Chapter 22

 

 

It had been over three weeks since that night and nothing had been the same since.  Bridget gnawed on her pencil as she tried to concentrate on her studies, but it seemed to be a fruitless task.  She had come to Forrester to use the computer, her laptop wasn’t working and she had brought it in for service.  She was using her father’s office, trying her best to study for her test but her mind was elsewhere, in fact it was churning like an old out of control washing machine.  She pushed the book aside and ran her fingers through her hair, remembering the night that seemed to be the catalyst for everything that was wrong in her life today.  She had been having a fun time watching movies with her husband, brother and his wife.  Everything had been calm and quiet until that man had come into the house carrying her mother like some kind of a trophy, both of them laughing like this was normal behavior.  She remembered she had shouted at Brooke for her antics and questioned why she was with that man and where was her husband Ridge.  Brooke had been so angry, she had immediately ordered Bridget into the kitchen for a one on one, leaving Deacon, Nick, Rick and Amber wondering what was going on.  Bridget had held her course, Brooke shouldn’t be alone with another man while her husband was nowhere to be seen.  She had shouted at Brooke that she was going to ruin everything, that Ridge had forgiven her the affair on the island but that Brooke was pushing it now, spending any time at all with this man.  She had been so sure that she could get to her, make her mother open her eyes to the mistakes she was making but instead Brooke had shouted back at her.  To Bridget’s shock Brooke informed her that she and Ridge had not gotten married and that she had no intentions whatsoever of marrying him.  She had gone on to ream her out for the things she had said to Nick in the office earlier in the day.  The two women had tearfully stared down each other until Brooke had suddenly taken Bridget into her arms and held her, telling her how much she loved her.  Bridget had been confused but she believed then and still believed that the one who was really confused was Brooke.  She remembered the conversation. 

 

‘Mother.’ Bridget had said.  ‘You’ve been through so much, it was so frightening and this man was there to help you, he was the only thing you had to hold onto, but you’re mistaking that gratitude for love.  You know love, you have love for Ridge, you’ve loved him all your life and now finally everything is happening just like you wanted it to.’

‘Wanted.’  Brooke had smiled sweetly.  ‘That’s the key word honey, wanted.  For so long all that I wanted was Ridge, I let that blind me to every other opportunity in my life.  Not just romantic ones either.  I missed out on so much of your life and your brother’s life, I missed things in work, I threw away my own career, all for a dream.’

‘But you can have that dream now Mom.’ Bridget had insisted.  ‘He loves you, he really loves you.’

‘And I love him.  But not the same way anymore.’ Brooke had answered.  ‘Bridget, I know that Ridge loves me, but everything is different now.  I’ve changed, I’ve opened my eyes and more importantly I’ve opened my heart, and when I did Nick came in.  I love him Bridget and I think that maybe we can have a life together.’

‘You’re just scared.’  Bridget had pressed.  ‘You’re scared that Ridge is going to let you down, but he won’t Mom.  I was there the whole time you were gone.  Ridge went crazy with grief.  He went all over the world looking for you.  Doesn’t that prove anything?’

‘Are you asking me to settle Bridget?  Are you telling me that because he did this for me I owe him my life, my body, my soul?’

Bridget remembered looking at her like she had two heads.  This woman looked like her mother, but the things coming from her mouth made no sense.  ‘He is your life Mother, your life, your soul, you’ve always told us that.  You told him that.  Mom, he gave up Taylor for you!’

‘I never asked him to.’  Brooke had answered, but when she saw the look on Bridget’s face she had to laugh.  ‘Alright, I did, but not this time Bridget.  This time I told him that everything was different.  I told him that I couldn’t give him what he wanted.’

‘But that was what you wanted too Mom.’

‘Not now.’  Brooke shook her head.  She took both of Bridget’s hands into her own.  ‘My needs have changed, my wants have changed and what I want and need is Nick and what I also want is for you to stop lying Bridget.’

‘Lying?’ Bridget had gasped.  ‘I’m not lying! You love Ridge!’

‘The things you told Nick were lies, lies meant to hurt him and to chase him away.’

‘I didn’t lie, he misunderstood.’  Bridget had answered her, first indignantly but then she looked at her with a sheepish expression.

‘He understood exactly the way you wanted him to Bridget.  And that was wrong and hurtful.  But it didn’t work because Nick is a stronger man than you expected.  He was hurt, but unlike other men that I’ve loved he didn’t just assume the worst, he didn’t just run off into the arms of some other woman, he remembered just what we have, what we are, and he didn’t believe it.  He needed to hear it from me.  You know Bridget, maybe you did me a favor.  Maybe you proved to me beyond the shadow of a doubt, that Nick loves me more than any other man ever has or ever could.  He came back, he fought for me, no one else ever did that.’

‘Ridge is doing that right now Mother!’

‘But it’s too late honey, it’s not what I want anymore, but he knows that.  You’re going to have to have faith in me Bridget, faith that I know what I’m doing, about everything.’

 

Bridget sighed as she came back to the present.  As odd and unsettling that conversation had been, everything else now seemed even worse.  She and her mother were still not seeing eye to eye, Ridge was distant with everyone and Brooke was spending every single evening with Nick.  Things were different with Deacon now too.  They hadn’t made love in weeks.  Every time she tried to get him to respond to her he claimed he was too tired or too busy or too just about anything.  She wished she had someone to talk to about it, but things were strained with her mother and there was no one else she wanted to turn to.  Well one person came to mind, but she knew that he would only think of her as a stupid child.  Not only that, but she couldn’t betray Deacon by turning to a man, even if he was only a friend.  “Why Deacon?”  She sighed again and frowned.  It seemed that her mother saw more of her husband than she did.  Brooke had taken Deacon under her wing and while Bridget did appreciate that she was being so supportive of him, she was keeping him very busy, he worked day and night.  Brooke and Deacon were putting in some very long hours.   That is when she wasn’t with Nick, which she always was.  They were dating like a couple of teenagers.  Bridget frowned again thinking about it.  It just seemed strange to see her mother going to dinner and movies and ball games and concerts with this man.  She and Ridge never seemed to need to keep busy all the time.  Just being together was enough.  All Brooke had wanted was to be in Ridge’s arms, being loved by him.  Bridget decided that she would remind Brooke of this fact. Maybe that would get through to her; she shouldn’t have to try so hard.  She never had to with Ridge.  This Nick person wasn’t right for her mother and all the time he spent trying to convince Brooke that he was just made Bridget more sure that he wasn’t.  She knew that, Ridge knew that and in her heart her mother knew it too.  “I need to stop thinking about all this and get back to work.” Bridget told herself as she pulled her book back and opened it to the chapter that she was going to be tested on.  “I’ll talk to them both later, but for now I need to study.”

 

 

“Brooke, I have the two chicks, errr women.” He corrected himself when he saw Brooke’s frown.  “Anyway, the two that you and I both liked are coming in tomorrow.  I tried for today but the young one is in the middle of a shoot in Miami, but she will be here tomorrow.”

“And the other?” Brooke asked with a raised eyebrow just daring him to call her old. 

“I know, she’s not old, just older.”  He smiled.  “Old enough to be my mother.”  He added quickly with a laugh. 

“Enough.”  Brooke had to smile.  She was enjoying working with Deacon more than she ever imagined she could.  He was funny and smart and he had a knack for the business like no one else she had seen come aboard before.  The only thing that spoiled it was the uncertainty about his marriage and his decisions about his marriage to Bridget.   “She’s coming tomorrow too?”

“Yeah, she had an AARP meeting but she cancelled.” He teased. 

“You are so bad Deacon.”  Brooke giggled.  “I thought you understood my ideas for this campaign.”

“I do, and I really do like it and to be perfectly honest, I like the older model the best.  She’s classy and sexy and she seems to have something that most of the young kids we’ve seen just have no clue about.”

“You’re so right.” Brooke agreed.  “She has that quality that you can’t buy or imitate.”

“I guess there’s some truth to the getting better with age crap.”  He answered.  “Cause the women we’ve found have something very special.  Maybe it’s time we all started to appreciate the things that come from a little living and experience.  They all seem to have so much going for them and they’re deep, and interesting.”

“Is this just models or are you starting to rethink some of your choices?”  She asked him.

“I was talking models.  This woman oozes class and sophistication, something I just don’t see in the young kids.”

“I agree.” Brooke said with a smile.  She opened her drawer and pulled out a folder.  She handed it to Deacon.  “I’d like you to look at the pictures in here.  I want your honest opinion; I don’t want to hear what you THINK I want to hear.”

“I don’t do that.”  He said emphatically.  “Not about anything.”  He looked her straight in the eye. 

“What does that mean?”  She asked.  “Have you made a decision about Bridget?  About your marriage?”

“Yeah.” He put down the folder and sat down.  “And I’m not sure you’re going to like it.”

 

 

Ridge adjusted the straps on the gown Tatiana was wearing and stood back.  “How does it feel?”  He asked her.  “You seem a little stiff.”

“It’s scratchy here.”  She gestured to the bottom of her breasts.  “It is very beautiful but it feels uncomfortable.  If I owned this dress I would probably find myself not wearing it for that reason alone.”

“Hmmmm.”  Ridge frowned and scratched his chin.  He reached and felt the material, also enjoying a sniff of her perfume and a touch of her firm, young breasts.  “Okay, put on the gold one, I’ll have them rework it.”

“You must not just take my word, I could be wrong.”  She said as she reached to unzip the gown.

“You could be, but I doubt it.  I could feel how you might find it rough, and it was just from the outside.  You have a good feel for this and I trust your instincts.”  He walked behind her and moved her hand away to unzip it himself.  “Let me.”  He said with a smile. 

Things had been uncomfortable for a couple of days after their sexual encounter.  Ridge had been embarrassed by his impulsiveness.  He didn’t know how she had felt about any of it and he just didn’t know how to ask.  But finally he had put his discomfort aside and taken her aside to talk.  They both admitted their mutual attraction and Tatiana had assured him that she had been the one who had made the initial move.  She also explained that she understood that he had been under a lot of pressure and that she expected nothing more from him, but had added that if he was interested, he should let her know.  Ridge had been very tempted, but he knew that it could be a bad move to get involved not just with a model but with one so young.  He also knew that his heart was torn.  While his body wanted to find comfort in Tatiana, his heart was pulling him in two directions as it had often done.  He wondered if he’d ever get either of them out of his system.  He loved them both.  Brooke and Taylor were so very different but both so very wonderful.  He walked back to his desk while Tatiana changed.  The photo of Taylor and the children brought a smile to his face.  He was happy being back in their lives.  He knew that Taylor wanted their marriage back, but he wasn’t ready for that and he was trying hard not to lead her on.  He needed to be over Brooke, at least to the point of wanting a marriage with her, before he would be able to totally commit to Taylor again.  But what they had was good.  They were starting to learn to appreciate each other again.  He loved the family time and he did want more.  “Maybe it’s time.”  He said to himself. 

“Time?” Tatiana asked with a frown.  She walked over to him, wearing the gold gown.  “Shall I take this off?”

“Sorry, I was distracted.  No, let’s get back to work.”  He got up and walked over to her.  “I hope this one feels more comfortable.”  He smiled, back to business again.

 

 

Nick hung up the phone and walked out of his office to the reception area.  “Olivia, is Cindy in her office?” He asked the receptionist. 

“No Mr. Parker, she and Mr. Scott had a meeting with a Ms. Donaldson and then they’re going to check the Morton properties.”  She replied. 

“And Kelly?” He asked. 

“Ms. Parsons is on a conference call with New York.”  She reminded him.

“Okay thanks Olivia.  If Cindy or Ethan call in tell them I want to talk to them.”  He looked at his watch.  “I was hoping to see them before the call with Prince Rasheed, damn.” 

“Would you like me to see if I can reschedule it?” Olivia asked him.

