Title: Calm Before the Storm

Author: LoveandFury

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

Rating:PG-13

Couple-Sam/Brooke. Brooke/Josh. Sam/George. Possibly Lily/Josh and Carmen/George.

Summary: Brooke and Sam are secretly dating each other but they're still involved with their boyfriends Josh and George.

Chapter One

Brooke and Sam were sitting at their separate lunch tables with their boyfriends. Sam was with George and Brooke was with Josh. The two girls had been staring at each other for awhile now.

“Sam,” George waved his hand in front of the girl’s face. “Earth to Sam.”

“Huh?” Sam shook her head to clear her thoughts.

“What are you staring at?” Lily asked.

“Nothing. I was just thinking,” Sam responded.

“Well what’s on your mind?” Carmen asked.

“Nothing,” Sam said.

“Are you okay?” George asked.

“Yeah,” Sam replied.

“Come on,” George said. “Let’s go get you some fresh air.”

At the popular table Brooke was trying to listen to what Nicole was saying but she was too busy watching Sam.

“Don’t you agree with me?” Nicole asked Brooke.

“Uh… totally,” Brooke said.

“Yo Brooke, I didn’t know you were down with child labor,” Sugar Daddy said.

“What?” Brooke asked. “I must’ve heard you wrong Nicole. I don’t agree with child labor.”

“You don’t look too well,” Josh said. “Are you feeling okay?”

“Yeah,” Brooke said. “I’m fine.”

Sam and Brooke were in class having a debate over something Nicole brought up.

“All popular people are not stuck up,” Brooke said.

“Oh yes they are,” Sam said.

“So you think I’m stuck up?” Brooke asked.

“Yeah,” Sam nodded. “You don’t care about anyone but yourself.”

“That is not true,” Mary Cherry said. “Brooke is a very thoughtful person y’all.”

“Children,” Bio Glass interrupted. “Discuss popularity on your own time.”

“Yes, Miss Glass sir,” Sam and Brooke muttered.

After class George went over to Sam and kissed her on the cheek. “Ready to go?”

“I need to work on an article,” Sam said. “I’ll meet you after your football practice.”

“Okay,” George said. “I’ll walk you.”

Josh went over to Brooke and kissed her deeply. “Do you have cheerleading practice?”

“Yeah,” Brooke nodded.

“Okay, I’ll see you after practice then?” Josh asked.

“Yep,” Brooke nodded.

Sam was in the journalist office when Brooke entered. Brooke went behind Sam’s chair and wrapped her arms around the girl the best she could while Sam was sitting.

“Hey,” Sam said without turning around.

“Hi,” Brooke placed a small kiss on Sam’s neck.

“We shouldn’t start anything. Someone might walk in,” Sam warned. “And I’m sorry I called you stuck up. I didn’t mean it. I was just trying to keep up appearance.”

“I know,” Brooke said.

Sam sighed. “You better go.”

“What’s wrong,” Brooke asked turning Sam around in her chair.

“Josh,” Sam replied dully. “Do you have to kiss him?”

“Do you have to kiss George?” Brooke answered Sam’s question with a question of her own.

“He kisses me,” Sam said. “I don’t kiss him.”

“Well Josh kissed me. Not the other way around,” Brooke said.

“Whatever,” Sam said.

“Sam we’ve talked about this,” Brooke said. “If we broke up with our boyfriends we wouldn’t have a good cover up to hide our relationship.”

“I’m just jealous is all,” Sam said.

“You shouldn’t be,” Brooke said. “You’re the only one for me, you know that.”

Sam smiled and pulled Brooke down to her for a kiss. “You should really go.”

“Yeah, I should,” Brooke stood up and blew a kiss to Sam as she left.

When Brooke arrived at the gym for cheerleading practice she saw that Nicole, Popita, and Mary Cherry had started without her.

“Hey Brookie,” Nicole said. “I was just teaching Mary Cherry and Popita the new moves we made up yesterday.”

“Okay,” Brooke said.

“So Brooke, how are you and Josh doing?” Popita asked.

“We’re doing okay,” Brooke said.

“People are starting to say George and Sam are the cutest couple in school,” Nicole said. “We can’t have that.”

“George and Sam the cutest couple?” Brooke asked. “That’s so not true.” Me and Sam are the cutest couple. Brooke thought.

“Are your parents allowing you to throw that party we talked about?” Nicole asked.

“No,” Brooke said. “They said we can only have a small gathering.”

“Pssh, we can have the party at my house then,” Nicole said. “My mother doesn’t care.”

“When?” Brooke asked.

“This Saturday,” Nicole said.

“Ah hafta spend time with my mother on Saturday,” Mary Cherry said. “Can ya move it up to Friday?”

“Friday it is,” Nicole said. “Brooke you better be there.”

“Don’t worry,” Brooke said. “I’ll be there.”

“Great,” Nicole said. “Invite whoever you want as long as I like them.”

“Are you inviting George?” Brooke asked.

“Of course,” Nicole said. “All the popular hot guys will be there.”

“You do know if you invite him he’ll bring Sam,” Popita pointed out.

“Damn it,” Nicole said. “Hm, I could just tell him not to bring her.”

“That’d be kinda mean,” Brooke said.

“Being mean is my forte,” Nicole said. “She probably wouldn’t want to go anyway.”

“Yeah, you’re probably right,” Brooke said.

Chapter Two

Sam was with George in the living room watching television when Mike and Jane entered the house.

“Hi,” Jane said to Sam and George. “How was school?”

“It was okay,” Sam said.

“Is Brooke home yet?” Mike asked.

“She’s out with Josh,” Sam replied.

“Well, when she gets back can you two clean out the basement,” Mike asked. “It’s a mess.”

“Okay,” Sam said.

“We can do it now,” George offered.

