What We Thought We Knew – Dayslove

“Samantha Brady you get up those stairs and brush your teeth!”

“But Dadddddddyyyyyyyy why doesn’t Eric have to?”

“Eric and I are finishing his homework he will when hes done, now scoot!” Roman said ushering his daughter to the stairs before returning to the dining room table to Eric.

 

***

“ISABELLA!!” Marlena cried as she became drenched in bathwater much to the chagrin of her 3 year old daughter. Belle found it to be incredibly amusing and was laughing hysterically.

“Momma weeet!” Belle laughed as Marlena grabbed for a towel to dry off her face and clothes.

“Yes, Momma is wet, I said No Splashing, Momma doesn’t need a bath…and the floor doesn’t need washing… Belle does, no more splashing!” Marlena explained as she grabbed the baby shampoo from the side of the tub to begin washing Belles hair.

“Mommy why do I have to get ready for bed first?” Sami whined as she entered the bathroom. Marlena rolled her eyes before answering.

“Sweetie why do we go through this every night? It doesn’t matter who goes first.” Marlena explained as she rinsed the shampoo out of Belles hair.

“Momma toowwel!” Belle cried as she covered her eyes with her hands as if she had soap in them but Marlena knew nothing came near her eyes., this was just the new thing she liked to do in the tub. Marlena wiped her eyes and turned her attention back to Sami who decided she was going to sit on the bathroom floor next to her mother.

“Sami… what are you doing?”

“Sitting here”

“Yes I can see that, now I heard your father tell you to brush your teeth so I suggest you begin doing so.” Marlena warned as she leaned in to kiss the top of Sami’s head. As Sami got up Belle created yet another splash, dropping the shampoo bottle into the tub, creating a bigger mess than before.

“That’s it missy your done!” Marlena exclaimed reaching for a towel.

“Nooo Done Noooo DONE Momma!” Belle cried in the tub. Marlena lifted Belle up and wrapped her into the towel, almost slipping on the water below as Belle kicked and wiggled in her arms. Marlena set Belle down when they reached Belle’s room to which Belle took off running naked down the hallway. When Marlena went into the hall after her she saw she had run right into Romans arms. Roman smirked at Marlena’s disheveled and wet appearance to which Marlena tossed the towel at he and Belle, it landed on their heads before she turned to clean up the pool in the bathroom.

 

“Are you giving Mommy a hard time Izzy B?”

“No all done in the baff” Belle explained in her fathers arms.

“Yes, all done for today, lets get you dressed” Roman took Belle into her room.

.

***

“Sami its my turn for the sink!” Eric cried pushing her out of the way. Marlena was on her knees in front of the tub when Eric pushed Sami into Marlena to which Sami started to cry.

Marlena closed her eyes and exhaled before standing up helping Sami up along with her.

“Eric Brady we do not push people in this house do you understand me?”

“But mom she already-“

“Ahh ah ah! I don’t want to hear it, there is no excuse for pushing your sister, now the two of you have been fighting all week and It needs to stop, you had better figure out a way to get along, because I will not stand for this constant bickering! Now Eric you apologize to your sister right now”

Eric muttered something under his breath.

“Eric?” she repeated sternly.

“Sorry” he said half heartedly. Sami stood with tears rolling down her cheek.

“Samantha, your done in here go to your room, Eric finish up and get to yours” Marlena explained as she went back to wiping up the water.

 

***

Marlena entered her bedroom to change out of her wet clothes. She reached into Romans drawer and pulled out one of his tee shirts and into her drawer for a pair of pajama pants. Her head was pounding and all she wanted to do was crawl into that bed. Slipping into her pajama pants she removed her wet shirt to replace it with Romans dry one and was standing in her bra when she heard Roman come into the room.

 

“Mmm mmm” he grinned as he took in his wife’s exposed midsection. Marlena rolled her eyes as she pulled the shirt over her head trying to hide her grin. Roman walked up and quickly took her into his arms dipping her body into a passionate kiss. Every thought flew out of her head as his kiss intensified. It wasn’t until a familiar voice spoke “Mommy” from the doorway that they broke apart. Still in the dipped position, they looked over to see Belle clutching a book in her hands. Marlena laughed as John helped her to stand upright.

“Momma you read to me?” Marlena smiled at her freshly cleaned daughter, her hair brushed in a way only Roman would do it, all snuggly in her pajamas.

“Of course baby girl” Marlena said as she reached down to pick her up. As she left she gave Roman a wink before turning the corner.

 

***

“Daddy? Can Kimberly come sleep over this weekend?” Sami asked as John tucked her in.

“I don’t know sweetie, we will have to see ok? Now you all tucked in?”

“Mmhumm” Sami said happily.

“Ok goodnight peanut, sweet dreams” He leaned in to kiss her as she wrapped her arms tightly around his neck.

“I love you Daddy” was whispered into his ear and his heart swelled.

“I love you more!” he spoke before leaving..

 

**

“Give Eric goodnight kisses” Marlena prompted as Belle climbed onto Eric’s bed. She left sloppy wet kisses all over his face much to Eric’s disgust.

“Ewww… Ok Goodnight Belle!” he said as he moved her off of him. Marlena laughed as she brushed his hair to the side.

“Goodnight sweetie, I love you”

“Love you too Mom”

 

**

 

Roman passed Marlena and Belle in the hallway.

“Hey there Pretty Ladies, Doc, Sami wants you to say goodnight to her”

“That’s where were headed, and Eric wants you” she explained as

“Ok, Night Izzy” he kissed both her and Belle before heading into Eric’s room.

 

**

A half and hour later Marlena walked downstairs and into the living room where Roman was watching TV. She plopped down next to him as he shut off the TV and handed her a glass of wine.

“I thought you might need this” he grinned as he took a sip of his beer.

“You read my mind” she said taking a sip.

“Everyone asleep?”

“mmmhumm, Finally” She said as she assumed the familiar position and turned to place her feet underneath his legs.

“Gotta love Bath night hu?” he laughed.

“Do I? Do I really?” she smiled resting her head on her hand that leaned against the couch.

“So how was your day?” he asked as he turned his body to face her.

“Busier than usual, with finishing the planning of this weekends benefit and me taking on Dr. Benton’s Patients while he’s out of town, work was a bit insane. How about you?”

“Pretty crazy day too, we got some big leads on the O’Donnell case, Abe and I were running around all day.”

“Well that’s good though isn’t it? Hopefully you can put an end to it” she spoke as she absentmindedly moved her feet back and forth under his legs, stifling a yawn.

“mm humm” He reached over and took the glass out of her hand.

“What are you doing?” She said confused as he moved her feet from under him moving her into the laying down position.

“Do you know how incredibly adorable you look when you wear my clothes?” he grinned as he leaned over her.

“No I had no idea” she laughed.

“Do you know how crazy you drive me when you come down smelling like baby shampoo and when you do that thing you did with your feet?” he asked hovering closer.

“I was not aware, but I hope your planning on showing me” she grinned.

“Oh baby, Ive got moves you’ve never seen!!” he said before diving into a deep kiss. Marlena quickly wrapped her arms around his neck not wanting it to end.

Marlena arched her back slightly as Roman left a trail of kisses down her neck. She moaned slightly as his breath warmed her skin. He looked down as her blonde hair fanned across the seat cushion, she looked so beautiful. Marlena longed for his lips and took his face in her hands as she pulled him back to her. Lost again in each others kiss, they were interrupted by the phone ringing. They broke apart and sighed. Roman lifted himself from her as he reached for the phone on the end table before it woke up the kids.

 

“Hello?” he said almost annoyed. Marlena sat up and adjusted herself running a hand through her hair.

“Tonight? …. Cant it wait till the morning?….you’ve got to be kidding?… no.. fine… yea I understand… see you.” Roman sighed as he turned back to Marlena.

“I don’t think I’m gonna like what ever that was about…” she said softly.

“It was Abe.. I have to go into the station, they arrested a key suspect for the case and I have to question him tonight- it’s a long story, I’m sorry baby” he explained brushing a stray hair from her face.

“Its ok…when do you think you’ll be home?”

“I have no idea…but don’t wait up” Marlena sighed as he leaned in and kissed her quickly before getting up to leave.

“I’ll lock the door behind me”

“Be Careful” she called after him.

“Always” he said as he winked before closing the door.

 

**

 

The next morning Marlena rolled over in bed reaching for Roman. Her eyes opened when her hand hit her pillow instead. Looking over at the clock she saw it said 6:22, she sighed knowing it was just moments before the alarm would blare and another school and work day would begin. She sat up and realized Roman had never come home at all. Reaching for the phone she intended on calling the station. Before she could dial Roman entered the room.

“Hey Doc” Marlena was startled but smiled widely at his presence.

“Hey you… are you just getting in?” Roman nodded as he kicked off his shoes and collapsed onto the bed next to her.

“Oh you poor thing, what happened? Why were you there so late?”

“Doc…Can we not talk about it? I’m so tired”

“Sure..” Marlena laid down next to him and covered him with the blanket. She watched as his eyes closed as suddenly as he had laid down. She smiled as she ran her hand through his hair. The quiet morning ended with the blaring alarm clock that she had forgotten to shut off which caused Roman to stir. She turned off the alarm clock as well as the ringer to the phone.

“Get some sleep baby” she whispered. Knowing it was a matter of moments before of one of the kids entered the room she rose from bed and slipped on her robe as she exited the room.

 

**

“Mommy, I cant find my picture for show and tell” Sami explained as she entered the kitchen.

“Baby you left it in the living room by your book bag” Marlena said as she carried Belle on her hip as she poured cereal with her free hand.

“Mom… can I go to Christopher’s house after school.” Eric asked as he ate his cereal.

“Did he invite you?” Marlena asked setting Belle into the highchair.

“Not yet” Eric answered and Marlena couldn’t help but laugh.

“Well unless Chris’s parents say its ok, you cant just invite yourself sweetie.”

“Mommy I found it!!” Sami exclaimed happily as she sat down at the table with her brother.

“I told you it was there…” Marlena set Belles breakfast in front of her as she walked over to the coffee pot for herself. She didn’t know how it was possible for her to feel so exhausted so soon in her day but she was.

“Belle NO!” Eric scolded his little sister. Marlena turned around to see what was going on.

“Mom shes throwing her cereal at me” he explained.

“Isabella! No throwing food. Now eat up” She sat down at the table with the kids and rested her head in her hands.

“Is Daddy still sleeping?” Sami asked

“Daddy just got to bed actually, he had to go back to work last night.” Marlena looked at the clock.

“Oh guys! Your gonna miss the bus, go on and grab your things”

 

Moments later they returned with their coats and back packs on.

“Have a good day guys, I love you, see you tonight” She said as she kissed each of them as they exited the kitchen door. Turning her attention back to Belle who had made quite the mess.

“Ok Isabella, lets get you and me cleaned up.”

“Belle go to school too?” Marlena reached down and took her into her arms.

“Yes, your going to school too, lets go get ready” she said kissing her daughters head.

 

**

“Yes that’s fine, I have a patient at 1:30 tomorrow but I’ll be in the meeting before 3:00….ok.. see you then” Marlena hung up her phone as she sat at her desk. Her head was pounding and she felt awful. She had no time what so ever to be coming down with anything so she decided whatever this feeling was just needed to stop. Looking back at her papers she realized she had read the same line about 5 times now. “Focus Marlena” she said out loud as she made another attempt at the papers in front of her. Her focus was interrupted by a knock on the door.

“Come in” she called from her desk.

“Is now a bad time?” said the red-haired woman peering around the door.

“Maggie!” Marlena said happily, “Never a bad time for you!” Marlena rose quickly from her chair and lost her balance. She grabbed onto the desk to steady herself.

“Marlena are you alright?” Maggie asked concerned.

“Yea, yea I’m fine, just stood up too fast!… what brings you by?” Marlena asked kissing her friend on the cheek.

“Well I was next door in Sue Clinton’s office…about the benefit Friday, and I thought I’d stop by and see you… your secretary wasn’t there so I just knocked”

“Well isn’t that a nice surprise, Yes Kelly is out to lunch… and yea everyone’s busier than ever with that benefit, a lot of things are riding on the money raised that night” Their conversation was interrupted with the phone ringing. Marlena excused herself before answering. “Dr. Evans” Maggie watched as Marlena’s face went pale as she listened to the person on the other end. “Yes I am his mother….Is he alright?… WHAT?…Oh God! What hospital are you taking him to?”

Marlena raced downstairs to the emergency room with her heart in her throat. She rushed to the admitting desk begging for answers as Maggie came up behind her.

“Has a 7 year old boy been brought in yet? Eric Brady? The school said they were bringing him here…” Marlena asked her voice trembling with fear. The nurse looked down at her files.

 

“I’m sorry he hasn’t, if you want to take a seat in the waiting room we can tell-“

 

“I don’t want to sit!, I want someone to find my son!” she shouted as Maggie wrapped her arms around Marlena’s shoulders walking away from the desk.

 

“Sweetie he’ll get here, now what did they say on the phone?”

 

“They said- They said… he had an accident at recess and that he hit his head and they were bringing him here.” Marlena could no longer control the emotion in her voice as tears sprang from her eyes. Maggie pulled her into a hug but Marlena quickly pulled away.

 

“Roman!… Do you think they called Roman?… I have to call him” Marlena left to call him as they wheeled Eric through the doors.

 

“MARLENA! He’s here!” Maggie called after her. Marlena spun around in her tracks as she rushed to the gurney carrying her son.

 

“Eric! Sweetie, Mommy is here!” she said trying not to cry at the sight of blood on her sons face. He was awake and began to cry as soon as Marlena went to him. Marlena went along the quick pace down the hall with the gurney to an exam room where they were met by a doctor.

“What happened?” Marlena asked the EMT.

“He was unconscious when we arrived, a witness said he had climbed the jungle gym and that’s where he fell.” The woman described. Marlena brought a hand to her mouth. She looked over to see him start to close his eyes.

“Come on Eric… Remember what we told you in the ambulance? You gotta stay awake buddy!” Explained the EMT.

“Mommy?” he cried.

“Yes baby, I’m right here… Don’t be afraid.”

“Ok we have to take him up to CT, get a brain scan, and an X-ray on the wrist, its starting to swell.” The doctor ordered as the nurses wheeled the gurney back out.

“Mrs. Brady, If you’ll wait down here…” The doctor stopped her.

“Its Dr. Evans and I’m going upstairs with my son.” She corrected.

 

As she turned the corner she saw Maggie again.

“Marlena, Roman will be here any minute, I called him for you.”

“Oh Maggie thanks, tell him were up in X-Ray and-“ Marlena stopped and bent forward slightly putting a hand to her mouth.

“Marlena?” With out a word Marlena took off into the ambulance bay where she got sick in the nearest garbage can. Just then police sirens pulled into the bay and Roman leaped out of the car. He almost walked past Marlena until he heard the sound of someone throwing up.

 

“Oh my God! DOC!?? What is it?” He said rushing to her. Marlena was mortified that she was doing this in public. She stood and wiped her mouth as Roman wrapped his arms around her.

 

“Doc? What happened? Is it Eric?” he asked, the fear evident in his voice.

 

“I don’t know- I was fine but all of a sudden I was sick to my stomach… Roman he’s up in X-Ray… he might have a concussion…he had blood all over” She recalled as the tears re-formed in her eyes.

 

“Ok… lets get you some water or something.” He said as he helped her inside.

“No, Roman I’m fine, someone needs to go up there with him, He’s scared…”

“Fine, I’ll go up there, you just sit here and try to relax, you’ve made yourself sick with worrying.” Marlena couldn’t argue with him and she wasn’t so sure she was done being sick, so she sat in the waiting room as Roman left for upstairs.

 

**

 

Hours later Marlena sat in the hospital room with Eric.

 

“Mommy it still hurts.” He complained adjusting his wrist that now had a cast on it.

“I know it does sweetie…but give the medicine time to work.” She said brushing his blonde hair from his eyes careful not to disturb the bandage on his forehead.

“I’m sorry I got you and daddy so scared”

“Don’t be sorry, accidents happen, We’re just so glad your ok now” She added kissing him.

“Where did daddy go?”

“He called to check on Sami and Belle, Mrs. Horton is watching them at our house.”

 

“Hey slugger…you ready to get outta here?” Roman said entering the room with the doctor.

“I can go home?”

“Yep! Your mom and dad are gonna keep an eye on you, and if you start to feel sick they are going to bring you back here… but everything looks ok for now” the doctor explained. Marlena sighed with relief but the pounding in her head did not let up. Roman walked over to help Eric out of bed as Marlena rose from the stool she was sitting on. She went to take a step but felt dizzy and gripped the side of the bed. This did not go unnoticed by Roman.

 

“Doc? Are you sure your feeling alright?” he said concerned as the nurse began to wheel Eric to the door in the wheelchair.

“Umm… yea I’m just a little shaky.. I didn’t eat anything all day now that I think of it.”

Roman inspected her but believed she was right and just worn out from the day. He wrapped his arm around her shoulders as they followed Eric out.

“ROMAN! Slow down this isn’t a police chase, and Eric is asleep!” Marlena demanded as she held onto the door handle.

 

“Doc, I’m going the speed limit” he explained matter-of-factly.

 

“If you were you wouldn’t have had to just slam on the breaks!” She snapped back. Roman looked over to her confused as to what she was even talking about but decided they were both much too tired and it was far too silly a thing to argue about.

 

“Well no worries, were home now!” He stated sarcastically as he pulled into the driveway. Marlena rolled her eyes at him before exiting the car. Roman carried Eric into the house, as he was sound asleep.

 

**

Entering the house Roman walked right upstairs with Eric as Sami came running out of the kitchen with Alice Horton behind her.

 

“Mommy!!!!!” She cried running into Marlena wrapping her arms around her waist.

 

“Woahhh! Easy sweetie” she said stumbling back.

 

“Where’s Eric? Is he ok? Does he have a cast? Is it a color? Did it hurt when they did it? Did he cry? Is he sleeping?” Sami rattled as Marlena’s head spun.

 

“Sami darling, give your mother a minute to settle in before you attack her.” Mrs. Horton said receiving a grateful smile from Marlena. Marlena loosened Sami’s hold on her as she took her over to the couch.

 

“Eric is gonna be fine, he has a cast on his wrist, and he’s asleep… speaking of, you should be too missy, its 9:30!”

 

“Yes, I’m sorry but she wouldn’t go to sleep until you all were home, Belle is sound asleep though.” Alice explained.

 

“Oh Good but no need for sorry, I figured Sami would wait up.” Marlena added as she ran her hands through Samantha’s long pony tail.

 

“But Mom can I go see him?”

 

“Yes, but don’t wake him, Daddy is up there with him.” Sami gave Marlena a quick kiss before bounding up the stairs. Marlena leaned her elbows on her knees and her face in her hands as she exhaled slowly before turning her attention to Alice,

 

“Alice, Thank you so much for staying with the girls today…”

 

“Oh my goodness, no need for thanks, I’m just glad I could help, Eric gave us quite a scare there…” Alice explained. Marlena ran her hands over her face before responding.

 

“Your not kidding…. When I got that call…. And then when I saw him come in…I- I” Marlena bit her lip to fight the tears that wanted to come.

 

“I know darling, It’s the worst feeling in the world, but thank goodness he’s going to be alright.” Alice said as she ran a hand up and down Marlena’s arm. “Marlena dear are you feeling alright besides that? You look a little pale” Marlena turned to her and gave a half hearted smile before responding.

 

“No actually I’m not… I think I’m coming down with something, I’m just so tired lately and I got sick at the hospital earlier. To be honest I haven’t felt like myself recently” Alice put the back of her hand to Marlena’s forehead like only a mother would as she looked at her skeptically trying to hide her grin.

 

“Well you don’t have a fever, but you had better get up to bed and rest, we need you to be ready to go for Friday’s hospital benefit.” Marlena nodded knowing full well how much this money would mean to the Horton Foundation and the Hospital. With that Roman came into the living room.

 

“Ya know Alice I think I’m going to take you up on that sleep idea right now, Thank you again for everything, I’ll talk to you tomorrow.” Marlena leaned in and kissed her cheek before deliberately walking past Roman and up the stairs.

 

Roman turned to Alice perplexed as to Marlena’s sudden exit.

“What did I do?” he asked Alice.

“Nothing that I’m aware of, but I know she said she hasn’t been feeling well.” Alice explained as she grabbed her purse.

“She said that to you?” he said confused.

“Yes she said she hasn’t felt like herself lately.” She added as they walked over to the front door.

“Yeah… now that you mention it she was sick at the hospital and then the other day she was saying how-“ Roman stopped dead in his tracks as his jaw opened slightly. Alice grinned at his possible realization.

