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  1. Josh
    This little light of mine...I'm gonna let it shine...
    And Now "The Guiding Light"


    The Guiding Light: Episode 042
    Monday, February 05, 2007
    Written By: Dan Gobble & Josh Hawkins

    TGL Opening

    - Cassie is at Company with RJ, the Marler twins and Clarissa. Marina has just arrived and offered to take them back for ice cream and Cassie is finishing off her coffee when Blake returns.

    “Well that was a fast trip.” Cassie sighed motioning for her to sit down, “What happened?”

    “Where are my children?” Blake questioned.

    “I sold them in an auction while you were away Blake.” She answered, “What kind of question is that. Kevin, James and Clarissa are with RJ in the back having ice cream with Marina.”

    Blake threw her head back and sighed heavily, “Thank you for watching them.”

    “Don’t worry about it. Just tell me what happened between you and Ross.”

    “Cassie if I knew what was happening I wouldn’t be in this situation.” Blake sighed heavily again and ran her fingers through her hair, “You know what the worse part of this whole thing is?”

    “No what?”

    “If my mother and Ross were having an affair…I wouldn’t have any room to judge, I done the same thing to her.”

    “Blake,” Cassie attempted to reason with her, “You can’t honestly think that. The situation now is completely different, you have children with Ross, a family and that is something Holly never had with him.”

    “I just can’t help but think that somehow I brought this on myself, karma.”

    Cassie took Blake’s hand and spoke in a friendly tone, “Why don’t you go on back to the carriage house. Let me keep the kids for the rest of the day.”

    “I couldn’t ask you to do that.”

    “You’re not asking, I’m offering. Now go…” Cassie handed Blake her purse, “Go before Clarissa sees you and starts crying again.”

    “You really don’t mind?” Blake asked again and Cassie shook her head no, “Okay, thank you Cassie for everything. I’ll call you later.”

    **********

    - Olivia Spencer Spaulding stepped off the elevator and into a world she wasn’t quite familiar with, not yet anyway. If Olivia had her wish she would be an executive at Spaulding sooner much rather than later.

    “Good afternoon Mrs. Spaulding.”

    “Hello, Sherry. Is my husband busy?”

    “Actually no ma’am, he just finished his meeting with some board members. Should I let him know that you’re here?”

    Shaking her head, “No, that won’t be necessary. I think I’ll surprise him.”

    Olivia pushed open the office door and shut it behind her. “You don’t know what a turn on it is seeing you behind that desk.”

    “Olivia.” Alan spoke in his husky rumble, “I’m sorry I missed you at breakfast Phillip and I had an early meeting.”

    “It’s all right I thought I would surprise you with a late lunch, early dinner.”

    “I can’t. I wish that I could but I have investors coming in about half a hour and our meeting is of the up most importance.”

    Olivia poured herself a drink, “That’s too bad I was hoping you and I could discuss my proposal more in depth.”

    Alan was busy with folders and paperwork Olivia’s words didn’t register to him at first, “Your what Olivia?”

    “My business proposal, the one I talked to you about before Alexandra resigned as CEO of Spaulding.”

    “Oh, oh of course the fashion house division, I remember it now.”

    She slammed her glass down, “Obviously, Alan you don’t. It was an interior decorating division, not a fashion house.” Olivia walked across the office and to his desk, “You gave me your word Alan that after Alexandra’s meeting you would consider this and I don’t think you’re doing anything of the kind.”

    “Olivia…” Alan scolded, “Now is not the time to entertain any new ventures for the company. Alexandra has left me in a bind of sorts, she’s still the COO of the company and it’s hard as hell to get any work done when she is nowhere to be found.” He roared.

    “That sounds like an excuse Alan.”

    “Well quite frankly I do not give a damn about what you think it is Olivia. I am the head of this company and I said the timing isn’t right. I’m up to my neck in bills and paperwork that Alexandra needs to sign and I don’t know where the hell she is at.”

    “That is not my problem Alan. I am your wife, the mother of your child, but God help me Alan I am so much more than that and you of all people know it.” Olivia grabbed her purse and coat from the sofa and headed towards the door, “I will not be some stay at home mother who bakes cookies and admires your accomplishments. I have aspirations Alan, you knew that when you married me and if you won’t help me with them, then I’ll find someone who is able.”

    “Olivia!” Alan jumped from his chair, “Are you threatening me? Because I am not only the head of this company, but also your husband!”

    “You think I’ve forgotten that?” Olivia threw open the door, “I am reminded every morning when I wake beside you, when I put on your ring, all the time that I am Mrs. Alan Spaulding because you won’t let me forget it.” She was about to close the door, “You’re holding my hotel hostage and that’s fine for now, but Alan if you want me to stay a loyal wife you’ll find a way to get my division off the ground.”

    “And what if I don’t Olivia? What are you going to do about?”

    She shrugged her shoulders, “You’ll just have to wait and find out. I’m a ticking bomb Alan and when you least expect I’ll explode. Have a good day, darling.”

    **********

    “You shouldn’t be here.” Blake tied her robe and shut the door behind Ross, “How did you know I would be here anyway?”

    “I ran into Cassie at Company, she told me that you had come back here to think about what happened.” Ross walked across the living room, “What is going on with us Blake?”

    “Seriously Ross? You just seriously asked me that question. For starters, what is wrong is that you’ve been sleeping with my mother and Ross Marler do not stand here in my own home and try and deny it.”

    “That is exactly what I’m going to do Blake because I’m not sure where you’re getting your information from but that is a lie.” Ross defended, “I will not deny that I have been spending time with Holly, but our relationship is completely platonic.”

    “I never thought I would say this to you Ross, but you’re a liar and I have the proof.” Blake reached into her purse and pulled out the pictures, “You and my mother enjoy your platonic time at The Beacon? I hired a private investigator from Oakdale he followed the both of you there.”

    “It’s not what it looks like Blake, you have to give me a chance to explain.”

    “No need for explanations, what goes around, comes around, hmm? But the both of us were to blame for what happened all those years ago, so why am I the one who is being punished?” Blake turned away from Ross, her eyes filled with tears. “I never imagined that it would you that would break my heart like this.”

    Ross grabbed her shoulders and tried to turn her around but it was no use, Blake refused to move. “When are you going to get it through that tough, thick skull of yours Blake, nothing happened between your mother and I, I love you, only you.”

    The carriage house fell silent, “Okay then, if you’re not having an affair with her then why?” Blake faced him, “Why have you been spending all your time with her, why the secrecy?”

    “Your mother and the President of Springfield University are old friends, she and I have been working together in hopes that he would allow me to return to the faculty.” Ross admitted.

    “And that’s all? End of story?” Blake asked. “It’s a wonderful cover, Ross it really is.”

    “You don’t believe me?” Ross opened his briefcase, “Here then you read this. I don’t know what else I can do Blake. Everything that you’re mother I have been working on for the last few months is right there in writing.”

    Blake looked over the paperwork, contracts, recommendations and projected hire dates. “Looks good Ross, but I know a scheme when I see one.”

    “My God Blake, when are you going to realize that you’re completely wrong?” He questioned, “Go, go ask your mother about this, she’ll tell you, the truth.”

    “The truth, Ross…” Blake sighed as she threw open the front door.

    “Yes Blake the truth.” Holly answered from the doorway, “It’s time you heard it all!”

    **********

    - Two messengers from Cedars hospital arrive at Spaulding Enterprises and Lewis Construction at the same time.

    “I have a special delivery from Mr. Alan Spaulding.” One messenger said handing over a large package.

    Across town at Lewis, Billy Lewis received the same type of package!
  2. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 043
    Tuesday, February 06. 2007
    Written By: Dan Gobble & Josh Hawkins

    TGL Opening

    **********

    “Well, well, well, now the party is complete. Come in mother, by all means you’re just the person we wanted to see.” Blake ushered Holly into the living room.

    “What’s going on?” Holly asked slowly, “I could hear you yelling from the car.”

    “Good!” Blake answered, “Ross and I are having a fight…”

    **********

    And Now "The Guiding Light"


    **********

    Vanessa Chamberlain Reardon pulled open her suite door and saw her baby boy standing before her all grown up, a smile wiped across her face and she opened her arms.

    “Oh Little Bill.” She sighed as she squeezed him extra tight, “Oh I’m so happy to see you.”

    Bill kissed her on the cheek and spoke, “You realize that no one calls me that anymore, don’t you.”

    “I’m your mother honey, I’ll call you that until the day I die.” Vanessa beamed, “I’m so glad you were able to make it home before I left.”

    “Me too. You never actually told me why you’re in Springfield. Did you come back for Maureen?”

    Vanessa shook her head, “Of course. Every year. Do you want some coffee, a soda, perhaps?”

    “I’m fine, you however owe me an explanation? What is so urgent that I rushed home from Tulsa for?”

    “What has been your relationship with Michelle lately?” Vanessa asked, “Your father told me that the two of you were dating since her divorce from Danny.” She paused and recalled Michelle and Nola at the cemetery, “Honey have you and Michelle slept together?”

    **********

    "What would you gentlemen like this afternoon?" A waitress at Olivia's bar asked brothers Alan-Michael and Phillip Spaulding.

    "Scotch on the rocks for me and what are you drinking these days Alan-Michael?"

    "Scotch sounds all right by me." Alan-Michael handed the waitress his credit card, "And why don't you go ahead and open us up a tab while you're at it."

    "Of course." The waitress hurried off to get the orders leaving the two newly reunited Spaulding men alone.

    "It appears Europe agrees with you and Lucy. The two of you never looked happier." Phillip was met with an unsettling grin from his little brother, "Or is that just a front?"

    "Looks are deceiving Phillip, you of all people should know that." He smiled at the waitress as she set the drinks down and handed Alan-Michael his credit card back, "Lucy loves Europe, loves it!”

    “It’s not for you?” Phillip asked.

    “At first it was, yeah, but the novelty wears off. At least it did for me anyway.”

    Phillip shook his head and polished off his scotch, “I can imagine that your dislike for your current situation hasn’t been healthy for your marriage.”

    “Things are okay but not great like when we first married.”

    “Change of scenery maybe?” Phillip asked, “Have you and Lucy considered a move…”

    “Back to Springfield?” Alan-Michael interrupted, “You would have thought I asked for a divorce Phillip.” He told her, “Hell just getting her to agree to this visit was hard.”

    “Buzz and her family is here so why was it so hard?”

    “All of you actually. Lucy is afraid that if I step back into this world that I’ll be sucked in.”

    “And are you?”

    “I hate the European offices, Lucy knows that but she just refuses to see my point of view. I want to move back to Springfield, I want to work side by side with the rest of you, I’ve been out of touch with Springfield and the family for far too long and Phillip, you’re right her family is here. I just don’t get my wife sometimes.”

    Across the bar Olivia shoved open the door to the bar and took a quick look around. In the far corner she spotted her stepson Phillip with a dark hair man whom she seen before, but never met.

    “Who’s your friend Phillip?” Olivia purred in sexy tone and devious smile on her lips, “I’ve seen you before but I don’t think we’ve ever had the pleasure. Olivia Spencer Spaulding.”

    **********

    Lillian Raines sat her coffee cup down, “Has Alan mentioned anything about the Cedars project?”

    Beth looked across the table, “I don’t know what you’re talking about mom.”

    “Have you not read a newspaper Beth? Cedars is finally approved the much needed renovations. The board decided to offer the project to both Spaulding Enterprise and Lewis Construction a few days ago.”

    She shook her head, “I don’t know anything about it, I’m sorry. Alan hasn’t mentioned anything but I don’t see Alan much lately since Alexandra left town.”

    “I saw her the day after you and Phillip left for Las Vegas and something was not right with her, she was acting suspicious, more than usual of course.”

    “Of course.” Beth smiled and signed the credit card receipt. “You said Lewis has a shot at the project?”

    “Mm-hhm.” Lillian answered, “Oh no, I know what you’re thinking…”

    “Billy Lewis is a fine man mother. You could do worse.”

    “I have done worse. But Billy and I just friends, we’ve known one another for a very long time, end of story.”

    “Right.” Beth smiled, “For now I’m sure, but I could see something more happening there, if you would just pursue it a little more diligently.”

    “Oh yes, of course like you pursued Phillip?”

    “Don’t you turn this around on me.”

    “Oh, well of course I am, I’m your mother and that’s what I do best.” She didn’t miss a beat, “Have you and Phillip told Lizzie you’ve remarried yet?”

    **********

    “I’ll go.” Holly volunteered.

    “Oh no you won’t.” Blake informed her, “You’re going to stay right here and tell me everything, mother.”

    “Blake thinks that you and I…” Ross began.

    “Shut…your…mouth Ross.” Blake cut him off, “Not one more word. Do you understand?”

    “Blake what’s going on?”

    “Like you don’t already know?” She asked, “Are you sleeping with him? Because he says you’re not but I got some damning pictures that looks like you are, mom!”

    Holly rubbed her throbbing forehead and asked, “Sleeping with Ross? Oh God Blake, do you really think that I would do that to you?”

    “You’ve done a whole lot worse.” She reminded her, “Ross told me his version of the story, so please, by all means out with mom. Are you sleeping with him?”

    Holly shook her head, “No, Blake, I’m not sleeping with Ross. And I can’t even believe that you would think such thing. Do you honestly believe that I would inflict that kind of torture on you?” Holly asked.

    “Then explain…” Blake reached for her pictures, “explain these pictures.”

    **********

    “What?!” Bill was shocked, “Seriously? Mom? Do not tell me that I rushed home and left my job just so you could grill me about my sex life?”

    “I know how it sounds son, but I happened upon some serious information the other day and…just answer the question Bill. Yes or no?”

    Bill gritted his teeth and asked, “I’m not going to answer that, I’m sorry. My personal life, who I sleep with is none of your business mom.”

    “If she’s carrying your child son, then I’m sorry, but it is my business.”

    “What did you say?” Bill questioned, “Michelle’s pregnant?”

    “I overheard her and Nola talking at the cemetery.” Vanessa touched Bill’s arm, “Honey she said that she was unsure of who the father was, you or Danny Santos.”

    “You’re mistaken. Michelle’s not pregnant, she can’t be.” Bill muttered under his breath.

    “So you did and her…”

    “Yeah.” Bill answered, “We did.”

    “And she’s not bothered to tell you yet?”

    “No. She left a few months ago with Ed, the went to Washington D.C. and the two of us haven’t seen one since she’s gotten back.” Bill headed towards the door, “I need to get some air, I’ll be back.”

    “Bill…Little Bill.” Vanessa called after him but he kept walking and she sighed heavily.

    **********

    “Olivia this my brother, your stepson, Alan-Michael.”

    A light triggered in her head, “Of course, little Alan-Michael, I’ve seen pictures. And your father was supposed to introduce the other day at the board meeting but he had more pressing things to take care of.”

    “Yes as a matter of fact he did.” Alan-Michael replied, “Phillip’s been getting me up to speed on everything that’s been happening around here.”

    “Well your brother here is delight.” Olivia cut her brown eyes at him and smiled, “Can I buy you boys another round?”

    “No actually I think we’re fine Olivia.” Phillip answered.

    “I wasn’t talking to you honey. Alan-Michael why don’t you walk me over to the bar buy me a club soda and we’ll get to know one another, better.”

    Alan-Michael glanced at Phillip in an attempt to say, ‘Save me.’

    “We were just about to leave Olivia.” Phillip cut in, “Alan-Michael has to meet his wife, he’s married, much like you and myself.”

    “What?” Olivia questioned, her tone much different than before, “Did you say you’re married?”

    “Phillip?” Alan-Michael questioned. “When did this happen?”

    “Last week.” He answered, “Beth and I went to Las Vegas, spur of the moment and tied the knot.”

    “Well…isn’t that just icing on the cake.” Olivia muttered under her breath and walked away towards the bar. “If you’ll excuse me.”

    Both men watched the very pregnant woman walk away and Alan-Michael asked, “There’s more than meets the eye with you two isn’t there?”

    Phillip shook his head, “You have no idea.”

    “Mrs. Spaulding would you like a drink?” The waitress asked, “Mrs. Spaulding.”

    “Club soda with lime please.” Olivia replied as she watched them leave the bar. “The bitch actually listened to me…” she said under her breath, “damn!”

    **********

    Beth Raines Spaulding shook her head, “We’re not having this discussion again. Lizzie is our daughter and we’ll tell her in due time.”

    “In due time? That’s wonderful, it really is Beth.” Lillian tossed her napkin on the table, “Let me ask you something what are you so afraid of?”

    “I’m not afraid of anything mom. Lizzie just got back from boarding school and she’s adjusting to a new school, college classes at Springfield University, making new friends and I just don’t think that dumping this in her lap before she’s ready is a good idea.” Beth sipped the rest of her coffee, “And my husband happens to agree with me.”

    “Beth…”

    “Mother, we’ve had a very pleasant afternoon, let’s not ruin it with another fight about my marriage and my daughter. Please.”

    “Fine.” Lillian gave in, “But I’m just going to say this one last thing.”

    “And what is that?”

    “You and Lizzie have been on shaky ground since your relationship with Bill Lewis and I would just hate for her to find out from someone else that her parents have gotten married again and kept it from her.”

    “You worry far to much.” Beth sighed.

    **********

    Flipping through them Holly shook her head, “That’s his suite at The Beacon, his home.” She answered, “An opportunity arose for Ross to get his position back at Springfield University, I was helping him. That’s all.” Holly took a seat on the sofa and rubbed her head again, “Blake, you are my everything, my entire world. I love you so much and I would never, never…” she stood to face her daughter, “do anything to hurt you. I swear it.”

    “So…” the truth slowly began to dawn on her, “the two of you, aren’t having an affair?”

    Holly’s eyes closed and she felt lightheaded, “Blake…” she tried to speak but collapsed to the floor.

    “Oh my God!” Blake rushed to her side, “Mom! Mom? Oh my God, Mom can you hear me?” Tears swelled in her eyes, “Ross, call an ambulance. Mom!”

    **********

    Next on "THE GUIDING LIGHT"
    - Ross and Blake worry about their relationship and Holly!
    - Alan-Michael makes takes a drastic step!
    - Marah and Shayne have dinner.
  3. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 044
    Wednesday, February 07. 2007
    Written By: Dan Gobble & Josh Hawkins

    **********

    Shayne Lewis entered Company and noticed Marah sitting in a booth at the back of the restaurant.

    “Hey sis! Why’d you want to eat dinner here? Doesn’t the Santos mansion have a cook?” Shayne joked as he sat down.

    “Ha. Ha. You’re such a little twerp Shayne. For your information, the mansion does have a cook. A fine one at that.”

    “Probably not as good as mom’s cooking,” Shayne hinted.

    Marah bristled at the thought of her mother. “Don’t try to coax me back to hearth and home Shayne. I’m not going back there. Ever.”

    Shayne realized that he has struck a nerve and dropped the topic.

    “I haven’t seen you in a while, little brother. How are you doing?” Marah asked.

    “Everything’s great,” Shayne half-heartedly replied.

    “Are you sure everything’s fine?”

    **********

    Gus Aitoro sat at his desk at the police station staring at a picture of Joe Augustino. “Roy Baker, my father?” he silently pondered. His ringing cell phone broke his concentration. He picked it up and looked at the number.

    “Hello?”

    “Nicky! It’s Eden.”

    “Eden! I was wondering when you were going to call me. Are you okay?”

    “I’m fine, Nicky. Don’t worry about me. Nicky, I’ve missed you so much.”
    “I have too sis. So when do you want me come get you and bring you back to Springfield?”

    “Actually Nicky, my plans have changed. I’m not going back to Springfield…”

    **********

    Alan-Michael Spaulding returned home to his Beacon suite and saw his wife Lucy Cooper lying on the sofa. The sound of the closing door woke Lucy from a blissful sleep.

    “Hey sweetheart, I’m home!” Alan-Michael said and stooped down to kiss his wife.

    “You won’t believe what happened to Phillip Lucy! My brother went off and got himself married!”

    “Married?! To whom?” Lucy asked as she hurriedly got off the sofa.

    “To BETH! You’d think that after so many years, she would learn,” A-M joked.

    “Oh Alan-Michael,” Lucy reprimanded. “So when did they get married?”

    “A couple nights ago, they went to Las Vegas without telling anyone. They must have realized that no one would show up at their fiftieth wedding.”

    “Well, I think it’s romantic,” Lucy replied.

    “Yeah, I guess so. You know Lucy this really makes me glad to be home close to family. Maybe we should stay here longer…”

    “No, Alan-Michael!” Lucy interrupted. “I’ve made up my mind. I’m not staying in Springfield!”

    **********

    Holly took a seat on the sofa and rubbed her head again, “Blake, you are everything to me, my entire world. I love you so much and I would never, never…” she stood to face her daughter, “do anything to hurt you. I swear it.”

    “So…” the truth slowly began to dawn on her, “the two of you, aren’t having an affair?”

    Holly’s eyes closed and she felt lightheaded, “Blake…” she tried to speak but collapsed to the floor.

    “Oh my God!” Blake rushed to her side, “Mom! Mom? Oh my God, Mom can you hear me?” Tears swelled in her eyes, “Ross, call an ambulance. Mom!”

    **********

    And Now "The Guiding Light"

    Opening

    **********

    “MOM!”

    Holly suddenly stirred and opened her eyes.

    “Mom, are you okay?!” Blake asked.

    “Y-Yeah. I’m alright. I just felt a bit light-headed.”

    Holly stands up and puts her hand on her head. Ross and Blake guide her to the sofa.

    “Mom, you scared the hell out of me! Now what is wrong?”

    “I’m fine, Blake. I just had a bit of a migraine. I felt light-headed and fainted for a bit. But I’m okay now.”

    “Holly, your migraines are back? When did they return?” Ross asked.

    “They returned a couple of days ago. I don’t know why. I haven’t had them for about a year, but all of a sudden they came back,” Holly answered.

    “Mom, why don’t we take you to the hospital and ask Ed to check you out?”

    “No! I can handle these migraines by myself. They aren’t as a big a deal as they were before. Now that I’ve finished trying to clear the air, what I need is to go home, take some medicine, and cuddle up in my bed.”

    “Mom, why don’t I drive you home?” Blake offered.

    “Thanks sweetheart, but no. I think I can drive home by myself.”

    Holly begins to leave, but turns around and looks at Blake.

    “Blake, try to give him a chance. He loves you. Don’t shut the door on your love. God knows, I need to learn that lesson myself.”

    Holly walks out, leaving Ross and Blake alone.

    **********

    “Why would you think anything was wrong?” Shayne asked Marah

    “Well, a couple days ago, I talked with Tammy and she told me that you seemed a bit detached, like you weren’t interested in the things you used to be.”

    “Well, she’s wrong,” Shayne, stammered.

    “Are you suggesting that Tammy was lying, Shayne? Is there a problem at school? Is mom getting on your case? Are you having girl trouble? Shayne, you know that you can tell me if you have a problem, I’m your sister!”

    “God Marah, what is this Jeopardy!? There is nothing going on.”

    “I’m just trying to help!” Marah yelled.

    “Well don’t! I don’t need any help because there is nothing going on! What about you Marah? What about your life? You think my life has issues? What about yours?! I’ve never stripped down to my underwear and begged my thuggish boyfriend to rape me! I mean, God Marah, why don’t you just go jump in a fountain already and get it over with?!”

    “What are you trying to say?!” Marah thundered.

    “I’m saying that you are more like mom than you care to admit. You’re pushy, you’re stubborn, and you pry into people’s lives…”

    “I don’t have to listen to this.” Marah gets up from her seat and begins to walk out.

    “…And when the game doesn’t seem to be going your way, YOU want to stop playing…”

    Shayne watched as Marah charged to the door. Shayne glanced at the empty seat.

    “Not everything is about you Marah. I wish I could tell you sis, but you just wouldn’t understand…”

    **********

    “Nicky, I can’t come back to Springfield,” Eden confessed.

    “Why can’t you?”

    “I got a new job in Chicago and it’s helped me to put my life back together. I think that’s what I need right now: a fresh start.”

    “You could get a fresh start here in Springfield…”

    “No, I couldn’t. Not with the entire town against me. I need to be where people don’t know me. Except you, of course, Nicky. Actually, that’s why I called. Could you come and help me move in? I can give you the grand tour. It isn’t much yet, but… I really think I can make a difference here.”

    “Sure, Harley and I can come up this weekend.”

    “Actually…I would prefer if Harley not know where I was. Could you come up alone?”

    “Why don’t you want Harley to come, Eden? You are going to have to see her sooner or later.”

    “Why would Harley want to come up with everything that has happened? It’s better if she just not know.”

    “Okay,” Gus reluctantly conceded. “I’ll talk to her and I’ll be on the first train to Chicago.”

    “Thanks Nicky.”

    “I love you sis.” Gus ended the phone call and wondered whether or not he should have told Eden about his parentage.

    **********

    “I’m sorry Alan-Michael, but I won’t stay here,” Lucy argued.

    “Why not? Our families are here, everything we know is here. Europe is a great place, don’t get me wrong, but I always felt that there was something missing between us there. Maybe being here is exactly what we need to help our marriage?”

    “I don’t know. I just fell in love with the countryside. It was like a new chance to get away from all the painful memories here.”

    “Honey, you might have to get used to it,” A-M confessed. “I sold our flat in Europe and my father has already given my job to someone else.”

    “You did all this without me?” Lucy’s face turned blood red. “Why couldn’t you have asked for my input before shipping me off like one of your possessions?”

    “Honey, I…”

    “Don’t you dare honey me. You can’t stick me under your thumb like your father does. Hell, he probably put you up to this didn’t he? Well, you and Alan can go straight to hell, darling.”

    Lucy stormed out of the suite, while A-M tried to find the words to justify his doings.

    **********

    Blake and Ross stare at each other, wondering who will be the first to break the ice.

    “Not that you know the truth, Blake. Where do we stand? What do we do now?”

    “You didn’t cheat on me again, Ross?”

    “No, I didn’t. I love you. Not Holly, not Tory, not anyone else,” Ross confirmed.

    “I know I should feel relieved, but I don’t. Ross, why didn’t you tell me? I could have helped. I mean, our relationship has been one lie after another, and I know that I have had more than my fair share. But I was hoping that after everything we’ve been through, we could try to tell each other everything. But I guess that isn’t possible.”

    Blake looked at her watch and realized how late it is.

    “Ross, I need to go get the kids from Cassie and when I get back, I don’t want you here. I just, I just need a little bit of time to think things through. Can you give me that?”

    Ross nodded as Blake puts on her coat and leaves. Ross turned to the table and picked up a family portrait. He held it up and tenderly kissed it.

    **********

    Gus and Harley kissed and sneaked into bed. Gus tried to find the words to delicately tell her about Eden’s phone call.

    “Harley, I got a phone call from my sister today. She’s got a new job in Chicago that she seems really excited about. She asked me to come up this weekend to help her move in. I told her I was going to bring you along, but she said that she’d prefer you not to come. I hope it’s okay?

    “Oh. I guess it’s no surprise. It’s not as if Eden and I have been friendly since she came to town.”

    Harley flashes back to when Phillip caught her snooping around Alexandra’s office. She decides to put up a good front so that she can get closer to Vera.

    “I think you should go Gus. It’ll be good for you to see your sister. Don’t worry about me. With Zach home again, I want to spend as much time as I can with him.”

    “Well that was easy,” Gus smiled. “I thought you’d fight me tooth and nail Cooper. Thanks for understanding.”

    Gus and Harley kissed and turned the light off for the night.

    **********

    Alan-Michael sat in the sofa drinking a glass of wine to drown his sorrows. Suddenly, someone knocked on the front door. A-M opened it and saw that it was a messenger with a package. A-M opened the package and read the letter:

    “Alan-Michael, As you know, I have been suddenly called away on urgent business and that it has left the company in dire straights. Included in this letter is my proxy, naming you as the temporary COO of the company. I hope that I can count on you. Alexandra.”

    Alan-Michael looked up from the letter with a smirk.

    **********

    Next on "THE GUIDING LIGHT"
    - Lizzie finds out about her parents!
    - Ed and Holly discuss her migraines
    - Alan-Michael begins to assert his newfound power!
  4. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 045
    Monday, February 12. 2007
    Written By: Dan Gobble & Josh Hawkins

    **********

    A new day dawns in Springfield. Blades of sunlight slice their way through the blinds of the Spaulding mansion living room. Olivia Spencer Spaulding glides down the stairs in her robe and walks to the dining room, where the breakfast tray is set. Olivia pours herself a mug of coffee and sits down.

    She glances over and notices the daily issue of the Springfield Journal lying on the table. She picks it up and reads the Cedars construction article on the front page. “I hope Spaulding doesn’t win this bid. Goodness knows that Alan barely pays enough attention to me these days already,” she thinks. As she assesses her present situation, her thoughts turn towards Phillip, who is now out of her reach. Olivia is so lost in thought that she does not notice Lizzie enter the room.

    “Hey Granny! What’s up?” she asks.

