Chapter 13
Julian visits Eve. Tony's illness progresses.
SALEM
The rain was just beginning to let up, when Julian's limo pulled into the circular drive outside of the Alamian estate. The headlights beamed onto the the realtor, a perky woman named Tess Rogers.
As soon as the limo stopped, Julian leaned forward.
'Get my luggage and the other items out of the trunk and bring them in.' he ordered the driver. He then got out and walked over to Tess. He held out his hand.
'I'm Julian Crane.'
'Oh, yes I know!' she gushed, unable to believe her luck. Selling this place had been a godsend! The home had been empty for a few years now. Word always got around that one of the inhabitants had buried someone alive, and for some reason, it turned people off. Tess couldn't understand it. It wasn't like the woman had been buried on the property or anything!
'Yes, well, just let me have the paperwork and we can conclude our business.' Julian said, his eyes straying from Tess, to the DiMera mansion, off in the distance. He was desperate to see Eve with own two eyes, and still at a loss as to how to make his presence known to her, without alerting Tony.
'Anyway, I thought I'd show you around the estate a bit. At least as much as I can, it's getting dark.'
Julian returned his attention to the woman in front of him.
'No, actually I'm familiar with the grounds. I was here a few times when Lawrence Alamain was the owner. But thank you, your services are no longer needed. Let me see the paperwork.'
Tess was at a loss for words. Someone of Julian Crane's ilk, buying a house, practically sight unseen, at night...and now he didn't want to be shown around at all?
Tess looked in her briefcase, that served as a purse as well. She handed him some papers and a pen. He took the papers, ignored her pen, pulled his own out of his suit jacket, scanned the contents, then used the car to sign them on. He then handed Tess back the papers.
'Alright. Well, call me if you have any questions.' Tess said quietly. She looked behind her towards the garages.
'The automobile dealer delivered two cars. They're over by the garages back there. Mr. Crane, there's no furniture...I mean what will you sleep on? Or can I recommend a good hotel here in town or...'
'I'll be fine. Thank you again.' Julian repeated, struggling to keep his patience, and feeling slightly guilty about that. He could understand his woman's curiosity about his eagerness to own this estate and the other questions it conjured up. But he didn't have the time for small talk right now!
Tess Rogers gave him a lukewarm smile and almost bowed, as she eased away. Julian turned away from her and looked over the front of the house. He was sure that the nice, fat commission Ms. Rogers received for this sale, would soothe her ruffled fur.
Tess had handed the limo driver the keys to the home. He walked in with some of Julian's luggage. Julian, who ordinarily wouldn't have carried his own items, felt an urgent need to speed things along. He walked to the back of the limo, pulled out the last bag and the very important item he had brought along. A telescope.
Julian reasoned he would have to be able to see what was going on in the DiMera abode, just to get a feel as to what he was walking in on. And so he could watch Eve privately.
The limo driver came out of the house and walked over to him. He reached towards Julian, as if to take the items from him. But Julian stepped back.
'Thank you, but I've got it. I won't be needing your services in Salem.'
The limo driver nodded.
'Well, it's still early. If I go now I can get back to Harmony in a few hours. Your bags are by the stairs.' The limo driver then reached into his pocket.
'Here are the keys. Goodnight and good luck, Mr. Crane.'
'Thank you,' Julian answered. 'I'm going to need it.'
The limo driver then walked over to the driver's side of the limo, got in and drove away. Julian stood in the drive a moment, his eyes focused on the DiMera estate. The first task was finding a good vantage point for his trusty telescope.
****
Eve sat in the little nursery Tony had had made up for Theo. She was sitting in a rocking chair, holding Theo and lulling him to sleep.
The baby had awakened after a very short nap, squalling. Eve felt badly for baby Theo, because she suspected he was missing his parents. But she figured they wouldn't be gone long.
Eve then gently stood up and walked over to the crib, placing Theo into it. She watched him for a few moments, before easing away and out of the room. She turned off the light before closing the door.
Her room was next door. She walked in, closing the door behind her. Tony said he had planned a special meal for the two of them. She walked over to her closet and pulled out a few outfits that Tony had purchased for her. She then began to slip off the clothes she was already wearing.
****
Tony erased the message from Dr. Case. He knew how serious his condition was, but at the moment, he wanted nothing to spoil this time with Eve. And tonight, he had decided that he wanted, no, he had to make love to her tonight.
Tony sensed that she felt the same way, or at least, he hoped she did. Tonight would be the test. He would know after dinner if Eve would be sharing his bed permanently.
Tony stared at the answering machine. After the barbecue was over, he would contact Dr. Case and make arrangements to begin treatment right away. He wanted nothing, especially the return of his blood disease, to take him away from Eve.
****
Julian found a perfect vantage point, from of all places, his bedroom, or at least, the room he decided he was going to sleep in.
He focused the telescope, scanning the windows that didn't have curtains. Downstairs, the servants seemed to be preparing dinner. One maid set a pair of candle sticks on a table.
Julian began to feel uneasy, and looked away for a moment, wiping his face. A candlelight dinner? Did DiMera and Eve always eat by candlelight, or was tonight special? He didn't like the 'seduction scene' vibe he was getting. He returned to scanning for Eve.
His focus hit DiMera, who had just gotten out of the shower. The sight of him naked was something Julian could do without! He looked away again, rubbing his eyes, almost wishing that he were blind. The thought of that man with Eve was just too vile to imagine!
Julian took a deep breath, turning the telescope a few degrees. God! He hoped like hell when he looked into this thing again, he wouldn't have to look at DiMera's hairy looking ass!
Julian peered through the lense again. His breath suddenly caught and his mouth dropped open.
Eve was naked, and gloriously so! She appeared to be looking over a few dresses, which she had sprawled over the bed. She picked up a red one and began to slip it on.
'No!' Julian practically growled, angry at how much of the dress covered her luscious body. Why had she had to put it on now?! Oh, Eve was definitely very much alive! His father had not lied about that!
