TITLE: DAYS Fairy Tale: Eric & Greta: Chapters 16-20
WRITTEN BY: Heather Ferguson (fergus80)
EMAIL: hferguso@niu.edu
WEBSITE: http://eric_greta.tripod.com (from when Jensen was on days)
Rating: If you can watch DAYS, you can read this. If there is a rating change, a link to the chap. will be provided.
Disclaimer: Days of Our Lives and all of their characters are property of Corday Productions and NBC.
My Rant: Okay, I'm finally putting this up on FanFiction.net. Mostly to free up my website space. This was started way back in Oct. of 1999, and I haven't decided if it's finished yet or not. Reviews are always welcome!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 16
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"It's beautiful," she said looking around her surroundings. The trees all around her were strung with white Christmas lights. A table was set for two in the middle of the clearing of trees, surrounded by a clear plastic like tent or canopy thing. Greta looked up at Eric with a large smile, "Where are we?"
Eric grinned, "It's a wooded area on the outskirts of Salem, and as I promised, no one will interrupt this evening." Greta smiled wide, and then shivered slightly from the cold. Eric moved closer to her, and guided her to the transparent tent. "I had a feeling that if we could eat outside it would be to cold, so John came up with this idea." He said pointing to the tent, he then opened it, and Greta walked inside and he followed.
Greta felt instantly warmer when she got inside, and she noticed the small heater in the corner. She then looked around, the plastic was so transparent that if it wasn't for the heat, she would have thought she was still outside with the beautiful lights, trees and starlit night. "This is perfect"
"I was hoping you would like it," he said coming closer to her and then pulled out a chair for her. She sat down as he pushed in the chair. Greta watched him move over to a small CD player, and smiled as some soft music started to fill the air. He then moved back over to the table, and took the other seat across from her.
His hand indicated the bottle of champaign, and Greta nodded, "Yes, please."
"Okay, let's see if I can do this right." He said with a wink as he tried to uncork the bottle, after a bit of struggle which made Greta giggle at him, there was a large "POP" and the cork flew across the table , hit the wall of the tent, then fell to the floor, which just made her laugh harder. "I guess I need to learn how to do that a little better huh?" With that he poured each of them a glass of champaign, then holding up his glass, "Shall I make a toast?"
She smiled at him, "But of course."
Eric thought a moment, then grinned at her, "To the beautiful friendship and future we found together in Paris." The words almost brought tears to Greta's eyes, as they clinked glasses, then each to a sip.
"Mmm," she said, "Not bad at all. Where did you get it?"
"Well, it's one of the bottles I bought in Paris, when we were there." He said, taking another sip of it, savoring the taste as well.
"How many did you buy when you were there? It's not exactly cheap." she asked.
"That's my secret," he said with a wink, and she was about to ask why when he interrupted her. "Now, I hope you like what I have planned for dinner." He lifted the silver cover from the plate in front of her.
Greta looked at the plate and smiled, "Perfect. You know me to well."
"Well, I do live with you. I know you and your love of pasta and shrimp." He said indicating the fetuchinie alfrado with vegetables and shrimp.
"And what did you get for yourself?" she asked, lifting off the silver cover from his plate. Then slightly giggling when she saw the steak, potato and... "is that asparagus? You are actually eating a real vegetable?" she said in disbelief.
He laughed, "Well, I guess you are just rubbing off on me." The two started their dinner, and this time they were not interrupted through the entire meal. They talked about his job, Austin getting out of the hospital, how weird Hope had been acting, along with anything else that came to their mind. They each had a wonderful time, talking, laughing, and somehow even getting to know each other a little better than they already did.
When dinner was over, Eric got up and changed the CD, then walked back over to Greta. "May I have this dance?" he asked as the first song came on.
"Of course," Greta took his hand, and stood up. They moved away from the table, Eric pulled her close, and Great laid her head on his shoulder as they began to sway to the music.
Maybe it's intuition but some things you just don't question
Like in your eyes, I see my future in an instant
And there it goes, I think I found my best friend
I know that it might sound more than a little crazy, but I believe
Eric listened to the music as it moved over them, he nuzzled his nose into her hair smelling her perfume, and held her more firmly to him. Eric couldn't believe how lucky he was, here he was dancing with the most beautiful, kind, caring person he had ever met, his best friend.
I knew I loved you before I met you
I think I dreamed you into life
I knew I loved you before I met you
I have been waiting all my life
He smiled at the chorus, *Did I dream her into life? It almost seems that I did. I have always dreamed of a person like Greta, the woman of my dreams.* That thought made him feel wonderful, yet at the same time it scared the hell out of him. He thought he had also found the woman of his dreams when he was with Nicole, *And look how that turned out!.... But Greta is so different than Nicole. She is a completely different type of person.* He reminded himself, which put is mind at ease, mostly.
There's just no rhyme or reason, only the sense of completion
And in your eyes, I see the missing pieces I'm searching for
I think I found my way home
I know that it might sound more than a little crazy, but I believe
Greta leaned back and looked up at Eric, and he looked down into her eyes. *This is what I was missing.* He said to himself, as he leaned down slowly, and softly pressed his lips against hers.
I knew I loved you before I met you
I think I dreamed you into life
I knew I loved you before I met you
I have been waiting all my life
Greta leaned into the kiss, their lips pressing more firmly together. Her arms slowly encircled his neck, his hands moving up to her hair and face. The kiss was slowly becoming very passionate, as they took their time. Eric slowly brushing his lips against hers, his warm breath blowing across her chin. His tongue slowly darting out to lightly lick her bottom lip, making her mouth follow it to his. The kiss deepening, and becoming more demanding. Her tongue licking his top lip and then moving into his mouth, making him groan. The slow, passionate kiss continued until the next song came on, and then they slowly broke apart to look into each others eyes, desire evident. "It's a little... warm in here," *Did my voice just shake?* He asked himself, then continued, "How about we get some fresh air," *and cool down!* Greta nodded her head, and he followed her out of the tent.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 17
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Greta shivered as the cold hit her when she exited the tent, Eric took off the jacket of his tux and wrapped it around her shoulders. Greta smiled and turned towards him, "What about you?"
He smiled rubbing his arms though his shirt, "Oh, I'm fine."
Greta shook her head, "Then why are your teeth chattering?" She tried to give the jacket back to him, but her stopped her.
"Wait no, keep that on, I'll be right back." He said as he walked quickly to the Jeep, in a few minutes he was back with a blanket. Greta tilted her head in a question, and Eric smiled, "I always keep a blanket in the Jeep in the winter in case of car trouble." Greta smiled, and took his jacket off. "Oh no, keep that on, I'll use the blanket."
"Why?"
"Because.... you look cute in it" he said with a smile as he headed back to the tent.
"What are you doing... now?" Greta was wondering what he was up too.
He came back out with the bottle of Champaign, and the two glasses. He walked over to a large rock, and Greta smiled. He sat down on the rock with the blanket around his shoulders. He handed the two glasses to Greta for her to hold, as he poured the champaign into them. He then carefully set the almost empty bottle on the ground. Greta handed him his glass. He then took her hand, and directed her to sit down. She slowly sat down on his right leg, her legs between his, as he brought the blanket around the two of them. "Okay, now it's your turn to make this toast." He told her.
She smiled, and thought for a minute, "Okay... to more star filled nights spent together." Eric grinned and they clinked glasses, and took another sip of champaign. Greta then leaned back into Eric, resting the back of her head on his shoulder looking up at the stars. "So beautiful tonight," she said.
