Post by Mimi on Sept 28, 2006 19:12:35 GMT -5
4.1 Secrets Of Your Life
“Turn your wounds into wisdom.”
-- Oprah Winfrey
“So this is where we are going to live,” Eric asked surveying the interior of the penthouse. He stood in the open entry of the living room a few inches away from John. “This seems like a place Mom should live.” He told John smiling.
“I think so too.”
“She loves it, huh?” Eric said moving further into the apartment.
“I think so.” John crossed his arms, shifting his weight onto one leg. “How do you feel about it?” He wondered studying Eric’s traveling eyes.
“You’ve been around Mom too long Da…John. I like it.” he told him quickly as he turned awkwardly.
“I have been around Doc too long…and I’m going to sound like her a little more. Have a seat with me.” He said sitting down as he read Eric’s nervous body language. “Kid, this is me…what are you so nervous about?” John said after Eric plunked down beside him.
“I don’t know.” He said honestly. “Every since I left Salem I’ve kind of felt like I didn’t belong to anything. Do you know what I mean?”
John knew better than anyone. He put his arm around Eric’s shoulder. “I thought I was Roman Brady for a great deal of time, of course I know what it feels like not to belong.”
“That’s what I mean…my life hasn’t belonged to me in a long time. I feel like I’ve been brushed aside and forgotten about. We had a life and then he came back and said it wasn’t real.” He lowered his head. “He wanted to be my dad – but I have a dad. I always had a dad.”
“Eric believe me when I say, I know how you feel. I was there with you living that life. It was a great time, wasn’t it? When you and Sami were babies, I was the happiest I’ve ever been. You were my kids…that’s never changed for me.”
“You left us with them.”
John’s posture slackened. The strain of the past weighed heavily. He tipped Eric’s head upward to meet his eyes. “I didn’t leave you. Your mom and dad made a decision. I don’t have any rights to you.”
“Why is everyone always talking about rights?” Eric asked angrily. “What about our rights? The kids…we never had a say so in all of this.”
“You’re right, son. You didn’t have a chance to say what you wanted.”
“No, we didn’t. I didn’t want you to leave.” Eric explained plainly. “I wanted to go with you when you left the house. I didn’t know Mom and Roman.”
“So you went to Colorado?”
“I don’t know how that happened. I really don’t remember why I went there. All I know is that when that happened I felt like I’d lost so much of my own life.”
“So that’s why you turned to drugs? I can understand looking for a way to numb that pain…I know it better than anyone. But I don’t want you to do that anymore,” John advised him sternly. “Never again kid.”
“I won’t.”
“Scout’s honor.” John said holding two fingers together at his temple.
Eric chuckled at the recollection of his boy scouting days with John. “Scout’s honor.” He repeated, mirroring John’s hand movements.
John grew serious suddenly, “I’m not going anywhere. And I want to be upfront and honest with you. I love your mom. I’ll always love her. I also love her children – my children. I’m going to try very hard to have a life with her just as soon as she works out all this other stuff. I’m not giving up.” He watched Eric’s face soften. “There are a lot of things going on right now that I want to share with you…but I’ll wait for Doc to share those things. Just know that I never stopped being your dad. I’m not trying to replace Roman…but I’m always going to be here for you and your sisters.”
“Dad,” Eric spoke timidly, allowing the word to impart its intended cause, “I’m glad you’re here again.”
“Good son. I am too. It’s okay with me…if you want to call me dad. Now let’s stop all this Doc talk…we’re men son. All accounts settled,” John asked reaching to shake Eric’s hand.
“Settled.”
~~~~~
Her presence was apparition – like. She’d swayed elegantly into Marlena’s office, her beautiful dark curls draping her face, giving her an angelic – like countenance; she was dressed in an all white ensemble – a cashmere turtleneck and slacks. Her tiny feet padded in white boots.
Marlena stared unconsciously. Miranda Christopher impaled her senses without apparent provocation. She came to her senses in order to offer her a seat. “Mrs. Christopher, please take a seat. Would you like some coffee?”
“No thank you.” Her voice came melodically from her tiny mouth.
Marlena heard the southern drawl immediately; she also heard distinct European dialect, but she couldn’t reason why she recognized it. Watching Miranda closely, she pulled her tape recorder and patient file into her lap as she took the chair designated for her.
“You are a very beautiful woman.” Miranda told her unwarranted, as she watched Marlena equally enthralled. She crossed her legs and leaned forward to speak. “I’m sorry if that makes you uncomfortable.”
“Likewise…it’s fine.” Marlena said for lack of anything better. “So, tell me why you’re here Mrs. Christopher.”
