Okay so here's the chapter y'all have been waiting for... I kind of rushed through it because I wanted to update (2 days in a row.. how great am I?) so let me know what you think!
The end is near unfortunately.. :(
Thanks everyone for reading and reviewing. I really can't thank you enough!
Lucas was at the Library, currently picking out the latest conquest to delve into. He felt his phone buzzing in his jeans pocket and looked down. It was a text from Brooke:
"Please go talk to Nathan. Haley's here hysterically crying. He told her to leave. Do something... anything. I'm counting on you Broody. (: "
Lucas finished reading the text and ran a hand through his blonde hair. He closed his eyes and clenched his jaw. He knew Haley would snap. He didn't know how she was still putting up with Nathan.
He couldn't hold it in any longer. He needed Nathan to snap out of whatever he was in.
Lucas quickly checked out his novel, and made it to his car to head to Nathan and Haley's apartment. His knuckles were turning white from his hard grasp on the steering wheel. He didn't know what he was going to say to Nathan, but he wanted to make him realize that he and Haley were meant to be.
Lucas finally made it to the apartment, and practically sprinted out of the car and to the door.
He loudly pounded his fist on the door and waited a few minutes to see if Nathan would answer. Lucas inhaled sharply and rolled his eyes. Figures, Nathan didn't answer.
Lucas grabbed his key ring from his pocket and searched frantically for the right key. Luckily, Haley gave him a spare key to her apartment just in case something ever happened. When Lucas finally found the key, he unlocked the door, and eagerly pushed the door open. He looked around the room and frowned. As he could of guessed, there were glass bottles shattered around the floor. Lucas carefully stepped around the glass, careful not to step in it, and searched for Nathan. He didn't see him in the living room, and he knew he couldn't have gone far.
Lucas slowly crept into Haley and Nathan's bedroom and saw Nathan passed out on the bed, with his fist clasped around a small black box.
He studied Nathan's body. His chest was slowly rising and falling, and he had dried tears on his cheeks. Lucas never saw Nathan like this before.
It was like a broken corpse.
Lucas sighed, and gently shook Nathan's chest. "Hey, wake up, man." Lucas whispered, but Nathan didn't budge.
He hit him harder this time, and Nathan stirred.
"Wake up!" Lucas said loudly, and Nathan's eye's slowly fluttered open.
"Haley?" Nathan asked in a hopeful tone.
"No man, it's Lucas. Get up."
"Go away!" Nathan groaned and threw a blanket over his face.
Lucas clenched his jaw, and tore the blanket off of Nathan. He pulled Nathan to sit up, and slapped him across the face.
"What the fuck!" Nathan shouted. "Don't touch me!"
The blonde Scott looked into Nathan's broken blue eyes, and slapped him one last time. "Listen to me Nathan!" Lucas screamed. "Haley is too kind to slap you, but I'm not afraid. You are being an ass hole and you deserve it!"
Nathan furrowed his eyes brows, and couldn't stop the tears from spilling out of his eyes.
"You need to start acting like a man!" Lucas advised. "I know you're hurting but that doesn't mean you should hurt everyone around you. Haley is trying to put on a brave face, but it's killing her. You're not alone Nathan! Do you know how much pain Haley is in? She doesn't want to see you like this. None of us do! You're better than this Nathan! You said you would never hurt her!"
By this point, Nathan was sobbing, and squeezed his eyes together in attempt to control himself. "I know Luke! I know!" Nathan screamed. "I'm a failure! She doesn't deserve me. I'm nothing. She should be with someone who makes her happy. Someone who could give her the things she needs. I can't do that anymore." Nathan said in a broken voice. "I let everyone down."
Lucas's heart wrenched at Nathan's depression. "Are you kidding me?" Lucas asked incredulously. "You won your team the Championship. How the hell did you let everyone down? You made everyone so proud! You won the winning shot!"
"I'm never going to be able to play again! Without basketball, I can't do anything. It was the only thing I was ever good at. I don't know what I'm going to do anymore." Nathan said in a shaky voice.
"You don't need basketball Nathan! You could do anything! You should be lucky you even made it to the NBA. You got to play for two years! Anyone would die for an opportunity like that. You should be lucky you're alive! You could have died! You are alive, and okay- you lost basketball- but it wasn't your fault! What is your fault though is that you're pushing everyone out, and you're hurting Haley! You don't have to be sulking around like this! This is doing nothing for you!" Lucas shouted. "It's not going to get you anywhere. You're Nathan Scott! You never give up. So what? You're going to let one injury from stopping you from living your life? Well if you do, you're pathetic, because you have a whole life waiting to be lived. If you choose to live it like this, then that's fine. It's your loss. You'll loose everything... but right now, you still have a chance to turn it all around. You still have Haley, and if you want to keep her, you better step it up. What would you rather? You living like this for the rest of your life watching as Haley moves on and meets someone else, or carry through with your dreams with her? I know Nathan. You showed me the ring. I remember that giant ass smile on your face when you showed it to me. You told me everything. You have a week Nathan. Seven days. You can still get her back man, but you need to change. You can still have the dream proposal... you can still have the beach wedding... the dream house with ten bed rooms.. five kids.. hell you can have everything you've ever dreamed of, but you need to fight for it. This past year has been crazy. You waited five freaking years for Haley, and this past year I've never seen you so happy. You over came everything with her, and I know you two belong together, so this is just one more hurdle you need to knock down, but I believe in you guys man, you're Naley." Lucas said with a small smile. "Just... don't give up, okay? Please don't.. Everything you want isn't just going to be handed to you. You gotta fight. You have a week. You can do it. Get your girl, and hold on to her. Be the man she deserves. She loves you Nathan, and I know you love her too. So get your sorry ass up, apologize, shave that ferret of your face, cut your mane, go to rehab, and start acting like that Nathan everyone knows and loves. I know he's in there somewhere. Oh- and take a shower. You small like ass."
Lucas finished his rant with a friendly, loving smile, and hugged his cousin.
Nathan smiled softly, and looked at his cousin. "What if Haley doesn't want me back? What if I ruined everything?" He frowned.
Lucas smiled sympathetically, "She loves you Nate, she didn't leave you, you pushed her away, but she still wants to be with you- the old you..."
