The Ocean Between Us
Part 3: Disaster
by: Tinkerbell

Disclaimer, Category, Thank You's, Rating & Spoilers: See beginning of fic.

Summary: Joey and Pacey finally have a chance at happiness…or do they?

Author's Note: I have spent countless hours in Waffle House's & Huddle House's so trust me when I say that they are great places to contemplate life.

Feedback: I would love some at Twill007@surfsouth.com.

I had no choice but to hear you
You stated your case time and again
I thought about it
You treat me like I'm a princess
I'm not used to liking that
You ask how my day was
You've already won me over in spite of me
Don't be alarmed if I fall head over feet
Don't be surprised if I love you
For all that you are
I couldn't help it
It's all your fault 

Joey stared at the enormous wall, contemplating her work. It was almost finished. She'd been working on it for over a month now, day and night, and the citizens of Capeside had come out in full force to see what the crazy girl on the platform was painting on the old wall next to the hardware store at all hours. Many had come directly to Joey and told her what an amazing job she was doing. Of course Joey thought they were lying but she smiled anyway and graciously accepted their praise. Many of them came every day to check her progress. Joey had her own groupies. She found it quite amusing.

Joey had spent the entire day after her confrontation with Dawson sitting on the ground staring at her wall. By the end of the day she'd only come up with a few ideas and had decided that she would just paint whatever came to mind while she was working. One thing was certain to Joey. There would be a big painting of Pacey right smack in the middle. The space around him would be filled with various scenes that were significant to his life. Just thinking about all the scenes that she could paint had made Joey's head spin. It would take a wall the size of a stadium to fit all the memories that Joey had floating around in her head. After she had decided on what to paint, Joey had went home and jotted down every memorable moment that she had of Pacey. Joey had lost track at two hundred and twenty but it had given her something to work with. The next morning she'd emptied the can of mad money that was hidden in her closet and called Jen, Andie and Jack who had accompanied her to Boston to buy supplies.

"Joey," Andie groaned as she leaned against a shelf of art supplies. "My feet hurt."

"Yeah. We've been around this store at least five times," Jen added, leaning against Jack.

"What exactly are you looking for," Jack asked, gesturing at the overflowing buggy. "We have enough paint, paintbrushes, sealer, and stir sticks to last a lifetime."

Joey shook her head. "I still need a color."

"Joey! We've got every color in the book," Jen exclaimed.

"Yeah," Andie agreed, looking over the contents of the buggy. "We've got white, off white, black, grey, green, sea green, dark blue, red, yellow, brown, sunset orange, cream, peach, purple…" Andie trailed off.

"But we're missing one very important color," Joey protested as she searched the shelves for the color of paint she wanted.

"Joey," Jack said, looking her directly in the eyes. "What color are you missing?"

"Thank you Jack. I'm missing the color…oh."

"What?"

"All of you are going to think I'm nuts," Joey muttered.

"We already do," Jen joked.

"Yeah," Andie agreed.

"So tell us," Jack added.

"I'm looking for the exact color of his…eyes."

Jen, Andie and Jack looked at her incredulously for a moment. Then Andie nodded. "I know what you mean."

Joey looked regretful. "I'm sor-"

"SHH," Andie hissed. "I don't want to hear a word out of you about it." She began searching the shelves. "Let's see."

Jen and Jack watched as Joey and Andie scrounged the store, amused.

Joey saw it sitting high up in a corner. "There it is," she breathed, stepping up onto the bottom shelf and hoisting herself up so that she could pull the can down.

"It's the last one," Jen commented.

"I only need one."

Joey smiled at the memory as she closed the lid on a can of paint. It was hard to describe Pacey's eyes. They were as blue as the sky when he was happy and as dark as stormy waters when he was angry, upset or aroused. But, somehow, she had found one can that could almost do justice to their shade.

"JOEY," a voice yelled from underneath her.

Joey pulled off her headphones and turned her head to look down at the person standing on the ground. "Hey Andie."

Andie smiled as she took in Joey's paint-streaked appearance. "It's looking great."

Joey smiled. "Thanks."

Andie held up a wicker basket. "I brought you some lunch."

Joey shook her head. "I don't have time to eat. Doug's coming home in a few days and I want to have this finished."

Andie nodded. "I figured you'd say that." She reached into the basket and pulled out a purple thermos. "That's why I only brought you some orange flavored Gatorade." Andie walked over to the platform and held up the thermos.

Joey grinned as she took it. "Thanks Andie."

"No problem. I'm the motivated type too."

"Yeah." Joey took a drink and looked back at the wall.

"At least you can work on your tan while you're up there," Andie commented, smiling.

"Yeah," Joey agreed. "I'm surprised someone hasn't come along and tried to arrest me for indecent exposure."

"Joey," Andie said, laughing. "You're wearing shorts and a bathing suit. That's not indecent exposure."

"I know that. But this is Capeside."

"True. But, the old geezers probably enjoy sneaking a peek when you're not looking."

Joey looked at Andie, shocked. "Andie McPhee!"

Andie grinned. "Gotcha!"

Joey laughed. "Thanks for the drink Andie. I really should get back to work though."

"Yeah. Good luck." Andie paused. "You've been up there practically nonstop for over a month now. When do you think you're going to come down from there for more than a few hours a day?"

"When I get finished," Joey answered, turning back to the wall.

Andied nodded. "I figured as much. I'll see you later Joey," she said, a smile on her face.

"Bye." Joey put her headphones back on and picked up her paintbrush. "Let's get back to work," she muttered. As she painted, words from the past filled her head, urging her on, making her smile and giving her strength.

"Well, a funny thing happened. I got in Dawson's rowboat and it magically drifted to your dock."

"Magically drift any closer and I'll kill you."

"Now remember I told you I needed your help for something."

"With what?"

"Start sanding."

"You are so overboard."

"Uh, nothing really. It's just, um, Dawson seems to think that we're doing it."

"Oh, this is rich. Here I am trying to do the right thing. You know, sometimes a guy just can't win."

"I just thought it'd be good if you started with a blank canvas."

"You said it sister. So, who's going to rally the troops?"

"Think back for a second. Remember how this whole thing started? It started with a girl, a wall and a paintbrush."

"I don't want to talk anymore."

"Would you get in the car Potter?"

"Jo, get in bed. While you're at it, get over yourself."

"Pacey, get your butt away from me."

"My butt wants nothing to do with your butt, okay? Give me some of these covers, man."

"Okay. Joey, I'm going to kiss you now."

"I promise to be a good boy."

"You're the witch riding the broomstick."

"Why Pacey Witter? Do I turn you on?"

"Yeah. You do."

"Yeah, I guess this is kind of embarrassing, huh? Especially for you, considering how much you've protested."

"I'll renew the lease first thing in the morning."

"Well, because you told me. Six months ago. You were wearing that, uh, blue sweater with the snowflakes that you have. You were walking down the hallways at school. I was annoying you as per usual. You said: 'Look, Pacey, I just found my mother's bracelet this morning so why don't you cut me some slack?"

"What took you so long?"

Joey stuck the paintbrush between her teeth and inspected her work. The scene was almost finished and it was the last one that she had to paint…for now. The only thing left was Pacey's eyes and the sky around them. She would finish it tomorrow.

****************

Your love is thick and it swallowed me whole
You're so much braver than I gave you credit for
That's not lip service
You are the bearer of unconditional things
You held your breath and the door for me
Thanks for your patience

You're the best listener I've ever met 
You're my best friend
Best friend with benefits
What took me so long

I've never felt this healthy before
I've never wanted something rational
I am aware now
I am aware now 

Joey picked up a can of sealer and sprayed the last scene. Satisfied, she climbed down from the platform and stood on the ground gazing up at the wall.

