Family Affairs – By Sofia

Prolouge:

“ The kids are growing up so quickly. Everyday they change more and

more” said Caroline Brady beaming with pride watching her two

grandchildren playing in the garden. Looking over at her daughter in

law she continued, “ You and my son John did a great job raising

them” “Thanks Caroline. I appreciate it. You know how much your

opinion means to me” “Well I’m only telling the truth” assured her the

older woman. “ When John’s first wife Isabella died, I didn’t knew that

my son was going to make it, raising little Brady and Cassandra alone

but you came into his life and you took care of John and the kids and

you created a new home to them.” “John and I are really trying hard

and you know it’s not easy. But you know that I love the children as if

they were mine.” “ I know this dear, and I know John and the children

are very lucky to have you in your lives, Kristen” “Thanks Caroline! It’s

so good to have a mother law like you. Who supports me. You’re so

nice with me. In fact you were nice with me from the first moment we

met.” “Well I could see how much my son loved you and how a good

person you were despite the fact that Stefano Dimera is you father.”

Disgusted by this name Kristen interrupted Caroline from saying more.

“ Stepfather Caroline he is my stepfather and if it was in my hands I

wouldn’t want to have any relationship with this man at all. Thank God

he is out of our lives”. “Yes” seeing that this subject was still hurting

her daughter in law Caroline decided to change the subject. “Anyway I

heard that you and John are looking for a new nanny”. “Yes that’s

true. Ivy couldn’t stay any longer and now with Roman coming back

from Europe with his children and staying in our house we need

desperately a new nanny”. Trying to suppress a chuckle at the image

of five children running up and down the house with their parents

close behind Caroline asked “So did you find a new nanny?” “As a

matter of fact we did” announces Kristen proudly “ Oh really so soon?”

“Well we had help from Abe” “Ah I knew that it was Abe’s doing”

knowing that Abe as John’s and Roman’s best friend would try

anything to pull them out of a bad situation. Bringing Caroline back

from her thoughts Kristen continued “Well Abe knows a woman who is

looking for a nanny position and Abe suggested us. So she called and

we arranged a meeting this afternoon to talk. And if we agree she

starts to work here” “Oh that’s interesting. Can I stay at the meeting?”

“Sure why not. I would love to hear your opinion” “What about John is

he going to make it for the “interview? ” ” asks concerned Caroline. “I

hope so” “By the way, what’s the nanny’s name” “Oh I didn’t mention?

Well it’s…Marlena Evans…”

Chapter 1

Afternoon arrived the children were sleeping, exhausted from all the

chasing and playing in the garden and Caroline and Kristen were

anxious about meeting their possibly new nanny.

While they were discussing suddenly they heard noises from outside

and before they could react three children came flying into the room

and greeting the women. “Grandma …grandma. We’re home”.

Surprised Caroline could only nod her head and open her arms to

embrace the children.

This was the first thing Roman Brady saw when he stepped into the

living room. His children in their grandmother’s arms. “Hello ma” Both

women turned to see Roman standing there with two suitcases in his

arms. Overcome with joy the elder woman stood up went to her son

and embraced him. “Oh Roman, my baby it’s so good to see you” .

Suddenly she pulled away and punched him in the arm. “Ow! What

was that for ?” “That was for not letting us know that you would come

home today. Why didn’t you say something when we talked on the

phone?” “Because it was John’s idea to surprise you. And believe me

I’m the one who got the surprise. Punching my arm. Remind me never

listen to John again.” Suddenly he heard a giggle and turned to see

Kristen standing there with the children, laughing. Feeling

embarrassed that he didn’t noticed her, Roman went beside her and

stretched his hand for a shake but Kristen pulled him into an embrace.

“Welcome home Roman it’s been a long time” pulling from her

embrace Roman said “Yes it has. But I’m here now and I’ve decided

to stay in Salem for a while”.

When Roman answered all the questions regarding his life in Europe,

the children went to the car, grabbed the presents and gave them to

the others. “Look grandma this present is for Grandpa” explained the

sixteen-year-old Carrie Brady. “Yes darling I see it. We’ll give it to

grandpa when he comes home from his trip” Shawn Brady was out of

Salem to buy supplies for his restaurant. The Brady pub.

Exhausted from their trip Carrie and the twins went to their rooms

while the adults were talking about Roman’s return, the children’s

future, the Brady pub, John’s businesses and Roman’s future in the

police force. Roman even mentioned that John informed him about the

nanny problem. Kristen told him that they were waiting for the new

nanny to come soon.

——————–

Meanwhile in front of the Black estate stopped a taxi and a young

blond woman came out. She paid the driver and he took of. The

woman was looking the house with awe –if you can call it a house and

not a palace. In the middle of the garden there was a statue of

Poseidon holding a trident in his hand while water was coming out of

1. The house was huge and in the front door were two lion statues.

Suddenly fear hit her and she wasn’t sure if going in there was the

right thing to do. She had a feeling that if she went in there now, her

life would change for ever. Pulling herself together and believing that

her thoughts are stupid she continued walking until she reached the

doorbell and rung it. After a few moments a blond slender woman

opened the door. The other woman swallowed and then with courage

she said “Hello. I’m Marlena Evans. I’m here for the nanny position”…

chapter 2

Kristen Dimera Black knew that the new nanny would be young but

not so young and certainly not so beautiful. She was so caught up by

the sight of Marlena Evans that she didn’t realized that that she was

blocking the door for the young woman to enter. “Oh I’m sorry. How

rude of me! Come in! I’m Kristen Dimera Black” said Kristen extending

her hand. Marlena took it and Kristen led her in the living room

As they were walking, through the hall, Marlena couldn’t stop admiring

the house. It was huge, the walls were covered with wallpapers, the

stairs had a red carpet, on the ceiling was hanging a chandelier,

paintings were everywhere, statues also and the curtains were from

red velvet “Hmm this all is so very classy” thought Marlena.

“Well do you like the house?” “Hmm? I’m sorry what did you say?”

asked Marlena realizing that she was ignoring Kristen while she was

talking. “I said do you like the house. That is what you were thinking

isn’t it? ” Smiling a little bit, Marlena said that the house was nice.

When they arrived at the living room an old woman and a blond tall

man rose from their seats and faced Marlena. “Roman, Caroline I’d

like to introduce you to Marlena Evans. Marlena, this is Caroline Brady

my mother in law and Captain Roman Brady my brother in law and

Caroline’s son” . When they finished shaking hands Kristen politely

asked Marlena to have a sit and offered her a drink, which she shyly

accepted. While Marlena was answering to Kristen’s questions, she

had this feeling that someone was watching her. Feeling nervous she

turned around and caught Roman staring at her.

Never in his entire life Roman had seeing a woman looking so

beautiful and so elegant as was Marlena Evans. She had long blond

hair, hazel eyes, a perfect little nose, slender figure, long legs but what

really fascinated him was her smile. Embarrassed he turned his head

to Kristen when he realized that Marlena caught him staring at her.

“Excuse me for asking you this but you look so young my dear how

old are you anyway 21, 22?” asked Caroline finding that Marlena was

to young to have any experience as a nanny” “Well I’m flattered but

I’m not that young I’m 27 years old” informed Marlena the others,

while she looked at Roman who was still staring at her. Marlena

started to believe that Roman was some sort of pervert and she

decided to ignore him.

Marlena more relaxed a little bit started to talk about her life “well I

was born and raised in Colorado, I went to university there and then

after my studying I moved to Salem” “And how about your parents?”

asked Kristen. “The live in Colorado” “Do you have any sisters or

brothers?”. Marlena, felling uncomfortable was trying to tell them the

truth when suddenly the door swung wide open and a handsome dark

haired man walked into the room “I’m sorry I’m late” . With a huge

smile on her face Kristen told him that it was all right and that they

were just talking. Suddenly the man turned his head and caught

Marlena staring him with open mouth. Kristen informed him that

Marlena was here for the nanny position. Blushing and with shaky

hands Marlena tried to introduced herself to this handsome man. “Hi.

I’m…I’m… Evans…oh I mean… …I’m…” never in her entire life felt

Marlena so embarrassed as this moment. She wished she could crawl

under a rock and never come up for not being able to put a sentence

together. But she couldn’t help it. Those ocean blue eyes of his

captivated her. “God I feel so embarrassed” she murmured while she

put her head down. “For what reason? You don’t have to be afraid or

nervous. I won’t bite. Well not today!” said the man smiling at her

“Hmm?” “It was just a joke” “Oh” was all Marlena could say while she

raised her head. After this little incident Marlena, took a deep breath

and with more confidence she said “I’m Marlena Evans. I’m here for

the nanny position” “ See? it wasn’t that bad. Nice to meet you” said

the man while taking her hand squeezing it more tightly and looking

her provocatively in the eyes “I’m John Black”. Sparks flew between

them! Hazel eyes were locked on blue ones and Marlena blushing

again realized that her life as she knew it would never be the same

again.

chapter 3

“Now that we settled why don’t you inform me what you were talking

about before I came? ” asked John while he and the rest sat on the

living room couches glancing once and a while over at Marlena who

was sitting very quietly holding her glass still filled with Orange juice in

her hands. Kristen told him about Marlena’s life in Colorado and her

moving in Salem. “That’s all we managed to talk about isn’t it so

Marlena?” “Yes Mrs. Dimera” “Oh yes I remember now! I asked

Marlena if she has brothers or sisters and she didn’t get her chance to

answer me” Knowing that she must answer Marlena quietly said “I had

a sister. Twin. Her name was Samantha” “Was?” asked Kristen

curious “Yes she died last year” “Oh I’m so sorry dear” said Caroline

who hadn’t spoken for a while now. “Thank you Mrs. Brady” managed

to say Marlena when suddenly it hit her. John and Roman were

brothers and Caroline’s sons but yet the one’s last name was Black

and the other’s was Brady. “I wonder why” but she didn’t have the

courage to ask. As if reading her thoughts Caroline smiling at her said

“You must be wondering why my two sons have different names”

“Yes.. I don’t wanna sound curious but …” “it’s all right Marlena.

Everybody knows. So it’s not a secret. John and Roman are half

brothers. You see I’m their mother but they have different fathers. I

was married to someone else and I had John. But then my husband

died and little time later I married my current husband Shawn and we

had Roman. Because I wanted John to have something from my first

husband I decided that John’s last name should be Black. Just like my

husband’s. And Shawn didn’t mind. He said to him John was and

always will be his son no matter what name he carries” “That’s very

sweet of him” “ No my dear it’s simply love”

After they talked some more, where Marlena informed them about her

nanny experience, John and Kristen had to decide if they would hire

her or not. Roman feeling anxious dragged John into the kitchen to

talk to him. “Well have you decided if you’re going to hire her?” “No

not yet” answered John. “Then what are you waiting for?” “Excuse

me?” “Yes you heard me. Hire her!” “Why are you suddenly so worked

up?” “Well she will be the nanny of my children too and I find her

terrific!” “Oh really?” “Yes” “But you didn’t see her with the children.

What if they don’t like her?” “They will love her. I can assure you”

answered Roman. “Ok bro do you want that I hire her for the children

or for you?” “Hmm?” “Don’t lie to me Roman. I know you want her for

yourself and not for the kids. I saw you how you couldn’t take your

eyes off of her. She now probably thinks that you are pervert or

something. ” “Well can you blame me? She’s a knockout. Have you

seen her legs? Oh man! I would love to have them wrapped around

me” “Roman you are really sick!” “I’m not sick. I’m just telling the truth.

And I know that you were looking at her too…” “What are you talking

about now?” “You can’t deny it John. I saw you staring at her and I’m

not talking about her face…” “What? I don’t know why I’m listening to

you and won’t leave.” “Because you know I’m telling the truth. I know

you John. I know that you find Marlena Evans attractive. Don’t worry I

won’t say anything to Kristen” “That’s enough Roman. I don’t…” “Are

you two arguing again?”

The two brothers turned at the same time to find Kristen standing at

the kitchen door. “No Kristen your husband and I were just talking.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I should go inside and see if Ms Evans needs

anything” said Roman while he winked at John. “What was that all

about?” asked Kristen. “Nothing. You know Roman. He tries to cause

trouble again” “How?” “It’s not important. Now have you decided if we

should hire Ms Evans or not?” “No. Not yet. What do you think?” “I

don’t know. You decide” “Hmm…she seems nice and I’m sure the

children will love her” “Then hire her” “Yes but, have you seen how

young and beautiful is? She will cause troubles. And especially to your

brother” “Then don’t hire her” said John starting to get frustrated with

Kristen’s incapacity to make a decision. “Yes but…” “Kristen really

you’re starting to cause me a headache! Please” . But before Kristen

could answer, they heard the children’s giggling from the living room.

So they went to see what’s going on.

Once in the living room, John and Kristen saw Marlena sitting on the

couch having five-year-old Brady on her lap and stroking his hair while

Carrie, Cassandra and the twins Sami and Eric were sitting right next

to her laughing and singing. Marlena saw the couple and tried to stand

up while still holding Brady in her arms, who started playing with her

hair and to apologize, when suddenly she heard John firmly say,

“You’re hired. Welcome to the Black estate and to our family,

Marlena!”

Chapter 4a

It’s been a week since Marlena started working at the Black house

and during this time she had the opportunity to learn a lot about the

family. She met Shawn Brady who had returned from his trip, and Bo

and Hope Brady also. She had spent plenty of time with the children

and she learned a lot about their characters. Carrie is the sensitive

one. The romantic. She and Marlena became friends immediately.

Cassie although is only eight years old she tries to convince everyone

that she is big and independent. Eric is the strong one. He keeps all

the others together. Sami who pretends to be independent needs

Marlena as much as the others, and last Brady. What can she say

about him? He is her weakness. She putted him in her heart from the

first moment she saw him. Now to Kristen. Marlena didn’t see her a lot

these days… she was occupied with other things. And although she

didn’t want to admit it, she waited with impatience the afternoons to

come because that was when John came home from his work. And

even though they hadn’t had the chance to talk alone, it was always

nice to see him.

At her first day off she decided to spend it with her best friend Dr

Laura Horton. After they finished with their shopping they decided to

go in a cafeteria so they could talk. Both women ordered cappuccinos

and while they were waiting for the coffees to come Laura started the

conversation. “So how is it going over at the Black house?” “Fine”

“Fine? That’s all you have to say?” “What do you want me to say

Laura?” “Honey I want details. How the house is, the children,

everyone” “Well the house is huge and even I leave there for a week

now, I still get lost sometimes. Now to the kids… they are adorable. All

of them. I’ll admit it’s not easy to watch after five children but we

manage” “How about your boss?” asked Laura. “What about him?”

swallowed Marlena hard “How is he? Is he as handsome as on the

newspapers? ” “Laura!” “What?” but before Marlena could answer the

waitress came with their cappuccinos. While Laura was drinking her

coffee she glanced over at Marlena who was playing awkwardly with a

button of her jacket. “I heard he is very rich” said Laura who wasn’t

going to give up the subject so easily. “Who?” “John Black of course

who else!” “I don’t know why you’re bringing him up again.” “And I

don’t know why you’re getting so stressed up every time I mention

him?” “No I’m not” “Yes you are. You blushed!” “Knock it off will you?”

“Oh my God you have the hots for John Black!” said Laura raising her

voice a little louder. Marlena who started drinking almost choked on

her coffee by this remark. “You’re crazy Laura! I don’t know the man!

And for god sake he’s married.” “Yes to a witch” “What are you talking

about? Kristen is a very good person” “Yeah right and I’m the Pope.

Kristen Dimera is a witch in every sense of the word. Trust me

Marlena I know her. She’s far from what she shows in public” “What

do you mean by that?” asked Marlena curious. “I can’t say anything

else right now except to be careful around her.”

Few minutes passed and both women where lost on their thoughts,

when suddenly Laura asked again “How about your other job. Will you

ever come back?” “Laura you know there’s no other job for me. I gave

it up and became a nanny.” “Marlena I think you’re making a mistake.

It wasn’t your fault” “Yes it was my fault Laura. It’s because of me that

Sam is dead and I have to live now with the guilt and the

consequences” “Marlena that is ridiculous and you know it. you’re just

trying to punish yourself. By the way have you told this to your boss?”

“No” “Why not? He’ll find out anyway.” “Laura please I can’t talk about

this now. But enough about me tell me about yourself”….

Marlena and Laura had spend the next two hours talking about

everyone and everything, when Marlena returned to the Black house

and after she checked on the children who were sleeping for the noon

she went to her room and after a hot bath she took a nap also. After

her nap, Marlena and the rest of the family went to the dinning room

for supper but Marlena who wasn’t feeling so well didn’t touch her food

and in the end she excused herself to the others and went to her room

to lie down.

************

It was 2:00 in the night and Marlena who couldn’t sleep, got up from

her bed, put on her pink robe and went quietly into the kitchen where

she started searching the drawers. She was closing the last drawer

when she heard someone say, “ Can I help you?”

Marlena turned abruptly and found John standing at the door. “Oh Mr.

Black. What…” “What am I doing here? I live here Marlena. And my

office is near the kitchen. So when I saw light I decided to come here

and see if everything was alright” “You were at your office at 2 o clock

in the night? ” “That’s right. I was there and you are here. So tell me

Marlena how can I help you? Are you looking for food? I’m not

surprised. You didn’t eat your dinner. You didn’t even touch it ” John

waited for her to answer and when Marlena didn’t reply John asked

her again. “I was looking for something to drink. Wine… or something

like that” said Marlena shyly.

John saw Marlena’s paleness on her face, with how much difficulty

she could breath but also the way her hands were clenched into fists.

It didn’t take John to long to realize what’s going on …”You have your

period. Am I right?” he asked. Marlena’s cheeks became suddenly red

with embarrassment and her fists became white from the squeezing.

“Yes” she whispered. “You are right. And I know that sometimes

alcohol helps” “Yes I heard that too. Have you tried it before?” asked

John. “No. I never felt this bad” “Ok then… sit down, relax and I’ll see

what I can find” with that John disappeared leaving Marlena to wonder

what will happens next…

John returned to the kitchen few moments later holding a bottle of

wine in his hand. When he entered the room he saw Marlena sitting

on a chair having her eyes closed and rubbing her back. “You must be

really in pain” Marlena who hadn’t sensed his presence stood up

abruptly and turned to face him. “It’s alright Marlena. Relax. Tell me,

why is it that every time I come close to you, you jump like you’ve

been burned? I’m not the bogyman” “I know that” said Marlena

awkwardly “It’s that I didn’t hear you come that’s all” “All right then.

How are you feeling?” “The same” “Then we shouldn’t waste another

minute but open this baby!” he said showing the bottle. “What is it?” “

Wine. Sit down make yourself comfortable and I’ll get the glasses” .

John filled the glasses with wine and handed Marlena hers “Here drink

it” he said.

Still holding their glasses in their hands Marlena and John went into

the living room where it was more comfortably. After few moments of

silence John started the conversation “You know Marlena, you’ve

been here over a week now but we never had the chance to talk. Isn’t

so?” “Yes” “So tell me do you like it here?” “Of course. Who wouldn’t?”

“What about the children. Do you have any problems with them?” “No!

Of course not! They are all adorable. Every child is unique and

beautiful. I like spending time with them” “You must love children very

much” “Yes I do otherwise I wouldn’t have become a nanny”. Feeling

awkward Marlena stood up from her seat and began walking around

the room stopping in front of the piano and looking at the pictures that

were upon it. Behind all those pictures she saw one of a young

woman “That’s Isabella” John informed her who was standing behind

her. “She was really beautiful” said Marlena “Cassie looks a lot like

her. How did she died?” “Cancer” “I’m so sorry” “Thank you. It is really

hard especially for the children” “Yes it is but they have Kristen in their

lives” “Yes and I’m really grateful for taking care of the children. They

are really close to her, well except for Brady and I don’t understand

why. Kristen was by his side from the time Brady was an infant. But

Brady is so reluctant going to Kristen. He even bonded with you much

more that he ever did with Kristen” “Brady is a very sensitive little boy.

What he needs is love. Don’t worry he’ll come around”

Few more minutes passed unspoken when John said, “You must be

feeling better. You’re not so pale anymore” “Yes I’m feeling much

better. The wine really helped. Thank you” “I’m glad. So enough about

1. Tell me about yourself” “About me? What’s there to tell? I’m an

ordinary woman” “Believe me Marlena you’re much more than an

ordinary woman and I knew you were something special from the first

minute I saw you” their eyes locked and hold. None of them moving

afraid they’d ruin the moment. John ending the moment said “But it’s

not the first time that somebody told you this. I’m sure your boyfriend

tells you this every day” “That’s nice to say but I don’t have a

boyfriend” “Oh really?” “Yes. I’m to busy now with my new job so I

don’t have much time …” “Oh.. Ok then. You said that you went to

university am I right?” “Yes…” “Did you finish it?” “Yes” “So what did

you study?” “Psychology” “Shrink with other words. So why didn’t you

become.. a shrink I mean?”. Seeing that Marlena was feeling

uncomfortable with this discussion he said, “I’m sorry I shouldn’t” “No

it’s alright. I was a psychiatrist for a while but I gave up my practice”

“Has it anything to do with your sister? You know Marlena you can

trust me. They say I’m a good listener” his comment made Marlena

smile a little. “Yes it has to do with my sister” “What happened?” asked

John. Feeling that she can trust John, Marlena started to say, “When I

was a psychiatrist I had a patient who had many problems and I was

determined to help him. We began sessions and he confided in me his

problems. Slowly he improved and we became friends. But all that

changed when one day he told me that he was in love with me and he

wanted a more personal relationship with me” “With other words he

wanted to sleep with you” John said. “Yes. Anyway I told him that I

was not interested in him that way and he became angry and he

vowed he would make me his. He started harassing me threatening

me and I asked help from the police” “You did the right thing turning to

the police” “Yeah that’s what I thought. The police told me to leave the

town for a couple off days so they could catch him without me being in

danger. So while I was away this patient of mine killed my sister”

“Because he thought she was you” “Yes” “Did they catch him?” “Yes.

