A/N Hey guys I'm sorry for the late update…Cabot007 I'm sorry I know I said both 13 and 14 were going to be up Saturday but I didn't expect the busy week I had. Anyways, Thank you guys sooo much for the reviews. Seriously. It's what keeps me motivated to keep writing. Special thanks to those that have reviewed for the first time. I know most of you are dying to see what's going to happen once Brooke finds out about Nathan & Rachel, but I just wanted a bit of Brathan fluff, before the shit hits the fan so to speak, and because well I just love these two! Minor detail...I have absolutely no clue abut Country Clubs or Charity Balls.
Early the next morning Haley stood right outside the front door of Nathan's family beach house. She hesitated for just a second to gather her bearings. She still wasn't too sure about this, and she wondered for just a second if she was in fact doing the right thing.
She took a deep breath and opened the door, as she let herself in. She had made up her mind, and she wasn't going to back out now. She ignored the obvious mess in the spacious living room, stepping over empty cups and beer bottles strewn all over the floor. "Nathan?" she called out, making her way towards the stairs.
Hearing no response, she walked up the stairs figuring the boy was probably still sleeping off his hangover.
"Nathan?" she called out again, rapping on the bedroom door she knew he always crashed in.
The door swung open and Nathan appeared shirtless, squinting at her through sleepy eyes, "Haley?"
"Hey…" she started nervously, "I know you're probably wondering why I'm here so early…but, I really need to talk to you."
He grinned at her slightly, "And it couldn't wait till school tomorrow?"
"No, it can't." she motioned towards the door, "Well? Are you going to let me in or what?"
"Actually…" he trailed off, glancing over his shoulder.
"Let me guess…Brooke?"
He grinned and opened the door wider, allowing her to step inside, "It's cool. She just jumped in the shower." He walked over to the foot of the bed and plopped down, "So what's going on?"
"Um…well.." she paused, "Okay, can you please put on a shirt?"
He grinned lazily, "What?" he teased, "Too much for you?"
She rolled her eyes, "I'm sorry, but I just really don't want to have to wonder as to why Brooke's in the shower and you're shirtless…so can you please just do it?"
"We're a little grouchy this morning aren't we?" he asked her amused, "Rough night?" he retrieved the black t-shirt he'd discarded sometime last night and pulled it on, "Ohhh…" he nodded knowingly, "I know what this is about."
She looked at him in surprise, "You do?"
"Sure. Listen, Haley I heard what Felix did to you last night." He shook his head, "Fucking punk. You all right?" he glanced over at her, truly seeming interested in her response.
"Yeah..that was.." she cleared her throat, "He's a jerk. And I knew that, but I still…y'know what? It doesn't matter."
"Hell yeah it does." he scoffed, "Don't worry, Hales. I've got you covered. I'll have a little talk with that punk at school tomorrow."
She hesitated for a second as she stared at him, knowing full well that he would follow through on that threat. She swallowed and she felt her resolve wavering slightly. He obviously was standing up for her and here she was about to…she wondered for the second time that morning if she was doing the right thing. Or if it was even in her place to do so.
"Nathan…I appreciate you looking out for me. I really do." She shook her head, "But it's not necessary. Really." She paused, running her teeth over her bottom lip nervously, "That's actually not the reason for my impromptu visit."
"Okay…"
She took a deep breath, deciding to just get to the point before she lost her nerve, "Lay off Lucas." She said quickly, but firmly.
He laughed, "Yeah. Okay."
She sighed, "I'm not kidding. Yesterday you were completely out of line and you know it."
He stared back at her incredulous, "What? It was just a fucking joke! I swear, that punk is way too damn sensitive."
"Yeah, well, it wasn't funny." She retorted, "And it's way more than just that. I'm talking about the other underhanded things you've done to him. Like trashing his locker, the river court…kidnapping him…Don't you think you've taken this rivalry a little too far?"
"And what are you? His damn body guard?" he rolled his eyes, "The little punk can't even fight his own battles can he?"
She ignored the dangerous tone to his voice, standing her ground, "How can you be so cold? For God's sake Nathan he's your-"
"Don't fucking say it!" he shook his head angrily, "When the hell did this happen? When did you start standing up for the bastard? I wasn't aware the two of you were even friends." he paused as a look of sheer realization crossed his features, "Wait.." he laughed, "What. The. Hell….You like this punk don't you?"
She blushed, "What?" she shook her head, "No..it..look does it even matter? What you're doing is wrong and you know it."
He looked back at her in utter disbelief, "This is unbelievable. You do, don't you?" he shook his head and let out a sound of disgust, "What could you possibly see in that loser?" he demanded.
She chose to ignore his last remark, "I mean it Nathan. " she said firmly. "Leave him alone."
He crossed his arms over his chest and stared at her through narrowed eyes, "And if I don't?"
"If you don't…" she took a deep breath, "Then I'm going to tell Brooke all about your little tryst with Rachel." She said slowly.
His mouth dropped open slightly and he stared at her in complete awe. He seriously wasn't hearing this right now, "She'll never believe you." was the quick automatic reply.
"Why would she ever doubt her best friend?"
"Why would she ever doubt her boyfriend?" he shot back.
"Oh, I don't know…maybe because you haven't exactly been the perfect boyfriend. Wouldn't be too hard to believe!" she retorted. She paused, her eyes boring into his, "Besides, I have hard evidence. I never deleted the picture from my phone. I forgot."
He scoffed, "Yeah, I'm sure you did. Besides...you wouldn't dare."
She sighed, "Nathan, please don't. … look I didn't want it to have to come to this. But you leave me no choice."
"I leave you no choice?!" he stood up from the bed and stood directly in front of her, "You know…you have a lot of fucking nerve Haley. Coming to my house and threatening me with this shit." He replied angrily, "What? This punk means that much to you?"
