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[bowman Photo Agency,Ally is looking over various pictures as Danny knocks on the door as she looks up]

Danny:(smirks as he walks over to a chair and sits down)Please dont scream.

Ally:I was not going to do that,what do you want?

Danny:Well that's nice Ally..a long time friend comes back to town after being away and you act like this towards me.

Ally:You're still a jerk huh? I am guessing that the reason you are here is because of that blonde and to rub it in my face? (looks at him with a smile like she cares)

Danny:The blonde? Oh you mean Madison?

Ally:I guess that's her name.

Danny:Playboy model looks?

Ally:(sighs)You're new toy?

Danny:Uh I guess she is but then again you never can tell if I am serious about her ....she's Sydney's sister.

(Danny looks at Ally's reaction which is pure shock)

[Wilder Modeling Agency,Madison enters the buidling wearing a black mini skirt and red tank top with black boots as she walks around as people looks at her and guys stops dead in track as she goes over to the operator]

Madison:Excuse me but could you please tell me where I could find Tess Huston?

Operator:She's the top office to your left on the second floor.

Madison:(smirks)Thanks.(turns around and walks up the steps)

[inside of Tess's office,Buck and Tess are discussing things]

Tess:Buck,I wanted to set up some time for us to be alone and try to get things back to normal and now that we have --

Buck:Tess is there anything you want to tell me?

Tess:(flashes back to the kisses that Tyler and her had previously)No there's nothing why?

Buck:(shrugs)Because lately you have been acting weird and it's just--making me think.

Tess:That I was cheating on you like you said before or--(notices Madison knocking on the door)Yes?

Madison:(comes in)Sorry I didnt mean to disturb you.(looks at Tess and Buck)

Tess:Who are you?

Madison:Oh sorry umm I'm Madison Chesterfield,you're next top model.(cocky smile)

[bowman Photo Agency,Ally gets up and looks at Danny who is looking up at her smirking]

Ally:Madison..is Sydney's sister? As in dead Sydney?

Danny:May she rest in peace.

Ally:And you're dating her? or sleeping or whatever with her?

Danny:So worried about my relationship huh?

Ally:No (sits down)it's just you pick the worst women.

Danny:So does that mean you were worster?

Ally:What do you really want?

Danny:I am actually here to ask for a loan...a loan that could help another person achieve her dreams.

Ally:Who?

Danny:Madison.

Ally:No.

(Danny looks at her then gets up and holds her face in his hands making her look directly at him)

[Wilder Modeling Agency,Tess,Madison and Buck are standing in her office]

Tess:My next top model huh? (not amused)

Madison:Do I need to repeat myself? (looks at Buck)

Buck:(amused)I dont think you do.I'm Buck Huston.

Madison:I have read about you online at the Cyber cafe,nice to meet a man who is very respected.

(Tess rolls her eyes abit as Buck smiles)

Buck:Thank you Madison so how long have you been a model?

Madison:Umm well I was in the county fair modeling contests until I was 18 then tried modeling in LA and Texas before coming to New York and of course you hear about Ford but Wilder Modeling Agency (looks at Tess)was the one I wanted.

Tess:Aww that's sweet..so do you have photos we can see?

Madison:I do but they're on my website.(notices their reactions)Not that kind of website but with the high fast tech world we live in...

Buck:Let's see them.(looks at Tess)

(Tess looks at Madison and Buck going to her computer as she is not happy)

Here is another Episode of Somerset

Episode 39

Announcer: This is Somerset

We see a shot of The Somerset Inn

We see Victoria getting ready for her date

Victoria: It will be good to see Tom again

Victoria puts on her necklace, then she picks up a picture of Julian

Victoria: We will find your killer Julian I promise!

We see a shot of Zoe sitting at a computer

Zoe: I wonder how you use these things

Zoe types on the keyboard then the computer makes a beeping sound

Zoe: They say you can find out anything on these things, I wonder if I can find out some things about Victoria Paisley

Zoe types some more

Zoe: Internet? Maybe this is what i need

Zoe clicks on the mouse

Zoe: Ok lets get started

We see a shot of The gas station

We see Kane and Leo

Leo: Your name is Kane Kurtz?

Kane: Yes, who are you?

Leo: Me?

Kane: Yes

Leo: Well

Kane: Are you a reporter?

Leo: Reporter? Oh yes

Kane: Oh

Leo: Can I ask you a few questions?

Kane: I don't know, I am in hurry

Leo: This will only take a few minutes

Kane: Ok

Leo: Let's sit down

Leo and Kane sit down at a bench in the gas station

Leo: So you are related to Stan Kurtz?

Kane: Yes

Leo: How is Mr Kurtz?

Kane: He is doing fine now, really well

Leo: Now?

Kane: Yes he was shot in the big shootout

Leo: What?

Kane: Yes

Leo: Do they know who was in charge of this Shootout?

Kane: They don't know but I think it was the mob

Leo: Tom!

Kane: Who?

Leo: Nothing, how is the rest of your family?

Kane: Fine, What do you want to talk to me about anyway?

Leo: Oh just you and your family

Kane: Why? Are you even a reporter?

Leo just looks at Kane

Commercials

We see a shot of Zoe

Zoe: Here we go

Zoe types some more

Zoe: There is something about Julian's death

Zoe reads the screen

Zoe: Grieving Girlfriend? More like lying bitch, I bet she did kill Julian

Zoe gets mad and smashes the keyboard on the desk

Zoe: And if she did, I will get her just like I did the others!

We see a shot of Victoria

Victoria: Oh Julian, I miss you

Victoria sets Julian's picture back down on the desk

Victoria: You will be at peace soon my love I promise that

Victoria stands and walks over to a chair and gets her jacket

Victoria: Now I must go meet Tom

Victoria leaves her room

We see a shot of Leo

Leo: Yes, I am a reporter

Kane: Then why do you want to talk to me?

Leo: I want to talk to you about your family, The Kurtz family are very infamous in Somerset

Kane: I would not know anything about that I have only known I was a Kurtz for a few years

Leo: Yes, I know that. How old are you son?

Kane: I am 45

Leo: Really

Leo does not speak

Kane: Are you Ok?

Leo: Oh yes, who is your mother son?

Kane: My mother

Leo: Yes

Kane: Her name is Angela, I named my daughter after her

Leo: You have a daughter

Kane: Yes, she is 1 and a half

Leo: How nice

We see Terry walk into the gas station

Leo: So you said Stan is alright

Kane: Yes, he is in the hospital, but should be OK

Kane sees Terry

Kane: Oh there is Stan's wife my aunt Terry

Leo gasps

Commercials

Announcer: And now the conclusion of Somerset

We see a shot of Zoe sitting at Tom's desk

Zoe: I will avenge your death Julian, I promise you that my love

Zoe starts to look around in Tom's desk. She finds a gun

Zoe: Ah I may need this

Zoe puts the gun in her pocket, then she sees a file that says revenge

Zoe: I wonder what this is

She then sees a the photo album

Zoe: A photo album

Zoe opens it she sees a picture of Julian

Zoe: Julian!

Zoe turns the page sees a picture that has Kurtz written under it

Zoe: The Kurtz's, The mob family?

Zoe turns the page and sees a picture of Victoria, under it is written Victoria Paisley

Zoe: Oh My, so this is her!

Zoe takes out the picture and rips it in half

Zoe: I will get you!

Zoe throws the Pieces of the picture in the garbage, then she grabs the file

Zoe: Now maybe this will tell me what Tom is up to

Zoe opens the file and begins to read

We see a shot of The Somerset Inn

We see Victoria sitting at the table

Victoria: Where are you?

We see Tom walk in

Victoria: Oh there he is

Victoria stands up

Victoria: Hello Tom

Tom: Hello

Victoria and Tom hug

Tom smiles at Victoria

We see a shot of the gas station

Kane: I will be right back

Kane walks over to Terry

Kane: Hello

Terry: Hello Kane, I was just on my way to see Stan

Kane: I see. I was just talking to a reporter

Terry: Really?

Kane: Yes over there

Terry and Kane look over at the bench and there is no one there

Kane: He was just there

Terry: Maybe he was in a hurry

Kane: I wonder where he went?

We see Leo standing outside

Leo: That was close, I can't let anyone see me yet

Leo looks around

Leo: Maybe I should. No! Not yet, I can't trust anyone yet, I can only trust Stan! And that's Who I must go see!

Leo walks away

Announcer: This Is Somerset

Announcer: Next on Somerset

We see a shot of Zoe

Zoe: He is part of the Mob?

Zoe looks at a page

Zoe: Aloriz?

We see a shot of Stan and Terry

Terry: Everything will be OK Stan

We see Leo standing outside of Stan's hospital room

Leo: Stan!

We see Molly on the Phone

Molly: No Avis

We see Avis

Avis: Yes, I will be back in Somerset tomorrow

Credits Role

Announcer: Join us again for the continuing story of Somerset

Cast List

1.Georgann Johnson As Ellen Bishop Grant

2.Marie Wallace As India Bishop Delaney

3.Nicolas Coster As Robert Delaney

4.Michael Lipton As Dr. Stan Kurtz

5.Gloria Hoye As Dr. Terry Kurtz

6.Lois Smith As Zoe Matson Cannell

7.Linda Gray As Jill Grant Farmer Timmins

8.Barry Jenner As Tony Cooper

9.Fawne Harriman As Ginger Kurtz Cooper

10.Veleka Gray As Victoria Paisley

11.Jennifer Bransford As Mary Timmins Kurtz

12.Julian Stone As Kane Kurtz

13.Judith O' Dea As Molly Ryan Scott

14.Matthew Ashford As Detective Daniel Hunter

15.Amanda Wyass As Sarah Scott

16.Matt Mulhern As David Foster

17.Sigourney Weaver As Avis Ryan

18.Tim Thomerson As Bill Scott

19.George Coe As Leo Kurtz

20.Krista Tesreau As April Davis

21.Robert Kelker-Kelly As Tiny

Guest Star

1.Ted Danson As Tom Conway

Locations in Somerset

http://this-is-somerset.blogspot.com/2006/...erset-here.html

IN THE RUBBLE OF MAISON BLANCHE:

Tony stared at his sister confused, but before Lexie could explain Marlena interrupted.

“Oh just because we’re family Tony is going to become a model citizen, is he?” Marlena said sarcastically. “Tony once thought he shared parentage of Rex and Cassie with me not to mention how we were once friends, but that didn’t stop him from hurting John over his bitterness about Kristen’s love for him or hurting me when he made me think I was the Salem serial killer or…”

“Look, I know what I’ve done,” Tony said. “And I can’t undo that. I can only tell you that I regret it. All of it. But before you send me back to prison or crucify me or whatever you’d have me do as penance for my sins could you just tell me what the hell you mean when you talk of us all being family?”

Marlena said nothing but handed over the diary to Tony.

“Is this the diary you told me about, Lexie?” Tony asked, hesitating to open it.

Lexie nodded and Tony began leafing through the pages, surprised at how well they held up from the smoke and flame in Marlena’s care.

“Oh, just spit it out already,” Anna said frantically grabbing the diary from Tony’s hands. “What is this about a son of mine and Tony’s?”

Lexie sighed.

“The reason I said we’re all family now is because E.J. is your son,” Lexie said. “And that baby that was just born to Sami and E.J. is your grandchild.”

Tony’s mouth fell agape in shock while Anna squealed with delight.

“All this time…” Tony mumbled to himself quietly. “I hated him so thinking him my brother. Why I treated him no better than Stefano did me. What he must think of me when he knows.”

But while Tony took the news with bittersweet melancholy, Anna was ecstatic.