“No, no, that won’t be necessary.”  He turned to go back into his office but turned around.  “Has Ms. Logan called?”  He asked.

“Not since the two calls this morning.”  She laughed. 

“Well, I was stuck on a few calls and I, never mind.”  He laughed.  “If you would could you get me the files on the Romero merger?”

“Of course, I’ll bring them right in.”  She said with a friendly smile.  “Can I order you lunch?”

“No thanks, I’m going to meet Brooke.”  He winked and went into his office.  He sat down and immersed himself in a file.  He was busy at work when he heard someone come in.  “Just put it down Olivia.”  He said without looking up.

“Still working on Romero I see.”  The female voice broke through his concentration.  He looked up and grinned. 

“Carla!”  He got up and walked to the other side of the desk and took her into his arms and hugged her tightly.  “God I’ve missed you.”

“I’ve missed you too Nick.”  She hugged him back.  They awkwardly let go of each other and Carla handed him the folder.  “I guess you need this.”

“Yeah.”  He looked at it and threw it down on the desk.  “You really look good.”

“Liar.”  She smiled.  “I know I look terrible, but I have to say that you really look great, you look happy.  You are happy aren’t you?”

“Very.” He took her hand and squeezed it.  “What are you doing here Carla?  I thought you were tied up in Chicago.”

“It didn’t work out.”  She said with a scoff.  “You got a few minutes?”

“For you? Always.”  He walked over and shut the door.  “What happened?”  He asked.

“I worked my ass off Nick.  I gave him my sweat and blood and heart and soul and what does he do?  He turns around and gives the position to Charles Garrick.  Dan screwed me big time.”

“Shit.” Nick muttered.  “I can’t believe that.”

“Well believe it.”  She sighed.

“So what did you do?  Did you talk to him?”

“Oh yeah I talked to him.  I talked till I was blue in the face.  Seems this was his plan all along.  I train the asshole to steal my job.”

“That sucks.” Nick shook his head.  “So where does that leave you?” He asked.

“He told me that my job in New York was still open for me but I just.”  She shook her head.  “I can’t work there anymore Nick.”

“Did you quit?” He asked.

“I told him that I needed some time off.  I know it’s crazy after all the time I took looking for you but I just couldn’t go back there with my tail between my legs.  I’m so angry Nick.”

“There’s always a place for you here Carla.” He looked her deeply in the eyes.

“I don’t think that’s a good idea anymore.  I probably shouldn’t have even come but I just needed a friend and I just couldn’t think of anyone but, oh damn it!”  She was angry as the tears started.  She hated being weak. “Damn it Nick, I don’t want you to see me like this.”

“After all we’ve been through together.”  He held onto her hands.  “If we can’t be ourselves with each other I don’t know who we can be with?  I think we’re qualified to share each other’s tears as well as our good times.”  She looked up at him and smiled.  “I really could use you Carla.  Why don’t you stay awhile and if you aren’t happy then you can rethink New York or make another decision.”

“The jerk even suggested it, thought I could help you.  I think he doesn’t know what to do now that he’s screwed me.” 

“It doesn’t sound like Dan.”  Nick frowned.

“I agree, I think he’s having some personal problems and I got in the way.”

“Highly unprofessional.” Nick commented. 

“You want my honest opinion?” She asked.

“Sure.”

“I think he and Claudia are having trouble.  Claudia hired me before she left and I think this was Dan’s way of showing her.  Now he’s feeling guilty and trying to make it up but I’m too angry.”

“Then work here, I could really use you.”

“Nick I just don’t know.  Things aren’t what they used to be, it could be awkward.”

“I think we’re both adults who care very much about each other and we’re both pros.  I won’t force you, I won’t beg, but I’d really like you to give it a try.  Will you at least think about it?”

Carla walked to the window and looked out.  “Is it always this smoggy?”  She asked him.

“No, usually worse.”  He smiled.

“But it is a good place to start over.”  She walked back to the desk and picked up a small stack of photographs.  Brooke and Nick, Brooke alone, Nick alone, they were smiling in all of them, all at different places, always looking like they really belonged together.  “She’s over him?  Really over him?”  She looked up at Nick.

“She’s always going to care about him.”  He had to admit the truth.  “Sometimes I worry, sometimes she has a faraway look in her eyes, but I think it’s just memories.”

“I can tell that she really loves you.  It shows in these photos.”  She picked up one of them together.  “You’re both glowing.  Are you living with her?”

“Next subject.”  Nick said quickly.

“What is that about?”  She crinkled her nose.

“We’re getting to know each other.” His voice had a hint of sarcasm. 

“So she’s not ready to commit to a marriage or living with you yet, well maybe its best, you’ve both just gotten out of long term things.  But you seem to be doing a lot together so that’s good.”

“It is, but I’m wanting more.  I’m ready to get married, I want to make that child we thought we had, I want it all and her taking it slow is nice in it’s way, but it’s also frustrating.  I love her so much Carla.”

“Then you need to work with her, work out a pace that’s good for both of you.” She advised him.  “She’s a little gun shy, things with Ridge weren’t exactly the fairytale she thought.”

“You’re right, it’s just that I’ve never felt this way about anyone befo.”  He stopped and looked embarrassed.  “I’m sorry, that was pretty shitty of me to say that.”

“I know we didn’t have the world’s great love story.”  She admitted.  “But what we had wasn’t bad either.  We wouldn’t have been unhappy, even if we weren’t exactly.”  Now it was her turn to stop.  “You know, this is the reason that this isn’t a good idea.”

“We knew our first time talking again was going to be weird.  But nothing we can’t get past.  Please tell me you’ll at least think about it.”

“I will, I think it might be a good idea, but I have a few reservations.”

“Speaking of reservations, would you like to have lunch with us today?  Me and Brooke I mean.”

“You don’t need a third wheel.” 

“It’s just lunch.  I know Brooke would like to see you.”

“Oh yeah right.”  She laughed.  “Nick, we weren’t exactly pals you know.”

“But you can be now.  Please?  I want my two best girls to try and get along.”

“Call her, ask her and Nick, listen to her, if she sounds like she is only doing it because she thinks she has to, then we won’t.  If you can say she honestly is open to it, well then I am too.”

“She will be.” He promised. 

“It isn’t going to be easy for either of us, but if I really do want to give this working thing a try I am going to have to get used to the fact that she is with you now.  I guess lunch is one of the easiest ways for us to try.”

“Don’t make it sound like torture, you and Brooke have a lot in common.”

“The only thing we have in common is you.” Carla answered.

“Not true.” Nick argued.  “You’re both smart, beautiful businesswomen.”

“She’s all about fashion. Sorry Nick, but I don’t think Malibu Barbie and I really do have anything in common.  I went to school and I worked my ass off to get where I am, she just fluttered her eyelashes and expected the world to be handed to her, and like it happens with all blonde cheerleaders, it was.”

“That’s nasty Carla.  And completely untrue.  You really don’t know anything about her.  She’s nothing like you’re imagining, but you already know that.  Your problem isn’t with her, it’s with me and I had hoped we had gotten past that, at least a little bit.”

“Hmmmm.”  She ignored the last part of his plea.  “She’s blonde and beautiful, she’s sexy and rich.  She has men falling at her feet all the time and she doesn’t even appreciate it.  She’s everything I’m not. Malibu Barbie versus Mrs. Beasley, I never stood a chance.”

“Mrs. Beasley my ass.  You’re beautiful and sexy too Carla.  If I hadn’t kept them from you men would have been falling at your feet too and I’m sure they will be now and Brooke doesn’t appreciate men at her feet when she’s not interested, I’m sure she likes me being there.”  He laughed. “And I really don’t like the Malibu Barbie shit Carla.  I didn’t like it on the island, and I don’t like it now.  You’re above that.”

“The woman got her position by marrying a sugar daddy Nick! And he happened to be the father of the man she supposedly loved.  She didn’t earn her position, she didn’t work for it at all, unless you consider working on her back a job.” 

“Whoa!”  Nick shouted.  “You are so wrong.”

“Enlighten me.”  She answered.  “But believe me Nick, I did a lot of reading up on her when you were gone and I probably know more about her than you do.”

“You read gossip columns and trash talk and you’re going to believe that over me and over Brooke?  Carla what’s going on?”

“Nothing, nothing.”  She waved him off.  “Call it my bitterness.  I know we were over, I know it was more because of the fact that we never were right than about her but it still hurts and I have my pride Nick and you just seem to forget that!  You seem to diminish everything that we ever were for her so yes, yes I resent her!  And you know what else? Sometimes I get so angry at you that I could just grab something and throw it at you!”

“But why are you stooping to insult her and believe trash when you know, you know deep down it’s not true?”

“See! See!  She’s not even here and you’re defending her and just pushing us aside!  This won’t work Nick.  I was wrong to come here!”  She grabbed her purse and started for the door but Nick grabbed her arm.

“Wait.  Carla you’re right but you’re wrong too.  I’ve been insensitive to you but I’m trying to make up for that.  I do love you and you’re my best friend.  I need you in my life but you’re not being fair to Brooke and you don’t know her.  I really think you would like her if you did.  But what I really need to know, without sounding a total vain asshole, is it me Carla?  Do you still want to be with me?”

 

 

Brooke looked up at Deacon.  “Just tell me Deacon, just tell me, even if I won’t like it, I need to know.”

“It’s crazy ya know?”  Deacon looked her in the eyes.  “You’re right about why I married her, but you already knew that, hell, I didn’t deny it then did I?”

“No.” She answered.

“But something happened when you went missing.”  He started.  “At first I thought it was going to be my big opportunity.  I was married to the heir to everything and all I had to do was keep her smiling and I had the world at my fingertips.  I made my demands, I laughed in the old crow’s face, I hounded Gramps till he was ready to find a gun and shoot me.  I had money, I had a cushy job, I had women on the side, I had it easy and yet something changed.”

“You saw my daughter for who she really is didn’t you?”  Brooke asked but she was sure she was right.  Deacon winked and smiled.

“You’re one sharp cookie Brooke.   Saint Shrink is the one who runs around claiming to be able to read people but she doesn’t do it half as well as you do.”

“You’re giving me too much credit Deacon.  I’m just a mother who loves her children and it’s my maternal instinct that’s making it easier for me to see what’s going on.”

“If your maternal instinct was all that and a bag of chips you wouldn’t even be giving me the time of day.”

“I learned something while I was gone too Deacon.  I’ve learned not to be so quick to judge people and how to find the good inside someone.  You have a very rough exterior but there’s a lot of good in you too.  I like you Deacon, I never expected to but I like you. But go on, I want to hear what you have to say.”  She prodded him.

“Yeah, okay.  Where was I?  Oh yeah, Mr. Sharpe had it all in the palm of his hand.  But then like I said, it changed.  Suddenly I saw this sweet girl.  She loved me Brooke, she really loved me.  You have no clue how that would feel to someone like me.  No one ever loved me.  My mother had no time for me and hardly any use for me, the asshole she married and gave me his name would have been happy to bury me.  No one knows who my real father is.  I had no friends, just a bunch of alcoholic showgirls who introduced me to the sex stuff and some gamblers who showed me how to make a living cheating people.  I was a grifter and I was good, and I didn’t want or need anything else.  Or so I thought.”
“Deacon, I’m sorry.” Brooke looked so sad that he had to laugh.

“Oh, it wasn’t that bad, in fact I liked it.  I didn’t know better so to me this WAS normal and I was quick to learn how to get what I wanted and needed out of life.  I wasn’t a good person, I’m still not, but because of Bridget I’m a better one.”

“So am I.” Brooke said softly with a smile. 

“She touched me in ways I’ve never been touched.  She softened me and she scared me too Brooke.  Suddenly I had something I didn’t want to lose and yet I kept on my normal destructive ways.  Now I’m at this point where I know that the kindest thing I could ever do for her is cut her loose and I’m not sure I can.”

“Why?” Brooke asked, but she thought that she already knew the answer.

