Chapter 3
Fox finds John in an unusual place. Whitney and Teresa get a surprise when they visit Ivy.
Fox knocked for the fifth time on John's dorm room door. The guy either wasn't home or wasn't answering his door. As he turned away to walk off, a guy passed him, looked him up and down, then walked up to John's door, took out a key and unlocked it. Fox walked back up to him.
'Excuse me? I'm looking for John Hastings dorm room.'
'Oh, yeah, this used to be it. He dropped out about a week ago.'
'Oh.' was all Fox said. He had been afraid of that. Fox looked at the student.
'I don't suppose you know where he is, do you?'
'I wish! Then he could come and pick up the stuff he didn't take!'
'Well, how much is there? I could give it to him when I find him.' Fox suggested.
The guy shrugged.
'Fine with me. Come on in.'
Fox followed the student in, sniffed, then shook his head. This place smelled like a guy's dorm room!
The student walked over to a corner, picked up a box and handed it to Fox. On the very top, was a picture of John and Simone together. Fox shook his head and took the box.
'What about Hastings clothes and stuff?' Fox asked.
'Oh, his mother came to pick that up.'
Fox nodded. So, Grace did still care about John.
'Do you know if his dropping out had to do with finances or anything like that?' Fox asked.
The student shrugged again.
'I don't know John very well. All I do know is that I was dying to get away from my roommate, and wanted a single room. John's dropping out made my dream come true. All I know about him is what's been going around campus: John was bummed out over his girlfriend marrying that old, rich guy.'
Fox nodded again.
'Okay, well, thanks, I'll ask around.'
'Actually,' the student said in a sly tone, 'you're Fox Crane, aren't you?'
Fox took a deep breath, as to not show his disgust. For he knew when he was about to be hit up for money! And there was something in this guy's tone, that told Fox that the guy had been playing him.
'That's right.' Fox confirmed, setting the box down on the student's unmade bed.
'Yeah, well, I might be able to tell you a little more about where Hastings is, for a little help.'
Fox walked up to the student, invading his personal space. The student, taken aback, moved backwards.
'I really don't have time to screw around in this filthy hovel! So, if you know something, stop wasting my time and name your price!' Fox snapped.
'Okay, okay! God! You don't have to go off! But I could use some spending money...things have been kind of tight...'
'Your ass is going to feel kind of 'tight' after I'm through kicking it! Now tell me where Hastings is!'
'God! Okay!' The student whined. 'He's living on 420 Oak Street.'
Fox just stared at him.
'What do you take me for? Some kind of fool? For reasons that are none of your damned business, I know that area! There is nothing there but liquor stores and check cashing places! Unless....what, Hastings is living above one of those places or something?'
The student smirked.
'Try the alley next to 'Lyle's Liquor and Leisure'! Now, can I have some money or what?'
Alley?! Fox thought, as he mindlessly reached for his wallet and peeled the guy off a twenty. The student looked at it as if it were dirt!
'Oh come on, Crane! Twenty %$#@ bucks! You can do better than this!'
Fox shoved his face away from him! The student tripped back over something on the floor and fell to the ground! Fox then picked up John Hastings belongings and walked out of the door. He didn't bother to close it behind him. He figured the room needed airing out anyway.
****
Fox found Lyle's Liquor and Leisure in a relatively short amount of time. He got out of the car, and looked around. The area was slightly on the seedy side, but he didn't have time to worry about it. John's things were in his trunk.
He parked across the street and walked over to the liquor store. He then peeked into the alley beside it.
There were various trash cans and bags on the side of the building. But what struck Fox the most, was the huge box that sat against the store. For some reason, it reminded Fox of a huge box that some big present(probably for Ethan) had come in, when he was a child. Ethan and him used it later on, as a fort outdoors.
Fox bent down and looked inside. His mouth dropped open. For John Hastings, was curled up inside of it, asleep and filthy. Fox raised up and looked around.
How could John be that dirty, if he just dropped out of school a week ago?! That slimy creep that had inhabited John's room, probably lied about how long John had been living here, as well! Fox bent down again.
'John! Pssst! John!'
John opened one eye. Then he opened them both. He stared at Fox, then coughed, without covering his mouth. Fox reeled back, not only from potential germs, but it was apparent that the guy didn't bring a toothbrush to his new digs.
When Fox thought he had gulped in a sufficient amount of fresh air, he peered down into the box again. Somehow, John had managed to find cushions from somewhere, and had been sleeping on them. What Fox did not see, were any liquor bottles. Hopefully, that was a good sign. For it would take them a lot longer to get John cleaned up, if he had to detox as well.
John was openly glaring at him now.
'What?! What do you want?!' he snapped.
'I want you to crawl out of that box and talk to me, man to man.' Fox said.
John coughed once more, then crawled out from the box. He slowly stood up to full height and stared at Fox.
'How did you find me?' he asked quietly.
'That locust that has taken over your dorm room, told me where you were. What happened, man?! How did you get this low?!'
