Chapter Eleven
Samantha stepped off the elevator as she turned around to look at Brandon, a smile touching over her features. She reached for his hand guiding him down the hallway before they stopped in front of her apartment. Smiling up at him, she stepped up on her toes to offer a quick kiss before speaking, "You know you didn't have to walk me all the way up here."
"I wanted to make sure you got home safe," Brandon winked at her, "considering how amazing you are, you never know how many guys would be out here trying to sway you to dump me and run off to paradise with them."
"I'd have to tell them to take a number because the only paradise I'm interested in is the one I find in your arms," she leaned up to kiss him once again as he swept her up in his arms lifting her up off her toes and kissing her passionately.
"I love you, Samantha," he whispered against the kiss as he kept her in his arms holding her closer still.
"I love you, Brandon Walker," she offered reaching out to trace his lips with her index finger, "I'll always love you."
"I told you we'd have eternity together," Brandon couldn't help but smile as he gave her a light squeeze, "which reminds me, I would love to have dinner with you and Will tonight. What do you say?"
"Name the time and we'll be there," she beamed excitedly.
"How about my place?" he suggested with a hint of a smile.
"Hmm, that sounds tempting," she thought it over, "but I don't know if Will would be as enthused about being at your place as I might be?"
"Are you kidding," he smiled back at her, "I just bought an X-box and I have that new snowboarding game he's been asking about…"
"You went out and bought the snowboarding game," she gave him a curious look, "but Brandon you're not a snowboarding fan…"
"Well, what can I say," Brandon shrugged, "my little buddy was and I saw how much he wanted it before…"
"Brandon, I can't believe you did that for him," she shook her head as a happiness filled through her reaching down to the tips of her toes and up again, "I mean I know you and Will get along, but to think of doing that for him even when you and I were on the outs…"
"Will's an incredible kid," Brandon reminded her, "and just like his mother I happen to enjoy his company very much. I've been looking for an opportunity to have you both over to join in the fun and hey," he winked at her, "I even bought an extra controller for all of us to play."
"Oh Brandon," she hugged him again, "I love you so much. You're the most wonderful, amazing man I've ever met and with each passing second my love for you grows stronger and stronger. You are so thoughtful and loving…"
"It's all because I love you," Brandon whispered kissing her once again before setting her down on the ground, "your love has given me a breath of life that I never knew existed before you came along. The moment I met you was the moment when my heart awakened and I found out that true happiness was waiting for me."
"You're my happiness," she reached up to touch his face, "Brandon, I don't think I've ever been this happy."
"This is only the beginning," he promised with a bright smile, "and tonight I have something for you as well as Will."
"You do?" she questioned her eyes widening.
"That's right," he nodded eagerly, "but you'll have to wait and see what it is tonight over dinner."
"Brandon, you know how I hate waiting," she frowned slightly, "I love surprises, but the waiting…"
"It'll be worth it," he promised giving her one last kiss, "but I'd better get over to the hospital now before they start to wonder what happened to me."
"You can tell them you ran away with the woman who loves you very much," Sami smiled up at him.
"I don't have to run away anymore, Samantha," Brandon cupped her face in his hands, "because now I'm home at long last with you."
"I love you," she breathed inching up to kiss him before he took a step back and she waved watching every step he took on the way to the elevator. Smiling as he threw her one last look as the elevator doors closed, she started to realize that her life was complete and everything she'd ever wanted at long last.
"Gee look what the cat dragged in," Lucas' voice interrupted as she felt a frown building inside of her. Spinning around she saw him standing in the hallway with his arms folded in front of his chest, "looks like lover boy was looking to extend the vacation."
"Jealous Lucas?" Sami shot him a glare.
"Hardly," he rolled his eyes, "I just don't like the guy. He gives me the creeps."
"Everyone gives you the creeps which proves that you need some serious therapy Lucas," Sami shot back placing her key in the door before turning to look at him once again, "so how did Will do in getting off to school this morning?"
"He wasn't really in the mood to go as he was hoping he'd see you before he left, but Greta talked him into it after we agreed we'd take him out to breakfast," Lucas stated simply.
"Breakfast huh," Sami thought it over, "you know you're completely spoiling him Lucas."
"Can I help it if I want our son to have a nice life," Lucas challenged, "I missed out on a lot of time with him and I'd like to give him something good in this life."
"I realize that Lucas, but…" She stopped herself, "forget it. I don't want to fight with you. Besides, I thought we'd moved beyond this."
"We have," Lucas sighed shaking his head, "look I don't mean to upset you, but I'm just worried about you that's all. When you disappeared like you did and didn't call we were all worried."
"I'm sure," Sami pushed open the door to her apartment.
"No really," he followed her inside, "we all were starting to think something happened to you since trouble usually follows."
"Gee thanks and here I thought you were ready to turn over a new leaf," she tossed her keys down on the table top.
"I am, but Sami still you have to think about Will and about what your latest romantic disaster will do to him," Lucas pointed out matter of fact.
"My latest romance is anything, but a disaster and I don't need you coming in here bringing a negative vibe to my perfectly wonderful morning," she cast him a glare, "in fact, if I do recall I didn't invite you in here, now did I?"
