The Legacy – By Nicole R

Chapter 1: Introductions

“It’s true what they say. That if you live in a place where there is nothing but rain, eventually you go mad.”

John Black took a swig of his beer and studied the view from his penthouse windows as he pondered over his well versed theory of life in Vancouver.

He loved living in Vancouver. But when it rained like this, all rationale thoughts went out of his head and it was that he could do to keep from wanting to break something or someone. He was about to turn on the Toronto Raptors vs. the Vancouver Grizzlies when the phone rang.

He regretted answering when he heard her voice. “No Grace, I’m NOT going to yet another one of your fashion shows. I am not dressing up in a monkey suit so that you could have me as a lap dog.”

He turned the television on and hit mute. “I’m sorry you feel that way Grace. But if you feel that you just have to call it quits on us, well you do what you need to. Say Goodnight Gracie.”

He cringed at her final thoughts. “I hope to god John that you meet someone who breaks YOUR heart the way you’ve done to all of us.”

He smiled confidently as he said his final goodbye. “That will NEVER happen.”

He shut his eyes and a pained voice in his mind said with confidence why it wouldn’t.

“Because I’ve had one woman mess with my heart to ever be THAT stupid again. Burn me once, shame on me. Twice, shame on you.”

*~*~*~*~*~*

For close to 68 years, Alexander Evans had ruled the world. Everything he touched was turned to gold. Not bad for a boy from London, England who had immigrated to Toronto when he was only 15. That magic touch included his private life as well. He had married his childhood sweetheart and had three remarkable children, James, Marlena and Bo.

Sadly James died while fighting for his country and Alexander’s attentions fell to his remaining two children. His only daughter Marlena, known to the family as Mar or Mamie was his brightest jewel and the one he trusted, even beyond his wife. It was widely known and accepted that Marlena was the heir apparent to the Evans Billions.

Marlena was also the mother to his only grandchild. A beautiful little girl named Belle.

The only thing he wanted was to see Marlena happily settled. She had been hurt so much in the past three years. “Don’t dwell on what you can’t fix.” He stopped thinking of her and turned to the other child.

Bo was his youngest child and the most free spirited of the family. The more that Alexander tried to turn him towards running the company, the more that Bo channeled himself into his music.

It got so bad that on Belle’s christening day, father and son had a knock down drag out fight.

Alexander’s walk down memory lane was cut short by his bedroom door opening. “Dad?”

His smile was huge. “Hello there.”

As she watched him delightedly talking about his baby granddaughter, Marlena tried to tune out what the Doctor had told her just before coming into his room. That Alexander was failing and would not last out Christmas.

He suddenly stopped talking and looked into his daughter’s eyes. “You know don’t you.” She tried to look away when he reached out to touch her arm. “Mamie..”

She looked into his eyes and nodded. “Yes Daddy, I know.”

He began to tell her about the regret over Bo. “I just want to see him again. To tell him how sorry I am.”

“Promise me.”

She smiled and dried her eyes. “I promise Daddy. I will do what you wanted me to do.” Alexander Evans smiled, his once lively hazel eyes showing a peace that hadn’t been there for awhile. Marlena felt sick that his illness finally allowed him to show that he was human.

“I always thought that it would be you running my company Mamie. In other times, I would have left this for Bo. But your brother…” He began to cough again and the sentence was left unfinished.

Marlena just nodded. “Daddy rest.” She was about to let him rest when suddenly his hand shot out and caught hers in an iron grasp.

“FIND BO!”

She slipped her hand from his. “Daddy I promise. I will find Bo and bring him home.” As she watched her adored father fall asleep, she finally slipped out of the room.

As the door closed behind her, Marlena Evans grimaced. “Easier said than done. Who am I kidding?”

*~*~*~*~*

Paul knocked on the door and came in to find Marlena staring out the window. “Marlena?” She turned around. “You have the files for me?” He nodded and handed them over. “Marlena, I was talking to a friend the other day and he was telling me about an article on the Capwell kidnapping and the PI who found the information.” She looked up. “And?”

Paul grimaced as he heard Alexander in his head. “Well, I remember how you wanted to have Bo found, maybe he could be hired?”

Marlena nodded. “It couldn’t hurt to hear if he could help us.” Paul smiled. “Do you have a number?”

*~*~*~*~*

John walked in from finishing a case and was listening to his messages when a voice came on that he found he couldn’t ignore. There was something in her voice that reminded him of brandy, something smooth and clear, but as it worked through your system, it gave off it’s own special warmth.

“Hello there, My name is Marlena Evans and I was told by a business associate that you are the best in the field. Price is not an object, but I do need the best. If you can give me a call back at my office.” He jotted down the number.

He reached for the phone and tried to figure out what would the heiress to that fortune need him and his services for.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Belle Rose Evans was all of two, and yet she had the smarts to realize that if she stood very still, Nanny couldn’t find her behind the bear that sat in the corner. The little blonde with her mommy’s blue-green eyes and mischief waited until Nanny went out of the room before making her escape down the hall.

The little girl ran down the hall and was making her way down the stairs when she decided that she would get down faster sliding on her bottom. So as she got to the bottom, she ran into a pair of legs that she didn’t recognize.

Looking up with wide eyes, she tilted her head to inspect the stranger who smiled back at her. “Hello there.” Belle smiled, or smiled as well as she could with a sideways finger in her mouth.

“Aye and there you are little Miss.” John straightened up to find an older woman coming towards them. “Little Madam, you have the whole staff in an uproar. Just wait till your mother hears this.”

John grinned as the little blonde was taken back upstairs, her hands flying and her belly laugh could still be heard as he made his way into the library where he was told to wait for Marlena.

While he waited, he was admiring the photos on the side table. There was one photo in particular that caught his eye. It showed a lovely blonde, dressed in a white and gold beaded gown with her hair in curls. She was standing beside a man in a tuxedo.

“God she’s beautiful.”

“Good Afternoon, Mr. Black?” John turned and his heart stopped. The woman from the photograph stood in front of him, with her hand outstretched. “Yes, how do you do?” She smiled. “I’m Marlena Evans.” She gestured to the desk. “Would you please have a seat?”

Once they were settled and he had finished his inspection of the elegant, slender and very beautiful blonde, dressed casually in jeans, T-shirt and cardigan, John grinned.

“Quite the home you have here, Miss Evans.” He was rewarded with a shake of her head. “This is not MY house. It’s my father’s. I’m here only as he’s not been feeling well. If you take this assignment, you will be meeting him.”

John nodded. “What is the assignment?”

Marlena stood up and went to get the photo that John had noticed. “I need you to find my brother.”

John let the breath he was holding out. “Your brother?” She nodded, mischief dancing behind her eyes. “He’s too young to be my father.”

John smiled. “So what are the vital details that I need to know?”

Marlena reached into the desk. “Everything you need to know is in this file. It’s vital that you find Bo as soon as you can. Everything hinges on Bo coming home.”

John nodded. “Ok, I’ll do what I can. But if I can ask, why does this sound so urgent?”

The lively hazel eyes grew shadowed. “He needs to be home before our Father dies.”

*~*~*~*~*~*

The musician had the talent to make a name for himself in the area. But the name was not what he was born with. Evans caused too much of a stir. So Bo Evans became Thomas Cook, which in a way was a tribute to a friend lost too soon.

He sang the country ballad to the darkened room and felt a peace long overdue come over him. A way to get over what being what his father wanted had done to his soul.

The only people in his world that he missed were Marlena and Belle.

“Forgive me for leaving Mamie.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“Come in.” With that imperial decree, Marlena looked at John. “He’s not as bad as he appears.” She opened the door and ushered John in.

“Dad, this is the Private Investigator. John Black, this is my father Alexander Evans.” She turned to go. “Your leaving?” She smiled. “Yes, I’ve told you what I know, my father wanted to meet you and I promised my little one that I would spend sometime playing outside with her before her dinner.” John watched as Marlena went to kiss her father. “Bring Belle back up before she goes to bed?” Marlena nodded. “You know her ritual. She kisses Poppa before she goes to bed. She’ll be here.” She smiled to John. “Nice to meet you Mr. Black. I’ll talk to you soon.”

The men watched her leave and John felt the uneasy sensation that he was being watched. As he turned around, Alexander smiled.

“Yes, you are indeed the man for the job.”

*~*~*~*~*~*

John turned from the window getting lost in the moment watching Marlena laughing with her baby Belle.

“Sir I don’t understand.” Alexander shook his head. “What’s to understand? I’ve asked you to watch over my daughter and my granddaughter on top of finding my son.” John’s eyes wandered to the man’s night table, where another photo of Marlena was.

She was dressed in jeans and a sweater and she looked so young and alone that John felt himself wanting to do nothing more than take her in his arms and hold her.

Belle’s laughing squeal of “Mommmyyy!” pierced the air, causing both men to smile.

“Marlena has a very unique specialness about her. It may be that its because she’s my darling, I don’t know. But I want her protected at all times.”

John looked at him. “I understand.”

The door opened and a little whirling dervish flew in. “Poppa!” John smiled at the beauty of the little one, dressed in her pink overalls and white T-shirt. Her hair bouncing merrily in a ponytail. John took a second notice of Marlena, who this time was watching him very curiously. “I should be getting back to my hotel to start.”

Marlena raised an eyebrow as Belle came to her. Scooping up her baby, Marlena smiled. “So you will be taking the case?” He nodded. “I’ll be back tomorrow.”

“In that case, let me show you out.” Marlena turned to her father. “Belle will be back after her dinner.” Alexander smiled. “Sounds fine.”

John fought back a laugh as Belle started blowing kisses to her grandfather as they left his room.

*~*~*~*~*~*

“Hi Gran, it’s me.” John propped his pillows up so that he could sit against the headboard. “Is he still awake?” Madeline Black smiled. “Yep he is. His ear is still bugging him.” John grimaced. “Has he been taking his medication?”

“Yes John, but I’m telling you that I’ve run out of ways to make our little fellow take it. I don’t know any other ways.” John smiled. “Did you try offering to make Brady some of your famous Donuts?”

Madeline shook her head. “Now John Jonah Black how foolish do you think I am. What do you think I used on him tonight? The donuts are cooling as we speak.”

Listening to his grandmother laughing, John wanted nothing more than to be home with her and his little boy. “So are you taking the Evans Case?”

He smiled, remembering the adorable little girl. “Yes I think I am.”

Madeline took a deep breath. “This is what you need. To get away from Vancouver and your bad memories.” John cut her off. “Don’t do this Gran.”

John could hear Brady calling from the background and so asked if he could speak with him.

“Hi Daddy.” John grinned upon hearing the little voice he adored. “Hi Slugger. Gran says your still not feeling well.” Brady looked at his great-grandmother. “No Daddy, my ear still really hurts.”

John promised that he would be home by the weekend. “And if it’s still bothering you slugger, Daddy will take you to the doctor.” Suddenly there was a slight scuffle and Madeline came back on the phone. “The medication’s kicked in and he’s off to bed.”

John smiled. “Take care of him for me Grandy.”

Madeline heard the voice of the worried father and smiled. Her grandson’s whole world was wrapped in the tiny form of the little boy, who looked just like him. “Take care of yourself. Master Brady is in good hands.”

John laughed. “I’m being obvious aren’t I? I just love him so much.” Madeline smiled. “Go get some sleep John.”

As he hung up and began to fall asleep, his mind was caught on the beautiful but very sad blonde with the laughing hazel eyes. He smiled as he wondered what it would be like to have her in his arms, in soft candlelight making love to her, and watching her hazel eyes turn to liquid amber.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“Serena, That is incredible.” The artist grinned. “Thanks, I thought it was the perfect final piece to end off the pieces for the show.” Hope Black smiled and tucked a stray hair behind her ear. “I think so too.” The phone on Hope’s desk rang. “Hang on a sec.” Serena smiled and turned around to finish unpacking her pieces.

“Ambassadors, Hope Black speaking.” She broke into a grin as the person on the other end spoke. “Hi there.” John looked up from his notes and laid his pen down. “How’s things sister mine?”

“Flowing nicely. We’re in the final stages of getting Serena’s show finalized. But that is not WHY you called. What is it John?”

What he told her made her eyes wide. “You took the job?”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Maeve Evans spun around. “Alexander, You have done many things. But THIS takes the cake. Are you totally daft?” She held up a hand and cut him off. “Do NOT answer that. I already know the answer.” She came at her husband. “When Mamie learns the truth and you know that she will. How can you explain that you did this out of love for her?”

Alexander grinned as he looked up from the first report John had sent him. “Mamie knows that I would do anything to make her happy. She’ll understand.”

The elegant Englishwoman shook her head. When it came to their daughter, Alexander had a blind spot. He thought their girl was still the adoring child. He never saw that the schemes he brought around had started Marlena hardening her heart for most things except Belle.

“And Bo.” Maeve turned away from her husband and studied the photo taken of the siblings at the 40^thanniversary of Evans Industries. She spoke softly. “One day Alexander, you will realize what harm you have done.”

 

 

Chapter Two: Beginnings, Memories and Endgames

Marlena was sitting in her office when the phone rang. “Hello Marlena here.” “Hi there.” It took her just a heartbeat to realize who it was. “Bo?” Her voice dropped to a whisper. “Where are you?”

He turned around. “I’m not telling and I don’t intend to stay on the line long. I just wanted to tell you that I miss you Sis. You and stinkerbelle.” Marlena felt tears and was about to tell him about Alexander, when the line began to crackle. “Bo, I can’t hear you!”

Suddenly the phone went dead….

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Marlena was lost in thoughts when there was a knock on her office door. “Yes?” She smiled as she caught sight of her mother’s lovely red hair. “Hello there, I hope I’m not disturbing you?” Marlena grinned and got up from her work. “For you, the merger reports can wait.”

As she watched her mother get settled in her chair. Marlena remembered all the times as a child, when she had been no bigger than Belle. That she fallen asleep listening to her mother, with her light accent rising and falling telling her bedtime stories. She remembered playing with Maeve’s hair as she slowly fought the inevitable, and fell asleep wrapped in her mother’s arms.

“So what brings you down here today?” Maeve smiled. “Well, I wanted to take you to lunch. I haven’t seen you in a few days and missed you and my granddaughter terribly.”

Marlena raised an eyebrow. “Why is there more that you are not telling me?” Maeve smiled. “Well that’s because there is more. I want to throw your father a birthday gala.” Marlena shook her head. “Do you think that would be wise?”

Maeve’s eyes grew cloudy as she watched her daughter. She wanted so badly to tell her that Alexander wasn’t ill. But she knew that she couldn’t. “This may be your father’s last hurrah. It would do him good. I think it would do us all good.”

Marlena nodded. “Your right. When do you want to have this?”

As her mother filled her in with the details, Marlena allowed her mind to go back over her brief conversation with Bo.

“Whatever you want to do would be fine Mom. Daddy always said the best parties he’s ever been to were thrown by you.”

*~*~*~*~*~*

The Party was in full swing when Marlena arrived at the house. “Good evening Miss Evans.” She graciously took the offered hand and elegantly slid out of the limo. “Thank you Charles.” She adjusted her wrap and went inside.

John was talking with Maeve and Alexander when Marlena walked in and his jaw fell.

There was something about the way she carried herself. It was with quiet elegance and serenity. Her hair was up in a twist and her gown was striking. It was ivory lace with a high neck, sleeveless and as she spun around to greet someone who had called her name, it dipped rather daringly in the back.

John had to turn his head away so she couldn’t see just what the contradiction of innocence and seductive beauty was doing to him. He remembered what Grace said and cursed himself for wanting to make love to Marlena.

“Hello Mother, Daddy.” She greeted them both with kisses and hugs before turning her attention to the third member of the group. “Hello Mr Black.”

He smiled. “Hello there Miss Evans.”

Alexander heard the music and gestured to the two young people. “Go dance.” Marlena shot her father a glance. “Daddy!” Alexander grinned. “I want to see you TRY to have fun for once Marlena Mali.” Marlena’s eyes widened and she cut him off “FATHER!” The father and daughter had a stare down until Alexander started to laugh.

With that, she grabbed hold of a stunned John’s hand and dragged him off to the floor.

The smug Evans looked at his wife. “Works EVERYTIME.”

*~*~*~*~*~*

“Do you always do what your father wants you to?” Marlena leveled John with a glare worthy of a true Ice Princess. “Do you always ask such ignorant questions of people you barely know?”

“I decided to dance with you MR.Black as I thought it would be nice.”

She turned to face him and suddenly John felt as awkward as he had when Madeline was trying to teach him to dance when he was a child before she decided to pair him up to dance with Hope. It dawned on him what was causing him to be flustered.

It was her gown. It fit her like a second skin and it was driving him crazy as it revealed just enough of her to make him wonder just what was under that gown.

“What’s wrong?” He looked at her and Marlena shook her head. “I don’t bite, at least not during the first dance.” She shut her eyes. “It was a joke John and yes it was a lame one. But you can at least TRY to think it was funny.”

He cracked a smile. “Yes it was lame.” They danced to the music for a few moments until he suddenly raised an eyebrow. “Marlena?”

She lifted her head. “What?” He gently dipped her and brought her back to eye level. “Why did you freak out when your father started to say your middle name?”

He was running his hand over her back in lazy circles and the sensation was beginning to bother her. “Why was what?”

He smiled. “I saw your face when he started to say your middle name. What’s wrong?”

To his surprise, she blushed. “I’m not telling you.”

The music stopped and she stepped away. “There are some things that I would rather stay a secret. Thank you for the dance.”

As she walked away, John suddenly saw her being grabbed by a man and yanked out onto the patio. “We’re going to talk and we’re going to do it NOW!”

*~*~*~*~*~*

“How in the hell did you get invited here?” She yanked her arm away from the man and glared at him. “It’s NOT going to work Mamie.”

She crossed her arms. “What in the hell do you want Phillip.” He came towards her and tried to caress her cheek. “A second chance. You and I were so good together. We have a child.”

Marlena’s eyes widened. “Who told you that?”

The Englishman smiled. “I have sources Marlena sweetheart. I know that we have a beautiful daughter, just the spitting image of her exquisite mother and the apple of Poppa Alexander’s eye.”

He shook his head. “Aw sweet Mamie, why would you deny me our child. I would have loved any child of ours.”

