TITLE: DAYS Fairy Tale: Eric & Greta: Chapters 101-105
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 101
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eric finished telling Abe what he knew happened, "And then that's where you came in." He told him.
Abe sighed, "Okay, thanks Eric. If I have anything else, I'll let you know, unfortunately I will have to talk to Greta at some point."
Eric nodded, and then looked up to see Lexi come out. "How is she?" He asked walking up to her, John right on his heals.
Lexi folded her arms in front of her, "Well, she has a nasty bruise over her eye, a couple broken ribs, and other small bruises and scratches."
"Can I see her?" Eric asked her pleading.
"Yeah," He started to walk off, but she grabbed his arm. "Eric."
"Yes?"
She sighed, "She can go home, or where ever she wants, but..." She sighed again, "She is really upset, and she was very jumpy with me examining her."
"I understand," he said starting to walk again.
Then Marlena stopped him, "No, I don't think you do."
"What are you saying mom?"
"You need to be prepared for some possibilities."
"Like what?" Eric said looking worried.
Lexi and Marlena dragged him back over to the chairs to talk to him. Marlena started, "Well she might not even agree to go back to the apartment, she may feel better coming home with me and John."
Eric sighed, "Okay. But she might go back home with me right?"
Lexi nodded, "She might, it is her home, and she might feel safe there. But there is a lot you need to know. There are typically three behaviors, at least, that she might exhibit because of this... attempted.. rape."
Marlena continued, "Well, she can become very jumpy, especially when touched, and around men in general, and from what Lexi said before, that seems like the case. It will take time for her to relax, and get her 'safety' back."
Lexi chimed in, "She could also try and use you as a safety measure, which is fine to an extent, you don't want her to become to dependent. And this could also lead into her bottling it all up and not dealing with what happened, just trying to get everything back to normal."
Marlena, followed, "And since you and her had a fight before hand, she may try to ignore the fight, or agree that you where right, and then not trust herself to make her own decisions, which isn't good either."
"Or there is the other extreme, of the first one," Lexi continued, "She may want to purge the experience from her mind."
Eric looked at her confused, "Well that's good, isn't it? How would she do that?"
Marlena shook her head, "No it's not good, it's not dealing with it, it's just trying to forget it. And how she would do that, is to try and sleep with you. She might think that it will take away what happened, but it could potentially ruin what you have."
Eric sighed, ran his hand though his hair, "So what should I do?"
"Keep your eyes open, be there for her, and be her friend, nothing more, that's what she needs right now."
Eric stood up, nodded, and then slowly walked back to the examination room. He looked through the window, and his heart broke. Greta was curled up on the bed, in almost a fetal position. He slowly opened the door and walked up to her, "Greta?"
She jumped and turned towards him. "Hi."
"Hi. How are you?"
"Okay." He knew she was lying because he could still see the tear stains on her cheeks.
"Lexi says you can leave, and Abe wants a statement, but not today."
"Okay." She said again.
"So where do you want to go?"
She looked at him weird, "What do you mean?"
"Well I wasn't sure if you wanted to go back to the apartment, or home with your dad."
"I want to go home."
"Okay." He said softly, and he reached his hand out for her, and she jumped slightly, but then let his hand help her out of bed.
"I have to warn you, there are a lot of people concerned about you out there."
She nodded, and they both slowly walked out of the room. John rushed over to her, "Sweetheart?" He said opening his arms, and she leaned against him, allowing him to fold his arms around her. He just held her, and sighed. He looked at Eric and they had the same thought, if they could get their hands on Daniel for doing this, they would do a lot more than just punch him out.
After a few more minutes, Eric escorted her to his Jeep, then got in himself. She was extremely quiet on the ride home. He found a parking spot, and then helped her up to the apartment. Once inside, she walked back to her bedroom and shut the door. Eric sighed, went and changed his own clothes, and then knocked on her door. "Greta?"
The door opened, "Yes?"
"If you need to talk or anything, I'm here, I'm your friend above all else, remember that."
"I know, I just need to be alone for a little bit. Okay?"
"Okay, good night, I'll be in my room if you need me, okay?"
She nodded, "Good night." And then she shut the door.
Eric sighed for the millionth time that night, *Why does it seem like there is always something that gets in the way of our being happy?*
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 102
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A week had passed since Greta was attacked, she gave Abe her statement, but other than that refused to talk much about it at all. She was keeping her distance from everyone, and Eric was getting extremely worried and frustrated. She finished her exams, and was starting her winter break. Eric sat on his bed, as he wrapped the final present he had in front of him. He placed the final piece of tape, peeled off the back of the bow, and then stuck it in the middle of the gift. He put away all the rolls of paper, scissors, and tape. Then gathered up the gifts and took them out to the tree, it took three trips. *That's the thing about a big family, lots of fun to shop, and also lots of money to get gifts.* But at least it's a happy time of year, *At least it's supposed to be a happy time of year.* He thought with another sigh.
Belle and Sami decided to drag Greta out to the mall, deciding that she needed some girl talk. Sami had also promised Eric, she would corner Greta alone, and try and get her to talk about what happened, if anyone understood, Sami would.
He placed the final present under the tree, stood up and smiled, "Perfect." He then walked over to the kitchen and started to make dinner. *Two days to Christmas, maybe, just maybe I can get that ring back on her finger.* He thought as he began to cut up the vegetables. He smiled at that, *Vegetables,* before Greta it would have been rare to see them on his plate, but now, he actually really did like them. How his life had changed because of her, so much for the better. Then another loud sigh, *But why is it always something?*
Just then he heard the door open, and the three girls bound in, his heart almost leapt as he saw the joyful smile on Greta's face, that had been extremely rare lately. "So... how was shopping?" He asked as he continued chopping.
