Waiting For The Tide – Nicole R

OH GOD HELP ME!”

The woman frantically searched for a way out, seeing the ocean coming towards her with sickening speed. She instinctively covered her face at the moment of impact. Her last thoughts as they had been lately were of him and their precious babies.

And then, there was nothing but darkness.

*~*~*~*~*~*

“It wasn’t supposed to be this way. Baby, I wasn’t to lose you like this.” He shut his eyes and dreamed the dream of reuniting with her in the grounds of the estate, only now the lovely angel in his arms was now as cold as ice.

“I CAN’T have lost you Doc.”

He turned around and watched the search teams disperse to head out to the crash site. Hoping that the wreckage or a survivor remained. But the words stuck in his head. That they had searched every inch of that reef, but she wasn’t there.

Despite being told the plane was demolished and that there was no way that she could have survived and being cruelly told that his wife died that night, Roman held faith. “I don’t care. YOU search.”

After creating a situation that took out several security guards, the head of the search teams said that they would go out once more. “There is NO way. But if it means that YOU leave here at the end of this, We’ll go for one final search.”

As they left, he turned to the window and heard her screams in his head as the plane went down.

*~*~*~*~*~*

Roman Brady was reminding the security man standing with him of a caged tiger, ready to pounce. He was going to try to get him a cup of coffee when he saw one of the team leaders coming in.

“Any word?” He glanced wearily at Roman and nodded. “Yes. We were just coming in when the last search team radioed that they had found something floating in the ocean. They saw sharks coming for it and they were trying to get it before.” He was silent and then spoke softly. “I don’t know if they have it or not.”

Suddenly a burst of words came bursting through the radio system that sent a shock through Roman’s system.

“WE HAVE HER!”

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

She was airlifted to the mainland hospital and was immediately rushed into surgery. Roman came in and was met by the lead doctor on her case.

He learnt that the main concern was that she was internally injured and that she had been in a pool of salt water and gasoline. “We need to flush out her system and deal with her injuries.” He tried to smile. “She’s come this far, and managed to hold on this long. I think she’ll be alright.”

Roman nodded and felt tears coming back to his eyes. “Oh Marlena.”

*~*~*~*~*~*

Minutes went into hours into days and he never left her side. “I think somewhere along the line, you and I have been here before.” He picked up her hand and kissed it.

“Except this time it’s my fault. If I didn’t take my eyes off of you for that one second, if only I had said to ignore that light and get in the car.”

He began to cry when she finally spoke. “You know what’s uglier than a snake.” He shook his head and a smile came across his face when she told the answer. “YOU are when you’ve been crying.”

She weakly reached over and wiped his tears away. “It’s alright. We’re together.”

He could only nod. “I know. Baby, I’m so glad to see you.” Marlena could only nod before she began to cry. “Marlena?”

She opened her eyes. “It’s finally over?”

He relived the moment when he shot Orpheus. “Yeah pretty lady. It’s finally over.” He propped his chin in his hand and rested it on the hospital bed railing. “I can’t wait to get you home. Everyone’s missed you terribly.”

Marlena’s eyes drooped. “I’m so sleepy.” As she yawned, she had one small request. “Could you hold me please? Until I fall back asleep?”

He grinned and stood up. Careful not to disturb any of her still healing injuries, he gathered her tenderly to him. “I thought that I would never be able to do this again.”

Marlena lifted her head. “Well that makes two of us. All I wanted was to be in your arms and never ever be let go.” He pressed his lips against her forehead. “Well I promise you, that from here on out, I’ll never let you go.”

As he listened to the soft cadences of her breathing, Roman said a silent prayer of thanks with tears coming down his face. “I have her back.”

Goodnight moon

I should be talkin’ to Neptune

He’s the one who will teach me patience

For whoever rules the sea

is now the ruler over me



“HELP ME!”



Marlena sat up with a jolt and looked around the room. Yet again, her mind was tricked into thinking she had been back in the plane. She was safe and she was alive and yet she still found herself in dreams of the worst pain she had ever endured since her fall from the ledge helping Matt.



The nurse walked in and saw Marlena awake. “Oh, Doctor Evans.” Marlena dried her eyes and smiled. “Hello.” As the nurse chattered excitedly as to how happy everyone would be to see her finally awake and doing apparently so well, Marlena had only one thought.



“Have you seen my husband?”



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



Roman Brady laughed delightedly. “Yes Mom, I’m telling you all I know. Marlena’s fine and I should be able to bring her home soon. She had been drifting in and out of consciousness for the past few days, I really thought that she had a relapse from her fall. But it was just her way of healing from the plane crash.” He stopped as he watched the nurse coming out of Marlena’s room. “Mom I have to go, I’ll talk to you when I know more about Doc’s coming home.”



Caroline nodded. “We’ll have the biggest Brady celebration Salem has ever seen.”



Roman hung up and came to the nurse. “How is she?”



As he listened, he broke out into a grin that lit the room. “Thank YOU!”



He opened the door to Marlena’s room and found her looking at him and crying.

Even with the fading bruises, Roman was struck by just how lovely she was and as he came across the room to her, to carefully take her in his arms, he realized that he came very close to losing her forever.



He reached out to dry her tears. “Welcome Back Marlena.”



As they settled back carefully against her pillows, Marlena snuggled closer and smiled.

“Do you have any idea just how being together like this gave me the faith to hang on?” Roman brushed his lips against her cheek. “Hmmm.” She smiled. “As long as I had my memories, I knew that he couldn’t hurt me.”



He stayed silent and allowed her to talk. “But he found a way. He brought me photos of you, with Olivia and the children.” His eyes widened. “Doc.”



She shook her head. “It’s alright, really. I was so relieved that you had gone on with your life. But it tore me apart. To think that it was my life that she stepped into and that it should have been ME with you.”



Roman caressed her cheek. “Olivia never took your place. Lady, you gave me back my life and YOU are the only woman for me.”



Marlena simply nodded and settled back against his chest. “I just want to go home.” Roman hugged her tighter. “We’ll have you home soon Doc.”



*~*~*~*~*



Caroline was right, Marlena’s homecoming WAS the biggest event Salem had ever seen. To have lost her and now by a miracle have her back was beyond pure joy.

Roman kept a close watch over her and was worried over the shadows in the hazel eyes. It was as if she was scared to be home.



He came and wrapped his arms around her. “Hey pretty lady.”



She smiled and rested a hand up on his cheek. “Hey yourself.”



He was about to speak when suddenly Carrie’s scream of “MARLENA!” rang out and suddenly the hazel eyes shone, with tears. As they had their reunion, Marlena’s eyes met Roman’s and he saw her as she had been just a few months before.



“I will help you get back to being that way.”



*~*~*~*~*



“That was some party.” They walked outside and Marlena nodded. “They all missed you Doc.” She smiled. “I missed them.”



As they headed for the jeep, Marlena paused and started to cry. Worried, Roman flew around the car and wrapped his arms around her “Doc?”



She started to shake. “I can’t do this. I’m so sorry.”



He smiled. “It’s alright, but first I have to know what has you this upset.”



She lifted her head from his chest and nodded. “Roman, I can’t go home with you.”

I cry up to the man in the moon

He’s the only one can help me now

I bought the line

That as long as I tried

I could not leave empty handed

But I’ve done all I can do

And now I leave it up to you



Roman shook his head. “What did you say?”



Marlena dried her eyes and looked up at him. The pain in her hazel eyes made him wince. “I said that I can’t go home. I don’t have a home. Everything that we had was blown up.”



He grinned. “C’mon.” As he held out his hand, she raised an eyebrow in a perfect impression of him that made him burst out in a long overdue laugh. “I won’t bite.” He grabbed her. “Unless of course, you “WANT” me to.”



Marlena smiled. “Not in public.” He felt like a schoolboy as he watched her. “Do you have any idea how I’ve wanted to see you smile just like that?”



She hugged him tightly, as if by holding him so tightly, she could let him see how much she needed him. Roman lightly brushed his lips against the side of her cheek.



“Dr Brady, just what IS that smile for?” She leaned back and smiled. “It’s in rememberence of all the times that I told you just how incredible you smelt.” She slid her hand across his forehead and whispered to him. “You know how you asked if I knew about how much you wanted to see me smile, well.”



She paused and deep in thought, made a face that made Roman smile again.



“YOU can tell me all about it once you take me to where ever it is your going to take me.” He smiled. “Dr Marlena Evans Brady, you are just so smart.” She tilted her head.

“Well I let you marry me…twice didn’t I?”



He let out a strangled moan and pulled her to him. “Shut up so I can kiss you.”



*~*~*~*~*~*



He walked behind her, hand over her eyes and every few steps would kiss her cheek. “Are we there yet?” Roman smiled. “Sssh.”



He moved so that he could unlock the door and glanced back at her. “Keep them shut.”



As she protested, she felt herself being lifted up. “What are you doing?”



He smiled and turned on the lights. “Well Doc, I’m welcoming you home.”



He nuzzled the side of her cheek and softly whispered in her ear. “Welcome home sweetheart.”



She turned away from him to see their house. “Oh Roman.”



Nothing was the same, the soft pastels and comfortable furniture replaced by brighter colours and new furniture. Marlena shut her eyes and swore that she smelt fresh paint. She knew that there was no paint. But something was very wrong to her.



