Tyranny of the Urgent: Chapter Twenty: Toss Their Heart in the Air
So I'm leaving to go to a wedding and my Internet connection may be spotty for the next while. I'm not sure if I'll get to post on Sunday, but hopefully earlier posting of this one will somewhat make up for that! :)
Title:Tyranny of the Urgent
By Jesterlady
PG-13
Pairing: Eventual LoVe
Disclaimer: I own nothing. Actual quotes are from www.twiztv.com. The fic title comes from a quote from my teacher. The chapter titles come from: a local play, John Keats, Barbara Brown Taylor, Henri Nouwen, BBT, HN, John Bunyan, James Houston, JK, Lancelot Andrews, a hymnwriter, John Calvin, Firefly, CS Lewis, JH, JH, HN, JH, Edmund Gosse, BBT, Eugene Peterson, CSL, and C.L Plantinga.
Warnings/Summary: Spoilers for all of VM S2. How to solve the bus crash my way. Veronica's thoughts are italicized.
Comments: Yes, please
Chapter Twenty:
“Hey. Have you ever been stalked?”
Well, Gia, every time I turn around you’re there. Does that count?
“Because someone's stalking me. I was hoping you might have some tips or something.”
“Dancing around in your underwear with the curtains open is always good. And if you're in chat rooms, and they suggest meeting face to face, do it in an abandoned railroad car down by the river side.”
“No! No, no, I mean for catching the guy. I keep seeing this car following me around.” Veronica sighed and got up to grab something from the copier.
“Can you describe it?”
“It's totally nondescript. I mean that's what's so unique about it. Is there any way that you could do some P.I. thing?” Veronica paused and looked Gia up and down.
“For you? The daughter of the most powerful man in town? That's a marker I want. Come to my house after school.”
Gia nodded and squeezed Veronica’s arm in thanks before leaving. Veronica shook her head and continued her work. She really didn’t need anything else on her plate at the moment. It was bad enough she had to go to the doctor later.
***
“Veronica?” Keith called as he entered his old office. She popped her head up from under the desk.
“And does the Sheriff need something from us lowly private investigators?” she inquired while sorting the papers she’d pulled from the drawer.
“Just to know how your doctor’s appointment went.” Veronica screwed up her face.
“Great. I’m in tip top shape.”
“I’ve brought you something else then.” Keith laid down some photocopies on the desk.
“And who is this charming fellow?” She picked one up and studied it.
“The charming fellow who hired the escort to steal Cliff's briefcase.”
“And his heart. Poor Cliff.”
“Yeah. She must have been something. Cause he won't shut up about it.” Veronica didn’t bother to suppress her grin.
“Send a copy to everyone on the business contact sheet. See if anyone can find him.”
“So, this is not a matter for the police?”
“Nope, just the lowly private investigators.”
“I see. I’ll put it on your bill.”
Keith just rounded the desk and kissed her forehead before heading back to the station.
“Hey, Dad!” she called after him. He turned around. “Did you see the paper?”
“No, why?”
“Take a look. It’s a doozy.”
Keith read out loud.
“ ‘Incorporation will not swing.’ Lovely headline. ‘Neptune voted against incorporation. This swing in the ballots may have been due to discovery of Mayor Goodman’s alleged affair and cover up with one of his campaign staffers who he dropped unconscious at Neptune Memorial yesterday morning. The woman, Jennifer Stansfield is not available for comment. Mayor Goodman has released a public apology to his voters. In the meantime, all of Neptune must deal with this decision.’ ”
“Guess they’re stuck with us,” Veronica said with a smile.
“What’s a yacht without barnacles?” Keith queried, also smiling. “I’ll see you later, honey.”
***
“What is that?” Logan asked jauntily as he slid in across the table from Veronica.
“Just some work stuff for my dad.”
“I thought we were the big private detective now?”
“My dad hired me, though since he still technically owns the business, he hired us.” Veronica glanced up in exasperation and noticed his intense stare.
“What?”
“Nothing. That just looks like the guy my dad shared a cell with.”
Veronica’s mouth dropped open.
“Logan! This is the guy who stole Cliff’s briefcase with all the information about your trial in it.”
Logan slowly turned to face her.
“So my dad is trying to what? Reframe me?”
“I don’t pretend to understand him. Maybe he thought there was something in there that could, I don’t even know.”
“He just never stops,” Logan whispered in disbelief. Veronica wanted to pat his back or squeeze his hand or something, but she didn’t dare.
“Don’t feel awkward or anything,” he said, correctly interpreting her expression. “Didn’t we already have one of those conversations earlier today?”
“Yeah, it is kinda creepy that you know the name of my perfume.”
“But I can’t tell when you want to be strapped down on an anthill, so you’re good.”
“True dat. So, what brought you over here all cozy like anyway?”
