Carrying On
Title: Carrying On
Author: Snuffybaby
Disclaimer: RT owns the VM universe.
Rating: PG
Pairing: LoVe
Word Count: 8.959
Spoilers: Season 1; Ruskie Business (115), Betty and Veronica (116), A Trip to the Dentist (121)
Summary: Alternate ending to Ruskie Business.
Author's Note: I just typed this up, so sorry if there are a lot of typos. Watching repeats, I found out that I got the name of Number 13 from Pan wrong... I changed it.
--
“I can’t escape Tom Cruise,” Veronica sighed as she went to follow after Leo and Logan.
“Who the hell are you?” Logan asked Leo curiously once he was cornered by a wall. His attention veered when he noticed Veronica. “Ronnie!”
She looked at him worriedly. “Logan, give me your keys.”
“Now why would I want to do that?” Logan asked, giggly. “I want to stay and party like it’s 1999.”
“Logan-”
“Who the hell are you?” Logan asked again.
“This is Deputy Dimatto. The friendly neighborhood officer that is going to overlook you underage public drunkenness.” She looked at Leo pleadingly.
The deputy nodded imperceptibly.
Veronica reached out for Logan, just to have him turn into the wall, pulling away from her. “Come on, I’ll drive you home.”
“No,” he protested. “No!”
“Logan,” she studied his attire, “you don’t have your keys on you, do you?” She glanced away from him. “What am I thinking? You’re in your underwear, of course you don’t have your keys.” Holding out her hand, “Come on, I’ll drive you home.”
Leo was surprised when Logan took it, obediently following her. He rolled his eyes when Logan asked, “Who the hell is that?”
She smirked. “For the second time, he’s Deputy Leo.”
Logan frowned, “Did you just tell me his sign?”
“That’s his name.”
“Short for Leonardo?” he asked with flair.
“You know? I don’t know.” She looked behind her at the deputy. “Well?”
He smirked, “Just Leo.”
They reached the parking lot and easily spotted Logan’s car parked crookedly by the curb. Testing the doors, Veronica found them unlocked. Spotting the keys in the ignition, she grabbed them before moving Logan around to the passenger side. Locking him in, she smiled at Leo, “Thanks.”
“You want me to follow you? Drive you back?” Leo offered.
“No, it’s okay. I think I’m gonna stay with him. He’s having a rough time dealing with his mom’s death.” She waved, “Thanks a lot.” She climbed into the driver’s seat to find Logan had slumped against the window. “Logan?”
“Hm?”
“Just checking.” She started the car and shifted into drive.
--
Pulling into the Echolls’ driveway, she threw the car into park and turned off the engine. Hiding the keys before she did anything else, Veronica reached over and brushed her hand down his arm. “Logan? You’re home.”
He grunted, but didn’t move.
She couldn’t just go around and open the door since Logan was slumped against it. He’d fall right out. Reaching over him, she grabbed the release to lower the chair back down to an inclined position. She managed to maneuver Logan into a more comfortable lying position.
Shifting her own seat down, she turned to face him, watching him sleep.
They were like that for almost an hour before Logan woke up. “Where are we?”
“In your car,” she answered calmly.
“Why?”
“Sadly, I can’t carry someone twice my weight.”
Logan studied her. She was lying across from him with her head resting on her bent arm. “How long was I asleep?”
“Almost an hour.”
“You didn’t have to stay.”
“And leave you unprotected?” she mocked, “I could never.”
“You expect to protect me?” he looked at her skeptically.
She sparked her taser to demonstrate.
He blinked. “You carry that with you everywhere?”
“No,” she said slowly. “But tonight we were meeting Meg’s secret admirer. He could have been a thug.”
“Was he?”
“Not unless you think Duncan’s a thug.”
“Am I drunk or did I hear you say Duncan?” he gapped in disbelief.
“Both, actually.”
“Duncan and Meg?” he repeated. “Why didn’t I see it? It was so obvious.”
“How do you mean?” she asked curiously.
“She’s you… or as close to you as you used to be.” He frowned, confusing himself. Rethinking his statement, he tried again, “She’s as close to you that you used to be that Duncan’s ever going to find.” His eyebrows furrowed as he thought over that statement.
She stopped him before he could attempt it again. “I get it.”
He nodded, proud of his drunken logic.
“You don’t think I’m me?” she asked him softly.
“Of course, you’re you. You’re just not the you of two years ago… or even one year ago. You’ve changed. Lost that shiny white sheen you used to carry.”
“Maybe I shouldn’t talk to you drunk.” Veronica smiled, not understanding what he was saying.
“I’m not that drunk… at least not anymore,” he grumbled. “And what I meant is that after everything you’ve gone through, you’ve changed. You’re not the innocent little Veronica that only saw the good in people and was nice to everyone.”
“So you’re saying I’m mean now?”
“I’m saying that you’re less accepting… trusting… which isn’t necessarily a bad thing.”
She was silent, waiting for him to continue.
“You’ve developed a nice judgment of character,” he continued, “something that helps you choose your friends wisely… something that helps you set your expectations of people. I’m sure if you’d met me when I was twelve you would’ve known to stay away.”
“You’re not a bad person, Logan.”
“Can you honestly say that after everything I’ve done to you?”
She decided to rephrase her statement. “You weren’t a bad person… after Lilly died, everybody changed.”
“And by everybody you mean you, Duncan and me.”
“Well, yeah, everybody that mattered. You and I got meaner.”
“And Duncan became a robot.”
“Yeah.”
“Do you think we’ll ever be normal again?”
“What’s normal?” she asked rhetorically, but to answer his question, she said, “I think we’re all starting to live again. It’s like we’ve all reached our extremes and are slowly settling back into ourselves. Duncan’s no longer robot boy.”
“You’ve settled back into your social status.”
“Come again.”
He smirked, “I haven’t come yet.”
She slapped his shoulder lightly, rolling her eyes.
“But seriously. You’ve always been a floater - you’re not quite an 09er, but they accept you and you’re not quite plain old everybody else, so they respect you.”
“And here I thought you meant that I was always a pariah, but just didn’t know it.”
“You’re special, Veronica Mars. You always have been and you always will be.”
Silence fell over the SUV.
“Come on,” Veronica sat up. “Since you’re awake, let’s get you inside. I don’t want you passing out on me again.”
Logan groaned when she opened the passenger side door. Sliding his legs out first, his body remained slumped over the seat until she slipped under his arm, wrapping her arms around his waist, trying to hoist him up.
She laughed thinking of the ridiculous sight they made with Logan’s taller frame slumped over her. “Logan, I just need you to get yourself up to your room. Then you can sleep the night away.”
Grunting his acknowledgement, they managed to make it up to his room with a lot of stumbling and some minor bumping and thudding. Luckily, they didn’t draw anyone’s attention and they were now safely tucked into Logan’s room.
The second Logan hit his bed, he was out like a light. Knowing nothing would wake him, Veronica quietly began to remove her 1980s Madonna attire.
--
“What are you doing?”
Veronica, who had been raiding Logan’s closet, didn’t miss a beat by his unexpected question. “Finding something to wear.”
He groaned, turning his head to look her way. It took a while to register that she was standing in only a towel, tiny rivulets of water dripping from her wet hair. “Huh?”
“I had to borrow your shower to get the can of hairspray out of my hair. Now I need clothes because I’m not getting back into that bustier.” She finally pulled out a blue button up shirt and said with satisfaction, “This will do.”
Logan watched with one eye open as she disappeared into the bathroom. When she came out again, she was toweling her hair dry, the shirt falling to her knees. “You didn’t have to stay.”
“I know.” She sat down on at the foot of the bed. “I didn’t want to leave you alone.”
He was about to make a snarky remark when he realized he didn’t mean it. Rolling over on to his side, he asked, “What time is it?”
“Just after one.”
“Don’t you have to go home?”
“My dad thinks I’m at Meg’s house.” She answered as she ran a comb through her hair. “So you’re stuck with me tonight, unless you want me to take your car.”
“Not a chance.”
“So how are you feeling?”
“Like a jack hammer is pounding on my brain,” he muttered, “which is a welcome relief from the clenching in my gut.”
She set down her things and crawled up the bed to lie down next to him. “Here, drink some water.” She handed him the glass that she had prepared while he was sleeping.
He grumbled, “I don’t need you to take care of me.”
“Of course you don’t, but your maids don’t come to work until seven and that’s still a couple hours away.”
“Hey, I can take care of myself.”
“Sure you can.”
“These are extenuating circumstances.” He argued, until he remembered what those extenuating circumstances were. His face fell dramatically as he curled into a ball and cried for his mother.
Without hesitating, she wrapped her arms around him, smoothing her hand down his back to calm him. She held him as he buried his face in her stomach and fell asleep in the comfort of her arms.
--
During the night, Logan had shifted in sleep so that he was sprawled across Veronica’s lower body. She had fallen asleep with her hand resting on Logan’s head.
This was how they were discovered by the maid who had come up to wake him.
“Mr. Logan, it’s time to wake up now.” Carlita knocked and called softly before entering. She was all the way in before she bothered to look up. Through experience, she knew that she would find the young man asleep on his stomach, so it took her awhile before she noticed the young woman that he was lying on top of.
Containing her shriek of surprise, she hurried out of the room, slamming the door behind her.
Veronica who had been startled awake by the maid’s entrance, laughed at her departure.
Logan was wakened by her shaking laughter. “Stop.”
“Sorry,” she smoothed her hand through his hair. “I startled your maid.”
“Carlita?” he mumbled. “It’s seven?”
“Just about.”
“We have school.” Although he stated it, he still had yet to move.
“Logan?” Veronica asked.
“Yeah.”
“Could you move your hand?”
Logan shifted his hand from her stomach to his side.
“I meant your other hand.”
He opened his eyes and blinked in confusion. It took him a minute to realize where his hand was. Grinning sheepishly, he withdrew his hand from her inner thigh, his fingers precariously close to her forbidden fruit.
“Sleep groper.”
“You know me, take advantage of every situation.”
“And I see you still do.”
Logan was trailing a hand up and down her bare leg. “That’s what happens when you wake up in bed with me.”
“Come on, get up. We still have school and you have to drive me home first because I don’t want to have to face everyone at school wearing your clothes.”
“But then we could be twins.”
“We already are,” she smirked, “except I have the good taste not to wear tighty-whities.”
“If they’re good enough for Tom Cruise…”
“Right.” She nudged his shoulder, “Well, Mr. Cruise, maybe you should hurry up and get up already.”
“Nag, nag, nag.” He rolled off her to lie on his back.
“Do you usually lounge in bed for an hour before you wake up?” Veronica climbed off the bed, making her way over to her bag.
He watched her pull out a toothbrush and comb. “Do you usually carry your entire bathroom in your purse?”
“Just the essentials - toothbrush, comb, lip gloss, change of underwear, taser.”
“Many unplanned overnight stays?”
She knew by his tone that he wasn’t trying to insult her, so she answered him honestly. “A few, but after someone threw my clothes in the toilet a couple months ago, I thought it would be best to keep an extra set of clothes on me.”
“And yet we still have to stop at your place before school?”
“Wrong bag.” She lifted her smaller black purse to demonstrate.
“Ah.” Logan thought for a moment. “Someone threw your clothes in the toilet?”
“After PE.” She wandered into his bathroom.
“Who did it?” he asked grimly. He could hear the faint sounds of her brushing her teeth, so he waited patiently for her to respond.
“I never found out.”
“You’re lying.”
“I’m not. I have my suspicions, but no solid proof. I’d actually forgotten about it until now.” When she returned, her face had a very light layer of make up, her lips were glossed and her hair was tied up in a simple pony tail. “Why do you want to know?”
“No reason,” he said unconvincingly. “So who do you think did it?”
She narrowed her eyes at him. “What are you planning on doing, Logan?”
“Nothing,” he said defensively.
“I don’t believe you.”
“Good, because I’m lying.”
“Logan.”
“Fine. I was planning on getting a little payback.”
