Episode 4: "The first night of
our marriage He showed me
forthwith how good a man he was...."

Jack was becoming frustrated with the time it was taking to finalize things with Hawk. It had been two days since the funeral and nothing much was happening. Jennifer kept telling him that they had to take it a day at a time but it was different for her. She was alive. Jack, meanwhile, had to hide out at the Jo's or meander around town dressed like an environmental hippie scientist. This morning he had arranged to meet Vern at Alice's Restaurant and he'd been there 30 minutes already with no sign of him. Just as Jack finished his third cup of coffee, Vern wandered in.

"Pssst! Over here." Jack whispered loudly and waved him over.

Vern turned and looked Jack up and down. "Nice outfit, Billy! Nice!" Vern chuckled to himself. Jack was wearing a loose blue denim shirt over a white t-shirt and blue jeans. On his feet he was wearing dark brown Birkenstocks.

Jack leaned in close so he could whisper. "What took you so long? I've been sitting here for at least.... well a long time. I'm not sure how long; Jennifer won't let me wear my own watch. She said that Hawk might recognize it. Sit down, sit down. What's happening, what's going on down at the paper?"

Jack had chosen a corner booth away from the crowd. Vern's shoulders slumped as he sat down opposite Jack. "Ja...."

Jack interrupted Vern before he made a mistake and spoke loudly so that the whole restaurant could hear. "Billy! Billy Johnson's my name. I'm Jack's twin brother. I don't think we've met before. I'm glad to meet you. Jack told me a lot about you."

Vern shook his head at Jack. "There's no one around. Relax."

"SSSHHHHH, the walls have ears. You never know who's listening," Jack whispered back.

"Alright, alright, alright. What the hell, couldn't we have met somewhere else?" Vern was beginning to get angry about all this delay and intrigue. "So what's next Jack? What's happening with Hawk?"

"Everything is going as planned. Mickey is making loud noises about finding an investor and Jennifer is playing BabyHowie like a violin. She's got him convinced that she really wants somebody she knows to invest in the paper but at the same time is reluctant to risk a friend's money. She's got him pegged Vern. That girl can really work a treat. You should listen to some of the lines she comes out with."

Vern was worried. "Have you been following her around? You have to keep your distance. Howie will get suspicious if Jack's brother is always on the scene."

"Would I follow her? I mean.... don't answer that. No I am not following her Vern. I just happen to.... overhear a few.... never mind. The thing is that it's working. He's getting more and more anxious to give me back my money." Jack was feeling the excitement of getting his money back and his voice was getting louder and louder. One of the customers walked past.

Jack rolled his eyes at Vern and continued as Billy. "Mr. Scofield, isn't it?"

Vern fell reluctantly into Jack's game. "Yes, Vern Scofield. I worked with your brother for quite a few years. He wasn't always easy to get on with but with my guidance we managed to keep The Spectator's head above water, until now."

Jack didn't miss Vern's comment and retorted, "I thought Jack was the owner publisher of The Spectator."

"Well he was but, you know, he didn't have much experience. Always going off half cocked, hard on the staff too. If it wasn't for me, well...."

Jack was seething. Vern never missed a chance to rub it in about the way he treated the staff. He gave Vern a cynical grin. "Having fun are we?" Jack muttered under his breath.

Vern chuckled again. He enjoyed reminding Jack of his shortcomings even though Jack was the closest thing to a son that any man could have. He loved Jack and it always surprised him when he thought about that. When Jack first bought into the paper back in Diana's day, he looked on him as the enemy. But since that time and working with him for so many years, he'd come to understand the man inside that often gruff exterior. Jack was a tender sensitive man and Vern was one of the few people to see that side of him.

"Mr. Scofield? As I was saying, it must be difficult with Jack gone."

"Aaah, yes it is." Vern leaned over very close to Jack. "We need to talk Jack. I'm really worried...."

Jack suddenly stood up. "Jennif.... Jenny! And Mr.... Hawk, yes, Hawk. I remember now. The bird of prey."

"Still in town Mr. Johnson?" Hawk was always disconcerted seeing Jack's twin around town. Just when old Jackie Boy was in the grave up pops his identical twin.

Jennifer was just as surprised to see Jack. "Billy, now nice to see you. I hope you're enjoying this time with Jo."

"Oh yes, it's great to spend some time with Mom. It's just such a shame it's under these circumstances." Jack didn't take his eyes off Hawk even when he was speaking to Jennifer. "And speaking of Jo, I must call her now. Excuse me, Jenny. Keep your eye on the sky."

Jennifer rolled her eyes as he walked over to the phone.

"Come on Hawk, let's sit down. I'm so glad you talked me into coming out for a while."

Jennifer and Hawk sat down at a table just a short distance from Vern. They ordered coffee and donuts from Ginger and as they were waiting, Hawk noticed that Jennifer seemed nervous.

"Jennifer, is something wrong? I mean more than just Jack, something else?" Hawk managed to instill just the right sympathetic tone in his voice and inside Jennifer wanted to scream.

"No, I'm fine Hawk. Well I will be fine when I find out exactly what's going on. Uncle Mickey should have Jack's will and all the details about the paper in a day or two." As soon as she mentioned the paper, Vern stood up and walked across to her.

"Jenny girl, I'm glad to see you out and about," said Vern, putting his hand gently on her shoulder. "I couldn't help but overhear you mention The Spectator. I've been trying to find the right time to talk to you about it."

"Is there a problem Vern? I mean with the paper?" Jennifer looked really worried.

Vern took a seat next to Jennifer and opposite Hawk so he could keep an eye on Hawk's reactions. "Well it's.... it's hard to put into words. Ah, it might be better if we talked alone." This was enough to keep Hawk interested.

"Oh it's alright Vern. I trust Hawk. He's been a true friend to me. Go ahead," said Jennifer, reassuring Hawk by patting his hand.

Vern got straight into it. "It's all about money, pure and simple. The Spectator is short of funds. Subscriptions are up; advertising is increasing and all in all the paper is sound. ButŠ.but with the money Jack took out of the paper, we don't have the funds to keep it going, pay salaries, etc. It's a goldmine waiting for an investor. Have you any ideas about what we can do? Has Mickey talked to Victor yet? Time is running out?.

