Chapter 7
Tony plans a party. Whitney has a run in with Ivy.
'Austin who?' Julian asked, sighing.
'Austin Reed, pookie! He's a V.P. at Crane Industries. He thinks that something happened to your father. Actually, he all but said you did something to him!' Rebecca squeaked over the phone.
'Austin Reed? I am not familiar with him.' Julian murmured. Caroline Brady's mouth dropped open. She hadn't meant to listen in, but the man that had come in to the pub to speak to Celeste, was near the counter, speaking on his cell phone. How did this man know Austin?
Julian, for his part, had just happened to glance over at the old woman behind the counter. He caught her staring. She looked away quickly. Julian moved away from the counter some and turned around.
Celeste was at the window, staring out, as if she were looking for someone. No one appeared to be there. Julian turned away again.
'Well, I'll be back tonight, my dear, so don't give this underling any thought. And, I will have you know that I'm in constant contact with father. Nothing has happened to him.'
'Yes, Julian, but it is funny that he hasn't called with a cryptic message for all of us.'
'No it isn't. My father decided that since I married you and seemed to have settled down, he was finally ready to give me free rein at running things. I told you, it is only temporary.'
'Well, I suppose. Though I do wonder what Alistair could have going on, that would make him take such a big step?'
Julian shrugged, looking around the pub. The decor left a lot to be desired.
'Who knows? It's not as if he confides in me.'
'Yes, but I get the feeling that maybe he does in Austin Reed.'
'A mere employee? A V.P. at that? I doubt it. Look dearest, I really have to get going. I'll see you tonight, alright?'
'Alright, darling. I love you.'
Julian quickly hung up without returning the endearment. He put his phone back inside his suit pocket, then looked around for Celeste. What or who was she looking for?
****
Tony and Eve were in an antique store across from Brady's Pub. Eve hadn't really wanted to come, but Tony was so sweet, and insisted that she get out of the house, even if it was for a short time.
Eve had felt only slightly uncomfortable, when Tony took her hand after they got out of his limo. Slightly, because she could not help but notice that he did it with a familiarity that Eve didn't think was appropriate, yet, she secretly liked it.
Tony, for his part, had purchased her a new wardrobe, and planned on buying her more things before the day was over. He watched Eve, as she picked up a crystal statue, then set it back down, her eyes roaming around the store.
The clerk came from behind the counter, smiling at Tony.
'Hello Mr. DiMera. What can I do to today for your wife and yourself?'
Eve turned around quickly, her expression a mixture of surprise and embarrassment. Tony winked at her, then looked at the clerk.
'Ms. Lincoln is not my wife...yet. But I would like for you to show her your finest antique jewelry.'
The clerk nodded. Eve walked over to him. Her hair was upswept and she looked lovely in the spring coat he had bought for her. She touched his hand.
'Tony, what was that all about?'
He pulled on her lapel teasingly.
'What was what all about?'
Eve couldn't help smiling at him. His smile was infectious.
'That part about my not being your wife yet? You really shouldn't say such things.'
Tony put both hands on her shoulders and noticed that she was shivering slightly.'
'Are you cold?' he asked, concerned that maybe he shouldn't have brought her out into the elements just yet.
Eve shook her head.
'I just think it's being so close to the water...I'm just a little on edge.'
Tony nodded. Why hadn't he thought of that?! After her dream the other night, in which she was remembering her near drowning, Tony should've never thought of bringing her on the waterfront.
'Listen, let Claude show you some things. I'm going across the way over there to get us some coffee and things...you know, to warm you up.'
Eve nodded, feeling his hands slide off of her shoulders. She suddenly felt cold again. Eve then turned to Claude, who was waiting a few feet away with a tray full of designer jewelry.
****
Celeste watched as Tony came out of the antique store and headed towards the pub. She turned around quickly and was more than a little surprised to find Julian finished with his phone call, and staring straight at her.
'Ms Perrault, are the sights out there more interesting than I first imagined?'
Celeste was a bit stunned. She cocked her head.
'Excuse me?'
'You've been staring out of that window for...'
Julian stopped. Tony DiMera was headed their way. Julian rubbed his hands together. He hadn't seen his former Harvard classmate in years. He had read all about him though...and his wives. His last one, Kristin Blake, sounded like a handful.
Tony opened the door to the pub and stopped short. Celeste and of all people, Julian Crane, were the first people he laid eyes on. This was not good.
Julian walked around Celeste and stuck his hand out to Tony.
'Tony DiMera, long time no see. You never came to the Harvard class reunions.'
Tony immediately returned the handshake, his eyes moving from Julian's face, to Celeste's guilty looking one. What the hell had she told this man?! God help her, she had better not have said anything about Eve being alive!
Julian took note of the icy stare Tony was giving Celeste. What was going on here?
Tony looked back at Julian quickly.
'Well, Julian, what brings you to Salem?'
'Unfinished business.' Julian answered, eyeing Celeste. Celeste scratched her neck, then looked from Tony to Julian.
'I think I told you what you needed to know.' she said.
Julian nodded.
'You did indeed.' Julian then looked back at Tony. Tony was half-glancing out of the window.
Julian cleared his throat and Tony whipped back around to face him.
'I heard of your recent nuptials. Congratulations.' Tony said.
Julian nodded again, feeling more and more as if he was being left out of some big secret or something. But, he didn't have the time to ponder it. DiMera secrets could be deadly, and he wanted no part of that!
'Well, I have to get going. Thank you, Ms. Perrault. You were very helpful. Tony, nice seeing you again.'
