Contra Mundum: Ep. 15

On the night of January 11th, the night of the big storm, Frederick Hampton Bartlett was murdered in his mansion on the lake, shot twice with his own high powered hunting rifle, which was kept locked in a cabinet in his personal office/library. His personal house staff of ten had been given the night off, and his body was not discovered until the next day. The police found no evidence of a forced entry, nor any sign of robbery. Their prime suspect soon became Christianna Bartlett, Frederick's only child and the sole heir to his estate — valued at over 55 million dollars. After hiring the renowned attorney Cochoran Bailey, Christianna confessed to the murder, citing self-defense — according to her, she had been subjected to mental, physical, and sexual abuse by her father for over twenty years. The state was going for Murder One; for them the murder had been planned well in advance, Christianna was a cold and calculating murderer, motivated by greed. The state was trying to prove that she loved the high life, expensive clothes, jewelry, cars; because of her lifestyle, according to some of his associates, Frederick Bartlett had decided to fire her from her high powered position at his bank and was even thinking about changing his will. During the trial each side brought in their own acquaintances of both Frederick and Christianna, psychiatrists, doctors, forensic scientists, and others to prove their case. It was the perfect story for the media, a real life soap; Christianna with her looks, bearing, skill before the cameras, and tragic tale played to public sentiment, she was the abused victim, not the cold and calculating murderer the police and state tried to portray.
Thanks to Jack's machinations the story was taken away from Madeline and given to Jennifer. During Jack's absence, Jennifer had been feverously covering the trial, doing on air reports twice a day; and the coup de gras an interview with Christianna — again thanks to Jack. The interview had gone fabulously, bringing Jennifer praise, and high ratings for WATB. Upon interviewing Christianna, Jennifer had become one of her biggest champions.

CHAPTER ONE: ALICE'S RESTAURANT.
The judge had called for a recess for the rest of the day, so Jennifer had decided to go home to eat and rest. She had slept restlessly since Jack had left, missing him desperately. Before going upstairs, she had dropped by Alice's Restaurant to say hello to her grandmother. Alice had suggested she eat there, but Jennifer had wanted to be in her apartment, in case Jack called. She entered the dark, empty apartment and sighed, work kept her mind off how much she missed her husband, being alone in their apartment caused all those feelings to resurface. She checked her messages, again nothing from Jack — it had been over ten days and no word. Looking in the fridge she saw nothing that appealed to her. She let out a deep sigh and decided to take up her grandmother's offer.
"I'm back. I decided to take up your offer after all." The weather had been perfect, "Spring was in the air" as the song goes, and unfortunately so were the lovers. It seemed as if everyone in the restaurant was paired off — except her. With Jack away, plus the tension that had existed between them for the past two months, she was not receptive to a room full of happy couples. This place is worse than Noah's Ark she cynically thought to herself. Three booths over she saw Marcus with Desiree. The two had become close the past month, and they looked as if they were enjoying each other's company. She did not want them to see her, she was not in the mood to deal with them; so she tried to obscure herself with a menu. She peeked over the menu and watched as they got up; quickly she raised it; seeing them pay and leave, she thought to herselfThank goodness.

She may have dodged them, but she looked up to see John and Isabella standing at her table, holding hands and looking extremely happy. "May we join you?"

Great that's all I need. They're everywhere! Romance, bah humbug " Of course," Jennifer smiled politely. She had not seen Isabella in almost two weeks, she was surprised to see that John had returned and that they looked as if all their problems had been resolved. If only the same could be true for her and Jack.

"Jennifer, I'm glad we found you. Has Jack returned? And was he able to track down his father's money?"Isabella asked. John flashed a look at Isabella, and immediately she realized what she had done.

Jennifer became excited, "You saw Jack in Lucerne. How was he, I haven't heard from him since he left?"
John froze for a second, saying nothing. He and Isabella looked at each other. "Ah, No.... no...." Despite his promise to Jack he had eventually come clean to Isabella and told Jack's role in getting him to return. Suddenly John remembered that Jack had told him had come over with Julie. "No.... no.... Jack.... no, I didn't see Jack. But Julie I ran into Julie in Lucerne and she told me about Jack." He did not know why Jack did not want Jennifer to know, but that was his business — frankly he never could figure out Jack Deveraux.
Jennifer could not put her finger on it but there was something. Nah, she was just imagining it. But still....
John signaled to Isabella to change the subject, "Oh, yeah.... Well John and I are getting married in two weeks." John took her hand and they smiled at each other. "I would love to have you be my matron of honor and John would like ask Jack to be his best man."
Jennifer got up and hugged Isabella and then John. "Congratulations. I'd love too. But I'm surprised you want Jack, I'd have thought Bo?"

Again Jennifer perceived a subtle glance between them. John seemed to pause a moment, "Jack, Jack's my bud," John replied."

Strange, Jennifer thought. Before she was going to reply, Isabella cut in, "Yeah, remember the Great Bayview escape; if it wasn't for Mr. Deveraux, John and I never would have gotten together. Right John?"

"Yeah, if it wasn't for Jack I'd have never found my IzzyB."

Alice brought them their lunch , and then they sat and talked. John and Isabella filled Alice and Jennifer in on all that had happened in Switzerland, including the truth about who he really was — of course leaving out the part about Jack.

After they had left, Jennifer remained, she was not ready to return to their empty apartment. She glanced over and saw a college couple kissing passionately. "Geez, get a room why don't you," she said under her breath.

She had not noticed Alice, "Jennifer Rose"

"You'd think people would refrain in public—"

She noticed Alice's amused smile, "Where's my romantic Jennifer Rose, you sound like your husband. You miss him, don't you."

"What?" she asked her grandmother.

"It's that obvious?"

Alice smiled knowingly at Jennifer, "Yes; it's that obvious. Still no word from Jack?" Jennifer nodded, "Well, he's probably very busy. And you know your husband, he found out the international phone ratings—"

Jennifer's mood darkened. Alice sat down concerned by Jennifer sudden mood swing, "Jennifer?"