"Please let Pacey like it," she whispered.

"He'll take one look at it and he'll cry," Jen said, walking over to her. They stood and gazed up at the wall together. "You down for the night?"

"Yeah. You really think he'll like it?"

"Oh yeah. Joey, even if Pacey is still leery about whether you're telling the truth when you talk to him, all he has to do is look at this wall and he's going to know."

Joey flashed her a grateful smile. "Thanks for saying that Jen."

Jen shrugged. "It's the truth."

Joey was silent for a moment. "Doug's coming back tomorrow evening."

"Yeah. Are you scared?"

Joey looked at Jen. "Of course I'm scared! What if Doug thinks that I'm just some heinous witch because I hurt his little brother and he refuses to tell me where Pacey is?"

Jen put an arm around Joey's shoulders. "Joey. I really don't think that's going to happen."

"How do you know," Joey demanded.

Jen chuckled. "Joey, Joey, Joey. Calm down. It'll be okay."

Joey let out a long sigh. "Okay. I'm calm."

"Good."

They stared at the wall in silence. Jen noticed a blank space at the bottom and pointed to it. "What are you going to paint there?"

Joey shrugged. "I'm not sure yet."

"As in 'I don't know' or as in 'it depends on Pacey's response'"?

"As in 'I don't know'," Joey answered, gazing at the white space. "Pacey's either going to be with me or he's not. I can't make him choose me. I hope he does…but this wall is not about him choosing. This wall is about how much he means to me…how much he means to all of us."

"It's gorgeous Joey," Jen said sincerely.

"Thanks Jen." Joey picked up the box that held her art supplies. "You want to come over for dinner?"

Jen smiled. "You're not cooking are you?"

Joey glared at her. "No. Bessie is."

Jen grinned. "Sure Joey."

"Great. Let's go." They started down the street. "My cooking is not that bad," Joey said, defending herself.

Jen smirked. "No, if you like rubber chicken and lumpy mashed potatoes, it's great."

Joey rolled her eyes. "Like you're the queen of culinary masterpieces."

"Never said I was," Jen said.

"Uh-huh."

"Let's just hope that Pacey doesn't mind ordering out every night," Jen joked.

Joey's face fell.

"I'm kidding," Jen exclaimed.

"Oh. I knew that," Joey said, beginning to laugh. "Besides, I plan on taking some culinary classes in college so I can cook my own meals."

Jen burst into laughter.

Joey glared at her for a moment then joined in. "What the hell am I saying," Joey managed between giggles.

"I have no idea," Jen agreed. "It must be all that paint thinner."

"Yeah."

They had made it to the Potter's front steps by then and continued laughing as they opened the door. "Bessie," Joey yelled as they came through the front door. "Set another plate for dinner."

After they had gone inside and closed the door, a figure stepped out from the shadows and began walking back towards town.

****************

Sometimes I love you
Sometimes I hate you
When I hate you
It's because I love you
That's how I am
So what can I do
I'm happy when I'm with you 

Joey sat in bed, too nervous to sleep. Tomorrow, Doug would be home and she would find out about Pacey. Joey hoped that Doug would tell her where Pacey was…without having to threaten him bodily harm. Odds were that she would spend the night in jail and Joey really didn't want to do that. Plus, Pacey would never speak to her again if she attacked his brother in a temporary fit of insanity. Joey smiled at the route her thoughts were taking. She really needed to calm down. There was absolutely nothing to worry about. Doug had helped her once before…he'd do it again. Needing to vent some of her thoughts, Joey reached over and picked her journal up off the nightstand.
 

July 12, 2000

Doug is coming home tomorrow. I'm ecstatic and scared out of mind at the same time. What if he won't let me talk to Pacey? What if Doug refuses to tell me where Pacey is or even how he's doing? I swear, I could probably kill Doug if he did that to me. I HAVE to talk to Pacey. It's the only way that I can make things right between us. I have to let him know that I love him and that I want to be with him…forever.

I realize that "forever" is a very serious word and it's not one that I'm saying lightly. I've had a lot of time to think about this and I KNOW that I want to spend the rest of my life with Pacey. Isn't that strange? All this time I've been searching for something that was right under my nose. It's rather ironic when I think about it…but that's all right. No one ever said that life was simple. Or easy. Or that we can always see what's right in front of us. Sometimes we just need a little push. And I got a hell of a shove.

I still have not heard from Dawson since the day that I gave him the sketch. I wonder about him every day but that's not unexpected. I know that I will still care about him…even if he decides to never speak to or see me again. I think that would be a loss for both of us but I cannot make him be my friend again. And I'm sad that apparently he's decided to no longer be a part of my life. I'd hoped that he would be able to get past all this…but maybe I didn't know him as well as I thought I did. Or maybe he just needs more time. With my new, quasi-optimistic, view of the world I think I'll go with the second choice. But, I hope that he comes back soon because I miss him.

Jen came over for dinner tonight. She really has changed from when she first arrived here almost two years ago. She was telling me that I needed to look on the bright side of things and that Pacey would be a complete idiot not to believe me and give me another chance. It's rather amusing to see her doing a complete 180. I never would have thought that we would be as close as we are now…but people can surprise you. All I need to confirm that is to look at Pacey.

 
I've almost completed the wall. There's space for one scene left but for some reason I have nothing that I want to paint there yet. I think I'm waiting for something…but I have no idea what it is. Maybe I'll leave it blank to represent our future…because I have no idea what is going to happen. All I know is what I want to happen…what I'm hoping will happen. So…I think that I will leave it blank, for now, until I find what our future will hold.

Jen, Bessie, Andie, Jack…they all tell me that everything will work out the way that I want it to. But, I'm still nervous. Maybe Pacey's given up on me. Maybe he's found someone else. Maybe he doesn't love me anymore. I have all these "maybe's" swimming in my head but no real answers. I'm hoping that all of my questions will be answered soon and that I will get the answers I'm praying for.

****************

Round here she's always on my mind
Round here hey man got lots of time
Round here we're never sent to bed early
And nobody makes us wait
Round here we stay up very, very, very, very late
I can't see nothing, nothing round here

Pacey Witter glanced at the sky. Watching the sun rise each morning and set each evening had become two of his favorite activities during his trip. The sun was setting now and he was about to dock in Charleston. Hopefully, Doug would be home and wouldn't mind talking to his imbecile of a little brother for awhile. The quiet was starting to really depress Pacey and he needed to talk to someone who would understand and say something to make him feel better. Pacey watched as the sun began to sink in the sky and felt his heart sinking with it. It was a beautiful sunset, one that reminded Pacey of another sunset he'd been privy to. As he watched the spectacle in front of him, Pacey let his thoughts drift back to another time and place.

I could stay awake just to hear you breathing
Watch you smile while you are sleeping
While you're far away and dreaming
I could spend my life in this sweet surrender
I could stay lost in this moment forever
Well, every moment spent with you 
Is a moment I treasure
I don't wanna close my eyes
I don't wanna fall asleep
'Cause I'd miss you, baby
And I don't wanna miss a thing 

"Potter, hurry up! You're going to miss it," Pacey urged, as she fiddled with the camera.

"I'm hurrying," Joey grumbled, setting the timer. "There."

Pacey motioned for her to come on.

Joey rolled her eyes and sauntered over to where he was standing by the water. "Okay. I'm here now. Are you happy?"

