What If – By RighteousQuery

Chapter One – A New Beginning

Marlena sat in front of the roaring fire trying to distract herself with one of New York Times bestsellers. Although she’d read the prologue a half a dozen times, she was confident that in the right headspace, it would be a phenomenal read, just not now. No book was engaging enough to distract her from the wonderful chaos brewing in her life.

The flickering of the television grabbed her attention. She reached for the remote and turned up the volume as she walked over to the large window to gaze at the new landscape.

“We expect a record 2 feet of snow and high winds in Washington tonight so bundle up,” said the spunky meteorologist. “If you need to be somewhere and you aren’t there now, you may be waiting it out.”

Marlena looked deeply into the night hoping to find some form of resolution to the storm growing in her personal life very similar to what was happening outside. “How did I let this get this far?” Marlena asked herself. She closed her eyes tightly and recalled the last tumultuous 8 months.

She was with Roman and happy. The twins were thriving. Her practice was busy. Life was good. Then it all came to a halt after she was kidnapped by Stella Lombard. In a flash she saw her idyllic life unravel before her very eyes. Not only did she think she was going to die, she thought she was going to die in the arms of John Black.

They were rescued, but during their captivity they professed the feelings they once shared. Feelings that never went away. Feelings in a moment of weakness that were later acted upon. Guilt-ridden with her acts of infidelity, Marlena tried her hardest to put John Black and their poor judgment behind her. She tried to resist getting lost in his eyes when they were around each other. She tried to forget, but it was impossible.

“We promised to never be alone,” Marlena whispered to John after a Titan meeting. “We can talk about our feelings, but we can’t act on them.”

Marlena snapped back to the present when she heard the front door close in the distance. She continued to look out of the window as the snow began to pick up. A smile covered her face and she bundled up in her bathrobe and continued to remember.

“Doc, we can’t unring the bell. We love each other. We need to be together,” said John. Marlena could recall the feeling of John’s hand on her shoulder as she turned her back to him, avoiding the look of love in his eyes. 

“John, I love Roman. Please don’t do this to me. It’s killing me,” she pleaded. She could feel the warmth of John’s body from just a few feet away. It took everything she had to maintain composure. Tears began to fall down her cheek. She knew she needed to leave the room, or this conversation would go from bad to worse. She tried to move, but she was completely immobilized with fear. Just as she braced herself for John’s next move, Roman entered.

Flooded with concern, Roman raced to hold Marlena, “Doc, what happened? John, why is my wife crying?” Flustered and trying to compose themselves, Marlena took the lead. “I’m just having a rough day. What are you doing here? Did I miss a lunch date?” “Not at all,” said Roman. “I just realized that I have been on assignment for the last month and haven’t had a date with my lovely wife.”

Roman had been away on an ISA mission which had been a blessing and a curse. It gave Marlena time to defuse her affair with John and time to adjust their feelings; and yet they were still constantly around each other. With Roman back, it would be easier to pull away.

“Doc, I hope you feel better,” said John as he gathered his belongings. “If you aren’t up for the next meeting, I can pitch that new idea to Victor.” Without taking her eyes off Roman, Marlena replied, “Thanks John. I’ll be ok.”

Roman and Marlena left the Titan office that day having dodged a bullet. Marlena knew more than ever that she had to create additional boundaries between her and John or Roman would sense something.

Breaking her trance of reminiscing once more, Marlena heard more rustling in the distance.

“I hope you didn’t forget my hoisin sauce,” she yelled. “If you did, I’d leave my coat on if I were you.” Suddenly all the tension and fear lifted as she felt a warm and strong embrace from behind. An involuntary smile graced her lips. She could then feel the familiar and intoxicatingly warm breath just behind her ear. “You drive me wild; you know that? I have been standing here for ages, thinking. Worrying. How are we going to fix this mess?” Marlena began. “How are we going to…”

Her words were halted by subtle kisses on her neck. She closed her eyes to take it all in. She then felt these familiar arms travel to her waist to caress her swollen belly. The sheer touch stirred a feeling that Marlena could never adequately express. It was a feeling of unbridled passion that could not be suppressed. A packet of hoisin sauce was waived in front of her. “You remembered!” she rejoiced. Marlena finally turned from the window to look into the eyes of her husband, John Black.

“How are my girls?” asked John as he kissed Marlena’s stomach. “Hungry,” she replied. “Ravenous actually. I can’t seem to stop eating.” John led Marlena across the room to a small table for two. Everything was already set, even a small bouquet of lilacs.

Completely taken, Marlena’s eyes welled up with tears. John immediately jumped to her attention, “Hey, hey, hey…,” he said soothingly, “It’s just stir-fry baby. Why are you crying?”

The lump in her throat prevented her from responding. Laughing it off, she felt silly and yet she knew why she was emotional. So much had happened in such a short amount of time. She was still processing it all.

“Marlena…explain to me how this ultrasound says 6 weeks and I have only been home for 3!” yelled Roman. Marlena sat on the edge of their bed silent. She had so much to say and yet nothing could part her lips. She could feel Roman’s eyes searing through her flesh with anger and disdain. It was the longest moment of her life. Even though she could hear Roman shouting from across the room, the sounds of her pulse racing began to drown him out. There was nothing left to hide. Clearly there was someone else. “Whose bed have you been in, Marlena? I want to know damn it and I want to know now!” screamed Roman.

Marlena’s affair with John would have been easy to put behind them except for one small detail, the first time they made love, she had gotten pregnant. There was never a question whose child she was carrying. She hadn’t slept with Roman in weeks and when he saw the date on an ultrasound that a nurse had innocently given him a copy of, the story began to unravel.

John began to chow down as he chose his words carefully. “Your food ok honey?” he asked. Barely coming up for air, Marlena savored every bite. “I am in heaven. How did you find this place? We’ve only been here for a few weeks,” she asked. 

 “Yelp,” replied John. “I also have a surprise for you.” As if this meal wasn’t enough, Marlena couldn’t fathom what else he had in store. John left the room for a second and returned with a pastry box and a smile.

Marlena’s entire face lit up with excitement. “What have you done Mr. Black? Don’t tell me…” John opened the box allowing Marlena to peer inside. While she expected an éclair, her heart skipped a beat when she saw the contents. “Fresh strawberries and whipped cream. I just love you so,” she whispered.

If nothing else, John Black had the answer to every question that her soul could ever ask. He knew how to make her heart smile even during the darkest of times. “I know how hard all of this has been on you, but I promise that this will all work out. You have to trust me,” said John. 

“Oh, I do trust you,” replied Marlena without hesitation. “You have been so wonderful and patient.” She looked around the room with gratitude. “When Roman and the kids turned on me, you immediately got me out of Salem. You found this beautiful house, furnished with a live-in midwife and baby nurse. You have helped with the divorce. You married me. You even arranged speaking engagements for me at the University.” “There’s still a teaching position if you want it,” added John.

Marlena was torn. Salem was her home and yet she knew home didn’t want her anymore. Once Marlena realized she was fighting a losing battle with Roman and Sami, there was nothing left to do. Being pregnant and going through a contentious divorce and being hated simultaneously by her children was more than she could bare. 

 The moment Marlena’s doctor classified her pregnancy as high-risk, John fired up the Alamain jet and whisked her away. She put up a valiant fight, but in the end, she knew she couldn’t jeopardize the health of her unborn child while trying to repair the damage done with Sami and Carrie. She knew Carrie and Eric would come around, but Sami was so angry. The sight of her growing belly only seemed to make it worse.

“I don’t want to think about work. I just want you to hold me,” said Marlena. John took her into his arms and caressed her lovingly kissing her forehead. “You got it Mrs. Black!”

Marlena sat between John’s legs in front of the roaring fire while they fed each other strawberries and whipped cream. The plate cleverly balanced on her bulging belly. Just like every time, it was sensual and methodic. Every dip and every nibble were ceremonial like the first time. 

“It’s the little things,” Marlena mumbled. “What’s that honey?” asked John. Marlena moved the plate from her stomach with the intention to straddle him. They chuckled as she struggled to maneuver. “Hold on, I can do it,” said Marlena as she managed to sit face to face. Completely out of breath, “I was thinking out loud. I was saying it’s the little things you do that make me feel so special. Safe.”

They stared at each other for at least 30 seconds without saying a word. John and Marlena had the ability to communicate with their eyes. It was a connection many will never have in a lifetime. An inexplicable energy that transcends space and time. Like all forces of nature, their synergy could not be stopped. John gently held Marlena’s face and began to passionately kiss her lips.

Despite what she’d sacrificed to be in this moment, Marlena was happy to no longer hide her true feelings. She could allow John to explore her body and unapologetically climax at just the thought of his touch. As John began to caress her breasts, Marlena began to tremble. “Are you cold?” John asked. “Not at all. Just kissing you makes me orgasm,” she murmured.

Straddling John, Marlena was able to take advantage of her position and seduce him with ease. It took little effort for his manhood to find its way to her moistened path. This pregnancy had sent her libido into overdrive and she couldn’t get enough. Any position that she was capable of achieving, she was willing to do. While this frightened John, it also turned him on. “Are we being too rough? Are you ok?” asked John. Looking deep into his eyes while approaching a major climax, “I’m fine. Don’t worry. It’s ok,” Marlena whispered. “I’m trying to wait for you but…”

John followed Marlena’s lead with reckless abandon. His hands explored her body as she was completely caught up in the rapture of this tantric interlude. Refusing to allow her expanding midsection to hinder her mission to achieve multiple orgasms, Marlena began to ride John with aggression. It was almost like the first time they’d reconnected on the airplane 8 months ago. “Doc, you feel so good,” said John. “Don’t stop.” Marlena had no intention of stopping. Her hormones were raging, and she refused to ignore her cravings. It wasn’t long before her body reacted with tremendous release. “JOHN!” she screamed.

John tried to slow her down, but Marlena refused. “Don’t you dare stop,” she commanded. “I need you more than ever,” she whispered. John then gently laid her on her back and took control of round two. He found the perfect angle by lifting her right leg before vigorously plunging into her pulsating walls. John clearly had a GPS in the tip of his manhood because without fail, he could immediately locate Marlena’s G-Spot.

Marlena laid on her back slightly turned to an angle facing the fire. The flickering flame illuminated her passion filled face as she allowed John to ravage her starving loins. Like careless teenagers, their glistening bodies slammed into one another with force and determination. It was as if every thrust was a way to push all of the stress away.

John felt his peak quickly approaching so he knew he had a short window to bring Mrs. Black home. He lifted Marlena’s other leg, gently supporting her ankles and took a deep plunge. He held it while applying just enough pressure to ring Marlena’s bell.

John knew exactly when to strike. He had an insatiable knack for knowing just when to make Marlena’s body obey his command. Their lovemaking was always like a perfect storm. It would always start with soft flirtatious kisses and slowly progress into an organically synchronized tango. Every movement was deliberate and precise. The tension would build and explode into a beautiful crescendo. Their love was a form of living art.

John was mesmerized by the uncontrollable quivers of Marlena’s body. The sound of her muffled cries of passion turned him on even more. “Let it go Doc. Don’t hold back anymore. We made it,” he said. It was almost as if Marlena had waited all this time for permission to be happy. For permission to love John and not apologize anymore. Somehow those few words released a floodgate of emotion and Marlena belted an uncontrollable scream of satisfaction. John soon followed.

“It wasn’t long, but it was certainly intense,” said Marlena as she collapsed in John’s arms. “I don’t know what’s gotten into me.” “What do you mean?” asked John.

“Meaning I’ll be ready for round 2 in a minute,” replied Marlena. John looked shocked but up for the challenge.

“I have a confession to make,” began John. “That night on the plane, I knew the moment you got pregnant. It was like I could feel it the moment it happened.” Marlena wrinkled her nose and gave it thought. “Isn’t the point to feel it, the moment ‘it’ happens?” she teased. John kissed her nose, “You know what I mean!” Marlena did know what he meant because she felt it too. “I knew we’d conceived the moment I walked off that plane. That’s why I was so afraid,” she confessed. “I knew then we had crossed a point of no return.”

Like every other time, John didn’t disappoint. Before long, Marlena was fast asleep in his arms. If only he could help keep her mind from wandering. The pregnancy had made her dreams so vivid lately. They were almost real. Just last week, she startled John and the midwife as she screamed in her sleep. It was always the same dream, her begging for forgiveness and being able to coexist in Salem with Roman and the kids despite the divorce.

“Why are you here? Why can’t you just leave us alone!” screamed Sami. “You destroyed our family! Look what you did to daddy. I hate you. I hate John Black. And I hate that baby!” It was the same vitriol every time Marlena tried to even reason with Samantha. The pain of her words cut deep every time. Even the great Dr. Marlena Evans was incapable of repairing this overnight.

“Sami, you don’t mean that. You are just angry, and I know in time…” started Marlena. “You are damn right I am angry. How could you cheat on daddy and then lay beside him at night? He’s your husband. He would have done anything for you. Anything!” screamed Sami. “And now, you want to flaunt your dastardly deeds around town,” pointing to Marlena’s baby bump. “I used to look up to you. To think I wanted to be like you,” scoffed Sami.

Marlena stood before her angry and disrespectful daughter. Suppressing the urge to slap her across the face as it would only exacerbate an already volatile situation. As hard as she tried to approach the situation as a therapist, she could not remove the emotion from it. 

She conceded to allowing Sami to express herself and feel all the ranges of emotions to get her through this angry phase. Marlena prayed that it was a phase. To hear the disdain and contempt in her daughter’s voice, against an unborn baby was hard for Marlena to stomach. Like the conversations before, Sami left in a fury leaving Marlena crestfallen and remorseful.

Marlena tried to compose herself. She had already been warned to avoid stressful situations and this didn’t help matters in the least. While trying to breathe and calm down, she began to feel sharp cramping. Flustered and unsure what to do next, Marlena reached for her phone only to be stopped once again by sharp pains.

Marlena’s reaction to her dream was visceral. She began to grab her stomach and moan. She opened her eyes and realized it was another nightmare and tried to collect herself without waking John. She rubbed her stomach and exhaled deeply before adjusting her position. Sometimes that’s all Baby Black needed to settle.

After tossing and turning for an hour, it was obvious that Baby Black had plans of its own. With 4 weeks to go, Marlena was not even close to being ready to have this baby. Yet she knew something was happening, she just wasn’t sure what. Suddenly, twinges became pains that made Marlena wince.

Another hour had passed, and Marlena’s discomfort grew. She looked over at John who appeared sound asleep. “You’ve been having pains every 5-7 minutes for the last 2 hours Doc. I’m going to have Mrs. Daniels have a look at you.” Marlena turned on the light and sat upright grabbing her tightening belly.

“No, honey. It’s not that bad. I’m going to take a warm shower.” Before Marlena got up, she had one more contraction for the road. John was already at attention ready to handle whatever came his way.

Marlena calmly got through her contraction and made her way to the bathroom. John began to pace back and forth outside the door. “Doc, I’m going to wake Mrs. Daniels,” he called out. “Just give me a minute. It’s false labor. I’m sure of it,” she replied. She stuck her head out of the bathroom, “Not to mention I think I experienced the strongest orgasm I’ve ever felt. You wanna tell that to Mrs. Daniels too?”

John recalled the voracious sessions of love making that had occurred earlier. “Damn it Doc,” he said to himself. If anything happened to Marlena or the baby, he would never forgive himself. Disobeying Marlena’s request to wait, John went downstairs to wake Mrs. Daniels, their live-in midwife and nanny for Brady.

Marlena stepped into the warm shower and allowed the water to sooth her aching abdomen. The water pressure combined with the temperature was working. Suddenly feeling some relief, she took a deep exhale and turned off the water. Just as she was about to step out, it happened. She heard a faint pop and then saw clear fluid begin to run down her leg. 

 “Oh no!” she exclaimed. “Not now.” She grabbed a towel and took a seat on a teak bench. “John? I need you,” she called out. There was no answer.

Marlena didn’t panic. They had been preparing for this. They had decided that a home birth was the way to go although Marlena was starting to have second thoughts about skipping the epidural. This wasn’t like before with the twins. Things seemed to be moving faster and stronger.

 Suddenly the strongest contraction yet occurred. “Oh my god, are you kidding me?” she bellowed. She tried to remain calm and breathe but the pain was more than she could handle. She managed to put on a night gown and look for John. “Honey!” she yelled. “Things are happening. Call Mrs. Daniels.”

John and Mrs. Daniels raced to Marlena’s aide helping her to the bed. Out of nowhere the pains came so close together and so strong that Marlena was unable to prepare herself and focus. “Something is wrong, John,” she cried. “The contractions aren’t stopping!” Mrs. Daniels took control of the situation, assigning tasks to John to get him out of the way so that she could assess the situation.

Mrs. Daniels was definitely an asset. Within minutes, she had Marlena resting comfortably between contractions and was preparing for a delivery any minute. John returned with the supplies he was sent to retrieve. 

“How is she?” John asked. “The baby… she’s not due for weeks…” Before Mrs. Daniels could respond, Marlena cried out. “God help me! I think its coming! John!” John ran to her side and tried to hold her. “Mr. Black, I want you to listen to me,” began Mrs. Daniels. “The baby’s vitals are fine. Mrs. Black will be fine.”

John took Mrs. Daniels’ words as bond and kept a stiff upper lip. “I want to push. There is so much pressure,” bellowed Marlena. He legs began to tremble as she begged for relief. “Make it stop! Please make it stop! I can’t do this,” she cried. 

 “You are doing fine Mrs. Black,” said Mrs. Daniels. “You are almost there. I feel the baby’s head. You can push soon. Just slow your breathing down.”

Marlena knew she needed to focus on her breathing and take control, but there was little time to absorb how fast this was going. She had only had mild contractions for a few hours and was able to manage. “I’m not sure I can do this! John, make it stop,” she begged. 

 Marlena was overcome with pain rippling through her body. She could feel the baby moving down the birth canal. “I can feel it! I can feel the baby coming!” she cried as tears streamed down her face. Staring at the ceiling, she searched for relief, but it was to no avail.

John sat beside Marlena and held her hand. “I love you Doc. Any minute we are going to be holding our baby girl,” he said. “You still think it’s a girl?” asked Marlena. They had opted to be surprised and not find out the gender. “I had a dream and saw her face clear as day. She’s beautiful, just like her mama.” Just then another contraction came. 

“Well you are about to meet her. Mrs. Daniels! I have to push! Please tell me I can push!” begged Marlena. Her reflexes had taken over as she lifted her leg to make way for the pending arrival of Baby Black.

“It’s show time!” said Mrs. Daniels. “Mr. Black, would you like to do the honor?” John did not want to leave Marlena’s side, but the idea of delivering his baby, their baby was like a dream come true. 

He looked into Marlena’s eyes and even through the pain, they were able to communicate. John felt her approval and got into position. He had just enough time to scrub up when Baby Black began to crown.

Completely hypnotized by the sight of his child emerging had John euphoric. “Oh my gosh Doc! She’s got dark hair like Brady! I see her! I see her!” he exclaimed. Marlena dug deep for this next push. She now understood why they called it the ring of fire. “I can’t do this! John! Help me! I can’t do this!” Marlena pleaded. Fatigued and drenched in sweat, Marlena began to give up. “I want this over!” she screamed with a hard push. “What is in here? Get it out! Get it out!” she pleaded.

Somehow, John knew what to do. He looked deeply into Marlena’s eyes and didn’t say a word. Through their special love language, she knew immediately what he needed her to do. They stared into each other’s eyes like they had done so many times before. Secret glances from across a crowded room. Sharing a fond memory sparked by a faint aroma of lilacs. They could connect at the drop of a hat. Even though Marlena was in a tremendous amount of pain, she followed John’s lead and was able push without flinching.

Mrs. Daniels noticed the connection immediately and smiled approvingly. “Wonderful Mrs. Black,” she encouraged. “Now stop pushing.” Marlena followed Mrs. Daniels’ instructions without taking her eyes off John. Somehow, she seemed to brandish a smile. 

“Ok Doc. Her head is completely out,” John said with excitement.

Mrs. Daniels stood behind John to guide him. “Apply gentle pressure here while guiding the baby and then deliver the shoulder,” she instructed. With one last push and a blood curdling scream, Marlena had finally done it. Baby Black was here. She waited for John to say something, but he was so struck with seeing his baby, that all he could do was weep. Mrs. Daniels then took over. “Mr. Black, you did it! Congratulations.” After cutting the cord, she handed John the baby.

For what seemed like an eternity, Marlena waited with bated breath to hold her baby. John gently placed the baby in Marlena arms with tears streaming down his face. “Mrs. Black, please meet Brady’s baby sister.” 

 Marlena reached for her baby and it was love at first sight. She looked exactly like Brady with a splash of Samantha. “She’s a good size for being 4 weeks early,” said Marlena. “She seems to be quite strong,” added Mrs. Daniels. “I’ll take her now to get her all cleaned up to meet her big brother. He should be up soon.” John kissed Marlena and went to grab Brady.

Marlena began to laugh, “Oh my god. We have a 1-year-old and a newborn. Irish twins.” Mrs. Daniels smiled while finishing up and handing the baby back to Marlena. “My boys are less than a year apart. To this very day, they identify as twins,” said Mrs. Daniels. “And your connection with Mr. Black, I have only seen that one other time.” Marlena smiled, “How long were you married?” Mrs. Daniels put her hand over her heart and proudly announced, “45 years. I wish I’d married him first. It’s a special and powerful connection that must never be taken for granted. It’s a rare and special gift.”

John appeared holding a groggy Brady. “Hey buddy, I want to introduce you to your little sister. Now you have a big responsibility,” said John. Marlena reached to stroke Brady’s face. She had bonded with him and considered him to be her own, just like Carrie. “So, do we have a name?” asked Marlena. John looked at the baby’s face and smiled. He had no idea. “Well, I was thinking about Brady during all this. I don’t want him to every think that I would take Isabella’s place. What if we named the baby Belle?” suggested Marlena.

John was so moved by the gesture of naming their child after his late wife. It was a testament to how generous and loving Marlena was as a person. After a beat, John offered a caveat. “The only way I can accept the name Belle, is if you would legally adopt Brady,” said John. “He calls you mom. You’ve been a mom to him.”

Marlena smiled with delight. How about you hold our daughter Belle while I cuddle with our son Brady.

Chapter Two – The Magnifying Glass

Seattle, Washington was very different than Salem. Dr. Marlena Evans (Black) was finally starting to plant roots and allow parts of her old self to return. After taking a beat to adjust to having a new baby and a toddler, she decided to give thought to John’s suggestion to lecture at the local University. She missed her practice and really needed something to break the monotony.

Marlena stood in the mirror studying her reflection. She felt different but couldn’t put her finger on what she no longer recognized. Just when she started to apply her make-up, she heard Belle’s cry in the distance. While Mrs. Daniel’s was always there, it was important for her to be as hands on with the children as possible. Marlena took pride in waking up in the middle of the night to nurse Belle and soothe Brady after a nightmare. It brought back fond memories of raising Sami and Eric; at least the little time she had before she was kidnapped and ultimately separated from them for years.

“She’s fine Mrs. Black,” shouted Mrs. Daniels in the distance.

Marlena exhaled with relief and tried to complete her make-up but couldn’t seem to focus. Something was bothering her, but she could not figure out what it was. After taking a dramatic pause; she put everything back in its place, applied a subtle lip gloss and put her hair in a top knot. Today was officially a day of simplicity.

Marlena finally made it downstairs only to be greeted by Brady who happily sat in his highchair eating breakfast. “How’s my beautiful boy?” asked Marlena after kissing his head. She poured herself a cup of coffee and accidentally spilled it all over her hand and the counter.

“Ouch!” Marlena screamed.

Mrs. Daniels sensed that it was time to step in. She laid Belle in her basinet and ran to aide Marlena. “Please Mrs. Black, let me.” Marlena stepped aside completely overwhelmed. Once an accomplished and esteemed doctor, she felt utterly useless at this very moment.

“I am so sorry. I don’t know what’s wrong with me,” Marlena began. “I just can’t seem to get it together.”

Mrs. Daniels applied an ice pack on Marlena’s burned hand and led her to the table. “Please keep this on that hand for at least 15 minutes. I’ll get you a fresh cup of coffee,” she said. Marlena took her advice and sat at the table. Mrs. Daniels brought her a fresh cup of coffee and gave a loving pat on the shoulder. “Would you like this on the terrace? Perhaps the fresh morning air will help?”

Marlena didn’t know how to respond. She was incapable of processing anything right now, let alone decide what she needed. “Thank you, Mrs. Daniels. I’ll be ok. I’m not sure what’s wrong with me today. I just don’t feel like myself,” she said.

“It happens to the best of us,” said Mrs. Daniels with a compassionate smile. “Aren’t you going into town today?”

“I am. I was,” replied Marlena. “Part of me wants to get in bed and try again tomorrow. I promised John I would handle a few things so that’s not an option.”

John was away on business and would be back later tonight. Usually assertive and independent, Marlena started to sense that perhaps she was becoming codependent. Perhaps her disposition was because John was away. Was this the source of her angst? She was certain she would feel better once she was in his arms. Sometimes the smell of his skin and the comfort of his warm embrace was all she needed to restart, but she would have to find a way to push on.

“Did John call yet?” asked Marlena.

Suddenly the phone rang. Marlena’s heart fluttered with the hope that it was John on the other end. “I’ll get it!” she exclaimed as she ran to the phone. Her posture completely changed when she heard is voice on the other end.

“Hi Doc! How are my favorite girls? My boy holding things down?” asked John.

“I’m so glad it’s you. I miss you,” whispered Marlena. “Belle and Brady are great. Mrs. Daniels is a godsend.”

“And how is Mrs. Black?” asked John. “And before you answer that, please know that I felt you and know something is bothering you.”

Marlena blushed like a schoolgirl and walked out the kitchen for privacy. “I’m fine. I just didn’t like starting my morning without you,” she began. “But I feel better now.”

“I’ll be home tonight,” John assured. “We can have a nice dinner and…”

“Sleep?” asked Marlena.

Half serious and half not, Marlena felt a sense of relief hearing from John.

“That sounds like a plan,” said John. “I am open to anything that includes you.”

“And I am open to anything that includes you,” Marlena replied.

“What are you wearing?” John asked flirtatiously.

“Ask me that after I come back from town. You wouldn’t be impressed right now,” she said.

“Well I imagine you have on just a little lip gloss and a casual top knot. Showing off your natural beauty,” guessed John. “And if that’s true, I need to get home asap because It’s turning me on.”

John Black truly was her soul mate. He knew things about her before she did at times. He completed her in every possible way. She was certain now more than ever that her uneasiness was because she missed her other half.

Marlena smiled as she walked back into the kitchen. “I feel so much better now that I have spoken to you,” she said.

“Well I am glad that I could help. You wanna tell me what’s going on?” asked John.

“Nothing my love. If there was an issue, I can’t recall it now because talking to you has me over the moon,” gushed Marlena.

It didn’t take long for Marlena’s mood to improve and for her to feel compelled to push through the day. Speaking to John had put the pep back in her step. She thanked Mrs. Daniels again, kissed the kids and started her morning.

Marlena drove into town and conducted business as planned. She even managed to find a few local clothing stores with several things that caught her eye. It never even dawned on Dr. Evans that she was now Mrs. John Black which added many zeros to her bank account in theory. It never clicked until this very moment that she had direct access to a private jet and means beyond her comprehension.

Marlena stopped at a local café for a cup of coffee. It had been a while since she was out an about and the lack of sleep was starting to catch up with her. She found a private table in the corner that gave her a perfect view of everyone that entered and exited, something she learned from John.

While reading a magazine and drinking her coffee, Marlena caught the glance of an older woman across the aisle and smiled. It was strange trying to blend into a new town. Suddenly she craved a bowl of the chowder from the pub that once made her so queasy that the thought of ever eating again made her stomach turn. That little secret she’d committed to taking to her grave in fear of hurting Shawn and Caroline Brady.

After finishing her coffee, Marlena began to pack up and leave when she made eye contact with the older lady again. She had kind eyes. Marlena smiled again and left the café. John had assigned her the task of selecting an office in town. Nothing too ostentatious, but a subtle start.

She began her walk down Pine Ave on a mission. It was refreshing to take in new sights. The air smelled different. The faces looked different and she wasn’t sure how she felt about it. As much as she was grateful with being afforded a fresh start, part of her wished that things could have allowed her to remain in Salem. It was home.