“You heard about the prom being canceled?”
“Wasn’t that your fault?”
“Don’t taunt the bearer of gifts.” Logan pulled out an invitation and presented it to her with a flourish.
“Wow, you and your drunk 09er buddies get the prom cancelled, and then use your inherited wealth to throw a private prom.”
“When you say it like that it sounds unjust.”
“How does it sound when you say it?”
“Mm, glamorous.” She looked skeptical and he waited a moment before casually asking, “So...are you coming?”
“I was going to console Jane and Wallace that night. You got their prom cancelled, remember?”
“Well, bring them along. Bring whoever. You know we with our inherited wealth don’t mind… long as you bathe and keep your hands off the silver.”
“I’ll consider it.” She gathered up her things and went to her next class. Logan watched her go.
“Good,” he whispered. He’d realized earlier that day when she talked about not seeing each other anymore since high school was over that it was something he didn’t want to think about. Alterna-prom was one of the only things he could think of to keep that day from coming.
***
So, the disgruntled, slightly lunatic, ex-Army night janitor is stalking Gia. So, I tell my dad and he arrests the guy right before he sticks Gia and me like we were Iraqis. I need to find out about this guy. Logan’s already told me everything he knows. Who’s been at this school for a long time?
“Weevil, wait up.” Weevil sighed and waited for Veronica to catch up to him.
“Do I need to start recording my every move so you don’t gotta run and grill me on my whereabouts? I’m worried about you breaking something.”
“Are you going to be doing the breaking?”
“Depends.”
“Listen, I’m sorry about before. I meant what I said, though.”
“Like I didn’t know that.”
“Forget it.” Veronica wasn’t prepared to talk to sullen Weevil today. Weevil hesitated but blurted out,
“V, you were right.”
“Well, there’s something you don’t hear every day from motorcycle gang leaders.”
“Ex gang leader. I want out.”
“Out out?” Veronica grinned.
“As far out that won’t make me wear a suit every day.”
“What brought on this change?”
“I’ve been thinking about what you said. My life’s been twisted till now. But I want to graduate, make my gran happy and do something with my life that won’t land me in jail.” Not what she’d been expecting, but Veronica would take this bit of news any day.
“I’m glad, Weevil.”
“So, got any ideas?”
“Wanna do some private investigating?”
“What’s that mean?”
“Well, no suit, but nice shirt. No leather.”
“I can hardly wait.”
“I’m running around like crazy and I want to find out about Tommy Dominic, or Lucky, the night janitor here. If you know anything about him or can find out something, that would be great. I’ll make sure you get a percentage.”
“Sure thing.” Weevil smiled. The idea of private investigation was quite thrilling actually and he was glad Veronica had thought of it.
“I’m not putting your name on the card just yet,” she warned teasingly as she walked away backwards. “Gotta prove yourself.”
“Prepare to be amazed!” he called after her.
***
“What luck?” Veronica asked as she entered the station dressed in her prom regalia.
“Wow, honey. You look amazing!”
“Thanks.” Veronica submitted to her dad’s hug. “Now what about Lucky?”
“He’s not talking. He just babbles on about Woody Goodman and how he’s not that great.”
“Well, that’s specific for you.”
“I agree. But you go on to your party. I might be late tonight because I wanna see if I can crack him.”
“Just give him the old Mars charm. He’ll sing for ya.”
“I’m counting on it, baby!”
Veronica waved goodbye and headed to a party that she was certain was going to be very awkward. Not only was it hosted by her ex boyfriend, but she was going stag and her friends all had dates, one of them was planning her murder, and she still had a lot of work to do.
Plus, she had to ride in the elevator with Dick and Madison.
While Dick, I might add, tries desperately to get his ex back in the sack. I mean, Mac told me he was broken up about it, but this is not the way to go about seducing a tramp.
“Madison. Flying solo? Ditto. Just me and the party pig.” Veronica suppressed a smile as they exited the elevator and Dick tried again. “Senior year's almost over. In a month, we might never see each other again. Never. Think about how long that is. That's like forever, but worse.”
“I'm not going to sleep with you.”
“We could fool around in the bathroom. Old times' sake? Never: it's a long time, Madison.”
Madison started to walk faster to get away. Dick followed her and Veronica caught a hint of desperation in his voice that betokened more than a need to get laid. She found it interesting, un-Dick like, and stored it away under general and unusual, but not useful, information.
Entering the hotel room was like putting herself in a room full of tigers. She wasn’t sure which one was going to maul her first. Mac certainly looked like she wanted to. She and Butters were dancing and doing it pretty badly too. Veronica felt slightly ashamed and congratulated herself on that much. She wandered over to get herself a drink and then found Wallace and Jane.
“Do I need to tell you two to get a room?”
“Maybe later,” Wallace said. “Right now we’re making senior memories, baby.”
