two

Chapter 6

John watched as Marlena finished her meal, and he picked up his glass, and took a drink.
He placed it down on the table and then looked over at her again, smiling.

"Doc, I am so glad we had this time."

"So am I, we need this."

"What we really need, is to get on that bed, and make love. That's what we both
want."

"I know, but we shouldn't. Besides, don't you have a surprise for me?"

"Oh yes, the surprise, well, I am still working on that. Why don't we take a
walk before you go and see Roman?"

"Yes, I would like that."

"Come on, pretty lady."

John got up and took Marlena's hand. They opened the door, and Kristen was
standing there.

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

"What? I was walking by."

"More like standing outside the door," said Marlena.

"Oh please Marlena, I think not. I was going to my room, excuse me!"

John and Marlena watched as Kristen went down the hall.

"When is she ever going to give up?" said Marlena.

"I don't even want to talk about her, okay. Let's take that walk."

John took Marlena's hand, and they walked down the hall. Eric was standing outside
his Dad's room, watching his mother and John go. Laura came out, and saw what Eric
was looking at.

"Eric, how do you feel about your mother and John?"

"I want Mom to be happy, but if that man is Roman Brady, my Father, where does
he fit in Mom's life?"

"Eric, your mother cares for your Father, but she loves John, you understand
that, don't you?"

"Yes, I know Laura, and I will support any decision's she makes."

"And she needs all of your support. Come on, why don't we get some dinner.
The nurse is here."

"Okay, Dad's sleeping anyways."

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

John had his arm around Marlena, and was holding her close to him.

"Oh John, I do love being here with you, even if it has to be at this horrible
place. We have to find...."

"No Doc, if we move Roman, then I can't spend anytime with you. We have to stick
it out as best as we can."

Marlena stopped and looked at John.

"I hate that we have to hide our feelings, once again."

"Doc, the only person we are hiding it from, is Roman. Everyone else knows,
we don't have to hide it from them."

"But I feel so terrible. I get this feeling from Caroline, that I should be
devoting all my time with Roman, and not be with you."

John brought Marlena close to him.

"Doc, it's her son, he's ill, and you were once married to him."

"Yes, but we aren't anymore."

Marlena shook her head.

"Our lives, it's like we are in this mixer, being scrambled constantly."

John put his hands up to Marlena's face, and rubbed it gently.

"That's why, when we have these moments, we should be just focusing on us, no
one else."

John looked deep into Marlena's eyes, and then kissed her gently, then with such
passion, the passion that he had been holding back.

"Oh Doc, I love you so much. And tomorrow, oh tomorrow..." he thought.

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

Sami came up the walkway with Austin.

"I wish we had brought Will."

"Sami, we don't want to take any chances, with the little temperture he has."

"Yes, I guess you are right."

Sami rang the bell and the door opened.

"Hi Laura."

"Come in, you two. Here to see your Dad?"

"Yes, how is he?"

"Well, he had a good dinner. He's sleeping right now. But he'll be glad to see
you when he wakes. Come in the living room, and join us."

"Us?" said Sami.

"Yeah Sami," said Eric.

Sami looked in shock, seeing her twin standing in front of her.

"Sami, aren't you going to say hello," said Eric.

"Oh Eric, of course. I'm just so surprised."

She went over and hugged him.

"When did you get back?"

"Late this morning."

"Have you seen Mom?"

"I saw her first."

"So, you know that Daddy is alive, and Mom didn't marry John."

"Sami, do I detect some happiness in your voice?"

Sami knew the mistake she had made as she was saying it.

"No Eric, I was really glad that Mom found happiness, and with John."

"Hmmm, well it didn't sound like it to me."

"Your reading something that's not there. Eric, come on! Oh, I want to introduce
you to my husband, Austin."

"Hey man, have heard a lot about you from both of my sister's."

"Carrie has been talking about Austin?"

"Well sure Sami, she works with Austin."

"Oh yeah."

"Hi Eric, nice to finally meet you. Kristen isn't home tonight, is she?" asked
Austin.

"No, she went out,thank goodness."

"I need to talk to her."

"Where's Mom?" asked Sami.

"Taking a walk with John," said Laura.

"Have you seen Carrie yet?"

"No, the nurse said she left with Mike."

Austin rolled his eyes, and walked across the room, to pour himself a drink.

"Do you think she'll be back tonight?" asked Sami.

"Don't know," said Eric. "I hope so, I would love to see her."

"I'm going upstairs, and see if Daddy's awake."

"I'll join you Sami," said Eric.

The two of them left, and Laura looked at Austin.

"Look Laura, I know how you feel about me."

"No Austin, I think that your a very nice person, but I think my son is the
better man for Carrie."

"Can you tell Sami, that I'll be back later to get her."

Austin left the room and the house.

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

Kristen was pacing the floor, watching Stefano play his chess game.

"How can you sit there, and be so calm. Oh, of course, all you ever do, is
just take Marlena."

"Kristen, will you stop. I have everything under control."

"What do you mean by that? We don't have a lot of time, since we know that
Roman is dying."

"No Kristen, he's not!"

"What!"

"That's all I am saying to you."

"Stefano, you have to let me know what you have planned."

"No, you have messed up a lot of things, that should have been so easy, for you to
take hold of the situation. No, I am not letting you get in the way of this plan,
but you will have a part in it, for me to get what I want. And of course, what you
want!"

"As long as I have John at the end of this, then I will be happy."

"Kristen, you just keep trying to get John to listen to your reasoning, and try
to break that wall down, and I will be the one to do all the rest."

"Okay Stefano, I won't ask anymore questions, I trust whatever you have
planned......."

To be continued

Chapter 7

Mike pulled away from Carrie, and got up. He walked down to the edge of the
water. Carrie sat on the blanket, looking at Mike, standing by the lake. She
put her hand up to her lips. What had happened here? That kiss wasn't a friend
between friend kiss, it was different. Carrie got up, and went down to where
Mike was.

"Mike, we need to talk."

"Look Carrie, if your expecting me to say I'm sorry... well I just can't.
Something happened along the way, and that is..."

"Please Mike, don't say what you are going to say. I don't want you to be hurt."

"Carrie, the only thing that hurts, is that you love someone else. I have to
let you know, well, that I have....I have fallen in love with you. There, I
said it, I'm sorry, but I had to tell you. And I know that you want to be with
Austin, and I respect that, but I'll tell you something, if that fool doesn't
finally wise up, then Carrie Brady, this fool is going to step into your life
and show you that, I am the guy you have always been looking for."

Mike was looking at Carrie, and saw the tears running down her face. He put
his hand up to her cheek, and wiped them away. Then he put his arms around
her, and held her close, like this was the last time, that they would be this
way.

"Mike, I think we should head back. I can't talk about this right now, I can't..
I can't believe it."

"Okay Carrie, I want you to know that I will be their for you whenever you
need me, whenever you need me."

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

Marlena and John came back into the house, and found Laura sitting on the couch.

"Hello you two."

"Where's Eric?" asked Marlena.

"Upstairs, with Sami. It's time for me to leave, but if you ever want me to
come over and sit with Roman, so you can have some time together, just let me
know."

"Thanks Laura, your such a good friend."

Marlena looked at the clock.

"Is that the time, it's getting late. I guess Carrie isn't coming back tonight."

"I'm sure she will be back tomorrow, Doc."

"Yes, I'm sure she will. I'll walk Laura out, John."

"Okay, good night Laura."

"Good night John."

John watched Marlena and Laura leave the room. The phone started to ring. John went
over and answered it.

"Hello."

"John, it's me....."

"Hello, is that you Shane, the connection is bad."

"Yes, your calling about....."

"What was that Shane?"

"Roman!"

"Yes, we have a situation here. Kristen brought back a man, who she claims to
be Roman. You confirmed the man we buried was Roman....Shane, did you hear me?"

"Yes.....Roman......not.......but.......I'm sorry......" then the line went
dead.

"Shane, are you there, Shane?"

John hung up the phone, and tried to peace the conversation together. Could he have
been telling me, that he was alive, or that he was dead. John picked up the phone
and tried to get a hold of Shane, but was having no luck. Marlena came into the
room.

"Was that the phone?"

"Yeah, it was Shane, but the connection was bad. I don't know if he was
telling me that Roman was alive or dead. I'm trying to get a hold of him, but
I can't reach him."