Marlena shook her head. “You would love the TRUST fund of a child of ours. You always were a creep Phillip.”

He stepped back, his hand on his chest. “THAT hurt.” She shook her head. “I bet it did. Get out Phillip. You abandoned me when I was pregnant and as I recall, in our last meeting, you told me that as I apparently was sleeping with umpteen men, how could you be the child’s father?”

He came towards her. “I was drunk and didn’t know what I was saying.” His hands dug into her skin, making her cry out. “YOU did so know what you were saying. I am telling you again to get out.”

John’s voice came ringing out of the darkness. “This guy bothering you sweetheart?” As Phillip’s eyes widened in surprise at the approach of an apparently very angry lover. John walked to Marlena’s side and kissed the side of her face. “As my lady kindly and very loudly said. Take your hands off her.”

There was enough menace in John’s voice that Phillip backed away. “We’re not finished Marlena.”

John smiled as he slid his arm around her waist, feeling Marlena sink against him for support. He began to remind Marlena of a cat that wasn’t finished playing with a mouse. “Oh I think you are.”

Once he was safely gone, Marlena shoved at John.

“Oooh, You’re as bad as HE is.” Confused, he shook his head. “Pardon ME?”

Marlena jabbed at him. “What is it with the men in my life telling and acting as if I need protecting. I don’t but yet they all act as if their the great hero. First my father and now YOU and the next thing I suppose you’ll think I owe you and I’m telling you right now that I don’t!”

She was about to walk in when he started to laugh. “Your welcome Marlena.”

She turned her head and grinned. “Thanks John.”

*~*~*~*~*

The next morning John made his way outside where he was met by a little girl who held out her hands and issued an imperial command. “Up.”

Starting to laugh, John tickled the little girl. “You’re just as bossy as your mommy, do you know that?” He swung Belle up in his arms. “You’re just as pretty as she is too.” She squirmed and giggled.

He was playing with Belle when Marlena’s voice came out of the open patio door. “You are amazing, do you know that Mr. Black?” She stepped outside and John found himself staring at a pair of very long and very tanned legs that were showcased by a pair of shorts.

“I’m positive that now with Belle, you’ve managed to charm almost every female Evans.” He stood up and handed the disappointed little girl to her mother. “I have NOT.”

Belle gently rubbed her nose against her mom’s. “Oh I think so. Mother is now seemingly quite fond of you. My father’s sister Amanda adores you, Belle seems quite taken with her new toy.”

He walked towards her. “And what about Belle’s mom?”

She moved away around the patio table. “Lets just say that I’m intrigued and nothing more.”

He sat down and leaned his arms on the table. “You like me. I can tell.”

She shook her head. “Awfully cocky aren’t you Mr. Black?”

John smiled. “In my profession, it pays.” Marlena smirked. “Yeah, probably with a punch in the nose.” He clutched his chest and hammed it up for Belle, who squealed. “Oh that hurt.”

Marlena watched her daughter with obvious amusement as she caught a hold of her daughter’s flying hands. “Oh no you don’t. 2 is entirely too young to be falling for a boy. YOU’RE going for your bath.” Marlena handed her daughter to the nanny, who promised to have her ready in 15 minutes.

Once the little girl was gone, Marlena turned around to John, who was lost in thought over her gown from the night before.

“Would you like to go on a tour of Toronto?”

When her question got no response, she reached into Belle’s toy box and pulled out the water gun.

“HEY!”

She smiled. “That worked. Now that I have your attention, John I wanted to know if you wanted a tour of Toronto today?” She shrugged. “That is if you didn’t have other things in mind or on the agenda?”

Surprised at her sweetness, he smiled back. “I would love that, my idea of a fun day. Spending it with two lovely ladies.”

Marlena smiled. “Ok.” As she went inside to make arrangements, John wondered to himself why she was being this friendly…

*~*~*~*~*

“So, who was that goon last night?” John looked out the window as Marlena drove along the highway. “The goon?” He nodded. “The one I rescued you from?”

She laughed. “As opposed to the usual goons that my father deals with.” She glanced at him. “His name is Phillip Donovan and he’s someone from my past who I wished to god had enough sense to stay there.”

She pulled into a picturesque town. “Welcome to Niagara on the Lake.”

*~*~*~*~*

They had an enjoyable time as they walked and Belle provided the common ground when questions became too close for comfort.

At dinner, John felt enough at ease to try to broach the goon question again and regretted it when he saw how tightly she clutched the goblet. “Why is it THAT important to you to know just how Phillip falls into Belle’s and my life?”

He leaned across the table and gently dislodged the goblet from her. “Because I saw the look in his eyes last night. If I hadn’t of come out when I did.”

Marlena shook her head. “He wouldn’t have done anything. Phillip is all mouth and no action. Which explains why he’s a sponge.”

Looking at him, she began to explain her relationship with Belle’s father. “It was a mistake from which I learnt from.” John smiled at the angelic sleeping child. “And were blessed with a wonderful gift.”

Marlena rested her head against her dozing daughter’s cheek. Peering up at him, she grinned. “Belle is the most important thing to me. ALWAYS.”

The tension seemed to rise a level and Marlena felt his eyes on her. “Enough about me, what about you?”

He choked on his drink. “What about me?” Marlena started to laugh. “Well what do you do when you are not being the international man of mystery? Do you have a wife or children or a family?”

He smiled. “I do have family.” As Marlena listened, she found herself being drawn in by his charm and boyish enthusiasm for his family and especially for his little boy.

“Brady sounds like a wonderful little boy.” John took a drink of his beer. “He is. Taught me every day of his four years that life is a gift never to be taken for granted.” He grew thoughtful for a moment. “That if you want something bad enough, that you FIGHT for it.”

The intensity came back and anxious not to have his eyes on her again, Marlena checked her watch and John watched as her eyes began to close. “We’re in trouble.”

He shook his head. “What do you mean?”

She let out a yawn. “I’m not driving after having drinks and also being as tired as I am.” His eyes widened. “What are we going to do?” He smiled as her head slowly sank onto Belle’s. “I’ll drive home. I think I can figure it out.” He grinned. “Where’s the keys Marlena?”

She mumbled something that he took to mean that they were in the baby’s bag with her things. Fishing them out, he went to start the car and asked the maitre-d to watch them for a moment while he went to get the car started.

Five minutes later, he came back and asked the staff if there was any hotels that would still be open at that hour. “There’s something wrong with the car and we’re stuck till the morning.”

She opened her eyes with difficulty. “Dad has a cottage five minutes from here. We’ll stay there until tomorrow and we can have the car looked at then.”

John rolled his eyes. “The voice of reason.”

*~*~*~*~*~*

“THIS is a cottage?”

Marlena returned from putting Belle into bed. “It’s considered a summer house.” John shook his head. “It’s bigger than my grandparents cottage.” Marlena made a face and threw up her hands. “Ok, I give up. I made a mistake in describing it. Sue me!”

She stumbled and John caught her. “Are you alright?”

He looked in her eyes and felt a pull. Sleepily she reached up and ran her hand through his hair and he felt his lips lower onto hers. It felt so right and as she began to melt against him, he suddenly pulled the brakes.

“Marlena no.” She smiled. “I’m sorry.” He rested his cheek against hers. “No, it’s my fault. I shouldn’t be taking advantage of a sleepy lady. No matter how attractive she is.” As her eyes closed again, he scooped her up and came to sit on the couch with her in his arms.

Pressing his lips against her skin, he stroked her hair and allowed himself to inhale her perfume. As she snuggled closer, he smiled. “This feels too right lady. But I’m making you a promise. That like it or not, I’ll always be with you and will always protect you.”

She struggled for a moment and mumbled that she didn’t need to be protected.

He laid them both down on the big overstuffed couch and rested an arm on her waist, watching as her eyes fluttered as she fell into dreams.

He gently kissed her. “I promise you that soon, you and I will be together and when it happens Mamie, sleep will be the LAST thing in either of our minds.”

He grimaced as he tried to fall asleep with all his senses alert to her “Do you have to smell so good.”

*~*~*~*~*~*

She woke up with the strange feeling that she wasn’t alone. Opening her eyes, she began to laugh. “What the?” The look in John’s eyes sent her over the edge. “Hello there.”

He suddenly remembered last night and smiled. “Hello there yourself.” She grinned. “I had the weirdest dream last night.” He looked at her. “Oh you did, what about?”

She shook her head. “I dreamt that I kissed you and it had to have been the wine cause I don’t feel that way about you. I don’t even KNOW you.” He leaned over. “Well between you and I, it wasn’t a dream. YOU kissed me and it certainly felt real.”

Marlena didn’t like the smug tone in his voice and let him know. “I did NOT.” He grinned. “Oh you did sweetheart. YOU kissed me first.” “Well I may have. But I didn’t MEAN it.”

He leaned in and claimed her lips and this time the kiss was returned. As his arms tightened around her and they felt each other responding, Belle chose that moment to make her presence known.

Marlena stifled a laugh. “Yep, I’m convinced. It may of felt real to you. But it was the wine talking. I don’t normally kiss while playing tour guide.” She grinned. “But it certainly satisfied my curiosity.” He raised an eyebrow. “About what?”

She smiled. “What it was like to kiss a blue eyed stranger.” With that she shoved him off the couch. “What was THAT for?” Marlena shrugged. “Wanted to make sure I wasn’t dreaming.” She climbed over him to get the baby.

After getting Belle dressed and ready, Marlena graciously allowed him to get the first shower. “There should be clothes in the closet. Bo’s.” She stopped and a pain flashed over her eyes. “What did you say Marlena?”

She looked up. “Bo’s got a few things in the closet that may fit you.”

As he walked past her, he grinned. “Kiss me and I’ll be your prince.”

She shook her head. “I rather like you as the frog.”

*~*~*~*~*

Marlena was sitting on the steps when John came outside. “All set?” He leaned down to press his lips against her cheek and grew concerned when she froze at his touch. “Mamie?” She corrected him. “Marlena.”

She got up and gathered Belle’s things. “We have to go NOW.”

Stunned, John looked around the room. “What happened?” Marlena looked at him. “What happened here was wrong and shouldn’t have happened.” He came towards her. “We just shared a kiss.” She picked up her daughter. “It was wrong and we have to remember it’s a working relationship and NOTHING more.”

He shook his head. “Miss Evans.”

The honking of the car horn brought Marlena back to attention. “We have to go and when we get back, you need to find my brother.” She took her daughter outside and John was left to wonder just what triggered the change in Marlena…

*~*~*~*~*

“Good Afternoon Alex.” John watched as Marlena’s back stiffened at his approach. “And Hello Mili.” Marlena spun around and glared at him. “What did you manage to find out Mr. Evans.”

As she listened to him speaking on the near miss he had with Bo and the almost two weeks worth of work he had done, Marlena relived that call she received from her father, stating that Phillip requested a meeting with her concerning Belle.

Suddenly she felt close to tears and so she excused herself. “Alex?” John turned around. “Is everything alright with Marlena?” The older man studied his Detective closely. “She’s facing a tough battle and she needs to be kept calm and secure. She can’t be held accountable for the emotions right now.”

John shook his head and suddenly Marlena’s words came back to him as he remembered the look of fear in her eyes at the party as Phillip grabbed for her and again as she spoke of her devotion for her baby daughter.

“Belle comes first…ALWAYS.”

“If you’ll excuse me Alex.” John practically ran out of the room, earning a smile from the elder man. “Keep this up and I’ll be POSITIVE your the man for my Mamie.”

He found her slumped over on her couch in her office. “I thought we were friends.” She peered up at him through her bangs. “GO away.” He shook his head. “I can’t DO that Mili. You and I both know that we’re crossing some lines or would be if you just let me in. Why won’t you trust in someone to help you?”

Marlena began to sob. “I CAN’T DO THAT!” She doubled over and began to rock. “I do that and I lose.”

Worriedly, he knelt down in front of her. “Lose what?” He reached over and brushed her hair away so he could see her eyes. “Marlena you’ll lose what?”

She lifted her head. “I lose my baby. John, I can’t lose Belle. I can’t.”

Feeling his heart breaking for her pain, he came and sat on the couch and pulled her to him. “Sssh. You won’t lose your little one.” She remained stiff in his arms and he gently kissed the top of her head as she began to sob against the front of his shirt. “Marlena, just trust me to hold you. Nothing more and I want you to know that I’ll do professionally whatever you need to help in this.”

She lifted her head. “Just be my friend?” He smiled. “This may surprise you, but I can do that.”

She laid her head back against his chest. “John, Phillip can’t have her.” He rested his cheek against her head. “I promise you, I’ll stake my career on this promise. He wont.”

Once her sobs had stopped, he snuck his thumb under her chin, lifting it so he could see her face.

“Marlena, I’m going to drive you home. Ok?” She nodded. “That would be great. I don’t really feel like driving in this state.” He smiled. “Sounds like a plan.”

As he gathered her things, John came up with a plan. “Marlena, why don’t you and Belle come home with me to Vancouver for a visit? Only fair don’t you think. You showed me around here, I could show you there and I can introduce you to my family?”

She shook her head. “I can’t leave.” John pulled her to her feet. “You can so. You need to be calm cause if your NOT, Belle won’t be and that’s not good for Mommy or for the child. So come on, humor your friend and say yes.”

She lowered her eyes and then nodded. “Alright, I’ll come.”

He grinned. “It’s going to be GREAT!”

As he escorted her out, Marlena shook her head. “Glad one of us thinks so.”

 

Chapter 3: A Faith In The Heart

“This is nice.” John looked around the plane and smiled at the pretty blonde, who grinned from her secure spot, curled up in the chair opposite of him. “Yep, being an Evans has its perks. This plane’s one of them.”

He studied her closely. “Are you feeling better?” Marlena reached for her drink and thought for a moment. “I think so. Maybe a trip away was what I needed.” He nodded. “I think so too. Besides I can’t wait for you to meet my grandmother and Brady.”

Marlena shook her head. ” John, It’s not that I’m not happy to meet your family, I am.” She put the glass back down. “But isn’t meeting them a little too soon?” He shook his head. “I think that its nice to get you and the little one out of the tense situation your in here. A vacation was what you needed. The key to seeing clearly is to relax and spending time with good people. Vancouver’s amazing scenery is going to help you.”

He tilted his head when Marlena began to laugh. “Have you ever thought of being a Doctor?”

*~*~*~*~*~*

He came out of the car first and came around to help her out. “What do you think?” Marlena grinned. “It’s incredible.” John went to get Belle out of the car. Unbuckling the sleeping child, he whispered. “Welcome to Vancouver little one.”

He handed the little girl to her mom and as Marlena shifted the baby on her hip, John broke into a grin as a little boy came flying down the steps. “DADDY!”

Marlena rested her cheek on top of Belle’s head and smiled at the reunion. “Daddy, my ear’s better.” John hugged his son. “I’m glad to hear that.” He kissed his son. “Brady, I’d like you to meet someone. Her name is Marlena and this is her daughter Belle.”

The little boy blushed. “Hello.” Marlena settled Belle down first before getting down to his level. “Hi there. Your daddy says that your four is that true. You seem awfully big for a four year old. I think your teasing me.” Brady smiled and peered up at his father who smiled back at him. “No, I four.”

She held out her hand. “Well its nice to meet you.” As he shook her hand, John rested his hand on his son’s shoulder. “Where’s Grandy?” Brady looked up at him and before he could speak, a female voice came from around the driveway. “Gran’s still finishing her baking. She sent me to come and bring you all in.”

Hope was dressed in a blouse and form fitting skirt that ended at her knee. Her hair flowing around her shoulders as she welcomed her brother home. She turned her attention to Marlena with a dazzling smile that allowed Marlena to see that charm and great looks didn’t just affect John. “Hi, I’m Hope.” Marlena held out her hand. “I’m Marlena.” As they shook hands, Hope smiled. “So is this your first time here?” Marlena smiled as Belle went to John, who scooped her up and took her inside. “Yes it is. From what John has told me, I can’t wait to see everything.”

Madeline was coming down the stairs when she smiled at the sight of John with Brady in one arm and a beautiful little girl in the other. As he set both children down, Brady noticed her and smiled. “Grandy, this is Belle.”

Madeline smiled. “Well hello Belle. My name is Madeline, but you can call me Maddy.” John mouthed a silent thank you as his grandmother led both children into the kitchen.

By the time that Marlena and Hope came into the kitchen, Belle had made fast friends with Brady and Madeline and was happily munching on a donut with Brady on the back step while John watched with amusement.

Marlena stood at the doorway in shock. “This is NOT my child.” Madeline smiled. “Oh I think it is. John’s Brady could charm a dead man to life if he wanted to.” Marlena laughed. “Just like his daddy.” She turned around and came to sit with Hope and Madeline, who smiled and asked.

“Would you like some lemonade?”

As Madeline got up to get it, John came in. “Your daughter is quite the eater.” Marlena grinned. “I have never seen her eat like that.” Hope smiled. “I think it’s Gran’s donuts. Turns everyone into starved monsters.” Madeline smiled. “I can’t help that their great.”

John came to sit down across from Marlena and Hope began to choke as she watched the very subtle play between her brother and Marlena. “Excuse me, I’m going to check on the shop.”

Marlena was listening to Madeline and reaching for a donut when John’s hand brushed against hers. Maddy’s eyes widened as she watched Marlena pull away as if burnt.

“Did you want that one?” Marlena shook her head and smiled. “No, you go ahead.” John shook his head. “Well if you want it.” She grimaced. “NO.”

He smiled. “Kinda fickle aren’t you Mamie?” Her eyes widened and she shifted to Madeline. “So how long have you lived in Vancouver?”

John took a sip of his lemonade and watched Marlena. No Matter what he did or said, she would do anything NOT to look at him. Which sent Maddy into silent laughter as she watched the game begin.

“Oh this is going to be fun. John is in love.”

*~*~*~*~*~*

He came outside after dinner and found her sitting on the swing, a sleeping child on either side of her. Their heads on her lap and she was sweetly stroking their hair as she swung.

He watched her and again marveled at how right it felt to be with her and to be so in love this fast. She was so in his life that he couldn’t believe it was only weeks and couldn’t remember when she wasn’t with him.