“Roman dear are you alright?” Alice laughed.

“Uh.. I . uh…I just realized.. I mean…It sounds like she’s…do you think she could be…I just thought it was…but…” he stammered.

“Goodnight Roman” Alice said through her laughter as she kissed him goodbye leaving him in a daze. Roman stared a moment at the closed door. He turned around and looked at the empty living room then up towards the stairs. After a minute he grinned and ran to the stairs taking them two at a time.

Roman entered their bedroom and saw that Marlena was already in bed. He didn’t know what to do or say. Deciding to test the waters he walked over to his side of the bed and sat down turning his body to face Marlena. Her eyes were closed but he knew she was not sleeping.

 

“Doc?” he asked softly. Her eyes remained closed as she murmured “What” to him.

 

“I just wanted to see if you were feeling ok, Alice said you still weren’t feeling good….and you said that you hadn’t eaten anything so… if you want me to get you something I could.” He offered. Marlena opened her eyes and smiled at him.

 

“Your sweet” She whispered. “but at this point I think I just need to get some sleep.” She explained as she tucked her arm underneath the pillow. Roman hesitated a moment. He wanted to ask her, he wondered if she even suspected it, did she know and just wasn’t telling him? Or was this just nothing and he was being suspicious for no reason.

 

“So you’re not mad at me?” he asked instead of what he really wanted to know.

 

“When did I say I was mad?” she asked

 

“Well I just mean that before you were clearly … annoyed with me.. and to be honest I have no idea why.” He explained. Marlena sighed as she really had no answer, she didn’t have a reason.

 

“I’m sorry, I’m not mad…but please Roman, can we just talk tomorrow?” She asked as her eyes struggled to stay opened. Maybe she was just coming down with something. Maybe it was the flu, or maybe she’s just been really stressed out lately with the kids and work and everything.. “Sure.. night” he said leaning and kissing her softly on the lips. She barely responded and was soon falling asleep. He was left wondering until tomorrow.

 

Three hours later both Roman and Marlena were sound asleep. When two little feet approached the foot of their bed.

“Mom?… Dad?” Eric asked softy not receiving a response from either parent. He walked over to Romans side of the bed and shook him gently as tears were forming in his eyes.

 

“Dad?…Daddy?..” Roman woke with a start, sitting up in bed.

 

“What is it champ? You ok?” Eric silently shook his head no as his tears released themselves.

 

“It hurts Dad…it hurts a lot…” he explained louder as his tears fell harder to which Marlena sat up abruptly in bed.

 

“Ohh come here…” Roman helped Eric into bed in-between he and Marlena.

 

“Sweetie where does it hurt?” Marlena asked as she caressed her sons cheek.

 

“All over…and my wrist… and this stupid cast..” he sniffled.

 

“Yea, the doctor said you would be sore, Why don’t I go get you some more Tylenol..” Roman said as he kissed the top of Eric’s head before leaving.

 

“Come here sweetie” Marlena said as she leaned back on the pillows as Eric snuggled close to her. She wrapped one arm protectively around him as the other wiped the tears from his face. She hated to see her baby in such pain.

 

“Mom… when is it gonna stop hurting?”

 

“Soon honey…I promise, your dad is gonna get you some medicine and then you can get some rest..” she said suppressing her yawn. With that Roman returned with juice and medicine in hand. After taking it Eric looked to both of his parents, “Can I sleep in here with you guys tonight?” They looked at each other and grinned.

 

“Sure sweetie…” Marlena answered as she moved over to make more room for the three of them. For a boy who spent most of his days trying to show he was tough and growing up, he was extremely content in his parents embrace.

 

“Got enough of the pillow slugger?” Roman asked as he settled into the bed.

 

“Mmm hmm” Eric responded leaning his head on Romans shoulder as the two tried to go back to sleep. Marlena looked over at her two boys and smiled as she too tried to go back to sleep.

The next morning, Roman was cooking breakfast as Sami was making her final pleas to stay home from school.

“But Daddy I can help Mommy take care of Eric…”

“Samantha we’ve been through this, your going to school, I’m going to work and your mom and Eric are staying home.. end of discussion… now can you go tell everyone breakfast is ready?” Sami sighed in defeat before walking out the kitchen door. Moments later Marlena entered dressed in jeans and a sweatshirt, a departure from the business suite she would normally be wearing at this time of morning. Belle followed closely behind her rushing to try and help herself into her booster seat.

“Roman… Since I’m going to be home today with Eric, there’s no sense sending Belle to Daycare so I’m gonna keep her here too” Roman nodded and thought it was lucky Sami was not there to hear that announcement because it surly would have been another 20 minutes of her trying to stay home too. Seeing Belle was unsuccessful in her attempts Marlena bent over to help her up then took the seat next to her.

“Ok everyone pancakes are served.” Roman announced proudly as he reached across Marlena and set the plates onto the kitchen table. Pulling away he leaves a kiss on Marlena’s cheek.

 

“Dig in Doc, you must be starving.” He said as he surveyed her reaction.

 

“Mmm humm that I am… they look delicious… do we have coffee?” she said digging into her pancakes. Roman looked at her a little confused, clearly she was feeling better.

 

“Yea I’ll get it, and I’ll go bring Eric his breakfast.” Roman poured two cups of coffee and handed them to Marlena. She smiled in thanks and turned back to eating. Roman didn’t move though he surveyed her trying to see if he noticed anything different. Sensing he was still next to her she turned back confused.

 

“What?” she asked breaking Roman’s stare.

 

“Um nothing…I’m just glad your feeling better… you are aren’t you?” he asked still studying her.

 

“So far so good… why do you keep starring at me?”

 

“I’m not… I’m gonna go bring Eric his pancakes…” he explained leaving.

Marlena shook her head in confusion as she turned to help Belle with her food. As she finished cutting up Belle’s breakfast and reached for her coffee. She brought the cup inches from her mouth and immediately set it down on the table nauseated from the smell. Sami saw her and quickly questioned her.

 

“Does it smell funny mommy?” she asked innocently. Marlena held one hand to her mouth as she tried to fight the waves of nausea that flew through her.

 

“Watch your sister” Marlena managed to get out before flying out the kitchen down to the hall bathroom. A moment later Roman entered and noticed she was gone.

 

“Daddy I think the coffee made mommy sick she just ran out of here.” Sami explained. Roman got a pit in his stomach as he left to check on her.

 

**

She stood over the sink washing cold water over her face. She knew it but she didn’t want to admit it. She had to be. A gentle knock on the door came before Roman opened it. Peering is head around the door he saw her lean against the sink counter. Her arms wrapped across her chest to face him. He stepped in and closed the door behind him.

“Sweetie you ok?” He asked walking towards her. She said nothing just stared blankly at him as he rubbed his hand gently up and down her arm. She couldn’t speak as a million thoughts ran through her head and the waves of nausea still lingered. Roman hesitated but then decided to go for it.

 

“Marlena…do you think that maybe… you could be…”

 

“Pregnant” She finished for him. His breath got caught in his throat as he didn’t know if she was telling him or asking him.

 

“Are you?” he implored. She exhaled sharply as she ran her hands over her face.

 

“I don’t know… but It’s a pretty safe bet…. It would certainly explain a lot” A smile quickly appeared on Romans face but he saw she was not having the same reaction.

 

“Well, how long have you suspected it” he asked.

 

“To be honest? Until 5 minutes ago I didn’t!… I knew I haven’t been myself the past few weeks but I just assumed it was the stress of everything lately… and then yesterday with Eric and at the hospital when I got sick .. I just assumed it was that or a bug… I honestly never thought about it until now…It all makes sense though.. I’ve been moody and exhausted and dizzy and nauseous!!… Did I need a brick to fall on my head!? ” she rattled on and exclaimed as he pulled her into his arms.

 

“Hey hey… come on now… look why don’t we find out for sure… I mean maybe your right, maybe its just stress or… something”

 

“Roman, I know it… I don’t know why I didn’t want to admit it before but now that I think about it… this is just like…”

 

“When you were pregnant with Belle… I thought the same thing” he finished for her

 

“You thought I was pregnant?… Is that why you were acting so funny before?” She asked pulling away from his embrace.

 

“Well like you said I didn’t suspect it… until I was talking to Alice last night… when she said how you were feeling and it just reminded me of when we found out you were pregnant with Belle!” Marlena sighed but a smile slowly appeared on her lips recalling how she broke the news to him 3 years ago.

 

“I bet Alice knew…she always knows” Marlena added running a hand through her hair. Roman pulled her back to him, his arms wrapping around her waist and their eyes met.

 

“Doc… If you are pregnant… why do I feel like you might not be happy about it… you said you didn’t want to admit it” Marlena broke her eye contact and stared at a spot on his shirt.

 

“Its not that I wouldn’t be happy Roman….its just our lives are crazy right now… sometimes I feel I can barely handle the three children we have, four when Carrie stays with us… and now were going to bring another one into all this?” Their conversation was interrupted when Sami opened the bathroom door to find her parents in their embrace.

 

“Daddy… I think I missed the school bus… and I tried to give Belle more milk but it spilled all over the floor” She exclaimed. Roman glanced at his watch seeing the late hour.

 

“Oh Boy… ok kid-o go grab your stuff I’ll drive you in…” he explained as he broke apart from Marlena and ushered Sami to the door as Marlena followed behind.

 

Arriving in the kitchen they saw Belle was struggling to get herself down off her booster seat not having liked being left alone.

 

“Momma Sami made a mess!” Belle explained as she was picked up into her mother’s arms.

 

“Its ok… I’ll clean it up.” Marlena explained kissing the top of her head before setting her back down. Sami stood ready to go as Roman grabbed his keys.

 

“Listen… I’ll drop her off and Ill go to the pharmacy… and Ill be back” Roman explained as he took Marlena’s face in his hands and kissed her quickly on the lips.

 

“But Roman your going to be late for work… just go… its fine”

 

“No… its not… Ill be back” he said kissing her again before leaving. Marlena sighed.

 

“Bye sweetie have a good day” she said kissing Sami as she walked to the kitchen door closing it behind both of them.

 

**

 

An hour or so later Roman entered his bedroom looking for Marlena and found her in the bathroom sitting on the edge of the tub.

“Eric is asleep and Belle is in her room playing” Roman explained for lack of anything better. Marlena nodded as she nervously fiddled with her wedding rings. “How much longer?” he asked sitting down next to her on the tub.

 

“A minute…” she explained as she stared at the timer on the counter. “I don’t know why I’m so nervous… Its not like I haven’t done this before…” she added as she rubbed her hands back and forth until Roman took them into his. Wordlessly she turned and met his eyes. The connection she felt when she looked into them was like nothing she had ever felt before. There in his eyes the world was right. The dinging of the timer caused both to move their stare to the counter. Marlena looked back at Roman and took a sharp breath before rising.

“Here goes…” she said as she reached for the tiny stick. She stared a moment and then looked at the box. Romans heart was pounding as he sat nervously waiting for her reaction. She turned back to look at him as a huge smile spread across her face.

“I’m pregnant!” She exclaimed as she started to laugh through the tears that formed in her eyes. With out a word Roman leaped up devouring her in his arms capturing her lips with full force.

“I’m pregnant!” She exclaimed as she started to laugh through the tears that formed in her eyes. With out a word Roman leaped up devouring her in his arms capturing her lips with full force.

 

Breaking apart slowly from their kiss he stared into her eyes. He had no words for how she made him feel. They had been through so much and yet their love, their bond stood strong through it all. Anything Stephano or life had thrown at them, nothing could change the way she made him feel just by the touch of her hand or the look in her eyes. She was his rock, his anchor… his soul. Now they were having another baby together and he could not be happier about it.

 

When he looked at her, she could feel him reading her every thought, her every emotion. In his eyes she found strength, wisdom, devotion but most of all love. She saw in his eyes a look of love she had never experienced with any other man. To be honest, it began when they found out John Black was in fact Roman Brady. Sure when Roman and her first met there was a love there, but when Roman returned as the man she had known to be John Black, everything changed their love was stronger than ever. She had always assumed it was because after seeing how quickly things could change, how precious life really is, she vowed not to take him for granted. Getting Roman back, starting their lives with the twins, having Belle and now this baby was a happiness Marlena couldn’t express in words.

 

After a few moments lost in each other’s eyes and in their own thoughts Marlena was the first to break the silence. She began, letting out a small sigh.

 

“Were gonna have another baby!… are we insane?” She laughed Roman grinned from ear to ear as he nodded.

 

“Probably…. But I’ve never been happier. I love you so much Doc.” He pulled her back into him hovering over her lips before letting them land. After a kiss that took her breath away he pulled back and gently stroked her cheek.

 

“I’m so sorry baby but I have to get into the station… you gonna be ok?”

 

“You give me a kiss like that and just expect me to let you leave?” she grinned.

 

“You know I would love to stay here all day with you, but were on the verge of closing the-

 

“Case … I know… It’s fine …We can finish this tonight… I love you”

 

“I’m gonna hold you to that!” he laughed kissing her once more before he left. Marlena stood alone a moment and stared back at the sink counter, looking at the tiny stick that changed there lives. Instinctively she placed her hands on her stomach as she glanced down at her non existent belly. She couldn’t help but smile at the thought of the life growing inside her. A life her and Roman’s love created.

 

**

It was a few days later and the afternoon of the Hospital Benefit. Marlena was in Sami’s room attempting to pack an overnight bag, but Belle was choosing this time to be extremely clingy. Isabella was the spitting image of her mother just as Samantha was. The difference between them was that while Samantha was most of the time 100% a Daddy’s girl, Belle was most often a Mama’s Girl. Marlena attempted to move around the bedroom but Belle had grabbed onto Marlena’s leg as she sat on her foot.

 

“Baby Girl, you cant do this… Mommy needs to finish getting you guys packed for Grandma and Grandpa’s.” she explained trying to pry her daughter from her leg and foot.

 

“No” Belle announced matter-of-factly as she held on tighter.

 

“Yes!… Why don’t you go get your dolls ready to bring with you.”

 

“No… I want to stay wiff you” she stated. Marlena was losing her patience as she still had a million things to do for herself and everything else before tonight.

 

“Fine then why don’t you help me and not sit on me…” she said lifting her into her arms. Belle immediately nuzzled her head into the crook of Marlena’s neck and Marlena couldn’t help but melt at the feeling. Seeing the time she realized Belle had missed her afternoon nap and her clinginess was probably due to her being tired. Rubbing lazy circles on her back she walked Belle into her and Roman’s bedroom figuring she could lay Belle down as Marlena got things done.

 

“Sweetie wanna lay down on mommy’s bed for a while?” Belle said nothing but moved her head from side to side wrapping her arms tightly around her mothers neck. Marlena sat on the bed and tried to get Belle to release her grip.

 

“Mommy lay down wiff me and read?” Belle implored looking her deep blue eyes up into her mother’s hazel. She didn’t have time, no time at all, but she could not say no to those eyes… her father’s eyes.

 

“Ok you go get the book and we can read together…” Marlena gave in kissing her daughter’s cheek. In Belle’s absence Marlena checked her evening gown, shoes and other items for that night making sure she wasn’t missing anything. Happily moments later Belle returned with her favorite book in hand. Reaching for her mother to help her onto the bed she quickly snuggled up into the pillows. Marlena slid in next to her as Belle moved closer to her body.

 

“You ready?” Marlena asked brushing the stray blonde curls from Belle’s eyes. With an approving nod she began…..

 

“I’ll Love You Forever, I’ll Like you for always, as long as I’m living my baby you’ll be” Marlena spoke those words as the tears stung her eyes. Looking down at her youngest child she smiled to see her sound asleep in her arms. No matter how many times she read that book… that line got her every time. Marlena should have gotten up and finished getting ready, but she didn’t. She steadiness of Belles breathing and her own exhaustion was soon taking over as her eyes began to flutter…

Eric came bursting through the front door as Sami came in yelling behind him.

“Errrrrrrrrriiiiiicccc! I SAID GIVE IT BACK!” She squealed. Eric ran around the opposite side of the couch with her art project in hand threatening to break it at any moment.

 

“NOPE!” He cried as he continued to run away from her around the living room. Roman entered with a garment bag, a briefcase and the mail in his hand. With one fluid motion he dropped what he was carrying scooped Eric up with his right arm and took the art project away from him with is left. Dangling at Romans side Eric began to laugh.

 

“Eric… how many times do I have to tell you not to tease your sister.. she worked hard on this project and you wouldn’t like it if she had something of yours…and might I also remind you that you have a cast on your arm and you still have to take it easy…so no more running around. Got it?” becoming increasingly uncomfortable with his position Eric agreed and Roman set him down.

 

“Wheres mommy? I wanna show her what I made…” Sami asked.

 

“I dunno…I just walked in when you did kido.” Sami and Eric both took off for upstairs as Roman picked up his belongings that lay scattered on the front hall.

**

Neither Belle nor Marlena’s slumber was interrupted by the yelling down stairs as the two laid peacefully in each others arms. That soon ended when Sami let go a bellowing “MOMMY?” as she entered Marlena’s bedroom causing them both to jump.

 

“What!.. Whats the matter?” She asked as she sat up in bed.

 

“Nuthin… I just didn’t know where you were…Why were you sleeping?” Sami inquired as she climbed up into bed. Belle, still disorientated from being woken up climbed onto and straddled Marlena’s lap, resting her head on her mothers chest.

 

“Uhh.. I didn’t realize I feel asleep… I was reading to Belle…” Marlena glanced over at the clock that read 4:30. “Oh my gosh… I have to get ready… Where’s your daddy?” Marlena asked as she pried Belle off of her and rose from bed.

 

“Downstairs.. but mommy I wanna show you what I made at the Art Club after school today…” Sami begged as she stood up on the bed reaching her mothers height eye to eye. Sighing a moment Marlena smiled gaining perspective on what really mattered at that moment, her daughter not the extra five minutes she would spend fixing her hair. Wrapping her arms around Sami giving her full attention.

 

“I would love to see what you made… show me” Marlena explained which cased Sami to grin from ear to ear.

 

“Follow me!… I just hid it in my room cus Eric tried to break it and daddy yelled at him and then….” Sami rattled on as she took her mother by the hand leading her to her bedroom with Belle following closely behind.

**

Downstairs Roman was on the phone in the living room.

“Are you sure you don’t mind because we could just as easily drop them off on the way?… really?… ok then that’s a huge help… see ya then… love you too ma” Roman hung up the phone as Marlena came down the stairs with Eric at her side talking a mile a minute.

 

“And so all the kids signed my cast today.. and it was really funny what this one kid wrote…” he explained pointing to the spot on the cast. Marlena glanced at it and then did a double take looking wide eyed at his cast.

 

“Eric Brady!!.Why would you let someone write that on you? You know you have to walk around with that on you all the time?” Eric laughed despite his mother’s reaction.

 

“Daddy thought it was funny.. don’t you?” he questioned. Marlena glared at Roman who was trying not to laugh knowing he was gonna be in trouble.

 

“Unlike your father I do not find any form of bathroom humor funny…and I don’t think Grandma and Grandpa will find it amusing this weekend either, So why don’t you go find a sticker or something to put over that part of the cast….Daddy will help you” She said smirking as she lead Eric towards Roman.

 

“But mom!—“

 

“No Buts… or any other bodily noises… now scoot!” She expressed to her son and husband. Eric pouted on his way upstairs as Roman avoided Marlena’s stare. She stood facing him with her arms across her chest when he finally locked eyes with her.

 

“In the future I’d appreciate if you wouldn’t encourage that kind of humor or behavior from our son…” Deciding he did not want to get into the ‘your making a big deal out of nothing’ argument with her, instead he stepped towards her and placed his hands on her arms.

 

“I’m sorry” he said smiling his million dollar smile. She hated that he could do that to her. One smile from him, one smirk and look at his dimples and she was helpless. Trying her best to fight his effect on her she pulled away and changed the subject.

 

“Did you get your Tux?” she said as she picked up the twins coats and belongings that lay scattered on the living room floor.

 

“Yes, I got it after I picked up the twiners, and Ma said she will be here soon to pick everyone up…but how was your day?” he asked as he helped her pick up the mess that was made in just moments of the twins being home. Marlena sighed as she ran a hand through her hair.

 

“Well…After my last patient this morning and before I picked up Belle…I went to see Dr. Ross” she began as she sat at the edge of the couch. This sparked Romans attention as he turned and sat next to her.

 

“And??” he asked cautiously. She paused a moment before nervously continuing.

 

“Well… Were definitely pregnant…I’m six weeks along and I’m due December 17th!”

