_ HALEY : It seems it's time for speeches, so...
Haley, Lindsay and Brooke had of course prepared a little note to pay tribute to Peyton tonight. Brooke first let Haley evoke their memories and especially their most shameful delusions to the assembly. Peyton was already laughing out loud and Brooke wondered if Jake had any idea what a crazy person she had been... And at the same time, she knew that they had found each other well because they were similar in that way too. Then came Lindsay's turn... She had praised Peyton whom she had known for a shorter time. But Brooke noticed that she seemed to sincerely like him, and Peyton too, judging by her friendly smiles. Then finally came his turn...Just meeting Peyton's gaze already brought tears to his eyes.
_ PEYTON : Don't make me cry from the start, Brooke...
Brooke smiled at her and started as fast as she could so she wouldn't break down so quickly.
_ BROOKE : My sister ... What a beautiful day we all just had ... A day in your image. Joyful, radiant and exhilarating. Lucky for you Jake, I know you realize how lucky you are to have met the most beautiful person on this earth ... Even if now that you've said yes and you can't turn back, I must also warn you !
Everyone had laughed and Brooke exchanged a knowing and tender smile with her sister who knew she had nothing to fear.
_ BROOKE : Peyton may be the youngest of the two of us, but she has always been a huge and unconditional support to me... When you say it like that, it's obviously an incredible quality, but it can also be annoying sometimes. When you're sick and at the bottom of your bed, she'll come and rip the covers off you so you get up... Because, as she's told me dozens of times, the world is waiting for you outside... So get moving! Because she'll cook you amazing meals to comfort you after a heartbreak or a difficult day... Because she'll tell you jokes or turn up the music to make you dance and forget all your worries... Because even if you can't stand up, she'll carry you with the strength of her arms to put you on her level...
Moved, Brooke thought back to all those times Peyton had made her forget the existence of her wheelchair.
_ BROOKE : Because beyond being a huge stubbornness, she is the most generous and perfect person. But rest assured, Jake ... Nothing bad can happen to you because Peyton is the most effective of all anti-depressants !
Brooke paused for a moment before continuing.
_ BROOKE : Peyton...I want to tell you how sure I am that Mom and Dad would have been so proud of you. Of the beautiful person you are, of your values, of your friends and of your future little family. I love you so much my sister... And I wish you all the happiness you deserve !
This time, tears were flowing down Brooke's cheeks as well as Peyton's... But also on the other guests'. Peyton rushed into Brooke's arms, like a vital need to cling to the one who will always be there.
_ PEYTON : I love you so much, Brooke. Thank you... Thank you for being the incredible sister that you are too !
And as Peyton hugged her, Brooke's gaze fell on Lucas's who was looking at her at the same moment. He was finally realizing perhaps that Brooke's love for her sister was stronger than anything. That all the trials they had been through had made them an unshakeable and indestructible core. But again, it wasn't just him that Brooke saw when she looked at him... She also saw her other reason for living. This reason for living whose name was Cameron and who had just joined her and her sister in this magical hug. And as Brooke slowly came to her senses, she took her place at the table again, her eyes still wet.
_ CAMERON : Are you sad, Mom?
_ BROOKE : Oh no, sweetheart, I'm happy, very happy even... For Aunt Peyton.
_ CAMERON : Just for Aunt Peyton, not for you ?
Brooke knew her question was due to the innocence of childhood but it was nevertheless heavy with meaning.
_ BROOKE : I'm happy because I have everything to be happy.
And she realized that her answer ultimately did not answer the depth of the question. Peyton's happiness was hers... At least in part because it was not with her that she would build her life. She had everything to be happy. However, the arrival of Lucas and what he awakened in her made her doubt... But she already no longer had no time to think about it as the boys got up in turn... Time for their speech. And while her eyes should have been fixed on Julian, it was on Lucas that they had once again landed.
