five

Chapter 21

Carrie went over to Marlena, and put her arms around her. She heard
Carrie sobbing, and pulled her back.

"What's going on here?"

"Marlena, you better sit down," said Mike.

Marlena looked at the faces of her children, her good friends, and knew
she wasn't ready to hear what Mike had to say.

"We got the file last night, from the doctors."

"Yes, what is it?"

"Roman has a bacterial infection, that he contracted somewhere in the
Middle East."

"Well, we can find what ever medicine is needed, and start to fight
it."

"No Marlena, this one Dad has, it's deadly."

"Mom, Dad's dying, and there is no cure."

"I got the lab work back, and they have confirmed it," said Mike.

Marlena looked at everyone, she started to feel her head spin, and the
air in the room, seemed very stale, she felt she needed clean air to
breathe.

"Doc, you have gone white."

"I need some air, I can't breath."

Laura went over to the doors and opened them. Marlena started to breath
in the fresh air, coming through the doors. She looked at Mike.

"No, this can't be true."

"I'm sorry Marlena, but it is. I brought the blood work reports over,
and the hospital files for you to read."

He handed them to Marlena. She read the file, then looked over the test
results, and compared them. Then she looked at Mike.

"He's getting worse, from these latest test results."

"Yes, he is."

Marlena looked at John.

"He doesn't have much time."

John went over and sat beside her and put his arms around her.

"Mom, Dad's been asking for you."

"I need a minute, can you tell him I'll be up in a minute."

"Sure," and Eric left.

"Marlena, I hate to burden you, but there's something else you should
know," said Carrie.

"What is that?"

"Kristen has offered to pay for a wedding, for Sami and Austin. So Dad
can see one of his daughters marry, she suggested that they renew their
vows."

"She doing what?" said John.

"They haven't given her an answer, but I have given Austin his freedom
from me. I can't sit around and wait."

"Oh honey, I'm sorry."

"It's okay Marlena, really. Dad's more important, he needs all of our
attention, can't be worrying about something that should have ended
months ago."

"Sami, does she know?"

"Yes, she was here last night, but she doesn't know about the further
test results. Eric was supposed to tell her, but he hasn't."

"We are going to have to tell her," said John.

"Yes, I know," said Marlena.

The door bell rang, and John went out to answer it. Then he came in with
Caroline.

"Hi Caroline," said Marlena.

"I came over to see Roman. Eric called to tell me about what the
doctors have diagonized Roman having. I can't believe that we got him
back, just to lose him again."

"I know Grandma," said Carrie.

"The only thing we can do is make him as comfortable as we can," said
Mike.

"No! There has to be a cure," said Marlena.

"Marlena, the doctors say in their reports, that nothing can be done.
I'm sorry," said Mike.

"I'm going upstairs to see my son," and Caroline left the room.

"I should go up and see him," said Marlena.

"Give Caroline some time, and then go up," said John.

Marlena stood in the room, shaking her head. She was having a hard time
believing the news. John went over and put his arms around her.

"We will look for a cure for Roman, there has to be something."

Mike moved over to Carrie, and looked at her. She was crying. Carrie was
thinking that life just wasn't fair. She lost the love of her life, and
was going to loose her father once again.

"Oh Mike," and moved towards him.

He put his arms around her, and held her tight.

"I'll be here for you Carrie, always."

Laura smiled at teh sight of her son, comforting Carrie. The the silence
was broken by Eric yelling;

"MOM, HURRY! IT'S DAD!"

~~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~*

They all ran out of the room, up the stairs. When they reached Roman's
bedroom, the nurse was giving CPR as Caroline was watching Kristen giving
Roman, mouth to mouth. Mike ran over and told the nurse to move aside,
and he took over, as Marlena told Kristen she would take over.

"Okay Mike, check for a pulse."

"No, nothing!"

They started to work on Roman again, as the nurse came over with a needle
to give to Mike, when Marlena yelled out;

"He's breathing."

John had his arm around Caroline and Carrie.

"He's fine now," said Mike.

Mike went over to the corner and wheeled the oxgyen over to Roman's bed.
He put the tubing over his face and started the oxgyen, then motioned the
nurse over to the corner.

"What happened?"

"He was talking to his Mother, then he started to cough, badly. Eric
was getting some water, and I was bringing the oxgyen over to his bed,
because I noticed that he was having a hard time breathing, that's when
he stopped breathing."

"We have to take him to the hospital."

"No Mike, I'm not going to any hospital."

Mike turned and looked at Roman.

"Please Roman, we could take better care of you there."

"No! I refuse to go."

"Okay Roman, but I am going to get some more medical equipment here."

"Mike, don't worry about the cost," said John.

Mike shook his head, and left the room.

"Doc, I have been waiting for you to come and see me."

"I'm sorry Roman. I was visiting with Belle."

"Come here, and sit with me. I need to talk to you."

Marlena went over, and sat on the bed.

"Could I have some privacy. I need to talk to Marlena."

Everyone nodded their heads, and left the room. Roman looked at her, and
smiled.

"I guess you know the whole truth now."

"Yes, Mike told me."

"Then you know I haven't got much time. I need to know that you are
happy, are you?"

Marlena felt the tears in her eyes.

"Yes, I am ."

"Your alone though."

"No Roman, I'm not. The children consume my life, my work, my friends."

"Your friends, that includes Kristen and John?"

"Yes, John is a very close friend, he's always been there for me."

"Kristen?"

"Roman, I need to tell you something about Kristen."

"What's that?"

"We aren't as close as she makes it out we are."