"Try tomorrow, I'm very tired. I'm going upstairs to check on Roman, and
say goodnight to the children."

"Why don't you ask Eric to stay here?"

"He won't. I'll give him Carrie's address. I'm sure he will want to see her."

"Doc, I'm going to spend the night with you, I can't sleep without you. I want
to hold you in my arms all night."

"John, should..."

"Yes! Roman's confined to the bed, and Kristen, who cares! Besides, if I know
her, she will try to slip into my bed, and I just don't want to face that whole
scene."

Marlena took John's hand.

"Fine, after we say goodnight, let's phone Susan, and see how the children
are."

"That's a good idea, come on."

The two of them went upstairs.

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

Sami & Eric stood at the bottom of the bed, looking at their Father.

"He looks so at peace, right now, doesn't he Eric," said Sami.

"Yes, but Sami, you shouldn't believe heart and soul, that he is our Father."

"Eric, how can you say that, of course he's our father."

"I will treat him, like he is, but I am waiting for all the information John
gets, before I believe."

Marlena & John came into the room.

"Hi you two, how's Daddy?"

"He's been sleeping mostly, but he was awake for a little while," said Eric.

"Mom, where's Austin?"

"Oh, he left. Laura said that he would be back to get you."

"Eric, you can stay here, if you like."

"Thanks John, but I don't think I could. I really want to see Carrie."

"Did I hear someone say my name? Oh my, Eric, your home."

Carrie ran towards her brother, and the two embraced.

"Hey Sis, it's great to see you."

Carrie moved away and looked at her brother.

"Boy, you have gotten taller, and handsome."

Eric saw Mike standing behind Marlena.

"Hey, is that you Mike?"

"Hi Eric, welcome home."

"Thanks."

"I'm going to check Roman, so if I could have a few minutes alone."

"Sure Mike, we'll be out in the hall," said Marlena.

They left the room.

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

"When did you get back?"

"This morning. I was wondering, could I crash at your place?"

"Sure, then we can talk."

Austin came down the hall, and Carrie looked at him with love and pain in her
eyes. Sami ran to him.

"Oh Austin, your back. I missed you so much. Where did you go?"

"I did a few errands, are you ready to go?"

"Hmm, yes, I am getting tired, and Will is probably missing us. I want to go home
so you can put your arms around me all night. Just let me say good-bye to my Dad."

"Sure."

Mike came out.

"You can go inside now."

"Sami, I'll wait here."

"Okay Austin."

Sami went inside Roman's room.

"Carrie, could I talk to you, for a minute."

"Sure."

Austin and Carrie moved down the hall, away from everyone.

"Kristen told Sami, that my mother wanted us to be together."

"What! How did you handle that?"

"I had to lie to her."

"Austin, it would have been the perfect time to tell her everything."

"No Carrie, not with your Dad being so sick."

"Austin, how long are we going to have....."

"Austin, I'm ready to go," said Sami.

Austin looked at Carrie and then walked towards Sami.

"Good night Mom, I'll be over tomorrow."

"Okay sweetie."

"Night Marlena, John," said Austin.

"See you Austin," said John. "Night Sami."

"Bye John."

Sami took Austin's hand, and they left and went towards the downstairs. Carrie watched
as they left, and went over to John and Marlena. John put his arms around Carrie.

"Are you alright?"

"No, I can't believe what Austin just told me."

"What?" said Marlena.

"Kristen told Sami, that Kate wanted Austin and me together."

"She did what?" said Marlena.

"Yep, and Austin told Sami, that she was lying."

"I'm sorry Carrie, this situation isn't getting any better," said Marlena.

"I know, I gotta get out of here."

Eric came out of the bedroom.

"You ready to go Eric?"

"Yeah, see you tomorrow Mom, John."

"Night sweetie, It's so good to have you home."

"It's good to be home Mom."

Marlena hugged Eric and then Carrie. Then she watched the two starting to leave, and
Carrie stopped. She said something to Eric and came back.

"Forgot to say good night to Dad and Mike."

She went into the bedroom.

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

Mike was writing something down when he saw Carrie come in. He watched as she went
over to the bed, spoke to Roman, then walked towards him.

"I just want to thank you, for the wonderful day, and Mike, I appreicate your
honesty, about your feelings for me."

"I'm sorry Carrie that I have made things more diffcult in your life, but I
had to let you know."

Carrie put her arms around Mike, then kissed him on the cheek.

"Night Mike," and Carrie left.

"Good night Carrie, I love you."

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

Marlena and John waited till after Carrie left with Eric, and went inside to see
Roman.

"Doc, I have missed you tonight."

"Well, I thought the children should have some time with you. I just came in to
say good night."

"You can't stay for awhile?"

"I'm really tired Roman, and you need your rest."

"Okay, I'll see you in the morning."

Marlena squeezed Roman's arm and moved away from the bed.

"Night Roman."

"John, good night."

Marlena and John nodded at Mike, as they left the room.

"Come on Doc, let's go call about the kids, and then let's go to bed."

Marlena took John's hand, and they went towards her bedroom. They stopped in the
hall just before they reached the room, and John put his hands up to her face,then
gently touching her lips, then back to her face, and slowly brought his face close
to her, and his lips rubbed her, ever so lightly, almost teasing her. Then he put
his lips on hers and started to kiss her slowly, when they both heard a noise.
Their lips moved away from each other to see who was in the hall, and then John
let a sigh out. It was Kristen and she came over to them.

"Where are you going John?"

"To bed, if it's any of your business."

"Your not sleeping with Marlena, you can't do that."

"Who say's we can't?" said Marlena.

"What about Roman?"

"He's asleep Kristen. Come on Marlena, let's go."

John and Marlena went down the hall and then entered Marlena's room, and closed the
door. Kristen started to jump up and down, angry that they were spending the night
together. She looked towards the camera.

"You better do something, and quick Stefano, look they are sleeping together, and
they don't even care that Roman is in the same house. I am fed up with this, you
better start moving on your plan, and fast!"

Kristen stormed down the hall, then stood outside Marlena's room. She looked at the
door and then her fist came down hard on the door. She then turned and stormed
down to her room, and slammed her door.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~
"That girl is going to be more trouble than help, she's going to ruin everything
if she keeps this up, and to think once she was such a true DiMera, and now, she
has lost it all."

Stefano looked at his guest, sitting across from him.

Well, my friend, you are on your way to your new home, I will be meeting up with
you there, and I will be bringing more guests then. It's to bad that you are so
heavily medicated, but it will make things much more eaiser."

And then Stefano let out a loud, chilling, laugh...........

Chapter 8

Marlena rolled over and felt the warmth of John's body. She opened her eyes, and saw his
sleeping body beside her. They had held each other all night, and they had come many
times, were they almost made love. But Marlena just didn't feel right about it. She ran
her fingers along the side of his face, and she saw the smile appear on his face.

"Morning Doc."

"Hi."

"That was the best night sleep I've had in days," he said. "And it's just
knowing that you were here beside me."

"I feel the same way."

"We should get up, and get our day started, and remember, make no plans for
the evening. I will have a great surprise for you."

"Tell me, I don't know if I can hold out the whole day."

"Nope, but you will love it."

John took Marlena in his arms, and held her, very close to him.

"I wonder how Carrie is today?"

"Why don't you call, and get together with her."

"Yes, she may need to talk. It looks like nothing is getting any better in
that relationship. I'm glad Eric is back, she needs him, and of course her
friendship with Mike."

"He seems to be a very important person in her life right now."

"Well, he has been a shoulder for her to lean on."

"You know she hasn't wanted to burden you with her problems, because of
what has been going on with us."

"I know, that's why I think we need to have a good chat. Well, we better
get out of bed, I have to take a shower."

"Can I join you?"

"John?"

"Okay," as he started to laugh, "I'll go back to my room. I'll see you
downstairs for breakfast."

"Are you going to try Shane again?"

"Yep, I think I'll do that now."

John got out of bed and put his pants on. He picked up the phone, and dialed
Shane's number. He waited, then started to talk to the other person at the
other end of the phone.

"Yes, I want to talk to Shane Donovan. John Black, from the U.S. We are good
friends, well family in a way."

John listened to the person on the other end, then he put his head down. He
lifted it and shook it.

