Stepping out of the coffee shop on 5th, he rounded the corner, running smack into…
“Fuck! Damnit!” Well, this just my day isn’t it?
“Oh God, I’m so sorry.” Woah, dude, stop staring at her. Fuck,
she’s gorgeous. Now that’s what I call a fucking walking wet
dream.
“What the fuck? Are you fucking blind?” So, he spills coffee all
over my shirt and now he just stands there and stares. Men! (…)
But still, look at that bod. Oh God, those abs, the chest. Holy
shit! I just looked at his groin. Think about work, think about
work. Hospital, patient, this man as my patient, throwing him on
the couch and having my way with… Shut up head!
“I’m so sorry Ms…?” He wanted to say Evans, but he wasn’t
certain.
“Evans. Marlena Evans.” Miss? Well, when your hubby’s a complete
asshole, it’s allowed.
“Hey, I know you! I’m John Black.” He extended a hand to shake
hers, but she ignored it. “You work at the hospital right? And
you’re Sami’s Mom.” Did I just say that?
“Yeah.” And here we go with the…
“Woah.” He looked her up and down. Man, what I wouldn’t give
to …
“Woah what asshole?”
“No need for rude comments Evans. You really don’t look old
enough to have a 20 year old or whatever, daughter?” Why am I
sweating?
“Well, I do. Now would you pay up for this Dolce outfit so I can
get as far away from men as possible?” Dolce? This cost $9.99 and
it sure as hell wasn’t at D&G.
“Woah, you’re rough lady.” This woman exasperated him, yet
intriged him. She was rude, obnoxious, but she was gorgeous
while doing both. “Dolce?”
“Okay, fine, it’s not Dolce. But it is my favourite shirt, and it did
just go out of production. I figured if you paid me for Dolce, I
could afford a Dolce.” Why am I defending myself to this jerk?
“Someone got up on the wrong side of the bed.”
“I’m sorry, this is just not a good day for me.”
“Can I offer you a coffee and a shoulder to cry on?” What am I
doing? I’m flirting with this woman, who obviously has to be
taken. She offered him a smile in return for his attempt to ease
the mood with a coffee joke.
“I won’t take up your time. Sorry for the rudeness, you’re excused
about the coffee, have a good day.” Turn around, walk away,
simple as that.
“I try to be, and am by the way, a perfect gentleman and I just get
blown off like this? How about a drink then? You look like a
Cosmo girl.”
“Are you sure? I tend to get melodramatic.”
“Hand me those bags, we’ll stop by my office and see what we can
do about that shirt.” He offered his arm for her to hold onto,
but she dismissed it and walked ahead of him.
An hour later at The Blue Note.
“I can’t believe you had this shirt!”
“Dave! Two Cosmos!” Two?
“Oh my god, you’re gay! I knew someone couldn’t be that hot and
single at the same time.” Rats!
“I’m not gay, you just look like you needed two.” Nice save there
buddy.
“Great. Not only am I a bitch who lashes out at people, I look like
an alcoholic.”
“Nah, you look… beautiful.”
“Thank you.” She caught his look and felt chills down her spine.
“Why do you do that?”
“What? What do I do?”
“You… Look at me, and I… you make me nervous.”
“You’re lying. I don’t make you nervous.”
“There’s like this, chill, every time you look at me.”
“That’s called chemistry, gorgeous.”
“We definitely have that.” He held her gaze as she twirled the
stick in her drink. It was too soon to be love, but there was
definitely something about Marlena Evans he wanted to know
more about.
“Oh my God, you didn’t!” John and Marlena walked through the
elevator doors that led to the two-floor apartment that Marlena
shared with her husband, Adrien.
“I swear to God. Don’t know the woman, don’t like the woman,
don’t wanna get to know the woman.” John looked around the
huge space. It was tastefully decorated. Minimalistic. Simple.
“I can’t believe you got married in Vegas.”
“Drunk! And to a woman I don’t know, nor like.” The phone
buzzed and Marlena went over to answer it.
“Hello? Hi, Alice. Sure, one second.” She looked towards John
who was watching the fish in the fish tank. “John, could you do
me a favour? In our bedroom, there’s a brief-case. Can you bring
it down to me?”
“Sure. Up the stairs?” He walked towards the steps.
“Just up the stairs, then to the right, end of the hall. Thank you.”
Once up the stairs, John took a few seconds to admire the
pictures of Marlena and Adrien on the wall, stretching from the
floor to the roof. “Well, it’s true what they say, all the good ones
are either taken or way out of your league. Or both. Okay, so to
the right… End of the hall.” He opened the door to the bedroom,
only to be faced with…
“John?”
“Marlena! What are you doing up here?” He unknowingly spoke in
a whisper.
“I just remembered that I left the breif-case in the kitchen… Do I
have ghosts?”
“What?”
“Why are we whispering?”
“Why don’t we just go downstairs?”
“Sure, let me just get my jacket. I spilled coffee on the other one
remember?”
“No! You can’t go …” Before he’d finished the sentence, Marlena
had opened the door and stopped dead in her tracks upon
witnessing her husband, obviously unaware of her presence,
occupied with a brunette. John put his hand over her mouth, just
as she felt like screaming and dragged her out of the room.
“What?” she practically yelled at him.
“Marlena, this has to be upsetting for you, and I know you
probably wanna cry right now, but first of all, try to calm
yourself, ease the blood pressure.”
“Calm myself? I’m gonna kick his ass, that’s what I’m gonna do!”
She started towards the bedroom, only to be held back by John.
She struggled to get free.
“Will you listen to me? Did you see the brunette in there?”
“You mean the whore, slutting it up with my asshole of a husband?
Yeah, I saw much too much of her, thank you!”
“That’s my wife.” Marlena gasped and stared at him, completely
shocked. “Yeah, exactly. Do you have a camera?”
“Eeew gross! I don’t know what gets you off John, and from the
sound of it, I don’t wanna know!”
“Use that gorgeous head, will you? I’m going to take a picture.
That way I won’t have any issues getting an annulment.”
“Ohhh.” Her eyes lit up at the thought. “You’re good at this. You
should be a cop or something. Or an agent for the FBI, CIA.” She
walked to a dresser in the hallway and pulled a digital camera
from one of the drawers.
“Okay spy-girl, get over here. Blitz is… Off.” She placed herself
behind him as he snapped away.
“It’s on. I can’t wait to nail his ass.” John snapped 30 or 40
photos, to make sure he got viewable ones to show a lawyer,
because he knew his ‘wife’ would fight an annulment.
“We’re outta here…”
“Where are we going?” She grabbed his hand and followed the
quick pace he walked in.
“My place. It’s not as big as this place, but it’ll do.”
“I need clothes.” Marlena said it casually, but John stopped dead
in his tracks and grinned.
“Marlena, what do I do for a living?” She responded with a cute
little grin and a wink as they walked out of Marlena’s home.
“Wow, nice place. Typical, typical, typical.” She walked around,
taking in the things in his apartment. Typical bachelor’s pad.
Barely any furniture, large space.
“What’s typical?”
“Your place. It’s so… Bachelor…”
“Really? What’s so bachelor about it?”
“No furniture, dirty dishes, very… cold.”
“Well, I am a bachelor. Never did settle down, never wanted to…”
“Not even if you found the woman of your dreams?” His eyes met
hers as she said those last words.
“Maybe… If I found a woman worth giving up the only life I know
for. Maybe.”
“Good to know.” She winked at him.
“Tsk tsk tsk Mrs Knight, are you flirting with me?”
“Don’t call me Mrs Knight.”
“Sorry. Must’ve been upsetting seeing him with my wife.”
“It’s just… We slept together in that bed. The least he could do is
take her to a hotel.”
“Woah… You don’t look like a woman who just found out her
husband is cheating on her.”
“To tell you the truth, it wasn’t the perfect marriage. We didn’t
really talk, we had the sexual chemistry down to a T, but we
didn’t have that … soul connection. You know what I mean?”
“Yeah, I know…” He tore his eyes away from her. “So why did you
marry him? A marriage can’t be based on sex alone, you don’t
seem like the kind to marry just because of sexual desire.”
“I dunno, it was quick. I guess… He was my ‘knight’ in shining
armor.” John howled in laughter, as Marlena grinned.
“Score! Best post-‘I-just-found-out-my-husband-cheated-on-me’
joke I’ve ever heard.”
“Thank you, thank you.” She did a little bow while sitting and their
eyes met again. “So… Where do you keep the booze?”
“You want a drink?” She looked at him firmly as she stood up, and
he pointed to a corner as he said. “It’s over there…”
“I don’t want a drink, I want booze. Hey, a cheating spouse is a
great excuse to get drunk and have revenge sex.”
“Woah!” John jumped off the couch. “That’s why you came with
me? Revenge sex?”
“God no. Don’t worry. I won’t try to seduce you Mr Black.”
“You would’t have to.”
“So if I asked you to have sex with me, you would?”
“Hell yeah.”
“Okay, let’s go…” She reached for his hand as she turned and set
her sights on the staircase.
“Woah, woah, now? You just… I can’t take advantage of you.”
“So you lied.”
“Huh? You’re very confusing you know that?”
“So I hear.”