Eric looked at her, "Yes you are."
Greta looked down at him, and smiled, giving him a quick kiss, then they both looked up at the stars. They both took a few more sips of the champaign, and then Greta took the empty glasses and placed them on the ground next to the bottle. Eric then brought his arms around Greta, giving her a slight hug. Greta smiled at him, and then sighed, "I wish this night didn't have to end."
Eric grinned, "I know what you mean. But it will, we can't stay out here all night, or we'll freeze to death." They both laughed, "But, it doesn't have to end right now." He said kissing her cheek.
She smiled and looked up at the stars, she picked one, a very bright one, and made a wish. *Let there be more wonderful, magical, perfect nights like this one for me and Eric.* Just then she felt Eric's warm breath on her neck, and she shuddered.
"Are you too cold?" he asked concerned, bringing the blanket more securely around them.
"No, I'm fine," she said with a shy grin.
"Good," She went back and looked at the star she made her wish on and smiled, closing her eyes as she felt his lips on her neck by her shoulder. The feather light kisses were moving up her neck, making her tilt her head more to the side. The warmth of his breath such a contrast to that of the cold nights air. The soft warmth of his lips were, she was convinced, trying to drive her crazy. His lips continued on their journey upwards, and she let out a soft moan from her lips. Which immediately made her stiffen up, Eric stopped, "What? What's wrong?" Greta stood up and moved away from him. He stood up moving towards her worried. "I'm sorry if I..."
But she cut him off, "No, it's not your fault, at all."
He reached out and grabbed her arm, and slowly turned her to face him. He then brought out his hand and titled her face up to look at him, "Then what's wrong?" he asked quietly, "Did you not like it? Because from the sound you made..."
Greta blushed, "That's just it..."
Eric grinned, and his heart almost burst at the sweet, innocence he had before him, "Greta... you do NOT need to be embarrassed by that. Besides, I happen to like all the little sounds you make." He said with a wink and a smile.
"What?" Greta looked up at him in shock, "What other little noises do I make?"
If it wasn't for the fact that he thought Greta might get mad at him, he would have laughed at the look on her face, but instead he just smiled. "You make little sounds when you are happy, sad, angry, content, or..." he trailed off looking back to the rock, making her blush even more.
"I do not!" she protested, making a small 'hrumph' sound, which made him smile. She heard it too, and she tried to stop the small smile from forming. Which made it all the worse, when she almost caught herself about ready to make another little sound. Eric just grinned, and pulled her into a hug, she sighed into his chest, then looked up at him, "I do not," she said with a smiled on her face, still trying to deny it.
"Yes you do," he said leaning down to kiss her, eliciting a small sigh, which made her stomp her foot to the ground. Which then made them both break out into laughter.
A few minutes later, they found themselves back in the tent, dancing again. Greta looked up at Eric, "So, how do we clean up all this stuff?"
Eric grinned, "All we have to do is get the CD player, and turn off the heater and lights. John's got some people coming tomorrow morning for me to pick the stuff up." Greta smiled. "It's nice knowing someone who can get that kind of thing done like that," he said snapping his fingers. "Especially, when that person is you stepfather."
"Yeah, it does help," she said with a wink, "And the next time I see him, I will have to thank him for his help. This was absolutely perfect."
Eric looked into her eyes, "Yes it IS," he said with emphasis, "Because, I do not believe our first date is over until I drop you off at your door."
"And which door would that be? To the apartment, or my bedroom?"
Eric shook his head, "You know what I mean."
Greta smiled, "Yes I do," she said and moved up and gave a quick kiss to the tip of his nose, making him roll his eyes, and she laughed.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Another hour or so later, they made it back to the apartment. Eric unlocked the door, and then he followed Greta into the apartment. She was about to sit on the couch, when Eric took her hand. "Oh, no. The date must end properly." he said taking her to her bedroom door.
"But if I don't go there, the date won't end." She said with a wink, following him.
He smiled as they reached the door, "But if we don't end the date, we can't go on our second one. Which I thought, should be tomorrow night. Wait... tomorrow afternoon. A lunch date, and a movie. How does that sound?"
Greta smiled, "Perfect."
He then leaned in, and placed a long, sweet, kiss on her lips. "This is where I tell you, I had a wonderful time, that I'll call you, and good night."
Greta giggled, "Yeah, that's probably right."
He leaned in, and kissed her cheek. "Okay, now... how about we change, get comfortable, see what is on TV until the early hours of the morning, and then drag ourselves to bed?"
She laughed, "It sounds like the perfect ending, to a perfect night, and I really need to stop using the word perfect."
He smiled, gave her another kiss, and then they both went into their own bedrooms and changed. Greta came out in her navy silk pajamas, and Eric followed a few minutes later in a T-shirt and sweat pants. Greta got two can's of pop from the refrigerator, and a bag of chips, and headed for the couch. Eric followed, and saw the light blinking on the answering machine.
He walked over to it, and hit the play button, a very happy voice said, "Hey, Eric, it's Carrie. I have some important news for you......."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 18
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Eric, it's Carrie. I need to tell you something..." He continued to listen as she went on, "Well, I'm moving to Israel." Eric looked in shock at the answering machine and then at Greta. "I'll be up late tonight packing, so when you get this, could you come over?"
Eric turned off the answering machine, and walked to the door, he motioned Greta to come with him. She grabbed the keys, and locked the door behind them. They then walked down the hall to the next door and Eric knocked.
A few seconds later the door opened, music flowing out the door at them, and Carrie standing there in a T-shirt and jeans. "Eric," she said with a huge smiled, and gave him a big hug. "I'm so glad you got the message in time." She then ushered them into the apartment, and moved a few boxes so they could sit on the couch.
"So what is this about you moving to Israel?"
Carrie smiled, "Well, it's a long story. For one," she paused, smiled wider, "Mike is back in Salem, and he told me about this project there..." She went on to tell them everything about it, "And so no I'm leaving."
Eric shook his head, go up from the couch and gave her a big hug. "As long as you are happy , then I'm happy for you ... and you keep in touch." he said with a wink.
"Of course I will." They hugged again. Carrie paused and then looked up at him, "But there is one problem, and it will affect you."
"And what is that?" he asked quizzically.
"Well... Mike told me about some of the things that Ali has been saying about Craig and Nancy."
Eric looked confused, "Suffice it to say they don't like Mike and me all that much. And since I am leaving... I don't know how secure your job is with the hospital." she sighed, "I'm sorry. It might be okay, but you might want to find something else, to be safe."
Eric shook his head, "Carrie, don't worry about me. I can take care of myself." The three of them talked for about another hour, until Carrie shooed them out so she could continue packing.
Eric and Greta walked back into their apartment, and sat on the couch. Eric grabbed the pop sitting there, opened it, and took a sip. It was slightly warm, but her didn't care. "So, have any idea where you want to work now?" Greta asked as she munched on a chip.
"Well, I could try and get a job at some of the other magazines or newspapers in the area, or state. Only problem is, they aren't in Salem. But I'll just have to see." He looked over at Greta, "But I don't want to leave Salem."
She smiled, "Well, I can help you look."
Eric shook his head, "Nope, you have enough to do. You need to still study for the SAT, coming up soon."
Greta groaned, "Don't remind me."
