Author note: Hi! Sorry for the long wait. My mind has been holding this story prisoner and also life has been getting in the way. Loads of excuses I know but all of them are true. Anyway Carrie is the Carrie from season 5 I believe. This story apparently has all kinds of characters from any season but it's my story and it makes sense to me. And I sincerely hope you guys aren't too mad at me for taking so long with this. This chapter is the whole entire day, I would have written the other team's progress but that would make the chapter way longer (which it's already too long as is) and more challenging which you nor I have time for haha. By the way excuse the car scene I know I did it before I just like gags like that in shows and I think it's funny lol
*I do not own any of the characters/songs/places except the obviously made up one's featured in this chapter.*
~x~
First rule in life: If you never go after what you want, you'll never have it.
Second rule: Be careful what you wish for.
-Brooke Davis
~x~
As soon as Brooke woke up the next morning she looked up the weather forecast on her phone and found out that it was going to be around 75 degrees today when only yesterday it was 59 degrees outside. "Florida's weather is weird."
Brooke dialed the front desk and said, "Hi this is room 938 I would like breakfast sent up please."
"Sure ma'am what would you like?"
She looked at the menu conveniently located on the side of the bed. "Mm, the bacon, egg and potato skillet sounds great with pancakes. And some orange juice and coffee. Five cream and sugar packets please."
"Yes Miss. Someone will be right up with your meal."
"Thank you so much."
"You're welcome and enjoy your day Miss Davis."
"Thank you, you too." she then hung up and got out of bed. She walked to the closet and picked out distressed jeans and spaghetti strapped shirt and a long sleeved cardigan (just in case it was windy later) and laid them all out on the bed. "Okay…now a quick shower…"
Brooke walked into the bathroom and ran the shower so it could get hot then turned on her Bluetooth speaker and put on her favorite playlist and listened to Ariana Grande as she undressed.
"Tell me what you feeling/Wanna know what's on your mind/I know we ain't committed/But we do this all the time, oh/Please don't tell nobody 'bout this affair/Baby, go and dirty whine it up, thank you, baby/We might not make it to the room, from right here/I love it when you tell me what to do, like sit right there/Yeah, I need that, Fifty Shades, ooh/Tie your hands properly, I'm loving it…"
Brooke closed her eyes as the words saturated her subconscious, making her fantasize about the man from last night. Of how she wished things had ended between them.
How Lucas would slightly push her against the wall and kiss her hungrily, his fingers would grip her hips as their clothes in her imagination would seemingly melt off. His hands, rough and warm, caressing her heated skin, pressing his body firmly against hers. She would moan softly and kiss him back, thrusting her tongue deep in his equally eager mouth. He would groan gutturally as her hips grind against his, making his erection grow harder between them, their lips would interlock in a wildly hot kiss.
"I want you Brooke…" she heard his breathy voice, so real in her ears.
A loud knock interrupted her fantasy and she felt horribly disoriented and horny. "Room service!"
She exhaled shakily then reminded herself, "Right…breakfast. Okay…" she shut off the shower and stepped out onto the plush rug and dried off quickly.
"I'm coming!" she shouted, tying the fluffy robe together tightly then answered the door with a bright smile. "Hi!"
~x~
After eating her deliciously hearty breakfast Brooke finally made it to the designated location with barely a minute to spare. She looked around and saw that guests were already there. Surprisingly there wasn't a lot of people that arrived at the designated time. Maybe they didn't believe Rachel nor her husband, Brooke mused as she looked around and saw Lucas as well as Peyton, Jake, Nathan and Haley the pitcher who oddly enough was still wearing her gown, her hair disheveled, now cascading around her shoulders. But she honestly couldn't blame her. Brooke had done it plenty of times to her to fully understand.
Brooke continued looking around and saw that there were about twenty people in attendance in the ballroom.
Rachel looked at her wrist watch and said, "Times up. Not as many as I expected but oh well. I trust that you all read the email and have read the rules?"
Most of the room nodded, "If you hadn't read the email then you may as well leave now because it was vital to the game that you did. How else would you know what the first task is?"
Someone from the back spoke up and asked, "Can't you just do a refresher for—"
"Absolutely not. So once again if you have not read it there's the door."
Brooke watched half the room leave with astonishment. Millions on the line and none read a lousy email? Everyone must not believe this and were only participating out of curiosity.
"Okay those of you that have read the rules and tasks you have less than 24 hours to complete the entire course plus the bonus. Since there are…twelve of you left, you will be split into three groups. Four to a group." Owen announced, holding his wife next to him in a united front.
Rachel tapped her fingernail on her chin as she observed the remaining group and said, "Let's see…Team A will be Lucas Scott, Brooke Davis, Haley James and Nathan Scott—you're welcome Brookie." she said with a conspiratorial wink. "Team B will be Peyton Sawyer, Jake Jagielski, Anton Taylor and Bevin Mirskey. And Team C will be Johnny Norris aka Vegas, Carrie Jones, Tim Smith and Alex Dupre."
"Whoa wait a minute I cannot be on the same team as Dim!" Alex exclaimed in obvious disgust.
"Ditto Princess skank!"
Rachel smirked, "You will if you want the prize money."
The two shut up but glared at each other.
Brooke wondered what the history between those two were. She remembered Tim in high school, the over jovial lapdog of Nathan and class clown who was ultimately the butt of everyone's joke. But who was the girl…in fact she was the only person she didn't recall in the whole room besides Lucas and Peyton who she had met yesterday. Speaking of Lucas…he was looking mighty fine this morning in his white t-shirt and distressed jeans, those tanned slender yet muscular arms fully on display—
"...we are here for a moment. To flourish as flowers do. Then we are gone. So make it count. Being here on earth. Make it count." Brooke heard, finally coming out of her musings. She couldn't believe she zoned out like that. What else was said?
She was so lost.
"Good luck guys." Owen said before following his wife out the door.
Lucas and Nathan walked up to her as did Haley followed by Peyton and Jake.
"Well that was interesting." Jake said conversationally, bouncing on his toes in nervousness.
"I wouldn't exactly call it that since they have us going against two of the most competitive players known to man on the same team. It's not fair that we aren't even allowed to switch up our teammates." Peyton somewhat whined.
"Hey I'm pretty sure you have two very competitive players on your team as well."
Peyton rolling her eyes while pointing out, "But everybody knows Bevin is an airhead."
Lucas ducked his head to keep from laughing as did Nathan but Brooke wasn't amused, "HEY! Bevin may be a lot of things but she is the kindest and most loyal person I ever got to know outside of Haley. I can assure you that she will do anything for the win. So stop looking down your nose at her and realize that you have an outstanding team Sawyer."
"Yeah Brooke's right. You have a great team behind you. Skills is a great addition as well. Anyway I'll be more concerned about being on Team C. If superior attitudes are a factor then they are not going to make it past an hour." Haley pointed out as she observed the already bickering team.
"True." Peyton said as she watched the same scene play out. She then turned to Jake and smiled, "Alright let's go gather our crew together so we can get started."
"See ya later guys, I would wish you guys luck but you know how it is." Jake said before jogging off behind Peyton.