Suddenly something caught Marlena’s eye. They were black cuff links sitting in a jewelry shop window. They immediately reminded her of John. Subtle but sexy. Bold but understated. She missed him like crazy. The smell of his skin. The sound of his voice. The taste of his kiss. Thinking about John made Marlena flushed with fever. This weekend made six weeks since Belle’s birth which meant they could resume lovemaking.

Marlena was happy to be home. She missed her kids and immediately went to their rooms to kiss them as they napped. She was right behind them. Her energy was low these days and a hot shower and nap was all she needed before John got home. The last time they’d made love, her orgasm was so intense that she went into labor. It could have been a coincidence, but she was certain that is what happened.

After her shower, Marlena put on John’s oversized T-shirt. It was something she did when he was away. Although she missed him beyond words, the idea of laying in the center of her bed was inviting. As her head touched the pillow, she found herself dozing. Freefalling into a deep slumber, Marlena’s mind began to wander.

John and Marlena were back on the plane arguing about his choice to leave Salem. It was a real fight filled with emotion, passion and pain.

“You can’t leave. We can figure this out. Running away isn’t going to solve anything!” pleaded Marlena.

“Doc, it has to be this way. Do you understand if I stay here, a lot of people are going to get hurt?” said John. “This is killing me. Knowing that I will never see you again. That I will never touch you!”

Marlena began to sob uncontrollably and clench her fists; something she did when she was afraid. John was torn. His instinct was to hold her and yet his mission was to end this cyclone of despair. This was the moment that opened that door to the point of no return. He reached out to touch Marlena’s hand and before long, they were swept away by a tide of emotion.

John began to undress Marlena layer by layer. Her coat hit the floor. Then the jacket. Without giving it a second thought, Marlena ripped the buttons on John’s shirt and allowed him to explore every surface of her body.

While in uncharted territory, but just making out; Marlena found herself at a fork in the road. She had about 30 seconds to decide how far this interlude was going to go.

“Wait, what are we doing?” Marlena whispered. It was a brief moment when John stopped, looked her dead in the eye and pondered the question. The throbbing in his head said one thing and the throbbing in his pants said another.

It was an intense standoff. Who was going to give in first? Marlena bit her lip anticipating John’s first move. John stared deeply into her eyes looking for an inkling of what she wanted to do. For the first time, his compass was off, and he couldn’t read her direction. Then it happened. Marlena began to unbuckle his belt.

“We are going to do what we have been wanting to do for months,” said John. He then picked her up and pinned her against the wall. He didn’t even bother to undress her. With her help, his pulsating manhood was now uncaged and ready to travel down her moistened path to glory.

John moved her lace La Perla panties to the side and plunged deep into a warm pool of Marlena’s sweet nectar. His first thrust was euphoric. It was like that first high he never wanted to end. To his delight, Marlena received all of him without hesitation. Her salivating loins beckoned him to explore all paths leading to her heart.

The animal instinct unleashed in John made his touch rough, but bearable and Marlena loved it. He ravaged her with every thrust pounding mercilessly bringing her to a wild frenzy.

“Oh my how I have dreamed of feeling you inside me again,” purred Marlena. “Please don’t stop!” she begged.

John had no intention of stopping or ever letting Marlena go. He buried his face into her neck and dug his rod as deep as he could possibly go. He could feel Marlena’s coital walls tighten around his shaft which almost made him explode.

The windows on the Alamain jet had completely fogged over. Sweating profusely, Marlena shed her bra exposing her perfect breasts and erect nipples which invited John to cup them. Marlena then somehow managed to extend her right leg over John’s shoulder which gave him full access to her dormant g-spot. With one final thrust, he hit Marlena’s promise land.

Marlena had fantasized about this moment for months. The sensation of John finding the treasure imbedded in her secret garden was what got her wet for Roman. She tried to fight her urge to scream, but couldn’t suppress it any longer.

“John!” she exclaimed while digging her nails into his flesh. “PLEASE DON’T STOP!” Marlena implored. Suddenly her body began to quiver uncontrollably.

John never uttered a word. He knew that if he spoke, he would climax. John carried Marlena to the sofa to change the tempo. He had waited so long for this moment and wanted to savor it.

Was this a good-bye? Would this ever happen again? John couldn’t answer that question nor was he about to ask. He just knew that his body craved Marlena’s and he was feasting.

John finally uttered a few words as he plunged into her. “Oh Doc. Don’t you feel this? We belong together. I can’t let you go.” He gazed into her eyes slowly pumping and massaging her walls. They were now making love. It was passionate and tender. Gentle and rhythmic.

They made use of the sofa for at least another hour tenderly exploring one another. For a brief moment, Marlena found herself riding John which brought him to the brink of a massive orgasm. She never forgot his tell. He had a way of closing his eyes with a pained expression before he came.

“Are you close?” asked Marlena. Before he could respond, it happened. For some reason, John could not hold out any longer and completely released himself in massive proportions.

Suddenly both of them realized what they had done, but it was done now.

“Shit. I was trying to get on top so that I could pull out,” he said apologetically.

Marlena to then realized how careless they were, but she would deal with that later. She hadn’t used anything with Roman so getting pregnant was the last thing on her mind. She collapsed on top of John taking pleasure in feeling his phallus deflate inside her. It was a feeling she had missed.

Suddenly the moment took an alarming turn. Roman suddenly appeared on the plane and became enraged when he saw his wife basking in afterglow while nestled in John’s arms. The musky aroma of sex lingered in the air.

“So, this is how you spend your time while I am at work?” asked Roman. “Getting knocked up on a private jet by your lover!”

Marlena stared at Roman in disbelief. “Roman!” she exclaimed. “I can explain!” She looked over to John who was no longer there.

Sami then appeared on the plane with a smirk on her face. “See daddy! I told you she would be here. I told you she couldn’t be trusted!”

Marlena was in complete panic and disbelief. This had to be a dream. A nightmare. Bad became worse when Stefano DiMera appeared from the cockpit dressed as the pilot. “I will take it from here Roman. You have my word that this will resolve the Brady DiMera vendetta. I will have my precious Marlena and child sired by John Black!”

As Stefano approached Marlena, she began to scream from the terror of his portly shadow growing closer. “John! Help me!” she screamed. “John, don’t let him take me again!”

“Doc, I am here. It’s ok,” said John in a comforting and assuring tone. “I am here, and no one is going to take you away.”

Marlena jumped up and realized that it was yet another horrible nightmare. Gasping for air and trying to ascertain if she was still dreaming, John stood before her trying to calm her down. “Doc, I’m here. You are safe.”

Marlena closed her eyes and took a deep breath. She realized that John was in fact home early and this was no longer a dream. She then exhaled and sobbed uncontrollably while jumping into his arms.

With much concern, John just held her, but didn’t ask what the nightmare was about. He knew the topic and he knew the frequency. Right now, he just needed her to be ok. He battled daily with uprooting them to Seattle and never imagined the transition would be this hard on Marlena.

After gaining composure, Marlena snapped back and rejoiced seeing John. “You are home! Oh my gosh, I missed you,” she said burying her face into his neck. “You can’t leave again. Just for a while. I can’t explain why right now, but just promise me…”

“I’m not going anywhere without you for as long as it takes. Hell, we will even take the kids and Mrs. Daniels if we need to. I promised that I would get us through this. It’s going to work out. Trust me.”

Marlena lifted her head from his shoulder and looked him in the eye and caressed his face. “Oh, I do trust you. With all of my heart and soul.” She saw the concern in John’s eyes. “I promise. I am ok. It’s just hormones and change. I’m fine baby.”

John smiled at his wife’s courage and resilience. He had no doubt that she would persevere. In the meantime, he was committed to getting her there. He pulled back and admired her brandishing his t-shirt. “Wait, is that my favorite t-shirt?” asked John.

Marlena gave a sheepish grin. “Well I didn’t get permission. I can take it off it you like.”

This was music to John’s ear as it had been 6…long…weeks since they had made love. Of course, Marlena did her best to orally satisfy him, but like the Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell song says, ‘Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing’. John pulled away for a moment and turned on some music and then returned to his horny bride.

He took her into his arms and slow danced for the entire song. At Last by Etta James crooned from the speakers as they completely allowed themselves this moment. It wasn’t just the sex with John Black, it was the passion. John Black didn’t just make love, he made moments and Marlena was here for it, all 8 inches of it.

Marlena felt so much better after a few uninterrupted hours with John. The missing link that she had been feeling dissipated and for the first time in a long while, Marlena felt like her old self. They walked downstairs for dinner arm in arm. Brady sat in his highchair ready to chow down and Belle began to squeal.

Mrs. Daniels appeared with a fancy spread of comfort foods. “A home cooked meal with family,” said Marlena. “This is wonderful Mrs. Daniels and so unexpected.”

Mrs. Daniels smiled and winked at John. “It was my pleasure Mrs. Black. A little birdie advised that family dinner was of the utmost importance this evening.” Marlena glanced across the table at Brady and smiled, “Did you ask Mrs. Daniels to cook this wonderful meal for us Brady? Or was it you Belle?” Marlena picked up Belle from her bassinet and began to nurse her.

“I have a bottle of breastmilk in the kitchen if you want me to take her Mrs. Black,” offered Mrs. Daniels.

Completely lost in Belle’s eyes, Marlena refused the gracious offer. She hadn’t pumped or nursed in hours so allowing Belle to latch on was ideal.

“Well then I will be on my way. Mr. Black has given me the night off and I am going into town to catch a show and dinner with my sister. Are you sure about covering the night shift?”

John began to help Brady get a few peas and carrots down while enjoying every moment. “I got the night shift. I have been away and miss my family. Thank you, Mrs. Daniels.”

Dinner was great, the dishes not so much, but John and Marlena pushed through. Now cuddling in front of the fire and drinking hot chocolate, it was time to catch up.

“I really missed you,” said Marlena.

“I was only gone 36 hours. I bet you didn’t even know I was gone,” replied John.

Marlena gave a naughty laugh, “Oh I missed you while you were away, but that’s not what I was talking about. Which reminds me, I have a gift for you.” She immediately dashed across the room to grab a small box and handed it to John. “I went to town today and saw this and it reminded me of you, and I had to get it. I hope you like it.”

Like a child on Christmas morning, John lit up with excitement and eagerly took the gift from Marlena’s hand. “You really bought me a present, Doc?” Before she could even answer, he opened the box to reveal the most exquisite set of Black cufflinks. One was engraved with a “J” the other with an “M”. John went silent for a beat and just stared at the cufflinks.

“Do you not like them? I’m sorry, I really thought…” began Marlena.

John silenced her with a kiss. “I love it. I see it. I get it. Like the charm bracelet I gave to you last Christmas. John Black. Marlena Black. And together, they are an exquisite pair.” John then dropped a bomb of his own. “And I have a gift for you!” he added.

Marlena sat up to attention just as eager as John was moments before. “Give me. Give me. Give me,” she squealed. Already prepared, John pulled a box from under the pillow and presented it to his wife and best friend.

Marlena opened the box and it was yet another charm to add to the aforementioned bracelet. It was a gold magnifying glass. Enchanted yet perplexed, she was determined to guess the symbolism. She immediately jumped to her feet and began to pace in front of the fire while smiling.

“Can I just tell you what it means?” asked John.

“No, wait. I can get this. Just give me a minute,” enthused Marlena. She was always game for a good riddle. “In the meantime, tell me about this secretive trip you had to take to Los Angeles.”

John stood up and began to pace. “Shane reached out to me. He had a debriefing at the Los Angeles ISA office, and he wanted to share some things with me in person to ensure the information remained privileged.”

Marlena froze in her tracks. Those three letters sent chills down her spine because it always led to danger and separation. “You didn’t! Please tell me you didn’t accept an assignment from Shane on some case. Tell me you didn’t commit to leaving me, us, for who knows how long while you are on some covert mission?”

John embraced Marlena. “I did not accept a covert mission from Shane,” he said.

Marlena exhaled with relief. “Thank goodness. I don’t think I could handle it right now.”

“I told him I had to talk to you about it first,” added John. He winced in anticipation of the fall out.

Marlena paused for a moment trying to maintain composure. “No! Absolutely not! John, we have a new baby. We just got married. We just moved here and…”

“There is more,” said John. “Sit down.”

Marlena followed his request but didn’t exhale. She was a trained and renowned Psychiatrist. Listening was her thing, but right now she didn’t want to hear what John had to say. John grabbed Marlena’s hand and she immediately began to sob.

John realized he had gone about this all wrong. He stood up and turned on all the lights and turned off the radio. He then knelt before Marlena.

“I’m an ass. Stop crying. There is no dangerous covert mission.”

Marlena looked up from her hands and asked, “There’s not?”

John wiped her tears away with his shirt. Let’s go back to the charm. My surprise. That’s the answer.

Marlena gave John a quizzical look, kissed him and immediately started to pace and talk to herself as she sometimes did when constructing a plausible scenario.

“So you spoke to Shane about something privileged. That is not dangerous or covert,” she began.

Marlena “Doc” Evans was in full force and her wheels were spinning. She continued to speak to herself again while waving her index finger. Her tussled mane bouncing all around. John could no longer hear her voice. He was so entranced with seeing a spark of the old Doc. He wanted to take it in.

Marlena finally stopped speaking and then shrugged at John. “Well, am I right?”

John came back from that whimsical place and smiled. “I didn’t hear a word you said, so I will just tell you. Shane reached out to me because an Alamain chest was located during an art heist sting. Apparently it was stolen generations ago never to be seen again. The box had some special biometric code that could only be unlocked by an Alamain’s blood sample.”

Marlena stared at John with intrigue and disbelief. She sat across from him widening her brilliant hazel eyes and asked, “Well, what happened? Did the box open?”

John cocked his head to the side and raised is eye brow as he sometimes did before answering a hard question. “No. It didn’t open and now you and I are on the case to find out why. Our first stop is Switzerland. I think this is going to be a hard riddle to crack, and if I know my girl the way I think I do…”

Marlena held up the magnifying glass and said, “If you find me a clue, I’ll find you an answer. Pack the kids, we are going to Switzerland.”

Chapter Three – The Bruce Wayne of Salem

Christmas in Zurich sounded like a dream come true. Albeit the insanity of taking 2 babies, a nanny and now an assistant via private jet. In order to make this work, all hands-on deck were required.

“The kids can’t miss a beat. We have to be there to tuck them in. I am still nursing Belle as much as I can,” said Marlena as she packed her bags full of excitement.

John sat in the armchair reading papers and smiling from ear to ear.

“What’s so funny?” asked Marlena.

“Nothing dear,” John replied.

Marlena zipped her bag and sat in the adjacent chair. “Are you making fun of me?” she asked matter of fact.

John took a beat and then sat his papers down. Choosing his words carefully, he grabbed Marlena’s hand. “I am in no way making fun of you. I am enjoying watching you. I am making sure that I have made the right choice involving you in this.”

Marlena knew when John became “Mr. John Black”, there was a difference. John was her lover and best friend. Mr. John Black on the other hand was a wealthy and philanthropic man of mystery. The Bruce Wayne of Salem. A man with an honorable mission albeit dark past.

“All jokes aside, I know there is more to this than you are letting on. And I know that there will be some hazards along the way, but I am here for the ride baby,” assured Marlena. “I know that you have included me because you are worried about me. You think helping you with this will give me a sense of purpose.”

Marlena then got directly into John’s face and looked him in the eye. “Thank you for believing in me,” she said with heartfelt sincerity. “I won’t fail you.”

This affirmation was enough to make John feel better about inviting Marlena to assist. He had all the hopes in the world that this trip would be exciting enough to break the monotony, but safe enough to avoid all calamities.

John smiled with pride as he looked at his wife. She was a true reflection of everything beautiful. She was kind, courageous, feisty and bad ass. He grabbed the papers he looked over earlier and began to debrief.

“We land in Zurich at 0800. We will be staying at the Alamain Chateau as a family. When on a case, there will be an apartment in Geneva,” said John.

John handed Marlena the file which contained photographs of various works of art, properties and building schematics.

“Our first mission is to go to the Swiss Gold Safe in Gotthard. I am looking for this little beauty right here,” said John as he pointed to a photo of a painting. Astonishingly, it resembled Vivian Alamain.

“Shane has reason to believe that this painting holds the key to opening that box,” said John.

Marlena observed the photo in detail. “Any leads on how this photo is the key?” she asked.

“That’s where you come in. You my love, have an insatiable knack for details. You will be playing the wife of a wealthy man with expensive taste in unique relics and antiquities. I have a list of pieces that I will need you to become very familiar with in the next couple days,” said John.

Marlena became more excited about this adventure but remained serious and focused. It was all enigmatic, but that is precisely why John needed her help. She then went to John’s desk and started rummaging through the drawers. She then extracted a magnifying glass to observe the painting of ‘Vivian’ closer.

“What is it?” asked John.

“Nothing. Well something, but I am not sure. This is the painting we are going to see in Gotthard?” asked Marlena.

“It is,” replied John.

“And Shane believes that the answer to opening the box is concealed in this painting?” asked Marlena.

John nodded. Marlena studied the photo and began to pace and talk to herself.

“What about this biometric lock that you said your blood should have unlocked? Why don’t we just use your aunt Vivian’s blood? Perhaps then we could open the box and get more information that way. Could be helpful to us in Zurich,” suggested Marlena.

“That would be an excellent idea if we could find Vivian. She hasn’t been seen or heard from in months. We are hopeful that she is on some exotic getaway so until we hear from her, this is our plan B. The story is, this woman in the painting was the wife of my great Uncle Vincent Alamain and the love of his life. She betrayed him by having an affair with the artist, who by the way has never been credited for this masterpiece. The story is that she became pregnant with twins, a boy and a girl. They were raised as Alamains, but it is rumored that one was a true Alamain and one was the artists,” said John.

“Which is very plausible if she was with both men during the same window. Busy lady,” quipped Marlena. “And yet so easy to do when the heart wants what the heart wants,” she said smiling at John.

“None of this makes complete sense yet, but I am certain that once we get our hands on this painting, something will be revealed,” said Marlena.

The Black family boarded the Alamain jet and took off without incident. The children slept peacefully for most of the flight which gave John and Marlena some appreciated down time. They cuddled in the corner under a shared blanket holding hands like lovesick teenagers in the back of a movie theatre.

“This is really romantic by the way,” said Marlena. “I know this is official business, but the notion that I am on a private plane with this sexy mysterious media magnate going to Zurich to view a priceless painting that belongs to his family…”

“Our family,” corrected John. “And it is terribly romantic,” he finished and sealed it with a kiss.

John’s kisses were magical. They always gave Marlena a rush of adrenaline that lead to her becoming extremely aroused.

With the shield of the blanket, Marlena rubbed on John’s inner thigh flirtatiously. It didn’t take long for his member to rise to attention. Marlena felt it and began to fondle him even more. John reciprocated by reaching into Marlena’s pants anticipating exactly what he found, a pool of wetness.

Marlena closed her eyes and rested her head on John’s shoulder and enjoyed her playful massage. John inserted 2 fingers into her love canal and began to really stir her juices. Marlena gave a sheepish grin then let out a low moan. They were approaching dangerous territory as they were in the main cabin with everyone. Although the lights were low, and they were covered with a blanket, this could only go so far.

“Say, Mr. Black,” whispered Marlena. “Is there any place private on this jet?”

John then kissed Marlena passionately and then softly said, “Meet me in the back in 2 minutes.” John then got up and made a dash behind the curtain. What could he possibly have up his sleeve at 40,000 feet flying over the Atlantic? Marlena tried to guestimate how long it had been and couldn’t wait any longer. She got up and made her way to the back of the plane.

Stepping behind the curtain, Marlena looked for her elusive husband. “John,” Marlena whispered. “Where are you?”

Suddenly a small door opened abruptly, and John grabbed Marlena’s arm. The room was completely dark, but she was into the mystery. She could feel that the room had very little space to move around but there was a surface of some sort. A table or desk. No words were spoken. All that could be heard was the smack of wet kisses, rustling and moaning.

Marlena felt John spin her around and lean her over the surface. Naughty and forceful John turned her on more than she could adequately express. She felt his hands go underneath her blouse and unfasten her bra releasing her erect nipples. John then began to grind her from behind making him even harder.

Marlena braced herself for the decision John was going to make. She wasn’t sure who snatched her into the closet. Was it romantic and tender John? Was it bad boy John? Or was it Mr. Black? Mr. Black in the bedroom put 007 to shame. He was the guy that could find a way to dismantle a bomb, land a crashing plane and build a treehouse all while making love.

John continued to tease Marlena with small kisses on the back of her neck and grabbing her breasts. Yearning for him to take her, Marlena began to push against John to feel his hardness against her. With great discipline, John continued to torment Marlena by touching everywhere but where she needed. She could literally feel her own juices begin to run down her leg. Why was he torturing her this way?

Marlena began to feel around the table to get an idea of where she was. From what she could gather, they were in some sort of storage room. She pushed back into John with just enough force to move him and spun around. She couldn’t see his face, but she could feel his breath. It was fast and heavy.

Marlena stuck her tongue into John’s mouth and sucked seductively on his bottom lip. Of all the times to wear pants she thought. But on a mission, things don’t always go as planned so one must improvise. She pinned John’s left arm against a wall and grabbed his crouch with the other hand. He was so hard that Marlena could feel his pulse through his pants. She dropped to her knees and took him into her mouth breaking his level of defense.

John had given up the chase and submitted to the gentle kisses and deep throating action going on below his waist. John didn’t know who was orally pleasing him. Could it be Doc, the romantic lady? How about Marlena the wild and adventurous partner in crime? Or was it Dr. Evans? Dr. Evans in the bedroom was more of a femme fatale that could solve a big mystery, save a small village and make passionate love all at the same time.

He felt his knees start to buckle as Marlena did a new trick with her tongue. Suddenly the lights turned on to reveal John’s look of astonishment.

Marlena looked up at John adjusting her eyes to the light while taking him completely into her mouth. John’s eyes rolled into the back of his head and placed his hand on the back of Marlena’s head. She gave great oral but this was different. This was dirtier. This was exceptional.

Just before John was about to blow, Marlena stopped and stood before him silent with a smirk across her face. She had also manage to remove her pants while on her knees.

“Now what are you going to do with that?” she taunted.

John realized the she had switched the game from him tormenting her to her tormenting him and loved every bit of it. She was passing his test with flying colors. Now completely aware of their surroundings, John bent Marlena over the newly revealed desk and took her from behind. It was John’s go to when he needed to come right away.

“Oh no you don’t,” said Marlena. “3 to 1. Those rules still apply at 40,000 feet.”

John pumped aggressively. Somehow, he had managed to find Marlena’s g-spot immediately which dismantled her last line of defense. Both of them had surrendered control during this sexual interlude. Clearly all that mattered at this point was getting off.

“3 to 1?” asked John after thinking about what she said.

Just then, Marlena arched her back and grew limp. “I have to come 3 times to your 1,” she panted.

John wasn’t sure he would be able to fulfill his commitment. Marlena began to climax quietly as she quashed her urge to scream. There was something magical about an internal orgasm. She had mastered the art of being able to keep the sensation going in waves instead of one big explosion.

“This reminds me of the night at the Titan party,” moaned John. “When we made love on that table. You tried to resist even then.”

Marlena knew all too well about the night of the Titan party. She’d left the ballroom to clear her head. She was still processing the night she’d shared with John weeks before on this very plane. Seeing him dressed in his tuxedo working the room was more than she could bear. She couldn’t stop watching him and knew that someone would pick up on their energy.

John found Marlena in the boardroom and just like the previous time, they ravaged each other, violating every surface in that room, including that boardroom table.

Marlena couldn’t take it anymore. All games aside, her mission was to have this moment logged into the Mile-High Club’s hall of fame. “It’s okay baby. Let go,” she purred.

John did just that, but like the consummate gentleman, he allowed his wife to join him. Like kismet, they came together on a level like no other. Collapsing from the highest peak of pleasure, John and Marlena laid across the table in pools of sweat basking in afterglow.

John sandwiched Marlena between himself and the table. Burying his face in the back of her neck, he placed his hand on top of hers and began to smell her hair filling his lungs with the aroma of her pheromones. He felt himself getting a buzz from the contact.

“Damn it, Doc,” John began. “I love you so much. I can’t imagine my life without you.”

Marlena felt the same way. Although her journey to get to this place had been painful, she wouldn’t change anything for the world. “Nor could I without you,” she whispered.

The Black Family landed in Zurich without incident and moved into the Alamain Chateau with ease. It was more modern than Marlena envisioned. While decorated with several antiquities, the tapestries and wall colors were light and vibrant. The grounds were immaculate with a designated area for Brady to play.

John and Marlena settled into their private quarters and both knew there was no time for vacation. They needed to hit the ground running if they wanted to get ahead of this mystery.

John spread several papers over the bed to rehash the plan. Marlena resisted the urge to hug him from behind and remained present for John’s direction.

“We will take the train into Gotthard in the morning. This is where I need you to shine. I need you to examine several pieces that we have in the vault, but don’t express too much interest in any particular piece,” said John.

“I don’t understand. I thought we were here to study the ‘Vivian’ painting for answers,” said Marlena.

John took a deep breath and grabbed Marlena’s shoulders. “Doc, I have a hunch that we aren’t the only ones looking for clues. I am just not sure who we can trust,” said John.

Marlena rubbed her chin and thought long and hard. “What if I went alone?” she asked.

John whipped his head around and gave an incredulous look. “Are you insane? Absolutely not!” he responded.

“Just hear me out. I am the wife of a wealthy man who has a thing for relics and antiquities. Wouldn’t it make more sense for me to finish a leisure day of shopping by stopping by the vault to see what I could decorate with?” proposed Marlena.

John saw her point and it did look less suspicious. His gut wasn’t in alignment. “How about we go into town together. I’ll take a meeting nearby and you will find a reason to excuse yourself,” suggested John.

“And Mrs. John Black will just be in the neighborhood,” finished Marlena. They then high-fived each other and then sealed it with a kiss.

Marlena and John kissed their babies and headed out to begin their first day of Adventure. Marlena had spent the entire morning studying the pieces that John selected. They had made the agreement that behaving like love-struck newlyweds was not the best way to go.

John took a last-minute meeting according to plan leaving Marlena in a mood. Making sure onlookers saw her disgust, she left in a huff promising to spend as much as she possibly could.

Keeping the appearance in play, Marlena shopped a little before heading to the vault. John had called ahead advising that his wife would be there later this week.

“Why tell them that I arrive later this week?” asked Marlena.

John thought of everything. “So that they will know that Mrs. John Black is coming. We are talking about one of the most secure places in the world. I can’t think of too many people that can just show up,” he’d said. “They are expecting you, just not today. With any luck, they haven’t even made plans to accommodate you yet.”

Marlena got into character and arrived at the vault. She had to admit behaving like an entitled diva in the lobby was more fun than she could remember. Yelling demands and threatening to move her husband’s assets were just a tip of the iceberg when a manager tried to refuse Marlena access.

“Do you know who I am?” asked Marlena. Just speaking to people in this way went against everything she believed in, but this was part of the plan. Before long, her wish was granted, and she was given access. Remembering to not express interest in anything in particular, Marlena waited until she was left alone and began to study her surroundings covertly. While she didn’t see a camera, she had to assume that she was being watched.

She saw the painting and her heart skipped a beat. Resisting the urge to make that her first item to inspect, she selected a small statue right next to it. While holding the statue and glancing over it, she cut her eyes to focus on the painting. It was much smaller than she imagined which meant she would have to handle it more than she planned to. Luckily, she had taken the time to study the photo of the portrait with her magnifying glass earlier. She just needed a closer look to confirm what she suspected.

She looked through the selection for a few moments making sure to not show much interest. Finally making her way over to the painting, she could feel her pulse begin to race. She knew she only had a few seconds to spend with her only clue and was committed to producing results.

She then left the painting and went to a rather unattractive and gaudy brooch. It was adorned with several stones, although one seemed to be missing. Satisfied with her discoveries she shrugged and thanked everyone for their time.

Now on the train heading back to meet John, Marlena closed her eyes to imagine herself pacing back and forth. Making copious mental notes about the clues she just studied led to more questions than answers. As a scientist, she knew questions could be a good thing.

