No need to hate him now. He starts to talk, so I put a finger over Kaitlyn's mouth. "Shhhh," I whisper.
She rolls her eyes and sticks up her middle finger. I frown. Some people are just so rude. I turn my attention back to the stage. "OK, well, that was the last of our karaoke contestants. And now, it's time to announce the winner of $500. And the winner is... Haley James!"
And then, people are clapping and whistling. I start. He just said Haley's name. We won. I grab Kaitlyn and pick her up and spin her around. "We won!" I yell. But then, I feel dizzy and I have to put her down. I start to fall, but she stops me. I see Haley coming off the stage and am determined that she won't get away this time.
I make my way over to where she's standing. I come up and hug her from behind. "You won," I say in her ear.
She turns around and slaps me. Geez! Why is everyone so upset with me tonight? "Jackass! You scared me," she shouts. We get more than a couple stares.
Who does this girl think she is? I was just trying to congratulate her! So, I try to tell her that. "Well, excuse me," I say. "I just congratulate want to you." Wait a minute, it sounded right in my head...
"What?" she says.
I try again. "You want congratulate..." No, it still doesn't sound right. I think really hard, but nothing comes. Oh well, guess it wasn't important.
She sighs. "Never mind. Let's get back to the motel."
I instantly brighten. Motels are fun! "Motel? We bring Kaitlyn...," I can't really remember who she is, so I say her name again, "Kaitlyn." Nothing comes to mind. But I remember there was a Kaitlyn.
Suddenly, Haley looks mad. Great, what did I do now? "Who the hell is Kaitlyn?!" she asks.
I repeat her question to myself. "Who the hell is Kaitlyn?" I squint at her. She looks familiar. "Who the hell are you?"
I stumble into this mystery girl and drape my arm over her shoulder to steady myself. Whoa, now I feel a little unsteady on my feet.
I close one eye and then open it and close the other as though maybe it'll help me remember who I'm talking to. "I don't... we met think."
"Yeah, whatever," she blows out. And I feel hurt. Why is she blowing this off? She wraps her arm around my waist and tries to guide me in a different direction.
I still can't figure out who she is. "Don't think we yet met."
"Nathan, just shut the fuck up!" she yells. I'm slightly taken aback. There's no need for that kind of language. I thought we were just having a friendly conversation.
Then, there's a blonde girl on my other side. I think I recognize her too. Oh, I know, it's, "Katie!" I call out her name cheerfully as I remember it and put my other arm around her shoulder to balance myself.
"It's Kaitlyn," she says and she too, sounds annoyed. Why is everyone getting annoyed of me? I did nothing to them..
I roll my eyes. That's what I said. So, I go, "Duh."
She leans over me to talk to the girl on my other side. "Need some help?" Help with what? I wonder.
Brunette girl nods. "Yeah, thanks. He's not in the best shape right now." Who isn't? Who's this guy they're talking about?
I turn back to blonde girl. She rolls her eyes. "I noticed."
Suddenly, we're outside and brunette girl sits down with me. I lay my head on her shoulder and close my eyes. I can faintly hear her and the blonde talking to each other, but I can't make out what they're saying. Everything has gone blurry. I feel someone nudging me and going, "Nathan, wake up!"
I look up. "Huh? What?" I look at the girl sitting next to me. It's Haley! "Haley!" I yell, kissing her. She kisses me back and I just relax and enjoy it. The ladies always did love me. Then blonde girl says something and Haley turns away from me.
She looks at blonde girl. "Thanks," she says, smiling at her. Then, she tries to help me up. I have to admit, it's getting kind of hard to stand. So blonde girl comes over and helps her and suddenly, I'm being pushed into a cab. Haley gets in after me. Yay! A friend!
The driver of the car turns to look at us. It's Dad! Fathers always pick up their drunk sons. "Hey, Dad! Thanks for coming get us!" I say.
I hear Haley saying, "Nathan." I turn to look at her expectantly. She shushes me.
The driver laughs about something. I didn't think anything funny was said, but maybe I'm wrong. "It's OK. I've seen worse." Worse? Worse than what?
But I don't have time to think about it because I suddenly remember the club and that girl's voice singing. I decide we should have a sing-a-long. So, I rack my brains trying to think of a song. Ooh, I've got one! So, I start singing, "R-E-S-P-E-C-T. Find out what it means to meeeeeee."