Sami answered, as Greta took some bags back into her bedroom. "Great. I think we got all our Christmas shopping done, for everyone." Eric started to move to look in the bags, but Belle shooed him away. "Yes, including you."
Belle laughed, "I can't wait for you to see what I got you." She looked down at her bags, then walked back to Greta's bedroom, "Greta, I have one of your bags..."
Eric looked at Sami, and Sami moved closer, "Did you talk to her?" He asked.
Sami nodded, "Chole showed up and while her and Belle did some shopping I got her to talk a little." Eric motioned for her to continue, and Sami looked over his shoulder to make sure they were still back in Greta's bedroom. "She's still really shaken about it, and she actually blames herself for what happened."
"What?"
"She thinks she should have saw it coming, and that you were right... and all kinds of stuff like that. She's feeling very unsure about herself. From what mom says, it's all typical, but she's still working on it."
Eric nodded, "Can you please keep trying to get her to talk?"
Sami smiled, "No problem, is there anything I wouldn't do for you? Besides, Greta's my friend, I'm there for her, we all are."
He hugged her tight. "Hey, how are you doing by the way?"
He gave a half smile, "I'm okay." She gave him that look that told him she knew he was lying. "Okay, okay. I'm worried about her, and us. She just won't let me get that close to her..." He stopped as he heard them coming back from the bedroom. "So, have you had dinner yet?" He asked them all. Sami gave him another look, telling him she wasn't through with him yet. And Eric nodded in acknowledgment.
"Nope," Belle answered, "But I have to get home for dinner.
"And I'm meeting Brandon at the Pub."
"Well then it's just the two of us." Greta said, and then went over and gave Belle and Sami a big hug good bye and helped them out the door. Dinner was made in almost silence, except for the occasional question from Eric, and the single sentence response from her. Dinner was basically the same, as they sat watching TV.
Eric watched her put down her plate, shut off the TV and then turned to her.
Greta turned to him, "What?"
"Greta, please, talk to me. If not about what happened, then something else." She sat there, like a deer in the headlights, not sure what to do. He slowly, reached out his hand for hers, and watched her as he did so. Slowly he took her hand into his, and realizing she wasn't pulling away, he lightly caressed her hand with his fingers. He watched her eyes, and saw the cloud in them, tears threatening to spill over.
"Greta... I'm here, just talk to me, tell me what is going on in your head." He saw her lips quivering slightly. "I'll just listen, I will never judge you for what you think or feel. Remember, I'm your friend, and I love you." With that the tears just feel down her cheeks, but she didn't brush them away. He took a chance, and he very lightly pulled her hand towards him. Allowing her to decide to break away, or go with it. *Go with it,* his heart begged her.
She looked as if she was trying to decide what she wanted to do, indecision clearly written on her face. He waited for her, he would wait how ever long she needed, but luckily he wouldn't have to wait that long. Because a few seconds later, she basically threw herself into his arms, tears soaking through his shirt. His arms slowly wrapped around her, holding her, but not to tightly. He stroked her hair, and back, just letting her cry. His heart breaking from her sobs, but also mending because she finally let him hold her once again. He knew it was a turning point, hopefully things would get better once again.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 103
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eric held her for a long time, as she continued to cry, but slowly the tears started to slow, and the sniffles started to lessen, and soon she picked her head up from his chest, and looked up into his eyes. "I love you too." She said very softly, and he gave a small smile in response.
He softly pushed some hair from her face, and placing it behind her ear, and then she did something he didn't expect. She kissed him, softly, gently, and he allowed her to continue. She broke away slightly, and then looked him in the eyes. He softly touched her cheek, trying to figure out what was going on in that pretty little head of hers. But then she did it again, softly at first, but then the kiss grew in intensity, and he knew this was not supposed to happen. She moved closer to him, moving over him, straddling his lap, wrapping her arms around him, her tongue entering his mouth.
Eric's mind was in between pure enjoyment, and extreme panic. *This shouldn't be happening.* Her hands moved to his shirt, and was unbuttoning the front, and then moved her hands under his shirt to his chest. Her mouth moved to his neck, her hot breath and lips on his skin. His mind was becoming cloudy, but then, he lightly grabbed her hands and pulled back. "Greta."
She sat up and looked at him, slightly out of breath, "What?"
"Think about this..."
"I want you."
He closed his eyes, and took a deep breath. "Why?"
She looked at him confused for a minute, "What do you mean why?"
"With everything that has happened, and us barely talking since, why do you want me so much all of a sudden?" He asked her softly, gently. He wasn't accusing her, he just wanted to hear what she was thinking.
"You don't want me." She said standing up quickly and moving back towards her bedroom.
Eric stood up quickly and followed her, "Greta, that has nothing to do with it, you should be able to tell how much I want you." She blushed slightly. "God Greta, I want you so much, I lay it bed at night, missing you so much, it hurts. I miss you laying next to me every night, I miss making love to you, but most of all I miss you. You, the person I talk to, and listen to, and everything."
She walked back up to him, but her hands on his chest, "Then stop missing me," she said as she kissed him again, pulling him into his bedroom. His feet followed her, but once in his room he stopped, and took her hands again. "Greta, stop. I know you really don't want to do this."
Her eyes changed, and she looked angry. "You want me, and then you don't want me. Which is it?"
"Greta... listen to yourself."
"What is wrong with me wanting you? What is wrong with me wanting sex? Is there something wrong with that?"
Eric sat on the bed, and lightly pulled her down next to him. "No, there is nothing wrong with you wanting any of that. But your reasons right now, aren't the reasons they should be, and you know it." She was about ready to get up and storm out, but her held onto her wrist. He wouldn't be forceful, he knew that was the last thing she needed, but it stopped her. "You want me to erase what happened, you want me to replace him, and you want me to make it all better. I can't do that Greta. I don't want what we have together, to have anything to do with what happened. And you don't either." He saw his words were working their way into her brain. "Greta, when we 'make love' again, I want us to okay again. Mostly I want you to be okay again. I'm willing to wait forever if I have too. But we can't have 'sex' and just erase what happened, it doesn't work that way. And you know that."