    Olivia smiles. “What did I tell you, Lizzie? Enough with the ‘granny’ stuff. Hell, I’m young enough to be your mother. So what are you doing here, I thought you were going to the Alsten Academy?”

    “I was homesick, so I decided to come back. But speaking of mothers, have you seen mine? I’ve been looking for her everywhere.”

    “I think she’s with your father. You must be so happy for them,” Olivia chagrined.

    “Why? What happened?”

    “You mean you don’t know?” Olivia exclaimed.

    **********

    At Hollybend, an alarm clock blares, waking Holly up. She looks around the room and realizes that she fell asleep again on her sofa. She realizes that her migraine is gone for now and gets up from the sofa. She lumbers to the kitchen like she is anchored to the sofa and starts the coffee maker. She grabs a coffee mug from the cabinet and sits at the table. Outside, the trees sport a thin layer of white coating and the ice cycles dangle from the gutter. Holly stares out of the window, leaving her empty home behind.

    “This must be the winter of my discontent,” Holly wryly remarks. She gets up from the chair and goes to the phone and picks up the receiver.

    “Rhonda, I won’t be able to come into the office today. I’m still not feeling very well. Just tell Adam to hold a column on the front page for the Cedars news and get Tom to get his butt moving on that Boston piece. Okay. Thanks Rhonda.”

    Holly places the receiver back on the table and sits down on the sofa. She spots a picture of Ed Bauer and realizes that she missed their lunch date the day before. She decides almost unconsciously that she needs to go and talk to Ed. She grabs her coat from the closet and shuts the door.

    **********

    The boardroom at Spaulding Enterprises is clogged with stockholders hoping to receive news regarding the company’s fate. Alan sits at the head of a long table with Phillip beside him.

    “So as you can see everyone, our profits rose over the final quarter of the year. We hope to capitalize on new technologies in the pharmaceutical division to keep the company healthy. Does anyone have questions?”

    “I do,” said one of the stockholders. “Alan, where is Alexandra?”

    **********

    And Now "The Guiding Light"

    Opening

    **********

    “What do you mean Olivia? What happened to my parents?” Lizzie asks.

    Olivia realizes that Lizzie doesn’t know that Phillip and Beth remarried and decides to get revenge on Beth for marrying Phillip.

    “You mean you don’t know that your parents remarried a couple nights ago?” Olivia feigns a surprised tone.

    “WHAT?!” Lizzie yells.

    “Yeah, they went to Law Vegas and came back married. I guess it isn’t true. Not everything stays in Las Vegas, huh?”

    “No I didn’t know. Oh my God! My parents remarried?”

    “Yeah, it’s hard to believe isn’t it? I mean, after everything they’ve been through over the past couple years.”

    “I can’t believe this,” Lizzie exclaims.

    “You mean you aren’t happy for them?” Olivia asks.

    “Well…I don’t know. Where are they living, are they here at the mansion?”

    “No, I think they are living at the Beacon for now, I think.”

    Olivia looks at her watch and notices that Lizzie is going to be late for school.

    “But enough about that, why don’t you get to school. You are going to be late.”

    “Okay Granny Olivia!” Lizzie leaves with a grin on her face. She can only wonder why her own parents did not tell her that they were getting remarried.

    Olivia stays seated at the table and eats her toast with satisfaction. She realizes that this plays into her plan perfectly.

    **********

    Holly reaches the back yard of the Bauer house and looks into the kitchen window. She sees Mel going up the back stairs and Ed sitting at the table. Holly knocks on the door and walks in. Ed sees her and gets up to kiss her. He ushers her to a seat at the kitchen table.

    “I realized that I missed our lunch date yesterday, so I had to come over here to apologize,” Holly said.

    “That’s ok, I’m sure there was bigger news in Springfield than our lunch date.”

    “Actually Ed, I didn’t go to work yesterday either. I had to go see Blake. She thought that because I had spent some time with Ross over the past several weeks that I was having an affair with him.”

    “Well were you?” Ed asks.

    “No, of course not. Perhaps it would have been true a few years ago when we were on the outs, but we’ve grown so close over the past few years that I wouldn’t do anything to come between that.”

    “Blake’s grown so much over the past few years hasn’t she?” Ed reflects. “I remember when she gobbled down hotdogs at the state fair.”

    “Yeah, those were simpler…” Holly realizes what she is about to say and changes her mind. “I was going to say that those were simpler times, but I guess they really weren’t, were they?”

    “No they weren’t,” Ed smiles.

    “But anyway, while I was over trying to clear the air, I fainted.”

    “You did?” Ed said curiously.

    “I felt light-headed and then before I knew it I was on the ground. My migraines are back and I’m just not sure why.”

    “Your migraines are back? When did they start?”

    “Well a couple weeks ago, I was remembering Maureen. It was like some slippery slope. As soon as I was looking into the past, everything I thought was dead and buried came rushing back. Roger, the rape, everything. And then my migraines came back.”

    “Did you have any sensitivity to light or sound during the migraines? The last time you had these migraines, you felt drained and wouldn’t leave the house. Have you been feeling depressed again?”

    “Ed, listen, I know you want to go into doctor mode and try to diagnose me, but I’m feeling fine. There are no pieces left for you to pick up. You can unsaddle your white charger Galahad; he won’t be needed today,” Holly smiles.

    “What is it with me?” Holly continues. “Every time I have a problem, I unconsciously come to you. But right now, I want to try to settle a problem myself for once.”

    **********

    “Alan, where is Alexandra?”

    “We are still trying to locate my sister, but until we find her, we must all be patient. There has to be a good reason for her absence.”

    “We can only wait a little bit longer, Alan. There are stacks of documents waiting for Alexandra’s signature. If we can’t get her back as soon as we can, this company is going to halt to a standstill.”

    “We understand your frustration, but please be aware that we are trying our best to make up for my sister’s absence.”

    The stockholders leave the boardroom, leaving an angry Alan and Phillip alone in the room.

    “Where the hell is Alexandra?” Alan roared. “Does she not realize the mess she’s created? If she knew she was going to do this, then why did she take my company away in the first place? And damn those stockholders! Don’t they know that our hands are tied?”

    “Dad, don’t get too upset. Remember, your heart. You may have faked the last one, but the next one may be real. Now we have to move fast. Aunt Alex’s disappearance doesn’t bode well with the Cedars construction proposal.”

    “I know that Phillip! I’m going to find Alex if I have to look everywhere.”

    **********

    Lizzie rushes to her locker at Springfield High School. Her mascara is smudged with tears. Tammy and Marina, approach her to try to help.

    “Hey Lizzie, what’s wrong,” Tammy asked.

    “Oh nothing… My parents got remarried awhile ago.”

    “But what’s wrong with that?” a confused Marina questioned.

    “They went to Las Vegas without telling anyone and got remarried. I didn’t find out until this morning and even then, it wasn’t my parents who told me. You know, I came back so that I could reunite with my family. But my family keeps drifting farther and farther apart and I’m not sure what I can do to stop it.

    **********

    “If you need me, Holly, I can help you.”

    “You’re such a glutton for drama Ed. I’ve tried so hard to put my damsel in distress days behind me. This is my turn to prove to myself that I can do it.”

    “Holly, you think I need drama in my life? Hell, if I wanted it, I could ask my daughter how her day went.”

    “How is Michelle doing?” Holly asks.

    “She’s going through the motions, but she still doesn’t talk about anything. She’s caught between two men that she loves and she can’t see any way out of it. You know, when Maureen died, I vowed that I would protect her and keep her from feeling such pain again. Now, I look at her and I can’t help but feel like a big failure.”

    “Ed, don’t. You have done all you can. You can’t lock her up in her room until she’s 50. You have to let her make her own decisions and make her own mistakes. It took me awhile to come to that conclusion with Blake.”

    Holly walks to the kitchen counter.

    “God, I could use a drink. Just one.”

    “Holly, there is an AA meeting tonight at Cedars. I was thinking of going. Why don’t you come with me? At the very least, you can prop up my problems.”

    “For you, anything.”

    Ed and Holly kiss, as Mel walk in.

    “Ed, you ready?” Mel says.

    “Yeah Mel. Sorry Holly, I have to go to Cedars. Want me to pick you up at 8?” “Sure,” Holly answers.

    **********

    “Well, I’m going home. See you dad.”

    Phillip leaves the room. Alan takes a glass and throws it across the room.

    “Damn you Alexandra. I just know you planned this. How dare you take my company away from me and then strip it bare in front of my eyes.”

    Alan-Michael dashes into the room.

    “Dad, meet the new COO of Spaulding Enterprises.”

    **********


    Next on "THE GUIDING LIGHT"
    - Josh offers a job to Marah!
    - Rick finds pregnancy vitamins.
    - Lucy makes a cryptic phone call.
  5. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 046
    Tuesday, February 13, 2007
    Written By: Josh Hawkins & Dan Gobble

    **********

    “You know I just can’t believe who crass Eden was.” Lucy sighed, “But at least she’s out of your life more or less.”

    Harley shook her head, “You know I really don’t care. Eden has been nothing but trouble since she got to Springfield, having her gone is a blessing!”

    “I have to admit I thought you would be fuming mad. Her not wanting you to come to Chicago with Gus, you’re taking it very well sister dear. I’m proud of you.” Lucy smiled.

    “Now…this is a sight!” Buzz sat a pot of coffee down, “How are my two favorite girls doing today?”

    Lucy reached up and kissed her father on the cheek, “Daddy!” She smiled, “What are you doing serving coffee?”

    “Madison told me there were two beautiful blondes out here.” Buzz laughed, “And I just took a shot in the dark, hoped it was my girls. It does this old man good to see the two of you together like this, you know.”

    “You’re not old, stop saying that.” Harley lectured.

    “Just keep telling me that okay honey.” Buzz kissed the top of Harley’s head, “I’ve got to get back to the kitchen, in the meantime why don’t you convince your sister to stay a while longer.”

    “Daddy…” Lucy warned as he quickly walked away leaving them alone, “So he’s really doing okay? Regular check-ups, keeping the stress minimal all of those things?”

    “He tries. Believe it or not but it’s Marina who keeps him in line most of the time.”

    “I believe it.” They both laughed, “Oh.” Lucy sighed, “You know Daddy may get his wish after all.”

    **********

    “Hi Dad.” Marah took a seat at a table near the windows of Towers. “How are you?”

    “Good. I have to admit I was surprised that you called this morning.”

    “I don’t any problems against you.” She revealed.

    “Not what you said when you left.”

    “I know what I said and I’m sorry. Mother was right you’ve been very good to Shayne and I.” Marah smiled, “Can you forgive me?”

    Josh opened his menu, “Let’s just order lunch.”

    **********

    Blake walked across the living room of the Carriage House in her light pink bathrobe and pulled open the door for Cassie. “Come in.”

    “Are you sick?” Cassie asked and Blake shook her head no, “Then why are you still wearing your robe in the middle of the afternoon?”

    **********

    And Now "The Guiding Light"

    Opening

    **********

    “You’re going to be staying longer?”

    She shook her head, “Yeah, because you will never guess what my husband did?”

    “No what?”

    “He sold our flat in Europe. Right out from under my nose, without consulting me. He told me last night and he also told me that we’re probably going to be staying in Springfield, indefinitely.”

    “I just can’t believe Alan-Michael would do something like that. That’s a play right out of Alan’s book, Phillip even, but not Alan-Michael.” She paused and thought back to her time with him, “What did you say?”

    “Nothing, I told him he and Alan could go to hell and then I stormed out. Went and stayed with Frank and Marina.”

    **********

    Blake shrugged her shoulders, “Beats me. After I got the kids off to school this morning I just didn’t feel like getting dressed.”

    “So things didn’t go well last night?” Cassie asked, “Oh my God, are Ross and Holly really having an affair?”

    Blake shook her head again. “My mother was helping Ross get his position back at Springfield University and for some reason it was this big secret.”

    “You’re kidding? That’s all that was going on?” Cassie was in shook, “Why didn’t Ross just tell you that?”

    “I don’t know and even he doesn’t know.” Blake answered. She shook her head, “I just don’t know what to do Cassie. On the one hand he wasn’t cheating on me but then again on the other he kept something about his life, something important from me, that’s huge.”

    “But you have to pick your battles Blake.” She said in a supporting tone, “Life is short, I know that better than anyone. So I think you should forgive Ross and move on to the next chapter, whatever that might be.”

    Blake shook her head and shrugged her shoulders, “I love him, so much. That is not the problem, it’s never been the problem. First it was Tory and now he’s kept this from me. I just don’t know what to do Cassie, I just don’t know!”

    **********

    “Oh Lucy…I’m so sorry.”

    Tears swelled in her eyes, but she quickly blinked them away, “I guess we should just be glad that you’re finally away from that controlling and manipulative family.”

    Harley rolled her eyes.

    “Still not getting along with Vera?

    “No as a matter of fact. Plus, there’s more to it than that.” Harley leaned in closer to Lucy, “Vera is hiding something. What it is, I don’t know but I intend to find out what.”

    “Something tells you will too.” Lucy looked at her watch, “You better get going.”

    Harley glanced down, “Damn.”

    “Wait…what do I do about Alan-Michael?”

    “Hit him where it hurts. Fight power with power. I got to run, love you.”

    “Love you too.” Lucy replied as a smile wipes across her face and the wheels in her head began spinning even faster.

    **********

    “Then stop acting like a child! I didn’t raise you to be some spoiled, little know at all girl. You’re acting like your mother wished Tony had died, but that is not the case, but you know it.”

    “So I’m guessing that you’re not going to help me? You’re going to turn your back on me just like Reva done all those years ago.”

    “You just don’t get it do you?” Josh shook his head, “No I’m not going to help you. You’re living with Danny and he has no problem in forgiving your mother, doesn’t hold her responsible yet you do.”

    “Thanks Daddy.” Marah mocked as she stood to leave, but Josh grabbed her arm, “Let go of me.”

    “If you want my help then you’ll work at Lewis, just like Bill did. We’ll put you in an office and you start tomorrow.”

    She shook her head, “I don’t think so.” She jerked loose from his grip, “Thanks so much Daddy!”

    **********

    [The role of Michelle Bauer Santos will now be played by Bethany Joy Galeotti.]

    Michelle held her cell phone on her shoulder and walked down the backstairs of the Bauer house, “Danny….Danny listen to me, I’m on my way. Yes tell Robbie I’ll be right there.” She closed her phone and dropped her purse on the table with a thug.

    “Hey there.” Rick came through the backdoor, “You look like you’re in a hurry.”

    “Robbie has a doctor’s appointment in about five minutes and I still have to go pick him up from Danny’s.” Michelle explained.

    “Why doesn’t Danny just take him?” Rick asked.

    “You know that would be the logical thing to do, but I’m soon learning post-divorce that Danny isn’t logical.”

    “Been telling you that for years Michelle.” Rick replied taking a bite out of an apple. “You better hurry up.”

    She grabbed her purse from the table, her keys from the by the door, raced across the kitchen and kissed Rick on the cheek, “Mel told me to remind you that Valentine’s Day was quickly approaching. I don’t think she wants you to forget again.”

    “It was one time.” He defended. “Be careful.”

    “Bye!”

    Rick grabbed a bottle of water from the refrigerator and went over to the kitchen table with it and the apple. After he took a drink he went to screw the lid back on but it feel to the floor. He bent over to pick up but what he found was something totally unexpected.

    “Prenatal vitamins?” He asked himself knowing they could only belong to Mel or Michelle. “M. Bauer.” Rick read as he slowly shook his head, “Mel…”

    **********

    A light snow dusted the streets of Washington D.C. as a roaring fire was going in a town house just east of the capitol building. A middle age woman sat at her desk in a study down the hall and heard the phone ringing, “Judith would you answer that please.”

    “Hello.” The housekeeper answered, “May I ask who’s calling?” She laid the phone on the table and went into the study.

    “Ma’am you have a telephone call, a Mrs. Lucy Spaulding.”

    “Thank you.” The woman replied and picked up the phone close to her desk, “Lucy, its Hope. How are you?”

    **********


    Next on "THE GUIDING LIGHT"
    - Alan is shocked by Alan-Michael's news
    - Rick confronts Mel about the vitamins!
    - This Week: Love is in the Air
  6. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 046
    Wednesday, February 14, 2007
    Written By: Josh Hawkins & Dan Gobble

    **********

    “I’m afraid you’ll need to repeat that once more.” Alan-Michael slid the document down the long table, “When did you receive this?”

    “This afternoon.” A-M answered, “A messenger delivered it to my suite. Aunt Alexandra has given me full power and privileges as Chief Operating Officer of Spaulding Enterprises, effective immediately.” He grinned.

    **********

    “Lucy you don’t know how good it is to hear your voice.” Hope began, “Everything is all right isn’t it?”

    “For the most part, I suppose.” Lucy sighed, “How’s Mike doing?”

    “Wonderful, I’ll make sure to tell him that you asked.” Hope took a seat by the roaring fire and watched the white flakes fall from the sky. “Lucy you don’t sound like everything is all right. You sound like you’ve been crying. Are you sure everything is okay?”

    “Depends on how you would define ‘okay’” Lucy answered, “The last time you visited Alan-Michael and I you told me to call if I ever needed anything.”

    “Of course, Lucy you’re really starting to worry me. Is my son all right?”

    **********

    Michelle glanced at the clock on the wall across the room and looked down at Robbie, “You’re getting tired huh?”

    “Mommy you promised to take me to the store.” Robbie cried, “I need Valentine’s Day cards from my class.”

    She kissed him on the top of his head, “We’re about ready to go. Mommy is just…” she looked over the dining room table and on the floor, “for something she lost.” Michelle looked under the cushions, “I dropped my purse right here.”

    “Mommy!!” Robbie cried, “Let’s go.”

    “Okay. Okay, come grab your coat.” She looked around the table once more and decided she would look more tomorrow, “You ready?” Michelle and Robbie headed towards the door and Mel pulled it open.

    “Hey Robbie.”

    “Hi Aunt Mel, we’re going to the store.”

    “Valentine’s Day cards.” Michelle rolled her eyes.

    “That sounds like fun.” Mel smiled, “Have you seen Rick?”

    “Yeah, actually he is in the living room waiting on you.” Michelle explained, “Bye.”

    **********

    And Now "The Guiding Light"

    Opening

    **********

    Olivia threw open the door with one hand and held her stomach with another, “Thank you for bringing my bags over Nigel.” She pointed to the dresser, “And I’m assuming that you’ll keep my whereabouts to yourself unless asked?”

    “Of course Mrs. Spaulding. Will there be anything else?”

    “No.” She tipped him and locked the door behind him.

    She rubbed her stomach, “Just you and me kiddo. Your momma here likes to think she’s in control, all the time, but I’m going to let you in on a little secret,” she lowered her voice, “I feel a little lost, confused. There are just so many men in our life…”

    Olivia stopped and opened the door to find Cassie standing there, “One of the bellmen at the front desk said you were here. Trouble in Spaulding paradise?”

    **********

    Alan looked over the document. It was dated the date Alex resigned as CEO and he would send it upstairs to the lawyers to make sure it was an authentic document.

    “Did the messenger say anything?” Alan questioned completely oblivious to the fact that his problems were over for now. “Alan-Michael did the messenger say anything? Where he received this document? Perhaps where Alexandra is?”

    “Are you worried because you genuinely care Dad or are you just upset and angry because she made me COO of Spaulding?”

    “I care about my sister Alan-Michael and I want to know that she’s safe.”

    “You’re so typical. I’ve been away from Springfield for almost ten years and in that time I thought you would have changed, but Alexandra was right to come back and take the company away from you. When are you going to change Dad?”

    “You’re right.” Alan admitted, “I’ll worry about Alex later the good news here is that we have an operating COO, business can continue.” He paused, “Have you told your wife this joyous news yet? Because you won’t be able to live in Europe and serve as COO.”

    “For your information I haven’t told Lucy, we had a fight right before the messenger arrived. But I’ve already taken care of that.”

    “Oh?”

    “I sold our flat over there, Alexandra and I have been in talks for over six months to move me back here permanently, to Springfield and the company.”

    **********

    “He and I returned to Springfield a about a week ago, at Alexandra’s request. Now she’s gone, Alan is in control of Spaulding Enterprises and Alan-Michael went behind my back and sold our home in Europe.”

    Hope adjusted in her chair, “That doesn’t sound like something Alan-Michael would do. Is something more going on between him and Phillip…” she paused, “oh God…do I even say it, between him and…Alan?”

    “I wouldn’t ask if I didn’t think there was another way or if it weren’t important.” Lucy paused, “Hope would you come to Springfield and try to talk some sense into your son…” Lucy choked up, “before he throws away the best thing that ever happened to him.”

    She thought for a moment, “Oh Lucy…that’s an awful lot to ask of me. I haven’t been there in years.”

    “Hope…” Lucy tried to reason, “Please.”

    “All right then.” She agreed, “I’ll take the next flight out. Just make sure that no one knows I’m coming.”

    **********

    Mel draped her coat over the back of the chair and walked towards the living room, “Honey, Michelle said you were wanting to see me?” He didn’t reply, “You know I thought we could go to Towers for dinner.”

    “Did my dad come home with you?”

    Mel flipped through the mail and dropped it on the table, “No he and Holly were going to an AA meeting tonight.” She glanced up, “Something the matter Rick?”

    He reached into his pocket and pulled out the pregnancy vitamins and sat them on the table, “You what to tell me what these are?”

    Her eyes were locked on the vitamins and in the moment she knew they didn’t belong to her because she hadn’t gotten far enough in her pregnancy. “Rick…” she said softly, “those aren’t mine.”

    “Then explain why your name is on the label Melissande.” Rick yelled, “Do not lie to me Mel, not in our house.”

    “The pills aren’t mine Rick, but you’re right about one thing…I have been lying to you for months.”

    **********

    “Lucy gave us all the impression that she was against that. Alan-Michael if you think that fulfilling Alexandra wishes will be to much of a strain on your marriage then I suggest you reassign the proxy to someone else.”

    “You would like that wouldn’t you? Maybe give them to Phillip because he’s always been your favorite hasn’t he Dad? If you had ever paid any attention you would’ve known how much I hated Europe, Alexandra knew.”

    “Point taken I suppose, but you know that Alexandra will eventually return, your little power play here will only be temporary.”

    “But I will stay true to her vision and to how she would want things run. And I know that she would want to question your every single move. She would also make you answer to her on every single move you made so until she does return, be prepared to answer me Dad.”

    Alan-Michael grabs the proxy from the table and heads out of the boardroom, leaving Alan alone to again question where Alexandra is at and what she is really up to.

    **********

    “You could say that. Alan’s acting like a stubborn jackass.”

    “Um, Olivia, that’s not an act. He is a stubborn jackass.”

    “Is there a reason you’re here? Besides to belittle my husband, I can get away with it. You not so much. I maybe pregnant but find me a mud pit and I’ll take you down.”

    “You tell yourself that.” Cassie laughed, “Listen there was a reason I came by to see you. Our executive administrator walked out last night after her shift, apparently you pissed her off yesterday with one of your little tirades.”

    “She was incompetent anyway, no big loss.”

    “It is a big loss, it’s huge Olivia!” Cassie corrected her, “You’re going to be on maternity leave in a few months, spring break is right around the corner, proms and parities. Not to mention that the summer months are right around the corner.”

    “What would you have me do Cassie?” She questioned. “I’ll take care of it in the morning, a simple ad in the Journal will solve our little problem.”

    “You better solve it and fast.” She headed towards the door, “So the Spaulding house full of drama?”

    “Drama should be our surname, I should be Olivia Spencer Spaulding-Drama.” She teased, “But to answer your question yes there is drama…” a smile wiped across her face.

    “Olivia! You like it don’t you? You devious, devious woman.”

    **********

    Rick turned away from her, “What?”

    “You remember when I was in the hospital a few months ago? When Roxie hit me in the parking garage at Cedars?”

    “Of course, I won’t ever forget that.”

    “A few days before the attack I fainted at Cedars. Lillian was there she examined me and she told me…” Mel’s words trailed off, “Lillian told me I was pregnant…” tears swelled in her eyes and fell down her cheek, “and I made her promise she wouldn’t tell you until I figured out how.”

    “You did what?” Rick asked in almost a whisper. “Answer me Mel!” He roared, “I know you heard me!”

    Hot tears rolled down Mel’s cheek, “Rick…” Was all she was able to say.

    “Was it my baby Mel? Is that why you kept it from me?”

    Mel’s black hair spun in the air as she sent her hand across Rick’s face, “How dare you.” She slowly uttered, “I didn’t tell you that I was pregnant because you had just returned to work. Because we had just gotten married and did you forget Rick that you almost died months early?”

    Rick stood holding his cheek as Mel continued, “Not everyone is a cheating slut like Harley, my dear.” She told him, “I need time to deal with the fact I was pregnant and before I had the chance to tell you…I miscarried because some crazy lunatic ran me over.”

    “Mel…”

    “Don’t you say another word, because you’ve already said enough.”

    “You’re not innocent in all of this Mel.” Rick lectured, “You should not have kept this from me, I had a right to know.”

    “And I had a right to decide when I thought it was best to tell you.” Mel fired back, “But I was afraid that you would blame me somehow for this, but I’m sure those thoughts never crossed your mind, did they?” She headed towards the kitchen, grabbed her purse and jacket.

    “Where are you going?”

    “I won’t stay here tonight. I’ll be at my parents.” Mel said as she walked out leaving the door standing wide open allowing the February air to sweep through the house.

    **********

    Next on "THE GUIDING LIGHT"
    - Lizzie confronts her parents!
    - Tammy and Marina set a plan in motion.
    - Valentine's Day arrives in Springfield.
  7. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 047
    Wednesday, February 14, 2007
    Written By: Dan Gobble & Josh Hawkins

    **********

    At the Spaulding Mansion later in the afternoon, Phillip works at a mahogany desk in the Spaulding living room. He looks over at a picture of Beth and smiles. Beth walks down the stairs and sees Phillip working hard. She sneaks up to him and puts her arms around his neck and kisses him. “Happy Valentine’s Day,” she chirps.

    “Happy Valentine’s Day sweetheart,” he answers. “Honey, I hope you don’t mind moving back into the mansion. We’re going to need room for the kids while we look for a house.” Phillip turns toward Beth and gives her a kiss. “I swear we will be out of here and away from my father as soon as possible.”

    “What is Alan doing? And for that matter, why are you working here?”

    “I needed some peace to get some work done,” Phillip replies. “The board members are pulling their hair out waiting for some word on Aunt Alex. I think dad has hid under his bed to keep them from hounding him. I couldn’t find him anywhere. So I figured that since it is Valentine’s Day, I could do a little work here and then take my lovely wife to lunch.”

    Phillip and Beth kiss, but he can see that there is something on Beth’s mind. “What’s wrong honey?”

    “Phillip, have you heard anything from Lizzie? I missed her this morning. I keep calling her cell phone, but I can’t get through.”

    “Well she’s at school,” Phillip says as he tries to calm Beth down.

    “No she’s not. She had a half-day today. Phillip, I’m really worried about her. We haven’t even told her that we got married. She’s going to hate that we kept this a secret from her.” She pauses and looks at her watch. “Where could she be?” she says with increasing anxiety. Beth goes quickly over to the phone.

    “Beth, who are you calling?”

    “I’m calling Frank,” Beth anxiously replies as she fumbles through the buttons.

    “Honey, Lizzie is hardly missing. She’s been gone for a few hours. There’s no need to call a search party yet.”

    Just as Phillip says this, Lizzie walks through the door of the Spaulding Mansion and sees her parents together.

    “Lizzie! Where have you bee?” Beth exclaims. “You were supposed to have gotten out of school at a quarter till noon, what were you doing? Do you know how…”

    “I’m not going to answer any of your questions until YOU answer one for me!” Lizzie interrupts.

    **********

    Ben Reade enters Company with a bouquet of flowers and a box of chocolates. He sees Marina over in the corner taking an order from a customer. When she finishes, he runs over and gives her a kiss. Marina notices the flowers and chocolate and gives him another kiss.

    “Have I outdone myself or what?” Ben asks.

    “You have. I just want to know what is with the chocolate. You want to make me fat?” Marina jokes.

    “Of course not. Now, I have to go meet Bill at Towers, but when I get back, you will have my undivided attention.”

    “Remember we have to make an appearance at the Beacon dance tonight,” Marina reminds him.

    “But do we have to go?” Ben whines. “You know that I can’t dance. I have two left feet and I don’t want to step on those gorgeous little toes of yours.”

    “Yes, we do. I promised Tammy that we’d make an appearance. We need to be there at 7, so don’t be late.”

    “I won’t,” Ben replies.

    They kiss and Ben runs out of Company as Marina watches him.

    **********

    Holly sits at her office at the Springfield Journal newsroom. Suddenly, the buzzer on the telephone rings. “Holly, a delivery just came for you,” the secretary announced.

    “Thanks Rhonda, I’ll be right there.”

    Holly walks into the main newsroom and sees a bouquet of flowers on Rhonda’s desk. She picks them up and reads the card.

    “To cheer up a special woman on a special day. Ed.”

