A/N: Thanks for letting me know that there are reader's still out there. As for the divorce, this was something I was planning when I first started this fic. I do have a plan where this will all go. I can understand that it may not make sense, but I don't think either of them are cautiously thinking, but rather just reacting to what they are feeling and what they want/need in the moment. I definitely want to tell the story a specific way, and I really hope it turns out alright. I definitely won't leave this unfinished. I really need to finish it for myself. Thanks for all the reviews and if you have other feedback it is much appreciated.

This is a long chapter as well. I want to make sure all thought processes were explored in different scopes. I wanted that for Chapter 12 and Chapter 13. Chapter 14 will be much shorter. Not sure when it will be posted but definitely within the next month. I have the outline, but haven't began typing away.

The song used is from Season 2…the only good LP scene that was given to us. I wanna say 2.10 when Peyton calls out Lucas and they share that hug.

I feel so numb
All I've become
Has fall'n apart
Hole in my heart

Lucas remains silent, continuously staring at the pamphlet in front of him directing his focus on Peyton's signature. The word divorce playing over and over in his head, confused when exactly did made this decision. Not only did she take the time to research and discuss this with lawyers, but she got the paperwork, and signed the papers without acknowledging him in the slightest. Signing the papers as she would a receipt, as if it was nothing, disregarding their marriage, their love, and everything they shared for almost nine years. His emotions switched several times in that minute of silence: first shock, which turned into despair and sadness and then finally switched to anger. He had so many questions, so many things he wanted to say. But as his emotions switched back and forth and he reluctantly chose to stay silent staring at her

"Lucas please say something" Peyton said breaking the silence looking to see what he is thinking or feeling. Her eyes seemed cold to him, like she was staring through him wanting to end this conversation as soon as it started.

"I was waiting on you." He says softly holding the piece of paper. "You haven't said a word. You just gave this to me with no explanation" he said slowly mumbling it all under his breath.

"You know what it is. I was trying to give you time to process" she says with no emotion. Process? He felt like he was speaking to a bank teller, someone who gives the objective facts without reasoning or understanding behind it. This isn't a bank statement or a loan. This was their marriage, and if this was the decision that she was going to make than he needed to make her suffer, in any way he could.

"You're giving up on me." He says honest and broken looking down, refusing to look at her cold eyes. In his heart, he knows this is not the case. Peyton must have a reason, but at this moment he didn't want the reason. He didn't want to understand. At this moment, he wanted her to hurt, he wanted her to feel an ounce of what he was feeling.

"Luke…" she tries to say something but she doesn't know what to say. The sound of his voice and the look in his eyes hurt her, as he knew it would. There is a crack in her voice, her eyes soften, and she grabs his hand clutching on for something…maybe hope…maybe comfort…either way he needed her to express herself. He wasn't going to have a conversation with a cold, heartless shell of his wife.

"Til death do us part Peyton. We vowed until good times and bad" he continued trying to guilt her and break her.

"Please…" she begged, her eyes now tearing up becoming overwhelmed by the entire situation and what she actually has decided.

"What happened to true love always?" he knew these words symbolized their relationship, a relationship that started when they were 16 and didn't flourish until they were 18. A relationship that was special, beautiful, and what to them seemed everlasting. And with those words, her world came crumbling before her. Her stoic, cold technique wasn't going to work. She should have known Lucas Scott wouldn't let her go in that fashion. And just like that Peyton began to question and doubt every decision and thought that brought her to Boston. Tears streamed down her eyes and she bowed her head towards him, now clutching to both his hands. "Peyton…baby…please just look me in the eyes" she silently refused. She needed to be strong; she needed to explain why she was here, and why this decision was made. She knew if she looked at him in the eyes their love and passion would win out and all reason would go out the window. "Peyton, please I just need to those green eyes of yours. Please." She had to be strong. She has to prove that could do this. That she could make this decision and stick with it. And with that she composed herself. She took a deep breath and let go of his hands. She wiped as many tears as she possibly could and lifted her head staring right at him. He put his hands and cupped her cheeks, using his thumbs to wipe the excess water that remained under her eye. And then kissed her forehead. "I miss you." he says. He grazes his lips on both sides of her cheek, right underneath the eyes that were just weeping and leaves two small chaste kisses on both sides. Peyton softly closes her eyes embracing his fingers, his lips, his steady breaths, and his touch. They haven't been this close in weeks, and she hadn't felt this passion in months. Her heart was beating fast and her throat was closing in. All reasoning was completely out the window, and she just wanted to further sink into everything this man could offer her. Lucas took her body language as a sign, and with that he placed his lips on hers, and she didn't object. First the movement was slow, gradually reacquainting with one another like old friends. It didn't take long for their rhythm to be in sync, a perfect match, and for Lucas know exactly what to do next. As the rhythm enhanced, her lips granted access and his tongue slowly massaged hers as his fingers gently stroked her cheeks. He pulls away only to open his eyes, only for a moment, because he needed to see her eyes again. He wanted to see her want him…need him…earn for him. And she did. She opened her eyes, staring directly at him. The look, while brief, said so many things at once. They both wanted and needed the exact same things in that moment, and he was more than willing to oblige. She leans forward back to his lips, this time the kiss is even more intense as their lips moved quicker, their tongues bumped into each other; he then grabs the back of her neck with passion pushing her deeper and deeper into the kiss. His lips leave her mouth and move towards her neck, tracing his tongue on the familiar spots and leaving hungry kisses along the way. He moves up to her ear, which he know can leave her breathless. He first kisses the outer ear slightly and then traces it with his tongue. Small moans escape Peyton's lips, and these noises drive him crazy. He traces kisses down her cheek, back to her neck, and then back to her ear. His tongue escapes his lips but this time hits her sweet spot inside her ear. She ets out a moan. She wants him more than ever. However, her mind starts to wander. And it was this motion that brings her back from reality. Their love and passion hadn't gone this far since before the accident. She didn't know where this came from. Was this because she brought up the papers? Was this a desperate attempt to call it off? Her mind continued to think, and she stopped responding to his touch. Just like that her head had won the battle against her fiery emotions. As much as she wanted this, she knows this is not what she needs. This is just making it harder...so much harder. She pushes him away and stands up, moving away from his reach.

Severed fragments of my being
Piece together, give life meaning
Fragile quilts of faded memories
Torn apart by life's disease again

"Luke, I'm sorry. I can't. I came here for a reason" as he watches her and listens carefully to her words, he puts his head down in defeat. "I knew this would be hard, but seeing you, hearing you, feeling you…It is hard" she admits being careful to avoid eye contact.

"You thought this would be easy?" he questioned her.

"Course not... But I didn't want it to start this way. We haven't done that in…" her mind gets lost thinking about the last moment they made love. The memory that will last a lifetime, and a memory that brought them their miracle.