"Oh, why is that?"

"Some things that has happened in the past."

"Because she married John?"

"No, that's not it. We don't need to discuss it, it's not important."

"Okay Doc, but John, he's a big part of your life?"

"He's Belle's father, he's a big part of her life, and I am for Brady."

"Belle and Brady are very close."

"Yes, oh yes. They love each other,very much."

"That's great, that they are so close. Doc, I would like to see Belle,
can it be arranged?"

"Sure, I'll bring her by tomorrow, is that okay?"

"Yeah, that would be great. Kristen said you were alone, but
truthfully, is their someone in your life?"

Marlena didn't know what to say. She didn't want to lie anymore to Roman.

"Roman, look you should rest, we can talk later."

"No Doc, your not going to avoid this question, I need to know if
there's a chance for us."

John walked into the room.

"I'm sorry to interupt, but Marlena, there's an important call for
you."

"Oh, thank you. Roman, I will be back later."

Marlena started to get up, and Roman grabbed her arm.

"We will continue this."

Marlena smiled and got up and left with John. When they got out in the
hall, John took Marlena in his arms.

"No phone call, I came back to see if you had finished talking and
heard Roman asking you about having someone in your life."

"John, if he wasn't dying, I would have told him the truth, but how can
I do that to him, with the little time he has left. I can't hurt him."

"I know. Let's go downstairs."

"I should wait till the nurse comes back."

I'll go in with Roman."

"Okay, I'll send her back."

"Okay."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~*~*~*~*

John went into Roman's room and he looked over at John.

"Roman, I thought I would come in, and sit with you till the nurse
get's back."

"I'm glad. I wanted to talk to you."

"Okay,what about?"

"You and Doc. I need to know what your relationship is with her?"

"What do you mean Roman?"

"Are you and Doc having an affair?"

John was shocked by the question.

"No Roman, we are close friends. She has helped me through some very
diffcult times, as I have been there for her. Plus the children, they
bond us together."

"Yes, I know. She told me that Brady is very close to her."

"Yes, he looks to her as his mother."

"How does Kristen feel about that?"

"She accepts it."

"You have a good marriage?"

"Why do you ask?"

"I have eyes John. She loves you, I can see that, but when your with
her, you seem like you don't want to be in the same room as her."

"Well Roman, to be honest with you, we are having problems. I found out
she was decieving me about something, and if you don't mind, I rather not
talk about it."

"Sure, I understand. To painful?"

"Yes, very. So our marriage is kinda strained right now."

"I'm sorry. I guess Marlena has been helping you through this?"

"Yes, she has."

"John, if I knew that I would be getting better, I have to tell you,
that I would try and win Marlena's love back."

John looked at Roman, hiding his surprise by what Roman had said.

"You still love her?"

"Oh yes, I wish I had tried to work things out, instead of leaving,but
it's the Brady pride."

"Roman, Marlena and I didn't mean to hurt you, but we didn't have
anytime to resolve our feelings."

"John, it's past history. I forgave you, and Marlena, so there's no
reason in dwelling on it."

"Yes, you are right."

The nurse came into the room.

"Well, I'll let you get some rest. Talk to you later."

John left the room, and Roman watched him leave, glaring at him........

To be continued.....

Chapter 22

Caroline was wiping the tears away, off her face, as Marlena passed her a
cup of tea.

"You alright Caroline?"

"Yes dear, I'm just in shock, knowing that I will be losing my son...I
just got him back."

"Yes, I know."

"Marlena, what plans to you have now, with Roman being back?"

"Caroline, nothing has changed. I still love John, and when we feel the
time is right, we have to tell Roman. He can't think that everything is
the way Kristen says it is, it's wrong to lie to him now."

"Marlena , you can't be serious?"

"Caroline, I care about Roman, but I love John. You know what we have
been through, just to get were we are. I'm happy Roman is back, with his
family, and for his children, but he needs to know the truth and that is
I love John and we are going to be married, and we can't be together."

"Why Marlena, you loved him once. You should be by his side."

"No Caroline, I will be there to help him anyway I can, but I belong
with John, I'm sorry."

Carrie and Mike came into the room at the end of the conversation. Carrie
looked at her Grandmother.

"Grandma, you can't expect Marlena to let Dad think that they have a
chance that they will be together. That's like what I am going through.
It's not fair to Marlena of John."

"I'm sorry Carrie, but I just can't understand," and got up and left
the room. They heard the front door being closed.

"I'm sorry Marlena, Grandma hd no right to make any demands on you. I
understand how you feel about Dad, and I know you will be there for him,
when he needs you, but I also think he needs to know the truth, soon."

"Thank you Carrie," and went over and embraced her.

When Carrie moved away from Marlena, she noticed the rings on Marlena's
hand.

"What are these?"

"Oh, John gave them to me, it's our commitment to each other. I had to
take off my ring, so John bought these for me. We kinda did our own
private wedding between the two of us. He's wearing a band on his
finger,"

"Oh, that is so romantic."

Carrie looked at the rings and smiled at Marlena.

"They are beautiful. Marlena, I'm going home. Mike has some names of
some Doctors, and we are going to call them, and tell them of Dad's
condition. Maybe we can get some kind of information to help him."

"Okay sweetie."

"I asked Kate if I could borrow a fax machine, so we can send Dad's
hospital records. I want to get on this right away."

"Okay, you go, I'll be here for the rest of the evening."

"Call if you need a break. I'll come right over."

"About Sami?"

"Mike and I will drop in and tell her."

"Thanks sweetheart."