“I’m not going to have sex with you because what you saw today
was very upsetting.”
“Don’t tell me how I feel.”
“You’re telling me that you’re not upset your husband cheated on
you?”
“The only thing I’m upset about is having to throw the silk sheets
in the trash.”
“You’re … weird.”
“Annnd…?”
“And what?”
“Tell me more… Tell me the real reason you won’t sleep with me
tonight. I’d do you in a heartbeat, and you just got cheated on
too.”
“I swear, everything I heard about you Miss Evans – said you were
a perfect angel, not a painfully tempting seductress. So… are you
just covering up the hurt of seeing Adrien with another woman?”
“Hey, I’m the shrink here. I’m not covering up the hurt. Did it
ever occur to you that maybe what you hear about me isn’t the
real me?”
“So I’m seeing the real Marlena Evans?”
“No wings baby, just me. I’m not the angel the newspapers make
me out to be. I’m a good person, but I’m not perfect and there’s
no wings or a halo above my head.”
“I think you’re perfect the way you are.” He moved towards her.
“And I think your husband is an asshole for cheating on you.” His
face was only three inches from hers. “And I think you’re the
most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen.”
“Liar.”
“I never lie… in my personal life. You’re mesmerizing.”
“Thank you. But sorry if I have trouble believing a man who’s
trying to get me into bed.”
“I already told you. I’m not going to take advantage of you. If,
after you’ve had some time to deal with your husband, you still
want to sleep with me, then I will be happy to oblige, to make love
to you.”
“Make love? What are you, a girl? I don’t want you to make love to
- I want you to have sex with me. Just breathtaking,
mind-blowing, incredible, amazing sex. A one night stand. Nothing
else. Of course if we’re both satisfied, we can do this again.”
“Marlena…”
“John, you know you want me.”
“That is not the issue.”
“Then just forget about my husband and your wife, and give into
this.” She kissed him. He gave in slowly. Her hand went to his
chest and she started to unbutton his shirt.
“We can’t do this Marlena…”
“You want this.”
“Yes, I do, but we can’t do it.”
“Oh, I think we can. It’s not a marriage proposal. It’s just one hot
night of amazing sex with someone who’s practically a stranger.”
His hand found her shirt and slowly unbuttoned it.
“I want you so much. You’re like a greek goddess.”
“I want you too John. You’re the first man who’s noticed me in a
long time.”
“I doubt that. How can anyone not notice you?”
“People look at me, but you’re the only one who’s really noticed
me.”
“I never wanna take my eyes off of you.”
“Take your pants off.”
“God, you’re beautiful.”
“Where’s the bedroom?”
“Way. Too. Far… Look at me…” She stopped and stood still just
to look at him. “Anytime you wanna stop, we’ll stop…”
“I know. I trust you.” Both of their hands laced together as he
moved them towards the giant couch. He sat down at the edge of
the sofa and she stood between his legs and his hands circled
behind her thighs. He lifted her the tank top she’d worn
underneath her shirt upwards as he leaned in to place kisses on
her stomach. Her words just minutes earlier rang in his mind. How
could anyone not notice her? The more he saw of her, the more
he craved her. He wanted everything about her.
Marlena straddled his lap as she continued to kiss his mouth,
occasionally leaning down and nibbling on his neck. John leaned
back on the couch, Marlena straddling his body. He pulled
Marlena’s shirt off and asked her to look at him. “Anytime you
want to stop…” Marlena in return kissed him passionately as John
rolled them over. His lips travelled down her body. Her face, her
body, her breasts. He watched her face as he entered her. They
found a good rhythm together and Marlena’s sweet moans filled
the room.
Three hours and four orgasms later, John & Marlena fell asleep in
each other’s arms.
Marlena woke up in a strange room. John’s bedroom, she figured
that much, but how she’d gotten there she didn’t remember. She
looked to her side – no John. She got out of bed and put his shirt
on, before she walked downstairs.
“Morning handsome.”
“Morning sexy.” John stood by the counter wearing only jeans and
no shirt. Marlena couldn’t help but to stare at the Greek God
standing in front of her. Do you want eggs? Bacon?”
“All of the above.”
“And some coffee?”
“Yes. You wore me out last night.”
“Feeling’s mutual. So…”
“About what I said. About this only being a one night stand…
Since we’re both so satisfied…”
“Very satisfied.”
“I don’t…” She walked towards him. “See… any reason why we
can’t keep this thing going.”
“Casual sex…”
“Where you know what you get.”
“I like it…”
“Good. Good!” He kissed her again.
“No strings…”
“None whatsoever…” He backed her against the bench as the kiss
continued.
“You’re captivating.” Marlena smiled at his sweet words.
“Thanks for noticing.” She teased back.
“Bacon is ready…” John turned towards the stove as Marlena
leaned against his back.
“Thank you,” she whispered in his ear.
“For what?”
“For making me feel alive again. I walked around for so long
feeling like a zombie, just breathing, but not really living. So thank
you.”
“Ditto. I haven’t cooked breakfast for anyone. Ever.”
“I feel so special. And it smells amazing.” He looked back towards
her and smiled as she kissed his neck. He just hoped he could
keep this casual. At least until she was ready to hear what he
already knew. That he was falling for her.
“Marlena! How are you dear?” Caroline Brady hugged her former
daughter in law.
“Hi Caroline, I’m good, how are you?” Despite the tension with
her ex-husband, Roman, Marlena loved the Brady’s and still
considered them her family, much to Roman’s dismay.
“I’m good dear. How’s that handsome husband of yours?”
“Ah, who knows. He moved out, or rather, I threw him out.
Cheating bastard.” Marlena straightened her jacket.
“I’m sorry dear.”
“Ah, don’t be.” She squeezed Caroline’s comforting hand.
“Where are you going? You look so… refreshed.”
“I have a lunch appointment with John.” Her face lit up as she
mentioned John’s name.
“A new friend?”
“I guess you can call him more of a business associate. But I have
to go. Give Shawn a hug for me, will you?” She gave Caroilne
another hug and a smile.
“I will dear. Have fun.”
“Oh, I will.”
“Hey gorgeous.” John stood up and greeted his lover with a
courteous kiss on the cheek.
“Hi handsome. Is that a gun in your pocket or are you just happy
to see me?” She kissed his left cheek and they sat down. He
leaned over the table and whispered.
“You know, you don’t need to flirt with me, you already got me
into bed and then some.”
“Who says I’m flirting with you? You need to stop being so self
centered there buddy.”
“You didn’t seem to be complaining last night while I was…”
Marlena put her hand over his mouth.
“Will you keep the dirtiness for the private moments please?”
“Can I take your order?” A sweet waitress in her late 30’s. A little
chubby redhead who’d been watching John & Marlena interact
since they started coming here.
“Large cheeseburger with dressing, fries of course and a extra
large strawberry milkshake. Thanks.” Marlena handed the waitress
her menu.
“Wow, three days in a row, how do you keep that figure?”
“Exercise.” “Great sex.” John and Marlena spoke at the same time
and Marlena continued by repeating, “Exercise.”
“I’ll have to try that exercise. And for you Mr Black?”
“I’ll have what she’s having, with a large coke instead. Thank you.”
“Thank you.” Marlena watched the redhead walk away as she
turned to John who continued to whisper.
“So, are we meeting tonight as planned? My place?”
“No.”
“Oh… Well, that’s… fine, we agreed to keep this casu…” Marlena
grinned… she was teasing him.
“I meant that we should meet at my place. I’ll fix dinner?”
“Thought you said you were a lousy cook.”
“Who said I’d be cooking? I thought we could do something new.
Sex on the living room floor, then chinese, then… maybe move up
to the bedroom? Sound good?”
“Sensational. I’ll bring the food though. You need to save energy
for a long night.”
“That’s what I’m counting on. I’m really glad I almost knocked you
over.”
“I know.” He just kept on looking at her. There was something
special about this woman.
“John! There you are. There’s someone I’d like you to meet. John
Black, this is Dr Marlena Evans, head of psychiatry at University
Hospital.”
“Dr Evans… Pleasure – ” He took her hand and they shared a
friendly shake.
“Mr Black. All mine. I’ve heard about your ideas to have your
business support our psychiatry…”
“Marlena…”
“Nathan.” A handsome man in his mid 30’s approached Marlena
with a seductive smile.
“You look unbelivable… That dress…”
“Thank you. If you don’t mind I was getting to know Mr …”
“Black…”
“I was getting to know Mr Black here, so I’ll have to catch up
with you later.”
“Who was that?”
“Nathan Barnes. We kinda had a thing.”
“Kinda?”
“There was dinner, a lot of alcohol and a bad one night stand.”
“So, it’s like my marriage then?” He’d learned to joke about it.
“Pretty much.” She contained a laugh. After all, they weren’t
supposed to know each other.
“Would you like another drink?”
“Yes, please. You know what I like.”
“Yes, I do. Which reminds me, I need to stop by the store. I’m
outta chips.” He took another sip of his whisky.
“Sex and chips, you are the perfect man.”
“Y… Oops, Berty Bert is on his way back. Pretend that you don’t
know me and agree to whatever I say.” John stood, turned to her
and basically muttered under his breath.