"Since our boy" he says staring at her stomach.

"Yea…and it felt..." again she get's lost in her words and in her memories thinking back about how he used to make her feel.

"Just like it used to." He finished, his voice quiet again trying to move closer towards her and grab her hand but she pulls it away from his.

"We can't. This isn't how I imagined this to go. Me telling you…"

"How'd you imagine it? You bringing me the papers. I sign them and then you're out of my life? What the fuck is this Peyton?" his tone of voice changes. His emotions change. He wanted answers. No, he deserved answers.

"I can't be your wife Lucas" she says staring directly at him and this catches him off guard. His body clenches processing again and again what she had just said.

"Since when?" he responds harshly. He needed to know when she thought about this. Has this been on her mind for months, and Boston gave her the edge. Was this all of a sudden? An irrational emotional decision? What led her to this?

"Thursday night." He scoffs at the sounds this. It hasn't been three days. "I know it seems quick, but after talking to you, I knew Lucas. I just knew. I can't do this." She pauses. It was all hard for her. She practiced what she was going to say over a hundred times during this moment. As she slept Saturday night at Brooke's and when she got on the flight Sunday morning, she practices over and over again. She thought about what she was going to say and how she was going to say it. The rehearsal actually helped. She already fucked up in the beginning, giving into his touch. Moment of weakness she thought. But now, she needed to be strong. She takes a deep breath before continuing. You know Luke this entire time I have been thinking about what I have wanted and .…" she takes a quick pause and Lucas decides to interrupt her in this moment

"What do you want Peyton?" he needed to know. He was quick to respond displaying a cruel, unforgiving tone of voice. This was something she wasn't used to. Even during their low moments in Tree Hill, Lucas was never angry at her. He was angry at himself and the situation, but he was careful about displacing his anger to his wife. Today was a different story.

She smiled and shook her ahead knowing what she wanted was impossible. "You want to know what I want…I want to pack up all of your belongings, and I want you to come back to Tree Hill. I want you to come to every doctor's appointment. I want to be there for your therapy sessions. I want you to be there during the late night cravings and when my back is in pain. I want to be there for your bad days and everything that could entail. I've seen your struggles Luke and I want them all. I want to deliver a beautiful baby boy and we go on with our lives, just like I always wanted. What I wanted hasn't changed Luke. You being in a wheelchair has never changed what I wanted. I want it all. I want us." she confesses and this was exactly what she imagined saying to him. She wanted him to remember back when they were 16 where he said it to a scared and reluctant Peyton at the Basketball Charity Event at Nathan's house. She was terrified in that moment knowing what type of relationship and connection existed between them.

"Peyton I need…" he starts, but she quickly puts her hands up to stop him. She has rehearsed this so many times, that she needed to explain the battle that ensuing between her head and her heart.

"Luke please let me finish. Trust me I know that's selfish. I know that what I want is selfish" she nods and being very clear with her choice of words, making sure to clarify her thoughts and how she has processed through this. "After hearing everything you said Thursday night I had this epiphany…this realization. It has nothing to do with what we want or what I want, our decisions need to be based off what we both need. You and me. You need to be here. I never thought I'd understand until you finally opened up to me that night" she smiles, shakes her head, and stares deep in his eyes. "I am so proud of hun. You have no idea" her eyes are shining and he can tell she has meant every word she has said. "You need to be in this support group away from your home and away from me. Your voice, your passion, your inspiration is back Luke, and I won't stand in your way. I have to accept it. I need to accept it and because of that I need to let you go." she finishes.

"This makes no sense." he says completely dismissing everything she had just said, refusing to respond to anything that she mentioned. It was hard for him to process everything, but he understood the part of her letting him go. He wasn't going to accept that. "A divorce…going with lawyers. None of it makes sense. This is so fucked" he says. He is getting angrier within each passing second. His anger starts fueling Peyton. His decision to move to Boston brought her to this breaking point.

"You're the one that left our home. You are the one that left me" she reminds him. She tries to put her emotions aside as she clearly reminds of this fact.

"Is that what this is about? Revenge? You're getting back at me?" He accuses her.

"God no Lucas. You really think I'd do that"

"Well I never would have thought you would file for a divorce. You say you're supporting me but really you're just giving up on me." she looks at him wondering if he has hear anything she said. "If you really loved me, you wouldn't do this. You'd wait. You'd wait forever if you had to" these words sting. They hurt more than she could show, and they both knew it. It's difficult when two people have the history like these two because he was just throwing moments and phrases at her face, able to get the emotional reaction from her that he wanted to see.

"You know what…screw you Lucas…screw you." At this moment she stands up and walks away because she is getting angrier and more emotional. She didn't want to be this way. But Lucas Scott knew exactly what buttons to push. He knew how to please her, how to fuel her passion and love, and just as well how to make her angry.

I will cry
All is a lie
That we must break
Heal my heartache

"You're the one that is doing this. You don't get to walk away" Lucas starts raising his voice and moving his wheelchair towards her. "Look me in the eyes and tell me this what you want." He pulls her arm so she turns around and he notices Peyton's face is red and gasps for air. Her tears begin to leave her eyes as she tries to avoid his eyes; she doesn't want him to see her this way: weak, powerless, pathetic. "You don't get to cry. Don't be a fucking coward. If you want to quit on this marriage then do it with self-respect. Look me in the eyes and stop fucking crying" He was getting cruel and he knew it. She lets out soft sobs, but she started to have trouble breathing. He took her over the edge. She wanted to escape and curl in a ball, but he cornered her, and she couldn't move. In that moment Karen came hearing the commotion. She wanted to give the two blondes their privacy, but she was afraid something like this could have happened. She came rushing once she heard her son yelling at who has come to be her daughter, who is carrying her grandson.

"Lucas Scott" Karen raises her voice at her son. And Peyton turns back around letting go another sob trying to regain some kind of emotional control. Karen walks over to her and puts an arm around her attempting to calm her down. "Peyton why don't you sit down" she motions her towards the dinner table.

"No no I am fine" she didn't want to move. She wanted it to all go away.

"You aren't. Take some deep breaths" Peyton is able to regain some control of her breaths and her tears slow down. She still can't look Lucas in the eye. This was so much harder than she expected.

"What is wrong with you?" Karen says towards her son. "This is the mother of your son," she looks again at Peyton. This time she is finally able to catch her breath. Her tears dissipate and she moves closer to the table and takes a seat. She takes another breath. Lucas watching her the entire time. Karen drops a glass of water for her.

"She is taking my son away from me" he bitterly says to his mom, watching his wife's reaction wanting to cause as much disruption in this plan, in this decision, that he possibly could.

"Fuck you, no one is taking anything away from you"

"That's what a divorce is. It tears up the relationship and the family were trying to build."

