"What is going on? What are you doing here?" Mariah said, "How did you get out?"
"Someone confessed for a crime I was falsely accused of," Austin said, "I thought maybe it was you."
"I wouldn't help you," Tessa said.
"I guess not," Austin said, swinging the door shut behind him, "I hear you went to the cops and threw me under the bus."
"Step away from her," Mariah warned.
"What's this?" Austin said, "You two are still together? Can I come to the wedding?"
"I'd like you to leave," Tessa said.
"First, I have a question," Austin said, "How could you do this to me?"
"I told the police the truth," Tessa said.
"Did you?" Austin said, "You told them I caused the infamous accident," Austin said, "Which I was charged for. Except it wasn't me."
"You were gloating about it, to me," Tessa said, "Threatening to do it again."
"I was merely pointing out that I would have done it right," Austin said, "I wish I could take credit for it."
"You are not going to stand there and continue to threaten a friend of mine," Mariah said.
"Your friend is fine," Austin said, "Safe from me."
"I've heard that before," Tessa said, "Are you telling us you're suddenly a free man?"
Lifting up his pant leg to reveal his ankle monitor, Austin said, "Does this look free to you?"
"At least they're keeping tabs on you," Mariah said.
"I'm on parole," Austin said, "I have been instructed how to live my life for the next three years. Complete with living accommodations, employment and therapy."
"Good luck with that," Tessa said.
"It's time for you to leave," Mariah said. Austin stared at Tessa, prompting Mariah to continue, "There's the door."
"We're not done," Austin said.
"Yeah, we are," Tessa said.
Austin nodded. "Fine, be that way," he said, backing up to the door.
"It was our father by the way," Tessa said.
Facing her, Austin said, "Excuse me?"
"It was our father," Tessa said, again, "He's the one who confessed and got you out of jail."
Austin laughed and said, "Just what makes you think that?"
"Because I asked him to," Tessa said.
"You did what?" Austin said.
"I went to see him," Tessa said, "I convinced him to confess and tell the police about your sometimes fragile state of mind, that leads to inappropriate behavior. He was to recommend rehabilitation instead of incarceration."
"And he agreed to this," Austin said.
"Apparently," Tessa said, "I shouldn't be surprised. You've always been his favorite."
"Why would you do this for me?" Austin said.
"Because I wanted to make things right," Tessa said, "You never would have gone to therapy if I asked you to. I knew you would only go if you had to."
"Yeah, I'm not too thrilled about that part," Austin said, "Thanks, sis."
Tessa nodded. Austin moved in to hug her, but Tessa backed away. "Now that you know," Tessa said, "Now that you have your new path, I want you to go and never look in my direction again."
"What are you saying?" Austin said, "Are you writing me off?"
"After what you have done to me, the way you have turned my life upside down," Tessa started, "I want nothing more to do with you."
"Tessa, just wait…" Austin said.
Cutting him off Tessa said, "I don't want to see you or hear from you anymore. Any relationship we had is over."
"You can't be serious," Austin said, "You are just turning your back on me? Throwing me out of your life?"
"That's right," Tessa calmly said, "We're done."
"You just might find yourself regretting this one day," Austin said.
"Is that a threat?" Mariah said.
"That's a fact," Austin said. Opening the door, he looked back and focusing on Mariah, he said, "Good luck with this one. She's your mess now." Austin slammed the door behind him.
Tears spilled down Tessa's cheeks, going to her Mariah said, "You did right thing."
"Did I?" Tessa said.
"You finally stood up to him," Mariah said, "You're free. I am so proud of you."
Strolling around the living room of the Abbott mansion, Rachel cuddled a fussy baby in her arms. Offering soothing words and gentle movement, she was successful at calming the baby.
The front door opened, to reveal Kyle arriving home from work. Smiling when he saw them he said, "There's my two favorite girls."
"They're both exhausted," Rachel said.
Putting his briefcase down and removing his suit jacket, Kyle held out his arms and said, "Let me take her."
As Rachel handed the baby to Kyle, he said, "I have been looking forward to this all day."
With the baby settled in her husband's arms, Rachel smiled, "She's so beautiful."
"And extremely cute," Kyle said.
"She gets that from her daddy," Rachel said.
Kyle smiled with a small laugh. Looking at Rachel he said, "Thank you." He leaned in and kissed her.
Rachel opened her eyes, greeted by the sound of nearby ocean waves. Recalling her dream, she smiled at the prospect. Turning her head to look at Kyle, she watched him sleeping beside her.
As he lay on his back, Rachel reached out and gently stroked his arm. Kyle suddenly flinched and gave a moan of distress, before waking up with a gasp.
"Kyle?" Rachel said.
Kyle sighed before he looked over at her and said, "Hi."