Nathan nodded, "Well then I will do whatever it takes to prove to her I will change, and I will be the man she deserves." He said with a proud smile.
:You'll get her back man. Just one step at a time okay? Who knows... maybe you'll be one of those rare cases that overcomes adversity and gets to play basketball again." Lucas offered with a smile.
"Let's not push to far." Nathan grunted as he tried to stand up. "Right now, I just want Haley, because I know I can get her back."
"That's the spirit!" Lucas cheered,
Nathan finished soaking in a hot bath, and now he was sitting in his wheel chair with a pair of boxers and a t-shirt on, as Lucas shaved off his thick beard, and his long hair.
"Dude, you look like Jesus." Lucas snickered.
Nathan rolled his eyes, "Shut up, Pucas!"
Lucas smirked and finished cleaning up Nathan, who thankfully looked like himself again. His hair was short, and he kept a small flip in the front because he knew how much Haley loved it. He was clean shaven, and he sprayed a dash of cologne on his skin. Lucas then left the room, and Nathan sat on the bed as he slipped a blue polo over his head, and slipped on a pair of khaki shorts. He looked at himself in the mirror, and sighed. He looked like his old self, but he still didn't feel like it. He wanted to be happy again. He wanted to hold Haley, and kiss her. Tell her how much he needed her, and he never wanted to hurt her.
"C'mon Nate! Haley's still at our house. I don't know when she's leaving." Lucas called from the other side of the door.
Nathan took a deep breath. and shoved the black box that held the engagement ring back in his drawer. He leaned on his crutches and hopped out the door and over to Lucas.
"I'm ready." He said in a shaky breath.
Lucas smiled, and gave a short clap. "Looking good man."
"Thanks." Nathan gave him a short smile, and followed him out the door and down to Lucas's car.
The ride to Lucas and Brooke's house was pretty much silent, because Nathan was thinking about what to say to wiped his sweaty palms on his shorts, and exhaled sharply.
"Relax, Nate. It'll be fine."
"You didn't see her man. She looked so broken. I hurt her..." Nathan said solemnly.
"Just show her you're trying, and she will fall back into your arms in no time. She wants to help you Nate, you just gotta let her." Lucas advised.
"I know. I should never have treated her the way I did. I won't be surprised if she hates me now... I'm just hoping she'll give me another chance. I hope I didn't blow it."
Lucas nodded, "You better never act like that again, because if you do then you really don't deserve her."
"I know." Nathan groaned. "I hate myself."
Lucas didn't say anything, but continued to drive. Finally after a few minutes, he pulled up in front of his house, and helped Nathan out of the car. He then led him to the front door and Nathan waited patiently as Lucas unlocked the front door.
Lucas strolled into the house, and Nathan immediately followed, taking his time, since he still wasn't used to using the crutches. He finally made it inside and listened as he heard crying coming from the living room. His heart broke, because he knew it was Haley.
"I just don't know what to do!" Haley sobbed. "I want to help him but he won't let me! I still love him so much Brooke. I want him to be happy again. I miss him-"
"I miss you too." Haley heard a familiar deep voice say, and her head instantly shot up, and she made eye contact with the the clear blue eyed man, who still made her heart race.
"Nathan-" She breathed and furiously wiped her tears away. She almost didn't recognize him. He didn't have his beard anymore, and his hair was short again- the way she loved it. "What are you doing here?"
"I want to apologize. I never meant to hurt you-" Nathan began, but Haley cut him off when she instantly ran over to him, and captured him in a tight embrace. She was careful not to knock him over, and she wrapped her arms around his neck.
"Are you okay?" She asked as she pulled away and looked into his watery eyes.
"I am now." He choked, and Haley nodded breathlessly as she placed her head in the crook of his neck, and sobbed.
Nathan ran his hands up and down Haley's back and sighed contently. "I still love you Hales. I never stopped... I'm sorry if I made you think that I did. I was just in a really dark place, and I didn't mean to hurt you. I hate seeing you so upset. You mean everything to me Haley. I really hope I didn't push you away... I realized that you mean more to me than basketball ever did. I was just so afraid that you were going to leave me to, but now that I thought about it, I can't live without you. I can manage without basketball, but I can't even breathe without you. I need you so much baby." Nathan cried. "I promise I will change. I'll do whatever it takes, but I can't loose you. I hate that I hurt you. I wish I could take it all back. I want to be good enough for you. The guy I was for the past three months.. I never want to be him again. I want you. I need you. I love you. I'm so sorry-" Nathan sobbed. "I don't know what I was thinking. I can't believe I almost lost you..."
Haley looked at him through his blue eyes and could tell that he was breaking. She couldn't stop herself from crying. It was too emotional. She had been waiting for this moment for three months.
Obviously she would never leave him, but yesterday she had to threaten him that she would in hopes that it would wake him up- and it did.
Haley ran her hands up and down his back, and placed a sweet kiss on his lips. "Shhh. It's okay." She whispered and used the pad of her thumb to wipe away his tears.
"No, it's not okay." Nathan choked. "You don't deserve to be treated the way I treated you. It's not acceptable. I understand if you don't want to be with me anymore-"
Haley furiously shook her head and blinked rapidly to keep her tears at bay. "Of course I want to be with you. I love you Nathan. I can't even imagine what you must be feeling, but I understand. I didn't want to push you but I need you to know that I love you."
"Thank you Haley. Thank you for sticking with me. I love you so much. You're amazing." Nathan whispered in a soft voice.
"Nathan that's what love is about. We have to stay by each other no matter what. I'm never giving up on you, or us." Haley said firmly.
"But you said-"
Haley frowned, "I know what I said, and I didn't mean it. I could never leave you. I just wanted you to realize you still have so much to live for-"
Nathan smirked, "So you gave me an ultimatum?"
"Yes, and it seemed to have worked." Haley said knowingly.
"It did. You scarred me so much. I was so dumb. I was so caught up in losing basketball and I didn't realize I was hurting everyone around me. I thought I would never be good enough for anything ever again. I thought I lost my dream, but I didn't.-"
"Nathan-" Haley began.
"Because she's right here, and this time, there's no way I'm letting go of her." He said lovingly.