She was such a contradiction and he found that he couldn’t get enough of her. Just thinking of the trouble she was facing when they got home and she had to face a custody trial with Phillip for Belle, broke his heart. He smiled with tears in his eyes as Marlena brought Belle’s little hand to her lips.

A sudden silent thought rang through his mind and heart. “I can’t lose her or Belle.”

“Do you want to join our little party of three?” John jumped at the softness of her voice. “How did you know it was me?” Marlena grinned and turned her head. “I smelt your cologne.”

He came and gently lifted Brady from his spot. “Daddy?” John kissed his son’s cheek and settled him back to sleep. “Yeah its Daddy slugger.”

He turned his attention to Marlena. “So, you like my cologne.” She started to laugh. “You’re blushing Marlena.” She peeked at him from the corner of his eye. “How can you tell in the darkness?” He smiled and caught her loose hand in his. “Marlena.”

His voice was dangerously low and as they moved towards each other, a warning bell in Marlena’s head rang and she pulled away. “Will you drive me to my hotel please?”

John grimaced. “Gran has asked that you and Belle stay here tonight. To be honest, I’d feel better if you were here. I don’t like the idea of you being in a hotel all alone.”

Marlena let out a yawn. “If Madeline doesn’t mind.” Maddy’s voice came from the kitchen. “Marlena I told you that it is Maddy and I insist that you and the baby stay here tonight.” Marlena blinked. “Ok, I can’t deal with two very determined Blacks when I’m this tired. We’ll stay.”

John was surprised when she allowed him to kiss her cheek. “I’ll go get your suitcases from the car.” As soon as he sprinted past his grandmother, Maddy came to sit with Marlena, Brady and Belle.

“He’s quite the fellow my grandson.” Marlena smiled. “My yes, yes he is.”

Maddy tilted her head. “He seems rather fond of you and little Belle.” Marlena looked at her sleeping daughter. “Yes he does.” Madeline laid her hand on top of the younger woman’s. “That’s scaring you isn’t it?”

Marlena nodded. “It’s just happening so fast, TOO fast. We’ve only known each other for a few weeks.” Maddy smiled. “It was like that with John’s grandfather and I. we knew after only a couple of days. That we were meant to be.”

With that thought spoken, Marlena smiled and scooped up her little one while Maddy took Brady.

*~*~*~*~*~*

John knocked on the door and waited while Marlena opened it. “Hi there, I just wanted to see if you needed anything before I turned in?” Marlena shook her head. “No, I think Belle and I are fine.” She opened the door to see Belle curled up in a ball in bed.

“Very pretty pajamas.” Marlena looked down and then raised her eyebrows. “Something against the color yellow John?” She grinned mischievously, wanting badly to watch John’s reaction. “It could have been worse, I was going to wear this white silk and lace nightie that I brought with me. It ends at the knee and is rather sheer.”

He clamped his eyes shut and tried to think of anything else but the lady in the silk pajamas. “Damn it, is there anything that she can’t wear that doesn’t drive me insane.” He looked at her and found her looking at him worriedly.

“Contradictions.” Was all that he said before turning on his heel and closing the door.

He hadn’t gotten far before Marlena’s laughter rang out from the open doorway.

She broke out into a smile and clasped her hands together. “I GOT you John.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Marlena rolled over and stared up at the ceiling. Sitting up, she was careful not to wake Belle before slipping out of bed. She had heard a noise and it worried her. Coming to the door, she opened it and suddenly it hit her what the noise was.

It was a child’s tears and so she went to check on Brady.

“Brady, its Marlena.” The little boy was sitting in bed, flushed and sweating. “Did you have a bad dream?” The little boy sniffled and nodded. “Would you like me to sit with you?” He nodded. So Marlena climbed up on the bed and the little boy climbed into her arms.

She rested her head on his and smiled. “Do you know what I do for Belle when she’s had a bad dream?” He shook his head. “I either sing to her or I tell her a story. Would you like that?” He peered up at her and nodded. “Ok, your choice.”

He shyly smiled and she found him stealing her heart. “Song.”

John was downstairs re-reading Bo’s file and was coming up to bed when he heard a very delicate voice singing coming from Brady’s room.

He stood in the shadows and watched as she cuddled Brady and sang to him. From time to time, he saw her plant a kiss on his cheek. Brady was cuddled up in her arms and seemed perfectly at peace there as he was slowly falling back to sleep.

“You are my sunshine, my only sunshine, you make me happy when skies are gray. You’ll never know dear, how much I love you. So please don’t take my sunshine away.”

She grinned down at him as he let out a sleepy sigh and cuddled closer to her. She sat very still for a moment and waited to make sure that he was truly asleep.

John didn’t want her to see that he had been watching this and so he stepped back into the shadows. It was as if at that moment, Marlena stepped right over from being a flirtation to a full part of his life. She fit into his world so effortlessly.

He snapped back to reality as Marlena was talking again. “Angel of love, guardian dear. Watch over this child with your protective grace.” She hesitated. “God, I know that I’ve only known Brady only a few short hours. But I feel a connection to him.”

She looked up at the ceiling and watched for a moment as the child’s lamp cast soft shadows on it. “His Daddy is another Matter all together.”

John held his breath and wondered if she felt the same thing he did, that she wanted him to be as much in her life as he wanted to be in hers. She brushed Brady’s damp hair off his forehead. “If I wasn’t so afraid to be hurt again. I feel.”

She shook her head. “I can’t tell you what I feel when I’m with John. He’s so.”

She took a deep breath. “He’s the most aggravating, annoying, TOO self confident man I’ve ever known.” She started to laugh. “One moment I want to wring his neck and the next, well.” She paused. “Well the next I want to stay in his arms forever and just love him. It’s as if by looking in his eyes, I can see to his soul and that’s what is scaring me.”

She looked at her hands and John felt himself mentally wishing her to come out and say it. “I’ve always wanted to be loved by a man who would make me feel so safe and secure. John does that but God, he’s so ANNOYING.”

She stood up. “But I know that he would never feel this way about me. I’m a flirtation and nothing more and maybe that’s for the best. Saves me from falling in love further than I think I have.”

John’s voice froze her to the spot. “You THINK you have or you KNOW you have?”

She turned around. “How long have you been there?” He walked into the room. “Long enough to see the most loveliest sight I have ever seen. You and Brady were breathtaking.”

She was about to move away when his arm blocked her. “Marlena, I asked you something. Answer me before you go?” She looked at him and she smiled. “I KNOW what my heart has told me. But its you who has to answer.”

She reached up and laid a hand on his cheek. “Do we take this further or leave it?”

He turned his head and gently laid his lips against the inside of her palm. As he felt her shiver, he turned his blue eyes back on her. “Mili.”

She shook her head. “I knew there was something I wanted to ask you and forgot it until now.” She stepped towards him and ran her hand over his jaw. “What does Mili mean?”

He smiled and as he pulled her towards him, he softly explained as his eyes searched hers. “It means mine.”

Suddenly the eyes grew cloudy and she began to struggle. “This was too fast. It was just because I came to help Brady.”

He pinned her in a hug and shook his head. “I’m sure Marlena that if you keep telling yourself that, soon you will believe it. But I heard what you said and if you didn’t mean it, then your one hell of a liar.” He smiled. “And a liar was something that I have never taken you for.”

She felt him lower his lips to hers and everything began to melt. To be in his arms was so right and she was allowing her heart to overwhelm her when suddenly she began to picture another time and she started to struggle. “John, no. Please STOP!” She reached up and smacked him.

As he stepped back in shock, her eyes began to well up with tears and she shoved him away before running out of the room.

He followed her just in time to hear the bathroom door shut and her tears from the other side. He rested his head against it and felt his heart breaking with her sobs. “Oh Marlena, what happened to you that makes you so afraid to love me?”

 

Chapter 4: Kisses and Schemes

He was about to go in to check on her when he heard her begin again. “Oh My Marlena, I promise you I will break down all of those walls not just for you, but for the both of us and I will win your heart.”

Marlena sat on the floor and rocked back and forth. “Why can’t I let myself love any one. Phillip played with my head and now I can’t see straight.”

“Times like these, you need to have someone help you so you can.” She looked up and found John standing in the second doorway to the bathroom. She reminded him of Belle, as she seemed so helpless.

He came and sat beside her. “Phillip was ONE man. Mamie, don’t let him ruin your chances for a happy future.” She rested her head on his shoulder and hiccuped through her tears. “Awfully cocky aren’t you?”

He wrapped his arm around her. “One of us has to be. I have enough faith for the both of us right now.”

He stood up and carried her into his room. “John, there’s faith and then there’s STUPIDITY.” He grinned at her. “Hahaha. I’m bringing you here to sleep because I went to peek in on your little one and Belle seems to have really stretched out.” He grinned. “You have quite the little bed hog there Marlena. There was NO way you’d be sleeping in there. So, you can sleep in here instead.”

He put her on the bed and knelt in front of her. “If it takes me the rest of my life, Marlena, I will have you believe me when I say, I’m not dangerous. I WON’T hurt you.” He leaned in and gently kissed her. “I can wait forever and take all the time in the world.” He kissed first one hand and then the other. “All I want is for you to believe me that I care and I do understand.”

She nodded and shut her eyes as he reached up to dry her tears. “So lets go to sleep and we’ll talk more tomorrow.” She opened her eyes. “Will you hold me?”

He climbed on the bed and wrapped his arms around her. “Night sweet Mamie.” As she rolled over and he could feel her breath on his neck, John began to get aroused. “Lord, why is it you give as much as you think we can handle? If I make it through tonight, I will NEVER say another angry word again.” He nestled his head against hers and started to laugh.

“Oh Gracie, You’d love the punishment I’m getting now.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“Are you sure about this?” John came around the side of the car and helped her out. “Hope insisted and I think it would be nice for you to see the sights.” Marlena shook her head. “Ok, if you put it THAT way.”

She slid her hand in his and gracefully got out of the car. As she reached behind her for the shawl, John admired her tank style dress and her simple diamond bracelet. She always looked good with less on. He looked her over admiringly and found himself spinning at her beauty and imagined what she would look like when they finally broke the last wall down…

She saw his eyes and shook her head. “You said.”

John looked sheepish. “Yes so I did promise you. But I didn’t say that I couldn’t LOOK.” He pulled her to him and gently pressed his lips to the side of her cheek. “You do look breathtaking.” As she pulled away, he took her earlobe in his lips and gave a gentle tug. “Ooh.”

“Let’s go see my sister’s show.” He was surprised to feel Marlena slide her hand in his.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“Do you believe who John’s brought to the show?” Hope turned around at the sound of her brother’s name, mentally cursing if John brought Grace. “I’ll kill him.”

She broke into a smile. “That’s his friend Marlena.” The gossip leaned in. “Since when did John start dating Marlena EVANS?”

Hope rolled her eyes. For years, the lovelife of her brother was the bait for many gossips. But now, on his arm was the heiress to the biggest fortune in Canada. Dare they believe what they had in front of them?

Hope shook her head. “So that’s where I’ve seen her before. Pretty isn’t she?” Excusing herself, She came towards the duo and grinned. “Hey Marlena, hey champ.” Marlena smiled. “Hi Hope.” As they hugged, Hope whispered into Marlena’s ear. “Watch yourself tonight.” She pulled away and smiled.

“By being on his arm, there are quite a few ladies who aren’t very happy with you.” Marlena’s eyes widened and she began to laugh. “Oh Nooo.”

John turned and smiled, tickled to see this side of Marlena. He had never really heard her laugh and found it infectious.

She looked over at him and shook her head. “I knew if I hung out with you, I’d get NOTHING but trouble.” He wrapped his arm around her waist. “Stick with me kid and I’ll give you all the trouble you can handle.”

Marlena made a face. “I have NO doubt to that.”

As they got lost in each other, Hope grinned. If Marlena Evans could keep her brother looking THAT happy, she would do anything to keep them together.

“Let’s go look at the displays.” Marlena smiled. “Sounds good.” As they walked away, Hope noticed that John couldn’t keep his hands off Marlena. At various times, his hands would be running up her back, or resting at her waist, or playing with her loose hair. She could see by Marlena’s eyes that she was doing all she could to not lose her control and fall under his spell

It was when he was playing with the side of her hair that Marlena finally fell. Taking his hand in hers, she smiled and tilted her head. “What are you up to?” He smiled and nuzzled her ear. “I’m just getting to know you.” She turned the full effect of her eyes on him. “You could have just started with an Hello.”

He stepped towards her. “Hello.” He lightly brushed his lips over hers and took her hand in his. “Let’s get out of here.”

When she hesitated, he came back to her. “We’re going to go for a walk along the water.”

*~*~*~*~*~*

“Welcome to Queen Elizabeth Park.” He opened the door and helped her out. “John, its spectacular.” He grinned. “Sunset is incredible.” He adjusted her shawl. “And so is my escort.”

She winked at him as they made their way to the path and walked in companionable silence.

“Your sister’s shop is incredible.” He nodded. “Art has always been Hope’s obsession. Ambassadors was her dream since she was able to talk.”

He studied Marlena from the corner of his eye. “What was your dream as a child Marlena?” She stopped. “I didn’t have a dream. I knew since I was born that I’d end up working in the family business.” She stopped and leaned against the railing. “Yes I know that sounds pitiful. But Jamie, my older brother died in a car crash after coming home from a tour of duty abroad. Bo, my other brother would have been the logical heir.” She paused to tuck a stray hair behind her ear. “But he and Dad ripped each other apart just after Belle was born.”

John came and wrapped an arm around her. “It’s hard trying to be the one person to everyone I guess.” She looked at him before resting her head on his shoulder. “You seem to know that situation well.”

John shook his head. “I don’t know what you mean.” She reached over and tweaked his tie. “I think you do. You’re a remarkable man John.” He grinned. “You think so?”

Marlena rolled her eyes. “I’m not complimenting you. Too many of those would mean your head would get big and I can’t HAVE that.” He wrapped his arms around her. “Bossy little thing aren’t you.”

She took his face in her hands and slowly kissed him, feeling his mouth slowly open and as the mood subtly shifted, Marlena broke the kiss. “John?” He blinked. “What?”

“I hear music.” He grinned. “Yeah, so you do.”

He turned around and pointed out where it was coming from. “Dance with me.” Marlena shook her head. “No, I don’t THINK so. Not out here.” He started tugging on her hand. “Yes here.”

As they began to sway, an unseen photographer began to snap shots.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“She is the key to ALL of this.” Phillip studied his brandy. “I get my daughter and I control it all.” He stood up and went to look out the window. “My daughter Belle.” He held up the glass. “To Daddy’s little dividend.”

“The skyline at night is so beautiful.” Marlena smiled as John’s voice tickled at her ear. “YOUR beautiful.” With a contented sigh, she turned her head to John. “Put your arms around me please.” He grinned and did as he was told. “Did you have a good time?” She stepped away from the door. “I had a wonderful time with a wonderful man.”

He lowered his lips to hers. “Do you want to take this home?”

She shook her head. “No, you promised me a good time listening to a singer. I want to hear him.”

They came inside and while John got their drinks, Marlena went to find a seat.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, I want to welcome you to Guardian Angels for the final performance of our amazing singer. Wish we could keep him. But the life of a singer is never rooted in one place for very long. So without further ado, Thomas Cook.”

“Here’s your wine.” John sat down and saw Marlena’s face suddenly grow pale.

“Marlena?” She clenched the goblet so hard that John thought she would break it. “No, it can’t be. It’s NOT.”

Her eyes grew bewildered as her voice came out in a rasp. “Bo?”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Feeling shaky, Marlena watched and waited until the last fan had left. “You’ve improved.” Bo spun around. “Didn’t think that it would require you to change your name though.”

She stood up and came to stand at the foot of the stage. “Didn’t take you for THAT much of a coward.” He packed up his guitar and turned his back in an attempt to buy time. This was not how he intended to be reunited with his sister.

“Hello Mamie.”

He turned around and saw her, arms still crossed and her eyebrow raised. “Don’t give me that schoolteacher look. You know good and well why I did what I had to. Dad gave me NO choice.”

Marlena figured the best way to tell him was to come right out and tell him. “Doesn’t matter now. Dad’s dying. YOU have to come home. Doesn’t matter what happened in the past. NOW is all that matters.”

John walked in and caught the tail end of the conversation. “I know he’s hurt you Bo, but Dad deserves to know that he HASN’T hurt you.”

Bo shook his head as he came to sit on the edge of the stage. “Oh my Mamie. I can’t do that. I can’t be the bigger man, not to HIM.”

With tears in her eyes, Marlena spun around and ran past John, who turned to glance at Bo.

Before either man could speak, they heard Marlena scream.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Running outside, they found Marlena being helped up by a concerned citizen. Worriedly, John came to her side. “What happened?” Marlena shook her head and was about to speak when suddenly everything around her went black and she crumpled into John’s arms.

John checked her over as the witness came to them. “She was standing here crying and the car just seemed to come out of nowhere. If she hadn’t of looked up when she did, she would have been hit.” John looked at the man. “Did you get a license?” The man nodded. “I didn’t. But my girlfriend did.” He pointed to the worried woman on the other side of the street. “Let me get the paper from her.”

While they waited, John glanced at Bo. “Well you certainly seem to have a habit of upsetting the ladies in my life.”

Bo looked at his sister and then back at John. “Grace was a one night thing.”

John scooped Marlena up. “Well your sister is NOT. I’m taking her home.” He laid her in the passenger seat of the car. “Well once I get her checked out at the hospital.”

Bo watched the jeep roar away. “I still don’t LIKE you Black.”

*~*~*~*~*~*

John swore that Marlena was sleeping when her sudden speaking scared him. “What did you say?” Wincing at the pain in her side, Marlena sat up. “I asked you how did my brother know your ex?”

John shook his head. “She’s the one who introduced me to the club. Apparently in a fit of rage one night over my choosing work over her, she decided to play the groupie situation and the next morning told me that she slept with a musician named Thomas, who played at the Guardian Angel.”

Marlena looked at him with mischief. “So on our first date of sorts, you take me out to check out an old romantic rival who just happens to be MY baby brother.” She shook her head. “Why couldn’t I have gotten interested in a florist? Why is it me that gets the weird ones?”

John came to sit on the bed. “Believe me. I didn’t intend to take you there. If you remember right, I did try to get you to go home.” Marlena smiled. “And yeah so you did.”