She leaned into his chest, "You're right." He wrapped his arms around her, and she did the same, and he could barely hear her next words. "You're always right."
He pulled away from her slightly, "What did you say." She looked down not wanting to meet his eyes, "Greta, what did you say?"
"I said you are always right."
His mother and Lexi were right, but they never said she would go through all the phases they told him about, and he never dreamed them happening so closely together. "I'm not always right."
"Yes you are, you were right not to trust Daniel, and I did. I never should have, I should have just listened to you, from now on I should. I don't know what to do, I'm not good at reading people."
Eric smiled, and then laughed. Greta looked up at him in shock. "Greta, do you have any idea how wrong you are? I have one word for you... Nicole." She looked at him confused for a minute. "How long did I fall for everything she told me. And then, even when I didn't trust her, I still trusted her way to much, and look how much she affected us. We almost completely broke up because of her. And you were right all along not to trust her. Maybe we are both just better at seeing what people of the same sex are really about than the opposite sex."
She smiled slightly. "Greta, no one else thought Daniel was bad. All your friends and classmates thought he was great. I never thought he would do that either, I just thought he wanted you for his girlfriend, never..." he just let it trail off as he felt her shiver in his arms.
She then took a deep breath, "I sorry about all this." She told him quietly.
"Why, it's not your fault at all Greta. None of this was your fault. And just so you know, that night, you were right about the fighting. I have no right telling you who you can and can't see. And I do trust you, I trust you more than anyone."
"But if I only would have listened..."
"Greta, you can't ask what ifs. I mean, I ask so many of those, it scares me. I am just so glad your friend dropped off your book that night." He felt her shiver again. "Sorry."
"It's okay, and if I haven't told you, or told you enough. Thank you."
"For what?" He asked confused, not sure what she was thanking him for.
"Thank you for saving me, thank you for taking care of me, for letting me have my space, and being so very understanding."
He smiled, "No need to thank me, I love you, and as long as you love me. It's all I will ever need."
She smiled, leaned up and gave him a soft kiss. "I have a small favor to ask."
"Anything," he answered.
"Can I sleep in here with you tonight..." She cut him off as he was about to respond, "Pajama's and everything, and mostly I just want to be in your arms again, and talk through the night."
He smiled, and nodded his head. She smiled, jumped up, and ran into her bedroom to change. He stood up and changed into his actual one pair of pajamas. He usually slept in his boxers, but her knew, that tonight, it would be better to be fully clothed. He then walked over to the bed, got under the covers, and smiled. He knew it was a huge step, and it was almost like he could feel the future coming together once again for them. His smile grew larger as he saw her come back in her favorite blue cotton PJ's. She slowly moved to the bed, and under the covers. He turned to face her, and she faced him, their usual way of laying in bed and talking to one another, and that's what they did, for hours.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 104
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
They talked through the night, and into the early morning. Eric felt extremely tired while he was at work, but the feeling he had inside kept him going. He was feeling wonderful, he just knew that everything was going to turn out perfectly for them, and soon he would have that ring back on her finger.
A couple days passed, and it was Christmas morning. Eric and Greta had agreed to wait and open presents with everyone at the Blacks this year. Especially since this would be the first year Greta and John would be spending Christmas together as Father and Daughter. They both had their arms full of presents, and bags hanging from their fingers, as they walked out of the elevator. They looked at each other as they made it to the door, "Who's going to knock?" Eric asked.
"My hands are full." She said with a smile.
Eric laughed, "Well so are mine, should we just shout?" Greta shook her head, turned around, and back kicked the door lightly with her foot. "Classy." Eric said with a smile.
A few seconds later, Belle was opening the door. "It worked," Greta said as she made it in the door, with Belle hurrying to help with all the gifts.
John and Marlena made it into the room, just as Brady was walking down the stairs yawning. "Well, as soon as Sami gets here, we can eat breakfast."
Belle moaned, "Dad why can't we open presents first?"
Marlena smiled, as John talked, "Because if we open them first, you will be playing, or trying on, or whatever you do with your new stuff, and then never eat breakfast."
"Oh come on, Dad, why can't we?" Greta said looking up at him, batting her eyes. Belle came over and followed suit, smiling at Greta.
John looked down at the two of them, both going, "Daddy, pleaseeee." Marlena and Eric were trying to keep their giggles in check.
John shook his head, "How can I say no to this?" He said holding up his hands. "Okay, okay, once Sami gets here we will open presents, but we then HAVE to have breakfast."
"We promise," they said in unison, gave him a big hug, and then winked at each other.
"They are definitely sisters," Brady said as he walked past Marlena and Eric.
"Yep, and they have their dad wrapped around their little finger." Marlena said as she walked to the door, after hearing the door bell.
"Sami!" Belle yelled as she ran over to the door, to greet her.
Greta walked over to Eric, "She is certainly cheerful today."
Eric grinned, "Did you see how many presents under that tree have her name on it? I think you would be happy at her age too. Besides, what was all that about?" He said his eyes twinkling at her.
Greta laughed, "Hey, can't I take the side of my sister every once in awhile?"
Eric just shook his head, and they walked over to the tree, as did everyone else, to exchange presents.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wrapping paper, bows, bags, and boxers were scattered all over the floor. Brady was looking under the tree, "Well that looks like that's it. No more presents. Sorry Belle." He said teasing her. Everyone laughed.
"I think I can handle that, besides, Mimi, Chole, Philip, Shawn and I still have gifts to exchange." Brady just shook his head at her.
"Okay, now breakfast, and remember you promised." John said, starting to get up from the couch.
Eric spoke up, "Actually, everything hasn't been opened yet."