"Do you think that's all? You know I've told you that Jack hasn't been responsive and hasn't seemed happy about the baby. We rarely talk, he changes the subject when I mention the baby; he's rarely home; and we haven't ... you know.... for some time. Maybe he doesn't want to come back.... I'm getting fatter—"

Alice interrupted her, "Jennifer Rose Deveraux! Jack Deveraux loves you, and yes your baby more than anything else in the world. That is one thing in the world that I'm positive about. Jack just needs to feel in control, I know the money doesn't matter to you, but it's important for Jack to feel.... to feel that he's a success. And as for the baby, well it's bound to be difficult for him at first. All fathers go through a period of adjustment time. Tom did—

"Granddad?

"Yes, your grandfather, even after Tommy and Addie, he was nervous and uncertain. And Jack.... well, with Jack's past.... his father and step-father, of course that dredges up his uncertainties. I really think this time apart is good for the both of you. It will give him time to think. And I bet you a dozen donuts of my donuts that when he returns he'll have gotten use to the idea and will be as happy as you. " Jennifer leaned forward and kissed her.

Almost on cue Jack showed up, on his way up to the apartment he had seen her. He stopped and exhailed, it may be a cliché, but Jennifer always took his breath away. He put down his luggage and walked over towards the table.

Jennifer saw him and ran over to him, throwing herself on him, nearly knocking him over. "Down girl." Jennifer did not pay any attention and held him even more tightly, kissing him.

"Heel. Sit!"

"Jack you're back. Oh I missed you so much," she squeezed him again.

Jack had to bend down to kiss her, "Hmm, you've shrunk. So, what's this, your mid-section expands and to compensate you get shorter?"

"No.... well, the medical books suggest that pregnant women wear flat shoes. I can't help it if I have a tall husband. But, do you think I'm fat?

"No.... no.... Of course not. You just look.... what's the word, pregnant.

Jennifer grabbed him by his wrist and led him to her table. "Jack, did you—" Jack's mood changed, and Jennifer could tell that he had not found Harper's money. "Oh, Jack,"she kissed him and caressed his cheek, "I'm so sorry for you. I know how much it meant to you."

Jack looked at her, surprised, "Sorry for me, why?

"Jack the money never meant anything to me. All that matters for me is your happiness," she sat on his lap and kissed him again, not mine! I love you so much Jack Deveraux. You and our child are the most important things in my life.

Jennifer listened as Jack told her about his trials trying to find the money. Just then Julie showed up, as flamboyant as ever. She hugged Alice and sat down with Jack and Jennifer.

"Where's Doug," Alice inquired.

"Oh, he's stayed in Switzerland—"

"Julie, I'm so sorry, Jennifer and Alice said simultaneously.

"Oh, that's okay. We had a great time these past few days. And who knows," she said as she and Jack exchanged glances, "stranger things have been known to happen. Grandma, I need to get you to get the family together, tomorrow night, Wings. No questions now. Make sure you, Granddad, Uncle Mickey and Maggie are there, of course you and Jack will be there too, right Jack, Jennifer? Anyway, gotta run. I've been away far too long. Kiss kiss." And with that she left.

A short while later, Jennifer and Jack were in their apartment. She had just finished telling him about the trial and her interview. "Anyway, it's a shame that Lawrence is running around town, and she's on trial for first degree murder—"

"Though I cannot argue about Mr. Alamain, Ms. Bartlett is another matter, she is getting what she deserves. But with her high priced legal team, and the bleeding heart public, which is easily duped by crocodile tears, she will probably get off to enjoy the fruits of her dastardly deed."

"Jack, she had to go through years of hell inflicted upon her by that sick bastard — her own father—"

"Puleeze Jennifer, abuse my.... she did it out of greed pure and simple. You still view the world with those rose colored glasses, don't you — though your naiveté is one of your many faults that I find so appealing—

"Faults Jack? Me, I don't have any faults. You are probably mistaking me for you. As usual you are wrong, because you, my dear husband, are the one with all those endearing character flaws. —

"Let's see, Mrs. Deveraux, you're pighead, stubborn, argumentative, niave, idealistic.... stubborn, you don't know Latin, and mispronounce words, and are a poor speller—"

"Right Jack, this from a man who can't spell `perfect,' but then I guess you can't spell something you aren't; unlike your beautiful wife. And you are wrong about Christianna she is a victim. And unlike somebody I know, I don't believe that the world is motivated solely by lust for money—"

"Anyway, my p-e-r-f-e-c-t wife. See I can spell it. Let us table this discussion until later. "

Jennifer interrupted him, "You're just saying that because you know I'm winning — as usual," she grinned.

Jack pretended to ignore her, we are not in concordance concerning Ms. Bartlett's culpability, but let us agree that that will be our topic our first Crossfire segment. I mean if we fight now then we won't have anything to argue about on air. We will be spending the whole time staring at each other. Not the ratings grabber that Dan the Man wants. Agreement?"

Jennifer took Jack's extended hand and shook it, "agreement." Jennifer smile maybe her grandmother was right, this 12 the most comfortable that they had been in a long time.

"Wait.... wait, I almost forgot" Jack ran out of the room. He returned, holding something behind his back. "Close your eyes. And keep them closed. Okay, hold out your hands." He placed a small, wrapped box in her hands.

"Jack, what is it."

"Open it and find out."

"Jennifer tore off the wrapping paper, and opened the box. "What is this?" Inside she found a Swiss army knife.

"And it's not just any knife. It's the Rolls Royce of Swiss army knives, it has a zillion — or maybe twenty — features. I figured, ship wrecks, cave-ins, ledges, train wrecks.... If I'm going to stick around you, and your luck, well, maybe we should be prepared for next our wacky adventure. Do you like it? Sorry that it isn't a diamond encrusted Swiss time-piece, or even coocoo clock—"

Jennifer throw her arms around him, "No Jack, there's nothing in the world that I would rather have."
Yes, maybe things were changing for the better.

(July 19, 2000)

CHAPTER TWO: JACK AND JENNIFER'S APARTMENT.