“My family.” Miranda stated simply.
“What about your family?”
“I want to be reunited with them,” she said slowly, pacing her words in a syncopated rhythm.
“Did you lose them?”
“Yes. A long time ago…I lost my child.”
“I’m sorry to hear that,” Marlena said feeling a twinge of pain prick her heart. “Was the lost a result of death?”
“No…he was stolen from me when he was a boy. He was kidnapped Dr. Evans,” Miranda explained expressively, her eyes widening with grief as she described the circumstances.
Marlena listened attentively, making notes periodically; her eyes traveled uncontrollably toward Miranda’s face. She heard the words of the beautiful woman sitting across from her. The pain of loss marked each word distinctly. Love and sadness encased her beautifully descriptive language. She’d been in pain for years over the loss; Marlena knew what her pain felt like. It was that feeling that overcame her as she listened. How similar there stories had been; she had lived a life closely mirroring Marlena’s life.
“I’ve had a hard time allowing these things to remain unchanged. We all have the power to change our lives; I could now make a change. I’m afraid that I’m paralyzed by that inferior emotion called fear.”
“What do you fear?”
“That too much time has passed…maybe its too late to assume my family wants to be reunited with me. Do I have the right to unsettle the lives of people who don’t even remember who I am?”
“You’ve said so much Mrs. Christopher…but I feel like your holding back.”
“It’s my European roots…’never give too much of yourself’ is the kind of aphorisms I grew up with. My mother was born in France; I was also born there. I learned the art of goodbye as a child. Father was an American business man which meant that we traveled extensively throughout the world until I was a teenager. Goodbye is the worst thing to teach a child. It’s not a notion they understand well. Growing up to never exist is really how I would describe my childhood. I was the only child of a wealthy family. My only companions were my parents; Mama and Papa.” A mist glistened in Miranda’s soulful eyes as she spoke. Her voice remained steady. “I raised my son in the same way. He was my best friend, especially after my husband’s death.” She paused and looked at Marlena. “I’m trying to give you the full context of why I’m here, but I feel as though I’m going over board.”
“No, it’s helpful to understand your past in order to help you resolve the present.” Marlena said. She was already intrigued by her without hearing about her aristocratic roots, her flowery descriptions pulled her further in. “Tell me about your parents.”
“Mama was a beautiful woman. Artistic. Loving. She loved life fully. She lived it to a – what’s the American expression? To the hilt. Papa was a incorrigible business man who indulged me immensely. They were great parents.”
“It’s interesting that you labeled that as an American expression, don’t you consider yourself American?”
“I have no home but me…Anne Truit said that…I agree. I adapt well to whatever environment, state, or country I am in. I have no home. I reside in Louisiana. I’ve lived there longer than any other place…but its because of my granddaughter.”
Marlena’s interest piqued yet again. “Granddaughter? I was under the impression that you didn’t have any family.”
“I have her.”
“And your parents?”
“Oh, Dr. Evans they have been gone a long time now.”
“So its just you and your granddaughter.”
“Yes.” Miranda said easing back into the couch. “It’s really her that compels me to do this, to come here and try to put her life back together.”
“Has it been torn apart somehow.”
“She doesn’t even know but it was before she was even born. If you had a child, Dr. Evans, a child you didn’t know existed, would you want that child in your life – even if that child didn’t even know you existed?”
Marlena answered too quickly, “Of course I would.” She felt foolish for responding without thinking. “I’ve had my children taken away from me…I know what that’s like.” She shared with Miranda.
“Children are so very precious. They are God’s greatest redemption.”
Marlena nodded, touching the baby. “They are. They make everything so clear.”
Miranda watched her curiously, following the gentle caresses of her hand across her stomach. Her observation unnerved Marlena. “You strike me as a very maternal person, Dr. Evans.”
“Do I?”
“You do. I’m sure your children are happy…you almost remind me of Mama. There’s something about your essence.”
She twisted uncomfortably in her seat. “Thank you. Your granddaughter…” confusion colored her face. “Your son was an only child.”
”Yes.”
“This grandchild is your blood relative?”
“Yes.”
“How is that possible?”
“With God everything is possible. The wind shifts and brings things into your life that you never knew you deserved or that even existed. The reason I’m here is because of her…she’s his daughter. She doesn’t know he exists; he doesn’t know either of us exists. And beyond all of those issues is her mother – she’s unaware of the child, also.”
“Mrs. Christopher, I getting lost in translation. Where did the child come from?”
“In time Dr. Evans my story will be clear to you – not now. Our time’s up.” Miranda told her pointing at the clock on her wall.
