Title: The Saint Has Fallen
Rating: PG for some swearing
Pairing : This is a LoVe story. Is there any other kind?
Summary : Veronica can't ignore Duncan's secrets and lies anymore. Alternate extended ending for 'My Mother the Fiend'. AU starting from Veronica leaving Meg's hospital room.
Spoilers : Up to 'My Mother the Fiend'
Disclaimer : I own nothing, I make no profit. I just like to play.
**************
Author's note: I have been watching a lot of episodes trying to find the inspiration to finish 'It Don't Come Easy' (which I WILL finish!!!). I was always bothered that "Saint Duncan" got away with so much - the lying, the cheating - I think Veronica really needed to lose those rose-colored glasses when it came to him. This just came to me and wouldn't get out of my head. Hope you enjoy!
**************
Veronica swiftly walked away from Megs hospital room. The image of her pregnant belly burned into her mind.
Duncan had to know. It definitely explained why he kept the constant vigil outside Megs room. She was pregnant with his child. It also explained Megs hostile attitude more she had been pregnant, alone and terrified.
It seemed Duncan had a lot of secrets these days. Lying to her and lying about her to his parents. She really didnt appreciate being the dirty little mistress. Veronica wondered if there was anything else she had been blind to while on her path to normal. She left the hospital and headed to her car she intended to find out.
---
Honey, Im home! Logan called out as he entered the suite. He came around the corner just in time to see Kendall scramble off Duncans lap whilst fixing her shirt.
Hmmm. Logan wasnt really surprised, Im glad that you werent bored or lonely while I was gone.
Duncan stuttered, Uh, we were just
Logan held up his hand, Please DK, save me the lame attempt at trying to cover up what I already knew.
Kendall got off the couch and approached Logan, hips swaying seductively. Dont be mad, Logan. Cant we all just play nice together? She reached out to run her hands down Logans chest.
Logan grabbed her hands before she could make contact.
Oh, you two can keep playing with each other all you want. I honestly dont care what or who you do. Logan dropped her hands pushing them away, almost disgusted to have touched her.
Kendall looked at him, confusion across her face.
You see, he walked away from her and towards the bar, You didnt really get the hint the other night when I escorted you to the door after Trina left. Im done with you.
Youre what?! Kendal asked, confused.
Done. With. You. Logan repeated forcefully.
Angry flashed across Kendalls face. How dare you
Logan sighed loudly, cutting her off. You can save your indignant rant. Im not interested. You were only ever meant as a mindless distraction. You werent even a good one.
Again Kendall went to speak, but again Logan cut her off, Seriously, I hardly cared what came out of your mouth while I was fucking you. You can imagine how little I care now.
Duncan only watched this exchange, still sitting on the couch. Kendall looked at him outraged.
Are you just going to sit there and let him talk to me this way?! she demanded.
Duncan didnt answer, he didnt even look up at her.
Looks like it. Logan smirked. He grabbed a hold of Kendalls arm and started ushering her towards the door.
DK and I have some roommate issues to work out. So I think, he opened the door and roughly shoved Kendall out into the hall, Its time I put the trash out.
He slammed the door in her face and went back to the living room. He stood there are just stared at Duncan for a minute, trying to reign in the rage he had building inside.
Duncan stood and made his way over to Logan.
Look, man, Im sorr..
It was all he got out before Logans fist connected hard with his face. He was knocked back, fell over the coffee table and landed with a crash on the floor.
What the fuck?! Duncan yelled holding his face, I thought you didnt care who she did?!?
Logan was furious, I dont care about her, you fucking idiot! I care about Veronica, You know, the girl youre cheating on with that money hungry whore!!
Duncan hung his head, I he started.
Just shut the fuck up! Logan yelled. Theres no excuse you could come up with that would convince me cheating on Veronica is acceptable!
Duncan slowly pulled himself off the floor and to his feet. He wiped the blood from his split lip on the back of his hand. You still love her, dont you?! he asked, almost accused.
Logan resisted the urge to punch him again. At least one of us does.