Tony nodded. He and Celeste watched as Julian walked out of the pub and turned right, the opposite direction from where Tony's limo was parked.
Tony looked at Celeste.
'What the hell did he want?'
'Where is Eve?' Celeste asked.
'In the antique shop just across the way...God, what if Eve had stepped out when Crane was coming out of here? What did he want, Celeste?'
Celeste motioned for him to sit down. Tony obliged her. She sat next to him.
'Tony, I don't know how much of Eve's past you looked in to, so I'm just going to confess.'
'Confess?' Tony asked impatiently, 'confess to what?'
'I was married to Eve's father, long ago.'
Tony's mouth dropped open, then he shook his head slightly.
'No, I mean, you were always with Father, weren't you?'
Celeste smiled softly.
'There was a time when I realized that Stefano's world was not right for me. That Stefano, was not the man I thought he was. I left and met Warren.'
Tony's eyes widened. He realized how little he knew about Celeste's life. He just always knew she was connected to his father.
'So, Eve would know you then, if she could remember, correct?' Tony asked.
Celeste shook her head.
'No. By the time I entered her father's life, Eve had been banished from the household. I only saw pictures of her.'
'So Julian Crane knew you were her step-mother. Was he here to tell you of her supposed death?'
Celeste rubbed her hands together.
'He was here, Tony, because Eve had a younger sister. We were interrupted before he could go into any details, but I got the sense that she caused Eve some trouble. I also got the sense that Julian Crane is in love with Eve.'
Tony lifted a brow.
'Was. His Eve is dead.'
'Oh Tony! Please, if you want a relationship with this woman, you have to tell her the truth!'
Tony glanced around quickly.
'Keep your voice down. I'll tell Eve the truth when I'm ready and not a second before. Is that understood?'
Celeste said nothing and looked away. Tony stood up. He was about to walk away, but stopped and looked back down at Celeste.
'I remember reading in my report on Eve's background, that her father had died of a heart attack or something. His death was the reason you went back to Stefano?'
Celeste stood up as well and looked into his eyes.
'Warren died because of Stefano. He killed him. Your father didn't take to my new lifestyle very well. The worst part about all of that, was that he didn't kill Warren because he was in love with me. I was just a possession. Once I became another man's wife, I couldn't be at his beck and call.'
Celeste said no more. Tony backed away, then turned and left the pub. He stood outside of it. Eve could never find out that his father had killed hers. Never.
Just as he was about to walk over to the antique shop, Lexie walked up to him. Tony was a bit startled, but threw his arms around her and gave her a big hug. She returned it.
'How is my darling, little sister?' he asked, letting go of her.
Lexie smiled nervously up at him.
'We have problems.' she answered.
Tony didn't like the look on her face. He had just narrowly dodged a bullet with Julian Crane just now. He was not in the mood for more trouble.
'What is it?' he asked.
Lexie exhaled.
'Abe has seen Eve, Tony. He came by your house looking for me, and saw her there.'
'Did he speak to her?'
Lexie shook her head.
'No. He said the maid answered the door and Eve was coming down the stairs or something. Anyway, he brought this up at dinner last night with John and Marlena.'
'Great!' Tony hissed.
'Yeah, well, it gets worse. The tone of the conversation was, why are you keeping this woman a secret? Marlena brought up the bright idea of throwing some sort of dinner party or something, so that everyone could meet Eve.'
Tony said nothing, and looked away.
'What, Tony?'
Tony looked back at her and smiled.
'I think that's a wonderful idea.'
Lexie's eyes widened.
'I don't!'
'I will throw the dinner...no...a spring barbecue. That way it will be on my terms.'
'Tony, are you crazy?! Once Eve admits to one guest that she had an accident and doesn't remember anything, people will be lined up to help her!'
Tony put an arm around Lexie's shoulders.
'Leave that to me, sister dearest. Come say hello to Eve. She's in that shop over there.'
Lexie smiled and allowed her brother to lead her across the way. Neither noticed Celeste, watching them from inside the pub. She shook her head sadly.
****
Julian got back inside his limo and asked the driver to wait a moment before taking off. He didn't know how or why, but he had had the strangest sensation as he left that lowly pub. It was same feeling he always used to get when he knew Eve was nearby. He leaned back and closed his eyes. She wasn't anywhere near here, so why would he be feeling this way?
It had to be Celeste. Maybe being near someone that was connected to Eve, brought out these feelings in him, Julian thought. That had to be it.
Julian nodded to the limo driver, and he took off.
****
HARMONY
Rebecca's eyes widened when she saw Fox enter her line of vision. She was in the library, snooping through Julian's things, when she saw her step-son in the hallway.
'Good God, Fox! What the hell happened to you?'
She walked up to him and touched his face. He flinched.
'It was nothing. Where's Whitney?'
'Fox?'
Fox and Rebecca looked up. Whitney was coming down the stairs, her eyes wide with shock. She then hurried down the remaining steps. She rushed over to him and grabbed his chin.
'What happened?' she asked as well.
Fox took a deep breath.
'Chad got a little upset with me.'
Rebecca rolled her eyes and returned to the library. Whitney eyed her. She really was an unfeeling woman!
Whitney let go of his chin and pulled on his hand.
'Come on! We're going to the kitchen to see if we can find any ice to put on your eye...and lip!'
Fox allowed Whitney to lead him to a room he had seen very little of in his lifetime. But, she knew the way.
When they reached the kitchen, a few servants looked at the both of them warily. One of them asked them if they needed anything. Whitney smiled and said that Fox just needed a little ice, and that she would handle it. She then thanked them, something Fox hardly ever remembered to do.