"When? It's just that I spoke....Last night, it was a bad connection. Yes, I
understand. Have you called his ex-wife? Well, when are you...oh, I see, yes, of
course. Could you please keep me informed. I'll give you my number," and John told
the person his phone number.

"Thank you. No, I don't think you can help me. Thanks, bye."

John hung up the phone, and looked at Marlena. He could see the fear that was on
her face.

"What's wrong?" she asked.

"Doc, it's Shane."

"Oh no, he's not..."

"No, he's missing."

"What! But you talked to him last night."

"Yeah, I know, but they became alarmed when he didn't call in about something
he was working on. They checked his house, he wasn't there."

"Kim, does she know?"

"No, they want to investgate more, before they contact her. This seems very
bizzare."

"Could Shane know something, and that's why he's disappeared?" asked Marlena.

"Your thinking Stefano, aren't you?"

"Yes, it would make sense. I hope they find him unharmed."

"Look, I'll leave so you can get yourself showered and dressed, see you
downstairs."

"Hey, before you leave, I would love a kiss."

"Don't even have to ask for that."

John went over and started to kiss Marlena. She pulled him onto the bed, still
kissing him. He moved away from her.

"Doc, let's not start something we can't finish, besides, I have a lot of
plans to make for your surprise."

"Oh, my surprise. Okay, go, leave."

John got up and started to chuckle as he left the bedroom. He went into the hall
and started to go into his room, when he heard some footsteps. He looked up and
saw Kristen, dressed in a tight red dress.

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

"Morning John."

"Oh, please Kristen, it's just getting old."

He opened the door to find a table full of food, for two.

"I had cook bring it up for us. We haven't had any time to ourselves, since
our guests arrived. People coming and going all the time, so I thought we could
have a nice intimate breakfast for two."

John shook his head, and looked at Kristen.

"Would you please come in here."

"Oh John, I knew you would have a change of heart."

Kristen went inside John's room, and he closed the door. She wrapped her arms
around him.

"Oh baby, I have missed you, so much."

John peeled her arms off of him.

"I didn't invite you in here, because I have, all of a sudden, decided you are
the woman I wanted all along. I want you to listen Kristen, and don't forget
what I say to you. I am only here, because you lied to that man in there about
our living arrangements, us being married. I would be married, but to the woman
across the hall. And I want you to get in touch with your Father, and tell him
to return Shane safe. I know he has taken him. Shane was going to tell me something
last night, but the connection was bad, and then we got cut off. Or maybe, you
know where he is?"

"I don't know anything about Shane disappearing."

"Well, I can't believe anything you say, can I? You leave us, all alone, stay
out of our lives! And another thing, are you crazy, telling Sami that Kate
wants Austin and Carrie together. You could have done some serious damage."

"I think she has her memory back."

"How can you be so sure?"

"The way she is acting."

"Acting how? Just stay away from her. Now, do you mind. I would like to
shower, and dress. Oh, the breakfast, it will get eaten. Doc and I thank
you."

Kristen looked at John, turned and went towards the door. She opened it, turned
and looked at him, then left the room, slamming the door behind her. John started
to laugh.

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

Carrie walked out of her bedroom, and found Eric sitting on the couch.

"Hey, I made some coffee."

"Is it any good?"

"Well, I drink it all the time, so you tell me."

Carrie poured a cup, took a drink, then looked at her brother.

"You call this coffee, Eric, it's horrible."

Carrie smiled at Eric.

"Now, that's the sister I remember, with that smile on her face."

"I think you made this on purpose."

"Maybe I did, you will never know."

Carrie put the cup down, and went over and sat down beside him.

"I'm glad your here. We need to talk."

"About Sami, right?"

"Yes."

"Okay Carrie, fill me in."

Carrie started to tell Eric what had been going on, and he listened, shaking his
head at some of the things he was hearing. He watched as Carrie started to get
upset, and watched the tears run down her face. He got up and got the box
of kleenex, and handed it to her. It broke his heart, to see her like this.
When she finished, he put his arms around her.

"I'm sorry you had to go through this all. I should have been here. First, to
keep that twin of mine in line, and to be a brother for you. You needed me too!"

"Well, your home now, and I am so thankful for that."

The phone started to ring.

"Excuse me."

Carrie got up and answered it.

"Hi sweetie, how are you today?"

"Better, it helps having my brother here."

"I bet it does. I'm free this morning. I would love to come by, if you don't
mind?"

"Yes, I would love it."

"Okay, I'll be there in about an hour."

"Great, see you then."

"Say hi to Eric for me."

"I will, bye."

Carrie hung up the phone.

"Marlena's coming by later."

"Well, I'll give you and Mom some time alone. I'm going to take a shower and
then go over and see Dad."

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

Marlena came out of the bedroom, clipping on her earrings. John opened his door,
and grabbed her, pulling her into his room.

"What are you doing? What is this?"

"Thank Kristen, she thought we would have a cozy breakfast, just her and I,
and of course, I had to set her straight once again. So, do you want to eat with
me?"

"Oh yes, but I have to eat and run. I'm going over to see Carrie. And I have
to stop by and see Roman before I leave."

"Okay, now let's see what we have. Eggs, bacon, coffee, toast, some fresh
fruit, muffins, wow, she really went all out. What's under here?"

John lifted the lid and Marlena smiled at him.

"Strawberries," he said, and then lifted another lid, "Oh, and some cream."

"Now, John Black, I know that she didn't include that in your breakfast."

"Nope, I added that little touch, for us."

John dipped the strawberry into the cream, and brought it towards Marlena's
mouth. He moved it so she could bite into it, then moved it away, teasing
her.

"John, what are you doing?"

"Having a little fun."

Marlena smiled and moved closer to him. She then bit down on the strawberry, and
the cream covered her lips.

"Hmmm, that looks so delicious."

John started to kiss away the cream, and Marlena moaned with delight.

"John Black, did you invite me in here to seduce me, or have breakfast
with you?"

John looked at her, and smiled.

"Doc, if I had my way, we would be in that bed, and we would not leave it all
day, but I know that we can't, so I better get those thoughts out of my mind, and
we better sit and eat."

Marlena started to laugh at him.

"Besides, didn't you tell me you had a lot to do for my surprise?"

"Oh, your surprise again."

"Give me a little hint."

"Nope, nope, nope, sit and let's eat this wonderful meal."

Marlena sat down and John sat across from her. She started to put her fork up to
her mouth, and watched John do the same, when she reached over, and knocked it
out of his hand.

"Doc, why did you do that for?"

"If Kristen had this made, who knows what she put in it. She could have drugged
either of these plates. And if you had eaten with her, she might have taken
advantage of the situation."

"Doc, you really think she would have done something like that?"

"She's a DiMera, and I wouldn't put anything past her, look what she did to
Laura."

"Okay Doc, let's leave this and go out and grab a bite."

"I'm not all that hungry now, I am running late, so I'll grab a muffin on the
way to Carrie's. Besides, you have that surprise to work on."

"Your right, I do. Let's go and see Roman before we leave."

"Okay, but before we do..."

Marlena got up and went over to John, and sat on his lap. She took a strawberry,
and dipped it into the cream, and then brought it to his lips. He bit into it,
and then she put her lips on his. She kissed him, like she didn't know when they
would share a private moment like this one. But John knew, and it would be
magical...........

Chapter 9

"Stefano, what have you done?"

"What are you talking about?"

Kristen turned around, to make sure no one was entering the living room.

"Shane Donovan! He's missing. Where is he Stefano?"

"Kristen, why do you assume, that I did something with him."

"Well, he might interfere with your plan. Know something that you don't
want revealed."

"Kristen, why don't you have any faith in me. I have not taken Shane
Donovan."

"You wouldn't tell me if you did, would you?"

"I told you, the less you know, the better it is for you."

"Yes, you have told me that, but does that mean you did take him?"

"Kristen, I won't tell you anything, so this is the end of the
conversation, okay?"

"Okay! I almost had John this morning."

"What do you mean, almost had him?"

"I was going to drug...."

"Please, don't tell me, you were going to do something that foolish."

"Stefano, I want to be with him."

"Kristen, not that way. He will hate you even more. Enough! I have to
go."

"Stefano, we have to talk!"

"Kristen, I get tiresome of your dribble. If you are going to call me,
make sure you have something worth while to say."