"Look, all I'm saying…" Lucas began.
"Forget what you're saying Lucas," Sami shook her head, "I've heard it all before and truth be told I just don't want to hear it again. This time I'm very happy and I'd like to keep it that way."
"But at what price?" Lucas raised an arched brow, "Sami, I know you. You're always up to something when it comes to having a guy in your life and with Brandon Walker I get the feeling that there's another scam going on…"
"Lucas, there is no scam. This time it's the real thing. Brandon loves me for me--the good and the bad and nothing is ever going to change that. We have a bond that comes once in a life time and this time I'm not going to let that slip away."
"Sami, would you just think about what you're saying?" Lucas watched her closely as she circled around the room.
"I have thought about it and it's exactly what I want and deserve in my life," she offered matter of fact, "I'm happy and I'd like to keep it that way, so if you'll excuse me I have to go now."
"Where are you headed?"
"Basic Black," she shrugged, "not that it's any of your business, but I should report in with John since I'll be starting there soon."
"Fine," he stepped aside, "oh and while you're there if you could tell my mother…"
"I'm not telling your mother anything," Sami piped back at him, "That woman can stay far away from me and my father as far as I'm concerned."
"Fine, whatever," Lucas shook his head, "Just remember we have a conference with Will's teacher tonight at six."
"That's tonight?"
He nodded, "That's right and I'd expect you could take the time away from lover boy to be there."
"I'll be there Lucas," she huffed back at him, "now if you'll excuse me, I've got work to do," she finished stepping out of the apartment ready to face the world in Salem as life was finally finding a way to work with her instead of against her.
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Brandon stepped off of the hospital elevator making his way down the hallway whistling a tune as he thought of his dinner plans for Samantha and Will. He was certain he'd do something special as they deserved nothing less than incredible on this special night. Thinking of his plans for the future, he passed by the nurse's station spotting Brenda up ahead.
"Good morning Brenda," Brandon smiled at her.
"Brandon, it's nice to see you back again," Brenda smiled at him, "when we'd heard about you being out in that storm, there was a lot of concern about you."
"Word sure passes quick around this place, doesn't it?" Brandon couldn't help but let out a tiny laugh, "listen, do you have any messages for me?"
"Um, I think a few came in the other day," Brenda thought it over, "Lexie Carver was in asking about you the other night."
"Was there something she needed," Brandon asked curiously.
"I'm not sure," Brenda shook her head, "She and her brother came to emergency though and had a scare about the baby."
"What kind of scare," Brandon frowned in response.
"I'm not sure, but Dr. Murphy said that everything was alright," Brenda shook her head, "Still Lexie seemed awfully upset."
"Thanks Brenda," Brandon thought it over, "listen I think I'm going to just pick up my messages and then head on out since I'm not in the schedule here until tomorrow since I'm still on vacation time."
"No problem Brandon," she smiled at him before directing her attention to the new receptionist that had filled Sami's shoes. The woman had been carrying a pile of file folders before dropping them all over the floor as Brenda let out a groan, "Ugh and I thought Samantha Brady was bad."
"Hey cut her a break Brenda," Brandon warned simply, "after all I'd hate to hear you speaking about my fiancée that way."
"Your fiancée?" Brenda repeated, "you've got to be kidding me."
"Not at all," Brandon shook his head as a smile swept over his features, "Samantha and I are engaged."
"Oy!" she let out an exasperated sigh, "and just when I gave you some credit," she began as another crashing sound captured her attention and she turned to the new receptionist ready to lash out at her.
Shaking his head, Brandon realized that perhaps things would be better at Basic Black for Samantha as John didn't seem as though he'd be nearly as hard on her as Brenda was. Smiling at the thought of Samantha, Brandon went to pick up his messages as he thought of what Brenda had said about Lexie and he contemplated paying her a visit in between preparations for tonight's dinner with Samantha and Will. After all it was the least he could do for the mother of his child.
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Sami entered the office at Basic Black taking a look around as a smile swept over her features. This was so much better than the hospital and even if it meant to kissing up to John a little bit, it would be worth it in the long run if it kept her away from Brenda, the slave driver. Scanning the room's décor, she decided that the style and class that filled the air surrounding Basic Black was something that could take some getting used to, but in a very good way. Now as she stood in the center of it all, she could feel herself filled with an air of confidence that she hadn't had since she'd been working at Titan but even then thinks weren't as they were now. Somehow it just all felt like it was coming together for her.
"Oh great," A voice muttered as she spun around to see Brady standing behind her, "What are you doing here?"
"Brady," she rolled her eyes in response, "gee what no hello?"
"Gee, hello Sami," he shot back with a glare, "great to see you, so what the hell are you doing here?"
"Blunt aren't you," she shook her head, "you know you should really work on that anger management because it's going to get you into big trouble down the line if you don't watch yourself."
"Ah yes, this is something I never thought I'd see," he let out a tiny chuckle, "I'm being given a lesson on manners from Salem's super brat," he continued to laugh, "now this is priceless."
"Look Brady, I didn't come here to deal with you," she began.