“Did you just call me, baby?”
“Try not to dwell on it.”
“Did you come alone, Veronica?” Jane asked.
“Alone, that’s me.” Veronica shrugged.
“Maybe you’ll meet someone here tonight.”
“Hmm, that’s exactly how I want to spend my prom, making out with some loser in my ex’s
bedroom.”
“It would make an impression,” Wallace assured her.
“I’m not out to make impressions, but thanks for the tip.”
“Tip giver, that’s me.” Wallace turned to Jane. “What’s a prom without dancing? You up for it?”
“I surely am,” she answered. “We’ll see you, Veronica.”
“Have fun, kids.” Veronica was left alone in a way she’d been throughout most of her high school experience. She wondered what she was doing here.
“Hey, galpal,” Meg said in her ear.
“Hey, you made it.”
Duncan and Meg joined her in her corner.
“We had to get the baby down first.”
“Is it slightly weird being all grown up and responsible now?”
“Yes,” Duncan said immediately. Meg looked at him in mild amusement.
“It was Duncan’s diaper day,” she whispered.
“Ah, can’t wait to get my share of those,” Veronica said sarcastically.
“Veronica Mars, it won’t be that long,” Meg assured her. “I am going to find you someone perfect.”
“Even if you did, he wouldn’t have me. Besides, I’m not actually ready for any of that. In fact, marriage and family is not something I ever really care to think about.”
“Well, it’s not like we eloped or anything,” Duncan argued. “We just have a kid, is all.”
“And you’re still together. You’re gonna have to figure out things like that especially once the custody thing is settled.”
“Tonight we’re going to enjoy our prom,” Meg insisted, tugging on Duncan’s hand. “Let’s dance. I want one dance before we come back and hang with Veronica. I know she’s just glaring at everybody and driving them away.”
“I should be wounded, but the accuracy was too good.”
Meg smiled and led Duncan away, leaving Veronica in her solitude.
“Alone again.” Veronica slightly smiled at the voice she’d been expecting to hear all night.
“Naturally.”
“I, uh, I know the feeling.” Logan leaned against the wall as Veronica sat down on a table by the window. He had a champagne bottle in his hand and he’d obviously been drinking it for a while.
“You? Host of the greatest private replacement prom ever?” He raked his hand through his hair. “I'm sure you could have your pick of the bimbos. In fact you usually do.” Logan straddled the table and just stared at her. She winced. “I’m sorry. Not exactly how we’re trying to behave anymore.”
“You know, I'm surprised, Veronica. As a keen observer of the human condition, I thought you saw through people better than that.”
“What do you mean?”
“Bimbos? That's not me anymore.”
“So what are you like now?”
“You know. Tortured. Ever since I had my heart broke.” Logan could hardly believe he was saying these things to her. He knew the alcohol was breaking down his inhibitions, but it was still too much to say. He’d been thinking about this ever since, oh forever. He screwed up his courage to say what he really felt. “I thought our story was epic, you know? You and me.”
“Epic how?” Veronica was not sure how to take this. They’d been so up and down lately, so close and so far away. Where would this conversation lead? Logan took another drink before he could say anything.
“Spanning years and continents. Lives ruined, bloodshed; epic.” He paused and stared at her for a moment. His voice started to crack. “But summer's almost here. And we won't see each other at all. Then you'll leave town, then...it's over.”
“Logan...”
“I'm sorry. About last summer.” Veronica reached over and took his hand.
“We went over that already.” Logan was almost in tears and Veronica’s heart started to pound.
“I know, but if I could do it over...”
“I’d still be as stupid.” He inched toward her and she started to realize how close he was.
It was true that she’d been the one to instigate the closeness at the last dance they were at, but there he hadn’t wanted anything other than everything. She didn’t think she was ready to give that yet.
“Veronica, I-“
“Hey,” she soothed. “Come on. Ruined lives, bloodshed? You really think a relationship should be that hard?”
“No one writes songs about the ones that come easy.” He was very endearing in that moment, like a little boy with his heart in his hand. Veronica wanted nothing more than to take it, but she still couldn’t give what he wanted in return. She knew she would never be able to give it to anyone but him, but that didn’t matter much in this moment.
And he was shifting closer to her. His hand reached up and stroked her cheek. She shivered and closed her eyes. Logan breathed in her scent and could hardly believe he was this near.
He leaned in and pressed his lips to hers.
He found her willing and eager and her lips parted for him as naturally as they ever had before. It was a gentle kiss, but firm and passionate as was their wont. He felt like he was drowning in her. Her own thoughts were running along that same line and she hardly knew where reality stood.
Eventually they broke away and leaned their foreheads together.
“Why do we keep doing that?” she whispered.
“Why don’t we?” he asked in response.