Marlena looked at her watch and noted that she would be with John shortly. She allowed her mind to focus on the sights outside of her window as a welcomed distraction while allowing her discoveries to marinate. Just as she was about disembark the train, she noticed a woman walk past her toward the back of the train. After a beat, she had a small feeling of déjà vu. She wanted to do a double take, but she knew it was key to remain in character. Maybe this whole espionage adventure was going to her head. She couldn’t wait to get out of character and compare notes with her love in front of a roaring fire. She felt her breasts swell even more which meant it was time to nurse or pump soon.

Suddenly the sound of a crying baby made her start to leak, one of many hazards faced by a lactating mother. She needed to find a ladies room to freshen up and headed to the back of the train. This created the perfect opportunity to catch a glimpse of the woman that had just passed her. She put on her sunglasses and headed off.

Marlena caught the attention of an attendant that pointed her into the right direction. As she made her way into another car, she passed the woman and noticed that there was definitely something familiar about her. She was a young lady. Modestly dressed and had kind eyes. It wasn’t long before the penny dropped. That was definitely a younger version of the older woman she’s smiled at in that Seattle café.

Could it be possible? Was Marlena being followed in Seattle as well as Zurich? Time was of the essence and she had to think fast. She immediately conjured a knee jerk plan that could by them some time. The only problem was, how was she going to get the message to John?

Chapter Four – Dr. Femme Fatale

Marlena scurried through the train station pondering her next move. She was almost certain that she was being watch. John would know what to do. Somehow, she had to alert him without making a scene. The plan was to meet up the road near the flower stand.

Instinct told Marlena to make a slight detour to confirm her suspicions. She decided to go into a boutique and look around. If she was being followed, she hoped to confirm it here. She inspected a few items and decided to make a few small purchases to buy herself some time. She looked around and didn’t notice anyone watching.

Maybe it was all in her head. Maybe she’d allowed herself to get caught up in the excitement. It was time to get back to reality. It was time to be a mommy and it was also time to nurse Belle. She still felt engorged which was extremely uncomfortable and growing more painful by the minute.

Grabbing her purchases and heading to meet John, Marlena could feel the cool air push against her. Bundling up even tighter, she felt a small patch of wetness on the front of her blouse again. Just a few more blocks and she would be free to adjust herself, but now was not the time.

As she turned the corner, she was more than relieved to see John standing in front of the flower stand holding a pink rose. She waved in the distance to garner his attention. About 30 yards out, John began to walk in her direction smiling from ear to ear.

“Forgive me,” he shouted.

Marlena figured he was still in character but couldn’t help but smile. As they walked toward each other, a black sedan approached John and a gloved hand extended from the backseat tinted window brandishing a pistol.

In slow motion Marlena saw the gun discharge in John’s direction. Her instinct was to run toward him to protect him. John’s instinct was to avoid Marlena’s direction at all costs. John took cover trying to avoid the hail of bullets. Suddenly, Marlena felt a bearhug tackle her from behind and push her to the ground. She could hear the cover fire coming from above her head.

The screech of tires could be heard as the sedan sped away in a haste.

“John!” screamed Marlena. She couldn’t see him through the pandemonium of panicked onlookers. Still being held down by a local bystander, Marlena struggled to get to her feet. “My husband! Let me go! John!” she cried out.

Suddenly John revealed himself unharmed. He ran to Marlena as fast as he could mad as hell that he had gotten her into harms way. It seemed like an eternity getting her into his arms. He embraced her tightly and buried her face into his chest.

“I got you, baby. We are ok. I got you,” he said soothingly. “Good job Willows. Did you get a good shot off?” asked John.

Clearly, he was speaking to someone else. Marlena lifted her head to see who Willows was. It was the lady with kind eyes. In astonishment, Marlena looked at John and tried to put two and two together.

John saw the look of panic and confusion across Marlena’s face. “I’ll explain, but not now. We gotta go. Now!” urged John.

An SUV appeared with security and ushered John, Marlena and Willows away from the scene. They rode in silence for a few moments. Marlena had so many questions, but she was too shocked to collect her thoughts.

John reached over and touched her shoulder and she flinched. It was a dagger to his heart.

“Doc…,” John called out.

Marlena didn’t answer John. She immediately looked at Willows and mouthed, “Thank you.”

“Don’t thank me Mrs. Black. I was just doing my job,” replied Willows. “I am Agent Willows. I was assigned to you by Shane Donovan.

John was shocked. His reaction clearly indicated that he had no idea about this.

“Shane had my wife tailed and didn’t tell me?” he said as he punched the window. “Where is he? I need to talk to him now!” John demanded. “Driver, stop the car!”

“Keep going!” corrected Agent Willows. “There is a safe house just up the road. We can debrief there. Clearly this has taken a turn that we didn’t anticipate.”

Marlena still hadn’t uttered a word. Nor did John. The only inkling he had of her mindset was a gesture to grab his hand. That was all the confirmation he needed that she was still with him.

They pulled into the courtyard of a quaint church near the Schanzengraben Canal. Standing in the middle of the courtyard was Shane Donovan. He braced himself for the forecasted hell to rain down on him from John.

John immediately hopped out of the car before it came to a complete stop. “Wait here,” he commanded, leaving Marlena in the SUV only to spectate.

Marlena tried to make out what Shane and John were discussing. Pensive that it would come to blows, Marlena looked on with bated breath. “Once Shane explains why we had to pivot, it will be ok,” assured Willows.

Marlena whipped her head around and looked at Agent Willows incredulously. “My husband just dodged a hail of bullets on a public street in Switzerland. Nothing about this is ok. Someone knows that we are here, and I am starting to think that we aren’t welcomed.”

“Touché,” replied Willows. “Mrs. Black, I have to admit you have good instincts. You are a natural.”

Marlena continue to watch John and Shane converse. Shane’s body language seemed apologetic. John appeared agitated. “I’m a mother and a psychiatrist. Those two careers combined have me conditioned,” explained Marlena.

Suddenly, John’s posture changed from aggressive to crestfallen.

“Conditioned to protect your family?” asked Agent Willows.

“Conditioned to smell the bull shit,” quipped Marlena.

John buried his face in his hands and without hesitation Marlena unbuckled her seatbelt to run to his side. Whatever Shane just shared was heavy.

Marlena reached John and Shane’s impromptu huddle and embraced John without saying a word. She had just enough in her to allow him to melt down before drilling him about what the hell was going on.

“Shane, we need cover,” said Marlena as she surveyed their surroundings. Still hugging a broken John, and walking toward the church, “Get that car out of sight. I need a status check on Mrs. Daniels and my children. I want additional security at the Chateau.”

Shane had no rebuttal. Everything Marlena said was spot on.

Marlena got to the entrance of the church and looked back at Shane. “I’ll need a few moments with John. After that, I want a complete explanation about what’s going on and this time, I want to know everything. And a gun would be nice too. Preferably, an HKP7. Thank you.”

Marlena found refuge in a scullery. It was small, private and only had one entrance. Something had rocked her husband beyond words, and it was clear that she had to approach this carefully. John sat on a wooden bench in the corner and took a deep breath. Marlena said nothing and just rubbed the back of his head.

“I’m on your time baby,” said Marlena. “But before anything, I need to make sure my kids are ok. Once I hear their voices, we can talk about anything you want.” Marlena took John’s hand and kissed it. She had never seen him so defeated. Part of her was too afraid to ask what had him so shaken.

Marlena knelt before John in hopes to coax answers from his apparent broken spirit. He caught a glimpse of her hazel eyes peering from behind her tussled blonde tresses. Out of desperation all he could do was kiss her. It wasn’t the John kiss that led to unbridled passion. It was the John kiss that suppressed fear and anxiety.

Marlena obliged by reciprocating only she didn’t close her eyes. Nor did she allow the hypnotic swirls of John’s tongue to distract her from getting answers. John persevered with trying to escalate his kisses to another level. While Marlena was never one to resist the sexual advances of John Black, she needed to be stronger. She pulled away from John with authority and knew she needed to approach this clinically.

“John. Something happened. I need for you to tell me what you are feeling right now,” said Marlena. “I need for you to trust me and I need for you to let me in.”

John tried to hold back his emotion and then exploded. In a blind rage, he ransacked the few items on the shelf and began to smash the framing of the small bench that had just given him support. The clamoring of pots and pans echoed down the stone hallway summoning Shane and Willows with pistols drawn.

Marlena stood vigil in the scullery doorway protecting John’s makeshift punching bag. “I need for him to purge right now. It’s the only way, the best way, to get him to let off steam. Let’s set up in one of the offices. We will both be there shortly,” stated Marlena.

She had taken on a leader persona that she never knew existed in this capacity. If John was incapable of calling the shots, Marlena took his proxy. If John Black was under attack, then so was she. So was Brady and Belle.

After completing his tantrum of sorts, John was able to find his center. Marlena still stood guard in the doorway of the scullery with her back to John, giving him the privacy he needed to collect himself with dignity. John knew what Marlena was doing. She was taking the lead without emasculating him.

John popped his neck as the final step to getting back into character. He then walked behind Marlena and kissed the back of her head and whispered in her ear. “I have never been more proud and grateful to be your husband than I am at this very moment.”

Marlena closed her eyes and smiled hearing the voice of her John Black. “Nobody takes a shot at my husband and gets away with it,” said Marlena.

“A Heckler & Koch P7? Can you handle the recoil?” asked John.

“The question is, can whoever shot at us handle the business end?” asked Marlena

John didn’t know where this femme fatale persona came from, but it was sexy as hell.

After taking a moment to relieve the pressure from her sore and leaking breasts, Marlena took a seat at a large round table.

Shane then proceeded to opening a floodgate of newfound intel. “About 5 months ago Vivian and Ivan were seen in Munich at an art gala hosted at The Residenz Museum. Apparently, Vivian had gotten into a bidding war and won. Once the piece was acquired, Vivian had arranged to have it transported to…”

“Let me guess, the Swiss Gold Safe?” asked Marlena.

Shane’s expression concurred. “Exactly. The only thing is, the art never arrived, and Vivian and Ivan vanished without a trace. The ISA was alerted because of the Alamain affiliation. We suspected it was part of an art sting that we had in play and sat on it for a few days. After the sting, we came across…”

“…The Alamain chest I flew out to open,” finished John. “Which should have opened with my blood.”

Agent Willows then stepped forward to add another layer to this already convoluted story. “When John couldn’t give us access to the chest, we thought the trail was cold,” shared Willows.

“That’s when we received this right after John left,” said Shane as he tossed 4 disturbingly graphic 8×10 photos on the table.

To Marlena’s horror they were photos of a gruesome crime scene. Blood was splattered all over the floor. 2 dead bodies laid face down. Part of her wanted to shield her eyes and yet she knew it was something she couldn’t hide from. As she examined the photos closer, she was sickened to realize the bodies belonged to Vivian and Ivan. Her heart sank as she glanced over at John.

Shane continued. “After we received these images, I dispatched my nearest agent to Seattle to survey those affiliated with the Alamain family. Agent Willows happened to be on another case nearby and I did ask her to check on you Marlena. My goal was to confirm you and the kids were safe. Nothing more.”

John pushed on for more details. “Why didn’t you tell us this before we set off for Zurich?” asked John. “You allowed me to bring my family into harms way Shane and that’s really pissing me off man.”

Shane was apologetic beyond words. He knew how bad this looked and would spend a lifetime proving that this was beyond his control. “John, Marlena…I swear to you, that I had absolutely no idea about how much danger you were in until it was too late. I had just enough time to get here with Willows and…” Shane broke off and stopped speaking.

Agent Willows stepped forward to complete Shane’s thoughts. “We weren’t sure if you and your family were a target John. When nothing seemed out of the ordinary, we didn’t put it all together until a few hours ago.”

John heard all the explanations he wanted to hear. It still didn’t pacify his feeling of guilt involving Marlena and the kids. This entire mission had been compromised and the only way out was forward.

John looked over to Marlena and nodded, “You know what we have to do Doc?”

Marlena took the gun from John’s waste and loaded one in the chamber and then kissed him passionately.

“We have to get them before they get us,” Marlena said.

The events of this afternoon had completely derailed Marlena’s plans to investigate her findings in the vault. At the time of her examination, she felt like she had something to go on, but now things had taken a dark an ominous turn. She was confident that she would be able to extract new leads to what was going on, but she couldn’t push on until she laid eyes on her babies.

After devising and new plan to rendezvous with Shane and Willows at a new location, John and Marlena opted to commandeer a small speed boat at sunset. The intent was to get back to the chateau undetected, but like every other event in their life; this boat ride turned into a moment.

John hit the open water and allowed the sea spray to hit is face. He steered with one hand while holding Marlena with the other. As anxious as he was to get to the chateau to move Mrs. Daniels and the kids, he needed to have a side bar with his partner in crime.

The boat slowed down and John killed the engine. He turned to Marlena and grabbed her tightly. “I love you and I promise you that I am going to get you out of here and get you someplace safe. If anything had happened to you today…,” started John.

Marlena placed her finger on John’s lips to silence him. “Shh. If this is going to be a speech about how you are going to protect me, I think we’ve proven that we are going to take care of each other. I am your partner in this and everything moving forward. Everything,” Marlena emphasized.

Although it was not the right time to get lost in a moment, it was Jarlena after all. Fate would never allow a Swiss sunset to disappear below the horizon without some form of romance. John kissed Marlena tenderly as he caressed her back to shield her from the frigid temperatures dipping.

Knowing time was of the essence, he quickly shoved his hand down the front of Marlena’s trousers to make sure his late-night snack was safe for tonight’s feast.

“John,” Marlena purred. “We have to get going.”

John knew she was right, but once he got a hint of her scent, it was almost impossible not to splurge. He did manage to start the boat and put it into gear, but he refused to remove his other hand from between Marlena’s thighs.

“Let me hear you just once,” John begged. “Watching you today, was sexy as hell.”

“As long as the boat keeps moving,” Marlena conceded.

John managed to steer the boat with his left hand while fingering Marlena with his right. To make her loins accessible, she sat beside him and rested her head on his shoulder and enjoyed the pressure and friction applied by his precise and comforting touch.

Even in the face of peril and uncertainty, John still manage to get Marlena off. One thing about being alone on a boat with the roar of the engine, she could scream as loud as she wanted to without waking the dead.

“Oh baby!” Marlena screamed as she grabbed John’s hand. “I’m going to come!”

This was music to John’s ears. While focusing on their route ahead, John smiled with delight feeling Marlena quiver beside him and purr in his ear. As the sun disappeared below the horizon illuminating the Swiss landscape, Mr. and Mrs. Black bid Zurich good night and farewell. 

Chapter Five – Munich Mayhem

Vacating the Alamain Chateau in a haste was not part of the plan, but the Black Family cleared out in record time. It was disappointing to Marlena because she was very excited about exploring the property and having a picnic in the gardens with Brady.  

True to form, John Black had his family and staff on a private helicopter headed to Munich, Germany in no time flat.  Sadly, the first and only time Brady saw his playground was when he was carried across it in the middle of the night to board the luxurious aircraft.

John took nothing for granted and had two well-armed security guards accompany them. Marlena cradled Belle in her arms and nursed her into a peaceful slumber during their 55-minute flight. Now that she could see that her kids were safe, Marlena could now focus on the true reason they were in Zurich to begin with.

It wasn’t long before they landed on the rooftop of their new lodging. They now had a penthouse in an exclusive high-rise apartment in the Schwabing neighborhood over-looking the city. 

John did a walk through with his security team covering all bases.

“My wife has had a day, and if nothing else, I need her to sleep well at night.  No one that I haven’t listed even gets confirmation that we are staying here, let alone are granted access to this floor,” instructed John.

Enough was enough and after the carnage unleashed in Zurich, nothing was being left to chance.

It was just after midnight when they got settled.  Mrs. Daniels and her assistant were squared away in their quarters and John and Marlena opted to take the smaller room because of the fireplace and adjoining office. 

Marlena dug the cozier atmosphere. While she’d miss the ability to walk the grounds for fresh air and playtime with Brady, it was still exceedingly accommodating. The balcony was her favorite amenity despite John’s apprehension about using it right now.

Marlena walked out the bathroom drying her hair completely exhausted. John laid in the center of the bed knocked out.  He was actually snoring which was a clear indication that he felt safe enough to rest.  This made Marlena exhale. She stood in front of the fireplace in deep thought while continuing to dry her hair.

Pacing back and forth, she started to string together the information she had gathered. Suddenly, something piqued her interest and she ran to the adjoining office to grab the photos.  Using her trusty magnifying glass, she was more confident than ever that she’d found a new lead. 

John tossed and turned for a few moments and realized Marlena wasn’t asleep beside him.

“Doc!” he called out when she was nowhere in his sights.

“I’m over here,” she called from the office. She was sifting through tons of books that were scattered all over the desk. 

John rubbed his eyes and groggily made is way over to her. He stood behind her looking at the mess before them. “Honey, what are you doing? Come to bed,” said John.

“In a minute darling. I’m looking for something,” said Marlena as she turned the pages in one of the various books in front of her. 

John tried to coax her to bed by rubbing her shoulders and moving his hands down the front of her night gown.  Marlena was weakened slightly, but not enough to deter her from this hot lead. She smiled but stopped John’s advances.

“Honey,” Marlena began. “You brought me here to solve a puzzle and I intend to do it.”

“And I have all the faith in the world that you will furnish results tomorrow,” started John.

Marlena didn’t look up and acknowledge John for a beat. She then looked up with a smile and said, “Or, I can furnish them right now.”

John stared at Marlena in incredulity. “Wait, what?” said John. 

“It was the hunch I had back in Seattle,” started Marlena. “For some reason, it wasn’t the painting that was bothering me but this.” Marlena grabbed the magnifying glass and had John examine it closely.

John studied the photo closely and missed it. “Doc, I’m sorry, but what am I missing?” asked John.

Marlena’s hazel eyes twinkled brilliantly as they always did when she had an aha moment. “How many paintings have you seen where the subject is being upstaged by the background?”

John paused for a few seconds, letting Marlena’s question sink in.  He then took the magnifying glass and looked at the picture again. He then looked at her and smiled. 

In an effort to appease her demanding husband, Marlena agreed to stop working and come to bed since she had found a new lead worth sharing with the team. It was exciting and a relief to know that all wasn’t lost and there were still answers to be found.

Marlena laid in the nook of John’s arms trying to fall asleep and yet all she could do was think about what she had just confirmed. She looked over to the clock and noticed that it was 4 AM and she was wide awake. 

“Honey,” whispered Marlena.

John tightened his grip around his wife without opening his eyes, “No! The only way I’m letting you get up is if it’s to make love to me,” he mumbled.

Marlena pondered the proposed exchange of goods and services. “So, if I put out, you’ll let me finish my job,” asked Marlena.

“Yes,” said John.

“Well, Mr. Black, I’m not sure how it works in Munich but in the States, this falls under sexual harassment. I would hate to file a complaint against these…advances,” joked Marlena. 

“Well I guess you’d better also add to your report that I fondled your breasts and stuck my finger in your…,” began John.

Marlena jumped when she felt John act on his words. He had in fact stealthily made his way to her upper inner thighs. 

“You naughty boy,” she jokingly chided. “I should also mention that I plan to add that you ferociously stuck your tongue down my throat and proceeded to kiss me all the way down to my belly button.”

John proceeded to doing exactly that. He kissed Marlena passionately allowing his forceful tongue to explore her mouth.  Seductively pulling away, he then disappeared underneath the sheets to find himself face to face with a trail that he had been dying to travel down since yesterday.

“You should also add to your report, that I held your thighs open and snacked on your pearl tongue bringing you to a climaxing frenzy while threatening job security if you resisted,” teased John.

Marlena closed her eyes and began to enjoy the feast taking place below her waist. The excitement of her new discovery mixed with the much-needed intimacy she craved from the best lover she ever had was the perfect way to start the day.

John’s tongue skills were exceptional this morning.  Marlena wasn’t sure if it was the 4 hours of sleep he had finally gotten or the good news that they had uncovered a new clue. Either way, she felt that he was reciprocating for the moves she’d put on him during their transatlantic flight into Zurich.  

Like her oral pleasure tactics before, his too were different. Dirtier. Exceptional. 

Marlena began to squirm trying to repress her urge to climax.  Just when she was about to explode, John then switched the game and inserted his rock hardness into her pulsating snatch. 

It felt good to actually make love in a large bed again. It felt good to roll around and use all four corners of a king-sized mattress transitioning from position to position. Starting off with the classic missionary, John pumped and dug his dipstick to the very depths of Marlena’s soul. It was that good pain that one can’t stop yearning for.

It wasn’t long before Marlena took control and rolled John over to his back for a round of reverse cowgirl.  While it didn’t rank high on the creativity scale, it was highly effective in controlling how deep John went. If nothing else, this gave her a moment to pace herself. 

Marlena knew when to anticipate marathon sex. It was the odd night when each would select the next position in hopes of making the other come first.  Unbeknownst to John, Marlena always played the defense because it gave her a chance to catch her breath in between John’s personal favorites.

John then pushed Marlena off of him and spun her around to face the headboard and entered her from behind. She suspected John had a big finish planned because doggy style was his go to when he wanted to come right away. Suddenly, John placed a few pillows under Marlena giving her pelvis the perfect tilt. With one angled thrust, John had discovered a zone that Marlena didn’t know she had.

John’s strokes were slow and deep, concentrating on this new zone that Marlena was becoming acquainted with.

“Oh John,” whispered Marlena. “You. Win. You win. You win. You win,” she moaned as her eyes rolled into the back of her head. She had completely forgotten what position she had in store next because this one had her completely satisfied. 

John pulled Marlena’s hair up to expose the back of her neck and softly kissed her while smelling her hair. Suddenly collapsing on top of her without putting all of his weight, John bear hugged Marlena allowing the warmth of her back to blanket his chest. Still committed to slow circular movements, Marlena couldn’t take it much longer.

John continued to move in a very tantric like motion. The intimacy and overall connection was almost transcendental. Marlena always felt extremely close to John, but this time was different. There was an extra level. Almost like she could read his mind or see through his eyes. If this was what sex was like while on molly, she’d have to consider it.

Marlena buried her face into her pillow and began to scream as her body succumbed to the perfect pressure and friction presented to her by her lover. She actually felt the urge to talk dirty, at least her version.

“Please f*ck me,” Marlena begged.  “Please just punish me and don’t hold back. Please. Please.”

John didn’t listen. He enjoyed how connected they were and how close he felt to her at this very moment. “No, I want to hold you like this a little longer. Stay with me. Feel me,” guided John.

Marlena slowed her breathing down to match John’s. In tantric sex, she recalled to inhale as her partner exhaled. It was supposed to help improve the connection. She was able to slow her breathing down and suppress her urge to come.

For the next 2 hours, John and Marlena explored each other on a level they hadn’t truly explored to this extent. Perhaps the excitement and danger that had been forced into their lives was a reason. Perhaps it was just an organic manifestation of their love.

Regardless of its origin, it was abundantly clear that something magical had transpired in that room last night. Not only had John’s Doc returned in her entirety, but she was also invigorated with a sense of life and vitality that he had not seen since his days as Roman “RoJohn” Brady. From the moment Roman returned, Marlena had been different. Repressed.  Tonight he saw and felt her rise ominously like the phoenix tattooed on his back.

If getting showered with a hail of bullets and running for their lives wasn’t enough to make John and Marlena sleep in, 5 orgasms between the two of them certainly was. Pillows, blankets and sheets were scattered across the bed and floor as they slept on top of each other in the center of the bed. 

The morning light was determined to peer from behind the shades as there was an eager knock on their bedroom door.

Marlena lifted her head to check the time.  It was 10 AM! 

“Oh my gosh, John wake-up!” urged Marlena. 

John jumped up in panic mode ready to fight. Marlena realizing how she had awakened him, immediately grabbed his face and spoke to him intensely, “Its ok. Its ok, baby. We overslept. Shane and Willows are here.”

John got his bearings and opened the shades letting the bright sunlight shine on his face.  Staring out into the Munich skyline, he knew it was a new day with a potential new set of obstacles. Marlena came from behind him and kissed his back while grabbing his chest.

“Before I clock in, I wanted one more cuddle before its business as usual,” said Marlena. She then stood beside him to also take in the sights. It was a beautiful view. “Shall we get into some things, Mr. Black?” 

John kissed her on her forehead and said, “Yeah, and I am going to assume your claim for sexual harassment has tons more detail now.”

“You bet your ass. The filthy things you did to me,” said Marlena. “The last I recall, that was attempted sodomy.”

John brandished a sheepish grin, “THAT was an accident. It was dark and I completely mistook your…” he began.

Marlena silenced him with a final smooch before they were interrupted by another knock on the door.

“Sorry. We overslept. There in 5,” yelled out John.

Marlena reached down his pajama pants to feel his growing member. “How about 7 and we shower together?”

Arm in arm they scurried off to the shower to prepare for a day of new adventures. 

Shane and Willows found themselves completely consumed with Belle and Brady. The smell of a new baby and the joys of watching a toddler make discoveries was a captivating pastime. John and Marlena finally made it to the dining room table where Mrs. Daniels had put out an assortment of pastries and coffee. 

“Good morning Shane. Agent Willows,” said John.

Shane shook John’s hand and nodded to Marlena. “How did you guys sleep? I know you got in pretty late,” asked Shane.

Marlena and John looked at each other and smiled. “He snored and I worked,” teased Marlena. “Needless to say, we overslept. Did you get my message?” she asked.

“I did indeed,” replied Shane as Willows provided Marlena with a blow up of the ‘Vivian’ painting showing the painting background in higher detail.

“I believe,” started Marlena, “That this man or the artist of this painting holds a clue.” 

Shane gave the angle some thought. “Ok, I’m listening,” he said. 

Marlena began to pace back and forth, the preamble to some of her better revelations. “When I looked at the ‘Vivian’, there was too much emphasis on the man in the background, and not the subject.  Then I started thinking about what could have been going on during that time. It was the 18^th century and self-portraits were a thing.”

John sipped his coffee and watched his phoenix rise.

“The wife of Vincent Alamain wouldn’t have allowed just any artist to capture her likeness,” added Marlena. “It would have been someone vetted.”

“Or had other finished bodies of work to illustrate his talents,” added Shane as he slowly started to follow Marlena’s trail.

“Exactly!” said Marlena. “If we can identify this man or the artist, I feel like something will open up.”

John rubbed his eyebrow and then sipped his coffee. Marlena caught his glance and waited for his input.

“What are you thinking, John,” asked Marlena. 

“How are we going to find the identity of an unknown artist from the 18^th century?” asked John.

Marlena spun on her hills and gave her husband a sly grin. “Did I tell you I studied art for a summer before I went to med school? It was a fascinating opportunity to learn about what to look for when examining pieces of work.” 

Marlena showed an even closer blow up of the painting and got really excited. “I think this painting was an insult to Vincent Alamain. I think the man in the portrait is the man that Vincent’s wife had the affair with, and I think this was a way for him to remind Vincent where he had been so to speak.”

“That’s a stretch,” added Shane.

“Is it really?” asked Marlena. “What if the artist was hired to paint this portrait and during this time, he and ‘The Vivian’ fell in love. What if they were discovered and before fleeing or being confronted, this artist added himself to the portrait to flatter the wife but insult Vincent. He was taunting him.” 

Marlena found herself starting to forensically analyze the artist. “I think this man, whoever he was, was a sociopath. I think this man planned to seduce Mrs. Alamain and I think this man was around the Alamain family very closely for a period of time.”

Agent Willows had been completely silent until this point. “How are we going to prove this?” she asked.

Marlena swapped the enlarged photos.  “This started off as a portrait of ‘The Vivian’. If you look closely at the rolling hills and landscape, it looks familiar no?”

John got up to look closely and realized that Doc was right. “This looks like the backdrop of the gardens of the Chateau. The mountains here.  The trees over there.  It’s actually where the play yard is now.”

“Which means he was there. For a while. Long enough to sit in that garden for weeks. What’s even more interesting is that the man in the background was an afterthought.  It is completely painted over the first layer. He added this man after the portrait was considered complete.” 

Shane glanced over at John and smiled. While not completely sold on the theory, Shane was impressed at how well developed the concept was. “You got yourself a hell of a woman John. Now your theories are just that, but plausible enough to have our team look into it.  John, I’ll need your permission to have that portrait examined again.” 