"Then why are you here? To harass my father in between your latest scheme?" he challenged raising a brow, "because I'm sure whatever it is, he's not interested in hearing it. In fact, if I were you I'd probably just turn around and walk on out of here without wasting anyone's time with whatever half brained scheme you have rolling around in that devious little mind of yours…"
"Listen you," Sami began feeling her patience wearing thin as another voice called out to her interrupting the conversation with Brady.
"Sami, I wasn't expecting to see you here so soon," John greeted her with a smile as he stepped out of his office, "What are you doing here?"
"I cut my vacation a little short," She explained with a smile quickly changing from the sour expression she'd offered up for Brady, "Will had a parent/teacher conference and I thought I'd come home early to be there."
"So what has the little hellion been getting into lately?" Brady remarked offhandedly.
"Don't you have something to do," Sami glared at him.
"Actually at the moment I'm pretty open," he smiled icily at her.
"Good I'm glad to hear that son because you can be the one to show Sami around then," John smiled proudly, "as I'm sure you'll have no problems helping her feel at home. I'd do it myself but I'm swamped with meetings the rest of the afternoon. You understand I hope?"
"Oh of course," Sami nodded.
"Wait a second," Brady frowned, "why do you need me to show her around? She knows where the exit is and I'm sure that's all she needs to see."
"On the contrary Brady," John smiled wider, "your sister is going to start working here with us. I've asked her to come on as my assistant."
"Your what?" Brady blinked back at him, "are you crazy?"
"Brady," John offered up a firm look at him, "Samantha has a good head on her and I think she'll be an asset to this company. She's going to fit in just fine and I'm very excited to have her as my assistant."
"You won't regret this John," Sami offered up eagerly.
"I don't doubt that," John offered her a quick hug, "but I really should get back to business," he took a step back before throwing a look over at her, "shall I expect to see you tomorrow?"
"No problem," she agreed with a nod, "nine okay?"
"It's perfect," John thought it over, "actually how about we make it closer to ten? There's a lot we need to get into but the first day we can take it easy, maybe take in a little lunch together and discuss things."
"It sounds perfect," She agreed already liking this job far more than that at the hospital.
"Then ten it is," he waved once again before vanishing into his office leaving her alone with Brady once more.
"I don't know what you did to get here, but believe me when I tell you he's going to see through this act of yours in a week," Brady scowled at her.
"Oh would you relax Brady," she tossed her hair over her shoulder offering up a smile, "the way I see it you and I are going to be spending a lot of time with one another, so you may as well work on trying to pretend to be nice with me."
"Sami, if this is a ploy that Tony Dimera has put you up to…" he warned.
"Brady, look I was just tired of the hospital and John said he could use me here so I accepted the job," she paused before offering a pointed look, "Besides, I didn't hear you complaining when he handed you a job either."
"That's different," he frowned slightly, "but I guess since you have it in your head to make our lives miserable by working here, I may as well get a jump start on it by showing you around."
"Now there's the spirit," she chuckled lightly realizing that things were turning out better for her than she'd imagined indeed.
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Brandon took in a breath as he rang the bell at the Dimera mansion. Contemplating what he was going to say to Lexie about the situation between them, he rubbed his palms together hoping that this meeting with her would be smoother than the last was. As Aliana opened the door, she smiled at him before opening the door wider.
"Mr. Walker, how nice to see you," she smiled at him, "Is Ms. Dimera expecting you?"
"Actually, I just was in the neighborhood," he offered with a soft smile.
"I'll tell her that you're here," she offered as the doors to the study opened and Lexie appeared in the doorway.
"That won't be necessary," Lexie's voice rang through the room as she approached Brandon, "Aliana, if you could put some tea on for us."
"Of course Ms. Dimera," she nodded taking a step back before leaving them alone.
"Actually I don't think I'm going to be staying that long," Brandon offered up apologetically, "I was just on my way home when I'd heard you'd left some messages for me at the hospital."
"I did," she nodded in response reaching for his hand, "but why don't you come and sit down with me in the study? We can talk easier in there."
"I was actually," he started seeing the pleading look in her eyes before nodding, "alright."
Leading him into the other room, Lexie squeezed his hand before urging him to sit on the sofa beside her, "Brandon, I'm so glad you're here as I was just going over names in this baby book here for our son."
"Lexie," Brandon started.
"What do you think about Nathaniel," she questioned with a bright smile, "or perhaps Thomas?"
"Lexie, I think that those are both great names but," he began seeing the eagerness behind her eyes.
"But nothing," she reached out to him drawing his hand over her abdomen, "each day our child is growing inside me becoming more and more of a person and soon we're going to have our son right here in our arms and before you know it we'll be talking about schools for him, a college trust fund and…."
"Lexie," Brandon tried to pull his hand from her grasp, "listen we need to talk."
"Of course," she nodded, "but first why don't you relax? Tell me where you've been and how you're feeling. Then maybe we could go up and look at the nursery as I've been thinking about what I wanted to do with it…"
"Lexie, I don't know how to say this," Brandon cleared his throat, "but I think it's time we had a long talk."
