Disclaimer: I don't own One Tree Hill.

Author's Note: Do we even need to mention the year 2020?... No...Okay... Let's hope that 2021 is kind to us. I hope you all are staying safe. Happy New Year to you. So, let's jump into it.

I'm thinking I should go back and edit the story a little bit; not really change it, but tweak it a little. I believe my writing has improved over the years, and when I go back and re-read the chapters, I always find mistakes and things I think I should've written better. I need you, my loyal readers to tell me if I should tweak it a bit, or leave it as the same crazy story you've come to know and love. Also, I'm looking forward to a lot of communication between myself and all of you. I respond to all messages that you send me, but I would also like to interact through instagram. extra0rdinaryfanfiction is the page. It's been up for like 2 years, I just wasn't using it much. But, I will be very active on there now. On that page, you'll get sneak peeks of chapters, vote on ideas for chapters and new stories, tell me to hurry up and update, and so much more!

This story has taken me on a ride throughout the years, emotionally and physically (there were nights and a few early mornings when I would stay up and just make myself write until I came up with something. Insomnia is no joke.) But I feel like this story is my 1st real whole story that I've ever written. Forget my Instant Star story, that's not even finished.

I'm saying all of that to say this, Thank You So Much for your support, whether you read a chapter, posted a comment, favorite or follow, or sent me messages in my inbox (I do read all of those.) Thank You, Thank You, And Again, Thank You. I'm Back and I'm Here To Stay.

And one more thing...I was an absolute disaster when my brother passed away. I'm not ashamed to say it. I was going to post an author's note and act like everything was cool, but there's no other way around it. He was my big brother and my best friend. He was the best part of me. And I miss him every day. He's my motivation and I thank him for it. Love you Big Bro.

I don't want you all to feel like you can't say anything, or worry about being insensitive. I can handle all the questions, comments, and concerns that you have for me. I can handle it. I feel like we've built a friendship over the almost nine years since I've been writing this story.

Woah!!! 9 years? Has it been that long? You know what, that's enough author's note for me. Let's get to the story. I hope you enjoy!

...

Chapter 19

Haley's day was eventful to say the least. After a long day of teaching, she spent the rest of the day in the studio with Peyton and the band. She and Peyton had a long talk about everything; from managing music to maintaining friendships, current and somewhat estranged.

Flashback To A Few Hours Earlier

"Oh." She said as she realized who was calling. She showed Lucas, it was Peyton. He quickly backed away from the phone. He didn't have time for this. "I'll talk to you later." Then he left. Haley answered her phone before it went to voicemail.

"Hey Peyton."

"Hi Haley, I'm sorry, I know you're just getting off work, but I really need your help." Peyton sounded desperate.

"What's going on?"

"Well, you know the band I signed?"

"Yes?"…After Peyton told Haley everything that's going on with Mia, Haley agreed to help. She felt obligated to help Mia, especially since the leader of the band was an ass!" And she had experience in dealing with egotistical rock stars. Haley cringed as thoughts of Chris Keller began to surface. She shook it off and headed to the studio.

...

Haley arrived at the studio shortly after Peyton called her. She sat in her car for a bit, skeptical about going in there.

Even though Haley and Peyton were friends, ever since Brooke came back, things were a little awkward.

Over the four years that Brooke was away, Haley and Peyton developed a friendship. It didn't come easy at first, what with Haley being upset with Lucas for cheating on Brooke, and upset with Peyton for being the girl he cheated with.

Haley was cautious of being friends with Peyton because if she could betray Brooke, who was her best friend since childhood; then there's no telling what she would do to her. But Peyton proved to be trustworthy and reliable. Haley reflected back on the times they were there for each other. The scary before and horrific aftermath of their high school championship game when Haley was facing a complicated pregnancy and then was hit and run over by a car. And the nightmare turned reality of psycho Derek, Peyton's half-brother, who in fact wasn't related at all; but was a crazy stalker who attacked Peyton. Yeah, they had been through a lot together.