“You mean I’m a grandmother? Marlena, we’re grandmothers together?” Anna shrieked hugging Marlena who began to cry joyfully seeing her old friend’s exuberance. “We just have to see this baby this instant. Oh, I have to hold him. I started this day without child and now I not only have a son, but a grandson?!”

Anna and Marlena were just about to open the door to the cottage where Sami and E.J. had been alone inside when John stopped them.

“Wait, Doc, I don’t think that’s such a good idea,” John yelled as he stood in a pile of burnt debris.

“What is it, John?” Marlena asked, but John didn’t answer so Marlena, Anna, Tony, Lexie and Celeste walked toward him with their eyes drifting toward the mass upon which John could not help himself from staring.

“Roman,” Anna said sniffling, before turning her face away from the dead body of the man who had once been her husband and she had promised would be her husband once more and burying her tear-soaked face in Tony’s shoulder.

Tony and Anna walked away from the pile while Tony tried to console Anna, but soon there was another gasp and it was Lexie’s turn to cry.

“Stefano!” Marlena said, grimacing as her eyes noticed the charred body below her that she would never have even known was a person at all if not for the Phoenix ring still shining on its flame-kissed fingers.

John embraced Marlena while Lexie sobbed in Celeste’s arms.

“How cruel that Stefano would have to take Sami’s father from her yet again just when she was given a son,” Marlena said bitterly.

“And how cruel that only in death can he finally give E.J. his true father!” Anna cried.

“So this is what the spirits had in mind with this tragedy,” Celeste said to herself, for Lexie was too upset to notice her mother’s ramblings. “This is the chaos and destruction that fate would have, whether the cards warned me of it or not.”

INSIDE THE WOODCUTTER'S COTTAGE:

But inside the sanctuary of the simple cottage, the mood was anything but chaotic or destructive.

In fact, both E.J. and Sami, the troubled, misunderstood and often self-destructive souls that they were found sanity and stability in each other as they looked on the child they created.

The two of them laid in the bed facing each other with little Roman DiMera in his swaddling blanket nestled between them, forever connecting and in some ways completing both of them, whether they realized it then or not.

Despite all the drama and turmoil that waited for them outside the cottage doors and back in Salem, their minds were completely untroubled as they enjoyed the silence save for the soothing sound of Roman’s sleeping sighs.

Finally, E.J. broke the quiet to share what was on his mind.

“Samantha, I just want you to know how truly sorry I am for all of this craziness I’ve brought into your life and all the harm my family has caused you,” E.J. said quickly. “I mean, you couldn’t even give birth in a hospital because of my family and that’s not to mention what I did to you that…”

“Well, E.J., that’s fine and good,” Sami said interrupting him with a wry smile on her face, “but I have to tell you I’m not sorry, not sorry for any of it that has anything to do with us from being here in this moment together with our son right now.”

“But sweetheart, I’ve done so much to hurt you and I haven’t always been there for you or this child,” E.J. said sincerely. “I don’t think I’m worthy of your love and…”

“E.J., I know you may not remember this talk we had last summer when I was confiding in you about something bad I’d done to someone I thought I loved, but when I think back on it I can’t help but think how right you were with what you said,” Sami said.

“What’d I say?” E.J. said.

“Well you said something really insightful and beautiful that I don’t think I really understood until now,” Sami said.

“What was that?” he asked, with an eyebrow raised.

“That true love understands and true love forgives,” Sami said with tears welling up in her eyes. “E.J., we’ve been through so much. We’ve hurt each other so much. But especially now, being with you and our child, I just need you to know that I truly love you and I truly forgive you just as I hope you do me.”

“I do,” E.J. said caressing her face.

“Good,” Sami said with a smile. “Because know this. Listen to me, E.J. No part of me regrets loving you.”

E.J. could not have been happier than he was in that moment.

Colleen asks Abby to keep a secret for her

Wiping sweat from his brow, JT looked at all of the belongings that Amanda had him help bring to the loft. He wondered how someone could accumulate so much in such a short period of time. Coming into the loft, Amanda had two large garment bags full of her dresses and other dress clothes. Shaking his head, JT told her that he’s glad that he made enough room in the closet for her belongings. Amanda insists that she doesn’t have a lot. Rolling his eyes, he pulls her into his lap and gives her a kiss on the lips. He tells her that he’s glad that she’s going to be living with him. Kissing him again, Amanda grabbed some of her boxes and made her way towards the bedroom.

At Crimson Lights, Michael and Phyllis are having their usual bonding session. Phyllis comments on Dru’s ‘absurd’ behavior at Newman Enterprises. Chuckling, Michael tells her that he has her beat. He fills her in on his visit with his father. Phyllis asks if a part of him was glad that he got to see the man who is his father. Scrunching up his nose, Michael tells Phyllis that he only went to Atlanta to face the man and be done with him for good; how could he want to get to know about the man who walked out on his family. Taking Michael’s hand, Phyllis tells him that he should just try to get to know a little bit about Lowell; what could possibly happen know after so many years.

At the Abbott house, Abby, who has come with Colleen, is reading a book when she brings up what happened at breakfast the previous day. The young girl asks Colleen why she lied about eating when she threw her food away. Seeing that Abby could possibly slip and tell her father about it, Colleen asks Abby if she can keep what happened at breakfast as secret. Shrugging, Abby asks again why she threw her breakfast away; questioning if something was wrong with it. Smiling a little, Colleen tells Abby that she tried to eat it but she wasn’t hungry. Extending her pinkie finger, Colleen asks Abby to ‘pinkie swear’ to keep quiet. Linking pinkies, Colleen is relieved when Abby says she’ll keep quiet.

During his visit to the prison, Kevin can tell that Gloria isn’t in good spirits. When she sits down, she tells him that she’s glad to see him; that she has something he should know. Kevin, worried, asks her to tell him what’s going on. Before Gloria tells him, she asks him how things are going at the coffee house. He tells her that business is steady. Kevin then makes a comment about some guy coming by asking about her. Looking at her son, Gloria tells him that the man that was looking for her was none other than Michael’s father, Lowell Baldwin. Kevin asks how she can be sure? She tells him that he paid a visit, and made it clear that he was going to get to know Michael more; as well as the rest of the family.

Adrian, walking into the foyer of the Abbott home, asks why Colleen isn’t dressed for dinner. Colleen tells Adrian that she doesn’t feel like going out to a crowded restaurant. Laughing a little, Adrian tells her that he had made reservations to a new hot spot, and was hoping she would enjoy it. Handing him the phone, she asks if he can cancel and just stay, cuddled watching movies with one another. Taking the phone from her. Adrian dials the restaurant, apologizing that he must cancel the reservation. Colleen tells Adrian to pick one of the movies on the entertainment center, while she goes to pop a large bowl of popcorn. As she makes her way to the kitchen, she once again feels her stomach growl , but ignores it, more determined to stick to her goal.

Coming from the athletic club, Lauren coos at Fen, as she places him in his stroller. As she was pushing it towards the door, she smiled as an older gentleman offered to open the door for her. Looking down, the man crouches down and tells Lauren that she has a adorable little boy. She smiles, telling him that he’s even more adorable when he’s fast asleep. Looking at him for a moment, Lauren asks if they’ve met before. Shaking his head, the man tells her that he’s new to Genoa City. Checking her watch, Lauren realizes she’s late for her visit with Katherine. Excusing herself, Lauren again thanks the man for helping her get the stroller out of the door. When she is out of sight, Lowell smiles to himself, pleased that he managed to not only see Michael’s wife but his little son.

NEXT on GENOA CITY

• Amanda bumps into Daniel at Newman Enterprises
• Neil admits to Phyllis that the presence of Ji Min makes him feel like an outsider
• Victor introduces Nick to Tyler

After long back and forths the past week, and even for months and months, I've decided that, for the moment, my forrays into fan fiction must come to an end. I didn't want to do this, so soon into my blog. I had so many plans, but a number of things have gone into this decision.

I find I spend far too much time on the computer. Others seem to handle balancing a blog, posting time, school, work pretty well. I, however, am very bad at doing this. I'm trying to spend less time on it now. Ending the blog, and an fan fiction writing, is a big part of this. I've also cut back on posting, in general.

Another reason is that soaps, in general, have just become frustrating, Even Days, which has come so far in such a short time, doesn't quite have it anymore. It's better, and I enjoy it for what it is now, but, at this rate, I think the magic is gone. I could be wrong, but either way- I'm disillusioned with the genre as a whole, and sometimes, it just dsepresses me when I write things so far superior to those in the actual genre.

With school coming up, the blog would likely drown worse than it already is. Week-by-week, I've been unable to get a whole week's episodes finished. I'd usually rather be doing other things, things that are more fun. Doing a five-day-a-week blog is so demanding, and I'm definitely not up for it, I've discovered.

This may be my last year at my current school, and then I'll be transferring and my schedule will change drastically. I want to find a different job, that I can better balance in anticipation with this new potential school.

And so, the blog does say good night. I'm so sorry for the readers out there who are disappointed in this decision. I'm itching to write, as always, but fan fiction just doesn't satisfy me anymore. I have the urge to create, to have a blank slate. I want to get out there and act. I need my options open, basically. I'll catch you all on the boards.

Rick wakes up in Ashley’s bed, but she’s not there. Ashley comes out of the bathroom and Rick asks what happened last night. To Rick’s relief, Ashley says that nothing happened. Rick was too drunk and she just left him sleep in her bed while she took the fold out downstairs. Rick thanks Ashley for taking care of him and apologizes. Ashley says there’s no need for apologies. She would do that for any friend of hers. Rick asks if that is what they are now, friends. Ashley asks if they can be anything else. Rick says he loves Phoebe and he wants to be with her. Ashley understands and accepts that disappointing answer.

Stephanie pays Brooke a visit at her house. Brooke tells Stephanie that she is not in the mood to go rounds with her. Stephanie asks if she has been crying all night because the love of her life is in prison. Brooke doesn’t know where Stephanie is going with this. Stephanie reveals that she heard Brooke admit her love to Ridge before he was taken away. Stephanie tells Brooke that she needs to move on. With Ridge being in jail, now is the best time. Stephanie offers to hook Brooke up with someone, as Brooke laughs it off and tells Stephanie to get out of her house. Stephanie agrees to leave, but before she does, she tells Brooke that she knows her, probably better than Brooke knows herself. Stephanie knows that Brooke can’t live without a man. She will screw up, and when she does, Stephanie will go straight to Ridge.

The guard comes by Ridge’s cell and has news for him. He is getting a roommate as he is being moved into another cell with someone. Ridge was getting used to having a cell by himself and follows the guard to the new cell. Inside, there is a man, who introduces himself as Danny Delfino. The guard tells Ridge that he should get to know Danny. He’s famous in this place and will watch his back. When the guard leaves, Danny starts asking Ridge questions about his life, but Ridge is very cold. He tells Danny that they are not, nor will they ever be friends. As long as he stays on his side, Ridge will stay on his side.

CORTLANDT, Opal
Portrayed by: Dorothy Lyman (1981-83); Jill Larson (1989-present)
Family: Adrian Sword (Son); Tad Gardner Martin (Son); Jenny Gardner (Daughter); Petey Cortlandt (Son); Jamie Martin (Grandson); Jenny Colby Martin (Granddaughter)
Marriages: Ray Gardner; Hank Purdy; Palmer Cortlandt

1981: Wild and eccentric Opal Gardner had seen a lot in her life, but nothing could have prepared her for the hell that was marriage to Ray Gardner. Opal grew thick skin, which sometimes caused her to neglect those she loved the most. There was no one she loved more than her children: Jenny and Tad.

The Martin family in Pine Valley had adopted Tad. Down on her luck, Opal took Jenny to Pine Valley in search of her son. Tad had run away from the Martin home. But. Joe and Ruth Martin still welcomed their son’s family.

