Impulsive 1 & 2
Title: Impulsive 1 - 2
Author: Tigereyes320
Pairing/Character: Logan/Veronica Other character mentions
Word Count:??
Rating: R for Language, and sexual situations
Summary: This was started before 2X22 but everything gets in there.
Spoilers: None for season 3
Author's Note: I own nothing of the VM universe.
Chapter 1
Veronica looked around at all her classmates having fun at the Neptune Grand. She told herself she wasn’t looking for him, but she couldn’t quite convince herself of that. They had graduated. She felt the need to do something, but wasn’t sure what it was.
Wallace came by and so did Mac and Cassidy. She saw a familiar figure come her way and smiled.
Logan came and sat down sprawling his 5’11” frame in a chair. “So is this the end of our era?”
“Don’t you want it to be?”
“No. I don’t ever want to be finished with you.”
“Logan do you want to try again?”
“Try what again?”
“Try us again. I understand if you don’t.”
“Is this because Duncan’s gone?”
“Yes and no. You and I are always saving each other. But, the other night.”
“What about it?”
“I never would have forgiven myself, if you had died.”
“Actually your exact words were ‘Logan, if you die on me I’m going to kill you’”
“You paid attention.”
“I didn’t want you mad at me.”
“You like it when I’m mad at you.”
“Not as much as I like it when you kiss me.”
“So you want me to kiss you?” Veronica asked as she leaned closer to him.
“I always want you to kiss me.” Logan said leaning toward her.
“Am I interrupting something?” Weevil asked smiling as the two of them jumped back to their former positions.
“Not at all Weevil. Congrats on graduating.”
“Yeah thanks, my grandmother was really pleased. Rich boy, you and I need to talk.”
“I’m being summoned. Be back soon.”
Logan followed Weevil out of the ballroom and down a corridor.
“Are we going somewhere special?”
“Do you know how lucky you are?”
“In what sense?”
“That girl still loves you. Are you going to screw it up again?”
“I’m going to try really hard not to.”
“Vee has been good to me, when she didn’t have to be. You treat her right this time or I’m going to have to hurt you.”
“Why are you telling me this?”
“A few of her friends and I have decided we want her happy, and it appears that it’s only going to happen with you. So we are going to assist you in getting her alone. What happens after that we don’t want the details.” Weevil said as he handed Logan a plastic card.
“A room card?”
“Room 700 get your ass up there. We’ll get Veronica up there in the next fifteen minutes. If you hurt her again.”
“I’ll let you kick the crap out of me, after Veronica gets through with me.”
“You better make this one count.”
I plan too.
Wallace and Mac are going to get her up there; you’d better be waiting.
“Hey Weevil, here.” Logan hands Weevil an envelope.
“What?”
“The house is yours. In there is also a check for your grandmother. She was always nice to my mom and me. Please take it.”
“Okay. Now get your ass up to that room.”
“Yes sir.”
Meanwhile Wallace had come to sit by Veronica. He was still down in the dumps because Jackie had left earlier then planned.
“Here.”
“What is this?”
“It’s Jackie’s address and a roundtrip ticket. Go and spend a few days with her and say Goodbye like you were meant to.”
“Is that what you are going to do?”
“What do you mean?”
“Logan. You know you aren’t over him. If you were completely honest with yourself you’d admit that you never were.”
“It would never work.”
“Did you really give it a chance?”
“Wallace”
“Here.”
“What is this?”
“It’s a room key for here at the hotel.”
“What?”
“Room 700; Mac has made sure no one will find you two. Your Dad, who has caught Woody, chooses to believe you are spending the night at Mac’s.”
“Wallace I can’t”
“You can and you want to.”
“You know the best decision I ever made was cutting you down off that pole. You’ve been a real good friend to me.”
“Back at you Superfly. Now go and get your man. By the way I better get to be godfather to any kids.”
Veronica got up before she could change her mind and almost ran out of the ballroom. She got to the elevator and pushed the number seven button. When the elevators opened again she followed the arrows to room 700.
She stood outside the door, before she made up her mind and pushed the key into the lock. When the light turned green, she twisted the handle and opened the door. She walked in and shut the door behind her.
Logan watched her walk in and caught her eyes. Veronica walked toward him, slowly unbuttoning the black sweater she had worn at the Sadie Hawkins dance. She took it off and dropped in on the chair that held his jacket and tie. They never broke eye contact. She took his face in her hands and brought his lips down to hers.
The minute their lips touched it was like a dam had burst inside both of them. Logan wrapped his arms around her and lifted her against him, while Veronica wrapped her legs around his waist.
He tore his lips from hers and grinned at her. “I guess not much has changed.”
“Not on this level.”
“How long can you stay?” Logan asked as he sat them on the bed.
“My Dad is choosing to believe I’m spending the night at Mac’s.”
Logan’s cell phone rang before he could respond. He picked it up and when he saw it was Wallace.
“Yeah Wallace, she’s here. Okay. Thanks. I’ll tell her. See you tomorrow.”
“Do I want to know what that was about?”
“Wallace said they packed each of us a change of clothes and they are in the closet.”
“Is that all he said?”
Logan turned an interesting shade of pink. “No.”
“What else did he say?”
“Other Provisions we might need are in the night table.”
Veronica’s eyebrows rose and she climbed off his lap to check out the situation. “Wow, they must think either we are really horny or we are going to go at each other like energizer bunnies.”
“Why?”
“Because there are three twelve packs of condoms in there.” Veronica said as she crawled across the bed and straddled his hips again. She quickly began kissing Logan’s neck.
“Veronica! Wait!”
“Why?”
“I didn’t come here just for us to have sex?”
“You didn’t?”
“No-well-Yes. Listen I want you so badly but I want us more. I don’t want a one-night thing. I’m serious about an us. Even if it means me driving to Pal Alto every other weekend to see you at Stanford.”
“What about your schooling?”
“I’ll make sure my weekends are entirely free.”
“You don’t want me to visit you.”
“Only if you let me get you a credit card on my account and you charge the gas to me. I don’t want you spending all of your money coming to see me.”
“You really would do that wouldn’t you?”
“Of course I would.”
“You won’t have to.”
“Why?”
“I won’t be going to Stanford.”
“Why not?”
“I wasn’t number one so I won’t be winning the Kane scholarship. I never took my last final. I wanted to know the verdict.”
“I’m sorry babe. I know you wanted Stanford. So where are you going?”
“Hearst. Logan less talking, more kissing.”
Chapter 2
Logan knew how to pay attention and was busy working on Veronica’s neck when her cell phone went off.
She glanced at the caller ID and answered. “Wallace I’m a little busy here.”
“Veronica this is important.”
“What is it?”
“Woody’s baseball team.”
“What about it?”
“Did you know Cassidy Casablancas was on it?”
All the pieces fell into place at once. “Wallace call my dad with this info. I have to find Mac she’s with him.” Veronica said as she climbed off of Logan’s lap and hung up the phone. She opened the closet door found her bag and unzipped it. ‘Thank God Wallace had packed her jeans.’ She stripped off her dress forgetting entirely that Logan was watching her. She hopped into her jeans and shirt. “Logan?”
“Right here.”
“I need you to find Cassidy. There is going to be trouble.”
“What? Why?”
“I can’t explain right now. Just find him. I’ll call or text you if I find him.” Veronica said as she ran out of the room.
Logan followed her. Thirty minutes later he still hadn’t found him. He went up to the penthouse to grab something from the mini-bar, when his phone went off. There was a text message; ‘Meet me on the roof now’ it didn’t say it was from Veronica, but in his gut that was who he knew sent it. He ran out of the penthouse and got to the stairs. He got on the roof and he couldn’t believe what he was seeing. Beaver had a gun trained on Veronica.
“No”
Beaver turned toward him leveled the gun and took his first shot. Logan dove behind the light on the roof. He popped his head up and Beaver took another shot at him. Veronica attacked him from behind after a quick scuffle he threw her off of him. Logan took his chance and grabbed him from behind trying to get him in a wresting hold. Beaver shot him with the taser. All of a sudden a shot rang out. Logan looked up and saw Veronica holding a gun on both of them.
“Logan step away from him.”
“Veronica don’t”
“He killed my father!”
“Give me the gun, Veronica.”
“He killed everyone on the bus! He raped me!”
“You are not a killer, Veronica. Give me the gun. You're not a killer, Veronica. Give me the gun.”
“Beaver, don't!”
“My name is Cassidy!”
“Cassidy, don't.”
“Why not? That's what I thought.”
Logan watched as Veronica comforted Mac. He gave Mac his key to the penthouse and told her to stay there tonight. A quick call to the concierge had them finding her clothes in a laundry chute. The assured Logan they would have the clothes laundered and brought up to his guest as soon as possible. Logan told Mac to go to sleep and they would deal with this in the morning, he had to get Veronica home.
