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Chapter 5

Waverly's POV

Waverly was thankful she decided last minute to take this trip...if for no other reason than she didn't give the paparazzi a heads up. It would take them at least a day to realize she was out of town...and if she was lucky another day to figure out where she went. Champ was doing his part to throw them off her scent, as well. Making up some story about a long ski weekend with relatives.

God, I do love that man, she thought. He really is one of the good ones.

She let her mind enjoy the quiet calmness of the flight. Savoring the sounds of the drink carts moving around and people making small talk. She even chuckled at the occasional snorer who got a little too loud. It felt so...normal. She played with her phone as the captain come on the loudspeaker to announce their impending arrival. Waverly felt a wave of anticipation as she counted down the time until she could turn her plane off airplane mode and hopefully be greeted by a response from Nicole.

Her flight landed without any issues and she soon was on her way back to Purgatory to surprise her parents. She hoped against hope Nicole listened to her message and would meet up with her, but the lack of response didn't leave her much hope. Well, she thought to herself, even if Nicole refuses to see her, she was still happy to finally see her family again. She didn't realize just how much she missed them and her childhood town until she landed back in this sleepy little town. So many memories. Even though she knew leaving Purgatory was the best thing for her, Waverly fought back nostalgic tears thinking about all she had left behind. Her family, her friends...Nicole. Especially Nicole. She hoped the damage she had done wasn't irreversible, but was mentally preparing herself for the worst just in case. She prayed she was wrong, but Nicole could be so stubborn sometimes.

Waverly approached the homestead and smiled as she drove under the dilapidated Earp sign that let her know she was home. Her mom came out on the porch at the sound of a car approaching since they don't get many visitors, accidental or otherwise, being out on the edge of town. She stepped out of the car and her mother ran towards her, crying and pulling her into a strong embrace.

"Baby girl," Michelle exclaimed. "Why didn't you tell us you were coming? We would've picked you up from the airport." Michelle fawned over Waverly, alternately hugging her and holding her at arm's length so she could look at her. "You look amazing! I am so happy to have my baby home for Christmas. How long can you stay?"

"Just a few days," Waverly replied. "It was a last minute thing. I was feeling a little homesick so I took a few days. Where's Wyn?"

"Oh, she and Doc are out picking out a tree. They've been battling over what size tree to get so here we are, December 23, and still no tree at all. I sent them out and told them they were not welcome back unless they had a tree in tow. I don't care if it is a Charlie Brown tree at this point. I just need something to put our angel on!"

Waverly giggled, snuggling into her mom's side as they walked into the house. The smell of hot chocolate and freshly baked pies took over Waverly's senses as she tossed her luggage by the front door. "God, I've missed this place. I've missed you. Hollywood is great...but it isn't home," she sighed as she slumped into one of the kitchen chairs. "Are you sure you don't want me to upgrade your kitchen?" Waverly asked as she looked around at the tired furniture and old appliances.

"Don't you even think about replacing anything in this home," Michelle scolded her. "I love my house just the way it is...it has charm. And every old thing in here holds memories for me. You, too, if you stop and think about it."

Waverly knew her mom was right. She nearly blushed looking at the very counter where her mom was standing now, rolling out fresh dough for cookies to be made later. The counter where she was sitting when Nicole finally got the courage to confess her feelings. She was so scared, and awkward, and adorable! They shared their first kiss in that very spot on that warm spring day. All the memories of secret glances and stolen kisses came flooding back to Waverly, causing her to feel a rush of heat throughout her body.

"What's got you grinning like the Cheshire Cat?" Michelle asked, intently staring at her daughter, wondering what the real meaning behind her sudden visit is.

"Huh," Waverly jumped, pulled from her thoughts. "Oh, nothing. I was just thinking. You're right. There are so many memories here. All over this house. I just needed reminding of that. Newer isn't always better and sometimes you don't realize how good some things are until you've been away from them for a while."

"Uh huh, sure. I get the distinct feeling we're no longer talking about this tired old house...but-"
"Umm, I'm pretty tired," Waverly cut Michelle off before she could go any further. "And I'm pretty sure Wyn is going to drag me to Shorty's later so I better go get some rest."

"Sure sweetie, whatever you say." Michelle shook her head and returned to her dough, wondering if Waverly will ever have the courage to be her true self, or if she'll always just be playing a role.