Kristen couldn't believe that Stefano hung up on her.

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

Marlena went into Roman's room with John. He was sitting up, eating
breakfast.

"Well, that's what I like to see, you having a good meal."

"Hey Doc, hi John. I have a better appetite today."

"Well that's good. Your color is a little better."

"It's being home, with you and the family. What are your plans today?"

"Well, Carrie and I are getting together. We haven't had a great deal
of time to talk, so I thought I would drop by, and after that, I don't
know, maybe go see Belle. Why?"

"I thought maybe if you came home after seeing Carrie, maybe I would
get out of this bed, and go outside, in my wheelchair."

Marlena looked at John, and he nodded.

"Sure, I'll stop by just to see the kids around lunch and then I will
come home."

"Great."

"I'm sure Caroline or Shawn will be by, and I think Abe said he was
going to come by."

Marlena looked at her watch.

"Oh my, I better get a move on. Carrie's waiting."

"See you later than Doc."

"Yes, goodbye."

"Doc, say hi to my daughter."

"I will."

"John, are you in a hurry to be somewhere?"

John looked at his watch, and then looked at Roman.

"I'm sorry, bu I have a business appointment in about half an hour."

"Oh, could we talk later than, sometime today?"

Marlena looked at John, and he looked back, telling her with his eyes,
that everything is okay.

"Sure Roman, I'll try to get back as soon as I can, so we can talk."

"Thanks John."

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

Sami walked out into the hall, and heard Carrie crying and then some
muffling noises, probably Eric talking to her.

"Sorry Sister dear, but Austin will be mine, forever. You have Mike,
and I must say Lucas putting them together was a brillant plan. Austin is
starting to believe their is something going on between them. I also
better watch myself around Kristen. I can't believe she said that to me.
And I am also going to work on getting John out of Mom's life. She should
be with Daddy."

Sami saw Marlena walking down the hall.

"Hi Sami."

"Oh, hi Mom. What are you doing here?"

"I'm going to see Carrie. Are you going to see Daddy today?"

"Yep, I'm going to take Will over. Isn't it wonderful to have him
home?"

"Yes, it is. Well, I better go. I'll see you later."

"Okay Mom," and Sami went back into her apartment.

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

Marlena went over to Carrie's door, and knocked. Eric opened it and
smiled at his mother.

"Hey Mom, come on in."

Marlena went into the apartment, and saw Carrie sitting on the couch,
wiping her eyes.

"What's wrong Carrie?"

"Oh Marlena, I want so much to be with Austin, but it looks like that
is never going to happen."

Marlena sat down and embraced her.

"Look, I'll give you two sometime to talk. I'm going to see Dad."

"Thanks Eric," said Marlena.

Eric shook his head, and left the apartment.

"Now, tell me what's going on."

Carrie looked at Marlena, then took a deep breath.

"Mike kissed me."

"What!"

Carrie started to tell Marlena about yesterday, and then what led up to
the kiss, and then what Mike had told her, about how he felt. Marlena
listened in disbelief.

"Oh Carrie, all that your going through, and now this."

"Marlena, I was in shock when Mike told me, but he told me that he
understands how I feel for Austin, and he respects that."

"Well Carrie, Mike is a sweet guy, and a Horton. He wouldn't do
anything to interfere with you and Austin."

"But Marlena, right now, there is no Austin and me."

"Carrie, Sami's memory will return, and with your Dad being back, it
might jog it."

"I hope so Marlena, because, right now, things don't look so good for
us."

The phone started to ring and Carrie got up to answer it.

"Hello."

"Hi Carrie."

"Hey Mike."

"How are you doing today?"

"About the same."

"I'm sorry to hear that. I hope that I haven't complicated your
situation even more?"

"No, you are only being honest with me, and I respect that."

"I called the house, and Kristen said that Marlena was over there. Can
I talk to her?"

"Sure can, hold on. Marlena, Mike wants to talk to you."

Marlena got up and took the phone.

"Hi Mike."

"Marlena , the reason why I called, is because the results of the blood
work is taking time. They want to run the test twice, to make sure their
results are conclusive.So, we should know what is exactly wrong with
Roman."

"Thanks for letting me know Mike."

"Can you ask Carrie, if she wants some company? I can drop by."

"Sure."

Marlena put her hand over the reciever.

"Mike wants to know if you would like some company?"

Carrie looked at Marlena, and nodded yes.

"Why should I ignore him because of how he feels. He's been a great
friend, and has been here for me."

Marlena got on the phone.

"Sure Mike, I'm sure Carrie will be home for awhile."

"Great, talk to you soon Marlena," and the phone line was disconnected.

Marlena hung up the phone, and looked at Carrie.

"He was very happy you said yes."

"He's a great guy, and I really do need someone to talk to."

"Oh sweetie, you can come to me or John, anytime."

"Marlena, you have your own problems, you don't need more."

"Carrie, you may be my step daughter, but I never think of you that
way. Your my daughter, as if I gave birth to you, so I will always be
there for you."

Carrie went over to Marlena, and put her arms around her.

"Thanks Marlena, thanks......"

Chapter 10

John came out of the boutique and was carrying the presents he bought
Marlena. He had almost everything set up for Marlena's surprise, he just
had a few more things to do. He was walking through Salem Place, when he
heard someone calling his name. He turned and saw Hope coming towards
him.

"Hey Hope."

"John, how are you doing?"

"Well, things could be better, but we're coping. How are you doing? Any
word from Bo?"

"He called to tell me that's he's still looking for Billie, but still
no luck."

"I hope he finds her soon."

"So do I, I really miss him. He asked me about Roman, and I told him I
didn't have any news to report. He said he'll call you later."

Hope looked down at all the bags John was carrying.

"You been buying out the stores?"

"Oh, these, I am putting a surprise together for Marlena, and these are
part of it, but I do have a few more things I have to do still."

"Can I help?"

"No, that's okay, but could I ask you a favor."

"Sure, what is it?"

"Are you doing anything important tonight?"

"No, nothing on my calender, why?"

"Could you possibly come over to the house, and visit with Roman. I
don't want him to be lonely at any time."

"Sure, I was going by sometime today to see him, so I'll drop by
tonight then."

"Great! Well, I better get going, see you later."

"Yeah, see you."

John walked away from Hope as she stood and watched him leave.

"You sure to love Marlena John, I hope that nothing comes between the
two of you, or nobody."

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

Marlena went into the house and closed the door. She walked into the
living room, and stopped. She turned around to leave when Kristen got up
and started to talk to her.

"Look, don't you think we should get along, after all, we are living in
this house together."

Marlena stopped, turned around and glared at Kristen.

"Why do I want to get along with you, after all that you have done."

"Look Marlena, I did everything to hold on to John. You should
understand that."

"Understand! Kristen, everything you did was evil, pure evil."

"Oh please! Maybe you think that, but it was out of love."

"Love! You don't know the meaning of love. I don't want to get into
anything with you Kristen. I'm going upstairs to see Roman."

"Marlena, Sami's up there with Will, visiting. Tell me something, you
are supposed to have training in psychiatry, and it really puzzles me
that you can't even tell that your little girl is faking her memory loss.
You know, she's a smart girl, she knows how to work things to her
advantage."

Marlena glared once again and Kristen, who smiled back at her.

"Did I hit a nerve?"

"Sami hasn't shown any of her old ways."

"Of course not, she haas to fool all of you, to get what she wants, and
that's Austin. You talk about me being evil, look in your own backyard
Marlena."

Kristen turned around and went towards the doors leading to the garden.
She opened them and went outside, and as she left, Marlena could hear her
laughter.

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

"I'm glad you are so happy Sami. But, I'm worried about your sister, is
she happy?"

"Well, she has been seeing a lot of Mike Horton. I don't know if there
is a romance their, but she seems happy when she's with him."

"Mike's a great guy."

Will started to figdet in Sami's arms.

"Hey big guy, you want to come to Grandpa?"

"Sure he does," said Sami.

She handed Will over to Roman, and watched as Roman started to talk to
the little boy. Marlena just walked into the room to see this and
listened as Roman spoke to their grandchild. She could feel the tears in
her eyes.

"Well, hello."

"Oh, hi Mom. Doesn't Will look cute with Daddy?"

"Yes, he does. Are you having a nice visit with your Grandson?"