    Holly smiles and takes them back into her office. She places them in a vase in her office and sits down.

    **********

    And Now "The Guiding Light"

    Opening

    **********

    Marah stumbles into the Santos Mansion after a long day of apartment and job hunting. She spots Danny on the sofa reading a book. She goes to him and hugs him.

    “Marah, find anything yet?”

    “No, nothing. No one seems to want a fashion maven in Springfield. The only job offer that I got today was from my father. But I turned him down. I’m just not ready to go back home yet.”

    “Well, it sounds like you have had a long day and I know exactly what you need.” Danny smiles.

    **********

    “Lizzie, don’t speak like that to your mother. Answer the question. Where were you?” Phillip reprimands.

    “Not before I know why the two of you decided to run off to Las Vegas and get married without telling me!” Lizzie yells.

    “Who told you that?” Phillip asks.

    “It doesn’t matter who told me. What matters is that neither of you even bothered to consider me in this equation.”

    “We tried to call you…” Beth explains.

    “LIAR!” Lizzie explodes.

    “She’s not lying honey. We tried calling you. But there was no buildup to this. It was an impulsive decision that we made and we’re sorry that we didn’t include you,” Phillip soothes her temper.

    “This is why I left in the first place. This family is so disjointed now that we can’t even tell the truth to one another. You to lie to each other, you lie to grandpa. You lie to us. This house is a cesspool and I can’t take it anymore. And yet,” she laughed sarcastically, “I came back because I was feeling homesick up there. I come back and find my family in worse shape than when I left. How can we move on with our lives when no one wants to change?”

    “Honey, we are trying to change. That’s why we got married: to give you and James a normal family. Once we get out of here and into a house of our own, we can have the normal family just like you want,” Beth explains.

    “No you guys have not changed. You couldn’t even bother to tell me before you made a major decision and I can’t forgive you for this, either one of you. I’ve decided to go back to Alsten before I transform into another ghoul like the rest of this family,” Lizzie cries as she runs out the front door. Beth walks to Phillip, who puts an arm around her to comfort her.

    **********

    At Towers, Bill sits at the bar drinking another round of liquor. Ben walks in and sees Bill’s disheveled appearance. He walks to the bar, as Bill is about to put the glass to his lips and takes the glass away from him.

    “From the looks of it, I think you’ve had enough Bill,” Ben says. “What’s wrong? Why are you drowning yourself in beer?”

    “What could be wrong Ben? Guess what? I may or may not be a father.” Bill slurs.

    “Whoa, wait. What do you mean, “may or may not?” Ben asks confusedly.

    “Our dear friend Michelle is pregnant and I am one of the lucky daddy candidates. But there’s more, because what makes this even better is that Danny Santos is the other.”

    “What! You slept with Michelle?” Ben exclaims.

    “Yup. Unfortunately, she must not have thought that I could be elected because she didn’t even bother to tell me. With a twenty-year friendship under our belt, you’d think that she could confide in me. But that’s not the case, evidently,” he says bitterly.

    “I can’t believe this. Who told you about this?”

    “My own mother,” Bill laughs. “She somehow found out before I did and blindsided me with the news. OF course, she could be lying. But I don’t think this is one of those times.” He finishes in a hushed whisper.

    “Have you talked to Michelle?”

    “Nope. She’s been avoiding me like a bad cold. That’s why I think that all of this is true. Why else would she not want to talk to me?”

    “So what are you going to do now?” Ben inquires.

    “I heard that Michelle is going to be at the benefit dance at the Beacon. I’m going to talk to her then. I need to hear her say it. I need to find out what is going on.”

    **********

    Tammy arrives at Company and Marina drags her to the booth.

    “Did you convince your mom?” Marina whispered.

    “Yes, I was.”

    “Good. My dad is out of town at a conference so I need to ask Grandpa if I can go.”

    Buzz sees Marina and Tammy talking quietly and wonders what is up.

    “What are you two plotting over there?” ha asks.

    “Nothing much, just a slumber party. Tammy’s got us a suite at The Beacon.”

    “Yeah, Buzz, we’re having a girls’ night out.”

    “What about Ben, is he going to be there?” Buzz asks.

    “Nope, no boys allowed tonight,” Tammy replies.

    “Good. But have you told him. What does he think about that?”

    “Ben’s busy tonight anyway. Alexandra Spaulding is missing in action so Alan has Ben on search party detail,” Marina lies.

    “Well, since you’ve been so good around here, I guess you deserve a night out. Just don’t let me down. Your father would kill me if anything happened to you.”

    “Okay Grandpa.” Marina kisses him on the cheek and Buzz goes in the back of the restaurant.

    “We did it! So what are your plans for tonight Tammy?”

    “I don’t know. But if we don’t want our cover blown, I need to tell Shayne about our plan.”

    “Just as long as he doesn’t spill.”

    “Oh he won’t, if he wants to live that is,” Tammy jokes.

    They laugh and continue to plan their Valentine’s night.

    **********

    “What are you planning?” Marah asks.

    “Just go upstairs, there’s something that I want you to see.”

    Marah runs upstairs. After a few minutes, she comes down in a beautiful new dress.

    “Oh, this is so gorgeous Danny.”

    “So I’m guessing you like it huh?”

    “Of course I like it. Thank you so much.”

    Marah gives Danny a hug. “I think that dress needs a little breaking in tonight. Will you go with me to the Beacon dance tonight?” Danny asks.

    Marah smiles and tells him yes. They kiss and pull away quickly as they both look at each other.

    **********

    Holly looks at the card again and then decides to get back to work. She can feel her migraine beginning again, so she gets up and takes some medicine before an assistant brings in a copy of the new issue of the Journal.

    “Here’s tomorrow’s copy Ms. Lindsay.”

    “Thanks John.”

    The assistant leaves and Holly looks at the paper. The front story is about a rape case. A man abused and raped his wife. As she reads the article, she flashes back to the past. She cringes as she feels Roger’s touch on her. As the vision becomes more and more real, Holly yells. “Roger! Stop! Roger please don't! Roger, please!” A visiting Ed hears Holly scream and runs to her.

    “Holly, Holly. Snap out of it. It’s going to be okay.”

    Holly begins to snap out of her dream and sees Ed.

    “Ed to the rescue,” she says. “I’m sorry, I just had a dream, that’s all.”

    “It sounded like you were saying Roger’s name. What’s wrong? Have you heard anything from him or something?”

    “No, I just. I saw tomorrow’s cover story about the rape trial and I remembered the day that Roger raped me. I could feel his hands over me and I…”

    “Holly, why don’t you leave early and take a nap?”

    “I don’t know Ed. It’s just been one of those days, ya know. I’ve spent so much time at home that it is almost more depressing to be there. I mean, at least here, I can bury myself in work.”

    “Here, I have an idea that will take your mind off of everything. Since we’re officially a couple now, why don’t I take you out for a nice dinner and then we can make an appearance at the Beacon tonight. How does that sound?” Ed offers.

    “It sounds good. I could use a little dancing. By the way, I got your flowers earlier. They really brighten up the room don’t they?”

    “Yeah. They do. So I’ll pick you up at 7?”

    “Sounds good,” Holly replies as she kisses Ed.

    **********

    Beth and Phillip scramble to get ready in time for the Beacon dance. Phillip opens a drawer to find his lucky tie, while Beth gets ready in the bathroom. She comes out in tears and Phillip tries to comfort her.

    “Sweetheart, it will be okay. I know it. Lizzie just needs to vent and soon she’ll get it out of her system. She’s wanted us back together for years and now here we are. Now we can all be a happy family.”

    “I guess so, but the anger in her eyes. It just, I couldn’t bear to see her so hurt. We should have included her. She just got home and I don’t want to see her leave us again. I wish we could just make this up to her.”

    “We will, but now, we have a party to go to. I don’t want anything to ruin our first Valentines Day back together,” Phillip whispers lovingly into her ear. They kiss and finish getting ready for the party.

    **********

    Later that evening, the Beacon hotel is adorned with beautiful decorations in preparation for the big event. The guests begin to arrive one-by-one. Beth and Phillip, Lillian and Billy, Ed and Holly, Reva and Josh all arrive. Michelle searches around the hotel for Bill as a mysterious woman approaches the front desk. “I need to reserve a room for the evening please."

    An attendant behind the desk typed on the keyboard, "And your name?"

    "My name is..."



    "Hope Bauer!”

    :Fades to Black:

    **********


    Next on "THE GUIDING LIGHT"
    - Hope makes herself known to Lucy and A-M!
    - Love is in the air as several couples make love!
    - Lizzie and Braxton meet!
  8. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 049
    Tuesday, February 27, 2007
    Written By: Dan Gobble & Josh Hawkins

    **********

    Beautiful decorations adorn the Beacon Hotel for the benefit Valentine’s Dance. Couples dance and dine in Olivia’s Bar, which has been transformed for the occasion.

    Phillip and Beth sit at one of the tables sipping wine and toasting to each other.

    “To us and to a new beginning,” Phillip toasts.

    “Here, here!” Alan interrupts as he walks over to the table. Alan notices that Beth has something weighing on her mind.

    “What’s wrong Beth? I thought you would be enjoying this?” Alan asks.

    “Someone told Lizzie that Phillip and I got married without us telling her first and now she is furious with Phillip and myself,” Beth acidly remarks.

    “I’m sorry to hear that Beth. I wonder who could have told her.”

    Beth replies, “Oh, I think that you know.” She turns toward Olivia sitting at another table and glares at her. Olivia smiles and gives her an innocent-looking wave.

    **********

    The Role of Shayne Lewis is now being played by Ben Hogestyn.

    At another table, Shayne, Tammy, Ben, and Marina crack jokes while waiting for their food to come.

    “Ok, so I turn and look at Marah, who is wearing like the ugliest dress on Creation and I say ‘Marah, why are you wearing that, it looks like Ralph Lauren vomited all over it,’” Shayne teases.

    Tammy hits Shayne in Marah’s absence while Ben and Marina laugh. Marina looks at her watch and nudges Tammy.

    “Why don’t we go freshen up before the food gets here?” she asks Tammy.

    They get up and head to the restroom. “Be nice, boys,” Marina calls back to them.

    “God, women. One of them goes to the bathroom and it sets off a chain reaction,” Shayne jokes.

    The guys laugh and look at each other, wondering what they can talk about to break the awkward silence.

    “So, read any good books lately?” Shayne asks.

    Meanwhile, Tammy and Marina stand in front of a mirror in the bathroom. Marina takes a package out of her purse and opens it, revealing rows of birth control pills. She pops the pill in her mouth and drinks the water to wash it down her throat. She then looks at her face in the mirror. “I’m so ready for this Ben,” she says seductively.

    **********

    At another table, Alan-Michael and Lucy silently sit. A-M decides that now is as good a time as any to give Lucy her gift. He slips a small package over to her side of the table. However, Lucy is still too mad to take it and open.

    “Honey, please. I know you’re angry at me, but could we just put things aside for tonight?”

    “Alan-Michael, what you did was horrible. You can’t buy off my anger this time.”

    Lucy flashes back to her phone call with Hope and wonders if she did the right thing. She pauses and picks up the gift.

    “I’ll give you tonight Alan-Michael, but you better dazzle me.” She smiles and opens the gift.

    Meanwhile, Hope stands at the main desk of the hotel to reserve a room.

    “And how long will you be staying?” the clerks asks.

    Hope thinks and says, “I think I’ll have to get back to you on that…”

    **********

    Reva and Josh sit at the table eating and reminiscing. Reva’s smile drops when she thinks of her estranged daughter.

    “Oh Joshua, If only everything was okay with Marah and I, my life would be perfect. I wish she could forgive me.”

    “Marah’s a stubborn one. Kind of like her mother,” Josh grins. “She’s more like you than she is willing to admit.”

    Reva laughs, “Well that’s always a bad sign.”

    “No that’s not what I meant. Marah will come around, I know it. We have raised our daughter well.”

    “Well, at least you raised her,” Reva laments.

    “Let’s not get started on that subject. Here, we’ve made our appearance here. Why don’t we go to Towers now. I have a special night planned for us,” Josh hints.

    Reva and Josh rise to leave, but when they do, Marah and Danny enter the room!

    **********

    And Now "The Guiding Light"

    Opening

    **********

    After reserving a room, Hope tries to find her way to the party. When she discovers the party is in the hotel bar, Hope pauses and wonders if she should go in. However, she realizes that her son’s welfare is more important and begins to walk towards the party when she is stopped by one of the hotel guards.

    “I’m sorry Ma’am, but you can’t go in without an invitation.”

    Hope replies, “But you misunderstand, the invitation is under my son’s name, Alan-Michael Spaulding. I just arrived a bit late.”

    The guard checks the registry and allows her to go in.

    **********

    “Why do you think Olivia told Lizzie about your marriage?” Alan asks.

    “Why does she do anything Alan? She’s probably been plotting this since she heard about our wedding. Phillip’s off the market and she wants revenge,” Beth quips.

    “Well, I will deal with Olivia,” Alan replies.

    “I would appreciate it if you would.” Beth retorted.

    Alan walks over to his wife and asks if he can sit down with her.

    “Olivia, did you get my gifts today? I had them sent overnight.”

    “Yes, I did. They were beautiful. You really outdid yourself Alan. Now I’d appreciate it more if you would give me that division at Spaulding I wanted, but I’ll take any small measure of devotion I can get,” she hints.

    “Anything to please my wife,” Alan says, ignoring the hint.

    “You know Olivia, I had the weirdest conversation with Beth and Phillip. Lizzie has found out about their marriage and they seem to think that you are responsible. You haven’t heard anything about this, have you?”

    “Of course not Alan. What could I have to gain by exposing their marriage? Phillip’s out of my evil clutches anyway.”

    “Olivia, I think the pressing question is what do you have to lose?”

    **********

    Ben and Shayne continue to make idle talk as they wait for the girls to return. Somehow the conversation turns to women.

    “You seem to make Marina happy. I haven’t seen her like this in awhile. Please, just don’t hurt her,” Shayne says.

    “Marina has really changed me Shayne. Before I met her, I was such a jerk. I’m sure your sister has told you that. Love changes you. I know that sounds hollow and cliché but sometimes it is true. I’m sure you know what it’s like,” Ben replies.

    “Yeah, I do,” Shayne says uneasily.

    “You know man, maybe it’s time for you to go out looking for a relationship? Just turn on the ol’ Lewis charm and you’ve got her,” Ben says.

    “I just…I just don’t want to look for one right now. I want to wait until after high school. This year is so hectic with getting into college. A romance would just get in the way,” Shayne stammers.

    “I understand man. Oh speak of the devil,” Ben jokes.

    Marina and Tammy return to the table and look around the room to see who is around. The waiter comes with their food and they sit around and eat. Marina looks at her watch and sees that it is getting rather late.

    “It’s time guys. Ben, wait for about ten minutes and then come up the back stairwell. Shayne knows where it is, he will take you there. Don’t be long,” Marina winks.

    When they are sure that no one is watching them, Tammy and Marina get up from the table and sneak out of the party. Ten minutes elapse and Shayne and Ben get up and go to the back stairwell.

    “Here it is man. Have a good night,” Shayne says as Ben runs up the stairs to continue his Valentines Day.

    **********

    Reva and Marah lock eyes, but Marah ignores her and guides Danny to an empty table. Reva walks over to the table to try to talk some sense into her.

    “Listen sweetheart, I know that you are going to hate me every other day for the rest of your life, but I just want you to understand that I never meant to hurt you,” Reva explains.

    “Well you did anyway,” Marah coldly replies.

    “I didn’t mean to hurt you Marah.”

    “Intentions, mother. You do know what they say about intentions, right: they pave the road to Hell. Now I’ve think we have said everything that was to be said. I will never be able to forgive you for what you’ve done. I noticed you and dad were leaving, so why don’t you get the hell out?”

    At this, Reva explodes.

    “Tell me Marah. Why can Danny forgive me for the loss of his cousin, a person he thought of like a brother, while my own daughter turns her back on me? I know that I have made many mistakes over the years and I know that that I have made some bad decisions. However, I had no idea that Richard’s death would cause Roxanne to go insane. My mind wasn’t even thinking that. My main thought was about Richard and the pain that HE was suffering. I know you think that I am a horrible person that ingratiates herself into other people’s lives, but that is not true!” Reva yells.

    “Tony’s death is just the final straw. You’ve never given me a thought. You certainly didn’t when you drove off the bridge, when you were torn between us and your royal missing years, or when you, hell do I even have to go on? To you, we are an inconvenience that you just have to ignore and we’ll fade into the background. When, I ask, did you EVER give us a second thought?” Marah retorts.

    Josh tries to calm down the situation before it spirals out of control. He takes Reva by the arm and takes her out of the Beacon while everyone looks at them. He tells Marah that he’ll call her later as they leave. Danny and Marah look at the entrance that they disappeared through and sit down to rejoin the dance. Everyone turns their attention to their own party as the situation settles.

    “Maybe you should forgive your mom Marah. You know that she never meant for Tony’s death to happen. She knew that you loved him and if you will remember, she went to bat for you with Josh. Just give her a chance. She knows she made a mistake without you rubbing it in,” Danny explains.

    “Danny, I don’t want to talk about it. That’s not what this night is about,” Marah replies.

    Danny realizes that Marah does not want to go on with this topic and changes the subject.

    “Yeah, tonight is a very special night. I was actually going to ask you tonight if you would want to, I mean, I know that it is still soon after Tony’s death. But would you want to, you know, make love with me?”

    “Danny. I’ve been wanting to do that since December,” Marah smiles as they kiss.

    **********

    Shayne and Tammy return to the house with pizza and movies to spend the rest of Valentines night. They go up to Shayne’s bedroom and begin to eat.

    “Ah, this is so much better.” Shayne remarks as he gulps down a slice of pizza. “I love your mom’s hotel, but I’ve never been one to eat food I couldn’t pronounce.”

    “Shayne that narrows it down quite a bit. You’re vocabulary is pretty limited.”

    Shayne grins and puts on the movie.

    “Tammy, I fart in your general direction.” Shayne recites in synch with the movie. To this Tammy laughs and hits Shayne with a pillow. “Stop blabbering, I can’t hear the movie!”

    “I tell ya Tam, who needs Valentines Day when you have a date with Monty Python. Those damn card companies and their campaigns.”

    “This is nice. But don’t you ever get tired of being so alone. I mean, what happened to that one girl that you were with about a year ago? Scared her off?” Tammy grins.

    “Nah, she just wasn’t my type. That’s all.”

    “It’s just. I worry about you Shayne.”

    “Well, I’m fine. And why did you go sic my sister on me for? If you wanted to report on some drama, you should have got Marah and my mom together, Shayne asks.”

    “I’ve noticed you Shayne. You act so distant, like your mind is about a million miles away. I worried about you and I thought she should know. You and Marah have always had such a great relationship.”

    “Had being the operative word there. I had a strong relationship with my sister, but I can’t help but feel her slipping away. I guess that’s what happens when we grow older,” Shayne laments.

    “You can’t let that happen Shayne. You have to try to get her back. There has to be a way that she will forgive Reva.”

    “Nope. And Marah can hold a grudge better than anyone I know. She still hasn’t forgiven me for when I put the frog in her pants at Uncle Rusty’s house. She seems oblivious to anything that doesn’t concern her. She just doesn’t understand,” Shayne sighs.

    “Are you sure that there’s nothing wrong Shayne?” Tammy asks, noticing his facial expressions.

    “No there’s nothing. Stop worrying or you’ll put a damper on our little party. Now watch the movie, they are just about to discover the Knights of Ni.”

    **********

    “What do you mean by that Alan?” Olivia asks.

    “I think, Olivia, that you have nothing more to lose. Is Beth right, did you tell Lizzie simply to get back at Phillip for leaving you?”

    “Alan, I would never tell Lizzie. And even so, as you said, Phillip is gone. He means nothing more to me. You can relax, I have been a good little girl scout.”

    Alan shoots her an “I’ll be watching you look,” as he gets up from the table. Alan notices a familiar face approach Alan-Michael and Lucy.

    “Hello darling,” Hope says to a stunned A-M.

    “H-Hi mom! What are you doing here?” A-M asks.

    “I’m here to save the day sweetheart. It seems that since I’ve been gone, Alan has been making you in his own image and I’m hear to put a stop to it. I received a rather disturbing phone call from your wife, saying that you stole a classic move from Alan’s playbook. Is this true?”

    A-M angrily stares back at Lucy.

    “You tattled on me to my mother?” A-M demands.

    “Yes. And I am not one bit sorry that I did.”

    **********

    Twenty times, I’ve tried to tell you. Twenty times, I’ve cried alone. Always I’m surprised how well you cut my feelings to the bone.

    Ben and Marina kiss beside a bed in a Beacon suite. Ben lowers her gently on to the bed and they begin to make love.

    Don’t want to leave you really. Just wanna break the ice. Do I look silly to you when I yield to your advice? When you say we belong to the light, we belong to the thunder.

    Josh brings Reva back home to their bedroom. Josh takes his hand and wipes a tear from Reva’s eye and moves close to kiss her. Reva takes off his shirt and they walk towards the bed.

    We belong to the sound of the words we’ve both fallen under. Whatever we deny or embrace for worse or for better. We belong, we belong together.

    Beth and Phillip cap off their first Valentines Day back together back at their room in the Spaulding mansion. Phillip takes Beth into his arms and places her down on the bed. He undresses and gets under the covers.

    Maybe it’s a sign of weakness that I don’t know what to say. Maybe I just wouldn’t know what to do with my strength anyway. Have we become a habit? Do we distort the past? Now there’s no looking forward and there’s no looking back.

    Alan alone in the dark of the Spaulding study thinking about the events of the evening. He puffs out a smoke ring from his cigar. Olivia walks in and goes to Alan’s chair and puts her arm around him

    Till we say we belong to the sound of the words we’ve both fallen under. Whatever we deny or embrace for worse or for better. We belong, we belong together.

    :Fades to Black:

    **********


    Next on "THE GUIDING LIGHT"
    - Lucy and Harley take off!
    - Michelle's world crumbles down.
    - Is Ed seeing Marueen?
  9. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 050
    Wednesday, February 28 2007
    Written By: Josh Hawkins & Dan Gobble
    Vera and Harley at the house sitting in silence. Harley is tucking in the boys when the telephone begins to ring, Vera answers and takes a message. She gives it to Harley who returns the call from Henry Coleman in Oakdale. Henry tells her that he worked overtime, which will cost her some serious coin. Harley tells him whatever he wants, just as long as he got the information. Henry tells her that he tracked down Alexandra to the Spaulding house in Bar Harbor, Maine. Harley thanks him and says he’ll be getting cash soon. After she hangs up the phone Vera questions who that was and Harley tells her it was an old friend from the police academy.

    Lizzie enters Towers alone on Valentine’s Day, intent on having a dinner all alone. After she sits down and sees other couples enter the restaurant she thinks about her parents and upset at being alone. She goes to leave, but bumps into a very handsome man that is Dr. Braxton O’Dell. He tells her that they have to stop meetings this way!

    Bill arrives at The Beacon front desk and asks if they have seen Michelle Bauer Santos. The clerk behind the desk hands him a key, after Bill is gone upstairs, Danny picks up something from the front desk…Bill arrives at Michelle’s room and she says that they have to talk and Bill says he knows…just then Danny and Marah enter the room, stunned to find them there.

    **********

    And Now "The Guiding Light"

    Opening

    **********
    Ed is preparing to leave the Bauer house when he sees Mel sitting in the living room alone. He asks if her and Rick have plans tonight and she says that they don’t have much to celebrate. Mel reveals that she told Rick everything and has come clean, Ed says he’s unsure of what that is but he’s glad she did. Mel thanks Ed for being there and sends him on his way. Later a delivery man arrives with roses, Mel answers and there is a note from Rick’s RX pad, Mel is moved to tears and goes into the living room holding the note. Through her tears she see Rick arrive, he walks over and takes her in his arms. She questions if they are going to be okay and he tells her he’s not sure, they have a lot of repairs to make but they’re going to make them together!

    Danny and Marah quickly try to excuse themselves but Michelle is also anxious for them to leave, but Bill quickly puts a stop to them leaving. Bill then questions what Marah is doing with Danny and she is quick to remind him that is none of his business. Bill says that isn’t but what Michelle has to say will effective both he and Danny. Bill tells Michelle that he’s learned her secret, Danny questions what secret, Michelle is clearly upset and finally through her tears reveals that she has been keeping a secret, a terrible secret that will turn her life upside down and change one of their lives. Marah says she is sick of the dramatics from everyone and asks what the hell Michelle is talking about…Michelle reveals that she is pregnant and she is not sure of whom the father of her baby is!

    Lizzie and Braxton decide to have dinner together. They talk and she learns he’s an intern at Memorial and she tells him that she is a senior in high school. Braxton admits that he knows that because they’ve met before. Lizzie inquires about when, Braxton reveals that he was her masked dancer during the Richard Winslow Benefit, Lizzie is embarrassed and then later leaves, but before she does she gives him her telephone number, Braxton insists on walking her to her car and Lizzie agrees. In the parking garage, Braxton kisses Lizzie before she leaves.

    Ed arrives at Towers looking to meet Holly, even though she has stood him up again. He telephones her and leaves a message, as Ed is finishing his club soda he sees a woman walk across the restaurant and Ed pays close attention to her, he watches her board the elevator and whispers, “Maureen.”

    Bill becomes angry that Michelle kept this information from him and storms off…Marah goes after him but Bill insists that she doesn’t want him to interfere in her life, then she needs to do the same and he storms off. Inside with Michelle, Danny tells her she needs to find as soon as possible and if the baby is his then he’ll do right by the child, but he’s moving on with his life and it’s one that includes Marah and not Michelle, just like she wanted. He storms out, leaving Michelle alone with her baby…she sees the courtesy roses from The Beacon in the vase on the dresser and throws them against the wall!

    A-M, Lucy and Hope go back to their suite. Hope explains that Lucy called her because A-M seems to have been sucked back into Alan’s world at Spaulding and she wanted to make sure that he still had a level head on his shoulders. A-M assures her that he does and that it is late, Hope should head on over to the Bauer house and they’ll talk more tomorrow. Hope says she is tired and that will talk, because she’ll be back bright and early. Hope leaves and A-M and Lucy fight about getting her getting his mother involved, Lucy defends that she didn’t know what else to do. A-M tells her she could learn to like Springfield and respect his wishes, something that she hasn’t done in a very long time. Very bad fight…Lucy tells him to leave, but A-M refuses so Lucy leaves and goes to Harley’s.

    Danny and Marah make love, despite everything that has just went down with Michelle.
    Next on "THE GUIDING LIGHT"
    - Harley & Lucy Find Alexandra.
    - Shayne's world begins to change!
  10. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 051
    Tuesday, March 06, 2007
    Written By: Josh Hawkins & Dan Gobble

    **********

    The cool spring wind ripped across Shayne and Lizzie’s face as the shuffled to their next class at Springfield University.

    “I still can’t believe you talked me into taking another class.” Lizzie playfully pushed Shayne, “Between this, my parents and high school dramatics I’m going to die before graduation.”

    “Has anyone ever told you that you’re a little to dramatic Lizzie?” Shayne joked as they both spotted their destination, “Oh thank God my feet are killing me.”

    “Did you do anything exciting last night? Something risqué, something from the book Reva Shayne perhaps?” Lizzie teased.

    **********

    “You survived the most romantic day of the year?” Dr. Ed Bauer asked as Ross took a seat across from him.

    “I would hope so.” Ross rolled his eyes, “It was me, cold take-out, legal briefs and some news show on CNN.”

    “Ouch! Still no luck with Blake then?” Ross shook his head no and Ed continued, “You haven’t given up have you?”

    “Hardly. Rose, chocolates and her favorite movie…” Ross explained.

    “Ross…” Ed sighed heavily borderline lecturing, “That’s amateur. Are you an amateur? How many women have you wooed in your day? I think you’re past flowers and candy, don’t you?”

    “Okay mister-know-it-all. What would you suggest?”

    **********

    Danny had opened the patio doors and the sun was shining through as Marah rolled over in bed and felt the warm empty spot where he had been laying. She thought back to last night and smiled, it was everything she had imagined it would be, her first time with Danny.

    Marah sat up in bed and saw a plate of muffins and coffee, “Danny?” She called out for him, “Danny?”

    “On the balcony.” He answered as Marah tied her robe, poured herself a cup of coffee and walked to him.

    She kissed him on the cheek, “Mm, good morning!” She said shyly, “How are you?”

    He smiled back at her and winked, “I’m good. More concerned about you though, you’re okay with what happened last night aren’t you?”

    “You mean Michelle?” Marah asked, “Or what we did afterwards.” She flirted.

    **********

    And Now "The Guiding Light"

    Opening

    **********

    “Go big. Dazzle her…”

    Ross stopped him, “Ed, did you just say dazzle?” His eyebrows raised, “Let’s stop discussing this, I see your point. Please don’t ever say that again.” He laughed, “But you are right that roses and candy isn’t going to win Blake back.”