Each team had left the ballroom and were loaded on elevators except for Team A and that's because Brooke had decided to stop them from leaving. "Hold up! Now…before we actually get started on this game… Did anyone read the email last night?" Brooke asked while looking at her teammates.
"I was too tired. We fell asleep on the bench outside the hotel." Haley shamefully admitted.
Nathan shrugged helplessly then admitted, "I was with her so no…"
Brooke turned to the blond and asked, "What about you Broody?"
Lucas nodded his head, "I read it this morning…" then winced as he added, "but I didn't really memorize it because I was drained. Why?"
Brooke rubbed her temples then said, "Wow um okay…let's go back to my room and I'll fill you guys in on what it is we're doing."
"Alright but first I need a change of clothes and a shower." Nathan said, still wearing his tux from last night.
"Well hurry up! We have only a full day to complete this and I want to do the bonus items! And I swear if you cause me to lose you will regret it!" she commanded.
Nathan smirked as he said mockingly. "Good to see you back Cheer Captain."
Brooke smirked back, a dark brow hiked in challenge. "Cheer Captain is a small step away from full Bitch Brooke so try not to test it Hotshot."
Nathan rolled his eyes behind her as they boarded the elevator. Nathan pressed the button to his floor just after Brooke pressed the button for hers.
Lucas licked his lips as he stared at her, unable to stop thinking about that hot kiss she forced on him. All night long he had been kicking himself again and again about not taking her offer. In fact she had haunted his dreams as well as his thoughts, even now he was imagining pinning her to the wall of this very elevator and continuing where they had left off, not caring if Haley nor Nathan were present.
He would unbutton that turquoise top that pressed against the curve of her breasts so enticingly and would caress her soft skin as his mouth devoured hers in a hungry kiss. God help him he could still taste the warm sweetness of her luscious mouth…
"Broody!" she gasped as his mouth traveled down the graceful column of her neck. "…Broody?"
"Hm?"
"…Broody!" He snapped out of his fevered daydream as she said, "we're on our floor."
"Oh…" he then chuckled bashfully then tried to disguise his mild excitement. "Sorry about that…"
Brooke gave him a thorough once over with a saucy smirk and a head nod then walked off towards her and Haley's suite. Lucas followed behind and watched the tempting sway of her hips as she walked, her gait full of confidence and allure.
She opened the door and stepped aside to allow Haley and himself entrance.
"Your suite is bigger than ours." Lucas remarked as he took in the grandness of their stylish suite.
"What can I say Rachel and I were close in high school."
"I'll be right back I'm going to go take a shower. I feel icky after spending the rest of the night in this gown." she said as she made a face, already making her way towards the bathroom. "Five minutes tops Brooke!"
"I'll be counting the seconds Tutor girl!" Brooke shouted back just before the bathroom door closed behind her friend.
Brooke briefly looked at Lucas then walked passed him towards her laptop, busying herself with opening the email. Thank God she hadn't deleted it yet as she always did after reading them.
Hearing the shower begin to run Lucas wondered if he should try and make his dreams and fantasies a reality.
"Brooke…about last night—" he began without fully thinking about his actions, his feet gravitating towards her.
"Nothing happened last night." she said frostily, her eyes steadfastly glued to the screen before jotting down what she needed.
He rubbed the back of his neck nervously then admitted, "I know and I can't tell you—"
"Then don't."
"Excuse me?"
She whirled around to face him, her mask fully in place. "Listen I gave you a shot. You didn't take it. Slut hours were from the second we locked lips to the time you watched me get off that elevator." Brooke then pouted sarcastically, "So sorry you missed it."
Lucas chuckled then asked, "Is there any way for me to get those doors back open?"
Brooke had a thing for double entendres. But she found the strength to say, "I'm afraid not. It was a once in a lifetime deal."
"Ah…but here's the thing…I'm a dying man and my dying wish is for those really sexy…doors…to open." he said huskily, his chest briefly brushing against the tips of her breasts. "Would you allow me inside?"
Brooke felt breathless, even as she wondered what could have possibly changed after they said goodnight. Taking a deep breath just after her chin notched a bit higher she said, "I could consider it—"
His hot blue gaze seemingly traced every single line and curve of her body, reawakening the yet to be satisfied hunger within her. She fought the urge to bite her lip or to even lick them, not wanting to give him any hope.
Feeling a bit overwhelmed by this situation Brooke turned away from him once more and sat down on the sofa. "I gotta hand it to you Scott…you sure know how to give a woman whiplash."
Just as Lucas was about to say something, Haley walked in wearing a soft green cardigan and jeans, her hair tied up in a damp topknot. "Okay I'm done!"
Almost immediately Brooke got up from her perch and hurried to her best friends side, now poking at a certain spot on her neck. "Haley, what is that? Is that—is that a hickey?!"
Haley quickly puts her hand over the small bruise and said, "No, it's a mosquito bite."
Nathan enters the room, "Hey guys."
Brooke smirked, "Hey mosquito."
Haley flushed red while Nathan chuckled, not bothering to hide anything from the inquisitive brunette.
"Alright Eagle eyes you caught us! We did make out last night." Haley admitted with a roll of her eyes.
Brooke's eyebrows rose with the admission, "Oh really. What else happened?"
Haley shook her head, "Nothing…much! We went to the bar and had a few drinks and just…nothing else happened okay."
Brooke smiled, completely soaking in this information. "You and Hotshot. I would've never guessed! I'm shocked!"
"Okay what's the plan?" Nathan asked, noticing how uncomfortable Haley was with the turn of the conversation.
"Well all three of you are going to read this email before we even start! And while you do that I'm going to go find a antiques shop to find the camera." Brooke said as she grabbed her purse and keys. "Toodles!"
Brooke hurried to the elevators but just before she could allow the lift to close Lucas held the doors open so he could enter. Brooke rolled her eyes, "Didn't I tell you to stay and—"
Lucas shrugged as he leaned against the wall, "I figured that you would need my help. Besides we're a team. You shouldn't have to do anything by yourself. Especially since you're not from here."
Brooke pressed the button for the lobby and said, "Fine. Since you're here you can help me with the bonus."
"There's a bonus?"
She rolled her eyes then pointed out, "Which is why you should have reread the email." she then handed him her notes and said, "Read."
"Number one… A Polaroid camera (20 more added if you use this throwback for the scavenger hunt but you can be a lame and use your camera phone) Number two Billiards earrings…"
Brooke went to the front desk and requested that her rental be brought around.
As she waited for confirmation the bellhop that still had a horrible crush on her despite her pushing him out walked up to her.
"Hey, Brooke I haven't seen you since I carried your bags—" the boy began but halted as she held up a hand.
"Miss Davis your car is out front now." Sabrina, the desk clerk informed with a smile.
Brooke smiled gratefully, "Thank you so much."
"Brooke can I just—"
"Sorry. You have to be 25 and over to ride this ride." Brooke said before passing him, her attention straight ahead.
Lucas whistles, "Wow…the bitch on wheels thing you have going is kind of working for me."
"Trust me it wasn't for your benefit." she said before getting into the front seat.