“There are so many reasons,” she replied. “You know that.”
“I knew it five minutes ago, but I’m drawing a blank.”
“You’re drawing it deliberately,” she accused.
“Maybe, but at least I know what I want.”
“I really don’t. It’s late and you’re drunk and we’re surrounded by all our classmates.”
“All valid points.”
“Let’s talk about this later. Much later, when I’ve had time to think.”
“You mean cool down.”
“That too.” She nodded and started to slide off the table.
He grasped her chin and kissed her solidly before she left. She swayed a little on her way to the door. Logan watched her go.
It was true, he was drunk and he wondered how much of this he would remember in the morning. He felt like getting still more drunk. In fact, that’s exactly what he was planning on. Maybe it wasn’t his best idea ever. But he’d made an important decision tonight and it would lead to hard work for the next day. He didn’t want to have to think about it before then.
***
Mac felt extremely uncomfortable. Butters didn’t quit staring at her and even though they’d been honest with each other, she still felt like she was on a date with a neurotic mess. Not that she didn’t feel like a neurotic mess when Cassidy came into the crowded hotel suite.
She met his gaze across the room and he flinched slightly. She was glad, but she just smiled and nodded. She wasn’t going to make this weird, she refused to.
Cassidy hesitated and then crossed the room to Mac. He felt ashamed over his treatment of her, but couldn’t regret his decision. It was much too dangerous having her around. She couldn’t find out about certain things because it would ruin everything. He couldn’t trust anyone and he’d had too much experience keeping secrets to slip up now.
“Hey, Cassidy,” Mac said cheerfully. He admired her class more than anything at that moment.
“Hi.”
“I’m her date,” Butters put in immediately. Mac and Cassidy had to share a silent look. It was a reflex for both of them and their eyes connected with a jolt.
“A great one, I’m sure.”
“You wanna be an awesome one and get me a drink?” Mac asked sweetly. Butters was obviously not happy about it, but left.
“You having fun?” Cassidy asked awkwardly.
“Not so much.”
“I can’t imagine why.”
“Me either.” Mac hesitated, but she wanted to know. “Are you alone?”
“Yeah,” he said quietly. “Not really a whole crowd of awesome girls just hanging around, you know.”
“I guess.” Mac’s heart grew lighter. “I’m surprised you came. I figured since you were still mad at Logan…”
“I am. But I’m trying to deal.”
“That’s good, I guess.”
“Good in the sense that maybe it’s just weird and I, uh, I don’t know if fences can ever be mended.”
“Fences can always be mended,” Mac promised him. Cassidy’s eyebrow raised slightly.
“I’m happy to hear that.”
***
Veronica could hardly believe she was on her way back to the Grand to speak to Logan about a future relationship. She almost backed out several times, but she’d thought long and hard about it and kept coming to one conclusion. She knocked on the door and stared at the refuse from last night still lying in the hall while she waited.
Logan answered the door groggily and ruefully smiled while rubbing his head.
“Hello.” He had a raging headache, but he still wanted to kiss her. He had the feeling he might be allowed to, but the reasons for that seemed a little out of his reach, so he didn’t dare.
“First, let me say that I'm sorry for running out last night like I did. I was a bit overwhelmed; I needed to collect my thoughts, think about what you said.” Logan’s eyes widened.
The words triggered what he’d been trying to remember all morning. He’d known what he wanted to do first thing when he woke up, but the only thing he could remember about why was that it had something to do with Veronica, last night and maybe a kiss, but obviously something important had happened and Veronica needed to know something first before she said anything more.
“Veronica,” he said urgently. “There’s something-“
“Look, let me just get this out. I don't want to lose you from my life either. And I'm not saying I'm ready to dive back into anything, but after graduation let's make it a point to see each other. See where that takes us. I remember what you said about our relationship being epic.”
Logan leaned his head against the door. What she said made sense, but it was only going to make matters worse.
“Last night was kind of a blur,” he admitted. “I don’t remember the specifics. I’m glad you said that, but you should just know that-“
“I’m leaving,” Kendall interrupted him and sashayed past Veronica pointedly. Veronica’s face filled with horror and she fought the pointless battle against tears that threatened to fall.
“Veronica, I-“ Logan started to say as she turned and started to walk away. The elevator doors closed on Kendall’s smirk and Veronica stood in front of them, waiting, while trying not to cry. Logan started to walk after her. “Veronica, I was just-“
“Stop,” she said viciously, still holding back the tears. He didn’t dare say anything more. After everything they’d been doing and after what had passed between them last night, he’d still gone back to Kendall. It was the end of everything.
The doors finally opened and she got in, facing him as the doors closed.
His face was devastated and he finally unfroze enough to open his mouth and try to protest once more. She was relieved when the doors closed on whatever he had to say.
