Title: What's My Damage Today?

Author: LoveandFury

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Disclaimer: Popular does not belong to me. I own nothing.

Chapter One

Brooke McQueen and Nicole Julian were in Nicole's bed room talking about Brooke's current problem. Nicole was sitting on her bed and Brooke was burning a hole in the floor.

"I don't believe this," Brooke said to her best friend, Nicole. "First my dad announces his engagement to Sam's mother and now they're moving in together!"

"Well, hun, they would've eventually moved in together seeing as how they're getting married," Nicole pointed out.

"But Nicole, if Sam's mom moves in with us so does Sam," Brooke said. "The girl I dated for two months. My ex-girlfriend! And Josh is already upset about it. He thinks Sam will like walk into the bathroom while I'm showering or something."

"Tell your dad why you don't want that fashion reject in your house," Nicole suggested. "I mean, he already knows you're bi."

"But he doesn't know I dated Sam," Brooke stopped pacing. "Argh, this isn't fair. Of all people to fall in love with he chooses my ex's mother."

"Parents ruin everything," Nicole sighed. "You need a major shopping spree to make you feel better. Are you up for it?"

"Of course," Brooke perked up. "Let's go."

McPherson Residence..

Harrison, Carmen, and Lily were helping Sam pack her things.

"I can't believe my mom is making me move in with Brooke McQueen," Sam said putting her valuables into a box marked with her name. "We'll kill each other if we have to see one another everyday."

"Maybe you should tell your mom you have a history with Brooke," Carmen suggested.

"Yeah Sam," Lily said. "She already knows you swing both ways."

"Hey mom, I just can't live in the McQueen Palace. I dated Mike's daughter and the house will just make me remember all the times we made out on the couch for hours or groped each other in her bed room. Besides, if my mom knew I dated my soon to be step-sister she'd freak out."

"Good point," Carmen said as she taped one of Sam's boxes shut.

"Hey, let's go to the mall and we'll each chip in to buy you a cd or something," Harrison said. "How about it?"

"I'm in," Lily said.

"Me too," Carmen said.

"Majority rules," Sam sighed. "I guess I'm going."

An hour later at the mall.

Brooke and Nicole were each carrying one bag in their hands. Brooke had bought a pair of jeans and Nicole had gotten herself a Gucci purse.

"Where to now?" Brooke asked as she walked in step with Nicole.

"I'm dying for a drink," Nicole said. "I'm gonna get myself a smoothie."

"I could use a drink too. We passed the food court a couple of minutes ago." They turned around abruptly which caused Brooke to bump into someone and drop her shopping bag.

"Look Brooke, it's Spam and her loser friends," Nicole said with a fake happiness.

"Bite me," Lily spat.

"I just might," Nicole smirked.

Lily gave Nicole a strange look and pulled Harrison in front of her.

"You should watch we're you're going," Brooke said coldly.

"You bumped into me," Sam clarified. "You're the one who needs to watch we're they're going."

"Whatever," Brooke picked up her bag. "I hope you're not this much trouble when we unfortunately move in together."

"Don't worry," Sam said. "I'll stay out of your way if you stay out of mine."

"Its been fun chatting with ya but we can't give you fashion tips today," Nicole said. "Maybe next time." Nicole and Brooke pushed passed the four teens and continued to the food court.

"I can't live with her. I'll go insane," Sam muttered.

"I just thought of something even worse," Harrison said. "What if Nicole and even Mary Cherry go to Brooke's house a lot? You'll never elude the popular girls."

"I'll lock myself in my room," Sam said. "Forever."

"Let's go get that CD and get out of here before we bump into those two again," Carmen said. "No pun intended."

Back at Sam's Place.

"Sam, do you have everything packed?" Jane asked as she walked into Sam's room.

"Pretty much," Sam sighed. "Mom, think this over. Are you sure you want to move in with Mike?"

"Sam, we discussed this already," Jane said. "I know you and Brooke don't get along, but given some time you two will be grateful for the other's company."

"That will never happen," Sam sat down on her bed. "So, when do I meet my doom?"

"We're moving in on Saturday," Jane responded.

"What's today?" Sam asked.

"Friday," Jane walked out of her daughter's room.

"Less than 24 hours of freedom," Sam said to herself.

~~~~~

"But what if she's a total slob?" Brooke asked. "I can't share a bathroom with her."

"Where is she going to bathe, Brooke?" Mike asked his daughter.

"There's a hose outside," Brooke stated.

"Brooke," Mike rubbed his face with his hands. "Please, let Sam feel welcome when she gets here tomorrow. Show her around and be nice."

"She already knows where everything is," Brooke said.

"She does?" Mike asked.

"Uh, yeah," Brooke mentally kicked herself. "We uh, had a project to do together and she got nosey and looked around. You were out at a conference somewhere."

"Oh," Mike said. "Well, just try to be nice. Okay?"

"Okay," Brooke said. "I have homework to do. I should get started."

Mike gave his daughter a hug and left her room.

Tomorrow is going to be a long day. Brooke thought.

Chapter Two

Sam was all moved in and she was now in her room on the cordless phone talking to Carmen.

"We argued about who was getting the right side of the sink," Sam said. "Who argues about something like that?"

"Apparently you and Brooke," Carmen answered. "You two need to work out your problems if you plan on living together with as little stress as possible."

"Brooke thinks she's better than everyone. I don't know why I ever dated her," Sam sighed.

"Because you liked her and she liked you," Carmen pointed out. "You dated for two months. You can't go from "I love you" to "I hate you" in point two seconds."

"We had a fall out," Sam said. "Everything happened so fast. I'm over it."

Brooke barged into Sam's room and grabbed the phone from her hand. "Sam has to go now. Bye." Brooke hit the off button.

"What the hell is wrong with you?" Sam yelled.

"You've been on the phone forever," Brooke said.

"You could've asked me to get off nicely," Sam said. "It's not like you're calling anyone important."

"I'm calling Josh," Brooke said. "We have a date tonight. And don't search my room looking for dirt to write in the school paper while I'm gone."

Just because you said not to I'm going to do it. Sam thought. "I have better things to do with my time McQueen," Sam said.

Brooke went to her room and called her boyfriend.

Brooke was out with Josh and Sam was now headed for Brooke's bedroom. "Where to start, where to start," Sam looked around and decided to look through the drawers. She found nothing of interest. "Hm.the closet." Sam opened Brooke's closet and saw a shoe box sitting in the corner all by itself. "Score!" She grabbed the shoe box and sat down on the floor with her back leaning against Brooke's bed. When she opened the box the first thing she saw was the bracelet she had given the blonde. Then she saw a picture of her and Brooke at the beach. Brooke was standing behind Sam with her arms wrapped around her waist, Sam's head was kind of titled to the left and Brooke's chin was resting on her shoulder. "I thought she burned all the pictures she had of me," Sam said to herself. Sam sighed letting herself remember the day the picture was taken.

Brooke and Sam were at the beach with Sam's friends. Nicole and Mary Cherry had refused to hang out with anyone not of the popular status. Sam and Brooke were holding hands as they walked along the beach. Sam was wearing a baby blue tank top and black shorts. Brooke had on a pink shirt and white shorts.

"I like being with you," Brooke said. "It's nice."

"I like being with you too," Sam smiled.

Brooke stopped walking. "The ocean's beautiful isn't it?"

"Yeah," Sam said turning to look at the ocean.

Brooke went behind Sam and wrapped her arms around her waist and rested her chin on Sam's shoulder. "You smell good."

"I smell like you," Sam had never felt so content in her life.

"You guys are adorable!" Carmen exclaimed. "Let me take your picture."

Sam and Brooke smiled at the camera.

"I love you," Brooke whispered to Sam.

"I love ya too," Sam whispered back.

"Say cheese," Carmen instructed.

Sam dropped the picture back in the box and looked through it some more. She spotted another piece of jewelry. This time it was a necklace. her necklace. Brooke had bought it for her and she had given it back the day they broke up. She and Brooke had been arguing over everything over the past three weeks and then everything went to Hell. Sam once again let her mind take its little trip down memory lane.

"God, Brooke, why are you being such a bitch?" Sam yelled.

"Oh, I don't know Sam, maybe it's because you're not listening to me!" Brooke yelled back.

"I am listening! You're breaking this relationship off," Sam said.

"But do you understand why?" Brooke asked.

"No, I don't understand why!" Sam shouted.

"We're two totally different people and it's messing up our relationship," Brooke said. "And we've been arguing like mad lately. It's just not working."

"Did you rehearse those lines with Nicole?" Sam asked furiously.

"I didn't rehearse anything!" Brooke snapped.

"I should've known you couldn't handle a real relationship," Sam said. "You can go run to the first athlete you see for all I care. I never want to speak to you again!"

"Fine with me!" Brooke yelled. "I never cared about you anyway."

"Feeling's mutual," Sam ripped the necklace from around her neck and dropped it on the floor of Brooke's living room.

Sam shook her head to clear her mind. She knew Brooke had only really dumped her because she couldn't handle the pressures of being popular and not dating someone "acceptable" in Nicole's words. But before they had even broken up they had started fighting immensely. Sam closed the box and put it back where she found it. As Sam was exiting Brooke's room through the bathroom she came across her mother.

"What were you doing in Brooke's room?" Jane asked.

"I got lost," Sam mumbled.

"Sam, I hope you didn't do anything you weren't suppose to," Jane said.

"I didn't mom," Sam sighed.

"Alright, you look tired," Jane commented. "You should get some sleep."

Sam just nodded and continued to her room.

Chapter Three

~Disclaimer: "Cheerleaders are dancers gone retarded" is a quote from the "Bring It On" movie.~