Opal wanted to open her own salon, the Glamorama. In the meantime she needed to augment her dwindling funds. She feigned a heart condition so as to force Jenny into working. She got her a job at a sleazy men’s bar, Foxy’s.



1982: Opal knew something was amiss at the Miss Teen Pine Valley contest. The judges had all acted very favorably towards Jenny, but Liza Colby was proclaimed the winner. He polled each judge individually, and realized that Jenny was in fact the real winner. Liza had manipulated the contest to make it seem like she had won. Opal warned Liza to stop trying to make life hard for Jenny or she would get what was coming to her.

Opal was now working for Phoebe Wallingford as her maid. But she was doing more than just cleaning the English Estate. She had begun an affair with Langley Wallingford, Phoebe’s new husband. Opal told Langley their affair was going to cease unless he divorced Phoebe. But, Langley was not about to part ways with his new life, and Phoebe’s money. Opal saw a golden opportunity and began to blackmail her one time lover. She accumulated enough money from Langley to set up the Glamoramma.

When Jenny left for New York to pursue a modeling career, Opal found herself under staffed. She was surprised to find Ray back on her doorstep. He had managed an early parole. But Opal wanted nothing to do with her ex-husband. Ray was too powerful for Opal and managed to keep her silent while he lived in the Glamoramma’s back room. Opal had no idea he was creating a bomb he intended to kill all the Martins with. His plan went awry when he tried to disarm it in the last minute learning Jenny was in the house too. Opal did not waste any time mourning him.



1983: Opal and the Martins welcomed Tad home to Pine Valley, but Opal knew something was amiss. She recognized a con artist when she saw one. Opal worked hard to keep one step ahead of Tad and his current plot. This caused much tension between she and Ruth, who took on a more compassionate approach to Tad’s shenanigans. Ruth was content as long as Tad remained enrolled at Pine Valley University. Opal made Tad work for his keep at the Glamoramma.

Opal met Ralph Purdy through a personal ad. They had a whirlwind courtship and married. Ralph wanted to show Opal the world. Opal packed her bags and left Pine Valley for Europe.



1989: Opal returned from her around the world adventure just in time for Tad’s wedding to southern belle Dixie Cooney. Opal had left Ralph in the Australian outback and decided that she had an itch to return to Pine Valley. Palmer Corltandt facilitated the return, hoping she would distract Tad long enough so that he could plan a way to turn Dixie against him. Tad wished his mother had kept her distance. At the wedding, she was sure to catch Dixie’s bouquet. Opal was never one to stay single for very long, especially in a town of so many eligible and wealthy men.

1990: Opal set her sites on Palmer Cortlandt. But, even Opal knew he was out of her league. She was content to date his lackies, including Sean Cudahy and Palmer’s old cellmate, Stan Ulatowski. Daisy Murdoch noticed Opal admiring her ex-husband. She recognized that Opal’s intentions were pure. She approached Opal with a proposition. She would help Opal transform herself into a woman of society. The only catch was that Palmer was to never know of Daisy’s involvement.

At the University Ball, Opal and Palmer caught eyes from across the room. Opal could not believe it, Palmer was approaching her for a dance. Palmer and Opal’s courtship was brief. She quickly became the newest Mrs. Palmer Cortlandt.

Palmer wanted Opal to help him break up Tad and Dixie. Opal acquiesced. It did not take much to cause their marriage to crumble. Opal would soon regret her actions. In a startling turn of events, Tad fell victim to a bomb set by Billy Clyde Tuggle. Opal could not bear the loss of another child. She held on to hope for as long as she could. Ruth lashed out against Palmer and made her come to terms with Tad’s death. Dixie and Opal bonded as a result of their loss.



1991: When Palmer was found poisoned in Cortlandt Manor, Opal became the prime suspect. It did not help that she was found with a vile of the poison, CRS-17. Opal made her plea to Palmer, but it fell on deaf ears. Opal left Cortlandt Manor.

Stan was revealed to be the real culprit behind the poisoning. Opal refused to return to Palmer after his doubts during the ordeal. But Opal was not ready to move on. Daisy returned to Pine Valley. When it looked like Palmer and Daisy were ready to reunite, Opal admitted her feeling to Palmer. Their marriage was back on track.



1992: After the near end to their marriage the year before, Opal was happy to announce that she was pregnant with Palmer’s son. Only, Palmer still believed he was sterile. Opal was insulted when he insisted on a paternity test after the child’s birth. Opal knew she had been faithful to her husband.

On Christmas Eve, Peter Cortlandt, was born in the middle of the Cortlandt living room. Palmer had to deliver his own son after the roadways shut down because of snow. A DNA test would support Opal’s claim that Peter was in fact Palmer’s son.



1993: Opal was reunited with Tad. Just as Opal had suspected all along, Tad survived his fall off the bridge. He had been living for two years as an amnesiac in the Napa Valley.

1994: Palmer lost control of Cortlandt Electronics. So, he and Opal went into business together to make ends meet. Opal’s secret fried chicken recipe made the Cluck-Cluck Chicken Shack a rousing success. Behind Opal’s back, Palmer sold the franchise to buy back Cortlandt Electronics. Opal felt betrayed because the recipe was always meant to stay in the family.

1995: Opal helped reunite Langley with his daughter, Verla. Opal was able to talk Phoebe down after she thought Verla to be Langley’s new lover.

Opal learned of Palmer’s infidelity with Janet Green. She kicked him out of Cortlandt Manor and began romancing Seabone Hunkle, Dixie’s father. But Palmer still pined for his wife. Daisy came back to Pine Valley upon hearing of their breakup. Daisy helped Opal realize that she was still very much in love with Palmer. She decided to let Palmer move back in with her at Cortlandt Manor.

1996: Opal and Palmer took in homosexual teenager Kevin Sheffield after his parents kicked him out of their home. Opal helped him come to grips with his parent’s rejection. Opal confronted Kevin’s mother, Judith Sheffield, who blamed Kevin for her other son, Jason Sheffield’s, incarceration. Judith agreed to take Kevin back in if he attended a psychiatrist. Only, the psychiatrist was convinced that he could turn Kevin straight. Opal offered him the open and accepting home that Kevin never had.



1998: Opal had made many mistakes in her past, but none was greater than Ray Gardner. She tried to get away from him once, starting a new life with Fred Dawson. But, Ray tracked her down and used Tad to get her back. Opal left Fred, but she had a secret. She had given birth to a son. A son she never thought she would see again.

Adrian Sword was a spy hired to find Palmer’s stash of Nazi artifacts. He took a job as Opal’s chauffeur. Opal knew that she had met Adrian before. When he revealed his father was Fred, Opal knew she had found her son. Belinda Keefer discovered Adrian’s link to Opal’s past. Opal was finally reunited with her son.

Palmer tried to elude Adrian. He faked his death to protect himself. Opal mourned the loss of her husband with her new son by her side. Tad and Dixie found Palmer alive in New York. Betrayed, Opal kicked Palmer out of Cortlandt Manor. Opal filed for divorce, but she never really stopped caring for him. When Palmer was temporarily blinded in the Holidays explosion, Opal helped him recover.

1999: Palmer wanted to make Opal pay. He wanted to leave her with nothing. He told The Intruder about how she had abandoned Adrian as a child. Adrian came to Opal’s defense. Adrian was able to pressure Palmer to stop his offensive. Opal was awarded all of Palmer’s assets. She also got primary custody of Petey.

Opal re-opened the Glamouramma in Cortlandt Manor. To help her with Petey, Opal hired Pigeon Hallow native Becca Tyree to be his babysitter.

Adrian and Opal attempted a hostile takeover of Cortlandt Electronics. Their efforts were crushed when Erica, Opal’s best friend, voted in Palmer’s favor. She explained to Opal how Palmer had always been there for her, like the father she never had. With time, the friends repaired their broken relationship.

Opal did not want to admit that she still had feelings for Palmer. This became apparent when Palmer rashly eloped with Vanessa Bennett. Vanessa had weaseled her way into Erica’s life so as to profit from a tell-all book about her life. Opal did not want Palmer to suffer the same fate.



2001: Erica needed Opal to offer Bianca’s new girlfriend, Frankie Stone, a place to stay. In reality, Erica was going to plant drugs in Frankie’s room at the Cortlandt Manor in hopes of driving her out of town. Frankie was found dead in her room and Erica was taken into custody for the murder. Opal learned that Frankie was actually Vanessa’s niece and con artist.

Gillian Andrassy’s spirit used Opal’s body as vehicle to make contact with Ryan.

2002: Opal asked a musician named Hank to accompany her to the Crystal Ball. She hoped the move would make Palmer notice her, and it worked. Only, Hank was sincere in his feelings for Opal. Palmer arranged for Hank to go on a world tour, and he begged Opal to accompany him. She admitted she might still have feelings for Palmer and let Hank down gently.

Opal was at Cortlandt Manor alone when Palmer’s niece, Lanie Rampal, called looking for him. Lanie had devastating news. She was with Dixie moments before her car swerved off an embankment in the Swiss Alps. Dixie was dead.

Opal was weary of Petey’s new nanny, Kendall Hart. Opal thought Kendall was taking advantage of Palmer’s state of mind since Dixie’s unexpected death.



2003: Opal discovered Palmer and Adam’s plot to kill Michael Cambias for escaping prosecution of Bianca’s rape. For the first time in her life, Opal kept her silence.

2004: Opal was among those at Erica’s intervention for alcoholism. That night, Opal learned the truth behind Erica’s rape. Eric Kane had exchanged Erica to Richard Fields so that he would star in his next movie. The ordeal began Erica’s long road to recovery.

When Bianca got her baby, Miranda Montgomery, back, Opal planted a kiss on Palmer. Opal was surprised when Palmer returned with one of his own. Opal was always jealous of Palmer’s relationship with other women. Myrtle encouraged her to pursue him again.

2005: Opal was among those deceived into thinking that Di Kirby was the late Dixie. She had fallen in love with Di, so much so that she pushed Tad to pursue her again



2006: Opal enlisted Del Henry’s help to make Palmer jealous. He wanted him to be seen with her at public events. In return, she fueled his passion for the finer things in life. Alas, the plan never really helped her win Palmer back.

The blog will be taking its 400 plus episode blog elsewhere EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY, according to creator and headwriter, King Reilly. "It's true! I am moving the blog to a different location for MANY reasons! I'm just not happy here!"...confesses King. "The blog will benefit from being elsewhere. Fans can email me at [email protected] for exclusive details on its new location, and it's NOT where you think! "...teases King. The blog isn't going to another message board promises King...at least not yet. "It's bigger than that. I'm taking the blog to a whole new level. I don't want to reveal too many details! If I post them, a certain other blog will probably steal them!”…King says with a laugh referring to the lack of integrity, originality of another SONBC Blog. “If they want to prove to all of SON they have no originality and are in the field of piracy, that is fine by me.”…King says with a smile. But that is not the reason for the big move. "Oh heck no! I wouldn't give people the satisfaction. Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, I guess! But I have been threatened with a potential banning so I cannot say anymore. I am moving the blog because SONBC doesn't appear to have much traffic or viewership anymore."

As for the future, it's very bright. "The cruise ship storyline was one of the most exciting I've done, and it isn't even over yet! The smoke must clear, those that survived still have to get out alive. There are still so many secrets and lies to come out. It will be a multi-week adventure that will leave lives in its wake! And there is a huge new storyline coming up concerning Victor's inheritance and his fortune. He is dying so he knows he needs to set something up to take care of his loved ones. Stefano's impact on Salem will be one of those most heavily felt forces on ever on the history of the show. Brady Black will be returning. The blog will finally tackle a gay love story with Will/Oscar. The Brady/Dimera feud will be amazing and ignited on a whole new level. Stefano never really had a reason to hate the Brady's before. It was simply that Roman was attacking him and trying to nail him to the wall, they kept him from Maggie, and Megan's death, which, turns out, she didn't die until recently. Now, Stefano will REALLY have a reason to hate the Brady's, and it won't be pretty!"