I love Veron
If you finish that statement, I will hit you again. Logan cut in. What the fuck is wrong with you? Why would you . How could you do this to her?
Duncan remained silent. He couldnt answer either question.
They let the silence fill the space between them. Logan knew that this was the moment where he and Duncan were no longer friends.
You know, I only stayed around and put myself through the torture of watching Duncan and Veronica couple extraordinaire because I thought she was better off with you. Now I see that wasnt the case at all. Logan shook her head, I only ever slept with Kendall because I couldnt have Veronica.
Are you going to tell her? Duncan asked, fearful.
No. Logan gave Duncan a hard look, You are.
Duncan paled at the idea, No, I cant.
You can and you will! Logan took a step towards Duncan, Or, so help me God, they will never find your body!
---
Veronica stepped off the elevator just in time to see Kendall be shoved out the door. She heard Logans comment about putting the trash out and she couldnt help but smile.
Kendall stood there for a moment, staring at the door before her stunned. Finally she turned away and hurried towards the elevator. She was lost in her own stupor so much that she passed Veronica without noticing her.
Curious as to what just happened, Veronica approached the suite door. Logan had slammed it with enough force that it had bounced on the door jam, not latching and leaving the door slightly ajar.
She opened the door stepping into the suite just in time to hear the sounds of someone being punched, then falling over something to crash to the floor. She froze and listened.
She heard the entire exchange between the two boys. She remained quite and still despite the overwhelming urge to vomit. She wasnt sure she could move. Until
Like father, like son! Duncan hissed in response to Logans comment about not finding the body.
She turned the corner and surprised both boys and herself.
Hes NOTHING like his father! she said forcefully, glaring at Duncan.
Veronica. Duncan whispered horrified. How long have you been there?
Long enough to know that you, apparently, are very much like your father! With the lying, cheating and secret love child on the way. Her voice was surprisingly even. She thought it strange that she wasnt more upset, that she wasnt yelling but all she felt was a calm fury.
Duncan had flinched at the mention of the baby. I was going to tell you about the baby! His tone was desperate, It was just never the right time
Shut up! Veronica snapped at him.
She turned her attention to Logan, Thank you. She wasnt sure what exactly she was thanking him for; for punching Duncan, for confronting him, for trying to make him come clean, for loving her For all of the above.
Logan nodded, he seemed to understand. Thank you he told her quietly.
She knew he meant it for saying that he was not like Aaron. She nodded. Give us a minute? she asked him.
Logan frowned.
Ill be okay. Veronica told him. She reached out and put her hand on his arm. I will, I promise. Just dont go too far.
Logan nodded again, frown still in place. Okay. Ill just be in my room packing the few things that I have. I wont be living here anymore.
Turning Logan walked into his room and was sure not to close the door all the way. If Duncan raised his voice once even a little, Logan wanted to be out there punching him again without any delay.
He picked up the phone and called the front desk. He requested a room under his own name as far way from the Presidential Suite as possible and for a bellman to be sent up as soon as the room was ready.
Packing his belongings didnt take very long. Once he had it all into his bags, he sat on the bed and tried not to listen to the voices in the next room. He could hear Duncan pleading and every now and then caught the low, dangerous tones of Veronica.
It wasnt before long he heard the suite door open and slam shut. Veronicas exit, he thought. He was on his feet and moving before he realized. He wanted to go after her, make sure she was okay.
He opened the bedroom door and was surprised to see Veronica standing there at the threshold.
I told him to get out while I gathered my things from his room. I never want to step foot in here again after today. She explained her voice flat. She looked so small and tired standing there. Logan fought his desire to grab and hug her.
Ive called and gotten my own room. The bellman should be here soon.
Veronica gave a small nod, Ill go get my stuff.
---
The bellman arrived, loaded Logans bags and Veronicas one small bag onto the trolley. He led them out of the room and to the elevator. They were silent as the rode the 5 floors down, the only sound being the cheesy elevator music.