 

“A Christmas baby hu!?” Roman grinned instantly as he took her face in his hands and kissed her. Pulling apart slowly. Marlena began “ But Roman I don’t want to tell anyone about the baby yetThe moment of silence was quickly interrupted when all three kids came bounding down the stairs.

 

“Daddy!!” Belle squealed as she ran towards her fathers arms.

 

“Heyyy Izzy B!” he beamed as he pulled her onto his lap.Sami took her seat in-between Marlena and Roman as Eric sat down next to Marlena and showed her his newly decorated cast.

 

“Is this better mom?” Marlena smiled as she looked at the Power Ranger stickers that covered his cast.

 

“Much!.. Thank you sweetie”

 

“Mommy when are you gonna wear your fancy dress? Sami asked. Marlena glanced down at her watch.

 

“I should have been in the shower an hour ago” Marlena laughed suddenly not alarmed by how late they would be to the benefit.

 

“Can I see you in it?” Sami asked again.

 

“I think you’ll-“ Marlena began but was interrupted by the doorbell.

 

“I think that’s Grandma!.. Lets go see Izzy…” Roman rose with Belle in his arms going towards the front door.

 

“Hello!!!!” Caroline exclaimed happily as Belle excitedly reached out for her grandmothers arms.

 

“Gaaamma! Gammaa!” Belle shouted joined by her brother and sister.

 

“Oh hello Sweet Girl!” Caroline beamed as she took Belle into her arms and was bombarded by hugs from Sami and Eric.

 

“Hey Ma” Roman said sneaking in a kiss on her cheek.

 

“ Hello darling… hello everyone!” she said slightly overwhelmed by her welcome.

 

“Guys give Grandma Caroline some room to come in!” Marlena suggested as she too greeted her mother in law.

 

“Well what a wonderful welcome !” Caroline expressed as she set Belle down.

 

“Wheres Grandpa?” Eric asked.

 

“Hes at the Pub waiting for us… we have quite the weekend planned for you kids.”

 

“Cool!” Sami and Eric exclaimed. Caroline turned her attention to Marlena and Roman.

 

“Shouldn’t you two be getting ready?” she asked as they looked back guilty.

 

“Yes…a while ago” Marlena laughed “ We might be taking fashionably late to a new level….So I’m gonna get in the shower… Roman their bags are all packed and upstairs, Caroline thank you so much for this… and you guys be good for Grandma and Grandpa… I love you so much!” She said bending down to kiss them all before scurrying upstairs.

**

Marlena stood in her robe as she tested the shower water temperature with her hand. Deciding it was just right she removed her robe and stepped inside the shower. She couldn’t get over how tired she felt despite her nap with Belle. And to be honest she wanted to be anywhere else but at that hospital benefit. Knowing they would have the house to themselves she would love nothing more than a quiet evening at home with Roman. But she knew she had responsibilities and knew people were counting on her to be there. The water hit her body hard easing the tension in her neck and back. She was lost in her thoughts until she felt a cold breeze hit her body. Looking over her shoulder she grinned at the sight before her.

“And just what do you think your doing?” Marlena asked coyly.

 

“Well you said we were gonna be late… So I figured we could save time If we showered together.” Roman replied seriously. Marlena raised an eyebrow to him as he stepped in closer and reached for the soap.

 

“When has showering together EVER Saved us time?” Marlena grinned as Roman moved her aside as he stepped into the water continuing his act.

 

“Doc… I can control myself sometimes you know. I know we can’t be late to this thing.” He added straight faced as he began washing himself. Marlena chuckled knowing it wouldn’t be long before they were all over each other.

 

“Fine… can you pass the shampoo then?” She asked. Keeping his eyes up he passed it to her as he continued to go about his business. This was driving her crazy. She watched as every muscle his tight sculpted back moved as he washed himself. He turned to face her as the water washed the soap off his back. He began to rub the soap across his broad chest with acting as if he was alone in the shower. Just as she was about to reach out to him he turned back to wash the soap off his front. She watched in amazement that he was keeping up this farce. She didn’t see the point but she figured two could play at this game and he would lose. Grabbing his hips from behind she pulled him towards her and left a heavy breath on his neck, but simply moved him out of the way so she could step into the water. He pretended to be unaffected but that soon changed as he watched her. Deliberately turning to face him she took her body wash and poured it into her shower puff working it into a lather. Though he tried to avert his eyes determined to prove his point he was captivated by her. With heavy eyes she slowly worked the lather around her neck…onto her shoulders … down each arm then stopping towards her full breasts. She cupped them with her left hand as her right began massaging them with the body wash. She was playing dirty… and he loved it. Shaking from his stare he reached for the shampoo and tried to avert his eyes from her as he washed his hair. She was more determined than ever but gave him credit for holding out as long as he was. She continued moving the puff across her body beginning the trail down her firm stomach. Slow deliberate circles traced across her stomach and hips as Roman fought the tingling he was experiencing. She leaned against the shower wall as he washed the soap from his hair, his eyes never leaving her. Knowing she had his full attention she was gonna go in for the kill. Closing her eyes she dropped the shower puff and moved her hands across her opening. Her one hand caressed her swollen breasts as the other explored her insides causing a moan to escape her lips as her back arched against the shower wall. Staring in amazement and with full desire Roman gave up as he pulled her body towards him. “You win!” he exclaimed as he captured his lips with hers. Marlena wasn’t quite done yet as she pulled him away. “Roman… we don’t have time for this” she grinned as she felt his growing erection beneath her.

“We’ll make time!” He exclaimed as he pushed her back against the shower wall. Marlena laughed with satisfaction that she won as he began to trail kisses across her neck and collarbone. His hands roamed her body needing to devour every inch of her. The steam of the shower was nothing compared to the heat they were experiencing. As tired as she was and as late as they were going to be she needed him… all of him… right there and then. Pulling her right leg up around his waist his two fingers trusted inside of her and she gasped as his other massaged her clit. Wrapping her arms tightly around his neck as he made waves of pleasure erupt through her body. With every touch of his hand her body began to tense. Every nerve and muscle in her body contracted as she held onto him for balance and dear life. His lips invaded that space behind her neck that drove her wild. Waves of heat flew through her body as she buried her face in his neck, muffling her scream.

“Roooooaaaaaman!” she moaned as his touch became more rapid sending her completely over the edge… “Don’t Stop!… Oh GOD!… RO–!!!!” She was no longer in control of anything going on in her body as she trembled wildly. Despite the heat of the shower her body was shaking as she held on even tighter to Roman. Removing his hand from inside her he shut the water off and picked her up in his arms. Still unable to speak she rested her head against his chest as he kissed her forehead. He sat her down on the sink counter as he reached for towels. First wrapping one around his waist the other he wrapped around her shoulders. He gently dried the moisture from her body leaving kisses along the way. She closed her eyes and rolled her head back as she longed to be close to him. Unable to keep her distance she leaped off the counter and straddled his hips wrapping her legs around him.

“Oh baby!” he laughed as she grabbed his face with her hands.

“I’m not done with you…” she said in a husky voice. She continued to kiss him as he carried her into their bedroom. Carefully he laid her on the bed as she roughly pulled him on top of her. In one fluid motion she pushed him onto his back and straddled his hips, smiling at his throbbing erection. Reaching in front of her she took the erection into her hands rubbing it up and down. He trembled at her touch. Her strokes began long and smooth but soon turned faster and rougher. He couldn’t take much more of this. Finally she adjusted her body so she was face to face with the aching erection. In one movement she engulfed is penis inside her mouth grabbing hold and beginning to suck. His eyes were popping out of his head as he grabbed onto the sheets to keep control.

“MARLENA!” he cried as she removed his penis, pulsating from her mouth.

She crawled on top of him and kissed his neck roughly before looking him in the eye. With both their eyes burning with desire and her voice deep and needy. She grabbed his face with her right hand as she held herself up with her left.

“I need you inside me.. NOW” she demanded. Giving the lady what she asked for he tossed her onto her back as he thrusted himself inside her causing her to flinch. After all the times they had been together one would think she would be used to his size but every time it overwhelmed her. The pain eased as pleasure replaced it. His strides bringing them both to ecstasy. Her eyes were closed taking in every moment until he leaned in to her ear.

“Look at me…” he whispered. With that their eyes remained locked as their souls connected. No matter how many times they had sex or made love each time they were sure was better than the last. His thrusts became faster as he was no longer able to keep control. Both their bodies filled with pleasure as he was ready to explode. His body shook on top of her as he came inside of her his voice crying out a moan. They stayed like that a moment before he rolled off of her and pulled the blanket across their shivering bodies. Both regaining their breath Roman turned to face her.

“Just when I think it cant get any better…” he pants. Marlena grins and nods as she pulls herself close to him. She only pauses a moment before sitting up abruptly.

 

“Ok now we REALLY have to get ready” She kisses him quick on the cheek before running naked into the bathroom closing the door and locking it behind her this time. Roman lays back down on the bed resting his hands behind his head. He laughs to himself. “I think its safe to say we both won” he says out loud to himself.

Roman stood in front of Marlena’s dresser mirror fumbling with his bow tie. “Why I cant just get the clip on I will never know…” he muttered to himself. His muttering was stopped by the sight he saw behind him in the mirror. Roman spun around to see Marlena leaning against the doorway of the bathroom stepping into her sleek black pumps. She was completely unaware of how stunning she looked. She straightened up and adjusted her form fitting black strapless gown as she walked over to put the copy of her speech in her bag, unaware of Roman’s stare. Her hair was pulled back into a French twist, leaving her bangs and a few pieces out to frame her face. He stared speechless at her perfection. Her makeup was flawless, her eye makeup darker than usual, the simplicity of her gown was complemented by diamond drop earrings and a gold chain that held a diamond heart at the end of it. The heart he had given her on their new 5th wedding anniversary. Marlena looked up and met his stare. Uncomfortable with his silence she looked down before asking “What?”

“Nothing…You look absolutely incredible” he said in awe. Marlena gave a small smile as she walked towards him.

“Well thanks…” she grinned as she began to tie his undone bow tie.

“No I mean it Marlena….stunning” He said seriously as he wrapped his arms around her waist. Marlena looked up from his tie and into his eyes blushing slightly.

“So when are you gonna learn how to tie these properly?”

“Why should I learn when it means I can hold my classy, intelligent, witty, loving, compassionate, gorgeous wife in my arms while she does it for me” he grinned.

“Wow! So that’s your plan hu?” she said straightening it before wrapping her arms around his neck. “Well I know how much you hate wearing it but have I ever told you how incredible you look in a tux?”

“I do look pretty good don’t I” he said winking at her. She giggled as she slapped his chest.

“Its your modesty that I adore about you Brady” She said pulling away. She went to walk away but he pulled her back into his arms and capturing her lips. Breaking apart breathlessly Marlena moaned slightly in his embrace.

“If we don’t walk out of the house right now… we are never going to leave…and were already late… lets go” Marlena said with her eyes still closed thinking it would be easy if she didn’t have to see the lust in his eyes the lust that mirrored her own.

“After you Dr. Evans” he said moving aside from the path to the door.

 

**

The ballroom was bustling with doctors, nurses, board members, trusties and other Salem elite. Drinks were flowing and music was playing as Roman and Marlena entered the room. The picture perfect couple. They were immediately greeted by Alice and Tom Horton.

“Well hello there you two… don’t you both look lovely.” Alice said giving them both a kiss.

“Thank you… you both do too, Alice I love that color on you.” Marlena added.

“Your just in time for the opening speeches… Marlena I was beginning to wonder if you would be joining us” Tom added sarcastically. Marlena looked back at him slightly guilty.

“Sorry…I’m ready when you are”

“Tom let her be…Come on you two, our table is over here… with Mickey and Maggie.” Alice said guiding them all to the table. Alice pulled Marlena closer to her as she whispered. “Darling, how are you feeling?” Marlena looked at her surprised but smiled as she said she was fine. She and Roman agreed not to tell anyone about the baby until she was a little further along. She also knew she could never keep anything from Alice. She had known her since she first came to Salem. She had been with Marlena through everything, including her pregnancy’s all of which Alice had known about before Marlena did. Marlena knew the news would be out by the end of the night.

Roman pulled out Marlena’s chair for her as they greeted Mickey and Maggie, Bo and Hope, Jack and Jennifer and Laura Horton and her date. Marlena scanned the room and for the first time became nervous about addressing the crowd. She had been so caught up with everything else that was going on she had forgotten about the speeches she had written for tonight. She watched as Tom Horton took the podium and the crowed hushed for one of the most respected men in Salem. As he spoke Marlena began nervously tapping her hands on the table as she re-read the speech in front of her. Roman reached over and took her shaking hands in his.

“You’ll be great…” he whispered into her ear giving her hands a reassuring squeeze. She looked at him and gave a half hearted smile as she heard Tom concluding his introduction.

“And with great pleasure and with out further adue I welcome University Hospitals very own Dr. Marlena Evans Brady.” The crowed applauded as Marlena tensed up. With a kiss on a cheek and a reassuring nod from the rest of her table Marlena rose and walked to the podium.

 

**

“…And so on behalf of University Hospital and the Horton Foundation, we hope that with all of your support, tonight will be the most successful event yet, So please enjoy the evening and we thank you all for your continued contributions.” Marlena finished the crowd applauded and the band began to play. She left the stage and was greeted by some collogues on her return to her table. When she pried her self away from the shop talk she searched for Roman who was no longer at the table. Maggie and Laura Horton were talking when she approached.

“You were wonderful!” Maggie said grabbing Marlena’s arm as Laura agreed.

“Oh I don’t know about that…I was surprised at how nervous I got… My stomach is still doing flips!” Marlena confessed.

“Well no need… it over… at least until the presentation after dinner!” Laura commented as Marlena groaned slightly.

“By the way you look absolutely stunning tonight Marlena….Doesn’t she Maggie”

“Oh goodness yes… you were just glowing up there” Marlena blushed nervously and she spotted Roman at the bar with Bo. Marlena didn’t know why or where the feeling had come from but she suddenly became extremely uneasy. “Well thanks… will you two excuse me a moment?” they agreed as she made her way to Roman.

“There she is.. the Woman of the hour!” Roman said as he left a kiss on her cheek.

“Great Job there Sis!” Bo teased.

“Thanks…Roman I think I’m gonna go call and check on the kids” She said with an unsettling look on her face. Roman noticed this and set his drink down.

“Doc whats wrong?”

“Nothing…That I know of… I just think I should call”

“Ok I’ll come with you”

“No.. Nothings wrong I just wanted to check in…Great.. Ok …We’ll talk to you in the morning.. Thanks Caroline.” Marlena hung up the pay phone and turned towards Roman.

“Everythings fine” She said softly, almost surprised.

“Were you expecting something else?” Roman asked confused. Marlena couldn’t shake this feeling she had. It was almost as if she wanted to be right about the kids because at least then she would have an answer to this uneasiness she experienced.

“Uhh.. No.. No I just felt… I thought we should check….” Marlena trailed off as she heard one of the board members calling her name. Looking back at Roman she gave a quick kiss on his cheek before saying “Duty calls…” Marlena joined the board members as Roman went in search of Bo and Jack. What Marlena and Roman didn’t know was that Marlena’s feeling was right, just not in the way she thought. Something was happening in Salem. It was something that would change her life, all their lives forever.

 

A short while later Marlena was standing along the dance floor as several couples were dancing. She was in a group of doctors and was only half paying attention to what was being said. Roman snuck up alongside of her interrupting the group.

“Would you all mind terribly if I borrowed my wife for a few moments?” he asked hearing no objections from the group. Marlena grinned just at his presence. Leading her away she asked “whats going on?”

“Nothings going on I just thought you looked like you could use a break….annnnd I figured since I had to come here in this monkey suit and behave myself I at lease deserve one dance with my wife tonight.” He said as he pulled her onto the dance floor. Marlena couldn’t help but smile as he wrapped his arms around her waist pulling her close to him. In return her arms wrapped securely around his neck. With that and as if on cue the music changed and Unchained Melody began to play. Marlena sighed in his arms and looked into his eyes coyly. “Did you plan this?” she asked as he grinned sheepishly. “I might have” Marlena smiled as they swayed to the music. She loved him so much it hurt sometimes. She never knew that was possible. She didn’t think a love like theirs existed in real life. But standing in front of her, wrapped in her arms was her soul mate, her best friend, her husband and the father of her children. She wasn’t sure how she got that lucky she wasn’t sure if she ever felt this way before either. Roman and Marlena never broke eye contact. They were oblivious to all the other sets of eyes that were on them at that very moment. They were Salem’s elite, and while everyone knew what they had been through they were still believed to have the picture perfect marriage, family and life the envy of so many people in Salem. You could tell how passionately they loved each other just by watching them dance…. Just by watching them period.

Marlena’s eyes filled with tears at the part of the song that made her tear every time.

“Oh, my love my darling… I’ve hungered for your touch…a long lonely time…”

“Why are you crying?” Roman asked as he removed a fallen tear with his thumb.

Marlena shrugged and smiled slightly before replying “Stupid hormones”

“Well… I was thinking… as soon as this shindig is over… You and I should go home to our empty house and finish what we so abruptly had to end earlier.” Roman suggested as he pulled her closer and whispered into her ear. Coyly she whispered back. “Ya know ideas like that are what got me pregnant with our FOURTH… I repeat FORTH child…just so ya know!”

“Well we did always say we’d have a house full of kids!” he grinned

“Yea well if we don’t knock it off we’ll have enough for our own baseball team!” she laughed as he leaned in and kissed her softly on the lips.

The song ended and the band leader announced that dinner was served. Roman and Marlena took their seats with the Horton’s. Marlena sat between Alice and Roman as the table was filled with conversation. The dance had caused Marlena’s uneasiness to disappear but now in its place, as the plates of food were being set out, came a horrifically timed but unavoidable bout of nausea. She could not get sick nor could she leave she still had the presentations to do with Tom after dinner. “Oh God!” she thought to herself as the smells from everyone’s food invaded her body. She took slow deep breaths and tried not to look down at her food praying that this feeling would pass quickly. She hadn’t felt sick all day she didn’t know why at this late hour it had to happen. Unable to control herself anymore she pushed her chair back and tried to excuse herself from the table.

“Marlena, Darling are you alright?” Alice asked concerned noticing Marlena’s sudden pallor.

“Yes-I….I will….excuse me” She stammered fighting a loosing battle as she walked quickly to the ladies room with Roman and Alice behind her. Roman got to the door and looked helplessly at Alice.

“Roman, Ill check on her you go sit down.” Knowing there was nothing he could do he agreed and left.

 

Alice entered the thankfully empty ladies room as she heard Marlena getting sick inside one of the stalls. Moments later Marlena came out with tears streaming down her face.

“Oh my darling” Alice said helplessly as she handed Marlena a paper towel.

“Alice.. I’m fine you didn’t have to come in here…” Marlena said leaning against the sink counter trying to steady herself.

“You are anything but fine… come sit down here.” Marlena legs gave out a little as she let Alice help her to the lounge area and onto one of the couches. Marlena clutched her stomach and leaned forward, not sure if the excitement was done, as Alice began to rub circles along her back.

“So…am I right in saying this is a delayed bout of ‘morning sickness’” Alice smiled. Marlena exhaled slowly as she sat back against the couch. She looked up guilty at Alice before nodding. Alice instantly smiled and wrapped her arms around Marlena.

“Oh I knew it!… known it for weeks now!” she cried. Marlena looked at her amazed.

“Well Alice it would have been nice if you let me in on it too!”

“Oh sweetheart are you happy about it?” she asked tucking a stray hair behind Marlena’s ear.

“At the moment I’m less than thrilled but had you asked me a while ago I would have said yes, were very happy….insane… but happy” Just then Maggie entered the lounge area.

“Marlena you have the whole table worried… they sent me to check on you two”

“I’m sorry… I’m fine now…Lets go back-“ Marlena finished as another wave hit her. She bent forward fighting the urge to get sick. Maggie knelt down on the other side of her as Marlena’s eyes clutched closed breathing through the waves of nausea that took over her body. Suddenly it hit Maggie as she flashed back on the past few times she saw Marlena. The dizzy spell in her office…getting sick outside the hospital.

“Oh My Gosh your pregnant!” Maggie blurted out. Marlena’s eyes shot opened looking to see who else heard her outburst. Seeing no one she replied “Cant a person get sick with out being pregnant!?”

“Being sick doesn’t come and go like that.. you are aren’t you?” Maggie grinned.

Marlena rolled her eyes. “I must be wearing a sign tonight!”