"There's nothing left under the tree." Sami said looking at him, with Will in her lap playing with one of his new toys.
"Well, it's not under the tree." He admitted, he moved closer to Greta. "And even though it's a present for you, depending on your answer, it's really a gift for me." He propped himself on his knees and faced Greta. Everyone got really quiet, as they realized what was going to happen. "We have been through, a lot together, but somehow we have made it through everything. Greta, I love you, I love you more every single day, and I want to spend the rest of my life with you." Tears started to run down her cheeks as he continued. "Please give me the best gift of all by becoming my wife. Greta, will you marry me?"
"Oh Eric," She said, as she wiped away the tears, "I already told you my answer in Paris. Of course I'll marry you." He smiled and placed the ring back on her finger. She took his face in her hands, and leaned in, "I love you." Then she kissed him.
Marlena leaned in to John, and they hugged. Everyone else smiled at the two of them. "Congratulations, again." John said standing up, "But this isn't going to get you out of breakfast." Everyone laughed and headed into the dinning room.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 105
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
After breakfast everyone sat around in the living room, looking at their gifts, and just generally talking. "So, when do you think you guys want to get married?" Marlena asked them.
"Soon!" Eric said before Greta could answer.
Greta smiled, "Why? We do need time to plan everything."
"Oh no, I would say we should get married in under a month."
"What?" Marlena, Greta and even Belle said in unison, and Greta continued, "That's not enough time. Besides, what's the hurry?"
"It's plenty of time, we have put on beautiful weddings in under a week. And besides, it seems like something always happens before weddings to stop them, and I want to make sure nothing bad will happen. This town just doesn't seem to like weddings."
"I have to agree with that one," John said, "Remember how many times we tried to get married Doc?"
"Besides," Eric said taking Greta's hand and having her lean back against him on the couch. "I don't want to wait that long to make you Mrs. Brady."
Greta smiled and leaned up and kissed him. "Okay, mid January it is then. Oye, we have a lot of work ahead of us." She said with smiles to Marlena, Sami, and Belle.
"Don't worry about a thing, we already have a lot of things picked out anyway." Marlena said.
"Yeah, but most of those were picked out for spring, not winter." Greta reminded her.
"Oh, true. Well, we will get it all together, besides you still have about 2 weeks of break left."
"Oh no, Eric, what about classes?" Greta said looking up at him, "What about the honeymoon?"
Eric thought about it for a minute. "Well you don't go back to class till the 16th, we could have the wedding before then." He interrupted her, "That's more than 2 weeks to get everything together. And I promise I'll help."
Greta looked at Marlena, and Sami. "Do you think we can pull it off, and still make it really nice?"
"I'm sure we can, but we should start... now." Sami said with a smile. Everyone laughed, but actually, the girls did get up and started to make lists of stuff to do, where to go, and everything.
"Just let me know what you need me to do." Eric told them, and he was surprised when he got a very long list a few minutes later. *Oh boy, what did I ask for?*
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Time flew by, or at least it seemed like it did. All the planning, fittings, shopping, reservations and everything was a huge amount of work, especially in the amount of time they had. Greta almost gave up, when they found out the church was already booked for the day they needed it, as a matter of fact, the whole week was booked. But they decided on something less traditional then. And in actuality it would be even more beautiful. They decided to rent out a part of Salem Park for the day, and set up very large, heated tents. Greta loved the idea, because it reminded her of what Eric had done for their first real date together. In fact so much time had passed, that the wedding was tomorrow afternoon.
John stood up at one of the tables, that many family members and friends were gathered around at Tuscany. "We all know why we are here today, tomorrow we and many others will be attending the Wedding of Eric Brady, and my daughter Greta Von Amburg." There were cheers around the few tables, with blushes resulting on both Eric and Greta's faces. "I'm not going to give a long speech tonight, that's what tomorrow is for. But I just want to say, that we have all watched the two of you since you two met. And we have known for a long time, just how happy you both would be together. So here's to a lifetime of happiness for the happy couple."
Everyone raised their glasses, clinked them together, and took a drink, toasting them. Greta leaned her head against Eric's shoulder. He grabbed her hand, kissed it, then leaned down to her, kissing her softly. "Just think, this time tomorrow..."
She smiled, "We will be Mr. and Mrs. Eric Brady." He smiled, and leaned in and kissed her again. The two then went out on the dance floor.
Mrs. Horton turned to Hope, "Just look at the love between the two of them."
Hope smiled, "Yeah, young love. But I think with them two it will last a long, long time."
Other couples moved out onto the dance floor as well, trading off partners every so often so everyone got a chance to dance and talk. But soon, the two were back dancing together. "We better relax we are going to be doing a whole lot of dancing tomorrow." Eric reminded Greta.
"Yeah, and it's getting late, we both need to get some sleep."
"Should we say our good-bye's and then leave?"
Greta smiled and shook her head, "No, remember I'm staying at your mom's penthouse, remember."
"Why? Just come home, sleep in your own bed."
"No, it's bad luck to see the bride before the wedding. Besides, I am going to get ready there in the morning, it will just be easier." Eric sighed, "Hey," she continued, "We have the rest of our lives together, I think you can handle one night apart."
"Okay, okay. But you better be there tomorrow, and nothing had better go wrong."
She smiled, "I can't promise nothing will go wrong."
He had a shocked look on his face, "What do you mean, what's going to go wrong?"
Greta patted his shoulder, "Eric, I don't know, but you seem to think something will. I was just thinking, the band not showing up, or the caterer serving the wrong food. Nothing big."
He sighed in relief, "Oh, okay. That I could handle."
She brought his head down, and kissed him. "I'm going to go find Marlena and my dad, and get out of here, so I can get my beauty sleep." He kissed her again. "And I will see you tomorrow, my love."