Jack had been watching TV for at least 30 minutes while he waited for Jennifer to get dressed. He could hear the closet door opening and closing and all sorts of noises coming from the bedroom.
"Jennifer, how long are you going to be? We're late now and I need a drink."

Jennifer came out of the bedroom holding two dresses on hangers. "Which one? Which one do you think makes me look thinner Jack?"

He glanced quickly at the two dresses then made an off-handed remark as the TV got his attention again.

"Aaah, the white one."

"But white always makes people look bigger and I'm so fat Jack."

He looked back at her and smiled. "I have told you many times. You are not fat. You are pregnant. Pregnant women are attractive. Wear the white lace that Julie bought you. It's romantic. I like romantic."

Jennifer smiled. "You know you always make me feel better. You have that knack Jack." She walked back into the bedroom as Jack replied.

"Hey, of course I've got the knack. I'm Jack!"

Minutes later she emerged in the white lace dress with her hair brushed and golden. Jack could smell her hair as she took his arm. He had always loved her hair and the way it felt in his fingers. He lifted his hand to touch it and then pulled back. It seemed so intimate and he wasn't ready to let himself go that much....at least not yet. He knew that he and Jennifer still had a way to go to recapture that. Jennifer sensed what Jack was thinking and hurried out the door. When would he relax and just let himself love me, she thought.

Fifteen minutes later they pulled into the main entrance of Wings. The valet took the car and they walked inside arm in arm. Jennifer's eyes widened as she saw the magnificent decor. Wings had been transformed into a lush Italian resort and the wide doors that overlooked the lake at the rear of the dining room were open and the afternoon sun glistened on the crystal flutes arranged on the tables outside.

"Oh Jack, this so beautiful. Now I know why Julie wanted this to be an afternoon event but I still can't figure out why she's making such a big deal of her return after only ten days away."

"Well I guess we'll find out soon enough," said Jack as Julie came over to them.

"Oh there you are darling boy. I do love your husband you know Jennifer." She kissed Jack on the cheek and he gave her a sheepish grin. Jennifer held tightly onto his arm.

"Well he's mine Julie and I'm not giving him up. Well not yet."

Jack's face turned to smug as he listened to two women argue over him. Both Julie and Jennifer noticed and gave him a look. "Get that look of your face Jack Deveraux," said Jennifer. "We are only joking, aren't we Julie?"

Julie shook her head and laughed. "Well... partly joking. Now come on you two, outside. Most of the guests are here already and I have an announcement. A big announcement." She glanced at Jack and then looked away. Jennifer leaned up and whispered, "What was the look for Jack?"

Jack rolled his eyes and shrugged his shoulders. "I have no idea."

They joined the other guests who turned out to be half of Salem, not just family. There was a large buffet along one side of the terrace and waiters were handing out glasses of the finest French champagne. When everybody had a glass, Julie took her place in front of the French doors.

"Ladies and gentlemen, I'm so glad that you all found the time to come today. I'm know the gods are happy because the weather is so divine. Now if you will just wait one minute, I will return with a very important announcement."

She walked back inside and disappeared as the guest began to murmur and speculate about what was going on. Jennifer was her usual nosey self and was pestering Jack along with Alice and Maggie. They all knew that Jack was in Switzerland with Julie and that this announcement must have something to do with trip, coming so soon after her return. Jack just kept shrugging his shoulders and shaking his head, denying any knowledge of Julie's big secret.

Almost five minutes later, Julie reappeared and the crowd instantly became silent.

"Ladies and gentlemen, friends, family. May I present my husband, Doug Williams."

Doug stepped out beside Julie and kissed her cheek. The guests let our a unified sigh of surprise and delight and Alice could be heard above them all. "Julie, how dare you keep Doug a secret from your family. Oh I am so happy."

"Thanks Alice," said Doug, "but we wanted everyone here together when we told you. It just seemed to be the perfect thing to do. Of course keeping me a secret in Salem as well as keeping our marriage a secret has been difficult and frankly it couldn't have happened without the help of one very dear friend. Somebody I haven't known long but one for whom Julie has great admiration."

Doug extended his arm towards Jack. "Jack, on behalf of my wife and myself I would like to thank you publicly for your help with the ceremony in Switzerland as well as helping us arrange this today. Words cannot express our gratitude."

Everyone turned to Jack. His face reddened slightly as he nodded at Doug and Julie. "It was nothing, really.... nothing. A piece of cake.... speaking of which?"

The guests laughed and began to crowd around the happy couple as well as come over and shake Jack's hand. He was the toast of the town. Jennifer was still standing there with her mouth open, waiting for a chance to drag him aside and get all the details. He kept glancing over at her and grinning as she frowned back. She was so in love with him for doing this but at the same time was irritated that he could keep something this big from her.

After everyone had settled down, Jack stepped up next to Doug and Julie. "Ladies and gentlemen, Dr. Horton, Mrs. Horton, my darling wife, etc., etc., I think it's time we all raised our glasses to Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Williams. To Julie and Doug."

They all sipped on the champagne and then Jack continued. "Now if you will all clear a little space we have some special music to play while our newlyweds begin their first dance." He nodded to Dave who pressed Play on the tape recorder. Doug's voice began to drift across the lake as the sun set. He was singing The Most Beautiful Girl in the World, a song that he always kept for his Julie. Julie's eyes filled up as Doug swept her into his arms and they began to drift around the terrace."
Jennifer stood alone looking at them and wishing that she and Jack could get back to that place in their lives. That place of perfect love and understanding.

(July 30, 2000)

CHAPTER THREE: TERRACE OF WINGS;
CONTINUED FROM CHAPTER TWO.

Jennifer stood staring at the reflection of the moon rippling over the water.

"I'd offer a penny for your thoughts," Jack drawled. "But inflation being what it is the market value of thoughts has probably risen to a buck fifty."

She turned to see her husband leaning against the door jamb.

"Only a dollar fifty?" she asked with a smile.

"Well, the going fare for your thoughts is probably substantially higher and therefore too rich for my blood these days."

Her smile faded. "They can be yours for free."

He shook his head ruefully as he shoved his hands into his pockets and crossed the terrace. "I left myself open for that."