Pacey grinned. "Yes."

Joey smiled in spite of herself. He looked so cute when he grinned. "Good. Glad I could make you happy."

Pacey gazed at her intently. "You do," he said seriously.

Joey gazed back at him, unable to say anything.

Pacey turned his gaze to the sunset. "Here we go."

"So, why did you want the timer set," Joey asked, confused. "Why didn't you just let me take a picture of the sunset?"

"Because I wanted us in it," Pacey said simply, wrapping one arm around her waist and pulling her gently against him.

"Pacey. What are you doing?"

"This." Pacey leaned in and kissed Joey softly as the sky turned from orange to red and the camera flashed. Joey reveled in the kiss, thinking how right it felt but too scared to say so. Pacey ran his fingers through her hair, feeling his heart swelling with happiness. He finally released her and gazed into her eyes. She returned his look and the camera flashed again. Finally, Pacey broke the silence.

"We should be heading home."

Joey shook her head. "Don't want to."

"Well, I don't want to get you in trouble with Bessie, Jo."

"You won't. I left Bessie a note saying that I would be really late getting home tonight because I wanted to do some late night studying at the library."

Pacey raised his eyebrows, surprised. "For someone who rarely sneaks out, you certainly make sure your tracks are covered, don't you?"

Joey glared at him. "Bite me Pacey."

"Happily," he mumbled, leaning over and gently biting her neck.

Joey threw her head back and enjoyed the sensations that Pacey's lips were evoking.

Finally, he pulled away. "So, you want to go swimming?"

Joey looked at Pacey, incredulous. "I didn't bring my suit."

"I know," he said, wiggling his eyebrows suggestively.

"Pacey Witter," Joey exclaimed, but she was laughing.

"So…you wanna?"

Joey chewed on her lip thoughtfully and Pacey had to resist the urge to tackle her to the ground and kiss her senseless. Then she nodded. "All right."

Pacey's eyes widened. "Jo, I didn't really mean that we had to. I was just messing around."

"I know." Joey shrugged. "But why not? You only live once right? And, if you ask me, I haven't been living enough." She winked at him. "So…what do you say Witter?"

Pacey stared at her for a minute. "Hell yeah!"

Joey laughed. "Okay…but you have to promise to be a gentleman."

Pacey put his hand over his heart. "I promise."

"Good. I'll turn around for you and you turn around for me."

"Sounds like a plan," Pacey said, still not believing that they were actually going to do this.

Joey nodded and turned around. "Go ahead. I promise I won't peak."

Pacey laughed. "Okay Jo." Pacey quickly discarded his clothing and walked down to the edge of the water. He turned around. Sure enough, her back was turned. Pacey grinned and dived into the water.

Joey heard the splash. "Is it okay for me to get undressed now?"

"Yeah," he called, turning around.

Joey checked to make sure that he wasn't peeking and then shed her clothes, placing them next to his. She went to the water and walked towards him until she was submerged in water up to her shoulders. "Okay."

Pacey turned back around. There she was. Standing only a few feet away from him…completely nude. Pacey had to force himself to calm down. "See…that wasn't so bad, was it," he asked, swimming around her.

Joey smirked. "Nope."

Pacey smiled at her and splashed her in the face.

Joey glared at him for a moment then splashed him back. Soon they were involved in their own water war, laughing, splashing, and making sure to keep certain body parts hidden from view.

Finally Pacey threw up his hands. "Okay. I give, I give. You win."

"Thank you," Joey drawled, scooting a little closer to him.

Pacey knew what she was fixing to do and he grabbed her wrist and pulled her against him without even thinking about it. "Uh uh. Naughty Joey," he muttered.

Joey felt her heart rate increase and her breathing speed up. "Oh really?"

"Yeah. Not gonna work. I've got three sisters and a brother. I know when someone's trying to pull the wool over my eyes."

Joey smiled seductively. "Would I do that?"

"Hell yes," he said, giving her a knowing stare.

Joey smiled. "You know me too well Pace."

"Likewise," he replied, trying not to think about the fact that her breasts were squashed against his chest and Joey had to feel what she was doing to him.

As if on cue, Joey gave him a naughty smile. "Why Pacey Witter? Do I turn you on?"

The question surprised Pacey. He couldn't make his tongue work for a moment. Joey just stared at him, amused. Finally, he found his voice. "Yeah. You do," he whispered.

"Thought so," she replied.

Pacey felt her own response to him and he gazed at her with a mocking grin. "Do I turn you on, Joey Potter?"

Joey didn't even try to lie. "Yes," she whispered.

Pacey groaned and brought his mouth down upon hers in a searing kiss. Joey forgot all about barriers and wrapped her arms around his bare chest, loving the way his skin felt when it was wet. Pacey gasped in surprise and then brought his own arms around her, crushing her against him. They both knew that this shouldn't be happening but neither of them cared. Pacey finally, reluctantly, released her mouth and gazed deeply into her eyes.

"Joey…"

"Yeah, I know," she replied. "We should get going."

"Yeah. You first."

"Okay."

Pacey turned around and Joey got out of the water, toweled off with the blanket and hastily put her clothes back on. "Okay. I'm gonna get the camera and my sketchbook and put them in the truck while you get dressed."

"Good idea," Pacey replied, waiting until she was out of sight to get out of the water. He dried himself off and was reaching for his pants when he heard a gasp behind him. Pacey stilled but didn't turn around. "Forget something Jo," he called out over his shoulder.

Joey had come back for the camera, having forgotten it in her haste to get away, and found Pacey bare-assed. She hastily turned around. "Sorry Pace."

"Josephine Potter," he cajoled. "Are you checking out my ass?"

Joey couldn't help but grin. "Yeah. You know I've heard that it's top of the line and I just had to see for myself."

Pacey laughed. "Grade A baby."

Joey turned red with suppressed giggles. "I'm going to the truck," she managed as she quickly walked away.

Pacey heard her laughing as she went and smiled as he quickly finished dressing. He picked up the blanket and ran to catch up with her.

Pacey sighed. That had been a wonderful day. It seemed like ages ago when in reality it had only been a few months. Pacey reached into his journal and pulled out a picture. It was one of them kissing by the water. Joey had made them both copies of each photo. He ran his hand over the picture, his fingers caressing her face. God, how he missed her. He replaced the photo in the journal and zipped it up.

Pacey saw the marina and turned True Love in its direction. Once he was safely docked, Pacey grabbed his wallet and jacket, got off the boat and went looking for a telephone to call Doug.

****************

All five of them jumped when the telephone rang and sprang to their feet. Bessie was the fastest and got there first. "Hello," she said breathlessly.

"One very tired Douglas Witter just left on his way home," Bodie informed her, chuckling.

"Thanks Bodie. I'll see you later."

"Yeah. Love ya Bess."

"Love you too." Bessie hung up the phone and turned around. Four expectant pairs of eyes met hers and she burst into laughter.

"BESSIE," Joey fumed. "Don't do this to me!"

Bessie tried to control her laughter. "I-I'm sorry Jo. It's just you-you look so wired."

Joey rolled her eyes. "Come on Bessie."

"Yeah," Jack piped up, going over to Joey and putting a casual arm around her shoulders. "Don't keep us in suspense."

"Yeah," Andie chimed in.

Jen nodded her head in agreement.

Bessie held up her hands. "Fine. Bodie said that Doug just left the restaurant on his way home."

Joey's face paled and Jack gave her a reassuring hug.

"You're going to be fine Joey," he told her. "Just relax."

"But-but-what if he won't talk to me."