With over 600 entries, an 26,862 views, and 1,100 comments, the blog and SON are parting. "Over 25,000 views? That's so amazing! And 1,100 comments is ridiculous! I am so happy the blog's fans have read and commented and supported it like this. It will continue on to greater heights and better things...just not here!"

Once again, fans can send an email to [email protected] on how they can follow the blog in its future!

Here's to 400 more!

THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH! I LOVE YOU MORE THAN WORDS COULD EXPRESS!!

Now, email me! LOL!

Chapter 2

Lesley busied herself in the dining room, while waiting for her guests to return. She wanted to make sure everything had been set-up perfectly. The chefs had prepared a sumptuous feast, which went without saying, because she only hired the most excellent kitchen staff. Tonight’s meal would be indescribably delicious.

She checked the place cards of the guests’ seating arrangements, which she had so meticulously planned. Dinner partners would not be the partners the guests had boarded the Tempted Fate with, and their game partners would be unexpected, as well.

Lesley had planned this event, taking into account every eventuality that could possibly happen and she and her staff were prepared for everything. She had learned, so long ago, from him, to plan and strategize in just this way when playing a game. And she also learned, from him, that everything in life was a game. The bastard would be proud of his tutoring, she smiled stoically to herself. The most important things she had learned in life, she had learned from him. And the lessons she had learned could either lead to ultimate survival and success, or to absolute destruction, depending on how the student used them. She had learned her lessons well, before she escaped.

Her guests were going to be the beneficiaries of her own painful education in survival, using pride, greed, lust, the macabre, and even misguided love. If they graduated from this accelerated course, they would be invincible.

She met Edmund and Maria Grey as they came down the staircase.

“The accommodations are simply breathtaking,” said Maria. “How long have you been hosting these charitable functions, Lesley?”

“Oh, for quite some time, Dr. Grey,” Lesley smiled.

“You look very familiar,” said Edmund. “Have we met before? Maybe in Europe?”

“I’m afraid not, Mr. Grey. We’ve never met. However, I make it a habit to learn something about all of my guests. My research on you turned up volumes,” Lesley laughed. “An award winning journalist, who always seems to be in the thick of things. I must tell you I was very impressed with your biography.”

“You’re too kind, Ms. Devonshire,” smiled Edmund.

“Please, call me Lesley.”

“Only if you’ll call me Edmund.”

“And please, please, call me Maria,” she chimed in, feeling as if she were being ignored.

“Oh, of course, Maria,” said Lesley. “We’ll all be on a first name basis before long,” she concluded, as Adam and Brooke joined them.

“Adam Chandler,” Adam said as he held out his hand to Lesley, “And this is …”

“Brooke English,” Brooke finished, as she held out her hand to Lesley, as well.

Next, Jack and Erica joined the group, with Jack admiring, “This is one beautiful Grande Dame of the rivers, isn’t she? Where was she built?”

“Actually, Mr. Montgomery, this boat was built in the 1860’s and it has just been refurbished for use for these types of events in the 21st century.”

“Oh my,” said Erica. “A real antique.”

“Yes, Ms. Kane,” said Leslie. “An antique with an unusually interesting history.”

“History? What kind of history?” asked David, walking up to the group, with Krystal on his arm.

“Hmm, the best kind of history, of course,” smiled Lesley. “Haunted history.”

“Haunted? You mean like ghosts and goblins?” asked Krystal. “David, you didn’t tell me this would be a haunted cruise.” David just smiled and looked to Leslie to help him out.

“Actually, Ms. Carey, neither Dr. Hayward, nor any of the other guests, including Ms. Montgomery, knew anything of the Tempted Fate’s history. We feel it is an added attraction and helps with the mood of the festivities,” explained Leslie.

“Hmm, nothing like a couple of ghosts to add to the atmosphere,” said Krystal sarcastically.

“Well, maybe some of the ghosts can be of assistance in solving the mysteries of the games you’ll be playing this weekend,” suggested Lesley.

“Well, I for one, am very interested in these games. I’ve always been good at games,” smiled Adam, taking Lesley’s hand, “And I’m very interested in hearing about your particular games, Ms. Devonshire.”

“All in good time, Mr. Chandler, and please call me Lesley,” she smiled back. “Well, my good guests, I see that the younger guests will be joining the wiser guests shortly. Please, let’s all retire to the dining room and I’ll explain in more detail.”

Adam held his arm out to Lesley to escort her to the dining room, smiled and said, “Well, definitely, let the games begin.”

To be continued…

I HAVENT HAD TIME AND BEEN IN THE RIGHT PLACE!!

All episodes from last week have been posted in the appropriate place:

http://www.freewebs.com/moments_of_existence/episodes.html

Also, don't miss this week's episodes as the Ted/Livvie affair reaches a shocking twist!! Tune in NOW!

http://www.freewebs.com/moments_of_existence/week.html

Because work has gotten the better of me in the last few weeks, my episode lead time has decreased significantly. Therefore, in order to get myself caught back up to a decent backlog of episodes, the series will be pre-empted this week (5/21-5/25) at the very least. I'm hoping to get things back up to speed and back to normal by next Monday.

In casting news, in light of Leann Hunley returning to Days, I'll be recasting Betsy Crawford Harper in the coming weeks. I have a few strong contenders for the character. Also, the 1st new "contract" character added to the cast since the series premiere should debut shortly. Leo Kent, a suave European businessman, will be represented by images of Ben Richards who formerly played Bruno Milligan on the UK sudser "Footballers Wives".

Ryan Chandler, Media Director for LC recently debuted the show's new opening. Head Writer/Executive Producer Jay Vanderburg is thrilled. "I am so thankful to Ryan for this. Who wants to watch a show with a boring opening? Its the first things you see" remarks Vanderburg. The new opening can be seen here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IyHOxR4TrAM

- It is the evening the next day and we begin with an eager Jan on her way to the Police Station, in order to make a statement, that she has evidence in Claire's disappearance, which clearly she plans to throw them off her trail. Jan goes parading through the Salem PD and exclaims,''Oh please, I need an officer, I might have some information on where poor Claire is,'' Belle spots her from across the room and says,''the only way you would know is because you took her you bitch,'' and she starts to attack Jan. Roman comes to see this and pulls the two of them apart saying,''What the hell is this all about, settle down.'' Belle says,''She stole my child, she deserves it,'' Roman states,''Belle, there is no proof, for all I know anyone could be a suspect, even you or Shawn.'' Belle says,''Oh don't be so ridiculous, just look at the evil in her, still carrying a flame for Shawn, if that's your only motivation, you're a pathetic psycho.'' Jan says,''Oh, I'll show you psycho,'' and continues to attack Belle, in which officers have to intervene and they are both hauled off to seperate cells to cool down.

- Across town, Stefano is listening to some great opera, when the maid interrupts and says,''Doctor Evans has arrived.'' Stefano says,''Tell her to come in,'' he preps himself making sure he looks okay for his queen of the night and she arrives in the room. Marlena says,''How nice of you to make this session look like a dinner party, you never disappoint.'' Stefano says,''Only the best for you Marlena, regardless of the ocassion, my home is your palace.'' Marlena says uncomfortably,''Thanks, now let's get started.'' ''So how are you feeling today?'' Stefano says,''I feel like a great symphony, like nothing in the world is wrong, but I am wrong, there are things troubling me.'' Marlena says,''Like such as?'' Stefano says,''My son is being accused of such heinous crimes as rape, murder, and blackmail;why can't my family get an ounce of respect in this town?'' Marlena says,''Well, you dug your own grave when you decided to make enemies in Salem, you should know that Stefano.'' Stefano says,''You're right, I guess that is why I feel horrible because I know this turmoil was started by me, not my enemies.'' ''Sometimes I feel like I don't fit in this town.'' As he moves a little closer to Marlena and we fade out to Marlena's office at the Hospital.

- We see there is someone breaking into her office, without much difficulty, demonstrating that they know much about breaking and entering, he turns his flashlight on and we see that he is E.J. Wells. E.J. says to himself,''Now where does the good doc keep her files on her dear daughter, Samantha?'' He delves through a bunch of files and comes across some interesting people in Salem and glances through some saying to himself,''This whole town is full of as many loony people, that my family alone cannot compare.'' He finally comes to Sami's file as he lets out a sigh of accomplishment saying that finally, he could find out what Sami says during her sessions, which would further tell him how much she truly loves E.J. He cleans up and slips out as if nothing happened, into the night.

- It is a great night, Steve and Kayla are taking advantage of the beauty and are dining out at Chez Rouge. The waiter asks if they are ready to order, and they say that they may have to think about it, come back in 5 minutes. Steve exclaims,''Sweetness, why did you take me here, to kill me with these exotic foods and endless prices,'' Kayla says,''Steve, it wouldn't hurt you if we ate with some class once in a while, so while we are still thinking, how is work?'' Steve says,''Being a PI is tough, much different from being a cop but you have the same goal of justice in the end.'' ''Don't worry I won't be getting myself killed anytime soon, I promise.'' ''So how's everything at the Hospital? Kayla says,''Oh, things are moving along quite smoothly.'' Steve thinks this is a case of Mike, the Chief of Staff, getting closer to Kayla and wisecracks,''So, your boyfriend is making the workplace more friendly.'' Kayla lightly smacks Steve saying,''You know we only have a work relationship. For all I know, girls could be hitting on you all day at your workplace.'' The waiter comes back and asks again and both are very mad in which they rudely tell him they aren't ready, which prompts Kayla to leave saying,''I'll be at home if you feel like being a nice guy.'' He looks at himself in disgust and heads for the bar.

- At the bar, Steve runs into Jennifer as she is talking to Colin, shooting the breeze. Steve says to Jennifer,''Now you behave your self Mrs. Deveraux, Jack is away, which doesn't mean Jen should play.'' Jennifer says,''Don't worry it is a friendly exchange, no worries bro.'' Steve says,''Okay,'' and orders himself a beer to drown his sorrows of his actions tonight. Jennifer goes back to her conversation with Colin saying,''Oh, that Jack better get back, he will be gone for 4 weeks, covering a news story for the Spectator, sometimes I wonder why he likes that job, it only brings him from his family.'' Colin then adds,''He is a determined person, the one thing I liked about him, but at your expense, he should be home more often.'' ''So therefore, you'll be available for dinner on Saturday night,'' as Jennifer replies uncertainly,''Of course.'' ''Now this is a friendly dinner between good friends,'' as Colin says smugly,''Of course, of couse.'' Jen gets a call from Jack Jr.'s baby sitter and has to leave to relieve the baby sitter, they say their goodbyes and go their seperate ways.

- We come back to Stefano and Marlena as he gets closer to her and says,''Why didn't we try harder to be together, we could have been great together,'' as Stefano pulls Marlena in for kiss, in which she says in her head,''As much as I want to resist, I'll do just this, if it means protecting my family, this is just according to plan, nothing else.'' The kissing ends and Marlena says,''This ends our session, call my office if you would like to schedule another appointment, goodbye.'' She leaves and Stefano says to himself,''Oh Marlena, you are such a tease, but one day I will have you.'' As he says that E.J. rushes in with Sami's file saying,''Father, Samantha does have feelings for me, we could be a family and raise our child together, I could see it now.'' He imagines him, Sami, and their child as a family in the future a happy one in the DiMera mansion. Stefano says worrifully,''Oh son, give it time and she will be yours forever, just like my approach to Marlena, remember it is fate that drew us to those beautiful women.'' As father and son rejoice and toast over glasses of champagne to their varying successes of that night.

