David, Lola and Krystal 06/13/2013

David walks into Wild Wind and heads straight up the stairs to his lab he opens the door quickly flipping on the lights as he comes through the door. He looks over at the pile of boxes stacked neatly on Michael’s desk and smiles it had been a long time since he’d looked forward to something he couldn’t wait to get started he walks to his desk unlocks it and pulls a ring of keys from then walks to his file cabinet and unlocks gliding open the third drawer and rifles through to the back of the drawer till he finds his leather document pouch then fingers through the ring till he gets to the small key slides it into the lock unzipping it quickly.

 

David: Dam! (He grumbles tossing the pouch back into the drawer and kicking it shut. That’s why Adam had been so smug he’d had it stolen) Son of a bitch! (Some how he’d known as soon as he’d walked in his office and looked at Adam he’d lacked that look of panic in his eye. He’d doubted it would work in the first place but now he’d forced him to go his other plan although a bit more complicated it would achieve the results he wanted and there was no time like the present to get started. He locks the cabinet tosses the keys back in his desk and locks it then leaves the lab shutting the lights and locking he door behind him whistling to his self as he walks down the hall then down the stairs toward the living room)

Darius: Daddy! (He yelps running down the hall and jumping in to his arms)

David: Hey slugger how was your day?

Darius: Great! I got a one hundred on my spelling test and my geography test!

David: Wow! That is excellent I’m so proud of you!

Darius: So will you take to the batting cages after dinner tonight?

David: Of course that’s what I promised you I would do right.

Darius: Right!

David: And Daddy always keeps his promises right?

Darius: Right!

David: So right after dinner?

Darius: Right!

David: What did Mommy make for dinner?

Darius: I don’t know it smells like when she makes roast beast.

David: Roast beef. (He laughs) where’s Mommy?

Darius: She’s in the living room with Aunt Lola.

David: Why don’t you go change in to your practice uniform and wash your hands for dinner?

Darius: Okay Daddy I’ll be right back.

David: I’ll be right here. (He gives him a quick hug then sets Darius back down on the floor smiling as he watches him scamper up the steps then walks the short distance down the hall into the living room) Good Evening ladies!

Krystal: Hey ya honey! (She rises from her chair giving David a welcoming hug and kiss then walks to the bar and pours him a martini and hands it to him then returns to her place on the sofa)

David: Hello Lola. Thank you (He takes the glass from Krystal and slips it then nods his approval taking the place next to her on the couch)

Lola: Hello David.

Krystal: Lola came by with some good news.

David: Oh yeah? (He sips his drink then sits back against the cushions waiting for what ever earth shatter news she had. There was something he still didn’t quiet trust about her she was just a little too good to be true)

Krystal: She bought a house!

David: Congratulation! (He smiles saluting her with his drink waiting for the other shoe to drop)

Lola: Thank you.

David: Where?

Krystal: Remember down the road that little white and red house around the corner from Tad?

David: Yeah? (He nods recalling passing it on his way to and from there. That was close maybe a little too close)

Lola: I bought it today!

David: Congratulation! When do you move in?

Lola: I should be able to have all my stuff moved from storage by the end of the week. (Grinning proudly feeling happy to finally putting down roots for the first time in a long time)

Krystal: I’ll check with Carmen see if she can handle the restaurant Friday and I’ll help you unpack.

Lola: That would be great!

Krystal: What made you decided on that one?

Lola: After my first disappointment Miriam suggested looking on this side of town closer to my family and how did she put it close enough to the hospital to get there in an emergency and far enough away that I don’t have to be reminded on my day off.

David: And further away from her daughter. (He adds smiling devilishly he was sure Liza would be ecstatic about the news)

Krystal: Ignore him, Miriam’s right and I like having you close by. Close enough that you can ride that bicycle of yours. (She teases grinning behind the rim of her glass as Lola laughs and looks flustered)

Lola: Why does everyone keep picking on my poor bike? (She laughs again then takes a sip of her drink. David looks from one to the other noting Lola’s tentative smile as if she had said more than she had meant to)

David: Who’s everyone? (He ask knowing it was the last question she wanted to hear but his curiosity got the best of him and there had to be more behind that deer in the headlights look)

Lola: Adam Chandler asked me why I’d be riding it over here as if it was some bizarre notion. (She says her light tone ringing false in David’s ears like the rest of the weak minded she’d fallen for that deadly Chandler charm)

David: It is at Adam’s age!

Krystal: Where’d you run in to him? (She says taken aback by the mention of Adam making her wonder if he was up to his old tricks)

Lola: I met him when he stopped by the house to drop something off to Miriam. I think he bought a property from her. (She says casually relaxing some of the tension that had started in Krystal’s neck her explanation seeming innocent enough since Adam often did business with Miriam so their meeting could have been coincidence. David watches Lola careful now was as good a time as any to test his theory)

David: So what did you think of our resident megalomaniac?

Lola: He seemed very charismatic and pleasant.

David: Are you sure it wasn’t his brother Stuart?

Lola: No, I’m sure he said he was Adam. (He smirks she was charmed she came immediately to his defense)

Krystal: David’s just kidding Adam can be quite charming when he wants to.

David: Like most snakes before they bite you. (He mutters as smirking to his self he walks to the bar placing his empty glass down)

Lola: I’m sorry David I didn’t hear what you said.

David: I said you just met him it’s nice of you to give him a fair shake.

Krystal: Just be careful around him remember what I told you about him.