Haley groans and puts her head in her hands. Uh oh. Maybe that was the wrong song. I look out the window. It's dark. I wonder where we're going. Maybe we're going to ride the horses! I always wanted to go horseback riding at night. It sounded so dark and mysterious. I decide to ask Haley. I tap her on the head. "Haley-bo-baley. Where we going? I wanna ride the horsees."
She looks up and glares at me. She starts to say something. "Nathan..."
But she doesn't get to finish. I feel it coming, but before I can stop it, the vomit spews from my mouth. Fuck. Now, look what I've done.
What if they get mad at me again? I look over at Haley. She looks mortified. I look up at Dad. He seems not to have noticed yet. That's strange. Well, it is only in the backseat. I widen my eyes at Haley and lean over to whisper conspiratorially in her ear. "What do we do now?"
She slaps a hand over my mouth and whispers in my ear. "First, I distract him. Second, you shut the hell up."
I pull back as though I've been slapped. "Hey now! I don't appreciate being spoken to like that!"
She rolls her eyes. "So, he can produce a full sentence."
I look at her confused. "Who can?"
She turns away and starts chatting to daddy dearest. Since when was she all buddy buddy with my father? Quite frankly, I don't understand why anyone would be. He's kind of an asshole. If I'm being honest, we kind of have that in common. No wonder people keep getting pissed at me. I tap Haley's shoulder. She turns to me. "Yes, Nathan?"
"Why do I keep making everyone mad?"
One of her eyebrows raises up almost to her hairline. I stare at it, fascinated, completely missing what she's saying. She sighs and snaps a finger in front of my face. "Nathan, we're almost to the motel. You think you can walk to our room with me?"
I open my eyes really, really wide. "You're my room mate?" She turns away from me, exasperated. I pull out my cell phone. Tim has to hear about this.
She turns back to me. "What are you doing?"
I don't say anything and she snatches the phone away from me. "Hey, give it back!" I say, reaching for it. But my aim's slightly off and I end up punching her cheekbone. I gasp. "I'm so sorry!" I say, leaning over to kiss her cheek, but it would seem my sense of direction is once again off as I end up kissing the air above her head.
She's holding her cheek and she looks pissed off, but she mumbles something about it being OK.
The car stops and Dad turns around and smiles at us. "You kids have fun now."
Haley reaches over to hand him money. Why the hell is she giving my dad money? I grab her hand to stop her. "What are you doing, Haley? Don't need to give my dad money."
She snatches her hand away from me. She has this angry look in her eyes. She hands the money to him and hisses at me, "That's not your father, Nathan."
I look up at the man in the driver's seat. Oooooohhhh... that would explain a few things. Before I have time to think about it anymore, I feel myself being jerked out of the car. When I'm standing, Haley shouts, "Thanks, mister!" I'm standing behind her and I check out her ass. Niiiiiice. And she got us a motel room... I really am a ladies' man.
Then, I remember what I did in the car. "Uh...Haley," I say. She turns to look at me. "Should we clean up the mess in the bac..."
She cuts me off by slamming the door. "Shut up!" she hisses.
That's just great. What did I do now? "I just thought..." I start.
But she's not listening. I can hear the driver yelling behind us. "Hey, kids! Get back here and clean up this shit right now!"
He continues shouting obscenities. What is it with people and foul language tonight? "Can you maybe walk a little faster?" Haley hisses.
I stare at her. "What?! We're already running." And I think we are. It feels like it. But she gives me this look that says I'm incredibly stupid. Apparently, we're not.
She drags me into the main building. I look around as she goes up to the registration place. Wow! This place is a dump. Couldn't she afford somewhere a little nicer? I mean, I'm one fine piece of ass, she can at least pay for somewhere more expensive.
I can see her arguing with the guy at the counter. Finally, she huffs her way back over to me. Damn, is it just me or is this girl always in a bad mood? She grabs my hand. Ah-ha! She wants me. "Come on," she growls, leading me out of the building and to the smaller, even dumpier looking building next to it.
We go inside. I look around. Sure is a fixer-upper. "They could at least paint it," I blurt out. The walls are the color of dog shit.
She gives me a strange look. "Huh?"
I look at her. "What?"
She sighs and shakes her head. "Never mind."
She pulls out a key and lets us into a room. We walk in. I sniff. Something smells a little funky. I look at Haley and wrinkle my nose. "Someone went a little heavy on the beans." I clap a hand over my mouth. Did I just say that out loud?
Apparently so because she glares at me. "That's the room's smell, asshole!" she says.