"For what?"

"For 'the discussion.'" At her questioning glance he clarified, "The 'relationship' discussion." He leaned back against the balustrade and crossed his ankles in a deliberately casual pose despite the fact he wasn't being casual at all. "You know there was once a time when I was naive — don't laugh. I was once naive — Anyway, I was once naive enough to believe that if I ever got married — and stayed that way — that I would be relieved of ever having the dreaded 'relationship discussion' again. It's one of the primary incentives for commitment."

"Is talking about our relationship such a bad thing?"

"Don't misunderstand me, the relationship isn't bad. It's good." He tenderly traced the curve of her cheek with his fingertip and said softly, "It's the best thing that ever happened to me. Talking about it on the other hand...." His voice trailed off and he joined her in staring at the water.

"I know talking about your feelings is tough for you, Jack. But...." she sighed. "Not everything can be implied, not everything can be said in metaphor. Some things have to be faced head on."

"I love you," he said bluntly.

Jennifer smiled gently as she watched his face in the blue-white moonlight. "I wasn't fishing for a declaration of love. Though I do appreciate it." She took his hand and gripped it as together they watched lights dance across dark waters. "I love you too," she confessed. "You know I do. You know I always will."

"So what's the problem?" he asked, then repeated sotto voce, "What is the problem?"

"Are you asking me or yourself?"

He stood silently for a very long time and Jennifer began to doubt that he was ever going to answer. She looked over her shoulder and saw that though the party was breaking up Doug and Julie were still locked in each other's arms swaying to Frank Sinatra singing Fly Me to the Moon. Happiness seemed to emanate from them and she envied their contentment.

"Back when I was married to Kayla...."

Jennifer turned her stunned gaze toward Jack. She was almost shocked that Jack was speaking, but what he was talking about simply blew her away. "When you were married to Kayla.... what?" she prompted.

His shadowed blue gaze darted toward her then back at the dark waters beyond the terrace. "I knew she was in love with Steve. I didn't admit it to anyone. I especially didn't admit it to myself, but I knew. I knew it and I knew that the right thing to do would be to let her go. Divorce her. Set her free."

Jennifer's hands gripped the balustrade. What was he saying? What was he meaning? Fear sliced through her.

A dark smile curved his mouth. "You know as well as I do, Jennifer, that I'm not good at doing the 'right' thing."

"That was a long time ago," she said in quiet desperation.

"Not that long ago. I haven't changed all that much."

"Jack...."

He faced her. "I know what the right thing to do is, but I've been resisting it every step of the way."

"Jack, please, don't say anything rash."

"I've got a wife I love and who for reasons I can't always understand she seems to love me as well. And together we have created a life. My God, that's stunning. That's unbelievable. You and me, the bickerson twins, the immature brats—"

"I'm not a brat, thank you very much."

"—who climb out on ledges and get trapped in caves and snow storms, and run the gamut of disaster movies from ship wrecks to train wrecks to earthquakes have created a brand spanking new life that will depend on us. Will need us. Will look to us for guidance. Doesn't that frighten you?"

"It scares me to death sometimes," she reluctantly admitted.

"Well, I don't have to tell you is scares me. I've made that clear enough."

She turned anxiously to face him, "But, Jack, that doesn't mean we can't handle it. Look at everything we've gotten through. Look at everything we've overcome. You and me? We can do anything together."

He caught her hand and rubbed his thumb against her wedding ring. "Having a child isn't something you 'get through' or 'overcome.' And it won't be just the two of us anymore."

"The three of us then." She pulled his hand and placed it on her stomach. "Sometimes I think you forget this baby is part of you and me. He'll probably have your blind stubbornness and determination."

Jack laughed. "Me? Ms. Kettle, who are you calling black?"

"Wouldn't hurt if he had you're height as well."

"She should have your eyes, and cute little nose."

"Actually, I prefer your nose. Very aristocratic."

He touched her lips. "And she should have your mouth."

"And your hands."

"Her mother's bravery."

"And his father's perseverance."

"Jennifer, I'm the master of running away, or have—"

She pressed her fingertips against his lips. "You've picked up the pieces of more devastating messes than anyone I know — most of which weren't of your own making — and somehow you made it through. That's courage, Jack. Real courage."

He moved closer. "As long as she has your compassion and integrity."

She moved into his arms. "And your fierce loyalty."

The music changed. No longer Sinatra but something more contemporary. Lyrics drifted softly around them, "It's taken much too long to get it right. Would it be so wrong, to find someone a miracle."*

Jack's hand slid slowly up Jennifer's back, and she laid her cheek against his shoulder. "He'll be perfect," she said.

"She'll be an angel.... just like her mother."

Jennifer looked up and framed Jack's face between her hands. "We can do this, Jack. We've come this far. We can do this."

With his hands at her waist he led her to sway with music that said, "You never really know what it is. Not until it goes. And if it comes again, it's a miracle."

"Contra Mundum, Jack."

He buried his face in her golden hair listening to the music. "All you ever wanted was a miracle. All you ever needed was a miracle. A miracle. It's taken so long to get it right. Could it be so wrong to maybe find someone a miracle?"

He held Jennifer tighter. "I know you want me to be happy about this baby. I know you want me to believe that we'll find that rose colored happy ever after you've always dreamed of."

Jennifer stiffened in fear of what Jack might say and shivered as he pulled away.

"I can't promise you a perfect future or a life tinted with rose colored glasses." He brushed her hair back and murmured, "Jennifer Rose..... I think I know what the right thing is."

She held her breath, feeling as though she stood at the edge of a great precipice.

"It's taken me a long time to understand this," he told her. "But I'm learning." He gave a rueful smile. "I am learning, and despite the fact that I'm an impatient man — you know I'm an impatient man — one thing I've learned is that given time, things work out right."

He drew her back into his arms and pressed her cheek against his shoulder. She felt his lips touch her temple and found she could breath again. She clung to him and immersed herself in the warmth and strength of his embrace.

"If we're patient, everything will work itself out," he told her.