"You had another nightmare," Rachel said.
"Yeah," Kyle said, "It was him again."
Taking his hand, Rachel said, "Kyle, what's going on?"
"I don't know," Kyle said, "I can't get what happened, or almost happened out of my head."
"He is behind bars, he can't hurt you," Rachel said.
"I hear you," Kyle said, "But I've never gone through anything like that, where I seriously thought my life…was about to be over."
"You're safe," Rachel said, kissing his cheek.
"I know," Kyle smiled.
"Maybe it will help if you keep this in mind," Rachel said, "If he so much as comes near you again, he will have to deal with me. He won't like that."
Kyle laughed and said, "I'm sure he wouldn't." Pushing his fears away, Kyle said, "We have a honeymoon to continue."
"We do," Rachel said, gazing at Kyle.
"What's with the look?" Kyle said.
"Was I looking at you different?" Rachel said.
"Yes, you are," Kyle said, "It's like you're excited."
"Didn't you know you excite me?" Rachel said.
"Something's going on with you," Kyle said.
"You are not the only one who had a dream last night," Rachel said.
"I'm sure it was better than mine," Kyle said, "So tell me about it."
"We were at home together," Rachel said, "You had just got home from work and it wasn't just us."
"Go on," Kyle said.
"There was a baby," Rachel said.
"What?" Kyle said, "Our…baby?"
"Yes," Rachel said, "You were cuddling her in your arms and it looked so sweet."
"Her?" Kyle said, "It was a girl?"
"It was," Rachel said, "Our perfect little family." Kyle smiled at her. "Tell me we are going to have that one day."
"Of course we will," Kyle said. Teasing her, Kyle continued, "Maybe six or seven of them." Rachel frowned at him. "One or two?" Kyle said.
"That's better," Rachel said. They both paused, before Kyle said, "Were you trying to tell me something?"
"You can relax," Rachel said, "No babies yet. Trust me, I will let you know."
Kyle nodded and said, "I meant did you want to start trying already?"
"Do you?" Rachel said.
"We just got married," Kyle said, "I thought it would be the two of us for awhile. At the same time I am really looking forward to having a family with you. Maybe we could just wait for a bit."
"I like the thought of alone time with you," Rachel said, "But you know, sometimes nature has other ideas."
"Even if we don't plan it, I will be just as excited if it does happen," Kyle said.
"As long as you know, it could be sooner rather than later," Rachel said.
"In that case," Kyle said, leaning in close to her, "Let's not waste this alone time." Kyle kissed her, as Rachel pulled him close to her.
Theo strolled into the coffeehouse and approached Sharon at the front counter. Recalling their respective duties in the wedding parties, Theo said, "Hello Sharon. It's nice to see you again."
"Hi," Sharon said. She paused and pointing at him she said, "Theo right?"
"That's me," Theo said.
"I remember you were in the wedding," Sharon said, "A friend of Kyle's."
"You could say that," Theo said, "Actually Kyle and I are cousins. Now Rachel is too."
"That's right, Jack told me of your relation," Sharon said, "Pretty exciting to find you have a whole new family."
"That's one way to put it," Theo said, "The Abbotts have been really welcoming to me."
"I wouldn't have expected anything less," Sharon said.
"You know, last time I was here, I had the most incredible Cappuccino," Theo smiled.
"Would you like another?" Sharon said.
"I would like that very much," Theo said, "And maybe one of those pastries too."
"Coming right up," Sharon said.
As Sharon prepared his drink, Theo said, "So, what do you think the lovebirds are up to now?"
"I imagine they are having the time of their lives," Sharon said, "I'm not sure where they went on their honeymoon."
"Hawaii," Theo said.
"Oh, that sounds lovely," Sharon said.
"That wedding was really something," Theo said, "I've never seen anything like it."
"It was really special," Sharon said, "Watching the bride and groom, they looked very much in love."
"Sure did," Theo mused, spotting Lola sitting on the patio, "I only hope I can find something that special one day."
"All done," Sharon said, causing Theo to return his focus to her, "Here you go…" As Sharon handed Theo his coffee, when she caught sight of something that made her gasp and spill the coffee on the counter. Sharon's hands flew to her face, the spill causing Theo to step back, avoiding the splash.
Hearing the commotion, Lola watched with interest as, Theo said, "Sharon, what's wrong?"
"He's not supposed to…" Sharon started. Theo followed Sharon's gaze, to see Austin entering the coffeehouse.
"Sharon," Austin said, "What a nice surprise."
Stepping into Austin's path, Theo said, "Can I help you?"
"You need to work on you customer service skills," Austin said, "Very abrupt for a waiter. A little overdressed too."
"I don't work here," Theo said, "But that won't stop me from showing you the exit."