Eric laughed, and turned on the TV. A couple hours later they headed to bed.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The next morning Greta stayed and studied for the SAT, after much protesting. Eric made an appointment with a job search agency in Salem in the morning, and he was getting things ready for that.
About a half hour before the appointment he walked into the kitchen, Greta looked up, smiled, "Very nice," she said.
He looked up and grinned. He was wearing a navy suit and tie. She stood up from the couch in her sweats and walked over to him. She brushed off some imaginary dust from his shoulder and straitened out his unwrinkled tie. He smiled at her, pulled her into his arms, making her smile.
"I'll meet you at Java Cafe at around noon for our date." he said with a smile, "But if I'm a little late, forgive me?" he said with a puppy dog face.
Greta giggled and shook her head, "Yes, I'll forgive you."
Eric smiled and looked at his watch. "Wish me luck."
"Good luck, but you don't need it."
He smiled again, leaned down and gave her a quick kiss. He then grabbed his stuff and left.
Greta just smiled happily and went to go sit down and, "STUDY.... Ahhhhhhhhh!"
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eric was sitting in the waiting room, waiting for his appointment. "Mr. Brady?"
Eric's head shot up, "yes?"
"Mr. Jenkins will see you now." Said the secretary.
Eric walked into the office, shook his hand and sat down. "Let's see what you have."
Eric handed him his portfolio, and Jenkins looked through them....
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Greta stood by Java Cafe, she couldn't get a table because it was so busy. She looked down at her watch, it was five after noon. "I just hope the interview is going okay," she said quietly.
"Greta!" she turned around at the familiar voice, she smiled as Eric ran up to her, "Sorry I'm late."
"Don't worry about it."
Eric looked at the busy cafe, "How about we go to the Pub, get some take out, and then go to the park?"
"Great idea," she replied. They went to the Pub and got their take out. Greta got a chicken sandwich, cole slaw, and a pickle. Eric took a Club sandwich and fries. They then headed for the park. Eric got out his blanket form the Jeep and laid it on the Grass. Greta laid out the food and drinks, while Eric took off his suit coat, and exchanged it for his leather one. Greta just smiled. "More comfortable?"
"Oh, yes." he said as he sat down. They opened up the containers, and Eric took a bite of his sandwich.
"So, how did the interview go?"
"It went okay." He took another bite, as she ate her cole slaw. "He said I had a lot of talent."
"That's great." she said and then took a bite of her sandwich, Eric took a few fries and devoured them, then took a drink of soda.
"However, I have another appointment on monday with him."
Greta looked up questioning as she took another bite, "Why?" she finally got out.
"Well, he said that the companies that were looking for photographers, were looking for certain types of photo's." He ate a few more fries.
Greta took a bite of her pickle, then asked, "And?"
Eric finished his fries and answered, "Well, I have examples of many of the types. And he says they are all very good. But I don't have one, that he says is very important." He ate the last bit of his sandwich, and then took a drink.
Greta finished her pickle, and looked at him expectantly, when he didn't finish, she took a drink of pop and then asked, "That is?"
Eric sighed, "Sexy pictures, as in lingerie."
Greta almost choked on her pop. "You don't?" she asked quietly.
"Nope, 'Bella' never really did lingerie ads. Underwear, sure. But not very sexy." Eric drank the last of his soda. "And, Mr. Jenkins wants me to bring in some of these photo's on monday. But I have no idea how to do that."
"I do." came a voice from behind Eric....
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 19
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
They both looked up at the intruder in there conversation. "Nicole? What do you want?" asked an irritated Eric.
Nicole acted insulted, "I'm just trying to help. I overheard what you said. You need sexy pictures to get a job right?"
"Well, yeah."
"Well, you can use Titan for the shoot, and I can arrange a model for you." Nicole said smiling.
Eric and Greta stood up. "What's in it for you Nicole?"
"I feel bad for what I did to you, and I'm trying to make up for it. Okay?"
"I don't know." Eric said torn, and looked at Greta.
Greta looked up at him, "You need the pictures Eric." she said.
He smiled at her, he knew it was difficult for her. "Okay, Nicole. You set up the time, and get the model, and WE'LL meet you there." Greta smiled when Eric told Nicole that they would both be there.
"Great, I can get the studio in about an hour. I'll see you both there." She turned around with a smile on her face. Eric and Greta sat back down, finished their lunch. Eric thanked her for understanding. They then cleaned up their stuff, and then went back to Salem Place.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
An hour later they showed up at Titian and walked into the photo lab. Everything was set up and ready for his use. Eric explained to Greta what everything was as they waited.
A few minutes later, Nicole walked into the room. "Well, ready to get the show on the road?" she asked.
"Sure, where's the model?" Eric asked.
Nicole acted apologetic, "I couldn't find one, that could do it this last minute. But, since you need one so bad, I could do it."
Greta looked at her, her eyes big, in shock. *No, no no no* she kept saying to her self.
Eric looked at Nicole in surprise, then anger, "Yeah sure Nicole, you didn't even try to look did you, you had it planned all along."
Nicole tried to look hurt, "No, that's not true. I did try. Really. There just isn't a model that we have right now that isn't busy, or that can do it." Eric turned to leave, grabbing Greta's arm to go. "Eric, if you can find another model, by all means go ahead, you can use the lab, and I'll leave."
Eric turned around, he looked at her, and for a minute he thought she was being honest.
"Eric, really, I couldn't find anyone, that's why I was a little late. I could try and reschedule one, but they probably won't want to do it till monday."
"I need them by monday." he said quietly.
Nicole grinned to herself, *Got him.* "Now, Eric, I can pose for you." She looked over at Greta, "Greta can stay too." *Not for long she won't* she told herself.
Eric sighed, "Nicole, can you leave us alone for a minute."
"Sure," she said and left the room.
Eric wanted to scream, he did not want to take anymore pictures of Nicole, he would love to never have to see her again. But he also really needed the pictures so that he could get a job.
Greta saw the trouble that Eric was going through, and walked over to him, and grabbed his hand, and looked up in his eyes.
Eric shook his head, "I can't do this, to you or to me."
Greta took her hand and made Eric look at her, "Eric you need the pictures."
"Not enough to make both of us, especially you, uncomfortable."
Greta smiled, she could see how much it was tearing him up inside, "But, I'll be here."
"Are you saying you think I should do it?"
"What choice do you have?"
He sighed, and tried to think of something, "I could try and go find another model to do it, or someone. I could ask Hope or Sami even," he then laughed, "However that would be really really weird." He shook his head trying to get the images out of it, the last thing he wanted to think of was his twin sister in lingerie, it was like thinking that about your mother.
Greta laughed, gave him a quick hug, and then said, "Eric you need them, and... I trust you."
Eric smiled, "If there was any other way, you know I would do it."
"I know," she said quietly.
He leaned down, and kissed her softly, but was interrupted by the knock on the door.
"Come in," Eric said.
Nicole walked into the room, "So do you have a decision?"
Eric looked at Greta, and then back at Nicole, "Yeah."
Nicole smiled, "So what will it be? Will I pose for you, or will you try and go get yourself another model?"
Greta's mind was screaming at her, she did not like this at all. *But there is nothing else he can do! He really needs these pictures. Besides you can stay and watch.* But she knew she couldn't, she knew she wouldn't be able to stomach the site. *You have to do something!* He mind screamed at her, *What?* She didn't know, but her mind, heart, and soul continued to scream at her to do *Something!*
Greta spoke up, "I'm going to do it." Eric and Nicole looked over at her in unbelievable shock.....