- Jan is being released from her cell, as Belle is as well and they cross paths, giving each other nasty stares, Jan gives her statement about Claire and heads on out saying to herself,''I hope Claire was alright for the couple hours I was gone.'' She gets in her car and races home, but she notices that Belle is on her tail and she tries and succeeds in losing Belle saying,''Blondie, you are no match for my impeccable driving skills.'' ''Just wait dear Claire, I am on her way home!'' She says this as a split screen of Claire and Jan shows up as the previews roll

Previews for Thursday, May 3, 2007
- Kristen goes in to kiss Roman, saying,''How could you confuse me with that country hick, we are so different, although looks could be deceiving.''
- Greta says,''Is this some sick joke, there is no way I could be that man's daughter, no way.
- Abe says to Shawn,''I'm sorry, but you are under arrest.'' As Shawn gives him a surprised look.
- John dances with Susan saying,''Kristen, I thought you were a better dancer than this.'' As she loses her balance and falls.
- Max rejects Abby, saying,''How many times do I have to tell you, Chelsea and I are over.''

I'm the little speck that flies around places of interest in Salem. I was on the wall at Sami and Lucas' when EJ bugged the apartment with video apparatus the way that Will had shown him. When he left, I just buzzed along around his head back to his apartment and hung around to see what he planned to do. Well, of course, it was apparent that he was going to hear Sami and Celeste's plot to murder him and how. He sat right there on the couch sipping his cognac, grinning that evil grin this human gets when he loves something. I know that he has a plan to thwart Sami and Celeste. Since I've lived a very long time (not an ordinary fly am I), it's almost easy to read his mind. I'd bet that he gets hold of a fire retardant reagent and the same balm that Sami will use on her lips, so that when she works her dastardly deed, he will pretend that she was successful even to setting him on fire. Now, I wager that as soon as she leaves, he will quickly douse out the fire, cleanse his mouth and laugh with glee at his joke on her, while his smiling that same grin. He will be quite pleased that she was that devious and that he was that lording it over her. Well, I'm bored so it's back to the wide open spaces to see what I can catch to spy on next.

I am tying up some storylines in one episode, and doing it without dialogue. It was going to be stretched out into a week, but it's not feasable.

~Brook Lyn arrives and is shocked to find out that she has a half brother. Ned never tol her about James, which angers her.

~Dillion is offered a summer internship in New York City with NYU. He will be in the city helping to film a major motion picture. He breaks things off with Lulu, who takes it in stride.

~Sam makes more apperances around Port Charles, always evading detection. She breaks into the PCPD and burns the evidence against the Cassadines. She is seen entering a warehouse where she meets up with a man who gives her an assignment. The man, who is a Cassadine, instructs her to kidnap Spencer, Kristina, and Molly.

~Luke is angry that there is no progress being made in the hunt for Helena and Sam. He feels that Robert is spending too much time with Tracy, who are continuing with their affair. To counter this and to get Robert back on track, Luke tells Tracy about the bet. Hell hath no fury than Tracy Quartermaine scorned!

~Carly, completely and utterly depressed that Jax has dumped her ends up one night at Jake's. She starts playing pool and catches the eye of a man who starts harrassing her. She tries to fight him off and an attractive younger man saves her. They end up sleeping together and then she asks his name.....

~The custody trial of James begins. The star witness is Brook Lyn. She testifies that she hardly knows her father and he barely raised her. Ned doesn't know if he should allow Ric to attack Brenda's character. In the end, he doesn't allow it. Sonny though is fair game and it does test Sonny and Brenda relationship. The court judge comes back with a judgement and custody of James is awarded too.....

TUNE IN AFTER THE HIATUS. We Will be back in June!

Coming soon to SONBC, AT END OF DAY is an original soap created by SON's Mason Wimberley. Set in the suburban town of Glenview, Illinois, the soap follows the triumphs and tragedies of four core families: the wealthy Richards', working class Thompsons, the upstanding Conrads, and the African-American Williams family. Although the cast is not yet complete, many major daytime stars have already been cast such as Eileen Davidson (ex-Ashley, Y&R/B&B; ex-Kristen/Susan/Sister Mary Moira/Thomas/Penelope, DAYS), Jack Wagner (ex-Nick, B&B; ex-Frisco, GH), Martha Byrne (ex-Lily/Rose, ATWT), and Helen Wagner (ex-Nancy, ATWT) as the show's matriarch, Caroline Richards. The sudser is expected to premiere early this summer.

A new day begins …

- Roman walked into Hope’s hospital room. She was alone – resting. He was going to go right back out but she awoke and called his name. Roman greeted her and kissed her cheek. He asked her how she was doing. She looked very pale and drawn but she managed a small smile.

Hope: I’m doing okay … oh hell no, I’m not.

She broke down in tears. Roman hugged her and told her that the family was going to be there for her. He passed her a tissue.

Hope: I have to get control of myself. I can’t let Bo see me this way. I have to be strong for him. He needs me.

Roman: And you need him … Where is the rascal?

Hope: He went home to check on the baby. The sitter agreed to take care of Doodlebug for awhile but Bo wants to make sure everything is okay. (Smiling a little) We finally have a name for our little girl.

Roman: What is it?

Hope: Ciara Brady … isn’t that beautiful?

Roman: It’s nice, I suppose. But I was really hoping you’d call her Romanna.

Hope: (nudging his arm) Very funny.

Roman: (changing the subject) I called mom and pop. They are going to come over as soon as they can. I also called Frankie and told him to get his arse back to Salem.

Hope: I’m sure they were all horrified to hear I’m on death’s door.

Roman: They were all sad and empathetic.

Hope: I hate the thought of leaving Ciara and Shawn motherless. But I know you will all take care of them.

Roman: (nodding) Of course.”

Hope: Promise me, Roman, that you will look after Bo too. He tries to be strong but I can see this ordeal has affected him a lot. He needs you more than ever.
Roman: I know and I’ll take it as my personal responsibility to be with him every step of the way.

Hope: Thank you so much, Roman.

Roman: You’re welcome.

Bo walked into the room.

Bo: Hey, Roman. (Coming over to Hope and kissing her cheek) Hello, Fancy Face.

Hope: Hey, Brady. How is our little girl?

Bo: Fine. I held her for a bit and she just stared up at me with those big brown eyes of hers. She is beautiful just like her mother.

Roman excuses himself saying that he is still trying to reach Kimberly. He had called her the night before but she hadn’t answered for whatever reason. Bo and Hope thank him and he walks out.

Bo tells Hope that he has called Alice. Mickey and Maggie are bringing her over.

Bo: I didn’t tell them why you’re here. I think you should be the one to tell them about your condition.

Hope: Okay. It will be hard to tell them but I guess I don’t have any choice.

***

- Josh was working at Java Café. He was making a latte when his co-worker Janet asked him how he and Abby were getting along.

Josh: (shrugging) I think Abby is losing interest in me.

Janet: What makes you say that?

Josh told her that Abby seemed distant lately and that she always seemed to be thinking about Max. He told Janet about the fight that broke out at Max’s garage the night before.

Josh: I think she may have feelings for Max. She seems awfully interested in his love life.

Janet: Are you sure you’re reading the situation right?

Josh: Yes, at least I think so. What more should I be doing? What do you look for in a guy?

Janet: Hmm … I guess he needs a great car; a good job; nice clothes; and it doesn’t hurt if he’s good looking.

Josh: Well I don’t have any of those things. I don’t have a good job or great car. I am not that good looking and my clothes are cheap.

Janet: You dork, I was being factious … First of all, you are not bad looking. You’re actually kinda cute – don’t take that the wrong way; I do have a boyfriend. As for a good car and nice clothes, that comes when you have a good job.

Josh: Are you suggesting that I leave this place? Wouldn’t you miss me? (Smiling)

Janet: (smiling back) Not likely. But you don’t have to settle for working in a coffee shop. You’re a business major. You should be out there doing business-y stuff … Just find a newspaper and look in the classified ads for a new job.

Josh: That’s a good idea. Do you mind covering for me while I go find a paper?

Janet: I don’t mind.

Josh: Thanks. (Takes off his apron and walks outside)

***

- Shawn was holding Claire as he and Belle walked down the street. They had taken the bus and Kimberly’s house was only half a block away from where they gotten off.

Shawn: I forgot how hot it gets in California.

Belle: No kidding (wipes her forehead with her sweater). It’s only April and it’s stifling.

Shawn: We’re almost there.

They made it to Kimberly’s house. Belle commented that it was gorgeous. The ocean was visible from the deck. Belle knocked on the door. The door opened and Kimberly was sitting there in her wheelchair, smiling.

Kimberly: Hey, there, f-folks. It looks like this Santa Ana is getting to you. Come inside.

They both hugged her lightly. “I won’t b-break,” she said and hugged them back harder. They thanked her for letting them stay with her and she waved it off. “You’re fam-lee,” she said. Shawn complimented her saying that she looked beautiful with her newly cut hair. Belle, having the eye for fashion, added that she loved Kimberly’s yellow summer dress. They asked how Kimberly’s children were doing and she said “s-swell; they’re both away at s-school and I miss-ess them, but I’m sure they knee-ded a break from me.” Shawn said he doubted that.

Kimberly asked if they wanted breakfast and something to drink. She said her nurse Louella cooked the meals, among her other duties. Shawn and Belle admitted that they were famished. They hadn’t eaten since early in the morning. Kimberly wheeled herself into the kitchen and they followed her. She introduced them to Louella. Louella said “hello” and told them that she had expected that Kimberly’s family were going to be hellions “but you look normal”. They all laughed. Kimberly asked Louella to make them breakfast. Belle asked for cream of wheat for Claire and Louella agreed to make some. Louella got them each a glass of orange juice.

While Louella prepared breakfast, Kimberly showed Belle and Shawn around the house (she could maneuver around the house expertly in her wheelchair). She told them that Louella had assumed that they were married so she had only made one bed but would make up another one in the other guest room if they wanted their own space. They said that was fine and thanked her again. Kimberly then showed them “the nursery” which consisted of a crib, changing table, swing, playpen, and a basket full of toys. “I had my gardener bring out my kids things from the garage,” she said proudly. Belle started to cry with relief. Kimberly patted her on the back.

Kimberly asked to hold Claire. Shawn handed her the toddler. Kimberly cooed at Claire and tickled her until Claire was giggling. “What an adorable baby,” she declared with a smile in her eyes. “I tink I’ll k-keep you for a lit-tel while, sweet pea.” She kissed each of Claire’s chubby cheeks.

Louella called them to come for breakfast. They ate a good meal while Kimberly asked how they happened to be on the run. They told her that Philip had gotten custody of Claire even though he had no rights to her. They said that they believed they had done the right thing by taking their daughter back and they added that should they cause any trouble for Kimberly, she just needed to tell them and they would leave. She waved their fears away.

After breakfast, Kimberly insisted that Shawn and Belle both take naps. “You look ex-exhausted,” she said. “Lou and I’ll w-watch out for this lit-tel one.” They didn’t need much convincing as they were both practically asleep on their feet. They went to their separate rooms and lay down.

Kimberly played patty cake with Claire until Louella wanted her turn to hold “the little beauty”. Louella bounced Claire on her knee. The phone rang and Kimberly wheeled over to it. She answered the phone with a “hello”. It was her brother Roman. She was glad to hear from him. She told him that it had been too long since they talked. Roman said that this wasn’t a social call. “You sound serious. What’s going on?” she asked.