~~~~~

"Brooke get out of the bathroom!" Sam banged on the door.

Brooke yanked the door open. "I'm not done yet." She slammed the door in Sam's face and the brunette began to pound on the door again.

"Sam, stop that!" Jane said exiting her room.

"What's the matter?" Mike said leaving the room also.

"Brooke is hogging the bathroom," Sam complained.

"Brooke get out so Sam can have the bathroom," Mike ordered.

Seconds later Brooke walked out of the bathroom and went downstairs without a word. Sam went inside and slammed the door shut.

"We need to find a way to make those two bond," Mike sighed.

"Good luck with that," Jane said as she went back to her and Mike's room.

Kennedy High.

"Just because it takes her two minutes to get ready doesn't mean I'm gonna take the same amount of time," Brooke said as she walked the halls of Kennedy High with Nicole.

"I didn't even know Spam took showers," Nicole commented. "She always looks dirty. Anyway, how was your date with Josh?"

"It was great," Brooke smiled. "Josh is so romantic."

"Anything planned for tonight?" Nicole asked.

"Nope," Brooke said. "He has a family thing to go to."

"Hey y'all," Mary Cherry ran up to her two friends. "Did you see the school paper yet? We made the front page."

Nicole grabbed the paper out of Mary Cherry's hand. There was a picture of MC, Nicole, and Brooke on the cover. Above their picture was the title "Cheerleaders Are Dancers Gone Retarded."

"That bitch," Nicole said angrily.

"Read the article about us," Mary Cherry said.

"Blah, blah, blah, are the three most arrogant people. blah, blah, blah. actually believe what they wear is fashionable. I mean, come on, who wears a mink coat when it's burning outside? Blah, blah.. and in the words of an "outsider," these three brats are destined to become alcoholic housewives." Nicole read aloud.

"We're famous y'all!" Mary Cherry beamed.

"Mary Cherry, keep your trap shut and follow us," Nicole said.

"Sam is going down," Brooke said.

Everyone moved out of the way as Brooke, Mary Cherry, and Nicole made their way over to Sam's locker. When they got there Nicole slammed Sam's locker closed barely missing her hand.

"What's your drama?" Sam asked sharply.

"Oh, I think you know," Nicole said coldly.

"Nice article," Brooke said throwing the paper at Sam.

The teens in the hallway all became silent and watched the exchange between Sam and her enemies.

"I thought you'd like it," Sam said.

"We all know you're just jealous of us," Nicole said.

"Very jealous," Mary Cherry agreed.

Sam laughed. "Oh yeah, I'm real jealous."

"It's a difficult thing being popular," Nicole said. "You have no idea about the things we go through."

"We don't need people like you writing shit about us," Brooke added.

"You're making it sound like you are living the hardest lives," Sam said. "It's not that hard to pretend to be someone you're not. You're all fake."

"You don't have your three geek friends around to save you from getting your ass kicked so you better watch what comes out of that mouth of yours," Nicole said threateningly.

"On the contrary," Harrison said coming out of the crowd that had gathered with Carmen by his side.

"Well, well, well," Nicole said. "Looks like I spoke to soon. Forest Gump and Barney have arrived."

Harrison stared menacingly at Nicole. "Don't you have a street corner with your name on it somewhere?"

"Nicole, I think he just called you a prostitute!" Mary Cherry shouted.

"Do you think just because you're a guy I won't enforce bodily harm on your scrawny ass?" Nicole asked.

"Nicole, shut up," Carmen said. "You are such an annoying bitch."

"Don't start with me, Ferrara," Nicole snapped. "I will chop you down like a tree."

Lily had come into school late and saw her friends arguing with the blondes and went over there as quickly as possible.

"What's going on?" Lily asked her friends.

"Sam's article," Harrison answered simply.

"Well, the gang's all here," Nicole said.

"Since you're all here I have something to say," Brooke began. "We're better than you. Accept it and continue on with your trivial lives. Stop talking about us every chance you get."

"No one talks about you as much as you think," Sam said. "The world does not revolve around you."

Brooke stepped closer to Sam. "You better watch your step, Sam."

"Is that suppose to scare me?" Sam raised an eyebrow. "You're gonna have to try a little harder than that."

"Don't tempt me," Brooke warned. "If you get on my bad side more than you already have. I. Will. Destroy. You," Brooke emphasized her words by poking Sam in the shoulder.

Sam swatted Brooke's hand away and pushed her back. "Don't touch me."

Brooke pushed Sam back. "And you don't push me."

Josh and Sugar Daddy entered the fight now.

"Don't even waste your time with these twerps," Josh said putting an arm over Brooke's shoulder as he stared hard at Sam.

"Let's go before the Principal hears us," SD said.

As the popular group left, the crowd that had formed dispersed.

"Argh!" Sam yelled in anger. "I hate them!"

"You're not the only one," Carmen sighed. "But there's nothing we can do about them. Let's get going."

Chapter Four

Josh was at his locker when George, a fellow football player came up to him.

“Hey, Ford,” George greeted.

“What’s up, George,” Josh closed his locker and turned to his friend.

“Is Sam single?” George asked.

“McPherson?” Josh asked shocked.

“Yeah, in our chem class,” George said.

“Yeah, she’s single,” Josh said. “But wouldn’t you prefer Nicole, Poppy, or even Mary Cherry?”

“No,” George shook his head. “I really like Sam. She’s different. Is it true that Brooke dated her?”

“Unfortunately,” Josh sighed.

“I would never peg Brooke as being bi,” George said.

“Well, she told me she isn’t really bi. She just really had a thing for Sam,” Josh said.

“You don’t like Sam do you, Ford?” George asked.

“She dated my girl and now they’re living in the same house,” Josh pointed out. “Of course I don’t like her.”

“Do you think I’d have a chance with her?” George asked.

“I guess,” Josh shrugged.

“Cool, I’ll see you later,” George walked off in search of Sam.

Sam was almost to her car when she heard her name. When she turned around she saw George headed her way.

“Hey, George,” Sam said.

“Hey,” George said stopping in front of the brunette. “I was wondering if you might want to maybe go out with me.”

“Like on a date?” Sam asked raising an eyebrow.

George nodded.