Haley choked out a sob, and nestled her face in Nathan's chest, not caring if the tears were staining his shirt.
"I promise you Haley I'm going to change. I'm never going to act like that ever again. I'm going to be the man you deserve. The man you fell in love with. I may not walk the same, but I'll still be Nathan. We may not be in a great place right now, but we're gonna get there. We're going to be stronger. I promise you Hales. I'm going to go to rehab and I'm going to take you out again, because we have a lot of time to make up for. So what do you say Haley James, do you forgive me?"
Haley bit her lip, and smiled boisterously. "Yes..."
"Oh thank god!" Nathan smiled, and leaned down and captured her lips in a passionate kiss.
"I missed you." Haley said breathlessly.
"I missed you too. I'm so sorry-"
"Nathan you don't have to keep apologizing.."
"But I do." Nathan said frustrated. "I promised I would never hurt you, and I did... I don't know how I got so lucky. You know you can do so much better than me right?"
Haley playfully rolled her eyes, "No, because first of all I don't want anyone else, and second of all we are meant to be. I told you through the good bad and ugly, I will stand by you."
Nathan smiled widely, "I am the luckiest guy in the world. I would have been so dumb to send you away. Thank you for staying-"
Haley licked her lips, and played with the hair on the back of Nathan's neck. "Nathan, just stop apologizing, and just kiss me."
Nathan smirked widely, "Alright. I can do that."
He then leaned down and captured Haley's lips into a heated kiss. They poured every single emotion and feeling into the kiss; love, frustration, relief, and everything in between. Haley wrapped her arms around his neck, and eagerly parted her lips so that Nathan could run his tongue over her's.
She felt her knees weaken during the kiss. She hadn't remembered the last time they kissed like this- or just kiss in general, and it felt nice.
Haley moaned softly into his mouth but she then frowned when Nathan abruptly pulled away. She opened her eyes and saw him loosing balance on his crutches. She shrieked and then placed her hand on his back to help steady him, "Oh my gosh! I'm so sorry!"
Nathan laughed, "It's okay. We should probably head home though."
Haley agreed, and quickly said her goodbyes to Lucas and Brooke who were now in the kitchen because they knew they should give Nathan and Haley privacy. Haley helped Nathan into her car, and drove home with a giant smile on her face. It was good to have Nathan back.
One week later:
Haley's eyes fluttered open as she noticed the sunlight peeking through her window. She glanced at the body next to her and smiled. She loved having Nathan sleep next to her again. He had went to physical therapy every day for four hours. Haley was impressed by his dedication, but she was also a bit worried he was out doing it. She had been reluctant to make love with him again but he convinced her that he was fine, and she gave in. She had to admit, although he was injured he was still a knock out in bed. Haley bit her lip and blushed at the thought. She carefully slid out of bed and slipped on a fresh pair of underwear and one of Nathan's old t-shirts. Nathan was still sound asleep, and slightly snoring, and Haley couldn't help but giggle. She hoped he hadn't out done himself last night, but he swore he was fine. The night was truly magical. It was like their first time all over again. They were slow at first, but Haley was writhing for more. It had been too long, and months of sexual tension had built up between them. Haley had then bathed Nathan in hot water, but he literally pulled her on top of him, and they made love once again.
Haley was so glad that Nathan kept his promise. He really was trying his best to be him again. She knew he would get frustrated when he wouldn't make progress at rehab, but he was trying and that was all that counted. He had stopped drinking, and they went out to dinner and spent all day together. Haley's school year had ended and it was now summer, so yesterday they tried swimming together, since Nathan's doctor told him walking in water would speed along the rehab.
He really had come a long way in one week. Haley smiled widely again and tip toed into the kitchen to start making breakfast. She had been taking care of Nathan all week, which luckily he did not complain once. She helped him get changed, make him meals, bathe him, and made sure he took his medicine. Nathan told her that it was like she was his personal nurse, and he told her it was sexy. Haley blushed at the memory, and cracked two eggs into a pan. She then took a package of bacon out of the refrigerator and placed a few strips into another pan. After a few minutes the eggs and bacon were finished, so she placed the food onto a tray, and arranged it so that it looked presentable. The eggs were made for eyes and the bacon was shaped to make a smiley face. She knew it was cheesy, but she couldn't help it. Today was a special day.
Haley then strolled into her and Nathan's bedroom and placed the tray onto the night table. She carefully jumped on the bed, careful not to hit Nathan's knee, and she straddled his stomach as she leaned down and kissed him softly.
Nathan let out a small groan, and his eyes fluttered open.
"Mhmm good morning baby." Nathan said in a deep voice that was laced with sleep.
Haley smiled, and ran her hands against his naked chest. "Hi sexy."
"Something smells good." Nathan said as he inhaled the sweet aroma of eggs and bacon.
"I made you breakfast." Haley said with a cheeky smile.
"Mhm good, I'm starving." Nathan smirked, and then attached his lips onto Haley's neck. She let out a content sigh, and bit her lip.
"Babe..." She tried to scold but it turned into a moan.
"You taste so good." Nathan mumbled.
Haley let out a shaky breath and reluctantly rolled off of him. "You have to eat breakfast."
"Can't I just eat you?" Nathan smirked.
Haley playfully rolled her eyes and walked over to the tray of food. She brought it onto the bed, and fed him a piece of bacon.
"Now what did I do to deserve this?" He asked as he crunched on the crispy piece of bacon.
Haley smiled, "I'm just so proud of you Nathan. I know you've been working hard at rehab."
Nathan shrugged, "Yeah I guess so."
"I'm serious baby. You've come so far. You make me so proud."
Nathan smiled, "Thank you."
"You're welcome." Haley smiled, and grabbed a bite of bacon.
"So," Nathan began as he wrapped his arms around her and kissed her forehead. "Happy Anniversary, Haley James."
"You remembered!" Haley said with glee.
"Of course I remembered you dork."
Haley crinkled her nose, and kissed him sweetly. "I can't believe it's been a year."
"Neither can I." Nathan said breathlessly. "It's been the best year of my life."
"Mine too." Haley said dreamily.
"Although the past three months technically don't count. I wasn't exactly boyfriend material."
