“Daddy that’s enough!” said 19 year old Marlena Evans who was
trying to avoid her father’s camera “Enough? You must be kidding. It’s
not everyday that my two daughters go to college” “Frank, Marlena is
right. That’s enough” said Martha Evans taking her daughters side.
“She and Sam must leave. Oh I can’t believe that my two little girls are
leaving for college. Come here you” she said while reaching for the
twins “Oh mom not you too!” said Sam “We’ll be in the same city. We
just won’t live in this house anymore. The dorm will be a great change
for us and it will teach us how to become responsible” “Sam’s right
mom” replied Marlena.
After few more hugs from their parents Marlena and Samantha Evans
left the house and their old life and headed for the dorm. When they
arrived they went to their room to unpack and there they met their new
roommate Hilary Jacobs. She was a nice girl and the twins liked her
immediately. Later the three girls took the program of their classes
and their life at college began.
*******************
It’s been a moth since classes started and while Sam had no problem
fitting in, Marlena couldn’t handle college life so well. She found the
classes difficult and to follow the others she had to study harder
spending to many hours above a book depriving herself from the fun
of going out and having a great time. She also became a little
obsessed with her weight believing that all the other girls were pretty
and thin and that she was fat. Sam tried to convince her that she was
a normal girl but Marlena wouldn’t believe her and so she started to
jog. Every afternoon Marlena went to the college field for jogging and
returned exhausted to the dorm where she went straight to bed.
******************
“Hilary I’m leaving ” announced Marlena. “Again? Marlena you are
going for jogging every night and that’s not good. Look at you! You’re
starting to loose weight and that’s not healthy. You’ve become
obsessed with it” “Hilary don’t start. Not you too. There’s nothing
wrong about me jogging. It helps me clear my head. By the way is
loosing weight a crime? I feel much nicer. I’ve got to go. See you later”
with that Marlena left, leaving Hilary to wonder what will happens next.
The sun had set for hours and it was beginning to get dark. Marlena
who had just finished jogging reached for her bottle of water and drank
a little bit. Then she wiped her face with the towel and started for the
dorm when suddenly she heard footsteps behind her. She ignored it
believing it was just her imagination. She started walking again
remembering her discussion with Hilary when someone grabbed her
putting his hand on her mouth. “Shut up do you hear me?” he said.
Marlena was so frightened that the only thing she could do was nod.
The attacker pulled her in a dark spot and laid her roughly on the
ground. Marlena was crying and begging him to let her go but the only
thing she managed was to cry harder when he ripped her t- shirt. She
struggled to get her hands free, but her efforts were futile. He had
pinned her underneath him. When she had the courage to look at him
she saw that he wasn’t wearing a mask but because it was so dark
she couldn’t see his face so clear. The attacker in the meantime was
kissing and licking her neck heading towards her breasts. “Please
don’t do this” she said but he ignored her and ripped her white bra to
shreds. She was crying uncontrollably as he was kneading her breasts
with one hand and was undoing her pants with the other. He took her
mouth in his and started to unzip his pants. Marlena screamed in pain
when he entered her causing her to loose consciousness…
Chapter 2
“Marlena we’re going out! Do you wanna come with us?” asked Hilary
trying to cheer Marlena up who was sitting on her bed very quietly.
“No you go ahead. I’ll stay here” “Marnie sweetie what is it? You’re so
quiet are you feeling all right? You know you can tell us” “There’s
nothing to tell Sam. I’m fine I’m just not in the mood for parties alright?
” answered Marlena who was becoming irritated with Sam’s and
Hilary’s questions. “Alright then. We’ll see you later” When the girls left
Marlena went to her bathroom took her clothes off and stepped into
the shower. As the water was splashing down on her, she started to
cry remembering yesterday’s events from the college field… When
she had gained consciousness again she was alone lying naked on
the ground while the attacker had disappeared. She found the
strength to get up put her shred clothes on and with difficulty she went
to the dorm. Her room was empty and so she went straight to the
shower to clean herself from this nightmare. After she had finished
showering she went to bed crying herself to sleep. Today wasn’t better
for her and with Sam and Hilary asking her questions the situation was
becoming wore difficult.
****************************************
Few days had passed and the twins with Hilary went to visit their
parents. Marlena in the meantime didn’t tell anyone about her rape
and vowed to forget that it ever happened.
Frank ecstatic for having his girls back home decided to organize a
picnic in the back yard grilling some burgers and calling friends.
Martha who suspected that something wasn’t right with Marlena
turned to Sam hoping she would know what’s wrong with her. “I’m
sorry Mama I have no idea what’s going on. She doesn’t tell me
anything. This morning I tried to talk to her and she almost bitted my
head off.”
Meanwhile an old friend of Frank’s Larry Wilson who just came into
town decided to visit the Evans. Martha happy about seeing him again
introduced him to her girls. Sam greeted him first and then it was
Marlena’s turn. She was reluctant touching his hand and when Larry
putted his hand on Marlena’s shoulder she screamed, “Don’t touch me
you ass! Don’t you dare touch me or I’ll kill you!” Martha shocked from
her daughter’s reaction tried to calm her down. “Mama please don’t let
him touch me. Not again. He hurt me once don’t let it happen again”
“Honey no one is going to hurt you. You are safe” Marlena sobbing
now uncontrollably said “No I’m not safe he hurt me” “Marlena how did
he hurt you?” Martha’s heart almost stopped when she heard Marlena
saying, “ He raped me!!” .
The Evans not sure if what Marlena said was the truth decided to take
her to a doctor to run some tests. When the results came, the doctor
called the couple to her office to talk to them. “Do you know if Marlena
has a boyfriend?” “No she hasn’t ” informed her Martha “And I know
from her sister that she wasn’t seeing anyone” “did she ever had a
boyfriend?” “No” “So she was a virgin” “Yes. Why was? What’s
wrong?” “Well it’s hard to say this but we found out that Marlena came
sexual with someone” “What?” asked the couple in shock “We found
sperm in Marlena. I’m very sorry. It’s 100% sure. She was raped”
The family feeling anger for what happened to Marlena convinced her
to go to the police and put charges for rape.
Few days later the phone to the Evans house rang and Frank picked it
- He heard carefully and when he put the receiver down he turned
towards his wife and daughters. “They caught him. His name is Chase
O” Connor”
****************************************
Two months later was the trial of Chase O” Connor who had declared
guilty and so the court put him to prison for five years. While the
policemen were dragging him away he passed beside Marlena and
stopped in front of her “I’m so sorry for what you went through
because of me. I never meant to hurt you” Marlena was only standing
there and staring at his face. He had long dark hair, a beard and a
mustache so she couldn’t see his face very well but never in her entire
life would she forget his ocean blue eyes of his. “How can such a man
who is so bad have so beautiful blue eyes?”