“Oh Sweetie Congrats! When did you find out? When are you due? How did Roman take the news?” Maggie rattled as Alice could see Marlena was still feeling sick and overwhelmed.

“Maggie- Dear give Marlena some room.” Marlena buried her face in her hands.

“Today for sure….December and he’s thrilled… but we haven’t told anyone yet so please don’t say anything to anyone”

“Sure thing” Maggie said excitedly. Marlena knew as well intentioned a friend Maggie was she was not the best secret keeper.

“UGH! I don’t get it… I was fine all day… and now of all times when I have to present-“ Marlena cried rubbing her hand across her stomach trying to sooth it.

“Babies and Nature don’t usually care what you have going on…but I think you should go home.”

“Alice I cant!”

“Nonsense… Tom can do your presentation for you…You need to go home and get in bed… Ill tell Roman to bring the car around.” Alice said standing up.

“No- I’ve worked on this for months! Everyone was counting on me to do-“ Marlena began to protest but instead leaped up and ran for the stalls.

 

**

Marlena ran into the house and tossed her purse and shoes onto the ground before heading for the bathroom. Roman entered behind her. He felt so bad for her. She knew how upset she was about not being able to do the presentation she had worked so hard on but that was nothing compared to how she was feeling about the three times he had to pull over on the way home because she thought she was going to be sick. Entering the bathroom he saw Marlena was now sobbing in her gown against the wall.

“Baby… what can I do?” he knelt down helplessly.

“I- I just d-don’t know what I have left to throw up!!” she cried as he pulled her into his arms.

“Sweetie lets get you changed and into bed” he prompted as he tried to help her up. She clutched her stomach as she continued to cry.

“R-Ro-Roman… I- I- Cant –Cant do this every-every day” she sobbed into his chest. He didn’t know what to say or do. He knew she was never this sick with the twins but he remembered there were quite a few times she was this sick with Belle. He hated seeing her in pain.

“Baby it will be ok…come on” In one movement he stood up with her in his arms as he made the way upstairs.

**

A little while later she was in her pajamas and in bed as he sat next to her with a cool towel on her forehead. She was curled up on her side her eyes closed but he could tell she was not asleep.

“Sweetie do you wanna try come tea and crackers to settle your stomach?” Seeing her body tense at the mention he knew the answer and was sorry he asked. After a moment she opened her eyes and removed the towel from her head.

“Can you just hold me please?” She asked as exhaustion was taking over her. Roman smiled as he went around to his side of the bed and moved close to her wrapping his arms securely around her. Her body eased at his touch as her breath soon became steady. It was only a while later before he too was asleep. Both blissfully unaware of how drastically their lives would soon be changing.Marlena shifted in bed, reaching out for Roman, her hand coming to rest on his chest. Both were still asleep the only sound in the room their steady breathing. After a few moments, Marlena’s eyes fluttered opened as she looked up to see him still sleeping peacefully next to her. A sleepy smile came across her lips as she studied his features. He was just gorgeous. Sometimes she felt guilty for thinking that because his looks are not the looks of the man she first met and fell in love with. But she couldn’t help it. His eyes were the bluest eyes she had ever seen. When she looked in them she found something there she could not explain, but something she never saw before. His dimples when he smiled could make her melt even in their most heated argument. As if he could hear her thinking about him Roman opened his eyes and turned to look at Marlena who was smiling back at him.

 

“Well good morning beautiful” he said with his voice still filled with sleep. Marlena ran her hand across his chest as she leaned herself up to kiss him softly on the lips. “Morning” she replied when finished. Roman wrapped his left arm around her as she snuggled closer to him resting her head on his chest.

 

“Do you hear that?” he asked. Marlena looked up at him confused.

“ Hear what?”

“Nothing!… there’s no alarm clock blaring…no patients or offices to get to, no one climbing into bed with us, asking what’s for breakfast, no one yelling or running up and down the hallway…just you and me.” He grinned pulling her closer to him. Marlena leaned her head up and laughed when she saw the clock say 10:45am.

 

“Roman do you know, I cant even think of the last time I have slept past 8am.”

 

“Mmmhumm.., we better enjoy it because its not like we can get use to it” he laughed placing his free hand on her still flat stomach. Marlena sighed in content as she placed her head back on his chest. He ran his hand up and down her arm as he kissed the top of her head.

 

“How are you feeling this morning?” he asked.

 

“ok so far…nothing compares to last night though” she sighed.

 

“I cant believe I had to miss the presentations.” She said remembering the night before.

 

“Sweetie everyone understood, you were sick, there was nothing you could do”

 

“Well I’m sure by now everyone knows the real reason. Maggie and Alice know…and even though I told them not to say anything I’m sure thanks to Maggie the entire hospital and most of Salem knows I’m pregnant!” Marlena explained.

 

“Well maybe she didn’t say anything” he said assuring her as he received a raised eyebrow from Marlena.

 

“Well so what if they do know?…Its not like were trying to hide it.”

 

“I’m aware of that but we just found out, we haven’t even told the kids or your parents yet.”

 

“Well then I guess we had better get on that.” he grinned as Marlena rolled her eyes. “Seven months seems like an eternity for little kids, I wonder how they are going to react.” she asked.

 

“Yea, well I’m sure Belle wont get it at all but I have a feeling Sami and Eric will be thrilled” he responded as she looked up at him giving him a “get serious” look.

 

“I’m not sure ‘thrilled’ is the right word. Its a lot…a big change… for all of us.” She trailed off as he mind began to race. She pulled away from Roman and sat up in bed much to his confusion.

 

“Whats wrong?” he asked concerned, sitting up next to her.

 

“Well Roman… I just… I mean theres so much to think about. I mean where are we even going to put the new baby!… I guess for awhile the baby could stay in Belle’s room, but were going to have to turn the den into a bedroom for one of the twins downstairs next to Carrie’s, or just have her share with Sami when she stays with us… but that’s not fair… shes always had her own room here… and then there’s juggling the new baby to all of the twins activities…and-Work!… I don’t know how I can still work… but then again I don’t think we can afford me not working… and I mean I don’t know why I think theres such a difference between having 3 kids to care for to having 4… well actually with Carrie its 5! But I just think we’re-“ She rambled on absentmindedly before Roman stopped her.“Sweetie! Stop!” he said as he wrapped his left arm around her shoulder causing her to look at him.

 

“Roman” She said softly, helplessly.

 

“Marlena, I promise you everything will be ok. We will work everything out. Room assignments, activities, work, carpools, whatever! We are in this together and we will be fine. So don’t do all your worrying in one morning, we have months and years worth of worrying to do. Trust me… its gonna be fine… its gonna be wonderful” He smiled a reassuring smile and despite her fears, in that moment, she almost believed him. Leaning in slowly he cupped her face in his palms as he captured her lips with his. After slowly breaking apart Marlena sighed with contentment as she stared back into his eyes.

 

“Feel any better?” he teased. She smiled as she nodded.

 

“Well good… because I want you worry free for what I have planned for us.” He grinned.

 

“What did you plan?” she asked searching his face for clues.

 

“Well with the kids at my parents this weekend, I was thinking we should put our alone time to good use.”

 

“Go on…” she said giving him her version of his famous raised eyebrow.

 

“If your not feeling up to it just say the word and we can do whatever you want… but I made reservations at the Green Mountain Lodge for tonight. I thought we could drive up, stop for a picnic somewhere and then head to the Lodge…but like I said if you’d rather stay close to home…but what do you think?”Marlena beamed at her husbands romantic plans as she brought her hand to his cheek.

 

“I think that’s so incredibly sweet of you… and it sounds wonderful. I also think you are the most generous, compassionate, loving, amazingly wonderful man in the world and I don’t think I tell you enough how grateful I am to have you in my life.” She spoke from her heart as her eyes filled with tears.

 

“Aww shucks Doc” he smiled.“I mean it…I love you with my whole heart…always will..” She said as a single tear fell.

 

“I love you too…now what do you say we get this day started” he said wiping the tear from her cheek.She smiled and nodded as he kissed her cheek before they rose to get ready.

Marlena’s infectious laughter echoed through the walls of the Green Mountain Lodge as she ran down the hallway with Roman close behind. Before she could get to their door he caught up and reached out for her hips as he pulled her back away from the door.

 

“HEY! That’s Cheating!!” She cried through her laughter as she struggled to get back in front of their door. Roman fumbled with the key as Marlena slipped under his arm coming between him and his task, so that her back was to the door and her eyes locked with his. She decided to further distract him by wrapping her arms around his neck and devouring his lips. Dropping the key and all sense of what he had been doing at the door Roman responded to her kiss as he wrapped his arms around her waist resting on the small of her back. They were lost their in their kiss for what seemed like an eternity. Suddenly the loud sound of someone clearing their throat startled Marlena and Roman. They separated to see an older man in his sixties staring at them. When he knew he had their attention he began to speak.

 

“Ya know… It appears you have a room here… so I suggest you do that kind of thing in it.. and not in the hallway, this is a family place ya know.” He said as he shook his head and walked away. Marlena and Roman immediately put their heads down trying not to laugh. Roman picked up the room key and leaned into Marlena.

 

“He’s just jealous he wasn’t the one making out in the hallway with you”

 

“I see…” Marlena giggled as Roman opened the door to their room. Roman kicked the door closed behind them as Marlena watched him walk closer to the bed to take his shoes off. She waited until he was right in front of the bed before she made her next move. In one big leap she pushed him onto the bed landing on his back as she quickly straddled his hips and pinned his hands over his head.

 

“What the hell??!!” He asked startled.

 

“Didn’t anyone ever teach you not to let your guard down in a fight?” she grinned.

 

“I didn’t realize we were fighting?” he replied.

 

“We started fighting when you started cheating… and you’ve been doing that all afternoon!”

 

“I don’t know what your talking about!?” Roman grinned.

 

“You cheated at tennis…The WHOLE TIME…. And you cheated before when we were racing to the room.” she explained as he realized she was right.

 

“Dr. Evans … Perhaps I have a problem”

 

“Clearly…” She added as she leaned closer to his face, hovering over his lips. Just as it looked like she was going to kiss him she sat up and pulled away. This gave Roman the opportunity to pull her down and onto her back. Now he was the one who had her pinned down.

 

“You know you should take it easy with me there Brady… I am with child ya know… your child to be exact” Marlena grinned.

 

“Oooohh suddenly when things aren’t going your way you pull the ‘with child card’… being pregnant didn’t seem to matter a few minutes ago when you did your ninja move and knocked me onto the bed…” Roman laughed.

 

“I’m entitled to pull that card out whenever I want to!” she explained. Roman removed himself from her and instead laid down next to her on the bed.

 

“You are absolutely right sweetie…” he added as he leaned over and gave her a sweet kiss on the lips. Marlena sat up and leaned her weight on her elbow.

 

“I think I’m gonna shower before dinner… I feel gross from tennis.” She said as she went to stand. Roman sat up and stopped her.

 

“I was thinking we could just order dinner in the room”

 

“Ok that’s fine… I still want to shower though..” she said kissing

the top of his head as she got up and walked to the doorway of the bathroom.

 

“Want some company?” he asked coyly from his spot on the bed.

Marlena got to the doorway and turned to him with a straight

face.

 

“Nah…” she said. Roman was taken back by her response and simply nodded.

Marlena giggled at his disappointment.

 

“Get over here sailor!” she called from the doorway. Roman grinned from ear to ear as he leaped up from the bed and followed her into the bathroom closing the door behind them.

“Oh my… just when I think I have seen all your tricks you manage to surprise me.” Marlena exclaimed as she wrapped the sheet around her body and snuggled closer to Roman.

 

“Why thank you pretty lady but you had some surprises for me as well.” Roman added kissing the top of her head. She sighed contently in his arms as her hand traced lazy circles around his broad chest. Both were lost in their own thoughts before Marlena spoke.

 

“Eric’s science project…” she said

 

“Hu?” Roman asked confused.

 

“Eric’s science project is due on Monday… and he has a doctor’s appointment after school.” She continued as she sat up leaning on her elbow. Roman stared back at her with wonder.

 

“Baby where did that come from? I give you one of the finest sexual experiences in your life-“ He began as Marlena laughed.

“yes in your life… and one of the first things you think about are science projects and doctor appointments?” Roman teased as Marlena playfully smacked his chest.

 

“Believe me it wasn’t the first thing sweetie… but I’m a mom I cant help it… I was thinking about picking up the kids tomorrow then I thought about how we still needed to finish Eric’s project, then I thought about his arm and thus the doctors appointment…” she trailed off as she sighed.

 

“Ahh I see… well now that you mention the kids… isn’t Sami’s Girl Scout father- daughter dance this Friday?” he added.

 

“I thought it was next Friday… but maybe your right. I might have it mixed up with Belle’s Nursery School Play…. I have the paper at home…”

 

“Annnnnd were back to reality.” Roman teased.

 

“I’m sorry but like I said I cant help it…Is it crazy that I miss them?” Marlena asked quietly.

 

“No its not crazy at all, I miss them too…maybe it makes us good parents or something.” he grinned.

 

“Yea…” she said laying back down in his arms.”were lucky… really lucky they are great kids ya know?” she added as he pulled her tighter to him.

 

“Thats a fact…” he agreed. Marlena laid in his arms as her exaustion soon took over. Moments later Roman began to speak to her when he realized she was sound asleep in his arms. He smiled as he felt her breathing slowing down as her head rested against his chest. Moments later he too fell asleep.

 

*****

 

“Mommmy Daddddddy!!!” The Three Brady children came bounding across their grandparents living room and into Marlena and Romans awaiting embraces.

 

“OooHhh!! My babies!” Marlena said as she hugged and kissed all three of them. Belle reached for Marlena to pick her up and Marlena happily complied. “Oh!! I just missed you so much!” she beamed.

 

“Were you kids good for Grandma and Grandpa?” Roman asked.

 

“They were wonderful” Caroline replied for them as she entered the living room.

 

“Dad- Dad it was so cool Grandpa took us fishing with Uncle Bo on his boat and we caught this huge fish and the hook got caught on it and it was so gross and the guts were everywhere but it was still alive and-“

 

“Ok son we have the picture” Roman interupted seeing the quezzyness of his wife and mother. “So did you bring it home and cook it?” he asked.

 

“No Sami was a crybaby and said it was mean and horrible and made Grandpa put it back.” Eric explained nudging his sister.

 

“I’m not a crybaby…It was too mean and horrible cus what did that fish ever do to you! You wouldnt like it if someone got your guys all hooked up…” Sami defended. Marlena laughed as she sat down on the sofa setting Belle next to her as Sami took her seat on the other side of her.

 

“Well despite the fish insident Im glad you had a good time” Roman laughed as he and Eric sat on the couch opposite Belle Marlena and Sami.

 

“Did Belle go fishing too?” Marlena asked.

 

“Nahh she went to the park with Grandma, Aunt Hope and Shawn instead cus they were too little for the boat.” Eric spoke for her.

 

“I not tooo wittle!!” Belle protested stubornly as she climbed onto Marlena’s lap and rested her head against her chest.

 

“But how about you two, how was your weekend?” Caroline asked.

 

“It was wonderful, I cant thank you enough for watching them.” Marlena said.

 

“Oh please it was our pleasure, being with grandchildren is one of the greatest joys in life!” Caroline beamed.

 

“We’ll were glad you think so” Roman teased.

 

“So will you be staying for dinner? I’d be happy to make enough for all of us.”

 

“Oh Ma No need to go to all that trouble, besides We have alot to do when we get home, someone has a Science project to finish and Sunday is a bath night.” Roman explained as his chilren and even Marlena groaned slightly.

 

“Well that may all be so but you still need to eat so why not do it here… Bo, Hope and Shawn D will be coming over too.” Caroline replied. Marlena grinned at Roman for his efforts and he too saw that his mother was not going to take no for an answer.

 

“Well then dinner sounds great Ma, thanks”

 

“Yes thank you Caroline” Marlena added.

 

“No trouble…Im gonna go check on Shawn at the Pub, Ill be back” Caroline said leaving the Brady family alone.

 

Roman locked eyes with Marlena as they both thought they should put this alone time to use.

 

“So guys…your mom and I have something to talk to you about.” Roman began.

 

“Are we in trouble?” Sami asked.

 

“No your certainly not in trouble.” Roman assured.

 

“Then what is it?” Eric asked. Marlena swallowed hard uneasy about her childrens reactions. Roman looked at her telling her to continue.

 

“Umm… Well we wanted to tell you… that We- I…. Im gonna have a baby…your gonna have another brother or sister” she managed to say. Belle sat up from her mothers lap and looked at her confused as Eric and Sami remained silent for a moment.

 

“Another one?” Sami spoke finally causing Roman to laugh.

 

“Yea kido another one. What do you guys think.” Roman asked

 

“I think theres enough babies in our house with Sami around” Eric teased throwing a pillow at her.

 

“HEY You take that back!” Sami cried

 

“Hey hey both of you! Stop it…now this is a big deal.” Roman yelled.

 

“Well i just hope its a boy… theres too many girls around especially when Carrie stays with us.” Eric said.

 

“WHen will the baby come?” Sami asked as she was still not sure what she thought of the situation.

 

“Around Christmas time” Marlena explained. The room was quiet a moment.

 

“Cool…” Sami spoke.

 

“Yea… can we go help grandpa now?” Eric asked. Roman and Marlena sat confused.

 

“Dont you guys have any questions or anything you wanna talk about?” Marlena asked.

 

“Nope…” the twins chimed in before heading to the door.

 

“Me too meeeee too” Belle exclaimed completly oblivious to the situation but running after her siblings.

 

Roman rose and sat next to Marlena. She turned and looked at him.

 

“Well that went well…” he laughed as she sighed and leaned her head on his shoulder.

One Month Later….

 

“

Ok guys you all ready to go?.. Got your baseball gloves to catch those foul balls?” Roman asked as he entered the living room where his children were playing.

 

“Yup were ready” Eric spoke.

 

“Ok good… wheres your mom?”

 

“She went upstairs to get ready” Sami explained.

 

“Ahh I see… ok I’m gonna go check on her cus we gotta hit the road if we wanna make the first pitch” Roman explained as he headed towards the stairs.

 

Entering their bedroom he stopped in confusion at the sight before him. There on the bed was Marlena laying on her back, chin to her chest, her feet planted firmly on the matress as she pushed her behind up in the air as she stuggled with the button of her jeans.

“Doc?” he asked with a hint of amusement in his voice. Startled by his voice she collapsed back onto the bed.

 

“Good your here, come over here and make yourself useful” she demanded as she assumed her position.

 

“Sweetie what are you trying to do?” he asked as he sat at the edge of the bed.

 

“What does it look like I’m trying to do!?? Just come pull the zipper up and ill hold the sides.” she said breathlessly as she fought with her jeans.

 

“Umm… Doc maybe you should just try another pair… if these are this hard to get on you wont be comfortable sitting at the game for all that time in these.”

 

“Well Roman I wont really be comfortable for the next 6 months now will I so just help me.” He could see he needed to be careful so he just shut up and tried to help her. Marlena held her breath as she pulled in the early signs of her swelling stomach as John tried to zip up her pants. Ironicaly he was usualy on the bed helping her take off her pants. Seeing that the zipper simply was not going to close she pushed his hands off of her and collapsed back against the bed. He watched her nervously like a ticking time bomb not sure how she was going to act but he knew it wasnt gonna end well.

 

“Sweetie why are you doing this to yourself? Why dont you just put on a pair of your leggings or something?” he spoke quietly.

 

“4 days Roman” she spoke finally. He didnt know WHERE to go with that statement.

 

“Hu?” he kept it simple.

 

“I wouldnt be making a big deal about the jeans if they didnt just fit me 4 days ago..I wouldnt say they fit me loosely but never the less they fit me 4 days ago Roman” she explained.

 

“Well-” he began but she quicky intrupted him.

 

“I understand that I’m pregnant… I understand that jeans not closing come with the teritory…but what i dont get is that concidering for the past 4 months I have barely been able to eat a meal, look at a meal, smell a meal and or think about a meal with out running for the nearest bathroom, I cant understand why these jeans, the same jeans that fit me 4 days ago just wont freekin button…at least not so soon!” She spouted as she laid back on the bed. He sat there staring, confident that whatever he said was bound to be the wrong thing. To anyone else that knew her she didnt look at all pregnant, but there with her bare stomach exposed Roman who had memorized every part of her body could see the slight beginnings of the baby growing inside her, their baby and despite how upset he knew she was right now, he couldnt help but smile.

He leaned in and put his hand on her stomach and kissed it softly before she could react.

 

“I’m Sorry” he said as he sat up and looked at her.

 

“What for?” she asked.

