Almost Like a Country Song 10/? Troy/Veronica, Wallace, Logan
Fic Title: Almost Like A Country Song 10/?
Author: Brandee
Pairings: Veronica/Troy eventually, Logan/Veronica, Logan/Parker, Wallace/OC
Word Count: 5,298
Rating: PG-13
Spoilers: S3 up to Papa's Cabin, pretty much AU after that..
Summary: He played her once, will she give him a chance to play her again?
Disclaimer: Mine? Nope!!
Warnings: Eventually will be Troy/Veronica, with Logan tossed into the mix.. So yep, that's the warning.... Oh, and Piz and Veronica? Never, ever, happened. I mean never, nothing, nadda.
A/N:I suck, because let’s face it, it’s been forever and a day since I updated.. I am so totally sorry, that it’s took so long! Real life gets way to busy sometimes… Still, I am sorry!!! I must thank Katjs11 for being such a great beta! She? Is totally made of awesome!!!!! This fic will be filled with Wallace and Veronica friendship goodness, because without Wallace, would Veronica had ever been a marshmallow?
Previous Chapters
“Okay, so this one is so you,” Veronica grinned as she held a shirt out for her best friend to see.
“Do I look like Barney to you? I’m not wearing purple!” Wallace grimaced.
“It’s not purple, it’s plum,” Veronica spoke. “Have I taught you nothing about fashion?”
“Veronica Mars, fashion expert. Yeah I’m not feelin’ it,” Wallace shrugged.
Veronica and Wallace had been hanging out in the mall for over an hour as part of their BFF day. Wallace had mentioned wanting a new shirt or two for his dates with Layla, and Veronica decided to go with him. She was really trying to be more social with her friends, and even though a day at the mall wasn’t her cup of tea, so far it hadn’t been too bad.
“You insult your very best friend? See if I bring you any bake goods for awhile,” Veronica spoke with a fake huff.
“Oh, so that’s how you’re gonna play it, huh?” Wallace smirked. “You’re gonna cut me off of the Snickerdoodle?”
“That and all other tasty sweets that I bake in my kitchen,” Veronica shrugged with a wicked grin.
“I’m still not wearing purple,” Wallace sighed.
“Plum,” Veronica corrected again.
“Yeah, it’s still not working for me,” Wallace spoke firmly. “Hey, I’ve been meaning to ask you, have you talked to Logan in the past few days?”
Veronica rolled her eyes at her best friend. It had been a week since Logan had broken up with Parker. Veronica had received several calls from Logan, but so far she had dodged most of them. She had answered one phone call, just to make sure everything was okay, only to listen to Logan ramble about trying to figure out who he really was.
“He’s in the middle of some sort of self discovery,” Veronica spoke as she looked through the clothing rack.
“Well college is all about that kind of thing right?” Wallace asked. “What does all that mean for the two of you?”
“It means nothing,” Veronica spoke quickly. “I’ve talked to him once. You know just because Logan and I speak, or we’re single at the same time, doesn’t mean we’re getting back together.”
“Right, because the two of you don’t do that,” Wallace nodded with a smile. “What about Parker? Have you talked to her since the breakup? I know you said the other day she was ignoring you.”
“Well apparently I ruined Parker’s life because I dated Logan before she did. She has somehow decided that I’m the reason for their breakup and doesn’t want to talk to me,” Veronica spoke in an animated tone. “It’s all too All My Children for me, really,” she added with a sigh. “I’ll never understand why most women have to be so overdramatic and catty.”
“Right, because you have never been overdramatic or catty?” Wallace chuckled.
Veronica shot him a stern glare. “All I’m saying is that her anger is pointed in the wrong direction. I barely spoke to Logan while they were together.”
“So Logan didn’t break up with her because he still has feelings for you?” Wallace countered.
“Well he hasn’t professed his undying love to me in the last week, so I’m thinking, no,” Veronica spoke, crossing her arms. “I told you, he’s trying to figure out who he is or something. So, have you decided what you’re doing this summer?”
Wallace nodded his head. “Is that your not so subtle way of telling me we’re done talking about Logan?”
“You catch on fast. Seriously, the summer?” she asked again as they walked away from the rack of clothes.
“I’ll be hanging out with my girlfriend and best friend in Neptune?” Wallace spoke. “That is if they plan to stay in Neptune.”
“Girlfriend?” Veronica grinned. She looked over at Wallace with sparkling eyes. “I can’t believe it. My little Wallace has found a girl to call his own,” she joked.
“Okay, that’s just not cool, Mars,” Wallace frowned. “I’ve had girlfriends before you know,” he mumbled. “So are you going to be in town, or are you taking a vacation from this place?”
“Well, since the whole FBI internship didn’t pan out, this girl will probably be sticking around. I’m meeting with Leo today to talk about bringing him in at Mars Investigation.”
“So you’re really going to take over when your dad gets Sheriff?”
“Well someone has to bust all the cheaters in this town and I’m not going to leave it up to Vinnie VanLow. So yeah, I’m really going to take over.” Veronica shrugged. “My dad thinks with Leo working with me I should be able to handle things.”
“You just can’t have a normal job like most people our age, can you?” Wallace chuckled.
“Normal? Normal is highly overrated, my dear Wallace,” Veronica smirked.
“Right, because a normal girl wouldn’t work with one ex and hang out with the two other ex boyfriends that are still in town,” Wallace spoke, shaking his head.
“I don’t hang out with Troy or Logan,” Veronica grumbled. “I associate with them, big difference.”
“Girl, you’ve been hanging out with Troy since we ran into him at the movies. Like it or not, you more than associate with him. You’re in serious contact with both him and Logan, and let’s face it, if Duncan was still in town you’d probably be babysitting for him. If you weren’t dating him,” Wallace spoke confidently.
“I liked you better when we didn’t talk in depth about our personal lives,” Veronica muttered.
“Hey, you’re the one that wanted to improve your people skills,” Wallace laughed as they headed out of the store.
“Perhaps I should have thought this plan through more,” Veronica smiled.
“I don’t know, I kind of like this attempt at a new you,” Wallace shrugged. “You’re asking for far less favors, and seem almost interested in what’s going on in my life.”
“Wow, Wallace, that’s deep,” Veronica smirked.
“Yeah, which is why I’ll probably never do it again. Look at you, Mars, turning me all sensitive male.”
“Does that mean you’ll reconsider buying the plum shirt?” Veronica grinned, her eyes twinkling as she spoke.
“Not a chance,” Wallace laughed. “But seriously, nice try.”
~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Logan knocked on Veronica’s front door and sighed to himself as he waited to see if she would answer. In the past week he had done a lot of soul searching and surprisingly, most of it had been done while sober. He still had a lot of things to figure out about himself, but one thing he did know was that he needed to talk to Veronica.
Her front door swung open, startling him as his eyes went down to the tiny blonde staring up at him. Her hair was in a messy ponytail, and she was wearing a simple black t-shirt with her jeans. Gone was the carefree girl he met so many years ago, and in her place was a more complicated Veronica.
“So, if I said I was in the neighborhood….”