Whitney walked over the the refrigerator freezer, and pulled out an ice tray. She then found a cloth, cracked the tray, then put the cubes in the cloth, folded it, then layed it gently on his lip. Fox pressed the cloth to his lip briefly, before setting it down.
'Fox, you need to put pressure on that. What was Chad thinking?'
Fox picked up her hand.
'He was thinking that he loves you. I guess he's just frustrated because he hasn't heard from you. Why is that?'
Whitney looked at is hand in hers. She shrugged.
'I don't know. I guess it's just that things have been so nice and peaceful here. I knew Chad would just badger me about L.A..'
Fox shrugged.
'Maybe not. Maybe he's ready to see things from your point of view.'
Whitney peered at him.
'Do you think so?'
Fox looked down.
'What, Fox? Why do I get the feeling there's something you're not telling me?'
Fox looked at Whitney.
'Whitney, I started the fight with Chad today.'
Whitney furrowed a brow.
'Why, Fox? God, hasn't there been enough trouble around this town!'
Fox squeezed her hand.
'Do you know how worried I've been about you? I know you need Chad right now. For the life of me, I didn't understand why he wasn't with you during your time of need. When I walked into the Book Cafe today, I realized why he hasn't been around.'
Whitney suddenly felt cold.
'What, Fox? What did you find out? Has Chad been hurt?'
'Hardly. He was in the cafe with Simone. I confronted him on it.'
Whitney squinted at him.
'What do you mean he was 'with her'? I mean, maybe they ran into each other or something?'
Fox shook his head. God help him, he knew he was about to tell a whopper of a lie. But, he sensed that the lack of communication between the lovebirds would work to his advantage. Chad could deny his accusation until the birds came home, Whitney would probably not believe him. And Simone hated Whitney so much that she probably would cop to being with Chad anyway!
'I think you should call him or something. Ask him what happened.' Fox answered quietly. He then picked up the icepack and placed it against his face this time. Whitney nodded, then swallowed. She turned and walked out of the kitchen.
Whitney had decided to use her cellphone in her room to call Chad. She couldn't believe he'd begin a relationship with her sister again! It made no sense!
As she reached the staircase, a sound made her pause. She looked behind her and saw Ivy Winthrop rolling towards her. Whitney realized she had heard the sound of her electric wheelchair.
'Hello, Ms. Winthrop.' Whitney said politely, wondering what she was doing here.
Ivy smiled up at her.
'Hello, Whitney. My, you look more like the lady of this house than Rebecca, that's for sure.'
Whitney didn't quite know how to answer that. While Rebecca had her problems, she had never been anything but polite to her. She decided it was best not to respond to Ms. Winthrop's dig.
'Are you here to see Fox?' Whitney asked.
Ivy snorted!
'God no! Why would you think that?'
Whitney's mouth almost dropped open. She had forgotten that Fox and his mother were not close. But now, Whitney could see why.
'I don't know, Ms. Winthrop, because he's your son?'
Ivy didn't like Whitney's tone.
'I'm actually here to see Rebecca, but since you brought him up, I have to say, Whitney, I thought you were smarter than this.'
Ivy didn't care who Fox married, if the truth be told. Sadly, that was because she didn't care much for the boy himself. And deep down, she knew it was because he was Julian's offspring, and not Sam's.
And Fox was so much like Julian, it really sickened her! She had watched the two of them, father and son, oogling Whitney at Eve's funeral. Then, when she heard that it was Julian's idea for Whitney to live here(courtesy of Rebecca), that was when she became nauseous! It was obvious that Julian had offered Fox a way to woo Ms. Russell, with the intention of seducing her for himself as well!
'I don't know what you mean?' Whitney replied, tensing up.
'I thought you loved Chad Harris?'
'I do!'
'Then why in God's name are you living here with my son and Julian? Can't you see that Julian is trying to get you to take your mother's place? Eve was smart enough to avoid Julian's advances, and now, he thinks he's going to have you! This will break Fox's heart!'
At that moment, Whitney was pretty sure that Ivy couldn't give a damn about Fox's heart or anything else!
Meanwhile, Fox, who had decided to follow Whitney and listen in on her call, was a bit stunned to find her talking to his mother. What the hell was she doing here? He hid in a back hallway and listened in.
'Julian and Fox have been nothing but kind to me!'
Ivy raised a brow.
'Now you're calling him 'Julian'? Let me give you a piece of advice dear: lock your bedroom door and shove a dresser or something underneath it! Because I'm sure if he hasn't already tried, he'll attempt a 'midnight run' for sex with you, believe you me!'
Fox had heard enough! Yes, his father could be a lech, but he really believed that Julian wanted this for him. He wanted him to be with Whitney! Leave it to his mother to make something so wonderful seem vile!
Fox walked up to them. Whitney saw him first and smiled, trying to cover. There was no way she wanted him to know how rotten his mother was(although she was sure he had some idea). It might make him feel bad.
'Hey, Fox! I was just visiting with your mother.' Whitney said, a bright smile adorning her face.
At that moment, Fox could not have loved her more. It was obvious that Whitney cared enough about him, that she didn't want him to know all of the rotten things his mother had said about him, and Julian. That in itself told Fox that she didn't believe Ivy anyway. And if Whitney wouldn't listen to his mother, she probably wouldn't want to hear what Chad had to say either!
'Good God! What happened to you?' Ivy asked, eyeing him from her chair.
