Stay
Chapter 50
Sometime Later
I would lying if I said I didn't date during those years. But as much as I tried I couldn't get Lucas out of my head and heart. I loved him. I always would. And I knew he had feelings lingering for me too. He dated but just like me none of that ever went anywhere long term.
Just because the feelings and shared history and memories tied us together didn't mean we would end up together. Life was messy and complicated enough. We tried and broke up as teenagers.
We got married had a family and still ended. Maybe we weren't supposed to end up together.
We had our kids that would tie is together forever. Maybe that had to be enough. Brooke thought to herself.
(On behalf of me and Haley. We want to thank you for being there like you've been for Luke.)
(We've all been there in our own way but Lucas as you know.)
(Wants to move on and forget about all of this. He doesn't want the kids the two of you share to ever know any of this. Which I understand. But there is no reason to be ashamed or humiliated. Especially in this town.) Nathan said.
As the two sat down for lunch.
(He's ready to move back to his house. It just makes me nervous.)
(I want to support and believe in his recovery. But this just happened.)
(What if Ethan didn't call him. And the worst happened?)
(How would I of explained that to our children.?) Brooke asked. The emotion in her voice thick.
Nathan got up from where he was seated and engulfed her in a hug.
(You can't spend time or energy fixating on what ifs. He's finding his way. That's what matters.)
Nathan knew this was coming. Since Lucas got back she had been putting on a brave face.
...
Lucas got to his front door. After multiple knocks.
He unlocked and opened the front door.
He sighed deeply. At the sight of Peyton.
(You look better than I remember. So whatever you worked seems to be worth it.)
(I tried to visit you and Brooke wasn't exactly on board with that.) Peyton said.
(She told me. I'm sorry about what I said the last time we saw each other.)
(I was lashing out at the wrong target.) Lucas said.
The expression on Peyton's face softened.
(I missed you. And to think there was a time I thought I wouldn't need you at all.)
(I wanted to confirm a playdate with Brenda and Ellie. Their friendship. Is one of the few bright spots in the drama and mess.)
(I hope we can be civil about our encounters for them.) Peyton proclaimed.
(Ellie 's welcome here or at my place. We can all be adults. Play nice.) Lucas replied.
Thank you for the playlist.) Lucas added in.
(My door is always open. For music or anything else you need.) Peyton replied.
As she turned from him and left.
(I don't like Ellie.) Ethan announced.
Causing Lucas to jump and quickly lock the door.
(Why is that.?) Lucas asked.
(Momma hates Peyton so I do too.) Ethan stated matter of fact.
(I understand that but Ellie shouldn't pay e her mom's choices plus she's you're sister's friend. I expect you to be nice and welcoming.) Lucas replied.