“Like a boyfriend, girlfriend date?” Sam asked. “Is this a joke? Did one of those prissy cheerleaders put you up to this?”

“No… no,” George said. “I just like you. If you need time to think about it I’ll-,”

“No, I’d love to go on a date with you,” Sam smiled.

“Great, tonight at eight then?” George asked.

“Sure,” Sam nodded. “Um, should I like dress fancy or something?”

“You can dress casually,” George responded. “Just be yourself.”

Sam nodded. “Okay, I’ll see you tonight.”

Sam was done getting ready for her date. She walked into the kitchen and spun around so her mom could rate her. She had on red, baggy pants and a white tank top. “This isn’t too casual is it? Should I wear a skirt?”

“You look fine, Sammy,” Jane smiled.

“Thanks mom,” Sam said.

“So, when will I get to meet this George guy?” Jane asked.

“I don’t know,” Sam shrugged.

“Well now you and Brooke are both dating football players,” Jane pointed out. “You have something in common.”

Sam rolled her eyes.

Brooke walked into the kitchen and went over to the fridge. She grabbed a bottle of water and looked at Sam. “Where are you going?” She asked as she brought the bottle up to her lips.

“I have a date,” Sam answered and left for her car.

Brooke choked on her water when she heard Sam say that. “Who’s she going on a date with?”

“Some guy named George,” Jane replied.

Brooke bolted out the house to catch up with Sam.

“George asked you out?” Brooke asked.

“Yeah,” Sam opened her car door.

“Why?” Brooke asked.

“Because he likes me and I like him,” Sam replied.

“Since when?” Brooke asked. “I’ve never heard you talk about him.”

“I don’t run around announcing my crushes, Brooke,” Sam rolled her eyes. “Why are you bothering me with these questions?”

“I’m just surprised you’re going out on a date,” Brooke said.

“What?” Sam said. “You can date but I can’t?”

“I didn’t say that?” Brooke said angrily.

“Whatever, you moved on Brooke and so have I,” Sam got into her car, started it, and drove off.

Brooke went back into her house, grabbed the phone, and went upstairs to her room to call Nicole.

“Hello?” Nicole answered.

“You’re not going to believe this,” Brooke said into the phone. “George Austin and Sam are an item now.”

“That stud muffin is dating Spam?” Nicole asked shocked. “What is it that you popular people see in her? First she seduces you and now George. What is the world coming to?”

“She didn’t seduce me,” Brooke said.

“Anyway, George will probably see how much trouble she is and dump her,” Nicole said.

“Well, I’m going to go. I’ll tell you what happened on their date tomorrow.” Brooke hung up the phone and decided to listen to some music. She didn’t want to listen to anything she had so she went to Sam’s room to grab a CD. While looking for a CD Brooke came across Sam’s journal. She grabbed it and went back to her room. She flipped through it until she saw an entry that caught her interest. She began to read the entry in her head…

Brooke McQueen asked me out this morning. I wasn’t sure what to say at first because Brooke’s a girl and so am I. It would’ve been kind of weird… but Brooke’s the only girl I’ve ever lusted over. When it comes to her I don’t think gender matters, so I’m going to say yes. I really think this relationship can work out.

Brooke flipped through a few more pages and began to read a new entry that was dated a little while after their two month anniversary…

Brooke broke up with me. Her doubts finally became too much and she kicked my ass to the curb. I feel like shit. I really thought she loved me but I guess that was a lie. Everything was a lie. The bond we shared never meant anything to her.

Brooke went to the last entry and read it…

Brooke is dating Josh Ford now. It hurts to see her with someone else even though its been four months since we’ve broken up. I’m not surprised she went for a jock. Brooke was never really an individual. She almost always did what was expected of her.

Brooke closed the journal and put it back in Sam’s room. I really hurt her. Brooke thought as she returned to her room. But the break-up wasn’t all my fault. Sam never talked to me about anything that was bothering her. She always started fights over the dumbest things and we could never talk out our problems like mature adults. Sam’s a complicating girl. Brooke closed her eyes and went to sleep.

Chapter Five

Brooke walked into the kitchen and saw Sam pouring herself a cup of coffee. "How was your date with George?"

"It was fine," Sam answered as she stirred her coffee.

"That's good," Brooke said as she grabbed a cereal bar from the cabinet. "What'd you guys do?"

"Had dinner and went for a walk," Sam answered.

That's what we did on our first date! Brooke thought. "Isn't that what we did on our first date?" Brooke asked casually.

"Uh-huh," Sam nodded. "George's idea. Sorry we didn't do anything for you to run and tell your bimbo friends about."

"I just wanted to know how your date went so you'd have someone to talk to if it went bad," Brooke snapped.

"That's what I have friends for," Sam pointed out. "I'm going to school."

"Uber bitch," Brooke spat after Sam left. "I hate her."

Kennedy High.

Brooke, Mary Cherry, and Nicole were in the Novak talking.

"Dinner and a walk?" Nicole scoffed. "Booooring."

"Hey!" Brooke protested. "That's what I did with Sam on our first date."

"That is very romantic," Mary Cherry said. "Walking with someone gives you the chance to bond spiritually."

Nicole rolled her eyes. "Spiritual bonding my ass."

"So Brooke, you never asked Sam if she kissed George or not?"

"That's none of my business," Brooke said. "I don't care if they kissed or not. Do you think I care?"

"It was just a question," Mary Cherry said. "Take a deep breath and relax."

"Let's get to class," Brooke said.

Josh and George were walking to Chemistry and talking about George's date with Sam.

"Sounds like you two had fun," Josh said.

"We did," George smiled. "Maybe we should do a double date thing."

"A double date?" Josh thought for a second. "Well, I guess Sam isn't a threat to me anymore since she's dating you now, but I don't think Brooke will go for it."

"Just talk to her," George urged. "We'll go bowling. It'll be fun."

Chemistry Class.

The bell hadn't rung yet so the kids were all enjoying their time before class started.

"No," Brooke said shaking her head.

"Come on, Brooke," Josh said. "It'll be cool. Can't you and Sam get along for at least two hours?"

"No," Brooke raised her voice a little. "You don't even like Sam why do you want to go on a double date with her?"

"She's dating George now," Josh stated. "I don't have to worry about her trying to steal you from me."

Brooke rolled her eyes. "Like I'd ever get back with her. I'm not going on a double date with her it'll be way weird."

"Please, for me," Josh begged.

"Fine," Brooke sighed. "But I won't be held accountable for anything that happens to her if she irks me."

"Great," Josh gave Brooke a kiss. "You're the best."

"So what are we going to do?" Brooke asked.

"Bowling," Josh answered.

"Ew," Nicole was listening to the conversation while filing her nails. "Do you know how many people wear those bowling shoes? Brooke can't be seen wearing those things."

Josh ignored Nicole and went back to talking to Brooke. "So, you're not going to change your mind last minute or anything are you?"

"No," Brooke replied. "I won't change my mind."

"Never," Sam said.

"It's going to be fun," George replied.

"I refuse to go anywhere with Brooke McQueen," Sam said.

"Please, please, please," George begged.

"We've only had one date and now you want to double?" Sam asked. "I bet you Brooke doesn't even want to go."

"But she's going," Harrison said. "I heard her talking to Josh."

"Maybe you and Brooke will actually get along," Carmen said. "You should go."

"And if she pisses you off fling the bowling ball at her," Lily advised. "That'll shut her up."

"Okay," Sam nodded. "I'll go, but this will be our first and last date including Brooke and Josh."

"Alright," George said.

Bio Glass walked in and started yelling for everyone to get into their proper seats. Sam sighed and went to her seat next to Brooke.

"I hate being seated alphabetically," Sam muttered to herself.

"I'm not too fond of it either," Brooke said. "But you should be glad you get to sit next to someone as charming as myself."

"You are so full of yourself," Sam rolled her eyes. "I can't believe I agreed to that stupid double date."

"McTwosome," Bobbi Glass turned to face the two girls. "Is there something you want to share with the class?"