She stared back up at him, refusing to let his dangerous tone get to her, "Nathan…" she said calmly, "This has nothing to do with that."
He scoffed, "Yes, it fucking does! Because, you haven't exactly denied any of it. I can't believe this. You're turning your back on me to help that bastard?" he spat, "How long have you known him huh? And how long have you known me? You really going to turn your back on that for someone you barely know?"
"I'm not turning my back on you!"
"Well, what else do you call it huh?"
"He's my friend!" she threw up her hands exasperated, "And you're my friend too and as your friend I hate to see you-"
"Bullshit." he spat, "I have a hard fucking time believing that right now."
"I'm not choosing sides Nathan…" she said a little more softly now, "I just hate to see you be so cruel towards your own brother."
He slammed his fist down on the dresser besides him, "I told you not to call him that!" his eyes flashed furiously. "Believe what you want Haley, but it doesn't change the fact that you're a fucking traitor!"
"What's going on?!"
They both swiveled around startled to find Brooke staring at them at a complete loss. She had no idea what was going on. She had emerged from the restroom after a long hot shower, only to find her best friend and boyfriend looking like they were about to rip each other's head off.
"What's going on?" she repeated, walking over to stand in front of them , "What are you doing here Tutor girl? And what the hell were you two arguing about?"
"Nothing." Nathan said caustically, turning his cold, angry glare back towards the blonde, "Haley, was just leaving."
"No. Uh-uh." Brooke looked between them, "Not until you two tell me what's going on."
"Actually, Brooke…" she darted a quick glance at Nathan, "I came here to see you. See, there's something I wanted to-"
"Look, Felix pulled some crap on her yesterday." Nathan cut her off quickly, making his mind up on the spot. At the moment, he had no choice really. "But I got it covered. " he said turning back to the blonde, his eyes shooting her a meaningful look, "I'll make sure, he doesn't bother you anymore. I'll deal with him…okay?"
She nodded in silent understanding and she shot Brooke a quick smile, "I'm sorry…I was just really upset and I wanted to talk to you…and.." she turned back towards the tall brunette, "I'm okay now…and thanks again." she gave his arm a reassuring squeeze.
He shrugged her off subtly and looked away, afraid if he looked at her a second too longer, he would lose it in front of Brooke.
Haley sighed and turned back to Brooke, "I'll call you later okay?"
"Yeah…sure." She gave her a quick hug, not really sure just what had transpired between the two.
Brooke turned her curious glance to her boyfriend once Haley left, "Superstar? You okay? You still seem really put off."
He sat back down on the bed, "Well, what can I say? Felix is a jerk." He replied indifferently.
She smiled and stepped in between his legs, wrapping her arms loosely around his neck. "Well, I think it's really sweet, the way you're standing up for Haley." She leaned down to kiss him quickly, "Have I ever told you that you're the best boyfriend ever? And a good friend too." She played with the hairs at the nape of his neck, grinning down at him lovingly.
He flinched involuntarily and took a deep breath, brushing off the slight pang of guilt her words caused. Because if she really knew what he and Haley had been talking about…
He pushed it to the back of his mind as he secured his left arm around her waist, his right one reaching out to entangle in her freshly washed hair, "Babe…" he murmured, "Let's go outside for a swim okay?"
She pouted, "But I just took a shower…" she leaned down and brushed her lips over his sensually, settling herself in his lap, "Okay, fine you win."
"Nathan!" Brooke squealed with laughter as he scooped her up easily in his arms and ran towards the water's edge. "I swear if you ruin my Jax Couture, I'm going to kill you!" she struggled against him, but she really wasn't trying.
He laughed as he reached the water and glanced down at her mischievously when he was in waist deep, "Looks like you're going in for a swim after all Babe."
"Nathan!" she was cut off as a wave rolled in and knocked them off balance. They both tumbled down into the water and a few seconds later they resurfaced.
"You jerk!" she sputtered, sending a huge splash his way.
He laughed and waded over to her. He stood in front of her and pushed the wet strands of hair out of her face, "You look like a sea princess…" he grinned, tugging at the wet Caribbean print sundress that now clinged to her body. He leaned down and kissed her.
She grinned against his lips and entangled her arms around his neck. His lips were wet and salty and just felt so, so good.
They stood there for several minutes, kissing while the waves crashed around them. After a while, he relunctantly pulled away from her and threaded his fingers through hers, "Let's go dry you off sea princess…" he teased, "We don't want you to melt."
"Well, who's fault would that be?" she pouted as they reached their towels a couple of yards away.
She stripped off her wet sundress, revealing her brand new Emilio Pucci two piece. She squeezed the water out of her hair and sat back down next to him.
They were quiet for several minutes as they each lay there, enjoying the sun and the fresh breeze.
"Nathan…" she began conversationally, "The Annual Commissioners Charity Ball is coming up…"
He groaned as he opened his eyes to look over at her, "Do you have to remind me? My mom's been bugging me about that for weeks."
She shot him a confused look, "I thought your mom was off in one of her business trips."
"That doesn't mean, she can't harass me over the phone with it. Besides, who do you think is behind the whole thing?" he grumbled. "God, those things are so stupid. I mean, I get the whole principle of the thing, but…" he shrugged, "What's it about this year anyway?"
She shrugged, "Something about the junior leagues, I don't know. I really wasn't paying attention when Victoria was rambling about it the other day."
He held back a laugh at her insistence to call her mother by her first name, "Well…hey" he leaned up on his elbow as his hand reached out to caress her cheek, "I know there's no getting out of it, but at least we'll have each other to make it less sufferable right?"
She played with his short locks affectionately as she smiled at him softly, a memorey coming back to her just then, "Do you remember the Crystal Charity Ball for Diabetes freshmean year?"