"What's changed since last night?" Lucas asked as he got in just before buckling in.
Brooke punched in the address that she got from google and smirked then said, "I should ask you the same thing. But I won't."
"Oh, it's like that?" Lucas chuckled in response just as she drove her off.
She chuckled, "It's just like that."
"1 h 43 min (105.5 mi) via Florida's Turnpike. Head east on Vacation Way toward World Center Dr in 0.2 miles." The GPS instructed. "Turn left onto World Center Drive in 0.1 miles. Turn right onto FL-536 W in 0.4 miles."
"Aren't you glad that I tagged along? It's a long drive to wherever it is we're headed."
"Sure…as long as we don't talk."
Lucas licked his bottom lip then turned on the radio. "Alright…"
"Merge onto I-4 E via the ramp to Orlando in
0.7 miles." Brooke followed directions and merged onto the highway. "Merge onto I-4 E in 4.3 miles."
"Let me lick you up and down, 'til you say stop/ Let me play with your body, baby, make you real hot…" the singers crooned through the speakers.
Brooke's eyes widened as she quickly changed the channel. "That is not where my mind needs to go."
"I can imagine you touching my private parts/ With just the thought of you, I can't help but touch myself—"
Brooke blushed then turned the channel again. "Every man's got his patience, and here's where mine ends/ I want your sex—"
Lucas hid his smile as she changed the station yet again then said, "Maybe you should take that as a sign?"
"Of what?"
"You bring me to my knees, you make me testify/ You can make a sinner change his ways/ Open up your gates 'cause I can't wait to see the light/ And right there is where I wanna stay…" Bruno crooned.
That brought to mind their earlier conversation…"Ah…but here's the thing…I'm a dying man and my dying wish is for those really sexy…doors…to open." he said huskily, his chest briefly brushing against the tips of her breasts. "Would you allow me inside?"
"Take exit 72 for FL-528 E toward International Airport/Cape Canaveral in
0.4 miles." The GPS instructed. "Continue onto FL-528 E (signs for International Dr/Universal Blvd/Orangewood Blvd)
Partial toll Road in 5.2 miles."
"Change the station please. I have to focus." Brooke requested stiffly, the memory of his words and the way his chest felt against hers leaving her a bit shaky.
Lucas shrugged, "Alright…"
He did as she requested and landed on a song that didn't sound as bad as the others. That was until the band sang, "I'm glad you came/ So glad you came/ I'm glad you came/ I'm glad you came."
"Change it!" she snapped, wondering what she did for God to punish her this way. It was borderline ridiculous. She paid the five dollar toll.
"Oh come on Brooke that could have been about anything—"
Brooke rolled her eyes then said, "Not-so-subtle message: Multiple orgasms."
"It could be—"
She sighed then quoted, "You cast a spell on me, spell on me/You hit me like the sky fell on me, fell on me/And I decided you look well on me, well on me/So let's go somewhere no-one else can see, you and me…Lucas they were singing about sex. God everything is about sex."
"It was almost over anyway." he obligingly changed the channel again.
"I don't want anybody else/When I think about you, I touch myself/Ooh, I don't want anybody else/Oh no, oh no, oh no—"
Lucas already knew and changed it one more time saying, "Whatever's on its staying there."
"I get off on you/Getting off on me/I give you what you want/But nothing is for free/It's a give and take/Kinda life we make/When your line is crossed/I get off/I get off…" A strong voiced female singer wailed on the rock station.
Brooke beyond annoyed turned off the cursed radio. "Fine how about lost on a deserted island. You can only bring one thing what would it be?"
"A bottle of water."
She smiled then said, "No. You have to describe what object you would bring and why. This need not be realistic; if you love music, you might choose to bring a guitar, or you're an animal lover so you might choose to bring a dog, or a food lover might choose to bring sirloin steaks, and so on."
Lucas tapes his stubbled chin as he thought for a while then answered, "Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck. It's my favorite book of all time. I've read it a million times and can read a million times more. It's the first book my Dad allowed me to read one summer when I was forced to live with him. He saw my love of reading as a way to bond with me and so he gave it to me. The first thing he ever had given me that meant something to me. My favorite quote from it would have to be…A guy needs somebody―to be near him. A guy goes nuts if he ain't got nobody. Don't make no difference who the guy is, long's he's with you. I tell ya, I tell ya a guy gets too lonely an' he gets sick. I've found that to be true to an extent."
"In what way?"
He then looked at her and smiled wistfully, "Maybe another time…" he then asked, "Same question."
"Keep left to stay on FL-528 E. Partial toll road 35.9 miles."
"If I were to take anything to a deserted island it would be…Vogue magazine. And not just any Vogue magazine either. But the holy grail… Elizabeth Taylor issue—April 1971. I used to want to be like her and would emulate her often. She was so…free spirited. She taught me a lot and yet I didn't really know anything about her. My favorite quote of hers is: I'm a survivor - a living example of what people can go through and survive."
"I can see that about you. The way you carry yourself…you seem like a very tough yet mysterious person."
She shrugged, "I am who I am. No excuses.Next question…"
"What job would you be terrible at?"
"Um I'd have to say a Liberian. I can't imagine cataloging books all day long. It would be a snoozefest. What about you?"
Lucas took a moment to think then answered honestly, "I'd have to say a singer. I am literally the worst singer ever. But that doesn't stop me from singing in the shower."
Brooke chuckled, "Yeah I'm the same way. Haley always tells me to leave the singing to the artists most of the time."
"Okay I got a good one…If you could turn any activity into an Olympic sport, what would you have a good chance at winning medal for? Answer honestly."
Brooke blushed then admitted, "Sex."
Lucas looked at her with shocked amusement, "Weren't we trying to get around the sex issue?"
"Look I always, always got compliments from my partners and they always begged for more. Yes I have other skills but…" she then grinned lasciviously, "None of them are near as much fun. Okay your turn."
"My turn huh…"
"Yes. Your turn. We're having a back and forth response—that's what a conversation is."
Lucas sighed then shrugged, "Not to sound unoriginal but I would have to say sex as well…"
Brooke squirmed slightly in her seat, "Really? I doubt that."
"There's only one way to find out."
"Whatever…What amazing thing did you do that no one was around to see?"
He had to think but then snapped his fingers when a memory came to mind. "I was around sixteen at the time and I made an awesome basket from behind at the foul line which is 15 feet from the foul line to the front of the backboard."
"And no one saw."
"No one saw."
Brooke smiled a little, "And here I thought your brother was the basketball star of the family."
"I don't get me wrong Basketball was my first love but I didn't have the same passion for it as Nate did. Besides I was too much of a geek to play then."
There was something about the way he said that last bit that made her feel a little more into him than she already was. That vulnerability and slight insecurity stuck a cord with her.
Brooke blushed but fearlessly admitted, "I once did the most difficult pass which was a running roundoff backhand back tuck, double foul back handspring. Double fouls are really really hard to do because you literally have to get two full spins in a layout."
"That's really impressive."
"I know right. But alas no one saw one flip." she then giggled, "How did we get to this point?"
"What point is that?"