The conversation went on for another hour. It was a productive think tank that allowed all four of them to throw everything at the wall but the kitchen sink. Shane had instructed a Swiss Gold Safe contact to get forensic data into the hands of the ISA immediately and until then, John and Marlena waited in their apartment with bated breath.

John watched his wife laying on the chaise reading a book on the balcony.  While he was slightly unnerved with Marlena being in the open, he made sure security remained vigilant. Sometimes he liked to watch her without her knowing it. He was mesmerized by how she moved. He was fascinated with how she would habitually remove her glasses when pondering something she’d just read.

Marlena had just removed her readers and started thinking again. She then grabbed the photo and used her magnifying glass again and smiled. 

“F.V.A.,” shouted Marlena. 

Just as John was about to ask what Marlena meant, the phone rang. It was Shane and he had some new intel. 

Marlena watched pensively from her seat on the balcony, waiting for a sign from John that there was helpful news on the other end. He nodded at least 5 times, but it was still hard to tell if it was good news or bad news.

John hung up the phone and grabbed a fax off the fax machine. He studied it and took it outside to Marlena.

“You first,” urged Marlena. She reached for the facsimile in John’s hand. “What’s this?”

“This is a list of all of the long-standing staff Uncle Vincent had during his time at the chateau.”

Marlena looked at the list of about 30 names. 10 of which were male. She studied all of the names and nothing stood out.

“What were you saying before Doc?” asked John. “F.V.A.?” 

“What I learned during my studies that summer was that artists can have distinct signatures, monograms and brushstrokes. And unless I am seeing things, what does that look like to you on the jacket of the man?”

John took the magnifying glass and saw it clear as day, “His coat bears the monogram F.V.A.,” said John.

He then looked at the facsimile again and didn’t see any corresponding names on the list. 

“Well, none of the names on this list share those initials,” said John disappointedly. 

Marlena continued to study the list again. “Not on the male side, but on the female side there is an A.V.A. What if this artist was a relative or spouse of the female staff?  It would offer access,” proposed Marlena.

Always impressed but never surprised with his wife’s brilliance, John began to smile.  “A.V.A?” asked John. “Whose initials were A.V.A?”

Marlena went down the list. “Anna.  Anna Von Amberg.” 

Chapter Six –The Englischer Garten

As a token of appreciation for a job well done, John treated Marlena to something they had never tried before, a couple’s massage and leisure day exploring Munich and all its splendor. The gardens, the bars and castles were more than enough to keep them busy all day.

Although a bit chilly, John and Marlena opted to have a picnic at The Englischer Garten. They found a quaint spot just beneath the Monopteros, this small temple that offered the best panoramic views. 

After a massive lunch, John and Marlena laid side by side looking at the beautiful and cloudless blue sky.  They hadn’t really talked about their latest discovery and the plans for the ISA to dig into the history of Anna Von Amberg.

Marlena closed her eyes and gave a long exhale. “We never had a honeymoon,” she stated.  “Is this what it would have felt like?” 

John grabbed her hand but didn’t answer right away.  He just continued to look at the sky.

“What are you thinking about,” asked Marlena. “You have been awfully quiet since yesterday. I thought you would be doing all sorts of deep dives with our new intel.” 

John raised his eyebrow and started forming his words carefully.  Marlena always knew when John was holding back.  He had a definitive tell.

“Tell me, love. What is it?” ask Marlena.

John sat up and kissed her forehead. “This is supposed to be a day of leisure, Mrs. Black. I don’t want to talk about the painting, the safe, the ISA or…” started John.

“Anna Von Amberg?” asked Marlena. 

John winced and went to his favorite way to avoid, a passionate kiss.

Marlena, while always open to John’s affection was also more than aware when he was in conflict.  She’d learned the hard way not to push.  Her approach was asking the right questions at the right time.

Marlena indulged John’s need to avoid. She also felt a little compelled to feel the romance herself.  Trying to maintain some modesty, she pulled away and brandished a bashful smile.

“Honey, later,” said Marlena as she looked around at all of the lovers and picnickers. “We are married for crying out loud. Married people don’t make out in public,” she joked.

John followed up with one last sensual kiss and then began to tickle Marlena.  Being extremely ticklish, she tried to get away, but John was relentless.

“Stop! No!” laughed Marlena. “I’m going to pee on myself.”

The only thing John loved more than Marlena’s laughter was being the source of it. It was infectious and made his heart smile when ever he heard it. 

“Remember when you called me relentless?” ask John. “Insufferable.”

“Don’t forget hell-bent,” added Marlena.

“That’s the one!  Hell-bent,” said John. “But you also forgot, hopelessly…,” he whispered followed by a kiss.  “Unapologetically,” he continued with another kiss. “Madly,” he added with a final kiss. “…In love with…TICKLING YOU!” 

Marlena couldn’t take it much longer and decided to make a playful run for it.  They had set up on a slope filled with lush green grass. To John’s surprise, she had a little speed.  John tried to catch her, but she was able to dodge his grasp.

“You thought I was slow, didn’t you?” Marlena teased.  “Track and field all-star baby.”

John was impressed but not surprised. So far, Marlena had proven that there was nothing she couldn’t do, except cook; at least in the kitchen. 

Using the momentum from running down the sloped terrain, Marlena had put a little distance between she and John.  She had managed to dodge in between others enjoying the grounds. Running forward but glancing back, Marlena lost her footing and collided with a nearby jogger tumbling to the ground.

At least 7 undercover security agents posing as tourists, pedestrians and picnickers jumped to attention and rushed toward the scene.  

John reached Marlena first and was shocked to find her unhurt and still laughing uncontrollably.  The jogger unhurt too, dusted himself off and went on his way. John held up his right fist as a tactical signal for his soldiers approaching to freeze.  To Marlena’s astonishment, a field of random men and women followed John’s command. 

“Are you ok Doc?” said John dusting her knees off.

“I am great!” she exclaimed. “I can’t believe you had security on standby without me even knowing.”

John felt busted and somewhat guilty.  His intent was to have things appear as normal as possible. “I’m sorry about the guys,” he started. 

“No, I love it! I love you! You made this day normal and safe and I will always treasure that,” she said. 

“You are my life and I will stop at nothing to protect you or make you happy,” said John.

“And I know there will be times when I can’t have both and yet here we are,” said Marlena as she kissed him passionately. 

Like newlyweds, they walked through the gardens hand in hand. Smelling flowers. Sneaking kisses behind trees and people watching.

“What a wonderful day! Thank you for this honey,” gushed Marlena.

“What kind of guy brings his girl to Munich and doesn’t take a romantic stroll in the infamous English Garden?” asked John.

Marlena found this to be a good time to ask one of her questions without pushing too much. “Any idea when we will hear back from Shane?” asked Marlena.

“I would guess the moment they get a lead,” replied John.  His posture changed again.  He seemed to have regressed and become tense all over again and Marlena felt it.

“Honey talk to me.  Something is bothering you and I need and want to know what it is. I want to help,” said Marlena. 

John looked around to see who was in earshot. “You know how the painting gave you a feeling?” asked John.  “Well the name Von Amberg gave me a feeling.  A very unsettling one.”

Marlena stopped in her tracks. “What do you mean unsettling? Explain exactly what you are feeling to me,” she said. 

“I felt a sense of alarm. Which was odd because I don’t know anyone with that name. It did sound familiar to me and I just can’t place it,” said John.

Marlena thought for a moment. “And you attribute some negative feelings when you hear the name? Have you been experiencing these feelings with anything else?” asked Marlena.

“No, not that I can think of. Maybe I had a dream and that’s why I am getting this déjà vu. I am sure it is nothing,” said John.

“I am not into this if it is going to make you feel unsettled. We can go home now. These few days have been more than enough,” said Marlena.

“No. I’m fine and we are going to see this through,” John assured Marlena.

“Well let’s make a deal. Let’s have a safe word,” suggested Marlena.

John, always having sex on his mind gave a devilish grin. “Safe word?  You mean we can try that new thing?” asked John half joking.

Marlena punched his arm. “No! Not that. At any time, if you want to stop and go home, just say the word and we will pack up right then and there.  Deal?” asked Marlena.

“Deal,” smiled John.  “I like that idea.  What word do you want to use?”

Marlena thought for a moment and then it came to her.  “How about Salem?” she proposed. 

Unbeknownst to John, Marlena had been thinking about Salem and the kids more than ever. She wanted to start bridging the gap as soon as possible, it was just hard to predict a good time.  She had kept in touch with Caroline most of all. Not only was she loving but understanding about the complicated situation.  To her credit, she never judged.  Perhaps it was because Bo, her youngest, was conceived with Victor Kiriakis during her marriage to Shawn.  

“Salem?” queried John. 

“Yes, I was actually hoping that we could stop through on our way back to Seattle.  I want to check on Sami and Carrie. Have some chowder at the pub,” said Marlena full of optimism.

“Well, it has been about 6 months and I am sure Caroline and Laura would love to meet Belle. Victor would love to spend time with Brady.  I just don’t want you to expect much from Samantha. She can be a little stubborn,” warned John. 

Marlena knew all too well how much of a hellcat her daughter was. Between the absenteeism during her youth and now the fall out from the affair, Samantha was out of control.  Roman would always indulge Samantha’s tantrums and then left on missions for weeks at a time, not sticking around to see the fallout from the chaos she’d instigate. Now, unfortunately, Samantha was completely incapable of taking accountability for any of her actions. 

“Ok so we’ve checked those two things off the list. What else do we need to talk about?” asked John.

“Oh, really important. How many kids are we trying to have?” asked Marlena.

John stopped in his tracks and reached for Marlena’s stomach. “Are you trying to tell me something?” he asked.

“Oh no! I’m not pregnant. At least I don’t think I am. But we don’t use anything, and you are a very…fertile man. If I’m not pregnant yet, it is only a matter of time,” added Marlena.

“Well I love baseball,” added John. “How about a team?”

“A team! How many is that? Like five? We have five!” exclaimed Marlena.

“Bad news Doc.  That’s basketball.  Baseball has nine,” said John.

Marlena’s eyes got big. “Nine?!” 

“Based on my calculations, that’s just 2 sets of twins. In and out. Cakewalk,” said John. 

John and Marlena made it back to the apartment without incident. The kids were up and ready for all the attention mom and dad could give. John rough housed with Brady while Marlena sat on the sideline nursing Belle. It was the quintessential family day and in John’s eyes, got no better than this.

The fun was broken by the ringing of the phone. Marlena answered the call. Said Ok and hung up.

“Who was that?” asked John.

“It was Willows. Shane is on his way. They have some news they want to share,” replied Marlena.

John stopped playing with Brady for a moment. Marlena saw the peace drain from his spirit.

“Honey, we can bow out when ever you are ready. We can stay here like this with the kids for as long as you want. We’ve given Shane enough breadcrumbs to see this through,” said Marlena. 

John Black was a prideful man. He took his missions and obligations seriously.

“No, we are good,” assured John.

Shane arrived soon after with more information. Marlena had been waiting for this update all day but the look on John’s face had given her a change of heart. Something was making him apprehensive and she was determined to get to the bottom of it. 

“I can chat with Shane if you want to go relax with the kids, John,” offered Marlena. 

John knew when his wife went into protection mode and he loved her for it. He knew he had to suck it up and put his feelings to the side.

“Let me go chat with Mrs. Daniels about my babies and I will be right back,” said John.

Marlena handed Belle over to her daddy and then kissed Brady. Watching John leave the room holding his kids with such pride melted Marlena’s heart.  She just got her daily affirmation that John was her everything. Maybe a baseball team wasn’t such a crazy idea.

Marlena poured Shane a cup of tea and set up at the dining room table. Part of her wanted to have a sidebar with Shane before John returned. Trying to seize the moment, but tread lightly, Marlena chose her words carefully. 

“Shane, is there anything you found that would be considered…upsetting?” asked Marlena.  “I’m just concerned about John.  He worries about us and I don’t want this to get even more spine chilling than it already has.”

Just as Shane was about to speak, John returned ready to work.

“Hi Shane,” greeted John as he shook his hand. “Thanks for doing the legwork on this. We needed to take a beat. 

Shane came back with just enough to give this case a little bit more momentum. He presented an envelope to John.  To Marlena’s delight, John didn’t open the envelope right away which gave her the opportunity to take it out his hands and segue.

“Was I right about the man in the painting being added much later?” asked Marlena.

She was right. Shane had confirmed that the paint colors and ingredients used to paint the man in the background were very different than the portrait of ‘The Vivian’ in the foreground. If nothing else, this proved that Marlena’s notes had been effective thus far. 

Not wanting to blindside John, Marlena waved the envelope in the air.  “Honey, did you want to talk to Shane about anything before I open this?” she asked. 

John didn’t answer right away which meant he wasn’t sure. This was precisely why she took the envelope out of his hand.  If he didn’t want to be part of this process any further, she was going to make sure they never saw the contents.

“Baby, just say the word,” said Marlena. 

John smiled and winked.  They were speaking their secret language which somehow gave John his second wind. He walked over to Marlena and took the envelope back and lovingly flicked the tip of her nose.

“I got it Doc,” John reassured. “I would like to have a security chat with Shane though.”

Marlena didn’t take the hint immediately.  Clearly, John wanted to speak to Shane alone.  Marlena excused herself and gave them some privacy.

Before John opened the envelope, he felt compelled to level with Shane.

“I haven’t mentioned this to Doc yet, but the strangest thing happened a few months ago.  I started having these strange dreams that I was at an event in a ballroom.  I could never make out the details, but I could hear the music and see shadows dancing,” began John.

Shane didn’t say a word but listened intently.

“Between movie night with Marlena, some awful foreign romance flicks by the way; lack of sleep and the stress of the move, I just thought they were just random dreams,” said John.

“Go on,” urged Shane.

“Well recently, the dreams got clearer.  I was able to make out more images in detail. Specifically, an invitation that had the name Von Amberg written on it,” finished John.

Shane processed this information for a moment. Before he could utter a word, Marlena popped her head back into the room.

“Are you guys still in conference?” she asked.

“No, we are good Doc. I was just about to open this envelope, unless you want to do the honors,” he said waving the envelope in the air.  

Marlena was salivating to see the contents and snatched it out of John’s hand without compunction. She scanned through the few pages of information pacing back and forth and then looked up in astonishment.

“Well I’ll be damned,” she muttered. 

John immediately looked at Shane and shrugged. Shane then silenced him in hopes to not distract Marlena during her process.

“Watch her work,” Shane whispered.  “The smoke is starting to come out of her ears.”

John watched his wife process her findings and pace back and forth in silence.

“Will someone say something!” said John.

Marlena took a deep breath. “Anna Von Amberg was a seamstress for the Alamain’s for nearly 15 years when she was wooed by a tailor that was new in town. They’d hit it off and were married almost immediately. It appears that almost a year to the day they were married, she left her job with the Alamain’s and opened a huge textile company that ended up being one of the largest in town without her husband.” 

John rubbed his chin waiting for the big reveal. “What else does it say?” he asked.

“This is where it gets interesting.  According to this, a series of thefts had been reported around the same time throughout the area.  Mostly pieces of art. There are at least 10 published articles describing them. Coincidentally, the day after Ana left her modest paying job of over 15 years, the authorities received an anonymous tip of a loft above a mercantile in town.  That room was filled with all of the missing art.”

John was trying to process it all.  Sure, the name and its involvement with missing art was definitely a hot lead, but he was also trying to figure out how the name Von Amberg related to him. 

“What are you thinking Marlena?” asked Shane. 

“What’s odd is, there is no mention of the husband. It’s like he vanished when she left the Alamains. What stands out to me is the timing.  Anna wasn’t wealthy and even with a savings, there is no way to explain how she could have afforded to buy, own and operate one of Europe’s most exclusive textile companies. I would have thought her money came from the proceeds of stolen works, but they were all recovered.  Well all except 3; a bust, a ring and vase.  Those were never recovered.”

“But the others were, and I can assume they were all paintings?” asked John. 

“They were all paintings. So, we have a Von Amberg directly link to paintings.  The only thing is, Anna didn’t paint. Which means it was…,” started Marlena.

“The tailor. We need the name of the tailor! Was there a marriage recorded, Shane?” asked John.  

Chapter Seven – Fade to Black

The only thing that made sense to Marlena was to check the authenticity of the recovered paintings. Sometimes when you keep asking why, you have to propose every plausible scenario until it sticks.  This angle stuck to her and hopefully the ISA could yield results soon.

Marlena sat in her new favorite spot, on a chaise in front of the fire. She had developed a thing about fireplaces lately. They helped her relax and unpack tons of information that she allowed to swim in her head all day.

It had been a full day.  A walk in the English Garden, Shane’s revelations about Anna Von Amberg and then John’s visceral reaction played in Marlena’s mind over and over again.  It was obvious that the deeper they got into this, the more conflicted John became.

John allowed the warm shower water to cascade down his face as he pondered what he had learned so far. He started to go back to step one and reanalyze things the way Doc would. He recalled Shane Donovan’s mention of recovered Alamain art during a heist. One of which was a chest that his blood sample was supposed to open, but it didn’t. Why? Was he not a true Alamain? Was he about to embark on yet another Journey to uncover his past?  The entire thing had his mind scrambled not to mention throbbing.

John entered the bedroom completely damp and naked. His chiseled chest glistened and his abdominals completely etched.  He was definitely an Adonis and a sight for sore eyes.

Marlena said nothing as John navigated through the bedroom searching for his pajamas. Clearly he was in a world of his own. He had managed to clear two drawers when he stopped in frustration.

“Doc, where are my flannel bottoms? They were here this morning. Damn it!” he growled.

Marlena didn’t have a chance to answer before John looked over at the bed and saw them already laid across his side with a nice pour of brandy. John looked at the pajamas, shook his head and smiled. Marlena knew him so well, sometimes better than he knew himself.

“How did you know?” asked John.

Marlena put her magazine down, since she never even read it and looked at her trouble husband. “It’s been chaotic since we left Seattle. I know how you unwind and figured you’d want your comforts,” she said.

There was nothing else to say. She wasn’t going to press him to find out what was bothering him. She wasn’t going to encourage him to talk shop, or about anything at all. John needed to find his center and she knew just how to help him do that.

Something about Marlena’s gesture broke John’s defenses a little bit more.  He knew that they didn’t keep secrets, but for some reason he was struggling with sharing why he was so pensive.  Part of him wanted to scream “Salem” from the highest mountain tops but someone felt compelled enough to shoot at him in broad daylight which meant leaving wasn’t going to make this go away.  There were secrets that someone didn’t want uncovered and they were willing to kill for it.

“Mind if I come join you?” asked John.

Marlena smiled and extended her hand beckoning him to lounge with her. She still never uttered a word. John took a sip of his brandy, grabbed a pillow from the bed and joined his wife. He placed the pillow on her lap and just laid there in silence watching the flames flicker.

“I see why you like to sit in front of the fire so much. It’s nice,” mumbled John.

Marlena rubbed his hair and his temples. “Just relax baby. Close your eyes and relax,” she whispered in a soothing tone.  It was almost like she was counting down during hypnosis. He needed this more than he realized. Somehow Marlena knew that he needed her presence, but not her counsel.  

John felt Marlena’s delicate touch along his neck. Her fingers travelled to the back of his head caressing the crown.  His eyes grew very heavy as he found himself fighting to stay awake. He was building up the courage to purge everything he was feeling, but he wasn’t ready yet. For a split second, he could smell the faint aroma of Marlena’s body lotion; a subtle hint of lavender. It relaxed him even more and before he realized it, he was fast asleep.

It was complete darkness, but John could hear The Blue Danube Waltz playing. Slowly but surely, he was starting to get his vision as small things in the room became clearer.  He was able to make out shadows of people dancing. He could make out women in large gowns drinking champagne while talking to others.

Suddenly he heard voices and tried to focus on what they were saying. They sounded like mumbles and various low conversations in a crowded room. Listening intently for key words, John tried to discern where he was and why he was there. 

Suddenly the music stopped along with the ambient chatter. The shadows were no longer dancing but focused to one direction of the room. John’s vision became a little sharper as he was now able to make out colors. Like everyone else, he focused his attention to the top of the room.  He couldn’t make out the face, but everyone looked at the entrance of someone wearing a red dress.

This was the farthest John had been able to get in weeks. He was more intrigued than ever to get information about where he was and what he was doing there. Suddenly a voice became clear, a very familiar voice.  

John listened closely and realized it was a man’s voice. Concentrating with all of his might, he tried to not only figure out why the voice sounded so familiar but what he was saying.  He felt himself walking closer and closer so that he could hear. As he approached, he could see more details of the red dress.  It was strapless with something sparkling along the bodice. 

As the voice spoke more, John’s pulse began to race.  His senses were on high alert, like a threat was near.  Somehow, John knew he was dreaming, but was determined to play this game for answers.  Adjusting himself in his dream, he could make out a few of the words.  He could also make out the voice.

“Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome our guest of honor, Princess Von Amberg,” said the male voice.

John tried to push through the crowd to improve his vision, but it was to no avail.  He moved as fast as he could to catch a glimpse of the princess, but it was too late.  Images were returning to shadows and he could no longer see colors.  Just before it all faded to black, John did get a glimpse of something that he couldn’t believe. The hand of the gentleman speaking, specifically his pinky finger which was adorned by a distinctive ring.  A ring he vividly recalled seen worn by Stefano DiMera.

John’s body jerked violently as he woke in a panic.  Still in front of the fireplace cradled in Marlena’s lap, he tried to adjust his eyes and process everything that his dream was about.  Now more perplexed than ever, John was completely rocked with the notion that Stefano could be part of all of this.

“Are you ok love?” ask Marlena. 

John sat up and popped his neck. “Yeah, I’m fine.  How long was I out?” asked John.

Marlena looked at her watch. “Not long, about 30-45 minutes.”

John jumped to his feet and grabbed his robe. “I’m going to check on the kids.  Follow up with security,” John said gruffly. 

Marlena watched pensively taking mental notes.  More than ever, she was watching something torment John and she didn’t know how much longer she could sit by and watch him suffer this way.  It was becoming more and more difficult.

When John returned to the room, Marlena was in bed with John’s side turned down. He looked at her and paused shaking his head while brandishing a smile.

“Everything ok?” asked Marlena. “Kids asleep and security alert?”

“Everything is perfect.  The night guards just clocked in. Well rested. Vigilant,” noted John.   

“Good. That means you can quiet your mind again and go back to sleep,” said Marlena.

The idea of going to sleep now was impossible at this point.  Not only was this Von Amberg mystery stressing him out, but the notion that Stefano DiMera could be part of this was adding a new chilling layer.

John sat on the edge of the bed almost afraid to rest.  Marlena crawled to the foot of the bed and began to massage John’s shoulders and kiss is neck. “Whatever it is, it will be there in the morning.  Come to bed,” encouraged Marlena. 

John melted just from feeling Marlena’s touch. It was a blessing but also his kryptonite.  She gave him strength but was clearly also his weakness. How could he have led her to a path that could cross Stefano DiMera? How was this protecting her and his family?

“Salem!” exclaimed John.

Marlena was completely lost and trying to catch up. “What about it?” she asked.

John turned to her and looked her in the eye and repeated himself. “Salem,” he whispered. 

Marlena then remembered the safe word. It was so abrupt and out of the blue, it took her a moment to register what he meant. She grabbed his face and cradled it. “Ok. Ok. I’m with you and whatever you want to do.”

She didn’t ask any questions, but Marlena intrinsically knew that John was over this a needed to get out. She wasn’t going to question him. She wasn’t going to fight him. She just wanted to make sure that he felt safe and knew that she was right beside him no matter what.

“I need you Doc,” said John almost broken.

Marlena held him tighter. “I’m here my love and I always will be. I can call for the plane now. Hell, we can fly commercial…”

“Just be with me. I need you,” he whispered as he kissed her. 

Marlena knew when John was in distress and didn’t support avoiding problems with sex, but in this particular situation she figured it was best.  He needed to escape whatever personal hell he’d imprisoned himself in. 

Marlena, on her knees at the foot of the bed, found herself face to face with John who was standing up before her. She tried to slow his kisses down and pursue a more tantric approach. Her hope was to not only distract John, but help him decompress.

John allowed himself to be led. He had absolutely nothing to prove. Marlena’s arms was the safest place in the world for him. She allowed him to be vulnerable. Afraid. Uncertain. Weak. 

Marlena began to speak into the small of John’s neck while lightly running her fingers down his face. “Did I tell you about my latest research?” she asked flirtatiously.

John didn’t say a word but grunted. 

“I’ve been reading up on tantric sex. The first thing we need to do is connect,” Marlena said as she slowly licked John’s neck. “I think we got that covered.”

Either John was completely broken and incapable of being dominant or he willfully submitted to Marlena.  Not once did he jump the gun and try to escalate their sensual interlude of foreplay. He followed her to an accent chair and allowed her to straddle him. She kept her panties on just as an extra barrier as John’s member sometimes had a mind of its own.

She could feel his rock-hardness through his flannel pajama bottoms; nearly escaping from his waistband. Her nightgown was well above her waist as she slowly moved her hips just enough to resemble a faint grind.  She could feel John’s body try to push against hers for more friction.

She then removed her gown exposing her pink erect nipples, pushing Johns face into her lavender scented cleavage. He slowly moved his hands down the sides of her face; then her shoulders. Cupping her breasts and taking them into his mouth, his hands slid down to her inner thighs. This was cheating on his part because that was clearly her zone.

Marlena allowed her neck to relax as she threw her head back to enjoy the sensation and the connection. It was about the intimacy and the exploratory journey to orgasm, not just the orgasm. As badly as she wanted to release with John, it was most important that she helped calm his mind. She reached her hand into his pajama bottoms and lightly fondled the tip of John’s throbbing penis. 

John took this as a sign to engage in love making but Marlena stopped him.

“Stay with me. Enjoy me. Follow me,” she whispered tucking is phallus back into its flannel cage.

“You are so wet.  Doc, I just need to be with you. Please,” begged John.

There was a level of desperation in his voice.  A tone she hadn’t heard since they’d first met years ago. It was that same lost sound and she felt it more than ever. Part of her wanted to address it, but it would break the flow of ascension. She had come too far to not get him over the next hurdle.

Marlena then removed John’s pajama bottoms freeing him. She then grabbed his pulsating manhood and began to guide just the head; grazing the outer part of her inviting heat while avoiding full penetration. But for loving John’s touch, Marlena wouldn’t be able to resist riding him. 

Picking up on Marlena’s direction to prolong orgasm, John refrained from entering her even though his tip was at the entry for the taking. Marlena held John’s penis in her hand while slowly guiding it up and down her moistened lips. His hands were now caressing the softness of her upper inner thighs. 

Suddenly, they stopped looking into each other’s eyes and simultaneously focused their attention to their versions of playful touch. Watching Marlena hold and control his penis with such precision was bringing John to the brink of climax before even entering her. 

Marlena watched John’s strong and masculine hands softly run up and down her inner thighs. Almost forgetting to control her own breathing, Marlena felt herself losing concentration. As much as she wanted to be nailed vigorously, Marlena resisted the urge to ram all 8 inches of John Black into her spine by way of her salivating mound. 

John felt the speed and intensity of Marlena’s fondling increase almost turning into a slight hand job right at her opening.  This went on for at least another 15 minutes when Marlena felt John’s muscles relax and his jaw unclench. 

Like kismet, they paused and looked into each other’s eyes and smiled.

“You felt it, didn’t you?” panted Marlena.

“I did and I am about to prove it,” moaned John.

John Black picked up Marlena slowly and carried her toward the bed and dropped her gently on the edge with her legs hanging off. Supporting her ankles, John slowly entered her and immediately felt her tight walls embrace his ramming penis.  Slow but forceful, John respected the sexual journey his wife had started and aimed to bring her home in similar fashion.

Mounting the love of his life with great care, John watched his hardness slide in and out of Marlena’s walls. He didn’t think he could get any harder, but watching her proved him wrong. Looking to catch his wife’s glare, John was beyond gratified to see the euphoric look in Marlena’s eyes.  It was a pre-orgasmic expression that he had never seen before.  It was controlled and strong, like she had been willfully holding back. And she was, for him. 

They were completely in tune with one another at this point.  All mental and spiritual connections had been made and they could sense what the other needed without question. There was no more talking, just intense eye contact and rhythmic pounding. The sounds of moist coital friction filled the room as their warm and needy bodies slammed into one another for comfort. 