Haley smiled sympathetically and ran her fingers along his chest, "It's okay Nathan. We got through it, and now we're stronger."
"You're right. I wouldn't trade this year for anything."
Haley kissed his nose, and smiled. "Neither would I."
"So what do you want to do today?" He asked.
Haley bit her lip, "I don't know. I was probably just going to make you a romantic dinner. I know you probably don't want to really go out-"
Nathan sighed, "I'm sorry Hales. You know I wish we could do something more romantic and go out-."
"It's okay. I understand." Haley sighed.
Before Nathan could say anything, he heard the doorbell ring, and his heart rate quickened.
Haley instantly got up, but Nathan gently pushed her down. "I'll get it." He answered.
"Nathan, your knee-" She protested.
Nathan shook his head, and gently got up from the bed. He slowly slid a pair of boxers on, and grabbed his crutches. He made his way to the door, and opened it.
"Sal! You're here!" Nathan greeted the man in the black suit.
"Hi Mr. Scott. Are you ready?"
Nathan craned his neck and saw Haley emerge from the bedroom. "Baby, who's here?" She asked softly.
Nathan cleared his throat, and looked back at Sal. "Uh, Hales this is my limo driver when I was in the Bobcats."
Haley gave him a puzzled look. "Uh.. okay?" She laughed awkwardly.
"He's taking us somewhere, so get dressed."
"What?" Haley laughed. "Where are we going?"
"You'll see, just hurry!" Nathan advised, and Haley went back into the room and followed Nathan's instructions.
"Thanks so much Sal." Nathan whispered. "You know where to go right?"
The elderly man nodded, "Yes sir."
Nathan then discreetly handed Sal the bags that he packed last night, and that he hid in the coat closet. Sal then walked back to the limo and put the luggage in the trunk.
Nathan then went back into the bedroom and saw Haley making the bed.
"What the hell is going on?" Haley asked.
"I don't know. He said my coach told him to come and pick me up. Something about a team meeting. I don't know. I'm sorry I hate to do this on our anniversary-" Nathan lied.
Haley bit her lip, "It's fine. I just don't understand why your coach had to call your driver. I could have driven you."
Crap. Nathan thought.
He was the worst lair.
"Uh.." He stuttered, "Well, I guess it was just really impromptu, and obviously I can't drive, and I guess he didn't know if you were busy or something-" He ranted.
Luckily Haley fell for the lie, and shrugged, "Okay, well, do you want me to go with you?"
Nathan nodded, "Yeah, I don't know what they're going to tell me. I need my partner in crime for moral support."
Haley smiled, "Okay."
Five minutes later, Nathan and Haley were all ready, and they went to the parking lot to go to the limo.
Sal held the door open for the couple, and Nathan and Haley slid into the seats.
"This is awesome!" Haley shrieked. "I've never been in a limo before!"
Nathan chuckled, "It's pretty cool."
Haley then rested her head on Nathan's shoulder as Sal got into the front seat and started to drive.
"What do you think they're going to tell you?" Haley asked.
"I have no clue." Nathan said nervously. He hated lying to her.
"Are you nervous?"
"Not really." He shrugged. "I have you."
Haley smiled, and kissed him passionately.
"After I meet with my coaches, we can just head back to my apartment in Charlotte and have dinner. Does that sound okay?"
"That sounds perfect." Haley whispered and placed a long kiss on Nathan's lips.
The kiss then progressed into a heated make out session, and Nathan ended up laying on this back, with Haley sprawled across his stomach. She ran her hands under his shirt, and Nathan attacked Haley's lips with his own. He ran his hands through her dark hair and softly sucked on her lower lip.
They stayed like that for what seemed like hours, and they took a few minutes to breathe in between make out sessions.
After a while, Haley picked her head up and decided to look out the window. It didn't seem like the normal route to Charlotte..
"Nathan? Are we going the right way?" She questioned.
Nathan sat up and looked out the window, "Uh, Sal usually takes a short cut."
"Oh. Okay." Haley said simply.
"Thank you for coming with me. I know you'd rather be doing something else." Nathan said with a sigh.
"It's okay." Haley said as she ran her hands over his chest. "I'm your partner in crime, remember?" She giggled.
Nathan grinned widely, "I love you." He whispered.
"I love you too."
Nathan knew Haley would probably start asking more questions so to distract her he decided to kiss her again.
Haley moaned into his mouth, and felt him harden beneath her. She smiled against his lips and situated herself so that she and Nathan were more comfortable. She wrapped her arms around his neck and Nathan lowered his hands to her backside.
The couple were in the midst of a hot make out, and didn't even realize the car had stopped.
Sal turned around and cleared his throat, but neither of them heard him.
"Excuse me, Mr. Scott, we are here." Sal said in a loud voice.
Haley heard Sal and instantly jumped off of Nathan, as she felt a blush creep up her neck and cheeks.
"Oh." Nathan cleared his throat and pulled down his shirt. "Okay, thanks."
"That was quick." Haley pointed out, and scooted over to the door which Sal was holding open for her.
She stepped outside and her jaw dropped as she noticed her surroundings.
"This isn't Charlotte..." She whispered.
Nathan carefully slid out of the car, and wrapped his arms around Haley, while still clutching onto his crutches.
"Nathan what's going on?" Haley asked as she looked at cabin 23. the same cabin she and Nathan shared when they were 18 at Holden Beach.
"Happy Anniversary." He whispered into her hear.
"Oh my god!" She shrieked happily, and turned around in his arms to kiss him.
Nathan smiled, "You really think I wouldn't do something big on our one year anniversary? I know I've been an ass these past few months, and I just wanted to make it up to you..."
Haley's brown eyes bore into his blue ones, "This is so perfect. Thank you so much! I still can't believe this-"
"This is where it all happened." Nathan pointed out.
Haley felt the tears forming in her eyes, "I love you so much Nathan Scott."
"I love you too." He smiled, "Happy Anniversary!".
Once Nathan and Haley unloaded their luggage into the cabin, they decided to take a trip down memory lane and walk down my the river.
Nathan was slow on his crutches, but Haley was patient, and walked alongside him, occasionally grabbing his bicep to help steady him.