"No sir," the girls answered.

"Are you sure?" Bio Glass asked. "You're talking about something."

"We were just talking about the date we have tonight," Brooke replied.

"You're back together?" they heard Emory ask in surprise.

"No!" Brooke said

"We have double dates," Sam jumped in. "Josh and Brook. Me and George."

"You're dating George?" Someone in the class said. "You are so lucky."

"Shut up maggots," Bio Glass ordered. "Now, it you two ex-lovebirds are done talking I'd like to continue with my class."

Both girls nodded and the teacher began teaching again. While he/she went on with the lesson Brooke and Sam were dreading tonight's events.

Chapter Six

Brooke was looking around her room for her hairbrush when she remembered that it was in the bathroom. When she opened the bathroom door she saw Sam standing in front of the mirror in only a towel while she put lotion on her arms.

“It’s called Knocking!” Sam held onto her towel to make sure it wouldn’t fall off.

“I didn’t know you were still in here,” Brooke had her left hand covering her eyes. “It’s not like I’ve never seen you in a towel before.”

“That was along time ago when we were together,” Sam pointed out. “Are we together now? No. So you need to knock before busting into the bathroom.”

“I’m sorry, okay?” Brooke sighed.

“Okay,” Sam nodded. “So, what’d you want?”

“My hairbrush,” Brooke replied.

“It’s not in here,” Sam said. “It’s in my room.”

“Why is it in your room?” Brooke said crossing her arms across her chest.

“You didn’t care when I used it before,” Sam said.

“That was along time ago when we were together,” Brooke mocked Sam. “Are we together now? No. So you need to ask before taking my things. As a matter of fact, don’t ask ‘cause the answer will be no.”

“Are you done?” Sam asked.

“Yes,” Brooke nodded.

“Then get out!” Sam demanded.

“Can I get my hairbrush?” Brooke asked.

Sam went to her room.

She looks so hot in that towel. Brooke thought.

Sam came back and handed Brooke her brush. Brooke back tracked out of the bathroom and closed the door.

Sam ran her hand through her hair and sighed.

Sam and Brooke were in the living room waiting for the doorbell to ring. Mike and Jane were there too because they wanted to meet George.

“It’s nice to see you two getting along,” Jane said.

“Getting along?” Sam raised her eyebrows.

“Well, you’re going to hang out with each other and your boyfriends,” Mike pointed out.

“That wasn’t our idea,” Brooke said. “George and Josh wanted to do the double date thing. We were just suckered in.”

“Exactly,” Sam agreed. “There’s a bunch of things I’d rather be doing than being stuck in a bowling alley for two hours with her.”

“Shut up, Sam,” Brooke said. “You always have something to say.”

“Girls, don’t get yourselves all riled up,” Jane said.

The doorbell rang and Sam got up to answer it.

“Hi,” George said. “Are you ready?”

“My mom and Mike want to meet you first,” Sam said pulling George into the house. Josh followed behind.

“Hey Brooke,” Josh smiled. “Mr. And Mrs. McQueen.”

“Hey,” Brooke said walking over to her boyfriend.

“So, George,” Mike said. “I heard you’re a football player.”

“Yes sir,” George nodded.

“What position?” Mike asked.

“Quarterback, sir,” George replied.

“What time do you boys plan on having our girls back?” Jane asked.

“Around ten,” Josh answered.

“Alright, drive safely,” Mike said.

Sam, Brooke, Josh, and George were putting on their bowling shoes.

“We’re going to go get something to eat,” Josh said. “Do you two want anything?”

“I’ll take what you’re having,” Brooke replied.

“How ‘bout you Sam?” George asked.

“I’ll just have some fries,” Sam answered. “Thanks.”

The two boys left leaving the brunette and blonde alone.

Brooke pulled a mirror out of her purse and began looking at herself.

“We’re at a bowling alley why do you have make-up on?” Sam asked.

“I like to look my best at all times,” Brooke replied. “Unlike some people.”

“I don’t need make-up to make me look good,” Sam retorted. “Unlike some people.”

Brooke glared at Sam. “You weren’t complaining about my looks when we were dating.”

Before Sam could reply Josh and George came back.

“The food has arrived,” Josh said placing a tray down on the bench Brooke was sitting on and George put a tray down where he and Sam were sitting.

George picked up a fry and fed it to Sam. Brooke saw this and felt a pang of jealousy rush through her. After the couples were done eating they began to bowl.

“Who’s up next?” George asked after Josh got a strike.

Brooke got up and grabbed a bowling ball.

“Don’t hurt yourself,” Sam commented.

Brooke glanced at Sam and rolled her eyes. She took a bowling stance, walked up three steps, and rolled the ball down the lane. The ball knocked down nine of the pins and left one standing. Brooke picked up another ball and concentrated on the pin.

“Some time today, Princess,” Sam said impatiently.

She hasn’t called me Princess since we broke up. Brooke thought. She rolled the ball down the lane once again and it glided over into the gutter. “Damn it!”

“It’s alright baby,” Josh said. “You’ll get it next time.”

“Sam you’re up,” George said.

Sam got up and grabbed a bowling ball. “Watch and learn.” She said to the blonde. She threw the ball with medium force and knocked down all the pins. Sam turned around with a big smile on her face. “That’s how it’s done.”

Brooke got a mental image of throwing Sam down the lane into the pins. “It is on!” Brooke announced. “You’re toast, McPherson.”

“Whatever,” Sam grinned. “You can’t bowl worth shit.”

“Keep talking,” Brooke said. “It just makes me want to kick your ass even more.”

“You couldn’t kick my ass if I stood still with my hands tied behind my back,” Sam laughed.

“Girls,” Josh said. “This is supposed to be fun.”

“Yeah,” George said.

The girls went to their partners and sat down while George got up to bowl. The rest of the date went by fairly well if you didn’t count Sam’s ball slipping from her fingers and almost hitting Brooke.

Sam and Brooke walked into the house after kissing their dates goodnight.

“That was fun!” Sam exclaimed.

“Only because you won,” Brooke grumbled.

“Cheer up, Brooke,” Sam smiled as she began to walk to her room. “It was just a game.”

The Novak…

“How was your double death date with Spam?” Nicole asked.

“Awful,” Brooke replied. “She and George were all over each other.”

“You and Josh are always being touchy feely,” Mary Cherry pointed out.

“I know but… I just-” Brooke got cut off by Nicole.

“Brooke McQueen, you’re jealous of George,” Nicole said.

“I am not!” Brooke exclaimed.

“Don’t lie,” Mary Cherry said.

“Fine, I’m jealous,” Brooke admitted.

“Why?” Nicole asked. “You have Josh now.”

“I just miss the attention Sam always gave me. I think I’m still in love with her,” Brooke ran her hands through her hair.

“Awwww,” Nicole placed her hand over her heart. “That’s sweet. Don’t let anyone hear you talking like that!”

The warning bell rang and the three blondes exited the bathroom. After they left Lily walked out of one of the stalls.

Lunch…

Lily sat down next to Sam and leaned over to her. “You won’t believe what I heard while I was in the Novak today.”

“What?” Sam asked.

“I over heard Brooke saying she’s jealous of George and she’s still in love with you.” Lily whispered.

“Ohmygod,” Carmen blurted out. “That’s great. That’s a good thing isn’t it Sam?”

“I… I’m with George now guys,” Sam pointed out. “And even if I wasn’t I don’t love Brooke anymore.”

“Pssh,” Carmen rolled her eyes.

“That’s a major lie,” Harrison said.

“Okay, I still love her but I don’t want to be hurt by her again. Maybe you heard her wrong Lily.” Sam looked over at Brooke’s table and made contact with Brooke’s eyes. They held each others gaze for a couple of seconds and then Sam looked away.

Sam and George were in Sam’s living room talking about a bunch of things. Brooke was at cheerleading practice and her parents were out somewhere.

“I think you’re a good journalist,” George said. “Even if your articles make Nicole want to kill you.”