"How could I forget?" he stared off into the water, a grin playing across his lips, "That's when we first became us."
Flashback
Dressed to kill in a tailored champagne colored Cordell Couture, 15-year old Brooke Davis trekked down the lush green grounds of the Tree Hill Country Club. She spotted the small gazebo a few yards away and walked over to it, as fast as her Louboutin's would carry her.
Once inside she sat down in one of the long wooden benches and exhaled as she took a swig of the expensive bottle of wine she had taken upon herself to snag on the way out of the elegant main ballroom. She was sick and tired of having to smile and nod and pretend to know what the hell they were all talking about. Or pretend to care about why they were even there.
It's not like any of them did anyway. It wasn't about helping the needy or raising profit for just causes. No, she knew it wasn't about that at all. It was about flaunting your money and your status. And how it was their obligation as the elite and fortunate of Tree Hill to give back to the community, because they were all just sooo grateful for what they had. Please. What a bunch of hypocrites. She knew better. She really could care less about any of these causes. She just wanted to go and hang out with her best friend Haley. Convince her to sneak into her mother's secret alcohol stash. Or something equally crazy. Hell, anything was better than this.
At least she was honest.
Besides, the only good thing that ever came out of these events was the fact that her parents always lavished her with designer gowns and shoes that she herself got to pick out. After all, she was the daughter of Richard and Victoria Davis. One of Tree Hill's top socialites. She had to look the part.
"Well if it isn't my sweet little date having her own private party, care if I crash it?"
She looked up and found Nathan Scott smirking at her. She had been so lost in her thoughts, she hadn't even heard him approaching.
"Well, it isn't so private anymore is it?" she retorted bringing the bottle up to her lips and taking a long swig.
He let out a whistle as he looked down at the bottle she cradled with both hands, "Château Lafitte…" he nodded, "I'm impressed Davis. Didn't think you had it in you."
"Maybe there's a lot of things you didn't know I had in me Scott."
"Ooohh…" he grinned, "That sounds kinky."
"Whatever." She passed the bottle over to him as he draped himself next to her. "What brings you out here?"
He tilted his head back slightly as he guzzled down the sweet wine, "Probably for the same reasons you are."
She nodded, taking back the bottle from his hands, "So you got tired of walking around with a fake smile and pretending to actually give a damn about this too?"
"It's not so bad. There's just better things I'd rather be doing."
"Like Taylor James?" she asked innocently.
He shot her a smug grin, "I see you keep yourself up to date with my life."
"It's hard not to. Tree Hill High is not that big. And you my dear, are this week's top story." She peered at him through curious eyes, "So, tell me..how did little freshman Nathan Scott, get the most popular senior to do the deed with him?"
"Please." He scoffed, "Those days are over. I'm not so little anymore." He slung an arm around the back of the bench casually, "Do you really want me to tell you how I snagged Taylor? Or would you rather I show you?" he asked in an enticing tone.
She ignored the slight shiver that ran up her spine and smirked at him, "Please. Old tricks." She giggled, "Y'know, Haley was totally freaking out when she found out."
"Oh really?" he smirked, "I always knew she wanted me."
She rolled her eyes and took back the bottle from him. They had been passing it back and forth like a hot potato by now and it was her turn. "You wish. More like she couldn't believe that the Nathan Scott she grew up with is now banging her sister. Her much older sister, no less. I mean, Cougar much?"
"Jealous." he teased.
"Insanely." She smiled sweetly. "Besides, you and Taylor? It's just temporary. Because everyone knows you and I are going to be ruling Tree Hill High next year. Together." She added, with a faint lilt to her voice.
"Oh really?" he asked her in an amused tone
"Of course." She smiled up at him, "Why do you think our parents are always so insistent we attend these events together? Even they can see it. Sorry, Boy toy. But it's inevitable."
"Boy toy?" he smirked, "Okay. I'm totally liking where this is going. I can get down with that."
"You would." she retorted lightly, "But seriously. You and me could make the entire world jealous." her eyes sparkled, "Well, at least all of Tree Hill High."
"Are you trying to convince me? Because you're doing a pretty good job so far."
"So easy." she giggled and took another long swig of the sweet wine as she stared up a him, "Nathan…" she started after a moment, "What happened to us?"
"You're bringing us down already? Damn. And here you were a couple of minutes ago ranting about how we were written in the stars and all that. Way to have a change of heart Davis." he joked.
She giggled and hit him lightly on the shoulder, "Dumb ass. I just meant in general. Me, you, Haley and Jake…we've known each other forever. And up until this year, the four of us were pretty much inseparable. Then you joined the basketball team…Jake got that psycho of a bitch girlfriend..and Haley..well Haley's always been Haley. Submerged in school or books and all that. This year...we just drifted, I mean do you even still talk to Jake?"
"We're on two different teams, Davis. And I don't just mean I'm on Varsity and he's on J.V, he's just…changed. I guess Nikki really had an effect on him huh?"
"Yeah.." she replied softly, her expression melancholy all of a sudden. "Do you remember that little game we always used to play when we were little?"she turned back to him, a reminiscent smile on her lips, "Castle Princess? Me and Haley always tried to get you and Jake to play. But of course, you would absolutely refuse and Jake would always agree."
He laughed, "Jagielski was such a wuss. So whipped. Always doing exactly what you and Haley wanted him to do."
She laughed with him, "Well he would. Until you started in on him. Teasing him and telling him that girls played castle and boys played basketball."
"Well it worked didn't it? And it always got me out of playing that ridiculous game with you and Haley."
"I think you were just jealous." She smiled at him wickedly, "Because I always chose Jake to be my prince."