“We’ll see.” She turned and smiled widely. “Herbert! You’re back.
How are Mr & Mrs…” Herbert cut Marlena off.
“She’s smashed and he keeps looking at other women. Very
unhappy those two. The rumor is that he…” As Herbert talked
on, Marlena looked over at John. He gave her a gentle smile as
she tried to focus on what Herbert was saying.
“Excuse me Herbert. Marlena, would you like to dance?” He gave
a suggestive look.
“Sure. Herbert, will you excuse us?” John put his drink down and
reached for Marlena’s hand.
“Of course. You two kids go dance.” Herbert smiled, his lips
turning to a smile underneath all that moustache.
“Thank you.”
“You do look amazing tonight, baby.” John and Marlena stood
closely, just swaying back and forth as several people turned to
look.
“Thank you. I keep having to stop myself from tearing this suit
off of you. You look so hot.” John laced their fingers, as he
twirled her around to stand back to stomach.
“Why thank you. Dip?” He gently dipped her, but froze as a
booming voice came from across the room.
“John! Darling!”
“Oh no.” They both stood frozen.
“Why did you leave me at home?” Marlena stepped out of John’s
arms as he turned to look at the female that the voice belonged
to.
“Kate?”
“Kate, what are you doing here?”
“You’re an investor on this project. I’m your wife.”
“Yeah, I’m trying to change that.”
“You don’t mean that. Remember our wedding night?”
“We didn’t have a wedding night. We both passed out because we
were drunk. Just go.”
“I don’t have my apartment anymore.”
“What, people wouldn’t buy you, so you couldn’t pay rent? Why
don’t you ask one of your clients if one of them will house you?”
“I hear my husband is living alone. Have him. I don’t want him.”
“Or you could always go back to the corner you worked on
before. Marlena, shall we continue?”
“Please.”
“John, you can’t just shut me out. I’m your wife.”
“On paper. I’m single, and I’d like to dance with my new business
associate.”
“Let’s go John.”
“Gladly.”
John walked into his loft apartment and threw his jacket on the
floor. “Ahhhhh, I could just … kill that woman!”
“Calm down honey, don’t let her get to you. You’re not gonna kill
her. You want some chips?”
“No. Yes. With dip. I mean she just walks in there and demands…
Damn Mickey. Are there no good lawyers in this town? I need
someone who can win my case. I love Mick and all, but geez, how
many cases can one man lose before being forced into early
retirement or forced to do something else?”
“John!”
“I know. I’m sorry. I love Mick, you know I do. I’m just frustrated.”
“Why don’t I take you to bed and we’ll work off some calories and
some frustration?”
“No…”
“You sure about that?” She’d unzipped her dress and let it fall to
the floor.
“Or… yes… A thousand times yes.” John sent Marlena a big grin
as he chased her up the narrow stairs to his bedroom.
“I think this was a really good deal we made.” John & Marlena lay
side by side in his king-size bed, the black silk covers wet with
sweat. John kissed Marlena’s sweaty forehead. They butted heads
outside of the bedroom, but once they ended up in each others
arms it was like two people created to be together. Missing pieces
that fit together.
“Same here. Most successful relationship I’ve ever had.” Marlena
looked to her side as she spoke.
“So we have a relationship now?”
“I meant to say… partnership… I told Caroline you were my
business associate.”
“Which I kind of am. We work together, will work together… and
we both use the other for sex.”
“Sex and a companion.”
“It’s a lonely world out there. Thanks for giving me a new outlook
on it. The world looks brighter now that I have you in my life.”
“You’re such a cheese.” She pulled the covers up to her chin and
snuggled closer. “Can I stay the night?”
“You know you can.” Hazel met blue and he considered telling her
his latest discovery. John Black, ice man, guy with a heart of
stone who’d never had a relationship, was in love for the very
first time in his life.
“No, I can’t. I need new clothes. Would’ve been nice though.”
“You have clothes here.”
“Yeah, but they’re dirty. I can’t go to work in dirty clothes.”
“Okay, time to come with me. You think that just because I’m a
guy and use you for sex and companionship that I can’t do
laundry? Ha! Stereotype!” He took her hand and led her towards
the dressers.
“What did you do? You’re scaring me.” He stopped as they stood
in front of a white dresser.
“Ta-dahhh!”
“No! John!”
“Yes?”
“You gave me a drawer? Really?” Her eyes shone as she looked at
him.
“It’s just one.”
“You gave me a drawer. And you washed, you did laundry. Tell me
your favourite movie is ‘Gone With The Wind’ and you’re eligible
for sainthood.”
“Only for you.”
“Thank you so much. I mean it, thank you. No one has ever given
me a drawer before. A dresser, sure, but a drawer, no.”
“A dresser! I should’ve given you a dresser! Stupid!”
“No no no. See men have so much to learn about women. Buying a
dresser is impersonal. It’s kinda cold. Giving a woman a drawer is
personal, it means you’re letting that person into your life. You’re
sharing space. Know what I mean?”
“I think so. If you give a dresser you’re either moving in together
so you’re already close or you’re not willing to share your own
space. However, sharing a dresser is a sign of wanting someone in
your life permanently.” He put his emphasis on the world ‘sharing’.
“Exactly!”
“Man, you’re a smart cookie aren’t you?”
“Very.” She wrapped her arms around his neck and looked into
the piercing blue eyes she’d come to love. “Thank you for this.”
“You’re welcome cupcake.” He kissed her forehead. “Can you do
me a favor?”
“After the drawer, anything.”
“Can we play a game? Get to know each other more intimately?”
“More intimately than ten minutes ago?”
“I figured we’d get some ice cream and then get up close and
personal.”
“I’ll get the dishes, you get the rest.”
Propped up on pillows, ice cream in hand and sexy man by her
side, life was looking good for Marlena Evans. And it was about
to get a hell of a lot better. “Mmm, you have to be the perfect
man. Strawberry ice cream and chocolate fudge, and cherries.
Perfection.”
“Add you to the mix and it is. Now…” John pulled a small booklet
from his nightstand, “The questions…”
“You start.”
“Drum roll please! Okay, easy one first here. How many siblings
does your partner have?”
“2.”
“I thought you had just one, your twin sister.”
“Yeah, Samantha. And a little sister… I was 16 when she died. Her
name was Ava, she was … she…”
“You know you don’t have to talk about this if you don’t want to.”
“She was killed. Someone broke into our house, locked the door
to the nursery and set the house on fire. Daddy had to drag
Mama out of the house before it exploded. He still blames
himself. We all do. She was our new beginning. Mama and Daddy –
they separated, they both had other relationships, short ones, but
they got together again and Mama got pregnant and they were
happy. Happier than they’d ever been.” Her face had filled with
tears as she spoke, her voice was shaking and John grabbed her
hand as he kissed her forehead.
“Do you know who set the house on fire?”
“Yes. Now I do. Stefano DiMera and an accomplice. Before he
did world known crimes, Stefano was a simple intruder. An
intruder who killed my sister and ruined my parents’ lives. It
wasn’t the same after Ava died. I’m scared. I’ve never told anyone
this. Only Mama and Daddy know, and Sam … knew. That’s part
of why she was so rebellious. I became quiet, Sam acted out.”
“Thank you for telling me this. I’m so sorry.” A long pause
followed as John lay there looking at the woman beside him.
“What? Why are you staring at me?”
“You’re just amazing you know that? You’ve been through hell in
your life yet you’re this amazing, giving, caring, brilliant woman.”
“I haven’t told you about the time my sister in law was held in cage
over a tank of acid, while a guy pretending to be a magician, while
her husband had to stand there and watch as he thought she was
dying, but then it turned out she wasn’t really dead, or when the
guy who killed my sister kidnapped my children and I tried to
shoot him, and killed him but he also didn’t really die.” John
looked at her with a confused look. “Long story.”
“I feel closer to you already.” He drew Marlena’s body closer to
him as she kissed his chest. “Can I tell you something?”
“Oh god, is this where you tell me that my past is way too weird
for you and you…”
“I’m falling for you.”
Marlena continued to talk until her brain registered what he’d
said. “… break up with me because it’s just… You’re what?” She
drew back and sat up, pulling away from him as she quickly stood
up, pulling the sheet with her.
“I’m falling in love with you.”
“Wow, uh…”
“Look, I’m sorry, but I’ve wanted to tell you for so long, and …”
“I’m falling for you. Too, I’m falling for you too.”
“Scary. What do we do? We had this great thing going and now
there’s… pressure, and feelings…”
“Wow, you’ve really never had a real relationship before have you?”
“No.”
“You’ve never been in love?”
“No, never. Until this obnoxious, stubborn, incredibly sexy woman
crashed into me. Now I only have two drawers left in my dresser,
my bathroom is filled with chick products, I used Herbal Essences
with a peach scent this morning and I’m addicted to Gilmore
Girls.”
“Ha! That’s why you smelled so good!”
“Can we focus here?”
“Honey. What you just described, that’s a relationship.”
“That’s what I want. I want the bathroom occupied in the
morning so that I’ll have to shave in the kitchen. I want to have
to order dinner at 11 because our work schedules clash. And I
want to wake up to your beautiful face every morning. I can’t
seem to do without you.”