Hawk was all ears. His mind was ticking over with the thought of all that cash rolling in and having Jennifer as well.

"I didn't realize it was so urgent Vern. I thought.... oh I'll never forgive Jack for being so irresponsible. I'll call Uncle Mickey as soon as I get home. How long do you think we have Vern?".

"Days, Jenny girl, days." Vern walked out with his shoulders slumped.

Jennifer turned to Hawk. "Oh Hawk, I don't want a stranger investing in the paper. What am I going to do? Um.... I hate to bring this up right now but last week you mentioned that you would be interested in the paper. Is that still the case? I mean I've been thinking about it and I really think Howard would be happy to see his money used for The Spectator. He had a real fond feeling for newspaper."

"Well I've been thinking about it too. But.... well you see, I.... I have a few commitments. I'm not sure." Hawk's hesitation seemed real and Jennifer wondered why he was suddenly so cool about the idea. She decided to push a little harder.

"Well if you can't see yourself clear to invest in The Spectator I understand. It's just that it's such a wonderful opportunity, you know. The paper really is profitable, very profitable. I mean you saw the way Jack lived. Money just poured in. But I understand if you're someone who likes to keep his money in the bank. Some people feel safer that way." Jennifer carefully chose her words to encourage him.

"Hmmm, well you know I've always been a man to choose the rough road or the rough bronco if you like. I'm not afraid of risks." Hawk was coming round and Jennifer closed in further.

"Oh it wouldn't be a risk at all Hawk. I wouldn't ask you to risk Howard's money. You know the paper and even more you know me. I would never lie to you Hawk and we could make sure it was all legal. I'm not like Jack. I would never manipulate a friend." She paused for a few seconds. "Well I think I better go home and think about all this. I have to call Uncle Mickey too. I'm sure Victor will be very interested. He always knows a sure thing."

She stood up to leave just as "Billy" came back from calling Jo. "Leaving so soon Jenny? I thought we could spend some time together."

"I really have to go. I've got a lot of things to sort out, you know, the paper and all of Jack's things." She half smiled at Jack in his Billy clothes.

"Sort out? You mean get rid of Jack's things, again?" He looked her straight in the eye.

Jennifer was feeling quite frisky so she decided to tease him. "Well you know he's gone now and he had some very boring clothes. All those suits and ties.... I mean he never wore anything else and anyway he won't miss them," she teased.

Jack gave her a disapproving look and moved the conversation away from his wardrobe. "I just introduced myself to Vern Scofield. He seemed like he was a good friend to Jack."

"Oh he was.... is. Unfortunately he's dealing with a very awkward situation at the moment. A situation caused by Jack. It's.... well it's money. The paper is short of cash flow. Profits are still there apparently but it needs cash to continue. Oh I'm sorry Billy; I shouldn't be burdening you with my problems. Anyway I have to go and sort some of this out. Goodbye Hawk, and goodbye Billy. Make sure you drop by before you leave." Jennifer hurried out before they could reply.

"Whoa, what was her hurry? She must really be worried. Did you say something to upset her?" questioned Jack still in his Billy persona.

Hawk defended himself instantly. "Me? Look man, I'm her friend. It's just the paper. She's really worried about it. You see she doesn't want to get involved with a stranger. She'd rather have a friend invest. I've been giving her some advice about what to do and I have a few ideas that could solve the problem."

Jack laughed inwardly at Hawk's opinion of himself. "Advice, huh? I didn't think you cowboys knew anything about big business. I mean apart from how much hay a cow eats every day. Now that leads to big business if you know what I mean.... heeheeheeh."

Hawk gave Billy a half smile. Jack's brother was a real enigma. Just when he thought he understood him, he did something off the wall. This Billy Johnson was worth watching. "You know, runnin' a ranch is big business. I.... I did it all. Feed, water, stock...."

"Yeah, yeah, yeah. I get the picture. America would have starved without you. Now tell me, what are your ideas for the paper? Do you know someone with lots of cash?".

Hawk responded quickly, hating the way Billy assumed he was a hayseed. "As a matter of fact Billy boy I do know someone with a lot of cash. You see my grandaddy left me a fortune and thanks to your brother I have it all in my hot little hands. I just might invest in the paper myself."

"You? Oh come on now, you couldn't possibly have that much money," said Jack in at attempt to find out exactly how much of his money Hawk had left.

"You'd be surprised, buddy, you'd be surprised." Hawk paused before going on. "It's just that I....well I have this deal underway.... more of an agreement with someone else. I just have to sort out what to do about that."

"Well if you have the money and you don't buy into the paper, you'll be missing the opportunity of a lifetime. I know that The Spectator is an excellent paper and very profitable. I can't tell you how many times Jack told me how profitable it was. It was his baby and he did very well out of it. But of course if you aren't interested, then I might see how much I have lying around. I think I'd fit right into the publishing industry. I could get the paper on more of an environmental bent, you know and I find I quite like this little town of Salem. I can see a lot of advantages in staying here."

Hawk listened carefully. Billy sounded sincere and Hawk knew he was right. The Spectator was a great opportunity but he had Lawrence to consider. Lawrence wasn't someone you could just flip off. But then again, why should Lawrence get all the profit? Why should he be the one to get it all? Hawk had spent enough time around Jack and Jennifer to know that this was a goldmine and it was about time that he hit the jackpot. He was sick and tired of everybody treating him like some hick cowboy. It was time they all realized that he was as capable as all of them.

Jack took a sip of Jennifer's coffee that by now had gone cold. "Irk, this coffee is terrible. Excuse me, waitress, could I have a hot cup of coffee? Hawk, coffee?".

"Ah, yeah, thanks, thanks, Billy boy."

Jack noticed that Hawk was miles away. "You seem distracted, Hawkie boy. I guess you've got a lot to think about. You know opportunities don't knock everyday even on heads as hard as yours. Look I've changed my mind about the coffee. I have to be going too. Jo expects me for dinner. I'll see ya."

