Prologue- Modus Operandi
In every election, there’s one rule..play to win. Whether it be down and dirty, or clean and respectable, there’s one mind set to any politician, and they will go to any lengths to reach the office they so desire, and the power they desperately crave.
That’s the case for Roman Brady, the only problem is, his dreams are threatened by his one weakness..womanizing. Calling in a few favors, the slick candidate gets a little help from the Prez, and his right hand man, John Black. Assigned to keep the Congressman’s wife from spilling the beans on her husband’s infidelity, Black goes above and beyond, falling for the hurt, heartbroken doctor. When one scandals remedy turns into the biggest obstacle of them all, it’s do or die time to get elected, even if it means pulling out *all* the stops.
Chapter 1- Sex, Lies, & Politics
“And in local news, Congressman Roman Brady of Salem has announced his plans to run for the Illinois State Senate. A popular politician from his district, Brady will have a tough battle to Capitol Hill. His opponent, is the well respected incumbent, Craig Wesley. The pollsters are already predicting this will be a squeaker, but scandals involving the Congressman could add some fuel to the fire in the up…”
“Turn that crap off!” Roman Brady demanded, as he walked angrily into his headquarters, and slammed the latest edition of the Tribune down for his team to view.
“‘Congressman declares war, but infidelity trump card in Opponents pockets’. Where the *hell* are my PR people before this sh*t hits the newsstand? I pay you to make me look good, not to have my faults gracing the cover of a nationally ranked paper!”
“Dammit Roman! We just started this campaign three days ago! There wasn’t anytime to prepare for this because we didn’t think they’d have it this early in the game!”
Abe Carver, Committee chairman fired back at his boss, as he flipped through his own files, desperately searching for something to get this race in the bag for his candidate.
“Well that’s your problem, you don’t *think*! Like all power hungry politicians, you think about the checks your gonna be able to cash *if* I get into office, and you overlook the small details that could *prevent* my victory.”
“Well Chief,” Abe sneered, “This might be a little *easier* if you could keep your pants on from now until November?”
“The only thing I will be keeping on from now until then is my cool, calm, and collected demeanor. Everything else will be handled with great security, and proper precautions, understand?”
“You do realize the press is now *waiting* for you to slip?” Abe reminded his arrogant employer.
“I know, which is why I am gonna pull out *my* ace in the hole.” He replied snidely, and with assurance.
“And what might that be?”
“Call up my ol’ pal, the Commander in chief.” Roman smirked.
“The SOB owes me for backing him against partisan lines, and if I’ve learned anything, it’s that paybacks a bitch. Tell him I want his right hand man to come down her and strategically couch my wife in denying these allegations. We’ve gotta play salesman to the people investing in our product. The American public won’t settle for anything less than a wholesome 100% guaranteed piece of Americana, and that’s *exactly* what we’re gonna give em, capisce?”
“Even if it means sleeping with the enemy?” Abe reminded.
“Why not, I sleep with everyone else, right?” Roman winked, as he buttoned his suit, and headed towards the door. “Abraham, one of the most important rules in politics is keeping your enemies in front of you, so if that’s what it takes to get elected, than so be it.”
“What’s going on in here?” Marlena asked curiously, as she entered the threshold.
“Hey Honey,” Roman smiled, as he walked over to kiss his wife, only to have her pull away coldly.
“Shouldn’t you be saving that for your flavor of the week?” She questioned sarcastically, getting a chuckle out of Abe.
“Oh lighten up, baby.” Roman grinned devilishly, “You can hate me all you want, but the truth is, in a few short weeks, I’m gonna change you from bitter, betrayed wife, to America’s sweetheart.”
Chapter 2 “Whatever It Takes”
“Forget it, Roman,”
Marlena retorted with a shake of her head.
“I am *not* you political protégée, I will *not* subject myself to lies and deceit in order to get you elected! I may be the wife of a heartless bastard, who worries more about his whores than his family, but you’re *not* going treat me like one of your call girls, Honey. Unlike them, I wasn’t *paid* to put up with your sh*t, I stayed here for the sake of my children. But, as God as my witness, I will leave faster than you can say Senator Wesley if you keep pushing!”
“Ouch, the bitter, cold Misses still has a little fire left.” Roman laughed arrogantly, not to the amusement of his angry wife.
“Go to hell,” she seethed, as she turned to storm from the room, only to be jolted back by an offer she couldn’t possibly refuse.
“What if I promise to pass the bill to send 1,000,000 in funds to Habitat for Humanity, and help to get you in the committee?”
“You son of a b*tch,” she answered in disbelief, appalled at the lengths he would think to con people onto his side. “You want me to *lie* to all those people, those hard working families who are going to invest all their faith and trust into you. People who go to work with their heads held high thinking, “it’s gonna be okay, cause Roman Brady is looking out for me and my family. A well respected family man, and a damn good U.S. Senator”, when in reality, your shacked up with some slut, while I’m home rasing the kids!”
“I am a *damn* good father!” Roman yelled back, as his wife looked at him with contempt.
“Yea Roman, you are a good father.” She agreed with an ironic laugh, “when it’s good for you and good for your campaign, you a g*ddamn poster boy for ‘Father of the Year’! You’ve gotten so good at the act, I myself tend to forget that it isn’t real. It’s convenience.”
“Well, you know me better than anyone, Babe. Whatever it takes to get elected I will do it. Even sell my soul.” Roman smirked snidely.
“What happened to the ambitious man I married?”
Marlena wondered aloud, as she gazed at him, trying hard to find some evidence of the man she had loved enough to want to spend the rest of her life with.
“The man whose goal was to become CEO of his Dad’s corporation, the second generation immigrant who wanted to do to America what it did for his Irish based family, offered them opportunity, granted them freedom. The man I married wanted to best for everyone, to make this country great. Now, the man standing in front of me only wants what is good for him. What I wanna know is, when did all that change?”
“When I realized that my dreams weren’t about getting everyone else ahead,” He replied back suavely, as he walked over to the sofa, and took a seat beside Abe, and his speechwriter, Jack Deveraux. “It was about *me* getting ahead.
“”I hate you,” She sneered, “you make me sick!”
“Ah well, one woman hates me, I’ll live.” He winked, “after all, I’ve got a six month stash locked away for a rainy day.”
“Rains everyday with the storm of Congressman Brady,” Marlena shot back, as she once again attempted to leave the room.
“So, babe,” Roman called out, “you in or out? A lot of down and out families sure could use those funds. I’ll even hire you a spin control specialist, help make it easier on you.”
“All right, I am going to make this very clear, so I suggest you listen because, I’m only going to say it once, because frankly, that’s already more energy than I should waste on your lying ass.”
Marlena explained, as she folded her arms across her chest, and stood sternly.
“I am doing it for the benefit of those families, and not, for one solitary second, am I doing this as a personal favor for you. I hate you. I hope that I never have to look at you again. As soon as I can avoid a scandal for my children, I will leave this God forsaken marriage. Until then, I will keep my mouth shut for the benefit of my family, and for the people who need the extra help. Not for the rotten pr*ck running for office.”
With that, Marlena motioned a good-bye, and walked away from the cunning Congressman, a task she’d seemed to have gotten very good at over the years.
“Excellent!” The politician triumphed, “Got Mar on board, now I just have to contrive the most convincing, believable, and effective story of loving family man for the naive electorate to eat from the palm of my sly little hands.”
“This isn’t gonna be easy, Chief.” Abe instructed, “we need to best money can buy.”
“I know that,” Roman said calmly, “which is why I want you to call up the head honcho on Pennsylvania Ave. Tell the schmuck it’s time to collect on my supporting him on the road to the white house, and I intend to clean up house.”
“What do you want me to ask for him?” Abe questioned.
“Only to send me the best, and nothing less.” Roman instructed, as he leaned back and stretched his feet out along the coffee table. “I want his right hand man, John “I can make the nail in your coffin the halo over your head” Black.”
Chapter 3 “Hail to the Chief”
“I was waiting for you to collect,” President Tom Horton laughed, making himself comfortable at his desk in the oval office. “So, what do you want from me, Brady? My best intern? A maid? One of my VP’s gals to keep you warm and cozy up at Camp David while Marlena raises your kids?”
“You hate me don’t ya?” Roman asked snidely, as he sat back in his chair, and looked over the Commander in Chief with confidence, knowing he had the leader of the free world in the palm of his hand. “You don’t have to answer that, it’s a rhetorical question. Hell, 3 out of 4 politicians do, my wife does, even my dog runs the other way, the little bitch has been trained by the big one.”
“Roman, it makes me feel all warm and fuzzy to hear you talk about Marlena that way. Marrying her might have been the only smart thing your sorry, womanizing ass ever did. That, and promote me for President across party lines.”
“Oh don’t give me that holier than thou bullshit,” Roman groaned, as he rolled his eyes. “I didn’t support you cause you’re an honest man, and it helps to unite parties. I did it to make *me* look good, and damn did it work. But, since in the process, I managed to gain a favor from ya, I am, like you said, here to collect.”
“This is the *one* thing I hate about politics,” Tom complained, as he glared with contempt at the man seated before him. “Guys like me, who actually give a *damn* about our families, our morals, about the present and furture stability for this country have to pay debts to low life bastards like you who’re just in it for power, the title, and the women.”
“Hey don’t get pissed cause your wife has you whipped, Tommy boy.” Roman winked, “In life, there are two kinds of men. Those who spend their lives doing the *right* thing, remaining tight assed, with a big Santa complex, feeling the need to do for others and give back to this great land called the U.S. of A. Those men are like you. Then, there are those of us who look out for the *real* numero uno, *ourselves*. We don’t give a shit about anything except getting ahead, and we do whatever it takes to get there. That’s the difference about the men we are, Mr. President. You want power to help this country out, and I want it to help *me* out.”
“You nauseate me, Brady,” Tom replied, shaking his head in disgust. “The mere fact that I helped to get you where you are cause I thought you cared about the people of this nation makes me sick, but as you said, you only give a damn about yourself. So, before I have to listen to anymore of your crap, tell me what it is that you want so I can get you the hell out of here, and send you up the Hill with the rest of those corrupt bastards. Those bastards whose weekdays are spent on the floor of the Senate, and weekends are spent in the beds of every woman within a 2 mile radius of Washington D.C.”
“I want your best spin control man, President Horton,” Roman answered with a wide grin, “I want John Black to turn my wife from bitter and betrayed to loving and lighthearted. I want her to look like the Princess living the fairy tale, with me as her Prince. A knight in shining armor, whose dream is to slay the dragons that threaten this country, as he has slayed those who threaten his wife.”
“I can’t believe I have to use one of my best men to fix the tangled webs you and the other dirty pols weave,” Tom sighed, as he reached for his phone, “Marlo?”
“Yes Mr. President?”
“Get John Black on the phone please. Tell him I would like to meet with him tomorrow for lunch. Try to squeeze it in between my breakfast with The Prime Minister of Israel, and my one o’clock with the Senate Finance committee, okay?”
“Will do, Sir.”
“Thank you,” Tom nodded, as he slammed his phone down, and reverted his attention back to Roman. “All right, you wanna play dirty, I’ll get my best man to help clean up the mess. But I am warning you, Brady, I will be watching you. If you don’t listen to everything John tells you to do, and defy his instructions, I will have your ass back on the Salem P.D. as a beat cop faster than you can say, ‘I’ll have 2 glazed donuts and a cup of joe to go’, understand?”
“You’re making the right choice, Prez,” Roman smiled, as he extended his hand to an unappreciative recipient, “You’re gonna need me to get those bills passed up on the Hill.”
“I know, which is why I hate the fact that there are honest people in this world like me, but in order to get ahead, we have to do favors for assh*les like you,” Tom answered angrily, as he got up from his desk, and stormed away from the conniving politician.
“Sticks and stones, Mr. President,” Roman noted with sarcasm, “sticks and stones. You can say whatever you want, but the truth is, without us villians keeping you good guys on your toes, the electorate would’ve lost interest long ago.”
Chapter 4 “Strangers in the Night”
“John Black’s room, please.” Marlena Evans asked the desk clerk of the Syberis, one of Chicago’s finest hotels, as she sat down her purse, and brushed a few stray tendrils of hair from her eyes.