“You’re right,” Marlena said. “I’d like to see you again.”
“I would like that, also.”
“Schedule another appointment in a couple of weeks with Chloe or sooner if your willing.”
“I’ll do just that Dr. Evans. Thank you.” She said standing and shaking Marlena’s hand. She swayed elegantly out of the door. Marlena clutched her heart. Patients often made impressions on her. Miranda Christopher imparted a dizzying interest. She wanted to know so much more than she had shared. Something unnamable moved inside of Marlena, and she knew that Miranda would be a patient she took home with her. Realizing the time, she packed up and headed out.
~~~~~~
“Mom’s going to kill you,” Eric said laughing at John’s effort at dinner. He was hanging up with the nearest pizza delivery shop when Eric and Brady had sailed into the room. “Pizza’s not healthy.”
“Says who?” John mocked lifting Brady from Eric’s back. “We like pizza, don’t we Brady?” Brady agreed with a nod into his father’s forehead. “See this is a kid who knows good food.”
“I’m not saying its not good. Mom will say otherwise. I’m proud of you.” Eric slapped John’s back.
“Thank you…at least someone appreciates my effort. Mom will be fine. As long as she’s not cooking, right?”
“Exactly.”
John let Brady loose. He ran immediately for Eric. They were becoming fast friends. “Did you find everything okay up there? I had the decorator do something things that should match your style.”
“I loved it,” Eric told him as he lifted Brady for a half-superman through the air. “Thank you.”
“Don’t mention it.” He’d wanted everything to be suitable for Marlena and the children. Nothing would be out of place. Nothing would unfamiliar. An added bonus included a nanny for Belle and by extension Brady named Chelsea.
“Mr. Black…it’s time for Brady’s bath,” Chelsea said from the top of the stairs. She was a kind looking woman with a easy manner.
“John,” he reminded her. “And he’s all yours. Dr. Evans should be home in a min. She’ll want to say goodnight to the children.”
Eric handed Brady to Chelsea. “You’re staying?”
John slapped his leg, “I didn’t even think about that…we’re falling back into patterns so easily. No…we’re going home.”
“I don’t mind. Brady and I are buds.”
“It’s not up to me kid. It’s your mother’s decision. I’m not going to push her. I’d love to stay though…you know that.”
“Yeah, I do.”
“We’ll have dinner with Doc and then head out.” He said shaking his head. “Let’s get this place picked up before your mother gets home,” he said scanning the room covered with a trail of Brady’s toys.
“I’ll get that,” John said heading to the door. “It can’t be dinner already.”
It was Avery. She stepped into the apartment, pulling him close enough to kiss him. He side-stepped after the initial shock of her forward gesture.
“Avery…my children,” he said turning around to Eric’s troubled face.
“Oh,” she said grinning. “I didn’t know you had company.”
“Can I speak with you outside,” he said dragging by her elbow to the hallway. “Why would you do that in front of my son?”
“Why haven’t you called me?”
“Avery, I’ve been meaning to do that…it’s just been a hectic time.”
“Don’t tell me that, I know your schedule John. You’ve been wrapped up in Marlena’s life. I’m confused about this – you were very upset with her and now she’s moved into the penthouse.”
“Avery, you sound like a jealous school girl. This isn’t about Doc. I don’t appreciate you showing up like this.”
“I don’t appreciate your new attitude.”
John sighed. He decided to try a different approach. “I’m very sorry I’ve been neglectful. I really am. I’ve been trying to work things out with Marlena.”
“I see.”
“We’ll talk.”
“Dinner?” Avery asked hopeful.
“Yes,” he said dejectedly. In perfect timing, Marlena stepped out of the elevator. She walked to John.
“Good evening.” She said eyeing Avery. “You must be Avery Chase.”
“I am.” Avery confirmed straightening her posture rigidly. “It’s a pleasure to meet you Dr. Evans.”
“I’m sure. Hello John,” she said turning toward John, “am I interrupting some kind of business?”
“No.” Avery said abruptly. “I wanted to see John.”
“Oh.”
“I hope you like the penthouse. I thought it was a nice choice for John. I picked it out a couple of weeks ago when John was looking for a new place for he and Brady.”
Marlena lifted her perfectly arched eyebrow and pursed her lips tightly together. “It’s lovely.”
“I think so too.”
“I’m going to say hello to the children.” Marlena said excusing herself from the uncomfortable circle. John stood speechless and completely unable to fathom Avery’s incredible show of bravado.
“Good night.” Avery said to Marlena’s back. “I’m sorry if I upset her.”
“She’ll be fine,” John told her calmly. “I think you should go.”
