Against All Odds Chapter 111 Can You Stand The Rain?

Eric was astonished by Stephanie’s words. The woman was clearly delusional. After all the things that she had done to his children, her own children, to Bridget not to mention to Brooke she had the gall to say that she has forgiven him? “You’ve forgiven me?”
“ Yes my darling.” Stephanie said. She stepped closer to her husband to fix a misplaced hair on his handsome head. “That woman is delusional. Always has been. You have no idea what I’ve been through. What this has done to my image. What this almost did to our marriage. I will admit when I saw the press conference on television this morning and I heard that you were living with Brooke…well I.” She sputtered out a nervous laugh. “ I lost it a little.”
“ You did.” He said with little pity. Stephanie who was caught up in herself didn’t notice how Eric had yet to embrace her or even touch her. Eric on the other hand, felt his skin crawl as he looked at the woman he had loved with loathing. What used to be a beautiful lovely woman was now a shell. Oh, she could change her outside appearance, the changes to her hair and clothes made her look beautiful however it didn’t change that inside she was rotten to the core. “ I’m sorry to hear that you were upset.” He stepped forward.
“ Oh Eric. This has taken its toll on me. Seeing you on TV with that man eating bitch.”
“ Did I hurt you?”
Stephanie gave him a sullen look.. This was going to work out even better that she planned. She’d work on him. Guilt him into doing whatever she asked. “ Yes. You did. The entire world thinks that you are living with her. Siding with her. I was made to look foolish.”
“ Foolish?” Eric moved to caress his wife’s new haircut. Her hair was now a beautiful mixture of silver and blond short tresses.
“ Yes. Being arrested was bad enough. Handcuffed, fingerprinted and hulimated.
“ Was it now.” Eric’s hands moved down her hair.”
Stephanie relaxed allowing herself to feel of his hands on her. “It was an awful experience. Being locked away in a smelling cell with criminals. Women who committed serious crimes.” Stephanie moaned softly as Eric caressed the knot in her neck massaging the tension out of it. “Ohh.” She leaned back against him. “ That’s the spot right there.”
“Right there?” His words whispered against ear.
“ Yes.” Darling. A look of triumph passed her face. He massaged harder. Stephanie winced at the roughness of his hands. Flinching she tried to pull away but couldn’t. “ Eric. You are massaging too tight.” She winced again as his fingernails bit into her skin. “Eric do you her me?” He tightened his hold. His fingers found their way around her neck. Panic started to set in.“ Eric…you are hurting me.”
“ I am.” He breathed as he tightened his grasp around her neck. “That is nothing compared to what you’ve done to the rest of my family you hateful bitch.” Eric closed his eyes and grasped tighter wanting to choke the life out of his wife.


Caspian cupped Brooke’s face inside of his hands. She saw the wild intense look in his eyes. “What is it?” She asked honestly concerned.
If she only knew just how much he loved her. How much he wanted her above all things. He’d give up everything just to ensure her happiness. He wasn’t sure how in the world he was going to destroy her happiness by taking her father, proving her mother to have had an affair and destroying the only family she had ever known. The only family who had been her only source of support that she had ever had. Brooke’s family had been the only constant in her life. How was he going to be the one to take them away? He continued to caress her face. “It’s nothing.” He whispered to her. Caspian gazed at her like a man possessed.“ I just wanted to look at you.God. How I’ve missed the feel of your hair in my hands.” He said sliding his hand down her neck and up behind the nape of her head. “ It’s like silk.” He moved his head down to nuzzle the side of her neck inhaling to catch the traces of the boy cream that she had used earlier that day. “I missed your smell. Your scent alone can drive me crazy. His tongue found the pad to her ear traced it before he moved down to the curve of her neck. “ Every night. I’d lay in bed just thinking of you.” His tongue traced her collarbone to stop where the two bones met. “ All I wanted was you.” His voice shook with emotion.
Brooke closed her eyes. His mouth was playing havoc with her senses. Seeing him with fire in his eyes, knowing that he had missed her and needed her just as she needed him made her want him more. She could only anticipate the union they’d have. She was already moist and wet at the mere thought of his mouth, his hand and what they were going to do to her. Caspian grasped her head feeling the damp hair as it cooled his fingers. He pulled her head back exposing her neck. She could see the intense look in his eyes. The fire boiling beneath it. It was like a monster that was trapped just waiting for a chance be freed. He didn’t have to ask because she knew what he needed.

Stephanie tried to get away. The air was being blocked as she struggled for breath. It hurt to inhale. She tried to talk but words would not escape her lips. She couldn’t go. Oh God, he was killing her. That was her last thought before it all turned to black.

Ridge pulled up to his Beverly Hills mansion. After a couple of trips from the car, he and Taylor finally had gotten the entire luggage and the kids settled in the house “ I think that pizza may be the best bet.” Taylor said to Ridge when it came downstairs from the kid’s room.
“ Okay. I’ll order Pizza Hut.”
“Find out what Bridget likes.” Taylor said searching for her coupons. Ridge frowned.
“ What’s wrong.”?
“ It’s nothing.”
“That frown doesn’t seem like nothing.”
“ It just…well. If I were to be honest. I’m not ready for her to leave. Not just yet.”
Taylor nodded. “ I understand. The weekend was nice. It gave you a chance to bond with your daughter. Bridget shouldn’t have to go home right now.”
Ridge agreed with Taylor. “Maybe we could convince Brooke into letting her spend the night.”
“ Maybe.” Taylor wrapped her arms around Ridge’s waist. “ But why don’t consider taking another route instead.”
“ Like what?”
“ Like what we talked about earlier. After all, she’s your daughter.”
Ridge wasn’t sure. He turned and listened at the hard rain hit the windowpanes of the French doors. Taylor continued.“ You have certain rights. It’s time that you thought about the good that you could give your daughter. We have so much to offer her.” Taylor heard the kids playing upstairs. “ Just listen to that. Have you noticed the affect that she has on the kids? How about the one they have on hers? She looks so happy. With everything going on with your mother, Brooke and Scott, Bridget is still happy because of us. Do you want to know why?”
“ Why?” He turned toward her.
“ Because of us. Her family.” Taylor leaned her body closer to Ridge. “We are the family she needs. She shouldn’t have to leave us if she doesn’t want to.” Ridge kissed the top of his wife’s head. Taylor had made a convincing argument on the drive home. But he wasn’t completely sold on the idea, not because he didn’t want his daughter but because of what this might do to Brooke. There was a large part of him that loved Brooke to cause her more pain was out of the question.