***
- Maggie walked into Hope’s room, followed by Mickey who was holding Alice’s arm. Bo helped Mickey settle “Mrs. H” into a chair.

Maggie: Hope, what are you doing here, sweetheart? We were worried when we found out you were in the hospital.

Mickey: I want to know that too.

Hope took their hands in hers and looked at Alice with obvious adoration.

Hope: Do you all know how much I love you?

Maggie: I think we have some idea.

Alice: Of course we do and we feel the same way about you.

Hope: First off, I want to say that you three have treated me so well and have loved me more than I ever thought was possible. Maggie, when I needed fashion or love advice you were always there for me. When I was ranting or raving about something, you calmed me down and helped me gain a new perspective … Mickey, I knew I could always count on you to be there for me and my – our- family. Sadly you had to help us too many times in the legal department but you were never judgmental or critical. I appreciate that so much … Gran, you have always been there for me, being my silent cheerleader, always ready with a kind word and a big plate of your famous donuts. We had the best talks and you always made me feel so special. I can never thank you enough for caring about me – all three of you have made a wonderful difference in my life.

Maggie: That was all nice to hear but it sounded too much like a farewell speech, Hope. What’s going on?

Hope: Well, in a way it is my farewell speech … (her voice breaks) You see, I’m dying …

***

- Carrie knocked on Billie’s door. She hoped Sami and Lucas wouldn’t catch her there. Sami would likely tear out Carrie’s hair strand by strand.

The door opened. Billie was standing there, frowning. Carrie asked if they could talk. Billie stepped back to let her inside the apartment. “So talk,” Billie said.

Carrie started to say how sorry she was that she had disappointed Billie but she was distracted by the bathroom door opening. Lucas was suddenly standing there, naked from the waist up, only wearing a towel around his lower body. She was speechless. “So it’s not enough to ruin my wedding, Carrie; now you’re stalking me too?” Lucas demanded.

***

- Josh found a newspaper and scanned the classified ads. He was sitting on a bench outside the Java Café. He saw nothing but ads for other low paying, non-prestigious jobs. “Damn,” he muttered. He was about to throw the paper away when he spotted an ad on the back page. It read: A dynamic international company seeks bright, motivated interns to join our progressive business program. High powered, fast paced environment offers excellent opportunities for advancement. Excellent pay and benefits package. Fax resume to Titan Publishing at 555-8957.

He tore out the ad and put it in his back pocket. He went to a payphone and called Abby. She answered her cell on the second ring.

Abby: Hello?

Josh: Hey, Abby, it’s Josh.

Abby: Oh, Josh, thanks for calling. I was just thinking of you.

Josh: (smiling) You were?

Abby: Yeah I felt so bad about what happened last night. I never act that way but Chelsea just got under my skin, I guess. I don’t want her ruining Max. He has barely recovered from the last time they broke up.

Josh: (frowning) Oh its okay I understand. The reason I was calling was to let you know that I’m applying for a new job at a company. I won’t be in food services anymore if I get this. It is supposed to pay well so I can finally buy a car that’s not have dead and new clothes and …

Abby: That sounds nice. I wish you luck.

Josh: How was your test?

Abby: Okay I guess. I think I did well.

Josh saw Janet waving to him from inside the café.

Josh: I’ve got to go, Abby, I’ll talk to you later.

Abby: Yeah, okay. Bye.

Josh: Bye.

Josh was sure that this new job would turn everything around for him.

***

- Mickey, Maggie, and Alice were shocked and horrified by Hope’s announcement.

Mickey: I don’t understand what is happening. This is like a cruel joke.

Hope: It’s true unfortunately.

Maggie: Bo, why didn’t you tell us what was happening with her?

Bo: (looking down) She asked me not to.

Hope: I didn’t want to worry you.

Maggie: We’re family. Of course we’re worried.

Alice: Hope, tell us what’s wrong.

Hope: Well about seven months ago – when I was pregnant with Ciara – I found a lump in my breast when I was doing a self-exam. I thought maybe it was just pregnancy related. But after I delivered my little doodlebug I felt it again. Then I started to feel so weak and tired all the time. I convinced myself that having a baby in the house again was wearing me out. But Bo insisted that I see a doctor. Just a short time ago, I found out that not only did I have breast cancer – but that the cancer had spread throughout my body … I could have possibly been treated sooner but I wouldn’t have anyway because it would have hurt my baby while I was pregnant. The doctors – we checked with several – said that I had three months to live but my condition is deteriorating even faster than expected.

Maggie gasped. Alice and Mickey looked at each other helplessly.

Maggie: Hope, are you sure that there isn’t some mistake?

Hope: I’m sure.

Mickey: Oh lord, please don’t let this be true.

Hope looked at her grandmother. Alice’s head was down.

Hope: Gran, are you okay?

Alice: (looking at Hope with tear filled eyes) Hope, I’ll be alright but I’m having an argument with God inside my head. I keep saying: “she’s too young; she has two kids who will be motherless; she truly is a wonderful person who we all love; it’s not fair.” I still have more to say; I’m not done with him yet.

There wasn’t a dry eye in the room.

Alice shakily raised herself from the chair and hugged Hope as tight as she could.
Alice: I love you, Hope. Grandmothers are supposed to die before the young ones do. It should be me, not you (she kisses Hope on the cheek).

Maggie: (drying her eyes) Is there anything we can do?

Hope: Just take good care of Bo and my children please.

Maggie: Of course.

Bo: Could you also call Jack and Jennifer for us and give them the news?

Maggie: That’s the least I can do (she kisses Hope). Our poor girl, we love you more than words can say. With Melissa and Sarah so far away, I’ve grown to think of you as a surrogate daughter.

Hope: And I’ve thought of you as another mother.

Maggie, Mickey, and Alice depart, wiping away tears as they walk to the elevator. Inside the room, Bo holds Hope as she breaks down in tears.

***

- Carrie: (blushing) I’m not stalking you, Lucas. I didn’t even know you were here.

Lucas: Whatever (he walks into the bedroom and shuts the door).

Carrie (to Billie): What is he doing here?

Billie: He didn’t say much; just that Sami and him weren’t getting along. I wonder why (stares at Carrie pointedly).

Carrie: (blushing again) I am so sorry about what happened. I wish I could take it all back … Billie, you were always so nice to me; I don’t want to lose your friendship because of my stupidity.

Billie: (ignoring her plea) Where does my brother Austin fit in this merry-go-round of a love triangle?

Carrie: Honestly, Billie, I don’t know. He’s in Paris right now and we haven’t talked in over 2 weeks. It seems to me that he wants to end our “marriage”. We just weren’t getting along?

Billie: Your marriage is already ruined. You are still married to Lucas, remember?

Carrie: I remember. Lucas and Sami might not be able to forgive me but what about you?

Billie: You don’t have to apologize to me. I wasn’t fair of me to judge you. I ruined Hope and Bo’s wedding once and I had no right to throw stones at you.

Carrie: So can we be friends again?

Billie: (pausing and then smiling) Yes but don’t try anything like this ever again.

Carrie: I won’t.

They hug as Chelsea walks out of her bedroom and goes to the refrigerator.

Chelsea: We don’t have milk. How am I supposed to eat Apple Jacks without milk? (stares accusingly at her mother)

Billie: Come with me to the store then.

Chelsea: Do I have to?

Billie (picking up her purse) Yes now get moving. You can tell me where you got that black eye from on the way there.

Carrie goes to follow them out but Lucas calls out to her from the doorway of the second bedroom. He is fully dressed now.

Lucas: Carrie, we need to talk.

Carrie: Okay …

Billie gives Lucas a questioning look and then she and Chelsea leave.

Carrie: You wanted to talk to me?

Lucas: Yes. Close the door so Sami doesn’t see us and get the wrong idea.

Carrie obliges by shutting the door.

Lucas: When can we go down to city hall and get this thing taken care of?

Carrie: Today if you want. I’m free.

Lucas: I have an important meeting at Titan this afternoon so we’ll have to do it later. How late does it stay open?

Carrie: Five-thirty p.m., I think.

Lucas: Okay come to Titan at four and we’ll drive over to city hall.

Carrie: Do you think that’s a good idea?

Lucas: What?

Carrie: Riding together? What if Sami finds out?

Lucas: She won’t find out.

Carrie: Okay … (she heads for the door)

Lucas: Carrie, when this thing is done with I suggest you go back to Switzerland. Sami is out for blood. She tried to hurt John …

Carrie: I know.

Lucas: Marlena told you?

Carrie: Yes.

Lucas: That should be a fair enough warning that you need to go.

Carrie: I told you yesterday – I’m not going.

Lucas: Why? What is left for you here?

Carrie: You …

***

- Kimberly puts down the phone. She is in shock. Louella stops bouncing Claire on her knee and stares at Kimberly.

Louella: What’s wrong? You look so pale.

Kimberly tells Louella about her conversation with Roman.

Louella: That is awful. Your nephew is going to be so heartbroken.

Kimberly: I k-know. I’ll let him s-sleep for now. He is so e-exhaus-ted. When he wakes up I’ll s-sit him down and tell him the s-sad truth about his mother …

THE END (for now)

Coming up on “Salem Fantasies”:

~ Shawn is devastated to learn of Hope’s condition; he says he must see her before its too late
~ Carrie tries to explain why she’s staying in Salem
~ Abby apologizes to Max for her behavior

Short installment today to make up for a long, long installment on Wednesday. The entire installment will be set around Luke and Kevin's date, so make sure to tune in!

AS THE WORLD TURNS

"Luke & Kevin" - Part 22

Luke looked around the whole room to make sure everything was just right. It all had to be just right, and if Luke had anything to say about it, everything would be perfect. He looked at the table with food already on it, wondering again if that was a good idea. Having the little date catered seemed to be too formal to him, but Lucinda assured him that it would add a touch of class to the evening, and if anyone knew class, it was her.

So there it was. A nice dinner on the table, some chilled soda water in a pail,, and a cheesecake in the refrigerator. There was a good movie in the VCR and all he had to do was press "play" when it was time to watch it. A Barry Manilow compilation CD played softly on the stereo.

Luke sat down on the couch as he snook a quick peek at his watch. Kevin would be there in only about six or seven more minutes. He looked around the room again, this time, however, he was proud of what he saw. He had set it up quite nicely given that he only had one day to plan it all. The room had a nice aura and that was enough to set the mood. How could anything go wrong?

And like some strange, twisted sign, the telephone rang. What kind of omen could that have been? For a second, Luke didn't even want to answer it. But then he thought. Kevin wouldn't know the number to the guesthouse. If he had to call Luke, he could have called him on his cell. Luke felt for his pocket, noticing that it wasn't there. Crap, he thought. He hopped up to answer the guesthouse phone.

"Hello?" he asked.

"Dahling," Lucinda said. "I'm calling to see if everything's a go for this evening."

"Oh! It is, it is. I'm feeling a little nervous, though."

"Oh, for whatever reason why? It's just a little date."

"I know," Luke replied. "But I don't think Kevin and I have really had any alone time in a long while now, so this'll...it'll be a good night, right?"

"Of course it will be. Just have a good time," Lucinda encouragingly. "I wanted to tell you, though, that you must have left your cell phone here in the living room earlier today."

"Oh! That's what happened. I just noticed that it was gone."

"Do you think you have enough time to come up here and get it?"