“Yes, that’s best isn’t it. Don’t forget to call me.”
John nodded as he watched her climb into the elevator. He found some of the composure that Avery had struck wayward before entering the apartment again. Marlena and Eric were seated together on the couch. He saw the avoidance immediately.
“Eric, I’m sorry about that son.”
“It’s okay.” Eric said with the reprieve of his tender smile. “I was telling Mom how much I love the new place. You did a good job.”
His attempt to relieve the tension didn’t go unnoticed by his mother. She finally looked at John with a pained expression.
“Doc, she showed up…I didn’t have any control.”
“John, I don’t want to discuss this now.” She said pointedly eyeing Eric to remind him of his presence.
“We’re going to discuss this later.” He said emphatically.
“I’m sure we will. Where are the children?”
“Upstairs with Chelsea.” Eric said taking her hand to lead her upstairs. “Everything is awesome up here Mom.”
“Good honey, I’m glad you like it. You feel comfortable here?”
“Yes,” he said leading her down the hallway to Belle’s room.
John stayed downstairs. He ran his fingers through his hair. He hated the look in her eyes, the distrust that he was trying to erase. It amazed him how transparent she always was when it came to him. He had been unfair to Avery. He meant to rectify the situation. He had been so caught up that Avery had been an afterthought; Marlena and their family were his first priority. He would settle things with Avery.
He answered the door again at the urging of the doorbell, expecting to see the pizza delivery man. He was shocked to see Roman and another uniformed cop beside him.
“I’m here to serve you with this restraining order.” The uniformed cop said handing John the piece of paper. “You are ordered to stay 500 feet away from Mrs. Marlena Brady.”
“What?” John asked bewildered.
“You are in violation of this order. I’m going to have to ask you to vacate the premises, sir.”
Roman stood silently in the background scanning the apartment.
“Who ordered this?”
“I did…you’re stalking my wife.” Roman informed him. “I don’t want you anywhere near my wife or children.”
“This order,” the cop continued, “also includes said children.”
“You can’t do this,” John said defiantly. “Marlena would never agree to this.”
“She doesn’t have too. I’m her husband.”
“You son of a bitch.”
“Mr. Black, please. Don’t make this into an altercation.”
“I’m not the man who should stay away from her. You’ve got the wrong one officer.”
“Well you can take that issue up with the court. I’m simply here to do my job. If you will please vacate the premises.”
“I have children who live here. My son and daughter are sleeping upstairs. What am I supposed to tell them?”
“Black, when is this fantasy going to end? Those are my children.” Roman told him angrily.
“Please Captain Brady. Mr. Black, it’s a court order.”
“A court order?” Marlena said taking the steps two at a time. “What’s going on?”
“A restraining order,” John said lifting the piece of paper. “I have to stay 500 feet away from you and the children.”
Marlena snatched the paper. “I didn’t ask for this.” She said looking angrily at Roman. “Roman, you can’t do this.”
He ignored her pleading.
“Please Mr. Black.”
“Everything you’ve done to me…” Roman said clenching his mouth.
“I can’t believe you’re doing this Roman.”
“I have to get my son,” John said realizing he was unable to fight the piece of paper. “Can I do that?”
“Leave Brady,” Marlena said coming to his side. “Don’t worry about this. We’ll take care of this in the morning. He’s asleep and I don’t want him to be afraid.” She lay her hand on his cheek. “We’ll take care of this.” Her anger forgotten in the path of Roman’s indignant behavior, she kissed him lightly on is mouth.
“Let’s go Black.”
“Doc, I love you.” John told her as he grabbed his coat.
“I love you too.” She said hugging him. She watched him walked out of the penthouse with the uniformed officer. Roman’s smugness sent a chill up her spine. He was standing in the doorway watching her. She steadied herself against the burning tears in her throat. “No matter what you do, he’s still going to be in my life. I wish you’d accept that.”
“I don’t. I never will. I’m doing this for us. I’m fighting for you. I was upset initially but I’ve realized why should he win. He’s plying you with this fancy apartment. Jewels and clothes. He’s a playboy. I’ve seen his handiwork before.”
“You don’t know what you’re talking about.”
“I know I had a life before you gave it to him. If he hadn’t badgered you into having an affair with him then we’d still be together.”
“Roman, we don’t know that.” She said still trying to give him the benefit of the doubt. “This is all unnecessary. You don’t have to try and keep John away from me…I want him to be around.”
“Doc, when you’ve come to your senses I’ll be at home. You know you don’t belong in this life.”
“Roman.” She said sadly. “You’re losing your grip on reality. You can’t make decisions for me.”
“John can’t either.” He said leaving.