After that, I gave up my practice and became a nanny” “Marlena it

wasn’t your fault. How could you know that something like this would

happen” “The same thing says my best friend also” “And she is right.

Maybe you should listen to her. What about your parents?” “After what

happened I went to see them but I had the feeling that they were

blaming me for Sam’s death so I left and since then I haven’t spoken

to them” “Marlena this is ridiculous your parents would never blame

you and if I was you I would call them” “You think I should do it?” “Of

course!” “I’ll think about it. You know it’s strange. Except from my best

friend Laura I haven’t told this anyone and I was determined never to

tell you the truth” “Why not?” “Because I thought that once I told you

what happened you wouldn’t want me to be the nanny anymore and I

couldn’t lose this job” “Where did you get this idea from? I knew that

something was troubling you from the first day I saw you but I waited

for you to come to talk to me. Marlena I don’t want you to think of me

as your boss only, but as your friend also” “Thank you” she said while

putting her head down crying. John putting his finger under her chin

forced her to raise her head and to look at him in the eyes. Slowly he

brushed her tears with his thumb and moved his head towards hers.

Their lips were few inches apart when suddenly Marlena rose up from

her seat “Oh my look at the time! It’s 4 o clock” she said “We’d better

get some sleep” “Yeah you’re right. I have to go to work in the morning

and I could use a goodnight sleep” John said still feeling shaken up for

what almost happen between them. “Goodnight Marlena” “Goodnight

John” it was then when they both realized that Marlena called him for

the first time with his fist name.

After closing her bedroom door Marlena leaned against it closing her

eyes and remembering what almost happened between them. “Oh

Marlena where are you getting yourself into?”

John in the meantime, who was in his bedroom, took off his robe and

went to bed. “John is that you?” asked Kristen. “Yes it’s me” “What

time is it?” “4” “were you working?” “Yes” “Until now” “Yes! Go to

sleep” answered John wondering why he lied to Kristen and didn’t tell

her the truth about his late chat with Marlena.

Chapter 5a

It was Saturday 10:00 o clock in the morning and John was just

entering the front door when he saw the children running up and down

the house, laughing and putting their bags filled with stuff near the

couch. He was wondering what’s going on when suddenly he heard

Cassie and Sami arguing about something. When the arguing started

to become more heated John decided to jump in. “Hey kiddos what’s

going on here?” “Daddy, daddy you’re home” said Cassie while

running to her father, the others close behind forgetting all about the

argument. John took Cassie in his arms and with the others he sat on

the couch. Once settled Eric who couldn’t wait a minute longer

announced, “Guess what uncle John, we’re going to the beach!” “To

the beach?” “Yes daddy. Isn’t that great?” “Sure is.” “Do you wanna

come with us?” “Oh I would love to kids but I have some papers to

read and sign. I’m sorry. I didn’t know that Kristen was planning taking

you to the beach” “Kristen isn’t taking us to the beach uncle John but

Marlena” informed him Carrie. “Marlena? But it’s her day off” said

John quietly. “Well she said she wanted to spend her day with us”

replied Sami.

John was about to ask the children were Marlena was, when suddenly

she came out of the kitchen dressed in shorts and t-shirt holding

Brady in one hand and carrying the cooler in the other. “All right

kiddos are you ready?” asked Marlena. “They sure are” answered

John causing Marlena to stop dead on her tracks. “Oh John what are

you doing here? I thought you were at your office” “I was but I came

home because I have some papers to sign” “Well then it’s a good

thing that we’re leaving so you can have more privacy for your work. I

don’t think there is a problem about me taking the children to the

beach. Is there?” John didn’t answer her, he was to busy staring at

her. “John?” “What?” “Is there a problem…” “No.. No. There is no

problem Go ahead and have a great time” Felling uncomfortably under

John’s persistent looks; Marlena started gathering her and the

children’s things to put them in the car. “Well then I think it’s time to

leave” said Marlena “See you later John” “Yea see you later John”

said Cassie mimicking Marlena while the other children started to

laugh with Cassie’s antics. Marlena and the children were near the

door when they suddenly heard John calling out for them “Wait!” “John

what is it?” “I’.. I’ve changed my mind. I’ll come with you” Marlena

swallowed hard “What about your work?” “Work can wait for two hours

or so. Now why don’t you put the things in the car? I’ll go change and

I’ll meet you there” With that John disappeared leaving Marlena

wonder what just happened

After 15 minutes driving John pulled the car into a spot near the beach

and turned off the ignition. “We’re here” he announced proudly. The

children anxiously climbed of the car leaving John and Marlena to

carry all their stuff. While they were heading to the spot, which the

children had chosen, Marlena asked John “Did you informed Kristen

where you are?” “She was sleeping when I went into the bedroom to

change and I didn’t want to wake her so I wrote her a note” “Good”

“Yeah” .

When they arrived, the children had already shed their clothes off and

were ready for some water adventure. While Marlena was putting

sunscreen on the children, John took their umbrella, opened it and

stuck it in the sand. When he had finished he grabbed the floaties, he

took the children and together they went to the shallow where they

blew up Brady and Cassie’s floaties. Marlena in the meantime was

busy laying the blanket on the sand so she didn’t hear John coming

back. “Do you need any help?” he asked. “No I can manage” Marlena

replied not turning her head towards him. “Are you sure?” “Yes John

I’m sure” said Marlena while tuning to face him “I’m capable of…” it

was then when she saw John standing there clad only in his bathing

suit. “Oh my” Her eyes were clued to his bare chest staring at him with

open mouth.

“ Lie down, ” said John not realizing the effect he had upon her.

“Excuse me?” “You blushed! Your cheeks are red. I think that you

were under the sun way to long and so I assume it would be wise to

lie down under the umbrella” “Oh yes good idea” “Look daddy” yelled

Cassie “Look how I swim” “Cassie what did I told you. Near the shore

alright?” said John who went after his daughter. Seeing that John was

distracted by the children Marlena thought it was the perfect time to

take her clothes off, because she didn’t want to do it in front of him

since he was making her feel very uncomfortable. When John

returned he could only groan when he saw Marlena clad in her black

bikini bathing suit. Marlena asked him if everything was alright but

John was busy scanning her body. She turned her head to the other

side and went to sit down on the blanket while watching the children

playing. Sami and Eric were playing Frisbee (Did I write it correct?)

Carrie in the meantime had found other company and they were

chattering, Cassie went for seashell hunting and Brady who was near

John and Marlena was building a castle in the sand.

Marlena took the sunscreen and started to put on her hands and legs

while John stared at her. When she finished she was about to put it in

the bag again when John asked “How about your back?” “What about

my back” “You didn’t put sunscreen on your back” “Well I can’t reach

my back” “Turn over” “What?” “Turn over so I can put sunscreen on

your back” “John that is not necessary, really” but it was too late since

John had already taken her sunscreen and started putting some on

her back. Marlena tried to pull away again but his hands were already

doing their magic and she started to relax somehow. The task was

getting more and more difficult for John when Marlena who had

relaxed arched her back towards him moaning in pleasure. John

encouraged from her moans moved his hands further down her back

starting a slow sensual massage. His hands danced across her soft

skin, letting the warmth of his body immerse into her skin. His hands

were wandering, brushing the sides of her back teasing her. He

rubbed her back for few more minutes and then he returned on her

neck erasing the tension that was there. His hands upon her body felt

heavenly and Marlena closed her eyes, forgetting where she was and

most importantly with whom she was. Realization hit her only when

she felt the strap of her bikini top sliding down from her shoulder. She

turned abruptly to face John, both staring at each other in amazement.

“I’m sorry” John said “I just….” “It’s alright John” Marlena answered

while putting the strap on her shoulder again blushing from head to

toe turning her head to the other side. Neither of them had the

courage to say anything else both lost in their thoughts. Suddenly the

children came dragging Marlena towards the ocean telling her she

was the only one who wasn’t wet.

In the meantime at the Black house, Kristen woke up and found

John’s note informing her that he and Marlena took the children to the

beach. Jealousy hit her but she tried to get over it telling herself that

Marlena was the children’s nanny and there was nothing wrong with it.

Once she was alone she decided to take a long bath.

When she finished from her bath, Kristen went to her room and putted

some clothes on. She was heading towards the kitchen when breeze

came out of one of the rooms and so she went to close the window.

She felt a presence behind her and turned around to see whom it was.

Her legs went weak when she saw who was standing in front of her.

“Stefano”….

Chapter 5b

Marlena spend the next half an hour in the water with Brady, Cassie

and Eric while John was playing volleyball with Sami. The truth is, he

was trying to play but his mind was constantly wandering to the little

incident with Marlena. What was wrong with him? he thought. All the

time he was married to Isabella he never thought about another

woman and the same was when he first married Kristen. But from the

moment he laid eyes on Marlena everything changed. He was drawn

to her. He felt an attraction towards her, which he couldn’t fight, and

the truth is he didn’t want to fight it. He never felt this way and that

scared him not knowing what will happen next.

John came out of his review when he saw the children coming out of

the sea and running towards their towels. He smiled as he continued

to play volleyball with Sami. Suddenly he heard Marlena’s voice

calling out for the children and he turned his head to see her. She was

just like a goodness coming out of the waters. She was beyond

beautiful with that black bikini bathing suit, which clung on her causing

John heavy breathing when he saw the outline of her curves

underneath the bikini top. He was so lost in his thoughts that he didn’t

hear Sami yelling, “Uncle John watch out”

****************************************

Meanwhile at the Black house a shocked Kristen was standing in front

of her stepfather Stefano Dimera. “What the hell do you want here?”

she asked angrily “Kristen, Kristen this isn’t the way you should talk to

your father” Stefano answered while he sat on a chair. “Stepfather.

Don’t forget that! And you don’t know how grateful I really am that I

don’t have Dimera blood running through my veins” “Well, you are not

a Dimera by blood but you sure are one in your heart” replied Stefano

firmly “That is not true” yelled Kristen starting to lose her patience with

him “You disgust me. I will admit that, at some point in my life I

believed that you were an honest and good man but unfortunately I

found out the truth about you and I broke the ties with you but you

continue harassing me and I won’t stand this anymore. I want you out

of my life!” “Kristen kara why are you so hateful towards me? I didn’t

do anything wrong” “Anything wrong? Are you insane? You killed my

fiancé!” “Stop saying that! I did not kill him. It was an accident. I had

nothing to do with it” “Are you telling me that you didn’t cut James’s

car breaks so he could fall of the cliff?” “Of course I didn’t cut them.

I’m not a murderer! You must believe me” “I will never believe you.

You killed James because he found out what monster you really are.

And because you didn’t want the truth to come out you killed him”

“That is not true” replied Stefano raising from his chair and walking

towards Kristen “And stop accusing me everywhere. I’m innocent and

you must accept it. And you will accept is sooner or later and you will

come to me” “I will never come to you, never!” replied Kristen who was

shaking “Now get out before I call the police” “Alright I’ll go but our

discussion is not over!” said Stefano who was standing towards the

door. “Oh by the way if I were you I would be very careful around the

new nanny” “Marlena? What about her?” asked Kristen “She is very

beautiful” replied Stefano “And I’m sure your husband finds her very

interesting…so interesting that he likes spending his time with her on

the beach…Goodbye Kristen” said Stefano walking out of the room

and leaving a shaken Kristen behind

*************************************

“Oh my goodness! John are you alright?” asked Marlena who was

fussing over a bad hurt John “Oh shit! I think I broke my nose” he

replied checking his nose. John was so caught up by the sight of

Marlena that he had forgotten that he was in the middle of a play and

so the ball that Sami threw hit him square on the face. Marlena in the

meantime had sent the children to the car to pick up the first aid box

so she could put some lotion onto his nose so it wouldn’t swell too

much.

The children returned a little time later with the first aid box and

handed it to Marlena. She, to thank them allowed d them to go and

buy ice cream for everyone even for John who was mumbling names

under his breath. Marlena putted the lotion onto his nose and started

to rub it very tenderly despite John’s protest about she having a heavy

hand and making his nose worse.

Few minutes passed and John who had close his eyes and was

enjoying this little massage opened them and couldn’t help but feel

instantly aroused when he saw her breasts at eye level. His mind was

calling out to him, begging him to touch her, to caress her.

Marlena in the meantime was wondering why John became suddenly

so quiet and blushed when she realized what he was looking at. She

instantly felt the sexual tension electrify the small space between them

as his eyes slowly, shyly rose to meet hers. Few more minutes passed

between them unspoken until John couldn’t handle it anymore and

started to stroke Marlena’s arm causing her hairs to rise from this

contact. “John please don’t do this” “Why not? Isn’t it what be both

want? So why fight it?” “Because it’s wrong” “Why is it wrong? Why?”

“Because you are married” Marlena whispered. “Marlena..” “No John.

Please stop it… Look we should pack up our things and go home. We

are here way to many hours and I’m sure Kristen is worried about us”

“Marlena this conversation between us hasn’t finished” “Yes it has.

And don’t say anything else the children are coming”

20 minutes later they were heading home. Marlena and John didn’t

spoke to each other during the drive and when they arrived at the

Black house she went straight to her room to shower.

Afternoon arrived and Marlena didn’t came downstairs for dinner but

decided to stay in her room to see what she would do about John…

Chapter 6

“Kristen are you finished getting dressed?” asked John who was

waiting impatient for her to come downstairs so they could leave for

Bo and Hope’s anniversary party. “I’m almost ready” replied Kristen

from her bedroom. “Oh man I can’t believe that she needs two hours

to get dressed. Women! What did you expect” “What’s the matter bro

are you talking to yourself now?” John turned around and saw Roman

coming towards him. “Yeah well you would be talking too if you had to

wait 2 hours for your date to get dressed. Why the hell is she taking so

long?” “Hey John don’t complain man she is making herself beautiful

for you” Roman replied winking mischievously at him “Has anybody

told you that you are pain in the ass?” “Yep” “I thought so” John said

grinning at Roman. “Hey I did not find it amusing” answered Roman

while pretending to be offended. “Oh man I hate tuxedos. I can’t

breath in this thing. Why in the hell decided Bo to celebrate his

anniversary with Hope with the whole family and not alone?” asked

John. “To rub it in our faces brother. That’s the reason. To show

everyone that he has the perfect marriage while I’m the looser in this

family” “Hey it’s not your fault that Anna dumped you” “I dumped her”

Roman corrected him “ And please don’t mention her name I can’t

handle it” “Well for your children’s sake you must handle it” “But the

children aren’t here…” “Smartass. So Roman you didn’t tell me which

bimbo you brought tonight as your date?” “Oh believe me John, my

date is not a bimbo” “Oh you mean she has brain?” John asked

sarcastically. “Oh yeah and not only that..” Roman answered “You

picked up my curiosity Roman. Do I know her? Who is she?” “Oh yeah

you know her…it’s Marlena!” “Marlena? You mean our Marlena?”

“Since when did she became our?” asked Roman “Well she works for

us doesn’t she?” “Yes. And yes it’s our Marlena. I found out that she

hadn’t had a date and I volunteered.” “Of course you did..” John

replied. “Are we jealous my brother?” Roman asked. Before John

could answer Kristen and Marlena came downstairs. Kristen was

wearing a short blue spaghetti strap dress while Marlena was wearing

a long purple strapless dress, which clung to her curves perfectly.

John was about to remark regarding the dresses when suddenly he

heard Roman saying “Whoa mama are we hot tonight” accompanied

by a cheerful wolf-whistle. Kristen started giggling by Roman’s remark

while Marlena was glancing towards John who was devouring her with

his eyes.

When the four of them arrived at the Penthouse Grill were Hope and

Bo had decided to celebrate their love, the room was filled with family

and friends. They went towards the couple to congratulate them and

wish them many more years of happiness. Roman anxious to have

Marlena in his arms dragged her to the dance floor while John and

Kristen were chattering with Sean and Caroline. Marlena once and a

while glanced discreetly over at John who was looking at her. Her

heart skipped at the sight of him. From one side wishing that she

could forget him and get over this attraction she was feeling for him

and from the other side wishing he could drag her away from the

crowd and lock themselves into a room where they could be alone.

Quickly dismissing these thoughts Marlena tried to enjoy Roman’s

company.

Few hours later Marlena was standing alone and enjoying her drink

when John came towards her. “Marlena, I need to talk to you” “Now?”

“Yes” “It sounds so serious” “ it is. It’s about the children” “Oh ok then.

What is it?” “I’d prefer if we would talk somewhere more private”

Marlena followed John who was heading towards an empty room in

the back of the building. When they arrived John opened the door for

her and she nervously went inside. He closed the door and switched

the light on. “Alright what is this so important that you wanna talk to

me?” “This” replied John firmly grabbing her and backing her up

against the door. Marlena’s eyes went huge “What are you doing?”

“What I’ve been wanting to do for weeks” he said breathing heavily.

“Please John don’t do this” Marlena begged him although she didn’t

sound too convincing. She was trapped between the door and his

body and so she couldn’t do anything when she saw him bending his

head towards her breathing into her scent “Oh God Marlena I want

you so much”. He putted his finger under her chin lifting her head so

that she could see him. “Oh you are so beautiful” he whispered barely

touching her lips with his. Marlena let out a whimper and John stroking

her cheek asked, “You don’t want me to stop. Isn’t so?” She tried to

look away but he forced her to look at him “Am I right? It’s ok. Don’t be

afraid to show your feelings. You want me to continue.” “Yes..”

Marlena’s answer was barely audible but John heard it very clear.

He bended his head and his lips touched tenderly hers. Few minutes

passed and when Marlena didn’t pull away his kisses became more

passionate slipping his tongue inside her mouth and touching hers.

Marlena who wrapped her hands around his neck started to moan and

John encouraged from her sounds putted his fingers behind her back

searching the zipper of her dress. While he continued to kiss her he

started to pull the zipper down causing the top of her dress to slide

further down revealing a little more of her breasts. John groaned with

lust and put his face on the crevice between her breasts kissing her

tenderly there and then more forcefully.

Marlena lost in the sensations pulled of his jacket, untied his tie and

unbuttoned his shirt. When she finished with this task she threw it

away and buried her face into his chest kissing him and licking his

nipples. John in the meantime, who was on fire for her, couldn’t stand

it anymore and so he raised her dress caressing her leg heading

towards her thighs and then putting her leg around him. Marlena

whimpered again when John pushed her once more against the door.

He knew that he shouldn’t be so forceful but his desire for Marlena

was too much. “Oh God John I want you” Marlena said while stroking

his chest with her fingers still not believing what she just said. “I want

you too baby” John replied while smiling at her.

They started to kiss again and John was just about to unbuckle his

pants when suddenly he heard Marlena saying “Wait. John wait!”

“What is it?” he asked “I heard something” “You must be imagining

that” John said who was starting to kiss her neck again “No I’m no

imagining anything. Someone is outside, in this hall”. Before John

could ask her if she was sure they both heard someone asking about

Marlena. “Oh my God it’s Roman” Marlena said terrified. “He can’t

finds us here” she said while pushing John away from her, adjusting

her dress and fixing her hair. “I can’t believe what I was about to do.

Oh I’m so ashamed” she said while starting to cry. “Marlena you have

no reason to be ashamed. We both wanted this” John said while trying

to hold her in his arms. “Please don’t touch me. Don’t touch me. I have

to go” with that Marlena opened the door and stepped outside

bumping onto Roman. “Oh Marlena I was looking all over for you. Are

you alright?” he asked with concern when he saw her flushed face.

“Yes I’m fine but could you do me a favor and take me home? I’m

tired” she lied. Roman as a good gentleman took her to the Black

estate. She went straight to her room crying herself to sleep…

Chapter 7

It was a quiet Sunday afternoon and the whole family was sitting in the

living room. John was occupied with paperwork, Marlena and Kristen

were helping the children do their homework and Roman was

watching TV.

It was difficult for Marlena to concentrate on the children, since her

mind was wandering to the little incident at Bo and Hope’s anniversary

party a week ago. Ashamed with what happened, she tried to do

everything to avoid John these days either spending her time with the

children or going out with Laura. She tried to bury these erotic

thoughts telling herself that the kisses she shared with John were just

an unfortunate experience which will never happen again. But seeing

him now, sitting across from her, the memory of these kisses came

back to her so strong like it happened just a few minutes ago. Marlena

tensed when she saw John loosen up his tie and open the first buttons

of his shirt. She remembered herself in John Black’s arms kissing and

licking his chest. Her face flushed and she felt embarrassed when she

realized that John was looking at her with a mischievous smile on his

face as if he knew he was the source of her discomfort. Marlena

determined not to give him this satisfaction turned her head from the

other side and focused her attention to the children.

*****************

Two hours later John was heading towards the library when he heard

Marlena’s voice coming out of her room. Feeling curious he went

towards her door and opened a little bit more the already open door

and peeked inside. Marlena was sitting on her bed talking with

someone on the phone while she was playing nervously with the wire.