"Brandon," she frowned in response, "what's on your mind? Did I do something wrong?"
"No," he shook his head, "you didn't do anything wrong, but there are some things that have happened that I'd like to talk to you about--things that I think you should know."
"Alright," she nodded before letting out a gasp, "oh Brandon, I can feel the baby kicking. I can't believe this," she reached for his hand again, "you have to feel this."
"Lexie," he began to open his mouth as she reached for him bringing his hand over her abdomen.
"Do you feel that," she questioned brightly, "Brandon?"
"Lexie, I…" he started feeling a twitching motion beneath his touch, "Oh my…"
"He's a little kick boxer," she offered up excited, "he has your energy."
"I don't believe this," he felt the movement, "this is incredible."
"Of course it is," she beamed at him as she reached out to touch his cheek, "because it's our baby. This is our child created out of the love we feel for one another."
"Lexie," Brandon started pulling his hand back slightly.
"No Brandon," she placed her index finger over his lips, "don't say a word. Just listen to me," she urged with a smile, "I know that you and I have been just friends for a long time, but this child is so much more for us. What we have with our baby is a miracle and it's made me realize just how much you mean to me. Just how right we are together…"
"Lexie, it's just…"
"Shh," she cut him off again leaning forward her mouth hovering over his as she whispered against his lips allowing her breath to intermingle with his.
"Don't say anything," she urged further, "just feel what it is we're meant to feel together," she leaned in closer as Brandon sensed her intentions and he drew back.
"Lexie, no," he stood up off the sofa, "Look I don't know what you think is happening between us, but I'm in love with Samantha."
"Brandon, Sami Brady is nothing but trouble," Lexie shook her head, "that girl has always been trouble, and she'll only hurt you and bring you down."
"Lexie, I love her and she loves me," Brandon argued with her, "we have something wonderful between us…"
"And what about us? What about the bond between us?" she challenged, "Brandon, I'm the mother of your child."
"Lexie, I realize that and I will be there for you and this baby every step of the way, but I love Samantha and my heart will always belong to her," he explained simply, "I just hope you can understand that."
"Brandon, how can you say that when you and I have a child together," Lexie questioned, "we're about to bring a baby into this world and how can you question our relationship? Sami couldn't give you what I can and deep down you know you're feeling it too."
"Lexie," he began as she reached out to him attempting to embrace him as he pulled away, "just don't."
"Brandon," she pleaded with him.
"I have to go," he shook his head taking a step back as he turned to leave the mansion.
"Brandon wait," she chased after him following him to the door, "don't go."
"Lexie, look I don't know what's happening with you, but you and I," he sighed, "what we did is something that we can't take back and considering we're having a child, I can't say I would want to take that back now that I know there's a life out there that I created, but my heart is with Samantha and I belong with her," he opened the front door to the mansion, "please don't try to change my mind about that because it won't work," he finished stepping out into the day as she let out a scream.
"Damn you Sami Brady," she cursed kicking the end table before her before she picked up a vase launching it across the room, "I won't let you take Brandon from me," she ripped open the robe she'd been wearing as she adjusted the straps on the pregnancy suit that Rolf had whipped up for her. Placing her hand over the electronic pulses of the suit that Rolf had created, she felt the rhythm of the simulated movement of the non-existent baby as a smile swept over her features, "Soon very soon she won't be a problem for us and I will have Brandon. One way or another he will be mine and there won't be a thing that little Miss Sami Brady can do about it."
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"So I'll see you tomorrow Brady," Sami waved at him one last time as he threw her a glare.
"I'll be looking forward to it," he rolled his eyes turning his attention back to work as he left her at the door to Basic Black.
With a tiny chuckle, Sami thought of the perks she'd have in working at Basic Black now that she could annoy Brady. That sure beat the heck out of working with Brenda any day she mused to herself as she pulled her keys out of her pocket and she stepped onto the elevator thinking of the day before her. Checking the time she realized she'd have a little time in between going to meet with Lucas for Will's conference and she decided to pick something up for her dinner with Brandon. Reaching into her purse, she pulled out her cell phone as the elevator descended to the parking garage.
Dialing Brandon's number she got the machine as she spoke up, "Brandon, hey it's me. I'm going to be running a little late tonight as I forgot about a conference we had at school for Will, but we'll be there as soon as we can after I promise you. I love you very much," she hung up the phone with a smile thinking of her plans for the evening as she stepped out into the parking garage.
"Oh Sami today is your lucky day," she mused with a smile making her way to her car through the darkened garage. Lost in her plans for the evening, she almost didn't notice the sound of the footsteps from behind her as she stepped further into the darkened garage. Looking around she paused hearing the noise pick up from behind her as she drifted out of her thoughts to take in the view. Realizing she was alone, she continued across the garage for her car when she'd heard another noise from behind her.
"Quit freaking yourself out," she warned as she turned towards her car once again. Fumbling with her keys, she stepped up beside the door ready to get out of the garage as she vowed to park closer next time when she heard a noise from behind her causing her to jump as she felt a hand seize her arm as she let out a scream turning to face the person who'd grabbed her.