****************************************
4 months later
“Chase O’ Connor? You have a visitor” said the police guard. Chase
went to a room where there was waiting for him his best friend
Jonathan Smith. “Oh man Chase you look like nuts” “Thanks
Jonathan” he said sarcastically “Try to cut you hair and shave your
beard! Maybe you would look more like human then. How are you
feeling buddy?” “How am I feeling? I screw up everything. One time I
put alcohol in my mouth and a made a stupid mistake” “Yea well your
stupid mistake got Marlena Evans pregnant” “What?” asked Chase
who almost fell from his chair. “Marlena Evans is pregnant. Six months
…” “How do you know she is pregnant?” “I run into her in a baby store.
She passed beside me but she didn’t recognize me. Her belly was
huge! I was in shock and so I asked around and I found out that she is
6 months pregnant” “It has been six months from what happened.
Which means the baby is mine” “Exactly”
Chapter 3
Five years later
“Chase O Connor?” said the guard “Yes?” “You are free. And please
stay out of trouble” “I’ll try” “What are going to do now that you are a
free man?” “I’m going to make things right…” said Chase while leaving
from the jail in which he had spend 5 years of his life because of one
mistake and walking towards his new life.
“Come on Chase you can’t stay for ever in your car” murmured Chase
to himself while sitting in his car and staring towards the Evans house.
He had decided to talk to Marlena and apologize to her for what
happened. Taking a deep breath he opened the door of his car,
stepped outside, closed it and started walking towards the house.
When he reached the door he knocked softly and waited. When
nobody answered he rang the bell. He putted his hands on the door
window hoping he could see any movement coming from inside.
“What are you doing young man?”. Startled Chase turned around and
saw an old lady who had opened her window and was staring at him.
“I’m sorry to disturb but I would like to speak to Marlena Evans. It is
really important” “Then you came to late” informed him the woman “To
late? What do you mean?” “Marlena and her family moved out from
this house and this city” “What? She left Colorado?” “Yes she did. Can
you blame her? That poor thing went so much because of that pervert
man who raped her” Chase swallowed hard “Do you know where she
went?” “No I don’t. And why are asking me so many questions. Who
are you a friend?” “Hm..Yes a friend” Chase thanked her, went to his
car and left forever …
****************************************
Salem USA
“Dr Evans phone call for you” “Thank you Susan” replied Marlena
taking the receiver from her secretary’s hand. “Dr Evans speaking” “Hi
honey I know I shouldn’t call you at your work but I was worried about
you. You said you would be home an hour ago and you didn’t came
and…” “It’s alright mama. We had an emergency and so I couldn’t
leave ” “Oh ok then. So you’re coming home?” asked Martha still
overprotective towards her daughter who went through a terribly
ordeal. After Chase O’ Connor was sentence to prison for 5 years
Martha and Frank thought it would be best for the girls and especially
for Marlena to leave from Colorado and move to Salem where
Marlena gave birth to a little girl. The Evans were against Marlena’s
decision in keeping the baby but Marlena said that it wasn’t the baby’s
fault for it’s father’s actions and so they supported her during her
pregnancy and they still supported her 5 years later. Marlena became
a psychiatrist helping people with similar problems while Samantha
became a teacher. “Look mama I have to go. I’ll see you soon”. After
her phone call Marlena grabbed her briefcase, said goodnight to her
colleagues and walked towards the parking lot to her car. She got
inside and turned on the ignition. The car wasn’t starting and Marlena
became frustrated. After few more failed attempts Marlena gave up
and decided to go home walking. After all she wasn’t too far away
from home
Marlena was walking through a semi dark park tightening her coat
more secure around her and speeding up her pace eager to return
home cursing herself for not taking a taxi. Suddenly she met two
drunken men who were searching the trash. Panic overcame her as
she remembered her rape 5 years ago. She tried to turn around and
leave unnoticed, when one of the men who had seeing her grabbed
her and dragged her to the other guy. Both started to tease her by
telling her that it was too dangerous for a so lovely lady to walk around
by herself. Marlena lying to them said that she wasn’t alone and that
her husband was with her. The men started to laugh by her remark
saying “Oh really but I don’t see anyone else. It’s just you and us
baby. So where is your husband?” “I’m right here!” said a tall dark-
haired man who came out of the shadows. “And if you don’t leave my
wife alone you will be very sorry”. The men annoyed with him attacked
him but the stranger was much more stronger and beat them pouncing
them on their faces. The men realized that they couldn’t handle this
stranger and left frightened like two little puppies.
The stranger walked towards Marlena who was sitting on the ground
moving herself back and forth not having contact with reality. The
stranger tried to touch her but she jerked his hand away screaming,
“Don’t touch me. Please don’t touch me!” “It’s ok lady the bad guys are
gone. It’s just me. And believe me I’m with the good guys. Now I’m
gonna hold your hands so I can help you stand up. Is this alright with
you?” Marlena nodded her head and he helped her up. “I don’t think
you are hurt. Let me see you” “No! I’m not hurt. Thank you for saving
me” “Your welcome. Are you really alright?” “Yes I’m fine Mr….”
“Black. John Black” “Well Mr. Black thank you again” she said while
looking at him. Although he was shaven a few beard hair were coming
out. He had short dark hair and was very muscular. But what really
intrigued her were his blue eyes. “Only one man had the same eye
color and that man was my rapist”. Fear struck her and she got few
inches away from him. “I..I must leave now! Thank you again…
Goodbye” Marlena started running not once looking back again while
John was calling out for her “Wait you didn’t tell me your name!”
Chapter 4
“I’ll get it!” announced Sam heading towards the door when she heard
the bell ringing. She opened it and in front of her was standing a
handsome man. “Good morning” said John shyly “Well good morning
to you too” replied Sam eating him with her eyes. “I’m sorry to
interrupt” “No, no you’re not interrupting at all…so, what can I do for
you?” John was speechless with this woman. Yesterday she was
screaming and crying and now she was all smiles. That was weird. “I
came to give you this. You forgot your purse yesterday when you left
in such a hurry” “What purse?” asked Sam. “The purse… you forgot..
at the park…” “What park? I didn’t went to any park” “What is wrong
with her did she hit her head and got amnesia or something?” John
wondered. “Oh the park! Then you must be talking about my sister
Marlena” “Huh?” “I’ll get her. Come in. make yourself comfortable. I’ll
be right back” Sam said leaving to get Marlena
John was strolling in the house looking around when Sam returned
with Marlena by her side. “Twins!” John murmured surprised. “Oh Mr.