With wide eyes, she walked away from him and explored. To Roman, she seemed surprisingly calm. But inside, inside was another matter altogether.



“This isn’t my house, this isn’t the home I brought my babies into. The home we’ve made love and fought and spent such incredible times in. Oh Roman.”



He wrapped his arms around her and rested his cheek on hers. “A new start for OUR new start.”



As she turned around, he could see the tears in her eyes.



“When I thought that I lost you, when I saw our house blow up.” He brought her hand to his lips. “All I wanted to do was curl up and die. But I couldn’t. I had to be here for our children and they needed to have as much security as possible. So I decided to come back for a final goodbye.”



She rested her hand on his cheek. “Oh Roman.”



He nodded. “I came back here to try and salvage what I could of you. I wanted them to have anything. It was then, that I decided to rebuild the house.” Suddenly, He broke out into a smile. “Wait here.”



Her eyes widened and as he ran upstairs, she went to go sit on the couch. Surprisingly, despite the softness of the fabric on the couch, Marlena sat on the edge of it, very primly as if she was afraid that if she sat back, she’d be electrocuted.



To no one in particular, she softly whispered. “This is NOT my house.”



She studied the fireplace and smiled as she remembered the night of his strawberry breakthrough. She smiled as she remembered the look in his eyes as he told her to stop with the science experiment please. Then her gaze fell on the breakfast nook, where she had tormented him with “You forgot about our promise. That I’D stay out of the kitchen, if YOU’D stay out of the kitchen.”



She got up and found herself as emotionally adrift as she had been while floating on the plane wreckage.



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



She was studying the photos of the twins when he came back, carrying a medium sized wooden box. “What I have in here is what I was able to find. Surprisingly, these weren’t touched.”



She watched as he pulled out this and that and smiled with wide eyes as some of the precious things were still intact. Her rings, their wedding license, the twins birth certificates.



“Ohhh.” She began to cry.



What he pulled out next stopped her tears. He watched as a change came over Marlena.



“Doc?” He asked worriedly as her eyes widened. She jumped back away, as if the mementos were too hot to touch. “Marlena?”



She began to shake violently as the room seemed to fade around her. As if being rushed down a tunnel.



She remembered the first conversation with Olivia as if it had been 5 minutes before.

They had been in Orpheus’s Garden when Olivia decided to play nicely and so began to ramble on about Roman, Carrie and the Twins. Marlena, at first welcomed the news on her family. Snatching on to the tidbits like precious jewels.



Suddenly Olivia’s tone turned malicious…



“I tried to make him see that it was alright to go and move on. I even used your wedding goblets. I didn’t know at first that they were.” Marlena had listened to Olivia ramble on with half attention as a roar was unceasingly thobbing in her head.



All she could think was that simply He had “let” her use their goblets.



“Marlena?”



Later, when asked about it by those who missed the symbol of love and devotion for the couple in their usual spots, Marlena would only say that she didn’t know what came over her. She really didn’t know as without thinking or a moment’s hesitation, she had grabbed the box and threw it, surprising both herself and Roman.



Marlena spun around, her hands covering her ears as she let out such an unearthly chilling scream that scared Roman into action.



He stood up and as he grabbed a hold of her, his yell of fear shook her out of her rage

“DOC WHAT ARE YOU DOING!”



She glared at him and yanked his arms off of her. The Hazel eyes devoid of all their usual sparkle and warmth studied the blue ones intently. Roman suddenly saw what the few people in Salem who weren’t on Marlena’s good graces saw, a very cool and very calculating lady.



“You knew him so well. You were partners and yet you let yourself BELIEVE that I died.” She picked up the glass and looked at him. “YOU believed. You said that you loved me and yet you, the one man who knew Orpheus fell for his tricks.”



She turned away and fingered the glass’s rim with a finger. “This is tainted.”



He suddenly realized what she meant. He understood her comment in the hospital of how hearing of Olivia from Orpheus had torn her apart. With a voice full of resignation, he whispered.



“Olivia told you.”



Marlena turned around. “She told me and you didn’t protest at all that OUR glasses that were tied up with such amazing memories could be used with another woman.”



Suddenly her hazel eyes grew cloudy as she shook her head.



She held the glass in her hand up to him, as if in a toast. “Say goodbye to yesterday.”

In front of his stunned eyes, she threw first one and then the other against the fireplace, shattering them.



That one small gesture stunned Roman into action. He grabbed her and pinned her arms to her sides. “WHAT ARE YOU DOING!”



She began to softly cry. “I’m starting us off on a clean slate.”



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



Roman had waited downstairs in the hope that she would have calmed down. But when he came up, she was already lying in bed apparently asleep.



As he counted the hours listening to Marlena’s soft breathing, he was surprised to hear her voice. “Roman?” He didn’t answer her and she carefully rolled over, but winced when she hit her still healing side. “Roman, I know your awake. Talk to me.”



He turned his head. “How could you think so little of me.” He rolled on to his side, his face mere inches from her. “I SAW you die. There was no way that you could have walked from it. Do you have ANY clue how much it hurt me to hear you say your ridiculous comment that I believed ORPHEUS. Marlena, I SAW the house blow up.”



She raised her eyebrow. “So, I married a man who had more lives than a cat. If I believed all the times that I was told YOU were dead, Roman I wouldn’t of fought so hard for YOU in West Virginia.”



She rolled over and grabbed her robe. “Don’t run away from this Marlena. YOU started this by smashing our goblets.” He came up behind her and was gently reaching out to touch her when as if by pure instinct she spun around and glared at him “DONT touch me.”



She turned back around and as she played with her hairbrush, she shook her head. “YOU have NO idea of what I’ve gone through the last few months. Playing his adoring wife and mother to HIS children because if I did just the slightest thing wrong, he would kill mine. That the last thing YOU would be seeing before you died was me in his arms.”

She started to cry, making a futile effort to dry her tears. But to Roman’s amazement, her voice remained steady.



“All I wanted was to come home and be with you and our kids.” She looked around the bedroom and moved around him, wrapping her arms around herself to keep under control.



“But to keep you safe I did what I was told. Then as my reward for being the perfect captor, to hear from HER of being there for the twins and Carrie and..”



She suddenly stopped and shook her head.



“She helped to keep me away from MY life and to hear that she was in mine, in every way, it just felt as if I was burned alive.”



He understood a little better all of this. Reaching for her a second time, he was relieved to have her not freeze at his touch.



“Listen to me. If I had known that you were alive sooner then when I found out, I would have climbed heaven and earth to find you. To hear him tell me that you pleaded for a chance to see me and then when he denied you that and sent you away.” He wiped a tear he saw in her eyes with a gentle hand. “Baby, all I saw was red.”



She blinked and studied him. “All I saw was you.” She moved away from him and went to sit on the bed.



“From the moment that I saw you in the airport window, until we..” She doubled over in tears.



Instantly he came to her and gathered her up in his arms. “You don’t have to say it.”

She nodded and dried her eyes. Looking at him and seeing the concern on his face, Marlena softly spoke.



“I do. Because I have this feeling if I don’t tell you, I won’t ever say it and I can’t live with this anymore.”



*~*~*~*~*~*



He listened to her and wordlessly, he wrapped his arms around her. “I can’t make you forget but I promise you that I will do all that I can to make sure that you feel safe and loved.”



She looked at him wearily. “But what about my nightmares? Roman, you can’t be with me all day everyday.”



He nodded. “But I can make you feel very loved and protected.”



She shook her head. “You always have. Just do me one small favor. If this ever happens again, that I’m taken from you. Don’t believe unless you see my body. Even THEN, don’t believe.”



She snuggled back against him and brought his hand to her lips.



“Do you have ANY idea of how badly I want to fall asleep in your arms?”



He cupped her chin and turned her head so she could look at him. “Do you have any idea of just how much I love you.” She grinned as she ran her hand over his bare back, lost in thoughts of how the muscles reacted to her touch. With a playful spark in her eyes, she sweetly said only one sentence.



“Sweetheart, I didn’t say that I wanted to sleep NOW.”



He smiled. “I don’t want to rush you. I love you Marlena, and we can wait.”



She shook her head. “As someone once said to me, I don’t think I CAN wait.” Roman rolled his eyes and in a self-pitying tone spoke. “She’s not even home a full day and she’s throwing things back at me.” Before Marlena could respond, he claimed her lips.

As he scooped her up in his arms, he had only to walk a few steps before he had settled her on the bed as effortlessly as one of the twins. He took a moment to study the beauty and grace of the woman who had stolen his heart as effortlessly as breathing. Everything that had happened to get them to this point was forgotten as he saw the tiny pulsing at the hollow of her throat.



He knelt down and soon had nestled her face in his hands. “Welcome home sweetheart. I want you to believe what I told you. None of this is as important to me as you.” He lightly traced her features with his lips and slowly began to work his way down. Pausing only to slip her nightgown strap away from her skin. He stopped and smiled as she shivered at his touch.



“Roman.” She breathed and had soon pulled him up and had laid back on the bed so that he was now on top of her.



As he wrapped his arms around her for a few moments, he whispered her name and was rewarded by a smile of such brightness that his heart felt like it was going to burst.