……to be continued….
Samantha stepped off the elevator as she turned around to look at Brandon, a smile touching over her features. She reached for his hand guiding him down the hallway before they stopped in front of her apartment. Smiling up at him, she stepped up on her toes to offer a quick kiss before speaking, "You know you didn't have to walk me all the way up here."
"I wanted to make sure you got home safe," Brandon winked at her, "considering how amazing you are, you never know how many guys would be out here trying to sway you to dump me and run off to paradise with them."
"I'd have to tell them to take a number because the only paradise I'm interested in is the one I find in your arms," she leaned up to kiss him once again as he swept her up in his arms lifting her up off her toes and kissing her passionately.
"I love you, Samantha," he whispered against the kiss as he kept her in his arms holding her closer still.
"I love you, Brandon Walker," she offered reaching out to trace his lips with her index finger, "I'll always love you."
"I told you we'd have eternity together," Brandon couldn't help but smile as he gave her a light squeeze, "which reminds me, I would love to have dinner with you and Will tonight. What do you say?"
"Name the time and we'll be there," she beamed excitedly.
"How about my place?" he suggested with a hint of a smile.
"Hmm, that sounds tempting," she thought it over, "but I don't know if Will would be as enthused about being at your place as I might be?"
"Are you kidding," he smiled back at her, "I just bought an X-box and I have that new snowboarding game he's been asking about…"
"You went out and bought the snowboarding game," she gave him a curious look, "but Brandon you're not a snowboarding fan…"
"Well, what can I say," Brandon shrugged, "my little buddy was and I saw how much he wanted it before…"
"Brandon, I can't believe you did that for him," she shook her head as a happiness filled through her reaching down to the tips of her toes and up again, "I mean I know you and Will get along, but to think of doing that for him even when you and I were on the outs…"
"Will's an incredible kid," Brandon reminded her, "and just like his mother I happen to enjoy his company very much. I've been looking for an opportunity to have you both over to join in the fun and hey," he winked at her, "I even bought an extra controller for all of us to play."
"Oh Brandon," she hugged him again, "I love you so much. You're the most wonderful, amazing man I've ever met and with each passing second my love for you grows stronger and stronger. You are so thoughtful and loving…"
"It's all because I love you," Brandon whispered kissing her once again before setting her down on the ground, "your love has given me a breath of life that I never knew existed before you came along. The moment I met you was the moment when my heart awakened and I found out that true happiness was waiting for me."
"You're my happiness," she reached up to touch his face, "Brandon, I don't think I've ever been this happy."
"This is only the beginning," he promised with a bright smile, "and tonight I have something for you as well as Will."
"You do?" she questioned her eyes widening.
"That's right," he nodded eagerly, "but you'll have to wait and see what it is tonight over dinner."
"Brandon, you know how I hate waiting," she frowned slightly, "I love surprises, but the waiting…"
"It'll be worth it," he promised giving her one last kiss, "but I'd better get over to the hospital now before they start to wonder what happened to me."
"You can tell them you ran away with the woman who loves you very much," Sami smiled up at him.
"I don't have to run away anymore, Samantha," Brandon cupped her face in his hands, "because now I'm home at long last with you."
"I love you," she breathed inching up to kiss him before he took a step back and she waved watching every step he took on the way to the elevator. Smiling as he threw her one last look as the elevator doors closed, she started to realize that her life was complete and everything she'd ever wanted at long last.
"Gee look what the cat dragged in," Lucas' voice interrupted as she felt a frown building inside of her. Spinning around she saw him standing in the hallway with his arms folded in front of his chest, "looks like lover boy was looking to extend the vacation."
"Jealous Lucas?" Sami shot him a glare.
"Hardly," he rolled his eyes, "I just don't like the guy. He gives me the creeps."
"Everyone gives you the creeps which proves that you need some serious therapy Lucas," Sami shot back placing her key in the door before turning to look at him once again, "so how did Will do in getting off to school this morning?"
"He wasn't really in the mood to go as he was hoping he'd see you before he left, but Greta talked him into it after we agreed we'd take him out to breakfast," Lucas stated simply.
"Breakfast huh," Sami thought it over, "you know you're completely spoiling him Lucas."
"Can I help it if I want our son to have a nice life," Lucas challenged, "I missed out on a lot of time with him and I'd like to give him something good in this life."
"I realize that Lucas, but…" She stopped herself, "forget it. I don't want to fight with you. Besides, I thought we'd moved beyond this."
"We have," Lucas sighed shaking his head, "look I don't mean to upset you, but I'm just worried about you that's all. When you disappeared like you did and didn't call we were all worried."
"I'm sure," Sami pushed open the door to her apartment.
"No really," he followed her inside, "we all were starting to think something happened to you since trouble usually follows."
"Gee thanks and here I thought you were ready to turn over a new leaf," she tossed her keys down on the table top.
"I am, but Sami still you have to think about Will and about what your latest romantic disaster will do to him," Lucas pointed out matter of fact.
"My latest romance is anything, but a disaster and I don't need you coming in here bringing a negative vibe to my perfectly wonderful morning," she cast him a glare, "in fact, if I do recall I didn't invite you in here, now did I?"