"Not likely," Andie said from her seat at the kitchen table.

"Yeah. You're right. I've just got to calm down," Joey screeched, beginning to pace around the room. Jen, Jack, Andie and Bessie watched her with amused expressions on their faces. They'd never seen Joey so nervous. Finally she stopped pacing. "Okay. I'm ready. Jen, come with me? Just in case someone has to pull me off him."

"Sure," Jen said, getting up from the table and heading after Joey who was already walking out the front door. "Wish us luck."

"Luck," the other three said in unison as the door shut behind Jen.

****************

Doug Witter sighed as he shut the door behind him with his foot.

"Ah, home sweet home," he mumbled between the mail that was stuck between his teeth. He placed the bag of food that was in his hands on the table and began putting stuff away. After spending over a month training soon-to-be cops Doug was ready for some peace and quiet. And some quality time with his divas and going through the load of messages from Pacey that Doug was sure was on his new answering machine. He'd just finished putting away his food when someone began pounding on his door.

"What the hell," he muttered as he went over to the door. He opened it and stared at the person in front of him. "J-Joey? What are you doing here? Aren't you supposed to-" he was cut off as Joey brushed past him into the apartment.

"Hey Doug," Jen said with a smile on her face. "Mind if we come in?"

Doug shook his head, still in shock.

"Thanks."

Doug shut the door after Jen and walked over to the couch where Joey was standing. "What brings you here?"

"Where's Pacey," Joey demanded.

Doug stared at her. "What do you mean? The last time I talked to you, you went after him."

Joey frowned. "I missed him."

"Man," Doug said with a frown.

"Have you heard from him," Joey asked. "I really, really need to find him."

"No. But I haven't checked my messages yet. I'm sure he's called."

"Well, can you do it now? Please? I really needed to find him. I have to tell him something."

Doug nodded. "It's about time Joey."

"Please don't start. I already feel bad enough as it is."

"Sorry." Doug paused. "Can I eat first?"

Joey glared at him.

Doug held up his hands in a warding off gesture. "O-okay. Checking the machine right now."

Jen sat down on the couch and patted the place next to her. "Joey. Sit."

Joey plopped down on the couch next to Jen and began wringing her hands.

Jen rose her eyebrows in amusement. "Joey, calm down."

"I'm sorry. It's just…what if something has happened to him or-"

"Don't even go there Joey," Jen cut her off.

Doug was just about to press the 'play' button on his machine when the phone rang. Doug jumped, startled as Jen and Joey sprang from the couch.

"Pick it up," Joey snapped.

"Okay, okay," Doug yelled back, picking up the phone. "Hello."

"Doug," Pacey said, leaning against the inside of the phone booth.

Doug's face broke into a smile. "Hey. How are you?"

"Not so good Dougie."

"What's wrong," Doug asked.

Joey stomped her foot. "Doug, is that Pacey?"

Pacey's heart skipped a beat. "Doug? Who's there with you?"

Doug didn't hear Pacey because Joey was barreling towards him.

"Is that Pacey," she demanded.

"Yes."

Joey's eyes widened. "Give me the phone."

"Don't you think I should talk to him first…make sure that he wants to talk to you?"

"Doug, is that Joey," Pacey asked, confused at the ruckus he could hear over the line.

"DOUG," Joey yelled, reaching for the phone. "GIVE ME THE PHONE!"

Doug was a little scared. Joey looked wild. He nervously held out the phone and she snatched it from his hands.

"Thank you."

"Doug," Pacey tried again.

"Pacey," Joey said into the receiver.

Pacey froze. He couldn't say anything.

"Pacey," Joey repeated.

Finally, Pacey found his voice. "Hey Jo."

Joey let out a huge breath that she hadn't even realized she was holding and felt tears of relief spring up in her eyes. "Thank god you're okay."

Pacey was having a hard time believing that he was actually talking to Joey and an even harder time believing that she was actually concerned about his safety. "How are you Jo?"

Joey clutched the phone tightly in her hands. "I'm alright. And you?"

"No complaints," he said thinly.

Joey found Jen's eyes and she made a "go for it" gesture. Joey took a deep breath. "P-Pacey. I know that I'm probably the last person that you want to talk to right now but I have to talk to you."

Pacey sighed. "What is there left to say Joey?"

"So much more than you realize Pacey," Joey said honestly.

Pacey tried not to notice how truthful she sounded. "Joey. I really don't know what you could possibly have to say to me that could make this any better."

Joey felt tears spring to her eyes. "Please Pacey. I have something that I have to tell."

"What?"

"I can't tell you over the phone."

"Then it must not be very important," Pacey quipped.

Joey felt a tear slide down her cheek. "It is. I have something that I have to tell you…but it has to be in person."

Pacey noticed that she sounded near tears. "Dammit Jo. Don't do this."

Joey felt her heart thudding to the floor. Jen walked over and put an arm around her. Joey gave her a grateful look. "Pacey, where are you?"

"Why?"

"Where are you?"

"Charleston."

"Are you staying there for a few days?"

"No. Why are you asking me this," Pacey asked, perplexed.

"Pacey, I HAVE to see you!"

"Jo, I don't think that's a good idea," Pacey began, feeling tears of his own forming.

Joey closed her eyes. "Pacey, please. Please tell me where you're going so I can meet you there."

"WHAT," Pacey yelled, shocked.

Joey flinched. "I want to meet you at the next port. Where are you going?"

Pacey shook his head. "Nuh-uh. Jo, don't do this to me. Don't do this to yourself."

"Pacey, I'm trying to fix things," Joey snapped.

Pacey didn't say anything.

Joey tried once more. "Please, please Pacey," Joey begged. "Please tell me where you're going. I want to meet you. I have to tell you something. It's very important but I have to say it in person. Please tell me."

Pacey felt his resolve melting. "All right Jo," he said softly.

Joey gripped the phone tighter and a smile spread over her face. "Thank you Pacey."

"Yeah." Pacey paused. "In two days I'll dock in Savannah."

Joey bit her lip. How was she going to get there?

"Jo, how are you going to get all the way down to Savannah?"

Doug noticed the look on Joey's face. "I'll take you," he said, loud enough so that Pacey could hear him. Joey shot Doug a grateful look.

Pacey sighed. "All right Jo. You got what you wanted. I'll see you in Savannah in two days…let's say seven at the docks."

Joey felt tears of relief falling down her cheeks. "Not yet I don't," she told him softly. "But I'm hoping I will soon. I'll see you there."

"Yeah." Pacey paused. "And Jo?"

"Yeah?"

"This is the last time I'm doing this."

"I understand."

They hung up.

Joey stood there for a moment then flung her arms around Jen, who returned her hug. "Oh my God," Joey exclaimed, feeling tears coursing down her cheeks but unable to stop them. "He actually said yes!"

"See, I told you he would," Jen commented, happy that everything was going well.

Doug stood back staring at the two girls. Joey let go of Jen and launched herself on him, hugging him fiercely. "Thank you Doug," she whispered. "You'll never know how much this means to me."

Doug smiled as he returned her hug. "Just make sure that you guys send me an invitation to the wedding."

Joey hugged him tighter.

"Okay…uh, Joey? You're cutting off my circulation," Doug said gently.

"Oh!" Joey hastily released him and stood back, grinning at him sheepishly. "Sorry."

"It's okay." Doug checked his watch. "If we're going to get there on time we need to go soon."

"Right," Joey said, looking over at Jen. "Do you think you could come with me?"

Jen smiled. "Sure Joey. I just need to go to my house and let Grams know what's going on."