Marlena walked Carrie and Mike out and kissed them both good-bye. Eric
and Laura came in from the garden, as Marlena walked into the room.

"Mom, where's Grandma?"

"She left honey. Mike and Carrie have gone back to her apartment to
make some calls about Daddy."

"Maybe I should go over and help. I should go see Sami."

"Carrie's going to tell her about the lab results."

"I was supposed to do it, but I just didn't want to do it over the
phone. Mom, do you believe that Sami is faking?"

"Sweetie, if she is, she's quite an actress."

"She will slip Mom, and then maybe, Carrie and Austin can put things
back to what it was before."

"Eric, I think Carrie would do a lot of soul searching. She's very
hurt, that Austin doubts what she feels is the truth, in her heart your
sister is faking and has her memory back."

"Do you think she has made the right decision by telling Austin it's
over?"

"She feels in her heart it's best. She has gone through a lot this past
year, heck, the past four years, since your sister came back home. They
were close, when Sami first came back, but when she found out the man she
was in love with, was your sister's boyfriend. she started to scheme, and
I feel guilty, with the affair, she changed terribly!"

"Mom, you have carried that guilt. It's time to let that go. Sami
could have forgiven you, but she chose not to."

"Have you Eric?"

"Mom, I have had time to deal with it."

"But have you forgiven me?"

Eric looked at his mother, and could see that she was in so much pain.

"Mom, yes, I have forgiven you, and I have forgiven John."

Marlena felt the tears running down her face. He went over to her and put
his arms around her.

"Mom, I love you, and what was done in the past, is in the past, and
that's where it will stay."

"Eric, I'm so glad you are home. I have missed you."

John stood in the doorway, listening and watching the woman he loved and
the young man he called son once, embrace. He wiped away a tear also, and
then went inside. Laura walked over to him and touched his arm and left.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to interupt."

"Oh no John, your not, your not," said Marlena.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~*~*~*~*

Stefano called Kristen.

"You missed a wonderful moment, between Marlena and Eric."

"I don't care. I am getting tired of waiting."

"Why don't you come over and see me for awhile. We can have dinner."

"Anything is better than being here, alone, watching John and Marlena.
I'm on my way."

Stefano hung up the phone and laughed.

"Yes Kristen, come to me, as you are starting my plan off," then
Stefano laughed again.

~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The phone rang, and John went over and answered it.

"John Black speaking."

"John, it's Abe. I just got a tip that Kristen is meeting with Stefano
tonight! Has she left the house?"

"Not that I know, wait, I hear someone coming downstairs. One second
Abe, Eric, go see if it's Kristen."

Eric walked into the foyer, as Kristen reached the bottom step.

"Hello Eric."

"Kristen, off somewhere?"

"Just going out to get away from all you Brady's," picked up her purse
and went out the door. Eric went back inside and nodded his head.

"She just left, and I'm right behind her.I'll have my cell phone, so I
can tell you excatly where she is goig."

'Okay, be careful."

John hung up the phone and looked at Marlena.

"I have to go, I'll see you both later," and ran out of the house......

To be continued.....