“Thanks Sam,” smiled.

“So how is it living with Brooke with the kind of history you two have?” George asked.

“Hard,” Sam replied. “It’s just really awkward.”

“You still love her,” George stated.

“What?” Sam was shocked.

“I saw you and Brooke looking at each other during lunch today,” George said. “I saw regret, sadness, and love in your eyes.”

“You could see all that from where you were sitting?” Sam joked.

“Sam,” George sighed. “I know what it’s like to be in love. After me and my ex-girlfriend broke up it took me awhile to get over it.”

“Me and Brooke have been over for months now,” Sam said.

“But you still want her,” George said.

“Are you breaking up with me?” Sam asked.

“Yes… I’m sorry Sam,” George said as he got up. “But I really do hope we can remain friends ‘cause I think you’re a terrific person.”

“I’d like that,” Sam nodded.

“No hard feelings?” George asked.

“No hard feelings,” Sam said.

George gave Sam a hug. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Chapter Seven

When Brooke came home from cheerleading practice she went to her room. She got bored after awhile and decided to bother Sam. When she opened Sam’s room door she saw her writing something. “What are you writing?” Brooke asked walking further into the room.

“I’m not writing,” Sam replied dully not feeling like arguing with Brooke for not knocking .“I’m drawing.”

“You seem sad. What’s wrong?” Brooke asked concerned.

“George broke up with me,” Sam said.

“Why?” Brooke said sitting herself down on Sam’s bed.

“Don’t worry about it,” Sam said.

“Sam, talk to me,” Brooke sighed. “Why’d you two break up?”

“He doesn’t think I’m over you,” Sam answered.

“Which I am. I don’t think about you anymore,” Sam lied. “And we are not talking about this anymore.”

Brooke moved closer to Sam. “What are you drawing? Brooke tried to peak at the piece of paper in front of Sam.

Sam turned the paper around. “You’re nosey.”

“I am not,” Brooke said. “Can I see the drawing please?”

“No,” Sam said.

“Is it that bad?” Brooke grinned.

“Better than anything you could draw,” Sam said.

“I’m a pretty good drawer,” Brooke said.

“Compared to whom?” Sam asked. “A five year old?”

“Sam,” Brooke said softly. “I miss this. I miss laughing and joking around with you. “

“Brooke… don’t,” Sam said getting off the bed.

“I miss you,” Brooke confessed as she got up.

“Brooke-” Brooke cut Sam off by kissing her.

Sam tried to pull away but as soon as she felt Brooke’s tongue run along her bottom lip she gave in and allowed the kiss to go on. When she got back to reality she pulled away from Brooke and left her room.

“Shit,” Brooke rubbed the back of her neck with her right hand. “I think I just messed things up.” Brooke saw the paper that Sam was drawing on laying on the floor. She picked it up and looked at it. It was a drawing of Sam and Brooke at the beach when they had gone with Sam’s friends. “Wow, Sam has a great memory if she remembered what this picture looks like.” Brooke smiled when she thought back to their day at the beach. She put the paper on Sam’s bed and went to go three-way Nicole and Mary Cherry.

Sam was in a little coffee shop waiting for Lily, Harrison, and Carmen to show up. She had called them and told them to meet her at the coffee shop closest to her house. She sipped her coffee and rested her head on the table. Several minutes later she heard Carmen’s voice.

“What happened?” Carmen asked. “Did someone die? Oh no, someone died.”

“Calm down, Carm,” Sam said. “No one is dead.”

“So what’s the what?” Harrison asked taking a seat next to Sam.

Lily and Carmen sat across from them.

“George broke up with me and Brooke kissed me,” Sam said.

“Whoa,” Lily said.

“Why’d George dump you?” Harrison asked.

“He said I still had a thing for Brooke,” Sam answered. “And for the hundredth time I do not want to get back with Brooke.”

“Stop lying to yourself,” Harrison said. “You want to get back with Brooke in the worse way.”

“What about the kiss?” Lily asked.

“She just kissed me out of nowhere,” Sam shrugged. “She said she missed me and then she kissed me.”

“That means she wants you back,” Carmen smiled. “You should be happy.”

“But I’m not,” Sam sighed.

“What about Josh?” Lily asked.

“I think they’re still dating,” Sam replied.

“Well, Brooke might dump him for you and then he’ll hate you,” Harrison said.

Sam covered face with her hands.

“You kissed her?” Nicole exclaimed over the phone. “If I were there I’d hurt you.”

“Does this mean you and Josh are over?” Mary Cherry who was also on the phone asked.

“No,” Brooke said. “I’m gonna break up with him tomorrow.”

“You’re gonna break up with him again for the same reason you did last time,” Nicole said.

“You’re gonna break that boys heart,” Mary Cherry added.

“Guys, you’re supposed to be supportive,” Brooke complained.

“Sorry, hun,” Nicole said. “So congratulations on being back together with Sam.”

“We’re not back together,” Brooke said.

“Then why are you leaving Josh?” Mary Cherry asked.

“Because I want to get back with Sam,” Brooke answered.

“Does she share the same feelings as you?” Mary Cherry asked.

“I don’t think so,” Brooke said.

“Then stay with Josh,” Nicole said. “If you break up with Josh and Sam doesn’t want you back you’ll end up with no one.”

“I don’t want to drag Josh along anymore,” Brooke said. “Even if Sam and I are never getting back together Josh isn’t the one for me. I need to do my homework. I’ll talk to you guys later.”

Sam entered her house around five and began to walk up the stairs. She stopped when she heard her mom call her back down.

“Where were you?” Jane asked.

“With my friends,” Sam replied.

“Oh,” Jane said. “How are you and George?”

“Broke up,” Sam replied.

“Oh honey, I’m sorry. What happened?” Jane went over to her daughter.

“Wasn’t working’ out,” Sam answered. “No biggie.”

“You’re okay?” Jane asked.

“I’m peachy,” Sam responded.

“Okay, if you’re sure,” Jane said.

“I’m sure,” Sam said as she continued back up the stairs.

When Sam reached the top of the stairs she went over to Brooke’s room and opened it slightly. She peaked inside and saw that Brooke was asleep. Sam closed the door and went to her room. She saw the picture she had drawn lying on her bed. She picked it up, tore it, and threw it away.

Chapter Eight

Brooke and Josh were outside talking by Brooke’s car.

“So what is it that you wanted to talk about?” Josh asked.

“Brooke bit her lower lip and stared at everything but Josh. “Josh, I don’t know how to say this without hurting you but I still love Sam. I never really got over her. I just pretended I did.”

“You’re breaking up with me for Sam again?” Josh yelled. “This is unbelievable. She’s brainwashing you Brooke.”

“She is not,” Brooke rolled her eyes.

“I need you. I love you,” Josh said. “Does she love you?”

“I hope so,” Brooke said quietly.

“Brooke, don’t do this,” Josh pleaded. “If there’s something wrong with our relationship we can work it out.”’

“No we can’t,” Brooke said sternly.

“Why the hell not?” Josh exclaimed.

“You’re not Sam,” Brooke stated. “I’m sorry.”

Josh took a deep breath and turned to leave. “Sam ruins everything.” As soon as he walked into the school Nicole and Mary Cherry ran out from behind a car.

“Okay, Josh sounded like a borderline stalker,” Nicole said. “I’d look out for moving bushes if I were you.”

“Ah can lend you my bullet proof vest,” Mary Cherry said. “Ya know, just in case Josh decides to go psycho and kill you.”

“Josh isn’t going to hurt me,” Brooke said. “And why do you have a bullet proof vest?”

“My mom wanted to go to Malibu for a vacation,” Mary Cherry answered.

“So?” Nicole said.

“Haven’t y’all seen Malibu’s Most Wanted? It’s dangerous down there y’all!” Mary Cherry exclaimed.

“Mary Cherry that was a movie,” Brooke said.

“Fiction,” Nicole added. “Not true. Not real. Honey, you were dropped on your head too many times as a baby.”