Black…” Marlena was speechless seeing him standing there. “Hello…
Ms Evans… How, how are you feeling?” “I’m better thank you” she
answered not understanding why he was there and most important
how he found her. “You must be wondering what I’m doing here” John
asked as if reading her thoughts. “Yes I little bit” “I came to give you
this” “Oh my purse” Marlena said. “Yes. Last night you left in such a
hurry that you left it behind. I found your ID inside and so I decided to
give it to you in person” “Oh that’s very kind of you. Thank you very
much Mr. Black” “John please” “Alright John” Feeling ignored Sam
cleared her throat to get their attention “Oh this is my sister Samantha”
Marlena said “Sam” she replied extending her hand to John. “Nice to
meet you” John said smiling at her “Now that we finished with the
introducing would you like a cup of coffee? After all it’s the least we
can do for you since you brought Marlena’s purse” Sam said hoping to
keep him there a little bit longer.
“So John, you must be new in Salem otherwise I would have seeing
you somewhere” Sam said while the four of them were sitting on the
couch drinking their coffees. “Yes I’m new here. Moved a week ago”
“So do you like it here?” “Yes it’s very beautiful and quiet. I sure could
use living here but I’m not sure how my company will proceed here.
After all Salem is not New York” “True. Company huh? What kind of
company” “Sam!” Marlena replied hitting her sister in the hand feeling
a little bit embarrassed with Sam’s unending questions. “No it’s alright”
John reassured her. “I’m in the fashion business. Basic Black” “Oh I
heard about this company. They said that it did a great start ” “you
heard about it? ” “Yes. I’m a teacher so I know a few things about
what’s going on in this town” “Oh really” “Yes and my sister here is a
shrink. Dr Marlena Evans” Sam said causing Marlena to blush.
An hour passed and Sam was still chattering with John while Marlena
was watching them not believing that her sister was flirting with a total
stranger. Marlena was about to say something when suddenly she
heard someone calling for her “Mommy, mommy help me…” Before
she could react her little blond girl jumped into her arms holding her
real tight. “Oh Belle, what’s the matter sweetie?” “Grandma wants to
brush my hair but I don’t want to. It hurts” “Oh Belle but you know you
must” “But mommy…” “What do you say if I brush your hair?” “Yes!
You don’t make them hurt” “Ok then. You go to your grandmother and
ask for the brush alright?” “Ok” Belle replied “Who are you?” asked the
little girl when she realized that a stranger was standing there
watching her “I’m a new friend of your mommy and your aunt” John
said reaching behind Belle’s ear and pulling out a coin making Belle
giggle who loved that trick. “And who are you?” “ I’m Belle” “Beautiful
name for a beautiful little lady” he said winking at her.
“Well I should be leaving now” John said realizing that he was there
over an hour “Oh so soon?” asked Sam disappointed. “Yes. Thank
you for the coffee” “No thank you for bringing my purse I really
appreciate this” Marlena replied “No problem” he answered smiling at
her making her blush. “Good bye Marlena, Sam, bye Belle” he said
waving at the little girl who from the first moment liked him “I hope I’ll
see you soon” John said and left. “Oh I’m in love” Sam said closing
the door behind him “Isn’t he gorgeous? I can’t wait to meet him
again” she said while glancing at Marlena who was watching John
leaving out of the window …
Chapter 5
“Belle leave the chocolates where they are” Marlena warned her
daughter who was trying to put her chocolate in the basket.
“But mommy..”
“No buts young lady. The house is full of chocolates” Marlena said
taking the chocolate from her daugheter’s hand and putting it on the
shelf again.
In moments like this Marlena was wishing that her mother wouldn’t
spoil little Belle so much with chocolates and candies.
“Yeah but grandma’s chocolates are with milk in it and that here is
with stwawbewies” Belle complained giving her mother a pouty face
hoping to change her mind that way.
“Stop acting like your aunt young lady. Begging isn’t working with me”
Marlena said blaming her twin for teaching Belle her how to beg to get
what she wants. Her mother and Sam were really spoiling the little one
and Marlena had her hands full trying to change her daughter’s habits.
“You meanie” Belle said angry crossing her little hands in front of her
chest. “I’m not gonna talk to you again” stomping her foot.
“Whatever you say sweetheart” Marlena replied deciding to ignore her
daughter’s antics.
—————-
Marlena was streching, trying to get the napkins from the top shelf
when she heard a familiar voice “ you need help?”
She turned around and saw John Black grinning at her. “Umm no
thank you, I can do it” She turned around, stretched again to try to
catch the napkin
“Are you sure you don’t want my help?” he asked when he saw that
she was having difficulities
“I said I can do it” Marlena replied a little bit harsh continuing to try to
catch the napkins while Belle was watching. “Ok I got it” Marlena said
truimphicaly few seconds before all napkins fell on her.
“Damn!” she said kneeling down trying to gather all the napkings
“Mommy you said a bad word” Belle complained.
“I think that now you do need my help” John said kneeling next to her.
“There is no need” she protested but it was to late since he had
gathered all the napkings and putted them on the shelf again.
“Umm thank you” she said feeling totally emberassed with all this
“You’re welcome” he replied trying to surpress his laughter.
After standing like 5 minutes without talking, John finally decided to
break the silence. “So how are you?”
“Fine”
“And your work?”
“Fine”
“Your family?”
“Fine”
“I guess you don’t talk much”
“Umm look I got to go. Belle lets go!” taking her daughter’s hand
“Marlena wait!” John yelled after them
“Yes?”
“Umm I wanna ask you something”
“What?”
“Since I’m new here and I don’t know that many people, would you go
out with me? I’m kind of bored staying inside all the time”
“Umm look Mr. Black..”
“John” he corrected her
“Yes, John.. I can’t go out with you, I have to stay home, I have work
to do”
“But..”
“I’m sorry but I can’t. Belle lets go!” she said grabing her daughter’s
hand again and hading towards the exit
—————–
“Mom we are home!” Marlena shouted, closing the door behind her.
Belle immediately ran towards the kitchen where Sam was.
“Oh did you buy flour?” Martha asked taking the bags from her
daughter, searching them
“Yes mom, don’t worry”
“You know that otherwise I can’t make apple pie without it”
“Mom I said that I bought it ” Marlena replied
“What did you buy for me?’ Sam asked coming out of the kitchen,
holding Belle in her arms.
“Nothing. Sorry”
“You are in a bad mood. Are you ok?”
“Yes just fine”
“Guess what auntie, we saw Mommy’s friend”
“Oh which one Belle?” Sam asked curious
“Belle, go wash your hands”
Belle decided to ignore her mother and continued chatting with Sam
and Martha.
“The nice mistew that came here auntie. Mommy’s napkings fell on
her and that nice man picked them”
“Oh you saw John?”
“Yes…Belle go wash your hands” hoping that, that way the subject
John would stop
“So how is John doing?” Sam asked once Belle with Martha left.
“Fine”
“What was he doing there?”
“What do usually people do at the supermarkets Sam? He was
shopping”
“Wow your mood is really bad. I hope you weren’t talking that way to
John”
“Will you stop that? My mood is just fine. I just can’t laugh all the time
like you. I have responsipilities.”