"Oh goodbye Billy. See ya round."

Jack walked out, pleased at how the scheme was going. So far Hawk was falling into their trap just as they had planned. This was going to be a great week. But first, home and Jennifer. His stitches were out now and his ribs were completely healed. Tonight might be the right time to start celebrating.

Since Jennifer had ridden to her grandmother's restaurant with Hawk, she decided that it would be easier to walk to the studio than hail a cab. It was an unusually nice day for late January, bright sunlight shone blindingly white against the snow in the park making the 30 degree weather seem almost pleasantly warm. As she rounded the duck pond now frozen and serving as a skating rink, she spotted her mother-in-law sitting on a bench with a stroller beside her.

Jennifer smiled. "Hi there, Stephanie." The toddler gave a smile as Jennifer knelt beside her. "Are you out with your grandma?"

"Oh, Jennifer, I didn't see you." Jo looked over Jennifer's shoulder.

"He's not with me," Jennifer answered knowing instinctively that Jo was looking for Jack. "He's having coffee with Hawk."

"You're kidding!'

"Nope. Once Jack gets an idea in his head--"

"There's no stopping him, but isn't spending time with that man kind of dangerous? After all, he almost killed Jack."

"Jack -- not 'Billy.' Hawk doesn't have any reason to want 'Billy' dead."

Jo sighed. "It still makes me nervous."

"Things will work out. They always do. Besides--" Jennifer grinned "--I'm sort of enjoying having Billy around. He's quite a change of pace."

Jo laughed. "Definitely."

"He's actually worn jeans three times this week. Three times."

Jo smiled but Jennifer thought she saw something wistful in the expression. "Jo, what's wrong?"

"Wrong?" Jo answered in surprise. "Nothing's wrong."

Jennifer laid her hand comfortingly over her mother-in-law's. "It will all be over soon," Jennifer assured.

Jo sighed. "I know it doesn't make sense, but I'll be kind of sorry when it's all over. I'll miss Billy and him calling me Mom."

"You're Jack's mother no matter what." But seeing Jo's pensive expression Jennifer had to ask again. "What's wrong?"

"This is gonna sound terrible but with Jack the way he's been the last few days as Billy. It's like suddenly he's my son. My son, not Harper Deveraux'."

"Jo, I...."

"He's always my son, I know that. I do. I promise I do. It's just." She sighed. "This Ivy League educated man in expensive suits, it's like he's this creature from some other planet. Sometimes I can't quite figure out how he is part of me. But Billy.... Billy is my boy. For the first time, I can look at him and see part of myself."

Jennifer stared at her mother-in-law in silent astonishment.

"I told you it would sound terrible," Jo said self consciously.

"No," Jennifer protested. "No, it's not terrible, but Jo, I see you in Jack every day."

Jo cocked her head to one side as if asking a silent question.

"It's there in his eyes. He gets this look sometimes, and I see such gentleness inside him. That didn't come from Duke. It certainly didn't come from Harper."

"It came from Jack."

"And from you. He has your eyes, Jo. Haven't you ever noticed?"

"Really?"

"Yes. Really. And he loves you. I know things have never been...." Jennifer searched for the right word. "Things have never been simple for you two because of what happened. But you're his mother. He doesn't even remember Camille Deveraux, and we both know Anjelica wasn't the motherly sort. You're his mother, and I don't mind telling you that sometimes I'm incredibly jealous. I know you both regret all the time you haven't had together, but you're together now. If I could have one tenth of the relationship with my mother that you and Jack share now...."

Jo reached out and touched Jennifer's cheek. "I'm sorry, honey. I wasn't thinking."

"You and Jack have something special. A gift. And I'm lucky too. I have the greatest mother-in-law in the world."

Jo smiled tearily. "There's a reason my son loves you so much."

"He loves us both and we all have so much to be grateful for." Jennifer stood. "You know what? I think that's going to be my motto for the rest of the day. I'm going to be grateful for all that's good in my life. Like a great mother-in-law--" she kissed Jo's cheek "-- a beautiful niece --" she kissed Stephanie's forehead "--and a certain husband presently in disguise."

Jo laughed. "Have a nice day, Jennifer."

"I will. Believe me, I will," Jennifer called out over her shoulder as she continued walking through the park in the direction the studio.

After leaving Jo, Jennifer had spent the last couple hours working at the TV station; she was about to leave for home when Hawk appeared. She tried to ditch him without being too obvious -- not wanting to jeopardize all that she and Jack had done. However, in the end she had to acquiesce; she agreed to have him escort her home.Between troubles at the station and having to deal with Hawk her day had not turned out as well as she had told Jo that it would.

Now the elevator ride up to the Penthouse seemed to take an eternity. Hawk stood next to Jennifer -- all the way home he had been putting on his faux homespun charm, mixing it with digs against Jack. It had been a long day, she hated having to play up to Hawk -- with each passing day the man disgusted her more and more. Hawk droned on and on, but she only caught snippets of what he was saying; she had tuned him out. In her mind she was thinking about what she planned on telling him as soon as this scam was over. She rubbed her temples, trying to soothe her throbbing head. As if in a fog she heard the words "my famous chili." But her thoughts were focused on dumping this yahoo, taking a long hot bath, and reading her new romance novel. Well, she shook her head, she really wanted more but thanks to Hawk that was not possible. The elevator jolted to a stop, and the doors opened, causing her to snap out of her thoughts.

"...I said, do you have a headache...."

It took all Jennifer could do not to say out loud that she was looking at it, at him. "Yes!"

"I have the perfect cure, some of Hawk's famous chili. The perfect cure for those cowgirl blues," he flashed one of his hokey smiles, "I remember how it helped you forget Jack after he left you."

Thanks to you. She swallowed back the bile that was forming in her throat. "Thanks, so much. But I really need to spend the time alone, I wasted all these past few day trying to work on the mess with the paper, and I have neglected my real work for the station." She hesitated, and then patted his shoulder. "I really appreciate all that you have done for me. But I'll have to take a rain check. When all this mess with the paper is settled, then I'll pay you back for all that you've done for me." Her bitter sarcasm -- acquired from all the years knowing with Jack -- was lost on him. Inwardly she smiled at the thought of Hawk getting his just desserts -- it almost, almost made her headache feel better.