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 20
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nicole looked at Greta in disbelief, "You what?" she said.
"I'm going to model for the pictures." Greta said defiantly to Nicole.
Eric just stood there in shock with his mouth wide open, starring at Greta. *No, she didn't just say what I thought she said.* His mind was not able to compute it, it was just so, so... *Unlike her.*
Nicole looked over at Eric, "So, you agreed to this? Using Greta for pictures, someone who has never modeled before?"
Eric shook his head, and then looked at Nicole, his mind still clouded with confusion. When he got his voice back her answered, "Yes...." He quickly looked over at Greta, and then back to Nicole, "We agreed."
Nicole was turning red, *This is NOT turning out right at all! It completely backfired! I would never have thought that.... sweet, innocent Greta would do... THIS!*
Eric looked at Nicole, "That is okay, right Nicole? You said I could use the lab for my shoot, I just needed to find a model."
"Yes, I did." She fumed, "Well, then I'll leave you to get to work." and with that she was out the door in a huff.
Eric shook his head at her, as she left. *Well, you were up to something afterall.* He then turned to Greta, she was turned away from him. He walked up behind her, and leaned his head over her shoulder to whisper in her ear. "If you were that uncomfortable with her taking the pictures you could have told me. Come on, let's go find a model so I can get these pictures taken."
Greta spun around and looked at him, "What?"
"You just said that to get rid of her right?"
Greta looked down, *Maybe he doesn't want me to be the model,* but answered truthfully, "No."
Eric was back in his shock mode, he thought before after the shock wore off that she was just saying it, but *I guess I was wrong.* He walked up to her, and tilted her chin to look up at him, "Greta.... You do NOT have to do this." He couldn't deny that he was hoping that she would, he just didn't know how much he could control himself.
"Eric you need the pictures."
"I can get someone else to do them." He said simply. He looked at her, she looked so innocent, and he thought that it would almost be like taking advantage of her.
"Who?" she asked, "I am much more comfortable doing this, than having her do it. Unless..."
Eric looked into her eyes, "Unless what?"
She turned slightly away, "Unless you don't want me too, if you don't think I'm model material."
Eric closed her eyes, and turned her quickly to look at him, and he kissed her, hard, surprising her, "Greta, THAT has NOTHING to do with it. Greta... you are so much more beautiful than any model in this building." She blushed at his compliment. "I'm just worried, Greta, you are just so...."
Greta shook her head, "If you say innocent I'm going to hit you."
Eric smiled, at her playful nature, *At least she feels a little better.* "Well, yeah... AND, I mean... we are just starting to go out... I mean... this is not a regular photo shoot, how comfortable are you going to be in lingerie in front of me?"
She giggled, "Well, maybe we'll find out." Eric sighed, she continued, "What? I mean it's not that different than a swim suit right? Just different materials." She said trying to convince herself more than him.
He just smiled, and shook his head. *It is nothing like it at all,* he told himself, and knew she knew that too.
"Eric, I want to. You need these pictures, and I want to help you. Besides... I've kinda always wanted to be a model as a little girl."
Eric grinned, "But somehow I doubt you wanted it to be in sexy lingerie."
She giggled, "Well, true. But I can handle it, if you can." She said with a challenge in her voice.
"Okay, we'll do it," He swallowed hard, knowing exactly how difficult this shoot was going to be for both of them. He took a deep breath, "I'll set up while you get dressed, okay?"
Greta nodded, then motioned around the room, "Uh, where?"
Eric smiled, "Right, you don't know. Here, follow me." He walked into the side room of the lab. There were racks, and racks of clothes. He got to one rack, and showed her a bunch of lingerie, "Ummm, I'll just let you pick out whatever you want."
"I thought 'Bella' didn't do lingerie shots." She said looking at the rack of clothes.
Eric responded, "Well, we don't do shots of just lingerie. For some articles in the magazine we photograph a guy and girl together, and the girl wears it, but I have never done those shots." He tried to explain. "It's for the..."
"Sex info. articles." She responded, "And quizzes and stuff, right?" Eric nodded, "I do read 'Bella' sometimes." She admitted.
He smiled, "Okay, I'll leave you to get ready, and I'll go set up the lighting." He gave her a quick kiss on the cheek, and headed out of the room.
Eric walked into the lab, and started to set up the lights where he wanted them. He still couldn't believe he was going to take these types of pictures of *Greta!* He was still in shock. He went over to the door, and locked it, he didn't want just anyone coming into the lab, he knew it was uncomfortable enough for her to do this in front of him. He sighed, and shook his head to get some rather interesting images out of it. *Stop it Brady, you need to be a photographer right now, and not a hormone crazed pig.* He went back to setting up the lights and cameras.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Greta looked through the garments on the rack in front of her, she went to her size, and started looking, some she would take out, and immediately start laughing. Honestly she couldn't believe that she was doing it either. But she knew she had too. She started looking again. *Silk, Satin, Lace, Feathers, Leather, and even Mesh. Geez! And in every color of the rainbow.* She shook her head, and kept looking. After a little while, she finally found something that didn't make her laugh, make her feel ridiculous, or question how to even put it on. She hung in on the hook, and then turned towards the make-up mirror. She brushed out her hair, turned on the curling iron, and picked out her make-up. Her hands were shaking a little, which made putting the eyeliner on difficult, but she did it. When her make-up was done, she got undressed, and then put on the garment she picked out. She then took the light blue robe from behind the door and put it on. She then took a deep breath, "Here goes nothing," she said to herself and left the room.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eric made the last few adjustments of the camera, when he heard the sound of heels on cement. He straightened up, *This is it,* and he slowly turned around. The ankle length, silk, blue robe, hid from view what she was wearing, but he could still see the high heals underneath, and his breath caught in his throat. He looked up at her face, her hair was down, slightly curled, yet a little wild, perfect for the shoot. Her make-up was done, she wore more than he had seen on her, but under the lights it was just right. He walked over to her, "Perfect job on the make-up and hair, you look beautiful."
She smiled, "Thank you, I did do some stage acting remember? I know the effect of lighting."
He grinned, "That's right.... Well, I'm done setting up." He walked over to the area he was going to take the pictures. In the center was a piece of furniture that sort of looked like a bed, with many pillows, and wrinkled white sheets. The back drop was a deep burgundy red, and the lighting was muted, with soft light. "Just sit down, and get comfortable, and I'll check the lighting."
Greta walked over and set on the 'bed' crossing her legs, then she yelled at herself, *This is going to be a sexy shoot remember, stop being so prim and proper.* With that, she leaned back against one of the pillows, and curled up on her side, waiting.
Eric looked through the camera, *Oh, boy.* Was all her could think. He knew that these pictures were going to be more beautiful than any he had taken of Nicole. He stopped looking through the camera, and spoke up, "Okay, I'm ready here."
She looked up at him, "Oh... okay." And she stood up, and started to untie the robe.
Eric grabbed her hand before she could untie it, "Are you absolutely sure about this?"
Greta looked up into his eyes, and she knew, "Yes" She knew that it was okay, she knew it deep in her heart. She knew she would do anything for him. But she also knew, that there was no going back after this, so she might as well have fun with it. A slow, seductive smiled spread across her face, and Eric knew he was in trouble. Her fingers untied the silk robe slowly, as Eric watched, and she then let it drop to the floor.....