Joey smacked her forehead. "I have to go home and tell Bessie…and get the picture."

Doug looked at Joey curiously. "What picture?"

Joey blushed. "It's just something that I-that I need to show him."

It was obviously an embarrassing subject for Joey so Doug dropped it. "Alright. Let's go."

Joey, Jen and Doug filed out of the apartment, headed for the truck.

****************

Twenty Minutes Later

Joey looked around her room. She had the photo, her jacket in case it rained and what little money she had left after painting expenses. Satisfied that she had everything she needed, Joey turned off the light and went back to the kitchen.

Doug, Jen, Bessie, Andie and Jack were waiting on her.

"Ready," she said, giving Bessie a huge hug.

"Take care of yourself Jo," Bessie said.

"I will. I don't know when I'll-"

Bessie cut her off. "You don't even have to tell me."

Joey smiled. "Thanks Bessie."

"Yeah. Good luck."

Jack picked Joey up in a bear hug and swung her around. "Go for the kill Joey," he told her.

Joey laughed as she hugged him back. "Thanks Jack."

Andie gave Joey a warm hug. "Kiss him for both of us," she told her softly.

Joey nodded; an understanding between them. Then she turned to Jen. "You ready?"

"Yeah. Grams gave me some money for gas and food."

"She didn't have to do that."

"Sure she did. You're like one of her own grandkids now," Jen said, smiling.

"Let's go," Doug said, ushering the two girls out of the house. "I'll take good care of them," he told Bessie.

"I know you will," she replied.

Jen and Joey got in the truck and buckled their seatbelts.

"Gals, I know this might seem like a really insensitive question," Doug began as he cranked up the car and backed it out of the Potter's driveway.

They looked at him expectantly.

"But do you think that we could grab something to eat at the first fast food place we find?"

Jen and Joey burst into laughter.

"Sure Doug," Joey said, amused. "The last thing I need is for you to die of starvation before I get to Pacey."

Doug rolled his eyes. "Nice to know you care."

All three of them laughed as they drove past the "You are now leaving Capeside. Come back soon" sign and headed towards the unknown.

****************

When you love someone, you'll sacrifice
You'd give it everything you got 
And you won't think twice
You'd risk it all, no matter what may come
When you love someone 

Pacey Witter sat at his booth in a Waffle House, listening to the jukebox and contemplating his life.

"What the hell have I just done," Pacey muttered to himself.

His waitress came over with his cheeseburger plate. "Here you go sug," she told him, placing the steaming plate in front of him. "Enjoy."

"Thanks," Pacey said, smothering his burger in ketchup. He ate in silence. It was almost deserted in the restaurant and Pacey was thankful for the quiet. As soon as he finished his burger he took out his journal.

 
July 13, 2000

I, Pacey Witter, have gone insane. In a fit of what can only be called insanity, I have agreed to meet Joey Potter in Savannah in two days. What the hell is wrong with me? I know what's going to happen…but for some reason I still want to be wrong. Why would a woman like Joey want anything to do with a loser like me? Maybe she feels sorry for me, maybe she wants to laugh in my face, maybe she wants to apologize…or maybe, just maybe, she wants to be with me. I should not even dare to think that she could actually want me but what do I know? I've been wrong before. I could be wrong again, right?

Doug's bringing her. By the time they get here, Joey will want to throttle him for countless hours of VH1 Diva's Live in the CD player. That would definitely be a sight to see. Actually, they will both be a sight for sore eyes. I wonder if she'll get there first? I wonder if I'll get there first and see her coming? I wonder if I'll wait for her and she never shows? I wonder so many things….

I realize that I'm rambling but I can't stop myself. I have so much swimming around inside my head that I have to release some of it…and there's no Matt Caulfield in sight to beat the shit out of. So, I'll just sit here and write in this journal, which is getting very full by the way. I wonder if this journal was god's way of giving me a sign. "Get ready Pacey. Hell is coming." I know that sounds horrible, but maybe it's true.

I've done too much thinking on this trip. I know that. I've thought of turning around, I've thought of never going back, I've thought of sailing as far as my boat will take me and starting over wherever I end up…. But, the truth is, I could never walk away from Joey forever.

That's one thing that has not changed in my month and a half away from Capeside. I have not stopped loving Joey...even a little bit. If anything I love her more. Isn't that crazy? Don't ask me how that is because I have no idea. There are a lot of things that I don't know...even if I am a smartass and act like I know everything. I don't. What does Joey "have" to say to me in person? I pray that it's something that I want to hear. But right now I'm scared because I know what I want…I'm just used to not getting it. 


Pacey sighed and closed the journal. It was time to get out of here. He would find out soon enough. Pacey quickly paid for his meal and made his way back to the docks where True Love was waiting on him. Pacey paused and gazed at the boat for a moment. Joey was meeting him…and True Love. Was that a sign? Maybe things would turn out the way he wanted them to after all. Pacey untied the boat and headed towards his destination. Joey.

****************

It had begun to rain six hours ago. They'd been driving almost non-stop for almost two days. Joey was ready to commit murder. Jen was right behind her.

"Oh Doug," Joey said sweetly.

"Yes Joey?"

"Could you please kill the divas for awhile?"

Doug looked hurt. "Why? Don't you just love Barbara and Mariah and Whitney…" he trailed off, giving them a nasty grin.

Jen covered her ears and Joey stuck out her tongue.

"I take that as a no," Doug said, frowning.

"Yeah," Joey replied. "Couldn't we find a radio station that maybe has some songs that we could all sing like divas to?"

Doug seemed to like this idea. "Great."

Joey gratefully ejected Doug's Diva's Live CD and began flipping through radio stations. She found one that all three of them immediately went "OOH! I KNOW THAT ONE!" They began to sing. Joey was right on key, Jen actually sounded pretty good but Doug, well, Doug would never get an audition for Broadway.

There's something wrong with the world today
I don't know what it is
Something's wrong with our eyes
We're seeing things in a different way
And god knows it ain't his
It sure ain't no surprise

We're livin' on the edge 

Jen and Joey exchanged amused glances as Doug began beating on the steering wheel along with the drums. "You take this one Joey," he said, going around a slow-moving station wagon. "Jen and I will join in at the chorus."

Joey chuckled and began singing the next verse.

There's something wrong with the world today
The light bulb's getting dim
There's a melt down in the sky
If you can judge a wise man
By the color of his skin
Then mister you're a better man than I 

Jen and Doug began singing with her, their voices filling the confines of the truck as it sped down the interstate.

We're livin' on the edge
You can't help yourself from fallin'
Livin' on the edge
You can't help yourself at all
Livin' on the edge
You can't stop yourself from fallin'
Livin' on the edge
Joey looked at Jen. "It's your turn."

Jen shrugged, picked up an empty soda bottle to use as a microphone and started singing.

Tell me what you think about your situation
Complication-aggravation
Is getting to you
If Chicken Little tells you that the sky is fallin'
And even if it wasn't would you still come crawlin' back again?
I think you would my friend
Again & again & again & again & again

Jen reached over and tagged Doug. "Your turn Diva Boy."

Doug glared at her for a moment then picked up the song.

Something right with the world today
And everybody knows it's wrong
But we can tell 'em no or we can let it go
But I would rather be hanging on

Jen and Joey joined Doug for the finale of the song. People that were passing by in their cars gawked at the two girls and the man in the police truck, belting out a song that they couldn't hear.