Brooke traced a little line under Caspian’s eyes and noted that it hadn’t been there before. There was something about him. Something different. Was he worried about something? What family business had kept him away from her? What was going on? She wanted answers to her many questions. She intended to get them But before them. She wanted him inside her. Just as he wanted her. “ All that I want is you.” It was all he needed to hear. Brooke pulled his head down toward her and their mouths came together. He took total possession of her mouth. His tongue thrust inside the creveses of her mouth. It wasn’t gentle or loving it was about possession. Brooke didn’t care, at the moment, all the wanted was him. Caspian groaned in the back of his throat as Brooke fingers found the edges to his shirt and tore at them. He heard a ripping sound but he ignored it. His fingers found the hem of what was left of her drenched silk top and pulled it off her. “God, you are so beautiful.” Looking at her as if he never seen her naked before. He made quick work of her bra leaving her top fully naked to his exploring eyes. “ So Beautiful.” Fingering a nipple he traced it. Brooke watched with baited breath as he played with her nipple. An aching inside of her intensified. Lowering his head to took the nipple in between his teeth and extended pressure.
“ uhh.” Brooke’s cry echoed throughout the room. Caspian quickly took the ache away by sucking her nipple inside of his mouth. Brooke closed her eyes. His hands found her button to her pants and undid them while his mouth still suckled at her breast. Brooke kicked her legs to try to get the clinging wet material off her with no available. Caspian’s wet mouth moved from her breast to her other one suckling even harder. Brooke arched her aching breast inside his mouth while body moved against his. He took his mouth away looking down at her swollen wet nipples before his head descended down toward her stomach. He kissed his way down toward her navel lapping up at the water that was left from the wet top. When he realized that her pants were caught twisted and tangled in her legs he stopped his assault and helped her out of her pants. Kneeling at her he smiled up at the sight of her. Her hard nipples jutting out in front of her. Her tanned body damp and taunt with need. Brooke stared down at him. Caspian looked so young and carefree in that moment.
“ You look different.” Her fingertips mingled in his dark hair. “Sometimes when I look at you seen so serious in control but when I look at you like this you look so carefree.”
Caspian didn’t know what to say to her statement. He opened his mouth and the truth came out. “When I’m with you. It all disappears. All my worries. All my concerns. For so many years I just lived from day to day. But not with you.” He reached up and caressed the side of her face. “But until you came into my life. I had not lived. You bring me so much joy.” A vulnerable look passed on his face. And for a moment Brooke thought that she could see tears in his eyes. It was more than she could have asked for. It was worth more than all the diamonds or all the gold in the world. It was more than romantic getaways or trips to anywhere on the earth. It was love shinning in eyes. Pure love radiating from him. Brooke looked down into the depths of his soul and saw herself. But she also saw something else. She saw pain. Who had done this to him? Who had hurt him?
“ That’s all that I want to do Caspian. Is bring you joy and love you.” Tear filled her eyes.
“ I love you so much.”
Caspian closed his eyes and hugged her to him pressing his face against her stomach. Brooke wasn’t sure how long they stayed like that but it seemed that he needed her comfort. So she held him hoping to take away the pain that was deep inside of him.
Slowly he uncoiled himself from her. There was silence in the room. Rain hit the roof creating it’s own musical beat while the candles lit the dim room. The day that almost turned to night at the rain came down hard. Caspian stood slowly. He wanted to make this moment last. Savor it whenever instinct told him to take her hard and fast.
Brooke watched him standing in a pair of lace panties and nothing else. He was silent as he stripped his ripped shirt off his body. The muscles in his arms bunched together. His chest magnificent at the rest of him. Caspian unbuttoned his pants and stepped out of them. Next his discarded his underwear standing proudly naked before her. He was pure sin. His muscular arms, chest and thighs not to mention his huge manhood that jutted out in front of him. It took would be hard yet like satin to the touch. Caspian stepped before her and took her mouth into a long sweet kiss. He played with her tongue. Kissing her so much that her heart nearly swooned. Then he worked his way down her body until his hands pulled her panties down. Brooke then stood proudly naked in front of him.
“ Amazing. You are so amazing.” He murmured kissing the top of her center. It was a light kiss; more like a nip but it send pure fire through her. He wasn’t done. “Part your thighs.” Brooke opened her legs not feeling the slight bit of embarrassment of doing this in her living room. Caspian parted the curls at the juncture of her thighs. He felt her wetness. It thrilled him to know that she wanted him just as much as he wanted her. He found her nub with his mouth. Brooke closed her eyes as his tongue played with her. He knew where to stroke, where to touch to make her ache. Brooke grasped his head pulling him closer to her as he suckled hard. In no time her mouth and wet tongue played over her until she climaxed. Her legs buckled as he caught her. He laid her on the pallet. The satin was warm against her skin. She tried to pull him down on top of her but he wouldn’t let her. He pulled the lid off of tray, which had scented hot oil on it. Pouring the liquid of his hands he started at her feet. Massaging her he took his tip suckling on of her toes in his mouth before he kissed the arch of feet. He moved his hands all over her body, her thighs, stomach and breast caressing and kissing them. Brooke head thrashed as she tried to fight off the assault but soon when he pushed two fingers inside of her just as his mouth found her nipple once again she climaxed. Closing his eyes he held her as her body shook. Brooke arched her body against his slowly. Caspian closed his eyes as he slid her body under his. His mouth tasted like her essence. So sweet and intoxicating. Brooke curled her legs around his waist. “Now. Caspian. I need you now.”
Caspian needed her too. He had waited as long as he could. He moved himself to the juncture of her thighs placing himself at the center of her. Brooke found his manhood with her hands and helped him as he pushed inside of her. Closing his eyes he groaned with the pleasure of her wrapped around his so tightly. Brooke moved against him opening herself against him. Caspian opened his eyes and watched with pure pleasure. Their hands clasped each other’s. His mouth kissed her softly. Together they moved. Slowly at first. They wanted to savor the moment. The peace of their interlude. Sighs and moans were all that could be heard above the soft music and rain. Brooke’s fingers tightened against his buttocks as he moved inside her. Then he turned holding onto her as he lay of his back causing her to be on top. Brooke arched against him. She rode him hard. Her body aching as she moved up and down on top of his shaft. A bead of sweat rolled down between her breast. He lapped it up with his tongue. Caspian sat up and her on top of him riding. He moved hard loving the feel of her on top of him. She was going to kill him. But he didn’t care he was going to die in her arm. Brooke felt his mouth on her breast, her neck. His kisses rained all over her while his hands kept her hips from moving away to far from him. She rode him until she started to climax. The pressure of her muscles around him was enough as he roared when he came inside of her.

Taylor hung up the phone. “ The pizza is on its way.” She turned to Ridge who was lost in his own thoughts. “Ridge?” She was concerned about him. Ever since the drive home, he had been very quiet. She wondered if she had pushed to hard. Taylor touched him lightly on the shoulder. “Honey did you hear me?”
“Mmm what? Sorry Doc.” He kissed her absently on forehead.
“ You’re thinking about our conversation again aren’t you?”
“ There have been a lot of changes going on. I’m not sure that this will help the family unite. That’s what I really want. With everything going on with mother….I’m just going to tread lightly. Brooke’s been through enough.”
“ This isn’t about Brooke it’s about Bridget.”
“ What is?” Bridget who had been coming down the stairs interrupted them. “If something is going on with me. I should know about it.”
Ridge didn’t want to stir up trouble. “ It’s nothing sweetheart.” He went to his daughter and kissed on the top of her hair before petted it.
“ It didn’t should like nothing to me.” She said wondering if Taylor had broken her word.
“ Your father and were just talking about the wedding.” Taylor lied to cover up. “We wondered if you still wanted to go with everything going on.”
“ Is there still a wedding?”
Taylor looked at Ridge who quickly nodded. “Yes Princess. We just thought that maybe you might have changed your mind.”
Bridget was relieved. “ No. Of course I want to be a part of the wedding.”
“ Super. Then your father will have to start designing you the most beautiful dress to match my wedding gown.” Taylor put her arm around Bridget. “I’m going to need some help with my wedding, would you help me?”
Bridget didn’t know what to say. Taylor had been so different lately. Kind, compassionate and a really good listener. After all she had done, ruining her marriage the first time and causing her miscarriage Bridget saw this as a chance to make things right.
“I’d love to help.”
“See honey, I told you.” Taylor said with a wink to Ridge. Ridge watched them as Taylor started talking about wedding plans. It was almost as if things were normal. Taylor was happy. She accepted his daughter and they were planning his commitment ceremony. He knew that Taylor meant well. Bridget would always have a place here but taking Bridget from Brooke wasn’t the answer. Brooke had been and was a good mother. They’d surely work something out but not right now. His beautiful daughter needed both of her parents, mostly her mother. Ridge would never do anything to hurt Brooke or Bridget. He loved them both. Taylor would have to understand that.