"Yes, but I think he wants to play. Why don't we go down to the garden,
then Will can run around."

"Okay, I'll get your wheelchair Daddy."

"Here Roman, I'll take Will."

Marlena took Will and Sami brought over the chair.

"Sami, take Will, while I help Daddy get out of bed, and into the
wheelchair. Suzie,can you help me?"

"Sure Dr. Evans."

Suzie and Marlena helped Roman get into the wheelchair. Marlena put
Roman's slippers on his feet and then started to wheel him out of the
room. Sami, carrying Will and the nurse followed behind them.

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

Carrie was sitting on her couch, when there was a knock on the door. She
got up and answered it.

"Austin, oh, I'm so glad to see you."

"Can I come in Carrie?"

"Sure."

Austin came into the apartment, and Carrie closed the door. She ran over
to him, and put her arms around his neck.

"Oh, I really miss you, and I need you so much."

"I know Carrie, I've missed you, but we need to talk."

Carrie moved away from Austin, and looked at him.

"What is it Austin?"

"We can't be with each other, I know that you have been seeing Mike,
and after a long time of soul searching, I think that it would be wise if
we went our seperate wayss."

"You can't be serious?"

"Yes, I am. I'm sorry, but I have to be there for my son, and I just
don't think that I can be seperated from him, if we went on further with
our relationship, I'm sorry."

Austin left the apartment. Carrie stood there, shocked by what she had
just heard, and then she started to scream..........

Chapter 11

Mike was in the hall, when he heard the screaming. He ran and started to
bang on the door.

"CARRIE, IT'S ME, MIKE! ARE YOU ALRIGHT? CARRIE!"

Mike got scared, since she wasn't answering him, so he tried the door. It
was unlocked. He opened it and rushed inside. He saw Carrie sitting on
the couch, looking at him, dazed.

"Mike, oh, I'm so glad your here."

"I heard you screaming, what's going on?"

"I had a nightmare. Austin told me it was over. It's an omen Mike,
there's no hope for us."

"Carrie, it was only a dream."

Mike sat down beside her.

"Come here," and Carrie fell into Mike's arms, sobbing.

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

Eric went inside the DiMera mansion. He had to see if Carrie was right
about Sami having her memory back. He walked into the room, and heard
voices coming from outside. He walked towards the door, and saw his
parents, with Sami and Will. He went out to join them.

"Hey everybody!"

"Hi son, look, the old man is out of bed."

"That's great Dad."

Little Will looked at his uncle.

"Will, that's your Uncle Eric. Want to go see him?"

Eric walked over to Will, and bent down.

"Hey there big guy."

Will reached out and Eric picked him up.

"You know Sami, I can't really tell who he looks like, not much of
Austin in him?"

"Of course their is. He is his Daddy's son."

Eric looked again at Will, and then looked back at Sami. He noticed that
she was acting strangely now, nervous almost. Sami looked at her watch,
then gasped.

"Is this the time? Oh Will, it's time for you to go home and have your
lunch and get that nap in. I didn't realize it was that late. I'm sorry
Daddy, but we have to go, but I'll see if Grandma can watch Will later,
and I will be back."

"Okay peanut."

Sami went over to Roman, and kissed him, then took Will from Eric.

"Will say goodbye to your Grandpa."

Will grunted, and everyone laughed.

"I'll see everyone later."

"Bye Sami," said Marlena, and she went over and kissed her and Will.

"Goodbye my angel."

Sami left the garden.

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

"Dad, you look a little tired, maybe we should get you back up to bed."

"Just a few more minutes. I really love being out here."

"Okay Roman, but only for a few more minutes."

Kristen walked out, into the garden, with some servants behind her.

"Oh, good, you haven't gone in. I had the staff prepare a late lunch
for all of us, and I thought it would be nice to eat out here."

Marlena looked at her.

"We were taking Roman in."

"Doc, I would love to have lunch out here."

Marlena looked down at Roman, and smiled.

"Okay, sure, but right after lunch, back to bed."

"Okay, it's a deal."

"Good. The staff will have everything ready in a minute. Oh, I do hope
John get's home soon, so then he can join us. He's probably out shopping,
buying me another present, he's such a generous man, and he loves me so."

Marlena turned her head away, so Roman couldn't see her expression.

"Eric, you will join us, there's plenty of food."

"Yes, he will," said Roman. "I have missed so much of your life, I want
to know what you have been doing."

"Sure, for you Dad, I'll stay. Uh, Mom, could I talk to you for a
minute?"

"Sure honey."

"I'll take Roman over to the table, while you two chat."

Kristen pushed the wheelchair away from Eric and Marlena where standing.

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

"What is it Eric?"

"I'm really worried about Carrie. She's so upset with what's going on."

"Yes, I know, but we can't do anything to jepordized Sami, not getting
her memory back."

"She can't recall anything?"

"Well, she had the memory of the affair between John and myself, and
giving birth to Will, but nothing else, well the important memories, like
what she was like before the accident, why?"

"Carrie thinks she has it back, all of her memory. You haven't seen any
signs of it?"

"No, but if she does, she's hiding it really well."

"HEY YOU TWO, COME ON, LUNCH IS SERVED," yelled Kristen.

Marlena looked over in Kristen's direction.

"Oh, something I really want to do, is sit and have a meal with her."

"Just do it for Dad, Mom."

"Yes, for your Dad, come on."

They went over towards the table."

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

"Thanks Alice, I really appreicate it. Yes, I will. Bye."

John hung up the phone, and looked at some papers sitting on his desk. He
couldn't concentrate, his mind was reeling with all that had happened
these past months. Kristen being exposed, Marlena and him, telling how
they really felt about each other, the wedding, that didn't take place,
because of Kristen and Stefano. Roman was alive, and he was happy for the
Brady's, but wht would this do to his relationship with Marlena, since
Kristen lied to the man, and what if he's not Roman. It hasn't been ruled
out. Still now sign of Shane, and he was worried about that. He could
answer a lot of unanswered questions. They had to rely on whatever was
told to them by Kristen, and Roman. John put his head down, and took a
deep breath. He lifted his head to find Abe, standing there.

"I knocked, but I guess you didn't hear me."

"No, I was deep in thought."

"About?"

"Oh, everything, you know partner, right now, I would be on my
honeymoon, enjoying the time with the woman I love, but instead, I'm
resorted to put together something so we can spend some time alone. You
know, I would have told Roman right away, told him about what a lying
scheming person Kristen really is, and why she brought him here, but how
can I hurt him like that?"

"John, aren't you going to hurt him anyways, when he finds out the
truth?"

John looked at Abe, and shook his head.

"I came here to tell you that we have no news on Stefano's wereabouts,
and I checked in with the ISA, nothing on Shane. And they have contacted
Kim, to tell her."

John looked over at Abe.

"They think he's dead, they have stopped the search, haven't they?"

"Yes."

"I know Stefano's has something to do with this, I just know it!"

"We have no proof John."

"I know. Marlena is going to be upset by this news. I should call Kim,
she's a sister to me."

"I'll give you some privacy."

"Thanks for coming over to tell me in person."

"See you later John."

"Bye Abe."

John picked up the phone and made his call to Kim.

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

"I wonder where John got to, he usually calls when he's late," said
Kristen.

Marlena was poking the food around on the plate. She didn't have much of
an appiette.

"Doc, your not eating."

"Hmmm, oh, I'm not that hungry."

"Marlena, cook made all your favorites. Marlena moved in here with us,
when I was pregnant. She was concerned for my baby's health, and mine.
But luck wasn't on my side, I lost my child in Paris, and my Mother,
thanks to Stefano. It was a tramatic time for me, but my good friend
Marlena, helped me through it, she even stayed with us after we got back
from Paris."

"I'm sorry to hear of your loss Kristen. Are you and John trying for
more children?"

"It's complicated, but I hope that we will be blessed again."

Marlena looked at Eric, then got up from the table.

"Doc, something wrong?"

"I have this headache, Roman if you don't mind, I'm going inside to lay
down. Eric and Suzie can make sure you get back to bed."

"Sure, that's no problem Mom."

"Go in and lay down Marlena, when you feel better, come by and see me."

"I will."

Marlena went over to Roman, and squeezed his shoulder. The she glared at
Kristen.

"Oh look, wer ran out of iced tea, I'll go get some more."

"No Kristen, don't bother," said Roman.