Veronica reached over and took Logans hand in hers without looking up at him. He held it tightly, relieved to be giving her some form of comfort.
Once in the new room, Logan handed the bellman a hundred dollar bill.
Please make sure that Mr.Kane does not find out what room weve moved to.
The bellman nodded as he accepted the bill, Not a problem Mr.Echolls. Ill make sure the front desk knows. The man gave Veronica a small smile and then left, pulling his trolley as he went.
They stood there side by side taking in the room. It was nice, though half the size of the suite upstairs. First off, it only had one bedroom. The sitting area was a decent size, nice couch; a lot of the same decorations filled the room.
Logan was about to speak, when Veronicas cellphone rang. She pulled it out of her pocket and looked at the called ID, afraid to see Duncans name. She sighed in relief when she saw it was her father.
Hey Dad. she moved and sat on the edge of the couch. She had a chipper tone to her voice that Logan knew was forced. He wondered if her father would catch it. Where are you off to this time? No rest for the wicked, huh? Dad, Ill be okay in bed with my face washed and teeth brushed by 10pm! I do not need to stay at the Fennels. You worry far too much old man! Okay, I love you too. Be safe. Bye
She hung up the phone and sat there for a moment just staring off into space. Logan wondered if he should say something and racked his brain for anything to lighten the mood and maybe get a smile out of her.
Logan. She spoke first, Can I take a shower?
Yeah, anything you want. Are you hungry? I could have room service bring up some food for when you get out? Logan jumped at the chance to do anything useful for her.
Im not really hungry. She replied.
Logan mock gasped and covered his mouth, Veronica Mars is not hungry!?! Say it aint so!?! Isnt that a sign of the coming apocalypse?!?
Veronica smiled then, it was small, but it was there and Logan felt proud of himself for coaxing it out. She grabbed her bag, which was mostly her toiletries, a few CDs and an old pair of shorts she liked to sleep in, and headed to the bathroom.
Before she closed the door, she turned back to Logan. Order me anything pasta with a lot of cheese on it.
Logan smiled and nodded while reaching for the phone.
---
Veronica stood staring at herself in the mirror. She rehashed the days events over in her mind. Duncan was not the person she thought he was. Not the sweet boy she fell in love with when she was 14. Then again, she wasnt that sweet girl anymore either. They had changed, in more ways then she cared to think about.
She again thought it strange that she was not more upset. Sure she was upset, but she just thought that there should be more yelling and screaming when you find out your boyfriend was cheating on you. It should hurt more then it did, she should be crying her eyes out.
Instead her calm fury had just turned into a weird indifference. Seeing that Duncan was not the boy she once knew, not the boy she loved she actually felt relieved. She didnt have to pretend anymore. She didnt have to keep up this faade. It had been so tiring.
Tearing her gaze away from herself and the mirror, she turned the shower on and stripped out of her clothes. The water was hot on her skin when she stepped in and she loved the feel of it. It made her feel alive again and not so numb.
---
Logan waited anxiously sitting on the couch. He thought of turning on the TV, but decided against it. He wanted to make sure that he heard Veronica if she called out for anything.
He listened to the sound of the water running in the shower. He wondered how Veronica really was. Other than her phone conversation with her Dad, she hadnt really spoken since she came out of Duncans room carrying her bag. She was distant and withdrawn.
He wondered where her rage had gone. Every other day of the week she wore it proudly, like a badge for everyone to see. But today the day she had such cause and righteous use for it, she remained mute. He hadnt decided if it was a good or bad thing that she hadnt screamed at Duncan. He did, however, know that it was most definitely over between the two of them.
At that thought, Logan couldnt help but smile. He knew that the events of today were not about him, but part of him couldnt help being so completely happy that it was over for Duncan and Veronica couple extraordinaire. Was it selfish? Definitely. Logan didnt care.
The knock on the door pulled Logan from his thoughts. After letting the room service steward in with the trays, he tipped him generously and walked over to the bathroom door. The water had just stopped.
Ronnie. He called through door, The foods here.
Ill be out in a moment. She was her muffled reply.
