Changes
Part 130
“Is it always this crazy around here?” Chris asked
“Bridget has been missing a long time, this news is good Chris. But right now
everyone is a little crazy. I want to help but I’m not sure if staying out of
the way at the moment is a better idea.”
“And that guy?” He gestured to Joey, who was sitting on a chair next to where
Michael was standing, keying frantically into a laptop. “I think I remember
him, he’s Mike’s brother right?”
Joey had disrupted their dinner party with the news that he had located where
Bridget had made the phone call. From that moment on it had turned to chaos.
“Joey.” She said with distaste.
“I take it you’re not friends with him?” Chris looked at his companion.
“It’s a long story and one I’d rather not go into right now.”
“I remember he was always in trouble.” Chris said thoughtfully. “At least as a kid.”
“Nothing’s changed.”
“You think he would?” Chris asked her.
“There’s nothing I wouldn’t put past him, nothing.”
Michael looked over at Brooke and spoke into the cell phone. “Hold on, let me
check.” He then spoke into the regular phone. “Hang on, I’m checking something
out.” He turned to his wife. “Any luck?”
“Nothing.” She sighed. “Every single flight tonight is booked, I can get seats
tomorrow but we can’t wait that long.”
“Eric said the Forrester jet is in
“What are we going to do?” She was becoming desperate.
“I got them doing a check on the plane Brooke, they did some major damage when
they seized it but the guys say that the engine is in good working order. I’m
having them fuel it up. I’m going to fly us there.”
“Are you sure? It’s been a while.” Brooke nervously asked him.
“I’m sure.” He smiled at her. “Believe me, I haven’t forgotten anything. I know
it would have been better if I didn’t have to fly, right now my nerves are a
mess with this, but I can handle it, that’s a promise.”
Brooke smiled at him and returned to the phone. “No, no, we’ll make other arrangements, just keep trying just in case. Okay, thanks.”
She put down the phone and walked closer to her husband. She put her arm around
his waist and leaned into his embrace.
“Great, that’s great, now get me a flight plan for
“Here.” She grabbed the phone from him. “Eric, Ridge and
“Eric? Yeah, it’s me. Yes, I know he’s done a lot of bad things but this time I
trust him. He put himself on the line for this. I’ve got my detectives on that
right now. They said they’d have an address for us by the time we land,
probably even before.”
“You don’t need them Mike.” Joey got up came over with a piece of paper he had
just scribbled on and handed it to him. “I got it off the net, did that Google
thing. I don’t know why we didn’t think of that sooner. I got the Mapquest thing too but you might be better off getting
directions once you get there. I did a printout, it should be in your office
right now.”
“Eric.” Michael was smiling. “We have the address. You just be ready, we’re
coming to get you.” He hung up the phone then turned to Joey. “Thanks.”
“I want her back too Mike.” Joey said softly.
“Call your Mom.” Michael instructed Brooke. “We need her to come and stay with
Bethany.”
“Oh no.” Brooke gasped. “Michael she’s not there, she left to go visit one of
her college friends today.”
“No problem, I’ll get Annie.” Michael picked up his cell and punched a number.
“It’ll be fine Sweetheart.” He listened to the ringing on the other end. “Come
on Annie, pick up, pick up.”
“Mike, Annie was talking about a business trip to
“Shit, you’re right.” He disconnected the call. “Now what?”
He asked Brooke.
“I can stay with her.” Joey volunteered.
“You?” Michael gave him a sarcastic laugh. “I don’t
think I’d leave Marmalade with you.”
“Thank you Joey, but you’re really not used to being around a baby, let alone
one as small as
“Brooke I can stay with her.”
“Your children might need you and I don’t want you to feel obligated.” Brooke
answered. “Amber and Rick are still out, I don’t know when they’ll be back.”
“So what do you want to do?” Michael asked Brooke.
“Just bring her home to me Michael, you and Eric find her and bring her home to
me.” She held onto him.
“That might be for the best anyway.”
“You think she’d run from me or resent me?” Brooke asked. She looked up at
Michael, hoping he would come to her rescue.
“Bridget knows you love her.” He assured her.
“But she’s also obviously embarrassed by what she’s done and if she doesn’t
have to face you right away.”
“Brooke?” Michael looked at her. “You gotta decide, we gotta get going one way or
another.”
Brooke bit on her cuticle as she thought about it. Suddenly the doorbell rang
and they all turned.
“I’ll get it.” Chris volunteered, needing to do something. He walked to the
door and opened it. A beautiful redhead pushed past him into the house. “Well?
What happened Sugar?” She asked as she approached Joey.
“Thank God you’re okay.” He pulled her into his arms and seemed to breathe in
her scent. He kissed her softly and quickly. He let her out of the embrace but
held tightly onto her hand. This move didn’t go unnoticed. Brooke raised her
eyebrows in wonder and Michael frowned deeply.
“I’m fine, I’m fine.” She laughed. “He may think he’s Mr. Tough Guy but he’s
got nothin’ on Old Ade.”
She gave him another hug and let go. “So I take it you got what you needed? You
didn’t leave too much of a message and you mumbled Sugar.”
“I didn’t know if he could hear and I didn’t want him to recognize my voice or
know what was going on, I figured if I just said come here you would.”
“Sooooooooooo? Are ya gonna tell me or what?” She pressed.
“Joey got the number and he tracked down the address.” Michael answered. “I’m
on my way to
“Oh that’s great.” Adrienne grinned. She walked over to Brooke and gave her a
hug. “I’m so happy for you.”
“Thank you.” Brooke sighed and hugged her back.
“Isn’t that Adrienne?” Chris asked
“Yes.”
“Mike’s ex.” Chris laughed.
“Yes.”
“Hugging his current wife?” Chris laughed. “Only Mike, only Mike, damn that man
has something over women.”
“Adrienne, what did you have to do with all of this?” Brooke asked her as
Michael looked on, very interested in the answer.
“I just made sure that Blake was kept busy while Joey did his thing.” She
explained.
“Blake? You’re still working with Blake?”
“Hold it Taylor, Joey isn’t working for Blake any longer.” Michael spoke up for
his brother.
“No, no, I just went over there to try and trace the phone call.” Joey
explained. “But I needed to be sure Blake wasn’t around. I knew his patterns
and Ade agreed to go to the bar he hangs out in and
try to grab his attention.”
“Ade?” Michael frowned.
“Oh for God’s sake Mike, I wasn’t prostituting myself,
I just got the guy to buy me a drink and got him interested in a damn
conversation. Men!” She threw up her arms.
“I doubt talking was on his mind. He’s dangerous Adrienne, Joey you knew that,
why would you put her in danger?” Brooke looked from Ade
to Joey.
“I wasn’t in danger.” Adrienne assured her. “In fact if I didn’t know what I
knew about him I’d think he was quite charming.” She looked at the frowns on
Brooke, Michael,
“I’m sorry but I have a real problem with this man still being involved with
Blake and any of this. And why would you know he was still wired if you didn’t
still work for him and.”
“He’s not
“All the wires? He has ALL the wires?”
Joey sheepishly looked down, not answering.
“Joe?” Michael frowned at his brother. Joey looked at
“I didn’t have time, Bridget came first.” Joey started.
“But?” Michael challenged.
“I thought about taking them all out, but I stopped for two reasons.” Joey
answered.
“And that was?”
“Look, I know you’re mad, but hear me out please.”
“I don’t have to listen to a single thing you say. I don’t know why you aren’t
behind bars anyway!”
Joey turned to Michael, hoping he would see reason. “I thought I might need it
again, if something falls through with Bridget I thought I might have to go
back to see if I could find anything else.”
“But if you knew that he was still wired to
“If he tore that out Blake would know he was there Brooke and he could never go
back, he did the right thing.” Michael explained.
“Easy for you to say!”
“Uh, yeah, I think he does.” Joey told her. “But I don’t think Blake bothers
with it unless he sees Ridge come over. He wants to catch Ridge with Brooke so
he can tell you and get you back. Don’t you see
“As if you could.” She answered, but her tone was
softer with far less anger.
“Okay, look, this is something we all need to talk about, but not now.” Michael
addressed the room. “Brooke, Sweetheart if you’re coming let’s go and if not, I
have to go.”
“Bring her home to us.” Brooke put her arms around him and kissed him. “I love
you.”
“I’m sorry Chris.” Michael addressed his friend. “You must think we’re all
insane and I’m sure you’re reconsidering your decision, but please wait till I
get home and we can talk and I think I can alleviate all your fears.”
“Mike, I couldn’t walk away from this if I wanted to.” Chris laughed. “Hell, I
like drama, and besides, I know we’ll be perfect partners. You go get your kid, I’ll be here when you get back. In fact, I’ll probably
go over there and check out the scene and get to know the staff. That way we’ll be ready to rock when you get back.”
“Thanks Chris.” Michael smiled. “I’m outta
here.” He put his hand on the door when it flung open. “Whoa!” Michael quickly
stepped back as Storm and Colin flew in.
“We know where she is! We know where Bridget is!” Storm announced.
Stephanie needed to get away, she wasn’t going to sit in the house and think
about Brooke and her baby one more second, she needed to just do something for
herself so she made the decision and headed to the restaurant where she hoped
she would find him. And she had, the minute she walked inside the darkened bar
she saw him sitting there, a drink in front of him, having a heated
conversation with someone on his cell phone.
“Huh? How? Joe, did you call them?” Michael asked his brother.
“No, I came straight here.” Joey answered.
“What does Joey have to do with this?” Colin asked.
“Joey found her.” Michael explained. “I was just on my way to pick up Eric and
go get her.”
“Hold it, hold it, where do you think she is?” Storm
asked them.
“
“I got a call from someone from my old office.” Storm explained. “She and a
friend saw her at a coffee shop. She was the waitress. They knew that they
recognized her but they didn’t know from where. Then it hit them and they
remembered we had told them Bridget was missing. So Bridget called you?” He
asked.
“Yeah, but from a residential address, not a coffee shop.”
Michael explained. “So that means we know where she lives and where she works,
this is great. Write down the address so we can go to both places.” Michael was
impatient to leave.
“I think we should come with you.” Colin told him. “We know the town, it would
make it easier. I can call and have a car waiting for us, Storm you call and
get us on the flight with them.”
“No flights, Michael is flying.” Brooke told them.
“You got room for us?” Colin asked. “We know the city, we can find the
addresses a lot faster than you will and if we have to go somewhere else we
would probably know that too.”
“Michael? Can you take them?” Brooke asked hopefully.
“Well if you’re not going it would only be Eric and me so sure, I have room,
but are you positive Brooke?”
“Just go.” She answered. “I want her home.”
“We’ll bring her home.” Storm promised.
“I don’t like it one bit. You’re not going to tell me Janet Wells okayed letting that child be with two homosexuals! And the fact that one of them is related to Copeland’s wife on top
of it? No, we have to put a stop to it! Well before it happens it has to
end.” Keith Ehlers spoke heatedly into his cell phone. “Personal? Damn right
it’s personal! What? No, I would rather not go into it and it’s immaterial.
Just make sure that man doesn’t ever get control of this child. No, no, I can’t
do anything about the one he spawned. Just do what you have to do. That little
boy needs to be part of a real family, a man and a woman, not two men who are
only doing it to let that abuser get at him! Yes, I do care about the boy. My
heart went out to him at the hospital. What? No. Well I don’t care if you or
anyone else think he saved his life, he’s a dangerous
man and he doesn’t belong with children. And I want you to find that girl too.