The uncommon coldness of late October in Illinois had become almost unbearable for her. It wasn’t even Thanksgiving, and the weather was dipping well into the thirties. To make matters worse, Roman had sent her off to Chi-town to be coached by who he called “The Cecil B. DeMille” of politics. Even when things were at their worst, John Black had a knack for making everything appear as lighthearted and fun as a classic movie, fully equipped with Once upon a time, straight through to happily ever after. As much as the thought of playing loving wife to Roman nauseated her, she knew it was in the best interests of her children, as well as many other children, to put up the facade. No matter how much the lies hurt, the truth would have hurt her one thousand times amplified.
“Dr. Evans-Brady?” The concierge asked, as he walked up behind her, and gently tapped her shoulder.
“Yes?”
“Mr. Black is awaiting you in the lounge, he asked me to escort you there personally.”
“Thank you.” Marlena smiled, as she gathered her belongings.
“Right this way.”
Strangers in the night, exchanging glances
Wond’ring in the night, what were the chances
“Mr. Black?” The concierge interrupted, as the ruggedly handsome man looked up from the piano he’d been playing, and glanced over Marlena.
“Thank you, Harris, that will be all.” John smiled graciously, as he walked over and tipped that grateful attendee, who then proceeded on with his own business, closing the lounge doors behind him.
“I’m sorry, I do my best work listening to Frank.” John apologized with a bright smile, as he extended his hand to Marlena. “I’m John Black, and you must be Dr. Brady?”
“Marlena, please.” She smiled back, as she excepted his hand. “And I really don’t mind a bit about the music. Frank is one of my favorites.”
“Good,” John exclaimed proudly. “I can’t think of a better way to break the ice as we work to get this plan in motion then with a little Sinatra. I also took the liberty of reserving the lobby for us, and some food and drinks are over by the bar. Please, just help yourself to whatever you’d like..”
“That’s very kind of you, thank you.”
“Hey, it’s the least I can do. I know that this isn’t going to be easy for you, so I am going to make this as painless as possible. I want you to feel at ease. I am not her to dredge up the bad, Marlena. My job is to bring out the good.”
“I don’t think we’re going to find too much of that about Roman and I,” she sighed, “but I am willing to try, and I appreciate your effort greatly.”
“My pleasure,” He nodded, and then spun around back to the piano, cracking his knuckles as he made himself comfortable. “Now, why don’t you go help yourself to some refreshments, and I’ll keep the Frank cranking. I promise, by night’s end, we’re gonna make everything all right.”
We’d be sharing love before the night was through
Something in your eyes was so inviting
Something in your smile was so exciting
“Okay,” John began, as Marlena sat beside him on the bench, feeling a lot better after having ate something to settle her stomach. “Where should we begin?”
“That’s a hard question,” Marlena replied sadly, “I guess somewhere between where things went wrong, and then where things got worse.”
“No,” John answered quickly, as he shook his head. “I don’t want to talk about that. I told you, this isn’t about the bad, this is about the *good*. My job is to make everything that hurts and causes pain go away, that’s what spin control is. It’s kind of like restoring a damaged masterpiece, and I consider myself the Leonardo DaVinci of my trade, Marlena.”
“Cecil B. DeMille, DaVinci, you sound like a regular Renaissance man, Mr. Black.”
“I try,” he winked, as he ran his fingers across the ivories, and continued with the melody he’d been playing. “But seriously, I’m going to treat you not only as my Mona Lisa, but as my Oscar worthy picture. So tell me, what is your favorite movie?”
“What does that have to do with anything?” Marlena chuckled, as she tucked her hair behind her ear.
“Just trust me. I can tell a lot about a person and a situation just by little trivial questions. So please, what is your *all* time favorite movie?”
“High Society,” Marlena answered without hesitation.
“Figures,”John mumbled.
“Why?” Marlena asked curiously, “cause it’s a chick flick? For your information, it had Ol’ Blue Eyes himself in it!”
“No, not that. I just said it figures because when I first saw you, I thought of Grace Kelly.”
Something in my heart told me I must have you
Strangers in the night, two lonely people
We were strangers in the night
Marlena blushed, as she looked up at John and smiled.
“I bet you say that to all the girls.”
“No,” John insisted, as he looked directly into her toasted orbs, “that’s not a comment to waste on just anyone. And I don’t say things I don’t mean, especially not to a married woman who has a family. I meant that in the highest regard, and with all do respect.”
“I know,” Marlena assured, “that’s why you have the job you do. Only a respectable man could see the tainted world of politics through rose colored glasses, and not only that, but show the voters your vision as well.”
Up to the moment when we said our first hello, little did we know
Love was just a glance away, a warm embracing dance away
“Thanks,” John grinned. “But that’s not important now. My job is to make you Tracy Samantha Lord and Roman C.K. Dexter-Haven.”
“You know you’re classics, I’m impressed.”
“Nah, this is nothing. Wait until you see how things go when I get this production rolling.” John noted, “And baby, you’re gonna be my little Hollywood starlit, assuming of course you up to the job?”
“Whatever it takes.” Marlena said confidently, “I’ll do whatever it takes.”
And ever since that night, we’ve been together
“Good.” John beamed. “Then I think we’re all settled for tonight, I’ll get to writing a memorable plot summary, and we can go over things tomorrow at lunch, say one-thirty at Stefani’s? It’ll be my treat.”
“Well, I guess I can’t turn down that offer.” Marlena smiled, as she slipped into her coat, and reached for her purse.
“So that’s a yes?”
“Mmm hmm.”
“Okay then,” John answered, as he got to his feet, and once again extended his hand to Marlena. “Until we meet again.”
“I’m looking forward to it,” She grinned, as she accepted the offer of his hand shake.
“So am I.”
John smiled back, as the two found themselves lost in each other’s gaze, for a few stolen moments.
“I guess I better go,” Marlena finally spoke up, barely managing to break herself from the trance his captivating blue eyes had forced her to fall into.
“Yea, it’s getting kind of late,” John answered reluctantly, not wanting this amazing first meeting to end.
“See you tomorrow, John.”
“You bet.”
He said, as he watched her walk off towards the exit, and then returned back to the piano bench.
“John?” Her voice called out, just as she was about to close the door behind her.
“Yes?”
“About High Society…”
Lovers at first sight, in love forever
“I wanted her with Frank, too.”
“How did you know?”
“Cause,” He smirked, as he once again began to play, “There’s no way Grace Kelly woulda picked Bing over the Chairman of the board.”
“I can’t argue with that,” Marlena grinned, “Good night, John.”
“Good night, Gracie.”
It turned out so right for strangers in the night
Chapter 5- Spin Control
“And what may I get the two of you this afternoon?” The waiter of Stefani’s asked as John and Marlena glanced over their menus.
“I’d like the Petti Di Polo Alla Valdostana, and a glass of Pinot Grigio, please.” Marlena smiled, as she handed her menu to the server, and then reached for her glass of limonata.
“Excellent choice, and you sir?”
“I’ll have a glass of Pinot Noir, and the Filetto di manzo ai Porcini, medium well, please.”
“Certainly.” The waiter replied, as he jotted down, and then proceeded away from the table.
“Filetto di manzo ai Porcini,” John repeated, in his best attempt on an Italian accent. “I bet you can’t say that three times fast.”
“I can’t even say it one time slow,” Marlena laughed, as she fidgeted with her napkin.
“Ah well, it tastes damn good. Beats the hell out of me as to what it translates to, but, it goes down nicely with a glass of merlot.”
“Well, they say 50% of what makes any meal appetizing is it’s presentation, so I suppose it’s literal meaning isn’t much anyway.”
“Good point,” John smiled, as he reached for his briefcase, and pulled out several pieces of paper which he handed to Marlena. “All right, Gracie, this is my defining scene, and *your* defining moment in the center ring of this circus they call politics. Yes, those Wringling Brothers have nothing on the ball-juggling, lion taming, tightrope walking politicians of Capitol Hill.”
“You can say that again,” Marlena nodded as she flipped through the document. “So I have to deliver this speech?”
“Well, maybe and maybe not.” John noted, as he sat back comfortably in his chair.
“What does that mean?”
“Well, if Stefano DiMera wins the mayoral election next Tuesday, he’ll pave the way for Roman by gaining him Chi-town and all surrounding areas. Then you will have to make the speech, kind of as the icing on the cake, get it?.”
“I just hope my stomach holds out long enough to feed the people this load of bullshit.”
“Don’t worry, I’ll have some pepto bismol handy,” John winked, “On the other hand, if Johnson wins, you can stick a fork in your Hubby, cause he’s chances for the Senate will be done. Johnson will promote the values Wesley stands for, expose the deceptions and infidelity of Roman, and not only will he lose this race, his bony little blarney stone butt will be back on the Salem P.D. by Thanksgiving of next year.”
“When did my life become a soap opera?” Marlena asked in disgust, as she rested her arms on the table, and sulked.
“Welcome to Washington, babe.” John teased as he lifted his glass of water, “jam packed with more sex, lies, action, plot, scandal, and intrigue than all the daytime dramas combined.”
***************
“Hello?” Roman Brady’s groggy voice called through the phone.
“How’s my future Senator doing?”
“You dirty S.O.B.” Roman chuckled, as sat up and bed, quickly glancing over the Roman he’d taken home the night. “Don’t count your chickens before they hatch, DiMera. We’re not taking over just yet.”
“Speak for yourself, Brady.” Stefano retorted. “You’re talking to the soon to be Mayor Elect of Chicago.”
“You sound confident.”
“Oh, I am.” Stefano assured, “So where’s the Misses?”
“Why do you ask that?”
“Because, I was with you last night when you took home that stripper. Now I know Marlena knows about your infidelity, hell, everyone basically does, but I also know she wouldn’t allow that in her house if she were there.”
“She’s off in Chicago, with my new spin control guy, cooking up a nice little plan to secure my election.”
“And who’s this golden boy training your wife.”
“Come on, DiMera, you know I only settle for the best.”
“Oh, don’t tell me you whipped Horton into giving you John Black?”
“Oh, but I did.” Roman remarked proudly, as he sat back against the headboard.
“Should we open the champagne tonight or next Tuesday?”
“Hell, why settle for one? We can open all from now until Tuesday.”
“Sounds good to me. But I gotta go, I’ll meet you tonight at the Porter Club. A little pre-election celebration.”
“You got it, Mayor DiMera.”
“Excellent, so until then, Senator.”
**************
“Thank you for a lovely lunch.” Marlena smiled, as she and John exited Stefani’s.
“It was my pleasure.” John answered, “It’s not everyday I get to share a meal with a Grace Kelly look alike.”
“Careful, John.” Marlena warned, “you might give me any ego with all those compliments.
“I told you before, I only speak the truth.”
John reminded, as the two stood silently in the cold for the next several minutes, unsure where to take this conversation, or if taking this conversation any further would be a good idea.
“Well, I guess I’ll see you back here on election day.”
“Yep.” John nodded, as he reached for her hand and brought it to his lips, kissing it gently. “Until we meet again.”
“I’m looking forward to it,” Marlena answered, as she blushed slightly.
“That makes two of us.”
With that, John and Marlena reluctantly parted ways. Although they were already in the midst of a controversial election, nothing was going to prepare them for what they were about to fall into with each other.
Chapter 6- And the Winner Is…
“All right people, exit polls should be out for Salem, Chi-town, and Springfield within the hour.”
Abe Carver announced as he hung up the telephone, and continued back to the many numbers, documents, faxes, and phone calls pouring in.
“I hate election day.” John mumbled to Marlena, as he sipped his scotch on the rocks. “Makes my job so much more stressful.”
“Be thankful it’s only once every two or four years.” Marlena encouraged, as she sit beside him on the sofa, in the midst of the chaos.
“Dammit!” Abe Carver yelled, as he slammed down the phone in disgust.
“What?” Roman asked nervously, as he paced to and fro.
“According to the latest exit polls, we lost two seats in the House for you, Pal. Lawson beat Carter in Rolling Meadows, and it looks like Richards is gaining on Cooper in Winnetka.”
“Christ Abe!” Roman screamed, “why do you worry me with that bullshit? Those towns don’t mean a damn thing! As long as DiMera is holding on in Chi-town, and I know Lawrence Alamain has Salem in the bag.”
“Why did I marry him?”