Hawk waved goodbye as the elevator doors closed. She walked across the hall to her door, muttering curses and disparaging remarks aimed at BabyHowie. She signed deeply as she put the key into the lock. She hated entering an empty penthouse; and hated even more the fact that she would have to spend yet another night alone. She and Jack had not been able to spend the night together since his "funeral" -- that was several days ago; and worse yet she and Jack had not been intimate since before his "untimely death"; she did not even want to think about all those lost months of their early married life that Hawk snatched from them -- that is what angered her more than anything, all those stolen moments.

She turned the key , opened the door, and entered the darkened penthouse. Speaking out loud, mimicking Hawk's "'Hawk's famous chili,' I'll 'famous chili you, you...you... bolo wearing hayseed...." She flipped on the light switch but nothing happened. "Great...that's just great...." She walked across the room and ran into the couch, "Dammit..... damn.... damn.... damn...." she kicked it in disgust. "This is for you....y...you... you.... trailer park cowboy wannabe.... Oh, I can't wait until I can give you a piece of my mind, BabyHowie.... " Jennifer made a guttural noise, "....oh, just you wait, you two bit cowboy junkie, hayseed, clodhopper...." She gave the couch another kick. "Finally.... finally Jack gets his stitches out, and here I am stuck in the dark, Jack's at his mother's. I swear as soon as this is over, I am going to pluck every feather from your scrawny body."

At that instant a familiar voice sprang out of the darkness, "Let there be light," and with that the lamp next to the couch came on. There on the other end of the couch sat Jack, still dressed as Billy, his legs and feet stretched out on their coffee table; looking at a book about African art.

Jennifer stopped and smiled at the sight of Jack, and her heart seemed to skip a beat. The sight of Jack always affected her; and tonight in his so atypical Jack attire he looked even more gorgeously handsome, sexy, and most of all desirable.

"You realize talking to yourself out loud is the first sign of dimentia?"

She said nothing, and walked over to the couch and sat as close to Jack as possible; she dropped her legs across his, intertwined his finger in hers, and rested her head on his chest. She felt a warm glow shoot through her body at the mere feel of his person; she drank in his feel, and his smell. Her love for him was overpowering, a pleasant narcotic. Jack too was overcome with a sense of peace, and profound love. They sat quietly, their eyes closed, gently breathing in unison.

Jack was the first to speak, flashing a wry smile, "Well, the Merry Widow Deveraux is after a new conquest, and her dear husband is not even cold in the ground. And with her brother-in-law nonetheless -- shocking, scandalous, sinful.

"Well, actually he's not in the ground, his ashes are.... well.... by now, fish food; but that is apropos since Jack always was a...." she flashed a look which was both playful and seductive, "....cold fish."

Meanwhile, Jennifer had been fiddling playfully with his ring finger. Jack was about to make what he thought to be a witty comeback. Just then it dawned on her that Jack was not wearing his wedding band. She grabbed his hands, pinning him down, and leaned over him menacingly, "Mr. Deveraux what the heck did you do with your wedding ring?"

"Wedding ring, what wedding ring?"

Jennifer playfully began to twist his arm."

"Uncle!!!! Uncle...."

Jennifer let him squirm a moment then let go.

I'm Billy remember, single and fancy free, unencumbered by the shackles--"

Jennifer pinned him even harder, her lips nearly touching his, her hair brushing against his face."

"--sadly not fortunate enough to be blessed by the blessed bonds of connubial bliss. Jennifer flashed him a look.

"Okay, I think even Hawk would become suspicious if Billy was wearing a wedding ring, don't you? Anyway, don't worry, it's in a safe place."

"Great, just great! This from a man that can't find his car, a green--"

"Actually forest green--"

"A green Jag in the parking lot."

"I said it is in a safe place!!"

A wicked grin flashed across Jennifer's face, and she looked down towards Jack's lap.

Jack quickly reached for her hand, "No you don't Widow D.! BillyBoy is saving himself in protest for the.... the.... the spotted owl."

"Don't flatter yourself. I just meant that that is your hiding place of choice. The diary pages. The gun."

"Yeah, right I know what you want.... And no it is not hidden there. Jo has it safely hidden. And will not lose it on pain of death."

Jack leaned behind the couch and brought out a small box, tied up in a red ribbon. Jennifer grabbed for it. But Jack lifted it up over her reach. "Now, now.... the card says 'For the Widow D.' I need proof that you are that person."

"Jack--"

Jack looked her.

"Okay Billy. If you don't watch out I really will be the Widow D."

"Touchy.... touchy. It must be that time of the mon.... nevermind." He handed her the present.

Jennifer was in the process of tearing off the ribbon when Jack stopped her. "Hey, aren't you going to at least read the card."

Jennifer tore open the card. She frowned, and squinted her eyes. After some time she trusted it into Jack's hands. "I could never read yo.... I mean Jack's handwriting."

Jack frowned at her. He began to read the card aloud, "To the Merry Widow D. Note the color black. The perfect attire for grieving widows. Enjoy. With all my The 'L' Word, Lazarus, aka JD."

Jennifer flashed a quizzical look at Jack. She tore up the gift box to reveal a black "Merry Widow." She smiled with glee, and held it up against herself. Letting it drop, she threw her arms around Jack and gave him a passionate kiss on the lips. "Thank you..." She kissed him again. "Thank you. " She kissed him a third time, "Thank you! This is soo.... sooo.... special Jack. Who'd have thought my 'cold fish' husband would think of something like this."

"Hey I resent that... I mean remember I'm Billy. I'm saving myself until those California condors--"

"I thought you said spotted owls?"

"Oh, yeah, the condors were last year.... until those spotted owls find a home."

"You know since it's here and all. And since it seems to be a gift from my 'cold fish' departed husband, I should try it on. And I was wondering since you are his identical twin maybe I can model it for you. Just to honor his memory."