"Well...I don't really need it...but you know what, I think I better run up and get it. You never know what I might need it for," Luke decided. "I'll see you in a few."

~~~~~~~~~

"Looks like somebody's gonna have to go upstairs and tell Luke that dinner is ready," Lily unenthusiastically noticed. She, Holden, and the girls were sitting down to dinner when she realized the familiar sound of Luke's footsteps coming down the stairs was not there.

Holden looked up from his plate, not knowing what to say. "I...I think he went out."

"Went out? Are you sure? Luke knows that I like to be notified when he's not going to have dinner with us," Lily said, seemingly hurt by Luke's careless decision to ditch dinner with the family.

Holden, not wanting to make anything look uncomfortable in front of Faith and Natalie, let out a small laugh with a smile. "Come on, he's seventeen years old. I'm sure it's more attractive to go out with friends than it is to stay in with his parents and little sisters."

Lily's scrunched up her eyebrows. "It's not that he's out with friends, it's that he didn't call. And, you know what, since he couldn't pick up his phone to give us a call, I think I'll embarass him by giving him a call."

She stood up. "Excuse me, girls. Enjoy your dinner." She marched out of the dining room and into the living room, where she went into her purse to retrieve her phone. She was going to do it. She was going to disregard everything her mother had just told her not too long ago and tell Luke all about what she saw at the mall. She felt that Lucinda could have been right, that she just taking something completely context, but her gut, her instincts...they told her otherwise. She had a duty to fulfill, a duty as a mother, and she knew deep down in her heart that Kevin Davis was not going to get another chance to break her son's heart.

Holden followed her into the living room. "What are you doing?" he asked, in a tone that tried to tell her to stop.

"I'm making sure our son isn't getting attacked by some thugs again. Or worse. Mother told me to start handling things and I am, Holden, I am. The both of you just need to trust me on this one," Lily paranoically replied, dialing in Luke's number. "The sooner this gets out, the better."

"Wait a minute. What do you mean, the sooner 'this' gets out? What is 'this?'" Holden asked.

Lily covered the speaker of the phone. "I saw Kevin and some little...some little thing at the mall today."

Holden understood. "Okay...but is it bad for Kevin to have friends?"

"Friends? No, no problem at all. If they only seemed that way. Friends do not make out in public, Holden."

Holden's mouth dropped. He didn't know what to think.

At Lucinda's home, the matriarch stood with Luke's cell phone in her hand, waiting for him to arrive to pick it up. She looked at the screen at saw that "Not So Lil Lily" was calling. Lucinda knew her daughter well and she knew exactly what Lily's call meant. "I knew she wouldn't keep her mouth closed for long." Lucinda answered the phone. "Dear, you can stop wasting your time."

"Mother? Where's Luke? And why do you have his phone?" Lily asked.

"Your son is paying me a visit, paying a visit to his grandmother. And from the sound of your voice, I can understand why he'd rather be here than there."

Lily ignored her. "Mother, I know you told me not to tell him, but I have to. I just have to. If he doesn't find out now, he'll find out later and it's going to hurt so much more."

"I agree," Lucinda said nicely. "I would agree whole-heartedly if there were any reason to believe that any of this is true."

"I told you. I have a hunch."

"You may have a hunch, but I have a living, breathing person who is telling me that he has never cheated on Luke with anyone."

"You talked to Kevin?"

"I did. And I am telling you, please, darling, don't make the mistake of putting a strain on Luke's relationship with you. That's what it would be, a big mistake."

"What did Kevin say?"

Lucinda sighed. "I called him, dear. I called him and I simply asked him if he was being unfaithful to Luke. Do you want to know what he said? He said that Luke is the one and only person in his love life."

Lily smirked. "Of course he said that. He wouldn't admit to seeing other people, especially not to you. I thought you were smarter than that."

Lucinda was offended. Lily did not just insult her skills. "Oh, ho ho ho! No, you don't! I have proven over the years to have a much better sense of judgement than you, my darling daughter. I can tell when a person is lying and when they are not. If Kevin Davis is cheating on my grandson, I'd know it. I'd feel it!"

"But that's the thing, Mother! I feel it!"

"What you feel is your dislike for a fine young man. What is your hunch grounded in? Why exactly do you feel the way you do about this whole situation?"

Lily thought for a second. When she realized that she didn't have a true answer, she faltered. "You didn't see it! You didn't see the way they were...touching and kissing. You didn't see it, so you can't possibly understand it."

"Okay then," Lucinda began. "Fair enough. Until you give me proof that Kevin is cheating on young Luke, I forbid you to tell Luke about what you saw."

"Forbid?! You can't forbid me to do anything!"

"Oh, but I can," Lucinda corrected her slyly. She loved knowing that she still had some control over Lily's actions, even though her daughter was nearly 40 years old now.

Lily turned to look at Holden, but continued to talk to her mother. "Why do you care so much about Kevin? What do you owe him?"

Lucinda became slightly defensive. "I don't owe him a thing. I just...well I think it is unfair for him to have to not only lose his father, but also lose probably the most important person in his life now, in such a short span of time. No one deserves that. And then, I think about Luke. How would he feel if you told him this and it all turned out to be entirely untrue?"

"That's a risk I have to take," Lily said. "But I know what I saw, and I know what I'm doing. I'm trying my hardest to be a good mother to him and I think I'm doing a good job."

"Fine," Lucinda said. "Fine, but please remember, I thought I was doing a mighty fine job with you, too. And we've already had this conversation, so you know what I'm going to say."

"Yes. I do."

There was a brief moment of silence before Lucinda remembered that Luke would be coming any second to get his phone back. "Now, you won't talk to him at all about any of this?"

"No," Lily reluctantly agreed. "I won't. But when it all comes out, and it will, I'm going to tell him that you kept me from telling him sooner."

"Fine, if that's the way it turns out, great. I'll speak to you tomorrow. Good night."

Lily paused. "Goodnight. I love you."

"I love you too."

Lucinda turned the phone off just as Luke came into the living room. Luckily for her, he didn't see her closing the phone. "I believe this is for you," Lucinda remarked.

"Yes, ma'am, it is," Luke replied. He took the phone from her, but noticed that her spirits were low. "What's wrong?"

Lucinda didn't want him to ask any questions or worry, so she put on a smile and made herself lively. "Not a thing! Does something look wrong? Everything is fine."

Luke didn't understand what was going on, but he smiled anyway. "Okay. I think I'll get back down to the guesthouse before Kevin shows up looking for me. Thanks again, Grandma, really."

"Oh, it's nothing. Really, it's nothing."

Luke became serious. "It's a lot. I felt so bad about our fight last night, so it's really important for Kevin and I to...you know...make up."

"Well, I was partly the blame for the argument, so I'm evening myself out here."

Luke hugged her. "Thanks."

"You're welcome," Lucinda said. "Very, very welcome."

TO BE CONTINUED...

For those curious ... episodes will start on Monday, April 2nd!

The first episode will be Monday, June 28th, 1999

I'll try to do an episode daily (I write kind of far in advance when I really get going) but I can't promise it.

Featured in this episode are Drake Hogestyn (Tim Caldwell), Catherine Hickland (Ruby Caldwell), Justin Hartley (Kyle Caldwell), Alison Sweeney (Jessica Caldwell), Galen Gering (Roberto Rodino), Michael Graziadei (Colton Caldwell), Justin Bruening (Ian Marsh)

Tim, Ruby, Kyle, Jessica, eating dinner

Ruby: The amount of people at of our dinner table just keeps getting smaller and smaller, especially now that Colton has moved into the college dorms.

Jessica: I am still sore from helping him move in, carrying that couch up seven flights of stairs because it wouldn't fit into the elevator was quite the workout.

Tim: Yea! Nice of you to help out Kyle.

Kyle: Uhh, I was busy.

Ruby: What were you doing?

Kyle: Uhhh, I don't remember.

Jessica: yeah right, you just didn't want to help.

Ruby: Have you gone and visited Colton yet and seen his dorm room

Kyle: No

Ruby: You need too.

Kyle: Why, Colton dosn't care if I go there or not.

Ruby: Well I am worried about him, I don't know why he would want to move in at semester. Everyone has probably made thier friends at the beginning of the year.

Jessica: Geez Mom, he is 18 years old I'm sure he can make friends.

Tim: He knows people from high school, he hangs out with them anyways hunny.

Ruby: I know I know, I just wish he would have waited until Aug. to move in.

Tim: He will be fine, don't worry about him.

Ruby: That reminds me I finished washing some of his clothes that he hasn't taken to school yet, Kyle can you take them to his dorm room tonight.

Kyle: Can't he just get them later

Ruby: You need to get up there and see him.

Kyle: I'm sure he doesn't care, why can't you or Jessica do it.

Ruby: Your dad and I are meeting some friends for a drink.

Jessica: I've got a hot date!

Ruby: Your probably not doing anything anyways.

Kyle: Fine! I will do it. I don't know why he can't just wait to get it later.

(Ruby starts cleaning the dinner mess up)

Tim: So Jessica, who is this "hot date" with?

Jessica: His name is Roberto and I really like him.

Tim: Does this Roberto character have a job?

Jessica: Yes dad he does.

Tim: Well I don't like it when you give your money away to these guys and then you have to come to us to pay your bills.

Jessica: He is not like that!

Ruby: He better not be or you will hear from us.

Jessica: Ohh, I already know that.

Ruby: Here are Colton's clothes Kyle, Thank you, Well we are leaving you two have a good night (looks a Jessica) and be careful.

Tim, Ruby and Kyle leave and Roberto arrives

Roberto: Hello Beautiful

Jessica: Oh stop it! Your making me blush.

Roberto: So what would you like to do this evening?

Jessica: We can just stay here and watch a movie or something.

Roberto: Well if you don't mind I have made plans for us, go get into your prettiest dress and then we can leave.

(a huge smile emerges across Jessica's face and she goes and gets dressed. When she comes back she is stunning)

Jessica: Where are we going to go?

Roberto: It will be a surprise!

Kyle shows up at Colton's Dorm room. Colton and Ian are playing a gaming device.

Kyle: Here's your clothes

Colton: I told mom I would get them this week.

Kyle: Well she said you needed them, that's all she seems to be talking about is how you are gone now.

Colton: She did the same thing when Dalton moved away, I was planning on living there while I was in college but she has been driving me nuts, I just had to move out.

Kyle: She better not make me start running all these little errands now that you are gone.

Colton: Yep, I used to have run errands for her all the time.

Ian: Hey Kyle, you wanna go to a party with us?

Kyle: I don't know, I would feel kind of weird since I wouldn't know anyone.

Ian: You know us, oh come on!

Kyle: I guess I don't have any other plans tonight.

Ian: We invited Nathan too so 3 Caldwell brothers can all hang out together, we would only be missing Dalton

Colton: Yeah, that's weird why don't you just go home Kyle.

Kyle: I can go if I want.

Ian: We are going to meet at Nathan's apartment in an hour so you can hang out here until we leave. My girlfriend Michelle is bringing a friend for Colton to meet.

Kyle: Really! Colton have you even dated a girl before in your life?

(Colton doesn't say anything)

Kyle: You haven't!

Colton: You know I was just busy with football in high school I never had time for girls.

Kyle: Dalton was busy with football too and he was better than you, and he had time for girls.

Ian: Colton's just shy (he says teasingly)

Colton: Yes, we all know Dalton is a football star and his girlfriend is weird. (he says annoyed)

Ian: Your just jealous!

Kyle: So is there going to be lots of girls there tonight?

Ian: Oh heck ya! There are some college hotties here.

Kyle: Maybe I should come here more often.

Next time on The Caldwell's

Jessica: Oh my gosh! This is so cool.

Ian: Colton this is Laura

Laura: Your right Michelle he is a good looking!

