TITLE: DAYS Fairy Tale: Eric & Greta: Chapters 31-35
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!
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Chapter 31
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Eric looked at Greta in disbelief, "Greta... you know that that is not you mother in there."
Greta shook her head, "How do I know that?"
Eric looked at her in shock, "Because the body in Paris was your mother's."
"Are you sure? This is Stephano we are talking about here."
Eric put a hand on her shoulder, his thumb absently stroking her skin, "Okay, then where is Hope?"
Greta looked at the ceiling, "I don't know. This is all just to weird. It doesn't make any sense."
Eric agreed and pulled her into a hug, wrapping his arms around her, as she laid her face against his chest. He knew this was hard on her, she hadn't gotten over her mothers death yet, and this was bringing it all back up again.
Greta tried to get the feeling out of her mind, but the more she tried to the more she couldn't. Time was passing, Marlena was back from the doctor, Mrs. Horton was home getting some rest, and everyone else was waiting for any word on Hope or Shawn.
The first bit of news came on Shawn, that he had some numbing but that he would be just fine, which was relief to everyone. Papa Shawn had found Bo, and Bo was now in with Shawn, seeing how he was.
The waiting was killing Greta, "What is taking so long?" She asked Eric, she couldn't take it anymore.
"Well, she was shot pretty bad, Greta."
She agreed and leaned back in the chair, and put her head on Eric's shoulder, as he held onto her hand. They sat there quietly a few more minutes then Craig and Lexi came out.
Everyone stood up, and moved over to them, Bo coming out of Shawn's room. Bo spoke first, "Well? How is she?"
Lexi and Craig didn't look too happy, and Greta squeezed Eric's hand, and he squeezed back putting an arm around her.
Craig spoke first, "There was a lot of damage, and we repaired what we could. She is resting right now."
"I want to see her," Bo said trying to move to the room.
Lexi stopped him, "Bo." She said her hand on his arm. He looked at her, and she continued. "We did all that we can, but..."
"But what?"
Craig continued, "Hope is going to need a miracle to pull through."
The realization dawned on everyone. Doug and Julie started to hug each other, Bo's face dropped, tears ran down Greta's face, and Eric pulled her in for another hug for both of them. Bo went to see Hope, and some of the others went to the Hospital Chapel to pray. Greta slowly pulled away and went to set down, she felt dizzy.
Eric walked over to her, and stood in front of her. "Greta, why don't we go home?" He could tell she was exhausted, and so was he.
"I want to see her." She said.
Eric understood, "Okay, why don't we ask someone to call us when she wakes up, and then you can see her."
Greta nodded, and Eric found a nurse. A few minutes later, they were in the elevator heading home.
Greta was quite for a long time, and Eric was about ready to ask if she was all right when she spoke. "I know I should just let this feeling go. Heck, I shouldn't be having this feeling. All I know is something just isn't right about all this. And lately when I have been around her, it's like she is my mother and not Hope."
Eric agreed, "She definitely did not act like her normal self tonight, that is for sure. And maybe she still does have all of Gina's memories, and maybe that is what all this is. But, if she was really your mother, don't you think that she would have told you?"
Greta nodded, "You have a point." Then she thought about it, "Unless, she didn't want to tell me, because she knows me, and she knows that I would have told people the truth."
Eric followed her reasoning on that, "But it still doesn't answer the question of where Hope is."
Greta thought about it for awhile, Eric found a parking spot, turned off the Jeep, got out, and opened Greta's door, while she was lost in thought. He held out his hand for her, bringing her out of her daze. She took it, and they made their way into the apartment. When they got to the door she spoke, "Maybe it is my mother, and maybe it is Stephano's plan, and maybe he has Hope locked up somewhere, and maybe my mother is playing Hope like Hope played my mother."
Eric looked at her, "That is a lot of maybes. But we are talking about Stephano here." He opened the door, and they walked in. They went back towards the bedrooms, each shutting there door, and changing. But still talking loud enough for each one to hear. They went on and on about different possibilities, one countering the other. Eric got done first and went into the kitchen, and got out something to drink. A minute later Greta came out of her bedroom.
She went and sat down on the couch, Eric brought them over each a glass of milk, and sat down beside her. They each drank their milk, and sat the glasses on the coffee table. Eric looked over at Greta and she was starring off into space. He knew this was extremely hard on here, and he wished there was something he could do. But he knew the only thing he could really do was be there for her. He reached over, touched her shoulder, and she looked over at him. She looked so lost and confused. He reached for her, and took hold of her wrist, lightly pulling her over to him. She gladly went, and curled up on his lap, her arms going around his neck, his around her waist. She rested her head on his chest, and he rested his on the top of her head after giving a soft kiss to her forehead.
"This night really changed from being really happy to really upsetting." Eric said quietly, and Greta shook her head in agreement. He held onto her for a long time, more for her, but also for himself. He didn't want to think about it, but the evening was hard for him too. Hope was his aunt, and Bo was his uncle, and he knew how much Bo loved her. He didn't even want to imagine what Bo was going through, but he had a pretty good idea, and with that thought he hugged Greta a little tighter to him.
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Chapter 32
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Greta was pacing around the apartment, it was already after noon, and the hospital still hadn't called to tell her that Hope was awake. Greta had called the hospital twice already, but nothing had changed. Eric was called to work, and he told her he was sorry, and that he would be back as soon as he could. He also took his cell phone with him, so that if she did get a call, she was to call him, and he would meet her at the hospital. She continued walking around the apartment, she hadn't gotten much sleep, only about 4 hours, but she couldn't sleep any longer. She looked around for anything to do, but found nothing. She had already cleaned the whole apartment, washed clothes and dishes, and even made out a nice schedule for her classes coming up soon. When she was nervous and worried she found she would get a lot done in a short amount of time. The only problem now was, there was nothing left to do. She flopped down on the couch, and sighed loudly. That's when she heard the key turning in the lock.
Eric walked through the door, and found Greta laying on the couch, "Greta, you okay?"
She sat up and looked at him, "Yeah, just can't find anything to do."
He looked around the apartment, and smiled, "Yeah well it does look like you have done just about everything to do in here, cleaning wise anyway." She smiled slightly, and he took off his coat, and sat down on the couch next to her. "Any news?"