'Why do you care?' was John's answer.
'Look, John, I'm here about Simone.'
John's eyes widened. They then teared up!
'Tell me she's not dead?! God! Oh God! You wouldn't be here if she were okay! She's dead, DiMera killed her, didn't he! Oh God!'
Fox took a step back.
'Uh, no, Simone's not dead. At least, not yet.'
John wiped his nose with his hand. Fox took out a handkerchief and handed it to him. John snatched it and blew his nose.
'What do you mean, 'not yet'? Why are you here, Fox?'
Fox folded his arms.
'Do you want Simone back?'
John finished blowing his nose, then tried to hand the soiled garment back to Fox. Fox shook his head.
'No, you keep it.'
John clutched the handkerchief.
'I want her more than anything. But I messed up...bad, Fox. She would never forgive me. And it's just a matter of time before Tony does something to her. I NEVER liked him! I NEVER trusted him! But Simone....she was always willing to give that creep the benefit of the doubt!'
'Okay, okay. Calm down. Look, I'm here because I want to help you get Simone back.'
John stared at him a moment, unblinking.
'Why? Why would you want to help me? Why do you even care? It's not like you Crane's were very welcoming towards her.'
'That's not true, and you know it! It's Simone that won't give us a chance! She cut Whitney and her mother off a long time ago!'
'Well we now know she was right about her mother, don't we?' John asked sarcastically.
Fox didn't have an answer to that. For while he liked Eve, her actions had devastated this guy's life. Eve and his mother's actions.
'Okay, okay. I don't want to debate who's fault it is that Grace Bennett is not your real mother. I'm here about Simone. We're all worried sick about her.'
'Why? What has he done to her?'
'Nothing yet. I know she still cares for you. She married DiMera to get over you, that's all. She does not love the man. Simone would divorce him in a minute, if she knew you still cared.'
John sighed.
'But would Tony LET her divorce him?'
Fox shook his head.
'I don't know. But divorce won't be an option, if you don't get back in the game.'
John looked down at himself, then looked back up at Fox.
'How? Look at me? I'm a mess. What could I offer Simone now?'
Fox grinned.
'Plenty! You're coming home with Whitney and I. We'll get you cleaned up, bankrolled, and ready to give DiMera a little competition.'
'Bankrolled? Uh listen Fox, I don't need any handouts!'
Fox looked around him at the box.
'You sure as hell do! Listen, I think Simone and you belong together, but I wouldn't be willing to help, if I didn't think that you could support her. You can't do anything for her like this. Besides, it won't be forever. Just until you get on your feet. So, are you coming?'
John looked away, then bent down into the box to stare into it. There was nothing there worth taking with him. He then straightened up and nodded. Fox nodded as well, and together, they walked out of the alley.
****
Whitney and Teresa were let into the Crane mansion by Sandy, the new maid.
'Is my mother here, Sandy?' Whitney asked.
'Yes, she's in the den, with those precious babies. I just love them.' Sandy/Alistair cooed phonily.
Teresa eyed Sandy. She had to be the ugliest servant to date, that she had ever seen working at the mansion.
'Thank you, Sandy. We'll just go in.' Whitney said.
'Can I get you girls anything? Teresa, maybe some hard liquor?'
'What???' Teresa asked loudly, looking the maid up and down.
But Sandy/Alistair didn't blink.
'I asked you if you had a hard day?' Sandy/Alistair asked.
'No you didn't!' Teresa snapped.
Whitney put a hand on Teresa's arm. She really didn't hear what Sandy had asked, but she doubted it was what Teresa thought.
'Come on. I'm sure you just misunderstood.'
'How do you even know my name?' Teresa asked, still looking at Sandy.
'You're Little Ethan's mother, of course. I've seen you dropping off your son to see his father. That and I used to know you're mother.'
Teresa grew quiet. She guessed she might have not heard the woman right. She just nodded.
Whitney looked at Teresa.
'Did you want something to drink, Teresa?'
Teresa shook her head and looked away. This maid had creepy looking eyes! They reminded her of someone else's, but she couldn't think of who's.
'Nothing for me then, either. Thank you, Sandy.'
Sandy nodded, then shuffled off down a hallway. Whitney looked at Teresa.
'If you want to be Evan and Erin's nanny, you'll have to get along with Sandy.'
'I know, I know. It's just that...'
Before Teresa could finish her thought, the front door opened, and Julian walked in, carrying a briefcase. He smiled at Whitney, and Whitney only.
'Hello, Whitney. Teresa, my, it's what time, 9:00 in the morning? Do you not have employment to get off to?'
Teresa laughed phonily.
'Ha! Oh Julian, your wit just never fails to astound me! Actually, Whitney and I came by to make sure that your wife didn't finally realize what a total mistake she made in marrying you, and off herself!'
'Okay, you two!' Whitney yelled. 'That's enough! Julian, we came by to see my mother.'
'Oh, well can it wait? There's something I need to discuss with her right away.'