There was no need to change positions as everything was in alignment to encourage the most earth-shattering orgasm known to man. 

“OH. MY. GOSH!” moaned Marlena. “Oh, shit. I’m about to come.”

John’s eyes rolled into the back of his head and completely exploded. It was a full body orgasm that seemed to be purging all of the negativity and weakness from his body.

“OH. DOC. DOC. DOC. Marlena!” screamed John.  His cries were loud enough to wake the dead. Marlena enjoyed the release while fearing security would be running in at any moment.

John’s dehydrated body collapsed on top of Marlena as he pushed his torso a few more times for good measure.  She caressed the small of his back and could completely feel the tension had dissipated. She was unsure for how long, but grateful that she had given him a moment’s peace. 

Marlena could feel John deflate inside her. She could only imagine how much of an explosion he had.

“Well if that didn’t implant twins, I am not sure what will,” joked Marlena.

“Baby, I came so hard, that would have to be triplets. If it was, I promise you can have the best epidural money can buy,” said John.

“And a mommy make over,” added Marlena.

Marlena woke up in John’s arms completely hung over from a night of intense intimacy and sensual love making. Hopeful that her efforts would carry over to today, she got up with the intension of booking them a return flight home. The only question was, did this include a stop in Salem? Was it a good idea with everything they had just been through?

John continued to sleep as Marlena began to pack their clothes. She then made her way to their adjoining office and gathered all of the files and images that she had been studying just the day before. She enjoyed her time as a sleuth, but it was time to get back to reality, whether it was in Seattle or Salem. Either way, she was prepared to be a wife, mother and psychiatrist. 

John finally woke to a fully dressed Marlena wrapping up a phone call. True to form, he had woken up and had his every whim completely catered to.

“Good morning gorgeous,” said John from across the room.

Marlena could tell that it was going to be a good day after seeing the light back in John’s eyes.

“You will be happy to know that I have taken care of our flight and wheels are up at 20:00. Is that how you say it?” asked Marlena.

John smiled fondly, “8 P.M. baby. It’s just 8 P.M. until I’ve had my coffee.”

Dedicated to spending a day of leisure with his family, John suggested taking the kids to the park for a bit of fresh air.  Now committed to wrapping this adventure up and going home, John seemed more relaxed and at peace.

Marlena knew he was experiencing the classic case of avoidance, but she was in no way going to suck the wind out of his sails by asking questions.  All of that would be revealed in time. She just had to trust her husband along with her gut.

John pushed Brady in a swing just a few yards away as Marlena, Mrs. Daniels and her assistant prepared lunch at a picnic table. It was an acceptable ending to this wild adventure.  As exciting as part of this cat and mouse game was, it wasn’t fun anymore.  Marlena didn’t want to live a life with security detail and fear. If john was willing to walk away from this, so was she.

“I must tell you both how much I have appreciated your help during all of this,” said Marlena.  “When we get back to Seattle, I want both of you to take some time off.  You’ve earned it and more.”

Mrs. Daniels’ assistant didn’t speak much. She just smiled and cuddled with Belle while sniffing her hair.

“This has been one of my better assignments,” said Mrs. Daniels. “When I learned that Mr. Black requested me specifically, I couldn’t decline.”

“Assignments?” joked Marlena. “It sounds so official. You delivered Belle for crying out loud. You care for the kids daily and take such wonderful care of us. That’s borderline family.”

For a fleeting second Marlena felt a twinge of emotion. It was finally dawning on her how much she missed Caroline Brady and Alice Horton. Those were the mother figures she had grown to love and revere.  Once she got back to Salem to see their faces and feel their love, maybe it would reinforce this second wind of optimism.

Marlena continued to chat about mundane things to Mrs. Daniels as they watched John play with Brady.  He truly was an attentive father. There was nothing John Black wouldn’t do for his family. 

Marlena noticed that she had somehow lost Mrs. Daniels attention half-way through their conversation.

“…Mrs. Daniels? Did you hear me?” asked Marlena.

Mrs. Daniels’ eyes were transfixed on a woman sitting near the playground reading the paper.

“Clearly she’s not here to watch the children play. Of all the places to read the paper,” Mrs. Daniels observed.

Marlena looked across the play yard and noticed the woman as well. “Maybe she loves the sounds of children playing.  I know when I thought about having kids, I’d go to the park and just watch them play,” said Marlena.

“That’s just it. You’d watch them play,” said Mrs. Daniels. 

Mrs. Daniels scanned the yard to get an idea of where security detail was positioned. She saw two nearby that blended in very well. 

“Is there something wrong Mrs. Daniels?” asked Marlena.

“Not at all Mrs. Black,” said Mrs. Daniels. She then looked at her assistant. “Give Belle to her mom and hand me my bag. Now please.”

The urgency in Mrs. Daniels’ voice was somewhat ominous and gave Marlena pause. 

Brady kicked his ball across the play yard in the direction of the woman reading the paper. John ran to retrieve it as the lady intercepted the ball and handed it to him. 

“Quel bébé mignon,” the woman said as she handed John the ball. 

“Sorry, my French is horrible,” replied John as he grabbed the ball. 

“You are American.  I was saying your baby is adorable,” added the lady. 

“Merci,” replied John. “I do know that much.”

“No Mr. Black.  Thank you,” the woman said in a menacing tone. She then injected John’s neck with a syringe. John looked at the woman in horror and grabbed his neck trying to process what had just happened.

Mrs. Daniels saw the exchange from across the yard and went on red alert. She signaled the nearest security guard to approach.  “Possible hostile at 12 o’clock!” 

“Who are you and what do you want?” asked John. 

“You have 24 hours to produce the Alamain Chest. You will be contacted with further instructions. You provide the box and you receive the antidote,” said the woman and in a flash a motorcycle appeared and whisked her away. 

It all happened so fast. The security officers rushed the scene, but it was too late.  John grabbed Brady into his arms in a haste and looked toward Marlena. “Take Brady and get my family out of here now!” commanded John. 

Marlena stood on the sidelines trying to piece together what she just saw.  A sense of panic took over as she motioned to approach the play yard but could see John waving her to stay back. 

“Mrs. Daniels, what’s happening?” asked Marlena in a panic. 

 “John has been attacked,” replied Mrs. Daniels. 

Suddenly, a black van appeared and loaded everyone except for John and his nearest detail. Mrs. Daniels took Brady from the security officer and handed him to Marlena.

“Get in the van now!” commanded Mrs. Daniels.

“I’m not leaving John!” exclaimed Marlena. She stood at the entrance of the van waiting for him to make his way to her, but he never came. 

John stood in the play yard looking at Marlena in the distance. His Doc. His love. His first thought was to run to her, but he had to keep his distance to keep his family safe. Suddenly, a shooting pain radiated through his head as he fell to his knees succumbing to the pain.

Marlena began to run toward John when she was held back and forced into the van.

“JOHN! No!” screamed Marlena. 

This was the last thing John Black heard before everything faded to black.

Chapter Eight – Black Ops

The ride back to the apartment was the most horrific journey Marlena had ever taken.  The kids were screaming, security was talking back and forth on the radio and Marlena was a mere shell of herself. It went against everything she believed in leaving John.  This was NOT part of the plan.  This did NOT honor the promise she made to him; to always be at his side.

“We need to go back,” said Marlena completely broken.

“We were given specific instructions to protect you and the children at all costs. Mr. Black couldn’t stress that enough,” replied the driver. 

“Well I’m Mrs. Black and in my husband’s absence, I will be directing security,” said Marlena curtly.  “Turn the damn van around!”

“Mrs. Black, please understand that as long as Mr. Black is still under our watch, we have strict instruction to follow his protocol.  Including extraction,” said the driver.

Mrs. Daniels grabbed Marlena’s hand and patted it gently.  “Breathe darling. It will be ok. This is standard procedure.  Mr. Black had to put distance between you until we can assess how imminent the danger is.” 

“I’m a doctor!  I can assess how imminent the danger is!” Marlena snapped. “I want Shane Donovan at the apartment waiting for me when I get there. THAT order, you will take. Am I clear?” asked Marlena. 

The two security officers looked at each other and knew Mrs. Black was a version of her husband and would not accept any form of mediocrity or insubordination. 

“Yes ma’am,” replied the driver. “I’m on it.”

Mrs. Daniels took the kids to their nurseries to get them settled and comforted. Marlena went to a now empty bedroom with only their packed bags sitting in the middle of the room.  Just hours ago, they were prepared to go home and leave all of this chaos behind.

“He said Salem,” sobbed Marlena. “He said Salem and I told him ok.”

Marlena stayed in her room for at least an hour sobbing, pacing and waiting for Shane. She had never felt so hopeless and alone.  She wanted to go hug her children, John’s children, to comfort them and somehow feel closer to him.

Marlena laid in a hospital bed attached to fetal monitors. At 6 months pregnant and under enormous stress, she’d began cramping after another confrontation with Sami. 

“Is there anyone I can call for you Dr. Evans?” asked the nurse.

“Yes, call Ro-,” she began and caught herself.  “Call John Black.”

John arrived in record time with panic and fear coursing through his veins.  If anything happened to Marlena or the baby, he could not be held responsible for the carnage and hell that he would bring to any and all.

He could recall the day so vividly that his life changed forever. He’d met with Marlena at the pub to discuss Titan business about a month after that infamous night on the Alamain jet. Knowing what she’d order, he took the liberty of having a bowl of Shawn Brady’s famous chowder waiting for her. 

She entered the pub looking tired and pale; not at all like her radiant and vibrant self.

“You ok Doc? You don’t look so good,” said John. 

“I’m fine.  I think I may have caught a bug or something.  I heard there was something going around at the hospital. After this, I’m going to go home and sleep it off,” she replied. 

“Well I ordered some chowder for you.  Maybe a little something to eat…,” began John.

Marlena caught a whiff of the chowder and felt the room spin and flop sweat ensue.

“Oh no…,” she said. “I think we need to reschedule this.  I’m going to go. I don’t feel so well.”

Now in the present, he saw her sitting alone in a hospital bed, pregnant with his child. It killed him to know she was trying to do this alone.

“Doc, what happened?” he asked rushing to her side.

Marlena was happy to see him. No matter what was going on, John being around made her feel safe, even when Roman was at her side. 

“I’m ok. I just got a little worked up.  The baby is fine.  I promise,” said Marlena. 

John looked at her growing belly exposed with the fetal monitors attached.  He wanted to caress her stomach so badly, but he knew it was an ambiguous time. 

John kissed her on the forehead and then looked at her stomach. “May I?” he asked.

Marlena smiled at any opportunity for John to touch her. “Of course,” she said invitingly.

John sat next to Marlena and put both of his hands on her stomach and began to talk to his growing child.

“Hey you.  It’s your daddy. As much as I can’t wait to hold you and kiss you, I need for you to hang out inside mommy for a little longer, but I promise you, daddy is going to make everything ok.  Especially if mommy doesn’t put up a fight,” said John.

“I am not going to put up a fight. I am going to rest and avoid all stress. You have my word,” assured Marlena. 

“Good,” said John. “Because I have an obligation to make sure my family is safe at all times.”

“I know that,” said Marlena.

“Good because I need for you to trust me,” John said.

Surprised that he would even question her faith in him, “Oh I do trust you,” replied Marlena.

“That’s all I needed to hear.  We leave Salem tonight.  I’m taking you away from this chaos to make sure our child is born in a stress-free environment. Give me three months to make things right and I promise you, that you will be protected and loved with all that I have.” 

John kept that promise, all the way down to the letter. Now Marlena sobbed in the middle of some bed in Munich, Germany alone with no idea what to do next. If she had just forced him to tell her why he was so tormented. If she had been just a little more…

The truth was, she knew there was nothing she could do but trust exactly what he told her time and time again “I need you to trust me”.

“I do my love.  With all my heart,” Marlena whispered to herself.

She closed her eyes, wiped the tears with the back of her hand and got out of bed. If she was about to pretend like she was in control, she had to look the part.  With every ounce of strength that she could muster, Marlena washed her face, applied fresh make up and changed her clothes.

Mrs. Daniels was setting the table when Marlena saw two place settings. She paused for a moment and smiled.

“Mr. Black should hurry. I don’t want his food to get cold,” said Mrs. Daniels optimistically.

“Great minds think alike. I was just thinking the same thing. Can you bring Brady’s highchair out as well? I think a family meal is well deserved tonight,” stated Marlena.

This positive thinking was helping, especially with Mrs. Daniels playing along.

“Was there any update from Shane?” asked Marlena. “Has John made contact?” 

“Not yet, but if memory serves, he’s in ISA custody being checked out. Routine blood work, scanning and cognitive evaluation. Usually takes about 2 hours,” said Mrs. Daniels matter of fact.

Marlena was completely intrigued with Mrs. Daniels’ knowledge about the process and procedures conducted by the ISA but let it go.

“What’s for lunch…dinner…what time is it?” asked Marlena completely confused.

“You know, I was thinking about how anxious you were to get home and figured a traditional American burger and fries would do,” said Mrs. Daniels.

“Please don’t toy with my emotions! Are you joking?” asked Marlena.

“And chocolate chip shakes…,” added Mrs. Daniels. “I’ll get the kids ready. Just breathe.”

Marlena forced a smile and nodded although she was dying inside. The only way to get control of this situation was to play the part. If she had to start making the decisions to protect her family, she needed to be the pillar of authority and confident.

Before Marlena could even talk herself out of this new mindset, Shane Donovan entered the room with Willows in tow. Her heart skipped a beat as she waited for John to bring up the rear. She held her breath and stared at the door for what seemed like an eternity, and he entered. John Black was back in Marlena’s grasp and she was never going to leave his side again. 

As relieved as Marlena was to see John’s face, she was completely immobilized with fear.  She wanted to run across the room and embrace him, but she knew she would break down. She just stood there and smiled.

“Hi!” she blurted out awkwardly. “Glad to see ya.”

John stood in the doorway with apologetic eyes. “Hi!”, he replied enthusiastically. “Sorry I’m late. Got held up.”

“Traffic?” asked Marlena.

“Just a bit, but I made it baby. I made it…,” he trailed off.

They stood there staring at each other for at least 15 seconds exchanging heartfelt expressions of relief and fear. Neither wanted to break down so they kept it light.

Marlena finally broke and ran over to him and just embraced him tightly damn near choking him and he reciprocated. It was almost like they were dancing to a song that only they could hear.

“Sorry for the delay Marlena. I know you were beside yourself. We just couldn’t advise until…,” started Shane.

Marlena didn’t care. She didn’t care to hear anything except the sound of John’s breath inhaling the intoxicating aroma of her lavender essence.

“Doc…,” whispered John.

Marlena refused to take an emotional journey right now. “Don’t.  Not now. Just freshen up for lunch, dinner, or supper,” rambled Marlena. “Mrs. Daniels has gone all out. A nice quiet dinner.”

Mrs. Daniels walked in with the children. Brady ran over to his daddy with his arms extended, “Daddy! Daddy! Daddy!” said Brady. 

Then Belle began to squeal.

“Well, a sorta quiet dinner,” Marlena corrected. 

John picked up Brady and hugged him tight and sniffed his hair. The thought of never holding him again made him choke up.  The only thing that held his tears back was Belle on the sidelines begging for her turn.

“Ok, ok. Bad daddy. It should have been ladies first,” cooed John as he picked up his baby girl. He kissed her and rocked her gently while wiping a tear. “We make them cute, don’t we?” 

Dinner was a success. Brady managed to feed the floor and Belle cried every time John tried to bite his burger. He was starving but it truly was the best meal he had since being in Europe. All the way down to the grease running down his arm and the straws collapsing from the force of trying to drink the perfect milkshake. 

John insisted on bathing the kids and putting them to bed. A day like today put a lot into perspective and he was aware that this moment was almost taken away from him. 

Marlena sat in her favorite spot, the chaise in front of the fire. No hot chocolate tonight. This was truly a brown liquor moment, but since she was still nursing, she opted for a small glass of wine. Of all the puzzles she was able to solve, trying to figure out how to talk to John was going to be a huge obstacle. 

John entered the room completely exhausted and exasperated. He kissed Marlena passionately and then headed off to shower away one of the longest days in history. He needed this time to get his thoughts together because he knew he had to have a conversation with his wife. 

John dried himself off slowly trying to prolong the inevitable. He felt as small twinge of pain in his head again, but not nearly as bad as it was before thanks to the ISA. With their finger on the pulse of new chemical weapons, they were able to identify and suppress the effects of what ever John was injected with.  

To his surprise Marlena was waiting up for him with his side of the bed turned down.  He was expecting her to be pacing outside of the bathroom door with a rolling pen prepared to let him have it.  The fact was, no one could beat John up more than he had done to himself. Hindsight was kicking him in the ass right now with a litany of teachable moments. 

John grabbed Marlena’s hand and led her back to the chaise in front of the fire and just hugged her for about 30 seconds.  He needed to just feel her.  Smell her. Touch her. 

Marlena was completely in tune with his pace. There was no need to jump into all the nuances right away. Them connecting right now was the best foundation they could possibly lay for the journey they were about to take. 

“I am so sorry Doc,” John began.

Marlena yielded the floor to him. Clearly, he had found the courage to purge and she was going to allow him to do it in the way he saw fit.

“I screwed up. I broke my promise to you, and I am sick inside for it. I should have told you months ago that I was starting to have these dreams.  I didn’t think much about it at the time because they didn’t mean much. Then Shane called about that stupid chest and I thought it would help bring some closure to all of these mysteries and gaping holes in my past. In my mind, I was trying to put a bow on our future by reconciling my past,” emoted John. 

If it was one thing Marlena knew how to do, it was to listen. John rambled on listing his thought process behind every decision he made. 

“The dreams I mentioned started becoming more frequent and confusing. Then we came across the name Von Amberg and I realized that the name was mentioned in a few of my dreams and it scared me. It opened up the very same Pandora’s Box I was fighting to close. I can’t even tell our kids what I was like as a kid, because I don’t remember,” said John solemnly.

Marlena’s heart ached for John. Not being able to recall his past was always going to be an issue that she was committed to helping him overcome.

“So here I am with the girl of my dreams and two beautiful kids wanting to provide this idyllic life and I see you sinking. You miss your family and friends. Your career. I saw a project that would give you some motivation,” said John. He grabbed his head in despair. “Then things just got out of control. Doc, I will NEVER keep anything from you ever again.  If I had just told you what I was feeling…”

Marlena had heard enough. It was only so much humility a man like John Black could have at one time before it became self-deprecating.   

“Thank you for telling me,” said Marlena. It was all that she could say.

She just hugged him and buried her face into the side of his neck.  She closed her eyes and just took all of him in. She ran her fingers through his damp hair and caressed the back of his head.

The plane ride from Salem to Seattle was memorable to say the least. Just hours prior, John had made the unanimous decision that he and Marlena were going to relocate temporarily to the west coast to give the fallout of the affair, pregnancy and divorce some much needed distance. Marlena, still torn and coming to grips that her family was broken, had agreed.

She had no idea what John had in store, but she did know that she needed refuge and a friend. Sure, it did appear that she’d absconded with her lover, but that couldn’t have been further from the truth. Marlena held John at bay until she could amicably resolve things with Roman and the kids. She knew their marriage was over but tried to exit with as much dignity as she could; albeit being pregnant with another man’s child.  It was definitely a scandal that she would have to live down for years to come. 

On the plane ride, John also shared that he had his legal team expedite Marlena’s divorce from Roman. She knew it was over and that there was nothing left to fight for, but she held out as long as she could.  It wasn’t that she didn’t want the divorce, it was the terms. Somehow, John seemed to get all of her conditions met and signed off by the judge.  Marlena Evans Brady was officially Marlena Evans once again.

While this freed Marlena to be with him, John knew it was too soon for that. He wasn’t going to push. He just wanted to make sure the baby was born healthy and that he was present for the duration of the pregnancy and birth.

The moment the Alamain jet left the Salem skies, the dark energy and turmoil seemed to stay just where Marlena had found it. For a fleeting moment, she felt hopeful that things would work themselves out. She and John were able to actually talk as life-long friends; something they tried to avoid in recent months because it always somehow crossed a line.  Now, there were no encumbrances. 

Realizing that they were having a platonic chat on the very seating that their baby was conceived on encouraged a fit of laughter that lasted at least 30 minutes. It was that deep laugh that made your stomach ache and bladder weak. 

It didn’t take long after that for the energy to change. Marlena knew John was acting as a friend, but they both knew it went so much deeper than that. She knew that home was were her family was and regardless of how it looked, that would always include John. This baby resting on her bladder had sealed that deal. 

Before the plane descended into Seattle, John and Marlena had the pilot take a slight detour and found themselves running in the rain down a Las Vegas strip rushing to get married. As illogical as it was, somehow it made perfect sense. She and John made sense and there was no denying that.

 It wasn’t a romantic event, but it was whimsical and careless- somewhat like this entire adventure. That’s what this was for Marlena, a new adventure. She had no idea how it was going to play out, but she knew in her heart that it was going to be ok.

They said their vows and meant them. They pecked each other on the lips at the end of the ceremony and laughed holding hands while walking out of the quaint little chapel into a warm monsoon rain. John flagged the car down to get them back to the airport, but there was something cathartic about the warm showers rinsing away all of the hurt and confusion.

Drenched to the bone, John and Marlena walked hand in hand like tourists down the strip when they found themselves in front of the Paris Hotel. It was a foreshadowing moment, because at that very second, the rain stopped, and the sun began to shine. It was something about the way the sunlight hit John’s face that made her feel compelled to kiss him. It was the first time in ages that she ran her fingers through his damp hair and caressed the back of his neck.

Back to square one, Marlena found herself falling more hopelessly in love with this man as she ran her fingers through his damp hair. Every day was going to be an adventure with John Black, because that was his promise and something she craved.

It was a sexless night packed with more intimacy than most couples see in a lifetime. Marlena slept cuddled with Brady while John slept on the chaise all night holding Belle. Miraculously, the kids slept through the night without incident.

It was a new day in Munich and with plans to leave hanging in the air.  Marlena and John woke up just happy to be together.

“Salem,” said Marlena.

“Salem,” confirmed John. “Once we clear this last thing up, we will gladly get the hell out of here.”

Mrs. Daniels had breakfast ready for John and Marlena, this time a table set for two. While devouring the best omelet she’d ever had, Marlena felt it was safe to talk shop.

“So, where are we? What are we doing? What’s going on?” asked Marlena.

“I have no idea,” said John. “We are still waiting on direction from whomever has unleashed hell on me, and I am willing to play this out if you agree.”

“I agree with more rules. I need you to include me on things,” said Marlena.

John nodded approvingly. “100% and to the best of my knowledge, I have told you everything I know so far,” he said.

“I do have a question. How did you find Mrs. Daniels?” asked Marlena. 

“Something wrong?” asked John. 

“Not at all. I love her! She’s just…,” Marlena said searching for words, “More experienced than I could have imagined. What’s her story?”

Mrs. Daniels entered the room on cue.

“Ask her yourself,” said John.

On the spot, Marlena came face to face with Mrs. Daniels, the kind woman that could be very best friends with Caroline Brady. Marlena poured Mrs. Daniels a cup of coffee and asked her to have a seat and she happily obliged.

“I just want to thank you again for the amount of support you have given with the kids, our family. Yesterday was a day I hope to never relive again. You were remarkably kind and so on point with keeping me calm, or as calm as I could possibly be,” began Marlena. 

“Frankly, I get the sense that your past experiences prepared you somehow. Is that something you feel comfortable sharing with me?” asked Marlena. 

Mrs. Daniels looked over to John for approval.  He nonchalantly bit his bacon and replied, “I have no secrets from my wife.”

“Retired ISA Agent 2529 Minerva Daniels. Codename: The Fixer. Retired in 1984 to take up baking and start a family,” said Mrs. Daniels proudly.

Marlena smiled and patted her hand. “I always felt safe leaving my kids with you. I now know why,” she said.  

Just then the phone rang, and John answered.

“John Black,” he said.

“Bonjour Mr. Black. Are you ready to play?” asked the woman.

It was the offender that attacked John in the park. He immediately hit a switch to trace the call and signaled Marlena and Mrs. Daniels and then put the call on speaker.

“What do you want?” asked John.

“Don’t be coy. I want the chest. If memory serves, you have less than 6 hours until it starts to get messy. How’s the head?” asked the French woman.

“I have your chest, but I need the antidote first or no deal,” said John.

The French woman laughed in John’s ear. “You do not have the positioning to make demands Monsieur Black. The chest at sunset. The Englischer Garten. Leave it at the Monopteros and walk away. No tricks. Once you leave the chest, you will receive the location of the antidote.”

She hung up the phone without giving John the chance to rebuttal. John immediately called Shane to make sure they got a clean trace on the call. After a few seconds, he gave Marlena and Mrs. Daniels the thumbs up.

“So, what is the plan,” asked Marlena.

“We have our team watching the drop spot and entry points to the park. I am going to drop off the chest and hope to catch this lunatic and get some answers,” said John.

“Honey leave the questioning to me.  Once I get my hands on her, I’m going to snap her f*cking neck!” fired Marlena. 

Chapter Nine – Doing it Nice in Nice

Paris, France was a destination that tourist dreamed about. The romance.  The art. The museums. The fashion. If you had access to such things; Paris was a wonderland. For the impoverished, not so much.

A young Eugenia Strauss walked pass these destinations daily on her way to one of her many jobs. As a retail clerk in a boutique during the day, she would find herself sketching beautiful ball gowns dreaming to wear them one day.  

While minding the store on a slow afternoon, Eugenia decided to organize the storage room and found an old box of notes, sketches and articles about fashion spanning over years. What garnered her attention the most was an intriguing article about the rise and fall of a textile’s maven named Anna Von Amberg. 

She was described as a formidable businesswoman that was part of the social elite for years until one day she vanished without a trace. Leaving no heirs or clues to her disappearance, her empire was dissolved, and her existence became a faded memory.  The only additional information Eugenia could find was that she was linked to a major art heist conspiracy that was never proven.

Eugenia became obsessed with the story of Anna Von Amberg, but with a cold trail, she was left with having to embellish the missing parts of the story. Growing up in an orphanage, Eugenia was no stranger to dreaming.  It is what she did to make the time pass. 

It wasn’t long before Eugenia had rewritten Anna’s story and made it part of her own. Reinventing herself, she crafted an alter ego in hopes of creating the person she always wanted to be; a regal and prominent woman with aristocratic ties. 

After working tirelessly for months on a plan to introduce herself to society, Eugenia had finally concocted the perfect new life. No longer the poor orphan who swept floors and waited tables to make ends meet, Eugenia had found a way to get on a prestigious guest list for a party at the Louvre. 

There she was, standing in the Louvre drinking a glass of champagne. Eugenia had made it to the other side, and it was now time to present herself to society.  Dressed in a beautiful red ballgown that she scraped to get the fabric and crystals for, Eugenia fit right in. 

“A beautiful night,” said the charming man.

“It is indeed,” replied Eugenia. “But most of the parties here are.”

“I wouldn’t know as I’ve never attended an event here before,” said the man.

“Well, they are spectacular,” said Eugenia embracing her character. 

Somehow, being a different person was easier than Eugenia thought. Having fantasized about this moment all her life, the lies just rolled off her tongue with ease.

A waiter passed with a full tray of champagne and Eugenia helped herself to another glass.

“I see you are a fan of the champagne, yes?” asked the gentleman. 

Eugenia, a little light-headed from the first glass did appreciate the crisp effervescent libation. If this was what the wealthy lived like, she would stop at nothing to be a part of this secret society.

After a few moments of small talk, Eugenia was faced with one question that she hadn’t created an answer to. 

“Forgive me, I didn’t get your name,” asked the gentleman.

Eugenia took a dramatic pause and pondered the question while sipping her champagne.

“The name is Von Amberg. Gina Von Amberg,” said Eugenia. And it was at that moment that Eugenia Strauss vanished into thin air, just like Anna Von Amberg did so many years ago.  The only difference was, she was here to stay.

The gentleman rubbed his chin and smiled.

“And I didn’t catch your name,” said the newly emerged Gina.

“I never threw it,” said the gentleman and then he walked off to enjoy the party.

The last 48 hours had been a whirlwind of events. The drop off of the mysterious chest at the Monopteros went off without a hitch. John left the box exactly where he was told and received a call where to find the antidote.  He wasn’t surprised to find that the antidote was more lethal than the original injection. His phantom adversary had already proven to lack honor.

