Only One

Chapter 12

Authors Note:I've made it clear in previous chapters how Lucas feels about marriage and at this point we know how Brooke feels as well.

This is where they found themselves again. At this crossroads. Opposite sides

Where what they wanted and how they saw the world didn't line up.

(I thought you would of grown and evolved by now. But I was wrong about that.) Brooke replied.

(I am the person I've always been. You are stuck in caring more about what the world thinks. What you're parents think.)

(I've shown up for you every day of our life together. For this family.)

(I'm here because I want to be. Not because of some piece of paper keeping me here.) Lucas said.

(It's more than just a piece of paper to me. A ring. Those vows.)

(It's so much more what you think.) Brooke said.

(My mom and Keith. Nathan and Haley. Nothing stays the same.)

(Especially regarding love.) Lucas said.

And with that he left for the office.

Brooke left out of the kitchen back door. On the way to her store.

...

(We're friends. At this point.) Brooke said.

(I would say so. You finished the clothing for my film days ago and I'm still staying at the hotel. So yes.) Julian replied.

(My friend Rachel keeps asking me about you. If you're available for her to be involved with. Her and her husband have an open marriage.) Brooke explained.

(Tempting. Risky. But in all honesty. There is someone I have feelings for.)

(But I'm almost sure it's one sided.) Julian admitted.

(I don't like it. I think he was testing the waters to see if you're interested.) Peyton said.

Once the two best friends met for breakfast days later.

(We're about the work. And through that we've become friends.)

(There is nothing wrong with that.) Brooke said.

(I think you need to insist he goes back to LA.) Peyton replied.