'Does Rebecca know that you're lurking about here?' Fox asked coolly.
'As a matter of fact, I'm here to see her. I was just warning Whitney...'
'She was warning me about how beautiful the view of the lake is at night from here,' Whitney said quickly. 'Your mother seems to think that I may never want to leave.'
Ivy looked away. She thought Whitney's save was kind of lame. But Fox was profoundly touched. He stared at her lovingly for a moment, before glaring at his mother.
'Rebecca is in Father's study, rifling through his things. Goodbye.'
Ivy rolled her eyes, then turned her chair. She zoomed quickly across the hallway, banging into the library door. Rebecca opened it.
'God! You left a black mark on the door! Julian will be so upset!'
'Just put in a tape of Eve and I'm sure all will be forgiven!' Ivy sniped.
Rebecca glared down at her, shooting Fox and Whitney a quick glance. She didn't want Whitney hearing anything about tapes of her mother!
'Why are you here, Ivy?'
Ivy leaned back in her chair.
'I want to know how my son and Gwen are doing. I also want to know if you've seen Teresa lurking around here, trying to glean information about Ethan?'
Rebecca watched as Fox and Whitney, disappeared down a hallway. She then folded her arms.
'Teresa was here today, as Whitney's guest. But I haven't spoken to the little tramp about anything. I'm just going to assume she's still plotting as usual. Though...'
'What?' Ivy asked.
'Well, this isn't about Teresa, but she was here when it happened.'
'When what happened?' Ivy asked impatiently.
'An employee from Crane Industries was here today. A cute one at that. He seems to think that Alistair has been the victim of foul play.'
Ivy snorted, shaking her head.
'I wish! Why would this employee thing that?'
Rebecca shrugged.
'It has been awhile since I've heard from him.'
'Well, that's not so unusual. Consider it a blessing.' Ivy said.
Rebecca shrugged again.
'I guess...Julian thought it was ridiculous too. He told me he's been in contact with him, as he should, since Alistair has left him in charge of everything.'
Ivy, who at that point, had been looking at a very ugly vase in the hallway, suddenly whipped her head back around to gape at Rebecca.
'What?! What did you say?'
'I said that Julian thought it was ridiculous too.'
'No, after that!'
Rebecca had to think. She then nodded.
'Oh, Alistair has left him in charge of everything.'
Ivy nodded with a calm she did not feel. There was no way in the hell that Alistair Crane, meddling and loathsome bastard that he was, had just up and decided to kick back and give Julian control of the reins! Someone had decided to give him a vacation. And that someone was probably Julian.
Rebecca began yacking on about other things, but Ivy had checked out long ago. What had suddenly caused her sniveling ex to grow a backbone?
But, as usual, Ivy's thoughts went back to Sam and her predicament with him. Grace had found out that she wasn't going to her physical therapy classes. No, she had not. For if she did get better, then she would have to move out of Sam and Grace's house. So for now, Ivy decided to stay good and paralyzed!
****
Simone Russell tossed the mail on to a table and looked around the house. It was quiet. She knew her father had went back to work, and seemed to be throwing his all into the coaching the boys varsity basketball team this year. While she never got to see him, Simone was just happy he wasn't hanging around the house, moping over Mom.
Pilar's car was out front though, so Simone knew she was around. She liked Pilar. Pilar, in many ways, listened to her like her mother never did. Her mother always just took Whitney's side.
Simone swallowed guiltily, That wasn't fair. And it wasn't always true. She guessed she was just having one of those days.
Simone walked into the kitchen, and found Pilar looking at something that resembled photographs. They were about 8 x 11. But that wasn't hit Simone immediately. It was that Pilar looked pretty damned gorgeous!
She was dressed in a designer pants suit, and her hair was swept up. When she saw Simone, she jumped, then shoved the photographs inside an envelope.
'Simone! I didn't expect you home so soon.'
Simone nodded smiling.
'What's this? You look pretty fancy there.'
Pilar looked embarrassed.
'Would you believe Sheridan bought this for me in Paris. Her and Luis want to meet me at some fancy restaurant...I didn't want to go looking bad.'
Simone waved a hand at her.
'You could never look bad, Pilar. Well have a good time. Will you be back tomorrow?'
Pilar gave the girl a sympathetic look.
'I don't really think you all need me anymore.'
Simone's eyes widened.
'Of course we do! I know Daddy is at work and I have classes, but you are family, Pilar.'
Pilar nodded, then hugged her.
'I feel the same way. But you know, you do have Whitney...'
Simone pulled away abruptly.
'Don't mention that bitch's name to me!'
'Simone! Don't talk about your sister like that!'
Simone turned away from her.
'I'm sorry, Pilar! But you used to work for the Cranes! You know how despicable they are! And after what we found out about my mother and Julian Crane...how Whitney could disrespect our mother's memory like that is beyond me!'
Pilar rubbed her shoulder.
'I have to get going, but let's have lunch tomorrow at the book cafe. Maybe I can get Teresa to join us?'
Simone nodded. But she didn't want to see Teresa. Everyone knew she was on Whitney's side, no matter how wrong she was!
Pilar gave Simone's shoulder a squeeze, then walked out of the kitchen, carrying the envelope. She walked through the living room, picking up a purse that matched her suit, then walked towards the front door. She opened it, stepped out, then closed it behind her.
Only when Pilar was safely outside, did she stop to pull the pictures out of the envelope. They were photographs of Liz Sanbourne looking at cars at the edge of Harmony Swamp. Pilar raised a brow, shoved the pictures back inside the envelope, then walked to her car.