Chapter 23

"Well, hello Marlena. It's so good to see you." "I can't say I feel the same way Stefano," said Marlena.
"John, how did you find him?" asked Laura. "We got a tip, and Kristen lead us right to him." Marlena took
John's arm and moved him away from everyone. "Don't you think it was just a little to easy, that you
captured Stefano?" "Doc, I don't care how we got him, all that matters, is that we have him." "Why did
you bring him here." "To let you know we have the bastard, and to let Roman see that his worse enemy has
been caught." "Do you believe that is Roman, John?" "I believe that man might be Roman, and if it is,
seeing Stefano shackled might be the best medicine." Abe had joined the guard that was standing by
Stefano. "John, we have to get Stefano to his special cell, before something happens." "Sure Abe, let's
take him in to see Roman." Abe motioned Stefano towards Roman's room, and they all went in.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~*~*~* Roman watched as Stefano was lead into the room. He smiled, seeing the
site of his arch ememy in shackles. "Well, well, well, the great Stefano DiMera, in shackles. I thought I
would never live long enough to see this wonderful sight." "Roman, I hear that your not well, I am
saddened by that, after all, we had some wonderful games that we shared together." "Everything is a
game to you, old man." "Well Roman, not everything. And here you are home, with your children, your
family and of course, your beautiful Marlena." Marlena looked nervously at John, afraid that Stefano
would let something slip. "It's time to leave Stefano." "No, wait John. I have something to say to him,"
said Roman. "Stefano, yes, I am glad that I am home, with my children, my family, and seeing Doc again.
Thanks to your unselfish daughter, who has a heart and a soul, made me realize I had to come home to
everyone, but mostly letting me know, that Marlena was alone, telling me how she was hoping that if I was
alive, we could try again, to be together. That's why I came home." "Oh, well, I am happy for you Roman,
and of course for the lovely Marlena. But does she want to be a widow again? She has been before."
"That was because of you, you ruined our lives, mine, John, Doc...and you love it." "Roman, it was all part
of the game." Eric walked into the room, and saw Stefano standing there. "What the hell...I should kill
you," as Eric ran towards Stefano. John grabbed him. "Hey Eric, no, don't do this!" "Oh, another Brady,
and just as hot headed as the others." "I think it's time we get him out of here," said Abe. "Oh no, I want
to talk to Roman some more." Marlena felt the room start to spin, the fear of Stefano saying something,
Eric coming in, wanting to hit Stefano, Roman's confession, it was all to much for her. Marlena fell to the
floor. "Mom, John, it's Mom, she's fainted!" Stefano stood their smiling, as John rushed over to Marlena.
Roman sat up to see if Marlena was alright. "Doc! Is she alright John?" Laura went over to Roman. "You
have to rest, John will take care of Marlena." "Yes, okay, but is she okay? Eric, your mother?" "Dad,
she's still out." The nurse came over with some smelling salts. "Here Mr. Black." "Thanks Terry." John put
them under Marlena's nose. "Doc, it's me John, come on now," he whispered. Marlena coughed and opened
her eyes. "What happened?" "You fainted! Can you get up?" "Yes, I'm okay." Abe grabbed a hold of
Stefano. "Okay old man, your out of here, come on!" Roman looked at Stefano, as he smiled back at
Roman. ~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Mike and Carrie were walking along the pier. "I really needed
this Mike, thanks. Can you believe Sami, asking me that?" "Carrie, as far as we know, she has no memory
of you and Austin being in love." "Yeah, but wouldn't this be perfect, sticking another knife into me, if
she does have her memory back, just to see how I would react to her question!" "Has Austin said anything
to you about this wedding?" "No, so I don't think they have come to a decision." "Do you want to go see
your Dad?" "Yes, then I better get back home." "Your not doing anymore calling tonight? Get some sleep,
or I'm going to have to take you to a hospital." "Okay, I promise. Let's go see my Dad." Mike took Carrie's
hand, and she turned and smiled at him. "Mike Horton, I really appricate all you are doing." "Hey Carrie,
the Brady's and Horton's go way back. We are always there for each other." "Yes, that's true." Mike
stopped and faced Carrie. "Can I tell you something?" "Sure, what is it?" "You are so beautiful." "Mike,
you are embarssing me." "I'm sorry, but I think you need to know that you are special, and really cared
about." Mike looked at Carrie, the moonlight shining off the two of them. Mike moved his face down close
to Carrie's, smelling her sweet scent, and gently put his lips close to her's, then moved away. "I'm sorry
Carrie. I shouldn't be doing that, your not going to jump into something right away." "Mike, it's okay. Come
on," and she took his hand. *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~*~*~**~**~ Marlena was sitting in the chair, Eric
standing behind her. Marlena took another sip of water and set the glass down. "Are you alright Doc?"
asked Roman. "Yes, I'm fine. If you don't mind Roman, I'm going back to my room, to lay down."
"Marlena, can I ask you something?" "Sure, what is it." "Your not pregnant, are you?" Marlena looked at
Roman, shocked by what she just heard. "No! Roman, don't be silly." "Eric, can you leave us and you too
Terry," said Roman. "Okay." Marlena looked at Eric, with panic in her eyes. "Okay Doc,we are alone. I
think it is time that you tell me the truth. What is going on in this house, and with you? Does it involve
John?" "Roman, this is not the best time to talk. You need your rest." "Marlena, you are avoiding the
question." "No, I just don't think this is a good time to be talking about this." Roman's tone of voice
suddenly changed, which gave Marlena a chill. "Maybe because, you and John are doing the same thing
you did when we were married, but this time, it's Kristen who will be hurt by it!" Marlena stook there,
looking at Roman, she couldn't believe he had said that. "But, you and John had no consideration for
other people's feelings, you just had to be with each other, and then he got you pregnant." John stood
outside the door, listening to what Roman had just said. "Roman, why are you saying these things?" Roman
gave Marlena a cold, glassy stare, and then closed his eyes. She stood there, trembling, and then jumped
when John put his hand on her waist. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to startle you." Marlena turned and John
saw the tears falling from her pained eyes. "Roman, he...." "I know, I heard." "I thought he forgave us.
Why would he say those terrible things?" "Doc?" Marlena turned and saw that Roman was awake. She
stood there, wiping the tears away. "Doc, what's wrong? What happened to Stefano?" "Roman, Abe took
him out of here, you remember?" "No, I must have fallen asleep. I remember talking to him, but not seeing
him leave." Marlena turned and looked at John. "Doc, is something wrong?" "No Roman, no, no. Why don't
you get some rest, I'll be back later." "Okay." John started to leave, and Marlena followed as the nurse
came in. "I'm not feeling that well, tell Roman I will see him in the morning." "Sure Dr Evans." Marlena
went out into the hall, where John was waiting. "What the hell went on in there Doc, he doesn't remember
saying anything to you?" "I don't know, he was really cruel, and your right, he has no memory of the
conversation." "Look Doc, I have to go to the police station." "No, please! I need you! Don't leave me, not
now!" "Okay Marlena, I'll stay, let's go downstairs." "No! I want you to come with me." "Where Marlena?"
"To my room......"

To be continued....

Chapter 23

"Well, hello Marlena. It's so good to see you."

"I can't say I feel the same way Stefano," said Marlena.

"John, how did you find him?" asked Laura.

"We got a tip, and Kristen lead us right to him."

Marlena took John's arm and moved him away from everyone.

"Don't you think it was just a little to easy, that you captured
Stefano?"

"Doc, I don't care how we got him, all that matters, is that we have
him."

"Why did you bring him here."

"To let you know we have the bastard, and to let Roman see that his
worse enemy has been caught."

"Do you believe that is Roman, John?"

"I believe that man might be Roman, and if it is, seeing Stefano
shackled might be the best medicine."

Abe had joined the guard that was standing by Stefano.

"John, we have to get Stefano to his special cell, before something
happens."

"Sure Abe, let's take him in to see Roman."