You know, that girl, Debra’s daughter’s friend, his stepdaughter. I want her to
testify for us. He abused her and he’ll abuse Jason too. I know it.” He frowned
and turned towards the door. “I have to go, just do it and let me know what
progress you’ve made.” He disconnected his call and forced a smile onto his
face as the woman came up to the barstool he sat on.
“Hello Keith.” She smiled as she took the empty stool next to him.
“Stephanie.” He stood up quickly as she seated herself. “You don’t know how
much you’ve been on my mind lately.”
“And you on mine. You should have called me.” She chastised in a gentle way.
“You’re right, and I won’t make that mistake again. May I get you a drink? Can
you stay?”
“Yes and yes.” She smiled at him, her eyes twinkling.
“Can I have another of these Jake?” He called to the bartender. “Have you
eaten?” He asked Stephanie.
“Actually no, I haven’t.” She answered.
“Good, I haven’t either.” He stood up and snapped his fingers at the maitre'd. “
“Very good Dr. Ehlers.” The man answered. He turned his attention to his staff
to make sure the table was readied.
“You certainly have a lot of clout here.” Stephanie noted.
“As I’m sure you do at your favorite haunts.” Keith smiled.
“Your call, it seemed serious.” Stephanie referred to the call he had ended
when she had sat down.
“Just a pesky situation that I have to control. Nothing to disturb our evening.” He turned as the bartender
brought another martini and placed it before Stephanie. “Thank you Jake, can
you have the drinks sent to our table?”
“Of course.” Jake took both drinks and walked away.
“Shall we?” Keith took Stephanie’s arm.
Eric
watched nervously as Michael drummed the fingers of one hand, softly hummed and
steered the plane with his other hand. “Shouldn’t you be using both hands?” He
couldn’t help from voicing his dismay.
“Huh? Oh.” Michael brought his errant hand to the controls. “Better?”
“Much.” Eric answered without much conviction.
“I’m not used to someone watching my every move Eric, are you a pilot?” Michael
asked him.
“No.” Eric answered with a frown.
“Then maybe you should leave the flying to someone who is.”
“You didn’t seem to be paying much attention.” Eric replied, not wanting to
further aggravate the man.
“I am, believe me, I am. I just have a lot on my mind right now.”
“Just concentrate on getting us there. You won’t help Bridget if you kill us.”
“Calm down Eric, Mike knows what he’s doing.” Storm spoke up from behind them.
“You didn’t tell me about the phone call Michael. What did my little girl tell
you? Why did she leave?” Eric pressed.
“She didn’t tell us anything, just that she was safe and not to worry. She
missed us.” Michael sighed.
“You must have some idea of what made her run from you.” Eric frowned.
“Run from us? From me? What are you accusing me of Eric?”
“When she comes home I think it would be best if she stayed with me. Apparently
the environment you and Brooke supply isn’t a stable home.”
“Excuse me?” Michael angrily turned to face Eric. “Our home isn’t stable? And
you’re proposing she come to stay with you, your witch of an estranged wife and
the bastard child of some lunatic who stalked your son and his wife? Yeah right.” He turned away in disgust, then
quickly turned back. “Bridget stays where she belongs. With
us.”
“We’ll see about that. I have a very good lawyer at home.” Eric wasn’t
going to back down.
“I got a couple right behind you.” Michael shot back.
“Come on guys, this isn’t getting us anywhere, we all want the same thing,
Bridget home, safe and sound.” Colin reminded them.
“Besides, she’ll be eighteen soon Eric, the choice will be hers then, even if
the choice is not to come home at all.” Storm added.
“Well she’s not eighteen yet and she belongs with her family!” Eric shouted.
“We are her family.” Michael said softly.
“Brooke is, you aren’t. Bridget needs to be somewhere
that she is loved.” Eric insisted.
“Are you saying that I don’t love her? Are you? Because nothing could be
further from the truth! I love her like she was my own!”
“But she’s not.” Eric answered quickly. “She’s my daughter and you are not
going to make decisions regarding her welfare, look what that’s done to her.”
“You son of a…”
“Mike! Time out!” Storm shouted. “Let’s try and calm
this down. We all want the same thing and we all love Bridget. Let’s not let
our emotions make us say things that we don’t mean.”
“Our only concern right now has to be finding Bridget and getting her home.”
Colin added.
“You’re right.” Michael reluctantly agreed. “Sorry Eric.”
“We’ll have time to discuss this later.” Eric sat back. “Just concentrate in
getting us there in one piece.”
Chris got up and walked into the kitchen.
“I think just having company is keeping Brooke’s mind off of the situation a
little bit. I’m glad you stayed.”
“I wonder if they found her yet.” Chris opened the refrigerator and took out a
bottle of milk.
“I wonder too.”
“You looked that way too.” Chris surmised.
“My reasons are different. It’s Mike’s brother.”
“From what I was able to gleam from the conversation he had some kind of
surveillance on you?”
“He was working for my ex-husband, but the things they did went beyond what anyone
would call surveillance. I’d really rather not talk about it. I just can’t
stand being in the same room with him.”
“But you are.” Chris said softly.
“For Brooke, she needs me. Personally I wish he’d just leave. He’s not doing
anything useful anyway.”
“Maybe just being family is helping Brooke.” He suggested.
“I’m not so sure I’d agree with that.”
“You know Keith, before I met you I can’t think of the last time I’ve danced
and yet since you’ve come into my life it seems a regular occurrence.”
Stephanie smiled as he held her closer in his arms.
“A woman like you should be taken dancing, she should be wined and dined and
cherished.” He returned her smile. “And I’m very happy to be the man to bring
this back into your life.”
“You can’t even begin to imagine how much I needed this. In fact I don’t even
think I knew myself.”
“You look like you’ve had a rough day.” Keith agreed.
“Words cannot describe it.” Stephanie shook her head. “Keith, can we sit, I’m
suddenly very tired.”
“Even better, let’s go, I’d love to take you to my house and get you a nice
brandy, we can listen to some soft music and just talk if you’d like. In fact
if you’d like, I have a guest room, perhaps you’d just like an entire night
without your stress.”
“That’s so tempting.” She sighed.
“Then allow yourself to be tempted, in fact I may even try to tempt you NOT to
stay in the guest room.” He leaned in and stole a kiss.
“Here you go Brooke, some nice hot coffee.” Chris offered with a smile. He went
to hand her a steamy mug. “Can I get you some cream or sugar?”
“Thank you Chris but I can’t. I have to think of
“I’ll make you some decaf.” He quickly offered.
“Oh please don’t go to any trouble.” Brooke touched his arm.
“It’s no trouble at all.” He turned to Adrienne. “Would you like this one?”
“I’d love it.” She walked over and took the mug from him.
“Adrienne, Chris, all of you, it’s okay if you want to
go home, I’m alright alone.” Brooke was feeling guilty for the attention
everyone was paying her.
“Don’t be silly Brooke, we’re all concerned about
Bridget.” Adrienne gave her a hug.
“I just wish Michael would call.” Brooke looked at her watch for what must have
been the twentieth time at least. “They have to be there by now.”
“He’ll call.” Joey tried to assure her.
“Brooke.”
“Oh
“Here you go.” She handed it to her. “I think I made it to your liking.” She
smiled as Brooke took a sip.
“It’s perfect.” Brooke answered. “I can’t thank you all enough.
“Stephanie isn’t home but Katherine is with them and Ridge is too, though he
did want to come here.”
“He can come when Bridget gets home.” Brooke smiled. “I know he’ll want to see
her.”
“Yes he will.” She walked over and sat down next to Chris on the couch. Brooke
walked behind Joey and watched as he keyed into the laptop.
“Is she okay?” Chris asked
“Brooke is doing just fine. She’s a lot stronger now, since she met Michael.”
“And before?” He asked.
“A different woman, not nearly so secure and strong.”
“I take it you two have been friends a long time.” Chris observed to
“You wouldn’t believe it if I told you. Brooke and I go way back, but as
enemies. No.” She corrected herself. “No, not enemies, more like rivals.”
“You and Mike?” Chris raised his eyebrow.
“Brooke and Ridge.” She answered. “And me and Ridge,
and Brooke and Ridge and me and Ridge and.” She laughed again.
“Wow, can’t wait to meet this guy.” He chuckled. “But you’re estranged now.” He
remembered from the earlier conversation.
“Yes, and this time it’s for good.”
“And he didn’t end up with either of you, poor
“I’d never have believed that either.”
“How long have you been apart?” He asked her.
“Physically we aren’t exactly apart.” She answered. Chris frowned as he moved a
little further from her on the couch.
“I just assumed. You know, from our conversation.”
“We aren’t sharing a bed or anything else for that matter, he’s only back
because the children are having a rough time. We’ve all been through a bit of a
nightmare and I wanted to do as little damage to them as I could. I think that
was really my motivation in trying again in the first place.”
“Take it from experience, you can’t fool kids and keeping an unhealthy marriage
together for them just won’t work.” Chris picked up his mug and took a sip.
“I know you’re right. I’m trying to let them see that this isn’t a marriage,
just that both Mommy and Daddy love them and that we’re both there for them.”
“It still must be confusing to them.” He looked into her eyes. “And maybe to
you and your husband too.”
“My only comfort is knowing that Ridge will always be
a good father even if he could never be a good husband.”
“What are you looking for?” Brooke asked Joey. She stood behind him as he keyed
furiously into the laptop.
“Seeing what I can find out about a friend of mine who disappeared.” He
answered.
“Oh.” Brooke thought this had something to do with Bridget and since it didn’t
she started to walk away.
“He might know the guy.” Joey stopped her.
“The man that Bridget was, was, with?” She said in a whisper.
“Yeah, but since the fire I haven’t been able to track him down. I’m searching
for some other people who might know him and might lead me to him.” Joey
explained. “Just in case, you know?”
“You mean in case she sees them and runs again?” Brooke sighed.
“Something like that.” He answered. “Probably not even
necessary, but I don’t want to leave a stone uncovered. I just want you to know
how sorry I am for everything. I will never let you down again.”
“I’ve already forgiven you Joey.” She gently touched his shoulders.
“Mike hasn’t.” He replied as he keyed.
“He’s stubborn, but he will, I know he will.” Brooke leaned down and hugged
him. “He does love you.”
“I don’t blame him for hating me. I wouldn’t blame you either.” Joey replied.
“I know I’m a shit.”
“Oh stop, you’re not and I know you’re sorry. We need to forgive and move
forward. You’re family and family sticks together.”
“That’s what I told him.” Adrienne walked over. “Just give Mike some time to
calm down and he’ll be fine. He loves you sugar, even if right now he wants to
punch you out.” She laughed and ruffled his hair. Joey reached up and tenderly
took her hand and squeezed it. Brooke squinted but said nothing as she took in
the silent exchange. She opened her mouth, about to question them when the
phone rang. She looked down at the caller ID.
“It’s Michael!” She grabbed the phone. “Michael! Honey can I
talk to her?” She was shaking.
“We haven’t found her yet.” He said with a sad sigh.
“Oh no, why? Michael why? What happened? Can’t you
find the address? We have to find her, she was there, we know she was there.”