She shook her head no, then said, "And the hospital isn't to happy with me."
"Why?" he asked confused.
"Because I keep bugging them with phone calls."
He smiled. "Well, do you just want to go over there, and maybe see who is there, talk to Bo or Shawn, or something?" Greta agreed, and they each grabbed their coats and headed for the hospital.
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They arrived at the hospital a few minutes later, and found Doug and Julie. "Is there any news?" Eric asked them.
Doug looked down, and Julie answered, "No, not really. She has woken a few times, mumbled something and then was out again."
Greta looked at her, "Do you know what she said?"
Julie sighed, "I'm not sure exactly, it was french though." Greta took a deep breath of air, and Julie continued, "It sounds something like mon.... pet.. mon.. peti cho.... "
"Mon Petite Choux" Greta said quietly.
"Yes, that could be it." Julie responded.
Eric looked at Greta, "What, what is it?"
Greta looked up at him, "That's what my mother used to call me."
Eric pulled her in close to him, the realization of what she said dawning on him.
"What?" asked Doug, "What are you trying to say."
Eric answered for her, "Greta has been getting a strange feeling for a while, that Hope is really her mother."
"Princess Gina?" Julie asked.
Eric nodded her head, "The only thing is we aren't sure if it is Hope acting like Gina, or if it is really Gina." Eric looked at the hope on their face, "But, I don't want to presume anything. We are waiting for her to wake up, and maybe get some answers."
Doug looked at the two of them, "Well it would sure explain a few things, Hope would never shoot Marlena, or her own son for that matter."
They all agreed, but Greta didn't want to think that her mother was capable of doing that either, but she knew from what she had found out about her mother, that she probably was more than capable of doing just that.
The four of them continued to talk about everything that had happened since Hope had returned from Paris. They all agreed that she was a lot different then when they had left her in France. Some time later, a nurse came over and told them that Hope was awake, and that Bo was in there with her. She also said she would tell them when they could go visit.
Greta nodded, hopefully soon she would get the answers that she needed so badly. *Oh mother, is it really you? Or is it Hope thinking she is you?* Greta sighed, and laid her head on Eric's shoulder, waiting to see if she could get those answers.
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Chapter 33
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A little later Bo came out of Hope's room, Doug and Julie rushed over to him. Eric and Greta were right behind them.
"Bo, is there any news on my daughter?" Doug asked.
Bo nodded, "She's awake. And Greta, she's asking for you." Bo said with a partially confused look on his face.
Greta took a deep breath, and Eric squeezed her shoulder. "Okay." She said quietly, and her and Eric moved to the room. Greta looked inside at *Hope* laying there.
"I'll be right out here if you need me, okay?"
Greta nodded, and opened the door and walked inside. She sat down in the chair beside the bed, and *Hope* opened her eyes and gave a slight smile, "Greta," she said with a european accent.
"Hope, why did you want to see me?" she asked with a tear running down her face, it was almost to much for her to take.
"Greta, I have to tell you something." She said, her voice out of breath. Greta looked at her and nodded for her to continue. "Greta, I'm your mother."
Greta closed her eyes, "No, you are Hope, thinking you are Gina."
She shook her head slightly, "No, Greta, you must believe me. I am your mother, Mon Petite Choux." Tears were flowing down both of their faces.
"How can I believe you? And if it is true, where's Hope?"
"Greta, a test will prove I'm your mother. But, just please believe me, I am your mother." Greta could barely even look at her.
"Why didn't you tell me?"
"I knew you wouldn't be able to keep my secret from your friends."
Greta cried, and leaned her head on Gina's shoulder, "I'm losing you all over again. And again, I'll be all alone." Gina pattered her head, and tried to tilt her face to look up at her.
"You are not alone, you still have your ... father."
Greta sat up, and looked at her in shock, "What?"
"I could not tell you before, and even he does not know."
"Who is it?" Greta asked....
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Eric was looking through the window, and watched them both. He saw Greta lean into *Hope* crying, and *Hope* comforting her. He knew something important was going on. And he jumped slightly when Greta sat up quickly. *Hope* was telling her something, but he couldn't tell what it was.
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Greta sat there in shock, *My father is alive.* She could hardly believe it, and she could hardly believe who it was. Then her thoughts cleared, "Mother, you still haven't answered me Where is Hope?"
Gina could barely speak, "Hope is..." her eyes started to close.
"Mother," her eyes opened again. "Is she alive?" Gina nodded yes. "Where is she?"
Gina tried to talk, and her voice caught, "Greta... Remember... I love you."
"I love you too," she said, tears streaming down her face, "Hope..."
"Hope is in..." her voice cracked again, and she wheezed, trying to catch her breath.
Greta could tell she couldn't speak anymore, and tried guessing for her. "Europe?" Gina nodded yes. "France?" another nod. "Paris?" Gina gave a small nod, squeezed Greta's hand, and her eyes closed. "Mother!" Greta screamed, and the machine flat lined. "Mother!" she screamed louder.
Doctors and nurses came rushing in, pushing Greta out of the way. She backed out of the room, turned around, and found Eric. He opened his arms, and she fell into them. He hugged her to him, as she buried her face in his chest sobbing.
Bo walked over to them, "What's happening?" He said with panic in his voice.
Eric responded, "The doctors rushed in there..."
Greta interrupted him, "Bo it's not Hope," she said between sobs.
"What?" he asked.
Eric titled her head up to look at her, and she continued, "It's my mother in there. She said Hope is alive, and somewhere in Paris."
Eric stood there in shock, "How can we be sure?"
"We could do a DNA test," Bo responded. Greta nodded. He continued, "How did all this happen, what is going on?"
"I don't know, she didn't get that far."
"Did she tell you anything else?" Eric asked.
Greta stiffened slightly, "Nothing about this, I'm just sure that, that is my mother in there." Bo pattered her on the shoulder, and walked over to the window to see the doctors all around *Hope*.
A few minutes later, Lexi came out, head down. Bo, Greta, Eric, Doug and Julie all came over. "Bo, I... I hate to tell you this. We did everything we could."
Greta sobbed into Eric's arms, mumbling "mother."