“Let’s do it.”
“Now I’m scared. Is that normal? You’re the relationship expert.”
He got out of bed and walked towards her.
“It’s very normal.” She kissed him, still shaking from hearing his
confession.
“Welcome home. How about we christen our bed?”
“I knew you were a smart man… “
“Victor, hi, how are you?” Victor kissed her cheek as they greeted each other.
“I’m wonderful, Marlena, thank you. A proud new grandfather to be always looks
happy.”
“Yes, Bo and Hope are expecting, I heard, that’s amazing!” She really was happy
for Bo and Hope, but there was also that zing of jealousy whenever someone was
expecting a child.
“How are you?”
“I see you know about me and Adrien.” It didn’t pain Marlena anymore that
people knew he’d cheated on her. But it did annoy her when people pitied her.
“What?”
“You did the head tilt.”
“Caroline informed me of your upcoming divorce. I’m sorry. Obviously the man
has lost his mind. You’ve never looked more beautiful.”
“I couldn’t agree more.”
“John! How nice to see you. Do you two know each other?”
“We’ve met.”
“Briefly.”
“Once.”
“Mr Black.” A sly grin formed on her face as she struggled to keep up the act as
they’d agreed before leaving home.
“Dr Evans.” He reached for her hand and left a short kiss on it.
“How’s business?”
“Good. How are the nutjobs?”
“Driving me insane.” John and Victor both giggled. “Kidding. They’re not nutjobs.
And it’s fine – thanks.”
“John – you’ve got something on your neck. Is that a hickey?” Victor put his
champagne glass down on the table to study the mark on John’s neck.
“Uh…”
“Is that from your uh, wife?” Victor dreaded the word. He’d met the woman who
claimed to be John’s wife and he already loathed her with every fiber of his being.
“No, actually. It’s not.”
“You’ve met someone! You’ll have to tell me about her then…”
“No, no, go on.”
“She’s amazing. Most amazing woman I’ve ever met.” He looked at Marlena as he
spoke.
“Well, I’m happy for you John. She’s a lucky woman.”
“Oh no, I’m the lucky one. She’s amazing.” He looked at Marlena again and saw
her sending him a glowing smile. She mouthed a silent ‘thank you’.
Four weeks later, people were still in the dark about the new item in town. The
gossip about who John’s new girlfriend was and who the mystery man was in
Marlena’s life left people questioning. You know what they say, add 2 and 2 and
you’ll most likely get 4.
“Honey, that’s the food, can you get the door for me?”
“Sure babe.” He kissed her quickly.
“Hey Chong! How are you today?” John picked several dollar bills off the counter
by the door as he grabbed their take out. Marlena’s eating habits took some
getting used to, but it was slowly getting into his rhythm.
“Good sir, how are you?”
“Excellent.”
“I bet. Thank you.” He noticed the 10 dollar tip and made a little bow. “Thank you
very much. Enjoy!”
“Oh, we will. Thanks Chong, thank your folks for me.”
“Nice guy that Chong.”
“Very. Mmmm, smells good. All of it.” Yes, all was going well at the new
Evans/Black household. Until their world came crashing down.
“Marlena! Marlena, come on, open the damn door!”
“Calm down, I’ll be right there! Jeez…” She found John on the other side of the
door.
“I need your help!”
“John, calm down. What’s wrong with you? People are trying to sleep in this
building. I was just packing up my stuff.”
“Kate. She’s dead. I killed her Marlena! I killed someone!”
“What? Why?”
“Why? I just told you I committed murder and you’re asking me ‘why?’. She just…
she went nuts, she did all these crazy things, she tried to … I didn’t mean to kill her
Marlena, I didn’t mean to do it. I just wanted to stop her!”
“Sit down, come here… Sit down on the couch.”
“Why aren’t you throwing me out? I just admitted that I killed someone!”
“Because I believe in you.”
“You believe me?”
“Of course. I know you, I know it was self-defense. Why don’t I order some food
and you can tell me all about it.”
“It’s 1 in the morning.”
“So?”
“You’re a one of a kind aren’t you?”
“You know it.”
“So I got to the docks and she was there. I overheard her talking to someone,
and I saw her hand this man some money. Anyway. She went to leave and… I… I
called out to her and then … Oh god. I killed someone Marlena. Murdered,
wacked, killed, took someone’s life!”
“John, you need to take a breather. Calm down dammit! Self defense, baby.
Now tell me… What the heck provoked you to murder, wack slash kill Kate?”
“She said she was going to kill you.” The bread got caught in her throat as she
looked to the man sitting in front of her.
“WHAT!?”
“What? Why?”
“Why? I just told you I commited murder and you’re asking me ‘why?’. She just…
she went nuts, she did all these crazy things, she tried to … I didn’t mean to kill her
Marlena, I didn’t mean to do it. I just wanted to stop her!”
“Sit down, come here… Sit down on the couch.”
“Why aren’t you throwing me out? I just admitted that I killed someone!”
“Because I belive in you.”
“You belive me?”
“Of course. I know you, I know it was self-defense. Why don’t I order some food
and you can tell me all about it.”
“It’s 1 in the morning.”
“So?”
“You’re a one of a kind aren’t you?”
“You know it.”
“So I got to the docks and she was there. I overheard her talking to someone,
and I saw her hand this man some money. Anyway. She went to leave and… I… I
called out to her and then … Oh god. I killed someone Marlena. Murdered,
wacked, killed, took someone’s life!”
“John, you need to take a breather. Calm down dammit! Self defense, baby.
Now tell me… What the heck provoked you to murder, wack slash kill Kate?”
“She said she was going to kill you.” The bread got caught in her throat as she
looked to the man sitting in front of her.
“WHAT!?”
“How do you feel honey?”
“Better, still shaky. Not really every day you find out your lover’s wife wants to kill
you.”
“I’m sorry I got us into this mess.”
“It’s okay… Just try not to kill people again.”
“What do I do now?”
“We’ll go down to the station and explain everything, it will be fine.”
“I’m just going to admit to murder?”
“You have to! It was self defense, you’ll go on trial and you’ll be aquitted. And not
to be grotesque, but ding dong the bitch is dead.”
“How can you joke about this…?”
“Why don’t we just go and get some sleep huh?”
“I just need to get some air… I’m gonna take a walk…”
“You want me to go with you?”
“No, thank you… I need to clear my head…”
“Ok…” She watched John walk towards the door. “Try not to kill anyone else while
you’re out there.”
“Haha… I won’t… I’m so glad the woman I’m sleeping with has humor… Gotta
remember that for the next one.”
“Hey! Go, the faster you leave, the faster you’ll be back… Hey, can you pick me
up some salt potato chips?” And with that he was gone.
She heard the door slam and walked downstairs…
“Hey babe, did you clear your head? Did you get my chips?” No answer… “Hello?
John?” He just sat on the couch, he didn’t move. “Earth to Black… Hello?”
“What?”
“Honey what’s going on?”
“I saw her…”
“Saw who?”
“Kate…”
“Kate’s dead…”
“No.. I saw her…”
“Like a vision? Honey, you I…”
“No, I saw *HER*… She was with some guy, a client probarly… She was laughing,
talking… She was real…”
“So.. You… didn’t kill her? Or you attacked someone else?”
“I went there, there was no body, no police marking either… I didn’t… Maybe I…”
“You imagined it?”
“Maybe… God, seeing her … It just brought chills… You know…? I really thought
she was dead…”
“Well, this is good… You’re not a murderer… If she files charges, you can just say
that she attacked you and you defended yourself… How are you doing?”
“I’m shaking… It was so real though, what could that mean?”
“Means you’re very protective… Of me…”
“Well, you’re the only hope I have of getting some these days, so…” She leaned in
and kissed him gently on the lips.
“Feel better?”
“Much… Not facing a murder trial takes a load off.”
“Let’s go to bed… Tomorrow’s a new day…” She walked towards the stairs… “Hey
John… I kinda like my life, so while I’m sleeping, try not to attack me or…”
“You little…” He took off after her as she ran up the narrow, swirly stairs of his loft
apartment… One potential crisis taken care of…
“Hey Deveraux.” Marlena leaned against the doorframe of the house where Jack
Deveraux lived with his wife Jennifer and his two children. After fighting like cat
and dog while Jack was covering the case of a patient of Marlena’s, the two of
them had bonded and became best friends. She had yet to introduce him to
John, but after Adrien’s betrayal, he had grown extra protective of her and
barked at any guy who even attempted to flirt with her.
“Evans. Any sane patients lately?”
“No, win any awards?”
“No.”
“Well, I’ll bring vodka and we’ll be miserable together. How’s the baby? I brought
you some old baby clothes, they’re in the car. I wanna see my little
goddaughter.”
“She’s sleeping, Jennifer’s with her right now.”
“I need to talk to you.”
“You want something to drink? Is this a rum and coke talk, or just coke?”
“Nothing thanks.”
“Holy crap, this is serious. Just for me then.”
She just sat there and looked at him for a few seconds, then she took a deep
breath and closed her eyes.
“I think I’m pregnant.” The words registered in Jack’s mind and he almost choked
on the chocolate in his mouth.
“WHAT?”