“We went to the coffee shop first.” He spoke, his
voice was tired and defeated. “It’s her day off and they wouldn’t tell us
anything.”
“But why? Didn’t you tell them she’s our child?”
Brooke couldn’t hold back the tears.
“Sweetheart, they don’t seem to trust us, they’re protecting her. But don’t worry, we’ll be back there tomorrow before her shift starts.
Eric got us hotel rooms, though I doubt I’ll use it except to maybe shower if
we’re here that long.”
“What about the place she called us from?” Brooke asked. “Maybe she’s living there.”
“No one was home. We tried a few times. Finally some girl showed up to feed the
guy’s cat, he’s away. She doesn’t know who Bridget is.”
“She’s lying.” Brooke sobbed.
“I don’t think so, she seemed nice, concerned. She took my cell number and said
when her friend Jacob got home she’d get in touch with me. He works at the
coffee house so he’s probably friends with Bridget.”
“I was so sure.” Brooke sat down and wiped her eyes with the back of her
sleeve.
“Don’t give up, we certainly haven’t. I bet we find her tomorrow, she is due at
work, they told us that much.”
“But not her address?” Brooke sadly queried.
“But listen to this.” He sounded a little happier. “She’s thinking about us
Brooke, she is.”
“They told you that?” She asked.
“They told me her name when I showed them her photo.”
“We know her name.” Brooke sighed loudly.
“She’s going by an alias.” Michael explained.
“Oh wonderful.” She said with sarcasm.
“She’s calling herself Logan. Logan Michaels.”
“Oh Michael, she does love us, she does miss us.”
“You didn’t really doubt that did you?” He asked.
“Where are you now?” She asked without answering him.
“In the rental car, in front of the house.” He
laughed. “I think I’ll be staying here tonight.”
“I should be telling you not to, but.” She stopped.
“I’ll sleep when we get home. Don’t worry about
“And Eric? Storm? Colin? Where are they?”
“At the hotel right now. Someone will be here soon and someone will watch the
coffeehouse, we have it all covered. Eric’s making some calls, Storm and Colin
are checking with some people they know about places she might be staying, we
know she didn’t have much money with her so her choices are limited.”
“Could she be, oh Michael could she be living with that man?”
Brooke gasped.
“It’s possible, but his friend didn’t know her and I think she would have.”
“How did it come to this? My baby living with some pervert!”
“Brooke, as far as I’ve been able to see he’s not that at all. He’s a
kid himself, early twenties, hard working, the manager
of the place. Well respected. Everyone has said he’s nice.”
“If he’s hurt my baby!” Brooke growled.
“Okay Mama Bear.” Michael teased. “I’ll let you get first shot. But seriously,
I have to give him a chance, maybe he can help us.”
“And you’re sure someone is watching the shop?” Brooke asked. “What if she goes
there and they tell her you were looking for her and she runs?”
“I think that Storm is going to go back later, right now it’s the middle of the
shift so he didn’t expect her to come in.”
“And Eric?” Brooke asked.
“I imagine that he’ll be the one to come spot me, but I’m not going anywhere
Brooke, not till I have our girl back.”
“I love you Michael, I love you so much.”
“Yeah, well I’m kinda fond of you too.” He said with
a smile in his voice. “Brooke, I love her too, I’m not going to stop until I
find her and get her home to you.”
“I know.” She said softly.
“So how are things there? How’s
“Sleeping right now, but she should be hungry soon. She misses her daddy too.”
“And I miss her, and her mom. Give her a kiss for
“And me?” Brooke laughed.
“When Bridget and I get home you’ll get one in person.”
“I’m looking forward to that almost as much as seeing Bridget.” Brooke
answered. “Wait, that didn’t come out right. You do know what I mean don’t
you?”
“Bridget is the first priority to all of us Brooke.” He acknowledged. “And I
know that’s all you meant by it. Don’t worry, soon everything will be back to
normal for all of us and we can pick up where we left off before.”
“It seems like a million years ago that
“And is
“Taylor and Chris and Adrienne and Joey.” She
answered. “They’ve all been so good to me.”
“I’m glad you’re not alone, but I don’t want you thinking you have to entertain
them or anything.”
“They’ve been taking care of me, I promise.” Brooke assured him. “They cleaned
up and made coffee and well, they’re all being wonderful.”
“Have you spoken to Rick or your mother yet?”
“Yes, I finally got through to Rick. He and Amber went to see Amber’s mother,
they’ll be home tomorrow and Mom called me a while ago, I told her not to cut
her visit short until I had more details but she wants to come anyway.”
“I can understand that, I just don’t want to overwhelm Bridget either, but she
is her grandmother. Hey, do me a favor and ask Joey to keep trying Annie, I
just think she should know too.”
“Joey’s been trying to help us by finding a friend who might know that man.
He’s really coming through for us Michael.”
“I uh, we can talk about him once I’m home.”
“He loves you and I know you love him.” Brooke insisted.
“Hey, I better keep the line clear in case Eric or Storm wants me. I’ll call
you as soon as I know anything more.”
“You need to get past it, you need to forgive.”
“I’ve forgiven him, but I just. We can talk about this some other time.”
“Alright.” Brooke agreed. “I love you Michael.”
“I love you too sweetheart.”
“Thank you.” Stephanie accepted the snifter of brandy from Keith and sat down
on the large, plush couch. “You have a lovely home.”
Keith put his own snifter down on the end table. “Can I get you something more
to eat?”
“After that dinner and the crepes?” Stephanie laughed. “I won’t fit through the
door to get out.”
“Nonsense.” He responded and sat down. “It’s so nice to have you here. This
home needs the presence of a lovely woman like you.”
“Did you live here with your wife?” Stephanie asked him.
“No, my wife has been gone a long time, but my daughter lived here with me.” He
sadly related.
“And where does she live now?” Stephanie asked.
“She doesn’t.” His eyes went from sad to cold.
“Keith?” Stephanie looked at him. “Oh Keith, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to bring
sad memories. If you don’t want to talk about it.” She
took his hand and squeezed it.
“I haven’t spoken to anyone about Jessie in a long time. She was a beautiful
girl, just beautiful.” He got up, walked to the mantle and returned with a
framed photo and handed it to Stephanie. “This was the last photo I ever had of
her.”
“She was so young. Was she sick Keith?”
“She was killed in a car accident, one that never should have happened, she never should have been there, never.” He shook
his head.
“I’m so sorry.” Stephanie saw so much pain on his face, but a lot of anger too.
“He’ll pay, he’ll pay for what he did to her.”
“Who? Someone hit her on purpose?” Stephanie asked in concern.
“No, but because of him she left home, she ran off to rid herself of the
mistake of bringing him into her life and she, she, she never came home.”
“It sounds like your family had as many problems as mine, and it sounds like
they were caused by someone who never should have pushed their way in like
mine.”
“We have much in common.” Keith picked up his brandy and took a gulp. “But
let’s not talk about that now, let’s enjoy what we’ve found in each other.”
“I’d like that.” She smiled.
“Will you stay tonight?” He asked. “I’d like you to.”
“I’d like that too.” She smiled and inched closer to him and put her head on
his shoulder.
Joey yawned and stretched then sat down on the couch. “I hated to leave her
like that.” He turned to face Adrienne as she put her keys down.
“She needs to sleep sugar and if we were there she wouldn’t even try.” She
dropped her purse on an end table. “And speaking of sleep.”
She yawned herself.
“Yeah, I guess we better both try to get some. I want to go back over in the
morning and see if I can help.”
“Maybe we won’t have to, maybe Mike and Bridget will be back.” Adrienne smiled
at him. “Okay Joe, I’ll see you in the morning.” She started towards her
bedroom.
“Want company?” Joey asked with a grin.
“Sorry sugar, but I’m not crossing that line.” She shook her head.
“There’s no line to cross Ade and you know it. Deny
it all you want but there is something between us and neither one of us is ever
going to be satisfied until we see where it leads.”
“The I guess not being satisfied is a chance I’m gonna have to take.” She said sadly. “Night
babe.” She blew him a kiss and went into her bedroom, closing the door
behind her.
“Doc? Is
she home? Did they find her?” Ridge jumped from the couch as
“No, not yet.” She answered.
“Then why are you home? Is
“Brooke needs to rest and she won’t do that if she thinks she has to entertain
us. Chris and I left after Adrienne and Joey did.”
“Joey? That asshole was there?” Ridge growled.
“Apparently he helped find her, but I don’t want to go into it now, I’m just
getting over my own anger.”
“Well you might have but I haven’t. The jerk should be in jail.” He practically
spit the words.
“He should, but he isn’t and he’s Mike’s brother and they accept him. At this
point we have to make our own decisions if we can continue to stay in their
life if he’s in it too. I’ve thought about it and there is no way that I’m
going to allow anyone else to ever make me lose someone I love again so I’m in
for the duration.”
“I guess I can go along with that.” Ridge said reluctantly. “We can’t abandon
“You and I aren’t a we Ridge.” She sighed.
“Come on Doc, we need to get past this, we need to work together.”
“I need to go to bed, I want to go back over in the
morning if Brooke needs me.” She refused to play his game.
“We can go together.”
“We’ll see, I have to call her and then talk to Chris before I do anything, we’re going over there together. Goodnight Ridge.”
“Hey Doc.” He stopped her.
“What?” She turned to face him.
“Who is Chris? I don’t think I’ve ever heard of her. How come
you have to call her?”
“Just a friend of Mike’s,” She said absently. “I think that they’re
going to be partners. Chris is new in town and very concerned about Mike and
Brooke as we all are. I said that I’d be in touch when I knew anything new. Goodnight Ridge.” She said once more as she went up the
stairs.
Michael was having a hard time keeping his eyes open, but he was determined to
stay all night if need be. He would wait for this man to return, hopefully with
Bridget. He took a sip of his coffee, wincing at the cold temperature. He
looked down at his watch. “Come on Eric, just come for a bit so I can go pee
and get some more coffee.” He thought about calling Brooke again, he missed
her, wanted to hear her voice, but he knew he’d never forgive himself if she
had finally fallen asleep and he woke her. “I’ll wait, he’ll be here soon.” He
shifted to get more comfortable and then settled in for the wait.
Joey came out of the shower, a towel wrapped around his waist and experiencing
hunger pangs. “When did I eat anyway?” He asked himself and the answer was not
since breakfast. “Well I need something.” He told himself. He walked into the
kitchen and opened up the refrigerator. “Yogurt? Nah.” He started pushing things around, moving them and
checking everything. He grabbed an apple, sniffed it and put it back. “Nothing
left over at all?” He moaned and then opened the meat drawer. “Cold cuts?” He wondered aloud.
Tossing and turning Adrienne finally got up. She had more on her mind than just
Bridget tonight. Joey’s comments had gotten to her. She was feeling far from
sisterly about him. She hadn’t wanted a man this badly since the early days
with Michael. “No, this is wrong, just wrong.” She grabbed her robe from the
back of her closet door and put it on. “I need some tea.” She yawned. “I need
to relax and just forget about what I’m feeling, that’s what I need.” She
laughed and slowly opened the door. Not wanting to wake Joey she didn’t turn on
the lights as she headed towards the kitchen.