“ I’m sorry I shouldn’t snap at you that way” Marlena apologized
seeing her sister frowing
“Its ok, you wanna talk to me?”
“He asked me out”
“And what did you tell him?”
“I refused”
“What? Why would you do something like that?”
“I have paperwork to do Sam”
“Is this the excuse you found for him too, because we both know that it
isn’t true. Why did you refuse? Have you seeing him. I would kill to go
out with him”
“Then you should go out then”
“Oh believe me I would if he was interested, but he isn’t. He is
interested in you”
“Well that’s to bad, because I don’t want to see him that way. No one
that way”
“What are you talking about?” Sam asked taking her sisters hand,
both sitting on the couch.
“You know we never really talked about what happened to you 5 years
ago”
“Whats there to talk about? I was raped, got pregnant and had a child.
That’s all. And I think its time to move on”
“But honey that is the problem. You aren’t moving on. You got stuck
on the past. Sweetie you have to forget it”
“Don’t you think that it is a little bit difficult to forget when the result of
this horrible nightmare is walking here all day?”
“You mean Belle?”
“Of course who else. Don’t get me wrong I adore my daughter, she is
everything to me and I would do anything for her, I love her but
sometimes I look at her and I remember what happned that night. My
whole life changed that night. I was only 19. Only a child when I had I
child”
“Sweetie I know all that. I was there, but you have to let go”
“How am I supposed to let go and forget what happen when Belle
asks where her daddy is?”
“She asked you that?”
“Yes, yesterday. She asked me why she hasn’t a daddy like Tommy
has”
“And what did you tell her?”
“I changed the subject. I don’t know what to tell her”
“Just tell her that her daddy died”
“Its not that simple. What if she finds out that ther daddy is alive?
What am I suppose to do the? Just tell her, oh Bell you dad is indeed
alive but he was in gail all that time because he raped your mommy?”
“We will find a solution for that, and that is not the subject”
“Then what is it? Men?”
“Yes! John Black is a handsome, rich guy who is interested in you. I’m
just saying don’t reject him because one bad thing happened to you in
the past. Not all guys are bad. And remember John Black is not your
rapist”
“Since when do you have the ability you analyze people? I think that is
my job. And I don’t think you know John well enough to have an
opinion “
“Marlena please just think”
“No! This discussion is over. I’m not going out with him or any other
guy. And if you like him so much then you go out with him ”
Chapter 6a
“Hello?” “Hey are you ready?” John asked enthusiastic “Umm John…”
“Don’t tell me you changed your mind?” “Well…” “Come on you will
have a great time, I promise” “Ok then. Yes I am ready” “Alright. I’ll
pick you up in 15 minutes. You know this is not a real date, so no
formal dressing” “yes I know, don’t worry. See you then”
Sam was just coming out of the kitchen when she heard Marlena
saying “Shit” “Hey sis watch your language, you don’t want to scare
John off” Marlena didn’t even bother replying to her; she just ran
upstairs towards her room, Sam close behind “What is the matter with
you?” “Get out I want to change” Marlena ordered her sister “Change?
But for what reason? You look lovely. And don’t tell me you are shy
from me…we are twins hon.”
“I knew this whole dating thing was a stupid idea” “What are you
talking about? Did John cancel it?” “No he is coming in 15 minutes but
he told me its not a real date, so no formal dressing. It’s a sign Sam, I
tell you, things wont go well” “Just because you picked wrong clothes?
Gosh Marlena you act so dramatic. Everything will go fine. I will watch
after shortie and you and John will have a fabulous time” with that
Sam returned to the living room again, leaving Marlena to change
After she wore her jeans and a pink blouse, Marlena was coming
down the stairs when the doorbell rang. She heard her mother
greeting John on the door and inviting him inside.
“Hello John” John rose from his seat and went towards her. “Hello
Marlena, you look lovely” “Thank you” she replied, blushing knowing
that all the stares of her family were upon them “Don’t worry about
shortie, she will be fine with me” Samantha reassured her twin. “Umm
who is shortie?” John asked. “Belle. That’s a nickname Sam gave her”
After checking one last time on Belle and they said their goodbyes,
Marlena and John went to his car “Are you ready fur some fun?”
Marlena was just looking at him, not knowing what he meant by that
—————-
After driving for 20 minutes in silence, John pulled his car into a
parking space and glanced at a confused looking Marlena. Smiling he
opened his car door and walked over to hers to let her out.
“We are here. So what do you think?” he asked her somewhat afraid
that she might not like his idea. “An amusement park” she said turning
her head to John totally stunned. “Yes I thought we needed to relax a
little and have a great time”
“Oh I’m sorry if you don’t like we can go somewhere else” John tried to
reassure her when he saw her frowning “No.. No its.. that I am
touched. I never expected you to bring me to an amusement park, this
is sweet of you.. Thank you” “Your welcome” he replied blushing a
little. “I am glad that you liked my idea. But enough of this. Come on
lets go and have a great time”…
Chapter 6b
“From where should we start?” John asked looking around “Umm I
don’t know” “How about the big wheel?” Marlena’s face lighted up, a
huge smile on her face “From your expression I assume that you
approve? Come on then, the wheel is waiting for us” After they gave
their tickets they went and sat across from each other. Marlena was
like a schoolgirl, feeling anxious and excited. The wheel started to turn
and after one round it stopped at the top, where John and Marlena
were. John could see that Marlena started to loosen up; she wasn’t
afraid anymore like when they first arrived and that pleased him. “John
look! Wow, what a beautiful sight” From where they were they could
see the whole city “It certainly is a beautiful sight” John commended
looking at Marlena
After their wheel ride was over they went to the cars. Marlena picked a
red one and John a yellow. At first Marlena had some troubles starting
it but later it began to move and Marlena was driving slowly around
trying to avoid the other cars. John could only roll his eyes. He
decided to tease her a little. He went in front of her and blocked her
way. Marlena had an annoyed expression on her face while John was
grinning from ear to ear. Marlena managed to pass him but later he
was in front of her again. “Of course you know this means war” she
said. John started to laugh hard but his laughter stopped abruptly
when Marlena hit him with her car. “Fine you want war Dr. Evans, then
you will have war” John started to hit her with his car too and Marlena
tried her best to avoid him. They were chasing each other, laughing
hard. They continued to have fun even after the cars stopped. People
heard the laughter’s and turned their heads to see them, smiling at
them
“Where now?” Marlena asked once John helped her out of her car.