“Because I’m not sure I can give it up.” He answered.

“Deacon, I gave you my word.  You’ll still have your job and you’ll have a place to live.  You won’t suffer because of this.”

“But there you’re wrong Brooke, I will suffer because once I give her up I’ll be giving up the only good thing in my life.  I’m not sure I want to go back to being that Deacon again.”

 

 

“What are you doing?”  The woman in the Forrester mailroom demanded of the custodian who had come in pushing a large, wet mop.  “What is that smell?” 

“Got a call that there was a leak, pipe over there from the ladies room next door.” He pointed to the puddle on the floor.  “I gotta clean it up.”  He had already started with his mop.

“Oh gross.”  She grimaced. “Are they fixing it?”

“Plumber is in there now, I just gotta clean it up in here.  You all should wait outside, I gotta use some strong disinfectants.”

“I can smell that.”  She held her nose.  “How long are you going to be?”  She asked.  “I still have a lot of mail to sort.”

“Maybe you should just take your lunch hour, I should be done by the time you get back.” 

“Good idea.”  She smiled.  “Just let me move some of these trays out of the way.”  She grabbed several of the large but clumsy plastic trays and moved them to a table on the other side of the room.   She came back and trying to save time picked up four more at the same time. 

“You need help?” The custodian asked her.

“No, I’m.  Oh shit!” She shouted as the second tray buckled, dropping it’s contents to the floor.  “Can you help me?” She asked as she quickly tried to retrieve the fallen mail. 

The two of them hustled, grabbing the mail and shoving it quickly and haphazardly back into the tray.  Neither of them noticed the one stray envelope that slid under the table.  “Thanks, we got it all.”  She told him.  “I’m going to take your advice and get out of your hair.”

“I promise to be as fast as I can.” He grinned at her.  “Have a nice lunch.”  He watched her as she walked out of the room.  She had a cute little ass and she knew it.  He pushed the mop, watching her instead of his work.  He didn’t see the letter as he pushed the mop.  The small envelope slipped under the tall mail slots that were connected into the wall, disappearing completely from sight.

 

 

“Hi honey.”  Stephanie smiled as Taylor came into her office.  “How are things going?  Have you and Ridge moved back into the bedroom together yet?” 

“Stephanie!” Taylor gasped. 

“Oh don’t get modest on me.  I know you two had a wonderful sex life and I want to see that you get it back again, and there’s no reason why you can’t now that that bitch is out of his life.”  She got up, walked to the door and shut it.  “I’m also glad you’ve decided to take the job here.  Ridge gets to see you all the time and Brooke knows she can’t move in on your territory.  You have to be strong sweetheart, you know that don’t you?  If you give her an inch she’ll take your man.”

“Brooke isn’t interested in Ridge.”  Taylor reminded her.

“So she says, but it’s one of her games.  She’s playing hard to get for some reason.  Most likely because she knows he is interested in you and she wants to make Ridge think that she is some kind of prize.”

“Well if she is then it just may be working.”  Taylor pushed a strand of hair back and took a seat.  “Ridge thinks about her all the time, he’s very distracted.  This is hard Stephanie.  I know he cares about me but I’m not sure if he even wants to go there again.”

“Then it’s up to you to make him want to.  Taylor you have to fight hard!”

“I don’t want to fight, I just want my life back.  I was so stupid before, I gave it up way too easily and I know now that I shouldn’t have.  But I really don’t think Brooke is the problem.  She has this man from the island.  She seems totally committed to that.”

“She’s playing games.  She’s laying a trap for Ridge.  Taylor you know she doesn’t want this man, you know all her life all she’s ever wanted was Ridge.  Honey she is going to reach right in and grab him when you aren’t expecting it.  She’s cunning.  She’s going to use all her ammunition and you’re going to have to fight fire with fire.”

“He’s back home, we’re working on it Stephanie.  I can’t force the man.  What is it you expect me to do?  I’m not Brooke, I am not going to force a man to be with me when he doesn’t want me.”

“Of course you’re not Brooke and honey, he does want you, but you are going to have to use some of her games this time.”

“What games?” Taylor sighed.  “I’m too old and too tired to play games.”

“You’re going to just sit back and let that whore win?” Stephanie pounded her fist angrily on the desk.  “Taylor listen to me.  I am going to help you, I am going to help you help our family.”

“How?” Taylor asked. 

“Seduction, only you’re going to out seduce the seductress.”  She smiled.

 

 

“Can you love her Deacon?  Can you give her the life she deserves?  Can you be happy? If you really think you can I will support you, I will help you, but you have to be completely honest, not just with me, but with yourself.”  She took a deep breath and looked intently at him.  “Because if you’re not happy she won’t be either.”  Brooke was torn. She knew that Deacon wasn’t the right man for Bridget, but she had come to really appreciate him and she could truly understand why Bridget loved him.  But she also had gotten to know him to the point that she felt he’d never be happy in a long-term relationship with her daughter.  She was willing to give him the benefit of the doubt if he really wanted to try, but she just didn’t know if he was only trying to fool himself.  “Can you really spend the rest of your life in a marriage with my daughter Deacon?”

“You know, sometimes I wish I never met you.” Deacon smiled.

“I’m not trying to make this hard for you Deacon, I just want what’s best for Bridget, and for you too.”

“I know, but it is hard.  I’m going to try and do the right thing Brooke, for Bridget and for you. I just don’t want to hurt her and I don’t want to lose the two people who’ve treated me like no one ever did in my life.”

Brooke took his hand and squeezed it.  “I’ll still be here for you, I promise and in time Bridget will understand and she’ll love you for what you did for her too.” 

“That Nick guy doesn’t have a clue how lucky he is.”  Deacon smiled at Brooke, then leaned over and gave her a gentle kiss.  “Thanks Brooke.”  He looked at her once more and then left the office.  Brooke touched her lips where his had just touched hers and smiled. 

 

 

“Of course I miss what we had.  It was good, it was comfortable and I love you Nick.  Maybe we never had passion but we did have love.  We were partners! Not just at work but at home and in bed!  I can’t just pretend that it never happened and I’m really angry that you can.”  She threw her purse on the desk and sat down again.  “And now you want me to watch you moon over her again.”

“I just want you back in my life.” Nick protested.  “But I guess I can understand if you don’t want it.”

“I do want it Nick, I just don’t know if I can do it.  You know I am not the ice queen you seem to have me confused with.  I have a heart and it was broken and I’m trying to recover but you’re not making it easy for me!”

“So what do we do?  What do you do?  I don’t want to fight with you, I don’t want to make you unhappy.  Maybe I am selfish, but I don’t want to lose you.”  Nick looked so pained that Carla had to walk over and put her arms around him. 

“I’m going to try Nick.  I’m going to have lunch with you and talk to Brooke and try to have a civil relationship with her, but don’t ask me to be her friend, that’s just asking too much of me.”  She let out a deep sigh, gave him a final hug and let go.  “I’m going to the ladies room to freshen up.  And let me make a suggestion.”

“Yes?” He asked.

“Call Brooke, tell her I’ll be there otherwise she’ll probably be as uncomfortable as I am just thinking about it.” 

 

 

Brooke stood at the door to Ridge’s office watching him fitting Tatiana in one of his designs.  It was a normal occurrence at Forrester, one that would normally go without notice, but Brooke had a very strange feeling about this girl.  She had been nothing but polite, she was beautiful and had a body that complimented the fashions but still there was something about it.  She stood silently watching them.  Ridge seemed comfortable with her, in fact maybe a little too comfortable.  He was flirting and touching her more than necessary.  Brooke frowned but stopped herself, this was no longer her business.  But something about the girl was unsettling.  She couldn’t put her finger on it, but she intended to keep tabs on her.  She watched a few more seconds, then stepped back, cleared her throat and made her presence known. 

“Miss Logan.” Tatiana looked up at Brooke.  “Isn’t Ridge’s gown wonderful?”  She stepped away from Ridge to give Brooke a better view of the dress. 

“It’s lovely.” Brooke agreed. 

“Can I help you with anything Brooke?” Ridge’s voice was curt and slightly dismissive. 

“I’m going to be out of the building tomorrow.  I’ve asked Deacon to bring the models that he’s interviewing down.  I just wanted to make sure that you don’t have any of our new designs out where they could see them.  I also want you to give him the same cooperation that you would give to me.” 

“Deacon, sheesh.”  Ridge muttered.  “I’m surprised you haven’t brought in the cafeteria staff as your new designers.”

Ignoring his comment Brooke walked in and walked up to a rack of dresses.  She fanned through them, stopping at a gold gown.  “This is beautiful.”  She told him.  “I don’t remember seeing it before.”

“Am I now supposed to report to you with every design I start?” He sarcastically asked her. 

“Is this the relationship we’re going to have from now on?” Brooke asked him.

“You made that choice.”  He turned back to the young model. 

“Ridge, I’d like to speak to you alone.”  Brooke insisted.

“Can’t it wait?  As you might notice, I’m pretty busy.”

“No, it can’t wait.”  She answered.  She turned to the model.  “Tatiana, why don’t you go take your lunch break?”

“I’m not hungry.”  She said with a smile.

“Then go for a walk.”  Brooke told her.  “I want to speak to Ridge alone.”

“But.” Tatiana gave Ridge a pretty pout.

“It’s okay, it’s time for a break anyway.  You go on and we’ll get together again after lunch.”  He smiled at her.  Tatiana sighed but grabbed her things and went behind the screen to change. 

“Do you want to talk here or what?”  Ridge asked Brooke in an unhappy tone.

“You act like I’m the executioner Ridge.”  Brooke shook her head. 

“You made it this way Lo, Brooke.” He corrected himself. 

Brooke turned to Tatiana who was peeking over the screen.  “Are you dressed?  This is private.” 

“When do you want me to come back?” Tatiana asked Ridge. 

“I have a call I have to make and a couple of errands.  How about three?”  He suggested.

“Alright.”  She came out from behind the screen wearing skin tight jeans and a very sheer camisole.  Ridge gave her an appreciative look as she walked out the door.  Brooke frowned again, followed her and shut the door.

“I don’t trust her.”  She told Ridge.

“Why? Because she’s young and pretty?”  Ridge seemed more annoyed than before. 

“Are you sleeping with her?” Brooke asked point blank.

“I don’t see how it would be any of your business if I were.” He shot back.

“Personally no, except as a caring friend, but professionally it’s more than my business.”

“You’ve never taken a stand on anyone dating models before.”  Ridge challenged.  “Or is it just me?  Or is it just me and Tatiana?”

“Are you dating her?”  She asked.  “Because I’ve heard that you and Taylor were reconciling.”

“Once more that is none of your business.”

“Why Ridge? Why are you being this way?”

“You really need to ask?” He growled.  “You made your position about us very clear.  You can’t have it both ways, or are things not so great with the accountant?” 

“He’s not an accountant and even if he were, there is no shame in that.”  Brooke walked up to Ridge. “And for your information things are just fine with Nick.”

“Great, just don’t invite me to the wedding.” He moved away from her to the rack of dresses and absently started to go through them. 

“Do you hate me that much Ridge?”  She blinked quickly to hold back the tears that were forming in her eyes. 

“Look Logan.”  He turned to face her.  “You made your choice and it wasn’t me.  So don’t make it like I’m the one.  We have our own lives now, you went your way, I’m going mine.”

“All those years.”  She walked up to him again and pushed herself in front of him so he had to face her.  “All those times when you had chosen someone else instead of me I was always still there for you Ridge.  You were always such an important person in my life.  I never stopped loving you just because we weren’t together and I haven’t stopped this time either!”

“If you love me so much then just dump the loser and marry me Brooke!” He grabbed her by both arms and shook her. 