“I’d ask you if someone stole your Range Rover on the way over,” Veronica spoke bluntly, as she looked past him at the bright blue Xterra in her drive. “Your car in the shop?”
Logan smiled brightly. “I decided I’m not a Range Rover person,” he explained. “Apparently, I’m still an Xterra person.”
“But you’re the one that bought the Range Rover,” Veronica spoke, staring up at him confused.
“You liked it, and I was rather tired of all the yellow jokes associated with the Xterra. Today while I was car shopping I kept thinking about my old Xterra, though, and I don’t know. I saw that one and just had to have it,” Logan shrugged.
“And you brought it by to show it off?” Veronica questioned.
“No, I came by to talk to you.”
He watched as she took in a deep breath and lowered her eyes. When she looked up at him her eyes were searching his, and he knew she wanted to avoid talking about them.
“Logan…”
“Relax, Veronica. I don’t want to talk about your feelings and emotions.”
“Oh. Well in that case, come on in,” she spoke with a forced smile.
He walked into the apartment and watched as she shut the door behind her. “Actually, I came by to talk about my feelings and emotions,” he joked with a half grin.
“Well, I’m no therapist, but I do believe we decided long ago that your issues started early in life,” Veronica spoke with a tight smile.
“Right, I seem to remember that conversation,” Logan nodded. “Seriously though, Veronica, I’ve been thinking a lot about everything that happened with Parker.”
“You can spare me the details, Logan,” Veronica spoke quickly. “Your relationship with Parker had nothing to do with me.”
Logan shook his head and smiled. For a smart girl Veronica could be so naïve at times. “Actually, in a lot of ways you’re wrong. Look, you might want to sit down for this, but I just want you to know that I’m sorry.”
Her eyes widened and he could see her had caught her off guard. He watched as her mouth opened to speak and then she shut it again. Finally she let out a tiny sigh. “You’re going to have to be a little more specific.”
“My dating Parker, it was a mistake. She was one of your friends, and I shouldn’t have dated her so soon after our breakup. Wait, let me backup. I shouldn’t have dated her at all. It made things even more awkward for us, and for that I’m really sorry.”
“And you didn’t think about that before my friendship with her was potentially ruined?” Veronica spoke, glaring up at him.
“What?” Logan questioned. “Wait, what’s going on with you and Parker?”
“It’s nothing,” Veronica spoke. “She’s just hurt right now and apparently I’m an easy target.”
“She’s blaming you for the breakup?” Logan questioned. “How is that even possible?”
“Look, don’t worry about it. It will work itself out.”
“Yeah, well from now on, your friends are off limits,” Logan promised.
“Mac’s going to be heartbroken,” Veronica quipped. “But seriously, you didn’t think that dating one of my two female friends might just suck for me a little?”
“You told me it was okay…”
“You didn’t give me much choice,” Veronica admitted with a frown.
“No, I guess I didn’t,” Logan sighed. “Still, if you had just told me I honestly wouldn’t have dated her.”
“Right, because I’m all about sharing my feelings. Have you met me, Logan?”
Logan nodded his head. “Of course. What was I thinking,” he spoke dryly.
“When Duncan dated Meg, that was kind of weird. But this, it just felt….” Veronica’s voice trailed off as she looked away from Logan. “But hey, I dated both you and your best friend. So who am I to talk, right?”
“Yeah, you did do that,” Logan smirked. “Still, it was a long time ago and very different. This time, it was all on me,” he frowned.
“Look, for what it’s worth we’ve both made mistakes,” Veronica muttered, looking down at her feet.
Logan let out a tiny gasp. “I’m sorry, can you say that again? Veronica Mars, taking part of the blame? This could be too much to handle for one day,” he added with a smirk.
“I’m saying we are both responsible for everything that has happened,” she shrugged. Logan stared at her, his eyes wide, causing her to narrow her eyes and glance up at him with an annoyed glare. “Don’t look at me like that. I’m trying to grow as a person.”
“Well kudos to whoever brought about this change,” Logan spoke, clapping his hands together. “Does this mean we might start seeing a kinder, gentler Veronica Mars?”
Veronica chuckled. “I doubt it. I mean seriously, how boring would that be?”
“Does it mean we can at least go back to being friends?” Logan questioned hopefully.
“I thought we had already decided to be friends,” Veronica spoke.
“Yes, but now that I’m not dating your friend I was thinking we could be friends without the awkward silence. We could even hang out from time to time. You know, like normal friends do,” Logan suggested.
“I’m sorry, my BFF card is totally full right now. But if you want, I could put you on the waiting list,” Veronica grinned.
“The sarcasm hurts me deeply,” Logan replied dryly. “It does however feel like old times again. Remind me again, why did I miss this?”
“Because we have a warped sense of normal?” Veronica shrugged.
“That sounds right,” Logan nodded with a tiny smile.
As he looked at Veronica, he saw a familiar sparkle in her eyes. It seemed like they were finally okay, or at least as okay as they were going to be considering their history. They had been through so much and felt so many different feelings toward each other. It was going to be strange to try the friend thing again, he thought to himself. Still, it was what they needed right now, because Logan knew he didn’t want to be in a relationship with anyone for awhile. Not until he sorted a lot of things out.
“So, this new you that you’re trying to discover, what does he have planned for the summer?” Veronica asked, staring up at him as she crossed her arms against her chest.
“I’m not really sure right now. Dick and I have talked about a few surfing trips, but other than that who knows where I’ll end up.” Logan shrugged. “What about you? Have you heard anything about your internship?”
Veronica lowered her head. “I’m not exactly what they are looking for, apparently. It’s okay though, plans change. My summer will just be a bit more relaxing.”
“Yeah? Well it’s their loss,” Logan smiled sincerely. “You’re good at what you do, Veronica.”
Veronica looked up at him. “I’m not giving up on the FBI. I just didn’t get the internship,” she spoke with a determined tone.
“Well, I still think you should have gotten the internship,” Logan offered. “Anyway, I should go, but we really need to try that whole normal friends hanging out thing soon,” he smiled.
He watched as Veronica nodded her head with uncertainty. He knew it was hard for her, trusting him again in any capacity, but he thought that maybe, just maybe, she was trying this time.
“We’ll do lattes and a movie,” she joked as she walked over to the door with him. “It’ll be a blast,” she spoke just as her cell phone sang out in the background.
“You might want to take that,” Logan smiled. “I’m sure it’s some important client wanting to know who his wife has been with this week.”
“I so love my job,” Veronica spoke, clapping her hands with a fake giggle.
He let out a snicker, and shook his head. “I’ll talk to you later, Veronica,” he spoke, watching as she lifted her hand and gave him a tiny wave. It wasn’t much, but it was progress, he thought to himself as he walked to his Xterra. And when it came to Veronica, any progress at all was a good thing.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
“This shot? Pure perfection!” Veronica gleamed as she stared at the photos in front of her. Weevil stood behind her, looking over her shoulder wearing a tiny grin. Once again, he had gotten the right shots to prove that another man in Neptune was a cheating dog.