She came out, one of the hotels fluffy robes wrapped tightly around herself. She looked a little more refreshed and smiled at Logan as he lifted the covers off the food to reveal the contents. There were a few different options; Lasagna, manicotti, spaghetti.
She laughed looking at the plates, Did you order the whole menu?
Only the all the pasta dishes. Logan shrugged, If memory serves me correct, you can pack away a lot of food for a smurf.
Hey! Veronica objected to the use of the word smurf, but she smiled as she took a seat and eyed the lasagna.
They ate in silence for a little bit. Veronica had moved on from the lasagna and was digging into the manicotti. She was surprised to find that she was hungry after all and was glad that Logan ordered so such.
Maybe I should have gotten two orders of that. Logan mused watching her. She only stuck her tongue out at him and kept eating.
Stuffed, they both sat back and sighed.
That was really good. Veronica commented as she stretched leaning back in her seat. She got up and moved toward Logans bags. Without asking she opened the top one, reached in and pulled out a t-shirt. She disappeared into the bathroom briefly, than came back out wearing the t-shirt and her shorts.
It was late and she didnt feel like driving back to her apartment. In truth, she also didnt feel like being anywhere Duncan could possibly find her nor did she want to be alone.
Is it okay if I sleep here tonight Logan? she asked, already knowing the answer.
As long as you want. Logan answered quickly.
Thanks.
You take the room and Ill sleep out here on the couch.
Veronica immediately started to argue with him, but he would hear none of it. She was getting the bed and that was the end of it. No discussion, no changing his mind.
Veronica muttered something about him being stubborn as she walked into the room. She didnt close the door behind her, choosing to leave it open and Logan was relieved.
Logan watched her from the couch as she crawled into the big bed and shifted around trying to get comfortable. Finally she seemed to settle and he sank back into the couch.
He was just starting to drift off the sleep when he heard her call out to him.
Logan? she called again.
Yeah. He got off the couch and moved to stand in the bedroom door.
She fiddled with the hem of the blanket, Could you, maybe, sleep in here? With me? I she inhaled a deep breath and blew it out, I dont want to be alone. She admitted.
Logan made it to the side of the bed in two long strides. He got in under the covers, careful not to crowd her side. He lay on his back and stared up at the ceiling. It had been a while since he was this close, in this way with Veronica. Every part of him wanted to reach over and gather her into his arms, tell her that shed never be alone again and that everything would be okay.
Instead her crossed his arms over his chest and closed his eyes.
Logan? she whispered again after a few minutes.
Yeah? he whispered back, turning his head in her direction.
Did you mean what you said to Duncan earlier? Veronica had wanted to ask Logan that question all night. While they ate, she had replayed the exchange between Duncan and Logan over and over in her mind. Logan protecting her, threatening to kill Duncan for her, dissolving their friendship over her Logan admitting that he loved her.
Every word of it. He answered honestly.
He felt Veronica shift in the bed, moving closer to him. She lifted his arm from his chest and curled up against him. Logan pulled her closer and wrapped his arm around her.
Im sorry. She said into his chest.
For what? Logans surprised voice asked.
For ever leaving you. Veronica looked up at him. I never should have . I dont belong with Duncan. I dont love Duncan, I havent for a long time.
Logan looked down at her, Veronica?
I was just lying to myself, thinking I could get back some of the girl I lost when Lily died. She shook her head, Im not that girl anymore and I dont want to be her ever again. I want to be the girl I am with you, shes the real me now.
Logan was stunned. He actually reached over and pinched himself to make sure that he was indeed awake and hadnt fallen into a lovely dream.
She wasnt coming right out and saying it, but it sounded like she loved him too. She didnt need to say the words, hearing her say that she wanted to be with him was more than enough.
Logan hugged her tighter and kissed the top of her head. I want that too. More than anything.
In the dark, they both smiled to themselves. Neither, when waking up this morning to start the day, would have ever thought that theyd be ending it like this. Neither could think of any other place they wanted to be.