Whitney realized Julian really wasn't asking her permission. They would have to wait to approach her mother about Teresa being Evan and Erin's nanny.
But she nodded.
'Fine. I was just going to drop by the hospital and check on Ivy.'
Teresa and Julian both scrunched up their faces in unison at that mere sentence!
'Whitney! You actually go and see that woman?! After what she's done to your family?' Teresa asked, totally horrified.
'I dare say I'd have to agree with Teresa here. You really shouldn't bother.'
Whitney sighed.
'That's what Fox tells me. But I think it was losing Simone to Tony DiMera like that, that made me realize how precious life is. Ivy is still Fox's mother and she may never come out of that coma. I really think he needs to make his peace with her.'
'Well, that would be up to my son. Now, you'll have to excuse me, I really need to talk to my wife.'
Julian moved past them and opened the door to the den, closing it firmly behind him. Eve was sitting on the floor again, wrapping gifts. The twins were in the play pen. Eve looked up in surprise.
'Hey!' Eve said smiling. She then stood up, glanced into the play pen, before rushing into Julian's arms. She kissed him.
'What are you doing home so early?' she asked, rubbing her lipstick off from around his mouth. Julian let go of her and set down his briefcase.
'First of all, tell me why DiMera was here?'
Eve slowly let go of him. She glanced back at the twins briefly.
'How did you know that?' she asked, a bit dumbfounded.
'Darling, the aroma of that noxious Old Spice cologne he always wears, is still wafting around here! What did he want, Eve?'
'To rub it in my face that he was married to Simone and 'happy'! Well, he proved to me that he means her no good!'
Julian tilted his head.
'What does that mean? Did he say something?'
'No, it's what he did.'
'What?'
'Julian, never mind him. I don't want to talk about Tony DiMera. And he is not why you're here.'
Julian pulled her back into his arms.
'Actually, he is.'
Eve looked confused, Julian decided not to keep her in suspense much longer.
'I'm going to Salem.'
'Salem? Why?'
Julian pulled her over to the sofa and they both sat down. He kept his arms around her.
'Because I'm worried about you.'
Eve smiled nervously, and began to move out of his arms.
'Really, Julian, I'm fine. I quit my job because I wanted to be here for Evan and Erin.'
'You quit your job because you're letting this thing with Simone get to you. Now, if you want to stay here with the twins, I have no problem with that. But I do have a problem with your hiding from the world.'
'I'm not hiding!'
'Okay. We'll return to that later.'
'No we won't!'
Julian kept going on with the unpleasant conversation.
'About last night...'
Eve began to feel uncomfortable, and she knew why. She peeked over at the play pen. Now, both Evan and Erin were standing in the pen, watching the both of them! Eve did not want to discuss sex in front of the children!
'Julian! Evan and Erin are listening!'
Julian looked over there. Yes, they did seem to be watching them, didn't they. He smiled at them and waved.
'Hi! Daddy loves you!'
Erin began to grin! Evan smiled some too.
'Really, Eve, they can't understand anything! Now, I don't want you evading the subject here. I felt as if I was in bed with a stranger last night. This thing with Simone is beginning to affect our family here, and we've got to do, whatever we can do, to fix this.'
'Julian, you have to know that last night had nothing to do with you.'
'Oh, I know that darling! That's why I'm going to Salem to speak with Lexie.'
Lexie! Eve jumped up.
'Lexie Carver? Why?'
Julian stood up as well.
'Because I'm going to ask her to find a way to move in with her brother. So she can watch out for Simone. Tony wouldn't dare lay a hand on her, with someone around to watch.'
Eve began shaking her head.
'Julian, I don't know. I mean, after that hair incident...I just can't see Lexie doing us any favors.'
'No, but she may do it for T.C..'
Eve said nothing, but looked away. That was a thought.
Julian wrapped his arms around her from behind and kissed the back of her ear.
'This will all work out, darling, I swear it. We will find a way to get Simone out of this marriage...and maybe get her back together with John Hastings.'
Eve turned around in his arms.
'John? I don't know if that will be a possibility...'
'Well, maybe it will, and maybe it won't. Now, does this idea of mine strike you as somewhat possible?'
Eve thought about it. The one thing she did feel was sincere in Tony's life, was his yearning to make up with Lexie. And if she made the first overtures and came up with a plausible story as to why she would want to live with him here, then maybe it might work.
Eve looked at Julian and nodded.
'I suppose it could work.'
'And the idea would make you feel somewhat better?' he asked.
'Yes, somewhat.'
'Good. Now, since I came up with such a brilliant plan, and you're feeling slightly better, how about a make-up on last night's performance? You know, to give me a proper send off to Salem?'
Eve grinned at him, looking back at the twins. They had lost interest in their conversations, and were playing with a stuffed toy. Eve looked back at him.
'I would have to find someone to watch them for a bit.'
'Hopefully, for longer than 'a bit'.' Julian answered. He then let go of her and walked to the study door. He whipped it open, and was more than a bit startled to find Sandy, already up near the door.