Marlena closed the door. She resolved to fight harder.
“Turn your wounds into wisdom.”
-- Oprah Winfrey
“So this is where we are going to live,” Eric asked surveying the interior of the penthouse. He stood in the open entry of the living room a few inches away from John. “This seems like a place Mom should live.” He told John smiling.
“I think so too.”
“She loves it, huh?” Eric said moving further into the apartment.
“I think so.” John crossed his arms, shifting his weight onto one leg. “How do you feel about it?” He wondered studying Eric’s traveling eyes.
“You’ve been around Mom too long Da…John. I like it.” he told him quickly as he turned awkwardly.
“I have been around Doc too long…and I’m going to sound like her a little more. Have a seat with me.” He said sitting down as he read Eric’s nervous body language. “Kid, this is me…what are you so nervous about?” John said after Eric plunked down beside him.
“I don’t know.” He said honestly. “Every since I left Salem I’ve kind of felt like I didn’t belong to anything. Do you know what I mean?”
John knew better than anyone. He put his arm around Eric’s shoulder. “I thought I was Roman Brady for a great deal of time, of course I know what it feels like not to belong.”
“That’s what I mean…my life hasn’t belonged to me in a long time. I feel like I’ve been brushed aside and forgotten about. We had a life and then he came back and said it wasn’t real.” He lowered his head. “He wanted to be my dad – but I have a dad. I always had a dad.”
“Eric believe me when I say, I know how you feel. I was there with you living that life. It was a great time, wasn’t it? When you and Sami were babies, I was the happiest I’ve ever been. You were my kids…that’s never changed for me.”
“You left us with them.”
John’s posture slackened. The strain of the past weighed heavily. He tipped Eric’s head upward to meet his eyes. “I didn’t leave you. Your mom and dad made a decision. I don’t have any rights to you.”
“Why is everyone always talking about rights?” Eric asked angrily. “What about our rights? The kids…we never had a say so in all of this.”
“You’re right, son. You didn’t have a chance to say what you wanted.”
“No, we didn’t. I didn’t want you to leave.” Eric explained plainly. “I wanted to go with you when you left the house. I didn’t know Mom and Roman.”
“So you went to Colorado?”
“I don’t know how that happened. I really don’t remember why I went there. All I know is that when that happened I felt like I’d lost so much of my own life.”
“So that’s why you turned to drugs? I can understand looking for a way to numb that pain…I know it better than anyone. But I don’t want you to do that anymore,” John advised him sternly. “Never again kid.”
“I won’t.”
“Scout’s honor.” John said holding two fingers together at his temple.
Eric chuckled at the recollection of his boy scouting days with John. “Scout’s honor.” He repeated, mirroring John’s hand movements.
John grew serious suddenly, “I’m not going anywhere. And I want to be upfront and honest with you. I love your mom. I’ll always love her. I also love her children – my children. I’m going to try very hard to have a life with her just as soon as she works out all this other stuff. I’m not giving up.” He watched Eric’s face soften. “There are a lot of things going on right now that I want to share with you…but I’ll wait for Doc to share those things. Just know that I never stopped being your dad. I’m not trying to replace Roman…but I’m always going to be here for you and your sisters.”
“Dad,” Eric spoke timidly, allowing the word to impart its intended cause, “I’m glad you’re here again.”
“Good son. I am too. It’s okay with me…if you want to call me dad. Now let’s stop all this Doc talk…we’re men son. All accounts settled,” John asked reaching to shake Eric’s hand.
“Settled.”
~~~~~
Her presence was apparition – like. She’d swayed elegantly into Marlena’s office, her beautiful dark curls draping her face, giving her an angelic – like countenance; she was dressed in an all white ensemble – a cashmere turtleneck and slacks. Her tiny feet padded in white boots.
Marlena stared unconsciously. Miranda Christopher impaled her senses without apparent provocation. She came to her senses in order to offer her a seat. “Mrs. Christopher, please take a seat. Would you like some coffee?”
“No thank you.” Her voice came melodically from her tiny mouth.
Marlena heard the southern drawl immediately; she also heard distinct European dialect, but she couldn’t reason why she recognized it. Watching Miranda closely, she pulled her tape recorder and patient file into her lap as she took the chair designated for her.
“You are a very beautiful woman.” Miranda told her unwarranted, as she watched Marlena equally enthralled. She crossed her legs and leaned forward to speak. “I’m sorry if that makes you uncomfortable.”
“Likewise…it’s fine.” Marlena said for lack of anything better. “So, tell me why you’re here Mrs. Christopher.”
“My family.” Miranda stated simply.
“What about your family?”