“It’s all about timing.” Weevil smirked. “These two, they were tricky,” he went on. “It took a little time but I got my shot.”
“And we will be getting a nice big bonus once I give the bitter wife the name of her husband’s mistress,” Veronica smiled.
“Don’t forget you own me dinner,” Weevil laughed. “I told you it was the wife’s yoga instructor, but you were sold on the best friend.”
Veronica smirked. “Weevil, if you want to have dinner with me, all you have to do is ask. I mean I know I’m hard to resist….”
“Yeah, you got me, V. My ever wakin’ thought is how I’m gonna make you love me,” Weevil chuckled. “For real though. Fou lost the bet, and you will pay up.”
“It was a total fluke,” Veronica groaned. “You worked the case more…”
“And you can’t even admit that I just got it right this time,” Weevil spoke, crossing his arms.
“Fine,” Veronica nodded. “You have good instincts, and this time, you figured things out before I did. It won’t happen often though, so don’t get smug.”
“Because smug only looks good on you?” Weevil asked with a grin.
“I’m not smug, I’m confident,” Veronica smiled. “Seriously though, total props on the shots.”
“Just doing what I was told,” Weevil nodded.
“So, when do you want that dinner?” Veronica asked. “I suppose I have to make good on the bet…”
“Well, tonight’s out. I've got a date with this girl I met at the college….” Weevil grinned.
“How rich is she?” Veronica smirked.
“Her mother is a nurse and her father owns a small deli,” Weevil spoke. “This one isn’t rich, V, so leave it alone.”
“Her dad owns a deli?” Veronica asked with a smile. “What’s her name?”
“Jessica. Jessica Mayes,” Weevil shrugged. “Why, you think you know her?”
“Yeah, I know who she is,” Veronica nodded. “Nice girl, and your right, her dad isn’t rich. Her step-father on the other hand, he’s loaded,” Veronica smirked.
“And you know this how?” Weevil challenged.
“Mayes Deli. Duncan used to get these amazing sandwiches there. He loved to go in and talk to Jessica’s father. He’s a really nice guy. Anyway, Jessica’s mom left him for some doctor, I think he’s a surgeon or something? I just know that he has money, lots of it,” Veronica spoke.
“That doesn’t mean I have a type…” Weevil grumbled.
“”Of course not, it just means you can refrain from making any more comments about me and my rich boyfriends,” Veronica smirked.
“That mean your back with one of those rich guys?” Weevil questioned. “Which one suckered you in this time, V?”
Veronica rolled her eyes at the comment. “No one has suckered me into anything,” she replied. “I’m doing the whole friend thing with my ex’s now. I’m totally maturing as a person,” she added with enthusiasm.
“Yeah? How long is that gonna last?” Weevil questioned. “C’mon, V, you know it won’t be long till you’re back datin’ one of them again.”
“Not true,” Veronica denied. “I’m not looking for a relationship right now.”
“It’s your life,” Weevil shrugged. “Anyway, I’ve gotta get out of here. You got any plans for tonight?”
“Yeah, a nice relaxing night at home with my cases,” Veronica smiled.
“In other words, you have no plans.”
“None at all,” Veronica admitted with a sigh.
Weevil was about to speak with the door to Mars Investigation flew open. Veronica looked up to see Troy’s friend Eric, standing in the doorway.
“You need something, kid?” Weevil questioned.
“Yeah, I need to talk to her,” he spoke, pointing over at Veronica.
“I got this,” Veronica said to Weevil. “You may go primp for your date now,” she added with a smile.
Weevil let out a grunt and shook his head. “I’ll see you tomorrow, V,” he spoke as he walked past Eric and out the door.
“I’ve been expecting you,” Veronica spoke, turning her attention back to Eric.
“You have?” the boy asked, walking over to Veronica’s desk.
“Yes I have,” Veronica nodded. “I’m working on your case, remember?”
Eric nodded his head. “Yeah, that’s why I’m here. I’ve been thinking about this whole sister thing,” he spoke with a sigh. “It’s weird, you know? Our dad apparently sucks, but she’s out there, right?”
“Yeah,” Veronica nodded. “She’s out there.”
“And, it’s like, what if she’s a loser like him? I mean, that would make this whole thing kinda feel pointless or whatever,” he rambled.
Veronica sat up in her chair. “Did you make a decision or not?” she asked.
“Yeah, yeah,” Eric nodded. “I want to find my sister. I need to finish this, because she might not be bad news, and even if she is, I just need to know. So yeah, that’s why I’m here.”
“Are you sure you want to find her?” Veronica asked looking over at the boy. “I mean, really sure?”
“Yes, I’m totally sure.”
Veronica smiled slightly at the boy and pulled her computer to her. “You want to see her Myspace or her Facebook?” She asked with a tiny grin.
Eric’s eyes widened. “Wait, you’ve already found her? But you didn’t know that I wanted you to.”
“Sure I did,’ Veronica shrugged. “It was only a matter of time, so I did the work ahead of time,” she smiled. “Just so you know, she has a blog on her Myspace, that talks about the day she found out she has a little brother,” she explained. “She knew that you didn’t know about her. Apparently she has a grandmother who told her. She’s an only child, so it was big news for her. Anyway, she’s a student at UCLA. Looks like your luck is finally looking up.”
“Do you think she’ll want to meet me?” Eric asked as he walked over to look at the computer.
“That’s our next step,” Veronica spoke.
“Troy was right,” Eric smiled happily. “You seriously rock!”
“Yes,” Veronica smirked, “Yes, I do.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Layla stood in front of her mirror staring at herself intently. “I don’t know, what do you think? Too much cleavage?” she spoke, turning to look at her cousin.
Troy rolled his eyes. “It is so wrong that you’re asking me that question.”
“T! I’m having dinner with Wallace’s mom tonight! I need to look presentable,” Layla pouted.
“You always look presentable. In fact, you’re the most presentable person I know,” her cousin spoke with a tiny smile.
“Troy, I’m serious!”
“So am I. Besides, you’ve already met Wallace’s mom and she loved you!”
“Yeah, but this is different. This is a dinner at her house. Wallace is close to him mom, so I kinda want her to like me!”
“So this thing with the two of you, it’s kind of serious, huh?” Troy asked, watching as Layla walked back over to her closet.
“Well, yeah, I guess. I don’t know,” she laughed. “It’s all still new, but I really like him, you know? I mean, he’s just a really amazing guy,” she gushed.
“He’s also the first guy you’ve been serious about since….” Troy’s voice trailed off as Layla turned quickly and stared over at him, her mouth falling into a frown.
“You mean since Hunter died?” Layla spoke. “Okay T, what’s on your mind?”
Troy frowned. “I guess I’m just wondering if you’re ready for this,” he spoke honestly. “Look, we both know Hunter wasn’t just some random boyfriend. You loved him, and the two of you were serious. Getting into a relationship, it’s a big deal.”
Layla frowned as she walked over to her bed and sat down. “I did love Hunter, but I’ve had time. I’ve grieved, I’ve dealt with everything that happened, and I’m okay,” she spoke, looking up at her cousin. “It’s not like I haven’t dated other guys since Hunter’s death. I just never connected with them.”