“Come with me..You want to try your luck Doc?” “Doc? Why did you
call me Doc?” “Well you are a shrink..so what better than Doc. You
don’t like?” “I like, I am just a little surprised” “You will get used to it
because I’m planning to call you that way from now on. Now will you
try first or me?” “Me! You know what they say, ladies first. What
exactly do I have to do?” “You have to hit the moving clown and if you
do then you will get a present” Marlena tried the first time but she
missed. “Try again” she missed again, the ball not even close to the
target. “And one more time” ”Ok I will hit it this time” instead of hitting
the clown, Marlena hit the presents, which luckily were all stuffed
animals. “You are hopeless” John murmured under his breath.
“Excuse me, what did you say?” “That it is my turn”. John took the ball
and threw it directly to the clown. “See? This is how it is done” “Yeah,
yeah” rolling her eyes at him. John got his present, it was a grey-white
rabbit. “Here” John handed Marlena his present “you can keep it” “But
John you won it” “So? I want you to take it and give it to Belle” “That is
very sweet of you, thank you” “Your welcome”
“Oh horses!!” Marlena said excitedly. “Come on, let’s go there”
Marlena had to drag John to where they horses were “Why didn’t you
want us to come here?” “Because I never rode a horse and I’m a
little…” “Afraid?” “You could say that” “You have nothing to be afraid
of, horses are great. Come on we will share the same one” When it
was their turn, Marlena picked a big brown one. She sat in front and
John with a little help sat behind her. “Horses aren’t bad” she told him
while stroking the horse’s head. “You love them aren’t you?” “They are
my favorites” John was still feeling a little afraid and so he wrapped his
arms around Marlena’s waist, bringing his body as close to hers as
possible. Marlena felt his body pressed against hers and she shivered
from the contact. It was the first time in 5 years that she allowed a
man to be so close to her. She felt uncomfortable and so she stopped
the horse “what’s wrong?” “I think its time to return. I am away from
home way too long. Belle must be getting worried and I have a long
day tomorrow at work”
They arrived at her house around midnight. “Thanks for the wonderful
evening. I had a great time” “I am glad. I had a wonderful time too.
Don’t forget to take your bunny with you” “Ok. I better should be going.
Goodnight John” “Night Doc” Marlena got out of his car, shut the door
behind her, waved him one more time and then went inside
Chapter 7
The smell of pancakes woke Marlene slowly up. She turned from the
other side and looked at her clock “8.00 Time to get up” She got out of
bed, put her robe on and went to her bathroom. 10 minutes later she
got out dressed in jeans and blue blouse. First she went to her
daughter’s room to check on her. Her blanket was hanging from the
bed and after she fixed it again, and gave Belle a kiss, she left the
room, closing the door a little behind her.
She went to the kitchen, where Sam was surrounded by papers.
“Good morning” “Good morning Marnie” “School work?” Marlena
asked while she grabbed a pancake and purred coffee on her cup and
sat next to her twin. “I am correcting some tests” “Then it would be
better if I go. I don’t want to interrupt” “No your are not interrupting.
The truth is that I could use the break. After all I am curious to hear
about your date” “It wasn’t a real date Sam” “Excuse me but when a
man takes a woman out I think it is a date” “We didn’t go for dinner if
that is what you are thinking, nor at the movies” “Then were did you
go” “To the Amusement park” “Excuse me?” “John thought it would be
good idea going to the Amusement park, to loosen up and just have
fun” “Aww how sweet of him, strange but sweet” “Yeah I find it sweet
too. He even won a stuffed animal; a rabbit and he gave it to me so I
can give it to Belle” “That’s sweet. Belle will flip out” “Yeah” Marlena
got up and stood next to the kitchen window, staring outside
“Since everything went ok yesterday then why are you that way?” “I
don’t know” “What’s wrong?” “I just feel weird around John. I can’t
understand it” “Uncomfortable you mean?” “Comfortable and
uncomfortable at the same time. Do I make any sense?” “Not really”
“We had a great time, joking around, I had loosen up, laughing but
then suddenly it changed. We went to the horses but John was afraid
so we shared the same horse. He wrapped his arms around me and
pressed his body to mine and I freaked. I stopped the horse and we
returned home” “Honey it is natural. You went a terrible ordeal and
John is the only man that came to close to you, and you got a little
scared. You will get over it in time. Just trust yourself. John is a great
guy and you will realize it soon.” “We’ll see. Now I’ll better let you
work” Marlena said getting up from the chair “I’ll take Belle to the park
so you can have privacy” “Ok thanks Marnie. Love you” “Love you too”
—————
It was 1 almost dinnertime and Marlena with Belle returned from their
day at the park. “Hey you finally returned” Martha said taking a dirty
Belle from Marlena “Yeah we would have come sooner but a little
stubborn girl didn’t want to leave the swings” “I’m not stubbon” “come
on young lady lets get you all cleaned up” “No bath Granny. I don’t
stink” “Yes you do. Say bye bye to your mommy” “Bye mommy” “Bye
sweetie pie, I’ll see you later” “Oh I forgot to tell you” Martha said
stopping half ways on the stairs “What is it?” “Some flowers arrived for
you when you were at the park” “From who?” “I didn’t look” “Ok
thanks”
Marlena went to the living room where the flowers were lying on the
table. She took them and searched for the card.
“Marlena I want to thank you for spending your day with me yesterday.
It meant a lot to me. I look forward to see you again”
PS I hope you like the flowers
John
Marlena picked the phone and dialed. She waited few seconds and
then she heard his voice “John Black” “Hi John” “Hey! What’s up
Doc?” both couldn’t help but laugh with what he said, “You just
sounded like the cartoon that Belle watches” “Yeah I know I am too
funny” “With a big ego” “Ouch that hurt” “Am I interrupting something?”
“Nope just some stupid reports. So what can I do for you?” “I just want
to thank you for the flowers, I love them” “Your welcome and I am glad
you like them. I wasn’t sure about how you would feel” “John can I ask
you something?” “Sure” “Do you have any plans for tommorow?” “No
why?” “How about going out for dinner? I know a great restaurant that
makes delicious Italian food” “That sounds good” “Ok. I finish from
work at 6” “I’ll pick you up at 8” “Ok. Bye John” “Bye Marlena, have a
good day” “you too” I can’t believe I invited him for dinner Marlena
thought once she realized what she did. Oh Marlena where are you
getting yourself into?
Chapter 8a
It was around 8 o clock in the morning and John was home, drinking
coffee and reading a newspaper. He was starting to get bored, same
depressing news, when suddenly the phone ran. John got up and
picked the phone that was hanging on the kitchen wall “John Black
here”. He had a huge smile on his face when he realized who was on
the other end “I know you now for 4 months and everytime I call you,
you answer the same way “John Black here”” Marlena mimicked him
“We need to change this habit of yours” “Now you want to control my
life too? How I live and what I say?” “I am serious John, this “John
Black here is getting old”” John could only laugh hard. He and Marlena
came very close the last months, they were spending time together
everyday and if they couldn’t see each other then they would talk on
the phone. “It is so good to hear from you Doc. How are you?” “I am
good. And you?” “Good too” “Good”
“Is there a reason you called so early? It is the first time you call this
hour, everything alright?” “Yes everything is fine, sort of. Actually I
called because I have a huge favor to ask you and I don’t know if you
will do it and I don’t know what else to do, I have thought and thought
and you are the only solution but I don’t know if you will agree..”