“I want to be reunited with them,” she said slowly, pacing her words in a syncopated rhythm.
“Did you lose them?”
“Yes. A long time ago…I lost my child.”
“I’m sorry to hear that,” Marlena said feeling a twinge of pain prick her heart. “Was the lost a result of death?”
“No…he was stolen from me when he was a boy. He was kidnapped Dr. Evans,” Miranda explained expressively, her eyes widening with grief as she described the circumstances.
Marlena listened attentively, making notes periodically; her eyes traveled uncontrollably toward Miranda’s face. She heard the words of the beautiful woman sitting across from her. The pain of loss marked each word distinctly. Love and sadness encased her beautifully descriptive language. She’d been in pain for years over the loss; Marlena knew what her pain felt like. It was that feeling that overcame her as she listened. How similar there stories had been; she had lived a life closely mirroring Marlena’s life.
“I’ve had a hard time allowing these things to remain unchanged. We all have the power to change our lives; I could now make a change. I’m afraid that I’m paralyzed by that inferior emotion called fear.”
“What do you fear?”
“That too much time has passed…maybe its too late to assume my family wants to be reunited with me. Do I have the right to unsettle the lives of people who don’t even remember who I am?”
“You’ve said so much Mrs. Christopher…but I feel like your holding back.”
“It’s my European roots…’never give too much of yourself’ is the kind of aphorisms I grew up with. My mother was born in France; I was also born there. I learned the art of goodbye as a child. Father was an American business man which meant that we traveled extensively throughout the world until I was a teenager. Goodbye is the worst thing to teach a child. It’s not a notion they understand well. Growing up to never exist is really how I would describe my childhood. I was the only child of a wealthy family. My only companions were my parents; Mama and Papa.” A mist glistened in Miranda’s soulful eyes as she spoke. Her voice remained steady. “I raised my son in the same way. He was my best friend, especially after my husband’s death.” She paused and looked at Marlena. “I’m trying to give you the full context of why I’m here, but I feel as though I’m going over board.”
“No, it’s helpful to understand your past in order to help you resolve the present.” Marlena said. She was already intrigued by her without hearing about her aristocratic roots, her flowery descriptions pulled her further in. “Tell me about your parents.”
“Mama was a beautiful woman. Artistic. Loving. She loved life fully. She lived it to a – what’s the American expression? To the hilt. Papa was a incorrigible business man who indulged me immensely. They were great parents.”
“It’s interesting that you labeled that as an American expression, don’t you consider yourself American?”
“I have no home but me…Anne Truit said that…I agree. I adapt well to whatever environment, state, or country I am in. I have no home. I reside in Louisiana. I’ve lived there longer than any other place…but its because of my granddaughter.”
Marlena’s interest piqued yet again. “Granddaughter? I was under the impression that you didn’t have any family.”
“I have her.”
“And your parents?”
“Oh, Dr. Evans they have been gone a long time now.”
“So its just you and your granddaughter.”
“Yes.” Miranda said easing back into the couch. “It’s really her that compels me to do this, to come here and try to put her life back together.”
“Has it been torn apart somehow.”
“She doesn’t even know but it was before she was even born. If you had a child, Dr. Evans, a child you didn’t know existed, would you want that child in your life – even if that child didn’t even know you existed?”
Marlena answered too quickly, “Of course I would.” She felt foolish for responding without thinking. “I’ve had my children taken away from me…I know what that’s like.” She shared with Miranda.
“Children are so very precious. They are God’s greatest redemption.”
Marlena nodded, touching the baby. “They are. They make everything so clear.”
Miranda watched her curiously, following the gentle caresses of her hand across her stomach. Her observation unnerved Marlena. “You strike me as a very maternal person, Dr. Evans.”
“Do I?”
“You do. I’m sure your children are happy…you almost remind me of Mama. There’s something about your essence.”
She twisted uncomfortably in her seat. “Thank you. Your granddaughter…” confusion colored her face. “Your son was an only child.”
”Yes.”
“This grandchild is your blood relative?”
“Yes.”
“How is that possible?”
“With God everything is possible. The wind shifts and brings things into your life that you never knew you deserved or that even existed. The reason I’m here is because of her…she’s his daughter. She doesn’t know he exists; he doesn’t know either of us exists. And beyond all of those issues is her mother – she’s unaware of the child, also.”
“Mrs. Christopher, I getting lost in translation. Where did the child come from?”
“In time Dr. Evans my story will be clear to you – not now. Our time’s up.” Miranda told her pointing at the clock on her wall.
“You’re right,” Marlena said. “I’d like to see you again.”
“I would like that, also.”
