Paradise 

 

Chapter 11

 

 

Ridge didn’t sleep well.  He was excited and he was nervous and he was desperately hoping that Carla wouldn’t change her mind.  He didn’t know why it was so important to him to have her with him but it just was.  Perhaps it was validation, perhaps a kindred spirit, but having another believer was paramount to Ridge and he was not going to give up if Carla backed down. Every five minutes from four am on he checked his watch, waiting for it to be late enough to call Carla at home.  At six he just couldn’t wait any longer.  They’d need to get an early start.  She’d understand the call.  He picked up the hotel phone and opened his palm pilot to her number.  The phone rang two short rings before it was answered.

“Hello?” Carla’s very alert voice came through.

“Carla hi, it’s Ridge, sorry I woke you.”

“You didn’t, I’ve been up almost all night.”

“Not having second thoughts I hope.” Ridge asked.

“How could I not.  My friends all think I’m insane.”

“Join the club.” Ridge laughed.  “But we’ll show them Carla, we’ll show them all when we bring them home.”

“Do you really believe this Mr. Forrester? Do you really believe that they could have survived that crash?  You saw the wreckage, you told me how gruesome it was.  Are we going on a wild goose chase? Please be honest with me.  I don’t know if I can afford to get my hopes up for no reason.” She let out a deep sigh.

“I believe it with all my heart and soul.” Ridge told her.  “And I’ll prove it to you.” He was silent a few seconds and then spoke again.  “So are we going?”

“We’re going.  I’m going to pack and then call my boss.  Where shall I meet you?”

“I’ll come to your place, we can leave together.”

 

 

Brooke yawned and reached for Nick but to her surprise she found herself all alone.  They had fallen asleep after making love the night before but before they had time to talk.  She had to wonder if he was still harboring any anger.  She yawned and stretched and got up off of the cot.  “God I’d kill for some coffee.” She said aloud.  She let out a sigh and walked to the small cabinet where she stored the supplies.  The small tube of toothpaste was almost empty and her bar of soap was getting smaller by the day.  “We’re going to be pretty grungy soon.” She shook her head and put the smallest amount of the toothpaste onto the toothbrush.  She smiled, seeing it was already wet.  “You’re not going to like it any more than I am Nick, in fact I bet you hate it even more.”  She grabbed a towel and a coconut shell and walked out to the waterfall. Brooke slowly brushed her teeth and then bathed in the cool, clear water.  Afterwards she wrapped herself in the towel and walked back to the shelter.  It was then that she smelled the fish cooking. “Nick.” She said softly.  Her eyes widened when she saw the feast he had left for her.  He had squeezed oranges and left her a glass of juice.  He had caught, filleted and cooked her a fish, which he left on the fire so it would be hot for her.  She then saw that he had drawn a small heart in the sand and a smiley face next to it.  “You’re not mad.” She smiled.  Then she sat down to enjoy her meal, hoping that Nick would soon join her.

 

 

“I spoke to YOUR son today.” Stephanie announced as she walked into Eric’s office.

“My son eh? Funny when he displeases you he’s my son.  Where is he? What did he say?” Eric asked.

“He was on the way to the Caribbean, on the jet. Eric we’ve got to talk some sense into him. This is ridiculous.”

“But it’s harmless Stephanie.  He’s still devastated, as we all are, and this is his way of dealing with it.  I think we have to humor him.”

“Number one he is not dealing with anything.” Stephanie objected.  “He’s deluding himself into thinking she could have possibly survived.  The authorities have assured us that is not the case, they’ve combed all the area around the crash, there were and could not be a survivor.  And two it is harmful!”

“How is it harmful?  I think that in time he will see how fruitless it is and come to the realization that she’s truly gone, then he’ll come home.” Eric took his wife’s hand into his own.  “You know Stephanie, I pray and pray that somehow he’s right.”

“He’s not.” She protested.  “Not only is he not but it is harmful for many reasons.  He has abandoned his family.  His marriage is hanging on by a thread and his running off is not going to help it.  His children need him.”

“I can’t argue about the children Stephanie.”

“Taylor needs him too.”

“It seems our son wants to end his marriage. Maybe the time away will make him see reason.” Eric suggested.

“It’s not just that, I’m concerned about Rick and Bridget too.”

“You think they’ll get their hopes up?” Eric wondered.  “Have you even told them? I didn’t think it would be a good idea.”

“No, but we can’t keep it from them forever, everyone else knows.  It’d inevitable that they’ll find out and then what? I know Bridget is at her breaking point, Eric I am so worried about that girl and I don’t think that man is going to be the support she needs.”

“Neither do I.” Eric readily agreed.  “But she won’t leave him, no matter how much I try to stress he’s wrong for her.  If they hear about it you and I will be there for them and so will Thorne and Taylor and.”

“But Eric, there is more.”

“You’re preaching to the choir.  I didn’t want Ridge to do this either.”

“He’s abandoning his responsibilities.  We have a huge showing coming up, we aren’t ready, we haven’t found a lead model yet and Ridge is usually on top of that!” Stephanie adamantly exclaimed.

“I’ve got Thorne on that.” Eric assured her.

“Stop making excuses!” She answered in a shrill voice.

“What am I supposed to do, go down there and drag him back?” An exasperated Eric asked.

“Yes.” She said sharply.  “That’s exactly what I want you to do.”

 

 

Brooke saw Nick before he saw her.  He was hard at work, tying vines together into long braided ropes.  Perspiration ran down his muscled back.  Brooke smiled and walked up to him.  “Hey Magellan, thanks for breakfast.”

“Hi.” He said without looking up.

“What pray tell are you doing?” She asked with a giggle.  “Making a swing?”

“A raft.” He explained. “I told you I’d get us home and I will.”

“Oh Nick.” She sighed and sat down next to him.  “A raft? Do you really think a raft will take us across the ocean?”

Nick let go of the rope and turned to face her.  “Why must you constantly belittle me Brooke?  Why is nothing I do good enough?  What do I have to do to please you? Huh? Tell me!” He threw his arms up in disgust.

“I do appreciate you.” Brooke protested.  She reached for his arm but he pulled it away.  “Nick, don’t be that way.  I don’t mean it to belittle you, I just think it’s a waste of time.  We aren’t going to go anywhere on a raft.  We’d never make it and I’m just not ready to die.  I have more than my own life to think about now.” She said, patting her slim stomach.

“At least I’m trying.” He grumbled.

“Okay, you are, I agree, but this is not the answer.  Maybe we should be using our energy to improve our shelter or to find more food.  God knows what we’ll do when rainy season starts.  We need to work together and stop fighting.  I don’t want to fight with you Nick, I don’t.”

Nick sighed and looked at Brooke. “Maybe you’re right, but damn it Brooke, we have to do something.  I’m going crazy, I swear I am.  I don’t know myself anymore, I do and say stupid things, I’m just not cut out for this life. I’m not.”

“Oh Nick.” She said softly.  Then she put her arm around him and pulled him into her arms.

 

 

“Thorne?” Bridget said as she walked into her brother’s office. 

“Hey Bridget.” He smiled and looked up from the pile of folders he had been going through.  “What a pleasant surprise.  What brings you down to the dungeon?”

“Stop.” She giggled.  She walked to his desk and picked up a photo.  It was a girl, one Bridget’s age, young, slim and sexy.  “Hmmmm, shopping?” She teased.

“Actually I’m looking at models for the new line, the tribute line.”

Bridget frowned and squinted.  “She doesn’t look anything like Mom.” She put the photo down.

“She’s not supposed to okay.” He laughed.  “The line is a tribute, not the model.  We’re trying to do something that your mother would be proud of, that she would look at and say, yeah, this is the Forrester I believe in.  But the model, we want someone new, someone that no one has ever seen before.  But it’s hard.  We just can’t seem to find exactly what we want.”

“I don’t know.” Bridget sat down and looked at the photo again.  “She’s too young, Mom was about classic and sexy but not this young, trendy stuff.”  She cringed at her own use of the past tense.  Thorne saw the pain in her eyes and took her hand. 

“Your mother wanted Forrester to be the leader Bridget, the best of the best and we are trying to do just that. And as for being trendy, no one can say that Brooke Logan wasn’t trendy.  She had more style than most women Bridget and you can always be proud of her for that.”

“I guess I was just thinking that you’d use someone more like her, a blonde, a California type or something.”

“Someone like your Mom.” Thorne said knowingly.  “Ya know Bridget, I did think about that, but there is no one like your Mom, she was a one of a kind and any model that looked sorta like her would pale by comparison.  So anyway, I decided to go in another direction.  You don’t mind do ya?”

“No.” She smiled.  “You’re the one with the experience anyway.”

“Wanna look at some of the photos with me?” He asked her.  “It might help having a woman’s input.”

Bridget walked behind Thorne and looked down at the scattered photos on his desk.  She picked them up, one after another dismissing them.  “Sorry, I guess I’m just not good at this.” She apologized.

“You’re better than you think.  I don’t really like any of them either.”

“Anyway.” Bridget sighed and looked up at Thorne.  “Have you seen Ridge?”

The question stopped Thorne dead in his tracks.  He didn’t want to have to do this, it wasn’t his place.  The entire family was worried about Brooke’s kid’s reaction to Ridge’s search and Thorne was determined not to be the one to spill the beans.  Unfortunately for him, Bridget noticed his hesitance.

“Is something wrong?” She asked softly, bringing her hand to her mouth and biting her already ragged nails.

“No, no Bridget.  Ridge and I have been arguing lately, that’s all.  I don’t have a clue where he is and frankly I don’t care, okay?”  He looked at her carefully, hoping he had bought his way out of it.

“You shouldn’t.” Bridget simply answered.

“Shouldn’t what?” Thorne couldn’t help but ask, though he knew the conversation was best dropped.

“Life is so short, and so fragile.  He’s your brother Thorne and you love him.  Don’t fight, please don’t fight.” She looked into his eyes, with tears streaming down her cheeks.  “You’ll regret every single bad word you ever said to him.”

 

 

“You’ve really changed me Brooke.” Nick stood and then helped Brooke to her feet.  “I’m not the same person that I was when I got on that plane, that’s for sure.”

“I can’t take credit.  I think the experience has changed us both. How could it not?” She asked him.  

“It’s more than that.” He searched for the words but couldn’t seem to tear his eyes away from the beautiful, green orbs that were looking intently into his own.  Brooke reached to touch his face but he grabbed her hand and held it.  “Please, just let me say this.  It’s important to me that I do.”

“Sounds ominous.”  Brooke said with a shudder.  She’d been rejected before and this was starting to feel just like a rejection. 

“It’s not.” He promised.  “Come on.” He squeezed her hand and led her to the beach. They walked silently until they came to a log.  Nick sat down and tapped the place beside him. Brooke hesitantly took her place. “When I got onto that plane I was a spoiled, arrogant snob.”  Nick told her.

“I thought that I was the snob.” Brooke said with a giggle.  “At least that’s what you told me.”

“Ah, and I remember a beautiful blonde pointing out my camera and sunglasses and telling me that I was the pot calling the kettle black.”

“Well.” Brooke laughed softly.

“You were right.  I was a snob, hell I probably still am a snob.  I thought I was better than all the working stiffs, I thought my life was supposed to be one of privilege, that my hard work earned me a place where others waited on me, did my bidding. I sure was in for a rude awakening.  And then to have the embarrassment of my total failure as a man.  My ego, didn’t take well to that.”

“How are you a failure as a man?” Brooke asked him.  “Nick that’s ridiculous.”

“I can’t swim, I almost drowned.  I can’t fish, I could barely start a fire, you saved me, you nursed me back to life, you fed me and dressed me and then you, well, you gave me a reason to want to fight.  Do you have any idea how amazing you are?”

“I was always a bit of a tomboy.” Brooke admitted.  “I have an older brother and two younger sisters.  I looked up to Storm, I wanted to do everything he did, I didn’t want to be that ballerina or whatever it was my kid sisters wanted.  I wanted to climb trees and ride horses and play cowboys and Indian’s and we did.  Storm was very patient with me.”  She smiled as her mind was flooded with the memories.  “So you see, I had the training.  Every single boy scout badge that Storm earned, I earned on my own.”

“Weren’t you a girl scout?” Nick asked.

“Yes, but I already had the skills, from Storm.” She said proudly.  “Nick, I grew up in southern California, my life was all about being outside.”

“And I grew up in Manhattan, till I was 16 and my aunt took me out to live in Yonkers. The only green I knew was Central Park, and if you know anything about that in my youth, Central Park was pretty bad back then.”

“So you didn’t play?” Brooke asked with sadness for the child he had once been.

“I played.  I shot hoops mostly.  Concrete jungle and all that.  I wasn’t deprived Brooke, I just didn’t have the same upbringing that you did and well, it is a hindrance right now.”

“Weren’t there pools at least?  And if I’m not mistaken New York City is near a lot of coast.”

“I didn’t really like swimming. When it got hot we’d go to the pools, we’d go in, terrorize the girls, get kicked out and hang out at the pinball machines.” He smiled a crooked grin that made her stomach do cartwheels.  “As for the beach, I just hated it.  Too hot, too sandy and too many people.  I guess if I knew then what I know now.” He stopped and laughed.  “But Brooke, I feel like I’ve failed you. It’s weird, I’ve changed, I’ve grown and yet I still am a failure.  Maybe that’s why it’s so important that I at least try and build this raft and why I get so upset when you laugh at me.”

“I’m sorry.” She answered honestly.  “I don’t mean to laugh Nick.”

“So will you let me try?”

“I just don’t want us to risk our lives.” She said with a shudder.

“We won’t risk anything, if it works we can try it and if not we don’t.  Let me feel useful.”

“You are useful.” Brooke smiled at him and ran her hand down his thigh.

“That’s another thing.” He grabbed her hand and held it firmly.  “Things have to change.”

“You don’t want me anymore?” Brooke was hurt and not ready to accept his rejection. She looked into his eyes with her own sad green ones.

 

 

Ridge put the bags into the waiting car and then opened the door for Carla.  “We can get whatever else we need before we leave.”

“I must be insane.” She told him as she swept back her hair.  It was hot, the air was heavy with a tropical humidity that she wasn’t at all used to.  Using a brochure she began fanning her face.  “I never realized how hot it would be.”

“I hope you brought lots of shorts and bathing suits.”

“And antiperspirant.” Carla added with a smile.

“That too.” Ridge grinned.  “But whatever we need, we need to have it with us.  We won’t be seeing many stores once we set out.”

“What about food and water?” Carla asked.  She had a look of panic on her face.

“That’s all taken care of.  Perry will have the boat fully supplied.”

“Is it a large boat?”

“Large enough.  Come on, get in, the days a wasting and we have miles to cover.” Ridge put the key into the ignition and started the car.  It was soon cooled by the powerful air conditioning. 

“I don’t suppose I should get used to this.” Carla said, but she was relishing the cool air that was flowing from the vents.

“Hey, it’s not primitive, Perry has a nice new modern boat and the sleeping quarters are air conditioned.  But we will be spending most of the day on deck looking.”

“And on the islands?” She asked him.

“And the islands.” Ridge agreed.  He looked at the tense woman beside him in the car.  She was turning her diamond ring around her finger.  “We’ll find them Carla, I just know we will.”

 

 

“Are you crazy?” Nick laughed.  “No Princess, I don’t mean that at all. But I’ve been thinking about what you’ve been trying to tell me and you’re right.”

“What am I right about?” She asked.

“I’ve been coming on too strong and moving too fast.  This place is like a fantasy and it will be different when we get home.”

“Yeah.” She sighed.  “You’ll be back in New York with Carla and me.” She stopped and sighed again. “I’ll be all alone.”

“Brooke I meant what I said, what happened here, what happened changed everything.”

“No.” She shook her head.  “You think it did but it didn’t.  You have a fiancée that you love and when you see her again it will all come back to you. You have a good life Nick.”

“When I asked you to marry me I meant it.”

“No.” She smiled and touched his mouth with her finger.  “Shhhhhh, stop thinking crazy.”

“But I did Brooke.” He took her hand and kissed the finger and another finger and then smiled at her.  “But I know you’re right. No more marriage talk. We’ll get home and see what happens there.  I think we could have a future, I can’t even imagine not seeing you again.”

“You’ll forget me so fast Nick, and you’ll be surprised how quickly you adjust to your life again.  I don’t want to spoil that for you.”

“Not having you in my life would spoil it Brooke.  And there’s a baby to think about.”

Brooke’s eyes widened and she reached down and touched her belly.  “I keep forgetting about that.  I guess it’s wishful thinking.”  She immediately stopped, seeing the hurt on his face.  “Not that it’s yours, just that it is.  Nick I don’t want another baby, not now, not under these circumstances.  But don’t worry, I will raise him or her and I won’t expect anything from you.”

Nick’s eyes glared with anger.  “Isn’t that damn nice of you.  You’ll raise MY child, without MY help or MY input.  Aren’t you the gracious one? And what do I get to say about this?”

“I’m giving you your freedom Nick, I’m giving you your life back.  I just thought.”

“No! No you didn’t think at all!” He stood up and looked down at her in disgust.  “We’ll just see about who raises this child, and lady, all your money is not going to do it this time!” 

 

 

Stephanie stood outside Taylor’s beach house, her hand hesitating as she attempted to knock on the door.  She wasn’t sure if it was her place, but with Brooke gone someone had to be a mother for the girl, and in her heart Stephanie had always felt that she was more of a mother to Brooke’s children than Brooke had ever been.  She strengthened her determination and was about to knock when the door opened. 

Deacon Sharpe was an imposing man.  He was not tall in stature but he stood with a certain pride that seemed to make him taller and stronger than he was.  He was wearing his characteristic black garb and one hand was a cigarette while the other held a bottle of beer.  “What a pleasant surprise.” He said sarcastically.  “I wasn’t expecting a social call today, if I’d known I’d have dressed.” He sneered at her and tipped his beer bottle in a mock of respect.  “Come on in, I won’t bite.” But he punctuated his last comment with a growl and a chomp from his white teeth.  Stephanie gave him a look of pure hatred but followed him inside the house.  She inspected it carefully, expecting to see Taylor’s home somehow tainted, but it seemed as clean and cheerful as it ever had been.  “No, I didn’t burn it down yet, that was Taylor’s specialty wasn’t it?” Deacon taunted.

“I didn’t come here to talk about Taylor.” She hissed at him.

“No, I don’t suppose you did.” Deacon then flopped on the couch, putting his feet up on the coffee table. “Oh, I’m sorry.  Where are my manners?  I’m not being a good host.” He said in his most charming voice.  “Smoke?” He asked her, pointing at his pack of cigarettes.  He couldn’t contain his own humor at his joke.

“You may be amusing yourself, but your humor is wasted on me.” She shot back.

“I imagine it is.  You never did get one of those did you?  I mean a sense of humor.”

“I know exactly what you meant.”

Deacon sat up and looked over at her.  She was standing near the fireplace, intently staring at him.  “What?  You like what you see?” He asked.

“Hardly.” She scoffed.

“You wanna beer Queenie?  I got a few more cold ones in the fridge.”

“I want to know how much it will cost me.” She told him, getting right to the point.

“Cost you? Hell, you’re company Mrs. F, the first one’s free, and I think the second one, well you can have it for ten, twenty bucks.” He howled again at his own humor.

“Somehow I don’t even doubt that coming from you.  But you know perfectly well what I am talking about.  What will it cost me to get you out of Bridget’s life forever?”

“You don’t have enough in all your accounts and houses and jewels to do that.” He smiled at her.  “Looks like you’re stuck with old Deacon.”

 

 

Brooke followed Nick down the beach, finally catching up with him and grabbing his arm.  “I’m sick of this Nick! I’m sick of you taking off when you don’t like the way things are going! You run at the first sign of any confrontation. You never give me a chance to talk! I am so mad Nick! So very mad!”

He turned to her with daggers in his eyes.  “That is MY baby too! How dare you suggest that you take him away and raise him without me? How dare you! You may be rich but believe me baby, I know lawyers! I will beat you on this one!”

“I am trying to give you back your life!” She screamed at him.  “You have a fiancée and a job in New York! I’m giving you your freedom!”

“Who said I wanted my freedom?” He shouted back.  Brooke was about to come back but she saw that his face had softened.  Nick took her hand and stroked it gently.  “Who said I wanted my freedom Brooke?” He asked again, but this time softly and lovingly.

“Oh Nick.” Brooke’s eyes filled with tears and she fell into his arms. “I’m sorry, I’m really sorry.”

He looked down at her and then his lips took hers.  The kiss was deep and soulful and filled with love and wonder.  Brooke let go and gave into it.  She felt so loved with him, so wanted and desired.  She couldn’t even remember another man making her feel this way, but she also know that Nick belonged to another woman, and when the time came she would have to give him up.  “But not now, not yet.” She whispered as she held him tightly.  “Not yet.”

 

 

“Everyone has a price and I’m sure I can meet yours Deacon.” Stephanie walked to the bar and picked up an empty beer bottle.  “Your standards for living don’t seem very high.”

“Oh you have no clue about my standards lady.  And what makes you so sure that I would ever leave my wife anyway?  Don’t you think I love her?”

“I know you don’t love her, and so does her father and so did her mother!”

“Yeah, her mother, now that was a damn shame wasn’t it? I guess she’s fish food now huh?” He laughed but Stephanie remained stoic. “But you know what?” He continued.  “It’s brought us so much closer.  In fact Stephanie, I don’t think Bridget could survive without me.  So you just be careful about what you wish for huh?” He saluted her with his beer bottle.  “Now I think you should go home. Bridget should be getting here soon and I think I’ll be having my way with her, if you know what I mean. Damn those young girls are tigers.” He said with a laugh.

“You’re disgusting, you’re going down and Deacon Sharpe, be warned, you haven’t seen the end of me!” Stephanie said sharply.

“And YOU have not seen the last of me either.” He grinned back at her.

 

 

After the last argument Brooke tried her hardest not to provoke Nick.  She knew they would never be leaving the island on the raft, but if it made him feel better she decided she’d let him build it, after all they had nothing else to do with their time.  So while he worked on his endeavor Brooke set out to do more exploring of the island.  Their days were spent alone but the nights, oh the nights were spent together.  Brooke and Nick were growing closer and leaning more upon each other.  The lovemaking was still intense but the nights had become somehow calmer, with a greater sense of reality.  They’d retire for the night and tell each other stories from their lives, or just about their days. They laughed together and genuinely enjoyed each other’s company.  Brooke was feeling a sense of peace that she had never known before, but in the back of her mind she knew that someday it would end, and Nick would return to his own world leaving her more alone than she had ever been before.  But until that day she was determined to enjoy every second that they shared together, and for the last three weeks they had.

 

 

Meanwhile Carla was becoming discouraged and disenchanted.  She was tired of living on a cramped boat with two grumpy men.  She was losing any faith that she ever had.  They had combed miles and miles of sea, found and explored island after island and no signs of Nick, Brooke or a plane.  She was ready to quit, ready to call it all off, but Ridge had begged her to give it one more week.  “Just a week Ridge.” She had told him.  “Then it ends and I go home.  I have a job and responsibilities at home, they won’t wait forever for me.”  And he had reluctantly agreed.  So now she sat and reread a magazine that she had already read four times while Ridge and Perry softly argued.  She was too tired and bored to even care what it was about this time.  Probably Ridge wanting to go off on another one of his wild goose chases.  She had to hand it to him, he was persistent, but he scared her too. At night she often heard him talking to or calling out to Brooke.  Now, that in itself wouldn’t bother her too much, but when he seemed to be having a conversation with her, that was when she was frightened.  She looked over at them and again chose to mind her own business.

 

 

Ridge picked up the receiver once more and pushed on the buttons in frustration.

“All da pounding not gonna make it work Ridge.” Perry insisted.  “Da radio, I tell you it’s been acting up for days and you still choose to ignore me.”

“I guess I didn’t want to believe you, but it’s not the end of the world Perry, it’s no reason to turn back.”

“We need to get to a port and get it fixed.  We come back out after we do.  Besides, we can get more supplies.  Ridge you gotta be sensible about this. We’re out in da middle of da ocean.  We can’t be without a radio man, it just don’t work that way.”

“If we dock she’ll leave.” Ridge turned and looked at Carla.

“So she leave, she not really helping.  What you need her for?” Perry wondered.

“For belief, I need her to believe, so I can still believe.  Perry it’s been so long.”

“Maybe it’s time you stopped den, huh Ridge?”

“No!” he said stubbornly.  “Not until I find her.” 

“Well, at least we got your cell phone, so I guess we not totally alone.” Perry said, giving in. 

“Yeah.” Ridge said softly.  He was not going to tell Perry that his cell phone had died two days ago.

 

 

“Dad I,” Thorne started as he entered Eric’s office, but he stopped when he found Stephanie and Taylor inside.  “Sorry, I’ll come back.”

“It’s alright Thorne.” Taylor said with a smile.  “Your mother and I were just going to lunch and I wanted to say hello to your father.  How are you?”

“Pretty good.” He said with a smile.  “And you?” He asked with hesitance.

“I’m adjusting.”

“She’ll be just fine Thorne, once Ridge comes home and they talk.” Stephanie said cheerfully.  To Thorne’s amusement Taylor looked at him and rolled her eyes.

“Have you heard from my brother?” Thorne asked her.

“Not in two weeks.  He’s still searching I suppose.  I did try his cell the other night but they told me it’s not working.  I guess it’s not easy to find a regular phone.” Taylor explained.

“He will honey, he’s probably embarrassed by his actions and wants to wait to talk to you in person.  He loves you and he loves your children.” Stephanie told them.

“Are you going to lunch with them Dad?” Thorne wondered.

“No, I’m very busy, but I’m also getting a little bit worried.  Thorne that show is coming up and we have no Ridge and even worse, no model.”

“Ridge finished all his designs Dad.” Thorne said, trying to calm him. “And the ones that he had Fed Exed to us were even better than the first ones.  Maybe the Caribbean inspires him.”

“That still doesn’t help with the model.  Thorne I was counting on you.” Eric insisted.

“I’ll find one.  But Dad it’s hard okay, this isn’t my usual job and this one is harder than ever.  No one seems quite right.”

“This is for the tribute line?” Taylor asked.

“Yeah, and well no one is well, special enough.”

“Oh pooh.” Stephanie muttered. “You’re all putting the woman on a pedestal that she never belonged on, just because she’s dead!”

“Stephanie!” Eric jumped from his desk.

“It’s true and you know it!” She insisted.

“If the children heard you talking like that!” Eric warned.

“They know how we felt about each other Eric.  I am not condemning Brooke, I’m just saying that canonizing her now is a joke.  The woman was a whore, now she’s a dead whore.”

“Stephanie!” Taylor gasped. 

“I’m sorry but I am sick to death of everything being Brooke this, Brooke that!  Perhaps we should go Taylor, I don’t want to argue any more.”

“I think you’d best leave.” Eric said angrily. 

“Listen, I was as sad as anyone when she died, I felt badly for some of the things that happened between us.  I hate how this is hurting your children.  But I also hate how Ridge is acting and how you’re all suddenly treating her like she was a living, breathing saint! She wasn’t! Now that is all I have to say on the subject.”  She turned to Taylor. “Let’s go Taylor.”

With an embarrassed smile Taylor said her good byes to Eric and Thorne and followed Stephanie out of the office.  Once they were gone Thorne turned towards his father.  “What do you think about that?” He asked him.

“There are times when I wonder how your mother and I stay together Thorne.  But in a way I do understand her.”

“Brooke was not a whore Dad!”

“No, that is not the part I understand. What I do understand is her dismay about Ridge and his actions.  To be perfectly honest with you I’m getting pretty disgusted with him too.  He doesn’t call, he stays away when we need him the most.  And not just the company, but Rick and Bridget.  We need to be a family for them and he isn’t helping.  I know Rick is suspicious about where he is.”

“What did you tell them?” Thorne wondered.

“I told them he was working over at International.  But Rick doesn’t buy it, not with the showing.  They had me cornered and I had to say something.”

“What about Bridget?  I know she was wondering herself.” Thorne asked him.

“She worries me son.  She’s thrown so much of her energy into that Deacon Sharpe.  She isn’t going to classes and she isn’t interested in modeling anymore.  It’s Deacon, Deacon, Deacon with her. She’s thrown all the love she had for Brooke at Deacon.  I don’t trust him, not one little bit.”

“I wish someone could talk some sense into her Dad but even Brooke couldn’t okay.  We both tried you know.”

“I know son, and since her mother’s death, Bridget is even more determined to make her marriage work.  She asked me a favor yesterday.” Eric looked angry. He slammed his desk drawer shut and stared at Thorne.  “You’ll never guess what she wanted.”

“Something about Deacon?” Thorne asked.

“She wants me to give him a job.  A job at Forrester.  She wants him to be part of the company and get this, she said that if I don’t that once the will is settled she will! She’s threatening to use her portion of Brooke’s shares, talk to Rick and take over, just so she can give that maniac a job!”

“Dad she’s still upset.  But what are you going to do?”

“I guess I have no choice.  I’m going to have to give him a job, either that or I lose my daughter and I can’t have that.”

“Does Mother know?” Thorne asked with a muffled choke.

“No, and you’re not to tell her.  I have to handle this.”

“What are you going to have him do?”

“Custodian?” Eric suggested with a laugh.

“That fits.” Thorne chuckled. 

“Oh I don’t know Thorne, but I will have to think of something soon.  Anyway, have you any pictures to show me?”

“I’m going to make a call today.  I have an idea.  Don’t worry Dad, I won’t let you down, I will find the perfect model for the tribute line.  I’d do you and Brooke proud.”

 

 

Nick turned around and was almost in shock seeing Brooke. Instead of her normal sarong or nudity or even her bikini she was wearing an old, worn pair of pants, the sneakers and a long sleeved torn shirt.  “Whoa, Princess, getting modest on me?” He chucked as he put down his tools. 

“What? Don’t you like the shy Brooke?” She giggled and turned around as to model for him.  “Am I not quite up to the Forrester standards?”

“I think I like you better the usual way.” He winked.  “So what’s up?”

“That.” Brooke said, pointed to the highest peak on the island.

“Mountain climbing? Why?” Nick asked her.

“Um, because it’s there.  Because we’ve never gone up there. Because I’m bored and because I really am curious.  Maybe from up there I can see more.  Like where we are.”

“Oh, and I thought that I was Magellan.”   Nick smiled at her.  “Brooke, be careful, it’s really high up and we have no idea what the terrain is like.  I don’t want to have to come after you.”

“I’ll be fine, really.” She promised him as she pulled her hair back and tied a bandana around it.  “Maybe there is more food up there.”

“Well if there is you better bring it back with you.  I don’t want to have to make another trek up there.”

“Like you would.” She giggled.  Then she walked over and looked down at the raft.  To her surprise it was coming along well.  It looked sturdy and sea worthy, but not for the long and rough ocean that they’d have to travel.  “You’ve been really busy.”

“Not bad for a beginner huh?” he winked. 

“Not bad at all, but Nick.”

“I know, I know.  But humor me, maybe we can at least get out further in the lagoon for fishing.  It wouldn’t be a total waste then would it?”

Brooke smiled at him, then bent over and kissed him.  “It won’t be a waste at all honey.  But do you think you can take a break and try a little fishing today?  It may be dark by the time I get back.”

“It better not be Brooke and I’m serious.  Don’t you dare worry me! Maybe you should wait and we can do this together.”

“No.” She protested.  “You work on the raft.  I promise I won’t stay out after dark Daddy.” She giggled at him.  She smiled and started to turn away, but Nick grabbed her hand and pulled her to him.

“I need a goodbye kiss.” He said as he gazed into her eyes.  “In fact, I may need more than a kiss.”

“And you’ll get it if you make me a nice fish dinner.” She grinned.  She leaned into him and her lips met his in a gentle kiss.  “That’ll have to hold you.”

“Be careful.” He warned her again. 

“I will.” She promised as she walked away.

“I love you Brooke.” Nick said softly, too softly for Brooke to hear.

 

 

Carla walked up to Ridge and took the binoculars from around his neck.  She adjusted them to her eyes and scanned the empty horizon.  “We’re miles from anything.  Where are we headed now?”

“Just looking Carla, just looking and waiting.  We’ll find them soon, I can feel it.  I felt her last night, she was crying out to me.  It will be soon, maybe even today.” Ridge said hopefully.

“That was me crying out Ridge.  I want to go home.  It’s over, it’s done.  They’re gone.  I just can’t believe you got me to come with you on this crazy journey of yours.  You asked for a week Ridge, that was three weeks ago.  I’ve had it.  I want to go home now.  I want you to turn around and take me somewhere that I can catch a plane.  If you insist on continuing this nonsense you can do it without me.”

“How can you quit now? We’re so close, we’re so close I can taste it!” Ridge argued.

“The only thing I taste is the salt all over my skin.  Ridge I’m tired and I’m hot and I’m upset and Nick is dead! He’s dead! He will never come back! He’s dead and I need to go home and face it! And so do you!”

“She’s alive Carla.  But if you keep that attitude I can’t promise the same about Nick.”

“Oh, so now our hopes are what’s keeping them alive?  Ridge that is ridiculous.  Think about what you’re saying please.”

“Brooke is alive Carla, I can feel her, she’s alive and she’s counting on me and I’m not going anywhere until she is on this boat and in my arms! And that is a promise!”

 

 

“Thank you Laura, thank you so much.” Thorne said into the phone.  “You may well be saving my sorry butt.” He laughed.  “Okay, so they’ll be here this afternoon? Oh, oh okay, I can understand that.  No, I won’t do anything to cause you any problems.  Just tell me where and when and I’ll be there.”  He listened to the other end of the conversation and jotted down some notes.  “Thanks again, I owe you one.”

 

 

“Where do you think you’re going sugar?” Deacon called out, stopping Bridget in her tracks. 

“School.” She answered shyly.  “I have a huge exam today.”

“And you were going to try and sneak out without a goodbye kiss? Bad girl Bridget, bad, bad girl.” He walked up to her and pulled her into his arms.  “I may have to punish you.”

“Ohhh.” She sighed.  “I um, think I might like that.”

“What time is this nasty exam of yours?” He asked her.  He leaned closer, kissing a path around her neck and down to her breasts.  He unbuttoned her blouse and pushed her bra aside, taking her hard nipples into his mouth one and then the other. 

“Oh Deacon no, I really have to go.”

“Not till you’re properly punished.” He laughed.  His arm, which had been resting gently on her stomach, began to move down her body.  Before she knew what he was doing, her pants were unzipped and his hand was inside her panties. 

“Oh God Deacon, that feels so good.” She moaned.

“Imagine how much better it will be when I get my dick inside you.  Come on Bridget.  Let’s get down to it huh?”

“Later, please Deacon later.  I need to pass this exam.” She pleaded as she extricated his hand from her panties. 

“You’re going to really owe me Bridget.” He teased.  “Tonight I think I’ll teach you some new tricks.  Will you like that?”

“Oh yes.” She gasped.  “Oh yes Deacon.”

He gave her a slap on her bottom and laughed.  “Go to school little girl.  We’ll play later.”

“What will you do today?” She asked him.

“Not much, not unless you got your Daddy to give me that job.”

“He will Deacon, I’ll see him again after the test.  He knows that I’m not joking.  You’re a part of the family and you belong in the family business.”

“Good.” He said with a satisfied grin.  “But Bridget, nothing too tiring.  I want to have all my energy for when I come home to you.”

“Yeah.” She grinned.  “I won’t be late.”

 

 

Brooke was glad that she had dressed as she had and brought extra water with her.  The hike was longer than she had expected and harder too.  She knew that she’s lost some of her energy due to the lack of nutrition, but she shocked herself by needing so many breaks.  “Maybe you’re right Nick, maybe I should have waited for you.” She took a gulp of the water and looked up.  The summit seemed so far away and she had begun to question herself. What was the point? What did she expect to find?  So far she had found some berries, but not knowing if the were safe she had only picked a few to bring with her.  They had learned that if the left them out for the birds they would soon know if they were safe or not.  Their instincts seemed to teach them what to stay away from and Brooke and Nick followed their lead.  So far they had found one edible berry, but it was sour and gave them both upset stomachs, so they had not become part of their diet.  “Maybe these will be different.” Brooke wondered aloud.  She untied the bandana and then tightened her ponytail.  “Let’s go Brooke, there’s more to see today and you gotta earn your supper.” So with determination she continued her climb.