"Yeah. That had to be it." he replied dryly, "Because, I mean seriously who would want to get stuck with Haley as their princess?" he shook his head as he took a huge gulp of the expensive drink, "Why so nostalgic all of a sudden Davis?"
"Thinking of easier times I guess.." she shrugged, "Eh. It's probably just the alcohol."
"Y'know…talking about the effects of alcohol…" he started, scooting closer to her, "You're looking extremely sexy right now."
She gave him a light shove, "Excuse me?" she stared at him haughtily, "But I'll have you know, It's not the alcohol. It's all me, Baby." She fingered the silky material, "You're just now seeing me at my best."
"That dress does look good on you, darling." He grinned cockily, "But you know what would look better on you? Me."
She rolled her eyes, "That was such a line, Nate."
"Maybe…" he nodded as his hand trailed down her arm and his hand came in contact with her, "But you know what's not a line? You're beautiful. And I can't believe I'm just now realizing it. That, and I totally want to kiss you right now." He muttered huskily, gazing down at her.
She met his intense gaze evenly, and for just a second, her breath caught in her throat as she stared up at him,his handsome features silhouetted against the twinkling lights hanging from the gazebo.
Maybe it was the amount of alcohol she had already consumed. Or maybe it was sitting here with him reminiscing about old times. Or maybe it was just him. But she was suddenly consumed with a strong urge to kiss him. It came out of nowhere. But it was positively overwhelming.
She toyed with the collar of his Geoffrey Beene tuxedo and she licked her lips subtly, her gaze falling on his lips. She moved in, giving into this sudden urge to feel his lips on hers and their lips met in a tentative but lingering kiss.
She felt a slight flutter in her stomach as she opened her eyes and stared up at him, "Nathan?" she asked a little uncertain.
The corners of his mouth tilted up into a slight smirk and he shook his head slightly, as if to silence her. He lowered his mouths to her again in a searing second kiss that left no doubt or room for questions. Satisfied, she curved her arms around his neck and pressed her body closer to his as she kissed him back fervently.
End flashback
"You kissed me first." He smirked as he basked in the memory.
"What? Please, you were hitting on me first. I just took initiative."
"That you did." He teased, "I mean, damn Davis. That was quite a kiss. Sure, I heard the rumors..but experiencing it firsthand is a totally different deal."
She slapped his arm playfully, "Ha-Ha. Whatever. You better thank your lucky stars then. I decided to settle on you. "
He laughed, "Every day, Babe. Every day. Now c'mon.." he pulled her up by the hand and pulled her up. She ran after him, laughing as they reached the shoreline. They ran around carefree, splashing and frolicking in the waves. When he pulled her into his arms for a long kiss, the two of them standing waist deep in the ocean, he whispered in her ear very softly , "You and Me, Babe. It's going to be forever."
Standing there, in his arms, with the sun lazily sinking in the ocean and his sweet promise of love....she couldn't remember ever feeling so happy..and so in love.
"Haley! Wait up!" Felix rapidly made his way across the parking lot, having just spotted the blonde.
She haltered slightly but quickened her step once she saw who it was.
"Haley!" he catched up with her, slightly out of breath, "Damn, shorty. For a small girl, you can certainly walk fast."
"What the hell do you want Felix?" she snapped, "I have nothing to say to you."
"But I do." he reached out a hand to touch her shoulder lightly, "Haley...I'm really sorry. I know I was way out of line but I was totally drunk off my ass and I know that's no excuse but-"
"Save it!" she replied, her eyes flashing, "I don't want to hear it. Y'know, I can't believe you even have the nerve to come up to me and try to redeem yourself! I said all I had to say to you at the party and now if you'll excuse me, I'm done wasting my time with you. I've got a class to go to." she brushed past him but he pulled her back, his hand firmly grasping her arm.
"Haley.." he said in an almost pleading tone, "Please...just hear me out okay?"
She shook off his grasp, "I don't have to. And most importantly, I don't want to. Felix, I mean it! Leave me the hell alone!"
"Is everything okay?" Lucas walked up behind them, noticing the obvious tension between the two. He shot a questioning look Haley's way, "You okay?" he asked, lightly placing his hand over on her forearm.
"Yes." she said quickly. "Everything's good. Felix was just leaving." she glared over meaningfully at the spike haired boy.
"Haley, we're not done here." he shook his head at her firmly.
"Hey, I believe she just told you to leave." Lucas interjected, trying to keep his obvious annoyance under control.
"Why don't you mind your own damn business?!" he snapped, starting to get aggravated, "This is between Haley and me."
Lucas returned his angry glare evenly, "Well, she made it pretty clear she doesn't want to talk to you." he replied coldly, "Take the hint and just walk away man."
"Who the hell are you?" he scoffed, "Her damn bodyguard?"
"No. But I'm someone who cares about her. And someone who's going to break your face in if you come near her again." he snapped, having had enough.
He laughed, "Easy there Tiger." he warned, "Don't get too protective over the girl. Or too attached. All cheerleaders are the same, man. They quickly move on to the next thing. But hey, you won't be missing out on much man. Wish I'd gotten a guarantee on that package."
Lucas gritted his teeth and clenched his fists, "You fucking wish." he spat, stepping dangerously close to the other boy, "Haley's got way too much class and self-respect to ever get involved with scum like you."
Haley looked nervously between the two. She had been quiet, watching in slight disbelief at the argument escalating between the two boys, but knew she had to step in and quickly. Because Lucas looked like he was dangerously close to landing the first punch. She grabbed his hand and tugged on it, "Lucas, c'mon. I appreciate you helping me out. But forget this jackass." she shot a look of pure fire his way, "Believe me. He's not worth it."
"I could've said the same thing about you sweetheart!" he called out as the two blondes started to retreat. "You're obviously in need of tutoring yourself Doll! Anytime you want any lessons in how to please someone, you know where to find me!"