Julian reluctantly stopped looking and began to think about a few things. Was it possible that Eve did not have amnesia, and had just figured she had nothing to return to? She was at odds with her family when she had had her accident.
But Julian just couldn't see her staying here, living with some man she barely knew, without trying to reach out, if not to T.C., but at least to Whitney and Simone. Yet, she had forsaken her parents, and sister, once before, long ago, for him.
Julian understood that Eve wouldn't have come to him now, out of respect for his new marriage to Rebecca. But to let everyone believe she was dead?
He shook his head. Alistair was probably telling the truth. Eve wouldn't have done any of this purposely. Julian then began to wonder if DiMera had told her something, something that caused her to believe that she had no family to come back to.
Julian looked through the telescope again. Eve had apparently decided on the red dress, because she was not in her room anymore. He moved the telescope back towards DiMera's room. He was gone as well.
Julian then adjusted the scope, so that he could peer into the dining-room. Tony was helping Eve into a chair. Julian stopped peering. He had just about had it! He wasn't going to sit back and come up with some master plan! From the looks of things, there was no time for that!
Julian was just going to burst in and take Eve out of there! First, he was going to tell her who she really was! When Eve realized that Tony had lied to her, she would be more than willing to get the hell out of there, pronto!
Julian left the room, hurried down the hall and rushed down the stairs. He grabbed the keys to the house, walked out of the front door, slamming it behind him. He then trekked over to the garages, and got into one of the two cars the dealership had delivered to his new home. The doors were unlocked and the keys were on the dashboards.
Julian jumped into the first one he reached, started it, then drove the very short distance over to the DiMera estate. The gate was left open, and Julian gunned his car up the hill and onto the drive outside of the house. He then jumped out of the car, leaving the door open.
Julian walked up to the front door and leaned on the bell.
****
Tony wiped the beads of sweat off of his forehead. Something was wrong! Eve was beginning to swim before him. Not now! If this cursed disease could just wait a little longer to debilitate him, he could then get to Dr. Case for treatment! But not tonight! Not on his special night with Eve!
Eve grabbed his hand.
'Tony? Are you alright?'
Tony wiped his forehead.
'I'm fine, my darling. I'll tell you what: let's dance?'
Eve looked at him, worriedly.
'There's no music.'
'Well, we'll just have to get some, won't we?' he said, standing up a bit too suddenly. He weaved back, then dropped to the floor!
'Tony!' Eve screamed, jumping up from her seat and leaning down into him. She found herself feeling for a pulse. It felt very weak!
'Tony, please, I'm going to go get help! Just don't die! I love you!' she cried out. Eve then jumped up and ran from the dining room to look for one of the servants.
****
The maid gave Julian a dirty look when she finally opened the door.
'I heard you the first time.' she sniffed.
Julian ignored her surly tone.
'My name is Julian Crane. I'm a business associate of Mr. DiMera's. I need to speak to him, right away.'
'He's having dinner and asked not to be disturbed, now if you want to...'
Eve's scream caused the maid to jump, and Julian to shove into the house past her. She came running from the dining room, and stopped short when she saw him.
Eve's eyes widened! Who was that man? The man at the door...he was the one that appeared in her dreams! The one that always told her he loved her!
Julian, for his part, sensed that Eve recognized him, and took a few tentative steps towards her.
'Hello, Eve.'
Eve's eyes got bigger.
'Uh...hello...'
She then snapped herself out of her shock at seeing Julian, and looked at the maid.
'Tony has collapsed! His pulse is weak...I'm so scared!'
The maid hurried back into the dining room. Another servant picked up a portable phone and called 911.
Eve turned away from the man and folded her hands. She couldn't think about him right now! Tony was sick and that was all that mattered. But...this man had called her 'Eve'. He knew her. Maybe from Minnesota?
She turned back to him and was startled at the intensity of his gaze.
'I'm sorry Mr...Mr...'
Julian walked up to her and closed in, until Eve felt as if she had no personal space left! She tried to back away, but ended up backed against a wall!
'It's Julian. Julian Crane.' he said. Then his mouth swooped down on hers! Eve tried to push him away, but found herself responding to his kiss...briefly. She suddenly shoved him away and slapped him hard!
Julian backed away a bit, rubbing his cheek. He then grinned at her. He had always loved the prim, prudish manner she displayed when she was afraid of giving into their passion. And she had given in to his kiss!
Julian was also more sure than ever, that for the briefest moment, she had recognized him.
Eve glared at him! Who the hell was this guy? First he interrupts their dinner, then he practically forces himself on her! Maybe she was wrong about him being the man in her dreams? He couldn't be the same man!
The maid came running back out and opened the front door. Eve gave Julian a dirty look, before walking over to her. The maid looked at her.
'The paramedics should be here within minutes. I can hear the sirens now.'
Eve nodded, her mind now back on Tony. Why would he just collapse like that? He had seemed fine all day.
'I'm going outside to wait for them.' the maid told Eve. Eve nodded, clasping her hands together nervously. She then turned to go back to Tony, but ran right into that horrible man named Julian!
'Get out of my way!' she snapped. Whoever this man was, what he just did, taking liberties with her while Tony could be dying, was unforgivable!
Julian could see he had upset her. Personally, he hoped DiMera died. But, he put on a sympathetic face.
'Eve, I'm sorry. What I did was uncalled for. I'm a friend of Tony's and I just wanted to visit with him. I moved in next door.'
Eve didn't respond and turned back around towards the paramedics, as they rushed in. If this Julian was a friend of Tony's, then he must've heard about her from him. That's how he knew her name.
'He's in there!' Eve cried, and followed the paramedics into the dining-room, leaving Julian alone in the hallway. The maid walked back inside the house and eyed him. She did not say anything to him. Julian turned away from her and mulled over what had just happened.
He now fully believed Eve had no real memory of him, at least not a conscious one. She did seem to care for DiMera though. That he would worry about later. He also took note that if she did indeed remember anything, her medical skills would've kicked in when DiMera collapsed. Eve acted as if she knew nothing. And that was because in her mind, she did indeed, know nothing about the medical profession.