She leaned over and caressed his cheek. “Well I did do something right. I found him.” He leaned in and gently nibbled on her lip. “Yes, yes you did.”

He gently laid her back against the pillows. “You scared me tonight. When I heard you scream.” She laid her fingers against his lips. “It’s alright.” He shook his head. “No, it’s not. Marlena you were nearly killed.”

Her eyes closed and John was left to watch over her. “I wasn’t doing my job.”

The Doctor walked in. “I thought that I would check on her one more time before I went off duty for the night.” John looked up. “She’s just fallen asleep.” The doctor looked at him. “Mr. Black, you should go home. She’s sedated and her wrist has been set.” John shook his head. “I’ll go home when Marlena does. I know it sounds silly but I would rather be overprotective than slack off.”

The Doctor smiled. “Ok, you take care then and I’ll be back to check on Marlena tomorrow.”

*~*~*~*~*~*

“Dad, I’m fine. But Bo does NOT want to come home.” Marlena grimaced. “Dad, my wrist is hurting and I’m going to lie down. If you need to talk to someone, here I’ll let you talk to John.” John’s eyes widened. “NO!” She smiled. “Yes, he’s right here.”

As Marlena left, John’s eyes clamped shut, expecting a tongue lashing over having Marlena been in an accident.

Fighting back laughter, Marlena wandered outside to check on Brady and Belle.

*~*~*~*~*~*

“So what did Dad say?” John came to sit behind her on the steps and he wrapped his arms around her, pulling her back against his legs. “He said that he sends you and Belle his love and hopes that your wrist is the only injury.” Marlena peered at him from the corner of her eye. “That all?”

He playfully bit her earlobe, causing her to squeal. “No, I got the tongue lashing of my life. Remind me never to mess with your father.”

Marlena reached up with her good arm and wrapped it around his neck. “Well he just wants his little girl to be happy and to have the best.” She patted his cheek and made a face as she sweetly said, “Unfortunately, I have lousy taste in men.” As he began to tickle her, Marlena spun around and kissed him.

“I beg to differ, I think I’m the BEST thing to happen to you.” She wrapped her arms around him. “I think so too.” His eyes widened. “You do?” She nodded. “And that’s all I’m saying on this.”

As she went to check on the children, John remembered the conversation with Alexander.

“So while my daughter was facing down a speeding car, what were YOU doing?” John relived that moment when he found Marlena. “I was talking to YOUR son.” Alex made a tsk-tsk sound. “That’s not an answer.” John smiled. “Well I was hired to find your son.” Alex shot back with “But Marlena found him. YOUR other job was to watch over my girl. YOU failed in that.”

John paused. “I know that Alexander. I’ll never forgive myself for having my back turned the one time she needed me most.”

Chuckling to himself, the wily Englishman realized that Marlena had her happiness if he played this right. “I asked you to watch her. I trust that I can leave her and my grandchild in your hands?”

John smiled as he heard Brady singing You are My Sunshine with Marlena and Belle. “You bet you can.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“NO.” She turned around. “NOT on your life.”

John grinned, sitting on the floor with Belle in his lap and Brady leaning against his back. “Why not? Camping is FUN Marlena.”

She shook her head. “Some people think a root canal is fun, but I’m not going to do THAT either.” She went and curled up on the couch. “I’m NOT camping. Not today or tomorrow.” John smiled and tickled Belle. “Good, Cause I wasn’t planning on this until Saturday.”

Marlena rolled her eyes and was about to say something when Maddy came out. “Marlena, it’s your mother calling.” Worried, Marlena climbed off the couch and went into the kitchen.

“Mom?”

Maeve Evans spoke in a whisper, as not to alarm a raging Alexander. “Mamie, I hate to do this to you. But you HAVE to come home as soon as possible.” Marlena shook her head. “What’s going on?”

Marlena barely heard what was said before she dropped the phone.

Hearing the crash, John came into the kitchen and found Marlena standing a few feet away from the phone. Picking it up, he said hello.

“Oh thank goodness that your there with Marlena John. She’ll need to have someone who loves her with her.”

Wide eyed, John turned around. “I’ll have her home by late tomorrow.”

As he hung up the phone, John came to Marlena and turned her around. With tears in her eyes, Marlena shook her head. “How can he do this to me and to her?” She broke down and allowed John to wrap his arms around her. “Sssh. I told you, I won’t let ANYTHING happen to that little girl.”

As she sobbed in his arms, John vowed to tear Phillip Donovan apart.

*~*~*~*~*~*

John was as good as his word. The plane was ready for them the next morning.

But Marlena had to get through that night…

She allowed Brady and Belle to sleep in Brady’s big bed. But as she lay in hers, it suddenly seemed way too big. She rolled over and whimpered as she hit her wrist. “Who am I KIDDING!” sliding her feet into her slippers, she went across the hall.

“Yeah?” John opened the door. “Mamie, what is it?”

She ran her hand through her tousled curls. “I can’t sleep and can’t think of anything other than of Belle. So could I come and hang out with you?”

He nodded and opened the door wider so she could come inside his room. Once he closed the door, he came to stand in front of her. “Are you alright?”

She shook her head. “I don’t know.”

As they lay in his bed, John kept their minds off their growing chemistry by talking of this and that and soon found Marlena fast asleep.

*~*~*~*~*~*

John was planning to fly to Toronto with Marlena and Belle when a case he had been working on required that he stay in Vancouver an extra couple of days.

Marlena nodded. “You do what you need to and come if you can?” John brushed a stray hair from her cheek. “I don’t want to leave you this way.” Marlena shook her head. “Just my luck to be caring for a man of action.”

Belle came dancing at him. “You take care of your mommy, ok sweetie?” Belle nodded and went to get on the plane with the help of the co-pilot, who knew her since her birth.

“About last night?” Marlena smiled. “You were a perfect gentleman. Maddy would be proud.” He smiled. “I’ll be with you soon.”

He watched as she turned to get on the plane. “Please watch over them both.” Suddenly, Marlena turned around and ran to him.

“What is it?”

She didn’t answer, just wrapped her arms around him and kissed him. Surprised at first, he relaxed as he felt the intensity overwhelm him. “What was that for?” She smiled. “A memory to hold you over.” She turned to go and left him chuckling.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Marlena was listening to the family lawyers discussing the case and all she could think and see in her mind’s eye was of how Belle looked contentedly sleeping in John’s arms.

She turned around. “Daddy, I don’t CARE what we have to give Phillip. He never wanted her when I was pregnant and I’ll be damned if he gets ANY sort of custody or visitation now. Phillip doesn’t want her. Only wants what he thinks is attached to my baby girl.”

Alexander’s eyes glittered. “Her trust funds.”

He turned to Paul, the family lawyer. “Do what you have to.”

Paul glanced to Marlena. “Are you absolutely sure about this? Once I reveal what you and Alexander have told me, there’s NO going back.” Marlena laced her fingers together and slowly lifted her eyes to him.

“You do what you have to do. When it comes to my daughter. NOTHING is left to chance.”

 

Chapter Five: The Prodigals

John sat at his computer and tried to do work finishing up on this case. It had taken way longer than he planned for. His promise to Marlena of two days had now stretched out to three weeks. But despite his good intentions, John found that his thoughts kept turning to Marlena and he wondered if Belle and especially her Mommy were all right and that everything was under control.

“Finish the file and then call her.”

He shut his eyes and tried to not look at the photo that Maddy had given to him to cheer him up the other day.

It was of Him and Marlena sitting with Brady and Belle on the backyard swing, totally engrossed in reading a story and looked to the casual observer to be a small family unit lost to the world.

“I need to get some air.” He shut the file and was just going out the door when he heard the phone ring. He paused for a moment then shook his head ” Forget it, the machine will get it.”

The door shut at the beep and then Marlena’s voice came over the line. “Hi, it’s Me. I just had wanted to say Hello and that I.” She started to laugh. “Never mind. I miss you and Brady. You both take care and I’ll talk to you soon.”

*~*~*~*~*

John stood staring at the lovely jewelry in the display cases until a familiar voice came over his shoulder. “Want some help?” John turned and smiled at his sister. “Yes I do, I want to get something and I can’t decide on what to get her.”

Hope grinned. “Grandma’s birthday isn’t for another two months. My birthday isn’t until Halloween, so just WHO could you be buying a gift for that just HAS to be perfect?” Hope started to laugh. “Good grief, even Grace never had you in such a tizzy.”

John grimaced. “I can’t help this. I want Marlena to have the perfect gift.”

Hope laid a hand on his arm. “I’m just amazed that she has you this excitable.” John shrugged his shoulders. “Help me find something please?”

Before she could, he suddenly found it and smiled. “I’ll take that please.”

*~*~*~*~*

Marlena paused in the middle of picking up Belle’s toys and looked around the room. “What is the Matter with you? It’s not even been a week and your MOPING!”

“I really hate to say this to you Mamie. But you always were a suck.” Stunned, Marlena turned around and smiled. “Mother!” Maeve walked into her granddaughter’s nursery and smiled. “Well you were. YOU would never tell us when you were hurt or if you needed something. Now here we are, you’re grown up BUT, you still won’t say a word when you need something.” She looked at her daughter closely. “Or is it someone.”

Marlena’s response of merely shaking her head was enough of a clue for Maeve to laugh delightedly. “Oh it WAS someone. Your father was right.” Marlena held up her hand and let out a pitiful moan. “Oh please, Mother don’t tell me he’s back at matchmaking again.” She grimaced. “The LAST time he did this, we had the florist coming for WEEKS!”

Maeve smiled. “Darling, you know that your father wants nothing more than to see you happily settled with a man who adores you and who would be an wonderful father for Belle.”

Marlena shook her head. “Father should be spending more time regaining his strength INSTEAD of worrying for me.” She shut her eyes. “Or worrying for Bo.”

Maeve’s eyes closed at the thought of her youngest. “How was he when you saw him Mamie.” She reached for the photo on Marlena’s desk. It was of Bo, cradling his baby niece.

“Bo was in his usual myself against the world mode. He isn’t ready to come and speak and there was nothing that I could do to get him here.”

Maeve let out a sigh. “Sounds very much like your father.”

Marlena smiled. “They are very much alike.” Maeve nodded and picked up the photo that Marlena had placed on Belle’s night table. “You two had a very good time in Vancouver didn’t you.” She studied her daughter. “In fact I think Vancouver was very good for you.”

Marlena pondered her mother’s words for a moment. “How can you say that?” Maeve smiled and wrapped her arms around her girl. “Because your eyes aren’t as shadowed. You may not be ready to admit things. But you’re on the way.”

Marlena’s eyes widened. “On the way to what? John is an employee of Father’s and nothing more.” She shook her head, unable to even consider him anything more and yet cursing her heart for aching for him.

*~*~*~*~*~*

He turned around and shook his head in disbelief at the statement his Father had just said. “You did WHAT?”

Alexander smiled viciously. “I said that you’re finished with Music. Your place is at my side as the Heir to the family fortune.” Bo shook his head. “That’s what you have Mamie and Belle for.”

He began to feel feverish as he relived what happened next. How he and Alexander had begun to physically fight, smashing some of his mother’s precious things. He could still hear Marlena screaming for them to stop. “Not today. It’s Belle’s christening!”

With a jolt, Bo woke up sweating. “How am I going to be totally free of you?” He checked his watch and saw that it was only 10 o’clock and the sun was peeking through his open blind.

“I need to get air.” He put his jeans on, reached for his t-shirt and quickly put his dreams aside as he went to join the land of the living.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Hope was just unloading a new piece for her shop from the back of her Jeep when she dropped the keys on the ground. “Why me.” She was trying to think of a way to reach them when a voice asked if she needed help.

She raised an eyebrow. “No, I can manage.” He started to softly chuckle. “Yeah SURE you can.” He knelt down and picked up the keys. “Where are you off to?”

Hope just brushed past him. “Ok, I get it. I’m to FOLLOW you.” He rolled his eyes. “So do you have a name?” Hope said nothing as she waited for him to open the door. “Greta? Ethel?” She moved around him as she came inside and laid the package on the ground. “My keys please?”

Bo chuckled. “No, not until I get a name. I was taught by my mother to always get the name of the person in distress.”

She was about to speak when the little bell above the door jingled. “Hope?” Never taking her eyes off of the mystery man, she called out. “I’m back here John!”

Bo let out a snort. “Why are you following me?” John’s eyes widened. “Excuse me?” Hope looked to her brother. “This fellow helped me bring in the art pieces I picked up from Serena. Do you know him?”

John shook his head. “No, not officially. But Marlena knows him really well. Hope Black, I’d like to introduce you to Bo Evans.”

“So Bo, I’d like to say thank you for helping my sister.” Bo’s eyes widened. “So your HIS sister.” He made a face and shook his head as Hope nodded. “You have my sympathy.”

Hope dropped her head so that her smile couldn’t be seen. “I’m going to call Serena, excuse me.”

As John watched Bo paying attention to Hope, he decided to stop that in the bud. “So Bo, have you been in touch with Marlena lately?”

He scored a hit as Bo’s eyes widened. “Why?”

“Your niece’s father’s returned.” Bo let out a breath he didn’t realize that he was holding. “That sick son of a.” He ran his hand through his hair. “Oh poor Marlena.”

He turned his attention back to John. “So since you’re working for my family. What are you still doing here?” He went to examine a figurine. “Shouldn’t you be digging up information on Phillip to help Marlena’s case?”

John glared at the young man and wondered just how he could be related to the woman he cared so much for. Bo was a spoiled stubborn and arrogant pain in the butt.

“For your information, I was called home to finish up a case I had worked on before I was hired by your father.”

Hope came back to find the two men close to blows. “What’s going on here?” Bo shot a look at John. “Ask him, I’m leaving. It was nice to meet you Hope.” He pointed to John. “This isn’t over but I’ll tell Gracie you were asking about her.”

Hope watched her brother. “I take it that Sunday Dinners at the Evans house are going to get a lot more interesting once you marry Marlena huh big brother?”

Shaking his head, John grimaced. “If I have told you once, I’ve told you a THOUSAND times, I don’t like or BELIEVE in that word. So stop using it please.” He grabbed her purse and handed it to her. “Besides, Sunday dinners at the Evans house with the brat and I would NEVER happen. I’d break his neck before we’d even get to the dinner table.”

*~*~*~*~*~*

Marlena was just getting out of the bath when her phone rang. Reaching for her robe, she ran for it and climbed on the bed. “Hello?”

Her smile faded at the voice on the other end. “Don’t you dare start this with me. YOU won’t come home and face him, and yet here you are little brother giving ME a lecture on handling Phillip.”

“Marlena, you misjudged him before. You have to think clearly.” She shook her head. “I’m not in the mood for this. I spent the whole afternoon with the lawyers and to have my runaway brother start in. Well Bo, you’re just the icing on the whole day. No wonder my head’s throbbing.”

He was about to say something else when she decided to cut it off. “Tell you what little brother. YOU come home to face Dad and THEN will I listen to you. Otherwise forget it. Good night Bo.”

She was just getting off the bed to dry off properly when it rang again. Feeling her anger rising up again, she didn’t even count to 10. She yanked the phone off the hook.

“Listen to me you moron. I told you come home and THEN we’ll discuss what I’m going to do. So do me a favor and go to hell.”

She grew worried when she heard laughter on the other end of the line. “Hello to you too.” She fell back against her pillows. “I was going to say that I missed you, but if you feel THAT way about me.”

She shook her head, feeling foolish that she finally had him on the phone and she blasted away without thinking. “I’m sorry, it wasn’t you. I had a rough phone call with Bo five seconds before you called. We had a fight in which I hung up on him and when the phone rang again, I.”

“Thought I was him.” He laughed. “Poor Mamie.”

She couldn’t believe that she missed him so much. “How’s Brady?”

John smiled. “He misses Belle. So does Maddy I think. But Gran won’t admit it.” Marlena smiled. “Who would of thought it. The Black’s are shy.”

John checked his watch. “Only about some things. But when we know what we want, there is nothing or no one who can stand in our way.”

Marlena blushed at the intensity of his words. “So how goes the case?”

John’s voice felt like a blanket, surrounding her in warmth and love. “I didn’t call to talk about this case. Mili, I called to talk about something far more important.”

Marlena’s eyes widened. “What did you just say?” John smiled. “I said that I’m flying in tomorrow. I miss you and I want to be with you. I have to leave in 30 minutes. My plane leaves at midnight.”

Marlena felt tears tickling her lashes as she put the phone to her lips for a moment before drawing it to her heart. “Mamie?”

She put it back to her ear. “I heard you. I can’t wait for you to be here.” John smiled at how soft her voice sounded. “So I have to go now, so you can go to sleep and dream of me and soon I’ll be with you.”

She started to laugh. “Awfully cocky aren’t you? Who’s to say that I WANT to dream of you?” John joined in the laughter. “A man can dream can’t he? Say goodnight Marlena.”

She looked at the picture of the two of them on her night table. “Good night John.”

As he heard her hang up, he brought the phone to his heart. “Good night my Mili.”

*~*~*~*~*~*

She was just waking up when she heard giggling. She immediately recognized Belle’s tinkling baby belly laugh but the second one, she just couldn’t place.

Then she heard a voice softly sshing them. “Don’t wake her up.”

“Oh John.”She felt a thrill run through her all the way to her toes as it suddenly hit her who the second giggler was. “He brought Brady.”

It took all she had as she heard her bossy toddler taking control. “In de tory books, de pwince kissed de pwincess.” She looked up at John. “So kiss her.”

With that, Marlena sat up like a shot and smothered her girl in kisses. “Dat’s not vewy nice.” Belle wiggled. “No more fairy tales for you angel baby.” She was radiant as she held out her arms and hugged Brady. “Hello there scooter.”

She rested her cheek on Belle’s head and peeked up at John. “Hello there.” He grinned back. “Good Morning.” She nodded and hugged the children. “It is a very good morning now.”

John heard the knock on the door and came back with the breakfast tray. “Breakfast for four.”

Brady wrapped his arm around Marlena’s neck. “As it should be all the time.”

Marlena smiled at Brady and glanced at John. “Tell you what little Brady. As long as your here, I promise that we’ll all have breakfast together. Would you like that?”