"What family Lucas?" she questions snapping at him. "You left your family. There is no family that you speak of. I live in a house in Tree Hill alone. I go to bed each night clutching at my stomach thinking about you hoping you will be there when I go into labor. Most of the time my tears are right by my side that eventually put me to sleep. Other days my head is racing wondering what my future will be like, and how you will be apart of it. And then there are days that my anger is so real that I want absolutely nothing to do with you. On the phone, I don't know who I am when I speak to you. I don't know if I should tell you that I miss you or if I should explain my frustration or if I should be angry. I never know what I should do because the only thing that I wanted was for you to come home. I just wanted you home. I wanted you by my side. Through good times and bad. Til death do us part." She mimics everything he questions. "But you know the crazy part, I realized need to be here. I meant what I said…. I am proud of you. I just need to let you go. I need closure. And I am sorry. I am so sorry that I am not what you need. I am sorry that I can't help you through this. I am sorry that I have failed you. I just need this for me. I just need you to sign the papers. I will never keep you from our son. We will always be connected through him, and you are always welcome to come see him. He will always know who you are." She pauses and takes some deep breaths. She drinks the water that Karen has given her. "I just need you to sign the papers" she repeats. "And I just need to get back home. I need to put what we have aside. I just can't do this Lucas. Not anymore. Do you understand?" This wasn't exactly what she rehearsed to convince him that this was the best decision, but this would have to do. She needed to leave on decent terms. She needed to have as much closure as she could find. But his anger, his words, and her emotions got the best out of her. She was hoping this would be enough.

"I am not signing any papers" he says and with that he goes into his room and shuts the door. Peyton sinks into the chair and puts her head down on the kitchen table. Karen puts her hand on her shoulders. She realizes it wasn't enough.

Severed fragments of my being
Piece together, give life meaning
Fragile quilts of faded memories
Torn apart by life's disease again

"Karen, honestly…what are you thinking?"

"Peyton, you need to do whatever is best for you and the baby. And I need to support the three of you."

"What should I do? I don't want him to hate me. I mean I knew this would be bad, but he has never talked to me like that before. Even when things were bad in Tree Hill. He never once did that. What should I do Karen? Please."

"Sweetheart, he doesn't hate you. He is just responding. You are both just responding to one another and doing whatever you think is best. He thinks its best to be here to get treatment. And you need to let him go until he is able to come back. You guys are just in pain right now. You're frustrated. But right now you need to do what is best for my grandson. Your lack of sleep isn't healthy. The stress is even worse. Why don't you relax on the couch. I am going to talk with Lucas and then maybe we can go out for a dinner. He needs time to process so maybe we distract ourselves for a bit"

"That sounds great. Thanks Karen."

Peyton slumps on the couch wondering if they could even leave on good terms. So badly she wanted to fast forward the next couple hours...weeks...months...years... Will this pain ever go away? Would they be ok?

Life's disease again

Karen knocked on his door to give him warning she was about to open it. She didn't wait to hear his permission. She notices her son is just staring outside the window.

"When did she tell you?" he asks motionless.

"Friday night"

"And you agree with her?"

"I can't agree with anything. I am not sure I agree that you are here in Boston without your wife but I support it. I've supported it the entire time. I love having you here and I love seeing your improvement. I may not agree with Peyton, but I support it, and I want what is best for her. She has been through a lot Lucas. She is just responding to what you want and what you need."

"Mom I didn't have a choice. I was horrible to her in Tree Hill. We both needed me to come here. I did it for us."

"Did you?" he questions as if she isn't so sure.

"Of course I did. For our future" he clarifies wondering why she is questioning him.

"It seems that you did it for yourself. That you couldn't handle being there and that you needed the escape. And I think this is Peyton's reaction. She can't handle this situation and now she needs the escape" Lucas remains quiet not exactly sure what to say. She could have a point, but either way it's different. She is the one calling it off by asking for a divorce. He gets lost thinking about the differences when his mom speaks again "Why don't we all go out to dinner to take our minds off this for now. Let's distract ourselves. We need to eat. Lily and Andy are going to be back late they called and said they are doing their own thing"

"I'm not hungry." He says.

"You can't keep avoiding her."

"Why not?"

"Well I won't let it. She isn't leaving until Tuesday. Tomorrow she is taking you to all your appointments. You need to spend time together and come to some sort of understanding.

"Mom, you can't do that. I just won't go to therapy"

"You know Kate and I will kick your ass if you skip anything" the mention of Kate gives Lucas hope. He did want to speak with her, and get her opinion on this ludicrous decision. "You're sure your not hungry" she asked again.

"I'm sure."

Life's disease again

Peyton and Karen decide to go out to get dinner. Karen hadn't gone grocery shopping, and figured it would just be easier to eat out. After they returned Peyton got herself ready for bed on the couch. She kept replaying Lucas' words "giving up" and "divorce" in her head. She hears the tone of his voice. She could hear the sense of betrayal in everything he said. She can still see the anger in his eyes. She could still feed the coldness and emptiness between them. He never looked at her that way. She never felt that way around him. She was staring straight up unable to sleep, just like her nights in Tree Hill. She didn't even notice when he came by here.

Severed Fragments of my being
Piece together, give life meaning
Fragile quilts of faded memories
Torn apart by life's disease again

"Can't sleep?" he says rolling his wheelchair near her. She sits up just staring at him wondering what he is thinking and feeling right now. "I'm sorry for before." He says. "I really am. My mom was right you didn't deserve that."

"Luke we need to talk"

"I know. I know. But not tonight. My mom said you are going to take me to the sessions tomorrow"

"Yea I mean if you want. I told her we can't force you."

"No I mean it's good. I want you to meet my therapists and Kate. I want you to meet Kate."

"Ok" she gives him a half smile.

"Ok" he says. "Again, I'm sorry. Are you ok?" he says motioning towards her belly.

"We're fine." She nods.

"Can I" he motions towards the couch, her guess is to sit near her. She nods and moves to give him space.

"Do you need help?" she asks. He shakes his head no. With ease he gets himself situated on the couch.

"Movie or tv show?" he questions. She just looks at him. What was he trying to do? "Listen, my mom told me to distract myself. I just want to sit here with you until you fall asleep. I want to hear your breaths, smell your hear, and feel the heat from your body on mine. I just want to be near you Peyt" she looks at him and tells he is sincere. "I just need another memory before tomorrow. Please" he continues pleading with her.

"I don't know if it's a good idea." Scared to get too close to him over the next couple days.

"I won't try anything" he promises. And with that he puts the tv on and they sit silently. As she begins to doze off she places her head on his shoulder and eventually she finds her head on his lap. He plays with her curls content touching her in the most innocent way. No fights. No arguments. To talking. This will have to do. It was the first time since he moved to Boston, that she slept through the night. Her thoughts took a break. Her tears were out of sight. And her anger was gone. It was just Lucas and Peyton, together, and it felt good. She had to cherish this night as much as possible before the morning comes.