"Absolutely." She murmured, loving this man with every fiber of her being. She rested in his arms and let hope wash over her. Everything would be all right.

And they swayed in the moonlit darkness as the song trailed off. "It's taken so long to get it right. Could it be so wrong to find someone a miracle...."

*Song: "Miracle" by Vertical Horizon

(August 1, 2000)

CHAPTER FOUR: JACK AND JENNIFER'S APARTMENT.

It was the morning of Isabella and John's wedding. Jennifer, dressed casually (she, Carly, and Isabella were going to dress at the church) was sitting on the couch reading for the fifth time Jack's recent article on John Black/Forrest Alamain. Jennifer could not put her finger on it, but there was something strange about the article. She had been present when Jack interviewed John, but somehow there was more within the article than transpired during the interview. Okay Jack what gives, she thought to herself; she was determined to find out. Just then she could hear Jack opening and closing drawers and cursing loudly. Jennifer sighed and went to the bedroom.
The bedroom was a mess, things were strewn all over the floor and bed. Jack, dressed only in his pants, was frantically searching for something. Jennifer sat on the bed and watched Jack in amusement. Jack, turned towards her. Jennifer unsuccessfully tried to suppress a chuckle. "What do you find so amusing?" he asked

"Oh, nothing.... nothing. So, What's the problem?'

"You're not very observant for a journalist, are you. If you notice I am sans chemise"

Jennifer shook her head and left the room. She returned a few seconds later, carrying Jack's shirt. Clearing her throat, "Hmm, Jack is this what you're looking for?"

Jack snatched the shirt, "Yes, where was it?"

"If you remember, I told you last night that I was hanging it , along with my dress, in the bathroom behind the door to keep them from wrinkling."

After putting on the shirt, Jack mumbled to himself, "Oh, to be a bachelor again."

"What was that Jack?"

"I said, `Oh, to be a bachelor again.' Back then I could always find what I was looking for." Jack picked up a couple of Jennifer's undergarments and waved them to her, "My drawers were my own. They were not infiltrated with garments belonging to the female of the species." Jack flashed her a smug grin, and proceeded to insert the studs into his shirt's button holes.

Jennifer put her arms around Jack's bare waist. "True, but marriage does have its benefits." With the other hand Jennifer began to seductively help him with his studs. "Now, you have someone to help dress.... and undress."

"That was what Sheldon was for, he was most efficient — or proficient.... or efficient." Jack replied, with a hint of playfulness.

Jennifer pushed him down on the bed and got on top of him. "Maybe, but...." she playfully kissed his upper lip , "what about that; and this," she then kissed his lower lip. "And this," this time she kissed him hard and passionately. " I think there are benefits, don't you? I don't think Sheldon was proficient in everything."

"Well, actually...." Jack flashed her one of his patented grins. Jennifer rolled her eyes, and gently slugged him. "Ouch!" Jack cried out in mock pain.

A short while later, Jack and Jennifer drove up to Salem's Immaculate Conception Cathedral. Jack looked extremely attractive, wearing a classic tux, a fine linen dress shirt with black onyx studs, and the gold and ruby cuff links that Jennifer had given Jack for Christmas. They could see Carly and Lawrence talking on the steps of the cathedral. Concerned, Jack looked towards Jennifer and took her hand. Jennifer smiled at him, "I'm okay. But can we wait until he leaves?"

"Sure.... sure.... of course. " Jack watched intently. Just then Carly and Lawrence noticed them. Carly motioned angrily with her hand and Lawrence left.

Jack helped Jennifer carry her dress and bag with make-up. Before Jack had a chance to object, Jennifer stopped to talk to Carly. "Carly, what was he doing here?"

"He dropped by spouting how he wanted to be there for his brother on his wedding day. You know Lawrence, always making trouble. I tried to get rid of him before he ran into John or Isabella and ruined their special day."

Jack listened suspiciously, nodded, and flashed Carly a rather fake smile. There was more to their meeting than that, Jack thought.

"So, are Isabella and John here?" Jennifer asked.

"Yeah, John's with Bo. And Isabella's in the changing room with Victor." Carly explained that Victor had given Isabella her mother's pearls. "Anyway," she continued, "I thought it best if I left them alone for a while."

"Victor's changed his mind about John and Isabella?" Jack asked rhetorically. " I gather the shocking revelation that John is in actuality Forest Alamain, the first born son of Leopold Alamain, and hence the rightful heir to the vast Alamain fortune had something to do with his sudden change of heart." Jack was not sure, but was there a flash in Carly's eye when he mentioned the Alamain fortune.

"Don't mind my husband, Carly; he's just an eternal cynic." Jennifer looked up lovingly at him, and then grabbed him by his wrist, "Come on Jack."

Carly, lead Jack and Jennifer to changing room; just then Victor emerged. Victor stopped and stared at Jack, "Jack, when will you ever learn. Harper couldn't get the better of me, and you're not in his league. Do you really believe that you could go to Switzerland and look into my private files, much less steal my money."

"`Steal' That's a matter of perspective, Victor—"

Isabella placed her hand on Victor's arm and looked up at him, "Victor, please, not today. Jack's my friend."

Victor could not resist his daughter. It made him ache how much she resembled Loretta — especially at that moment. "I'll be back," he said as he kissed her cheek. Then speaking to the others, "Jennifer, Carly.... Jack" he said, flashing Jack a self-satisfied smirk.

"I'm sorry Jack." Isabella said after Victor had left.

"It's okay.... Umm, but would it be okay to put these things down, they're getting a little heavy? Isabella laughed and escorted Jack into the room. As he followed her he continued, "Really, I cannot see why you females need to do things in packs all the time. Going to the restroom, getting dressed. We males are perfectly happy doing those things by ourselves; you don't see John, Bo, and I dressing each other."

Entering the room, Jennifer gasped when she saw Isabella's wedding gown, "Oh my god, that's lovely." Jack quickly placed his hands over his eyes. "Jack, what are you doing?" Jennifer asked.

"You know.... it's bad luck to see the wedding dress before the wedding," Jack replied.