He hugged her tight, not wanting to let her go. "Good night my love." They kissed once more, and soon Greta was out the door.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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 101
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eric finished telling Abe what he knew happened, "And then that's where you came in." He told him.
Abe sighed, "Okay, thanks Eric. If I have anything else, I'll let you know, unfortunately I will have to talk to Greta at some point."
Eric nodded, and then looked up to see Lexi come out. "How is she?" He asked walking up to her, John right on his heals.
Lexi folded her arms in front of her, "Well, she has a nasty bruise over her eye, a couple broken ribs, and other small bruises and scratches."
"Can I see her?" Eric asked her pleading.
"Yeah," He started to walk off, but she grabbed his arm. "Eric."
"Yes?"
She sighed, "She can go home, or where ever she wants, but..." She sighed again, "She is really upset, and she was very jumpy with me examining her."
"I understand," he said starting to walk again.
Then Marlena stopped him, "No, I don't think you do."
"What are you saying mom?"
"You need to be prepared for some possibilities."
"Like what?" Eric said looking worried.
Lexi and Marlena dragged him back over to the chairs to talk to him. Marlena started, "Well she might not even agree to go back to the apartment, she may feel better coming home with me and John."
Eric sighed, "Okay. But she might go back home with me right?"
Lexi nodded, "She might, it is her home, and she might feel safe there. But there is a lot you need to know. There are typically three behaviors, at least, that she might exhibit because of this... attempted.. rape."
Marlena continued, "Well, she can become very jumpy, especially when touched, and around men in general, and from what Lexi said before, that seems like the case. It will take time for her to relax, and get her 'safety' back."
Lexi chimed in, "She could also try and use you as a safety measure, which is fine to an extent, you don't want her to become to dependent. And this could also lead into her bottling it all up and not dealing with what happened, just trying to get everything back to normal."
Marlena, followed, "And since you and her had a fight before hand, she may try to ignore the fight, or agree that you where right, and then not trust herself to make her own decisions, which isn't good either."
"Or there is the other extreme, of the first one," Lexi continued, "She may want to purge the experience from her mind."
Eric looked at her confused, "Well that's good, isn't it? How would she do that?"
Marlena shook her head, "No it's not good, it's not dealing with it, it's just trying to forget it. And how she would do that, is to try and sleep with you. She might think that it will take away what happened, but it could potentially ruin what you have."
Eric sighed, ran his hand though his hair, "So what should I do?"
"Keep your eyes open, be there for her, and be her friend, nothing more, that's what she needs right now."
Eric stood up, nodded, and then slowly walked back to the examination room. He looked through the window, and his heart broke. Greta was curled up on the bed, in almost a fetal position. He slowly opened the door and walked up to her, "Greta?"
She jumped and turned towards him. "Hi."
"Hi. How are you?"
"Okay." He knew she was lying because he could still see the tear stains on her cheeks.
"Lexi says you can leave, and Abe wants a statement, but not today."
"Okay." She said again.
"So where do you want to go?"
She looked at him weird, "What do you mean?"
"Well I wasn't sure if you wanted to go back to the apartment, or home with your dad."
"I want to go home."
"Okay." He said softly, and he reached his hand out for her, and she jumped slightly, but then let his hand help her out of bed.
"I have to warn you, there are a lot of people concerned about you out there."
She nodded, and they both slowly walked out of the room. John rushed over to her, "Sweetheart?" He said opening his arms, and she leaned against him, allowing him to fold his arms around her. He just held her, and sighed. He looked at Eric and they had the same thought, if they could get their hands on Daniel for doing this, they would do a lot more than just punch him out.
After a few more minutes, Eric escorted her to his Jeep, then got in himself. She was extremely quiet on the ride home. He found a parking spot, and then helped her up to the apartment. Once inside, she walked back to her bedroom and shut the door. Eric sighed, went and changed his own clothes, and then knocked on her door. "Greta?"
The door opened, "Yes?"
"If you need to talk or anything, I'm here, I'm your friend above all else, remember that."
"I know, I just need to be alone for a little bit. Okay?"
"Okay, good night, I'll be in my room if you need me, okay?"
She nodded, "Good night." And then she shut the door.
Eric sighed for the millionth time that night, *Why does it seem like there is always something that gets in the way of our being happy?*
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 102
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A week had passed since Greta was attacked, she gave Abe her statement, but other than that refused to talk much about it at all. She was keeping her distance from everyone, and Eric was getting extremely worried and frustrated. She finished her exams, and was starting her winter break. Eric sat on his bed, as he wrapped the final present he had in front of him. He placed the final piece of tape, peeled off the back of the bow, and then stuck it in the middle of the gift. He put away all the rolls of paper, scissors, and tape. Then gathered up the gifts and took them out to the tree, it took three trips. *That's the thing about a big family, lots of fun to shop, and also lots of money to get gifts.* But at least it's a happy time of year, *At least it's supposed to be a happy time of year.* He thought with another sigh.
Belle and Sami decided to drag Greta out to the mall, deciding that she needed some girl talk. Sami had also promised Eric, she would corner Greta alone, and try and get her to talk about what happened, if anyone understood, Sami would.
He placed the final present under the tree, stood up and smiled, "Perfect." He then walked over to the kitchen and started to make dinner. *Two days to Christmas, maybe, just maybe I can get that ring back on her finger.* He thought as he began to cut up the vegetables. He smiled at that, *Vegetables,* before Greta it would have been rare to see them on his plate, but now, he actually really did like them. How his life had changed because of her, so much for the better. Then another loud sigh, *But why is it always something?*
Just then he heard the door open, and the three girls bound in, his heart almost leapt as he saw the joyful smile on Greta's face, that had been extremely rare lately. "So... how was shopping?" He asked as he continued chopping.
Sami answered, as Greta took some bags back into her bedroom. "Great. I think we got all our Christmas shopping done, for everyone." Eric started to move to look in the bags, but Belle shooed him away. "Yes, including you."