Severed Fragments of my being
Piece together, give life meaning
Fragile quilts of faded memories
Torn apart by life's disease again

I will cry

The next morning Peyton awakes and notices that Lucas never made it to his bed. She carefully gets up from the couch not wanting to wake him and sees Karen, Andy, and Lily in the breakfast room. Lily jumps in her arms and tells her about adventure with Andy yesterday and everything they did. Lily loved having an older brother but it was good having Peyton around as an older sister figure. Peyton sat with Karen and Andy, inhaling two cups of coffee. She needed to be alert for the day she was going to have, unsure what type of Lucas she would be around. Karen was obviously curious about last night's sleeping arrangements. Peyton explained that it happened organically but without a meaningful conversation, which is what she desperately needed. The three of them left shortly after. They needed to take Lily to school, and Karen had errands to run before Andy's 2pm appointment. Karen decided to give Peyton the car so her and Lucas could have more privacy and spend more time together. When Lucas awakes he gets back on the wheelchair and motions himself to the kitchen where Peyton remained drinking her third cup of coffee.

"Still a caffeine addict I see"

"How'd you know?"

"The pots gone. My mom and Andy don't drink it really. And I know you."

"Yea" is all she can say. "Listen Luke we need to talk about yesterday and this" she says motioning to the divorce papers.

"Peyton I told you yesterday that I won't sign them" he says it calmly without hesitation or anger. "I meant what I said."

"Lucas please, It's been so difficult for me to be so far from you. It's been so hard to act...to be...to live. I just can't anymore."

"I just want you to be you. I want you to be honest and open with me" he says it as if it is so easy.

"Just like you can't come back to Tree Hill to be yourself with me. I can't do that over the phone Luke. We both need different things"

"I can't divorce you" was all he said. He didn't raise his voice. He wasn't angry. "I won't" and with that he moves away and goes towards his room. Right before entering he turns around. "Listen I am going to shower. You can shower in my mom's room. We need to leave by 8:30"

"Lucas let me help you shower it's fine" she says putting her coffee cup in the sink and moving towards him. He smiles at her urgency to help him.

"I can do it on my own" She looks at him surprised. "Don't be surprised. It's been a couple weeks now." He says confidently but could tell she was still unsure. "Peyton, don't worry. I know the last time you needed to be there. I know. Things have changed. I promise" and with that he enters his room.

It was approaching 8:30,and she began to worry. She already showered and gotten ready in Karen's room, and was waiting patiently by the couch. She got scared something happened, so she walked towards his door and opened it and just as she opens the door she sees him moving towards the door. He was cleanly shaven, gel in hair, and had a white button down and jeans. He looked good, and she was shocked but impressed he was able to do it all on his own.

"I told you not to worry" he says smiling. "Let's go." And with that he made his way to Karen's car. She noticed that he could get in the car with ease and even fold the wheel chair a specific way to get in the backseat all while sitting in the passenger seat.

Peyton first takes him to physical therapy where they put him on a machine to see if he can gain any movement on his legs. He hates this part because he knows that there are parts of his legs that he will never gain control. Next, they put him on these new crutches to see if his upper body weight can motion him using this walking device. He hates this part as well because he usually gives up fairly fast. His therapist is convinced that he should be able to use these crutches given his injury. He emphasizes the importance of exercise, stretches, and completing the necessary tasks at home. Peyton is impressed with Dr. Mitchell and how he plans their session. They do a series of tests, a series of exercise, and then debrief at the end where he gives him specific tasks he should be doing on his own. She wonders how seriously he is doing this at home. They are there for a while before they to the occupational therapist. The occupational therapist helps him complete necessary tasks like getting in and out of the car, getting in and out of the shower, reaching for objects that are beyond his reach, and other daily tasks. Because his profession is writing, they don't need to do that many tasks involving his job. Peyton adores Dr. Lace and how she is patient and deliberate with her instruction. She can see exactly how Lucas was able to make so much progress.

Next stop was Kate's rehab facility. Lucas arrived to group early. He told Peyton it started an hour before it actually began. Kate was always there early, and he needed her. He needed her to help him process through what happened and how he should go about having this discussion with her.