As the excited children chattered to themselves, John reached out and caressed her cheek. “Welcome back.” She leaned her head to the side and smiled. “I missed you.”

*~*~*~*~*~*

“What are you laughing at?” She shook her head. “Not laughing.” John grabbed her and gave her a hug, which neither one was ready to break. “You are so.”

He lowered his lips to hers just in time to hear Belle’s imperial command. “We’re ready.” They pulled apart and found the children all washed and ready to go. “Well then, it’s off to Ontario Place.”

John watched as the Pied Piper, known more formally as Marlena took the children firmly under control and made sure they had a blast. He was finding it hard to believe that the lady who bewitched him in that white evening gown was really the same one dressed in shorts and a t-shirt sharing ice cream with two exuberant toddlers.

“Someone’s tired.” John came and scooped up Belle, as her little eyes were closing as she was trying to eat her ice cream cone. Marlena cleaned up Brady, who was also falling asleep. But doing a better attempt to stay awake.

“Well they have had a busy day.” She reached around him and threw out their garbage. “Don’t forget they haven’t seen each other in weeks.” John grinned. “Could say the same for you and I.” He reached out and caressed her cheek. “I missed you Mili.”

She blushed, allowing him to draw her in for a bear hug, which was broken by a tiny voice. “I’s squashed.”

Laughter rang out on the summer’s night, creating another memory to hold them for a long time.

*~*~*~*~*~*

“You have to meet him Hope. I swear he’s the man for you.”

Hope finished putting her hair up in a ponytail. “I don’t have time Serena.” Without a word, Serena grabbed a hold of her friend’s hand. “C’mon.”

She was led to a man, who had his back to them. “Ok, I found her. Thomas Cook, I’d like to introduce you to Hope Black.” He turned around and Hope’s eyes widened. “YOU!”

Bo shook his head. “Hello John’s little sister.”

She looked him over. “John was right. Marlena got all the charm. YOU got the tact of a bull in a china shop.”

With a grin that both her grandchildren knew meant trouble, Maddy watched from a corner as her granddaughter faced off with the stranger. Even with the matchmaking eyes of the incurable romantic, Maddy knew it was plain to see

These two were made for each other.

*~*~*~*~*~*

“I said NO.” John smiled. “You will come and you’ll enjoy yourself.” Marlena peered up from her reports. “Again, I’m saying NO. John, I can’t just drop things here. I’m the Vice-CEO. I can’t go on a whim.”

John leaned against her desk. “Maybe it’s time you started thinking of yourself.”

She shook her head. “You are truly something Mr. Black.”

He was going to speak when the intercom buzzed. “Hold that thought John.” Marlena punched the button. “Marlena here.”

She hung up the phone. “I have to run down to Paul’s office. Wait here and maybe, just maybe I could be convinced to come to dinner.” She held up a hand. “But you will have to be very persuasive.”

John nodded at her statement, a grin across his features. “I can be persuasive.”

She grabbed the files she needed and winked. “You can practice while I’m gone.”

John watched her go and went to check out the view from Marlena’s office windows. He could almost see to the CN Tower and was just turning around when he heard Marlena’s assistant starting to scream.

“I said that YOU can’t go in there.” Suddenly the door flew open and a man came striding in. “Where is she?” John raised an eyebrow. “I’m so sorry Mr. Black, Mr. Donovan wouldn’t let me explain that without an appointment.” John nodded. “It’s ok.”

“So, Mamie has you on a leash.” John came away from the window. “I beg your pardon?”

“Her new lover. She always keeps them on a short leash.” He examined John. “Mind you, you don’t seem her type. She likes the ones who can keep her in a position of power. That she can have the control.”

John shook his head. “You pitiful little man.”

Phillip held out his hand. “I should have introduced myself at the Party. You are the newest inductee to the soon to be ex lover of Marlena Evans club. We meet every second Sunday of the month.”

Marlena walked in just in time to see John’s fist connect with Phillip’s Jaw. “NO!” She ran and pulled him off the fallen man, who seemed genuinely thrilled that he hit him.

“You always did like hotheads, didn’t you sweetie.” Marlena shook her head, unable to believe how foolish they both were.

“YOU just handed him Belle. He’ll use that against me.” She shoved at him. “John, how could YOU!”

He turned around and reached into his jacket. “I didn’t.” He pulled out the tape recorder. “Its voice activated. I was provoked. Phillip CAN’T use anything against you sweetheart. Illegal or not, No judge would look kindly to a father so totally trash talking about the mother of his young daughter.”

Marlena shut her eyes and counted to ten. “Phillip get OUT of my office. I find you here again, before our court date and I swear to you that I’ll have you arrested.” She opened her eyes. “I had to have been very young and stupid when I fell in love with you. Because when I look at you now, I don’t know what the hell I saw.”

He was about to speak when the head of Evans’s security team walked into the room. “Hello David.” He glanced at Marlena. “Shall I throw him?” She nodded and went to sit down. “You know the drill David.”

She waited until he was gone before looking at John. “What am I going to do with you?” He came and knelt in front of her. “Everything I hope.” She shook her head. “You did almost cause a lot of problems with that punch.” She pinned his face in her hands. “Though, god knows he deserved it.”

He leaned forward and kissed her. “It felt good to punch him, Sorry Marlena.”

She slumped towards him and started to laugh. “I’ve wanted to punch him for years!”

*~*~*~*~*~*

“I’m sorry, we’re about to close.” Hope looked up at the man standing there and grimaced. “What do you want Bo?”

He looked sheepish. “I need a gift for someone. To tell her that I’m sorry.” She looked at him and smiled. “I don’t need a gift.” It worked as he smiled and looked around. “That’s good, cause little one, I’m not buying for you.”

She put her glasses back on. “Ok, who’s it for and that way, maybe I can see what pieces I have.” Bo smiled. “Ok, It’s for my sister Marlena.”

Hope shook her head. “First John, now you. She’s one heck of a lucky lady.”

Bo smiled. “No, I am. My sister has pulled me through alot. She’s made me realize lately that she’s the true symbol to me of family. Her and Belle.”

Hope nodded with a smile, remembering how attached John was to them both. “Family is all there is.”

He looked at her. “You understand don’t you.” She smiled and pulled out a delicate figurine. “What about this?” He nodded. “That’s perfect.”

As she was wrapping it up, Bo hesitated. “Hope, would you like to get a bite to eat?” She shook her head. “I can’t.”

The door chime jingled and a young man came in. “Are you ready Hope?”

She handed Bo the gift. “I’m sure Marlena will love it.” He nodded. “Some other time then.”

Once he was gone, Hope broke into laughter. “What’s so funny.” She looked at her cousin Nicholas. “He thought you and I.” She calmed down, waving her hand to dismiss the situation from her mind. “Lets go eat.”

He nodded. “So where’s Tatiana?” Nicholas shook his head. “We’re having a difference of opinion right now.” Hope smiled. “What didn’t you do Nick?”

He squinted. “Don’t start Hope. The only good thing about this is that John is with Marlena in Toronto. I don’t think I could handle You, Gran AND John at me over this.”

He stepped outside and watched as Hope punched the code and locked up. “Well it’s easy to see that Tatiana is the most perfect girl in the world for you. She’ll even put up with your hockey.”

Nick smiled. “She’s an angel. I’m lucky to have had her in my life as my best friend.” He silently added “Or if I was lucky to have her for more than that.” He rolled his eyes. “I can’t lose our friendship. I mean Hope, if Tatiana takes her internship in Toronto.” Hope hugged her cousin. “Count your chickens AFTER their hatched.” She smiled. “Now let’s go eat.”

Bo stood on the bridge watching the stars and smiled. “To Family.” He pulled out his photo of Marlena and Belle. “You two watch over me. When I get home, I’ll need all the help I can get.”

 

Chapter 6: Family Affairs

Marlena sat on a blanket laughing hysterically as she watched John romping around the park with two children, who were hanging on his every word, action and sound he made in his role as the troll who lived under the bridge, waiting to eat the little goats.

Without warning, John turned and pointed to Marlena. “Let’s go get Mommy!”

Suddenly everyone pounced on her and began to tickle. “No, I can’t BREATHE!”

As they stopped, Marlena was able to sit up and scooped Brady up into her lap with a smile. Marlena looked at John and grinned. “Thank you.”

He helped Belle with her shoe. “For what?”

She shrugged. “Just for helping me relax and enjoy this day with Belle and Brady.” He raised an eyebrow. “Anything else?” She paused and thought about it. “Nope.”

He made a face. “Let me rephrase that. How about any ONE else?”

She shook her head. “Nice try, I’m still not saying what you WANT me to so don’t even try.” She stood up and swung Brady in her arms, sending the little boy into giggles.

John was left to watch as Belle joined the group and Marlena led them in ring around the rosy. As he smiled at the contrast of Marlena the heir to millions versus the Mamie who was a hands on adoring mom, he cursed himself for even feeling this at ease.

Thanks to the woman who gave him his greatest gift in Brady, John had sworn off feeling this at ease. But here he was and now he realized that he had to choose. Go the one way and enjoy this time with Marlena and Belle or stay on the safe road, “And be totally alone at the end of the day?”

He didn’t realize that he spoke out loud until Marlena turned around. “Did you say something?”

He shook his head and stood up, shaking the loose grass off his jeans as he put Belle on his shoulders. “I said that lets just enjoy the rest of the day.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

John came into the library and found Bo standing there. “Can’t I find a place on this earth where YOU aren’t?” John smiled. “Aw, that hurt. I actually was happy to see you.” He raised an eyebrow when he didn’t get the response he thought from the young Evans. “Well hello to you too.”

Maeve came in with a smile. “So it is true. Henderson didn’t lie. You did come home!” She glanced at her son. “Does your father know your home?” John was about to leave when Alexander came inside.

“So here you are.” Bo studied his father. “For someone who is within a breath of dying, you certainly look rather chipper.” Alexander shook his head. “You’re still too much of a smart ass.”

Bo looked at his mother. “I’m home to check on him and he’s.”

Alexander started to yell. “I’m WHAT?”

Bo was about to throw it in when Marlena came in through the French doors, a wide-eyed child in each hand. “What in the world is going on?”

John came and picked up Brady. “Let’s go outside.” Belle shook her head. “Don’t want to!” Marlena scooped her up. “Sssh.” Belle shook her head at her mother. “No.” John smiled. “Let me take them upstairs to your Nanny.”

Belle started to scream. “I no want to see Nanny.”

Marlena rolled her eyes as she handed her off to John. “She’s got the Evans temper. A HUGE flaw in an otherwise adorable character.” She cupped her daughter’s face in her hands. “Say goodnight Belle Rose.”

As John took the children away, Marlena turned around and looked at her mother. “Can’t you control your animal?” Maeve smiled. “You know better than that Marlena. Your father and Bo need to rip each others heads off before they’ll calm down.”

Marlena looked at her father. “Count to ten, your face is so red you look like your going to explode.”

Alexander threw his hands up. “Everything I have ever done in this world was for you children and how am I repaid? One runs off rather than deal with his responsibilities and MARLENA.”

Marlena tilted her head. “Marlena WHAT?”

He pointed his finger at her. “YOU, my darling need to lose control.”

Bo and Marlena exchanged disbelieving glances in the middle of the tirade. “Pardon me?” Alexander nodded. “You heard me. Bo needs more of your control and YOU need more of his wild streak.”

Marlena shook her head and looked at her mother. “Can I leave Belle with you tonight?” Maeve nodded. “Why?”

She pointed at Alexander. “Because if I stay here, I’m going to say something that I KNOW I’ll regret.” She kissed her mother’s cheek and then paused.

“To hell with it. YOU are an overbearing, pompous fool. YOU act as if you’re the emperor over all you possess. But you’re not. Father if you keep acting this way, you’ll be alone.”

Alexander was about to protest when Marlena walked away. “You’re pompous, but I do love you. Goodnight Father.”

She turned to face her brother. “As for you, I can only say.” Bo grinned and interrupted, seeing the look in his sister’s eyes. “I missed you too Mamie.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“Maeve, where did Marlena go?” The elegant reddish blonde looked up from her needlepoint. “Marlena left. There’s something about a Evans family meeting.” She smiled and her eyes twinkled. “It’s not a family meeting until someone walks out.”

John ran his hand through his hair. “I know Marlena is your daughter. But Maeve, she’s a pain.” With a look that John recognized from seeing Marlena do it when she was studying something or someone, Maeve smiled. “Marlena is truly one of a kind, and I think you’re beginning to see that.” She patted the spot beside her and John sat down. “Let me tell you that the Evanss have always been tough, but when you look deep enough, they need more and love more than most.”

Maeve smiled. “Go to her John.” He looked at her. “She’ll bite my head off.” Maeve studied him again. “I think you’re tough enough to handle Marlena’s temper. Besides, this is your BEST chance to see Mamie truly as she is.”

He nodded and leaned over to kiss her cheek. “Goodness, what was that for?” He smiled. “For being a true lady.”

*~*~*~*~*~*

“Where in the HELL does he get off.” Marlena spun around. “He’s been at me since day one to be responsible.” She shook her head. “This doesn’t make ANY sense.”

She shut her eyes. “What am I supposed to do?” She began to shake. “Like I need this NOW.” She grabbed her vase and threw it against the wall, watching with detached amusement as it shattered.

“Want pitch that to a spot where there is NOT a door?” She grimaced. “Go away John.”

He came in and leaned against the door. “Nope, can’t do that.” She made a face. “Why the hell not?” He smiled at her loss of ladylike composure. “Because I promised you that I’d be here for you.”

She shook her head. “I really don’t NEED this now.” He shrugged his shoulders. “Well a promise IS a promise.” She smiled. “Well there’s always a first time to break one. DO IT!”

He came and sat down. “Spill it, Mili. It’s not just your father and Bo is it.” He studied her eyes. “It’s more than them.” Marlena reached for a pillow. “STOP CALLING ME MILI!”

She spun around. “Everything has to be perfect. That’s all I’ve ever been told and now YOU’RE here and everything isn’t and I can’t handle all of this.”

She looked at him, the emptiness in her eyes worrying him. “The walls are closing in and I can’t breathe and yet they still keep closing on me. My father foists everything on me, Bo won’t grow up, I could lose my baby girl and yet the only person who loves me regardless is Mother and she’ll NEVER speak up against the almighty Alexander.”

She ran a hand through her hair. “Why are you here?”

He shook his head. “Pardon me?” She grimaced. “Don’t tell me you’re losing your hearing. I asked you what keeps you coming back? Why do you stay?”

He leaned forward. “Don’t you know?”

She waved her hand. “I absolve you of your promise. You don’t have to stay. I’ll deal with my problems alone. Have before, why shouldn’t now be different?”

“Marlena?” She reached for the first thing in her line of sight and threw it at him, which sent him into laughter. “Aww that’s not nice. Marlena, what did that bear do to you?”

Annoyed at his laughter, Marlena threw her hands up. “Won’t you for once listen to me. Leave me ALONE!”

He came at her and caught her hands in his. “NO, I won’t.” He searched her eyes. “Want to know why?” He smiled at the look in her eyes. “Too bad, I’m going to tell you anyways.”

She began to struggle and so effortlessly he had her in his arms, ensuring that she was NOT going anywhere.

“I thought that YOU and I were friends and as such we could deal with each other’s problems.” Marlena’s face contorted. “You know what they say about assumptions?” Her eyes glittered dangerously bright. “YOU assumed that by being nice and my saving grace that you’d get me into bed. SORRY!”

He shook his head. “That’s IT!” He stood up and slung her over his shoulder. “What in the HELL do you think you’re doing.”

He walked into the bathroom and turned on the cold water, dumping her into it.

“WHAT IS THAT FOR!”

He looked at her. “You stay in there till you think you can keep a civil tongue in your head.”

Marlena glared up at him and reminded him of a soaked but angry kitten. “Want to talk now?” She shook her head. “NO!”

He shrugged his shoulders and suddenly Marlena could see that he was furious, but managing to keep under control by a thread. “Fine, suit yourself. YOU get sick and then realize that I was right and you just needed to talk to someone.”

He sat in the doorway and watched her. “Whenever your ready Marlena.”

She smirked. “Hope you have a lot of free time John.”

He nodded. “Oh I do. When it comes to you freezing some sense into your pretty head. I’ll have the rest of my life.”

At that, she began to cry. “Marlena?”

She swatted at his hand. “I’m such a wretch. I can’t even keep it together anymore and here you are.” She began to cry harder. “Why don’t you just leave me here.”

John stood up and went and got a big bath towel off the rack. “C’mon.”

He reached in and took her hand, smiling as she began to shake. He began to towel her hair until the shaking proved too much for her “Go put on a robe and come back out.”

She nodded and paused at the door. “John?”

He looked. “What?” She smiled. “Thank you.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“You know something, I should be the one to say I’m sorry.”

Marlena looked up from her cup of hot tea. “You have nothing to be sorry for.” She drew her feet up under her on the couch. “John, you were a friend.”

He nodded. “Some friend, I toss you in the shower and freeze you to death.”

They both laughed. “What’s happening between us?” Marlena tucked her hair behind her ear. “What do you mean?”

She began to cry. “I know it sounds silly, but I need to know what’s happening here.” He wrapped his arms around her. “You’re not silly and right now, I’ll be very honest. I have no clue what this is or what to call it. But we’re not really ready to deal with THAT. First, we need to deal with what had you tossing an unarmed teddy bear at me earlier along with a very lovely crystal vase.”

She shook her head. “Its everything, Father and Bo, running everything and now Belle.” She lifted her head slightly so she could see his face. “I meant what I said, I can’t handle it all anymore.”

He caressed her cheek. “Seriously answer me something. Why couldn’t you have just said to your father that you didn’t want to run the companies?” Marlena shook her head. “That would have been like spitting in a windstorm. You do NOT tell Alexander that you’re not doing something.”

He pulled her to him again and this time, she didn’t struggle. “Well my little mouse in which beats the heart of a lion. You have to learn to stand up and say NO.”

He got no response and tilted his head to find that Marlena was sleeping with her hand curled up on his chest.

“Good night Mamie.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

John woke up and found Marlena, arms crossed staring out the window listening to the radio. “Was it something that I said?” Surprised, Marlena turned around and shook her head. “Pardon?” He smiled. “I fell asleep with you in my arms, I wake up and you’re out of them.” She came and sat on the couch. “I’m sorry.”