“Well, I guess I should apologize for questioning your judgment. You obviously know what you’re doing,” Troy smiled.
“I’m dating a really good guy,” Layla nodded. “That’s all I’m doing T. I’m just taking my time and seeing where this goes.”
“Sounds like a plan,” Troy smiled. “It’s good to see you like this, with everything going right for once,” he added. “Happy looks good on you.”
“Hey, things are going to work out for you too, T,” Layla promised.
“Things are working out for me,” Troy spoke with a faint smile. “I haven’t screwed up in awhile. That in itself is progress.”
“Yeah, and people are starting to notice that,” Layla spoke. “Just hang in there okay? People are coming around.”
“People?” Troy questioned.
“Veronica,” Layla nodded. “Wallace sees you’ve changed, and I totally think Veronica is seeing it too.”
“Yeah? You’re more confident then I am,” Troy sighed crossing his arms. “You know it’s funny, last year when I saw her I didn’t really give it much thought. I mean yeah, she saved me big time, but I didn’t really think about ever wanting a shot with her again. This time though…”
“You want more than friendship,” Layla stated, staring up at him.
“In a perfect world, yeah, but this is Veronica Mars we’re talking about,” Troy laughed slightly. “I really messed up the first time around. I mean, the girl was so jaded back then, and she was just starting to try to trust people. She actually opened up to me, and I didn’t care. I just let her down like everyone else.”
“You were a stupid kid back then, T. Veronica’s going to see that,” Layla shrugged.
“Yeah? You don’t know her.”
“Not really no, but I know you.”
“Are you going to give me the ‘if anyone can change her mind you can’ speech?” Troy questioned. “Because again I say, you don’t know Veronica.”
“Just give it time, T. She’s already hanging out with you! Wallace says that’s huge progress for Veronica.”
“See, that’s what I love about you ,Layla. You always see the brighter side of things. Sadly, when it comes to Veronica rarely is there a brighter side. As much as I’d like to believe that we’ll be all sunshine and flowers soon, I know that really, the task could actually be impossible.”
“Nothing is impossible, T. Now go and let me get ready before I start sounding like some sort of life coach,” Layla smiled.
“Hey, I could totally use one of those,” Troy chuckled. “Good luck tonight, Layla, Wallace’s mother is going to love you!”
“Of course she will,” Layla laughed nervously. “I’m a Vandegraff.”
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Veronica walked into Java the Hut and looked around. She was tired, and ready to go home and curl up with Backup and just call it a night. First, however she was going to treat her sweet tooth to a slice of cake and a vanilla latte.
Her eyes caught a glimpse of a hand waving at her, and she frowned when she realized it was Troy Vandegraff. With a sigh she walked over to the corner booth he was sitting in and smiled gently.
“Hot date tonight, Troy?” She questioned.
“Yeah, and she just got here,” he grinned. “Have a seat, Veronica.”
“I’ll stand thanks,” Veronica spoke.
“Suit yourself, but I’ve got to tell you, these seats are pretty comfortable,” Troy smiled.
Veronica stared at Troy from a moment before deciding to slide in the seat in front of him. She knew it was a stupid decision, but Troy wasn’t nearly as annoying to her as he once was, so maybe she wouldn’t regret talking to him later. “I talked to your buddy Eric tonight,” she spoke, clasping her hands together on the table.
“Yeah, I know! He called me and filled me in. You are officially Eric’s hero,” he laughed.
“Well, we still have to wait and here back from the sister,” Veronica spoke cautiously.
“But you think she’s on the up and up?” Troy asked.
Veronica nodded her head. “Yeah. She just seems like a regular college student. You know, if the kid is going to meet this girl, maybe it’s time he told his parents.”
“Yeah, I mentioned that to him, but he says they’ll freak out,” Troy frowned.
“And when they find out what you’ve helped him to do, what do you think they’ll do to you?” Veronica asked. “For whatever insane reason, they trusted you to be some sort of good influence on the kid, and you’ve helped him go behind their backs.”
“They are going to kill me, like seriously dead,” Troy groaned. “I know this already, Veronica, and I’ve told it all to Eric. He’s just so close to finding his sister, he can’t walk away now.”
“Well, I should hear something back from the sister soon. I just hope you’re ready for the fall out when his parents find out,” Veronica sighed.
“You know, Veronica, for someone who couldn't care less about me, you sure seem worried about this whole thing,” Troy smiled. “Is it possible that you’re actually starting to see me as a friend?”
And crap, suddenly Troy was smiling at her with a smile that once made her feel down right giddy, she thought to herself as she looked away from him. She hated memories of before, because none of that had been real. This guy in front of her, he was supposedly new, the real Troy. Yet at the same time, he was still that guy, the one that had broken her trust and hurt her pride.
“Friends? Seriously, us?” Veronica laughed it off quietly. “I was merely pointing out the facts as I saw them.”
“You were concerned about my well being!” Troy argued with a laugh of his own. “You were, Veronica, you actually seemed like you cared,” he added, his tone softer. “It’s just cool, you know? That’s all I’m saying.”
“Yeah, well I need to go,” Veronica spoke as she stood. “I just came by to get a caffeine fix. I have things to do.”
“You’re going to work on a Friday night, aren’t you?” Troy asked with a knowing smile.
Veronica let out a huff. “I enjoy my work. Is that really such a bad thing?”
“Of course not,” Troy shrugged. “Sometimes, however, you need to take time to smell the flowers, breathe the fresh air, or you know, enjoy a good cup of java with a friend,” he said with a tiny smirk.
“I’ll have my java to go, thanks,” Veronica said quickly.
“It’s just an innocent cup of coffee with a friend, Veronica,” Troy tried again. “Look, you’re already here, what’s the harm in it? It’s better than being at home alone on a Friday night. C’mon, keep me company. I’ll be on my best behavior, I promise.”
It annoyed her how endearing Troy could be at times. There had been a time when she believed it was all part of his game, but lately she was really starting to wonder. Still, it didn’t mean she was ready to forget everything he had done.
“There you go again, tossing around that friend word. It’s like you’ve heard nothing I’ve said,” she spoke, adding a tiny smile at the end.
“I think you’re scared to hang out with me,” Troy said as he leaned in slightly. “I mean, if you spend too much time with me, you might actually realize that I’m an alright guy,” he continued. “Would it really be that horrible for you, Veronica? Having to admit, that maybe, just maybe, you were wrong about me?” Troy ended with a gentle smile.
His voice was almost teasing, but Veronica couldn’t hold back an eye roll. “Where exactly do you come up with this stuff? I mean seriously, do you even hear yourself?”
“Prove me wrong then,” Troy smiled looking up to wave a waitress over. “What’s your drink of choice?”
Veronica sat back in her seat and crossed her arms against her chest as the waitress looked down at her with a kind smile. “I’ll have an iced vanilla latte and a slice of chocolate cream cake,” she spoke, shooting a glare toward a smiling Troy. One meal with Troy Vandegraff wasn’t going to kill her, but maybe it would help her decide once and for all what his game really was.