"Oh, it's not, I'll be right back, beside's I want to check to see if
John's called."

Kristen got up and went inside the house.........

Chapter 12

"Marlena, I think you should try and get along with me when your around
Roman. He's going to wonder why you and I don't seem like we are good
friends."

"Kristen, I can take so much of this lying, but only to a point. Oh, I'm not
going to waste my breath with you, so, if you will excuse me, I'm going upstairs
to phone my children."

"Oh, you mean Belle, don't you?"

"Yes, and Brady."

"Marlena, he's not your son, so why do you call him yours."

"In my heart Kristen, that little boy is like my own. I am the only mother
figure he's had."

"Now, that's a lie. I have been there for him."

"And thank goodness you were found out before you had anymore exposure to him.
I could just imagine how he may have turned out, with your influence."

"Oh Marlena, aren't you being a little dramatic?"

"Kristen, I am not going to stand here, and argue with you."

Marlena left the room, and Kristen turned and went towards the kitchen.

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

"Eric, have you notice that their is some tension between your Mother and
Kristen? It's like your Mother hates Kristen. Has your Mother gotten over John
or does she hold some kind of grudge, that John married Kristen?"

Eric sat, trying to figure what to say, without giving anything away.

"Dad, I don't sense anything wrong. Why do you say that?"

"Your Mother, the looks she gives Kristen. Her eyes, they show the look of
hate."

"Dad, I think your reading something that's not their. You look a little
tired, why don't Suzie and I take you upstairs, so you can get some rest."

"Okay, I am getting tired."

Kristen came out in the garden.

"What's going on?"

"My Dad's a little tired. We are taking him upstairs.Suzie, could you wheel
him in, I just want to talk to Kristen?"

"Sure."

"Before I go, thank you for the lunch."

"Don't be silly, your our guests. We want you to feel that this is your home,
while you are here."

"Thank you Kristen. Doc and I appriecate this. Okay Suzie."

"Suzie, just wait by the elevator, I'll be there in a minute."

She nodded her head, and left with Roman.

"Eric, what's wrong?"

"My Father has picked up on the tension between you and my Mother."

"Well, talk to her about it."

"Kristen, I think it would be wise if you stayed away from my Mother, when my
Father is in the room. Better still stay away from her completely."

"Well, aren't we overprotective."

"Why not, what you and your demented Father has done to my family, and are
trying to destroy us once again."

"How can you say I am trying to destroy your family. I brought your Father back
to you, and not one of you Brady's are grateful. No thank you's, nothing. You just
think I have motives behind me bringing back Roman."

Eric started to get angry.

"WELL YOU DO KRISTEN, YOUR TRYING TO SPLIT UP MY MOM AND JOHN. I LOVE MY DAD,
AND I WANT HIM WELL, AND YES, I AM HAPPY HE'S HOME, BUT MY MOM LOVES JOHN, AND
THEY SHOULD BE TOGETHER, AND HAPPY, AND MY FATHER SHOULD KNOW WHAT IS GOING ON,
SO HE WON'T BE HOLDING ON TO FALSE HOPES."

"Hey! What the hell is going on out here?" said John.

"Kristen and I are having a little disscusion."

"It didn't sound like a disscusion to me."

"I know John, he's screaming at me."

"And, you probably deserved it."

"I have to go inside, Suzie's waiting for me."

"No Eric, when I got home, she was coming out here, to get you, but I helped
her. So I can find out what the hell is going on here."

"Well, I'm not staying here and be attacked by the two of you."

Kristen stormed out of the garden.

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

"Okay, she's gone, what is going on?"

John saw the table, and noticed the table settings, for four.

"She didn't do this?"

"Yes, and made Mom and me sit here, with Dad, and we had to listen to her
lie somemore to him. Mom couldn't take anymore of it, and excused herself.
And I think Kristen had a go at Mom inside after she left the garden. My Dad,
noticed the tension between them, but more from Mom. He thinks Mom is jealous
of you marrying Kristen. I had to lie to my father, and I hate doing that."

"I know Eric, and if I had my way Roman would know the truth, but until
we know the nature of what is making him so sick, we can't tell him anything.
When is Mike going to get the results?"

"They want to make sure everything is accurate, probably tomorrow," said Eric.

"Listen, why don't you go back to Carrie's, and come back later."

"Yeah, I think I will. Better still, I'll go over to see my Grandparents. I
haven't seen them yet."

"Good idea."

"I'll see you later John."

"Bye Eric."

John watched Eric leave and went over and sat down.

"Oh good, he's gone."

Kristen sat in the chair near him.

"I saw all the packages, are they for me?"

John looked at her.

"You know something, you are really pathetic. I wish you would leave me alone."

Kristen got up, and went over to John.

"Please Kristen, don't even think about it. I'm leaving."

John got up and Kristen grabbed him, and put her arms around him.

"Please Kristen, don't do this. I can't even stomach your arms being around me.
You can't seduce me anymore, cause I don't find you desirable, I find you disgusting,
and the thought of you... please, just leave me alone Kristen!"

John pulled her arms off him and shook his head.

"I swear, by next week, we will all be out of here, and you can take that to
the bank...."

Chapter 13

John went upstairs with the packages. He knocked on Marlena's door, and waited.

"Doc, are you in there?"

He opened the door, and looked inside. She was laying on the bed, asleep. He
smiled and closed the door, and went into his room. He took the large box
out of the bag, and then reached in and took out the black velvet box. He removed
another box, much smaller and put it on the desk. He sat down at the desk, and
started to write a note. He then got up and took the boxes with him. He went
into Marlena's room, and put everything on the dresser.

"Doc, your exhausted. Worrying about Roman, your children, and having to put
up with Kristen. Sleep my lady," and John leaned down and kissed her, softly on
the cheek, then left her room.

The housekeeper was coming down the hall and John stopped her.

"Could you do me a favor?"

"Yes Mr Black."

"Can you make sure Dr Evans is awaken in about an hour."

"Sure Mr Black."

"Thank you."

She left and John went towards Roman's room. When he walked in Carrie and Mike
where in there, along with Eric.

"Hey Carrie, you just get here?"

"Yes, where's Marlena?"

"Asleep! Are you sticking around?"

"Yes, I haven't been here much."

"Why don't you have dinner with Roman. I'll arrange everything."

"That would be a great. He just nodded off, so I think I'll go downstairs, and
take a walk around the garden, it's such a beautiful night."

"Sis, I'll join you. Suzie will be here with him. What time does the night nurse
come on Suzie?"

"At 9:00," she said.

Mike finished looking over Roman's chart and went towards Carrie, Eric and John.

"Mike, how's my Dad?" asked Carrie.

"There's no change. I wish they would get that file to me."

"Could it be possible that the reason is Stefano is forging the records?" asked
Carrie.

"Possible," said John.

"Mike, call them again," said Eric.

"I did, they told me they were on the way."

John looked at his watch.

"Sorry everyone, but I have some plans for this evening, and I have to get
ready. I'll go and talk to cook, and arrange for dinner for all of you."

"Thanks John. Enjoy your evening," said Carrie.

John nodded his head and left the room. Carrie looked at Mike and Eric, then spoke;

"Let's go downstairs to the garden."

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

Sami and Austin were let into the house and were about to go upstairs, when they
Eric, Carrie and Mike coming down the stairs. Sami watched them, and decided it
was time to really put the punch, that would put Carrie right into Mike's arms,
and who knows, maybe his bed.

"Hi everyone, where are you going?"

"Into the garden Sami," said Eric.

"Dad's sleeping," Carrie added.

"Where's Mom, I have some great news to tell her."

"She's sleeping also," said Carrie.

"What's the news?" asked Eric.

Sami grabbed Austin's hand.

"We found our house. It's close to Kate's, it's a nice little home for our
family. Isn't that right Austin?"

"Yeah Sami, Will's going to love it, as much as we did."

"We can't move in for a few months, but it's going to be great, I'll be able to
fix it up the way I want it to look like, make it feel like our home."

Carrie turned around, and started to walk away from them.

"What's the matter with Carrie. I thought she would be happy for us?"

"I'll go and check on her," said Eric.

"No Eric, I'll do it," said Mike.

Austin watched as Mike went after Carrie.

"I'm going to check and see if Daddy's still sleeping."