“No,” Sam said. “I’ll do it later with Brooke.”

“Are you sure you two won’t kill each other?” George asked.

“Yeah,” Sam said. “I’m sure we can manage.”

Mike and Jane went upstairs and George thought this would be a good time to have a real conversation with Sam about their relationship.

“Sam, are we okay?” George asked.

“Yeah,” Sam said. “Why?”

“You seem distant,” George said.

“I’m sorry,” Sam said. “I’ve just had a lot on my mind.”

“You know I’m here for you whenever you need to talk,” George said. “I love you.”

“George-” Sam began.

“I know you’re not ready to say it yet,” George said. “And I’m not saying I’m in love with you. I’m just saying I love you. Like a friend. I know it’ll progress into something more in the future.”

“I love you as a friend too,” Sam said.

“I should get home and get some work done,” George said. “I’ll call you later tonight.”

“Okay,” Sam got up with George and walked him to the door.

George kissed Sam softly and then placed another kiss on her forehead. “Bye.”

Sam closed the door after George walked out and sighed. “I am a horrible person.”

Brooke and Josh were in Josh’s room talking about random stuff when Josh began to kiss her. Brooke wanted to push him away but she was his girlfriend and making out is what they’re supposed to do. With a heavy heart she kissed back. When Josh tried to put his hand under her shirt Brooke stopped his hand.

“What’s the matter?” Josh asked. “Don’t you want to?”

Brooke shook her head. “Not really.”

“Is it me?” Josh asked.

“No,” Brooke said. “I’m just not in the mood.”

“You’re never in the mood,” Josh complained. “We slept together that one time and I know it ruined our relationship. But we’re back together now. Can’t we start with a clean slate?”

“Is that all our relationship is to you?” Brooke asked. “Sex?”

“No,” Josh said. “I just want to show you how much I love you.”

“I should go,” Brooke said. “My dad is probably wondering where I am.”

“Okay,” Josh said. “I’m sorry I upset you.”

“It’s okay,” Brooke said. “I’ll talk to you later.”

Brooke walked into her house and greeted her parents. “I’m home.”

“Hey honey. Did you have a good day?“ Mike asked.

“It was okay,“ Brooke said.

“You and Sam have to clean out the basement. Sam has already started,” Mike said. “And ask Sam what she wants for dinner. We’re going to order out.”

Brooke nodded and went downstairs to find the girl she loved. When she got downstairs she saw Sam sweeping up the floor. “Hey love.”

“About time you got here,” Sam said. “This basement is a mess.”

“You look like you’re doing a good job,” Brooke smirked. “You’d make a perfect housewife.”

“Ha,” Sam said. “In your dreams.”

Brooke kissed Sam lightly on her lips. “How was your day?”

“Okay, but I feel bad,” Sam said. “George said he loves me as a friend and he thinks it’s going to progress into something more in the future. I really wanted to tell him we had no future and break up with him but I couldn’t bring myself to do it. He’s so sweet.”

Brooke hugged Sam. “Things will be okay. We’ll work something out. Until then we have to keep this us thing a secret and we have to stay with our boyfriends.”

“Yeah, I know,” Sam moved a strand of hair out of Brooke’s face and stared into her eyes. “I’ve wanted to say this to you for sometime now but I didn’t know how you’d react and I’m not use to being in a real relationship like the one I’m in with you. It’s very intense and it scares me how much I care for you. I’ve never felt this way for anyone before. I was thinking of having a candlelit dinner with slow music playing in the background when I told you this but that’s just not me. I found it to be a little too cliché so I’ll say it now. Brooke, I love you. I love you so much it hurts sometimes. I want to be with you until the day I die. You mean the world to me.”

Brooke smiled with tears in her eyes. Sam had finally said the words she had been waiting to hear. “I love you too Sam. I really do.” Brooke hugged Sam tightly. “You make me so happy.”

Sam grinned and kissed Brooke. After several minutes Brooke and Sam ended up on the old worn out mattress that was on the floor. Sam was on top of Brooke kissing her along her collar bone. Sam was always the dominate one when it came to sex. When she first slept with Brooke she was a little shaky because she was a virgin but after a couple of times she got bold and Brooke wasn’t complaining. When it came to the other part of their relationship Brooke was in control. The blonde had more experience in dating so Sam always let her choose where they would go out to eat or what they would do on their date which they had very few of. Sam knew if she wanted to take full control of Brooke she could. Brooke wasn’t weak but she wasn’t really a leader. Hanging around Nicole too long turned her into a follower. Brooke was a people pleaser and Sam wanted to change that.

“Brooke, did you ask Sam what she wanted to eat?” Mike yelled from the door of the basement.

Sam got off of Brooke quickly and Brooke stood up. “Yeah!” She looked to Sam and the brunette just shrugged. “We agreed on pizza.”

“Alright,” Mike said.

When the two girls heard the door close they let out a breath of relief.

“We need to be more careful,” Sam said.

“It’s kinda hard for me to keep my hands off of you,” Brooke admitted.

Sam grinned. “Yeah, I’m a magnet. Let’s hurry up and clean this place so we can go upstairs.”

Chapter Three

Sam, Harrison, Lily, and Carmen were standing outside talking. They had gotten to school early and decided to relax outside before they went in.

“I heard Nicole is throwing a party,” Harrison said.

“So?” Sam said. That means Brooke is going with Josh. Why didn’t she tell me? Sam thought.

“So she might invite George and that means you get to go to a popular party,” Harrison explained.

“I would never go to a party thrown by Satan,” Sam said. “And it’s at her house. She’d probably murder me and hang my head on her room door.”

“Sam that’s gross,” Carmen said.

“Yeah it really is,” Lily said. “But Nicole would probably do something like that. She’s a psycho freak.”