Author: Brandee
Pairings: Veronica/Troy eventually, Logan/Veronica, Logan/Parker, Wallace/OC
Word Count: 5,298
Rating: PG-13
Spoilers: S3 up to Papa's Cabin, pretty much AU after that..
Summary: He played her once, will she give him a chance to play her again?
Disclaimer: Mine? Nope!!
Warnings: Eventually will be Troy/Veronica, with Logan tossed into the mix.. So yep, that's the warning.... Oh, and Piz and Veronica? Never, ever, happened. I mean never, nothing, nadda.
A/N:I suck, because let’s face it, it’s been forever and a day since I updated.. I am so totally sorry, that it’s took so long! Real life gets way to busy sometimes… Still, I am sorry!!! I must thank Katjs11 for being such a great beta! She? Is totally made of awesome!!!!! This fic will be filled with Wallace and Veronica friendship goodness, because without Wallace, would Veronica had ever been a marshmallow?
Previous Chapters
“Okay, so this one is so you,” Veronica grinned as she held a shirt out for her best friend to see.
“Do I look like Barney to you? I’m not wearing purple!” Wallace grimaced.
“It’s not purple, it’s plum,” Veronica spoke. “Have I taught you nothing about fashion?”
“Veronica Mars, fashion expert. Yeah I’m not feelin’ it,” Wallace shrugged.
Veronica and Wallace had been hanging out in the mall for over an hour as part of their BFF day. Wallace had mentioned wanting a new shirt or two for his dates with Layla, and Veronica decided to go with him. She was really trying to be more social with her friends, and even though a day at the mall wasn’t her cup of tea, so far it hadn’t been too bad.
“You insult your very best friend? See if I bring you any bake goods for awhile,” Veronica spoke with a fake huff.
“Oh, so that’s how you’re gonna play it, huh?” Wallace smirked. “You’re gonna cut me off of the Snickerdoodle?”
“That and all other tasty sweets that I bake in my kitchen,” Veronica shrugged with a wicked grin.
“I’m still not wearing purple,” Wallace sighed.
“Plum,” Veronica corrected again.
“Yeah, it’s still not working for me,” Wallace spoke firmly. “Hey, I’ve been meaning to ask you, have you talked to Logan in the past few days?”
Veronica rolled her eyes at her best friend. It had been a week since Logan had broken up with Parker. Veronica had received several calls from Logan, but so far she had dodged most of them. She had answered one phone call, just to make sure everything was okay, only to listen to Logan ramble about trying to figure out who he really was.
“He’s in the middle of some sort of self discovery,” Veronica spoke as she looked through the clothing rack.
“Well college is all about that kind of thing right?” Wallace asked. “What does all that mean for the two of you?”
“It means nothing,” Veronica spoke quickly. “I’ve talked to him once. You know just because Logan and I speak, or we’re single at the same time, doesn’t mean we’re getting back together.”
“Right, because the two of you don’t do that,” Wallace nodded with a smile. “What about Parker? Have you talked to her since the breakup? I know you said the other day she was ignoring you.”
“Well apparently I ruined Parker’s life because I dated Logan before she did. She has somehow decided that I’m the reason for their breakup and doesn’t want to talk to me,” Veronica spoke in an animated tone. “It’s all too All My Children for me, really,” she added with a sigh. “I’ll never understand why most women have to be so overdramatic and catty.”
“Right, because you have never been overdramatic or catty?” Wallace chuckled.
Veronica shot him a stern glare. “All I’m saying is that her anger is pointed in the wrong direction. I barely spoke to Logan while they were together.”
“So Logan didn’t break up with her because he still has feelings for you?” Wallace countered.
“Well he hasn’t professed his undying love to me in the last week, so I’m thinking, no,” Veronica spoke, crossing her arms. “I told you, he’s trying to figure out who he is or something. So, have you decided what you’re doing this summer?”
Wallace nodded his head. “Is that your not so subtle way of telling me we’re done talking about Logan?”
“You catch on fast. Seriously, the summer?” she asked again as they walked away from the rack of clothes.
“I’ll be hanging out with my girlfriend and best friend in Neptune?” Wallace spoke. “That is if they plan to stay in Neptune.”
“Girlfriend?” Veronica grinned. She looked over at Wallace with sparkling eyes. “I can’t believe it. My little Wallace has found a girl to call his own,” she joked.
“Okay, that’s just not cool, Mars,” Wallace frowned. “I’ve had girlfriends before you know,” he mumbled. “So are you going to be in town, or are you taking a vacation from this place?”
“Well, since the whole FBI internship didn’t pan out, this girl will probably be sticking around. I’m meeting with Leo today to talk about bringing him in at Mars Investigation.”
“So you’re really going to take over when your dad gets Sheriff?”
“Well someone has to bust all the cheaters in this town and I’m not going to leave it up to Vinnie VanLow. So yeah, I’m really going to take over.” Veronica shrugged. “My dad thinks with Leo working with me I should be able to handle things.”
“You just can’t have a normal job like most people our age, can you?” Wallace chuckled.
“Normal? Normal is highly overrated, my dear Wallace,” Veronica smirked.
“Right, because a normal girl wouldn’t work with one ex and hang out with the two other ex boyfriends that are still in town,” Wallace spoke, shaking his head.
“I don’t hang out with Troy or Logan,” Veronica grumbled. “I associate with them, big difference.”
“Girl, you’ve been hanging out with Troy since we ran into him at the movies. Like it or not, you more than associate with him. You’re in serious contact with both him and Logan, and let’s face it, if Duncan was still in town you’d probably be babysitting for him. If you weren’t dating him,” Wallace spoke confidently.
“I liked you better when we didn’t talk in depth about our personal lives,” Veronica muttered.
“Hey, you’re the one that wanted to improve your people skills,” Wallace laughed as they headed out of the store.
“Perhaps I should have thought this plan through more,” Veronica smiled.
“I don’t know, I kind of like this attempt at a new you,” Wallace shrugged. “You’re asking for far less favors, and seem almost interested in what’s going on in my life.”
“Wow, Wallace, that’s deep,” Veronica smirked.
“Yeah, which is why I’ll probably never do it again. Look at you, Mars, turning me all sensitive male.”
“Does that mean you’ll reconsider buying the plum shirt?” Veronica grinned, her eyes twinkling as she spoke.
“Not a chance,” Wallace laughed. “But seriously, nice try.”
~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Logan knocked on Veronica’s front door and sighed to himself as he waited to see if she would answer. In the past week he had done a lot of soul searching and surprisingly, most of it had been done while sober. He still had a lot of things to figure out about himself, but one thing he did know was that he needed to talk to Veronica.
Her front door swung open, startling him as his eyes went down to the tiny blonde staring up at him. Her hair was in a messy ponytail, and she was wearing a simple black t-shirt with her jeans. Gone was the carefree girl he met so many years ago, and in her place was a more complicated Veronica.
“So, if I said I was in the neighborhood….”