“Why?”
“They had no right.”
“That’s funny coming from you.”
He shot to his feet, about to defend himself, but he stopped. “You’re right. But I’d never stoop to humiliating you like that.”
“Well, luckily Meg lent me her cheerleading uniform or I would’ve had to go home in a towel.”
“When was this?” he demanded, “And how did I miss it?”
A wry smile crossed her face, “And you care, why?”
“Because you’re hot,” he answered, bashfully. “I never give up the change to ogle a hot woman.”
“Of course not.”
“I would have tried to coax you into doing a cartwheel.”
“Not likely,” she smirked. “I wasn’t wearing any underwear.”
“Then I would have prayed for a nice gust of wind,” he said cheekily before diving into the bathroom to dodge the flying pillow.
When Logan came back out of the bathroom, he was dripping from his quick shower with only a towel around his waist. “You never told me when you were Miss Cheerleader.”
Veronica was openly ogling him in all his tanned, toned, buffed nakedness. “The whole purity test debacle.”
“Ah,” he smirked, not commenting at her staring, but definitely noticing it. “Now that I heard about. Sadly - or luckily, depending on your point of view - I was out that week.”
A knowing smile graced her lips. “I know.”
“How did you know?”
“I checked.”
“I’m shocked,” he said in mock offense, “you suspected me?”
“No, I wondered why you weren’t participating in all the ‘fun’.” She shrugged, “and I was curious to know how you’d scored.”
“Why Ronnie, I always knew you secretly stalked me.”
“Old habits.” At his frown of confusion, she explained, “You were a big part of my life for a very long time. I used to know everything that was happening in your life and Duncan’s.” She shrugged, “I guess I never stopped wanting to know.” She smirked, “And I have to admit I was curious to know how well you’d score.”
“How ‘well’? Why? Is there a right and wrong score?” he smirked.
“Always.”
“Really? And what exactly is your idea of a right score?”
“Not telling. Why should it matter anyway? It’s not like you took it.”
“And how do you know I didn’t take it?”
“I have my ways.”
“You didn’t happen to try to purchase my results, did you?”
She scoffed, “Like I’d waste money on you.”
Harrumphing, Logan grabbed a pair of boxers from his drawers and walked into his closet to dress.
“Hey, can you lend me some sweatpants?” she asked. “I don’t want to put that skirt back on.”
He came out smirking.
She narrowed her eyes knowing what he wanted in exchange for the pants. Huffing, she revealed, “I know who set up the website. It was easy just to ask for your test scores.”
Tossing the sweats to her, he asked, “How’d you find out who started the site?”
“Trade secret,” she smirked and stepped into the barely gray sweats. “Hey, these almost fit.”
“I wore those before my growth spurt.” He looked at her, amused by the fact that they were still half a foot too long and she had to pull the drawstring extremely tight before they would stay on.
Ignoring him, she rolled the pant legs up to about mid-calf, creating a nice cuff which she pinned up with safety pins from her purse. Slipping on her Keds, she hopped to her feet, “Let’s go.”
Logan couldn’t believe how cute she looked in his clothes. She’d somehow managed to turn old sweats and a button up shirt into an outfit. “You could just wear that to school.”
Knowing that he was complimenting her as well as trying to avoid stopping by her apartment, she rolled her eyes. “Fine, but if I hear one comment about me wearing men’s clothing, you’re getting it.”
He nodded, “Okay.”
“Let’s go.”
“Hold your horses. If you hadn’t noticed, I’m not quite dressed yet.”
“Hurry up.”
“Why are you in such a rush?”
“I have things to do.”
“More important than me? I’m offended.”
“The world doesn’t revolve around you, Logan Echolls.”
“My world does.”
“Are you ready yet?”
Tying his last shoe, he clapped, “Let’s go.”
Veronica led the way out, walking softly, trying to avoid being noticed.
“Don’t worry. Dad and Trina don’t wake up this early.”
“Really?” she said wryly, “You think I didn’t notice that both of them didn’t come home until the crack of dawn?”
“Then why are you trying to be all stealthy?”
“I don’t want to embarrass Carlita. She already walked in on us sleeping together.”
“Don’t worry about her. She’s made of tough stuff.”
“She has to be to deal with you on a daily basis.”
--
“Stop shifting,” Veronica ordered.
“You messed up my seat,” Logan complained, shifting his seat again. “You shouldn’t have touched it.”
“I kind of had to. I can’t exactly drive a car when I can’t reach the pedals or the steering wheel.”
“That’s why I don’t let anyone else drive my car,” he grumbled.
“Fine, next time you can just sleep in your car.”
“You could have taken your car.”
“And risk having you hurl in it? Not a chance.”
He glared at her as he parked his car. “I didn’t hurl.”
“Not this time.”
“The only car I’ve ever hurled in is Trina’s.”
“She must feel so special.”
“Of course.”
Veronica shook her head at him and climbed out of the car. She was surprised when he joined her, walking with her into the school. “I don’t need an escort.”
“I know. But everyone and their mother will know that you and I came to school together ten second before we walk through that door. I’m just hoping to prevent a little bloodshed.”
She smirked, “Have I ever been known to draw blood?”
“That just means there are no witnesses.”
Laughing, she pushed her way into the school building where she was met by silence. She looked up at Logan and reminded, “One remark-”
“I know.”
Ignoring the stares and the whispers, she went straight to her locker.
Wallace was waiting for her. “What’s up?”
“Nothing really. All my cases are finished so all that’s left to do is school. You know, normal stuff.”
“What’s up with him?” He gestured his head toward Logan who had gone down the hall to his own locker.
She looked over at him. “I couldn’t find his mom.”
“Oh,” Wallace said, understanding the implication.
“Yeah.”
“Well, superfly,” he said, checking her out, “I think you’re going to start a new trend.”
She rolled her eyes. “They’re just clothes.”
“Yeah. Men’s clothes.”
“Not everything. I doubt men wear camisoles.” She frowned, “at least not the average man.” She shrugged, “Anyway, the shirt’s impractical. It keeps getting in my way.”
“Before I become more effeminate, let’s step away from the clothing talk.”
“What would you prefer to discuss? Hairstyles? Make up?” she teased.
“Basketball. Let’s talk about basketball.”
“Big game next week,” she commented.
“Yeah, Jack and I are going to play some one-on-one to keep our skills up.”
“Oh, can I watch? She asked with excess enthusiasm. “I’ll be your groupie.”
“Musicians have groupies.”
“Then I’ll be your personal cheerleader.”
Wallace grinned, “I thought you were Logan’s.”
--
“What the hell were you doing with Veronica Mars?” Dick asked Logan.
“None of your business.”
Casablancas grinned, “Did you tap her ass? Is she as kinky as everyone says?”
Logan rolled his eyes. “No, I didn’t and no, she probably isn’t. You know as well as I do that Ronnie’s probably as pure as newly fallen snow.”
Dick was a little slow on most days, but he caught on to his friend’s mood pretty quickly. “So what were you doing with her?”
“Nothing. She helped me out with something. She left her car at school during the dance last night, I just offered to drive her back.”
Dick grinned, “Well, aren’t you the good Samaritan.”
“Check you later,” Logan nodded. “Unlike some people, I’d prefer to get to class on time.”
Dick watched him leave. Once Logan was out of sight, he turned to inform the masses - Veronica Mars was no longer public enemy number one.
--
“Have you noticed anything odd today?” Veronica asked as she joined Wallace for lunch.
He frowned, “Not really. Why?”
A group of 09ers walked passed. Each waved and called, “Hey Veronica!”
“What’s that all about?” Wallace asked.
“No idea. All morning people have been saying ‘hi’ to me. It’s like a conspiracy.”
“Do you think it might have something to do with Logan?”
“I don’t see why.”
He looked at her as if she were dense. “He’s the monkey leader. Maybe he asked everyone to be nice to you.”
“I don’t see why,” she repeated, poking at her lunch.
“Are you deliberately not considering the possibility?”
“Maybe.” She sighed, “It’s just weird to know that one person could have such a large effect on my life.”
“At least he’s using his powers for good.”
“It would make my life a lot easier.” She smirked, “Creepier, but easier.”
They continued through lunch with a steady stream of interruptions from all the 09ers.
--
Veronica saw Logan next during journalism class.
“Well, don’t you make a dress shirt look cute,” he grinned.
She had folded the bottom of the shirt up to her hips and gathered all the loose material into a knot at the base of her spine so that the front pulled tightly against her. She shrugged, “It was getting in my way.”
“Well, it’s not now.” With the shirt pulled tight like that, it served to emphasize her trim figure. Logan openly admired her as he asked, “Do you need a ride home?”
“Nope. My car’s in the lot.”
“Right.”
She smirked, “Have you gotten your fill?”
He grinned, “Not quite.”
“You know, some people might find your staring offensive.”
“I’m a great connoisseur of the female form. You should be flattered.” He finally lifted his gaze from the smooth skin peeking out from the bottom of the shirt. “Do you mind if I come over later? I want to drop off you check.”
Veronica looked at him, a soft expression coming over her face. “Your mom was always nice to me. You don’t have to-”
“I want to.” Logan said firmly, “What you did for me means more than anything.” He shrugged, “It’s Aaron’s money anyway. The bastard doesn’t deserve it.”
Seeing how serious he was, she nodded her agreement.
Letting a breath out in relief, Logan smiled at her. “So, how’s your day been so far?”
“Logan Echolls making small talk?” she teased. “It’s the end of the world.”
“Hey, I know how to make small talk.”
“Of course you do.”
“Well,” he urged, waiting for her answer.
“My day’s been a little odd.”
“That’s not normal for you?” he smirked.
She glared, “Odd for me. People keep saying ‘hi’ to me.”
He chuckled a little. “And that’s wrong?”
“It is, considering I’ve been persona non grata for the past year. I have this odd feeling that something funny is going on.”
Logan looked down at his hands. “Nothing funny,” he promised. “It’s Dick’s doing.”
“Dick?” she said in disbelief. “As in Dick Casablancas?”
“Yeah. He’s been telling everyone that you’re a friend.”
“Why?”
“Because he’s my friend and he likes to keep me happy.”
“Need a little more explanation here.”
“Dick - oddly enough - is very perceptive to my moods. He’s noticed that you and I are on friendlier terms, so he’s let everyone know that they won’t get on my good side by being less than courteous to you.”
She snorted cynically, “I always knew 09ers didn’t have brains of their own.”
“What happened to you last year was my fault,” he admitted. “I knew that Dick was telling people that I was less than pleased with you. I let everything get out of hand because of my own bitterness.” He looked at her contritely, “I promise, I’ll never let that happen again.”
“Must be nice to have the world swing with your moods,” she sighed.
He was surprised that she’d forgive him so easily. “You’re not mad?”
“Not with you. I understand what grief can do to a person. It’s not your fault that your friends are mindless automatons. As for everything you did, it’s not like I didn’t strike back at you with equal disdain. Neither of us was very nice.”
“You may have developed a hard outer shell, Veronica Mars, but underneath you’re still the same old softy that I met when I was twelve.”
“I can say the exact same thing about you.”
--
“Can you please tell your friends to tone down the friendly greetings?” Veronica walked up to Logan after school. “It’s getting a little creepy.”
Logan smirked. “They’re just being nice.”
“Please,” she scoffed, “They’re pandering.”
“Just a little.” He slung his arm around her shoulders and started leading her toward the parking lot. “Don’t worry. You’ll get use to it.”
She pouted, “I don’t want to.”
“Ronnie, be a big girl.” He coaxed playfully.
“I forgot what I had to put up with by being your friend.”
“That’s the spirit,” he cheered.
She shoved him away. “Get away from me. I don’t need or want to suffer from more of your lackeys.”
He laughed as he walked away.
--
“So what’s going on with you and Veronica?” Duncan asked.
Logan looked away from the game for a second before shrugging. “Nothing. She helped me, you know.” At Duncan’s blank stare, he elaborated, “With my mom.”
“Oh, I was wondering why everyone was being nice to her again.”
