Setting:  Chez Vous
Time of Day:  Seven P.M.

John and Marlena arrived at the restaurant around seven.  They agreed to be gone before Philip ever arrived.  They now sat in a corner booth in the back looking over their menus.

John:  (He takes a sip of his wine and then sets the glass down while looking at the beauty sitting across from him.)  So, where did you fly in from this time?

Marlena:  (She was unsure whether his question had a sarcastic tone, or not.)  I was at my Miami office when she called me yesterday.

John:  Miami, uh?  I bet that is a sight to behold.

Marlena:  What is?

John:  A hot blonde like you in Miami.  Out on the beaches.  Black bikini and tanned body.  Your male servants at your every beck and call bringing you daiquiris on the beach.

  Marlena:  Doctors hardly have time for such.

John:  But babes with a bod like yours are like a magnet to young guys.  It's like your beauty suddenly replaces their brains.

Marlena:  (Laughs)  Is that how it was with you?

John:  (He eyes her with intense eyes, but is interrupted by the waiter.)  Ah!  Saved by the bell.

John and Marlena both watch as the waiter walks away.

John:  (He is somewhat noticeably nervous about being out to dinner with Marlena.)  So... your plans are to stay in Salem to help Belle.  For how long?

Marlena:  For the duration.

John:  And then what?  You up and leave for Miami?  L.A.?  She's your daughter, Marlena.  She deserves more of your time.

Marlena:  You're very good at jumping to conclusions.  Either that, or you get off on beating me down.  I said the duration, John.  I'll help her for as long as she lets me.

John:  So you plan on being here for a while.

Marlena:  I've already called Dr. Wesley at University.  I'm meeting with him first thing in the morning to discuss starting up my old practice again.

John:  (He is taken aback by her comment.  He had no idea of her intentions until now.  He tries hard to hide his enthusiasm of her being here permanently.)  I had no idea.  I think that's great.

Marlena:  So you're okay with me being in Salem for good?

John:  For good?  You mean, you're going to give up your other duties in L.A. and Miami?

Marlena:  Well, I'm sure I'll have to commute for a little while on an as needed basis, but yes, I plan on moving my life back to Salem.

He is thrilled, but refrains from questioning her permanent living arrangements.  Fortunately, he doesn't have to because she alludes to her plans.

Marlena:  So you think we'll be able to cohabitant for a while?  At least until the baby is born and Belle is doing okay.  I know it will be a little awkward at times, but I think we can handle it.

John:  I'm okay with it.  I think it will be... fun.

Marlena:  (Laughs.)  Fun?

John:  Interesting.  (He then picks up his wine glass.)  I'd like to propose a toast.

Marlena:  (She readies her wine glass while eying him suspiciously.)

John:  To us, and our interesting arrangement.  (They both smile and clink their glasses together.)
 
 

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