"Sami, if he is, let him get his rest. Come back down, okay?"

"Eric, I will."

Sami went up the stairs, and Eric turned and looked at Austin.

"What the hell is going on here? You are setting up house with Sami now."

"Look Eric, I don't know if I will ever get the annulment, and I have to
think of my son also. I think that Carrie can be happy with Mike."

"She loves you man, can't you see how much that she was hurt by this news?"

"I know, but it will go away, after awhile. Mike will get her through it."

"Mike will get her through it, what are you talking about? They are friends,
that's all. And I don't think you are being fair to either of my sisters. Sami
should be told the truth, she is strong enough to take it, that's if she doen't
already know everything already."

"She doesn't have her memory back Eric."

"How do you know that. She could and is playing the sweet Sami to fool us all."

"Look Eric, I don't want to discuss this anymore. Tell Sami I had to leave and
I will be back in awhile."

Austin turned and left the house. Eric shook his head and went into the living
room. Sami appeared at the top of the stairs, smiling.

"Yes, this is working just great!"

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

"Carrie, are you alright?"

"Mike, I can't take anymore of this. They have a house, they are moving in there,
together. That's it Mike. I have lost Austin, and I have to go on with my life.
Start living for Carrie, and not for Carrie and Austin. And I think the first
thing is to give Austin back his ring."

"Carrie, I think you should wait, and see if your suspicions about Sami are
true. Your upset, give yourself some time to get over this shock."

"Mike Horton, thank you."

Carrie put her arms around Mike, and hugged him. She moved away a little, and
looked up at him. Then she looked deep into his blue eyes, and felt something
come over her. She moved close to him, and put her lips on his. She gave him a
short, tender kiss, that went from tender, to a more passionate one. Eric watched
from the living room, and couldn't believe what he was seeing. Sami came in, and
saw Eric looking at something, and walked up to him, and looked out. She smiled
at what she saw, only wishing Austin could have seen this.

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

Austin stood in the bushes, watching Mike and Carrie, kissing, and felt the
knife pierce his heart.

"I've lost you Carrie, I have really lost you......"

Chapter 14

Marlena heard the knocking on her door.

"Dr Evans, are you awake?"

"Yes, thank you."

Marlena sat up, and looked at the time. She didn't even remember falling
asleep, she had such a headace after the fight with Kristen. She got up
off the bed, and ran her hands through her hair. She walked over towards
the dresser, and noticed the boxes, and the envelope on top. She picked
it up and opened it. It was from John;

Hello, My Pretty Lady,

                  Open the boxes, and put on everything.
                  I'm sure you can find shoes to go with
                  what I have picked out. Then, when your
                  dressed, their will be a car waiting
                  for you, it will bring you to me.
                  Hurry!
                               I Love You,
                                  John

Marlena brought the letter up to her lips, and kissed it, then put it
down. She opened the first box. She removed the tissue paper, and found
the most stunning gown. She took it out, and put it up against her body.
It was a white, beaded, sleeveless gown, with a slit on the side. She put
the dress on the bed and then opened the smaller box. She gasped at the
sight of the necklace in it. Rubies with diamonds around each one, but
the color of the stones, they were so beautiful. She put the necklace
back into the case. She checked her watch, then smiled.

"This must be part of my surprise. And I guess this evening is going to
be just full of them."

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

Carrie moved away from Mike, looking at him with embarssement, and
confusion on her face. Mike stood their, feeling his heart open and
taking in the love that he just felt this very moment, and he just didn't
want to lose that.

"Oh Mike, I'm sorry. I don't know what....I have to....I'm sorry," and
Carrie ran out of the garden.

Austin watched her leave, and couldn't understand what was going on. Eric
watched Carrie run by him, and went after her. Sami went out into the
garden.

"Mike, do you know what's wrong with my sister? She's really upset."

"Sami, it's personal."

"You two have a fight?"

"Sami, like I said, it's personal. I'm going to look for her."

Mike left and Austin came out from behind the bush.

"Oh Austin! You gave me quite a fright."

"What's wrong with Carrie?"

"Lover's quarrel."

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

Stefano sat and watched what had just transpired in the garden. He sat in
his chair, chuckling out loud.

"Now, that Sami Brady is unique.She has her players for her game, and
the way she is playing them, it's all going to her advantage. Bravo Sami,
I toast you. Now, the next thing you have to do is get Austin to renew
your vows in Church, and it will be a commitment, forever."

"Stefano, what are you doing?"

"Kristen, have you ever heard of knocking."

"I did, but you didn't hear me. What's this nonsense I hear you
babbling about Sami. Who cares! It's John and Marlena we have to
concentrate on."

"Kristen, I have been oberving her, and she knows what she wants, and
what she has to do to get it. Now, your are going to help her a little. I
want you to give her a gift, from me, her greatest admirer."

Stefano looked at the screen, then turned his head, but Kristen looked,
and gasped.

"Why is he dressed like that?"

Stefano looked and saw John was dressed in a tux.

"What the hell is going on over there Kristen?"

"I haven't got a clue."

"Well, don't you think you should go home and find out, instead of
being here!"

"Oh, alright. What about Sami?"

"I'll give you the details later. Go!"

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

John went into see Roman. Hope was sitting by the bed. She turned and saw
John, and got up.

"My, don't you look wonderful."

John pulled at his sleeve of his jacket and laughed.

"Thanks! I just came in to see how Roman was doing?"

"He's sleeping, but don't you think that if he wakes up and sees you,
he might start to ask questions, about why you are so dressed up."

"Don't worry Hope, I have everything covered."

Roman started to cough, and they both turned around. The nurse went over
to the bed and lifted Roman forward, as Hope ran on the other side to
help her. John went intot he bathroom, and came out with some water.
Roman stopped coughing, and John handed the nurse the glass. She brought
it up to Roman's lips. He drank fromt he glass, and she then put it down.

"Are you alright Roman?" asked Hope.

"Yes, the cough's just part of my illness. My Hope, you have grown more
beautiful since the last time I saw you."

"Thank you Roman."

"Give the old brother-in-law a hug."

Hope leaned over and embraced Roman.

"Are you going to stay awhile?"

"I sure am. As long as you want me to stay."

"John, you and Kristen painting the town?"

"No, actually, Marlena and I are spending the evening together."

Hope looked at John, shocked by what she had just heard Roman looked at
him, in disbelief.

"What do you mean?"

"Oh, I'm sorry, that didn't come out right. Marlena and I are on the
board of this charity, and we have to attend this dinner, so we are going
together."

"Kristen's not going with you?"

"Oh, she hates these charity things. I think that she has made other
plans for tonight."

"Are you waiting for Doc?"

"No, I have to leave early, some last minute things I have to do. Hope,
tell Marlena I have a car waiting for her."

"I will John, and have a wonderful evening."

"Night Roman."

"John."

John left the room, and Roman looked at Hope.

"There's something going on here, and I don't think John is telling me
the truth about this evening. The cop in me is sensing that."

"Roman, don't be silly, John told you everything. He was open about
where he was going with Marlena. So enough about that, and you have to
take all that postitive engry and get well."

"Hope, I won't get well, no one know this yet, but, I'm dying."

Hope looked at Roman with shock.

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

Marlena was dressed and just had to put the finishing touch on, and that
was the necklace. She took it out of the box, and slipped it around her
neck, and fastened it. She went towards the mirror, and looked at her
reflection.

"Well John Black, I'm ready and on my way."

Marlena grabbed her evening bag, and left the bedroom. She walked down
the hall, and was nearing Roman's room, when she heard something behind
her. She turned and saw Kristen, standing there.

"Where the hell are you going, dressed like that?"

"It's none of your business Kristen," and walked on down the hall.

She got to Roman's room, and saw Hope embracing Roman. She went inside.

"Is their anything wrong?"

Hope moved away and wiped away the tears.

"No Doc, Hope's just getting a little emotional. You look wonderful.
You are going to knock them out at the charity dinner."

"John was here earlier, and told Roman the two of you had a dinner to
attend to."

"Yes, I have to get going. You get some rest. I thought the children
were here?"

"Oh, I'm sure their around here somewhere," said Roman.

"Marlena, John said there's a car downstairs, waiting for you."

"Thanks Hope."

Kristen came into the room.

"Hello Roman."

"Kristen, John told me that you were out for the evening."