Logan turned away from his game entirely. “Why? Do you have a problem with people being nice to her?”
“No, of course not.”
Logan eyed him suspiciously before focusing back to the television.
“So you’re not dating or anything?” Duncan asked.
Pausing the game, Logan tossed his remote on the floor. “What exactly are you worried about, Duncan? You broke up with Veronica almost two years ago. You’ve dated at least three other girls since and I’m pretty sure you just started dating Meg Manning.”
“I am.”
“So my question to you is: why do you care who Veronica dates… or do you only care if I’m the one she’s dating?”
Duncan glared at him. “Would you just answer my question?”
“No, we’re not dating,” he answered and after a paused added, “but I’ve been considering asking her.”
His body went completely stiff at this pronouncement. “W-”
A knock at the door interrupted Duncan before he could continue.
“Mr. Logan, you have visitor,” the maid called.
“Come in,” Logan responded.
“Hey, I came by to return your things,” Veronica said as she entered his room. She stopped short when she saw Duncan. “Hi.”
Logan stood and took the bag from her. “Thanks.” He glanced inside, “Did you wash them?”
“No,” she said impishly. “I figured you’d just throw it in with the rest of your dry cleaning anyway.”
Duncan frowned in confusion. “You wore Logan’s clothes to school on Friday?”
“He was nice enough to lend me some clothes since I didn’t have time to stop at my place before school.”
“Were you working on a case?”
“No,” she answered slowly. “I drove Logan home after the dance and stayed with him to make sure he didn’t swallow his tongue or choke on his own vomit.”
“I didn’t vomit,” Logan said offended.
“Nope,” she smiled, “only some dry heaving.”
“Cute,” Logan snarked. He snapped his fingers, “Oh, here,” he pulled a strip of lace from his chest. Hand it to her, he remarked, “you must have missed it.”
“Thanks,” she pocketed the ribbon. “I have to get all that stuff back to Meg.”
An awkward silence fell between them.
Veronica looked between the two boys. “I’m gonna go. Sorry for interrupting.” She lifted her hand in a wave and made to leave.
“Veronica, wait,” Duncan stopped her. “Since you’re here, why don’t we clear the air?”
“I didn’t realize that there was air that needed clearing.” She glanced curiously at Logan to find him glaring at Duncan. “What’s going on?”
“We were just wondering what your feelings toward Logan were.”
“This is the air that needs clearing?” She smirked at Logan, “I didn’t realize my feelings were a worthy topic for conversation.”
“You know me, Mars,” Logan said dryly. “I can’t go two minutes without bringing your name up.”
“Oh, stop,” she pushed him playfully, “you’re making me blush.”
“Could you please just answer the question,” Duncan said impatiently.
She was surprised by his manner. Shrugging, she said, “Logan and I are friends.”
“That’s it?”
“Geez, Duncan,” she frowned, “you’re acting like a jealous boyfriend.”
“That’s because he is,” Logan sat back down on the foot of his bed.
“Duncan’s not my boyfriend.”
“But he’s jealous like one,” he commented fliply.
“Why would he be jealous?” She looked to Duncan and repeated, “Why are you jealous?”
“Because he’s still in love with you,” Logan stated the blatantly obvious fact.
“You have a nice way of showing it,” she snorted. “You broke up with me without a word two years ago. I had to find out after the fact from Lilly.” She wrapped her arms around herself defensively.
“There were reasons,” Duncan argued.
“Well, it would have been nice to hear those reasons,” she said bitterly. “You didn’t even care enough to face me and tell me it was over.”
“I couldn’t! I knew if I had to face you I wouldn’t be able to go through with it!” He said desperately, “but I had to.”
“Why?” she demanded. “Why was it so important for you to break up with me?”
Duncan exploded, “Because you’re my sister!”
“What?” Logan shot to his feet in surprise.
Duncan ignored him. “You’re my sister. And it was wrong! I tried to stop loving you, but I couldn’t. Even after what happened at Shelly’s, I can’t stop.”
Veronica felt like she’d been slapped. “What?”
Both watched as her face crumpled and tears pooled in her eyes.
“Veronica?” Logan approached her slowly.
Her voice cracked as she whispered, “It was you. You were the one that raped me.”
“Raped you?” Duncan said in disbelief. “You were there.”
Logan tuned Duncan out as he focused all his attention on Veronica. Gently, he reached out and wrapped his arms loosely around her waist in support.
Duncan said, dejected, “You don’t remember.”
“I was drugged,” she whispered painfully.
“Maybe that’s a good thing.” Duncan clarified, “That you don’t remember.”
“Because waking up alone and thinking she was raped is so much better,” Logan snarked bitterly.
“Better than knowing that you lost your virginity to your sister willingly.” Duncan slumped back against the dresser, sliding to the floor.
Veronica ripped herself from Logan’s arms, locking herself in his bathroom.
Logan slumped down on his bed. “This is so messed up.”
Duncan snorted, “Thank you for stating the obvious.”
“Are you sure? That Veronica’s your sister?”
“Mom told me. Dad and Mrs. Mars have been having an affair for years… since high school.”
“But are you sure that she’s your sister?”
“I just assumed that what mom said was true.”
“Because everything that Celeste says is true.” Logan commented sarcastically. He pulled himself to his feet, relocating to sit on the floor just outside the bathroom. He could hear her crying through the door. “Veronica? There’s something I have to tell you.”
“Now’s not the best time,” she responded through her tears.
“I thought it might help you deal if you knew who drugged you.”
He heard silence until the soft whispered words of “You Know?” reached his ears.
“I know who had the drugs.” Logan said, “But I can’t say how exactly they got to you.”
“Who?”
“Sean, Luke,” he paused, “and me.” At her silence, he continued. “I know Sean sold his to a freshman over Christmas and I used one myself at Shelly’s and gave the other one to Tad. Luke gave his to Dick.”
Duncan shouted, “Dick Casablancas drugged Veronica? I’m going to kill him!”
“It wasn’t Dick,” Logan said. “Not exactly.”
“What?” Duncan frowned in confusion.
“Dick tried to drug his girlfriend,” Logan explained. “I think,” he said slowly, “that without knowing it, Madison drugged you.”
“What?” Duncan said in surprise.
“Dick didn’t take into account the fact that Madison was on Atkins and put the GHB in regular soda… not diet. She didn’t drink it. I’m guessing she gave Veronica a ‘trip to the dentist’.”
“What?” Duncan said curiously.
Logan looked annoyed at Duncan. “I swear, if you say ‘what’ again…”
Duncan shrugged.
“And for your information ‘a trip to the dentist’ is when you spit in a cup. Madison usually gives them to people she hates.”
“So Madison accidentally drugged Veronica,” Duncan stated.
“That’s my best guess.” Logan heard shuffling in the bathroom, water running and then the bathroom lock clicked. He looked up at her gauging her emotional stability. Biting the bullet, he said, “I have one more thing to confess.”
She sniffled lightly, “What?” She smiled softly when she realized what she’d just said.
Logan took a deep breath before admitting. “Duncan wasn’t drunk. I drugged him.” He hurried to explain, “He’d been so different since Lilly died. I just wanted him to have some fun, you know?”
Duncan shook his head. “It wasn’t your fault. I didn’t finish that drink you gave me. I set it down to help Veronica and it got knocked over. That night, I was drunk.”
Logan dropped his head in relief.
Veronica knelt down beside him. “It’s not your fault. You didn’t know what would happen.”
He pulled her into a hug in part to comfort her and in part to reassure himself that she didn’t hate him.
Looking at them together, Duncan got his answer. Standing he made his way around them. “I’m gonna go.”
“Duncan?” Veronica whispered softly. “I’m not mad at you, but it’s going to take me a little while to get over this.”
“I understand.”
“And to answer your question from before? I don’t know how I feel about Logan. Things have changed so much, so quickly. But you shouldn’t be jealous of him even if I do turn out to have feelings for him. I don’t love you anymore… and not just because you might be my brother. When you broke up with me you forced me to get over you… and I did.”
Duncan stood there for a moment before nodding and walking away.
Logan continued to hold her. “Are you going to be okay?”
She rested her head against his shoulder. “I will be.”
--
Madison arrived at school on Monday morning with a wide smile gracing her face. It quickly fell when she realized the shouts of ‘imposter!’ and ‘trailer trash!’ were aimed at her. She reached her locker and tore down the flyers that were layered on it.
Beside the picture of her face was a news article detailing two girls that were switched at birth. On the other side was a photo of her mansion and another of a squalid house. Under the photos was a caption that read, “Your tormentor exposed. Her origins sink lower than anyone could imagine.”
Her only response was to tear all the flyers off in fury and storm away.
--
Wallace sat down beside Veronica at lunch. He flicked his copy of the flyer. “Isn’t this over kill?”
“It’s just enough kill. Don’t worry. She definitely had it coming.” Veronica sipped her soda happily.
“You’re a scary, scary person, V. Have I told you that lately?”
“That was nothing,” she waved her hand dismissively.
“Can I take that to mean that something else is going to happen?”
She simply smiled.
“Hey,” Mac greeted, taking a seat at the table. “I take it that you are responsible for Madison’s recent fall from grace.”
Veronica shook her head. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
“Of course not,” she smiled wryly. “I’m glad you protected the identity of the other girl. I can’t imagine what would happen to her.”
“It wouldn’t be hard for people to find out,” Veronica commented.
“No, but the people at this school aren’t bright enough to put any of it together.”
--
Logan caught up to Veronica before journalism class. “Feeling better?”
“A little,” she smiled softly. “My brand of therapy takes a little while to kick in.”
He wrapped an arm around her shoulders. “Your brand of therapy seems to be hazardous to others. Do I have to worry?”
“Not unless you happen to be with Dick later this afternoon.”
“So I’ve been warned.” He opened the door to journalism for her. “Any chance you’ll tell me what you did?”
“Nope.”
--
Logan found Veronica at the offices of Mars Investigations. He sauntered in with a smile on his face.
“I thought you liked to avoid places with stained glass,” Veronica teased.
“I’m trying to cure myself of the phobia.” He sat down in the chair across from her. “I’d like to applaud you.”
“For what?” she asked innocently.
“That little paint bomb of yours. Dick was bright enough to just climb into his truck right after. His leather upholstery is covered in paint stains and blotches. Big Dick had a fit.”
“I know.”
“Clemmons wasn’t too happy either. The hallway is covered with spots of green paint.”
“It washes out.”
He smiled. “So, are you busy?”
“Not right now.”
“Feel like going for a ride?”
“Where?”
--
“What’s rest stop fifteen?” she asked curiously.
“It’s the point directly between Neptune and Pan. People go there to get anything - electronics, booze, drugs - you name it, someone’s selling it. People also go there to park.”
“So why are we going there?” She asked wryly, her eyebrow arched.
Logan smiled impishly. “Wouldn’t you like to know?”
“Logan,” she begged.
“You’ll know in a couple minutes.” He pulled the car over into the rest stop along side all the other vehicles.
Veronica looked around at all the people. “Hey, is that Weevil?” she asked, climbing out of the car.
Logan and Weevil strode toward each other.
“Yo, V, what are you doing with this white boy?” Weevil asked suspiciously.
“Just keeping him company,” she responded. “What are you doing with him?”
“Business,” Logan informed. He handed Weevil a folded up bill. “On Neptune.”
Weevil smirked, accepting the bill and pulling out a notebook.
“You’re taking bets on the basketball game?” she asked in surprise.
He simply smiled without responding.
“Why are you betting on the basketball game?” Veronica asked Logan.
“It’s my chance to get some free money,” Logan shrugged. “With your buddy, Wallace, on the team, Neptune is a sure thing.”
“You don’t even need the money.”
“Well, no, but it’s fun. It’s no skin off Weevil’s back since he’s got a backer for all the bets he takes - win or lose. So what’s the harm?”
“I guess it depends who the backer is,” Veronica tilted her head toward Weevil, hoping to get an answer.