Kate was typing away at her computer with several papers printed out and books opened to specific pages. While she ran group, she was also working towards her PhD to become a professional counselor. She was inspired after her husband to have her own private practice to provide different types of therapies for people who were in similar situations as Lucas. She looked busy, but she could hear someone approaching so she turned around and saw Lucas.
"Wow, someone is early" Lucas just smiled.
"I had a feeling you'd be in your office. But you look busy so I ..."
"No it's cool. This dissertation is not gonna get done in the next hour. I am just surprised to see you here so early. The same guy who thought this group was ... bullshit... is that what you called it day one...?" she said teasing him. He smiles and laughs, when now he knows that's far from the truth. To be honest, this group has been an essential factor towards improving his physical and emotional life.
"You sure you have time to chat?" He asked seemingly overwhelmed in his thoughts and emotions and completely ignores the fact that Kate called him out on his cynical attitude that he showed the first day they met.
"Scott I'm positive. Come closer" she said softly motioning him to move near her chair. "What's going on?"
He didn't know where to start or how to even say it. He hasn't said it out loud to anyone.
"She wants a divorce" was all he muster out of his mouth breaking off eye contact and looking at the floor shamelessly. He could tell Kate was shocked at his news because her eyes widened and sat back on her chair.
"Luke... god..." she puts her hand on his lap. "I... I wasn't expecting this"
"Me either. I'm a wreck. I don't know what to think" he says. "I'm shocked, sad, angry... I just couldn't hear it yesterday. I couldn't be near her. I needed to get away. I couldn't process any of it, and I became the worst possible version of myself Kate. I was horrible yesterday. I calmed down. We were able to sleep side by side, but only because were avoiding a necessary conversation" he was talking so fast rambling on and on. It was evident that he really needed someone to talk to and process this with.
"Wait... Peyton is here?" Kate asked trying to play catch up.
"Yea... divorce papers and all"
"Wow" was all she could say.
"Wow...? That's it. If you want to be a counselor you're gonna need to do better than that"
"Luke, first you're catching me off guard. Also me and you we're... we're friends at this point. I can say that right?" She asks. They never hung out after group. The conversations, discussions, and rides home were the extent of their relationship. But they both needed each other. Luke needed her to push and challenge him in ways that no one else would. She needed him to further her passion in becoming a counselor. She needed him to remind her of the love that she lost, and how this was now her purpose in life to honor her husband and bring lasting change to people who could be impacted by tragic accidents.
"Of course Kate. You're pretty much the only person that I've completely opened up to. That's why I'm here"
"Right I know. It's just right now I'm just thinking about your pain and emotions. I can't imagine. Especially after everything we talked about yesterday. Your love and your inspiration and why you're here," she starts rambling. She felt a part of their love story. She heard so many of his memories and the love thy shared. It reminded her of her and her husband. They were high school sweethearts and had been together for sixteen years before he died at the of 31. "Wait I'm so confused Luke. Why?" She asked.
"She said that she needs to accept that I need to be here in Boston with you, and my physical therapist, and my occupational therapist. She said she knows I can't do this with her or in Tree Hill. She is acknowledging that this decision is what is best for me and what is allowing me to find acceptance in my situation. She kept saying how proud she is of me." Kate slowly nods. "And" he takes a deep breath. "She said that she needs to let me go... and I guess that means in all aspects... in all phases" he finishes. He is looking at Kate for answers or for an understanding.
"Damn" was all she could say.
"C'mon Kate. You're gonna have to do better than these one worded comments."
"Luke she has thought about this. This isn't an emotional, irrational decision. Was she angry? Hurt? Sad?"
"Of course she was sad. She was crying. We kissed, I thought I could convince her that everything would be ok, but she stopped us. We hadn't kissed like that in so long Kate. It felt like it used to. The way she looked at me... the way she felt... everything. It was just like before. Why is she giving up on that?" He asks.
"Because she knows it's fleeting" what she says hurt Lucas and she could tell he is about to argue defending that his feelings are stable. He has always loved this girl. But she stops him from interrupting her by quickly speaking. "Let me explain" and just like that Kate began to do what she does best; help decipher moments and process how he is feeling about them. "I don't mean that your feelings for one another are fleeting. I mean the situation is fleeting. It is isolated. You just said you guys haven't been in that moment in months right" he nods agreeing with her. "Luke from what you described your life before coming to Boston was pretty awful. The drunken nights, the tears, the arguments, the vindictive comments. You became the worst version of yourself. And Peyton responded to that in any way she possibly could. Trying to give you everything you wanted and now trying to give you her space. She is letting you call all the shots." She explains and so far he is agreeing with her. "I'm sure it isn't easy for her to hear voice miles away twice a week. And now... and now you're showing signs of hope and improvement. I don't think she wants to stand in your way" she says trying to explain why his wife is making this life altering decision.
"No. No. How is she standing in my way?"
"Well what else did she say?"
"Nothing, Kate. That's it. She just said that"
"Well I have my theories..."
"Please enlighten me"
"This is hard for her. Just as your her husband and you feel that you need to protect her, love her, and be there in every possible way. She feels the same way as her wife. Just like you think you have failed her. She feels like she failed you. I think she is losing her purpose in all of this. But at the same time she is recognizing that this is what you need. She is putting aside everything that she wants for what you need."
"She did say that. She said that this isn't about what she wants but it's about what she needs to do. She said she wants to be there for me every step of the way, in every sense. But she knows that's not what I need."
"Exactly. She wants you Lucas. She wants all of you and all of your imperfections. Her love isn't in question. She just doesn't know her place in your life right now. She believes she needs to let you go so can figure it out being the mother of your child. You will always be connected to one another. Your child, your bond, and your undying love. You guys will all be connected. And if she needs to let you go, you need to let her. You time in Boston is temporary. We both know that. Her letting you go is temporary. Again it's a reaction to what you need. Everything she has done up until now is a reaction. She is letting you call the shots. It's up to you to make the next move"
"So what if I go back. I go back to Tree Hill and go back home"
"You very well could. I can set up you up with a group like this one and I'm sure your doctors can set you up with doctors near your home" she says giving him an alternate option.
"Do you think I'm ready?" he questions.
"Aw hun, only you can answer that. You got to figure out what you want and what you need. Just like Peyton. Like I said, after talking this out, Peyton thought about this. This isn't an irrational decision. She isn't angry or upset and doing this in retaliation. She is doing this for your family and your future."
"Yea...our future..." he says thinking about what it could possibly look like. "I think about it a lot. Fast forwarding a year or two years or five years. Where we will be. I only see us together" he says.
"That's the story you want then you gotta write it. And it starts with today. Each day matters. You know what you want in the end. Follow your heart. What do you think will allow you both to get there?" she says. He just nods silently appreciating everything that was just discussed. He sat back and sunk into his wheelchair he knew that he still needed time to process through exactly what he wanted and what needed. He need to figure out how was going to live out what he wanted.

"I think I need to stay here" he says. "I don't think I am ready to be back. I just feel like I have started to make good friendships and make improvements in the ways I have wanted. But I have a long way to go" he confesses.

"Just think about how your decision impacts her. Think about what it may do to her in a physical, emotional, psychological level. She is being impacted. You can't ignore that Lucas. I understand that you are in the wheelchair, but she is in pain. She is struggling. She trying to figure out this new life."

"How do you pinpoint how she is feeling, thinking? How do you know her so well?"

"I was her" Kate finishes thinking back to how similar their situation was with her and her husband. Lucas nods, knowing in the back of his mind that he needed to accept what Peyton was asking for.

While the group was in session, Lucas' focus was going through the different options and how those scenarios would play out. Being a writer, he did this a lot with his novels deciphering which plot line would illustrate the message or theme he was trying to convey. The message of their love was that it was forever, and that much that have proven whether they are states away or lying in each other's arms. He was in and out of his own thoughts and listening to the rest of the groups struggles and watched how effortlessly it took Kate to help people process their emotions and decipher how to make the best possible decisions. He knew that if he granted Peyton what she asked that he needed to work even harder in therapy and at home. He needed to focus on his anger and his emotions. He began thinking about everything he wanted to do, and even mentally created short term goals for himself. He realizes the hour is almost over and catches the last part that Kate says to the group.

"Thanks everyone for being so vulnerable today and bringing up all the deep emotions you're feeling. Let's end today on a more positive note. Let's go around the room and share one positive thing that has happened in their life over the past week. We talk so much about what were afraid of and what we want to change but it's important to remember the positives in our lives" Kate reminds the group. They all nod in agreement.

"My daughter told me that she hated me" Nancy began. Everyone look at her shocked considering this was supposed to be a positive moment. "Ok everyone. Relax. Let me explain. I told everyone here that my children weren't the same with me. They were afraid of showing me their feelings... almost as if they were all robotic. But a couple days ago I told her she couldn't go out to the movies because of her grades. She complained about freedom and I complained about her obligation to the family. And she yelled that she hated me. It was a typical teenager mother fight. And I say it's positive because she was finally herself with me. It's the first time since her accident that she was completely and utterly herself. No filter. Just my 11 yr old teenage girl." She explains and everyone smiles at her story. All of them can relate to a friend or family member who isn't completely themselves after an accident leaves their loved one without the ability to walk. Lucas thinks back to the last time where Peyton was completely and utterly herself, but he couldn't remember a time prior to his accident. Peyton was walking on egg shells, faking smiles, putting up a front for months. He knew it and could completely relate to Nancy's want and need for her loved ones to be themselves. In that moment he knew Kate was right. He couldn't begin to understand what it was like for his wife, pregnant, to be living alone in their empty house.