“Why didn’t you leave Taylor and marry me?”  She demanded as she freed herself.  “Because we both had to follow our hearts Ridge,” She answered her own question.  “And my heart told me that it wasn’t the time for us, it told me that I needed to see what could happen with Nick.  I didn’t do anything in an attempt to hurt you.  I didn’t tell you that I felt nothing for you, I told you that I wouldn’t marry you. You pushed Ridge, you pushed for more than I could give!” Her answer gave Ridge more to think about.

“So are you saying it’s not over for us?  Are you Logan?  Have you told lover boy that he’s just a placeholder until you are ready for us again?” 

“I didn’t say that either Ridge.  Nick isn’t a placeholder for anyone.  I love him.”

“Then what the hell do you want from me?” He shouted.

“I want my friend back.”  She said softly as tears streamed down her cheeks.

“I can’t be your friend Brooke, I’m sorry but I just can’t.”  He walked to the door and opened it.  “So if that’s it I think you should leave now.”

“I’m sorry you feel this way Ridge.  I’m tempted to tell you that you’ve lost the best friend you’ve ever had, but I won’t because it’s not true.  I will always be your friend, even if you’re not mine.”  She looked at sadly at him and then ran past him and down the hallway.

 

 

Deacon reached for the doorknob and then pulled away as if he were afraid of an electric shock.  And maybe it could be worse.  He had called around, looking for Bridget, only to learn that she was there, in Forrester, studying in Eric’s office.  He wasn’t sure what he was going to do, but he had to do something.  “Come on Deacon, you can’t just piss your way through life like a pussy.  She deserves more, you deserve more.”  He reached for the door and pulled his hand away once more.  “Do it you idiot.”  He ordered himself.  He took a breath and opened the door.  Bridget looked up and smiled.

“Deacon.”  She got up and walked over to him and gave him a hug.  “I’m so glad you’re here.  I was just about ready to close it up and go home.  Now maybe we can go home together.”  She let her hands slide down and caress his butt.  “It’s been a while since we worked on our little project.”  She pulled him close to her so that her womanhood was against his manhood.  “It’s been so long.  I want you Deacon and I want to make our baby too.”  She rubbed against him and was shocked when he pulled away.  “What’s wrong?”  She looked up in concern.

“We gotta talk Bridget.” 

“I’m not in the mood to talk, I want to make love.  I’ve missed you, it’s been so long.”  She purred and tried to get back into his arms but he held her back. 

“We really have to talk.” He looked away.  He had to remain strong and if he looked into those doe eyes of hers he was afraid he’d weaken.  “Let’s go to my office where we can have some privacy.” 

“Your office.” Bridget thought about it.  “Hmmmm.  Okay.”  She giggled.  She figured it out.  Deacon had something set up there for them.  She felt herself getting wet just at the thought of being with him again.  She loved sex.  She never knew how much she would.  “Maybe I’m my mother’s daughter after all.”  She giggled. 

“Huh?” He asked. He was distracted by his job at hand and didn’t understand her ramblings at all. 

“Let’s hurry.”  She said breathlessly. 

“Yeah, let’s just go do this.”  He had to agree. 

Bridget took his hand and frowned.  Never in all the time she had known Deacon had he had sweaty hands.  Then once more she smiled.  “You’re so cute.” She told him with a giggle.  He was nervous.  He wanted this as much as she did.  Today, she decided.  Today they would make their baby.

 

 

Carla reapplied her lipstick and opened the ladies room door.  She dreaded the return to the table.  She hated herself for it but she felt so unnecessary, so unwanted and she couldn’t shake the feeling.  In all fairness Brooke was being more than just polite.  She was going out of her way to be friendly and to steer the conversation to things that Carla could join in on.  She had asked Cindy and Ethan to join them to try and push away any awkwardness and to give Carla another friend but still, it was there.  From the moment they had sat down she had felt like she was invisible.  Nick was so in love with Brooke that he couldn’t tear his eyes off of her.  He doted on every word from her mouth, watched every movement and took every opportunity to touch her or kiss her or just to smile at her.  Carla had made every attempt to mask her jealousy and she felt that she had.  But it was more than that.  The new young man appeared to be completely enamored of Cindy.  Carla was happy for the girl.  She had been so at odds back in New York.  Her mother had died and that had sent her reeling but she had continued to push for her degree and to be one of the best workers that Carla had ever seen.  But she hadn’t had time for herself.  She hadn’t dated and hadn’t even seemed all that interested in it.  But like a butterfly she had emerged from her cocoon here in California.  She was more beautiful than Carla had ever imagined she could be.  She had changed her makeup and her wardrobe and every decision seemed to be the right one.  But it was more than just those things.  The girl was happy and her smile was so pure and genuine that it gave her a glow, a glow that Ethan seemed to be eating with a spoon.  So where did that leave Carla?  It left her sitting at a table with two women who both were being sweet and friendly and with two men who didn’t even know she was there.  The only saving grace was no one had brought up the embarrassment of her losing the position in Chicago.  She wasn’t sure her ego could have taken that on top of everything else.  Carla’s self esteem had taken a nosedive.  This late lunch was just about the worst time she had had in ages and all she wanted was for it to be over and to be back in her hotel room where she could make some very important decisions.  “Just go, finish your meal and make any excuse you can.  No one will notice or care anyway.”  She told herself.  Holding her head high she started back to the table.

 

 

“Uh oh, you don’t look very happy.”  Taylor smiled at Ridge as she entered his office.  He was sitting at his desk, toying with a design in charcoal. 

“Huh?” He looked up.  “Oh sorry.  I guess I’m just a little distracted.  What’s up?”

“I should be asking you that.”  She told him.  She walked behind him and looked down at the drawing.  “Nice.”

“No, not really.”  He shoved it aside. 

“Something is wrong.  I hope I haven’t done anything to upset you.”  Taylor gently stoked the side of his face. Ridge grabbed her hand, put it to his mouth and kissed it. 

“Never.”  He sighed.  “In fact, you’re about the only person who never does.  You’re never out for yourself, it’s always about me.  Maybe it’s time I learned to appreciate you more.”

“You won’t get a complaint out of me.”  She laughed softly.  “But actually I am here on a mission.”

“Oh?” He raised his eyebrows. 

“But it’s a good mission.  At least I hope so.” 

“I could use something good.”  He answered.  He was still in a foul mood from his argument with Brooke earlier. 

“I hope you’re game for something different tonight.” 

“Different?  How different?” Ridge asked her.

“We’ve been spending all our time with the children and while I think it’s wonderful and our family will always come first, well I thought, I mean I hoped, I mean, well I’d really like to have some time just the two of us.”  She said quickly and nervously.  “That is if you would want to.  I mean I won’t force you.”

“You wouldn’t have to force me Doc.”  He answered.  “I’d like some quiet time with just you.  Should I make reservations at Café Russe?”  He suggested. 

“Well, um, no.”  She smiled at him.  “I’ve made all the arrangements.  All you have to do is be outside at eight and the limo will be right outside waiting.”

“Limo?  Now you have me intrigued Doc.”  Ridge smiled. 

“Good.  That’s my intention.”  She walked around him and sat herself on his lap.  She brought her mouth up to his and kissed him.  Ridge moaned and pulled her tighter into the embrace, getting caught up in the unexpected kisses.  “Mmmmmm.” Taylor finally pulled her mouth from his. 

“Taylor, don’t stop, I was enjoying that.” Ridge complained.

“If you liked that, then you’re going to really love tonight.”  She whispered into his ear.  She got off of his lap, smiling to herself as she felt his erection rub against her.  “Prepare yourself for a night like no other.” 

“You can’t even begin to know how much I am looking forward to this.”  Ridge smiled at her.  He could make this work.  Taylor had made him happy in the past and she could again.  All he had to do was exorcize Brooke from his mind, and he would.

“It will be a night you’ll never forget.”  She leaned in and kissed him again, letting her tongue taste his own and then his lips.  “Tonight.”  She said.  She touched his lips where she had just kissed him, then turned around and left. 

“Wow.”  Ridge grinned to himself.  Maybe things were going to get better after all.

 

 

“Do you think Carla is okay?”  Brooke looked towards the ladies room to see if she was coming back before approaching the subject to Nick and Cindy.  “She doesn’t seem quite right.”

“No, but it’s understandable.  I wanted some time to warn you both but everything happened so quickly I didn’t get a chance.”  Nick’s eyes followed to where Brooke’s had just been to make sure Carla wasn’t on her way either.  “Dan gave the Chicago job to someone else.  He had Carla do everything and then he offered the job to Chuck Garrick.”  Nick looked at Cindy. 

“Oh no.”  She was stunned.  “Why?  Carla has tons more experience than he does.” 

“Old boys club.” Brooke frowned.

“Maybe a bit.”  Nick admitted.  “But I think he wants to keep Carla with him.  He’s a selfish prick sometimes.  He knows how important she is and he relies on her, I’m thinking he was very reluctant to lose her.  But it sucks that he screwed her over this way.  She said she’s not going back.”

“What will she do?” Brooke asked.

“Can she stay here?” Cindy wondered. 

Brooke looked quickly at Nick.  She wondered what his answer would be.  She wasn’t sure what she wanted it to be either.  She wanted to like Carla but she was still a little jealous of the past she shared with Nick and the hold she still had on him.  She hated herself for that, especially knowing that other women probably felt that way about her too.  She also knew that Nick was just as uncomfortable about Ridge but that he was trying to accept her relationship with him.  She was determined to be fair to Carla.  She loved Nick and trusted him, Carla was his past and his friend, just like Ridge was hers.
“I’ve offered her a position here.  I hope she takes it but I’m not sure she will.  I’m not sure she wants to stay with the Callahan group or just go somewhere new.”  He looked directly at Brooke.  “She went out on the line for me just like Ridge did for you.  I owe her more than I can ever repay.”

“I know.”  She softly replied.  And she did know.  She owed Carla too and Ridge.  They had both risked their own lives and saved her’s and Nick’s. 

“But it’s hard for her, knowing what we once were and how much I love you now.” He gave her a little smile.  “I know it’s asking a lot, but can you maybe encourage her to stay?  I think it’s what she really wants but, well.”

“Of course.  Carla is a very good woman and she is a part of your life.  I’ll do anything you think is supportive.” And Brooke knew at that moment that she meant it.  Carla was not an enemy or a threat. 

“Me too.” Cindy agreed. 

“I like her.  I hope she stays.”  Ethan added.  “When she interviewed me over the phone I was very impressed.  She was one of the main reasons I wanted to work for this company.”

“Mine too.” Nick admitted.  “I think we can all show her how important she is.  Let’s see if we can make her feel better about this mess.”  He turned and saw her headed back towards the table.  “Okay, here she comes.”

 

 

“No.” Bridget shook her head.  This couldn’t be happening to her.  She had come to his office expected to be romanced, instead Deacon had told her that he wanted out of their marriage.  “No.” She repeated.  “Deacon no, why?  Why are you saying this?  You love me, you want a family.”

“No, I don’t Bridget.  I don’t want a family.  I don’t want to be married.  It was a mistake.  I need to end it now, before it’s too late.”

“Too late?  Too late for what?  I love you! I need you! It’s already too late!” Tears were streaming down her face.  Deacon longed to hold her and comfort her but he knew he couldn’t.  He knew he had to remain distant or else she might change his mind. 

“Bridget I care about you, but this isn’t good.  I’m, I’m not happy, I don’t want a wife, I don’t want a family.  I’m no good for you.  You’ll be so much better off without me.”

“No.”  She sobbed.  “No Deacon, I love you, I wouldn’t be better without you.  Please don’t do this, please don’t leave me.”  She begged him.

Deacon was finding this harder than he had ever imagined.  He knew if he backed out he would never be able to leave and Brooke was right, he wasn’t happy and soon Bridget wouldn’t be either.  It had to be done, even if he did end up losing his job he had to end this and he had to end it now.  “I’m sorry babe, I really am.  I never meant to hurt you but it has to end.”