Julian turned, as the paramedics and Eve came rushing out. DiMera was on a stretcher, unconscious. Julian glanced at him. When he had viewed Tony through the telescope, he had seemed healthy as a horse. Julian wondered what had brought all of this on?
'Can I go with him?' Eve asked, her voice trembling.
Julian walked over and interrupted.
'I'll drive her to the hospital.' he said. Eve looked back at him. She then turned back and shook her head at the paramedics.
'I...uh...no, I'll just come with you!'
But the paramedics, hearing Julian's offer to give Eve a ride over, only listened to his answer, and rushed off towards the ambulance. Julian walked up behind Eve, resisting the temptation to kiss one of her bare shoulders.
'Come now, I'll drive you. I'll be good, I promise.'
Eve didn't turn to look at him. She just nodded. She didn't have much of a choice. Her license was somewhere underwater!
****
Seemingly, minutes later, Eve gathered her bearings and managed to get the hell out Julian Crane's car! That maniac had followed the ambulance to a tee, driving like a bat out of hell! Where were the police when you needed them?!
Eve got out, without waiting for Julian to come around and open her car door. She then rushed in. She could see that Tony was being ushered into an exam room.
John Black, who had come by the hospital to pick up his wife for a late dinner, caught a glimpse of his brother going by on a stretcher. He then saw Eve's stricken face and guessed who she was. He approached her.
'Eve?'
Eve looked at him blankly.
'I'm John Black. Tony is my half-brother.'
Eve nodded, smiling weakly.
'I'm sorry. I'm sure Tony has mentioned you and I just forgot.'
John smiled at her.
'No he hasn't. But thanks anyway. What's happened?'
Eve sniffed. She felt so overwhelmed! Tony's unexplainable collapse, then that man showing up and kissing her like that! He kissed her as if he had a right to! And for the briefest moment, kissing him back had seemed like a perfectly natural thing to do. But why?
'I don't know. One moment we're having dinner, then he started to perspire, then he collapsed. He was fine today, John. He was so looking forward to the barbecue tomorrow. What am I going to do? We can't have a party now!'
John put an arm around her shoulders. He then looked behind her and frowned. He then pulled away from Eve.
'Julian Crane?'
Eve turned around and looked at Julian. He was keeping his distance, a few feet back. She then turned away and began walking towards the exam room she saw Tony being wheeled off to.
Julian walked over to John.
'John Black. How are you?' he asked, trying to keep his eyes on Eve.
John, noticed him watching Eve, then answered.
'Good. Business is good. What brings you to Salem?' he asked.
Julian focused on John, tearing his eyes away from Eve.
'I actually purchased the property next to Tony's. You know, a little home away from home. I am actually here for the barbecue. Anyway, I was over visiting with Tony and Eve, when he collapsed. I thought I would give Eve a ride here. She really seems quite upset.'
John raised a brow and nodded.
'Yes. I had the feeling things were serious between them.' John answered.
Julian didn't care for that answer! But he kept his tone light.
'What makes you say that?' he asked.
'Oh, yeah, I guess you wouldn't know, but this barbecue was more about introducing Eve as the special woman in Tony's life, than a social gathering.'
Julian nodded slowly. Very interesting. Looks like mother nature kicked in just in time! And in Julian's favor!
John looked behind Julian and saw Roman Brady advancing on them. Julian turned as well.
'Roman? What brings you by here?' John asked.
Roman looked around John and Julian.
'I heard DiMera's been brought here. I have some questions for him.'
John glanced at Julian, who glanced over at Eve. This sounded serious.
'I just found out about his collapse a few minutes ago. But I don't think he is conscious. What's going on?' Johns asked.
Roman pulled John away from Julian.
'Abe is missing. He doesn't respond to any calls, whether it's his car radio or his cell. Is Lexie here?'
John shrugged.
'I don't know. Let's find out. Besides, she'll want to know about Tony as well.'
Meanwhile, Eve had walked back over towards John and Roman. She overheard Roman's question. She interrupted.
'Lexie and Abe had to leave town. On a family emergency.' she said in a soft voice. Julian moved closer to her. Roman walked up to her.
'Who are you?' he asked in a rough voice.
'My name is Eve Lincoln. I've been staying with Tony.'
Eve Lincoln?! Julian thought. Where the hell had DiMera gotten that last name for Eve?!
'You saw them leave?' Roman asked.
'Uh, no. They were just suddenly gone. Tony and I have been taking care of Theo.'
'Did Tony say what kind of emergency?' Roman pressed.
Eve got the distinct impression that something was terribly wrong here! And it wasn't just Tony's medical condition!
'Tony said that someone in Abe's family had died suddenly.'
Roman folded his arms.
'Then that would've had to have been either his brother, Jonah, or his son, Brandon. Since they are all of the family Abe has. And I'm willing to bet that if I checked, I'd find that they're both still alive. You'd better come up with a better story than that!'
Julian decided now was the time to step in! He didn't know what was going on here, but it was obvious that this officer believed something sinister had happened to this Abe and his wife. It was also obvious that Eve knew nothing either. And the stress was wearing on her. He loved her, he truly did, but if he didn't protect her from this interrogation, the poor thing was liable to set something on fire!
Julian moved next to Eve and slipped a hand around her waist. He then whispered to her.
'It will be alright, darling. Just let me do the talking.'
Eve nodded, not caring that once again, he was being more familiar with her, than what was appropriate. This police officer was saying that Tony lied about Abe and Lexie! That was ridiculous! Why would he do that?!
John took note of Julian's hand on Eve's waist. He would also swear he saw him mouth the word, 'darling'. He slid away from the commotion and headed to Marlena's office.
'Who are you?' Roman demanded.
'I'm Julian Crane. I'm Mr. DiMera's neighbor and a friend of Eve's. If you have any more questions, you can contact her through my attorney.'
Julian then let go of Eve and reached into his inside suit pocket. He pulled out a card and handed it to Roman. Roman snatched it from him. He looked at Eve.
'We're not through. You will be seeing me again.'