“Yes, I miss you too. I know …what? Oh tomorrow is my day off…Yes

of course. I know that. Don’t worry. I love you too” . Even though he

knew he had no right his jealousy skyrocket by the words “I love you

too”. “I really fell better now that I talked to you. I know…I love you

mama” “Mama? John wondered. “I promise to come and visit you and

daddy soon. Take care of yourself all right? Bye”. John went inside her

room watching her staring out off the window while she was wiping her

tears away. “You must feel really relieved now that you talked to your

mother” Startled she turned around “Jesus John what are you trying to

do? Give me a hear attack?” “I’m sorry I didn’t mean to scare you. I

thought you heard me” “No I didn’t” she said suddenly feeling

uncomfortable having him so close to her “I’m glad you took my advise

and talked to your mother. I was sure that you would talk to her

eventually” “You heard me?” “I’m sorry I didn’t mean to listen it’s that I

was heading towards the library when I heard you talking and

mentioning your mother’s name” “Oh, Yeah I was talking to her. It took

me a while to realize that you were right. That my parents weren’t

accusing me for Sam’s murder” “I’m glad to hear it” he said while

staring at her. “You know I’ll probably should go” Marlena said

suddenly feeling the temperature rising in the room and without a word

she left. John smiled realizing that he was the source of her distress.

“You can’t run away from your feelings for ever Marlena” he said to

himself.

**************

Marlena was still strolling in the garden. Heading towards to a tree that

was on the top of the hill enough meters away from the house.

Leaning on it and sighing heavily “Oh Marlena what is wrong with

you?” she asked loud “You know what is wrong with you just like I

know what is wrong with me”. Startled Marlena turned around and saw

John standing there. “John! What are you doing here?” “I was worried

about you. You looked so pale earlier I was afraid that you were

coming down with something. I wanted to talk to you but you left your

room in such hurry. I wanted to make sure that you were aright but

you weren’t anywhere in the house and so I assumed that you were in

the garden. You always go in the garden when something is bothering

you” “Well you’re wrong nothing is bothering me” “Are you sure?” “Of

course I’m sure. So, you can leave now. I’m fine” “And miss this

beautiful sight?” he said while pointing towards the sunset.

Nervously Marlena started walking declaring that she would prefer to

be alone but John began to follow her. She turned her head lightly

glancing discreetly towards him. John who had bent down to fix his

shoe rose before Marlena could look elsewhere. “Is something

wrong?” he asked raising his eyebrow. “No” she answered abruptly

trying to convince them both. Why is he getting to me so much. She

wondered. “Why do I not believe you?” Marlena felt his warm breath

upon her temple. She was so caught in her thoughts that she didn’t

noticed that he had come closer to her. While she was thinking, John

had speeded his pace and now he was standing behind her. His body

became a shield protecting her from the cold wind that started to blow.

She shivered when she felt him behind her. “Maybe because you like

to cause problems which aren’t there. Look it’s getting cold and I think

it would be better if we return”. “You don’t seem cold to me” he replied

while heading more towards her. His warm breath caressed her

flushed cheek. For Marlena it was getting more and more difficult to

resist him. “John I want to go home” “But I don’t” he replied raising his

hand and putting her hair behind her ear “I’d rather stay her with you”

he added grabbing her from her temple and dragging her towards him

crushing his lips with hers. Marlena surrendered to his sweet kiss for

few seconds and the pulled away staring at him angrily “Don’t do that

d**n it!” “Why not isn’t it what we both want?” “It’s what you want not

me” “So are you telling me that you don’t want me?” “Exactly” “You

aren’t telling the truth baby” “Don’t call me baby” “Why not?” “Because

I don’t like it” “Just like you don’t like me? Or just like you didn’t like it

when you were touching and kissing me in that room at Bo and

Hope’s party? Come on Marlena we both know that is not true. The

truth is that, that night you transformed from a little shy one into a porn

star” “Porn star?” a shocked Marlena asked. “I’m leaving! This

situation is getting way out of hand” “So leave but you know that you

can’t run away from your feelings” “You sure have an enormous ego”

“Ego? Because I’m telling the truth?. We both know that we feel an

attraction for each other. An attraction that was there from the first

moment we met. You have to believe me Marlena I’m not the kind of

man that chases other women while being married but with you it’s

different. You had me spellbound from the first moment I saw you. I

never felt this way. You must believe me”

Slowly he moved towards her stroking her cheek with his finger

causing her to close her eyes and enjoy his touch upon her skin. She

sighed when his finger moved towards her neck and stayed at her

collarbone touching her so tenderly there. She could feel the soft

rustle of her white shirt as he ran his hands back and forth along her

arms. She sighed again when she felt the burning heat of his hands

trough the thin silk of her shirt. Still having her eyes closed Marlena

got lost in the sensations and was startled when he ripped her shirt

open loosing few buttons in the process that fell on the grass and

buried his face in her chest. While he was kissing and biting her there

she eagerly opened his shirt and pulled it off of him. John raised his

head staring at her in the eyes as if asking her if she was sure she

wanted them to continue. For an answer she licked her lips and then

tiled her head back arching her neck. John didn’t waist another

second and buried his mouth on her neck kissing and licking her there

while his hands went under her long brown skirt stroking her thighs.

Marlena had to lean herself against the tree when he slowly started to

take her underwear down. She had few minutes of sanity and was

ready to push him off but when his fingers reached his destination, the

only thing she could do was whimper dragging his pants and boxers

down. John grabbed her from her buttocks causing her to wrap her

legs around him allowing him to enter her. She cried out at the first

contact and then she took his mouth in hers kissing him brutally while

they started to move as one together.

As time passed his thrusts became more forceful causing Marlena to

lean forward on the trunk of the tree while the bark of the tree left

scratches on their naked soaked skin. These painful sensations only

fueled their passion urging them to continue this way until they

reached the climax.

Moments later Marlena was just standing there and gazing at the

house when she felt John’s arms wrapping around her waist kissing

her tenderly on her temple. She closed her eyes and leaned her head

on his chest sighing “Oh John what are we gonna do now?”…

Chapter 8

“Ok who wants another Margarita?” Laura Horton asked slamming her

empty glass on the table while motioning to the waiter to come to their

table “Laura I think that you had way to many” “Oh Lexie come on,

loosen up will you? How often do we get the chance to spend one day

only the four of us? I mean with family and work obligations we don’t

see each other as much as we want to. So at least now we can relax a

little bit and enjoy this evening” she said while the waiter was putting

the next glasses of Margaritas on the table “Oww Laura now you’re

asking for the impossible. You know that it’s very hard to make Lexie

loosen up” Maggie said winking at her. “Well I can’t help it. I think I’m

the only serious from the four of us. And I think it’s a good thing

because if I was like Laura here who is beyond drunk we would end

up in the police station” “Well what’s the problem. Your husband works

there. I’m sure he could help us out” “Yeah sure. By the way, today I’m

not the only serious here. Marlena is also isn’t so?” Lexie asked

glancing at Marlena who was staring at her glass, a blank expression

on her face “Hello earth to Ms. Evans” Laura said waving her hand in

front of Marlena’s face. “What?” “Marlena are you all right?” asked

Maggie. “Yes I’m fine. Don’t worry” she said reaching for her glass and

drinking her margarita like it was ice tea.

After spending another hour at the cafeteria the four of them went at

Laura’s place where they were gossiping making jokes, girls stuff.

Even though Laura was a little drunk she could see that something

was troubling Marlena and she was determined to find out what it was.

Maggie, Laura, Lexie and Marlena were always the best friends from

the time Marlena was working at the hospital. They went through a lot

together, good and bad things that made them bond. And although

Laura loved Lexie and Maggie also, her best best friend was Marlena.

Marlena was the one who supported her after her divorce from Bill.

They two of them shared secrets that neither Lexie nor Maggie knew.

It was getting late and the ladies were leaving Laura’s place, when

Laura went towards Marlena “Marlena I need to talk to you”.

When Lexie and Maggie left, Marlena and Laura sat on the couch. “All

right Ms Evans would you like to tell me what’s going on with you?

And don’t tell me nothing because I won’t believe you. I may be a little

bit drunk but not that much that I can’t see when my best friend has

problems” “Don’t worry Laura it isn’t something important” “You were

miles away all evening so I think that it is important. What is it

sweetie? Problems with the children?” “No the children are just great.”

“Then what is it? Problems with your boss?” Laura asked causing

Marlena to turn her head from the other side “that’s it? You’re having

problems with John Black?” “Laura please let it be” she said while

blushing something that Laura noticed. “Oh my Goodness you’re

sleeping with him” she said in excitement “Oh holy…So when did the

fireworks explode?” she asked winking mischievously “Laura you’re

pervert. You know that?” “Yeah but I’m not the one who’s having a

torrid love affair with the boss” “It only happened one time…” “So now

we know for sure that it did happen” “Oh Laura what am I gonna do?

I’m so confused” “You know you’re acting like the end of the world is

coming. You slept with a guy so what?” “So what? Are you insane? I

slept with a married guy who happens to be my boss. You know what

the ironic in this whole situation is? I was always against women who

were coming between a couple and now I became one of them”

“Marlena I think you are exaggerating” “Exaggerating? And under your

opinion what should I do?” “Nothing. Just enjoy what you have with

John Black” “But it isn’t right. I can’t hurting Kristen like this” “Believe

me honey Kristen is the last person you should be worried about. She

deserves it and much more” “Laura?” “Huh?” “You know I probably

shouldn’t ask but you are my best friend and I love you and so…why

are you hating Kristen so much? You knew her before isn’t so?”

“Yes I knew her before we two met” she said sighing. “Kristen and I

were the best friends in High School. We were very close. She was

like a sister to me you know but soon everything changed” “What do

you mean?” “When I was in high school I had a boyfriend. We were

together for three years, we were planning going to collage together

and then we would get married, have kids etc etc the usual dreams

that couples have, but things didn’t turn this way. I got pregnant when

I was in the last glass” “Oh my, you never told me this” “well it is a part

of my past that I’m not very proud of. Anyway I got pregnant and didn’t

know what to do. Few days later I told the news to my boyfriend and

he freaked out. I couldn’t understand why he would react this way

since we had talked about having children. It just happened sooner

than we expected it. I was desperate; I didn’t know what to do. So I did

the mistake and turned to Kristen for help. She promised me that she

would talk to him and try to change his mind. As time passed I didn’t

hear a thing about him and I was determine to make him understand

why we should keep the baby. So I went to his house to talk to him

and there I found him in bed with Kristen, my best friend. He told me

that he and that witch were having an affair for quiet some time now

and that he wanted to break it up with me because he loved Kristen

now. I asked him what we would do about the baby and he told me to

find a solution on my own. I got so mad with them that I started crying

hysterical and trashing the house when suddenly I felt a pain in my

abdomen” “The baby?” “Yes…I miscarried” “Oh Laura honey I’m so

sorry for what you went through” Marlena said taking her in her arms

and stroking her hair “So while I was at the hospital Kristen came to

visit me to inform me that she broke up with him. I asked her why and

she told me that she was interested in him only because he was mine.

When he broke up with me there wasn’t much fun so she dumped him

and he left from Salem forever” By now Marlena was crying with Laura

moved with her friend’s drama “Oh sweetie you should have said

something sooner. We would’ve helped you” “I know that now but after

what happened I became suspicious with people and I avoided

making friends” “That is why you were so reluctant becoming our

friend” “Yes because I didn’t want to get hurt again. Anyway I

mentioned this only because I wanted to tell you not to fell guilty about

your affair with John. As you can see Kristen isn’t the little innocent.

She never was. So I say go for it girl. Enjoy what you have with John”

**********************

It was midnight and Marlena was lying in bed remembering today’s

events. Poor Laura what she went through. No wonder she hated

Kristen so much. She still couldn’t believe what Kristen did. She really

thought that she was nice person “I really thought so. I wonder how

she managed to marry John”. Her thoughts were caught abruptly

when she saw the door open “John? What are you doing here?”

Marlena asked in amazement. “I couldn’t sleep. I was thinking about

you and I realized that I had to see you. Oh I missed you today” he

said while climbing in bed next to her “I missed you too” she said while

snuggling closer to him. “John?” “Huh?” “What about Kristen? What if

she wakes up and doesn’t find you there?” “I told her that I would be

working late tonight in my office” “Oh I hate that we have to lie” “I hate

that too and I promise to find a solution about this but right now the

only thing I want, is be close to you. I just want to hold you” “You just

want to hold me?” she asked mischievously. “Alright I want something

more than just to hold you” “And what is it what you want?” “I want to

make love to you” he said while yanking her nightgown off of her and

tossing it on the floor lowering her on the bed. “I don’t want to think of

anything else right now but you and me and this night” he said kissing

her on her neck, moving to the hallow of her throat, reaching her

breasts. “Just let me love you” “Oh John” she moaned a little louder

than she should “Shh baby you’re gonna wake the whole household”

he said kissing her on her lips trying to muffle her moans neither of

them knowing that someone was indeed hearing them from outside

the door…

Chapter 9

After making sure that the children and Roman were gone, Marlena

slowly opened the door to John’s bedroom. Her palms were covered

with sweat from excitement and fear as soon as she stepped into his

room. She licked her lips when she heard the water from the shower

running. As fast as she could she undressed herself and went towards

the bathroom. She opened the door and peeked inside. She couldn’t

see anything because the cabin door was covered with steams. She

bitted her lip in excitement with what she was about to do realizing

that she never acted this way before. Fearing that John could be

finishing his shower before she could have her chance, she hastily

opened the cabin door and looked inside. John was in the shower

having his back towards her.

The warmness of the cabin enveloped her naked body as she stepped

into the shower. John didn’t knew she was there until she hugged him

from behind, pressing her breasts upon his back and her belly upon

his wet buttocks. “Why don’t you let me help you” she said in a raspy

voice while stroking her hands on his chest playing with the hairs.

“Well, look who we have here? If it isn’t the lovely Ms Evans” he said

turning to face her, roaming his gaze upon her naked body. “What are

you doing here baby? Did you miss me?” “You could say that” she

said taking the soap and lathering some on his chest while licking her

lips “I know that you would be alone and so I decided to keep you

company” she replied knowing that no one was going to interrupt them

since Kristen was out of town visiting her brother Peter in Chicago,

Roman was at the police station and the children were at school. “By

the way, happy anniversary baby” she said giving him a quick kiss.

“Why thank you, but for what reason?” he asked holding her against

him nibbling on her earlobes. “Today we’re closing two weeks from the

day that…well you know” “Ah from the day that our sleazy love affair

began” he said making Marlena bursting into laughter “Is this what our

relationship is for you? Sleazy?” she asked while moving her hands to

his abdomen and lower “Oh yeah. Definitely” he said enjoying her

wandering hands upon his skin. “My, aren’t we kinky today Ms Evans”

he said while squeezing her breasts and playing with her nipples

earning a moan from her “Kinky huh? I would say, that is more

appropriate for you Mr. Black” referring to the day when they first

made love against the tree. “I’m never going to see that tree in the

same way again… Oh baby… that feels so good” she said enjoying

her lover’s lips upon her skin. “Ok foreplay is over” she said taking his

mouth in hers and kissing him passionately eager to feel him inside of

her. “Well beside from kinky you are impatient also” he said laughing

with her antics “John…Stop talking” she demanded dragging him

more towards her while wrapping her legs around him allowing him to

enter her. He was kneading her breasts as she was scratching his

back with her nails leaving red marks on it’s way both moving in

perfect time together heading towards their peak.

**********************

“Wow baby” John said several minutes later holding Marlena tightly

against himself. He shivered when he felt her heart pounding against

his own. They were listening to the sounds of their own ragged

breathing, which gradually was slowing down. “My sentiments exactly”

Marlena said placing her head on his shoulder.

By now the water that was coming down was cold and John who

lowered Marlena to the floor, opened the door, turned off the tap and

stepped out onto the bath mat. Still holding her in his arms he took a

big blue towel from the rail, and wrapped it around himself and

Marlena

Never in her entire life Marlena felt so happy and at peace but this

moment by just being with the man she loved. “I love you” she said

snuggling closer to him and kissing him softly on the lips. “Me too”

John murmured against her lips wrapping the towel more securely

around themselves to protect them from the chill.

Suddenly he felt her tense just a few seconds before she pulled away.

“Baby what is it? Marlena?” John asked concerned. “You know until

now I didn’t notice it” “Notice what?” “That every time I say I love you,

you always say me too. You never told me that you love me” “That’s

because you always say this first. After all, me too is the same thing”

“No it isn’t John” “Alright what do you want Marlena” John asked

starting to become frustrated with Marlena’s behavior. “I just want you

to tell me that you love me” “Alright! I..I want you. What?” he asked

when he saw disappointment written on her face “I didn’t ask to tell me

this. I asked to tell me that you love me” Marlena said backing away

form his embrace and heading naked towards the bedroom where her

clothes were while John followed her. “Ok, ok there’s no need to bit

my head of. I ….I” “Oh my God you can’t say it” she said realizing that

he didn’t love her the way she loved him “Of course I can say it” John

said trying to reassure both of them. “Where are you going?” he asked

when he saw her putting her clothes on and heading towards the door

“I’m leaving. I can’t stay here anymore” she said starting to cry “Why

because I couldn’t say what you want” “It’s not what I want. It’s what

we feel. I love you, so for me it’s not difficult to say it openly but you

don’t feel the same way and that is why you can’t say it” “Marlena that

is ridiculous” “Is it John? I think for the first time I’m seeing things

clear. You don’t love me. I’m only good to be your mistress, to keep

you company in bed when you get bored from everything else but

nothing more. Oh God how could I be so stupid. You know it’s true

when they say that love is blind” she said starting to cry again

“Marlena please…” “Don’t touch me John just don’t touch me” she

said opening the door and turning to looking at him “I think that it’s

time to end this little tryst that we have. It is getting us nowhere” she

said leaving from the room not giving John the chance to say

something else. John leaned against the closed door kicking himself

for what happened “Happy anniversary Black, happy anniversary” he

said still not believing that his relationship with Marlena was over…

Chapter 10

“Remind me never listen to you again” Marlena said storming into

Laura’s living room once she had opened the front door. “Marlena?”

Laura asked seeing how angry her friend was. “How could I be so

stupid?” “What happened?” “What happened? I listened to you and

that caused me problems” “Now I’m responsible for your problems?”

“Don’t care about anything else Marlena. Go for it girl. Enjoy what you

have..” Marlena said mimicking Laura “I did what you told me to do

and what did I receive? A disappointment” “What are you talking

about?” “I told John Black that I love him. What else” “You love John

Black?”.

Marlena turned her head and saw Maggie and Lexie coming out of the

kitchen shocked expressions on their faces “Oh Lexie, Maggie” “Did

we hear you correct?” Maggie asked. “Yes..” “But Marlena he is

married” “Gee thanks for the tip Lexie. I didn’t knew it” Marlena replied

sarcastically. “Did you and he…” “Yes Maggie” “I can’t believe that you

would do such a thing” “Well I did it and now I’m regretting it” “Why?

What happened sweetie?” Laura asked. “Well I told him that I love

him..” “And?” “And that not a very nice person didn’t say it back. He

only said me too” “But it’s the same” “No it’s not the same” “Marlena’s

right it’s not the same”. “See? Even Maggie agrees with me. All I ever

wanted was to tell me that he love me, but he couldn’t say it and the

reason is because he doesn’t love me. So I broke it off with him. It was

time. After all, our relationship was getting us nowhere and in the end

everybody would get hurt if the truth would come out” “Are you gonna

continue working there? I mean considering with all what happened”

“Yes, but if John Black even thinks about harassing me I’ll leave. I

made one mistake, I’m not gonna make it again” “Oh girls. Our love

lives are so complicated that sometimes I feel that we’re playing in

some episode on the show Sex and the city” Laura said trying to

lighten a little the mood, which worked since all the four of them

started laughing.

********************

“See how it’s done?” Marlena asked showing Brady how to tie his

shoes. Brady feeling curious of how he could tie his shoes went to

Marlena and she decided to show him.

When she finished she asked “did you understand it now Brady?” “I’m

sorry but no. It’s too difficult. Could you show it to me one more time?”

he asked a little bit embarrassed. “No problem sweetie” she replied

smiling at him “Ok you take the two ends of these laces and…” “Hey

what are you two doing?” “Oh Roman…” Marlena said not knowing

that he was there “Oh I’m sorry I didn’t mean to scare you. I thought

you heard me coming down the stairs” “No I’m sorry I didn’t hear you”

“Look uncle Roman, Marlena is showing me how to tie my shoes” “Oh

that’s great big guy. So did you learn it?” “Not yet but I will” replied

Brady. Marlena smiled realizing for the first time how much Brady was

like his father. Not only did he had John’s blue eyes but his

determination also “Oh man Marlena what are you doing girl? Stop

thinking of him…Well that’s easier said than done…” Her thoughts

were cut abruptly when she heard a car stopping in front of the house

“Ok Brady uncle Bo is here. Are you ready sweetheart?” “Yes I am”

Brady said reaching for his bag “Ok be very careful alright? And

always hear what your uncle has to say” “Ok bye Marlena” the boy

said giving her a hug. “Bye sweetie”

“What was that all about?” Roman asked watching Marlena closing

the door behind her. “Well Bo and Shawn D decided to go for fishing

and Bo suggested that Brady should go with them” “Are you sure it’s a

good idea? I mean Brady is a little to young” “I think that it is a great

idea. You know I talked to John about this and he agreed. You don’t

have to worry; Bo won’t be alone with the boys. Your father will be

there also” “Really?” “Yeah”

“Do you need help?” Roman asked when Marlena started picking up

the books and the pencils from the table. “No I can manage” she said

when suddenly the books fell from her hands. “I think that you do need

help” he said bending to take the books that fell on the floor.