Lola: Don’t worry I remember. (David watches Lola and grins to his self her lips were saying she remembered but her eyes and body language said something completely different this could get very interesting and very useful. Darius runs into the living wearing his old uniform and cap carrying his glove and David’s)  

Darius: Mom! Is dinner ready? (He stops in front of her looking at her with big anxious eyes)

Krystal: Well look at you! (She takes of his hat ruffles his hair then places it back atop his head)

Lola: Do you have a game today? (She stands placing her glass on the bar next to David’s)

Darius: Daddy said after dinner we’re going to the batting cages! (He looks up at her his eyes bright with excitement as he looks from her to David)

Krystal: Well then lets get you fed and out of here so you can bat them over the fence! Come on everyone. (She takes her sons hand and marches him towards the dinning room Lola in tow. David watches the trio swaggering behind him congratulating himself on his good fortune given by a chance meeting)

Jamie and Francessca 06/12/2013

Jaime: Heyyyy! (He calls gently sliding in to the room and closing the door behind him) how are you feeling?

Francessca: Hey honey! (He leans in closes and kisses her gently he pulls the blanket to the side smiling as his son drifts off to sleep) Fine a little tired but for the most part good.

Jamie: Is he sleeping?

Francessca: He just dozed off. (She smiles up at him and nods her head)

Jamie: He’s had a big day and so has his momma.

Francessca: Yeah, one of the longest ones I can remember but this little guy (She kisses the sleeping child forehead as she rocks him in her arms) just couldn’t wait to get here.

Jamie: God, he is so amazing.

Francessca: I think so.

Jamie: and look at all that hair!

Francessca: That explains all the indigestion.

Jamie: It couldn’t possible be the pepperoni pizzas with onions?

Francessca: No, not at all. (She shakes her head in mock denial and laughs)

Jamie: He’s so tiny.

Francessca: Who you calling tiny? He’s eight pounds two ounces twenty-two inches I’d say that’s a nice size baby.

Jamie: Wow!

Francessca: You want to hold him?

Jamie: I don’t want to wake him. (She hands him the sleeping child giving him no choice but to take him then stretches her arms out in front of her)

Francessca: You’re not going to wake him.

Jamie: How’s my boy? (He stands and slowly paces the room cradling his son in his arms)

Francessca: Logan, say “hi” to Daddy! (She reaches for her phone on the night stand snapping a quick picture of Jamie holding their son)

Jamie: So I guess Shania is out? (He winks)

Francessca: It was never in! (She laughs) Logan Michael Martin what do you think?

Jamie: I like it. It fits him! (He nods in agreement)

Francessca: I wanted to name him after my Dad’s but there are way too many Michael’s in this family and then somebody would want to give him a nickname and what’s left Mickey? Yuck! (She contorts her face looking as if she’s swallowed a lemon making Jamie chuckle)   

Jamie: Hey, Logan how you doing little guy you’re out cold who could blame you? You had a very big day today so you get some rest. I can’t wait till you get big enough I’m going to teach you how to ride a bike, how to catch jellybeans in your mouth, throw a football kick a soccer ball and anything else you want to do. That’s right whatever you want to do I’ll be right there with you. Now why don’t you finish your nap and let Mommy and I talk. (He smiles laying the baby in the bassinette, then sits on the bed next to Francessca and holds her in his arms she lays her head against his chest snuggling her nose against him enjoying the scent of him and the strength and comfort she always felt in his arms flow through her. She’d waited all day for this moment)

Jamie: I’ll admit I was scared. (He kisses her again this time slowly savoring the taste and feel of having close)

Francessca: So was I! (She looks up at him then pulls his arm tighter around her) All I could think about was what if his thing falls?

Jamie: All I wanted to do was climb down in there with you. The thought of you in there giving birth and all the “what if’s” running through my mind. (He pulls her closer resting his head on the top of hers) I don’t know what I would have done if anything had happened to the two of you. (He kisses the top of her head and looks over at the baby sleeping bassinette next to them)

Francessca: I don’t even want to think about it I was just glad Rego insisted on helping me carry the art supplies to my car or I would have been in there by myself! (She says with a shudder) 

Jamie: Yeah! (He sighs with relief then chuckles) If we were scared he must have been freaking out.

Francessca: A couple of times there I thought he was going to loose his lunch. (She laughs at the memory of the look on his face when he saw the baby was crowning)

Jamie: It must have felt a little awkward.

Francessca: At first but once he calmed down he was actually really good he was funny and empathetic I was actually kind of glad he was there.

Jamie: Really? (He looks down at her his eyes questioning)

Francessca: It made me feel a little less guilty you know, (She looks up at him he stares at her a moment then stares unseeing out the window) at least we didn’t steal that moment from him. I figured no matter what happens in the future at least we won’t be taking that from him too.

Jamie: Are you having second thoughts?

Francessca: I did. (She feels the tension instantly as the arm that held her tensed. He looks back at her his face compassionate yet disappointment dulled the smile in eyes that had been there before)

Jamie: We can still tell him if that’s what you want

Francessca: After everything that happened today for a moment there I came really close to telling him the truth.

Jamie: What stopped you?

Francessca: The elevator doors opened. (She shrugs) 

Jamie: Is that the only reason?