Damn it! It's gonna be a looooong night.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Haley's POV
I cannot believe he just puked all over the back of the damn cab. It's disgusting! What's more, I would really rather not have to clean it up. So, I start thinking. How the hell am I gonna get us out of this?! I could tell him to drop us off right here, but I have no idea where here is and frankly, I don't want to find out. Plus, how would I be able to drag Nathan all the way to the motel?
Nathan opens his eyes really wide. It's actually kind of adorable. Shit! Haley, you should not be having these thoughts right now, I think to myself. I mean, you told the guy you hated him. "What do we do now?" his breath tickles my ear. He's trying to be all secretive. It's actually kind of amusing. Fuck! I'm doing it again. I really need to stop thinking like this.
I slap my hand over his mouth. If I have any hope of getting us out of this, he needs to stay quiet. So, I lean over to whisper in his ear. "First, I distract him. Second, you shut the hell up."
He snaps back, acting hurt. And suddenly, I remember why he's so damn annoying. "Hey now! I don't appreciate being spoken to like that!" he shouts.
I roll my eyes. Give me a fucking break. "So, he can produce a full sentence," I mutter.
He gives me this quizzical look. "Who can?" He's such a dumbass when he's drunk.
I turn to the cab driver. Time to distract. Now, what to say? I notice a picture hanging from the rearview mirror of a beautiful woman and two smiling little boys. "Is that your family?" I point to the photograph.
He nods and the conversation builds from there. I've just gotten him started in a debate on politics when I feel a finger tapping my shoulder. I turn, exasperated, to Nathan. "Yes, Nathan?"
"Why do I keep making everyone mad?" and he looks so sad when he says it. I just want to grab him in to a hug.
But instead, I raise an eyebrow. "Maybe, it's because sometimes, you can be a real jackass!" But I don't think he heard me. He's staring at something on my face. I sigh. This is not going well. A drunk Nathan is not fun to deal with. He gets very random. He's still staring at something on my face. I look out the window and notice we're only a couple of minutes away from the motel. I snap my finger so he'll come out of his daze. "Nathan, we're almost to the motel. You think you can walk to our room with me?"
His eyes bug out. "You're my room mate?" I turn away and roll my eyes. Perverted bastard.
When I turn back, I see his cell phone in his hand. He has this look of complete concentration on his face as he very slowly and very drunkenly dials a number. I just have this gut feeling that says he's calling Tim. So, I panic. "What are you doing?" I ask quickly.
He remains quiet as he deliberately punches in another button, so I reach over and grab the phone from him. "Hey, give it back!" he says, voice flashing with indignation. He reaches to snatch it back and, in the process, punches me. I have no doubt it was by accident, but it annoys me nonetheless. "I'm so sorry!" he screeches, leaning over with his lips puckered. But whatever he's going for, he obviously misses as he kisses nothing but air.
"That's OK," I mutter. But it's not OK. That hurt like hell! Oh well, karma's a bitch. You say you hate someone and it's like suddenly the whole world is against you.
The cab slowly comes to a stop and I realize we're at the motel. The driver turns to us and smiles. "You kids have fun now."
I pull out some of the money we won and hold it out for him to take. I am pissed beyond belief when Nathan's hand reaches out to stop mine. What the hell is he doing now?! "What are you doing, Haley? Don't need to give my dad money," he says. And suddenly it becomes clear.
I snatch my hand away from his and give the man his money. Angrily, I try to explain to Nathan. "That's not your father, Nathan."
I roll my eyes as he squints at the driver and a look of recognition darts across his eyes. I climb out of the cab and pull him out after me. He stands behind me as I yell to the driver, "Thanks, mister!" I can feel his eyes burning a hole in my ass, but I decide not to call him on it. He's drunk and belligerent and he doesn't know any better. A part of me knows that's not true, that I'm really not calling him on it because I sort of like the attention. But I choose not to believe that part.
Then Nathan starts to say something else. "Uh...Haley." I groan inwardly. What now?! "Should we clean up the mess in the bac..."
I slam the door before he can finish and yell, "Shut up!" I see him flinch and it almost makes me feel bad. But then I remember... he's drunk, he won't even remember this tomorrow.
"I just thought..." he trails off as I drag him toward the motel. He's really, really heavy. I wonder if he works out...? It certainly feels like it. I can feel his bulging biceps as I grip his arm... I curse myself again. Right now, I need to concentrate on getting him inside.