“I’m pregnant. Or, I think I’m pregnant, I probably am pregnant. Oh god, I’m
pregnant.”
“Bu-b-bu-bubu-bu but how?”
“Well, there was him and me and a couch or a chair, I’m not sure of the exact
object, but the process was the usual one.”
“Ew, Evans, I don’t need to know how you have sex.”
“Can you focus here?”
“Focus, focus. Do you know who the father is?”
“Yes… What am I – Kate Roberts? Of course I know who the father is. Good god.”
“Do I know him?”
“No.”
“You’re dating someone I don’t know? Ouch.”
“You know who he is, you just don’t know him.”
“Well obviously I don’t know him like you know him.”
“Jack…”
“Right, focus. Wow. Well, I, I guess you need to have a test done, do you want
me to call Dr Wesley?”
“No, I can’t have a pregnancy test done, and I can’t buy one.”
“Ah, so … you’re gonna … wait? And see?”
“How did you win so many awards? No, I’m not gonna wait and see. That’s why
I’m here…”
“You lost me.”
“See, I’m a known person in this town. People know me, and they all know – think –
I’m single. Thus starting a whole lotta rumors if someone sees me buying a
pregnancy test. Sooo…”
“Ah ha. You want me to do it?”
“Thank you, thank you, thank you…”
“I didn’t say I’ll do it… But I will – on one condition. Two actually. One – I need the
guy, the father, I assume he’s also your …”
“Lover.”
“Boyfriend. Two – this kid will be named after me.”
“Done.”
“Wow, that was easy. I didn’t think you’d go for number two.”
“Can we just get this done?”
“Right, pharmacy.” Jack grabbed his car keys and walked towards the door. He
turned around and looked at her before he left. She was worried, it was written all
over her face. He walked over to her and wrapped his arms around her in a hug.
“If it’s positive, it will be fine. You’ll be fine. And how lucky will that kid be that it’ll
have the most gorgeous mother on the planet AND the best uncle?”
“Don’t let your wife hear you.”
“She knows our connection is deeper than the most bottomless ocean.”
“Will you just go?” She couldn’t contain a smile and in her heart, she knew he was
right. He winked at her and then he was off.
__________
“Ok, you ready?” The bell had rang and Marlena closed her eyes as she walked
over to the bathroom sink. She took a deep breath as she cast her eyes
downward and looked at the stick. She registered the answer on the test and as
much as she had tried to prepare herself for whatever outcome, she let out a
sigh of relif as she turned to her best friend, worriedly pacing behind her.
“Well?”
“You’re gonna be an uncle.”
“John? Can you come down here please?”
“I’m busy here, kinda. Can you come up here?”
“I need to talk to you.”
“Well, come up here.”
“Honey, please, I don’t have time for this right now.”
“Get your ass up here.”
“What the hell is wrong with you?” She felt her blood boiling. *Damn hormones*
“John?” Not a word this time. She put her purse down and ran up the stairs,
preparing a few chosen words to lay on him. “You selfish…” She froze. “Prince…
How…” The room was filled with candles and roses, petals spread over the sheets
on the bed, leading the way to the bathroom.
“I came home early… Do you like it?”
“It’s…” She felt the tears starting to form in her eyes and felt his arms wrap
themselves around her body.
“I’m glad you like it so much.”
“It’s…. I’m sorry I called you a selfish … prince.”
“You okay babe? Champagne?”
“Yonnooo, thank you. I need to talk to you first.”
“I have to talk to you too, but can I talk first? Please?”
“Sure, go on. I can wait.” *I have 8 months to tell you for God’s sake.*
“When I met you, I was lonely. I had friends and a business, and employees, but I
was lonely. My little girl is grown up, and I didn’t have something in my life that
had purpose. Then I crashed into this angry, sassy, sexy blonde outside a crappy
coffee shop and all of that changed in a second. I knew already at the two
cosmos. We have an amazing sexual chemistry, but even more than that, we
have an incredible friendship. I didn’t know what it meant to love. I thought it was
buying the best gift or giving them everything they want, but in knowing you and
loving you, I’ve learned that love isen’t ‘never having to say I’m sorry’… Love is
knowing that you can be flawed, you can make mistakes, but that person who
loves you, will understand and will balance those flaws with their own. Love isen’t
being perfect, it’s not some fantasy romance, it’s hard work, it’s compromise and
it’s sacrifice. But if you’re in love, that sacrifice won’t matter because you gain
something that’s better. I don’t want to walk through my life thinking that I’m
above everyone else. Every woman I’ve been with has treated me like some kind
of a god, because I have money and because I’m famous. You are the exact
opposite of that. You call me on my crap and you expect things from me. You
put down a sex ban because I left the bathroom in a mess and even though it
frustrated me to no end, all it did was make me love you even more. Cause
that’s the flaw thing. You’re good at being organized, but you can’t cook to save
your life. I know how to cook, but I’m messy. And the point is … what are you
doing for the rest of your life? Because if you’re not doing anything, how about
doing it with me?” He opened the black velvet box to reveal a heart shaped cut
diamond ring, with two, small radiant cut diamonds on each side surrounding the
heart. “Will you conquer the world with me? Be the Cleopatra to my Antony?
Minus the poisen asp and the sword thing. Will you marry me?”
“I’m pregnant.”
Dead silence. Marlena had never heard a room that quiet before. She felt the
hurt in her heart and she gave him one last, tear stained smile before she rushed
out of the apartment. Didn’t know where she was going and she didn’t care. Left
in a daze, the words started to register in John’s mind and he sunk to the bed in a
mix of emotions.
“Evans?” Jack Deveraux wrapped the robe closer around himself as he blinking
one more time to make sure he was seeing clearly.
“I told him… I told him I was pregnant.”
“Well, what did he say? Did he say he doesn’t want it because I’m gonna kill that
SOB if he did. Tell me what he looks like and where it is, then prepare the funeral.”
“He didn’t say anything, that’s the problem. He just stood there, he didn’t even
move, I don’t even know if he was breathing like he should. Why the hell did I tell
him?”
“Because you’re pregnant and that’s wonderful. And if that stupid asshole doesn’t
see that, then to hell with him.”
“Thank you Jack! I knew this was the place I needed to go. You’re the best friend
a girl could have. Hug please?”
“I don’t wanna point out the fact that you slept with a loser or anything, but if he
doesn’t see that he just lost out on the only valuable thing in his life, then he can
go screw himself.”
“I’ve never heard you say screw before.”
“Well…”
“Don’t say it again. Ever. It just sucks, because it’s my fault really. He had just spent
like five minutes telling me how I gave him purpose and that I was the Cleopatra
to his Antony without the poison asp and sword and then he proposed. And what
do I do? I just say ‘I’m pregnant’ like we’re trying to compete who’s life sucked or
rules the most.”
“He asked you to marry him? Selfish son of a …”
“Jack?” The sound of Jennifer’s voice startled Jack. “Hey Marlena… What’s
wrong?”
“She’s pregnant.”
“Jack!”
“Oh no, Jen, that’s fine. I am though, I’m pregnant.”
“Oh my god! That’s amazing! Ahh, if it’s a girl, we’ll be in laws!”
“I know!” The two women hugged and jumped up and down with joy. Jack felt
the tears coming and hugged the both of.
“Ahh, if you weren’t carrying my niece or nephew, this would totally turn me on.”
“Shut up Jack.” As they all embraced, there was a knock on the door and Jack
left his two favourite women to open the door.
“John Black! What can I do for you? Run a newspaper, investigate a bad investor,
I have a resume handy if you need it.”
“I’m looking for Marlena… Is she here?”
“Ye… Are you the scum bag? In that case, she’s not here. Goodnight.”
“I’m assuming that, yes.”
“John?”
“Hey… Can we talk for a minute, please?”
“Sure…”
“We’re outside, it’s cold, be quick please?”
“Look, I just needed to tell you that I’m sorry okay? When you told me you were
pregnant… I didn’t know what to do or what to say… What do you say in a
situation like that?”
“Well, an audible sound would be good enough. John, you didn’t say anything. I
told you I’m pregant and you didn’t even take a deep breath, you just stood
there!”
“I know, and I’m sorry! And I’m sorry it took me this long, but I had to go do
something before I went to find you.”
“Look, do you wanna break up? Take back what you said? It’s fine, because I
didn’t expect that something this good could last forever anyway.”
“No, I don’t wanna break up. Look, I went to my office to get *this*. My
grandfather gave those to me before he died. My grandmother made them for
my mother.” She looked at him as he held up two green baby socks, one in each
hand. “I put them in a box in a closet because I never had, you know, hope, that
I’d ever have babies… I’m not daddy material, I don’t know anything about
babies. I know kids, but not babies. Nada, zip, none. I don’t even know how to
change a diaper. So you’re gonna have to teach me that too. That whole
balanced flaws thing again you know? But please, don’t ever doubt that I want
this. I was just in shock and I didn’t expect it and I felt numb. A good numb, not a
bad numb.”
“Shut up.” And with that, she kissed him. For the first time as the mother of his child.
“Will you two get back in hair, it’s starting to rain.” Jack appeared in the kitchen
doorway and true enough, it began to pour down only seconds after.