'Oh, Mr. Crane, I was looking for you. I was wondering if you wanted anything to eat?'
'Uh, no. But, I would love it if you would watch the twins? Mrs. Crane and I have something we need to attend to.'
'I would be more than happy to!' Sandy/Alistair cooed. Eve felt uneasy again, just at the sound of her voice. She walked over to the Julian and pulled him back again.
'Actually, why don't I give you a partial raincheck on that?' she asked, pulling on his tie.
Julian's eyes grew wide!
'Partial raincheck? Eve, what on earth are you talking about?'
Eve lowered her voice.
'I'll tell you in the car. I'm going to put the twins down for their naps, then I will give you a 'quickie' in the car, okay?'
Julian nodded, as she kissed him, then walked over to the twins. He looked back at Sandy.
'Thank you, Sandy, but we'll take care of Evan and Erin, thank you.'
Julian could've sworn, that Sandy almost snarled! But when he blinked, the maid was smiling like always.
'Fine. Just call me if you need me.' she said, her voice, bright and airy. She turned and left the study, closing the door behind her.
Julian turned back to Eve. He didn't mind quickies, but with her, he preferred long hours, and repeated lovemaking. He guessed though, a quickie was better than nothing.
'Eve? What was all of that about? Why didn't you want Sandy to watch the twins?'
Eve picked up Erin. Julian walked over and reached in to pick up Evan.
'Julian, I don't know what it is, but I don't like her. And before you ask, no, I don't know what it is that makes me feel this way about her, it's just a feeling.'
'And you don't trust her with Evan and Erin, do you?'
Eve shook her head.
'Alright, well, then fire her, darling. We'll find someone else. Meanwhile, let's get the twins upstairs, then you can give me a proper send off in the limo.'
Eve smiled at him, as they headed for the study door. Julian bounced Evan up and down, then began to speak to him in babytalk.
'Your mommy is going to give me a quickie, son! I am just so excited!'
'Julian!' Eve gasped, embarrassed. She reached out with one free hand and whacked him across the back, as they left the study.
****
Sandy/Alistair, watched from an upstairs window, as the back of the limo rocked so hard, that one would've thought that Harmony was experiencing an earthquake!
God! It made him sick how much his son and that woman touched one another! That sort of affection was only to be shown behind the doors of a couple's bedroom, not in broad daylight! Though, he himself, remembered that he had had some pretty wild times as a teenager, in the back of...
Alistair shook his head with disgust, while putting on a pair of black, leather gloves. He then turned and headed for the twins room. God knows how long that damned car down there would gyrate! So, now was the perfect time to smother the twins and still make a clean getaway!
But when he reached their room, two other servants, were cooing over the brats! They didn't hear him approach, and he backed out of the room quietly.
Damn! That meant he'd have to watch and wait, yet again, for the perfect time to rid himself of Julian's 'mistakes' and preserve the Crane family name.
****
Teresa dawdled, as Whitney walked to Ivy's room.
'Tell me again why we're here?' she asked.
'Come on, Teresa! It's not like we're going to stay and talk to the woman. I'm just going to bring her these flowers, then we're out of here.'
'Good!' Teresa said.
Teresa followed Whitney to the room. Whitney knocked once, in case Ethan or Gwen were in there(they would just love seeing Teresa!), then threw the door open. What she saw, caused her and Teresa to gasp!
For sitting beside her and holding her hand, was none other than Simon Cowell! Teresa and Whitney coughed/gagged together. They both were remembering looking through the window of Cowell's house in L.A., and seeing him have sex with Ivy standing up!
Whitney, who had hoped to never lay eyes on the man again, found her voice.
'What are you doing here?' she asked, wanting to cough again.
Teresa moved forward.
'Please don't tell me it's because you care so much for Ivy?' Teresa asked sarcastically.
Simon smiled at her. The same arrogant smile he displayed for the world.
'It's Teresa, isn't it? Teresa, Ivy told me that you were jealous that she found her way into my bed, instead of yourself but...'
'She what?!' Teresa screeched, her eyes moving from Simon to Ivy. If that witch wasn't in a coma, she'd beat the living %$## out of her!
'Shut up, Simon! Why are you really here?' Whitney asked, suddenly feeling a headache coming on. She didn't like thinking about that fateful morning. The morning she had awakened, and found herself naked in his bed in L.A..
Simon let go of Ivy's hand and walked up to the both of them. He was wearing his trademark black t-shirt. Whitney and Teresa stepped back some.
'I'm here because I love Ivy and always have. It's that simple.' he answered.
'What???'
Simon looked behind Whitney and Teresa. Whitney and Teresa turned around to see Ethan walk in. He looked Simon up and down.
'You look familiar.' he said.
And you look delicious! Simon thought, eyeing Ivy's first born. He smiled, then licked his lips. Whitney looked at Teresa.
'Did you see that?' she whispered.
Teresa nodded.
'Oh yeah!' she whispered back. Ethan may have made a new friend!