Lucas must have missed several people because he was about to share soon. He knew exactly was positive moment he was going to share. But it was now Andres turn.

"So as you know I've shared some of my family problems and issues with support I've been having with my girl. And I haven't shared this with the group, but I know it's a good thing for me. I found a wheelchair basketball league a couple weeks ago. It's a really good work out and we can get pretty competitive out there. It lets out frustration and gets my mind off some issues. It gives me something to look forward to. We have games once a week, but we organize informal practices and workouts and it's really been special" Lucas listens to this man who usually is so pessimistic about his circumstances talking highly about something he is passionate about.

It was Lucas' turn and he knew exactly what he wanted to say.

"A positive thing that has happened this week is a strong bond that has formed within this group. Kate…this is for you. You have taught me how to be vulnerable and how to open up to my feelings. You have helped me explore deep down in my heart and helped me process my decisions using both reasoning and passion. I am so grateful towards this group and our friendship. Thank you"

As he finishes speaking, he notices from afar a familiar woman walking towards the group. This wasn't any particular woman, this was the woman who had a hold on his heart. She walks in and immediately makes eye contact with her husband, and his heart beats fast. He starts to get nervous and anxious. He knew she'd be picking him up. He told her to come in, but he forgot that she would have this effect on him. He wanted to let her see that he was improving and that there was a reason to hold on to him. He wanted the group and this session to impress her. He wanted Kate to impress her. She needed to really understand why he needed to stay here.

"Lucas…Lucas" Kate has called him a couple times until she finally meets what he is staring at. Immediately she knows that's Peyton. "Welcome. You must be Peyton" and with that the entire group stares at the new person in the room. They all know exactly who she is since Lucas speaks about her frequently. She hears people whispering to one another. She thinks about what Lucas must share in the group. Their stares and the fact that they know her make her feel uncomfortable. She looks around and then fixates back to her husband. This is the group that he has been raving about, she couldn't be a complete bitch, but then again, she didn't want to be intrude on their personal time.

"Hello everyone. I guess I am early. I really don't want to intrude on your time together. Lucas I can wait in the car" she is about to turn around feeling strange that a room of 12 different people were staring at her and watching every move.

"Don't be silly. We are just finishing up. Feel free to stay. Please" Kate said. She seemed genuine, which Peyton wasn't surprised, so she took a seat outside the group's circle in the back.

"Well thank you everyone for that session and ending on a positive note. Please remember that while we all struggle, we all have our silver lining. Whether it's a new relationship, a new organization, or the small moments with our friends and families please cherish these moments. They don't take away from your pain or your frustrations or the emotions you may feel on a daily basis, but if you could end each night remembering one positive moment of your day, then you're already having a better mindset. You are giving yourself a better head space. Ok the last thing. I want to challenge you all to try something new during the week. Today is Monday, and by Sunday I want everyone to take a risk and try something new. This could be a new organization, forming a new friend, or a new activity. Anything where you are putting yourself out there in a new and different way. Does anyone have an idea or something they'd like to share with the group?"

Pete raises his hand. "I want to finally take my girl out on a date. It's been awhile and I keep putting it off and making excuses. May be we will do a dinner out by the Italian side of town. She loves pasta"

"Great Pete. I know it's been difficult for you to do things with Annie. That's great. Anyone else?"

"I need to reach out to my parents" Andre chimed. "We got into fights while I was dedicating my life to football, and then after my accident the fights got worse. A lot of I told you so, and not much support for what I am going to do with my life. I want to rebuild that relationship. I think the first step to that is calling my mom" Andrew completed.

"Great! Anyone else?" There were no other takers so she decided to end the session. "The rest of you make sure you challenge yourself to one new club, activity, or developing a new relationship. We will checking in on this by Sunday. That's all I got for you. Feel free to get some refreshments, check out the meditation room, talk amongst yourselves. Otherwise, I will see you all tomorrow by 4:30." Kate concludes, and everyone goes about their way. Some people stick around and talk to one another. A couple people are on a rush to go about their day. Nancy always ends in the meditation room. As always she goes to Lucas and hugs him. This time she is sure to say how beautiful his wife is. He thanks her, before moving to Peyton.

"So what did you think?" he asks.

"I can see why you love this dynamic. I wasn't expecting this to be honest. This is like a country club" she says admiring the set up, the flowers, the decor, and everything. "I also didn't know about all the programs they have here"

"I told you it was nice Peyt" he shrugs.

Kate approached Lucas and Peyton cautiously. She wasn't sure what their status was, but she wanted to meet the infamous Peyton. As she got closer she overheard Peyton Lucas about the meditation and other programs at the facility.

"You didn't tell me that they meditation?"

"What difference does it make? We don't meditate." Lucas said.

"That's not the point. I envisioned you guys at a church basement with stale donuts" Lucas chuckles. This was the Peyton he missed. The one that occasionally made inappropriate comments, not afraid to express exactly what she was thinking. Nearby they both heard Kate chuckle as well. They turn and meet eye contact with the brunette. "Oh sorry. No one was supposed to hear that" Peyton said.

"No. I think that's a world renowned stereotype of support groups. Creepy, sketchy basement with burnt coffee" Kate confirms.

"Flight Clubs fault" Peyton says and they all smile and chuckle once more.

"Well I'd love to show you all the facilities we have. You know to debunk the stereotype and maybe get to know you. If that's ok with you two."

"Yea go ahead. I wanna talk with Dre before he leaves"

"That sounds great" Peyton says. She wants to get to know Kate, but knows that Kate has been Lucas' confidant through the last 4 weeks, and is afraid what she knows and how she perceives her.

Kate went through the facilities that are offered at the program. There are three different rooms for three different support groups: cancer, drug addiction, and of course the group that she runs, paraplegics. Kate showed her the outdoor garden, the indoor meditation room, the gym, their kitchen, and her office.

"So this is where I want to add some counseling suites. I want to add one on one therapy by clinicians to help individualize treatment for the person"

"This is incredible. And Luke told me that your husband started this?"

"Yea he was in construction. After his injury, he was able to gain a lot of support through all his contacts. It took awhile but we didn't have to pay for any of the construction or work that was done. Ty basically was the architect and behind the scene guy. He had this vision towards treatment and rehab for people who struggled. Ty battled cancer his entire life, when he got into his accident, he battled with drug addiction. He wanted a facility to tackle all three in a holistic approach. That's why we have weights, meditation, and even yoga on the weekends"

"Wow and you are the leader for all three?" Peyton questioned.