Lucas stopped abruptly and removed himself from Haley's hold. He strode back to Felix, his eyes flashing in anger, "You better watch what you say. At least around me. I'm not fucking kidding."
"Oh yeah?" he taunted, smirking, "And what are you going to do if I don't?"
His fist reached out to connect with his nose and Felix stumbled backward.
"I warned you."
Haley gasped and stared at him horrified. "Lucas!" She glanced around furtively, thanking her lucky stars that the parking lot was slightly deserted and void of staff members. She grabbed his arm more firmly this time, "We're leaving!" she hissed, pulling him away hurriedly. As far away from the tan boy, before he had a chance to react and before a fight really broke out
Felix stared after the two blondes retreating and clutched his nose. "Fuck!" he winced.
He heard laughter behind him and he turned around to find Rachel shaking her head in amusement, "Wow. Did I just see Lucas Scott hammer one to you?"
"That was a cheap shot. I didn't see it coming." he said defensively. What was it with the redhead? That bitch had the knack for arriving at the worst times.
"Whatever you need to believe." she smirked, "But I told you so. I was totally right about those two. I mean, why else would the loser punch you? It's actually kind of sweet if you think about it. The knight in shining armor coming to the rescue to his damsel in distress. Y'know this is a total repeat of last year. Different Scott. Different cheerleader. Same scenerio. Who knew? The Scott brothers are more alike than they think. Always standing up for their girl."
"Would you shut up for once?" he rolled his eyes, thoroughly annoyed. "You don't know what the hell you're talking about."
"Well, I do know one thing." she said sweetly, "The little bastard son totally just one-upped you."
A flash of red hair whizzed past him as she bounced off laughing hysterically.
"Yeah, we'll see about that." he muttered darkly. He'd be damned if he let that loser win this one over him. This was not over. In, fact it was just beginning. This was war.
It was right after her second class that Peyton had her free period. She loved that time of day. It was late enough to be sunny and warm, but still early enough for the breeze to be fresh and crisp and just right. It was then that she always felt more awake and inspired than at any other time during the day. She walked over to her favorite spot by the quad, slightly secluded and out of view, but just perfect for her.
She sat down and opened her trademark sketchbook and flipped it to a spot she had been working on yesterday. She had started this after a phone call from her Dad. She couldn't believe he was really going to be gone for an entire month. Again.
She sighed and pushed her curls out of her face as she pulled out her favorite pencil and began to work on it idly, the pencil marking rapidly over the fresh page. She was so lost in her thoughts and in the blurs on her paper, she failed to notice the figure walking over to her. Until a shadow fell over her sketch and she looked up, an automatic sound of annoyance falling from her lips, "Just when my morning was going good...along had to come the likes of you."
Nathan laughed and he plopped down across from her, much to her dismay. He motioned to her sketch and grinned, "Wow. That's some talent you've got there Curly. You're just full of surprises aren't you?" he teased.
"Y'know there's a reason I spend my free period out here." she glared at him. "Alone. Y'know that way I don't bother anyone. Nobody bothers me. Get the idea?"
"Is that your subtle way of telling me you want me to leave?" he grinned.
"Well, at least you're not as dumb as you look." she replied dryly.
"Hey, I resent that."
She rolled her eyes and tilted her head at him. "What do you want?"
"To talk to you."
"Well, I don't want to talk to you. In fact I think I made that pretty clear last time."
"Why? Because of your little boyfriend?"
She chose to ignore that. "No. Because you're an immature, arrogant jackass."
He didn't even seem offended and he grinned. "I don't think I've ever been described so uh, colorfully." he shrugged. "Hey, it's cool. You're entitled to your own opinion, or to Dawson's opinion of me."
"First of all, you've done a really good job of proving that and second of all..Dawson?"
"Yeah, you know...shaggy blonde, dorky, best friends with a hot girl, who's too sarcastic for her own good." he grinned slyly, "And totally oblivious to the fact that she's secretly got a thing for him."
"Excuse me? But I don't have a thing for Lucas. Not that it's any of your business."
"Right. What was I thinking? Besides..." he added, a twinkle in his blue eyes, "You two don't go together at all. He's not your type."
"Sure." she rolled her eyes, "Because you know exactly my type."
"I know exactly who isn't your type."
"Yeah, you."
He laughed, "We'll see about that Babe."
She glared at him, "Don't you have someone else to go annoy the hell out of? Like, oh I don't know…your girlfriend?"
"And deprive you of quality one-on-one time with yours truly?" he leaned across the table and tugged at one of her curls, "You know most girls would consider themselves lucky right about now."
She swatted his hand away and rolled her eyes, "God, you're so full of yourself. I'm surprised you haven't started your own personal fan club." She retorted sarcastically.
"Oh, you haven't heard? The Hotshot 23 Fan Club just opened it's membership."he winked at her, "And guess who's the president?"
She let out an exasperated sigh and glared at him, "Is there even a point to this little dialogue we've got going here?"
"You mean other than to annoy the hell out of you?" he shrugged innocently, "Not really. You're just really cute when you're pretending to be annoyed by my presence."
"And you are not."
He looked at her, feigning a look of shock, "What are you saying? I guess tall, dark and handsome isn't your type huh?" he teased.
"I think you mean tall, dark and obnoxious."
"You really like to lay it thick with the sarcasm don't you?" he asked her in an amused tone.
"Me? Sarcastic? No. Of course not." she blinked up at him innocently, "I'm far too blonde to completely grasp the subtleties of mockery."
"Well, aren't we just a ray of sunshine?"
"Speaking off..you're blocking mine. So, why don't you hit the road Jack?" she suggested, turning her attention back to her sketch.