The cab driver's yelling something behind us, but I try to tune him out as we continue toward the building. This is going way too slow. "Can you maybe walk a little faster?" I snap.
He glares at me. "What?! We're already running." Oh, Jesus. How stupid can this guy get? I just give him a look and he quickly shuts up.
I pound through the front doors, hauling Nathan in after me. The guy at the registration desk smirks. I roll my eyes. Asshole. Nathan waits by the door as I walk up to the desk. I smile, trying to be polite. "Hey, can I get a room for two, please?"
The guy looks me up and down. I look at his name tag. Ryan. "Depends? Are those two people me and you?"
Shit. Somehow, I knew this wasn't gonna be easy. OK, think Haley. What to do now? Ah-ha! I got it. "Actually, it's for me and my boyfriend," I clip out, smiling tightly and pointing over at Nathan.
The guy quickly appraises him and I can see a bit of admiration in his eyes. And I know why. Everyone looks up to Nathan. It's like the guy's a fucking god or something. But the look is gone before I can call him on it. "Yeah, but he's trashed. He'll never know..."
I bristle at his blatant insinuation. And I lose it. "Listen, you sleazy bastard, I don't work like that. First, I wouldn't screw you if someone held a gun to my head, second, you're an asshole, and third, I have a boyfriend. So, if you don't mind Ryan, I'd appreciate my room key now."
Without another word, the guy hands me the key and I hand him the money. Just as I'm about to leave, he winks. "I'll see you later."
I scoff. "No, you won't."
"Hey, what's your name?" he shouts as I'm walking away.
"Go to hell!" I call back over my shoulder.
I stomp back over to Nathan and grab his hand. "Come on," I say, guiding him out the doors and to the building where the actual rooms are. I'm still fuming as we go inside.
"They could at least paint it," I hear Nathan say.
What the hell?! I give him a strange look. "Huh?"
He looks at me. "What?"
I sigh. Dumbass. I shake my head. "Never mind."
I unlock the room and we walk inside. I shut the door behind us. Then, Nathan has to go open his mouth again. 'Here we go,' I think. But what he says next pisses me off. "Someone went a little heavy on the beans."
I glare at him. If he would shut up once in awhile, I might actually like him. "That's the room's smell, asshole!"
He raises an eyebrow. "Really? Cause I could've sworn it was coming from your direction... you don't have to be embarrassed, Haley."
He is so fucking annoying! "Go to hell!" I spit out venomously, going into the bathroom and slamming the door behind me. I start the shower.
Damn it! It's gonna be a looooong night.
Thirty minutes later, I exit the bathroom in my same clothes and see Nathan asleep, sprawled across the bed. Great. That's just great. Now, I have to sleep on the floor. He's such a gentleman. I sigh. Then quickly notice how cold it is. I rush over to turn off the air conditioning. "Don't," I think I hear Nathan's voice say. And sure enough, I turn and he's watching me through half slit eyes.
"Nathan!" I cry, irritated. "It's freezing!"
"Haley!" he says. "Stop shouting!"
I roll my eyes and reach to turn off the air again.
"Haley..." he whines.
"What?!" I snap. "How the hell am I supposed to keep warm?" I shut my mouth quickly, realizing how easy it would be for him to make some sort of suggestive innuendo out of that.
I'm surprised when he simply motions toward a chair in the corner where his sweatshirt's laying. Wow, his head must really hurt. But I quickly pick it up and shove it on, exchanging it for my v-neck top. Then I look at him on the bed and down at my short little skirt. Oh no! There's no way in hell I'm getting anywhere near him with this thing on when he's lying in a bed drunk. "What are you doing?" he says groggily. I glance at him and his eyes are closed now.
"Um..." Should I tell him? "I'm wearing a skirt."
"So?"
"So?!" I say indignantly. "Me and you on a bed with me wearing nothing but your sweatshirt and a mini skirt."
I expect him to argue, but instead, he starts unbuttoning his pants. "Whoa! What are you doing?" I cry. This guy is not seriously going to sit here and strip in front of me, is he? But apparently he is, as he slips off his pants. He tosses them to me and I catch them. I give him a weird look. "And what do I do with these?" I ask.
He groans and burrows his head under a pillow. "Put em on."
I look down at the baggy jeans in my hands... baggy jeans that are about 5 times bigger than me. "Yeah, I don't think so," I mutter, throwing them back to him.
They land on his pillow. He pulls his head from under it and throws them back weakly. "It's that or the skirt," he mumbles, sounding really tired.