Abe motioned Stefano towards Roman's room, and they all went in.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~*~*~*

Roman watched as Stefano was lead into the room. He smiled, seeing the
site of his arch ememy in shackles.

"Well, well, well, the great Stefano DiMera, in shackles. I thought I
would never live long enough to see this wonderful sight."

"Roman, I hear that your not well, I am saddened by that, after all, we
had some wonderful games that we shared together."

"Everything is a game to you, old man."

"Well Roman, not everything. And here you are home, with your children,
your family and of course, your beautiful Marlena."

Marlena looked nervously at John, afraid that Stefano would let something
slip.

"It's time to leave Stefano."

"No, wait John. I have something to say to him," said Roman.

"Stefano, yes, I am glad that I am home, with my children, my family,
and seeing Doc again. Thanks to your unselfish daughter, who has a heart
and a soul, made me realize I had to come home to everyone, but mostly
letting me know, that Marlena was alone, telling me how she was hoping
that if I was alive, we could try again, to be together. That's why I
came home."

"Oh, well, I am happy for you Roman, and of course for the lovely
Marlena. But does she want to be a widow again? She has been before."

"That was because of you, you ruined our lives, mine, John, Doc...and
you love it."

"Roman, it was all part of the game."

Eric walked into the room, and saw Stefano standing there.

"What the hell...I should kill you," as Eric ran towards Stefano.

John grabbed him.

"Hey Eric, no, don't do this!"

"Oh, another Brady, and just as hot headed as the others."

"I think it's time we get him out of here," said Abe.

"Oh no, I want to talk to Roman some more."

Marlena felt the room start to spin, the fear of Stefano saying
something, Eric coming in, wanting to hit Stefano, Roman's confession, it
was all to much for her. Marlena fell to the floor.

"Mom, John, it's Mom, she's fainted!"

Stefano stood their smiling, as John rushed over to Marlena. Roman sat up
to see if Marlena was alright.

"Doc! Is she alright John?"

Laura went over to Roman.

"You have to rest, John will take care of Marlena."

"Yes, okay, but is she okay? Eric, your mother?"

"Dad, she's still out."

The nurse came over with some smelling salts.

"Here Mr. Black."

"Thanks Terry."

John put them under Marlena's nose.

"Doc, it's me John, come on now," he whispered.

Marlena coughed and opened her eyes.

"What happened?"

"You fainted! Can you get up?"

"Yes, I'm okay."

Abe grabbed a hold of Stefano.

"Okay old man, your out of here, come on!"

Roman looked at Stefano, as he smiled back at Roman.

~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Mike and Carrie were walking along the pier.

"I really needed this Mike, thanks. Can you believe Sami, asking me
that?"

"Carrie, as far as we know, she has no memory of you and Austin being
in love."

"Yeah, but wouldn't this be perfect, sticking another knife into me, if
she does have her memory back, just to see how I would react to her
question!"

"Has Austin said anything to you about this wedding?"

"No, so I don't think they have come to a decision."

"Do you want to go see your Dad?"

"Yes, then I better get back home."

"Your not doing anymore calling tonight? Get some sleep, or I'm going
to have to take you to a hospital."

"Okay, I promise. Let's go see my Dad."

Mike took Carrie's hand, and she turned and smiled at him.

"Mike Horton, I really appricate all you are doing."

"Hey Carrie, the Brady's and Horton's go way back. We are always there
for each other."

"Yes, that's true."

Mike stopped and faced Carrie.

"Can I tell you something?"

"Sure, what is it?"

"You are so beautiful."

"Mike, you are embarssing me."

"I'm sorry, but I think you need to know that you are special, and
really cared about."

Mike looked at Carrie, the moonlight shining off the two of them. Mike
moved his face down close to Carrie's, smelling her sweet scent, and
gently put his lips close to her's, then moved away.

"I'm sorry Carrie. I shouldn't be doing that, your not going to jump
into something right away."

"Mike, it's okay. Come on," and she took his hand.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~*~*~**~**~

Marlena was sitting in the chair, Eric standing behind her. Marlena took
another sip of water and set the glass down.

"Are you alright Doc?" asked Roman.

"Yes, I'm fine. If you don't mind Roman, I'm going back to my room, to
lay down."

"Marlena, can I ask you something?"

"Sure, what is it."

"Your not pregnant, are you?"

Marlena looked at Roman, shocked by what she just heard.

"No! Roman, don't be silly."

"Eric, can you leave us and you too Terry," said Roman.

"Okay."

Marlena looked at Eric, with panic in her eyes.

"Okay Doc,we are alone. I think it is time that you tell me the truth.
What is going on in this house, and with you? Does it involve John?"

"Roman, this is not the best time to talk. You need your rest."

"Marlena, you are avoiding the question."

"No, I just don't think this is a good time to be talking about this."

Roman's tone of voice suddenly changed, which gave Marlena a chill.

"Maybe because, you and John are doing the same thing you did when we
were married, but this time, it's Kristen who will be hurt by it!"

Marlena stook there, looking at Roman, she couldn't believe he had said
that.

"But, you and John had no consideration for other people's feelings,
you just had to be with each other, and then he got you pregnant."

John stood outside the door, listening to what Roman had just said.

"Roman, why are you saying these things?"

Roman gave Marlena a cold, glassy stare, and then closed his eyes. She
stood there, trembling, and then jumped when John put his hand on her
waist.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to startle you."

Marlena turned and John saw the tears falling from her pained eyes.

"Roman, he...."

"I know, I heard."

"I thought he forgave us. Why would he say those terrible things?"

"Doc?"