"No. Not anymore, I hired someone to take over the cancer and drug addiction support group. I want to get my license in counseling. Eventually I will just be doing individual counseling and giving individual treatment and make it more into a private practice. Someone will need to take over this group"

"Lucas always talks about how strong you are. I definitely see what he means. I don't know how you do it. For me, it's been…difficult"

"I know" is all Kate can see in agreement.

"He told you didn't he"

"He did"

"And you think I am a horrible person"

Kate smiles. "Absolutely not. I have learned that you can't judge anyone for their decisions when they are confronted with a situation like this"

"What happened to your husband?"

"He was diagnosed with colon cancer at 25. Pretty fucked up right? He wasn't given long. Being the adventurous, optimistic guy he is, we both went to Costa Rica the summer he found out. He wanted to enjoy himself before the chemo. We were in the ocean diving off these cliffs. He got too ambitious and dove off a rock that was about 25 ft from the water, and he landed in the water on his spine. He was laying there motionless. I thought the wind got knocked out of him, but he didn't move after a minute. I jumped in and got him to shore. His legs didn't work after that. The cancer, the accident...Talk about bad luck or a shitty hand that was dealt to him. He was my high school sweetheart, but it was almost impossible at times. Even when he battled his addiction to pain killers for awhile. This group really saved him."

"How were you able to handle it?"

"Not well. Sleepless nights. Nights I stayed with my sister. Nights I was angry…sad…lonely… It's difficult." she repeats what Peyton said. "He never let thought. I would though. There were days I needed breaks. Even weeks where I needed breaks."

"How are you now?"

"Better than you'd think. I have no regrets Peyton. And that's my wish for everyone in my group. Don't leave with regrets. Things for really bad for Ty. But during the last 5 years of his life, we were never happier. The start of this facility helped him. He gained a purpose, and we were helping others, and helping ourselves through the process. I have no regrets. He died in my arms" Kate takes a deep breath and starts to tear up. Peyton grabs her hand and squeezes it.

"I'm sorry. You don't have to"

"No it's good to remember him…to remember our love. Like I said don't have regrets. If you have something to say, say it. If you need to do something, do it. You never know when it will be too late."

"I'm surprised Luke hasn't told me about your husband, he really does talk about you a lot."

"He doesn't know the full story."

"Really?"

"You are pretty much a constant topic in our conversations"

"That worries me. I don't know how he views me. I wonder constantly if he thinks I have failed him or if I am not good enough"

"That's nothing further than the truth. He pretty much thinks your perfect."

"Now…not so much"

"He is just emotional Peyton. Whatever he said yesterday I am sure was irrational and emotional. It's not what he feels towards you. He loves you with his entire heart. Trust me. I feel like I am invested in your love story" Kate smiles. "What you guys got is special. What you are going through now is just temporary."

"I hope you are right"

"Lucas has got some decisions he needs to make. Let him know that you love him though. Tell him. Don't make him doubt it." Peyton nods. She wonders why she said that. Did he doubt how she felt about him? Or was she just talking in general? Peyton realized that she didn't make that clear last night.

"Thank you" Peyton says. "Thank you so much" and with that she pull Kate into a hug. "Please take care of him" she whispers.

"Only for now" Kate responds. Of course she will take care of him, but it is temporary, and Peyton needs to know that. She needs to understand that. She can feel Peyton nod against her. Peyton lets go of her and just looks at her. "You know you're everything Lucas says you are."

"I don't feel that way"

"I know. It's hard to feel that way when you can't fix this. You feel hopeless and tired, and nothing seems to be working." Peyton just nods. "I understand why you're making the decision you're making. I understand the need to have control over something in your life when everything else has been dictated for you. Just don't have any regrets. That's the one piece of advice I can't emphasize enough."

"Lucas was right. You are going to be an amazing therapist. I mean you basically are. Just need the paper"

"Thanks Peyton."

"No thank you. For everything"

Lucas and Peyton got into the car on their way home. They were silent for the majority of the time both collecting their thoughts, and thinking about the separate conversations they had with Kate, and how to process through them. Lucas thought back to what Peyton had said yesterday discussing what they need rather than what they want. He was trying to think about what he wanted to say and how he wanted to say it, when Peyton interrupted his thought process.

"Lucas…I" she begins wants to finish the conversation, but Lucas stops her.

"Peyton…not now. I know we need to talk. I know. Can we just wait until we get home?" Lucas asks. She nods in return to his request. In that moment Lucas rests his head back on the seat and his hand moves towards Peyton's hand. He put it on top of hers. She responds quickly to his touch meeting his hand and interlocking her fingers with his. He looks at her and she looks at him. Their eyes lock and in that brief moment they have an understanding that they are going to enjoy the silence, the comfort, and the peace that is in the car. They know what awaits them once they open the conversation, and neither is ready for it. For the fifteen minute car ride, words aren't spoken. Occasionally Lucas' thumb would rub against her hand. A couple times he brought their hands to his lips and put a soft kiss on her hand. They locked eyes a couple more times. They were content in each other's presence.

As Peyton approached the house, she let go of Lucas' hands to put the car in park. She put both hands on the staring wheel, took a deep breath, and became reluctant to open the car door. Lucas opened the door but noticed Peyton hadn't moved.

"Peyton…" he called her, but she refused to look at him. "Peyton…" he repeated. He let go of the door handle and moved more towards her. "Come here" he says. And with that he grabs her into a hug. He puts one hand on her neck and the other is rubbing her back up and down. His warmth and security are felt immediately, leading her to begin crying.

"I love you so much" she says. "I didn't tell you yesterday. But I love you" she pulls away from the hug to stare directly at him. "I love you" she repeats herself. She moves towards his lips and kisses him which takes him by surprise. She places her forehead against his. She kisses him once more. These kisses are different than yesterday's. Yesterday's were fueled by want, desire, and passion to explore each other's bodies in the way they missed and earned for. Today her kisses were innocent, loving, and tender. He needed to hear that and needed to feel that from her.

"I know" is all he says. Because he does know. He has always known.

"When you say I am giving up, or I don't care, or I wanted this, Lucas you need to know that..."

"Peyton I know. I ... I never doubted your love, your care, your desires, your wants. I was an asshole yesterday. The anger can get so bad Peyton. I wanted to see you in pain, and that is so fucked up. I hate myself when I do that. I really do hate it."

