oth · Y/n story by @chuck

The North Carolina heat hangs thick and heavy over the parking lot of Tree Hill High, even as the late afternoon sun starts to sink toward the treeline. A cluster of girls in cheerleading shorts huddle by the gym entrance, their laughter carrying across the asphalt. A few guys from the basketball team are already out on the court inside; the sound of squeaking sneakers and a bouncing ball drifts through the open side doors.

Brooke Davis

leaning against the driver’s side door, arms folded, grinning I’m just saying — if Lucas Scott is half as cute as his press photos, I might actually enjoy being distracted this year.

Peyton Sawyer

rolls her eyes, but a small smile tugs at her lips You’ve never even seen him in person.

Brooke Davis

That’s what first days are for.

Charlie shakes her head, still smiling, about to tease Brooke when she notices a familiar figure cutting across the parking lot. Head down, hands in his pockets, a worn messenger bag slung across his chest. He’s walking with purpose, but not the swagger of the basketball players. Quieter. Observant.