 

“I’m sorry your upset, I’m sorry you’ve been so sick, and I’m sorry your jeans dont fit” he said covering all the basis. Marlena grinned and sighed as she glanced down at her stomach. She sat up as she covered her stomach with her shirt.

 

“Thanks…and I’m sorry too… I’m sorry that your married to a hormonal crazy woman.”

 

“Aww I wouldnt have it any other way” he said leaning in to capture her lips before she could hit him. With that all three kids bounded into the room decked out in their Salem Stingray Baseball team atire.

 

“Can we gooooo now?” Eric asked flopping onto the bed.

 

“Yea I thought we were gonna be late” Sami asked climbing onto

the bed. Belle was making her fifth attempt to pull herself onto her parents bed when Roman leaned over to help her up.

 

“Yes were going in 5 minutes… You guys take daddy down stairs with you and I promise ill be right down.”

 

“Thats what you said last time…and then you guys were kissing instead!” Eric pointed out causeing Roman and Marlena to blush slightly. Roman rose from the bed with Belle in his arms.

 

“Alright… you heard your mom.. up and out my friends… we have a game to get to…” He lead the twins to the doorway and turned and looked at Marlena before he left. She was digging through her drawers for another pair of pants when she felt his stare. She looked up and recieved a wink and his million dollar smile before he left with Belle, closing the door behind them.

 

***

“So when theres 3 outs that means the inning is over and the teams change sides.” Roman explained. Sami and Belle sat in between Marlena and Roman as Eric sat on the other side of Roman, all watching the game.

 

“But then what is that other thingy called?” Sami asked desparate to understand the game her father and brother loved.

 

“Those are strikes.” he explained to Sami’s confused expression.

 

“Mommy juice?” Belle asked tugging on her mothers sleeve.

 

“How do you ask for it?” Marlena prompted.

 

“Mommy may I have juice peeaas?” Belle asked as Marlena tried to hide her amusment at her pronounciation.

 

“Yes you may, Sami? Eric? do you guys want anything?” She leaned over and asked.

 

“I want a hot dog” Eric said breaking his contact with the game for the first time, with glove firmly planted in his hand looking like he was waiting for his call from the bullpen.

 

“Can I have a pretzel? and Water.. its hot up here.” Sami asked

 

“It sure is kido, nuthin like July in the ball park, listen why dont I make a run to the stand for all of us…Doc what can I get you?”

 

“Just water is fine…”

 

“Ok, I’ll be back in a jiffy” He rose and moved down to the edge

of the isle where Marlena was sitting, she rose from her seat to let him by. “and did I mention how cute you look in your baseball hat and sunglasses?? he wispered into her ear.

 

“no but thanks” she giggled. He wrapped his arms around her waist and kissed her quickly but sweetly on the lips before making his way down the stands.

 

***

“And its ONE TWO THREE STRIKES YOUR OUT AT THE OLD BALL GAME!!!!!!!” The Brady family sang out along with the crowd at the 7th inning stretch. Well all except for Belle. Marlena glanced down to see Belle try to make her way out of the isle and onto the stairs.

 

“Belle No… come back here and sit down.”

 

“Daddy how many more innings do we have to stay here for?” Sami asked

 

“Nooooo I dont want TO!” Belle yelled as she slipped from her mothers grasp and went down the steps. Marlena bent over and scooped her in her arms as she began to scream and yell. Marlena looked helplessly at Roman.

 

“Well Im just amazed we got a 3 year old to sit for as long as she has.” She said as Belle squirmed in her arms. Marlena bent down and set her in the seat next to her. When Marlena stood upright a flash of heat came over her and her legs gave out slightly. Roman saw her and reached over a unhappy Belle to steady Marlena “Doc?” he asked his face full of concern. Marlena’s eyes stayed closed behind her sunglasses hoping to stop the dizzyness she felt a moment ago.

 

“I’m fine.. I’m fine” She said softly. Roman moved over in the isle to help her sit back down. He took Belles seat next to Marlena as Belle moved over to Eric.

 

“Doc what is it?”

“Shh Roman, its ok, I think the heat just finally got to me for a second… I just got a little dizzy.” She said trying to convince him and herself.

 

“Ok i think its safe to say we have all had enough baseball for today.” Roman anounced.

 

“No Roman we dont have to leave because of me really I’m fine its-“

 

“Daaaaaad can we go soon?” Sami asked.

 

“Yea guys… I think were gonna head home now.”

 

“But Dad how are we gonna know who wins?” Eric asked.

 

“Buddy we can listen to it on the radio in the car, where its nice and cool.. lets go…” Roman reached over and picked up a cranky Belle before she went wandering in the opposite direction.

 

” I guess a July trip to the ballpark with the family wasnt the best idea” he noted

 

“Sweetie it was great while it lasted,”

.

“I guess, Doc are you ok to walk?”

 

“Roman I’m not an invalid, Im really fine, like i said its just the heat and a combination of things… lets go.” She followd Eric and Sami behind Roman as the Brady family made their way out of the stadium.

“Daddy can we still sleep in the tent tonight like you said?” Eric asked from the back seat of the mini van. Marlena was less than thrilled when Roman brought home the mini van one afternoon. She never saw herself as a station wagon or Mini van driving kinda gal, but once Belle was born they had no other choice especially when Carrie was around.

 

“Yea Daddy can we?” Sami chimed in.

 

“I dunno guys…We’ll talk about it later” Roman said as he drove. He glanced back in the rear view mirror and smiled at Belle who was sound asleep in her car seat, her cheeks flushed from her day in the sun. He looked over at Marlena who he could see was fighting to stay awake, she too had the same flush to her cheeks. He turned the corner down their familar street and into their driveway. Before he was even in park Sami and Eric leaped out the door and into the house. He had no idea how they had so much energy. Silently Marlena got out of the car and walked inside after the kids as Roman reached in to carry a sleeping Belle.

 

Marlena was listening to the answering machine when Roman came in. Belle had woken up by now and when he set her down she went upstairs in search of Eric and Sami.

“Hope called” Marlena said styfling a yawn.

“And?”

“She wants to talk about your parents Aniversary Party, its only a few weeks away… and Anna called to say Carrie could spend the rest of the summer with us.” Marlena explained as she plopped down onto the couch, exhaustion evident on her face.

 

“Well thats great.. Ill call her back…. want me to call Hope back too?” He asked sitting down next to her.

 

“No its ok… Ill call her l-la-later” she said as she yawned.

 

“Sweetie why dont you go lay down for awhile?”

 

“No I’m fine” she said as she laid her head on his shoulder her eyes closing instantly. He ran his free hand through her hair and kissed the top of her head.

 

“Baby really, go up and rest, the kids wanna sleep in the tent tonight so Ill go set it up with them so it will be quiet for a while.”

Marlena couldnt resist him anymore she wasnt sure she could rememeber a time she felt more exhausted. She lifted her head from his shoulder and slowly brought herself to stand.

“Thanks” she said as he rose to meet her. She leaned in and kissed him softly on the lips before heading upstairs.

 

**

 

It had been about 2 hours since Marlena went up to nap and she desended the stairs in her suprisingly quiet house. Looking around in confusion as to where her family was. Walking over to the dining room window she saw them all outside. She couldnt help but smile when she watched Roman interact with the kids. He loved them more than anything and it showed. His family was everything to him and the kids adored him just as much. She walked out into the yard to see that the picnic table was all set.

 

“Mommy!” Belle cried running to her.

“Hi there… Whats all this?”

“We helped Daddy make dinner..” Eric explained taking his seat at the table.

“You did?”

“Me too Meeee too!” Belle anounced.

“You too?” Marlena beamed as she bent down to pick up her daughter.

“I hope chicken is ok?” Roman asked as he set the plate from the grill onto the table.

“Yea… It looks delicious.” Marlena said sitting Belle down next to her.

“We wanted to help make you dinner because daddy said you were tired.” Sami explained.

“Well thank you all for doing this…”

“You feelin any better Doc?” Roman asked taking his seat.

“Much… thank you” she smiled

“Mommy…. Carrie is coming to stay for the rest of the summer… daddy talked to her… and we did too” Sami explained excitedly.

“I know… I cant wait to see her…” she said as she helped the kids put the food on their plates.

” Me too I miss her when shes not here…” Eric confessed. Roman looked up and smiled at Marlena. The sun was setting on the beautiful day when there was a russleing in the bushes. Marlena and Roman both turned to look but saw nothing. They assumed it was an animal or something. The Brady family sat happily eating dinner enjoying eachothers company blisfully unaware at what was going on around them.

 

**

3 weeks later…..

 

It was Shawn and Caroline’s Aniversary Party and the whole Brady Family and many of the Hortons were gathered at the Brady Pub to celebrate.

“Dad, Is it ok if Sami Eric and I take Belle and Shawn out to the Back yard with us?” Carrie asked as she walked over to Roman.

“Umm sure kido, just make sure you really keep an eye on the little ones”

“K thanks.” she went off. Roman smiled, he was glad to have her back with them. He looked up and scanned the room for Marlena. His smile grew wider when he spotted her. She was talking with Maggie and Hope actually she was laughing. God how he loved her laugh. It was the most contagious thing he had ever heard He stared at her from across the room. She stood there in her tank top and shorts so casual yet she managed to make that look stunning, her pregnant belly now more promient to everyone, her golden summer skin only accenting the glow that surrounded her.

 

“Roman- Earth to Roman” Bo said shaking him from his stare.

“Sorry… whats up”

“Can you come help me start up the grill?”

” Sure thing little Bro….Ill be there in a minute…” Roman walked over to behind where Marlena was standing and slipped his arms through hers coming to rest on her slightly swollen stomach. She jump slightly but grinned at the familiar touch placing her hands onto of his.

 

“Hey there ladies…” he smiled.

“Hello Roman…” They replied

“I just came to say hello before us Brady men go man the grill” he said as he kissed Marlena’s cheek. Marlena chuckled as she turned in his arms.

“That so ruggid of you… Sweetie where are the kids?” She asked as she wrapped her arms around his neck.

“Out in the yard with Carrie…but Bo’s out there too” he replied.

“oh ok… OOooH!” she exclaimed placing a hand to her stomach.

“What?” he asked concerned. Tears of joy filled Marlena’s eyes as she quickly placed Romans hand on her stomach.

“The baby kicked…It never kicked that hard before” she laughed. Roman sought desparetly to feel what she had felt.

“oh Marlena isnt that just the best feeling?” Hope beamed at her Brother and Sister in law.

“I missed it…” Roman said sadly..

“Dont worry Its just the first of many—- Oh feel that!?”

“Yea!” he said excitedly. Their eyes locked and their wordless connection spoke volumes. He could move her to tears with out ever saying a word. Maggie and Hope looked on, it was evident Roman and Marlena were in their own world…their love was so deep, if the women hadnt had similar loves of their own it might make them jelous. Roman leaned in and kissed her sweetly on the lips.

 

“ROMAN a hand please??” Bo yelled from the kitchen.

“Ok… duty calls… see you later pretty lady.” he replied before kissing her one last time. Marlena was still beaming when she turned her attention back to Maggie and Hope.

**

The party was winding down as Marlena was helping with the clean up. Roman walked up to her and took the platter from her.

“some party hu?” he said helping her clear one of the tables.

“I think your parents really ejoyed it” Marlena commented as she rubbed the soreness in her back.

“yea… but how about you? how are you holding up?” he asked. She knew there was no use trying to lie to him.

“Im ok.. just kinda tired…but what else is new hu?”

“Well I gotta help Bo with the clean up outside real quick, but why dont you go sit down in ma and pops house with the kids, there all watchin a movie.”

“No dont be silly… I said i would help Hope.”

“Ok… Well Ill meet you back here in a few” He said before kissing her cheek. Marlena walked over to Hope who was cleaning up.

 

“So i think that went well” Hope commented.

“Yea definitly, they were certainly suprized…” Marlena added. Suddenly Marlena had the feeling she was being watched. She looked up but saw that Hope was the only other person around. She heard Hope begin talking but didnt hear a word she was saying. Her eyes became transfixed in the figure she saw in the door window. “No” she thought. “Theres no way” Hope saw that Marlena wasnt responding and looked up to see her staring motionless at the door. As Hopes gaze followed Marlena’s the figure opened the door of the pub.

“Oh My God!” Hope screamed. Marlena closed her eyes tight… praying this was a dream. This wasnt happening.

The figure stepped into the pub and closed the door.

“Doc, Its Me” was the last thing Marlena heard before she collapsed to the floor.

Hope was still in shock as she rushed over to Marlena’s limp body. The figure came towards the two women.

“GET BACK!” Hope cried.

“Hope its me… Roman, let me help…,”

“No… No you are not Roman..Roman is outside with Bo.. you .. your…just.. no. No….” Was all Hope said as she picked up Marlena’s head and placed it in her lap, brushing Marlena’s hair from her face she gently stoked her face as she repeated her name trying to get her to wake up. The man claming to be Roman knelt down and tried to touch Marlena. Guilt and sadness washed over Roman as he noticed the slight swell of Marlenas stomach.

“I SAID BACK UP… Dont you touch her…” as Hope yelled Bo and Roman came walking through the door from the kitchen.

“What the hell is goin on?” Bo demanded as he stopped dead in his tracks.

RoJohn didnt even notice the man in front of him, his eyes instead went directly to Marlena’s body on the floor.

“Oh God!, Doc!!…. Bo, Call 911!!” he said as he rushed to her. He knelt down taking Marlena from Hope. “Sweetie wake up” he begged.

“Hope-What happened?” RoJohn asked finally looking up noticing the silence in the room. The two Roman’s eyes met and in that instant RoJohn felt as if he was hit by a truck. There standing in front of him was the man in the photos. The man from the past, the man he thought he was the image of the original Roman Brady.

 

“Who the hell are you and what did you do to her” Rojohn asked

“I could ask you the same thing … I’m Roman Brady and thats my wife in your arms” Roman explained.

“What the hell is-” Bo started.

Before anything else could be said, Marlena moaned in RoJohn’s arms. Her eyes fluttered open and her hand went right to her head to the spot where it pouned from hitting the floor, her eyes shut in pain.

 

“Marlena?..” Rojohn asked cautiously as he watched her look up at him from his arms. For a moment she was completly at a loss as to what had happened and why on earth they were on the floor of the pub, untill she looked to her right,and she saw him…and it hit her… again. The breath left her body as quickly as it had been taken in. She looked back at RoJohn and quickly sat up pulling away from his touch. Her sudden movement caused her to become dizzy again.

 

“Marlena take it easy…” Hope said kneeling along side her, trying to be the calming voice in the situation. Marlena didnt speak she pulled away from Hope and tried to get up. A slight pain in her abdomen prevented her from doing so.

 

“Doc.. Im gonna take you to the hospital.” Rojohn explained reaching out towards her.

 

“No!” She pulled away and succeeded in standing up. Hope helped her to steady herself as Marlena stared in disbelief back and forth between the two Romans.

 

“Doc, Im sorry to scare you, you know I would never mean to hurt you, I didnt mean for this to happen this way, but I had to see you I-” Roman started

 

“HEY! you dont get to speak, not to her not to anyone untill we know what the hell your up to” Rojohn demamnded.

 

“Listen to me buddy… I dont know who you are.. but this-” Roman yelled.

 

“Dont say it! Dont you tell me again that your-” RoJohn shouted back stepping towards the other mans body.

 

“STOP IT!” Marlena shouted. The four adults in the room turned their attention to Marlena. She could barely breath, she prayed silently that this wasnt happeneing. That she would just close her eyes and everything would be the way it was, the way it had been.

Surly this was just some sort of horrible nightmare. She looked again back and forth between the two men, her head realing.

 

“I want answers…and I want them now…” She stated finally.

 

*******

 

She was numb. She sat in her office waiting on the sofa for her entire life to change. Her mind began to replay countless moments of her life…. it was as if she was watching it happen again in slow motion.

 

Roman entered Marlena’s apartment and tossed his sleeping bag on the floor…..”Im not going anywhere..”

***

[i]She rememberd Samantha’s death and Roman taking her to Mexico…their first time having strawberrys and whipped cream…first kiss.. first time..him proposing… her being pregnant with the twins… each moment began to replay faster and faster and faster untill she remembered meeting John and time stopped.

 

“Hes not Stephano… Hes Roman” Marlena ran up the hill with Romans photo in her hand. “This picture was taken right before the plastic surgery… your Roman” she cried as she leaped into RoJohns arms.[/i]

 

Their wedding…making love… being with the kids… each simple moment RoJohn and she shared seemed to play back in her mind, richer and more clearer than her earlyer memories of Roman. It was as if her life in the past 8 years was completly different than the one she had led before.

***

” Mommy mommmmy!!!Daddy Dadddddy!!!!” 4 year old Sami and Eric ran towards RoJohn and Marlena as they carried a newborn sleeping Belle into the house. Rojohn bent down and scooped the twins up at the same time kissing them both on their heads.

“Hey you guys… meet your new baby sister… Isabella” he said leaning them into Marlena who was holding the baby. Marlena beamed as she watched her family welcome its newest member

 

****

 

Her realing mind caused tears to spring from her eyes. She leaned forward and burried her face in her hands as a small sob escaped her lips.

 

“What if its true… what if he really is Roman..” she thought to herselfRoman and the man claming to be Roman were downstairs taking DNA tests. The results of those tests would change all their lives forever.

 

Her thoughts were interupted by a knock on the door, she sat up and turned towards the door as RoJohn stood in the doorway. She didnt speak, nor did he. Their eyes locked and her heart almost lept out of her chest. She wanted to run to him, have him hold her in his arms and tell her everything was going to be ok. That they would go pick up the kids and just hold eachother all night long. At the same time, she was almost scared of him. She didnt know who he was anymore. She didnt know what was real or what to believe. He looked back at her and his heart sank. She could tell by the look on his face he was hurting just as much as she was. He stepped further into the office and shut the door behind him. The anticipation was killing her as she studied his face. He couldnt speak, couldnt move. He just stared back helplessly at the woman he loved more than life itself.

“I really need you to say something…” Marlena spoke quietly.

 

Rojohn looked down at his feet then back at Marlena.

“Doc there arent enough words to even begin to say everything I want to say.”

 

Marlena swallowed hard before responding.

 

“So is it true?” she said breaking eye contact with him. Their positions never changed. He remained leaning against the door to her office, she remained on the couch. Neither sure of the others reactions, should they move closer.

 

“We wont know anything for a while yet… hes downstairs with Abe and Bo…they are questioning him while we wait for the results.” he explained.

 

Marlena didnt know whether to be relieved or disapointed.

 

“Hope said you were up here… so I wanted to make sure you… and the baby were alright.” he explained. Hearing him mention the baby, their baby caused her to cringe with sadness. No matter what the tests said, it wouldnt change the fact that 2 of her soon to be 4 children were fathered by this man standing in front of her, the man she had claimed to have loved with her whole heart.

 

“We’re…” She began to speak, her voice cracked. Tears sprang to her eyes as she leaped from the couch and over to where he stood. She wrapped her arms so tightly around him, almost climing on him as soft sobs escaped her mouth. He held her tightly as he too had tears in his eyes.

 

“Shhh… its ok….its gonna be ok.” He assured as he kissed her temple as she continued to cry in his arms.

 

“You dont know that!… You dont know whats going to happen so how can you say everything is gonna be ok…. Roman do you know what this means!!” She said quickly switching from sadness to anger as she hit her hand against his chest. He grabbed her wrist abruptly.

 

“Yes I know what this means… If that test shows that the man down there is in fact Roman Brady… the real Roman Brady…This means that the life I’ve been living… the live WE have been living for 8 years has been a lie…it means EVERYTHING we thought we knew…. Everything we did and felt and experienced has been based on a lie….It means I have no idea who the hell I am or who sent me here or what the hell Im doing… So yes Marlena I know what this means! But what I dont know is what its going to mean for us!” he shouted at her. She stared into his eyes in stunned silence as he released her arm from his grip and he walked away from her and towards her desk.

 

He was lost for a moment in all the photos on Marlena’s desk. Their wedding photo, a photo taken last summer of Carrie the twins and Belle at the beach, a photo of him the twins and Belle right after having a snowball fight, and a photo, he knew it was one of her favorite photos, taken their first Christmas together, he was looking into the camera but she was staring up at him one hand on his heart wearing the biggest smile on her face. That was his life, their life… His heart sank.

 

“It sounds like you’ve already decided hes right” She said softly breaking the silence.