Logan cursed and tried to think of what to do. He should go after her. He wanted to explain. He slid down and sat on the floor in the middle of the hallway, holding his hung over head in his hands. He’d been so close and now…
Title:Tyranny of the Urgent
By Jesterlady
PG-13
Pairing: Eventual LoVe
Disclaimer: I own nothing. Actual quotes are from www.twiztv.com. The fic title comes from a quote from my teacher. The chapter titles come from: a local play, John Keats, Barbara Brown Taylor, Henri Nouwen, BBT, HN, John Bunyan, James Houston, JK, Lancelot Andrews, a hymnwriter, John Calvin, Firefly, CS Lewis, JH, JH, HN, JH, Edmund Gosse, BBT, Eugene Peterson, CSL, and C.L Plantinga.
Warnings/Summary: Spoilers for all of VM S2. How to solve the bus crash my way. Veronica's thoughts are italicized.
Comments: Yes, please
Chapter Twenty:
“Hey. Have you ever been stalked?”
Well, Gia, every time I turn around you’re there. Does that count?
“Because someone's stalking me. I was hoping you might have some tips or something.”
“Dancing around in your underwear with the curtains open is always good. And if you're in chat rooms, and they suggest meeting face to face, do it in an abandoned railroad car down by the river side.”
“No! No, no, I mean for catching the guy. I keep seeing this car following me around.” Veronica sighed and got up to grab something from the copier.
“Can you describe it?”
“It's totally nondescript. I mean that's what's so unique about it. Is there any way that you could do some P.I. thing?” Veronica paused and looked Gia up and down.
“For you? The daughter of the most powerful man in town? That's a marker I want. Come to my house after school.”
Gia nodded and squeezed Veronica’s arm in thanks before leaving. Veronica shook her head and continued her work. She really didn’t need anything else on her plate at the moment. It was bad enough she had to go to the doctor later.
***
“Veronica?” Keith called as he entered his old office. She popped her head up from under the desk.
“And does the Sheriff need something from us lowly private investigators?” she inquired while sorting the papers she’d pulled from the drawer.
“Just to know how your doctor’s appointment went.” Veronica screwed up her face.
“Great. I’m in tip top shape.”
“I’ve brought you something else then.” Keith laid down some photocopies on the desk.
“And who is this charming fellow?” She picked one up and studied it.
“The charming fellow who hired the escort to steal Cliff's briefcase.”
“And his heart. Poor Cliff.”
“Yeah. She must have been something. Cause he won't shut up about it.” Veronica didn’t bother to suppress her grin.
“Send a copy to everyone on the business contact sheet. See if anyone can find him.”
“So, this is not a matter for the police?”
“Nope, just the lowly private investigators.”
“I see. I’ll put it on your bill.”
Keith just rounded the desk and kissed her forehead before heading back to the station.
“Hey, Dad!” she called after him. He turned around. “Did you see the paper?”
“No, why?”
“Take a look. It’s a doozy.”
Keith read out loud.
“ ‘Incorporation will not swing.’ Lovely headline. ‘Neptune voted against incorporation. This swing in the ballots may have been due to discovery of Mayor Goodman’s alleged affair and cover up with one of his campaign staffers who he dropped unconscious at Neptune Memorial yesterday morning. The woman, Jennifer Stansfield is not available for comment. Mayor Goodman has released a public apology to his voters. In the meantime, all of Neptune must deal with this decision.’ ”
“Guess they’re stuck with us,” Veronica said with a smile.
“What’s a yacht without barnacles?” Keith queried, also smiling. “I’ll see you later, honey.”
***
“What is that?” Logan asked jauntily as he slid in across the table from Veronica.
“Just some work stuff for my dad.”
“I thought we were the big private detective now?”
“My dad hired me, though since he still technically owns the business, he hired us.” Veronica glanced up in exasperation and noticed his intense stare.
“What?”
“Nothing. That just looks like the guy my dad shared a cell with.”
Veronica’s mouth dropped open.
“Logan! This is the guy who stole Cliff’s briefcase with all the information about your trial in it.”
Logan slowly turned to face her.
“So my dad is trying to what? Reframe me?”
“I don’t pretend to understand him. Maybe he thought there was something in there that could, I don’t even know.”
“He just never stops,” Logan whispered in disbelief. Veronica wanted to pat his back or squeeze his hand or something, but she didn’t dare.
“Don’t feel awkward or anything,” he said, correctly interpreting her expression. “Didn’t we already have one of those conversations earlier today?”
“Yeah, it is kinda creepy that you know the name of my perfume.”
“But I can’t tell when you want to be strapped down on an anthill, so you’re good.”
“True dat. So, what brought you over here all cozy like anyway?”
“You heard about the prom being canceled?”
“Wasn’t that your fault?”
“Don’t taunt the bearer of gifts.” Logan pulled out an invitation and presented it to her with a flourish.