Luckily, the person who retrieved the box was tailed and apprehended, but to Shane and John’s surprise; their foe was one step ahead of them.  The box in transit was a decoy which meant the original was still at the Monopteros. When they doubled back, it was gone. 

It was a wrinkle in the plan, but there was still another play in action; 2 small tracers embedded in the chest was enough to keep hope alive. As anticipated, one was found and destroyed, but the back-up was pinging nice and strong.

John and Marlena sat on the Alamain jet hand in hand. Still not completely done with the ever-unfolding events, they hoped this short flight would be their last before returning home.

“Are you sure about this honey?” asked John.

Marlena was positive that they had to see this through.  Someone tried to assassinate John twice and they had to quash this, or she was certain there would be a third time. 

“I am positive.  Victor and Caroline will meet us in Nice, France and take the kids back to Salem. We need to wrap this up in 48 hours because that’s how long I’m willing to be away from the babies,” assured Marlena. 

Marlena kissed the back of John’s hand and he winced in pain.

“Oh honey, I’m sorry. Did you need more ice for your hand?” asked Marlena.

John didn’t need ice, he needed answers and he had the privilege of working the guy who was apprehended completely over.  John suspected that he may have slipped into mercenary mode, but that was only him digging deep to nip this in the bud.

“I am fine. I’m great! I have my girl. I have my beautiful kids and couldn’t ask for anything more,” said John lying to himself.

As much as John wanted to believe what he’d just said, he also knew that all of this was stirring up old feelings about his past.  A past that he yearned to know.

So far, all that John knew was that the guy he’d beaten to a pulp was hired to pick up a box and walk around with it until further notice.  The poor bastard didn’t realize further notice meant being beaten to a pulp in the back of an ISA van. 

John rested his head on Marlena’s shoulder and tried to quiet his mind. It wasn’t long before he found himself falling into a deep sleep. 

John stood across the ball room and could hear The Blue Danube Waltz playing.  He was in the same dream he’d had before, but things were much clearer. He could make out faces and vividly recall what was going on.  It was a charity auction at the Louvre. 

The music stopped and the attention was directed to the main entrance of the room. John recalled being here before. This time he was prepared to absorb every detail like a reporter covering a hot story.  Hiding in the shadows of the room, John tried to move closer to the activity to get a glimpse of the main attraction.

“Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome our guest of honor, Princess Von Amberg,” said the male voice.

That voice was more familiar than ever. John could only see the back of his head. It was a larger man with dark hair and a distinguished accent. 

Princess Von Amberg was the woman in the red strapless ballgown with the sparkling Swarovski crystals across the bodice, just as he’d seen before.  The man that introduced her reached for her hand and it is when John got another glimpse of the distinguished pinky ring.

As the man turned around, to John’s horror it was Stefano DiMera! So close to getting to the bottom of this dream, John tried to stay in the moment, but he could hear Marlena calling in the distance.  He tried to ignore her voice because it started to make the vision darken. 

“Not yet Doc!” he tried to say, but the words wouldn’t come out.

John’s body jumped when Marlena woke him. He took a minute to get his bearings and realized he could recall details from his dream.

“Doc! I remember something. I saw faces this time,” said John.  While he didn’t want to get Marlena entangled with Stefano or his mysterious past, he had to honor his promise to share everything.

“Ok, tell me. What did you see?” probed Marlena.

John got up to stretch his legs and pour himself a cup of coffee.  Marlena knew he was stalling and preparing to reveal something monumental. She immediately felt afraid and flushed with fever. She could feel a lump building in her throat as her palms began to sweat.  The last time she felt this type of pending doom was on that fateful day Roman discovered the affair.

After a queasy and abrupt lunch at the pub with John, Marlena found herself vomiting uncontrollably for the rest of the evening. 

“Please let this be a virus,” she prayed as she toyed with the notion that she could be pregnant.

After days of what felt like nonstop seasickness, Marlena opted to try a home pregnancy test. Once she saw the positive result, she knew this couldn’t be justified. There was absolutely no doubt that John was the father.

Just to confirm her suspicions, she had blood work and an ultrasound done privately at the hospital.

“Thank you, Lexie,” said Marlena. “I would appreciate it if you could keep this between us. Just for now.”

Lexie handed Marlena a printout of the ultrasound, but she couldn’t bring herself to look at it right away. She just took it and held it over her heart.

“It looks like you are about 6 weeks,” said Lexie.

They both looked at each other knowing very well that Roman and Abe were working together and returned to Salem at the same time.

“Yeah,” said Marlena. “Six weeks sounds about right.”

Marlena held it together long enough for Lexie to leave the room. The moment the door closed; Marlena burst into uncontrollable tears. She wept so hard that she couldn’t even catch her breath.  She managed to collect herself and make her way back to her office.

She sat at her desk staring at the image of the ultrasound in complete shock.  She was shocked that she was shocked, if that made any sense.  They hadn’t used protection and got swept up in the moment. Marlena looked at the image once more and kissed it. 

Suddenly without warning, John knocked and stuck his head in the door; full of smiles and completely unaware that their lives were about to be turned upside down.

“Hey Doc. Your secretary said you were in. How are you feeling?” asked John.

Marlena’s expression was like a deer in headlights.  Her eyes still red and swollen from her earlier meltdown, she tried to conceal her emotions.

“Hi! I’m fine. What brings you by?” said Marlena trying to lighten her mood. 

John knew immediately that Marlena wasn’t ok.  He felt her angst in his soul and confirmed it when he looked into her eyes.

“Something kept telling me to stop by and check on you. Now I’m glad I listened. You’ve been crying. Doc, what’s wrong?” asked John.

Marlena stared at John for at least 15 seconds before she said a word. Then she brandished a faint smile. 

“I am going to show you something, but I don’t want to talk about it. At least not right now,” Marlena began. “I need time to process it all but…”

John knew whatever Marlena had to share was serious and he braced himself for whatever she was about to show him.

“This sounds serious,” said John as he took a seat on the sofa.

Marlena paused and then started to laugh and then cry. “I’m sorry. I’m all over the place. I think I just got good news.  Maybe great news? Scary news? Life altering news,” Marlena rambled. 

Without giving it more thought, she blurted it out and handed John the ultrasound, “Here’s a picture…of your kid.” 

Snapping back to the present, Marlena tried to suppress the ominous feeling. 

“We’ve had predicaments before.  Tell me, and whatever it is, we will work it out,” said Marlena. 

John purged every detail that he could recall from his dreams. He knew that Marlena could help him make sense of it all.

“And the worst of it is, I think Stefano is behind all of this,” said John.

It was the last thing Marlena wanted to hear, but she kept a stiff upper lip.

“We don’t know if Stefano is behind this, but if he is, we will beat him. We always have. And we will do it again,” declared Marlena.

The Alamain jet taxied into a private hanger in Nice, France.  To Marlena’s surprise, Caroline was standing on the side with Victor in anticipation of their arrival.

Marlena stepped off the plane holding Belle with John and Brady bringing up the rear. Seeing Caroline’s face in anticipation of meeting Belle for the first time made Marlena’s heart smile. 

“I have missed you so much Caroline,” said Marlena as she wept with joy. “I would love for you to meet Belle.”

Caroline grabbed Belle in her arms and blanketed her with a grandmother’s love.  Although, there was no genetic link, Caroline felt no different in her heart.

“She’s beautiful!  A perfect blend of Sami and Brady,” rejoiced Caroline. 

John and Marlena used their reunion with Victor and Caroline wisely, having separate private counsel with each of them sharing all the recent events since leaving Salem. They both needed a new ear to bend. It was comforting and most cathartic. 

Shortly after, Victor and Caroline boarded the Alamain jet with Belle, Brady and Mrs. Daniels in tow. Marlena’s heart began to ache as she prepared to nurse Belle one last time before parting ways.

“I shouldn’t be leaving my baby. She’s a newborn,” said Marlena having second thoughts. But she knew the only way she and John could have peace, was to thwart the devious plans of their phantom adversary.

Marlena sat in the back seat of the town car until the Alamain jet took off safely and disappeared into the cloudy skies. There was a sense of relief mixed with despair; as she wanted her kids out of harm’s way but also with her.  Sadly, the circumstances didn’t allow both to coexist.

John patted Marlena’s hand as they sped off to rendezvous with Shane and Willows. 48 hours. This needed to be wrapped up in 48 hours.

“So, these dreams,” started Marlena. “Do you think they are real?  Do you think you are starting to remember your past?”

John had no idea, but he was certain that they felt real. How else could he explain all the déjà vu? The visceral reaction to the name Von Amberg. It was the only logical explanation. He grabbed his head as the dull throbbing started.

“Is it your head again?  Are we sure the antidote the ISA gave you worked?” asked Marlena with concern.

“I’m positive that is no longer an issue. I think it’s just from me trying to put all of this together,” said John.  “It’s a lot to put together.”

“And that is precisely why I’m here.  Don’t forget, you hired me to solve this enigma, unless you are firing me?” queried Marlena. “My track record speaks for itself, ya know.”

John grabbed her hand and kissed it. “It does and I wouldn’t have gotten this far without you. Which reminds me, you never gave me your rate,” added John.

Marlena gave a cheeky grin and leaned in for a kiss. “I think we can negotiate on some fair terms,” she whispered. 

It felt like ages since John and Marlena were able to steal a moment and connect intimately.  It wasn’t about the sex, although stellar every time. It was about being able to hit a reset button allowing them to recalibrate and start at the same place at the same time. 

For a brief moment, they’d forgotten that they were in the back seat with a driver just inches from them. Exploring Marlena’s mouth with his tongue, John found himself getting lost in her essence.  It was something about Marlena Evans Black that made him jump in head and heart first.

Marlena found the strength to hold John at bay, but not for long.

“How long until we are at the hotel?” whispered Marlena.

“Driver, how long until I can make love to my wife?” asked John sarcastically. 

Blushed with embarrassment, Marlena punched John in his arm. “Stop it!” she said. 

 “On a serious note, I’ve been thinking since we left Munich.  I want you to hypnotize me again.  I’m so close and I really think it would help if I could dig deeper into these dreams,” suggested John. 

Marlena could sense John’s hesitance. “I’ll do anything you ask. You know that,” she said softly. “And whatever WE find, WE will handle it together. Deal?”

John asked himself a million times a day what he’d done to deserve Marlena.  Whatever was in his past mustn’t have been too bad, at least that is what he told himself.

John and Marlena arrived at the Hotel Le Negresco ready to work.  Ironically, they had arrived just in time for Carnaval de Nice, although there would be very little time to indulge.  If nothing else, it added a backdrop to why they were in town.

The Blacks managed to check in, get their messages and receive their luggage without incident. 

“Shane and Willow’s will be here in 2 hours,” said John. “What do you suppose we can do to kill time?” 

Marlena licked her lips and smiled. “How about a game of Yahtzee?” joked Marlena.

“Yahtzee? I don’t think I’ve ever played Yahtzee,” said John as he moved in for a kiss. “I was thinking more along the lines of strip poker…minus the poker.”  

“Well in that case, I’ll bet you an orgasm and a back rub, that you’ll come before me,” flirted Marlena.

“Hmm, I’ll call and raise you with oral pleasure. Anytime. Anyplace,” said John upping the ante. 

Like hormonal teenagers, they ravaged each other without getting completely undressed. Moving her lace panties to the side for instant access, John raised Marlena’s skirt above her waist, pinned her against the window and went to town. Thrusting vigorously, he felt himself getting completely consumed.

“How is it that I fall more and more in love with you every day?” moaned John.  “The more I have of you, the more I want you.”

“And more you shall have,” replied Marlena as she wrapped her legs around John’s waist. 

John was right. The more Marlena got, the more she wanted.  He was her love drug and she would do anything with him and for him. No questions asked.

As the sun began to set over the Nice sky, Marlena’s scantily clad backside could be seen pushed against the hotel window overlooking the Bay of Angels.  John placed his hands against the window on each side of her head and drilled her slowly while losing himself in her brilliant hazel eyes.

Exhibitionism was not on Marlena’s to-do list, but there was something about the power of John Black.  Even when she tried to resist him during her marriage to Roman, it was impossible.  A glance became a stare. A handshake became a hug. A peck became mind-blowing sex on a leer jet.  Her body had an inexplicable response to him.  

“Oh my gosh you feel so good. What you do to me,” purred Marlena. She moaned unapologetically for all of France to hear.

The sounds of her muffled cries turned John on even more. Slipping the top of Marlena’s dress down exposing her perfect breasts, he took them into his mouth as he felt himself approaching his peak. Her moistness beckoned him to go deeper. Caught in the rapture of love making, John carried Marlena over to the desk and preceded to massage her inner walls even further.

Something had gotten into John Black and Marlena Evans Black was here for it. Drunk with passion, Marlena felt the room begin to spin. She closed her eyes and allowed John to explore and take advantage of every inch of her yearning flesh.  

There was something forbidden about this sexual interlude. It was laced with lust and desire, the type of energy that took over them on the Alamain jet that fateful night. Marlena’s once neatly coiffed tresses where now stuck to her face, her mascara smeared across her cheeks.

John’s tongue swirled around Marlena’s with force and precision. Pulling back ever so slightly, he suckled her bottom lip before redirecting his efforts to licking her neck all the way down to her navel. 

Marlena arched her back in anticipation of what came next. John spread her legs as wide as he could to examine his bountiful feast. He teasingly ran his tongue up and down her inner thigh allowing his warm and heavy breath to announce his arrival. Taking the tip of his finger, he lightly brushed against her clit priming her for what was in store.

Marlena could feel her mound salivating in anticipation. She forcefully grabbed the back of John’s head and pushed his face into her pulsating promise land. There was something sexually gratifying about watching him look into her eyes as he lapped up the flavor between her legs. 

With the utmost attention to detail, John didn’t miss a beat. His cunnilingus gave the perfect amount of pressure and dedication with an extra helping of kink. 

Marlena felt her temperature rise as she tried to suppress her pending orgasm. “GET IN ME NOW!” she commanded.

John bent her over the desk and proceeded to take his wife from behind. As he plunged in and out, he could feel Marlena’s walls start to contract around his shaft.  Reaching his hand between her thighs, he rubbed her clit for extra credit. 

“Don’t stop,” begged Marlena. Her legs grew weak as her eyes rolled back in her head. John was hitting that spot that sent waves of ecstasy through her soul. She was now in that short window were she would do any freaky thing John would ask her to do.

Losing control, Marlena’s body gave in. Gripping the edge of the desk, she took all that John gave as her body shuddered and convulsed uncontrollably. 

Like the consummate gentleman, John believed in ladies first. While feeling his bride climax, he came simultaneously abandoning the last minute urge to pull out.

“Damn woman,” said John as he collapsed on her back. “You are insatiable.”

Marlena came so hard that she got a headache. She laid face down on the desk with her hair covering her passion-filled expression. She could feel John deflating inside her; a trail of his passion running down her leg.

John took a deep inhale of Marlena’s hair and softly kissed the back of her neck. He then helped her up and turned her around and kissed her passionately.

“A hot shower featuring round two?” asked John.

Marlena smiled and happily oblige.

The spacious showers in the Hotel Le Negresco suite didn’t disappoint. With the perfect water pressure and teak seating, John and Marlena made themselves at home. A steamy shower after mind blowing sex was always the best.

“As wonderful as this is, we have work to do,” said Marlena.

John knew all too well that there was a lot more in store for their adventure, but being close to Marlena gave him a surge of energy and strength; qualities necessary to get through this in one piece.

“Just a little longer,” said John. “I just want to be in this moment with you for a few more minutes.”

Marlena kissed John passionately and pushed him under the running water. She knew she was a vital energy source for him and would stop at nothing to keep his love tank full.

They made love again in the shower with the help of a very sturdy teak bench. With Marlena on top this time, John was able to relax and enjoy his wife taking control. She sat on his lap facing him while grabbing his wet hair and kissing him passionately. Eye contact during sex always added an extra level of intimacy that Marlena craved. 

While caressing her breasts, John buried his face in Marlena’s neck and enjoyed the sensation of her riding him slowly. If he could live in this moment forever, he would and after they resolved this situation; that is exactly what John intended to so. 

Shane and Willows arrived with fresh and intriguing updates bringing them one step closer to getting to the bottom of this.

“So, the guy that took the box knew a little more than he mentioned before,” began Shane. “Are you familiar with the name Lili Faversham?”

John thought long and hard, but did not recall ever hearing the name. 

Marlena took the dossier from Shane’s hand and started reading the contents while pacing back and forth.  Waiting for her to resurface with another nugget of information, the group watched her intensely. Marlena paused for a moment and looked at the ceiling as if the answers were there.

“John, I think before we discuss anything else, I need to put you under hypnosis. I don’t want you to read this or discuss this anymore until after I tap into your thoughts. Are you ok with that?” asked Marlena.

“You think it will help?” asked John.

“After reading this, I believe it will,” she replied.

Marlena wrote a list of questions for Shane and Willows to verify while she put John under. She had 48 hours to get to the bottom of this and failure wasn’t an option.

John laid on the sofa and began to clear his mind. More than familiar with the process, he began to relax his muscles and purge all thoughts.  Concentrating on Marlena’s voice, John didn’t take long to get into character.

“John, let’s go back to the ballroom. I want you to go there and relax. Enjoy yourself. What do you see?” asked Marlena.

John stood in front of a painting observing every detail when he noticed a woman also entranced with the same artwork.

“A beautiful night,” said John.

“It is indeed,” replied Gina. “But most of the parties here are.”

“I wouldn’t know as I’ve never attended an event here before,” said John.

“Well, they are spectacular,” said Gina. 

A waiter passed with a full tray of champagne and Gina helped herself to another glass.

“I see you are a fan of the champagne, yes?” asked John. 

“You could say I’ve developed a taste for it. 

“Forgive me, I didn’t get your name,” asked John.

 “The name is Von Amberg. Gina Von Amberg,” she said.

John rubbed his chin and smiled.

“And I didn’t catch your name,” said Gina.

“I never threw it,” said John.

The party continued to flow without anything memorable taking place. Suddenly a waiter approached John who seemed to know him.

“Everything is in place sir. Let the fireworks begin,” said the waiter.

John took an hors d’oeuvre from the tray as room’s attention was called. 

“Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome our guest of honor, Princess Von Amberg,” said Stefano.

John watched Princess Gina enter the room garnering the attention of all of the guests. 

“We would like to thank Princess Von Amberg for her donation of the Renoir to our auction. Her family has been most gracious.”

The fanfare ensued for some time when all of the sudden, an alarm was tripped sending the room into high alert. Security began to scramble protecting the artworks on display and locking down all areas of the museum.

John immediately looked around the room and Stefano and Gina were nowhere to be found. Cruising the perimeter of the room and asking other attendees about what was going on, John saw the waiter that had spoken to him earlier.

“I see the fireworks have begun,” said John. “How is everything going?

“According the plan sir. The switch has been completed and we should be back in 5, 4, 3, 2…,” counted the waiter.

Stefano then reappeared at the top of the room. “Ladies and gentleman, please forgive the disruption. Everything is ok. Our friend here got a little too close to the Monet and tripped the alarm,” pointing to Gina.

Gina waved apologetically to the crowd. “My faux pas. I am so sorry.  Please start the music,” encouraged Gina. 

“Like I said, without a hitch. You better be getting out of here soon.  I just heard them say that they’ve made the switch and we now have the original Rembrandt loaded in the van. Mr. DiMera says he will be in touch,” said the waiter as he handed John and envelope. 

John took the envelope and opened it. It was a map or blueprints but he couldn’t make of it. As he stared at the papers, the words began to fade and the room grew darker. Struggling to stay in the moment, John tried to will himself to remain in the dream. He was so close, but it faded away.

John opened his eyes and blinked a few times. Collecting himself from being under longer than usual, he was slightly agitated and flustered. 

“John. Can you hear me?” asked Marlena. 

John shook his head and sat up holding his head. “Yeah Doc, I hear you.  How did I do?” asked John.

Marlena stood before him and grabbed his shoulders. “You did terrific!” she exclaimed.

John had no recollection of what he shared that was so different than before, but the elation in Marlena’s eyes indicated that she had found yet another nugget.

“What did you find?” asked John.

Marlena hugged John tightly and caressed the back of his head.

“I am so proud of you John Black. You are the bravest and kindest man I know and I am better for having you in my life,” said Marlena.

John had no idea what precipitated this, but a compliment with a hug from Marlena was always a good thing. Her embrace calmed him significantly and brought him back less the discomfort.

“Go get some fresh air and I’ll call Shane and Willows so that we can wrap this up,” said Marlena with a big smile.

“You mean you got it? You know who’s after me and why?” asked John.

“Not exactly, but I think I know enough to get us to the end. I have a taste for one of those pastries downstairs. Why don’t you grab one for me and I’ll be ready to explain everything,” said Marlena.

John kissed his wife, grabbed his room key and went downstairs. He felt hopeful and close to freedom which put a pep in his step. On his way to the pastry shop, John saw a vender selling flowers and bought a red rose for his bride. He inhaled the fragrant aroma and smiled because it made him think of her.

“You always were a hopeless romantic,” said the familiar voice. 

John turned around and found himself face to face with the woman haunting his dreams. It was Gina Von Amberg in the flesh. Completely thrown, but trying to keep his head in the game, John didn’t flinch.

“So, we finally meet,” said John.

“Hmm, I would call this more of a reunion. Don’t you think?” ask Gina.   

“Why have you declared war on me? What do you want and why do you want me dead?” asked John.

“Oh, John. I never wanted you dead. I just wanted to get your attention.  You seemed to be infatuated with your precious Marlena is it?” asked Gina as she sniffed the rose in John’s hand. 

“You shot at me and had me poisoned lady,” said John sternly.

“Oh please. You weren’t even hit. They were blanks! I would have expected you to know that. But in fairness, we did toss a few casings at the scene to confuse your ISA friends,” teased Gina.

John was shocked to realize how much Gina actually knew, but refused to flinch.

“And the injection. Yeah, that was a gamble, but you persevered! I knew once you locked arms with the ISA, they would be able to help you out. Since you are in Nice, it is safe to say they did,” added Gina.

“What do you want, lady?” said John getting down to business. “I can’t open the box and you have it so can we just call it a day?”

Gina walked around John sizing him up and smirking. “Wow, Steffy really did a number on you,” she said as she approached him and looked deeply into his eyes. “I’m about to make you an offer you can’t refuse.”

Chapter Ten – The Finale

Gina had not only made John an offer that he couldn’t refuse, but she’d also managed to create a distraction so that she could vanish in to thin air.  If she’d learned nothing else from the clenches of Stefano DiMera, she mastered the art of being illusive.  

John walked around the area in hopes of catching a glimpse of where Gina had gone, but it was to no avail. Now he was left with the burden of having to strategize. He hastily made his way back to the hotel suite with just the rose in tow, not even a logical explanation to what had just transpired.

Marlena paced back and forth having a much needed one on one with Shane. She had wanted to have this conversation before, but there was never any time. From the time they left Seattle, it had been one catastrophe after another.

“Shane, I need you to level with me. Where are we and what do we know so far?” asked Marlena as she paced back and forth.

“Well, we know that Gina has the chest and according to the tracer, it is here in Nice. We can’t seem to isolate where exactly, but we are within 2 miles of proximity,” said Shane.

Marlena was completely thrown. “Your transmitters can’t narrow down a more specific proximity? 2 miles is a lot of space to cover,” she asked impatiently. “The decoy was destroyed, and we are relying on the backup. We are looking for a needle in a haystack. What’s our play?”

It was at that moment that John returned to the suite, his face now covered with confusion and uncertainty. 

“Our play is, we need to be in Paris day after tomorrow,” announced John.  “Guess who paid me a visit?”

“DiMera?” asked Shane.

Marlena looked at the single rose in John’s hand. It wasn’t uncommon for him to return from a stroll with a trinket of his affection. What she did find odd, was that John no longer realized that he was carrying the rose and had completely forgotten about the pastries. 

“No, it was her. It was Gina, wasn’t it?” asked Marlena. She walked over to John and took the rose from his hand and smelled it. “Let me guess, you were on your way to grab the pastries and you saw that flower stand up the road. You thought of me and grabbed it. She was watching you. The idea of you buying a flower for me must have annoyed her so she felt compelled to reveal herself. Amp up her mind games. You two must have had a past.”

John was completely thrown and didn’t know how to respond. It was one thing to have a series of dreams that he thought had no relation to his real life, but now seeing Gina in the flesh meant that all of the things flooding him were very real and he wasn’t sure how to process it.

“In a nutshell,” said John somewhat withdrawn.

Marlena sensed the heaviness on John’s spirit. They felt so hopeful less than an hour ago and now it was like the little progress they had just made meant nothing. Marlena didn’t probe any further. She just embraced John for a few moments and whispered into his ear. “We are almost there baby. Just trust me. We are almost there.”

Shane took his cue and proceeded with the rundown. “Well, we know that the chest is here in Nice within 2 miles.  I suspect it’s locked into something scrambling the frequency, that’s why we can’t isolate exactly where it is.  We also followed up on those questions for you Marlena. 

Shane handed Marlena a file and before her an entire story unfolded. She gave John a reassuring wink and began her deep dive.

“I’ve been thinking long and hard and asking myself a series of questions and trying as hard as I can to fill in the blanks with logical answers. Whether we have proof or not. In medicine, sometimes we have to rule things out to find the answer. Even if it’s to create a hypothetical,” said Marlena.  “I want to tell you a story that I have crafted, and I want you to tell me what you think.”

Anna Von Amberg was a single hardworking seamstress that dedicated herself to the Alamain family for 15 years. While in town sourcing new fabrics, she met a distinguished man who we can now assume is The Tailor.  He wooed Anna over time and carved a place for himself in her heart and they were soon married.

As time went on, Anna continued to work for the Alamain family while The Tailor did what he could to make a modest wage. I suspect he was a vetted painter on the side and introduced to the Alamain family by Anna as such.  It was at this time that he was hired to paint a portrait of Mrs. Alamain.  Spending so much time together, I am not sure if they fell in love or he was just finessing her, but they ended up becoming lovers.

I think Anna discovered the affair and started a series of events in motion.  I think she learned that not only was The Tailor a cad, but also a counterfeiter. I think she laid in wait and struck when the opportunity presented itself. 

When Mrs. Alamain gave birth to twins, a boy and a girl; one was fair-haired like The Tailor while the other resembled Vincent and rumors were filling the streets with accusations that the Alamain twins were in fact, not Alamains which left Vincent incensed. I think Vincent confronted his wife and when the truth was revealed about the affair, he wanted blood. 

The Tailor got cocky and added himself to that portrait to tease Vincent before leaving town. Anna, humiliated and guilt-ridden, commiserated with her employer offering damning evidence to destroy her cheating grifter of a husband. She told Vincent about the forgeries and where everything was.  I think Vincent found The Tailor and held him to task while giving Anna a generous severance, allowing her to part ways and keep her silence about the truth.  That’s how Anna was able to purchase the textiles company.

At some point, Mrs. Alamain discovered that Vincent had locked The Tailor away and tortured him, something that Vivian Alamain herself would consider doing today and probably has. I think Mrs. Alamain freed The Tailor because she loved him.  When Vincent discovered another betrayal by his wife, he swore her to secrecy threatening to leave her penniless and take her children should she ever utter The Tailor’s name or mention him ever again. What ever Vincent got from Anna Von Amberg is locked in that chest and I suspect it has to do with a series of art forgeries or details about them. 

As far as the disappearance of Anna, I can only assume that The Tailor found her and as to what happened to her? Your guess is as good as mine. 

Marlena continued to weave a string of plausible theories together knowing full well that only some of her contentions could be proven based on the information she had received from the diligence of the ISA.

“I was able to read as many newspaper article archives and I think F.V.A stood for Frederic Von Amberg and according to some additional cross referencing, a pseudonym for Frederic Gruber, who records indicate arrived in town just a few months before meeting Anna,” said Marlena.

Shane sat in his seat quietly and gave every detail that Marlena had just said deep thought. The room was extremely quiet which left Marlena unsure how her spin on history was received.

“So, Gina Von Amberg wants the contents of the box because she feels entitled?” asked Shane.

“She wants the box because she wants to beat Stefano. Doc, the envelope when you put me under of the maps and blueprints, I feel like that has something to do with this,” said John. 