Brooke peeked over at him saying, "Q and A? It was only supposed to be a one question game."
Lucas shrugged, "Maybe it was because you turned off the radio because you couldn't take the heat."
"I could take the heat just fine!"
He looked towards her as a blond brow hiked in question, "Really? Didn't seem like you could."
Brooke laughed huskily, "I can handle a lot of things geek boy."
"Geek boy?"
"Take exit 42A to merge onto I-95 S toward Miami Partial toll Road for 67.7 miles…" the GPS instructed.
She laughed at the offended tone in his voice then asked, "Well what should I call you then?"
"My name or Broody worked just fine. Even though I don't brood." Lucas said just as Brooke moved over to get in the correct lane.
Brooke grinned, her eyes straight ahead. "You so brood."
"I do not."
"You were when I first saw you."
"And when was that?"
"Hours before the party. You were checking in and you had this intense brooding look complete with squinting eyes. You looked really good like that."
Lucas looked at her, "Really? Were you attracted to me?"
Brooke chuckled then admitted, "Of course I was. But now…I don't know."
"What do you mean you don't know?"
"I don't know. Right now you're a really hot broody new friend."
Lucas laughed briefly, "I can't believe you friend zoned me. Why because of last night?"
"Yes. I'm not at all used to being turned down. Deal with it."
Lucas smiled, "I didn't turn you down exactly." he pointed out, "And I do want you I just felt we should get to know each other better before we have sex."
Brooke released a soft laugh, "You never had a one night stand have you?"
"I actually have and it wasn't my thing."
She chuckled ironically then said, "My whole adult life has been nothing but a string of one night stands. I don't know anything else. Relationships aren't my thing." she admitted reluctantly.
"I can show you how it's done. If you'll let me."
Brooke was tempted. So tempted but instead of showing her hand so to speak she said, "We'll see."
"Well that sounds promising."
"It could be."
Lucas chuckled as Brooke deemed it safe to turn on the radio again. "Gotta get that
Gotta get that/Gotta get that/Gotta get that that that/Boom boom boom (Gotta get that)
Boom boom boom (Gotta get that)
Boom boom boom (Gotta get that)
Boom boom boom (Gotta get that)"
"Yo I got the hit that beat the block
You can get that bass overload
I got the that rock and roll
That future flow
That digital spit
Next level visual shit
I got that (Boom boom boom)
How the beat bang (Boom boom boom)" Lucas rapped, jamming to the song.
Brooke smiled then rapped, "I like that boom boom pow/Them chickens jackin' my style/They try to copy my swagger/I'm on that next shit now/I'm so 3008/You so 2000 and late/I got that boom boom boom/That future boom boom boom/Let me get it now."
Lucas grinned as he watched her, her husky voice smoother than whiskey. The two spent an hour singing along with the radio and when they finally reached their destination Brooke's entire backside felt numb. She was entirely glad to stretch after that almost two hour long drive.
"Taylor's Antiques? What are we doing here?" Lucas asked after shutting his car door.
"We're buying a polaroid camera. Believe me I asked around well before we were assembled in the ballroom and the desk clerk said that this was the best bet." she answered already opening the door to the shop.
"Hello welcome to Taylor's Antiques I'm Taylor how may I help you?" A kind middle aged looking woman asked with a sunny smile.
Brooke plastered on a charming smile as she asked, "Yeah do you happen to sell Polaroids here ma'am?"
Taylor nodded, "As a matter of fact I just got nine that came in a few weeks ago. Follow me please." Brooke and Lucas followed the lady into the back and she led them to her electronics section. "This one here is a rare vintage Polaroid pink cool cam Instant Camera 1980s 80s Gray."
"That's cute." Brooke said, looking at the cute design of the camera. "How much is it?"
"It's around 89 bucks."
"Ouch for an old school camera?" Brooke snorted as she out it back carefully.
Taylor shrugged, "Its vintage and was never used."
Brooke eyebrows drew close as she asked curiously, "How do you know that it works if it's never been used?"
"How about this one?" Lucas asked picking up the hunter green one.
"Vintage Polaroid Onestep Express 600 Instant Camera Hunter Green…that one's around 45 bucks. That one's been used and it works very well."
"Can we try it out?" he asked, a gleam in his eye.
Taylor nodded as she took the camera from his hand, "Why not. Get in close."
Lucas pulled Brooke into his side and she reluctantly allowed it. They both smiled brightly at the camera and just before the camera flashed he kissed her.
Brooke gasped in shock but quickly melted as his lips met hers. The zing she felt during his impromptu kiss was sweet sexy yet alarming. Sex she could deal with but ooey-gooey feelings were another issue. But even so she liked it and wished that it could go on and on but by some miracle she remembered that they were on a mission and couldn't explore this at the moment.
After breaking the kiss Brooke nodded, her voice slightly wavering from desire. "We'll go with this one. Do you happen to have a vintage Winnie the Pooh set?"
~x~
"Prius drivers are the fucking WORST!" Brooke said upon returning to their hotel suite. They had just managed to avoid a collision caused by said Prius when the driver made an illegal U-turn while Brooke was about to turn into the lane to go into the Marriott entrance.
"What happened Brooke? And where were you two? You've been gone for hours! I was worried!" Haley asked, rushing off the sofa to her friend.
Brooke peeked behind Haley and spitted the bed then smirked as she pointed out, "Not too worried since I could tell that those sheets have been used and by the way ew!"
Haley blushed as she rushed to say, "We didn't have sex! We just got distracted…"
"Well I'm glad that you got all of that making out, out of the way because now we have to get down to business—you guys did read it right?"
"We did. I promise." Nathan said as he sat with his legs splayed open, looking casual in his denim jeans and red and white Tommy Hilfiger t-shirt.
Brooke smiled her cheeriest smile and said, "Okay well get your butt up and let's go! We have to get started on this Scavenger hunt! We have six million dollars to win!"
Nathan followed everyone out and watched as Brooke locked up their suite. Once inside the elevator, Brooke pulled out a piece of paper then read, "First thing on the agenda is Clown Car: Take a photo fitting as many people as you can find into a standard 5-seat vehicle. Ooh bonus points for each additional person not on our team!"
"I do not want to sit in that car anymore." Lucas groaned on the way down to the lobby.
Brooke smirked then teased, "Well suck it up Broody because most of these involve cars. And also we have to ride around to find the bonus items on the list."
"Bonus items?" Lucas asked, teasing her.
"This is why you should have stayed with them." She teased back, her smile giving it away.
Once the group made their way to the rental car that Brooke instructed the valet to keep in front for a little while, Brooke instantly went to people in the friendliest manner she could display and said to each person, "Hi I'm Brooke Davis and my coworkers and I need help with a task for work. Since I'm the team leader it's up to me to get volunteers. And if I prove that I can finish these tasks I get a promotion. So can you please help me out?"
"Sure no problem what do I have to do?" which was most of the guys response to her request, women she didn't have much luck on.
Brooke displayed her bewitching dimples and said, "Great get in the car."
"Okay you!" she said pointing to the valet.
The valet pointed at himself then asked, "Me?"