 

“Come on Marlena!… You took one look at him and fainted…you knew it back at the Pub. You know hes Roman…you know thats what the tests will say. The question is who the hell am I !!!!” he yelled. She wanted to tell him he was wrong, but she couldnt. As much as she didnt want to believe it, she felt it in her gut. Before she could do or say anything else he said, “I gotta get outta here” and stormed out of the office.

 

“Roman wait!” She cried after him. Before she got to the door of the outer office… She saw Abe Bo and Roman approaching her.

She watched the three men approaching her, and a wave of nausea washed over her body. Whatever they had to say she didnt want to hear it. She had to go after Rojohn. She went to push her way past them when Abe took her arm gently but quickly forcing her to look into his eyes. He had been her friend for years now, she knew by the look in his eyes she had to face what he had to tell her. With one last glance down the empty hall she reluctantly sighed and led the men into her office.

 

****

“Marlena were bringing in the ISA to fully investegate everything, but its true from what we found.. it seems this is infact Roman… and well “Roman” is John Black again for lack of better understanding” Abe explained. Marlena stared blankly as her heart sank.

 

“Marlena I know this isnt easy for you to hear and clearly I can see things are going to be much more complicated than I had pictured… but Im back!.. Ive waited so long to see you and the kids again… and I just hope that we-” Roman tried.

 

“Stop… Just stop!” Marlena begged as she rose from her seat on the couch. Her stomach was in knots she could feel her blood boiling. She looked back and forth between the three men as her breathing became faster and faster.

 

“What do you expect me to do?” She asked finally. Bo and Abe remained silent.

 

“Well to be be honest it would be nice for you to be even a little bit glad to see me” Roman spoke rising from his seat.

 

“I do appologise for not throwing you that welcome home party but you show up out of nowhere after 8 years and expect me to just leap into your arms like I saw you yesturday” she snapped.

 

“I was Stephano’s prisoner I didnt just leave you.. I explained all that.”

 

“Yes you certainly did… You explained alot… and those DNA tests explained alot too… but you know what we had DNA tests that told us John was Roman Brady too so forgive me if Im not so quick to take this new discovery to heart.”

 

“Marlena… I am Roman, the man you fell in love with the man you married…and I know its been a long time and I mean I’ve known since I got back to Salem that you were married to someone else, I saw you with him, And as sad as I was at first, I was glad you found someone.. I was glad you and the twinners werent alone all those years but What I never realized was that, that man was pretending to be me!”

 

“He was not pretending! He had as much proof as you have!” She shouted almost suprized for being so defensive.

 

“Marlena those test were fixed.. Its what Stephano wanted you to believe.. he sent John here Im sure of it…”

 

“NO! He is my husband and the father of my children… and Im not going to let you stand there and tell me anything else!” She shouted at him.

 

“Marlena! You only married him because you thought he was me!… My life.. my house, my kids… its our memories you have… you let him take over my identity… but Im Roman Brady… Im your husband damn it!” he spat.

 

Her ability to breathe was becoming increasingly harder as the anger hurt and sadness filled her.

Before she could say anything else she felt a shooting pain in her stomach. She bent forward grabbing onto her desk for support as her eyes shut tightly with pain.

 

“Marlena!?” Bo and Abe and said in unison going to her side. Abe held onto her as she breathed through it. Roman was wise enough to step back and keep his distance. He didnt want to upset her but he couldnt understand her position.

 

“You alright?” Abe asked quietly. Marlena’s eyes remained closed as she just shook her head.

“Look Bo why dont you take him down stairs for a while.” Bo nodded as he led Roman out. Marlena pulled away from Abe’s arm.

 

“Marlena let me get your doctor.”

 

“No…Im fine… it was just a cramp…” She turned back and saw she was alone in the room with him. She looked down at her hand that rested on the small swell of her stomach. Her body sank with sadness as she looked back at her friend, her eyes brimming with tears.

 

“Abe” she cried as she completly lost control of her emotions and began to sob. She reached out to him and he pulled her into a hug.

 

“I know.. I know…” he assured her, his heart breaking to see his friend in pain.

 

“Marlena I’m so sorry… I wish I could change all this for you… but I really think you should let me get your doctor” he spoke into her ear.

 

“I dont need a doctor…. I need someone to tell me how my life got so screwed up!” She cried pulling away from him.

 

“What am I gonna do?” she cried as she walked over to the sofa and lowered herself down. Abe sat down along side her and put his arm protectively around her.

 

“Marlena, I just wish I knew how to make this easyer for you.”

 

“What kind of horrible person am I?” she spoke as her sobs eased as Abe looked back at her confused.

 

“.. if he’s Roman… if thats my husband as you all keep telling me.. and if thats so then he’s been through hell and back to come to me after all these years… Why is it that I’m not happy, that Im not ecstatic that hes come back to us? All I can feel is selfish and hurt and heartbroken that the man I love and have loved for the past 8 years, the family that we have and were planning to have, the life that we shared will be destroyed by this. And all I can think about is defending him despite the fact that I dont even know who he is…and I keep thinking how hes out there somewhere heartbroken and lost and how I want to go to him! and I… I” She burried her head in her hands as she cried.

 

“Your not horrible…your human… and you love Rom- John or whoever he is. As far as you and everyone else is concerned he is your husband too. At the very core of all the confusion over names or identitys is your love for him. This news doesnt change the fact that you love him you have children with him. Anyone whos ever seen the two of you can see that the love you two share runs so deep. And I never thought I’d say this to you but Ive always thought you’ve been much happier and so much more in love since he came back- or into your life. I’m not telling you to forget about Roman,and I know none of this will be easy. I just want you to know its ok to feel what your feeling.”

 

Marlena stared into his eyes greatfuly as she leaned into hug him. As she pulled away she winced as she felt another cramp in her stomach.

 

“Marlena please let me call your doctor.” Abe begged as Marlena held her eyes tightly shut as another pain went through her. After a moment she looked up at him with fear in her eyes knowing this was not good. Silently she noded as he left to get help. Marlena leaned back on the couch as she rubbed her one hand across her stomach in attempting to soothe the pain with the other hand she tried to massage the pounding in her head. She began to silently pray, for her baby, her family…this was only the beginning of the pain.

“Is the baby alright?” Marlena asked as she adjusted her position in the hospital bed.

 

“Well your blood pressure is much higher than I’d like it to be, but the baby’s heart rate and movement seems normal, I think the cramping is due to stress, and considering what Lieutenant Carver told me your under a great deal of it.” Dr. O’Connell explained.

 

“Yea you could say that…” Marlena replied quietly as the pounding in her head persisted.

 

“Marlena, I’d like to keep you here a while to monitor you and see if we can get your blood pressure down before I release you… So try to relax as much as you can and I’ll be back to check on you in a little while…page the nurse if you have anymore cramping ok?” She requested.

 

“Ok… Thank you.” Marlena replied as Dr. O’Connell left the room. Marlena leaned her head back against the bed as her hand absentmindedly made circles across her belly. She had feared the worse when her cramping began but was feeling much better that she hadn’t experienced another cramp for a while now. She closed her eyes as she tried to let her body relax if that were at all possible as the thousands of thoughts reeled through her mind. Within a moment she heard a knock on the door. She sat up as she told the person to come in. Her breath got caught in her throat again as she saw her past and Roman standing at the door.

 

“Marlena?… I don’t want to upset you anymore than I already have but I was wondering If we could just talk for a few moments alone.” He asked calmly. Marlena didn’t speak but nodded in reply. She watched in awe at his movements, his mannerisms, she was too upset and confused to pay attention before, but he really was the Roman she remembered.

 

“Is your baby ok?” He asked first, a hint of sadness in his voice.

 

“Yes…” She said simply. She couldn’t help but stare at him as he sat on the stool next to her bedside.

 

“It really is you” she spoke quietly. He smiled warmly as he nodded. Before she could say or do anything else he leaned in towards her pulling her into an embrace.

 

“Oh God Doc… I’ve missed you so much” he spoke as he held her. At first she was taken back by the embrace but she quickly eased at the familiarity of it. “Doc… I don’t know how to make this easier for any of us, but I want you to know I’m sorry to have gotten you so upset.” He said pulling away.

 

“It’s not your fault…It’s just a shock… for all of us.” She explained.

 

“I realize now that given the fact your having a baby with another man, things are a lot more complicated-“

 

“This isn’t the only child we share…. We have a daughter, Isabella” Marlena interrupted quickly. Roman’s eyes widened as his expression turned from anger to sadness.

 

“Guess we’re even then…”

 

“What?” She asked.

 

“We both have two children with you.” He said his voice filled with cockyness.

 

“This is NOT a contest.” She spoke disgusted. Roman sighed as he got up and paced the room.

 

“I’m sorry Doc…I just don’t know what I’m supposed to say…It would be one thing if you had moved on with another man all those years ago, but what I cant get passed is that you just found him and were so quick to accept him as me…You thought you were still married to me! And all these years you’ve all just been pretending.”

 

“Roman- I thought… we all thought it was the truth… We believed what we were told…We wanted to believe it was true… I needed to believe it was true. The day you died I was broken. I had newborn twins and Carrie and I was alone without their father and the man who promised to grow old with me. So yes when I thought I got you back, I jumped onboard and held on so tight, because I couldn’t bare to be with out you again.”

 

“But that wasn’t me!! And I’m here now! And you know nothing about this guy… John or whatever his name is. You don’t know what he’s doing here, you know nothing about his past and I’m just supposed to accept the fact that he was holding my place for the past 8 years.”

 

“It isn’t about who he is or isn’t, its about what happened between us, those feelings are real, our family is real. And I know that hurts you and I’m sorry but its not my fault. I don’t know what I’m supposed to do. I don’t know how to tell my children that the only daddy they have ever known is not their father. I cant do that… I wont do that… It will destroy them…” She spoke as the tears streamed down her face. He was about to speak but stopped himself. Instead he just stared back at her sadly.

 

“I didn’t want to upset you again… I didn’t want any of this….I’m gonna go” He turned and walked out before she could say anything. The tears streamed freely down her face as she leaned back against the bed. She took slow deep breaths trying to calm herself down as her eyes fluttered with exhaustion. She looked down at her left hand at her wedding rings before she turned onto her side and dreams took over.

She walked alone down a long hallway. She didn’t know where she was but was sure she didn’t want to be here. There were no doors along the way just photographs lining the walls on either side. She stopped to look at the photographs hoping to figure out where she was and was taken back to see a familiar photo staring back at her. It was from one of her first dates with Roman. As she looked down the hall she saw her wedding to Roman. Along side of that photograph was a photo of Marlena very pregnant with the twins as Roman was lovingly laying a kiss on her belly, followed by a photo taken when they brought the twins home of them and Carrie. Where the hell was she? She looked to the other side of the hall and saw her wedding photo to RoJohn. Photos of them when the twins were growing up, happy times, a photo of all of them after Belle’s birth, holidays, birthdays. Wonderful times even the not so wonderful times of her life played out before her along either side of the hallway. It was as if every moment of her life was on display Divided into moments before John and after John. She walked further and further down as tears filled her eyes until she got to two separate doors. She reached out and touched both knobs at the same time and they were locked. She began to pull as she heard Roman and Johns voices calling her name. She turned around trying to find where they were coming from.

“Doc…”

“Doc…”

“You have to choose… Have to choose” the men said in unison.

“ Why are you doing this…Please… Just let me out of here…”

“Not until you choose…There’s only one door that will open.” the mens voices answered. Marlena wanted to scream and cry out as she began pulling both doors.

 

John watched as tears fell down Marlena’s cheek as she began to toss and turn in her sleep.. He had to wake her but wasn’t sure which would be more upsetting to her, her nightmare or this reality they were thrown into. He gently pushed away the hair that laid on her face as he caressed her cheek softly trying to wake her.

 

“Doc… Marlena… Sweetie wake up.”

Marlena stirred and her eyes opened to his face. His beautiful face, those beautiful blue eyes. Her hand went to her cheek as she wiped her tears away hoping to wipe the thoughts of her dream away from her as well.

 

“You were having a bad dream..” He spoke. She ran her hand through her hair as she sat up in bed.

 

“It wasn’t a dream really…” she spoke sadly. “How long have you been here?’ She asked changing the subject.

 

“About two hours now…” He said adjusting the stool closer to her bed

Marlena looked around confused that she had been asleep that long or longer.

 

“You’ve just been sitting here staring at me?”

 

“Yuppp’ he grinned. She missed him… it hadn’t been that long and she missed everything about him but at the same time was still so confused about what she should feel.

 

“How did you know I was here?” she asked.

 

“Well…” he began with a sigh.

 

“I left… and I went down to the pier…and I stood there feeling sorry for myself. But then I thought of you…and I realized how badly you were hurting…and how selfish I was to have left you…so I came back to see you…and they told me they admitted you, and so I’ve been sitting here ever since.”

 

“Oh” she replied simply.

 

“Marlena…how are you feeling.” He asked with his voice filled with concern.

 

“Physically… ok I guess… I haven’t felt anymore cramping.” She explained as she ran her hand across her stomach. She locked eyes with him and felt that familiar feeling, the connection she craved.

 

“Doc…I don’t know who I am” he said sadly.

 

“I know…”

 

“And I don’t know what kind of past I have or how the hell I ended up here…”

 

“I know” she whispered.

 

“But I do know, that I have loved you every moment of everyday since the instant I saw you.” He spoke as both their breaths got caught in their throats. “And I don’t know what your thinking, or feeling about all this, and I would understand why you would want me to walk away right now-“

 

“No, No that’s not what I want at all.” She said taking his hand in hers.

“We may not know your name, or your past but I know your heart, I know your soul and the thought of losing you makes me physically ache.” She spoke as the ever present tears stung her eyes.

 

“Marlena…. I don’t want to lose you either but everything is different, this changes everything. We’ve been living a lie”

 

“No- No What we shared was not a lie.., the connection we have is real, the love we have shared is real. This baby is real” she said placing his hand onto her stomach.

“You are the father of my children, the twins included, your the only father they have ever known. You were there for every birthday, holiday, every school play, soccer game, dance recital, every cold, every scrapped knee or broken bones, you love them with your whole heart and they love you. You’re their daddy… and like I told Roman I can not and will not tell them anything different.” She watched as John had tears falling freely down his face.

 

“You told him that?” he asked surprised.

 

“Yes.. I did…” she said suddenly feeling guilty. They sat in silence a moment.

 

“I guess I’m wrong for feeling this way. I feel like everyone will expect me to go to Roman and just start my life over with him. But I don’t think I can. It may be wrong but I cant just forget all you and I shared…. I don’t want to live a life with out you in it.” She cried. Before she could say anything else he leaned into her pulling her head forcefully towards his lips. Their lips explored each others with such need and desire she wept in between kisses. Her arms wrapped tightly around his neck, never wanting to let him go as their kiss intensified. She knew if they were together, they could get through anything, she prayed this wouldn’t be any different.

Their lips broke away from one another’s and she sighed slightly. She missed him already. She hated that. She hated how much she needed him. Not just physically, though lord knows she needed that too. She needed to talk to him, to confide in him, she needed his companionship, his friendship, his love. Staring back into those deep blue eyes she was lost again in the sea of questions. Questioning who he was, what would happen to them but mostly how she would ever live with out him. The thoughts were broken by a quick knock on the door as the doctor entered. John quickly moving from her bedside to the chair nearby.

 

“Hello Marlena, how are you feeling.” Dr. O’Connell asked as she approached the monitors Marlena was attached to.

 

“Much better than before.” Marlena replied shifting her position as her eyes remained glued to John.

 

“Any more cramping?” she asked as she examined Marlena’s chart.

 

“Um, no not really since earlier.”

 

“Ok.. well your B.P has lowered some but not as much as I’d like. But baby’s heart rate is stable. Since its almost 3am anyway I’ll just keep you here and release you in the morning….”

 

The doctor continued to talk to Marlena but John no longer listened. He watched her every move. She looked tired…concerned. He watched the way her hand pushed part of her hair behind her ear, he watched as her other hand lay protectively on her small belly rubbing tiny circles across it. The baby. Their baby. That was one thing that really was his, whoever he was, the baby was one part of his life he could be positive about. And Belle. His mind started to trail back to when Marlena was pregnant with Belle…Very pregnant to be exact.

 

***

“I think Mrs. H had a great idea letting us the Horton Cabin. You really need to get away from the stresses of work and the twinners… try to relax before the baby comes.” Roman explained as he set the bags down and helped a pregnant Marlena into the cabin.

 

“I guess your right… No phones, no visitors especially since its off season here” She grinned “But I do feel bad leaving the kids with your parents though. 4 year old twins are not an easy task to take on.” Marlena added as she rubbed the soreness in her back

 

“No its not especially when your 7 and a half months pregnant! They will be fine though! So now you come and sit down while I get some wood for the fire.” He reached out for her hand as she sighed at his cautiousness of her but followed him anyway. She got to the couch and lowered herself down and decided to pull Roman down with next to her.

 

“The fire can wait” she grinned as she dove into his lips.

“Mmmm Mrs Brady.” He said between kisses as his hands explored her body coming to rest on the large swell of her belly. He broke apart from her and looked down at the fullness of her body. He leaned in and kissed her stomach sweetly before returning back to her lips. She wrapped her arms tightly around his neck as his tongue entered her mouth. She gasped as a wave of pain came across her.

 

“What is it?” Roman asked breaking their contact. Her eyes remained closed as another pain swept over her and she gripped her swollen stomach.

“Doc?” he asked again his voice filled with fear. She opened her eyes and relaxed her face giving him a reassuring grin.

 

“Its ok…I think the baby is just doin summersaults” She said as she rubbed her hand across her trying to soothe the movements.

 

“Your sure?” he said still concerned.

 

“Yep…now where were we?“ She smiled as she leaned in to capture his lips. His lips left hers and began a trail across her cheek and to that spot behind her ear then that spot on her neck that drove her insane. It was there that he heard her take in a sharp breath, this time he thought for sure it was her arousal. However he watched as she bent forward slightly holding her stomach.

 

“Marlena??” He watched as she took short breaths to get through the pain. This time when her eyes met his he saw the fear that mirrored his own. She opened her mouth to speak.

 

“Roman…Roman- …John?… John?”

 

***

 

“John??” she said louder this time shaking him from his memories. She felt strange calling him John again, but anything else would be too confusing.

 

“Humm? Yea?” He said focusing realizing the doctor had left.

 

“You alright?” She said concerned.

 

“Yea sorry, I’m fine…I was just thinking.”

 

“Clearly it was intense because you were so zoned out you didn’t hear me or the doctor talking to you… are you sure your ok?” she asked. John got up and sat next to her on the bed.

 

“Yea… I was thinking about when you delivered Belle… do you remember that night?”

 

“Of course I do, the birth of your child is not something you forget… especially when your stuck on an island and your husband is the one who ends up having to deliver your baby!” She smiled, probably for the first time in hours. He adored her smile.

 

“I just remember… being so scared. I don’t think I was never so scared in my whole life as I was that night.” He recalled. Not that I’d remember otherwise, he thought to himself.

 

“Well you certainly fooled me. I was falling apart and you… you were incredible. You saved both my life and Belle’s that night.” She said taking his hand into hers.

 

“No.. you, you were incredible, besides, you did all the hard stuff… and baby you’ve been saving me since the moment I met you…” He said as he caressed her face softly with his hand.

 

He looked into her eyes the most beautiful hazel eyes. He didn’t know why he kept thinking about that night but he did. He remembered looking into her eyes the night he delivered Belle. He remembered the fear, the pain, the tears and then the joy that laid in her eyes that day. In a way… tonight was a bit like that night. Everything he thought he knew was almost taken from him the night in the cabin, he could have lost both Marlena and the baby, could have lost his whole world. And now… tonight, knowing he’s not Roman Brady, knowing the life he was leading was not his own… In a way he was facing loosing her and their future all over again.

 

“Seems like a lifetime ago now doesn’t that?” She spoke softly.

 

“Yea…” he trailed off breaking his eye contact and looking around the room.

“But listen you should really get some rest… Its late… and I should-go” he finished.

 

She didn’t want him to go. She wanted nothing more than for him to hold her all night and tell her everything was going to be ok. Yet at the same time she knew how difficult it was for him and that this was only the beginning, maybe he needed time alone. Selfishly she had to ask though.

 

“Would you….stay? Here… with me?” She asked softly as he turned to face her. How could he deny that face?, but he didn’t know what Abe or Bo or even the new found Roman would say if they found him here in the morning. On second thought he didn’t give a shit what they thought.