He shook his head and laughed, "I take it back. You're even cuter when you're trying to be infuriating." he stood up and he gave her his infamous grin. "I'll see you around Sawyer."
"Not if I can help it." she retorted, focusing back on her drawing.
"Hey Sawyer!" when she looked up, he grinned and pointed to her drawing. "Your Dad will come back, you'll see." he winked at her and slung his backpack over his shoulder. "He'd be crazy not to."
Her eyes shot up to meet his and she glanced down at the bold letters sketched over a large sailboat pulling away from the Marina...HE NEVER COMES BACK. She looked back up at the retreating form of the basketball player, a surprised smile tugging at her lips.
"Okay, during the American Revolution, what system was used by the colonists to send messages to each other?"
"Hmmm..." Brandon looked at Haley thoughtfully, "Committees of Correspondence?"
"Are you asking me or telling me?" she teased, her brown eyes sparkling.
He laughed, "Telling you."
She nodded, "Well you're right. Okay, let's see...." she looked down at her notebook, "What French military officer served with General Washington?"
"Easy. Marquis de Lavayet. Wait, did I even say that right?"
She grinned, "Good thing, this test is not oral huh? It's Lafayette. But good! You're remembering all this...okay, last one, What was the location of the series of battles that became the turning point for the Revolutionary War?"
He scrunched up his nose as he searched his mind for the correct answer, "Uhh...Charleston? No. Wait....I got it! Yorktown!"
She bit her lip and winced playfully, "Actually. It was Saratoga. The colonists won these battles and it proved that the American army could defeat the British. It also encouraged the other European countries to consider helping America in the Revolution." she noticed his face fall slightly and she smiled at him, giving his arm a reassuring squeeze, "Hey. You did great though! That was the only one you missed. Impressive. You're going to ace this test Brandon."
His face brightened and he grinned back at her, "I did didn't I?" he asked proudly. He picked up his books and stuffed them in his backpack as he stood up, "Thanks, Haley. I'll catch up with you later okay? I'm off to my next class. Wish me luck on that test!"
"You won't need it!" she called out, smiling to herself as he retreated out of the tutoring center. She smiled and looked at her own work contentedly. She always felt such accomplishment whenever she was with one of her 'students' as she liked to think of them. There was something about watching them get it. Seeing it click in their mind, that filled her with a sense of fullfillment and pride that she couldn't explain. She never got that feeling anywhere else.
A knock outside the door snapped her out of her reverie and she looked up, smiling as Lucas poked his head in, "Hey, you can come in. Brandon and I just finished."
He nodded and stepped inside, dropping his book bag on the table and sitting across from her, "How'd it go?"
She smiled, "Great actually. He's got a major test next period. He's a little nervous, but I really think he's going to ace it."
He smiled, "Well, he's got a great teacher." he said honestly.
She felt a small blush creep up her cheeks. It wasn't like they didn't tell her that all the time, but coming from Lucas, well it just sounded really nice for some reason. Like he truly believed it and wanted her to believe it too.
She smirked at him slightly, "How's your hand?" she teased.
He looked at her sheepishly, "I'm sorry, but he had it coming, and he wouldn't shut up and I really-"
"Hey, it's okay. Really. To be honest, I've been wanting to do that myself since Saturday, but you beat me to it." she joked. She reached across the table and grasped his free hand, "Look, I'm not normally one to condone violence, in fact I think it's the worst possible way to deal with any situation..but well..no one's ever done that for me before. Stood up for me like that." she admitted, "And if I didn't say it this morning, thank you."
He blushed slightly and his hand felt warm underneath hers. He tried to cover his nervousness with a laugh, "Well, you're welcome. I was afraid you weren't going to talk to me ever again. This morning you looked like you wanted to take your own swing at me."
She laughed, "Sorry. That little encounter with Felix just made the horrible morning I was already having even worse. First, when I woke up this morning, I literally tumbled out of bed, into the night dresser no less. Then I couldn't find my homework from last night. I totally spilled juice all over a new shirt and on the way to school I totally got attacked by a flock of crows! And-"
"A murder."
She paused, "What?"
"More than one is a murder."
"O-okay." She gave him a puzzled look. "I have no idea what you're talking about."
He shrugged and smiled, "No one ever does. It's like y'know, a parliament of owls, an exultation of larks, a murder of crows..."
She nodded, catching on. "So….What are ravens?"
He raised an eyebrow, "An unkindness."
"Ah…" she nods towards his gym bag, "Kind of appropriate given the circumstances don't you think?" she pauses, "How's that going by the way?"
"As expected." he turned and stared out the classroom window thoughtfully, "Y'know..." he started slowly, "I've never walked away from anything before, Haley"
She furrowed her brow, "What are you saying?"
He sighed and looked back at her, "I meant what I said Saturday Haley. I don't know how much more of this I can take. And it's not like me to give up so easily on something I really love. And I love it. I really do. I just can't do it anymore. What's even worse, I don't know why I can't do it. Y'know, it's like, no matter how confusing or screwed up life got, the game always made sense. It was mine, you know. And in a lot of ways it's who I am. But I can't be that person in their gym, or in their uniforms, or… in their world."
She sighed and her eyes met his, "It is who you are Lucas. It always will be. Wether it's in the River Court or in the gym with them. Look, if basketball means that much to you, don't let them win okay? Don't let them take that from you too."
"But, what if I fail? I already screwed up the first game. What if it only gets worse?"
"Well, what if it doesn't?" she rebuked softly, "Look, Robert F. Kennedy once said that 'Only those who dare to fail greatly, can ever achieve greatly.'
The corners of his mouth tilted up slightly, "Obviously Kennedy never played for the Ravens...or with Nathan and the guys."