"Jack, it's bad luck for the groom not the best man. Jennifer, Carly, and Isabella laughed.

The four of them talked for a while; then Isabella asked, "Jennifer, would it be okay, if I borrow the best man for a minute?" Isabella asked.

Jack flashed a self-satisfied smile. "Sure, you can have him," Jennifer replied as she grinned at Jack. Jack could not take his eyes off Jennifer as she walked out of the room.

"So, what do you want, marital advice; changed your mind and need a fire engine,"

Isabella laughed and then smiled broadly. Jack looked at her, "What?"

"Life has sure changed for us, hasn't it? I remember how different things were for us just a little over two years ago. I was stuck in Bayview and you were trying to deal with your past. Life wasn't very happy for either of us, was it?"

Jack looked away sadly.

"But, look at us now, you and Jennifer are married and have a baby on the way; and John and I are about to get married and have a baby on the way. Things are looking wonderful for both you and I. And things are only going to get better and better, I know they are — for all of us."

Jack smiled, "If the gods are willing."

Isabella took Jack's hand. "They will, I know they will. You know, you were my first friend in Salem and my best. And you continue to be — after John, of course.

Emotionally, "Well, the feeling is mutual — after Jennifer of course."

"I was locked away in Bayview. I had no one, Marina had abandoned me. Then one day Jack Deveraux entered my life. You promised me then that you would always be my friend and would be there for me, and you have been. You made my days brighter. Remember the music you brought me, the flowers. Then there was The Great Bayview Escape; as long as I live I'll never forget that. At the time I had the biggest crush on you, Jack Deveraux." Jack blushed. "However, you were all ready head-over-heels in love with Jennifer. She was all you spoke and thought about. But you were too unsure of yourself and your past to admit your feelings. Thanks to you, I met John. And I too found real love. But my past, the fact that I killed Marina, got in the way of my happiness. You continued to help me with the diary, trying to protect me with the information about Victor and Ernesto; and even after you discovered I killed Marina, you stuck by me, and you helped me to get past that and to trust in John."

"You're not alone in the need to give thanks department. Remember, for the vast majority of Salem I was a pariah, You were about the only person who even wanted me around. You, and that pigheaded cub reporter," Jack smiled thinking of his wife. "And I have to thank you and John for agreeing to the exclusive interview, considering how difficult the whole business must be for the two of you — I know from personal experience. I really appreciate it. Thanks to the interview sales have gone up and have kept the proverbial wolves from the door — at least temporarily."

"I'm so sorry about Victor and your adoted-father's money. Is there anything I can do?"

"No, no, everything's fine. Really. I have been able to gradually pay off the loan. And the bank is relatively pleased with The Spectator's circulation the past month. So, for now I will be able to keep the paper. If things continue as is, things should be fine. The next critical date is in September 30th, but I remain optimistic — and for me to be optimistic, well.... So, really, it is I who owes you — and John."

"Jack, come on, the interview was good for us, it was cleansing. And John told me everything about Lucerne, that brought us closer. And Jack you wrote such compassionate and not some tabloid piece; unlike the other papers in town. Jack you are a wonderful reporter. Anway, the least the both of us could do was give you the exclusive to his story."

"But Jo.... John was not su.... su.... supposed to—"

"Yes, Jack, he told me. And I'm glad he did. But I don't know why you have to keep it a secret from everyone, especially your wife. And yes, if it wasn't for you I might not be getting married today. It brought us so much closer. You brought John and me back together—"

Isabella was interrupted by Jennifer who entered unannounced. She looked at Isabella and then at Jack. Jennifer had been suspicious that something was going on between Jack, and John and Isabella. "Okay, what gives you two?"

Jack and Isabella looked nervously at one another. "I swear it's not what you think, really —"

"Oh, come on Jack, I know that. That's not what I meant. What was that little discussion you were having, and so mysteriously stopped when I entered the room. And don't pull that innocent act on me Jack Harcourt Deveraux, I know you."

Isabella butted in, "It's just I was thanking Jack, if it wasn't for him I'd never have escaped from Bayview and then never have met and fallen in love with John. Jack introduced me to John and so.... and well if it wasn't for Jack then John and I wouldn't be getting married today."

Just then Carly entered, "Come on ladies it's time to get ready.

Jack and Isabella sighed in relief. "Well, that's my cue. I'll see you lovely ladies in a few moments," Jack gave a slight salute and a gallant bow, and left. "Oh, one more thing, Jennifer, remember, do not trip coming down the aisle, you'll embarrass me."

A short while later, the first several rows of the large cathedral were filled with John and Isabella's family and friends — the Bradys and Max, Kayla, Alice and Tom, Mickey and Maggie, Julie and Doug, Abe and Lexie, Marcus with Desir�e, and Carrie; and some others. John stood nervously at the altar to the right of the priest, next to him stood Jack, and then Bo. All three men were wearing classic tuxes, with a single white rose boutonniere. John leaned over to Jack, "Thanks again for getting me to get my priorities straight." Before Jack could reply the music began.

Bo smiled as Carly slowly marched up the alter. She was wearing a deep apricot chiffon gown; with a wide neck line; tight sleeves with wide strips of lace around the top of the arm; a fitted bodice with a tiny waist of floaty fabric that reached the floor; and she was carrying a small bouquet of spring flowers. After a brief pause, Jennifer slowly made her way down the aisle, wearing a similar gown, that just bearly hinted at her early stages of her pregnancy, she was carrying a slightly larger bouquet of flowers. Jack watched her with great pride and love. He motioned mischievously with his eyes; and Jennifer tried to refrain from smiling. Jack raised his eyebrows and slightly rolled his eyes, and mouthed the word "Don't trip!" Jennifer good naturedly gave him an ever slight glare, but could not help smiling.

The Wedding March began, and everybody rose. Victor, looking very dignified in his tux, walked Isabella down the aisle. Sadly he wished that Loretta could have been present to see their beautiful daughter. Isabella beamed, keeping her eyes locked on John. Her gown was off-white with a pale apricot tinge; it was very frilly, with lace around the collar; it had a great deal of lace around the bodice, which along with her large bouquet helped to conceal her pregnancy. After the signal from the priest Victor stepped back, and John and Isabella took each other's hand. Jack and Jennifer gazed at each other, each recalling to mind their wedding day.