    “I know that I’m right. And I know what it’s like to keep a huge secret from the person that you love the most. But Ross, you have an opportunity, one that Maureen and I never had, don’t screw it up.” He warned.

    He shook his head, “We went through so much with Tory, and I do not know why I kept my job offer from her. The trust is gone and the fact that we may not be able to regain it back scares the living hell out of me.”

    “Like I said…”

    Ross held up is hand to stop him, “Enough about me, let’s talk about something else, say you for the timing being. How are things with Holly, you know her migraines have returned again.”

    “She refuses to let me help her, says she is no damsel in distress.”

    “Well she’s not. How did we get mixed up with these wonderful, yet complicated women?”

    Ed shook his head, “I have no idea how we got so lucky, but we did.” Ross smiled and shook his head, “There is something that I wanted to talk to you about and after I say it you’re going to think I’m crazy.”

    **********

    “Your now free to move above the cabin.” Lucy and Harley heard the captain say over the intercom on the plane.

    “So you really called Hope?” Harley sipped her drink “Just taking a wild guess but I don’t think Alan Michael appreciated that did he?”

    Lucy rolled her eyes, “Well he wasn’t over the moon about the whole thing, no. I wanted Hope to come back she had miserable timing, Alan Michael had just given me my Valentine’s gifts…”

    “Ouch. What happened, anything exciting?”

    “Hardly. Hope warned him about Alan’s devious ways and told him that she hoped he had his head on straight and then she left.” Lucy handed her trash to the flight attendant, “That of course escalated into an argument about us and how I don’t respect his wishes.” She rolled her eyes, “I told him to leave and when he didn’t I did and here we are.”

    “I’m no one to judge or even offer advice on the mommy front.”

    “That’s true.” Lucy agreed, “So when was Gus coming back from Chicago?”

    Harley glanced at her watch, “About two hours ago. He should be home by now and no doubt Vera is spilling the beans about my departure.”

    “She is a strange woman that’s for sure. You know she came into Company a few morning ago and I swear to you she was flirting with Dad and Frank!”

    **********

    “Nope, mom has the Reva playbook locked up tight. We can’t peek until we’re over the age of twenty-one.” He smiled, “Ben and I had a few beers and played video games at the house.”

    Lizzie cut her eyes to him as his cell phone started buzzing, “Your pants are ringing stud.” She laughed, “For some reason I have a hard time picturing you and Ben, of all people kicked back drinking and racing cars.”

    Shayne finished his message, “Well believe it. What about you? How many hearts did little Miss Spaulding break?”

    “You’ve been doing that a lot lately, more than usual.” Lizzie noted and then answered, “Anyway I only broke one heart.” She blushed, “Do you remember me talking about the guy I met at the benefit your mother and aunt hosted?”

    “The masked stranger?”

    “Yep, that’s the one!” She answered as Shayne held open the door for her, “Thanks. Anyway I’ll have to tell you all about it and who it was after class.” She gushed as the professor began to call roll.

    The professor begin calling the roll as Shayne settled into his seat, “This is going to be awhile…”

    “Bowden, Derek.” He heard the name called out, “Derek Bowden.”

    “Here.” Shayne heard a familiar voice answer and he immediately set up.

    “Can’t be?” He whispered under his breath, “Derek.”

    **********

    “Oh God! Something is not right with her and Alexandra, I can feel it, and I just pray I’m right you know.”

    “So did you tell Vera where you were going?”

    “No! I left Gus a note in our bedroom and locked the door behind me when we left.” Harley took a deep breath and gazed out the window at the clouds.

    “You ready for this?”

    She shook her head, “You know I think so. I want the truth, but apart of me does not want Gus to be related to that family.” Harley took Lucy’s hand, “How?”

    “How what?”

    “How is that you and I manage to find every Spaulding man…”

    “Excluding Alan…” Lucy laughed.

    “And fall in love.” Harley shrugged her shoulders, “Thank God Alan didn’t have any daughters or else Frank would be in trouble!” She finished as both women laughed.

    **********

    “Okay.” His interest peaked, “Ed…”

    “On Valentine’s before Holly and I had dinner and before she arrived I saw a woman, who looked just like…” he paused and thought a second, “just like Maureen.”

    Ross stared, speechless and searched for the right words, “Maureen?” He finally spoke, “Your Maureen?”

    “I know what you’re thinking, because I’ve been thinking the same thing since it happened. Ross it was like an out of body experience.”

    “Were you able to speak with this woman?”

    Ed shook his head, “She got on the elevator and left before I could catch up to her. This is just to surreal, I know that it’s not Maureen, but seeing her has stirred up something that I thought I had put behind me.”

    “Would you even want to see this woman again? Talk to her I mean?” Ross asked.

    Ed thought, “Part of me says no, but another part does. She has Maureen’s face Ross, how could I not want to talk to her. Hear her voice…”

    “You want me to do some digging?” Ross suggested, “I can have some friends of mine look into, see what they can find.”

    “Okay thanks, Ross I appreciate it.”

    **********

    “Afterwards.”

    “Honestly…because we have to be completely, one-hundred percent, beyond a shadow of a doubt honest with one another. I will not have it any other way, do you understand me Danny?”

    He shook his head, “Nothing but the truth. Believe it or not I want to do this right. No lies, no hidden agendas…”

    “No mob!” Marah interjected, “I won’t be tangled up in that again, I refuse.”

    “I can try Marah, that’s all I can promise you.”

    She shook her head and sat on Danny’s lap, wrapping her arms around his neck she spoke quietly, “I feel a little guilty.”

    “Why?”

    “Tony was your cousin and maybe, just maybe Reva was right, perhaps I should forgive her.”

    “I don’t want you to forgive your mother on my account.” Danny told her, “Those demons are yours and you are going to have to come to terms with them and that includes Tony.”

    “It just seems like I can’t catch a break.” Marah sighed. “Michelle.”

    “We’re going to catch a break.” Danny told her, “This situation with Michelle is going to resolve itself in time, we just have to be prepared for the consequences. I come with a lot of baggage.”

    “Oh I know that. I come with plenty of my own. I can held Michelle and I can win Robbie over and if the baby is yours then we’ll deal with it.”

    “But?”

    “But I won’t backstab my own aunt. I can’t sneak around knowing that the two of you shared something more than just a business arrangement.”

    “I’ll tell her.” He replied, “There was something there, I’m not sure what but I’ll make it clear to her that you and I are together. Okay?”
    “You and I…together?” She asked.

    Danny pulled Marah to his lips and slowly, softly kissed her on the lips. Once he finally pulled away he said in a whisper, “Together.”

    **********

    “Gus…If you’re reading this then I’ve already left. Vera is hiding something and I know that I promised I would stay out of it, but the fact the matter is I can’t. If you really knew, like I think you do then you will understand.”

    “Hello ma’am may I help you?” A rental car attendant asked in Augusta, Maine.

    “Yes I had a reservation under the name of Cooper, Harley.”

    “I’ve gone to find Alex. She knows the truth, because what Vera is telling you isn’t the truth. Don’t come after me. Let me do this so you can know once and for all where you belong. All my love, Harley.” Gus folded the paper and dropped to the bed.

    “Any problems?” Lucy asked.

    “Not a one.” Harley opened the trunk, “The only person who has a problem is Alexandra and that problem is me!”

    :Fades to Black:

    **********

    Next on "THE GUIDING LIGHT"
    - Billy and Bill talk about the baby!
    - Beth goes after Olivia with dramatic results!
    - Harley! Alexandra! It's a can't miss week!
  11. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 052
    Sunday, March 11, 2007
    Written By: Dan Gobble & Josh Hawkins

    **********

    Alan-Michael Spaulding admires his new office as the temporary COO of Spaulding Enterprises. Suddenly, the voice of his secretary beeps on the intercom. A telegram has come for him. He takes it from his secretary and reads the message.

    “I will be leaving town for a couple days with my sister. I need some time alone to figure out what I am going to do about us. Lucy.”

    He ponders what the meaning was behind the sudden departure of his wife, but is interrupted by his secretary, who tells him that the board members are gathering in the conference room. He enters and sits at the head of the table. Alan sees that everyone is present and begins the meeting.

    “I just want to begin this meeting by announcing the new COO of the company: my son Alan-Michael Spaulding.” The board members applaud the announcement, then Alan continues, “I just want to assure members of the board that we will work to improve the company’s profit margin. The first step of the process will involve the first shipment of the new products by our pharmaceutical division, which will occur later tonight. Also, I have used my influence as a board member of Cedars Hospital to keep us in the running for the remodeling project. We are one of several companies being considered for the project and the proposals will be due in the next two weeks. I will be attending other matters, so I will be leaving my son Phil-“

    “Wait just a damn minute!” Alan-Michael interrupts.

    **********

    Meanwhile, the Lewis men gather in the headquarters of Lewis Construction to discuss the Cedars project. Bill looks lost in thought as Billy and Josh talk.

    “I just spoke to the board a few hours ago and we are on their short list for the project, along with Spaulding. If we want to get the project, we need to get started on the proposal,” Josh says.

    “We’ll have to put a rush on it if we want to beat Spaulding little brother,” Billy replied.

    Josh hugs Billy and leaves to get started on the proposal. Billy looks at the papers and then looks up at a distracted Bill.

    “What’s wrong Bill?” he asks.

    Bill jumps up as if he had been asleep the entire time and looks at his father.

    “I tell ya son, you’re gonna have to get more sleep. You look groggier than a month of Mondays.”

    “I talked to Michelle yesterday and I could be the father of her baby. Or not. Michelle doesn’t know, I guess we should be lucky it’s only between Danny and myself.”

    Billy is about to give Bill his two cents, but before he can get the words out, Michelle enters the room.

    **********

    Cassie and Olivia sit at the conference room at the Beacon Hotel. They are interviewing applicants for the vacant administrative assistant position. Both women look exhausted after a series of trying interviews.

    Cassie looks at the next name on the list as Sandra O’Dell walks into the room.

    “Hello, I’m Sandra O’Dell. It’s nice to meet you both,” Sandra says.

    Olivia motions for Sandra to take a seat. Cassie and Olivia take turns asking questions of Sandra.

    “And how many words can you type per minute?” Cassie asks.

    “I can type about 250 words per minute. I’ve also been trained in shorthand and dictation. I can also work my way pretty well through a few computer programs.”

    “You have impressive credentials Miss O’Dell. Much more than many of the other candidates we’ve seen today.” Olivia noted.

    “Thank you very much.”

    The intercom rings and Cassie leaves to tend to an important matter. Olivia decides to use the opportunity to get to know Sandra a bit better.

    “So, I read on your resume that you were from Las Vegas. I’ve always wanted to take a trip down there. But why did you move to Springfield?”

    **********

    Gus returns home and finds a message taped to the refrigerator from Harley: “Gus…If you’re reading this then I’ve already left. Vera is hiding something and I know that I promised I would stay out of it, but the fact the matter is I can’t. If you really knew, like I think you do then you will understand.”

    Gus takes a seat at the table and wonders where she could have gone.

    Meanwhile, Harley enters the Spaulding house in Bar Harbor and sees Alexandra sitting on the sofa.

    “Alexandra! Fancy seeing you here!” Harley smirks.

    **********

    And Now "The Guiding Light"
    Opening

    **********

    Cassie runs back to the front desk after attending to the problem. Danny sees her from his seat in the lobby and moves toward her.

    “You certainly look busy today,” he says.

    “Nothing gets passed you does it Danny? I’ve been running around this hotel all day. I’m beginning to feel like a pinball.”

    “Why don’t you take a rest really quick? I’m sure the hotel can manage with you out of the picture for at least a few minutes,” Danny says.

    Cassie relaxes in one of the recliners in the lobby of the hotel.

    “How have you been Danny? I rarely see you these days,” Cassie asks.

    “I’m always doing something. We’ve had some things going on over at the Towers and menus and all kinds of things like that. Plus some things with Michelle. But I think I’d feel weird talking about them with you.”

    “Why, because we dated for a couple months?”

    “Well yeah. I know that after Richard died, you were looking for a shoulder to lean on and so was I. We had something there, and I’m sorry that it didn’t work out.”

    “Danny, I don’t think either of us know what we had.”

    “I guess not,” he agrees. “Isn’t it funny though how things always work out. Just when I thought that I would never find someone else, another door.”

    “Marah?”

    “How did you find out?”

    “Danny, I saw you both together at Valentine’s Day. You two looked a little too close to be ‘just friends.’ Do you want to hear something that is really nuts? For a little while there, I was jealous of her. I had half a mind to fight for your attention. But I suppose my third wheel days are over.”

    Danny hugs her and kisses her on the cheek.

    “Listen, if you ever need anything Cassie. I’m sure you know where to find me. Don’t worry Cassie. You’re a beautiful woman. I know that you will find someone,” Danny offered.

    **********

    “Alan-Michael, what is the meaning of this,” Alan thundered.

    “Dad, you know the bylaws of this company. The CEO is obligated to submit all projects to the COO first for approval. The COO is the first to be offered the project.”

    “Sorry, son. I just didn’t think you were ready. I was going to give the project to Phillip.”

    “Yet more pandering to the favorite I see. What do I have to do to get someone’s attention? Aunt Alex seems to think I was ready. Otherwise, why didn’t she offer her proxy to Phillip? I need an opportunity to prove that I am not just a figurehead until Alex gets back. I’m going to head the project for the Cedars renovation,” he says with finality.

    **********

    “Bill, I uh, just wanted to see how you were. Last night was such a mess.”

    “Isn’t that the understatement of the year,” Bill quips.

    “Bill, I know you’re angry at me, but I want you to know that I never wanted this to happen. God, if I knew that all of this would jeopardize our friendship, I would have never kept this from you,” she apologizes.

    “When will you know who the father is?”

    “I don’t know. But, believe me. I hope to God that you are the father.”

    **********

    “So, what made you come all the way from Las Vegas?”

    “My son and I moved up here a couple of months ago. I knew someone from Springfield a few years ago and he told me all about this town. I knew that if we ever left Las Vegas that I would love to come here,” Sandra answered.

    “If you don’t mind me asking, who was this person? I’ve only been here a few years myself. I was born on the island of San Cristobel. But I’ve gotten to know love the place.”

    “Oh, it was so long ago. I don’t think you will know him. But it was someone I loved very much. I wonder if I’ll get to see him again now that I’m here. But that’s the main reason why I applied for the job. My son moved here before I did, so I want to be close to him.”

    “Well, I don’t know about Cassie, but I am sure impressed with you. If you want the job, then you’ve got it.”

    Olivia gets up from her chair and welcomes her with a handshake.

    “Mrs. Spaulding, I know this sounds like a weird request, but I’m in need of some funds for hotel accommodations until I can get settled. Could I have a small advance?”

    “Call me Olivia. We’ll be working together quite a bit so formality isn’t needed. I’ll do you one better. I happen to have a suite here at the Beacon. I have no use of it right now. You’re welcome to stay there as long as you need.”

    “Oh thank you, Mrs. Spaulding. Oops, Olivia. Thank you very much.

    **********

    Alexandra gets up from the sofa and stares at Harley.

    “Harley, what the hell are you doing here? I know that my disappearance was sudden, but it certainly didn’t warrant you tracking me down like some bloodhound.”

    “The only reason that you high-tailed it out of town, Alexandra, was because I was getting to close to the truth. Am I right?”

    “What are you talking about?” Alex asks as calm as she can.

    “You know exactly what I am talking about, Alex. Don’t play me for a fool. Vera’s story never really washed with me. You have masterful timing though, I must say. You may have fooled Gus, but not me. So I decided to do a little digging. There is no way that her story could be true. So that leaves only two possibilities. Either you are covering for your brother. Or you are Gus’ mother! There is no other reason why you would be so eager to cover your butt”

    **********

    Meanwhile, Gus looks at the letter again, as Vera walks in the front door.

    “Hello sweetheart. What’s wrong? You look a little worried. Here, why don’t you sit down and I’ll make some tea.”

    “I’m okay mom. I found a note from Harley saying that she left town for a bit and I don’t know where she could be. That’s all. You know Harley. When she gets a bone, she goes to town on it. I wish she would drop the whole goose chase before she causes a rift between us. This whole thing is just driving Harley and I apart and I can’t stand it.”

    “Perhaps you and Harley need some time apart? She may not even be the right person for you? She doesn’t seem to be very supportive,” Vera asks.

    “Harley means well. She senses that something is amiss. I think that’s all it is. At least I hope.”

    :Fades to Black:

    **********

    Next on "THE GUIDING LIGHT"
    - Michelle confesses everything to her family.
    - Mel takes issue with Rick and Michelle.
    - Hope's a changed woman!
  12. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 053
    Sunday, March 11, 2007
    Written By: Josh Hawkins & Dan Gobble

    **********

    Hope Bauer walked slowly down the corridor of the Spaulding Mansion and as she inched closer to the study the air filled with familiar scent.

    She appeared in the doorway and stood for a moment. Alan sat at the desk his back to the door puffing away on a cigar. “Some things never change. Isn’t that right Alan?” Hope announced her arrival.

    “Well, Hope.” Alan said in such a familiar way it sent chills down her spine, “Alan-Michael mentioned that you were here.”

    “Really? I’m surprised after the conversation that he and had the other morning.” She paused and surveyed the room, “Uncle Ed tells me that you’ve married again, I suppose congratulations are in order.”

    “I’ve married quite a few times since the last time we spoke Hope.” Alan poured himself a drink, “Alan-Michael isn’t here so what could you possibly want?”

    “Is that how you speak to all of your ex-wives Alan? Or current ones for that matter, speaking of which is the new Mrs. Spaulding home? Because I would just love to get rid of my playbook?”

    “Your what?”

    “Playbook. You know how coaches write down their plays and what works, doesn’t work, new ideas, things like that. Oh yes, I have many…many notes.” Hope tossed her overcoat and purse to a nearby sofa and tapped the side of her head, “Everything is stored right here.”

    “Hope I think you’ve overstayed your welcome.” Alan said, “I think if the new Mrs. Spaulding found you here she would be very suspicious.”

    “I’ll leave when I am damn well ready, I logged enough hours in this miserable place, besides I came here for two reasons.”

    **********

    Beth stormed into the Beacon, to the elevators and up to the master suite that she knew belonged to one Olivia Spencer Spaulding. Beth and Lizzie had just gone at one another, screaming and arguing about her decision not to tell Lizzie about the marriage. Beth knew Olivia sung like a little canary to her daughter and she be damned if she would let that scheming bitch get away with it!

    Beth stood in front of Olivia’s suite door and pounded hard against the oak wood, “Olivia you open this door! OLIVIA!” She pounded harder, “Olivia I know you’re in there. I spoke with the front desk and they just sent up room service, OLIVIA!”

    “What is all this shouting about?” Sandra pulled open the door, her hair wrapped in a white towel. “Who are you?”

    “Who am I? Who are you? And where the hell is Olivia?”

    **********

    From atop the staircase Michelle could see her entire family gathered around the Bauer kitchen table, it was a sight that made her smile. Robbie was sound asleep and Michelle hoped he would stay that way for a while. It would make what she was about to do a lot easier.

    Mel sat across from Rick who sat next to Ed and they all waited patiently for Michelle who had called the meeting. “Any ideas?” Rick asked in a hushed whisper in no particular direction.

    “No need to whisper Rick.” Michelle took a seat next to Mel, “Thanks for coming.”

    “Sure.” She answered, “Anytime.”

    “You all know that the divorce from Danny took a toll on me.” Michelle began, “And you warned me about getting involved with Bill so soon afterwards.” She cut her eyes in Rick’s direction. “But Rick was right, imagine that, my big brother was right.”

    “Honey…” Ed interjected, “Tell us what is the matter.”

    **********

    And Now "The Guiding Light"
    Opening

    **********

    Shayne has been in his room since he arrived home from school. Reva heads upstairs and Shayne continues chatting online.

    lewis_man: So how long were gonna wait till you told me you were in Springfield?
    university_stud: cut me a break Shayne, I barely got enrolled for the last eight weeks of class
    lewis_man: yeah so how did that work for you
    university_stud: please…like I know, my parents talk and then their money talks, not really in that order…so…
    lewis_man: so??

    “Shayne honey.” Reva knocked on the door and entered without permission. Shayne quickly closed his laptop and picked up a nearby literature book. “I’m sorry were you studying?”

    “Yeah or dosing off.” Shayne rubbed his eyes and forced a yawn, “Something along those lines. What’s up?”

    **********

    Michelle shook her head, “I’m pregnant.”

    “Your pregnant?” Ed asked again to make sure he heard her correctly, “Michelle?”

    Mel turned her head and placed her hand over her mouth. She struggled in that moment not to cry because she couldn’t, it wouldn’t be fair to Michelle.

    “How far along are you?” Rick asked calmly fully aware of the toll this was most likely taking on Mel, “Michelle?”

    “Seven months Rick!” She replied sharply, “And I heard the first time, just no one antagonize at the moment please.” Michelle drew in a deep breath, “Being pregnant is one of my least worries at the moment.”

    “What is then?” Rick questioned.

    “Well…this is embarrassing, but I slept with both Danny and Bill within a week of one another.”

    Mel rolled her eyes, “Oh my God! Michelle?”

    “Don’t look at me like that? Like I’m some common tramp…” She warned Mel, “That’s not what I need right now and if you think I’m not fully one-hundred percent aware of what is going, well then you’re mistaken, because I am.”

    Rick stood, “Mel why don’t we go get some fresh out and let these two talk.”

    Without a word Mel stood and followed Rick out of the kitchen leaving Ed alone with his daughter, “Is the baby healthy?”

    Michelle shook her head, “Of course. I’ve been down this rode before.” She lowered her head into her hands, “Daddy, what am I going to do?”

    “Oh baby.” Ed towered above her and brought her head close to this chest, “Sshh!”

    **********

    Rick finally caught up with Mel and reached for her arm, “What is wrong with you?”

    She sighed heavily, “Oh no…you really just asked me that? Your sister is pregnant with a baby and she doesn’t even know who the father is? It’s so unfair.”

    Rick took her in his arms for mere seconds and Mel shoved away, “Oh my God, listen to me. I practically just called your sister a whore, much like you did with me a few days ago.”

    “Melissanda…”

    **********

    “Then by all means get to it.”

    “You remember that woman you married a long time ago? The Hope that was weak and a doormat, that stood by and was content being your wife?” Hope shook her head, “That woman is long gone and am no more a doormat for you or any man, I am strong, fierce and independent woman that is not afraid of your or your kind.”

    “You are playing some kind of game and you’ve gotten my son involved.” Hope took a step toward him, “I don’t like that Alan, not one bit.”

    “Oh lay off the momma bear act.” He retorted, “I’m not playing any kind of a game with Alan-Michael, he’s a grown man for God’s sake Hope. And if anyone is playing games it’s Alexandra, she gave him that proxy.”

    “Oh Alan! Do you think that I’m naïve or stupid, well my darling ex-husband I am neither of those things. Quite frankly I could care less who gave Alan-Michael those proxies, Alexandra, Phillip, the Queen of England, the point is I don’t give a damn. Everything ties back to you and how Alan-Michael has worked his entire life to win your approval.” She walked over and collecting her overcoat and purse, “So when are you finally going to give to him? What more does he have to do to get the attention and admiration you’ve given to Phillip his entire life? He’s risked everything this time Alan to come back here and fight for one ounce of your approval and it could very well cost him his marriage.”

    **********

    “You know I was just telling Holly a few days ago how I much I’ve let you down these last few years, not being around.”

    “Stop it.” Michelle ordered him, “That has nothing to do with this daddy.”

    “I know it doesn’t but still you can’t blame me for thinking that…”

    “Daddy!”

    “Okay. Have you told the men in your life about this development?”

    Michelle shook her head, “Last night. It was a grand event, truly. Danny and Marah who by the way are a couple now got mine and Bill’s room by mistake. One thing led to another and by the end of the night I was sitting in corner of a Beacon suite crying because, yes the men in my life know the truth.”

    “All right.” Ed sighed, “Then what do you suggest we do next?”

    “I talked to Bill earlier, he wants a DNA test immediately.”

    Ed rubbed his forehead, “You said you were how far along?”

    “Seven months, the babies due in May.”

    “Michelle…an amnio DNA test this late in the pregnancy is high risk, I would highly advise against it.”

    **********

    “Mrs. Spaulding is not in the hotel, she’s already gone for the day. Again I’ll ask, who are you?”

    Beth looked her over and took a step back, “I’m…I’m sorry, what did you say your name…was? You look so familiar.”

    “My name is Sandra and I’m Mrs. Spaulding’s new administrative assistant. I just moved here to Springfield and she was kind enough to put me up in her suite.”

    “One thing that Olivia is not is kind.” Beth shook her head, “My name is Beth Raines-Spaulding. When you see Olivia tomorrow tell her I was looking for her please.”

    “Of course. Have a good night.” Beth walked towards the elevator as Sandra watched her intensely, “It was a pleasure to meet you Mrs. Raines…I’m sorry, Mrs. Spaulding. I am just so terrible with names.”

    **********

    “Nothing much. Your dad and I were heading out to meet Billy. The two of them are going to have a working dinner, you should come with us.”

    “Oh…”

    “I know, it’s okay,” Reva lowered her voice, “I don’t want to go all that much either.”

    “Sounds like the three of you are going to have enough fun with me, so I’ll pass.”

    Reva blew him kisses, “Okay then you study and if you go out make sure to lock up.”

    “I always do.” Shayne waited till she was gone and then opened the laptop.

    university_stud: um hello….Shayne????
    lewis_man: sorry my mom popped in.
    university_stud: awe fun! So what are you up too?
    lewis_man: nada…my parents just left…what `bout you?
    university_stud: bored out of my mind! So…could we maybe meet tonight, somewhere private?
    lewis_man: your apartment.
    university_stud: no…this place is a mess…
    lewis_stud: okay, then. how about the docks by the lighthouse, half an hour
    university_stud: okay, see you then.

    Shayne shut off his laptop, grabbed his backpack and headed towards the door, off to meet Derek Bowden for the first time since they last saw one another in Minnesota.

    **********

    “Don’t, just…please don’t!” She sighed, “I am having enough trouble wrapping my head around Michelle and us…I just think it would be best if I stayed with my parents a little while longer.”

    “You are my wife Mel!” Rick reminded her.

    “And you think I need to be reminded of that?” She retorted, “Maybe I should remind you of something, I miscarried your child because one of your crazy ex-lovers decided to wreck havoc upon my life. I stood by for days, weeks and months while you and Harley played house, I stood by you when you were dying, so don’t you dare remind me that I am your wife and don’t you even dare put me in a position where I will have to look at your sister with hate and anger. I am staying with my parents until I can come to terms with what I have lost.”

    **********

    “So I’m supposed to wait? Two more months, I have to know who the father of this baby is I’ve kept this secret too long, I need to know.”

    “My advice as a doctor and more importantly as your father is for you not have this DNA test. We can talk to Claire and try to pinpoint the date of conception. That’s the best I can suggest Michelle, but it’s really up to you.”

    **********

    “He’s a grown man, Hope.”

    “Alan! Really? You’re a grown man and you still make stupid, irrational, cold and heartless decisions, but not with my son. Are you listening to me? Because I will only say this one time, if you hurt my son, if you cross my son if you so much as look at him cross eyed and he tells me about, so help you God in Heaven you will have to deal with me.” She walked towards the study, “And it’s not threat or warning. It’s a mother’s promise.” She winked, took her leave and called out from down the hall, “Goodnight Alan, sleep tight.”

    :Fades to Black:

    **********

    Next on "THE GUIDING LIGHT"
    - Episode 054: Alexandra vs. Harley!
    - "IN the LIGHT"

  13. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 054
    Wednesday, March 14, 2007
    IN the LIGHT: Alexandra, Lucy & Harley
    Written By: Josh Hawkins & Dan Gobble

    **********

    Harley enters the Spaulding house in Bar Harbor and sees Alexandra sitting on the sofa.

    “Alexandra! Fancy seeing you here!” Harley smirks.

    **********

    Alexandra gets up from the sofa and stares at Harley.

    “Harley, what the hell are you doing here? I know that my disappearance was sudden, but it certainly didn’t warrant you tracking me down like some bloodhound.”

    “The only reason that you high-tailed it out of town, Alexandra, was because I was getting to close to the truth. Am I right?”

    “What are you talking about?” Alex asks as calm as she can.

    “You know exactly what I am talking about, Alex. Don’t play me for a fool. Vera’s story never really washed with me. You have masterful timing though, I must say. You may have fooled Gus, but not me. So I decided to do a little digging. There is no way that her story could be true. So that leaves only two possibilities. Either you are covering for your brother. Or you are Gus’ mother! There is no other reason why you would be so eager to cover your butt”

    **********

    And Now "The Guiding Light"
    Opening

    **********

    "Oh well just listen to you Miss Harley, you have everything all figured out don’t you?” Alexandra took a drink of brandy and slammed her empty glass down. “Well you are WRONG!” She roared as thunder rolled outside and the rain began to set in.

    “I don’t think that I am.”