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To Be Continued
WRITTEN BY: Heather Ferguson (fergus80)
EMAIL: hferguso@niu.edu
WEBSITE: http://eric_greta.tripod.com (from when Jensen was on days)
Rating: If you can watch DAYS, you can read this. If there is a rating change, a link to the chap. will be provided.
Disclaimer: Days of Our Lives and all of their characters are property of Corday Productions and NBC.
My Rant: Okay, I'm finally putting this up on FanFiction.net. Mostly to free up my website space. This was started way back in Oct. of 1999, and I haven't decided if it's finished yet or not. Reviews are always welcome!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 16
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"It's beautiful," she said looking around her surroundings. The trees all around her were strung with white Christmas lights. A table was set for two in the middle of the clearing of trees, surrounded by a clear plastic like tent or canopy thing. Greta looked up at Eric with a large smile, "Where are we?"
Eric grinned, "It's a wooded area on the outskirts of Salem, and as I promised, no one will interrupt this evening." Greta smiled wide, and then shivered slightly from the cold. Eric moved closer to her, and guided her to the transparent tent. "I had a feeling that if we could eat outside it would be to cold, so John came up with this idea." He said pointing to the tent, he then opened it, and Greta walked inside and he followed.
Greta felt instantly warmer when she got inside, and she noticed the small heater in the corner. She then looked around, the plastic was so transparent that if it wasn't for the heat, she would have thought she was still outside with the beautiful lights, trees and starlit night. "This is perfect"
"I was hoping you would like it," he said coming closer to her and then pulled out a chair for her. She sat down as he pushed in the chair. Greta watched him move over to a small CD player, and smiled as some soft music started to fill the air. He then moved back over to the table, and took the other seat across from her.
His hand indicated the bottle of champaign, and Greta nodded, "Yes, please."
"Okay, let's see if I can do this right." He said with a wink as he tried to uncork the bottle, after a bit of struggle which made Greta giggle at him, there was a large "POP" and the cork flew across the table , hit the wall of the tent, then fell to the floor, which just made her laugh harder. "I guess I need to learn how to do that a little better huh?" With that he poured each of them a glass of champaign, then holding up his glass, "Shall I make a toast?"
She smiled at him, "But of course."
Eric thought a moment, then grinned at her, "To the beautiful friendship and future we found together in Paris." The words almost brought tears to Greta's eyes, as they clinked glasses, then each to a sip.
"Mmm," she said, "Not bad at all. Where did you get it?"
"Well, it's one of the bottles I bought in Paris, when we were there." He said, taking another sip of it, savoring the taste as well.
"How many did you buy when you were there? It's not exactly cheap." she asked.
"That's my secret," he said with a wink, and she was about to ask why when he interrupted her. "Now, I hope you like what I have planned for dinner." He lifted the silver cover from the plate in front of her.
Greta looked at the plate and smiled, "Perfect. You know me to well."
"Well, I do live with you. I know you and your love of pasta and shrimp." He said indicating the fetuchinie alfrado with vegetables and shrimp.
"And what did you get for yourself?" she asked, lifting off the silver cover from his plate. Then slightly giggling when she saw the steak, potato and... "is that asparagus? You are actually eating a real vegetable?" she said in disbelief.
He laughed, "Well, I guess you are just rubbing off on me." The two started their dinner, and this time they were not interrupted through the entire meal. They talked about his job, Austin getting out of the hospital, how weird Hope had been acting, along with anything else that came to their mind. They each had a wonderful time, talking, laughing, and somehow even getting to know each other a little better than they already did.
When dinner was over, Eric got up and changed the CD, then walked back over to Greta. "May I have this dance?" he asked as the first song came on.
"Of course," Greta took his hand, and stood up. They moved away from the table, Eric pulled her close, and Great laid her head on his shoulder as they began to sway to the music.
Maybe it's intuition but some things you just don't question
Like in your eyes, I see my future in an instant
And there it goes, I think I found my best friend
I know that it might sound more than a little crazy, but I believe
Eric listened to the music as it moved over them, he nuzzled his nose into her hair smelling her perfume, and held her more firmly to him. Eric couldn't believe how lucky he was, here he was dancing with the most beautiful, kind, caring person he had ever met, his best friend.
I knew I loved you before I met you
I think I dreamed you into life
I knew I loved you before I met you
I have been waiting all my life
He smiled at the chorus, *Did I dream her into life? It almost seems that I did. I have always dreamed of a person like Greta, the woman of my dreams.* That thought made him feel wonderful, yet at the same time it scared the hell out of him. He thought he had also found the woman of his dreams when he was with Nicole, *And look how that turned out!.... But Greta is so different than Nicole. She is a completely different type of person.* He reminded himself, which put is mind at ease, mostly.
There's just no rhyme or reason, only the sense of completion
And in your eyes, I see the missing pieces I'm searching for
I think I found my way home
I know that it might sound more than a little crazy, but I believe
Greta leaned back and looked up at Eric, and he looked down into her eyes. *This is what I was missing.* He said to himself, as he leaned down slowly, and softly pressed his lips against hers.
I knew I loved you before I met you
I think I dreamed you into life
I knew I loved you before I met you
I have been waiting all my life
Greta leaned into the kiss, their lips pressing more firmly together. Her arms slowly encircled his neck, his hands moving up to her hair and face. The kiss was slowly becoming very passionate, as they took their time. Eric slowly brushing his lips against hers, his warm breath blowing across her chin. His tongue slowly darting out to lightly lick her bottom lip, making her mouth follow it to his. The kiss deepening, and becoming more demanding. Her tongue licking his top lip and then moving into his mouth, making him groan. The slow, passionate kiss continued until the next song came on, and then they slowly broke apart to look into each others eyes, desire evident. "It's a little... warm in here," *Did my voice just shake?* He asked himself, then continued, "How about we get some fresh air," *and cool down!* Greta nodded her head, and he followed her out of the tent.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 17
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Greta shivered as the cold hit her when she exited the tent, Eric took off the jacket of his tux and wrapped it around her shoulders. Greta smiled and turned towards him, "What about you?"
He smiled rubbing his arms though his shirt, "Oh, I'm fine."
Greta shook her head, "Then why are your teeth chattering?" She tried to give the jacket back to him, but her stopped her.
"Wait no, keep that on, I'll be right back." He said as he walked quickly to the Jeep, in a few minutes he was back with a blanket. Greta tilted her head in a question, and Eric smiled, "I always keep a blanket in the Jeep in the winter in case of car trouble." Greta smiled, and took his jacket off. "Oh no, keep that on, I'll use the blanket."
"Why?"
"Because.... you look cute in it" he said with a smile as he headed back to the tent.
"What are you doing... now?" Greta was wondering what he was up too.
He came back out with the bottle of Champaign, and the two glasses. He walked over to a large rock, and Greta smiled. He sat down on the rock with the blanket around his shoulders. He handed the two glasses to Greta for her to hold, as he poured the champaign into them. He then carefully set the almost empty bottle on the ground. Greta handed him his glass. He then took her hand, and directed her to sit down. She slowly sat down on his right leg, her legs between his, as he brought the blanket around the two of them. "Okay, now it's your turn to make this toast." He told her.
She smiled, and thought for a minute, "Okay... to more star filled nights spent together." Eric grinned and they clinked glasses, and took another sip of champaign. Greta then leaned back into Eric, resting the back of her head on his shoulder looking up at the stars. "So beautiful tonight," she said.