“Please.”  She reached out and grabbed his shirt.  “I’ll try harder, I’ll be a better wife, I’ll learn to be better in bed.  Deacon please don’t leave me.”

“Oh honey.”  He gently took her into his arms and held her.  “You are a better wife than I could ever want or ever deserve and you’re just fine in bed.  It’s not you, it’s not. I’m just not cut out for this.  I married you for the wrong reasons and I tried really hard to do you right, but I can’t.”

“You can, you are.”  She insisted.

“Bridget I’m not happy.”  He let go and stood back a little.  “I haven’t been a good husband and I never will be.”

“You’re a great husband.”  She protested.

“I’ve been cheating on you Bridget.” 

“Everyone makes mistakes.  So you got tempted and you gave in.  You’re so sexy that women must be throwing themselves at you.  But I know you didn’t mean it and I know you won’t do it again.  So if that’s why you’re being so silly forget it.”  She smiled at him.  “I forgive you.”

Deacon sighed and shook his head.  “I’ve been cheating since the day I married you and I haven’t stopped.  I’ve been with lots of women, every time I get a chance I take it.  I’m not worth your tears Bridget.  You need a guy who wants a wife and a home, you need a guy who will never ever look at another woman.  Baby that guy isn’t me.”

Bridget was shaking as she looked up at him.  “All along?”  She asked softly. 

“Uh huh.” He confirmed. 

“Even when we were trying to make a baby?”  Suddenly she looked up sharply.  “You wanted to make a baby! You wanted one too Deacon!  I know you did!”

“It was the cement.”  He said sadly.  “Your mother was dead and I wanted it all.  I wanted the power and the money.  I wanted everything Eric and Ridge and Stephanie had or wanted from you.  It was mine damn it! I worked hard to get it and I wasn’t going to lose it.  I was afraid you’d catch on and dump me.  I thought I could cement us down with a kid.  I never wanted a kid, I’m a lousy father, I’m selfish. It would have been all you. I would have made you pregnant and you’d have your little house and little baby and I’d have the money and power and the models and the cars and the booze and everything I ever wanted.”  He saw the stunned expression on her face.  She was finally starting to believe him.  “I’m a prick Bridget and you deserve so much more.”

“So as soon as my mother came home you knew you wanted out didn’t you?” She accused him.  “You never loved me at all did you?” She demanded.

“No.  Not when I married you.  But you showed me what a great person you are and yeah, I loved that about you, but I was never in love with you and I’m not now.”

“Get out!”  She screamed at him.  She grabbed the first thing she found on the desk, a stapler, and threw it over his head hitting the wall.  “Get out! I never want to see you again!  Get out!”

“It’s okay, you get mad, I deserve it.” He told her. 

“Didn’t you hear me? I said GET OUT!”  She screamed at him. 

“This uh, this is my office.” He answered. 

“Not any more it won’t be.  Not after I tell my mother and my father.  They won’t ever want you to come near any of us! So just go!  Go home, get your things and leave! Leave Deacon!”  She shouted.

 

 

 

“So did you do it?”  Stephanie walked into the office that Eric had given Taylor.  “Did you?” 

Taylor who had been kneeling on the floor, going through a box stood up and turned to face Stephanie.  “Yes.”  She smiled at her friend. 

“And Ridge?”

“He seems excited, interested.  But I have to admit, I’m a little nervous.  This isn’t my style.”

“Making love to your husband isn’t your style?” Stephanie scoffed.

“Former husband.” Taylor reminded her.

“Soon to be husband again.” Stephanie grinned like the Cheshire Cat. 

“I hope so.”  Taylor admitted with a sigh.  “And I have to admit that the idea of this little um, party does have me excited.  I guess it can be fun to be a little naughty.” 

“Is everything ready?  Can I do anything more?”  Stephanie asked. 

“The food will be delivered at eight, just when the limo that you hired will pick up Ridge.”  She said with a nervous laugh. 

“And you? Will you be ready?” 

“I’m still not sure about that, that, that.”

“Nightie?” Stephanie supplied.

“It’s more scandalous than anything from the Brooke’s Bedroom collection.” Taylor laughed.  “And certainly not enough material to qualify as a nightie.”

“Nothing scandalous if it’s a man and a woman who are in love and committed to one another like you and Ridge are.”

“I’m not so sure about that.”  Taylor bit on her nail, but quickly pulled it away. 

“He loves you honey.  Forget about the nonsense with Brooke, that’s over, it’s your time now.  So just go and make him see that.”

“Seduce him.”  She sighed.  “What if he laughs?”  Taylor asked in a worried tone.

“Are you kidding, if I know my son he’ll be tearing off what little material there is covering you and taking you on that bed the minute he sees you and I couldn’t be happier about it either.”  She added.

“I want to make love with him Stephanie, it’s been so long.  But what if he isn’t there yet?  What if he looks at me in that get up and wonders why he even came?” 

“Is this my son you’re talking about?”  Stephanie laughed.  “Oh how I wish I could be a fly on the wall.  I just know that he’s going to be so turned on that you’re going to be at each other before you even have time to undress him.” 

Taylor blushed and looked down.

“Maybe you can make me another grandbaby.”  Stephanie winked.  “He’s going to be so excited when he sees you honey.  So very excited.  You may even wonder why you bothered with food.”

“We need to eat.” Taylor gasped. 

“Yes, but not necessarily food.”  Stephanie said with a gleam in her eye that made Taylor blush once more. 

 

 

“Sorry I was so long.” Carla took her seat and put her napkin back on her lap.  She looked at her watch.  “Oh dear, it’s getting late isn’t it?”

“You have somewhere better to be?” Nick asked. 

“You know, I might just have to make some phone calls, you know how it is when you take time away from business.”  She nervously started to rummage through her purse.

“It’s okay Carla, Nick told us about Chicago.”  Cindy reached over and patted her hand.  “I think Dan is a jerk.”

“I hope you’re considering staying here with us.” Ethan added.  “I’d love to learn the ropes from you.”

“I can help you find a place if you’d like.” Brooke told her with a smile.  “I have a very good realtor and I know she’ll take you if I call her.”

Carla was mortified.  They knew, they all knew and they felt sorry for her like she was some kind of loser. Maybe she was.  She felt her face heating up and she felt unexpected tears forming.  She couldn’t let them see her cry.  “I, I appreciate everything but I need to be alone to make some decisions.  Thank you for the lunch.”  She stood up.  “Nick, I’ll call you.  Goodbye.”  She quickly turned and headed out of the restaurant.  Nick stood to follow but Brooke grabbed his hand.

“Let her be Nick, she’s embarrassed and she needs to be alone.  She’ll call you.”

He looked from Brooke, to Carla’s departing figure and finally sat down.  “I guess I blew it huh?”  He asked with a sigh. 

“She’ll call.” Cindy echoed Brooke. 

“It’s late.  I need to make a couple of calls but you don’t need to come back to the office.”  He told Cindy and Ethan. 

“Are you sure?”  Cindy asked. 

“I’m sure, you two go on.”  Nick turned to Brooke.  “Do you need to go back to Forrester?” 

“I should check in.”  She answered. 

“Want to come to my office where you’re done?  I’m not sure we’re going to want to go to dinner till late but we could take a drive or something.”  Nick suggested. 

“I’ll come down as soon as I check things out.”  She smiled.  “And stop worrying, she’s going to be fine, she just needed to get away.”

“Are you sure?” He asked.

“I’m a woman, I’ve been there, trust me.”

“With my heart and my soul and my life.”  He leaned over and kissed her. 

 

 

Bridget walked into Insomnia and sat at a table in a corner.  She was in a daze.  She looked down at the gold band on her finger and started to cry.  “Deacon.  Why? Why?”  She buried her head in her folded arms, sobbing softly.  She had been there for a few moments when someone gently touched her shoulder and sat down next to her.

“Bridget?  Bridget are you okay?” 

“CJ.”  She looked up at him and forced a smile. 

“What happened?  Are you okay?” He asked again.

“CJ, I’m so stupid, I’m such a fool. Why would I ever think anyone could love me? Why?”  She grabbed a napkin from the table and wiped her eyes and then blew her nose very loudly.  CJ looked at her and smiled.

“Well if you do that all the time I’d wonder why too.”  He teased and to his surprise she actually smiled.

“Only you could make me laugh.”  She admitted.

“You’re not laughing, but a smile is a good step.”  He squeezed her hand tightly.  “Do you want to talk about it?”

“Not much to say.  My marriage is over.”  She sighed deeply and dramatically.

“You hung in a lot longer than I had expected.”  He looked at her stunned face.  “You’re so much better than him Bridget.  He didn’t deserve you.  So why did you leave him?”

“He left me.” She said sadly. 

“The pig.” CJ muttered.  “Why?” He asked then shook his head.  “You don’t have to tell me if you don’t want to.”

“He didn’t want to be married.  He said he married me for the wrong reason and that he stayed because everyone thought my mother was dead and that I was in charge and he wanted the money and power.”

“He actually had the balls to admit that?”  CJ was flabbergasted. “Well, I guess I have to give him a little credit for honesty.”  He looked at her sad eyes.  “Bridget he never was good enough for you.  I know you’re hurting now but I swear that you’ll be happier in the end.”

“I love him.” She sniffled.  “But I’ll get over it.”  She forced a smile. 

“Are you still living at the beach house?”  CJ asked her.

“I guess.  I mean, I don’t know what to do CJ.  I don’t want to stay there, too many memories and I don’t want to go home and have Mom say ‘I told you so’ and I know she will.”

“I got an extra room upstairs.”  He grinned at her.  “Why not stay here until you make some decisions.  You won’t have to be alone, you’ll have me and I promise I’ll keep you laughing.”

“Oh Ceej, that’s so sweet but I don’t know.” 

“Where else?  You don’t want to go stay with your father and Stephanie do you?”

“No.”  She sighed. 

“Then there you go.”  He smiled at her.  “It’ll be fun.  We can watch movies and talk and just try and get you over this together.”

“I don’t know how to thank you.”  She smiled through her tears.

“You just did.”  He leaned over and kissed her cheek.

 

 

 

Nick couldn’t get his mind off Carla but he knew he had to take care of business or else he’d find himself in the same situation she was in.  He had called her twice and left messages, the next move had to be hers.  He looked over at the framed photo of Brooke and himself.  It had been taken on Catalina.  They had gone for the day and it had been so romantic and so much fun.  They had enjoyed the boat ride over and then they’d rented bicycles and rode around and explored for hours.  They’d stopped for a romantic lunch where they’d drank a little too much wine. Then they had gone shopping.  At first they had explored the shops together and then Brooke had asked him if he would mind if she went off on her own for a bit.  He had easily indulged her, though he hated to spend even a minute without her he respected her freedom and he was also intrigued as to what she was up to.  While she took off one way he had gone to a woman’s clothing store and bought her a colorful sweater and then had stopped at the small shop of a local artisan and had found a pair of earrings that matched it perfectly.  When they met up about an hour later Brooke had handed him a brightly wrapped package and he had in turn handed her the flowered shopping bag.  Inside his package was a white linen shirt and a silver bracelet.  He had grinned broadly and right there on the street had stripped off the shirt he had been wearing and replaced it with the one she had bought him.  Then she had slipped the bracelet on his wrist.  He’d then insisted that she open hers.  She had argued that she wanted to save it but he won out.  Brooke had been thrilled with the sweater but resisted changing on the street as Nick had done.  But she did let him slide the silver wires through her ears.  They had then walked arms around each other’s waists, stopping every few steps to share passionate kisses.  Nick had tried in vain to persuade her to spend the night together on the island in an evening of lovemaking.  They had instead had ice cream cones and waited for the ferry home.  Once back in town they’d had a light dinner followed by a long and satisfying if not frustrating necking session on Brooke’s sofa.  It was a day he’d never forget one that always brought a smile to his face.  And it did now, even in the moments of concern for Carla. He smiled again at the photo and placed his call.  “Prince Rasheed, it’s Nick Parker.  I have a new report on your daughter’s finances.  It seems she’s not hitting her funds any longer, she must have found an alternate source of income.  Perhaps a job or maybe a, err, friend?  Yes, yes, I will get someone on that.”  He promised.