An hour later, the long service finally ended and the priest introduced the happy couple. First Isabella and John proceeded down the aisle; then Bo and Carly. And then, Jack and Jennifer, arm-in-arm, and deeply in love. To Jack there was no one more lovely than her; and for Jennifer, Jack was the handsomest man there.

(August 3, 2000)

CHAPTER FIVE: KIRIAKIS GARDENS;
ISABELLA AND JOHN'S RECEPTION.

"Here, darling," Julie offered Jennifer a fluted glass.

Jennifer shook her head. "I'm pregnant, remember?"

Julie smiled. "It's sparkling cider."

"Oh. Well then. Indulge me." As Jennifer sipped the cider she looked around her at the elegant flower arrangements, a perfectly amazing wedding cake, and a seemingly endless supply of champagne.

"For a disapproving father, Victor spared no expense," Julie murmured. "You would think his daughter married Brad Pitt with this kind of production."

Jennifer laughed. "And I hear there's supposed to be fireworks once it's dark— the real kind not just the honeymoon kind."

Julie lifted her glass. "Well here is to Victor for accepting his unwanted son-in-law in style." Then under her breath she added, "And here is to your husband who made all of this possible."

Jennifer's glass stopped half way to her mouth. "What?"

"You didn't know?"

"Know what?"

"Ah, Jennifer Rose, a little bird told me about a good deed our favorite knight errant performed while in Europe."

Jennifer blinked then her eyes sought out Jack who was standing several yards away talking to Isabella. "He went to Switzerland to tell John to come home didn't he?" she suddenly realized. It made so much sense. It was.... it was just like Jack.

"You didn't hear it from me," Julie said and Jennifer laughed.

"Actually I didn't hear it from you." She set her glass on one of the tables then took Julie's glass from her hand and also placed it on the table. "Why don't we seek out our wonderful husbands?"

"Why, Cousin, what a perfectly wonderful idea."

It took only moments for Jennifer and Julie to catch up to Doug. Jennifer kissed him on the cheek and Julie moved to his side. They agreed it was a beautiful spring day then Jennifer left them to seek out Jack. By the time she made it to Isabella's side, Jack was no where in sight.

"Don't look at me," Isabella said.

"Actually you're the bride. I'm supposed to look at you."

"But you're really looking for your husband."

"Okay, you've got me. I'm looking for Jack. And I bet you wish all of the guests would disappear so that you can be with your husband."

"Husband. Mmmmm.... I like the sound of that word." Isabella patted her tummy. "And I'm glad that I can say that before this one arrives. Appearances aside, I'm just an old fashioned girl."

"That makes two of us. Maybe if we stick together we can start a trend."

"You've got a deal. The two of us and someday soon our little ones."

The two women hugged and Jennifer said softly, "I'm so happy you've gotten your happy ending."

"Ending? What ending? John and I have decided this is a brand new beginning. Just the two of us and our little family. We got the inspiration from you and Jack."

"Speaking of which?"

"He went that way," Isabella directed her down a path in the garden.

The roses were beginning to bloom. Light pink, lavender, and peach colored blooms stood about white dianthus and purple pincushion flowers. She saw Jack at the end of the path beneath cherry trees which were just beginning to shed their blossoms.

"What are you doing out here all by yourself?" She asked as she approached him from behind.

"Hiding from the chaos."

Jennifer looked up as cherry blossoms fell into her hair and onto her shoulders. "Nice spot to hide."

"If you don't mind a tree raining on you."

She cocked her head to the side and asked. "Exactly why are you hiding?"

"Oh you know, romance isn't exactly my style."

"It isn't?"

"You should know."

She moved closer to him and he set his hands on her hips. "Are you sure romance isn't your thing?"

"You mean you've never noticed?"

Jennifer leaned up and placed her lips against the pulse in his throat and was perfectly delighted when she felt that pulse jump. "Oh yes, I've noticed." She leaned back and cupped her hand against his cheek. "I noticed the man who flew to Europe to bring his brother home to marry someone he used to love. I noticed a man who rented a fire truck to drag me kicking and screaming out of a church to keep me from making a huge mistake—"

Jack placed his hand over her mouth. "Don't go getting all mushy about those things. I had some rather selfish reasons for doing those—"

Jennifer placed her hand over Jack's mouth and smiled against his hand until he finally lowered it. "You did it because of love. Behind hind that jaded exterior beats the heart—"

"If you say a romantic I'm going to borrow a phrase from Carrie Brady and say I'm going to hurl."

She ignored his protest. "Beats the heart of a grade 'A' marshmallow."

"You mean like that Pillsbury Dough Boy in the final scenes of Ghostbusters?

"I mean like this completely amazing man that I married who went to Europe to talk some sense into someone and send him home to a waiting bride."

"Well that was a long time ago—"

"I'm not talking about Steve and Kayla."

He arched a brow. "You're not?"

"You did a wonderful thing, Jack. For the life of me I'm not sure why you feel the need to hide it. Why you refuse to let people see what kind of person you really are." She grinned. "But I have news for you, the word is slowly leaking out. You can't hide it forever." She walked her fingers up the front of his tux. "And the truth is I'm not as thrilled as I thought I would be if everyone finally saw what kind of man you really are?"

He looked at her curiously. "And why is that?"

"Because that part of you used to belong almost solely to me. Everyone saw one side of you and I saw the other. " She grinned. "It's made me very possessive."

"So I'm possessed now? Can't say I haven't—"

Again her hand came across his mouth. "Jack?"

"Mmmphf?" he responded through her hand.

"Shut up and let me love you."

She lowered her hand.
"Well, if you insist," he murmured just before his mouth claimed hers.

(August 5, 2000)

CHAPTER SIX: THE SPECTATOR.