Belle laughed, "I can't wait for you to see what I got you." She looked down at her bags, then walked back to Greta's bedroom, "Greta, I have one of your bags..."
Eric looked at Sami, and Sami moved closer, "Did you talk to her?" He asked.
Sami nodded, "Chole showed up and while her and Belle did some shopping I got her to talk a little." Eric motioned for her to continue, and Sami looked over his shoulder to make sure they were still back in Greta's bedroom. "She's still really shaken about it, and she actually blames herself for what happened."
"What?"
"She thinks she should have saw it coming, and that you were right... and all kinds of stuff like that. She's feeling very unsure about herself. From what mom says, it's all typical, but she's still working on it."
Eric nodded, "Can you please keep trying to get her to talk?"
Sami smiled, "No problem, is there anything I wouldn't do for you? Besides, Greta's my friend, I'm there for her, we all are."
He hugged her tight. "Hey, how are you doing by the way?"
He gave a half smile, "I'm okay." She gave him that look that told him she knew he was lying. "Okay, okay. I'm worried about her, and us. She just won't let me get that close to her..." He stopped as he heard them coming back from the bedroom. "So, have you had dinner yet?" He asked them all. Sami gave him another look, telling him she wasn't through with him yet. And Eric nodded in acknowledgment.
"Nope," Belle answered, "But I have to get home for dinner.
"And I'm meeting Brandon at the Pub."
"Well then it's just the two of us." Greta said, and then went over and gave Belle and Sami a big hug good bye and helped them out the door. Dinner was made in almost silence, except for the occasional question from Eric, and the single sentence response from her. Dinner was basically the same, as they sat watching TV.
Eric watched her put down her plate, shut off the TV and then turned to her.
Greta turned to him, "What?"
"Greta, please, talk to me. If not about what happened, then something else." She sat there, like a deer in the headlights, not sure what to do. He slowly, reached out his hand for hers, and watched her as he did so. Slowly he took her hand into his, and realizing she wasn't pulling away, he lightly caressed her hand with his fingers. He watched her eyes, and saw the cloud in them, tears threatening to spill over.
"Greta... I'm here, just talk to me, tell me what is going on in your head." He saw her lips quivering slightly. "I'll just listen, I will never judge you for what you think or feel. Remember, I'm your friend, and I love you." With that the tears just feel down her cheeks, but she didn't brush them away. He took a chance, and he very lightly pulled her hand towards him. Allowing her to decide to break away, or go with it. *Go with it,* his heart begged her.
She looked as if she was trying to decide what she wanted to do, indecision clearly written on her face. He waited for her, he would wait how ever long she needed, but luckily he wouldn't have to wait that long. Because a few seconds later, she basically threw herself into his arms, tears soaking through his shirt. His arms slowly wrapped around her, holding her, but not to tightly. He stroked her hair, and back, just letting her cry. His heart breaking from her sobs, but also mending because she finally let him hold her once again. He knew it was a turning point, hopefully things would get better once again.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 103
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eric held her for a long time, as she continued to cry, but slowly the tears started to slow, and the sniffles started to lessen, and soon she picked her head up from his chest, and looked up into his eyes. "I love you too." She said very softly, and he gave a small smile in response.
He softly pushed some hair from her face, and placing it behind her ear, and then she did something he didn't expect. She kissed him, softly, gently, and he allowed her to continue. She broke away slightly, and then looked him in the eyes. He softly touched her cheek, trying to figure out what was going on in that pretty little head of hers. But then she did it again, softly at first, but then the kiss grew in intensity, and he knew this was not supposed to happen. She moved closer to him, moving over him, straddling his lap, wrapping her arms around him, her tongue entering his mouth.
Eric's mind was in between pure enjoyment, and extreme panic. *This shouldn't be happening.* Her hands moved to his shirt, and was unbuttoning the front, and then moved her hands under his shirt to his chest. Her mouth moved to his neck, her hot breath and lips on his skin. His mind was becoming cloudy, but then, he lightly grabbed her hands and pulled back. "Greta."
She sat up and looked at him, slightly out of breath, "What?"
"Think about this..."
"I want you."
He closed his eyes, and took a deep breath. "Why?"
She looked at him confused for a minute, "What do you mean why?"
"With everything that has happened, and us barely talking since, why do you want me so much all of a sudden?" He asked her softly, gently. He wasn't accusing her, he just wanted to hear what she was thinking.
"You don't want me." She said standing up quickly and moving back towards her bedroom.
Eric stood up quickly and followed her, "Greta, that has nothing to do with it, you should be able to tell how much I want you." She blushed slightly. "God Greta, I want you so much, I lay it bed at night, missing you so much, it hurts. I miss you laying next to me every night, I miss making love to you, but most of all I miss you. You, the person I talk to, and listen to, and everything."
She walked back up to him, but her hands on his chest, "Then stop missing me," she said as she kissed him again, pulling him into his bedroom. His feet followed her, but once in his room he stopped, and took her hands again. "Greta, stop. I know you really don't want to do this."
Her eyes changed, and she looked angry. "You want me, and then you don't want me. Which is it?"
"Greta... listen to yourself."
"What is wrong with me wanting you? What is wrong with me wanting sex? Is there something wrong with that?"
Eric sat on the bed, and lightly pulled her down next to him. "No, there is nothing wrong with you wanting any of that. But your reasons right now, aren't the reasons they should be, and you know it." She was about ready to get up and storm out, but her held onto her wrist. He wouldn't be forceful, he knew that was the last thing she needed, but it stopped her. "You want me to erase what happened, you want me to replace him, and you want me to make it all better. I can't do that Greta. I don't want what we have together, to have anything to do with what happened. And you don't either." He saw his words were working their way into her brain. "Greta, when we 'make love' again, I want us to okay again. Mostly I want you to be okay again. I'm willing to wait forever if I have too. But we can't have 'sex' and just erase what happened, it doesn't work that way. And you know that."