She laughed, but her expression grew serious as she stared at him, thinking over his last comment, "Lucas, I can sit here and tell you all the reasons why you shouldn't give up. But in the end that's something that you're going to decide all on your own. If Nathan and the guys have any sort of influence on this, don't worry about them okay? They're going to leave you alone. Trust me on that...anyways this isn't about them."
She gathered her books and stood up, "I've got to head out, but..." she gave his shoulder a gentle squeeze, "Just think about what I said okay?" she said softly, "And I'll see you at practice?"
He shrugged and looked down at the table thoughtfully. He picked up a thick black wayward notebook, "Haley you forgot th-" but she was already gone. He sighed and fingered the thick journal curiously. He hesitated for a second before opening it to the first page, a surprised smile crossing his lips as his eyes caught the first lines staring back at him.
Afraid to surrender my dreams, Afraid to let you in
Although I've heard it takes strenght to conquer...
It can also take courage to surrender...
And sometimes the biggest battles..
Are the ones you fight withing your own..
"Jakey, Jake!" Brooke grinned as she spotted her childhood friend, sitting alone at her lunch table. She slid her tray across from him and snapped open her Diet Coke, "This is a first. You haven't joined us for lunch in forever."
He shrugged and looked down at his food. He usually holed up in the library trying to get his assignments out of the way so that he could concentrate on his daughter fully at home. But he'd been in a foul mood the whole morning and decided to join the rest of his friends at lunch, in hopes of a distraction, "I figured it was time to get out of my cave."
She giggled and sipped her drink, "Well, good! We've all missed you anyways."
Not everybody, he thought sourly, "Why? I see everyone on a daily basis."
She giggled, "You're always so technical about things! I mean during lunch silly. The only time we really see you is during games and practices and it's not like we can all just fool around and joke. Y'know how Sergeant Whitey is."
He cracked a smile, "Yeah. But I saw everyone at Nathan's too."
"Ohhh! Talking about that, it sucks! I only got to dance with you one time." she pouted.
"Can't dance anyway remember?"
"I know." she winked, "But I had so much fun teaching ya."
He blushed slightly and averted his gaze. Why did she have to go and say something like that? And why did it have to send his heart pounding wildly in his chest like that?
"You're a little quiet today." she noticed, taking in his faraway look.
He shrugged, "Not much to say, I guess."
"That's a first." she teased, "But seriously, you okay?"
"Everything's fine." he stressed, a little irritated at her insistence, "Talking about fine, I see everthing's okay between you and Nathan after all." he stated, trying to keep the edge out of his voice.
Her eyes took on a faraway look as she remembered their day together. They had spent the whole day at the beach house and hadn't even bothered to go home, "Things are back to normal." she agreed, smiling dreamily.
He bit the inside of his cheek and shrugged, "I've seen what your 'normal' is." he retorted lightly, hating the way he was coming across but unable to stop, "How can you be happy about that? I mean why can't you see-" he sighed and shook his head, "I'm sorry. It's not my business."
She stared at him, "What are you talking about?"
He sighed irritated, "Just forget it okay?" he said a little more sharply than he wanted to, "I'm sorry I put my two cents in. It obviously doesn't matter." he muttered under his breath.
She frowned, "Jake...are you-are you mad at me or something? I mean, did I do something to offend you? You've been kind of snippy with me since I came over."
"No." he rubbed his eyes tiredly, "I'm just..I'm tired. And cranky. And I'm sorry, I shouldn't take it out on you." he replied a little more softly.
She nodded, knowing there was something more to it than that, "Well, listen if you want to-"
"Hey, Babe!" Nathan grinned and plopped down next to her, they rest of the guys following close behind. He glanced over at Jake, "Jagielski." he smirked. He turned to the brunnette and made a big show of leaning down and pressing his lips to hers.
Brooke interwined her fingers through Nathan's, whatever she was about to say to Jake quickly forgotten as she lost herself in her boyfriend's sweet kiss.
Jake sighed and averted his gaze as everyone else hooted and whistled as Brooke and Nathan continued to kiss. He silently got up and threw his lunch away, making his way to the library. It's not like they noticed anyway. At least, not the one that mattered.
Lucas trudged into the lockers after a rough practice. He'd decided to show up, taking truly to heart Haley's words in the tutoring center earlier that day. That, and maybe a little something more got him through that practice. He was slightly shocked though. Nathan and his friends hadn't thrown one single disparaging comment his way. Or thrown the ball at his face deliberately. Something must be up, he thought suspiciously as he changed into his regular clothes. It must be another plan to mess with him. Make him think they're done and then BAM! Hit him with a good one when he leasts expects it.
Regardless, he wasn't going to let any of that mess with his new-found lifted spirits. He was determined to make this work. He was going to show them all, just who Lucas Scott really was. A damn good player. He'd already let them take a lot from him. But they weren't going to take this. Not anymore.
Across the school, and having taken a refreshing shower after cheer practice, Haley decided to head over to the tutoring center. There were some things she needed to pick up for her next tutoring session the next morning. That, and she couldn't find her journal. She walked in there in hopes of finding it.
After grabbing what she needed she looked around the room. But there was no sign of her beloved journal. Slight panic rose inside of her but she quickly dismissed it. She'd probably left it in her locker, she told herself rationally. No need to freak.
She did a quick double check but came across empty. There was no way she could've lost it. What if someone had it? she thought to herself horrified. Oh god, every single thought and emotion was written in between those pages. She would die, if anyone ever read it. Her entire heart and soul was poured into that book.
The door swung open before she could step out and she jumped back startled. Her face quickly turned into a frown, "What are you doing here? You're a little lost aren't you?"
Felix shook his head, "Afraid not, Doll. This is the tutor center right? Where students in dire need like myself come for help?"
"No way in hell. Are you kidding me?"
He shook his head again and digged in his backpack, pulling out a piece of paper swiftly, "Does this look like a joke to you?"