Livin' on the edge
You can't help yourself from fallin'
You can't help yourself at all
Livin' on the edge
You can't stop yourself from fallin'
Livin' on the edge
You can't help yourself
You can't help yourself
Livin' on the edge
You can't help yourself at all
You can't help yourself
Livin' on the edge
You can't stop yourself from fallin'
Livin' on the edge

The song ended and the three of them burst into laughter.
"Well…that wasn't so bad, was it," Joey asked, wiping her eyes.

"Nope," Jen agreed with an evil smirk. "If you discount Michael Crawford over there."

Doug shot Jen a dirty look. "I never said I was Michael Crawford."

Jen and Joey laughed and Doug joined them. When they had calmed down Joey began flipping through radio stations again…searching for another song.

"Damn," Doug mumbled, adjusting the windshield wipers to a higher setting. "This storm's getting bad."

"I hope Pacey's not in it," Joey said softly.

Jen gave her a reassuring smile. "I'm sure he's fine, Jo."

Doug nodded. "Yeah. Dad told him to stay close to shore anyway."

Joey looked at him. "When does Pacey ever do what he's told?"

Doug grinned. "Good point." He paused as he took in her worried expression. "Relax, Joey. I'm sure he's fine."

Jen's stomach grumbled and she looked sheepishly over at Doug. "I don't suppose we could stop for some food?"

"And who was it that laughed at me when I asked that same question when we first started this trip," he mocked, giving her a cheesy grin.

Joey laughed as her own stomach began talking.

"See, I'm not the only one," Jen complained good-naturedly.

Doug started to say something but his stomach chose that moment to let him and everyone else in the truck know that it didn't appreciate being deprived of food.

Jen and Joey shot him knowing looks.

"All right, all right," he said, turning the truck off at the next exit. "We're going to find a diner and get something to eat. Maybe this storm will have let up a little by the time we're done."

****************

Jack, Andie and Bessie sat on the front porch of the Potter's celebrating what they hoped would be a happy reunion for Pacey and Joey.

"I wonder if they've made it there yet," Jack mused, taking a sip of his ice tea.

"I wonder what Pacey's going to look like after a month and a half on the open sea," Andie cracked, unable to stifle the giggles that sprung to her mouth at the image of Pacey with a beard, shaggy hair and a tan.

Her giggles were contagious and soon all three of them were laughing like loons.

"What's so funny," a voice said.

They turned around to see Dawson standing on the lawn looking at them.

"Dawson! Hi," Andie said, giving him a smile.

"Hey Andie. Jack, Bessie."

"Have a seat," Bessie said, gesturing towards the vacant one next to Jack.

"I can't stay. I was looking for Jen. She hasn't been to work…Mrs. Ryan won't tell me where she is. Do you guys know where she went?"

Jack, Andie and Bessie exchanged guilty looks.

Dawson looked around. "Where's Joey?"

No one said anything.

Dawson stared at them, upset. "Are any of you going to tell me anything?"

"Jen and Joey are together," Bessie said finally, looking down at her glass of ice tea.

"And where would they be 'together'," Dawson asked, afraid to find out the answer.

Andie sighed. "Doug took them to Pacey."

Dawson's jaw dropped. "What?"

"They're meeting Pacey in Savannah," Jack finished, looking at him sympathetically.

"Dawson, we weren't going to tell you," Andie began.

"And why is that," Dawson demanded, his voice shaking slightly.

"Because we didn't want to hurt you."

"I'm always the last one to know everything," Dawson muttered. He looked at the three of them sitting on the porch. "Thanks anyway. I'll see you around."

Andie got to her feet. "Hey Dawson!"

Dawson didn't turn around.

"Should I go after him," Andie asked.

"No," Bessie said. "Let him be."

Andie watched Dawson's shoulders slump. She understood his pain. "Bess, Jack, I'll be right back."

"Andie," Jack began. "Maybe you should-"

"Jack, if anyone can get through to Dawson…it'll be me."

Jack nodded. "Okay. Just don't let him upset you."

"I won't." Andie started down the lawn after Dawson. She caught up with him as he began pushing his boat back in the water.

"DAWSON! WAIT," Andie called, running up to him.

"Andie, just leave me alone," Dawson said, stepping into the boat.

"I can't."

"Why not?"

"Because I understand what you're going through," she said quietly.

Dawson scoffed. "How would you know?"

Andie flinched. "I know what it's like to be in love with someone when they're not in love with you back."

Dawson froze. "I didn't even think about that. I'm sorry Andie."

"No, no. Don't be. I just-I understand your pain because it's mine too."

Dawson actually managed a smile.

"So…I just want you to know that I'm here anytime you want to talk."

Dawson extended his hand to her. "How does now sound?"

Andie smiled and accepted it as he helped her into the boat. "That sounds fine."

****************

The trio in the truck had mellowed out considerably. In less than six hours they would meet Pacey in Savannah. Joey's stomach had been in knots ever since they'd ate breakfast that morning. Finally, she had to ask Doug to pull over where she jumped out of the truck and puked her guts out on the side of the road, getting thoroughly drenched in the process.

"Try not to be too nervous Joey," Doug told her as he pulled the truck back onto the highway.

Joey looked at him. "Why not?"

"Because you have absolutely nothing to worry about."

Jen gave Joey a pointed look. "Didn't we all tell you the same thing? And this is coming from Pacey's brother. You have to believe him. They're related."

"Wonderful logic Jen," Joey joked, leaning back in her seat. "Umph."

Doug looked over at Joey sympathetically. "Why don't you take a nap Joey?"

"If anyone needs a nap, it's you Doug. You've been driving practically nonstop for almost two days," Joey protested.

"I'm fine. I'm an officer of the law. I'm used to days without sleep. You, on the other hand, have to be fresh so that you can outwit my little brother."

Joey chuckled. "Okay."

"I'll keep him from falling asleep," Jen promised.

"Okay. Don't let me sleep too long," Joey said closing her eyes. It only took her a few moments to fall asleep.

Jen and Doug smiled knowingly.

"Did you see the wall," Jen asked Doug when they were sure that Joey was asleep.

"Yeah," Doug said softly. "It's beautiful."

"You're telling me. She's worked on it practically nonstop since Pacey left."

"Wow. She's very dedicated."

"Joey loves Pacey," Jen said simply. "He leased the wall to show her how much he loves her and this is the way that Joey can show him how much she loves him."

"Young love, ain't it grand," Doug mocked.

Jen rolled her eyes. "Well, I don't know about 'grand'…but it definitely has its moments."

Doug laughed. "That's right. I forgot that you're dating someone two years younger than you are…and he's a football player. Who would have thought?"

Jen glared at him. "Doug, you're pushing it."

They looked at each other for a moment then covered their mouths to keep their laughter from waking Joey.

"What do you think she's going to say to him once we get there," Doug asked Jen once they had calmed down.

"The truth," Jen said simply. "That's all she can do."

****************

It's amazing how you can speak right to my heart
Without saying a word you can light up the dark
Try as I may I could never explain
What I hear when you don't say a thing
All day long I can hear people talking out loud
But when you hold me near, you drown out the crowd
Old Mr. Webster could never define
What's being said between your heart and mine

The smile on your face lets me know that you need me
There's a truth in your eyes saying you'll never leave me
The touch of your hand says you'll catch me if ever I fall
You say it best when you say nothing at all

It was almost ten when Pacey pulled the truck into the Potter's driveway. He turned off the engine and looked down at Joey. She'd fallen asleep with her head on his lap. Pacey was reluctant to wake her. He could stay like this for the whole night but knew that Joey would have hell to pay if she stayed out all night. The day had been magical and it was one that Pacey would never forget. He brushed a strand of hair off her face gently. She was too beautiful for words and he had a feeling that he would never be able to tell her so. Dawson would always be in the way and Pacey was just going to have to accept that fact.