“Schedule another appointment in a couple of weeks with Chloe or sooner if your willing.”
“I’ll do just that Dr. Evans. Thank you.” She said standing and shaking Marlena’s hand. She swayed elegantly out of the door. Marlena clutched her heart. Patients often made impressions on her. Miranda Christopher imparted a dizzying interest. She wanted to know so much more than she had shared. Something unnamable moved inside of Marlena, and she knew that Miranda would be a patient she took home with her. Realizing the time, she packed up and headed out.
~~~~~~
“Mom’s going to kill you,” Eric said laughing at John’s effort at dinner. He was hanging up with the nearest pizza delivery shop when Eric and Brady had sailed into the room. “Pizza’s not healthy.”
“Says who?” John mocked lifting Brady from Eric’s back. “We like pizza, don’t we Brady?” Brady agreed with a nod into his father’s forehead. “See this is a kid who knows good food.”
“I’m not saying its not good. Mom will say otherwise. I’m proud of you.” Eric slapped John’s back.
“Thank you…at least someone appreciates my effort. Mom will be fine. As long as she’s not cooking, right?”
“Exactly.”
John let Brady loose. He ran immediately for Eric. They were becoming fast friends. “Did you find everything okay up there? I had the decorator do something things that should match your style.”
“I loved it,” Eric told him as he lifted Brady for a half-superman through the air. “Thank you.”
“Don’t mention it.” He’d wanted everything to be suitable for Marlena and the children. Nothing would be out of place. Nothing would unfamiliar. An added bonus included a nanny for Belle and by extension Brady named Chelsea.
“Mr. Black…it’s time for Brady’s bath,” Chelsea said from the top of the stairs. She was a kind looking woman with a easy manner.
“John,” he reminded her. “And he’s all yours. Dr. Evans should be home in a min. She’ll want to say goodnight to the children.”
Eric handed Brady to Chelsea. “You’re staying?”
John slapped his leg, “I didn’t even think about that…we’re falling back into patterns so easily. No…we’re going home.”
“I don’t mind. Brady and I are buds.”
“It’s not up to me kid. It’s your mother’s decision. I’m not going to push her. I’d love to stay though…you know that.”
“Yeah, I do.”
“We’ll have dinner with Doc and then head out.” He said shaking his head. “Let’s get this place picked up before your mother gets home,” he said scanning the room covered with a trail of Brady’s toys.
“I’ll get that,” John said heading to the door. “It can’t be dinner already.”
It was Avery. She stepped into the apartment, pulling him close enough to kiss him. He side-stepped after the initial shock of her forward gesture.
“Avery…my children,” he said turning around to Eric’s troubled face.
“Oh,” she said grinning. “I didn’t know you had company.”
“Can I speak with you outside,” he said dragging by her elbow to the hallway. “Why would you do that in front of my son?”
“Why haven’t you called me?”
“Avery, I’ve been meaning to do that…it’s just been a hectic time.”
“Don’t tell me that, I know your schedule John. You’ve been wrapped up in Marlena’s life. I’m confused about this – you were very upset with her and now she’s moved into the penthouse.”
“Avery, you sound like a jealous school girl. This isn’t about Doc. I don’t appreciate you showing up like this.”
“I don’t appreciate your new attitude.”
John sighed. He decided to try a different approach. “I’m very sorry I’ve been neglectful. I really am. I’ve been trying to work things out with Marlena.”
“I see.”
“We’ll talk.”
“Dinner?” Avery asked hopeful.
“Yes,” he said dejectedly. In perfect timing, Marlena stepped out of the elevator. She walked to John.
“Good evening.” She said eyeing Avery. “You must be Avery Chase.”
“I am.” Avery confirmed straightening her posture rigidly. “It’s a pleasure to meet you Dr. Evans.”
“I’m sure. Hello John,” she said turning toward John, “am I interrupting some kind of business?”
“No.” Avery said abruptly. “I wanted to see John.”
“Oh.”
“I hope you like the penthouse. I thought it was a nice choice for John. I picked it out a couple of weeks ago when John was looking for a new place for he and Brady.”
Marlena lifted her perfectly arched eyebrow and pursed her lips tightly together. “It’s lovely.”
“I think so too.”
“I’m going to say hello to the children.” Marlena said excusing herself from the uncomfortable circle. John stood speechless and completely unable to fathom Avery’s incredible show of bravado.
“Good night.” Avery said to Marlena’s back. “I’m sorry if I upset her.”
“She’ll be fine,” John told her calmly. “I think you should go.”
“Yes, that’s best isn’t it. Don’t forget to call me.”