Same day, evening

Nick watched with amusement as Julian hurriedly threw dirty clothes into a hamper and made up his bed. “Hey Jules, it’s your sister that’s coming over, not the President. You lived with her for eight years, I’m sure she knows what a slob you are.”

Julian looked up and glared at him. “You have some nerve to be lecturing me on cleanliness when you hardly pick up after yourself.”

“I would, but it’s hard to vacuum over a certain redhead, if you catch my drift.” Nick winked slyly at him.

Julian threw off his black T-shirt, chucked into the hamper, and went to the closet to get a dressier shirt. “I think you need to go into the kitchen and have another glass of wine.”

Nick snorted. “I’ve already had four. And why are you putting on your schoolboy shirt? I thought you only wore that when you knew your dad was coming over for one of his social visits.”

Julian just brushed past him and went out the bedroom door. “You won’t need to look sharp man---when Melanie sees me, she’ll forget all about you!” Nick called after him.

Now in the kitchen, Julian opened up the fridge door and took out a bottle of Chardonnay. He pulled a wine glass out of the cabinet and poured the wine into it. And then he downed the drink. He was working on his third when Nick appeared.

“You’re gonna be plastered before Melanie even gets here,” he warned.

“At least I can hold my liquor,” Julian retorted. He finished his glass and then the doorbell rang. His blue eyes widened. “She’s here!”

He rushed to the front door and smoothed down his shirt. He took a deep breath and opened up the door. Melanie appeared before him, a tense smile on her face. “Hi Julian,” she said softly.

He looked at her for a moment, and then engulfed her in a big bear hug. “Hey Sis, I’m glad you’re here.”

---------

Meanwhile, Jeanette Wheeler was rushing to answer her door. “I’m coming!” she called out in a sing-song voice.

She opened it slightly and saw Kyle standing there. “Kyle, what are you doing here?” she asked.

“I need to see Lynda. It’s important,” he replied.

Jeanette let him in. “Would you like something to drink?” She motioned to the small bar in the corner of the living room.

Kyle shook his head. “No. This isn’t a social call. Where’s Lynda?”

“She’s out on the deck. Is everything alright---“

“Is she sober?” Kyle cut in.

“Sober? What kind of question is that?” Jeanette demanded.

Kyle struggled to stay patient. “Look Jeanette, I really need to see Lynda. It’s a family matter.” He headed towards the sliding glass doors, leaving Jeanette standing there dumbfounded.

Kyle saw his soon-to-be-ex-wife sitting in a patio chair, staring out at the choppy waves. The moon hung low in the darkening California sky.

He walked up behind her and gently tapped her on the shoulder. “Lynda,” he said quietly.

She jumped slightly and turned around, frowning when she saw who it was. “Kyle, what are you doing here?” She stood up and crossed her arms defiantly.

“Lynda, I’m not here to fight with you,” he told her. “Melanie’s back.”

Lynda’s mouth dropped open in surprise. “What?”

“Our daughter’s home---and you need to see her.” He gazed at her intently.

Lynda started to shake a little. “You told her you were divorcing me, didn’t you?”

All Kyle could do was nod. Lynda turned around to face the beach again. “That’s why she’s returned. She made good on her promise to come home if you left me. It was the only way you could get her back.” She whirled around, her pretty face filled with anger. “You bastard,” she hissed.

Kyle ignored the insult. “I have missed out on twenty years with Melanie because of you Lynda, because of your boozing and your whoring around, and I couldn’t take it anymore. Surely you could have realized one day I would get sick of it all." His eyes bored into hers.

Lynda became uncomfortable and turned back around. “You were always a saint Kyle.”

Kyle sighed. “Jesus Lynda, don’t do this---“

“No, it’s true!” She faced him once more. “You were the best husband any woman could ever have. You stood by me while I was pregnant with another man’s child. You stood by me when I slept with Sean Carlisle, when I slept with Wes and got pregnant with Shelly, and my drinking…you were there for me. And I took you for granted. I’m such a stupid fool.” She began to cry.

Kyle resisted the urge to take her into his arms and hold her. “You had choices Lynda. You could have been a faithful wife to me, but you chose not to be. Now you’re facing the consequences of your actions.” He ran his fingers through his graying hair. “But I’m not here to scold you. Our daughter is home, and you two need to start working things out.”

“Working things out?” Lynda stared at Kyle incredulously. “She hates me! It’ll be a cold day in hell before Melanie talks to me. Don’t kid yourself Kyle. We will never patch things up.”

---------

Melanie looked around Julian and Nick’s bachelor pad. “Pretty snazzy Julian. How did you manage to snag this place without working?”

Julian turned red. Nick put an arm around him and grinned suggestively at Melanie. “It was my dad’s. He gave it to us as a gift.”

“Very nice gift, “Melanie murmured. “Your dad must be very successful.”

“Nick’s dad is Duncan DeLorean,” Julian piped up.

“I’ve never heard of him,” Melanie said flatly.

Nick gave Julian a look that said “shut up” but Julian ignored it. “He owns Tempted Video. Porno. It’s right up there with Vivid.”

Melanie looked at Nick. “You must be very proud of your father,” she cracked dryly.

Nick played it smooth. “It’s a legit business. Nothing to be ashamed of.” He inched closer to Melanie. “You know, you’re a lot hotter in person. Julian has showed me pictures of you, and they don’t do them justice.”

“What a flattering thing to say,” Melanie replied, but not really flattered. She had met men like Nick right after her husband died; she was used to all the come-ons. It didn’t work with them and it wouldn’t work with this one either.

“Well, if you’re trying to recruit for your father, forget about it,” she told him sharply.

Nick seethed and Julian couldn’t help but smile. That will teach you to come on to my sister, he thought to himself. He put his arms around his sister’s shoulders. “How’s my niece doing? I’m looking forward to spending time with her. I can’t wait to take her to the beach.”

“Kylie is fine. Dad’s friends Rose and Ray are looking after her right now.” She looked down at the carpet. “He went to talk to Ly---our mother.”

“You have trouble calling her mother too, huh?” Julian commented.

“You don’t know what she turned into after you left Julian. She became a lush. All she cared about was when and where she could get her next drink.” She fought back tears. “I don’t want you following in her footsteps.”

“Mel, I don’t think this is the time for one of those cheesy Afterschool Special moments. This is supposed to be a happy reunion, remember?” Julian replied tersely.

“I’m sorry. I’m just worried about you, that’s all,” Melanie almost whispered.

“It’s okay.” Julian kissed her on the cheek. “I think we should hit the town. A lot has changed since you’ve been gone big sister.”

Nick grabbed Melanie’s hand and leered at her. “And I’m just the guy to show you the new hotspots.”

Melanie shook her head. “I think I should just stay in Nick. Julian and I have a lot to catch up on. There’s plenty of time for partying.”

“Nick, why don’t you make some sodas,” Julian said in a tone that meant “get lost.”

He took the hint. “Gotcha.” He gave Melanie another seductive look. “You’re a hard one to crack beautiful, but I’ll soften you up.” And with that, he headed for the kitchen.

Melanie rolled her eyes. “What on earth made you pick him for a friend?”

Julian put an arm around her and smiled. “It’s simple Sis. Dad hates him.”

-------

Tricia DeLorean was home, relaxing outside by her pool, sipping a mimosa when she heard the sound of high heels clicking on the pavement towards her. She knew it could only be one person.

“Hello Cheryl. Are you looking for my husband? If so, he’s not here.” She eased herself out of her lounging chair and turned to face her.

“No Tricia, as a matter of fact, I’m here to see you.” Cheryl Slade replied, tossing aside her red hair.

Tricia gave her a puzzling look. “Me? Now isn’t this a surprise.”

“Look, I’m just going to get right to the point of why I’m here,” Cheryl said firmly. She gave Tricia a stern look. “Have you ever heard of Melanie Mackenzie?”

“Yes, she’s the daughter of that surfer---Kyle Mackenzie. What does it matter anyway? Didn’t she leave because of her mother?”

“Yeah, but she’s back.”

Tricia was still puzzled. “And this concerns me how?”

“I had a nice chat with Duncan this morning at his office. He’s very interested in making Melanie his newest sex kitten,” Cheryl admitted.

Tricia shrugged. “Are you upset because of the competition? Porno is a very cutthroat business Cheryl. I know better than anyone.”

“You don’t have to tell me on how ruthless porno is Tricia,” Cheryl shot back. But I’m concerned Duncan is going to manipulate this girl into joining Tempted, and all for the wrong reasons.”

“Oh!” Tricia exclaimed, coming to a realization. “I get it now! Melanie Mackenzie just so happens to be the sister of Julian Wheeler, your lover, and you’re afraid that if Melanie gets into the business, Julian will follow, and you’ll lose him. Am I right?” Tricia smiled cattily at Cheryl.

“No Tricia, I am not afraid of losing Julian. He knows I can keep him fully satisfied.” It was Cheryl’s turn to smile cattily. “What I am afraid of is this is Duncan’s way of trying to get Julian at Tempted. He has enough problems---one major one being your slimeball of a son.”

Tricia was furious at Cheryl’s remark. “How dare you insult Nick! May I remind you, if it wasn’t for Duncan being so generous and allowing Nick and Julian to live in his condo---rent free I might add---your boy-toy’s butt would be out on the streets.”

Tricia put her hands on her hips. “I think it’s time you left. I need to salvage what’s left of this evening before Duncan comes home.”

“I’m sorry I called Nick a slimeball okay? But you have to watch Duncan. If he keeps up being this manipulative, something bad will happen to him.”

Tricia narrowed her eyes. “Is that a threat Cheryl?”

“No Tricia. Call it a warning.” Cheryl turned on her heels and walked away, Tricia’s bravado starting to fade. She had to talk to Duncan, and before the night dissolved into morning…

---------

Previews for Episode 3:

-Tricia lays into Duncan about his plot to get Julian, and now Melanie into the porno business.

-Melanie goes job hunting, and runs into Alex.

-Cheryl informs Julian about Duncan’s plans for Melanie.

-Rose receives a frightening letter.

NOTE: This blog takes place the first week of 2007.

-Grace and Sam are enjoying being reunited as a family. They're planning a simple and elegant vow-renewal ceremony for close friends and families. Tensions flare between Kay and Charity as they help Grace prepare. Meanwhile, Grace's curse on her enemies begins to take effect in subtle ways.

-Theresa and Ethan have also been reunited as a family with Little Ethan and Jane. Gwen has been exposed, and Ethan knows he's Little Ethan's father. They enjoy ice-skating, snowball fights, sledding, a sleigh ride, and other fun winter activities. Unbeknownst to them, an increasingly-psychotic Gwen is stalking them, determined to kill Theresa and Ethan and raise their kids as her own.

-Eve is upset that her medical license has been revoked and her reputation ruined, but she is determined to redeem herself. She helps TC with his physiotherapy as he continues to recover from his stroke. Meanwhile, Julian becomes convinced that finding his child with Eve is the key to winning her back, so he hires private investigator Frank Lomax to search for him. Ivy, in the meantime, is beginning to fall in love with Julian after bonding over their heartbreaks, and becomes increasingly concerned with becoming Mrs. Julian Crane all over again.

-Tabitha finds herself at odds with Endora, who is continuing to help Fox stay with Kay. Tabitha subtly reminds Charity of the deal she made with Death about Maria, and tries to convince her to leave town again.

-JT has been murdered, and with Luis off the force, Paloma and Fancy are tasked to the assignment. Unfortunately, a crack in the case leads them to arrest Jessica not only for JT's murder, but for the motel murders as well.

-Unbeknownst to her, Sheridan is being guided by a mysterious dark force of evil to keep Fancy and Luis apart. Meanwhile, Fancy's eyes become green with envy when she spots Noah and Paloma in a kiss.

-Finally, Chad and Whitney's break-up sends her reeling into the arms of Frank Lomax. Chad and Jared are seen as pariahs after being revealed as secret lovers, but they're determined to bring peace and understanding to Harmony, along with Simone and Rae.