Jennifer moved on top of Jack, running her hands up and down his chest. She then sensually kissed the corner of his lips; next his cheek; then his forehead, brushing away the bang that drooped over his eye; followed by his eyes; then the tip of his nose; and lastly she brushed her lips against his playfully but pulled back just as he was about to respond."

"But.... but what about...."

Jennifer nibbled at his ear, and then seductively blew in it. "I think Jack, and the owls won't mind."

"Well, okay.... but just modeling. Nothing more!"

Jennifer picked up the Merry Widow, and giggled as she ran into the bedroom. Jack reclined on the couch, and gazed up towards the ceiling with a satisfied smile.

Jack noticed Jennifer's novel on the table. He looked at it and pulled a face. Several minutes passed, and he glanced at his watch impatiently. His eyes wandered back towards the book; but he immediately glanced away. A few seconds later, they wandered back. He made a little motion with his hand and picked it up, Wilhemina the Wanton Widow. He shuddered, and was about to put it down, but opened it up instead.

He leafed through the pages, and stopped, Jack began to read "Manfred showered her with kisses over her lips, down her throat, and onto her heaving bosom; he was completely different than her late husband the Reverend John Williamson, so cold, priggish, and obsessed with money." Jack frowned, and continued to read. "Wilhemina's body was on fire, but she was reluctant to put out the feverish blaze that was so alien to her." Jack raised his eyebrow as he read "He lowered her down upon his bed; and ripped off her bodice." Jack's eyes got wider and wider. "He took her arms in his and moved them up and down his manly chest; then moved them lower and....low...." Jack looked over towards the bedroom, and then continued to read. "She gave herself completely to his manliness. Their bodies intertwined, it was impossible to say where he ended and she began...." Jack stopped, and then skipped ahead "Their bodies moved in perfect unison as the full force of their love exploded to a crescendo--"

Jack heard the bedroom door shut and dropped the book on the table; he struck up a nonchalant pose just as Jennifer appeared in the living room. Jack was awestruck by her appearance, she looked innocent, beautiful, and seductive all at once. She walked slowly across the room, smiling; she knew that Jack was just as excited at the prospects of a romantic night together as she was.

She sat demurely on the far side of the couch, but leading Jack on silently with her eyes.

Jennifer continued to gaze into his eyes; those divinely beautiful and expressive eyes that continued to take her breath away. The windows to Jack's soul, beautiful, loving, sensitive, and wonderful.

Jack realized that though the game was fun, it now was time to take action -- spurred on by Manfred and Wilhemina. He eased over next to her, and taking her hand motioned for her to sit on his lap. She followed his guidance and did so, wrapping her arms around his neck. Jack began to kiss her throat, and she responded. Their lips met in a passionate kiss. Reluctantly their lips pulled apart as they both instinctively knew it was time.

Jack laughed.

"What's so funny?"

"Well I've heard of headaches being an excuse not to, but never that it was a cure for headaches"

Surprised, Jennifer looked at him "Wait, how did you know?"

"I'm psychic.... no I was listening to you and Hawk."

"I should have known you're such a snoop."

Jennifer, kissed Jack on the cheek, "Well, I'm all better now. And it's all because I have a very special and sexy doctor." Jennifer added, "But what about your dear deceased brother?"

"Well, you know what they say 'Brotherly love' and all that. 'Share and share alike.' 'He ain't heavy he's my brother.' I don't think he'll mind. And if he does, who cares?" "What about your husband?"

Winking, Jennifer replied, "Ah... I don't think he'll mind; do you? But more importantly, what about the spotted owls."

"Ah, let Woody worry about them tonight."

They both laughed. Then in a grand romantic gesture Jack swept Jennifer off her feet. "Anyway, this is just an experiment to see just how merry widows really are." And with that Jack carried her into their bedroom.

Hawk found it impossible to get any closer to Jennifer. She told him that she was relying on him but everytime he made a positive move to get her to really forget Jack, she backed away. He knew that her main concern was The Spectator and until that was sorted out, she wouldn't be able to think about her personal life. He was also fed up with being Lawrence Alamain's middle man. Every time he turned around people were telling him what to do and now he couldn't even get in contact with Lawrence. It seemed he was out of town on more pressing business.

Hawk left Jennifer's building and went to a coffee shop across the road. He pulled out his cell phone and pressed Speed Dial for Lawrence. The phone rang three times then the message started in.

"Damn!" Hawk whispered to himself. He didn't leave a message but pressed End and put the phone back in his pocket. He'd had enough. He'd been in charge of this Spectator deal for over a week now while Lawrence was away so why should he continue to report back. It was time he took control of the situation for himself. Jennifer wanted him to invest in The Spectator and if Lawrence and those other speculators were interested then it must be a sure fire way to make a fortune. He was also well aware of the added bonus seeing Jennifer every day. He would be her saviour and she would be eternally grateful.

He ordered a cup of coffee and while he sipped it, he contemplated the outcome of going it alone. Lawrence could do nothing. It was him, Howard Hawkins III who would own The Spectator. He would have power and money, and if he played his cards right, he'd get the girl too. Now that would really show Lawrence who had always had a thing about Jennifer which Hawk had never really understood. It was probably just jealousy of Jack. Well damn the lot of them. This time it was Hawk's turn to be on top. He paid for the coffee and left. As soon as he walked outside he glanced up at the penthouse.

"Jenny girl, it's time you forgot old Jackie boy for good. Now it's time for me. I didn't get the name Hawk for nothing. Sharp, that's what I am, sharp!"

He felt his senses sharpen and he began to whistle his favorite Little Jimmy Dickens tune as he sauntered off down the street.

Jennifer lay in mindless contentment but finally gave into the need to stretch. When she moved, she opened her eyes and saw Jack watching her with a slight smile.

"Well that was interesting," he drawled.

She arched a brow. "Interesting?"

"Well what would you call it, Mrs. Deveraux?"

She rolled back into the pillows. "Interesting."

"You say that like you think it's a bad thing."

"Well, 'bone melting' seems a bit more.... descriptive."

He looked absurdly hopeful. "Really?"

"Don't sound like I just gave you a gift."

Jack laughed. "Didn't you?"