Veronica was almost catatonic by the time Logan got her home. He sat on the couch with her and listened to her sob as if her heart was breaking. It broke his heart to know there was absolutely nothing he could do to ease her pain. Finally she went limp; exhaustion had simply taken over her body. He stayed with her on the couch like that for a few minutes and finally picked her up and carried her to her room. He removed her shoes and tucked her in.
There was no way he could leave her to face this alone. He lay back on the couch getting as comfortable as the smallish couch allowed him to get. Closed his eyes and wished Veronica didn’t have to wake up tomorrow to a world her beloved father was no longer in. All he could do was be there by her side. Logan fell asleep himself a few minutes later.
Logan opened his eyes and for a moment couldn’t remember why he was so uncomfortable. He recognized Veronica’s living room, and memories of last night came flooding back. He got up and splashed some water on his face. Veronica probably was not going to want eat, but he’d make her favorite and maybe he could tempt her into eating something.
He started the bacon frying in the pan. All of a sudden Veronica ran out of her room calling “Dad?” The minute she saw him she realized her father was gone. Logan came to her putting his arms around her to comfort her.
When her Dad came out a few seconds later, all Veronica cared about was that he was alive. Logan left to give them some time alone and allow Veronica to explain things to her father.
“Logan wait!” Logan turned as he heard Veronica’s voice behind him. “Where are you going?”
“You and your dad will want some time alone.”
“Logan please stay.”
“Veronica.”
“I couldn’t have gotten through last night without you. Besides, running away is my thing. I want you to stay.”
“Why?”
“Because I need you. Please?”
“Are you going to tell him everything?”
“Yes.”
“He isn’t going to want me there Veronica; not after what I did. I could forgive myself for Shelley’s party when I thought it had been Duncan, but to know that because of me Bea-Cassidy raped you.”
“Cassidy raped me because of what happened to him. I don’t blame you for what happened that night. I know no matter how much you hated me at that time; you never would have allowed me to be raped. Body shots yeah but not rape.”
“Your father isn’t going to see it like that.”
“Logan we talked about getting back together. To do that we have to be honest with him and ourselves. He won’t like but it’ll be easier for him to hear it from us then it popping up sometime in the future. Come back inside. Please.” Veronica said as she held out her hand to him.
Logan took her hand and allowed her to lead him back into the apartment.
Keith was cooking the bacon Logan had started. He looked at the two of them; Logan had never been his first choice for his daughter. However, Keith had seen how he was holding her when they thought he was gone. Saw that Logan hadn’t left Veronica to deal with this on her own. If he was honest with himself, he knew that these two had what a lot of people wanted, including himself. They were in for a bumpy ride, he hoped they would both hang on and make it this time.
“So are you two together again?”
“We’re thinking about it Dad. I need to tell you about something that happened to me.” Veronica said gripping Logan’s hand tightly.
Logan watched her father face as Veronica explained not only about Cassidy, Woody, and the bus crash. Logan heard her tell her father about what happened on the roof and everything else that happened last night. She told about the night of Shelley’s party, everything that happened, and Logan’s part in it. Keith’s face when Veronica told him she had been raped was a sight Logan never hoped to see again.
“I know you’re pissed at me Mr. Mars but I really would like to say something.” Logan said carefully.
“Go ahead Logan.” Keith said trying to reign in his temper as he thought about it. His baby girl, his sweet baby girl had been raped.
“I’ve been messed up for awhile. I took all my anger about Lilly’s death out on Veronica. I know it wasn’t right. When Veronica first told me about what happened to her, I wanted to be sick. It was the first time I realized that my actions could have serious consequences for someone other then me. That fact didn’t keep me from doing some more stupid stuff, but I did learn that. If I could take back that night I would. I was mad at her and at you, but I never would have allowed her to be hurt like that. I wouldn’t have let that happen to any woman. I want to see Veronica. I want to start again. Veronica said for us to start over again; we had to tell you everything. I know that it’s going to take a long time for you to trust me with her after everything I’ve done. You may never be able to trust me, and I can deal with that. I’m going to fight for her, for us. I can’t lose her from my life.”
Keith wanted to yell at Logan, at Veronica even for not telling him earlier. He saw Veronica take Logan’s hand in hers and hold it tightly. How could he punish a boy who had already been punished so much? Logan would never completely forgive himself for what happened to Veronica that night; but Veronica had. Keith could see it; she had already forgiven him his part in that horrible night. While Logan hadn’t saved her that night, he had saved his baby girl last night. Logan had obviously grown up this past year if he was willing to face a father’s rage. “Logan?”
Logan visible steeled himself for what was to happen next. “Yeah?”
“I’m not happy with the part you played in what happened; but I’m going to forgive you for it. One, because think you would take it back if you could; two, Veronica has forgiven you for your part in it; and three, because last night when she really needed you, you came through. So we are going forward with a clean slate. Anything else I should know about?”
“Do I have to tell you who I was dumb enough to sleep with when we weren’t together?” Logan asked.
“No, but If I ever need to ask you that, I’m demanding an honest answer. What about you honey?”
“Oh, I already know who he was dumb enough to sleep with. He knows better now.”
“That wasn’t what I meant. Then lets eat. Honey why don’t you turn on the TV so we can see what the news is saying about everything.”
“Sure. After breakfast I get first dibs on the shower.” Veronica said as she bit into a slice of bacon.
“I’ll shower at the hotel as I don’t have anything to wear.”
“Actually I think I still have some of your stuff here. I’ll check after my shower.”
The Neptune Grand was surrounded last night, due to the suicide of Cassidy Casablancas, and the wreckage of Mayor Woody Goodman’s plane. We have found out that another crime was committed last night also at the Neptune Grand. The body of Aaron Echolls, recently found not guilty for the murder of Lillian Kane, was found in his room with two gunshots to the head. His son, Logan Echolls, could not be reached for comment.
“Logan?”
“It’s over, he’s dead.”
“Are you okay?”
“I don’t know.”
No sooner were the words out of his mouth then there was a knock on the door. Veronica went to open the door. Deputy Sacks was there.
“Is this déjà vu?”
“Is Logan here?”
“Deputy, he just found his father was killed.”
“I know, Lamb wants me to bring him in for questioning.” Deputy Sacks said as he stepped inside the apartment.
“What? He was here all night with me.”
“It’s voluntary, Veronica. You know Lamb, he’d like nothing better then to drag Logan in to the station in front of all the cameras.”
“Well he isn’t going.”
“Yes he is.” Logan spoke up after watching Veronica argue with the detective.
“Logan can anyone beside Veronica vouch you were here last night?”
“I can. I came in around two o’clock this morning. I saw Logan’s car outside. When I went in to check on Veronica, she and Logan were asleep on her bed. If Lamb would like I’d be more then happy to repeat that in an official statement.”
Veronica’s eyes widened, and she Logan exchanged a glance as her father lied to the deputy. “See I told you he was here.”
“Veronica it’s okay I’ll go down to the station.”
“No, we’ll go down to the station after we’re done eating and we’ve gotten dressed for the day. Tell Lamb we’ll be in his office with two hours. He’d better be expecting all three of us.”
“You heard my daughter. We’ll be there in a couple of hours.”
Deputy Sacks nodded and left the apartment, closing the door behind him.
“Veronica.”
“You’re not doing this alone. We’re in this together. You have been by my side since I sent that text message. You got there within three minutes. Lamb is not going to even attempt to pin this on you.” Veronica said as she out her arms around him. “Dad why did you lie? Logan wasn’t in my bed.”
“Lamb doesn’t need to know that. I know Logan didn’t do this. I’m going to grab the shower first. Why don’t you see if you have something else for Logan to wear; then you guys can get cleaned up.” Keith said as he left the kitchen.
“He was a monster Veronica.”
“He was a man who couldn’t, or wouldn’t control his own demons. He was good at one time though.”
“How do you know?”
“Your mom wouldn’t have loved him otherwise; and since you here because of him, I can be sorry that he didn’t value what he could have had with you. C’mon lets go find you something to wear.”
Logan followed her into her bedroom and watched as she pulled a box from underneath her bed. “You’ve had this stuff all this time?”
“Well after I broke up with you I was doing laundry and realized I still had some of your stuff. I meant to give it back to you but then . . .”
“I get it. There is also one really good thing about this.”
“What’s that?”
“I get the money with no strings. I can go house hunting now.”
“Logan.”
“No death wish here babe. I will be a good boy.”
“Well don’t be too good. I like those bad boys.”
“You do Veronica? You like the bad boys?” He sat on her bed and pulled her toward him until she straddled his lap.”
“I like the redeemable bad boys; especially the ones that are tall, lanky, and have deep brown eyes. More specifically the one who comes to my rescue, and holds me tight when my world falls apart.” Veronica said as she put her arms around Logan’s neck and kissed him softly.
They sat there for long moments just kissing.