Eve's eyes widened. Why was she being treated like a criminal? What was going on?
She barely felt Julian turn her towards him.
'Eve, I need for you to listen to me: there is nothing you can do for Tony now. The hospital will let you know when he regains consciousness.'
Eve began to shake her head.
'No! I have to stay here until he wakes up! Why am I telling you this? Your good deed is done! I'll take a cab home!'
Julian grabbed her arms, harder then he meant to. Eve flinched, but that could not be helped. For Julian just realized that 'Lexie' was Celeste's daughter. And he had no doubt, that it was no coincidence that she and her husband could not be found. Every person near Eve, up and disappeared. And if DiMera had not collapsed tonight, Julian had no doubt that he would've turned up missing as well!
'Eve, there are things you don't know about this family. I know you feel as if you don't know me, but I'm begging you to trust me. You cannot go back to that house. It won't be long before the police will want to search it!'
'Why?! Tony hasn't done anything wrong! I haven't done anything either! And Theo is still there! I have to go back and get him!'
'Lexie's child?' Julian asked.
'Yes! I can't just leave him!'
A doctor came out. Eve tore herself from Julian's grip. She and Roman, rushed over to him.
'How is he?' Eve asked, looking fearful.
'I'm sorry. But Mr. DiMera has slipped into a coma.' the doctor said regretfully.
****
John walked into his wife's office and closed the door firmly. Marlena Black was just finishing up her paperwork. She stood up and walked over to his, giving him a quick kiss.
'Hey! Let me just get my purse and...'
The look on his face changed her mood.
'What is it? What's wrong?'
John leaned against her office door.
'Tony was brought in tonight. He just collapsed.'
'Oh.' Marlena said, rubbing his shoulder. 'Do you think his blood disease is back?'
John shrugged.
'I don't know. But there's a lot going on out there.'
'What do you mean?' Marlena asked.
'Eve is here.'
Marlena tilted her head.
'Tony's Eve? The woman we were going to meet at the barbecue tomorrow?'
'Yeah. She's beautiful. Anyway, Julian Crane is also here.'
Marlena walked back over to her desk and picked up her purse. She turned off her desk light.
'Julian Crane?'
'He and his father, Alistair, practically own a small town, north of here, called Harmony.'
Marlena nodded.
'Yes, I've been there a few times, for seminars. Okay, I can see that this man's presence here is bothering you, why?'
'Doc, it's not bothering me, per say. He told me he bought the property next to Tony's, and that he's friends with him. But, the only person he's been friendly with is Eve.'
'I don't understand.'
John sighed.
'Awhile back, we received an invitation to Crane's wedding. That was the weekend we went out of town, so I had my secretary rsvp. Monday, someone, and for the life of me, I can't remember who, told me that they had went to the wedding. And either during the ceremony or at the reception, some kind of scuffle started.'
Marlena sat down on her couch. John walked away from the door and joined her.
'What kind of scuffle?' she asked.
'I can't remember. All I know is, Crane is here without his wife, looking at Tony's girlfriend as if he's in love with her. To make matters worse, Roman is here.'
'Roman? Why?'
'Because he thinks Lexie and Abe are missing. He really laid into Eve, who I believe knows nothing about it. Julian came to her defense. But Roman had that look...you know...when he thinks Stefano might be involved.'
'Oh God, no! Though we shouldn't be surprised! That piece of dirt just won't die! You know, let's have a looksee on the Internet. Maybe there's something on there about Julian Crane's recent nuptials.
John nodded. They both stood up and walked over to her computer. Marlena turned it on.
****
BERMUDA
Fox woke up with a smile on his face. He was holding a still sleeping Whitney in his arms. Last night had been what he had always dreamed it would be. And Whitney wanted to be here. She had wanted what had happened just as much as he did.
Fox felt her stir and let go of her, briefly wondering how his father was doing with Dr. Russell. Whitney then stretched and looked over at him. Fox was a bit startled. The look in her eyes looked like regret.
Fox sat up, putting on a positive face.
'Good morning. How did you sleep?'
Whitney ran a hand through her hair, then sat up as well.
'Fine. Probably the best sleep I've had in a long time.'
Okay, Fox thought. That didn't sound bad!
'Fox, about what happened last night....'
'Whitney, please don't be sorry about it.'
Whitney turned her body so that she was facing him.
'Fox, after what happened, our friendship is ruined. Things will never be the same.'
'They're not supposed to be.'
'Fox...'
'Whitney, I never wanted you as a friend. Not since the night I heard you sing at the Blue Note.'
Whitney was stunned into silence. She didn't say anything. Fox pressed on.
'I understand that you've been through a lot. And I'm not going to pressure you in anyway. But I do ask that you don't close your heart off to me. That you stay open to the idea of us.'
Now Whitney really didn't know what to say! She remembered his drunken, yet heartfelt words at his father's wedding reception. To think that he had cared about her all of this time. That she was the girl he kept alluding to being in love with, when Whitney assumed this was someone who lived in California somewhere!
'Fox, I would be lying if I didn't admit that the parallels of this thing scare me.'
'Parallels?'
'Your father and my mother! And look what a disaster that turned out to be.'
'It was a disaster, Whitney, because my father was not strong enough to stand up to my Grandfather. I'm not Julian.'
'And your Grandfather? Has he changed with the times?'
'Alistair Crane is not a factor in my life. He won't be in yours.'
Whitney rubbed his arm.
'I'm going to go take a shower. Let's just take this one day at a time, okay?'
Fox nodded, then watched as she draped a sheet around herself and walked into the bathroom. He smiled. One day, hopefully soon, Whitney wouldn't feel the need to be so modest. And, maybe she would ask for company with her showers! Finally, she had said she wanted to take this one step at a time, meaning, she wasn't against the idea of the two of them being together.
Fox got up as well. Today was a day of work. He had a month to make Whitney his. Just the idea of living a life free of Alistair Crane's interference, gave him hope for the future. Hope of having a future. For he didn't want to even think about what kind of a wife his grandfather would pick out for him!