Marlena and Roman were at the children’s room putting the things to

their places when Roman started to speak “You know Marlena you’re

very quiet today. Are you alright?” “Yes of course I’m alright. I guess

I’m a little tired that’s all” she said trying to cover. “Are you sure that’s

the only reason?” “Yes of course. What other reason could be?” “I

don’t? You tell me” “There’s no other reason. I’m just tired” she said

heading towards the door “So my brother John has nothing to do with

your mood?” “John? No of course not. How did you come to this

conclusion?” she asked feeling her cheeks become red “You know

Marlena I’m not the enemy here. I’m just trying to help you” “What are

you talking about?” “I’m talking about your affair with my brother. And

there’s no need to deny it”

“How do you know this?” Marlena asked feeling like someone just

pounced her on her stomach. “You’re not gonna deny this?” Roman

asked, “Well that’s a start” he said glancing towards her who was

ready to fall “Marlena please sit down or you’re going to faint on me”

he said motioning for her to sit on the chair. “Marlena, you must

believe me I’m not here to judge you. After all I have no right, I only

mentioned this because I want you to understand that I’m your friend

and you can trust me. I want to help you and John to get out of this

mess before someone else finds about this and believe me they won’t

be so understanding” “How…how…” “How do I know about the two of

you?” “Yes…” “I found it out a week ago” “A week ago?” “Yes. It was

midnight and I was heading towards to kitchen because I was thirsty

when I heard some noises coming out of your room. I thought that

something happened to you and I went closer to your door and heard

you moaning. I thought that you were hurt so I opened the door and..”

“And you saw us” Marlena said turning totally red with

embarrassment. “Yes..” “Oh God I can’t believe this. Oh I’m so sorry. I

can only imagine what you must be thinking about me” she said

burring her head in her hands. “Marlena how long is this going on?”

“Two weeks” she whispered “But it’s in the past now. John and I broke

up and I’m not going to do the same mistake with him again. From

now on he will only be my boss and that’s all. I normally would’ve quit

but I can’t leave the children like this. They need me like I need them”

“And are you sure that you will be ok living in the same house with

John?” “Don’t worry. I’ll try my best to push him off if he tries anything.

The children and Kristen didn’t deserve that kind of betrayal from me.

I’m not even sure I’ll be able to look Kristen in the eyes knowing what I

did” “You know Marlena you’re a remarkable woman” “Remarkable?”

“Because I went against everything I once believed for? Because I

went with a married guy? No I think that this is dishonest and

disgusting!” “Everyone makes mistakes. We wouldn’t be so human if

we wouldn’t make these mistakes. I made a lot of mistakes in the past

but I try to learn from them and not repeat them” he said winking at

her “Thank you Roman. You don’t know how much I appreciate this”

“I’m only telling what I feel. And I still believe that you are a

remarkable woman and that is why I love you” “I love you too Roman”

“No you didn’t understand me. I mean I really LOVE you. Like a man

loves a woman” “Oh..” “I know that you don’t feel the same, you love

John and I can accept that as long as I have you in my life. Marlena I

know it is a little bit to soon and I think you’ll find this too bold but I

want to ask you something……

******************

The next morning

“Good you are all here” Roman said coming towards the living room

where the whole family was gathered. “Roman what is it?” asked

Kristen who had returned from her trip. “I have to tell you something”

he said while glancing at his parents, his brothers, his children and

Marlena who gave him a little smile. “I have an announcement to

make…” he stopped for a little to take a deep breath and then

continued “Marlena and I got engaged last night. We’re going to get

married at the end of the week”….

Chapter 11

“What’s the matter cat got your tongue?” Roman asked watching the

socked expressions on the faces of his family. Marlena felt suddenly

uneasy and moved towards Roman who took her hand reassuring her

that everything would work out fine. “Did we hear you correct?” Kristen

asked. “Depends of what you heard” “That you and Marlena are

getting married” “Then you heard right Bo. That’s what I said” “In the

end of the week?” “Yes” “Isn’t this a little bit too soon?” Caroline asked

while Marlena was glancing towards John. If looks could kill, Marlena

would be dead in a second. She could see the furious, the hurt and

the anger in his eyes. That only caused her chills running up and

down her spine, so she tried to ignore him turning her attention to

Roman “Yes ma I know it is too soon but I love Marlena, so what’s the

reason to wait? We both want to get married as soon as possible”

“Children are you sure about your decision? I mean marriage is a big

step” “Yes we are sure Mr. Brady. We both want this ” Marlena said

talking for the first time “Then what more can I say? You are both

adults so you must know what you are doing. So congratulations you

two” Shawn said hugging first Roman and then Marlena “Thank you

Mr. Brady” “You’re going to be my daughter in law so I think it’s time to

call me Shawn” the old man said smiling at her “Yes you are right.

Thank you Shawn” Marlena said giving him a weak smile “Welcome to

our family my child” “Thank you Caroline” Marlena said hugging her

future mother in law. More wishes and congratulations followed from

Bo, Hope and Kristen “Honey are you not gonna congratulate the

couple?” Kristen asked her husband who hadn’t spoken at all. “Huh?

Yes of course, of course” he said. “Congratulations Roman” he said

hugging Roman while glancing at Marlena over his brother’s shoulder.

Marlena suddenly felt afraid of what might John do. Shyly she went

towards him and stretched her hand for a shake. “Welcome to our

family Marlena” John said staring at her with anger while squeezing

her hand forcefully. “Marlena are you alright?” Caroline asked

concerned when suddenly Marlena pulled her hand from John’s when

she couldn’t handle the pain of his squeeze anymore. “Yes I’m fine”

Marlena said blushing from head to toe from the pain, the anger and

the embarrassment. “Would you excuse me for a minute. I must go to

the kitchen” “of course my dear” Caroline replied.

Once in the kitchen Marlena was rubbing her hand that was totally red

now from the squeeze. She knew that John was punishing her this

way. She put her hand under the water hoping that the red marks

would leave this way. “You should put ice on your hand. It would be

more effective” Marlena jumped, started by the voice. She turned and

saw him standing there with a smirk expression on his face. “You sure

are an not a very nice person” she said turning away from him and

putting her hand under the water again Oh what a language…And you

are kissing Roman with that mouth? Shame on you” “Go away” “Nope

don’t think so. I think we need to talk” “We have nothing to say Mr.

Black” “Cut the crap with this Mr. Black thing” he said taking her hand

and dragging her towards the table “Let go of my hand you are hurting

me!” “How do think I felt when you announced your engagement?

Didn’t you hurt me too? So sit down and shut up. We are going to

talk!” Not wanting to anger him more she obeyed and sat on the chair

“So tell me what’s this joke about you and my brother getting

married?” he asked ‘It’s not a joke. I’m going to marry Roman at the

end of the week” “Are you crazy? You can’t do that!” “Why not? I’m

single he is single” “Because you’re sleeping with me d**n it! That’s

why” “Was sleeping with you. It’s seems to me that you’re always

forgetting the fact that we broke up” “You broke up with me” “Yeah

and I did the right thing. From the beginning I shouldn’t even started

this relationship but I made that mistake and now it’s time to fix it”

“Mistake? Oh baby three days ago you were begging me to make love

to you and now suddenly it’s a mistake?” “You really are offensive and

low” “Yeah well at least I’m not the one hiding behind my finger and

turning to the first one I see” “I’m hiding? I’ve never hidden my feelings

for you. I’ve always told you that I loved you. You were the one that

couldn’t say it back. So don’t tell me that I’m hiding behind my finger

that’s your doing. After all you’re married. So what future would that

be.? You, Kristen and me? No I don’t think so” “And so you turned to

my brother” “Is this so hard for you to understand that I might actually

want to marry him?” “Yes it is because I know you and I know that you

won’t marry him” “You’re sure of yourself aren’t you? Well I guess will

have to wait until Sunday then” she said standing up from the chair

and heading towards the door “Are these your last words?” John

asked, “Yes. I’m going to marry Roman and there is nothing you can

1. So goodbye John” Marlena said leaving from the room “We’ll see

about that Marlena, we’ll see about that”

Chapter 12

It was Saturday morning one day before the wedding and Marlena

was heading towards the front door to open it “Geez girl what took you

so long to open the door?” Maggie asked while she and Lexie were

stepping into the Black estate. “I’m sorry. I was in my room so I didn’t

hear the bell ringing at first” Marlena said leading her friends towards

the living room. “You mean you’re alone here?” Lexie asked. “Where

is everybody?” “Well the children are with Kristen at Salem place,

John is at work and Roman should be back in half hour or so. Where’s

Laura?” she asked when she noticed that her best friend was

absence. “Oh she is with a patient but she’ll be here in an hour” “Good

because the four of us have many things to discuss” “We sure do”

replied Lexie “Oh I still can’t believe that you’re getting married

tomorrow. It’s so sudden” “Well what’s the reason to wait? Roman

wants this, I want this” “Yeah but what about…you know who” “That

was just a stupid mistake I made. It’s in the past and the only thing I

want now is to forget that it ever happen” “Don’t you think it’s a little bit

difficult to forget considering that you’re living in the same house with

him?” “Yeah but not for long. Once Roman and I are married, we’ll buy

a new house. Then I don’t have to live with him under the same roof

anymore ” “Marlena aren’t you a little bit cruel to him?” “Cruel to him

Maggie? Well if I’m cruel to him it’s because he was cruel with me

from the beginning. I opened up to him. I loved him and he just played

with my emotions. So I don’t think that I’m the cruel one here but he is”

Marlena said leaving her emotions free for the first time after she

broke up from John. Although she was against her friend’s relationship

with her boss, Lexie felt sorry for Marlena and so she took her friend in

her arms who was crying now.

Ten minutes later and after she got tired from crying, Marlena

embarrassed pulled away from Lexie’s embrace. “I’m sorry about that”

she said while brushing her tears away. “You have no reason to

apologize sweetie” Maggie said smiling at her “Are you alright?” “Yeah

I’m fine. Forget that this stupid incident ever happen” Marlena said

standing up from her seat ready to leave the room. “Where are you

going?” asked Lexie concerned “Umm to the kitchen. I’ll put some

water to boil. Tea would be great right now for us to drink don’t you

think?” she said leaving before her friends could ask her anything else

Two hours later Marlena and her friends were going through the last

details for the wedding. “You know it’s the first time that I’ll be a

bridesmaid” Lexie said with excitement. “I think it’s the first time for all

of us” Laura said who joined the company half an hour ago. “Are you

sure you want us for your bridesmaids?” she asked, “Of course I’m

sure. You’re three are my best friends” “Aww we’re like the three

musketeers” Laura said “Yep but weren’t the three musketeers four?”

“I think so” “So then why was the title the three huh?” “Oh Laura”

“Why? What did I say?”

Another hour later and while the ladies where leaving, Roman came

into the house “Ladies you’re leaving?” he asked “I hope it’s not

because of me” “Don’t worry Roman it’s not because of you. We just

have so many things to do” Laura said “Oh good then. For a moment I

thought that you’re leaving because you don’t want to be near me” he

said teasing them. “Don’t worry about that. Once you marry Marlena

you’ll have the feeling that you married us also because we will be in

your house everyday” “Always a pleasure to have such lovely

creatures in my house” he said winking at them. “Oh what a charmer”

“Marlena are you busy? Are you going somewhere?” Roman asked

“No why?” “Well I thought we should go to my brother, there are some

things I want to discuss with him” “Bo?” “No. My best man, John”

Roman said while Marlena was glancing at her friends

*****************

“I don’t care what he told you ” John said yelling at the person at the

other end of the line “No, I know this better than he does and I say that

it’s going to continue the way I want it. If George has a problem with

this, he should call me and not put others to speak for him” John said

slamming the receiver “d**n it!”

“Oh man, you sure are in a bad mood” “Roman? what are you doing

here?” John asked surprised to see him there. “We came because we

need to talk to you” “We?” “Yes Marlena and I ” “Oh, yes hello

Marlena” “Hello John” “So what do you want to talk about?” “The

wedding of course. You’re my best man, so I hope this means that

everything is ok?” “Yeah don’t worry everything is fine” John said

staring at Marlena “So there will be no problems with….Excuse me for

a moment” Roman said when he realized that his beeper was beeping

“Oh man” “Roman what’s the matter?” Marlena asked, “It’s the station.

They need me there” “Today? One day before the wedding?” she

asked in amazement “Yeah I know it sucks. I’ll try to come back home

as soon as possible. Bye baby” he said giving her a quick kiss on the

lips while John turned his head from the other side

“You know I should be leaving also” Marlena said feeling

uncomfortable being alone with John. “You’re not gonna ask me if

everything is ok with the wedding preparations?” “No I won’t because I

know that you did a great job. Like I said I must leave now…” “Are you

so afraid being alone with me in the same room that you want to leave

in such a hurry?” “No, I just have some last minutes preparations to

make” “Like?” “Like the honeymoon for example” she said trying to

shake him a little “Your honeymoon…” he replied feeling nauseous.

“Marlena how long will you continue with this farce huh? You don’t

love Roman, so when are you going to cancel this wedding?” “I’m not

gonna cancel my wedding John. I won’t do that to Roman. He is a nice

caring man who doesn’t deserve to be hurt” “So, you mean that I’m

not a nice man and that is why you are hurting me?” “I’m sorry I’ve

never meant to hurt you” she said while putting her head down “Never

wanted to hurt me? And what do you think I would feel? Happy, that

you’re marrying another man? No, not just another man but my own

brother?” he said raising his voice a little louder “Please John don’t

yell at me. I don’t have another choice. You are married and you don’t

love me. What we had was just a little adventure that’s all ” “So you

still think that, isn’t so?” “Of course I still think that” “Well then you’re

wrong d**n it! I love you!! I love you very much” he said letting his

emotions free

“You love me. You know few days earlier hearing you say that you

love me would make me very happy but now I feel nothing” she said

brushing her tears away from her cheeks and heading towards the

door “d**n it Marlena what do you want from me?” John asked

frustrated “I just told you that I love you and you’re rejecting me” “Well

what did you expect? That I would run into your arms just because

you said it. It doesn’t work that way. Now… I have to leave” she said

passing beside him and heading towards the door. Before she could

open it, John slammed it shut again turning her to face him “d**n it

Marlena you’re gonna drive me crazy with your childish actions” John

said furious “Let go of me” she screamed feeling for the first time a

little frightened “Never!” John said grabbing her from the lapels of her

jacket and kissing her brutally on the lips.

At first Marlena tried to resist him by pulling away from him but John

made it impossible for her to even move, so tight he was holding her

and without any warning he took her in his arms and headed towards

his desk. He placed her on her feet and after he cleared his desk from

the files that were upon, causing them to fly around in the room, he

laid her on the wooden surface, while ripping her blouse to shreds, the

buttons pouncing on the carpet near the long forgotten files “You are

mine Marlena” he said sternly biting her on her chest.

His throbbing hardness was pressing upon her sexiness, and then

without asking further permission he entered her. In seconds he was

thrusting into her while she was arching to meet him, her hands

trapped, unable to touch him. “You are mine, Marlena.. mine forever”

he said as his hands firmly kneaded the soft roundness of her breasts

causing her to cry out. She responded by biting his lips and then his

neck. He growled, and finished them off with one last masterful thrust,

as his tongue licked her neck and ears, making her moan again. She

was helpless… whimpering, crying his name “Oh, John.. Oh!” At last

when they reached their peak of pleasure, they laid still upon the desk,

sated and spent, basking in the golden afterglow…..

Few minutes later, Marlena pulling away from John’s embrace, started

searching the room for her clothes. “What are you doing” John asked

“I’m getting dressed what else” she said “Why?” “Because I have to

leave” she replied buttoning the last button of her jacket “I have a

wedding to think” “Wedding? You’re still going to marry Roman?” “Of

course” “What about what we just shared?” “That was nice but I won’t

change my mind” she said putting her shoes on. Feeling angry John

asked her “Are you sure Roman would marry you if he knew that

you’re sleeping with me?” “He already knows it and he still wants to

marry me” she said “And about what we experienced right now, I just

made a little gift to myself enjoying my last hours of single life. See

you at the church John…” Marlena said walking out of the door

leaving an open mouthed John behind….

Chapter 13

“May we come in?” Laura asked popping her head through the door

“Oh Laura of course” Marlena said smiling seeing her friends enter the

brides room of the church. “Oh you three look so beautiful with those

purple dresses” “But never as beautiful as the bride” Maggie said

hugging Marlena “Oh you look stunning in that dress. You sure have

great taste girl” Marlena was wearing a long straight dress. The color

neither was white or cream it was something in the middle. It had the

color of the Champaign “Are you nervous honey?” “Yeah a little” “Well

it’s natural. You’re getting married in one hour. I’m even nervous” “Yes

you’re right” “ “Are you sure you want to marry Roman? Honey it’s not

to late to cancel the wedding” Marlena was temped to tell her “No I’m

not ready. I will never be ready to marry Roman because the only

thing I can think of, is John and how happy I would feel being his wife”

But she knew she couldn’t say it, so she swallowed with difficulty and

said, “I’m sure…I want to marry… Roman”

After her friends left to take their positions, Marlena was looking

herself in the mirror and wondering if it was worth risking marring a

man she didn’t love just to hurt someone else. She was looking herself

in the mirror but she didn’t recognize herself. Because she knew, that

under different circumstances she would never do such a thing. “Oh

Marlena stop this girl. You are going to marry Roman and you are

going to love him” she said straightening her wedding dress and fixing

her hair

She was opening the door to leave the brides room and walk down the

aisle, when she heard some noises behind her. Before she could

react, someone grabbed her by putting a piece of cloth on her face

covered with chloroform. Marlena tried to fight him but it was useless.

She dropped her flowers to the ground as she was surrendering

herself to the darkness.

Chapter 14

“Are you serious Mom? Maybe you are making a mistake here” Bo

asked concerned. Caroline was about to answer when Roman

showed up “Ma what is taking Marlena so long? The guests are

starting to become agitated. I’m going to see what she is doing” he

said but Caroline stopped him before he could go farther “Roman wait!

There is something that I have to tell you about Marlena” “What is it?

Is she alright?” “I don’t know honey…she.. she is missing”

———————————–

Marlena could hardly move her fingers since the rope was too tight

knotted around her hands. She could hear her kidnapper moving

around in the room opening and closing drawers and doors. Although

blindfolded and scared she was determined not to show fear to him

“You sure are an asshole who ever you are! How could you kidnap

me? What are you? A psycho or something? You know if I were you I

would be very afraid right now because my fiancé is gonna search the

whole world to find us and when he does then if he’s not gonna kill

you first he will make sure to put your lousy ass into jail forever” she

said wanting to anger him so he would talk to her. She waited few

moments and when he didn’t answer her she let out an exasperated

sigh

————————————-

“What do you mean missing?” Roman asked in a panicked voice.

“Well I went to her room to make sure she was alright because she

was delaying and when I got there, she was nowhere. On the floor I

found these” Caroline said handing Roman the bouquet and a piece of

her wedding dress. “Roman are you alright?” Bo asked concerned

when he noticed how pale his brother became. “No I’m not alright. I’m

going to kill the SOB that kidnapped her” he said storming angrily out

of the room

————————————-

2 hours passed and Marlena was still blindfolded and tied on her

chair. Her kidnapper was still walking around it the room. She started

to become frustrated as time passed. She was about to yell at him

again when suddenly she felt him standing behind her stroking her

cheek with his finger and then she felt the blindfold to loosen up.

Seconds later the blindfold was away and she turned her head to see

her mysterious kidnapper. Her heart almost stopped when she saw

whom it was “OMG it’s you” she said shocked.

Chapter 15

“Oh my God it’s you” Marlena said shaking her head in disbelieve with

whom she had in front of her. “I guess you are surprised to see me. I

hope you are not too pissed with what I did… I guess you are..” John

said putting his hand on his cheek where Marlena slapped him few

seconds before. “Are you f**king crazy?” she shouted. “How could you

do this to me… and to Roman?” “I just did what I thought was right

and I’m not regretting it” “it isn’t right to kidnap me from my wedding to

make me change my mind” “If you remember I warned you not to

marry Roman but you didn’t listened to me and so I did what any red

blooded American male would do if his woman gives him a hard time”

“Kidnap her from her wedding to just prove his point?” “Yes” “Oh my

God you are really nuts you know that? Your family must be looking

for me by now…” “I don’t care if they are looking for you. I’m not letting

you go until we talk about this” “Talk about what damn it? You are

married why can’t you realize that. We can’t have a future” “We can.

As long as we both want this. I want this baby, I want to be with you so

much but the question is, do you wanna be with me? I want an honest

answer Marlena. It’s time to stop playing games and tell the truth. If

you really don’t feel anything for me then I’ll let you go and you can

return to Roman and marry him and I’ll stay forever out of your life, but

if you feel even the slightest thing for me, I wont let you go. Ever!”

“So what are you feelings for me baby?” John asked again when

Marlena didn’t answer. “Please we need to talk about it baby, please..”

After waiting for few more minutes for her to reply, he, disappointed

was ready to leave her when suddenly he stopped dead on his tracks

with what he heard “What did you say?” he asked in amazement

moving more towards her. “Marlena what did you just say?” “I …said

that I love you” she whispered while putting her head down. “You love

me” John repeated, a goofy smile on his face. “Yes…” “Oh baby you

don’t know how happy you made me” John said lifting her chin with his

index finger and looking her scare in her teary eyes” “Oh I love you

pretty lady” “I love you too John” Marlena managed to say before John

claimed her lips in a passionate but well promising for the future kiss.

After few minutes of kissing each other, Marlena pulled away “John

we can’t do this” “Why not baby?” “Because it’s not fair to either

Roman or Kristen” “And its fair for us to live apart? Is that what you

want?” “No” “Good because I don’t want to live apart from you” “Me

either but what are we gonna do?” “I’m going to talk to Kristen”

“What?” a shocked Marlena asked. “You heard me. What’s the reason

to delay this conversation between us? I want to clear this whole thing

out and then..” “Then what?” “Then I want us to start our new life

together. I want to marry you as soon as possible” “What??” “You

heard me baby. I want to marry you.” John said while kneeling in front

of her. “I know it’s too soon and that I’m still married to Kristen but,

Marlena Evans, love of my life will you do me the incredible honor of

becoming my wife once all this is cleared? Will you marry me” “Oh..

my… God I don’t…I don’t know what to.. say” Marlena said choking at

her tears “How about a yes?” “Oh God yes, yes thousand times yes”

“That’s all I wanted to hear” john said while taking her in his arms and

swinging her around.