 

 

“You’ve got to talk to him.  This has gone on too long Perry, I’m tired and I want to go home.  The least you can do it let me off somewhere where I can catch a plane.  Let him keep going if he needs to.  But you know as well as I do that we’ll never find them.  Please don’t think I’m heartless, I’m just a realist.” Carla implored the ship’s captain.

“I’ll make sure we make port at the closest place Ms. Darvers.  I know how frustrated you be, but Ridge, he still has hopes, he say he talk to her at night.  And he pay me well, I can’t abandon him now.  But we will get you to land.”

“When?” Carla sighed.  “We’re so far from any land. Oh Perry, please talk to him and let’s head back.  I can’t take this anymore.  I never should have listened to him in the first place.” She looked at him with eyes that were still pleading her case.  Then she turned to look out at the water.  “How far away are we from land? Be honest.”

“Pretty far, Ridge had this feeling so we came this way, but no land for miles.”

“Shit.” She muttered.  Then she started sniffing the air.  “What’s that?”

“What’s what?” Perry asked her.

“Something smells like it’s burning.”

“Oh dat.” Perry looked at the controls.  “Engine overheating again. We gotta shut it down for a bit.”

“Your engine is overheating?” She screeched.  “We’re in the middle of nowhere and the engine is overheating?  Perry this is serious.  You shut it down and cool it off and then get us to land! I don’t care what Ridge wants! I’m demanding that you do this! I insist upon it!”

 

 

“Finally.” Brooke said triumphantly as she reached the summit.  She smiled to herself and took a well-deserved gulp of water.  Then she took in the horizon.  If they hadn’t been trapped Brooke might have thought it was one of the most beautiful sights she had ever seen.  The changing colors of the blue Caribbean were breathtaking, the green of the island and the white sand beaches held her breathless.  But to her dismay, as far as the eye could see there was nothing but water.  “Okay, but we’re not any worse off than we were before.” Brooke told herself.  She sat down and slowly took in the view again.  “No ships, no planes, no anything.” She sighed.  “At least we know.”  She looked up at the sun.  It was starting to make it’s decent.  Brooke knew that she should too, that is if she wanted to get back before darkfall.   She stopped to get her bearings and found the shelter and their beach.  Then she decided to find a different way to get back.  “Maybe I can find some, oh my.” She said as her eyes widened.  “Is that what I think it is?”

 

 

Sweat poured down his back as Nick stood back and examined his raft.  It was coming along even better than he had hoped.  But would it float? He had no idea and the thought of all the work sinking into the ocean made him laugh.  “Who was I fooling?  Brooke was right, it was a crazy idea, but at least it kept me busy.  Now I need to take care of her.  Time to do some fishing.” He took a gulp of his water and then poured the rest over his head.  He grabbed the spear and headed to the beach, hoping that he would succeed and be able to greet Brooke with a couple of good-sized fish.

 

 

The bar was dark and smoky and just the way he liked it.  Deacon Sharpe was in his element, he was more at home now than he was in any other situation.  He lifted his glass to his mouth, about to let the warm liquid burn it’s way down his throat when he felt lips on his neck.  “Hey baby, what kept you so long?” Deacon asked as he pulled the woman onto his lap. 

“Sorry Deac, I got hung up at work. Mmmm, you’re sure ready for me.” She giggled as she squirmed on his lap. 

“More ready than you could ever imagine.  I swear if I have to f*ck that kid much longer without a payoff I’m gonna slit my throat.” 

“She’s a cute kid and she is your wife.”

“My RICH wife.” Deacon reminded her.  “She’s my ticket to the good life and I am not quitting till I have everything I want, everything.”

“I don’t wanna talk about her.  Let’s go up to your apartment and get busy.” The woman purred.

“Not my apartment Jenny, Deacon Sharpe will never live that life again.  But we can use it.”

“Let’s hurry, I’m really hot for you.” She reached to stroke his already rock hard member. 

“And I want you too.” He crushed her mouth with his.  “Damn woman, you got the best mouth in LA.  You gonna show old Deac just what you can do with it?”

“That and more.” She purred.  “Much, much more.”

 

 

The minute she walked into the room Thorne knew he had found her.  He was immediately taken with her long legs, her beautiful, long dark hair and when she looked at him he gazed into the most beautiful blue eyes he had ever seen.  She was exotic and yet she had an appeal that he knew would sell worldwide as well as in the States.  He walked up to her and extended his hand.  “I’m Thorne Forrester. Laura said you were lovely but she didn’t even come close.  Please sit down and we’ll talk.” She gave him a sly, catlike smile and sat down, crossing her legs, exposing more of her creamy skin.  “Have you been modeling long?  Do you have much experience?” He asked.  “Not that that is too important, we can teach you all you need to know.  Did Laura tell you what I was looking for?” She nodded at him and he smiled.  “You’re from New York, are you willing to relocate?  This is a real job, not a one time shoot.  We’d need you for print ads, TV, live shows, the works.  There will be other models but you’d be the lead model, the spokeswoman.  We don’t have a lot of time so I really need to know if this is something that interests you, if you think you can do it.  So what do you say?”

Her voice was like crystal.  “I can.” She said. 

“Wow, you, well you don’t sound like New York.”

“And how would New York sound?” She gave him a lilting laugh.  “I work out of New York Mr. Forrester, I do not come from New York.”

“No, no I can see that.  Where are you from? I can’t place your accent, that is an accent isn’t it?”

“A slight one.  But I prefer to keep my family out of my business.  Let’s just say that I am a US citizen from foreign roots.”

“How old are you?”

“Does it matter?  I thought a woman’s age was part of her illusion.”

“Well, that may be true okay, but there are child labor laws and.”

“Do I LOOK like a child?” She stopped him.

“No, but well, you are young, that I can see.”
“I’m legal Mr. Forrester, and that is just about all you need to know.”

Thorne was a little annoyed at her attitude, but he wanted her, she was everything he had been looking for and more.  That and very exotic.  The young woman intrigued him, but she was not going to get the upper hand.  “Do you want this job or not?” He asked her.  “Because if you are interested, you’re going to have to be a little more open with me.”

“All right, what do you want to know?” Her eyes seemed to bore their way into him. 

“Well, how about something easy, your name?” He laughed.

“Tatiana.”  She replied.

“That’s a lovely name.  It’s Russian, isn’t it?”

“It’s not my birth name, it’s my professional name.”

“So you’re not Russian?”

“I already told you, I’m an American.  Why is my heritage so important to you?”

“And why is keeping it a mystery so important to you?” He asked.

“A woman needs to be a mystery.” She smiled at him.  “My name is Tatiana, Laura is my agent, I am legal and I want this job.  Do I have it?”

“Yes.” He said, surprising himself. 

“Good.” She extended her small hand.  Thorne wasn’t sure if she expected him to kiss it or shake it so he simply held it gently and then let go. 

“Can you start today?” He asked.

“So soon?” She asked.

“Is that going to be a problem?” He wondered if he had made a mistake.

“Tomorrow.  I have plans today.  I’ll report to Forrester tomorrow at any time you request.”

“Eight AM.” He told her.  “I’ll be waiting at security for you.”

“And I will be there.” She told him.  “Thank you Mr. Forrester, you won’t be sorry.”

She got up and walked out of the restaurant.  It seemed to Thorne that all eyes were on her.  He knew he made the right decision.  He also wondered what secrets she was hiding. 

 

 

“Why are we still sitting here?” Ridge demanded of Perry.  “I thought we were going to try and make some headway today.  Carla is getting antsy so I really would like to cover some ground.”

“De engine, it overheating again Ridge.  I need to make some repairs and then I need to get to a dock and do a real overhaul.”

“Perry, Perry, Perry, this is unacceptable.  I told Brooke we’d find her this week, I told her we were on our way.  I can’t let her down.”

“You told her?” Perry cocked his eyebrow.  “Ridge, you scaring Carla and now you scaring me too.”

“I’m not crazy Perry.  You just don’t understand how close Brooke and I are.  We can communicate without being in the same room, without words.  I talk to her and she talks to me.  She’s counting on me man, and I’m counting on you.  We need to push it.  We need to find her now.  She’s getting scared and she’s getting weak.  She may be alone, Carla’s man may not be with her, but don’t tell Carla.  But Brooke is alive and she’s just holding on now.  She’s not strong, she doesn’t know how to survive out there.  We have to find her soon, before it’s too late.  Now start the engine please.  I’m sure it’s cool by now.”

“I’ll give it a shot Ridge.  But no promises.”

Ridge stood back while Perry cranked the engine.  It choked a little but started.  It gave a strong, healthy sounding purr.  “See.” Ridge smiled.

“You’re right, we’re back in business.” Perry told him.  “But we’ll take it slow.  I don’t want to tempt fate.”

“Just get me to Brooke.”

“Which way now Ridge?” Perry asked.

Ridge looked down at the map and pointed.  “There.”  He said, pointing at a spot in the middle of the water.  “She’s going to be there.”

“Whatever you say.” Perry sighed.  He then started the boat, but steered in a course just off where Ridge had pointed, in a path that would take him to some populated land.

Chapter 12

 

 

He heard her before he saw her.  She was hooting and hollering and laughing as she came through the thick jungle and Nick felt deep relief.  The sun was getting lower and he had been getting worried.  Now she was back and he could relax.

“Hey Magellan! Hey come help me! I scored big time!” She called out. 

Nick got off his knees and stood.  The blood rushed to his head.  He had been bent over working on the raft for a long time and he was stiff and tired.  “Hold your horses, it’s not like I’ve been taking a nap Princess.” He answered in a sarcastic tone.  But he was very happy to hear her voice.  In the hours that she had been gone he had missed her, really missed her.  His knees cracked as he stretched his muscles.  Then he headed towards the pathway up the mountain to meet her. 

 

 

Brooke wiped her forehead with her sleeve again.  She was hot, she was tired but she had an enormous sense of accomplishment.  She turned back to look at the large hand of bananas.  Most of them were green, but that was good, they would last longer.  There were many more up on the mountain but it was a long, hard trek and Brooke wanted to put off a repeat trip as long as possible.  She had cut down more than they would need but she had been so thrilled at her discovery she couldn’t seem to stop herself.  “Nick! Are you coming? You’re not going to believe what I found!” She called out. 

“Whoa! You sure did score!” Nick said excitedly.  “Princess you really did great.  Bananas, I love bananas.” He ran to her and pulled her into his arms and swung her around and around.  “You’re fantastic, you’re really fantastic.” He finally stopped spinning her but instead of lowering her to the ground he pulled her closer against him and let his mouth crush her smaller mouth. 

“Nick, Nick.” She laughed as she pulled free.  “I’m so dizzy I might throw up on you.”

“Okay.” He gave in and gently set her down, making sure to keep his arms around her as she regained her balance.  “I’m proud of you.”

“It was nothing.” She said with a blush.  “You would have found them if you had gone, besides, I couldn’t have stayed here and made a raft.  How’s it coming?”

“Not too badly.” He admitted proudly.  “Promise you won’t laugh.”

“I promise.” She let out a deep sigh and then a yawn.  “I’m so hot and so tired and so hungry.  Can you believe I lugged these things all the way down and didn’t even stop to eat one?”

“Why don’t you have one now and then take a nice cool swim in the waterfall and I’ll make dinner.”

“Ugh, I have to fish now too.” She moaned.  “I’m so damn tired.”

“You don’t have to fish.” He frowned.  “Give me a little credit will you?  You DID ask me to fish and make you dinner and I will.”

“Nick it’s late, the sun is going down, you’re not as good at it as I am, if I don’t catch a fish fast we won’t have any and I just don’t think bananas alone are gonna do it for me tonight.”

“You have no faith in me.” He shook his head at her.

“I do Nick.” She protested.  “Oh what the hell, I’m so tired I’ll probably fall right asleep anyway.  You go ahead.  I’m sure you’ll catch something.  I’m going to go clean up.”

“Okay.” He pulled her over and gave her a kiss.  “Then while we eat you can tell me everything about what you did and saw okay?”

“No wild boar.” She said with a chuckle.  “No tracks or anything.”
“Smart ass.” He said with a playful pat to her butt.  “Go clean up and by the time you’re changed I’ll have dinner waiting for you, even if it is just fruit salad.”

“Thanks Nick.” She smiled and touched his lips.  Then she slowly walked towards the campsite.

 

 

Ridge turned at the sound of footsteps behind him. He knew Perry would be angry, he had trusted him and Ridge had betrayed him, but this was his trip and he was going to do it his way.  He had set the course that HE wanted, not the one Perry planned on and he’d have to deal with it.  He turned back to face the horizon and sighed.  “Brooke, when will it be? Today? Tomorrow? Soon, it has to be soon.”

“You talkin’ to her again?” Perry asked with a hint of concern. 

“I’m not crazy Perry and I’m not actually talking to her.  I guess you just don’t understand.”

“I’m trying.” He said.  Then he looked at his compass and frowned.  “What the hell you be doin’? You took us off course! I told you where to go and you defied me. You fool! We need a radio, we need repairs and you’ve taken us further away from help!”

“Calm down, we’re fine.” Ridge said with a frown.  “I have a feeling.”

“Damn you and your feelings, your feelings are going to get us all killed.  We need to get to land, we need repairs and we need supplies.  I trusted you Ridge, I trusted you and you let me down.  Now it’s late and getting dark and we’re no closer to land than before I fell asleep.”

“The engine has been running smoothly, you worry too much.” Ridge admonished.  “Just a little further this way and then we can do what you want.”

“That girl.” Perry pointed down the stairs.  “That girl, she going crazy, she wanna go home, she think you crazy and so my friend do I.”

“I’m crazy for wanting to find the woman I love?” Ridge angrily asked.

“No, you crazy for taking too many risks.  Now from now on you listen to me.  We get repairs, let the poor girl off and you and I come back out.  You understand?”

“I think if we keep going this way we’ll find her.” Ridge said, completely ignoring the captain.

“We’re turning now Ridge.  We’re turning back to land and civilization whether you like it or not, now you go sit down and be quiet!”

Perry pushed him away from the controls and checked the settings.  “Damn fool.” He muttered.

 

 

“Thanks so much for staying Megan.” Thorne said as he put the papers into the envelope.  “It all happened so fast, I had no idea I would just find her, but I did.”

“I hope she’s everything you say she is.” The woman said with a smile.

“She is, and more.” Thorne grinned.

“Am I noticing more than a professional interest?” She laughed.

“Hmmm, it’s possible.” Thorne winked.  “Megan she is smart and beautiful but very mysterious.”

“And that’s the image you want for the tribute line?” She wondered.

“She’s not what I set out looking for, but the second she walked in I knew I had to have her.”

“Had to have her? You or Forrester?” She asked again.

“Forrester, honestly I wasn’t thinking about me, I’m still not.  She is kinda young okay.”

“How young? Do we need Jonathan involved?”

“No, she’s not that young, but too young for me I suppose.” He sighed. “But she’s starting tomorrow and that’s a good thing.”

“Have you told your father?” She asked him.

“I called him, he wants to meet her but he said he trusts my judgement.”

“You sound hesitant.  Why wouldn’t he trust you Thorne?”

He looked at her and laughed softly.  “I’ve always been the second brother, second born, second best.  It was always Ridge who did these things and they all count on him.  He’s going through something I suppose, but he’s not being very reliable okay.  I guess I’m not used to being the one that they come to.”

“They’ve all come to you for years Thorne, you just never noticed.  You’re the glue that holds Forrester together, you’re the level headed one, you’re the one who makes things happen.  I’m not surprised at all that you came through.  I knew you would.”

“You’re the best.” Thorne said with a hug.  “No wonder Brooke thought so highly of you.”

Megan looked up and saw tears in his eyes.  “You still love her don’t you?”

“I miss her Megan.  Brooke and I, well I guess it wasn’t destined to work, but I did love her and I really miss her.  I envy Ridge.”

“Ridge?” She asked.

“No one questions his right to miss her, to grieve.  No one even thinks it’s odd that he’s combing the Caribbean looking for a dream.  But me? If I say anything about her they act like I’m insane.  Did she ever love me Megan?  You knew her well, did she?” He asked with hope and desperation in his eyes.
“I can’t believe you even asked me that Thorne, of course she loved you.” Megan reassured him. 

“Sometimes it seems like the whole thing was a fantasy.  You know, I never should have let her go, I never should have let my anger and jealousy take over.  I should have fought Ridge, I should have fought for her.”

“Don’t beat yourself up over it now Thorne, at the time you did what was best for yourself, and for Brooke.  But just know she did love you very much.”

 

 

Deacon threw down his keys on the occasional table and walked into the living room. His senses were assaulted by the smell of food cooking, and it wasn’t something he was in the mood for.  “Stupid kid trying to impress me with her gourmet shit.” He muttered.  “Bridget! Bridget, I’m home.” He called out.  “Now come running in like a good little Edith Bunker.” He said to himself with a laugh. 

“Deacon!” Bridget ran in and up to him.  Her arms circled his neck and she looked up to him for a kiss.  “I’ve missed you, you’re late.”

“Do I have a curfew?” He asked sarcastically.

“No, I just thought.”

“I was busy.” He cut her off.  “Stop hanging all over me Bridget.” He pulled himself free.  “Get me a beer.”

“Sure Deacon.” She smiled and ran quickly into the kitchen.

“Okay Archie.” Deacon chuckled in his best Edith Bunker imitation.  He sat on the couch and kicked off his boots.  “Bridget, what are you doing out there?” He called to her.

“Getting your beer.” She scampered in and handed him the bottle.  “And I’m um, making dinner.”

“I had a pizza at the bar.” He told her.

“Oh Deacon, why didn’t you wait?  I like having dinner together.”

“I was hungry, I ate.” He pulled a pack of cigarettes out of his pocket.  “You go ahead, I’ll watch you.”

“Can’t you just eat a little?  I made it all special for you.” She begged him.

“Bridget.” He took her hand and looked her in the eyes.  “I didn’t marry you for your cooking, now if you’re hungry, you go eat, otherwise just sit here with me.  I had a long day.”

“I’m sorry, I just wanted to make you happy.” Her eyes watered up and Deacon’s rolled. 

“Bridget, I don’t like that fancy stuff.” He picked up his beer and took a gulp.  “So did you talk to your father?”

“I will.” She nervously promised.

“Look, I’m getting tired of working so hard at an unrewarding job, so the sooner you get me in Forrester the happier I’ll be, understand?

“Yeah.” She said. “I’ll talk to him tomorrow.  He has no choice, he knows that.”

“Your evil stepmother doesn’t like me.” He said, changing the subject.  “You don’t complain about me to her do you?”

“What would I have to complain about?” She smiled.  “I love you Deacon.”

“Yeah.” He smiled and took her hand.  She was a good kid, he liked her and he didn’t want to hurt her, especially now.  “What did you make for dinner?” He asked.

“Meatloaf and mashed potatoes, string beans and dinner rolls.” She said with wide eyes.

“I guess I could eat.” He stood up and let her lead him to the table. 

 

 

Nick smiled as he looked down at Brooke, she was curled into a little ball on the cot, sound asleep, naked as a baby and as appealing as he had ever seen her.  He leaned over and kissed her tenderly on the cheek.  “Hey Princess, your dinner awaits you.”

“Nick.” She yawned and stretched.  “I fell asleep. I guess I didn’t realize just how tired I was.”

“Too tired to eat?” He asked.  “You did a lot of climbing, I think you need to try and eat something.”

“Actually I feel a lot better.” She sat up.  “I just needed that little power nap.”  She reached for her sarong.  “Did you catch a fish or is it fruit for dinner?”

“Well, you did want bananas.” He said with a laugh.

“That’s fine, you tried, that’s what counts.”  She stood up and tied the sarong around her waist.  “It was so hot in those clothes, but they did protect me.”

“Next time we go together.” Nick insisted. 

“I suppose you’re right.  I just wanted to go right away, you know how that it.” She giggled.  “And you did make progress on the raft.”

“That I did.” He agreed.  “Come on.” He took her hand.  “I’m starved.”

“I’m pretty hungry myself.  Maybe I should try to catch a fish.”

“Look, it’s dark, we’ll have one for breakfast.” He linked her arm with his. 

“You’re right once more. I guess I get a little crazy when I’m hungry and tired.  The fruit will be perfect.”  Together they walked out to the fire.  Brooke squinted at the makeshift pot that rested on top of the rocks that made their stove.  “Are you cooking the fruit?” She asked.

“You have so little faith in me Princess.  Some day you’ll appreciate me you know.”

“I do appreciate you.” She said.  She walked closer to the fire and looked down.  She let out a squeal.  “Is that what I think it is?”

“If you think it’s a lobster it is.” He winked.  “In fact, if you think it’s two lobsters you’d really be right.”

“You got a lobster? Oh my God Nick, two lobsters!” She threw her arms around him and hugged him.  “You’re my hero.”

“I have to admit, I impressed myself.”

“Tell me how you did it. Please.” Brooke begged with wide eyes.

“And have you know my one little secret? Come now Brooke, that’s the one thing that I can do and you haven’t done.  I can’t give up that advantage can I?”

“I suppose not.” She smiled.  “But I have a contribution too.” She got up.

“Where are you going?” He asked as he grabbed her hand.

“Never mind, you did this and now I have something special to add.” She smiled and let go of his hand.  Nick’s eyes followed her until she had left his sight.

 

 

“Did I hear an argument?” Carla asked Ridge when she joined him on deck. 

“Nah, Perry was just a little loud.” Ridge lied. 

“Ridge.” She frowned.  “I’m not stupid.”

“Okay, we had a disagreement about what direction to head, but it’s settled now.”

“I hope we’re headed in.  I have to get home, I’ve wasted way too much time chasing a dream.” She sat down and looked out to sea.  A sense of sadness came over her.  “I don’t blame you Ridge.  I wanted to believe too, but it’s over, it’s time we were honest with ourselves, they’re dead, we aren’t going to get them back.”  She reached down and started to twist the ring on her finger again. 

“I haven’t given up.” Ridge said softly.  “I don’t know how you can if you love him.”

“I’m a realist Ridge.  It was crazy to come in the first place but I had to.  I miss him so much but I need to face the truth and I need to start and build a new life, one without Nick.”

“You can give up if you want, I never will.” Ridge insisted.

“What about your wife and children? What is this doing to them?” Carla asked.  “You know, we’ve spent a lot of time together and you’ve barely mentioned them.”

“I miss my kids.” Ridge admitted.  “And I know this is tearing them apart.  But Carla, I still feel her, I know she’s alive, I know it here.” He touched his chest. “She’s alive, she needs me and I won’t stop till I find her.  I wish someone would believe me.”

“I tried.” Carla admitted sadly.  “I wanted to Ridge, I wanted to very much, but I’m just too realistic.  They couldn’t survive alone on the ocean and we haven’t found them on any island we’ve seen.  We’re miles away from the crash site.”

“But what if the plane floated or drifted?  What if that wasn’t really the crash site? Carla I communicate with her!” Ridge insisted.

“Maybe it’s just wishful thinking.” She said sadly.  “Look, I’m sorry I was so angry.  I’m trying to understand, but I need to get home.  So why not just take me back somewhere that I can catch a plane?  Then you and Perry can keep going.  You don’t need me.  You never did.”

“You’re giving up on Nick?” Ridge asked.

“Nick is dead, it’s time I faced that and dealt with it.  I’ve been in denial too long Ridge, I believed you could be right and I haven’t let him go.  I have to do it now, for my own sanity.”

“I’m sorry you feel this way, I really am.  I know Brooke is alive.  I know it and I am not going to stop until I find her.” Ridge walked to the side of the boat and looked out.  “She’s out there somewhere and she’s scared and she’s suffering and she needs me.  She needs me.”

 

 

“What do you have there Princess?” Nick asked Brooke when she returned.  She had one hand behind her back.  “Don’t tell me you found something else. Hmmmm, can’t be a wild boar, that you couldn’t hide there.” He laughed.

“No, no wild boar.” She giggled.  “Chardonnay though.” She showed him the bottle.  “I found it the first day.  I hadn’t thought about it in a while but with this dinner, I just thought it was time for our treat.  I’ve had it buried in some mud under the waterfall, it’s surprisingly cool.  Now if we can figure out a way to open it.”

“With all we’ve figured out that should be easy.” Nick winked.  “But wine? Are you sure that you should be drinking?”

Brooke’s eyes sparked with laughter. “Oh Nick, don’t be so silly.  It’s one bottle of wine.  That’s it, no more, once it’s gone, it’s gone.  I am not going to turn into an alcoholic or anything.  Think of it this way, I’m not getting the vitamins I probably should be taking, I’m not getting many things I need.  I bet that there are some values here.  Besides, we deserve a treat.  You’re not going to guilt me out of this.”

“I wasn’t trying to.” He said in a serious tone.  “I just thought it was bad for the baby and.”

“This entire island is bad for the baby, everything I do every single day is bad for the baby, this is for me Nick, please don’t ruin this, please.”

“Not in a million years.” He gave her a smile and took the bottle from her.  “Now if you find a keg of rum and spend all day drinking that.” He laughed.

“Silly man.” She giggled. “Hey, I have another idea.”

“Another? What? Chocolate Mousse for dessert? I’m up for it.” Nick teased.

“Let’s make tonight special, really special.”

“Hmmm, I can do that.” He pulled her to him and claimed her mouth. When they finally stopped for breath he laughed.  “If it gets much more special I’ll have to go for some new lobsters, these guys will cook down to nothing.”

“Let’s get dressed up, let’s make it a really nice celebration.”

“Sorry Princess, I didn’t bring a tux.” He shrugged.

“I’d just like tonight to be a night we remember forever.” She said softly.

“Brooke?” Nick pulled back and stared at her.  “What’s going on?”

“I don’t know, just a feeling, a strange feeling.  It’s probably nothing, but can we just celebrate each other tonight?”

“I um, don’t have a rich assortment of clothes.” He laughed.

“Please.” She begged.

“Okay Princess, we’ll make it special.” He agreed.  “I’ll meet you back here in about ten minutes?”

“Fifteen.” She said with a touch to his nose.  “This will be fun, I promise.”

 

 

“Shouldn’t you be getting some sleep?” Carla asked Ridge.

“I don’t think Perry is going to let me drive anymore anyway.” Ridge answered with a sigh.  “I know I’m right Carla.”

“It’s late, it’s getting dark and I’m getting hungry.  Want anything?” She offered.

“I wonder if Brooke has enough food. I bet she has to eat leaves and bugs, God Carla, I’m so worried about her.  She can’t survive out there.  I hope you keep your faith because she needs someone to help her and I’m hoping your Nick is at least providing some food or shelter.”

“Nick?” She laughed.  “Oh Ridge, if you’re looking for Nick to be the hero you’re banking on the wrong man.  He was born and raised in New York City, he doesn’t know anything about survival skills.  He’s a wonderful negotiator, he’s an awesome business man, he’s sharp, he has a very quick wit, but he’s helpless in the outdoors.”

“You’re speaking in the present tense.” Ridge pointed out.

“Perhaps you’re more convincing than I realized, or perhaps a part of me is still not willing to completely give up. But Ridge, in my head I know he’s dead.”

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to upset you.” Ridge apologized.  “I won’t try to convince you to stay, maybe I’m nuts holding onto you like a lucky charm.  It makes no difference really, Brooke IS alive and I WILL find her.”

“I hope you do and if not, I pray you find peace.” Carla turned to leave.

“Don’t go.” Ridge grabbed her hand. “I don’t want to be alone right now.”

“I’m just going to get something to eat.” She promised.  “I’ll be back.” And with a smile she went below deck.

 

 

Eric looked up at the woman in his doorway and smiled.  As always, she looked ravishing.  “Taylor, to what do I owe this surprise?”

“Hello Eric.” She smiled and joined him in an embrace.  “I wasn’t sure you’d be in, I just took a chance.  Thomas won a swimming trophy and he so much wanted to show it off.  Seeing that his father is not around we just.” She stopped and shook her head.

“Where is he? I’d love to see his trophy.”

“He’s showing his Uncle Thorne.” The proud mother answered.  “He was wonderful Eric, you would have been so proud.”

“I am, and why didn’t you tell us?  Stephanie and I both would have been there.”

“I only had two tickets.” She apologized.  “Catherine came with me.  I hope you don’t mind.”

“Not at all.” He smiled at her.  “I do wish Ridge had been there.”

“I’ve learned not to count on him for anything anymore.” Taylor explained.  “It’s official you know, we’re divorced.  If he calls you tell him will you?”

“Taylor I.” Eric stumbled.

“Don’t.” She took his hand.  “It’s not your fault, I know you supported us.  But it’s over now, it’s time everyone accepted it.”

“Are you so sure? Taylor honey, think about it. Once he comes to his senses and comes home he’s going to regret losing you, losing you and his family.  Maybe you can make it work.  You still love him.  Don’t you?”

“I won’t play second best, not to a dead woman that I can’t compete against. I won’t go back to that life.  I’ll never keep his children from him but Ridge and I are over.  I’m sorry, I know you don’t like hearing this.”

“I know you and Ridge were happy.  I know how much he loves you.”

“He did, but something happened and we can never go back.  I do feel badly for your children, yours and Brooke’s.” She explained.  “He hasn’t told them what he’s up to has he?”

“No, but they’re suspicious. And now with you and Ridge breaking up.”

“Don’t do that Eric, I don’t need the guilt from your children, I have enough from my own.”

“I’m sorry.” He said softly.  “I didn’t mean that.  I just wish you and Ridge could work this out.  Won’t you give him another chance when he comes home?”

“Have you heard from him?” She asked.  “They say his cell phone is either not working or out of range.  I thought he might have called from the ship’s radio.”

“No, not in a while, but I imagine he’s getting frustrated by now.”

“He loves her Eric.  Sometimes I wonder if he ever really loved me.”

“Now that’s pure nonsense.” Eric scoffed.  “He loved you and he still loves you.  This thing with Brooke, it’s crazy, it was brought upon by grief, that’s all.”

“No Eric.” She told him.  “He loved her and wanted her long before she died.  Her death just became the death of our marriage, there was no reason to hang on I suppose.  He was so consumed with his grief for Brooke he forgot us.  There is nothing to return to.  Our marriage is as dead as Brooke is.  I accept that, you all have to too.”

“I won’t push you.” Eric sadly surrendered.  “As long as you promise not to cut us out.”

“Never.” She smiled. 

“How are you Taylor?  How are YOU dealing with this?”

“Surprisingly better than I ever thought I would.  In fact, if you promise to keep this between us, I know Stephanie wouldn’t approve.”

“I can be discreet.” Eric assured her.

“I have a date tonight.” She smiled.  “So what do you say we go to Thorne’s office and you can see the trophy so I can go home and get ready.” Her eyes were twinkling and in a strange way, Eric was very happy for her. 

“Let’s go.” He said to his former daughter-in-law.

 

“Wow.” Nick stood and looked at Brooke as she approached him.  She looked like an angel, just like the vision he had seen when she had nursed him back to health that first few days.  “Wow.” He repeated.

A smile crossed Brooke’s face.  She wanted to look special.  She didn’t understand why but she had felt a sense of foreboding since awakening from her nap.  Not one of danger, but one of pure and deep, intense sadness.  She fought to push the thoughts away as she smiled at Nick again.  She had dug deep into her suitcase and pulled out the one good, lacy white bra and half slip as well as matching panties.   Somehow she had cut the slip into a makeshift sarong and the white, against her deeply tanned skin had given her the effect she had hoped for.

“They’re right.” Nick said to her.

“About what?” Brooke laughed.

“More is less or whatever.” He laughed.  “You’re a vision, an angel.”

Brooke smiled and looked at Nick. He had shaved for her, he had washed his hair and put on his torn but clean shirt and then had used some material to create a necktie.  “You’re adorable.” She grinned.  “Thank you Nick.”

“I opened the wine.” He handed her a coconut shell.  “Shall we toast?”

“Let me.” She said. 

“Okay.”

Brooke held up her shell.  “Nick Parker, to you, my hero, my friend, a man who means more to me than I ever thought anyone could. You’ve made our time here, which should have been a horrible, devastating experience, you’ve made it into a time I will always treasure. You’ve brought me joy, you’ve brought me peace and I will always love you for that, always.” She looked away as tears streamed from her eyes.

“Princess, what is it?” He reached for her hand.  “You make it all sound so final.  Is there something you’re not telling me? Brooke? Please, be honest.”

“It’s nothing. I’m just feeling melancholy I suppose.  I’m sorry, let’s just celebrate and have fun and enjoy our wonderful meal and each other okay?” She put her arms around him and held him.

“Look!” Nick pointed up.  “A shooting star, make a wish.”

 

 

“Make a wish!” Carla said to Ridge as she pointed up in the sky. 

“A shooting star, that’s a good omen.” Ridge closed his eyes tightly.

“I hope it comes true.” Carla said softly.

“I didn’t tell you want it was, that’s bad luck.”

“You didn’t have to tell me.” Carla answered him.  “I’m sure I had the same wish.”

“Yeah.” Ridge smiled.  “Thanks for the sandwich, it’s good.” He was about to pick it up and take another bite when the boat started making noises and rocking.  Ridge grabbed Carla to keep her from falling.

“Smoke! There’s smoke!” She screamed.

 

 

“What did you wish for?” Nick asked Brooke.

“A hamburger.” She teased.

“And I thought you liked my lobster.” He grinned at her.  “But I can’t say I blame you.”

“When I get home, I am never going to eat any kind of seafood again, never.” Brooke swore.  “I don’t care what anyone says about red meat either, I want a nice juicy hamburger and a milkshake and ice, oh Nick I want to drink everything with ice.”

“Yeah, I miss ice, iced tea and ice cold beer and hmmm, ice cream.” He laughed.  “Seriously, I don’t know what I’ll want first.”

“I want something delicious to eat and a nice hot bath, a fluffy bed, oh Nick and my kids. I want to see my kids so badly.”

“And they miss you too.  What else Brooke, after you’ve seen your kids and had your hamburger, what then?”

“I guess I’ll have to figure out where my life is.   The world has gone on without us Nick, I’m sure they think we’re dead, I even wonder if they ever found out about that plane.”

“I could kill myself for not notifying anyone about getting on that plane.” Nick muttered,

“Don’t.” Brooke grabbed his arm.  “I’m be too lonely without you.”

“You know what I mean.”

“I know.” She agreed.  “I was so hot and so tired and so angry that all I wanted was to be off that island and somewhere civilized.”  She looked at him and started to laugh.  “And look what I got huh?”

“I’m not civil?” He asked with a pout.

“Awwwhh, the poor wounded puppy.” She leaned close and kissed him.  “You’re better than civil.  Nick I thank God every day I found you.  I would never have survived alone.”

“Wanna know a secret?” He asked.

“Yeah.”

“You would have been just fine.  I would have died.  Brooke, you saved my life and I will forever be in your debt.  But it’s more than that, what you’ve come to mean to me.”

“Shhhhh. I know.” Brooke silenced him with a tender finger to his lips.  “Don’t spoil it.”

“Okay.” He reluctantly agreed.  “So what do you think Brooke? What do you think is going to happen in your life? Things have changed.”

“Don’t I know it?” She sighed.  “Things that once seemed so important to me, they just seem meaningless.  Ambitions?  I don’t even know if I care about them anymore. I know I care about the people, those I left behind.” She looked up at him. “And those I will be leaving behind.”

“It doesn’t have to be.” Nick argued.  “There’s a baby.”

“A baby doesn’t mean a man and a woman belong with each other.  Believe me, I know that.  I learned that the hard way.”

“But I.”

“No.” Brooke stopped him again.  “Please don’t say something like I know you’re going to.  Someday we will get home and things will be so different.  We come from different worlds.”

“Not so far apart Brooke.  It’s not like I’m some uneducated garbageman or something.  You’re a businesswoman, I’m a businessman, we have more in common than you want to admit.”

“You have a fiancée, a woman who loves you, a woman that you love.  I’ve broken up a lot of relationships, I’m not proud of it.  It wasn’t all me, it wasn’t all my fault, but part of it was and at the time I didn’t even care.  All that I wanted was my own happiness.  I vowed to never do that again.”

“Carla and I, we’re not like you think.”

“You’re engaged to her Nick.  I don’t think you’re one to take something like that lightly.  Not from what I’ve learned about you.”

“I never thought about love.” He confessed.  “It just seemed right, it seemed the right thing to do.  It fit and we were comfortable.  But Princess, how can I go back to that after you?  How can you ask that of me?”

“It’s just a fantasy.” She said softly, almost too softly for Nick to hear.

“Not if we don’t want it to be.  Remember that.” He stared long and hard into her eyes.  Finally she broke contact.

“Let’s just eat. This is getting too serious.  Let’s just eat okay?” Brooke begged him.