Francessca: At that moment yes but not now (Her tone resolute leaving no room for reproach she lays her head back against Jamie’s chest her palm resting against it she smiles as she feels the tension leave him) I know we’re doing the right thing. I was thinking about it after thing settled down and I was so glad I didn’t. (She sighs with relief at the divine intervention that had kept her from making that blunder)  For one thing I was just caught in the moment and probably just a little shock. I’m a mother and I have to do what’s best for our son. I have to think with my head not my heart. (Remembering back to right before they stepped in the elevator and the doors closed and she’d gotten a glimpse of Cassandra coming from Randi’s room and the look on her face when she’d seen Rego helping her) He hasn’t grown up and he’s still playing games with Cassandra.

Jamie: Wait I thought she was with that Devereaux guy. (He pulls away looking down at her she stares up at him in disbelief)

Francessca: Come on Jamie when has that ever mattered to either one of them?

Jamie: You’re kidding right? (He shakes his head still not believing what he was hearing, She pulls away from him sitting up so her arms crossed over her chest) brows drawn in to a v-shape)

Francessca: What’s with Rego’s sudden interest in Randi? I not saying they’re not friends but Randi has been in the hospital for months all of a sudden both he and Cassandra start visiting Randi on the regular oh and coincidentally always on the same days at around the same times? Give me a break! (She chuckles shaking her head at Jamie naïveté)  Natalia and I had that figured out in like two seconds flat.

Jamie: I never noticed.

Francessca: Trust me those two are still together and Rego will never grow up he seems to like drama. They may think they have everyone else fooled but their still creeping around town. Now instead of me they have that Devereaux guy in the mix. (She smirks devilishly) He impresses me, as the type that will be way nastier than I ever was when he finds out.

Jamie: You’re not kidding (He whistles between his teeth she was right the man was a shark in business darn right dangerous he couldn’t imagine his personal life would be any different)

Francessca: I’m never going to tell him especially not as long as he’s with her.

Jaime: So that’s it? (He smiles down at her pulling her close again glad they were finally putting it all behind them)

Francessca: That’s it we’re never going to talk about this again. (She holds him tighter snuggling down in to his warm embrace)

Jaime: Good because I have a way better way to spend our time. (He teases)

Francessca: Oh yeah?

Jaime: Yeah, (He reaches in his pocket and takes out his phone) I took pictures of Dad and Opal when I took the baby up to see him. (Handing her his phone enjoying her face light up as she flips through each photo)

Francessca: When did you do that?

Jamie: While you were sleeping.

Francessca: Oh wow these are great!

Natalia: Hey! (She pushes the door her arms filled with a large bouquet of flowers and places them on the night then give Francessca a big hug) Congratulations Mommy and Daddy!

Brot: Here I got this for you Jamie. (Handing him a square wooden box)

Jamie: Real Cuban cigars this is amazing! (He opens the lids and pulls one out running it slowly under his nose enjoying the rich smell of the tobacco) Thank you!

Brot: Only the best for the best! (He moves around the side of the bed leans down and kisses Francessca’s cheek) How you doing darling?

Francessca: I’m fine. Thanks for the flowers guys they’re beautiful!

Natalia: Oh my God! (She moves to the bassinette looking down at the sleeping baby sighing in awe) Look at him! He’s gorgeous! Can I hold him? (She turns towards her eyes half pleading)

Francessca: Of course why are you even asking? (She reaches for her phone snapping a few pictures of Natalia holding Logan for the first time. Natalia smiles down at the infant in her arms then walks to Brot. He places his arm around Natalia and looks down in awe of the tiny life in Natalia’s arms) Logan say hello to your Godparents Aunt Natalia. (She says snapping the look on their face as their heads fly up mouths agape, grinning from ear to ear)

Brot: You’re kidding right? (His eyes bright with surprise his voice cracking with suppressed emotions)

Jamie: We couldn’t think of two better people.

Brot: I’m, we are so honored Thank you! (He gives Jamie a hearty hug slapping him on the back for good measure)

Natalia: We are going to be “Thee” best Godparents you have ever seen!

Miriam Adam and Lola 06/07/13

Lola stands inside the vacant house as Miriam extols the virtues of every nook and cranny of it.

 

Miriam: And it has a lovely backyard the owners had new sod put down just last summer.

Lola: It’s really lovely.

Miriam: And your sister’s home is only a few blocks down the road.

Lola: I really like it but I still like that one we first saw! I’m still so disappointed it sold so quickly.

Miriam: Unfortunately as I told you houses like that don’t stay on the market for very long. Besides the kitchen in this one is much bigger and you have those lovely walk-in closets in the master bedroom.

Lola: That’s true but that one was just so perfect.

Miriam: You know Tad lives on the street behind you about a block or so that way. They have to pass by to get to the park.

Lola: Oh wow! So I could literally run in to them.

Miriam: And you’re close enough to get to the hospital quickly but far enough away that on your day off you don’t have to see it.

Lola: You know what if I can’t have that one this one would be a great substitute.

Miriam: So should I go out to the car and get the contracts?

Lola: Yes! I’ll take it!

Miriam: That’s great don’t go away I’ll be right back!

Lola: I’ll be right here. (Lola walks through the living room starring through the large bay window into the backyard as Adam bellows his way through the front door)

Adam: Miriam! Miriam!

Lola: Hello? (She calls walking to the center of the room)

Adam: Miriam? (He walks from the entry hall into the living room pleasantly surprised by the enchanting creature smiling before him

Lola: Sorry she stepped out back for a moment to get her briefcase. Can I help you? (She says coming towards him. His curiosity peaked she was tall attractive her smile warm and inviting making him feel instantly comfortable and surprisingly aroused)

Adam: And you are?

Lola: I’m Dr. Lola Colgate and as soon as Miriam gets back this is going to be my house.