 

“Sure.” He went to move over to the chair to sleep there when she cleared her throat to get his attention. He turned back and she had lifted up her blankets making room for him in the hospital bed. He grinned as he kicked off his shoes and climbed into bed with her. Immediately she snuggled against him, breathing in his sent. She felt so safe in his arms, so loved. They would face the world, the family, the children tomorrow but for now it was only them. He sighed contently at the familiarity of their position as he kissed the top of their head. He knew they had a million more things to say to each other… a million more questions and answers to figure out. But not now…He took his free hand and rested it on top of Marlena’s belly as her hand met his, interlacing it with her own. The steady beat of their child’s heart rate was the only noise in the room as they both held each other and drifted to sleep.

He watched. He wanted to look away… but he couldn’t. The love of his life and that imposture lay peacefully wrapped in each others arms as they slept. He wanted to go in there and rip him off from her, the way he had ripped her away from him 7 years ago. He didn’t care that it wasn’t really their faults. He didn’t care that they might all very well be innocent victims of Stephano Dimera’s games. That was his wife, the mother of his children, his lover and his friend and now she was all those things to that man. She had given a heart that wasn’t hers to give. As much as Roman wanted to scream and get that man away from Marlena part of him was frozen with sadness. They looked so content despite their location. Her head resting on his chest, their hands protectively wrapped around the small swell of her belly. So at peace, so connected. It was in that moment watching them that Roman realized she had already made her decision. Despite knowing that he wasn’t the real Roman Brady, despite not knowing who he was, who sent him or what the plan was, she chose him last night. She wanted to be with him last night despite knowing her real husband, the real Roman was back. “It should be me…It should be our baby.. our life” he thought to himself. It was then that Roman’s heart began to hurt as he finally turned to walk out of the hospital room.

 

John stirred awake noticing their location and was quickly reminded of the situation. He looked over and saw Roman walking out of the room. He had been watching them. John looked down at Marlena. He had woken up countless mornings wrapped in her arms. But this time…he wondered if it would be their last. Marlena’s eyes began to flutter open as she habitually pulled her body closer to John’s… or Roman’s as she had thought of him. For the briefest of moments he saw a smile on her face and then just as quickly as it appeared it was washed away. She pulled away from him and tried to sit up being careful of the monitors she was attached to.

“Hey” he spoke softly as he sat up next to her. She rubbed the soreness in her neck as she gave him a half hearted smile. Neither knew what to say both had silently prayed that when they woke up they previous day would have just been a terrible dream. It wasn’t.

“I should go get a nurse and see about getting you home…” he said rising from the bed breaking the awkward silence. She nodded but still said nothing as she watched him walk into the hallway.

 

He stood outside her door and stretched his back as he was still adjusting to being awake. He turned for the nurses station and he saw Roman in the hall on a payphone. Roman hadn’t seen him yet and John debated on what to do. He decided to first have someone check on Marlena and then he would deal with Roman. John watched as Roman hung up the phone and made eye contact with John. The stare down began. Both men began walking towards each other, neither sure of what they would do or say when they met but continued to walk the distance between them. Finally they stopped, both standing tall exuding their male bravado. John looked Roman up and down and could not figure out how anyone could have ever confused him with Roman. “I’m taller than him, stronger than him and a hell of a lot better looking than him if I do say so myself.” He thought.

“So….” Roman spoke first.

“So” John repeated. Neither man knew whether to punch the other one out or begin asking a million questions.

“How is she?” Roman asked, his voice a mixture of concern and hesitation.

“fine.” John replied staring down at him.

 

“Mr. Brady?” a nurse called towards them.

“Yes?” they habitually replied in unison. They quickly looked back at one another, Roman standing his ground as John was hit with the reality. The nurse, who had seen John with Marlena all night, assumed he was her husband but didn’t know what was going on between the two men and decided to just continue.

 

“I just need you to complete these release forms and then you can take your wife home.” She said holding out a clip board to John. The two stared down at the board as if it was made of gold, a prize to be won. Roman stepped back and allowed John to take the papers. John walked over to the nurses counter to fill out the papers as Roman just paced the floor. A few moments later Marlena appeared in front of them, dressed in the outfit she had worn the day before to Shawn and Caroline’s party. She looked back and forth between the two men in the hall. Hesitation and uneasiness spread across her face and body language as she saw that Roman was still there.

 

“You all set to go Doc?” John asked as he set down the paperwork and walked closer to her and Roman. She didn’t move. With so much to say, they didn’t know where to start.

 

“I need to get the kids.” She spoke after a moment.

 

“Ok… but there fine at Ma and–Shawn and Caroline’s” John corrected himself, the pain appearing on his face.

 

“I need them home with me” she explained. She didn’t know what she would say to them when she saw them, she didn’t know what to say to anyone all she knew was she wanted them with her. John said nothing, he simply nodded. The three stood there in the hall of the hospital not saying anything for a moment. Last night she was so sure. Last night she had John she wanted him, needed him, but today… Today she again was faced with the reality and the enormity of what had happened, she knew inside simply running to John’s arms would not solve or change anything, not this time, she couldn’t hide from this. Too many lives were at stake… too many lives would be changed.

 

“Doc… what are you going to tell them?” Roman asked. She turned to him and saw the sliver of hope that still laid in his eyes. She knew what he wished for but she wasn’t sure she could give it to him.

 

“Nothing.” She said simply to the surprise of John and Roman. “Yet” she finished. John could see the hesitation in her. He saw something different then he saw last night. He wasn’t sure what had changed in her but he saw the confusion and it made him nervous.

 

“I don’t know what to do. I don’t know what to say to them, or you, or to anyone.

But I think that I need to be alone… with the children … for a while, because they need to come first. Its not just about me or either of you. Its their whole world. I can’t let it just come crashing down on them.” She explained. That was the Marlena both men knew. She was a mother first, always had been.

 

“Whatever you need Doc…” Roman spoke as John remained silent.

 

“Why don’t you let me take you back to the house and—John can go pick up the kids.” Roman offered. Before John could object, Marlena did.

 

“No- thank you… I think it would be best If I just did it all alone. It might be best if—“ she stopped a moment and looked at John as if to apologies in advance. “if neither of you came back to the house with me…for now” That was not what either man wanted to hear but both loved and respected her too much to argue. As much as John wanted to take care of her… the look in her eyes told him not to fight her on this. He simply reached into his pocket and handed her the car keys. She reached out and felt his hand squeeze hers before releasing them. She did her best to ignore it. She looked back at Roman. His eyes pleading. Her heart ached. Silently she turned and walked away leaving them both standing there.

Marlena was going to go straight to Shawn and Caroline’s but decided against it. She wanted to shower and change before she went over there. She didn’t know what they had told the kids about where she and Rom-John went last night but she thought it was best to not show up in the same outfit she last saw them in. She entered the front door and shut it quickly behind her, but then she stopped. She stared around the empty living room, chilled by the deafening silence that filled the house. It seemed so big now. She glanced around at how everything had been left 24 hours ago. They had been running late that morning as usual. The coffee table still covered in paper, crayons and markers from where the kids had been making cards and signs for Shawn and Caroline’s Anniversary party. Carries sleeping bag laid next to the door from her return that morning from her friends house. His shoes. John sneakers lay in the middle of the hallway from when he returned from his morning run. She rolled her eyes as she recalled how many morning she had yelled at him for leaving his stuff laying around. She hated how the house looked so unchanged. Everything was obviously exactly where they had left it in their hurry. It was as if they had left everything assuming they would just return and straighten up later. Assuming their lives just like the house would remain unchanged. That’s a sick joke… “Stop it” she thought to herself as she moved away from the doorway and towards the stairs. She made it two steps when the familiar pain in her heart appeared. The stair case was lined with photographs. Of her and Roman, the kids, family and friends from all stages of their lives. Some formal, some candid, all wonderful. She ran her finger across one photo in particular taken last year. They all looked so happy. RoJohn had Belle on top of his shoulders and Sami and Eric under each arm as Marlena stood next to them laughing at his true test of strength. Those sweet babies…. How would she ever explain this. The pain in her heart was soon matched with the familiar sting of tears in her eyes as she looked along the walls at all the memories. “Stop it” she repeated again to herself, this time out loud. “Just go… and shower…and bring them home.” She continued as she walked up the stairs trying to ignore everything she saw. She entered her bedroom and did her best to remain unaffected by it. She tried not to notice his dresser with all his things on it, his pile of clean laundry he left on the edge of the bed even after she had asked him to make sure he put it away. She tried not to think about the bed and countless times they had made love there. She tried… but failed. There were traces of him everywhere… traces of them everywhere… it was their bedroom, their home but right now it felt like just a house…more like a prison. A prison of memories of what once was and what will no longer be. She ran the water as she took off her clothes. She didn’t wanna see those clothes ever again. She caught a glimpse of herself in the bathroom mirror and did a double take. She stared a moment at the image of her naked body then quickly looked down at herself. She was five and a half months pregnant and as she looked down on the small bump that was forming she could swear it had gotten bigger even since yesterday. She rested her hands on her stomach a moment before stepping into the shower.

 

The water fell hard against her body and she exhaled slowly as it worked out the tension in her muscles. She leaned her head back wetting her hair as she tried to clear her mind. She reached over to get the shampoo when she saw Johns body wash sitting next to it. She quickly flashed back to a morning last week when she had joined him in the shower to help him use it. The more she thought about it, it was possible that they had showered more together than they did separate. Again she tried to clear her head. as the heat of the water raised. She kept seeing the pictured on the wall in her head. Her babies… she didn’t know what to say to them or if she should say anything at all. And then there was Roman. Despite her obvious love and longing to return to John… there was still Roman. Her Roman. She could not get the look on his face as she was leaving out of her head. He looked at her so longingly, so hopeful. She didn’t want to hurt him. She didn’t want to hurt any one. But it was becoming clear that could not be an option. The more she thought the heavier her breathing became. She placed her hands against the shower wall as her head hung down, the water running over it. She tried to slow her breathing down but she could not stop her mind from racing. Finally with her hands pushing firmly against the wall she let out a scream. Which led to another scream… a blood curdling scream using every last breath in her body until the scream quickly turned into a sob. She lifted her head up pushing her hair from her face as she leaned her back against the wall. She couldn’t control her sobbing as she slid down to the floor of the shower. Her elbows rested on her knees as she buried her face in her hands. She should be stronger than this… She should be able to hold it together… shes already cried about this. Crying wouldn’t do anything, wouldn’t change anything. But here alone in her shower… all she had were her tears.

Marlena walked up to the front door of the Brady house. She didn’t want to look them in the eye. She didn’t want to see their pain…didn’t want their pity…didn’t want to answer their questions. All she wanted to do was to get her children home.

 

“Marlena darling.. how are you doing!” Caroline said concerned as she greeted her at the door.

 

“I’m- -fine.” She said as she avoided eye contact. Caroline studied her daughter-in-law closely. She saw the puffiness in her eye, could see how hard she had been crying.

 

“Marlena… I –“ she began.

 

“MOMMY!!!” was yelled into the living room as Belle ran towards her. That was the greatest sound in the world to Marlena right now. Marlena dropped to her knees as her little girl ran towards her arms. The familiar pain in Marlena’s heart returned as she realized this little girl was the result of the love she shared with John… not Roman. Belle wrapped her arms tightly around her mothers neck as Marlena squeezed back. Marlena held on tightly to her daughter breathing in the sent of her strawberry shampoo, trying not to tear up when Belle leaned in and kissed her cheek. She held on tightly until she felt Belle squirm.

 

“Moooommmy you swishing me!!” Belle explained and Marlena loosened her embrace smiling sheepishly.

 

“Sorry sweetie…. Were you a good girl for grandma and grandpa?” She replied as she let go.

 

“Yeaaaaa” Belle stated as she lost interest in her mother when she spotted her puzzle over on the coffee table and went to it. Marlena stood up and turned towards Caroline who had been looking on sadly at the exchange. Caroline had so many questions and so much she wanted to say to Marlena but she could see that Marlena was trying to hold everything together by a thread and didn’t have the heart to mention the situation that was eating them all alive.

 

“Ohh Marlena.. the twins and Carrie are in the kitchen with Shawn helping with lunch… have you eaten? Would you like to join us?” Caroline asked. Marlena had no appetite at all but when she thought about it she realized she hadn’t eaten anything since yesterday at the party. Nevertheless the mention of food made Marlena’s stomach turn.

 

“Umm No thanks Caroline I-“ as she spoke she placed her hand absentmindedly on her stomach. It was then as she felt the bump and stopped mid-sentence. The baby. It wasn’t just about her, she had to think about the baby. She was putting it through enough stress already. She would force herself to eat.

 

“Uhh actually I think I will…” Caroline smiled and wrapped her arm around Marlena’s waist as they called Belle into the kitchen with them.

 

They were greeted by the kids laughter as they took their places at the table.

They looked up and smiled at their mother who had entered.

“Hi mommy…”the twins said from their seats. It was Carrie who had walked over to Marlena and hugged her tightly.

 

“Marlena… how are you feeling?” Carrie asked sweetly, her voice filled with concern. Marlena hugged her back but for a moment wondered if Carrie knew anything. Marlena pulled away and cupped Carries face in her hands.

 

“Yes sweetie… I’m feeling much better thanks.” She said kissing Carries forehead and then walked over to the table. Shawn grabbed Marlena’s hand and gave it a sympathetic squeeze before he pulled the chair out for her at the table.

 

“Hey Mommy… is Daddy with you?” Eric asked innocently as he dug into his lunch. A lump got caught in Marlena’s throat before she could respond.

 

“Uhh no.. Sweetie he’s not.” She said praying that would be enough. She looked down at her food. She didn’t want to eat.

 

“Is he gonna meet us at home? cus he said he would go with us to the pool today.” Eric continued.

 

“Ohh yeaa I forgot Daddy said that” Sami chimed in. Marlena was trying with everything she had to hold it together. Their innocence was making it all so much harder, so was the piercing looks she received from Shawn and Caroline. Still she kept fighting.

 

“Umm…guys I don’t think – daddy is gonna make it to the pool today. He has a lot of business to take care of.” She lied as she watched the disappointment on the twins faces. This is only the beginning she thought.

 

“But he said he would because were leaving for camp tomorrow and it’s the last day we could all go together.” Sami explained. Camp! She had completely forgotten that Sami and Eric were going to summer camp for the next two weeks.

 

“Ohh that’s right.. well why don’t I take you guys instead?”

“I guess… but no offense mom but dads more fun in the pool, he can toss us around and do flips and stuff.” Eric beamed.

“Well I guess I can’t do all that… but I still think we can have a good time.” She forced a smile.

 

“Marlena are you sure your feeling up to it?” Caroline interjected into the delicate situation.

“Yes…Im sure.” Marlena replied forcing her smile again. No she wasn’t sure. In fact she didn’t want to go to the pool at all. In fact she became overwhelmed with this urge to crawl into bed and shut everything and everyone out. But with one glance at her children surrounding her at the table, oblivious to all tension that surrounded them she knew she couldn’t.

 

***

By some miracle she was able to leave the Brady’s with out having to discuss the Roman and John situation. Not because she didn’t love them and not because she didn’t think they deserved to talk about it but between the kids being there and how complicated everything was, they didn’t, she couldn’t.

The kids bounded into their house. Sami and Eric went upstairs to their rooms and Carrie volunteered to get Belle ready. She didn’t know how much longer she could keep quiet. She didn’t know when it stopped being about protecting them and became doing more harm than good. She couldn’t think about that now. She had too much to do. She had to get them ready for the pool and then scramble to get the twins packed for summer camp. All that would surly keep her busy. Keep her focused… she hoped.

 

**

The Salem Town Pool was packed on this hot August afternoon when Marlena and the kids arrived. They all dropped their stuff off at a row of lounge chairs and Sami and Eric ran right for the pool.

 

“Hey be careful you two!!!” Marlena called after them.

Belle tried to go too before Marlena quickly scooped her up to put on her swimmies.

 

“Mommmma I wanna go wiff them!” She squirmed.

 

“Not yet sweetie… you have to wait for me.” She explained as the three year old fought in her arms. Marlena was exhausted already and they had only just gotten there. Maybe this wasn’t the best idea but it was too late.

 

“Marlena, my friend Megan isn’t here yet so if you want I’ll take Belle over to the kiddie pool for a while.” Carrie suggested. Marlena finished putting on Belle’s swimmies but nevertheless kept her arms around her so she didn’t go bounding towards the deep end. She looked up gratefully at Carrie.

 

“Oh sweetie that would be wonderful… You have been such a huge help to me. I cant thank you enough.”

 

“Its no biggy… I like helping out with my brothers and sisters.” Carrie smiled innocently as she reached for Belles hand who happily skipped off with Carrie. Marlena leaned back against the lounge chair as she watched Sami and Eric happily playing in the pool. She took what seemed to be the first deep breath she had taken all day as she massaged the slight ache that she felt in her back.

With in a moment she felt his presence. She looked up and lowered her sunglasses to see John standing in front of her chair.

 

“Hi…” she said as she stood to meet him.

 

“Hi… look I’m sorry I know I said I would stay away but I remembered the promise I made to the kids and … well knowing you… I knew you’d be here with them…I just didn’t want them to think I didn’t care…. Or that I forgot. Sooooo… here I am.” He said keeping his distance from her.

 

“yes.. here you are” She replied.

Marlena watched John, he seemed almost uncomfortable in her presence as the two stood in front of each other.

 

“Umm… well the kids will be really glad to see you….You know I completely forgot they had camp tomorrow.” She explained.

 

“Yea.. Yea so did I… Its understandable.” He shifted his weight from foot to foot. She couldn’t stand the tension. He broke eye contact and looked towards the pool where the kids had met up with their friends and were playing happily. They hadn’t even seen him yet. He turned back towards her, he couldn’t really look at her though. It was too hard. What he had to say would be too hard.

 

“Look, If you want me to go…after I say goodbye to the kids, I will. I just.. I didn’t want to disappoint them anymore than I had to.”

 

“No… that’s not what I want at all. Like I said they’ll be glad you’re here.” Her stomach was doing summersaults with all the anxiety she was feeling. She lowered herself back down on her chair and ran her hand across her stomach to soothe it.

 

“You alright?” he said concerned taking the seat across from her.

 

“yeah…” she said simply. “John… I need to know what your thinking… I’m gonna burst.” John looked down at his feet.

 

“Doc… I don’t think we should get into this now… not here.”

 

“John, Please… you obviously have things to say or you wouldn’t have come here… so just say them… no one is over here.” She explained motioning to the secluded corner of the pool where they sat.

 

“Fine….Ive been thinking.. a lot.. since this morning and I know that I want nothing more than to be with you forever … but what scares me… what I keep thinking about is that picture… I keep seeing you running up that hill after you found that picture and you thought I was him.” He explained as Marlena shut her eyes tightly overcome by the emotions of that memory.

“ I remember that look on your face… Its all I can keep thinking about since I saw you leave the hospital… I never saw you so happy till that day. It was like you were running into the arms of the best thing that ever happened to you…remember that?” She couldn’t speak, she knew she couldn’t deny that as the tears stung her eyes.

 

“That day, that look told me that he was one of the good guys. So you see my hesitation to just continue to take over his life.. his family.”

“Its your family now too!” She snapped.

 

“ I want to hate him… I want to make him disappear again but…It wasn’t his fault he wasn’t there Doc.. and the kids…the twins and Carrie…they need to know the truth.. they need to know who their father is… how do we keep this façade going?”

 

“Façade?? John…You are all they know! That is real. And our love… that’s real too… I love you” Her sadness turning to anger.

 

“Doc…You love who you thought I was… I am not the man you fell in love with”

 

“That’s not true!…I do love you, yes I thought you were Roman, a different kind of Roman and I fell in love with you not just some memory of another man. Just because your not Roman doesn’t mean I didn’t fall in love with you. Don’t diminish what we had. We had real feelings.

 

“Of course there were feelings Doc but that doesn’t change the truth, I’m not who anyone thought I was, that is not my house and I am not the twins father.”

 

“But you are all they know! You are Belles father and this baby’s father…Why do I feel like your giving up on all that.. giving up on us? Why are you having these doubts!!??” She said louder but not loud enough for others to hear them.

 

“Doc I don’t want to give up but I’m doubting everything now! When I heard I wasn’t Roman…time stopped. You were my world…you and those kids were my whole world… you were there when I didn’t know who I was—”

 

“AND ILL BE THERE AGAIN!” She shouted before realizing where she was. She couldn’t believe they were having this conversation in public but it had to be done.