“Speak of the devil,” Harrison said.

Nicole walked up to the four brunettes with Mary Cherry, Brooke, Josh, and Sugar Daddy.

“Hey Carmen, nice to see you lost weight,” Nicole said. Carmen had lost weight over the summer and everyone was surprised when they saw her. “Hope you don’t gain it back.”

“Why must you speak to us?” Lily asked. “We weren’t bothering you.”

“It’s my job as a popular person,” Nicole said.

“Yo, let’s just go inside,” Sugar Daddy said.

The blondes went inside and Brooke stole a quick glance at Sam. She was hurt when Sam averted her gaze elsewhere. Is Sam angry at me for something? She went inside Kennedy High and made a mental note to talk to Sam later about this.

“I can’t stand them,” Carmen said.

“Brooke’s not that bad,” Sam said. “I mean, Nicole and Mary Cherry are a lot worse.”

“Yeah they are,” Lily agreed. “I don’t know why Brooke hangs out with them.”

School was almost over. Sam just needed to survive one more class and she could go home and sleep. She opened her locker and a note fell from her it onto the floor. Sam picked it up and looked around. She looked at the note and frowned. Wait for me after school at your car. I’m sorry if I did anything to upset you. I love you. There was no name signed. Sam wasn’t sure if this note was from Brooke or George.

“Hey, whatcha got there?” Lily asked walking up to her friend.

“Just a note,” Sam said stuffing the paper into her pocket.

“From George?” Lily asked.

“Yeah,” Sam nodded. “Ready for class?”

“Yup,” Lily said. “Let’s go.” Lily put her arm threw Sam’s and they began to walk to their physics class.

“So what have you been up to lately?” Sam asked. “We haven’t really been talking much.”

“Yeah, with work and school I don’t have much of a life anymore,” Lily said.

“You, me, Harrison, and Carmen should get together on Friday and just hang out at my house,” Sam suggested. “What do you say?”

“I’ll be there,” Lily said.

Sam was sitting on the hood of her car waiting for whoever left her the note. After waiting for a couple of more seconds Brooke approached the car.

“Hey,” Brooke said. “You got my note?”

“Yeah Princess,” Sam nodded. “You should’ve left a name. I didn’t know who wrote it.”

“Sorry,” Brooke said. “I didn’t want anyone to know I write it if they saw it.”

“So why do think I’m mad at you?” Sam asked.

“You looked away when I looked at you this morning,” Brooke said.

“I’m not mad at you. It’s just…why didn’t you tell me you are going to a party with Josh?” Sam asked.

“I didn’t want you to get upset,” Brooke said. “I’m not going to do anything with him. It’s just a party. You can come if you want.”

“You know I don’t want to,” Sam said.

Brooke sighed. “Are you angry?”

Sam shook her head. “No, I would just like you to tell me these things.”

“Okay,” Brooke said. “Then I guess I should tell you Josh wants to sleep with me.”

“What? Are you?” Sam asked.

“Of course not,” Brooke said. “I would never do that to you. Not even to keep up appearance.”

Sam relaxed.

“Move away from Sam before you get lice or something,” Nicole said to Brooke as she walked up to the car. “What are you talking to her about?”

Sam rolled her eyes. “Go back to Hell Satan.”

“It’s being redecorated. I have to stay up here for awhile,” Nicole retorted. “Now why are you over here?” Nicole asked Brooke.

“My favorite necklace is missing and I thought Sam took it,” Brooke answered.

“Don’t worry,” Sam said. “I would never steal one of your precious jewelry items.”

“You have before,” Brooke said.

“One freakin’ bracelet,” Sam said. “Get over it.”

“Come on,” Nicole said. “We’ve been standing here too long. People might start to think we’re associating with her.”

Harrison approached Sam after Nicole and Brooke walked away. “What were they bothering you about?” Harrison asked.

“Something about a stupid necklace Brooke lost and thinks I took,” Sam said.

“You and Brooke need to learn to get along,” Harrison said. “At least learn to be civil towards one another.”

“Right,” Sam said. “Lily and I decided we as a group don’t spend enough time together anymore and we want us all to spend some time together tomorrow. Are you in?”

“Hell yeah,” Harrison said. “I love spending time with my girls.”

Sam smiled. “Great.”

Chapter Four

George was waiting for Sam outside the Novak when Brooke exited. "Hey Brooke."

"Hi George," Brooke greeted.

"Is Sam still in there?" George asked. "It's been awhile."

"Oh, sorry, my fault. We just got into an argument and now she's upset," Brooke said. "She'll be fine though." The truth was Brooke and Sam were having a very heavy make out session. Brooke took off and Sam came out of the Novak.

"Are you okay?" George asked. "Brooke said you guys got into a fight and you were upset."

"Yeah," Sam said. "I was just cooling down."

"Did you hear about Nicole's party?" George asked.

"Yeah, I'm not going," Sam said. "I'm gonna hang with my friends."

"Oh," George said.

"You can go," Sam said. "Don't make me ruin your fun."

"Are you sure?" George asked.

"Absolutely," Sam said.

George kissed Sam. "You're the best."

You won't be saying that when you find about me and Brooke. Sam thought.

"Brooke, I have a perfect idea for the party," Nicole walked up to Brooke with Mary Cherry and Popita by her side.

"Really? What is it?" Brooke asked.

"You steal Sam's diary and we will read it at the party," Nicole said. "It'll be great. She'll be embarrassed and probably never want to show her face again."

"I can't do that," Brooke said. "That's harsh."

Nicole folded her arms across her chest. "A year ago you would've died to do something like this. Hell, it probably would've been you that came up with the idea. Now you care about hurting her? What's going on with you Brooke?"

"Nothing," Brooke said.

"I agree with Brooke," Popita said. "That is kind of harsh. And what if she strikes back and does something just as bad?"