"Joey," he said softly.

Joey crinkled her nose.

Pacey smiled. "Joey, wake up."

"Don't wanna," she said stubbornly, rolling over and snuggling her face in his chest.

Pacey's heart thudded painfully and he wrapped his arms around her. "You have to," he mumbled into her hair.

"I wanna stay right-" Joey cut herself off and reluctantly opened her eyes. Pacey was staring down at her with a look that Joey was scared to decipher. But, then again, it didn't really need to be deciphered. Joey knew what that look meant. She'd seen him wearing it all day and for months before. It was the look that said, "I love you so much it hurts". Joey looked deeply into his eyes and tried to return his look with one of her own.

Pacey reached out and cupped her face in his hands, bringing his lips down on hers gently. Joey's arms slid around his neck.

"Pacey," Joey whispered against his lips.

"What," he asked as he tenderly removed a strand of hair from her eyes.

"Thank you."

Pacey pulled back and gave her a smile. "You're welcome Jo."

Joey kissed him, refusing to let the night end. When they finally broke apart, Joey gazed deeply into his eyes. She felt tears choking her and tried to hold them back.

Pacey knew what she was thinking about without having to ask her. He reached over and gently brushed a tear off her cheek. "I know Joey," he whispered. "I know."

Joey kissed the palm of his hand and Pacey looked at her, his eyes a stormy blue.

"Jo-"

Joey pulled him against her, sliding her tongue between his lips, never wanting to let him go even for a second.

Pacey made a low noise in the back of his throat as their kiss deepened. He finally pulled back. "Jo, you should go inside. It's late."

"Yeah," she agreed picking up her sketchbook off the floorboard and opening the door. "I'll see you in the morning?"

"You'd better. The boat wouldn't be where she is now if you hadn't helped me."

Joey smiled. "Goodnight Pacey."

"Night Jo."

They stared at each other for a moment, their eyes saying what their mouths couldn't. Finally Joey shut the door and ran across the yard to the front porch. She leaned over and picked up a couple of notebooks from behind a potted plant and Pacey couldn't help but laugh. She had definitely covered her tracks well.

"Hey Jo," he called.

Joey turned around and looked at him. "Yeah?"

"You look great in black underwear."

Joey stared at him for a moment then she smirked. "I knew you peeked." She waved at him then went inside.

Pacey reluctantly started the engine and headed towards home.

Joey opened her eyes and stared out the window of the truck. The next day everything had fallen apart. The clock on the dashboard said five o'clock. Only a few more hours to go. Joey's only hope was that she could look into Pacey's eyes the way she had done that day and they could say what words never could.

****************

Andie and Dawson sat on the edge of the dock, swinging their feet idly.

"What would you like to talk about," Andie asked.

Dawson sighed. "Nothing…everything."

Andie smiled. "Just start somewhere."

Dawson nodded. "It hurts."

"I know."

"I mean, I'm not mad anymore. I'm really not. I just…I don't know." Dawson let out a defeated moan and put his head in his hands.

"It still hurts to know that you've lost your inspiration."

Dawson looked up at Andie, surprised. "Yeah. That's exactly it. Joey was always the one to make me keep trying…even when I just wanted to crawl into a corner and quit."

"I know what you mean. Pacey was always telling me how much he believed in me, he was there for me when I got sick…" Andie trailed off as tears formed in her eyes.

Dawson noticed and wrapped an arm around Andie's shoulders. "We're quite a pair, aren't we?"

Andie laughed as she wiped at her cheeks. "Yeah, we are."

They sat in silence for a moment.

"You know what's so bad about the whole thing," Dawson finally asked.

"What?"

"The fact that I acted like such a jerk. I mean, I had every right to be upset for them sneaking around but I never should have been so angry with them. I mean, I once told Pacey myself that when another man came into Joey's life that I would have to take it as it came…and when it happened I just-"

"Lost it," Andie finished.

"Yeah."

"I know."

"But you forgave him Andie," Dawson continued. "You looked past the hurt and the anger and you forgave him…and her."

"Yes, I did. And so can you."

"But I'm not ready to," Dawson said softly.

"Dawson, we don't always have a choice in what we do," Andie told him firmly. "And we're not always ready to do the things that we have to do. Trust me, I wish that it were me on the way to Pacey right now…but its not. I didn't forgive Pacey because I stopped hurting. I forgave him because I had to. I accepted the fact that I lost his love and I can't hold a grudge over him because he found someone else."

"I know Andie. I need to do the same thing," Dawson said, feeling his own tears begin to fall down his cheeks. "I just don't want to face the reality that I have lost my two best friends…to each other."

"But you haven't lost them Dawson," Andie said adamantly. "They are still your friends. They still want to be your friends. They still want to be my friends. That was the whole reason why they kept their feelings a secret. They still love us Dawson. They're just not in love with us."

Dawson looked at Andie. "You've really thought a lot about this."

Andie shrugged impishly. "Well, it was something I learned while at the clinic. Thinking really does help you sort out your problems and your emotions."

Dawson smiled. "Yeah."

"I just want everyone to be friends again," Andie admitted. "I mean, you can't help who you fall in love with. And they are still our friends, even when we try to push them away."

"Yeah," Dawson said quietly.

They sat there for a moment, just looking out over the water.

Dawson finally broke the silence. "So, what are you doing tonight?"

"You mean besides feeling sorry for myself," Andie asked with a grin.

"Yeah."

"Nothing. What did you have in mind?"

"Well…it is movie night. What do you say?"

"I'd love to."

****************

And when somebody knows you well
Well there's no comfort like that
And when somebody needs you
Well there's no drug like that
So keep me, keep me
In your bed all day, all day
Nothing heals me like you do
Keep me keep me
In your bed all day, all day
Nothing heals me like you do

It was still raining and Joey had found the perfect song. Now, all three of them were belting out the lyrics as they drove towards the marina. Only about twenty minutes now. Joey's stomach was in knots but she was trying to remain calm. One of the best ways to do that was to sing her heart out with Jen and Doug.

And when I'm home, curled in your arms
And I'm safe again
I'll close my eyes and sleep, sleep
To the sound of London Rain
So keep me, keep me
In your bed all day, all day
Nothing heals me like you do
Keep me keep me
In your bed all day, all day
Nothing heals me like you do
Nothing heals me like you do

"Shit," Doug cursed as they came to a sudden stop.

"What is it," Joey asked anxiously.

"There's a wreck up ahead. Looks like we could be here for awhile."

Joey checked her watch. "It's six forty-five."

"I realize that Joey. But there's nothing I can do."

Joey nodded. "You're right." She put on her jacket. "How far is it?"

Doug looked at her, incredulous. "What?"

"How far is it to the docks?"

Doug looked at Jen who nodded. He sighed. "It's about a mile that way." He pointed in the direction she needed to go.

"Thank you," Joey said, leaning over and kissing his cheek.

Doug blushed.

Joey gave Jen a big hug. "I'll meet you guys there."

She opened the passenger door and got out of the truck. "Wish me luck," she called, shutting the door and running down the road.

"Now that's what I call love," Doug commented.

"Yeah," Jen agreed. "So do I."

****************

Hold on
Hold on to yourself
For this is gonna hurt like hell
My love
You know that you're my best friend
You know I'd do anything for you
My love
Let nothing come between us
My love for you is strong and true

Pacey was having a wonderful daydream about meeting Joey.