 

“John! I thought a lot about things today too and each time it came back to you. Yes its true… when I thought you were Roman I was elated. But since then it had always been different between us, better. I think somewhere down deep I knew you weren’t Roman…I never wanted to believe it… because I never wanted THIS. But we have memories, we have history that doesn’t even compare to what Roman and I had. I don’t want to hurt Roman but I cant help how I feel. I don’t know how many more times I need to tell you… or maybe tell myself but Its you… I want you.. I want us. You are my heart and you are my soul and I wont live with out you. And I don’t care what I have to do…. And I don’t care how hard it is. I know that if I have you… I can get through anything. We can get through anything. So please… Tell me you feel the same way. Tell me you’ll let me help you. Tell me we can be together! ” She pleaded as tears fell down her cheeks. Johns tears matched her own as he reached out and took her hands.

 

“Baby I’m sorry… I’m so sorry… I do want that… You know I do..” He stopped mid-sentence and leaned in towards her capturing her mouth.

Their kiss intensified until they both realized they were surrounded by half of Salem at the pool. John pulled away and took her face in his hands.

 

“I’m so sorry Doc…” he said as he brushed away the stray tears with his thumb.

 

“What are you sorry for?” she said removing his hands from her face and taking them into her own as they rested on her lap.

 

“I’m sorry for all of this, I’m sorry your caught in the middle….I’m just sorry.”

 

“Don’t be sorry… were all in this together.” She said squeezing his hands.

 

“DADDY!!” Sami and Eric yelled, interrupting the moment. John looked down in reaction to the name they called to him. Marlena released his hands as he anticipated the impact of the twins. They leaped onto John soaking him with their wet bodies.

 

“OooOhhh guys…. Ever hear of towels?” he laughed

 

“Mommy said you weren’t coming!” Sami said as she took her place on his lap as Eric remained leaning on his back with his arms wrapped tightly around John’s neck. John looked at Marlena for a second before looking at Sami.

 

“Umm.. yea she was right… but I knew I promised you and-“

 

“And Daddy never breaks his promise!!” Eric said as he moved from Johns back to the spot next to him on the chair in front of Marlena. John’s heart sank.

 

“So Dad are you coming in the pool with us?” Sami asked hopefully. John looked over at Marlena who was staring at the three of them blankly. He wasn’t sure what the right answer was. He looked at Sami then at Eric. Their deep blue eyes, their sweet faces. He couldn’t say no.

 

“You bet…” He said. With that Sami jumped from his lap and she and Eric grabbed his arms to pull him up. John grinned and pretended the 7 year olds were strong enough to lift him.

 

“Easy, Easy!” he laughed as he rose. He turned back to Marlena who was still sitting silently taking it all in. Before he could say anything Eric spoke up.

 

“Here comes Carrie and Belle…” he said excitedly. Belle walked hand in hand with Carrie and then let go and went running to John when she saw him.

 

“Heyyya Tink” He beamed as she reached out for him to pick her up.

 

“Hayyaa Daddy!” she mimicked.

“Carrie wanna come in the big pool with us now? Daddy said he’s coming too.” Sami asked.

 

“Umm maybe in a little bit… hey Dad? Is it ok if I go hang out with Megan now for a while? She just got here.” John was about to answer then suddenly realized he had no right to. Marlena looked up at John at his silence then at Carrie.

 

“No problem sweetie…just check in with us if you’re going far.” Marlena answered.

 

“k, thanks!” Carrie smiled as she turned to leave. Eric was getting restless.

 

“Can we go nowwwww?” he asked. Belle began to squirm in Johns arms at the prospect of something more exciting. He set her down and she walked over to Marlena.

 

“Yeah… listen you go ahead and I’ll be right there…” He said.

 

“Mommy lets go!” Belle said pulling at Marlena’s hands, even though Belle had no idea where they were going. Marlena smiled and stood up. She looked at John and sighed before giving a small smile. Belle took off after Eric and Sami. Marlena went to walk after them when John reached out and stopped her.

 

“Doc, this is–…he’s gonna fight for them, fight for you…and I can’t blame him.” He said sadly. She looked down and then back at him.

 

“I know…but we’ll figure it out…together.” She reached out her hand for him to take as she moved to go after the kids. They walked silently hand in hand towards the pool where the kids were waiting for them. Once again avoiding the inevitable and continuing to play the parts of the happy family.

 

***

 

Marlena leaned on Eric’s bed as she zipped his suitcase closed, running through the list in her mind hoping she had packed everything he would need for camp. She winced slightly as she felt a soreness appear her back. With one hand leaning on the bag she took the other and began massaging her lower back. John entered Eric’s room and saw her. He walked over to her and quickly replaced her hand with his as he rubbed the soreness. She was about to object but she felt her body relax at his touch, instead she leaned both arms on the bag for support.

 

“Thanks” she said as he stopped.

 

“No problem, Sweetie why don’t you let me finish this, you should go lay down.” He suggested as she stood up and faced him.

 

“No, I mean, I’m finished, he’s packed, did you put Sami’s out in the car?”

 

“Yes. What else can I do?” he asked.

 

“Uhh I think that’s it for now really…”

 

”Ok well then why don’t you go put your feet up on the couch and I’ll figure out dinner for everyone.” He said reaching to tuck a stray hair behind her ear.

 

“No, you don’t have to…”

 

“Doc, Please, you look exhausted.”

 

“Gee thanks!” she laughed.

 

“Come on, just go relax for awhile, I’ll take care of everything else.” Marlena sighed but she couldn’t argue. Between her emotional rollercoaster ride and running around with the kids all day, she really was exhausted. She simply nodded as she leaned her head against his chest taking a moment to feel their connection. He kissed the top of her head as she walked out of the room and down the stairs. She heard the kids in the play room as she entered the living room and smiled at the fact they all seemed to be getting along. She walked over to the couch, it looked like heaven. Just as she was about to collapse onto the couch there was a knock at the door. She debated on whether or not to ignore it but instead leaned back up and walked over to the door. With out looking through the peep hole she swung open the door. She took a sharp intake of air at the sight before her.

 

“Roman” she said quietly.

Roman lunged towards John, and in the process he knocked into Marlena who had to grab onto the side of the house to steady herself. John reached out and shoved Roman as hard as he could away from the doorway to the house and onto the front lawn.

“Don’t do this!” John warned him. He looked back towards Marlena to see if she was alright. When he turned around Roman decked him across the face.

 

“ROMAN!” Marlena cried as she stepped towards them. John took his hand from his face revealing a bloody nose. John was about to swing back but Marlena was standing in between the two men now.

 

“I’m out here on the doorsteps to my own home begging to see my own children while the two of you are in there playing house!!!???” he shouted.

 

“Roman please just calm down!” she said as she looked around hoping none of her neighbors were witnessing any of this.

 

“Calm down? Are you out of your mind? This bastard deserves a lot more than a bloody nose!” Roman said as he shoved John.

 

“Look this isn’t easy for anyone… but this isn’t going to help anything.” John said calmly.

 

“Really? I think it will make me feel a lot better” Roman said pushing him again. Marlena stepped away and pulled on Romans free hand to stop him.

 

“Roman please!” she said mortified this was happening period especially on the lawn.. Roman yanked his hand from hers.

 

“You… you took my wife…( Roman pushed John’s chest) … you took my children…(push) my family.. my house (push)… my job.. MY LIFE! And I’m supposed to step back and let it go on?” Roman shouted before going to deck John again. This time John knocked his hand away and punched Roman in the gut causing him to fall to the ground.

 

“John DON’T!” Marlena said grabbing onto John. Roman quickly stood up and charged towards John. John quickly moved Marlena aside as he intercepted Roman and was knocked to the ground. Marlena couldn’t believe what she was seeing. Roman and John wrestled on the ground and Marlena could do nothing to stop them. She wanted to grab them but she knew she would just end up getting hurt.

 

“Roman! John! STOP IT NOW! Your acting like animals!” she cried.

 

Marlena looked away and up towards the front door to see Carrie appear in the door way.

 

“Marlena? Daddy??” she yelled concerned as she walked closer. The two men stopped at the sound of her voice and quickly backed away from each other and stood up.

 

“Oh God” Marlena cringed. This was not the way Carrie should have to find this out.

 

“Sweetie… go inside…” Marlena managed to get out past the lump in her throat. Carrie couldn’t make out the figure standing besides John because it was getting dark. She continued to walk towards Marlena. Marlena reached out and pulled Carrie into her body. If she held her tight enough maybe this would all go away. Carrie pulled away from Marlena determined to find out what was going on. It was then that she made out the features of the other man. She stood frozen at the realization. John and Roman both stood silently each with bloody noses and ripped clothing. Marlena didn’t know what to say. She just wrapped her arms around Carrie and tried to get her to walk.

 

“Carrie… come inside baby..” Carrie allowed Marlena to lead her into the house where John and Roman followed. Carrie didn’t speak she just turned around and watched as Roman came into the house. It was her father, no doubt about it. Her breathing became heavy as she looked back and forth between him John and Marlena. She didn’t know what else to do but to start to cry.

 

“Carrie…. Let us explain” Marlena tried.

 

“Your….he’s…..why?” She asked as the tears fell down her face.

 

“Pumpkin its ok” John said instinctively. Carrie shook her head from side to side.

 

“No… no… don’t call me that” she said. At that same moment they heard Sami and Eric laughing hysterically as they came down the stairs. The twins stopped in their tracks as they saw the serious situation going on in their living room. Marlena felt sick to her stomach as things continued to get worse.

 

“Whats going on?” Eric asked innocently.

 

“Daddy what happened to you?” Sami asked as she walked towards John.

 

“THAT is NOT your Daddy!” Carrie yelled before running up the stairs to her bedroom.

 

The adults cringed and the twins stared at them looking for answers.

It was an ache she could not describe, she physically hurt. She stood motionless watching her two children, John and Roman standing in front of her.

 

“Whats Carrie talking about Mommy?” Sami asked. Marlena cringed and tried to muster up any strength she had left to answer her.

 

“Uhh.. shes upset baby-” she began avoiding eye contact with Roman and John.

 

“But why did she say hes not our daddy?” she asked again.

 

“Daddy whos your friend? And how come you guys are bleeding? Is he a policeman like you? Did you have to go after a bad guy?” Eric asked almost excited, ignoring Sami’s question to Marlena. John looked up at Marlena for guidance. She hated Roman for doing this. Not now.. not here.. not like this. Damn him. Waves of nausea flew through her body in addition to the familiar and unbearable ache she felt. She was already so drained as it was, physically, emotionally. She honestly didn’t know if she had the strength to deal with this all now. But with one look at her children’s innocent faces and the realization that Carrie was upstairs, confused and devastated she knew she had no choice. Marlena knew she would do anything for her children, Carrie included. She would get them all through this somehow. She didn’t have a choice.

 

“Roman— Why don’t you and… why don’t you two go in the kitchen and get cleaned up.” Marlena said taking the first step. By the look in her eyes Roman and John knew not to say another word and to just do as she said.

 

“Mommy whats goin on?” Sami asked sensing the tension in the room.

 

“Guys where’s Belle?” Marlena asked.

 

“She fell asleep downstairs in the family room while we were watching the movie.” Eric explained. Marlena sighed with the slightest bit of relief.

 

“Sami… Eric… do me a favor…can you please go up to your rooms for a little while, I need to talk to Carrie, then we all need to have a talk. Can you do that for me?”

 

“Are we in trouble?” Sami asked.

 

“Oh no sweetie, not at all, I –just, we just…need to talk.” Marlena walked towards them and pulled them both tightly to her. She kissed the tops of their heads and willed herself not to cry.

 

“Mom… are you ok?” Eric asked releasing himself from Marlena’s hug.

 

“I’m just fine…I just love you guys so much.” She said stepping back and looking at them.

 

“Aww mom this is because your gonna miss us when were at camp right?” Sami grinned, Marlena cringed, wishing that was all it was.

 

“Yeah..” She said quietly. “Ok, so please go on upstairs and ill come get you guys when I’m ready”

 

“Ok…like a family meeting?” Eric added as he walked towards the stairs. Marlena just nodded and quickly turned her back to them. She placed one hand across her mouth and the other on the swell of her stomach, trying to fight both the sobs she wanted to release and the nausea she felt. With in an instant she heard Roman and Johns voices getting louder in the kitchen. Her eyes filled with rage as she took off into the kitchen. She pushed through the swinging doors and saw Roman and John stepping towards each other.

 

“Stop it!… So help me God if either one of you takes one more step I will absolutely loose it!” she demanded as both men stopped in their tracks to look at her.

 

“Now you listen to me and you listen good. I am done. I am so close to the edge its not even funny. The two of you and your chauvinistic, animalistic behavior is done! I asked you to stop, I begged you to stop and you wouldn’t listen” Roman was about to object when Marlena took a step towards him pointing her finger at him.

 

“You. You no longer get to speak. You no longer get a say because you did this. You forced this on me and on them. I asked you to wait, to let the twins enjoy their time at camp, to give me time to prepare myself and Carrie. You wouldn’t.”

 

“You two can play house and I’m supposed to just wait outside like a bystander?” Roman snapped.

 

“Get a new line buddy!- John started

 

“Shut it!.. Both of you!” She snapped. Both John and Roman were taken back at this side of Marlena.

 

“This is no longer about you, either of you or your feelings. This is now about MY children. I have to figure out a way to tell them something that will shake all sense of security and normalcy they had. I have to do this in five minutes because the two of you forced this on me and I will never forgive you for this….

I am going upstairs to Carrie. I am going to try and explain this mess to her and pray she will be alright. I am then going to have to tell the twins. If either of you care even the slightest bit about me or those children you will cut the bullshit and act like civil towards each other. If either of you feel you can not shut your mouths and keep your hands to yourself and be anything but supportive you need to leave this house right now. And if either of you do anything to hurt these kids anymore than we have to so help me I’ll kill you!” She spat spinning around to leave the kitchen.

 

Roman and John stood in stunned silence. The maternal mother lion instinct certainly kicked in for Marlena. John was the first to move walking over to the freezer taking out two ice packs. He reached out his hand to give it to Roman. Roman hesitated at first but accepted. Both placing them on the wounds on their faces.

 

“Shes right ya know…” Roman said.

 

“She usually is.” John grinned in spite of the situation.

 

“I don’t want to hurt them… I didn’t want to hurt her.” Roman confessed sitting down at the kitchen table.

 

“It’s a little late for that.” John said taking the seat at the opposite end of the table.

 

***

Marlena got to the bottom of the stairs and gripped onto the banister. They deserved everything she said and more. She looked up the stairs and they seemed to go on forever. She took a deep breath as her nausea still lingered and began to walk up the stairs. Arriving at the top she began to walk towards Carrie’s door where she heard loud banging noises. She opened the door with out knocking to find Carrie throwing things over her head and out of her closet in search of something. After closing the door behind her a large book came whizzing towards Marlena and she reached out to catch it. When Carrie didn’t hear the landing noise she turned around and exposed her tear stained face.

 

“Carrie what are you doing?” Marlena asked.

 

“I don’t get it…”

 

“I know sweetie..”

 

“No!…I forgot what he looked like…what he use to look like… and I have these pictures somewhere… and I hid them a long time ago just like you did….because I didn’t want him to be sad or the twins to see them… and I-“ Carrie stopped in her tracks as she found the box of photographs she was looking for. The box was filled with her as a young child with Marlena and Roman, the real Roman, the man she just saw downstairs.

 

“ Carrie….” Marlena got down on the floor next to Carrie and held on tightly to her.

 

“I thought…you said….he was….but-“ she said as she continued to shake and tears fell down her face.

 

“Baby, Im sorry Im so sorry… let me explain everything.”

 

“I wanna go… I wanna leave” Carrie said as she struggled out of Marlena’s grasp.

 

“Carrie please listen to me!” She said as she reached out again to her.

 

“That’s him…that’s my dad right? The man downstairs?” Carrie cried.

 

“Yes.. yes he is.” Marlena said fighting her own tears.

 

“But how- and who is the man we’ve been calling dad then? And why is this happening?”

 

“Sweetie, I’ll tell you everything I know…”

Carrie sat on the floor in front of her closet staring at Marlena who sat across from her. Carrie sat taking in all she was told.

 

“So what happens now?” Carrie asked breaking the silence. Marlena took in a deep breath before continuing. She didn’t have an answer.

 

“Baby I don’t know…” Marlena spoke softly.

 

“So…are you gonna stay married to John? or are you gonna live with – my dad?”

 

Marlena ran her hand through her hair as she still had no idea what to tell herself let alone Carrie.

 

“Carrie…my marriage, to- John is not legal now that your father has come back.”

 

“But what about Belle… and the new baby?” she asked. Marlena wanted to help Carrie through this but the more questions Carrie asked, the harder this was becoming for Marlena.

 

“I’m sorry Carrie… but I just don’t know whats going to happen.”

 

“Well isn’t it up to you?” Carrie asked simply.

 

“It’s more complicated than that…. Sweetie… I’m gonna go check on things downstairs… are you gonna be alright for a while?” Marlena asked. Carrie nodded as Marlena leaned in to kiss her. Marlena struggled to get up from the uncomfortable position on the floor. Carrie grinned for the first time in hours as she jumped up to help Marlena stand. Once standing Marlena pulled Carrie into a hug.

 

“Thanks…” Marlena said as she took Carries face in her hands, wiping away the stray tears with her thumbs.

 

“I love you Carrie…we’ll get through this together…”

 

“I love you too Marlena.” Marlena walked out of the door and shut it behind her. She leaned all of her weight against the hallway wall and sighed. She fought hard to think of a time that she felt worse than she did right now. Her head was pounding, her stomach was queasy, her back ached but most of all was this heaviness in her heart. She knew that if she was tested by a doctor right now her blood pressure was probably through the roof. She looked over and saw Sami walking into Eric’s room carrying a board game. As if nothing had happened. As if nothing was about to happen. She couldn’t do this. She pulled herself away from the wall and began to walk downstairs. When she got there she saw John and Roman. Roman was sitting at the dining room table and John was at the opposite end in a living room chair. Both stood up and walked towards her when she entered. They both noticed how drained she looked. They saw how much the past 2 days have taken a toll on her both physically and emotionally. She leaned her arms against the back of the couch as she looked at the two men.

 

“Hows Carrie?” Roman asked first.

 

“As well as can be expected…shes got a lot of questions… and I don’t have any answers.”

 

“I think we all have a lot of questions Doc.” John added. Marlena hung her head and closed her eyes a moment.

 

“I cant do this” she said finally. “I should be stronger… I should be able to do this but I can’t. I can not tell the twins. Not now, they are so focused on camp they didn’t even give what Carrie said a second thought. And maybe I’m stalling but I don’t care. If I can give them this time, these memories before they find out then I’m going to.” She added looking for reactions from John and Roman.

 

“Its fine…let them go to camp… “ Roman said. Marlena and John looked at him surprised.

 

“Doc despite what you may think, I do care about you and the kids deeply, and I didn’t mean for this to get so out of hand. I just…saw you two and I just…I don’t know how to handle this.”

 

“None of us do” John added. Marlena was yet again at a loss for words. She didn’t have the strength to talk about any of this anymore.

 

“I ‘m sorry… I done, I’m just sooooo done today. I need to lie down.” She admitted bringing her hand to her head.

 

“Ok… What can I do?” Roman asked concerned for her.

 

“Nothing…Just.. I think it would be best if neither one of you stay here tonight.” She explained looking at John especially.

 

“Tomorrow, the kids will be at camp…and we can talk then.” Roman and John wanted to say more but with one look at her they agreed for the first time that it was best for them to say nothing. Roman was the first to head towards the door and turned back to see if John followed.

 

“I just need to grab some of my things.” John explained as he headed upstairs. Marlena walked over to the couch and lowered herself down. Roman walked over to her.

 

“Marlena…Is there anything I can get you?” he asked seeing how drained she was.

 

“No, Roman…” She said as she leaned her head back against the couch.

 

“Ok…We’ll Ill be at mom and pops tonight.. if you need anything, or tomorrow” he explained. She said nothing but nodded. Not knowing what else to do he turned and left. A few moments later John entered with his bag packed. He set it down by the front door and walked over to Marlena.

 

“Doc… I don’t want to leave you like this.”

 

“You have to…now that Carrie knows, its just… too hard.” she whispered. Suddenly she sat up realizing what she was doing.

“where will you go? Here I am kicking you out and you have no where to go!” she said.

 

“Marlena, Ill be fine, ill get a hotel room,” he explained. Marlena eased back against the couch.

 

“John…I don’t want you to think this means I don’t still love you… I just don’t know what else to do.”

 

“I know…well can I do anything before I go?” he asked. Again she only nodded. She wanted to reach out to him, but knew if she so much as touched him, she would break down. He thought the same thing and silently left leaving her alone in the living room. Marlena looked around and for a moment their was silence. And then the twins came down the stairs.