Adam:  Nice to meet you, sorry I should have realized she was working. I’m Adam Chandler Miriam’s brother in-law.

Lola: Very nice to meet you. (She feels warmth wash over her as she stares up in to his crystal blue eyes burning in to hers she blushes slightly then turns towards the window watching Marion sift through the briefcase on the hood of her car to qualm her pounding heart)

Adam: That’s very kind of you. (He clears his throat and adjust his tie as he walks around the empty space composes his racing thoughts) This is a very lovely house I’m sure you’ll be happy here.

Lola: I hope so it’s been a long time since I put down roots and this place is close to my family. (She turns back towards him as he walks to the window to stand beside her. He looks out nodding in approval)

Adam: Nice sized backyard lots of room for picnic and barbeque you could probably squeeze in one of those jungle gyms for your kids. (He looks at her out the corner of his eye the forlorn looking that flashed across her face telling him she had no nuclear familial ties good!)

Lola: I umm don’t have any children but I have some very active nieces and two nephews I adore.

Adam: Even better! At the end of the day they go home to the parents.

Lola: Very true. (They both laugh their eyes locking again and sending a warm longing heat between them the intimate moment not missed on Miriam as she walks in to the room. This situation just seemed to deteriorate daily! She was happy it was almost over and she could tell Liza the deed was done then remove herself from the entire thing)

Miriam: Adam! What are you doing here? (She calls breaking the obvious sexual tension between them by Adam’s sheepish expression as he turns towards her)

Adam: I wanted to drop off that check I owe you. (He reaches in to his breast pocket for his check book ripping the check from the case and handing it to her)

Miriam: Ah so you like it! (Smiling at the bonus he’d attached to it)

Adam: It’s perfect thank you.

Miriam: Glad I could help. (She folds it and tucks it safely into her pocket. She looks up at the two of them both looking oddly guilty as she catches them stealing glances at each other again. Liza wasn’t going to like this at all and she didn’t want to even think of Krystal’s reaction but still, it was going to be delicious to watch) I suppose you two have met? (She looks from one to the other smiling like that cat who eaten the canary)

Adam: Yes, yes Dr. Colgate was just telling me she’d bought this house.

Miriam: Yes, and it’s an excellent buy for the location. Tad around the corner Wild Wind a few miles down the road. (She chuckles inwardly wondering how quickly it would take Adam to make the connection)

Lola: Yeah I could actually ride my bike to Wild Wind if I wanted too.

Adam: If you don’t mind my asking why would you be riding your bike to Wild Wind? (Miriam grins devilishly that didn’t take long at all and timing was everything)

Lola: To visit my sister and her kids.

Adam: Your sister and her kids? (He looks at her confused was her sister some maid over at Wild Wind? Miriam watches the perplexed look on Adam’s face. This was just too delicious to believe)

Miriam: Oh Adam you don’t know? Dr. Colgate is Krystal’s sister. (And “boom” goes the dynamite by the look on Adams face)

Adam: Krystal’s sister? I wasn’t aware that Krystal had a sister.

Miriam: It was a surprise to all of us. (She slips in enjoying every moment of Adam’s inner struggle maybe this time he’d think before he acted)

Lola: We’re half sisters.

Adam: Ahh! (Miriam looks at Adam as the inner battle subsided and rational thinking evaporate with his next words)  I must say I don’t see much of a family resemblance.

Miriam: Oh I don’t know I see quiet a resemblance. (She laugh as Adam gives her his viper glare)

Adam: I should get going.

Miriam: Yes you should don’t you have a meeting to get to? (She says coolly handing the paper work to Lola)

Adam: It was pleasure meeting you Dr. Colgate. (He turns to her their eyes locking again and they become lost in each other)

Lola: Nice you have met you too.

Adam: I hope we see each other again very soon.

Lola: I’m sure we will.

Miriam: Good-bye Adam. (She calls again this time more stern)

Adam: Good day Miriam say hello to Stuart,

Miriam: I certainly will! (She says in her best realtor voice and waves) Bye-bye darling.

Adam: Good day Dr. Colgate.

Lola: Mr. Chandler. ((He glances back once then nods then walks out the door. Miriam looks from one to the other watching the sparks flying between them her thoughts spring to Liza. Perhaps it would be best if she didn’t tell her about this little development until after she got her bonus check from her)

Tad and Opal 06/05/2013

Tad: Momma? (He calls to her blinking his eyes to focus) What are doing here?

Opal: Hey there love-bug how ya feelin? (She lays he magazine on the chair and comes to his bedside)

Tad: I’m okay. Have you been here all this time? (Taking his fist and rubbing his eyes)

Opal: Oh I kept myself busy, (She smirks) knitting you that big sock you asked me for.

Tad: Big sock? (He looks at her confused)

Opal: Yeah before you dozed off you asked me to knit you a big sock for your big foot.

Tad: Oh good grief! (He lays his head back against the cushions and rolls his eyes)

Opal: I’m just teasing you. (She laughs)

Tad: So I didn’t ask you to knit me a sock?

Opal: Oh you did ask for me to knit you a sock but I stayed because you said you had something you wanted to talk to me about.

Tad: Yeah, (He sighs) I’ve been wanting to know if you’ve spoken to the Thompson since…(Swallowing hard)

Opal: Briefly. (She nods)

Tad: How are they?

Opal: Oh, just about what you would expect considering the circumstances. (She shrugs crossing her arms across her chest)

Tad: I wanted to know (swallowing back his unshed tears) if they could make the arrangements for Taylor’s funereal?