"I'm sorry, we lost her." Lexi continued, confused by Greta's reaction, and the blank faces of the others.
"I want a DNA test done on her, and compared to Greta and Shawn." Bo told her.
"Why?" Lexi asked.
"Because we have reason to believe that that is Princess Gina and not Hope."
"Okay," She said and went to go set up the tests.
Eric led Greta over to the chairs, and they sat down. He knew this was extremely hard on her, and had no idea what to say or do. He knew what it was like to lose a parent and then get them back. He almost lost his father when he did come back. He knew how hard that was, but he didn't even want to think about how he would have felt if he lost him again. So he just tried to comfort her, and he hugged her tighter.
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Chapter 34
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An hour later, the DNA samples were taken, *Hope* or Gina was taken to the city morgue, and Eric and Greta were on their way home.
Eric looked over at her, she was too quiet for his liking, and also way to pale. He pulled into a parking lot and turned off the Jeep, he got out and walked around to her side. She hadn't even moved, and jumped when he opened the door. He helped her out, locked the doors, and led her into the building. They got to the apartment, and he opened the door, and ushered her inside. He took both of their coats and hung them up. He was getting really worried about her, he sat her on the couch, and had her lean back.
He went into the kitchen, made each of them some turkey sandwiches and poured two glasses of milk. He knew she probably wouldn't eat , but neither of them had ate anything all day, and it was already 6 o'clock.
He brought the food over on a tray, and sat it on the coffee table. She didn't even notice, and when he took her hand she flinched. She looked over at him with a blank look on her face. He motioned to the food, and she nodded. She leaned in and grabbed the plate and sat it on her lap. She picked up the sandwich and took a small bite and sat it back on the plate. Eric watched her, and ate some of his, by the time he was done, she had still only ate that one bite. He encouraged her to eat more, and she did, she got about half of it down and some of her milk wath a lot of persuasion. She refused anymore, and he didn't bug her about it. He moved closer to her, and she laid her head on his shoulder, he reached out with one hand, and squeezed hers. He brought his other arm around the back of her to hold her to him. And they were quiet for a long time, she was so quiet he thought she fell asleep. He moved slightly to look at her, and she looked back at him. She looked so lost, and alone, it pained his heart to see her like this. He also knew that it wouldn't matter what the test results came back, either way her mother was dead, and it was all way to much for her. He leaned his forehead on hers, and talked very quietly too her. "Greta, do you want to talk about it?" She shook her head no. "Is there anything you want to do?" She again shook her head no. He looked a her more closely, she looked completely worn out. "Do you want to go lay down? Get some sleep, maybe?"
She stiffened, and wrapped her arms around him a little tighter. She didn't have to speak, he knew what she felt. She didn't want to be alone, and he understood completely. "Greta, I'm going to be right here with you. But you need some sleep."
She spoke quietly, "But I don't want to be alone."
He gave her a slight smile, "Who says you will be alone?"
With that, he stood up slowly, picked her up, and carried her into her bedroom. At the side of the bed, he sat her down. She sat on the edge and took her shoes off. She then stood up, and went over to her dresser, she took out a pair of pajama's. She looked at him, made a circling motion with her finger. He smiled, and turned around. She quickly changed behind him, then he saw a pile of clothes being tossed in the corner, she tapped him, on the shoulder, and her turned back around.
He kissed her forehead, and pulled back the covers and she got in. She turned away from him, he sat on the edge of the bed, removed his shoes as well. Then stood up, removed his jeans, and sweater, and then climbed in with her, with his boxers and T-shirt on.
She lifted her head up, so her cold lay his arm down, and the she rested her head back on his shoulder. His other arm, came around her and hugged her to him. Her own hands moving up to hold his. He moved his face to rest at her neck. He felt her relax, and then heard her softly speak, "Thank you."
"For what?" he asked quietly.
"For everything." She said, and raised his hand to her lips, and gave it a quick kiss. It barely took any time and she was fast asleep. Eric watched her, and held onto her. His heart ached for her, he kissed the top of her head, and tried to get some sleep of his own.
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A few hours later, Greta slowly opened her eyes, she wasn't exactly sure where she was for a minute. Then she felt Eric's arms around her, and smiled. She hugged his arms to her for a brief moment, and then turned slowly around to face him. She still wasn't herself, she knew she wouldn't be for awhile, but she did feel better. Also, she didn't want to think about it anymore. Maybe because she had already been through it a couple of times, and was used to grieving, she was already starting to try and forget about it. However she knew, that with the whole DNA thing, the memorial, and everything else, it would bring everything back up again. She closed her eyes, and then reopened them trying to forget all about it, at least for now. She look at the wonderful man that was holding her, and she gave a slight smile to that thought. Her hand came up and pushed a stray piece of hair away from his face. She must have tickled him, because he moved, and mumbled something, which brought a slightly larger smile to her face. She put her hand on his chest, and felt the beating of his heart, and the in and out movement of his breathing. She moved closer to him, and put a light kiss on his check. He moved slightly again. She smiled, and moved in closer, and kissed him.
She meant for it to only be a short kiss, but she didn't expect for his hand to come up to the back of her head, and deepen the kiss. She opened her eyes to find his still closed. She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him more passionately. When her tongue lightly licked at his lips, that's when he jumped, and his eyes opened, and she giggled. His eyes wide, he looked at her, and she leaned in again, and kissed him again. However this time, when her tongue met his lips, he didn't move away.
The kiss continued, his arms bringing her over closer to him, he turned onto his back, and pulled her with him. She giggled slightly into the kiss and he smiled. After a little they broke away for air. He smiled up at her. "What a way to be woken up."
She grinned, "Sorry, didn't mean to startle you." Then she laughed.
Eric loved to her her laugh, especially, now with everything that was going on. "What? What's so funny?"
She smiled down at him, "Oh nothing, just that you still kiss pretty well when you are asleep."
"I was kissing you while I was asleep?" She nodded yes. Then he laughed, "Well, I was wondering why I was having such a good dream." For that he got a small whack on the shoulder. "What time is it anyways?"
Greta looked at the clock, "It's 11:32."
"Okay, why are you awake?"
"Because, we went to bed at 6:30. And...." she trailed off.
"And?"
She leaned her head down onto his chest. "And... I'm hungry."