--end--
Feedback!! You know you wanna give it to me!!
Rating: PG for some swearing
Pairing : This is a LoVe story. Is there any other kind?
Summary : Veronica can't ignore Duncan's secrets and lies anymore. Alternate extended ending for 'My Mother the Fiend'. AU starting from Veronica leaving Meg's hospital room.
Spoilers : Up to 'My Mother the Fiend'
Disclaimer : I own nothing, I make no profit. I just like to play.
**************
Author's note: I have been watching a lot of episodes trying to find the inspiration to finish 'It Don't Come Easy' (which I WILL finish!!!). I was always bothered that "Saint Duncan" got away with so much - the lying, the cheating - I think Veronica really needed to lose those rose-colored glasses when it came to him. This just came to me and wouldn't get out of my head. Hope you enjoy!
**************
Veronica swiftly walked away from Megs hospital room. The image of her pregnant belly burned into her mind.
Duncan had to know. It definitely explained why he kept the constant vigil outside Megs room. She was pregnant with his child. It also explained Megs hostile attitude more she had been pregnant, alone and terrified.
It seemed Duncan had a lot of secrets these days. Lying to her and lying about her to his parents. She really didnt appreciate being the dirty little mistress. Veronica wondered if there was anything else she had been blind to while on her path to normal. She left the hospital and headed to her car she intended to find out.
---
Honey, Im home! Logan called out as he entered the suite. He came around the corner just in time to see Kendall scramble off Duncans lap whilst fixing her shirt.
Hmmm. Logan wasnt really surprised, Im glad that you werent bored or lonely while I was gone.
Duncan stuttered, Uh, we were just
Logan held up his hand, Please DK, save me the lame attempt at trying to cover up what I already knew.
Kendall got off the couch and approached Logan, hips swaying seductively. Dont be mad, Logan. Cant we all just play nice together? She reached out to run her hands down Logans chest.
Logan grabbed her hands before she could make contact.
Oh, you two can keep playing with each other all you want. I honestly dont care what or who you do. Logan dropped her hands pushing them away, almost disgusted to have touched her.
Kendall looked at him, confusion across her face.
You see, he walked away from her and towards the bar, You didnt really get the hint the other night when I escorted you to the door after Trina left. Im done with you.
Youre what?! Kendal asked, confused.
Done. With. You. Logan repeated forcefully.
Angry flashed across Kendalls face. How dare you
Logan sighed loudly, cutting her off. You can save your indignant rant. Im not interested. You were only ever meant as a mindless distraction. You werent even a good one.
Again Kendall went to speak, but again Logan cut her off, Seriously, I hardly cared what came out of your mouth while I was fucking you. You can imagine how little I care now.
Duncan only watched this exchange, still sitting on the couch. Kendall looked at him outraged.
Are you just going to sit there and let him talk to me this way?! she demanded.
Duncan didnt answer, he didnt even look up at her.
Looks like it. Logan smirked. He grabbed a hold of Kendalls arm and started ushering her towards the door.
DK and I have some roommate issues to work out. So I think, he opened the door and roughly shoved Kendall out into the hall, Its time I put the trash out.
He slammed the door in her face and went back to the living room. He stood there are just stared at Duncan for a minute, trying to reign in the rage he had building inside.
Duncan stood and made his way over to Logan.
Look, man, Im sorr..
It was all he got out before Logans fist connected hard with his face. He was knocked back, fell over the coffee table and landed with a crash on the floor.
What the fuck?! Duncan yelled holding his face, I thought you didnt care who she did?!?
Logan was furious, I dont care about her, you fucking idiot! I care about Veronica, You know, the girl youre cheating on with that money hungry whore!!
Duncan hung his head, I he started.
Just shut the fuck up! Logan yelled. Theres no excuse you could come up with that would convince me cheating on Veronica is acceptable!
Duncan slowly pulled himself off the floor and to his feet. He wiped the blood from his split lip on the back of his hand. You still love her, dont you?! he asked, almost accused.
Logan resisted the urge to punch him again. At least one of us does.