“You got it Princess.” Nick grinned because he knew he was getting through to her.

 

 

“Deacon, you’re so wonderful.” Bridget gushed.  She reached to stroke her husband’s bare arm.  “I’m so lucky to have you.”

“Then show me Bridget.” He reached for his pack of cigarettes on the nightstand.  “Get me that job at Forrester.”

“I will, I will tomorrow, I promise.”

“I don’t mean to be so insistent Bridget but I’d have more time to spend with you if I didn’t have this dead end job at The Lair.  Speaking of which.” He smiled and got out of the bed.  He smiled as his young bride eyed his naked body with desire.  The girl was insatiable.  Much like he had heard her mother had been.  “If only.” He said.

“If only what?” Bridget wondered.

“If only I had a nice little day job I wouldn’t be leaving our nice warm bed to go to work.  So you see Bridge, you win just like I do.”

“Stay home, please Deacon, I promise you that Dad will give you the job tomorrow. Please.”

“You’re sweet babe.” He leaned over and kissed her.  “You just get me that job tomorrow and I’ll give my notice.  It wouldn’t be nice to leave them high and dry now would it?”

“I love you Deacon.” She said in desperation. 

“Keep it warm for me, we’ll get back at it when I get home if I’m not too tired.” He pulled on his pants and walked into the bathroom.  As soon as the door was closed Bridget picked up the phone and frantically punched in numbers.

“Dad, it’s me.  I want you to give Deacon that job tomorrow. I’m not kidding around.  Call me, call me or I’ll have to call Jonathan.” And with a sob she hung up the phone.

 

 

“What the hell is going on Perry?” Ridge shouted to the ship captain.  “There’s smoke and it sounded like an explosion!”

“Do I look deaf and blind Ridge?” He shouted back.  “Da engine, she blew.  I told you! I told you we needed repairs and you took us way off course and now we stuck in da middle of da damn ocean with no engine! No radio! No nothing!”

“What?” Carla screamed.  “The fire? What about the fire?”

“It’s only smoke, no fire miss, but we in trouble.  I gotta find some shore and I gotta fix her.  Damn it Ridge I told you!” He turned once more to face the embarrassed man. “You did this! You put us in this danger! You!”

“Perry stop it!” Carla’s calm voice interrupted.  Both men stopped and looked at her.  “Blaming Ridge isn’t going to help the situation.  We need to keep calm minds, we need to work together, we need to get this boat fixed well enough to reach land.  Now can you both stop fighting long enough to do that?”

“Get the damn maps Ridge.” Perry angrily instructed him. “We gotta find out where da nearest land is.”

“Go get them Ridge.” Carla told her immobile friend. “Can you navigate in the dark, without an engine?” She asked Perry.

“Looks like I have no choice do it?” He growled.  “You be paying for the repairs Ridge! You be paying for them.”

“Don’t worry about that Perry.” Carla said, trying to calm him.  “Can you get the engine back?”

“Not in da water.  I need to get her out and I need to inspect her.  Best we can hope is to drift in da right direction.”

“Dear Lord, what IS the right direction?” Carla was no panicking. 

“There!” Ridge said with a booming voice.  He pointed out to the right and both Carla and Perry turned to where he was pointing.

“Well I be damned, it sure looks like land.” Perry smiled.  “But it be miles away.  We better hope we can stay on course in that direction.”

“Can you get the engine back temporarily?  At least to get us there? Then we can get help.” Carla suggested.

“Not a populated island Miss, probably just a small rock with some trees, but if we can get to shore we can get her fixed in a few days.  Yes, we gotta steer that way and I gonna need both your help now.”

“You’ve got it.” Ridge sheepishly replied.  “You’ve got it.”

 

 

Nick smiled at Brooke when she yawned and stretched.  “You’re so tired.  Why don’t you go to bed?”

“I’m having a good time just being with you.” Brooke protested. 

“It’s been a nice evening, but we have many more ahead of us.  There’s no reason to act like this is our last night together or anything.” He lifted the bottle of wine.  “We have enough for one more glass each.”

“Glass?” She giggled.

“Um shell.” He laughed.  “You want more?”

“Why not.” She held her shell out to him.  “Those lobsters were amazing, though I do wish I had had some drawn butter.”

“And a nice big baked potato.” Nick added.

“With sour cream and chives, yum.” Brooke licked her lips.

“I’m more of a butter or cheese kinda guy.”

“So boring.” She giggled again. 

“Like you’d turn it down?”

“Mmmmm, baked skins with all the works.”

“Hot peppers?” Nick asked.

“And melted cheese.”

“And while we’re at it lets add some bacon bits.”

“Sinful, absolutely sinful.” Brooke sighed.  “And how about asparagus with hollandaise sauce?”

“A green salad with big, ripe, red tomatoes.”

“Vinaigrette dressing?” She asked.

“Nah, Blue Cheese or Ranch or something really bad.” Nick moaned.  “God you’re making me hungry.”

“And you’re not doing it to me?” She laughed.  “But Nick, if we’re going that route can we change the lobster?”

“Steak, a big juicy steak, rare, thick and rare with those skinny little onion ring things on top.”

“Oh God.” She moaned.  “Bernaise sauce, I need Bernaise sauce.”

“Lots and lots of freshly ground pepper and creamed spinach on the side.  And forget the baked potatoes, I want french fries, those thick cut kind, nice and crispy and a little bit greasy too.”

“And a chlorestoral pill chaser?” Brooke teased him.

“Hey, this is my fantasy and hopefully my reality too someday.”

“Do you really eat that way?” She frowned.

“Strawberry Shortcake, mountains of whipped cream, light, flaky cake that breaks apart when your fork touches it and no, but this is my fantasy so shut up.” He laughed.

“Fine.  I’ll keep my finger on the phone to call 911.”

“And extra whipped cream.”

“Extra? Why?” She laughed.

“So I can cover those beautiful breasts of yours and lick it all off.”

Brooke turned bright red and felt a warmth between her legs.  “Then I get some too to slather on you.”

“Wicked.” He chuckled.  “I thought you were worried about chlorestoral.”

“Not the first night.” She laughed.  “But I think I need chocolate.  Something rich and sinful.”

“Well how about a mousse?” Nick suggested.

“Nope, not sinful enough. I want one of those flourless cakes, you know the kind, they’re warm and gooey and just taste like a zillion calories.”

“Princess the day we get home you and I are going to eat all that and more, that I promise you.”

“Nick.” She suddenly became serious.

“Now you listen to me.” He said sternly.  “You may decide to make your future without me, but you’re not going to just walk out of my life, I won’t let you.  We deserve this and we need to have it, together.”

“Yeah.” She sighed as she leaned into his arms.  She smiled and closed her eyes, savoring the warmth of his body and the sweetness of his breath.  Her mind and body calmed and sleep was starting to overtake her. She cuddled closer to Nick, unconsciously her lips were on his neck, kissing and murmuring soft words.  Suddenly she just about jumped out of her skin and sat up straight.  “Ridge.” She gasped.

 

 

Deacon put down his glass and stubbed out his cigarette.  He turned to the bartender and frowned.  “Are you sure she hasn’t been in tonight?”

“I wouldn’t lie Deac, she never showed.  Maybe someone told her about your pretty little wife.” He laughed and winked.

“Inconsequential.”  Deacon frowned.  “She’s purely a matter of convenience.  But if that bitch things she can play games with Deacon Sharpe she has another think coming, oh my.” He watched the attractive young brunette enter the establishment.  “Looks like my evening has taken a turn for the better.”

“Who’s she?” The bartender asked Deacon.

“I don’t know, but I fully intend to know her intimately by the time this night is over.”

“Deac, be careful.” He warned his boss. 

“Oh don’t worry, I have protection.”

“That’s not exactly what I meant.”

“Ted, stop being a mother hen.  Now what does she look like she’d enjoy?” Deacon asked him. “White wine? Something sweet?”

“A Shirley Temple.” Ken said with a frown.

“She’s not that young.”

“Hmmm, I guess looking at your wife you would feel that way.”

“Watch it Ken.” Deacon warned.  “Get me two glasses of wine and tell Alex she can close up if I get busy.”

“She’ll love that.” Ken said sarcastically as poured the wine.

“Not my problem.” Deacon smiled and took the glasses.  “Oh and tell Alex to make sure no one goes upstairs to the apartment will you?”

He made his way to the table where the brunette sat alone.  With a confident grin he sat down next to her and handed her a glass of wine.

“Personal service?  And I haven’t even ordered.” She said with a throaty laugh.  Deacon was completely taken.  “But I didn’t invite you do join me.”

“You would have.” Deacon assured her. 

“Perhaps.” She said as she surveyed the crowd.  She appeared to be searching for someone.

“Are you meeting someone?” Deacon asked.  He was unable to conceal his disappointment. 

“I came to meet someone.” She answered.

“And now you have.” Deacon grinned, his confidence returning.

“Why did you bring me wine?” She asked.

“Thought you’d like something cool and sweet.” He said with a wink.

“Perhaps you don’t know women as well as you think you do.  I’d like a Martini, very dry, with an olive.”

“I can do that.” Deacon said.  “Sorry, I guess I made a bad guess.”

“And while you’re at the bar, can you find out when Mr. Sharpe will be arriving?” She requested.

“Mr. Sharpe?” Deacon’s curiosity was aroused.  As attractive as the girl was, she could be trouble.  “And what do you want with him?”

“It’s personal.  So, do you know him?” She asked.

“I might.  Does he know you?”

“We’ve never met, but we have things, how you say, in common?”

“I’ll go get your drink.” Deacon picked up both wineglasses and with several backward glances, returned to the bar.

 

 

The engine kicked and shuddered and then another explosion erupted knocking Ridge to the floor while Carla grabbed onto the edge of the chair for support.  “Are you alright?” She screamed to Ridge.

“Brooke!” Ridge called out. “Help me Brooke.”

“Ridge!” Carla screamed as she jumped up and got onto the floor next to him.

“My head, I hurt it.” He grabbed his forehead and felt thick, blood washing over his fingers.  “Shit, I’m cut.”

“Perry! Stop the engine, this isn’t working!” Carla demanded.  “Ridge is hurt, I need to look at his cut.”

 

 

“Ridge?” Nick grabbed Brooke.  “What’s wrong?  Why are you calling for Ridge?”

“Oh, oh.  It was a dream.” She was shaking and her hands were clammy.  Nick was shocked at how pale she had gotten. 

“Tell me about it.  What has you so scared?”

“An explosion, he’s hurt, he’s bleeding.  Oh Nick, he’s in pain.”

“It was just a dream.  Shhhhh. It’s okay Princess, you’re safe and I’m sure Ridge is just fine.” He held her close but his teeth clenched as he growled out the name.  “Ridge.”

“It seemed so real.” Brooke said as tears streamed down her cheeks.

“It was just a dream.  Shhhhh, it’s okay.” Nick smoothed her hair to calm her.

“It felt so real.  I could feel his pain.”

“Dreams are odd that way.” Nick shrugged.  “And remember, we drank that wine. You haven’t had anything in ages.”

“I suppose you’re right.” Brooke reluctantly agreed.  But her thoughts keep hovering on Ridge.  She had felt him, just like she had all day long.  Something was happening, she was sure of it.

 

 

“Struck out that fast?” Ted asked with a chuckle.

“Just the wine.” Deacon told him with a distracted look.  “Make me two Martini’s, dry, olives.  And where is Alex?”

“She’s still in the office.” Ted told him. 

“That chick, you ever see her before?”

“No.  I don’t think so.  Why Deac?”

“She’s looking for me. I know I don’t know her.  I need to know what she’s up to.  I want Alex to go see if she can get something out of her.  Go get her for me.” He demanded.

“And who’ll make the drinks?” Ted answered with sarcasm. 

“Fine, I’ll go get her.” Deacon frowned, looked back at the woman and headed towards the office.  He knocked once and walked in, closing the door behind him.  “Alex, I need a favor, a big one.”

 

 

“Thorne, do you have a moment?” Eric asked his son as he walked into his office.

“I was about to leave but sure Dad, what’s up?  Have you heard from Ridge?”

“No son.  This is about Bridget, Bridget and that husband of hers.”

Thorne frowned and put down his pen and clipboard.  “Is she still pushing for you to give him a job?”

“Not just a job, an important job and she’s become very insistent.”

“Dad, you can’t give into her okay? That’s blackmail, you can’t encourage that.  Brooke would be horrified if she knew this was going on.”

“What choice do I have Thorne? Bridget needs something, she’s a wreck and all she wants is a place for her husband.  If only he wasn’t a bum.” Eric growled.

“But he is Dad.” Thorne reminded him. 

“Bridget and Rick are going to be the majority stock owners as soon as Brooke’s estate is settled.  Bridget can and will find a position for Deacon. If I do it then perhaps we can hold her off on any ideas of taking control, not just that be we can prevent Deacon from having a position that can damage Forrester.”

“So what do you have in mind?” Thorne asked.

“I don’t have a clue.  Does this man have any talents besides drinking like a fish and tearing families apart?  I just don’t know, but I have to come up with something now.”

“One thing we have going for us is his lack of ambition okay.” Thorne told his father.  “Deacon may like to give orders but he won’t like making decisions.  So is there some role where he could throw his weight around a bit and not cause too much harm?” Eric wondered.

“He likes the ladies, maybe something to do with the models?” Thorne suggested.

“Could you imagine the lawsuits if he starting pawing them? No, that won’t work, and not only that, I want him somewhere that I can keep an eye on him.”

“You could have him work for Mother, he’d quit for sure.” Thorne smiled.  “But seriously Dad, if we give him a job he hates he’ll just go running to Bridget complaining.”
“So what? What can we do with him?”

“I still think something with the girls, maybe put him in charge of the music for the shows or something.  He does know music, he runs that club.”

“How would that keep him busy?” Eric wondered aloud.

“What difference would that make? I don’t think he wants to work hard.  I think he wants a position that makes him feel important, a big paycheck and as much free time as possible.”

“Creative VP in charge of fashion show entertainment.” Eric said with a snap of his fingers.

“What?” Thorne laughed.  “Is that a real position?”

“No, but it is now.”

“Will Bridget know you made it up?” Thorne asked.

“Not if you back me up Thorne.  I’m counting on you.”

“I won’t let you down Dad.” Thorne shook his hand.

“Thank you son.  Now I am sorry that I didn’t have more time for you before.  Would you like to show me the portfolio of the girl you’re thinking about hiring?”

“Too late Dad, I hired her today, she starts tomorrow and I think you’ll really be happy.  Her name is Tatiana and she’s beautiful.”

 

 

“Her name is Tatiana and she sure is a beauty.” Alex reported back to Deacon.  “She’s very secretive about what she wants from you.  But I did get one thing out of her, Forrester.  She let the name slip.”

“How so?” Deacon asked.

“Just that you’re related to them.  Then she froze again.  Sorry Deac, I think you’re going to have to do this yourself.”

“Not a problem Alex, at least I know what I’m in for, she’s looking for money or fame or fortune, hell, maybe we can ride that merry-go-round together.” He gave his friend a kiss on the cheek.  “I guess it’s confession time.” 

“You’d better hurry, I don’t think she plans on waiting around much longer.  I did tell her that I’d go find you.”

“Thanks.” He smiled and walked to the door.  “This could be a really good day for old Deac, the best day since my silly little wife’s mommy died.”

 

 

Brooke lay on the small cot, wrapped in Nick’s protective arms, but for once she didn’t feel safe and protected.  She felt a fear, an uneasiness about everything.  “Maybe it’s the wine.” She said aloud.

“Feeling sick?” Nick asked.  “I never should have let you drink so much, not in your condition.”

“I didn’t have that much.” Brooke protested.  “I just feel a little queasy.  Probably morning sickness.”

“It’s night.” Nick laughed.

“I never said I was conventional.” She giggled.

“Brooke, is this about Ridge, is this because you’ve been thinking about him?”

“I shouldn’t be.” She admitted.  “We’ve been over forever and I may never see him again and Nick I owe you more than to be preoccupied with an ex-husband.”

“You’ve told me how close you were.”

“Were.” She repeated.  “He’s happily married and I’ve long since come to grips with that.  No, it’s just a strange feeling, I can’t put my finger on it.  Maybe it’s the wine or the pregnancy or both.”

“Do you want to be alone?” Nick asked.  He could tell she was out of sorts and he didn’t want to push her.  The last thing in the world he wanted to do was let her out of his arms, but he loved her and he was willing to do anything to make her happier.

“I don’t want you to go anywhere.” Brooke rolled around so she was facing him.  “Please don’t leave me tonight.”  She had the most intense feeling.  Somehow she felt this night was very important and that they needed to relish every moment.  “In fact,” She gave him a kiss.  “I think it’s time.” She gave him another kiss and a smile.  “That we lose these clothes.” She punctuated it with one last kiss.

“Nothing could make me happier.” Nick smiled.

 

 

Carla put down the first aid kit and looked at Ridge.  “I think you’ll live.”

“Thanks.” He said with a grunt.  “If only you could heal the engine as well.”

“No one be doin’ dat Ridge.” Perry said, wiping his dirty hands.  “We better hope we hit a good current and get to dat island soon.  Cause I need to be docked to fix dis.”

“How far are we?” Carla asked.

“Not too far, four five miles but widout an engine it not be too easy or fast.”

“Do you have a sail?” Ridge asked.

“Do dis look like a sailboat?” Perry angrily asked.

“Sorry.” Ridge replied. 

“No, I’m sorry, it’s not all your fault, I should have been firmer.  It’s just that we’re in trouble, maybe not bad trouble, but trouble da same.  You wanna try that cell phone? Maybe if we lucky there are people dare and we in range.”

“I’m sorry.” Ridge turned red.  “My phone is dead.  I dropped it and it’s just dead.”

“So we got nothin? Shit.” Perry muttered.  “Look, you two go get some sleep, I’ll keep control and maybe by da time you wake up we’ll be ready to dock.”

“Are you sure we can’t help Perry?” Carla asked.

“You’ll help when we get dare.  But for now you’re both just underfoot.”

“Let’s get some sleep.” Ridge told Carla.  “I got a feeling tomorrow is going to be a very busy day.”

 

 

“I’m expecting someone.” Tatiana hissed at Deacon as he sat down next to her. 

“You’ve got one hell of an attitude babe.  Is your bite as good as your bark?” He chomped his teeth together and laughed.

“Shall I get the manager?” Tatiana suggested.

“Sure.  Er, manager, manager, no, wait, I AM the manager.” Deacon grinned at her.  “Deacon Sharpe, pleased to meet you.” He held out his hand.  “And what exactly is it you want from me?”

“You’re Deacon Sharpe? Why didn’t you tell me before?” She was annoyed and yet trying to hold her temper.  This intrigued Deacon.  She wanted something and he hoped they could come to some kind of bargain, in fact he knew exactly what he wanted from her.  He gave her a charming smile.

“You got me suspicious baby.  So let’s say you tell me what this is all about.”

“I’ve done my homework.  You’re married to Bridget Forrester, you have no love for the Forresters and yet you stay in the marriage.”

“Now that is not a nice thing to say.” Deacon pulled out his cigarettes and took one out.  “Smoke?” He offered.

“I’ve quit.” She said.

“Will it bother you if I smoke?”

“It’s against California law isn’t it?”

“Are you a cop?” He asked sarcastically.

“It’s your lungs.  It won’t bother me at all.”

He lit his cigarette and blew a ring of smoke towards her face.  “So beautiful, you know I married Bridget and you know I am not exactly friends with Satanie or Erprick.  So uh, what is it you want from me?”

“What about the rest of the family? Thorne? Ridge? Taylor? Brooke?” She asked.

“My fan club.” He said with a chuckle.  “Well, if you know about me you must know that the lovely Mrs. Ridge Forrester has graciously let me and my child bride have her little house on the beach to live in.”

“So you are friendly?” She frowned.  This did not agree with what she had learned from her detectives.

“Ridge and Taylor hate me.  Thorne puts up with me.  What’s it to you?”

“And you?” She asked.  “How do you feel about them?”

“You haven’t answered my question.  What’s it to you? What do I get out of being your personal information channel?”

“If you’re trying to pimp yourself, forget it.  I’m not interested.”

“Not interested in lowly bar managers huh?  Whatever.” He started to stand and then sat down again.  “What do you have against my in-laws?”

“Why should I trust you?” She asked.

“Why should I trust you?” He countered.  “Hell, you’re a foxy bitch.  Are you sure you’re not interested? I think you and I could raise a little hell together.”

Tatiana sat back and carefully looked him over from head to toe.  She then reached for her drink.  “Sex? If I give you sex you will help me?”

“Help you what?” He asked again.

“Why should I trust you?” She asked him again.

“Honey, I don’t think you have much of a choice.  So which Forrester got your goat? Ridge? Did he turn you down after a one or two or three night stand?”

“You hate them as much as I do.” She said softly.

“Probably more.” He told her.

“Why?” She asked.  It was a simple question but Deacon just didn’t have a simple answer. 

“It’s complicated.  I mean I didn’t start out hating them, I didn’t even know them, but they made it their life practice to make my life hell, so now I am repaying the favor.”

“Good.” She smiled.  “Then we will make good partners.”

“Why do you hate them?” He asked.

“Not yet, I need to know more first.  I’ll come back tomorrow, we can talk then.”

“Honey, Deacon Sharpe doesn’t do anything for free.”

“It’s back to sex?” She asked in a bored, unaffected voice.

“Awwwh, you’re making me feel cheap.” He laughed.  “But hell baby, you’re hot and I really would like a taste of what you have to offer.”

“I don’t need you Mr. Sharpe, I can and will do this alone.” She stood up and grabbed her purse.

“Hey, don’t go away mad.” He grabbed her arm.  “I was just trying to be friends.”

“Mr. Sharpe.” She sat down again.

“Deacon.” He said softly.

“Deacon.  Shall we meet tomorrow?”

“Hell yeah, I am more than curious.  Won’t you tell me a little more?”

“One of them ruined my life.” She answered.

“You’re too young and pretty to have a ruined life.”

“When you know my story you will understand and you will know why she will pay and pay dearly.” She once more grabbed her purse.  “Tomorrow night, same time.”

Deacon let her leave this time.  “She?  Stephanie? Brooke? Bridget? Who hurt you and how?”  He wondered. “I will find out.”

 

 

The sun was barely moving over the horizon as Perry guided the boat onto the empty beach.  Luckily he found a smooth, rockless area.  The beach around the bend would have torn the boat to shreds.  He turned to face Ridge.  “Well, I guess we have a new home, at least for a week or two, or maybe three.  We better start rationing supplies.”

“We have plenty and maybe there’s something on the island.”

“We can fish.” Perry admitted.  “But we’ll want to see if we can find water, maybe fruit.  Go wake Carla, we need to get a start on da day.”

“What do you want us to do?” Ridge asked. 

“You two get off and see what you can find, stay out of my hair.  But before you go, you get me some coffee okay?”

“Sure Perry.  And thanks, you did a good job getting us here safely.”

“It’s my boat Ridge, I did it for her.”

 

 

Brooke opened her eyes and smiled at Nick.  She gave him a kiss and then slid out of the bed.  She thought she hadn’t waken him but as soon as she was gone he opened his eyes.  “God I love Princess.” He said softly.  They had made love for hours through the night, he was tired and not in the mood to work today. In fact, as soon as she returned he planned on convincing her that the day would best be spent in bed.  He sat up and yawned.  “I hope you’re making me coffee.” He called out.

“Yeah, and pancakes too, blueberry or maple syrup?” She asked as she walked in carrying their homemade tray.

“You decide, it’s just so hard to choose.” He laughed.

“I made some juice and I have some bananas, I’m sort of out of energy today.” She yawned.

“You and me both.” He agreed.  “Wanna cut today? Just play hooky with me?”

“It sounds heavenly, but shouldn’t we do something?” She asked.
“Seems like we deserve a day of rest, we really haven’t had one before.”

“I guess we could think of something to do.” She gave him a suggestive look and put down the tray.  Nick’s eyes followed her as she picked up and peeled a banana.  “Do you have any suggestions?” She asked.  She brought the banana to her mouth and using both hands stroked it up and down.  “Anything at all?” Her eyes widened with innocence.  She opened her mouth and with all the suggestiveness in her preformed her best oral sexual act on the banana.  Nick couldn’t take his eyes off her and his body was throbbing with need. 

“Brooke.” He moaned.

She slid the banana from her mouth.  “Have you come up with anything? Hmmmm?”

“Get over here now.” He demanded.

“Are you hungry big boy?” She teased.  “You know, there’s only one thing wrong with bananas.  They’re just not hard.”

“I’ll give you hard.” He moaned.

“I bet you will.” She dropped the banana and ran to his open arms. 

 

 

Ridge helped Carla out of the dingy onto the sandy beach.  She squinted and used her hand to shade her eyes as she inspected the beach.  “No sign of any civilization.” She sighed. 

“Yeah, but maybe inland.” He shrugged.  “Anyway, Perry wants us to look for water or food.”

“Which way?” She asked.

“This way.” Ridge pointed down the beach.

“Lead on.” She smiled.  Suddenly she stopped and reached down.  “What the hell?  Mr. Goodbar?” She handed Ridge the old, sunfaded wrapper.  “Someone was here Ridge, someone was here and maybe they still are.”

“Hallelujah.  Maybe we’ll get some real help.” Ridge smiled.  “Come on Carla, I’m starting to feel really good about this! Hello! Hello! Is anyone there?” He shouted as they ran down the beach.

 

 

 

Chapter 13

 

 

“Would you please slow down!” Carla shouted at Ridge.  “This isn’t a damn marathon.”

Ridge stopped and turned around.  He waited for her to catch up to him.  “Sorry Carla, I guess I’m over anxious.  The sooner we get the engine fixed the sooner we can get back to finding Brooke.”

“You know that candy wrapper could have been there for years, you saw how faded it was, and it could have been from a boater just taking a break.”

Ridge looked at her and frowned.  “I never even gave it a thought.  You’re right.  Probably a stupid picnic, I just hoped.”

“Maybe we should do as Perry asked and look for water.” 

“He sure was angry wasn’t he?” Ridge smirked.  “And he doesn’t give us much credit as explorers either.”

“Should he?” Carla asked with a laugh.  “I don’t know the first thing about exploring. I’m scared to death we’ll get lost and he’ll have to come looking for us.”

“We better not.” Ridge warned her.  “Perry does not want to have to stop working to rescue us.  We need to pay attention to where we’ve been and where we’re going, as well as the time.  We need to get back to the boat before nightfall and we better have water with us.” He said, tapping the two empty gallon jugs he was holding.

“He said if we were late he’d find a way to make us know it.” Carla raised her eyebrows.  “So, do you have any idea what he meant?”

“He has a gun and a flare gun. I imagine he’ll shoot one off if it’s late and we’re not back.”

“I hope it doesn’t come to that.  I don’t want to be out there in the dark.” She shuddered.  “Do you really think we’ll find water?” She looked at her own empty containers.

“I don’t think we’ll find any on the beach, not fresh anyway.” Ridge answered.

“You know much about this?” Carla asked him. Ridge c*cked his eyebrows in answer.

“Not a thing.”  He said with a laugh. 

“But it does seem to make sense.” She agreed.  “No fresh water near the salt water ocean.”

“Yeah, I suppose it does.” Ridge admitted. “Now I suppose we’ll be stuck here a while. I really want to get back to the search. She’s out there, I feel her more and more each day.  We need that boat fixed and we need to get back out. We need to get out soon, before it’s too late.”

“Unless you know anything about fixing boat engines I don’t see that happening.”

“I’ll do anything he asks of me, but it’s not my forte at all.” Ridge smiled.  He turned and looked the long beach up and down.  “I think I see the remnants of a campfire up ahead, shall we go check it out? Maybe we can see how old it is.”

“How, pray tell, do you intend to do that?” Carla laughed.

“Well, if it’s warm.” Ridge grinned at her.  “Hey, it’s worth a try isn’t it?”

“Sure.” Carla agreed.  “Let’s go check it out.”

 

 

“I’m hungry.” Brooke moaned as she rolled out of Nick’s grip.  “I think I better go fishing.”

“I thought we were going to take it easy today.” Nick said with a moan. 

“We will, after I get a fish or two, I’m hungry Nick, I’m sorry.”

“You stay and rest, I’ll fish.” He groaned and sat up.

“Go back to sleep.” Brooke giggled.  “I said I was hungry, that means I need fish today, I’ll fish. That’s the only way we’ll get to eat today.”

“Is that the thanks I get for that lobsterfest last night?” Nick asked sarcastically.

“No. It’s the thanks you get for after the lobsterfest.” Brooke smiled and kissed him.  “Come on Magellan, you know I’m better at this. It’s my reward for what you just did for me.”  She smiled coyly.

“Um, I think I got some pleasure too you know.”

“I know Nick, but you know you getting that lobster was a fluke.  I’m the better fisherman.  Let me do it before it gets dark okay?”

“Sooner or later you’re going to have to let me take over you know, once you get bigger.”

“Don’t remind me.” Brooke said with a sad sigh.  “Oh Nick, we have to get home before I have to deliver, I just can’t have a baby here.”

“I’ll do everything in my power.” He said as he pulled her back into his arms.  “In fact, forget this being lazy stuff.  I’m going back to work on the raft. I’ll get you home Princess, if it’s the last thing I do.”

“Oh Nick.” She sighed and held him tightly.  “I know you want to.”

“Shhhh.” He said softly.  “We’ll get home, we will.”

 

 

“So this is my office?” Deacon asked as Thorne and Eric showed him the small office near Thorne’s own office.  “Down here?” He rolled his eyes.

“For now.” Eric told him.  “But I don’t imagine you’ll be spending too much time here.”

“Already trying to get rid of me Gramps?” Deacon asked with a frown. “I don’t think Little Miss Bridget is going to like that.”

“Hey!” Thorne shouted.  “You should be thanking him for giving you anything you worthless piece of.”

“Thorne!” Eric stopped him.  He pushed his son away from Deacon and then turned to face his son-in-law.  “I meant you’ll be spending more time with the models, at the shoots, not sitting in an office, that is if you’re willing to accept this job.”

“Vice President in charge of what was that?” Deacon asked.

 “Creative VP in charge of fashion show entertainment.” Eric said again.

“Sounds er, made up.” Deacon said with a smirk.  “Now you’re not making up a fake job to snow old Deac are you?”

“It’s a real job.” Eric was having a hard time controlling his anger. 

“Who holds it now?” Deacon challenged him.

“It’s part of my job.” Thorne informed him.  “You’ll be taking over.”

“So do I get a cute little clipboard too?” Deacon teased.

“Look you little snot!” Eric grabbed the man by the shirt. 

“Dad!” This time it was Thorne taking control.

“If my daughter hadn’t insisted on this.” Eric said through gritted teeth.  “And if her mother was alive.”

“Ah, but she’s not now is she.” Deacon said, his voice dripping with false sympathy.  “And now poor Bridget has no Mommy, so you better be nice to me, she counts on me so very much.”

“Just shut up Deacon, we’re only doing this for Bridget! So just shut up!” Thorne warned him.

“I’d almost forgotten how tough you Forrester men were.” Deacon laughed.  “Too bad your other wimp, er, son wasn’t here to help you fight your battles Gramps.”

“Are you taking the job or not?” Eric growled.

“I’ll take it.” Deacon smiled.

“Good.” Eric pulled out a contract.  “Sign this.”

“IF.” Deacon continued.  “You add a zero at the end of the salary and you tear up that worthless piece of crap because you’re not going to trick me that easily.”  Deacon walked behind the desk and sat down.  “Replace this with real leather.” He added.  “Oh and Gramps, I want an office upstairs, in fact, old Brookie’s is open isn’t it?  I think that would do quite nicely.”

 

 

“What can you tell?” Carla asked Ridge.  He was kneeling down next to the long abandoned campfire. 

“It’s cold, it’s been rained on, I guess it’s been weeks, maybe months since anyone has been here.”

“It looked pretty old to me.” She sighed.  “I wonder if there is any fresh water, Ridge there has to be, we’re running low and who knows how long it will take for Perry to fix the engine and.”

“Calm down Carla, it’s only going to effect our hygiene.  We have plenty of things to drink and to be honest, as long as we’re here we can wash in the ocean.”

“Ugh.” Carla groaned.  “It’s so damn primitive.”

“Think of how primitive it must be wherever Brooke and Nick are.” Ridge reminded her.  “We have beds, we have food, we have water and soft drinks, we have clothes and medicine and a first aid kit, we have.”

“Stop it!” Carla shouted.  “Stop it Ridge! I can’t take it anymore. I know! If they are alive, and they probably aren’t, they have it worse, but I can’t think about that now, I’m scared and I want to go home and I just can’t think about that! I can’t.” She started to softly cry.

“I’m sorry.” Ridge apologized.  “But it’s true Carla.  No matter how bad we think that we have it, they have it worse.”

“No, no you are not going to fill me with your false hopes again Ridge, I won’t let you.  Let’s just get the water and get the boat fixed and get me to civilization so I can go home!”

“Fine.” Ridge got up and brushed off his knees.  “There seems to be a path leading this way, it’s a good as place as any to try.  What do you say?”

“Fine.” She said angrily.  She frowned and followed as Ridge walked inland.

 

 

“Damn it to hell!” Brooke shouted as she threw down her spear very close to where Nick was working.

“Whoa Princess! You almost caught me.” He picked up the spear.  “You’d better be a little more careful with that.”

“I’m so damn mad!”

“I can see that.  What’s the matter? Did our master fisherwoman have a bad day at work?” He teased.  “Want me to try? Maybe the tide has changed.” He laughed. “Besides, I think it’s time you faced facts, I AM the better provider here.”

“You don’t understand Nick, it wasn’t that I can’t fish, no one could have fished today!”

“Uh huh, typical woman.” He laughed.  “Blame the weather, blame the sun, blame the boogey man, but take the blame yourself and admit you can’t do everything? Nope, not you Princess.  Well let me show you how it’s really done shall I?”

“Yeah, you go try Nick, let’s see how well you do.” She growled. 

“Okay.” He said with a smile.  “You wanna work on the raft? No, never mind, you come watch me fish, I’ll show you how it’s really done.”

“You arrogant son of a bitch!” Brooke spit the words with venom. 

“What the hell did I do to you?” Nick asked.

“Go ahead, be a show off, you’ll find out soon enough.” She sat down on a log.  “Don’t bother screaming for me, I won’t come!”

“You screamed when you came last night honey.” He said suggestively.  “And this morning too.”

“Pig!” She picked up a rock to throw at him, but Nick laughed and ducked out of her way. 

“Must be the hormones.  Don’t worry Princess, I’ll be back with food soon.” He started off towards the beach, laughing and smiling and to Brooke’s annoyance, whistling too. Brooke sat there fuming as he faded from her view.

 

 

“Where are you going to put him Dad?” Thorne asked Eric.  “You can’t give him Brooke’s office, you can’t.”

“It’s not a shrine Thorne, but no, he will never have that office.  As a matter of fact your mother plans on moving back in, after all it was her office originally.”

“I guess there’s no harm in that.” Thorne said after he thought about it.  “No reason to let good office space go to waste. But what about Deacon?  Where are you going to put him?”

“Don’t tempt me.” Eric said angrily. 

“I’m serious Dad, he’s not going to take that office and if he doesn’t.”

“Then Bridget will act.” Eric completed his son’s thought.  “I’ve thought long and hard and there is only one solution.  Deacon will take your Mother’s office over once she moves into Brooke’s.  I already spoke to Deacon and he agreed.”

“Awh Dad, that’s wrong, so wrong.”

“What choice did I have?” Eric shrugged.  “Bridget is on the verge of a breakdown and I can’t trust her not to do damage to the company.  Also this way Deacon will be closer to me, I can keep a better eye on him.”

“What about the money?” Thorne asked in a near monotone.

“I gave him a little more, nothing near what he wanted.  That’s all I’ll say on the subject.” Eric dismissed the line of questioning when he picked up a file.  “When is your model coming in?”

“She’s with the photographer right now, she’ll be coming to my office afterwards and I’ll bring her to see you once she arrives.  You’ll like her Dad, I know you will.”

 

 

Brooke’s conscience got the better of her.  She couldn’t put Nick in danger, so she quickly got up and ran to the beach to try and stop him.  “Nick wait!” She screamed.  “Wait, I have to tell you something! Please wait!” She shouted as she ran towards the sound of the crashing waves. 