“Wow, you and your drunk 09er buddies get the prom cancelled, and then use your inherited wealth to throw a private prom.”
“When you say it like that it sounds unjust.”
“How does it sound when you say it?”
“Mm, glamorous.” She looked skeptical and he waited a moment before casually asking, “So...are you coming?”
“I was going to console Jane and Wallace that night. You got their prom cancelled, remember?”
“Well, bring them along. Bring whoever. You know we with our inherited wealth don’t mind… long as you bathe and keep your hands off the silver.”
“I’ll consider it.” She gathered up her things and went to her next class. Logan watched her go.
“Good,” he whispered. He’d realized earlier that day when she talked about not seeing each other anymore since high school was over that it was something he didn’t want to think about. Alterna-prom was one of the only things he could think of to keep that day from coming.
***
So, the disgruntled, slightly lunatic, ex-Army night janitor is stalking Gia. So, I tell my dad and he arrests the guy right before he sticks Gia and me like we were Iraqis. I need to find out about this guy. Logan’s already told me everything he knows. Who’s been at this school for a long time?
“Weevil, wait up.” Weevil sighed and waited for Veronica to catch up to him.
“Do I need to start recording my every move so you don’t gotta run and grill me on my whereabouts? I’m worried about you breaking something.”
“Are you going to be doing the breaking?”
“Depends.”
“Listen, I’m sorry about before. I meant what I said, though.”
“Like I didn’t know that.”
“Forget it.” Veronica wasn’t prepared to talk to sullen Weevil today. Weevil hesitated but blurted out,
“V, you were right.”
“Well, there’s something you don’t hear every day from motorcycle gang leaders.”
“Ex gang leader. I want out.”
“Out out?” Veronica grinned.
“As far out that won’t make me wear a suit every day.”
“What brought on this change?”
“I’ve been thinking about what you said. My life’s been twisted till now. But I want to graduate, make my gran happy and do something with my life that won’t land me in jail.” Not what she’d been expecting, but Veronica would take this bit of news any day.
“I’m glad, Weevil.”
“So, got any ideas?”
“Wanna do some private investigating?”
“What’s that mean?”
“Well, no suit, but nice shirt. No leather.”
“I can hardly wait.”
“I’m running around like crazy and I want to find out about Tommy Dominic, or Lucky, the night janitor here. If you know anything about him or can find out something, that would be great. I’ll make sure you get a percentage.”
“Sure thing.” Weevil smiled. The idea of private investigation was quite thrilling actually and he was glad Veronica had thought of it.
“I’m not putting your name on the card just yet,” she warned teasingly as she walked away backwards. “Gotta prove yourself.”
“Prepare to be amazed!” he called after her.
***
“What luck?” Veronica asked as she entered the station dressed in her prom regalia.
“Wow, honey. You look amazing!”
“Thanks.” Veronica submitted to her dad’s hug. “Now what about Lucky?”
“He’s not talking. He just babbles on about Woody Goodman and how he’s not that great.”
“Well, that’s specific for you.”
“I agree. But you go on to your party. I might be late tonight because I wanna see if I can crack him.”
“Just give him the old Mars charm. He’ll sing for ya.”
“I’m counting on it, baby!”
Veronica waved goodbye and headed to a party that she was certain was going to be very awkward. Not only was it hosted by her ex boyfriend, but she was going stag and her friends all had dates, one of them was planning her murder, and she still had a lot of work to do.
Plus, she had to ride in the elevator with Dick and Madison.
While Dick, I might add, tries desperately to get his ex back in the sack. I mean, Mac told me he was broken up about it, but this is not the way to go about seducing a tramp.
“Madison. Flying solo? Ditto. Just me and the party pig.” Veronica suppressed a smile as they exited the elevator and Dick tried again. “Senior year's almost over. In a month, we might never see each other again. Never. Think about how long that is. That's like forever, but worse.”
“I'm not going to sleep with you.”
“We could fool around in the bathroom. Old times' sake? Never: it's a long time, Madison.”
Madison started to walk faster to get away. Dick followed her and Veronica caught a hint of desperation in his voice that betokened more than a need to get laid. She found it interesting, un-Dick like, and stored it away under general and unusual, but not useful, information.
Entering the hotel room was like putting herself in a room full of tigers. She wasn’t sure which one was going to maul her first. Mac certainly looked like she wanted to. She and Butters were dancing and doing it pretty badly too. Veronica felt slightly ashamed and congratulated herself on that much. She wandered over to get herself a drink and then found Wallace and Jane.
“Do I need to tell you two to get a room?”
“Maybe later,” Wallace said. “Right now we’re making senior memories, baby.”
“Did you just call me, baby?”
“Try not to dwell on it.”
“Did you come alone, Veronica?” Jane asked.