"Y'all are no fun," Mary Cherry said.

"Fine, forget I even brought it up," Nicole said.

"Thanks," Brooke said. "I should go to class."

"I'll walk with you," Popita said.

After the two girls left Nicole turned to Mary Cherry. "We're gonna steal that damn diary ourselves. We can pay Brooke a visit after school and hope Sam's not in her room and then one of us will grab it and leave."

"This is gonna be so excitin'," Mary Cherry grinned.

Sam and Brooke were home alone and they decided to use this to their advantage. The two girls were in Sam's room and Sam had just pulled Brooke's shirt off.

"It's been too long since we've done this," Brooke muttered.

"Way too long," Sam agreed as she captured Brooke's lips with her own.

Brooke moaned when Sam bit down on her lip and Sam grinned. The brunette moved her lips to Brooke's neck and began to suck and nip at the flesh. Brooke moved Sam's head away from her neck.

"Josh-" Brooke began.

Sam stopped all activity. "Did you just call me Josh? You just called me Josh."

"Whoa, you didn't let me finish my sentence. Calm down," Brooke said. "I was gonna say Josh is going to know I've been with someone else if he sees a hickey on my neck."

"Just tell him he gave it to you and doesn't remember," Sam said. "He'll believe you."

"Sam," Brooke said sternly.

Sam kissed Brooke on her stomach and began to leave a love bite there. Brooke placed her hand through Sam's hair and jumped slightly when she heard the doorbell ring.

"Argh," Sam got off of Brooke and Brooke pulled her shirt back on.

"Whoever that is needs to die," Sam said.

"Aren't your friends coming over?" Brooke asked.

"Not until seven," Sam said. "I'll go see who it is."

"I'll be down in a minute," Brooke said.

When Sam got downstairs she opened the door and saw Nicole and Mary Cherry. The two blondes pushed passed Sam and called for Brooke.

"Rude much?" Sam asked.

"Shove it Spam," Nicole said.

Brooke came downstairs and saw her two friends. "What are you guys doing here?"

"We want to make sure you pick out the perfect outfit to wear at the party to impress Josh," Nicole said. "So let's head upstairs and get started."

"Okay," Brooke said.

Sam went into the living room and turned on the television.

"How about a dress?" Nicole asked.

"No," Brooke said. "How about a skirt and a fancy shirt?"

"That's fine too," Nicole said. "Mary Cherry could you go to my car and get my cell phone for me? I think I left it in there."

"Sure Nic," Mary Cherry said.

Mary Cherry left the room and quietly walked into Sam's room. She looked around a bit before making her way towards Sam's dresser drawers. She pulled Sam's underwear out of the draw and studied it. "I didn't know Sam had good taste in under garments." Mary Cherry put the underwear back and found what she was looking for. She grabbed the diary and put it in her big purse. "Mission accomplished."

She went back into Brooke's room and sat down on the bed. "Sorry Nic, your phone wasn't in your car," Mary Cherry said. She gave Nicole a quick thumbs up and patted her purse.

"I must've left it at home then," Nicole said. "I need to start getting my house ready for the party. I'll see you later tonight Brooke."

"Okay, bye," Brooke said.

Chapter Five

"No, are you sure you didn't read that whole thing wrong?" Nicole was in her room shocked by what Mary Cherry had just read to her from Sam's diary. "Brooke and Sam are together? This is unbelievable."

"Are we still gonna read this at that party?" Mary Cherry asked.

"Hell no," Nicole said. "This will ruin Brooke and if Brooke is ruined so are we. Brooke... gay? I would have never thought."

"And she's cheatin' on Josh," Mary Cherry added.

"With Sam. I need alcohol in my system," Nicole said. "I feel like I'm in a daytime soap opera."

"Well what are we gonna do?" Mary Cherry asked.

"We need to talk some sense into Brooke," Nicole said. "We will do that during the party."

"Are we gonna tell Josh?" Mary Cherry asked.

"No," Nicole said. "That's up to Brooke."

"I need to go to my house to get a few things," Mary Cherry said.

"Like what?" Nicole asked.

"A cross and holy water," Mary Cherry said.

"She's gay," Nicole said. "Not a vampire."

Mary Cherry ignored her as she quickly exited Nicole's room.

Brooke spun around so Sam could see what she was wearing to the party. "What do you think."

"Put more clothes on," Sam ordered.

Brooke rolled her eyes. "Don't get jealous. I'll be thinking about you the whole time I'm there."

The doorbell rang and Sam went to answer it. "Hey guys."

Carmen, Lily and Harrison walked into the Palace and greeted Brooke as she left. They went up to Sam's room and sat down in various parts of her room. Lily sat on the chair near Sam's desk. Harrison sat on the floor facing the bed. Carmen sat with Sam on the bed.

"So what are our plans for the day?" Harrison asked.

"Just to talk," Sam said. "We don't do much of that anymore."

"Alright," Carmen said. "Who wants to start?"

"I will," Lily said. "I know we all have our own things going on and Sam has a boyfriend to spend time with but I hope our friendship remains intact and we still come to each other whenever we need to talk. I love you guys and I'm always here for you."

"We love you too," Sam, Harrison, and Carmen said.

"I'm up next," Harrison said. "I'm finally over Brooke McQueen. I have found a new person to crush on from afar."

"And who would that be?" Carmen asked.

"Popita Fresh," Harrison grinned.

"I guess I'll go next," Carmen said. "Um, as you all know I lost a few pounds over the summer. I feel totally good about myself now and I want to thank you guys for accepting me for who I am on the inside and out."

Sam smiled. "I guess I'm next. I just want to thank you guys for putting up with me. I know I can be a major pain."

"Not all the time," Lily said.

A knock sounded at Sam's door and she told whoever it was they could come in.