Fox finds John in an unusual place. Whitney and Teresa get a surprise when they visit Ivy.
Fox knocked for the fifth time on John's dorm room door. The guy either wasn't home or wasn't answering his door. As he turned away to walk off, a guy passed him, looked him up and down, then walked up to John's door, took out a key and unlocked it. Fox walked back up to him.
'Excuse me? I'm looking for John Hastings dorm room.'
'Oh, yeah, this used to be it. He dropped out about a week ago.'
'Oh.' was all Fox said. He had been afraid of that. Fox looked at the student.
'I don't suppose you know where he is, do you?'
'I wish! Then he could come and pick up the stuff he didn't take!'
'Well, how much is there? I could give it to him when I find him.' Fox suggested.
The guy shrugged.
'Fine with me. Come on in.'
Fox followed the student in, sniffed, then shook his head. This place smelled like a guy's dorm room!
The student walked over to a corner, picked up a box and handed it to Fox. On the very top, was a picture of John and Simone together. Fox shook his head and took the box.
'What about Hastings clothes and stuff?' Fox asked.
'Oh, his mother came to pick that up.'
Fox nodded. So, Grace did still care about John.
'Do you know if his dropping out had to do with finances or anything like that?' Fox asked.
The student shrugged again.
'I don't know John very well. All I do know is that I was dying to get away from my roommate, and wanted a single room. John's dropping out made my dream come true. All I know about him is what's been going around campus: John was bummed out over his girlfriend marrying that old, rich guy.'
Fox nodded again.
'Okay, well, thanks, I'll ask around.'
'Actually,' the student said in a sly tone, 'you're Fox Crane, aren't you?'
Fox took a deep breath, as to not show his disgust. For he knew when he was about to be hit up for money! And there was something in this guy's tone, that told Fox that the guy had been playing him.
'That's right.' Fox confirmed, setting the box down on the student's unmade bed.
'Yeah, well, I might be able to tell you a little more about where Hastings is, for a little help.'
Fox walked up to the student, invading his personal space. The student, taken aback, moved backwards.
'I really don't have time to screw around in this filthy hovel! So, if you know something, stop wasting my time and name your price!' Fox snapped.
'Okay, okay! God! You don't have to go off! But I could use some spending money...things have been kind of tight...'
'Your ass is going to feel kind of 'tight' after I'm through kicking it! Now tell me where Hastings is!'
'God! Okay!' The student whined. 'He's living on 420 Oak Street.'
Fox just stared at him.
'What do you take me for? Some kind of fool? For reasons that are none of your damned business, I know that area! There is nothing there but liquor stores and check cashing places! Unless....what, Hastings is living above one of those places or something?'
The student smirked.
'Try the alley next to 'Lyle's Liquor and Leisure'! Now, can I have some money or what?'
Alley?! Fox thought, as he mindlessly reached for his wallet and peeled the guy off a twenty. The student looked at it as if it were dirt!
'Oh come on, Crane! Twenty %$#@ bucks! You can do better than this!'
Fox shoved his face away from him! The student tripped back over something on the floor and fell to the ground! Fox then picked up John Hastings belongings and walked out of the door. He didn't bother to close it behind him. He figured the room needed airing out anyway.
****
Fox found Lyle's Liquor and Leisure in a relatively short amount of time. He got out of the car, and looked around. The area was slightly on the seedy side, but he didn't have time to worry about it. John's things were in his trunk.
He parked across the street and walked over to the liquor store. He then peeked into the alley beside it.
There were various trash cans and bags on the side of the building. But what struck Fox the most, was the huge box that sat against the store. For some reason, it reminded Fox of a huge box that some big present(probably for Ethan) had come in, when he was a child. Ethan and him used it later on, as a fort outdoors.
Fox bent down and looked inside. His mouth dropped open. For John Hastings, was curled up inside of it, asleep and filthy. Fox raised up and looked around.
How could John be that dirty, if he just dropped out of school a week ago?! That slimy creep that had inhabited John's room, probably lied about how long John had been living here, as well! Fox bent down again.
'John! Pssst! John!'
John opened one eye. Then he opened them both. He stared at Fox, then coughed, without covering his mouth. Fox reeled back, not only from potential germs, but it was apparent that the guy didn't bring a toothbrush to his new digs.
When Fox thought he had gulped in a sufficient amount of fresh air, he peered down into the box again. Somehow, John had managed to find cushions from somewhere, and had been sleeping on them. What Fox did not see, were any liquor bottles. Hopefully, that was a good sign. For it would take them a lot longer to get John cleaned up, if he had to detox as well.
John was openly glaring at him now.
'What?! What do you want?!' he snapped.
'I want you to crawl out of that box and talk to me, man to man.' Fox said.
John coughed once more, then crawled out from the box. He slowly stood up to full height and stared at Fox.
'How did you find me?' he asked quietly.
'That locust that has taken over your dorm room, told me where you were. What happened, man?! How did you get this low?!'