He chuckled. “It’s not going to work, V.” He nodded his head at them as he turned to deal with his other customers.
“How do you know so much about Weevil’s arrangements?” Veronica looked up at Logan.
“It’s because I know how to gamble.”
“So tell me.”
“You’re so curious.”
“Hazard of the job.”
“Fine. This is how it works.”
--
“Don’t you think your levels of revenge were a little unbalanced?” Wallace asked her.
Veronica frowned, “What do you mean?”
“Well, Dick just got publicly humiliated and his car ruined, but Madison had her entire life turned upside down. She didn’t even know there were drugs in the cup when she gave it to you.”
“True, but it’s a girl thing. Girls are way more deserving of punishment when they hurt other girls. It’s what makes us so vicious.”
“I don’t get it.”
She rolled her eyes. “Fine. Then think of it as built up issues. Madison’s been a bitch to me and probably seventy-five percent of the school’s population.”
“So, it was cumulative revenge.”
“Exactly.”
“That’s messed up.” Wallace pulled back, dodging the punch that Veronica aimed at his shoulder. “Hey, watch the bod. I have a very important game this week.”
“How could I forget?” she said drolly.
“Hey, don’t mock. I’ve met a lot of nice people playing basketball.”
“I’m not mocking. I definitely wouldn’t mock.” They reached her locker where she glimpsed Duncan and Meg being gushy across the hall. Rolling her eyes, she quickly turned to look away. “No offense, Wallace, but I just don’t get excited about anything involving school.”
“That’s sad.”
“Ha!”
They were interrupted when Vice Principle Clemmons placed his hand on her shoulder. “Veronica, come with me.”
Veronica smirked at Wallace and said overly peppy, “I love this school.”
--
“Oh, cookies,” Logan reached over and stole one from the spirit box. Taking a bite, he said, “Mm, is this a snicker doodle?” He looked pointedly at Veronica.
Wallace slapped the box shut. “Mine.”
Logan ignored him and asked Veronica. “How come you changed your locker?”
“I wanted to be closer to you and Wallace,” she responded.
“Veronica, are you stalking me?” he tensed.
“Oh no,” she gasped in mock shock. “You found me out.” She raised her voice so it was high and squealy, “I love you, Logan. I want to marry you and have your children.”
His response was to toss her over his shoulder and say, “Let’s go.”
She shrieked in surprise, giggling. “Put me down!”
Wallace was laughing, slumped against his locker.
And this is how Duncan and Meg found them when they walked down the hall.
Duncan’s first reaction was to frown at the sight of Logan and Veronica together. He covered it up quickly though and cheered Wallace on his basketball skills.
Meg smiled curiously at Logan and Veronica. She wondered why Veronica was willingly handing over Logan’s shoulder. She couldn’t contain her laughter when she realized what Veronica was doing.
The boys looked at her in question.
She shook her head, looking at Veronica. “Nothing.”
Noticing where her attention was, Logan looked over his shoulder at Veronica. “What are you doing back there?”
“Checking out your butt,” she answered without qualms.
“Veronica,” Wallace groaned in complaint. “I didn’t need to know that.”
“I’m just taking advantage of the situation.” Veronica patted his butt. “Put me down. The blood is rushing to my head.”
Complying, Logan set her on her feet. “Come on, let’s go eat lunch.”
Wallace shook his head, “Can’t. I said I was gonna eat with the guys.” He waved and left.
Duncan and Meg also made excuses and left, leaving Logan and Veronica alone.
She looked at him contrite. “Sorry, but I already have plans.”
“See if I ever invite you people to lunch ever again,” he muttered. “All right, abandon me. Go!”
--
Veronica hadn’t discovered anything yet from her infiltration of Pan High. Maybe she’d have better luck tomorrow.
On the way back to Neptune, she received another crank call. She was reaching her crank call quota. If she got one more, she would probably scream. She was seriously considering getting a new number.
--
“Can you tell me why you have a goat crapping nuggets in the back of your van?” Veronica asked, sneaking up on Wallace.
Wallace sighed, relenting. “We stole him from Pan.”
“I gathered. Why?”
“They stole our parrot,” he said petulantly.
She smiled wryly, “Well, good luck with that.”
“You’re not going to help me?”
“Nope,” she shook her head smiling. “I don’t think so.”
“Thanks. Thanks a lot.”
She waved and headed back toward the school for class.
“Ronnie.”
She stopped to see who was calling. A bland expression graced her face. “Dick.”
“Just the person I was looking for.” He slung an arm around her shoulder.
Shoving said arm away, she asked, “What do you want?”
“To invite you to Casa Casablancas for the post game party this Friday.” Dick smiled. “Logan will be there.”
“Yeah, I’ll have to get back to you.” She pulled away entirely to get away from him.
“Tell your buddy, Wallace, to come too.” Dick called after her.
She shuddered. “So creepy.” She really wasn’t comfortable being viewed as an 09er. Not anymore.
--
“Anything?” Meg asked
Veronica shook her head. “The guy’s concealed his identity. Gloves, mask, altered voice.”
Meg looked at Veronica. “So what’s going on between you and Logan?”
“Nice segue,” Veronica smirked.
Meg smiled, “Well?”
“Nothing. We’re friends.”
“That’s all?”
“For now.”
She raised an eyebrow. “So you expect there to be more?”
Veronica glared at her before sighing. “I don’t know.”
“Do you want there to be?”
“Maybe.”
“If it helps, you two look good together.” Meg commented, “And the way he looks at you…” she sighed. “I wish Duncan looked at me like that.”
“Like what?”
“Like I’m everything.”
--
Veronica hesitantly stepped into the gym to support Wallace. Solving her birdnapping case, she might as well sit back, relax and enjoy an exciting game of basketball. Looking around for a seat, she got several waves from the 09ers, one from Zeke, the Pan High team manager, and one from Meg, who was cheering.
Deciding that her safest bet was Meg, Veronica started toward her until she was stopped by an arm going around her waist. She was subsequently lifted over the bleachers on to a bench two rows up. “Caveman, much?” she said archly.
Logan said innocently, “I was saving you from the brainless masses. You could have been eaten alive down there.”
She peeked at his companions. “I think I’d rather brave the masses.”
He smirked, “They’re harmless.”
“They’re idiots.”
“Which makes them harmless.”
Dick nudged Logan. “That Pan dude is eyeing your girl.”
Sitting up straighter, Logan peered at number thirteen from the rival team. He narrowed his eyes when he found that the guy in question was in fact checking Veronica out. He watched Veronica wave at several members of the Pan team as well as Wallace as she sat watching the game. “You know those guys?”
“A little.”
“Really.”
“I met them this week.”
“How?”
“I visited Pan High.”
“Am I going to have to drag the story out of you?"
“I was looking for Polly.”
“So you did some undercover work.” Logan nodded his understanding.
“Exactly.”
“Do you want any refreshments?” Logan asked as he stood.
“Skist, please.” She watched him as he and Dick made their way down the stands.
The game was pretty one sided with Wallace making most of the baskets. She clapped and cheered for both teams until Logan returned with her drink, handing her a chocolate chip cookie along the way back to his seat.
“So are you coming to Dick’s after the game?” Logan asked.
“Maybe.”
“Why not?”
“I don’t particularly like 09er parties.”
Logan nodded. “Alright.”
She smirked at him. “What? You’re not going to try to convince me to go?”
“Do you want me to?” he looked at her from beneath his lashes.
They looked at each other, staring into each other’s eyes. Veronica glanced away first. “I’ll probably stop by. Wallace has never been to an 09er party before. I promised him I’d keep him safe.”
Logan smirked, “I think Wallace can take care of himself.”
“Tell that to him.”
--
Standing by the benches after the game was over, Veronica waited for Wallace to finish changing so that they could drive over to the victory party together.
She smiled as the Pan team approached her. “Hey, guys. Great game.”
Ritchie looked down with a smile on his face. “Yeah… for Neptune.”
“If they didn’t have Fennel, we could have totally beaten them,” Zeke said enthusiastically.”
“I’ll let him know you said that.” Veronica grinned.
“You know him?” Ritchie asked. “We saw you talking to him before the game.”
“He’s my best friend.”
“So I guess your name isn’t really Betty.”
She blushed, “Yeah, sorry about that. I was looking into some missing mascots.” She stuck her hand out, “I’m Veronica.”
“Nice to meet you, Veronica,” Ritchie smiled. “Anyway, the guys and I were wondering if you’d like to join us. Zeke’s treating us to dinner since he won that bet against us.”
“She has other plans,” Logan announced as he walked up to them, throwing a proprietary arm around her shoulders. “Ronnie, come on, we’re waiting for you.”
She looked up at Logan, surprised by his behavior. “I’m waiting for Wallace.”
Nodding, Logan looked over at the guys, “Who are your friends here?”
Veronica introduced them. She could feel the tension between the boys even as they shook hands. “Logan, why don’t you go ahead? I’m driving over to Dick’s anyway.”
“You’re not trying to get out of going, are you?” He frowned, “Don’t back out at the last minute.”
She rolled her eyes, smiling, “Just go. I’m sure Dick is lost without you.”
“If you don’t show up in an hour, I’m going to send everyone out looking for you,” Logan teased.
“You’re that determined to get me to this party?”
“I’ll tie you up and carry you if I have to.” He grinned and waved. “One hour.” He threw the Pan guys one last glare before he turned and walked away.
Ritchie looked at Veronica awkwardly. “Jealous boyfriend?”
She laughed, “Logan? No, we’re just friends.”
“Didn’t seem like it,” Zeke commented.
“I guess you won’t be going with us,” Ritchie sighed.
“Another time?”
“Deal. See you later… Veronica.”
The Pan guys waved by just as Wallace was coming out of the locker room.
“What took you so long?” Veronica teased. “Were you experiencing a girl moment? Had to get your hair just right?”
“No,” he grinned. “Coach just wanted to give us a pep talk.” He clapped his hands together. “So, are you ready to party?”
--
Veronica was lounging back on the couch when Logan found her.
“Where’s Wallace?”
“Exchanging war stories with the guys.”
He handed her a new drink before slumping down beside her. Seeing her sniff the drink, he smiled. “Don’t worry. It came straight from the bottle. I made it for you myself.”
She sipped it cautiously, then smiled, “Strawberry daiquiri, extra virgin.”
“Just the way you like it.”
Veronica leaned back against him. “So what’s with you and your new penchant for invading my personal space?”
“I’m not allowed?” he asked coyly. “And I thought you liked it.” He played with the tips of her hair, winding the growing strands around his finger.
She turned into him. “What was with you earlier?”
“When you were with those Pan jocks?” he grumbled. “Nothing.”
“Were you jealous?”
“I can’t very well let some guy from Pan steal you.”
“So this is a Pan/Neptune rivalry thing.” She crossed her arms and leaned back against the couch.
“No,” he took her hand. “This is me being a jealous asshole thing. I didn’t like the way that Ritchie guy kept looking at you.”
“He was just being nice.”
“He likes you.”
“He’s just a friend.”
“That’s what you said about me.” Logan studied her.
“You are my friend.”
“You’re more than a friend to me.”
“Really?” she looked up at him.
“I want you to be.”
She looked at his honest, open expression and knew that he wanted the same thing that she did. Taking the initiative, Veronica reached up and kissed him.
The second their lips touched, his hands rose to cup her head, holding her close. Logan deepened their kiss, savoring the moment where she was finally his.
Logan focused all his energy on learning all her responses - what she liked, what made her gasp, what made her whimper. His exploration was only interrupted when she pulled away after someone shouted “Get a room!”
He looked up at her, now straddling his lap, her cheeks flushed and her chest rising up and down as she caught her breath. Logan stole one more quick kiss before she fell back with a wide grin spreading across his face. He held her firmly against him, preventing her from climbing off his lap. “Where do you think you’re going?”
Wrapping her arms around his neck, she smiled, “Nowhere.”
“Maybe we should move this to a more private venue,” he suggested.
Veronica kissed him gently on the lips. “I’d like that.”