She stared at the blue sheet with both their names written clearly across. She shoved it back into his hands, "You're really something you know that? After what you pulled on Saturday and this morning, and now you expect me to actually help you?" she crossed her arms in front of her, "I'm sorry, but you obviously have me confused with someone who actually cares."
"You're obviously not understanding this. I'm failing."
She sighed, "Whatever. Look, I'll find you someone else."
"Sorry Doll, but this sheet specifically says that you're going to be my tutor."
"That can be changed!" she snapped.
"Hey, there's nobody else. You're obviously the best. You're a tutor, I'm your student, when do we start?"
She rubbed her forehead, completely aggravated now, "We're not! I'm not going to help you. Okay? Find someone else!"
He sighed, "Look Haley, I wouldn't be here if I didn't really need your help. But fine, whatever. You don't want to help me? That's fine. But I thought this is what you do. You help students much less brighter than yourself. Despite any issues you may be having with them. I thought you would look past that, but I guess not right?"
She faltered slightly, her anger dissipating as she watched him slink out the door. She sighed deeply and slumped down on one of the chairs. Completely exhausted. Both physically and mentally. Her conscious was yelling at her to do the right thing...but her instincts were telling her she did good in refusing her help to the boy. The question now was....who should she do?
"Dude, I can't believe you hit Felix and I missed it!"
Lucas chuckled as he and Peyton walked along the streets of Tree Hill later that evening, "The guy deserved it. You should've heard some of the things he was saying about Haley."
"Aw...and of course you couldn't allow that." she teased, pushing him slightly, "That is so sweet! Standing up for your girl...Oh! So romantic!" she pretended to swoon and he laughed.
"So anyways this thing we're going to? What's it about anyway?"
He stuffed his hands in his pockets, "Some sort of tradition I guess. It's called a burning boat festival. Something about burning your bad karma or luck and stuff."
"Ah." she nodded, "A chance to start fresh?"
"Something like that."
"So, what bad karma are you burning this year?"
He shrugged and smiled, "If I tell you, will you promise not to laugh? Or think it's totally stupid?"
She pretended to be offended, "Luke, I would never dare!"
He laughed, "Yeah, you would! So promise!"
She grinned, "Okay, you big baby. I promise."
He pulled out a small piece of material out of his pocket and showed it to her.
She took it from his hands and looked at him, "Your jersey from junior leagues? Wait, that's when you used to play in the same league as.."
He nodded, "Yeah, they've had a hold on me and my love of the game every since that day. And I figured, it's time to let it go y'know? Because it's not about him. Or them."
She nodded and hooked her arms through his, "I understand. And no, I don't think it's supid at all. I think it's right for tonight. For what it signifies." she smiled, "And look...we're here."
"Haley!" Brandon ran breathlessly towards her, "Look!" he exclaimed, handing her a paper, "Check it out!"
She looked down at it and a huge grin broke out on her face, "B+! Brandon, all right! You did it!"
"Yeah, I just threw all my bad grades into the pot. I'm not going back there."
She nodded, "I know you're not."
"I've had...I don't know how many tutors, and you're a miracle worker."
She shook her head and handed his paper back to him, "No, this is all you, man. Congratulations!"
"Thanks, Haley. See you." he leaned down and gave her a quick friendly hug and she stood there, watching him leave. The happy grin was still in tact and she basked in the glow she always felt after seeing the hard work pay off. Not just in her part. But in their's as well.
That moment was short lived as in that moment she turned around and spotted Felix staring at her a few feet away. She recalled their encounter earlier and turned away feeling her high spirits come crashing down. She heard Brooke calling her name and she walked over to meet her best friend. She hesitated slightly as she spotted Nathan standing with the brunnette. She shot him a quick smile, but it didn't matter anyway. He completely avoided her gaze and turned his attention to Brooke instead. Her face fell slightly and she sighed, looking away from them. She caught sight of two blondes standing across from them, and her face lit up into a friendly smile as she lifted her hand in a wave, ignoring Nathan's annoyed gaze.
"You know, I really do like her."
Lucas looked over at her, "Huh?"
She nodded in the direction where the entire popular crowd stood, "Haley. I really do like her. She's really sweet."
He smiled as he stared into the fire burning in front of them, "Yeah." he said softly.
"Are you ever going to tell her how you feel?"
His head snapped up to look at her, his brow furrowed, "I-I don't know." he admitted, "I mean, I don't want freak her out or anything. We barely know each other."
"Who cares about how long you've known each other? You can't help the way you feel. If not now then when?"
"I don't want to ruin this easy friendship we've got going, by just laying it all out there y'know? And what if...I mean, I don't know...what if she doesn't feel the same?"
"Who knows? You might be surprised." she smiled. She'd seen the way the pretty tutor reacted around her best friend. "Besides...sometimes you just have to jump in with your heart and take a chance."
He looked over at her, a small smile on his face, "Okay, what was that?" he laughed, "Where's my cynical Peyton and what have you done with her?" he teased.
She shrugged innocently, "What? I'm good for the occasional optimistic advice."
They were quiet for several minutes as they both took in their surroundings. "It's different with Haley." he spoke up, his gaze fixed on the blonde across from them. "It's like...there's an understanding there. A connection. I know it sounds crazy, but I can't explain it. It's like there's something about her that just draws me in. And I can't look or walk away. Have you ever felt that Peyton? Have you ever met somebody and just felt like they know you and understand you, without really trying?"
Are you ever going to tell me why you're so sad?....There's an air of heaviness that surrounds you..I just want to know, what's a beautiful girl like yourself have to be sad about?....He's not your type... Your Dad will come back, you'll see. He'd be crazy not to...
She shook her head and gave her best friend a small smile, "Nope. Never Have."