They lay intertwined in the moonlight that poured into the bedroom from the window. Their hearts, long apart were now beating as one, in the same rhythm. The gentleness of this had brought tears to her eyes as his lips gently brushed hers with a tenderness that was almost heartbreaking. His mouth explored hers, softly, sweetly, and his hands began to roam over the familiar terrain of her body.



He rolled over so that she was on top of him. As he laced his hands into her hair, Marlena smiled and soon her hands had begun a journey of their own. For months, she had dreamt of nothing but being with him in this way and now the dream had become true.



Roman copied her movements by slowly sliding up over her head her nightgown, then dropping it off the side of the bed. His hands slid up from her waist to cup her full breasts, holding them reverently in his palms as if weighing them. He lifted his head, and his tongue darted out to tease one stiffened tip while the thumb of his hand lightly brushed the other. She moaned softly as at last he took her nipple into his mouth.

She lowered herself down so that she could kiss him and one of her happiest memories of being with this man came flooding back.



It was of being in a sun filled forest with him while on their honeymoon. As they lounged against a rock after their picnic, their simmering passion came back to play against her closed eyes, She could hear herself saying as she kissed him. “Oh I love your mouth.”



Roman rolled over, holding her as if she had turned into porcelain. “So beautiful,” he whispered as he began to kiss his way down her body. He traced each line, each curve, as if storing up memories to take away with him. The journey seemed to take a lifetime, and by the time he reached the part of her that needed him the most, Marlena felt as if her body had lost any and allphysical substance and changed into some form of liquid. As she felt herself drifting away on a sensation of the world around her shattering into a million colors, she heard a very insistent voice calling her name.



“Look at me Marlena.” She opened her eyes just as he was lowering himself into her and she reached up to caress his cheek and as he tilted his head to kiss her palm. Marlena suddenly was convinced that the eyes of the lover she adored were trying very hard to see just what was behind her eyes. As he lowered his lips to kiss the hollow of her throat, Marlena softly whispered. “I’m yours.” He lifted his head as he whispered back to her very intently. “Body and Soul.”



Their gazes remained locked as their bodies took the final leap of faith…



*~*~*~*~*~*



“Good Morning Mrs. Brady.” Roman came downstairs and found her lost in thoughts. Sneaking up behind her, he carefully wrapped his arms around her. “Oh, hi there.” He nuzzled the side of her face.



Marlena relaxed against his chest. “Good Morning Captain Brady.” He turned her around to face him. “Have I told you just how lonely I was waking up without you this morning?”



She smiled. “Well, I wanted to surprise you.” She pointed behind her. “Oh Doc, you shouldn’t have. You REALLY shouldn’t have.”



It was a small giggle at first, but when she saw his face it grew into a curl your toes belly laugh. “OH I DIDN’T!” She pointed him towards the table. “YOUR MOTHER DID”

He made a face and lunged for her. “I’m skipping breakfast. YOUR Lunch.”

She started to choke from laughing so hard. “NOT AGAIN!”



*~*~*~*~*~*



Roman came in the door and stopped, with a huge smile.



Marlena was in the middle of reading to the twins and Carrie and he realized that he finally had his life in order. As he made his presence known, he asked Carrie to get the kids ready as they were going to go to the fish market for dinner.



Once he was with Marlena, he pulled out a package. “What’s this?”



He grinned. “I know that I broke your heart with the glasses, so I’ve spent the better part of the day trying to figure out what we could have as a symbol for our new start, our new marriage and I finally came up with these.”



She looked so skeptical that he laughed and started urging her on. “Come ON!”



She opened the tiny box and her eyes widened. “Oh Roman.”



“They are called rolling rings. Their five stranded interlocking bands. Which is a perfect symbol of you and I and our life. Together we’re so much stronger than apart. I never felt more alone than I have while you were gone. Now that I have you back.” He grinned and reached out to dry her tears. “Now that your back, when your wearing this. You’ll know that my love is with you and that I’ll always be with you.”



“Will you?” He smiled. “Give me your hand.”



After he allowed her to put his ring on for him, He pulled her to him for a kiss.



“Our new beginning starts NOW.”

 

Marlena sat in the living room, lost in her thoughts. During one of their many late night talks as they lay in each other’s arms, she and Roman had believed it would be best for her to ease back into work. But there was just something not right and it was niggling at her, so she officially put off going back for now. Worried for her, Roman agreed and so she was able to be a mom and a wife for awhile. As she looked around, her gaze fell on the photos on the desk.



So many memories were frozen behind the glass. A line from a song came dancing into her head, just as she stared at the photo of Sami sleeping in Roman’s arms. “So many faces in my heart.” She smiled at just how at peace they looked. But then she picked up the story book frame.



It was her favorite one that had been taken of the twins alone. Picking it up, she smiled and ran a hand over the cool glass. “Oh my babies, you’ve grown so much. I don’t even recognize you anymore.” She set it down and reached for the phone.



The voice had always made Marlena feel so secure and at her simple “Hello?” Marlena grinned. “Hi Mom, it’s me.”



Martha Evans set her bag down on the table. “Hello sweetheart. Daddy and I were just thinking of you.” Frank peeked up from checking the newspaper and shouted cheerfully. “Hi.”



Marlena smiled and willed herself not to want to run into her father’s arms as she had so many times as a child, to hear him tell her that the bad monsters were gone. “Tell him I said Hi, Ok Mom?”



Martha listened to her girl and sensed that something wasn’t right. “Marly, what is it?” Marlena made a face. There were times in her life that she wished with all she had that her bond with her mother was NOT as tight as it was. NOW was one of those times.

“Mom, have you ever had a moment where things were just not right, that you would look around and everything was in place, EVERYBODY was in place and then you realize that its YOU who’s not?”



Martha grew worried at her daughter’s tone. “Sweetheart, you’ve been held hostage for months and nearly died. Of course you’d feel lost. But your home and just take your time getting readjusted.”



There was a silence on the line that worried Martha. “Marlena, have you talked to Roman?”



Marlena heard Roman’s Jeep pull up and she fought back from the tears threatening to well up. She counted to ten and silently told herself to stay in control. “I can’t lose it now.”



She prayed her voice wasn’t as shaky as she thought it sounded. “NO.” She cursed herself for being so harsh. “No Mom I haven’t. I can’t talk to him about this. He’s been just so happy that I’ve been home and now to tell him that I feel just so lost.” She paused as she heard his key in the door. “Mom, how can I shatter this dream when he’s had so many shattered?”



Martha jotted a note to Frank and made a decision as he read it and looked up and nodded at her. “Marlena, Dad and I are going to come for a visit. I think it’s time we come to see you and our grandbabies and that husband of yours. Somehow, I think my girl needs her mom.”



Roman came in and found Marlena in tears. “That would be great.”



*~*~*~*~*~*



Roman waited until Marlena got off the phone before joining her on the couch. As he wrapped his arms around her, he searched the hazy hazel eyes and tapped her on the nose. “Love, what is it?”



She shifted out of his embrace. “Roman, why won’t these memories leave me alone?” She climbed off the couch. “Why can’t I just simply go back to who I was and how things were before this all happened?”



She went to the fireplace and picked up the photo. “While I was away, there were so many nights that to keep myself sane, I dreamed of how our life would be and it’s not that way and I feel so empty.” She turned around. “You know I really understand more clearly what you went through coming home.”



Roman shook his head. “You do?”



Marlena nodded and laid the picture back in its spot. “I’m going to go for a walk.” He stepped in front of her. “I’ll come with you.” She shook her head. “It’s alright. Besides, Carrie will be coming home from school. You haven’t been home when the children have been awake for a couple of weeks, so it would be nice for them to see you.”

He caught her hands. “Have I told you just how amazing you are.” She tilted her head. “I don’t feel amazing right now. But if you think I am, then I wont shake your belief.” He grinned and leaned into kiss her.



He broke the kiss and gently traced his lips along her jaw line, pausing to nibble her ear lobe. “Listen to me. It’s only been a little while since you came home. This is going to be so overwhelming for you and its going to take time to make sure your equilibrium is set.” Marlena nodded. “I’m going for my walk.”



Roman smiled as the phone rang. “Be careful.” She grinned. “I will.” She turned and got engulfed in a bear hug from behind. “I couldn’t help myself.” She started to laugh. “Let go of meeee.” With a smile that stole his heart, Marlena shut the door listening to him planning to meet Abe at the baseball diamond after dinner to work on pitching.



She ended up at the park down the street from their house. There was something so calming to her about watching the children playing. As she said to Roman on his first night home. There was something so magical about a baby and children.

As the afternoon softly turned to dusk, she checked her watch and decided to turn around to go home, when she watched a young woman pushing a stroller.



Marlena’s heart felt as if it was being torn apart. “I want to go back in time.” She shut her eyes and felt the tears tickling her lashes. “I want to be able to control time for once.”

She watched as the young woman stopped and picked up her baby. Smiling, Marlena stood up and decided to head home.



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



“What is all this?” Roman came and shut the door and found the living room bathed in soft candlelight. “This is for you.” Marlena came around the corner and smiled. “Just for the simple reason that I am so very much in love with you.”



He felt his heartbeat roaring in his ears as he took in what she was wearing, or NOT wearing. Her robe opened, revealing just glimpses of the lace negligee here and there.