Opal: They came by earlier today while you were sleeping she and Ruth got to talking with them earlier to try and plan a memorial service. We thought we might have it in the Hospital Chapel so maybe you could come.

Tad: Even if they have it here I won’t be able to, not with my leg in traction.

Opal: Rhea thought about that she said she could set up something for you from your hospital room.

Tad: No, (He chokes out his throat constricted by his emotions) Taylor and I already said good-bye.

Opal: They were also thinking about taking her home with them but they wanted to discuss that with you first.

Tad: No! (He shouts his voice filled with anger)

Opal: Don’t kill the messenger!

Tad: I’m sorry Momma.

Opal: Its okay honey this can’t be easy for you.

Tad: It not easy on any of us especially not the girls.

Opal: Those poor kids they’ve been through so much in their short little lives. (Shaking her had ad making a “tsk” sound then sighs)

Tad: They haven’t seen the news have they?

Opal: No, everyone’s been keeping them pretty busy and away from the boob-tube and between Jesse and Adrian we’ve the reporters at bay.

Tad: I just want to be the one who tells them. I think it would be better coming from me.

Opal: I understand.

Tad: What time is it?

Opal: Oh about three-thirty.

Tad: What happened I thought Cess was going to bring them by this afternoon? (He looks up at her confused. Opal smiles down at him happy for the change of subject)

Opal: Well she was but she’s been pretty busy all most of the day. (her tone and look both evasive and playful)

Tad: Too busy to bring the girls by? (His lips and brow knitted with consternation) That just doesn’t sound like her.

Opal: Well like I said she was really busy. (She turns her back to him picking up her purse flicking absently through it’s contents as she smothers a giggle as Tad’s annoyance grows)

Tad: What the heck kept her so busy she couldn’t bring them?

Opal: She was giving birth to your new grandson! (Her face glowing with happiness and pride)

Tad: Francessca had the baby? (His eyes bight with surprise his voice filled with wonder)

Opal: All eight pounds two ounces twenty-two inches of him.

Tad: Nice size boy!

Opal: Oh Tad you should see him! (She gushes) He is absolutely beautiful and Jamie is just the proudest Poppa that you’ve ever seen! They’re going to bring him by later.

Tad: I thought she had another couple of weeks?

Opal: Wait till I tell you what happened you’re not going to believe it! (She pulls the chair closer to the bed leaning in conspiratorially)

Tad: So tell me what happened! (Slapping his cheeks with his hands opening his eyes making them both laugh)

Opal: Oh you! Well, it seems that Francessca was on her way to the Miranda Center and got trapped in the elevator and just that quick went into labor. (She says with a snap of her fingers)

Tad: So wait a minute, she had the baby in the elevator? (He stares at her incredulous)

Opal: Yes she did (Nodding her head in agreement) and lucky for her Rego was there or the poor thing would have had that baby all by her lonesome!

Tad: You’re kidding right? (His brow lifted he cross his arms across his chest and chuckles)

Opal: No, I’m serious. (He tons and expression ceasing his laughter)

Tad: Where was Jamie? (His voice heightened with concern)

Opal: Oh, he was there (She reassures then furrows her brow in thought) kind of, he was on the phone telling Rego what to do. They just got out of there maybe about three hours ago or so.

Tad: That’s just bizarre. (He lays his head back on the cushions sighing heavily at the irony of it all)

Opal: I’d say your reaction is bizarre. (She shakes her head in disbelief)  That’s all you have to say? I thought that news would have made you happy.

Tad: It does make me happy Momma (His voice and expression becoming sullen) its just Taylor’s gone and within twenty-four hours a babies born. Its just…just… I’m sorry I’m not myself.

Opal: I know honey, I know. (She sooths brushing the hair back from his face)

Jamie: Heeeey! (He slides through the door grinning like a Cheshire cat his son cradled in his arms)

Opal: Oooo! There he is! (She stands clapping her hands together in delight)

Jaime: Hi! I have someone that been very anxious to meet you. (He comes towards the bed placing the baby in his father’s arms) Say “hi” to your Grand-pa.

Tad: Look at him! (He smiles down at the baby) How’s Grandpa boy? Huh.

Jamie: He’s doing really great.

Tad: How’s Cessca doing? (Looking up at his proudly smiling son)

Jamie: She’s fine she’s sleeping at the moment so me and this little guy here decided to come up to see you two.

Opal: We’re sure glad you did! (She hugs Jamie then sits down on the bed next to Tad and strokes her Great grandson’s tiny fingers)

Tad: Yeah we are. (He snuggles the baby close to him then kisses the top of his head)

Jamie: Got it! (He says clicking his phone then stares down at the image) Cessca’s going to love this!

Ryan 05/13/2013

Ryan sits at the now empty table and looks around the restaurant. Of all the places in Pine Valley, the Pine Valley Inn was his least favorite. Not because there was anything wrong with it in fact it was a great place but the place literally haunted him with so many of his memories with Gillian some wonderful some painful but all of her. If he closed his eyes he could see the last time they had been here the candle light dancing in her eyes, he could hear the music in her laugh smell perfume in her hair taste the whine on her lips. It was the first time in his life he had been truly happy and at peace with the demons that had chased him for so long and it was all because of her. His breath caught in his throat as his heart wrenched with pain with the memory of finding her barely alive in the tower. It felt as fresh as the day his life imploded around him burning him to his core. Letting go of her had been the hardest thing he’d ever done in his life. When he’d let her go his heart had gone with her and what was left was as cold and lifeless as her body lying in her grave. That’s why after her death for years he’d tried to avoid coming here.