"Look, all I'm saying…" Lucas began.
"Forget what you're saying Lucas," Sami shook her head, "I've heard it all before and truth be told I just don't want to hear it again. This time I'm very happy and I'd like to keep it that way."
"But at what price?" Lucas raised an arched brow, "Sami, I know you. You're always up to something when it comes to having a guy in your life and with Brandon Walker I get the feeling that there's another scam going on…"
"Lucas, there is no scam. This time it's the real thing. Brandon loves me for me--the good and the bad and nothing is ever going to change that. We have a bond that comes once in a life time and this time I'm not going to let that slip away."
"Sami, would you just think about what you're saying?" Lucas watched her closely as she circled around the room.
"I have thought about it and it's exactly what I want and deserve in my life," she offered matter of fact, "I'm happy and I'd like to keep it that way, so if you'll excuse me I have to go now."
"Where are you headed?"
"Basic Black," she shrugged, "not that it's any of your business, but I should report in with John since I'll be starting there soon."
"Fine," he stepped aside, "oh and while you're there if you could tell my mother…"
"I'm not telling your mother anything," Sami piped back at him, "That woman can stay far away from me and my father as far as I'm concerned."
"Fine, whatever," Lucas shook his head, "Just remember we have a conference with Will's teacher tonight at six."
"That's tonight?"
He nodded, "That's right and I'd expect you could take the time away from lover boy to be there."
"I'll be there Lucas," she huffed back at him, "now if you'll excuse me, I've got work to do," she finished stepping out of the apartment ready to face the world in Salem as life was finally finding a way to work with her instead of against her.
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Brandon stepped off of the hospital elevator making his way down the hallway whistling a tune as he thought of his dinner plans for Samantha and Will. He was certain he'd do something special as they deserved nothing less than incredible on this special night. Thinking of his plans for the future, he passed by the nurse's station spotting Brenda up ahead.
"Good morning Brenda," Brandon smiled at her.
"Brandon, it's nice to see you back again," Brenda smiled at him, "when we'd heard about you being out in that storm, there was a lot of concern about you."
"Word sure passes quick around this place, doesn't it?" Brandon couldn't help but let out a tiny laugh, "listen, do you have any messages for me?"
"Um, I think a few came in the other day," Brenda thought it over, "Lexie Carver was in asking about you the other night."
"Was there something she needed," Brandon asked curiously.
"I'm not sure," Brenda shook her head, "She and her brother came to emergency though and had a scare about the baby."
"What kind of scare," Brandon frowned in response.
"I'm not sure, but Dr. Murphy said that everything was alright," Brenda shook her head, "Still Lexie seemed awfully upset."
"Thanks Brenda," Brandon thought it over, "listen I think I'm going to just pick up my messages and then head on out since I'm not in the schedule here until tomorrow since I'm still on vacation time."
"No problem Brandon," she smiled at him before directing her attention to the new receptionist that had filled Sami's shoes. The woman had been carrying a pile of file folders before dropping them all over the floor as Brenda let out a groan, "Ugh and I thought Samantha Brady was bad."
"Hey cut her a break Brenda," Brandon warned simply, "after all I'd hate to hear you speaking about my fiancée that way."
"Your fiancée?" Brenda repeated, "you've got to be kidding me."
"Not at all," Brandon shook his head as a smile swept over his features, "Samantha and I are engaged."
"Oy!" she let out an exasperated sigh, "and just when I gave you some credit," she began as another crashing sound captured her attention and she turned to the new receptionist ready to lash out at her.
Shaking his head, Brandon realized that perhaps things would be better at Basic Black for Samantha as John didn't seem as though he'd be nearly as hard on her as Brenda was. Smiling at the thought of Samantha, Brandon went to pick up his messages as he thought of what Brenda had said about Lexie and he contemplated paying her a visit in between preparations for tonight's dinner with Samantha and Will. After all it was the least he could do for the mother of his child.
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Sami entered the office at Basic Black taking a look around as a smile swept over her features. This was so much better than the hospital and even if it meant to kissing up to John a little bit, it would be worth it in the long run if it kept her away from Brenda, the slave driver. Scanning the room's décor, she decided that the style and class that filled the air surrounding Basic Black was something that could take some getting used to, but in a very good way. Now as she stood in the center of it all, she could feel herself filled with an air of confidence that she hadn't had since she'd been working at Titan but even then thinks weren't as they were now. Somehow it just all felt like it was coming together for her.
"Oh great," A voice muttered as she spun around to see Brady standing behind her, "What are you doing here?"
"Brady," she rolled her eyes in response, "gee what no hello?"
"Gee, hello Sami," he shot back with a glare, "great to see you, so what the hell are you doing here?"
"Blunt aren't you," she shook her head, "you know you should really work on that anger management because it's going to get you into big trouble down the line if you don't watch yourself."
"Ah yes, this is something I never thought I'd see," he let out a tiny chuckle, "I'm being given a lesson on manners from Salem's super brat," he continued to laugh, "now this is priceless."
"Look Brady, I didn't come here to deal with you," she began.