She threw a pillow and hit him in the face. He smiled crookedly and placed the pillow under his head. Silence stretched and slowly Jack's expression became serious. "Interesting is a good thing, you know. I think it's important."

She wasn't sure what to say as Jack took her hand, turned his head, and kissed her wedding band. "The other day when I was going nuts in the dining room while you were talking to Baby Howie, " he told her. "Jo said something. At the time I wanted to dismiss it, but she may have been onto something."

Jennifer propped herself on one elbow and gazed at him.

"She said that all the stuff leading up to a wedding is the exciting stuff. It's like you're heading toward this goal, this finish line. The thing is, it's not a finish line. It's just a demarcation between the build-up and the point where real life begins. Ordinary life. Maybe that's where we started falling apart. Maybe that was why it was so easy for us to get caught up in this mess with BabyHowie. Maybe that's why we even sort of enjoy this mess." He paused. "But when it's over, when it's back to 'ordinary' again...."

"What are you trying to say?"

He raised her left hand so that the light glinted off her wedding ring. "I don't want us lose each other."

She shook her head. "We aren't going to. We've been through too much together."

"But maybe that's just it. Maybe we aren't cut out for ordinary."

She lifted her hand and traced the line of light and shadow the hall light cast on his features. "Ordinary, extraordinary -- it doesn't matter. Jack, do you honestly think that just because we won't play dress up every day or head out to the nearest foreign country in search of the next big scoop that I could stop wanting to be with you? That I could stop needing you? Do you think I could ever need or want anyone else?"

Gathering the sheet around her, she sat up to look him in the eye and say very seriously, "There could never be anyone else. No--" she stopped him as he would have protested. "I'm not just making some starry eyed, romantic protest. I mean it. After Lawrence--"

He pressed his fingers to her lips. "Jennifer, don't."

She shook her head. "I was so scared that I would never -- "she broke off abruptly and searched for the words. "Even on our wedding night, I was scared. You know that." Her eyes locked with his and that night was as clear and a vivid to them as it had been then.

She had walked into the bedroom to see candlelight and roses. It had been perfect, simply perfect and she had told him so. Jack had made some self deprecating remark and then had told her he loved her. She had answered in kind and in a kiss they had settled upon the bed.

But when he had kissed the juncture of her shoulder and throat, she had stiffened and pain shot through her because she saw the look in Jack's eyes when she had pulled away.

"Would you rather I stop?" he had asked.

"No."

"But when I touch you...."

"I'm sorry I pulled away. I didn't mean to," she explained.

"I know, but...."

"No buts," she insisted. "I want you to touch me." But he looked at her and they both knew what -- or rather who -- stood between them. "It's our wedding night, Jack."

His tender touch only saddened her. "It's not a deadline, Jennifer. There's no rule that says we have to."

"But I love you," she told him. "And I don't want us to sleep apart. I'm just afraid that what happened before at the cabin will happen again." She rubbed her hand as if it still ached from the slap she had inflicted on Jack. "I couldn't control that and I don't want to.... to mess things up again. I couldn't take losing you now."

Jack shook his head. "You have nothing to be afraid of. That time I didn't know what had happened to you. Now I do. I won't do anything to make you uncomfortable. We can just talk. I can wait, Jennifer. Just because it's traditional doesn't mean anything has to happen. I can wait for when you are really ready."

Jack stood. "Why don't I leave you alone a few minutes to change into something to sleep in?

"You won't go?" she asked anxiously.

"Not far."

"No, not right this minute, I mean tonight. You'll stay with me."

I'll stay."

Jennifer's eyes locked with Jack's as the memory of their wedding night lived between them. Jack sat up suddenly and kissed her. "I'm sorry," he told her.

"What for?" she asked in surprise.

"I should never have pulled that disappearing act when I went to New York." He gave a sad smile. "No wonder you were so angry you threw out my clothes and drew a line down the middle of the living room."

"We aren't going into who made what mistakes with Hawk again are we? Because if we are, I have to tell you that I should have known you would never leave me. I should have been on the next plane to NYC looking for you. Something awful could have happened -- What am I saying? Something awful did happen to you." She touched his face. "I didn't help you when you needed me most and I feel awful about that especially when you got me through the most difficult time of my life. I don't think I ever even thanked you."

He grinned crookedly, "Not only is it unnecessary to thank a groom for a wedding night, it probably isn't a good idea. You never know, he might get arrogant about it."

"You? Arrogant? Never!" And she laughed. It felt so good to laugh, to be free of the old dark shadows.... and she was. She was because of him. "Thank you, Jack. Thank you for everything."

Jack's promise to return had set Jennifer's mind at ease as she changed from her wedding gown into the silk nightgown and negligee that Julie had given her. The nights Jack had stayed with her after the train crash had shown Jennifer how much she craved physical closeness, and Jennifer wondered at Jack's offer to wait until she was 'really ready.'

How would she ever know unless she tried?

She stood at the window of the bedroom pondering the question when, without fanfare, he came into the room. "Hello," she said a bit shyly.

"Hello," he answered, returning her smile with an equally hesitant one of his own. He surveyed her negligée. "That's a pretty thing."

"Thank you."

Wordlessly and a bit awkwardly, they approached the bed, each standing on the opposite side looking at the other. Her fingers trembled as they found the ribbon that fastened the throat of negligée. She untied the bow and the allowed the robe to slip free of her shoulders, puddling on the floor then turning back the duvet she crawled between the sheets. Seconds later she felt the bed dip as Jack eased himself into the bed beside her.

With sudden resolve she turned toward him, and they lay face to face. Jack stroked her hair as Jennifer watched his hand, wondering what he was thinking as he touched her. She had never forgotten his tenderness, the slow, sensuous grace of his fingers. Such a contrast to -- But the memory had no place between them and she deliberately put the thought aside and closed her eyes willing herself to concentrate on the feel of Jack's touch. He loved her. She knew it down to her bones. This gentle, forgiving, wonderful man loved her and she was amazed and grateful.

Jennifer snuggled into bed. "Well I don't want to be accused of making you more arrogant than you already are," she murmured. "But you were pretty incredible on our wedding night."