BOOM!

Pacey jerked out of his trance. "What the hell?"

Then he looked up at the sky. "OH SHIT!"

Pacey saw the wave come but couldn't do anything. He found himself spiraling through the air as the boat splintered into pieces. He hit the water, hard, something hitting him on the head. This was too unreal. He'd come so close to reaching his happy ending, or what he thought could be his happy ending and it was being cruelly snatched away from him.

This is it, Pacey thought to himself. This is where I get on the bus. He would never get the chance to make things right with Dawson…or Joey. Joey who was on her way to meet him now and would be met with the harsh reality that he would never make it there. Pacey's life flashed in front of his eyes and the last thing he saw was Joey. He lifted his head out of the water and yelled the only word that he could think of.

"JOEY!"

****************

Am I in heaven here or am I in hell
At the crossroads I am standing
So now you're sleeping peaceful
I lie awake and pray
That you'll be strong tomorrow and we'll 
See another day and we will praise it
And love the light that brings a smile 
Across your face… 

Joey ran as fast as she could through the downpour, barely able to see in front of her. Only a little further. Joey prayed that Pacey had made it to the docks safely. If not…Joey didn't want to think about that. He made it. He made it. He made it she chanted over and over again as ran towards the docks. Stinging rain pelted Joey's face but she didn't stop. She had to get there on time. Everything depended on it.

Joey ran down the slick dock, frantically searching for the True Love. It wasn't there.

"DAMMIT," Joey yelled, trying to catch her breath.

It's okay Joey, she told herself. Maybe he had to dock somewhere else because of the storm. You'll just wait here as long as you have to. He'll be here.

Lightening split the sky as Joey looked out at the water. "Come on, Pacey. Come on."

****************

Thirty minutes later Jen and Doug arrived.

"Is he here," Jen asked, running up to Joey.

Joey shook her head. "No. Doug, I'm worried."

"Oh no," Doug mumbled, staring out at the stormy water. "I'm-I'm going back to the truck to call for help." He paused. "Joey. You should get out of this rain."

Joey shook her head. "I'm not moving from this spot until he gets here."

Doug didn't bother arguing with her and ran to the truck. He picked up his CB and began rapidly speaking to the dispatcher that answered. "Yes, this is Officer Doug Witter of CPD…."

Jen stood with Joey on the end of the dock, scanning the dark sky, searching for any trace of the True Love. "I'm sure he'll be here, Joey," Jen told her friend, even though she wasn't really sure that was true.

Joey bit her lip. "Jen, this isn't right. Something's wrong. "

Doug walked back over to them, holding out an umbrella. "At least use this."

"Thanks Doug," Jen said, taking the umbrella and opening it.

"I gotta stay near the truck, keep in touch with the Coast Guard, the PD," Doug told them. He turned to Joey. "You really should wait in the truck."

Joey shook her head. "I'm not leaving this spot Doug. So stop trying to make me."

Doug smiled. "I'm surprised my brother and you haven't killed one another yet."

Joey actually smiled back. "Me too."

****************

By morning Pacey had still not arrived. Joey and Jen remained on the dock, sitting on the wooden planks, scanning the horizon. Doug had tried persuading them to wait in the truck several times but Joey wouldn't budge and Jen was not about to leave Joey alone…in case something happened.

"Jen, something's wrong. He should have been here by now," Joey said tearfully.

"Joey. If the storm came up, he probably docked at the closest place he could. And he'd have to wait for the storm to clear up before he could get on the water. He's probably still waiting for it to clear…or he's on his way."

Joey thought about this for a moment then nodded. "I hadn't thought about that."

Doug walked over to them carrying a bag. "Here you go gals," he said handing it to them. "There's some bottled water and a couple of sandwiches in there."

Jen gave Doug a grateful smile. "Thanks Doug. Have you heard anything from the Coast Guard?"

"Nothing that would tell us anything about Pacey. I gotta get back to the truck so I can keep an ear out." He paused and looked at Joey. "Joey-"

Joey cut him off before he could even start. "Doug, I'm not moving."

Doug sighed in defeat and went back to the truck.

"You do realize that Pacey's gonna have to bring the both of us chicken noodle soup and Vaporub once this is over with don't you," Jen asked Joey as she handed her a bottle of water.

Joey smiled at the thought. "Yeah. But it'll be worth it Jen."

Jen smiled. "Yeah, I guess it will."

Joey looked over at her friend as she passed Joey a sandwich. "You really have changed Jen."

Jen looked up, startled. Then she smiled. "Yeah, I guess I have. For the better I hope."

Joey nodded. "Definitely for the better."

They laughed and turned their eyes back out to sea. The storm had let up considerably but it was still drizzling.

"Come on Pacey," Joey whispered. "Come on."

****************

By late afternoon he still hadn't shown up. Now Joey was pacing the dock nervously. Doug and Jen had tried to calm her down but it was useless. Joey was convinced that something had happened. Finally, Doug got a call from the Coast Guard.

"Joey! Jen," he yelled as he ran down the dock to them.

They turned around and ran to meet him.

"What is it," Joey demanded.

Doug looked at them with worried eyes. "I just got a dispatch from the Coast Guard. It appears that they've found a piece of a boat. They want us to come and see if it's Pacey's."

Joey stared at him for a moment and began shaking her head. "No. No no no no."

"Joey, we have to accept the fact that something may have happened."

Joey gave Doug a defiant look. "Let's go prove you wrong."

****************

Oh god if you're out there won't you hear me
I know that we've never talked before
Oh god the man I love is leaving
Won't you take him when he comes to your door

Joey, Jen and Doug walked into the station and were directed to the dock at the back. They walked onto the deck and was met by a tall man with a graying beard.

"Hi there," he said extending his hand to Doug. "My name's Simon."

"I'm Doug. And this is Joey and Jen," Doug told Simon, shaking his hand.

"This way," Simon said, motioning for them to follow him. He took them over to where a few workers were milling around a piece of wreckage. They stepped back when Simon got there, making room for Doug, Jen and Joey. "This is it," he told them.

Joey saw it first. The blue painted board that looked exactly like Pacey's. She felt tears begin to rapidly fall down her cheeks and she stepped back from the wreckage, stunned.

"Joey," Jen asked cautiously.

"It's his," she screeched. "It's Pacey's."

Doug was staring at the wreckage, dumbfounded. Then he nodded. "Yeah," he said softly.

Joey turned around and ran down to the edge of the dock. "NO," she screamed. "NOOOO!" Joey felt the tears streaming down her face, mixing with the rain. "NOOO!" Sobs wracked her body and she crumpled to the wooden dock. She threw her head back and looked up at the stormy sky. "WHY," she yelled. "WHY DID YOU HAVE TO TAKE HIM? WHY COULDN'T YOU HAVE TAKEN ME? Joey looked back out over the water and began screaming the name of the only person who could ever take the pain away. "PACEY! PACEEEY! PAAACEEEEY!"

Hold on
Hold on to yourself
For this is gonna hurt like hell

Jen ran down the dock after Joey, leaving Doug to fend for himself. She sank to her knees next to Joey and wrapped her arms around her friend, holding her tightly, trying to take some of the pain away but knowing that it was impossible. "Shhh. Just hold on to me, Joey. Just hold on to me."

Joey's sobs continued, her arms locked around Jen as she rocked back and forth whispering his name. "Pacey…Pacey…."
 

End of Part Three

prologue | 1 | 2 | 3 | epilogue

More Fanfic