"Then why are you here? To harass my father in between your latest scheme?" he challenged raising a brow, "because I'm sure whatever it is, he's not interested in hearing it. In fact, if I were you I'd probably just turn around and walk on out of here without wasting anyone's time with whatever half brained scheme you have rolling around in that devious little mind of yours…"
"Listen you," Sami began feeling her patience wearing thin as another voice called out to her interrupting the conversation with Brady.
"Sami, I wasn't expecting to see you here so soon," John greeted her with a smile as he stepped out of his office, "What are you doing here?"
"I cut my vacation a little short," She explained with a smile quickly changing from the sour expression she'd offered up for Brady, "Will had a parent/teacher conference and I thought I'd come home early to be there."
"So what has the little hellion been getting into lately?" Brady remarked offhandedly.
"Don't you have something to do," Sami glared at him.
"Actually at the moment I'm pretty open," he smiled icily at her.
"Good I'm glad to hear that son because you can be the one to show Sami around then," John smiled proudly, "as I'm sure you'll have no problems helping her feel at home. I'd do it myself but I'm swamped with meetings the rest of the afternoon. You understand I hope?"
"Oh of course," Sami nodded.
"Wait a second," Brady frowned, "why do you need me to show her around? She knows where the exit is and I'm sure that's all she needs to see."
"On the contrary Brady," John smiled wider, "your sister is going to start working here with us. I've asked her to come on as my assistant."
"Your what?" Brady blinked back at him, "are you crazy?"
"Brady," John offered up a firm look at him, "Samantha has a good head on her and I think she'll be an asset to this company. She's going to fit in just fine and I'm very excited to have her as my assistant."
"You won't regret this John," Sami offered up eagerly.
"I don't doubt that," John offered her a quick hug, "but I really should get back to business," he took a step back before throwing a look over at her, "shall I expect to see you tomorrow?"
"No problem," she agreed with a nod, "nine okay?"
"It's perfect," John thought it over, "actually how about we make it closer to ten? There's a lot we need to get into but the first day we can take it easy, maybe take in a little lunch together and discuss things."
"It sounds perfect," She agreed already liking this job far more than that at the hospital.
"Then ten it is," he waved once again before vanishing into his office leaving her alone with Brady once more.
"I don't know what you did to get here, but believe me when I tell you he's going to see through this act of yours in a week," Brady scowled at her.
"Oh would you relax Brady," she tossed her hair over her shoulder offering up a smile, "the way I see it you and I are going to be spending a lot of time with one another, so you may as well work on trying to pretend to be nice with me."
"Sami, if this is a ploy that Tony Dimera has put you up to…" he warned.
"Brady, look I was just tired of the hospital and John said he could use me here so I accepted the job," she paused before offering a pointed look, "Besides, I didn't hear you complaining when he handed you a job either."
"That's different," he frowned slightly, "but I guess since you have it in your head to make our lives miserable by working here, I may as well get a jump start on it by showing you around."
"Now there's the spirit," she chuckled lightly realizing that things were turning out better for her than she'd imagined indeed.
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Brandon took in a breath as he rang the bell at the Dimera mansion. Contemplating what he was going to say to Lexie about the situation between them, he rubbed his palms together hoping that this meeting with her would be smoother than the last was. As Aliana opened the door, she smiled at him before opening the door wider.
"Mr. Walker, how nice to see you," she smiled at him, "Is Ms. Dimera expecting you?"
"Actually, I just was in the neighborhood," he offered with a soft smile.
"I'll tell her that you're here," she offered as the doors to the study opened and Lexie appeared in the doorway.
"That won't be necessary," Lexie's voice rang through the room as she approached Brandon, "Aliana, if you could put some tea on for us."
"Of course Ms. Dimera," she nodded taking a step back before leaving them alone.
"Actually I don't think I'm going to be staying that long," Brandon offered up apologetically, "I was just on my way home when I'd heard you'd left some messages for me at the hospital."
"I did," she nodded in response reaching for his hand, "but why don't you come and sit down with me in the study? We can talk easier in there."
"I was actually," he started seeing the pleading look in her eyes before nodding, "alright."
Leading him into the other room, Lexie squeezed his hand before urging him to sit on the sofa beside her, "Brandon, I'm so glad you're here as I was just going over names in this baby book here for our son."
"Lexie," Brandon started.
"What do you think about Nathaniel," she questioned with a bright smile, "or perhaps Thomas?"
"Lexie, I think that those are both great names but," he began seeing the eagerness behind her eyes.
"But nothing," she reached out to him drawing his hand over her abdomen, "each day our child is growing inside me becoming more and more of a person and soon we're going to have our son right here in our arms and before you know it we'll be talking about schools for him, a college trust fund and…."
"Lexie," Brandon tried to pull his hand from her grasp, "listen we need to talk."
"Of course," she nodded, "but first why don't you relax? Tell me where you've been and how you're feeling. Then maybe we could go up and look at the nursery as I've been thinking about what I wanted to do with it…"
"Lexie, I don't know how to say this," Brandon cleared his throat, "but I think it's time we had a long talk."