Tony plans a party. Whitney has a run in with Ivy.
'Austin who?' Julian asked, sighing.
'Austin Reed, pookie! He's a V.P. at Crane Industries. He thinks that something happened to your father. Actually, he all but said you did something to him!' Rebecca squeaked over the phone.
'Austin Reed? I am not familiar with him.' Julian murmured. Caroline Brady's mouth dropped open. She hadn't meant to listen in, but the man that had come in to the pub to speak to Celeste, was near the counter, speaking on his cell phone. How did this man know Austin?
Julian, for his part, had just happened to glance over at the old woman behind the counter. He caught her staring. She looked away quickly. Julian moved away from the counter some and turned around.
Celeste was at the window, staring out, as if she were looking for someone. No one appeared to be there. Julian turned away again.
'Well, I'll be back tonight, my dear, so don't give this underling any thought. And, I will have you know that I'm in constant contact with father. Nothing has happened to him.'
'Yes, Julian, but it is funny that he hasn't called with a cryptic message for all of us.'
'No it isn't. My father decided that since I married you and seemed to have settled down, he was finally ready to give me free rein at running things. I told you, it is only temporary.'
'Well, I suppose. Though I do wonder what Alistair could have going on, that would make him take such a big step?'
Julian shrugged, looking around the pub. The decor left a lot to be desired.
'Who knows? It's not as if he confides in me.'
'Yes, but I get the feeling that maybe he does in Austin Reed.'
'A mere employee? A V.P. at that? I doubt it. Look dearest, I really have to get going. I'll see you tonight, alright?'
'Alright, darling. I love you.'
Julian quickly hung up without returning the endearment. He put his phone back inside his suit pocket, then looked around for Celeste. What or who was she looking for?
****
Tony and Eve were in an antique store across from Brady's Pub. Eve hadn't really wanted to come, but Tony was so sweet, and insisted that she get out of the house, even if it was for a short time.
Eve had felt only slightly uncomfortable, when Tony took her hand after they got out of his limo. Slightly, because she could not help but notice that he did it with a familiarity that Eve didn't think was appropriate, yet, she secretly liked it.
Tony, for his part, had purchased her a new wardrobe, and planned on buying her more things before the day was over. He watched Eve, as she picked up a crystal statue, then set it back down, her eyes roaming around the store.
The clerk came from behind the counter, smiling at Tony.
'Hello Mr. DiMera. What can I do to today for your wife and yourself?'
Eve turned around quickly, her expression a mixture of surprise and embarrassment. Tony winked at her, then looked at the clerk.
'Ms. Lincoln is not my wife...yet. But I would like for you to show her your finest antique jewelry.'
The clerk nodded. Eve walked over to him. Her hair was upswept and she looked lovely in the spring coat he had bought for her. She touched his hand.
'Tony, what was that all about?'
He pulled on her lapel teasingly.
'What was what all about?'
Eve couldn't help smiling at him. His smile was infectious.
'That part about my not being your wife yet? You really shouldn't say such things.'
Tony put both hands on her shoulders and noticed that she was shivering slightly.'
'Are you cold?' he asked, concerned that maybe he shouldn't have brought her out into the elements just yet.
Eve shook her head.
'I just think it's being so close to the water...I'm just a little on edge.'
Tony nodded. Why hadn't he thought of that?! After her dream the other night, in which she was remembering her near drowning, Tony should've never thought of bringing her on the waterfront.
'Listen, let Claude show you some things. I'm going across the way over there to get us some coffee and things...you know, to warm you up.'
Eve nodded, feeling his hands slide off of her shoulders. She suddenly felt cold again. Eve then turned to Claude, who was waiting a few feet away with a tray full of designer jewelry.
****
Celeste watched as Tony came out of the antique store and headed towards the pub. She turned around quickly and was more than a little surprised to find Julian finished with his phone call, and staring straight at her.
'Ms Perrault, are the sights out there more interesting than I first imagined?'
Celeste was a bit stunned. She cocked her head.
'Excuse me?'
'You've been staring out of that window for...'
Julian stopped. Tony DiMera was headed their way. Julian rubbed his hands together. He hadn't seen his former Harvard classmate in years. He had read all about him though...and his wives. His last one, Kristin Blake, sounded like a handful.
Tony opened the door to the pub and stopped short. Celeste and of all people, Julian Crane, were the first people he laid eyes on. This was not good.
Julian walked around Celeste and stuck his hand out to Tony.
'Tony DiMera, long time no see. You never came to the Harvard class reunions.'
Tony immediately returned the handshake, his eyes moving from Julian's face, to Celeste's guilty looking one. What the hell had she told this man?! God help her, she had better not have said anything about Eve being alive!
Julian took note of the icy stare Tony was giving Celeste. What was going on here?
Tony looked back at Julian quickly.
'Well, Julian, what brings you to Salem?'
'Unfinished business.' Julian answered, eyeing Celeste. Celeste scratched her neck, then looked from Tony to Julian.
'I think I told you what you needed to know.' she said.
Julian nodded.
'You did indeed.' Julian then looked back at Tony. Tony was half-glancing out of the window.
Julian cleared his throat and Tony whipped back around to face him.
'I heard of your recent nuptials. Congratulations.' Tony said.
Julian nodded again, feeling more and more as if he was being left out of some big secret or something. But, he didn't have the time to ponder it. DiMera secrets could be deadly, and he wanted no part of that!
'Well, I have to get going. Thank you, Ms. Perrault. You were very helpful. Tony, nice seeing you again.'