    “I cannot believe after all that I have done for you that you would stand have the audacity to stand here and excuse me off being a bold face liar. You are so unbelievably wrong Harley, that detective brain of yours is working overtime.” Alex looked out at the raining pouring down and her stomach turned knots. “Vera Ginatoni is Gus’ mother and that is the end of this story!”

    “That is not the end of the story and if you think that is you are even more stupid that I thought you were.”

    “I made Vera a promise to always help her, she was my friend and when she was pregnant she needed my help. And instead of barging in here and accusing me of lying you should be thanking me.”

    “For what?”

    “If Roy Baker had ever found out that Vera was alive and had a son, the trouble would have ensued and that is not a thought or opinion, it is the truth. Roy Baker was a lowlife piece of trash that would have made Gus’ life a living, miserable hell. So yes, Harley you should thank me giving him a good life.”

    “You don’t know that Alexandra. Last time I checked you could not predict the future and I’m willing to bet that you couldn’t back then either.”



    "You didn’t know that son-of-a-bitch like I knew him. He was evil Harley and not evil like Alan or Phillip, he was violent with Vera and with me. I did what I had to do to protect Vera and her baby…” Alex bordered on tears, “you have no idea what he would have done.”

    “That may very well be the truth about Roy Baker, but you’re still lying. I know you Alexandra and know what kind of person you are. You are self-centered, you are egotistical, you are greedy and you have no real friends.”

    “SHUT YOUR MOUTH!” Alexandra ordered Harley and for the first time she actually frightened her. “I don’t know what else to tell you to convince you that…”

    “Tell me the truth.”

    “Vera Ginatoni and Roy Baker, whether you like it or not are Gus’ parents, now get the hell out of my house Harley!” Alex demanded, as Harley stood firm!

    “I’m not going anywhere, because no matter how many times you say that I will know and you will know it is a lie. I’m not going anywhere until Gus knows it is a lie!”

    Alex shook her head, “Get out.”

    “Not a chance…”

    “Fine then I’ll go.” Alexandra bolted towards the front door, grabbed the car keys and through open the door!

    The rain had picked up now. Lightening could be seen in the distance over the water and the thunder roared. Alexandra had the cold rain beating against her face yet she pushed through towards the car. Inside the house Harley knew she couldn’t let her get away, not this time and not again, without thinking Harley ran after her!

    **********

    Her blonde hair dripping and soaking wet she slammed the passenger door of the car, “Get out of this car Harley.” Alexandra demanded.

    “Not on your life.” Harley retorted, “I didn’t come all this way to give up now.”

    From the back of the driveway Lucy saw the brake lights of Alex’s car shine in the stormy night and speed away, she quickly decided to follow close behind.

    “I don’t know what is going to make you understand Harley I am telling you the truth.”



    Alex repeated as she steered around the Maine hills and curves.

    “Pull over Alexandra.” Harley began to get worried, “Think about what this is doing to Gus…Alex, imagine...” She looked out the windshield…

    Lucy had finally managed to catch up with them, finally and could see the two women screaming at one another.



    “Imagine Lujack or Nick looking for you like Gus has been looking for his mother…you know that you’re not telling the truth…imagine if someone done that to one of your boys…”

    She took her eyes off the road and glared at Harley, “Don’t you dare speak their names…” Alex turned back to the road but it was to late as she car merged off the road and Alex tried desperately to bring back on the road…

    Lucy saw what was transpiring…and reached for her cell phone…

    **********

    “HARLEY!!” Alexandra screamed out, “Oh my god!”

    “Open the damn door Alex and get out.” Harley reached for her door handle and managed to throw herself out of the car as it continued to roll down the hill.

    “HARLEY!” Lucy screamed out when she happened on the scene and witnessed the car come to a stop at the bottom of the hill, “ALEXANDRA?”

    “Lucy…” Harley managed to speak and within seconds Lucy was down the embankment and was pulling her back up the embankment, she could hear the sirens off in the distance.

    “Did you call help?” Harley managed, “Alex…Alex is in the car…” were her last words before she passed out.



    “Harley…Harley…stay with me…wake up!” Lucy ordered, “Harley Davidson don’t you dare do something stupid…damnit, Harley!”

    The EMTs arrived and slightly pushed Lucy out of the way, “She’s my sister…” Lucy wiped her forehead and brought her hand down and saw the blood, “Alex…”

    Lucy raced back to the embankment and looked down, “Can I get some help over here! Someone…my aunt is down there…”



    Almost in slow motion Lucy turned back and looked down and with in mere seconds she heard it first…then saw the car burst into flame, “Oh my God…oh my God!”

    “ALEX-AN-DRA! ALEX-AN-DRA!!!!”

    :Fades to Black:

    **********

    Next on "THE GUIDING LIGHT"
    - Shayne meets Derek at the docks...but someone else is watching!
    - Marah puts Michelle on notice!
    - And in one single moment the Spaulding dynasty...comes...crashing...down around them!
  14. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 055
    Monday, March 19, 2007
    Written By: Josh Hawkins & Dan Gobble

    **********

    Lucy raced back to the embankment and looked down, “Can I get some help over here! Someone…my aunt is down there…”

    Almost in slow motion Lucy turned back and looked down and with in mere seconds she heard it first…then saw the car burst into flame, “Oh my God…oh my God!”

    “ALEX-AN-DRA! ALEX-AN-DRA!!!!”

    **********

    Holly looked out her window at Hollybend and saw Ed’s car pull in the driveway, she smiled and thought how winter was sticking around much longer than it usually did.

    “Come in out of that cold.” Holly rubbed her arms, shut the door and kissed Ed, “Can you believe this weather?” She took his coat and scarf, “Unbelievable if you ask me, my co-editor wants to run it as the headline in the morning, record low temperatures. Just haven’t been feeling all that well, these darn migraines just won’t leave me alone.” She chuckled.

    Ed shook his head, “Well my daughter’s life is crumbling to the ground at the moment and there is not one damn thing I can do about.”

    **********

    And Now "The Guiding Light"
    Opening

    **********

    Alan-Michael rubbed his forehead and looked over the massive mountain of papers on his desk. Lucy’s framed pictured stared back at him, her telegram resting nearby. The majority of the pile was manila folders and memos from board members regarding the Cedars project.

    “Doesn’t look good from where I’m standing.” Phillip announced.

    “Then turn around and leave.” A-M suggested, “I don’t remember asking you to stop by.”

    “Believe it or not Alan-Michael, I’m not the enemy here.” Phillip replied, “I thought we actually made some headway the other day at Olivia’s.”

    “And we did. We’re brothers and that will never change, but when it comes to Spaulding Enterprises we have to be nothing but business associates, family relationships aside.”

    “This is a company built on family.” He reminded.

    “You sound Alan. This may very well be a family company but it is only that when convenient for those involved.”

    “And what the hell is that supposed to mean?”

    “Don’t act like you don’t know. I have butted heads with you, fought tooth and nail for one ounce of respect from him and I’ve never gotten it? Why do you think I went to Europe in the first place?”



    Phillip shrugged. “I couldn’t win here…but Aunt Alex she sees something in me that Alan never has and I’m beginning to think never will.”

    “You’re very paranoid Alan-Michael.” Phillip told him, “I just came in to see if you needed some assistance with the Cedars project.”

    Before A-M answered his secretary buzzed, “Mr. Spaulding the driver is here to take you down to the docks. Should I tell him you’ll be a few minutes longer?”

    “No Ava, that won’t be necessary, Phillip and I are done here!” He looked over the massive pile on his desk, “If you want to help out Phillip you could go and take care of the shipments that are coming right now.”

    “Why would do that?” He questioned, “That is after all Aunt Alex’s division and seeing as she trusts you so much…” Phillip grinned and made his way out of the office and to the elevator.

    “Mr. Spaulding the driver is waiting.” Ava buzzed again.

    “Fine.” He sighed as he crammed his briefcase with the documents, “Ava have my calls forwarded to my cell phone and try to get my damn wife on the phone.”

    **********

    “Michelle? What’s the matter?”

    “Nothing that Maureen couldn’t handle. You remember awhile back, I told you I failed her, I just had no idea how much!”

    “Ed…”

    “Don’t ‘Ed’ me Holly. I spent all those years off tramping through Africa and helping other people…when I should, when I should have been here in Springfield raising my daughter, maybe then she wouldn’t be in this mess.” He drew a deep breath and ran his fingers through his thinning hair, “You know I bet Maureen is spinning in her grave right now…”

    “Oh well now Ed, that’s pushing it. Maureen is doing no such thing, she knows how much you love Michelle. Now sit down…I have some coffee and you’ll tell me what’s going on here.”

    “No, no coffee Holly. It kept me up half the night and the other half was worrying about Michelle.”

    “Ed?”

    “She’s pregnant!” He finally revealed.

    “Ed…that’s wonderful…” Holly said but saw the look on his face, “What’s the matter? Is the baby all right?”

    “The baby is fine, but my daughter doesn’t know if Bill Lewis or Danny Santos is the father.”

    “Well that does pose quite the problem.” Holly replied, “What is she going to do?”

    **********

    Lucy frantically looked around as the rain began to let up, “Anyone! Someone help me!” She screamed out and then started down the embankment herself.

    Two EMTs rushed after her, “Ma’am…ma’am you can’t go down there.”

    “My aunt is down there and damn car just exploded, so either you go down there or am I!” She yelled.

    Within seconds Lucy found herself looking down at three EMTs and five firefighters running towards the car, “Alexandra!” She cried softly and jumped when a woman touched her shoulder.

    “Sorry to frighten you, but we’re going to transport your sister now. Would you like to come with us?”

    Lucy sat in shock for a moment, “My aunt’s car exploded…I don’t know…”

    “Ma’am…” the woman squatted down beside Lucy, “What’s your name?”

    “Lucy Spaulding.” She answered her eyes still on the roaring blaze, “Lucy Cooper-Spaulding.”

    “Okay Mrs. Spaulding I can assure you my guys are going to do everything in their power to help your aunt. But it would help us if you went with your sister to the hospital. Okay?”



    Lucy shook her head yes, “Alexandra. Her name is Alexandra and she’ll answer to Alex.” She headed towards the ambulance where Harley was waiting, “My car’s a rental.”

    “Don’t worry about that. One of the officers will bring to the hospital for you and we’ve placed your personal effects in the ambulance.”

    Lucy climbed into the back of the ambulance and took Harley’s hand…the doors slammed and Lucy questioned, “How, how is she?”

    **********

    Shayne looked around the docks, the lighthouse light circled in the dark water and in the far distance he could see the light of an approaching ship. He reached into his back pocket and quickly sent a text message to Derek.

    ‘Are you here?’

    Within seconds of it having been sent Shayne heard the familiar voice behind, “Hey stranger!”



    Shayne’s smile fell for the first time that night and he turned to see Derek before him, “Hey yourself.”

    In the black Cadillac sedan A-M attempted to make something of the unfamiliar papers he had brought with him but decided he would work on them later and telephone the office. “Ava have you had any luck finding Lucy?” A-M waited for her response but cut her off, “No you can’t leave…how about you leave when you find my wife.”

    “Mr. Spaulding about five more minutes and we’ll be at the docks.” The driver announced as they sped down the highway.

    **********

    “She wants to have an DNA test, but she’s seven months along.” Ed’s eyes showed more than his words could ever express, “If Maureen was here she would know just what to do, what to say and…oh who am I kidding, if Maureen were here I wouldn’t be in this predicament to begin with. I told Michelle we would talk with Claire and see what she thought, but now I just think that is a bad idea...”



    “Let her have the damn test Ed!” Holly shouted at him stopping him mid-sentence. “I’m so sorry…” she began to apologize, “I don’t know what came over, Ed, please forgive me.” Holly pressed, “You’ve been so good to me lately and had no right to yell at you.”

    Ed remained speechless for a moment, “I suppose I was carrying on a little too much.”

    “No, no not at all. I had to right to raise my voice at you. Will you forgive me?”

    “Of course.” Ed answered, “I just don’t know what to do with Michelle.”

    “I know you don’t and I’m sorry but maybe what you need to do is let her go, unfortunately you did miss those formative years but if you let her go out and make her own mistakes and do what she wants to do, then I think you’re relationship will be so much better off.” Holly told him as she lightly stroked his cheek, “Does that make sense?”

    He took her hand and kissed it, “Of course it does. You know exactly what to say to calm me down, thank you.”

    Holly shook her head, “No thanks needed, it works both ways.”

    “Have you had dinner?”

    She shook her head, “Clarissa and I had a pizza earlier tonight, Blake said she was wanting to see grandma.”

    “So the two of you are at least talking.”

    “Talking, in some form yes.” Holly forced a smile, “I’m tired and I still have a few articles I need to edit, why don’t I give you a call in the morning. Maybe have breakfast at Company?”

    “Sounds nice.” Ed headed towards the door, “Have you been able to keep your migraines under control?”

    “Of course, I would let you know otherwise. I’ll talk to you in the morning.” Holly shut the door and locked it behind him. She walked across the room turned the lamp to dim, just enough light to fill the room. Holly wrapped herself in a blanket on the sofa and listened to the howling wind rap against the window.

    **********

    Lucy sat in a hospital ten times smaller than Cedars, drinking stale cold coffee with a blank wrapped around her and her cell phone. She was debating on waiting to see what the EMTs told her about Alexandra before calling Springfield.

    A doctor in his late 50s came out of the emergency room, “Are you Ms. Cooper’s sister?”

    She sat the coffee down and the blanket fell to an empty chair, “Lucy Cooper-Spaulding and you are?”

    “Dr. Keith.” He introduced himself. “You’re sister has severe head trauma from the accident. Luckily for us though she didn’t suffer any burns from the explosion. However,”

    “However?”

    “Mrs. Spaulding, your sister has slipped into a coma. At this point it’s a good thing?”

    Lucy shook her head, “It’s good that she’s in a coma?”

    “To an extent, yes. Her body is letting her heal, it just depends on how long she remains in that state.” Dr. Keith patted Lucy’s knee in an effort to reassure her, “I’m sorry I don’t have more news.”

    “How long should she stay like this? I mean in a state that you think is good?”

    “A few hours, a few days. Each patient is different. Again I’m sorry that I don’t have more news.”

    “Do you um, have a telephone I can borrow? I can’t get a signal and I need to call my father.”

    “Of course, follow me.”

    The two walked over to the nurse’s station and were about to dial the number when two uniformed officers and the EMT from earlier entered, “Mrs. Spaulding…”

    **********

    “I can’t believe you are really here.” Shayne gave him a little push, “Last time we talked you thought you were going to enroll at the University of Minnesota.”

    “Change of plans.” Derek smiled, “You don’t seem very excited to see me.”

    “Of course I am.” Shayne defended, “It just would have been I don’t know nice to know you were coming.”

    “I wanted it to be a surprise.” Derek confessed.

    “Well you succeeded…” Shayne answered as Derek reached up and kissed him softly on the lips silencing Shayne.

    The two pulled away without a word between them…

    “And it’s all here?” Alan-Michael asked, “You sure because I was reading in the car over here that Alexandra had problems with the last shipment.”

    “Everything is here Mr. Spaulding that I can assure you.”

    “All right go ahead and lets get it off the boat.” Alan-Michael walked the length of the dock and tried to telephone Ava once more.

    “Alan-Michael Spaulding’s office.” She answered.

    “Ava it’s me.” He answered as he peered below the dock…

    “What the hell was that?” Shayne asked.



    “Was I wrong in assuming?” Derek retorted, “Shayne…I just thought…”

    Shayne didn’t let him finish this time and moved in for another kiss…this one much longer.



    “I have to go.” A-M ended the call and aimed the cell phone in the direction of Shayne and Derek, “I think you just solved all your problems Alan-Michael.” He said with a devilish grin.

    **********

    Lucy spun around and saw the look on their faces. She knew immediately and began to scream out, “NO! NO!!”

    Tears filled her eyes and she reached for Dr. Keith, “Alexandra…”

    “I’m so sorry Mrs. Spaulding but there was no way…”

    Lucy could barely breath, her knees gave way without warning and she collapsed, “She’s dead? Are you sure?”

    The EMT shook her head, “I’m so sorry Mrs. Spaulding, but there was no way your aunt survived that explosion.”

    :Fades to Black:

    **********

    Next on "THE GUIDING LIGHT"
    - Lucy is devestated regarding Alexandra!
  15. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 056
    Tuesday, March 20, 2007
    Written By: Josh Hawkins & Dan Gobble

    **********

    Lizzie and Shayne arrive at class and Lizzie begins to eye a hot young guy and prior to class Lizzie is telling Shayne that she saw him in the student union the other day and that he was just gorgeous, Shayne inquires about the lust of her life, Braxton. Lizzie blows him off when Derek enters the room and Lizzie tells him that is the guy.



    **********

    The Spaulding building wasn’t yet buzzing at the hour of seven o’clock in the morning. Alan-Michael had been there for about two hours and still wasn’t making much sense of everything happening in his life. Lucy. Hope’s visit. Alexandra’s disappearing act and at the top of his list was what he witnessed at the docks last night.

    He pulled out his cell phone and glanced over the picture and then flipped through proposals from board members, Phillip’s and his own. “It almost seems to easy.”

    “Good morning.” Ava poked her head in and was quickly gone.

    “Ava!” He called after her, “Ava I need Bruce Carson in her later today for a meeting. Set that up would you please?”

    “Bruce Carson, of course Alan-Michael. Anything else?”

    “See if my father has an update of Alexandra. That’s all.”

    **********

    And Now "The Guiding Light"
    Opening

    **********

    Michelle arrives at Cedars and meets with Claire [susan Pratt] and tells her about her problem with the pregnancy. Claire’s dislike for Danny shines through but Michelle tells her she needs Claire to be objective here and help her figure out what she is going to do with her life, the men and more importantly the baby!

    **********

    Lucy rubbed her forehead and it felt like a ton of bricks rested there. She began to stir in her bed and quickly realized she was in a hospital gown resting in the hospital. As she turned over she saw Harley and Lucy quickly called the nurse.

    “Good morning Mrs. Spaulding.” Dr. Keith arrived, “Did you sleep well?”

    “I’m laying next to my comatose sister and my husband’s aunt is dead.” She announced, “You drugged me didn’t you?”

    “It was for the best Mrs. Spaulding.” He informed her, “A uniformed police officer has been outside your room since about five hours. Would you like me to show him in?”



    “No, I would in fact like an update on Harley and some clothes to put on.” She threw her feet over the side of the bed hitting the cold tile floor.

    “We monitored Harley all night and her vitals are holding strong which is a good sign…”

    “You know her name is Harley Davidson Cooper, she’s tough one.” Lucy stroked her hair, “I’ve been living in Europe for the last ten years we haven’t seen one another enough…she has to pull through this so we can makeup lost time.”

    A nurse entered the room, “Mrs. Spaulding one of the EMTs brought your overnight bag from your rental car in last night.”

    “Thank you.” Lucy took it from her, “Dr. Keith please tell the anxious officer outside my room I’ll be with him momentarily.” Lucy headed towards the bathroom to changed, “Oh and doctor…”
    “Yes?”

    “I’m going to need a private conference room and a telephone after I speak with the officer to call my husband.”

    “Of course.”

    **********



    Lizzie begins to totally flirt with him and offers Derek the seat next to her, making Shayne quite uncomfortable. Shayne quietly informs her that he thought Liz was hung up on Dr. Braxton so he introduced Derek to Tammy, she cools her heels.

    **********

    “I understand you’ve been waiting a very long time to speak with me.” Lucy announced her arrival. She was wearing a pair of blue jeans, a light gray t-shirt and her platinum blonde hair was pulled into a tight ponytail.

    “Lucy Cooper-Spaulding.” She introduced.

    “Lt. Chandler Brown, so very sorry to meet you under these circumstance Mrs. Cooper-Spaulding.”

    “Mrs. Spaulding will suffice. Tell me where we are on the search for my aunt Alexandra?”

    “I’m sorry…I’m sorry I don’t follow.”

    Irritated with the answer, “Should I speak slower Lieutenant? The search for my aunt Alexandra…Spaulding!”

    “Ma’am we’ve done everything we’ve possibly could.” Brown answered, “There is nothing more…”

    “I refuse, absolutely refused to hear that. Apparently the name Spaulding means nothing to you but I have enough money to destroy this entire town or allow it to grow for decades to come. So I again suggest you go out there and do everything in your power to find her. EVERYTHING!” She shouted, “Now if you’ll excuse me I have to go make a phone call and tell my husband that you and the police force believe his aunt is dead. So I highly suggest you prove me wrong!”

    **********



    Claire says that DNA testing would be risky at this point in the pregnancy and she encourages against it, Michelle says Ed and Rick both said the same thing. Claire says the only other thing to do is try and pinpoint conception. After breaking out a calendar and discussing the possibilities, Michelle says she knows who the father of her baby is!

    **********



    After sending the police out to search for Alex, Lucy telephones Spaulding Enterprise/Ava and tells her to set up a phone conference with her husband, Alan and Phillip. Within a few minutes it is done and via telephone Lucy breaks the terrible news that Harley confronted Alex about Gus’ true paternity and that it had drastic results, Lucy tells them that Harley and Alex were in a car accident and now she is in a coma…Phillip immediately begins thinking about ways to get Zach but Lucy breaks the news that there is more…she tears up and announces Alexandra died in the fiery car blaze! Alan is completely and utterly devastated and the men fall to their chairs stunned!

    **********

    :Fades to Black:

    **********

    Next on "THE GUIDING LIGHT"
    - Mel goes to see Reva and the gloves...come...off!
    - Is the honeymoon over for Phillip & Beth?
    - Blake reaches back into her past.
  16. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 057
    Sunday, March 25, 2007
    Written By: Josh Hawkins & Dan Gobble

    **********

    Rick tightened the scarf around his neck, spring had arrived the day before yet the bitter wind blew uncontrollably as he stood on the porch.

    Dr. Felicia Boudreau pulled open the door and smiled, “Rick this is quite the surprise.” She hugged him, “My goodness, hurry come in and get out of this wind.” Felicia pushed the door closed, “Can you believe this weather, almost April and it is just bitterly cold. Would you like a cup of coffee?”

    “No thank you.” Rick replied, “Is Mel here?”

    “Oh I wish she were.” Felicia answered, “You know you just missed her. I’m sorry.”

    “Seems to be our luck lately, missing one another.” Rick looked around, “Do you know where she went?”

    “I don’t.” She answered, “Um…Mel told us about Michelle’s pregnancy please pass our congratulations onto her and Dr. Bauer.”

    “I will do that, but you don’t have to patronize me Felicia that was never your strong suit.”

    “You’re right it has never been, but I was doing no such thing Rick and I’m sorry you felt I was.” She took a seat in an empty chair, “For what it’s worth Clayton and I think that our daughter is making a horrible mistake, one that I am assured she will soon retract.”

    “We’ve both made mistakes Felicia.” Rick sat down, “Should she have come clean sooner? Yes. Should I have overreacted the way I did? No.” He took a moment for some silent thoughts, “She is the best thing that has ever happened to me without question and I everyday that I wake up and she’s not there next to me is a day that I think she is slowly slipping away. I don’t know what to do Felicia. You’re the expert here how about some expert advice?”

    “Oh Rick…I’m not the one to ask about this. If you want an expert then I would tell you to go and talk with Clayton he’s the real expert.”

    “What do you mean?”



    “Clayton and I have had our troubles after we were first married.” Felicia began, “And he was desperate to have a child right after med school…and I miscarried much like Mel. Clayton left me, not right away…but he did and we were separated for eight months.”

    **********

    Reva shut the door and smiled, “Mel this is a surprise. How are you?”

    “Better.” She answered short and to the point her single word hung in the air.

    “Joshua and I were just talking about you the other night over dinner, curious as to how you were feeling. You received our flowers didn’t you? I hope so because that florist down on Fifth Street can be so ditzy sometimes…” Reva rambled.

    “Your flowers were beautiful. They died though.” Mel was short again, “Reva this isn’t a social visit…you and I are not two old girlfriends catching up on days gone by. It’s taken me this long to muster up the courage and come here today. To see you face-to-face…for the first…” her words trailed off.

    **********

    And Now "The Guiding Light"
    Opening

    **********

    “All right. Thank you Bill, I appreciate it.” Michelle closed her cell phone and sat it down on the kitchen table. Just as she was about to sit down herself she heard a knock on the front door.

    Since coming clean about the baby Michelle was clearly showing now, she supposed it was because she was wearing clothes that actually fit.

    “Marah…” Michelle was surprised to see her here.

    “Is Danny here yet? He told me that you called earlier.”

    “No, not yet. But he will be soon and the same with Bill, so I don’t really have time to talk.”

    “You’ll make the time.” Marah replied.

    “I see. So you’ve come to threaten me and make promises you will not be able to keep?”

    “Don’t underestimate me Michelle.” Marah warned, “You’ve gotten yourself into quite the little predicament haven’t you?”

    “One that I am working on mind you.”

    “You know either way this turns out it is going to affect me in some way. Bill and I have become extremely close the last few years and…” Marah paused to think for a moment.

    “And what? Go on say it Marah, you’re falling in love with Danny?”

    “Actually yes, that is exactly what I was going to say.”

    “That’s not my concern or problem, but I wish all the luck in the world, because you’ll need it. Danny is a complicated individual with a lot of baggage.”



    “If that is some poor attempt to scare me away well then you’ve failed Michelle, I don’t scare easily.”

    **********



    Having spent the previous night together grieving for the loss of Alexandra and worrying about how to treat Harley, the Cooper family: Buzz, Frank, Marina along with Gus and Vera arrive at the Spaulding Mansion. Once everyone has assembled in the study, Buzz offers Alan his condolences and Alan-Michael announces that Rick Bauer is taking the Spaulding jet to Bar Harbor to pick Lucy up and that they will be bringing Harley back to Springfield.

    **********

    “Felicia I had no idea.”

    “No one does and no one ever. Do you understand me Rick?”

    “Of course Felicia, so you think just wait it out like you did with Clayton?”

    “Every couple is different, every situation is different and Rick I cannot tell you what to do, only you and Mel can decide that. It is going to take time though, that I can assure you. You love my daughter I know that, time will heal these wounds and when you finally are reunited it will be ten times sweeter.”

    “Thanks for talking with me.” Rick stood, “I need to be going though.”

    “So soon?”

    “I um, actually came by to tell Mel that I was flying out with a trauma team to Maine later today. Harley was in a car accident out there and it’s not good.”

    “I’m sorry to hear that.” Felicia answered, “Was anyone else involved?”

    “Alexandra Spaulding. She died.” He revealed, “We just found out yesterday.”

    “Rick…” Felicia hugged him, “I know how close you are to Phillip and with Harley, are you doing all right?”

    “I will be once I get Harley home, where she belongs. Thank you for your concern.”

    Felicia walked him to the door, “You will always have a place in this family Rick, please know that.”



    “Thank you Felicia and tell Mel what’s going on would you?”

    She shook her head…shut the door and once more Rick was standing out in the bitter cold.

    **********

    “You came to me Marah, I have no reason to try and scare you, I think you’re already afraid.”

    “Of you? Hardly, but I am concerned about your child.”

    “Okay, speaking of my child I don’t have the time or the energy to even deal with you right now. I have to stay focused on what matters, my baby.”

    “Of course, I understand Michelle. That’s why I’m here.”

    “Really?”

    Marah shook her head, “Mm-hhm. Really. But you better be very concerned with me and worry at least a little, because one way or another you are going to be tied to me for a very longtime to come.”

    “And how do you figure that?”

    “Bill is my cousin and if that is his child then he or she will be a Lewis, through and through.”

    “And if she’s a Santos?”

    “Danny’s mine Michelle and I intend to keep it that way for a very long time, no matter what storm we have to weather together. If your child is his, we will deal with it and I just don’t want you to think you will be able to win him back, because you won’t.”

    “You need to leave, now!” Michelle opened the door to see Danny standing there ready to knock.

    “What’s going on?” He asked

    “Danny!” Marah smiled, “I just stopped by to leave you a message to call me later.”

    “Is there a problem?”

    “Of course not. Mindy called and she’s flying into New York City in the morning for a couple of days and asked me to join her.”

    “That’s sound nice.”

    “Yes, very nice. So when you’re all done here you call me and we’ll have dinner. Okay?”

    “Okay.” Danny bent down and kissed her, “See you in a bit.”

    “Goodbye Michelle.” Marah waved, “Lovely talking to you.”

    **********



    Phillip informs Gus that he will be by later to pick Zach up and tells him that until Harley is well again he will be keeping Zach, Gus agrees. After his talk with Gus, Phillip approaches Beth and suggests they stay in the mansion to give Zach a sense of security with Harley being away. Beth becomes upset and notes that once again Harley Davidson Cooper has managed to work her way into their marriage and cause problems. Beth begins to storm away and tells Phillip it is bad enough that she has share a house with Olivia, but now Phillip is thinking of Harley more than her! She tells him to sleep in a guest suite and not their bedroom for a while!

    **********

    Reva stepped lightly, “Is this about Roxanne?”