"I think we got off on the wrong foot," Austin said. Holding out his hand, he said, "I'm Austin Travers."
Refusing the handshake, Theo said, "I know who you are. Furthermore, I don't like you."
"I'm crushed," Austin said, "And here I thought we could be buds."
"Not a chance," Theo said, "Not after you threatened my family."
Austin slightly laughed and said, "I haven't the slightest idea what you are talking about. I don't know you or your family."
"I'm Theo Vanderway," Theo said.
"Still not ringing any bells," Austin shrugged.
"Kyle Abbott and his family are my family," Theo said, "You held Kyle and Summer, who I also care about, at gunpoint. You threatened to kill my cousin."
With a heartier laugh, Austin said, "Kyle's your cousin? No kidding? I'm sorry to hear that. You have my sympathies."
"You think this is fun and games?" Theo said, "I don't take it well, when someone waives a weapon at people that are close to me."
"He's supposed to be in jail for it," Sharon accused, walking closer to them.
"How is it that you're free?" Theo said.
Revealing his ankle monitor, Austin said, "Three years' probation."
"This is a joke, right?" Theo said.
"I'm not laughing," Austin said, "The police are dictating the way I live my life."
"You don't have any rights," Sharon said, "Not after what you have done."
"I can't speak for the police," Austin said, "And if you would both calm down, I came here for a reason."
"Kyle and Summer aren't here," Theo said, "Sorry to dash your hopes of causing more trouble today."
"Ever think your cousin is the one to blame?" Austin said.
"You're testing my patience," Theo fumed.
"Think about it," Austin said, "You are defending a pompous, self-important, entitled, silver spoon fed, spoiled rich kid."
Theo didn't hesitate to punch Austin. Sharon exclaimed and Lola flinched at the sight.
Rubbing his jaw, Austin said, "Alright. That was your freebee. You touch me again and it's going to cost you."
"You can count on more, coming your way," Theo said, "Talking that way about someone who isn't here to defend himself. How about I teach you a lesson you won't soon forget."
"Theo," Lola said, approaching him. Theo looked in her direction, he had forgotten she was witnessing the altercation. "I think you need to calm down."
"Stay out of this," Theo said.
"It's not worth it to get so worked up," Lola said, "Maybe it's time to back off and walk away."
"Thank you," Austin said, "It's refreshing to see someone being nice for me."
Lola glared at Austin as she said, "Oh, I'm not being nice. Personally, I can't stand the sight of you. After what you almost did to Kyle. If you had killed him, I would have come down to that jail and personally scratched your eyes out. Now, you said, you came here for a reason. Just tell us what it is."
"Feisty," Austin said.
"You have no idea," Lola said.
"As for my reason for being here," Austin started, "I came to apologize to you Sharon."
"Excuse me?" Sharon said.
"I want to say I'm sorry for any difficulties we had in the past," Austin said, "I'm trying to make amends and turn my life around."
"That's a lovely speech," Sharon said, "I'm not buying it."
"Me either," Theo said.
"Now that you have said your piece," Sharon said, a nervous tone creeping in, "We have the right to refuse service. So, I would appreciate it if you would get out of my coffeehouse."
"Believe me, I only…" Austin started.
"Leave now, or I will see to it, you are back behind bars," Sharon said.
Austin raised his hands in surrender, as he left the premises.
Rubbing her neck, Rachel said, "Kyle, that was a wonderful surprise. That couples massage was heavenly."
"It was incredible," Kyle said, "I'm glad you liked it. However, your surprise isn't over yet. I have arranged a private, romantic dinner for two. Complete with soft music and champagne, under the stars."
"You're the best husband," Rachel smiled.
"It's only because I have the best wife," Kyle smiled back.
"Do I have time to change and freshen up ?" Rachel said.
"Absolutely," Kyle said.
As Rachel retreated into the bathroom, Kyle responded to his phone. "Hello?...thanks for getting back to me, is everything all set?...what do mean you're cancelling?...well, yes, but this is my honeymoon and I…okay, I understand," Kyle said, closing his eyes in frustration, "Thanks for letting me know." Ending his call Kyle, shook a fist of defeat, in the air sighing, "Perfect."
Hearing a noise, Kyle walked to the window and peeked outside. He was greeted by a flash of lightening and a rumble of thunder.
"You can't do this to me," Kyle said.
Arranging chairs, on either side of a table, Kyle surveyed his set up. "Okay," he nodded to himself. Hearing the knock outside the room, Kyle glanced back, making sure Rachel still hadn't emerged yet, before opening the door.
Greeted by a hostess, with a room service dinner, Kyle smiled and said, "Great, come on in."
"Where would you like this situated?" the hostess said.
Gesturing to the table, Kyle said, "Right there would be great."