--
The End
Author: Snuffybaby
Disclaimer: RT owns the VM universe.
Rating: PG
Pairing: LoVe
Word Count: 8.959
Spoilers: Season 1; Ruskie Business (115), Betty and Veronica (116), A Trip to the Dentist (121)
Summary: Alternate ending to Ruskie Business.
Author's Note: I just typed this up, so sorry if there are a lot of typos. Watching repeats, I found out that I got the name of Number 13 from Pan wrong... I changed it.
--
“I can’t escape Tom Cruise,” Veronica sighed as she went to follow after Leo and Logan.
“Who the hell are you?” Logan asked Leo curiously once he was cornered by a wall. His attention veered when he noticed Veronica. “Ronnie!”
She looked at him worriedly. “Logan, give me your keys.”
“Now why would I want to do that?” Logan asked, giggly. “I want to stay and party like it’s 1999.”
“Logan-”
“Who the hell are you?” Logan asked again.
“This is Deputy Dimatto. The friendly neighborhood officer that is going to overlook you underage public drunkenness.” She looked at Leo pleadingly.
The deputy nodded imperceptibly.
Veronica reached out for Logan, just to have him turn into the wall, pulling away from her. “Come on, I’ll drive you home.”
“No,” he protested. “No!”
“Logan,” she studied his attire, “you don’t have your keys on you, do you?” She glanced away from him. “What am I thinking? You’re in your underwear, of course you don’t have your keys.” Holding out her hand, “Come on, I’ll drive you home.”
Leo was surprised when Logan took it, obediently following her. He rolled his eyes when Logan asked, “Who the hell is that?”
She smirked. “For the second time, he’s Deputy Leo.”
Logan frowned, “Did you just tell me his sign?”
“That’s his name.”
“Short for Leonardo?” he asked with flair.
“You know? I don’t know.” She looked behind her at the deputy. “Well?”
He smirked, “Just Leo.”
They reached the parking lot and easily spotted Logan’s car parked crookedly by the curb. Testing the doors, Veronica found them unlocked. Spotting the keys in the ignition, she grabbed them before moving Logan around to the passenger side. Locking him in, she smiled at Leo, “Thanks.”
“You want me to follow you? Drive you back?” Leo offered.
“No, it’s okay. I think I’m gonna stay with him. He’s having a rough time dealing with his mom’s death.” She waved, “Thanks a lot.” She climbed into the driver’s seat to find Logan had slumped against the window. “Logan?”
“Hm?”
“Just checking.” She started the car and shifted into drive.
--
Pulling into the Echolls’ driveway, she threw the car into park and turned off the engine. Hiding the keys before she did anything else, Veronica reached over and brushed her hand down his arm. “Logan? You’re home.”
He grunted, but didn’t move.
She couldn’t just go around and open the door since Logan was slumped against it. He’d fall right out. Reaching over him, she grabbed the release to lower the chair back down to an inclined position. She managed to maneuver Logan into a more comfortable lying position.
Shifting her own seat down, she turned to face him, watching him sleep.
They were like that for almost an hour before Logan woke up. “Where are we?”
“In your car,” she answered calmly.
“Why?”
“Sadly, I can’t carry someone twice my weight.”
Logan studied her. She was lying across from him with her head resting on her bent arm. “How long was I asleep?”
“Almost an hour.”
“You didn’t have to stay.”
“And leave you unprotected?” she mocked, “I could never.”
“You expect to protect me?” he looked at her skeptically.
She sparked her taser to demonstrate.
He blinked. “You carry that with you everywhere?”
“No,” she said slowly. “But tonight we were meeting Meg’s secret admirer. He could have been a thug.”
“Was he?”
“Not unless you think Duncan’s a thug.”
“Am I drunk or did I hear you say Duncan?” he gapped in disbelief.
“Both, actually.”
“Duncan and Meg?” he repeated. “Why didn’t I see it? It was so obvious.”
“How do you mean?” she asked curiously.
“She’s you… or as close to you as you used to be.” He frowned, confusing himself. Rethinking his statement, he tried again, “She’s as close to you that you used to be that Duncan’s ever going to find.” His eyebrows furrowed as he thought over that statement.
She stopped him before he could attempt it again. “I get it.”
He nodded, proud of his drunken logic.
“You don’t think I’m me?” she asked him softly.
“Of course, you’re you. You’re just not the you of two years ago… or even one year ago. You’ve changed. Lost that shiny white sheen you used to carry.”
“Maybe I shouldn’t talk to you drunk.” Veronica smiled, not understanding what he was saying.
“I’m not that drunk… at least not anymore,” he grumbled. “And what I meant is that after everything you’ve gone through, you’ve changed. You’re not the innocent little Veronica that only saw the good in people and was nice to everyone.”
“So you’re saying I’m mean now?”
“I’m saying that you’re less accepting… trusting… which isn’t necessarily a bad thing.”
She was silent, waiting for him to continue.
“You’ve developed a nice judgment of character,” he continued, “something that helps you choose your friends wisely… something that helps you set your expectations of people. I’m sure if you’d met me when I was twelve you would’ve known to stay away.”
“You’re not a bad person, Logan.”
“Can you honestly say that after everything I’ve done to you?”
She decided to rephrase her statement. “You weren’t a bad person… after Lilly died, everybody changed.”
“And by everybody you mean you, Duncan and me.”
“Well, yeah, everybody that mattered. You and I got meaner.”
“And Duncan became a robot.”
“Yeah.”
“Do you think we’ll ever be normal again?”
“What’s normal?” she asked rhetorically, but to answer his question, she said, “I think we’re all starting to live again. It’s like we’ve all reached our extremes and are slowly settling back into ourselves. Duncan’s no longer robot boy.”
“You’ve settled back into your social status.”
“Come again.”
He smirked, “I haven’t come yet.”
She slapped his shoulder lightly, rolling her eyes.
“But seriously. You’ve always been a floater - you’re not quite an 09er, but they accept you and you’re not quite plain old everybody else, so they respect you.”
“And here I thought you meant that I was always a pariah, but just didn’t know it.”
“You’re special, Veronica Mars. You always have been and you always will be.”
Silence fell over the SUV.
“Come on,” Veronica sat up. “Since you’re awake, let’s get you inside. I don’t want you passing out on me again.”
Logan groaned when she opened the passenger side door. Sliding his legs out first, his body remained slumped over the seat until she slipped under his arm, wrapping her arms around his waist, trying to hoist him up.
She laughed thinking of the ridiculous sight they made with Logan’s taller frame slumped over her. “Logan, I just need you to get yourself up to your room. Then you can sleep the night away.”
Grunting his acknowledgement, they managed to make it up to his room with a lot of stumbling and some minor bumping and thudding. Luckily, they didn’t draw anyone’s attention and they were now safely tucked into Logan’s room.
The second Logan hit his bed, he was out like a light. Knowing nothing would wake him, Veronica quietly began to remove her 1980s Madonna attire.
--
“What are you doing?”
Veronica, who had been raiding Logan’s closet, didn’t miss a beat by his unexpected question. “Finding something to wear.”
He groaned, turning his head to look her way. It took a while to register that she was standing in only a towel, tiny rivulets of water dripping from her wet hair. “Huh?”
“I had to borrow your shower to get the can of hairspray out of my hair. Now I need clothes because I’m not getting back into that bustier.” She finally pulled out a blue button up shirt and said with satisfaction, “This will do.”
Logan watched with one eye open as she disappeared into the bathroom. When she came out again, she was toweling her hair dry, the shirt falling to her knees. “You didn’t have to stay.”
“I know.” She sat down on at the foot of the bed. “I didn’t want to leave you alone.”
He was about to make a snarky remark when he realized he didn’t mean it. Rolling over on to his side, he asked, “What time is it?”
“Just after one.”
“Don’t you have to go home?”
“My dad thinks I’m at Meg’s house.” She answered as she ran a comb through her hair. “So you’re stuck with me tonight, unless you want me to take your car.”
“Not a chance.”
“So how are you feeling?”
“Like a jack hammer is pounding on my brain,” he muttered, “which is a welcome relief from the clenching in my gut.”
She set down her things and crawled up the bed to lie down next to him. “Here, drink some water.” She handed him the glass that she had prepared while he was sleeping.
He grumbled, “I don’t need you to take care of me.”
“Of course you don’t, but your maids don’t come to work until seven and that’s still a couple hours away.”
“Hey, I can take care of myself.”
“Sure you can.”
“These are extenuating circumstances.” He argued, until he remembered what those extenuating circumstances were. His face fell dramatically as he curled into a ball and cried for his mother.
Without hesitating, she wrapped her arms around him, smoothing her hand down his back to calm him. She held him as he buried his face in her stomach and fell asleep in the comfort of her arms.
--
During the night, Logan had shifted in sleep so that he was sprawled across Veronica’s lower body. She had fallen asleep with her hand resting on Logan’s head.
This was how they were discovered by the maid who had come up to wake him.
“Mr. Logan, it’s time to wake up now.” Carlita knocked and called softly before entering. She was all the way in before she bothered to look up. Through experience, she knew that she would find the young man asleep on his stomach, so it took her awhile before she noticed the young woman that he was lying on top of.
Containing her shriek of surprise, she hurried out of the room, slamming the door behind her.
Veronica who had been startled awake by the maid’s entrance, laughed at her departure.
Logan was wakened by her shaking laughter. “Stop.”
“Sorry,” she smoothed her hand through his hair. “I startled your maid.”
“Carlita?” he mumbled. “It’s seven?”
“Just about.”
“We have school.” Although he stated it, he still had yet to move.
“Logan?” Veronica asked.
“Yeah.”
“Could you move your hand?”
Logan shifted his hand from her stomach to his side.
“I meant your other hand.”
He opened his eyes and blinked in confusion. It took him a minute to realize where his hand was. Grinning sheepishly, he withdrew his hand from her inner thigh, his fingers precariously close to her forbidden fruit.
“Sleep groper.”
“You know me, take advantage of every situation.”
“And I see you still do.”
Logan was trailing a hand up and down her bare leg. “That’s what happens when you wake up in bed with me.”
“Come on, get up. We still have school and you have to drive me home first because I don’t want to have to face everyone at school wearing your clothes.”
“But then we could be twins.”
“We already are,” she smirked, “except I have the good taste not to wear tighty-whities.”
“If they’re good enough for Tom Cruise…”
“Right.” She nudged his shoulder, “Well, Mr. Cruise, maybe you should hurry up and get up already.”
“Nag, nag, nag.” He rolled off her to lie on his back.
“Do you usually lounge in bed for an hour before you wake up?” Veronica climbed off the bed, making her way over to her bag.
He watched her pull out a toothbrush and comb. “Do you usually carry your entire bathroom in your purse?”
“Just the essentials - toothbrush, comb, lip gloss, change of underwear, taser.”
“Many unplanned overnight stays?”
She knew by his tone that he wasn’t trying to insult her, so she answered him honestly. “A few, but after someone threw my clothes in the toilet a couple months ago, I thought it would be best to keep an extra set of clothes on me.”
“And yet we still have to stop at your place before school?”
“Wrong bag.” She lifted her smaller black purse to demonstrate.
“Ah.” Logan thought for a moment. “Someone threw your clothes in the toilet?”
“After PE.” She wandered into his bathroom.
“Who did it?” he asked grimly. He could hear the faint sounds of her brushing her teeth, so he waited patiently for her to respond.
“I never found out.”
“You’re lying.”
“I’m not. I have my suspicions, but no solid proof. I’d actually forgotten about it until now.” When she returned, her face had a very light layer of make up, her lips were glossed and her hair was tied up in a simple pony tail. “Why do you want to know?”
“No reason,” he said unconvincingly. “So who do you think did it?”
She narrowed her eyes at him. “What are you planning on doing, Logan?”
“Nothing,” he said defensively.
“I don’t believe you.”
“Good, because I’m lying.”
“Logan.”
“Fine. I was planning on getting a little payback.”
“Why?”