After holding each other for long minutes and smiling at each other,

Marlena asked, “So what happens now?” “Now I’m going back to

Salem and I’ll talk first to Kristen and then to the entire family” John

said sighing heavily “Oh John they are gonna hate me, and especially

Roman and Kristen. I’m breaking her marriage up. I’m taking her

man.” “Baby my marriage was over before even you showed up, I just

hadn’t had the opportunity or the motivation to resolve it, but then you

came into my life and everything changed. Baby don’t worry so much

everything is going to be ok” John said trying to reassure her seeing

how worried she looked. “You just stay her, relax, start planning our

future and I’ll be back before you know it” John said giving her a sweet

kiss on the lips and then he disappeared leaving a worried Marlena

behind…

Chapter 16

Half an hour later John was entering the Black estate determined to

talk to Kristen about his relationship with Marlena. He knew that he

would break Kristen’s heart, and then there were the children but he

couldn’t leave Marlena. He loved her too much and he wanted to live

his life with her. She was the love of his life and he wouldn’t lose her

again.

He threw his keys on the table and went towards the living room

hoping to catch Kristen alone. His wish came true when he saw her

talking on the phone. Still dressed in that blue dress she wore in the

wedding. Taking a deep breath he walked towards her.

“No Caroline I still don’t know where Roman is. I’ll let you know if we

find anything new…Ok take care of yourself, bye” she said hanging up

the phone. “Honey where were you? I was looking for you” she said to

John when she saw him “Everyone is searching for Marlena, and then

Roman disappeared and we don’t know where he is..” “Kristen I need

to talk to you” John said cutting her off. “What is it? Is it about

Marlena?” she asked concerned “Yes…”

“Well what is it? Why aren’t you talking?” Kristen asked when she

noticed how hesitant John was to talk to her “Do you have news about

her? Is she all right? Where is she? Why did she leave from the

church that way?” “Hey, hey slow down. I will tell you everything.

Umm… are we alone?” he asked looking around “Yes everyone is at

your mother’s house. So tell me what is it? Is Marlena hurt?” “Umm no

she is not hurt” “So you know where she is” “Yes I do… she is at the

Horton cabin at Smith’s Island” “What is she doing there?” Kristen

asked confused.

“Umm Kristen there is something that I have to tell you. I’m.. I’m the

one who stopped the wedding by kidnapping Marlena and taking her

to the Horton cabin” “Why would you do that?” she asked although

she knew where this conversation was heading. “Because I wanted to

prevent her from making the mistake by marrying Roman.” “I don’t

understand” “I stopped her wedding to Roman because I’m in love

with her. Marlena and I love each other”

A gasp escaped from Kristen, disgusts written on her face, “You are

joking” she whispered barely audible. “I’m so sorry Kristen but I’m not

joking. I have a relationship with Marlena” “Affair you mean” “Umm

yes…” “How long is it going on?” she asked turning her back to him

“Umm..” “I asked you how long is it that its going on damn it!” she

yelled turning towards him. “A month now” “A month? You are

sleeping with that slut for over a month? Oh God!” “Kristen I’m so

sorry..” “Save it John!” she said moving away from him. “So you have

an affair with her. Just great! I put her into my house, I trusted her with

my children, my family and what did she do? She stabbed me on my

back! She slept with my husband!” “Kristen it’s not only Marlena’s

fault. The truth is that she tried to avoid me but I was pressuring her”

“Avoid you? Yeah right! Now you are going to say that is wasn’t her

fault. Oh God! And why did you tell me about your affair with her

now?” “Umm because I want a divorce…”

******************

2 hours passed and Marlena was getting worried because John didn’t

show up yet. She regretted that she didn’t go with him, to tell the truth

to the family together. After all she was as much responsible as John

was.

She was about to call his cell phone when suddenly she heard a car

stopping in front of the cabin. She rushed outside and saw John

coming towards the cabin. Immediately she jumped into his arms

asking him “How did it go?” “Not so good sweetheart” “What

happened?” “Let’s just say that Kristen didn’t take the news so good.

She was really pissed. Yelling, threatening, she trashed the house…”

“Oh dear God what did we do?” Marlena said starting to cry. “Come on

baby, let’s get inside, I brought you some clothes to wear. It’s time to

get out of this wedding gown”

Once Marlena had changed, she sat on the couch next to him. “Tell

me what happened” she asked rubbing her hand on his thigh. “Well

when I got there, she was alone and I told her the truth, she didn’t take

it very good. She was yelling, threatening me that if I chose you then I

wouldn’t see the children again” “Oh no John” “Baby relax its just her

anger that was talking. She won’t take the children away from me. She

is hurt but she is not a bad person. She would never do that” “I hope

you are right honey” she said snuggling closer to him. “She was

trashing the house when the family came into the house” “And so you

told them the truth…” “Kristen told them, I just confirmed it” “Oh I can

imagine how they react” Marlena said burring her face on her hands.

“They were in shock, Roman didn’t say a thing” “Roman?” “Yes, Bo

and Hope found him and they took him home and he heard

everything” “Oh John what did we do? We ruined the whole family.

They will hate us especially me” “Baby I won’t say that it will be easy

but we had to tell the truth since we want a future together “What will

happen with the children? They are gonna be so confused” “Don’t

worry sweetheart everything will work out fine, the children will accept

it “ “I hope so..” “Hey trust me everything will work out fine” he said

lifting her chin up and kissing her tenderly on the lips.

“I think its time to return to Salem” John said sighing heavily “Oh John

can’t we stay here?” “Baby we can’t hide from the family for ever” “I

know that just for tonight to let everyone calm down and tomorrow we

will return. Please?” “Allright you know I cant say no to you” he said

winking at her “I love you. You know that right? It’s not something that

will go away. My love for you is forever” she said hugging him really

tight. “I know that baby, and so is mine for you” he said kissing her

forehead. “Try to sleep a little, we have a big day tomorrow” he said

rubbing her back, knowing that doing that it always puts her to sleep

“Only when you sleep also” she said closing her eyes. “I promise” he

said kissing her head. “I love you baby” “I love you too John, so much

and I will never let you down” she said before she was driften to sleep

“I know baby, I know” he said closing his eyes,meeting her again in his

dreams…

Chapter 17

A month passed since the truth was revealed and things changed at

the Black estate. John filled for divorce, Kristen moved out but not

before she vowed to make their lives a living hell and although

Marlena was concerned, John tried to reassure her that her threats

were only threats because she was hurting and nothing more. As for

the children Cassie and Brady were ecstatic to learn that Marlena

would marry their daddy, they even started to call her mama making

Marlena to burst into tears the first time she heard them say that little

but meaningful word. Sami, Eric and Carrie were confused with that

situation and even angry at the beginning but after they all talked they

started to realize that their former nanny was in love with their uncle,

so they tried to make peace. Roman from the other hand took that

break up pretty good telling everyone that he was fine and that he

should have known that something like this would happen and he

couldn’t keep them apart. So he gave them their blessing.

Marlena was with John at Salem place looking at wedding cakes since

they decided to get married at the end of the month. After looking

about thousands of wedding cakes they both decided for a third floor

cake with strawberries and whipped cream on it.

After they finished with their shopping, John excused himself and left

her alone for a while letting her gaze at the wedding dresses

imagining her in those. “You can dream as long as you want because

that is exactly what your wedding will be just a dream. It is never going

to happen” Marlena turned abruptly and saw Kristen standing in front

of her staring her angrily. “You know Marlena, you think that you have

won but it’s not over. You might have won the battle but not the war.

John might be blind by you right now but soon he will realize the

mistake he did and he will return to me and you will left alone” “Kristen

I never…” “Shut up Marlena!!” Kristen yelled getting the attention of

the near ones “Shut up! For ones you will hear me out. You know I

thought you were a good person but you are a witch. You took my

children away from me. You took my husband away from me just

because you opened your legs to him but that doesn’t mean anything.

You are a slut John will realize that and then he will return to me and

you can count on that you little bitch” “Kristen please…” Marlena

whispered feeling afraid of her and wishing that John would come

soon “That’s right Marlena, start begging because that is exactly what

you are going to do from now on” “Kristen that is enough!” John said

going towards Marlena’s side and hugging her really tight. Marlena let

a sigh of relief and hugged him more tightly thanking him for showing

1. “Kristen I think you should leave. It would be better for everyone” “I

will don’t worry John, I’m not in the mood to stay here and chat any

longer with her. I even get sick by just looking at her, but I will tell you

this Marlena…leave John alone now or else you will regret it. You will

learn the real me and believe me you wouldn’t like that at all…” “That’s

enough. Leave now Kristen. Right now” John said angrily feeling

Marlena shiver because of her threats

“Baby are you alright?” he asked Marlena seeing how much Kristen’s

threats did impact her “Could you please hold me?” she said shyly “Of

course come here” he said taking her in his arms. After holding her for

long minutes he asked her if she was alright and if they should leave.

She nodded her head and then putted on his shoulder as they were

leaving from Salem place

*****

“John this isn’t the way back home” she said looking out of the window

car. “I know sweetheart, I just thought it would be nice to go

somewhere, where we could be alone” he said smiling lovingly at her

*****************

Meanwhile Kristen who returned home picked up the phone and

dialed a number. After three rings someone picked it up and Kristen

answered “Stefano..its Kristen. I need your help. Where can I meet

you?”

****************

“15 minutes later John stopped his car, got out and opened her door.

Once she stepped outside he took a blindfold out of his jacket and

putted on her eyes despite her protests.

They walked for 5 minutes and then they stopped when he opened a

door. Marlena assumed that it was a door but wasn’t so sure. John

stood in front of her kissing her tenderly on the lips. “Hmm why was

that for?” Marlena asked licking her lips “Just thanking your for being

such a good sport” he said chuckling “John can I take the blindfold off”

she asked in a childish way. “Yes baby you can” he said chuckling

again. “Hmm John where are we?” Marlena asked once she saw that

she was standing in the middle of an empty house. “Welcome to our

new house baby” he said showing her the entire building “New

house?” “Yep. I bought it today and thought to surprise you” “Oh John

that is why you left today from my side” “Yes I wanted to make sure

everything would be perfect for your surprise. So surprise! Hey, hey

don’t cry” he said taking her in his arms “Don’t worry they are happy

tears” she said sniffling her nose and laughing at the same time “So

you like your surprise?” “Oh I love it but mostly I love you” she said

crying again wondering how this man could turn her insides to mush.

“You wanna see the house?” “Of course. Hmm but from where should

we start?” “How about the bedrooms?” he asked smiling

mischievously and dragging her towards the stairs

Once they were there John showed her all the rooms the house had

on the top floor. “Hmm John everything is so nice but I have a

question” “Ok shoot. What’s the question?” “I noticed that there are a

lot of bedrooms on this floor, if I’m not wrong they are 6” “Yep you are

right they are 6” “Ok and why so many?” “For us and our children of

course” “Yeah but aren’t they a lot for just the four of us?” “Who said

anything about four people?” “And about how many are we talking?”

“Eight!” “Eight? And who are these four more people?” she asked

although afraid of what she might hear “Our children of course” he

said with proudly “Children?” “Well yeah, I know that it is too soon but I

really would like to have more children with you in the future” “Really?”

“Of course. You don’t?” “Of course but…” “But what?” “I’m scared”

“why?” “Well I’m afraid of having children. I know that I raise Brady

and Cassie but I never gave birth to it and it really frightens me. I’m

afraid that I won’t be a good mother” “Sweetheart you are a terrific

mother, look how much the little ones adore you. you have nothing to

worry about. But if you don’t feel ready to have children, we can wait, I

have no problem. The only thing I can think right now is how much I

love you, our wedding day, our children and making this house our

home” “Thank you honey for understanding” she said sighing in relief

kissing him tenderly on the lips.

Soon the kiss turned more passionately while both started to moan.

“Honey, how about we christen our new house?” John asked

breathing heavy and starting to unbutton her blouse. “Oh honey that is

the best idea I’ve ever heard today” Marlena said lowering herself to

the floor taking him with her. As fast as they could, they took their

clothes off leaving only the underwear on. John took her leg and

started to plant kisses on her toes, ankle, leg, and thigh coming closer

to his destination. Looking her square in the eyes he took her bra and

panties off. Not wasting time he took her breast in his mouth suckling

and kissing tenderly her nipples while Marlena was trying to remove

his boxers. He wanted to give her so much pleasure but her

impassionate pleas to hurry were his undoing and after finding out that

she was more that ready, he entered her. Both of their eyes snapping

shut enjoying this incredible feeling. Knowing that both were heading

to their climax John started to thrust more forceful into her earning

whimpers from her before they reached their destination.

Seated and spend the couple was still lying on the floor John’s head

on her breasts enjoying the afterglow. Their eyes met, both smiling

with satisfaction while John stated “well that is what I call proper

christening” . Both started to laugh. Few minutes later Marlena took

his face and tenderly kissed him while whispering “Don’t ever leave

me” “Don’t worry about that, you are stuck with me forever” he said

kissing her again and putting his head on her chest, both falling asleep

moments later…

******************

Three hours later John and Marlena, returned home in a good mood,

smiling at each other all the time remembering what happened

between them few hours ago. Caroline went into the living room and

saw the couple tease and kiss each other. Hating to interrupt them but

not having other choice she cleared her throat to get their attention.

“What’s up Mom?” John asked putting his hands around Marlena’s

waist. “Children I’m afraid that I have bad news for you” she said

sighing heavy “Well what is it?” “Its about Kristen..” “What about her

Caroline?” Marlena asked feeling scared of what she might hear

“Hmm there is no easy way to say this… so I will say it straight…

Kristen is dead”…

Chapter 18

One year later

Caroline was pacing nervously in the living room looking at her watch

every 5 minutes. “Where are they?” she asked Roman who was sitting

on his chair reading his book. “Mom will you relax? They are coming

from Europe so it is natural that they will be late a little” Roman said

rolling his eyes and returning in reading his book. “I know that but I’m

still worried” she said looking her watch again. Roman could only

shake his head.

Kristen’s death shocked everyone a year ago. The police had

informed them that Kristen’s car went off a cliff in Mexico. The only

thing they could safe was her ID and that’s how they found them and

told them the news. Marlena didn’t take the news so good, she was

really shocked and in the end she blamed herself for Kristen’s death.

All that time John tried to reassure her that it wasn’t her fault and that

Kristen would never kill herself and it was an accident. Marlena still

couldn’t get over it and so she tried to break up with John but he

wouldn’t let that happen. In the end she realized that he was right and

she tried to move on with him and become a family like they always

wanted. Because of Kristen’s death they had to postpone the wedding

again for 2 months. John got frustrated so he took Marlena and the

children and they went to Europe. One week later the family learned

that Marlena and John got married and would stay in Europe for a

year. And now they were returning back to Salem

~~~

“Mr. Black we are about to land” the pilot announced. “Ok thank you

Hank” John said putting the receiver at its place. “Ok everyone we are

about to land so take your places, “ he said to his family.

After 20 minutes the Black family was in their car heading towards the

Estate. They children were sleeping exhausted from the trip. John

glanced over at his wife and could see that something was troubling

her “Sweetheart what is it?” “I’m just thinking what our return to Salem

will mean, that’s all” “Huh?” “Well we left Salem without saying a thing

to them and then got married without them being there and now we

return, they most really be pissed with us” “Sweetie they understand

why we did it. Remember I talked to them they aren’t pissed. Sad yes

but not pissed. They are happy about us so you have nothing to worry

about” “Did you tell them the news about me?” she asked “No I didn’t.

I thought about telling them but it would be better to surprise them” he

said winking at her

~~~

“They are here, they are here” announced Caroline happily to the rest

of the family. Everyone was gathered there to congratulate the couple.

Sami, Eric and Shaw Douglas went outside the house to greed them

first and to see Cassie and Brady again.

Few minutes later Cassie came running into the house getting hugs

and kisses from everyone. “Where is your brother and parents

Munchkin?” Hope asked. “They are outside getting few things from the

car” Cassie replied “Could someone please help us here?” Everyone

turned their heads and saw John and Marlena coming into the house.

John carrying the suitcases, and Marlena having Brady in her arms.

Roman and Bo volunteered and took some of it much to John’s

obvious relief. Although Brady was tired from the trip, when he saw

everyone again he was suddenly full of energy squirming in Marlena’s

arms. So she put him down hearing suddenly gasps from everywhere.

She blushed when she saw that she got their attention. John realizing

her discomfort hugged her, saying to everyone “Surprise! We are

pregnant”….

Chapter 19

“You know you are going to be the death of me” John whispered

exhausted while Marlena who was on top of him was caressing his

sweaty face. “Yeah but what a sweet way to go hmm?” she asked

rolling off of him and sitting on her side covering her naked flesh with

the sheet. “You know Mrs. Black for a seven almost eight month

pregnant woman you are really good in bed” “Why thank you for the

compliment” Marlena said kissing his cheek “How do you do that to

me?” “I had a really good teacher” she said smiling at him “Oh really?”

he asked loving every minute of their little game “Yep” “And what did

that teacher teach you?” “All the secrets of lovemaking” she said

putting her head to his heart, which was beating, normal again. John

smiled caressing her golden hair “I love you Marlena” needing to say it

to her “I love you too, so very much” she replied closing her eyes and

kissing lightly his chest.

“You know you are almost 8 months pregnant and we haven’t found a

name for our son” John said cutting the silence “Isn’t is a little too soon

for names?” “Nope don’t thinks so” “Ok, then lets think of names.

Have you thought of any?” “As a matter of fact I did…what do you say

about Benjamin… you don’t like that name?” John asked seeing

Marlena frowning “No not really” she answered shyly “Ok then you tell

me a name” “Alrighty… Hmm how about Adam?” “Hehe” “You like?”

Marlena asked full of hopes “Nope wife of mine” “Fine, we can find a

name, it can’t be so difficult. Ok we will choose a name from every

letter of the alphabet and the name we will have in common that will

be our son’s name. Deal?” “Deal” “Ok A. I said Adam” “Albert” “What?

No I’m not naming my son Albert” “Why? what is wrong with Albert?

And since when is he only your son? If I remember correctly you had

some help” he said smiling at her mischievously “You are impossible

you know that?” Marlena said crossing her hands in front of her chest

“Lets go to B” she said rolling her eyes “Benjamin” “Bruce” “Where do

you find these names?” Marlena asked shocked” John decided to

ignore her picking the next name “Hmm for C, Chuck” “Charles” “Next”

“D” “Ok bring it on baby” he said “Hmm how about Doug?”

“Nope..Donald?” “Are you crazy? I’m not naming our son Donald. Ok I

give up. We can’t find a proper name” Marlena said starting to get

frustrated “How about Theodore?” John asked “Goodnight John”

Marlena said turning from the other side “Ok then tell me another

name” “Ok fine..How about Jason? Ok I can see that you don’t like it”

“It’s ok but..” “But not the proper name for your son?” Marlena teased.

“Wow aren’t we sarcastic at 3 in the night. Ok one last try hmm so

what do you say?” giving her a goofy smile “Fine one last try” Marlena

said exasperated. Few minutes passed unspoken both trying to find

the right name “How about Daniel?” “You like Daniel?” both said the

same time causing them to laugh, “I like Daniel” “Me too. So Daniel

John it is” he said winking at her “Daniel John?” Marlena asked rolling

her eyes “Well of course” John replied proudly “I’m just kidding baby”

he said laughing hard “You know what?” “What?” “I kind of like that”

“Really?” “Really. Daniel John Black” “Yeah DJ for short… Now that

we settled with the name how about little dance?” “What? are you

crazy?” Marlena asked in shock “Is it 3 in the morning” “So? Come on

dance with me” he said while heading towards the stereo putting a

slow music to play “Fine but if I will be cranky tomorrow then it will be

your fault” Marlena said getting up from bed and putting her nightgown

on.

John took her hand in his and placed it on his heart “You hear it?” he

asked her “Yes” “That is the beating of my heart. And it beats only for

you because you are the one that makes my life worth living” “Oh

honey you touch me so” Marlena said placing her head on his chest

and closing her eyes few tears falling from her eyes, while the lyrics of

Because you loved me filled the room

For all those times you stood by me

For all the truth that you made me see

For all the joy you brought to my life

For all the wrong that you made right

For every dream you made come true

For all the love I found in you

I’ll be forever thankful baby

You’re the one who held me up

Never let me fall

You’re the one who saw me through through it all

Marlena raised her head to see her husband for a few moments while

he was singing the lyrics and staring at her in the eyes while

whispering, “I love you” to her”

You were my strength when I was weak

You were my voice when I couldn’t speak

You were my eyes when I couldn’t see

You saw the best there was in me

Lifted me up when I couldn’t reach

You gave me faith ’cause you believed

I’m everything I am

Because you loved me

She placed her head again oh his chest closing her eyes murmuring

the lyrics also and just been happy for been blessed with this

incredible man.

You gave me wings and made me fly

You touched my hand I could touch the sky

I lost my faith, you gave it back to me

You said no star was out of reach

You stood by me and I stood tall

I had your love I had it all

I’m grateful for each day you gave me

Maybe I don’t know that much

But I know this much is true

I was blessed because I was loved by you

You were my strength when I was weak

You were my voice when I couldn’t speak

You were my eyes when I couldn’t see

You saw the best there was in me

Lifted me up when I couldn’t reach

You gave me faith ’cause you believed

I’m everything I am

Because you loved

You were always there for me

The tender wind that carried me

A light in the dark shining your love into my life

You’ve been my inspiration

Through the lies you were the truth

My world is a better place because of you

You were my strength when I was weak

You were my voice when I couldn’t speak

You were my eyes when I couldn’t see

You saw the best there was in me

Lifted me up when I couldn’t reach

You gave me faith ’cause you believed

I’m everything I am

Because you loved me

You were my strength when I was weak

You were my voice when I couldn’t speak

You were my eyes when I couldn’t see

You saw the best there was in me

Lifted me up when I couldn’t reach

You gave me faith ’cause you believed

I’m everything I am

Because you loved me

I’m everything I am

Because you loved me

As the music was fading away John decided that it was time to get

Marlena in bed so she could rest “wake up honey, its time for bed” he

said kissing her gently on the forehead “Marlena wake up. Baby?”