"I still can't believe you surprised me like this.." Haley said in disbelief.
"Did I get you?" Nathan laughed.
"Yes! I mean I was a little confused about the whole Sal coming to get you to take us to Charlotte, but I had no idea this was where he was taking us. How did you plan all of this?"
Nathan smiled, "A few days ago. I knew I really wanted to go all out for our anniversary, and plus I still feel guilty about the way I acted-"
"Well this is perfect. I've always wanted to come back here. Thank you so much." Haley gushed.
"You're welcome." Nathan smiled.
"You're so romantic! This is so special. This is perfect!" Haley ranted.
Nathan smiled, "Well I want you to enjoy it. You've done so much for me, and we deserve this. We've been through hell and back, and we really deserve a nice vacation together. Just the two of us." Nathan said.
Haley nodded, and kissed his cheek, "I agree."
Nathan suddenly stopped walking and smiled.
Haley noticed him stop hopping on his crutches and placed her hand on his back because she thought he needed a rest.
"What's wrong?" She asked.
Nathan hopped closer to the water and pointed to the small red canoe. "Let's go."
"Nathan, your knee-"
"My knee is fine Hales. C'mon, please?"
Haley bit down on her lip and thought about it. The night was beautiful, and the sunset was glowing in the reflection of the water. How could she say no that that?
"Okay." She relented, and helped Nathan into the canoe. He bent his left knee, and straightened out his right knee with the brace around it. Haley then carefully stepped inside the canoe, and placed Nathan's crutches in the canoe, and grabbed the oars.
Nathan and Haley were facing each other on the wooden benches in the canoe, and they started to paddle using the oars.
"Do you remember we had our first kiss on this lake? It was our first date, too." Nathan asked as he broke the comfortable silence.
Haley smiled, and Nathan felt the butterflies dance around his stomach.
"Of course. That was so romantic. I think about it all the time." She gushed.
After hours of convincing, Haley finally agreed to go on a date with Nathan. She still had no idea where they were going and all he told her was to wear comfortable shoes.
"Tutor girl! Are you almost done? I have to do your make up!" Brooke whined.
Haley laughed softly as she came out of the bathroom, wearing a light green sundress.
Brooke turned around and shrieked loudly, "Tutor girl! You look beautiful!"
Haley blushed, "Really?"
"Yep! Nathan won't even know what hit him!"
Haley giggled, and her face got even warmer. "Okay, well he's going to be here soon, so hurry up!"
Brooke rolled her eyes, "He's right across the street, he can wait."
After about twenty minutes, Brooke finished with Haley's make up, and Haley put her honey blonde hair pinned back into a neat bun. She was putting on her silver strapless sandals, when there was a soft knock on their cabin door.
Brooke squealed and jumped up from the chair she was sitting in. "That must be Nathan! I'll go get it!" She exclaimed happily and ran down the stairs to open the door. On the other side, Nathan stood in a light blue collared shirt, and beige cargo shorts, holding a bouquet of small purple flowers. He had on a nervous smile, but it quickly faded when Brooke opened the door.
"Where's Hales?' He asked.
Brooke rolled her eyes, '"Nice to see you too, Nate!" She joked.
Nathan chuckled, "Sorry. Hi Brooke. I'm just a little nervous for tonight." Nathan admitted shyly.
"Aw! That's so cute!" Brooke cooed. "Haley's just finishing getting ready upstairs. She looks ah-maz-ing by the way."
Nathan smiled, "She always does."
"Aw! I knew you guys would be totally adorable together! But I swear to god Nathan, you better not break her heart because she's my best friend, and if you do anything, I will kill you...-" Brooke was ranting, but Nathan wasn't paying attention because he looked up and watched as Haley came down the stairs. His breath got caught in his throat, and he felt like his heart would explode. His stomach started to do back flips, and he lost the ability to think.
Haley smiled shyly as she descended the staircase, and looked into Nathan's crystal blue eyes. He had on a blue shirt, which made his eyes even more clear, and Haley loved the way they bore into her own. His collared shirt clung to his muscular body, and Haley couldn't deny how handsome he looked. She stepped down from the staircase and walked straight into Nathan's open arms. He hugged her tightly, inhaling her vanilla scented shampoo, but still unable to form a complete thought.
Haley wrapped her arms around Nathan's lower body, and instantly became intoxicated by his strong scent of cologne. She pulled away from the hug and smiled.
"Hi, Nathan."
Nathan starred at Haley's mouth, and knew it was moving, but he couldn't hear what she way saying. His eyes then swept over Haley's green sun dress, which stopped a little above her knees, displaying her tan, fit, legs. The dress was classy, and flowed nicely, but also showed a decent amount of cleavage, which Nathan appreciated.
Brooke noticed that Nathan was in a trance, and knocked him upside the head. "Nathan!"
"S-s-orry! What?" Nathan choked out.
Haley giggled, "Hi." She whispered again.
Nathan looked down and smiled. "Hi, you look absolutely beautiful Haley."
Haley blushed. "Thank you."
Nathan bent down, and whispered in Haley's ear. "I'm serious. You stole my breath away."
Haley listened as Nathan's hot breath tickled against her ear, causing a shiver to run up her spine. She giggled girlishly, and kissed Nathan lightly on the cheek, but turned around when Brooke cleared her throat.
"Yes, Brookie?" Haley asked sweetly.
"Nathan has something to give you." Brooke said referring to the bouquet of flowers.
"Oh, right." Nathan choked. "I brought you flowers. I hope you like them. I tried to get roses but there weren't any left." Nathan explained.
Haley smiled widely, and her eyes sparkled in the light. "I love these! They're beautiful! Thanks Nathan." She said giving Nathan another hug.
Brooke smiled as she watched the couple interact. "Here, I'll put them in water. You two go, and have fun." Brooke advised.
Haley smiled, and hugged Brooke. "Thanks!"
Nathan smiled at Brooke, and then wrapped his arm around Haley's lower back as they made their way out of the cabin.
"So what are we doing?" Haley asked eagerly.
Nathan chuckled, "I can't tell you. You just have to wait."
Haley pouted. "Can you at least give me a little hint?"
Nathan smiled, "Nope."