John and Marlena came giggling into the Deveraux living room again, noticing
that Jack and Jennifer had been joined by Jack Jr. JJ immidiatly ran to his Aunt
and she picked him up.”Okay Jack… You wanted an introduction… Jack, this is
John Black, my … fiance. John, this is Jack Deveraux.”
“Her best friend.”
“And the future uncle of your son or daughter, just so you know. That’s Jennifer
and this little guy is JJ, Jack Evan Junior.” John first shoot Jennifer’s hand before
he turned to JJ and shook his little hand as well. “JJ is your future son in law by the
way, if we have a daughter.”
“Well, that’s good to know.” He leaned towards Marlena and whispered. “Is that a
yes to my proposal?”
“Hell yeah.”
“Apple juice for the mother to be, beer for the father to be… Jennifer, your soda
and for the uncle to be… milk. I need my calcium.” Jack raised his glass.
“Here is to marriage, best friends … and most importantly to love. And to my new
niece or nephew. May he or she inherit his father’s business sense and his mother’s
good looks and ability to make everyone feel like they’re the most important
person in the world.”
“Like you need help with that…” Jennifer couldn’t contain the impulsive giggle.
“Kidding. Thank you Deveraux.”
“To love!”
“And babies.” Jack, Jennifer and his fiance clinked glasses while John couldn’t
help but stare at the woman beside him. After a minute, she snapped her fingers
to pull him out of his daze.
“What’s up with you?”
“I just… didn’t know a rich kid from my kind of screwed up family could feel this
kind of true happiness.”
“Ok Casanova. You should get this girl home. She’s looking tired and you know
what I said about hurting her. You and me pal. I may look soft but I’m used to
dealing with punks who hit on my girls. Just ask black eyed guy number 7.”
“I like my eyes baby blue thanks…”
“We do need to go home though. I’m wiped. Emotional day. Pregnancy test,
baby on the way, proposal, celebration. Thank you Mr D, my wall of strenght.
Good job Jennifer. With the size of that ego, I don’t know how you even find
room to life in this house.”
“It’s a small bedroom, belive me.” Jack and Jennifer followed John and Marlena
to the door and said their goodbyes.
John & Marlena walked through the doors of his loft apartment, Marlena
immidiatly kicked off her shoes and threw her jacket to the stool by the kitchen. “I
have to say Doc, I didn’t know your best friend would ve such a …” He struggled
to find the word.
“I know. But he’s Jack and beneath that seemingly arrogant attitude and self
centered wit, there’s an amazing guy who loves his family and his friend more
than anything. His past is pretty complicated and he doesn’t trust people very
easily. So he loves the people around even more because of it. He’s a strange
one but he’s my bud. We kinda found each other when we both needed a friend
and he turned to be an amazing guy. He’s going to be a godfather to this kid just
so you know.”
“I’m cool with that. Now… let’s see about getting you to bed Mrs Black-to-be.”
“Yeah, I kinda have to talk to you about that. I’m not changing my name.”
“What? It’s tradition.”
“Yeah, no. I’m an independant person and I just don’t wanna change my name.
It’s part of my identity. I don’t mind people who do it, it’s their choice, but I don’t
want to. Being Dr Evans is a huge part of me, and I don’t want to be someone
else.”
“Honey… taking your spouse’s name is tradition, people do it every day.”
“Are you gonna change yours?”
“To what?”
“Evans… I’m your spouse, and it’s tradition.”
“Is this the hormone thing?”
“Oh honey, you ain’t seen nothing yet. Just give me this and I’ll let you call me
Mrs Black on our wedding day and night. Okay? Now would you make me some
popcorn?”
“I’ll up you one. How does a platter filled with ice cream, strawberries, chocolate,
popcorn, pancakes… and whatever else is in the fridge?”
The pitch in Marlena’s voice hit a new high as she said in a jokish manner. “Johnny,
you’re so dreamy. I wanna marry you and have your baby… Oops, taken care
of. But you are dreamy. Now go, baby’s hungry.”
“This is going to be the best and the worst seven months of my life.” He kissed the
tip of her nose before he walsed into the kitchen.
“Oh god baby, this is so good. Baby’s loving this. You know what the baby would
like though? Some sprinkles…”
“You can’t use our child as a bargening chip. We’re out of sprinkles though, sorry.
Can I lie down?”
“There’s always room for your hot ass on my couch, love.” John placed himself
beside his fiance and immidiatly leaned down to level himself with Marlena’s
tummy.
“You know kid, you’re only 2 and a half months grown but I already love you so
much. And I love your mommy here. She’s beautiful you know. So I hope you
inherit her looks. And her humor. And her intelligence. And that smile. And
between you and me, I hope you have a heart as big as hers because that will
guide you through life. You know, your mommy and I didn’t have the ideal first
meeting, but the second I saw her, I fell in love with her. She was feisty and
arrogant and if you’re a boy and straght, you’ll understand what it means in 15 or
16 years, unbelivably sexy.”
“You can’t say that to our child!”
“And that’s why mommy will drive you insane. She objects to anything she
doesn’t completely agree with. Squirt, you’re gonna be the most loved little boy
or girl in the whole world. And don’t tell mommy this, but the reason I didn’t say
anything when she told me she was pregnant was that I was speechless. And
because I was imagining you in my mind. You’re lucky kid, because you’re being
born to the best mother in the world and you’ll be raised in a loving home. There’s
no one who’s loved anyone as much as I love your mommy. Promise. And even if
we fight, it’s not because we don’t love each other, it’s because sometimes… we
drive each other nuts and we can’t stand each other. But the love doesn’t go
away. I hope you get to experience this kind of love. But you’re lucky kid.” John
realized Marlena haden’t moved and looked up at her, seeing the tears falling
down her cheeks.
She gave him a warm smile before she whispered. “This is gonna work.” She stroked
his hair as he again, placed his head against her tummy as if to listen to signs of
life inside.
“I’m back!”
“Did they have it?”
“Come and get it.”
“I knew there was a reason to marry you… Oh, it smells like heaven on a stick… Or with sticks. Hallelujah!”
“Happy to please. Kiss.” He pointed to his cheek and Marlena gently kissed him before she grabbed the boxes of chinese food and rushed over to the couch. “Marlena…?” Nothing. Just sounds of ‘mmf’ and ’emmfff’ as Marlena dug into the boxes. “I know I’m just a fashion business icon guy and you’re our fashionista here, but is that top maybe a little revealing? I’m just … ya know, I know your *assets*, but I don’t love other people loving them… You’re pregnant… might be time to tuck those puppies away…”
“Are you going to start wearing training pants and button your shirt all the way up to your chin? I didn’t think so. In a few months I’m going to be a frickin’ whale and you’re gonna wonder what the hell you ever saw in me. This is self-protection. A reminder that one day, you can have this again… That way, you’ll never leave me.”
“Awfully confident aren’t we?”
“With good reason. You just went out to buy me fourteen different types of chinese food right before an awards ceremony that’s going to be watched by every one of your peers. You love me Snoopy.”
“You’re gonna look gorgeous by the way. 30 extra pounds, craving ice cream with pickles and carrots, reading every trashy magazine around and you’re going to be the most beautiful woman in the world because that’s who you are to me.”
“Aww, you can’t say stuff like that…” She pressed her lips together to stop the tears from falling. “Hormones.”
“Beautiful. Can we go, we’re gonna be late…”
“Can’t I finish my food?”
“They’ll have chicken. Fried. Gross, fried, fat-filled chicken…”
“Oh yum, let’s go. Ya know, I don’t know why I’m having so many cravings this time. I didn’t have that any of the other pregnancies. Ohohoh, chicken… with mayo and mustard. Yum.”
“Get your coat woman!”
“Bossy… I like it.” And with that, chinese food was forgotten, chicken was in her sight and they were out the door.
“John! How nice to see you.” A handsome man in his mid 30s approached them as Marlena was munching on her long awaited chicken with a mustard/mayo combination. “And this would be the latest flavor of the month. The glow’s a dead give away.”
“It’s my flavor, but not just of the month Rick. This is my fiance, Dr Marlena Evans.”
“Surgeon?”
“Psychiatry.”
“Sexy.”
“Remind me of that when I’m up in my arms of patients who are ready to commit suicide when they’re out of cereal.”
“Good choice my man…”
“Permanent choice Rick.” As Marlena turned to fetch another bite of the chicken, the top revealed a slight bump and Rick grinned.
“I see… Congratulations to the parents to be.”
“Thank you. You weren’t supposed to tell anyone John.”
“I didn’t.”
“The glow, the bump. Everything else was fit and flat. Congratulations. John, you secured the heir and you got good genes for it. Now how about working with me?”
“Actually, I’m taking some time off. Time with the growing family…”
“You know Marlena… I’m in the bridal business, I own a salon… Convince your husband here and I’ll give you the wedding of your dreams once the little one’s arrived. We have an exellent program for new mothers to get in shape after th…”
“Actually, we’re getting married soon. Caribbean.”
“Going Garner and Affleck on me… Well, congratulations to, both you, and please, feel free to pop in anyway. We have some amazing stuff that would fit you to a T.” He handed Marlena a business card as he winked and left.
“Caribbean huh?”