When they broke apart, Logan smiled and said, “That’s good because who does it for me, is short, pesky, annoying blondes with big blue eyes. Specifically the one who helped me when she didn’t have to, who didn’t tell the whole school when I broke down, and who saves my ass when she really wants to kick it.”
“Actually I wanted to kick it more after you started your thing with Kendall.”
“I wish I could tell you it was all sex, but a small part of it was getting back at you. It hurt when you broke up with me.”
“I’m sorry, it wasn’t that I didn’t have feelings for you. I did, but you were scaring me. I wanted normal. I wanted to be who I was before Lilly died, and part of that was being with Duncan. He was safe. I didn’t stay like that. I realized I couldn’t go back to being that person. I had to accept that this is who I am and I need to be with someone who likes me just as I am; who likes the me I’ve become. Can you imagine the old Veronica ever making out with you in your car, or in the girls’ bathroom? Going on stakeouts, solving crimes?”
“Becoming a card shark. No, I can’t imagine it. I also can’t imagine having to rescue the old Veronica from a crooked undercover ATF agent, and kissing her outside the Camelot Hotel.”
“You’ve changed too.”
“Not entirely for the better, but I’m going to get there.”
“Shower is free!” They smiled at the sound of Keith’s voice.
“You go ahead Logan.” Veronica said as she climbed off of his lap.
“Okay,” said Logan as he grabbed some things out of the box and headed toward the shower.
Veronica took a deep breath and went to her own closet to pick out some clothes to wear to confront Lamb. Lamb was not going to be a happy camper. She told both Logan and her dad that she tried to report the rape and what Lamb had said. Neither had said anything but she had seen both of them tighten their fists. He also wasn’t going to be happy Logan had an alibi. Veronica lost track of time as she imagined what she’d really like to say to Lamb.
“Veronica!”
“Yeah Dad?”
“Logan’s out of the shower, and getting dressed in my room. Hurry up so we can get going.”
“You two better not have used all the hot water.” Veronica called out as she took her clothes in the bathroom with her.
Less then thirty minutes later they were walking out. Keith got into to his rental car and Veronica and Logan got into his Xterra. She had to her car was still at the Neptune Grand.
Keith beats them to the Sheriff’s office by a few seconds. “Hello Inga.” He says as he walks into Lamb’s office. Keith takes Lamb by the shirt and throws him against the wall. Veronica and Logan hearing the noise rush into Lamb’s office.
“Dad! Put him down.”
Keith doesn’t listen. “A young woman comes to you telling you she has been raped, and you blow her off.”
“I never did any such thing.”
“Did not my daughter come into this office two and a half years ago and make that same statement? So other girls are believed but not my daughter? Not my baby girl!”
“Daddy, he’s not worth it.”
Keith drops Lamb as quickly as he had grabbed him causing him to fall rather painfully on his butt. “I ever hear of you doing anything like that again, I’ll have you recalled so fast your head will spin for a year. I hear my daughter solved another one of your crimes for you.”
“I hear you covering for murderers these days.”
“What covering?”
“Mr. Logan Echolls. Lying for your daughter’s ex-boyfriend. That’s not like you Keith.”
Keith held up a hand before Logan or Veronica could speak.
“Do you have a possible time of death for Aaron? I also want to know if you know exactly when Woody’s plane exploded. Also do you have a time of death for the Casablancas boy.”
“Woody’s plane exploded at approximately 8:18 p.m. The Casablancas kid took a dive off the building less then 10 minutes later. Aaron died sometime between eight and nine p.m.”
“How could Logan have been killing his father if he was on the roof rescuing my daughter from Cassidy Casablancas at the same time.”
“What?”
“Logan show him your phone.” Keith pointed out to Lamb the time of the text message. My daughter sent this message to Logan less then a minute after Woody’s plane blew up. Logan who was in the penthouse when he got the message was on the roof only a few minutes later trying to rescue Veronica. There is no way Logan had time to kill his father and still be up on the roof a few minutes later to rescue my daughter.”
“Why would she call her ex? Why not call you?”
“Because as far as she knew I was on the plane that she had just seen blown up. She knew Logan would come help her. I guess Veronica knew from experience what kind of help she would get from you.”
“Why would the Casablancas do this?”
“Because-“
“Dad wait! I think Dick should be here to hear all this.”
“The brother is in the tank sleeping it off.” Lamb said with a dismissive wave of his hand.
“Get him in here.” Keith demanded. Lamb called for Dick to be brought up.
Logan sat down in one of Lamb’s chairs and pulled Veronica onto his lap. He raised eyebrow to Lamb daring him to say a word.
Lamb didn’t take the warning. “You do know she has an STD right?”
“Which she got from the night she was raped. She came to you for help and you blew her off. I’m telling you right now if anything is wrong with Veronica’s chances of having children because of this, I will personally name you in the lawsuit and the Sheriff’s department for the inadequacy of training and upholding the law.” Keith said between his teeth.
Veronica and Logan exchanged a look, they hadn’t even thought that far ahead. “Don’t worry. We’ll get you seen by a specialist. My father owes you that much.” Logan whispered softly in her ear. Veronica acknowledged what was said by a nod.
Dick came in followed by a detective. Veronica had never seen him so lost. “It’s true isn’t it? Bea-Cassidy’s dead?”
Keith leaned against Lamb’s desk, “I’m sorry son, but yes he’s gone.”
“Why?”
Keith explained to Dick everything that had happened, from the molestation to his rooftop encounter with Veronica and Logan.
“You mean Woody, Gia’s Dad, did that-“ Dick couldn’t finish as his stomach rebelled and he lost what was left in it. Keith had grabbed Lamb’s garbage can just in case. When he was only dry heaving, he spoke again, “He did this to my brother when he was just a kid, no one would have blamed him, if the truth had come out, right?”
“Dick he couldn’t handle the thought of everyone knowing what had happened to him. That’s why he caused the bus crash, and how everything spiraled out of control from there. I’m so sorry. Cassidy did some horrible things, but he was just a terrified kid underneath.” Veronica said softly.
“Did he say anything before he jumped? Did he blame me for not protecting him?”
Logan spoke up, “No man, he didn’t blame you. The last thing he said was tell Dick this isn’t his fault.”
Veronica quickly substantiated his lie. “Dick it was not about you, Cassidy just couldn’t take the pain and he let it out in all the wrong ways. He looked up to you, you were his big brother.”
“He didn’t do anything else did he?” Dick asked. He saw a shadow cross Veronica’s face. “What else did he do Veronica?”
“Dick it isn’t important, it’s in the past.” Veronica said truly not wanting to add to Dick’s pain. Dick was an ass at times but Cassidy was still his brother.
“I want to know.”
“No you don’t man. If Veronica says let it go, let it go.” Logan said.
“I have to know. Veronica tell me what else Cassidy did.”
“The night of Shelley Pomeroy’s party, someone laced my drink with GHB. When you left me in the guestroom with Cassidy. He-“
“He what?”
“He raped me Dick. When the Mayor molested Cassidy he gave Cassidy chlamydia. When he raped me he passed the chlamydia to me. That was how I figured out it was Cassidy who was behind all of it.”
“I egged him on. I told him to take advantage of you. I left him in that room with you. You weren’t one of us anymore. You didn’t matter. What happened to you was my fault.”
“You didn’t give me the GHB Dick. I was the one who just grabbed a drink I was handed. I don’t hate your brother Dick. I hate what he did. He was just a messed up kid, who did something wrong. When he thought the world as he knew it would end he took drastic measures, and then had to do more drastic stuff to cover it up. The only thing I hated him for was I thought he had killed my father. He was supposed to have been on the plane with Woody.”
“What do I do now?”
“You bury Cassidy and mourn the loss of your little brother.”
“What is everyone going to be told?”
“Dick the truth needs to come out about the bus crash, and the molestation. People need to know what Woody did, so they can get their kids the help they need.”
“What about the rape?”
“That information never leaves this room.”
“That girl Bea-Cassidy was with last night, Mac, is she okay?”
“She will be.”
“The money in Cassidy’s trust reverts to me if he dies before he is eighteen. I’d like to give that money to the families of those that were killed on the bus. Divide it equally between them and Veronica.” Dick said feeling very old. It was the right thing to do.
“Dick I don’t want any money.”
“I want you to have it. You were almost on that bus. Correction you were on the bus, it was a fluke you got off.”
“Dick, I have a better idea, take the money you were going to give me and do something in Cassidy’s name. Build an abuse shelter, so this doesn’t happen to anyone else’s kids. A place that if a child is hurt like that he has a place that they can get help confidentially. I’ll help so will Logan and Mac. We won’t hide the truth, we’ll tell it and make sure no child thinks the only way to protect themselves is by hurting someone else. If you need help with anything let me know.”
“Why are you doing this Veronica?”