 

 

Deacon put his feet on the desk and smiled.  He’d be in the new office in a few days, once Stephanie cleared out.  Not that he really cared about the office, he just had wanted to get Eric’s goat and got it he had.  He chucked to himself.  “Damn, I should have insisted on a secretary, now that would be sweet.”  His imagination took over as he pictured hours and hours of lovemaking with the buxom blonde he would hire behind the door of his new glamorous office. “Awh hell, with all the models, why settle for just one chick.” He smiled a satisfied smile and took his cigarettes from his pocket.  He was about to light up when he spied the fire sprinkler system.  “Stupid jerks, how’s a man supposed to enjoy a smoke?”

“If you obeyed the laws it might be easier.” Came the voice from his doorway.  He turned to see the beautiful woman from the night before.

“So you made it into the Promised Land.” He chuckled.

“And you did too I see.” She walked in and shut the door behind her. “Why did you not tell me that you worked here?”

“I didn’t, not till today.  But these aren’t my real digs, I’ll be moving upstairs once the cow vacates my office.”

“You’re confusing me, do you work here, or at the Lair?” She asked.

“Here now, I’ll be giving notice at the Lair, I’ll give them a few nights, it gets me out of the house anyway.” He frowned.  “So what are you doing here?”

“I’m the new spokesmodel for the Brooke Tribute line.” She informed him.  “Thorne Forrester hired me.”

“So I guess you didn’t need me after all, but now you may.” He winked. “See, I know your secret, or at least part of it, and I have a position of importance here now, sooooooooo.”

“I think we can be of mutual benefit to each other.” She said in a strong and positive voice.  “But for now I must get in to see Thorne before he questions my whereabouts.”

“Are we still on for tonight?” Deacon asked her.

“I’ll be at the Lair tonight.” She promised. “Ta.” She said with a wave as she opened the door and left him sitting there speechless.

 

 

“Did you hear that?” Carla asked Ridge.

“A bird?” He suggested.

“I don’t know.” She shivered, despite the warmth of the Caribbean sun.  “It just scared me.”

“You’re letting your imagination get the better of you.” Ridge chastised.  He looked around.  “So you think we should go right or left?  Both paths look pretty well worn, I suppose we can take one and then try the other if it doesn’t lead us anywhere.”

“Maybe we should go back to the boat.” She said to Ridge.

“Oh yeah, Perry would love that, we wouldn’t even be able to tell him we tried.  Come on Carla, don’t act like a scared child, it was nothing but a bird.”

“Maybe it’s natives.” She shivered again.

“Maybe it is, and if it is they’ll help fix the boat, this is not Gilligan’s Island, we’re not going to run into head hunters.” He laughed at his own joke.

“Fine, make jokes, but I heard something and it scared me.”

“Carla.” He put his hands on her shoulders.  “I promise you, I won’t let anyone or anything hurt you.”

“Let’s go.” She said with a sigh. Ridge took her hand and gave it a squeeze.  

“We’re safe, I promise.”

 

 

“Nick wait!” Brooke screamed as she watched him wading out into the surf.  “Nick come back now!”

“Cut it out!” He shouted back.  “You need to learn you can’t always win Brooke! I’ll get all the fish we need.”

“Nick please!” She begged.  Her eyes wildly panned the water.  “Nick please just slowly, very slowly come back out to me, please Nick, please.” She begged.

“What the hell?” He asked.  “Princess what the hell is wrong with you?”

“Ssssshark.” She clasped her hand to her mouth.  “Nick, shark.”

He looked at Brooke and followed her eyes.  She was right, there was a shark, there were two sharks, there were three or four sharks and they were circling a reef very close to where he was standing. He was frozen in fear. A cold sweat started to form in his pores.

“Nick, listen to me.” She said softly and calmly.  “I want you to walk to me, very slowly and very carefully. Do NOT put the spear into the water, I don’t want the sharks to see that blade, it’s shiny and it will attract them.  Do you understand me?” He just stared at her as if not comprehending a thing.  “Nick listen to me, you’ll be okay if you just do this.  Please Nick, please.”

Tears were forming in her eyes, this was her fault.  If she hadn’t been so angry and he hadn’t pushed her she would never have let him do this.  “Come on Nick, come in now!” She was more demanding but Nick just stood there like a statue, a statue that was trembling in fear.  “I’ll come out to you Nick, we can walk back in together.” Brooke told him.  Finally something got through to him.  He couldn’t let her risk her life or their child’s.

“No.” He told her in a shaky voice.  “No, stay there.” He demanded.

“Then you come to me.” She pleaded. She held her hand out.  “Walk to me Nick, slowly and carefully walk to me.”

He was petrified, he was almost rooted to the ground, but somehow Brooke’s urging was getting through to him.  It wasn’t about himself, it was about her, about Brooke and their unborn baby, he couldn’t, he wouldn’t leave them alone.  Slowly he moved one foot.  He watched to see if the sharks had noticed but so far they seemed transfixed on the other reef. 

“Hurry!” Brooke shouted.

“Quiet!” He told her.  Then walking backwards, not once taking his eyes off the predators, he inched his way towards shore.  It seemed to both of them like it took hours, but in reality it was only a few short minutes and Nick was safely back on shore.  He threw down the spear and ran to Brooke, falling, exhausted into her arms.

“I was so frightened.” She cried as she held him and soothed him.

“I didn’t even see them.” Nick confessed.  “Thank God you came, I might have been stuck out there.”

Brooke looked down at the ground, her face turning crimson. Nick let her go and a look of shock and understanding came over his face.

“You knew?” Nick was astounded.  “You knew they were there and yet you let me go out? Why? What the hell did I do to you to deserve that?  Tell me!” He screamed at her.

 

 

Stephanie got up when she saw Bridget in the hallway.  She walked out of her office and called to her stepdaughter.  “Honey, come in and say hello.”

“Hi Stephanie.” Bridget stopped and smiled at her.  “I was actually looking for Deacon, do you know where he is?”

“Come in and talk to me, I’ll help you find him.” She gave her a gesture with her hand and Bridget followed her into the spacious office.  “Aren’t you supposed to be in school honey?”

“I finished my lab early.” Bridget explained.  “Besides, today is a special day, my husband’s first day on the job.  So where is his office?”

“Bridget sit down.” Stephanie walked to the door and shut it.  “I’d like to talk to you about this.”

“He’d better have an office Stephanie.” Bridget said angrily.

“What is it that you think he is qualified for?” Stephanie asked in a soft, soothing voice.

“Anything he sets him mind on.  He’s a very smart man Stephanie.”

“Street smart.” Stephanie clucked. 

“I don’t have time to argue with you.  Where is he?” Bridget demanded.

“He’s in the office next to Thorne, alright? Now will you sit and talk to me?”

“Why? All you want to do is cut him down.  He’s my husband and I love him and he deserves a place here at Forrester.”

“You got your way Bridget, against all of our better judgement you won and Deacon has a job.  I just want to understand why you think he is good for Forrester.  Do you think your mother would have approved?”

“My mother wanted me happy, Deacon makes me happy.” Bridget insisted.

“Your mother did not like Deacon Bridget, you know that, you know that well.”

“She left me!” Bridget shouted.  “She went on that stupid trip and she took stupid risks and now she’s dead! Deacon is here! Deacon loves me so don’t you dare tell me what’s good or right or wrong! This is what I want! It’s time I got what I wanted!”

“Bridget Forrester!” Stephanie scowled at her.  “Would you listen to yourself whinging and whining? You’re acting like a spoiled little child.  I’m glad your father isn’t hearing this. He’s be so disappointed in you, and so would your mother!”

“My name is Bridget Sharpe!” Bridget growled back at her.  She grabbed her purse and stomped to the door.  “And I am going to find my husband NOW!”

 

 

“The path is getting smaller.” Carla told Ridge.  “I don’t think it leads anywhere.”

“You may be right, we can turn around and take the other one.  We can’t give up, not so soon or so easily.” Ridge said with a smile.

“I’m not cut out for marching through the jungle Ridge.  I just want to go back to the boat.  I just want to go home.”

“You’re not a quitter.” Ridge took her hand and squeezed it.  “Let’s go a little further this way and then we can turn and take the other path.  We need water, let’s prove we’re as good as we think we are hmmmm?”

“I never said I was good.” Carla said with a pout.  “But fine, you win.”

“Good.” Ridge smiled and took her hand.  “You’re a trooper Carla.”

“Nick you don’t understand.” Brooke looked at him as tears welled in her eyes. 

“Damn straight I don’t! You knew there were sharks and you let me wade my way into them?”

“I didn’t think you’d be stupid enough to go into the water!”

“Uh huh, that’s why you ran to stop me right? God Brooke, what the hell is wrong with you?”

“I was so mad that I couldn’t fish and you were acting so superior about it.  I thought you’d come down here and see them and then realize what was up.  Then I got scared.  Damn it Nick, I only gave you about a five minute lead!”

He frowned at her and looked out at the water in disgust.  “Five seconds was too long!”

“I’m sorry! I tried to stop you. Nick please!”

“Please what?” He asked disgustedly.  “Please go back in and die?”

“You are so damn dramatic.” She sighed.  “Will you hear me out or not?”

“Talk!” Nick demanded, but he turned away from Brooke in disgust.

“Nick.” She grabbed his arm and turned him to her.  “I was so frustrated. I came out to fish and started out and I saw something out of the corner of my eye.  I thought it was a school of fish and I was feeling good about it, I thought we’d have an easy meal for a change, but it was sharks and they kept coming.  From there.” She pointed around the bend.  “I tried to tell you but you got so arrogant, I thought I’d just let you see for yourself, but then I got scared, I thought maybe, just maybe you wouldn’t see them so I came to warn you. You don’t really think I’d want you to be hurt? How could you Nick? How could you think that?” Tears streamed down her cheeks.  Nick looked at her and instantly knew she was right, she was telling the truth.  He pulled her to him and held her close against his chest.

“I’m sorry, you’re right honey, I know, I know.” He said trying to calm her. 

“I’m so sorry Nick.” She sobbed.  “I never, never.”

“Hey, we’re both on our last nerve today, we’re hungry and tired and frustrated too.  I shouldn’t have tried to show off, you’re right, I did.”

“I never should have gotten mad and let you take off.  Nick I was so stupid.”

“It’s over and done. We’re both okay.” He gave her a smile and kissed her softly on the lips.  “But we do have a problem.”

“No food.” She said.  “I’ll try.” She told him. “I’ll go out there and try.”

“Are you nuts?” He pulled her tighter to him.  “We’ll eat fruit, they can’t stay forever can they?”

“I don’t know.” Brooke let go of him and walked to the water’s edge.  Nick followed her and they both peered out, watching the sharks swimming around.  “Maybe it’s the season.  Maybe they’re here for months.  Maybe we won’t get back in the water and we’ll starve.” Brooke looked up at him in desperation.  “What then Nick?”

“I don’t think so.” He said after watching them for several minutes.  “But I’m not sure you’re going to be too happy with my explanation, I know I’m not.”

“Any explanation is better than wondering.” She admitted.  “What do you think?”

“Something is stirring them up Brooke.  I’m wondering if one of the other bodies might have drifted in.”

“Oh God.” She moaned.  “But wouldn’t it be all decayed by now?”

“Yeah, but that’s what they like isn’t it?” He gave her a grimace.

“So if that’s it then once they finish it, they’ll leave?”

“As long as they think they’ve run out of food yeah, they’ll have to find a new source.  But it also could be something is riling them up, maybe a storm coming up.  Somehow I don’t think this is just an overnight shark season, but even if it is, we’ll figure out another way to fish, we’re not going to starve.”

“If it is a body then maybe if I go to the other beach I can catch something.” Brooke’s eyes lit up with excitement.

“We’ll go together.” He told her firmly.

“But the raft.”

“The raft will be here when we get back.” He told her.  “Let’s go get some water and some fruit and whatever other supplies we need and we’ll head for the old beach, I bet we catch a few fish.” He smiled and gave her a hug.  “And I’m sorry for getting so angry.”

“I’m sorry for putting you in the position that you’d be angry.” She smiled weakly at him.  “Let’s try not to fight anymore.”

“Okay Princess.” He agreed with a hug. “No more fighting, we need to stick together.”

“Like glue.” She sighed and relaxed in his arms.  “I don’t know what I would have done if I lost you.”

“You’ll never lose me Brooke, that’s a promise.”

 

 

“Now what?” Carla asked when the path came to an apparent end.  “Turn around?”

“I guess.” Ridge shrugged.  “No, wait, listen. Shhhh.”

“What?” Carla asked as she stood still.  “I don’t hear anything at all.”

“Listen carefully, I hear something.” Ridge insisted.

“We’ve walked miles, I’m tired and hungry and thirsty and we haven’t found food or water.  Let’s go back, we can go to the boat and eat something and then try a different direction.” Carla frowned as she waved away an insect.  “I don’t like the jungle very much.”

“Let’s try and get through these vines Carla, it seems like we’re headed uphill, maybe to a different area and I hear something, I can’t put my finger on what it is, but I will. Please?”

Carla looked at her watch.  “One half hour, that’s it. If we don’t find something then I swear I am turning around and leaving.”

“Deal.” Ridge held out his hand for a handshake.  “One half hour.  And I really do think we’ll find something, I have a good feeling.”

 

 

“How’s this?” Nick turned so Brooke could see the sarong he had tied around his waist. He had gotten his shorts and his shirt wet when he had tried to fish and the air was humid, preventing them from drying. Brooke had seen his discomfort and insisted that he stripped down.  Nick happily complied but to his dismay her intention had not been lovemaking but laundry.  She had taken out her precious bar of soap and washed both his shorts and shirt and then left them to dry on a tall branch of a nearby tree.

“Perfect.” She smiled.  “This way your stuff will dry and they’ll feel nice and clean when you put them back on.”

“I hate wasting your soap like that.” He sighed. “But they were feeling grungy.”

“We’ll have to figure out something else to use to clean with.” Brooke told him.  “Anyway you look cute, just like a native.” She grinned.  “Are you ready?”

Nick blushed and looked down at his attire again.  “Yup, and with my new spears we can both fish and save our blade for more important things.  I think we’ll be fine.”

“If there are no sharks on the old beach.” Brooke said with a note of resignation. 

“You have to think positively Princess, we’ll do it.  We’ll be just fine.  We’ve come too far to give up now.”

“You’re right.” She said with a smile.  “So how did you make them?” She asked about the two new spears.

“Easy, I used the knife and just carved it from a sharp stalk.  It works well, I tried it on a coconut.” Nick explained.

“I hope it’s not too dull.” Brooke said with a sigh.

“It’s not, and I made you one too. We need to preserve our knife, it’s the only real one we have. And I know you like me well shaved.” He added with a grin as he turned her to face him.  “Brooke, smile please.”

“I’m trying.” She gave him a small smile.

“Is that the best you can do?” He laughed.

“For now it is.” She sighed deeply.  “I just feel so defeated by those sharks.  I’m tired and hungry and mad, I’m so mad Nick.”

“I know Princess, but I have a very positive feeling about this. We haven’t been back to the old beach in a long time, I bet there are tons of fish just waiting for us.  Now come on, lose the glum face and let’s go.”

“Okay.” She said with resignation.  She took the extra spear from him.  “I’ll do my best, I promise.”

“That’s all I ask.”  Nick smiled at her and held out his hand.  “Ready?”

“Ready.” She took his hand and they started towards the beach.

 

 

Deacon saw Bridget before she got to his office door. He stood up and walked to meet her.  “Hey babe, come on in.” He said with a smile.  “Check out the new digs.”

“I’m so happy.” She ran to him and threw her arms around him.  “Do you like it? Do you like the job?”

“It’ll do.” He told her.  “What are you doing here?  What happened to school?”

“I was too excited.  I finished my lab and cut the rest.”

“Your family is going to blame me.” He said. 

“I don’t care.” She smiled and leaned up to him for a kiss.  Deacon complied and then walked to his desk. 

“They’re moving me upstairs.  This office is temporary.”

“Oh?” She looked confused.  “Don’t you like it?”

“It’s the Dungeon Bridge, I want to be with the big boys.”

“But there aren’t any spare offices, except.” She gasped and her eyes filled with tears.  “You didn’t ask for my mother’s office did you?”

“I didn’t have to.” Deacon informed her.  “Your stepmonster is taking it, I’m getting her office.”

“Stephanie? Stephanie is taking my mother’s office?” Bridget gasped in shock.

 

 

“Shhhhhh.” Ridge stopped and held Carla back.  “Water, that’s running water.”

“A stream?” She wondered.

“More powerful, maybe even a waterfall.  Let’s hope it’s fresh.”

“I can’t imagine it wouldn’t be Ridge, salt water doesn’t usually flow from falls.” Carla said softly.  “At least I don’t think so, I could be wrong, it’s been a long time since I was taking geography or science classes.”

“I suppose you’re right.” He smiled at her. 

“We’ve come a long way.  Do you think we’ll be able to find our way back? Perhaps we should have left a trail.”

“Like Hansel and Gretel?” Ridge asked her with a chuckle.

“No, not bread crumbs, but maybe some bright cloth.  I’m afraid we’ll be lost.”

“No problem.  If we do lose our way we just head for the shore, it may take longer but I guarantee that we’ll find our way back to the boat.  But in the meantime let’s get to the source of the water, this may be exactly what we’ve been looking for.”

“Yes.” She smiled.  “Maybe we have met our goals.”

“Come on, I think it’s right ahead.” Ridge said, urging her onward.

 

 

Nick stopped short, causing Brooke to walk right into him. “Hey!” She said with annoyance.  “Why did you stop? Oh my God!” She gasped when she saw the boat.  “Nick, Nick a boat, we’re saved!”

He grabbed her and turned back to face the boat.  He stared at it in silence.

“Hey! Hey! Hello!” Brooke shouted.

“No!” Nick said sharply, stunning her to silence. He covered her mouth with his hand, only letting go when she frowned at him.

“No?” She finally asked.  “Are you crazy? Nick they can take us home! Nick, we can go home!”

“Brooke wait, you don’t understand.”

“If this is about me saying we go our separate ways we can fight that out later.  Nick please, let’s go there quickly, before they leave! Please!” She begged. “I want to go home, I need to see my kids, Nick please!”

“We can’t.” He said softly.  “In fact we need to get back behind cover, it might not be safe.”

“You’re crazy.” She tried to pull away but he held her tightly.  “Nick, let me go! If you want to rot here that’s your prerogative, but I’m going to make sure they see me before they leave!”

“No!” He said grabbing her again.  “Brooke you’re forgetting something very important.”

“And so are you!” She insisted.  “You’re forgetting that we want to go home!”

“Brooke no!” He insisted.  “They could be the drug runners!”

“I don’t care if it’s Charles Manson and Ted Bundy along with Saddam Hussain, I want to go home!”

“If they are the drug runners they won’t take us home Brooke, they’ll kill us.  Now you have to listen to me. We need to take shelter and watch them, we need to watch them and make sure it’s safe!”

Brooke was angry, but as she watched Nick she knew he was right.  But as right as he was, she didn’t want to lose the one chance they had for rescue.  “But they could leave without us.  Nick we need to take a risk.”

“No Brooke, I’m sorry but I am going to insist that you listen to me. We’ll get closer and watch, but we’re not making ourselves known until I determine that it’s safe.  There is no debate here Brooke, none at all.”

Brooke looked at him like he was insane.  She was angry but she knew that he was not going to let up.  “How long do we wait?” She asked.

“Until we see them and we determine that they are safe.”

“I suppose they’ll have tee shirts on saying, “I’m a drug runner”. Right Nick?” She asked sarcastically.

“No.”

“Well then how are you going to determine if they are or not? Tell me Nick, please.”

“We’ll just know Brooke.”

“Shit! Nick if they leave without us I will never forgive you.”

“If they’re safe they WILL take us home and if they are not you WILL forgive me, because believe me Princess, as bad as it is here, at least we’re alive.  Now just follow me and be quiet.” He instructed her.

“Hello honey.” Stephanie hugged Taylor as she came into the home she had shared with Ridge.  “I’m so sorry I missed you.”

“It’s alright.  Thomas was wired anyway, we didn’t stay long.  He’s in the yard, I’ll call him in and he can show off his trophy.”

“Later dear.” Stephanie closed the door.  “I’d like to talk to you alone.”

“If this is about Ridge you can forget it.  Eric gave it his best but it’s over, I’m through.”

“Honey.” Stephanie sighed.  “You’ll never convince me you don’t love him.  I know he will come to his senses.”

“Has he called you?” Taylor asked.  “No, I didn’t think so.” She answered without waiting for an answer.  “Stephanie he doesn’t care, he doesn’t care about me or our children.  I can’t do this anymore.  Please don’t ask me to.”

“He’s confused.” Stephanie defended her favored son.

“HE’S confused? Well excuse me for not giving a damn! What about his children? They ask for him every day! He doesn’t call! He doesn’t write! Not even a damn postcard! He’s on his quest to rescue his dead lover and we’re supposed to just sit around waiting?” Taylor was livid and Stephanie for once was silenced.  “I’m moving on.  I let the divorce go through, we are not married, it’s over.”

“Brooke is dead, he won’t be bringing her home Taylor, think about your family.  Your children.  They need their father.”

“Isn’t that what I’ve been telling you?” Taylor said angrily.  “Look, I wish Brooke WERE alive. At least this wouldn’t be all for nothing. Ridge threw us all away for a fantasy.  How the hell do you think I feel? How do you think my children feel? We’ve been deserted Stephanie!”

“He will come back.”

“I won’t be here.” Taylor walked into the living room and sat down on the couch.  Stephanie followed and sat next to her.

“Eric told me you’re dating.” She said with a deep frown.

“Yes.”

“Who are you dating?”

“Is that really your business?”

“They are my grandchildren.”

“You think I’d date someone who isn’t right around my own children?” Taylor jumped up.

“I think you’d do anything to get back at Ridge right now.  Who is it Taylor? Who are you dating?”

“His name is Peter Dawson and he’s a doctor, he’s kind and sweet and I enjoy his company if you have to know.”

“And the children?”

“Stephanie this really doesn’t concern you.”

“What are you hiding?”

“Nothing, nothing at all.  He has met the children, but that’s really irrelevant, we just had a couple of dates, it’s not like I’m marrying the man.”

“How did you meet him?” Stephanie pushed.

“At a conference.  He knows James Warwick.  We met, we had a nice conversation and he asked me to dinner, I accepted.”

“One date?” Stephanie asked in her presumptuous way.

“Actually two.” Taylor smiled.  “And hopefully more.  I’m sorry Stephanie, but Ridge and I are history.  It’s time you accepted it.  I have.”

 

 

Brooke sighed and stretched as she stood up.  “Okay, he’s scary looking, but that doesn’t make him a drug runner.”

“I didn’t say he was, but he’s alone. Why Brooke? Why all alone on a boat in the middle of nowhere?  Sorry but it doesn’t make sense to me.” Nick frowned and shaded his eyes from the setting sun.  “He doesn’t seem to be going anywhere tonight.  Maybe we should go back to camp for the night and get an early start.”

“Leave? No way! What if HE leaves? Nick you’re acting like a crazy man! Don’t you want to go home? Don’t you?”

“You know I do Brooke, I’m just trying to keep us alive.”

“You’re ruining our first and maybe only chance of being rescued.  Nick we need to go to him and tell him we’re here, we need to take a chance.  We need to go home!”

“Brooke, I just don’t believe he’s alone, I think we could be in real danger.  We need to lay low and watch him until we’re sure we are safe.  Trust me, please trust me.”

“I want to, but Nick, I want to go home.  Please. Please don’t blow this for us.  I want to trust you and I want to believe in you and I want to be safe, but more than all that I want to go home, I want to see my kids, I want to sleep in a bed and drive a car and eat at a table. I don’t ever want to fish for my dinner again, I don’t ever want to wonder where my next meal will come from.  Don’t you want that too?”

“You know I do.”

“Then what is it?” She asked.  “Is this because I said we won’t be together? Nick that’s selfish.  You can’t keep me a prisoner!”

“I’m not keeping you a prisoner!” He answered sharply.  “In case you’ve forgotten I’m in the same situation you are.  I’m just being more cautious, something you should try for a change!”

“I just want to go home.  Nick please.” She begged.

“Okay then I have another idea.”

“What?” She frowned at him.

“If you promise to stay hidden, don’t move from here unless he leaves the boat, I’ll go back and get some supplies and we can sleep here. That way he can’t leave without us.  What do you say? Deal?”

Brooke thought about it.  She didn’t want to keep hiding, but she knew Nick could be right.  “Okay.” She reluctantly agreed.  “Get fruit, water, something to cover up with and the knife.” She added.

“Good idea.” He agreed.  “I won’t be long.  Are you sure you don’t want to go with me?”

“I do, but someone needs to stay.  I promise I won’t take any crazy chance.”

“Okay.” He smiled.  With a creek in his knees he got up, then kneeled down and pulled her into his arms, giving her a passionate kiss.  “I love you Princess, don’t ever forget that.” Then he took off.

 

 

“See, I told you that I’d find the beach.” Ridge said proudly.  He was struggling to carry the water while at the same time swatting away the diving insects.

“I smell citrus.” Carla insisted.  “If we only could explore a little more I bet we’d find it.”

“Look.” Ridge pointed up at the sky.  “It’s getting dark.  We can come back tomorrow. We have plenty of food, now we found plenty of water.  Perry will be pleased, we’ll eat well, sleep well and tomorrow we come back and find your fruit.  We did enough for one day.”

“Wait!” Carla suddenly stopped. 

“What?” Ridge gave a frustrated sigh. 

“I saw something bright, out of the corner of my eye, please, let’s go look.”

“It was probably one of those birds we saw before. Carla my feet are tired, I’m hot and I’m hungry.  Let’s go back, we can explore tomor, Carla!” He shouted as she took off down a well-worn path.  “Oh for God’s sake.” He shifted the water in his hands and followed her.  When he caught up with her she was in a small glen, staring up at a tree limb where a pair of torn shorts and an equally torn man’s shirt were waving in the wind.  “Look.” She pointed.

“Someone was here, they probably got rid of some old things.”

“No.” She said.  “Ridge can you reach them?”

“Fine.” He growled.  He put down his water and reached up to grab the clothes. To his shock he found them to be wet.  “Carla, did it rain last night?” He asked.

“No.” She said with a shiver.  “Ridge, we’re not alone.”

“No, I don’t think we are.” He inspected the shirt in his hand and sniffed.  “Odd, it’s strangely familiar.”

“Maybe they use the same detergent that your wife does.” She suggested.

“Maybe.” He said, but he wasn’t convinced.  “Did you see another boat?” He asked.

“No, but maybe when we get to the beach we will see one.  Ridge this could be the answer to our prayers, they’re sure to have a radio, we can call for help.”

“If they’re still here.” Ridge argued. “They might have just left without these things, after all, they are pretty ratty looking.” He handed her the shorts.

“Yes.” She said.  “Someone poor I imagine.  I wonder if they’re criminals, hiding out or something.  Ridge, this may not be safe.”

“You’re right, we’ll walk near the beach, but travel inland a bit, just to be on the safe side. Agreed?”

“Yes, agreed.” She said as she hugged herself, trying to hide the fear.

 

Deacon paced back and forth in the beach house.  Bridget was still upset and he didn’t want to leave her but he needed to get to The Lair. He wanted to learn more about Tatiana, the woman was very intriguing to him.  He looked at his young wife as she sniffled into a tissue.  “I don’t see what the big deal is Bridget.  It’s not like your Mother is going to be using the office anymore.” He cringed when he saw her shocked reaction and another wave of tears.  “You know I didn’t mean it like that.” He covered his faux pax.

“You act like you’re glad she died.” Bridget sobbed.

“No baby.” He came up to her and put his arm around her.  “I just meant that there’s no reason for that big office to sit there like a shrine, Brooke wouldn’t have wanted it that way.”

“But Stephanie? My Mother hated her. Why would she take it over? Why not Dad or Ridge?”

“Because they already have big offices, don’t make such a big deal out of this baby.”

“I’m sorry, I know I’m acting childish, but Deacon it hurts so much, I miss her so much.  We never had a chance to make things right, we fought about, about.”

“About me.” He finished for her.  “I know you did, but she’s looking down at us now, seeing how happy we are and she’s smiling.” He grinned at her.

“Do you think she supports us?” Bridget looked up at him.

“I know she does.” He answered.

Bridget relaxed in his arms.  “Thank you Deacon. You always make me feel better.”

“I try.” He kissed her cheek.  “Now Bridget, I have to go down to The Lair.”

“Why? You work at Forrester now!”

“I thought we talked about this.  I can’t leave them high and dry.  You wouldn’t want me to do that to Alex. Just a few more days.” He ruffled her hair.  “You get some sleep, I’ll try not to be too late.”

“Wait.” She grabbed his hand.  “I’ll get changed and come with you.”

“Not a good idea, you’re an emotional wreck tonight.  Just rest, maybe call your friends up and have them come over and watch a movie.  I’ll try to get home early.”

“Okay Deacon.” She reluctantly agreed.

 

 

Brooke looked back at the path and rolled her eyes in annoyance.  Nick still wasn’t back.  She was tired and hungry and bored. The man on the boat had gone below and hadn’t reappeared in what seemed like hours.  Brooke was so tempted to just go and approach him, but she remembered her promise to Nick.  “I think you’re wrong.” She said softly.  “I think this is our salvation, I think you’re just scared, hell, I guess I’m scared too.  Oh Nick, what will the future bring?” She rubbed her legs to increase the circulation.  She was about to get up and stretch again when she heard a voice from the boat.  The man had a thick West Indies accent and he was shouting something she just couldn’t make out.  She tried to concentrate on his words and recognized ‘Where the Hell are you?’.  She caught her breath.  “Nick’s right, you’re not alone.  Oh God, Nick, did they find you?” Then her world crumbled when she heard the loud, distinctive sound of a gunshot.

 

 

“That’s Perry.” Ridge announced to Carla.  “It must be later than we think.”

“That fool. Shooting off a gun.” She grumbled.  “If there are people here, they know we’re here now.  What if they aren’t trustworthy? The boat isn’t in working order, we can’t get away.  Men! You’re all the same! Foolish little boys always playing showoff!”

“Then we’d better get back fast, before he shoots again.  And hopefully whoever left those clothes forgot all about them and are long since gone.”  But Ridge didn’t think this was true at all.

 

 

Nick looked up at the sound of the gunshot.  “Brooke! You stupid woman! You couldn’t wait! You wouldn’t trust me! Damn it you better not have gotten yourself shot!”  He grabbed the bottles he had filled with water as well as the oranges and threw them into his sack.  Then, securing the knife in the spear he took off back towards where he had left the woman he loved.

 

 

“Is she here?” Deacon asked Alex as he sauntered up to the bar.

“And which conquest would this be?” She smiled.

“Tatiana.” He said as he scoped up the bar.

“She’s here.” Alex confirmed.  “She asked for you.  Deac are you sure you want to do this?  You got a good thing with that girl.  She’s sweet and kind and if you don’t want to be with her, do her and yourself a favor and cut her loose.”

“And fall off my gravy train?” Deacon laughed.  “Uh uh.  I don’t think so.”

“You’ll take the fall Deac, you know you will.  The Forresters will not stand for this.” She warned her friend. 

“Awwwhh Alex, you’re just jealous.” He pulled her over and planted a kiss on her lips.  “Now where is she?”

“Over there.” Alex pointed to a dark table in the corner.  “But think about it Deac, really think about what you’re doing.”

 

 

“Damn it.” Ridge reached down and grabbed his ankle.  “Shit!” He shouted.

“What happened?” Carla caught up to him.  “Are you okay?”

“I twisted my ankle, I tripped on this vine.” Ridge pointed down angrily. 

“Can you walk?  Try putting some pressure on it.  God, I hope it’s not broken, we have no way to set it here.” She was worried.  “Try Ridge.” She insisted.

Ridge limped over to a log and sat down.  “It’s not broken, but it hurts, probably sprained.”

“Can you make it back?” Carla asked him.

“Eventually, but this isn’t good, I’m going to slow us down and he’ll shoot off his gun again.”

“You can lean on me, I’ll help you.” Carla suggested.

“I’ll still slow us down and once he knows that someone is here, well Perry is going to be really pissed at us.”

“That’s his problem Ridge.  You didn’t trip on purpose.  It’s just going to have to take longer than we planned, that’s all.”

“No, I want you to go on ahead, you take the beach and I want to take the inland path, it’s easier for me to walk there, no sand. You tell Perry and I’ll catch up to you.”

“I can’t just leave you Ridge.”

“I’m a big boy, I’ll be fine. Just do it Carla, it’s the best solution.”

“But Ridge.”

“No, I’m serious. You go ahead and tell Perry, maybe if things look okay he can come back and give me a hand.  I’ll be fine.” He assured her.

“If you’re sure.” She reluctantly agreed.

“I am.”

 

 

“I don’t care what you said, I’m going back, I have to find you Nick.  I have to know that you’re safe.  We never should have split up.” Brooke looked back at the boat and then up ahead on the path.  “Please be safe Nick, please.”  She frowned looking back at the boat. “Can I take a chance and go meet you?  Oh Nick, we never should have split up.”  She got up and grabbed her spear.  Reluctantly she looked back at the boat.  “Some things are more important than others and Nick, you’re more important.”  Tears welled in her eyes as she started on the path back towards their campsite.

 

 

“Who wants to go out for ice cream?” Stephanie asked her grandchildren with a grin.

“I do!” Steffie shouted loudly.

“Me too.” Phoebe shyly agreed.

“And you Thomas?” Stephanie asked the boy.

“Nah.” He sighed and put down his milk glass.

“What’s wrong Thomas?” Stephanie asked the child.

“Nothin’.” He walked to the couch and plopped down on it.  “Can I watch TV?” He asked loudly.

“What’s on?” Taylor walked up to him.

“I don’t know.” The child sighed. He looked up at Taylor sadly and she gave him a smile. 

“Okay honey, but find something your sisters will like too.” She turned to Stephanie.  “I have ice cream, let’s make it here okay?”

“Sure honey.” Stephanie agreed as she followed Taylor into the kitchen.  “It’s his father isn’t it?”

“Damn straight it is.” She groaned.  “Ridge has no idea what this little adventure of his is doing to his children.”  She opened the refrigerator and then slammed it shut. “I shouldn’t have to handle this alone Stephanie.  Divorce is hard enough on the children, an absent father makes it tenfold!”

“I wish we had a way to get in touch with him.” Stephanie said with a hug.  “Taylor honey, please think about it.”

“We’re divorced, the time for thinking ended months ago.”  She frowned and got out the ice cream bowls. “Can you get the ice cream from the freezer?”

“Sure honey.” Stephanie took out the gallon container while Taylor got the scoop.  “Anything else?”

“The chocolate syrup and ReadiWhip.” Taylor instructed.  “I’ll get the bananas.”

“In time things will calm down, maybe then you two can talk.” Stephanie practically begged.

“No.” Taylor said flatly.  “It’s over, we can talk about the kids, but not about each other.” Both women turned at the sound of the doorbell.  “Will you excuse me a second.” Taylor smiled. “I’ll be right back.”

 

 

Brooke kept turning around and looking over her shoulder as she walked along the path. She was frightened, not just for herself, but for Nick.  The sun was going down, and she was tired and hungry and more and more she was finding herself convinced that Nick was right. Something was wrong here, the boat and it’s captain scared her.  She felt a shiver go through her body.  “Nick, please be okay.” She whispered. 

 

 

Ridge had long since lost Carla from his view, but his ankle was finally starting to feel better.  He tried to increase his pace, he didn’t want Perry to shoot off his gun again, not until he knew if someone was on this island with him.  He looked up at the sky, it was getting darker.  “We can look again in the morning, it’s time to make some dinner and get some rest.” He smiled and looked ahead down the path.  He shook himself, he needed to clear the vision that seemed to haunt him night and day, but when he opened his eyes it was still there.  “Oh my God. Logan! Logan!” He shouted, dropped the water bottles and ran to the beautiful, half-naked blonde who was about fifty feet ahead of him. 

 

 

“What the? Ridge?” Brooke’s eyes clouded with tears.  It couldn’t be real, she had to be imagining things.  “Ridge?” She watched as he got closer and closer and closer.

 

 

“Logan!” He pulled her to him, throwing his arms tightly around her.  He buried his head in her hair, breathing in her very essence.  “Logan, Logan I knew I’d find you!”

 

 

Brooke couldn’t believe it was real, she was in his arms, he was there, she was saved.  She pulled back to look at his face and smiled.  “Ridge, I knew you’d find me.” 