Marlena turned and saw that Roman was awake. She stood there, wiping the
tears away.

"Doc, what's wrong? What happened to Stefano?"

"Roman, Abe took him out of here, you remember?"

"No, I must have fallen asleep. I remember talking to him, but not
seeing him leave."

Marlena turned and looked at John.

"Doc, is something wrong?"

"No Roman, no, no. Why don't you get some rest, I'll be back later."

"Okay."

John started to leave, and Marlena followed as the nurse came in.

"I'm not feeling that well, tell Roman I will see him in the morning."

"Sure Dr Evans."

Marlena went out into the hall, where John was waiting.

"What the hell went on in there Doc, he doesn't remember saying
anything to you?"

"I don't know, he was really cruel, and your right, he has no memory of
the conversation."

"Look Doc, I have to go to the police station."

"No, please! I need you! Don't leave me, not now!"

"Okay Marlena, I'll stay, let's go downstairs."

"No! I want you to come with me."
"Where Marlena?"
"To my room......"

To be continued.....

Chapter 24

Stefano was in his cell, when he heard the door being opened. He looked, expecting to
see John, but instead, it was Kristen. He got up and went to the glass.

"Stefano, I didn't know, I'm sorry. I guess we have lost the battle."

"Oh Kristen, you would give up that easy?"

"Well Stefano, you in there, aren't you?"

"Yes, but not for long. Any word from Sami?"

"No, not yet."

"Get going on that. Go, I have a lot of planning. But, I must see John tonight!"

"Oh, I'm sure you will!"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Doc, what are you saying?"

Marlena took John's hand and went towards her room. She opened the door and pulled him
inside. She closed the door, and leaned against it.

"What's come over you?"

"I need you, that's what has come over me. I hate being apart from you!"

Marlena walked over to him and put her mouth, hungryly on his. She moved her hands on
the buttons of his shirt, trying to undo them.

"Easy Doc, easy."

Marlena ripped open the shirt, buttons flying everywhere. She started to kiss his chest,
as John moaned softly.

"Doc, what is going on?"

She stopped and looked at him.

"I'm tired of pretending. I want to be with you."

She moved John closer to the bed, removing his shirt, then pushing him down on the bed.
She got on top of him, and started to kiss him again, hard on the mouth. John put his
hands on Marlena's back, and rolled her over, so she was laying on the bed. He looked
down at her.

"I know where this is coming from. Your hurt by what Roman said to you, this...what
your doing right now, it's not you!"

John could see the tears falling down Marlena's face, he wiped them away.

"Doc, you don't have to feel that way. We are not hurting anyone! I'm free, and so
are you."

John, slowly, leaned down and kissed Marlena's eyes.

"We are going to be happy, we have been through so much, in fact, all of our lives
have, and now, this is our time to be happy, and it will, my beautiful lady, it will
be."

John kissed Marlena's nose.

"I love you," then kissed her lips, gently, not hurrying her the way she was with him.

"I will always be here with you, and nothing is going to come between us, I promise!"

"No! Don't promise me anything, you might have to break that promise."

"I will never break my promise to you Doc."

John slowly undid the buttons on Marlena's blouse.

"We have to keep our faith now, more than ever!"

John leaned down and kissed Marlena's shoulder.

"Things shouldn't be rushed," as he kissed her other one, then went up to her neck.

He felt Marlena arch her back and then John removed her blouse, slowly moving his hands
down her side. He felt her hand on his back, her fingernails digging into his back. He
heard her shoes falling to the ground. He looked down at her, seeing pain, fear, hurt,
all of this in those beautiful eyes.

"My lady Marlena, I will take away all those upsetting feelings, and the only one that
will remain, is "Love."

"John?"

"Yes Marlena, I am going to show you how much I love you, let you know that there is
nothing wrong in what we are doing."

John leaned down and started to kiss her, undressing each other, needing each other, and
this moment would only be their's, no outside world intruding into their little world,
in this room. John lifted Marlena up, and looked at her.

"Doc, we will be married. We will be a family, we will...."

But John couldn't finish because Marlena had put her mouth on his.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~*~*~*

Carrie and Mike got to the front door, just as Kristen came home.

"Hello, come to see your Dad?"

"Yes, could you let us in?"

"Don't you think it's kinda late?"

"No,not really."

"Well, I do, so I think you should go home!"

"Are you telling me, your not going to let me in?"

"That's right. I think you Brady's should learn to come by at a decent hour."

Mike stepped forward.

"Well Kristen, you can't keep me out, I'm his doctor, so open let us come inside."

Kristen looked at Mike, then turned and opened the door. Carrie and Mike followed
Kristen inside. Carrie closed the door and saw Kristen going upstairs. Carrie turned and
looked at Mike.

"Can you believe that woman, she wasn't going to let me in."

"Well, as long as your with me, she will never keep us out. Let's go upstairs."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~*~*~*~*

Kristen was walking by Marlena's room, when she heard something. She stopped and got
closer to the door.

"Are they making love....no, they wouldn't do that here?"

She put her hand on the doorknob, and slowly turned it. She quietly opened the door,
just enough for her to look inside. When she did look, she was horrified to see John and
Marlena, on the bed, making love, her husband, her man! She slamed the door, and let a
scream out. Carrie and Mike stood in the hall, looking at her.

"What the hell are you doing?" asked Carrie.

Kristen turned and looked at the both of them.

"You know, while your father is in that room, down the hall, dying, Marlena is in this
room, making love to John."

The door opened and John stood there, in a bathrobe.

"What the hell is going on?"