 

Waitress: Can I get you anything Mr. Lavery? (She smiles down at him)

Ryan: Yes, Double Scotch neat. (He looks up at her smiling his mood still distracted)

Waitress: I’ll be right back.

Ryan: Thank you. (She turns to take her order to the bar then turns back)

Waitress: Mr. Lavery I just wanted to say I was so sorry to hear about your wife.

Ryan: Thank you.

Waitress: You probably don’t remember me but I was your waitress when you and Miss. Smythe celebrated your engagement. I remember you were both so happy. It actually gave me back my faith in romance.

Ryan: That’s very nice of you thank you.

Waitress: No, really I should be the one thank you, I’ll be right back with your drink. (She smiles turns and walks away leaving Ryan with his thoughts)

 

          Greenlee. His mind going back to the reason he’d come to the Inn, in the first place. If anyone had told him that some day he’d fallen in love with her of all people he’d have called them a bold face liar. After everything she had put Gillian and him through the fact that he’d had said “Hello” to her was a miracle let alone marry her and build a life with her but just as always the moment he found happiness it was taken from him and Greenlee was no different.

 

Waitress: Here you go. Let me know if there is anything else I can get for you.

Ryan: Thanks I will.

 

Ryan picks up his glass and sips then swirls around the glass watching as the liquid melt down the sides contemplating what Kendall had said to him. Kendall had, had a point if Greenlee was alive why wouldn’t he be here? Why wouldn’t she have come back to him? For Christ sake she’d died on what was supposed to be their wedding day! If she were alive out there somewhere she’d have to know how deeply her death had affected him. There was no way she wouldn’t understand how much hurt and pain he’d been in and still was in some ways especially after what had happened between them when he’d come back from the dead. She wouldn’t d that to him would she? Was her keeping this all a secret from him been her way of punishing him? Why? He thought that they had moved past all of that or was there another reason all together?

 

Dani: Ryan? (She smiles walking over to his table)

Ryan: Dani? (He smiles broadly as he stands to greet her)

Dani: Hey! (She squeals giving him a friendly hug then releases him)

Ryan: Lilly, how are you? (Turning towards an uncomfortable looking Lily)

Lily: My father doesn’t want me to talk to you.

Ryan: Why? (He grins rearing back on his heels)  We used to be friends weren’t we?

Lily: Yes, but that was before. (She says then stares down at her shoes an uncomfortable silence falling between the trio for a moment)

Ryan: So how are you Dani?

Dani: I’m great and from what I hear you’re not doing too shabby either.

Ryan: Yeah I’m back at Cambius. What are you doing here?

Dani: Lilly and I were just picking up the food for our celebration.

Ryan: Oh yeah what you guys celebrating? (he says looking from one to the other)

Dani: The anniversary of our all living together.

Lilly: I still don’t know why we couldn’t just have a pizza?

Dani: We have pizza all the time this is supposed to be a special occasion that’s why.

Lilly: But I like pizza.

Dani: I promise I’ll get you one tomorrow. (She looks over at the service counter at the waiter waving to her)  Excuse me a moment I’m going to check on our order. (She walks to the counter leaving Ryan and Lily alone)

Ryan: So Lily how are things over a Slater-Cortlandt? (He smiles broadly hoping to relax her enough to maybe draw information from her)

Lilly: Good.

Ryan: Your Dad and brother how are they doing?

Lilly: They’re good. (She squirms nervously looking over at Dani who in engrossed in conversation with the waiter)

Ryan: You graduated from college last year didn’t you?

Lily: Yes.

Ryan: So what did you major in? (Ryan watches as Lily’s face brightens and her voice fills with excitement)

Lily: I had a double major I have a Bachelors in accounting and Chemistry.

Ryan: Wow, that’s terrific.

Ryan:  Did Reggie graduate too?

Lily: We both did. (She smiles proudly)

Ryan: Your Dad must be really proud of you.

Lily: He was he cheering really loud everyone was looking at him. (She giggles)

Ryan: That’s wonderful. So did you have a graduation party?

Lily: We had a big one Dad invited the entire family even invited Mary Smythe. (She giggles again)

Ryan: Wow, (He says laughing with her) so did Greenlee come?

Lily:  She couldn’t come but she sent Reggie and…(She stops mid sentence her eyes growing wide her face going pale) I have to go! (She says walking quickly over to Dani. She looks back at Ryan then turns away just as quickly picks up one of the bags and walks toward the door. Ryan smiles to his self mentally patting him self on the back. He finally had the answer he wanted)

David and Adam 05/06/2013

David walks down the hall whistling to his self, today had shaped in to one of his better ones. Michael was ready to get to work and it looked like he was about to hit Adam where it would hurt worst his wallet. He thought passing through the main entrance and up to is office. He slowed his pace a moment as he passed the activity in front of the elevator but he had more important things to take care of he grinned leaping up the steps two at a time.

          Adam paces back and forth inside David’s office speaking in hushed tones on his cell phone.

Adam: So that’s it? There’s nothing that connects her to this fiasco?

Lenka: Don’t worry everything has been taken care of she’s in the clear.

Adam: Yes, well we thought that before.

Lenka: I promise, you won’t have any more problems from your friend. You have my word.

Adam: If this doesn’t work believe me I will be holding you responsible!