“They had no right.”
“That’s funny coming from you.”
He shot to his feet, about to defend himself, but he stopped. “You’re right. But I’d never stoop to humiliating you like that.”
“Well, luckily Meg lent me her cheerleading uniform or I would’ve had to go home in a towel.”
“When was this?” he demanded, “And how did I miss it?”
A wry smile crossed her face, “And you care, why?”
“Because you’re hot,” he answered, bashfully. “I never give up the change to ogle a hot woman.”
“Of course not.”
“I would have tried to coax you into doing a cartwheel.”
“Not likely,” she smirked. “I wasn’t wearing any underwear.”
“Then I would have prayed for a nice gust of wind,” he said cheekily before diving into the bathroom to dodge the flying pillow.
When Logan came back out of the bathroom, he was dripping from his quick shower with only a towel around his waist. “You never told me when you were Miss Cheerleader.”
Veronica was openly ogling him in all his tanned, toned, buffed nakedness. “The whole purity test debacle.”
“Ah,” he smirked, not commenting at her staring, but definitely noticing it. “Now that I heard about. Sadly - or luckily, depending on your point of view - I was out that week.”
A knowing smile graced her lips. “I know.”
“How did you know?”
“I checked.”
“I’m shocked,” he said in mock offense, “you suspected me?”
“No, I wondered why you weren’t participating in all the ‘fun’.” She shrugged, “and I was curious to know how you’d scored.”
“Why Ronnie, I always knew you secretly stalked me.”
“Old habits.” At his frown of confusion, she explained, “You were a big part of my life for a very long time. I used to know everything that was happening in your life and Duncan’s.” She shrugged, “I guess I never stopped wanting to know.” She smirked, “And I have to admit I was curious to know how well you’d score.”
“How ‘well’? Why? Is there a right and wrong score?” he smirked.
“Always.”
“Really? And what exactly is your idea of a right score?”
“Not telling. Why should it matter anyway? It’s not like you took it.”
“And how do you know I didn’t take it?”
“I have my ways.”
“You didn’t happen to try to purchase my results, did you?”
She scoffed, “Like I’d waste money on you.”
Harrumphing, Logan grabbed a pair of boxers from his drawers and walked into his closet to dress.
“Hey, can you lend me some sweatpants?” she asked. “I don’t want to put that skirt back on.”
He came out smirking.
She narrowed her eyes knowing what he wanted in exchange for the pants. Huffing, she revealed, “I know who set up the website. It was easy just to ask for your test scores.”
Tossing the sweats to her, he asked, “How’d you find out who started the site?”
“Trade secret,” she smirked and stepped into the barely gray sweats. “Hey, these almost fit.”
“I wore those before my growth spurt.” He looked at her, amused by the fact that they were still half a foot too long and she had to pull the drawstring extremely tight before they would stay on.
Ignoring him, she rolled the pant legs up to about mid-calf, creating a nice cuff which she pinned up with safety pins from her purse. Slipping on her Keds, she hopped to her feet, “Let’s go.”
Logan couldn’t believe how cute she looked in his clothes. She’d somehow managed to turn old sweats and a button up shirt into an outfit. “You could just wear that to school.”
Knowing that he was complimenting her as well as trying to avoid stopping by her apartment, she rolled her eyes. “Fine, but if I hear one comment about me wearing men’s clothing, you’re getting it.”
He nodded, “Okay.”
“Let’s go.”
“Hold your horses. If you hadn’t noticed, I’m not quite dressed yet.”
“Hurry up.”
“Why are you in such a rush?”
“I have things to do.”
“More important than me? I’m offended.”
“The world doesn’t revolve around you, Logan Echolls.”
“My world does.”
“Are you ready yet?”
Tying his last shoe, he clapped, “Let’s go.”
Veronica led the way out, walking softly, trying to avoid being noticed.
“Don’t worry. Dad and Trina don’t wake up this early.”
“Really?” she said wryly, “You think I didn’t notice that both of them didn’t come home until the crack of dawn?”
“Then why are you trying to be all stealthy?”
“I don’t want to embarrass Carlita. She already walked in on us sleeping together.”
“Don’t worry about her. She’s made of tough stuff.”
“She has to be to deal with you on a daily basis.”
--
“Stop shifting,” Veronica ordered.
“You messed up my seat,” Logan complained, shifting his seat again. “You shouldn’t have touched it.”
“I kind of had to. I can’t exactly drive a car when I can’t reach the pedals or the steering wheel.”
“That’s why I don’t let anyone else drive my car,” he grumbled.
“Fine, next time you can just sleep in your car.”
“You could have taken your car.”
“And risk having you hurl in it? Not a chance.”
He glared at her as he parked his car. “I didn’t hurl.”
“Not this time.”
“The only car I’ve ever hurled in is Trina’s.”
“She must feel so special.”
“Of course.”
Veronica shook her head at him and climbed out of the car. She was surprised when he joined her, walking with her into the school. “I don’t need an escort.”
“I know. But everyone and their mother will know that you and I came to school together ten second before we walk through that door. I’m just hoping to prevent a little bloodshed.”
She smirked, “Have I ever been known to draw blood?”
“That just means there are no witnesses.”
Laughing, she pushed her way into the school building where she was met by silence. She looked up at Logan and reminded, “One remark-”
“I know.”
Ignoring the stares and the whispers, she went straight to her locker.
Wallace was waiting for her. “What’s up?”
“Nothing really. All my cases are finished so all that’s left to do is school. You know, normal stuff.”
“What’s up with him?” He gestured his head toward Logan who had gone down the hall to his own locker.
She looked over at him. “I couldn’t find his mom.”
“Oh,” Wallace said, understanding the implication.
“Yeah.”
“Well, superfly,” he said, checking her out, “I think you’re going to start a new trend.”
She rolled her eyes. “They’re just clothes.”
“Yeah. Men’s clothes.”
“Not everything. I doubt men wear camisoles.” She frowned, “at least not the average man.” She shrugged, “Anyway, the shirt’s impractical. It keeps getting in my way.”
“Before I become more effeminate, let’s step away from the clothing talk.”
“What would you prefer to discuss? Hairstyles? Make up?” she teased.
“Basketball. Let’s talk about basketball.”
“Big game next week,” she commented.
“Yeah, Jack and I are going to play some one-on-one to keep our skills up.”
“Oh, can I watch? She asked with excess enthusiasm. “I’ll be your groupie.”
“Musicians have groupies.”
“Then I’ll be your personal cheerleader.”
Wallace grinned, “I thought you were Logan’s.”
--
“What the hell were you doing with Veronica Mars?” Dick asked Logan.
“None of your business.”
Casablancas grinned, “Did you tap her ass? Is she as kinky as everyone says?”
Logan rolled his eyes. “No, I didn’t and no, she probably isn’t. You know as well as I do that Ronnie’s probably as pure as newly fallen snow.”
Dick was a little slow on most days, but he caught on to his friend’s mood pretty quickly. “So what were you doing with her?”
“Nothing. She helped me out with something. She left her car at school during the dance last night, I just offered to drive her back.”
Dick grinned, “Well, aren’t you the good Samaritan.”
“Check you later,” Logan nodded. “Unlike some people, I’d prefer to get to class on time.”
Dick watched him leave. Once Logan was out of sight, he turned to inform the masses - Veronica Mars was no longer public enemy number one.
--
“Have you noticed anything odd today?” Veronica asked as she joined Wallace for lunch.
He frowned, “Not really. Why?”
A group of 09ers walked passed. Each waved and called, “Hey Veronica!”
“What’s that all about?” Wallace asked.
“No idea. All morning people have been saying ‘hi’ to me. It’s like a conspiracy.”
“Do you think it might have something to do with Logan?”
“I don’t see why.”
He looked at her as if she were dense. “He’s the monkey leader. Maybe he asked everyone to be nice to you.”
“I don’t see why,” she repeated, poking at her lunch.
“Are you deliberately not considering the possibility?”
“Maybe.” She sighed, “It’s just weird to know that one person could have such a large effect on my life.”
“At least he’s using his powers for good.”
“It would make my life a lot easier.” She smirked, “Creepier, but easier.”
They continued through lunch with a steady stream of interruptions from all the 09ers.
--
Veronica saw Logan next during journalism class.
“Well, don’t you make a dress shirt look cute,” he grinned.
She had folded the bottom of the shirt up to her hips and gathered all the loose material into a knot at the base of her spine so that the front pulled tightly against her. She shrugged, “It was getting in my way.”
“Well, it’s not now.” With the shirt pulled tight like that, it served to emphasize her trim figure. Logan openly admired her as he asked, “Do you need a ride home?”
“Nope. My car’s in the lot.”
“Right.”
She smirked, “Have you gotten your fill?”
He grinned, “Not quite.”
“You know, some people might find your staring offensive.”
“I’m a great connoisseur of the female form. You should be flattered.” He finally lifted his gaze from the smooth skin peeking out from the bottom of the shirt. “Do you mind if I come over later? I want to drop off you check.”
Veronica looked at him, a soft expression coming over her face. “Your mom was always nice to me. You don’t have to-”
“I want to.” Logan said firmly, “What you did for me means more than anything.” He shrugged, “It’s Aaron’s money anyway. The bastard doesn’t deserve it.”
Seeing how serious he was, she nodded her agreement.
Letting a breath out in relief, Logan smiled at her. “So, how’s your day been so far?”
“Logan Echolls making small talk?” she teased. “It’s the end of the world.”
“Hey, I know how to make small talk.”
“Of course you do.”
“Well,” he urged, waiting for her answer.
“My day’s been a little odd.”
“That’s not normal for you?” he smirked.
She glared, “Odd for me. People keep saying ‘hi’ to me.”
He chuckled a little. “And that’s wrong?”
“It is, considering I’ve been persona non grata for the past year. I have this odd feeling that something funny is going on.”
Logan looked down at his hands. “Nothing funny,” he promised. “It’s Dick’s doing.”
“Dick?” she said in disbelief. “As in Dick Casablancas?”
“Yeah. He’s been telling everyone that you’re a friend.”
“Why?”
“Because he’s my friend and he likes to keep me happy.”
“Need a little more explanation here.”
“Dick - oddly enough - is very perceptive to my moods. He’s noticed that you and I are on friendlier terms, so he’s let everyone know that they won’t get on my good side by being less than courteous to you.”
She snorted cynically, “I always knew 09ers didn’t have brains of their own.”
“What happened to you last year was my fault,” he admitted. “I knew that Dick was telling people that I was less than pleased with you. I let everything get out of hand because of my own bitterness.” He looked at her contritely, “I promise, I’ll never let that happen again.”
“Must be nice to have the world swing with your moods,” she sighed.
He was surprised that she’d forgive him so easily. “You’re not mad?”
“Not with you. I understand what grief can do to a person. It’s not your fault that your friends are mindless automatons. As for everything you did, it’s not like I didn’t strike back at you with equal disdain. Neither of us was very nice.”
“You may have developed a hard outer shell, Veronica Mars, but underneath you’re still the same old softy that I met when I was twelve.”
“I can say the exact same thing about you.”
--
“Can you please tell your friends to tone down the friendly greetings?” Veronica walked up to Logan after school. “It’s getting a little creepy.”
Logan smirked. “They’re just being nice.”
“Please,” she scoffed, “They’re pandering.”
“Just a little.” He slung his arm around her shoulders and started leading her toward the parking lot. “Don’t worry. You’ll get use to it.”
She pouted, “I don’t want to.”
“Ronnie, be a big girl.” He coaxed playfully.
“I forgot what I had to put up with by being your friend.”
“That’s the spirit,” he cheered.
She shoved him away. “Get away from me. I don’t need or want to suffer from more of your lackeys.”
He laughed as he walked away.
--
“So what’s going on with you and Veronica?” Duncan asked.
Logan looked away from the game for a second before shrugging. “Nothing. She helped me, you know.” At Duncan’s blank stare, he elaborated, “With my mom.”
“Oh, I was wondering why everyone was being nice to her again.”