The speech of his gentlemen had begun. Nathan and Skills remained true to themselves: crazy, light but sincere. It was now Julian's turn to speak in front of the guests.
_ JULIAN : Peyton, Jake... I think everything has already been said... Your couple inspired everyone here. All these people who are dear to you but for whom you are just as dear, including me and Brooke... And even if we have already had the opportunity to spend beautiful evenings together, this one is certainly the most beautiful! Besides, I am happy because we will surely have to wait a few months before celebrating again as it should be !
Julian was obviously referring to Peyton's pregnancy and the imminent arrival of her little niece.
_ JULIAN : But what a beautiful gift to celebrate the love that unites two people than to give life to a new one! I wish you all the happiness in the world and thank you for making me more than a brother-in-law ... To love ! But also to family and friendship ! Cheers to both of you and long live the newlyweds !
Everyone raised their glasses to the bride and groom as Julian passed the microphone to Lucas. He was the last to speak and Brooke noticed that his cheeks were a little red. He cleared his throat and finally spoke.
_ LUCAS : We always say " save the best for last "... If you knew how I would like that to be the case! I already know what you're going to say... He acts shy while performing in front of thousands of people. You'd be right of course but you'd also be wrong to think that it's so easy for me here and now ... Because here it's different ... Completely and totally different ... First of all I have to talk and not sing! But also because I haven't prepared anything ... As you see, I'm going to improvise... And even more so because I'm speaking to two people who mean a lot to me. You mean a lot because I have known you both for so long... You could say that I grew up with you... Or even, thanks to you... Even if it was in aspects of my life a little different... It was complementary. Peyton, first of all... I am so happy to know that such a beautiful person is in such good hands. I will not come back to ... Short. But know that you have always been and will remain a woman that I greatly esteem. As for you Jake, well you have found someone more perfect than you ...And that was not a given! I know that you will love her as much as she loves you, in good times and bad. I hope that you realize how lucky you are to have found the woman of your life... But not only that.
He seemed overcome by some emotion... As if the words they spoke touched him personally.
_ LUCAS : Because it's something to find her... But you, you managed to keep her and even marry her...
Lucas stopped for a moment, and Brooke knew very well why. He hesitated to look at her but seemed to change his mind at the last moment.
_ LUCAS : You are lucky to cherish and protect the woman who makes your heart beat ... Lucky you ... You have, by your side, the one with whom you feel ready to take on all the challenges and difficulties of life. The one with whom you will live wonderful moments of intense happiness even if you have already started! And just for that, thanks to this gift of life, you will be happy for the rest of your days ... I envy you lovers ... And I think that all the singles here are like me !
Lucas raised his glass and turned his gaze to Peyton and Jake. The three of them smiled at each other. And while taking a sip of his drink, Lucas' gaze swiveled to Brooke's. He stayed there for several seconds. And while his words were still echoing in Brooke's ears and his irises were searching hers, he walked towards her, taking advantage of the fact that everyone had left to greet the bride and groom.
_ BROOKE : Well... For someone who hadn't prepared anything...
Lucas took a seat next to Brooke and poured himself another glass of wine.
_ LUCAS : Thanks Brooke... I let my heart speak.
_ BROOKE : And you did well, it was very successful.
_ LUCAS : It doesn't work every time apparently but it was worth it tonight...
He was obviously referring to her statement from a few years ago. Brooke acted as if she hadn't understood.
_ LUCAS : It made me thirsty... Will you toast with me ?
Brooke took the drink he had just poured her.
_ BROOKE : Come on... Okay.
Lucas smiled, surprised but happy that she accepted his proposal with almost no resistance.
_ LUCAS : Cheers, Brooke... To love ?
_ BROOKE : To love...
Brooke agreed to toast to love because it was the most gripping emotion of the evening... But not only that.
_ LUCAS : By the way, do you know why Jake and Peyton are so good together ?
_ BROOKE : Uh... There are many reasons but I guess you're thinking of one in particular given your face...