"You're mean!" Haley pouted.
Nathan chuckled, "We'll be there soon, I promise, and trust me you're going to love it!"
Haley smiled, "Okay."
Nathan and Haley walked a few blocks in order to get to a small lake, and walked to the docks. Nathan pulled away from Haley and walked behind a few trees, but returned a few seconds later, carrying a small row boat. Haley stood off to the side, wondering what he was doing.
"Are we going in that?" Haley asked.
Nathan nodded, and pulled the boat to the edge of the lake, while wiping the dirt on his hands, onto his shorts.
Haley walked over to Nathan, and raised her eyebrow. "What are you up to Nathan Scott?"
Nathan chuckled, "You'll see." He said as he held out his hand, and Haley grabbed it, and Nathan helped her into the wooden row boat. Once Haley was situated, Nathan then slowly entered the boat, and grabbed the wooden oars.
"Are we going to get in trouble for this?" Haley asked as Nathan started to sail away.
Nathan laughed, "No, don't worry. Luke and I used to come out here all the time when we were kids."
Haley smiled, "You came here before?"
"Yeah." Nathan smiled, "Luke's family would take me for like two weeks every summer, but we stopped because my Dad would always send me to some basketball camp, for the entire summer."
Haley frowned, "I'm sorry to hear that. It must've been rough."
Nathan shrugged, "Yeah. My life basically revolved around basketball, I never had time to just be a kid, y'know?"
Haley nodded, and placed her hand on Nathan's knee. "I'm sorry."
"It's alright, I guess I'll thank my dad one day when I make it to the NBA." Nathan smirked.
Haley smiled widely, "I'm sure you'll be the best player." She said genuinely.
Nathan laughed, "I wouldn't go that far. I mean my height is considered short in the NBA."
Haley smiled, "Well then I guess I'd be a midget." She pouted.
Nathan laughed.
"Hey don't laugh!" Haley scolded.
Nathan chuckled, "I'm sorry, but you are short."
Haley pouted, and folded her hands across her chest.
"Hey, I think it's adorable. I like short girls." Nathan smiled, and Haley blushed as she uncrossed her arms.
"Oh really?" She flirted.
"Yep. I like short girls, named Haley James." Nathan flirted back.
Haley's cheeks reddened, but decided to play with Nathan. "I like tall guys, named...Joey." Haley joked.
Nathan's smile instantly fell, and his heart constricted in his chest.
Haley saw Nathan's look of shock on his face, and tried her hardest not to laugh.
"Oh." Nathan said sadly.
Haley bit her lip. "Nathan, I'm kidding." She said, and placed her hand over his. "I like you." Nathan then let out an inaudible sigh of content. A huge smile, then took over his features.
"I like you too." He said shyly. "A lot." He added.
Haley smiled, and slowly leaned over the oars.
Nathan's heart rate increased tenfold, because he knew Haley was leaning in for a kiss.
Why am I so nervous? I've kissed girls before. None of them were ever Haley... Nathan thought.
Haley licked her lips lightly, and starred at Nathan's, hoping he would lean in.
Nathan stood there like an idiot, and his mouth hung open.
"So, are you going to kiss me, or not?" Haley flirted.
Nathan's eyes went from Haley's lips, to her innocent brown eyes, and he smiled.
"I don't know. Do you want me to?"
Haley didn't say anything, but just nodded.
Nathan smirked, and then dropped the oars, and leaned across the middle to meet Haley for a chaste kiss.
Haley's eyes instantly snapped shut when she felt Nathan's warm lips on hers.
A spark immediately jolted between the couple, and Nathan's pressed his soft lips against Haley's candy flavored lips.
The kiss was soft and sweet, and lasted for about five seconds, when Nathan reluctantly pulled away.
Haley's eyes stayed closed, and she brought her finger to where Nathan's lips just where, and she smiled softly.
"That was..." Nathan began.
"That was.." Haley whispered, but then jumped across the boat, and threw her arms around Nathan, surprising herself and him, as she kissed him again.
Nathan was shocked at first that Haley would be so bold, but he didn't care because the first kiss was breathtaking, and now Haley wanted to kiss him deeper, and he sure as hell wasn't about to start complaining. Nathan slowly ran his tongue along Haley's lower lip, and she smiled when Nathan wrapped his arms around her lower back, and kisser her deeper.
The two teenagers soon engaged in a heated make out, until the need for air became an issue, and Haley slowly pulled away.
Nathan smiled, "Wow."
Haley giggled nervously. "I never did that before." She admitted shyly.
Nathan's eyes shot up. "Are you serious?"
Haley nodded.
"I never would've guessed. You sure can kiss." He grinned.
Haley's cheeks burned, and she smiled at her feet.
Nathan couldn't help but think how adorable she was, and he couldn't stop smiling. "So are you ready for the best date of your life?" Nathan asked.
Haley smiled, and looked up into Nathan's blue eyes. "Oh, so bringing me out in the middle of a lake to kiss me wasn't the date?" She joked.
Nathan chuckled slightly, "Oh that was just the warm up." He winked.
"Oh really?" Haley flirted.
Nathan nodded, "Yeah, we should actually get there any minute."
Haley watched as Nathan rowed the boat, and she looked behind her, and saw an island like piece of land, and she gasped.
"Don't look yet!" Nathan commanded lightly.
Haley turned around and blushed, "Oops. Sorry."
Nathan laughed, 'You're going to be the death of me James."
Finally, Nathan rowed the boat up to the sand, and slowly got out. Once he was on the land, he helped Haley out, and gently placed her on the ground.
"What is this place?" Haley asked in awe.
Nathan smiled. "One day, when Luke and I were on the lake, we found this little piece of land. No one was here, considering it's mostly just trees, but we thought it was the coolest thing, so we made it our spot. We named it 'Scott's Island.'" Nathan explained proudly.
Haley's heart melted, at the image. Haley placed her small hand on Nathan's cheek. "That's so sweet Nathan." She cooed.
Nathan smiled. "I remember we made a pact, not to tell anyone about it, but I guess you can be an exception." He joked.
Haley giggled, "Well I'm honored."