“I’d ask you if someone stole your Range Rover on the way over,” Veronica spoke bluntly, as she looked past him at the bright blue Xterra in her drive. “Your car in the shop?”
Logan smiled brightly. “I decided I’m not a Range Rover person,” he explained. “Apparently, I’m still an Xterra person.”
“But you’re the one that bought the Range Rover,” Veronica spoke, staring up at him confused.
“You liked it, and I was rather tired of all the yellow jokes associated with the Xterra. Today while I was car shopping I kept thinking about my old Xterra, though, and I don’t know. I saw that one and just had to have it,” Logan shrugged.
“And you brought it by to show it off?” Veronica questioned.
“No, I came by to talk to you.”
He watched as she took in a deep breath and lowered her eyes. When she looked up at him her eyes were searching his, and he knew she wanted to avoid talking about them.
“Logan…”
“Relax, Veronica. I don’t want to talk about your feelings and emotions.”
“Oh. Well in that case, come on in,” she spoke with a forced smile.
He walked into the apartment and watched as she shut the door behind her. “Actually, I came by to talk about my feelings and emotions,” he joked with a half grin.
“Well, I’m no therapist, but I do believe we decided long ago that your issues started early in life,” Veronica spoke with a tight smile.
“Right, I seem to remember that conversation,” Logan nodded. “Seriously though, Veronica, I’ve been thinking a lot about everything that happened with Parker.”
“You can spare me the details, Logan,” Veronica spoke quickly. “Your relationship with Parker had nothing to do with me.”
Logan shook his head and smiled. For a smart girl Veronica could be so naïve at times. “Actually, in a lot of ways you’re wrong. Look, you might want to sit down for this, but I just want you to know that I’m sorry.”
Her eyes widened and he could see her had caught her off guard. He watched as her mouth opened to speak and then she shut it again. Finally she let out a tiny sigh. “You’re going to have to be a little more specific.”
“My dating Parker, it was a mistake. She was one of your friends, and I shouldn’t have dated her so soon after our breakup. Wait, let me backup. I shouldn’t have dated her at all. It made things even more awkward for us, and for that I’m really sorry.”
“And you didn’t think about that before my friendship with her was potentially ruined?” Veronica spoke, glaring up at him.
“What?” Logan questioned. “Wait, what’s going on with you and Parker?”
“It’s nothing,” Veronica spoke. “She’s just hurt right now and apparently I’m an easy target.”
“She’s blaming you for the breakup?” Logan questioned. “How is that even possible?”
“Look, don’t worry about it. It will work itself out.”
“Yeah, well from now on, your friends are off limits,” Logan promised.
“Mac’s going to be heartbroken,” Veronica quipped. “But seriously, you didn’t think that dating one of my two female friends might just suck for me a little?”
“You told me it was okay…”
“You didn’t give me much choice,” Veronica admitted with a frown.
“No, I guess I didn’t,” Logan sighed. “Still, if you had just told me I honestly wouldn’t have dated her.”
“Right, because I’m all about sharing my feelings. Have you met me, Logan?”
Logan nodded his head. “Of course. What was I thinking,” he spoke dryly.
“When Duncan dated Meg, that was kind of weird. But this, it just felt….” Veronica’s voice trailed off as she looked away from Logan. “But hey, I dated both you and your best friend. So who am I to talk, right?”
“Yeah, you did do that,” Logan smirked. “Still, it was a long time ago and very different. This time, it was all on me,” he frowned.
“Look, for what it’s worth we’ve both made mistakes,” Veronica muttered, looking down at her feet.
Logan let out a tiny gasp. “I’m sorry, can you say that again? Veronica Mars, taking part of the blame? This could be too much to handle for one day,” he added with a smirk.
“I’m saying we are both responsible for everything that has happened,” she shrugged. Logan stared at her, his eyes wide, causing her to narrow her eyes and glance up at him with an annoyed glare. “Don’t look at me like that. I’m trying to grow as a person.”
“Well kudos to whoever brought about this change,” Logan spoke, clapping his hands together. “Does this mean we might start seeing a kinder, gentler Veronica Mars?”
Veronica chuckled. “I doubt it. I mean seriously, how boring would that be?”
“Does it mean we can at least go back to being friends?” Logan questioned hopefully.
“I thought we had already decided to be friends,” Veronica spoke.
“Yes, but now that I’m not dating your friend I was thinking we could be friends without the awkward silence. We could even hang out from time to time. You know, like normal friends do,” Logan suggested.
“I’m sorry, my BFF card is totally full right now. But if you want, I could put you on the waiting list,” Veronica grinned.
“The sarcasm hurts me deeply,” Logan replied dryly. “It does however feel like old times again. Remind me again, why did I miss this?”
“Because we have a warped sense of normal?” Veronica shrugged.
“That sounds right,” Logan nodded with a tiny smile.
As he looked at Veronica, he saw a familiar sparkle in her eyes. It seemed like they were finally okay, or at least as okay as they were going to be considering their history. They had been through so much and felt so many different feelings toward each other. It was going to be strange to try the friend thing again, he thought to himself. Still, it was what they needed right now, because Logan knew he didn’t want to be in a relationship with anyone for awhile. Not until he sorted a lot of things out.
“So, this new you that you’re trying to discover, what does he have planned for the summer?” Veronica asked, staring up at him as she crossed her arms against her chest.
“I’m not really sure right now. Dick and I have talked about a few surfing trips, but other than that who knows where I’ll end up.” Logan shrugged. “What about you? Have you heard anything about your internship?”
Veronica lowered her head. “I’m not exactly what they are looking for, apparently. It’s okay though, plans change. My summer will just be a bit more relaxing.”
“Yeah? Well it’s their loss,” Logan smiled sincerely. “You’re good at what you do, Veronica.”
Veronica looked up at him. “I’m not giving up on the FBI. I just didn’t get the internship,” she spoke with a determined tone.
“Well, I still think you should have gotten the internship,” Logan offered. “Anyway, I should go, but we really need to try that whole normal friends hanging out thing soon,” he smiled.
He watched as Veronica nodded her head with uncertainty. He knew it was hard for her, trusting him again in any capacity, but he thought that maybe, just maybe, she was trying this time.
“We’ll do lattes and a movie,” she joked as she walked over to the door with him. “It’ll be a blast,” she spoke just as her cell phone sang out in the background.
“You might want to take that,” Logan smiled. “I’m sure it’s some important client wanting to know who his wife has been with this week.”
“I so love my job,” Veronica spoke, clapping her hands with a fake giggle.
He let out a snicker, and shook his head. “I’ll talk to you later, Veronica,” he spoke, watching as she lifted her hand and gave him a tiny wave. It wasn’t much, but it was progress, he thought to himself as he walked to his Xterra. And when it came to Veronica, any progress at all was a good thing.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
“This shot? Pure perfection!” Veronica gleamed as she stared at the photos in front of her. Weevil stood behind her, looking over her shoulder wearing a tiny grin. Once again, he had gotten the right shots to prove that another man in Neptune was a cheating dog.
“It’s all about timing.” Weevil smirked. “These two, they were tricky,” he went on. “It took a little time but I got my shot.”