John asked starting to feel worried because she wasn’t answering. He

looked down and saw that although she had her eyes closed she was

frowning. He knew that something wasn’t right and after he scooped

her in his arms he took her to bed, lying her carefully down. It was the

first time that he saw it. Her nightgown was covered with blood “Oh

dear God please no” John whispered wrapping Marlena with a blanket

and heading with her towards the hospital while whispering all the time

“Dear God please don’t let anything happen to her, please” “John,

something is happening with the baby” Marlena murmured before

darkness surrounded her….

Chapter 20

“There he is…John!” Caroline shouted seeing her son sitting in a chair

at the waiting room and heading towards him “Mom!” John said

heading towards his family still shaking with the incident. “What

happened?” Shawn asked “I ..I..I don’t really know, one minute we are

ok..laughing..been happy …names…then couldn’t wake her…blood”

“Oh honey..” Caroline said taking him in her arms “The kids oh my god

I left the kids alone” “Don’t worry about that son, they are fine, Bo and

Hope went to babysit them. They told us that the little one’s didn’t hear

a thing. What did the doctor say about Marlena” “I didn’t talk to him,

they are still inside..oh mom she lost so much blood.. I’m so

scared…”he said breaking down “Son she is a fighter she will get

trough this” Shawn tried to reassure him “Dear God please don’t let

anything happen to her. I can’t handle that”

***********

3 hours passed and the family was still waiting news about Marlena’s

condition. John was almost to the point to break down, going insane

“What the hell are the doing so long? Why doesn’t somebody inform

us?” he asked frustrated

Half and hour later John was about to storm into the room and find the

doctor when he came outside. The whole family rushed over to him

anxious to hear news “Dr. Miller how is my wife?” fear never leaving

his voice “Ummm your wife is very serious Mr. Black. She lost a lot of

blood, she is weak. Now we are trying to do everything to stop the

bleeding” “Oh dear God no, no no” he said shaking his head leaning

on his stepfather not to fall to the ground “How about the baby?”

Caroline asked, “They are both serious and …there is a change that

he doesn’t make it. I’m so sorry.. I wish I had better news to give you.

I’ll try my best but it all depends on Marlena. I’ll keep you updated if

there are news” Shawn thanked him while John was sinking on a chair

holding his head with his hands. “This is all my damn fault” he said

staring towards the door where Marlena was taken care “What?” his

parents asked confused “I said it is my damn fault that she is there.

Because I wouldn’t let her sleep. First I made love to her, then we

were trying to find names for the baby and at the end I asked her to

dance with me in the middle of the night although I knew she was

tired. Damn me” he said angrily standing up from his seat and passing

around “John stop that. It wasn’t your fault honey. I’m sure this isn’t

the reason why she had that bleeding” Yes it is!” John shouted back “It

is my fault, and now my wife is paying the prize”

************

The next day

“Hi sweetheart.” John said kissing Marlena’s lips and trying not to cry

again “Oh baby I’m so sorry for my stupidity. I should have let you rest

but I just wanted to spend those hours with you…you know the doctor

told me that you are getting better, that the bleeding stopped. That is

really great news sweetheart. The only thing you have to do is wake

1. Please wake up for me. I need you. Our children need you, the

whole family needs you, you can’t disappoint them, you have to wake

1. We have to tell them what name we chose for our baby. You have

to wake up, and later, after you have given birth to our son then we

can go a trip to Colorado to see your parents. I’m sure they would love

to meet their new grandson. You could show me around, where you

grew up, the school you went, just having fun with the children. You

know, Brady is asking for you. He thinks that we are hiding you from

him and he is really pissed with us, so you have to wake up so we can

bring him to you so he can see his beautiful mama again. Please

baby, do me this favor and I’ll never ask for anything else. Just please

wake up for me. I love you so much and I need you like crazy. Please

come back to me” …

Chapter 21

“Wait! Don’t run so fast!” “Catch me if you can” “Oh I can honey and

once I’ll have you I’ll never let you go away from me again. I got you

now! You are mine Marlena” “I’m yours John, as you are mine. Oh I

love you so much. Oh John, oh John”…

“John? John. Wake up John!” “What? What? Marlena?” he asked

jumping from his seat when he felt a woman’s hand on his shoulder

“Its me John” “Oh mom” John said starting to come back to reality

after his dream. He glanced around and saw his wife lying on the bed;

the sound of then monitor besides her the only thing that indicated that

she still was alive. “You were dreaming about Marlena?” “Yes, how do

you know this?” “You were murmuring her name in your sleep. Honey

you look exhausted. Why don’t you go home and rest a little? I will

stay here” “I’m not leaving from her side mom. Not until she wakes up”

“You really love her isn’t so?” “She is everything to me. She completes

1. She makes me so happy. I know it was wrong what we did while I

was married to Kristen…”

“Honey I will admit that it wasn’t right but all this is in the past now.

You are married to Marlena and you are expecting a child together”

“Yes you are right mom. Why don’t you go home? I’ll call you if there

is a change ok? “But honey…” “Please mom. Do this for me and

check on the children if they are behaving themselves for Bo and

Hope”

“John are you su…. Honey what is it?” Caroline asked when she saw

that John was staring pass her towards Marlena’s direction. Before

she could ask again she saw John heading towards Marlena’s side

who was coming around

“Baby? Honey?” “Johnny?” “Yes its me baby” he said a little surprised

that she called him that way. She never called him Johnny, not even in

the most private moments. He could see that she was tring to talk but

he urged her to be quiet and rest “I’ll get the doctor” he said, “No

please stay with me” Marlena whispered grabing his hand. “I just need

you close to me” “Oh you know I’m not going anywhere. I told you that

you are stuck with me forever” “I like the sound of that” she said

closing her eyes again a smile on her face. “You just rest. Oh I love

you so” “I love you too Johnny” before falling asleep again. John

turned his head towards his mother who was smiling “She is finally

back. I’ll go tell this wonderful news the rest of the family” “Thank you

Mom”

In the night the doctor checked on Marlena and told the family that she

was getting better and that the baby was ok. The family happy to hear

that tried to convince John to go home and rest a little but he refused

1. He went to Marlena’s room who was sleeping and sat on the chair

just staring at her and thanking God for been blessed by having her in

his life.

Sometime during the night Marlena woke up again and she saw John

dozing off and so she told him to go home and rest. He of course

refused and Marlena suggested that he should sleep in her bed, next

to her. John wasn’t so sure about this but eventually she convinced

him and they two snuggled together on the bed finally falling in a

peacefull sleep.

The next morning a nurse went to see how Marlena was doing and

smiled when she saw the couple sleeping, smiles on their faces. She

even saw that John who had his eyes closed brought Marlena closer

to him and kissed tenderly her head while murmuring something. The

nurse smiling stepped outside of the room not wanting to disturb them

and closed the door leaving the couple to sleep, knowing that the only

thing this patiend needed to get better was her husband….

Chapter 22

“Oh Geez! This is a hospital and not a motel”. Marlena and John who

were busy sharing passionate kisses upon the bed turned abruptly

their heads when they heard Bo’s voice. “Like always lousy timing bro”

John said climbing off the bed and buttoning the three buttons of his

shirt where Marlena had her hand few minutes ago, caressing his

chest. Deciding to ignore his brother’s complains Bo entered the room

“I guess you must be feeling better Marlena” “Yes I feel better”

Marlena replied fixing her hair a little bit blushing from head to toe.

“So where is Hope?” John asked deciding to end this akward moment.

“She is outside. We have a surprise for you Marlena” “What kind of

surprise?” “Ok wait and I’ll get it and please, please don’t start with the

smutching again. I don’t think my stomach can hadle that” he said

teasing them, making Marlena blush, “Just get the surprise

Beauregard” John said.

Once Bo was gone, John grabed Marlena lightly from her hospital

gown bringing her lips towards his. “Now where were we?” “John…Bo

said” trying not to attack him with kisses “I don’t care what Bo said”

John murmured kissing her again. When the need for oxygen became

necessary they broke from their kiss, “I love you so much sweetheart,

I love you both” John said placing his hand upon her round tummy. “I

love you too John” before capturing his lips again in a tender kiss.

“We are coming in now!!” Marlena and John heard Bo yelling from

outside the door warning them. So they reluctant broke apart John

murmuring some words making Marlena laugh, “John really behave

yourself” she teased him. He was about to answer that when suddenly

two little people came running into the room yelling “Mommy, mommy”

all the time.

“Oh my babies!” Marlena said tears in her eyes taking Brady and

Cassie in her arms kissing and hugging them. John and Bo standing

there smiling seeing the children so happy. “Thanks Bo” “No problem

Bro” “I heard that you were giving your uncle Bo and aunt Hope a hard

time Brady, why sweetie?” “Because I couldn’t see you and I thought

they were hiding you from me” Brady replied putting his head down

ashamed. “First of all, never be ashamed to talk to me about anything

alright? I want to see your sweet face when I talk to you and secondly

they would never do such I thing. They know how much I love you,

both of you; they would never do anything to make you sad. I am your

mommy and always will be. I will always be by your side to love you

and guide you and that wont change. Ok?” “Ok mommy”

“Well if it isn’t a nice picture” “Laura” Marlena said seeing her best

friend at the door. “Hey Laura” “Hi John” she said stepping closer to

him and giving him a kiss on the cheek while whispering on his ear

“Are you alright darling?” “I’m fine” he replied squezzing her had with

gratitude and giving her a smile. After greeting Bo also Laura went

towards Marlena “You know Mar I didn’t came here alone” “The others

are with you?” “Yeah” “And why are they waiting outside, bring them

in, bring them in” “Are you sure, I don’t think its good to have to many

people here” “I’m sure. I want to see them”

Little time later Maggie, Lexie and Hope came into the room hugging

and kissing Marlena. Marlena was so touched that she couldn’t hide

her tears from them anymore.

Feeling out of place John and Bo decided to leave so that the ladies

could be alone to chat. They went to the hospital garden and sat on a

bench. “I want to thank you again for bringing the kids. I know this

made Marlena very happy” “You don’t have to thank me John it was

our pleasure. The kids were really happy to see their mom” “Yeah they

love her so much and they missed her a lot” “Yeah…How are you

holding up?” “I’m ok” “You didn’t rest at all” “I will once the baby is

born and I can take them with me home” “Oh Bro have you forgotten?

That’s when all starts. The 4 o clock in the night feedings, diapers,

cryings..” “And you don’t miss it?” “Hell no” Bo replied looking John

like he was crazy “You and Hope aren’t considering having more

children now that Shawn D is older?” “Well we talked about it and we

decided that we don’t want more children. We are happy the way we

are” “I want a house full of children” “And what does Marlena say

about your plans?” “She agreed. Really she did” John tried to reassure

Bo who was looking him suspusious. “There it is again” “What?” asked

John confused “The sparkle in your eyes when you talk about

Marlena. You love her a lot isn’t so?” “I adore her Bo. Marlena for me

is the beginning the middle and the end. I never felt this way before. I

know that I loved Isabella and she gave me Brady and Cassie, but

what I feel for Marlena is so strong, so powerful..I don’t think I can

describe it” “And you don’t have to, your eyes say it all. Who would

have thought that you would become a poet for Marlena’s sake” Bo

said winking at his brother. Deciding to ignore him, John said, “I think

its time to head back”

“Whats all this?” John asked seeing the room in such a mess “Oh well

we decided to give Marlena her baby shower here” replied Lexie.

“Honey look what the girls gave me” Marlena said showing to her

husband a beautiful blue blanket. After thanking them John deciced

that it was time for the kids to return home. Despite their protests,

Cassie and Brady had to give in and Bo and Hope took them back

home.

Realizing that the couple would like to be alone Laura , Lexie and

Maggie made their hasty departure promising to see her soon. Once

settle on the bed and having his wife in his arms John asked

“So..What were you ladies talking about?” “Oh john you don’t really

expect that I answer that do you?” “Why not? We are husband and

wife so we must tell everything” “Nice try Black but it didn’t work” “Oh

baby believe me I will find out. And I know why you don’t want to tell

1. You were talking about men” “Oh please john…” “I’m right am I?

These big men from the gym that was what you were talking about”

“We weren’t talking about men. We were talking about the children

and about our wedding. Why are you laughing now?” Marlena asked

confused and exasperated with John’s antics. “I knew that I could

make you tell me” “Oh shit” only then Marlena realized that it was

John’s game all along to hear it. “John Black you are so sneaky. You

are a bad example for the children” By now John was laughing

histerical “Shut up John” “Make me baby” Marlena attacked him with

kisses and soon his laughs turned to moans. Much to John’s dismay

Marlena pulled away few minutes later, gazing at him while tracing her

index finger over his lips. “God you are so handsome” she wishpered

starting to get aroused by just looking at him. “Oh so are you baby, so

are you” he said taking her more in his arms and kissing her on her

forhead. “Baby I think its time to sleep and you my dear mama to be

need your beauty sleep” “Only if you stay here with me” “I promise.

Sleep now” “can I ask you something?” “Sure” “can we go later in the

garden? I got sick of staying in that room all the time” “I’ll ask your

doctor about this but now you have to sleep” “Okay” Marlena said

closing her eyes while John continued to rub her back

**********************

3 hours later Marlena and John were sitting on the bench in the

garten. “Are you feeling better now that you are outside?” “Yeah oh I

missed the fresh air. What?” she asked when she saw John looking at

her “I just find it difficult to realize that you are mine. I’m so gratefull

that I have you” “Oh baby you are so sweet. My sweet romantic poet.

What?” Marlena asked again when she saw John smiling “It’s the

second time today that I hear that I’m a poet. Bo told me that earlier

too” “Oh gosh you are telling Bo poems when I’m not around? Should

I be worried?” John didn’t say anything he was just looking at her with

that dreamy look “So you and Bo were talking about me” “Yeah” “I

hope all good” “The best. I just told him how happy you are making

me” Marlena was touched few tears making their presence known

“Can you tell me a poem now?” after few minutes of thinking John

replied “I looked the sky to find that special star but it was missing, I

looked on the earth and I found it in you” By now Marlena couldn’t

hold her tears back and she hugged him real tight.

Half an hour later they were heading back to the hospital John

pushing her wheelchair when Marlena told him that she would like to

see the babies. Of course he couldn’t refuse to her and they went

there. They saw a woman nursing her baby who smiled at them when

she noticed the couple. “Can you believe that I’ll be doing this with our

child?” “You mean brestfeeding?’ “Yeah. Why you don’t like the idea”

“You know I do its just that you took a lot of medicine and I don’t know

if it is allowed” “I’ll ask the doctor about it. But I really would like to

breastfeed our son. I don’t want to miss that mother child bond” “Oh

honey when I think that I can’t love you more you prove me wrong. I

adore you”

Suddenly Marlena’s smile disappeared and john noticed that she was

pale “Baby you ok?” he asked conserned “John please take me to my

room” Panic overcame him and as fast as he could he took her there,

he laid her on her bed and went to get the doctor who was just

passing by. When the doctor and John came in, Marlena’s gown was

covered with blood. Dr. Miller didn’t waste more time and he took

Marlena to the OR.

John and the family stayed at her room anxious to hear news. John

felt shivers run down his spine still not believing that it happened

again. He was pacing around getting more anxious as time was

passing. Suddenly the doctor came to the room his clothes covered

with blood his face unreadable. “How is my wife doctor?” John asked

shaking “I’m so sorry Mr. Black”…

Chapter 23

“I’m so sorry. We did everything we could it just wasn’t enough”

“Marlena?” “No Mrs Brady, the baby” “What happened?” asked Bo.

“The baby was already dead by the time we delivered it” “Oh dear God

no” “And how is Marlena?” “She is very weak, she lost a lot of blood

but we managed to stop it. She will be weak for few more days but

eventually physically she will get fine” “Does she know about the

baby?” “Yes she does, and she went histerical and that is why we had

to give her a sedative” “I want to see her” said John firlmly, speaking

for the first time after hearing the news. “I’m sorry Mr. Black but I

don’t..” “I think you didn’t understand me. I said I want to see my wife

and I want to see her right now” “Umm then follow me please”

John opened quietly the door of his wife’s room. He went inside,

closed the door behind him and sat on the chair. He gasped when he

saw how pale, just how fragile she looked. Gently he took her hand in

his trying not to squeez it much and he brought it to his lips “Oh baby”

with the other hand he started to stroke her hair tenderly. His touch

caused Marlena to wake up. “Hey baby” giving her small smile trying

to cover that way his pain from her. “How are you feeling?” “I lost the

baby” she whispered touching her now flat tummy. “I know I’m so

sorry sweetheart” Not knowing what else to say in a moment like this

“Oh please don’t cry, please that isn’t good for you” “I feel so empty” “I

wish there was something that I could do for you” “Can you bring my

baby back?” she asked him. John turned his head from the other side

trying to hide his tears from her “You can’t bring our son back, so no

you can’t do anything” “Marlena..” “Save it John. Nomatter what you

will say, it won’t take away the pain that I feel right now” “I know that.

I’m just trying to help you. I’m your husband and I want to be by your

side for this. We have to deal this together”

Marlena pulled her hand out of John’s and turned from the other side.

Few moments later she spoke again, her back still towards him

“John?” “yeah” “Can you do me a favor?” “sure just name it” “Could

you please leave? I would like to be alone for a while” “Marlena I don’t

think it is right…” “Please I just have to be alone. Please leave”

“Alright but if you need me I’ll be right outside your door ok?” she

didn’t reply.

John reluctant stepped outside the room, closing the door behind him.

Few seconds later he heard Marlena’s sobs from inside. He wanted so

much to go in there, hold her, comfort her, and just be there these

difficult hours but she didn’t want that and he had to respect her

wishes. “Oh dear God don’t let her slip away from me. give us

strength”….

Chapter 24

2 months passed from the day that John and Marlena buried their

newborn son Daniel John Black. The ceremony was beautiful, with a

lot of people coming to give their condolence and support to the

couple. John was the one that made the arrangements for the funeral

since Marlena was in no position to do it. She spent those days with

her parents who came to see them, the children and her best friends,

which were comfort for her those tough days.

It was 3 in the night and John unable to sleep went to the kitchen to

drink some milk. On the counter he found a bottle of whiskey. He took

it and went towards the living room. After he lighted the fire at the

fireplace, he grabed a glass and sat down on the floor watching the

flames. Soon his thoughts were driften to all of what had happen the

last and half year. How he met Marlena, their affair, how he kidnapped

her from her wedding to Roman, his proposal, their wedding and

honeymoon and their stay in Europe with the children. Their return to

Salem and her pregnancy. How everything went wrong and the loss of

their child. If it weren’t for his parents and her parents to help him out,

he would have gone insane.

He was brushing his tears when suddenly he felt a woman’s hand on

his shoulder. He turned around and saw his mother in law standing

there and smiling at him, a smile which remind him so much of

Marlena

“You can’t sleep dear?”

“No I can’t. What are you doing here Martha, its late”

“I was thirsty and I was about to go to the kitchen when I saw light

coming from the living room. I suspected that it would be you. You ok

John?”

“Just peachy. I’m sorry Martha I shouldn’t talk to you that way”

“Never apologize to me.” she said while sitting next to him. “I know

you are hurting and I wish there was something I could do to help you

two”

“You are such a good person Martha and I’m so greatfull that you and

Frank came here. You helped me a lot. More that you could ever

know”

“You are our son in Law John and we love you just because we know

that you are a good person who would do anything to spare Marlena

from her pain”

“If I could take her pain away I would do it in a heartbeat Martha. I love

her so much, I never want to see her suffer”

“Oh honey that is impossible. Pain is a part of our life. We can’t avoid

it, but we can be there for the other in those difficult times and give our

support”

“ How can I support her Martha if she doenst talk to me anymore? She

avoids me. I see her less and less as time goes by. She spends all her

time with the children, her friends and you. I barely see her. In the

mornings I’m at my office, in the noons she is busy with the kids or her

friends and in the nights she turns her back towards me when we

sleep. You know I don’t want to sound selfish here, but it has been

weeks since the last time we made love. I’m not saying that because I

miss the sex. No it’s not that, it’s just, at those moments the only thing

that exists is Marlena and I. We shut the rest of the world and and we

spend those moments together, giving everything to the other, trusting

the other, our souls are touchin at those moments. And now we don’t

have those moments anymore. I know you are going to say that she

needs time to heal, but I gave her this time Martha, and she only grew

apart from me. And I know why she does this. She hates me and she

blames me for everything”

“What? What are you talking about?” Martha asked surprised.

“Marlena doesn’t blame you and she sure doesn’t hate you. She is just

hurting”

“She blames me Martha I know that, and she has a point”

“Why are you saying that?”

“You know when we were engaged we talked about children and she

told me that she was afraid of having kids and she thought it would be

better if we would wait, but I wanted kids right away and she got

pregnant few months after our wedding. She was afraid during her

pregnancy and I didn’t do anything to help her with those fears”

“Darling that is ridiculous. You were there for her. And believe me she

wanted children just as much as you. So please don’t blame yourself”

“So then why isn’t she talking to me? Why does she avoid me? I feel

like our marriage is falling apart”

“Oh John don’t talk that way. She will come to you when the time is

right. Have faith in you and in her.”