“Ice cream, yeah, that’ll do.” Joey reached for the container in the freezer
but it was stuck. “Don’t you EVER defrost Ade?” He
chuckled and yanked at the pint of Hagan Daz. He lost
his grip on his towel and it fell to the floor, but his hunger was more
important to him than his modestly. He grabbed a spoon and took a taste, the
refrigerator door illuminating his torso. “Good stuff.” He said as he swallowed
a large mouthful. “Hmmmm, wonder if you have any
whipped cream?”
Adrienne stopped, doing a double take. She forced herself to remain silent and
not to move but she couldn’t control what was in front of her eyes. He was
sexier than she had even imagined and hung, God he was hung. She felt a heat
growing through her body and a desire that burned in her center. “Oh God.” She whispered to herself. She watched him squirt
whipped cream onto his ice cream. He then squirted some from the can right into
his mouth. He put it back and then licked a bit more off of his spoon. Adrienne
leaned back as she imagined many other places he could put his tongue. She
moaned again and stepped back, she couldn’t let him see her or hear her. She
was so hot, burning with desire. She had come to find something to help her
relax and now she was so wired she knew she’d not get another second of sleep.
She almost lost it when he bent down for the towel. Adrienne always appreciated
a nice ass, and Joey’s put just about every one she had ever seen to shame.
Disappointment set in when he covered himself and then continued to eat his ice
cream. A part of her yearned to call out his name, to take him into her arms,
into her body and yet the sensible part of her said no. She felt like one of
those old cartoons where the angel was on one shoulder encouraging her to do
right, while the cute little devil was on the other, tempting her to give in.
The devil was starting to win her over as she watched him. Almost as if they
were not even a part of her one of her hands slipped inside her robe, caressing
her breast feeling the nipple harden and grow and even more shocking was that
her other hand had found the delta between her legs where she was so hot and so
wet and so very ready. Adrienne threw back her head and imagined it was Joey as
her fingers stroked, circled and dipped inside. Her soft moan brought her back
and she pulled both hands away and covered her mouth, silently praying that
Joey hadn’t heard her, or was it the opposite she yearned for?
Stephanie opened her eyes and smiled at Keith. She hadn’t expected this to
happen, she hadn’t expected to go this far, but he was so handsome and so
charming and when he had kissed her it had been unlike anything that she had
shared with Eric in so very long. She reached over and took his hand. “That was
lovely.” She smiled again. “Unexpected, but just lovely.”
“I knew a woman as beautiful as you would be as passionate as I
imagined.” He reached down and ran his hand up and down her bare leg. “But I’m
not sure that ‘lovely’ is quite the way to describe what just happened.”
“It wasn’t meant to demean it Keith, it was truly a
lovely experience for me.” She smiled again.
“One you’d write off as an experience or one that you’d be inclined to repeat.”
He asked.
“Goodness Keith, I’m not a young woman anymore, I don’t know if I have the
stamina for another round tonight.”
“But in the morning?” He suggested with a raised eyebrow.
“I believe I could be persuaded.” She laughed.
“You’re a wonderful lover, you knew just how to touch me, just how to kiss me.”
He moved closer to her.
“I’m afraid you must be as lacking in the lover department as I am.” She
laughed again. “I’ve spent most of my life in a monogamous relationship with my
husband. My only other experiences were with one other man prior to my
marriage, and only two others since. And to be honest with you, Eric and I
haven’t been lovers in a very long time either.”
“I’ve been with three women since my wife died.” Keith admitted. “Not many in
this day and age. But what I felt with them, it just wasn’t like this.”
“We’re good together.” She agreed.
“I feel like a new man.” He pulled her into his arms. “And I have you to thank
for it.”
Stephanie leaned in to kiss him when the phone rang. She looked at him and
laughed. “Such timing.”
“I’ll let the machine get it.” He told her.
“No Keith, you’re a doctor, it could be an emergency, please go ahead.”
He sighed but picked up the phone. “Hello.” He said gruffly. “Well it’s late
and a bad time at that. What is it? And? No I don’t want more excuses, I want
results. I already told you that I had a personal stake in this as well. I
understand that you are only the messenger but damn it you know that you have
influence. Talk to the woman! I do not want to hear a single thing working out
for Copeland do you understand me? Good! Then the next time you call me I want
good news. Goodnight.” He slammed down the phone. Stephanie frowned as she
examined his face.
“Bad news?” She asked.
“Just a problem that I’m working on, nothing to ruin our
evening.” He promised.
“It appears we have more in common than we even thought.” She sat up, pulling
the sheet to cover her nakedness.
“We do?” He was curious.
“I couldn’t help from eavesdropping.” She explained. “Though I don’t know who
or what you were talking about, it appears the we each
have a nemesis with the same name.”
“What?” Keith frowned.
“Copeland, a name that makes my skin itch and my blood boil.”
Stephanie shook her head. “I wonder if our Copelands
are related.”
“Mike?” Eric knocked on the car window, jarring the man from his uneasy
slumber.
“What? Eric? What time is it?” Michael’s eyes flew open. “Is she back? Is he
here?”
“The house is dark, have you been sleeping all this time?” Eric was angry.
Michael looked at his watch, it was only fifteen
minutes later than the last time he had looked. “I just dozed off, not more
than a few minutes. What took you so long?”
“I stopped for coffee.” He handed Michael a container.
“Anything?” Michael asked. “Any
news? Any sighting? Anything?”
“Nothing at all. Colin is there now, Storm’s back at the room, I suggest
you go back there too, you’re tired. I rented a second car so you can take this
one back or that one, whichever you prefer.”
“I’m staying.” Michael adamantly announced.
“This is crazy. It won’t make anyone come back sooner. Go rest.” Eric insisted.
“I promised Brooke and I’m not going anywhere.” He opened the coffee and took a
sip.
“Suit yourself, but we’ll draw too much attention having two strange cars
parked here.” Eric argued.
“No one asked you to get another car Eric. Look, I don’t know what it is you
resent about me so much but I’m not your enemy. We both want the same thing and
we both love Bridget. I suggest we find a way to work together starting right
now because nothing is going to get any easier, even after we find her, if we
keep fighting.”
Even though everyone had left and
“No Mom, it’s me.” The soft voice answered.
Brooke knew she had to be dreaming. It couldn’t really be Bridget. She couldn’t
be here, could she? “Bbbridget?”
Brooke gasped, finally seeing the girl standing there. “Bridget?”
“Oh Mom, I’m so sorry, I’m so sorry.” She threw her arms around her frightened
mother.
“It’s you. It’s really you.” Brooke sobbed as she clutched her tightly to her
body. “Oh Bridget you’re home, you’re really home.”
“Get a hold of yourself girl.” Adrienne hissed to her reflection back in her
own bathroom mirror. She was shaking, she was sweating and she couldn’t seem to
control it. “I gotta find him another place to live.
I can’t keep subjecting myself to this.” She shut her eyes and immediately his
image filled them. Just as if he were right there she pictured every inch,
every desirable inch of his body. Again dampness pooled between her legs.
“Shit.” She cursed and opened her eyes. “If only you were just some guy I met,
I’d f*ck you and get you out from under my skin.” She pulled her robe, which
suddenly felt much too hot, off and threw it on the floor. “But you’re not.
You’re not a stranger. You’re my Joey. You’re my Joey.” She whispered. “And I
want you.”
“You know a Copeland?” Keith sat up straighter. “And this Copeland is your
enemy?”
“For many reasons, some old, some new and some because of his entanglements.”
Stephanie explained. “Could they be related? Copeland isn’t an uncommon name.
Wait, oh my goodness wait. You’re a doctor, he’s a doctor. Don’t tell me, your
Copeland is Michael Copeland too?”
“What did that bastard do to you? Did he hurt one of your children?” Keith
grabbed her hands and held them tightly. Stephanie looked shocked and pale. “He
did! I knew it! I knew he was rotten to the core!”
“What did he do Keith? What did he do that I should know?”
“Looks like it’s time to compare notes.” He answered. “Though this isn’t how I
had planned to spend my time with you.”
“You sound so bitter, maybe even more so than I am. Why Keith? What did he do
to you?”
“Michael Copeland is the reason my daughter is dead.” He answered. “And now he
thinks he can go on and ruin more lives. Not while I live and breathe.”
“Your daughter? My God Keith, He’s the man who ruined my daughter’s life. He
almost killed her and he killed her child.”
“Her child?” Keith gasped. “That bastard got another
girl pregnant? When Stephanie? Tell me everything, from the beginning. I
couldn’t do it alone, but maybe, just maybe together we can take this man
down.”
Brooke couldn’t let go of her daughter. She held her so tightly that it was
hard for either of them to breathe. She finally laughed softly and lightened
her grip. “We’ve been so worried, so scared. Bridget why? Why did you leave us?
Oh honey I’m so glad you’re home.” She pulled her tight again. “Are you okay?
Are you tired? Are you hungry? Where did you go? How did you get home?” Brooke bombarded
her with questions.
Bridget gave her a tight hug and then relaxed in her arms, sighing deeply,
finally feeling a contentment she hadn’t in so long. “I’m so sorry I put you
through that. I just didn’t know what to do. I didn’t want to hurt you Mom.”
“Don’t you know that I’m always here for you, that you can come to me with
anything, that I love you no matter what Bridget, no matter what?” Brooke
touched her face and stroked it. “I won’t pressure you baby, whatever it is
you’ll tell me in your own time. All that matters is that you’re home again.
But how did you get home? When did you come back from
“You knew I was there?” Bridget asked.
“I’d have moved heaven and earth to find you Bridget. Michael and your father
too.”
“I’m so sorry.” Bridget’s eyes filled with fresh tears. “I never meant to cause you pain, I just wanted to spare you. I guess
everything went wrong.”
“You’re home, that’s all that matters.” Brooke smiled and kissed her cheek.
“Are you hungry? Can I make you something?”
“We didn’t eat at all on the, oh no!” Bridget stopped and turned towards the
door.
“What?” Brooke panicked. Bridget couldn’t be thinking about leaving again. She
wouldn’t let her.
“Jacob?” Bridget called out. “Jacob please, come meet
my mother.”
Brooke turned to follow Bridget’s eyes as the young man stepped through the
doorway. “I didn’t want to interfere with your reunion.” He walked over and
offered his hand to Brooke. “I’m Jacob Trueman, a
friend of
“Yes.” She looked down with shame. “I’m sorry Jacob, I didn’t mean to lie to
you, I just wanted to keep my privacy.” She looked at
Brooke. “Jacob helped convince me to come home, and he came with me, probably
so I wouldn’t run again.” She looked over at Jacob.
“It didn’t take much to convince her once she realized it was what she really
wanted.” Jacob assured Brooke. “And I knew she wouldn’t run again, I just
didn’t want her to have to make the trip alone.”
“Thank you.” Brooke told him. “Thank you for helping my daughter and bringing
her home to
“I’m glad I could help her, she’s a great girl.” Jacob walked up to Bridget.
“It was really good knowing you. I’m glad you’re back
home now.”
Bridget let go of Brooke and gave Jacob a hug. “I’ll miss you.” She whispered.
“Hey, if you’re even in San Fran you know where to find me.” He smiled and let
her go. “Nice to meet you.” He said to Brooke and then
headed towards the door.
“Jacob.” Brooke stopped him. “It’s so late. Would you like to stay here until
the morning? You must be exhausted yourself.”