"Brandon," she frowned in response, "what's on your mind? Did I do something wrong?"
"No," he shook his head, "you didn't do anything wrong, but there are some things that have happened that I'd like to talk to you about--things that I think you should know."
"Alright," she nodded before letting out a gasp, "oh Brandon, I can feel the baby kicking. I can't believe this," she reached for his hand again, "you have to feel this."
"Lexie," he began to open his mouth as she reached for him bringing his hand over her abdomen.
"Do you feel that," she questioned brightly, "Brandon?"
"Lexie, I…" he started feeling a twitching motion beneath his touch, "Oh my…"
"He's a little kick boxer," she offered up excited, "he has your energy."
"I don't believe this," he felt the movement, "this is incredible."
"Of course it is," she beamed at him as she reached out to touch his cheek, "because it's our baby. This is our child created out of the love we feel for one another."
"Lexie," Brandon started pulling his hand back slightly.
"No Brandon," she placed her index finger over his lips, "don't say a word. Just listen to me," she urged with a smile, "I know that you and I have been just friends for a long time, but this child is so much more for us. What we have with our baby is a miracle and it's made me realize just how much you mean to me. Just how right we are together…"
"Lexie, it's just…"
"Shh," she cut him off again leaning forward her mouth hovering over his as she whispered against his lips allowing her breath to intermingle with his.
"Don't say anything," she urged further, "just feel what it is we're meant to feel together," she leaned in closer as Brandon sensed her intentions and he drew back.
"Lexie, no," he stood up off the sofa, "Look I don't know what you think is happening between us, but I'm in love with Samantha."
"Brandon, Sami Brady is nothing but trouble," Lexie shook her head, "that girl has always been trouble, and she'll only hurt you and bring you down."
"Lexie, I love her and she loves me," Brandon argued with her, "we have something wonderful between us…"
"And what about us? What about the bond between us?" she challenged, "Brandon, I'm the mother of your child."
"Lexie, I realize that and I will be there for you and this baby every step of the way, but I love Samantha and my heart will always belong to her," he explained simply, "I just hope you can understand that."
"Brandon, how can you say that when you and I have a child together," Lexie questioned, "we're about to bring a baby into this world and how can you question our relationship? Sami couldn't give you what I can and deep down you know you're feeling it too."
"Lexie," he began as she reached out to him attempting to embrace him as he pulled away, "just don't."
"Brandon," she pleaded with him.
"I have to go," he shook his head taking a step back as he turned to leave the mansion.
"Brandon wait," she chased after him following him to the door, "don't go."
"Lexie, look I don't know what's happening with you, but you and I," he sighed, "what we did is something that we can't take back and considering we're having a child, I can't say I would want to take that back now that I know there's a life out there that I created, but my heart is with Samantha and I belong with her," he opened the front door to the mansion, "please don't try to change my mind about that because it won't work," he finished stepping out into the day as she let out a scream.
"Damn you Sami Brady," she cursed kicking the end table before her before she picked up a vase launching it across the room, "I won't let you take Brandon from me," she ripped open the robe she'd been wearing as she adjusted the straps on the pregnancy suit that Rolf had whipped up for her. Placing her hand over the electronic pulses of the suit that Rolf had created, she felt the rhythm of the simulated movement of the non-existent baby as a smile swept over her features, "Soon very soon she won't be a problem for us and I will have Brandon. One way or another he will be mine and there won't be a thing that little Miss Sami Brady can do about it."
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"So I'll see you tomorrow Brady," Sami waved at him one last time as he threw her a glare.
"I'll be looking forward to it," he rolled his eyes turning his attention back to work as he left her at the door to Basic Black.
With a tiny chuckle, Sami thought of the perks she'd have in working at Basic Black now that she could annoy Brady. That sure beat the heck out of working with Brenda any day she mused to herself as she pulled her keys out of her pocket and she stepped onto the elevator thinking of the day before her. Checking the time she realized she'd have a little time in between going to meet with Lucas for Will's conference and she decided to pick something up for her dinner with Brandon. Reaching into her purse, she pulled out her cell phone as the elevator descended to the parking garage.
Dialing Brandon's number she got the machine as she spoke up, "Brandon, hey it's me. I'm going to be running a little late tonight as I forgot about a conference we had at school for Will, but we'll be there as soon as we can after I promise you. I love you very much," she hung up the phone with a smile thinking of her plans for the evening as she stepped out into the parking garage.
"Oh Sami today is your lucky day," she mused with a smile making her way to her car through the darkened garage. Lost in her plans for the evening, she almost didn't notice the sound of the footsteps from behind her as she stepped further into the darkened garage. Looking around she paused hearing the noise pick up from behind her as she drifted out of her thoughts to take in the view. Realizing she was alone, she continued across the garage for her car when she'd heard another noise from behind her.
"Quit freaking yourself out," she warned as she turned towards her car once again. Fumbling with her keys, she stepped up beside the door ready to get out of the garage as she vowed to park closer next time when she heard a noise from behind her causing her to jump as she felt a hand seize her arm as she let out a scream turning to face the person who'd grabbed her.
……to be continued….