As the hostess placed a table cloth over the table, setting out dinnerware and plates of food selections, complete with candles, Kyle said, "Thank you so much. I really appreciate this. It's my honeymoon and I wanted something special for my wife."
Handing Kyle the bill, the hostess, smiled and said, "Congratulations."
"Thank you," Kyle said, signing his name.
Retrieving the bill, the hostess smiled, when she noticed Kyle's expensive tip. "Have a lovely evening," she said, before retreating from the room.
Hearing the bathroom door open behind him, Kyle turned around saying, "Change of plan…" He stopped transfixed by the sight of Rachel in a red formal dress, her hair pulled back, letting it fall to caress her neck.
"Why are you looking at me like that?" Rachel said.
"You look so incredibly beautiful," Kyle said.
Stepping towards him Rachel said, "You said we were having a special dinner. I thought I would dress for the occasion. You know, you look pretty handsome yourself, all spiffed up in that suit."
They leaned in for a quick kiss, before Rachel noticed the dinner table. "Kyle," she said, "This looks wonderful. Didn't you say something about dinner under the stars?"
"I did," Kyle said, "But…" Kyle took Rachel's hand, walking to the window. Pulling back the window covering, he gestured to the pouring rain.
"We can't have dinner under the stars," Kyle said, "Because there are none."
Rachel gave a small sigh, as her head momentarily dropped to his shoulder.
"Also, I regret to tell you the soft music, is not happening," Kyle said.
"Why not?" Rachel said.
"I hired a string quartet to serenade us during dinner and they just cancelled on me," Kyle said.
"You did all that?" Rachel said.
"We still have our private dinner," Kyle said, "I'm sorry, it's not how I planned it."
"Kyle," Rachel said, taking his hands, "I don't need stars, soft music or champagne."
"We do still have that," Kyle interjected.
"All I need is to be with you," Rachel said.
"You're incredible," Kyle said.
"That's why you married me," Rachel smiled, making Kyle laugh and nod in agreement, "Besides, that dinner does smell wonderful."
Offering Rachel his arm, Kyle said, "Care to join me?"
Rachel smiled and taking his arm, she snuggled against Kyle as they walked across the room. Kyle pulled out her chair, to which she said, "Why, thank you."
Kyle poured the champagne, as they toasted their future together. Enjoying their meal, both raved about how delicious everything was.
Starting the dessert portion, Kyle said, "This is amazing."
Noticing Rachel wasn't responding, Kyle looked over to see Rachel, sitting still and not eating.
"What's wrong?" Kyle said, "I thought chocolate mousse was one of you favorites. Don't you like it?"
"The dessert is wonderful," Rachel said, "It's just…I thought I heard something."
"Like what?" Kyle said.
"A scuffling scratching noise," Rachel said, "Did you hear it?"
Shrugging Kyle said, "I didn't notice anything."
"It must have been outside," Rachel said, settling back to her dessert. Just as she took another mouthful she, startled Kyle as she exclaimed, "What was that?"
"What?" Kyle said.
"I just saw something," Rachel said, spotting it again, "There, I saw it again."
"Rachel, I don't see anything," Kyle said.
"Kyle, there is something in here," Rachel fearfully said.
Rachel shrieked as they both saw the mouse scurry across the floor. "It's just a mouse," Kyle said, "It's not going to hurt you."
"I don't like it," Rachel said.
The mouse ran under the table, sending Rachel to dive onto the bed, with a shriek.
"Baby, it's okay," Kyle said, slightly amused by her phobia.
"Get rid of it!" Rachel said.
"Okay, don't worry," Kyle said. Spying the mouse in a corner, Kyle took his jacket off, intending to catch it.
"You know, it's kind of cute," Kyle said.
"Just get rid of it!" Rachel cried.
Kyle made his move, but the mouse was too quick for him to trap. Kyle made a few more attempts, chasing the mouse back and forth across the room, before successfully ushering it out the open window.
Catching his breath, Kyle had a big grin as he started laughing.
"Is it gone?" Rachel said.
"Yes, it is," Kyle chuckled.
"Are you laughing at me?" Rachel said.
"No, I would never do that," Kyle said, "You have to admit our whole vacation has been a comedy of errors. I'm sorry, I couldn't give you the perfect honeymoon."
"You did," Rachel said, "I couldn't have asked for a better way to start our marriage."
"You're right, it was pretty great," Kyle said, "Aside from the nightmares."
"The food poisoning," Rachel said.
"The rain," Kyle said.
"The mouse," Rachel said.
"The nights," Kyle smiled.
"See?" Rachel said, "The perfect honeymoon."
Climbing onto the bed with her, Kyle said, "It's not over yet."
"There's more?" Rachel said, undoing his tie.
"Much more," Kyle said, pulling her into a kiss.