"You're allowed to be angry Luke. I know what I am doing is causing you pain, and I am sorry"

"We're both in pain. We're both struggling. And I don't know if I have acknowledged that. I know I had the accident, but I am going about my life like you aren't physically, emotionally, and psychologically effected. And I am sorry for that. I was thinking about what you said yesterday. About how you never know who to be on the phone when we talk. I was thinking…when was the last time you were completely yourself? Your honest and true self?" he asked. His question surprises her and isn't sure how to answer that. "You don't have to answer that. It is more of a question I am wondering. It must be hard to fake who you are every time you are with me or talking to me" he concludes. He is right. It is very fucking hard. But he needed to know what she wasn't faking it now.

"I can't fake or pretend this" she said. She grabbed his hand and placed it on her heart. It was rapidly beating. "Our love and our passion and what I am feeling when you touch me. This is me Luke. And I love this"

"Me too"

"When we kiss" she kisses him again. "Or when you were playing with my hair last night. Or when you speak to me full of emotions whether it is anger or love" This is what happens" she explain. "It beats for you. It only wants you." she needed him to understand that her feelings for him wouldn't alter.

"I love you" he says kissing her slightly on the lips and resting his forehead against hers. "You got me thinking last night and today exactly what I need and what I want. You shared it with me yesterday, and I wasn't in the right headspace to tell you. I am now. I'd love to have what you want. I'd love to go home with you and be there for the appointments, to be in bed with you, to do everything with you. And I thought about this. This could be a decision I were to make. I could move back to Tree Hill. But then I worry that I'll have another drunken night, I will say hurtful things, I will make you cry, I will cause you stress, I will be a ungrateful asshole. And you don't deserve that"

"Lucas I will take all of your imperfections. That is what a marriage is. I just want you. I want all of you. I want the Lucas, the passionate, gifted writer. I want stubborn, moody man. I want the love. I want the arguments. I want everything" she repeats from last night.

"But Peyton, you need to understand that I don't want that. I moved here for a specific reason. I can't come back. Not yet. Yes, I've made improvements, but I still have my really bad nights I can't have you see that. It makes it all worse for me. Selfishly I want you to accept that. I want to be able to call you my wife and call you when it is convenient for me so I can tell you all the positive progress I am making. I don't want to tell you about the struggles or the pain I am going through. But I understand that this is selfish. Me wanting you in a specific way isn't fair to you. I can't have everything that I need without a thought of what is best for you. So if you need to let me go, then I need to let you." she is shocked when he finishes with that last piece.

"What made you change your mind?"

"It's a piece of paper. It's a title. And if that's what you need to move on and be healthy and be happy, then that's fine with me. That paper and that title doesn't take away what I feel or what you mean to me.. No matter what. We're always going to be Lucas and Peyton. True love always. Whether the paper is signed or not"

"It's always going to be there…you and me"

"Always. And one more thing. Yesterday, you said that I didn't need you, and I want to say that this is the furthest thing from the truth"

"Lucas..."

"Peyton. Please, let me finish. Peyton I need you more than you know. You are the reason I am here. You are the reason I am striving to be a better man. You are the reason I am writing a novel again. You are my inspiration. You have inspired me as a 16 year old boy. And you continue to inspire me. Whether you are in Tree Hill or you're in Boston, I need you. I need the thought of you, your presence, your memories, and hope for our future. And I need that inspiration in my life, always."

"Lucas…"

"I love you" he interrupts her to make sure she knows. "Nothing can change it Peyt. So if you need me to sign. I will sign. If you need to let me go while I am here, then I need you to do that. I will be the first person there when this little guy is ready to come out and face the world. Our child won't see anything that you had to deal with. I promise" he vowed. She wanted to say that she could handle those fights and late night arguments, but she knew that was an endless battle that she cannot win. His pride was too strong to stay in Tree Hill and let his wife see him struggle and fail. He refused to go back to Tree until he was ready. And because of that he needed to grant Peyton what she needed to take care of herself. This was the least he could do. He fully believed in his heart that the title didn't make a difference. Whether the courts or judge or the entire country viewed their relationship as "divorced" didn't bother him in the slightest. She loved him, and he felt all of her love. And he loved her, he knew that for a fact. That was all that mattered. He knew their love, their connection, their passion would be spark up again. It was up to him to work on each day in between in order to get the future that wanted.

They got back in the house and Karen was preparing a dinner for them. The entire night felt like they were home in Tree Hill. Lily spoke about day at school. Andy talked about work, and they were all appreciating the flavor and taste of a home-cooked meal. Lucas and Peyton sat together in unison. After dinner, they all helped to clean the dishes and Karen excused her to get some sleep and left the two blondes together at the table.

"Thanks for today" he said.

"Thank you"

"Listen I'm gonna go change and lay down. I may do some writing."

"Ok that's fine. "

"My mom said that Andy will take you to the airport. My mom will take me to therapy"

"Ok"

"Ok" He move towards his room, stopping right before he gets and looks back at her. She is preparing the couch with sheets and blankets that Karen gave her. "Don't be stupid" he said and motions her to come to his bedroom. She remembers when she said to him back in the motel room over nine years ago. He disappears in his room before she has a chance to respond. She hesitates for a couple minutes wondering if this would just make everything harder, but she ends up following him. He turns towards her looking at his watched. "Two minutes. I thought you'd have more self control than that" he says smiling at her. She laughs looking away. She missed how they used to tease one another. She missed that he knew her so damn well. She looks around and notices how the room is decorated. It still seemed like a guest room. It didn't have his personal items, his books, his music, or anything. Only his computer and two pictures: one of the first ultrasound of their baby, and one of the two of them from their honeymoon. She walked around not knowing where to go or stand; the entire room was foreign to her. She walks towards the picture and holds it and smiles. He goes towards on the opposite end of the bed and gets himself on the bed. He moves the covers so she can come to bed, which she does.

"Just sleep" she says.

"Just sleep." He agrees. "Even though I was mad last night, I still wanted you close. Even if it's just for a couple days." She nods in agreement letting sliding under the covers and letting her head hit the pillow.

"Haven't slept that well in awhile"

"Me too. Do you mind if I grab my computer and type for a bit. Need to get something down before I forget it."

"Not at all" she smiles remembering when he would do this back when he wrote his other books. "What's it about?" she questions looking at him. She loved hearing the sneak peek to all of his books.

"Overcoming obstacles" he says. He isn't lying, but isn't telling her the full truth. Peyton closed her eyes and allowed sleep to overcome her. She was satisfied with their talk, she knew that what occurred today was the best that it was going to get between the two of them. At least for now. Lucas continued typing away, briefly gazing at the woman that this entire novel would be about.

Peyton falls asleep, and for the second day in a row she sleeps the entirety of the night. She was free from tears, anger, and worry about their future. As she awakes, she is alone and nearby she seems a familiar letter and on the bottom she sees a signature: Lucas Eugene Scott.

She made her bed, and now she had to lie in it.

A/N: Chapter 14 will be a month or two jump so I can get move along this book storyline. Let me know if you have any questions or feedback. Thanks!