"Hey," Jane said walking into the room with freshly baked cookies. Mike was with her also. "I thought you guys might be hungry."

"Thanks Mrs. McPherson...McQueen...Pherson," Harrison said.

"McPherson is fine. And I must warn you, Mike helped with the cookies," Jane joked.

"Haha," Mike said with a smile.

"I'm sure they're fine," Sam said. "Thanks guys."

"We're going to head in early," Mike said. "Could you call Brooke for us and tell her not to forget when her curfew is?"

"Sure thing," Sam said getting ready to leave her room.

"Why don't you just use your cell instead of going downstairs?" Harrison asked.

"I'm not wasting my minutes on Brooke McQueen," Sam said.

Sam told her friends she'd be right back and went to get the phone from downstairs. She dialed Brooke's cell phone number and after two rings Brooke answered.

"Hello?" Brooke said.

"Having fun?" Sam asked.

"Not really," Brooke said. "Are you just calling to make sure I behave myself?"

"No, your dad wanted me to remind you that you have a curfew," Sam said. "But since you brought it up, are you behaving yourself?"

"Of course I am," Brooke said. "I have to go. Mary Cherry and Nicole are headed my way." Brooke hung up the phone and put it in her purse.

"Brooke, follow us upstairs," Nicole said.

"What's up?" Brooke asked.

"We need ta talk ta ya in private," Mary Cherry said.

"Okay," Brooke followed her friends upstairs.

When they got to Nicole's room Nicole closed her room door and turned to face Brooke. "We know." She said simply.

"You know what?" Brooke asked.

"About Sam," Mary Cherry said pulling a bottle of holy water out of her purse. "But I'm gonna save you." She opened the bottle and splashed some on Brooke.

"Hey!" Brooke said when the water hit her shirt.

"Mary Cherry where did you get that? You know what, never mind," Nicole said.

Brooke's breath caught in her throat. "What about Sam?"

Mary Cherry pulled Sam's diary out of her purse and brandished it above her head. "We read this. It's Sam's diary. I was rather shocked. I still can't believe that. that. Nic finish my sentence for me. I just can't bring myself to say it."

"You and Sam are dating," Nicole said. "There are so many things wrong with this I don't know where to begin." Nicole took Sam's diary and flipped to a random page. "Brooke and I have our one month anniversary today. I'm going to try to make it special for her. Blah, blah, blah," Nicole slammed the diary shut.

"How did you get that?" Brooke asked.

"Don't worry about it," Nicole said.

"Are you still going to read it to everyone?" Brooke asked.

"No," Nicole tossed the diary to Brooke. "There's too much at stake. I can't believe you kept this from us for so long."

"Yeah, and whata 'bout Josh?" Mary Cherry asked.

Brooke sighed and decided to tell her friends everything from the beginning.

Chapter Six

Brooke had just finished telling her friends how Sam and her had gotten together. It was a real short story. Brooke and Sam were in a heated argument when Brooke had grabbed Sam and kissed her. After a week of avoiding each other Sam told Brooke how she felt and they got together. They had decided to stay with their boyfriends and pretend to hate one another so no one would suspect anything.

"So you like. love her?" Nicole asked.

"Yeah," Brooke said.

"So this is a long term thing?" Nicole asked.

"Uh huh," Brooke nodded.

"What a load of crap!" Nicole shouted. "Of all the available girls why Spam?"

"Would you rather me be with April Tuna?" Brooke asked.

Nicole glared at her. "What's wrong with Josh?"

"Nothing," Brooke said. "He's just not for me."

Mary Cherry was sitting a few feet away from Brooke with her cross in her hand.

Brooke rolled her eyes at the Texan. "I don't have a disease. You can sit over here."

"Are ya gonna hit on me or somethin'?" Mary Cherry asked.

"Not even if I were drunk," Brooke replied.

"Okay," Mary Cherry joined the other two girls on Nicole's bed.

"Besides the being gay thing and dating Sam, I must congratulate you on being a player," Nicole said.

"I am not a player," Brooke said.

"I'm gonna go back to the party," Nicole said. "And don't worry. We won't say anything."

"These lips are sealed," Mary Cherry stated.

Brooke entered her house and quietly went upstairs to Sam's room. She found the brunette sleeping. She went over to the bed and kneeled down as she shook Sam awake. "Sam."

"What?" Sam muttered.

"I have bad news," Brooke said.

"How bad?" Sam asked with her eyes still closed.

"Mary Cherry and Nicole stole your diary," Brooke said. "They know about us."

Sam shot up out of her bed and began pacing. "Who did they tell?"

"No one," Brooke said handing Sam's diary to her.

"Are you sure?" Sam asked.

"Yeah," Brooke said. "But I don't know how long they'll keep this a secret."

"What are you saying?" Sam asked.

"We should start telling people," Brooke said. "Like your friends and our boyfriends."

"Please tell me I'm dreaming," Sam begged.

Brooke shook her head. "We'll make it through this."

Sam's eyes grew wide. "Are we telling the parentals?"

"No," Brooke answered quickly. "We'll hold off on that for as long as we can."

"Good," Sam said. "So where do we begin?"

"We tell Harrison, Carmen, and Lily. Popita should know too," Brooke said.

"Okay," Sam said. "Are Satan and Mary Cherry going to try and kill me or something?"

"I hope not," Brooke said. "I'm gonna go take a shower and get some sleep so I'm prepared for tomorrow."

"Okay," Sam said. "Goodnight."

Brooke walked into Kennedy High the next day and several people turned to watch her walk down the hallway. The students began to whisper to each other and then Josh approached her.

"Is it true?" Josh asked.

"Is what true?" Brooke asked.

"Are you and Sam together?" Josh asked.

"I...how did-" Brooke was cut off by Josh.