Julian visits Eve. Tony's illness progresses.
SALEM
The rain was just beginning to let up, when Julian's limo pulled into the circular drive outside of the Alamian estate. The headlights beamed onto the the realtor, a perky woman named Tess Rogers.
As soon as the limo stopped, Julian leaned forward.
'Get my luggage and the other items out of the trunk and bring them in.' he ordered the driver. He then got out and walked over to Tess. He held out his hand.
'I'm Julian Crane.'
'Oh, yes I know!' she gushed, unable to believe her luck. Selling this place had been a godsend! The home had been empty for a few years now. Word always got around that one of the inhabitants had buried someone alive, and for some reason, it turned people off. Tess couldn't understand it. It wasn't like the woman had been buried on the property or anything!
'Yes, well, just let me have the paperwork and we can conclude our business.' Julian said, his eyes straying from Tess, to the DiMera mansion, off in the distance. He was desperate to see Eve with own two eyes, and still at a loss as to how to make his presence known to her, without alerting Tony.
'Anyway, I thought I'd show you around the estate a bit. At least as much as I can, it's getting dark.'
Julian returned his attention to the woman in front of him.
'No, actually I'm familiar with the grounds. I was here a few times when Lawrence Alamain was the owner. But thank you, your services are no longer needed. Let me see the paperwork.'
Tess was at a loss for words. Someone of Julian Crane's ilk, buying a house, practically sight unseen, at night...and now he didn't want to be shown around at all?
Tess looked in her briefcase, that served as a purse as well. She handed him some papers and a pen. He took the papers, ignored her pen, pulled his own out of his suit jacket, scanned the contents, then used the car to sign them on. He then handed Tess back the papers.
'Alright. Well, call me if you have any questions.' Tess said quietly. She looked behind her towards the garages.
'The automobile dealer delivered two cars. They're over by the garages back there. Mr. Crane, there's no furniture...I mean what will you sleep on? Or can I recommend a good hotel here in town or...'
'I'll be fine. Thank you again.' Julian repeated, struggling to keep his patience, and feeling slightly guilty about that. He could understand his woman's curiosity about his eagerness to own this estate and the other questions it conjured up. But he didn't have the time for small talk right now!
Tess Rogers gave him a lukewarm smile and almost bowed, as she eased away. Julian turned away from her and looked over the front of the house. He was sure that the nice, fat commission Ms. Rogers received for this sale, would soothe her ruffled fur.
Tess had handed the limo driver the keys to the home. He walked in with some of Julian's luggage. Julian, who ordinarily wouldn't have carried his own items, felt an urgent need to speed things along. He walked to the back of the limo, pulled out the last bag and the very important item he had brought along. A telescope.
Julian reasoned he would have to be able to see what was going on in the DiMera abode, just to get a feel as to what he was walking in on. And so he could watch Eve privately.
The limo driver came out of the house and walked over to him. He reached towards Julian, as if to take the items from him. But Julian stepped back.
'Thank you, but I've got it. I won't be needing your services in Salem.'
The limo driver nodded.
'Well, it's still early. If I go now I can get back to Harmony in a few hours. Your bags are by the stairs.' The limo driver then reached into his pocket.
'Here are the keys. Goodnight and good luck, Mr. Crane.'
'Thank you,' Julian answered. 'I'm going to need it.'
The limo driver then walked over to the driver's side of the limo, got in and drove away. Julian stood in the drive a moment, his eyes focused on the DiMera estate. The first task was finding a good vantage point for his trusty telescope.
****
Eve sat in the little nursery Tony had had made up for Theo. She was sitting in a rocking chair, holding Theo and lulling him to sleep.
The baby had awakened after a very short nap, squalling. Eve felt badly for baby Theo, because she suspected he was missing his parents. But she figured they wouldn't be gone long.
Eve then gently stood up and walked over to the crib, placing Theo into it. She watched him for a few moments, before easing away and out of the room. She turned off the light before closing the door.
Her room was next door. She walked in, closing the door behind her. Tony said he had planned a special meal for the two of them. She walked over to her closet and pulled out a few outfits that Tony had purchased for her. She then began to slip off the clothes she was already wearing.
****
Tony erased the message from Dr. Case. He knew how serious his condition was, but at the moment, he wanted nothing to spoil this time with Eve. And tonight, he had decided that he wanted, no, he had to make love to her tonight.
Tony sensed that she felt the same way, or at least, he hoped she did. Tonight would be the test. He would know after dinner if Eve would be sharing his bed permanently.
Tony stared at the answering machine. After the barbecue was over, he would contact Dr. Case and make arrangements to begin treatment right away. He wanted nothing, especially the return of his blood disease, to take him away from Eve.
****
Julian found a perfect vantage point, from of all places, his bedroom, or at least, the room he decided he was going to sleep in.
He focused the telescope, scanning the windows that didn't have curtains. Downstairs, the servants seemed to be preparing dinner. One maid set a pair of candle sticks on a table.
Julian began to feel uneasy, and looked away for a moment, wiping his face. A candlelight dinner? Did DiMera and Eve always eat by candlelight, or was tonight special? He didn't like the 'seduction scene' vibe he was getting. He returned to scanning for Eve.
His focus hit DiMera, who had just gotten out of the shower. The sight of him naked was something Julian could do without! He looked away again, rubbing his eyes, almost wishing that he were blind. The thought of that man with Eve was just too vile to imagine!
Julian took a deep breath, turning the telescope a few degrees. God! He hoped like hell when he looked into this thing again, he wouldn't have to look at DiMera's hairy looking ass!
Julian peered through the lense again. His breath suddenly caught and his mouth dropped open.
Eve was naked, and gloriously so! She appeared to be looking over a few dresses, which she had sprawled over the bed. She picked up a red one and began to slip it on.
'No!' Julian practically growled, angry at how much of the dress covered her luscious body. Why had she had to put it on now?! Oh, Eve was definitely very much alive! His father had not lied about that!