“And we will be getting a nice big bonus once I give the bitter wife the name of her husband’s mistress,” Veronica smiled.
“Don’t forget you own me dinner,” Weevil laughed. “I told you it was the wife’s yoga instructor, but you were sold on the best friend.”
Veronica smirked. “Weevil, if you want to have dinner with me, all you have to do is ask. I mean I know I’m hard to resist….”
“Yeah, you got me, V. My ever wakin’ thought is how I’m gonna make you love me,” Weevil chuckled. “For real though. Fou lost the bet, and you will pay up.”
“It was a total fluke,” Veronica groaned. “You worked the case more…”
“And you can’t even admit that I just got it right this time,” Weevil spoke, crossing his arms.
“Fine,” Veronica nodded. “You have good instincts, and this time, you figured things out before I did. It won’t happen often though, so don’t get smug.”
“Because smug only looks good on you?” Weevil asked with a grin.
“I’m not smug, I’m confident,” Veronica smiled. “Seriously though, total props on the shots.”
“Just doing what I was told,” Weevil nodded.
“So, when do you want that dinner?” Veronica asked. “I suppose I have to make good on the bet…”
“Well, tonight’s out. I've got a date with this girl I met at the college….” Weevil grinned.
“How rich is she?” Veronica smirked.
“Her mother is a nurse and her father owns a small deli,” Weevil spoke. “This one isn’t rich, V, so leave it alone.”
“Her dad owns a deli?” Veronica asked with a smile. “What’s her name?”
“Jessica. Jessica Mayes,” Weevil shrugged. “Why, you think you know her?”
“Yeah, I know who she is,” Veronica nodded. “Nice girl, and your right, her dad isn’t rich. Her step-father on the other hand, he’s loaded,” Veronica smirked.
“And you know this how?” Weevil challenged.
“Mayes Deli. Duncan used to get these amazing sandwiches there. He loved to go in and talk to Jessica’s father. He’s a really nice guy. Anyway, Jessica’s mom left him for some doctor, I think he’s a surgeon or something? I just know that he has money, lots of it,” Veronica spoke.
“That doesn’t mean I have a type…” Weevil grumbled.
“”Of course not, it just means you can refrain from making any more comments about me and my rich boyfriends,” Veronica smirked.
“That mean your back with one of those rich guys?” Weevil questioned. “Which one suckered you in this time, V?”
Veronica rolled her eyes at the comment. “No one has suckered me into anything,” she replied. “I’m doing the whole friend thing with my ex’s now. I’m totally maturing as a person,” she added with enthusiasm.
“Yeah? How long is that gonna last?” Weevil questioned. “C’mon, V, you know it won’t be long till you’re back datin’ one of them again.”
“Not true,” Veronica denied. “I’m not looking for a relationship right now.”
“It’s your life,” Weevil shrugged. “Anyway, I’ve gotta get out of here. You got any plans for tonight?”
“Yeah, a nice relaxing night at home with my cases,” Veronica smiled.
“In other words, you have no plans.”
“None at all,” Veronica admitted with a sigh.
Weevil was about to speak with the door to Mars Investigation flew open. Veronica looked up to see Troy’s friend Eric, standing in the doorway.
“You need something, kid?” Weevil questioned.
“Yeah, I need to talk to her,” he spoke, pointing over at Veronica.
“I got this,” Veronica said to Weevil. “You may go primp for your date now,” she added with a smile.
Weevil let out a grunt and shook his head. “I’ll see you tomorrow, V,” he spoke as he walked past Eric and out the door.
“I’ve been expecting you,” Veronica spoke, turning her attention back to Eric.
“You have?” the boy asked, walking over to Veronica’s desk.
“Yes I have,” Veronica nodded. “I’m working on your case, remember?”
Eric nodded his head. “Yeah, that’s why I’m here. I’ve been thinking about this whole sister thing,” he spoke with a sigh. “It’s weird, you know? Our dad apparently sucks, but she’s out there, right?”
“Yeah,” Veronica nodded. “She’s out there.”
“And, it’s like, what if she’s a loser like him? I mean, that would make this whole thing kinda feel pointless or whatever,” he rambled.
Veronica sat up in her chair. “Did you make a decision or not?” she asked.
“Yeah, yeah,” Eric nodded. “I want to find my sister. I need to finish this, because she might not be bad news, and even if she is, I just need to know. So yeah, that’s why I’m here.”
“Are you sure you want to find her?” Veronica asked looking over at the boy. “I mean, really sure?”
“Yes, I’m totally sure.”
Veronica smiled slightly at the boy and pulled her computer to her. “You want to see her Myspace or her Facebook?” She asked with a tiny grin.
Eric’s eyes widened. “Wait, you’ve already found her? But you didn’t know that I wanted you to.”
“Sure I did,’ Veronica shrugged. “It was only a matter of time, so I did the work ahead of time,” she smiled. “Just so you know, she has a blog on her Myspace, that talks about the day she found out she has a little brother,” she explained. “She knew that you didn’t know about her. Apparently she has a grandmother who told her. She’s an only child, so it was big news for her. Anyway, she’s a student at UCLA. Looks like your luck is finally looking up.”
“Do you think she’ll want to meet me?” Eric asked as he walked over to look at the computer.
“That’s our next step,” Veronica spoke.
“Troy was right,” Eric smiled happily. “You seriously rock!”
“Yes,” Veronica smirked, “Yes, I do.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Layla stood in front of her mirror staring at herself intently. “I don’t know, what do you think? Too much cleavage?” she spoke, turning to look at her cousin.
Troy rolled his eyes. “It is so wrong that you’re asking me that question.”
“T! I’m having dinner with Wallace’s mom tonight! I need to look presentable,” Layla pouted.
“You always look presentable. In fact, you’re the most presentable person I know,” her cousin spoke with a tiny smile.
“Troy, I’m serious!”
“So am I. Besides, you’ve already met Wallace’s mom and she loved you!”
“Yeah, but this is different. This is a dinner at her house. Wallace is close to him mom, so I kinda want her to like me!”
“So this thing with the two of you, it’s kind of serious, huh?” Troy asked, watching as Layla walked back over to her closet.
“Well, yeah, I guess. I don’t know,” she laughed. “It’s all still new, but I really like him, you know? I mean, he’s just a really amazing guy,” she gushed.
“He’s also the first guy you’ve been serious about since….” Troy’s voice trailed off as Layla turned quickly and stared over at him, her mouth falling into a frown.
“You mean since Hunter died?” Layla spoke. “Okay T, what’s on your mind?”
Troy frowned. “I guess I’m just wondering if you’re ready for this,” he spoke honestly. “Look, we both know Hunter wasn’t just some random boyfriend. You loved him, and the two of you were serious. Getting into a relationship, it’s a big deal.”
Layla frowned as she walked over to her bed and sat down. “I did love Hunter, but I’ve had time. I’ve grieved, I’ve dealt with everything that happened, and I’m okay,” she spoke, looking up at her cousin. “It’s not like I haven’t dated other guys since Hunter’s death. I just never connected with them.”