"Oh did he. Well, he was wrong. I forgot, where did he say he was
going?"

Hope spoke up.

"A charity dinner, and Marlena, you better get going."

"Yes, good night," and Marlena left.

Kristen turned and left the room also.

"I'll be back in a minute Roman," said Hope.

Hope got up and left too...............

Chapter 15/P>

Carrie was sitting in the front of the house, with her head down. Eric
came out, and sat beside her.

"I think we should talk sis."

"Okay, but let's go somewhere else, okay?"

"Sure."

Eric and Carrie got up, and went back towards the garden.

"Tell me what is going on Carrie. I saw you and Mike kissing."

Carrie looked at Eric, with tears in her eyes.

"I don't know what came over me. Mike has feelings for me, and I
shouldn't have let him think, that maybe, we had a chance."

"But Carrie, does he?"

"What do you mean Eric? I love Austin."

"Yes, I know you do, but this latest thing about them getting a
house together, it seems that they are moving towards being a family."

"I know, and to me right now, it seems like this is the final step
to cementing the two of them together. I have to face it, that I
will never be with Austin. I know Sami has her memory back, and I
can't prove it, so, I think I have to start thinking about my life,
without Austin, and I think the first thing I have to do, is give
Austin back his ring."

"Carrie, are you going to tell him, that your are giving up ?"

"Eric, I can't go on waiting for him. It's time I start to live my
life."

Carrie started to cry, and Eric held her. Mike walked into the garden
and stopped. Eric saw him and let go of Carrie. She moved away and
turned around. Eric took her hand, and gave it a squeeze, then left
the two of them.

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

Marlena started to walk down the hall, when she felt a hand on her.
She was turned around, and Kristen was standing there.

"What the hell do you think you and John are doing?"

"Kristen, I haven't got a clue what your are talking about, so if you
will excuse me."

"No, I won't have you sneaking off with my husband."

"Kristen, John's not your husband, so why do you keep harping about
that."

Kristen started to move towards Marlena with clenched fists.

"Kristen, stop right there," said Hope.

Kristen turned and looked at her.

"This has nothing to do with you Hope, so why don't you go back in
with Roman."

Hope walked towards the two of them.

"Yes, it does. Marlena and John are family, and good friends to me.
I won't have you disrupting their lives anymore, than you already have."

"Please Hope, why don't you worry about your own life. Where's the
man you love, off to Rome, looking for an old love."

"Bo is looking for Billie, yes, but I know where his heart is, and
that's with me."

"Are you sure Hope?"

"Kristen, nothing you say is going to make me doubt Bo's love. Now,
I'm going back to sit with Roman, and I suggest you go somewhere,
and leave us all alone."

"Well Hope, I think you have forgotten that this is my home."

"Yes, I know, but we wouldn't be all here, if you hadn't lied."

Marlena smiled at Hope and then continued down the hall. Then Hope
turned, and went down to Roman's room and went inside. Kristen looked
towards one of the hidden camera's.

"Oh, why the hell am I getting all of this, while you sit there,
watching!"

Kristen stormed down to her room, and slammed the door.

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

Marlena went outside, and saw the limo waiting. The driver got out and
opened the door.

"Dr Evans."

Marlena walked towards the car, and got in. The driver closed the door
and Marlena waited till he got in.

"Do you know where we are going?"

"I'm not at liberty to say."

"Okay, I guess I'm just going to have to wait."

The car pulled away from the manison.

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

Mike went up to her, and took Carrie's hand.

"Are you alright?"

"I'm sorry Mike, the kiss. I am just so confused, at what is going
on in my life. I have just come to terms that Austin and I are never
going to be together. I am going to give back the ring for sure now.
I can't put my life on hold. What! It could be years. I need to have
a life."

"Carrie, are you telling me, that you might think of giving us a
chance?"

"Mike, I would really like it, if we just remained friends. I need
to find out who Carrie Brady is, alone, with no romantic connection."

"Carrie, I can do that, but I will tell you right now, you will
not be alone. As long as I'm in your life, you will never be, friend!"

Carrie put her arms around Mike.

"Thanks for understanding. We should go upstairs, and see my Dad."

"Okay."

They left the garden and started to walk towards the doors to the living
room. When they got inside, Sami and Austin were sitting on the couch.

"We are going up to see Dad," said Carrie.

"We'll join you."

"John is having dinner brought up to Dad's room, if you two want
to stay?"

"Of course we would."

Mike took Carrie's hand and they left the room, with Sami and Austin
behind them. They were about to go upstairs, when the door bell rang.
Mike went over and answered it.

"Dr Horton please!"

"That's me."

"This is for you."

"Thanks."

Mike took the envelope, and closed the door. He opened it, and looked at
the file folder, then opened that. He looked through each sheet of
paper closely, studying it, re-reading some pages, then he closed it, and
looked over at them.

"Mike, what's wrong?" said Carrie.

"I think we should step back inside, in the other room. I'm not sure
Sami, that you will be able to handle this."

"Just tell us Mike, it's about our Father, isn't it?" said Sami.

"Yes!"

Sami moved closer to Austin.

"Your father has a bacterial infection."

"Oh, that's not so bad," said Sami.

"Sami, this one is deadly. There is no cure."

"Mike, are you telling us, our father, is dying?"

Mike looked at Carrie, hating to have to tell her more upsetting news,
after all she had been through so far today.

"Yes, your Father is dying, and he doesn't have much time."

Mike heard Sami let out a pirecing scream, and dropped into Austin's
arms. Carrie felt the room start to spin, then everything went black.
Mike tried to catch Carrie, but she crumbled to the floor. Eric came
running into the room. Mike was down on the floor, with Carrie's
head in his lap.

"What the heck is going on in here? What's wrong with Carrie?"

"She fainted. Eric, my bag is in the hall."

"I'll get it."

Eric ran out and came back with it. Mike checked Carrie's eyes.

"She's in shock. I need something to keep her warm. There, grab
me that blanket."

Austin grabbed it and gave it to Mike. Hope came running down the
stairs.

"What's happened? I heard a scream."

She saw Carrie on the ground, and Sami in Austin's arms. Then she knew
that they had found out the news. Mike picked up Carrie and put her
on the couch. He was rubbing her hand talking softly to her, then he
went into his bag, looking for something.

"Mike, she's coming to," said Hope.

Carrie opened her eyes, and looked around. She looked at Mike, and
then sat up, and put her arms around him, holding him tightly, while
sobbing.

"It's okay Carrie, I'm here."

Hope went over to Eric, and put her arms around him.

"I'm sorry Eric."

"About what? What is going on?"

"Daddy's dying, Mike just said Daddy's dying."

Sami turned and looked at Mike.

"This can't be true Mike. Their wrong! My Father is not dying."

"I'm sorry Sami, but it's true."

Austin watched Carrie, as she held tightly on to Mike. His heart was
breaking, he should be the one holding her, consoling her. He felt that
Carrie was slipping away from him, and there was nothing he could do.

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

The car stopped, and Marlena couldn't see where she had arrived. The
windows of the limo were darken, so she waited for the driver to
open the door. She opened her compact, to check her make-up, and then
put it back into her bag. The door opened and Marlena started to
get out of the car. She looked around, and saw she was down by the
river.

"Do you know why we are here?"

"No Dr Evans, but if you will take my arm, I will escort you to the
next mode of transportation you will be taking."

"Okay," said Marlena, and took the driver's arm.

They walked down towards the water. Marlena saw a beautiful yachet,
docked on the water, and realized that they were walking towards it.
When they reached the yachet, another man came towards them.

"Good Evening Dr Evans, and welcome."

"Thank you."

"I will escort you on board."

Marlena let go of the driver's arm, and turned to him.

"Thank you."

"Good Night Dr Evans, and enjoy your evening."

Marlena took the other man's arm, and they boarded the yachet. Marlena
was wondering where John was. She thought she would have seen him
by now.

"Excuse me, but is Mr Black on board?"

"No Dr Evans, but we will be joining him. Here, you sit on deck, and
I was told to give you this."

Marlena sat and took the box. She opened it, and found the most
beautiful shawl. She wrapped it around her shoulders, and a steward
came out with a glass of champagne. He handed it to her, and she took
it. Marlena felt the boat gliding along the water, taking her to the
man she loved.

"I'm on my way, my love......."