“Just popped into my head.” John shrugged as he attempted to pass it off as a quickie idea.
“Sure… Fess up.”
“I was gonna surprise you.”
“We’re not going to Faroutland in Can’t-Even-Pronounce-It?”
“Nope. We’re gonna fly into a secluded island, I can’t even remember the name of it, and we’re gonna get a judge, bring Jack and Jennifer, and Abby and junior of course. About a week later, the kids along with Bo and Hope, Alice, Shane and Kimberly, Maggie and Mickey… They’re all gonna fly out to be present at our wedding. It was supposed to be a surprise. I had to bribe Jack into not blabbing with promising that they could cover the story. Apparantly, we’re the wedding of the year here in town.”
“Damn hormones.”
“You happy?”
“Tissue?” He grabbed a napkin off the table as he hugged her from the side. “Thank you… Wow… Wedding… Love you. And thank you for the chicken.” He kissed her forehead and she grabbed a fork to feed him a bite.
He was happy.
“Hey baby, how’s the ice cream?”
“It’s so good I might ditch you and marry the distributor.”
“Good for you. Hey, can I ask you a question? Are we far enough in our relationship to talk about past … acquaintances.”
“I’d be less creeped out if you called them lovers, but sure. What do you wanna know?”
“How many?”
“Um… I don’t know exactly. My first was… college. And that lasted about a year. Then, a two one nighters. So… three, then Don, Roman, Adrien, plus… So… about ten. Wow, I’m a slut.”
“That’s not much.”
“What about you?”
“There have been a lot of women, but none very memorable until this sassy blonde bumped into me and accused me of ruining her shirt.”
“Aww, you’re such a charmer.”
“Charmed the pants off you, my dear.”
“Yeah, the weight gain and clothes not fitting kinda speaks for itself.”
“Hey, have you been able to hide it still?”
“Yeah, but it’s getting harder. Jack almost blew it once, poor thing, he sees a job opportunity and he starts running his mouth quicker than I can say ‘shut up’. I’m gonna tell them soon. Back to our subject. We’re both mature adults. What’s the biggest age difference?”
“15. She 28, I was 43. What about you?”
“16. I was forty-one, he was 25. I win.”
“He wins. How did you meet?”
“He was a the grandson of one of Shawn’s cousins. He’d grown up in London, so he had the sexy british accent and we went dancing one night. It kinda just… happened.”
“Does Shawn and Caroline know?”
“Oh god no. No one knows. Besides you.”
“Ever had a threesome?”
“Yes. I was really, really depressed and I went on a trip to New York, conference, things just happened. What about you? The playboy has to have had one.”
“Actually no.”
“You’re making me feel really slutty. Sitting here, pregnant after just a few months, threesomes, one nighters. Let’s face it. You’re marrying the slut of Salem.”
“Honey, I was married to the slut of Salem. Now I’m marrying the most beautiful. Esp when you’re having cravings. I have to tell you. I didn’t think it was possible to be this happy. I’m growing up. Leaving the bad boy playboy image behind and becoming a stand up guy with a station wagon, pedigree dog and trophy wife.”
“Dream on.”
“I’ll go get you some more sprinkles.”
“Bless your good soul little man.”
“Hey, uh, Doc, I was thinking… What we just…”
“I’m not having a threesome with you. Get some rainbow ones, and the pieces-ish strawberry ones. Not the really squished ones, but the ones that are really deliciously reddish pinkish.”
“Does the ‘ending everything with an ish’ thing go away after the pregnancy?”
“Just go tend to my needs lover boy.”
“Are you nervous?”
“No. My mouth is numb, my hands are shaking, and I’m trying to think of the fastest way to Canada, but nervous? No way. They don’t even know about us, or you, they’re gonna fall over with this news.”
“Get it over with.”
“One. Two. Three.” John held the door open for his wife to be and followed her as she entered to a packed Brady Pub. Marlena had asked almost everyone she knew well in town, and besides Jack and Jennifer, only Caroline knew Marlena even associated with John.
“Hey everyone. Thanks for coming. Mysterious invitation huh? Don’t worry, I’m not gonna keep you long. First, I want you to meet someone very special to me, someone whom you don’t know personally, but that I hope you will accept into our very extended family. My ball and chain, John.” John lifted his hand for a little wave as the buzzing in the Brady Pub began. “Next. John is not just someone I’m dating, he will soon be an official part of this family. He’s asked me to marry him and since I felt every other wedding just wasen’t enough…” Marlena laughed… “I said yes. We’re getting married. I hope you can all be there for it.” She watched as the group became quiet again. “Well, I guess that’s about it. Shall we?” John reached out for her hand as they walked towards the door. “Oh… and I’m pregnant. Have a great day. Don’t drink too much punch.”
As they stood outside, Marlena couldn’t stop giggling. “Did you see that? That was so much fun, we gotta do that again.”
“Wait until you tell them they’re all going to the caribbean for our wedding. That will be fun!”
“Couple more seconds. Five. Four. Three. Tw…”
“WHAT? Marlena, get in here!” Bo’s voice made John jump.
“Early this time.”
Bo walked back and forth while the rest of the family had sat down, all of them staring at Marlena.
“Wow… I think I just heard a pin drop.”
“You… you’re… You… You’re pregnant? And getting married? How far along are you?”
“Five, almost six months.”
“You… You’re having a baby in three months? And none of us knew?”
“Well, Jack knew.”
“You told Jack and you didn’t tell me?”
“I didn’t wanna tell anyone until I knew the baby was fine. I’m not 25 anymore Bo. This is a risky pregnancy. Then I was just terried that you’d react the way you’re reacting. Which makes me right, which makes me happy. Can I have some cake? The baby’s hungry. Just tell me something. Are you happy for me?”
“Of course we’re happy for you lass.” Shawn spoke.
“Good. I’m happy too. This is a really good thing that’s happening here, with an amazing man, and I hope that all you protective men will ease up and get to know him. He plays a mean game of darts. I mean, he can’t beat me, but that’s because I jump up behind him and annoy him until he misses. There was one thing I forgot though… the wedding… We decided to go untraditional on you and we’re going to a Caribbean island instead. We’re hoping you’ll all join us.”
John leaned against the bar as he watched Abe, Hope, Bo and Sami all squeeze Marlena in a hug and he smiled at the thought of joining a real family.
“So, you would be John, then?”
“Yes, Mrs Horton, I am.”
“Oh, call me Alice. I want you to know something John. The woman you’re marrying doesn’t just belong to a family of love, she belongs to a family of cops. If you hurt her, or as much as upset her, there is not a safe place for you in town, or out of town. Marlena kept the Brady and Horton families together when they were falling apart, she may not be related by blood, but she is a part of us.”
“This family of yours like to threaten people.”
“Not just any ‘people’. Marlena has been happier the past eight months than I’ve seen her since she came to town and for that, after what Adrian and Roman did to her, I’m grateful. Keep her happy.”
“I plan to.”
“Deveraux! You are not gonna belive the gorgeous dress I just saw.” Marlena walked into the Deveraux home and threw her purse on the couch.
“Sure… your highness.” Jack gestured towards her.
“Wh…? Oh… Haha, yeah, some kids were handing them out at the mall.”
“Some kids were handing out tiaras at the mall… Mar, did you sleepwalk into the jewlery store again? Didn’t I tell John to restrain you? He has fun, the jewler gets to keep his goods.”
“Ha. Ha. Ha. It’s plastic. To promote some princess day or something. I was in bride-mode, degree serious.”
“Plastic. Really? It’s very real looking. Maybe I should invest.”
“Jack, did you change jobs again? Babe, you gotta tell me when you do that. How can I take advantage of your position if I don’t know what you do?”
“Such a charmer. Did you swallow a whole whale today?”
“Low blow!”
“Honey, you look amazing. Glowing like a 70s disco ball.”
“Just had a facial.”
“Just take the compliment Willy. Hah, get it? Willy. Whale. Little pregnant humor for you.”
“It’s not funny. I know I look huge, I just don’t wanna be reminded. John thinks I look fat too. I mean, he says he doesn’t, but he does. He sees me just growing bigger every day.”
“Ever think that maybe he actually doesn’t think you’re huge? Mar, the guy loves ya. He didn’t even flinch when I threatened him, he’s solid. And you’re having his baby. He’s freaking planning a Caribbean wedding for you woman!”
“I know. I’m just nervous. I only have a couple of days left until my due date, and I’m reminded of how much I really loathe labor. The before and after stuff is amazing, but the stuff you have to go through to get to the after… Labor sucks. I hate pain. And you don’t know what pain is until you’ve spent 20 hours in labor.”
“I’m pretty sure I have a go…”
“If you value your life, do not go there. You have no clue. The pushing and the screaming and the squeezing a kid out of your body. You should know, you were there when Abby was born.”
“Beautiful moment. All of it.”
“I’m betting Jenn doesn’t agree on every account. That said… will you be there?”
“At the hospital? You want me there with you?”
“Well, you know, you’ve helped me through a lot of pain the past few years, figured I’d let you help with the worst pain too. It’s only fair.”
“I… I’d be honored.”