I love Veron
If you finish that statement, I will hit you again. Logan cut in. What the fuck is wrong with you? Why would you . How could you do this to her?
Duncan remained silent. He couldnt answer either question.
They let the silence fill the space between them. Logan knew that this was the moment where he and Duncan were no longer friends.
You know, I only stayed around and put myself through the torture of watching Duncan and Veronica couple extraordinaire because I thought she was better off with you. Now I see that wasnt the case at all. Logan shook her head, I only ever slept with Kendall because I couldnt have Veronica.
Are you going to tell her? Duncan asked, fearful.
No. Logan gave Duncan a hard look, You are.
Duncan paled at the idea, No, I cant.
You can and you will! Logan took a step towards Duncan, Or, so help me God, they will never find your body!
---
Veronica stepped off the elevator just in time to see Kendall be shoved out the door. She heard Logans comment about putting the trash out and she couldnt help but smile.
Kendall stood there for a moment, staring at the door before her stunned. Finally she turned away and hurried towards the elevator. She was lost in her own stupor so much that she passed Veronica without noticing her.
Curious as to what just happened, Veronica approached the suite door. Logan had slammed it with enough force that it had bounced on the door jam, not latching and leaving the door slightly ajar.
She opened the door stepping into the suite just in time to hear the sounds of someone being punched, then falling over something to crash to the floor. She froze and listened.
She heard the entire exchange between the two boys. She remained quite and still despite the overwhelming urge to vomit. She wasnt sure she could move. Until
Like father, like son! Duncan hissed in response to Logans comment about not finding the body.
She turned the corner and surprised both boys and herself.
Hes NOTHING like his father! she said forcefully, glaring at Duncan.
Veronica. Duncan whispered horrified. How long have you been there?
Long enough to know that you, apparently, are very much like your father! With the lying, cheating and secret love child on the way. Her voice was surprisingly even. She thought it strange that she wasnt more upset, that she wasnt yelling but all she felt was a calm fury.
Duncan had flinched at the mention of the baby. I was going to tell you about the baby! His tone was desperate, It was just never the right time
Shut up! Veronica snapped at him.
She turned her attention to Logan, Thank you. She wasnt sure what exactly she was thanking him for; for punching Duncan, for confronting him, for trying to make him come clean, for loving her For all of the above.
Logan nodded, he seemed to understand. Thank you he told her quietly.
She knew he meant it for saying that he was not like Aaron. She nodded. Give us a minute? she asked him.
Logan frowned.
Ill be okay. Veronica told him. She reached out and put her hand on his arm. I will, I promise. Just dont go too far.
Logan nodded again, frown still in place. Okay. Ill just be in my room packing the few things that I have. I wont be living here anymore.
Turning Logan walked into his room and was sure not to close the door all the way. If Duncan raised his voice once even a little, Logan wanted to be out there punching him again without any delay.
He picked up the phone and called the front desk. He requested a room under his own name as far way from the Presidential Suite as possible and for a bellman to be sent up as soon as the room was ready.
Packing his belongings didnt take very long. Once he had it all into his bags, he sat on the bed and tried not to listen to the voices in the next room. He could hear Duncan pleading and every now and then caught the low, dangerous tones of Veronica.
It wasnt before long he heard the suite door open and slam shut. Veronicas exit, he thought. He was on his feet and moving before he realized. He wanted to go after her, make sure she was okay.
He opened the bedroom door and was surprised to see Veronica standing there at the threshold.
I told him to get out while I gathered my things from his room. I never want to step foot in here again after today. She explained her voice flat. She looked so small and tired standing there. Logan fought his desire to grab and hug her.
Ive called and gotten my own room. The bellman should be here soon.
Veronica gave a small nod, Ill go get my stuff.
---
The bellman arrived, loaded Logans bags and Veronicas one small bag onto the trolley. He led them out of the room and to the elevator. They were silent as the rode the 5 floors down, the only sound being the cheesy elevator music.