“Well, I guess I should apologize for questioning your judgment. You obviously know what you’re doing,” Troy smiled.
“I’m dating a really good guy,” Layla nodded. “That’s all I’m doing T. I’m just taking my time and seeing where this goes.”
“Sounds like a plan,” Troy smiled. “It’s good to see you like this, with everything going right for once,” he added. “Happy looks good on you.”
“Hey, things are going to work out for you too, T,” Layla promised.
“Things are working out for me,” Troy spoke with a faint smile. “I haven’t screwed up in awhile. That in itself is progress.”
“Yeah, and people are starting to notice that,” Layla spoke. “Just hang in there okay? People are coming around.”
“People?” Troy questioned.
“Veronica,” Layla nodded. “Wallace sees you’ve changed, and I totally think Veronica is seeing it too.”
“Yeah? You’re more confident then I am,” Troy sighed crossing his arms. “You know it’s funny, last year when I saw her I didn’t really give it much thought. I mean yeah, she saved me big time, but I didn’t really think about ever wanting a shot with her again. This time though…”
“You want more than friendship,” Layla stated, staring up at him.
“In a perfect world, yeah, but this is Veronica Mars we’re talking about,” Troy laughed slightly. “I really messed up the first time around. I mean, the girl was so jaded back then, and she was just starting to try to trust people. She actually opened up to me, and I didn’t care. I just let her down like everyone else.”
“You were a stupid kid back then, T. Veronica’s going to see that,” Layla shrugged.
“Yeah? You don’t know her.”
“Not really no, but I know you.”
“Are you going to give me the ‘if anyone can change her mind you can’ speech?” Troy questioned. “Because again I say, you don’t know Veronica.”
“Just give it time, T. She’s already hanging out with you! Wallace says that’s huge progress for Veronica.”
“See, that’s what I love about you ,Layla. You always see the brighter side of things. Sadly, when it comes to Veronica rarely is there a brighter side. As much as I’d like to believe that we’ll be all sunshine and flowers soon, I know that really, the task could actually be impossible.”
“Nothing is impossible, T. Now go and let me get ready before I start sounding like some sort of life coach,” Layla smiled.
“Hey, I could totally use one of those,” Troy chuckled. “Good luck tonight, Layla, Wallace’s mother is going to love you!”
“Of course she will,” Layla laughed nervously. “I’m a Vandegraff.”
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Veronica walked into Java the Hut and looked around. She was tired, and ready to go home and curl up with Backup and just call it a night. First, however she was going to treat her sweet tooth to a slice of cake and a vanilla latte.
Her eyes caught a glimpse of a hand waving at her, and she frowned when she realized it was Troy Vandegraff. With a sigh she walked over to the corner booth he was sitting in and smiled gently.
“Hot date tonight, Troy?” She questioned.
“Yeah, and she just got here,” he grinned. “Have a seat, Veronica.”
“I’ll stand thanks,” Veronica spoke.
“Suit yourself, but I’ve got to tell you, these seats are pretty comfortable,” Troy smiled.
Veronica stared at Troy from a moment before deciding to slide in the seat in front of him. She knew it was a stupid decision, but Troy wasn’t nearly as annoying to her as he once was, so maybe she wouldn’t regret talking to him later. “I talked to your buddy Eric tonight,” she spoke, clasping her hands together on the table.
“Yeah, I know! He called me and filled me in. You are officially Eric’s hero,” he laughed.
“Well, we still have to wait and here back from the sister,” Veronica spoke cautiously.
“But you think she’s on the up and up?” Troy asked.
Veronica nodded her head. “Yeah. She just seems like a regular college student. You know, if the kid is going to meet this girl, maybe it’s time he told his parents.”
“Yeah, I mentioned that to him, but he says they’ll freak out,” Troy frowned.
“And when they find out what you’ve helped him to do, what do you think they’ll do to you?” Veronica asked. “For whatever insane reason, they trusted you to be some sort of good influence on the kid, and you’ve helped him go behind their backs.”
“They are going to kill me, like seriously dead,” Troy groaned. “I know this already, Veronica, and I’ve told it all to Eric. He’s just so close to finding his sister, he can’t walk away now.”
“Well, I should hear something back from the sister soon. I just hope you’re ready for the fall out when his parents find out,” Veronica sighed.
“You know, Veronica, for someone who couldn't care less about me, you sure seem worried about this whole thing,” Troy smiled. “Is it possible that you’re actually starting to see me as a friend?”
And crap, suddenly Troy was smiling at her with a smile that once made her feel down right giddy, she thought to herself as she looked away from him. She hated memories of before, because none of that had been real. This guy in front of her, he was supposedly new, the real Troy. Yet at the same time, he was still that guy, the one that had broken her trust and hurt her pride.
“Friends? Seriously, us?” Veronica laughed it off quietly. “I was merely pointing out the facts as I saw them.”
“You were concerned about my well being!” Troy argued with a laugh of his own. “You were, Veronica, you actually seemed like you cared,” he added, his tone softer. “It’s just cool, you know? That’s all I’m saying.”
“Yeah, well I need to go,” Veronica spoke as she stood. “I just came by to get a caffeine fix. I have things to do.”
“You’re going to work on a Friday night, aren’t you?” Troy asked with a knowing smile.
Veronica let out a huff. “I enjoy my work. Is that really such a bad thing?”
“Of course not,” Troy shrugged. “Sometimes, however, you need to take time to smell the flowers, breathe the fresh air, or you know, enjoy a good cup of java with a friend,” he said with a tiny smirk.
“I’ll have my java to go, thanks,” Veronica said quickly.
“It’s just an innocent cup of coffee with a friend, Veronica,” Troy tried again. “Look, you’re already here, what’s the harm in it? It’s better than being at home alone on a Friday night. C’mon, keep me company. I’ll be on my best behavior, I promise.”
It annoyed her how endearing Troy could be at times. There had been a time when she believed it was all part of his game, but lately she was really starting to wonder. Still, it didn’t mean she was ready to forget everything he had done.
“There you go again, tossing around that friend word. It’s like you’ve heard nothing I’ve said,” she spoke, adding a tiny smile at the end.
“I think you’re scared to hang out with me,” Troy said as he leaned in slightly. “I mean, if you spend too much time with me, you might actually realize that I’m an alright guy,” he continued. “Would it really be that horrible for you, Veronica? Having to admit, that maybe, just maybe, you were wrong about me?” Troy ended with a gentle smile.
His voice was almost teasing, but Veronica couldn’t hold back an eye roll. “Where exactly do you come up with this stuff? I mean seriously, do you even hear yourself?”
“Prove me wrong then,” Troy smiled looking up to wave a waitress over. “What’s your drink of choice?”
Veronica sat back in her seat and crossed her arms against her chest as the waitress looked down at her with a kind smile. “I’ll have an iced vanilla latte and a slice of chocolate cream cake,” she spoke, shooting a glare toward a smiling Troy. One meal with Troy Vandegraff wasn’t going to kill her, but maybe it would help her decide once and for all what his game really was.