"Yeah I need you to take a picture of all of us crammed in this vehicle. Please it'll only be a minute." she then winked and said, "There's 30 bucks in it for you if you do."
A few minutes later she instructed everyone to squeeze in and then got into the driver's seat and sent a thumbs up and a smile to the valet. He took the picture without a problem. Brooke got out of the car and rushed to him.
"Here you are ma'am." The valet said handing her the camera and the photo.
"Thank you I'll let you get back to work." she said sliding him the tip then turned to the car and motioned for the helpful extras to get out. "And thanks guys for all the help. You have no idea how much you helped us."
"No problem Brooke. Hey listen…are you busy all weekend?" Travis—one of the extras she got to help—asked her, his body leaning towards to her.
Brooke saw the look on Lucas face and smiled, "Yeah I'm pretty much booked all weekend. But you can give me your number and maybe I'll give you a call when I'm free."
"Okay…give me your phone." he said with a sly smile.
Looking back again and noticing the hard stare Lucas was leveling them with Brooke smirked, "How about you just tell me the number."
~x~
Lucas watched Brooke enter the muscle bound beach bum's number in her phone and felt something akin to jealousy enter his once cheerful mood. When she got in the driver's side he looked at her, "What was that about?"
"A possible hookup." she said casually before punching in the nearest car wash.
Lucas shook his head then said, "I thought we—"
She looked at him then said with a deadpan expression, "Must we really rehash that whole friendzone conversation?"
Haley watched Lucas jaw clench in response and wondered what the hell did she miss.
"So are we supposed to do everything in order or what?" Nathan asked as he looked over the list he happened to snatch off of the dashboard while Brooke was getting the muscle man's number.
"She didn't say so I guess in whatever order we want." Brooke replied as she started the car.
"So who's going to record the next one?" Nathan asked.
"Haley."
"What?!"
Brooke peered at her through the rearview mirror and said, "You have to contribute in this too you know."
"But I didn't really want to do this! And FYI you said that we could do whatever I wanted to do when we got here!"
Brooke chuckled then asked with innuendo, "And haven't you?"
"No I haven't."
"Well what do you call Nathan?"
Haley blushed, "For the last time we didn't—"
"I know I know. But we'll talk later okay I promise. For now we have to do this task or whatever it's called."
"Ugh fine."
"Quick Lucas hand me the camera!" Nathan demanded once they stopped at the stop light.
Lucas grabbed the camera from the side of him and handed it over to Nathan without question. Nathan snapped a picture of a canary yellow and black striped Dodge Charger.
"Scratch off American Muscle off the list." Nathan said smugly.
"Okay that makes two off the list." Lucas said with a smile.
"About to be three." she said as she pulled into the car wash. It was kind of busy but when it was finally their turn Brooke said, "Haley you're on."
Haley rolled her eyes then got out of the back seat and made her way towards the detailing area.
Brooke smiled as the men began detailing the rental and said after she got back from paying for their session, "Wow Florida has some good looking guys here…"
Haley filmed the entire thing with her camera phone as the vehicle went through the whole process. Filmed them clean wheels and tires. Washing the exterior. Apply tire dressing. Polish wheels. Clean Treat exterior trim. Polish and then wax exterior paints.
"Sparkle and Shine is completed." Haley said as soon as she got inside the car. "What's next?"
Lucas grabbed the list and said, "Abbey Road…we're supposed to recreate it."
"Where the hell are we going to find a quiet street here? This is a tourist trap." Nathan asked, casually wrapping his arm around Haley who grinned like an idiot.
"Have a little faith…" Brooke said as she made a right turn.
Brooke had stumbled onto a road that barely anyone was on which was near a park with a view of the lake nearby. "We could do the Titanic shot here too."
"You've been here before haven't you?" Lucas asked, just as she pulled into the parking lot of the park.
"Yeah a few times when we were in middle school. We'd hit the theme parks over the summer. Remember Hales?" Brooke said after parking the car. She exited the car and closed the door then said, "We can take the picture over there."
"Who's going to take it?"
They looked around and found a woman walking her dog. Brooke gave Lucas the camera and slapped his ass then said, "You're on Scott."
"Alright fine…" Lucas jogged over to the woman and smiled charmingly saying, "Hey excuse me!"
"Yes?"
Lucas pointed to his small group then told her, "My friends and I are on vacation and we want to recreate the Beatles' album cover for fun. Would you mind taking it for us?"
"The Abbey Road Album?"
Lucas grinned, "Yeah that very one."
"My mom used to love the Beatles. Sure I'll take it!"
A few moments later everyone was in position. Nathan led the line, Brooke behind him, Haley posing behind her and Lucas behind Haley, all posed exactly like the Beatles' famous album cover.
The dog walker snapped the photo and handed him the camera and the photo. "Wow I haven't seen a camera like that since the 80's. Have a good time on your vacation."
"Thanks again Miss!"
"You're welcome!" she called back as she continued on the path around the park.
Brooke spotted the perfect spot for the next challenge and pointed to it saying, "There's a good spot to take the Titanic picture."
Haley then smiled mischievously then said, "I think this is more your challenge Brooke."
Brooke's mouth dropped opened at the suggestion, "Hold on—"
"You've watched that movie twenty million times so if anyone should know how to do that exact pose it's you." Haley pointed out, a smug smile on her face.
"I hate when you're right." she said with a cute pout. She then sighed, "Alright who's posing with me?"
"Not it!" Haley and Nathan chimed together. Nathan then clapped his brothers back then said, "Lucas it's all you man."
"But I just—"
Brooke rolled her eyes then said, "Let's just get this over with besides it's not like you don't want to have your hands on me anyway."
Lucas rolled his eyes while helping her step onto the log railing, knowing that she was right but was still annoyed about earlier. Even so, he pressed her closer to him, inhaling her fruity scent. Once steady, she looked out to the horizon. "Wow it looks so pretty out here." Brooke says breathlessly as Lucas holds her tightly, interlocking his hands with hers.
"It really is." he said as he looked at the lines of her face, studying her stunning beauty.
Brooke eyes met his and her heart pounded at the sight of him looking directly at her, his desires clear. He wanted to kiss her again.
And just as he was about to lean in Lucas stopped at the sound of the camera going off. "We got it! Ooh look how cute you guys are! Very intimate." Haley cooed as she observed their photo. "I wish we could keep these."
Lucas got down and then helped her down as well. "Okay what next?"
"Well we could start on the bonus when we get the costumes for Saturday Night Fever. We're supposed to find a jester costume." Brooke said as they made their way back to the rental.
Lucas buckled himself in then pointed out, "She said some of them will be at a theme park. And since those close at a certain time…"
"True. The last ones we can do in our hotel room. But first let's get the most uncomfortable things off the list." Brooke then punched in the closet sex shop.
~x~
"I can't believe that I'm standing in a place like this." Haley said in mild shame as they walked around Adam and Eve adult superstore, passing by dildos and pornography. "What are we looking for anyway?"
"We're looking for penis candles and rainbow peckers." Brooke answered, eyes searching every shelf.