Marlena was talking and talking and it took her a while to realize that
John wasn’t saying anything “John? You there?” “Yes” “And why
aren’t you saying anything?” “I can’t, you are talking all the time…
Marlena?” John asked when suddenly it became quiet from the other
end “You there?” “Yes” “And why aren’t you talking?” “You said I talk
to much and you couldn’t talk so I stopped talking so you could talk”
They both started to laugh with this whole situation “So what can I do
for you Doc?” “Well as you know Christmas are approaching and it is
a very busy year for me, my patients feel very vulnerable, I have to be
there for them all the time..” “Doc you are doing it again. Just say what
you want to say” “Can you watch after Belle today? There I said it”
John was surprised, he never expected to hear something like this
“Umm you know what? Forget it” “No, no, I would love to. You just
surprised me that’s all. Are you sure? What about your parents? Or
Sam?” “My parents are out of town and Sam is busy with School and I
don’t want to disturb her with Belle and I knew you weren’t working
today. And Belle knows you and feels comfortable with you… so…” “I
would love to watch after shortie” “Thank you so much” “Your
welcome, and Doc?”
“Yes?’ “You can talk to me about anything, you don’t have to hesitate,
that is why friends are for ” “Ok” Marlena was glad that he wasn’t
standing next to her or else he would see her blushing from head to
toe
“What time will you bring Belle here?” “Around 8.30 ok?” “Ok. I
promise to take good care of her” “I know and thank you again” “No
problem” “Talk to you soon then” “Can’t wait. Bye Doc” “Bye”
At 8.30 Marlena brought Belle to John’s. She told him that she would
come around 6 to pick her up and If he needs anything to call her. she
kissed Belle around 10 times her bunny too thanked John around 20
times and then left.
Chapter 8b
For Marlena the day seemed unending. The hours too long till she
could pick her daughter from John up. She was worried about how
John and Belle were doing despite the fact that she called few hours
earlier. John informed her that he and Belle were watching The
Beauty and the Beast, but still she was worried
Finally it was 5 o clock and she could leave. Once she got inside her
car, she phoned John to let him know she is coming “Hello..” she
heard the sweet voice of her daughter from the other end “Belle?”
“Mommyyyyy” “Hey sweetie pie, why are you answering the phone?
Where is John?” “I was quicker than uncle John mommy” Marlena was
surprised that her daughter called John that way, uncle. Without she
even realizing it, John became an important person to the entire
Evans family. Everyone liked him, and for Belle he was her hero.
“Honey where is John?” “Right here Doc” John answered out of
breath. “Is she giving you a hard time?” “How can a little person have
so much energy?” Marlena laughed when she heard Belle arguing
with John “I am not little” “well I guess you have a great time there”
“Yeah we do, are you still at the hospital?” “I finished with work, so I
am heading to your place” “Ok Doc, talk to you in a little while” “Yep,
bye” “Bye”
15 minutes later Marlena was knocking at John’s door. “Come in” she
could hear him yelling from inside. So she opened the door and went
inside. “Hello?” “We are in the kitchen Doc” “Hi there”
“Mommyyyyyyyy” Belle shouted, climbing of her chair and running to
her mothers arms “Oh honey I missed you” “Missed you too mommy”
Together they went where John was “Hi..” “Hey Doc. How was work?”
“Good” She could see the kitchen was a mess “Oh my what did you
do hear” “We are going to eat Fruit Loops mommy” “At this hour?”
“Hey, you can eat that every hour and not just in the morning. You
want too?” “Nahh leave it better” “”Don’t tell me you don’t eat that kind
of stuff because they will ruin your Silhouette” “Well…” “Come on
Doc..” “Ok” . The three of them were sitting and eating their fruit loops,
joking around and laughing, looking like a family.
Once Belle finished with hers she climbed off her chair and went
straight to the living room “Hey where are you going?” John asked
“The beauty and the beast” “Again, didn’t you and Belle see this few
hours earlier?” “Yeah and now she got obsessed with the song. We
heard it million times” “Uncle John come here” “Excuse me Doc, I
have to dance with her” “Dance?” “Yeah I promised her that so she
could eat” “you blackmailed my daughter?” “Yeah, but it worked”
Once in the living room, Marlena sat on the couch, she didn’t want to
miss it and after John opened the stereo, he went to Belle again who
was waiting excitedly “hop on Shortie” he showed her his feet. Once
Belle was on his feet and the music started to play, they began to
dance
Tale as old as time
True as it can be
Barely even friends
Than somebody bends
Unexpectedly
It warmed Marlena’s heart to see them together like this. She felt so
happy, so content with this moment and she wouldn’t change that with
anything
Just a little change
Small, to say the least
Both a little scared
Neither one prepared
Beauty and the Beast
“Now you mommy dance” “What? Oh no, I prefer to watch you two”
“No you will dance too mommy” Belle went and dragged her where
John was staying and then she went and sat at the couch watching
them “Are you in the mood for dancing Doc?” Marlena slowly placed
her hand to John’s and together they started to sway to the music
Ever just the same
Ever a surprise
Ever as before
Ever just as sure
As the sun will arise
Ever just the same
Ever a surprise
Ever as before
Ever just as sure
As the sun will arise
As they continued to dance John pulled her closer to him, trying to
savor this moment forever. It was perfect
Tale as old as time
Tune as old as song
Bittersweet and strange
Finding you can change
Learning you were wrong
Certain as the sun
Rising in the east
Tale as old as time
Song as old as rhyme
Beauty and the beast.
Tale as old as time
Song as old as rhyme
Beauty and the beast.
John, caught up in the moment, lowered his head and kissed Marlena
tenderly on the lips. It was a light kiss but it caused to both of them
butterflies in their stomachs. John pulled away and watched that
Marlena was looking surprised at him. John lowered his head again
and barely brushed his lips with hers. Marlena let out a soft whimper.
Her eyes were closed and her lips lightly parted. He kissed her again,
but this time it was a long and sensuous kiss, slipping his tongue
inside her mouth and touching hers
Beauty and the beast
Marlena felt like she was going to faint. John was in a same condition.
When John pulled her closer to him, their bodies pressed together,
only then Marlena realized what they were doing and she pulled away
“Please don’t” “Marlena I am sorry” “Pls, lets forget it” she couldn’t
stop crying and she didn’t even know why “Belle and I should better
leave” Belle had fallen asleep on the couch and Marlena carefully took
her in her arms
“I am sorry that I made you cry” “It isn’t you. You didn’t do anything
wrong. It is me, believe me. Thanks for watching after Belle. Goodbye”
Marlena was gone before John could say anything else .