“Jack, are you crying? Jennifer puts tissues in the drawers by the sink. Dry up, we have a couple more days to go.” Jack kissed her forehead before heading towards the kitchen.
“Or maybe not.” Marlena mumbled.
“What?”
“My water just broke. Call John, call Sami, Caroline, Shawn and Alice, tell them we’re going to the… freaking bloody bastard hell, ow! Make it stop, Jack, make the pain stop.” She grabbed the collar of his shirt and pulled him to her level. “Make the pain stop, please. I will name the baby after you, I’ll buy you a newspaper or a building or a person, just make it stop!”
“I’m gonna call John okay, Squeaky?”
“Hurry! Tell him his kid is impatient and his girlfriend is thisclose to hunting him down!” As Jack rushed to the phone, Marlena leaned back in the couch and took deep breaths before being hurried out the door and into the car as Jack repeatedly counted to ten on the way to the hospital.
“Breathe honey, come on! It won’t stay in just because you hold your breath. Slow and steady, John is gonna be here any minute and if he’s not, I will strangle him myself before I let you take a swing at him.” Jack held the tears back as Marlena squeezed his hand red.
“Aww, you’re a good friend Jack… Your niece or nephew is incredibly lucky. Wish I had a funny Uncle Jack when I was a kid.”
“Any gut feeling yet? Boy or girl? Niece or nephew”
“No. But Sami wants a sister, John wants a mini-me, Caroline wants it healthy and I’d prefer it just pop out already and let us know what it is.”
“Marlena! Thank god. Are you busy?”
“Oh thank Romeo you’re here…”
‘”That is not funny, John. I am in pain. Severe pain. ‘Kick you in the balls while tweazing your eyebrows and chest hair while doing a root canal without drugs and falling crashing to your death’ pain.”
“I’m sorry baby. Are you okay? Is there anything I can get you? Water, ice chips, pillow?”
“Jack’s taken care of the chips and the pillow. Come here though…” He leaned in closer. “There is one thing I want.”
“A hug?”
“I. WANT. DRUGS!”
“You don’t have drugs in your system? Wow… that’s heroic.”
“No! And I want the frickin’ epidural that was supposed to be given to me an hour ago! You own the town, can’t you buy that for me? I haven’t asked you for anything, just get me drugs? Please, please, please!”
“How far dialated are you?”
“Almost all there.”
“This is insane! Baby, what if I sue the hospital for you? Will that help?” He kissed her perspirated forehead. “I love you baby…”
“A little…”
A scrub wearing nurse entered the room. “Dr Evans, we’re ready to take you in now. Mr Melinda.”
“Melinda?”
“Personal joke.”
“I’m just gonna go get scrubbed okay, and I will be back and we’ll do this thing.” He leaned down and kissed Marlena one more time. “You’re the bravest and strongest person I know, do you know that? Let’s have a baby.”
“John, Marlena… I’m Dr Finhagen, you can call me Eric since we’re about to get to know each other pretty intimately. I am a huge fan of your work Dr Evans, so it’s a privelige to deliver this baby. Everything looks perfect. Won’t be long now, are you ready to be a daddy John?”
“Ready as I’ll ever be.”
“Marlena, you’ve done this before, just remember to relax when I say so because you’re gonna need it.”
“Tell me that nurse was fired.”
“Needless to say Mr Black, Nurse Fitzgerald is no longer an employee of University Hospital. And you would be?”
“Jack Deveraux. I’m her best friend. Marlena asked me to be here so if you try to kick me out I dare you take it up with the hormonal pregnant lady in painful labor sans drugs.”
“Just stay focused mr Deveraux. Okay, looks like Marlena’s ready to push. John, why don’t you support her head, make sure she’s comfortable, remind her to breathe and then keep your head off the floor. Too many fainting expectant fathers in here. It’s true what they say, women do handle pain better. Marlena, I’m gonna count to five and you’re gonna push as hard as you possibly can. One. Two. Three. Four. Five and push…!”
“Push, come on baby.”
“Marlena, push! Come on, as hard as you can.”
“You’re doing so good baby, you’re so good! Little more!”
“Push!”
“Come on Marlena, push!”
Marlena felt her eyes getting blurry and the words began to melt together as time went by slowly while she continued to push with all her strenght.
Marlena slowly opened her eyes and looked around the room. By the window she saw her fiance, face down, cradling a bundle. “JB?”
“Hey baby. How are you feeling?”
“Sore. Tired… Happy. Can I see?”
“I knew you’d ask. Scoot over.” John sat down on Marlena’s hospital bed as Marlena sat up slowly, moving to her left. “Little one. Let me formally introduce you to your mommy. Mommy, this is little one.”
“We can’t keep saying little one. Thank god we painted the nursery that adorable green.”
“Have you ever seen something to tiny and so perfect? So innocent. Not messed up or let down by the world yet. I gotta say, we make one heck of a kid together.”
“Knock knock, can I come in?”
“Jack, please… Sit down.”
“Aww, look at that itty bitty little bitty thing.” He leaned over Marlena as he reached a finger out and let the baby feel his touch. “Hi kid, I’m your uncle Jack. I make sarcastic comments and should not be mistaken as the annoying uncle. Because that would be uncle Bo.”
“Jack, let me introduce you to your godchild.”
“Let me prepare. Okay, bring it on.”
“Ready? Jack Deveraux… meet… Ariana. Jack. Evans. Black.”
“Ariana Jack?”
“I refuse to call her Jaqueline. And no one cares about name details these days.”
“Well there you go. Ariana Jack, it’s nice to meet you. I’m Uncle Jack, your favourite uncle. You’ll see.” Marlena watched as Jack cooed to the baby and made funny faces, John leaned over and kissed the side of her head as they smiled. Life was good.
“Jack! Welcome back! How was London?”
“Great, just fantabulous. Where’s she-Jack?”
“She’s waiting for her uncle he-Jack in her crib which is where she does 70% of her daily routine.” She watched as Jack rushed towards to the baby’s crib and picked up her daughter.
“Hi little baby. How are you baby girl… Oh, look at your cute little nose and those beautiful eyes. Your mommy’s nose and your daddy’s eyes. The other babies at the day care center won’t know what hit them when you crawl in there in a few months and sweep the attention of all the baby day care workers.”
“Hon, the whole she-Jack, he-Jack thing is messing me up. By the way, did you forget someone? Blonde, long hair, stuck by you when you were annoying and self-obsorbed, people at the store call her Mrs Deveraux… Where’s Jennifer?”
“Stopped by the video store to pick up some sappy comedies. Just like uncle Jack ordered. Has she teething yet?”
“Jack, she’s 8 weeks. At least a month left until we start that debacle.”
“8 weeks, that means you…”
“Yep, finally.”
“So that’s how you lost all the pregnancy weight.”
“You try living with a baby in a loft like this, where the bedroom is upstairs and the bathroom is downstairs. I’ve walked more up and down stairs in the past eight weeks than I have in my entire life, it feels like it anyway.”
“You look fantastic. All the… uhm… stair walking obviously helps.”
“You really want me to say it? Fine. John and I are going at it like rabbits. Okay? Who knew 6 weeks would be so hard to get through? When you’re all hormonal and … horny.”
“Who’s what?”
“Hey Jenn. You’re here, that means that I should get going, John’s waiting outside the cinema. Thanks you guys, we needed this. A movie, making out without phones ringing or people stopping by to see the baby. Something is seriously wrong when adults fuss more than the baby does.”
“She still quiet?”
“Sleeps through the night, barely any fussing and she’s happy and healthy. We have created the perfect child… And um, Jack… can you call her AJ instead of she-Jack? It’s like asking for your child to need therapy by the time she’s 5 you know. And John told me to tell you that he’d kick your ass if you didn’t.”
“You called her she-Jack again?” Jennifer slapped her husband on the arm, quick and hard.
“I’m outta here. I need another nuzzle.” She took Ariana from Jack’s arms and held her close to her body, smelling the scent of her baby daughter, kissing the remarkable amount of hair on her head and nuzzling her nose before feeling the tears pressing. “Oh no. Take her. I need to just go. Bye baby, mama loves you. You take care of uncle Jack and aunt Jenn for me, don’t let them break any couches or beds or anything.” Marlena grabbed her keys from the counter and blew a kiss before closing the door.
“I asked you one thing before I left for the store.”
“What? Her name IS Jack. I didn’t name her. Those two rabbits did.”
“You’re nuts.” She leaned in a kissed him before she kissed Ariana’s tiny foot. “Your uncle is nuts. He’s cute, but he’s nuts. And auntie Jenn is still nuts about him.”
“Baby ok?” She kissed him as she stepped out of the rain and under the roof of the building.
“Yep, you got the tickets?”
“Yep… Snakes On A Plane… It’s gross, it’s exciting, it’s Samuel L. Jackson.”
“I told you to get tickets for the Break Up!”
“You were serious about that? I thought you were just pissed because I re-arranged the living room. Again.”
“I’m not going to see Snakes On A Plane on our first night out alone in 6 months.” She sat down on the small bench behind her.
“Then what do you wanna do?”
“Make out in the car?” She winked at him as she got up and grabbed his hand, leading him towards the parking lot.
“Lead the way Dr Evans.”
The Jarlena Journal 