Julian reluctantly stopped looking and began to think about a few things. Was it possible that Eve did not have amnesia, and had just figured she had nothing to return to? She was at odds with her family when she had had her accident.
But Julian just couldn't see her staying here, living with some man she barely knew, without trying to reach out, if not to T.C., but at least to Whitney and Simone. Yet, she had forsaken her parents, and sister, once before, long ago, for him.
Julian understood that Eve wouldn't have come to him now, out of respect for his new marriage to Rebecca. But to let everyone believe she was dead?
He shook his head. Alistair was probably telling the truth. Eve wouldn't have done any of this purposely. Julian then began to wonder if DiMera had told her something, something that caused her to believe that she had no family to come back to.
Julian looked through the telescope again. Eve had apparently decided on the red dress, because she was not in her room anymore. He moved the telescope back towards DiMera's room. He was gone as well.
Julian then adjusted the scope, so that he could peer into the dining-room. Tony was helping Eve into a chair. Julian stopped peering. He had just about had it! He wasn't going to sit back and come up with some master plan! From the looks of things, there was no time for that!
Julian was just going to burst in and take Eve out of there! First, he was going to tell her who she really was! When Eve realized that Tony had lied to her, she would be more than willing to get the hell out of there, pronto!
Julian left the room, hurried down the hall and rushed down the stairs. He grabbed the keys to the house, walked out of the front door, slamming it behind him. He then trekked over to the garages, and got into one of the two cars the dealership had delivered to his new home. The doors were unlocked and the keys were on the dashboards.
Julian jumped into the first one he reached, started it, then drove the very short distance over to the DiMera estate. The gate was left open, and Julian gunned his car up the hill and onto the drive outside of the house. He then jumped out of the car, leaving the door open.
Julian walked up to the front door and leaned on the bell.
****
Tony wiped the beads of sweat off of his forehead. Something was wrong! Eve was beginning to swim before him. Not now! If this cursed disease could just wait a little longer to debilitate him, he could then get to Dr. Case for treatment! But not tonight! Not on his special night with Eve!
Eve grabbed his hand.
'Tony? Are you alright?'
Tony wiped his forehead.
'I'm fine, my darling. I'll tell you what: let's dance?'
Eve looked at him, worriedly.
'There's no music.'
'Well, we'll just have to get some, won't we?' he said, standing up a bit too suddenly. He weaved back, then dropped to the floor!
'Tony!' Eve screamed, jumping up from her seat and leaning down into him. She found herself feeling for a pulse. It felt very weak!
'Tony, please, I'm going to go get help! Just don't die! I love you!' she cried out. Eve then jumped up and ran from the dining room to look for one of the servants.
****
The maid gave Julian a dirty look when she finally opened the door.
'I heard you the first time.' she sniffed.
Julian ignored her surly tone.
'My name is Julian Crane. I'm a business associate of Mr. DiMera's. I need to speak to him, right away.'
'He's having dinner and asked not to be disturbed, now if you want to...'
Eve's scream caused the maid to jump, and Julian to shove into the house past her. She came running from the dining room, and stopped short when she saw him.
Eve's eyes widened! Who was that man? The man at the door...he was the one that appeared in her dreams! The one that always told her he loved her!
Julian, for his part, sensed that Eve recognized him, and took a few tentative steps towards her.
'Hello, Eve.'
Eve's eyes got bigger.
'Uh...hello...'
She then snapped herself out of her shock at seeing Julian, and looked at the maid.
'Tony has collapsed! His pulse is weak...I'm so scared!'
The maid hurried back into the dining room. Another servant picked up a portable phone and called 911.
Eve turned away from the man and folded her hands. She couldn't think about him right now! Tony was sick and that was all that mattered. But...this man had called her 'Eve'. He knew her. Maybe from Minnesota?
She turned back to him and was startled at the intensity of his gaze.
'I'm sorry Mr...Mr...'
Julian walked up to her and closed in, until Eve felt as if she had no personal space left! She tried to back away, but ended up backed against a wall!
'It's Julian. Julian Crane.' he said. Then his mouth swooped down on hers! Eve tried to push him away, but found herself responding to his kiss...briefly. She suddenly shoved him away and slapped him hard!
Julian backed away a bit, rubbing his cheek. He then grinned at her. He had always loved the prim, prudish manner she displayed when she was afraid of giving into their passion. And she had given in to his kiss!
Julian was also more sure than ever, that for the briefest moment, she had recognized him.
Eve glared at him! Who the hell was this guy? First he interrupts their dinner, then he practically forces himself on her! Maybe she was wrong about him being the man in her dreams? He couldn't be the same man!
The maid came running back out and opened the front door. Eve gave Julian a dirty look, before walking over to her. The maid looked at her.
'The paramedics should be here within minutes. I can hear the sirens now.'
Eve nodded, her mind now back on Tony. Why would he just collapse like that? He had seemed fine all day.
'I'm going outside to wait for them.' the maid told Eve. Eve nodded, clasping her hands together nervously. She then turned to go back to Tony, but ran right into that horrible man named Julian!
'Get out of my way!' she snapped. Whoever this man was, what he just did, taking liberties with her while Tony could be dying, was unforgivable!
Julian could see he had upset her. Personally, he hoped DiMera died. But, he put on a sympathetic face.
'Eve, I'm sorry. What I did was uncalled for. I'm a friend of Tony's and I just wanted to visit with him. I moved in next door.'
Eve didn't respond and turned back around towards the paramedics, as they rushed in. If this Julian was a friend of Tony's, then he must've heard about her from him. That's how he knew her name.
'He's in there!' Eve cried, and followed the paramedics into the dining-room, leaving Julian alone in the hallway. The maid walked back inside the house and eyed him. She did not say anything to him. Julian turned away from her and mulled over what had just happened.
He now fully believed Eve had no real memory of him, at least not a conscious one. She did seem to care for DiMera though. That he would worry about later. He also took note that if she did indeed remember anything, her medical skills would've kicked in when DiMera collapsed. Eve acted as if she knew nothing. And that was because in her mind, she did indeed, know nothing about the medical profession.