Tony nodded. He and Celeste watched as Julian walked out of the pub and turned right, the opposite direction from where Tony's limo was parked.
Tony looked at Celeste.
'What the hell did he want?'
'Where is Eve?' Celeste asked.
'In the antique shop just across the way...God, what if Eve had stepped out when Crane was coming out of here? What did he want, Celeste?'
Celeste motioned for him to sit down. Tony obliged her. She sat next to him.
'Tony, I don't know how much of Eve's past you looked in to, so I'm just going to confess.'
'Confess?' Tony asked impatiently, 'confess to what?'
'I was married to Eve's father, long ago.'
Tony's mouth dropped open, then he shook his head slightly.
'No, I mean, you were always with Father, weren't you?'
Celeste smiled softly.
'There was a time when I realized that Stefano's world was not right for me. That Stefano, was not the man I thought he was. I left and met Warren.'
Tony's eyes widened. He realized how little he knew about Celeste's life. He just always knew she was connected to his father.
'So, Eve would know you then, if she could remember, correct?' Tony asked.
Celeste shook her head.
'No. By the time I entered her father's life, Eve had been banished from the household. I only saw pictures of her.'
'So Julian Crane knew you were her step-mother. Was he here to tell you of her supposed death?'
Celeste rubbed her hands together.
'He was here, Tony, because Eve had a younger sister. We were interrupted before he could go into any details, but I got the sense that she caused Eve some trouble. I also got the sense that Julian Crane is in love with Eve.'
Tony lifted a brow.
'Was. His Eve is dead.'
'Oh Tony! Please, if you want a relationship with this woman, you have to tell her the truth!'
Tony glanced around quickly.
'Keep your voice down. I'll tell Eve the truth when I'm ready and not a second before. Is that understood?'
Celeste said nothing and looked away. Tony stood up. He was about to walk away, but stopped and looked back down at Celeste.
'I remember reading in my report on Eve's background, that her father had died of a heart attack or something. His death was the reason you went back to Stefano?'
Celeste stood up as well and looked into his eyes.
'Warren died because of Stefano. He killed him. Your father didn't take to my new lifestyle very well. The worst part about all of that, was that he didn't kill Warren because he was in love with me. I was just a possession. Once I became another man's wife, I couldn't be at his beck and call.'
Celeste said no more. Tony backed away, then turned and left the pub. He stood outside of it. Eve could never find out that his father had killed hers. Never.
Just as he was about to walk over to the antique shop, Lexie walked up to him. Tony was a bit startled, but threw his arms around her and gave her a big hug. She returned it.
'How is my darling, little sister?' he asked, letting go of her.
Lexie smiled nervously up at him.
'We have problems.' she answered.
Tony didn't like the look on her face. He had just narrowly dodged a bullet with Julian Crane just now. He was not in the mood for more trouble.
'What is it?' he asked.
Lexie exhaled.
'Abe has seen Eve, Tony. He came by your house looking for me, and saw her there.'
'Did he speak to her?'
Lexie shook her head.
'No. He said the maid answered the door and Eve was coming down the stairs or something. Anyway, he brought this up at dinner last night with John and Marlena.'
'Great!' Tony hissed.
'Yeah, well, it gets worse. The tone of the conversation was, why are you keeping this woman a secret? Marlena brought up the bright idea of throwing some sort of dinner party or something, so that everyone could meet Eve.'
Tony said nothing, and looked away.
'What, Tony?'
Tony looked back at her and smiled.
'I think that's a wonderful idea.'
Lexie's eyes widened.
'I don't!'
'I will throw the dinner...no...a spring barbecue. That way it will be on my terms.'
'Tony, are you crazy?! Once Eve admits to one guest that she had an accident and doesn't remember anything, people will be lined up to help her!'
Tony put an arm around Lexie's shoulders.
'Leave that to me, sister dearest. Come say hello to Eve. She's in that shop over there.'
Lexie smiled and allowed her brother to lead her across the way. Neither noticed Celeste, watching them from inside the pub. She shook her head sadly.
****
Julian got back inside his limo and asked the driver to wait a moment before taking off. He didn't know how or why, but he had had the strangest sensation as he left that lowly pub. It was same feeling he always used to get when he knew Eve was nearby. He leaned back and closed his eyes. She wasn't anywhere near here, so why would he be feeling this way?
It had to be Celeste. Maybe being near someone that was connected to Eve, brought out these feelings in him, Julian thought. That had to be it.
Julian nodded to the limo driver, and he took off.
****
HARMONY
Rebecca's eyes widened when she saw Fox enter her line of vision. She was in the library, snooping through Julian's things, when she saw her step-son in the hallway.
'Good God, Fox! What the hell happened to you?'
She walked up to him and touched his face. He flinched.
'It was nothing. Where's Whitney?'
'Fox?'
Fox and Rebecca looked up. Whitney was coming down the stairs, her eyes wide with shock. She then hurried down the remaining steps. She rushed over to him and grabbed his chin.
'What happened?' she asked as well.
Fox took a deep breath.
'Chad got a little upset with me.'
Rebecca rolled her eyes and returned to the library. Whitney eyed her. She really was an unfeeling woman!
Whitney let go of his chin and pulled on his hand.
'Come on! We're going to the kitchen to see if we can find any ice to put on your eye...and lip!'
Fox allowed Whitney to lead him to a room he had seen very little of in his lifetime. But, she knew the way.
When they reached the kitchen, a few servants looked at the both of them warily. One of them asked them if they needed anything. Whitney smiled and said that Fox just needed a little ice, and that she would handle it. She then thanked them, something Fox hardly ever remembered to do.