He laughed, "I tried to get you to eat more."
"Well I wasn't hungry then, I am now. How about we order a pizza?"
"Sounds good to me," He said. She was about ready to get up, when he grabbed her wrist and pulled her back to him. His hands went to each side of her face, and made her look at him.
"What?" she asked.
He looked deep into her eyes, he almost didn't want to ask, but he had to know. "Are you really okay right now? Or are you trying to hide it?"
She leaned down, and laid her head on his chest again. "No, I'm not hiding anything. I just want to do something else besides think about it for awhile."
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Chapter 35
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Eric was at the Java Cafe waiting for his mom for breakfast. The waitress came over and he ordered a cup of coffee, but before she left Marlena came up and ordered one for herself. The waitress then left to get the order.
"Hello, mom." Eric said as she took the seat across from him.
"Hello, nice morning."
"Yeah, it's supposed to be a little warmer today."
Marlena looked at him, as the waitress came back over and gave them their drinks. They then each ordered a bagel, Eric's with cream cheese, Marlena's with strawberry jam. Once the waitress left, Marlena spoke. "Okay, now why don't you tell me what's wrong and the real reason you wanted to have breakfast together, and not that you just wanted to see your mother."
Eric took a deep breath, "Okay the real reason is that I am worried about Greta."
"Well, she will be upset for awhile."
"That's just it. Besides what she was feeling at the hospital and a little bit when we got back home, she's been fine." Marlena looked at him puzzled. "She felt horrible, so I suggested getting some sleep. Once she woke up from the nap she was fine. Well better than fine, she was her normal self."
Marlena nodded, "I can see why you are worried, the fast change of emotions. In her mind she is trying to deal with it by not thinking about it." She paused then went on. "She is pushing it as far away as she can. The only problem with that is it has to come out as some point."
Eric understood, "What can I do?"
"Don't push the subject. She'll talk if she wants too. Just be there for her, because it will come out, probably when she least expects it. Some little thing will remind her, and it will all come to the surface."
Eric nodded and sighed, "Okay." Their food came and they continued talking while they ate breakfast.
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Greta walked around Salem place, looking for clothes for Hawaii. She had already found a few and a couple school supplies. She looked through her bags, *These will go well with the backpack Eric got me.* She smiled remembering him giving that to her when she got accepted at Salem 'U'. She then continued walking and passed the travel agency, she couldn't wait for Hawaii. But her smiled faded as her eyes met the poster for Paris. *No, don't do this. Every time you think of Paris you can't think of her. Eric and you had a lot of good times there.* She shook her head and quickly moved away from the poster. She turned the corner and saw Eric at Java Cafe.
She smiled and made her way over. When she got close enough she yelled his name, and he looked up and smiled at her. She finally made it to the table and took a seat. "Good morning Mrs. Black." She said with a smiled.
"Good morning to you to Greta, and you know what you can call be Marlena." Greta smiled, "How are you doing today?"
"Good, just doing some shopping for school and Hawaii," she said with a large smile.
Eric gave his mother a look, which she returned one of her own. Greta was definitely in way too good of a mood. "Hawaii?" she asked.
Eric smiled, "Yeah, I forgot to tell you about that didn't I?"
"Yes you did." Marlena said with a smile.
He smiled, "For christmas I got Greta a trip to Hawaii for the two of us."
"Sounds like fun, " She said with a a large smile making Eric blush.
Greta smiled, "And the funny thing is, I got him a trip to Colorado for March."
Marlena laughed, "You two do think alike."
"Well, I hate to do this ladies, but I have to go to work, I will see you later." He went over to his mom and gave her a large hug.
"Remember what I said," she said looking at him. He gave her an understanding nod and then moved over to Greta.
"Okay, I'll see you for dinner. We'll go out or something, okay?" she nodded yes, and he gave her a quick kiss, then left.
Marlena smiled again, "I'm glad the two of you are getting along so well."
"Me too," Greta said with a little blush in her cheeks.
Marlena's cell phone rang, and she answered it, talking a little bit, she hung up then spoke. "Well, that was work. I need to go." She stood up and put some money on the table. "If you want to talk or anything, I'm always here to listen." She said placing a hand on Greta's shoulder.
Greta smiled at her, "Thank you." She said. With that Marlena left and Greta continued with her shopping.
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Eric opened the door to the apartment and was welcomed to and extremely clean room. He looked closer, *she even polished the tables.*
A moment later Greta came bounding out of her bedroom, "I'm glad you're home, I'm starving." She said with a large smile on her face.
He motioned to the room, "Well you should be with everything you did today."
She nodded, "Yeah, I thought it could use a good cleaning, and not just a straightening."
Eric knew that wasn't her only reason, but didn't push her about it. "Ready for dinner?"
"Yep, let me get my shoes on." and with that she was off to her bedroom, and back a moment later with them in her hands. She sat on the couch to put them on. He sat down next to her and watched her. "What?" she asked when she was done.
He shook his head, "Nothing." He leaned in and gave her a soft kiss, then stood up. He took her hand, and led her to the door. She grabbed her coat and purse on the way out. In a little bit they were at the Brady Pub. Eric opened the door, she smiled and entered, he followed. Caroline came over, gave them each a hug, and had them sit down.
They both placed their orders, knowing they wanted the clam chowder. Caroline left them to get their food and Eric reached out and took her hand. She smiled at him, he brought her had to his lips, and gave it a light kiss. They sat there quietly for a few minutes, and the Caroline came back with the chowder and some drinks.
They started to eat, and Eric spoke. "So did you get all your shopping done for Hawaii?"
Greta looked up at him, "Yep and some for school and some for... just cause."
He smiled, "Okay."
"What? There were some really good sales on. I got this one beautiful blue sweater for half price."
Eric laughed and shook his head, "Women." Greta gave him a dirty look, which just made his smile get bigger. They continued eating and talking until Greta's cell phone in her purse started to ring.
Greta took out her phone, and answered it, "Hello." He face went pale and her voice became very quiet. "Okay, we'll be right there."
"What is it?" Eric asked as she hung up the phone.
"The DNA results are in," she said with almost no emotion.
Eric nodded, and they both got up and put on their coats. Eric laid some money on the table and they were out the door on the way to the Hospital.