Haley got out of the car and went in.

...

Haley walked into the studio, the music was blasting. She stood there for a few minutes, listening.

"Guys, that's great. That sounds really good. But Jason, maybe play a little bit slower to make it sound more intense ya know?" Peyton instructed.

"Sure thing." He smirks. The band starts up again, but they're still playing it the way Peyton asked them not to.

"Hey guys, I'm sorry, I think that's the same tempo." She says confused.

"Yeah, it is." Jason replied.

"Maybe I wasn't clear-"

"These are my songs Peyton." Jason interrupts her. "We play them my way! Nobody is going to change that."

Ah! So this guy is the problem. Haley thought to herself.

Peyton rolled her eyes and took a deep breath. She turned around and saw Haley standing nearby. She went over to greet her. "Thank you so much for coming." She said as she hugged Haley. "So...what do you think?"

"They sound a little rough around the edges, but there's definitely something magical there. Do you mind if I give them a few pointers?" Haley asked.

"Sure, just watch out for Jason, he's-" she didn't even finish her sentence, she just grumbled. Jason was really giving her a headache. She introduced Haley to the band and then stepped back to watch her work.

Haley went in to the recording room and sat at the piano.

"You guys sounded amazing. The hook is really great. I just think it might be a little repetitive. Maybe try to alternate your verse like this." She began playing a tune on the piano. Mia quickly repeated the tune on the keyboard.

"Yeah, exactly like that." Haley smiled. Mia was a fast learner.

"You're one of my favorite artist by the way." Mia whispered.

"Thank you." Haley was flattered, she rarely ran into people who were fans of her music, her friends excluded.

"That's great, but if it's all the same to you I think we'll do it my way." Jason scoffed.

Peyton stepped in. "I'm really liking Haley's way better."

Jason got up. "Oh, you're talking now? I thought your lesbian girlfriend was calling the shots!"

Peyton's jaw dropped. "Hey! Don't-"

Haley cut in. "I'm sorry. I really didn't mean to step on you creatively. I just have some experience-"

"With what? Playing the church organ." Jason mocked her.

"Actually, she's had a major record deal, a Billboard hit, and a sold out national tour; where as you are the lead singer of a band that plays for free beer in dive bars. So, yes you could benefit from her." Peyton stated matter of factly.

"Whatever. I'm taking a smoke break."

"No Jason, you have an hour left in the studio." Peyton reminded him.

Jason ignored her and walked out.

She looked to the rest of the band. "I guess you all can take a break now."

Some of the guys followed Jason outside. Mia, being a non-smoker, stayed inside and found a quiet place where she could write more songs.

Peyton led the way to her office as she and Haley sat down. "I'm really sorry about Jason." She apologized.

"It's okay, I've worked with self-centered musicians before. Chris Keller ring a bell?"

"Only his own." They both laughed.

"So, have you heard from Lucas lately?" Peyton asked. She figured she would pick her brain and figure out what was going on with Lucas. If anyone knew anything, it would be his best friend.

"I hear from him every now and again. Why?"

"Because he's being distant lately. Maybe it's because we're engaged, and I just want him to be closer, but-"

"Wait, what?! You're engaged?" Haley asked in shock.

Peyton looked confused. "Lucas didn't tell you?"

"No. I guess he hadn't gotten around to it yet." Haley looked at Peyton's hand, and there was a ring on her finger.

Peyton nervously chewed her lip, wondering what Haley's reaction would be. She wasn't stupid, she knew things were awkward since Brooke returned, but she hoped things would get back to normal; especially with her and Lucas. And she hoped their friends would be happy for them.

Haley sensed her nervousness. She reached over and hugged her. "Congratulations."

"Thank you." Peyton said. She took a deep breath. "Okay, so back to the band. I don't know what to do with Jason. He acts like this all the time. He's wasting studio time. He doesn't take criticism or instruction well. What do I do?"