Whitney walked over the the refrigerator freezer, and pulled out an ice tray. She then found a cloth, cracked the tray, then put the cubes in the cloth, folded it, then layed it gently on his lip. Fox pressed the cloth to his lip briefly, before setting it down.
'Fox, you need to put pressure on that. What was Chad thinking?'
Fox picked up her hand.
'He was thinking that he loves you. I guess he's just frustrated because he hasn't heard from you. Why is that?'
Whitney looked at is hand in hers. She shrugged.
'I don't know. I guess it's just that things have been so nice and peaceful here. I knew Chad would just badger me about L.A..'
Fox shrugged.
'Maybe not. Maybe he's ready to see things from your point of view.'
Whitney peered at him.
'Do you think so?'
Fox looked down.
'What, Fox? Why do I get the feeling there's something you're not telling me?'
Fox looked at Whitney.
'Whitney, I started the fight with Chad today.'
Whitney furrowed a brow.
'Why, Fox? God, hasn't there been enough trouble around this town!'
Fox squeezed her hand.
'Do you know how worried I've been about you? I know you need Chad right now. For the life of me, I didn't understand why he wasn't with you during your time of need. When I walked into the Book Cafe today, I realized why he hasn't been around.'
Whitney suddenly felt cold.
'What, Fox? What did you find out? Has Chad been hurt?'
'Hardly. He was in the cafe with Simone. I confronted him on it.'
Whitney squinted at him.
'What do you mean he was 'with her'? I mean, maybe they ran into each other or something?'
Fox shook his head. God help him, he knew he was about to tell a whopper of a lie. But, he sensed that the lack of communication between the lovebirds would work to his advantage. Chad could deny his accusation until the birds came home, Whitney would probably not believe him. And Simone hated Whitney so much that she probably would cop to being with Chad anyway!
'I think you should call him or something. Ask him what happened.' Fox answered quietly. He then picked up the icepack and placed it against his face this time. Whitney nodded, then swallowed. She turned and walked out of the kitchen.
Whitney had decided to use her cellphone in her room to call Chad. She couldn't believe he'd begin a relationship with her sister again! It made no sense!
As she reached the staircase, a sound made her pause. She looked behind her and saw Ivy Winthrop rolling towards her. Whitney realized she had heard the sound of her electric wheelchair.
'Hello, Ms. Winthrop.' Whitney said politely, wondering what she was doing here.
Ivy smiled up at her.
'Hello, Whitney. My, you look more like the lady of this house than Rebecca, that's for sure.'
Whitney didn't quite know how to answer that. While Rebecca had her problems, she had never been anything but polite to her. She decided it was best not to respond to Ms. Winthrop's dig.
'Are you here to see Fox?' Whitney asked.
Ivy snorted!
'God no! Why would you think that?'
Whitney's mouth almost dropped open. She had forgotten that Fox and his mother were not close. But now, Whitney could see why.
'I don't know, Ms. Winthrop, because he's your son?'
Ivy didn't like Whitney's tone.
'I'm actually here to see Rebecca, but since you brought him up, I have to say, Whitney, I thought you were smarter than this.'
Ivy didn't care who Fox married, if the truth be told. Sadly, that was because she didn't care much for the boy himself. And deep down, she knew it was because he was Julian's offspring, and not Sam's.
And Fox was so much like Julian, it really sickened her! She had watched the two of them, father and son, oogling Whitney at Eve's funeral. Then, when she heard that it was Julian's idea for Whitney to live here(courtesy of Rebecca), that was when she became nauseous! It was obvious that Julian had offered Fox a way to woo Ms. Russell, with the intention of seducing her for himself as well!
'I don't know what you mean?' Whitney replied, tensing up.
'I thought you loved Chad Harris?'
'I do!'
'Then why in God's name are you living here with my son and Julian? Can't you see that Julian is trying to get you to take your mother's place? Eve was smart enough to avoid Julian's advances, and now, he thinks he's going to have you! This will break Fox's heart!'
At that moment, Whitney was pretty sure that Ivy couldn't give a damn about Fox's heart or anything else!
Meanwhile, Fox, who had decided to follow Whitney and listen in on her call, was a bit stunned to find her talking to his mother. What the hell was she doing here? He hid in a back hallway and listened in.
'Julian and Fox have been nothing but kind to me!'
Ivy raised a brow.
'Now you're calling him 'Julian'? Let me give you a piece of advice dear: lock your bedroom door and shove a dresser or something underneath it! Because I'm sure if he hasn't already tried, he'll attempt a 'midnight run' for sex with you, believe you me!'
Fox had heard enough! Yes, his father could be a lech, but he really believed that Julian wanted this for him. He wanted him to be with Whitney! Leave it to his mother to make something so wonderful seem vile!
Fox walked up to them. Whitney saw him first and smiled, trying to cover. There was no way she wanted him to know how rotten his mother was(although she was sure he had some idea). It might make him feel bad.
'Hey, Fox! I was just visiting with your mother.' Whitney said, a bright smile adorning her face.
At that moment, Fox could not have loved her more. It was obvious that Whitney cared enough about him, that she didn't want him to know all of the rotten things his mother had said about him, and Julian. That in itself told Fox that she didn't believe Ivy anyway. And if Whitney wouldn't listen to his mother, she probably wouldn't want to hear what Chad had to say either!
'Good God! What happened to you?' Ivy asked, eyeing him from her chair.