She leaned into his chest, "You're right." He wrapped his arms around her, and she did the same, and he could barely hear her next words. "You're always right."
He pulled away from her slightly, "What did you say." She looked down not wanting to meet his eyes, "Greta, what did you say?"
"I said you are always right."
His mother and Lexi were right, but they never said she would go through all the phases they told him about, and he never dreamed them happening so closely together. "I'm not always right."
"Yes you are, you were right not to trust Daniel, and I did. I never should have, I should have just listened to you, from now on I should. I don't know what to do, I'm not good at reading people."
Eric smiled, and then laughed. Greta looked up at him in shock. "Greta, do you have any idea how wrong you are? I have one word for you... Nicole." She looked at him confused for a minute. "How long did I fall for everything she told me. And then, even when I didn't trust her, I still trusted her way to much, and look how much she affected us. We almost completely broke up because of her. And you were right all along not to trust her. Maybe we are both just better at seeing what people of the same sex are really about than the opposite sex."
She smiled slightly. "Greta, no one else thought Daniel was bad. All your friends and classmates thought he was great. I never thought he would do that either, I just thought he wanted you for his girlfriend, never..." he just let it trail off as he felt her shiver in his arms.
She then took a deep breath, "I sorry about all this." She told him quietly.
"Why, it's not your fault at all Greta. None of this was your fault. And just so you know, that night, you were right about the fighting. I have no right telling you who you can and can't see. And I do trust you, I trust you more than anyone."
"But if I only would have listened..."
"Greta, you can't ask what ifs. I mean, I ask so many of those, it scares me. I am just so glad your friend dropped off your book that night." He felt her shiver again. "Sorry."
"It's okay, and if I haven't told you, or told you enough. Thank you."
"For what?" He asked confused, not sure what she was thanking him for.
"Thank you for saving me, thank you for taking care of me, for letting me have my space, and being so very understanding."
He smiled, "No need to thank me, I love you, and as long as you love me. It's all I will ever need."
She smiled, leaned up and gave him a soft kiss. "I have a small favor to ask."
"Anything," he answered.
"Can I sleep in here with you tonight..." She cut him off as he was about to respond, "Pajama's and everything, and mostly I just want to be in your arms again, and talk through the night."
He smiled, and nodded his head. She smiled, jumped up, and ran into her bedroom to change. He stood up and changed into his actual one pair of pajamas. He usually slept in his boxers, but her knew, that tonight, it would be better to be fully clothed. He then walked over to the bed, got under the covers, and smiled. He knew it was a huge step, and it was almost like he could feel the future coming together once again for them. His smile grew larger as he saw her come back in her favorite blue cotton PJ's. She slowly moved to the bed, and under the covers. He turned to face her, and she faced him, their usual way of laying in bed and talking to one another, and that's what they did, for hours.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 104
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
They talked through the night, and into the early morning. Eric felt extremely tired while he was at work, but the feeling he had inside kept him going. He was feeling wonderful, he just knew that everything was going to turn out perfectly for them, and soon he would have that ring back on her finger.
A couple days passed, and it was Christmas morning. Eric and Greta had agreed to wait and open presents with everyone at the Blacks this year. Especially since this would be the first year Greta and John would be spending Christmas together as Father and Daughter. They both had their arms full of presents, and bags hanging from their fingers, as they walked out of the elevator. They looked at each other as they made it to the door, "Who's going to knock?" Eric asked.
"My hands are full." She said with a smile.
Eric laughed, "Well so are mine, should we just shout?" Greta shook her head, turned around, and back kicked the door lightly with her foot. "Classy." Eric said with a smile.
A few seconds later, Belle was opening the door. "It worked," Greta said as she made it in the door, with Belle hurrying to help with all the gifts.
John and Marlena made it into the room, just as Brady was walking down the stairs yawning. "Well, as soon as Sami gets here, we can eat breakfast."
Belle moaned, "Dad why can't we open presents first?"
Marlena smiled, as John talked, "Because if we open them first, you will be playing, or trying on, or whatever you do with your new stuff, and then never eat breakfast."
"Oh come on, Dad, why can't we?" Greta said looking up at him, batting her eyes. Belle came over and followed suit, smiling at Greta.
John looked down at the two of them, both going, "Daddy, pleaseeee." Marlena and Eric were trying to keep their giggles in check.
John shook his head, "How can I say no to this?" He said holding up his hands. "Okay, okay, once Sami gets here we will open presents, but we then HAVE to have breakfast."
"We promise," they said in unison, gave him a big hug, and then winked at each other.
"They are definitely sisters," Brady said as he walked past Marlena and Eric.
"Yep, and they have their dad wrapped around their little finger." Marlena said as she walked to the door, after hearing the door bell.
"Sami!" Belle yelled as she ran over to the door, to greet her.
Greta walked over to Eric, "She is certainly cheerful today."
Eric grinned, "Did you see how many presents under that tree have her name on it? I think you would be happy at her age too. Besides, what was all that about?" He said his eyes twinkling at her.
Greta laughed, "Hey, can't I take the side of my sister every once in awhile?"
Eric just shook his head, and they walked over to the tree, as did everyone else, to exchange presents.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wrapping paper, bows, bags, and boxers were scattered all over the floor. Brady was looking under the tree, "Well that looks like that's it. No more presents. Sorry Belle." He said teasing her. Everyone laughed.
"I think I can handle that, besides, Mimi, Chole, Philip, Shawn and I still have gifts to exchange." Brady just shook his head at her.
"Okay, now breakfast, and remember you promised." John said, starting to get up from the couch.
Eric spoke up, "Actually, everything hasn't been opened yet."
"There's nothing left under the tree." Sami said looking at him, with Will in her lap playing with one of his new toys.