Logan turned away from his game entirely. “Why? Do you have a problem with people being nice to her?”
“No, of course not.”
Logan eyed him suspiciously before focusing back to the television.
“So you’re not dating or anything?” Duncan asked.
Pausing the game, Logan tossed his remote on the floor. “What exactly are you worried about, Duncan? You broke up with Veronica almost two years ago. You’ve dated at least three other girls since and I’m pretty sure you just started dating Meg Manning.”
“I am.”
“So my question to you is: why do you care who Veronica dates… or do you only care if I’m the one she’s dating?”
Duncan glared at him. “Would you just answer my question?”
“No, we’re not dating,” he answered and after a paused added, “but I’ve been considering asking her.”
His body went completely stiff at this pronouncement. “W-”
A knock at the door interrupted Duncan before he could continue.
“Mr. Logan, you have visitor,” the maid called.
“Come in,” Logan responded.
“Hey, I came by to return your things,” Veronica said as she entered his room. She stopped short when she saw Duncan. “Hi.”
Logan stood and took the bag from her. “Thanks.” He glanced inside, “Did you wash them?”
“No,” she said impishly. “I figured you’d just throw it in with the rest of your dry cleaning anyway.”
Duncan frowned in confusion. “You wore Logan’s clothes to school on Friday?”
“He was nice enough to lend me some clothes since I didn’t have time to stop at my place before school.”
“Were you working on a case?”
“No,” she answered slowly. “I drove Logan home after the dance and stayed with him to make sure he didn’t swallow his tongue or choke on his own vomit.”
“I didn’t vomit,” Logan said offended.
“Nope,” she smiled, “only some dry heaving.”
“Cute,” Logan snarked. He snapped his fingers, “Oh, here,” he pulled a strip of lace from his chest. Hand it to her, he remarked, “you must have missed it.”
“Thanks,” she pocketed the ribbon. “I have to get all that stuff back to Meg.”
An awkward silence fell between them.
Veronica looked between the two boys. “I’m gonna go. Sorry for interrupting.” She lifted her hand in a wave and made to leave.
“Veronica, wait,” Duncan stopped her. “Since you’re here, why don’t we clear the air?”
“I didn’t realize that there was air that needed clearing.” She glanced curiously at Logan to find him glaring at Duncan. “What’s going on?”
“We were just wondering what your feelings toward Logan were.”
“This is the air that needs clearing?” She smirked at Logan, “I didn’t realize my feelings were a worthy topic for conversation.”
“You know me, Mars,” Logan said dryly. “I can’t go two minutes without bringing your name up.”
“Oh, stop,” she pushed him playfully, “you’re making me blush.”
“Could you please just answer the question,” Duncan said impatiently.
She was surprised by his manner. Shrugging, she said, “Logan and I are friends.”
“That’s it?”
“Geez, Duncan,” she frowned, “you’re acting like a jealous boyfriend.”
“That’s because he is,” Logan sat back down on the foot of his bed.
“Duncan’s not my boyfriend.”
“But he’s jealous like one,” he commented fliply.
“Why would he be jealous?” She looked to Duncan and repeated, “Why are you jealous?”
“Because he’s still in love with you,” Logan stated the blatantly obvious fact.
“You have a nice way of showing it,” she snorted. “You broke up with me without a word two years ago. I had to find out after the fact from Lilly.” She wrapped her arms around herself defensively.
“There were reasons,” Duncan argued.
“Well, it would have been nice to hear those reasons,” she said bitterly. “You didn’t even care enough to face me and tell me it was over.”
“I couldn’t! I knew if I had to face you I wouldn’t be able to go through with it!” He said desperately, “but I had to.”
“Why?” she demanded. “Why was it so important for you to break up with me?”
Duncan exploded, “Because you’re my sister!”
“What?” Logan shot to his feet in surprise.
Duncan ignored him. “You’re my sister. And it was wrong! I tried to stop loving you, but I couldn’t. Even after what happened at Shelly’s, I can’t stop.”
Veronica felt like she’d been slapped. “What?”
Both watched as her face crumpled and tears pooled in her eyes.
“Veronica?” Logan approached her slowly.
Her voice cracked as she whispered, “It was you. You were the one that raped me.”
“Raped you?” Duncan said in disbelief. “You were there.”
Logan tuned Duncan out as he focused all his attention on Veronica. Gently, he reached out and wrapped his arms loosely around her waist in support.
Duncan said, dejected, “You don’t remember.”
“I was drugged,” she whispered painfully.
“Maybe that’s a good thing.” Duncan clarified, “That you don’t remember.”
“Because waking up alone and thinking she was raped is so much better,” Logan snarked bitterly.
“Better than knowing that you lost your virginity to your sister willingly.” Duncan slumped back against the dresser, sliding to the floor.
Veronica ripped herself from Logan’s arms, locking herself in his bathroom.
Logan slumped down on his bed. “This is so messed up.”
Duncan snorted, “Thank you for stating the obvious.”
“Are you sure? That Veronica’s your sister?”
“Mom told me. Dad and Mrs. Mars have been having an affair for years… since high school.”
“But are you sure that she’s your sister?”
“I just assumed that what mom said was true.”
“Because everything that Celeste says is true.” Logan commented sarcastically. He pulled himself to his feet, relocating to sit on the floor just outside the bathroom. He could hear her crying through the door. “Veronica? There’s something I have to tell you.”
“Now’s not the best time,” she responded through her tears.
“I thought it might help you deal if you knew who drugged you.”
He heard silence until the soft whispered words of “You Know?” reached his ears.
“I know who had the drugs.” Logan said, “But I can’t say how exactly they got to you.”
“Who?”
“Sean, Luke,” he paused, “and me.” At her silence, he continued. “I know Sean sold his to a freshman over Christmas and I used one myself at Shelly’s and gave the other one to Tad. Luke gave his to Dick.”
Duncan shouted, “Dick Casablancas drugged Veronica? I’m going to kill him!”
“It wasn’t Dick,” Logan said. “Not exactly.”
“What?” Duncan frowned in confusion.
“Dick tried to drug his girlfriend,” Logan explained. “I think,” he said slowly, “that without knowing it, Madison drugged you.”
“What?” Duncan said in surprise.
“Dick didn’t take into account the fact that Madison was on Atkins and put the GHB in regular soda… not diet. She didn’t drink it. I’m guessing she gave Veronica a ‘trip to the dentist’.”
“What?” Duncan said curiously.
Logan looked annoyed at Duncan. “I swear, if you say ‘what’ again…”
Duncan shrugged.
“And for your information ‘a trip to the dentist’ is when you spit in a cup. Madison usually gives them to people she hates.”
“So Madison accidentally drugged Veronica,” Duncan stated.
“That’s my best guess.” Logan heard shuffling in the bathroom, water running and then the bathroom lock clicked. He looked up at her gauging her emotional stability. Biting the bullet, he said, “I have one more thing to confess.”
She sniffled lightly, “What?” She smiled softly when she realized what she’d just said.
Logan took a deep breath before admitting. “Duncan wasn’t drunk. I drugged him.” He hurried to explain, “He’d been so different since Lilly died. I just wanted him to have some fun, you know?”
Duncan shook his head. “It wasn’t your fault. I didn’t finish that drink you gave me. I set it down to help Veronica and it got knocked over. That night, I was drunk.”
Logan dropped his head in relief.
Veronica knelt down beside him. “It’s not your fault. You didn’t know what would happen.”
He pulled her into a hug in part to comfort her and in part to reassure himself that she didn’t hate him.
Looking at them together, Duncan got his answer. Standing he made his way around them. “I’m gonna go.”
“Duncan?” Veronica whispered softly. “I’m not mad at you, but it’s going to take me a little while to get over this.”
“I understand.”
“And to answer your question from before? I don’t know how I feel about Logan. Things have changed so much, so quickly. But you shouldn’t be jealous of him even if I do turn out to have feelings for him. I don’t love you anymore… and not just because you might be my brother. When you broke up with me you forced me to get over you… and I did.”
Duncan stood there for a moment before nodding and walking away.
Logan continued to hold her. “Are you going to be okay?”
She rested her head against his shoulder. “I will be.”
--
Madison arrived at school on Monday morning with a wide smile gracing her face. It quickly fell when she realized the shouts of ‘imposter!’ and ‘trailer trash!’ were aimed at her. She reached her locker and tore down the flyers that were layered on it.
Beside the picture of her face was a news article detailing two girls that were switched at birth. On the other side was a photo of her mansion and another of a squalid house. Under the photos was a caption that read, “Your tormentor exposed. Her origins sink lower than anyone could imagine.”
Her only response was to tear all the flyers off in fury and storm away.
--
Wallace sat down beside Veronica at lunch. He flicked his copy of the flyer. “Isn’t this over kill?”
“It’s just enough kill. Don’t worry. She definitely had it coming.” Veronica sipped her soda happily.
“You’re a scary, scary person, V. Have I told you that lately?”
“That was nothing,” she waved her hand dismissively.
“Can I take that to mean that something else is going to happen?”
She simply smiled.
“Hey,” Mac greeted, taking a seat at the table. “I take it that you are responsible for Madison’s recent fall from grace.”
Veronica shook her head. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
“Of course not,” she smiled wryly. “I’m glad you protected the identity of the other girl. I can’t imagine what would happen to her.”
“It wouldn’t be hard for people to find out,” Veronica commented.
“No, but the people at this school aren’t bright enough to put any of it together.”
--
Logan caught up to Veronica before journalism class. “Feeling better?”
“A little,” she smiled softly. “My brand of therapy takes a little while to kick in.”
He wrapped an arm around her shoulders. “Your brand of therapy seems to be hazardous to others. Do I have to worry?”
“Not unless you happen to be with Dick later this afternoon.”
“So I’ve been warned.” He opened the door to journalism for her. “Any chance you’ll tell me what you did?”
“Nope.”
--
Logan found Veronica at the offices of Mars Investigations. He sauntered in with a smile on his face.
“I thought you liked to avoid places with stained glass,” Veronica teased.
“I’m trying to cure myself of the phobia.” He sat down in the chair across from her. “I’d like to applaud you.”
“For what?” she asked innocently.
“That little paint bomb of yours. Dick was bright enough to just climb into his truck right after. His leather upholstery is covered in paint stains and blotches. Big Dick had a fit.”
“I know.”
“Clemmons wasn’t too happy either. The hallway is covered with spots of green paint.”
“It washes out.”
He smiled. “So, are you busy?”
“Not right now.”
“Feel like going for a ride?”
“Where?”
--
“What’s rest stop fifteen?” she asked curiously.
“It’s the point directly between Neptune and Pan. People go there to get anything - electronics, booze, drugs - you name it, someone’s selling it. People also go there to park.”
“So why are we going there?” She asked wryly, her eyebrow arched.
Logan smiled impishly. “Wouldn’t you like to know?”
“Logan,” she begged.
“You’ll know in a couple minutes.” He pulled the car over into the rest stop along side all the other vehicles.
Veronica looked around at all the people. “Hey, is that Weevil?” she asked, climbing out of the car.
Logan and Weevil strode toward each other.
“Yo, V, what are you doing with this white boy?” Weevil asked suspiciously.
“Just keeping him company,” she responded. “What are you doing with him?”
“Business,” Logan informed. He handed Weevil a folded up bill. “On Neptune.”
Weevil smirked, accepting the bill and pulling out a notebook.
“You’re taking bets on the basketball game?” she asked in surprise.
He simply smiled without responding.
“Why are you betting on the basketball game?” Veronica asked Logan.
“It’s my chance to get some free money,” Logan shrugged. “With your buddy, Wallace, on the team, Neptune is a sure thing.”
“You don’t even need the money.”
“Well, no, but it’s fun. It’s no skin off Weevil’s back since he’s got a backer for all the bets he takes - win or lose. So what’s the harm?”
“I guess it depends who the backer is,” Veronica tilted her head toward Weevil, hoping to get an answer.