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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!
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Chapter 31
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Eric looked at Greta in disbelief, "Greta... you know that that is not you mother in there."
Greta shook her head, "How do I know that?"
Eric looked at her in shock, "Because the body in Paris was your mother's."
"Are you sure? This is Stephano we are talking about here."
Eric put a hand on her shoulder, his thumb absently stroking her skin, "Okay, then where is Hope?"
Greta looked at the ceiling, "I don't know. This is all just to weird. It doesn't make any sense."
Eric agreed and pulled her into a hug, wrapping his arms around her, as she laid her face against his chest. He knew this was hard on her, she hadn't gotten over her mothers death yet, and this was bringing it all back up again.
Greta tried to get the feeling out of her mind, but the more she tried to the more she couldn't. Time was passing, Marlena was back from the doctor, Mrs. Horton was home getting some rest, and everyone else was waiting for any word on Hope or Shawn.
The first bit of news came on Shawn, that he had some numbing but that he would be just fine, which was relief to everyone. Papa Shawn had found Bo, and Bo was now in with Shawn, seeing how he was.
The waiting was killing Greta, "What is taking so long?" She asked Eric, she couldn't take it anymore.
"Well, she was shot pretty bad, Greta."
She agreed and leaned back in the chair, and put her head on Eric's shoulder, as he held onto her hand. They sat there quietly a few more minutes then Craig and Lexi came out.
Everyone stood up, and moved over to them, Bo coming out of Shawn's room. Bo spoke first, "Well? How is she?"
Lexi and Craig didn't look too happy, and Greta squeezed Eric's hand, and he squeezed back putting an arm around her.
Craig spoke first, "There was a lot of damage, and we repaired what we could. She is resting right now."
"I want to see her," Bo said trying to move to the room.
Lexi stopped him, "Bo." She said her hand on his arm. He looked at her, and she continued. "We did all that we can, but..."
"But what?"
Craig continued, "Hope is going to need a miracle to pull through."
The realization dawned on everyone. Doug and Julie started to hug each other, Bo's face dropped, tears ran down Greta's face, and Eric pulled her in for another hug for both of them. Bo went to see Hope, and some of the others went to the Hospital Chapel to pray. Greta slowly pulled away and went to set down, she felt dizzy.
Eric walked over to her, and stood in front of her. "Greta, why don't we go home?" He could tell she was exhausted, and so was he.
"I want to see her." She said.
Eric understood, "Okay, why don't we ask someone to call us when she wakes up, and then you can see her."
Greta nodded, and Eric found a nurse. A few minutes later, they were in the elevator heading home.
Greta was quite for a long time, and Eric was about ready to ask if she was all right when she spoke. "I know I should just let this feeling go. Heck, I shouldn't be having this feeling. All I know is something just isn't right about all this. And lately when I have been around her, it's like she is my mother and not Hope."
Eric agreed, "She definitely did not act like her normal self tonight, that is for sure. And maybe she still does have all of Gina's memories, and maybe that is what all this is. But, if she was really your mother, don't you think that she would have told you?"
Greta nodded, "You have a point." Then she thought about it, "Unless, she didn't want to tell me, because she knows me, and she knows that I would have told people the truth."
Eric followed her reasoning on that, "But it still doesn't answer the question of where Hope is."
Greta thought about it for awhile, Eric found a parking spot, turned off the Jeep, got out, and opened Greta's door, while she was lost in thought. He held out his hand for her, bringing her out of her daze. She took it, and they made their way into the apartment. When they got to the door she spoke, "Maybe it is my mother, and maybe it is Stephano's plan, and maybe he has Hope locked up somewhere, and maybe my mother is playing Hope like Hope played my mother."
Eric looked at her, "That is a lot of maybes. But we are talking about Stephano here." He opened the door, and they walked in. They went back towards the bedrooms, each shutting there door, and changing. But still talking loud enough for each one to hear. They went on and on about different possibilities, one countering the other. Eric got done first and went into the kitchen, and got out something to drink. A minute later Greta came out of her bedroom.
She went and sat down on the couch, Eric brought them over each a glass of milk, and sat down beside her. They each drank their milk, and sat the glasses on the coffee table. Eric looked over at Greta and she was starring off into space. He knew this was extremely hard on here, and he wished there was something he could do. But he knew the only thing he could really do was be there for her. He reached over, touched her shoulder, and she looked over at him. She looked so lost and confused. He reached for her, and took hold of her wrist, lightly pulling her over to him. She gladly went, and curled up on his lap, her arms going around his neck, his around her waist. She rested her head on his chest, and he rested his on the top of her head after giving a soft kiss to her forehead.
"This night really changed from being really happy to really upsetting." Eric said quietly, and Greta shook her head in agreement. He held onto her for a long time, more for her, but also for himself. He didn't want to think about it, but the evening was hard for him too. Hope was his aunt, and Bo was his uncle, and he knew how much Bo loved her. He didn't even want to imagine what Bo was going through, but he had a pretty good idea, and with that thought he hugged Greta a little tighter to him.
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Chapter 32
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Greta was pacing around the apartment, it was already after noon, and the hospital still hadn't called to tell her that Hope was awake. Greta had called the hospital twice already, but nothing had changed. Eric was called to work, and he told her he was sorry, and that he would be back as soon as he could. He also took his cell phone with him, so that if she did get a call, she was to call him, and he would meet her at the hospital. She continued walking around the apartment, she hadn't gotten much sleep, only about 4 hours, but she couldn't sleep any longer. She looked around for anything to do, but found nothing. She had already cleaned the whole apartment, washed clothes and dishes, and even made out a nice schedule for her classes coming up soon. When she was nervous and worried she found she would get a lot done in a short amount of time. The only problem now was, there was nothing left to do. She flopped down on the couch, and sighed loudly. That's when she heard the key turning in the lock.
Eric walked through the door, and found Greta laying on the couch, "Greta, you okay?"
She sat up and looked at him, "Yeah, just can't find anything to do."
He looked around the apartment, and smiled, "Yeah well it does look like you have done just about everything to do in here, cleaning wise anyway." She smiled slightly, and he took off his coat, and sat down on the couch next to her. "Any news?"