    “Yes, as a matter of fact it is, because since that woman entered my life…”

    “I know what you must be feeling right now.” Reva interrupted, “And Mel I want you to know from the bottom of my heart I am so…so sorry for the trouble and torment she caused.”

    “You have no idea what I’m feeling Reva.”

    “You’re right. You are absolutely right I have no idea. But I do know the pain and the hurt she caused and you look as though…”



    “As though what Reva? That I’m better? That I am over the hell your sister put me through? Well you are wrong!” Mel shouted at her, “How uncouth and insensitive can you be? I’m beginning to understand why Marah loathes you the way she does…”

    “Did you have a purpose in coming here?” Reva stepped toward the defense side, “Because I’ve never had problem with you Mel, but my relationship with my daughter is not up for discussion. Perhaps you should go before you say something you will regret later.”

    “I was pregnant Reva!” She announced, “Pregnant with my first child. Do you remember what it was like when you first found out you were pregnant for the first time? The joyous feeling you had, how worried you were about bringing a new life into the world…but then of course you were probably worried for different reasons…”

    “Okay you’ve said enough.” Reva retorted as she went towards the door.

    “Your crazy sister ruined that for me. I lost my baby because of what Roxie did. And since the day I found out I held myself responsible, but I shouldn’t have. Because I hold you responsible, Marah’s right you and your actions are to blame for all of this and no one is holding you responsible.”



    “That may very well be how it appears.” Reva snapped, “But my momma used to say the good Lord giveth and the good Lord taketh away, so before you come into this house blaming me for what has transpired Mel…maybe you should reexamine your life again.”

    “And just what the hell does that mean?”

    “It means if I hadn’t done what I did and take Richard off life support you wouldn’t even have a husband right now. So before you go getting all high and mighty on me, in my house, mind you…I suggest you remember whose heart is beating in your husband’s chest right now.”

    “That maybe the case, but one day Reva…one day, you are going to get what you so rightfully deserve.”

    “You’ve overstayed your welcome Mrs. Bauer…now get out!” Reva demanded as Mel headed towards the door.

    “Gladly!”

    **********

    “I don’t mean to sound crass but I have a meeting at Cedars in half an hour.” Bill announced as he took a seat at the Bauer table.

    “I talked with both my father and Claire about an amino DNA test, however after the fifth month they become extremely high risk for the mother and child. So I went with Plan B…”

    “Which was?” Danny questioned.

    “Pin-pointing the date of conception.”

    “Are you joking Michelle?” Bill erupted, “Seriously?”

    “No I’m not Bill. In fact Claire…” The mere mention of her name caused Danny to roll his eyes, “And I worked for hours yesterday going through my medical charts and we came to a very clear answer. There was two weeks difference in between the time Danny and I slept together, Bill…”

    “Bill…Danny…” Michelle bordered on tears, “I love you both more than either of you are willing to realize, but Bill…you are the father of my baby.”

    “How sure is Claire?” Bill asked before she could answer.



    “I’m not buying it Michelle.” Danny interrupted, “Claire Ramsey hates me with every bone in her vengeful body. So until you produce hard, concrete evidence I won’t accept that Bill is the father of this baby.”

    “You can’t drop it can you Danny?”

    “Do you honestly want to raise my child as your own Bill?” Danny asked with no answer, “I didn’t think so. When is your due date?”

    “May 16th.” Michelle answered, “I know that you don’t believe me…”

    “It’s not that I don’t believe you Michelle.” Danny told her, “But I have to much on the line here to put all my trust and faith into a calendar and Claire.”



    “So where do we go from here?” Bill asked as Michelle leaned against the bar holding her stomach listening to the men talk amongst themselves.

    “STOP IT!” She shouted at the top of her lungs, “Both of you shut up. You want to know where we go from here? Fine, I’ll tell you both…” she flung open the back door, “The both of you can get the hell out. You want to know where we go from here? Well, we…go nowhere. You asked me to find out who the father of this little girl is and I did. You can’t accept my answer then I don’t want to see either one of you until she is born.”

    “Michelle…” They both reasoned and Bill spoke again, “You can’t do this on your own.”

    “Why not Bill? I’m much more stronger than either of you give me credit for. Now both of you get out…and I mean it I don’t want to see either of you until I have this child. Do you both understand?”



    The men shook their heads in agreement, “Good.” She watched them leave and slammed the door behind her and quickly fell into the first empty chair she found, her mind raced, her heart ached, tears flowed down her cheek and in this moment Michelle missed

    **********

    Blake Thorpe Marler curled up on her bed and looked out the window at her children playing below. Ross had stopped by earlier to visit and Blake had taken the opportunity to make a long overdue telephone call.



    “Hi Daddy.” She softly spoke, almost in a whisper, “I figured I would end up getting the machine, but oh well. It’s great to hear your voice. Anyway…Ross is out back with the kids, they miss you by the way and I thought I would just call tell you how much I love you. As soon as you get this you call me, I miss you. Okay then, well I’m going to let you go…I’ll talk to you later Daddy. I love you.” She ended the call and put the phone on the nightstand and looked out the window again.

    :Fades to Black:

    **********

    Next on "THE GUIDING LIGHT"
    - Lizzie goes to Oakdale!
    - Reva runs away!
    - Alan Michael has a plan!!
  17. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 058
    Thursday April 5, 2007
    Written By: Dan Gobble & Josh Hawkins

    **********

    Holly wakes up and realizes that she fell asleep again. As she regains consciousness, she feels the pain well up in her head. Another migraine. Through squinted eyes, Holly shuffles around the room and picks up a bottle of medicine. She downs it and walks back to the sofa. Holly looks up at the clock. “11. I’m supposed to meet Ed for lunch. I should get up and go. I’ve bailed on him too many times lately.” Holly succumbs to the pain and lies back down. However, the door bell wakes her up. She gets up to answer and finds Ed.



    “Holly, you’re not going to ditch me again, are you?” Ed looks over and sees the disheveled covers on the bed. She’s probably not even out of bed, he thinks.

    “Holly, are you okay? Holly doesn’t respond. Ed grows more and more concerned.

    “Holly?”

    Holly’s eyes roll back into her head as her legs give out. She faints and Ed catches her in his arms.

    “Holly?!”

    **********


    Lizzie arrives at Memorial Hospital in Oakdale to see Braxton. She seems him at the nurses’ station, where a young nurse is flirting with him. She struts over and butts in the conversation. She gives him a hello and plants a big kiss on his lips.

    **********

    Josh and Billy sit at the table in the conference room at Lewis Construction when Wanda barges in. “Josh, your wife is here. Should I let her in?” Josh replies with a yes and Wanda walks back to her office. A minute elapses and Reva walks into the room carrying a suitcase.



    “Hello darlin’ what are you doing here?” Josh asks.

    “I just wanted to stop by and see what you boys were doing,” she replies.

    Josh notices the bag. “Where are you going?”

    “Joshua, I’ve decided to leave Springfield for awhile. I need to catch my breath. It’s not like anyone is going to miss me anyway.”

    **********

    The Spaulding jet lands on the landing strip at Bar Harbor. Alan-Michael Spaulding runs out and glances around to see if he can see Lucy among the crowd. He sees a bunch of paramedics pushing a comatose Harley on a gurney. A-M looks at her and wonders what could have happened to cause this. He asks one of the paramedics as to the whereabouts of his wife.

    A-M took the car and drove within 10 minutes to the crash site and sees Lucy staring out over the rocky shore.



    Lucy realizes that he is there and runs into his arms. The misdeeds of the past appear forgiven for the moment at least as she gives him a big kiss.

    “Have they found Aunt Alex yet?”

    “No. The paramedics say that there is no way that she could have survived the impact."

    Alan-Michael wipes a tear from his eye and the two look out over the horizon.

    **********

    Meanwhile, in a shack about a mile down the road in the Maine woods, a fisherman returns home with a bucket of water. He sees the woman on the bed. Pretty beaten up, he mutters. The man remembers when he found her near the shore. He walks up and dabs a wet rag on her forehead. After tending to her wounds, he crosses the room and works on cleaning the fish he caught earlier this morning. Suddenly, she begins to stir. The man runs over and asks her if she will be okay.

    “Where am I?” she asks.

    **********

    And Now "The Guiding Light"
    Opening

    **********

    “Are you kidding? Here is someone who is going to miss you if you left. Why don’t I let Billy take over the project and you and I will take a long, relaxing vacation,” Josh offers.

    “No, you guys have too much work with the Cedars project. Besides, I’ll have enough company to occupy my time. I’ve decided to go to Tulsa to see Hawk and Rusty. Rusty bought a new farm that he’s been dying for me to see. Then, I want to go to San Jemar to see Jonathan. Now that the stalker mess is over, I want to make sure that he’s okay.”

    “Reva, did you have another blowout with Marah?”

    “Marah? No. I’ve been calling her, but she’s still treating me like some primordial ooze. Mel Bauer came to the house earlier today and berated me for Roxie’s actions. Evidently, she was pregnant and lost the baby because of Roxie. I’ve let down my sister, my daughter, and now my friends are being hurt because of my problems. I’m beginning to rack up a long list of enemies in this town aren’t I?” She sobs. “I just, I don’t understand why everyone is putting the brunt of the blame on me? I didn’t put the gun in Roxie’s hand, I didn’t ask her to stalk me. I didn’t—“

    Josh reaches over and pulls her into an embrace. Reva places her head on his shoulder and cries.

    “It’s all gonna be okay. It’s all gonna be okay…” he repeats softly to her.

    **********

    “Holly? Holly?” Ed repeats. He picks her up and places her on the sofa. Suddenly, she comes to, her eyes dart around the room to see where she is.



    “What happened?” she asks.

    “You fainted again Holly.”

    “Oh God,” she sighs. She begins to feel her head pounding again, as if she has been in a deep sleep.

    “I’m guessing this means that your headaches aren’t getting any better right?”

    “Nope. Some days it takes so much effort just to get out of bed in the morning. I haven’t gone to work. I have a stupid message on my answering machine from every person in this town wondering where I am. No matter what I do, these migraines just aren’t going away. I’m not sure what to do…”

    “Why don’t you come with me to Cedars and we can get you checked out?”

    “Ed, I can deal with this, I can—“

    “Holly, please. Can you do it for me? I’m getting much too old to be carrying damsels over the threshold.”

    “I hate it when you start to make sense,” Holly cracks a small smile.

    “Well, you better make a note of it; it happens so rarely. Come on. You go up stairs and I’ll wait for you.”

    Holly nods her head and then walks slowly up the stairs to get ready.

    **********

    Lizzie looks over to the nurse and says “Sorry, he’s taken. So if you don’t want me to get angry, I’d suggest you’d get out of here.” The nurse leaves, taking the not-so-subtle hint.

    Braxton smiles and asks, “What are you doing here?”

    “Well my mom always said that young guys like you need to be kept on a very short leash,” she coos and gives him another kiss.

    Braxton looks at his watch. “Lizzie, it’s almost my break, so we can go to the cafeteria and talk, unless you want something a little more upscale than chicken fingers and fries.”

    “That’s fine by me,” she says.

    The two walk over to the elevator hand in hand and leave the floor.

    **********

    “I feel like it is all my fault, Alan-Michael. If I would have just gotten here a little faster, Harley would not be in a coma and Alexandra would not be de—“

    “Don’t say that,” he interrupts. “There is nothing that you could have done. All we can do now is pray that Harley gets the best care that she can get and that she comes out of the coma alright. And we don’t even know for sure that Aunt Alex is dead. We didn’t find a body.”

    “But the paramed—“

    “What do they know? Miracles happen, Lucy. We just have to pray that this is one of those times. Besides, she's Alexandra Spaulding for God's sake."

    “Oh daddy! He must be worried sick about Harley. Can you take me to see him, please?”

    “Sure thing,” he says. However, A-M’s phone rings and A-M guides Lucy to the car. He answers the phone. The PI speaks on the other end of the line. “Boss, I’m about to follow your instructions beginning in a few minutes. The subject should be coming around soon,” he says.



    “Good, keep me informed will you?” A-M flips his phone and walks proudly over to the car.

    **********

    Reva lets go of Josh’s arms and wipes the tears from her eyes. “I’m okay. I just needed to get it all out,” she says to him.

    “Honey, I know that everything is going to turn out okay. It will take awhile, but Mel and Marah will realize that it was not your fault.”

    “I hope so. I don’t think I can take much more of this. My pariah days are long gone.”



    “Are you sure that you don’t want me to go with you?” Josh asks.

    “I’m sure. You can help me by staying home and working on this project.”

    “Okay. Make sure you call me when you get to Hawk’s and call as much as you can.”

    Reva and Josh walk out into the waiting room.

    “Wanda, make sure these boys aren’t working too late.”

    “Will do,” Wanda smiles.

    Reva gives Josh a big hug and walks out of the office.

    **********

    At Cedars, Holly and Ed wait in one of the rooms for a doctor to come see them. The doctor walks in and looks at Holly’s chart.

    “Miss Lindsay, after a full checkup, we were unable to find anything medically wrong with you. The test all came back negative. The symptoms that you are experiencing could be psychosomatic. Nevertheless, we will give you a prescription for a mild pain reliever for the headaches.”

    “Are you saying that all of the migraines are all in my imagination?”

    “Perhaps, but further tests would have to done to rule out everything.”

    “Thanks doctor,” Holly says as he walks out of the room.

    “What is wrong with me? First I’m accused of being Reva’s unbalanced stalker, now I’m dreaming up headaches. I must be nuts.”

    “Hey, you heard the doctor. Just because we don’t have a test for it, doesn’t mean that there is nothing wrong with you. Doctors are fallible too. We can get a second opinion.”

    “And what can they tell me that I don’t already know Ed? That I am certifiably insane? I knew this was coming. I just knew it.”

    Holly puts her hand on her head.

    “Ed, I hate to be a party pooper, but could you just take me home. I think I’m going to take some of this medicine and pray that it works.”

    Ed agrees, gives Holly her coat. They walk out of the room more deflated than they had been when they came.

    **********

    Braxton and Lizzie sit in a booth in the hospital cafeteria. The place is filled with hungry doctors hurriedly eating their lunches. Lizzie looks up at him in between bites and smiles at him.

    “So. Back there you said that I was taken. What did you mean by that?” he smiles back.

    “It’s just the Spaulding way. If we see something that interests us, we snatch it up. But seriously, I must say that you made a good first impression. I was hoping to have another encounter, maybe more, if you would want.”

    “Why don’t I take you out for a night on the town tonight? I get off in a few hours and I know that the cafeteria isn’t exactly the best place for a first date.”

    “I’d like that. But I always like to know the men that I go out with and I realized that I don’t know much about you Braxton. Who exactly is Braxton O’Dell? Where did you come from? Did you have any other relationships?”



    “Wow, straight to final Jeopardy,” Braxton answers. “Well, I was born with ten fingers and ten toes and I can make the best Tony Danza impression that you’ve ever seen.”

    “Seriously,” Lizzie laughs.

    “Okay, I had a pretty normal childhood. A dad. A mom, they were married a few years before I came along and he died in 2001. Mom moved to Vegas, I went to med school and here we are."

    "Your mother still live in Vegas?"

    "No, mom moved to Springfield a couple of weeks ago and is trying to find a steady job."

    “Oh really? Why are you over here then when you can be with her? Why don’t you move closer to Springfield?” Lizzie flirts.

    Braxton tries to evade the other question and smiles at the hint. He’s amused to say the least.

    **********

    The mysterious woman begins to wake up. She attempts to get a bearing as to where she could possibly be. Her memories begin to piece together. She can recall the sea air and the sound of the waves crashing.

    The woman begins to look around the room. What a dirty place, she realizes. This man looks as if he was washed up by the tide. The man tried to place a rag over her head. The woman evades his hand, disgusted.

    “Oh God, I’ve died and gone to Hell haven’t I?”

    “If you don’t mind me asking ma’am, who are you?” the man asks.

    “My name is Alexandra Spaulding and where the hell am I?”



    :Fades to Black:

    **********

    Next on "THE GUIDING LIGHT"
    - Holly gets the shock of her life!
    - A-M blackmails Shayne!
    - Family and friends keep vigil over Harley.
  18. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 059
    Monday April 9, 2007
    Written By: Dan Gobble & Josh Hawkins

    **********

    The mysterious woman begins to wake up. She attempts to get a bearing as to where she could possibly be. Her memories begin to piece together. She can recall the sea air and the sound of the waves crashing.

    The woman begins to look around the room. What a dirty place, she realizes. This man looks as if he was washed up by the tide. The man tried to place a rag over her head. The woman evades his hand, disgusted.

    “Oh God, I’ve died and gone to Hell haven’t I?”

    “If you don’t mind me asking ma’am, who are you?” the man asks.



    “My name is Alexandra Spaulding and where the hell am I?”

    **********

    The EMTs wheel Harley into the Emergency Room at Cedars Hospital. Her friends and family sit anxiously in the waiting room, hoping that the doctors will come with news of Harley’s condition. Soon, a doctor enters the room and calls for their attention.

    “How is my daughter? Can I see her,” Buzz says.

    “Harley has slipped into a comatose state. We are unsure of how long she will remain in the coma or if she will wake up at all. The next few weeks will be crucial.”

    **********

    Shayne meets Derek at his place with a sack full of movies and popcorn for the night. They meet at the door and kiss. They hear a muffled “click” and look around to see where the sound could have come from.

    “What was that?” Derek asked.

    “Dunno. Don’t hear anything now? But anyway. Hey man. Hope you’re in the mood to laugh. I have some classics here. They’re hysterical.”

    They enter, not realizing that Alan-Michael’s private investigator is watching their every move.

    ***********

    Holly looks at the bottle that she received earlier from the doctor at Cedars.

    “I doubt this will work, but bottoms up,” she says and downs the pill. She shuffles over to the sofa. She gets underneath the covers and turns out the light. However, she no sooner gets into bed when she hears a knock on the door. Grumpily, she gets out of bed and wanders over to the door.

    “Who the hell could that be,” she wonders.

    She opens the door and sees Amanda Spaulding-Thorpe.

    “What the hell are you doing here?” she asks. “Aren’t there enough babies you can steal candy from in California? And where’s Roger? Isn’t he with you?”

    “Holly, now is not the time for insults. Roger, Roger had a heart attack a few nights ago. He died in his sleep.”

    *********
    And Now "The Guiding Light"
    Opening

    **********

    Holly closes the door and walks to Amanda, who is sitting in a chair.

    “Amanda, you should know better. If someone had heard you say that Roger was dead, the town would start parading down Fifth Street!”

    “Holly! How can you be so cruel?” Amanda asks.

    “How dare you! Roger raped me and made my life a veritable Hell for years. I think I have a right to be cruel. Besides, I don’t believe you. Don’t you know that it’s a little later for April Fools jokes,” Holly says.

    “I’m not joking Holly.”

    “Oh please, this is just like him. I pumped three bullets into his chest and then later, I saw his body smash against a rock in Santo Domingo. I thought he was dead. Yet, lo and behold, he returns fifteen years later. If there’s one thing I’ve learned about Roger, it is that Hell won’t have him. Why did you think that I would believe you? Hell, I’m sure Roger’s even convinced you to wear a wire so that he can have a good laugh later at my expense. What I’m wondering is how he roped you into this.”

    “It’s not one of Roger’s little games Holly and I can prove it!”

    **********

    Alex’s host has succeeded in calming her down. He walks to the stove and puts a kettle on the burner for tea.

    “Do you remember anything that happened before you got hear ma’am?”

    “I think I remember most of it. Not that I’m going to tell you all the sordid details, but I was arguing with someone I knew on the cliff in the rain. I was at a cabin and the fight continued in the car. Then we went over the embankment and that’s all I remember.”

    Alex’s mind begins to put the pieces back together. She can now remember most of the details of the accident. She can still hear Lucy’s call echo through her mind.

    “Well ma’am, you sure must have had a good fall. You had a pretty good bump on the head when I found ya. You must have fallen out of the car. I was fishing and saw some flames that were caused by the car. Then I found you and brought you here.”

    “Why didn’t you notify the police or someone when you found me? I could have been bleeding to death!”

    “Sorry ma’am, got no phone or car. All I got around me is this here woods. Pretty peaceful I gotta say.”

    “You don’t say,” Alex says condescendingly. “Well I guess this place is better than the deserted island I was stranded on years ago. I better go off to look for a telephone.”

    “Ma’am, I don’t think that’s a good idea. You just got up after all.”

    “Oh, I’ve survived worse,” she says as she leaves the shack.

    **********

    Derek and Shayne make out through the movie. Halfway through, Shayne’s cell phone rings. He answers it. Josh is on the other line. He tells Shayne to meet him back at home in a little while. Shayne closes the phone and wonders how he is going to break the news.



    “Who was that Shayne?” Derek asked.

    “My dad. He wanted me to meet him back at home. So I’m gonna have to get going. I’m sorry Derek.”

    “That’s okay. Here, I’ll make you a deal. I’ll let you go, but I want to borrow Spaceballs for the night.”

    “Oh ok,” Shayne concedes.

    They walk onto the porch and kiss each other goodnight. Shayne glances back as Derek shuts the door. Shayne walks down the street to his car, when he hears the clicking sound again.

    “Is anyone there? I’m armed and dangerous, so if you don’t want to end up as sushi, you better leave!”

    “That’s okay, I’ve always liked sushi,” a mysterious voice said in the bushes.

    “Who are you? Come out!”

    The mysterious man springs from the bushes.

    “Alan-Michael, what the hell are you doing here?!”

    **********

    Harley lies on the hospital bed, surrounded by all her friends and family, including Gus, Lucy, Buzz, Frank, and Vera.

    “I don’t understand how this could have happened. What would have made Alexandra go off a cliff?” Buzz asks.

    “I don’t know, but we’re going to find out, I promise Dad,” Frank answers.

    Vera squirms, knowing that sooner or later her cover will be blown. Lucy notices her discomfort and wonders what could be going on.

    “We’ll have to wait until Harley gets out of bed to know what really happened since it appears that we can’t ask Alexandra,” Gus says.

    Vera slinks out of the room. Lucy sees her leave and follows her out the door. Vera walks to the hospital chapel and approaches the altar. Lucy walks in and confronts her.

    “Vera, you wouldn’t know by any chance why Alexandra and Harley got into that accident would you?”



    “Of course not darling, I wasn’t even there.”

    “But I’m sure you knew what was going on Vera because you were involved with it. Are you sure you are Gus’ mother?”

    “I am sure. How many times do I have to tell everyone that? I am Gus’ mother. I gave him to the Augustinos about thirty odd years ago. I was only the Spaulding maid and wasn’t being paid that much. I tried to give him a better life with them and now that he is here, I want a relationship with him.”



    “You are such a liar! Don’t you realize that Alexandra has died and Harley could die because of this secret that you were hiding! I want to know right now!”

    Gus interupts them and enters the room.

    “Yes. I want to know too. And you better not be lying “mom.”

    **********



    “What is this?” Holly asks.

    “It’s his death certificate. Read it.”

    “These can be faked you know that right? Come on Amanda! I’m a journalist! Humor me. Show me proof. Show me a body!”

    “Fine. I will. One of Roger’s dying wishes was to be buried near his great love. You, Holly,” Amanda says with a hint of jealousy. “Despite everything, he still talked about you all the time. It made me sick. He loved you so much despite me being his wife.

    Holly’s ears perk up..

    “What do you mean? Roger’s body hasn’t miraculously disappeared into the night?”



    “No, of course not. Roger wanted a closed-casket funeral, but he wanted you to see him first. He knew you would be skeptical.”

    Holly begins to realize that Amanda may be telling the truth. Immediately, she thinks of Blake. She loved him so much. It will break her heart if this is true.

    “Damn you Roger.”

    She goes to the phone and dials the carriage house. “Blake, you need to come over here, right now.

    **********

    “Oh nothing Shayne. I just happened to be in the neighborhood—“



    “Save it Alan-Michael. What do you want?”

    “Oh nothing. I just wanted to know what you were doing?”

    “That’s none of your business.”

    “Oh I think it is,” he says as he produces a photo of Shayne and Derek kissing.

    “Say cheese!”

    “Where did you get that?!” Shayne stammered.



    “This? I have my sources. But wouldn’t The Mirror love this headline: Talkshow Host’s Son Gay! And of all people Reva. What delicious irony. I hope you both don’t have the same taste in men.”

    Shayne rushes at him ready to strike. However, A-M dodges the attack.

    “I don’t think you want to do that Shayne. I have the leverage now. You are going to do what I tell you to or I am going to tell your secret to everyone who will listen.”

    “What do you want me to do?” Shayne laments.

    “I want to cement the Cedars deal and you are going to help me. One way or another.”

    :Fade to Black:

    Next on “The Guiding Light!”
    - Blake learns about Roger’s death!
    - Alexandra tries to make her way back home.
    - Vera reveals all!
  19. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 060
    Friday April 13, 2007
    Written By: Josh Hawkins & Dan Gobble

    **********

    “Is Blake on her way?” Amanda Spaulding-Thorpe adjusted herself in the chair.

    “Yes.” Holly poured herself a glass of water, “Amanda would you like something to drink, I’m afraid all I have is club soda.”

    “No I’m fine.” She sighed heavily, “When she gets here we should discuss the arrangements. Roger’s body will be…”

    Holly held her hand up to stop Amanda mid-sentence, “No as a matter of fact we won’t be discussing anything of such.”

    “Holly he wanted you and Blake included in the process.”

    “And we very well will be. But I will not allow you to bombard my daughter with this news. No, you will sit there in that chair and keep your big mouth shut, I will tell her about Roger.” Holly informed her as a deadening silence fell over the room.

    “Holly…Amanda…” They both spoke at the same time, “Go ahead.” Amanda gestured, “What were you going to say?”

    “Did he suffer?” She bordered on tears for the first time since the devastating news, “Was he in any pain?”

    **********

    “Gus?” Vera asked shocked, “You think I’m lying?”

    “I don’t know what to think anymore. Harley is in there fighting for her life and the one person, the only person I know who knew the truth is dead.”

    Lucy cut her eyes toward Vera, “She knows the truth Gus or at least her version of it.”

    *********
    And Now "The Guiding Light"
    Opening

    **********

    “No.” Amanda answered, “Besides be reasonable if Roger was sick who do you think would have been the first person he called? It certainly would not have been me.”

    “He would have called Blake and we both know it.”

    “And you would have been a close second and I a distant third.”

    Holly set her glass down and glanced at her watch, “Why is that you resentment? You’ve been his wife for years Amanda, on some level Roger loved you.”



    “And on every level that mattered he loved you.” Amanda shot back, “There was a huge place in his heart Holly that I was never allowed because it was yours.”

    The words struck her to the core, “Perhaps we should just sit in silence while we wait for Blake.”

    “Fine.” Amanda replied, “Fine by me.”

    **********

    “Gus…” Rick came out of Harley’s room, “You should come in and here this, Lucy you should as well.”

    “Just one minute and I’ll be in.” Lucy reached out and grabbed Vera’s wrists, “You and I…we’re not done.”

    Through clinched teeth, “You let go of me Lucy. Who the bloody hell do you think you are?”

    Lucy didn’t let go, “Who the hell am I?” she questioned.

    Vera managed to free herself, “I don’t know what you problem is with me and quite frankly I could care less.”



    “Alexandra died in the car accident and my sister could very well do the same. So tonight Vera when you lay that bleached blond head of yours down to sleep you let my words ring in your ears…if Harley dies I will hold you responsible and I will do everything in my power as Mrs. Alan-Michael Spaulding to make you pay!”

    “Your threatens, Lucy…they don’t scare me.”

    “That’s your first mistake, underestimating me. You are far to concerned about Alexandra’s demise.”

    “She was my friend, of course I’m concerned. And I don’t underestimate you Lucy, far from it. I am Gus’ mother and that is the end of the story.”

    “It damn well better be.” Lucy spun around and headed toward Rick’s office.

    **********

    Blake knocked on the door and walked into Hollybend, “Mom I got over here as fast as I could…” she froze in mid-step, “What is she doing here?”

    “Blake.” Amanda stood, “Lovely too see you again.”

    “Mom?” Blake cut her eyes toward Holly, “Did you know she was here?”

    “Of course I knew she was here. Blake…”

    “Did my father come with you?” She interrupted before Holly could finish. The room stood silent for a moment, “It’s not a difficult question…”

    “Come sit down Blake.” Holly patted the sofa. “Amanda has brought some devastating news with her.”

    “Did my father finally cut you off? Or wait, wait let me guess he finally came to his sense after all these years and kicked you to the curb?”

    Amanda shook her head, “Blake you and your mother have a lot to discuss so I’m going to leave you to it.”

    Blake watched as Holly walked Amanda to the door, “Be careful out there it’s so cold, nothing like California.”

    “And you be careful in here. I’ll call you in the morning.”

    “That will be fine, yes. Good-bye Amanda.”

    Holly turned back to Blake, “You were surprisingly cordial to her.”

    “She came with very devastating news honey. Roger had a heart attack…”



    “When?” A solemn Blake questioned, “”Mom?”