Ridge started to laugh as he lifted her up and swung her around.  “You’re alive, oh Logan, I knew you were alive.  I felt you here, here in my heart.” He thumped on his chest with his fist.

“I felt you too.” Brooke said softly.  Tears streamed down her face.  “I knew you wouldn’t give up on me, even when everyone else did.” She looked up and touched the bandage on his forehead.  “You’re hurt, was it an explosion?”

“What? How did you know?”

“I knew, I knew.” She smiled and hugged him tighter.  “Oh Ridge, take me home, please take me home.”

“I will Logan, that’s a promise.  But we need to get the engine fixed.” He sighed and reluctantly let go of her, finally noticing her state of undress.  “Here.” He took his shirt off and handed it to her. Brooke looked at him and started to giggle.

“Do I offend you?” She asked.

“No, no Logan, it’s just, well, what happened to your clothes?”

“Is that all you can ask?” She laughed again. 

“I have a million questions, but I just want to stare at you.  I can’t believe I have you back, I can’t believe it Logan.  This was a fluke, a mistake, we weren’t even headed here, the engine died and this is where we ended up.  We’re way off course, you’re way off course. What happened? Do you remember the accident? Can you talk about it? Are you hurt? I bet you’re hungry! We have food for you, and clothes and anything you need.  Oh God Brooke, I have you back.” He pulled her to him once more.  She relaxed in his arms, it felt so good, so safe. “You!” He suddenly smiled and looked down at her face. 

“Me? Yes, it’s me.” She said softly.

“The smell, it was you, that’s why I knew it, that’s why it was so familiar.  It’s your soap isn’t it?”

“Just about the end of it.” She smiled.  “But I’ve been sweating all day, I can’t still smell like soap.  Are you trying to tell me you smelled me and that’s how you found me?”

“No honey.  I smelled the clothes that you must have washed.  Oh, oh, okay, that’s why you’re not dressed.” He smiled.

“Actually no.” She laughed.  “To be perfectly honest Ridge, clothes tend to get in the way here, so we don’t really wear to many.”

“We?” He asked. “You’re not alone?”

“Oh my God! Nick! We have to tell Nick!” Brooke shouted, then she smiled at Ridge. “He’s not going to believe this. I was right all along! That is your boat isn’t it?”

“Nick Parker? He’s with you?”

“You know Nick?” She was so confused.  “Am I dreaming? This can’t be real.”

“Oh, it’s real Logan, it’s very real.  Where is Nick, show me and we’ll get him and I’ll explain it all to you and you can explain everything that you’ve been through to me.”

 

 

“Where Ridge?” Perry asked Carla as he helped her onto the boat.  “Did you hear me? Did you hear the shot?”

“Yes and that was stupid!” She admonished him.  “We saw some evidence that someone might be here, someone who is possibly hiding.  Now you’re made our presence known.”

“Where is Ridge?” Perry insisted.

“He sprained his ankle, he told me to go on ahead to make sure you didn’t shoot again.  He’s fine, but he needed to walk slowly.  Here.” She gave him two gallons of water.  “Ridge has two more.  We found a waterfall.”

“Is it clean? Is it fresh?” He questioned her.

“Of course it is.  You don’t really think I’d fill the bottles and lug them all the way back without checking them!”

“Did ya fine any food?” He asked.

“Coconuts, plenty of coconuts and I smelled citrus, but it was getting late so we decided to come back and check again tomorrow.  I’ll start making some dinner.  How’s the engine coming?”

“Slowly.” He said.  “But I tink I be okay, I tink I know what will get her runnin’ again.”

“How slowly?” She sighed.  Perry looked at her and shook his head.  “I’m sorry Miss, I tried to get you back, you blame Ridge for dis, not Perry.”

“I do.” She said softly.  “But I suppose I have to admire his tenacity too.”

“Odd ting though.” Perry shrugged.  “He married, wit kids, and he chases this woman all over da Caribbean.”

“I guess it’s love.  Don’t ask me, I just never knew that kind of love.” Carla sat down.

“You love your man no?” He asked.

“I loved him yes, but not with the passion that Ridge seems to love his Brooke.  I’ve never known a passion like that.  Though if I had it to do over, I’d try and find it with Nick, I would Perry.  He was such a fine man, strong and smart and handsome.  We just never had those sparks I suppose.”

“Maybe he wasn’t the right man for you.”

“Are you married Perry?” Carla asked.

“Married with five kids.” He beamed.  He pulled out his wallet and opened it to an accordion of photos. “My wife, my Linda.” He pointed.  “And deese are my kids. Perry Jr., Bobby, Mary, Luke and Marcus.” He proudly pointed out each child.

“You have a lovely family.  I’m sorry we’ve taken you away from them for so long.”

“It’s part of da job, she understands, but when I get back dis time, we’re going to have at least two weeks together before I leave again, maybe next time you see me I’ll have seven kids.” He smiled and started to laugh.

“I wouldn’t doubt that for a moment.” Carla smiled at him.  “So what would you like to eat?” She asked.

“Better wait for Ridge, I may have to go look for him.”

“Oh, I don’t think so, he’ll be here soon.  I’m going to check out the food and decide what to make.” She smiled at him again and went down below deck.

 

 

Stephanie was stunned when Taylor returned to the kitchen with a man that she did not know. Their arms were linked together and Taylor appeared to be happy and comfortable.  She was laughing softly as they approached her.  “Stephanie, this is Peter Dawson, Peter, my former mother-in-law, Stephanie Forrester.”

“Pleased to meet you.” Peter flashed her a wide grin.

“Hello.” Stephanie said with a frown.

“I don’t mean to disturb you. I was in the neighborhood and I just wanted to stop and say hello to Taylor.  I won’t stay long.”

“Stay as long as you’d like Peter.” Taylor grinned.  “We’re making Banana Splits, would you like one?”

“I’d love one, but let me go clean up first.” He gave her a wink and headed for the powder room.

“He certainly seems to know your home.” Stephanie uttered once he was out of hearing range.  “Are you sure this is a good idea?  I think he should leave Taylor.”

“Because of Thomas?” Taylor asked.  “Don’t worry, he’s not a threat, just a friend.”

“It’s too much too soon Taylor.” Stephanie insisted.

“And that is for me to decide.” Taylor answered.  “Right now Peter is the answer to my prayers, he’s fun, he’s charming, he’s supportive and he makes me smile.  If you have a problem with that, perhaps YOU should be the one leaving.”

 

 

“You must have been terrified.” Ridge tightened his grip around Brooke’s waist as they walked.  “I can’t even imagine what you’ve been through.”

“It was harrowing, and humbling.” Brooke admitted.  “But to be honest, I was in and out of consciousness after the crash.  Somehow I hung onto that suitcase through it all.  Every time I was ready to succumb to it, I thought about Rick and Bridget and I found the will to hang on.”

“And then to end up here, I can’t imagine all you’ve suffered.”

“Hmmmm.” Brooke said thoughtfully.  “It wasn’t as bad as you think, I wasn’t alone and that helped.”

“You never gave up hope that we’d find you did you Brooke?” Ridge asked her.

“It’s so odd Ridge, I don’t know why, but I knew you wouldn’t give up on me.  I knew somehow if I could project myself to you, that you’d know I was alive.  But I didn’t even begin to imagine that it would be you yourself that found me.”

“I did hear you and feel you.” Ridge confessed.  “Everyone else thought I was crazy but I couldn’t give up, not as long as you were calling out to me.”

“They must all have been angry at you.” She said thoughtfully.  “But I’m glad you didn’t give up.” She suddenly stopped.  “Ridge, do you have a phone, or a ship radio? I really want to talk to the kids.”

“Both are dead Brooke, but as soon as we get the engine going I promise I’ll get you to a phone.  Bridget and Rick are going to freak.  Everyone is going to be so happy.”

“No happier than me.” She smiled.  “This way.” She instructed as the path divided and thinned.”

“Are you hungry? You’ve gotten so skinny.” Ridge said with a lot of concern in his voice.

“Have I?” She asked.  “I thought I was in pretty good shape.”

“You’re a sight for sore eyes, but you’ve lost a lot of weight, I’ll have to fatten you up again.”

“I am hungry, we had a problem with fish this morning, there were sharks, hey!” Her eyes brightened. “I bet that’s your fault, you scared them over from the old beach to our beach.”

“I’m sorry Logan.”

“I’ll forgive you.” She laughed.  “If you hadn’t we might never have found each other.”

“I would have found you, you know that.” Ridge swore to her.

“I bet you’re anxious to get back home though.” Brooke wondered.

“As long as I have you I am.”

“Taylor and the children, you must miss them so much.” Brooke said softly. 

“Brooke I have to tell you.” Ridge started.  Suddenly he looked up at the angry man standing in front of him.  He was wearing a sarong, much like Brooke’s, his eyes looked wild and he was holding a spear, aimed directly at Ridge.

“Let her go! Let her go now!” Nick demanded.

 

 

“Hey doll.” Deacon sat next to Tatiana.  “You been here long?”

“No.” She picked up her drink and took a sip. 

“So, you gonna tell me about your job?” He asked.

“It’s all part of the plan.” She said in a bored tone.

“And are you going to let me in on this grand plan of yours?”

“No.” She answered.

“And you expect me to help you?” He asked.

“No.”

“Not too talkative today.” He took a gulp of his own drink.

“You lied to me, you didn’t tell me you worked there, that changes things, you’re a risk, you’re too involved with them all.”

“I’m not involved with any of them, well, except Bridget.” He admitted.

“Why did you marry her?” Tatiana asked.

“It’s complicated.”

“Do you love her?”

“No, well maybe a little, no, no not really.” Deacon was confused.  He wanted to know what Tatiana wanted from him and yet he didn’t really trust her.

“You’re too connected.  My sources were wrong, you won’t be of any help to me.” She got up and started to walk to the exit.

“Wait!” Deacon called out, stopping her in her tracks.  “Come back.”

Tatiana frowned but returned to the table.  She silently sat down.

“Bridget is a good kid, I never should have married her.  I don’t like hurting her, but no, I’m not in love with her.”

“You just won’t meet my needs now, not if you’re working with them, I can’t trust you, I’m sorry.”

“No you’re not, but you may be missing out on a good thing.  There is no love between me and any of those idiots, so why not just clue me in and see if we can come to some mutual understanding, hmmm?”

“Do you like them?” She asked.

“The Forresters?” Deacon asked.  “No, I don’t. Well, Ricky boy is okay for a kid, but he’s not on my top ten list.  Eric? Stephmonster? Nah, I got no use for them.”

“What about the others?” She pressed.

“Ridge is an idiot, Thorne is a loser, God that guy is a real loser.  When I think of what happened to him.” Deacon laughed and then seemed deep in thought.

“What? Who are you thinking of?” She asked him.

“Brooke, Brooke was okay.” He admitted. “I know she didn’t want me with Bridget, but one day she just started to talk to me.  You know, she treated me like a human, something none of them ever did.  I guess you could say I liked her.  But she’s dead.”

“The others?” She asked.

“Hmmm, who else is there? Amber? Hot for me, but hotter for money, if you know what I mean and I think you do.” He winked.  “I don’t know Kristen well and I never met Felicia.  Who else? Um, Taylor, now that is a queen bitch in training. She’s so far up Stephmonster’s ass she’s a God damn suppository.”

“Taylor is married to?” Tatiana questioned him.

“Ridge, the idiot.” He laughed.  “She is so uptight.  I tried teasing her but she was just frozen, ya know?”

“Do you find her beautiful?” She asked him.

“You seem pretty interested in Mrs. Ridge, so is she the one? Is she the one you have the bug up your ass about?” He flat out asked her.

“Yes.” She admitted.  “That bitch is going to pay for what she did to me, will you help me?”

“What’s in it for me?” He asked her.

“Whatever you want.”

 

 

“Whoa! Hold on man!” Ridge pulled Brooke tighter against him.

“Nick, it’s okay, this is Ridge!” Brooke shouted at the same time.

“Ridge? Your Ridge?” Nick was confused as he stared at Brooke.

“The boat is his, I mean he came on it.  Nick, we’re saved, we really are saved.” She smiled at Ridge and then at Nick. 

“How? How did you find us?” Nick asked, still reluctant to put down the spear.

“Can you lower your weapon?” Ridge asked.

“Sorry.” Nick pointed it to the sand.  “Never can be too safe.”

“I hear ya.” Ridge agreed.  “And to answer, it wasn’t easy.  I’ve been looking a long time.  But this lady.” He pulled Brooke closer.  “She put out some real serious vibes.”

“Oh Ridge.” Brooke gushed and hugged him.  Then she looked at Nick.  “They’re going to take us home, not today, the boat needs some repairs, but soon Nick.”

“Wow.” He whispered softly.  “It’s over, it’s really over.”

“You’re safe.” Ridge assured him.  “And Nick, I have a really great surprise for you.”

“Me?” Nick asked.

“Yeah, but let’s go back to the boat and I’ll show you, not tell you okay?”

“Brooke?” Nick looked at her.

“You can trust him Nick.” She let go of Ridge and walked over to the other man.  She took his hand.  “We’re saved Nick, we’re finally going home.” She put her arms around him and hugged him tightly.

“Nick, I have to thank you.” Ridge said, interrupting the tender moment between them.

“Thank me?” Nick asked. He looked at Brooke and then at Ridge.

“You saved Brooke’s life and for that I will forever be in your debt.”

Nick looked at Ridge and started to laugh.  He then turned to Brooke.  “You’ve been telling tall tales Princess?”

“No, not a word.  I mean, I only got as far as the crash and my making it to shore.”

“What?” Ridge asked.

“I didn’t save Brooke.” Nick admitted.  “This amazing lady saved my sorry butt, and she saved it more than once.” He pulled her close to him and kissed her on the forehead.  “I’d be dead without her.”

“Logan?” Ridge questioned her. 

“Not quite the helpless female you thought huh?” She giggled. 

“I never thought you were helpless, but well, I just assumed, with Nick being the man and all.” Ridge stammered nervously.  “I, I guess you’ll have to bring me totally up to date.”

“I guess we’ll have a few days to do that.” Brooke smiled. 

“Shall we go back to camp?” Nick asked.

“We have a boat.” Ridge informed him.  “We have food and beds and clothing.” He gave both Nick and Brooke the once over.  “All the comforts of home.”

“Do you have coffee?” Brooke asked.

“All the coffee your heart desires Logan.”

“Nick, can you believe this?” Brooke beamed at him. 

“It’s amazing, it really is.” Nick said softly. He gently touched her face.  “You’ll get to see your kids again.  Maybe you can even call them.” Nick suggested.

“No phone or radio, but as soon as the boat is fixed we can get to land and then I can talk to them.”

“Does everyone think we’re dead Ridge?” Nick asked.

“Everyone but me pretty much.” Ridge smiled. 

“You were right all along Princess, he was coming for you.” Nick said somewhat sadly.

“Nick.” Brooke caressed his cheek.  “It will all work out, I promise.”

“Hey, I know it’s a shock, but believe me Nick, in a few minutes you’re going to be just as happy as I am, and that’s a promise.” Ridge walked to the man and patted him on his back.  “Shall we?” He put his arm around Brooke again.

“Maybe I should go but on my shorts.” Nick said as he looked down at himself.

“Not to worry, I’m sure I can fix you up in something of mine.” Ridge told him.

“And me too?” Brooke laughed. 

“Logan, I packed for you, everything you could ask for is waiting on the boat.  Now let’s go, it’s starting to get dark and I don’t know about you two, but I’m not just hungry but I’m in the mood for a celebration.”

 

 

Carla used a branch to move the logs in the fire.  She turned to Perry.  “This was a good idea.”  She looked back towards the boat. 

“Dis way we save the generator for more important stuff, besides, it’s a treat to have meat cooked on fire.”

“It’s nice to be on solid ground too.” She agreed.  “But I wish Ridge would get here, I’m really starting to get worried.”

“I tink maybe he went back, maybe to get your fruit?” Perry suggested.

“Stupid fool, I hope not, tomorrow would be time enough.”

“Sometimes he be thoughtful, when he not being crazy.” Perry laughed heartily.

“I just hope he’s being safe.” Carla told him.  “Men! Just a bunch of overgrown little boys.”

 

 

“He seems to like him.” Stephanie said to Taylor as she watched Thomas talking to Peter.

“He does.” Taylor explained.  “He’s a nice man and right now it’s good for Thomas to have a man to talk to.”

“He has a father and two grandfathers and two uncles and Rick and.”

“I know what you’re saying Stephanie, and I don’t discount it.  Believe me, Peter is just a friend and he isn’t going to be a complication. I’m not ready for anything serious, I’m not.”

“Just keep an open mind Taylor, that’s all I ask.  He will be home soon and if he comes back asking your forgiveness, I hope you’ll at least listen to him.  You have so much love together and history too.”

“Stop the sales pitch Stephanie.  I’ve made myself clear about Ridge.  He will always be the children’s father but he is never and I mean never going to be my husband again.”

 

 

“Now that sounds like an offer I can’t refuse.” Deacon grinned at Tatiana.  “You want something bad, really bad don’t you doll?”

“I want her to suffer like she has never suffered in her life, but not yet.  I need to learn more first, and this is where you come in.”

“Uh huh.” Deacon took another gulp of his drink.  “What do you need to know.”

“I need to learn everything about her, I need to know her life, those she loves, those she hates.  I need to know when she wakes up in the morning and when she goes to sleep.  I need to know what she eats and what she drinks and who she f*cks and who she lusts after.  I have some facts but I need details. Get me that and you can have whatever you desire, but think carefully Deacon.  I am a very powerful woman, I can give you riches beyond your wildest dreams, but once you align yourself to me, you’ll never be able to turn back.”

“Riches? Shit, I thought you were offering your body.”

“If you’re foolish enough to choose that fine, but you can have so much more.” She laughed.

“How are you rich?” He asked. “How rich ARE you?”

“It’s not of any importance to you now.  Perhaps if I learn to trust you, but for now you think about what you would like.  I’ll get you a list of things I want to know, you get me answers, answers that only an insider can give me.  You won’t be sorry.”

“Well baby, you have given me a lot to think about.  I don’t imagine you want to talk at Forrester.”

“No, that wouldn’t be safe.  We’ll find other times and places.”  She looked at her watch.  “I must go now.  I’ll contact you at Forrester and make arrangements.  If you choose not to help me, that is fine, but if you betray me, you will suffer worse than she ever will, be warned.”  She shut her purse and stood up.  “For now Deacon.” She leaned over and placed a kiss on his lips.  “Ta.” She said, and then she was gone.

 

 

Nick was walking behind Brooke and Ridge.  He was angry and he was jealous of the proprietary way that Ridge was holding onto Brooke.  He was willing to cut him some slack initially, but it would have to stop soon. This man was her ex-husband, not her lover and he had no rights to touch her this way. Not while Brooke was carrying his baby inside her.  They were traveling the beach now that the fear had been alleviated.  Nick was torn.  He was excited over the concept of being saved and going home, but he was terrified of the prospect of losing Brooke.  She was changing already and he wasn’t happy with the changes.  The confident, self-sufficient woman seemed to have been replaced by a frightened and dependant child.  Did this man have this kind of power over her? He had to wonder.  The Brooke who climbed mountains, who bravely fished and warded off sharks was gone and in her place was a timid woman, a woman who was cowering towards the protection of Ridge. 

“Someone started a fire.” Brooke said to Ridge and Nick.

“Perry.” Ridge explained.  “He’s the captain of the boat.  Maybe he decided to cook on the beach.  I’m sure you’re both tired of that though so as soon as it’s done we can go and eat on the boat. Is that okay Brooke?”

“I smell meat.” Brooke grinned.  “Nick do you smell meat?”

“Chicken I think.” Nick agreed.  “God my mouth is watering.”

“You like beer Nick?” Ridge turned and asked him.

“Hell yeah.” Nick smiled.  “You got cold beer Ridge?”

“I’m sure I can scare up a few cans.” Ridge told him.  “Or an cold can of Coke if you’d rather.”

“Both sound great.” Brooke laughed.  “Oh God, this is almost like last night.” She told Nick.

“Almost, but some things are different.” He said angrily.

“Ridge?” Brooke stopped.  “There are two people there, who else is with you?”

“Oh my God.” Nick stopped and gasped.

 

 

“Here he come.” Perry announced to Carla.  “Wait, Carla, he not alone.”

“What?” She got up and looked down the beach.  “A woman, Perry it’s her, I know her from his picture, that’s Brooke, my God, he’s found her, he’s really found.” She suddenly went silent.  “No, no, it can’t be, it can’t.  Oh my God! Nick! Nicholas!” She screamed out.

 

 

Chapter 14

 

 

Brooke’s eyes widened and she grabbed Nick’s hand.  “Is that her? Is that Carla?” She asked him.

“Yes.” He said in a soft, shocked voice. 

“That’s your surprise.” Ridge turned to grin at the man, but his eyes immediately fell to the interlocked hands.  “Hey, you better not let her see that.” He said, trying to make it sound like a joke. 

Brooke gave Nick a sad, forlorn look and let her hand drop.  “He’s right, we don’t want to give her the wrong impression.”

“Or the right one.” Nick muttered under his breath.  “Did you convince her to come?” He asked Ridge. 

“Nick, why are you standing here talking to us? Go get your woman.” Ridge gave him a push. 

“Go to her Nick.” Brooke agreed with a nod. 

Nick didn’t know what to do, there was nowhere else in the world that he wanted to be besides right next to Brooke, but he owed Carla more than that.  “Alright.” He said with a last look into Brooke’s eyes. 

“We’ll give you a few minutes alone.” Brooke told him.  She held her arm out to keep Ridge from walking ahead and then sadly watched Nick take faster strides towards the fire. 

“I guess you two have gotten pretty close being all alone huh?” Ridge asked Brooke.

“Yes.” She simply answered.  Her eyes were stuck on Nick as he got closer to Carla.

“It all works out nicely doesn’t it?” Ridge smiled.  “I’m really glad I convinced her to come, you know Logan, for a while there I was thinking that it was going to be a long ride home.”

“What do you mean?” She turned away from Nick and looked up at Ridge.

“I knew you were alive, but I had my doubts about him.” He confessed. 

“How did you know I was alive?” She asked him.

“I felt you, I heard you, you were in my heart and soul all along Brooke. Everyone tried to tell me differently, but I knew I couldn’t quit until I found you.” He pulled her close to him and kissed the top of her head.  “Aren’t you glad that I’m so stubborn?” He laughed.

“Very glad.” She said with a genuine smile.  “But what made you decide to bring Carla and how did you even know I was with Nick?  Did you find out about our charter?”

“Yeah, we had some detectives, they took a while but they did a pretty good job.  The first time I went out I was alone, but then when I heard about the charter and I met Carla, I just thought that positive vibes from both of us couldn’t hurt.  At first I really thought he’d be alive, but she lost faith and I guess I did too.” He looked at the frown on Brooke’s face.  “No, not about you Logan, about him.  I would have known if you were dead.”

“I know.” She agreed.  “We have a connection Ridge, I’ll never deny that.”

 

 

Carla’s eyes were filled with tears as Nick stopped in front of her.  “I see you, but I can’t really believe it’s you.” She whispered.  “Nick, touch me, I need to know you’re real.”

“I’m real.” He took her hands in his.  “I’m real Carla.”

“Oh my God.” She moved up to him and put her arms around him, resting her head against his chest.  “I hoped, I hoped and prayed but I never really believed.  Ridge, Ridge he was so sure, but I wasn’t.  Forgive me for doubting Nick.”

“You did nothing wrong.” He said softly.  “Thank you for coming.”

She looked at him and laughed.  “Thank you for coming? What an odd thing to say.”

Nick looked at her and laughed too.  “It is.” He agreed.  “I guess I’m at a loss for words.  I guess I can’t really believe it’s all over.”

“Almost over.” She said.  She squeezed tighter and let out a deep, contented sigh.

“Almost?” He asked.

“Well, we’re having engine problems, so we have to wait until Perry gets the boat running again, but it won’t be long.  We’ll be home soon.” She sighed again.  “It feels so wonderful to hold you again.”

“I think we’ve just held each other now more than we did in the last year.” Nick commented with a laugh.

“Maybe it’s time we changed that.  It takes a disaster to make us appreciate the things that are most important.  YOU are most important to me.” Carla told him. “I’ve missed you so much.  Was it horrible? It must have been.”

“It wasn’t a picnic in the park, but it was far from horrible.  You want to see horrible, then think about the others on the plane.”

“I know.” She let go of him and looked down the beach at Ridge and Brooke.  “That’s her isn’t it, that’s his Brooke.” She smiled.  “Are there any other survivors?” She asked him.  “Anyone needing medical help?”

“Thank you.” Nick told her.

“For what?” She asked. 

“For thinking of someone besides yourself, unlike him.” He pointed to Ridge.

“Oh Nick, he cares about you too, but he loves her so much.  And he never gave up faith that he would find her.  But are there others?” She repeated.

“No, only Brooke and I survived.” He said sadly. 

“Not even your clothes.” She laughed as she looked down at him. 

“Only the things I had on, I have shorts, I cut off the pants legs but we just happened to wash them today.  Ridge did say he could give me something of his.”

“I’ll go to the boat and get you something right now.” Carla told him.  “If Ridge’s clothes don’t fit you, Perry’s should.  But Nick, you’ve lost a lot of weight.  Have you found much to eat?”

“We’ve been eating pretty well.  Brooke is an excellent provider.” He told her.

“Brooke?” She frowned.

“I’m not much of a fisherman, but she has the golden touch.  I can get a few when necessary, but they seem to jump out of the water for her.  We also have fruit and coconuts so we’ve done okay.  I feel pretty healthy.”

“You look wonderful.” She concurred. 

Nick took a deep sniff at the cooking food.  “I gotta admit, my mouth is watering.  I haven’t had meat since two days before the crash.  If I had known I’d have skipped all the seafood and gone straight for the steaks. In fact, Brooke and I have been having some major food fantasies lately.”  He inhaled once more.  “God that smells so good.”

“Well prepare to have all your fantasies indulged.” Carla promised.  “Every single one of them.”

 

 

“He hasn’t kissed her.” Ridge said to Brooke.  “Is he shy Logan?  Is he strange?  He a little um, fruity?” He waved his pinky.

“No Ridge, not in the least.” She frowned.  “Maybe he doesn’t appreciate an audience.  Or maybe he’s just a little bit uncomfortable after all this time.”

“They’re supposed to be engaged, though Carla has said they aren’t really a passionate couple.” He laughed and put his arm tightly around Brooke.  “That was never our problem was it?”

“No, but we had enough problems to make up for it.” She reminded him. 

“Never again.” He turned her to face him.  “Never again Logan.”

“What do you mean?” She looked at him with confusion. 

“Never another problem between us.  Nothing will stop the passion either.”

Brooke crinkled her nose at him.  “I think the sun must be affecting you Ridge.  You’re a happily married father of three. You’re already in a passionate relationship, if Paris taught me anything, it taught me that.”

“You know something Logan.  Life sometimes gives us hard lessons, but if we pay attention, we learn from them.” He gently touched her cheek.  “My eyes are open to all lessons from now on and I have learned.”

“I’m, uh, glad you can appreciate what we had.  It’s nice to be validated.” She looked at him in confusion.  She could swear that she saw passion in his eyes.  “Ridge.  Don’t.”

“Don’t what?” He smiled and stroked her hair.

“Don’t confuse your pleasure at finding me for something it’s not. In a few days you’ll be back home with Taylor and your family and my life will go on as usual.”

“I’m not confused about anything.  For the first time in years everything is clear to me, crystal clear.” He put his hands on each of her cheeks.  “I love you Brooke Logan.” Then he pulled her to him and kissed her with the passion that she hadn’t felt from him since the night before he left her for Taylor and Thomas.

 

 

“He’s kissing her!” Nick said sharply to Carla.  He moved around her and stared down hard at them.  “He’s kissing her!” He repeated.

“He loves her.” Carla told him.  “I don’t know if Brooke told you anything about Ridge but.”

“She told me EVERYTHING about him.” He cut her off.  “Including how he’s married and how he broke her heart over and over again.”

“Nick.” She grabbed his arm.  “This isn’t our business.  And he really does love her, I know from all the time we’ve spent together.”

Nick continued to watch them angrily.  “He’s married Carla, married!”

“I can understand that you’re concerned about her, I imagine you two have become friends, but this is up to Ridge and to Brooke. Now please Nick, tell me about what you’ve been through, how you survived, anything you don’t mind talking about.  I’m just so glad to have you back.” 

Nick gave Brooke and Ridge one final look and sadly turned back to Carla.

 

 

“Hmmmm.” Perry said to himself as he watched the two couples.  “Look like more than a friendly interest to me Miss Carla, you better keep a close eye on your man.”

 

 

“Ridge!” Brooke gasped as she broke away.  “Where did that come from? I mean, I know you’re happy to see me alive but wow, that was something I never expected.”

“I’ve thought of nothing but you since the day you got on that plane Brooke.” He confessed.  “I did a lot of soul searching, and I finally got my priorities straight.”

“Priorities?” She asked him.  “Ridge, I just don’t understand.”

“I swore to myself I wouldn’t waste a single second once I found you, and I am going to honor that vow.”

“What?” She asked.  She was confused and overwhelmed.  “Ridge I’m glad you still care about me.  I know we had some bad feelings between us and being here all this time has helped me put them into perspective too.  Life is too short to hold grudges.  I’d like to be friends again. I’ll even try to be friends with Taylor.”

This brought a laugh to Ridge’s face.  He smiled and gave her a quick kiss.  “You’re too cute Logan.  And you’re just so wonderful.  It’s no wonder I love you so much.”

“I, I love you too Ridge, really.”  She sighed.  “So, um, is Taylor okay with you coming after me? I mean, did she understand?”

“Logan, stop it.” He put his finger to her lips.  “You’re not understanding me.”

“I’m not?”

“No.” He smiled broadly.  “Brooke, when I lost you, I lost a part of me, a part that I didn’t even know I still had.  I knew you were alive, but even if you weren’t, I just couldn’t go on the way things were.  I had to make changes, it wasn’t fair to Taylor or to you or to anyone.”

“What kind of changes?” She asked as a shiver went through her body.

“Are you cold?” He asked.  He pulled her closer to him.

“Ridge, what are you telling me?”

“Taylor and I got a divorce Brooke.”

“You what?” She almost jumped from his arms and stared at him hard.  “Why?”

“Because I love you, and I swore that when I found you, I’d never let you go again.  Brooke Logan, I am asking you to marry me.  I want you to be my wife.”

 

 

“Nick, this is Perry, our captain.  Perry,” She smiled. “This is Nick Parker.”

“Hello Nick Parker.” Perry offered his hand.  “You be a sight for sore eyes.  We be looking for you and Miss Brooke a long, long time.”

“And I appreciate it.” Nick told the cheerful man.  “I can’t believe that you actually found us, they say it was like a needle in a haystack finding survivors in a huge ocean like this.”

“Ridge, he persistent.” Perry laughed. “Your lady and I, we had our doubts, but Ridge, he be right.”

“I’m glad he didn’t quit.” Nick told him.  He shot a quick glance back at Brooke and Ridge, they seemed to be having a very serious talk.  “I’m sure his wife will be happy to have him home again too.”

“Not so sure about dat.” Perry told Nick.  “I don’t think his Missus is all dat happy wit him.”

“Once he’s home she should be happy.” Nick said.  He looked over at Brooke again.  This time her eyes seemed to meet his.  He gave her a smile but she looked down again.

“Maybe.” Perry said.  “But he seem happy to see Brooke.” He looked at them too. “So Nick, you ready to have some food?”

“You bet I am, and I’m sure Brooke is too.  I think I’ll go get her.”

“You get Ridge and Brooke.” Carla told him.  “I’ll go see what I can find for you to change into.” 

“Take anyting of mine you need.” Perry told her.

“Thanks.” She smiled at him and headed down the beach towards the boat. 

Nick watched her walk away and then looked towards Ridge and Brooke. 

“Your lady love you too Nick.” Perry told him.

“I know.” Nick said, looking back at Carla. 

“Sometimes situations come along and we go through tings different den we would if situation didn’t happen.  But den tings go back to da way dey belong.  You understand?” He looked at Brooke and Ridge, and then at Carla’s retreating form.

“I think so.” Nick told him. 

“Don’t do nothin’ rash man, you may not be able to fix words said in passion okay?”

“You’re a wise man Perry.” Nick told him.  “Thanks.” He turned and started to walk towards Ridge and Brooke.

 

 

“This is crazy Ridge.  The last time I saw you you barely had two words to say to me.”

“That’s not true Logan.” He protested. 

“You weren’t asking me to make a life with you.  You have to understand Ridge, just because you’ve gone through some life changes, it doesn’t mean I’m ready to understand your change of heart.”

“I understand you weren’t expecting this Logan, but I really mean it.  I know now that I love you and I just can’t go on without you.  I think you love me too, at least I hope so.” He gave her a boyishly charming grin. 

“Ridge this is, it’s just so unexpected.  I need time to just digest it.” She sighed and looked up to see Nick headed towards them.  “Things have changed for me too.  I’m not sure I’m even the same woman that left LA.”

“You’re the woman I love Brooke, that’s all I need to know.” Ridge took her hand.  “I’m going to convince you.  I’ll give you time to get used to the idea, but I will convince you.”

“I can’t even digest that you’re divorced.” She shook her head.  “But Ridge, please let’s keep this between us okay?” She didn’t want Nick to know what had been said between them.

“Sure.” He agreed.

“Brooke, Perry said that dinner is just about ready.” Nick said as he joined them.  “So what do you say you bring the reunion back up by the fire.”

“I am hungry.” She said with a hopeful glance at Ridge.

“Then you shall eat.” He smiled and took her arm.  “Thanks for alerting us Nick.”

“Not a problem Ridge.” Nick looked at Brooke, his eyes questioning her.

“So, did you like your surprise?” Ridge asked him.  “I’m sure Carla was shocked.  She didn’t believe like I did.”

“I was pretty shocked to see her here. Spontaneity isn’t her strong point.  How did you convince her to take time off?” Nick asked Ridge.

“She really cares about you Nick, after all, you are getting married.”

“Yeah.” Nick said, almost sadly. 

“Let’s go eat, I’m starved.” Brooke said cheerfully.

“We have to talk.” Nick said softly, for only Brooke’s ears.

“Later.” She promised.

“It’s important.” He insisted.

“Later.” Brooke repeated.

 

“How is my father?” Tatiana asked the person on the other side of the phone.  “Of course I am concerned about him, but I’m safe, I’m fine.  I’m no longer a child.  He knew when I left the university that I had other things in mind for my life.”  She listened for a while, obviously annoyed.  “Jasmine, I appreciate everything you’ve done for me, you were like a mother to me, the only one I’ve known, but things are different now.” She held the phone away from her ear, making an exaggerated motion of someone going on and on. “I intend to see her, but not until I am ready.” She told the woman.  “No, I do not want you to say a word to my father.”  She rolled her eyes and looked out the hotel window.  “I’ll be home when I am home.  No, no, I am fine.  That’s a good idea.  Yes.  I will call you soon Jasmine.  Please tell Papa that I love him and that I will see him soon.”  She hung up the phone.  “Princess Leila, soon you will meet your biggest mistake.”  She said with a sly smile.  “But until I am ready, you and all your family will have no idea what you are dealing with.” 

 

 

Bridget was lying on the couch with the television on when Deacon returned.  He walked over and sat down next to her.  “All alone?” He asked.

“I didn’t feel like dealing with friends.” She sighed.  “I’m glad you came home so quickly.”

“I told you I would.” He said.  “I’m going to bed.  You coming?”

“Deacon?” She sat up and touched his arm.

“Yeah?”

“Thanks.” She leaned to him and kissed him. “I know you wanted to stay there longer.  I appreciate you coming home for me.”

“Hey, you were upset.  Are you feeling any better?” He asked.

“Sometimes I wonder if I’ll ever get over it.  I miss her so much.”  She picked up a photo of Brooke that she had been staring at all evening.  It was worn on the corners but the pretty woman smiled out at Bridget.  “I know I’m not a kid, but I guess you never stop needing your mother.”

“I wouldn’t know.” Deacon answered.  “My mother never had any use for me.”

“I’m sorry.” Bridget touched his face.  “I’ve been thinking.”

“Hmmm?” He asked with a yawn.

“I’d like to have a baby.” Bridget said softly.

“Shit.” Deacon muttered.  “Bridget I am NOT ready for this conversation.”

 

 

 

Nick washed down the last bite on his plate with a gulp of his beer and looked at Brooke and smiled.  “Now this is what I call eating.”