“Because I want to remember the Cassidy that held Mac’s hand; the Cassidy that had a really sweet smile. I don’t hate him Dick I just hate what happened to him and what he did because of that.”
“Do we need to identify the bodies for forms sake?” Logan asked Lamb.
“What bodies? Two people died?” Dick asked really confused.
“My father was shot and killed last night.” Logan said.
“I don’t know what to do next?” Dick said feeling lost.
“Why don’t I help you get the paperwork started, son.” Keith offered.
“I’ll go down with you to the morgue.” Logan said firmly.
“I could make arrangements with the funeral home.”
“Veronica you don’t have to wait here.” Logan said.
“Yes I do. I’ll give my statement to Lamb here; while you three go down to the morgue. Then, while you and Dad are giving your statements I’ll call the funeral home and make an appointment for Dick. If you want to avoid the media circus you’ll want to bury Cassidy right away.”
“Veronica, you really don’t have to.”
“None of us saw the pain he was in until it was too late. I’m going to help you bury the boy I thought I knew and who at one time was very nice to me. I don’t think Kendall is going to be much help. Dick do you want me to call your mother so she can be here for you?”
“No, she’s not going to handle this well. It’ll be better if I call her after the arrangements are made.” Dick said as he gave her a look.”
Veronica made a silent plea to her father.
“Lamb, why don’t we go get the paperwork so Veronica can make her statement.”
“Ok Dick, its just us. What do you need me to do?”
“I need to contact my father and tell him. I know he did awful things but he should be there.”
“Tell me what you need me to do.”
Dick took a pen off of Lamb’s desk and reached for Veronica’s arm. After pulling up the shirtsleeve wrote a phone number and a few names on her arm. He pulled her sleeve down. “That should get you started. I don’t care if he’s prosecuted. I don’t want him to hear about Cassidy like that.”
“I’ll get right on it.”
Dick stood up and looked so defeated. Veronica couldn’t help but get to her feet and give him a hug. “I’m so sorry, Dick.”
“Me too.”
Logan rose and kissed Veronica on the cheek.
“I’m not going anywhere without you.”
“You two back together?”
Logan answered, “We don’t know.”
“We’re working it out.” Veronica said as Lamb came back in.
“Come on boys. Let’s get the paperwork started so we can go to the morgue. Veronica we’ll be back soon.”
Veronica nodded as she sat down and told Lamb everything that she had learned.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Several hours later Veronica, Logan, and Dick were at the presidential suite. Dick had gone into Duncan’s old room and fallen asleep. Veronica and Logan were on the sofa watching some movie on the television. They talked in soft whispers.
“How are you doing?”
Logan shrugged, “Just call me Little Orphan Annie.”
“Logan.”
“I think I’m okay. He can’t hurt me anymore. More importantly he can’t hurt you anymore. Thanks by the way.”
“For what?”
“Going along with me for Dick.”
“He deserved that much peace. I don’t think Cassidy would have hurt you.”
“I know he wouldn’t. Cassidy was a crack shot. If he had wanted me dead I’d have been dead with the first shot. He didn’t want the secret out, but I think he was tired of all the lies and cover-ups.”
“I think so too.”
“So now for the question I really want to ask. Are we going to try again?”
“I’d like to. We still have some things to talk about from everything that happened this year. I realized something last night and it was confirmed today. You wouldn’t have treated me like Duncan did. If a former girlfriend of yours had gotten pregnant and you knew it was yours; you wouldn’t have kept it from me to discover on my own. You would have told me and risked the fight we probably would have had. You are who you are and if I want this I have to take you as you are, not try to change you. I also realized I’ll never be the Veronica I was when Lilly was alive. I’ve changed and normal is what you make it. It will be what we make it.”
“That is very profound.”
“Says the guy who has an inspirational message everyday on his voice mail.”
“Well everyone has to have a hobby. You okay?”
“I’m just really tired. I don’t feel like I slept much last night.”
“If you’re tired you can go crash on my bed for awhile.”
Veronica craned her head toward his bedroom and turned back to look at him. “Am I crashing alone? I doubt you very comfortable on my couch.”
“That is true. Do think your dad would let me buy you guys a longer sofa, so that when I crash on it my legs don’t fall off the edge.”
“We might be able to talk him into it. You didn’t answer my question. Am I napping alone?”
“You sure you want me there?”
“Logan the only thing that got me through last night was you. We’re just sleeping, nothing else yet.”
Logan stood up and held out his hand. Veronica put her hand in his and followed him to his room. They didn’t bother to shut the door as they only planned on sleeping. Logan sat on the bed and removed his shoes; he lay down on the bed and closed his eyes. Veronica removed her shoes and hoodie and climbed up beside him like she did when she thought he had been Duncan that one time. Logan put his arms around her and held her close. Veronica closed her eyes and the last thing she heard before falling asleep was the beat of Logan’s heart.
When she woke up later it was dark outside and she was in bed alone, covered by a blanket. Veronica sat up and tried to clear her head. She got off the bed and went into the living area of the suite. It was dark there too. She went to what had been Duncan’s bedroom and saw the bed was empty. Veronica couldn’t figure out if she was sad Logan had left without a word or not. When she went to get her shoes she saw a note with her name on it by the bedside table.
Veronica,
Dick and I had to run some errands and stuff. We’ll pick up dinner and be back by seven.
If you won’t be there when I get back call my cell. I want to hope you waking up next to
Me wasn’t a dream. I’ll see you soon
Logan
Veronica picked up her cell. “Hi Dad. I’m still at Logan’s. No he isn’t here he went with Dick to run a few errands he is supposed to be back here within the hour. I’m going to stay here tonight. Dad, I am eighteen and I am letting you know where I am. By the way, Logan wants to know if he can buy us a couch. He says ours is to short for when he has to crash on it. I just wanted to let you know I won’t be home tonight. I’m going by the apartment to pick some stuff up and I will see you tomorrow morning. I don’t know if Dick is staying here tonight or not, but probably. Yes I’ll have my cell on and I’ll check in later. I love you too Dad. By the way are you going to be this bad if I ever decide to get married? Bye.”
Veronica looked at her watch and decided against leaving Logan a note. She picked up and dialed his phone number.
She was surprised when she heard Dick’s voice answering. “Hello Veronica. Logan, your girlfriend woke up and is on the phone. Veronica he is about to finish something. Can you call back a bit later?”
“How about I tell you and you give him the message?”
“I can do that.”
“Tell Logan I had to run a couple of errands and I will meet you guys back at the suite in time for dinner, okay?”
“Got it. You’re running errands and will meet us back at the suite. Logan said it was okay if I stayed for a few days. Is that okay with you? I don’t want to ruin the reunion.”
“That’s fine. Logan and I aren’t ready to jump that far into whatever we are. My dad and I are leaving for New York on Tuesday. We’ll be gone a week.”
“I’m burying my brother tomorrow.”
“Is it okay if I come with Logan to the service?”
“Yeah. Do you think I should let that Mac girl know?”
“I’ll call her and see if she wants to come. I’ll see you back here for dinner. Please don’t forget to give Logan the message.”
“I won’t forget. Later, Veronica.”
Veronica hung up the phone and called Mac, when her voice mail came on. Veronica left a message with the information. Offering to pick Mac up if she wanted to go. Veronica grabbed her bag and left the room.
Less then an hour later Veronica was back at the suite. When she opened the door, she saw Logan and Dick were playing GTA. Shaking her head, “You two better not have eaten all the food.”
Logan glanced up at her while playing non-stop, “Risk life and limb by not having enough food for my girl. You must think I have a death wish. Food’s over there. I’m almost done kicking Dick’s ass.”
“Keep thinking that dude. I’m so wiping the floor with your ass.”
“Male bonding at it’s best. Dick, when is the service tomorrow?”
“Ten o’clock. My mom is flying in late tonight. I picked some more clothes up for me.”
“I’ll let Mac know, she said she wants to go. I’ll pick her up in the morning.”
“Is-Is she doing okay?”
“As best as can be expected.”
“Cassidy didn’t hurt her too did he?”
“He broke her heart Dick. It takes time to get over that.”
Dick paused the video game. “My mom is going to have someone pack up Be-Cassidy’s room. I was going to go home after the service and see if there was anything I wanted of his. Do you think Mac would want anything of his?”
“I’ll ask her. Dick I found your Dad, I hope you don’t mind but I told him about everything. He can’t get a flight out for tomorrow. I put him in contact with my Dad. He’ll help him come home to say good-bye.”
“He’ll be arrested.”
“Dad and I agreed he should be able to say goodbye to his son. It may not be right, but we’re doing it. We’re giving him 24 hours to come in see you, and say goodbye to his son. If he stays in town beyond that, dad is going to turn him in okay?”
“That’s fair.”
“I’m going to call Mac and then come over there and kick both your asses.”
“Okay babe.”
Logan and Dick got back to playing their game.
“Hey Logan?”
“Yeah.”