“Alone, that’s me.” Veronica shrugged.
“Maybe you’ll meet someone here tonight.”
“Hmm, that’s exactly how I want to spend my prom, making out with some loser in my ex’s
bedroom.”
“It would make an impression,” Wallace assured her.
“I’m not out to make impressions, but thanks for the tip.”
“Tip giver, that’s me.” Wallace turned to Jane. “What’s a prom without dancing? You up for it?”
“I surely am,” she answered. “We’ll see you, Veronica.”
“Have fun, kids.” Veronica was left alone in a way she’d been throughout most of her high school experience. She wondered what she was doing here.
“Hey, galpal,” Meg said in her ear.
“Hey, you made it.”
Duncan and Meg joined her in her corner.
“We had to get the baby down first.”
“Is it slightly weird being all grown up and responsible now?”
“Yes,” Duncan said immediately. Meg looked at him in mild amusement.
“It was Duncan’s diaper day,” she whispered.
“Ah, can’t wait to get my share of those,” Veronica said sarcastically.
“Veronica Mars, it won’t be that long,” Meg assured her. “I am going to find you someone perfect.”
“Even if you did, he wouldn’t have me. Besides, I’m not actually ready for any of that. In fact, marriage and family is not something I ever really care to think about.”
“Well, it’s not like we eloped or anything,” Duncan argued. “We just have a kid, is all.”
“And you’re still together. You’re gonna have to figure out things like that especially once the custody thing is settled.”
“Tonight we’re going to enjoy our prom,” Meg insisted, tugging on Duncan’s hand. “Let’s dance. I want one dance before we come back and hang with Veronica. I know she’s just glaring at everybody and driving them away.”
“I should be wounded, but the accuracy was too good.”
Meg smiled and led Duncan away, leaving Veronica in her solitude.
“Alone again.” Veronica slightly smiled at the voice she’d been expecting to hear all night.
“Naturally.”
“I, uh, I know the feeling.” Logan leaned against the wall as Veronica sat down on a table by the window. He had a champagne bottle in his hand and he’d obviously been drinking it for a while.
“You? Host of the greatest private replacement prom ever?” He raked his hand through his hair. “I'm sure you could have your pick of the bimbos. In fact you usually do.” Logan straddled the table and just stared at her. She winced. “I’m sorry. Not exactly how we’re trying to behave anymore.”
“You know, I'm surprised, Veronica. As a keen observer of the human condition, I thought you saw through people better than that.”
“What do you mean?”
“Bimbos? That's not me anymore.”
“So what are you like now?”
“You know. Tortured. Ever since I had my heart broke.” Logan could hardly believe he was saying these things to her. He knew the alcohol was breaking down his inhibitions, but it was still too much to say. He’d been thinking about this ever since, oh forever. He screwed up his courage to say what he really felt. “I thought our story was epic, you know? You and me.”
“Epic how?” Veronica was not sure how to take this. They’d been so up and down lately, so close and so far away. Where would this conversation lead? Logan took another drink before he could say anything.
“Spanning years and continents. Lives ruined, bloodshed; epic.” He paused and stared at her for a moment. His voice started to crack. “But summer's almost here. And we won't see each other at all. Then you'll leave town, then...it's over.”
“Logan...”
“I'm sorry. About last summer.” Veronica reached over and took his hand.
“We went over that already.” Logan was almost in tears and Veronica’s heart started to pound.
“I know, but if I could do it over...”
“I’d still be as stupid.” He inched toward her and she started to realize how close he was.
It was true that she’d been the one to instigate the closeness at the last dance they were at, but there he hadn’t wanted anything other than everything. She didn’t think she was ready to give that yet.
“Veronica, I-“
“Hey,” she soothed. “Come on. Ruined lives, bloodshed? You really think a relationship should be that hard?”
“No one writes songs about the ones that come easy.” He was very endearing in that moment, like a little boy with his heart in his hand. Veronica wanted nothing more than to take it, but she still couldn’t give what he wanted in return. She knew she would never be able to give it to anyone but him, but that didn’t matter much in this moment.
And he was shifting closer to her. His hand reached up and stroked her cheek. She shivered and closed her eyes. Logan breathed in her scent and could hardly believe he was this near.
He leaned in and pressed his lips to hers.
He found her willing and eager and her lips parted for him as naturally as they ever had before. It was a gentle kiss, but firm and passionate as was their wont. He felt like he was drowning in her. Her own thoughts were running along that same line and she hardly knew where reality stood.
Eventually they broke away and leaned their foreheads together.
“Why do we keep doing that?” she whispered.
“Why don’t we?” he asked in response.
“There are so many reasons,” she replied. “You know that.”
“I knew it five minutes ago, but I’m drawing a blank.”
“You’re drawing it deliberately,” she accused.