"Well, it's not under the tree." He admitted, he moved closer to Greta. "And even though it's a present for you, depending on your answer, it's really a gift for me." He propped himself on his knees and faced Greta. Everyone got really quiet, as they realized what was going to happen. "We have been through, a lot together, but somehow we have made it through everything. Greta, I love you, I love you more every single day, and I want to spend the rest of my life with you." Tears started to run down her cheeks as he continued. "Please give me the best gift of all by becoming my wife. Greta, will you marry me?"
"Oh Eric," She said, as she wiped away the tears, "I already told you my answer in Paris. Of course I'll marry you." He smiled and placed the ring back on her finger. She took his face in her hands, and leaned in, "I love you." Then she kissed him.
Marlena leaned in to John, and they hugged. Everyone else smiled at the two of them. "Congratulations, again." John said standing up, "But this isn't going to get you out of breakfast." Everyone laughed and headed into the dinning room.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 105
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
After breakfast everyone sat around in the living room, looking at their gifts, and just generally talking. "So, when do you think you guys want to get married?" Marlena asked them.
"Soon!" Eric said before Greta could answer.
Greta smiled, "Why? We do need time to plan everything."
"Oh no, I would say we should get married in under a month."
"What?" Marlena, Greta and even Belle said in unison, and Greta continued, "That's not enough time. Besides, what's the hurry?"
"It's plenty of time, we have put on beautiful weddings in under a week. And besides, it seems like something always happens before weddings to stop them, and I want to make sure nothing bad will happen. This town just doesn't seem to like weddings."
"I have to agree with that one," John said, "Remember how many times we tried to get married Doc?"
"Besides," Eric said taking Greta's hand and having her lean back against him on the couch. "I don't want to wait that long to make you Mrs. Brady."
Greta smiled and leaned up and kissed him. "Okay, mid January it is then. Oye, we have a lot of work ahead of us." She said with smiles to Marlena, Sami, and Belle.
"Don't worry about a thing, we already have a lot of things picked out anyway." Marlena said.
"Yeah, but most of those were picked out for spring, not winter." Greta reminded her.
"Oh, true. Well, we will get it all together, besides you still have about 2 weeks of break left."
"Oh no, Eric, what about classes?" Greta said looking up at him, "What about the honeymoon?"
Eric thought about it for a minute. "Well you don't go back to class till the 16th, we could have the wedding before then." He interrupted her, "That's more than 2 weeks to get everything together. And I promise I'll help."
Greta looked at Marlena, and Sami. "Do you think we can pull it off, and still make it really nice?"
"I'm sure we can, but we should start... now." Sami said with a smile. Everyone laughed, but actually, the girls did get up and started to make lists of stuff to do, where to go, and everything.
"Just let me know what you need me to do." Eric told them, and he was surprised when he got a very long list a few minutes later. *Oh boy, what did I ask for?*
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Time flew by, or at least it seemed like it did. All the planning, fittings, shopping, reservations and everything was a huge amount of work, especially in the amount of time they had. Greta almost gave up, when they found out the church was already booked for the day they needed it, as a matter of fact, the whole week was booked. But they decided on something less traditional then. And in actuality it would be even more beautiful. They decided to rent out a part of Salem Park for the day, and set up very large, heated tents. Greta loved the idea, because it reminded her of what Eric had done for their first real date together. In fact so much time had passed, that the wedding was tomorrow afternoon.
John stood up at one of the tables, that many family members and friends were gathered around at Tuscany. "We all know why we are here today, tomorrow we and many others will be attending the Wedding of Eric Brady, and my daughter Greta Von Amburg." There were cheers around the few tables, with blushes resulting on both Eric and Greta's faces. "I'm not going to give a long speech tonight, that's what tomorrow is for. But I just want to say, that we have all watched the two of you since you two met. And we have known for a long time, just how happy you both would be together. So here's to a lifetime of happiness for the happy couple."
Everyone raised their glasses, clinked them together, and took a drink, toasting them. Greta leaned her head against Eric's shoulder. He grabbed her hand, kissed it, then leaned down to her, kissing her softly. "Just think, this time tomorrow..."
She smiled, "We will be Mr. and Mrs. Eric Brady." He smiled, and leaned in and kissed her again. The two then went out on the dance floor.
Mrs. Horton turned to Hope, "Just look at the love between the two of them."
Hope smiled, "Yeah, young love. But I think with them two it will last a long, long time."
Other couples moved out onto the dance floor as well, trading off partners every so often so everyone got a chance to dance and talk. But soon, the two were back dancing together. "We better relax we are going to be doing a whole lot of dancing tomorrow." Eric reminded Greta.
"Yeah, and it's getting late, we both need to get some sleep."
"Should we say our good-bye's and then leave?"
Greta smiled and shook her head, "No, remember I'm staying at your mom's penthouse, remember."
"Why? Just come home, sleep in your own bed."
"No, it's bad luck to see the bride before the wedding. Besides, I am going to get ready there in the morning, it will just be easier." Eric sighed, "Hey," she continued, "We have the rest of our lives together, I think you can handle one night apart."
"Okay, okay. But you better be there tomorrow, and nothing had better go wrong."
She smiled, "I can't promise nothing will go wrong."
He had a shocked look on his face, "What do you mean, what's going to go wrong?"
Greta patted his shoulder, "Eric, I don't know, but you seem to think something will. I was just thinking, the band not showing up, or the caterer serving the wrong food. Nothing big."
He sighed in relief, "Oh, okay. That I could handle."
She brought his head down, and kissed him. "I'm going to go find Marlena and my dad, and get out of here, so I can get my beauty sleep." He kissed her again. "And I will see you tomorrow, my love."
He hugged her tight, not wanting to let her go. "Good night my love." They kissed once more, and soon Greta was out the door.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To Be Continued