“I know some people in town ma’am.” He answered. “And I gotta
get back, I have responsibilities back home. But thanks.”
“I’ll never forget you Jacob.” Bridget’s eyes filled with tears.
“I won’t forget you either
“I know.” Bridget answered through her tears.
“Goodbye.” Jacob waved to them both and left.
“He seems very nice.” Brooke put her arm around Bridget.
“He is, he really helped me, more than I even
imagined.” She smiled and hugged Brooke. “I’m going to miss
him.”
“Maybe we can visit him sometime.” Brooke suggested. “Oh baby, I’m so glad
you’re back.” She hugged her once more.
“Where’s Mike?” Bridget asked. “Is he asleep? I really can’t wait to see him.”
“Michael.” Brooke gasped. “I have to call him.”
“He’s working?” Bridget frowned. “So late? Does he
have another critical patient?”
“Michael and your father are in
“Looking for me? Mom, how did you know I was there?”
“We had detectives, but they didn’t find you.” Brooke smoothed her hair. “Now
don’t be angry, you know that we would never give up on you.”
“I guess I didn’t think that but I should have.” Bridget agreed. “So if the
detective didn’t find me?”
“Your phone call.” Brooke told her.
“Jacob promised he had caller ID blocked.” Bridget was confused, not angry.
“Was he wrong? I don’t think he was lying.”
“He wasn’t lying baby, there was no caller ID for us
to see, but our line was still being tapped by Blake Hayes.”
“He helped you?” Bridget asked her. “Why would he do that? Wouldn’t he get in
trouble?”
“Blake didn’t help, Joey did, he broke in and got the
information.”
“Joey.” Bridget sighed.
“Bridget, you have to be honest with me. Did Joey do something to you? Is he
the reason you left?” Brooke grabbed her hand and held it tightly. “Please
Bridget, please, I need to know.”
“Joey didn’t do anything. He’s never done anything, no matter how much I wanted
him to.” She admitted. “Mom, I can’t, I just can’t talk about why I left, not
yet. Please try and understand.”
“I’m trying, but all I can do is let my imagination go crazy. It’s so hard
Bridget, I’m so scared, even with you back I’m just so frightened. I won’t
press honey, I’ll give you time, but I need you to talk to me about this once
you’re feeling better. Do you think you can do that?”
“Not tonight.” Bridget sighed and yawned.
“No baby, not tonight.” Brooke smiled and squeezed her hand. “So, are you
hungry honey? Can I make you something?”
“I think I just want to sleep if you don’t mind.” Bridget yawned again.
“Would you mind a little company?” Brooke asked. “I just don’t think I’m ready
to let go of you yet.”
“Me either.” Bridget hugged her tightly. “I love you Mom.”
Michael had decided that it was better to leave Eric at the house than to stay
and argue with him. He had considered going to the hotel to rest but knew that
would be useless so instead he had headed to the coffee house to wait out the
shift and hopefully see Bridget. He walked in, spotted Colin and took a seat at
the table next to him. “Anything?” He asked.
“Storm checked a few of those shelters for runaways but no one has seen her.”
Colin answered. “No one new has come on yet. You need coffee?”
“I’ve had so much I wonder if I’ll ever sleep again.” Michael laughed softly.
“But yeah, I guess I do.”
Colin motioned the waitress by pointing to his cup and then to Michael. “You just want regular right?”
“Yeah.” Michael stretched and yawned. “Colin, I’m getting worried.
Frankly I was sure we’d have found her by now. I’m really scared that someone
has tipped her off and that she’s already gone.”
“I know, I had the same thought.” Colin admitted.
“There’s not too much more we can do but I had the detectives post men at the
airports and train and bus terminals. I know it would be easy for her to get
past them but we had to try something.”
“Thanks Colin.” Michael smiled warmly at him. “I guess I’m not doing a good job
with any of this.”
“It’s easier for me Mike. I’m still the outsider. I can be a little more
detached, though not really. I love Storm so much and well, you and Brooke and
Bridget, you’re family to me now, but still, I am the one that is the least
connected.”
“As well as being calm and level headed.” Michael looked down.
“What? Did Dr. Hothead make another appearance?” Colin teased.
“I think if I had stayed with Eric much longer I would have hit him.” He
answered.
“She’s Eric’s daughter Mike, he’s scared too.”
“I get that, I do, but he doesn’t seem to get that I love her too, in fact he
claims I don’t.” He scratched his head. “He’s spewing off about taking Bridget
away from us again and I will NOT let that happen.”
“He’s emotional Mike, let him get mad, you know Bridget’s not going to live
with him.”
“I know I was a selfish prick Colin, I do, but that’s not me now. Why the hell
is it so hard to live down a past?”
“You’re just upset. Everything will be fine once we get Bridget home.” Colin
tried to reassure him.
“It’s not even that my past was THAT bad anyway? Sure, I screwed around, I
liked the ladies and I didn’t want to settle down but it’s not like I was a
criminal or into drugs or anything crazy, I just liked to get laid. Is that a crime?”
“Not in my book.” Colin laughed.
“Shit, I still like to get laid, but now it’s just with my wife.” Michael
laughed but then turned serious. “I lost a chance with Jason. I won’t let
Brooke lose Bridget Colin. Even if I have to give them both up, I will NOT let
anyone take Bridget away from Brooke.”
“Give them up? Don’t talk crazy.”
“I know, I know, I’m just tired of everyone thinking I’m some kind of monster.
I just want the life that I’ve tried to make back. I was happy and I want that back.”
Bridget
gently put
“Both my girls are.” Brooke smiled at her.
“I love the name Mom. Grandma and Anne must have been so thrilled.”
“They were, but we sort of lost the joy Bridget.” Brooke said with a stern
expression.
“I’m so sorry Mom, I never meant for that to happen. I just thought.” She
stopped.
“No honey, you didn’t think.” Brooke told her. “But we will all just try and
forget that and start over. I have my family now and that’s all that matters.”
“Where is Rick?” Bridget asked.
“Um, they went to see Amber’s mother. They’ll be home tomorrow morning, he’ll be so excited to see you. Everyone will
Bridget, especially Michael. Oh my God, I have to call Michael!”
“Can I?” Bridget asked.
“Of course you can.” Brooke smiled and got her phone and handed it to Bridget.
“Here honey.”
“Thanks Mom.” She smiled at her.
“That girl knows something.” Michael said to Colin after the waitress had given
him his coffee and walked away. “She’s hiding something, I know she is.”
“I grilled her earlier, maybe she’s just tired of
defending herself.” Colin replied. “She seemed to be concerned about Bridget.”
“Yeah maybe. I did watch her and she didn’t run for a
phone or anything.” Michael sighed.
“And she didn’t before either.” Colin confirmed. “I think she wants to help, I
do. She said that Bridget is scheduled to work today,
she knows we’re waiting and she isn’t acting suspiciously. I think it’s fine Mike.”
“No you don’t, but thanks for trying Colin.” Michael took a sip of his coffee
and his cell went off. “Shit!” He muttered as the hot coffee splashed his chest
in his haste to put down the cup. “It’s Brooke!” He told Colin as he looked at
the phone. “Hi sweetheart. Nothing
new here yet.” He spoke into the phone. “Why aren’t you sleeping?”
“Mike?” Bridget’s soft voice answered.
“Bridget! Bridget?” His eyes widened as he grabbed Colin’s arm. “Bridget where
the hell are you?”
“I’m home Mike.” She answered as she started to softly cry. “I’m so sorry that
I made you go all the way to
“You’re home? How? When?” Michael was beside himself.
“I just got home a little while ago. A friend convinced me that I needed to
come home. He was right and I’m so sorry. So Mike, can you come home now too?”
“Oh sweetie, of course I can, I will. I’ll go get your father and uncle and
we’ll come right home now.” He smiled at Colin, making no attempt to stop the
tears of joy that were filling his eyes. “You won’t leave again. Please Bridget,
promise me you won’t leave.”
“The only place I’m going is to bed Mike.” She laughed through her own tears.
“Here’s Mom, I think she needs you too.” Bridget handed Brooke the phone.
“Michael, Michael she’s home, she’s home.” Brooke was now sobbing too.
“Okay, okay, we’ll head right to the airport, we’ll be home soon. Brooke don’t let her leave.”
“She won’t honey. She’s so happy to be home.” Brooke promised him. “But it’s
late and you’re tired. Why don’t you go back to the hotel and get a little sleep
and then you can head home in the morning.”
“Are you crazy?” Michael shouted. “I’m not doing anything but come home to my
girls.”
“Just be careful Michael. Please fly safely.” Brooke
wasn’t disappointed in his answer. She wanted him home too.
“I always do Brooke, always. Okay sweetheart, I’ll be home soon. I love you
all.” Michael told her.
“We love you too.” Brooke answered and ended the call.
Michael put down the phone and hugged Colin. “She’s home, she came home on her
own!”
“Mike, that’s fantastic. Let’s go back and get Eric and Storm and get home.”
Keith had fallen asleep but Stephanie’s head was still spinning. A smile
crossed her face as she lay in the bed next to the man who was going to help
her finally get revenge. Brooke Logan and Michael Copeland would pay, they would both pay for everything they had done to her
family. It was finally going to happen and with Keith at her side, unlike the
weakling she had married, it would all work out. “You’re finally going to get
what you deserve Brooke, you and the monster you married.” She smiled and
closed her eyes.
Adrienne’s sleep was restless. She was hot and uncomfortable and it had nothing
to do with the temperature or her bed. She flung her arm and to her surprise
she connected with hot, hard flesh. Her tired eyes strained to open as the
mouth descended on her own. She moaned aloud as she fell into the kiss, tasting
his tongue, feeling his bare chest against hers. “Joey.” She moaned.
“I couldn’t stay away.” He pulled her tight against him, his fingers pulling
her flimsy red negligee up over her breasts. “Put your arms up.” He instructed
her. Adrienne lifted her arms, powerless to do anything different. The second
the nightgown was gone his mouth found her hard, aching nipple. She moaned again
as he bit, sucked and teased one. She spread her legs and inched herself
closer, against him. She opened her eyes and stared down it him. “The other.” She begged.
“Don’t worry. I’ve got it all covered.” He smiled and moved to the other
nipple, taking that one into his wet, sexy mouth.
“Touch me, touch me Joey. I’m on fire and you gotta
touch me.” She pushed herself against him.
“With what? My hand? My mouth? My prick?” He looked into
her eyes.
“All of it. Touch me with all of it.” She grabbed his hand and guided it to the
delta between her legs.
“You’re so freaking hot Ade.” He ran his fingers back
and forth over her slick folds. “I need to f*ck you.”
“Yes sugar, yes you do.” She grinned as she slipped her fingers into his
shorts. “God you’re big, so nice.” Her hand circled him and moved up and down
his length. “So big and so hard. I bet you’re tasty
too.”
“Suck it Ade, I want your mouth all over me.” He
lifted his hips and pulled the shorts down.
Adrienne got on top of him, straddling him. She leaned down and started licking
and kissing her way down his body, from his shoulders to his chest. She slowed
down at his belly button, her hands reaching below and stroking him again. He
was so hard, so ready and she just wanted him inside her. She had to have him
inside her. Somehow Joey seemed to know that. He flipped her over and was on
top of her. He reached down and stroked her again. “Wwwwhat? What are you doing? I, I didn’t even
start.” She stammered.