"Well John, Kristen has picked up a new trade, she's a peeper now. She just finished
looking in your room."

"Have you totally lost it?"

"Me? What about you two. Roman's down the hall, and the two of you, are in here, in my
home, making love."

"Well, we wouldn't be doing anything in this house, if you hadn't lied Kristen!"

Marlena joined John at the door, looking at Kristen, the the guilty look came over her
face, seeing Carrie standing there.

"No Marlena! I know what you are thinking. Don't feel that way. John and you should be
together."

"Oh Carrie.."

"No Marlena!"

"Well, if everyone has finished being so understanding, except me, I have a message
for you John, from Stefano. He wants to see you."

Carrie looked at Kristen.

"No John, it's a trick."

"It's okay Carrie, we captured Stefano tonight. He's in a special cell, so you don't
have to worry."

"John, are you going?" asked Kristen.

"Yes, as soon as I get dressed."

"Fine!" and Kristen left.

"Can you believe that she looked into your room?" said Carrie.

"I wouldn't put anything past her," said John.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~*

Austin walked into the apartment, and saw Eric and Sami, sitting on the couch.

"Hi Eric."

"Austin, I thought I would keep Sami company till you got home."

"Thanks. How's Will?"

"He's fast asleep, but he did wake up while you were gone, he wanted his daddy."

"Sorry I wasn't here."

"Did you go see Kate?"

"Yeah, I had a long talk with her."

"How's Victor?"

"Doing better, she's going to see him tomorrow."

"Well, I leave you two alone. See you in the morning."

"Night Eric," said Austin.

"See you in the morning," said Sami.

Eric left the apartment.

"We have to phone Kristen and give her an answer."

"Yes, I know."

"You know how important this would be for my dad."

Sami waited for Austin to give her answer. If he said yes, she would have him for the
rest of her life, and Carrie would have lost. And even if Carrie decided she wanted him
back, there was no chance of that.

"Okay Sami, if it will make your Father happy."

"Oh Austin, I'm so happy."

"I'm glad Sami."

"I'll call Kristen to tell her."

"Okay, I'm going to check on Will."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

John walked in the station, and went to Abe's office. He knocked on the door.

"Yeah?"

John went into the office.

"Hi Partner, I was summoned."

"Stefano?"

"Yes, can I see him?"

"Yeah, come on."

John and Abe left and went to the special holding cell that was made for Stefano. They
walked inside, and Stefano had his back to them. John stood there with Abe, both quiet,
looking at Stefano.

"Hello John, I've been waiting for you......."

To be continued.....

Chapter 25

Marlena laid in her bed, wondering what was going on down at the police
station with John and Stefano. She rolled over, and looked at the empty
side of the bed.

"Oh John, what does that madman want from you?"

There was a knock on the door.

"Yes, who is it?"

"Marlena, it's Mike. Can I come in?"

"Just a minute Mike."

Marlena got out of bed and put her robe on.

"Okay, come on in."

Mike opened the door and popped his head inside.

"Oh sorry Marlena, you were in bed."

"That's okay, I couldn't sleep. What's on your mind?"

"I'm worried about Carrie. She's trying so hard to be brave, but I know
she's falling apart inside."

"After breaking up with Austin, I guess you are refering to that?"

"Yes, something happened tonight. We were leaving the apartment, and
Sami came over, and asked Carrie to her maid of honor, when she renews
her vows to Austin."

"But Austin hasn't agreed to anything yet!"

"No, but she's expecting him to say yes."

"Mike, I'm so glad that you have been there for Carrie."

"I wouldn't be anywhere else Marlena. Carrie has become very special to
me."

"I know Mike, you in love with her."

"She told you, didn't she?"

"Yes, she needed to talk to someone."

"I didn't want to make things complicated for her."

"I don't think you did Mike. You have given her that special attention
that she is missing from Austin."

Mike walked over and stood in front of Marlena.

"I promise, I will help her with this, trying to help her cope with the
pain, and who knows, maybe one day she might turn to me, other than a
freind."

Marlena put her arms around Mike.

"Thank you for everything you have done for this family. You are truly
a special friend."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~*

"Hello," said Kristen.

"Hi Kristen, it's Sami. Austin and I have talked it over, and we would
love to take you up on the offer, for the wedding."

Kristen smiled, knowing that Stefano would be pleased about this.

"That's wonderful Sami. You Dad will be pleased. Come by tomorrow, we
will go over the wedding plans."

"Thanks Kristen, thank you so much."

"Oh Sami, are you going to tell your mother?"

"Oh, I should."

"I can call her for you?"

"No, that's okay. I'll call her on her cell phone."

"Okay, see you tomorrow."

Kristen hung up the phone.

"Oh Marlena, you are going to be just thrilled when you hear this
news," and Kristen started to laugh.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~*~*~*~

Abe looked at John, and then left the room.

"Well John, I am so glad that you came to see me."

"I was coming over, but I thought I would let you get comfortable in
your new home."

Stefano looked around at his surrondings.

"Well, it's not like my many homes, but I see you have allowed me to
have some of my favorite things. My chess board, and my music."

"We didn't want you to get bored."

"But John, it's a shame you went ot all of this trouble."

John moved closer to the glass, staring at Stefano.

"You won't get out of there. It was specially made for you."

"Oh John, you think I don't know about this. I hve eyes everywhere."

John looked at Stefano puzzled.

"Haven't you figured it out yet John? I knew you were coming, and I let
you capture me. But, I have my way out of here."

"Oh, and how is that?"

"I have a cure for Roman."

"What did you say?"