Lenka: What else is new? Have a good day Mr. Chandler. (Adam glares down at his phone annoyed with his son in-laws arrogance smiling a begrudging smile of begrudging respect as he places it back in his pocket that his daughter had chosen a man)

David: Adam! (He sneers as he swaggers in to his office closing the door behind him) Glad you could make it.

Adam: Lets just get this over with shall we?

David: I want your decision on what we talked about the other day.

Adam: Ahh yes (His eyes rolling back as if thinking his harm crossed over his chest finger against his lip) you wanted me to invest in your poison pill factory.

David: Adam, is that anyway to speak to a man that could potentially make you millions? (he smiles smugly leaning back in his chair)

Adam: Not if I were in business with them but you and I have no dealing together what so ever and we never will!

David: So you’re willing to send your daughter to prison rather than fund my research? (He scowls snapping erect in his chair and leans forward searching Adams face)

Adam: Oh, my daughter won’t be going to prison and I’m not funding your research. (He grins enjoying the look of shock, then anger flow across David face)

David: Have you forgotten I have everything I need to put Colby away for years? (He stands coming around the desk to stand in front of him)

Adam: There is nothing you can do to hurt my family or me.

David: Have you forgotten a little file that have that says differently.

Adam: As I said David there is nothing you can do to my daughter.

David: There is plenty I can do Adam! Like turning in your little arsonist.

Adam: Go right ahead and try David my decision is final you’ll get nothing from me. (He retorts with a defiant glare)

David: I wouldn’t be so sure about that. (Meeting his glare with one of his own an challenging tilt to his chin)

Adam: I have never been more positive about anything in my life. You have a good day. (He snaps up his brief case and walks towards the door David calls after him)

David: I hope you’ll enjoy tomorrow morning’s paper!

Adam: I usually do! (Reaching for the door and pulling it open he smiles at the perplexed expression on David’s face)

David: You will regret this Adam! (He warns his frustration starting to show)

Adam: The only regret I have as far as you’re concerned is that I ever met you in the first place. (His smile rich with self confidence he leaves closing the door behind him. Adam had, had way too much confidence for a man whose beloved daughters life hung in the balance. What could he possible do? He had everything he needed double locked safely in his lab and that place was like Fort Knox. There was no way Adam or anyone else could have gotten in without his knowing but still, he was way too sure of himself. There was something going on and he’d figure out what it was if he couldn’t secure money from Adam with plan “A” there was always plan “B”.

David: You may have won this round Adam but you’re not out of the woods yet you just don’t know it.

Rego and Francessca 05/03/2013

Francessca: Rego I have to push! (She say between clenched teeth)

Rego: No! (He shouts at her looking panic stricken) Don’t do that.

Francessca: Are you crazy? (She growls trying to force her body to obey) My body says “push”!

Rego: Jamie! She says she has to push! (He wipes his brow on the shoulder of his shirt)

Jamie: Tell her not too yet. (He shouts back leaning towards the computer monitor)

Rego: I did!

Jamie: Okay can you see the baby’s head?

Rego: Like I know what the hell I’m looking at! (He sounding confused and terrified at the same time)

Jamie: Take the phone camera and show me. (He states calmly using his best doctor patient voice pleased when he hears some of the panic fade from Rego’s voice)

Rego: Okay, Jamie says don’t push yet he wants to see what’s going on first. (He picks up the cell phone pointing the small camera towards the birth canal)

Francessca: Tell Jamie I can tell him what’s going on I need to flipping push! (She grunts between breathes)

Rego: How’s that? (He says pointing the camera and turning it slightly)

Jamie: Stop right there! Perfect, okay there’s I don’t see the head yet. Prop the phone up so that the picture stays just like that. (Rego grabs a towel rolling into a log and leans the phone against it)

Rego: Is that okay?

Jamie: Great! Get the hand sanitizer in the toolbox and rub it on your hand up to your elbows.

Rego: Done!

Jamie: Now Tell Francessca to take deep breathes and push.

Rego: Okay sweetheart take deep breathes and push!

Francessca: Finally! (She grunts taking a deep breath and bearing down then stops panting)

Rego: One more time.

Francessca: I’m working on it. (She growls bearing down again)

Jamie: STOP! (He screams loudly jolting the both of them as he see’s the baby’s head breaching through the opening)

Rego: STOP! Stop!

Francessca: Okay! (She pants laying back for and taking deep breathes trying not do what her body demanded)

Jamie: Rego I need you to get in there and cradle your hands around the baby’s head and guide it out while she pushes.

Rego: Go ahead push. (Francessca pushes with all she has left feeling the babies head come through the rest of the body slide out with ease then a wailing cry. She looks over at Rego who’s face beams with sheer wonderment and pride as he stares down at the baby cradled in his arms. She smiling at the sight of Rego holding his child for the first time. It fills her with happiness as she realizes she hadn’t stolen this moment from him. Fate had stepped in and taken care of it for her she says a little prayer thanks for a healthy child and fates fickle finger)

Rego: It’s a boy! (He looks up at her his yes bright his smile wide then back at the child before reaching for the receiver) It’s a boy Jamie!

Jamie: A boy! (The sound of cheers making through the phone making both Francessca and Rego laugh) Mommy and baby are doing well. Do you want me to give her the phone?

Jamie: Before you do that I need you to cut the umbilical cord.

Rego: You want me to do what?

Jamie: Don’t worry I’ll take you through it. Didn’t I get you this far?

Rego: Okay go ahead.

I need you to tie the cord in two places about four inches from the navel I want you to take a clamp and press it tight.

Rego: Got it.