“Charlie gave Storm a hot cup of coffee. “ Here this will warm you.”
Storm finished toweling off his wet hair. Instead of skinny-dipping or whatever he had in mind, the two of them had gotten caught in the torrent of rain. They had headed back to her apartment to dry off.
“Thanks.” He rubbed his hair and sipped the coffee. Charlie couldn’t help to notice the muscles budge in his arm. Her eyes traveled down his now naked chest. Getting caught in the rain hadn’t been planned but it certainly had its benefit. Storm caught Charlie staring at him and felt a sense of satisfaction. Damn, she did notice him. Good. He sipped her coffee. “ Since skinny dipping it now out what do you think we ought to do while my clothes dry?” He asked huskily.
“ Oh…counselor. I think that I have just the thing.”
“ You do.”
“ Yes. I do.” She winked at him. “ Why don’t you follow me to my bedroom.”
Storm smiled. His blue eyes sparkled. “ Now that is something that I didn’t expect for you to say.”
Charlie crossed her arms in front of her. Wearing a white camie top and tight blue jeans that she had changed out of from her wet clothes she looked good enough to eat. Storm knew that he’d start at her red toes and work his way up slowly. He’d savor every moment with her.
“ Well, what are you waiting for, follow me.” Charlie gave him a delvish laugh.

Nico studied the file that Gus had given her. Her quick photographic memory took in the information that she needed. There were new codes for her to call when or if she got the encrypted files that Micro Tech was supposed to have had. Hell, the more she investigated the matter, the more she found nothing. Nicco wasn’t a fool. She knew that type of business that the DeAngelo were involved with but now more than ever it seemed that they were clean. They were in the legitimate business world. Not even his money to start the company had seemed to come through his mafia underworld connections. They man had invested, done well and started up his company. MicroTech had very little turn over rate. They cared about their employees treating them well. They had fantastic pay, great benefits and stock options. Although Caspian liked to stay out of the limelight, there had been talk of the different charities and educational scholarships that Microtech supported privately. Nicco wondered often about the man behind the vision. There were little on him. His father had been Salvatore DeAngelo, a hard man and through back from the day of loyalty, vendetta and Mafia. Caspian had been raised in private schools and bodyguards. However, that all changed when his father “Sonny” had died in an accident. Truth be told, nobody had much of a clue about how Sonny had been killed. However, Caspian had left his school and disappeared for years in the underworld of his family business at a young age. There was some speculation of his involvement in the Verettie massacre in which the entire Verettie family had been wiped out on their daughter Rose’s wedding but no evidence of that fact. Although he had been mentioned here and there with possible arms dealings and family takeovers, there had never been any type of evidence that Caspian was involved with anything. He like his mentor Grayson was ghost. An apparition that was talked about little yet feared. Caspian was enigmatic. There had been mention of a wife in his file however nobody knew much about her except that she died under mysterious circumstances. Nicco had even noticed that there was no picture of her, nothing. Nobody seemed to know her name or what she even looked like just that it was heard that she was beautiful and he was insanely jealous of any man. Some said he killed her. Others said that he grieved her. Still, there had to be something. The man didn’t start seeing other women until at least three years after his wife died based on the facts. He showed no real interest in any one woman in particular until Brooke Logan Forrester.
Now, that was interesting. Brooke Logan was known a savvy businesswoman and a man-eater however she had never steered too far from the Forrester family tree until now. Nicco was sure that a woman like Brooke had no idea of the man she was taking into her bed. Nicco grimaced. The case was a mess. Other than a few notes from a former agent who had infiltrated the family over 20 years ago, there was very little information. The agent had been under deep cover disappeared never to be heard of again. Any evidence that they had on the family their arms dealing, racketeering, stock corruption or any other crimes had vanished. There had been nothing. Until now. There was the hint that MicroTech was secretly creating codes that would uncover certain undercover agents all over the world. This made it priority one status to find out if it were true. At first, Nicco was all for it after all she had her own personal agenda to get closer to Caspian and his sister. But now she doubted the rumors. It didn’t make any sense. The man was richer than God. He wouldn’t need to see codes. If he had been interested in power, he’s stay in the family. But still, who could say that he wasn’t still “in” the family. No one had ever left. Caspian surely couldn’t be different. Nicco would do her best to find the evidence she needed. This was the only way she’d get in turn what Aurturo claimed that he had, information to who her parents were.

 

Brooke lay on her back breathing hard as she tried to catch her breath. She turned her head to the side to watch Caspian who was in the same condition as she was. Smiling to herself she started to giggle.
Caspian turned his head and watched her with wonderment. He fingered a strand of her damp hair. He cupped her face. “What’ so funny?”
“ I’m buck naked in my living room just finishing having sex with the most wonderful man in the world.”
“Most wonderful man in the world? I’m not sure if I’m that.” He gathered her up in her arms.
Brooke laid her head on his chest. “ I’m missed you so much.”
“ And I you.” He kissed the top of her head. “ More than you ever know.” He hugged her close to his body. Brooke listened to the beating of her heartbeat and the sound of the rain. “Are you hungry?”
“ No not at the moment. I ate at work although those chocolate tarts and minicure fruit tarts, crème filled cakes and éclairs looked delicious. On cue Caspian stood up and walked over to the table where there was a myriad of delicious foods to eat. Delighted in not only the food but watching a very handsome naked Caspian retrieve the tray. He made his way back to her. Taking a pink frosted with a sugared almond on top, he placed the dessert in her mouth. Brooke chewed the delicate dessert.
“Mmm. Ms. Martha’s?”
Caspian nodded as he quickly devoured two. “ I had her make a special tray just for you.”
“ You think of everything, don’t you?”
Caspian poured both he and Brooke a glass of champagne. “I try. When it comes to you it’s easy. You don’t ask for much.” She sipped the cool liquid as she picked a chocolate torte and then fed it to Caspian. He used his tongue to lick the remaining chocolate off her fingers.
“ Why is it if it comes off your fingers it taste so much better?”
Brooke shook her head and allowed him to feed. “Mmm.”
“ Good?” He asked.
She looked him. So dark , sinfull and aroused. She licked her lips. His erection grew. Her eyes widened. “Better than anything that I could have asked for she said before she bet her head to taste him.”

Stephanie came to. She sat up gasping and touching her neck while trying to catch her breath. “Here you might want some water.” Eric handed her water. She took it taking a large gulp to find it volka. She spit the offensive drink out. “ What are you trying to do?”
“ Maybe I was trying to kill you.” Eric sated with little mercy.. Stephanie for once in her life looked frightened. “Oh, don’t be scared. I would have finished you off if I really had intention to do you in at the moment. But, don’t test me.”
Tears filled Stephanie’s eyes. He had wrapped his hands around to her neck and tried to strangle her. “ Why?” She looked up at him.
“ Why you ask? Because maybe I thought that you should feel some of the pain that I felt. Maybe you ought to be in pain the way that Bridget was in or maybe me, Thorne not to mention Brooke.”
Stephanie’s face contorted with rage. “ Brooke.”
“ Don’t.” Eric pointed to her. “ Don’t you utter her name, do you hear me. After what you did to her and our granddaughter don’t you mention her name.”
“ But I thought….”
“ You thought what? That I had been fooled by your lies once again? That I’d believe and forgive you just like I have done in the past? Well, those days are over. Stephanie I know what you did and you aren’t going to get away with it!” The skies lit up and thunder boomed in the distance.

Connor had had a grueling session of tennis at the club and just stepped out of the shower and began to dry himself off when he heard his cellphone ring. Grabbing it, he answered. “Trey.”
“Connor. Just letting you know that I’m on my way back.”
“Did you get anything on Caspian DeAngelo.”
Trey too a sip of Hennessey and coke. “You aren’t going to believe what I got. I’ll meet you at your office around 11:45 tonight.”
“ Good.” Connnor hung up the phone. He had planned to take KC out but he’s scrape that idea. He needed to know just who in the world Brooke had gotten herself mixed up with.