Marlena questioned herself, as she glanced over to John, then back to Roman, paying close attention to what the man of her dreams was supposed to be, and how the man she thought had been, turned out to be her worst nightmare.
“Yes!” Abe exclaimed, as he read over the latest fax, and rushed to Roman. “Alamain is the Mayor of Salem, and Brandon Walker is running away with Springfield. Roman, if Stefano can sweep Chicago, that Senate seat is as good as yours!”
“Wonderful!” He exclaimed proudly, as he walked to the bar and poured himself a glass of Jack Daniels. “Come on DiMera, don’t fail me now.”
“I still don’t understand how Stefano winning makes things easier for you.” Marlena questioned with doubt.
“I couldn’t care less what you do and don’t understand, all that matters is that when he wins tonight, I am gonna be ordering myself a Senatorial liscense plate in the morning. So here’s to me.” Roman gloated as he lifted his glass to the air, and took a swig.
“They both carry the American Dream stereotype, Marlena.” John attempted to explain, catching on to the hurt Marlena felt from her husband’s arrogance. “You see, they’re both second generation immigrants, who came to this country in hopes of a better life for themselves, and for their families. Their parents know what a struggle is, and they use that to show how they can relate to the average American family. The play their hand of knowing how to help lift a financial and stressful burden. Whereas guys like Craig Wesley, Tom Horton, and Brandon Walker use the homegrown approach. They know America, their families are straight from America, they eat, live, and breathe America, and they would die for America. Does that make sense?”
“Thank you, John. It makes perfect sense” Marlena smiled graciously, “But, you really didn’t have to go through all of that just because the future Senator Asshole likes to treat me like shit. I actually prefer to stay as far away from this mess as possible.”
“Hey I don’t blame you.” He grinned, “if I had a choice in the matter, I wouldn’t be here either.”
“Why are you here?” Marlena asked curiously. “I mean, why are you here watching the returns when you could easily bring dignity and humility back to offices of power. I have no doubt in my mind that a respectable man like you wouldn’t win by a landslide.”
“And you say I am gonna give *you* an ego.” John teased, “But seriously, if I were to get into this game, I’d have all of these low life’s calling the shots, and the guys like me forced to keep quiet, just so we could get the right thing done for them, but not being able to speak up for the matters important to us. You think Tom Horton is the Commander in chief? Nope, it’s all Kiriakis up there. Tom just sits back, keeps to himself, and lets things go on as long as the country is happy, and the economy is thriving. I refuse to be a lackey to that. It’s frustrating enough to pain the picture perfect American political candidate in the job that I have now, but at least from where I am sitting, I can throw in some issues that hit home with me as a pay off. See Marlena, unlike these guys, it’s not about getting me ahead. It’s about getting everyone else ahead. I have power, I have ideas, I stay true to myself, I stand up for what I believe in, I fight for what’s right, and I love my country. I am no different from any other American citizen, and I would never act like I was. I’m me, and that’s the best I can do. To tell you the truth, I’d take that over any office, amount of money, women, and power any day.”
“You’re the American dream,” Marlena declared, completely in awe of his heartfelt confession.
“I don’t know about all that,” John said as he bashfully bowed his head, “I mean, there are men and women who risk their lives everyday to protect us, to keep us safe, all out of dedication and adoration for this country. Those are our heroes, and none of them get *half* of the recognition or publicity as these selfish bastards.”
“You’re my hero.” Marlena whispered, as she reached over and rested her hand atop his. “You see the good in everyone, no matter how horrid they are, you manage to find something for people to admire. You speak so passionately about the people we should idolize, and about the common bond we all share as American citizens. You’ve managed to stay true to yourself in a world where image is everything, and the more your like everyone else, the better off you are. You amaze me, John. You selflessness, your intelligence, your determination, your ambition, your heart, your hopes and dreams, your courage, your passion. Everything.”
“Marlena, you don’t have to say those things.” John stated, as he gazed deeply into her toasted orbs.
“Well,” Marlena answered back, never breaking contact with his alluring blue eyes. Like you, I won’t say something if I don’t mean it.”
“Ladies and Gentlemen!” Roman exclaimed, as he came back into the living room, just in time t break the tension that had seemingly enveloped John and Marlena.
“The numbers just came back,” He began as he lifted a bottle of champagne from the bar, and fidgeted with the cork. “And Stefano DiMera is the new Mayor of Chi-town!”
“I don’t know whether to be enthused, or to vomit.” Marlena rolled her eyes in disgust, as she whispered to John, the only other person in the room who was not cheering.
“So here’s to our new Mayor up in Chicago, and to the future Senator from the state of Illinois, Roman Augustus Brady!”
“Don’t toot your own horn or anything.” Marlena said with contempt.
“Don’t worry Mar,” Roman assured, “this victory is just the beginning of my road to the top, and the best is yet to come.”
Chapter 7- Witchcraft
“Coming!” John Black yelled across his hotel room, as he wrapped his bathrobe around him, and tied it securely before answering the door.
“Happy Thanksgiving!” Marlena smiled on the other side, her arms loaded with an abundance of food.
“What is all this?” John asked with a laugh, as he helped her carry the items inside.
“It’s a Turkey Day feast, silly.” Marlena teased, as she placed everything down on his dining room table, and then proceeded to remove her hat and gloves. “Roman and the boys went out whoring, as they usually do to celebrate the holidays, or any day that ends in ‘y’. So, I thought if they’re enjoying themselves, why can’t I?”
“Good point,” John noted, as he tried to sneak a peak at the morsels of food she’d brought with her.
“Well, I figured the best way to do that was to bring some leftovers to the man who has helped me forget all the marital strife and political chaos over the last few weeks. So here I am along with some homemade turkey, stuffing, yams, peas, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie.”
“I guess I have a whole lot to be thankful for,” John grinned, “this was so nice of you. It’s hard having to work through the holidays.”
“It was the least I could do after all you’ve done to help me,” Marlena assured, as she began to remove the foil from their dinner. “Now, whattaya say you go get dressed, and I’ll heat all this up, and the two of us can enjoy a nice, friendly, political-free Thanksgiving dinner.”
“I’d say that’s the best offer I’ve had since I got involved in Washington.”
*************************************
“Well, I’m stuffed,” John groaned, as he plopped down on the sofa, a glass of wine in hand. “No pun intended, of course.”
“Of course,” Marlena winked as she sat beside him, and sipped her Chardonnay. “I take it you liked my little surprise?”
“Now that right there is the understatement of the year, I *loved* your surprise,” John emphasized, “I’m telling you, I don’t need to eat from now until Christmas thanks to that meal.”
“Well,” Marlena said as she bowed her head. “I had a *little* help.”
“A little help?” John asked, as he arched his eyebrow in curiousity.
“Well I defrosted the turkey, then Caroline, Roman’s mother, cooked and stuffed it, she mashed the potatoes, candied the yams, buttered the peas, and mixed the pie, but I did the rest, and let me tell you, it was *not* easy putting the whipped cream on just right, and putting just a sprig of parsly on the potatoes as garnish. I mean, you try to keep in mind that less is more, but once you get started with presentation, it’s so hard to stop.”
“I can imagine,” he chuckled. “You seem close with Roman’s Mom.”
“I’m close with both his parents,” Marlena admitted. “Shawn, too. They’re such amazingly generous and loving people, it baffles me how they could have such a bastard of a son, but I guess there’s always one bad apple in the bunch.”
“Come on, he couldn’t have always been that way,” John questioned. “I don’t think somone as sweet and compassionate as you could’ve fallen in love with him if he’d been a jack ass from day one.”
“No you’re right,” Marlena sighed, “Roman wasn’t always a womazing prick, to put it bluntly. When I first met him, he was ambitious, determined, and oh so charming. I think it was his confidence in succeeding that made him so appealing to me. God, I didn’t fall for many guys but when I did, I feel hard. Especially with Roman. Even after we were married, and he got elected to City Council, I ignored the little hints and clues of his infidelity cause I was just so profoundly and passionately intrigued by this man who’d captured my heart that I couldn’t bring myself to believe my fairytale wasn’t true.”
“Hey, you don’t have to talk about it if you don’t want to,” John said wholeheartedly, taking notice to how upset she was becoming from this conversation, tears threatening to brim her hazel orbs.
“No it’s ok. I *am* a shrink, and I always tell my patients not to hold back, I’m just not used to having the roles reversed.” Marlena laughed, as she reached to wipe several stray tears from her eyes. “It wasn’t until I saw him at out at the country club, practically having sex with his masseuse on the massage table. It hit me then that the rumors were real, and that my instincts were wrong. And I think that is what hurt me most. I always thought I could read people ya know? And like every little girl, I thought when I married, it’d be happily ever after. But I was wrong, and if there’s one thing I hate, it’s being wrong.”
“Even Superman could be destroyed by kryptonite, Marlena,” John consoled, as he leaned in to caress her cheek lovingly. “One bad choice doesn’t mean your a horrid person Marlena. It’s the bruises we get when we fall that shows us we’re human. We all bleed, and we all get up and clean up. You can’t let one bad fall keep you down, Marlena. Time heals all wounds.”
“How come you know just what to say to make me feel better?” Marlena smiled, as she gazed deeply into his alluring blue eyes.
“I have my ways,” he winked as he got up from the sofa, and walked towards his stereo. “Now, I can’t think of a better way to end good meal and deep chat then with a little bit of Frank.”
“I bet you thought the way to end the Gulf War was a little bit of Frank,” Marlena giggled, at his undying passion for Sinatra’s music.
“You mean you heard of the bill I proposed? Operation Ol’ Blue Eyes?”
“I wouldn’t put it passed you,” she noted, as she sat back and folded her hands across her chest.
“What can I say,” John shrugged. “I have a thing for the coolest singer of the 20th century. But, do you blame me?”
“No,” Marlena smiled.
“Okay then,” John exclaimed, as he walked over and extended his hand to hers. “Dance with me.”
Those fingers in my hair
That sly come hither stare
That strips my conscience bare
It’s witchcraft
Accepting his hand, Marlena took John’s lead to the middle of the living room floor. Slowly, he took her hand, and placed it over his heart, holding it there firmly and securely as he stared deeply into her captivating toasted eyes. Just the way he looked at her caused her heart to melt. With a deep breath, she moved her arm to drape over his shoulder, as he pulled her in closer, as the two swayed in perfect rhythm to the music, and completely in sync with each other.
And I’ve got no defense for it
The heat is too intense for it
What good would common sense for it do
“Was this song about Ava Gardner?” Marlena asked nervously, desperate to try and ease the tension that had filled the candlelit room as the two lost themselves in each other’s embrace.
‘Cause it’s witchcraft, wicked witchcraft
And although, I know, it’s strictly taboo
“I dunno about that,” John answered as he pulled back to look at her once more, tired of holding back, and ready to for once, take initiative and speak his mind. “But I do know that right here and right now, for me, this song is about *you*.”
When you arouse the need in me
My heart says yes indeed in me
Proceed with what your leading me to
“John…” Marlena’s voice pleaded as chills ran down her spine. She knew his words were the truth, and she knew she reciprocated those feelings, and it was that which scared her the most.
“I’m tired of pretending, Marlena,” John said in frustration, as he pulled away, and turned away. “Roman can flaunt every whore in the Capitol, but the one he should be showing off he takes for granted! God, I wish you were mine. I would treat the way a *real* man should. You would be my Queen. My heart, my soul, my *everything*.”
“John, please don’t say that,” Marlena begged, as tears streamed down her angelic face.
“Why?” John asked, as he raised the tone of his voice, “cause it’s true? Because you want me, too, don’t you?”
“I ca- I dunno, I don’t know!” she shouted as she raced for her coat and gloves. “I’m sorry, John. I have to go,” Marlena cried, as she raced for the door, and fidgeted nervously with the doorknob. “Dammit!” he screamed in frustration and confusion, as John walked over to help her, unlocking the door as he put his head over the curve of his shoulder, brushing the hair away from her eyes, causing her to gasp in shock as he whispered.
“You can fight it now,” he said firmly, “but you’ll realize I’m right, and when you’re ready to admit that, you *know* where to find me.”
It’s such an ancient pitch
But one I wouldn’t switch
‘Cause there’s no nicer witch than you
Chapter 8- And Then You Kissed Me
The Brady household was filled with sounds of laughter and holiday cheer. Family and friends joined to celebrate not only the Christmas season, but the election of Stefano DiMera. It was just one more step to getting Roman to the Senate, and many party members were please. Almost the entered room was pleased that their efforts had been a success, everyone except for Marlena.