She shook her head no, then said, "And the hospital isn't to happy with me."
"Why?" he asked confused.
"Because I keep bugging them with phone calls."
He smiled. "Well, do you just want to go over there, and maybe see who is there, talk to Bo or Shawn, or something?" Greta agreed, and they each grabbed their coats and headed for the hospital.
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They arrived at the hospital a few minutes later, and found Doug and Julie. "Is there any news?" Eric asked them.
Doug looked down, and Julie answered, "No, not really. She has woken a few times, mumbled something and then was out again."
Greta looked at her, "Do you know what she said?"
Julie sighed, "I'm not sure exactly, it was french though." Greta took a deep breath of air, and Julie continued, "It sounds something like mon.... pet.. mon.. peti cho.... "
"Mon Petite Choux" Greta said quietly.
"Yes, that could be it." Julie responded.
Eric looked at Greta, "What, what is it?"
Greta looked up at him, "That's what my mother used to call me."
Eric pulled her in close to him, the realization of what she said dawning on him.
"What?" asked Doug, "What are you trying to say."
Eric answered for her, "Greta has been getting a strange feeling for a while, that Hope is really her mother."
"Princess Gina?" Julie asked.
Eric nodded her head, "The only thing is we aren't sure if it is Hope acting like Gina, or if it is really Gina." Eric looked at the hope on their face, "But, I don't want to presume anything. We are waiting for her to wake up, and maybe get some answers."
Doug looked at the two of them, "Well it would sure explain a few things, Hope would never shoot Marlena, or her own son for that matter."
They all agreed, but Greta didn't want to think that her mother was capable of doing that either, but she knew from what she had found out about her mother, that she probably was more than capable of doing just that.
The four of them continued to talk about everything that had happened since Hope had returned from Paris. They all agreed that she was a lot different then when they had left her in France. Some time later, a nurse came over and told them that Hope was awake, and that Bo was in there with her. She also said she would tell them when they could go visit.
Greta nodded, hopefully soon she would get the answers that she needed so badly. *Oh mother, is it really you? Or is it Hope thinking she is you?* Greta sighed, and laid her head on Eric's shoulder, waiting to see if she could get those answers.
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Chapter 33
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A little later Bo came out of Hope's room, Doug and Julie rushed over to him. Eric and Greta were right behind them.
"Bo, is there any news on my daughter?" Doug asked.
Bo nodded, "She's awake. And Greta, she's asking for you." Bo said with a partially confused look on his face.
Greta took a deep breath, and Eric squeezed her shoulder. "Okay." She said quietly, and her and Eric moved to the room. Greta looked inside at *Hope* laying there.
"I'll be right out here if you need me, okay?"
Greta nodded, and opened the door and walked inside. She sat down in the chair beside the bed, and *Hope* opened her eyes and gave a slight smile, "Greta," she said with a european accent.
"Hope, why did you want to see me?" she asked with a tear running down her face, it was almost to much for her to take.
"Greta, I have to tell you something." She said, her voice out of breath. Greta looked at her and nodded for her to continue. "Greta, I'm your mother."
Greta closed her eyes, "No, you are Hope, thinking you are Gina."
She shook her head slightly, "No, Greta, you must believe me. I am your mother, Mon Petite Choux." Tears were flowing down both of their faces.
"How can I believe you? And if it is true, where's Hope?"
"Greta, a test will prove I'm your mother. But, just please believe me, I am your mother." Greta could barely even look at her.
"Why didn't you tell me?"
"I knew you wouldn't be able to keep my secret from your friends."
Greta cried, and leaned her head on Gina's shoulder, "I'm losing you all over again. And again, I'll be all alone." Gina pattered her head, and tried to tilt her face to look up at her.
"You are not alone, you still have your ... father."
Greta sat up, and looked at her in shock, "What?"
"I could not tell you before, and even he does not know."
"Who is it?" Greta asked....
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Eric was looking through the window, and watched them both. He saw Greta lean into *Hope* crying, and *Hope* comforting her. He knew something important was going on. And he jumped slightly when Greta sat up quickly. *Hope* was telling her something, but he couldn't tell what it was.
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Greta sat there in shock, *My father is alive.* She could hardly believe it, and she could hardly believe who it was. Then her thoughts cleared, "Mother, you still haven't answered me Where is Hope?"
Gina could barely speak, "Hope is..." her eyes started to close.
"Mother," her eyes opened again. "Is she alive?" Gina nodded yes. "Where is she?"
Gina tried to talk, and her voice caught, "Greta... Remember... I love you."
"I love you too," she said, tears streaming down her face, "Hope..."
"Hope is in..." her voice cracked again, and she wheezed, trying to catch her breath.
Greta could tell she couldn't speak anymore, and tried guessing for her. "Europe?" Gina nodded yes. "France?" another nod. "Paris?" Gina gave a small nod, squeezed Greta's hand, and her eyes closed. "Mother!" Greta screamed, and the machine flat lined. "Mother!" she screamed louder.
Doctors and nurses came rushing in, pushing Greta out of the way. She backed out of the room, turned around, and found Eric. He opened his arms, and she fell into them. He hugged her to him, as she buried her face in his chest sobbing.
Bo walked over to them, "What's happening?" He said with panic in his voice.
Eric responded, "The doctors rushed in there..."
Greta interrupted him, "Bo it's not Hope," she said between sobs.
"What?" he asked.
Eric titled her head up to look at her, and she continued, "It's my mother in there. She said Hope is alive, and somewhere in Paris."
Eric stood there in shock, "How can we be sure?"
"We could do a DNA test," Bo responded. Greta nodded. He continued, "How did all this happen, what is going on?"
"I don't know, she didn't get that far."
"Did she tell you anything else?" Eric asked.
Greta stiffened slightly, "Nothing about this, I'm just sure that, that is my mother in there." Bo pattered her on the shoulder, and walked over to the window to see the doctors all around *Hope*.
A few minutes later, Lexi came out, head down. Bo, Greta, Eric, Doug and Julie all came over. "Bo, I... I hate to tell you this. We did everything we could."
Greta sobbed into Eric's arms, mumbling "mother."
"I'm sorry, we lost her." Lexi continued, confused by Greta's reaction, and the blank faces of the others.