Marlena went back to the file and searched through the papers. “There is no history of Gina Von Amberg which means…,” began Marlena.

“… She’s a pawn of Stefano,” said John in disdain. No matter where he was in life, Stefano DiMera always seemed to resurface. “This Princess Gina Von Amberg is no more a Princess than I was Roman Brady!”

John walked across the room in disgust and looked out of the window. Shane, Marlena and Willows stood in silence for a beat to allow John’s words to settle. Marlena took a deep breath and excused herself to go check on John.

“I know the rage, honey. We are almost there. We are going to go to Paris, and we are going to end this,” said Marlena trying to comfort John.

“Doc, I don’t know how to process all of this. A woman from my past, that I can’t remember, wants to kill me.  Now she’s offering me a key to my past if I can unlock a chest that I have already proven that I can’t open,” confessed John with a hint of desperation in his voice. 

Marlena’s heart ached for John. She knew how deeply recovering his true identity meant to him and watched him chase breadcrumbs time after time only to end up being outsmarted by Stefano once again. A man could only take so much, and Marlena was afraid that this could be the tipping point.

She stood behind him, rubbed his shoulders and remained silent. She knew that when he needed to get his head back in the game, he would be ok. Despite how infallible John appeared to be, he was very human and one of the most sensitive people that Marlena had ever known. 

“In exchange for the contents of the chest, she is willing to give me the key to my past,” said John. “I swore that I would never give in to DiMera or his sick and twisted games, but this one…”

“John, stay focused. This is a distraction. There may not even be a key to your past. She was probably upping the ante because she’s feeling the pressure,” Marlena offered trying to remain optimistic.

John wasn’t sure if Stefano and Gina were actually working together this time. He couldn’t put his finger on it, but he got the sense that they were competing this time. 

“Hold on, where exactly did Gina appear?” asked Shane.

John had grown extremely tired of this entire situation, but he knew that the only way out was forward. He shook off his feelings of despair and went back to the sitting area to finish meeting with the group.

“In front of the flower shop, up the road just like Doc called it. I was buying the flower. I guess I was distracted, and she just appeared. She did say something odd to me,” began John as he sat beside Marlena and grabbed her hand for support. “She said that ‘Steffy’ had done a number on me, like she knew about his mind games. Then she mentioned you Doc. It’s like she’s been watching us for a while.” 

“Willows, hurry to the flower shop and get every piece of surveillance footage you can get your hands on. John, can you describe what she looks like. What she was wearing?” asked Shane. 

John grabbed his head trying to shake the confusion. “Black. She was wearing all black. Leather Jacket. Her hair was tucked beneath a slouch beanie, but in my dreams, she had dark hair,” said John.  “I’m sure I could work with a sketch artist.  Anyway, she wants to meet in Paris day after tomorrow to exchange my past for contents of that chest.”

“A chest we don’t know how to open,” said Marlena. “Did you tell her that?”

John nodded solemnly still somewhat withdrawn. It was at times like this that Marlena knew when to take control and carry the load.  With the children safely on their way to Salem, she could focus on John and the mission at hand. 

“As far as she knows, we do know how to open the box. We just haven’t. We will meet her in Paris day after tomorrow and during the exchange, we will trap her and the box. Hopefully, she will have this so-called key to your past and we can get possession of that too,” said Marlena. She turned to John and grabbed his hand. “We are so close darling. I need you to hang in there, ok?”

John said nothing but nodded in agreement. He was so sure for so long that his past meant very little to him, but now seeing Gina in the flesh and being forced to tap into a past for answers was becoming too much. All he could do was curse Stefano DiMera and all of his games. 

John spent the evening sitting in a chair looking out of the window trying to wrap his head around everything that his wife had unfolded the night before. While most of the information Marlena shared was conjecture, it did follow a diabolical line of logic. He’d heard Marlena say a million times over that the way to solve a riddle is to keep asking questions. Who was Gina Von Amberg?  Where did she come from? What was their history?  How is she related to Anna and Frederic Von Amberg if at all? The smoke and mirrors had given him a splitting headache.

It was 5 A.M. and Marlena was still asleep. For a split-second John felt a twinge of joy as he glanced over and watched her resting so peacefully. The only other face that looked so angelic while sleeping was their baby girl Belle. He owed it to his family and himself to see this through.

As the sun began to rise, John felt his eyes begin to grow heavy. He had waited all night for the sensation of falling asleep to take over. He tilted his head back and closed his eyes. He then focused on the sounds of Marlena’s breathing just across the room and before long, he was fast asleep.

John paced impatiently in the frigid and musty foyer of the stoned manor. Stopping at every relic to examine them closely to pass the time, he checked his watch again and grew more impatient. He had been sitting there for almost 45 minutes without a word as to why he was summoned. He was told Mr. DiMera would be in touch and he made himself available, but he was on the cusp of walking out of the door and never looking back. Just as he was about to leave, the double doors across the foyer opened.

John walked inside of the dark musty room. It had the same dungeon-like feel of the foyer that had just housed him for the last 45 minutes. He walked over to the bar and poured himself a drink and stood in front of the stoned fireplace.

“I don’t appreciate being summoned like some errand boy and made to wait for 45 minutes,” said John very sternly. “And furthermore, I haven’t been paid for services rendered.”

The room remained silent as if John was talking to himself.

“Do you hear me talking to you? What is going on and why haven’t I heard from you in over 3 months?” demanded John.

From the shadows of the room appeared Stefano DiMera in a crimson smoking jacket drinking a small glass of port wine. 

“Relax. No need to get so revved up. Certain things were brought to my attention that I needed to investigate.  It took a bit of time, but now here we are,” said Stefano as he invited John to sit. “Please, have a seat.”

“I’ll stand thank you,” said John refusing to take direction from Stefano.

Stefano found John’s bravado to be quite amusing and frankly a little late.

“I wasn’t asking. Sit,” commanded Stefano.

John clinched his jaw and reluctantly took a seat opposite of Stefano. Nostrils flared, he refused to give Stefano the courtesy of looking him in the eye and concentrated on the roaring fire. 

“We seem to have a problem John. It was brought to my attention that one of my holding vaults was vandalized. Would you happen to know anything about that?” asked Stefano.

John finally made eye contact with Stefano. “Absolutely not,” he said emphatically. “And I don’t like being accused.”

A smirk crossed Stefano’s face. He got a kick out of pushing people to the brink and then slowly reeling them back in. Mind games were his thing.

“Calm down. I’m not accusing you of stealing. I just want to know what you know,” said Stefano fishing for information. 

“We’ve worked together for a long time DiMera. Just tell me what the problem is so that I can help you get to the bottom of this,” said John.

Stefano stood up and paced across the room no longer allowing John to see his face. It was something he often did to conceal his insecurities. 

“I understand you have taken company with our colleague Princess Gina?” asked Stefano.

“I don’t feel the need to share the details of my personal life, but we have become close,” offered John. 

“I suspect that Gina has been possessed by the Jezebel spirit,” said Stefano. “I have had her followed and it appears that our little partner in crime has been playing us.”

John shifted uncomfortably in his seat and knew exactly where this was going. “I don’t understand,” said John.

“Oh, I think you do. She has been playing us.  Question, what did you do with the maps and blueprints that I gave you at the Louvre?” asked Stefano.

John thought long and hard before answering. “I put them in my safe, why?” asked John.

“I suspected I had a mole and for a long time, I thought it was you. I am not sure you are aware, but I too was captivated by Gina’s beauty,” said Stefano with a twinge of disappointment. He almost sounded hurt. “She broke into your safe John and stole the location of one of my vaults that you were depositing my acquisitions to. She stole my Rembrandt and I want it back. And after you get it back, I want you to kill Gina Von Amberg!” 

Orders were orders and for what ever reason, John intended to obey Stefano’s command.  He had no idea that Gina was double crossing him, but if the Rembrandt was stolen, she was clearly the culprit. Before committing to holding Gina to task, he needed to see for himself. He went back to his safe to review the map and blueprints. The envelope was still there, and nothing seemed out of place.  If she cracked his safe, she was better than he’d given her credit for.  

The map detailed the catacombs beneath Paris. The entrance was illustrated in the blueprints of a guesthouse behind a castle in the countryside. He needed to see for himself if the vault had been disturbed. When he arrived, nothing appeared out of place. Everything archived was there under lock and key. Not even the dust had been disturbed. 

John was now conflicted. He had been given orders to assassinate Gina, but he wasn’t convinced she was guilty of what she was being accused of. Just as he was about to lock up, he was startled by Gina who lurked in the shadows.

“You can’t trust him you know,” said Gina as she took a drag on her cigarette. “I know he thinks I stole his Rembrandt, but I promise you, I didn’t do it.”

“Then how did you know about this vault? Clearly you have been up to something,” said John in search of the truth. 

Gina took a long drag on her cigarette before she began. “He’s in love with me, but he knows that I have eyes for you. He’s trying to play us against each other. He also knows that I have uncovered a secret that can destroy him.”

John said nothing.  He just listened and waited for a sign, something that could tell him who to believe.

“John, you believe me, don’t you?” said Gina as she slowly walked toward him. As she reached her hand out to stroke his face, she called him once more. “John, why aren’t you saying anything? John…”

“John, honey wake up,” said Marlena as she stood over him with a fresh cup of coffee.

John jerked violently and took a moment to adjust from such a visceral dream. Pushing pass Marlena, he ran to the desk in search of a pen and paper and began to draw what he recalled seeing in his dream.  Marlena watched him pensively. While concerned for his current state of mind, she wanted to let this play out. 

John continued to write notes about any and everything that he could recall from his dream before he lost it. Marlena could see a twinge of satisfaction written across his face.  She waited with bated breath, but she didn’t disturb John. She just watched him operate while also taking comfort that he seemed less defeated than before. 

“Doc, I think I remembered something important!” exclaimed John full of excitement. “I’m not sure if any of it is true, but there is only one way to find out.”

Marlena ran over to him to examine the notes he had just taken. It was a rough sketch of complex hallways and the floorplan of a house.

“Honey, that’s great! Stay in the moment. Keep taking notes. Walk me through your memories,” encouraged Marlena. 

That is precisely what John did.  Opening the curtains to let in the French sunlight, he turned their dining table into a make-shift vision board of all the notes they had acquired from the ISA, Marlena’s findings and the details of John’s dream. 

Marlena knew the clock was ticking and was more relieved than ever that John seemed to be bouncing back and ready to fight back.  Now certain that his head was back in the game, Marlena decided to change gears a bit.

“Hey. Take a minute. Come sit with me,” suggested Marlena as she patted the cushion on the sofa. 

As fired up as John was, he knew how his wife the psychiatrist operated. Reluctantly, John left his work on the table and indulged his wife. He sat next to her and grabbed her hand.

“What’s up Doc?” he asked pun intended. 

“Nothing. You were up all night. You had a very visceral dream if not a nightmare that included the likes of Stefano and you haven’t come up for air. I just want to do a status check. Make sure you are ok,” said Marlena with love and compassion in her eyes. She had witnessed John’s mood fluctuate several times in the last few days and wanted to remain vigilant.

John kissed Marlena softly on the neck and then rested his forehead against hers. He didn’t say anything, he just took a deep breath and concentrated on listening to the sound of her heartbeat. He took Marlena’s hands and intertwined their fingers enjoying the ability to connect with her in such a special way. The sunlight shined on them and the warmth was invigorating. 

Following John’s lead, Marlena continued to enjoy the connection. She too could feel John’s heartbeat and it made her feel safe and complete. She couldn’t resist the urge to pull away and steal a kiss. Just a simple brush across the lips was all she needed.

“I’m ok Doc. I promise,” whispered John. “I can see the light at the end of the tunnel and it’s because of you.”

“Honey, it’s because of you.  You are tapping into your memories and allowing them to guide you,” said Marlena. “So, what’s our next move?”

John and Marlena were on their way to Paris to follow up on the validity of John’s recollection of the maps and blueprints he saw in his dream. The only way to find out if they were real was to go see for himself. 

Within a few hours, John and Marlena had landed in Paris in hopes of getting a leg up on Gina before she contacted them for the exchange. Determined to get the advantage, John purchased a more detailed map of the city and was determined to match it against his memories.

To their dismay, so much had changed in the city with all of the new developments popping up. The open fields from yesterday were now the home to sundry stores and quaint coffee shops. John soon realized that he wasn’t going to be able to rely on landmarks and things that seemed vaguely familiar. 

John and Marlena sat on a bench sipping coffee and studying the maps against John’s sketches.

“I was able to get a copy of the tunnels beneath the city. Most aren’t available to the public anymore, but Shane was able to pull some strings,” said John looking for a needle in a haystack.

“Does anything look familiar to you?” asked Marlena.

John knew that he was going to have to rely on his gut more than anything. It had gotten him this far. He sat for a moment to take in the sights and observe the landscape. Nothing seemed familiar.

“Maybe I was wrong. Maybe there is no vault,” said John second guessing himself.

Marlena sipped her coffee and rubbed John’s shoulder showing her support. They had come too far to give up now. Despite the pending deadline soon approaching, Paris was truly beautiful this time of year. It was a shame that they couldn’t just stop and enjoy all that the city had to offer.

A large truck towing hay passed by barely able to navigate down the narrow road. Marlena watch the driver cautiously navigate down the street and then veer off the road down and overgrown path. 

“That’s interesting,” said Marlena as she watched the truck drive away leaving a trail of dust behind it. “Where is that truck going? The map doesn’t show any roads or landmarks for miles. Where is he going?”

John looked at the map and compared it to where they were. “According to this, there is a stable about ¼ of a mile north of here,” he said.

“Maybe we should go check it out. Maybe a tree or stream will jog your memory,” suggested Marlena.

Making their way down the trail, they approached a small cottage in the middle of nowhere. It was a picturesque dwelling that you would see on a postcard. Surrounded by an old wooden fence, a few small animals grazed in the pasture.

“Does any of this look familiar to you?” asked Marlena. 

To John’s dismay, it didn’t. He approached the fence of the cottage and pet a small goat that stuck his head out to say hello. John stroked the animal gently while continuing to take in the sites. A worker in the fields approached.

“Bonjour. Êtes-vous perdu ?” asked the field worker.

John immediately looked over to Marlena for a little assistance since his French was limited to yes and no. Marlena removed her sunglasses and approached the fence with a giant smile.

“Salut. Parles-tu Anglais ?” asked Marlena. “Do you speak English?” 

“Yes, a little,” said the gentleman. 

“We are on vacation and saw your cottage. It’s beautiful. How long have you lived here?” asked Marlena.

“I just take care of the property and the animals. No one lives here,” he said.

John glanced at Marlena and realized they had the same thought. Why would there be a cottage and animals in the middle of nowhere?

“May I see? I’ve always wanted to own a cottage like this,” said Marlena.

The gentleman was pensive. He had never been asked about the property before. He never even met the owner. He’d managed the property for years unbeknownst to who his employer was. 

“No, madame. I am sorry. I shouldn’t,” said the gentleman.

Just before Marlena was about to take no for an answer, she saw the remnants of an old chimney in the middle of the field a few meters away.

“Was there a main house?” asked Marlena as she pointed to the eroded stone structure.

“Oui. But no more. Feu.”  said the gentleman. 

“Feu?” asked John. He looked to Marlena for translation. 

Marlena smiled from ear to ear and looked at John. “A fire.” 

John and Marlena opted to take refuge in a small bed and breakfast just up the road with intentions of returning to the cottage after dark.  With any luck, they would be able to have a look at the property without bringing attention to themselves. 

Opting for a short nap after a hearty meal, John and Marlena woke just before sunset cuddled in each other’s arms. It was a shame that time didn’t permit for a romantic getaway. A bed and breakfast in the Parisian countryside was what couples dreamed of. 

Bundled up with a small duffle bag of necessities, John and Marlena trekked up the road into the night. Without the aid of streetlamps or existing structures, they used a flashlight to guide them through the darkness. 

“Did you tell Shane where we were?” asked Marlena as they scaled the fence of the cottage.

John tossed the duffle bag over the fence and followed. “Not about the cottage.  He does know we are researching the tunnels.  I gave him coordinates to meet us in the morning.  You nervous?” asked John reaching for her hand.

“Cautious is more like it,” said Marlena as they made it to the side of the structure.

John peered through the window to get a feel for the interior.  The room had minimal furniture, with just a table and a few chairs. He tried to see if the floorplan matched his blueprints, but it was hard to tell from his vantage point. Gaining access from a side window, John and Marlena found themselves inside the cottage hopeful that John would catch a spark of something familiar.

After pulling the shades to hide the light, Marlena lit a few candles that were placed on the table to illuminate the room as much as possible. John pulled out his sketches to see if anything matched. It was a basic floorplan and though slightly different, it could easily have been modified over the years. John’s sketch showed a cottage with 2 rooms while this only had one.  Perhaps this wasn’t the needle in a haystack they were looking for.

Marlena walked around the room closely inspecting the walls and floorboards. She even paid close attention to the flooring in anticipation of finding a trap door.  Shining the light on the pitched ceiling, Marlena noticed a few cobwebs hanging from the beams. The only thing that gave the room a bit of character was a barren shelf in the corner covered in dust. She walked over to inspect it closer but saw nothing remarkable.

“Honey, I don’t see anything standing out.  I don’t see any trap doors, levers or even hollow sounds when I tap on the floors,” said Marlena as she stomped her feet randomly in the corner she occupied. 

“Well if DiMera is part of the equation, what ever we are looking for could be in plane sight,” said John as he began to inspect the room closer. 

Marlena walked over to the fireplace and bundled up as she felt a draft rush down the chimney chilling her bones.  She shined her light inside of the fireplace in search of the damper switch. 

“Should I close this thing while we search? I’m freezing,” said Marlena as she began to shiver.

John walked over to the fireplace and inspected it closely. It hadn’t been used in ages. There was a thick layer of dust on top of decades of soot. He tinkered with the switch, but it was stuck. 

“I think we are going to have to cuddle for body heat Doc. This thing is stuck,” said John as he felt a layer of grime coat his hands.

Not only was Marlena freezing, she was also giving up hope on the notion that this location was going to help them in some way. She walked back over to the table to examine John’s sketch by candlelight once more.

“If we could just get it lighter in here.  Maybe we could see better. A clue. Something,” she said in exasperation. 

John joined her at the table to take another look at the sketch as well. “Maybe my vision was right, but we are in the wrong location,” said John running his soiled hands over his sketch smearing dust and soot along the edge. Trying to clean his hands on his jeans, he walked over to the basin to wash his hands without thinking.

As he cranked the water, all he heard was air in the pipes and a loud clamor that startled Marlena.

“Turn it off!” she shouted afraid that someone would hear. 

John turned the handle, but the pipes continued to clamor.  On instinct, he looked under the basin for the valve and when he turned it something strange happened. The dusty shelf in the corner began to recess further into the wall.

“Um, honey! The shelf, something is shifting!” said Marlena full of excitement. 

John ran over to the shelf and put his face close to the wall. “I feel a draft! I think this is a door!” he said as he went back over to the valve and cranked it once more. Right before them, the shelf continued to recess into the wall revealing a narrow path with stoned stairs leading to an abyss.

John and Marlena looked at each other full of bewilderment and intrigue. Breathless and ready to dive in Marlena shined the light into her future destination. “I’m going in!  You coming?”

John walked to the entrance of the shelf and flashed his light into the darkness. It was pitch black and he couldn’t see a thing.

“Hold on,” said John thinking on his toes. “Wait here.”

“Where are you going?” asked Marlena.

John looked at Marlena and gestured for her to wait and then climbed out of the window.

Marlena leaned closer to the entrance to see what she could hear. It was deathly silent. She shined her light all around and all she could see was light reflect off the darkness.

John returned through the window with a hand full of rocks and pebbles he found outside.

Tossing one into the darkness, he listened closely to hear how long it took to make a sound. In less than a second, he could hear the rock make contact and bounce once.

He then tossed a few pebbles toward the ground and heard the pebbles bounce several times then stop.

“Sounds like there are least 4 steps going down. The area is narrow. There’s no draft. Could be a root cellar.”

“Honey be careful,” said Marlena. She could hear her own pulse racing rapidly and feel the adrenaline surging through her veins. 

John stuck his hand along the wall to get a feel of the path. His senses told him it was a narrow walkway and decided to go inside. On a leap of faith, John cautiously entered the room keeping close to the wall as a guide when he felt a switch and hit it. The room became dimly lit to reveal a small area leading to another heavy sealed door.

“I think I found the entrance to the tunnels! Doc check this out,” said John with a sigh of relief. The fact that he was able to recall this place in his dreams was a huge advantage. An advantage that could possibly give them the upper hand in capturing Gina, the chest and perhaps the answers to his past.

Marlena entered the room and looked around in amazement. “If I didn’t see it for myself, I wouldn’t have believed it,” said Marlena.  She looked at John full of pride and hugged him tightly around his neck. “You did it! Oh my gosh, you did it!”

John did feel a sense of accomplishment.  While he had no clue what was on the other side of that door, the fact that he was able to get to this point meant so much more. For the first time since Mexico, he felt like he may be able to tap into his memories to answer a litany of questions, but now wasn’t the time to rest on his laurels.  He was torn with the idea of moving forward with Marlena at his side in the unknown or pausing and making sure she was safe, and he’d return later with Shane.  The truth was, time was not on their side. 

John walked to the sealed door on the other end of the room and put his ear to it listening for any activity on the other side.  It was literally a door to the unknown. He heard nothing which meant the only way to find out what was on the other side was to open it.

“Doc, I need to go forward, but I don’t feel right taking you with me. I don’t know what to do,” said John weighing his options. “I refuse to endanger you any further.”

“We came together. We leave together. Either through this door or the window we climbed through. It’s your call, but I’m not leaving your side,” said Marlena with her arms folded. 

John had to think fast and came to a decision. Cleaning up the candles and evidence they’d left behind in the cottage, John and Marlena decided to disappear behind the bookshelf into the unknown.

“How do we close the bookshelf back?” asked Marlena looking around the small holding room. 

The only thing visible was the light switch on the wall and the door that led to the unknown. John walked over to Marlena to take a moment before they went any further. He embraced her tightly and took a deep inhale of her essence as if he was about to submerge underwater.

“I love you so much Doc. You are my world and I have no idea what’s on the other side of that door, but I’m glad to be finding out with you,” said John. He felt like he was being pulled in multiple directions. To end this, he felt this pull to go forward, but to protect Marlena he had a second thought to go back.

“There is no place I’d rather be than at your side,” said Marlena.

Even though the clock was ticking, John and Marlena knew they were embarking into unknown territory and needed to reaffirm their love. Slowly pulling away, John reached in for one last passionate kiss for posterity. Gently holding Marlena’s chin with the tip of his finger, John brushed his nose along her cheek. The warmth and softness always brought him comfort.

Reluctantly pulling away from John’s embrace, Marlena tried to push on full of trepidation. “Honey, I think the moment you turn the wheel on that door, the shelf will close,” hypothesized Marlena. “I think we will be in the tunnels beneath the city and we need to know where we are going. We also need a plan if we get… separated.”

The thought of being separated made John’s heart skip a beat, but it was a very realistic occurrence to consider. “If anything happens and I tell you to leave me, you have to promise you will listen to me and get in touch with Shane. That’s the only way I am going through that door with you. Deal?” proposed John.

Marlena nodded reluctantly and sealed it with a kiss. 

Armed with a duffle bag full of supplies, a sketch and vague memories, John and Marlena found themselves in a labyrinth of catacombs beneath the streets of Paris.  For blocks, nothing seemed familiar and there was no exit in sight.  The only consolation was that every so often, they could see a small sign of life above ground.  With it being in the middle of the night, the city was in the midst of a peaceful slumber.  

“According to my compass we have been heading north which means we should be…” began John as he shined his flashlight onto the map and compared it to his sketch, “near the Louvre.”

“Which would make sense for a fast stash after a heist at the museum,” said Marlena thinking on her toes. 

They had been walking for miles when they decided to take a pause under a manhole covering just under a streetlamp.  Just seeing light from above made Marlena feel less claustrophobic.  She was starting to have angst as her days in the pit crept into her subconscious.

“I need a minute,” said Marlena. Can we just stop for a minute? Get our bearings. ” 

John realized they had been walking for ages and a break wasn’t such a bad idea. Just as they’d taken a moment to bask in a faint glow from the streetlamp, they heard sounds echoing in the distance.

“Did you hear that?” whispered Marlena. “I think I heard something ahead.”

John listened closely and he heard the sounds too. “It could be a rat,” suggested John. “Stay here and I’ll go check it out.”

“A Rat!” exclaimed Marlena as she felt her chest start to tighten. “I guess it’s better than a snake, huh?”

At that moment, John realized that Marlena was having flashbacks of being locked away in the pit by Stella Lombard. How could he have been so thoughtless? 

“I think it’s time we get back to the surface. We aren’t going to find the vault like this,” said John. 

“Let’s at least keep going until we get close to were Shane would be expecting us. I trust you to get us through this,” said Marlena. She was completely overcome with anxiety, but her faith in John was what gave her the strength to push through. 

They heard the sounds again and turned the corner to investigate. It was a tapping coming from the pipes. John tapped in a distinct rhythm and miraculously it was returned.  They exchanged glances for a moment and although unnerved, they were slightly intrigued.  John tapped again but this time in morse code to see if the person understood. The response was still tapping but no identifiable pattern. Following the trail of the pipes, they found themselves in a small hidden corner not indicated on John’s sketch.  There was a door similar to the one they entered into the tunnels.

John tapped on the pipes again with caution and could tell that the person tapping was on the other side of that door.

“Stay behind me,” warned John. He opened the door slowly trying to remain stealth, but the clamoring of the door echoed throughout the tunnels. 

 Marlena held her breath in anticipation of John’s reaction to what loomed on the other side of the door. 

“Honey, please be careful,” whispered Marlena. 

John heard her warnings but was so captivated by this new discovery that his curiosity had gotten the best of him. Part of him felt a rush expecting to find a room full of art like in his dreams while the other part of him was prepared to fight for their lives because clearly there was a person behind the series of taps. Following the light, John entered the room and discovered it was the vault. It was cleared out with tarps strewn all around the floor.

Marlena stuck her head in to see for herself as John continued to investigate the origin of the tapping.

“Hello?” John called out.

The tapping became more frequent and seemed to be coming from the other side of the stone wall. He ran his hands along the stone wall and then rubbed his fingers together.

“This mortar is fresh in comparison to the rest of this room. Hand me the crowbar out of the duffle bag,” said John as he searched for the best breaching point. Chiseling away at the block, he could see there was light on the other side of the wall.

“There’s a room behind here!” said John digging faster. 

In a matter of seconds, John had made a small opening and saw the silhouette of two people behind plexiglass. 

“Oh my g…,” began John. “I, I don’t believe it!”  he exclaimed as he dug faster. “Help me!”

Marlena rushed over and began to push the stones out of the wall and before her very eyes appeared what John had just seen.  It was Vivian and Ivan alive and being held in a soundproof room behind plexiglass. How could this be? John had seen the photos of their bodies. He was confident that they were dead.

Vivian and Ivan, shocked to see John and Marlena on the other side of the plexiglass, pointed to the button on the wall which activated an intercom. 

“John! Oh my gosh, John!  You found us! You found us!” screamed Vivian.  “Get us out of here!”

While John and Marlena had set out to find additional clues, never in a million years would they have thought the clues would be finding Vivian and Ivan held captive beneath the streets of Paris. Freeing them from their plexiglass dwellings, John got everyone onto the surface street and contacted Shane immediately.  Within 30 minutes a van had them picked up and taken to the designated rendezvous point. 

Vivian and Ivan had given a recap of all that had transpired over the last few months. After winning the bid at the auction that fateful night, they recalled checking into their hotel rooms and waking up behind the plexiglass with no clue how they got there and why.

“This has Stefano written all over it!” said John. “Were there ever any demands? Who came to drop off supplies? Food? Water?”

“Some guy. Young. Brownish hair. Never seen him before.  He spoke very little to us. We were free to roam for weeks. Meals were delivered daily, then all of a sudden in a panic we were put into that horrible room with a month of rations and watched them seal the wall stone by stone.  It was horrifying,” sobbed Vivian. 

“The Cask of Amontillado,” said Marlena. “How sick!” 