'Why do you care?' was John's answer.
'Look, John, I'm here about Simone.'
John's eyes widened. They then teared up!
'Tell me she's not dead?! God! Oh God! You wouldn't be here if she were okay! She's dead, DiMera killed her, didn't he! Oh God!'
Fox took a step back.
'Uh, no, Simone's not dead. At least, not yet.'
John wiped his nose with his hand. Fox took out a handkerchief and handed it to him. John snatched it and blew his nose.
'What do you mean, 'not yet'? Why are you here, Fox?'
Fox folded his arms.
'Do you want Simone back?'
John finished blowing his nose, then tried to hand the soiled garment back to Fox. Fox shook his head.
'No, you keep it.'
John clutched the handkerchief.
'I want her more than anything. But I messed up...bad, Fox. She would never forgive me. And it's just a matter of time before Tony does something to her. I NEVER liked him! I NEVER trusted him! But Simone....she was always willing to give that creep the benefit of the doubt!'
'Okay, okay. Calm down. Look, I'm here because I want to help you get Simone back.'
John stared at him a moment, unblinking.
'Why? Why would you want to help me? Why do you even care? It's not like you Crane's were very welcoming towards her.'
'That's not true, and you know it! It's Simone that won't give us a chance! She cut Whitney and her mother off a long time ago!'
'Well we now know she was right about her mother, don't we?' John asked sarcastically.
Fox didn't have an answer to that. For while he liked Eve, her actions had devastated this guy's life. Eve and his mother's actions.
'Okay, okay. I don't want to debate who's fault it is that Grace Bennett is not your real mother. I'm here about Simone. We're all worried sick about her.'
'Why? What has he done to her?'
'Nothing yet. I know she still cares for you. She married DiMera to get over you, that's all. She does not love the man. Simone would divorce him in a minute, if she knew you still cared.'
John sighed.
'But would Tony LET her divorce him?'
Fox shook his head.
'I don't know. But divorce won't be an option, if you don't get back in the game.'
John looked down at himself, then looked back up at Fox.
'How? Look at me? I'm a mess. What could I offer Simone now?'
Fox grinned.
'Plenty! You're coming home with Whitney and I. We'll get you cleaned up, bankrolled, and ready to give DiMera a little competition.'
'Bankrolled? Uh listen Fox, I don't need any handouts!'
Fox looked around him at the box.
'You sure as hell do! Listen, I think Simone and you belong together, but I wouldn't be willing to help, if I didn't think that you could support her. You can't do anything for her like this. Besides, it won't be forever. Just until you get on your feet. So, are you coming?'
John looked away, then bent down into the box to stare into it. There was nothing there worth taking with him. He then straightened up and nodded. Fox nodded as well, and together, they walked out of the alley.
****
Whitney and Teresa were let into the Crane mansion by Sandy, the new maid.
'Is my mother here, Sandy?' Whitney asked.
'Yes, she's in the den, with those precious babies. I just love them.' Sandy/Alistair cooed phonily.
Teresa eyed Sandy. She had to be the ugliest servant to date, that she had ever seen working at the mansion.
'Thank you, Sandy. We'll just go in.' Whitney said.
'Can I get you girls anything? Teresa, maybe some hard liquor?'
'What???' Teresa asked loudly, looking the maid up and down.
But Sandy/Alistair didn't blink.
'I asked you if you had a hard day?' Sandy/Alistair asked.
'No you didn't!' Teresa snapped.
Whitney put a hand on Teresa's arm. She really didn't hear what Sandy had asked, but she doubted it was what Teresa thought.
'Come on. I'm sure you just misunderstood.'
'How do you even know my name?' Teresa asked, still looking at Sandy.
'You're Little Ethan's mother, of course. I've seen you dropping off your son to see his father. That and I used to know you're mother.'
Teresa grew quiet. She guessed she might have not heard the woman right. She just nodded.
Whitney looked at Teresa.
'Did you want something to drink, Teresa?'
Teresa shook her head and looked away. This maid had creepy looking eyes! They reminded her of someone else's, but she couldn't think of who's.
'Nothing for me then, either. Thank you, Sandy.'
Sandy nodded, then shuffled off down a hallway. Whitney looked at Teresa.
'If you want to be Evan and Erin's nanny, you'll have to get along with Sandy.'
'I know, I know. It's just that...'
Before Teresa could finish her thought, the front door opened, and Julian walked in, carrying a briefcase. He smiled at Whitney, and Whitney only.
'Hello, Whitney. Teresa, my, it's what time, 9:00 in the morning? Do you not have employment to get off to?'
Teresa laughed phonily.
'Ha! Oh Julian, your wit just never fails to astound me! Actually, Whitney and I came by to make sure that your wife didn't finally realize what a total mistake she made in marrying you, and off herself!'
'Okay, you two!' Whitney yelled. 'That's enough! Julian, we came by to see my mother.'
'Oh, well can it wait? There's something I need to discuss with her right away.'