“You will.” He answered. “Later. But right now you need to come and you need to
be f*cked and I need to f*ck you.”
“Yes.” She moaned. “I need you to f*ck me right now Joey! F*ck
me Joey!” She screamed as she pulled him down to her. She spread her
legs and wrapped them around his back. “Now Joey, f*ck me now!”
“We’ll call before we come over later.” Storm told Michael as they
prepared to split up at the airport. He turned to Eric. “Can we give you a ride
home?” He offered.
“I’m going back with Michael.” Eric answered with a frown.
Michael looked at his watch. “Eric, it’s barely morning, I’m sure Brooke and
Bridget are both sleeping. Why don’t you go home, get
some sleep yourself and then come over later.”
“I thought I made myself clear.” Eric said in a strong, defiant tone. “I am her
father and I am going to be there.”
“I’m not arguing with you about that Eric, but what’s the point of going when
she’s asleep? So can we work this out? I don’t want to cause Bridget any more
stress than necessary.” Michael argued.
Colin looked at Storm with dismay. He knew Eric wasn’t going to react well to
this.
“Are you claming that I cause her stress because believe me, the one who causes
the stress certainly is not me!” Eric shouted.
“For God’s sake Eric, do you have to twist everything I say to you?” Michael
threw his arms up with disgust. “Fine, come with me, sit on the couch, but
don’t you dare wake her! Don’t you dare wake any of my girls!”
“YOUR girls? Bridget is NOT your girl!”
“Whatever.” Michael was annoyed now. “For some reason you want to make this
into something it’s not! I’m not the bad guy here! I’m trying to make
everything best for everyone. I have a wife who was running on empty, a baby
daughter who needs both her parents and a step daughter who just needs to rest
and have some normalcy. But if you insist on coming in, waking her up and
playing a game of ‘let’s up Michael’ then go for it! But it’s not going to earn
you points with anyone.” He turned to Storm and Colin. “I’ll see you later.” He
said as he walked towards his car. He stopped and turned to Eric. “What’ll it
be? Are you coming or what?”
“Damn straight I’m coming.” Eric walked angrily past Colin and Storm and
followed Michael to the car.
Ridge had awaken to noises and gone to investigate. He found
“I couldn’t sleep.” She answered. “So I decided not to just lie there until it
was late enough to call Brooke.”
“I’ve been thinking about her too.” He sat down and took her hand and squeezed
it. “Do you mind if I go over with you?”
“No.” She smiled. “I’m sure Brooke will be grateful too.” She yawned and looked
at the clock. “I wonder if Michael and Eric found her.”
“I don’t trust any information coming from that loser.” He was referring to
Joey.
“He cares about Bridget and he’s trying to mend fences with Michael. I don’t
think he’d lie. Besides, Storm’s friend saw her there too so he was right.”
“
“But they know the house she called from and they know where she works.”
“I still wonder what made her leave.” Ridge got up and poured himself a glass
of juice. “More?” He asked his wife.
“No thank you. And I wonder too. So does Brooke.”
“Dad tends to blame Mike’s influence.” Ridge sat down again.
“That’s insane.”
“I don’t know Doc, things haven’t been really the same
since the day I brought him to the hospital. You can’t imagine how many times
I’ve wished I could rethink that decision.” He shook his head and looked
thoughtfully at his wife.
“You’re just jealous.” She said without anger. “Mike is the best thing that
ever happened to Brooke. I admit, I wasn’t so sold on him at first either but
he adores her and she him and they have one of the most loving and stable
marriages that I’ve ever seen. He’s made her a strong, happy and secure woman
Ridge, and he loves her children too. Don’t you go blaming Michael, whatever
happened was NOT his fault.”
“I guess you’re right.” Ridge admitted. He looked sheepishly at her. “Why am I
like this? Why do I get jealous? Doc I love you, I want us, I want our
marriage, I swear I do. Why can’t I just let her go?”
“If I had that answer maybe we WOULD have a marriage.” She sighed softly.
“Take a seat. I’ll go see if anyone is still awake.” Michael ushered Eric into
the house.
“I’ll come with you.” Eric started to follow him up the stairs but Michael
stopped suddenly and blocked him.
“This is where I am going to have to stand my ground. This is my home, it’s my bedroom and my wife. I am not going to let you
just walk in while she is sleeping, and don’t give me that ‘I used to be
married to her’ crap because I AM a jealous husband and I am a possessive husband
and I am NOT going to let any man walk into my bedroom! You got that straight?”
“Fine, but you hurry Michael, I mean it.” Eric warned.
Michael shot him a look and took the stairs two at a time. At the top of the
staircase he stopped and took a deep breath. He wasn’t going to upset them. He
was a little nervous as he put his hand on the doorknob and opened his bedroom
door. But he couldn’t contain his smile when he saw Brooke in the most serene
sleep he had seen her in in months, lying on the bed, her arms wrapped around Bridget. “Yes.” He
whispered. He walked over softly, leaned down and kissed her head. “Hi sweetheart.”
Brooke’s eyes fluttered open. She looked at him and smiled. “She’s here
Michael, she’s really here.”
“I see that.” He leaned over Brooke and placed a kiss on Bridget’s cheek. “Hey
squirt, I’m home.” He said with a laugh. Bridget opened her eyes and smiled at
him.
“Mike.” She said in a sleepy voice.
“I’m so glad you’re home. I know you’re tired so go on back to sleep, we have a
lot to talk about but we have plenty of time to talk in the morning.” He gave
her another kiss and then moved back to Brooke and held her in his arms. “Are
you okay?” He asked.
“Better than okay now.” She clutched him tightly.
“Good.” He smiled. “Go on back to sleep. I didn’t want to wake you, but I just
had to.”
“Mike, I can go to my own room.” Bridget said sleepily. “You want to be here
with Mom.”
“Honey, I’m way too wired to sleep anyway. You both just go back to sleep.”
“You can sleep in my room.” Bridget suggested.
“I could.” He smiled , then turned at the sound of
Bethany crying. “But I think I’ll take Daddy duty instead. Plus I have a call
to make. You just go on back to sleep.” He gave Brooke one more kiss and then
headed into the nursery.
“Huh? What?” Adrienne’s eyes shot open. She felt something, she sensed a
presence. She was confused as to what was real and what wasn’t real. Her focus
returned and she saw Joey standing in the doorway, leaning against the wall,
wearing nothing but light blue boxers, staring intently at her.
“If you just scrunch over a bit I can make it all real Ade.”
He walked to the bed looked down at her, he wasn’t frightening but he was
disarming. “I know who you were thinking about and baby, I was thinking of you
too.”
Her eyes flashed angrily as he sat down on the edge of the bed and stroked her
long bare leg. “Don’t.” She warned him.
“I think the words were f*ck me now Joey. Don’t sound much like don’t to me
baby.”
“Stop calling me that!” She snarled.
“A sign of frustration, that angriness.” He laughed
and moved his hand from her leg. “You can’t even begin to imagine how hot you
were making me. Or maybe you can.” He looked down at the hardness in his jockey
shorts, her eyes following, her mouth suddenly agape.
“It’s yours for the taking, I’m yours for the taking Ade.”
“Nothing is going to happen.” She shook her head, but couldn’t tear her eyes
from his body.
“It’s already happening Ade.” He argued.
“Go Joey, go and close the door.” She pulled herself away from him by inching
down the bed. He looked so good and smelled so good and all she wanted to do
was play out every scene from her dream but she knew she couldn’t it was wrong.
“Incestuous.” She muttered to herself.
“We ain’t related babe.” He reminded her. He took her
hand and held it gently, stroking it, soothing it and then to her surprise he
placed it down on his hard, throbbing c*ck. “I want you as much as you want
me.”
She knew she should have pulled her hand away, but it was burning, even through
the cotton of his shorts she could feel the desire burning and she wanted at
least this. She moaned and let her hand explore him. “Oh f*ck
Ade. For Christ’s sake why are we fighting
this?”
“Because it’s wrong, it’s so wrong.” She said, but instead of letting go she
let several of her fingers slide into the opening of the shorts, touching his
hot flesh.
Joey pulled her closer to him and then thrust his hand into her nightgown,
taking her breasts, stroking them until the nipples were hard rocks. “It’s not
wrong Ade, it’s so f*cking right and you know it.” He maneuvered himself closer,
causing her hand to slide further into his shorts. She moaned again but this
time finally freed herself from his tight clutch.
“I can’t!” She insisted. “I can’t Joe.”
“Uh huh.” He leaned over her and lowered his body onto hers. His erection
pressed against her stomach as his mouth crushed hers and their tongues did an
ageless battle, each wanting more of each other.
“Oh God, oh God Joe.” She muttered as he slipped his
hand between her legs.
“You came for me in your dream Ade, come for me for
real. Come for me now Sugar.” He pushed two fingers deep inside her and she
screamed as an orgasm rocked her entire being. “That’s it Sugar, come for Joey,
come for me.” He said as he took her mouth once more. “And now I’ll come for
you too.” He positioned himself over her and pushed himself into her waiting
and open body.
Michael carried
“She beautiful.” Eric had to admit. “Like her mother.”
“Hmmmm. I hear the word is she favors her dad.”
Michael teased.
“Well don’t expect me to call you beautiful. “ Eric laughed as he followed
Michael into the kitchen.
“I’m glad you even acknowledge me as her father.” Michael smiled.
“I know that Stephanie has her own ideas but Brooke’s word as
well as my son’s word are good enough for me. And if it wasn’t seeing is believing.” He looked at
“More than you can even imagine.” Michael answered. He shifted
“I’d be honored.” Eric took the baby from Michael’s arms. She looked up at Eric
and cooed. “You certainly are a little beauty Miss Bethany.”
Michael watched Eric with his daughter as he fixed the bottle and to his
surprise things suddenly became clear to him. He tested the temperature of the
formula and once it was right he turned to Eric and smiled. “Thanks.” He held
his arms out for the baby.
“I can feed her if you’d like.” Eric took the bottle from Michael.
“I’m sorry Eric. I was being territorial and a bit selfish. It wasn’t until I
was holding my daughter when I realized how you were feeling. We’re not so
different are we?” He asked.
“No, I suppose we’re not. We’re just two fathers who love our daughters very very much. Aren’t we?“ He asked
the question of the cooing baby.
“Bridget and Brooke are both really tired, they’re sleeping. But I’ll go get
them and ask them to come down. I know you need to see her now.” Michael told
the man. “It was wrong of me to even suggest that you wait.”
“I don’t want to make them uncomfortable. Why don’t you go and ask Brooke to
put on her robe and then I can go to them, give my baby a kiss and a hug, and
I’ll go back home and get some sleep myself. I can
come back in the morning.” Eric agreeably suggested.
“We have a perfectly fine guest room and I think I can even scrounge up some
pajamas or sweats for you. Let me just go wake them and make sure the bed is
made, if you don’t mind holding onto Bethany a little while longer that it?”
“It would be my pleasure.” Eric said warmly. “We fathers have to stick together
after all.”
“Yeah, yeah we do.” Michael smiled at him. “I’ll be right back.”
“No!” Adrienne sat up in a cold sweat. She was confused but alone. “A dream? A dream within a dream?”
She asked herself. “Shit Ade, you’re losing it,
you’re really losing it.”