He watched her as she poured him a drink of champagne. “Where are the kids.” Marlena smiled as she handed it to him. “Did I ever tell you that you talk too much?”



He sipped the drink. “Marlena.” She laid her hand against his lips. “Hush.” She shivered as he drew one finger at a time into his mouth. “You had your strawberry breakthrough.” She took the glass from him and set it on the table. “I’m having mine.” She slid her hands under his shirt and began to pull it over his head. “The children are with your parents and so it’s just you and I and the rest of tonight all to ourselves.”



He raised an eyebrow. “Are you trying to seduce me?” Marlena stepped away from him and slowly undid her robe ties. As it slid to the floor in a ripple of peach silk, she nodded. “Yes, yes I am.”



She held out her hands and smiled. “I just want to feel you beside me and know that for a little while, everything will make sense.” He lowered his lips to the hollow of her throat. “Marlena.” She tilted her head and whispered against his cheek. “I want to feel that you and I have managed to capture a little piece of space and time for ourselves.”



He scooped her up and lightly traced her jaw with his lips. “You have all of me and you always will. Lady, you own my heart and soul.”



He laid her down on the pillows that she had placed in front of the fire earlier on. Resting on one arm, he lightly ran his hand down her cheek and jaw before lowering his lips to hers.



It was as if all thoughts went out of his head. The fire was turning her skin to ivory and playing tricks with her eyes, turning hazel to amber as they studied him. “Make love to me.” He lifted his head from exploring the spot just where her neck met her shoulder and smiled as his hands began to lift the gown from her. “Your wish is my command.”

As he lifted her up and cradled her in his arms, blue eyes met hazel and as they slowly began to rock, Marlena dropped her head against his and he whispered into her ear a promise that made her lift her head and serenely smile as she arched against him. “I love you too.”



As they lay wrapped in each other’s arms, Marlena propped her head on her elbow as her hand idly made patterns on his chest. “So are you ready for your treat?”

Roman groaned. “Marlena.” Something in his tone sent her into giggles. “It’s not what you think.” She leaned over and gave him a playful nip. “For working just SO hard. I think you deserve a very special treat.”



She lightly traced his lips with hers before reaching for his shirt. “Now don’t you move.”

He let out a contented sigh. “Oh, I don’t think I’m going anywhere.”



She came back out carrying a bowl and a plate. “Oh that’s a wise move.” She placed the things down beside her as she straddled his chest and leaned over to kiss him. Swatting at his hands, she smiled. “I’m in charge here.”



He grinned back. “Oh are you now?” She reached over and dipped the strawberry into the whipped cream. “Yep. Got any problem with that big boy?”



As she lightly ran it over his lips before he took his bite, he shook his head. “No” She followed the strawberry with a kiss. “That’s good. Cause I hate having to repeat myself.”

With a mischievous gleam in his eyes that sent warning lights off to Marlena, he shifted position so that she was trapped under him. “That’s NOT fair.” He wagged his finger at her. “All’s fair in love and strawberries with whipped cream.”



He scooped some whipped cream on his finger and traced her lips with it. “My treat for being treated so badly.” Marlena started to struggle and laugh. “BADLY? Baby, you enjoyed it.” He paused. “Did I?” She writhed seductively under him, trying to throw him off. “You did.”



He pinned her hands over her head and as she lifted her head to look at him, they both felt the passion rebuilding again. Marlena sat up and as he watched, slowly removed his gray Salem PD Tigers T-shirt.



With shaking hands, Roman caressed her shoulders and worked his way up, so that he had her face cradled in both his hands. Lightly inhaling her perfume, and wondering to himself just how something that light and flowery could be SO intoxicating, he whispered against her lips.



“I love you.” She brought her hands up to rest on his. “Well, I think you should show me.” She raised an eyebrow. “I think the saying goes Actions speak louder than words?”



*~*~*~*~*~*



As the room grew cooler, Marlena woke up wrapped in Roman’s arms. Reaching down, she pulled the blankets up. “Where DO you think your going Mrs. Brady?” Marlena smiled and shook her head. “I am NOT going anywhere Mr. Brady.”



She rolled over so that they were face to face. “I am staying right by your side.”

He traced her features with his hand. “I still find it so hard to believe that you’re real and your mine.” Marlena smiled and held up her hand that was wearing both bands. “THIS means I’m very real and I’m very much yours.” She grabbed for his hand. “Just as this means your mine.”



He made a face. “So I’m stuck with you?” Marlena started to laugh. “Yes, as I said in West Virginia all those months back, we’re stuck with each other.”



She let out a yawn and snuggled closer to Roman. “Sweet dreams Marlena.” She nodded, already halfway asleep. Roman fell asleep shortly after, contentedly watching her in dreams.



*~*~*~*~*~*



“Doc, Marlena?” She swatted at his hand. “Marlena wake UP!” She opened one eye. “What?” Roman bit his lip to stop laughing. “Remember last night when you said we were stuck with each other?” She nodded. “So?”



“We’re also stuck together. We’re sticky from the strawberries.” Marlena started to laugh. “What are we going to do?” Marlena blinked. “Well I have NO clue.” He leaned over to kiss her. “We can’t stay like this. The children will be home soon.” Marlena reached behind her for her watch. “Not for a little while longer.” She turned back around. “So I’ll tell you what. How’s about joining me in a hot steamy shower?”



Roman raised an eyebrow and was about to say something when the phone rang.

His hands shot out, pinning her to the pillows. “Marlena, if you loved me at all, do me this favor and don’t ANSWER that.” Marlena grimaced. “It could be the children. Sami was running a bit of a fever.” She squirmed out of Roman’s grasp and cursed herself for answering the phone. “Oh hi Mom.”



*~*~*~*~*~*



Roman was sitting at his desk a few weeks later going over some files when Abe knocked on the door. “Shouldn’t you be at the airport with Marlena?” Roman smiled. “Hey Partner. Their plane doesn’t come in till 2.” Abe smiled. “What time do you think it is buddy.”



Curious, Roman checked his watch and groaned. “Oh geeze.”



Marlena’s voice rang from the hallway. “Oh geeze is right. Good thing I know what it’s like being married to a cop.” She smiled. “That’s why I brought the mountain to you my forgetful man of action.” She moved to the side and smiled at someone. “See Mom and Dad, he does exist. I wasn’t making him up.”



Laughing, Roman came over and greeted his parents-in-law while Marlena thanked Abe for giving them the tour. “Anytime.”



Roman hugged his wife. “I’m sorry sweetheart.” Marlena smiled. “I’ll forgive you, only if you’ll join us for dinner?”



He nodded. “Give me five seconds and we’ll be on our way.”



*~*~*~*~*~*



Marlena was up dancing with her father while Roman danced with Martha. “Let me say that you’re as graceful as your daughter Martha.” She smiled. “Glad to see you haven’t lost your charm Roman.”



They turned as Marlena started to laugh at something her father said. “It’s good to hear her laughing. There was a time not that long ago when I thought I wouldn’t hear her do that again.” Martha nodded. “That’s what I was thinking when I talked to her when we decided that Frank and I would come for a visit. Roman, I think the stress of what’s been happening to her is affecting her more than she says.”



Roman’s smile faded as he watched Marlena buckle in her father’s arms. “Marlena?”



*~*~*~*~*~*



She woke up in Roman’s arms. “What happened?” She looked at the worried faces around her. “Doc, you fainted.” She blinked and looked at Roman. “I did?” He nodded and glanced at her parents.



Marlena paused for a moment and then it hit her. “In all the running around today before picking you guys up, I forgot to eat. I’m sorry for worrying you.” She sat up and looked at her husband. Not liking the look in his eyes, she rested a hand on his cheek. “Roman, I’m FINE.”



He hugged her, cursing that he let his worry for her show. “I just want you happy and healthy.” She nodded. “I am so please TRY to relax and dance with your wife.”



He took her hand from his cheek and kissed the palm. “Let’s go.”



Marlena and Roman swayed to the music and he was about to ask her something when he saw her smile. “What is so funny?”



Marlena pointed to the couple lost in their own thoughts. “When I was little, I always said that I wanted a marriage just like Mom and Dad’s. To be THAT in love and to have that trust and commitment.” She looked at Roman. “We almost lost our chance for that.”



He brushed some of her hair away from her shoulder. “Which makes now all the more precious.” She laid her hand on his cheek and searched his eyes. “Yes, it does.” She winked. “Kiss your wife, make me happy.” He grinned back at her. “With pleasure.”



*~*~*~*~*~*



Marlena was sitting with Eric and Sami, while her father was fussing with the camera. “Daddy, do you know what your doing?” Frank peeked up from the camera. “I’ve taken enough photos of you and your sister to figure out which end to look through.” Marlena started to laugh. “Yes Daddy.”



The phone rang just as Martha and Roman came in from outside. “I’ll get it.” Marlena saw Roman’s face change into an expression of concern. “Just a second.” He handed the phone to Marlena. “It’s Dr. Horton’s office. Your appointment’s been changed to tomorrow.” Marlena took the phone and spoke with the doctor.



“Thanks and I owe you one.” She hung up and found three curious faces. “I had my already scheduled appointment moved up. It was just to make sure all my plane crash injuries were healing. But after fainting, I just was worried that something was wrong and I just want to make sure everything is as it should be.”