_ LUCAS : Indeed ! An obvious and important reason.
_ BROOKE : Oh, that sounds serious... I listen you !?
Lucas was already smiling wider as he brought his mouth closer to Brooke's ear. She smelled his irresistible scent. The proximity of his body and face made her melt from the inside.
_ LUCAS : Neither of them likes cookies, Brooke... Do you realize that !?
Brooke let out a burst of laughter that was as sincere as it was spontaneous.
_ BROOKE : You're stupid !
Lucas was laughing too... The moment was just sublime. As if they were made for each other. As if this time, the evidence was absolute... The time of this moment.
_ JULIAN: What are you laughing at like that !?
Brooke and Lucas had maintained their eye contact for a second too long before looking towards Julian.
_ LUCAS : Ah Julian... I suppose you want your seat back !?
Lucas stood up and Brooke felt her heart clench at the thought of him leaving already.
_ JULIAN : I'm not chasing you away, you know !
_ LUCAS : I know and I thank you for it but I'm giving you back your charming girlfriend.
_ JULIAN : That's nice of you...
Julian looked at Brooke, smiling tenderly at her as he sat down.
_ LUCAS : But you still agree for her to dance with me later, right ?
Brooke knew she didn't need Julian's permission, but she appreciated his gentlemanly side.
_ JULIAN : Sure, my friend! One or two, though I think you'll have no shortage of suitors.
_ LUCAS : I don't know why but I hope Lindsay doesn't have the soul of an inveterate dancer.
_ JULIAN : I don't want to scare you, but I think she could make you dance all night long for your company !
_ LUCAS : I hope she'll take pity on my poor feet... I'm a singer, not a dancer !
_ JULIAN : I wouldn't count on that... Right, Brooke !?
_ BROOKE : We can always serve as an alibi if you're looking for a little respite, Lucas.
_ LUCAS : Thank you, very kind... And for the respite, I suppose that you will grant me a slow dance later... See you later...
And he walked away just after throwing his little bomb... A bomb that only Brooke had taken right to her heart.
_ JULIAN : Lucas is really nice... It's almost a shame it didn't work out with your sister.
_ BROOKE : Too bad !? Nice for Jake!
_ JULIAN : No, I expressed myself badly... But I think I would have liked to have him as a brother-in-law too.
Brooke didn't know what to say to him. It was better that she said nothing and remained silent.
_ BROOKE : You excuse me, sweetheart ? I quickly go to the bathroom, I go see Cameron at his table and meet you afterwards ?
Julian leaned closer to beg for a kiss. Brooke gave him a quick, cute kiss on the lips.
_ JULIAN : I miss you already, my love... See you soon.
Then Brooke stood up, still reeling from the emotions that had not yet decided to leave her body or her mind. And as she arrived in the ladies' room, fate seemed to be against her.
_ LINDSAY : How are you, Brooke?! Nice evening, isn't it !?
_ BROOKE : Yes , very nice evening... We suspected it but it's even better than I imagined.
_ LINDSAY : That's right !
_ BROOKE : And after dessert, it's time for the party and the wild dancing.
_ LINDSAY : This is my favorite part... You too !?
_ BROOKE : I wouldn't have said the same thing to you a few years ago, but things have changed since then.
_ LINDSAY : Oh yeah, of course, how stupid I can be sometimes...
_ BROOKE : Don't worry, I love it now... Even though I already know my date.
_ LINDSAY : What do you mean!? You sound like you're saying that as if it were almost... A regret ? A fatality ?
_ BROOKE : Not really, no. Let's just say that the most fun part of this kind of party is when you can change partners. But you're single, so you'll have that chance... Do you already know who you're going to dance with tonight ?
_ LINDSAY : Maybe...
_ BROOKE : Oh, I'm so indiscreet! Keep your secrets to yourself, you're right !
_ LINDSAY : No, actually... I think you're in a good position to help me a little on this one.