The men remained in the car, too embarrassed to be caught inside the risque shop, knowing anyone would automatically assume that they were going to purchase porn movies. Or worse that the two couples were into some kinky stuff.
"So why did you agree on my behalf?"
"I once overheard someone say "you're always one decision away from a totally different life" let that sink in…I made that decision for us because you know we could always use the money. And honestly I have my eye on someone and I need to see where it goes."
Haley walked beside her, her face flaming red at the material of the store. "You mean Lucas don't you?"
Brooke bit her lip then said, "What can I say? Lucas….my tongue desperately wants to hike that trail. But he wanted to play hard to get. Little does he know I invented the game."
"So that's what was going on earlier?"
"More or less." Brooke said then gasped as she spotted the items they needed, "Ooh there they are!"
"Why in earth would she list these?" Haley asked as she frowned in disgust as she tried to touch as little of the candles ad possible.
Brooke laughed at the sight then said, "They haven't been used Haley and they're definitely not used in the way that you're thinking."
"You don't know that! People try out their products all the time."
"Haley a candle? You expect a person to really shove a candle in—"
Haley looked around and hissed, "Shh you're talking too loud!"
"Haley it's just kicks." she then laughed at her friends disgusted expression, "Notu those kicks but for shits and giggles. Not sexual stimulation." Brooke said as she gathered a pack of six rainbow pecker pops and put it in the basket. "You know what I'm going to get something that I saw on the way in."
"What for?"
Brooke chuckled as she picked up the item she wanted and put it in the basket, "What do you think?"
"Ew I so don't want to know."
The two walked up to the counter and saw a girl with purple and blue hair and a bored smile, "Sorry for the inconvenience but our system is down so we have to punch the items in manually."
"That's fine. Do what you have to…Fiona." Brooke said with understanding after reading her name tag, knowing how computerized cash registers could be from experience with their cafe.
"Okay so 13.69 for the candle. 6.36 for the lollipop. 44.99 for the Spellbound Wave. 1.55 in tax…" The cashier punched into the calculator. "So that'll be 66.59. Would you like these in the same bag?" Fiona said with a smile.
"No separate please. The candles and lollipops in one bag and the vibrator in the other." Brooke smiled and handed the money to the cashier, "Hey quick question."
"Yes ma'am?" Fiona asked as she bagged the items.
"Do you ever try out the products in this store?" she asked seriously, hiding her amusement expertly, knowing full well that it would make Haley uncomfortable.
"Oh God." Haley put her hand to her face and groaned with embarrassment.
~x~
"How long does it take to get two items?" Lucas asked, drumming his fingers on the dashboard, bored out of his mind.
"They have to find the shit Luke. And I'm pretty sure they have a lot of merchandise look through in there."
Lucas looked at his brother then asked sarcastically, "You know from experience Nate?"
Nathan popped him in the head as Lucas laughed, "No, you ass! I'm just saying."
"There they are." Lucas said as he spotted Haley speed walking towards their direction with a cackling Brooke behind her carrying two bags.
"Haley you drive. I'm tired of driving." Brooke said still laughing as she got in the backseat.
"I can not believe you asked that." Haley said, her face flaming red.
Brooke laughed anew and said, "I didn't think the answer would be yes! Nor did I think she would give us a visual to last a lifetime."
"You shouldn't have asked at all it was none of our business!" she said as she backed out of the parking spot.
Nathan looked at the tense way Haley was driving then asked, "What happened in there?"
"Haley's peeved because I asked a simple question."
"She asked if the personnel use any of the merchandise. And let's just say she went into more details than either of us were prepared for." Haley said tensely.
Brooke grinned and leaned back, "Hell she taught me some things. Made me want to buy all the things she referred."
"Really Brooke!" Nathan guffawed, unable to believe that she was still the same fun loving person she was in high school.
She shrugged, "What can I say? I was curious."
Lucas shook his head then looked at the brunette, "Wow…must've made quite an impression."
Her brow lifted flirtatiously and flashed her dimples with a saucy smile "Oh it did. I may even try it out tonight after all this."
"What exactly did she say?"
Brooke winked then said, "Wouldn't you like to know?"
Haley shook her head, her eyes on the road. "I wish I didn't know."
"What do we have already?"
"We have four items off the list. Polaroid camera, vintage Winnie the Pooh set, the rainbow peckers, and penis candles." Brooke said as she scratched off the items they completed. "We're up by 160 points so far. And it's just one o'clock."
"Lunch time! We should really get something to eat because I'm starving."
"I'm down with that." Lucas chimed in.
Nathan grinned, "It's settled."
"Ooh we can do the One Small Step For Man video at the restaurant." Brooke said with a slight bounce.
"Nathan that's your bid." Lucas volunteered with a smirk.
Brooke looked at her old friend, "Yeah it's your turn Hotshot."
Nathan rolled his eyes, "Yeah yeah…"
Haley turned left and parked into the Denny's since that was the first one to come up. As she cut off the car she looked behind her with a grin saying, "You're on filming duty this time Tigger."
"Fine. Give me your phone."
Haley brows furrowed in confusion as they all exited the vehicle, "Why?"
"It makes sense for me to record on your phone so we don't turn in multiple phones when it comes to giving it to Rachel to review the videos." Brooke pointed out as she stood beside her best friend.
"Good point. Okay here." Haley said, handing over her Galaxy phone.
Brooke quickly found the camera and said, "Alright I'm all set on this!"
"That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind." Nathan quoted as he slowly made his way inside the restaurant as if he were in space. Brooke grinned as she held Haley's phone and recorded Nathan entering the heavenly smelling eatery.
Lucas stood beside her and wanted to laugh but held it in long enough for her to end the video. "That was priceless!"
Brooke chuckled as she entered the restaurant just behind Nathan, "I agree. I'm going to send this to my phone when this is all over."
"No you're going to delete it. This is for the contest or whatever the fuck it is purposes only."
"Okay…Whatever you say Hotshot." she said as the group stopped in front of the hostess podium.
"Welcome to Denny's how many in your party?" A lovely girl with bright green eyes, red hair and a caramel complexion said with a bright smile.
"Just us four." Nathan said with a smile.
"Okay…Table or booth?" Dee Dee, the hostess asked, her eyes squarely on Haley.
"Um we'll take a booth if you have one available." Haley answered as she tucked her hair behind her ears.
"Sure do. Follow me please." she said before grabbing four menus and four silverware wrapped in napkins from her station and leading them to their designated booth near the back by the left window. She allowed the foursome to sit down after she set their menus and silverware down neatly. She then grabbed her pen and order sheet from her apron and asked, "What would you like to drink?"
"I would like to have a Sprite." Haley answered, having taken the inside seat.
"I'll take a Mango Lemonade." Brooke replied, sitting directly across from her friend.
Dee Dee jotted down their drink orders then asked, "And what for you fellas?"
"Root beer for me." Nathan said with a friendly smile.
Lucas looked at the drink choices and said, "I'll have the Minute maid Premium Berry Blend."
"Alright your server Stacy will be back with your drinks. Enjoy your meal." she then walked back to the podium.