    “A few nights ago, Blake I am so sorry…”

    “No…” she whimpered, “no…”

    Holly opened her arms and walked toward Blake the sight of her daughter’s pain brought tears to her eyes, “Momma…” her voice cracked.



    “Come on let’s sit down here on the sofa…” the two women took a seat, “she said he didn’t suffer so that’s of course something to be grateful for.”

    Blake couldn’t speak she just closed her eyes tightly and floated back to her childhood days when Holly would hold her in her lap and lightly stroke hair, exactly like she was doing now.

    **********

    Vera had spent ten minutes in the chapel praying for Alexandra, Harley and most importantly herself. If Alexandra was dead then she just had to trust she took their secret to her fiery grave. She slipped back down the hall, Lucy’s words ringing in her ear…

    “I will do everything in my power as Mrs. Alan-Michael Spaulding to make you pay!”

    The door to Harley’s room was closed and Vera lightly pushed the door open, “Buzz.” She was surprised to see him there, “I thought you would be with the rest of the family.”

    “I just wanted some time alone with her.” He didn’t move an inch just spoke softly, “You know we have a lot in common.”



    “You and I?” Vera asked.

    “Seems that way. I ran off on Harley and Frank a long time ago. Just came back into the life about twelve, thirteen years ago.”

    “Gus never mentioned that.”

    “Not something I’m proud of.” He looked up at her, “Nadine…she was something else you almost remind me of her.”

    “Is that a good thing?” Vera smiled.



    Buzz didn’t respond he just kissed Harley’s hand and focused all of his attention on her.

    Vera slid her hands over Buzz’s shoulders and whispered, “Our children need us now more than ever Buzz, more than ever.”

    **********

    By the time Alexandra arrived back at Spaulding house in Bar Harbor she was missing a high heel, her ear was bleeding, she had scrapes, bruises and injuries that she should have looked out.

    By the time Alex made her way into the study she collapsed to the sofa and reached for the newspaper to see what day it was. The headline caught her attention before anything: “SPAULDING ENTERPRISE COO DEAD”



    “Sweet Jesus in heaven…” Alex sighed, “I’m dead. They think I’m dead.”

    :Fade to Black:

    Next on “The Guiding Light!”
    - Mike Bauer returns to the Springfield canvas!
    - Lucy's guilt shines through.
    - Ed learns of Roger's death!
  20. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 061
    Wednesday, April 18, 2007
    Written By: Dan Gobble & Josh Hawkins

    **********

    The morning sun creeps through the window of Holly’s bedroom. Holly peers out the window to the back yard below. The small buds that will become leaves have popped out of the ground. She then looks at her lap and sees Blake nestled there. Holly strokes her head and contents herself remembering days long past. Dark rings surround her eyes; she hasn’t slept a wink. As she reminisces, flashes of the past flare up again. She sees Roger in front of her.

    “You love him don’t ya! You love him! Why don't you look at me that way?” he yells as he bashes his fists into his chest.

    The image changes and Holly sees a very different side to him.

    “How could I have destroyed what I loved best and made even the loveliness of it so ugly to you?” he says.

    These thoughts have jumbled her mind and kept her up all night. “I have to be strong,” Holly says. “I have to be strong for Blake’s sake.” Holly looks down again and strokes her hair.

    **********

    Amanda Spaulding-Thorpe walks into the Spaulding dining room and sees Alan sitting back puffing on a cigar.

    “I’m so glad you’re taking Roger’s death so well Alan!”

    “Why shouldn’t I celebrate the passing of an enemy? I’ve been waiting for this moment for years. Roger Thorpe is dead! I never thought I’d see the day! It’s just a shame Alexandra isn’t here to see it.”



    “Yes, but I was hoping that for my sake that you would stop it. He was my husband and I did love him.”

    “The man was a bastard Amanda. He terrorized this town. Even his own family wasn’t safe. You know what he did to Alexandra. Why do you keep defending him?”

    “You know, some people would say the same about you! Do I need to remind you that you and Brandon took her children from her? Or perhaps any of the countless schemes that you have engaged in? You are no better than him!”

    Amanda storms out of the room, passing Beth and Phillip on the way out.

    “I was wondering about this storm that’s supposed to blow into town this week,” smirks Beth. “If it gets cold enough it’ll snow they say.”

    “Dad, what happened? Why did Amanda run out?” Phillip says as they sit down. Alan-Michael and Lucy enter the room and sit down.

    “Oh, she will be fine,” Alan assures them. “She’s just going through the mourning process. How you could mourn the loss of Roger Thorpe, I just don’t know?”

    Beth stands up to make an announcement to the family.

    “Everyone, I spoke with the funeral director this morning, he’ll help schedule Alexandra’s memorial. They were booked until Friday, so that is when the memorial will be.”

    Each family member glances at each other as they remember Alexandra.



    “I’ll take off. I want to come,” Lucy says.

    **********

    Meanwhile, Alexandra enters a hotel room. She has returned to Springfield but has decided to freshen up before announcing her resurrection. She hears a knock on the door and opens it to find a hotel messenger. “Here’s a copy of the paper like you asked,” he says. Alex closes the door and reads. “Former Spaulding Exec Dead,” the headline reads.



    Alexandra sees the picture on the cover and shutters. “Roger?”

    The paper drops out of her hands and hits the floor.

    *********
    And Now "The Guiding Light"
    Opening

    **********

    Billy Lewis sits at home reading the newspaper. “That son-of-a-bitch is finally dead,” he thinks. He flashes back to the time when he thought he had finished the job himself. Billy stares at Roger through the potting shed window, a revolver pointed at his chest. The bullet shatters the window before piercing Roger’s chest.

    Billy comes back from the subconscious visions and thinks of Mindy. He picks up the phone and dials her New York address.

    “Hey darlin’. How is my little girl doin’?”

    “Daddy, I’m fine. I’m not a little girl anymore you don’t have to keep checking up on me,” Mindy complains.



    “Mindy, you know that that is what I do best. But this isn’t a check up call. Guess who died? Roger Thorpe of all people!”

    “Are they sure?” Mindy asks. “Did they find a body this time?”

    “The Journal says they did. But you can never tell with Thorpe. The paper says that the funeral will be held tomorrow. Why don’t ya come and give your old man some company?”

    “You mean you are actually going to the funeral? Don’t you think that’s a little much Daddy?”

    “Well honey, in times like this ya gotta go to show the good Lord what kinda person you are.”



    “Uh-huh,” Mindy says. “I don’t believe you.”

    “At any rate, it could be fun. A little Roger Thorpe roast could be more fun than a barrel of monkeys.”

    “My meeting got pushed back till Friday so I guess I can stop by. Marah’s still here with me, so I’ll drop her off.”

    “Good. I’ll see you later darlin’.”

    Billy places the receiver and grabs the newspaper. He takes one more look at Roger’s photo then throws the paper into the fireplace.

    **********

    Blake wakes up and walks downstairs. Ross lies asleep on the sofa in the living room. She goes to him and snuggles up against him. Holly comes in from the kitchen and sees them together. She can remember what brought Ross to town in the first place. When Roger was on trial for raping Holly, Ross was his lawyer. She remembers him grilling her on the stand, making the rape out to be something that she deserved.

    Under the fictional pressure, Holly drops the tray she was carrying. It hits the floor with a crash, waking up Ross and Blake.

    “Oh I’m sorry,” Holly says, snapping back to reality. “I was bringing some coffee and I, I apparently tripped.”

    Blake gets up and begins to pick up the broken glassware.

    “Honey, don’t worry about that. I’ll get that later. Now that we’re all awake. Let’s get some coffee?”

    They wander into the kitchen and sit at the table. The warm stream of coffee infuses them all with newfound energy to begin the day.

    “We have to call Amanda so that we can get your father’s funeral plans finished,” Holly says in between sips.

    “Do you want me to go with you?” Ross says. “I have a meeting with Doris Wolfe in a bit. But considering the circumstances, I’m sure she’ll understand.”

    “No, I think we’re good Ross. I think we need to do this by ourselves.”



    “Yeah sweetheart. We’ll be fine,” Blake adds, smiling at Ross.

    “In that case, I have got to get ready,” Ross says as he gets out of his chair. He leans down to kiss Blake and walks out of the room.

    When he is out of earshot, Blake laments to Holly. “I still can’t believe Daddy is gone,” she says. Holly reaches over and places her hand over Blake’s hand.

    **********

    Alexandra finishes reading the article and smirks. She still cannot believe that he is gone. Anger and shock mix with venom-laced memories of past confrontations.

    “All you ever wanted was power,” Alex says to Roger who is hovering over her on the country club balcony. “Oh yeah! Well you liked the power that I had over you!” Roger retorts.

    What did I ever see in that man, she thinks. Her mind further ponders the past and the future as she remembers the most recent past few days at Bar Harbor.

    Somewhat sorrowful, somewhat vengeful, Alex replies, “Who has the power now Roger?”

    Alexandra walks over and pours herself a glass of scotch and sits down on the chair.

    **********

    Ross visits Cedars on his way to the meeting. Ed needs to know, he thinks. He meets Ed at his office.

    “Edward, did you read today’s paper?” he said.

    “No, I’ve been on call all night. You know how it is this time of the year. People try to clean their houses and end up with a concussion. It’s a great time of the year. What was in the paper?”



    “Amanda Spaulding is back in town. Apparently, Roger died of a heart attack a few nights ago.”

    “Are you serious?” Ed questions. "I wasn't sure if he even had a heart."

    “Yeah. Amanda is having the body brought back to town.”

    “How is Holly doing?”

    “She seems to be doing okay, but I know that this must have shaken her up,” Ross says.

    “What about Blake?”

    “She’s devastated. Roger was her idol.”

    “I know all about that,” Ed says with a twinge of jealousy.

    “You know, Roger always had impeccable timing. Now even in death, he’s messing everything up.”

    “What do you mean?”

    “This,” Ross says as he pulls out a small box. Ed opens it and sees an engagement ring stuffed in the jewelry box foam.

    “Oh Ross.”

    “Now my plans are cancelled at least until after the funeral.”



    “I’m sure you will get the chance to propose Ross. Blake is going to need you over the next few days. I’m sure that she is really hurting. You need to be there with her.

    **********

    Holly, Blake, and Amanda sit in St. Luke’s church. “Roger wanted his funeral to be here,” Amanda says. Holly can’t help but notice the irony. The pastor says that they need to finalize some details for tomorrow.

    Blake and Amanda walk away with the pastor to plan the details of the funeral as Holly stands in the sanctuary. Holly flashes back into the past. She hears Roger comfort her.

    “Angels persist Holly. Clouds persists, they become showers, they become lakes, and they becomes clouds again and they persist as we persist.”

    Holly walks over to the altar and kneels down to pray.



    “God, help me get through this.”

    **********

    After Ross leaves the office, Ed picks up his phone and calls his brother.

    “Mike, hey its Ed. You’ll never believe this, Roger Thorpe died.”

    “Are you kidding,” said Mike at the other end of the line.

    “That seems to be the catchphrase going around town this morning. But yeah, Amanda Spaulding has his body coming back to town. The funeral will probably be sometime tomorrow.”



    “Hope and I are coming back to town tomorrow ironically. Hope has a new job as an interior designer for the Cedars project. We’ll be arriving tomorrow,” Mike says.

    “Good. I’ll see you soon. Goodbye.”

    Ed puts the receiver down and flashes back. Mike and Ed have had some adventures where Roger Thorpe is concerned. He can remember the hot and muggy jungles of Santo Domingo.

    Ed holds on to Roger’s hands. Below a dangling Roger is the jagged cliff. His hands are too slippery. No, no. He’s slipping. He’s slipping. He makes a final attempt to grasp Roger’s hand, but no luck. He falls, smashing into the rocks below. Holly unleashes a blood-curling scream.

    Ed’s attention is shifted away from the scene from the past.



    He remembers Holly and wonders if she is okay.

    :Fade to Black:

    Next on “The Guiding Light!”
    - Roger’s funeral ensues!
  21. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 062
    Sunday, April 22, 2007
    IN the LIGHT: Roger Thorpe's Memorial Service
    Written By: Josh Hawkins & Dan Gobble

    This episode features the music of Keith Urban. The song used goes hand in hand with the episode and will make your reading pleasure a little more enjoyable. The link to the song is provided below.

    Keith Urban - Tonight I Wanna Cry

    **********

    The clouds were hanging low and black as Amanda Spaulding-Thorpe placed one black high heel and then another onto the pavement in front of St. Luke’s church.

    “Mrs. Thorpe.” She was greeted once inside, “Father Jamison, I’m so sorry that we weren’t able to meet yesterday. My sincere condolences on your loss.”

    “Thank you, that’s very compassionate of you. I don’t think it is going to be something I hear that much of today.”

    “Well…” he searched for the right words, “I’m sure there are many who join you in mourning.”

    Amanda smiled, “No there’s not. You must not have known my beloved and vindictive husband Roger.” She paused, “Has anyone else arrived yet?”

    “No you’re the first. Would you like me to take you to your seat?”

    Amanda shook her head no, “I would like a few minutes alone however.”

    Father Jamison opened the doors, she saw the coffin and walked towards it. “My darling…” she ran her index finger along the top of it. “Always knew it would end here, in Springfield, not death. I made myself believe that the great Roger Thorpe was indestructible and you have to show me up and die!”



    Amanda turned away from him as she usually did when they spoke of Holly. “Even in death you picked her over me. You went our entire marriage loving her, wishing I were her. I felt you resented me at time because I wasn’t Holly. I knew you wanted to leave me, but I looked past that and I gave you my heart.” She turned back to face the casket, “And I’ve never regretted that decision and until the day I am laid to rest next to you, I will never regret it. I may not have been the love of your life Roger, but you were the love of mine.”

    Amanda heard the doors open at the back. Without looking Amanda kissed her hand and in then placed it on the casket, “Goodbye my love, may you finally rest in peace.”

    A single tear raced down Amanda’s cheek as Blake announced her arrival, “Good morning.”

    “I’ll leave you alone.” Was all she said as Amanda headed back down the isle and exited the sanctuary.

    **********

    Alexandra poured herself a vodka-tonic and downed it within one drink.

    “Ready for the fireworks? I’ve waited along time for this.”

    Alexandra recalled life with Roger years earlier. Some of their best confrontations were held at the country club.

    “And that’s before we even get the divorce. Oh I forgot to tell you Roger and I are getting a divorce.”

    “And none to soon. You’re insane if you think I’m sticking around for this.”

    “Oh come on Rog…you’re still smart aren’t you? Don’t you want to hear everything I have to say?”

    She finished off her second drink when a knock came at the door.

    “Your attire from the boutique downstairs ma’am.”

    “Thank you.” Alex spent the next several minutes drinking and putting her assemble on. It was a black pantsuit, a white scarf around her neck and sunglasses to hide her eyes. The truth had been buried for her to long. It was time she set it all straight and let the chips fall where they may.

    “I have a second chance.” She told herself before one final drink, “Okay Alexandra.” She looked in the mirror and stumbled a bit before heading out the door to the waiting car below.

    *********
    And Now "The Guiding Light"
    Opening

    **********

    “I never understood what you saw in that woman.” Blake announced, “But then I was my father’s daughter. I married two Spaulding men, you married two Spaulding women.”



    Blake took a seat on the front pew and looked at Roger’s casket, “I can’t believe you’re in that cedar box. I don’t know what to say to you…I’m angry that you’re not going to be around to see my kids grow up…and I’m sad because…” she choked up, “that I won’t be able to call you whenever Ross and I have a fight, because God knows we will. I actually thought a few months ago that Mom and Ross had rekindled some long lost love affair before I spoiled it all those years ago. And the first thing I thought of was, what would Roger do.”

    She stood and placed her hand on the top of the casket, “No matter what I do from here on out, no matter who I am, whether it’s Mrs. Ross Marler or Blake Lewis,” she laughed at the thought, and “I consider myself blessed and lucky beyond words to be Roger Thorpe’s little girl I love you daddy.”

    **********

    Springfield assembled in the sanctuary of St. Luke’s. It would appear that the entire town had shut down. Everyone was there. Holly, Amanda, Blake and Ross sat on the first row opposite of those who come to pay their respects to the family.

    Father Jamison took to the podium, “We are here to mourn and to celebrate the life of Roger Thorpe…”



    “Apparently he never met Roger.” Ed whispered to Mike and they both chuckled.

    “I have something I want to say about Roger.” Billy stood up from his seat. Mindy reached for his hand.

    “Sit down daddy.” She warned, “Don’t make a scene.” Mindy told him in a whisper, “Please.”



    “Now darlin’…” Billy spoke, “I have to speak my mind because if I don’t I’ll never get the chance to say this again.”

    “Daddy!”

    “All of these people know what type of bastard Roger was.”

    Amanda bolted from her seat, “All right either sit down and shut up Billy Lewis or you get the hell out.”

    “Amanda don’t act like you’re surprised at this.” He reached into his coat and pulled out one of HB’s old pistols.

    “Daddy?! Is that a gun?” Mindy questioned, “What is going on?”

    “Just doing the world a favor and making sure the bastard is dead.” He announced right before firing three holes into the casket, sending the sanctuary into a tailspin.

    “JOSHUA!” Amanda irrupted once more as Blake called out as well, “ROSS!”

    “Joshua you get your brother out of here right this minute.”

    “Billy,” Ross lectured, “that was uncalled for.”

    “Still defended the old son-of-a-bitch?” Billy questioned as Josh took his arm.

    “Marah stay here with Mindy, we’re leaving.”

    Marah shook his head, “I just done it for good measure.” Billy yelled out, “If Roger is really in that box then I know he’s dead for sure.” Before hitting the doors, “You all should thank me for having the guts to do it.”



    Once the doors slammed shut Mindy spoke from her seat, “I am so sorry…”

    “Mindy you are welcome to stay,” Amanda treaded cautiously, her nerves shot, “but do not open your mouth again. And one more outburst from anyone here and I’ll clear this church in a heartbeat and deprive you all from finally seeing what you’ve wanted for years, Roger dead.”

    Blake took over the podium, adjusted the microphone and spoke softly, “Thank you all for being here, despite everything my father has done.” She unfolded a piece of paper and began to read, “Roger Adam Thorpe, successful businessman, father, grandfather, son died last week of a massive heart attack at his California home. His wife Amanda Spaulding of the home survives him. One daughter C. Blake Marler of Springfield, his father Adam Thorpe, five grandchildren…” she paused, “typically this where one would say and a host of friends and family, but that would be wrong. Consider all of you are not my father's friends. None of you were, he just had his casket shot out of God's sakes.”

    “But here you are mocking his memory...you’re all fake and at least my father let you know where you stood with him. If he didn’t like you he let you know it…”

    Her words trailed as the back door burst open and the father rolled his eyes.

    “Am I too late?” A female voice asked, “God I hope not.” Alexandra ripped off her sunglasses, “Roger wouldn’t want me to miss this!” She purred shocking the entire congregation.

    “Alexandra!” Lucy gasped under her breath, “She’s alive.”

    Alex made her way down the isle, “I have a few things I want to say Chrissy…”

    “You’re alive?” Blake replied as she stepped aside.

    “That’s right, I’m alive. Did you all really think hell was ready for both Rog and I?” Alex tapped the microphone, “This is still on right? Good! Roger Thorpe…I was ex-wife… number three was it? And my relationship…” her speech was slurred, “my relationship and my marriage with Rog was a love-hate marriage. I loved to hate him and hated to love ‘em. Because, I did love him…you hear me Roger…I loved you for all of about ten minutes…” she leaned against the podium, “He was always trying to one up me…staying one step…ahead…of me in everyway…even in death. See I’m really dead, or at least that’s what everyone thinks…I guess the afterlife just didn’t know what to do with both of us there so I was spared. I guess I oh Rog some gratitude.” She laughed as Blake approached the podium, “You…step back Blake…I’m done here. I brought this man back into lives when I died the last time, I have right to speak my mind. I was in a plane accident, you remember that don’t you Alan…with Fletcher…” Alex cut her eyes toward Holly, “I was one of the lucky ones, wasn’t I Holly. I managed to get away. It seems to me that we are kindred spirits. Sadly, we also have the same taste in men. I just don’t know why you sit there and mourn the man who raped you!”

    Alex looks around the room.



    “Amanda…where are you? I haven’t forgotten you honey. My sometime sister."

    “Perhaps you should go home Alex, be with your family.”

    “No…” Alex waved her hand in the air, “I have a point to make. You all know Roger’s grieving widow Amanda, my half-sister. It was Roger who uncovered the deep, dark family secret that she was Brandon’s daughter…I knew all along…I know lots of things and I’ve had many, many secrets. Rog brought to us our gold digging, black sheep sister…he did. And I got scared back then after the truth was exposed and in typical Alexandra fashion I ran away.” She nodded her head, “I ran away again recently, because of secret…and I almost…ALMOST!” She raised her voice, “Almost paid the ultimate price…” Alex stumbled away from the podium down to Roger’s casket and slammed her hand down on it, “Save a hot spot for me Rog, maybe in hell we can be friends…” Holly lowered her head in disgust as Amanda approached Alexandra.

    “We’re all very relieved that you are alive and well Alexandra, but I will not allow your tirade to continue. This is my husband’s memorial service, not your own personal soap box.”

    “Shut up Amanda!” She spoke loud and harshly, “Roger is eating this up. And besides if it weren’t for me coming back all those years ago to confirm what I always knew, you wouldn’t even be here. And that’s what I’m about to do, right now…” she pumped her fist into the air, “confirm what I’ve always know…ladies…gentlemen…Rog…my son is here!”

    Mindy looked around her for Nick but no sign of him.

    “Not Nick you little bitch!” Alex shouted at Mindy, “He wouldn’t give you the time of day anymore and I swear to God in Heaven Melinda Lewis you keep your crummy little hands off of him…” she paused to build the suspense even further, “my son…” she shouted, “who I gave up for adoption on my terms, not Brandon’s or Alan’s, but mine…Mr. Gus Aitoro!”

    Gasps swept through the church as a shell shocked Gus froze, Lucy by his side. “Well go on Gus, stand up, and make your presence known. And thank Roger for it…”

    Almost like she had ordered Gus stood up and exited the sanctuary, with Lucy quickly behind him. Alexandra looked across the church at their faces, “What?” She questioned, “You’re all sitting there shocked…don’t be.” She turned back to Blake, “Carry on with your mourning. I have a family to reunite with.”

    **********

    “Are you okay?” Lucy finally caught up with Gus in the parking lot.



    “How am I supposed to answer that?” He fired back…

    “Gus…” Alex caught up with them, “This is not my fault,” she stumbled, “this is not my fault. You wanted the truth and I gave it you.”

    “Alexandra. I think you should have your drive take you back to the mansion.” Lucy suggested, “Let me talk with Gus.”

    “What the hell are you going to do Lucy? Scream my name some more? Because that worked so well the last time.” Alexandra fired off.

    “That’s not fair…” she was hurt, “Don’t you dare, not even for one second place that guilt on me.”

    “She’s right. This is all your doing.” Gus told her, “I’m out of here.”

    “Wait, you don’t want to talk?” Alex asked, “You’ve asked for the truth, you’ve begged for the truth Gus…this is it.”

    “Maybe I only thought I wanted the truth.” He slammed the car door and spun off in a heat of anger.

    “Welcome home Alexandra.” Lucy sighed, “This solved everything, congratulations!”

    “Lucy…”

    “What?”

    “Harley?”



    Lucy stopped mid-step, “Barely Alexandra. And just so you know, until she recovers fully I hold you responsible. Her blood is on your hands. Go have another drink and get the hell out of my sight.”

    **********



    Holly felt the cool air hit her bare legs and she dropped Blake’s hand, “I want to be alone with your father, one last time please.”

    “Okay.” Blake kissed Holly’s cheek. “I’ll ride back with Amanda to the Spaulding mansion, and leave you the car.”

    “Thank you honey.” Holly looked intently at Roger’s final resting spot. “Make sure and tell Ed not to wait on me.”

    “Are you sure? Mom, Ed really is concerned…”

    “Christina!” Holly warned, “I want to be alone with Roger.”

    She stood in silence and waited until she heard the last limo pull away, “She is your daughter, through and through.”

    “I never expected this Roger. Damn you. Damn you. Why is it that whenever I try to put my life back together, you always come to tear it down again? Even in death. Death. Roger, I always thought that you were going to go out in a blaze of glory not quietly into the night. Yet here you are. Not a bang but a whimper.”

    “Well here we are…sorry that your service wasn’t normal, but I think you enjoyed it. You always liked to be the center of drama in this town, gunshots and Alexandra…it’s nothing new to you.” Holly smiled for the first time in a very long while and almost laughed, “I thought Amanda was lying when she said you were dead. I just struggled with the fact that you fell to your death in Santo Domingo and survived. Yet in the end it was your heart that finally gave way. That’s irony for Roger.”

    “I don’t know what to say. I don’t know how to make peace with you, with us or even myself lately. For so long you were a part of me, almost defining who I was. Roger you violated something that was so precious and I’ve never truly recovered from that. You’ve caused so much pain and hurt so many people over the course of your life: me, Ed, Alexandra…and despite it all, despite every flaw that you had, despite you raping me… in spite of our twisted relationship I managed to love you. No one understood you and they never understood us or why you had this hold over me, but that’s okay, because we understood. Our love for one another was ugly, you said it yourself but it was ours…” Holly pulled a single rose from atop the spray, “it was our love and it was okay that no one understood.”

    “You kissed me once at the cliff house and said that I could love you at the end of the world. That’s where we are Roger, at least the end of our world. I love you, maybe not the way you wanted me to, but I did and I will continue to in my own way.” She leaned down to kiss the casket and then placed her hand in the same spot, “Angels persist Roger. Clouds persist, they become showers, they become lakes, and they become clouds again and they persist as we persist. I’ve never forgot those words…and no time soon will I ever forget you.” She stood at the foot of Roger’s casket and ran her hands up to the top, “Goodbye my love.”

    :Fade to Black:

    Next on “The Guiding Light!”
    - Roger's will is read!
    - Alexandra forces Alan to face their demons!
    - Shayne betrays the Lewis family.
  22. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 063
    Friday April 27, 2007
    Written By: Josh Hawkins & Dan Gobble

    **********



    Lucy arrived at Harley’s house early in the morning to check on Gus, after checking and discovering that he was not there she decided now was the perfect time to confront Vera about her lies. Vera comes down the stairs and finds Lucy waiting for her. Lucy tells her that she warned her about lying and that if Lucy ever found out Vera was untruthful she would suffer her wrath! Vera tells Lucy that she should be at the Spaulding mansion rejoicing in the fact that Alexandra is alive and reading Alex the riot act. Vera finally admits for the first time, that she is no Gus’ mother and she’ll be leaving Springfield ASAP. Lucy goes ballistic and corners Vera saying that she does not know what Alex or her had to gain from lying but Harley is paying the price for it. Vera tells Lucy that she should not stand in her way. Lucy says Vera crossed her once and she will not do it again!

    **********



    Billy and Josh finalize their plans for the Cedars project and seal it away for the evening. After they are all done the men go to Towers for a celebratory lunch. Meanwhile at the same time, Shayne arrives at Spaulding Enterprise. A-M questions how he was able to skip school without daddy knowing Shayne tells him to cut the [!@#$%^&*] and get to the point. Shayne asks him what it is going to cost for A-M’s silence. A-M asks him if he likes to please his parents, in particular Josh. Shayne tells him that his parent’s approval is very important to him. A-M says that is good then because they can agree on something…A-M tells Shayne he needs Alan’s approval and to get it he has to land the Cedars project. Shayne says okay and asks what A-M wants and A-M reveals he wants a copy of Lewis Construction’s proposal for the Cedars project. Shayne agrees.

    **********

    And Now "The Guiding Light"

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    **********



    Alexandra arrives at the country club barking orders into her cell phone that Gus must be found, she notes that money has never been an issue before so there is no reason it should be now. Alex looks around the banquet hall and flashes back to when she roasted Roger publicly many years ago. She is brought back to reality when Alan arrives. He asks her what the hell is going with her that she has been all over the map lately. Alexandra tells Alan that he is surprisingly no different than Roger. Alan scoffs at the suggestion and Alex tells him no she’s right. Alexandra says that she has never forgiven Brandon or Alan for ripping Nick and Lujack from her arms all those years ago, Alexandra says no one ever showed me how a man should love a woman, how a man should respect a woman or treat a woman, she notes that is most likely why she even entered into a marriage with Roger. Alexandra says it is because of Alan and Brandon that she ran away and found comfort with Roy Baker and it’s because of them that she gave Gus away so it would be on her terms and not theirs. Alexandra hauls off and slaps the hell out of Alan, calls him a bastard and breaks down…just then Ed arrives and takes her and gets her to calm down.

    **********



    Shayne arrives at Lewis and gets past Wanda who is heading home. Shayne says he needs to do some schoolwork and he thinks he left his jump drive in Josh’s office. Wanda says she’ll wait, but Shayne insists that she go on home the weather looks bad. Wanda notes that he is just the perfect gentleman like his daddy. After Wanda is gone, Shayne turns off the security cameras, snatches the folder from the safe…makes copies, puts it back and turns the cameras back on right where they left off and sneaks out, hoping no one is any the wiser.