She wore a strapless red dress made of silk shantung that hugged her curves and had a slit on the side running up to her thigh. Red stiletto heels strapped to her feet and a matching red wrap completed the look. Glancing over the room of conniving politicians, a wife on their arms smiling, and a whore at a hotel waiting for them afterwards. It was enough to make her sick. She might have been like them in the sense that her husband cheated, but she refused to be used for sure. If Roman was going to make her life hell, then she’d do her best to reciprocate.
“God, I *hate* Christmas,” she groaned as she walked over to the closest waiter, and grabbed herself a glass of champagne.
“Marlena! Is that you?” The annoying voice of Hope Williams called from across the room.
“Oh God, shoot me now,”
Marlena mumbled, as she rolled her eyes, and downed her drink, before turning around, and attempting to put up the facade of happiness.
“Hope! How are you, darling?” She managed to get out, but just barely.
“I’m fabulous, just got back from the honeymoon with Bo, we’re so excited he was named Mayor of Detroit, following in his brother’s footsteps. Loving husband, father, honest politician. He’s sure is something! So is Roman!”
“Oh yes, Roman sure is *something*.” Marlena smiled despite the fact that her stomach was now in knots.
“Yea, well I guess I should continue mingling, I just wanted to say hello, and I hope you and Roman have a Happy New Year.”
“Oh I know we will,” Marlena assured as she watched her sister-in-law take off, and then reached for another glass of bubbly. “Separately, we’ll have the time of our f*cking lives.”
********************************
“There’s the man!” Roman Brady exclaimed, as he walked over to greet John.
“Hey Roman,” He smiled, as he shook his hand. “Merry Christmas.”
“Same to you, Pal. You’re part of the reason we’re celebrating so much now, and will be celebrating even more later. That is, if ya know what I mean.” The sly Congressman winked.
“No, I don’t think I do.” John questioned with curiosity.
“You, me, the boys. There’s some fine women waiting down on the strip for us, consider it my gift to you. This is just the pre-party, the real meaning of Christmas awaits, and it’s named Billie, Faye, Kristen, and Rebecca. Are you game?”
“Sorry, Roman.” John replied, while his eyes roamed across the room to Marlena, drowning her sorrows at the bar. “Think I’ll pass tonight.”
“Man, you don’t what you’re missing.”
“No Roman,” John answered as he shook his head, and kept his eyes glued on the gorgeous vision that stood across the room wallowing. “I know *exactly* what I am missing.”
I thought I knew, the magic of you
And then, you kissed me
Dear, when you kissed me
I simply stood there and gazed, completely amazed
*********************************
“Leave him,” John’s rugged voice pierced through her body, his warm breath came in contact with her skin, as he delicately brushed the hair from her ear as he spoke. “Leave him, and come to *me*.”
I walked around, both feet on the ground
And then, you kissed me
Dear, when you kissed me
I found myself on a cloud, apart from the crowd
“I can’t,” She protested, turning to face him as tears welled her hazel orbs. “Please just let me be.”
With that, the aching blonde fled the room, and straight for the terrace, trying to find some solace away from the man who was stealing her heart, but knowing fully well that she may be able to run, but there was no way to hide.
I had nothing to glow about
You came by
Now I know all there’s to know about
Things like stars in the sky
“Why can’t you?” John questioned as he slowly followed her out on the balcony and into the cold December air.
“You know why, John. There are four reasons why under that roof right now.” She answered back, pulling her wrap around her more tightly in a desperate attempt to beat the cold.
“No, there are three reasons in there,” He corrected, as he took a chance and walking closer towards her. “And if those children knew the real son of a bitch their father was, I bet they wouldn’t want you with the fourth as much as you don’t want to be with him.”
I will confess I thought for awhile
That you’d resist me
But then you kissed me
And now I’m in love
“Do you realized what you’re doing?” Marlena cried aloud, as tears streamed down her angelic face. “You’re asking me to sacrifice my family, to give up my life to *you*!”
“No!” John shouted back, as he moved closer to her still, “I am asking not asking you to give up your children, or your life to me. All I want is your heart. Give that up to me with all your love, and I promise, I’ll take all the pain away. I’ll make this work.”
I will confess I thought for awhile
That you’d resist me
But then you kissed me
And now I’m in love
“At what cost?” She asked him in between sobs, “My husband losing the one thing he has loved unconditionally all his life? My children knowing how horrid their father is? I can’t do that, John! I’ve fallen once, and I’ve fallen hard. My whole marriage has been one big sky dive, and I am *not* ready to fall again. I am not ready to risk everything!”
“Dammit don’t you understand!” He yelled in frustration, flinging his arms towards the sky. “You don’t have to fall for me! You can fall *with* me. This is about us being together, not about you being hurt. God, it makes me so pissed to see how Roman has destroyed your trust, and ruined your faith in love.”
John sighed, as he reached out his hand to her face, and dabbed her tears away with the pads of his thumbs.
“I’m not Roman, Marlena. You don’t have to be afraid of the fall,” John assured, as he brushed several stray tendrils of hair from her face, and gazed deeply into her pained hazel orbs. “because if you do….” he whispered, as slowly he inched his face to hers, their foreheads touching slightly, as she closed her eyes and got lost in the moment for which time had stood still, “if you do….I’ll catch you.”
With that, John pressed his lips to hers. After weeks of tension, stolen moments, and fighting, the release in that first kiss was worth every second. Nothing could have been more perfect than the passion and intensity shared in that solitary embrace, their mouths connecting and tongues colliding with a love so hungry and a need so great that it was only a matter of time before they were in way over their heads. Little did they know, an intrigued witness was going to make that innocent declaration of love the start of the biggest uphill battle they’d ever have to face.
You kissed me
And now I’m in love
Chapter 9- Irreconcilable Differences
“Thank God they’re gone,” Marlena mumbled, as she attempted to clear some glasses from about the room in her tipsy state.
“Leave it for the help,” Roman’s groggy voice called from the foyer, as he hung up his jacket, and walked towards the den.
“Home from whoring so early?” Marlena shot back in a snarky tone, “What’s wrong, Honey? Did little Buffy have a curfew?”
“Jealous?” he asked with a grin.
“Not really, I’ve seen what you’ve got to offer. But I am sympathetic to the little bimbo, paid to screw you when she could probably have a *real* man for free.” Marlena answered with a smirk, as she reached down to take off her heels, and headed for the stairs.
“A real man, huh?” Roman questioned, walking to the corridor, and leaning against it, as he watched her start up the steps. “I guess you would classify John Black as a ‘real man,’ hmm?”
“What the hell is that supposed to mean?”
“It means I saw your little lip lock on the terrace tonight, and you should both consider yourselves *damn* lucky that I was the only one.” He warned.
“Excuse me?” Marlena asked angrily, shooting back around to face him.
“I mean that if you and that little bastard f*ck this election for me, I will make life hell for both of you. And as God as my witness, you will *never* see those children again.”
“Oh yea?” She asked as she glared at him with pure contempt, “That sounds like a threat.”
“Not a threat,” he assured, “that’s a *promise*.”
“You rotten son of a bitch!” Marlena seethed, as she descended the stairs, and walked within an arms length of Roman. “You go out and screw anything that stands up or lays down long enough and you have the balls to stand here and tell me you’re going to take my children away cause of one innocent kiss? Let me tell you something you lousy bastard, *I* am the one with the ace in the hole. I am the one who can get on television tomorrow and tell all of Illinois what a womanizing jack ass you are. So you can talk, and promise, and threaten all you want. But I will sell you out, and ruin your career before you even *try* to take my kids away from me, capisce?”
“You talk a good game, Marlena.” Roman laughed, as he undid his tie. “Maybe you should get in politics.”
“No Roman, talking your game. Taking *care* of business is mine. I don’t have to call in favors to get the job done.”
“You don’t call in favors?” He asked as he licked his lips, “You’re gonna stand there and tell me you don’t call your loverboy Black over to get the *job* done?”
Marlena gasped in shock at his last, arrogant comment. He’d always walked a thin line when it came to her, but this time, he’d gone too far. Raising her hand, she swung it fiercely and swiftly across his face, much to the shock of Roman.
“Go to hell!”
She seethed, as she watched him turn his face back into her direction, and then suddenly felt his hands grasping her arms, and pinning her up against the wall.
“You listen to me you little bitch! I made you! I put you through medical school, I bought you the dress you have on, it’s accessories, and that rock on your finger. And believe me, I can take it back just as easily.”
“Look at you,” She laughed ironically, as tears streamed down her trembling face. “You manhandling low life scum. You talk to your wife like a pimp, and there isn’t one woman in this world you don’t treat like a whore. You want the world to see you as a good husband, father, an honorable man. But you’re not any of that. You don’t even come close. Those men that go to work all day, and then come home and spend time with their children, take their wives to bed. *Those* are real men. Not you. You don’t even deserve to represent them because you will *never* be them!”
“You had a choice,” He painfully reminder her, “you didn’t have to pick me.”
“You’re right,” she said, as she sobbed. “I used to be as naive as the voters, my brain kicked in too late. Like them, I feel in love with the fantasy Roman, only to be slapped in the face by the reality.”
“This is me babe,” Roman noted, as he let go of her arms, and stepped back. “If you don’t like it, your free to go……*after* I make it to Pennsylvania Avenue.”
Slipping on his jacket, Roman walked out and slammed the door behind him, as a distraught Marlena sunk to the floor, crying and sobbing hysterically. Her prince had just turned back into a frog, and what was supposed to have been happily ever after had just become a dream shattered, and a love lost.
Chapter 10: Pt. 1- Auld Lang Syne
“Here’s to the New Year,” Roman Brady toasted, as the clock counted down the final minutes of 2001. “May 2002 be a year of peace, unity, love, friendship, but most of all, may it be the year I make my way to the Senate!”
“Hear, hear!” His supporters roared throughout the room, lifting their flutes of champagne in celebration.
All of them were anticipating a glorious victory for the Congressman fighting for a Senate seat. All of them holding on to the hope that their issues would make it to the Hill thanks to this politician who’d put them on their team, and made them believe he was going to get their voices heard. All of them had faith in the man who vowed not to let them down, all of them except for the person who should’ve believed in him the most, she was the one who adored him the least.
“Dear God, please make 2002 the last year I have to put up with this crap,” Marlena pleaded, as she sipped her champagne, and continued her way across the crowded room.
“Happy New Year, Marlena.” A soft voice whispered, as she felt an arm tap her on the shoulder, and her breath catch in her throat.
“John..” She gasped before she even turned to face the man who’d just spoken to her. “I didn’t expect to see you here.”
“Well, I wasn’t going to come.” He began, as he watched her turn to face him, tears building up slightly in her toasted hazel orbs. “Then I thought to myself, I couldn’t start my new year without making things right with you. So, here I am, dressed to the nines, and aching for you from afar.”
“Ha,” she laughed ironically, and she sniffled back her tears. “don’t I know that feeling. But we can’t be together yet, John. Not like this, not in these circumstances. It isn’t right.”
“But it’s right for him to flaunt his women all over town?” He asked angrily, “It’s okay for him to screw anything that walks, but for you to fall in love once, with a man who wants to treat you and love you the way you deserve to be treated and loved is wrong? That’s what I hate about this game of politics, Marlena. It’s one big double standard. Fat cats like Roman get away with whatever the hell they want, but the people like us, who always do the right thing otherwise, get hurt for something that truly is pure and innocent.”
“He threatened my children, John.” She sobbed as she gazed into his fiery blue eyes, “I can’t risk them. As hard as it is for me, I have to do this for them. Believe me, I hate this as much as you do. I go to bed every night dreaming of what it would be like to kiss you again. To taste your sweet lips on mine, while you run your fingers through my hair and tell me you love me. I dream of what it would be like to…”
She stopped mid-sentence, fearing she was about to take this conversation too far.
“What it would be like to *what*, Marlena?” John asked curiously, as he pressed his luck and took a step closer to her shivering body.
“To have you make love to me. To feel you next to me, our bodies together, nothing between us. Just you and me shutting out the world, shutting out everything except our love,” She admitted painfully, as tears slowly streamed her cheeks, “Oh God, I can’t believe I am saying this!”