“Troy?” Storm gave Charlie a questioning look.
“ Movie and fresh popped popcorn.” She took a handful and crunched on her snack. “What else did you think was going to happen?” She asked with a mischievous look.
Storm knew what she thought he thought and she was right. He’d much rather be getting naked on her nice warm but since that wasn’t an option, Troy worked fine for him.
“ Brad Pitt fan?”
“ Yes. That man has the most amazing body. Don’t you think?”
“ I wouldn’t no. I don’t go around checking out men, not when I have a chance to check out beautiful doctors.” Charlie couldn’t help but to give him a small smile. The man was certainly charming.


The photographer took another shot. It was one of K.C wearing a corset dress with short hemp sleeves and a quarter inch skirt while she stood over a drawing table. Yvette nodded with satisfaction. She couldn’t have asked for a more perfect model than K.C. She was a natural and the camera loved her. Yvette had already seen the proofs from the pervious day’s shoot and was most impressed. “ That’s a wrap.” Marcus nodded at K.C. who relaxed her stance. “ Ms. Hunter, it was a pleasure. I can’t wait for you to see the finished product.” It had been a long day for K.C. First the photoshoot, the press conference, the mini fashion show and then three changes of clothes for the other photoshoot.
Yvette turned to her giving her a much needed glass of water. “ I really appreciate your commitment to this. I’m sorry that things ran longer that expected.”
“ It’s okay.” Believe me.” K.C said between sips. “I understand the nature of the business. We have very long nights around here.” K.C went behind a Japanese screen and took of her dress she had been wearing for shoot and changed into a pair green of dress drawstring cincos and a sloping satin shirt. “
“ I bet you do.” Yvette said frowning while looking through her schedule for the next day. It was going to be another long one. “This are pretty hectic around here.”
“ More than usual.” KC stepped from behind the screen. “The months before a show is more than stressful. So much is at stake. The investments, time and money. Not to mention waiting with pins and needles just to see if the press loves your collection. It’s very tricky. One bad review or line and it could cost millions.”
“But you still love the process.” It was clear that KC loved it.
“ It can be hetic…but it’s worth it. Seeing something you create glide down the runway…it’s like giving birth. Well, kinda.”
Yvette understood. “ It’s different seeing your words in print because most of the time they were someone elses but at times when you write something and it comes off perfect there is nothing like it.”
“ It’s an amazing process especially here at Forrester. You got through a process of designing and changing again an again. Then Eric takes a look at your work, makes suggestions or loves it the way that it is. Then there is the sewing process, the revisions. The weight and feel of the fabric in your hands and then the liquid motion of the clothes as it falls around the body. Then entire thing has a life of its own. It’s an amazing process.”
Yvette scribbled down KC’s words. “ Do you mind if I quote you. I will go great in article.”
“ Tommorrow, I would like few shots of you in your home. I’ll finish up the article and see if you want to make any changes.”
“ Is that the usual procedure?”
“ No, normally I’ll write it and send you a copy before print but I’ve really enjoyed getting to know you. I’d like to get your feedback.”
KC smiled broadly. “Thank you. You’ve been working non-stop.”
“ It’s worth it. In this business you’ve got to get the head start.”
“ So do you ever take break?”
“ Sure.”
“ How about tonight. I know this great stop with fantatic spot with mudslides and buffalo wings.”
“ Real hot”
“The hottest.”
“ I’d love to.” A sound classical music of Yvette’s cell phone interrupted them. Yvette turned to take her call. “Hello.” KC noticed how Yvette’s body language softened and a huge smile took over her face.“No. This is a pleasant surprise.” Yvette looked over at KC. “ I’m very glad to hear from you. Well….” She giggled a little. “ I missed you too. Listen, I’m with a client right now but call me in an hour.” She paused. “What? No. That won’t be a problem. That’s great news. I’ll see you soon.” Yvette hung up with phone holding it slightly to her chest.
“ I take it that was a personal call.”
“ Was it that obvious?”
“Yes.” KC gave her a knowing look. “ I take it he is someone special.”
“ Very. We’ve known each other a little over a year. He’s everything that I could want from a man. Handsome, funny, rich.”
“ Rich?”
“ Loads of money. But it isn’t that although there are perks. It’s just that he’s everything I could want. But lately I’ve noticed a slight difference in his behavior. It’s like he’s pulling away.” A regretful sigh escaped her mouth. “But he’s on his way here and it’s not for business.” She sat down crossing her leg. “ A purely personal weekend. Away from the chaotic life in New York. I’m looking forward to it.”
“ So, I take it you’ll be here longer than you originally anticipated?”
“ Good, why don’t we make plans for all of us to get together for dinner.”


Stephanie couldn’t ever remember seeing Eric looking so furious as he did at the moment. Her hands to her neck protectely. He had tried to hurt her. “ What are you talking about?” She moved back against the sofa in trepidation.
“ I’m talking about your lies. You see. I know about all of them.”
Stephanie’s mind raced. How could he know what she had done? She had covered her tracks. Could that little slut Trudie told him the truth? “ Eric I haven’t….”
“ SHUT Up!” He screamed at her, his face blood red and veins popping in his neck.
“ I don’t want to hear anymore of your lies. I know what you did. You bribed that lab technician to changing Bridget’s paternity. I saw it. The guilt in your eyes.” Stephanie was relieved, he had no real proof only what he thought. Though he was angry, she was sure that she’s be able to convince him that it was a mistake. I’ve lived with you all of these years and I know that look in your eyes. I’ve seen it before. When you are guilty. You stole Ridge’s daughter and tried to make her mine. Why?” Deep lines formed around his mouth. “Why couldn’t you leave things alone? Bridget had a happy home with a mother and father who loved her. They were on their way to getting remarried and you ruined it.”
“ I didn’t do that. I know that Brooke has gotten to you but she’s lying to you.” She grasped his hand. “ You know me. I would never do something like that. It’s Brooke. She’s filled your head with lies about me.”
Eric shook his head shaking her hand away from his. “ Brooke has done nothing but to tell me the truth. Even after all the things that I’ve done to her with that Bridget fiasco a couple months ago she has treated me like family. Cared for me. Taken me in and shown me what a real family is like.”
“ That bitch loves nothing but herself. I love my family. I’ve been trying to protect it from the likes of her.”
“ You shut up Stephanie.’ Eric spat. I don’t want to hear anything about your love of your family. You don’t know how to love. All you know how to do is to control and manipulate everyone.” Eric watched her with pure scorn. “ For years you’ve run ruff shot over everyone. Bullying your own children and I let you. God knows that I let you.” A strong sense of regret came over Eric. Sorrow for all the pain that she had caused them.
“ I looked the other way. I made excuses for your behavior and how you treated everyone. I saw how you played favorites with Ridge ignoring the needs of the other children.”
“I did no such thing.”
“ Yes, you did. Everyone was expendable as long as it wasn’t Ridge. Ridge came first with you. But I allowed it. Kristen was bullied into hiding her sexuality because of you.”
“ She was confused. She needed guidance.”
“She needed understanding. Even now you can’t see it or allow her to be happy with Sam. She’s gay. You forced our daughter to marry knowing that wasn’t what she wanted and I let you. Not to mention how you Felicia wants nothing to do with you. She has a whole life that you aren’t a part of because she can’t connect with you.” Eric’s heart was heavy with the truth of the injustice he allowed to happen to his family. “ I let you push Ridge to be a head designer, not giving Thorne the time or the attention he needed to thrive. Not giving him his due in the family business.”
“ Ridge was your heir.”
“ Thorne deserved your love and attention as well as Ridge. Hell the only time you paid him any attention was when he was involved with Brooke. Everything is about her and your obession with her.”
“ Obession? She’s the only obessed not me.”
“ Every waking breathing moment it spent trying to get rid of Brooke.”
“ Because that woman has done nothing but try to destroy my family. I’ve tried to protect everyone from her. She’s lied, cheated and slept her way through her this family and you expect me to great her with open arms? I’m sorry but I’m not going to do that.
“ You never accepted her though she tried over and over again to please you.”
The muscles around her mouth tightened. “ Why should I?”
“ Because she was family. The mother of your grandchild.”
“ I never knew that.” She snapped. “That woman spread her legs for any man in a blink of an eye. It’s not my fault she didn’t know who the father of her child was.”
Eric shook his head disbelieving that his wife was so delusional about her hate. “ You used to have a wonderful relationship with Bridget. She loved you. She was such a happy little girl. Full of love and light. She knew no pain because she had her family to adored her. Not to mention Ridge. I never seen a man more committed to his family than when he was with Brooke, Bridget and Rick. Ridge was happier than I’ve ever seen him.”
“ Not happier than he has been with Taylor and the children.”
“ Get up off it Stephanie. I remember. I remember how crushed Ridge was when he lost Bridget.” A tightness forced in Eric’s chest. “ He was never truly the same after that. How could he be with his child stolen from him? Not to mention Brooke. The pain that she suffered for a crime she didn’t commit. And in all that time you were convincing me to take the children away from her.”
“ It was the right thing to do. She was and still is an unfit mother.”
Eric hardnened his resolve. “ No Stephanie. She isn’t unfit as a mother. You are. You are unfit as a mother and a wife. I know that you had Bridget’s paternity test changed no matter what lies you tell. I know it here. He touched his chest, “In my heart. So now I have the same fate that Ridge had all those years ago. I had to lose the daughter I loved very much.” Tears formed in his eyes. “The pain that we’ve gone through nobody should have to go through. It was unescasarry. Bridget would have had the family she deserved but you felt that she was expendable.”
“ How many times do I have to tell you. I didn’t do this. The hospital did this. They messed up. They are only investigating me because they don’t want to look like the fools they are.”
“ You’ve got your story all worked out, don’t you. And if I didn’t know better I’d almost believe you. But…” He leaned closer into her face that their noses almost touched. “But. I don’t. I know that you had that test changed. The woman that I once loved who I cared about is gone. In her place is a sick bitter woman who let her vendetta against Brooke destroy her son, her husband and her granddaughter. It’s Bridget who has suffered the most. She lost her father not once but twice. That alone is unforgivable.” He reached into his pocket and took out the papers. “ Your days of manipulating and hurting the members of this family is now over. Stephanie your reign of terror has come to an end.” He threw the papers down on the coffee table.
“What are those?” She asked afraid for the firs time in her life. Eric had a look in his eyes that she never had seen before. She picked up the papers. Glancing at them it only took a minute for her to read the words dissolution of marriage. “Eric.” All of the color drained out of her face. Her throat became dry and painful.“ You can’t possibly mean this.”
“ Oh. I’ve never been more serious about anything in my life. You see now that I’ve finally seen the light. Seen you for what you are. It disgust me to know that for years I allowed you to lead me around by my nose like a fool. Those times are over. As you can see there are the divorce papers.”