Jaime: Now measure about four inches and place the other clamp make sure they are both really tight.

Rego: Got it.

Jaime: Now I want you to take the scissors and cut in between them.

Rego: Done.

Jamie: Now give the baby to Francessca and tell her to start feeding him that will help her expel the placenta.

Rego: Here you go Mommy. Jamie says start feeding him right away.

Francessca: He there sweet heart here you go. (She smiles down at him offering him her breast. Rego watches a moment smiling to himself a strange melancholy cloud filled with rain droplets of “What if?  And “What could have been?” Falling over him)

Jamie: Rego! (He bellows in to the phone) Rego? (He screams again finally snapping Rego to attention)

Rego: Yeah here sorry. (He mumbles adjusting the phone under his chin)

Jamie: Do you see the placenta?

Rego: Yes, (He says almost gagging)

Jamie: I need you to put it in the zipper bag and seal it then put it in the toolkit okay?

Rego: Yeah gross but all right. (Face distorted in disgust he reaches for the bag opening it and placing the afterbirth inside then zipping it closed)

Jamie: Man you just hit a home run for the team! (Rego places the bag inside the toolkit and tries not to gag)

Rego: I feel more like I just swam the English Channel! (He says tossing a and towel over top of the bag)

Jamie: Thank you for taking such good care of my family. I owe you one.

Rego: Yeah you do and I’m going to hold you to it. (He smiles broadly proud of his self)

Jamie: If you look inside that toolkit the nurse was good enough to pack you a container of baby wipes and some clean scrubs.

Rego: Tell her I said thank you from the bottom of my heart! (he says looking down at his ruined shirt and pants)

Jamie: I will. (I will he grins the mental image of Rego making him laugh)

Rego: Here talk to your wife and take a look at your son while I get cleaned up. (He says handing the cell phone to Francessca and then begins to peel off his stained clothes listening to Francessca and Jamie “Ooo” and “Ahh” over their son and feeling a mild pang of jealousy this could have been his life)

Francessca: I told it was a boy! I very beautiful boy! (She leans her head down kissing is forehead) Ha! In your face! (She laughs, laughing harder when she hears him do the same)

Jamie: I admit it you win.

Francessca: I can’t wait for you to really see him and hold him! (Her voice softening as she looks down lovingly on her sleeping child)

Jamie: I can wait either I promise we’ll have you out soon. (Sounding just a little disappointed to her ears making her feel just a tinge guilty for her earlier thoughts. She looks down at the flashing battery signal then speaks quickly into the phone)

Francessca: Your battery light is flashing.

Jamie: Yeah, I never got around to charging it last night.

Francessca: It’s okay honey it worked when we needed it. I’ll see you as soon as we get out. I love you!

Jamie: I’ll be right here waiting I love you too! (Rego throws the last of the debris into the plastic bag then sit down on the floor beside Francessca and her sleeping son he closes his eyes and leans his weary head against the cool steel of the elevator car and lets out a long sigh)

Francessca: You okay? (She looks over at his still grinning face his eyes closed)

Rego: That was the scariest most wondrous thing I have ever done n my life!

Francessca; Well you done good! I’m proud of you. (She teases causing him to chuckle and peer at her through his one open eye)

Rego: Bet you never thought you would hear yourself say that?

Francessca: I’ve been proud of you before, just not recently. I’m glad you were here. I don’t know how we would have gotten through without you.

Rego: Thank you. How is he?

Francessca: He’s fine, sleeping away. (She smiles rocking the baby gently back and forth. Rego reaches over pulling the blanket aside to look at him again)

Rego: He was a very determined little fellow.

Francessca: He must like elevators. (They both laugh then Francessca yawns)

Rego: How are you doing? (He says leaning his head back against the wall)

Francessca: Tired, (She yawns again) can’t wait to get out of here.

Rego: We should be out of here soon. I’m sorry for all this.

Francessca: What are you sorry for? You had nothing to do with the elevator breaking. (She adjust the baby in her arms pulling the blanket tighter about him)

Rego: I’m sure this wasn’t the birth that you had imagined.

Francessca: Not exactly.

Rego: You probably wanted to give birth with the father of your child not some ex lover and certainly not me. (He says with a laugh)

Francessca: Things happened just the way they were supposed to. (She says gently making Rego’s eyes pop open his voice rich with sincerity)

Rego: When I said I was sorry I mean for everything that happened between you and I.

Francessca: That’s all over with Rego it’s in the past. (She yawns again)

Rego: I know. I just want you to know I really am sorry for everything I put you through.

Francessca: Thank you. (She smiles up at him the baby gurgling in her arms)

Rego: Can I hold him again?

Francessca: Sure. (She says handing him the baby) Watch his head.

Rego: He so tiny. (He say looking down at him in awe)

Francessca: Give him a month or so. (She yawns again stretching her arms above her head)

Rego: You know sitting here with you like this holding him, I can’t help but wonder if things had been different. (The melancholy feeling coming over him again)

Francessca: What do you mean? (She frowns looking at him confused)

Rego: If I hadn’t been such and idiot perhaps by this time it could have been you and I…(Their eye lock for a moment she watches the brief moment of sadness pass over them as feeling of guilt wash over her

Francessca: Rego there’s …(She starts just as the elevator jolts and begins to ascend)

Rego:  We’re moving! Do you feel that we’re getting out of here! (He yelps cutting off what she’d been about to say the moment between them broken)

Bob: Okay we’re good lock’er down! (He screams into the radio) Okay everyone stand back let the man get out and the doctors in!