"Everyone's talking about it," Josh said. "So is it true?"

Brooke nodded.

Josh ran his hand through his hair and went to go find George.

Nicole quickly ran up to Brooke. "I had nothing to do with this."

"Then how does everyone know?" Brooke asked trying not to cry.

Mary Cherry went over to her friends. "I didn't utter a word about it to anyone."

"Someone had to tell," Brooke said.

Popita approached her friends and gave Brooke a hug. "I was surprised when I found out but whatever floats your boat. I'm happy for you."

"Thanks Poppy," Brooke smiled.

April Tuna walked up to the cheerleaders with a confident look on her face. "Nice party yesterday Nicole."

"What?" Nicole gave April a disgusting look. "How would you know."

"I snuck in through one of your house windows," April Tuna grinned. "I overheard your little conversation with Brooke and decided telling people would help me become popular for at least a second."

"How could you?" Brooke asked.

"I can't believe you were in my house," Nicole shuddered. "I'm gonna have to call someone to clean my house from top to bottom. I hope you didn't sit on anything cause then I'd need new furniture."

"I think someone needs an ass kickin'," Mary Cherry said.

April Tuna looked from Mary Cherry to Nicole. "I can take you both."

As the two blondes moved closer to April Tuna a teacher appeared. "Is there a problem here?"

"No sir," April Tuna said. "We were just chatting." April winked at the cheerleaders and then walked off.

"Sam we're your best friends and you didn't tell us about this," Carmen said. "I thought you trusted us."

"I do," Sam said. "I was afraid. I didn't know how you'd react. And I swear me and Brooke were going to tell you today."

"I'm guessing your parents don't know," Harrison said.

"No," Sam said. "OhmyGod! What if the principal calls home and tells them what's going on?"

"Deny, deny, deny," Lily said.

"Are you guys mad at me?" Sam asked.

"Yes," Carmen answered. "We'll talk later. George is headed this way."

"No, guys, don't leave me," Sam begged.

Her friends left her anyway and George turned Sam around to face him. "Josh told me something I didn't really like."

"And what would that be?" Sam asked.

"You're cheating on me with Brooke," George said. "I don't believe this. I'm...argh. I can't even look at you right now." George left without letting Sam speak.

"That went better than I thought," Sam said to herself.

Chapter Seven

Brooke and Sam were talking in the Novak about their current situation.

"What did Josh say?" Sam asked.

"Not much," Brooke replied. "What'd George say?"

"Not much," Sam said. "I think they're taking it pretty well."

"Why'd you have to go and write about us in your diary?" Brooke asked.

"Whoa, are you blaming this on me?" Sam asked.

"No," Brooke said. "Sorry, I'm just upset. How'd your friends take it?"

"Not bad," Sam said. "They are mad at me though. This is why you shouldn't trust Mary Cherry and Satan."

"This part isn't their fault. April Tuna snuck into Nicole's house and was listening at the door," Brooke said.

"People actually believe something out of April Tuna's mouth?" Sam asked.

"This is great! I should've thought of this before. Couldn't we just tell everyone she lied and waned attention?" Brooke asked.

"Josh and George already know the truth," Sam said. "I don't want to lie anymore."

"Okay fine, we can lie to everyone else then," Brooke said.

"No, I want everyone to know about us," Sam said. "Are you ashamed of me or something?"

"No. I'm just not ready for this to be out," Brooke said.

"You told me we'd make it through this," Sam said.

"And we will," Brooke said. "And I have one request."

"What?" Sam asked.

"Can we still not act like a couple in school?" Brooke asked.

"Why?" Sam asked.

Carmen and Lily entered the Novak.

"Hi," Sam said to her friends.

"Can we talk to Brooke alone?" Lily asked Sam.

Sam looked over to Brooke. "Sure." Sam left.

"Brooke, have a seat," Lily instructed.

Brooke did as she was told and looked up at the two brunettes.

"Sam doesn't like to show her feelings much but she hurts easily," Carmen said. "Do not hurt her or we will hurt you. Got it?"

"Yes," Brooke said.

"Okay, we're done here," Lily said. "Now sign my petition." Lily handed the blonde a clipboard and a pen.

Brooke didn't bother reading it. She signed it and handed it back to Lily. "Um, are you guys okay with me and Sam being together?" Brooke asked.

"I think I am. I don't know," Carmen answered. "Let's go Lily."

The girls left leaving Brooke alone. The blonde decided to go find Josh. They had a lot to talk about.

School was over and Josh had been avoiding Brooke the best he could. He was with George at his locker putting his things away when Lily walked up to him with Carmen by her side.

"Would you gentlemen sign my petition please?" Lily asked.

"Sure Lily," Josh said. He took the petition, read over it, and signed it. He handed it over to George and he signed it.

"Thanks," Lily said when he gave her the clipboard.

"We're sorry about Sam and Brooke," Carmen said. "Your hearts must be broken."

"I'll be fine," George said. "I kinda new it wasn't going to last much longer. Sam was being distant. But I'm still angry."

"Same with Brooke," Josh said.

"I understand your mad at them but please don't stay mad at them for long," Lily said. "They love you guys... as friends."

Josh smiled. "Thanks."

The girls said bye to the jocks and took off.

"You think Carmen would go out with me?" George asked Josh.

"You just got out of a relationship," Josh said. "She'll think you're on the rebound."

"I'm not," George said. "I like her. I'll wait awhile before asking her out."

"You're taking the break up well," Josh said.

"As angry as I am, what's done is done," George said. "After thinking about it and tackling a few guys during practice harder than I should have I feel refreshed. I still want to talk to Sam though. We need to clear some things up."

"I like Lily," Josh confessed. "I was thinking about asking her out if things didn't work out between me and Brooke and well. things didn't work out."