“Uh hmmm.” She grinned and agreed.  “This was so good.”

“Want more Logan?” Ridge asked. 

“I’m so full.” She laughed.  “Are you trying to make me fat?”

“You’d need at least fifteen pounds before you even look normal Brooke.” He answered.  “I don’t think you have any idea how much weight you’ve lost.”

“She’s all muscle.” Nick told him.  “We haven’t been starving Ridge.  We may not have been eating gourmet meals but we’ve been eating.”

“I’m sure you have.” Ridge looked at Brooke and frowned.  “I don’t mean to imply that you didn’t provide for Brooke, I just meant that she’s gotten very thin.”

“So have you Nick.” Carla looked at her fiancé, who was now wearing a pair of Ridge’s shorts and one of his shirts.  They were both ill fitting but they were clean and Nick actually felt good to have clothes on. 

“A few more meals like this and I’ll be back to what I was when I left New York.” Nick promised.  He looked at the sky.  “It’s getting late, we should get back to the shelter and get some sleep.

“The shelter?” Ridge laughed.  “We’ve got our own shelter, we’ve got beds on the boat.”

“Beds.” Brooke sighed.  “Real beds with blankets and mattresses?”

“And pillows too.” Carla told her with a smile. 

“Pillows.” Brooke smiled broadly.  “You can’t imagine what a treat that will be.”

“And Logan, I brought you some nice soft nightgowns.  You’ll sleep well tonight.” Ridge put his arm protectively around her.

“Well.” Perry got up and started kicking sand on the fire.  “Let’s call it a night, I have to get an early start on repairs.”

“What are you doing?” Brooke jumped up and pushed him from the fire. 

“Logan?” Ridge looked at her like she was insane. 

“The fire, he’s putting it out!” She looked from Ridge to Nick in distress.

“We’ve worked very hard to keep our fires lit.” Nick explained to the shocked threesome.  “We only had a few old matches, most didn’t work and starting a fire with sticks and rocks isn’t as easy as it looks in movies.”

“Well we have plenty of matches.” Ridge said with a voice of authority that grated on Nick’s nerves.  “So don’t worry, when we want to start another fire, it won’t be a problem.”

“I’m sure you can Ridge, but you aren’t seeing it from our perspective.  Brooke worked her ass off to get our first fire started, she tore her hands to shreds.  You can’t even imagine how hard it is to learn survival, you have no clue at all.” He got up and walked to Brooke, putting his arm around her waist.  “Don’t worry Princess, I had the same reaction, you just got there first because I was sitting here with a full stomach.”

Brooke looked up at him and grinned.  “You were the one who got that first fire going.”

“Yeah, but you tried Princess, and you ate sushi too.” He turned to Ridge, Carla and Perry.  “This woman is amazing.”

“That she is Nick, that’s why I love her.” Ridge got up and walked to Brooke, extricating her from Nick and putting his own arm around her.  “I didn’t mean to belittle your efforts Logan, I just want you to know that from now on you can relax, I’m here and I intend to take care of you.” He smiled and kissed her softly. 

“Brooke didn’t need your help before Ridge.” Nick told him.

“Nick it’s okay.” Brooke told him.  “Ridge doesn’t mean it as an insult, he just wants me to know that the struggle is over.”  She looked up at Ridge.  “But we did do a good job of taking care of ourselves.”

“I know you did.  And I thank you too Nick for keeping my lady safe.  Now I’m tired and Perry is tired so I’d like to turn in.”

“I’m tired too Nick.” Carla got up and took his hand.  “I’ll tell you one thing. It’s going to feel wonderful to have you next to me again tonight.”

The smile instantly left Brooke’s face and she gave Nick a quick, forlorn look.  Then she caught herself and forced a smile.  “Let’s go.” She said, taking Ridge’s hand. 

“It will be nice to have you in my arms too Logan.” Ridge said, sneaking a kiss.

“Um, I’m not sleeping with you Ridge.” Brooke told him as they walked towards the boat.  “How many beds does Perry have?”

“Two cabins and his own.” Ridge frowned. 

“Then Carla and I will have to bunk together and you can bunk with Nick.” She informed him.

“Logan, you know we can’t do that. I bet Nick and Carla are anxious to be together again. And you know, you may not realize it but I’m sure it’s been difficult for Nick being alone with a beautiful woman like yourself for all this time and well, not being able to, well you know what I mean.” He gave her shoulders a squeeze.  “Now I am certainly not going to force myself on you, I know you’re not quite ready for that, but you can trust me enough to share a bed.  I’d just like to hold you in my arms while we sleep.  I promise you I won’t make you feel uncomfortable.”

“Ridge, you’re a married man.” She protested. 

“I told you Brooke, I’m divorced.”

“Oh, but still, in my eyes I still see you as married.  Look, you can have the bed, I’ll sleep on the deck or on the beach even, I’m used to it.”

“Logan!” He said in a deep tone. 

“It won’t look right Ridge!” She moaned.

“No one cares.  In fact I bet once they are behind that closed door, Nick and Carla are going to be so busy making up for lost time they won’t even remember we’re on the boat.”  He said reassuringly.  But his words had the opposite effect on Brooke.

 

 

Carla gave Nick’s hand a squeeze.  “You’re very distracted.” She told him.  “I’m sure a million things are going through your mind, I’m sure you have a lot of questions too.  I’m sure you’re even a little uncomfortable with me after all this time.”

“Carla, so much has happened.” He slowed his pace and then stopped.  “It’s all pretty amazing and even a bit confusing. Think about it.  I woke up this morning, stranded, wondering when the sharks would go away, if there was a storm brewing, if I’d ever go home and now this.”

“This being me?” She asked.  “You almost seem disappointed.”

“It’s not that.” He looked out towards the water.

“How long?” She asked him sadly.

“How long have I been gone?  You tell me, I’ve lost track of time, we don’t really have calendars.  I’m honestly not sure how long we’ve been.” He looked at her face and stopped.  “That’s not what you’re asking is it?”

“No.” She said and paused.  “You know it’s a normal reaction.”  She resumed speaking. “I’m sure it’s classic, textbook fare.  I don’t think it’s real, or that it will last.  I mean I can’t blame you, she’s lovely, but Nick.” She looked at him as tears welled in her eyes. 

“How did you know?” He asked.

“I’ve never seen you so protective of another human being in my life, myself included.  Do you love her? I mean do you think you love her?”

“Don’t ask that Carla.” He sighed and bent over to pick up a rock.  He rolled it in his fingers and then skipped it over the water.

“Do you see her with him?” She asked.  “She’ll break your heart Nick.”

His eyes followed Brooke and Ridge.  “You think they’re in love?” He asked.

“I think you and Brooke are both very confused right now.  I’m not going to put more pressures on you.  But Nick, you do need to know something.”

“What? What did he confess to you about Brooke?” He asked with exasperation.

“Nothing. What I want you to know is this.” She stood in front of him so that he saw her, and not Brooke and Ridge. “I want you to know that I love you Nick, I love you very much.  More than I realized, more than you realized.  I think we’re right for each other, I think we will make each other very happy.  But I know you’ve been living some kind of Robinson Caruso fantasy for the last few months, and I know it’s not something that you’ll get over like that.” She snapped her fingers.  “All I’m asking is that you give us a chance again, because I do love you so much.”

 

Ridge opened the door to his cabin and helped Brooke inside.  She took one look at the small bed and frowned.  “This is not going to work, I can sleep on deck.” She told him.

“We’ve slept in closer places than this Logan.”

“We were married Ridge!”

“And we will be again.” He laughed. He went to put his arms around her but she ducked from his grasp.

“Ridge.” She stopped him. “I haven’t said I’d marry you.  I don’t know if I would even consider it.  You may have been thinking about this all along, but believe me, it wasn’t a viable option for me.  So just slow down a little and back off a bit please.  I need to go home and try to get my life back before I make life altering changes.”

“Isn’t this what you’ve always wanted?” Ridge seemed shocked and hurt by her refusal.

“You’re acting like I’ve been away on a luxury cruise making a decision on where my future was going.  I wasn’t Ridge, I was stranded on an island, struggling each and every day to find food and shelter.  You’re asking too much of me and I’m not ready for this.”

“Okay.” He took her hand.  “I’m moving too fast and I’m sorry.  I’ll slow it down, but you know we can share this bed.  Trust me please?”

“I’m not sure.  Ridge I can live without a bed, I’ve done it a long time.”

“You take the bed, I’ll sleep on that chair.” He pointed to the small, canvas captain’s chair in the corner.

Brooke sighed and looked at the chair and then the bed.  “You promise you’ll just let me sleep?” She asked him.

“I promise.” He swore with a smile.

“Okay, go outside so I can change.” She told him as she eyed the soft, silky nightgown that was lying on the bed.

“I already got the floorshow earlier.” He reminded her.

“Out.” She giggled, pointing to the door.

 

 

Nick sat on the bed and looked at Carla who was leaning against the dresser.  “I’m sorry.” He told her.

“Meaning?” She asked.

“That I’m disappointing you.  That I’m confused.”

“That you have feelings for Brooke?” She asked.

“If those feelings hurt you yes, I’m sorry about that. But I’m not sorry that I care about her.”

“I’d never ask you not to care about her Nick.” She sighed.  She started to fiddle with the diamond on her finger.  “Do you want this back?” She asked him.

“I didn’t say that.” He told her.  “Give me some time Carla.  This isn’t easy.  Readjusting never is.”

“You’re right.” She admitted.  “I bet when we get back home and you’re in your own home and back to work, well things will start to come together then.”

“Work.” He shook his head.  “I wonder if I even remember what to do.”

“You’ll never forget.” She laughed.  “You are a workaholic, at least you were.”

“Well being on the island hasn’t made me lazy if you’re worried about that.” He assured her.  “But I’m not sure I want to go back to same old same old.  Everything seems so different.”

“I’m the same.” She said softly. 

Nick looked at her and smiled.  “You’re a wonderful woman Carla, a beautiful woman.”

“A woman who loves you Nick.” She promised.  She reached over and turned the light off.  “Let’s get some sleep, things will look different in the morning.”

 

 

Brooke opened her eyes, feeling an intense confusion. She gasped for air and suddenly remembered everything. “Ridge.” She whispered.  “The boat.” She sighed.  Slowly and carefully she slid out of his grasp.  She tiptoed to the door and as quietly as possible opened it.  She made her way out and up to the deck.  The cool night air felt good. She had been stifling in the tiny cabin.  She walked to the edge and looked longingly at the island. 

“Can’t sleep?” Perry’s voice shocked her.

“What? Oh.” She turned to him.  “It’s a bit of an adjustment.”

“De air, it’s good up here.”

“Yes.” She agreed.  “But I’m restless.  I think I’m going to take a walk on the beach.” 

“It’s dark.  It be past 3AM.” He told her.

“I’m used to the darkness.” She explained.  “It will be safe.  I know the island very well.”

“I imagine you do.” He told her.  “Does Ridge know you’re gone?”

“He’s sleeping.” She said softly.  “I won’t be long.” She smiled at him and made her way to the back of the boat.  She carefully went down the ladder.  She held the nightgown up so it wouldn’t hit the water and then she waded to shore.  Finally feeling free she let out her breath.  She hadn’t even realized she had been holding it.  She felt hot and sticky and that made her destination an easy one.  With confidence she made her way down the long beach. 

 

 

“Two with one mind.” Perry said to himself.  “Miss Carla and Ridge don’t know what they are fighting, or maybe they do.”

 

 

The sound of the familiar waterfall made Brooke pause and smile.  With a slight giggle she took off with a run.  Once she reached her destination she pulled the nightgown over her head and dove headfirst into the cool water.  “Ahhhhhhhh.” She said when she emerged.  She splashed herself and started to play like a child and then finally she lay back and gently floated, looking up at the stars.  A full moon lit the sky until it disappeared between a cloud.

“A truly heavenly sight.” Nick said as he stepped into the water.

“Nick.” Brooke gasped.  She sat up and covered her breasts with her hands.

“After all we’ve been through?” He asked.

“You’re right.” She said, lowering her hands.  “Are you coming in? It feels really good.”

“It would be the first thing all night that does.” He said.  “Would you mind the company?”

“I’d love it.” She admitted.

“Good.” He said.  He stepped back to the beach and removed first his tee shirt and then his shorts.  When he turned to face Brooke she gasped at the evidence of his feelings for her.  “Sorry Princess, you have this effect on me.” He said as he waded into the water. He then lowered himself down and swam out to her.  Once he reached her he pulled her into his arms. Their mouths immediately met in an explosion of passion.  Brooke wound her legs around his waist as she pulled herself closer to him, not once stopping the kiss.  “I love you.” He whispered into her mouth.  “Nothing has changed Princess, I’ve seen her and I still love you.  Nothing is ever going to change that.”

“Nick.” She softly moaned.

“Free me from my prison Brooke, tell me you love me too, tell me you want a life with me.  Please.” He begged her.

“Oh Nick, it’s not that easy.” She reached up to stroke his face.

“It’s not hard either.  But it will be if you turn me away.  We were drawn to each other, can’t you see that?” He asked.

“Habit.” She murmured.  “We’re used to this, we’re used to each other, I couldn’t sleep I.” Her words were once more cut off by his intense kiss.  “I love you.” She finally admitted. Tears streamed down her cheeks. 

“Then we’ll make it.” He promised her. 

“We can’t.  I won’t do that to her, I won’t do it to you.” She said as she clung to him.

“To me? To me?” He smoothed her wet hair back.  “Losing you would be doing something to me.  Having you, loving you, that would be a gift from heaven Brooke.  I need you, I do.”

“Please don’t do this to me.  Please just let me relish being in your arms right here, right now.” She begged him. 

“You’re shivering.” He said.  “Come on.” He lifted her into his arms and carried her out of the water and into their shelter. He carefully laid her down on the cot. “I feel like we’re home.” He said with a smile. 

“It’s almost like it was a lifetime ago and not just a few hours.” Brooke opened her arms to him. “Let’s not waste the precious time we have.”

“We can have a lifetime.” He said as he lay down with her.

“We’ve got tonight Nick, I can’t promise any tomorrow’s.” She linked her leg around his.  “Make love to me, make this a time we’ll will always remember.”

“We will have tomorrow Brooke. We will.” He promised.  His lips captured hers and his body covered her smaller one.  They were so natural and so comfortable with each other that almost as if by will of them selves their bodies yielded to each other. Brooke moaned deeply as he entered her and her legs traveled high around his waist and up his back.  They found a slow, easy rhythm that seemed to build and build.  Mouths and hands explored as they pushed and pulled together.  Words of love and passion were whispered and then shouted and when they finally hit a climax it was practically simultaneous.  

“Wow.” Brooke sighed and kissed his neck.  “How could it be any better?”

“It can’t Princess, not with anyone else.” He softly planted kisses over her face and neck.  “I won’t let you go.  I can’t let you go.”

“Not tonight, but soon Nick, soon we have to let each other go.” She said sadly. 

“I won’t let you go without a fight Brooke.” He said.  He pulled her tighter and kissed her.  “You’re too important to me.”

“My sweet Nick.  I do love you so.” She said in a sleepy voice.  She closed her eyes and curled up against him.  “Don’t let me fall asleep.” She said with a yawn.  “We don’t want them to know we’re gone.”  But as the last word came out of her mouth she fell asleep in his arms. 

 

 

“Brooke?” Ridge sat up in bed finding himself alone. For a moment he feared that it had all been a dream but he could still smell her scent in the air.  “Logan? Where are you?” He softly called out.  “The head.” He smiled and got up.  He walked out of the cabin and to the small ship’s bathroom, but the door was open and Brooke was nowhere to be found.  “Brooke?” He called out, a little bit louder this time.  Not getting an answer he decided to try up on deck, perhaps she was a little restless.  He made his way up the narrow stairs and onto the still dark deck.  In the distance he could see the beginnings of the starting day but he knew it was still early.  Perry was sitting in silence, sipping a mug of hot coffee.  “Perry, have you seen Brooke?” Ridge asked.

“She couldn’t sleep, she went for a walk.” He told him.  “Coffee is ready.” He informed the man.

“A walk? Alone? That’s dangerous!” Ridge gave the man a sharp look.

“She been on this island a long time Ridge, I tink she safer than any of us would be.”

“It’s dark and she’s alone.  What time is it?” Ridge asked as he had forgotten to put his watch back on.

“Almost five tirty, da sun be up soon.  She’s fine Ridge, you got to give her space.  Dis not so easy for her.”

“Not easy? Not easy?” Ridge repeated.  “We’ve rescued her, the hard stuff is over, she’s safe now and I intend to keep her that way.  Which way did she head?”

“Down da beach, back to where she came from.” Perry told him.  “Ridge da lady has a lot to tink about.  Let her be, she come back, you know she will.”

“And if she fell or if something happened to her?  Am I supposed to just sit here drinking coffee while Brooke is out there all alone?”

“She may be mad you come looking for her Ridge.  She be on her own a long time, your lady, she seem strong and independent.” Perry protested.

“No Perry, she needs me.  She may try to act strong, but Brooke has always needed me.  I’ve let her down over and over again, but not now.” He turned to head down the stairs.

“Where you going?” Perry asked.

“To get a shirt and put my sneakers on, I’m going to find Brooke.”

 

 

Nick woke up and kissed the woman in his arms.  “I’m not going to lose you Princess, not you and not our baby.” He gently let her go and got up off the cramped cot.  He slipped his shorts on, grabbed his shirt and shoes and tiptoed out of the shelter.

 

 

Not as adept at traveling the island Ridge was having a harder time finding his way.  He knew the general direction but he had chosen to travel inland as opposed to walking along he beach as both Brooke and Nick had done earlier.  The sun was already rising when he finally came to the tall cliff.  He surveyed his options and slowly made the long assent.  Once he was on top he saw the second beach below.  Using his hand to shield his eyes from the reflecting water he checked out the beach, to his dismay Brooke was not there.  “She must be at that waterfall.” He sighed to himself.  Once more he got his bearings and headed out towards where he hoped to find Brooke. 

 

 

“Mmmmmmmmm.” Brooke moaned and rolled over.  “Nick?” She called out as she sat up.  “Damn, we weren’t supposed to fall asleep.  I didn’t want this.”  She stood up and stretched, smiling to see Nick had brought her nightgown in from the waterfall where she had left it.  “Thank you Magellan.” She whispered as she slipped it over her head.  “Now where are you?”  She walked to the door to look for him but instead was suddenly face to face with Ridge. 

“Logan! Thank God, I was so worried about you. Why did you leave?  What’s wrong?”

“Ridge!” She gasped, looking around quickly for Nick.  “I, um, was restless, I’m not used to sleeping in.  By this time I’m usually out trying to catch breakfast.  I just um, needed to take a walk.”

“Is this where you stayed?” He asked her.

“It’s cozy isn’t it?” She smiled.

“Yeah, right.” Ridge laughed.  “Logan I need to get you back home where you belong.”

“You’ll get no argument out of me.” She agreed.  “But honestly Ridge, this was a wonderful shelter, it kept us warm and dry and safe, not to mention comfortable.  We were very lucky to find it.”

“Hmmmm.” He said as he looked around.  “So what brought you back? Surely this isn’t more comfortable than Perry’s boat.”

“As a matter of fact, it is.” She explained.  “Ridge I felt so cramped and so, so strange.  It was hot and stuffy.  The air here is so sweet and clean.”

“You make it sound almost like you’ve enjoyed your little experience.” He frowned.

“My little experience as you call it, was life changing.  I’m not and I probably will never be the same woman again. And yes, there was a lot to enjoy. We were alive, we were safe, we had food, water, shelter and beauty.  Ridge there is so much beauty here.” She smiled and looked towards the water and then towards the dense jungle.

“I’ve never seen anything more beautiful in my life.” He agreed, but his eyes were focused solely on her. 

“You know what I mean.” She frowned.  “Once we accepted that we were stuck we started to count our blessings, and there were many Ridge.”

“I suppose so.  But I’ll show you all the blessings you need at home Logan, that’s a promise.”

“Seeing my children will be a blessing.” She agreed. 

“So are you ready to go back?” He asked.  “I did promise you coffee.”

“Let me gather some things.” She told him.  She walked to her suitcase and kneeled down next to it. 

“Logan, you don’t need those old rags, I have plenty of clothes for you.  Anything you’ll ever need.”

“Please don’t trivialize what I’ve been though Ridge.” She said angrily.  “What you see as old rags, I see as the things that kept me going on.  These things mean something to me, and I’m not prepared to lose them for you or for anyone!”

“I don’t want to fight with you.” He said, somewhat hurt.  “You take anything you want.  But remember, once you’re home, this will all be a distant memory.”

Brooke let her hand fall to her belly, which she rubbed softly.  “Not everything.” She whispered softly.

“Hmmm?” Ridge asked as he further inspected the campsite.

“Memories.” She said.  “I’ll bring them back and never lose them.”

“I hope you’ll lose all the bad ones Logan, in fact, I will make it my mission in life to see that you do.”  He put his arm around her.  “I promise you Brooke, I will protect you for the rest of your life.  You’ll never have work like you did ever again.  I will cherish you and love you and protect you.”

“Ridge, I’m not a china doll.” She sighed.  “And hard work never hurt anyone.  I learned a lot here, I learned that I CAN take care of myself and I CAN survive.”

“But Logan.  I don’t want to see you ever have to do that stuff again, I want to pamper you and spoil you.  I want to take you to a spa and wash all your worries away.  I want to love you and cherish you and.”

“Ridge.” She stopped him.  “I understand what you’re saying, but you have to understand that I am damn proud of what I accomplished here.  I made a difference.”

“She saved a life.” Nick said as he walked up and joined them.

“Parker? What are you doing here?” Ridge asked.

Nick showed him the handful of oranges and lemons.  “Juice, I always try and make Brooke juice in the morning.”

“Oh Nick, that’s so sweet.” Brooke smiled at him. 

“Carla thought she smelled citrus.” Ridge commented.  “But you didn’t have to go to all this work, we have concentrate and it’s a hell of a lot easier.”

“But not half as thoughtful.” Brooke smiled and gave Nick a kiss on the cheek. 

“Well, let’s go back and get some breakfast.” Ridge said, trying to save some face.  “After all, I can offer coffee.”

“And that sounds like heaven.” Nick laughed.  “Shall we Princess?” He offered her his arm. 

“I’m ready.” She smiled and took it. 

 

 

“Where is everyone?” Carla asked Perry.  She had woken up alone, but seeing the sun shining she wasn’t concerned.  She showered and dressed and then came up on deck. 

“Evabody had wanderlust.” He grinned at her.  “Cept you and me I suppose.”

“They went together?” She asked.

“Nope, all three on their own, but I magine they may have met up.”  He pointed to the coffeepot.  “Have some before I make more.”

“Thanks.” She said as she poured a cup. 

“You sleep well?” He asked.

“The best in months.” She smiled.  “Thank you.”

“Must been nice knowing you man okay.”

“It was a relief to say the least.” She agreed.  “But things will be strange for awhile.  He’s restless and he feels strangely about things.” She let out a sigh.  “She’s beautiful isn’t she?”

Perry didn’t need to ask whom she meant.  “Yes, but no more den you are.”

“Flatterer.” She laughed.  “No, I’m no competition for her.”  She looked out towards the sea.  “He’s in love with her, at least he thinks he is.”

“I could see dat.” Perry admitted.  “But under dem circumstances, it not strange.”

“No, not at all.  I’m sure once he’s home he’ll get past it.  I just need to give him space.  Space and understanding.  I won’t pressure him.  Do you think Ridge knows?” She asked.

“No, he oblivious to it all.  He just see his lady like she has a big halo around her.”

“That’s what I though.” Carla sat down.  “Do you think she loves him?”

“Ridge or Nick?” Perry asked her.

“Hmmm, good question.  Either, both, you tell me.” She said. 

“She seem confused too.  She seem to care about Nick, but her eyes light up with Ridge too.”

“I did notice that.  He’s her hero I suppose.”

“And heroes never be taken for granted.” Perry reminded her.

“But Brooke is Nick’s heroine.  He told be how she nursed him back to life, he told me how she was the one to catch the fish and find the shelter and the water.  Nick is a city boy and he had no survival skills, he depended on her, but then she did on him for other things.  No matter what she had over him in knowledge, he had it in strength.  They both needed each other.  And the long lonely nights, Perry, that’s what scares me the most.  I’ve found him but I may already have lost him.”

“It’s only been a few hours.” He reminded her.  “Tings not like they will be when you get back to the big city.  She has kids, she has a job too.”

“Yes.” She said after a sip of coffee.  “In California, that does work to my advantage.”

“And Ridge, he’s stubborn, you’ve seen that.  He want her, he not gonna let her go, not to your Nick, dat for sure.”

“Nick doesn’t like losing either.” Carla sighed.  “But only time will tell us all what will happen.”

“We in for a long couple of weeks here on dis island together.” Perry laughed. 

“I’m glad I have you to talk to.” Carla told him with a smile.  “Promise me you’ll always be honest and not let me pretend things aren’t as they are.”

“I doubt you’d be able to do dat.” He smiled at her. 

 

 

“Did you walk inland?” Brooke asked Ridge.

“It’s how we found it in the first place.” He answered her.  “Sorry, I don’t have the same experience as you do Logan.”

“It’s a more pleasant and easier walk along the beach.” She explained.  She stopped and looked out on the water.  “They’re still there Nick.  Do you think?”

“Maybe.” He sighed.  “Hey Ridge, Perry has a gun doesn’t he?”

“Are you planning on shooting me Parker?” He asked the man.

“No.” Nick looked at Brooke.  “Is he always like this?”

“Pretty much.” She giggled.  “But I think I know what you have in mind.”

“I don’t.” Ridge said to both of them, obviously not impressed with the silent conversation between the two.

“I think Nick wants to use it to try and scatter the sharks.” Brooke explained.

“Why not just leave them alone?” Ridge frowned.  “It’s not like you need to fish for your food anymore. Why borrow trouble?”

“Because they are obviously interested in something out there Ridge.  We only found one body, there were two others on board, if that’s what has peaked their attention I think we owe it to them to give them a proper resting place, don’t you?” Nick shook his head and then looked out again.  “Something has them riled.”

“We can come back after we eat.” Brooke told Nick as her stomach rolled on cue.

“Eat, eat, eat.” Nick laughed.  “Is that all you think about?”

“For now, yes.” She giggled. “What’s for breakfast Ridge?”

“I’m not sure, but we have sausage and powdered eggs and bread and lots of coffee, I think you’ll be happy even if it doesn’t live up to the Café Russe.”

“If it lives up to my own kitchen you won’t hear me complaining, and Nick.” She grabbed his arm.  “I’m a terrible cook.”

“You never had a complaint from me.” He leaned over and kissed her cheek, causing Brooke to blush deeply.

“What can I do to a fish over a fire or a coconut?” She asked him.

“Made it taste like nirvana.” He smiled and stroked her arm lovingly.

“Well, I promise you’ll both be even more happy with what Perry has provided for us.”

“Oh yeah, about the boat, what’s wrong with it?” Nick asked.

“I’m not a mechanic so I really couldn’t tell you.” Ridge walked up to Brooke and took her arm.  “So shall we stop watching the fishies eating and go get our own meal?”

 

 

 

Bridget Sharpe stepped into the elevator and immediately her eyes went to the beautiful woman.  They weren’t alone, there were two textile workers as well as a security guard but the woman commanded attention by her mere presence.  “Are you a model?” Bridget asked her.

“Excuse me?” Tatiana turned towards they young girl. “Were you speaking to me?” She asked in an accent that Bridget couldn’t quite place.

“A model, I asked if you were a model.” Bridget moved closer to her. 

“Yes.” Tatiana said with a smile. “I was just hired for the new tribute line.  Are YOU a model too?” She seemed disturbed at this concept.

“Me? No, well I did do a little modeling but I’m a medical student.”

“I see.” Tatiana answered, not really interested in pursuing the conversation further.  She turned her attention back to the floor numbers.

“Did Thorne hire you?” Bridget asked. 

“Uh, yes.” Tatiana turned back to her.  “Do you know him?”

“I should, he’s my brother.” Bridget laughed.  “I was looking at the photos he had, but I don’t remember seeing yours among them.”

“Well, I can’t answer that, but he did hire me. Oh, this is my floor.” She said. 

“Mine too.” Bridget smiled.  The two women got off the elevator and both headed in the same direction down the hallway.  “Are you here to see Thorne?” She asked.

“Actually no.” Tatiana told her.  She was beginning to be annoyed at the little gnat, and yet if she were a Forrester she may fit into her plans.  In an attempt to be polite she stopped and smiled.  “I’m meeting with Deacon Sharpe.”

“Well then we are headed the same place.” Bridget laughed.  “I’m Bridget Sharpe.”

“Deacon’s sister?” Tatiana asked, confused since the child had said she was Thorne’s sister.

“No, his wife.” Bridget clarified. 

Tatiana bit her tongue to contain her laughter.  No wonder Deacon was so hot to get her between the sheets, now she had more ammunition, thanks to his child bride.  “Oh then, I will perhaps go to see Thorne first, I don’t want to take your husband’s attention away.”

“Oh no, his job is important, even if I don’t know quite what it is he does.” Bridget giggled.  “What are you meeting him for?”

“To go over things for the shoot.” She answered.  “But I do need to see Thorne too.  I wouldn’t want to invade upon your time, so I’ll just go to Thorne first.”  She stopped in front of Thorne’s office.  “It was good to meet you Bridget.” She extended her hand.  “Bridget? You’re Brooke Forrester’s daughter?”

“Logan, Brooke Logan.” Bridget corrected her.  “Yes, Brooke was my mother.” She said sadly.

“Was?” Tatiana gave her a confused look. “Oh yes, I’m sorry, how crude of me.  Your mother was a beautiful woman and this line is a loving tribute to her, you should be proud.”

“They could shove the tribute if I could have my mother back.” Bridget said in a snippy voice.  “Sorry, I just get so angry when it seems my mother’s memory is worth nothing but company profit.”

“But she loved the company, I’m sure she’d be proud to see a line in her name making the company so very rich.”

“Yeah, she would.  Mom always saw the best in everyone and everything, even her rivals.”

“Then you learn to walk in her shoes Bridget Sharpe, they will be hard ones to fill.” Tatiana smiled and walked to Thorne’s door, knocking lightly.

 

 

Nick got up and took Brooke’s plate and then Carla’s.  “That was wonderful.” He told his fiancée.  

“You don’t have to clean up.” She smiled at him. “And thanks, I’m glad you enjoyed it.  You can’t know how much I wanted everything perfect for you.” She turned to Brooke.  “For both of you.”

“It was delicious.” Brooke agreed with Nick.  She stood up and reached for Ridge’s plate. 

“Logan, you don’t have to wait on me.”

“I have to feel useful.” She told him.  She walked to Perry.  “Are you done?”

“Yes I am.” He handed her his plate.  “But Ridge is right, you both should try and rest a bit.”

“Resting doesn’t come easily to me.” Nick explained as he put the plates in the sink.  He reached for the pile Brooke was holding.  “We’ve pretty much been working nonstop since we got here.”

“Then it’s time you had a break.” Ridge chimed in. 

“Actually I was going to offer to help Perry.” Nick announced.

“What do you know about engines?” Carla asked him.

“Nothing, but I am a good gofer.”  He smiled.  “And I know that can be just about as important with a task like this.”

“I think you’d just get underfoot.” Ridge told Nick.  “Why don’t you and Carla just spend some private time together, I know Brooke and I are going to do just that.”

“And make Perry do everything?” Brooke gasped.  “Of course we aren’t going to Ridge.”

“You all be underfoot.” Perry told them.  “But I tank you for the offer.”

“I insist.” Nick told the jovial man.  “I’m not as helpless as Carla makes me out to be.”

“I didn’t mean that.” Carla blushed.  “But you know I’m right, in fact I imagine Brooke would even be more help.” She looked at Brooke.  “What kind of car do you drive?”

“A Jaguar.  Why?” Brooke asked her.

“And you Nick?” Carla turned to him.

“The subway, you know I take the subway Carla.” He said almost apologetically.  “That doesn’t mean I’m useless.”

“But you don’t even have a car, how can you expect to know what to do with a ship’s engine?” Ridge laughed. 

“You know a wrench?  A screwdriver Nick?” Perry asked.

“You bet I do.” Nick glared at Ridge.

“Den you da man, I call out and you hand me da tools okay?” Perry said, making it clear that he wouldn’t stand for this man being embarrassed again.

“Sounds like a plan.” Nick shook his hand.  “And then later Perry, I’d like you to help me check out the sharks, they’re circling something and I want to know what it is.”

“He never stops.” Ridge sighed.

“He right Ridge, it might be de odder people from da plane.  If so we get dem and bury dem.” Perry looked at Nick.  “We work of de engine for a bit, den we go and check your sharks.”

“Thanks Perry.” Nick shot Ridge a sarcastic smile.

“Carla, why don’t you and I gather more fruit and water?” Brooke suggested. 

“Alright.” Carla agreed. 

“What about me?” Ridge wondered.

“You can nap.” Nick said with a smirk.

“Ridge can explore.” Brooke suggested. 

“Explore?” Ridge frowned. “Why would I do that?”

“Because I want you to learn to appreciate the beauty here Ridge.” Brooke told him.  “And maybe you’ll find something new. It’s amazing what you can come up with.” She smiled but suddenly frowned as Ridge grabbed her arm and pulled her aside, out of hearing and viewing range. “Ridge!”

“Logan, are you trying to get rid of me? You’ve been avoiding me since we got here to the boat and frankly I just don’t understand it.” He let go of her and looked at her like a sad puppy dog.

“I’m doing nothing of the sort Ridge.  I honestly think you need to learn to appreciate what I’ve been through.  If you have something else you want to do then just do it.”

“Logan I know you’re uncomfortable right now, but I know you love me.  I wish you’d just spend the day with me.  We need that, we need to be alone together.”

“I won’t run out again tonight.” She promised.  “Ridge I know you care, I do, and I don’t mean to hurt you, but you’re rushing me with all these feelings you’ve been throwing out at me.  You need to remember that the day I left for that business trip, you were happily married to Taylor and barely giving me the time of day. I was hurting.  I had gone through some horrible times Ridge.  I was trying to distance myself from you.  Now suddenly you expect me to believe you love me and want to marry me and that Taylor was some big mistake.  Sorry Ridge, but I am having a very hard time with this.”

“I do love you Logan.” He pulled her to him.  “I loved you before you left.  I tried so hard to find the words to tell you, I tried to find a way to say I was sorry for everything I had put you through.  I needed to end things with Taylor, I had to do that before I could come to you.  I was never going to make you be the other woman.  I was never going to let you doubt what you meant in my heart, but then you were gone and there was nothing I could do, nothing.  Do you have any idea how helpless I felt?”

“I didn’t get lost on purpose.” She said softly.

“I know.” He laughed and hugged her.  “I’m just so glad you’re safe, I’m so glad I have you in my arms again and Logan, I don’t ever want to lose you again.”

“You divorced her even when you thought I was dead.” Brooke softly stated. 

“I told you, I knew you were alive. But yes Brooke, I divorced her, I couldn’t be with her, not when it was you I loved.”

“What about the children, this must really be horrible for them?” Brooke asked.

“I haven’t been fair to them, I know that. I’ve been preoccupied with finding you. I know that when I get home I’m going to have to find some time for them, special time, but that doesn’t mean I won’t be with you.” He explained.

“Ridge I am not ready for this.” She protested.  “And I’m sure your children are going to look at me like the horrible enemy.”

“They won’t Logan, Taylor and I made it an amicable split.”

“No Ridge, it never is with children, they feel abandoned and they feel like you abandoned their mother too. Now if you bring me into the middle of it I’ll look like the evil stepmo.” Her words were cut off as he took her mouth in a deep kiss. Brooke sighed and closed her eyes, letting her arms go around his neck.  “Evil stepmother.” She said when they parted.  “Ridge, you shouldn’t have done that.”

“Don’t tell me you felt nothing because I know you felt exactly what I did.” He reached and stroked her hair.  “I love you Logan, and nothing and no one is going to keep us apart this time. No one.”

 

 

“Your neck is going to be contorted forever if you don’t stop straining it like that.” Carla admonished Nick.  “Let them have some alone time.  No matter how you feel and what you think, this man traveled thousands of miles to find her, he loves her and I think that she loves him too.”

“I don’t like his style.  He’s arrogant and pushy.  Did you see how he pulled her like that?” Nick complained. 