Lucas watched as his brother look at Haley with an emotion he had never seen him look at his former fiance and felt prompted to ask, "How did this happen?"
"How did what happen?"
"You and Haley…I get that you had drinks and talked and made out but HOW did you get to the making out?"
"Why do you wanna know? You need pointers?" Nathan teased.
Lucas kicked his shin then said "No I'm just curious."
"Okay…we did talk a bit, getting to know each other and walking outside under the stars. We joked around a bit but when I was telling her how gorgeous she looked under them and we ended up kissing. And we couldn't stop once we started—"
"We did stop at one point." Haley said with a blush.
"Yeah she's not the one night stand type. And I admire that about her."
Taking offense Brooke quickly said, "There's nothing wrong with one night stands. There's no muss no fuss. It's better in my opinion."
"But don't you find that lifestyle empty? Don't you want more?" Lucas asked as he stared into her eyes.
"Sometimes…" she admitted seriously, then grinned mischievously as she said, "but then I think of all the messed up relationships people get into because they feel lonely then I thank my lucky stars that I'm not in one."
"You're going to have to allow someone in one day so that you can be loved properly."
Brooke felt those words deep in her heart but smiled and said, "One day I will but he would have to be a helluva guy to put up with me."
A perky blonde with a tray of drinks stepped in front of their booth. "Hi my names Stacy and I am your server. Have you decided yet?" she said as she gave each their drink accurately.
"Yes I'll have the Grilled Tuscan chicken sandwich." Haley said as she handed her menu to the server.
"I'll go with the Mega Philly cheese melt." Lucas said before handing his menu over.
Nathan winked before handing his own over, "I want the Bacon Avocado cheeseburger."
"Yeah I want the Pot Roast Melt please." Brooke said with a smile as she handed her menu over as well. "Thank you."
"Okay one grilled Tuscan chicken, one mega Philly cheese melt, one bacon avocado cheeseburger and one pot roast melt…is that right?"
"That's right."
She sent them a bright smile and said, "Alright I'll be back with your order."
"Okay we still have the bonus list to get through so any ideas where to look?" Haley asked as soon as the waitress walked away.
"We can try the mall and see if they have anything." Brooke suggested.
"Well the list did say theme parks…" Lucas said leaving the rest to be guessed.
"Yeah but which one?" Haley asked before sipping on her drink.
Nathan leaned forward, "It's obvious. We go to Universal. They would have the best merchandise. I doubt Disney has anything Rachel's interested in."
Haley nodded, "Okay we'll try Universal first then if we find nothing then we go to the mall."
"Sounds like a plan to me." Brooke grinned.
~x~
An hour later the group were outside the park and saw a few shops to look around in. Before Lucas could suggest splitting up Brooke grabbed Haley and went into one of the shops. Lucas and Nathan had no choice but to go towards another one and begin their search.
"I think I found the key chain!" Nathan said as he showed Lucas what he found.
"That doesn't say the phrase we're looking for. It has to say The next adventure begins now. That says—"
"Welcome to Jurassic Park…alright. We'll keep looking." Nathan said, sounding a bit frustrated.
Lucas combed through the shelves and jewelry display and almost shouted when he spotted something on the list. He quickly grabbed it and went back to searching.
After combing the place thoroughly Lucas paid for his findings and went to find Nathan who was eyeing a jacket. "Yo I found the earrings."
"Dude I need this jacket…"
"Dude FOCUS! Did you find anything in here?"
Nathan grabbed then jacket and began walking to the cashier station. "I found a shot glass."
"Does it say anything on it?" he asked as they got in line which wasn't that long. Thank God.
"It's The Simpsons." Nathan said as he handed him the glass.
Lucas grinned and read it out loud, "Moe's Tavern, Springfield USA, "Drink up chumps" Ha! Rachel would love that."
"I'm gonna text Hales and tell her what we found so far." he said, taking out his phone and shooting a quick text to the girl that he couldn't stop thinking about.
"You have her number?"
Nathan looked at his brother as of he were an idiot, "Of course I have her number dumbass! How else would I be able to text her?"
"Good point." he said, wondering what it would take for him to get Brooke's phone number.
"What are you brooding about now?"
"How did you and Haley get so close so fast? You just met yesterday."
Nathan smiled, "I don't know. We talk and talk about a lot of shit. Some of the things that interests her and she would listen—and I mean really listen to what I am interested in. Which at the moment is her. All of her."
"Were you and Brooke close back in high school?"
Nathan turned to him and answered, "Yeah we were. But if you're trying to figure her out. Good luck. The girls a Rubik's cube. Just when you think you have her pinned down she goes and shows you something else."
Lucas chuckled humorlessly, "I'm finding that out."
"I will say this though…she has the biggest heart around. She's just very careful with it."
Lucas nodded, "I sense that. And honestly there's something about her that makes me want to tear down those walls but we just met and she's…stubborn."
"Yeah but so are you." Nathan felt his phone vibrate and saw that she messaged him back. "Cool she said that they found a necklace with Rachel's name on it and that they'll meet us by the entrance."
Lucas watched Nathan grab his purchases and vegan walking out. "We should go in the park and have some fun before we leave."
"I'm so down with that!" Nathan said with excitement.
Lucas laughed then admitted, "I am too. Hell, why do you think I suggested it?"
Nathan laughed with him even as they met up with the two girls. "Hey! We were just talking about you." Haley said with a smile as he casually slung an arm over her shoulders.
"Were you? About what?"
"We were actually hoping to take another break and have some fun while we're here. " Brooke piped, her eyes sliding over to Lucas. "I mean it would be a total waste if we didn't ride at least ride two or three rides."
"Great minds think alike. We were just saying that too."
"And we were saying that since we have a limited time together we could just pair off… Nathan and I will go on rides while Brooke and you can do the same."
Brooke shrugged but inside she was a little confused by this sudden lie Haley told but she didn't want to rat her out so she smiled and agreed.
"Where should we go first?" Haley asked after paying for their express passes and snagging a map of the park.
Nathan peered over her should at the rides then answered, "I want on the double Dragon. It looks awesome."
"Omg they have a Jurassic ride here! Let's go on that! Plus it's closer!" Brooke pointed out, practically bouncing with excitement.
"Okay Haley and I will go towards the double Dragon while you guys do whatever. We can text each other then meet up by the entrance like we did earlier."
"Alright see you guys later." Lucas said waving them off. He then put his arm around Brooke as they walked side by side towards the ride they both were more interested in. "This whole day felt like a date right? Please tell me that I'm not the only one that feels that way."
Brooke inclined her head then admitted, "We had our moments where it felt a little…date-like…but unfortunately it's not a date."
Lucas halted her then asked her, "What if we make it one right now?"
Brooke smiled and said, "See I don't—"
"Brooke I want to know you. And I know you want to know me—we already took the first step earlier with the Q and A game."
"True…and you're right I am very curious about you but does that mean I want to risk dating you? I'm not sure."
"Why not? Give me a good reason."
"Because love is gambling, not with money but with your heart. You can always get money back, but you might not get your heart back."
"That's a good one…but let me ask you this…would you rather live a life of regrets or would you prefer to live life to the fullest?"