Whitney realized Julian really wasn't asking her permission. They would have to wait to approach her mother about Teresa being Evan and Erin's nanny.
But she nodded.
'Fine. I was just going to drop by the hospital and check on Ivy.'
Teresa and Julian both scrunched up their faces in unison at that mere sentence!
'Whitney! You actually go and see that woman?! After what she's done to your family?' Teresa asked, totally horrified.
'I dare say I'd have to agree with Teresa here. You really shouldn't bother.'
Whitney sighed.
'That's what Fox tells me. But I think it was losing Simone to Tony DiMera like that, that made me realize how precious life is. Ivy is still Fox's mother and she may never come out of that coma. I really think he needs to make his peace with her.'
'Well, that would be up to my son. Now, you'll have to excuse me, I really need to talk to my wife.'
Julian moved past them and opened the door to the den, closing it firmly behind him. Eve was sitting on the floor again, wrapping gifts. The twins were in the play pen. Eve looked up in surprise.
'Hey!' Eve said smiling. She then stood up, glanced into the play pen, before rushing into Julian's arms. She kissed him.
'What are you doing home so early?' she asked, rubbing her lipstick off from around his mouth. Julian let go of her and set down his briefcase.
'First of all, tell me why DiMera was here?'
Eve slowly let go of him. She glanced back at the twins briefly.
'How did you know that?' she asked, a bit dumbfounded.
'Darling, the aroma of that noxious Old Spice cologne he always wears, is still wafting around here! What did he want, Eve?'
'To rub it in my face that he was married to Simone and 'happy'! Well, he proved to me that he means her no good!'
Julian tilted his head.
'What does that mean? Did he say something?'
'No, it's what he did.'
'What?'
'Julian, never mind him. I don't want to talk about Tony DiMera. And he is not why you're here.'
Julian pulled her back into his arms.
'Actually, he is.'
Eve looked confused, Julian decided not to keep her in suspense much longer.
'I'm going to Salem.'
'Salem? Why?'
Julian pulled her over to the sofa and they both sat down. He kept his arms around her.
'Because I'm worried about you.'
Eve smiled nervously, and began to move out of his arms.
'Really, Julian, I'm fine. I quit my job because I wanted to be here for Evan and Erin.'
'You quit your job because you're letting this thing with Simone get to you. Now, if you want to stay here with the twins, I have no problem with that. But I do have a problem with your hiding from the world.'
'I'm not hiding!'
'Okay. We'll return to that later.'
'No we won't!'
Julian kept going on with the unpleasant conversation.
'About last night...'
Eve began to feel uncomfortable, and she knew why. She peeked over at the play pen. Now, both Evan and Erin were standing in the pen, watching the both of them! Eve did not want to discuss sex in front of the children!
'Julian! Evan and Erin are listening!'
Julian looked over there. Yes, they did seem to be watching them, didn't they. He smiled at them and waved.
'Hi! Daddy loves you!'
Erin began to grin! Evan smiled some too.
'Really, Eve, they can't understand anything! Now, I don't want you evading the subject here. I felt as if I was in bed with a stranger last night. This thing with Simone is beginning to affect our family here, and we've got to do, whatever we can do, to fix this.'
'Julian, you have to know that last night had nothing to do with you.'
'Oh, I know that darling! That's why I'm going to Salem to speak with Lexie.'
Lexie! Eve jumped up.
'Lexie Carver? Why?'
Julian stood up as well.
'Because I'm going to ask her to find a way to move in with her brother. So she can watch out for Simone. Tony wouldn't dare lay a hand on her, with someone around to watch.'
Eve began shaking her head.
'Julian, I don't know. I mean, after that hair incident...I just can't see Lexie doing us any favors.'
'No, but she may do it for T.C..'
Eve said nothing, but looked away. That was a thought.
Julian wrapped his arms around her from behind and kissed the back of her ear.
'This will all work out, darling, I swear it. We will find a way to get Simone out of this marriage...and maybe get her back together with John Hastings.'
Eve turned around in his arms.
'John? I don't know if that will be a possibility...'
'Well, maybe it will, and maybe it won't. Now, does this idea of mine strike you as somewhat possible?'
Eve thought about it. The one thing she did feel was sincere in Tony's life, was his yearning to make up with Lexie. And if she made the first overtures and came up with a plausible story as to why she would want to live with him here, then maybe it might work.
Eve looked at Julian and nodded.
'I suppose it could work.'
'And the idea would make you feel somewhat better?' he asked.
'Yes, somewhat.'
'Good. Now, since I came up with such a brilliant plan, and you're feeling slightly better, how about a make-up on last night's performance? You know, to give me a proper send off to Salem?'
Eve grinned at him, looking back at the twins. They had lost interest in their conversations, and were playing with a stuffed toy. Eve looked back at him.
'I would have to find someone to watch them for a bit.'
'Hopefully, for longer than 'a bit'.' Julian answered. He then let go of her and walked to the study door. He whipped it open, and was more than a bit startled to find Sandy, already up near the door.