Chapter 8c
John was cleaning the kitchen from the mess that he and Belle made.
Him mind always repeating the same scene “I am sorry that I made
you cry” “It isn’t you. You didn’t do anything wrong. It is me, believe
me” “Oh Doc, please forgive me, I didn’t meant to make you unhappy”
He wanted to call her to make sure she was alright, but from the other
hand he knew she needed her time alone
He decided to let her alone for tonight, and tomorrow morning he
would call her. He was washing the dishes when he heard a knock on
the door. Once he dried his hands he went to open it “Doc!” not
expecting to see her again for tonight “Hi..” He could see that she was
crying, her eyes were red “Please come in” “Thanks”
John wanted to ask her if she was ok, but he didn’t want to make her
sad again “What are you doing?” “Washing the dishes” “Can I help?”
“Doc that is not necessary” “Please” “Ok. You can dry them” For the
next 10 minutes they were just doing the dishes both lost in their
thoughts till Marlena broke the silence “I am sorry that I left that way”
“you don’t have to apologize Doc, I should be the one apologizing for
bringing you in this awkward situation by kissing you” Marlena started
crying again and John wanted to kick himself for upsetting her again.
He took the towel from her hands and he hugged her, letting her cry
Once she stopped crying she looked at him embarrassed “you don’t
have to feel that way Doc, I am your friend” “I know. Can we talk?” “Of
course” They settled on the couch, facing each other “You must be
wondering why I cry so often, why I feel so uncomfortable with you”
“Umm yeah.. I told you that I am your friend, we know each other for
almost 5 months, you don’t have to feel uncomfortable with me” “I
know and I am trying not to but it is difficult” “What do you mean?”
“Something happened to me in the past and I think it is time for you to
know the truth” “Ok” “It happened when I was in College.. It was my
first year there and while Sam had no problem fitting in, I had
problems following. So I was studying a lot, I couldn’t see my friends
and I had this stupid obsession with my weight. I thought that I was
fat, and so I was jogging everyday for hours to lose weight” John was
about to speak but Marlena prevented him “please let me continue
now that I started” “Ok..Go on” “One evening I went jogging like usual,
and after I finished I was about to return when someone grabbed me
from behind. He placed his hand on my mouth and he warned me not
to scream. He laid me on the ground and ripped my clothes off” She
could see that John paled “He raped me. I was so terrified, I was
pleading him not to do it but he didn’t listen. After everything was over,
he left and I was lying naked on the ground. I returned to the dorm and
vowed not to tell anyone about it” “Oh Marlena I am so sorry
sweetheart” She could see that he was crying along with her “I
couldn’t hide it a secret for long; my family learned about it from the
way I was reacting. I put charges and they caught him, his name was
Chase O Connor. He was in prison for 5 years” “I am so very sorry for
what you went through, I know it must have been a nightmare for you”
“It was, and a part of this nightmare still continues, and it will continue
forever” “What do you mean?” “Belle was the result of this rape. When
I found out I was pregnant I thought doing an abortion or giving her for
adoption, but I couldn’t do it. It wasn’t her fault what her father did and
so I kept her. She changed my life for ever, she makes me happy, but
sometimes I look at her and I remember what happened” “That is why
you called her Belle? Beauty?” “Yes, she is the only beautiful thing
that happened to me from this whole terrible ordeal. I went to a shrink
I even moved here with my family to Salem to make a new start.
Sometimes I feel like I have moved on but other times I just break
down and cry for hours. You are the first man that I allowed to come
so close to me ever since all this happened and that is why I feel
uncomfortable when you are so close to me. That’s why I panicked
when you kissed me. If you don’t want to be my friend anymore I will
understand it, I just thought you should know” “Why would you think
that? I admire you Doc, and I want to be here for you and Belle”
“Thank you, that means a lot to me”
“Since we are so honest right now, I have to tell you something too,
but I don’t want to freak you out” “I would prefer to hear what ever it is”
“Ok..Here it goes..Marlena..I am in love with you, I love you” He could
see the shock written on her face “I felt drawn to you from the first
moment I saw you, and you had me hooked from the first time you
talked to me” Marlena couldn’t believe what she was hearing
“John..I..” “Its ok Doc, I don’t expect for you to say it back, it is too
soon and I understand it. I just wanted to let you know. I love you and I
will always be by your side. Your are the best thing that happened to
me and I am not planning to let you go away” Marlena was so touched
with his words that she started crying again. John took her in his arms,
rocking back and forth, until she fell asleep in his arms from
exhaustion
30 minutes later Marlena slowly woke up, still in John’s arms “Hey”
“Hey” “I fell asleep hmm?” “Yeah, after all this crying” She blushed and
John took her hands and kissed them “You don’t have to feel shy
about that. It was wonderful having you so close to me” “For me too.
Well I should better go, I have to work tomorrow. Thank you so much
for listening” “I will always listen never forget that. I will always be here
for you simple because I love you” Marlena smiled at him. She
grabbed her coat and purse and opened the door “Bye” “Bye Doc”
John closed the door behind him and was about to go to the kitchen
when he heard a knock on the door again. “Doc? Did you forget
something?” “No..I just wanted to do this before I leave” and she
kissed him lightly on the lips “Night” and she was gone “Night Doc”
touching his lips where she kissed him few minutes ago.
Marlena was sitting in her office trying to do some paperwork but her
mind was always drifting to her last conversation with John, where she
told him about her past “Did I do good that I told him? I probably
scared him with what I told him” Just then her phone rang “Hello?”
“Hey Doc” “Hey John” “How are you?” “Ok and you?” “Good. Hey are
you too busy?” “No just doing some paper work” “Will you finish
soon?” “Yeah and why those many questions?” “Because I have a
proposition for you and Belle if you ladies don’t have anything else to
do” “What kind?” “Do you want to help me pick a Christmas tree? So
what do you say Doc?” “I would love that” she replied smiling and
thinking how John always knew what to say to make her feel better
“Great! So what time are you finished?” “At 12” “Ok, then I’ll pick you
up at 1. 30 ok?” “OK” “Oh and Doc?” “Yes?” “I missed you” “Me too”
“And something else” “What else?” “I love you” She so wished she
could say it back to him but she knew she wasn’t ready “Goodbye”
“Bye”
At 13.30 John went to the Evans’s house “Hi John, come on in”
“Thanks Doc” “is Shortie ready?” “Yes and she is pretty curious” “I bet”
Just then Belle came “Where we going?” “Hey! Where are my hug and
my “Hello uncle John” greeting?” Belle went and hugged him “Hello
uncle John. Now where we going?” “Anxious?” ‘What does it mean?”