She wrapped her arms around Roman and smiled. “You’re not the only worry wart in the family.”



Roman made a face as she hugged him. “Are we ready yet for our close up Mr. Director?” Frank peered up and grimaced. “Does she do this to you Roman?”



He nodded. “Yeah, she’s disrespectful ALL the time.”



Marlena made a face and muttered under her breath as she walked away. “That’s IT. I’m going to make some lemonade.”



As she left, Roman looked at his parents in law. “I’m so glad your here. She’s so much more at peace.” Frank and Martha exchanged glances. “To tell you the truth, we’re glad to be here closer to you and our girl. SO much so, that we’re thinking of moving here to Salem to be near Marlena.”



*~*~*~*~*~*



“You know something, I’ve never seen you this at peace or happy since I brought you home.” Marlena smiled. “I haven’t FELT this contented.” She sighed and leaned back against her husband, watching as Frank played with the twins while Martha took photos.

She smiled and turned around. “Lets make a promise. To make every day count.” He grinned and kissed her, relishing the feel of her in his arms. “Every day that I have with you does count. Baby, I’m just so proud and lucky to have you back with me.”



She began to cry. “Marlena?” She shook her head. “I’m just happy.” Roman cupped her chin. “Tears for happiness?” She swatted at his hand and stomped away. “Doc?”



Frank yelled over. “What did you do to my daughter?” Roman shrugged his shoulders. “I have NO clue. No offense but your daughter is being very high maintenance today.”



*~*~*~*~*~*



“Are you finished?” Marlena peeked up from thumping the bed with the pillows. “No.”

Roman came and sat with her on the bed. “Kiss me quick.” Marlena looked at the face in front of her and smiled. “What’s the matter angel?”



Marlena shook her head. “I have NO idea. One minute I’m happy and then I turn into a mess. Or vice versa and I’m so confused that I’m dizzy.”



Roman grinned. “Nah, it can’t be.”



Hair flew in her eyes so Marlena blew them away with a breath. “What can’t be?” He took the pillows out of her hands. “Marlena, I’m not a Doctor. But I think you should have Dr. Horton run an additional test.”



As she looked at him, bewildered. Roman smiled. “Think Doc. Mood swings, dizzy spells, fainting.” She suddenly went a becoming shade of green and ran into the bathroom. “Nauseous. Yep I think it’s a fair guess.”



He shook his head as she returned. “Your pregnant Doc.” She rubbed her chin and reminded Roman of an overtired Samantha as he tried to get her into bed. She ran her hand through her hair.



“Roman, that’s not funny. I am NOT. I’ve only been home not even two months yet.”

She came and lay back down on the bed. Roman took pity on her and rubbed her back. “You sound like it’s the worst thing in the world.”



She rolled over so that she was facing him. “It’s not.” She smiled. “A baby is a wonderful idea. But it’s just not the best time right now.” She rubbed her hand up his arm and tried to not let it show that a baby was the most wonderful thing in the world.



“What do you mean?”



She sat up and paused as her stomach felt like doing another barrel roll. “I’m just saying that with my still recuperating and your still getting your bearings back, this is not the best time.”



He shook his head. “I think this is great. A new symbol for our new start.” He laid his hand on her flat stomach. “I don’t remember the twins being born or being there for them. But I will be for this baby.” He leaned in towards her. “I can’t wait.”



Marlena grinned. “You’ll have to. Your getting all excited over something that I may not be. It could be reactions to the plane crash. It hasn’t been that long Roman.”



Her face suddenly changed again and she shoved him off, sending him into laughter again. “This is going to be a long few months.”



*~*~*~*~*~*



Marlena left only the briefest of messages for Roman to call her after 12. So he decided to surprise her by coming to the hospital to take her to lunch. He found her talking to Alice with a smile on her face.



He came towards them with a smile. “Hey Pretty Lady.” Marlena started to laugh as he kissed Alice. “If I didn’t know the two of you better, I’d be very jealous right now.” Tom came up behind Marlena. “Well you and I could always run away together.” As Tom came and hugged his wife, Roman came to his wife, who shot a glance to Tom. “Meet you at 4?”



Roman hugged her and felt the urge to take her home. “Nope, I’m never letting you go.” She smiled. “That’s good to hear.” Alice asked if they wanted to join them for lunch. Marlena was about to speak when Roman interrupted. “Not today. I want to take this lovely creature to lunch and hear how her checkup went.”



Marlena shook her head. “Take me for a walk on the pier. I don’t think I can handle food right now.”



As they left, Alice smiled to Tom. “This is going to be the best time for them.” Tom nodded. “After all those two have been through. This is just what they need.”



*~*~*~*~*~*



“Ok, we’ve walked around at least four times. What did Tom say?”



Marlena started to laugh. “It’s not THAT bad. I just wanted to see how long it would take before you cracked.”



His smile faded. “I’m serious. How did the check up go?”



Marlena leaned in and kissed him. “It’s fine. Tom figures that for all intents and purposes, my injuries from the crash are all completely healed. But there was something he said that I should let you know about.”



She saw the fear in his eyes and cursed herself for letting him think that. “Honey, you were right. I’m pregnant.”



Till the end of time, she would never forget the joy in his eyes as realization sank in. “We’re having a baby?” She nodded. “We’re really having a baby.”



He swept her off her feet and cheerfully chattered on about how incredible this all was going to be.



She suddenly shivered and a worried feeling swept over her. “Oh God, please don’t do anything to take this joy from him.”



*~*~*~*~*~*



‘WE HAVE TO TELL THEM!”



Shane spun around and glared at the Chief. “Just how bloody arrogant is the ISA? I mean for crying out loud, Roman thinks he’s dead. That the shoot out was the end and it was over. You can’t let them go blindly in to this.”



The Head of the ISA peered up at him and shook his head. “Are you doubting me Shane?”



“He’s nearly lost her three times because of this man.” Templeton shook his head. “I don’t think our involvement counts as one of HIS attempts.” Shane shook his head. “Don’t be so totally blind. Stockholm, the bombing OR the plane crash, it doesn’t matter. What we DO know is that when it comes to Roman and Marlena, he’s playing for keeps and he won’t stop until this is over and Roman suffers as much as he’s EVER done.” Shane slapped the folder on the desk. “And the only way it would be over is when Marlena Brady is lying in a coffin.”



Chief Templeton stood up. “That’s why we need her.”



Shane fought the growing wave of nausea that was threatening to drown him. “You obviously haven’t learnt the lesson Ogden did. Absolute Power corrupts absolutely. Roman’s given all he has to this organization and we’re repaying him by trying to dangle his wife AGAIN as bait to draw Orpheus out.”



Templeton shook his head. “Roman should have remembered the ISA rule. Make sure the body is DEAD before you call the case closed.”



Shane was about to leave when Templeton called his name. “Don’t think of telling Roman to warn him before its time. I really wouldn’t want to have to let the Brady family know of just how you chose wrongly.”



Shane turned around. “I beg your pardon.”



“You’re involved with their daughter. Just imagine what harm would come about by their learning you could have saved them such heartache when they thought Roman had died, but instead you chose to protect the black sheep.”



Shane shut his eyes. “Don’t make me hate the ISA anymore than I do right now.”

Templeton smiled. “I don’t really care if you love us or hate us Shane. I just need you to stay quiet.”



Shane counted to ten. “Forgive me Kimberly.”



*~*~*~*~*~*



“You look angelic.” Marlena made a face and let out an unladylike snort. “I feel foolish.” Roman helped her down the stairs. “Juliet, you are lovely and have stolen my heart.”

He spun her around to look at her costume and tweaked her curls. “I’m just sorry they didn’t have the matching costume for this. Doc, your breathtaking.”



Marlena started to laugh. “I would have paid double the money, just so I could see my superhero Roman Augustus Brady in TIGHTS!” She doubled over. “But with your legs, it would be more like SUPERCHICKEN!” The new peal of laughter caused Roman to roll his eyes. “Doc, it’s not THAT funny.”



She smiled. “Yes, yes it was.” She straightened up. “But I’m under control now.” Her eyes were twinkling as she reached for his sword and handed it to him. “C’mon Zorro. We have to go pick up Mom and Dad at the Salem Inn.”



*~*~*~*~*~*



Marlena was a co-host of the fundraiser along with Tom and Alice. So her hosting duties kept her busy and only able to catch brief glimpses of her parents, who were having a good time and of Roman, who was talking with Abe and Shane and Neil.



Suddenly she was dragged onto the dance floor by a costumed dancer.



She glanced around for some form of a backup and suddenly felt his hand on her chin and was roughly forced to face the man.



At first, she was unable to place where she felt she knew him from, but there was something that was just so icy cold about his eyes. Marlena shook her head as she silently thought. “It CAN’T be…He’s dead. Roman said he killed him.”



Another memory of that time assaulted her and made her wince. “I don’t care if your happy or not, your here as mother to my children. Get to making yourself at home because you will never leave here alive Marlena. I won’t allow it.”



She began to struggle as his arms gripped hers tighter, making her cry out. “Let me GO!”



He shook his head and he slowly smiled, reminding her of a time when she saw a cat torture its prey. “I said let me GO!”