    **********



    The banquet room of the county club begins to fill with people for the reading of Roger's will: Amanda Thorpe-Spaulding, Holly Reade, Blake Marler, Cassie Winslow, Michelle Bauer Santos, Ross Marler, Vanessa Chamberlain Reardon, Alan Spaulding, Billy Lewis, Alexandra Spaulding and Dr. Ed Bauer. Roger's lawyer from California arrives and says that he has been Roger's lawyer since 2001 when he made his first living will and that he has since revised it twice, the first in late 2002 and then lastly in early 2007. The attorney begins the reading: A $50,000 donation to the Red Cross in memory of Mrs. Maureen Reardon Bauer. Amanda Spaulding-Thorpe: Their shared California home and sizable amount of money. Also an old fashion baby doll, with a secret compartment in the back of the door that holds a safety deposit box key. Holly Reade: A hand written letter with Roger's writing. The engagement ring he had when he intended to propose to her in 1994 and a sizable amount of money. Alan Spaulding: "The Once and Future King" by T.H. White Alexandra Spaulding: A letter that is to be read aloud. The lawyer reads, "Alexandra, You and I have played out every scene imaginable since we first met all those years ago. I've seen you go from blonde hair to fiery red and I often thought I would see it all turn gray, but that's not the case. I amended my will after Amanda shared with me that you gave Alan the power as CEO of Spaulding. Stupid and foolish where things you never were Alex, you've gone soft and it's sad. So I leave you this Alexandra, a clue. That's all get a clue Alex and realize that when you have the power you do not give away. Heed my advice and hopefully one day you'll kick Alan's ass out of the company, which is what he deserves. Rog." Vanessa Reardon: A chess set. This is because Henry and Roger used to play chess. College trust funds for his five grandchildren: Michelle Bauer Santos shall be the executor of Peter Lewis Reardon’s trust. Blake Marler shall be the executor of Jason Marler, Kevin Marler and Clarissa Marler’s trusts. Cassie Winslow the executor of Roger Joshua Winslow’s trust. Billy Lewis: A sealed envelope that is not to be opened until after the will reading. Dr. Ed Bauer: A hand written letter from Roger that is not to be opened until after the will reading. And finally his beloved daughter, Christina Blake Thorpe Marler: Blake Thorpe Marler: A sizable amount of money, a pair of his mother’s earrings and a sealed envelope to be opened after the reading.
    :Fade to Black:

    Next on “The Guiding Light!”
    - Shayne betrays the Lewis family!
    - Springfield prepares for a storm!
    - Gus returns to face Alexandra!
  23. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 064
    Saturday, April 28, 2007
    Written By: Josh Hawkins & Dan Gobble

    **********

    A new day in Springfield begins…but it will be like no day they’ve ever seen!

    **********

    A meteorologist at WSPR is reporting that the mid-west can expect to see heavy down pour that has a chance of turning severe thunderstorm and possible tornados into the late evening, early morning hours. He warns Springfield citizens to grab their umbrellas today!

    **********

    And Now "The Guiding Light"

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    **********



    Tammy calls Shayne and asks him to come over to The Beacon for the night since the weather is going to be bad they can hold up in the suite, have room service and pay-per-view movies at their beck and call. Shayne says that will be great and reminds Tammy to make sure she has her college applications and brochures out so he can look through them with her. Tammy reluctantly agrees and they hang up, as Shayne is about to go meet with Alan-Michael, Derek calls and Shayne refuses to answer the call, saying he is protecting them at the moment!

    **********


    Olivia tells Sandra that her and Cassie will need her to go to Cedars and meet with Lillian Raines the head nurse there and take a drug test, mandatory requirements. Sandra says that is fine and heads off.

    **********


    Beth meets with a gallery owner in Springfield. Beth immediately begins talking her resume and huge interest in the art industry. Clearly Beth is thinking that the woman is looking to hire a vacant part-time position. But the woman tells Beth that is not the case. The art gallery owner says she knows Lillian through some organizations and Lillian referred her to Beth. The woman says she wants to sell her gallery and retire. Beth is surprised and says that it is something she would have to talk with her husband about and check the revenue and all. The woman offers up Beth all the finical records and tells her to spend as much time with them as possible, but she is only willing to sell to Beth and hopes to do it very soon.

    **********


    Shayne and A-M finally meet and Shayne hands over the information from Lewis to him about the Cedars project. Shayne questions how he knows A-M destroyed the picture, A-M gives him the cell phone and assures he didn’t do anything with it. Shayne is not so willing to trust him but agrees that it’s a chance he was willing to take, Shayne tells A-M to forget this ever happened. A-M tells him to have fun dealing with the rest of his life.

    **********


    Buzz is at Harley’s bedside still willing her to wake up when Frank arrives and suggest they get away for the night. Frank says that Rick is on duty as well as Mel and if there is any change then they’ll call. Buzz does not want to agree and Lucy arrives and says it would do them good, go up to the Bauer cabin, she says she talked to Rick and he agreed. Buzz says that he’ll only go if Lucy comes and she is says that she should stay, but A-M arrives and says that he’ll stay and keep vigil, insisting that it is the least he can do because of what Alexandra done. Buzz finally agrees and they leave for the Bauer cabin, while Ben and Marina arrive at the cabin for a winter wonderland night of passion.

    **********


    Gus bursts through the church doors where Roger’s funeral was just held and says that is exactly where he thought he would find Alexandra!

    :Fade to Black:

    Next on “The Guiding Light!”
    - The storm settles over Springfield...
    - Holly and Ed come to blows!
    - Marina has love on her mind!
  24. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 065
    Monday, April 30, 2007
    Written By: Josh Hawkins & Dan Gobble

    **********



    “Well you are stuck with me.” Ben flipped on the lights inside the Bauer cabin, “That creek is definitely going to cause the roads to flood if the rain doesn’t let up.”

    Marina dropped the bags and wrapped her arms around Ben’s neck, “Stuck with you? Really?” she kissed him, “Is that like a promise?”



    He spun her around much to her delight, “You bet it is!” When he set her down he looked around, “I’m glad we came up here, this place really brings back a lot of memories for me.”

    “Well I’m just glad that you were able to get the time off…” Marina headed towards the bedroom with the bags, “because I think you and I are about to make some memories of our own.”

    “You want me to build a fire?”

    “It’s like May baby.” Marina reminded him, “But I guess it would be romantic. You do that and when you get back…” she winked and disappeared into the bedroom. Ben put the other bag in the closet by the front door and headed out for some wood.

    “I just don’t understand…” Lucy Cooper-Spaulding announced, “I mean I could get text messages about who was voted off American Idol for God’s sake, yet I can’t get reception up here unbelievable.”

    **********

    The thunderstorm predicated earlier the day before settles in over Springfield as Holly Reade flips the television on and settles to the sofa.

    “Let’s take it over to Joe who’s in the weather center watching this storm, Joe.” The news anchor spoke as Holly lowered the volume. She had survived Roger’s death she was almost certain she could make it through a little thunder and rain.

    Spread out over the coffee table were a little bit of work and one to many pictures of days gone by: her and Roger, Blake when she was born…Holly dropped a picture of Roger and it floated to the table.

    As she reclined on the sofa and flipped the television off her mind raced back to the previous day at the cemetery.

    “Angels persist Roger. Clouds persist, they become showers, they become lakes, and they become clouds again and they persist as we persist. I’ve never forgot those words…and no time soon will I ever forget you.”

    A knock on the door brought her back to reality, “Ed.” Holly forced a smile, “What are you doing out in this weather?”

    “Well I haven’t had dinner yet and I thought of you.” He lifted two takeout bags from Company, “How does some Buzzburgers sound?”



    “Um…” she searched for the right words, “thoughtful but I have a lot of editing to do and staff notes to prepare. I’m sorry.”

    Ed shrugged his shoulders, “How about dinner? I won’t stay long.” He pushed past her and on into Hollybend. “I left you alone last night but I don’t think you need to be by yourself tonight.”

    **********

    And Now "The Guiding Light"

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    **********

    “I’m so sad that you’re not going to be here tonight. It’s raining pretty hard.” She spoke into the phone. Danny had taken Robbie to Chicago for a White Sox game. “Okay…hi Robbie. Did you and daddy have a good day?”

    “I know they lost.” She mad a sad face even though he couldn’t see her, “You ate how many hotdogs? Three! You’re such a big boy huh? Okay well put daddy back on the phone…Sounds like you two had a good time…I know you wish you were here, but an overnight stay away from Springfield is what you need right now.” As Danny continued to tell her about the day Marah opened the door and saw a drenched Josh standing before her.

    She motioned him in and covered the receiver, “Go on in, it’s Danny. Oh it’s my dad.” He picked up on the arrival of someone. “I don’t know…okay I’ll talk to you in the morning. Kiss Robbie for me…” Marah laughed out loud, “Bye!”

    “Danny not home tonight?” Josh kissed Marah on the cheek.

    “No he took Robbie to a White Sox game.” At which Josh frowned, “Oh that’s it…pack your bags I’m taking you away from here, I won’t let my daughter live with a Sox fan.”

    Marah handed him a bourdon, “He’s a Cubs fan, but they weren’t in Chicago this weekend and Robbie wanted to go to a baseball game.”

    “I see. But he is a Cubs fan?”

    “Through and through. So what brings you by, this weather is horrible.”

    **********

    Sandra O’Dell closed her umbrella and walked over to the nurse’s station. “Coming down like cats and dogs are out there.” She smiled, “Olivia Spaulding sent me over here, something about a drug test.”

    A nurse quickly started working on her computer, “Name please?”

    “Sandra O’Dell. O-apostrophe-D-E-L-L.”

    “Okay…here we go.” The nurse handed her a brochure, “This explains what the nurse will be doing this evening and the policies here at Cedars.”

    Sandra smiled, “And where do I need to go?”

    “Take the red elevator to the fourth floor and make left and ask for Nurse Raines, she’ll be administering your test tonight.”

    “Raines?” Sandra questioned. “Um what’s her first name?”

    Before the nurse could answer two paramedics burst through the ER doors, “We have a car crash victim!” One shouted, “We need a nurse stat!”

    Sandra didn’t push for an answer, she just walked over to the elevator and got on. “Floor four.”

    Almost as quickly as the doors had opened earlier did they open again on the second floor, “Okay you be careful out there Tina.” Lillian stepped on and pushed the already lit number three. “It’s coming down out there…” she began to speak as she turned to see her companion, “my God.” She gasped…as the lights went out!

    **********



    “Sweetheart if you don’t calm down.” Buzz lectured as he sat the overnight bags down by the front door, “I’m sure if something happens Alan-Michael or Rick will get a hold of us somehow.”

    “I know…”

    “And this was your idea.” He replied, “I was fine staying there with Harley but you and Frank said no this would do us good so let the cabin do its work. Okay?”

    Frank dropped two grocery sacks down, “I still think we should have just gotten a couple of pizzas and called it good.”

    “Please the two of you eat like some college frat boys. Pizza, hotdogs, chips. No sir, not tonight.” She announced, “Tonight I am going to cook you both a real meal. Lucy Cooper’s famous spaghetti delight.” She boasted, “Now go out and get a some wood for a fire this place is freezing.”



    “Yes ma’am.” Frank mocked before heading out the door, “If I have to go so do you.” He told Buzz, “Plus it’ll give you a chance to try and get a signal on your phone.”

    Lucy opened one of the shopping bags and pulled out a head of lettuce as the backdoor opened, “There’s no ways you guys found wood that fast.” She turned holding a butcher knife in one hand.

    “Shi--” Ben cursed under his breath, “Lucy.”

    **********



    He pulled out a large brown envelope from his jacket, “I’ve been carrying this around in the truck for a few days, it’s your mail.”

    “Oh thank you. Mostly junk I would imagine, but it was very thoughtful of you.”

    “Just couldn’t find the right time. I was going to come by last week but Billy said you and Mindy were in New York City.”

    “You could haven given it to Danny, he won’t bite you know.”

    Josh shook his head and sipped his drink, “Well I wanted an excuse to see my little girl, not Danny.” He told her.



    “Well then you picked the perfect night,” a clap of thunder roared outside, “because I have dinner for two from Towers and no one to eat it with. Will you join me?”

    “I’d love to darlin’.”

    **********

    “You think I’m scared of thunder and lighting?”

    “Holly…” Ed pulled out two burgers, “I didn’t say that and you know that is not what I meant. I know how much Roger’s death has shaken you…”

    “I’ve lived without Roger in my life for almost ten years. I don’t know how many times I have to say this but I’m fine.”

    “Do you any sodas?” He asked ignoring her last comment, “You know I haven’t opened my letter from Roger yet. Not even sure if warrants the effort.”

    She nibbled at an onion ring and hoped for both of their sakes she could change the topic of conversation. “Hope said she was staying in Springfield, any particular reason why?”

    Ed got two glasses down from the counter, “She’ll be consulting with either Lewis or Spaulding on the new Cedars project. Do you want ice?”

    “No.” Holly went ahead and cleared the table it was certain that Ed wasn’t going anywhere.

    “Here you go.” Ed sat her glass on the table, “So what would you like to talk about?”

    “This must be yours.” Holly again forced a smile, “I told you I didn’t want ice.”

    “I know, but I thought it would be better with ice.” Ed took his seat, “You don’t mind.”

    Holly sat the glass down and spoke softly, “I do mind actually, Ed. I’ve minded for a very long time and you do not seem to care.”



    Ed looked across at her, “What are you talking about?”

    **********



    “Mrs. Spaulding will be just fine.” Lucy corrected him, “What are you doing here?”

    “I um…”

    “Are you and my niece here? Together?” Lucy glanced over to the bedroom door and saw the bag on the floor, “An overnight bag? There had better be a checkerboard in that bag.”

    Ben swallowed. He did not do well with families, especially the Cooper clan, “Mrs. Spaulding this is not as bad as it looks.

    “Oh you’re right…it’s worse.” Lucy told him, “Do you know who is here with me?”

    “I’m going to assume no one is the wrong answer.”

    “You could say that…my father and…”

    Before she could answer him two doors suddenly opened: the front one and the bedroom…



    “I hope this is hot enough for you?” Marina announced.

    “Marina Nadine!” Frank yelled dropping the wood to the floor as their eyes all met.

    Ben cursed under his breath, Buzz shut the front door, “Are you sure that creek’s flooded by now Lucy?”

    Lucy rolled her eyes and went into the living room, “Marina honey go take off the washcloth that you’re wearing and put on some pajamas. You did remember to bring some PJs didn’t you?”

    Marina shook her head no. “Oh my God Marina!” Frank yelled, “I’m going to hurt you…” he pointed toward Ben, “You had better sleep with both eyes open.”

    Lucy walked over to Frank, “Enough out of you. Okay? No one will be sleeping with any eyes open. Frankie go with Dad outside and get a grip. Marina I brought some sweatpants why don’t you find them in my bag, over there and when you get change come help me cook dinner. Ben…” she cut her eyes toward him and shook her head, “Go up in the attic and bring down the extra cots please and Mel said there was extra bed lines in the closet get those please.”

    After they were all sent on their way she returned to the kitchen, “And here I thought Alan-Michael’s family was dysfunctional.”

    **********

    “You seem to think that I am still the damsel in distress. In case you haven’t noticed, which I don’t think you have I’ve evolved over the last thirty plus years we’ve known one another.”

    “Holly I’ve never said that you were a damsel in distress…”

    “Then stop acting like my white knight who’s come to save me from the big bad world. I went along time without you in my life Ed and I’m still standing.”

    “And when we were together and you fell apart who picked you up?”

    “Because I never learned how to pick myself up…I had to lose you first to learn that.” She fired back at him, “You always think you know what I need, what I want and the fact is you listen, you hear me and then you do whatever it is you want.” Holly reached for the glass, “Do you want ice Holly?” she mocked, “No, I said no and what did you do? You gave me ice.”

    “Oh dear God!” Ed sighed, “Are we really fighting over frozen water?”

    “No…no we are not fighting over frozen water. We are fighting because you always assume you know what is best for me and what I need.” Holly walked across the room, “When are you going to realize that I might survive without you?”

    :Fade to Black:

    Next on “The Guiding Light!”
    - The storm continues to settle over Springfield...
    - Alexandra tells Gus about the past
    - Two ex-lovers find themselves together!
  25. Josh
    The Guiding Light: Episode 066
    Thursday, May 03, 2007
    Written By: Josh Hawkins & Dan Gobble

    **********



    The rain was almost to heavy for Beth to even see the road ahead of her. She glanced down at the speed odometer and then reached for her cell phone.

    “I swear…” Beth talked to herself and unbuckled her seat belt so she could reach her phone. Seconds later it was ringing.

    “You’ve reached Phillip Spaulding with Spaulding Enterprise…” the recording answered, “Phillip, it’s Beth. Honey you won’t believe the meeting I just had with Callie Evans. If you get this message before I get home put get a bottle of wine from the cellar, we have a lot to talk about.”

    “This rain…”

    **********

    “Ms. Spaulding would you like to go ahead and order dinner?” A waitress at Towers asked, “Let me just try my date one more time and if he doesn’t answer I think I’ll just go on home.”

    “Okay.” The waitress shook her head as Lizzie dialed the phone, “Braxton, where are you?” She questioned as his message played, “Hey it’s Lizzie when you get this call me. I’m going to get a room here at Towers, so just come over when you get here. Bye.”

    “Any luck?”

    Lizzie shook her head, “No. I think I’m just going to get a room and stay the night.” She collected her umbrella and purse, “Dominique would you call down to the concierge and have them prepare a suite for the evening?”

    Lizzie headed toward the elevator while in the lobby below Hope Bauer pressed the up arrow and finished her conversation, “Okay well just be careful Daddy and take your time.” She dropped her phone into, “Alan.”

    “Good evening Hope. I was surprised to see you at Roger’s service.”

    “Daddy wanted to go and show his support to Holly, I accompanied.”

    “Your timing was quite convenient.” Alan replied, “Wouldn’t you say?”

    **********

    “Gus!” Alexandra rose from the pew, “I’m so relieved that you’re alright.” She rushed down the isle and reached out to touch his face.

    Gus stepped back, “Don’t.” He warned as he stepped around her. “What are you even doing here anyway?”

    With her back to him, “Roger was a very large part of my life for a very long time, we would fight so much…don’t get me wrong I loathed that man with every fiber of being. But never will I hate a man as much as I hate my father…”

    “Is Roger my father?” Gus questioned.

    **********

    And Now "The Guiding Light"

    <object width="320" height="240"><param name="movie" value=" name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src=" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="320" height="240"></embed></object>

    **********

    “So you feel what Holly, smothered in this relationship?” Ed questioned.

    “Don’t put words in mouth.” She lectured, “I’m just saying that I might want to fall down every once in awhile and that you should let me.” Holly looked out into the stormy night as silence fell over the room, “And I’m sorry if that…” she paused and turned to face him, “actually I’m not sorry.”

    “You’re all over the map right now, maybe you should sit down.”

    “You still don’t understand. I don’t want to sit down. I don’t want you to tell me what to do, Ed.” Holly told him.

    “Where is this coming from? Holly, this isn’t you?”

    She shrugged her shoulders. “Roger’s death has shaken me to the very core and for some unknown reason you chose not to see it. I thought I had made peace with Roger, with the rape and with the fact that even after all he did to me, I still loved him.”

    “And Holly you’ve done so well to move forward with your life. Don’t let this push you further back. This is the control Roger has always had on you and no matter how hard I tried to break the hold he…”



    “Did you just say what I think you did?” Holly stopped him. “You tried to break the hold that Roger had over me? Do you have any idea the living hell I am going through right now? No! Because the only hold Roger ever over you Ed was me…I suffered, not you. I have lived for the last twenty-eight years loving the man who violated me, who took away something so precious and innocent. I lived my life since that day with something bottled up inside, that you could never fix and I could never let go.” Tears raced down Holly’s cheek as she took a step back, almost afraid to say the words aloud. “I loved the man who raped until the day he died and I will continue to love him.”

    **********

    Olivia wrapped the phone cord around her index finger, “Alan Spaulding I don’t know where you are but I suggest you come home, I’m scared.” She paused, “This is your wife in case you’re wondering.”

    As she hung up the phone a gust of wind blew open the French doors for the patio and Olivia jumped out of freight. “Mother nature.” She huffed under her voice as she shut them.

    “Oh damn!” She gasped, “Phillip do not ever sneak up on me like that again. Just about gave me a heart attack.”

    “Jumpy tonight aren’t you?”

    **********



    “This rain is almost too much.” Beth tossed her phone to the passenger seat only to have it fall to the floor. Once it started ringing she reached for it again…as her car hit a large spot of water, sending her hydroplaning off the road and into the ditch…her phone still ringing.

    “Hi, you’ve reached Beth Spaulding, leave a message.” Phillip decided against a message and just hung up, he would see her when she got home.

    Beth felt a sudden pain in her stomach and moaned in pain, “Oh God.” She brought her hand to her temple and felt the blood, “Oh God! Someone help me.” She called out but no one heard her. There was no one around to hear her.

    **********

    “Alan, stop hiding behind bushes and speaking in riddles. If you have something to say, say it.” Hope told him as she stepped on the elevator the doors frozen open for only a few seconds, “Do you need an invitation?”

    “I heard a rumor that Charles Grant had brought you back to Springfield for a special project is all.” Alan told her as the doors closed, “The restaurant?”

    Hope shook her head yes. “Did you hear this rumor on the playground as well?” She laughed, “As a matter of fact yes Charles did invite me to Springfield and proposed a very lucrative offer.”

    “Oh what’s that?” Alan asked as the elevator climbed slowly to the top.

    “I signed on as the interior designer for the Cedars renovations.”

    “You done what?!” Was the last thing Alan remembered saying…as Lizzie waits for her arrival on the ground floor the lights suddenly flicker…off, then on again and even in the elevators they all three hear two loud claps of thunder.

    “Alan!” Hope cries out, “Alan can you hear me?”

    He immediately tried to brace himself. “Hope are you alright?”



    She shook her head as the emergency lights came on, “Oh God, Alan…don’t tell me you you’re still claustrophobic. Alan…” she raised her voice as he immediately began loosening his tie. “Oh…why me? Just when I thought it was safe…” Hope rolled her eyes and reached for the emergency phone.

    **********

    “What?” Alexandra gasped! “You bite your tongue.” She demanded, “There is no way on God’s green Earth or the Devil’s fiery hell that man is your father.”



    “Then why all of this?” Gus gestured around the church, “Alexandra was it not enough for you to lie to me all these months, put Harley in a coma…”

    “I warned her.” Alex defended, “It was her choice, coming to Bar Harbor, getting in that car…I will not be blamed for her condition and I will not apologize for being alive.”

    “You had to do it here though? In front of the entire town. Why, why? I didn’t deserve that. Matter of fact I didn’t deserve any of the hell you’ve put me through Alexandra.” Gus choked back his tears, “So tell me why you did it?”

    “Oh you where never supposed to know the truth…” Alexandra leaned against a pew, “I had…have two sons, Lujack and Nick, but when Brandon, my father found out I was pregnant he gave them away.”

    “Am I supposed to feel sorry for you?” Gus questioned, “My whole life has been turned upside and inside out…so you better cut to the chase and quickly before you lose me.”

    “Don’t say that.” Alex rushed towards him, “Please don’t ever think that I want to lose you. What I did was wrong I see that now, but I didn’t until yesterday. I knew if I went back to Brandon’s house pregnant again, I knew what would happen to you and I couldn’t go through that again. So Vera and I came up with a plan and it worked for a very long time.”

    Gus stood stone face as he listened, “I knew that Brandon and Alan would have made me give you away and that breaks my heart because I wish I had been stronger then, perhaps I would still have all three of my boys, but I wasn’t. It was not a woman’s place to question the men in her life, be it her husband or in my case her father.”



    She took his head as tears rolled down both of their cheeks, “Yes I gave you away I won’t deny or lie about it any longer. But I knew who I gave you too. Joe and Angela were two of the best people I knew, then and now. Gus you can hate me or you can love me, that is your choice to make, but what I did…giving you up for adoption I will not now, nor will I ever apologize for. I knew what my father would have done and I decided to do what I wanted to do on my terms. Remember that, my terms.”

    **********



    Phillip poured himself a drink, “It’s a just a thunderstorm.”

    “I grew on an island, every thunderstorm had the potential to turn into a hurricane.”

    “We’re pretty much inland here. I think we’ll be all right.” He scoffed.

    “I know that, but here we have to worry about flooding, tornadoes…” she paused, “it doesn’t matter just don’t sneak up on me like that. Make yourself known.”

    He tipped his glass, “Where is everyone place sounds dead?”

    “Alan and Lizzie aren’t home yet. Beth doesn’t speak to me, let alone give me a play by play of her days. And Ms. Walker took Zac and James to a movie, no doubt they’ll be there for awhile.”

    “So we’re alone?” Phillip questioned.

    “I sent the staff home earlier, so it would appear that way. Yes.”

    “Could be dangerous. Very bad things happen when you and I are alone together.”

    “They do and somehow we continue to find ourselves in situations like this. Why do you think that is Phillip?” She smiled.

    He shrugged his shoulders and knelt down to get a fire going. “Coincide maybe?”



    “Destiny.” Olivia replied, “Destiny.”

    **********

    “Really?” She snapped and tossed her head in Alan’s direction, “Where you aware there’s a thunderstorm going on outside?” Hope asked sarcastically.



    Alan rolled his eyes, “Tell him…”

    “I know.” She held her hand up, “Who you are. Listen I apologize for my uncouth temper however, I’m stuck in an elevator with not only my ex-husband who I loathe more than you could possibly imagine, but he also suffers from claustrophobia.”

    “Hope…” Alan spoke from the corner of the box. “Hope…”

    “Would you shut up?” She hissed, “No of course not you.” She told the man on the phone, “Do what?”

    “What’s he saying?”

    “Well apparently you don’t know who my ex-husband is and I’m not one who usually drops names, he’s Alan Spaulding. And he owns a majority of this entire town…so get someone to get us out of her right now!”

    Hope hung the phone up and slammed the door, “Amateurs. You know things didn’t used to be like this in Springfield.”

    Alan chuckled lightly and then started coughing, “Roger.”

    “Roger?” Hope looked up from her purse, “Are you really going to blame Roger for this?”

    “Haunting me from beyond the grave.”

    “Sit up.” Hope ordered him and wrapped her petite jacket around his chest, “Now drink this.” He done as he was told and she willed him to be calm, “Okay look at me…Alan…look at me. You’re going to be fine, before you know it we’re going to be out of here and fighting just like we were three minutes ago.”

    She smiled and it brought back memories from decades past. Hope dug around in her purse and pulled out a small sewing kit. She pulled out the scissors and cut a piece of her pant leg off.

    “What are you doing?”

    “Making a washcloth for you.” She poured water on it and began dabbing Alan’s forehead.

    “Why are you being so good to me?” Alan managed to ask.



    Hope shrugged her shoulders, “No matter how hard I try to forget,” she ran the rag down his cheek, “you’re still the father of my son.”

    **********

    She sank to the sofa as Ed stood over here. As silence fell over the room the thunder outside crashed, “If you’ve come to be my knight and shining armor, if you’ve come here tonight to pick up the piece of my fragile existence, if you want to rescue me one final time…it’s now Ed.”

    “Holly why don’t you let me give you a sleeping pill or something that will calm you down?”

    “Because I don’t want to calm down.” Her mind was racing with thoughts.

    “I think it would benefit your health if you did.” Ed advised, “Your blood pressure will no doubt have rose.”

    “I don’t care if my blood pressure skyrockets and I have a heart attack, it doesn’t matter. You came over here to my house and I want to relieve the good moments and the bad moments, I want to be close to Roger.”

    “Oh Holly.” Ed said with a hint of disgust in his voice. “I don’t understand how you can say these things, after everything he’s done to us all.”

    “You’re not supposed to understand! Just like I don’t understand how you could have fallen in bed with Lillian and broke Maureen’s heart.” Her words rang true and cut straight to the heart. They hurt Ed, but Holly didn’t care at this point. “Are you going to leave so I can mourn Roger in my own way?”

    Ed shook his head.

    “No. You don’t need to be alone, not night.”

    Holly grabbed her jacket, “You never learn do you? Ed if you want to save me then by all means do it, but I won’t be here.”

    “Holly.”

    She threw open the front and reached for her car keys on the table, “Ed.” Holly mocked him, “We’re finished. It’s over.”

    Ed stood frozen in the living room as he watched the door slam…the thunder rolled and lighting struck…Holly’s car started and his mind raced with painful memories as he raced for the door and into the stormy night.



    “HOLLY!”

    :Fade to Black:

    Next on “The Guiding Light!”
    - One woman receives a proposal.
    - Lillian and Sandra stuck together!
    - Olivia and Phillip relive their past!
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