“She’s a keeper.”
“I know.”
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Author: Tigereyes320
Pairing/Character: Logan/Veronica Other character mentions
Word Count:??
Rating: R for Language, and sexual situations
Summary: This was started before 2X22 but everything gets in there.
Spoilers: None for season 3
Author's Note: I own nothing of the VM universe.
Chapter 1
Veronica looked around at all her classmates having fun at the Neptune Grand. She told herself she wasn’t looking for him, but she couldn’t quite convince herself of that. They had graduated. She felt the need to do something, but wasn’t sure what it was.
Wallace came by and so did Mac and Cassidy. She saw a familiar figure come her way and smiled.
Logan came and sat down sprawling his 5’11” frame in a chair. “So is this the end of our era?”
“Don’t you want it to be?”
“No. I don’t ever want to be finished with you.”
“Logan do you want to try again?”
“Try what again?”
“Try us again. I understand if you don’t.”
“Is this because Duncan’s gone?”
“Yes and no. You and I are always saving each other. But, the other night.”
“What about it?”
“I never would have forgiven myself, if you had died.”
“Actually your exact words were ‘Logan, if you die on me I’m going to kill you’”
“You paid attention.”
“I didn’t want you mad at me.”
“You like it when I’m mad at you.”
“Not as much as I like it when you kiss me.”
“So you want me to kiss you?” Veronica asked as she leaned closer to him.
“I always want you to kiss me.” Logan said leaning toward her.
“Am I interrupting something?” Weevil asked smiling as the two of them jumped back to their former positions.
“Not at all Weevil. Congrats on graduating.”
“Yeah thanks, my grandmother was really pleased. Rich boy, you and I need to talk.”
“I’m being summoned. Be back soon.”
Logan followed Weevil out of the ballroom and down a corridor.
“Are we going somewhere special?”
“Do you know how lucky you are?”
“In what sense?”
“That girl still loves you. Are you going to screw it up again?”
“I’m going to try really hard not to.”
“Vee has been good to me, when she didn’t have to be. You treat her right this time or I’m going to have to hurt you.”
“Why are you telling me this?”
“A few of her friends and I have decided we want her happy, and it appears that it’s only going to happen with you. So we are going to assist you in getting her alone. What happens after that we don’t want the details.” Weevil said as he handed Logan a plastic card.
“A room card?”
“Room 700 get your ass up there. We’ll get Veronica up there in the next fifteen minutes. If you hurt her again.”
“I’ll let you kick the crap out of me, after Veronica gets through with me.”
“You better make this one count.”
I plan too.
Wallace and Mac are going to get her up there; you’d better be waiting.
“Hey Weevil, here.” Logan hands Weevil an envelope.
“What?”
“The house is yours. In there is also a check for your grandmother. She was always nice to my mom and me. Please take it.”
“Okay. Now get your ass up to that room.”
“Yes sir.”
Meanwhile Wallace had come to sit by Veronica. He was still down in the dumps because Jackie had left earlier then planned.
“Here.”
“What is this?”
“It’s Jackie’s address and a roundtrip ticket. Go and spend a few days with her and say Goodbye like you were meant to.”
“Is that what you are going to do?”
“What do you mean?”
“Logan. You know you aren’t over him. If you were completely honest with yourself you’d admit that you never were.”
“It would never work.”
“Did you really give it a chance?”
“Wallace”
“Here.”
“What is this?”
“It’s a room key for here at the hotel.”
“What?”
“Room 700; Mac has made sure no one will find you two. Your Dad, who has caught Woody, chooses to believe you are spending the night at Mac’s.”
“Wallace I can’t”
“You can and you want to.”
“You know the best decision I ever made was cutting you down off that pole. You’ve been a real good friend to me.”
“Back at you Superfly. Now go and get your man. By the way I better get to be godfather to any kids.”
Veronica got up before she could change her mind and almost ran out of the ballroom. She got to the elevator and pushed the number seven button. When the elevators opened again she followed the arrows to room 700.
She stood outside the door, before she made up her mind and pushed the key into the lock. When the light turned green, she twisted the handle and opened the door. She walked in and shut the door behind her.
Logan watched her walk in and caught her eyes. Veronica walked toward him, slowly unbuttoning the black sweater she had worn at the Sadie Hawkins dance. She took it off and dropped in on the chair that held his jacket and tie. They never broke eye contact. She took his face in her hands and brought his lips down to hers.
The minute their lips touched it was like a dam had burst inside both of them. Logan wrapped his arms around her and lifted her against him, while Veronica wrapped her legs around his waist.
He tore his lips from hers and grinned at her. “I guess not much has changed.”
“Not on this level.”
“How long can you stay?” Logan asked as he sat them on the bed.
“My Dad is choosing to believe I’m spending the night at Mac’s.”
Logan’s cell phone rang before he could respond. He picked it up and when he saw it was Wallace.
“Yeah Wallace, she’s here. Okay. Thanks. I’ll tell her. See you tomorrow.”
“Do I want to know what that was about?”
“Wallace said they packed each of us a change of clothes and they are in the closet.”
“Is that all he said?”
Logan turned an interesting shade of pink. “No.”
“What else did he say?”
“Other Provisions we might need are in the night table.”
Veronica’s eyebrows rose and she climbed off his lap to check out the situation. “Wow, they must think either we are really horny or we are going to go at each other like energizer bunnies.”
“Why?”
“Because there are three twelve packs of condoms in there.” Veronica said as she crawled across the bed and straddled his hips again. She quickly began kissing Logan’s neck.
“Veronica! Wait!”
“Why?”
“I didn’t come here just for us to have sex?”
“You didn’t?”
“No-well-Yes. Listen I want you so badly but I want us more. I don’t want a one-night thing. I’m serious about an us. Even if it means me driving to Pal Alto every other weekend to see you at Stanford.”
“What about your schooling?”
“I’ll make sure my weekends are entirely free.”
“You don’t want me to visit you.”
“Only if you let me get you a credit card on my account and you charge the gas to me. I don’t want you spending all of your money coming to see me.”
“You really would do that wouldn’t you?”
“Of course I would.”
“You won’t have to.”
“Why?”
“I won’t be going to Stanford.”
“Why not?”
“I wasn’t number one so I won’t be winning the Kane scholarship. I never took my last final. I wanted to know the verdict.”
“I’m sorry babe. I know you wanted Stanford. So where are you going?”
“Hearst. Logan less talking, more kissing.”
Chapter 2
Logan knew how to pay attention and was busy working on Veronica’s neck when her cell phone went off.
She glanced at the caller ID and answered. “Wallace I’m a little busy here.”
“Veronica this is important.”
“What is it?”
“Woody’s baseball team.”
“What about it?”
“Did you know Cassidy Casablancas was on it?”
All the pieces fell into place at once. “Wallace call my dad with this info. I have to find Mac she’s with him.” Veronica said as she climbed off of Logan’s lap and hung up the phone. She opened the closet door found her bag and unzipped it. ‘Thank God Wallace had packed her jeans.’ She stripped off her dress forgetting entirely that Logan was watching her. She hopped into her jeans and shirt. “Logan?”
“Right here.”
“I need you to find Cassidy. There is going to be trouble.”
“What? Why?”
“I can’t explain right now. Just find him. I’ll call or text you if I find him.” Veronica said as she ran out of the room.
Logan followed her. Thirty minutes later he still hadn’t found him. He went up to the penthouse to grab something from the mini-bar, when his phone went off. There was a text message; ‘Meet me on the roof now’ it didn’t say it was from Veronica, but in his gut that was who he knew sent it. He ran out of the penthouse and got to the stairs. He got on the roof and he couldn’t believe what he was seeing. Beaver had a gun trained on Veronica.
“No”
Beaver turned toward him leveled the gun and took his first shot. Logan dove behind the light on the roof. He popped his head up and Beaver took another shot at him. Veronica attacked him from behind after a quick scuffle he threw her off of him. Logan took his chance and grabbed him from behind trying to get him in a wresting hold. Beaver shot him with the taser. All of a sudden a shot rang out. Logan looked up and saw Veronica holding a gun on both of them.
“Logan step away from him.”
“Veronica don’t”
“He killed my father!”
“Give me the gun, Veronica.”
“He killed everyone on the bus! He raped me!”
“You are not a killer, Veronica. Give me the gun. You're not a killer, Veronica. Give me the gun.”
“Beaver, don't!”
“My name is Cassidy!”
“Cassidy, don't.”
“Why not? That's what I thought.”
Logan watched as Veronica comforted Mac. He gave Mac his key to the penthouse and told her to stay there tonight. A quick call to the concierge had them finding her clothes in a laundry chute. The assured Logan they would have the clothes laundered and brought up to his guest as soon as possible. Logan told Mac to go to sleep and they would deal with this in the morning, he had to get Veronica home.