He chuckled. “It’s not going to work, V.” He nodded his head at them as he turned to deal with his other customers.
“How do you know so much about Weevil’s arrangements?” Veronica looked up at Logan.
“It’s because I know how to gamble.”
“So tell me.”
“You’re so curious.”
“Hazard of the job.”
“Fine. This is how it works.”
--
“Don’t you think your levels of revenge were a little unbalanced?” Wallace asked her.
Veronica frowned, “What do you mean?”
“Well, Dick just got publicly humiliated and his car ruined, but Madison had her entire life turned upside down. She didn’t even know there were drugs in the cup when she gave it to you.”
“True, but it’s a girl thing. Girls are way more deserving of punishment when they hurt other girls. It’s what makes us so vicious.”
“I don’t get it.”
She rolled her eyes. “Fine. Then think of it as built up issues. Madison’s been a bitch to me and probably seventy-five percent of the school’s population.”
“So, it was cumulative revenge.”
“Exactly.”
“That’s messed up.” Wallace pulled back, dodging the punch that Veronica aimed at his shoulder. “Hey, watch the bod. I have a very important game this week.”
“How could I forget?” she said drolly.
“Hey, don’t mock. I’ve met a lot of nice people playing basketball.”
“I’m not mocking. I definitely wouldn’t mock.” They reached her locker where she glimpsed Duncan and Meg being gushy across the hall. Rolling her eyes, she quickly turned to look away. “No offense, Wallace, but I just don’t get excited about anything involving school.”
“That’s sad.”
“Ha!”
They were interrupted when Vice Principle Clemmons placed his hand on her shoulder. “Veronica, come with me.”
Veronica smirked at Wallace and said overly peppy, “I love this school.”
--
“Oh, cookies,” Logan reached over and stole one from the spirit box. Taking a bite, he said, “Mm, is this a snicker doodle?” He looked pointedly at Veronica.
Wallace slapped the box shut. “Mine.”
Logan ignored him and asked Veronica. “How come you changed your locker?”
“I wanted to be closer to you and Wallace,” she responded.
“Veronica, are you stalking me?” he tensed.
“Oh no,” she gasped in mock shock. “You found me out.” She raised her voice so it was high and squealy, “I love you, Logan. I want to marry you and have your children.”
His response was to toss her over his shoulder and say, “Let’s go.”
She shrieked in surprise, giggling. “Put me down!”
Wallace was laughing, slumped against his locker.
And this is how Duncan and Meg found them when they walked down the hall.
Duncan’s first reaction was to frown at the sight of Logan and Veronica together. He covered it up quickly though and cheered Wallace on his basketball skills.
Meg smiled curiously at Logan and Veronica. She wondered why Veronica was willingly handing over Logan’s shoulder. She couldn’t contain her laughter when she realized what Veronica was doing.
The boys looked at her in question.
She shook her head, looking at Veronica. “Nothing.”
Noticing where her attention was, Logan looked over his shoulder at Veronica. “What are you doing back there?”
“Checking out your butt,” she answered without qualms.
“Veronica,” Wallace groaned in complaint. “I didn’t need to know that.”
“I’m just taking advantage of the situation.” Veronica patted his butt. “Put me down. The blood is rushing to my head.”
Complying, Logan set her on her feet. “Come on, let’s go eat lunch.”
Wallace shook his head, “Can’t. I said I was gonna eat with the guys.” He waved and left.
Duncan and Meg also made excuses and left, leaving Logan and Veronica alone.
She looked at him contrite. “Sorry, but I already have plans.”
“See if I ever invite you people to lunch ever again,” he muttered. “All right, abandon me. Go!”
--
Veronica hadn’t discovered anything yet from her infiltration of Pan High. Maybe she’d have better luck tomorrow.
On the way back to Neptune, she received another crank call. She was reaching her crank call quota. If she got one more, she would probably scream. She was seriously considering getting a new number.
--
“Can you tell me why you have a goat crapping nuggets in the back of your van?” Veronica asked, sneaking up on Wallace.
Wallace sighed, relenting. “We stole him from Pan.”
“I gathered. Why?”
“They stole our parrot,” he said petulantly.
She smiled wryly, “Well, good luck with that.”
“You’re not going to help me?”
“Nope,” she shook her head smiling. “I don’t think so.”
“Thanks. Thanks a lot.”
She waved and headed back toward the school for class.
“Ronnie.”
She stopped to see who was calling. A bland expression graced her face. “Dick.”
“Just the person I was looking for.” He slung an arm around her shoulder.
Shoving said arm away, she asked, “What do you want?”
“To invite you to Casa Casablancas for the post game party this Friday.” Dick smiled. “Logan will be there.”
“Yeah, I’ll have to get back to you.” She pulled away entirely to get away from him.
“Tell your buddy, Wallace, to come too.” Dick called after her.
She shuddered. “So creepy.” She really wasn’t comfortable being viewed as an 09er. Not anymore.
--
“Anything?” Meg asked
Veronica shook her head. “The guy’s concealed his identity. Gloves, mask, altered voice.”
Meg looked at Veronica. “So what’s going on between you and Logan?”
“Nice segue,” Veronica smirked.
Meg smiled, “Well?”
“Nothing. We’re friends.”
“That’s all?”
“For now.”
She raised an eyebrow. “So you expect there to be more?”
Veronica glared at her before sighing. “I don’t know.”
“Do you want there to be?”
“Maybe.”
“If it helps, you two look good together.” Meg commented, “And the way he looks at you…” she sighed. “I wish Duncan looked at me like that.”
“Like what?”
“Like I’m everything.”
--
Veronica hesitantly stepped into the gym to support Wallace. Solving her birdnapping case, she might as well sit back, relax and enjoy an exciting game of basketball. Looking around for a seat, she got several waves from the 09ers, one from Zeke, the Pan High team manager, and one from Meg, who was cheering.
Deciding that her safest bet was Meg, Veronica started toward her until she was stopped by an arm going around her waist. She was subsequently lifted over the bleachers on to a bench two rows up. “Caveman, much?” she said archly.
Logan said innocently, “I was saving you from the brainless masses. You could have been eaten alive down there.”
She peeked at his companions. “I think I’d rather brave the masses.”
He smirked, “They’re harmless.”
“They’re idiots.”
“Which makes them harmless.”
Dick nudged Logan. “That Pan dude is eyeing your girl.”
Sitting up straighter, Logan peered at number thirteen from the rival team. He narrowed his eyes when he found that the guy in question was in fact checking Veronica out. He watched Veronica wave at several members of the Pan team as well as Wallace as she sat watching the game. “You know those guys?”
“A little.”
“Really.”
“I met them this week.”
“How?”
“I visited Pan High.”
“Am I going to have to drag the story out of you?"
“I was looking for Polly.”
“So you did some undercover work.” Logan nodded his understanding.
“Exactly.”
“Do you want any refreshments?” Logan asked as he stood.
“Skist, please.” She watched him as he and Dick made their way down the stands.
The game was pretty one sided with Wallace making most of the baskets. She clapped and cheered for both teams until Logan returned with her drink, handing her a chocolate chip cookie along the way back to his seat.
“So are you coming to Dick’s after the game?” Logan asked.
“Maybe.”
“Why not?”
“I don’t particularly like 09er parties.”
Logan nodded. “Alright.”
She smirked at him. “What? You’re not going to try to convince me to go?”
“Do you want me to?” he looked at her from beneath his lashes.
They looked at each other, staring into each other’s eyes. Veronica glanced away first. “I’ll probably stop by. Wallace has never been to an 09er party before. I promised him I’d keep him safe.”
Logan smirked, “I think Wallace can take care of himself.”
“Tell that to him.”
--
Standing by the benches after the game was over, Veronica waited for Wallace to finish changing so that they could drive over to the victory party together.
She smiled as the Pan team approached her. “Hey, guys. Great game.”
Ritchie looked down with a smile on his face. “Yeah… for Neptune.”
“If they didn’t have Fennel, we could have totally beaten them,” Zeke said enthusiastically.”
“I’ll let him know you said that.” Veronica grinned.
“You know him?” Ritchie asked. “We saw you talking to him before the game.”
“He’s my best friend.”
“So I guess your name isn’t really Betty.”
She blushed, “Yeah, sorry about that. I was looking into some missing mascots.” She stuck her hand out, “I’m Veronica.”
“Nice to meet you, Veronica,” Ritchie smiled. “Anyway, the guys and I were wondering if you’d like to join us. Zeke’s treating us to dinner since he won that bet against us.”
“She has other plans,” Logan announced as he walked up to them, throwing a proprietary arm around her shoulders. “Ronnie, come on, we’re waiting for you.”
She looked up at Logan, surprised by his behavior. “I’m waiting for Wallace.”
Nodding, Logan looked over at the guys, “Who are your friends here?”
Veronica introduced them. She could feel the tension between the boys even as they shook hands. “Logan, why don’t you go ahead? I’m driving over to Dick’s anyway.”
“You’re not trying to get out of going, are you?” He frowned, “Don’t back out at the last minute.”
She rolled her eyes, smiling, “Just go. I’m sure Dick is lost without you.”
“If you don’t show up in an hour, I’m going to send everyone out looking for you,” Logan teased.
“You’re that determined to get me to this party?”
“I’ll tie you up and carry you if I have to.” He grinned and waved. “One hour.” He threw the Pan guys one last glare before he turned and walked away.
Ritchie looked at Veronica awkwardly. “Jealous boyfriend?”
She laughed, “Logan? No, we’re just friends.”
“Didn’t seem like it,” Zeke commented.
“I guess you won’t be going with us,” Ritchie sighed.
“Another time?”
“Deal. See you later… Veronica.”
The Pan guys waved by just as Wallace was coming out of the locker room.
“What took you so long?” Veronica teased. “Were you experiencing a girl moment? Had to get your hair just right?”
“No,” he grinned. “Coach just wanted to give us a pep talk.” He clapped his hands together. “So, are you ready to party?”
--
Veronica was lounging back on the couch when Logan found her.
“Where’s Wallace?”
“Exchanging war stories with the guys.”
He handed her a new drink before slumping down beside her. Seeing her sniff the drink, he smiled. “Don’t worry. It came straight from the bottle. I made it for you myself.”
She sipped it cautiously, then smiled, “Strawberry daiquiri, extra virgin.”
“Just the way you like it.”
Veronica leaned back against him. “So what’s with you and your new penchant for invading my personal space?”
“I’m not allowed?” he asked coyly. “And I thought you liked it.” He played with the tips of her hair, winding the growing strands around his finger.
She turned into him. “What was with you earlier?”
“When you were with those Pan jocks?” he grumbled. “Nothing.”
“Were you jealous?”
“I can’t very well let some guy from Pan steal you.”
“So this is a Pan/Neptune rivalry thing.” She crossed her arms and leaned back against the couch.
“No,” he took her hand. “This is me being a jealous asshole thing. I didn’t like the way that Ritchie guy kept looking at you.”
“He was just being nice.”
“He likes you.”
“He’s just a friend.”
“That’s what you said about me.” Logan studied her.
“You are my friend.”
“You’re more than a friend to me.”
“Really?” she looked up at him.
“I want you to be.”
She looked at his honest, open expression and knew that he wanted the same thing that she did. Taking the initiative, Veronica reached up and kissed him.
The second their lips touched, his hands rose to cup her head, holding her close. Logan deepened their kiss, savoring the moment where she was finally his.
Logan focused all his energy on learning all her responses - what she liked, what made her gasp, what made her whimper. His exploration was only interrupted when she pulled away after someone shouted “Get a room!”
He looked up at her, now straddling his lap, her cheeks flushed and her chest rising up and down as she caught her breath. Logan stole one more quick kiss before she fell back with a wide grin spreading across his face. He held her firmly against him, preventing her from climbing off his lap. “Where do you think you’re going?”
Wrapping her arms around his neck, she smiled, “Nowhere.”
“Maybe we should move this to a more private venue,” he suggested.
Veronica kissed him gently on the lips. “I’d like that.”
--
The End