"I have a cure, but the only way you get it, is to let me out of here!"

"Your lying!"

"Am I? Would you take that chance, letting Roman die? John, wouldn't a
little piece of you die along with him?"

John hung his head down, and then banged on the glass with his fists.

"You think I would fall for that trick? No, I won't!"

John turned to leave, and Stefano started to yell to him.

"TAKE YOUR TIME JOHN, BUT ROMAN DOESN'T HAVE MUCH OF THAT! AND WHAT
WOULD IT DO TO YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH MARLENA?"

John stopped, turned and looked at him.

"Would she forgive you if she knew that you knew of a cure, and you did
nothing ot save Roman?"

"Doc would know that if you say there's a cure, your lying."

"But, maybe I'm not?"

"I'm leaving," and John left the room.

Stefano turned and went over to the chest board, and looked down.

"Ah John, you will be back, you will be back!"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Marlena was sitting in bed, trying to read, but she couldn't concentrate
on the file in front of her. The she heard her cell phone ringing.She got
up and went to her purse. She took it out and answered it.

"Mom, oh mom. I have great news!"

"Sami, what's going on?"

"Austin and I are going to renew our vows, isn't that great?"

Marlena almost dropped the phone.

"Mom, did you hear me?"

"Yes, I did. When are you planning this day?"

"As soon as possible. I'm coming over tomorrow to talk to Kristen. I'm
so excited mom!Wait till Daddy hears. I just wanted to let you know.
Night Mom," and Sami hung up.

Marlena sat their, holding her phone in shock.

"Oh Carrie, wait till she hears this."

Marlena got up and left her room. She walked towards Roman's room. She
looked in, but Carrie wasn't there. She went towards the stairs, and went
down them. She got into the foyer, and walked into the living room.
Carrie was sitting on the couch, in Mike's arms, crying. She saw Kristen
standing by the fireplace, smiling.

"What's going on?"

"Kristen took it upon herself to give us the news of Sami and Austin's
wedding," said Mike.

Marlena went over to Kristen, and grabbed her by the arm.

"How can you be so cruel?"

"What! I just wanted Carrie to know what was going on."

"Mike, can youtake Carrie home, please?"

"Sure Marlena."

Mike put a protective arm around Carrie, and Marlena went over to the two
of them.

"Are you okay?"

Between sobs, Carrie answered.

"No...I....can't.....talk."

"Go home sweetheart."

"Don't worry Marlena, I won't leave her, not tonight."

"Oh, the good Dr Horton."

"Kristen, haven't you done enough. Leave them alone!"

Mike and Carrie left, and Marlena turned and looked at her.

"I can't believe you did this?"

"What! Sami and Austin are doing something Roman really wants to see,
one of his daughter's marry."

"But your the one who set it all in motion. You are so evil. I don't
know how long I can handle living in this house."

"Oh Marlena, if you leave, then John can't be with you, can he?"

"No, but he wouldn't stay here either."

"How do you know he would leave?" asked Kristen.

"What the hell is going on in here?"

Marlena turned to see John standing in the doorway.

"Kristen, what have you done now?"

"Nothing, and if you two will excuse me, I am retiring. I have a busy
day tomorrow."

Kristen walked by the both of them, and John went over to Marlena.

"So, fill me in. What has been going on here?"

"Austin has agreed to the wedding, and Kristen took it upon herself to
tell Carrie. Mike took her home, she was so upset. What am I going to do
John? I know Carrie gave Austin his freedon, but I know that in time, she
would be with him. Now, that will never happen."

"Does Roman know?"

"No, Sami's telling him tomorrow. I can't tell Sami that she can't do
this, she has no memory of the fact that Austin doesn't love her."

John put his arms around Marlena.

"I know you are worried about the children, but this matter is out of
your hands."

"I know, but I hate to see Carrie in so much pain. Tell me what Stefano
wanted?"

"Doc, it's late, why don't we go to bed, and talk about it in the
morning? Your sleeping in my room tonight."

"John, should we be together?"

"Doc, I'm to tired, I just want to hold you, like the other night."

He took her hand, and they went upstairs.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~

Mike opened the apartment door with Carrie's keys, and switched on the
light. Carrie stood in the hall, looking at Austin's apartment. When Mike
came out to get her, she was moving towards the door.

"Oh no, not tonight! Come on, let's get you inside."

He put his arm around her, and brought her into the apartment.

"Carrie, look at me!"

Mike looked at the blank look on Carrie's face. He moved her to the
couch, and sat her down. He went into her bedroom, and grabbed the
blanket off the bed. He came out and put around her.

"I think you could use something strong to drink."

Mike got up and started to look around in the cupboard, and found some
brandy. He took it out and grabbed a couple of glasses. He sat by Carrie,
and poured some into the glass.

"Carrie, talk to me, your scaring me!"

Still no answer from Carrie, Mike brought the glass up to her lips.

"Drink this Carrie."

He saw her swallowing the liquid. He put the glass down, and put his arms
around her. He felt her body start to shake. He knew she was crying.

"It's okay Carrie, I'm staying here with you."

Mike picked her up, and took Carrie to her room. He placed her on the bed
and then sat on the chair by the side of the bed. She looked at him, her
eyes red and puffy.

"Mike, can you hold me please!"

"Carrie, I think that maybe....I'll just sit here."

"No! Please!"

Mike took off his shoes and got on the bed. He put his arms around
Carrie, and she snuggled against him.

"Thanks for being here with me Mike."

Mike thought to himself;

"Carrie, I love you. I will always be here for you......."