“Maybe, but at least I know what I want.”
“I really don’t. It’s late and you’re drunk and we’re surrounded by all our classmates.”
“All valid points.”
“Let’s talk about this later. Much later, when I’ve had time to think.”
“You mean cool down.”
“That too.” She nodded and started to slide off the table.
He grasped her chin and kissed her solidly before she left. She swayed a little on her way to the door. Logan watched her go.
It was true, he was drunk and he wondered how much of this he would remember in the morning. He felt like getting still more drunk. In fact, that’s exactly what he was planning on. Maybe it wasn’t his best idea ever. But he’d made an important decision tonight and it would lead to hard work for the next day. He didn’t want to have to think about it before then.
***
Mac felt extremely uncomfortable. Butters didn’t quit staring at her and even though they’d been honest with each other, she still felt like she was on a date with a neurotic mess. Not that she didn’t feel like a neurotic mess when Cassidy came into the crowded hotel suite.
She met his gaze across the room and he flinched slightly. She was glad, but she just smiled and nodded. She wasn’t going to make this weird, she refused to.
Cassidy hesitated and then crossed the room to Mac. He felt ashamed over his treatment of her, but couldn’t regret his decision. It was much too dangerous having her around. She couldn’t find out about certain things because it would ruin everything. He couldn’t trust anyone and he’d had too much experience keeping secrets to slip up now.
“Hey, Cassidy,” Mac said cheerfully. He admired her class more than anything at that moment.
“Hi.”
“I’m her date,” Butters put in immediately. Mac and Cassidy had to share a silent look. It was a reflex for both of them and their eyes connected with a jolt.
“A great one, I’m sure.”
“You wanna be an awesome one and get me a drink?” Mac asked sweetly. Butters was obviously not happy about it, but left.
“You having fun?” Cassidy asked awkwardly.
“Not so much.”
“I can’t imagine why.”
“Me either.” Mac hesitated, but she wanted to know. “Are you alone?”
“Yeah,” he said quietly. “Not really a whole crowd of awesome girls just hanging around, you know.”
“I guess.” Mac’s heart grew lighter. “I’m surprised you came. I figured since you were still mad at Logan…”
“I am. But I’m trying to deal.”
“That’s good, I guess.”
“Good in the sense that maybe it’s just weird and I, uh, I don’t know if fences can ever be mended.”
“Fences can always be mended,” Mac promised him. Cassidy’s eyebrow raised slightly.
“I’m happy to hear that.”
***
Veronica could hardly believe she was on her way back to the Grand to speak to Logan about a future relationship. She almost backed out several times, but she’d thought long and hard about it and kept coming to one conclusion. She knocked on the door and stared at the refuse from last night still lying in the hall while she waited.
Logan answered the door groggily and ruefully smiled while rubbing his head.
“Hello.” He had a raging headache, but he still wanted to kiss her. He had the feeling he might be allowed to, but the reasons for that seemed a little out of his reach, so he didn’t dare.
“First, let me say that I'm sorry for running out last night like I did. I was a bit overwhelmed; I needed to collect my thoughts, think about what you said.” Logan’s eyes widened.
The words triggered what he’d been trying to remember all morning. He’d known what he wanted to do first thing when he woke up, but the only thing he could remember about why was that it had something to do with Veronica, last night and maybe a kiss, but obviously something important had happened and Veronica needed to know something first before she said anything more.
“Veronica,” he said urgently. “There’s something-“
“Look, let me just get this out. I don't want to lose you from my life either. And I'm not saying I'm ready to dive back into anything, but after graduation let's make it a point to see each other. See where that takes us. I remember what you said about our relationship being epic.”
Logan leaned his head against the door. What she said made sense, but it was only going to make matters worse.
“Last night was kind of a blur,” he admitted. “I don’t remember the specifics. I’m glad you said that, but you should just know that-“
“I’m leaving,” Kendall interrupted him and sashayed past Veronica pointedly. Veronica’s face filled with horror and she fought the pointless battle against tears that threatened to fall.
“Veronica, I-“ Logan started to say as she turned and started to walk away. The elevator doors closed on Kendall’s smirk and Veronica stood in front of them, waiting, while trying not to cry. Logan started to walk after her. “Veronica, I was just-“
“Stop,” she said viciously, still holding back the tears. He didn’t dare say anything more. After everything they’d been doing and after what had passed between them last night, he’d still gone back to Kendall. It was the end of everything.
The doors finally opened and she got in, facing him as the doors closed.
His face was devastated and he finally unfroze enough to open his mouth and try to protest once more. She was relieved when the doors closed on whatever he had to say.
Logan cursed and tried to think of what to do. He should go after her. He wanted to explain. He slid down and sat on the floor in the middle of the hallway, holding his hung over head in his hands. He’d been so close and now…