 

 

Bridget sipped her latte and put it down.  She looked over at CJ and gave him a tiny smile.  “Shouldn’t you be working?  You don’t need to just sit here and baby sit me.”

“I’m the owner, I can slack off if I want.”  He laughed.  “And I’m not babysitting, I’m spending time with a beautiful woman.”

“Ha.” Bridget snorted.  “My mascara is all over my face, I have no lipstick, my clothes are wrinkled and well, I’m just an all over mess.”

“Nothing can mar your face Budge.”  He gently touched her cheek.  “Would you like to go up to the room though?  You could clean up and change.”

“See!”  She laughed softly. 

“Only if it makes YOU feel better.” He insisted.  “You’re always beautiful to me.”

“If Rick could hear you he’d think you lost it.”  She teased. 

“Rick may not appreciate his sister’s beauty, but I do.”

“Thanks.”  She said shyly.  “I umm, I don’t have anything to change into.”

“Then lets go to the beach house, pack a bag or two and come back.” CJ suggested. 

“But what if Deacon?”  She stopped.

“I’ll go in first.  If he’s there we leave and come back later, if not we do our thing and leave.”

“Sounds like a good plan.” Bridget agreed.  “Thanks so much Ceej, you’re such a good friend.  But first I need to call my Mom.  I don’t want her calling me and wondering where I am.  I need time alone before I face anyone.”

 

 

“Deacon?” Brooke knocked and opened his office door.  The room was dark and empty.  “Hmmmm.  Did I forget something?”  She wondered aloud.  “Or are you with Bridget?”  She gasped.  “Oh Deacon, be strong but be kind too.”

She stepped back into the hallway, bumping into Stephanie. 

“Oh, so you finally decided to grace us with your company.”  She said sarcastically.  “Do us all a favor, don’t bother.”

“Nice to see you too Stephanie.”  Brooke answered with a sugary sweet smile.

“I see you’re cavorting with someone of your own class.  Good for you, you’ve finally learned your place.”  She gestured towards Deacon’s closed office.  “Though what Bridget sees in him is beyond me.  For that matter why she even cares about you is beyond me too.”

“I’m her mother.” Brooke retorted.

“Yes, any animal can mate I suppose.”  She smiled at Brooke then, shocking her.  “It’s a beautiful day, a day to mark on all of our calendars.”

“I supposed you’re expecting me to ask why.”  Brooke rolled her eyes.  “Okay fine, I’ll bite.  Why Stephanie?  What’s so special about today?”

“Today is the day I’ve finally gotten you out of my son’s life.  You blew it Brooke.  You could have won.  You had him in Vegas but you had to keep playing your silly little games and this time it cost you.  He’ll never be yours now.  He doesn’t even want you.”

“Funny.” Brooke scoffed.  “He asked me to marry him again today.”  She looked at Stephanie with a triumphant grin.  “Oh don’t worry, I turned him down.” She added. 

“I’m sure it was out of some crazy sense of obligation.  But it’s the last proposal you’ll ever get from him.  I can promise you that.  After tonight it will be ‘Brooke who?’ for him.”  She crowed.

“I understand he and Taylor are trying to work it out.  I hope they can.” Brooke smiled.

“Sure you do.” Stephanie chuckled.  “Sure you do.  But they will Brooke.  They will because she is everything you’ll never be and she can still be as seductive as you too!”

“Good for her.” Brooke answered.  “I hope they’re happy.”

“You’ve been replaced Brooke. You’re no longer the woman in his heart.  I bet that just kills you.”

“Believe it or not Stephanie, I DO hope they’re happy.  I love Ridge, but he and I are at different places now.  I’ll always care about him and I’ll always want him happy and Stephanie.”  She looked at her with a cat like grin.  “I’ll always be a part of his life too.”  And with that she walked away to her office.

 

 

“It’s perfect.  I think.” Taylor looked around.  She had arranged it, with Stephanie’s help.  But she was nervous.  This wasn’t her style, but it could be fun and she wanted a night of total abandon with Ridge.  They could have their fantasy.  They could spend the night making love without a thought of the real world.  She opened the box and looked at what she was going to put on.  “Oh God.”  She moaned.  “Please, give me the strength to make this work and please let him love me as much as I love him.”

 

 

Brooke sat down at her desk.  Her temporary high over getting over on Stephanie was gone, replaced by her concern for her daughter.  She picked up the phone and called Deacon’s cell phone.  It rang and rang unanswered.  “He must have shut off the sound.  Oh please Deacon, please strong and do this.  I’ll be here to pick up the pieces, I will.”  She hung up the phone and was about to get up when it rang.  Brooke immediately recognized the number on display, Bridget’s cell phone.  “Oh God.”  She moaned.  “Mommy’s here baby, mommy’s here.”  She picked it up.  “Bridget?  Hi honey.”  She forced a smile into her voice.  She didn’t want to cause her alarm if it hadn’t happened with Deacon yet.

“Hi Mom.” Bridget answered. 

“Where are you sweetie?  Studying?” Brooke asked.

“I uh, I did that before.  I’m with a friend now.  I’m going to spend the night there.”

“Bridget?” Brooke asked with a frown.  “Is something wrong?”

Suddenly Bridget didn’t want to lie anymore.  “Mom, I’m okay, but Deacon and I, Deacon and I.”  She suddenly started to cry again.  “It’s over Mom.”

“Bridget where are you?  I’m coming.  Just tell me where you are and I’ll be right there.”

“No.” Bridget shook her head as she spoke into the phone.  “I’m okay, I’m really with a friend and I just need to be here.  I promise I’m okay.”

“But.” Brooke felt her heart breaking for her.  “Bridget I’m sorry.  I know this is hard for you, but I think it’s for the best.”

“He never loved me.  You were right.  You all were right.” Bridget sobbed.

“No baby, he does love you, but he doesn’t belong in the kind of life you want.  I know it feels like the end of the world but I promise you things will be better.  You are so young and so beautiful and you have a wonderful life waiting out there for you.”

“Maybe.” Bridget blew her nose again.  She turned to face CJ and smiled.  He laughed softly and took her hand and squeezed it again.  “But I’m okay.  So please don’t worry okay?”

“I’ll always worry about you honey.  I want you to come home.” Brooke told her.

“Maybe, but not now, not tonight.  I’m fine here really.”

“Where are you Bridget?” Brooke asked again.

“With a friend.  I’m okay and this is going to help me.”

“Are you with Betsy?  I know she could help you honey, but if you both want to come here that’s okay too.”

“Mom, I’m a big girl now.  I’ll be fine.  I’ll call you tomorrow.  I love you.”

“I’m so sorry baby, so very sorry.”

“It’s not your fault Mom.”  Bridget tried to reassure Brooke.  But it had the opposite effect as a cloud of guilt fell over her.

“I love you Bridget.  Just know that no matter what ever happens in your life, I love you.”

“I know.” Bridget answered.  “Bye Mom.”  She hung up.

 

 

Ridge walked outside at eight and there waiting for him was not a regular limo, but a Hummer limo.  He smiled and chucked.  “Doc, you’re always surprising me.”  He walked to the car where the driver held the door open. 

“Good evening Mr. Forrester.  Please make yourself comfortable.” 

“I will.” He answered and stepped into the car.  “Doc?”  He was surprised to find himself alone and even more surprised as the driver shut the door.  Ridge knocked on the window separating the back from the driver when he heard the other door shut.  “Excuse me, but where is Doctor Forrester?”

“We will be joining her.” He answered as he started the engine.  “Please help yourself to the champagne or there is whiskey, vodka or brandy if you prefer.  You’ve worked hard and I’m sure are tired.  There are hot moist body size towels for you and dry ones next to them.  Your clothes are in the box beside you.”

Ridge looked at the box and smiled.  Taylor was totally taking control tonight.  This was going to be fun.  He opened it up and found lightweight white cotton pants and a black vest.  “Hmmmm.” He rummaged through but found nothing else.  “Excuse me, but there isn’t a shirt, hey there isn’t any underwear either.”

“No, there isn’t.”  The driver replied with a dry chuckle.  “Please make yourself at home.  I’ll close the divider.  Ring me if you need anything.”

Ridge watched the glass close and then he opened the container where the man had told him the hot towels were.  Steam arose and Ridge smiled.  He quickly undressed and used the towels to clean his tired body.  It felt so good.  He then used the dry towels and found a bottle of Taylor’s favorite men’s cologne at the bottom of the basket.  “Okay Doc, it’s your show.” He splashed on the cologne and dressed himself in the clothes provided.  “Must be some kind of costume party.”  He laughed.  “Commando feels pretty good too.”  He pulled his cell phone out of the pocket of his abandoned clothes and pushed in the number for Taylor.  Nothing happened and when he looked the message was no signal.  He tried the windows but the button wasn’t working.  “Hmmmm.”  He knocked on the glass dividing him from the driver and then hit the little button.  “Hello? Hello?”

“Yes Mr. Forrester?”  The driver answered. 

“Can you pull over?  I can’t get the window to open and I can’t get a signal on my phone.”

“That’s right sir.”  The man answered.  “This car is equipped so that the signals do not work.  That was Dr. Forrester’s request.” 

“So I guess it’s all a big surprise huh?”  He asked.

“Apparently so.” He answered.  “Just sit back, relax and enjoy your drink.”

“Where exactly are we going?” Ridge asked.  “The windows are so dark I can’t see a thing.”

“Again, that was Dr. Forrester’s request.  I’ll put on the music she requested for you.  Just enjoy the ride.”  He closed the window between them again.  Soft, exotic, Arabian sounding music started playing.

“I’m going to get into this Doc.” Ridge laughed.  “I can’t wait to see what you’re going to be doing when I arrive.”

 

 

Bridget and CJ walked upstairs and CJ opened the door to the room.  “It’s not much but it’s clean and it’s away from Deacon Sharpe.”

“Yes.”  Bridget answered.  She put down her suitcase and CJ put down the two that he had been carrying.  “I wonder when he’ll come get his things.” She said softly.

“Don’t you waste any time worrying about him.” CJ told her.  He walked to the dresser and opened it.  “You should have enough room.  The closet’s over there.” He pointed.  “And the bathroom’s right outside.  I’m next door.”

“Thanks CJ.  I guess you better go back down to work huh?”  She looked at him with sad eyes.

“I told you Budge, I’m the boss.  Once you get yourself settled knock on my door, I’ll make some popcorn and you can pick out the DVD.”

 

 

Carla looked at the message light on her phone.  She knew it was Nick and she just wasn’t in the mood with dealing with any of this tonight.  “I need to go out, I need to just be someone else.  Just for once I want to be the kind of woman that isn’t afraid to just go for it.”  She pulled the short black dress out of the closet.  She had bought it on the way back from the restaurant.  She had never owned something like it before in her life.  It was short, it was low cut and it was sexy.  She grabbed the spike heels she had bought to go with it and then got out the sexy thigh high hose.  No pantyhose with this outfit.  Piece by piece she changed her appearance.  Then she went to the mirror.  The released her hair from the knot she usually wore to work, letting it flow to her shoulders.  She shook it out so it was free and just a little bit messy.  Then she took the smoky greenish eye shadow and the black liner and mascara and gave herself a look that was so far from her usual professional image that she almost didn’t recognize herself.  She finished the job with a dab of wet lip-gloss, picked up the small purse, grabbed her keycard, put it inside and left her room.

 

 

Deacon walked up to the bar and sat down.  He watched as Alex waited on a young couple.  She then turned and recognized him.  She gave him a smile and a motion that she would be right there.  Deacon sighed and scratched his head.  “I swore I’d never come back.”  He said aloud.  “But she was right.  There’s no place for me there anymore.” He turned to the man who was eyeing him suspiciously.  “What? You got a problem?” Deacon demanded. 