"I want a DNA test done on her, and compared to Greta and Shawn." Bo told her.
"Why?" Lexi asked.
"Because we have reason to believe that that is Princess Gina and not Hope."
"Okay," She said and went to go set up the tests.
Eric led Greta over to the chairs, and they sat down. He knew this was extremely hard on her, and had no idea what to say or do. He knew what it was like to lose a parent and then get them back. He almost lost his father when he did come back. He knew how hard that was, but he didn't even want to think about how he would have felt if he lost him again. So he just tried to comfort her, and he hugged her tighter.
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Chapter 34
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An hour later, the DNA samples were taken, *Hope* or Gina was taken to the city morgue, and Eric and Greta were on their way home.
Eric looked over at her, she was too quiet for his liking, and also way to pale. He pulled into a parking lot and turned off the Jeep, he got out and walked around to her side. She hadn't even moved, and jumped when he opened the door. He helped her out, locked the doors, and led her into the building. They got to the apartment, and he opened the door, and ushered her inside. He took both of their coats and hung them up. He was getting really worried about her, he sat her on the couch, and had her lean back.
He went into the kitchen, made each of them some turkey sandwiches and poured two glasses of milk. He knew she probably wouldn't eat , but neither of them had ate anything all day, and it was already 6 o'clock.
He brought the food over on a tray, and sat it on the coffee table. She didn't even notice, and when he took her hand she flinched. She looked over at him with a blank look on her face. He motioned to the food, and she nodded. She leaned in and grabbed the plate and sat it on her lap. She picked up the sandwich and took a small bite and sat it back on the plate. Eric watched her, and ate some of his, by the time he was done, she had still only ate that one bite. He encouraged her to eat more, and she did, she got about half of it down and some of her milk wath a lot of persuasion. She refused anymore, and he didn't bug her about it. He moved closer to her, and she laid her head on his shoulder, he reached out with one hand, and squeezed hers. He brought his other arm around the back of her to hold her to him. And they were quiet for a long time, she was so quiet he thought she fell asleep. He moved slightly to look at her, and she looked back at him. She looked so lost, and alone, it pained his heart to see her like this. He also knew that it wouldn't matter what the test results came back, either way her mother was dead, and it was all way to much for her. He leaned his forehead on hers, and talked very quietly too her. "Greta, do you want to talk about it?" She shook her head no. "Is there anything you want to do?" She again shook her head no. He looked a her more closely, she looked completely worn out. "Do you want to go lay down? Get some sleep, maybe?"
She stiffened, and wrapped her arms around him a little tighter. She didn't have to speak, he knew what she felt. She didn't want to be alone, and he understood completely. "Greta, I'm going to be right here with you. But you need some sleep."
She spoke quietly, "But I don't want to be alone."
He gave her a slight smile, "Who says you will be alone?"
With that, he stood up slowly, picked her up, and carried her into her bedroom. At the side of the bed, he sat her down. She sat on the edge and took her shoes off. She then stood up, and went over to her dresser, she took out a pair of pajama's. She looked at him, made a circling motion with her finger. He smiled, and turned around. She quickly changed behind him, then he saw a pile of clothes being tossed in the corner, she tapped him, on the shoulder, and her turned back around.
He kissed her forehead, and pulled back the covers and she got in. She turned away from him, he sat on the edge of the bed, removed his shoes as well. Then stood up, removed his jeans, and sweater, and then climbed in with her, with his boxers and T-shirt on.
She lifted her head up, so her cold lay his arm down, and the she rested her head back on his shoulder. His other arm, came around her and hugged her to him. Her own hands moving up to hold his. He moved his face to rest at her neck. He felt her relax, and then heard her softly speak, "Thank you."
"For what?" he asked quietly.
"For everything." She said, and raised his hand to her lips, and gave it a quick kiss. It barely took any time and she was fast asleep. Eric watched her, and held onto her. His heart ached for her, he kissed the top of her head, and tried to get some sleep of his own.
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A few hours later, Greta slowly opened her eyes, she wasn't exactly sure where she was for a minute. Then she felt Eric's arms around her, and smiled. She hugged his arms to her for a brief moment, and then turned slowly around to face him. She still wasn't herself, she knew she wouldn't be for awhile, but she did feel better. Also, she didn't want to think about it anymore. Maybe because she had already been through it a couple of times, and was used to grieving, she was already starting to try and forget about it. However she knew, that with the whole DNA thing, the memorial, and everything else, it would bring everything back up again. She closed her eyes, and then reopened them trying to forget all about it, at least for now. She look at the wonderful man that was holding her, and she gave a slight smile to that thought. Her hand came up and pushed a stray piece of hair away from his face. She must have tickled him, because he moved, and mumbled something, which brought a slightly larger smile to her face. She put her hand on his chest, and felt the beating of his heart, and the in and out movement of his breathing. She moved closer to him, and put a light kiss on his check. He moved slightly again. She smiled, and moved in closer, and kissed him.
She meant for it to only be a short kiss, but she didn't expect for his hand to come up to the back of her head, and deepen the kiss. She opened her eyes to find his still closed. She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him more passionately. When her tongue lightly licked at his lips, that's when he jumped, and his eyes opened, and she giggled. His eyes wide, he looked at her, and she leaned in again, and kissed him again. However this time, when her tongue met his lips, he didn't move away.
The kiss continued, his arms bringing her over closer to him, he turned onto his back, and pulled her with him. She giggled slightly into the kiss and he smiled. After a little they broke away for air. He smiled up at her. "What a way to be woken up."
She grinned, "Sorry, didn't mean to startle you." Then she laughed.
Eric loved to her her laugh, especially, now with everything that was going on. "What? What's so funny?"
She smiled down at him, "Oh nothing, just that you still kiss pretty well when you are asleep."
"I was kissing you while I was asleep?" She nodded yes. Then he laughed, "Well, I was wondering why I was having such a good dream." For that he got a small whack on the shoulder. "What time is it anyways?"
Greta looked at the clock, "It's 11:32."
"Okay, why are you awake?"
"Because, we went to bed at 6:30. And...." she trailed off.
"And?"
She leaned her head down onto his chest. "And... I'm hungry."
He laughed, "I tried to get you to eat more."