He relaxed his hold on her for a moment, watching as Roman began to make his way to them. Then he suddenly grabbed her again and pulled her to him, kissing her savagely. As he broke away, the light caught his eyes and Marlena let out a scream as it all rushed back to her, threatening to overwhelm and drown her as swiftly and as savagely as the water in the sewer drain should have done him that night.



Marlena turned her head and focused on one man as she summoned her voice and screamed.



“OH GOD…ROMAN HELP ME!”



As Roman heard her cry and rushed to her side, Marlena began to struggle against her captor and with one hand dragged her nails down his cheek, feeling one small gleam of satisfaction just as Roman grabbed her and as he pulled her away, the man disappeared in the crowds, followed by Abe and some security guards.



Marlena spun around and she began to hyperventilate as she began to pound on her husband’s chest. It was feeling as if she was standing in quicksand. Nothing was real anymore.



“You said..You SWORE!”



The sobs coming from her were so bad that she was unable to breathe, scaring everyone. “Marlena?” He called for Tom to help her and Marlena swung her head, stopping them all. “I’m FINE.” Roman shook his head, gently trying to hold her. “No you’re not Marlena, you have to think of the baby.” Marlena shoved at him. “I am. You lied to me Roman. You said he was dead and he’s not and NOTHING is safe anymore.”

Fearing she was in hysterics, Roman asked her what she meant and her answer scared them all.



“You didn’t kill him Roman. He’s alive and he’s come back for me. Orpheus is alive.”

The party had ended, leaving just a few friends in the main room of Blondie’s all in a daze from the news of the evening. Their quiet conversations providing a form of white noise that wrapped itself around Marlena.



Martha tried to fuss over her girl, who was sitting listless with haunted eyes as she watched her husband talking with Abe. The conversations all fell by the wayside as Marlena threw her hands up, breaking the silence with an angry statement of a simple fact.



“I don’t NEED this.” She turned around and faced her husband. “You STILL don’t believe me do you. I know what I saw and yet here you are, your still insisting that you killed him.”



Roman looked up at her with eyes that had seen too much. “What do you want me to say?”



Marlena reached up and yanked at her headdress. “That you were WRONG!” She threw it across the room. “Admit it Brady. Despite telling me that you’d ALWAYS protect me, You screwed up then and you may have screwed it up NOW.”



She gathered up her skirts and ran out of the room.



Roman was about to follow her when Frank shook his head. “I’ll go calm her down.” As he left the room and followed in the direction Marlena went in, Martha spoke to her son-in-law.



“You know she didn’t mean that. She’s just emotional with the pregnancy and now this.”

Roman nodded. “But she’s right. I slipped up before and she was taken from me.” He shook his head. “Martha, how do I fix this?”



*~*~*~*~*~*



“Marlena Elizabeth Evans Brady, I know you are out here.” Frank Evans had searched the grounds of the restaurant and was calling it quits when Roman came out. “Did you find her?” Frank shook his head. “No. She had more of a head start than I thought.”

Roman grimaced and asked Abe, who had just come out to give him a ride home. “Marlena had the keys to the jeep.” Abe nodded. “Let’s go.”



Shane went to the bar and asked for a drink. Worried, Kimberly came towards him. “What is it?” Shane swallowed the drink in a gulp. “We have to go to Roman and Marlena’s.” Not liking the look in his eyes, Kim nodded. “Ok, let’s go.”



*~*~*~*~*~*



The lights were off when Roman and Abe came in, followed by Frank and Martha. “Doc!” Roman started calling for her, each time his cry becoming more worried. “Marlena?” Martha said she’d check upstairs.



“I don’t like this.” Frank said he would go check in the backyard. Roman waited until his father in law left. “Abe, what do I do to fix this?”



Before he could speak, Martha’s worried voice called down to him. “Roman?” He turned to find Martha coming at him with her hands full of Marlena’s costume.



*~*~*~*~*~*



Shane and Kim arrived to find the Brady house in an uproar. Watching silently as Roman and Abe threw together search teams, Shane asked Roman to come over to talk with him.



“Sure, what can I do for you?” Shane’s eyes caught on a new photo of Marlena that Roman had taken as she was reading a story to Eric and Sami. “I don’t know how to say this any way but straight out.”



Roman nodded. “Ok. What is it?” Shane looked at Kim and took a deep breath.



“I had a meeting earlier today with Templeton. He had some things that he felt I needed to know about. Some things which I was not ready for and yet, he didn’t care. He didn’t care that it could hurt people. People who have already been hurt.”



Shane lifted his eyes. “Orpheus is alive Roman. The I.S.A wanted to re-use Marlena as the bait.”



Roman shook his head. “What did you just say?”



Shane came right out with all of it. That in order to protect his brother just a few years back, he had left Roman on the beach. “I chose wrongly as he turned against us all. But Templeton used that to try and buy my silence on this. He felt that Marlena was just what he needed to draw Orpheus back.”



Roman ran his hand through his hair, looking blindly around the room. Ignoring what Shane had just told him about the choice that he had made in order to focus on Marlena. “She’s out there alone, We have to find her.”



Marlena stood in the doorway with Alice, who spoke. “She’s been with me.”



*~*~*~*~*~*



Marlena came and sat on the couch. “Are you alright?” Marlena lifted her eyes and shrugged. “Do you care? Funny, you certainly didn’t seem this worried when I told you the truth at the restaurant.”



Roman grimaced. “Doc.” She shrugged. “Save it. I’m tired and going upstairs to check on the twins.” As she walked past the fireplace, she paused.



“Marlena?”



As she turned towards a worried Kimberly, Marlena picked up a wedding photo and as she ran her hand over the cool glass, she leaned her head to one side and put it back. In a soft questioning voice, she had to ask a question. “Did you ever find out Abe, just how it was that the bomb blew up the house before?” He shook his head.



She picked up the photo cube. “Harmless isn’t it. But when packed with enough explosives.” Her eyes shimmered with tears. “He told me once, when I was being as he put it, particularly unruly. How he managed to get past the guards on the house and duplicated the photos and then returned to plant HIS cube in the place of ours.”



She turned around. “I was told once that he was the best, he could come and go out of places he couldn’t be expected to come and go out of.” She searched the room for Roman and walked towards him. “I was told THAT by someone who I knew to be the best. The only man I have EVER trusted. His partner and the man I love. Now I don’t know what to believe.”



She was about to go up, when Roman’s hand took hers. “Doc, I’m sorry.”



Blue eyes searched Hazel ones and she began to cry. Wordlessly, he pulled her to him and rested his cheek on the top of her head. “It will be alright.”



Marlena shook her head. “It can’t be. He won’t let it.”



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



It was bright and early the next morning when Frank, Martha and Roman appeared downstairs. “Doc?” Martha sshed him and pointed towards the breakfast nook. Marlena was sleeping at the table with a notepad and a pen in the one hand that was not curled under her cheek.



Worried, Roman came around and laid his hand on her shoulder. “Marlena?” He looked down and read what she had on the paper.



“My precious baby,

I never meant to bring you into this. I wanted only happiness for you and your brother and sisters, and of course your daddy. Sometimes since the plane crash when I’m up prowling the house at an ungodly hour, I begin to wonder if it wouldn’t have been better if I died.

But then I feel the love that has come back to me since the plane crash and I know it wasn’t better. The only way it could have turned out was how it did. If I had of died, I wouldn’t have gotten to re-know Carrie’s sense of humor, your daddy’s smile as he wakes in the morning, Eric’s laughter and Sami’s hugs.

And above all, I wouldn’t have had you.

You aren’t here with us yet physically but spiritually you have brought great joy to our lives. To your daddy, you’re his chance to be here as he wasn’t for the twins and Carrie. To both sets of Grandparents, you’re the newest reason to dote and spoil a little person rotten and to me; well let me say simply that you’re the best symbol of my second chance.

My second chance at being alive. For which I am truly grateful. My second chance with your daddy (To be very honest little one, it’s more like a THIRD chance, but between you and I, who’s counting) and just simply, you are a miracle.

I love you more with each passing day and I cannot wait to have you here in my arms.

I love you always, forever.

Momma.”



Roman’s eyes filled with tears as he carefully replaced the letter. “I never knew. I tried to talk to her, but she wouldn’t open up.” Martha laid her hand on his shoulder. “Sometimes, Marlena feels it’s best to keep everything inside. For fear of having all of us who love her think that she’s let us down.”



He shook his head. “But she hasn’t. Martha, I’m just so thrilled to have her home.” His mother in law smiled. “I know that and she does too. But she’s just gone through some major emotional stress and she needs the time to get over it. The pregnancy was a saving grace in that she could have this precious time to heal and be with her family. But now, she’s going to have to bring out the fighting spirit again.”





Roman’s face contorted in rage. “I’ll kill him this time.”



Marlena’s voice rang out as clear as a bell. “No you won’t. He won’t let you.” She sealed the letter and put it in the little table just off the dining room.



Frank wrapped his arms around his daughter and gently pressed his lips to her cheek. “Orpheus has always played for keeps. You and I both know that. This time, you and I will fight him together.”



Roman stared at this lady of his with the determination shining in her hazel eyes and wondered just how he could have lived without her.



“We beat him in Stockholm for that short period of time and we’ll beat him now.”