I think about it and realize he's right, so I quickly pull off my skirt and pull his pants on. They don't fit well at all, so I slide the belt off my skirt and put it on. I look up at him, only in his boxers and wife beater. And have to catch my breath. He really is a sexy bastard. He's looking at me with a small smile. "What?" I say.
"You look ridiculous," he slurs.
I roll my eyes. "Thanks, Nathan. Really, that's just what every girl wants to hear." I move cautiously toward the bed and lay stiffly on the opposite side from him. He starts to move towards me, eyes trained on my chest. I quickly shove him, maybe a little too hard. I watch as he falls to the floor with a loud thump.
"Shit, Haley!" he screams.
I smirk. "Sorry."
Suddenly, a clap of thunder sounds outside our room. I jump. Damn it! I hate storms. I half expect Nathan to get back on the bed, but he remains on the floor.
I listen as the rain starts outside. A few minutes later, it's pouring out. And Nathan's still on the floor. I wonder why it's bothering me so much. I actually feel kind of bad. Shocking as it may be... I'm ready to admit I've been sort of a bitch. He deserved most of it though!
Just as another clap of thunder shakes the small motel, I feel something move and look over to find Nathan crawling back onto the bed. He's on his side and I'm on mine. But suddenly, really loud thunder booms all around us and I hurl myself at him, burying my head in his chest until it's over. His arms come around me and I relax. I look up into his eyes. He's smiling lazily. He seems to do more of that when he's drunk. Well, I guess everyone does under the influence of alcohol.
"Haley..." he trails off. His hands rubbing softly up and down my back. I know he probably doesn't even notice he's doing it, but it feels nice.
"Hmm?" I snuggle into him a little more.
"You're beautiful," he whispers.
It's one of the nicest things anyone's ever said to me. He moves to capture my lips in one of those mind blowing kisses and I let him. It's long and slow and drawn out and one of the best things I've ever felt. I pull away after awhile and he gives me one more quick peck before settling back down. I can feel a million different things swirling around inside me and I don't know what I'm feeling. Thunder resonates around us again and I jump.
He smiles, looking down at me with his eyes half closed. "You scared, Haley?"
I don't want to tell him the truth; don't want to give him the satisfaction, but I find myself nodding, almost against my will.
He holds me tighter. "No worry. I'll protect you..." he trails off. I realize I shouldn't be letting him hold me, it's probably giving him the wrong impression (something I definitely don't want to do), but before I can protest, I realize he's already asleep. I sigh. Oh well, he won't remember tomorrow.
I try to sleep, but his words are still ringing in my head. People always say you tell the truth when you're drunk. Does he really think I'm beautiful? 'It doesn't matter,' my conscience whispers. 'You can't go there.'
Finally, an hour later, sleep claims me.
The next morning, I wake up and look around at the clock. It's 11:00. I bolt up in bed and realize Nathan's not there. Shit! There goes my plan to wake up before him, so he never knows I slept in his arms... great, he's probably off somewhere smirking right now.
Rubbing my eyes, I look around and notice he's not anywhere in the room. I shrug. Not any of my business what he does while we're here. I start thinking about what we can do for lunch. Nothing comes to mind. I get up and stretch, heading into the bathroom. The TV's on, turned to the news. I start when I see it. There's a TV in here? I didn't know motel rooms had TVs.
I look in the mirror above the sink. I'm disgusted by what I see. I really need a brush. And a toothbrush. And some new clothes. And some shampoo and soap that isn't some disgusting motel brand.
Walking back into the room, I notice his half empty cup of coffee sitting on the nightstand. It's a little cold, but it'll do. I take a few sips. Maybe he won't mind...
I take another gulp of coffee... then promptly spit it out as I hear the weather report on the TV...
"The storms from last night rapidly reached the point where they could be categorized as a tropical storm. There are possible hurricane signs. Everyone, please find cover. Those inside, please stay there until further notice..."
As always, your reviews meant the world. Keep them coming, but only if you feel like it. Thanks so much for the dedication and the love. I love all of you too!
Guess I'll leave you with some spoilers:
- Our favorite hot guy sobers up
- SURPRISE! Nathan's friend from the bar makes another appearance...
- There's new competition for Haley... and Nathan doesn't like it.
Well, next chapter will be full of surprises. (That's a promise.) I could leave you so many more spoilers, but I'll quit while I'm ahead. I don't foresee any roadblocks to updating in the near future, so I should be able to do it soon. :)
Love,
Ashley