“I’m not the one talking to myself man.”  The man shook his head and got up, walking away from the bar. 

“Deac!” Alex came over and greeted him.  “You slumming?”

“Is that room still available?” He asked her. 

“Your room?  What’s going on Deacon?”

“In fact is my job still open?” He asked. 

“Uh oh.  I guess things didn’t work out for you huh?”  She leaned over and gave him a hug. 

“Nope.” He extricated himself and looked down at the ring on his finger.  “Nope.” He repeated.  He tugged at it until it finally came off.  He put it down on the bar.  Then picked it up and spun it around and around.  “Bourbon and keep it coming.”

“That bad huh?” She asked.  “Well today’s your lucky day.”

“Ha!” Deacon said with a sarcastic laugh.  “Yeah, right.”

“Well the manager quit and Stan asked me to help him find someone new.  I’m sure he’d love to have you back and yes, the room is still available.”  She poured him a shot and placed it in front of him. 

“Lucky, yeah, that’s me.”  He picked up the drink, downed it and slammed the glass down.  “Another.” He told her.

“Joe’s leaving next Friday.  But you could still take the room right away, in fact you could spell me behind the bar till Joe’s gone if you’d like.” Alex suggested as she poured him another shot.

He was about to pick it up when a pretty blonde and a sexy brunette came up on either side of him. 

“Mmmmmm now this is a sight I hadn’t expected to find.”  The brunette sat next to him and gave him a wet kiss on the lips.  “I’ve missed you Deacon.”

“Hey Deac.”  The blonde sat on his lap and gave him a kiss.  “I’ve missed you too.  I’ve missed you a lot.  In fact if you’re up for it, I’d love to go upstairs and show you just how much I’ve missed you.”

“Actually we both would.” The brunette got up and started kissing him too.  “Remember that night when the three of us.”  She giggled and stroked his chest. 

“Alex.” Deacon stood up, pushing both women away.  “I’ll be back for the room tonight and yeah, I’ll take that job.  But I gotta get out of here.  I need to be somewhere where I don’t know anyone.”

“Gotcha.”  Alex winked.  “I’ll leave the door open.”

“Lock it.” Deacon instructed her.  “I still have my key and I don’t want anyone coming in.”  He looked at the two girls he had rebuffed.  “Sorry ladies, but I am just not good company tonight.  Maybe some other time.”  He started to walk out.

“Maybe some other century!” The blonde shouted out at him as he left.

 

 

“We’re here.”  The driver announced. 

Ridge sat up straight, anxious to see what awaited him, even more anxious to see Taylor.  He tried to look through the darkened windows but he could only make out shapes.  He was glad when the door was opened.  He gathered up his things and stepped out of the car.  “Wow.” He was stunned when he saw what was in front of him.  They were in the desert but in a place with some trees and shrubs.  The sky was crystal clear with a full moon that he hadn’t even noticed back home but the most amazing thing was what was directly in front of him.  It was a huge white tent, softly lit inside.  “Is she in there?” He asked. 

“I’m sure you’ll be happy.”  The driver told him.  “You won’t need those.” He took the pile of clothes, the phone and the briefcase that Ridge carried from him.  “Enjoy.”  He went back to the car and immediately drove off.

“Well Doc, you certainly outdid yourself.”  Ridge laughed as he walked to the tent.  He opened the flap and walked inside.  “Oh my God.”  He gasped and smiled.  There was a fire going inside and it gave the whole tent a soft glow, but he barely noticed that.  What had all of his attention was the bed.  The bed and it’s occupant.  He walked closer, his eyes on Taylor.  She looked so beautiful and my God, so sexy.  She wore scraps of the most filmy, sheer material he had ever seen.  It was soft pink and it covered her, and yet it covered nothing.  He could see her entire body.  He looked at her breasts and her nipples instantly hardened.  His own body hardened in response.  “Doc.” He whispered.  Then he noticed her hands and legs.  They were tied to the four ornate posts on the bed with the same flimsy material.  She was wrapped up for him like a gift. She was his gift. 

“My God Doc.”  He moaned softly.

“I’m yours Ridge.  I am your slave.  Your every wish is my command.”  She replied in a voice that dripped of sex and pleasure.  “My body is aching for you.”

“Mine too.” He answered.  As he walked closer to inspect the scraps that had her tied he did a double take.  “Doc!  Where on earth did you find this bed?” He laughed and yet he was turned on.  All four posts of the bed were ornate carvings.  And the carvings were all of sexual acts and then he looked back a bit to see that the four posts were all shapes as huge phallic symbols.  “I’m not sure I’m going to be able to compete with that.”  He laughed.  “But I’m sure as hell going to try.”

“Come to me.  Take me my master.”  She said softly.  “I exist just to pleasure you.”

“I’m sure I can return the pleasure too Doc, I’m sure I can.” And with a gleam in his eye he joined her on the bed.

 

 

Brooke yawned and looked at Nick.  “I’m sorry, I’m so preoccupied.”

“I’m sure she’s fine.” He stroked her arm and gently pulled her back into his arms.  He reached for the remote and turned off the movie that neither of them had been paying any attention to. 

“She loves him so much, at least she thinks she does.  But Nick, she’ll be happier in the long run, they both will.  But still, I’m worried about her right now.”

“You said she sounded okay.” He reminded her.

“She did, but I’m not so sure it wasn’t all an act.  I wish she would have just let me help her.  I’m so scared she’ll end up hating me if she finds out that I encouraged him to leave.”

“Do you think he would tell her?” Nick asked.

“No, not on purpose, but it’s bound to come out.  I don’t want to lie.  I need to tell her, but it wasn’t the right time.  She needs to let it all sink in and to realize that her true happiness is still something that hasn’t happened yet.”

“She will.” He gave her a gentle kiss. 

Brooke looked up at the clock on the mantle.  “It’s late, I had no idea it was this late.” 

Nick looked over at the clock himself.  “Yeah, it is.”

“I’d better go.” She stretched and yawned again.

“Stay here.” He told her.

“But Bridget.  What if she needs me?”

“You have your cell phone, she’ll call you, but honey I think she’s going to just want to be with her friend right now.”

“Yeah, I guess you’re right.”  Brooke admitted.  “But Nick, I can’t stay.  I’m just not ready for that yet.”

“I have a guestroom.” He smiled.  “I don’t want you driving home, so if you’re not staying then I’m driving you home and I’ll come get you in the morning and bring you back to your car.”

“That’s too much trouble.” She argued.

“Then stay.” He smiled at her.

“I don’t have a night gown or a toothbrush or anything.” She protested.

“I’ll give you a tee shirt to sleep in, I have a spare toothbrush and anything else you need.  It’s late, you’re tired, please stay.”

“Okay.” She finally relented. 

“Come on.” He stood up and pulled her to her feet.  “I’ll get you the shirt and get you settled in.”

“Thanks Nick.”  She gave him a hug and a kiss.

 

 

The sign was dark blue neon.  It read Rendezvous and it looked like just the place he wanted to be.  It was dark and while it couldn’t be called seedy or sleazy, it was not the place someone like Bridget would be and that was just what Deacon needed.  He stepped inside and stood for a moment, letting his eyes adjust to the darkness.  There was a jukebox playing some jazz.  Deacon felt comfortable.  He walked up to the bar and waited for the bartender to come to him.  “Bourbon.” He told him. 

The bartender pulled out a bottle and poured him a large shot.  “Here you go Mac.”

“Thanks.”  Deacon turned around and surveyed the room.  There were several tables.  Some occupied and some empty.  A couple sat together in one, drinking beer and listening to the music.  Another had several men who watched a soundless television broadcasting an old classic World Series game.  There was a pool table, but no one was playing.  “Men’s room?” Deacon asked. 

“Back by the entrance, quick right.”  He pointed.

“One more, I’ll be right back.”  Deacon downed his drink, got up and walked to the men’s room.  When he returned he saw a woman sitting alone at the other end of the bar.  He motioned to the bartender and he went over and sat next to her.  He wasn’t sure why he had done this, he had come here to be alone, but there was something about her.  He sat down next to her and when the bartender came and gave him his drink he picked it up.  “One for the lady too.” He turned to her and smiled.

“Thanks, but I can buy my own.”  She answered.

“Okay, then buy me one.” Deacon suggested. 

“Fine.”  She pushed a twenty-dollar bill towards the bartender.  “Take his from here and get me one more.”  

Deacon looked at her drink, vodka straight up, not a frilly girly drink.  He liked that. 

“Hey!” She called out to the bartender.  “If you’re going to try and sneak house shit on me you’re not charging me for Stoli.” 

“Good catch.” Deacon laughed.  “Gotta get what you pay for.”

“And with you would I?” She asked.

“I ain’t for sale.” He shot back. 

“Fair.”  She turned towards the pool table. “You play?” She asked him.

“Yeah, a bit.  You challenging me?” 

“Maybe.” She watched him pull a pack of cigarettes from his pocket.  “Isn’t that illegal here?”  She frowned.

“So it is.” He shoved the pack back in his pocket.  “Haven’t had one in months, finally buy a pack and can’t find a frigging place to smoke them.”

“Maybe that’s telling you something.” She suggested.

“So what’s the bet?” He asked her.

“Bet?” She looked at him.

“The game. If I play you what’s the wager?”

“Hmmmm.”  She picked up her shot and drank it down.  “I don’t have much money.”

“Then something else.” He said with a glow in his eyes.

“Are you suggesting what I think you are?” She asked.

“Probably.” He laughed.

“Hmmmm.  So does that make me a winner or a loser if I get you?”

“Loser, definitely a loser.” He sighed.

“Come on.”  She got up and walked to the table.  “Wanna break?” She asked when he caught up with her.

“Sure.” He grabbed a cue stick while she racked the balls.  “What do you want to play?” He asked. 

“Doesn’t matter.” She answered with a strange expression. 

“Okay.”  He waited for her to remove the rack.  Then he got in position and broke.  The twelve ball went into the side pocket.  “I got stripes.” He told her.  He walked around the table and lined up his next shot.  He pointed to a corner pocket and shot, but the ball missed.  “You’re up.”

She smiled and picked up a stick.  She walked around the table, took her position and promptly sunk the eight ball.  “Oops.  I lost.” She smiled.

“You did that on purpose.” He told her.

“So I did.  Looks like you just got lucky.  So where to?”

Deacon’s eyes widened.  He didn’t go out looking to score, but this woman turned him on in ways no one had in a long, long time and she had a story, one he was curious to hear.  “My place is too far.”

“Mine’s further.” She told him.  “There’s a place across the street.”  She opened her purse and took out several bills and handed them to him.  “Get us a room.”

“I told you I’m not for sale.” He handed her back the bills.  He looked at her disappointed expression.  “I’ll pay.” He added.

Nick opened his eyes with the creak of his door opening.  The moonlight framed her as she walked in.  His tee shirt fit her like a mini dress, even if it was an ill fitting one.  “Brooke?”

“I’ve been so stupid.” She walked to the bed, pulled back the blankets and got in with him.  “Forgive me?”

“You’ve done nothing to forgive.”  His heart was beating so hard, so fast and so loud. 

“Then just love me Nick, because I love you so very much.”

“I do, I do.” He pulled her to him and their mouths met in a frenzy. 

“Nick.” She moaned.  “Oh Nick.”  She struggled out of his arms.

“Princess don’t go.” He begged her. 

“No, not going.”  She pulled the tee shirt over her head and then pulled the blankets aside.  She started to tug at his shorts.  “Lift up.” She instructed him.  Nick lifted his but off the bed and she pulled the now offensive shorts down.  He kicked at them until they fell from his body.  “Yes.” She purred.  She kneeled down and stroked him with her hand.