Marlena checked her watch. “I have to go. I didn’t realize it was that late.” Roman shook his head. “Where do you have to go?” She grinned. “I have to take my precious car to the mechanic’s.” Roman suddenly jumped up.



“How about I take the car to the shop and YOU take my jeep.” Marlena made a face. “I hate driving the Jeep.” With a laugh, Roman took her hands and pulled her on his lap. “What did you drive home last night?”



She rested her head against his for a moment and then broke out into a grin. “You’re right.” Marlena looked at her parents. “Other than that, I have nothing planned for today. So how about you two and I plus the twins go out and spend the day together?”



The phone rang just before Martha could answer. Marlena reached around Roman, swatting at his hands and started laughing. “Let me get that!”



She jumped off his lap and reached for the notepad. “Ok, I’ll be there in 20 minutes. I just have to get dressed. Ok, thanks Hillary.”



She shook her head. “I’m sorry, we’ll have to postpone this outing until this afternoon.” Martha grinned. “The joys of being the mother of a practising psychiatrist.” Marlena grimaced. “I shouldn’t be THAT long. It’s just I have to check in on an old patient of mine. I should be back in 2 hours tops.”



Frank grinned and hugged his wife. “You go on Marly, We’ll hang out with Eric and Samantha. Or if it’s easier, we can meet you someplace later on? Just give us a call here when you’re ready.”



Marlena chuckled. “Ok. I’ll do that.” Roman stood up. “Ok that’s settled. Doc, where’s the car keys?” Marlena pointed to the little container by the door. “Ok, I’m out of here. I’ll call you later Doc. Frank, you and the ladies have a great day. Try NOT to spoil the twins TOO much.”



She smiled. “Commander?” Roman turned. “Yeah Doc, I’ll have a great day.” Marlena shut one eye. “That AINT it.” She came and ran her hand over his chest. “What do you normally do that you’ve forgotten to do?”



As he ran through his mental list, a sudden realization sent a smile across his face. “Do you really think I’d forget to do this?” He pulled her to him and gently grazed her lips with his. “I love you Doc.”



*~*~*~*~*~*



Marlena was walking back towards the Jeep when Maggie called out to her. “Hey Maggie.” As the two women happily stood just off the entrance chattering away, they didn’t see the car coming into the parking lot.



“So you’re done for today?” Marlena nodded. “Yep, only had one appointment and now I’m off to spend the day with Mom, Dad and the twins.” Maggie smiled. “I’m so glad to see you’re trying to have some peace despite the other night.”



Marlena nodded. “I can’t hide and I won’t allow the children to be tainted by this.” She checked her watch. “I have to go. Dad’s probably spent way too much on them as it is.” Maggie laughed. “And just think, they’ll be here in Salem all the time.”



Marlena chuckled. “Thanks Maggie. Talk to you soon.”



She had just turned to step off the curb when the car came roaring at her.



*~*~*~*~*~*



“Maggie, where is she?” Maggie looked up from the nurse’s station and intercepted him. “Roman, she’s being examined by Tom and Dr. Bader.” Roman shook his head. “Dr. Bader, that’s Marlena’s OB-GYN. what’s wrong with the baby?”



Maggie shook her head. “Roman, calm down. Dr. Bader was called just as a precaution.”



“A precaution I’m glad to see was just that.” Dr Bader smiled. “Hi Roman.” He nodded, searching her eyes for any hidden meaning. “So Marlena and the baby ARE alright?” She nodded. “The baby is fine. Marlena will have to take it easy a couple of days. I said for her to stay in bed for two days. But Marlena’s wrist however.” Marlena came out of the examination room with Tom. “My wrist is sprained.”



As Roman came to her, Marlena smiled. “We’re fine.” He pressed his lips against the side of her cheek. “That makes me feel a WHOLE lot better.” Marlena patted his cheek. “You’re such a lousy liar Roman.”



As everyone laughed, Tom repeated to Marlena what they wanted her to do. “Yes, I know. REST.” Roman hugged her, careful not to hug too tight. “Foreign concept to the lady.” Marlena shook her head. “He’s such a good guesser.”



*~*~*~*~*~*



“Ok, so what am I going to do for the next couple of days bedrest?” Marlena finished dressing in her pajamas and came out to Roman, who was fiddling with the blankets for her. “I got you a bunch of books and some crossword puzzles.” Marlena wrapped her arm around his neck. “But I don’t WANT any crossword puzzles.”



Roman smiled, enjoying this silly side of his wife. “Well then what DO you want?”

She lightly nibbled on his earlobe. “I want to spend the rest of today with YOU.” He smiled. “Sounds like a pretty nice plan to me. But I can’t.” Marlena’s eyes sparkled. “Why not?” He disentangled himself from her. “Well because of the simple fact that I’ve promised Eric and Sami that Daddy would take them to the park since Mommy’s sick.”

He grinned. “So go lie down and we’ll be home as soon as possible.” Marlena rolled her eyes. “Doc, please.”



She climbed into bed and winced as her wrist hit the night table. “Bye Roman.”

She was asleep the moment her head hit the pillow. “If I had lost you again.” He paused and watched her sleep for a second before shutting the lights. “I love you so much Marlena.”



*~*~*~*~*~*



“So they know I survived the shooting.” Orpheus turned around. “Yes, one of our sources informed me that Donovan told Roman everything.” He smiled. “I could always count on Shane to do the right thing.”



Templeton finished writing on a file. “So what’s the next move.”



Orpheus drained his glass and languidly uncrossed his legs before standing up to refill his glass. “Well, Roman knows that I’m back and he’ll obviously take steps to protect Marlena.” He grinned as he poured the Glenfiddich whisky into his glass. “Especially now that there’s three new situations that have developed.”



Templeton shook his head. “I don’t understand.”



Orpheus smiled. “No, no you wouldn’t. But I’ll tell you. The first involves Marlena. She’s pregnant and we all know that pregnancy can make a woman far more vulnerable, especially one who’s just been through a whole LOT of turmoil. Second is that we have a new player in our midst, one whom I am not ready to reveal.” He turned to face his friend. “Yet.”



Templeton nodded. “Can he be trusted?”



Orpheus studied his drink. “As far as any man can be. Which brings us to the third situation.” He placed the glass on the table and raised an eyebrow. “YOU.”



“ME?” Orpheus nodded. “I know and have always known that your loyalty lies with Shane and also with Roman to some extent. However, sometimes it’s best to start off a new reign with a clean slate.” He pulled out the gun, and shot the new ISA Chief.



*~*~*~*~*~*



Roman had just come back downstairs to grab a beer when the phone rang.

“Hello?” there was silence. “Hello?”



Marlena groggily woke up at the ringing of the phone and picked up, hearing Roman angrily say. “Is there anyone there?”



Suddenly, a very haunting piece of music came over the phone.



Roman was just hanging up when he heard Marlena screaming, dropping the phone he flew up the stairs two at a time..



He ran in the room and found a bewildered Marlena, tears streaming down her face. “Marlena?” She started to shake. “I don’t know what’s happening to me, Roman help me.”



As he climbed on the bed and gathered her in his arms, Roman asked her what she meant. “That music, it was a warning. He’s too close.” He pressed his lips to her head and listened to her repeating that it was a warning. “Warning for what?”



She lifted her head, a look of pain crossing over her delicate features. “I…I don’t know.” She slumped back against him and began to cry again. “Why can’t I remember?”

Worried, Roman was at a loss for words when the phone rang. “Sssh.”



“Roman, it’s Abe, Shane’s just called me and we’re sending additional guards to the house.” Roman glanced at the top of her head. “What for?”



“Templeton’s dead.”

“I said NO.” Marlena turned around and shook her head at the three men watching her. “I’m not going to stay mollycoddled in wool to keep you happy.” Abe was about to say something when Frank interrupted. “Marley mine.”



She shook her head and smiled at her father. “Daddy I know and I do understand the danger here, I think better than the three of you do. But I tried to do things once before the way Roman and Shane and The ISA had recommended, and I lost so much time. I won’t give up my life. I do that, and he’s won.”



She grabbed her jacket and her purse. “Doc.” She turned and looked at her husband. “I will agree to a guard.” She smiled. “Or two. But Roman, I won’t be made a prisoner.” He came and pulled her to him. “Ok.”



She prettily pouted. “That was too easy.”



*~*~*~*~*~*



“So your sure on this.” He looked up at his detective. “She’s it.” The man nodded and gestured at the photo. “Based on what little information that you had given me to go by, this is the lady you’re looking for.”



He paused, unsure as if to tell him all of it. “Sir, there had been two. Her twin sister was murdered a few years ago.”



The older man looked up and felt a pain rip through his heart. “There were two?” His voice was a mere rasp as he asked the detective where the young woman was. “She lives in a town called Salem. She’s now the head of the Psychiatry Department of one of their local hospitals.”



He nodded, turning his attentions to the photograph with a smile. “What a charming package of beauty and brains.”



The detective smiled. “Is there anything else that I can do for you sir?”



Leopold Alamain smiled. “You’re still waiting on information are you not?” The detective nodded. “Let me know what you’ve uncovered and that will be more than enough.” He waved his hand. “Thank you Kevin.”



Once he was alone, the old man got up from his chair and walked through the French doors to the garden. Looking out over the sea, he smiled a confident grin and looked up to the sky as he said to the mental vision that had haunted him for years.