"Don't give up. The music is what matters. And I definitely hear something special with this band."

"I know what you mean and this is it. This is what you hear." Peyton said as she pulled up a snippet of a song. "I caught her just singing by herself. She didn't know the room was being recorded." Peyton pressed play.

Haley listened to the music, enjoying the melody. "This is amazing! Who is it?" She asked.

"This is Mia."

"Who is Mia?"

"The girl on the keyboard."

"Well there it is. There's your artist.

"But I can't break up the band."

"She's got something special and her spark is being squashed by that ass of a singer." Haley said referring to Jason.

The break was over and everyone was standing around waiting for Jason. They couldn't play the song without him. Well, they could, but they didn't want to face his wrath. "Where is he? I thought you guys were outside with him." Peyton asked one of the band members.

They just shrugged, knowing not to question Jason about his whereabouts. After another 40 minutes, Jason came strolling in, a little high and a little tipsy.

"Jason you can't keep doing this." Peyton said.

"Doing what?" He scoffed.

"Being late. Studio time costs money and it's by the hour."

"So! It's not my money."

"You're not going to become a rockstar by having a few decent melodies. You have to have hard work and dedication."

"Whatever."

"Alright, you know what? You can go." Peyton told him.

"I can go?"

"Yes. I'm dismissing you from the band. You are not needed any longer."

"You're dismissing me from my own band?"

"Yes; only it's not your band anymore. I just kicked you out!" Peyton stood firmly.

"We'll see about that!" He gathered his things. "Let's go guys. I knew we shouldn't have signed with this crappy label." The rest of the guys began leaving. He turned to his girlfriend; she wasn't moving fast enough. "Mia let's go!"

She got up, getting ready to leave.

"Mia if you stay, you're going to make a great record. I'll help you." Haley said.

Jason stepped in front of her. "Mia now!"

Mia looked conflicted. Jason was her boyfriend. And she liked being apart of the band. But she didn't like the way he treated her and the way he trashed her songs.

"Umm...I think I'm going to stay." Mia said nervously.

Jason shook his head in disappointment. "You're an idiot."

"Don't call me an idiot! And stop playing the ballads, those are mine" She said.

"You know what? You just made a big mistake. All of you!" He pointed at all the women in the room. "Later, bitches!" He spat as he left.

"Everything is going to be okay. I promise." Peyton assured her.

Mia wasn't so sure about that. She knows how Jason is. But for right now, she had a moment of peace, and she was feeling a small sliver of bravery for standing up to him. She settled in as Peyton and Haley began telling her about the music business.

...

On the way home, Haley thought about everything that transpired. Peyton confided a lot of things to her and Haley could see how stressed she was. So after leaving the studio, Haley sent Lucas a text message simply telling him to "talk to Peyton".

That resulted in Lucas calling Haley immediately to figure out what's wrong and just how much trouble he was in. Sure he'd been distant and a little secretive. He had so much going on. His head was a mess right now and so was his heart. The emotions he was feeling for Brooke and Peyton was suffocating.

The car phone began to ring and Haley pressed the talk button.

"What'd I do?" was the first thing Lucas asked.

"What do you mean?" Haley asked him back.

"You just sent me a text that said talk to Peyton. What's wrong? What did I do?"

"I wouldn't think you would have a problem talking to your fiancée." Haley said, waiting for his reply.

Lucas sighed deeply. He got up from Brooke's bedside and stepped outside of the hospital room. "So, I guess she told you."

"Yes she did, and imagine her surprise because she thought that you told me already. So, why haven't you?"

Lucas rubbed the back of his neck. "I wanted to. I really did. And we planned on telling all of you when I got back from the book tour, but everything happened so fast with Brooke; and I...I don't know. I'm sorry I didn't tell you."

"It's okay; as long as you're happy. You are happy right?" Haley asked him.