“Nick please.” Carla begged.  She didn’t have to say another word because Nick realized that he was hurting her with his jealousy. 

“I’m sorry.” He walked up to her and put his arm around her.  “I know how hard this is on you.  I know I’m being insensitive and I am truly sorry.  I don’t mean to hurt you, I just.” He looked back to where Brooke and Ridge had disappeared.

“As strange as it may seem Nick, I do understand.” She sighed.  “Look, we have a couple of weeks where we all have to live together.  I don’t know what the future holds for any of us, but we need to find a way to do this with as few problems as possible.  I have told you that I won’t push you, and I won’t Nick, but I can’t speak for Ridge or for Brooke so you’re going to have to live with whatever they decide their relationship is.  Can you do that?”

“I’m not sure, but I guess I don’t have much of a choice do I?”

 

 

“So are you okay with everything?” Thorne asked Tatiana as he watched her scrutinizing the list he had given her.

“Yes, yes I think it’s all fine.” She looked up at him and smiled. “When is the first shoot?”

“I’d like to do some prelim shots today, I have Giovanni coming in okay?”  He looked down again and then looked up.  “Tatiana is everything okay with Deacon?”

“How?” She asked him.

“He’s new, he’s family and without much experience or um, class.  If he gives you a hard time about anything I want you to let me know okay?”

“He’s been very polite and professional, and helpful too Thorne.” She informed him. 

“Good, but you tell me if he is anything otherwise, this is far too important to have to spend any time fixing Deacon Sharpe’s messes.” Thorne complained.

“He’s not a problem Thorne, I can assure you, he has been very helpful to me.”

“Okay.” He said.  “Then you go see him and he’ll set you up with Giovanni.  And remember.”

“To come to you if there is a problem, yes Thorne.” She smiled coyly at him.

 

 

Taylor pushed her hair back behind her ears as she straightened up the living room. It had been a busy morning, Catherine had taken the children to school but the morning had been crazy.  Thomas had complained about his breakfast, the twins refused to wear what Taylor had put out for them and then they had all started in on “when is Daddy coming home?” chanting.  Taylor was so angry at Ridge she couldn’t seem to control herself, yet she had kept her emotions in check until the children had left the house.  Once they were gone she had done something she was immediately ashamed of.  She had trashed his clothes and torn up their wedding photo and then spent a good ten minutes sobbing on the sofa.   The only salvation was a call from a colleague who had been pressuring her to restart her practice.  Taylor had been putting her off for weeks but today she had finally said yes.  And saying yes had brought an instant calmness to her.  She hadn’t realized how much she missed her work.  Now she had something to look forward to.  She was about to turn on some soft music when the doorbell rang.  “What now?” She asked aloud.  “Coming!” She called out.  She opened the door to find Stephanie.  “Again?” She asked and then blushed at her rudeness.  “Sorry, I didn’t mean it like that, it’s just.”

“I know, I was here last night.” Stephanie said, entering without an invitation.  She started looking around the room.

“What?” Taylor asked.  “What are you looking, oh my God Stephanie, are you looking for Peter?”

“Should I be?” Stephanie asked.

“If I chose to have a man spend the night it’s no one’s business but my own, but no, he isn’t here and he didn’t stay. Honestly!”  Taylor sighed in exasperation. 

“You’re moving so fast honey, I’m just concerned.” Stephanie told her. 

“I’m not really.  We had a couple of dates, he’s a nice man, he’s a friend.”

“But it’s too soon to have a strange man around the children, do you have any idea how confusing that is for them?”

“They’re MY children Stephanie, and I am NOT confusing them. It’s good for them to have a male role model.”

“They have Ridge, they have Eric, they have Thorne, they have Rick they have.”

“Enough Stephanie!” Taylor protested.  “Peter is nothing but a friend, the kids had fun with him.  I promise you I am not confusing them. If anyone is it’s their runaway father.”

“He’ll be home soon, I’m sure of it.” Stephanie cooed.

“Have you heard from him?” Taylor asked.

“He can’t keep this up much longer.” Stephanie walked to the couch and sat down.  “He’s not going to find her, not dead or alive.  I’ve spoken to people, there would be no body, not now, not after all this time.  Ridge knows he has responsibilities and he has to come home to face them.”

“I hope so Stephanie.” Taylor sat down next to him.

“Do you?” Stephanie hopefully questioned her.

“Not for the reasons that you’re thinking. Ridge and I are through, but he has children and I want him to be an important part of their lives.”

“He loves you Taylor.  And when he comes home he will realize just how much he needs you.” Stephanie said in a vain attempt to turn Taylor around.

“I’m sorry, it’s just too late.” Taylor said sadly.  “It was the day I found that letter, it was the day he wrote that letter.  My anger at him, towards me, is fading, but my anger at him and his treatment of our children grows day by day.  For God’s sake Stephanie, he could call them! He doesn’t need to talk to me but he could call them!”

“You’re right, there has to be a reason.” Stephanie said looking down at the floor.

“If there is I’d like to hear it.” Taylor scoffed.  “Stephanie I have to say this, and I’m sorry if it offends you, but you’re acting like this is all my fault, like I did something wrong, something to drive him away and I didn’t.  I loved him, I loved our family, I never betrayed him, never!”

“Never?” Stephanie turned to her.  Her face became stone-like with cruelty.

“No, I never, oh Stephanie, you’re not talking about that, that was a million years ago, it was a mistake, but Ridge was carrying on with Brooke, he threw her in my face every single day, he ignored my pain, I was hurting and I didn’t do it to get back at him, I thought I was going to die, we were just reaching out to each other for some comfort in our final moments!”

“That makes it okay?” Stephanie asked.

“More okay than the things he’s done to me, yes.  I tried to tell him! I wrote him a letter! I didn’t know he never saw it, not until it was too late! And even then that doesn’t change things. We got our life back together and he let me down again, so don’t you dare throw that in my face.”

“You’re very defensive for something that means nothing.” Stephanie said softly.

“What point does this have anyway?  A long forgotten mistake?  I don’t even see James anymore. I’m no longer with Ridge. My marriage is over! Brooke is dead! Nothing good can come from bringing it up!  Do you want me to tell Ridge? Fine! I’ll tell him, but that still doesn’t excuse his abandoning his children!” Taylor protested.

“No, it doesn’t.” Stephanie took her hand.  “And no, I don’t want him to ever know. I was just saying that you had your mistakes too, and you went on to find happiness together.  Can’t you give him another chance now?  Think about it Taylor.  When you came home you were at the lowest point in your life, and Ridge did come through for you.”

“Eventually.” Taylor frowned.

“But he did, he knew how much he loved and needed you. YOU Taylor! And he will do that again once this little mission of his ends.  All I am asking is you not become involved with another man and that you be open to Ridge.  You two have weathered some hard storms together, you can do it again.  I know he loves you and I know you love him too.”

Taylor looked at Stephanie and for the first time in a while, the older woman felt a smidgen of hope.

 

 

Carla stood in the doorway of the shelter and looked inside. It was small, it was dark but it must have been an oasis for them.  Her eyes lit on the tiny cot.  Unable to help herself she walked inside and like a moth to a flame she was drawn to the tiny love nest.  She reached down and touched it, almost expecting a shock.  “So it was here.” She said to herself.  She sighed and turned away.  Brooke’s open suitcase beckoned her.  She knelt down next to it and inspected the colorful sarong as well as the translucent white nightgown.  “You must have looked like an angel to him.” She whispered.  “How am I supposed to compete with this? How?”

“Carla?” Brooke walked in, her arms full with fruit.  “Hey, great idea. I can empty it and we can carry more fruit that way.” She walked up to the other woman.  “You like our little nest?” She giggled.  “Not much but it kept us warm and dry.”

“I’m glad you had it.” Carla told her.  “I’m glad you had each other.”

“I don’t think I would have survived if I was alone.” Brooke admitted.  “I was pretty lost until I found Nick, and then I thought he was dead at first.  And he may claim I did it all, but that’s not true.  Nick was as important to our survival as I was.  I think I was a little luckier in fishing though.”

“You impressed him, I know that.” Carla smiled.  “And Nick is not easily impressed.”

“Nick is a male chauvinist pig.” Brooke laughed.  “But a nice one. You’re a lucky woman Carla.”

“I never knew just how much I loved him until I lost him.” Carla admitted.

“That often happens.” Brooke agreed. 

“And Ridge? What about the two of you?” Carla asked.

“I loved Ridge just about my entire life, but he and I never could seem to be at the same place at the same time. Fate was always against us.” Brooke sighed.

“Maybe not this time.” Carla commented.  “I’ve never seen a man so devoted to anything in my life and I’ve never seen a man so determined or so sure of something. No matter what anyone said he never gave up hope, no, no it wasn’t hope, he was positive, he knew you were alive.  He could feel you, he even said he heard you call out to him, now that is love.”

“I did call out to him.” Brooke answered.  “Ridge and I have always had a very strong connection, even when he was married to someone else, he knew when I needed him and he usually was there for me.”

“Then you’ll make it.” Carla smiled.

“It’s not that easy.  He’s let me down too Carla, and I’ve grown and changed.  Sometimes just loving someone isn’t enough.” She closed her eyes and seemed lost in though.  And she was, her comments though seemingly spoken about Ridge fit Nick perfectly.  Brooke opened her eyes and looked at the other woman.  “Are you and Nick happy? I mean really happy?”

“I have to wonder what he told you about me.” Carla began.  “Did he say that I am the emotionless ice queen? A woman more interest in propriety and position than love?”

“Carla.” Brooke protested.

“It’s alright, because in a way I was.  Nick and I are very much alike.  Neither of us had much love or happiness in our lives.  We came together because of what we had in common, more so than anything else, but I do love him and I do think he loves me too.”

“He never said you were an ice queen and even if he had, I know you’re not.” Brooke confessed.  “I like Nick very much Carla, we’ve come to care about each other very much, it’s only natural, and I just want him to be happy.  I’m sorry, this really isn’t my business or my place.”

“I do make him happy Brooke.” Carla assured her.  “And when we’re back home, he’s going to realize that he’s back where he belongs.  An adventure can be confusing, but reality is all that really matters isn’t it?”

“Reality.” Brooke absently stroked her stomach.  “What is reality?  That’s what I just don’t seem to know anymore.  I know Ridge thinks he is my reality but I just don’t know what is any longer.”

“You’re a smart woman Brooke.” Carla told her.  “A successful businesswoman.  You live in a world that Nick and I know nothing about.  We could never really fit into your world, yet for you, it is reality isn’t it?  I don’t think my reality could ever be yours.”

“Sometimes things change.  I wasn’t born rich, I came from humble beginnings myself.”

“But would you want to turn around and go back?” Carla asked.  “Would you be happy living paycheck to paycheck, living in a small apartment? Starting all over?” Carla exaggerated.  

“I hardly think you or Nick lives paycheck to paycheck.” Brooke laughed.  “But I do see your point.  Your life is what you’re used to and mine is what I am used to.  Maybe it is that simple.”  She turned and looked at Carla.  “I’m just not sure why you’re trying to impress this on me though.”

“I love him Brooke.  I know he’s confused and I know things are different, but I love him and I know I can make him happy and I know he makes me happy.  Do you think living in his world at home could make you happy?”

“Carla I.”

“No.” Carla stopped her.  “I’ve seen the looks, the longing looks between both of you.  I’m not stupid and I’m not naïve.  I know you’ve been here all alone for a long time.  You haven’t been playing solitaire.  But it’s not the same anymore.  You ARE going home and you do have a life to go home to.  All I am asking is you let us go home to our life too.  Set him free Brooke, he’ll never be enough for you and you’ll hurt him when you tire of him.  You have a man who adores you, a man you admitted that you have loved all your life.  We can both win here.  Or we can all lose.  It’s in your hands Brooke. I trust you to make the right decisions.”  Then Carla got up and walked out of the shelter leaving Brooke alone with her thoughts.

 

Chapter 15


Brooke took the long way back to the boat. She needed time to think. She needed to make sense of things. It had all happened so quickly and she didn’t know what to do anymore. She could no longer trust her heart, or her head. A part of her longed to run to Nick, hold onto him and never let him go, but another part knew she couldn’t hurt Carla and that Nick couldn’t either. She didn’t know how she felt about Ridge. If he had found them days or maybe even weeks after they had been stranded she would have readily accepted his proposal. But things were different now. She was pregnant, pregnant with Nick’s baby. Brooke looked down and rubbed her still slim stomach. “I love him, God help me I love him. How can I turn away? This could be my one chance for a normal relationship, a lasting and loving marriage. Oh Nick why does it have to be so hard?” She wiped a tear from her eye and stood up straight. “I have to be strong, for all of us. I can’t let emotions color my decisions. I have to do what’s right for everyone, for me, for Nick, for Ridge, for Carla and for you baby.” She smiled and touched her belly. “I have to think, I have to think.”


“Otay, I tink we take a break and go check out your sharks.” Perry said as he handed Nick several tools. “I tank you very much, we made a lot of progress. You know more bout motors den your lady tink you do.”
“I’m just a quick study.” Nick laughed. “But thanks, it was good for my fragile ego.”
“I serious Nick. You been a great help, I be counting on you to still help me.”
“You got it.” Nick said. He moved out of the way so Perry could get out of the tight work area. “So how did the engine get so bad? You sure don’t seem like someone who’d let his boat go to hell.”
“We stayed out longer den I planned. Too much salt water, too much wear and tear on da engine and too much pushing too far. But Ridge, he be right, he knew we had to keep going, and we found you. My boat, she be repairable and once we get to land Ridge promise to get me help. She’ll be better den ever.”
“If Ridge doesn’t get you help, I sure will.” Nick told him.
“You be happy to get home right mon?” Perry asked him.
“What a crazy question. Of course I’ll be happy to get home.” Nick frowned.
“You and Carla, mebbe you get married soon? I know she want dat.”
“A lot has happened Perry. We both have a lot to think about. We both need to get used to each other again.” Nick started up the stairs but Perry grabbed his arm.
“She a good woman Nick, and she love you berry much.”
“I know she is.” Nick said in a tone that could only be described as sad.
“Brooke seems like a good woman too. But Nick, a man who make commitments, he need to settle dose before he move on or even tink about movin’ on.”
“We didn’t plan on being stranded together.” Nick told him. “We didn’t plan on falling in love.”
“You just make sure it really be love before you trow away something as good as wat you got wid Miss Carla. You listen to Perry, he older and wiser den you Nick. Sometimes tings look better den what you got, but dat isn’t always true. You and Brooke could both hurt a lot of people, even yourselves if you jump into someting wid your eyes closed. You mebbe happy here, but home be a whole different ballgame as dey say. Ya got me?” Perry asked him.
“I got you. But Perry, I know it’s real, I know I’m not wrong and I know I love her. If she’ll have me I’ll never let her go and I’ll make her happy. I will.”


“Explore. She says she wants me to explore. And I listen. Why do I listen?” Ridge complained as he pushed his way through the dense vegetation. “Is she trying to get rid of me or is there something she wants me to see? To learn? Logan I love you but this is really pushing it.” He used the back of his hand to wipe his sweaty brow. Stopping he looked back. He had traveled a long way and if he was honest with himself he’d have to admit he was lost. But it was a small island and he knew eventually he’d find his way back to the boat. Right now his mission was to do anything that would make Brooke happy, anything to make her accept his proposal. “We’ve already wasted far too many years.” He muttered. “When I get back I am going to propose again and this time you’re going to say yes!”


“What’s going on?” Carla asked Nick and Perry when she met up with them on the beach.
“I should ask you the same thing.” Nick frowned. “Weren’t you supposed to be collecting fruit with Brooke?”
“Change of plans.” She smiled and grabbed his arm, linking her own through it. “So what are you doing?”
“We’re heading to da beach to check into his sharks.” Perry explained.
“I’ll go with you.” She smiled up at Nick.
“I don’t think so.” He told her. “It could be dangerous and you’ll get scared and scream or something and scare them away. If you don’t want to get the fruit why don’t you go back to the boat.”
“Now why does it seem like you’re trying to get rid of me.” She laughed and turned to Perry. “Tell my fiancé that I’m not the shrinking violet he seems to think I am will you Perry?”
“Where’s Brooke?” Nick asked, ignoring Carla’s comments.
“Back at the shelter. I imagine getting the fruit.” Carla sighed. “Nick it’s really not a good idea for the two of us to be alone you know, we’re liable to scratch each other’s eyes out.”
“What are you talking about?” Nick growled.
“You’re enjoying this aren’t you?” She shook her head. “God, it must be a real trip having two jealous females sniffing around you, but honey, it’s not going to last. She is going to move on and if you continue to alienate me I will too.” She turned her attention back to Perry. “So, shall we go? I’d love to see these big sharks that have Nick so excited.”
“You wanna see dead bodies too Carla?” Nick shouted at her. “Bodies that have been rotting in the sea for months? Shark bitten, blackened bodies? Well be my guest but don’t expect me to hold you while you scream and cry because we have real work to do!”
“Look Nick,” Carla said angrily. “I don’t know what bug crawled up your ass but I’ve just about had enough of this. Between you and Brooke I’ve had it. You want her? Fine, go for it. But believe me, you’re going to end up all alone!” She turned away to walk back towards the boat. Then she stopped and turned around again. “I love you Nick, but I won’t wait forever and I won’t allow you to disrespect me either. So you make up your mind, do you want me or do you want Malibu Barbie?”


Brooke stopped and stood still. She had heard a noise and she and Nick were used to being alert for anything out of the ordinary. Slowly and carefully she looked from side to side, trying to find what it was that had caught her attention. A smile crossed her face when she heard the familiar voice cursing softly.
“Damn, damn, what am I supposed to be? Tarzan? Logan, you owe me.”
Brooke suppressed a giggle and tiptoed towards the voice. She squinted into the sun and was rewarded when she saw him. He was the typical fish out of water. He was sweaty and uncomfortable and oh, so obviously lost.
“Great, just great.” He complained. “I travel thousands of miles across the Caribbean and then get lost on this Godforsaken island trying to EXPLORE for you.”
Brooke almost lost it as he stumbled, pushing the dense vegetation out of his way. He fell to his knees and angrily muttered as he brushed himself off. Ridge was so different from Nick. This man was a hero to her, but he was no Magellan. Realizing that she really should do something, but still enjoying the upper hand she inched closer. She watched him look up at the sky, obviously confused. She frowned and looked up to see what he was seeing, but had no idea what he was looking at.
“Sun, sun, sun.” He mumbled. “How the hell does someone tell directions looking at the sun when they’re so mixed up and turned around to begin with. Damn it!”
At this point Brooke was feeling sorry for him, but not so sorry that she wasn’t having fun. She creeped up on him and jumped up, shouting. “Boo!”
“Shit!” Ridge jumped and turned to her. “Logan?”
Brooke started giggling and then the laughter got harder and harder. Every time she looked at his face she laughed more and more.
“You think it’s funny?” He asked with a frown.
“Yyyyes.” She giggled harder. “What was with the talking to the sun?” She howled.
“I suppose you know where we are?” He challenged her.
“Yes.” She got out between guffaws.
“I’m glad someone is having fun. This exploring crap is for the birds. But you asked me to, so I did it. Now can we go back to the boat and clean up? I’m sweating like a pig.”
Brooke took a deep breath and smiled at him. “So, um, what did you see?”
“Vines! Vines and weeds and bugs and more bugs and sand and rocks and trees and.” Ridge was cut off when Brooke started to laugh again. “It’s not funny Logan.”
“Don’t I know it.” She howled. “But remember, I lived here for all this time. So you can just stop complaining Mister.”
“You’re right.” He said in a solicitous tone. “You’ve been through hell and back and I’m sorry. But that’s why I am so determined to take you home and pamper you.”
“That’s sweet.” Brooke smiled and touched his arm. “But really, it wasn’t that bad. This is a beautiful island, and if it wasn’t for being stranded and away from my family, I think it would be a lovely place to spend time, in fact it is. Now tell me, seriously, did you see anything? Did you have a nice walk?”
“You are serious aren’t you?” He asked her.
“Yes.” She said softly. “We’re here for at least a few weeks, so why not try and enjoy it?”
“I’m sure you and I can think of a few ways to do that.” Ridge winked at her.
“Now Ridge, you know I am not ready to even think about anything like that. But we can have fun. Why don’t we take a walk together? I can show you some beautiful things.”
“I’m looking at one.” Ridge said as he lovingly gazed down at Brooke.
“Ridge.” She said in a whisper.
“You’re so beautiful Logan.” He gently pulled her into his arms and held her. “I still can’t believe I found you, I still can’t believe I have you in my arms.”
“I can’t believe it either.” She looked up into his eyes. “How can I thank you? How?”
“This way.” He smiled and lowered his mouth to hers.


“You bedda go after her.” Perry told Nick. “She mad and you don’t want that.”
“What am I supposed to say Perry? What am I supposed to do? Deny that I love Brooke?” Nick threw up his arms in frustration.
“Mebbe.” Perry scratched his head. “Dat lady.” He pointed to where Carla had headed. “She be wearing your ring Nick. Mebbe you need to deny you love for Brooke. Mebbe you need to remember where you come from before you decide where you heading.”
“I don’t want to hurt her.” Nick sighed. “But Perry, I’ve never felt this way before. How can you expect me to just throw it all away? How can you expect me to forget Brooke?”
“Can you forget Carla?” Perry asked. “And do you really want to? Go to her Nick, you owe her dat much.”
“You’re right. I do.” Nick reluctantly agreed. “But the sharks?” He looked out at the water.
“Dey be here when you get back.” Perry smiled. “Dey not goin’ nowhere.”
“I won’t be long.” Nick promised. He turned and started down the beach towards Carla. He stopped and turned back to Perry. “Thank you.”


Brooke pulled away from Ridge and smiled at him. “I’m glad to see you again too.”
“Logan, it’s more than that and you know it. I love you, I love you and you love me. It’s our time now. Surely this proves it.” He pulled her back into an embrace. “I know you’re scared, I know I’ve let you down before, but never again, never again my love.”
“Ridge.” Brooke looked into his eyes. “I do love you, I’ll always love you, but things are different now. You’ve changed, I’ve changed, we’ve gone down different paths.”
“But they have crossed again Logan.” Ridge explained. “They’ve brought us back together and now our paths are intertwining. We are one now Logan. Believe it. Believe it.”
“Enough of this serious talk.” Brooke smiled at him. “We’re going to have some fun today. I’m taking you exploring.”
“The only exploring I want is us, exploring each other.” Ridge said with a laugh.
“Sorry Charlie we’re going to hike. You said you want me happy, you won’t let me down, so are you going to already? This is what I want.” Brooke said with a twinkle in her eye.
“Then that’s what you’ll get.” Ridge said, giving in. “Lead the way Logan, I’m yours.”


Carla was sitting on a log when Nick caught up to her. He sat down next to her but she didn’t turn towards him, instead she continued to stare out to the sea.
“Carla, I’m sorry.” Nick began but she put her hand up to silence him. They sat there, without speaking for several minutes before Carla turned to face him.
“No Nick, I’m sorry. I was out of line. I was jealous and I lashed out at you. I’m not giving you ultimatums. I suppose I just want to know where I stand, where we stand.”
“I wish I had an answer.” Nick said softly, almost too softly for her to hear.
“I guess that IS my answer.” Carla reached over and took his hand. “You know Nick, I never knew I was so jealous and possessive. I never knew how much I really do love you, how much I counted on you. Now that I’m losing you.” She stopped as her eyes filled with tears. “And I am, aren’t I? I am losing you aren’t I Nick?” She asked.


“Slow down Logan, I am not used to this.” Ridge said with a laugh as Brooke dragged him along a well-worn path. “Just because you know where we’re going doesn’t mean I even have a clue.”
“I thought we could just go sit on the beach, but not the one by the boat, somewhere that we can talk.” She explained.
“I’d like that.” Ridge said with a huge grin.
“No, not about us Ridge, I’d really like you to tell me about my kids. I miss them so much.” Brooke implored.
“A lot has been going on and I’ll tell you everything.” Ridge put his arm around her. “But I’d like to talk about the future too. Our future.”
“This way.” Brooke said, changing the subject. “The beach by the waterfall is this way, it’s nice and since everyone is at the other beach we’ll have some privacy.”
Little did they know that Carla, Nick and Perry were all at that very beach.


Nick put his arm around Carla and took her into his arms. He gently touched her face. “Carla, I wish I had answers. I swear I do. I don’t want to hurt you, I don’t want to hurt Brooke, I don’t want to hurt myself. This whole situation is so confusing. I don’t know which way to turn. I know you want answers, I know you want a commitment, I just can’t make any promises right now. It wouldn’t be fair. There is so much you don’t know, don’t understand and I promise you will, but I need time to sort it all out.”
“You need to chose who you want?” She asked.
“It’s so much more complicated than that. I am engaged to you, I owe you so much and if we are to be together I have to be able to give you 100% of myself. I just don’t know if I can do that right now.”
“Did you ever love me?” She sadly questioned.
“I DO love you Carla.” He said, pulling her closer. “I do love you.” His lips tenderly touched hers in a soft but unromantic kiss.


“This is actually a nicer beach than the one we’re at now, but you did see it when you walked to the.” Brooke stopped short as her eyes set on Nick and Carla.
“Logan?” Ridge frowned. “Is something wrong?”
“We’re, we’re not alone.” The words seemed to stumble from her mouth as her heart crashed into her stomach. Nick was kissing Carla. While Brooke knew that they were engaged and she had told him time after time that she would not break up the relationship it she found the pain so intense that she could barely breathe. “He’s hers.” She whispered.
“Yeah, they do make a nice couple don’t they.” Ridge smiled. “Sort of like us. But I guess we should give them some privacy huh? I imagine they weren’t too comfortable getting to know each other again with us right in the next cabin last night.”
“Please.” Brooke whispered. “Please Ridge, please take me away from here.”


“But you’re not in love with me.” Carla said through her tears as she pulled away from him.
“I thought I was.” He admitted. “But Carla, I never really understood love. Not until Brooke.”
“She’ll hurt you. She isn’t from your world.”
“We’ll combine our worlds, we have a lot to bind us Carla. But I’m not saying that, I mean.”
“You’ve made up your mind Nick, but Brooke hasn’t has she?” Carla looked him in the eyes. “And now you’re hedging your bets. You’re holding onto me as a consolation prize in case Brooke says no. Good old reliable Carla, you can always marry her, she’s sort of cute, she looks good on your arm and she puts on a really good business dinner.”
“Carla.” Nick moaned.
“You know what’s the worst part of this Nick?” She asked, but didn’t wait for his answer. “The worst part is that I’m willing to be that prize, I love you so much that I am willing to stand by and wait and hope she turns you down. How sick is that Nick? Just how sick is that?”


Ridge was concerned about Brooke, she had suddenly turned sad and silent, her jovial teasing mood seemed to have disappeared. They walked further into the dense brush until finally Ridge grabbed her arm and stopped her. “Logan, what’s wrong?”
“I, I, I, I just can’t.” She said, pulling her arm free. She started to walk again but Ridge pulled her back once more.
“Logan, talk to me. Why did that upset you? Are you jealous? Because you don’t have to be.”
“What? What?” She turned and gave him a distracted look.
“You don’t have to be jealous of what they have because I swear it Logan, we have it too, we have so much more. I love you, I’ve always loved you. Brooke marry me, please marry me.”
“I need to be alone. I need to be all alone Ridge. Please, I just need to be alone. Go back to the boat, I’ll see you later.” She then ran from him, ran so fast and so suddenly that the stunned man just stood there staring at where she had been.


“I hate myself, I hate myself for hurting you Carla, and believe me, I didn’t plan it, I didn’t plan any of it. I don’t know what the hell to do.” Nick got up and started to nervously pace. “There is so much more at stake, you just don’t know, you just don’t understand the half of it.”
“Then tell me.” She begged him. “Nick, we’re two reasonable people, we love each other and we’ve always shared a good sense of communication. Don’t throw that away now. Talk to me and maybe we can make sense of it all. I can’t help you if you just fly off the handle.”
“I need to talk to her.” Nick told Carla.
“Nick what is it?” She asked again.
“This isn’t a game Carla, all of us are involved. I just need to talk to her first. This isn’t about you or us, this is about, well I just need to talk to her. I’m sorry, I don’t mean to be evasive, but it’s just something I need to talk to her about, before she does something stupid.”
“Like what Nick, deciding she loves the man she’s loved all her life?” Carla got up and walked over to him. She gently stroked his arm. “You need to accept it if that’s her choice, even if you don’t want us Nick. She loves that man and he loves her. They come from the same place, the same world. This,” She spread her arms in a gesture. “This island, this beach, this world you created, it’s not real. He’s real Nick and sooner or later she’s going to return to him. I think you know that. But you talk to her, I think it’s important that you do. But don’t pressure her Nick, you need to let her tell you what she wants too. And Nick I need you to do one more thing.”
“Yes?” He asked.
“Think about us too Nick. Don’t throw us away for a dream. Please.” Then she leaned over and kissed his cheek. “I’m going back to the boat to start some dinner.”
“Thanks Carla, thanks for everything.” He gave her a hug.
“I love you Nick.” She smiled, touched his cheek and walked away.


“Logan wait!” Ridge shouted as he finally caught up to Brooke. “Come on! Would you please slow down!”
Brooke stopped and turned around. With a look of resignation she waited until he finally made it to her side. “Sorry.” She said softly. “But Ridge, I told you I wanted to be alone.”
“Well, I was lost.” He shrugged. “Oh, come on Logan. Whatever it is, we can work it out.”
“Were you really lost?” She asked him with an almost childlike innocence.
“Almost, well, yeah, I guess I am now.” He laughed. “You wanna rescue me?”
“I’m sorry I ran off like that.” She smiled at him. “You didn’t deserve it. Would you like me to lead you back to the boat?”
“I’d like to spend the day with you like I planned. Didn’t you want to talk about the kids? And don’t you want to hear all about how much Mother misses you?”
“That’s not fair.” She laughed. “I’m trying to be upset and you’re making me laugh.”
“That’s better.” He put his arm around her. “You’re much cuter when you smile.”
“Hmmm, and I thought you loved me no matter what.” She teased.
“Oh, I do Logan.” He gave her a quick kiss. “So what do we do?”
“We climb a mountain.” She grinned and pointed up. “You up to it Forrester?”
“You bet I am Logan.”


“How it go?” Perry asked when Nick returned.
“Don’t ask.” Nick shook his head. “I really hate hurting her, she’s a wonderful woman and I do love her, but Perry, I am so desperately in love with Brooke.”
“And Brooke? Are you sure she feel da same? She seems pretty comforble wid Ridge and I traveled wid da man, he won give up on her. He love her a lot.”
“I’m sure he does.” Nick said with a sigh. “But it’s going to be up to Brooke.”
“Don envy her.” Perry laughed. “Anyway, while you be gone I did a little checking. We got at least four sharks out dere. Dey circling one area over and over again. I waded out and dey got real interested so watever dey wan out there, it’s not as interesting to dem as fresh meat.”
“That’s not so good. Whatever it was, they’re fixated.” Nick assessed. “I wonder if there are more. I mean if we shoot them, more will come won’t they?”
“Dey come for da odder shark blood and body. But mebbe if we can scare dem away for a bit, we can fine wat draw dem here, get rid of it and dey go away. I tink it may be one of da bodies Nick.”
“We buried the girl, so it has to be the pilot or the boyfriend. My guess is the boyfriend. I somehow think the pilot burned up pretty fast. Not only that but he was a real skinny dude, they would have, well finished him by now. The boyfriend was bigger, though I don’t know how there could be much left of a body at this point.” Nick shielded his eyes from the sun and looked out. He saw the black fins as the sharks swam around. “Maybe we should just cut our losses, it’s not like we need the food anymore.”
“All men deserve a decent burial.” Perry told him. “We need to give him one Nick. So we scare dem wid da gun, we go out quick, do wat has to be done, and get back fast. You wid me mon?”
“I’m with you.” Nick gave him a thumb’s up sign. “Let’s do it.”


“Can we rest soon Logan?” Ridge asked Brooke as he gasped for breath. He wasn’t used to climbing and hiking through jungles and he was becoming more and more impressed with his ladylove’s stamina.
“Wimp.” Brooke teased with a giggle and a smile.
“I admit it, I’m a wimp, and a tired one too. And thirsty.” He wiped his brow and leaned against a strong tree.
“We’re almost there and there is a nice stream. Come on, you can hang on a few more minutes can’t you?” She grabbed his arm and started pulling at him.
“If it keeps that smile on that beautiful face I’ll walk all the way home to LA.” Ridge gave her a yank, pulling her into his arms. “And I mean it.” He kissed her forehead.
“I’m sorry I was acting that way before. I guess I’m just too emotional about everything.” She said is a soft, sad voice.
“You have every right to be.” He gently stroked her hair. “I can’t wait to get you home. We’re going to be so happy Logan, I promise you that. I am going to give you the life you’ve always wanted. You’ll never have to ask for another thing, it will be yours just for thinking about it.”
“Oh?” Brooke laughed softly. “So you’re a mind reader now?”
“Only your mind Brooke. We’re one, we’ve always been one, it just took me a little longer to realize that.”
“Ridge.” Brooke pulled herself from his arms. “I can’t promise you anything, I can’t. Things just aren’t the same anymore. I need time and I need space. I need, oh damn, I don’t know what I need. I just don’t need pressure.”
“I’m sorry.” Ridge grabbed her hand. “I never meant to pressure you. I know how hard it is for you to trust me, I know how many times I’ve let you down, but I swear, I swear on everything that is holy that I will never let you down again. If you give me a chance.” He softly added.


Nick put down the shovel and wiped his head. “I think that will do it.” He told Perry. “I just don’t know what we should tell the others.”
“It could be notin.” Perry warily said. “But I doubt it.”
“So do I.” Nick shielded his eyes from the sun and looked out at the water. “I just wonder where he came from, how he got here. I didn’t see or hear a boat or a plane or anything.”
“Dat man not be dead more den a few days Nick.” Perry frowned. “And from wat you tell me about da drugs, I tink dat he meant to be here. I just wonder how he die and who be looking for him.”
“I think it’s time to accelerate the repairs. I want off of this island before someone comes looking for him. I want Brooke and Carla safe from any danger.”
“I gree.” Perry told him. “Mebbe we get Ridge to help us, mebbe even da ladies can do someting. We better get back ta work now, den tomorrow we all work. I wanna get home too Nick. I miss my family. It be my boy’s birfday two week ago and wid da radio off I couldn’t even tell him happy birfday.”
“I’m sorry Perry, I really am.” Nick said sadly. “I promise I will tell everyone in your family how much we all appreciate all you did to find us. You’ll be my hero for life.”
“It stopped being a job a long time ago Nick, it be a quest for all of us. I just really glad it turn out as well as it did.”
“Let’s keep it that way.” Nick warned him. “Let’s get the hell outta here before that guy’s friends show up.”
“So wat we tell dem?” Perry asked.
“The truth.” Nick answered. “They all need to and deserve to know everything that’s going on.”


“Dad? What’s going on Dad? You sounded really bad. Dad?” Thorne looked stunned as he faced Eric.
“Close the door son.” Eric instructed him.
Thorne closed the door and turned back to face the pale face of his father. “What is it? What happened Dad?” He asked again.
“Sit down.” Eric said softly. “I have some bad news.”
“Bad news? What? If it’s about that fabric I know all about it and I’ve found a replacement. It should be here in plenty of time.”
“This has nothing to do with fabric.” Eric picked up a family photo from his desk and looked at it. “I just don’t know how much more this family can take. We’re all still so devastated from Brooke’s death and now.” He shook his head in disbelief.
“You’re scaring me.” Thorne’s eyes widened. “What happened? Please tell me okay?”
“The boat, the boat that Ridge is on has been reported missing.” Eric looked up from the photo at Thorne. “It’s been missing over three weeks. There has been no sign of them.”
“Three weeks!” Thorne angrily stood up. “Three weeks and this is the first we’ve heard of it?”
“I was worried when Ridge didn’t call, but I assumed they were out of range for the phone, that and that he had no news to tell us. But he hasn’t called Taylor and the children either. So I made some calls and it seems Ridge brought a woman with him.”
“A woman? What the hell is my brother thinking?” Thorne shouted and slammed his fist down. “It’s bad enough that he’s throwing his feelings for Brooke in Taylor’s face but now he takes a woman?”
“No, no, it’s nothing like that.” Eric patted his younger son’s hand. “She is the fiancée of the banker that was killed with Brooke. Somehow Ridge convinced her to come along on his trip. Anyway, her firm was getting very frantic about her and when they did some research they found out that the wife of the ship’s captain had gone to the authorities to find out about her husband. He hadn’t contacted her either. He had been radioing her on a regular basis and suddenly it stopped. She wasn’t alarmed for the first few days, she assumed they had radio trouble and he usually called her when they docked somewhere. Now he’s missed his son’s birthday and she’s convinced something has happened. Apparently the authorities agree with her. They’re listed as missing Thorne, missing and that’s not the worst of it. They have been some terrible storms, several ships larger than theirs have gone down. I’m terrified, I’m terrified that we’ve lost your brother.”