“Because it’s the truth,” he whispered, “the truth is never wrong, Marlena. I know how you feel, what you think, what you dream, because I feel the same way. I lie away at night and I just stare at my empty bed, and all I can picture is you and me….together. I see you looking as beautiful as ever, lying there, telling me you love me, not holding back. I fantasize about the way I’d worship you if you’d just let me. I’d make you feel loved, I’d make you happy. And although it may just be a dream for us now, Marlena, I am going to make you a promise. Whenever you’re ready, I’ll make both our dreams come true. When you’re ready to take the chance, you come to me, and I’ll be waiting. And I promise, once you let me have my way with you, there will be *no* regrets, no reservations. I am gonna show you the love of a real man, Marlena. It may not be tomorrow, it may not be next week, it may not be for a few months or longer, but when you’re ready, I *will* be waiting.”
“There you are!” Hope Williams-Brady exlaimed, interrupting the tension filled moment between John and Marlena, “The ball’s about to drop, and Roman is waiting for you,
Honey! Let’s go!”
“Wait-”
Marlena tried to protest, but to no avail, she was dragged across the room from the man she loved, to the man she despised more than anything else in the world.
***********************************
“5,4,3,2,….1! Happy New Year!”
The room cheered, as couples hugged and kiss happily in celebration of a fresh start, another chance to start over and make up for the mistakes of the previous 365 days. In a one swift move, Roman Brady pulled his estranged wife towards his body, whispering a rehearsed and practiced ‘happy new year’, he topped it off with an equally staged kiss, which shocked not only Marlena, but her tall, dark and handsome suitor, who watched in pain from afar.
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And auld lang syne?
“That should make the cover of the Tribune tomorrow,” Roman winked proudly to his wife.
“I hate you,” she seethed, as she tried to inconspicuously wipe her mouth from his kiss. “How dare you use being affectionate with me as some ploy to win votes! I am not your ticket to the Senate, Roman! Don’t treat me as though I were!
“Ya know, those kids sure do love you.” He reminded slyly, “it would be such a shame to take them from their Momma for the outing of her torrid affair with John Black.”
“Don’t you *dare* threaten my children!” She warned. “I told you before, I will *not* stand for that!”
“As long as you keep my little secret, I’ll keep yours.” He assured her with a wicked grin. “But I don’t think we have to worry about yours tonight. Looks like lover boy wasn’t too pleased with the lip lock between the Soon to be Senator and his wife.”
“What?”
Marlena asked blankly as her eyes scanned the room for some indication of what he was trying to insinuate. Her questioned was answered as she took notice to the front door, and John Black exiting swiftly.
“Oh God,” she sighed, as she closed her eyes in disbelief. “*What* have I done.”
For auld lang syne, my dear,
For auld lang syne,
We’ll take a cup of kindness yet,
For auld lang syne!
Chapter 10: Pt. 2- Show Me Heaven
“No Frank?”
Marlena called out as she shut the lounge door behind her, watching John attentively from across the abandoned room.
“Not tonight,” He shrugged, as he ran his fingers aimlessly across the piano. “No inspiration, no feeling.”
“I thought there was always room for Frank.” She teased, trying desperately to break the tension that surrounded them.
“That doesn’t apply when you have no feeling.” He answered sadly as he undid his tie, “When you’re numb inside.”
“John..” she whispered as tears poured from her eyes, “I’m so sor-”
“I wanted to kill him,” He interrupted, as he sat up on the bench, and stared into space, “when I saw him press his lips to yours, I could’ve strangled him. I don’t know if it was because I was jealous, or because I knew he was just using you as a ploy to get elected. All I know was, I would’ve gone crazy if I had to look at that for another *second*, watching as the room cheered you two on, with me standing there, *dying* inside because I love you so much. Cause I want to be the only man to ever touch you. It was on the way over here that I thought, I really have no right to feel that way, after all, he is your husband, right? And me, I’m just the other man that turned your life upside down.”
“Don’t you *dare* say that!” Marlena yelled, as she set her purse down on the bar, and walked towards him.
“You’re not some other man! This isn’t a Harlequin romance, John! What we have isn’t dirty or wrong. What we have is *so* right, it’s just everything surrounding it is *so* wrong. I love you, and I’m not going to be sorry for that. The only thing I am sorry for is being stuck in that shit hole of a marriage I have, and being forced to stay there for my children. That is the *only* reason I am still there. And the reason I came here tonight is because I am tired of sacrificing for everyone else! I’m so *sick* and *tired* of doing things to help Roman, I can’t take it anymore. When I saw you leave tonight, I was afraid I’d lost you forever. The first chance I got, I left that party, and I followed my heart. This is where I wound up, this is where I belong, and God knows this is *where* I want to *be*.”
Marlena assured him, as she continued to weep, and walked within an arms reach, as she poured her heart out to the man she’d fallen so passionately and profoundly in love with.
“So now what do we do?” John asked curiously, unsure just where this conversation was heading.
“Whatever we want,” she whispered, as she gently dabbed the tears from her eyes, and reached to touch his hand. “As long as we do it together.”
There you go, flashing fever from your eyes.
Hey baby, come over here and shove down tight.
I’m not denying, We’re flying above it all.
Hold my hand, don’t let me fall.
You’ve such amazing grace.
I’ve never felt this way.
“You don’t know how good it makes me feel to hear you say that,” he smiled, as he reached his hands to either side of her face.
“I just want you to make one promise,” she pleaded.
“Anything.” He said without hesitation.
“If I fall, you’ll catch me.” She sobbed, as she stared deeply into his alluring blue eyes.
“You don’t have to worry about falling,” he promised, as he reached down and took her into his strong arms. “wherever we go, I’ll carry you.”
Oh, show me heaven
Cover me, Leave me breathless
Oh, show me heaven please.
“And are you gonna keep your other promise?” She asked seductively as she licked her lips, and he set her down carefully atop the piano.
“Which was what?” He asked as he arched his eyebrow in intrigue.
“Make all my dreams come true…” she whispered, as she lightly brushed her lips across his, and nuzzled his neck.
“I’m gonna do more than just make your dreams come true,” he vowed, as he slowly unzipped her dress, and inched her back on the piano. “I’m going to take you places you’ve never imagined.”
With that, he moved himself over her, watching as her body shivered in delight from his touch, his hands roaming sensually along her legs. Slowly, he placed his lips over her, waiting for a response. She caught on quickly, as she placed her hands on either side of his face, and kissed him back with equal passion and hunger, as the two eagerly began to consummate the forbidden love they’d held in for so long.
Here I go, I’m shaking just like the breeze
Hey baby, I need your hand to steady me.
I’m not denying, I’m frightened as much as you.
Though I’m barely touching you,
I’ve shivers down my spine
And it feels divine.
Impatiently attempting to undo buttons of his shirt, Marlena decided to take initiative, ripping it off of his perfectly sculpted chest in one, quick, tug.
“Hey,” he laughed, as he broke away from their kiss, and looked into her amber eyes, which were ablaze with fire. “I’m not going anywhere, you don’t have to rush.” He assured, as he smiled, and then moved his task down to devouring her neck.
Oh, show me heaven
Cover me, Leave me breathless
Oh, show me heaven please.
“I love you so much,” she sighed as she closed her eyes in ecstasy, as he slowly inched her dress from her body, and tossed it onto the floor, leaving her there clad in only a lacy bra and panties. “I don’t mean to be so damn impatient, but I think we’ve waited long enough.”
“I think you’re right,” he winked, as he moved his hand to caress her cheek, and then slowly ran his hand down the length of body. “But no more waiting now, Marlena. Tonight it’s just you, and me. Not even Frank can interrupt us tonight.”
“From you,” she laughed, as she lifted herself up, and place a lingering kiss on his lips. “I’ll take that as a compliment.”
“Good,” he grinned, as he glanced over her body, then proceeded to pick up where he’d left off. “now, where was I….”
If you know what its like to dream a dream,
Baby hold me tight and let this be all.
“Look at me,” John asked as he ran his fingers through her golden hair.
“Why did you stop?” She asked confused, as she looked at him with disappointment.
“I just wanted to see your face. I want to remember exactly what you look like at this moment, and I never want to forget it.”
“What do you see?”
“I see the most gorgeous creature in the world staring back at me, waiting for me to make love to her, with as much passion and desire as I have.”
“Then don’t keep her waiting.” She smirked, as she took his face in her hands, and kissed him feverishly.
Pulling her towards him, John slowly began to make love to his earth angel, as the two shut out the whole world, and nothing else at that moment mattered except what they shared. Nothing could interrupt their trip to heaven, but things weren’t going to be quite so incredible when they made it back down to earth.
Oh, show me heaven
Cover me, Leave me breathless
Oh, show me heaven please.
Chapter 11- For Better or For Worse
“Dear Marlena,
Leaving Chi-town and coming back to Washington to help out the President has made life miserable. All I think about is you. The way you smell so heavenly, the way your smile lights up my heart, and the way you look at me with those captivating hazel eyes. Falling in love with you may not have made my life easier, but it sure has made me a better man. I can’t wait to see you again on Valentine’s Day, so we can pick up where we left off with the little mishap on the piano.
I love you, forever and always,
John
PS- Did Roman get the bill yet?”
Laughing to herself, Marlena gushed over the heartfelt letter, and made herself comfortable on the sofa.
“What the hell is this?” Roman Brady asked angrily, as he stormed into the living room.
“What the hell is what?” Marlena replied as she rolled her eyes.
“This! I owe 10,000 dollars to the Syberis Hotel for a goddamn grand piano! What the hell was John Black doing there that he broke a damn piano! Christ, the things I do for spin control! I don’t know what has cost me more money in the last few weeks, this or your friggin’ chiropractor-……..oh my *God*!”
Roman gawked, as he realized what was going on.
“You and that son of a bitch did it on a hotel piano? Not only that, but you broke it, and hurt your back in the process!”
“You’re crazy!” She yelled.
“And you’re kinky.” He grinned wickedly, “ya know Mar, if ya’d been that frisky with me, I wouldn’t have needed all of those other women over the years.”
“Drop dead you rotten bastard,” Marlena seethed as she got up from the sofa, and headed for the stairs.
“Truth hurts, doesn’t it, Sweetheart?” He instigated, as he walked into the foyer.
“You’re right, Roman.” She nodded as she turned back around to face him, the truth *does* hurt. Which is why it pains me to say, it was nice being with a mans who didn’t need a bottle of viagra to get it up and satisfy.”
“Ouch, you’ve gotten witty now that you’re getting laid again. Nice to see it brought back your sense of humor.” Roman sneered
“A lot of things have been brought back thanks to John.” She winked, “Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m gonna go low down. My back still hurts a little, but let me tell you, it was worth *all* the pain.”
“Is it gonna be worth Eric, Sami, and Carrie?”
“We’re back to this again?” She asked angrily.
“Don’t worry, I won’t cut off your little rendezvous with Johnny Boy, God knows your a lot easier to deal with when you’re getting some. But, if your affair gets anywhere passed the three of us, and leaked to the press, you can say good-bye to those precious kids. Cause I’ve even got the piano bill to prove what a cheap slut you are.”
“I’m a slut, huh?” She asked him with contempt, “You’re gonna expose me for the rotten I did? Tell me Roman, does the name, Anna Thompson ring a bell?”
“You don’t have the guts to bring her up, you love Carrie too much.”
“You’re right,” she agreed, “I do love Carrie too much, but I *loathe* you. So if you want to bring this mockery we call a marriage to an all out brawl of a custody battle, don’t think I won’t bring the truth about our oldest daughter out into the open, Roman. I will tell whatever judge you put us up against how you took advantage of some poor, helpless 17 year old girl the year after we got married, and got her pregnant. I will tell them how you paid her off the disappear to Europe, and make us raise the child as our own. I will tell him how I was forced to stay in the house for 9 months, because God forbid they’d see I wasn’t pregnant. I stayed away from the public to suit you, to hide your scandal, and I raised a daughter you had out of wedlock because I mistook the pity I felt for you as love.”
“You wouldn’t dare,” he laughed, “because the truth is, you do love me unconditionally, you loved me enough to stay, to raise Carrie as your own.”