It wasn’t long before Shane was able to put the series of events in order. Outside of being the first targets to get the box open, Vivian had very little information to help. Ivan was just a victim of circumstance.

“So, you don’t think they can help us in any way?” asked John.

“They can’t identify anyone except for their handler,” said Shane. “Which reminds me, we heard from Gina. There will be a gala hosted by Lili Faversham tomorrow night. This is where it’s going to go down.”

“And I think Vivian and Ivan should attend.  If their captor is there, imagine the look on their face when they see them enjoying the festivities as if nothing happened” suggested Marlena.

The Faversham soiree didn’t disappoint. The highest of European society was in attendance at the grand estate as well as a litany of private security. The notion that someone in attendance was going to make a play in such an environment was most unsettling, but John was ready more than ever to bring this adventure to an end.

Marlena and John entered the grand ballroom dressed to the nines arm in arm. Even though they were there on official business, John couldn’t deny how beautiful Marlena looked in her navy gown and updo showing off her irresistible neck. 

“Gosh you look ravishing,” said John as he kissed Marlena softly on her neck. “And please know that nothing and I mean nothing is going to stop me from making love to you tonight. ”

Marlena savored John’s touch and felt her loins began to stir. “I’m going to hold you to that Mr. Black,” she said softly. 

John scanned the room in hopes of spotting Gina, Stefano or anyone working with them. No one looked out of place, so it was going to be a long night. Taking Marlena’s hand and guiding her to the dancefloor, John and Marlena began to waltz with the masses.   For a brief moment in time, this dance was the only thing happening. There was no chest to open. There was no past to unlock. There was no Gina lurking in the shadows; it was just them holding each other close.  

Across the room Vivian and Ivan made their grand entrance as planned. John watched the room’s reaction as Vivian commanded all the attention that she could access, and she didn’t disappoint. Contrary to her reputation in Salem, Vivian seemed to be well received and revered in Europe.  People flocked from across the room to welcome her and ask about her absence over the last few months. John honed in on those engaging with Vivian and noticed the Belle of the Ball, Lili Faversham. She was a woman of a particular age, her style paying homage to a timeless era of glamour and opulence. 

“Vivian, darling! It’s been a while,” said Lili as she gave the quintessential air kiss. “How have you been?”

Vivian had only been out of captivity for a few hours and it took everything in her to stay in character. “Lili, darling! Yes, it has been a while. Per doctor’s orders,” she said in a hushed tone. “Nothing like a little maintenance to freeze time.” 

The two ladies laughed simultaneously while having less than flattering thoughts of one another. Vivian secretly gagged at the sight of Lili’s attire. “Your dress is fabulous. I must get your seamstress,” gushed Vivian. 

“Rodolfo is like family. You will adore him. You’ve always had the finest pieces that would compliment any look,” Lili lied as she highlighted Vivian’s jewels. “I’ll take the number of your jeweler.” 

Although over the moon about being saved from that horrific cell, Vivian wasn’t sure what was worse, this party full of pretentious posers or being locked away in the bowels of the Parisian tunnels never to see the light of day. Making eye contact with John from across the room, Vivian nodded in his direction in acknowledgement.

“What a small world. My nephew is here. Allow me to introduce you,” said Vivian as she beckoned John to come over. “John, this is Lili Faversham a very old and dear friend.”

John’s ears piqued when he heard the name. Shane had mentioned her before, and she was clearly well known on the art scene. “Ms. Faversham, it’s a pleasure to meet you. And this is my wife, Dr. Marlena Evans Black.”

It wasn’t long before Marlena took her cue to engage with Lili about the art world and what her favorite pieces were. In the meantime, John made a point to excuse himself in hopes to smoke Gina out of hiding. He decided to relive history and have a glass of champagne will observing a Renoir on display. A waiter came by with a tray of champagne and offered John another glass.

“Champagne monsieur?” asked the waiter.

John continued to scope the room without engaging. “No, I’m fine,” said John holding up a nearly full glass.

“I must insist,” said the waiter in an ominous tone losing his French accent. John looked at the waiter and realized the game had started. Adjusting his tie, he looked at the tray and saw a small note and grabbed it.  

Terrace. East wing. 1/2 hour.

And so, this was how it was going to end.  In the deep and bone chilling night on a Parisian terrace overlooking a placid lake that shimmered under the pale glow of the bashful moonlight. John looked at his watch and then searched for Marlena and spotted her across the room leaving with Willows. Having Marlena shadowed when he was away from her was key in order for him to keep his head in the game.

Vivian continued to play her part by making sure that she was seen by all. She suddenly caught the eye of a young man with brown hair talking to Lili Faversham from across the room.

“Ivan? Does the guy talking to Lili Faversham look familiar to you?” asked Vivian.

Ivan took a look and it was indeed a familiar face. 

“Madame, it’s our captor! We must tell John right away,” said Ivan as he searched the room for his whereabouts.  Unfortunately, he was nowhere to be found.  “I just saw him. Where did he go?”

“I have no idea, but we need to hide before he sees us!” said Vivian beginning to sweat profusely.  She was starting to display a reaction to being imprisoned for months with no hopes of seeing the light of day. 

Marlena entered the ladies’ room to freshen her make up and find a moment of peace. She was pensive because tonight was the night this was hopefully going to come to an end. As Willows waited outside the door to keep watch, Marlena applied a fresh coat of lipstick and studied her reflection in the mirror.  Her breasts were starting to ache as she filled with milk. Oh, how she missed her children. Not just Belle and Brady because they were her babies, but Sami, Eric and Carrie too.  Hopefully by this time tomorrow, she would be on her way to Salem and she could try to put the pieces back together. 

Giving herself one last look, she suddenly felt a presence behind her. Catching Gina’s reflection in the mirror, Marlena turned around ready to face her nemesis. 

“Gina, so we finally meet,” said Marlena.

“And so, we have,” said Gina sizing Marlena up. “John has good taste I see. Question, does he still rub his nose on your cheek before he…?”

The thought of John touching Gina made Marlena’s stomach turn but she kept a stiff upper lip. 

“Actually, he’s upped his game substantially. But a lady doesn’t kiss and tell,” said Marlena as she looked at the door.

“Don’t bother calling for Willows. She’s otherwise engaged. It’s just you and me,” said Gina gloating. 

Marlena felt the best way to spar with Gina was with her psychiatrist hat on.  Clearly this woman was not well and no stranger to delusions of grandeur.  Gina twitched slightly before lighting a cigarette. 

“Smoke?” she offered.

“No, thank you and I would switch from the Zyprexa to Abilify,” said Marlena.  “It will help with the twitch. It’s a side effect. Most likely precipitated by the cigarettes and alcohol. I can make a few recommendations of good psychiatrists if you need one. You would be a phenomenal case.  I would take the challenge, but as you know, John keeps me… busy.” 

Gina had underestimated Marlena. She took her for a complacent damsel in distress, but Marlena had proven otherwise. 

“Let’s cut to the chase, shall we. I want John. I don’t care about the box although I plan to keep both,” said Gina.

“And his past? Do you really think we believe that you have the key to his past? If you ever cared about John, you would know how deeply vile it is to lie about something like that,” spat Marlena. “Humor me, what was all this about? The cloak and dagger. The staged assassination of Vivian and Ivan?” 

Gina just smiled savoring the moment of having the upper hand. She took a long drag on her cigarette and blew a smoke ring into the air. “I learned that one in Greece. You have to lock your jaw kind of like when you give head, but a lady like you wouldn’t know about that now would you?” 

Gina pulled out a small .22 pistol and pointed it at Marlena. She hadn’t planned on having this moment with Marlena just before her exchange and rendezvous with John, but the idea of seeing the look on Marlena’s face when she took John back was actually going to be worth it. 

“You know, I was going to let the mystery of it all haunt you for eternity, but I think you should know exactly what’s been going on,” said Gina as she gestured for Marlena to walk toward the door. “I have a meeting in 10 minutes. Let’s walk and talk shall we.”

Marlena didn’t flinch. She walked out of the bathroom and was shocked to find Willows out cold on the floor just outside of the door.

“She’ll live,” said Gina stepping over Willows’ limp body propped against the wall.

John made his way to the grand staircase to head toward the east wing for the rendezvous.  He didn’t see anyone in sight which was most disconcerting. At least Willows was with Marlena, but where was Vivian, Ivan and Shane?   This was the moment he needed all hands on deck, but was determined to push on, even if he had to do it alone. 

Making his way up the stairs, he spotted Vivian sitting in a corner nursing a glass of champagne. 

“Are you ok? Where is everyone?” asked John.

“Oh John! Thank goodness!  The man! The man that was bringing supplies to Ivan and me is here. I saw him talking the Lili Faversham!” said Vivian slightly overcome with fear. 

“He’s here? Where? What does he look like?” asked John as he scanned the room. 

“I have no idea. Ivan went to keep an eye on him,” said Vivian trying to suppress a panic attack. 

John looked at his watch and realized he needed to go. He patted Vivian on the hand. “Stay in plain sight. You will be safer that way. I need to be somewhere,” said John. “If you see Shane, tell him I am on the terrace in the east wing.”

John continued on his journey when he found himself walking down a long corridor. Voices around the corner could be heard speaking in hushed tones. “I paid you handsomely to do a job and this is what I get?” said Lili Faversham.  “How in the hell are Vivian and Ivan at my party when you told me they were as good as dead?” 

John paused to listen in.

“Kurt, I asked you a question. I knew this was a bad idea from the start. Gina was never the most reliable source unless it suits her agenda. I just want my painting back! Now wrap this mess up and make sure you aren’t seen. I’ll be in touch,” said Lili in a huff as she walked away leaving John unnoticed around the corner.

Kurt was in fact Vivian and Ivan’s captor and he was procured by Lili Faversham. The story was starting to unfold at a rapid pace. With no time to spare, John waited for Kurt to leave before he proceeded to the terrace for his final exchange with Gina.

Marlena walked onto the terrace at gunpoint trying to figure out how she was going to get out of this jam.  In her heart of hearts, she knew John was somewhere watching and waiting. It was the only thing that kept her calm. Bundling up to shield from the brisk air, Marlena faced her captor.

“So now what? We are on a terrace with one exit, Gina. Give it up,” said Marlena trying to evoke fear and confusion. “We found your henchman.  John has probably kicked his sorry ass back to the hole you crawled out of. I’m guessing you have summoned John to meet you here now, right? So original,” scoffed Marlena as she turned her back to Gina. Marlena’s pulse raced so rapidly that she could hear it thumping as she tried to slow her breath. Looking out at the lake, she tried to distract herself by watching the clouds play peak-a-boo with the moon. 

John approached the terrace entrance and was crestfallen to see Marlena held at gunpoint by Gina. Undetected, he stood outside of the door in wait contemplating his next move.

Gina went to a potted shrub in the corner and pulled out the infamous chest. There was a small flashing light on top of the box.

“This is why you were chasing your tails. I scrambled the frequency just enough to keep you guessing,” said Gina. Catching a glimpse of John entering the terrace, Gina smiled with delight. “Honey! You made it to the grand finale. I was just about to tell your precious Marlena a story.  Grab a chair, this one is going to be a doozy!” 

John slowly approached Gina in hopes to defuse the situation without incident. 

“Don’t come any closer or she gets it,” warned Gina.

Marlena looked into John’s eyes like she had done so many times before. Counting on their special connection, Marlena willed John to read her mind and heart. John saw it crystal clear. He felt Marlena’s fear, but it wasn’t for herself, it was for him. Somehow, she had managed to worry about him while she was on the business end of a pistol.

“Gina, this is between you and me. Let Marlena go and we can work this out. Hand me the box and I’ll open it for you, but I’m not doing anything until you let Marlena go,” said John trying to bargain with his last chip. “I have the key right here,” said John brandishing a vile of red liquid. “That’s right Gina, I’ve had the key all along. Now let Marlena go.”

“If only you had been this loyal to me!” spat Gina. “Stefano sent you to kill me and you listened to him. How could you?” said Gina feeling dejected. “We had a good thing and you let his lies poison our love.”

John looked at Gina with confusion and a twinge of empathy in his eyes.  He knew firsthand how Stefano DiMera’s poison hurt any and all that crossed his path.

“Gina, whatever Stefano has done to hurt you, trust me, you aren’t the only one.  All of us have been victims of his games.  Let’s work together to get rid of him once and for all,” said John opening his hand in hopes of being handed the gun.

Gina took a moment to light a cigarette while keeping her gun pointed at Marlena.

“John, you believe me, don’t you?” said Gina as she slowly walked toward him. As she reached her hand out to stroke his face, she called him once more. “John, why aren’t you saying anything? John…”

John took the back of Gina’s hand and kissed it. “I believe you Gina, but we have to be careful. Stefano knows about us and he’s pissed. Where is the Rembrandt? If we just give him back the painting, maybe set someone up as the culprit, maybe we can make it out of this alive,” said John.

They both knew that was a lie.  Stefano was never going to let them live in peace. Not when he was pining for Gina’s affection. John kissed Gina passionately on the lips.

“I have a plan, meet me at our safehouse in Copenhagen day after tomorrow,” said John.

Gina left the vault that night and fled to Copenhagen. The next thing she remembered, she woke up locked away with no memory and a splitting headache.

Gina woke up in a haze trying to ascertain where she was and if John was by her side. The room was grand yet antiquated with the lavish decorations of yesteryear. “John?” Gina called out in a strained voice. “John are you here?”

Kurt entered the room with a tray of breakfast and a pink rose. A pink rose like the one John use to give her as a token of affection. Gina tried to rise happy to see another face.

“Who are you? Where am I and where is John?” asked Gina fighting to escape her abyss of confusion. “Are we in Copenhagen?”

Kurt sat the tray down on the nightstand. “Princess, I am Kurt. Do you remember me?” asked the gentleman.

Gina bundle beneath her covers for a layer of security. “I don’t. Who are you?” she asked.

“I am Kurt Schwengel. You hired me some time ago to manage your affairs and take care of you,” he said.

Gina grabbed her head and tried to put the pieces together. She had no recollection about Kurt or who he was.

“Where is John?” asked Gina.

Kurt sighed deeply and took a long pause. A look of dread crossed his face which made Gina begin to panic.

“Oh no! Something has happened. Are we in a hospital?” she said getting excited.

Kurt sat on the edge of Gina’s bed and grabbed her hand. “Princess, John is… gone. After he tried to kill you and left you for dead, I found you on the side of the road and have been taking care of you ever since.”

“John would never…” said Gina with incredulity. “How long have I been out?” she asked while grabbing her head.

“I would say about 12…” began Kurt.

“Hours?” asked Gina.

“Months,” replied Kurt. “You were well and doing nicely for a few weeks after I found you, but then you relapsed and fell into a coma. The doctors could never determine the cause and after they removed you from the machines, I sat by your side waiting for you to die, but you never gave up.” 

From this point, Gina lived each day vowing to get back at John for betraying her. Watching from the shadows while also staying off Stefano’s radar had been her life for the next decade. It wasn’t until she read an article about the recovery of a catalogue of paintings that she had stolen and forged for Stefano that she got the resurgence she needed to rise again. 

“Kurt, I want that chest recovered by the authorities.  If I can get my hands on that box, I can use it to smoke out John and Stefano at the same time and kill them both,” she plotted over her morning paper and cigarette. “Once I get my hands on the box and pretend like it is the object of my affection, I can draw them both out and strike!”

“Why not just have them assassinated?” asked Kurt. 

“What would be the fun in that? The best way to serve revenge is cold, preferably as a prix fixe,” replied Gina followed by a raspy cough. “Start with this Vivian Alamain. She’s in town and would be the best way to kick off a convoluted yet diabolical plan.” 

“Princess, this sounds like a very expensive endeavor. How are we going to finance such a plan?” asked Kurt.

“Contact Lili Faversham and tell her you have a location on her stolen Rembrandt and will need her sponsorship in order to get it back,” said Gina. 

Marlena listened to Gina’s story and found an element to pick apart and torment her.

“Gina, have you ever asked yourself how Kurt knew that John tried to kill you?  Left you on the side of the road?” probed Marlena. “Are you sure Kurt isn’t another pawn of Stefano’s, dangling a carrot in front of your face for sport.  It sounds just like him.”

The thought had crossed her mind a million times, but Kurt had proven himself to be extremely loyal over the years and even if he started off with selfish intensions, they certainly had dissipated over the years.

“Kurt loves me and would never,” jeered Gina while taking a final drag on her cigarette before having as slight cough attack. 

“The same way John loved you but tried to kill you?” asked Marlena.

Gina looked at Marlena impressed with a hint of disdain.  Feeling somewhat accomplished for placing a cloud of doubt in Gina’s mind, Marlena began to reel her in.

“Gina, something traumatic happened to you. Somehow, you manifested this alter ego, this persona to hide from the truth and Stefano preyed on that.  I am sure you were a lovely person before crossing his path, but it’s not too late.  John was able to put the pieces together and…” said Marlena.

Gina snapped the moment she inferred where Marlena was going. “… And fall in love with you? Have a couple of kids and live happily ever after?” hissed Gina. She was clearly agitated and suppressing a coughing fit as the cold air began to attack her lungs.

Just then Lili Faversham appeared on the terrace. “Still making messes I see Gina.  All I ever wanted was my painting back. I don’t want any blood on my hands. I’m relieved that Kurt didn’t kill Vivian and Ivan. We can end this now,” Lili tried to reason.

“Oh Lili, please.  All you ever cared about was your precious Rembrandt. Stefano stole it from you and yes, I stole it from him just as he thought, and you will never see it so you can get over it. I was all prepared to hand you the forgery and let you go on thinking you had won, but to hell with it. Why should everyone win except for me?” raged Gina as she began to cough uncontrollably. 

It was at this time Marlena struck and lunged for the gun in Gina’s hand, discharging a round into the Parisian darkness.

“I promised I was going to snap your neck and I intend to keep it!” exclaimed Marlena as she struck Gina in the face with a closed fist while trying to get the gun out of her hand.  The gun fell out of Gina’s hand and hit the floor.

John rushed to Marlena’s aid to grab the gun when another gunshot was fired from the other direction.  It was Kurt who had appeared on the terrace. Tears streamed down his face as he aimed his gun at the group of people frozen with shock and fear. 

“Thank goodness. Kurt, finish this and let’s go,” said Gina as she pushed Marlena off of her and grabbed the chest. “By the way, the secrets to your past are in this box. That’s right, Stefano found a way to open it all those years ago and locked your past with my future. Don’t you see John, we could have had it all!”

Lili crouched in the corner in fear for her life and was absolutely no use while John stood in front of Marlena calculating how he was going to get the gun on the floor.

Gina turned to face Kurt when she realized how shaken and visibly upset he was.

“You never loved me. You were never going to pick me. It was always John. You told me you were going to kill John,” said Kurt as he lifted the gun and aimed it at Gina.

Gina knew that Kurt had a crush on her but didn’t realize that he’d acted on the notion that he and Gina would be together. 

“Kurt, I do love you. You are my family…” began Gina. 

“He said you were a liar. He said I couldn’t trust you.  All these years I felt so guilty for not telling you the truth about the night you left for Copenhagen. Stefano was the one that tried to kill you Gina, because you broke his heart too. He hired me to care for you and to let him know if and when you got your memory back about that fateful night,” cried Kurt. 

In slow motion, John made a move to get the gun off the ground but not before Kurt fired one shot that struck Gina in the chest pushing her back toward the edge of the terrace. Gina locked eyes with Kurt and gave a wicked grin before hugging the chest and falling backward 3 floors below.  

In complete shock, Kurt ran over to the edge of the terrace after realizing what he had done. John seized the moment and tackled him to the ground disarming him.

Marlena looked over the railing and saw a lifeless Gina laying on her back in a pool of blood still clutching the chest when Stefano DiMera appeared and removed the chest from Gina’s hands. Opening it with a vile and taking a CD out, Stefano waved his bounty in the air rejoicing before he scurried off into the night.

“John! It’s Stefano! He’s down there and he has the chest,” exclaimed Marlena.

John ran to the edge of the terrace looking for a fast way down, but there was no way to get to him in time. Watching the illusive portly figure vanish into the dark Parisian night was another dagger to John’s heart.

Shane appeared with his team of security with weapons drawn.

“You are a little late,” said John as he ran past him. “DiMera is outside! Let’s go!”

Marlena stood at the edge of the terrace with a wave of mixed emotions stirring in her gut. Part of her wanted to exhale because they had made it to the end of this unharmed but confirming Stefano’s affiliation and his ability to open the chest just set a new series of events in motion. John was never going to rest not knowing what the true contents of the chest were. Nor was he going to stop looking for Stefano in search of his past. 

The authorities began to cuff a broken Kurt who cowered in the corner sobbing like a frightened child.

“I am a doctor,” began Marlena. “This man needs immediate psychiatric treatment before he is questioned. He’s having a psychotic break. ” 

After Marlena watched Kurt being put on a stretcher, she looked below to see John and Shane standing where a missing Gina once laid in a pool of blood.  Marlena looked in shock trying to comprehend how a visibly dead body could just vanish into thin air in a matter of seconds. She scanned the grounds from her vantage point, but sadly saw nothing helpful in the Parisian darkness. 

John and Marlena woke up completely hung over from a series of adventures that had unfolded since leaving their idyllic life in Seattle, WA. Last night was a conclusion like no other that sadly ended to be continued and as disconcerting as that was for Marlena, she would gladly accept this break if it allowed her to go home to her children. 

“Good morning gorgeous,” said John as he pushed Marlena’s wild mane out of her face. “It’s time to go grab the kids and head home.”

Marlena stretched luxuriously like a sleeping cat and smiled from ear to ear. “I know and I can’t wait,” she said envisioning the moment she held Belle and Brady for the first time in days.

John stared at his wife and had such an appreciation for everything she was and was so grateful to be with her in this moment. Stroking the side of her face, he could not resist the urge to kiss her passionately on the lips. 

“I feel like I’ve waited a lifetime to do this,” said John as he drove his tongue into her mouth.

Marlena gave John a come hither grin. Pulling the sheets back, John exposed a scantily clad Marlena brandishing only a pair of lace panties. Spreading her legs apart he began to make small baby kisses up her inner thigh. Her smooth skin still smelled of muted lavender from last night’s bubble bath.

Marlena closed her eyes and tilted her head back in anticipation of what John had in store. The sensation of his warm breath moving up her thigh had definitely gotten her attention.  While curling her fingers in John’s hair, she pushed his head into her salivating mound.

John had no intentions of teasing Marlena this morning. She’d earned every treat he had in store for her and more. Even if he did want to tease her, the truth was he could not hold out. He needed Marlena more at this moment than ever. This felt ceremonial for John and he wanted to truly honor their love making with care.

After removing Marlena’s panties, John grasped her knees and slowly eased them apart. Her southern lips smiled hello and beckoned for a kiss.  Like a starving man in need, John devoured Marlena darting his forceful tongue up and down her slit.

While it had only been a few days, Marlena’s body craved John’s touch. It took everything she had not to explode. She wanted this feeling to last forever.

“Oh John,” purred Marlena. “I need you right now. I can’t wait any longer.”

Nor could John. With a passion as strong as theirs, foreplay was rarely necessary. As much as John loved the taste of Marlena, he too couldn’t hold out much longer. Eager to feel her tight wetness envelope his throbbing shaft, John plunged into Marlena and fused his flesh with hers. Looking deep into her eyes, he moved his hips in slow circular motions.

Clawing every inch of his back, Marlena felt ripples of pleasure take over her body as John thrusted mercilessly into her slick warmth. It was a wonder how sex with John got better and better every time.

“I’ve missed you so much,” said John as he felt Marlena’s walls tighten around his shaft. Her walls were smooth like silk allowing him to glide with ease. John pinned her hands down above her head and explored her mouth with his tongue. Sucking on her bottom lips ever so gently, John felt an unexpected rush and buried his face into the small of Marlena’s neck and exploded inside of her. Clearly today was going to be a double header.

“You didn’t!” exclaimed Marlena. 

John didn’t expect to come as fast as he did, but he had no doubt that he could maintain his rock hardness to bring Marlena home. At least now, he could focus on pleasing her without holding back. 

“I did and I am going to do it again and again,” said John as he began to thrust harder. Now that he had one orgasm behind him, he aimed to release the kraken. 

“I want to hear you,” begged John. The sounds of Marlena’s muffled moans drove him insane.

Marlena felt herself approaching the brink of ecstasy tossing her leg over John’s shoulder. This was one of her favorites because the angles provided a runway directly to Marlena’s g-spot.

“OH YEAH! Right there,” she screamed arching her back. If John didn’t slow down, she was going to climax soon. She could feel all of the tension, stress and fear release from her body; something she craved and needed. 

John and Marlena explored each other all morning, violating every inch of their oversized bed. From one position to the next, they merged their bodies together giving little concern to screams of passion that came from their room.  They finally finished in the armchair across the room.

“That was impressive,” said John completely dehydrated. “I feel 18 again!” 

Marlena too felt rejuvenated. There was an overall sense of relief and optimism.

“I think I am going to call the kids. Let them know I am headed to Salem and that I want to see them,” said Marlena. “What do you think?” 

John sat on the edge of the bed and cocked his head to the side while pondering her question.

“How about we get to Salem and see what the climate is like. I think giving them a heads up may give them time to get cold feet, you know?” suggested John. “I just don’t want you to be disappointed. Things are going well right now and my goal is to make sure you stay healthy and happy.”

“So no more adventures?” asked Marlena as she leaned in for a kiss.

“Yes to more adventures. No to bullets, neurotoxins, chasing bad guys and treasure hunting,” said John.

“I like the treasure hunting! Don’t take the treasure hunting, that’s my favorite part. And then there’s the sex on planes…” began Marlena as she started up again.

On cue, the phone rang. John reluctantly pulled away to grab the phone. “John Black. Uh huh. Yes. Yes. You got it.  Thanks,” said John before hanging up.

“Who was that honey?” asked Marlena.

“Front desk. Our car is here and a bellman is on his way up to check us out. We are going home,” said John full of elation and smiles. “I do want to make a stop on our way to the airport if that’s ok?”

“As long as I am with you, we can go anywhere you want,” replied Marlena. 

“I just want to see the Eiffel Tower with you before we go,” said John. “Then after that, I promise we will see the kids.”

John and Marlena walked down the street hand and hand with their sights set on the Eiffel Tower. On the way there, John grabbed a few lilacs and presented them to Marlena as a token of his love and adoration.  Finding themselves at the Trocadero Gardens, John grabbed Marlena’s hand and kissed it.

“I just wanted to take a look at the Eiffel Tower one more time before we left Paris. It’s silly, but it reminds me of our kiss in front of the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas,” said John. 

“Our wedding day!” gushed Marlena. “It was a great day.”

“It was indeed. And I wouldn’t change anything about it,” said John.

“Me neither. Although, I would have liked the support of family and friends,” added Marlena.

John knew how important the support of her family meant to Marlena. If he had it to do over again, he would have found a way to make things easier, but he was certain in time things would improve. 

Standing in the gardens looking at the breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower hand in hand is all that John needed to close the chapter on this adventure series. Satisfied with his excursion, he kissed Marlena once more and was ready to head to the airport.

“Hey, check that out over there,” said John pointing to a small gathering a few meters away. “Let’s go be nosey.”

Marlena caressed John’s arm as they strolled through the gardens toward the quaint festivity. As they grew closer, Marlena could see that it was a small wedding ceremony about to take place.

“Oh John, it’s a wedding. How lovely. Looks like and intimate gathering. We can’t impose,” said Marlena.

“We won’t impose at all. I just want to take a look. It’s romantic,” urged John.

As they approached the gathering, the small orchestra began to play Here Comes the Bride. The attendees stood and to Marlena’s surprise she saw Caroline and Victor holding Brady and Belle. Completely shocked but elated to see her babies, Marlena looked at John with tears in her eyes.

“John, what did you do?” she asked holding back her tears. Before he could answer, Carrie, Eric and Sami appeared from the side and waited for their mom to walk down the aisle.

“You deserve to have your family and friends at your wedding and so…” said John kneeling on one knee. “Marlena Evans Black, will you do me the honor of marrying me…again?”

Marlena’s head was spinning. All she wanted to do was run down the aisle, grab her children and hold them never letting go. As the tears fell down her face, she took John’s arm and slowly walked toward the altar. Marlena took this as an omen that a bright and promising future was just ahead.