"Yeah, I'm happy." He opened the door to Brooke's room and glanced in there at her. "At least I think so." He mumbled that last part, but Haley heard the doubt in his voice loud and clear.

"Luke?"

"Yeah, sorry. So, is that it? She just wants to talk?"

"Yes. I just came from the studio and she's had a really rough day. So she just wants to talk to you."

A thought quickly ran through his mind. "You didn't tell her about Sebastian did you?" Lucas asked.

"No, that's between you and Brooke. But from your tone, I'm guessing she doesn't know about him."

"Not yet." Lucas could feel Haley judging him from the other end of the phone.

"Wow. Just...wow. You know at some point you're going to have to tell her; preferably before the wedding." Haley said sarcastically.

"Ha ha ha. We haven't even set a date yet. I still have time." He reasoned.

"Yeah, but that's just more time of you lying to her and yourself."

"Okay, I have to go."

Haley knew he was rushing her off the phone. "I know what you're doing. Don't rush me off the phone."

"Aren't you driving? You shouldn't be talking on the phone and driving. It's not safe." He said as he went back into Brooke's room.

"I'm pulling into my driveway now." Haley told Lucas.

"Glad you made it home safely, because you know how you drive." He joked, making the conversation lighter.

Haley rolled her eyes as she gathered her things and got out of the car. "I know how to drive, thank you very much!" She said with attitude.

"Tell that to the poor little squirrel you almost ran over a few weeks ago." Lucas teased.

Haley scoffed. "That thing came out of nowhere! You know what, whatever Luke. I am going inside the house and hopefully my dear husband has dinner and a bath prepared for me."

"Dinner huh? You mean roadkill." He laughed and then yawned. "I guess I need to get home too, help mom with the kids."

"I thought you were already home. It's late, where have you been?" Haley inquired.

"Uhh...just out running a few errands." Lucas didn't want anyone to know that he's been visiting Brooke so frequently.

Haley knew it was something that Lucas wasn't telling her, but she let it go, for now.

"Okay Luke, talk to you later." She hung up.

Nathan greeted her at the door with a glass of wine.

"I was wondering when you were going to come into the house." He kissed his wife.

"Sorry, I was talking to Lucas. You know how he gets." Haley kissed him back.

Nathan deepened the kiss, wrapping her up in his arms. Haley matched his intensity until they both needed to take a breath. She took a sip of wine and grinned at her husband. "What's got you all excited?"

"Well, my lovely lovely wife, I dropped Jamie off at my mom's place. So, we have this place to ourselves for the night."

"Oh how I love you." Haley marveled at her husband.

...

"This is bullshit!" Jason yelled at no one in particular. Who do those bitches think they are? Fire me?! This is my band! He slurred his words. He and the rest of the guys were drinking and smoking heavily, and he was getting angrier by the minute.

"And Mia! I can't believe she stayed; fucking traitor! She wouldn't be in the band if it wasn't for me!"

"Forget about it man." One of the guys said.

"Yeah, we're with you bro." Another one said, passing him a lighter.

Jason took a puff and exhaled. He grabbed his phone and called a familiar number. He was in need of some company of the female variety.

"Hello?" The caller said on the other end.

"What took you so long to answer the phone?" Jason asked.

"I'm sorry Jay, I was sleep." She said.

"Well, get your ass out of bed. I want you to come over."

"I can't right now. I have to-"

"Now Sam!" Then he hung up.

Sam huffed and got up. She grabbed her things and then she left to meet with Jason.

...

Author's Note: Jason and Sam? That's a shocker! Yes she is underage, and trust me I will not go there with them. It's just a little something to shake it up a bit.

Also, I uploaded a story a few months ago called "KINdergarten". It's a One Tree Hill, Brooke, Lucas, Peyton story. It's one chapter so far, but let me know if I should continue. Also, don't forget to follow extra0rdinaryfanfiction on IG.

Thank You.