“I sure hope you are right Martha because I don’t want to lose her but I

have this feeling that she is slipping away from me.”…

Chapter 25

After his discussion with both Martha and Caroline, John decided to

take matters in his onw hands; he would try to save his marriage. He

was going to talk to Marlena..

After he dressed and fed the kids and took Cassie to school and

Brady to Bo to spend his morning with Shawn Douglas, John returned

home only to find his wife still asleep. This was another change in

Marlena. His wife was sleeping many hours in the mornings while

before she was the one that would wake up first. Sighing, he stepped

out of their bedroom, closing the door behind him and heading

towards the kitchen, where he prepared breakfast for Marlena.

John was just finishing putting the omelete on the plate, when a

dressed up Marlena showed up. “Goodmoring sweetheart” he said

heading towards her to kiss her but got a mouth full of hair instead. “Is

something wrong?” he asked somehow conserned. “No why?” “You

didn’t let me kiss you on the lips” “I am not feeling so good, I think I am

getting sick and I don’t want u to get sick too, that’s all” “Yeah right…”

“What did you do?” noticing the food on the table for the first time

“Breakfast, for you. So sit down and enjoy it” “Oh that is really sweet of

you but I don’t feel so good to eat” “Just try a little, please for my sake”

“Fine” she agreed somehow reluctant, sitting on the chair and taking

the omelete infront of her

“Why are you dressed up since you aren’t feeling good?” John asked

“I have to go to Laura’s” “But you said you aren’t feeling good” “And

it’s the truth but I can’t let her down. I promised to be there, and I wont

take my word back” “You know you are spending way to much time

with your friends” he remarked seeing her playing with the omelete “ Is

that a problem? You never had problem with this before” “No I don’t

have a problem, I like your friends, its just a barely see you. I really

would like if we would talk this evening” “Oh John this evening?” “Yes

why? Is there a problem? Please, I just want to talk with you” “Ok, fine

then we will talk this evening. Now I have to go, see you later” making

a hasty exit from the house. “Oh baby, please don’t give up on us. We

have to talk” staring at his wedding ring on his finger

***********

It was 4 o clock, and after she spent most of her morning at Laura’s

place while John was at his office, Marlena went to school to pick

Cassie up and Brady from Bo. By the time they arrived home it was

4.30 and in half hour John would return to talk to her. She was trying

to find a way to avoid this conversation, because she knew it would

only hurt her and lead to another argument.

After the children ate, they went with their mother to their room, where

they started telling her how they spent their day.

John returned home at 5.20 and found his wife sleeping on the bed

having the children in her arms, all fast asleep. He stepped outside

and went to his bedroom to take a shower and change.

1 hour later he was ready, heading towards the kitchen to eat. After he

finished eating he went to the living room, opened his briefcase, and

busied himself with paperwork.

Marlena showed up 5 minutes later looking tired. “You are home” she

said when she saw John. “What time is it?” “Its 6.30. I came to see

you but you were sleeping with the kids” “Yes we fell asleep. They

were telling me about their day and how much fun they had” “Good to

hear. They are still asleep?” “No mama is with them right now, they

are playing” “Ok”

Silence fell in the room, John trying to find a way to bring the subject

up about their relationship and Marlena trying to find a way to avoid it

“Umm you know I think I should shower” finding the first excuse that

came in her head. “Can’t you do that later? You promised me that we

would talk” “And we will, I just need to shower” “Marlena please we

need to talk” “Fine. Then talk” getting annoyed with him.

“Ever since DJ died you changed so much” “Really?” “Yes” “In what

way?” “You became distant with me baby, you stopped talking to me

and remember the promise we made? never go to bed mad? but lately

we barely talk. I miss you baby so much. I know you are hurting but

please don’t shut me out. Let me be there for you”

“I am not shutting you out, I am just too busy” “Too busy to even

spend few hours with me? Baby you are not the only one that lost a

child. I lost too. Dj was my son too, you think that I don’t hurt?”

“Do you John? Do you really hurt?” “Of course! What kind of question

is that?” “It doesn’t look to me that you are hurting. In fact it is your

fault that Dj is dead!!”

“What? You don’t mean that” “Yes I do! I told you many times that I

wasn’t ready to have children but you wouldn’t listen. Your only desire

was to get me pregnant!! I got pregnant and I lost the child because of

you!!! ARE YOU HAPPY NOW THAT YOU LEARNED THE TRUTH?”

John was in shock. He couldn’t believe that his wife was accusing him

for their child’s death. “Marlena please..” “Don’t touch me John, don’t

touch me, not ever again!!”

Before John could react Marlena was out of the house. John felt his

knees going weak. He sat on the couch burying his face in his hands

and crying. Crying for the loss of their child and at the thought of

losing the only woman he ever loved so much…

Chapter 26

By the time Marlena returned home it was 9 o clock. She closed

quietly the door behind her, placed her keys and purse on the table

and went to the living room. She found it odd that the house was so

quiet when it usually was chaotic

Her heart broke when she saw John sleeping on the living room

couch, having a picture frame of them in his hands. Marlena went to

their bedroom, took a blanket and covered John with it. Then she sat

on the couch next to him, watching him sleep

She could see the tears in his eyes that were still lingering there and

she felt bad not to mention pissed with herself that she could treat him

that way. Carefully she took the picture from him and covered him

more securely.

“I love you. I know you are sleeping right now and you probably aren’t

hearing me but I have to say this. I love you. I love you so much, I

hope you know it. You know, it is true what they say. The people we

love most in the world are the people that we hurt the most and I hurt

you a lot these last months. I was really a bitch to you but I was

hurting. I know it sounds pathetic. And I know it wasn’t right to blame

you for Dj’s death since we both know it isn’t true. I was just hurting

and I had to turn that anger to someone and that someone was you.

Believe me when I say that it wasn’t your fault. You were there for me

all that time, you supported me and helped me a lot and I can’t thank

you enough for that. It was God’s wish to take Dj with him and I know I

have to accept it, but, its just, I miss him so much. I feel so empty. I

was looking forward having a child with you”

“You know it broke my heart to see you that way when I came inside.

Sleeping on the couch, having our picture near your heart, crying. And

for the first time I realized how much I hurt you. I was selfish. I was

concerned about my feelings and my loss that I didn’t think how much

you were hurting. You are everything to me John. My lover, my

husband, my best friend, and I get scared at the idea that I might

loose you. I don’t want to loose you. I need you. I love you. Oh my

darling I love you so much”

“I love you so much too baby”

Marlena was startled when she realized that John wasn’t sleeping

anymore and that he heard everything

“You heard what I told you?” “Yes I did and you don’t know how happy

you made me when you told me that you still love me. I was starting to

doubt it. Oh how I missed you” “I missed you too John and I am sorry

for treating you that way” “There is no reason to apologize. I am just

glad to have you back” he said taking her in his arms stroking her hair

After staying in each other’s arms for almost one hour, Marlena pulled

away from his embrace “what do you say if we go upstairs, see what

the children are doing with Mama and then we can go to our room?”

“I love the way you think Mrs Black. Come on. Lets go” …

Chap 27

Despite been only 7 in the morning, the rays of the sun eventually

succeeded to wake John up. He stretched himself, yawning; a smile

on his face. Months passed from the last time he felt so at peace. He

looked down and smiled when he saw his wife trying to hide from the

sun under the covers.

Slowly he kissed her on the lips waking her complete up. “Good

morning beauty” “Good morning” she stretched herself, pulling John

closer to her. “It feels so good to be in your arms again” “I am glad to

hear it. It is good to have you close to me again. I’ve missed you” “I’ve

missed you too John” “Hey, hey what’s with the tears?” “I don’t

deserve you but I am glad that you didn’t give up on us while I was

such a bitch these months” John couldn’t help himself and he started

to laugh hard “What’s so funny?” But he couldn’t answer her from his

laughter “Oh stop laughing you goof” Suddenly her expression got

serious. She took his face in her hands stroking his cheeks “I hurt you

deeply John” “This is all in the past now. It’s a new start for us baby”

brushing her tears away with his thumbs and kissing her eyes.

—————

1 week passed from the day that Marlena and John reconciled, and

things started to settle down at the black house. John continued

working while Marlena took care of Cassie and little Brady. Marlena

continued to visit her friends but not as much often as before because

she knew that her husband and children needed her more

They even talked about children and Marlena was the one that

suggested they should try to have another baby. John was surprised

with that but Marlena told him that it would be a good idea to have a

new baby in the house. John of course happily agreed

————–

Marlena was in the kitchen putting the dishes in the dishwasher, when

John came into the room, a serious expression on his face “John

what’s wrong?” “You tell me” She didn’t like at all the tone of his voice

but she tried to stay calm “I don’t know what you are talking about

honey. Please tell me what it is. Is it the children?” “No the children

are just fine” “Then what is it?” “This” John threw an empty box on the

table in front of her. She knew that she was in trouble when she saw

what the box was all about “John..I” “When were you going to tell the

truth? Never? When were you going to tell me that you continued to

take birth control pills while u lied to me telling me that u would quit so

we could have a baby? ” “I was going to tell you John” “When?” “I..I”

“Gosh Marlena didn’t you learn your lesson? Didn’t you learn that I

hate the lying? You could have told me the truth that u weren’t feeling

ready to have a baby than to sneak around and take birth control pills”

“John..I” “What the fuck is wrong with you? You were the one that u

told me that u wanted children and were lying to me. are u so afraid of

me that you have to lie?” “No I’m not afraid..” “Then what?” by now

John was yelling at her and Marlena was shaking She couldn’t take it

anymore and she ran away before John had a chance to ask her to

talk this out.

Three days later the couple still didn’t talk about their problems. John

was sleeping on the sofa while Marlena continued sleeping on the

bed. They didn’t exchange one word not even to say a simple hi. The

truth is that Marlena tried but John wouldn’t let her. He was still angry

about her lies

John was looking some files when his secretary came inside holding a

piece of paper for him. John opened it, read it carefully and in the end

he slammed it down on his desk “Damn it!!” His secretary jumped a

little startled, she never saw her boss that angry. “Everything alright

Mr Black?” “No nothing is going right. Everything goes wrong. My wife

filled for divorce”

Chap 28

Marlena was packing her stuff together when she heard the door

slamming shut. She knew it was John like she also knew that he was

angry with her but she didn’t had a choice. Leaving him would be the

best solution for everyone. She couldn’t hurt him. It would be hard for

all of them in the beginning but she preferred that instead of staying

and hurting him more

“What the hell are you doing?” She didn’t turn around but continued

packing. “I am leaving” “For how long will this game continue?” “Its not

a game John. It is reality. I am leaving and you can’t do anything

about it” “Have you lost your mind? Yes I know we have some

problems but is this so bad that we can’t fix it?” “We can’t. And I don’t

want to. I hurt you many times. I guess our love was not meant to be. I

knew where I was getting myself into when I got involved with you

while you were married to Kristen. You know she was right.

Remember that day when we saw her in Salem Place and she warned

me that my happiness wouldn’t last? Guess what, she was right. After

that I lost a child, and now I am losing you” “But you don’t have to lose

1. We can work things out” “I am sorry but it is too late. This is my

punishment for starting an affair with you while you were married with

someone else”

“Marlena you have to let go of this guilt you are feeling” He tried to

take her hands in his put she pulled them away. “We were both

responsible about the affair but this is in the past. We are married, our

love is legally. And you are not responsible for our baby’s death when

will you accept that?” ‘I can’t” “You have to stop doing that. You can’t

just divorce me. You will tear a whole family apart. Have you thought

about what this would do to the kids?” “I have thought about it. And it

is best for all of us, trust me in this. I have to go” “Where will you

stay?” “I’ll find a place. Good bye John..And please don’t fight me on

this. Just give me the divorce”

Marlena left the Black estate as fast as she could not once looking

back because she knew if she did she would lose this battle and

would return to John and she couldn’t do that, not after they way she

treated him. He deserved all the happiness in the world, and she knew

he couldn’t have that, not with her.

Few days passed and after John’s failed attempts to try to talk to her

because she refused all the time, John couldn’t take it anymore and

he decided to give her what she wanted so much. He decided to give

her the divorce…

Chap 29

On a rainy Monday morning Marlena with her lawyer Mickey Horton

and John with his lawyer David Brown met at John’s company, so they

could discuss about the divorce

——

“Alright, now about the stuff that the two of you have…” David Brown

continued, “Marlena, John wants you to keep the house” “What? No,

he bought it, so he should keep it” “No, you keep it Marlena” “But

John, this is your house.. I can’t take that away from you” “you are

wrong Marlena, it wasn’t just my house, it was our house, and I think it

would be better if you would have it” “But…” “For once Marlena don’t

argue with me and just keep the damn house!!” “John..” his lawyer

warned him “Sorry” “Fine, I’ll keep the house and you can have the

car” “Fine”

Two hours and the four of them where almost finished. “Now since we

finished with all these, I need both your signatures to what you have

decided” Mickey informed them, giving them both their papers. “John,

will you sign first?” “Sure..whatever”

Marlena couldn’t help but notice John’s appearance. His black hair

was in disheveled condition and his once sparkling blue eyes were

shadowed with dark circles. Marlena knew that she was the cause of

the circles; she knew that she hurt him dearly and she hated herself

for that. Slowly she bent her head down, looking at her hands, since

she couldn’t bear to look the hurt in his eyes anymore.

John was looking the papers and his mind was wondering to the past.

His past with Marlena. He was remembering the first time he saw her,

how frightened and embarrassed she felt –he found it cute-. He

remembered the day the two of them went to the beach with the kids,

and the accident he had when the ball hit him square in the face,

because he was too busy staring at Marlena than focusing on the

game. He remembered the first time he and Marlena made love

against that tree, the weeks that followed with them sneaking around

so they could be alone, he remembered when he told the truth to

Kristen about his affair with Marlena, and his wedding and honeymoon

and their return to Salem where Marlena lost their child. After that all

went wrong. A tear made its appearance and John made sure to

brush it off immediately. “There. all done”. He handed Marlena the

papers so she could sign them, and throw their life together away

Marlena took the papers and began reading them carefully. Out of the

corner of her eye she could see that John was watching her every

move. The truth is that she was trying to read them, but her mind was

wondering to her past with John. Their first meeting, their discussions,

their little love fest in the shower, the day that John took her to see

their new house, their wedding and honeymoon, their return to Salem.

She smiled at the memory of John when he used to tell her poems or

dedicate to her songs that were expressing their love. Her romantic

husband.

But her smiled disappeared when she remembered their fights, which

usually she started, how bad she treated him, she remembered the

day when she found him sleeping on the couch holding their picture in

his hands real tight.

“Marlena, everything alright with the papers? ” Mickey asked, bring her

back to reality. “Yes, everything is alright. Time for me to sign them

then” She took the pen and wrote “Marlena Evans Bl…” suddenly her

hand started to shake, the images still following her. She tried to write

Black again, but it was the same. Her hand was shaking as if it had its

own will, and was trying to prevent her for making the biggest mistake

of her life. “Marlena, what’s wrong?” Marlena raised her head from the

papers and saw John looking at her concerned. She couldn’t take it

anymore and she got up from her seat “Ex…excuse me” Before

anyone could react she was out of the room, running in the hallway

until she saw an empty conference room and went inside

It wasn’t long till she felt the touch of the man that he loved so much.

“Marlena?” John turned her around, brushed her tears away with his

thumbs looking concerned at her. “Honey what is it? You can talk to

me” “I don’t want to divorce you” she whispered. John couldn’t believe

what he was hearing. Finally his prayers were answered. He took her

in his arms, holding her real tight, stroking her hair “shhh everything

will be alright sweetheart” “I don’t want divorce. I love you. I love you”

“That’s all what I wanted to hear. Come on lets go” “Go were?” “Home.

Our home. To our children”

Chap 30a

One year later

Marlena was drinking her Champaign waiting anxiously for her

husband to return. Today was their wedding anniversary and the

couple decided to go out to celebrate it. After what they went through,

they had every reason to celebrate. Their almost divorce was really a

wake up call for both of them. It made them realize just how much

they loved and needed each other, so the vowed to stay together for

the good and the bad times and always tell the other the truth, no

matter how bad it was. And even one year passed they were still

sticking to that vow.

Their life settled down. John continued with his businesses, Marlena

was busy with the kids although lately she was thinking of finding a

job. She didn’t want to be home all the time, not to mention the kids

wouldn’t need her help that much anymore. Cassie was in fifth grade

and Brady just started school. So she thought working at the hours the

children were at school. She discussed this with John and he told her

that it was her decision and that he would accept and support her in

what ever she would decide.

She smiled when she saw her husband returning to their table.

“Everything alright?” “Yep everything is fine. Brady and Cassie are

having the time of their life at Bo and Hope’s house with Shawn

Douglas. Cassie even complained to me” “Oh really? About what?”

“She told me that she is a big girl now and to stop worrying about her

that much” “That is what she said?” “Nope. Her exact words were. I

am a big girl daddy and I can take care of myself so stop worrying too

much and back off” Marlena nearly chocked on her drink when she

heard this “Oh my goodness, she sounds more and more like you

honey” “Yeah I think she wants to be like her old man” Both started

laughing, Marlena had even tears in her eyes. For the first time she

felt so at peace, so free, really happy “I love you so” John smiled at

her, taking her hand in his “I love you too baby”

For few more minutes they were just sitting there, staring at each

other, holding hands, smiling and just being happy until Marlena broke

the silence “Since the house is empty, what do you say we go home to

celebrate our anniversary in private?” John had a huge smile on his

face “Lets go”

John was trying to unlock the door of the Black estate but it was

difficult since Marlena who was behind him was teasing him, pressing

her body close to his and rubbing his chest “Honey will you hurry?”

John who couldn’t take her teasing anymore brought her in front of

him and started to attack her with hungry passionate kisses. When

their lips broke apart they were both breathless “Oh my… what was

that?” “That was for teasing me” “Then maybe I should tease you

more” Marlena replied unbuttoning his shirt and throwing it to the

ground “Baby..Baby can’t you wait till we get inside?” “No I want you

here” she pushed him against the door attacking him with kisses

again. John’s hands went to her jacket. He unbuttoned it and threw it

to the ground next to his. Her white shirt didn’t last long and it joined

“You have me drooling here..You are so beautiful. I love you” “I love

you too John” as fast as she could and without breaking the kiss,

Marlena’s hands went to his belt and he removed it. ‘Baby.. We really

need to get inside” John said full aroused while Marlena was

unzipping his pants.

After what seemed like forever John and Marlena finally made it inside

the house. John was trying to find the light switch while Marlena

continued kissing his neck, biting him lightly “Oh geez Marlena you

little minx…. Lets go to the bed..bed..bedroom” “You mean couch”

“Couch..”

Marlena and John were still lip locked when the lights suddenly went

on “Happy Anniversary!!!!” They jumped apart shocked to find the

living room full of family and friends and a banner hanging over their

heads.

Chapter 30b

“Happy anniversary!!!!” Marlena and John immediately jumped apart

shocked to find the house full of family and friends. The guests were

shocked too though to find the couple standing there only with the

underwear. For the next few moments the only thing that could be

heard where Cassie and Brady’s protests towards Hope and Bo

because the couple closed the children’s eyes so they wouldn’t see

their parents half naked in front of them

Marlena thought she was seeing a dream or more correct a

nightmare. She was praying that someone would wake her up. She

glanced towards Laura who was trying to hide her laughter. Marlena

grabbed John’s hand and after a barely audible “Excuse us” she

dragged her husband towards their room

“What did just happen?” John asked while Marlena was closing the

door behind them. “We humiliated ourselves in front of our family and

friends. I am not going downstairs again” “No way, I am not facing

them alone Marlena you will come with me” “You were always saying

that you are a brave man who can handle anything that comes in your

way, so why can’t you handle this thing alone?” “Nice try sweetheart

but it won’t work, you are still coming with me”

After both got dressed, John in blue shirt and black pants and Marlena

in a peach colored suit, they slowly went downstairs. “Here you are

and we thought you might lost your way back” Caroling joked “Or that

you might decided to continue with what you were doing before we

interrupted you” Laura couldn’t resist teasing the couple. Her comment

earned another round of laughter from everyone. The children were

standing there confused, wondering what so funny was about it.

“Congrats for your anniversary my children” Caroline first hugged

Marlena and then John. After that and for the next minutes the couple

was receiving wishes from their family and friends

“You both should see your faces. Totally shocked. Damn I wish I had

the camera with me” “Very funny” the couple rolled their eyes at Bo.

John noticed that everyone was there except for his brother Roman “

Ma where is Roman?” “Oh he will be here soon”. Roman came later

grinning from ear to ear. He told Marlena and John to close their eyes

because he had a surprise for them. John was very curious to see

what it was; he thought he would never see what the surprise was

because of Marlena’s unending questions “Honey please close your

eyes” “No not until Roman tells me what the surprise is, I don’t like

surprises” John knew how stubborn his wife was and it could take

hours, so he went behind her and closed her eyes with his hands

“Hey!! What are you doing?” “I want my surprise” Everyone was

laughing hard with the couple’s antics. “Hush everyone, you too

sweetheart. Ok Roman bring the surprise” he closed his eyes too

waiting anxiously. Roman left the room and returned few moments

later, telling them to open their eyes. John was still opening his eyes

when he heard his wife screaming. “And I thought I had to wait hours

till you decide about your surprise” In front of them was standing

Carrie who for the last 2 and half years was living in Europe, where

she was studying Art and Design. She only came to Salem so she

could be at John and Marlena’s anniversary party.