Brooke smirked, "I always strive to live life to the fullest."
"And you will be…if you accept."
Brooke playfully rolled her eyes then said, "Okay! Fine! This is a date. But just this once! Now can we go? I want to get going."
"Yeah we will but first…"
Lucas kissed her in a way that made her want to melt on the spot. She sighed, her eyes closing as she kissed him back, feeling him bring her closer to his solid body. She shivered and found her arms wrapping around his neck, her fingers losing themselves in his soft blond hair.
Brooke let out a small soft moan, breaking their kiss with clear reluctance. "I think you have a habit of kissing me Lucas Scott."
He looked at her with a dazed expression, his eyes were smoky with desire. "It's a habit I don't ever want to break Brooke Davis."
"We wouldn't be able to get anything done if you keep that up." she said as they began walking again. "And need I remind you that this will be the only date?"
"We'll see about that."
After a full few hours of riding the most intense rides in the park. The couple even purchased a few embarrassing photos of them screaming their heads off as they hit the steep drop, Lucas being the one with his eyes closed with his veins popping out on his neck. Brooke looked absolutely terrified holding on for dear life. Especially when the T-rex popped out of nowhere on the Jurassic ride. The two even got a bit wet, the spitting dinosaur having spit water in their faces on the way to the up.
"That was insane!" Lucas laughed as they exited the Incredible Hulk ride.
"You said it wouldn't be that bad! I'm never listening to you again!" she said with a breathless laugh. She then spotted the time and winced, "Ooh we need to go. The mall won't stay open for long and we still have to find two items on the bonus list and a 70s costume for one of the challenges."
"Alright I'll text Nate." he said pulling out his phone.
Brooke led him to a nearby bench and watched his fingers type out a message. He looked so cute with his concentration face on. She bit her lip then gave into the urge to surprise him with a kiss. Lucas halted what he was in the process of doing and kissed her back, allowing her to control it, his heart pounding faster than when he was on the rides.
"What was that for?"
Brooke shrugged then said, "I just really wanted to."
Lucas laughed lightly then asked, "What am I going to do with you?"
"What did Nathan say?" she asked, effectively changing the subject.
He looked at his messages then said, "He and Haley are heading towards the entrance now."
"I hate to leave but—six million is on the line."
"We can always come back at a later time."
"You meant Haley and I will." she said pointedly, sending him a humorous look.
Lucas looked at her with a self assured smile, "No I meant we."
Brooke shook her head in mock disapproval, "There's that 'we' again."
"Admit it you actually like me." Lucas said with a satisfied sigh.
She refused to smile, not wanting to show him that he was indeed right. "I cannot confirm nor deny that allegation at this time."
"Oh really? Cannot confirm nor deny huh? Well tell me Brooke why is it that when I kiss you that you never pull away? In fact you initiated a couple yourself—"
"I'm a spontaneous person! And how can I keep you from kissing me? It's not my fault you find me irresistible!"
Lucas watched her as they walked through the crowd then stated, "But you find me just as irresistible. Admit it."
Not wanting to give him an inch she said, "Let's just find Naley alright."
"Naley? Who is that?"
"Nathan and Haley. Their names combined makes Naley. Much like—"
"Lurooke?"
Brooke frowned, "What?"
He paused and replied, "That's what our names would be when put together. Lurooke."
"Ew no if anything our names together would be Brucas not whatever that was." she said as she continued walking.
He rushed to catch up to her then smiled, "So you've been thinking about it."
Brooke rolled her eyes, "Okay so maybe I did—briefly."
"I'm getting to you."
"After a day? I doubt it." she lied as she punched into her phone the nearest costume shop. "Next place to go is Party City. Which is 12 minutes from here. All we have to do now is find Naley and get out of here."
~x~
"I can not believe that we have to do this." Haley said back at their suite as she adjusted her light and dark blue groovy disco costume that was too short in her opinion, complete with white gogo boots and matching blue headband.
"Stop complaining. You look really cute!" Brooke said as she fixed her hair. Brooke was wearing a pink blue and orange disco diva costume that was also a bit short but obviously she didn't mind it, complete with white gogo boots, matching headband and pink glasses with large white hoop earrings that Haley opted out on. "Besides this is the last challenge we have to do."
"That Friends one was kind of fun."
Brooke laughed then asked, "Even though Lucas's voice could kill someone's eardrums?"
"Speaking of…did anything new happen between you and Lucas?"
"We kissed a few times…" she then smiled fondly, "You know, he's the first guy that seems to be after my heart and not what's under my skirt. And honestly I don't know how to handle it."
"Take things slow. Find out if his intentions are what they're supposed to be. But I know Lucas…and I'm sure that they are. He's a good one Brooke."
Brooke frowned as she whined, "But I'm used to bad boys Haley! I am completely out of my depth with him."
Haley smiled kindly, "Try going with the flow. Don't fight whatever it is that's building between you. Because from what I see you're already into him."
"I am. I'm trying to fight it but…he's literally too hot for words and I am so losing this fight. Which has never happened to me before."
"Dare I assume that you're considering—"
A knock interrupted their little discussion, "Knock knock! You ladies ready?" Lucas asked through the door.
"Yeah! Just give us a minute." Brooke said, her belly erupting with butterflies at the sound of his deep voice.
"Okay…hurry up this shirt is kind of itchy. We're doing the Hustle right?"
"Yep we're definitely doing the Hustle. It's the only seventies dance I know how to do besides the Electric Slide." she then turned to Haley and asked, "Ready to record this ultra embarrassing video?"
"Ready as I'll ever be. Let's do this." When they stepped out of the room and saw Nathan they both laughed hard.
Nathan wore a bad fake mustache with a black curly fro and a gold chain with a multi colored disco shirt with platform loafers and black Bell bottoms.
"You look like the 70s threw up all over you!" Brooke snickered.
"Blame Lucas. He picked it out." he said as he glared at his brother. "The sooner we get this over with the sooner I can take this crap off."
Haley positioned her camera to film them sideways as Brooke put on the music.
"To my surprise, one hundred stories high People getting loose y'all, getting down on the roof Folks are screaming, out of control It was so entertaining when the boogie started to explode…" the Trammps sang.
Brooke faced Lucas as they squared off, circling each other at first but then began to dance together, Lucas movements a bit stiff but still watchable. Brooke laughed as they danced.
"I heard somebody say
disco inferno(Burn baby burn) burn that mother down
(Burn baby burn) disco inferno
(Burn baby burn) burn that mother down"
"Okay switch!" Brooke shouted then Haley and Nathan jumped into the camera view and started dancing to what they considered was disco dancing. It was awkward but fun to watch.
When the song ended Brooke saved the video and then said, "I have a confession to make."
"What is it?" Nathan asked, now sitting down on the couch.
"The challenge reads: Saturday Night Fever - Take a video of a team member performing their best disco moves. Bonus points for costumes! All of us didn't have to dress up."
"You gotta be kidding me!" Nathan shouted, shaking his head.
~x~
That's the end of the longest chapter I've ever written. Tell me what you think please see ya next chapter