“Well, you may not need it but Sam might,” Mary Cherry pointed out.

“McPherson!” Josh yelled walking into the girl’s bathroom.

“Whoa there buddy,” Carmen said. “This is the girl’s bathroom.”

“I need to talk to Sam,” Josh said.

“Can’t it wait?” Sam asked while she washed her hands and dried them.

“No!” Josh yelled. “Brooke broke up with me because of you!”

“That’s not my fault,” Sam said. “Brooke’s her own person. She does what she wants.”

“Then why’d she call it off between us?” Josh asked.

“Why are you asking me?” Sam yelled. “Go ask her!”

“Just when I started to think you were a good person you go and steal my girlfriend,” Josh started pacing.

“I didn’t steal anything from you,” Sam said. “I think you should leave.”

“No,” Josh shook his head.

“Then I will,” Sam left the Novak with Carmen and Lily.

“Don’t walk away from me when I’m talking to you,” Josh said following Sam.

“Josh, Brooke broke up with you. Not because I told her to and not because I messed with her mind. She doesn’t feel that way for you anymore. I had nothing to do with it,” Sam stopped walking and turned around to face Josh.

“If she asks you out will you go back out with her?” Josh asked.

“I don’t know,” Sam shrugged. “Probably not.”

“Hey, is something wrong over here?” Harrison asked walking up to Sam.

“This doesn’t concern you,” Josh snapped.

“Sam’s my friend,” Harrison said. “So it does concern me.”

Brooke, Nicole, and Mary Cherry walked up to where Josh and the others were.

“Josh, leave Sam alone,” Brooke said.

“No… I wanna know why she made you leave me,” Josh said angrily.

“I didn’t make her do anything!” Sam was beyond angry.

“For the last time Josh, I broke up with you because I still feel something for Sam,” Brooke said. “She didn’t tell me to do anything.”

“This is better than one of those day time soap operas,” Mary Cherry commented.

George walked up to the arguing teens. He had no idea what was going on. “What’s up?”

“This bitch stole my girlfriend,” Josh pointed at Sam.

“Josh, shut the hell up!” Sam yelled. “I did not tell, ask, do, or even hint to anything to make Brooke dump you! She doesn’t want you anymore. That’s your problem not mine! And if it makes you feel any better I have an idea of what you’re going through. She 's dumped me before too. Now, if anyone else wants to piss me off today I’ll be at my house.”

“School’s not over yet Sam,” Lily pointed out.

“Do you need me to come with you?” George asked. “I can listen if you need to talk.”

“I’m only going home for lunch,” Sam said. “It’ll give me a chance to mellow out since this mofo gave me a headache.”

Sam left to her car and Brooke turned to Josh.

“What is wrong with you?” Brooke asked. “You should be grateful I called things off between us. You can find someone who really deserves you now.”

“I overreacted,” Josh said. “I’m sorry.”

“I’m gonna go catch up with Sam,” Brooke said.

“I think she needs time to think things through,” Carmen said.

“This is important,” Brooke said.

Brooke got home several minutes after Sam. When she got upstairs she heard music playing. She decided to listen to the words.

Are you aware of how much you complicate me?
And are you aware your words suffocate me?
And don’t deny you’re talking behind my back to your friends
And don’t deny one day you’ll need me, need me

So incomplete, your stare is cold unlike anything I’ve ever seen
So incomplete, your body is tired and falling apart at the seams
I won’t deny I took a part in never wanting you back
Don’t deny one day you’ll need me, need me

When Brooke entered the room Sam shut off her radio.

“I don’t want to talk to you right now,” Sam said.

“Can you please give me another chance?” Brooke asked.

Sam laughed almost evilly. “Brooke, you left me. I was heart-broken. You can’t just break up with me and expect me to jump for joy when you want me back. It doesn’t work like that. If you feel this way why‘d you break up with me in the first place?”

“I was confused,” Brooke said. “I got scared.”

“So you go and sleep with Josh and then break up with me?” Sam asked.

“That’s not what happened,” Brooke said sadly.

“Then tell me what happened,” Sam demanded. “I sure would like to know.”

“We had just had another fight and you had left my house. Josh came over to hang out and then one thing led to another… I made the biggest mistake of my life. I wanted my first time to be with you but everything changed in that one night. Then I realized I didn’t know what I wanted anymore. We were always arguing, Nicole was telling me that I was going to become nothing if I kept dating you. I didn’t want to go from popular cheerleader to nothing. Then a couple of months after me and Josh slept together and we broke up, Josh and I started dating again. Sam, you were always stronger than I was. I couldn‘t handle our relationship anymore after awhile. I‘m sorry I hurt you. Please don‘t stay angry with me.”

“I loved you… I still do. I opened up to you more than I’ve ever opened up to anyone and you took that and threw it back in my face. You hurt me more than anyone ever has.” Sam stated. “I can stay mad as long as I want.”

“God, Sam, you’re so…argh!” Brooke yelled.

“I’m so what Brooke?” Sam asked. “What’s my damage today? You can always find something wrong with me can’t you? I’m not open enough, I’m too bitchy, I’m unorganized, I don’t think before I speak! What’s my problem today?”

Brooke ignored Sam’s question. She was pretty sure it was rhetorical anyway. “I love you, Sam. And I’m pretty sure you love me too.”

“Well you’re wrong,” Sam stated. “I’m going back to school. Lunch is almost over.”

Brooke could feel tears roll down her face after Sam left. She got into Sam’s bed, cuddled up with the pillow, and cried herself to sleep.

Chapter Nine

Cafeteria…

“That’s the saddest thing I’ve ever heard,” Carmen said. “You said that to her?”

“Sam, you can’t blame the whole break up on Brooke,” Lily said. “You had something to do with it too.”

“That’s not true,” Sam protested.

“Yes it is,” Lily said.

“Okay, so I wasn’t emotionally available all the time and I pushed her away a lot, but I shared secrets and dreams with her,” Sam said. “It’s not like I totally ruined our relationship.”

“Seriously Sam, why won’t you give Brooke a second chance?” Carmen asked.

“I think you know the answer to that,” Sam said.

“That was months ago and she wants to start over. She broke up with Josh for you,” Carmen said.

“She broke up with Josh for me last time and look what happened,” Sam said. “It’s like ping-pong. Sam, Josh, Sam, Josh. She needs to fucking choose.”

“She has chosen,” Lily said. “She chose you.”

“And?” Sam said.

“Sam,” Carmen sighed. “We’re your friends and we love you but you are getting on our last nerves. You want to get back with Brooke. Don‘t say you don‘t ‘cause you do. Why do you keep denying it?”

Sam contemplated this for a moment. “I guess I’m just scared.”

“Of what?” Lily asked.

“Of getting hurt again,” Sam replied. “I don’t even think Brooke is ready for a serious relationship now. We need to take some time and think about this and then… I don‘t know.”

“Talk to Brooke,” Lily said. “That’s the only way you two will know what’s going on in each other’s heads.”

Sam ignored what Lily was saying. “Where’s Harrison?”

“He’s talking to Josh and George,” Carmen responded. “And Nicole and Mary Cherry went to go check on Brooke.”

“I liked Sam and Brooke,” Harrison said to Josh. “When I first found out they were together it took me about three weeks to accept it. Those three weeks were hell. I missed Sam and I didn’t want to lose her friendship, but I was going to if I didn’t get my act together. I know you love Brooke. And I know you wouldn’t want to lose her as a friend. So next time you see her talk to her.”

“Well, I think Harrison said everything that needed to be said,” George said. “Are you feeling better now?”

“I’m getting there,” Josh nodded. “Thanks guys.”

Nicole and Mary Cherry were in the palace. Sam hadn’t locked the door back when she left so the were able to get in. The two blondes went to Brooke’s room and didn’t see her. They then made their way into Sam’s room and Saw Brooke sleeping.