 

 

Bridget took another slice of pepperoni and cheese pizza. “This is good.”
Thomas took a bite of his pizza. “Hot!” he spit the morsal out.
Bridget took it from him. “Be careful.” She blew on his pizza.
Taylor who was dealing with twins felt a sense of pride seeing Bridget with her children.
“Thanks Bridget. You are a blessing. Especially with your father gone.”
“He went to see Dylan.”
Taylor looked slightly uncomfortable. “Yes, he’s missed him.”
“ Well, you are welcome. It’s kind of cool helping out.” She handed Thomas back his pizza.
“ I’m going to miss you guys.” She said whisfully.
Taylor wet her lips with her tounge. “Well maybe you don’t have to. Your father and were thinking that maybe you’d want to spend the night.”
Bridget’s eyes brightened.“ Really?”
“ Yes. And in the morning maybe we could convince your mom to come up with a good schedule so you’ll be here part of the time.”
“ I don’t know how she’d feel about that.”
Taylor covered Bridget’s hand with her own. “I’m not thinking about what Brooke wants right now. I’m thinking about you and your father. The time you’ve missed. Surely your mother would want you to get to know us and spend time with us as a family. The questions is, what is it that you want Bridget?”

Brooke stepped out of her bathroom securing the ivory robe around her. Caspian was standing out the balcony watching the rain wearing nothing but a towel. She and Caspian had gone upstairs for fear of being caught. After another round of glorious lovemaking they had showered together. However, IT was still there. The something in the back of her mind that let her know that all wasn’t well. He had been quiet, too quiet and almost distant with her. It had been the same way before he had gone. Something was wrong. “Caspian.”
He turned to her and held out his hand. She moved toward him loving the feel of his arms as they pulled her into the warm of his body. A small smiled formed on her lips as she felt his erection press against her silk clad bottom. “Yes sweetheart.”
She turned into his arms. “ Something is bothering you and I want you to tell me what it is.” His body tensed letting her know that she was correct.
He turned away from her walking back into her bedroom. “Everything is fine.”
“ Don’t do that. Don’t lie to me.” She said as she followed.
“ I’m not…”
“ I deserve better than that. I’m not a fool.”
“ I certainly don’t think that you are.”
“ You must if you think that I can’t tell that something’s wrong. That I can’t feel the distance between us. You are here but something is pulling you away from me.”
“Nothing is pulling me away.”
Brooke was disappointed and hurt. Deeply. “ Caspian. There is something wrong and I can feel it. Something is going on with you.” She sat down at the Windor Bench at the end of her bed. “Romantic hide aways and mind blowing sex can’t hide the fact that there is something going on. Obviously its something that you don’t want to share with me.” Caspian saw the hurt in her eyes. She was perceptive. He ought to have known that she would have sensed his change. For once he didn’t know what to say. He didn’t want to do this anymore. He didn’t want the secrets between them. “ I love you. You know that. But I don’t want part of you. I want all of you.”
“You have all of me.” He sat down next to her.
“ No I don’t. I have what you allow me to see. But there are parts of you that you hide. Secrets. Things you don’t want to share with me. That isn’t fair and it sure isn’t healthy.” She pulled away from him afraid that if she let him touch her her body would betray her and they’d end up in bed.” She pointed to the bed. “ Is that all we are good for? Raw hot sex?”
Caspian flinched. How could she say that? It was more that sex. “You know better than that.” He said angrily.
“ Most of the times I do. But other times I don’t not when you shut down. You take this trip all of a sudden to figure out something but what? You go to Italy to deal with some family emergency but what? You never mention any of your family except your sister whom I’ve met two times but without you. I’ve only met one of your friends. Not to mention you keep your past secret.”
“ I’m complicated. You knew that when we got involved.” He said with anger flashing in his eyes. He wanted to protect her. He didn’t want to go down this road.
“ Yes, I did. But I thought as time went on I’d learn more about you. I know that you love me. You’d protect me..”
“ With my life.” He said with all conviction.
“ That isn’t enough. Rick and I talked about you but when he started asking questions I couldn’t answer them. Things that a woman should know about her lover. The entire time we’ve been together I’ve opened up to you. About my past and history but you’ve haven’t given me very much to go on.”
“ I’ve given you more than I’ve ever given anybody. I told you about my life with Lark and my sister’s horrible history. Secrets that nobody knows.” He said with emotion in his voice. “I’ve told you about my love and my lost.”
Brooke moved toward him. She stood while he sat looking up at her. “I know you have. I love that you can do that but I need more. I need to know everything. I need to be a part of all aspects of your life. I need meet your friends and family. To share in your accomplishments and triumphs and in your pain. To be a part of your life like you’ve been in mine.You’ve been there for me. Why can’t I be there for you. I’m strong. Let me love you. Let me stand by you.”
Her words touched him. He couldn’t help but to remember when Lark had uttered something similar. She had asked for the one thing that he couldn’t give, total honesty. His relationship was different with Brooke. He wanted nothing between them. He wanted everything. Caspian rubbed her thighs slowly against the softness of her robe. “I want you to stand by me. I don’t mean to hurt you.”
“ I know. But I have to know what’s going on in your life. The good along with the bad.”
Caspian pulled Brooke into his lap. His bottom of his chin touched the top of her head. “There things in my life that I’m afraid that you wouldn’t approve of.” He whispered.
Brooke couldn’t think of anything he could do that she’s turn away from hime. Caspian had been there for her more than anyone. For years Ridge had been the love of her life but every time she needed him to put her first, he had let her down. He hadn’t loved her enough to fight for her. Caspian was different. He had been the man in her live who had loved her enough to stand by her, fight for her and protect her.
“ There is nothing that you can’t tell me. Nothing about your past that would upset me. Hell you’ve looked at mine and haven’t passed judgement. I love you. So, please tell me what’s wrong.”
Caspian closed his eyes, pulled her tighter against him. “Isabelle lied to me.”
“About what?” Brooke hadn’t expected that.
“Lark.” Caspian answered honestly.
“Lark.” That answered at least a few of her questions. His mind had been on his wife. No wonder he had been distant. “Caspian I know that you loved Lark very much. I’ve accepted that. You shouldn’t feel that you should hide your feelings or thoughts about her from me. I certainly can’t hide my past from you.” She gave him a reassuring squezze. “So what did Isabelle lie to you about?”
Caspian was silent. Brooke wondered if he was going to tell her when he finally spoke.
“ Lark had a sister. I didn’t know about her. I don’t think that Lark did either.
“ A sister. Why happened to her?”
“How they got separated? Why she wasn’t raised with Lark? I’m not sure of the entire story although I’m investigating it. But Bella knew about it. She never said a word.”
“ Maybe she thought it would open wounds.”
“ That isn’t the point Brooke. Bella and I have always had honestly between us. Always no matter what. For such a long time, she was the only person that I could totally trust. for her to cover up something she knew was important I….” He stopped as if he were afraid that he had said too much. “Bella should have come to me with this information.”
“ But what difference does it make.”
He fingered a strand of her hair. “ It makes all the difference in the world.”