“You hidden them well. But now it will be MY time.”



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



“Hello there!” Marlena and Roman turned around to find Martha coming towards them. “Well hello you.” Roman positively beamed at his mother in law. “I thought I had seen you as I was walking.”



Marlena looked around. “Where’s Dad?” Martha smiled. “He’s in getting our movie tickets.” She paused and looked at their shopping bags. “I take it this was a successful outing.” Marlena nodded and smiled. “Well I was going through some of the twins baby things, and they’ve seen better days. So we decided to pick up a few things and.” Roman clamped his hand over his laughing wife’s mouth. “A few things? No, correct that.”



He took his eyes off his wife to address his mother in law. “Martha she went and bought A LOT of things.” He removed his hand and kissed Marlena, who shrugged her shoulders. “So I can’t help it. Start with a few baby things and BAM you have a whole new baby wardrobe.”



“Have you decided on a nursery yet?” Marlena nodded. “Roman has. But we’re not doing a baseball motif. Ask him what he wants to NAME our baby, Mother.”

Roman was suddenly faced with two sets of Evans eyes. “I don’t see what’s wrong with naming a child Babe Ruth.”



Martha shook her head. “Oh good grief, you’re as bad as Frank.”



That struck Marlena as hilarious and she began to laugh. “I knew that I was destined to marry a man just like dear old Dad.”



Suddenly she froze as she heard the band playing in the courtyard. “Marlena?” She felt Roman lay a protective hand on her arm. “That song.”



Roman listened. “What about it?”



She began to cry. “Roman, it’s that song again.”



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



“Are you sure it was the same song?” Marlena nodded and looked around the room. “I can’t mistake something like that.” She put her purse and the bags down. “Roman, I had such a response to it.” She went and sat on the couch. “But I just don’t know WHY I did.”



She shook her head and studied her husband. “Roman, why is this happening to us now. Why can’t we just be happy with each other, our babies.” She put her hand on her stomach. “THIS baby?”



He pulled her to him and gently pressed his lips to her cool skin. “I don’t know.” They sat in companionable silence until they heard Samantha let out a scream and began to cry for her mommy.



“I thought her nightmares had stopped now that you were home with us Doc.” Marlena sat up. “I guess we’re wrong.”



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



Roman came upstairs and paused just outside his daughter’s door. He leaned against the wall and smiled to himself as he heard Marlena’s soft soprano.



“Rock-a-bye Sami, sent from above, God‚s little angel, Mom‚s little love, now that your with me, life is so sweet, since God‚s dearest angel made it complete!”



It never failed. When their daughter was upset, it was Marlena who chased her demons and sang her sweetly back to sleep with “their” special lullaby.



“Mommy?” Roman jumped at Sami’s soft calling. “Tell me a story?”



Marlena smiled. “Once upon a time, there was a tiny Princess who lived on an island that was known as the Lost Kingdom of Rainbows. She was loved and adored by everyone who laid eyes on her pretty face.” As she spun her tale, Roman was lured into the story by the spell that Marlena was weaving.



“Sadly, one day the baby Princess was taken away from the Kingdom by a bad man and from that day on, the Kingdom of Rainbows was no more.” Sami looked up at her mother. “So what then?” Marlena nuzzled her daughter’s cheek. “They say that someday, the Princess will return to them and restore everything to how it was. All the beauty and magic and the joy will come back to the Kingdom and they’ll live happily ever after. Safe in the security of the Princess with the magic smile.”



“I luv you Mommy.” Marlena cuddled her daughter close. “I love you too Angel girl.”



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



“You seemed awfully engrossed in that story.” Marlena turned around and smiled as Roman came and wrapped his arms around her. “I did?” He nodded and gently layered kisses on her lips. “You did. Was it a childhood favorite?”



Marlena paused and thought that over. “Mom told Samantha and I that story and it was the first that came into my head tonight.”



Roman smiled. “Well it was lovely.” Marlena nodded. “Sam and I thought so.” She became lost in thoughts for a moment. “Momma always seemed so sad when she told it to us.”



The phone rang and Roman went to answer it.



“Oh Doctor Horton, hello. Sure, I’m free to coach on Saturday.” Shaking her head in amusement, Marlena went downstairs to get a drink of juice.



“The little Princess of Rainbows.” She chuckled to herself as she came into the living room, pausing only to pick up her shopping bags. Placing them in the alcove, she turned and saw Roman coming down stairs.



“You’re following me.” The look in his eyes was grave. “We have to go to the hospital.” Marlena shook her head. “You lost me.”



“When I was talking to Tom, they were bringing in some victims of a car wreck. Honey, it was your Mom and Dad.”



She began to shake. “How bad?” She looked around. “The kids are with Kimberly and Shane. Roman, I want to go to the hospital.” Roman nodded. “I’ve already told Tom we were on our way.”



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



“Marlena, honey. Please come and sit down.” Caroline came over and rubbed her daughter-in-law’s back. “You’ve been standing here for hours.” She turned her head. “I’m fine, really.” She turned her attention to the rain-streaked window.



Feeling useless, Caroline saw Maggie coming towards her. “Maggie, please see if Marlena will eat or drink anything.” Maggie’s voice dropped to a whisper. “Do we have any word yet on their conditions?”



Caroline shook her head. “I’m going down to Chapel. Roman and Shawn are there right now.” Maggie nodded. “I’ll have someone come to get you if there’s any change.”



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



“Leopold, I’d like to introduce you finally to my daughter and son in law.” Doug’s face shone. “Hope and Bo, I’d like to introduce you to my business partner, Leopold Alamain.”



The older fellow stood up and shook their hands. “I’ve heard so much about the two of you and your little boy from Doug that I feel as if I’ve known you all your lives.”



Hope took a sleepy Shawn-Douglas from Bo. “It’s nice to meet you as well.”



Leopold gestured for them to sit down and join them. “So how long are you going to be in Alamainia?” Bo glanced to Hope. “Well long enough for Hope to visit with Doug and to have some minor repairs done on our boat.”



He smiled. “That’s wonderful. You’ll have to do some sight seeing while your here. Not for nothing is Alamainia known the world over as the Kingdom of Rainbows.”

Hope smiled. “That sounds lovely.” Doug nodded. “Leopold’s family has ruled here for over 300 years.” Leopold cracked a joke. “And I don’t look a day over 12.” As they laughed, Doug asked his daughter for news of home.



“Well there’s nothing really new to report.” Bo interrupted. “Shawn-D’s going to have a playmate in a few months. Roman and Marlena are expecting a baby around Christmas.”



Leopold took everything in with a practiced cool eye. “A child is a wonderful gift. May your brother, his wife and their new baby have every happiness Mr. Brady.”



Bo stroked his son’s cheek. “They deserve it. Marlena especially. After everything she’s been through these past few months, this baby is something for her to look forward to.”



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



“Oh Tom, No.” Marlena turned and buried her face into Roman’s shirtfront. As he rubbed her back, Roman asked about Martha. “She’s stable. Her injuries weren’t as severe as Frank’s.”



Marlena pulled away from Roman and shakily asked if she could see Martha. “She’s just come up to ICU, Marlena you wouldn’t be able to.” She cut him off. “I don’t care. I just need to see My Mom. Please Tom.”



He nodded. “Just a few minutes.” She nodded. “That’s fine. I just need to see her.”



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



“Hi Momma, it’s me.” Marlena carefully settled into a chair. “I can’t stay very long, you need to rest and regain your strength. But I just wanted to let you know that I’ll be here for you, always. I love you and I still need you here. Sami and Eric are just getting to really know you and in a few months, this baby will too.”



“You look so small lying here. Nothing like the dynamo that ruled my life for the longest time.”



She laid her chin on her hand and she studied her



“When the baby Princess finally comes home to the lost kingdom of rainbows, everything that was ruined will be put right. Every heart that had been hurt will mend and love will once again rule over the tiny lost kingdom of rainbows.”

She stood up and gently pressed her lips to her mom’s bandaged head. “Don’t leave me Momma.”



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

She came out and found Roman waiting for her. “What is it?” He just pulled her to him. “Roman, you’re scaring me.” He gently pressed his lips to her cheek. “I just wanted to hold you. This whole thing with your Parents.” He shook his head.



Marlena’s eyes widened. “You’re remembering the bombing.” He nodded. “I know I’ve got you back, but.” She laid a hand on his cheek. “But with him running around somewhere out there and this whole mess with Templeton.” He nodded. “Its making me realize that just how much I love you and just how truly important you are to me.”

She hugged him. “So keep that in your mind and we’ll do fine.”



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



She and Roman had come back down the hall and again found Tom waiting for them, along with Neil, who had been operating on Frank.



“How is He?” Neil searched his friends eyes, and found that she was steadier now than when she had went in to see Martha. “I won’t lie to you, it’s still up in the air. But the next 18-24 hours will tell the tale.”



Marlena began to cry. “He’s alive.” She dried her eyes. “Thank you Neil.”



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



“So how careless were you?” Orpheus turned around and listened to the operative he hired to deal with the Evans’s. “I told you the accident was to leave neither one alive.”

He hung up and thought for a moment as he studied a photo of Marlena with his children. “Maybe it was best their both alive. Handled right, this could prove to be quite the diversion for our fair Marlena.”