“No! I was afraid to leave you! I was young, I was naive, and I would *not* let my family know that I failed in my choice of a husband. They were so proud of you. They thought you were just great. The ‘perfect male specimen’. Ha, if they’d only known what a rotten bastard you were, and still are. If only I’d known John then, I could’ve gotten out of this hell *long* ago.”
“This doesn’t have to be difficult, Marlena. You can have your kids, Carrie included and John, behind close doors you can have it all. But when we’re out in public, you’re my happy and devoted wife, understand?”
“The *only* thing I understand with you is,” she began, as her voice talk on a firm tone. “Everything is about ‘Roman’. That’s why you couldn’t be loyal to me, or any other woman in your life for that matter. It’s cause you’re to goddamn selfish to devote yourself to anything but *you*. That’s why you made a horrible husband, a deadbeat dad, and that’s why you will never be *half* the politician Tom Horton is. You don’t give a shit about those citizens, you don’t care about their welfare like he does, all you care about is getting ahead, and getting power. You will never be a great Senator or President for the simple fact that you don’t take pride in the achievements of this country, you take pride in your pathetic, selfish, arrogant *self*.”
“Hey Babe, this is me!”
He shot back, as he threw his arms in the air.
“I might be a cold-hearted jack ass who only cares about himself, but that’s how I got ahead in this world. And I’m sorry, but you walked into this willingly, Sweetheart. You’re the one who vowed to be with me ‘for better or for worse’. Sorry if this has been the latter for you, but that’s tough, Honey. I am gonna be Senator, and you’re gonna be there when I win on election night, and when I get sworn in on January 3, 2003. You’re gonna pretend you love every mother f***ing minute of it, and if you don’t, you can kiss John Black and those little brats good-bye, understand?”
“Who would’ve thought even you could sink this low,” Marlena sighed, as tears began to fall from her eyes. “You may have the upperhand now, but you can be damn sure that in the end, when all the cards are on the table, and there’s no more aces in the hole, *I’m* gonna be the biggest winner, and you, you won’t even know what *hit* you!”
Storming up the stairs, Marlena left Roman behind to think twice about his actions, and decide how to stay on the path of success, before she sent him over the cliff of failure.
Chapter 12- Promises Made
“Hey, the brace is off.”
Carrie smiled, as Marlena walked through the front door, and set down her purse, having just had a refreshing appointment with her chiropractor, followed by an invigorating visit to her masseur.
“Hi Sweetheart.” Marlena beamed, as she walked into the living room, and sat herself beside her daughter on the sofa. “Yes, the brace is finally if off, and I feel like a million dollars.
“I’m glad,” She replied, as she set her textbook down on the coffee table, and brushed a few stray hairs from her face. “I know you were in a lot of pain, and I am just happy it doesn’t hurt anymore, but Mom, can I just ask *how* injured yourself on a piano? Did the lid come crashing down on you or something?”
“No…no,” Marlena said nervously, “it wasn’t the *lid* crashing down on me, I just got a little caught up for a second, and I fell, and managed to damage the piano along with myself, no big deal. Besides, I am all better now and that is what matters, right?”
“Right,” Carrie said with a nod, not completely satisfied with her Mom’s answer.
“Good,” Marlena winked, as she made herself more comfortable. “So how are things going with you?”
“Fine, I got an ‘A’ on my Math test today.”
“Oh Sweetie, I am so proud of you! I know you studied hard for that.” Marlena said excitedly, as he leaned in and kissed Carrie’s cheek lightly.
“Yea, I was happy about it earlier, too.” She replied sadly, as she dropped her head, avoiding contact with Marlena.
“Uh oh,” She said worriedly, “why aren’t you happy *now*?”
“Because I rushed home from school early today, I had study hall last period, and I was so excited to tell you and Dad the good news.”
She began in a shaky voice, as tears formed in her bright eyes.
“And as I was turning around the corner, I saw Daddy on the front step, with another woman. She had blonde hair and they were laughing and smiling, I thought she was you. When I got closer, they started to kiss, and I started to realize the woman in my Dad’s arms wasn’t my Mom, it was his secretary.”
“Oh Dear God,” Marlena yelped, as she herself began to cry, closing her eyes in disbelief.
“I knew Daddy was cheating,” She sniffed as she proceeded to tell her story, “I’ve heard you two fighting about it for months now, I didn’t want to believe it….but I guess seeing it with my own eyes made it real.”
“Oh baby,” Marlena consoled, as she pulled the trembling twelve year old into her arms, and rocked her to and fro. “I am so sorry you had to see that, I’m so sorry. I should’ve been more careful, dammit, I should’ve been more firm with him, and now look what he did! He hurt you, he allowed you to see that, and he upset you so. Oh Carrie, I am so sorry I wasn’t here for you earlier, I’m so sorry, baby.”
“This isn’t your fault, Mommy.” The young girl reassured, as she pulled back, and wiped her tears. “Daddy did this, he hurt you and he hurt me, and I am just glad he didn’t hurt Eric or Sami. I know you would never do anything like that to me, Mom. You’d never be on our front step with another man, making out and laughing. But ya know what, now that I know what my Father truly is, I wish you would. I wish you would find a man who could make you happy and make you smile, the way that blonde was smiling with Dad. You deserve so much better than him, and I hope you find it, then you can leave him before he causes anymore pain.”
“Oh Honey,” Marlena smiled through her tears, as she lovingly embraced her supportive daughter.
“You’re so amazing, you’ve handled such a horrid situation so well, and I am proud of you. And believe me Sweetie, the first chance we get to leave this place and get on with our lives, we will take it, I promise you that.” Marlena vowed with assurance. “I *promise*.”
***************************************
“Hello?”
“How’s your back?”
John teased from the other end of the line, as Marlena smiled at the sound of voice.
“According to Dr. Coleman, I’m as good as new.” She replied with excitement, as sat back on her bed.
“Umm, that’s good to hear, cause I have a little proposition for you.” He enticed.
“Ohhh, I like the sound of that.” She grinned, “what do you have in mind, Sailor?”
“How does this sound. You, me, a suite at the Syberis, Frank in the background, us dancing as the champagne chills, then after a few drinks and a nice meal, I carry you off to bed, and pick up where we left off on the piano.”
“That sounds like heaven.” She sighed as she inhaled deeply, the picture of his proposal playing in her mind. “But, I don’t think I could handle another month of a bad back.”
“Well, how about we lay off the musical instruments for a while, and stick to a night unbridled passion on a nice, soft, king size bed? It’s soft, it’s spacious, and I promise when I get done with you, your back will feel better than ever.” He licked his lips, as he anticipated her response.
“Mmm,” she smiled, “I think this is going to be the first time I’ve looked forward to Valentine’s Day is *years*.”
“So I’ll take that as I yes?” He asked eagerly.”
“Yep.” She agreed in a soft tone.
“Hey, you don’t seem too enthused with that answer,” He questioned worriedly,
“everything okay, baby?”
“Well, I’m fine, but Carrie had a very rough day, courtesy of Roman.”
“What did the bastard do now?” He asked in disgust.
“Sucked face with his secretary on our front step while she was coming home school. She told me that she’d heard us fighting about his infidelity, but it didn’t truly hit her until she saw it.”
“Poor kid,” John shook his head and sighed, “gotta be tough on her, and on you.”
“Actually, she took it rather well. Even informed me that she’d prefer I’d move on with my life, starting by leaving Roman.”
“Oh really?”
“Really, she even said I should find a loving, supportive, man who could make me smile the way she saw Karen smile with her Dad today.”
“Hmm, I think I could be of assistance.” John smirked.
“I know you could. After all, you’re what gets me through this whole mess. Knowing I have you and the kids when everything else falls apart. I can’t tell you how good it feels to have that stability, John. I love you so much, and I can’t wait until we’re together for good, not just a few stolen moments.”
“I know, baby, I know.” He whispered, “and we *will* be together, you can be sure of that. You and me, and your children, and hopefully *our* children. I want more than anything for us to make a family, and the first chance I get, I am going to do just that. Until then, we’ll have to settle for some *stolen moments*.”
“I’m not complaining.” She grinned, “just wish it could be more.”
“All in good time my dear,” he assured, “but until then, I am going to make Valentine’s Day into something we’ll *never* forget.”
Chapter 13- Promises Broken
Her body writhed in pleasure, underneath the soft touch of his roaming hands. It felt so good to be together, free from the chaos, free from everything, except each other.
His lips explored her body. Moving from her mouth, to her neck, her chest, and further. It felt so good to be with him again, New Year’s Eve had seemed like a lifetime ago. Then again in Washington, weeks were months, and months were years. But tonight, that didn’t matter, tonight was about one thing and one thing only….their forbidden love.
“I love you,” his hot breath tickled against her neck, as he reached for her hand, gripping it tightly, making love to her with urgency, and complete and utter passion.
“I love you…”
She replied in a raspy voice, scraping the nails of her free hand into his muscular back. She felt his face bury in her neck, calling her name, and whispering words of love as they lost themselves in a private paradise, which would only serve as a temporary fix from the harsh truth that was reality.
************************************
“Brady here,” Roman’s husky voice called, as he took a sip of his vodka, and reclined in his chair.
“Hey there! How’s my favorite client?”
“Peter Blake, you rotten SOB.” Roman laughed at the sound of his PR’s voice. “Thanks for that nice piece in the post, you will be rewarded when I recommend you as Ambassador to Austria.”
“You know I’m a sucker for those autumns in Vienna.” He laughed, “but, that isn’t why I called. I happen to have a little Valentine’s Day gift for you, Brady Ol’ boy.”
“And what might that be?” He asked with intrigue.
“You and the Missus have been scheduled for The Capitol Debate with Daniel Scot on March 25. Consider it my campaign contribution.”
“You’re shittin’ me!” He replied with dibelief. “That’s one of the biggest political shows out there, he could get whoever the hell he wants!”
“He wants *you*,” Peter informed.
“Why the hell does he want me?”
“Because,” he paused, “he wants to expose you for the lying bastard you are, and make public your wife’s affair with John Black.”
**********************************
“Wait here,” John said as he reached for his black silk boxers from the floor, and scurried from the bedroom.
‘Where’s he going?’ Marlena thought to herself, as she lifted the satin sheets above her chest, and moved up to sit against the head board of the bed. As quickly as he’d left, John returned, carrying a small gift wrapped box, and a single red rose, as he walked towards Marlena, and knelt beside her.
“Happy Valentine’s Day,” He smiled brightly, offering her the small present.
“Oh John,” She sighed, touched by his heartfelt gesture. “I didn’t get you anything…”
“I have you,” he winked, placing a tender kiss on her forehead, “that’s all I need.”
Beaming back at him, she slowly unwrapped her gift, to a shining, breathtaking jewelry box made of gold. The design wasn’t extravagant, but it was plain, simple, and elegant. And inscribed upon the lid were the lyrics that had become so true to life for the love John and Marlena shared:
“Lovers at first sight, in love forever.” She wept, as she read aloud.
“Open it up,” He instructed.
Obliging to his request, Marlena slowly opened the box, and to the melody of ‘Strangers in the Night’.
“Frank says it all, doesn’t he?” She giggled.
“I wouldn’t have it any other way.” He grinned back, as he got up to sit beside her on the bed, and pressed his lips to hers. “I love you,”
“I love you, too.”
**********************************
“Who the f*ck is the leak?” Roman demanded, as he went to his study to question his workers.
“What are you talking about?” Abe asked confused, as he sipped his coffee, and looked back over his files.
“I am talking about how Peter Blake just called to inform one of the biggest political journalists in the country knows about my wife and John Black.”
“Shit!” Abe yelled, slamming down his cup, and jolting to his feet. “Your wife is screwing the spin control, and reading that on the front page of the Post is not going to make my f*cking job easier!”
“Hey, this is about me, Pal!” Roman yelled in frustration. “My ass is on the line, I am the one who is gonna pay, and I wanna know who the hell told the secret that could bring us all down!”
“Bill Horton,” A soft voice called out from the back of the room.
“Who said that?”
“I did,” Austin Reed said, as he slowly stood to his feet.
“How do you know?”
“Because,” He replied squeamishly, “the forgotten son of the Pres is bitter, and decided it was time to kick em where it counts.”