Veronica was almost catatonic by the time Logan got her home. He sat on the couch with her and listened to her sob as if her heart was breaking. It broke his heart to know there was absolutely nothing he could do to ease her pain. Finally she went limp; exhaustion had simply taken over her body. He stayed with her on the couch like that for a few minutes and finally picked her up and carried her to her room. He removed her shoes and tucked her in.
There was no way he could leave her to face this alone. He lay back on the couch getting as comfortable as the smallish couch allowed him to get. Closed his eyes and wished Veronica didn’t have to wake up tomorrow to a world her beloved father was no longer in. All he could do was be there by her side. Logan fell asleep himself a few minutes later.
Logan opened his eyes and for a moment couldn’t remember why he was so uncomfortable. He recognized Veronica’s living room, and memories of last night came flooding back. He got up and splashed some water on his face. Veronica probably was not going to want eat, but he’d make her favorite and maybe he could tempt her into eating something.
He started the bacon frying in the pan. All of a sudden Veronica ran out of her room calling “Dad?” The minute she saw him she realized her father was gone. Logan came to her putting his arms around her to comfort her.
When her Dad came out a few seconds later, all Veronica cared about was that he was alive. Logan left to give them some time alone and allow Veronica to explain things to her father.
“Logan wait!” Logan turned as he heard Veronica’s voice behind him. “Where are you going?”
“You and your dad will want some time alone.”
“Logan please stay.”
“Veronica.”
“I couldn’t have gotten through last night without you. Besides, running away is my thing. I want you to stay.”
“Why?”
“Because I need you. Please?”
“Are you going to tell him everything?”
“Yes.”
“He isn’t going to want me there Veronica; not after what I did. I could forgive myself for Shelley’s party when I thought it had been Duncan, but to know that because of me Bea-Cassidy raped you.”
“Cassidy raped me because of what happened to him. I don’t blame you for what happened that night. I know no matter how much you hated me at that time; you never would have allowed me to be raped. Body shots yeah but not rape.”
“Your father isn’t going to see it like that.”
“Logan we talked about getting back together. To do that we have to be honest with him and ourselves. He won’t like but it’ll be easier for him to hear it from us then it popping up sometime in the future. Come back inside. Please.” Veronica said as she held out her hand to him.
Logan took her hand and allowed her to lead him back into the apartment.
Keith was cooking the bacon Logan had started. He looked at the two of them; Logan had never been his first choice for his daughter. However, Keith had seen how he was holding her when they thought he was gone. Saw that Logan hadn’t left Veronica to deal with this on her own. If he was honest with himself, he knew that these two had what a lot of people wanted, including himself. They were in for a bumpy ride, he hoped they would both hang on and make it this time.
“So are you two together again?”
“We’re thinking about it Dad. I need to tell you about something that happened to me.” Veronica said gripping Logan’s hand tightly.
Logan watched her father face as Veronica explained not only about Cassidy, Woody, and the bus crash. Logan heard her tell her father about what happened on the roof and everything else that happened last night. She told about the night of Shelley’s party, everything that happened, and Logan’s part in it. Keith’s face when Veronica told him she had been raped was a sight Logan never hoped to see again.
“I know you’re pissed at me Mr. Mars but I really would like to say something.” Logan said carefully.
“Go ahead Logan.” Keith said trying to reign in his temper as he thought about it. His baby girl, his sweet baby girl had been raped.
“I’ve been messed up for awhile. I took all my anger about Lilly’s death out on Veronica. I know it wasn’t right. When Veronica first told me about what happened to her, I wanted to be sick. It was the first time I realized that my actions could have serious consequences for someone other then me. That fact didn’t keep me from doing some more stupid stuff, but I did learn that. If I could take back that night I would. I was mad at her and at you, but I never would have allowed her to be hurt like that. I wouldn’t have let that happen to any woman. I want to see Veronica. I want to start again. Veronica said for us to start over again; we had to tell you everything. I know that it’s going to take a long time for you to trust me with her after everything I’ve done. You may never be able to trust me, and I can deal with that. I’m going to fight for her, for us. I can’t lose her from my life.”
Keith wanted to yell at Logan, at Veronica even for not telling him earlier. He saw Veronica take Logan’s hand in hers and hold it tightly. How could he punish a boy who had already been punished so much? Logan would never completely forgive himself for what happened to Veronica that night; but Veronica had. Keith could see it; she had already forgiven him his part in that horrible night. While Logan hadn’t saved her that night, he had saved his baby girl last night. Logan had obviously grown up this past year if he was willing to face a father’s rage. “Logan?”
Logan visible steeled himself for what was to happen next. “Yeah?”
“I’m not happy with the part you played in what happened; but I’m going to forgive you for it. One, because think you would take it back if you could; two, Veronica has forgiven you for your part in it; and three, because last night when she really needed you, you came through. So we are going forward with a clean slate. Anything else I should know about?”
“Do I have to tell you who I was dumb enough to sleep with when we weren’t together?” Logan asked.
“No, but If I ever need to ask you that, I’m demanding an honest answer. What about you honey?”
“Oh, I already know who he was dumb enough to sleep with. He knows better now.”
“That wasn’t what I meant. Then lets eat. Honey why don’t you turn on the TV so we can see what the news is saying about everything.”
“Sure. After breakfast I get first dibs on the shower.” Veronica said as she bit into a slice of bacon.
“I’ll shower at the hotel as I don’t have anything to wear.”
“Actually I think I still have some of your stuff here. I’ll check after my shower.”
The Neptune Grand was surrounded last night, due to the suicide of Cassidy Casablancas, and the wreckage of Mayor Woody Goodman’s plane. We have found out that another crime was committed last night also at the Neptune Grand. The body of Aaron Echolls, recently found not guilty for the murder of Lillian Kane, was found in his room with two gunshots to the head. His son, Logan Echolls, could not be reached for comment.
“Logan?”
“It’s over, he’s dead.”
“Are you okay?”
“I don’t know.”
No sooner were the words out of his mouth then there was a knock on the door. Veronica went to open the door. Deputy Sacks was there.
“Is this déjà vu?”
“Is Logan here?”
“Deputy, he just found his father was killed.”
“I know, Lamb wants me to bring him in for questioning.” Deputy Sacks said as he stepped inside the apartment.
“What? He was here all night with me.”
“It’s voluntary, Veronica. You know Lamb, he’d like nothing better then to drag Logan in to the station in front of all the cameras.”
“Well he isn’t going.”
“Yes he is.” Logan spoke up after watching Veronica argue with the detective.
“Logan can anyone beside Veronica vouch you were here last night?”
“I can. I came in around two o’clock this morning. I saw Logan’s car outside. When I went in to check on Veronica, she and Logan were asleep on her bed. If Lamb would like I’d be more then happy to repeat that in an official statement.”
Veronica’s eyes widened, and she Logan exchanged a glance as her father lied to the deputy. “See I told you he was here.”
“Veronica it’s okay I’ll go down to the station.”
“No, we’ll go down to the station after we’re done eating and we’ve gotten dressed for the day. Tell Lamb we’ll be in his office with two hours. He’d better be expecting all three of us.”
“You heard my daughter. We’ll be there in a couple of hours.”
Deputy Sacks nodded and left the apartment, closing the door behind him.
“Veronica.”
“You’re not doing this alone. We’re in this together. You have been by my side since I sent that text message. You got there within three minutes. Lamb is not going to even attempt to pin this on you.” Veronica said as she out her arms around him. “Dad why did you lie? Logan wasn’t in my bed.”
“Lamb doesn’t need to know that. I know Logan didn’t do this. I’m going to grab the shower first. Why don’t you see if you have something else for Logan to wear; then you guys can get cleaned up.” Keith said as he left the kitchen.
“He was a monster Veronica.”
“He was a man who couldn’t, or wouldn’t control his own demons. He was good at one time though.”
“How do you know?”
“Your mom wouldn’t have loved him otherwise; and since you here because of him, I can be sorry that he didn’t value what he could have had with you. C’mon lets go find you something to wear.”
Logan followed her into her bedroom and watched as she pulled a box from underneath her bed. “You’ve had this stuff all this time?”
“Well after I broke up with you I was doing laundry and realized I still had some of your stuff. I meant to give it back to you but then . . .”
“I get it. There is also one really good thing about this.”
“What’s that?”
“I get the money with no strings. I can go house hunting now.”
“Logan.”
“No death wish here babe. I will be a good boy.”
“Well don’t be too good. I like those bad boys.”
“You do Veronica? You like the bad boys?” He sat on her bed and pulled her toward him until she straddled his lap.”
“I like the redeemable bad boys; especially the ones that are tall, lanky, and have deep brown eyes. More specifically the one who comes to my rescue, and holds me tight when my world falls apart.” Veronica said as she put her arms around Logan’s neck and kissed him softly.
They sat there for long moments just kissing.