John nodded as he watched her climb into the elevator. He found some of the composure that Avery had struck wayward before entering the apartment again. Marlena and Eric were seated together on the couch. He saw the avoidance immediately.
“Eric, I’m sorry about that son.”
“It’s okay.” Eric said with the reprieve of his tender smile. “I was telling Mom how much I love the new place. You did a good job.”
His attempt to relieve the tension didn’t go unnoticed by his mother. She finally looked at John with a pained expression.
“Doc, she showed up…I didn’t have any control.”
“John, I don’t want to discuss this now.” She said pointedly eyeing Eric to remind him of his presence.
“We’re going to discuss this later.” He said emphatically.
“I’m sure we will. Where are the children?”
“Upstairs with Chelsea.” Eric said taking her hand to lead her upstairs. “Everything is awesome up here Mom.”
“Good honey, I’m glad you like it. You feel comfortable here?”
“Yes,” he said leading her down the hallway to Belle’s room.
John stayed downstairs. He ran his fingers through his hair. He hated the look in her eyes, the distrust that he was trying to erase. It amazed him how transparent she always was when it came to him. He had been unfair to Avery. He meant to rectify the situation. He had been so caught up that Avery had been an afterthought; Marlena and their family were his first priority. He would settle things with Avery.
He answered the door again at the urging of the doorbell, expecting to see the pizza delivery man. He was shocked to see Roman and another uniformed cop beside him.
“I’m here to serve you with this restraining order.” The uniformed cop said handing John the piece of paper. “You are ordered to stay 500 feet away from Mrs. Marlena Brady.”
“What?” John asked bewildered.
“You are in violation of this order. I’m going to have to ask you to vacate the premises, sir.”
Roman stood silently in the background scanning the apartment.
“Who ordered this?”
“I did…you’re stalking my wife.” Roman informed him. “I don’t want you anywhere near my wife or children.”
“This order,” the cop continued, “also includes said children.”
“You can’t do this,” John said defiantly. “Marlena would never agree to this.”
“She doesn’t have too. I’m her husband.”
“You son of a bitch.”
“Mr. Black, please. Don’t make this into an altercation.”
“I’m not the man who should stay away from her. You’ve got the wrong one officer.”
“Well you can take that issue up with the court. I’m simply here to do my job. If you will please vacate the premises.”
“I have children who live here. My son and daughter are sleeping upstairs. What am I supposed to tell them?”
“Black, when is this fantasy going to end? Those are my children.” Roman told him angrily.
“Please Captain Brady. Mr. Black, it’s a court order.”
“A court order?” Marlena said taking the steps two at a time. “What’s going on?”
“A restraining order,” John said lifting the piece of paper. “I have to stay 500 feet away from you and the children.”
Marlena snatched the paper. “I didn’t ask for this.” She said looking angrily at Roman. “Roman, you can’t do this.”
He ignored her pleading.
“Please Mr. Black.”
“Everything you’ve done to me…” Roman said clenching his mouth.
“I can’t believe you’re doing this Roman.”
“I have to get my son,” John said realizing he was unable to fight the piece of paper. “Can I do that?”
“Leave Brady,” Marlena said coming to his side. “Don’t worry about this. We’ll take care of this in the morning. He’s asleep and I don’t want him to be afraid.” She lay her hand on his cheek. “We’ll take care of this.” Her anger forgotten in the path of Roman’s indignant behavior, she kissed him lightly on is mouth.
“Let’s go Black.”
“Doc, I love you.” John told her as he grabbed his coat.
“I love you too.” She said hugging him. She watched him walked out of the penthouse with the uniformed officer. Roman’s smugness sent a chill up her spine. He was standing in the doorway watching her. She steadied herself against the burning tears in her throat. “No matter what you do, he’s still going to be in my life. I wish you’d accept that.”
“I don’t. I never will. I’m doing this for us. I’m fighting for you. I was upset initially but I’ve realized why should he win. He’s plying you with this fancy apartment. Jewels and clothes. He’s a playboy. I’ve seen his handiwork before.”
“You don’t know what you’re talking about.”
“I know I had a life before you gave it to him. If he hadn’t badgered you into having an affair with him then we’d still be together.”
“Roman, we don’t know that.” She said still trying to give him the benefit of the doubt. “This is all unnecessary. You don’t have to try and keep John away from me…I want him to be around.”
“Doc, when you’ve come to your senses I’ll be at home. You know you don’t belong in this life.”
“Roman.” She said sadly. “You’re losing your grip on reality. You can’t make decisions for me.”
“John can’t either.” He said leaving.
Marlena closed the door. She resolved to fight harder.