Nathan then hooked his arm through Haley's and he walked her to a higher elevation of the land. "I want to show you something." Nathan explained
Haley followed Nathan as they hiked up the land, and made it to a rocky area, over looking the lake. Haley's jaw almost fell to the ground, and her heart dropped to her stomach. She wanted to cry how romantic the setting was. There was a picnic set up, with a bunch of candles, and rose petals around the blanket. The yellow sun was setting in the distance, creating the lake to have a glow effect.
"Nathan! It's beautiful!" Haley gasped.
Nathan smiled, "You like it?"
"Are you kidding? I love it! This is perfect!" Haley gushed.
Nathan was relieved, he was worried that it would be too much for a first date, but decided that he would trust Lucas's word for it.
"Okay, good. I'm glad." Nathan smiled, and followed Haley onto the picnic blanket.
"So what's for dinner?" Haley asked licking her lips.
Nathan smirked, "Your favorite. Mac 'n' Cheese!" He said happily as he took the contents out of the bag, and placed in front of Haley.
Haley's eyes widened, and she felt her stomach growl with hunger. "You're seriously the best!"
"I know, so are you." Nathan smirked.
The two of them, then engaged in small talk while finishing their meals. After dinner, Haley lay comfortably in Nathan's arms, as they watched the sun set.
"This is so beautiful." Haley whispered.
Nathan smiled, "So are you."
Haley smiled, and leaned up to meet Nathan's lips in a passionate kiss.
"So was this the best first date ever?" Nathan asked as he pulled away.
Haley giggled, "Definitely."
"That was definitely one of the best nights of my life." Nathan smiled.
"I agree." Haley said with a twinkle in her eye.
"We've come a long way." Nathan pointed out.
"Yeah." Haley breathed.
Nathan continued to row the boat and he stared at Haley lovingly. The sun was setting, and there were a few stars sprinkled across the orange summer sky.
"I love you." Haley said sweetly.
"I love you too." Nathan smiled.
The couple stopped rowing and just simply sat in the canoe in the middle of the lake as they took in their surroundings and enjoyed each others company,
Nathan was starring at Haley who was looking up at the sky. She felt his eyes on her and looked into his bright blue eyes.
"What?" She asked shyly.
"You're beautiful." He gushed.
She flt her cheeks heat up. She loved it when Nathan would randomly tell her she looked beautiful.
"Thanks." She smiled.
"So is this the best anniversary you've ever had?" Nathan chuckled.
"Well it's my first one year anniversary with anyone, but yes, it's definitely the best." Haley giggled.
Nathan swallowed the lump in his throat and smiled. He then grabbed her hand and pulled her up to stand.
The canoe gently swayed, but luckily it didn't tip over.
Haley clutched onto his shirt, and gave him a nervous smile.
"Nathan we're going to fall!" She pointed out.
"No we won't." He said firmly.
"Don't you need your crutches?" Haley asked.
Nathan smiled, "No." He whispered, and held onto her hands. "I've been practicing this at rehab."
"Oh, okay." Haley smiled softly.
"I want this to be your last first one year anniversary." Nathan said as he looked intently into her brown orbs.
Haley crinkled her eyes brows. "I don't understand what you're saying." Haley laughed. "Are you going to kill me and dump my body in the lake?" She joked.
Nathan rolled his eyes playfully, and slowly lowered himself onto his right knee- the knee that was injured.
"Nathan what the hell are you doing?" Haley shrieked. "You're going to hurt yourself! This boat is rocking! Oh my god! We're going to fall in and drown!"
"Haley!" Nathan chuckled. "It's okay. I've been practicing kneeling so that I can do this." He smiled nervously.
Haley gave him a puzzled look. "Okay but why do you need to show me you can bend your knee on a canoe?"
Nathan laughed. She was so intelligent yet she had no idea what he was about to do.
He took he left hand in his and kissed it. He then bore his blue eyes into her brown ones, and cleared his throat.
"Haley James, I love you. I fell in love with you on this lake, and you changed my life for the better. You're the best thing that has ever happened to me. I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life with you on our first date. You captured my heart and I don't want anyone else to have it. You are the most beautiful woman I have ever seen. I love your smile, your laugh, your eyes, your nose, your butt, everything." Nathan laughed, and Haley started to cry happily. "I had this night planned out in my head for the longest time, and I'm so happy I finally get to do this. I have been wanting to ask you this very important question for the longest time. I wish I could have asked you sooner. I should have, but I wanted this to be perfect. You're the love of my life, and I want to wake up next to you every single day. I want to build our dream house, and have five babies, but most importantly I want you to be mine, always and forever. I want you to be Mrs. Scott. I want you to be my wife." Nathan said and felt a small tear slip out of the corner of his eye. "I don't know what I did to deserve you but I don't want to question it. This past year you have made me the happiest guy in the world. I am the luckiest man in the freaking universe because my dream girl loves me back. Those five years that we were apart were the worst, and then last week I almost lost you again. I never want to feel the pain that I felt when we were apart. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Always and forever. So, Haley James, will you marry me?" Nathan asked as he took out the black box from his pocket and opened it to show Haley the diamond ring.
Haley's eyes almost popped out of her head when she saw the ring. It was beautiful and elegant. Everything she had ever wanted. By now Haley was crying and had her hands cupped over her mouth. She definitely was not expecting this. She was hoping he'd propose soon, but she didn't think it would be in the middle of the lake, and she didn't think he'd get down on one knee- the same knee that he hurt. She was hit with a wave of emotions, and didn't realize that Nathan was still waiting for answer.
Nathan felt a sharp pain shooting to his knee, and the boat was swaying lightly. His heart felt like it was about to burst through his shirt. He was sure Haley would say yes... they talked about it before.. so why wasn't she answering him? At that thought, Nathan's stomach dropped.
"Hales?" He asked lightly.
Haley snapped out of her shock, and smiled through her tears. She graciously held her hand out for Nathan to slid the ring on and nodded eagerly. She could barely form a coherent thought. This was the most romantic thing Nathan had ever done for her. It was the perfect proposal. Extremely thoughtful, romantic, and intimate. Nathan really wasn't kidding when he said he had the perfect proposal planned.
"Yes!" She whispered cheerfully.