“Can I help you find it?” Joey stepped into her room with a grin and two mugs
of coffee. Adrienne gasped and pulled the covers up to her chest. “Cute Ade.” He laughed. “I’ve
tasted them, no need to hide them now.” He walked to the bed, handed her a mug
of coffee and sat down next to her. “I couldn’t sleep either. I got another
idea about finding that guy, but I didn’t want to go too crazy if Mike already
found Bridget.” He looked at the bedside clock. “I guess it’s still too early
to call huh?”
“Joey what are you doing in here?” Adrienne demanded.
He sighed and smiled. “I know you’re as frustrated as I am. Why are we fighting
it Ade? Why don’t we just freaking do what we both
want to do?” He put down his mug and picked up her pillow and held it to his
face and sniffed it. “I want to fall asleep next to you and wake up that way
too. I smell you, just like this, in my dreams Ade.
Why do you keep pushing me away?”
“It’s wrong Joe.” She angrily answered. She was getting tired of this fight. It
followed her even into her dreams and she was losing strength fighting it.
“It’s wrong that we’re playing games. Damn it Ade I
want to be with you and I’m not just talking about f*cking
you! We have something, something special and you feel it too, every time I’m
with you! I know you do cause I do!” Joey shouted. He
looked at her defiantly but then he looked at her scared face, smiled at her
and melted. And when he smiled at her and she found herself melting right along
with him. “I’m sorry Ade, I don’t want to shout at you. But you’re making me so f*cking mad! Don’t you realize that I’m falling in love with
you? Don’t you realize that you’re falling in love with me too?”
Michael came down again and gave Eric the thumbs up. “Brooke’s getting decent.
Come on, I’ll show you the room.”
“It’s not necessary, I was out of line myself Michael.
We’ve all just been too emotional. I’m sorry for the things I said before.”
“Let’s just start over.” Michael grinned. He took
“As do I.” Eric agreed. “Thanks Mike.” He followed him up the stairs to the
guestroom.
“As you can see I put some sweats and pajamas out for you. I put some clean
towels in the bathroom as well as a razor, shaving cream, a toothbrush and
toothpaste. I think it should do for the night. If you don’t want to put your
own clothes on tomorrow I should have a pair of jeans and a shirt that should
do. Just ask. Make yourself at home and I’ll make sure the girls are ready.”
He went back into the bedroom. Brooke was brushing her hair and yawning.
Bridget was still trying to wake up.
“Is Eric okay with this?” Brooke asked.
“He’s fine.” Michael assured her. “We got off on the wrong foot, we’re okay
now, promise.”
“I messed up everyone didn’t I?” The guilty young girl asked.
“No.” Brooke said at the same time as Michael answered in the affirmative.
“Yeah, you did, but we can fix it.” He told her. He looked at Brooke. “No candy
coating. You never let me give it to you, and I’m not giving it to Bridget
either.” He walked to the bed and put his arm around his stepdaughter. “I love
you Budge, but you put us all through hell and we don’t even have a clue why.
You’re not getting a free pass, no matter how glad we are to have you back, but
for right now we all just want to celebrate the fact that we DO have you back.”
He hugged her tightly and kissed her forehead. “You’re going to make me gray
before my time.” He teased.
“You’d still be just as handsome.” She laughed and held him tightly. “Sometimes
I wonder what was wrong with me.”
“Yeah? Me too.” Michael teased.
“I mean because I didn’t like you or trust you or anything.”
“Ahhhh, I guess it takes time for me to grow on
people.” He ruffled her hair.
“I’m so glad you married my mother.” Tears welled up in her eyes.
“So am I.” Michael said with a wink to Brooke. They all turned at the sound of
a knock.
“Everyone decent?” Eric asked.
“Come on in Eric.” Brooke answered happily. “Our little girl wants to see her
Dad.
“Was that
the door?” Ridge asked
“I don’t know, maybe it’s something about Bridget.”
“Okay.” She smiled to herself. Ridge was being very agreeable and she was
beginning to rethink her decisions to end it all. Perhaps they could make
things work if they really tried. No, she reminded herself. There was much more
to it than that, but maybe they could have a good, civil friendship. Maybe even
apart, they could still remain a family. “I’d like that.” She said softly to
herself. “Maybe this Ridge will stay around and we really can have that.” She
got up and went to the sink to pour water for the coffee.
Ridge opened the door with a frown. A strange man, being one he didn’t know was
standing there. He was leaning against the door, sipping a container of take
out coffee and holding a newspaper under his arm. He looked at Ridge with what
could be described as a smug or arrogant expression, and then a smile. “I’m
looking for
Ridge looked at his wristwatch. “At this hour? Who are
you? What are you here for?”
“I’m Chris Turner and I’m here to pick up
“YOU’RE Chris?” Ridge’s eyes widened in shock. “You’re
a man!”
“So I’ve been told.” Chris laughed. “And you must be the ex.”
“The what?” Ridge growled. “There is no EX anything. I’m her husband.”
“Estranged, sorry.” Chris peeked inside. “Is she around?”
“Maybe you could come back at another time, or another year.” Ridge said with
anger.
“I uh, thought she wanted to go over there together. I don’t mean to step on
any toes or anything. Can you just get her please? Look, I just want to let her
know what’s going on and see how she wants to handle it. This isn’t some
clandestine meeting or anything.” Chris stepped inside without an invitation
from Ridge.
“Where the hell do you think you’re going?” Ridge stepped in front of him.
“Just out of the rain.” Chris pointed to the sky
behind him. It was drizzling lightly.
“You stay right here! Right on this spot!” Ridge
commanded. He started to walk to the kitchen then turned around and pointed at
Chris. “I don’t know what your game is but you just beware.
“Ridge!”
“You didn’t tell me that Chris was a man Doc!” Ridge said accusingly. “Why did
you lie to me?”
“I didn’t lie Ridge, I just assumed you knew. I told
you he was Mike’s friend.”
“A MALE friend?” Ridge rolled his eyes. “Mike Copeland
doesn’t have male friends.”
“He’s got me.” Chris answered. “And I know he has a lot more. Ridge, I’m not a
threat, I’m just here as a friend. But if I make you this freaked out I’ll just
leave.”
“Hey, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to cause a family feud or anything.” He told
both Ridge and
“Oh thank God.”
“That they do.” Chris agreed. “Mike asked me to call you and let you know and
to say he or Brooke would call you later. He wanted me to see if I could take
any of his willing patients today. So I am going over there to get acclimated
with the office and everything. I wanted to call you but my cell battery must
have died, so I remembered your address and drove over on the off chance you
were up. I saw the lights on so I rang. I’m sorry I caused any confusion. I
just wanted to keep you up to date.”
“Well you could have found another phone.” Ridge practically spit the words. He
didn’t like how this man was looking at
“Ridge stop it.”
“Apparently Bridget came home on her own. She must
have left to come home right when Mike and Bridget’s father were leaving. Mike
just got back himself so of course he wants to rest and have some family time.
That’s why he asked if I’d fill in for him and hey, since we’re going to be
partners why not just jump in?”
“Why not indeed.”
“At this hour?” Ridge challenged. “Somehow I can’t
imagine anyone getting a nose job or a tummy tuck at this hour.”
“Like I said, Mike called and I decided to just go and get myself comfortable
before the rest of the staff come in. But then I don’t
know why I have to explain myself to you or to anyone else anyway.”
“I’m sorry Daddy, I’m really sorry.” Bridget held onto her father almost as
tightly as he held onto her.
“Why Bridget? What was so bad that you had to run
away?” He asked. “Are you unhappy here? I thought you liked it, but if you’re
not happy we can work something else out.
Brooke looked at Michael and frowned. “I don’t think Bridget has a problem with
any of us Eric.” Brooke told him in a sharp tone. “Do you Bridget?” She asked
her daughter.
“It’s just me Mom.” Bridget answered softly. “I didn’t want to ruin
everything.”
“You couldn’t if you tried.” Michael spoke up. “But what is it you think you
ruined Budge?”
“Can we just forget it all? I promise I won’t do it again. I promise I’ll try
to live a good life and make you all proud of me.” Bridget looked hopefully
from Michael and Brooke to Eric.
“We’re already proud of you sweetheart.” Eric assured her. “But we’re all
worried and we’re all confused.”
“I’m sorry.” She said again.
“Did it have something to do with that man Bridget? The man
that Sara told us about?” Brooke questioned.
“No.” She looked down in shame.
“Then what is it honey?” Eric asked. He loosened his hold on her. “You can talk
to us Bridget, you can.”
Bridget looked at Michael and Brooke again. “You don’t need me anymore.” She
told them.
“Don’t need you? I’ll always need you!” Brooke gasped. “What are you talking
about Bridget?”
“You and Mike have
“Just so you know, we don’t feel this way, we never felt this way and we’ve
never done anything to make her feel this way. Brooke is a good mother, she
loves all her children equally and I love her too. I just want you to know
that.”
“I do Mike.” Eric nodded. “And I think Bridget does too, but it must have been
a confusing time for her with the pregnancy and the move and the arrest.”
“She’s not leaving us Eric.” Michael reminded him.
Bridget turned back to Eric. “Mike didn’t do anything wrong. Mom either. I know
I was being crazy. I love them and I’m sorry. I’m sorry I hurt any of you.”
“Bridget this just sounds a little um, well, it doesn’t sound like you.”
Michael looked her in the eye. “Are you sure you’re telling us the truth?”
“Michael, she’s had a hard time, she’s home. Let’s just be happy. Please.”
Brooke looked pleadingly at him.
“I think that’s a good idea.” Eric agreed. “It doesn’t really matter why as
long as Bridget is home and safe and ready to get back to normal.” He turned to
Bridget. “You are aren’t you?”
“Normal?” She whispered but then gave him a forced smile. “Yes Dad, I’m
ready to be back to normal again.”
“Then it’s settled.” Brooke smiled. “We’ll just move on. Right?”
She looked at Michael again.
“Are you sure you can Bridget?” He asked his stepdaughter.
“I want to be home, I do.” She answered.
“See Michael.” Brooke looked hopefully at him. “It’s
going to be fine.”
“I’m not going to make it hard for you Bridget.” Michael sighed. “I’d like to
know more, but for now I’ll accept your explanation.”
“Why don’t we all get some sleep. We can have a nice
breakfast when we get up.” Brooke suggested to the family.
“I’d really like that.” Bridget said with a sigh of relief. “I’m so happy that
I’m home.”
“Walking away from me isn’t going to make it go away.” Joey came up behind
Adrienne in the kitchen and put his arms around her waist. He pulled her
against his body and took a deep breath, taking in her scent. “You can’t hide
from it Ade, you can’t hide from me.”
“You never should have come into my bedroom.” She struggled to free herself but
he held on tightly. “Come on Joey, this isn’t funny.”
“I’m not laughing.” He kissed her neck.
“A coupla days ago you were
in love with Felicia.” She pointed out.
“I don’t think so.” He let her go and sat down at the table.
“You moved in with her, you wanted a life with her. Now she’s gone and you’re turnin’ towards me. But we’re just friends Joe and we can’t
mess that up.” She took the kettle from the stove and walked to the sink. She
turned on the water, tested the temperature and filled it with water. “Your ego
got bruised Sugar, that’s all.”