'Oh, Mr. Crane, I was looking for you. I was wondering if you wanted anything to eat?'
'Uh, no. But, I would love it if you would watch the twins? Mrs. Crane and I have something we need to attend to.'
'I would be more than happy to!' Sandy/Alistair cooed. Eve felt uneasy again, just at the sound of her voice. She walked over to the Julian and pulled him back again.
'Actually, why don't I give you a partial raincheck on that?' she asked, pulling on his tie.
Julian's eyes grew wide!
'Partial raincheck? Eve, what on earth are you talking about?'
Eve lowered her voice.
'I'll tell you in the car. I'm going to put the twins down for their naps, then I will give you a 'quickie' in the car, okay?'
Julian nodded, as she kissed him, then walked over to the twins. He looked back at Sandy.
'Thank you, Sandy, but we'll take care of Evan and Erin, thank you.'
Julian could've sworn, that Sandy almost snarled! But when he blinked, the maid was smiling like always.
'Fine. Just call me if you need me.' she said, her voice, bright and airy. She turned and left the study, closing the door behind her.
Julian turned back to Eve. He didn't mind quickies, but with her, he preferred long hours, and repeated lovemaking. He guessed though, a quickie was better than nothing.
'Eve? What was all of that about? Why didn't you want Sandy to watch the twins?'
Eve picked up Erin. Julian walked over and reached in to pick up Evan.
'Julian, I don't know what it is, but I don't like her. And before you ask, no, I don't know what it is that makes me feel this way about her, it's just a feeling.'
'And you don't trust her with Evan and Erin, do you?'
Eve shook her head.
'Alright, well, then fire her, darling. We'll find someone else. Meanwhile, let's get the twins upstairs, then you can give me a proper send off in the limo.'
Eve smiled at him, as they headed for the study door. Julian bounced Evan up and down, then began to speak to him in babytalk.
'Your mommy is going to give me a quickie, son! I am just so excited!'
'Julian!' Eve gasped, embarrassed. She reached out with one free hand and whacked him across the back, as they left the study.
****
Sandy/Alistair, watched from an upstairs window, as the back of the limo rocked so hard, that one would've thought that Harmony was experiencing an earthquake!
God! It made him sick how much his son and that woman touched one another! That sort of affection was only to be shown behind the doors of a couple's bedroom, not in broad daylight! Though, he himself, remembered that he had had some pretty wild times as a teenager, in the back of...
Alistair shook his head with disgust, while putting on a pair of black, leather gloves. He then turned and headed for the twins room. God knows how long that damned car down there would gyrate! So, now was the perfect time to smother the twins and still make a clean getaway!
But when he reached their room, two other servants, were cooing over the brats! They didn't hear him approach, and he backed out of the room quietly.
Damn! That meant he'd have to watch and wait, yet again, for the perfect time to rid himself of Julian's 'mistakes' and preserve the Crane family name.
****
Teresa dawdled, as Whitney walked to Ivy's room.
'Tell me again why we're here?' she asked.
'Come on, Teresa! It's not like we're going to stay and talk to the woman. I'm just going to bring her these flowers, then we're out of here.'
'Good!' Teresa said.
Teresa followed Whitney to the room. Whitney knocked once, in case Ethan or Gwen were in there(they would just love seeing Teresa!), then threw the door open. What she saw, caused her and Teresa to gasp!
For sitting beside her and holding her hand, was none other than Simon Cowell! Teresa and Whitney coughed/gagged together. They both were remembering looking through the window of Cowell's house in L.A., and seeing him have sex with Ivy standing up!
Whitney, who had hoped to never lay eyes on the man again, found her voice.
'What are you doing here?' she asked, wanting to cough again.
Teresa moved forward.
'Please don't tell me it's because you care so much for Ivy?' Teresa asked sarcastically.
Simon smiled at her. The same arrogant smile he displayed for the world.
'It's Teresa, isn't it? Teresa, Ivy told me that you were jealous that she found her way into my bed, instead of yourself but...'
'She what?!' Teresa screeched, her eyes moving from Simon to Ivy. If that witch wasn't in a coma, she'd beat the living %$## out of her!
'Shut up, Simon! Why are you really here?' Whitney asked, suddenly feeling a headache coming on. She didn't like thinking about that fateful morning. The morning she had awakened, and found herself naked in his bed in L.A..
Simon let go of Ivy's hand and walked up to the both of them. He was wearing his trademark black t-shirt. Whitney and Teresa stepped back some.
'I'm here because I love Ivy and always have. It's that simple.' he answered.
'What???'
Simon looked behind Whitney and Teresa. Whitney and Teresa turned around to see Ethan walk in. He looked Simon up and down.
'You look familiar.' he said.
And you look delicious! Simon thought, eyeing Ivy's first born. He smiled, then licked his lips. Whitney looked at Teresa.
'Did you see that?' she whispered.
Teresa nodded.
'Oh yeah!' she whispered back. Ethan may have made a new friend!