"We should ask them out," George said.

"Josh," Brooke said walking up to him. "Can we talk please?"

"Fine," Josh said.

"I'll see you later," George said to Josh.

"George, can you stay too?" Brooke asked.

"Sure," George folded his arms across his chest and waited for Brooke to speak.

Brooke took a deep breath and began to speak. "I know you're both upset and you have every right to be. I really am sorry me and Sam didn't tell you. We used you and that wasn't right."

"You really should've said something," Josh said. "I would've been upset but I would've been glad you told me the truth."

"I know," Brooke said. "And George, I'm sorry about this I know you were really into Sam."

George just nodded. "I'm gonna go."

George left leaving Brooke and Josh alone.

"Are we going to be okay?" Brooke asked.

"Eventually," Josh said and took off.

Sam was opening her car door when she saw George headed her way and became nervous. "Hi."

"Hey," George said. "So. you and Brooke?"

"Yeah," Sam nodded.

"You used me," George stated.

"I'm sorry," Sam said. "I didn't know how to tell you."

"You didn't know how to tell me you were cheating on me? George asked. "Why didn't you just break up with me?"

Sam bowed her head. "If me and Brooke stayed with you guys we thought no one would ever suspect anything was going on."

"It's going to take me awhile to forgive," George said.

"I know," Sam said.

"Bye," George left and Sam watched as he walked to his car.

Chapter Eight

When Sam and Brooke entered the Palace they were greeted by their parents.

"Living room now," Jane instructed.

Sam and Brooke glanced at each other and followed their parents into the living room.

"We got a phone call from April Tuna," Mike said.

"She told us something bizarre," Jane said.

"We thought it was a joke at first but then she told us to find and read Sam's diary," Mike said.

"You should've burned that thing," Brooke muttered.

"I wish I did," Sam sighed.

"So it's true?" Jane asked.

"You have it in writing," Brooke pointed out.

"So. what happens now?" Sam asked. "You make us break up? Send one of us off to boarding school?"

"No," Mike said. "We talk."

"Talk?" Brooke repeated.

"Yep," Jane nodded. "Just not right now."

The two grown-ups got up and left.

"They were pretty calm," Brooke said.

"Calm before the storm," Sam said.

Mike and Jane were in their room discussing their daughters.

"Brooke and Sam-" Mike began.

"Are together," Jane finished. "This is-"

"Disturbing?" Mike said.

"In a way," Jane said. "Should we-"

"Make them break up?" Mike asked. "Well, they're not really related and we can't tell them-"

"Who they can and cannot date," Jane said. "That's true."

"And people will probably be giving them a hard time," Mike said.

"Yeah, they don't need us breathing down their necks," Jane said. "Are we going to go talk to them now?"

"No, later tonight when we're prepared," Mike said.

Brooke entered Sam's room and closed the door. "We need to talk."

"About what?" Sam asked.

"Us," Brooke said.

"You already told me we shouldn't act like a couple around people," Sam sighed.

"I know," Brooke said. "I was just thinking maybe we should take a little break. Just until things calm down and people stop talking about us."

"No one at school cares," Sam said. "They'll talk about it for awhile and then it'll be yesterday news."

"You don't know that," Brooke said.

"Are you that worried about your popularity?" Sam asked.

"No. yes," Brooke said. "I don't know."

"Whatever," Sam said. "Just get out."

"Sam," Brooke began. "I love you."

Sam laughed. "Then why are you leaving me?"

"I can't handle all of this," Brooke said.

"All of what?" Sam asked. "Being bi? Being with me? Losing your popularity? Being judged? What can't you handle?"

"All of it," Brooke cried. "I'm so used to being the perfect one."

"No one's perfect Brooke," Sam said.

"I know, but the people at school think I am," Brooke stated.

"And who are you living for? You or the people at school?" Sam asked.

Brooke didn't answer and Sam decided she didn't want to be here anymore.

"I'm going out," Sam said leaving her room.

An hour later Mike and Jane were ready to talk to Sam and Brooke about their newfound relationship. When they called the girls down to the living room only Brooke came.

"Where's Sam?" Jane asked.

"We had a fight," Brooke said. "She left. Probably went to a friend's house."

"Fight about what?" Mike asked.

"I told her we should take a break," Brooke said.

"Oh honey, we weren't going to make you two break up," Jane said. "We were just going to talk."

Brooke looked down. "I'm just a little overwhelmed right now."

"Do you want to talk about it?" Jane asked.

Brooke nodded her head.

Jane pushed Mike out of the living room. "Let me talk to her alone."

"Okay," Mike said. "I'll be upstairs if you need me."

Jane pulled Brooke over to the couch and they both sat down. "What's wrong?"

"I'm worried about my popularity. I know it's stupid but it's all I have working for me. That's what I'm known for. Without it I'm a nobody," Brooke explained. "I love Sam. I really do."

"You just don't know if you want to sacrifice your popularity to be with her?" Jane asked.

"Yeah," Brooke said.

"Well here's some advice for you," Jane said. "You're not going to be in school forever. When you're out in the real world no one's going to care if you were popular in high school or not. Now do you really want to throw away your relationship with Sam for something that doesn't matter?"

"No," Brooke smiled. "Thanks Jane."

"You're welcome," Jane said.

"And thanks for being cool about this whole thing," Brooke said.

"That's why Sam calls me the cool mom," Jane joked.

Brooke hugged Jane and then got up and left.

Jane sighed. "I'm getting too old for this."

Chapter Nine

"We're sorry Sam," Lily said trying to console her friend.

"Maybe she's just having a freak out moment and she doesn't know what she's doing," Carmen said.

"You guys should sit down and discuss this," Lily said.

"There's nothing to discuss," Sam said. "She broke up with me. She was probably only using me and really wanted to be with Josh. I'm such an idiot. I need more ice cream."