"Well I wasn't hungry then, I am now. How about we order a pizza?"
"Sounds good to me," He said. She was about ready to get up, when he grabbed her wrist and pulled her back to him. His hands went to each side of her face, and made her look at him.
"What?" she asked.
He looked deep into her eyes, he almost didn't want to ask, but he had to know. "Are you really okay right now? Or are you trying to hide it?"
She leaned down, and laid her head on his chest again. "No, I'm not hiding anything. I just want to do something else besides think about it for awhile."
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Chapter 35
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Eric was at the Java Cafe waiting for his mom for breakfast. The waitress came over and he ordered a cup of coffee, but before she left Marlena came up and ordered one for herself. The waitress then left to get the order.
"Hello, mom." Eric said as she took the seat across from him.
"Hello, nice morning."
"Yeah, it's supposed to be a little warmer today."
Marlena looked at him, as the waitress came back over and gave them their drinks. They then each ordered a bagel, Eric's with cream cheese, Marlena's with strawberry jam. Once the waitress left, Marlena spoke. "Okay, now why don't you tell me what's wrong and the real reason you wanted to have breakfast together, and not that you just wanted to see your mother."
Eric took a deep breath, "Okay the real reason is that I am worried about Greta."
"Well, she will be upset for awhile."
"That's just it. Besides what she was feeling at the hospital and a little bit when we got back home, she's been fine." Marlena looked at him puzzled. "She felt horrible, so I suggested getting some sleep. Once she woke up from the nap she was fine. Well better than fine, she was her normal self."
Marlena nodded, "I can see why you are worried, the fast change of emotions. In her mind she is trying to deal with it by not thinking about it." She paused then went on. "She is pushing it as far away as she can. The only problem with that is it has to come out as some point."
Eric understood, "What can I do?"
"Don't push the subject. She'll talk if she wants too. Just be there for her, because it will come out, probably when she least expects it. Some little thing will remind her, and it will all come to the surface."
Eric nodded and sighed, "Okay." Their food came and they continued talking while they ate breakfast.
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Greta walked around Salem place, looking for clothes for Hawaii. She had already found a few and a couple school supplies. She looked through her bags, *These will go well with the backpack Eric got me.* She smiled remembering him giving that to her when she got accepted at Salem 'U'. She then continued walking and passed the travel agency, she couldn't wait for Hawaii. But her smiled faded as her eyes met the poster for Paris. *No, don't do this. Every time you think of Paris you can't think of her. Eric and you had a lot of good times there.* She shook her head and quickly moved away from the poster. She turned the corner and saw Eric at Java Cafe.
She smiled and made her way over. When she got close enough she yelled his name, and he looked up and smiled at her. She finally made it to the table and took a seat. "Good morning Mrs. Black." She said with a smiled.
"Good morning to you to Greta, and you know what you can call be Marlena." Greta smiled, "How are you doing today?"
"Good, just doing some shopping for school and Hawaii," she said with a large smile.
Eric gave his mother a look, which she returned one of her own. Greta was definitely in way too good of a mood. "Hawaii?" she asked.
Eric smiled, "Yeah, I forgot to tell you about that didn't I?"
"Yes you did." Marlena said with a smile.
He smiled, "For christmas I got Greta a trip to Hawaii for the two of us."
"Sounds like fun, " She said with a a large smile making Eric blush.
Greta smiled, "And the funny thing is, I got him a trip to Colorado for March."
Marlena laughed, "You two do think alike."
"Well, I hate to do this ladies, but I have to go to work, I will see you later." He went over to his mom and gave her a large hug.
"Remember what I said," she said looking at him. He gave her an understanding nod and then moved over to Greta.
"Okay, I'll see you for dinner. We'll go out or something, okay?" she nodded yes, and he gave her a quick kiss, then left.
Marlena smiled again, "I'm glad the two of you are getting along so well."
"Me too," Greta said with a little blush in her cheeks.
Marlena's cell phone rang, and she answered it, talking a little bit, she hung up then spoke. "Well, that was work. I need to go." She stood up and put some money on the table. "If you want to talk or anything, I'm always here to listen." She said placing a hand on Greta's shoulder.
Greta smiled at her, "Thank you." She said. With that Marlena left and Greta continued with her shopping.
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Eric opened the door to the apartment and was welcomed to and extremely clean room. He looked closer, *she even polished the tables.*
A moment later Greta came bounding out of her bedroom, "I'm glad you're home, I'm starving." She said with a large smile on her face.
He motioned to the room, "Well you should be with everything you did today."
She nodded, "Yeah, I thought it could use a good cleaning, and not just a straightening."
Eric knew that wasn't her only reason, but didn't push her about it. "Ready for dinner?"
"Yep, let me get my shoes on." and with that she was off to her bedroom, and back a moment later with them in her hands. She sat on the couch to put them on. He sat down next to her and watched her. "What?" she asked when she was done.
He shook his head, "Nothing." He leaned in and gave her a soft kiss, then stood up. He took her hand, and led her to the door. She grabbed her coat and purse on the way out. In a little bit they were at the Brady Pub. Eric opened the door, she smiled and entered, he followed. Caroline came over, gave them each a hug, and had them sit down.
They both placed their orders, knowing they wanted the clam chowder. Caroline left them to get their food and Eric reached out and took her hand. She smiled at him, he brought her had to his lips, and gave it a light kiss. They sat there quietly for a few minutes, and the Caroline came back with the chowder and some drinks.
They started to eat, and Eric spoke. "So did you get all your shopping done for Hawaii?"
Greta looked up at him, "Yep and some for school and some for... just cause."
He smiled, "Okay."
"What? There were some really good sales on. I got this one beautiful blue sweater for half price."
Eric laughed and shook his head, "Women." Greta gave him a dirty look, which just made his smile get bigger. They continued eating and talking until Greta's cell phone in her purse started to ring.
Greta took out her phone, and answered it, "Hello." He face went pale and her voice became very quiet. "Okay, we'll be right there."
"What is it?" Eric asked as she hung up the phone.
"The DNA results are in," she said with almost no emotion.
Eric nodded, and they both got up and put on their coats. Eric laid some money on the table and they were out the door on the way to the Hospital.
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To Be Continued