John propped his head up on his hand. “You keep saying that. There’s nothing to be sorry for.” Marlena nodded. “There is. I keep showing you the worst of me. But yet you stay.” John grinned. “That is what friends are for.”

Marlena was about to speak when suddenly she caught sight of something in John’s eyes that unsettled her. “Do you want to talk why you look like you’re about to cry?”

He smiled. “And now who is supposed to be taking care of who here?”

Marlena smiled and leaned her head against the back of her couch. “I think we’re stuck with each other.”

She turned her head to study him and she smiled. “Yep, I think we are.”

She straightened up and smiled. “So do you want to talk about it?”

He shook his head. “Not now.” He stood up. “Where’s your kitchen?” Marlena’s eyebrows shot up. “What?” He squinted at her with a smile. “You know, a Kitchen. Where you go to make breakfast?”

Marlena started to laugh. “Go down the hall bright eyes and you’ll find it.” She stood up and headed off to the bedroom. “Where are YOU going?” Marlena grinned. “To get dressed. Not that often I have a man making me breakfast.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Maddy was sitting by herself in the garden when the cordless phone rang. Thinking it was John; she picked up and smiled. “Hello?”

“Hello Maddy.” The matriarch of the Black family froze. There was only one voice like that and that person nearly destroyed the people that Madeline loved.

“I said HELLO, Maddy.” She shook her head and wondered just what this woman was up to.

“He’s not here.” The woman on the other end tapped her nails against the phone. “Well, who said that I wanted to talk to him anyway? You are very important to me in other ways and whose to say that I didn’t want to spend time talking to you?”

Maddy counted to ten and thought of Brady, safely away with John and Marlena.

“In all the time you were in our lives, you had NO time for me so kindly don’t start this now. What do you want?”

She laughed. “Tell John that I was thinking of him and that I miss my little gem.”

In anger, Maddy slammed the phone. “God help us if she’s really back.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“Ok, spill it.”

Marlena stopped walking and faced her brother. “Spill what?” Bo shook his head. “You can’t HIDE anything from me, Mamie. Don’t even try.”

She turned and shrugged her shoulders. “Don’t know WHAT you mean.”

He studied her intently for a moment and nodded. “You do so know. What’s going on with you and the P.I.? Are you two serious?”

Marlena started to laugh. “I don’t find this funny Marlena.” She nodded. “Well I DO!”

She stopped to tie her sneaker. “You need to worry over dealing with Father than you do over my non-existent love life.”

He wrapped an arm around her shoulder. “Marlena, I don’t WANT to deal with him anymore. I am a big boy.” Marlena shook her head. “Yeah, a big boy who acts like he’s four. Bo, show him that you’re the bigger man.”

“Marlena, let’s just enjoy our walk alright?”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“I’m NOT betting on this.” She made a face. “You’re insane.” John grinned. “I am not. You just can’t say it. Three little words and it’s not as if they’re more than one syllable. I’m sure that you CAN squeak them out if you wanted to.” Marlena smirked. “Well then YOU say it.”

John shook his head. “No, no I won’t. I’m not the one with the problem here.”

Marlena shut her eyes. “Why are you making this so hard? What have I done to you?”

“Only terrorized me when I’m asleep with visions of you in my arms. Of making love to you and having your face be the last thing I see and the first dream I wake up to.”

“I’m waiting. What have I DONE to you?”

John shook his head. “Mili.” He stopped with her warning glance. “Marlena. Just tell me if you want this to go further. I don’t want to play games anymore. I think as adults it doesn’t do us any good to be playing a game of Keep Away.”

She shook her head. “John, I’m not afraid. But what I can’t understand is why you think a couple of kisses means that it has to be MORE.”

He ran his hand through his hair and searched her features for some sign that she understood. “I’m not the type of a guy who plays fast. I’ll admit this, but I play for keeps.”

“So what am I supposed to do with this knowledge? It doesn’t mean what you think.”

He walked towards her. “Prove it.” She blinked. “What?”

Marlena suddenly realized that literally and figuratively, she was backed against the wall. The blue eyes turned to black and Marlena saw at that moment the power that lay behind John’s easy going exterior, and that scared her to know it could engulf her.

“Prove to me that the kisses mean nothing.”

She shook her head. “I’m not a circus performer to jump on command.”

He slowly inhaled and then shook his head. “I’m trying to be a gentleman about this. But damn it Marlena, you’re making this so hard. I get around you and I lose control. This is NOT what I planned for, but here I am.”

She raised an eyebrow and that small act enraged him for some unknown reason.

“I’ve tried to play nice but you know what, it’s true what they say. Nice guys DO finish last.” He caressed her cheek. “Want to know something else, Mamie I am tired of being last. Marlena, I want YOU.”

He pulled her to him and the intensity began to drown them both.

Frightened from what she saw in his eyes, afraid to lose the part of her she has kept safe to him, she began to struggle, “I don’t need to prove anything. I know I am not…”

He decided it was simpler not to let her finish. The woman could argue with the dead. He covered her mouth with his quietly, with barely a whisper of pressure and promise. When her hands jerked up to his chest, he scooped an arm around her waist and brought her gently closer.

For his own pleasure, he skimmed his tongue over her lips, then dipped inside when they parted. He thought, foolishly, that he could hear a window to paradise begin to creak open.

Then she trembled, and he forgot to be amused at both of them.

She felt everything turning to liquid and was feeling thankful that John was holding her. “I want.” He paused and looked at her. “You want what?”

“I don’t…I can’t…God.” The hand pressed against his chest balled into a fist.

“Marlena, tell me what you want.” She shook her head and John began to gently nibble on her earlobe. “Tell me.”

She looked at him and John was stunned to see her eyes glowing amber as she lowered her eyes to see her hand resting on his chest. “I want..” The effect of his hands and his lips exploring her skin was beginning to drown her again.

He stopped and Marlena felt like crying. “Mamie, do you want me to stop?”

She shook her head, “I want you to leave me alone.”

Sensing her turmoil, John gently caressed the back of her neck with one hand while pulling her closer to him. “Marlena, What does your heart say?.”

She leaned her head against his while he gently kissed the side of her face and then the curve of her neck.

She wanted him and would have said it to him without fear, but suddenly she felt the room closing in around her and she began to struggle.

“Let go, John. Please let GO!” She shoved at him and he could see the tears in her eyes. Confused, he was about to ask what was wrong when the phone rang.

“Don’t answer it Marlena. We need to talk about this.” Suddenly the machine beeped and John heard Maeve’s tearful voice. “Mamie, it’s Mother. Please if you’re there, Darling please pick up the phone.”

Marlena shoved at John and ran for the phone.

“Mother, sorry. John and I were out on the patio and didn’t take the cordless. What’s wrong and why are you crying?” She glanced worriedly to John, who came and stood beside her.

“Mamie, I don’t know how to tell you.” John felt Marlena’s hand slid into his.

“Mom try from the beginning.” She glanced at him, for reasons she wasn’t ready to examine she needed his assurance, and John nodded.

“It happened so fast and Nanny had her eyes off her for a moment.”

Marlena buckled. “Oh no, dear god, not my baby. Mother not BELLE!”

She felt John’s arms around her and Marlena leaned against him for support. “Not my little baby. Not my little funny face.” Marlena began to cry, fearing that she’d never cuddle or sing with her most precious gift.

“Marlena, your father has sent out the security men, Bo’s gone looking.”

Feeling as if she had been torn apart, Marlena doubled over and began to sob.

Rubbing her back in an attempt to calm her down, John took the phone and took charge.

“Maeve what happened?”

As he listened, John realized that he let her down. He had promised to help her keep Belle safe. But he didn’t. “Please forgive me little one.”

“Where’s Brady?”

Maeve cuddled the little boy, who was absolutely petrified and clung to Maeve. “John, he’s here.”

“Hang onto him and we’ll be there as soon as Marlena washes her face and gets calmed down.” As he hung up, John began to get Marlena ready. “I don’t NEED to wash my face. I just want my baby back!”

She began to shake and John took her in his arms. “Sssh, it will be alright.” Marlena shook her head, burying her face in his shirtfront. “No, no it won’t. Not without my Belle.”

“It will be alright. I’m promising that. no matter what it takes or how long it takes. I will find the little monkey and I will be the one who puts her back in your arms.” He cradled her face in his hands. “Tell me that you believe me Marlena.”

She simply nodded before whimpering. “I’ll go wash my face.” He pulled her to him for a hug. “That’s my girl.” He smiled at her. “I’ll wait here.”

As he watched her go, John felt just as devastated. He had never realized until this moment just how attached he had become to the little girl. “God, watch over Our Belle. Let her know that her momma loves her and that we’ll bring her home soon.”

“God, please watch over my little girl. She is all that I have ever wanted and the one thing that I would do everything to protect. Please keep her safe and.” Marlena doubled over again, the sobs racking her body. She stifled her cries with the facecloth as to not alert John to her tears. “Please let her know that Mommy loves her and wants her home.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Marlena sat near the fireplace and watched while Alexander, John and Bo with the help of the police and security teams began to form a plan to search for Belle. Maeve was fussing over her and the stress of the whole thing proved too much and Marlena finally lost it.

“Instead of standing around, why aren’t any of you out there DOING anything. Talk is cheap and I want my daughter HOME!” Marlena ran out of the room and worried, John followed.

He found her rocking back and forth on the floor of Belle’s room. She was sobbing as if her heart had broken and she was softly singing a lullaby.

“Somewhere out there, beneath the pale moonlight. Someone’s thinking of me and loving me tonight.”

Feeling his heart breaking, John pulled her in his arms and began to rock and softly calm her.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“You are my tunshine, my ownly tunshine, you mate me happy, when ties are grwey, you nebber know dear who mud I wub you.” Belle huddled in a ball on the bed and began to cry.

“Peas don’t tad my tunshine away.” She rubbed at her eyes. “Mommy, come find me pease.”

 

Chapter 7: No Chance

Marlena sat in the middle of the guest room bed, cross-legged and rocking a pillow that she had clutched tightly. “Mamie, honey.” Maeve tried to calm her daughter. “If you keep this up.” Marlena shook her head. “I don’t care!” She looked at her mother, and the intensity scared Maeve. “I just want my baby back.”

Searching for a distraction, Maeve turned on the radio beside the bed and regretted it instantly.

The Spice Girls were on and singing Goodbye.

The cry that came from Marlena broke her mother’s heart. Marlena’s eyes welled up again as she piteously cried out one word. “Belle.”

Marlena fell back on the bed and began to cry harder as she curled up in a ball with the pillow.

Worried, Maeve reached for the phone and dialed for help.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“How is she?” Maeve shook her head and glanced at the closed door. “She’s pretty bad.” She turned around. “Bo, has there been any word?” He shook his head. “No Mom. John and Dad are with the security team.”

Maeve shut her eyes, gathering her forces to face the long road ahead. “Bo, we have to find her. If Mamie loses her.” Bo wrapped his arms around his mother. “Mamie is NOT going to lose Belle. We won’t let her.”

The door opened and Marlena peeked out a couple of seconds later. “Hey Squeaks.” She smiled at her brother and Bo could see that even though she had washed her face, her eyes were still red. “Marlena, I told you to rest.” She shook her head. “I can’t sleep without seeing her face in my dreams. So, I thought that I’d get up and try to do SOMETHING. Even if it’s reading to Brady.”

Maeve and Bo looked to each other and then engulfed her in a hug. “Let’s go downstairs.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

John turned around. “This isn’t right Alexander, it’s been 12 hours and no ransom call.” The older fellow was about to speak when Marlena’s voice could be heard in the hall arguing with one of the security staff “Miss Evans.” They came out to find Bo and Maeve on the stairs watching as Marlena had it out with the guard. “I am going outside for some fresh air, like it or not.” One came to stand in front of her. “With Belle’s kidnapping, we don’t want any of you going outside.”

Marlena’s voice turned to ice. “Thanks to the WONDERFUL job that you all did in watching over my child, I’ll take my chances going outside all on my own.” She shoved him to one side. “Do me a favor and DO your job to find my child.”

John grimaced and ran after her. “Marlena wait!”

She walked as far as the garden before she stopped and turned to face him. “Belle loved the garden.” She smiled. “The most favorite photo of her that I have on my desk at work is the one that Mother took of her in the garden.”

John wrapped his arms around her and Marlena surrendered gratefully into the warmth of his embrace. “She was no bigger than a blade of grass, just a tiny thing really. But her favorite thing to do was to go up to the various flowers and sniff them.” She began to cry. “She had seen Mother do that and she started to copy her.”

She leaned against John. “So this one morning, it was Easter, Belle came out all dressed for church and began to sniff the flowers.” John gently brushed his lips against the side of her cheek. “Mother thought it was absolutely lovely and took the photograph.”

John rested his cheek against hers and waited to speak until Marlena felt under control.

“We will find her.” She nodded. “I almost believe when I hear you say that.” He turned her to face him. “Then do. I won’t rest until I have her in my arms and bring her home to you.” He reached out and caressed her cheek. “Tell me that you believe.”

She wrapped her arms around his waist and just leaned against him, listening to his heartbeat. He reached out and raised her chin so he could look into her eyes. “Mili?”

She nodded. “I do believe. As long as you’re here with me and I can hear what you say, John. I do believe.”

He shut his eyes and rested his head against hers. “Then do.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“Do you know the one thing I regret most?”

That simple statement was like a gunshot going off in the stillness of the room. With a jolt, Marlena lifted her head from the side of the couch and turned to face her mother. “Pardon?”

Maeve smiled. “The one thing in this whole life of mine that I regret.” Wide-eyed, Marlena shook her head. “I didn’t think that you ever HAD regrets.” Maeve smiled. “Shows you what you know. I have had more and more the older I get.” Marlena looked at her. “I’m going to go for a walk.”

Maeve watched her daughter go outside and softly spoke to herself. “Most of my regrets have been for you my darling.” She got up and went in search of Alexander.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“I taid NO!” With that Belle scooted across the room. “I not want it!”

The man looked exasperated as the little girl stared at him. “You said you wanted to go swimming.” Belle nodded. “I do.”

He rolled his eyes. “Then put this on and we’ll go swimming.” Belle shook her head. “No I won’t.” He felt like wringing the angelic looking child’s neck. “Why not?”

She smiled sweetly, as if the answer was the most obvious to anyone who knew her. “Not my suitie. Mommy says that I not posed to wear any suitie but my own. Mommy smart.”

“Instead of YOUR neck, I’m going to wring hers.”He smiled and leaned towards her. “Your daddy is not paying me ENOUGH to put up with this little girl.”

Belle looked at him and screamed. “I WANT MY MOMMMMMMY!”

“Well you’re not with your mommy. Get used to it.” He closed the door and Belle was left standing there with the tears in her eyes. “Mommy, come find me pease.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“Tell me something.” Marlena turned around and saw John walking towards her. “Sure what?” He came and wrapped an arm around her. “If this is too painful for you, I’ll understand.” Marlena grimaced. “What?”

“I need to know about Phillip.” Marlena paused. “Why do you need to know about him?” He stopped and laid a hand on her shoulder. “We need to know all about him.”

Marlena searched his eyes. “You think he has Belle, don’t you?”

He shook his head. “Right now, I don’t know and you should know me well enough that I’m good at what I do. I don’t make snap decisions. Not where people I love.” He stopped at Marlena’s expression and smiled. “People that I care for are concerned.”

Marlena sighed and went to sit on a patio chair.

“I met Phillip when I first turned 21. He was everything that up to that point I was NOT to go near.” She smiled. “Or so said the very wise Alexander.”

John came and sat in the chair across from her. “and what happened?”

“Well nothing happened until after I had turned 25.” She paused and played with a stay strand of hair. “That was when I officially became part of the Company, as second CEO after Father. Now, with the gift of hindsight, he waited until I had more power and wealth. I don’t know.” She looked down to her bracelet and fiddled with it. Then looked up and smiled. “We were together for five years when I found out that I was pregnant with Belle. She was born just before my 31 birthday.”

She was about to continue when she saw Bo walking with two other people. Eyes widening, she shook her head, totally confused.

“John, what are Maddy and Hope doing here?”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“So this is where you live. Not bad for a pain in the.” Bo clutched his chest and made a face. “Ow, that hurt!” Maddy smiled “Now children play nice.”

John stood up. “Gram, Hope what are you two doing here.”

Maddy came and hugged Marlena. “I’m so sorry, Bo explained about sweet Belle. If any one can find her, it will be my grandson.” Marlena nodded and then looked at the older woman. “I have no doubt.” She grinned at Bo. “Will you help me make sure we have enough room for our new arrivals?”

Bo was about to protest when the look in his sisters eyes silenced him.

Maddy waited until Marlena was out of ear shot before speaking. “Ok, to explain why we came here.” John glanced at his sister. “I know that it’s NOT Brady, he’s asleep in the house.” Hope hesitated, unsure how to phrase this.

“John, Lauren’s back. She’s been in contact with Gran several times since you and Brady have been here and came to Ambassadors to see me and She’s made it perfectly clear.”

John finished his sister’s words. “She wants him.” He looked up. “Here’s a newsflash for Lauren, she may be his mother. But she will NEVER get Brady back.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“Has anyone seen Marlena within the last hour or so?” Maeve and Maddy shook their heads as Hope walked in. “She got a phone call and ran out in tears. She didn’t say who it was from or why. I tried to find you.”

John suddenly growled. “Damn it, why doesn’t she SAY where she’s going!” As he barreled out of the room, Bo followed. “Don’t even THINK of telling me No. Marlena’s MY sister!”

John shook his head. “Wasn’t about to say a word. Let’s go hotshot!”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“Did you watch it?” Marlena clamped her eyes shut and willed her voice not to shake.

“I ASKED YOU A QUESTION!

She couldn’t tear her eyes off the video screen. “Yes, yes I watched it. What do you want?” She reached out and touched the image of her little girl. “Whatever it is, I’ll pay it. Just let me have Belle back.”

She had received the phone call just moments after arranging for Hope and Maddy’s rooms. Without saying anything, she left the house in tears. Not noticing that Hope asked what was wrong and where she was going.