"You finished it," Carmen said. "I'll go buy you some more."

"Thanks," Sam sniffed.

Carmen got up and gestured for Lily to come over to her. Lily unwrapped her arms from around Sam and went over to Carmen. "What's up?"

"I'm gonna go confront Brooke," Carmen said. "I warned her not to hurt Sam and she hurt her anyway."

"Yell at her enough for the both of us," Lily said. "And don't forget the ice cream."

Carmen nodded and left to go to the Palace.

Mike had let Carmen into the house and the girl was now making her way up the stairs. She knocked on Brooke's door and heard the blonde tell her to come in. When she entered the room she saw Brooke's face fall.

"I thought you were Sam," Brooke said.

"She's at Lily's house," Carmen said. "Crying about how you broke up with her because you were worried about your popularity. I told you not to hurt her."

"I was just scared," Brooke said. "I don't want to break up with Sam. I was being stupid."

"Very stupid," Carmen said. "Once she's mellowed out she'll come back home and you can talk to her then."

"Thanks for being such a good friend to Sam," Brooke said. "You, Harrison, and Lily are great friends."

"Thanks," Carmen said. "Maybe we can be friends too. If you want to be."

Brooke smiled. "That'd be nice."

"Great," Carmen smiled. "Do you have any ice cream in your refrigerator?"

Sam walked into her house and locked the door before going up the stairs.

"Sam," Mike said from in the kitchen.

Sam walked backwards down the stairs and cautiously entered the kitchen. "Hey."

"Hi," Mike said. "How are you?"

"Been better," Sam said. "Where's my mom?"

"She's sleeping," Mike said. "Can we talk?"

"Um, sure," Sam said. "If it's about Brooke, we're not dating anymore so you don't have to worry."

"She told me," Mike said. "But she was just scared. She doesn't want to end it with you. I know my daughter and I know that she loves you."

"Well she has some issues she needs to work out," Sam said.

"I know you don't really like me," Mike said. "And I'm not trying to replace your father. I just want us to get along. I want to be there for you."

"I don't hate you," Sam said. "And I know you're not trying to take my dad's place. I just. I miss him."

Mike nodded. "I understand."

"Is Brooke still awake?" Sam asked.

"She's waiting up for you," Mike said. "Take it easier on her. She's used to being popular. It's all she's ever known. Losing it is like taking everything away from her. But I think she's ready for a change."

Sam fidgeted for a bit and then gave Mike a hug. Mike was surprised but hugged back.

Sam slowly opened Brooke's room door and saw the girl studying. She knocked on the door and Brooke looked up.

"Hi," Brooke said as she put her studying materials away. "I've been waiting for you."

"Brooke, I don't want us to be over. but I don't want you to lose your popularity if it means so much to you," Sam said as she walked further into the room.

"I'm sorry. I don't want us to break up. I don't care about my popularity," Brooke walked over to Sam. "I care about you."

"Are you sure?" Sam asked.

"Positive," Brooke said.

The two girls hugged.

The next day at Kennedy High the two girls got a few stares but for the most part no one cared that they were together.

"See, you still have your popularity and me," Sam said.

"I'm a lucky girl," Brooke smiled.

"Yes you are," Nicole said as she approached Brooke with Mary Cherry by her side. "If I were these people I would've been putting up posters."

Sam rolled her eyes. "That's because you have no life."

"I have more of a life then you. Freak," Nicole said.

"Shut up Nicole," Carmen said as she, Harrison, and Lily approached them.

"Brooke, are we gonna hafta start hangin' with the less fortunate now?" Mary Cherry asked.

"Less fortunate?" Lily said. "Psssh."

"You don't have to hang out with anybody you don't want to hang with," Brooke said.

"Thank God," Mary Cherry said.

"Let's head to class," Harrison said.

George and Josh approached Carmen and Lily when the two girls exited the Novak.

"Hey," Josh said. "Do you guys have a minute?"

"Sure," Lily said. "What's up?"

"Well, Josh and I were wondering if you guys would like to go out with us," George said.

"Like on a date?" Carmen asked.

"Yeah," Josh said. "Me and Lily. George and you. What do you say?"

"Well, um," Carmen was having trouble forming words.

"I know I just got out of a relationship but I like you Carmen," George said. "Maybe we can just be friends and after awhile start dating."

"Yeah, I like you too Lily," Josh said. "This isn't a rebound thing."

"I'll get back to you," Lily said.

"What she said," Carmen said.

"Okay, take your time," George said.

After the two boys left Carmen turned to Lily. "We just got asked out by two hotties."

"But what about Brooke and Sam?" Lily asked.

"We should ask for approval," Carmen said.

Sam was standing at Brooke's locker waiting for her girlfriend to choose which picture of them to put in her locker. "Just put them both up."

"There's not enough room," Brooke said. "Just pick one."

"I like them both," Sam said. Sam saw Lily and Carmen headed her way and smiled. "Hey guys."

"Hi," Carmen said. "What are you guys doing?"

Brooke held up two pictures for Lily and Carmen to see. "Which one?"

The two brunettes both pointed at the same picture.

"Thank you. See how easy that was? Brooke asked Sam.

Sam stuck her tongue out at her girlfriend.

"We have a question to ask," Lily said.

"Josh asked Lily out and George asked me out," Carmen said. "Is it okay with you guys if-"

"Go for it," Brooke smiled.

"If they like you and you like them you should date," Sam said.

"Really?" Lily asked.

"Totally," Brooke said.

"Thanks," Carmen smiled.

Lily and Carmen went to go find Josh and George.

"This is great," Brooke said. "Now everyone's happy."

"Are you sure about that?" Sam asked.

Brooke nodded. "I'm extremely happy."

-the end-