“She looks so adorable,” Mary Cherry smiled. “Look how she’s cuddled up to that pillow. She probably thinks it’s Sam.”

Nicole rolled her eyes at the Texan and gently shook Brooke awake.

“Sam?” Brooke asked rubbing her eyes.

“No, it’s us,” Nicole said. “How are you doing Brookie?”

Brooke sat up in the bed and sighed. “Horrible.”

“Maybe it’s because you’re in this room,” Nicole said looking around. “Let’s get you to the kitchen for some water.”

Brooke got up and accompanied her friends to the kitchen.

“What’d Spam say to you?” Nicole asked while pouring her friend a glass of water.

“A lot,” Brooke sighed.

“Well, sum it all up in a nutshell,” Nicole said.

“I hurt her, she doesn’t want to get back together, she’s still angry, and she still loves me,” Brooke said.

“She still loves you,” Nicole said. “That means you have some sort of a chance doesn’t it? And if she doesn’t want you back there’s plenty of other fish in the sea.”

“I don’t want other fish,” Brooke mumbled. “I want Sam.”

“I’ll be right back,” Nicole grabbed Mary Cherry and pulled her into the living room.

Nicole looked to see if Brooke was still in the kitchen and then began to speak. “I have a plan. Tonight we kidnap Spam and Brooke. Today’s Friday so we can lock them in my basement until Sunday night.”

“This sounds like fun,” Mary Cherry whispered. “Can I bring handcuffs?”

Nicole tilted her head and looked at Mary Cherry. “You’re very weird.”

“Thank you!” Mary Cherry smiled. “And are we going to run this plan by Sam’s friends?”

“Nah,” Nicole shook her head. “They’ll figure it out when they can’t find Spam. Now let’s get back into the kitchen.”

“We decided that you need some time out of this house,” Nicole said walking into the kitchen. “Later tonight we’re going to bring you to my house so you can get your mind off of Spam McBitch.”

Before Brooke could say anything Mike and Jane walked into the kitchen.

“Brooke, what are you doing home so early?” Mike asked.

“She wasn’t feeling well,” Nicole answered. “She left during lunch and me and Mary Cherry decided to come and check up on her.”

“That was sweet of you,” Jane smiled at the girls.

“We’ll be goin’ now,” Mary Cherry said. “Bye y’all.”

Mike turned to Brooke when the two girls left.

“Are you okay?” Mike asked.

“I’ll be fine,” Brooke sighed. “I’m just gonna go back to sleep or something.”

“Want me to make you some soup?” Jane asked.

Brooke just shrugged and exited the kitchen.

Sam walked into her house and went to the kitchen. She greeted her mom and grabbed herself a soda.

“Sam, can you go look to see if Brooke’s doing okay?” Jane asked.

“What’s wrong with her?” Sam asked.

“Nicole and Mary Cherry said she wasn’t feeling well so she came home early. “But I think there’s more to it than that. Can you go see if she’ll talk to you?”

“Mom-” Sam began to decline but her mom cut her off.

“Please?” Jane asked. “I’m not asking you to start a conversation with her, even though that’d be nice. I’m just asking you to find out what’s wrong with her.”

“She broke up with Josh,” Sam said. “That’s what’s wrong.”

“Why’d she do that?” Jane thought the two would be together for a long time.

“She wasn’t feeling anything for him anymore,” Sam sighed. “Can I go now?”

“Yes, but I still want you to check on Brooke,” Jane said.

Sam rolled her eyes and went upstairs with her soda.

She knocked on Brooke’s door and waited for an answer.

“Come in,” Brooke said groggily.

“I was told to check up on you,” Sam said walking into Brooke’s room. “How are you?”

“Go away,” Brooke said putting her pillow over her head.

“I’ll take that as okay,” Sam didn’t really want to be in Brooke’s room anyway so she went to her own.

Friday Night…

Brooke exited her house and saw Nicole and Mary Cherry blocking Sam, who had left the house two hours ago to do research for an article she was writing, from passing them.

“What are you two doing?” Brooke asked.

“Nothing,” Mary Cherry said.

Brooke walked closer to her friends. As soon as she got near them Mary Cherry slapped handcuffs on her left wrist and slapped the other end on Sam’s right wrist.

“What the hell is this?” Sam asked.

“We’re taking you hostage!” Mary Cherry said.

“Get in the car,” Nicole ordered.

“No!” Brooke and Sam yelled.

Nicole opened the back door, shoved the girls in, and shut the door. Mary Cherry pulled sunglasses out of her purse, put them on and then looked around to make sure no one saw them.

“Mary Cherry get your ass in the car,” Nicole ordered.

Mary Cherry flipped her hair and got into the car.

Nicole’s basement…

“Now, we already called your parents and told them that Brooke was spending the night over here,” Nicole said. “We’ll figure out what the lie for Spam is going to be later. I’m sure your mom won’t believe you’re staying over here.”

“Then let me go and keep Brooke,” Sam said.

“No, you both are going to stay here and work out whatever issue it is you have with each other,” Nicole said. “As much as I hate the idea of you and Sam being back together again I can’t take another second of all this drama.”

“Nicole, you’re like the queen of drama,” Sam pointed out.

Nicole glared at Sam. “Me and MC are going upstairs. Spam, try not to dirty up my couch with your dirty clothes. Thank you.”

“This is ridiculous,” Brooke said as Nicole and Mary Cherry left.

“We should call someone. I don‘t have my cell,” Brooke said. “Do you have yours?”

“It’s in my right pocket,” Sam stood up and reached deep into her pocket bringing Brooke’s cuffed arm with her.

“Why must you wear these baggy jeans with pockets that are so damn deep?” Brooke asked.

Sam pulled her cell phone out, sat back down, and then dialed Lily’s number.

“Hello?” Lily answered.

“Mary Cherry and Nicole kidnapped me and Brooke. We‘re at her house locked in her basement,” Sam said. “Come get us out of here, pleeeease.”

“I’ll round up the gang and we’ll be right there,” Lily said.

Sam closed her phone and put it back in her pocket with her free hand. “Lily’s coming with reinforcements.”

“Awesome,” Brooke got up pulling Sam with her. “I have to go to the bathroom.”

“Hold it,” Sam said.

“I have to go now,” Brooke pulled Sam up the stairs and to the door.

“What?” Nicole asked when she heard banging on the door.

“I need to use your bathroom,” Brooke replied.

Nicole opened the door and they could see Mary Cherry leaning against the wall with a bat in her hand.

“What’s with the bat?” Brooke asked.

“Just in case y’all try to do something sneaky,” Mary Cherry said.

Brooke walked to the bathroom and Sam had no choice but to follow. Sam stopped walking when they reached the door. “I’ll wait for you out here.”

“I can’t reach the toilet if you’re standing outside the door,” Brooke pointed out.

“I guess you can’t go,” Sam said.

Brooke yanked Sam into the bathroom and slammed the door closed. While Brooke unbuttoned her jeans Sam turned to face the wall. After Brooke was done she washed her hands. Sam opened the door and exited the bathroom.

“Do we really have to stay in the basement?” Sam asked. “It’s boring as hell down there.”

“You have Brooke to keep you company,” Mary Cherry said. “Now keep movin’.”

The two girls went back downstairs and could hear the door lock behind them. They sat back down on the couch and put their feet up on the table in front of them.

“The others should be here soon,” Sam said.

“Sam… remember when I kissed you like a day ago?” Brooke asked.

“It’s alright,” Sam said. “You don’t have to apologize.”

“I wasn’t going to apologize,” Brooke said. “I just wanted to let you know that I saw that picture you drew. The one when we-”

“Were at the beach,” Sam finished.

“Well, I want things to be like that again,” Brooke said.

“Things can’t be like that again Brooke,” Sam was getting tired of having this conversation.

“I’m ready to make it work out between us,” Brooke said.

“Ha, you should’ve been ready months ago when we were actually going out,” Sam pointed out. “But we’re not dating now are we?”