When they broke apart, Logan smiled and said, “That’s good because who does it for me, is short, pesky, annoying blondes with big blue eyes. Specifically the one who helped me when she didn’t have to, who didn’t tell the whole school when I broke down, and who saves my ass when she really wants to kick it.”
“Actually I wanted to kick it more after you started your thing with Kendall.”
“I wish I could tell you it was all sex, but a small part of it was getting back at you. It hurt when you broke up with me.”
“I’m sorry, it wasn’t that I didn’t have feelings for you. I did, but you were scaring me. I wanted normal. I wanted to be who I was before Lilly died, and part of that was being with Duncan. He was safe. I didn’t stay like that. I realized I couldn’t go back to being that person. I had to accept that this is who I am and I need to be with someone who likes me just as I am; who likes the me I’ve become. Can you imagine the old Veronica ever making out with you in your car, or in the girls’ bathroom? Going on stakeouts, solving crimes?”
“Becoming a card shark. No, I can’t imagine it. I also can’t imagine having to rescue the old Veronica from a crooked undercover ATF agent, and kissing her outside the Camelot Hotel.”
“You’ve changed too.”
“Not entirely for the better, but I’m going to get there.”
“Shower is free!” They smiled at the sound of Keith’s voice.
“You go ahead Logan.” Veronica said as she climbed off of his lap.
“Okay,” said Logan as he grabbed some things out of the box and headed toward the shower.
Veronica took a deep breath and went to her own closet to pick out some clothes to wear to confront Lamb. Lamb was not going to be a happy camper. She told both Logan and her dad that she tried to report the rape and what Lamb had said. Neither had said anything but she had seen both of them tighten their fists. He also wasn’t going to be happy Logan had an alibi. Veronica lost track of time as she imagined what she’d really like to say to Lamb.
“Veronica!”
“Yeah Dad?”
“Logan’s out of the shower, and getting dressed in my room. Hurry up so we can get going.”
“You two better not have used all the hot water.” Veronica called out as she took her clothes in the bathroom with her.
Less then thirty minutes later they were walking out. Keith got into to his rental car and Veronica and Logan got into his Xterra. She had to her car was still at the Neptune Grand.
Keith beats them to the Sheriff’s office by a few seconds. “Hello Inga.” He says as he walks into Lamb’s office. Keith takes Lamb by the shirt and throws him against the wall. Veronica and Logan hearing the noise rush into Lamb’s office.
“Dad! Put him down.”
Keith doesn’t listen. “A young woman comes to you telling you she has been raped, and you blow her off.”
“I never did any such thing.”
“Did not my daughter come into this office two and a half years ago and make that same statement? So other girls are believed but not my daughter? Not my baby girl!”
“Daddy, he’s not worth it.”
Keith drops Lamb as quickly as he had grabbed him causing him to fall rather painfully on his butt. “I ever hear of you doing anything like that again, I’ll have you recalled so fast your head will spin for a year. I hear my daughter solved another one of your crimes for you.”
“I hear you covering for murderers these days.”
“What covering?”
“Mr. Logan Echolls. Lying for your daughter’s ex-boyfriend. That’s not like you Keith.”
Keith held up a hand before Logan or Veronica could speak.
“Do you have a possible time of death for Aaron? I also want to know if you know exactly when Woody’s plane exploded. Also do you have a time of death for the Casablancas boy.”
“Woody’s plane exploded at approximately 8:18 p.m. The Casablancas kid took a dive off the building less then 10 minutes later. Aaron died sometime between eight and nine p.m.”
“How could Logan have been killing his father if he was on the roof rescuing my daughter from Cassidy Casablancas at the same time.”
“What?”
“Logan show him your phone.” Keith pointed out to Lamb the time of the text message. My daughter sent this message to Logan less then a minute after Woody’s plane blew up. Logan who was in the penthouse when he got the message was on the roof only a few minutes later trying to rescue Veronica. There is no way Logan had time to kill his father and still be up on the roof a few minutes later to rescue my daughter.”
“Why would she call her ex? Why not call you?”
“Because as far as she knew I was on the plane that she had just seen blown up. She knew Logan would come help her. I guess Veronica knew from experience what kind of help she would get from you.”
“Why would the Casablancas do this?”
“Because-“
“Dad wait! I think Dick should be here to hear all this.”
“The brother is in the tank sleeping it off.” Lamb said with a dismissive wave of his hand.
“Get him in here.” Keith demanded. Lamb called for Dick to be brought up.
Logan sat down in one of Lamb’s chairs and pulled Veronica onto his lap. He raised eyebrow to Lamb daring him to say a word.
Lamb didn’t take the warning. “You do know she has an STD right?”
“Which she got from the night she was raped. She came to you for help and you blew her off. I’m telling you right now if anything is wrong with Veronica’s chances of having children because of this, I will personally name you in the lawsuit and the Sheriff’s department for the inadequacy of training and upholding the law.” Keith said between his teeth.
Veronica and Logan exchanged a look, they hadn’t even thought that far ahead. “Don’t worry. We’ll get you seen by a specialist. My father owes you that much.” Logan whispered softly in her ear. Veronica acknowledged what was said by a nod.
Dick came in followed by a detective. Veronica had never seen him so lost. “It’s true isn’t it? Bea-Cassidy’s dead?”
Keith leaned against Lamb’s desk, “I’m sorry son, but yes he’s gone.”
“Why?”
Keith explained to Dick everything that had happened, from the molestation to his rooftop encounter with Veronica and Logan.
“You mean Woody, Gia’s Dad, did that-“ Dick couldn’t finish as his stomach rebelled and he lost what was left in it. Keith had grabbed Lamb’s garbage can just in case. When he was only dry heaving, he spoke again, “He did this to my brother when he was just a kid, no one would have blamed him, if the truth had come out, right?”
“Dick he couldn’t handle the thought of everyone knowing what had happened to him. That’s why he caused the bus crash, and how everything spiraled out of control from there. I’m so sorry. Cassidy did some horrible things, but he was just a terrified kid underneath.” Veronica said softly.
“Did he say anything before he jumped? Did he blame me for not protecting him?”
Logan spoke up, “No man, he didn’t blame you. The last thing he said was tell Dick this isn’t his fault.”
Veronica quickly substantiated his lie. “Dick it was not about you, Cassidy just couldn’t take the pain and he let it out in all the wrong ways. He looked up to you, you were his big brother.”
“He didn’t do anything else did he?” Dick asked. He saw a shadow cross Veronica’s face. “What else did he do Veronica?”
“Dick it isn’t important, it’s in the past.” Veronica said truly not wanting to add to Dick’s pain. Dick was an ass at times but Cassidy was still his brother.
“I want to know.”
“No you don’t man. If Veronica says let it go, let it go.” Logan said.
“I have to know. Veronica tell me what else Cassidy did.”
“The night of Shelley Pomeroy’s party, someone laced my drink with GHB. When you left me in the guestroom with Cassidy. He-“
“He what?”
“He raped me Dick. When the Mayor molested Cassidy he gave Cassidy chlamydia. When he raped me he passed the chlamydia to me. That was how I figured out it was Cassidy who was behind all of it.”
“I egged him on. I told him to take advantage of you. I left him in that room with you. You weren’t one of us anymore. You didn’t matter. What happened to you was my fault.”
“You didn’t give me the GHB Dick. I was the one who just grabbed a drink I was handed. I don’t hate your brother Dick. I hate what he did. He was just a messed up kid, who did something wrong. When he thought the world as he knew it would end he took drastic measures, and then had to do more drastic stuff to cover it up. The only thing I hated him for was I thought he had killed my father. He was supposed to have been on the plane with Woody.”
“What do I do now?”
“You bury Cassidy and mourn the loss of your little brother.”
“What is everyone going to be told?”
“Dick the truth needs to come out about the bus crash, and the molestation. People need to know what Woody did, so they can get their kids the help they need.”
“What about the rape?”
“That information never leaves this room.”
“That girl Bea-Cassidy was with last night, Mac, is she okay?”
“She will be.”
“The money in Cassidy’s trust reverts to me if he dies before he is eighteen. I’d like to give that money to the families of those that were killed on the bus. Divide it equally between them and Veronica.” Dick said feeling very old. It was the right thing to do.
“Dick I don’t want any money.”
“I want you to have it. You were almost on that bus. Correction you were on the bus, it was a fluke you got off.”
“Dick, I have a better idea, take the money you were going to give me and do something in Cassidy’s name. Build an abuse shelter, so this doesn’t happen to anyone else’s kids. A place that if a child is hurt like that he has a place that they can get help confidentially. I’ll help so will Logan and Mac. We won’t hide the truth, we’ll tell it and make sure no child thinks the only way to protect themselves is by hurting someone else. If you need help with anything let me know.”
“Why are you doing this Veronica?”
“Because I want to remember the Cassidy that held Mac’s hand; the Cassidy that had a really sweet smile. I don’t hate him Dick I just hate what happened to him and what he did because of that.”