*************************************
“What do you want?” Tom Horton’s groggy voice called, extremely upset that Roman, he’s least favorite person had woken him up at midnight, when he was schedule for brunch with the Prime Minister of Israel at seven sharp.
“Your son William has been a naughty boy, Mr. President.”
“What are you blabbering about, Brady.” He said rolling his eyes, and reaching to his night stand for a glass of water.
“He wants to report to some media moguls that my wife is boinking your spin control man. And, as ridiculous as it sounds, it’s true.”
“Christ!” Tom exclaimed with anger, as he sat up in bed. “How the hell do you turn stuff around to the opposition when they’re in the same boat you are, and your spin control is sleeping with the enemy?”
“You promised to get me to the Senate, Tommy boy. He’s your guy, your mess, you gotta help clean it up!”
“Sorry Roman,” he said shaking his head. “When my job’s in jeopardy, all bets are off.
With that, Roman heard the click of the received on the other line.
“Dammit!”
************************************
“I wish we could stay here forever,” Marlena sighed contentedly, as she nestled herself in John’s arms.
“Soon,” he whispered with assurance, “soon.”
“Not soon enough,” She smiled, and turned to face him, only to be interrupted by the ringing of the phone.
“Who the hell could be calling here?” John wondered, reaching for the cordless. “Hello?”
“Hey lover boy,” Roman’s snarky voiced chimed from the other end. “Get you and my wife dressed, we have some business to discuss.”
“Can’t this wait?”
“Not when you have a five in the morning flight to Venice waiting.”
“What?” John replied in shock, as Marlena watched on in confusion.
“Your little secret’s almost out, and until we can clear things up, you’re gonna be as far away from my wife as possible.”
“You rotten-” John mumbled.
“Well, glad you agree,” he smiled proudly, “arrivederci, baby!”
Chapter 14: Pt. 1- Unexpected Surprises
“My Dearest Marlena,
He may have sent me to Italy to be away from you, but he can never take the love from my heart. I miss you so much. I miss the scent of you, when I nuzzle your neck, I miss the soft texture of your hair, when I brush it from your face. I miss the warmth of your body, as we cuddle together in afterglow. I miss everything about you, and it’s killing me inside. I face each day as a day closer to seeing you once more, and of finally being together.
Soon my darling, this nightmare will be over, and our fairy tale will begin.
I love you, always,
Your knight in shining armor,
John”.
“Oh God, John. You don’t know *how* much I need you right now.”
Marlena sighed to herself as she read the heartfelt letter, and leaned against the cold tile of her bathroom. Three minutes seemed like eternity, reading and re-reading the letter, pacing to and fro in at an anxious pace. Her heart was racing, and the beeping of her watch did not serve as any help to calming her nerves.
“Oh my,” she squealed, placing her on her chest, and heaved a collective sigh of relief. “It’s just your watch, Marlena. A bomb is not going to explode.
She tried to remind herself, as she slowly inched towards the bathroom counter, and lifted up the small, white, contraption.
Inhaling deeply, she closed her eyes, and then, brought it into view.
“I spoke too soon,” She laughed ironically, as she stared blankly on the blue line which signified a whole new obstacle in her torrid love affair with her husband’s, the womanizing politician’s, spin control director. “A bomb is going to go off…….in approximately eight months.”
********************************************
“Where the hell have you been?”
Roman demanded to know, as his wife rushed onto the set of the Capitol Debate, something clearly upsetting her, but not half as much as her tardiness was upsetting her impatient husband.
“We need to talk.” She insisted, as she took off her coat, and put down her purse.
“*We* need to get out there and play happy married couple for America, Sweetheart! So get your ass, which I hope still isn’t sore when your little piano concerto with Mr. Black, out on that set, put on your biggest and brightest smile, and make like Carol f*cking Brady, understand?”
“You know, you shouldn’t talk to woman who could make or break your future like that, Roman. Especially in my *condition* and all.”
“What the hell are you talking about now?”
“I’m pregnant, Roman.” She said softly, as she bowed her head, tears flooding her saddened hazel orbs.
“Pregnant?”
He repeated in disbelief, as an overwhelming sense of wrath began to take over his entire body.
“You little whore,” he seethed, just above a whisper. “Not only do you break a piano in your tactless affair with John Black, you manage to get yourself knocked up.”
“Go to hell you hypocritical bastard!” she shot back, with a fierce slap across his hateful face.
“Guess I will see you there,” he smirked devilishly, as he ran his hand over his throbbing cheek. “Breaking the commandments and all, ‘thou shalt not commit adultery’, and poor Johnny boy, he broke two. ‘Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s wife.”
“Then I guess you’ll be burning in hell for more than one eternity, if that’s the case.”
“The afterlife is not important right now,” He said coldly, as he ran his fingers through his hair, and turned to glance in the nearest mirror. “What’s important right now this talk show, and me becoming Senator. So when we go out there, you’re going to agree with *every* word I say, understand?”
“What are you up to?” She wondered quizzically.
“I said,” he repeated in a more firm tone, “do you *understand*?”
Glaring at him with pure hatred, Marlena nodded. It was at that moment she’d realized, she was making a deal with the devil, and now, there was *no* turning back.
*********************************************
“Here you are Mr. Black, we were able to get that American program for you that you’d requested.”
“Grazie, Angelo.” He nodded with appreciation, as he tipped the accommodating bell boy, and walked him to the door.
**********************************************
“For those of you just joining us, my guests tonight are just making there way into the center ring of the political arena. He’s a powerful Congressman with his eye on the Senate, and she’s his active and supportive wife, who is serving as his rock along this bumpy road. They are Congressman Roman Brady, and his lovely wife, Dr. Marlena Evans-Brady.”
The seemingly happy couple smiled nervously, as the fidgeted in their seats, knowing every word they spoke, and every move they made could make or break a vote from the American public.
“Now, we don’t have much time left, but there is *one* important question I have to ask before we sign off tonight.”
Daniel Scot smiled confidently, as the estranged couple seated beside him became more and more nervous.
“Ask away, we’re an open book.” Roman encouraged with poise.
“All right, but don’t say I didn’t warn you.” He winked. “How do you feel about the alleged accusation of your Dr. Evans’ affair with John Black?”
********************************************
“Oh shit! “I can’t believe that assh*le is letting Marlena go through this! ” John yelled, as he slammed his glass of vodka down on the coffee table. “Please God, give her the strength to get through this, please.”
*********************************************
“God give me strength,” Marlena prayed silently to herself, as she felt her heart sinking in her chest.
“I think that is absurd, especially with the news Marlena and I just received.”
“News?” Daniel Scot questioned.
**********************************************
“What the hell does he have up his sleeve now?” John wondered curiously.
***********************************************
“Roman….” She whispered frantically, “I don’t think this is the time or the place to announce this.”
“Nonsense, this is the perfect place to announce it, Honey.” He insisted, as he shot her a warning glance.
“Well, what is it Congressman? You have the whole country in suspense, it isn’t fair to leave us hanging.”
“Never let it be said that I’m not a fair man,”
Roman grinned, sitting up in his seat, as Marlena simultaneously sank down in hers.
“Daniel, the Capitol Debate gang, and the American electorate, it gives me great pleasure to announce to you, all of your wonderfully supportive people, that my wife and I are going to have a baby!”
Chapter 14: Pt. 2- Aftershock
“Well, congratulations to you both!” Daniel Scot exclaimed, “That’s all the time we have for the Capitol Debate tonight, join us tomorrow with our guests Senator Lucas Roberts of Arizona, and Senator Greta Von Amburg of Vermont. Until then, this is Daniel Scot signing off.”
“Well, I think that went well.” Roman grinned, as the ‘on air’ light shut off, and he quickly removed his microphone, “don’t you?”
“Drop dead you heartless bastard!” Marlena cried, and tears streamed down her agonizing face.
“Dammit, don’t start this now, Marlena! They can hear you!”
“I don’t give a *shit* what they can hear, Roman! You just ruined the best thing that has happened to me in a *long* time. I am going to have a child with a man I actually love, and who loves me more than he loves himself, unlike *you*. Not only that, but you took away my right to tell John that he was going to be a father, and for that alone I can *never* forgive you! But the fact that you sunk so low as to *lie* to America that this baby is yours, you’ve crossed a whole new line of arrogance and ignorance that I don’t even want to think about!”
“Oh cry me a river,” he said rolling his eyes, “I saved your career and his pretending to be a Father to your illegitimate child, babe.”
“You did this to save your ass Roman, so please, save the selfless bullshit to someone who doesn’t know what a manipulative son of a b*tch you are.” Marlena seethed, as she gathered her belongings, and stormed off the set.
“Oh that’s right, go run to the proud Papa to be. I’ll be sure to send him a box of Cuba’s finest cigars along with a note of appreciation. Banging you on that piano and getting you pregnant is gonna do *wonders* for my campaign!”
“Just when I think I couldn’t hate you *anymore*, you open your big f*cking mouth and prove me wrong.”
“I try,” he winked.
“Too bad this isn’t an election for Assh*le of the year,” Marlena wept, “you’d win that by a landslide.”
**************************************
“Hello?”
“Oh God! You finally picked up!” Marlena exclaimed with relief, “I’ve been trying to call you all day, and I didn’t want to leave a message at the front desk, it was too important-”
“Oh, you didn’t want to leave a message, huh? Wasn’t personal enough? Tell me, Marlena, was Roman claiming my baby as his home to the whole g*ddamn nation supposed to be a pleasant surprise for me?”
“No! John, no! I had *no* idea he was going to do that, I swear I didn’t.” She pleaded to him, as tears poured down her angelic cheeks.
“Oh, I believe you didn’t know. What I don’t believe is that you told that no good low life before you f*cking told me!”
“John please, it wasn’t supposed to be this way. He made me angry, so I told him to spite him, to make him feel like shit, the same as he does to me. I never did it with any attention of hurting you, I could *never* hurt you.” She sobbed, “Please don’t be angry, it’s hard enough going through this with you on another continent as it is. There’s nothing more I want in this world but to be a family with you, Sami, Eric, Carrie and our baby, and now I afraid that Roman may have cost me that dream.”
“I still want that, too, Marlena. God, I love you so much. That’s why it almost killed me to hear that coming from Roman’s lips. Telling the world you were going to have his baby, knowing it was mine. Dammit Marlena, I was jealous! I want to be able to tell the world how much I love you and the life we created together. Now, that bastard not only keeps us apart, but he takes the joy of becoming a father away from me, too.”
“John, no matter what he says or does, this is your baby, this is *our* baby. We’re in this together. And please don’t think that me telling him first had *anything* to do with me not loving you. It was because I panicked, I was scared, and I….and I.-.” She sobbed loudly, barely able to finish her sentence. “I didn’t have you to lean on for strength, and I am so sorry, John. I am *so* sorry.”
“Shhh, don’t cry, Sweetheart. Don’t upset yourself. It’s not good for the baby.” John consoled, “Dammit, I can’t stay away anymore, Marlena. Your pregnant, your hormones are raging. I have an unborn child and an expectant mother that I need to come home to, because they need me, and boy do I need them.”
“So you’re not mad?” Marlena asked with a sniffle.
“I’m not mad,” he assured, “listen, I am going to get the first flight out of her tomorrow morning, so you and I can celebrate the news of our baby properly, okay?”
“Please hurry home.” She asked as her heart lit up with joy, and her body with an illuminated maternal glow.
“I’ll be there as soon as I can.” He vowed.
“I’ll be waiting,” she beamed, “I love you.”
“And I love you honey,” he replied with pure adoration, “I love you both.”
Chapter 15- Turn of Events
The silence of the darkened hotel room was deafening. The wait for John seemed eternal, as a nervous Marlena fidgeted on the sofa, tears streaming her anguished face.
“Oh God, what have I done?” she cried to herself, “I didn’t even have the decency to tell John he was a father before I told Roman. Now the entire nation thinks my child belongs to that bastard. How can he forgive me, Lord? How can he forgive me when I can’t…….I can’t forgive myself?”
Berating herself with questions didn’t make the situation any easier. She’d failed in her duty to tell the man she loved he was going to be a father, instead telling the man he despised she was expecting, and causing a backfire so huge, it was almost unfathomable.
************************************
“Marlena?”
John’s soft voice called out, as he walked slowly through the suite room corridor, and set down his luggage. It was late, his plane had faced some unexpected turbulence, causing a two hour delay, with a stop in Ohio.