Eric looked at her, "Yes you are."
Greta looked down at him, and smiled, giving him a quick kiss, then they both looked up at the stars. They both took a few more sips of the champaign, and then Greta took the empty glasses and placed them on the ground next to the bottle. Eric then brought his arms around Greta, giving her a slight hug. Greta smiled at him, and then sighed, "I wish this night didn't have to end."
Eric grinned, "I know what you mean. But it will, we can't stay out here all night, or we'll freeze to death." They both laughed, "But, it doesn't have to end right now." He said kissing her cheek.
She smiled and looked up at the stars, she picked one, a very bright one, and made a wish. *Let there be more wonderful, magical, perfect nights like this one for me and Eric.* Just then she felt Eric's warm breath on her neck, and she shuddered.
"Are you too cold?" he asked concerned, bringing the blanket more securely around them.
"No, I'm fine," she said with a shy grin.
"Good," She went back and looked at the star she made her wish on and smiled, closing her eyes as she felt his lips on her neck by her shoulder. The feather light kisses were moving up her neck, making her tilt her head more to the side. The warmth of his breath such a contrast to that of the cold nights air. The soft warmth of his lips were, she was convinced, trying to drive her crazy. His lips continued on their journey upwards, and she let out a soft moan from her lips. Which immediately made her stiffen up, Eric stopped, "What? What's wrong?" Greta stood up and moved away from him. He stood up moving towards her worried. "I'm sorry if I..."
But she cut him off, "No, it's not your fault, at all."
He reached out and grabbed her arm, and slowly turned her to face him. He then brought out his hand and titled her face up to look at him, "Then what's wrong?" he asked quietly, "Did you not like it? Because from the sound you made..."
Greta blushed, "That's just it..."
Eric grinned, and his heart almost burst at the sweet, innocence he had before him, "Greta... you do NOT need to be embarrassed by that. Besides, I happen to like all the little sounds you make." He said with a wink and a smile.
"What?" Greta looked up at him in shock, "What other little noises do I make?"
If it wasn't for the fact that he thought Greta might get mad at him, he would have laughed at the look on her face, but instead he just smiled. "You make little sounds when you are happy, sad, angry, content, or..." he trailed off looking back to the rock, making her blush even more.
"I do not!" she protested, making a small 'hrumph' sound, which made him smile. She heard it too, and she tried to stop the small smile from forming. Which made it all the worse, when she almost caught herself about ready to make another little sound. Eric just grinned, and pulled her into a hug, she sighed into his chest, then looked up at him, "I do not," she said with a smiled on her face, still trying to deny it.
"Yes you do," he said leaning down to kiss her, eliciting a small sigh, which made her stomp her foot to the ground. Which then made them both break out into laughter.
A few minutes later, they found themselves back in the tent, dancing again. Greta looked up at Eric, "So, how do we clean up all this stuff?"
Eric grinned, "All we have to do is get the CD player, and turn off the heater and lights. John's got some people coming tomorrow morning for me to pick the stuff up." Greta smiled. "It's nice knowing someone who can get that kind of thing done like that," he said snapping his fingers. "Especially, when that person is you stepfather."
"Yeah, it does help," she said with a wink, "And the next time I see him, I will have to thank him for his help. This was absolutely perfect."
Eric looked into her eyes, "Yes it IS," he said with emphasis, "Because, I do not believe our first date is over until I drop you off at your door."
"And which door would that be? To the apartment, or my bedroom?"
Eric shook his head, "You know what I mean."
Greta smiled, "Yes I do," she said and moved up and gave a quick kiss to the tip of his nose, making him roll his eyes, and she laughed.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Another hour or so later, they made it back to the apartment. Eric unlocked the door, and then he followed Greta into the apartment. She was about to sit on the couch, when Eric took her hand. "Oh, no. The date must end properly." he said taking her to her bedroom door.
"But if I don't go there, the date won't end." She said with a wink, following him.
He smiled as they reached the door, "But if we don't end the date, we can't go on our second one. Which I thought, should be tomorrow night. Wait... tomorrow afternoon. A lunch date, and a movie. How does that sound?"
Greta smiled, "Perfect."
He then leaned in, and placed a long, sweet, kiss on her lips. "This is where I tell you, I had a wonderful time, that I'll call you, and good night."
Greta giggled, "Yeah, that's probably right."
He leaned in, and kissed her cheek. "Okay, now... how about we change, get comfortable, see what is on TV until the early hours of the morning, and then drag ourselves to bed?"
She laughed, "It sounds like the perfect ending, to a perfect night, and I really need to stop using the word perfect."
He smiled, gave her another kiss, and then they both went into their own bedrooms and changed. Greta came out in her navy silk pajamas, and Eric followed a few minutes later in a T-shirt and sweat pants. Greta got two can's of pop from the refrigerator, and a bag of chips, and headed for the couch. Eric followed, and saw the light blinking on the answering machine.
He walked over to it, and hit the play button, a very happy voice said, "Hey, Eric, it's Carrie. I have some important news for you......."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 18
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Eric, it's Carrie. I need to tell you something..." He continued to listen as she went on, "Well, I'm moving to Israel." Eric looked in shock at the answering machine and then at Greta. "I'll be up late tonight packing, so when you get this, could you come over?"
Eric turned off the answering machine, and walked to the door, he motioned Greta to come with him. She grabbed the keys, and locked the door behind them. They then walked down the hall to the next door and Eric knocked.
A few seconds later the door opened, music flowing out the door at them, and Carrie standing there in a T-shirt and jeans. "Eric," she said with a huge smiled, and gave him a big hug. "I'm so glad you got the message in time." She then ushered them into the apartment, and moved a few boxes so they could sit on the couch.
"So what is this about you moving to Israel?"
Carrie smiled, "Well, it's a long story. For one," she paused, smiled wider, "Mike is back in Salem, and he told me about this project there..." She went on to tell them everything about it, "And so no I'm leaving."
Eric shook his head, go up from the couch and gave her a big hug. "As long as you are happy , then I'm happy for you ... and you keep in touch." he said with a wink.
"Of course I will." They hugged again. Carrie paused and then looked up at him, "But there is one problem, and it will affect you."
"And what is that?" he asked quizzically.
"Well... Mike told me about some of the things that Ali has been saying about Craig and Nancy."
Eric looked confused, "Suffice it to say they don't like Mike and me all that much. And since I am leaving... I don't know how secure your job is with the hospital." she sighed, "I'm sorry. It might be okay, but you might want to find something else, to be safe."
Eric shook his head, "Carrie, don't worry about me. I can take care of myself." The three of them talked for about another hour, until Carrie shooed them out so she could continue packing.
Eric and Greta walked back into their apartment, and sat on the couch. Eric grabbed the pop sitting there, opened it, and took a sip. It was slightly warm, but her didn't care. "So, have any idea where you want to work now?" Greta asked as she munched on a chip.
"Well, I could try and get a job at some of the other magazines or newspapers in the area, or state. Only problem is, they aren't in Salem. But I'll just have to see." He looked over at Greta, "But I don't want to leave Salem."
She smiled, "Well, I can help you look."
Eric shook his head, "Nope, you have enough to do. You need to still study for the SAT, coming up soon."
Greta groaned, "Don't remind me."