“Oh God, so good.” He moaned. He moved to pull her to him but she struggled away. 

“My turn.  Owe you so much.”  She then lowered her mouth to him. 

“Brooke.” He gasped.  “Oh God.”  She looked up at him with satisfaction as she continued to give him pleasure.  He moaned and rose from the bed as her mouth gave his body a roller coaster ride.  “I’m going to come Brooke, you need to stop now or I won’t be able to stop.”  But she shook her head and continued.  Nick didn’t have it in him to fight her.  He was enjoying it too much and he loved her loving him.  With a loud groan he lost it.  His body shuddered and then finally relaxed.  Brooke crawled up the bed and got back into his arms.  She kissed him again.  “That’s our love.”  She whispered. 

“Now you’re going to have to give me a little while to collect myself and then I want to make love to you.”  He said between kisses.

“Protection?”  She asked him. 

“Shit.” He muttered.  He sighed and pulled her against him.  “I’ll go out.”

“It’s too late.  Tomorrow.” She gave him a smile.  “We have a lifetime and I promise, I’ll never say no again.”

“When we were on the island and we thought that you were pregnant.” He looked at her.

“Nick, some day I’d love to have your child, but not yet, not until we’re both ready for that.  For now I’d like to just enjoy each other and when we’re both ready we can plan a life and a family.”

“God I love the sound of that.” He kissed her.  “But Brooke, I’m going to make love to you just like you did to me.”

“Goody.” She giggled.  “Cause you’re sooooooooo good at that.”

“I think we can pass the night just fine.” He laughed. 

“And in the morning a trip to the drugstore.” 

“What about work?” Nick asked. 

“We’ll both call in sick.”  She giggled again. 

“I love you so much.” He kissed her deeply.

“I love you too.”  She cuddled close but he started to pull from her.  “Hey!” She protested.  “Ohhhhhhhhhh.” She sighed as Nick made his way down the bed.  His hands gently spread her legs and his fingers began to explore and tease.  “Ohhhhhhhhh.” She moaned. 

“I need to slow you down.” He said as he slowed his pace.  “I want this to last a long, long time.”

“Nick no, don’t stop, please don’t stop.” She begged.  He stroked the inside of her thighs, teasing as he came close, but kept avoiding the contact she was begging for.  She thrust herself at him and he laughed. 

“You really need it don’t you?”

“Yes.” She moaned.

“That’ll teach you for making me wait so long.” He laughed.

“Oh Nick please.” She begged. 

“You’re so hot, so sweet, so wet and so ready.”  He let his thumb gently circle her nub.  Brooke almost jumped from the bed.  “You’re going to come too fast.”

“Please.”  She moaned again.

“No problem, I’ll just make you come all night long.” He stroked her just where she wanted him to. 

“Oh God yes! Yessssssssssssssssssssss.” She screamed as her body exploded. 

“And just think Princess, I haven’t even gone down on you yet.” He grinned as he lowered his mouth to her open and eager body.

 

 

Deacon rolled off her and reached for the cigarettes.  “Shit, you f*ck like an eager virgin on her wedding night.”  He lit the cigarette and inhaled deeply.  “You can’t get enough of it.”

“I haven’t had it this good in a long time.”  She reached for the cigarette, took it from him, inhaled, coughed and handed it back to him.

“You’re not a smoker.  But you sure were smoking.  Let me go get something to cool us off a bit and I’m up for another round.” 

She reached for his erect pen*s.  “You’re already up for it.”  She stroked him.  “Forget the drinks, I want to f*ck again.”

“Don’t ever let it be said that I don’t give a lady what she asks for.”  He put the cigarette out in the ashtray and got on top of her.  “How you want it this time?” He asked. 

“Surprise me.”  She squeezed his balls, and ran her hand up and down his pen*s.

“Surprise.”  He laughed and flipped her over and lifted her up a bit.  “Woof woof.”  He said as he shoved his hard member deep inside her.

 

 

“Doc that was fantastic.” Ridge rolled off of her and smiled.  “Everything is fantastic.  Did you do this all yourself?”  He asked.

“Most of it.  I had a little help and encouragement.”  She gently touched his face. 

“Don’t say it Doc, please don’t say it, you’ll ruin the mood if you do.” 

“She loves you, she loves me, she loves our family.”

“Doc don’t.”  He moaned.  “God, I feel like Ray Barone.  I’m expecting my mother to come bursting in here like Marie does to Raymond.” 

Taylor laughed softly.  “Oh Ridge, that’s so silly.”  She rolled closer to him and kissed him.  “She means well.”

“I suppose.” He smiled.  “But please tell me the only thing she helped with was the food and the car.  Please?”

“Okay, I’ll tell you that.” She giggled. “But it wouldn’t be true.”  She added.

“Arrrrrghhhhhh.” Ridge gave her and exaggerated groan.  “No more details, no more details, I just couldn’t take it.” 

She laughed again and curled up in his arms.  “I’m so happy Ridge, I feel so right here with you again.”

“I do too Doc, more than you can even imagine.” He kissed her.  “I love you.”

Her eyes filled with tears.  “I love you too Ridge.”  She sat up in the bed.  “I have to ask you something.”

“Sure.” He took her hand.  “Anything Doc.  We have no secrets.” 

“I want you back Ridge, I want you back as more than a housemate, more than a roommate.  I want you back as my husband.”  She reached for a box next to the bed and handed it to him.  “Marry me again Ridge.  Please let me be your wife again.”

He opened the box and found her old engagement ring.  He looked at it and frowned.  He put it down.  “I can’t put this ring on your finger Taylor.”

“I’m sorry, I just hoped, I just thought.”  She pulled away, tears rolling down her face.

“Because I can’t just make this a do over Doc.  I want it all new and perfect and beautiful.”  He stroked her hair, her face.  “So when we get home, I’m going to buy you the most beautiful ring in the world and I’m going to announce to the world that Taylor Hayes Forrester has agreed to become my wife again.” 

“Oh Ridge.”  She threw herself into his arms, planting kisses all over his face.  “I love you so much.”

 

 

“What are you doing?” Nick walked into the kitchen and up behind Brooke.  He put his arms around her waist, pulling her against his body.  He started kissing her neck and shoulders. 

“Stop! I’m cooking!” She protested.

“You weren’t saying stop before, and you were sure cooking.” He teased.

“Silly man.”  She turned around and kissed him.  “You know Nick, you need to do something about getting some spices.”

“You’re all the spice I need.” He kissed her deeply, tasting her mouth, loving every bit of her. 

“I make a really good omelet, but this one won’t be quite as good as usual.” She pouted.  “And Nick, American cheese? Is that the best you could do?”

“I didn’t know I’d be entertaining Julia Child.”  He chuckled.  “But you give me a list and I’ll get anything you want.  I want you to feel as much as home here as you do in your own house.”

“I already to, or else I wouldn’t be complaining.”  She giggled. 

Nick ran his hands down to the bottom of the tee shirt, ready to caress her butt, but was pleasantly greeted by the fact that the ONLY thing she was wearing was the tee shirt.  His hands found and cupped her butt.  “Nice ass.” He gently stroked it. 

“Niccccccccccck.” Brooke warned. But it was too late as his hand slid between her legs and started stoke her. “The eggs, Nick the eggs.  I’m almost done.”

“Okay sweetie.” He moved his hand away and although it was what she had said she wanted, she sighed sadly.  “Let’s eat fast okay?” 

“Very fast.”  She put down the spatula, turned off the burner and jumped into his arms, wrapping her legs around his waist and claiming his mouth with her own.

 

 

“I’m not sure if I am going to be able to survive you.” Deacon laughed.  “But I am sure glad something made me walk into that bar tonight.”

“Is it not one of your regular spots?” She asked.

“Never been there before.  You?”

“Me either.  Guess it was your lucky day.”

“Not tooooooooo conceited.” He laughed.  “But lady, you are worth it.”

“I’ve enjoyed you too.” She admitted.  She pulled her arm up and looked at her watch.  “I’ve got to go, I have an early appointment.”

“It’s late, stay the night and get up early.” Deacon reached to pull her back. 

“I can’t.”  She got up.

“When am I going to see you again?” He sat up and scratched his head and yawned.

“I’m not sure you are.” She smiled at him.  “But it was nice.”

“It was f*cking fantastic.” He answered.  “I want to see you again.  Hey, I don’t even know your name.”

“No names.” She said.  “I like the anonymity.” 

“Just a first name, mine is.” He started but she covered his mouth with her hand. 

“I’ll meet you at the bar on Friday at ten, but no names.” 

“I guess I have to take what you give.”  He sighed.  “But you will never know how you rescued me tonight.”

“And you me.  Perhaps it was fate.”  She suggested.  “But it was nice and it was fun and if you’re there on Friday we can do it again.”

“I’ll be there.” He answered quickly.  He finally had something to look forward to.  “But please, just your first name.”

“Call me Jane.”

“And I’m Tarzan?” He asked.

“If you’d like.”  She smiled and pulled her dress on.  She picked up her panties and her hose and stuffed them into her purse.  She slipped on her shoes, walked to the bed and kissed him.  “Bring more condoms next time.  I could have done a few more rounds.”  And with that she left the hotel room.

 

 

Brooke fed Nick one last bite and put down the fork.  She kissed him, licking the remnant of egg off of the corner of his mouth. 

“You make a mean omelet.” Nick told her.

“You taste better.”  She kissed him again, running her fingers through his hair as she did.  “What time is it?” She asked.

He looked at the kitchen clock.  “Four am.” He answered.

“Drugstore open yet?” She asked.

“I know one that might be.” He laughed. 

“Go, I’ll clean up while you’re out.” She got off of his lap.

“Hey Brooke?”

“Yeah?” She turned to him again.
“Would you consider the pill or that patch or something?” He asked.

“I haven’t had too much luck with it, but sure, I’ll give it another try.”  She smiled.  “But for now.”

“Condoms.  I’ll go get my shoes and shirt, you stay undressed.” He commanded. 

“Yes sir!” She gave him a mock salute and then started to giggle.  “Can you get me some M&M’s while you’re out?”

“Plain or peanut?” He asked.

“Plain.” She gave him one last kiss.  “Hurry.”

“I will.” He left the room, got his shoes and threw on a shirt and Brooke heard the door close. 

“I’m going to marry that man.” She said aloud with a smile.  “And a lot sooner than he realizes too.”  She giggled.

 

 

Stephanie walked to the door and opened it.  The man who had chauffeured Ridge to Taylor stood there.  “Well?” She asked.

“I just brought them home.  They seemed very happy.”

“And do you have it?” She asked. 

“Here.” He handed her a video cassette tape. 

“Thank you.  Wait here a moment.”  She walked to the other side of a room and returned with a large thick white envelope.  “Here.”  She handed it to him. 

“It was a pleasure doing business with you.”

“Not a word to either of them.”  She warned him and then shut the door.  She listened for sounds from Eric upstairs but once she determined that he was still sound asleep she walked to the television and put the tape into the VCR.   She fast forwarded through Taylor as she nervously dressed, or rather, undressed.  She sped through Ridge’s initial entrance but slowed down as they started to make love.  A smile came over her face.  She knew it was wrong, she know she was being a voyeur, but she wanted to be sure that Ridge was going to do the right thing. She slowed down the tape as Taylor handed him the small box and she let out a gasp as he handed it back to her and Taylor began to cry.  “No honey! Don’t do this! Forget that tramp! Taylor is the one you love!” She spoke to her son on the tape. She let out a sigh of relief when he declared his love and his intentions for Taylor.  She shut it off as they began to make love again.  “You did the right thing honey.”  She held the tape to her chest.  “Now I know you will be happy.”  She smiled as she brought the tape to her own personal safe and started to lock it in.  “No.  I think someone else needs to see this.  She needs to know that she will never have my son again.”  She put the tape into her large purse.  “I’ll see you later Brooke.”  She laughed.

 

 

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