Nathan smiled wider than he had ever smiled in his life. It felt like his cheeks would burst.
"Yes?" He questioned just to make sure he heard her. Another slow tear slid down his cheek. He couldn't help it. He had never felt this excited in his life. This was better than when he won the nba championship.
Haley nodded, and slowly helped Nathan up off of his knee. he sat down on the small bench in the canoe and she climbed on top of him, pulling his face close to hers as she kissed him deeply. After about two minutes, she pulled away and smiled.
"Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes!" She screamed as she peppered his face with light kisses.
Nathan laughed gleefully and wiped the tears from her eyes.
"SHE SAID YES!" He screamed at the top of his lungs, even though they were in complete solitude on the lake, he was so happy he had to shout it.
Haley laughed, and kissed him passionately again.
Nathan wrapped his arms around her back and almost toppled over but niether of them cared because they were so blissed out.
"I love you so much Haley James- soon to be Scott." Nathan breathed against her lips.
Haley's heart fluttered at the thought. "Haley James Scott. I love it." She gushed.
Nathan kissed her cheek, as Haley carefully situated herself so she was sitting on Nathan's lap, but not his knee.
"This was... I'm speechless." Haley breathed.
"Was it worth the wait?" Nathan smiled.
Haley nodded eagerly and cupped his cheeks. "It was everything I've ever dreamed about and more. I couldn't have asked for anything better. This was so special Nathan, and this ring-"
"Do you like it?" Nathan asked worriedly.
"It's beautiful. It's so perfect.I love it." She said as she starred at the diamond on her left finger.
Nathan smiled, "I had it custom made. I wanted something specially made for you because you deserve the best. The band was actually my grandmas. She gave it to me to give it to the girl I would marry one day. I know she would definitely approve of my choice."
Haley started to feel the tears forming in her eyes. "This ring is gorgeous! I love it! You're amazing. I love you. This was- just- perfect." Haley gushed.
"Well you deserve the best, and this is all for you baby."
Haley squealed happily and hugged him tightly. "I can't believe this! I am so happy! This is the best night of my life."
Nathan laughed and kissed her nose. "You're adorable, and that ring is definitely a turn on." He growled.
"Nathan.." Haley said worriedly. "I can't believe you went on your knee... the doctor said not to bend it..."
Nathan smiled, and took her hand in his. "It's okay. I told my doctor I wanted to do this. I had to. It wouldn't be the perfect proposal if I didn't. I've been practicing at rehab, so it's okay."
Haley's heart skipped a beat. She could feel it melting and turning to goo. "It's not possible to be this much in love. You' can't get anymore perfect, baby."
Nathan laughed and kissed her sweetly. He pulled away and looked into her twinkling brown eyes. "I'm so happy. You make me the happiest guy alive. I never thought I could be this happy. I can't wait for you to be my wife."
"I can't wait for you to be my husband." Haley whispered.
"I should have done this sooner-" Nathan sighed.
"No, baby, it's okay. This is perfect. It was worth the wait."
"I just wanted everything to be perfect for you. We're only getting engaged once, so I wanted to have a perfect story to tell our kids one day." Nathan said sweetly.
Haley took a deep breath as her heart officially turned to mush. He was perfect. He was all hers.
She ran her hands through his hair, and pressed her soft lips against his as she slowly ran her tongue against his lower lip.
"I am so in love with you." Haley whispered lovingly. "I still fall for you every day. You still make my heart race."
"You make me feel like I'm living a teenage dream." Nathan smirked.
Haley ran her hand over his chest, and nestled her head in his neck. "I've been waiting for this forever."
"Me too." Nathan whispered softly as he ran his hands over her shoulders.
"I can't wait to tell everyone!" Haley gushed as she gazed at her ring with a giant smile.
Nathan smiled, "Yeah we should call your parents. I promised they'd be the first to know."
"Wait, what?" Haley asked as she craned her neck to look into his eyes.
"I asked your father for permission a few days ago, and your mom just happened to over hear. She screamed and then almost knocked me out of my seat. Your dad was pretty excited too." Nathan said with a proud smile.
"Are you serious?" Haley asked excitedly.
Nathan nodded, "Yeah. They said yes, and hoped you would say yes too, because 'we're going to make cute kids' as your mom said." Nathan laughed,
Haley giggled and ran her hand along his cheek. "You keep getting more perfect by the second."
Nathan just shrugged, and placed a long kiss in her strawberry scented hair.
"Have you really been planning this since we were eighteen?" Haley asked.
Nathan nodded, "Yeah I felt something so strong that night on the lake when I kissed you, and for a millisecond this image of me proposing to you on this exact same lake flashed before my eyes, and that's when I knew you this was real."
"Thank you! Thank you for loving me!" Haley cried happily and clung onto his neck. "You're my everything." She cried. "I'm never letting go of you."
"Good because I'm never letting go of you." Nathan breathed against her lips.
"We're engaged." Haley giggled happily.
"Finally!" Nathan smiled as his blue eyes bore into her brown saucers.
"I'm really loving this lake." Haley giggled.
"You have no idea." Nathan chuckled and started to row them back to shore. "C'mon let's call everyone."
"Our family." Haley said with a giant smile.
"Our family." Nathan repeated.
"How's your knee?" Haley asked as she rubbed it soothingly.
"Perfect actually."
"Really? That's too bad because I was thinking I could massage it.. but nevermind." Haley joked.
"Well, I mean.. a massage would still be nice..." Nathan spoke up.
Haley ran her hands over his t-shirt, "Hmm I guess I can do that for my sexy fiancee."
"Fiancee." Nathan smiled. "I like the sound of that."
"Me too." Haley breathed hotly into his ear. "Now hurry up, because I think this calls for a celebration."
Nathan immediately started to row faster, and Haley laughed loudly.
"I like the way you think Haley James." Nathan smirked.
"I love you." Haley smiled. "Always."
"And forever." He finished, and finally made it back to land, where he and Haley rushed back to their cabin and shared their happiness for the engagement all night.
I'm not 100% happy with this, I feel like I could have done a better job but I rushed through it.. anyway I'm thinking about one more chapter and then the epilogue.
Thanks for all the reviews!
Hope you liked the proposal...