Chapter 30c

“Oh my goodness. You don’t know how good it is to see you again”

Marlena couldn’t stop crying. Even though they were talking on the

phone almost everyday, it was still difficult, especially since they were

so close. “It is so good to see you too. I missed you and John so

much, and of course the others too” “We missed you too pumpkin”

Both Marlena and John hugged Carrie at the same time. Marlena

glanced over Carrie’s shoulder and she saw Roman standing there,

watching their reunion along with the rest of the family and friends.

She smiled at him and whispered “Thank you”

The party continued and the couple was pulled apart. Abe, Shawn,

Bo, Hope and Mickey were talking to John, and Maggie, Lexie,

Jennifer, Caroline and Alice to Marlena. During their conversations

Marlena glanced over at Laura and saw her talking to Roman, but

what surprised her was that they were holding hands. Once Roman

left from Laura’s side, Marlena excused herself to the others and went

towards her “Is there something going on between Roman and you

that I should know?” “What do you mean?” “I saw the two of you

holding hands” “You are way too curious honey” “Yes I am but I am

also your best friend and I love you and I am always concerned about

you” “Haha you only say that so you can get your information” “you

know me too well. But seriously, I hope you know that I meant what I

said” “I know, and I would have talked to you sooner but it never felt

the right moment” “Are you saying…” “Roman and I are dating for

quiet few months now” “Is it serious? And how did it happen?” “It

happened 5 months ago, at the hospital, we bumped into the other

and I think it is serious. We are sleeping together, we spend most of

the time together and there are nights where I stay at his place or he

at mine” “Honey, why didn’t you tell me sooner?” “ I wanted to but

Roman thought we should wait before we declared our love openly”

“Are you happy with him?” “I am. For the first time in years I feel at

peace and happy again” “And I am happy for you. You deserve it.

Roman is a lucky man to have you in his life” “No I am the lucky one”

“Excuse me all, may I have your attention?” John was standing there

in the middle of the living room, facing Marlena few meters away “You

all know how crazy I am about this lady” pointing towards Marlena

“and at what lengths I would go for her, but since it is our wedding

anniversary I would like to say few words. Sweetheart I fell in love with

you from the first day I saw you and my love grows more and more

every everyday. You and the children are everything to me. You make

me so happy and everyday I thank God for being blessed with you. I

know we had our rough times but which marriage hasn’t. But in the

end we stayed together and we will continue that way. I love you

sweetheart and I thank you for putting up with me this one year that

we are married and I am looking forward for many anniversaries to

come”

Marlena couldn’t stop her tears anymore and she went towards John,

hugging him “Oh you made me mushy again. How do you do that all

the time? I love you too, so incredible much and I am the luckiest girl

in the world to have u and our children in our lives. Happy anniversary

baby” and she kissed him lightly on the lips. A kiss that soon turned

passionate, both forgetting where they were “Alright you, time out”

Hope joked pulling at Marlena’s arm. “We will continue this later babe”

John whispered in his wife’s ear “You bet Romeo”

“Happy?” “Oh Laura, yes I am very happy. I love him so much, I don’t

want to lose him” “Honey you won’t lose him” Laura could see that

something was troubling her “You wanna talk about it” “No its ok, we

should enjoy this night” “I know that you want to talk” “Can we go to

the kitchen?” “OK” Once they went there and sat down, Laura took

Marlena’s hand in hers, “Now tell me” “I am just worried” “Why?” “I

can’t get pregnant” “Oh honey” “Ever since John and I got back

together, we decided to have another child, but I can’t get pregnant

and we are trying for months now” “Sweetie you shouldn’t worry.

Sometimes you just can’t get pregnant right away” “Well it happened

the first time, so why not now? You know I am afraid” “Afraid?” “Yeah

that after I lost DJ it left me some problems and that is why I can’t

conceive” “Sweetie you are overreacting. I think you can’t get

pregnant because you are so stressed and that isn’t good. What does

John say?” “He says the same thing with you” “See? You should listen

to us. It is because you are so nervous. It will happen you just have to

relax” “I’ll try” “Good girl. Are you feeling a little better” “Yes, how do

you do that? You always manage to make me feel better” “I am glad. I

want you to be happy” “And I want the same thing for you” “For the

first time in a long long time I finally think that I can be happy” “why

don’t you return to Roman? I am sure he missed you” “What about

you?” “I’ll come soon too” “Ok. Love ya” “Love ya too”

Marlena was still in the kitchen, thinking, when she felt two strong

hands wrapping around her “You missed me handsome?” “How did

you know it was me? I could be someone from the guests that was

picking on you” “Baby we are married for a year now, I think I know by

now the smell of you” “Smartass” “I know, but you didn’t answer my

question. You missed me?” “Oh yeah” and he pinned her between his

body and the wall “Umm John try to control yourself, we still have

guests” But he wasn’t listening to what she was saying. He took her

leg and he wrapped it around him while he was pressing his body to

hers. This turned Marlena on and she moaned. They started to kiss,

hands roaming, moans increasing “Honey, honey we should stop”

“Uh-huh” Loud laughter’s were coming from the living room and

Marlena afraid that someone could catch them pushed John “Honey

we can’t now” She shook her head when she saw his expression

“Baby you look like someone stole your candy” “Oh trust me this is

way better than candy” “You are so horny” “So are you” “Later”

The party continued for few more hours, John was talking with the

men and Marlena was catching up with Carrie. As time was passing

the guests slowly were leaving one by one. The last ones were Alice,

Mickey and Maggie and John offered to take them home. Marlena

promised that when he would return a surprise would be waiting for

him looking at him with bedroom eyes. John returned one hour later

“Honey?” but no one answered, “I guess she must be in the bedroom”

he had a huge smile on his face and he went there. When he went

inside he saw Marlena lying in their bed “Honey I am home” but she

didn’t answer “Honey?”. After he took his clothes off he got under the

covers, kissing her neck and shoulder “Sweetheart? You aren’t

sleeping aren’t you?” “Hmmm” “Aww you promised a surprise for me”

“Hmmm” Marlena turned from the other side, sleeping heavy and John

could see that he couldn’t wake her up so he wrapped his arms

around her and kissed her ear “Happy anniversary baby, goodnight, I

love you” “Hmm Love u” meeting each other in their dreams again

Chapter 31

“ These are last years numbers and these are this year’s” Scott White,

John’s right hand, was informing John and the rest of the members

about how the company was progressing “There is a big difference

and we should be proud that we made it. We did a wonderful job and

we must keep this up, right John?” “Huh?” “We..doing a wonderful

job..” “Oh..yeah right” “Is everything alright?” “Yes, why?” “You are

elsewhere” “No I am right here, hearing what you are saying” “So

should I continue?” “Yeah sure” Just as Scoot was about to continue,

they heard a knock on the door, and John’s secretary came in

“Excuse me, I didn’t mean to interrupt but..” “What is it Cynthia?” “Mr.

Black your wife is on the phone” “Ok thanks. Gentlemen you have to

excuse me for few moments” “Sure” John picked up the phone while

the others where trying not to listen to the conversation “Hello?” “Hey”

“Hey. You ok?” “Uh huh” “And?” “Yes” “Are you sure?” “Yes” “Oh holy

shit” Everyone turned their heads towards John wondering what this

was all about “Honey when can you come home?” “After the meeting

is over ok?” “Ok” “I love you” “I love you too” “I’ll see you soon” “Ok”

John hung up the phone and returned to the others who were dying to

know what the phone call was all about “John? You ok?” Scott asked

“Umm yeah” “You sure?” “Yes, everything is fine, no everything is

perfect” John could see they were looking at him confused “Marlena is

pregnant. We are going to have a baby” “This is great news! I know

how badly you and Marlena wanted a new baby” “Yes indeed”

“Congratulations” “Thanks Scott” After the other men congratulated

John too, the meeting continued again but John couldn’t concentrate

“John how about you go home? I am sure you and Marlena would like

to celebrate the good news” “Are you sure?” “Of course”

When John entered the house the smell of something delicious hit

him. He made his way towards the kitchen and found his wife

preparing dinner. He wrapped his hands around Marlena kissing her

temple lightly “Well hello there momma to be” “Hello to you too daddy

to be”. She turned around and John kissed her long and passionately

“I thought you had a meeting” “Well I couldn’t concentrate after the

bomb you threw me from the phone and the others were very

understanding and let me go” “I have to thank them for letting my

husband come sooner home” and she kissed him again “How are you

feeling honey?” “I am fine. Happy. After so many months of trying we

will have a baby again” “I love you so much Marlena” “I love you too”

“It smells delicious” “What? Me or the food” “You always smell

delicious but right now I am talking about the food” “You hungry?”

“Yeah” “Ok, why don’t you take a shower? Till you are finished the

food will be ready” “Ok”

After john finished with his shower and wore something more casual,

he made his way to the kitchen again “Is it ready?” “Yep” “You need

help?” “No everything is under control. You can go to the dinning room

and I’ll come soon too” “Ok”

He was just standing there in the dinning room, looking around,

amazed with what Marlena did. The lights were dimmed, soft music

was playing and I candlelight dinner for two with Lilacs and roses

around the room “Amazing” “I hope your are talking about me” John

turned around and gave her one wet, strong and passionate kiss,

almost causing Marlena to drop the plates. Once she recovered from

the kiss she slapped him on his butt “Why don’t you sit your cute little

self down and I’ll be right back with the food” “Ok”

During dinner Marlena was quiet and John decided to ask her about

the reason “What’s wrong? Why so quiet suddenly?” “I am just

thinking..about DJ” “Are you afraid?” “Yeah, honey I am thrilled that

we will have another baby but I am afraid at the same time too, I don’t

want to lose this one too” “Please don’t tell me you are still blaming

yourself for DJ’s death” “Hmm” “Marlena, it is not your fault, he just

wasn’t strong enough and that is why it happened” “I know that..”

“Honey everything will work out fine you will see and I will always be

by your side” “I am really lucky to have you” “No I am the lucky one.

Would you like to dance with me?” “Of course” John got up from his

seat and went towards Marlena. He pulled the chair and he took her in

his arms swaying to the music.

There’s something about the way you look tonight

There’s something about the way that I can’t take my eyes off you

There’s something about the way your lips invite

Maybe it’s the way that I get nervous when you’re around

And I want you to be mine

And if you need a reason why

It’s in the way that you move me

And the way that you tease me

The way that I want you tonight

It’s in the way that you hold me

And in the way that you know me

When I can’t find the right words to say

You feel it in the way

Oh you feel it in the way

“Umm this is so nice” Marlena said placing her head on his shoulder.

“It sure is” John ran his hands un and down making her shiver “You

ok” “yes” “Ok” and they continued to dance

It’s something about how you stay on my mind

It’s something about the way that

I whisper your name when I’m asleep oh girl

Maybe it’s the look you get in your eyes

oh baby it’s the way that makes me feel to see you smile

And the reasons they may change

But what I’m feeling stays the same

Marlena raised her head and looked John, who was looking at her.

Slowly she went on tiptoes and kissed his lips lightly. John deepened

the kiss brining her closer to him. Soon the kisses got more heated

and Marlena pulled away a little “Make love to me”

It’s in the way that you move me

And the way that you tease me

The way that I want you tonight (tonight)

It’s in the way that you hold me

And the way that you know me

When I can’t find the right words to say

You feel it in the way

Oh you feel it in the way

John swept her in his arms and went to the bedroom. He laid her on

the bed and went to close their door. Marlena was on her elbows,

never stop looking at him. She wanted to memorize everything. John

returned and started to unbutton his shirt “No let me” Marlena

whispered and got up from the bed and went towards him

I can’t put my fingers on

Just what it is that makes me

Love you, you baby

So don’t ask me to describe

I get all choked up inside

Just thinking about the way

She slowly unbuttoned his shirt kissing every time new skin was

exposed. She removed it and started to caress his hands, his

shoulders, his chest, playing with his nipples “You are so handsome”

“And you are so beautiful” John replied, unbuttoning slowly her shirt.

After he removed it he placed his hand on her chest and ran his finger

on her skin above her black bra “Are you alright?” “Umm..Yes” “You

are shivering” Marlena ran her hands over his abdomen licking her lips

as she opened the button of his pants and pulled the zipper down.

It’s in the way that you move me

And the way that you tease me

The way that I want you tonight (tonight)

It’s in the way that you hold me

And the way that you know me

When I can’t find the right words to say

You feel it in the way

Oh you feel it in the way

John stepped out of them and kicked them away. Marlena licked her

lips again at the sight of her husband clad only in his boxers. John

pulled her closer and after he unzipped her skirt he kneeled in front of

her and pulled the skirt down. Marlena placed her hand on his

shoulder to steady herself and stepped out of them.

John placed his hands on her behind and he brought her closer to

him, smelling her arousal. She whimpered when she felt his lips on

her womanhood. He was giving her small kisses there, teasing her

that way.

It’s something about the way you look tonight

There is nothing more to say than I feel it in the way

“Umm stop..” “Stop what?” John asked, licking her. “Stop..stop

teasing..me” but he wasn’t listening. He continued that way till Marlena

started to tremble “Honey I can’t..” and she tried to push John from her

but he was holding her tight. She couldn’t take it anymore and she

came hard against his mouth. Once her breathing returned to normal,

John got up and kissed her “Yummy”

Marlena led him towards the bed and lay there bringing him on top of

her spreading her legs for him. He settled between them and started

to kiss her again “If you want me to beg I will. I don’t have a problem

with that” John just smiled devious but he decided to have mercy with

her and so he pushed himself into her. Marlena arched her back and

neck raising her hips to take him more inside.

Soon his thrusts got harder and faster and Marlena grabbed the pillow

underneath her “Just let go honey” John told her knowing that she was

close. He thrust one more time and Marlena climaxed few minutes

after him

John lay his head on her breasts still breathing heavy “wow” “wow is

right” he felt her shivering and he pulled the covers over them. “Night

mamma” “Night daddy” .

Chapter 32

John and Marlena entered the Black Estate in silence, both lost in

their thoughts. They were still in shock with today’s events. “Why don’t

you go and sleep a little” “No I don’t want” “Honey you are 6 months

pregnant. You need to rest, you have to think of yourself and the

twins” “Only if you will come with me” “I will”

Together hand in hand they went to their bedroom and changed. They

climbed into bed and John took her in his arms rubbing her belly and

kissing her on her forhead. “You ok sweetheart?” “I am just in shock

with what happened today. How could Hope do this to Bo? How could

she cheat on him? How could she have an affair?” “I don’t know”

“They were so much in love” “I know. They were together as a couple

ever since high school. They went to college together, they even

worked together until Shawn Douglas was born, so I can’t understand

it either”

Marlena and John with the children were invited for dinner at Shawn

and Caroline’s along with Bo and Hope , Roman and Laura. During

dinner Bo and Hope were arguing and Hope excused herself and went

outside to calm down. Bo followed her to apologize and he heard her

talking to another man on the phone and telling him that she loves him

and that they will be together once she’ll ask divorce from Bo. Bo

heard everything and he got angry,. He asked details and Hope told

him that she stopped loving him in a long time and that she found

someone else. Bo called her a slut and he slapped her. The family

tried to calm things down and Hope left. Marlena and John tried to

comfort Bo and after they made sure he was ok they left the children

to Shawn and Caroline and returned home

Marlena placed her head on John’s chest playing with his chest hairs

“It really got to you what happened ” “Yeah” “Why honey?” “Because I

am afraid that something like this might happenen to us too when you

get bored of me” “Baby I will never get bored of you. And that will

never happen to us. We are deeply in love with each other. I am head

over heels for you and that won’t change. So you are stuck with me

forever” “I like that. And you are stuck with me” “I love you honey” “I

love you too John”

John was caressing her back while Marlena was lightly kissing his

chest. “Mmmm that’s nice” Marlena looked up at him, she gave him a

grin and continued to kiss his chest bitting lightly his nipples. John

groaned and she continued , going slowly lower. John closed his eyes

knowing what would happen so he brace himself. He groaned again

when Marlena took his manhood in her mouth , sucking and licking

him. The only thing he could do was moan and try to hold on. Marlena

though had other ideas and she continued till John couldnt take it

anymore and he came in her mouth.

She licked her lips and he pulled her to his level kissing her, his hand

sneaking lower, rubbing her. He laid her on her back and started to

kiss her neck, her shoulder, her chest, he moved to her breasts where

he sucked on one nipple and then the other. He moved lower and

kissed her round belly where their children were nesteled inside. He

placed his head on her belly and he listened. Marlena smiled and

caressed his hair. “Our babies are saying hi to you” John said grinning

from ear to ear

“Oh you” John opened her legs a little more and he settled there,

kissing first one foot, and then the other, heading towards her center.

He started to touch and lick her there causing her to moan. He

murmured something against her but Marlena coudnt make what he

said “What?” “I said I love you” “Love you too”

He carefully laid on top of her, kissing here while he slowly entered

her. Marlena moaned again and he started to move. She wrapped her

legs around him and he moved faster and deeper till neither of them

couldn’t hold on anymore and the climaxed

After they finished John laid his head on her breasts, both trying to

catch their breath. “Like we said, we are stuck togehter” Marlena

smiled and kissed him on the lips “and that’s a fact Mr Black” holding

each other close, both fell in a content sleep.

——————-

The next moring John woke up before Marlena and he kissed her

lightly on her swollen lips. “Morning gorgeous” Marlena only groaned

in protest and so John got up, chuckling “You are really a sleepy

head” “Go away” John shook his head and went to the kitchen to

make breakfast. Breakfast in bed would make her mood better

He was holding the tray and was about to head upstairs when he saw

a note under the door. “What is this?” He went there and picked it up

and opened it. There was no name, no address. The only thing it was

saying was “SOME THINGS AREN’T THEY WAY THEY LOOK LIKE”

Chapter 33

It was noon and John was unlocking the door of his house. He had a

long and tiring day at work and the only thing he wanted, was to spend

his hours with his wife and kids. Once he went inside, he positioned

his briefcase and keys on the little table that was at the hall. The

house was quiet “Mrs Blaaaaaack? Oh Mrs Blaaaaaaack?” “Here”

John went to the living room and saw Marlena lying on the couch, she

had her eyes closed and was rubbing her belly “Hey you ok?” “Yeah

don’t worry” “I always worry and now tell me the truth” “I wasn’t feeling

so good this morning and I stayed on the couch” “What do you mean

you weren’t feeling good” “ I had some little pains” “Get dressed we

are going to the hospital” “See? That is why I didn’t want to tell you.

You act paranoid” “Well excuse me but your my wife and I love you

and want the best for you, and you say I act paranoid?” “Honey, stay

calm. Women do have little pains sometimes in their pregnancies you

know but I swear to you that I am fine” “You sure?” “Yes baby” “Ok,

sorry for acting this way” “Its ok, I know you do it because you care” “I

do”

John sat on the couch with Marlena and took her in his arms ,

caressing her hands, her head, kissing her neck “Where are the

children?” “With your parents” “Oh” “They will return soon” “Oh ok”

“How was work?” Marlena asked laying her head on his chest,

watching as John was rubbing her belly “Same old , same old” “What

an answer” he just winked “You must be hungry hmm?” “Hmm so so”

“I am sorry, I didn’t do anything, I was on the couch all day” “Baby it’s

ok, don’t feel bad about it” he replied, lifting her chin and kissing her

lightly on the lips. “I can get something from outside” “John you don’t

have to do that. I can cook” “I don’t mind going to get us something.

So tell me what does my baby want?” “Hmm chinesse?” “Ok then,

chinesse it is” he got up from the couch and went to the door “I’ll

return soon” “Ok”

Once outside, he saw a note stuck on his windshield which was

adressed to him. He took it and started to read it. “THINGS AREN’T

THEY WAY YOU THINK THEY ARE. SOMETIMES THE TRUTH IS

INFRONT OF US BUT WE ARE BLIND AND DON’T SEE IT” . John

had enough of this. It was the third letter he was receiving and he

thought it was time to inform Abe.

Once he arrived at the station he went straight to Abe. “Abe you have

to help me” and he showed his letters. Abe took them and read the

letters, he studied them for some minutes. “Hmm it could be a farce”

“In the beginning I thought that too, but now I am not so sure. What if it

is true and someone tries to warn me?” “I don’t know but I have to

keep them and give them to the lab. Maybe they can find something”

“I hope so” “Have you talked to Marlena about this?” “No” “Why not?”

“I don’t want to worry her” “John she has a right to know” “Yeah I

know” “I advise you to talk to her when you return” “I’ll try” “Ok, and if I

find out something I will call you” “Ok, thanks” “No problem. I hope it is

a farce and nothing serious” “Yeah me too”

John arrived home one hour later. Once he stepped inside he could

tell Marlena cooked Spaggeti. He forgot about the chinesse he had

promised “Hey I am back” “Wow that took long. From where did you

get the chiness? China?” John smiled at her , he was feeling bad that

he had to worry her and ruin her good mood “Where are the kids”

“Upstairs , sleeping. They came exshausted home, they ate, and went

to bed” “Ok” “Hey what’s wrong?” she could sense that something was

bothering him “We have to talk”

Together hand in hand they went to the living room, where John told

her about the annonymous letters he was receiving “What did Abe

say?” “It could be farce but I wanted to be sure” “Do you believe it is a

farce?” “No, I believe it is real and someone tries to warn us about

something” “Honey why didn’t you tell me sooner?” “Because you are

pregnant and I didn’t want to upset you with this” “You have to stop

treating me like I am ill. I am not” “Yeah I know” “I am glad you told me

now” “Yeah. So now we have to wait for the results. I hope they find

something” “Me too”

——-

In the evening John and Marlena went to Shawn and Caroline’s and

told them and the rest of the family what was happening. The family

promised to be by their side and help them anyway they can.

Few hours later they returned home and they were about to go inside

the house , when they saw a man coming out of the bushes and

heading towards them “Mr and Mrs Black I need to talk to you”