“You can’t possibly mean this.” Stephanie said to Eric.
“ Oh. But I do.”
“ Eric please. You are overreacting.”
“ Overreacting? I think for the first time in my life I’m reacting normally. You see normal people don’t ship people’s family away to get rid of them. Nor do they bully or blackmail their children into marrying a teenaged girl who isn’t right for them.”
“ I did that for our grandchild.”
“ Nor do they continue to attack people physically.” Eric said ignoring her pervious statement. “ You’ve done so many things in the past and I’ve forgiven you. Somehow I thought that if I stood by you that you’d change. That you’d see you were love and you’d stop obsessing about Brooke. But you can’t, can you?”
“ That woman is out to ruin my family.”
Eric shook his head with regret. “No you’ve done that all by yourself. The truth is that this family isn’t as important to you as sticking it to Brooke. Even when she’s moved on all you can think about is hurting her. Your hate is greater than your love.”
Stephanie reached out to him. But he recoiled. “That isn’t true. I love you.” Tears began to fill her eyes. “ Our marriage mean everything to me. You can’t mean to end it.”
Eric wiped away at Stephanie’s tears. “Look at that. The first real sign of emotion that I’ve seen in such a long time from you. He caressed her face for a moment before his hands dropped away. “But I’m sure that the moment you think that I’m not looking you’ll be back to controling, manipulating and hurting the people you claim to love. I’m not going to give you a chance to hurt anyone else.” Eric looked at her with distain. “Your days are hurting the people I love and care about are over. Just like our marriage.
“ I’m not going to let you do this. This is insane. We aren’t getting a divorce. That’s the end of it.” She snapped.
“ You don’t have to sign the papers. I’ll still submit them anyway. It doesn’t matter how much it will cost or how long it will take. Don’t worry. I’ll let you have the house. I don’t want to live anywhere with memories of you. I’ll do anything it takes to get you out of my life and our children’s lives..”
“ Our children’s lives. I’m their mother. They will stand by me.”
“Will they? Thorne doesn’t want anything to do with you neither does Felicia. As for Kristen, you’ve never been close.”
“Ridge. I’ll have Ridge.”
“You think so? It will be only a matter of time before the police will get all the evidence that they need and then Ridge will see the truth. He will finally see what I see now. TThat you will scarfice your family and their happiness for your own wants and needs. I remember how happy our son was but you never could see it. Brooke would made him a good wife. But you never gave her the chance. You destroyed their family. You hurt your granddaughter. His daughter. Do you think he’ll easily forgive you for the years that he’s lost. Especially now that she’s sick? I will never forgive you for the pain that you caused her. I hope to God nobody does.” He turned to leave.
“ Eric don’t do this.” She begged. “You don’t mean it. You don’t mean this.”
Eric strode away ignoring her pleas and cries. “Eric. Please.” He went to the front door and then he was gone. Stephanie tried to follow but she got caught up in the rain. The rain mingled with her tears. “No! Please don’t leave me Eric.” Her legs crumbled and down she went. The rain pelted against her stinging her skin. But she didn’t care. She had just lost the thing she loved most than anything. She had lost her husband.


“No tell him I’ll see him tomorrow. No. Rearrange the schedule, the Sheik is an important client of ours. He buys all of his wives Forrester Original, we will make arrangements to have tea. No, just Thorne and I will be needed. With his new responsibilities it will do him good to get to know Akmid personally. Alright. Bye.” Brooke hung up the phone.
“ Sorry.”
“ It’s alright. I know what those late night phone calls are like.”
“ Is Lark’s sister the reason you went to London?”
“ Yes.” He answered honestly. “ I got a hunch about her and wanted to talk to Pharren to see if she knew anything about her.”
“ Pharren?”
“ Samuel’s niece and Lark’s cousin.”
“ Did she?”
“ No. She claims she didn’t but even if she did she wouldn’t want to admit to another child by Samuel.”
“ Why not?’
“ Because of Huntington Press. Samuel left the majority stock to Lark who died and bequeathed them to me. I had no interest in that company. He explained. “ So I signed over my stock to her. She had been running the company anyway. However if Lark’s sister were ever to fight legally she’d win since the stock would have belonged to her. At the time that I gave Pharren the stock I had no idea about the sister.”
Brooke could see this becoming a legal mess. “How did you find out about the sister?”
“ Actually it was something my mother said. She apperantly knew because she hinted at it. Lark I believe, was beginning to investigate her sister’s wherabouts when she died. My mother must have passed the information to my sister. Bella never said a word to me about it.For her to know something like this and play me for a fool isn’t like her yet she did.” There was an undercurrent of anger in his voice.
Brooke left for Caspian. His relationship with his sister was very important to him. “I’m sure she didn’t mean to hurt you. Maybe she wanted to protect you.”
“ From what?”
“ From a woman who may ended up reminding you of Lark. From painful memories of a time you may wish to have forgotten.”
Caspian scoffed. “Believe me, that wasn’t it.”
“ Then what was it? Why did she do it and why is this sister so important to you?”
His dark passionate eyes found her golden ones. He took her hands in his. “Brooke the reason Lark’s sister is important to is …” Before Caspian finish the phone rang again. Brooke looked down to see Ridge’s number on the phone. “It’s Bridget.” She answered the phone. Caspian half listened to Brooke as she talked to her daughter. This was the opening that he needed to tell her the truth, the whole truth. His stomach was in knots and his head was pounding. There had to be complete honestly between them. Brooke hung up the phone and turned toward Caspian. “Brooke there is something..”
“I have to go.” Brooke said quietly interrupting him. “ It’s Bridget. They are back and she’s going on about something about staying at Ridge’s for couple more days or something. I need to find out what this about because I didn’t agree to that. She’s mad at me, as you know and I think she’ll try to manipulate Ridge into letting her see Scott.”
“ I thought that he agreed with you?”
“ He did the last time I checked.” Brooke said taking off her robe and pulling on a pair of black panties. “But Bridget can get to him.”
“ Do you want me to go with you?” He offered.
“ No. I’ll handle this myself.” She put on a strapless bra and took out a black pair of pants and halter. “ I’m just sorry that this interrupted our conversation.”
“ It’s okay.”
“ No. It’s not.” She came toward him. “ You were opening up about Lark’s sister. I don’t want you to forget where we were I want to continue this conversation.”
He caressed the side of her face. “We will. I promise you.” He looked sad.
“ Caspian. I know that you feel that Bella let you down. But I think that you should talk to her. You love her. She’s more than your sister. She’s your friend. Right now you feel like she betrayed you by not being honest but there may have been a good reason. Sometimes people are dishonest with the people they love because they don’t want to hurt them. I’m sure Bella didn’t mean to hurt you. She’s very loyal to you.” Brooke kissed him lightly. “Thank you.”
He blinked. “For what?”
“ For having the honesty to tell me what was bothering you. It’s a good start.” Brooke put on her top and pants. It wasn’t until after she brushed her hair quickly that she gave him her attention again. “You know. You don’t have to hide anything about Lark from me. I’d like to hear about her. I’d liked to hear about her sister. I’d love to be there when you meet her .I want you to share things about her with me. For instance Lark’s pictures. I want to know about the woman you loved. I want to know everything. The good, the bad and the ugly.” She pulled his head down toward hers before she kissed slowly on the lips. “I love you.”
Caspian wrapped his arms around her. He hugged her closely to him. “ I promise you one thing. You will know. Everything. Everything there is to know about me. My family. My past. My secrets. You’ll have to patience when it comes to my family, they aren’t like yours.”
“ I have a feeling that nobody’s family could be more crazy than mine.” Brooke picked up her purse. She gave him a quick kiss “I’ll call you when I get home.”
“Alright. Maybe tomorrow we can have dinner with Roberto and his wife that way you can get to meet some of my friends since we have to postpone the dinner before.”
“ I’d like that.”.
“ After that you and I could have talk about my past. What I’ve been through my life and marriage to Lark.”
Brooke smiled. He was trying. “I’d love that.” He watched her as she left her room. He looked at the bed they had shared knowing that it may very well be the last time they would share it. Tomorrow would be the night. He had gambled and lost. It was now time to pay the pipper he couldn’t wait any longer. If Bridget hadn’t called he would have told her tonight. But fate, as usual stepped in. There was only one thing to do. Deal with his lying sister.