“Do we need to identify the bodies for forms sake?” Logan asked Lamb.
“What bodies? Two people died?” Dick asked really confused.
“My father was shot and killed last night.” Logan said.
“I don’t know what to do next?” Dick said feeling lost.
“Why don’t I help you get the paperwork started, son.” Keith offered.
“I’ll go down with you to the morgue.” Logan said firmly.
“I could make arrangements with the funeral home.”
“Veronica you don’t have to wait here.” Logan said.
“Yes I do. I’ll give my statement to Lamb here; while you three go down to the morgue. Then, while you and Dad are giving your statements I’ll call the funeral home and make an appointment for Dick. If you want to avoid the media circus you’ll want to bury Cassidy right away.”
“Veronica, you really don’t have to.”
“None of us saw the pain he was in until it was too late. I’m going to help you bury the boy I thought I knew and who at one time was very nice to me. I don’t think Kendall is going to be much help. Dick do you want me to call your mother so she can be here for you?”
“No, she’s not going to handle this well. It’ll be better if I call her after the arrangements are made.” Dick said as he gave her a look.”
Veronica made a silent plea to her father.
“Lamb, why don’t we go get the paperwork so Veronica can make her statement.”
“Ok Dick, its just us. What do you need me to do?”
“I need to contact my father and tell him. I know he did awful things but he should be there.”
“Tell me what you need me to do.”
Dick took a pen off of Lamb’s desk and reached for Veronica’s arm. After pulling up the shirtsleeve wrote a phone number and a few names on her arm. He pulled her sleeve down. “That should get you started. I don’t care if he’s prosecuted. I don’t want him to hear about Cassidy like that.”
“I’ll get right on it.”
Dick stood up and looked so defeated. Veronica couldn’t help but get to her feet and give him a hug. “I’m so sorry, Dick.”
“Me too.”
Logan rose and kissed Veronica on the cheek.
“I’m not going anywhere without you.”
“You two back together?”
Logan answered, “We don’t know.”
“We’re working it out.” Veronica said as Lamb came back in.
“Come on boys. Let’s get the paperwork started so we can go to the morgue. Veronica we’ll be back soon.”
Veronica nodded as she sat down and told Lamb everything that she had learned.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Several hours later Veronica, Logan, and Dick were at the presidential suite. Dick had gone into Duncan’s old room and fallen asleep. Veronica and Logan were on the sofa watching some movie on the television. They talked in soft whispers.
“How are you doing?”
Logan shrugged, “Just call me Little Orphan Annie.”
“Logan.”
“I think I’m okay. He can’t hurt me anymore. More importantly he can’t hurt you anymore. Thanks by the way.”
“For what?”
“Going along with me for Dick.”
“He deserved that much peace. I don’t think Cassidy would have hurt you.”
“I know he wouldn’t. Cassidy was a crack shot. If he had wanted me dead I’d have been dead with the first shot. He didn’t want the secret out, but I think he was tired of all the lies and cover-ups.”
“I think so too.”
“So now for the question I really want to ask. Are we going to try again?”
“I’d like to. We still have some things to talk about from everything that happened this year. I realized something last night and it was confirmed today. You wouldn’t have treated me like Duncan did. If a former girlfriend of yours had gotten pregnant and you knew it was yours; you wouldn’t have kept it from me to discover on my own. You would have told me and risked the fight we probably would have had. You are who you are and if I want this I have to take you as you are, not try to change you. I also realized I’ll never be the Veronica I was when Lilly was alive. I’ve changed and normal is what you make it. It will be what we make it.”
“That is very profound.”
“Says the guy who has an inspirational message everyday on his voice mail.”
“Well everyone has to have a hobby. You okay?”
“I’m just really tired. I don’t feel like I slept much last night.”
“If you’re tired you can go crash on my bed for awhile.”
Veronica craned her head toward his bedroom and turned back to look at him. “Am I crashing alone? I doubt you very comfortable on my couch.”
“That is true. Do think your dad would let me buy you guys a longer sofa, so that when I crash on it my legs don’t fall off the edge.”
“We might be able to talk him into it. You didn’t answer my question. Am I napping alone?”
“You sure you want me there?”
“Logan the only thing that got me through last night was you. We’re just sleeping, nothing else yet.”
Logan stood up and held out his hand. Veronica put her hand in his and followed him to his room. They didn’t bother to shut the door as they only planned on sleeping. Logan sat on the bed and removed his shoes; he lay down on the bed and closed his eyes. Veronica removed her shoes and hoodie and climbed up beside him like she did when she thought he had been Duncan that one time. Logan put his arms around her and held her close. Veronica closed her eyes and the last thing she heard before falling asleep was the beat of Logan’s heart.
When she woke up later it was dark outside and she was in bed alone, covered by a blanket. Veronica sat up and tried to clear her head. She got off the bed and went into the living area of the suite. It was dark there too. She went to what had been Duncan’s bedroom and saw the bed was empty. Veronica couldn’t figure out if she was sad Logan had left without a word or not. When she went to get her shoes she saw a note with her name on it by the bedside table.
Veronica,
Dick and I had to run some errands and stuff. We’ll pick up dinner and be back by seven.
If you won’t be there when I get back call my cell. I want to hope you waking up next to
Me wasn’t a dream. I’ll see you soon
Logan
Veronica picked up her cell. “Hi Dad. I’m still at Logan’s. No he isn’t here he went with Dick to run a few errands he is supposed to be back here within the hour. I’m going to stay here tonight. Dad, I am eighteen and I am letting you know where I am. By the way, Logan wants to know if he can buy us a couch. He says ours is to short for when he has to crash on it. I just wanted to let you know I won’t be home tonight. I’m going by the apartment to pick some stuff up and I will see you tomorrow morning. I don’t know if Dick is staying here tonight or not, but probably. Yes I’ll have my cell on and I’ll check in later. I love you too Dad. By the way are you going to be this bad if I ever decide to get married? Bye.”
Veronica looked at her watch and decided against leaving Logan a note. She picked up and dialed his phone number.
She was surprised when she heard Dick’s voice answering. “Hello Veronica. Logan, your girlfriend woke up and is on the phone. Veronica he is about to finish something. Can you call back a bit later?”
“How about I tell you and you give him the message?”
“I can do that.”
“Tell Logan I had to run a couple of errands and I will meet you guys back at the suite in time for dinner, okay?”
“Got it. You’re running errands and will meet us back at the suite. Logan said it was okay if I stayed for a few days. Is that okay with you? I don’t want to ruin the reunion.”
“That’s fine. Logan and I aren’t ready to jump that far into whatever we are. My dad and I are leaving for New York on Tuesday. We’ll be gone a week.”
“I’m burying my brother tomorrow.”
“Is it okay if I come with Logan to the service?”
“Yeah. Do you think I should let that Mac girl know?”
“I’ll call her and see if she wants to come. I’ll see you back here for dinner. Please don’t forget to give Logan the message.”
“I won’t forget. Later, Veronica.”
Veronica hung up the phone and called Mac, when her voice mail came on. Veronica left a message with the information. Offering to pick Mac up if she wanted to go. Veronica grabbed her bag and left the room.
Less then an hour later Veronica was back at the suite. When she opened the door, she saw Logan and Dick were playing GTA. Shaking her head, “You two better not have eaten all the food.”
Logan glanced up at her while playing non-stop, “Risk life and limb by not having enough food for my girl. You must think I have a death wish. Food’s over there. I’m almost done kicking Dick’s ass.”
“Keep thinking that dude. I’m so wiping the floor with your ass.”
“Male bonding at it’s best. Dick, when is the service tomorrow?”
“Ten o’clock. My mom is flying in late tonight. I picked some more clothes up for me.”
“I’ll let Mac know, she said she wants to go. I’ll pick her up in the morning.”
“Is-Is she doing okay?”
“As best as can be expected.”
“Cassidy didn’t hurt her too did he?”
“He broke her heart Dick. It takes time to get over that.”
Dick paused the video game. “My mom is going to have someone pack up Be-Cassidy’s room. I was going to go home after the service and see if there was anything I wanted of his. Do you think Mac would want anything of his?”
“I’ll ask her. Dick I found your Dad, I hope you don’t mind but I told him about everything. He can’t get a flight out for tomorrow. I put him in contact with my Dad. He’ll help him come home to say good-bye.”
“He’ll be arrested.”
“Dad and I agreed he should be able to say goodbye to his son. It may not be right, but we’re doing it. We’re giving him 24 hours to come in see you, and say goodbye to his son. If he stays in town beyond that, dad is going to turn him in okay?”
“That’s fair.”
“I’m going to call Mac and then come over there and kick both your asses.”
“Okay babe.”
Logan and Dick got back to playing their game.
“Hey Logan?”
“Yeah.”
“She’s a keeper.”
“I know.”
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*