He collapsed beside her. "You don't have to tell me."

She yanked a pillow from beneath his head and held it threateningly. "I could smother you with this you know."

"I can see the headline. Black widow -- first her husband and now her lover.... Billy."

She looked to be seriously considering smothering him so he suddenly turned over, trapping her beneath him. She giggled. God, but he loved that sound. It made everything so.... right somehow. Jennifer hadn't been the only one nervous on their wedding night. He had been nearly paralyzed with fear.

When she had turned to face him when he had gotten into bed he had known -- despite everything -- she meant to try to consummate their marriage.... tonight. Stubborn, intrepid Jennifer would never give in and simply accept fate. He loved that about her, but he also worried that no matter how stubborn she was she could not always conquer fate.

Jack let his hand drift from her hair to her bare shoulder. When she didn't pull away he reached out to hold her -- loosely -- against him. Anxiously, he searched her face but didn't see fear and a relieved sigh escaped him. Jack was not so confident of himself that he believed that he could always tell what a woman wanted. He understood her fears and only hoped that somehow he, the most unlikely man alive, could somehow put her fears to rest.

He had made it clear that he didn't want her to do anything because she felt pressured or because she wanted to please him. The choice had to be hers -- because she wanted it. Because she loved him. She loved him.... How amazing was that? Jack could still barely believe she had chosen to marry him. Not to fulfill someone else's expectations. Not as a second choice, but simply because she wanted him. Because she had chosen him.

Jennifer gave a smile that reached a place in his heart that no one had ever touched, and he knew that he would wait for her as long as it took -- whatever it took. Maybe the best thing to do was to let Jennifer move at her own pace. Let her make the choices. She'd had no choice with Lawrence, and maybe she needed to be in control of her own body and desires. Jack resolved to give her that control. No matter how difficult it would be for him to restrain himself when he wanted her so badly, he would do it.

Jennifer scooted closer and leaned up to kiss him -- a hesitant, uncertain brush. He smiled at her and she smiled back.... and kissed him again only this time more boldly. She ran her hand down his neck and across his chest. With great restraint he kept his own hands curled in loose fists, one at his side and the other at her back. She ended the intimate kiss, but her lips lingered almost touching his.

"Alright?" he asked.

"Better than alright." She kissed him again -- slowly, languorously making him want to grab her but he concentrated on relaxing his limbs.

She pulled back and there was a thoughtful expression on her features. Fear sluiced through him for a moment that it was all too much but then a glorious smile lit her features. "I think this may work," she said with great satisfaction and Jack forced himself to wait for her spoken or implied demands before he did things he ached to do. And slowly, but surely, she showed him what she liked and requested more....

Jennifer had stopped laughing. "I don't care if it does make you arrogant, you were wonderful to me. Perfect for me. " She looked at him now and there was a glint of an unshed tear in her eye. "How could you ever worry we would run into problems if things got "ordinary." How could we ever be ordinary ?"

He touched her cheek and kissed her tenderly. "I'm sorry."

"She gave a playful pout. "You should be," then said more seriously, "I won't lose you. And you won't lose me either. We may mess up from time to time but we're stuck with each other for life."

He smiled. "Not a bad idea."

"Not a bad idea at all," she seconded. "Not at all."

Jennifer awoke; she blinked a few times to focus her eyes. Jack was asleep, his head resting on her chest and his arm stretched across her waist. Seeing him she smiled contentedly. She lay back quietly just watching Jack sleep peacefully. She lovingly brushed aside his bangs, and kissed his forehead. After a few moments Jack began to stir. He opened one eye and then the other, returning Jennifer's smile.

"I think tonight we set numerous records Widow D."

Jennifer bent down toward him and he leaned up towards her, and they kissed.

"I must admit that I was pretty good."

"You, Widow D., always after that by-line."

"Damn straight, as long as I share it with my wonderful husband." Jennifer looked into Jack's eyes, "You know anytime we work together as a team it is always is wonderful. Making love. Working on an article. Teaming up for an adventure." She took Jack's hand.

Jack nodded his head in agreement.

"Anyway, again I would have to agree it was pretty amazing; but the night is not over yet."

"'Tis true, but I think we need to take some time out -- half-time -- for nourishment and refueling. For some reason I forgot to eat this evening."

Jack slipped out of the bed and turned around to see Jennifer flashing a Cheshire cat sized grin. Jack knitted his brow and looked at her, "What are doing?"

Jennifer scanned Jack's body and her grin grew even wider, "Oh, just admiring the scenery. And enjoying the fact it all belongs to me."

Jack rolled his eyes in embarrassment, "Claiming ownership of my person?"

"Definitely. It's all mine!" Jennifer rolled out the bed and stood next to Jack, "And what do you think?"

It was now Jack's turn to stare and to gaze. "Hmm, oh yeah. Well, umm," He looked down at his own body, "I know that it needs toning up, but...." He then looked down, and continued, "....but if I do say so myself, you're right it isn't bad."

"No, I mean...." Jennifer moved closer to Jack, practically pressing against him. She cleared her throat. "And?"

Jack smiled sheepishly and stared at her, "Well, yeah, the view in front of me is pretty impressive too."

Jennifer moved even closer, their bodies touching. She got up on her tip toes. Jack was expectant. Jennifer then whispered seductively into Jack's ear, "Last one in the kitchen is a rotten egg." She then picked up Jack's denim shirt that he had thrown onto the floor, and put it on.

"Hey wait, that's my shirt."

She ran towards the door closing it behind her.

"Jennifer wait.... hey that's not fair. You cheated -- but then again you always cheat. That's the only way you can beat a superior opponent."

Jennifer stopped outside the door, and leaned against it, listening to Jack. She laughed as she heard him mumble and crash into things.

Some time later, Jack, wearing his satin robe and nothing else, walked quickly across their living room.

Jack entered into the kitchen to find a candle lit table, with an assortment of food and a chilled bottle of champagne. Jennifer was already munching on a drumstick; her plate filled with food. She continued to eat obliviously as he sat down next to her. Jack watched with amusement as she stuffed some of Jo's Green Noodle Casserole into her mouth.