“Poor Bridget.” Brooke wiped a tear from her eye. “Oh Ridge, I wish I could let them know that I’m alright.”
“Soon.” Ridge soothed her. “And just think of the joy when you see them for the first time. Part of me even wants to surprise them and just not say anything until I get you home.”
“No, no I can’t do that. As soon as we get to a phone I need to call my kids, I do.”
Ridge pulled her close and looked out at the sea. Brooke was right, the view up here was spectacular. But it must have been frightening for her to make that long climb only to find just how alone she was. “Soon Logan, you’ll be home soon.”
“I just wish she had someone other than Deacon.” Brooke turned to face Ridge. “Is Stephanie there for them? I know Eric must be but they need a woman’s love.”
“Mother has been very supportive. And Taylor too.” Ridge added.
“Yes, Taylor. I’m glad she’s there, she will know all the right things to say to them. She must really miss you though.”
“Logan, I told you, Taylor and I are over, we’re divorced.”
“That just doesn’t seem to register for me.” She admitted. “Tell me about it Ridge. What happened? Why did she leave you? Maybe I can talk to her.”
“We left each other Logan. It wasn’t going to work. I was in love with someone else and she knew it.”
“She thought you were chasing ghosts Ridge. Maybe she was giving you time to get yourself together.”
“We divorced. It’s not something temporary, it’s real. Brooke it’s you, it’s always been you. I was just slow on figuring that out.”
“We never seem to be at the same place at the same time.” Brooke said with a sad smile.
“This time we are.” Ridge gave her hand a squeeze.
“Not really.” Brooke sighed. “This has changed me, I’m not the same Brooke you knew. Everything is different.”
“Not our love.” Ridge insisted.
“Our love?” Brooke asked. “What is that Ridge? This love you’re talking about? Where was it when you left me for Caroline? Where was it when you left me for Eric’s happiness? Where was it when you left me and Bridget for Taylor? Where was it when you left our family again for Taylor and Thomas? Where Ridge?”
“I made mistakes.” He meekly admitted.
“Mistakes? Ridge, our entire history seems like nothing but mistakes. Oh, I admit that I loved you more than I ever loved anyone else. But my love was never enough for you.”
“It was, but circumstances always got in our way.” Ridge protested.
“Circumstances? Like Caroline? Like Taylor? Like your mother?” Brooke shook her head. “And it’s not just about us as a couple. What about our friendship Ridge? You betrayed our friendship in Venice and again and again and again. Thorne and I were happy. We could have had a life but you wouldn’t let that happen. And then when I think we finally will have a life you turn away again. I don’t know if I can ever get over Paris. Why do you think I took this trip?”
“Logan.”
“I took it to get over you Ridge, and I did, I did get over you. Now you expect me to fall back into the same old traps because you say some pretty words? And how long will it last before I do something that disappoints you and you go running off for a more appropriate, acceptable woman? A month, a year? Well I am sorry Ridge but my heart can’t take that roller coaster ride again. You expect me to just drop everything and turn back to you and I can’t!”
“Drop what Logan? You and Thorne are over, you aren’t involved with anyone, I’m divorced, there is nothing in our way, nothing at all! The future is ours. All we have to do is grab it!”
Brooke got up and walked to the edge of the cliff and looked out. She absently rubbed her belly. “Nothing in our way? If only you knew.” She whispered softly to herself.


“Don’t!” Carla pushed Nick’s hand off her shoulder. He had just returned from the beach and came to her from behind. “Please don’t touch me unless it means something.”
“It does mean something.” He said softly. “You know it does.”
“Sorry. I don’t know anything right now Nicholas.” She sighed. “But I don’t want to fight. I guess I’m just defensive.” She looked around. “Where are Perry and Brooke and Ridge?”
“Perry went to the boat to change, I don’t know where Brooke and Ridge are.”
She looked up from the fire to the sky. “It’s getting late, it will be dark soon. Maybe you should go find them.”
“Brooke can get around fine.” He answered.
“But Ridge can’t and he could get her all turned around.” Carla lifted the lid off the pot and sniffed. “Besides, the food is almost done.”
“It smells great.” Nick smiled at her. “You’re becoming quite domestic.”
“Don’t count on it lasting.” She laughed. “With all the hours we put in at the bank it’s going to be back to take out for us.” Her smile suddenly faded when she realized there was a chance they wouldn’t be going home together. Nick saw her sadness and gave her a hug.
“I never complained about takeout and I never will.” He kissed her cheek.
“Go find them.” She smiled again.


“I can’t believe it! I really can’t believe it!” Brooke was giddy with laughter as she danced around Ridge. “Nick was right all along. He is going to give it to me but good. I can’t believe we just saw what we did.”
“It was a pig Logan, what’s the big deal about seeing a wild pig?” Ridge wondered. “They aren’t uncommon on islands like this you know.”
“I didn’t believe him but he swore he heard one and he swore he’d catch it for me.” Brooke smiled at the memory. “And I laughed at him, told him it was going to rain filet mignon.”
“Well, he never caught one did he?” Ridge puffed up his chest like the conquering hero. “So what good did his knowing do?”
“He would have, but I kept laughing at him and he gave in and decided that I was right.” Brooke sighed. “But he was right all along. I’ll never live this down.”
“We don’t have to tell him. I won’t let him embarrass you Logan.”
“Of course we have to tell him. He was right and Brooke Logan admits when she is wrong.” She smiled and laughed again. “You know Ridge, I’m glad now that he did give up. I wouldn’t have wanted him to kill it, it’s sort of cute in it’s own way. Besides, we didn’t need him, we had fish and fruit and well, you found us anyway. But I really am going to have to listen to the I told you so song for the rest of my life.” She giggled again.
“The rest of your life?” Ridge asked with c*cked eyebrows. “I doubt you’ll share more than a Christmas card or an email once we all get home and go our separate ways.”
“Oh.” Brooke stopped as sadness crossed her just happy face. “I suppose you’re right.”
“Hey, if you feel that strongly about it we can go visit them sometime. Carla is a great woman, I know you two would get along really well.”
“Hmmm, like Taylor and I?” Brooke asked.
“This isn’t the same thing at all.” Ridge reminded her. “You and Taylor were well, in competition.”
“And didn’t you love that.” Brooke said sarcastically.
“No, but you know what I meant. Nick and Carla are a couple and we will be too Brooke. Maybe we CAN all be friends, after all, you and Nick did go through a lot together as did Carla and I.”
“You and Carla?” Brooke asked with a squint. Maybe Carla wasn’t interested in Nick anymore, maybe it can work out. But her hopes were instantly dashed by Ridge’s next comment.
“Oh no, no Logan, nothing like that. It’s you, you have nothing at all to be jealous about. I just meant that I really like her and we had some interesting conversations. She’s a classy lady, just like you.”
“Was she attracted to you Ridge?” Brooke wondered as she hung onto hope.
“She only has eyes for Nick.” Ridge answered with a knowing smile. “But I have to say, she didn’t have the faith that he was alive like I had about you. They are a good couple, but they aren’t connected, not like we are.”
“We are aren’t we?” Brooke said in a distracted voice.
“We’ve always been. Sometimes I wonder why I refused to see it for so long.” He smiled and took her hand. “But no more Logan. I will never deny anything that we have again.”
“It’s all so confusing.” She sighed. “Can we lighten this up a bit? I just want to try and lose the mood I have.” She looked up hopefully.
“Of course we can.” Ridge smiled broadly at her. “In fact, I can think of just the thing to brighten your mood.”
“No sex.” She shook her head. “Hey! I know, come on, this way.” She started to drag him down the path.


“Do you have any idea why he wanted to see me?” Taylor asked Stephanie as they walked towards Eric’s office. “I hope this isn’t another plot to try and get me and Ridge back together. That is just not going to happen.”
“You’ve already made that quite clear.” Stephanie rolled her eyes.
“I’m sorry.” Taylor apologized. “I didn’t mean to snap, I’ve just had a rough day. Thomas is impossible, Steffie has a cold and Phoebe didn’t want to go to school. I just wish Ridge would come back and start accepting his responsibilities.”
“Maybe Eric’s heard from him.” Stephanie suggested.
“Perhaps.” Taylor reluctantly agreed. “But if he has, there better be a darn good reason why he hasn’t called his children.”
“I agree honey.” Stephanie said as she put her hand on the doorknob. “Just don’t shoot the messenger.”
Taylor gave her a smile and they walked inside. But the smile faded from her face when she saw the serious expression on Eric and Thorne’s faces. “What’s wrong? What did Ridge do now?” She asked.
“Taylor, Stephanie, sit down please. I have some disturbing news to tell you about.” Eric walked over to his wife and took her arm. “Please.”
“Eric what is with the dramatics. Just tell us what it is.” Stephanie demanded.
Taylor looked from Eric to Thorne. “Thorne? Something’s wrong isn’t it?”
“We don’t know okay?” He looked to his father for support. “But I think maybe there is.”
“Eric?” Stephanie looked at her husband.
“There’s no easy way to say this, so I’m going to just come out with it.” He told the women. “The boat that Ridge is on, it’s been reported missing.”


“It’s nice Logan, but we don’t have bathing suits.” Ridge said as he examined the waterfall that Brooke had just led him to.
“Bathing suits?” She frowned. “We don’t really need them do we? Come on.” She started to giggle as she removed her clothes.
“Logan?” Ridge’s eyes widened in shock.
“I’m not inviting you to an orgy Ridge, just for a swim. What do you think I had to do all this time? We swam and bathed and fished and we didn’t have many changes of clothing. I mean come on, you saw me when you first got here didn’t you?”
“You were um, naked. Well, almost naked.” He said with an uncharacteristic flush. “And him? Was he naked too?”
“No, I made him a suit out of palm leaves.” Brooke sarcastically answered. “Of course he was. Ridge we had to leave our pride on that plane. Now I don’t know about you but I’m hot and sweaty and I want a swim. Are you coming?” She pulled her shirt over her head, pulled off her shorts and ran naked into the water.
“Naked huh?” He whispered to himself. “Now this might just move things along.” With a wide grin Ridge removed his clothing and ran to the water to join Brooke.


“Where are you Princess?” Nick wondered aloud. He had checked the places that he knew Brooke went to be alone and she wasn’t there. “But you’re not alone are you? Hmmm. You wanted him to explore.” With a smile he looked up to the mountain peak. “Did you take him up there? Did you show him your bananas? He better not be showing you HIS banana.” He frowned. “Well, I guess I better give it a whirl. It’s getting late and dark and as good as you are at survival, you’re shitty at watching the time, it’ll be way past dusk before you realize it’s time to head back.” With a laugh and a lot of determination Nick started on the path up the mountain.


The swim had been long and refreshing and afterwards they had eaten some fruit and then found a place to nap in the sun. After about an hour Ridge had woken up to see Brooke looking up at him.
“Are you comfortable?” Ridge asked Brooke. He was sitting on the sand, leaning against a palm tree with Brooke in his arms. They were both gloriously naked and Ridge was amazed with her ease about it.
“Mmmmm yes.” She smiled and cuddled up closer. “The sun feels so good and the water was so nice. I didn’t realize how tired I was.”
“You didn’t sleep much last night. You fought it on the boat and God knows how much sleep you had in that shack.”
“I slept well there.” Brooke informed him and then blushed at the memory of the previous night. “I always do.” She said in a dreamy voice. Her thoughts were on Nick, and as forbidden as their love was, it was real and it was strong and just the thought of being with Nick made her happy.
“I guess I could get used to it here.” Ridge agreed. “That is as long as I had a way off and plenty of food and water. But the perks can’t be beat.” He smiled and let one of his hands slide up a bit until it brushed her breast. The effect was an instant hardening of her nipple, which was his goal.
“By perks I suppose you mean the nudity?” Brooke giggled. “You know Ridge, I don’t even think about it, it just seems so normal, so natural. I just don’t know how I’m going to get used to being dressed all the time when I get home. Maybe I’ll have to make my own private naked place.”
“That can be arranged.” Ridge laughed. “But not too private.” He gently stroked her breast with his palm. “I love you Logan, I love you so much.”
“Ridge, I don’t think that.” Brooke started.
“That’s the point Logan, don’t think, just do.” He pulled her closer and brought his mouth down to hers and let his body cover hers.


“I should have thought of the waterfall.” Nick said as he listened to the loud sound of the running water. “I bet she’s alone, thinking.”
He smiled and increased his pace, anxious to be with her, to talk to her, to kiss her and to tell her that they would find a way to make a life together. “I know it will be hard Princess, but we’re worth it and we have so much to give to each other.” He smiled as he remembered the way she lovingly touched her belly. “And our child. Our child.” He was about to call out to her when he felt like a knife had been driven into his heart. Brooke was there, she was on their beach, she was naked and beautiful and she was in Ridge’s arms, passionately kissing him. “No.” Nick moaned. He stepped back, almost tripping on his own feet. “No Brooke, please no.” He begged softly, but he knew that Perry and Carla had both been right all along, Brooke had chosen Ridge.


“We need to get help Eric.” Taylor said as she frantically looked from Eric, to Stephanie, to Thorne and back to Eric. “Their police are lax, very lax. We need to get someone going now, we need to help Ridge.”
“Taylor is right.” Stephanie said in a calm voice, a voice that might have fooled a stranger but her family knew her and they knew her calmness was just her fear taking over.
“I’ve already made calls.” Eric told them. “I got the detectives back and I’ve notified the Coast Guard.”
“Isn’t that out of their jurisdiction?” Thorne asked him.
“Yes, but I pulled some strings, they do have international fleets and they are looking out for them now. Unfortunately we have no idea where they are now. They do have a location of the last communication, but that could mean nothing.”
“I’ve been so angry at him, I’ve been so mad that he hasn’t called and he’s been missing.” Taylor started to cry and Thorne walked up to her and took her into his arms.
“It’ll be alright okay. Ridge is smart and I know he would have hired an experienced captain. We need to keep believing in them, we do.” He gave Eric a hopeful look.
“That’s right son, we have to keep our hopes up and believe. They could just be disabled, they will find them.” Eric didn’t really believe this, but he didn’t want to give up all hope either.
“Taylor, when did you last hear from Ridge?” Stephanie asked.
“I don’t know.” She said as she frantically tried to remember. “We’ve been fighting for so long and I think Ridge just felt he didn’t want to talk to me. Oh God, he has to be alright.”
“Dad, you can’t tell Bridget and Rick, they couldn’t handle this.” Thorne implored his father.
“What do you suggest I tell them?” Eric said in a sharp voice. “They’re both suspicious that he hasn’t called. We need to be a family and stick together. The only ones we shouldn’t tell right now are the children.”
“I’m not so sure Eric.” Stephanie interjected. “Bridget is a wreck and Deacon is already taking advantage of that. If he hears about this he’s going to swoop down on us all.”
“How can he not hear?” Eric asked her. “This is bound to get out and once the media gets hold of it it will be all over the place. Is THAT how you want Rick and Bridget to find out? I certainly don’t. And if we let them know we deplete Deacon of part of his power, Bridget will turn to us.”
“Look, I don’t mean to be insensitive.” Taylor announced. “But Bridget and Rick have had time to deal with their mother’s death. I know it’s hard, I know they are both still very upset, but my children are the ones who are missing their father right now! I think we should be a little more concerned about them!”
“We’re very concerned about them Taylor. You know that.” Stephanie walked over to Taylor and embraced her. “You have to know that honey.”
“It just seems that even with her gone, everything in this damn family is all about Brooke!” Taylor angrily let go of Stephanie and walked to the window. “If it wasn’t for Brooke, Ridge wouldn’t be missing in the first place!”
“I think everyone needs to calm down okay?” Thorne joined Taylor and took her hand in his. “Fighting isn’t going to bring Ridge home, neither is second guessing okay?”
“She’s stolen everything from me.” Taylor whined. “Even in death she keeps taking from me.”


Carla noticed the change in his demeanor the moment Nick returned to the boat. Something had happened. Did he fight with Brooke? Did she tell him it was over? Carla’s hopes were high while at the same time she hated seeing this sadness on Nick’s face. Glad that Perry was busy below working on the engine she approached her fiancé. “Nick, is something wrong? Didn’t you find them?”
“I don’t want to talk about it.” He said in a tense tone. Then he walked to the refrigerator and took out a can of beer. Carla watched as he opened it and took a long gulp.
“It’s hot out there.” She said, trying to preserve the conversation.
“Whatever.” He mumbled.
“Nick, don’t shrink away from me. You’ve always been able to talk to me. Please talk to me now.”
“When did we do all this talking Carla?” He asked in a sarcastic tone. “If you ask me, we barely communicated at all!”
“Now that is not fair and it’s not true either.” Carla did her best to hide her hurt. “If you want to brood, then brood, but sometimes things are better when we just get things out in the open.”
“You’re just being damn nosy.” He grumbled. “You want to know about Brooke and you’re not going to let up until I tell you are you?”
“I don’t give a damn about Brooke and if you don’t want to talk to me, suit yourself.” She turned away from him so that he couldn’t see the tears forming in her eyes. She was amazed herself at the changes she had gone through since Nick had been presumed dead. Maybe she had been cold, but that was no longer true. Carla Darvers now wore her heart on her sleeve and she didn’t like it at all. She couldn’t seem to help it though. She loved this man so badly; she had learned that in the hardest way possible.
Nick was mad, he was furious and he was hurt and disappointed. He hadn’t let himself really believe that Brooke would ever return to Ridge, his heart had told him differently and yet his head had known it all along. Brooke had spent many a night lamenting over her lost love and even in the end of their time alone she had been consumed with thoughts of Ridge, visions of Ridge, even to the point of hearing his voice calling out to her. He should have taken notice of it and realized how strong her feelings for the man still were, but he had believed in their own bond. “What bond?” He asked aloud. “I was never more than a diversion to her, a substitute.”
“It’s him isn’t it?” Carla asked Nick who had been unaware that he had even voiced his thoughts. “You saw them together?”
“You set me up.” He angrily spit at her.
“How could I have? I had no clue where they were or what they were doing. But I did warn you, I told you how much he loved her and how long they had loved each other. You just chose not to listen to me. I’m sorry she hurt you, but you knew it was going to happen.”
“Leave it alone Carla.” He growled. “I am not in the mood for your ‘I told you so’s’!”
“That’s not what I’m doing Nick, I’m trying to be supportive!” She argued. “And in case you’ve forgotten, I’m still wearing your ring so frankly I find this entire mess highly insulting.”
Nick turned to angrily face her when her words seemed to set in. She WAS his fiancée and he had been disrespecting her. “How did I let this all happen Carla? I’ve always been someone who held affections at a distance. God knows it took forever for me to let you in. Why did I let this all get so crazy and why was I so stupid not to see the writing on the wall?”
“The circumstances were highly unusual Nick.” She said softly. “I think it would have happened to just about anyone in your positions. Maybe you could look at it as a lesson learned and maybe somewhere down the line you can see it as a friendship gained. I know Brooke cares deeply about you, but she loves him and he loves her.”
“And I am supposed to just accept that and move on?” Nick asked her.
“It’s not like you have much of a choice.” She reminded him.
“But it’s so complicated.” He sadly answered.
“I’m here for you Nick, and I love you.” She said as she gently touched his arm.


“Ridge I can’t.” Brooke pulled herself free from the embrace.
“Of course you can.” He smiled. “And don’t ever try and pretend you weren’t into it, I wasn’t the only one kissing.”
“I was drawn in. It was history and emotions but that’s it Ridge. I can’t do this. I’m just so conflicted and there is so much to consider. Please just try and understand.”
“How can I understand when you won’t tell me anything?” The confused man answered.
“I will, but just not yet. Please Ridge, stop pressuring me.” She begged.
“It wasn’t that long ago when this was all you wanted. Logan you begged me to listen to you and to open my eyes and now when I do, you push me away.”
“It was a lifetime ago.” She said as she stood up. She brushed the sand from her body and reached down for her clothes. “Get dressed Ridge, it’s getting late and it will be dark soon. We need to get back to the boat.”
“You’re not coming back here tonight to sleep are you?” Ridge wondered.
“No. But I haven’t decided where I’m sleeping.”
“You’re sleeping with me!” He insisted.
“No, I don’t think that’s a good idea. I think I’ll sleep on deck, just stop pushing me Ridge, I’m serious.”
“You know you love me Logan.”
“It’s not that simple!” She shot back at him.
“It could be.” Ridge said softly as he stood up too. “It can be Logan, just let it happen.”


“She still loves him.” Stephanie proudly announced to Eric. “I knew it! I knew it! And when he comes home.”
“If he comes home.” Eric stopped her mid sentence.
“Of course he’s coming home. I refuse to believe otherwise.” Stephanie stubbornly told him.
“I pray that you’re right.” Eric took her hand and gave it a squeeze. “This family can’t take much more tragedy.”
“And we won’t have to.” She answered. “Anyway, you agree with me don’t you?”
“About Taylor? I’m not sure. I know she loves him, but I’m not sure if it’s the way you want her to love him.”
“The way that I want her to?” She emphasized the “I”.
“Alright, we. But that doesn’t change facts. They are divorced.”
“So were we.” Stephanie gave him a smile. “I wonder if they’ll want a small wedding or a big celebration.”
“You’re getting ahead of yourself.” Eric couldn’t help but laugh.
“They’ll thank me.” She laughed back. “Oh Eric, he has to be alright.” Her jovial mood suddenly dampened and a look of sadness and fear covered her face.
“We’ll just have to keep praying won’t we?”


Nick looked up at the setting sun, then the fire and then at Ridge and Brooke. He did nothing to hide his anger or annoyance. “About time you showed up.” He kicked a log into the fire. “We weren’t going to wait much longer.”
“I’m sorry.” Brooke answered for the twosome. “We did some exploring and time got away from us.”
“Exploring huh?” Nick mumbled. “I can just imagine what you were exploring.”
“You got a problem with that?” Ridge asked him.
“Your lives.” Nick said without even looking at the man.
“Aren’t you going to ask us what we found?” Brooke asked Nick, trying to lighten his obvious bad mood.
“Sorry Princess, I’ve been here a long time, I doubt there’s much I haven’t already seen and I have the same equipment that Clark Kent here has.”
“Nick!” Carla turned red at her fiancé’s rudeness.
“He almost doesn’t deserve to know now does he Ridge?” Brooke smiled at her companion.
“I don’t think so Logan.”
“Look, if you have something to say, just say it.” Nick looked up angrily at Brooke.
“I, I. Never mind.” She turned away from him and looked at Carla. “I’m sorry we were late. Do I have time to change my shirt, this one is a little sweaty.”
“And sandy.” Ridge added with a laugh. Nick looked up and gave him a stare that almost could have killed.
“Sure.” Carla answered Brooke. “I made a beef stew, it’ll just keep simmering.”
“Bring back some more beer.” Nick told Brooke and Ridge as they started walking towards the boat.
“Nick, you don’t need any mo,” Carla started, but when he shot her the same look she stopped.
“We won’t be long.” Ridge took Brooke’s hand and they walked on. Once they were out of hearing range he turned to Brooke. “What’s with him? Is he always like that?”
“Maybe they had a fight.” Brooke said without much emotion. Memories of seeing Carla and Nick in each other’s arms kissing earlier flashed before her eyes.
“He didn’t really seem mad at her, he was madder at us.” Ridge shrugged. “I guess he’s moody.”
“I guess.” She noncommittally answered.
“I don’t think there’s trouble in Paradise.” Ridge looked back to see Carla move to sit next to Nick. “I think they’re just fine.”
“Yeah.” Brooke looked and answered with a deep sense of regret.


“What was that all about?” Carla asked Nick.
“I don’t like him.”
“Nick, that’s not fair. Ridge is a good man.”
“Whatever.”
“She loves him, you could see it in her eyes.” Carla commented.
“He can have her.” He growled back.
“So you really mean that? Are you letting her go?” Carla wondered.
“I never had her to let go of. Besides, I’m an engaged man aren’t I?” He looked into Carla’s eyes.
“You mean you still want to marry me?” She asked hopefully.
“If you want me.” He said.
“I want you very much.” She stroked his arm lovingly.
“Okay, then when we get home, we’ll get married. No waiting. No big ceremony, just you and me. We can drive to Maryland or wherever the hell it is you can get it done quickly.”
Carla could have let the ‘get it done quickly’ comment get to her, but she loved him and she truly believed that he loved her and that once they were back home things would get back to normal. And while before Nick had disappeared she had wanted a large, impressive wedding with all the proper guests, now all she wanted was to be his wife. She smiled at him and kissed him. “There is nothing it the world I want more.”


Brooke was uncomfortable in the small shower stall of the boat, but she wanted to wash the sand away. She also wanted to wash all the memories away, those of Nick and Carla as well as herself and Ridge. She wanted a clear mind, so she could make decisions, decisions that would affect everyone’s futures. She was about to reach to turn the water off when strong arms surrounded her naked body and lips descended on her neck. Brooke jumped and turned, hoping against hope that it was Nick, but knowing in her heart that it was Ridge. When she turned his mouth captured hers and with a sigh she let herself give in to the kiss for just a few seconds. Then she stepped back and gave him a smirk. “Ridge you are so bad.”
“Uh huh, just look at how bad I am.” He said as his eyes went down his own body. Brooke gasped at his erection, both turned on and horrified.
“Get out of here!” She demanded.
“No one will know, we’re alone. Come on Logan, make love with me, commit to me and I promise you I will make you the happiest woman on earth.” And with that he pulled her back into his arms and kissed her deeply once more.


“Where the hell are they now?” Nick looked up at the dark sky with disgust.
“Mebbe dey get busy.” Perry suggested with a laugh. “I tink we should just eat, dey can have some wen dey ready. It keep hot on de fire.”
“I need beer.” Nick grumbled loudly.
“Ask and you shall receive.” Ridge’s cheerful voice said as he and Brooke came into view. “Sorry we took so long, we were, uh, detained.” He grinned and winked at Brooke who blushed brightly.
“Ridge!” She looked at Nick and Carla. “Don’t listen to a word he says. I was just slow.”
Ridge handed Nick a six pack and sat down on the sand. “So shall we compare days?”
“Some of us accomplished something today.” Nick said with sarcasm. “Something important.” He added before Ridge could made a snide remark about lovemaking. Nick was livid. He looked at Brooke and shook his head in disapproval.
“What?” Brooke asked.
“Nothing, nothing at all.” He told her as he opened a can.
“Well Nick, I just want you to know that you were right.” She smiled.
Nick immediately frowned at her. Right? About what? He looked at her in confusion. “About what?” he finally voiced his question.
“The wild boar.” She giggled. “We saw one, or it. You were right, there is one here and we saw it.”
“We did Nick.” Ridge reached for Brooke’s hand and pulled her down to sit next to him. “It was a pretty big sucker too. I doubt you could have killed it with your little spear so it’s probably a pretty good thing you didn’t run into him.”
“You’d be surprised at just what I can do Forrester.” Nick’s eyes turned to slits as he stared down the man.
“Maybe I would be.” Ridge agreed. “So what did you do today to occupy yourself?” He asked Nick.
“Oh nothing as thrilling as you Ridge.” Nick replied. “No hiking or fruit picking or looking for pigs. We just halfway rebuilt an engine and oh yeah, we buried a man.”
“What?” Brooke gasped. “Nick? Who? They boyfriend? The captain?”
Nick looked at Perry, questioning what to say.
“It be a stranger Miss.” Perry answered. “And because of dis, I tink it best we work harder and git off dis island as soon as possible.”


“Hey Sweatpea, you lookin’ for me?” Deacon asked as he grabbed Tatiana by the arm. “Come into my office.” He said, trying to lead her there.
“No Deacon, I was looking for Thorne. We had an appointment but he is no where to be seen.” She frowned at him. “Is he how you say blowing me off?” She asked.
“Nah. Some family crisis I think. Taylor came in with Stephmonster and they all headed to Eric’s office, I know Thorne was with him.”
“Family crisis?” Her ears perked up. “And Taylor was there too?”
“Do you know her?” Deacon asked.
“I know OF her.” She explained. “So what do you think is wrong?”
“Maybe something about Brooke’s will? I dunno.” Deacon sighed. “Or maybe more problems with the Prodigal Child.” He laughed.
“Who?” She wondered.
“Ridge. Mr. My Shit Don’t Stink, ya know? He took off trying to find Brooke’s body and bring it back for a burial. I mean it’s a noble thing and all but with the obsession he and Brooke had for each other Taylor didn’t take well to it. She’s his wife, or WAS his wife.”
“Was?”
“Yeah, they divorced while he was away, I mean he’s still away. So Mrs. My Shit Don’t Stink may still be peeved and all. Probably crying to her former Mommy in law.” He laughed and gave her the elbow.
“Well should I leave? Do you think he will come out?” She asked Deacon.
“Sure.” He told her. “Hang with me till he does.”
“Don’t you have work to do? Do you ever work?” She turned up her nose.
“I’m married to a Forrester. I don’t have to work, I just have to sit in this fancy office and collect the money.”
“You’re quite a character Deacon. Just be careful, you never know what will happen down the line. Make sure you have your allegiances in the right place.” She warned him.
“Ah the cryptic lady returns.” He laughed. “So Tatiana, we never did come up with what I got out of this deal, hmmm?”
“Are you expecting me to lay down and spread my legs for you?” She scoffed at him. “You Americans think so small.”
“I never said a word, and believe me Sweetpea, I think BIG. If you end up doing the nasty with Old Deac, that’ll just be gravy, if ya know what I mean.”
“Believe me, you would be the one counting his lucky stars.” She laughed softly.
“Shhhhh. Listen, it’s Taybore and the Clipboard boy. Sounds like she’s crying.” Deacon walked Tatiana to the door and they stood behind it so they could listen without being heard.
“He’s dead, I know he is.” Taylor sobbed. “And I never had a chance to tell him how much he meant to me. I blew it Thorne, I let her take him from me again and I didn’t even fight for him.”
“We have to believe he’s alive Taylor okay?” Thorne put his arms around her. “You need to calm down and take a deep breath.”
“I don’t even know what I’m thinking anymore Thorne. We’re divorced, we said so many ugly things to each other, but I never wanted this, I never wanted him dead.”
“Come on to my office, I’ll get you something to drink, you can relax a bit and I’ll take you home.”
Deacon and Tatiana looked at each other as the sounds of their footsteps faded away.
“Dead? Ridge is dead?” Deacon asked.
“I never had a chance to meet him, I never got the chance to tell him.” Tatiana seemed lost in her own thoughts, but Deacon didn’t notice because the cash registers were clinging loudly in his own head.
“Bridget is going to be really bad with this news, looks like Old Deac is going to be able to really clean up. Anything, anything I ask for they’re gonna give it to me, as long as I keep their little princess happy. Life is good.” He laughed. “Oh man, life is so good.”


Ridge closed the door to the cabin and sat down next to Brooke on the bed. “Well that was uncomfortable. Do you think it was the drinking? Carla never mentioned that he had a drinking problem but it sure looked that way didn’t it Logan?”
“He doesn’t have a drinking problem.” Brooke said, defending Nick.
“Well he was short and snappy with me and with you too. What do you make of it?” He pulled his shirt over his head.
“I don’t know, I guess he was upset. Can we not talk about Nick please?”
“Sure.” He smiled. “Are you going to get undressed?”
“Not with you here.” She told him.
“After today Logan?” He gave her a look.
“Swimming or working naked is different than sleeping naked and undressing in front of you.”
“That’s NOT what I meant Logan.” Ridge grabbed her hand and pulled her to him. “You know what I am talking about.”
“I don’t want to talk about that Ridge. Now please, just humor me.”
“Fine. I’ll wait up on deck. Hey, how about some wine? Can I get you a glass?”
“Are you trying to get me drunk?” She asked.
“I’m trying to help you relax.”
“Thanks, but no wine for me.”
“Well is there anything I can get you?” He asked.
“Seriously?” She squinted.
“I’d do anything for you Logan.” He smiled.
“I’d really like an orange.” She smiled back.
“Then you shall have an orange.” He gave her a quick kiss. “Take your time, I want to talk to Perry before we go to bed anyway.”
Brooke waited until he was gone before she opened the chest and pulled out a nightgown. She held it against her and softly started to sob. “Oh Nick, what happened to us?” She walked to the bed and sat down, just staring off into space.


“Hey Perry.” Ridge said in greeting to the captain.
“Hello Ridge. I tought you wen to bed.”
“We were going to, but Logan wanted an orange. I went to the supplies and couldn’t find one. You know where you put them?”
“None left. Da ladies din bring any back. We still got apples.”
“She wants an orange.” Ridge smiled. “I guess I can walk down to the grove and pick her one.”
“It dark an Ridge, we don know if dos drug dealers are aroun. I don tink it’s a good idea for you to go alone. I can walk wid you.”
“And leave the girls alone? I don’t think so.” Ridge shook his head.
“Dey not alone, Nick be here.”
“Nick.” Ridge said with a touch of annoyance. “He doesn’t seem to be of much use, and he had a few too many beers tonight. I have to wonder if he does that every night.”
“Nick be of a lot of use to me Ridge, and nah, he no drinker. He only had tree beers, I seen you drink a whole lot more den dat.” Perry laughed.
“I hate leaving Brooke with him.” Ridge protested.
“She be alone wid him for months Ridge, he take good care of her. You wan get your lady an orange, we go togeder or no one goes.”
“Let’s go.” Ridge agreed.
“I tought you see reason.” Perry laughed. “Come on. Let get da show on da road.”


Brooke wiped her eyes and walked to the door. Ridge had been gone a while, she imagined that he and Perry were having a conversation about the body they had found. Brooke shivered as fear swept through her. She was glad that they’d soon be going home. Glad about that except for one thing. “I’ll never see you again Nick.” She hugged herself as tears started to well up again. “I guess you loved her more than I thought.” She sighed.


“I guess she loved him more than I thought.” Nick sat on the bed and sighed.
“I know you won’t believe me, but I am sorry Nick. I hate seeing you in pain.” Carla gave him a hug. “I’ll do my best to help you forget her. I do love you Nick.”
“I know you will.” He let out a deep breath. “Thanks for being so patient with me.”
“I do understand.” She promised.
“I know you expected me to be back to normal and all, but I just, well maybe once we’re home. I just can’t even think about performing with her in the next room.” He looked towards the door with such longing that Carla felt pangs on anger returning. “If only.” He sighed again.
“Nick?” Carla asked. “Will you do me a favor?”
“What?” He replied with disinterest.
“If it’s too much trouble, forget it.”
“Just tell me what you want Carla.”
“Brooke never brought back the fruit and I’m dying for something fresh. Would you mind going back to the shelter for some? It’s all picked and in that suitcase.”
“Fruit? Can’t it wait till morning?” Nick grouched.
“I really wanted it, but if it’s too much trouble.” Carla gave him her saddest expression.
“No, it’s okay. I’ll got get some, I’m not tired anyway.”
“Thank you Nick.” She smiled. “Do you want me to come with you?” She asked, knowing full well that he would say no.
“No, it’s late and dark and you’d slow me down. You stay here. I won’t be too long.”
“Take your time.” She smiled. “And thank you.”
“See you in a bit.” He kissed her gently on the lips and left. Carla tiptoed out and watched as he left the boat. Once he was gone she went back into the cabin and shut the door.
“Sorry Nick, but I want her to know you’re off limits and this is the only thing that’s going to do it.” She turned off the light and lit a soft candle, then she sprayed perfume close to the door. “Meg Ryan, you got nothing on Carla.” She laughed. “Okay Brookie, let’s see how you like Nick now.”


Brooke was getting tired and feeling guilty for sending Ridge out. She was trying to stay awake but her eyelids kept dropping. Suddenly she heard sounds that broke through and changed everything for her. Carla was moaning in passion, calling out Nick’s name and the bed was creaking as it bumped into the wall again and again. “Nooooooooo.” Brooke moaned deeply. “Oh Nick, nooooooo. It’s really over, you don’t love me.” She sobbed.

 

 

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