It was after midnight when he finally made it to O’Hare, hopped into the first taxi he saw, and raced to the elevator of the Syberis, and down the hall to the love of his life, and his baby to be.
When there was no answer, he tiptoed quietly into the room, and over to the couch. It was there he found his beloved fast asleep. Her breathing tranquil, but with a tearstained face and unsettling frown. She’d been crying, and he knew exactly why.
“Damn him for doing this to us,”
He sighed, as he glanced over her huddled frame once more, smiling when he noticed her arms draped securely over her stomach. Even in sleep and in the early weeks of pregnancy, she was already attached and protective of the life they’d created. He couldn’t help but be overwhelmed with an immense sense of pride, not to mention a pang of jealousy, knowing the entire country thought his child belonged to another man, and that he didn’t get to experience the joy of being a doting Dad and loving husband.
“Mmm,” She sighed in her sweet slumber, rolling to her side, yet never letting go of the hold on her belly.
“Honey, are you awake?” John whispered, as he walked around to the side of the couch, and knelt beside her, gently stroking the stray tendrils of hair from her warm forehead.
“John?” she replied groggily, in a raspy voice, as she slowly opened her eyes.
“Hey beautiful,” he smiled at her, placing a tender kiss on her lips. “How you feeling, huh?”
“Physically, I’m fine,” she grinned, “emotionally, I am a rollercoaster.”
“That’s not good for you, or our baby.” He replied with concern.
“Ha, our baby,” she laughed ironically, as tears welled up in her hazel orbs. “We’re the only two who know that, thanks to me. I told that son of a bitch and now.”
“Shhh, stop that.” He insisted, as he reached his hand to wipe her tears with the pads of his thumbs. “I don’t wanna think about what that scum bag did to us. I want to think about us, the three of us. You, me, and that baby we made together. Because that’s all that is important to me right now, and that’s all that’s ever going to matter.”
He assured, as he reached his arm over her hand, and the two of them looked down at her abdomen. Even though there was no visible indication of life just yet, they knew in their hearts their love had made the greatest gift of all, the precious gift of life.
“I hope she has your eyes,” Marlena teased.
“Well, I hope *he* has your smile.”
‘I think we have a little conflict here.” She giggled.
“Nah,” he said shaking his head. “It doesn’t matter if we have a son or daughter, I’d love it more than anything. It would be perfect, just for the simple fact that it is *our* baby.”
“Right.” She agreed with a bright smile, followed by a long yawn.
“Are you still tired?” John asked with slight disappointment.
“Well, it’s not like I have any *stimulating* activities to keep me awake.”
“Stimulating, huh?” He grinned wickedly, rising to his feet, and lifting her from the couch. “I think I have an idea that will *stimulate* you.”
“I dunno, I’m pretty tired. It’s going to take a lot to keep me awake.”
“Like what?” He asked, as he arched his eyebrow.
“Hmm I dunno,” she replied seductively, as she wrapped her arms securely around his neck, “like you taking me into the bedroom…….and doing the same thing you did on Valentine’s Day.”
“What if I did that……and what I did the night on the piano?”
“I don’t think breaking a bed will be good for the baby,” she laughed.
“True. I guess I’ll just have to be gentle then.” He winked.
“I guess so,”
She replied as she captured his lips in a smoldering kiss, and the two headed towards the bedroom for a night of passion.
******************************************
“‘Brady Baby Boom causes boom in the polls. Papa to be gets a 5 point upswing in the numbers, now that he and his wife have announced that they’re expecting baby number 4 later this year’. Haha, front page of the Chicago tribune!” Roman exclaimed proudly, “Damn I’m good!”
“I must say, that was a touch of genius, Roman.” Abe Carver replied as he looked over the latest straw polls. “But it is also a crock of bullshit.”
“What the hell are you talking about?”
“Marlena doesn’t even want you in her house, let alone her bed. So I know that kid she is carrying can’t be yours.”
“Oh really?”
“Really.” He persisted, as he took a sip of coffee, and reclined in his chair. “So that leaves us with the age old question, ‘Who’s the Daddy?'”
“Well, the nation thinks it’s my kid, the voters think it’s my kid, so whoever the real father is doesn’t f*cking matter, does it, Abraham?”
“No I guess not. I was ju-”
“You were just being too damn nosey, that’s what you were doing.” Roman seethed, as he stood from his chair. “Now, I don’t wanna hear you or anyone else in this house, on my team, or in the whole goddamn state of Illinois questioning the paternity of *my* baby, understand?”
“Fine, you’re the boss.”
“Damn straight, I’m the boss. I’m also a future United States Senator.”
“How can we forget,” Abe mumbled under his breath.
“Mr. Brady?” The sound of one of Roman’s secretaries called over the intercom.
“What Nicole?”
“You have a call on line 2, a rather distraught woman, said it’s urgent.”
“Jesus Christ, I hate when they get all emotional over a one night stand. Don’t they tell those bitches the meaning of ‘wham bam, thank you, Ma’am?’ anymore?”
“That’s the kind of woman’s rights attitude, sentimental nature, and character that will just *pave* your way to the Hill, Roman.”
“Don’t you have numbers to crunch?” he shot back, before redirecting himself to the intercom. “I’m not taking any calls tonight, Nicole. Tell her to leave a message.”
“She said it’s in regard to Carrie, Sir.”
“Carrie? Who the hell has anything to do with Carrie? Did she give a name?”
“Yes Sir.”
“Well, what the hell is it?”
“Anna Thompson.”
“Goddammit!” Roman yelled, as he slammed his fist on the coffee table, and bowed his head in disgust.
“Uh oh,” Abe said as he shook his had laughing. “Guess the road to the Senate is about to get a little bumpier, cause the shit just hit the fan.”
Chapter 16- Calling The Shots
“How much do you want?”
The harsh voice of Roman Brady asked coldly, as he sat down in his seat across from Anna.
“Well, hello to you, too, Roman.” She smiled slyly, glancing over her menu. “Long time no see, oh and before I forget, congratulations on the new baby. I’m surprised Marlena’s still sleeping with a bastard like you when half the free world knows what a womanizer you are.”
“If you only knew the half of it,” he rolled his eyes, and reached for his glass of water. “So, what is it this time, Anna? Million I gave you ran out, and you’ve come back for more.”
“You can’t put a price on the precious time I’ve lost with my daughter.”
“Oh, so you’re here to get her back because twelve years later, you’ve developed morals, is that what the hell this is about?”
“Yes, I admit I was wrong. I was young, I was naive, and I was stupid. I would’ve believed the world is flat if you’d told me, Roman. I was so head over heels in love with you, and so scared that you’d do something to hurt my baby if I ever crossed you. That’s why I went away, but now, all these years later, I’ve come to realize, *I’m* the one with the upper hand.”
“So you think,” he winked confidently.
“I don’t think,” she shook her head, “I know. You’re campaign won’t run so smoothly if they find out I’m really the mother of your oldest child, would it?”
“You sneaky bitch,” he seethed in disgust, “all right, let’s make a deal.”
“Smart man to accommodate me,” she grinned, “because I’m about to make you an offer you cannot refuse.”
*********************************
“My six week checkup is Friday. I’d really like it if you were there with me, ya know, to hear the baby’s heartbeat.”
Marlena asked an oblivious John, as he gazed out of the window of the Syberis penthouse.
“Honey, did you hear me?”
“Yea, Doctor’s on Friday. What time?” He replied in a monotone voice.
“Two.”
“Sounds good, I will be there.”
“You don’t sound enthused, I could always go alone.”
“No, Sweetie I’m sorry. Nothing would make me happier than going to the doctor with you to checkup on our baby.”
He smiled warmly, as he took a few steps towards her, and rubbed his hands lovingly across her stomach.
“Yes, it would,” she answered with guilt, tears forming in her hazel orbs. “You’d be so much more proud and happy if you could’ve been the one to tell the world we were having a baby.”
“Hey, come on,” he consoled, taking her into his arms and rocking her to and fro. “I told you that wasn’t your fault, Honey. I promise you, I-,”
Before he could finish, the phone ringing echoed throughout the room.
“I’ll get it,”
She sighed as she wiped her tears, and headed to the end table to answer it.
“Hello?”
“Pack Carrie’s bags, she’s going to Paris.”
“Excuse me?”
“You heard me.”
“Yes, I did hear you. What I didn’t hear was you ask for my permission to send *our* daughter out of the country.”
“Yeah well, I hate to burst your bubble, *Princess*, but *our* daughter is going to Paris to see *her* mother.”
“Like hell she is!” Marlena screamed, as a startled John looked on.
“Hey, you’re in no position to call shots, you knocked up little slut. Just have her ready and packed by tomorrow night. Then you can go back to rendezvous with your lover boy.”
“You won’t get away with this.” She warned.
“Oh,” he grinned wickedly, “but I already have.”
Chapter 17- Let’s Make A Deal
“Thanks for persuading Marlena, Roman.” Anna smiled graciously, “I know persuading her to let me take Carrie to Europe wasn’t easy.”
“Well, I don’t think I have completely convinced her yet, but don’t worry, I will.”
“What do you mean you haven’t *completely* convinced her? The plane leaves in three hours!” Ann screamed in frustration.
“I’ll take care of it for Christ sake,” He groaned, “she’ll be here soon, and Carrie will be waiting at the airport with Roland the chauffeur.”
“Anyone home?” Marlena’s voice called out, as she rushed through the foyer, and straight for the living room.
“Hello, Marlena.” Anna smiled.
“Bon Jour, Lady Marmalade. Glad to see you’re back from street walking in gay Paree.” She seethed sarcastically, not in a mood for chit chat.
“Well, I’m glad to see you haven’t lost that witty sense of humor. You managed to put up the same defense mechanism of sarcasm when you found out I was sleeping with your husband and pregnant with his baby.”
“Yes, well, old habits die hard, including his.” She grinned, as she set down her purse.
“Whatever, I didn’t come to discuss the past, I came to get my daughter and take her back with me.”
“Like hell you are,” she glared, as she folded her arms across her chest. “I’ll be damned if I am letting my daughter join in some brothel Can-Can bar across the ocean!”
“You mean *my* daughter?” She shot back coldly.
“She might be yours by blood, but she’s mine by heart. I raised her, I *am* her mother. You abandoned her, and all of a sudden twelve years later you feel like being maternal and you want me to turn my back on Carrie? I don’t *think* so!”
“I’ve changed, Marlena!” She yelled, “I was young and stupid, and I believed Roman as much as you did, but I’ve changed now, I have a new outlook on life.”
“Oh no, don’t tell me it’s no longer ‘Voulez vous coucher avec moi’?” She snickered.
“Go to hell you condescending bitch! You can call me all the names and insult me as much as you like, but I *am* going to Paris and taking Carrie with me, or else I will make *you* pay.”
“You’ll *make* me pay? What the hell are you going to do? Tell the world you screwed him?” She asked pointing to room. You and half of Washington, D.C. You’ll be ruining his life, Sweetheart, not mine. So by all means, go right ahead.”
“What if she told them about your affair with John Black? That can’t be good for his career, could it?” Roman chimed in.
“You bastard!” Marlena fumed, “how *dare* you tell her about that and allow her to us it as ammunition against me!”
“This is the big leagues babe,” he shrugged, “sometimes, you have to play hardball.”
“Okay,” she nodded reluctantly, “you can have Carrie in Paris for Spring Break, but she needs to come back for school. I want her here on Easter, understood? Then maybe she can go see you for the summer.”
“Of course, I won’t let her miss school. You have my word.”
“Ya know, for some strange reason, I don’t find that comforting. But it will have to do. If she isn’t here by then, I don’t care what the hell you tell the world, I will personally fly to Europe and bring her home.”
“You sure you’ll be able to do that in your expectant condition by then?”
“You just try it, if I have to wobble there, I will.”
“Now that *I* would pay to see.” Roman interrupted, as he walked across the room to grab the suitcases. “Come on, the flight leaves soon. We better get a move on.”
“I’m coming, too.”
“Excuse me?”
“You heard me, if I am going to agree to this, I’m at least going to give my daughter an explanation and say good bye.”
“Thank you, Marlena. You won’t regret this decision.”
“”Oh?” She questioned, “Honey, I already have.”
The Jarlena Journal 