“Not true.” He argued. “Yeah, I wanted something with Felicia, but we never
would have made it. We’re too different. She wants more from life,
she’s too classy for a guy like
“Thanks.” Adrienne chuckled. “Nice to know I’m from the gutter and all.”
“I didn’t mean it that way. You know we come from the same places Ade, we’re alike. You are classy but you don’t forget your
roots.”
“You’re trying to rationalize Joey and it’s not working.
You’re horny, you think I’m hot, that’s it.”
“If I was just horny I could get laid. Instead I’m here, begging you, getting
nothing but frustrated and still happier than I’ve been in like forever.”
“That’s crazy.” She argued.
“You know something Ade?” He got up and went back to
her and took her into his arms. “All my life everyone has been telling me I
should be more like Mike.”
“That’s not a bad thing. Mike’s a good guy Joe.”
“Yeah, he is and I love him, but unlike what everyone seems to think I haven’t
spent my life being jealous of him. I didn’t go for Felicia because of their
history. I didn’t even know that they HAD a history when I met her.”
“I’m not accusing you sugar. But there’s nothing wrong with wanting better
things. Mike did good, but you’re doing good now too.”
Ade stroked his hair and smiled. “And I do love you
Joe, but we can’t go there, it’s just not right.”
“I was jealous once Ade.” He went on. “Not of his
money, that just made me angry that he had it and I didn’t. Not of his
education, I had that chance and I just decided I didn’t want it. But there was
one day that I was so jealous that I hated him. I hated that he had what I
wanted. I wanted to take it from him and I didn’t care what happened to him. I
was jealous Ade, I was.”
“Oh Joe, sugar it’s not good to have those kind of thoughts. Mike worked hard
for his things and you are too. It’ll come sugar.”
“I know it will.” He smiled at her. “But you asked about me being jealous and I
was. I just never told anyone, not till now.”
“What did you want of his?” She asked him, truly interested.
“The day he came home and told us that he married you Ade. That was the one time I wanted to be him, that
was the only time I wanted to be him. Because he had you Ade. I wanted to be him so I could have you.” He
pulled her close and kissed her. His lips claiming hers, his
mouth possessive and demanding and her own mouth betraying her and giving in to
each and every one of his demands.
Michael walked in as Brooke was taking the last plate out of the dishwasher.
“Where’s Bridget?” He asked as he gave her a quick kiss.
“She’s taking a bath.” Brooke answered. “Is Chris doing okay at the office?”
“Yeah, most of the patients seemed okay with it. I think this is going to
really work out.”
“I’m glad honey.” She smiled. “And you’re really alright with this?”
“Why wouldn’t I be?” He wondered.
“I can remember when you would have been a little hesitant to give up any of
your patients to someone else.”
“I have different priorities.” He smiled. “So where is Eric?” He looked around.
“He said to tell you thank you and that you’re right, you make a mean egg.”
Brooke giggled. “He went to the office. He asked me to come down,
he wants to show me something. He said that it would only be for a little bit,
but I don’t know.”
“You did say you wanted to show off
“What about Bridget?” She bit on her cuticle.
“We can’t smother her.” He said softly. “But I’ll be here. She won’t be alone.
I won’t get in her face, I’ll just let her know that
I’m here for her.”
“You’re a good man Michael Copeland.” Brooke kissed him.
“I love her too Brooke. You know that I’m relieved too that she’s home.”
“Michael, please don’t press her. I know her answer was vague, but I don’t want
to scare her off again. Please.” She took his hand and squeezed it.
“I gave you my word, and I gave it to her too.” He sighed. “But I still think
there’s a lot more to it.”
“She’ll tell us in time. Oh Michael, I just don’t want her to get scared and
run again. She’s happy now, she’s home and she’s happy.”
“I won’t do anything to change that Brooke, I promise you that.” He gave her a
smile. “Did you talk to
“Just a quick call. She and Ridge want to see Bridget
but I don’t want to put too much pressure on her, I just want everything to
feel normal to her.”
“What did you tell her then?” He asked.
“I said that if Bridget was feeling up to it we could grill some burgers or
something and maybe they could come over for a while. It’s so hard, I feel like
I have to tiptoe around somehow.”
“I’d like US to get back to normal too.” Michael gave her a big grin.
“Oh God Michael, I do too.” She cuddled into his arms and kissed him tenderly.
“Tonight, tonight we’ll finally be together again.”
“Is that a promise?” He asked her.
“You can take it to the bank.” She smiled broadly. “I’ve missed you so much.”
She pulled closer, kissing him again, deeper than before. “I’ve missed us.”
“Are you SURE you want company tonight?” He moaned.
“No, but I think Bridget might, and I doubt that I can keep everyone away. I
know Rick and Amber will be here and my mother and, and.” He words were cut off
by his kisses. She snaked her arms around his neck. “Early, it will me an early dinner.” She muttered into his mouth.
“Very early.” He agreed, kissing her deeper and
deeper.
“Quick meal, then they can all go.” She moaned, his
hands slid under her blouse, caressing her breasts. He slipped them out again
and cut off this kiss. “Why did you stop?” She asked with a pout.
“We’ll have a lot more time tonight. You go on and take
“You won’t let her leave.” She asked nervously.
“We can’t keep her prisoner Brooke, but I promise, she won’t go anywhere unless
I know about it.”
“Just for now.” Brooke sighed.
“Just for now.” He winked. “Sweetheart you have to
remember one thing, she came home on her own. It’s going to work out.”
“It will.” She nervously replied. She looked over at the clock on the wall. “I
won’t stay more than two, three hours.”
“Stay as long as you have to. I have it all under control.” He promised her.
Anne Copeland pulled her car into the driveway only to find her youngest
brother sitting on her front steps. She turned off the engine, popped the trunk
open, removed the key and got out of the car. “Joey. What’s wrong? Did
something happen to Bridget?” She asked as she quickly approached him. “I got
home as soon as I could.”
“Bridget’s home.” He answered. “I just spoke to Brooke
a little while ago. She said she’d call you later or you could call her.”
“I will.” She looked back at her car. “Can you get my bag out of the trunk?”
“Sure.” He got up. “I need to talk to you Annie.”
“Are you in trouble?” She asked him.
“More than I’ve ever been in my entire life.” He answered. Then he walked to
the trunk of the car.
“Is HE going to be there?” Ridge demanded of
“I didn’t ask. He might be, but maybe it’s just going to be family. It’s not a
party Ridge, it’s just family welcoming back Bridget.
I think that should be our first priority.”
“It was just a question.” Ridge shrugged.
“You have no right to be so possessive Ridge, we’re separated, we’re
divorcing.”
“Not if I have my way.”
“Well you don’t.” She shook her head. “I’d like to go in separate cars
tonight.”
“Why?” He quickly turned to her.
“Because we aren’t a couple and I don’t want us arriving as one.”
“Because of HIM.” Ridge growled.
“Because we aren’t a couple.” She answered.
“And the kids? Who do you want them to come with?” He
asked angrily.
“The children aren’t coming. This is a quick, informal meal Ridge,
it’s just to show Bridget some love and support. Mike and Brooke need time
alone with her.”
“Then why are they doing this?” He growled.
“I know you’re angry with me, please don’t make it about them.”
“Do I do anything right anymore Doc?”
“I don’t want to fight with you. I’m tired Ridge. I’m going to go work out a
little, see if I can loosen up. I’ll see you later.” And with that she turned
and left him alone in the room.
“Hey.” Bridget walked into the study where Michael was working at the computer.
“Hey Budge.” He turned around and smiled.
“You know you can go to work Mike, you don’t have to stay around and watch me.
I swear I’m not going to run again.”
“I believe you.” He answered. “But I’m tired anyway. I wouldn’t be in the best
shape today.”
“What are you doing?” She asked as she walked behind him. She could see that he
had been typing something.
“Actually I’m working on a presentation. I was asked to speak at a conference
about the new procedure I started.”
“Wow.” Bridget leaned over and started reading it. “I guess this is going to be
all doctors?”
“Yeah. Is it too technical?” He asked.
“Well, for me, but not for them I’m sure.”
He saved what he had written and closed the document. “This can wait, I’m not
making too much sense right now anyway.”
“You don’t have to do that. I’ll leave you alone to work.” She turned to leave
but he called her back.
“Bridget, come here. I want to talk to you.” He got up and walked to the
leather couch. “Sit with me?”
Bridget walked over and sat down next to him.
“I’m going to do something I shouldn’t do. I promised your mother I’d leave it
alone, but honey, I can’t.”
“Mike, I.” She turned away.
“Sweetie, you can talk to me. I know you’re holding it all inside, I know
there’s more to it and I can see you’re hurting.” He took her hand in his own.
“I’m a good listener and I won’t judge you.”
“It’s what I said.” She answered unconvincingly.
“You’re not jealous of a little baby Bridget.” Michael couldn’t let it go.
“I just wanted you to be happy.” She said softly.
“We couldn’t be happy without you.”
“I, I, I’m so scared.” She looked at him and tears started streaming from her
eyes. “Mike I’m so scared. Help me, please help me.”
He pulled her into his arms and held her tightly. “It’s okay Bridget, I’m here,
I’m here and I’ll help you. Shhhhh. It’s okay, you’re home and you’re safe.”
“I’m sorry, I’m so sorry.” She sobbed. “Mike I’m so scared.”
“Why honey, why are you scared?” He tried to gently soothe her. “Talk to me.
You can trust me. Bridget, does this have something to do with the man Sara
told us about?” He knew by the way she stiffened in his arms that it did. “Did
he hurt you? Bridget what did he do to you? You tell me what he did and I’ll
make sure that he doesn’t get away with it. I’ll help you honey. I will.”
She was shaking, but she clutched him like a lifeline. “It’s too late.” She
sobbed.
“No, it’s never too late. We love you and we’ll help you get through it
Bridget.”
“Yyyou don’t understand.” She said with a stammer.
“I think maybe I do. Did he rape you Bridget? Did he?”
“I, I wanted him to do it. I didn’t want t be a virgin anymore. I shouldn’t
have, I was stupid and I wanted it to stop. But it was too late. He was nasty
and dirty and he didn’t even care at all. All he wanted was to get off and
leave. It was horrible and it hurt and, and.”
“Awwh honey, I’m so sorry that happened to you. I
swear if I find that pig.” He knew his anger wouldn’t help her so he took a
deep breath to calm down. “You should have come to us. You shouldn’t have felt
you had to leave. Did you really think we wouldn’t be there for you?”
“You don’t understand.” She sniffled.
“I know that what you did might have been a mistake or even a bad judgement call, but your mother would never judge you and
neither would I.”
Bridget hugged him tightly. She cried in his arms for a few minutes and then
finally let go. “There’s more.” She whispered almost too softly for him to
hear. “There’s more and this can’t be fixed.”
The fear and finality in her voice cut into him like a knife. He was suddenly
terrified. He instinctively knew what she was going to say, but he kept trying
to push it away.
“Mike?” She looked up at him through her tears. “I’m so scared Mike. I wanted
to do this alone. I didn’t want to make everyone else suffer but I was too
scared. I couldn’t do it alone. Mike, I don’t want to die.”
“Die? Bridget?” He grabbed her hands. “Bridget?”
“I have AIDS Mike. He gave me AIDS.” Her eyes filled with tears as a
look of shock and terror came over Michael’s face. “I don’t want to die.” She
sobbed.