Veronica reached over and took Logans hand in hers without looking up at him. He held it tightly, relieved to be giving her some form of comfort.
Once in the new room, Logan handed the bellman a hundred dollar bill.
Please make sure that Mr.Kane does not find out what room weve moved to.
The bellman nodded as he accepted the bill, Not a problem Mr.Echolls. Ill make sure the front desk knows. The man gave Veronica a small smile and then left, pulling his trolley as he went.
They stood there side by side taking in the room. It was nice, though half the size of the suite upstairs. First off, it only had one bedroom. The sitting area was a decent size, nice couch; a lot of the same decorations filled the room.
Logan was about to speak, when Veronicas cellphone rang. She pulled it out of her pocket and looked at the called ID, afraid to see Duncans name. She sighed in relief when she saw it was her father.
Hey Dad. she moved and sat on the edge of the couch. She had a chipper tone to her voice that Logan knew was forced. He wondered if her father would catch it. Where are you off to this time? No rest for the wicked, huh? Dad, Ill be okay in bed with my face washed and teeth brushed by 10pm! I do not need to stay at the Fennels. You worry far too much old man! Okay, I love you too. Be safe. Bye
She hung up the phone and sat there for a moment just staring off into space. Logan wondered if he should say something and racked his brain for anything to lighten the mood and maybe get a smile out of her.
Logan. She spoke first, Can I take a shower?
Yeah, anything you want. Are you hungry? I could have room service bring up some food for when you get out? Logan jumped at the chance to do anything useful for her.
Im not really hungry. She replied.
Logan mock gasped and covered his mouth, Veronica Mars is not hungry!?! Say it aint so!?! Isnt that a sign of the coming apocalypse?!?
Veronica smiled then, it was small, but it was there and Logan felt proud of himself for coaxing it out. She grabbed her bag, which was mostly her toiletries, a few CDs and an old pair of shorts she liked to sleep in, and headed to the bathroom.
Before she closed the door, she turned back to Logan. Order me anything pasta with a lot of cheese on it.
Logan smiled and nodded while reaching for the phone.
---
Veronica stood staring at herself in the mirror. She rehashed the days events over in her mind. Duncan was not the person she thought he was. Not the sweet boy she fell in love with when she was 14. Then again, she wasnt that sweet girl anymore either. They had changed, in more ways then she cared to think about.
She again thought it strange that she was not more upset. Sure she was upset, but she just thought that there should be more yelling and screaming when you find out your boyfriend was cheating on you. It should hurt more then it did, she should be crying her eyes out.
Instead her calm fury had just turned into a weird indifference. Seeing that Duncan was not the boy she once knew, not the boy she loved she actually felt relieved. She didnt have to pretend anymore. She didnt have to keep up this faade. It had been so tiring.
Tearing her gaze away from herself and the mirror, she turned the shower on and stripped out of her clothes. The water was hot on her skin when she stepped in and she loved the feel of it. It made her feel alive again and not so numb.
---
Logan waited anxiously sitting on the couch. He thought of turning on the TV, but decided against it. He wanted to make sure that he heard Veronica if she called out for anything.
He listened to the sound of the water running in the shower. He wondered how Veronica really was. Other than her phone conversation with her Dad, she hadnt really spoken since she came out of Duncans room carrying her bag. She was distant and withdrawn.
He wondered where her rage had gone. Every other day of the week she wore it proudly, like a badge for everyone to see. But today the day she had such cause and righteous use for it, she remained mute. He hadnt decided if it was a good or bad thing that she hadnt screamed at Duncan. He did, however, know that it was most definitely over between the two of them.
At that thought, Logan couldnt help but smile. He knew that the events of today were not about him, but part of him couldnt help being so completely happy that it was over for Duncan and Veronica couple extraordinaire. Was it selfish? Definitely. Logan didnt care.
The knock on the door pulled Logan from his thoughts. After letting the room service steward in with the trays, he tipped him generously and walked over to the bathroom door. The water had just stopped.
Ronnie. He called through door, The foods here.
Ill be out in a moment. She was her muffled reply.