“Impatient to find out?” “Yes Belle is impatient” “Well then we should
leave” “Not till you tell Belle. Belle is curious” “I can see that. Shall we
go ladies? ”
“Ok we are here” John said once they arrived at the store “You still
want to know what we will do here shortie?” “Yeah” “Ok, the three of
us are going to buy a nice and beautiful Christmas tree for my house
and we will put the ornaments together. What do you think?” “I like!!!
I’m gonna search for a pretty one” “Ok” Once Belle went to search
Marlena turned to John “thank you for including us” “Doc you don’t
have to thank me. I love you and Belle and I love spending my days
with you two” Marlena didn’t know what to say. She still couldn’t
believe John was real. That she found a man who loved her
“Sometimes I think it is too good to be true” Just then John took her in
his arms. Marlena buried her face between his neck and shoulder,
inhaling his scent, wishing this moment would last forever
Belle returned little while later “So did you find a nice tree?” “Yes but I
found something else too” “What did you find sweetie” “Santa. Mommy
can we go to him?” “Sure” The three of them went where Santa was
and Belle went to his lap while Marlena and John were standing near
“What do you want little girl for Christmas?” Belle looked at Marlena
and John and said, “I want a daddy. Then mommy and Belle would be
happy and mommy wouldn’t cry anymore ” Marlena felt like someone
slapped her
Later the three of them took their tree and went to John’s place.
“Alright how do you want us to decorate the tree Belle?” “With or..or..”
“Ornaments” “Yes, and ribbons, and lights, colored ones and white
lights, and snow, and can we put popcorn ribbon too? What’s so
funny?” she asked when she saw John laughing “All these on this
tree?” “Yeah” “Isn’t it to much?” “No the tree will be pretty” Marlena still
affected from what Belle asked, went to the kitchen to be alone for few
moments
“Hey you ok?” John asked following her in the kitchen “I will be” “I
noticed how quiet you were when we returned and now while we were
decorating. Is it what Belle said?” “Yeah” “I am sorry” “Sometimes it is
so difficult. She asks me about her daddy and I don’t know what to tell
her” “I know it is difficult and if you need my help please don’t hesitate
to ask” “Ok, thanks. Umm I think I will tell her the truth soon. I think it is
better than telling her lies” “I think so too. And please don’t worry so
much. Everything will work out fine” “You are always optimistic” “I try
to be”
“Mommy mommy come here the tree is ready” Marlena and John
returned to the living room and after they placed the angel on top, they
opened the lights “Its wonderful. You did a good job” “No we did a
good job Doc. Marry Christmas” “Marry Christmas” and she kissed his
lips lightly “John?” “Yes?” “What do you think about coming Christmas
day for dinner?” “I would love that” .
Chapter 10
The holidays passed without Marlena even realizing it and now she
was back to work again. It was a little difficult considering it was the
first day. Her last patient left 10 minutes ago and she had a 20
minutes break before the next one would come. She was sitting on her
chair ,remembering they days that went by. A smile formed on her lips
when she remembered John and how fun they had spending
Christmas together and with her family. “ I still sometimes believe you
aren’t real” Marlena said touching the bracelet that John gave her as a
gift . For the first time in many years Marlena was feeling happy again
and that frighted her a litte believing that her happiness wouldn’t last.
Her thoughts were cut abruptly when her phone started to ring “ Dr.
Evans” “Xoxoxo” John could hear Marlena giggling from the other end
“What’s so funny Doc?” “You. You do know that Christmas are over
right?” “Not for me, uh huh, I have Christmas all year” “You sound like
a child” “Well I am a child” She started to giggle again “You should
change your job from Bussiness man to Comedian” “Is this a
compliment or an insult?” “I don’t know…” “Ok I got it” “You are a smart
man. So what can I do for you John?” “Huh? Ooohhh nothing, I just
wanted to talk with you” “What a coincidence! I was going to call you
too” “ Oh the great minds hmm?” “Uh huh” “And what did you want to
tell me?” “I wanted to ask you if you would be home because I want to
stop by” “Yep I’ll be home and my door is always open for you” “Ok I’ll
come once I finish with my work” “Ok” “Ok, talk to you then Doc”
“Alright” “Bye Doc, I love you” “Bye”
Once she placed the receiver to its place , her patient came . “Oh Mrs.
Smith come in”….
Afer Marlena finished with her work she went to John’s place. “Come
in!!” she could hear John yelling from inside . “ Hi” “Hey. Have a sit”
“What are you doing?” “Taking the Christmas tree down” “Really? And
I thought you would keep it up all year” “Very funny. You want
something?” “No I am fine” “Ok” “John….” Yeah” “I have something for
you” “ Ok” “Here” and she handed him a present “Marlena we
exchanged gifts , you didn’t have to buy me this too” “ I know, and I
didn’t buy it, its from me but I wanted to give it to you” “Alright”
John sat on the couch and started to unwrap the present while
Marlena who was sitting next to him was playing nervously with the
button of her jacket. “There is nothing inside Doc” “Continue” “Ok”
After a while John found a piece of paper wrapped in a red ribbon. He
removed the ribbon and read what the paper was saying.
Marlena could see he had tears in his eyes. “Omg are you serious?
Do you mean it?” “ Yes I do” “Oh my God Doc !” On the paper were
written with red color the words, “ I LOVE YOU “ Marlena could see
John was pretty shocked “ You don’t like?” “ Of course honey. I want
to hear saying those words to me” “ Ok , I Marlena Evans love you
John Black very much” John swept her in his arms , kissing her
passionate on the lips “You have no idea how long I’ve waited to hear
those 3 words from you” he told her once he broke the kiss “I know
and I am sorry but …” “You were scared. I understand that and you
don’t have to apologize . You went a terrible ordeal and you needed
time to trust me” “Yes. Thanks for understanding” “Of course I do. I
love you” “ I love you too John”
They were lying in the couch together, just feeling happy and content .
Marlena rose up a little and looked at him in the eyes “ What honey”
“Nothing just looking” “ok” “John?” Yes?” “can I tell you something?”
“Of course” “You know now that I love you “ “yes and you made me
really happy” “I am happy too but would you be too upset if I told you
to wait till we ….” “Huh” “You know” “ I Know but I want to hear you say
it” “ Alright, would you be too upset if I told you to wait till we make
love?” “No” “You sure?” “ Yes. I don’t care when we make love. The
only thing I care is for you to feel safe and comfortable. Being with you
just like we are this moment is all I need. And when you feel ready you
can tell me” “Thank you” “Your welcome and I mean it” “Ok” Marlena
said kissing him softly on the lips “Merry Christmas Doc” “Christmas
are over John” “Not for me. Right now it is still Christmas for me” “ You
are weird but I love you. Merry Christmas”
The Jarlena Journal 