Eric laughed, and turned on the TV. A couple hours later they headed to bed.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The next morning Greta stayed and studied for the SAT, after much protesting. Eric made an appointment with a job search agency in Salem in the morning, and he was getting things ready for that.
About a half hour before the appointment he walked into the kitchen, Greta looked up, smiled, "Very nice," she said.
He looked up and grinned. He was wearing a navy suit and tie. She stood up from the couch in her sweats and walked over to him. She brushed off some imaginary dust from his shoulder and straitened out his unwrinkled tie. He smiled at her, pulled her into his arms, making her smile.
"I'll meet you at Java Cafe at around noon for our date." he said with a smile, "But if I'm a little late, forgive me?" he said with a puppy dog face.
Greta giggled and shook her head, "Yes, I'll forgive you."
Eric smiled and looked at his watch. "Wish me luck."
"Good luck, but you don't need it."
He smiled again, leaned down and gave her a quick kiss. He then grabbed his stuff and left.
Greta just smiled happily and went to go sit down and, "STUDY.... Ahhhhhhhhh!"
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eric was sitting in the waiting room, waiting for his appointment. "Mr. Brady?"
Eric's head shot up, "yes?"
"Mr. Jenkins will see you now." Said the secretary.
Eric walked into the office, shook his hand and sat down. "Let's see what you have."
Eric handed him his portfolio, and Jenkins looked through them....
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Greta stood by Java Cafe, she couldn't get a table because it was so busy. She looked down at her watch, it was five after noon. "I just hope the interview is going okay," she said quietly.
"Greta!" she turned around at the familiar voice, she smiled as Eric ran up to her, "Sorry I'm late."
"Don't worry about it."
Eric looked at the busy cafe, "How about we go to the Pub, get some take out, and then go to the park?"
"Great idea," she replied. They went to the Pub and got their take out. Greta got a chicken sandwich, cole slaw, and a pickle. Eric took a Club sandwich and fries. They then headed for the park. Eric got out his blanket form the Jeep and laid it on the Grass. Greta laid out the food and drinks, while Eric took off his suit coat, and exchanged it for his leather one. Greta just smiled. "More comfortable?"
"Oh, yes." he said as he sat down. They opened up the containers, and Eric took a bite of his sandwich.
"So, how did the interview go?"
"It went okay." He took another bite, as she ate her cole slaw. "He said I had a lot of talent."
"That's great." she said and then took a bite of her sandwich, Eric took a few fries and devoured them, then took a drink of soda.
"However, I have another appointment on monday with him."
Greta looked up questioning as she took another bite, "Why?" she finally got out.
"Well, he said that the companies that were looking for photographers, were looking for certain types of photo's." He ate a few more fries.
Greta took a bite of her pickle, then asked, "And?"
Eric finished his fries and answered, "Well, I have examples of many of the types. And he says they are all very good. But I don't have one, that he says is very important." He ate the last bit of his sandwich, and then took a drink.
Greta finished her pickle, and looked at him expectantly, when he didn't finish, she took a drink of pop and then asked, "That is?"
Eric sighed, "Sexy pictures, as in lingerie."
Greta almost choked on her pop. "You don't?" she asked quietly.
"Nope, 'Bella' never really did lingerie ads. Underwear, sure. But not very sexy." Eric drank the last of his soda. "And, Mr. Jenkins wants me to bring in some of these photo's on monday. But I have no idea how to do that."
"I do." came a voice from behind Eric....
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 19
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
They both looked up at the intruder in there conversation. "Nicole? What do you want?" asked an irritated Eric.
Nicole acted insulted, "I'm just trying to help. I overheard what you said. You need sexy pictures to get a job right?"
"Well, yeah."
"Well, you can use Titan for the shoot, and I can arrange a model for you." Nicole said smiling.
Eric and Greta stood up. "What's in it for you Nicole?"
"I feel bad for what I did to you, and I'm trying to make up for it. Okay?"
"I don't know." Eric said torn, and looked at Greta.
Greta looked up at him, "You need the pictures Eric." she said.
He smiled at her, he knew it was difficult for her. "Okay, Nicole. You set up the time, and get the model, and WE'LL meet you there." Greta smiled when Eric told Nicole that they would both be there.
"Great, I can get the studio in about an hour. I'll see you both there." She turned around with a smile on her face. Eric and Greta sat back down, finished their lunch. Eric thanked her for understanding. They then cleaned up their stuff, and then went back to Salem Place.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
An hour later they showed up at Titian and walked into the photo lab. Everything was set up and ready for his use. Eric explained to Greta what everything was as they waited.
A few minutes later, Nicole walked into the room. "Well, ready to get the show on the road?" she asked.
"Sure, where's the model?" Eric asked.
Nicole acted apologetic, "I couldn't find one, that could do it this last minute. But, since you need one so bad, I could do it."
Greta looked at her, her eyes big, in shock. *No, no no no* she kept saying to her self.
Eric looked at Nicole in surprise, then anger, "Yeah sure Nicole, you didn't even try to look did you, you had it planned all along."
Nicole tried to look hurt, "No, that's not true. I did try. Really. There just isn't a model that we have right now that isn't busy, or that can do it." Eric turned to leave, grabbing Greta's arm to go. "Eric, if you can find another model, by all means go ahead, you can use the lab, and I'll leave."
Eric turned around, he looked at her, and for a minute he thought she was being honest.
"Eric, really, I couldn't find anyone, that's why I was a little late. I could try and reschedule one, but they probably won't want to do it till monday."
"I need them by monday." he said quietly.
Nicole grinned to herself, *Got him.* "Now, Eric, I can pose for you." She looked over at Greta, "Greta can stay too." *Not for long she won't* she told herself.
Eric sighed, "Nicole, can you leave us alone for a minute."
"Sure," she said and left the room.
Eric wanted to scream, he did not want to take anymore pictures of Nicole, he would love to never have to see her again. But he also really needed the pictures so that he could get a job.
Greta saw the trouble that Eric was going through, and walked over to him, and grabbed his hand, and looked up in his eyes.
Eric shook his head, "I can't do this, to you or to me."
Greta took her hand and made Eric look at her, "Eric you need the pictures."
"Not enough to make both of us, especially you, uncomfortable."
Greta smiled, she could see how much it was tearing him up inside, "But, I'll be here."
"Are you saying you think I should do it?"
"What choice do you have?"
He sighed, and tried to think of something, "I could try and go find another model to do it, or someone. I could ask Hope or Sami even," he then laughed, "However that would be really really weird." He shook his head trying to get the images out of it, the last thing he wanted to think of was his twin sister in lingerie, it was like thinking that about your mother.
Greta laughed, gave him a quick hug, and then said, "Eric you need them, and... I trust you."
Eric smiled, "If there was any other way, you know I would do it."
"I know," she said quietly.
He leaned down, and kissed her softly, but was interrupted by the knock on the door.
"Come in," Eric said.
Nicole walked into the room, "So do you have a decision?"
Eric looked at Greta, and then back at Nicole, "Yeah."
Nicole smiled, "So what will it be? Will I pose for you, or will you try and go get yourself another model?"
Greta's mind was screaming at her, she did not like this at all. *But there is nothing else he can do! He really needs these pictures. Besides you can stay and watch.* But she knew she couldn't, she knew she wouldn't be able to stomach the site. *You have to do something!* He mind screamed at her, *What?* She didn't know, but her mind, heart, and soul continued to scream at her to do *Something!*
Greta spoke up, "I'm going to do it." Eric and Nicole looked over at her in unbelievable shock.....