"It would be a shame to waste this champagne."

Jennifer did not reply.

"I said it would be a shame to waste this champagne."

Jack shook his head. And proceeded to pour himself a glass.

At that moment Jennifer looked over and took Jack's glass. "Thank you Jack."

Jack, resigned to the situation, just poured himself another glass. He was about to take a sip when Jennifer stopped him, "How about a toast?"

"Okay.... let's see.... hmmm.... to a pair of chickens giving ChickenHawk BabyHowie what he deserves."

"And Jennifer chimed in, "And to the greatest team ever, us two chickens."

They clinked together their glasses and took a sip.

A short time later, the bottle was empty and all the food had been eaten. Jack reached for the remaining donut, but Jennifer snatched it away from him. He looked at her in surprise. She swallowed it down almost whole, and then looked over to Jack, "What are you staring at?"

"Ah, me, oh, nothing.... nothing."

Then the tone of his voice shifted, and Jack began to speak soberly, "Okay, seriously we really should go over the plan now while we're alone. Our whole future is riding on this. I know I tend towards hyperbole, but not in this case. Getting our money back will provide us with an income, with security. I can pay off the debts to bank and keep control of my paper."

Jennifer nodded in agreement.

"Because I do plan on getting the paper back. I do plan on making it respectable again. The words 'The Salem Spectator' will invoke respect, it will be synonymous with journalistic integrity, hard boiled journalism, and more. The name Deveraux will mean something; it will not be equated with the perversions of society, but damn good reporting."

Jennifer looked over to Jack, sadly. She knew what Jack meant, despite trying to hide The Chronicle obituary from Jack, he found it and read it. She knew what it said about him, all the snide, subtle little comments about The Spectator being a high school newspaper. About Jack's lack of journalistic skills, that he bought it with his money as a rich boy's toy. That through his ownership it failed; through foolishness and poor business skills he lost it. And this tore at her heart; she hated seeing Jack in pain; she hated it when others could not see in Jack all that she did -- what she had seen in him since their earliest days working together -- what a wonderful and talented man he was.

"Jack stop thinking about what they said about you in The Chronicle. As we both know that the paper isn't good enough to line a bird cage. Jack, you made The Spectator into one of the best in the country. And you are one of the best journalists around--"

"Thanks, but aren't you rather biased. You're my wife."

"Yes, I-am-your-wife. But it's true. Jack, I have never seen anyone that can write as well as you, you're intelligent, witty, you have a way with words. And you're insightful."

Jack flashed a weak smile. "My feisty cob reporter, huh.... prepared to do battle on my behalf against the evil editor of The Chronicle."

"Always! I love you, Jack; and again I have faith in you and your talents."

"Jennifer, really, you could not have written that editorial response like you wanted without causing our sting to come crashing down upon us."

"Well, I still plan on giving them a piece of my mind once this is all over."

Jack laughed, "You know I was thinking. Actually there probably was a better way for us to get our money back from BabyHowie."

Jennifer looked over towards Jack with interest, "Really how?"

Jack paused a moment for effect, "Well, I was thinking if I had handed you over to him, after two days, three tops your stubborn, obstinent, pigheaded , bossy, opinionated personality would drive him crazy. Of all people, I should know--"

"Jack. You're treading on dangerous ground"

He ignored her and continued, "He'd be begging me to take you back.... beggin'.... He'd do anything. Pay anything. The full five mil. -- and he probably would even have included prime rate interest."

"Okay this is your last warning!"

"Yeah, but I have gotten use to it -- to you. You're lucky, I'm the only person who can live with your many faults."

Jack's expression became serious again, "Anyway, we probably shouldn't meet again like this until it's over. I really shouldn't have come tonight, but I couldn't resist."

Jennifer smiled, "I am glad you did."

"Okay, so let's figure this out. Today is the.... the.... 8th of February--"

"No it's the 9th--"

"Sorry, but it's the 8th!

"It's after midnight, therefore it is the 9th...." Jennifer grinned up at him, "And now, who's being a pain?"

"Okay, it's the 9th. That leaves you a couple of days to reel BabyHowie in, and get the papers signed by the 10th. Mickey has everything set up, right?"

Jennifer nodded her head.

"We need to make sure that Hawk doesn't discover what we're up to; and that everything is done legal and kosher so that once we get his signature on that document the money is ours -- or more precisely, our money is ours again."

"Well, Mickey assured me that everything is fine; the document is written up and ready to be signed. Nice and legal."

"Well, alea iacta est; we have crossed our own Rubicon. Hopefully, in a few days time victory will ours, instead of it being our Ides of March."

Jennifer looked at Jack, she could tell that the remarks in The Chronicle still bothered him. She could see the pained look in his eyes. She meant what she said, it was not bias, she truly knew that he was a terrific journalist.

Jennifer got up and sat on Jack's lap. She smiled and kissed him on his cheek. He looked down at her, and kissed her forehead.

Trying to lighten the mood, "Well, Jack, you know you're difficult too, argumentative, devious, manipulative, and most of the time very obnoxious. I think your pal Cindy the Rump Roast would have thrown you back too. I guess that means we're both stuck with each other. And since you plan on living until you're 106, and I plan on matching you, that means we're going to be together for very, very, very a long time."

"I guess so."

"And as I said earlier I wouldn't want it otherwise."

"I guess, neither would I."

Jennifer got up and reached for Jack's hands. She pulled him up and smiled, deviously. "I think half-time is over; don't you." She began to unbutton her shirt -- Jack's blue denim -- and slipped it off.

"Well, that sure came off faster than the merry widow."

"Yeah, well Jack, you're all thumbs; if you had listened to my advice you'd have taken it off me much quicker."

Before he could reply, she reached for the belt to his robe, and loosened it; then slipped the robe off him. Finally, She pulled him to an embrace.

Feigning shock, "Jennifer, here? Now?

She held him tighter and kissed him passionately; and he returned the kiss just as passionately.

---

*The photos used for Billy/Jack were taken from Matthew's
time playing Dr. Tom Hardy on General Hospital

---

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