“That’s better, we like the people we’re doing business with to be cooperative.”

Marlena grimaced. “Please, to show we’re going to be dealing in good faith. I want to hear my daughter’s voice.”

There was a moment of silence that worried her. Then suddenly she heard the man in the background. “Say hello to Mommy.”

The little girl was hesitant. “Are you really My mommy?”

Marlena told herself NOT to cry. “Don’t scare Belle.”

She smiled. “Yes sweetie girl, it’s Mommy. You be good and do what they say to you. John and Uncle Bo and I are doing everything to get you home. Remember Mommy loves you!”

There was silence again and the man returned. “You’ll be hearing from us within the next couple of days.”

Marlena felt panic. “Oh please don’t do anything to harm Belle.”

The last line sent chills down her spine. “We won’t if YOU play properly. After all, we want the little one to have proper manners. Little Heirs to the throne need to know their social graces.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

John and Bo had just pulled into the driveway of Marlena’s house. “Black, she CAN’T be here.” John looked at him and shook his head. “Do you have any other places for us to go and look? Bright Eyes, this is the last LOGICAL place Marlena could be.”

Bo sneered. “Well gee John, if you did YOUR job and watched over my sister, we wouldn’t be chasing AFTER her!” He paused. “Mind you, it was YOUR lax security that caused Belle to be taken.”

They were about to argue when Marlena came out in tears.

Relief washed over them as they ran to her.

Bo called her name and got no response. Marlena looked at John. “You were right. John, he has her. I didn’t think he could have done this. But I have proof.”

He hugged her and whispered against the side of her head. “What do you mean?”

Marlena broke away and pulled out a tape recorder. “I taped the conversation. I remembered what you did at Evans Industries.” She hit play and suddenly John smiled and hugged her again. “That’s my girl!”

Bo shook his head. “So how did you know it was Phillip who took her.”

She made a face. “The pompous twit said that any child of his would have manners. Especially one with as much at stake as our baby would. Listen to the fellow on the tape and you’ll hear him say that.”

John smiled and hugged Marlena. “So have you ever given any thought to becoming a PI?” She shook her head. “Nope. Once I have Belle back, YOU can be the only PI in my life.” She rested her head on his shoulder. “Let’s go home.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

John was just about to go have a shower when there was a knock on his bedroom door. “Oh, I have lousy timing.” He smiled. “No, Mamie lousy timing would have been in about 41/2 minutes.” He opened the door. “Come on in while I go shut the water.”

She came and sat on the end of the bed and watched as John came to sit beside her. “So how are you feeling.” Marlena smiled and peeked at him. “Well, I’m feeling better in a way that I know she’s not with a stranger. But I just want her back.”

He caressed her cheek. “And we will get her back.” She smiled and nodded. “I believe it now.” He shifted so that he was facing her and he studied her eyes, which made her blush.

She leaned in and gently ran her hand over his face. “I believe, but right now, I want to forget.” She looked up. “Forget just for a time that I’m fighting for my daughter’s life.” The intensity in her gaze began to stir something inside John. “I just want.”

He whispered. “You want what?”

She ran her hand over his chest, enjoying the feel of the fabric of the shirt. He cupped her chin with his hand. “Tell me Mamie.”

She pushed him back on the bed. “John, I want you.”

Wrapping his arms around her, he rolled so that she was now safely under him. Looking into her eyes, John whispered. “No more words.”

Marlena’s eyes drowsily closed as she enjoyed the sensations that he was drawing out of her. She shivered as he slowly undid each button, exposing just a bit more skin to the cool air and his lips. He cradled her against him as he kissed her eyes, then nibbled on her earlobes.

“Don’t close your eyes again.” She smiled. “Why?”

He laid her back against the pillows. “Because I want to see the reactions play in your eyes.”

She reached up and ran her hand through his hair. “Just love me please.”

He brought his lips to the hollow of her throat and ran his hands over her skin. “Your so soft.” She tilted her head so that he could continue exploring her neck. He smiled and inhaled her perfume. “You smell so good.”

She shifted and then suddenly she was on top of him, straddling his hips. “So do you.”

She playfully nipped at his lips as she began to undo his shirt buttons and became fascinated with running her hands over his bare chest. “You know what my motto is?”

Marlena peeked up at him as he reached up and tucked a stray hair behind her ear. “No, what is it?”

He sat up and smiled. “I’ll show you instead.”

He rolled her over as he slowly stretched her arms out over her head. He grinned. “Don’t you move now.” She smiled back and shook her head. “I wouldn’t DREAM of it.”

He leaned in and kissed one eyelid and then the other, as he slowly worked his way down, John had intended to be very gentle until he saw the look in her eyes. The hazel eyes he loved had turned to amber and he could see the desire there.

To torment her, he grinned and paused for a moment to say “Patience is a virtue.” Resting a hand on his face, she shook her head. “Not when I want you as badly as I do right now.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

They lay facing each other and Marlena was intently running her hand over his arm. With a smile, John leaned into her and kissed her. “So?” She grinned. “Yep, you were right.” She winked. “I wasn’t dreaming.”

He planted a kiss on her bare shoulder. “We have to.” She silenced him. “I meant what I said earlier. No talk of the outside, right now it’s you and I.”

“You know, we will have to get around to talking about this new step.” She laid a finger against his lips. “Not now. We talk enough as it is.”

He caressed her face. “Ok, no more words.” She turned her head so that she could kiss the center of his hand. “They do say actions speak louder than words. Prove it.”

He rolled over so that he had her pinned under him. “No more sadness.” She slid her arm around his neck, pulling him to her. “Just love me.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Marlena woke up alone with the sunlight softly streaming in the window. “First night together and he’s already dumped me.” She was sitting up when she found the note on the pillow with a rose that he took from the arrangement that Ariane had left when she tidied his room.

“After last night, you looked so angelic nestled in the blankets when I woke up this morning that I just didn’t have the heart to wake you. So I let you sleep on. See you when you wake up.

Yours, John.”

Smiling she decided to quickly go have a shower and join the rest of the human race.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“So do I have ANY standing in this?”

Paul turned around and looked at John. “From what you’ve told me. Yes you have a very good case against her. She signed ALL legal custody over to you. Signed all the papers that you would be the SOLE guardian to Brady.”

John let out a sigh. “That’s what I thought. But when my sister and Grandmother came and told me what she was up to.” Paul nodded. “I understand and with all that this family’s going through with Belle missing, it makes you want to check on things when it comes to children.”

John nodded. “Exactly.” He looked at the lawyer and Marlena’s best friend. “Paul do you have children of your own?” The man shook his head. “Not of my own. But I’ve raised my sister’s daughter since she was a baby. Tatiana is remarkable.” He grinned. “If I do say so myself.” John smiled. “Spoken like a man who’s not one bit prejudiced about his family.”

Paul started to laugh. “Not at all. Besides, Tatiana knows exactly how I feel about her.”

John checked his watch. “I need to talk to the security team that I have out investigating possible sites that Phillip may have taken Belle.”

“That can wait!” The two men turned to see Alexander walking in, leaning heavily on his cane. “I want to talk to you John..NOW!”

Paul shook his head. “Tell sleeping beauty that I’ll check in with her later today.” John nodded. “Thanks for the help Paul.”

He waited until Paul left. “Ok, what can I do for you Alexander?”

The old man came and sat down. “We need to discuss the arrangement.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Marlena was walking downstairs when she heard Hope with her mother. “She hurt him terribly. The worst of it was, she didn’t even think to check up on him until now. Brady doesn’t even KNOW her.” Maeve’s voice was very sympathic. “That is absolutely horrible.”

Maddy spoke. “This was John’s worst fear. To lose Brady.”

“What are they talking about?”Marlena moved closer to the door, feeling very uneasy.

“No wonder he’s so determined to help find my granddaughter.”

Hope nodded. “Brady means the world to John, if he was to lose him to Lauren, well that would kill him.”

“Why wouldn’t he tell me this?”

Feeling sick that he wouldn’t confide in her about something THAT important during all of this time they were growing closer, Marlena turned around and went to look for John.

She heard him in the library and was about to come in when she heard Alexander. So again, she stopped and waited for the right time to come in.

“I want to thank you.” John shook his head. “For what? Alexander, we haven’t found Belle yet.” Alexander waved his hand. “That I KNOW is a given. But what I want to thank you for, is the OTHER part of our agreement.”

“Agreement?”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Alexander grinned. “Oh yes you do. It has to do with the smile that has been on my daughter’s face since you came back from Vancouver. You lived up to the bargain. You’ve made Mamie happy.”

She covered her mouth and began to shake. “Was that all I was?”

“Listen to me Alexander.” He smiled. “No, you listen to me. You were to make Marlena happy and keep her and Belle safe. While I didn’t count on Phillip, you did very well.”

“Yes, you did.” She shook her head. “Make sure that Father gives you EVERY penny that you EARNED keeping me happy.” She looked them both over. “I hope you both CHOKE on it!”

John looked from Father to Daughter and made a move towards her. “Mamie.” She held up her hand. “Do us both a favor and DON’T say another word to me. John, right now I can’t possibly HATE someone as much as I do you. Leave me alone.”

“Marlena.” She glared at him. “Don’t you say anything either.”

She caught sight of the others walking in and she didn’t care. “Bo had the right idea in getting out of here when he did. Here’s a newsflash for all of you. As of today, I’ve resigned as CEO. Congratulations Daddy, You’re alone.”

She ran out of the room, brushing past her mother who frantically called after her. “I’ll get her Mom.” Bo ran after Marlena.

Maeve looked to Alexander. “Well you’ve finally done it.” Alexander looked stunned. “Good thing she doesn’t know ALL you’ve done.” He glared at her. “Stop it.” She shook her head. “It’s too late now to stop anything. The genie’s out of the bag Alexander.”

“Aren’t you going to stop her?” John looked at his sister. “She’d kill me the moment that I came for her. Right now, she’s hurting and not thinking clearly. I’d do more harm than good by telling her what I was planning to.”

Hope searched his eyes. “What was that going to be John?”

He shook his head. “Doesn’t Matter. It’s too late.”

Everyone’s conversations stopped as they heard the brother and sister arguing out in the hall.

Bo’s comment to Marlena of watch what she was doing just prior to her screaming sent everyone running.

They came in time to hear Bo cry for someone to come and help him.

Bo was cradling Marlena at the bottom of the stairs. She was as pale as the shirt Bo was wearing. “What in the world?”

He looked up, his eyes full of tears. “She wasn’t watching what she was doing, she was practically running down the stairs and she slipped.”

Maeve’s eyes widened. “I’ll call an ambulance.”

“No you won’t.” Marlena sat up and held her head. “I don’t need a doctor. But what I DO need is to get away from all of you.” She tried to stand up and buckled.

“Let me correct that. What you NEED is to be taken care of.” She threw a punch that surprised everyone by connecting to John’s jaw. “I know the truth. Deals OFF.”

He scooped her up and held her despite her wriggling. “Let me GO!” He shook his head. “Too late. Despite what you think, I am NOT letting you go again.”

She began to say something when she suddenly blacked out. “Maeve, call the doctor.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“What are you STILL doing here?”

He jumped and found Marlena rolled on her side, looking at him. It broke his heart to see the eyes that had just the night before shone with love, were now so very empty. “What did you say?”

Marlena sat up. “Why didn’t you leave. You don’t have to sit nursemaid over me.”

He came and sat on the bed. “I didn’t leave because I don’t want to lose you. Not when we have a chance for something.” Marlena shook her head and winced. “Don’t do that.”

She looked at him. “What went on was based on lies and I’ve told you before, John I’ve had enough of lies to last me forever and a day. We promised truth always.”

He nodded.

She looked at him. “Don’t do that.” His eyes widened. “Why not?”

She grimaced and began to cry. “Because it makes MY HEAD hurt.”

He smiled. “Ok, no more shaking or nodding.” She looked at him. “Ok.”

He started playing with the comforter. “Marlena, I need to tell you the truth.” She began to turn away. “Don’t do that. PLEASE.”

She turned back. “Ok, it’s your quarter. Tell me what you think I need to hear.”

He hesitated. “Your father was wrong. It wasn’t a deal to make you happy.” He shook his head. “All it was, all the promise that I made was to find Bo and watch over you and in turn Belle.”

He smiled. “Didn’t do a good job on any of those three things.”

Marlena didn’t say a word and allowed him to continue. “To feel what I felt last night, well that was a gift that I didn’t expect and I KNOW that I didn’t deserve.”

She studied his face for a moment. “John, on the night that I had told you about Phillip, why didn’t you tell me then about Lauren and just how terribly she hurt you?”

His eyes widened. “How did you?”

She shifted and winced again. “Doesn’t Matter. But what does is that if you and I are to have ANY sort of a future, you can’t be keeping secrets from me.”

He nodded. “Lauren was a mistake that I made once. I allowed myself to be told I was in love and for a time, I thought that the sun and moon rose and set on Lauren. To the point that I’d ignore the little things that she did that set off signals to Hope and Gram. When she told me that we were going to be parents, well I was scared. Then I laid eyes on Brady and I never realized that I could love someone to that extent.”

Marlena smiled. “Little people are incredible.” He nodded his agreement.

“Lauren decided after giving birth that she didn’t want him and sure as hell didn’t want to get married.” He glanced at her. “I had proposed in the belief that a loving home was TWO parents.” He stood up and went to the window.

“She left him just a week after we had brought him home from the hospital.” He fought the urge to cry. “How could someone do that to an innocent baby.” He looked at Marlena and realized in a reverse way, she did know what he was going through and had gone through.

“I never told you, but Phillip accused me of sleeping around. That there was NO way in hell that Belle was his.” She tried to sit up. “I don’t know why when it takes two to bring a child into the world, why one feels the need to bolt.”

“She bolted for a wealthy man. I’d see her in the papers from time to time.” His eyes grew distant. “I think it was just after they announced their engagement that I decided that it was safer to shut myself up. To close off the emotions and feel safer in not caring or loving anyone outside of my family.”

Marlena nodded. “So how do you explain this fine non-feeling between us?”

He shook his head. “I can’t explain it and despite your proclamations to the contrary, neither can you. Denial only delays it. When I saw you lying in Bo’s arms, I realized that I can’t lose you. We made love last night and while we can’t say it yet. That is what we did.”

She smiled. “I can say it just as well as you Black. But is it really love?”

He shook his head. “Let’s just get you back on your feet before we start to find the name for this.”

She grinned. “Do you often dodge questions that well chicken?” She carefully sat up. “If you feel that strongly about us. We should call it for what it is.”

He went and sat on the chair. “Ok then, my fellow chicken. What is it?”

She smiled. “Nope. You started this whole mess by not being honest. YOU call it.”

He grinned and came on the bed, pushing her back against the pillows. Claiming her lips with a kiss that left her breathless, he paused and whispered. “Ok, I love you Marlena.” She smiled and cradled his face in her hands. “See it wasn’t THAT bad to say it.”

He smiled. “Remember who said it first.”

She began to cry. “I’ll never forget.” She ran her hand over his face. “I really believe now.” He tilted his head. “I didn’t mean for you to cry.” He dried her eyes. “Don’t cry.” She shook her head and winced. “I just am overwhelmed by this.”

The expression on his face suddenly sent her into the giggles. “You’re such a goof.” She tried to roll away. “Oh no you don’t. Now that I told you I loved you, you’re stuck with me.”

She nestled against him. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Wrapping his arms around her, John pressed his lips against the top of her head. “Go to sleep Mili.”

She smiled. “Mili, I could get used to that.”

He yawned. “Then do.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“Just where do you think YOUR going?” Belle turned around and pouted. “I’m going home. I’s a big girl, I can do the cossmock by myself!”

Without a thought, Belle stomped on her captors foot and wacked him with her little bag. As he began to curse, she ran out the open door and went down the hall and could still hear him cursing. “Oooh, Nanny mad.”

She was just coming to the last open door when a pair of legs blocked her way. “Hello.”

Wide eyed, Belle looked up. “Who are you?”

The man smiled. “I could ask you the same thing.”

Belle put her hands on her hips and sized him up. “Noo, strangers bad.” The young man smiled. “Well I’ll introduce myself.” He held out his hand. “My name is Nicholas. But you can call me Nick.” He looked at her. “Now will you tell me your name?” She shook her head. “No. Mommy said.” Nicholas smiled. “Why is it my destiny to be involved with stubborn little ladies?” He looked up and then knelt back down. “Well, will you tell me your name after I give you my cousin’s hat to wear?” He put the baseball cap on her. “Ok, until I find out your name, I’m going to call you Little Miss Blue Jays.”

Belle smiled, liking this new adult in her life. “I Belle.” He smiled. “Hello Belle.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“She’s not home.” He hung up the phone and studied the phone number. “Why you not happy?” He glanced down at his side kick. “What did you just say?”

Belle yawned. “Why you no happy?”

Nicholas scooped her up. “Because the person I flew all the way here to see isn’t home.” He glanced at his watch. “Shouldn’t you be with your mommy?”

Watching the little girl tear up at that word, Nicholas rubbed her back. “Are you lost?” Belle nodded. “I wan’ my mommy.” He held her tighter. “Ok little one. Let’s see what I can do.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“Say it!” She squirmed. “No, I don’t HAVE to.” John started to laugh. “Oh yes you do. I said it first.” Marlena lifted her head. “So, good for you. I didn’t complain. But I don’t have to say it until I’M READY!!”

John was about to continue when his cell phone rang. “Hello Black here.”

Nicholas rocked the sleepy little girl as he spoke. “John, it’s Nick. I’m here in Toronto.”

He smiled. “That’s great. Where are you?”

Nicholas hesitated. “Can I come see you, John you see I have a problem and it would really help if I could come and talk to you about it. I mean, Hope did tell me that she and Gran were staying with you.”

He nodded. “Let me check.” He held his hand over the phone. “Can my cousin come here? He’s having a problem.”

Marlena rolled over on her stomach. “Oh sure. Lord knows that this house has enough rooms.” She grinned and watched him with her chin propped on her hands. “Between you and I, what’s one more Black in the house. Adopt one and they ALL come over.” She started to chuckle at her own joke.

As John gave him the directions, Marlena rolled off the bed and went to the window. “Please God, watch over Belle Rose. Make sure she’s safe and protected. Let her know that Mommy loves her.”