Charlie was resting her head on Storm’s shoulder watching the movie when the doorbell rang. She left Storm to find Ridge standing on the front door. “Ridge.” Her face turned ashen.
“ Hey Charlie. Is Morgan here? I want to see my son.” He walked into the living room.
Charlie had been dreading this moment. She had yet to hear from her sister. She hadn’t called Ridge. He had already been dealing with the issue of Bridget. She had honestly hoped that Morgan would have returned before he came back.
“ Ridge we need to talk.”
“Okay but where is my boy?”
Tears started to fill up Charlie’s eyes. Ridge was floored. He had never seen this side of her. Naturally he was concerned. “Charlie.” He caressed her face lightly. “What’s wrong?”
Storm came out of the bedroom and saw Ridge touching Charlie. Insantly he was pissed. As usual, Ridge had his hands on some other woman that wasn’t his wife. Ridge turned to see Storm and dropped his hand from Charlie’s face. “Storm.”
“ Forrester.” Storm came to stand next to Charlie who looked worried. He put his arm around her.
“ What are you doing here?” He looked at Charlie with slight understanding. “ I hope that you aren’t stupid enough to get involved with this guy.”
“ Ridge, I think that you should shut up for once and listen to Charlie. She has something to tell you.”
“What?”
“Ridge, it’s about Dylan.”
Noting the ominus tone, he gave his full attention to Charlie. “What happened to my son. Is he hurt?”
“ No. He isn’t hurt. Nothing like that.”
Ridge let out a sigh of relief. “ Good. You scared me.”
“I didn’t mean to do that belive me. But you see, Dylan isn’t here.”
“ Oh.. okay. I’ll just come back later. Tell your sister I want to see my son.”
Charlie shook her head. “I’m sorry. I can’t do that. You see Morgan’s gone.”
“ Gone? Gone where?”
“ I don’t know.”
” What do you mean you don’t know. You are supposed to be looking after her!” Ridge thundered.
Storm took a protective step in front of Charlie. “Watch how you talk to her. She’s been through enough without you getting on her. Unlike you she’s been the one who has been dealing with Morgan and your son day in and day out. While you’ve been dealing with your wife, not to mention your sick family.”
Ridge pointed a long finger at Storm. “ You stay out of this Storm.”
“ The hell I will. You can’t come in here in her home yelling at her like this.”
Charlie put a restraining hand on Storm’s arm. “It’s alright. He’s upset.”
“ It’s not alright. I’ve seen how he treats women. Taylor. Not to mention my sister. He likes to lord over them.”
“ You are just upset Storm because Taylor wouldn’t even consider your pitiful proposal year ago. I’m sure that once Charlie here spends enough time with you, she’ll be smart enough to kick you to the curb as well.” Ridge’s nostrils flared. “So are you telling me that Morgan up and disappeared today.”
“ No. I’m not. Morgan got upset me.”
“ About what?’
“ I took Dylan over to spend time with Brooke and Little Eric.”
“ So?”
“ So she was upset. She was really mad because I knew about Bridget being your daughter. She was furious that you took all of your children on a ski trip including Bridget but left Dylan. And she was irate with Brooke. When she saw Brooke holding Dylan, she lost it. She called her foul names. Blamed her for her firing. She took Dylan and stormed out.”
“ The woman was like a mad woman Ridge.” Storm explained. “Charlie didn’t mention had she ripped her to shreads.”
“ She just wasn’t thinking clearly Storm.” Charlie said feeling very guilty.
“So what are you trying to say?” Ridge asked.
“Morgan wanted to strike out and hurt me. Maybe you too. So she took Dylan.”
“ What do you mean she took Dylan?” Ridge gave them a thunderous look. “Where is my son!”

 

 