She came out, one of the hotels fluffy robes wrapped tightly around herself. She looked a little more refreshed and smiled at Logan as he lifted the covers off the food to reveal the contents. There were a few different options; Lasagna, manicotti, spaghetti.
She laughed looking at the plates, Did you order the whole menu?
Only the all the pasta dishes. Logan shrugged, If memory serves me correct, you can pack away a lot of food for a smurf.
Hey! Veronica objected to the use of the word smurf, but she smiled as she took a seat and eyed the lasagna.
They ate in silence for a little bit. Veronica had moved on from the lasagna and was digging into the manicotti. She was surprised to find that she was hungry after all and was glad that Logan ordered so such.
Maybe I should have gotten two orders of that. Logan mused watching her. She only stuck her tongue out at him and kept eating.
Stuffed, they both sat back and sighed.
That was really good. Veronica commented as she stretched leaning back in her seat. She got up and moved toward Logans bags. Without asking she opened the top one, reached in and pulled out a t-shirt. She disappeared into the bathroom briefly, than came back out wearing the t-shirt and her shorts.
It was late and she didnt feel like driving back to her apartment. In truth, she also didnt feel like being anywhere Duncan could possibly find her nor did she want to be alone.
Is it okay if I sleep here tonight Logan? she asked, already knowing the answer.
As long as you want. Logan answered quickly.
Thanks.
You take the room and Ill sleep out here on the couch.
Veronica immediately started to argue with him, but he would hear none of it. She was getting the bed and that was the end of it. No discussion, no changing his mind.
Veronica muttered something about him being stubborn as she walked into the room. She didnt close the door behind her, choosing to leave it open and Logan was relieved.
Logan watched her from the couch as she crawled into the big bed and shifted around trying to get comfortable. Finally she seemed to settle and he sank back into the couch.
He was just starting to drift off the sleep when he heard her call out to him.
Logan? she called again.
Yeah. He got off the couch and moved to stand in the bedroom door.
She fiddled with the hem of the blanket, Could you, maybe, sleep in here? With me? I she inhaled a deep breath and blew it out, I dont want to be alone. She admitted.
Logan made it to the side of the bed in two long strides. He got in under the covers, careful not to crowd her side. He lay on his back and stared up at the ceiling. It had been a while since he was this close, in this way with Veronica. Every part of him wanted to reach over and gather her into his arms, tell her that shed never be alone again and that everything would be okay.
Instead her crossed his arms over his chest and closed his eyes.
Logan? she whispered again after a few minutes.
Yeah? he whispered back, turning his head in her direction.
Did you mean what you said to Duncan earlier? Veronica had wanted to ask Logan that question all night. While they ate, she had replayed the exchange between Duncan and Logan over and over in her mind. Logan protecting her, threatening to kill Duncan for her, dissolving their friendship over her Logan admitting that he loved her.
Every word of it. He answered honestly.
He felt Veronica shift in the bed, moving closer to him. She lifted his arm from his chest and curled up against him. Logan pulled her closer and wrapped his arm around her.
Im sorry. She said into his chest.
For what? Logans surprised voice asked.
For ever leaving you. Veronica looked up at him. I never should have . I dont belong with Duncan. I dont love Duncan, I havent for a long time.
Logan looked down at her, Veronica?
I was just lying to myself, thinking I could get back some of the girl I lost when Lily died. She shook her head, Im not that girl anymore and I dont want to be her ever again. I want to be the girl I am with you, shes the real me now.
Logan was stunned. He actually reached over and pinched himself to make sure that he was indeed awake and hadnt fallen into a lovely dream.
She wasnt coming right out and saying it, but it sounded like she loved him too. She didnt need to say the words, hearing her say that she wanted to be with him was more than enough.
Logan hugged her tighter and kissed the top of her head. I want that too. More than anything.
In the dark, they both smiled to themselves. Neither, when waking up this morning to start the day, would have ever thought that theyd be ending it like this. Neither could think of any other place they wanted to be.
--end--
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