Brooke got ready to say something but thought the better of it and closed her mouth. She just sighed and thought of the good times she and Sam had shared when they had first started dating.

“Sam hurry up and get in here,” Brooke laughed beckoning Sam into her house.

Brooke laughed and followed Sam upstairs.

Chapter Ten

Lily, Harrison, and Carmen were standing outside of Nicole’s gate.

“How are we supposed to get in?” Harrison asked.

“We press that button thing next to the gate and ask Nicole to open it,” Carmen suggested.

“Like she’s really going to let us in,” Lily said. “Let’s just climb over.”

“So we can die?” Harrison asked.

“I can’t climb anything,” Carmen added. “I almost failed P.E. last year.”

“This should be easier than climbing ropes,” Lily said. “Besides, you two don’t really want to leave Sam in there with dumb and dumber do you?”

“Fine, let’s climb,” Harrison said.

Several minutes later…

“Do ya really think they’re working things out down there?” Mary Cherry asked.

“Yeah… that or killing each other,” Nicole answered.

“It would be nice to see them back dating again,” Mary Cherry said. “They made a cute couple.”

Lily, Harrison, and Carmen walked into the living room where the two blondes were.

“How’d you trailer trash freaks get in here?” Nicole asked.

“We climbed the gate and then your butler let us in,” Harrison answered.

“Now where are Sam and Brooke?” Lily asked.

“We are tryin’ to help them. How else are they going to get along if we don’t force them to communicate?” Mary Cherry asked.

“She has a good point,” Lily said. “Maybe we should leave them down there.”

Harrison and Carmen nodded in agreement.

“One of you call Sam’s mom and tell her she’s staying with you,” Nicole instructed.

“Where are Lily and the others?” Sam asked. “It shouldn’t be taking this long.”

“Nicole probably wouldn’t let them in,” Brooke said.

They heard the basement door open and Sam’s friends walked in.

“We’re saved!” Brooke said getting up along with Sam.

“Sorry guys,” Harrison said. “We think you two should stay down here until you work things out.”

“Traitors!” Sam yelled.

“It’s for your own good,” Carmen said. “You’ll thank us later.”

“Can we at least get these damn handcuffs taken off?” Sam asked.

“No,” Mary Cherry replied. “Have fun. We’ll be upstairs.”

“Our two groups are working together to get us back together,” Brooke stated as she sat back down causing Sam to sit too. “Never thought I’d see the day.”

“Yeah,” Sam said. “Well, if we’re stuck down here we might as well talk.”

“Good,” Brooke said. “Where should we start?”

What went wrong?” Sam asked. “Was it me?”

“It was both of us” Brooke answered. “I was too insecure and you kept pushing me away.”

“I didn’t want you to get to close,” Sam said. “I didn’t want you to hurt me… but I guess you did that anyway.”

“Sam, I’m sorry,” Brooke sighed. “How many more times must I say it?”

“Until I’m ready to accept it,” Sam responded.

“Why won’t you accept it now?” Brooke asked.

“I’m not over what you did,” Sam replied.

“Can’t you at least try to make things work between us?” Brooke asked. “Why aren’t you willing to do that?”

“You said you loved me and then you just left me,” Sam said. “I didn’t think I’d ever stop crying. I haven‘t cried that much since my father died. You broke my heart, Brooke.”

“I’m really and truly sorry,” Brooke felt tears begin to form in the back of her eyes. “I was in idiot. I should have treated you better.”

“I should’ve treated you better too,” Sam wiped away the tears that managed to fall from Brooke’s eyes with her left hand.

“Maybe we can start over,” Brooke said softly.

“I don’t want to start over,” Sam said. “I want us to pick up where we left off.”

“Wouldn’t that be a bad thing?” Brooke asked.

“Not if we do what we were supposed to do to begin with,” Sam answered.

“Talk things out?” Brooke asked.

“Yeah,” Sam nodded. “But not here. I‘d rather us be in the privacy of our own home. Let‘s go tell them we made up.”

Sam and Brooke got up and as they got to the stairs Brooke stopped.

“Sam, I love you,” Brooke said. I really hope you believe that.”

Sam smiled and placed a hand on Brooke’s cheek. “I believe you and I forgive you… but if you ever hurt me again-”

“I won’t,” Brooke quickly assured the brunette.

“Brooke,” Sam whispered.

“Yeah?” Brooke asked.

“I love you too,” Sam placed a small kiss on Brooke’s lips. “I missed being able doing that.”

Brooke hugged Sam the best she could with handcuffs on.

“Alright, now let’s go get these blasted things off,” Sam said referring to the cuffs.

Lily, Harrison, Carmen, Nicole, and Mary Cherry were all in the living room watching television. Nicole had made the brunettes sit on the floor because they weren’t “good enough” to sit on her couch.

“They’re knocking on the door,” Lily pointed out.

Mary Cherry picked up the baseball bat from off the floor and went over to the basement door. “What?” she asked after she opened the door.

“We worked things out,” Brooke smiled happily.

“How do we know you’re not lying?” Nicole asked as she and the others walked up.

“We really did work things out,” Sam said. “We want to go home so we can talk more though.”

“I believe them,” Lily said. “I can feel good vibes.”

“Mary Cherry where is the key for the handcuffs?” Harrison asked.

“It came with a key?” Mary Cherry asked confused.

“You better be joking,” Sam warned.

“Maybe we can use an axe to cut it off,” Mary Cherry suggested.

Before Sam and Brooke could start yelling Carmen spoke up. “You guys will just be like this for tonight and then we’ll go get them off tomorrow. Okay?”

“Fine,” Sam agreed. “But what are we going to tell our parents? They think we’re staying at our friend’s house and we’re handcuffed together.”

“They’re probably sleeping by now,” Nicole said. “It’s eleven. Old people go to sleep early.”

“Whatever, I just want to get out of here,” Sam said.

Brooke and Sam were in Sam’s room lying on her bed. They were lying on their backs trying to fall asleep.

“We should’ve taken a shower,” Brooke commented.

“But then we’d have to rip our shirts off since we can’t take them off with these oh so fashionable bracelets on,” Sam said sarcastically. “And then we wouldn’t be able to put a shirt on.”

“That’s true. We wouldn‘t want to walk around in only our jeans,” Brooke yawned. “Goodnight.”

“Goodnight,” Sam said.

Brooke and Sam and gotten the cuffs off around eleven in the morning. It was now two in the afternoon and they were eating ice cream and talking in Brooke’s room.

“Have you told Josh about us?” Sam asked.

“Yeah, I called him earlier,” Brooke said. “He took it pretty well. He said if he couldn’t have me he was glad you were the one to get me.”

“Aw,” Sam smiled. “Are you sure that’s what he said?”

“Yeah,” Brooke said scooping up some ice cream.

Mike knocked on Brooke’s room door which was already half open.

“Hey dad,” Brooke greeted.

“Hey girls,” Mike smiled. “Jane and I are leaving for my business trip in about five minutes. We’re going to be gone for about two days.”

“Alright,” Sam said.

“You both know the rules,” Jane said entering Brooke’s room. “And it’s nice to see you two getting along. What changed your attitudes towards each other?”

Both girls shrugged.

“Okay well, behave yourselves,” Jane instructed. “We’re going to be late if we don’t leave now. We’ll call you when we get there. Bye.”

“Bye,” the girls both said.

“What do you want to do now?” Brooke asked after their parents left.

Sam placed her bowl of ice cream on the night stand. “I just want to lay here next to you.”

“Sounds nice,” Brooke said as she put her bowl down and cuddled up to Sam.

"I have a confession to make,” Sam said

“What’s that?” Brooke asked.

“I kind of found the box you kept of things that have to do with me in your closet,” Sam said.

“And I kinda read your diary,” Brooke admitted. “I guess we’re even.”

Sam laughed and rested her head on Brooke’s shoulder. “I’ll yell at you about that later. I‘m too happy right now.”

Brooke smiled. “I’m looking forward to it.”

-the end-