It didn’t take long for Brooke to arrive at Ridge and Taylor’s mansion. Katherine who greeted her warmly let her in. Brooke waited for Bridget in the main living room. She wandered to the fireplace to pick up a new picture of Bridget and Ridge skiing. Brooke felt a sense of warmth radiate through her body. Taylor came in the room holding a book that she had been reading to find Brooke looking at a family photo. “What are you doing here?” Taylor snatched the photo out of Brooke’s hand.
Brooke rolled her eyes at Taylor’s gesture. “I don’t have time for this today. I’m here to get my daughter.”
“ I prefer that you call from now on when you decide to come to my home. Better yet wait outside for her.”
“ You’ve got to be kidding if you think that I’m going to sit outside and wait for my daughter. I think that the mountain air is seriously getting to you.”
“No. I think that I’m thinking clearly for the first time.” Taylor crossed her arms in front of her. “This is MY home and I don’t want you here. You’ve committed acts against my family. I don’t want you anywhere near me or my children.”
“ I’ve committed acts against your family? Are delusional or do you really believe that psychobabble that you are spewing? You dragged your feet about getting your children tested to save my daughter. The only reason that you even agreed is because I forced your hand. I wouldn’t have done it if you hadn’t been a selfish bitch who didn’t care about my daughter’s welfare.”
“ I happen to care a great deal about Bridget.”
“ Ridge may believe that but I don’t. I think that you don’t want to rock the boat with your husband so you play niceties with my daughter but had you given a damn about her you would have complied before being forced. I didn’t threaten your family. You did. Don’t expect me to feel sorry for you.” Brooke turned and headed toward the front foyer. Don’t worry Taylor, tomorrow you hold up your end of your bargain and I’ll hold up mine. You’ll have your letter to do whatever you wish. Your secret will be save with me. But always know that the halo you like to shine so brightly on your head is tarnished. You are no better than me. In fact, you are worse. You pretend to be something always afraid and desperate that you’ll get caught. Afraid that the truth and the light will show you for who you are. Me, on the other hand. I never pretend to be something other than who I am. I shine with all of my faults, my mistakes for the world to see. Maybe that’s the thing that bothers more than anything. That even though I’m flawed people still love me an support me especially Ridge.”
Brooke’s words struck Taylor at the core. How dare Brooke out of all people think that she was better than her? The woman was a slut. A bad mother a blackmailier who would try her best to destroy her family without little remorse. Her fist clinched. Oh how she hated that smug bitch with all of her heart. She wanted to strike out and hurt Brooke just as she had hurt her. “You think that he’d support you if he knew that you were blackmailing me?”
“ Do you think that he’d support you if he knew that you’d slept with James. Or that it took blackmail to get you to try to save my daughter’s life.” Brooke said with a condescending smile. “No. I don’t think that he’d be in such a rush to renew your vows them, would he.” Brooke sighed. “ I’ve got more important things to do than to sit and argue with you. I’m going to get Bridget.” Brooke turned giving Taylor her back.
Taylor stormed toward Brooke grabbing her hard by the arm. “ You aren’t to get her.”
“ What?”
“ Bridget needs consistency in her life. She needs someone she can count on. She needs two parents who love her and support.”
“She has that.” Brooke said shaking hard to get away from Taylor’s hard grip. Are you losing your mind get off me!” She pushed away.
“ No, she doesn’t. But she will. Ridge and I will see that she has it.”
“What are you saying?”
“ I’m saying that Bridget is my daughter now. I’m going to look after and be the kind of mother to her that you never could be.” Brooke looked at Taylor a full minute. Her words sunk in. Brooke advanced on Taylor who for the first time looked a little frightened. “Let me get one thing straight. I am Bridget’s mother not you. You don’t make any decisions regarding my daughter in any way.”
“ We will see about that when Ridge gets back because he agrees totally with me. Bridget needs a two-parent home. Time with a real family with people who have time for her. Not someone who is a poor excuse for a mother. Bridget needs a real role model someone she can look up to.”
“ And you think it’s you?”
Taylor nodded “Anyone is better than you. Surely the courts would see it that way. A woman with my history. A celebrated doctor and mother of three willing to offer Bridget a home with love and affection. Compared to you I’m the perfect mother. Just look at you. You sell sex on a stick have gone through the family like a rolling mattress, not to mention that you had no idea who Bridget’s father was. I’m sure that alone will see that Ridge and I get custody of Bridget.” Taylor gave Brooke a smug smile. “Don’t worry you’ll get the weekends for visitation.”
Brooke world began to spin. Out of all the things that she thought Taylor would do this was the most underhanded thing ever. “ You bitch.” She hauled off and slapped Taylor as hard as she could. Taylor’s head rocked the side. Her eyes sprayed wide. She touched her stinging cheek. Brooke’s eyes became dark with angry. “ Let me tell you something right here and now. I’ve fought much bigger fish that you for less. This is MY daughter we are talking about. If I can bring Stephanie down what does that say about you? If you even think of making a move like the one you’ve described there won’t be anything left of you for Ridge or anyone else to identify when I get through.”
“Is that a threat?” Taylor said with little conviction.
“ No. It’s a promise. No get the hell out of my way.” Brooke shoved past Taylor to go upstairs.

Taylor was still shaking when Ridge came through the front door. “Oh Ridge.” She ran to him. Ridge looked at his wife. She was close to tears.
“Doc, what’s wrong.”
“ It’s Brooke.”
“ Logan?”
“ Yes, Ridge please you’ve got to make her leave.”
Ridge saw a bright red mark of a palm print of Taylor’s face. “What happened.”
“ She hit me.”
“ What? Logan wouldn’t…” Ridge voice trailed off when he saw the look on his wife’s face. “What happened?”
Taylor was a little scared. Honestly she wouldn’t have said anything but Brooke pushed and pushed her. “ I told her that I thought that Bridget might be better off here with us.” Ridge’s eyes widened. “ Oh Doc…”
“ I didn’t mean to say anything But Bridget was so happy and Brooke has ignored that. Bridget needs us right her. You are her father and she was stolen from you. Brooke of course took it the wrong way and she hit me.” Ridge knew that Brooke was on edge lately but that didn’t mean that she had the right to attack his wife. He kissed Taylor.
“ I’m sorry. Doc.”
“ No I am. I know that we said that we’d table this to later. I’m really sorry.”
“ What’s done is done. I’ll try to calm Logan down.” Ridge paused. “God, this isn’t what I needed now with everything else.” Ridge sighed. First, this problem with Morgan and now this. He looked at Taylor. He knew that she had meant well but now with everything going on Brooke was going to be pissed. It might be a while until she let Bridget come back. Ridge was caught. He had lost his son and he wasn’t going to lose his daughter. Both he and Bridget had been cheated. Brooke was going to have to understand that. Before he didn’t want to rock the boat, but now knowing that Dylan was gone, he was forced to admit he had to demand his rights.

Ridge found Brooke and Bridget in the bedroom that Bridget chose to be her own. Brooke was standing while Bridget was pacing back and forth. “I don’t want to go.”
“ I’m not interested in what you want right now Bridget. It’s time for you come home.”
“ This is my home too.”
“Yes, I’m sure it will become home to you too but for tonight it’s time that you go to the home you were raised in.”
“ Why can’t I stay here?”
“Because I’m your mother and you belong with me. Did you honestly think that telling me that you were going to simply stay here would be fine?”
Bridget was frustrated. Her mother tried to control everything. “ It was only for one night. I want to spend more time with my father.”
Brooke counted to ten mentally. She didn’t want to argue with Bridget who was already flustered. “Listen. I understand…”
“ No you don’t. You don’t understand that I’ve been cheated because if you did you would let me stay here for a least another night. But all you can think about is what you want.”
“ What?”
“ You are upset because I’m becoming close with Taylor. You are jealous. She told me that you’d be upset about me staying. But I told her that you’d understand but SHE was right.”
Ridge had heard enough. He opened the door. “Bridget.”
Bridget’s face lit up. “Dad.” He hugged her tightly. “Hey honey.”
He turned to Brooke who didn’t look happy to see him. “Logan.” He said sternly.
“ Don’t ever start. I’ve had enough with your wife downstairs.”
Bridget turned on the charm“ Dad. Can you talk to mom. I want to spend the night here and she won’t let me. Tell her that I can.”
“ Bridget, although your father has full right to tell you what to do, he doesn’t dictate to me. I’m your mother. When it comes to your welfare. I am first, and last in all the decision making.”
Bridget frowned. “ You aren’t being fair.”
“ Life isn’t fair. Learn that now.”
“ Brooke that’s enough.”
She raised an eyebrow at him. “Really.”
“Lets not do this here in front of Bridget. Lets go downstairs and talk. Okay.”
Brooke looked at her daughter. Bridget shoot her any angry look. Shaking her head she realized that he was right. Doing this in front of her daughter would only anger her more. Still, it stung Brooke, the things that Bridget had said. She loved her daughter. She had protected her against Taylor yet her daughter saw Ridge’s wife as a saint. Funny how things changed. “Alright. I think you are right. Bridget doesn’t need to hear this.” Brooke left the room and followed Ridge downstairs. Taylor was waiting in the living room. Ridge moved next to her. He noticed the very cold look on Brooke’s face. Gone was the warmth that normally radiated from it. What in the world had happened? He knew that Brooke and Taylor didn’t like each other. Taylor had been very clear about not wanting Brooke in the house but that was unreasonable since there was Bridget. Bridget should have been calming element between the two of them yet she wasn't. The undercurrent of hate filtered between them two. Never had things been this bad before.
“So, Ridge. Tell me what in the hell do you think you are doing?”
“ That’s funny Logan because I was going to ask you the same question.”

 

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