'Does Rebecca know that you're lurking about here?' Fox asked coolly.
'As a matter of fact, I'm here to see her. I was just warning Whitney...'
'She was warning me about how beautiful the view of the lake is at night from here,' Whitney said quickly. 'Your mother seems to think that I may never want to leave.'
Ivy looked away. She thought Whitney's save was kind of lame. But Fox was profoundly touched. He stared at her lovingly for a moment, before glaring at his mother.
'Rebecca is in Father's study, rifling through his things. Goodbye.'
Ivy rolled her eyes, then turned her chair. She zoomed quickly across the hallway, banging into the library door. Rebecca opened it.
'God! You left a black mark on the door! Julian will be so upset!'
'Just put in a tape of Eve and I'm sure all will be forgiven!' Ivy sniped.
Rebecca glared down at her, shooting Fox and Whitney a quick glance. She didn't want Whitney hearing anything about tapes of her mother!
'Why are you here, Ivy?'
Ivy leaned back in her chair.
'I want to know how my son and Gwen are doing. I also want to know if you've seen Teresa lurking around here, trying to glean information about Ethan?'
Rebecca watched as Fox and Whitney, disappeared down a hallway. She then folded her arms.
'Teresa was here today, as Whitney's guest. But I haven't spoken to the little tramp about anything. I'm just going to assume she's still plotting as usual. Though...'
'What?' Ivy asked.
'Well, this isn't about Teresa, but she was here when it happened.'
'When what happened?' Ivy asked impatiently.
'An employee from Crane Industries was here today. A cute one at that. He seems to think that Alistair has been the victim of foul play.'
Ivy snorted, shaking her head.
'I wish! Why would this employee thing that?'
Rebecca shrugged.
'It has been awhile since I've heard from him.'
'Well, that's not so unusual. Consider it a blessing.' Ivy said.
Rebecca shrugged again.
'I guess...Julian thought it was ridiculous too. He told me he's been in contact with him, as he should, since Alistair has left him in charge of everything.'
Ivy, who at that point, had been looking at a very ugly vase in the hallway, suddenly whipped her head back around to gape at Rebecca.
'What?! What did you say?'
'I said that Julian thought it was ridiculous too.'
'No, after that!'
Rebecca had to think. She then nodded.
'Oh, Alistair has left him in charge of everything.'
Ivy nodded with a calm she did not feel. There was no way in the hell that Alistair Crane, meddling and loathsome bastard that he was, had just up and decided to kick back and give Julian control of the reins! Someone had decided to give him a vacation. And that someone was probably Julian.
Rebecca began yacking on about other things, but Ivy had checked out long ago. What had suddenly caused her sniveling ex to grow a backbone?
But, as usual, Ivy's thoughts went back to Sam and her predicament with him. Grace had found out that she wasn't going to her physical therapy classes. No, she had not. For if she did get better, then she would have to move out of Sam and Grace's house. So for now, Ivy decided to stay good and paralyzed!
****
Simone Russell tossed the mail on to a table and looked around the house. It was quiet. She knew her father had went back to work, and seemed to be throwing his all into the coaching the boys varsity basketball team this year. While she never got to see him, Simone was just happy he wasn't hanging around the house, moping over Mom.
Pilar's car was out front though, so Simone knew she was around. She liked Pilar. Pilar, in many ways, listened to her like her mother never did. Her mother always just took Whitney's side.
Simone swallowed guiltily, That wasn't fair. And it wasn't always true. She guessed she was just having one of those days.
Simone walked into the kitchen, and found Pilar looking at something that resembled photographs. They were about 8 x 11. But that wasn't hit Simone immediately. It was that Pilar looked pretty damned gorgeous!
She was dressed in a designer pants suit, and her hair was swept up. When she saw Simone, she jumped, then shoved the photographs inside an envelope.
'Simone! I didn't expect you home so soon.'
Simone nodded smiling.
'What's this? You look pretty fancy there.'
Pilar looked embarrassed.
'Would you believe Sheridan bought this for me in Paris. Her and Luis want to meet me at some fancy restaurant...I didn't want to go looking bad.'
Simone waved a hand at her.
'You could never look bad, Pilar. Well have a good time. Will you be back tomorrow?'
Pilar gave the girl a sympathetic look.
'I don't really think you all need me anymore.'
Simone's eyes widened.
'Of course we do! I know Daddy is at work and I have classes, but you are family, Pilar.'
Pilar nodded, then hugged her.
'I feel the same way. But you know, you do have Whitney...'
Simone pulled away abruptly.
'Don't mention that bitch's name to me!'
'Simone! Don't talk about your sister like that!'
Simone turned away from her.
'I'm sorry, Pilar! But you used to work for the Cranes! You know how despicable they are! And after what we found out about my mother and Julian Crane...how Whitney could disrespect our mother's memory like that is beyond me!'
Pilar rubbed her shoulder.
'I have to get going, but let's have lunch tomorrow at the book cafe. Maybe I can get Teresa to join us?'
Simone nodded. But she didn't want to see Teresa. Everyone knew she was on Whitney's side, no matter how wrong she was!
Pilar gave Simone's shoulder a squeeze, then walked out of the kitchen, carrying the envelope. She walked through the living room, picking up a purse that matched her suit, then walked towards the front door. She opened it, stepped out, then closed it behind her.
Only when Pilar was safely outside, did she stop to pull the pictures out of the envelope. They were photographs of Liz Sanbourne looking at cars at the edge of Harmony Swamp. Pilar raised a brow, shoved the pictures back inside the envelope, then walked to her car.