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 20
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nicole looked at Greta in disbelief, "You what?" she said.
"I'm going to model for the pictures." Greta said defiantly to Nicole.
Eric just stood there in shock with his mouth wide open, starring at Greta. *No, she didn't just say what I thought she said.* His mind was not able to compute it, it was just so, so... *Unlike her.*
Nicole looked over at Eric, "So, you agreed to this? Using Greta for pictures, someone who has never modeled before?"
Eric shook his head, and then looked at Nicole, his mind still clouded with confusion. When he got his voice back her answered, "Yes...." He quickly looked over at Greta, and then back to Nicole, "We agreed."
Nicole was turning red, *This is NOT turning out right at all! It completely backfired! I would never have thought that.... sweet, innocent Greta would do... THIS!*
Eric looked at Nicole, "That is okay, right Nicole? You said I could use the lab for my shoot, I just needed to find a model."
"Yes, I did." She fumed, "Well, then I'll leave you to get to work." and with that she was out the door in a huff.
Eric shook his head at her, as she left. *Well, you were up to something afterall.* He then turned to Greta, she was turned away from him. He walked up behind her, and leaned his head over her shoulder to whisper in her ear. "If you were that uncomfortable with her taking the pictures you could have told me. Come on, let's go find a model so I can get these pictures taken."
Greta spun around and looked at him, "What?"
"You just said that to get rid of her right?"
Greta looked down, *Maybe he doesn't want me to be the model,* but answered truthfully, "No."
Eric was back in his shock mode, he thought before after the shock wore off that she was just saying it, but *I guess I was wrong.* He walked up to her, and tilted her chin to look up at him, "Greta.... You do NOT have to do this." He couldn't deny that he was hoping that she would, he just didn't know how much he could control himself.
"Eric you need the pictures."
"I can get someone else to do them." He said simply. He looked at her, she looked so innocent, and he thought that it would almost be like taking advantage of her.
"Who?" she asked, "I am much more comfortable doing this, than having her do it. Unless..."
Eric looked into her eyes, "Unless what?"
She turned slightly away, "Unless you don't want me too, if you don't think I'm model material."
Eric closed her eyes, and turned her quickly to look at him, and he kissed her, hard, surprising her, "Greta, THAT has NOTHING to do with it. Greta... you are so much more beautiful than any model in this building." She blushed at his compliment. "I'm just worried, Greta, you are just so...."
Greta shook her head, "If you say innocent I'm going to hit you."
Eric smiled, at her playful nature, *At least she feels a little better.* "Well, yeah... AND, I mean... we are just starting to go out... I mean... this is not a regular photo shoot, how comfortable are you going to be in lingerie in front of me?"
She giggled, "Well, maybe we'll find out." Eric sighed, she continued, "What? I mean it's not that different than a swim suit right? Just different materials." She said trying to convince herself more than him.
He just smiled, and shook his head. *It is nothing like it at all,* he told himself, and knew she knew that too.
"Eric, I want to. You need these pictures, and I want to help you. Besides... I've kinda always wanted to be a model as a little girl."
Eric grinned, "But somehow I doubt you wanted it to be in sexy lingerie."
She giggled, "Well, true. But I can handle it, if you can." She said with a challenge in her voice.
"Okay, we'll do it," He swallowed hard, knowing exactly how difficult this shoot was going to be for both of them. He took a deep breath, "I'll set up while you get dressed, okay?"
Greta nodded, then motioned around the room, "Uh, where?"
Eric smiled, "Right, you don't know. Here, follow me." He walked into the side room of the lab. There were racks, and racks of clothes. He got to one rack, and showed her a bunch of lingerie, "Ummm, I'll just let you pick out whatever you want."
"I thought 'Bella' didn't do lingerie shots." She said looking at the rack of clothes.
Eric responded, "Well, we don't do shots of just lingerie. For some articles in the magazine we photograph a guy and girl together, and the girl wears it, but I have never done those shots." He tried to explain. "It's for the..."
"Sex info. articles." She responded, "And quizzes and stuff, right?" Eric nodded, "I do read 'Bella' sometimes." She admitted.
He smiled, "Okay, I'll leave you to get ready, and I'll go set up the lighting." He gave her a quick kiss on the cheek, and headed out of the room.
Eric walked into the lab, and started to set up the lights where he wanted them. He still couldn't believe he was going to take these types of pictures of *Greta!* He was still in shock. He went over to the door, and locked it, he didn't want just anyone coming into the lab, he knew it was uncomfortable enough for her to do this in front of him. He sighed, and shook his head to get some rather interesting images out of it. *Stop it Brady, you need to be a photographer right now, and not a hormone crazed pig.* He went back to setting up the lights and cameras.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Greta looked through the garments on the rack in front of her, she went to her size, and started looking, some she would take out, and immediately start laughing. Honestly she couldn't believe that she was doing it either. But she knew she had too. She started looking again. *Silk, Satin, Lace, Feathers, Leather, and even Mesh. Geez! And in every color of the rainbow.* She shook her head, and kept looking. After a little while, she finally found something that didn't make her laugh, make her feel ridiculous, or question how to even put it on. She hung in on the hook, and then turned towards the make-up mirror. She brushed out her hair, turned on the curling iron, and picked out her make-up. Her hands were shaking a little, which made putting the eyeliner on difficult, but she did it. When her make-up was done, she got undressed, and then put on the garment she picked out. She then took the light blue robe from behind the door and put it on. She then took a deep breath, "Here goes nothing," she said to herself and left the room.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eric made the last few adjustments of the camera, when he heard the sound of heels on cement. He straightened up, *This is it,* and he slowly turned around. The ankle length, silk, blue robe, hid from view what she was wearing, but he could still see the high heals underneath, and his breath caught in his throat. He looked up at her face, her hair was down, slightly curled, yet a little wild, perfect for the shoot. Her make-up was done, she wore more than he had seen on her, but under the lights it was just right. He walked over to her, "Perfect job on the make-up and hair, you look beautiful."
She smiled, "Thank you, I did do some stage acting remember? I know the effect of lighting."
He grinned, "That's right.... Well, I'm done setting up." He walked over to the area he was going to take the pictures. In the center was a piece of furniture that sort of looked like a bed, with many pillows, and wrinkled white sheets. The back drop was a deep burgundy red, and the lighting was muted, with soft light. "Just sit down, and get comfortable, and I'll check the lighting."
Greta walked over and set on the 'bed' crossing her legs, then she yelled at herself, *This is going to be a sexy shoot remember, stop being so prim and proper.* With that, she leaned back against one of the pillows, and curled up on her side, waiting.
Eric looked through the camera, *Oh, boy.* Was all her could think. He knew that these pictures were going to be more beautiful than any he had taken of Nicole. He stopped looking through the camera, and spoke up, "Okay, I'm ready here."
She looked up at him, "Oh... okay." And she stood up, and started to untie the robe.
Eric grabbed her hand before she could untie it, "Are you absolutely sure about this?"
Greta looked up into his eyes, and she knew, "Yes" She knew that it was okay, she knew it deep in her heart. She knew she would do anything for him. But she also knew, that there was no going back after this, so she might as well have fun with it. A slow, seductive smiled spread across her face, and Eric knew he was in trouble. Her fingers untied the silk robe slowly, as Eric watched, and she then let it drop to the floor.....
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To Be Continued