_ BROOKE : Oh yeah !? On what one !?
_ LINDSAY : No, leave it, it's ridiculous... He'll never be interested in a girl like me !
_ BROOKE : You're talking about Lucas, right ?
_ LINDSAY : It was obvious that I liked him ?
_ BROOKE : A little bit, yes, but it's also because you seem to be putting yourself down compared to him... The international star.
_ LINDSAY : Like you said, he's a star... He has all the girls at his feet, so... Do you know him well ?
_ BROOKE : Pretty well... Well, I knew him...
_ LINDSAY : And what would you say about him ? You who see the difference between before then and now ?
_ BROOKE : Well, I think, personally, that he hasn't changed that much in the end.
_ LINDSAY : For good or for bad? Well, I say that because he broke up with your sister at the time...
_ BROOKE : It's normal that you ask yourself the question. I speak for myself obviously but I would say for good. But like you say, he must be spoiled for choice and even more...
It may have been mean, but she was subtly trying to dissuade Lindsay from being interested in Lucas. Besides, she knew she was the only one who made Lucas' heart beat faster than his guitar.
_ BROOKE : So if he's interested in you, maybe it's only for one night... In short, it's better to move on, right ?
_ LINDSAY : Spend a night with the great Lucas Scott !? Tell me where I sign and I'll do it right now !
Brooke laughed bitterly, caught in her own trap. Luckily Lindsay didn't seem to notice anything.
_ BROOKE : Well that's not all, but I had come to pee at the base.
And she hurried to lock herself in a toilet ... Frustrated and already jealous of Lindsay for no reason to be. Once out of the toilet, she washed her hands and got ready to join the party to go to the children's table to see Cameron. She stopped dead when, right in front of her, Lucas was sitting on the white sofa in the small living room.
_ BROOKE: Lucas !?
_ LUCAS : Brooke...
_ BROOKE : What are you doing here ? Are you already taking a break before dancing with Lindsay...?
Lucas stood up quietly and walked slowly towards her.
_ LUCAS : Is it just me or do I detect a little hint of jealousy!?
_ BROOKE : No! You can get close to whoever you want... Lindsay or someone else
_ LUCAS : Lindsay, Haley, Quinn... They have no chance of capturing the slightest ounce of interest from me, Brooke.
Brooke froze in place as he continued to get closer and closer to her... His eyes devouring her.
_ BROOKE : Oh no !? You don't even want to take advantage of this evening to get to know them better ?
Lucas stopped a few inches from Brooke. His hand slipped into hers and Brooke let him.
_ LUCAS : I don't want anything else than to spend time with the one I already know.
Brooke felt he was being enterprising... And his resistance and self-control had gone... Far, far away.
_ BROOKE : You promised Lucas...
_ LUCAS : So I'm just a fucking coward or a fucking liar, Brooke... It's up to you to choose...
_ BROOKE : That's a lot of fucking... And I'm not choosing either... Because you're neither...
_ LUCAS : Oh no ?
_ BROOKE : You may be one of the bravest people I know and certainly the most honest.
_ LUCAS : And would you also say that I am the person most in love with you on this earth, Brooke ?
_ BROOKE : Maybe I'm afraid to believe it...
_ LUCAS : Don't be afraid ... And if you let me kiss you, I might finish convincing you that you have nothing to fear.
And his face moved irresistibly towards her, and Brooke wanted his lips on hers more than anything else. Lucas seemed as impatient and turned around as she did... And he closed his eyes before her to enjoy this contact. His warmth, his softness and his smell immediately brought Brooke the well-being so sought after, so desired. Lucas' tongue forced its way between Brooke's lips and he groaned when their tongues began to dance in duet. Brooke had missed his mouth so much... Terribly, desperately, undeniably. She had the best taste in the world.
_ BROOKE : Mmhh Lucas... What are we doing !?
_ LUCAS : What you and I do best, Brooke... Loving each other after not being able to for so long...