Julian turned, as the paramedics and Eve came rushing out. DiMera was on a stretcher, unconscious. Julian glanced at him. When he had viewed Tony through the telescope, he had seemed healthy as a horse. Julian wondered what had brought all of this on?
'Can I go with him?' Eve asked, her voice trembling.
Julian walked over and interrupted.
'I'll drive her to the hospital.' he said. Eve looked back at him. She then turned back and shook her head at the paramedics.
'I...uh...no, I'll just come with you!'
But the paramedics, hearing Julian's offer to give Eve a ride over, only listened to his answer, and rushed off towards the ambulance. Julian walked up behind Eve, resisting the temptation to kiss one of her bare shoulders.
'Come now, I'll drive you. I'll be good, I promise.'
Eve didn't turn to look at him. She just nodded. She didn't have much of a choice. Her license was somewhere underwater!
****
Seemingly, minutes later, Eve gathered her bearings and managed to get the hell out Julian Crane's car! That maniac had followed the ambulance to a tee, driving like a bat out of hell! Where were the police when you needed them?!
Eve got out, without waiting for Julian to come around and open her car door. She then rushed in. She could see that Tony was being ushered into an exam room.
John Black, who had come by the hospital to pick up his wife for a late dinner, caught a glimpse of his brother going by on a stretcher. He then saw Eve's stricken face and guessed who she was. He approached her.
'Eve?'
Eve looked at him blankly.
'I'm John Black. Tony is my half-brother.'
Eve nodded, smiling weakly.
'I'm sorry. I'm sure Tony has mentioned you and I just forgot.'
John smiled at her.
'No he hasn't. But thanks anyway. What's happened?'
Eve sniffed. She felt so overwhelmed! Tony's unexplainable collapse, then that man showing up and kissing her like that! He kissed her as if he had a right to! And for the briefest moment, kissing him back had seemed like a perfectly natural thing to do. But why?
'I don't know. One moment we're having dinner, then he started to perspire, then he collapsed. He was fine today, John. He was so looking forward to the barbecue tomorrow. What am I going to do? We can't have a party now!'
John put an arm around her shoulders. He then looked behind her and frowned. He then pulled away from Eve.
'Julian Crane?'
Eve turned around and looked at Julian. He was keeping his distance, a few feet back. She then turned away and began walking towards the exam room she saw Tony being wheeled off to.
Julian walked over to John.
'John Black. How are you?' he asked, trying to keep his eyes on Eve.
John, noticed him watching Eve, then answered.
'Good. Business is good. What brings you to Salem?' he asked.
Julian focused on John, tearing his eyes away from Eve.
'I actually purchased the property next to Tony's. You know, a little home away from home. I am actually here for the barbecue. Anyway, I was over visiting with Tony and Eve, when he collapsed. I thought I would give Eve a ride here. She really seems quite upset.'
John raised a brow and nodded.
'Yes. I had the feeling things were serious between them.' John answered.
Julian didn't care for that answer! But he kept his tone light.
'What makes you say that?' he asked.
'Oh, yeah, I guess you wouldn't know, but this barbecue was more about introducing Eve as the special woman in Tony's life, than a social gathering.'
Julian nodded slowly. Very interesting. Looks like mother nature kicked in just in time! And in Julian's favor!
John looked behind Julian and saw Roman Brady advancing on them. Julian turned as well.
'Roman? What brings you by here?' John asked.
Roman looked around John and Julian.
'I heard DiMera's been brought here. I have some questions for him.'
John glanced at Julian, who glanced over at Eve. This sounded serious.
'I just found out about his collapse a few minutes ago. But I don't think he is conscious. What's going on?' Johns asked.
Roman pulled John away from Julian.
'Abe is missing. He doesn't respond to any calls, whether it's his car radio or his cell. Is Lexie here?'
John shrugged.
'I don't know. Let's find out. Besides, she'll want to know about Tony as well.'
Meanwhile, Eve had walked back over towards John and Roman. She overheard Roman's question. She interrupted.
'Lexie and Abe had to leave town. On a family emergency.' she said in a soft voice. Julian moved closer to her. Roman walked up to her.
'Who are you?' he asked in a rough voice.
'My name is Eve Lincoln. I've been staying with Tony.'
Eve Lincoln?! Julian thought. Where the hell had DiMera gotten that last name for Eve?!
'You saw them leave?' Roman asked.
'Uh, no. They were just suddenly gone. Tony and I have been taking care of Theo.'
'Did Tony say what kind of emergency?' Roman pressed.
Eve got the distinct impression that something was terribly wrong here! And it wasn't just Tony's medical condition!
'Tony said that someone in Abe's family had died suddenly.'
Roman folded his arms.
'Then that would've had to have been either his brother, Jonah, or his son, Brandon. Since they are all of the family Abe has. And I'm willing to bet that if I checked, I'd find that they're both still alive. You'd better come up with a better story than that!'
Julian decided now was the time to step in! He didn't know what was going on here, but it was obvious that this officer believed something sinister had happened to this Abe and his wife. It was also obvious that Eve knew nothing either. And the stress was wearing on her. He loved her, he truly did, but if he didn't protect her from this interrogation, the poor thing was liable to set something on fire!
Julian moved next to Eve and slipped a hand around her waist. He then whispered to her.
'It will be alright, darling. Just let me do the talking.'
Eve nodded, not caring that once again, he was being more familiar with her, than what was appropriate. This police officer was saying that Tony lied about Abe and Lexie! That was ridiculous! Why would he do that?!
John took note of Julian's hand on Eve's waist. He would also swear he saw him mouth the word, 'darling'. He slid away from the commotion and headed to Marlena's office.
'Who are you?' Roman demanded.
'I'm Julian Crane. I'm Mr. DiMera's neighbor and a friend of Eve's. If you have any more questions, you can contact her through my attorney.'
Julian then let go of Eve and reached into his inside suit pocket. He pulled out a card and handed it to Roman. Roman snatched it from him. He looked at Eve.
'We're not through. You will be seeing me again.'