John came and wrapped his arms around her. “Belle knows many things for a two year old. That mommy loves her is beyond doubt.”

She turned and faced him. “And that I love her mommy is also beyond ANY doubt.” Marlena smiled and slid her arms around his waist. “Kiss me quick.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“I HOME!”

Belle began to wiggle so badly that Nicholas put her down. “You live here?” Belle nodded and began to scream. “HEELLLO!!”

Bo was walking down the hall with Hope and saw the blonde pixie first. “Tinker?”

Belle flew at him. “Uncle Bo!”

Hope began to cry. “Nicholas, how did you find her?” He shook his head. “Long story. Is John here?”

Bo nodded, resting his cheek on Belle’s blond curls. “He’s with Mamie.” Hope smiled and dried her eyes. “You had alot of people worried for you Miss Belle.” Belle lifted her head. “I want Mommy.”

Hope smiled. “You wait here with Uncle Bo and I’ll go see if I can find her sweetie.” As she left, Bo stood up with his precious bundle resting contentedly against his chest. “You found her?”

Nicholas nodded. “She was wandering around and found me. I’m Nicholas Black. My friends call me.”

“NICK?”

He turned around and his eyes widened. “Tatiana?”

She shook her head. “Nicholas, what are you doing here?” He grinned, unable to take his eyes off of her. “I could ask YOU the same thing.”

Before the reunited friends could react, they heard Hope. “I knew that it wouldn’t be right for him to be wandering around the house without telling you that he was here. So I just said for Nick to wait downstairs.” Quickly, Bo snuck Belle out of sight, holding a finger to his lips. “Going to surprise your Mommy.” The little girl grinned and nodded very solumn. “Ok.” Leaving a smiling Tatiana and Nicholas to await John and Marlena.

Bo waited until Nick was introduced to Marlena before unleashing his little bundle.

“So will you be staying long?” Nicholas smiled. “Depends on how long John and Gran can put up with me here I guess.”

John caught sight of Hope pointing behind Marlena’s back and saw what Bo was holding. Fighting back tears and a smile, John nodded and mouthed to Bo. “NOW!”

Marlena was about to speak when she heard the most wonderful and musical word in the world. “MOMMY!” Her eyes went wide and she began to shake, tears sparkling in her eyes. “No, it can’t be.” She turned around just in time to be knocked off her feet by a tiny tornado.

Marlena cupped her daughter’s face in her hands. “Where did you come from angel? How did you come home?” She began to smother Belle in kisses. “Tell me baby.” Belle managed to say “Nicky.” Before beginning to wriggle away. “Nicky fond me.”

Belle wrapped her arms around Marlena’s neck. “Miss you Mommy.” Marlena rested her cheek against Belle’s. “Oh baby girl, I missed you too.”

With John’s help, she stood up. “Nicholas, you found my baby?” The young man looked sheepish. “Well it was more like she found me.” He began to tell everyone the story of running into the little lady with the big smile.

“Gabe me my hat.” Marlena smiled. “Oh and it’s a nice hat.” Belle held out her hands to Nicholas, who took her into his lap. “We’re buddies now, aren’t we Belle.” She wrapped her hands around his neck and kissed him. “Yep.”

John wrapped his arms around Marlena. “Oh convent school is looking very good right now.” She started to laugh. “But she’s getting down in age. Went from you to Nicholas.” Belle let out a yawn. “Ok, signal to say goodnight Belle Rose.”

As she took the baby from Nick, Marlena smiled and rested a hand on his cheek. “I just wanted to say that for bringing my baby back to me thanks.” She mischievously smiled at John then turned to Nicholas. “I love you so for keeping her safe.”

John shook his head. “Not just Belle is going to have to be watched. Marlena I’m glad to see that you can say that term of endearment. But you said it to the WRONG Black.”

Marlena smiled as she softly swayed to keep Belle falling asleep. “No I haven’t. I just haven’t said it to YOU. You see John, I’ve said I love you to Brady when I tucked him in. I said I love you to Maddy when she prayed with me.” She glanced to Hope. “I love you for putting up with John for this long.”

As everyone tried hard not to laugh, Marlena shrugged her shoulders and then watched him from the corner of her eye. “So I’ve said it to ALL the Blacks. Just not ready to say it to YOU!”

He leaned in to kiss her. “Well then, here’s a promise that I will keep. When you finally say I love you. It will be a night that you NEVER forget. I’ll torment you until you do.”

Marlena shook her head. “Keep dreaming.” She gently kissed her baby’s cheek. “I’m going to put her to bed now. Excuse me a moment.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“I thought that I would find you in here.” Marlena smiled. “Lucky guess. I’m never letting her out of my sight.” John pulled her in his arms. “She looks so peaceful.” Marlena began to cry as she nodded. “My baby angel.”

He pressed his lips to hers. “Marlena she’s home and I’ll promise something else to you. From here on out, there will be nothing but happiness and love for you and I.” He grinned. “See I can say it. I do love you and will do everything I can to keep this smile.” He caressed her cheek. “This LOVELY smile on your face.”

Marlena shook her head. “Just be with me. That’s all I need.” He grinned and cupped her chin for a kiss. “Then that’s what you’ll have.”

 

Chapter 8: For Those Of You Just Joining Us

Tatiana tilted her head and studied her shopping companion. “Why are you doing this?”

Marlena looked up from looking through the racks. “Because I can.” She grinned. “And because I want everyone that I care for to be as absolutely totally happy as I am right now.” She reached out and caressed her cheek. “And because I’ve always wanted to play the role of fairy godsmother to my friend’s niece.” She put a dress against Tatiana and shook her head. “Now that I have you here, I can do that.” She shrugged her shoulders. “That’s too old.”

Tatiana shook her head. “Their too expensive.” Marlena smiled. “I’m buying this as a gift and I’m going to spoil you, so relax.” She grinned. “Besides, we can’t have Cinderella being outdressed.”

Marlena smiled. “There we go.” She handed it to Tatiana. “You did say that peachy pink was your favorite color.”

Tatiana held it against her. “This is really lovely.” Marlena smiled. “With your hair up in curls and a diamond pendant. You’ll be even more breathtaking.”

Tatiana looked away. “You’ll be so breathtaking that Nicholas will have a hard time taking his eyes off of you.” She glanced at Marlena, who smiled and went to search for her dress.

Fighting the urge to laugh, Tatiana held the gown again to herself and smiled. “I’m Cinderella.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“So you will come?”

Nicholas splashed in the pool with Belle and Brady. “Well if everyone is going then yes I guess I’ll come.” John smiled. “That’s good, because Tatiana and her uncle will be there as well.”

John grinned at the reaction of his cousin. “Nicholas, have you TOLD her?” He glared at John and dove under the water as Belle laughed. “Nope, guess not.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“What do you think?”

Marlena smiled and asked her to turn around. “I think it’s perfect. You look absolutely lovely.” She glanced to the saleswoman. “We’ll take this one and mine as well.” She waited until the woman left to ring up the purJohns. “So we just need to have your hair done and then we’ll be all set for the party this evening.”

Marlena was signing the credit card slip when Tatiana came to join her. “Why are you doing this?” Marlena groaned. “I told you. Because I want to and it would make your mother very happy that you’ll be having a wonderful time.”

She turned around. “I know that by your coming, you’ve made your Uncle Paul very happy.” Tatiana smiled. “Ok, just needed to have it reinforced, I guess.” Marlena wrapped an arm around her. “Let’s go get dolled up.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“How hard is it to say a simple yes or no?” Bo turned around and Hope doubled over laughing. He turned back and got exasperated. “Hope!”

She straightened up. “What?”

She held up her hands. “If you would come out and SAY what you’re trying to do instead of doing a song and dance, you’d get your answer.” She shook her head. “Bo the all knowing man of the world that you claim to be. Are you asking me to come to the gala?”

He grimaced, which sent Hope into laughter. “Yes, I’ll come with you.”

Bo grinned. “Oh, okay. The family is leaving for the gala at 8.” Hope smiled. “I’ll be ready.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“You’re so pretty.” Marlena smiled. “Do you think so Brady?” The little boy smiled shyly and nodded as Belle came bouncing up to her mother. “You look like angel Mommy.” She stood up and turned so they could see the gown.

Marlena felt happy and content with her choice. It was ice blue almost white satin that grazed over her curves and fell into a pool at her feet. It had delicate spaghetti straps and because of the fact that it was so simple in its design, she wore only her diamond stud earrings and a diamond bracelet to set it off.

Her hair was up and only a few curls escaped to frame her neck and face.

“You look lovely.” She felt John slip his arms around her waist and plant a kiss on her cheek. She smiled and slid a hand up to rest on his cheek. “Only one man I wanted to impress tonight.”

He raised an eyebrow. “Who’s that?” Marlena smiled as she turned to face him. “BRADY!”

He hugged her. “You are just so funny.” She nodded. “I think so.” She pulled away slightly and poked him in the chest. “When you said that you loved me it meant that you would accept all of my faults.” He paused. “No, I never said THAT.” She started trying to tickle him. “I think I would have remembering saying that and I don’t.” He grinned.

Suddenly she paused. “Kids get Daddy!”

John’s eyes widened. “What did you just say?” Marlena grinned. “Thought that would distract you enough.” He soon fell down under two tiny tickle monsters. While Marlena started to laugh, she caught sight of her father.

“Excuse me for a moment.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“You look incredible.” Marlena remained silent. “I’m glad you’re coming with us Mamie.” She shook her head. “I’m doing this for Mother.”

Alexander nodded. “Either way, I’m glad that your coming.” Belle came flying out of the nursery. “Mommy!” Marlena bent to her daughter’s level. “Princess, I’m glad you’re home.” Belle nestled against her mother. “Me too Poppa.”

Alexander smiled at the sight of his daughter and granddaughter. “By the way Marlena. I have chosen to ignore your resignation. Evans Industries is your birthright and you have worked so hard.”

Marlena let out a sigh. “I’m putting Belle to bed.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“Well what do you think?” Bo looked up and his eyes widened. “That bad?”

He shook his head. “No, you look incredible.” Hope spun around and let him get the full effect of her dress. It was black and while the bodice was very form fitted and beaded, the skirt was full. Her hair was up and slicked back.

“You look incredible.” Hope reached over and began to adjust his tie. “You are just as bad at ties as John is.” Bo reached up and laid a hand over hers.

They stood that way for a few moments, staring into each other’s eyes. Without thinking, Bo was just lowering his lips to Hope’s when they heard John coming down the hallway.

“Well look at you.”

Hope smiled and allowed her brother to admire her gown. “You don’t look too bad yourself brother mine.” Hope looked around. “Where’s Marlena?”

“She’s upstairs tucking Belle in to bed.” John was about to say something else when he heard a voice in great distress.

“John?” He turned around and grinned. “Need help with this?” Nick grimaced. “If I needed terribly to be hung, I would have found a BIGGER piece of rope.” John started to help Nicholas and smiled at the figure walking towards them. “Hi Paul.”

The family lawyer smiled. “Hello all. Have we seen my escort yet?”

Marlena’s voice came down the stairs. “Nope. You have NEVER seen her look THIS incredible.” John took her hand. “Tatiana is breathtaking.”

“Yeah, because one look at me and your too busy laughing to remember to breath.” Marlena shook her head. “What DID I tell you?”

Tatiana effortlessly came downstairs in her gown. “I know what YOU told me. But I also know what I KNOW.”

Nicholas smiled. “Tiana, just smile and say thank you for the compliment.”

Everyone laughed and headed out for the limousines..

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“Hurry up.”

Phillip Donovan studied his watch and repeated it a second time. “I want them to see us.” Lauren Donovan smiled. “Why, so they can arrest you for kidnapping your precious darling daughter?” He shook his head. “They haven’t yet and are not about to. I know a secret that will ensure that the old man will never have me arrested.”

Lauren held up her hair so that Phillip could do her necklace up. “Well I hope your right.” He spun her around. “Just do what you need to and I’ll deal with my side.”

Lauren rested her hand against his cheek. “But of course love. I want to see John’s reaction when I arrive on the arm of my beloved husband and learns that I want nothing less than MY son back.”

Phillip chuckled. “OUR son.”

She nodded. “Keep thinking that way and we’ll be a shoo-in.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“Don’t look THAT sad Bo. It’s a party not a wake. TRY to look as if you’re having fun.” Bo grimaced and hugged his sister. “Easy for you to say.” Marlena turned her head to look at him with a serene smile on her face. “Actually it was.”

“Hello there.” She smiled as a hand came around her waist. “Hello you.” She turned and nodded when John asked her to dance. So lost was she in the man she was in love with, that she didn’t notice who had walked in.

“I could drown in your eyes.” Marlena started to laugh. “What did you just say?”

John dipped her. “I said I love your eyes.”

He was just leaning in for a kiss when a silky voice called John’s name. Setting her back up on her feet, John gritted his teeth. “Hello Lauren.”

Puzzled, Marlena glanced to John. Feeling her hand in his, John turned to her. “Marlena, this is Brady’s mother Lauren.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“We have to talk.”

Alexander looked up and shook his head. “No, no we don’t.” Phillip came into the room and shut the door. “Yes we do. You are going to convince Mamie to cancel the charges against me and I just won’t have to tell her about your little secret.”

Alexander shook his head. “Marlena and I have no secrets.”

Phillip made a face. “I don’t think that’s entirely true. There’s ONE secret that you’re holding from Mamie that I KNOW she’ll never forgive you for.” He knelt down to face the older man. “The fact has enough power that not only will you help me. I think it’s worth at least half a billion dollars.” As Alexander glared at him, Phillip smiled. “The fact that you are NOT dying.”

Alexander’s eyes never waivered. “To save your sorry carcass, you want to have me convince Marlena that you ARE a fit parent for my granddaughter?” Alexander laughed. “Your more a fool than Marlena thought. You’ll never have that satisfaction. I am dying and you have NO proof.”

Phillip smiled. “Oh you think so?” He pulled out the envelope. “Open it!”

Alexander began to read until he heard the click. Looking up, he found himself staring into the barrel of a pistol. “I think my luck has about to change.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“So you finally have your golden goose.” Lauren clapped. “Well you must be very happy John. To have a woman who can support you.” Marlena was about to speak when she felt John’s hand give a squeeze to hers.

“Phillip was right. You two deserve each other.”

Marlena’s eyes widened. “Phillip?” Lauren nodded. “My husband. Phillip Donovan.” John let out a snort. “Once a tramp always a tramp.” He glanced to a worried Marlena. “Excuse me Marlena.”

Watching him go, Marlena turned to Lauren. “I think you should go. I KNOW that you weren’t invited.” Lauren smiled. “Yes I think it is time. This party isn’t ANYTHING like what I thought it would be.” She glanced around. “I need to find my husband.”

She turned back. “Oh, and when you see John again. Tell him that I do want my son back.” Marlena raised an eyebrow. “I’m SURE that his father will have something to say about that.”

Lauren smiled. “Phillip is very with me on this. We want our child home.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Marlena came outside and felt as if her legs were made of rubber. “Brady is Phillip’s son, NOT John’s.” Marlena lifted her head and looked to the stars. “How do I tell you this?”

She thought of the sweet little boy with eyes so like John’s and felt her heart begin to be broken. “What do I do?”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Alexander would say only that what had happened was so fast that he had no time to clue in. John had come in, heard them fighting and lunged for Phillip. The gun had gone off and John fell to the floor.

Phillip had disappeared into the crowds as Marlena came in and began to take control of the situation, telling Bo to call 911 and for Hope to find Maddy. She began to apply pressure to his wound, not caring that her precious dress was now spattered.

“Don’t do this.” She wiped away her tears with one hand and thought frantically for something that John could hold onto. “Think of Brady, of Belle and Nicholas, of Maddy and Hope.” He began to stir. “John they all love you and need you.”

He let out a whisper that was like a gunshot. “What about you?”

She blinked, relieved that he was awake. “What about me?”

He suddenly grimaced and Marlena feared that she had lost him. “Don’t do this, don’t you leave me now John. Not before I tell you what I need you to know.”

She never even gave it a thought, it just came out effortlessly and simply. “John I love you, I want to spend the rest of my life with you.” She shifted over so that the newly arrived medical team could help save his life.

“I’m wounded and you say it NOW!”

Marlena smiled and watched as he fell back unconscious. “Typical Black. Black out before I can say anything. You always have to have the last word.” She brought his hand to her lips. “I promise you, that will be CHANGING. We’re going to be a team, always.”

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

He woke up and lifted his head carefully from the pillow. Marlena was curled up in the chair beside his bed, her head resting on her arm.

He looked closely at her and saw the traces of tears. He tried to sit up, but pain roared up in protest, sending him back against the pillows. However, his whimper woke Marlena, who sat up like a shot.

“You’re awake.” He nodded. “What happened?” She smiled. “You were shot. You took a bullet meant for Alexander.” He squinted at her. “I did?”

She nodded and began to cry again. “You had me so scared. When you blacked out, I thought that I had lost you.”

With a shaky hand, he reached up and dried her tears. “You can’t lose me. Not after what I heard.” She shook her head. “What did you hear?”

He grinned, and suddenly she remembered just what he was talking about. She blushed.

“Yes you should be pink. I could have sworn that I heard you say you loved me.” She nodded. “Well glad to hear your hearing is in top shape.” They smiled. “I should tell the doctor that you’re awake.”

He shook his head. “Not yet. I’m happy just the two of us.” She shook her head. “I guess we’re even in scaring each other.”

John smiled. “No more scares.”

Marlena grinned, feeling the relief of having him safe. “Marry me.”

His eyes widened. “What did you just say?”

She smiled. “I have no idea, I’m just so happy that you’re alright and that I have you back that I’m not responsible for saying a thing.”

He took her hand. “I heard you ask me to marry you.”

She nodded. “Now that I think about it, I may have.”

John grinned. “Ask me again when I’m up and walking around again.”

She shook her head. “Nope. The next time someone proposes, it will be YOU.” She leaned in to kiss him. “You were right though.” He raised an eyebrow. “I was?”

She tucked her hair behind her ear. “You said that when I was ready to say I love you, it would be a night that I’d never forget. You were right. I’ll NEVER forget it.”

He blinked. “No more sadness from here out. Only a very bright future.”

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