Eve's eyes widened. Why was she being treated like a criminal? What was going on?
She barely felt Julian turn her towards him.
'Eve, I need for you to listen to me: there is nothing you can do for Tony now. The hospital will let you know when he regains consciousness.'
Eve began to shake her head.
'No! I have to stay here until he wakes up! Why am I telling you this? Your good deed is done! I'll take a cab home!'
Julian grabbed her arms, harder then he meant to. Eve flinched, but that could not be helped. For Julian just realized that 'Lexie' was Celeste's daughter. And he had no doubt, that it was no coincidence that she and her husband could not be found. Every person near Eve, up and disappeared. And if DiMera had not collapsed tonight, Julian had no doubt that he would've turned up missing as well!
'Eve, there are things you don't know about this family. I know you feel as if you don't know me, but I'm begging you to trust me. You cannot go back to that house. It won't be long before the police will want to search it!'
'Why?! Tony hasn't done anything wrong! I haven't done anything either! And Theo is still there! I have to go back and get him!'
'Lexie's child?' Julian asked.
'Yes! I can't just leave him!'
A doctor came out. Eve tore herself from Julian's grip. She and Roman, rushed over to him.
'How is he?' Eve asked, looking fearful.
'I'm sorry. But Mr. DiMera has slipped into a coma.' the doctor said regretfully.
****
John walked into his wife's office and closed the door firmly. Marlena Black was just finishing up her paperwork. She stood up and walked over to his, giving him a quick kiss.
'Hey! Let me just get my purse and...'
The look on his face changed her mood.
'What is it? What's wrong?'
John leaned against her office door.
'Tony was brought in tonight. He just collapsed.'
'Oh.' Marlena said, rubbing his shoulder. 'Do you think his blood disease is back?'
John shrugged.
'I don't know. But there's a lot going on out there.'
'What do you mean?' Marlena asked.
'Eve is here.'
Marlena tilted her head.
'Tony's Eve? The woman we were going to meet at the barbecue tomorrow?'
'Yeah. She's beautiful. Anyway, Julian Crane is also here.'
Marlena walked back over to her desk and picked up her purse. She turned off her desk light.
'Julian Crane?'
'He and his father, Alistair, practically own a small town, north of here, called Harmony.'
Marlena nodded.
'Yes, I've been there a few times, for seminars. Okay, I can see that this man's presence here is bothering you, why?'
'Doc, it's not bothering me, per say. He told me he bought the property next to Tony's, and that he's friends with him. But, the only person he's been friendly with is Eve.'
'I don't understand.'
John sighed.
'Awhile back, we received an invitation to Crane's wedding. That was the weekend we went out of town, so I had my secretary rsvp. Monday, someone, and for the life of me, I can't remember who, told me that they had went to the wedding. And either during the ceremony or at the reception, some kind of scuffle started.'
Marlena sat down on her couch. John walked away from the door and joined her.
'What kind of scuffle?' she asked.
'I can't remember. All I know is, Crane is here without his wife, looking at Tony's girlfriend as if he's in love with her. To make matters worse, Roman is here.'
'Roman? Why?'
'Because he thinks Lexie and Abe are missing. He really laid into Eve, who I believe knows nothing about it. Julian came to her defense. But Roman had that look...you know...when he thinks Stefano might be involved.'
'Oh God, no! Though we shouldn't be surprised! That piece of dirt just won't die! You know, let's have a looksee on the Internet. Maybe there's something on there about Julian Crane's recent nuptials.
John nodded. They both stood up and walked over to her computer. Marlena turned it on.
****
BERMUDA
Fox woke up with a smile on his face. He was holding a still sleeping Whitney in his arms. Last night had been what he had always dreamed it would be. And Whitney wanted to be here. She had wanted what had happened just as much as he did.
Fox felt her stir and let go of her, briefly wondering how his father was doing with Dr. Russell. Whitney then stretched and looked over at him. Fox was a bit startled. The look in her eyes looked like regret.
Fox sat up, putting on a positive face.
'Good morning. How did you sleep?'
Whitney ran a hand through her hair, then sat up as well.
'Fine. Probably the best sleep I've had in a long time.'
Okay, Fox thought. That didn't sound bad!
'Fox, about what happened last night....'
'Whitney, please don't be sorry about it.'
Whitney turned her body so that she was facing him.
'Fox, after what happened, our friendship is ruined. Things will never be the same.'
'They're not supposed to be.'
'Fox...'
'Whitney, I never wanted you as a friend. Not since the night I heard you sing at the Blue Note.'
Whitney was stunned into silence. She didn't say anything. Fox pressed on.
'I understand that you've been through a lot. And I'm not going to pressure you in anyway. But I do ask that you don't close your heart off to me. That you stay open to the idea of us.'
Now Whitney really didn't know what to say! She remembered his drunken, yet heartfelt words at his father's wedding reception. To think that he had cared about her all of this time. That she was the girl he kept alluding to being in love with, when Whitney assumed this was someone who lived in California somewhere!
'Fox, I would be lying if I didn't admit that the parallels of this thing scare me.'
'Parallels?'
'Your father and my mother! And look what a disaster that turned out to be.'
'It was a disaster, Whitney, because my father was not strong enough to stand up to my Grandfather. I'm not Julian.'
'And your Grandfather? Has he changed with the times?'
'Alistair Crane is not a factor in my life. He won't be in yours.'
Whitney rubbed his arm.
'I'm going to go take a shower. Let's just take this one day at a time, okay?'
Fox nodded, then watched as she draped a sheet around herself and walked into the bathroom. He smiled. One day, hopefully soon, Whitney wouldn't feel the need to be so modest. And, maybe she would ask for company with her showers! Finally, she had said she wanted to take this one step at a time, meaning, she wasn't against the idea of the two of them being together.
Fox got up as well. Today was a day of work. He had a month to make Whitney his. Just the idea of living a life free of Alistair Crane's interference, gave him hope for the future. Hope of having a future. For he didn't want to even think about what kind of a wife his grandfather would pick out for him!