As Jennifer's car came to a stop, she slumped back in the seat. It was 6 PM and she was finished for the day and to make things even better, it was Friday night and she wasn't due back at the studio until Monday. She'd been so tired lately, exhausted really, but she knew that they needed the money and she had to keep her career going until Jack got the paper back on its feet.

She closed her eyes and thought back on Doug and Julie's surprise wedding reception. It was all so romantic. Perfect. Even Jack seemed to feel the moment and managed to open up somewhat. If only he'd tell her exactly how he feels instead of staying clammed up. He hated it when she stonewalled him but that's exactly what he was doing to her. Then there was John and Isabella's wedding and once again he'd almost told her how he felt. She sighed. Jack was Jack. In time he'd come round. He always did. It's just that she wanted it now. She grabbed her bag and headed to the elevator. Jack had asked her to meet him at the paper and she secretly hoped that he was going to take her out to dinner but she also knew that they really couldn't afford it.

A few familiar faces down in Circulation smiled at her as she walked past. Gosh, she missed working here. It had been the best time of her life. Why couldn't things be that simple again? Work she loved, seeing Jack every day. But times must change and she was too tired to think anymore. As she approached Jack's door, it swung open and Jack stuck his head out.

"MISS HORTON, GET IN HERE."

Jennifer looked up in surprise. "Jack, what are you doing?"

"Waiting for you. You're late! I told you 5:30. What took you so long?" Jack demanded.

"Huh, I was working I never knew 30 minutes would mean so much to you. What are you up to Jack? And don't tell me nothing because I know you."

"Moi? Jennifer what would ever give you the idea I was up to something. Please just come inside."

Somewhat reluctantly Jennifer walked through the door. The light was off and she turned to Jack.

"Jack turn the light on. I can't see."

Jack walked up behind her and put his hands on her shoulders. "I thought you liked it when the lights were off."

"No Jack, that's you. I like the lights on."

"Well I remember a time when you preferred to work in the dark and I thought maybe you needed reminding. Come, follow me."

Jack walked around the desk and sat down. He picked up his writing pad and pen and beckoned Jennifer to come over next to him. "Please Miss Horton, I need your expertise. This article is one of those human interest things and you are definitely the best at bleeding heart stuff."

"Jack what is this all about?"

"It seems you have a very short memory.... Miss Horton. Miss Horton, get it? No it seems not. You see it's like this. Lately you've been very down in the dumps, morose even, one could even say dark, contemplative, moody, tearful, dejected, melancholy, gloomy, forlorn—"

Jennifer interrupted. "I get the idea Jack. I think it's called pregnant. And anyway, I'm not always like that. I had a lovely time at Julie and Doug's and then at Isabella's wedding."

"Well yes, one could say that this less than jovial mood isn't present twenty-four hours a day but it still seems to be the dominating feature of your personality lately."

"What are you talking about Jack? I'm tired, I just want to go home."

"Please, forgive. I'm leading up to something. In.... in your up times, shall we say, you seem intent on romance and the various definitions thereof. So I thought it was time for you to relive those various definitions, as they refer to us — the turmoil twins, I think is what we were once called, by someone whose name shall remain unmentioned and unmentionable. Now if you please, I need help with this story."

Jennifer screwed up her brow. "Jack I have no idea what you are talking about."

"Let me begin with definition numero uno. For some reason unknown to anyone else on this planet, you actually enjoyed working with me in the dark in this office. I am still wondering what made it so attractive but if it makes you happy, then here we go again."

Jennifer screwed up her brow and walked around to stand behind him. "You think you know me pretty well, don't you, Mr. Deveraux? Perhaps it was the company and not the lighting," she whispered.

"I think you mean the lack of lighting.... Miss Horton," Jack whispered back.

"No it was the company. It was perfect. That's P-E-R-F...."

"E-C-T. I can spell Miss Horton." Jack grinned up at her as she leaned over his shoulder. "I also have an exceptional memory to go along with my other extraordinary talents."

"You have extraordinary talents? I'd be very interested to know what they are." Jennifer was still whispering.

"Oh ye of little faith. Apart from my memory, I have a unique way with words. By the way why in the hell are we whispering?"

"Because it's dark and it's quiet and it's romantic."

Jack nodded. "Yeah I guess it is. And speaking of which, it's time to turn on the lights."

"No Jack, please. Let's leave them off. It's nice to be here alone with you. I'm just starting to relax and enjoy myself."

"But you see the best is yet to come. You can start speaking in a normal volume now." Jack walked over and turned on the light revealing a row of Chinese take-out food containers. "Before you say a word, I have first tabs on the Pot Stickers."

Jennifer was grinning for ear to ear. "You remembered. I used to love staying back and having Chinese with you, Jack."

"How could I forget. For a while there I forgot what good American cuisine tasted like."

"And you loved every minute of it. Admit it, Jack."

"I.... I plead the Fifth."

Jennifer shook her head in frustration. Jack could never just say what he felt.

Noticing her slight change of mood, Jack put his arm around her. "Is there a problem with all this Miss Horton?"

"No Jack. It's just that you can never say what you feel. Even about Chinese food."

Jack looked sad. "I try Jennifer, I really do try. I do love you, you know. More than ever now that we are having a baby."

"Did you say we Jack? That we are having a baby."

Jack lowered his head. "I know how hard this has been on you Jennifer. I really do. But I was shocked, stunned, totally out of my head when you told me that you were pregnant. It was the last thing on my mind and the last thing that I thought I could cope with. I'd just lost control of my life because of Hawk and suddenly I was confronted with another thing far bigger. I wasn't ready for the responsibility. I needed time to adjust."

"All I ever wanted was for you to tell me that Jack. You know it's always easier if you say the words."

"For you maybe. But the spoken word is the hardest medium for me to use when it comes to feelings. I will always choose any other means possible. I thought you knew that going in."

"Yes I knew that but you've come so far Jack. I thought we were past all those things."

"Well it seems not. I was in trauma, I admit that. But as time has gone on, I....I...."

"What Jack?"

"I.... I find myself thinking more and more about the.... the child. About being a parent.... a father. You know that one single word conjures up in me the very worst fears that life can bring. It terrifies me. The word, the definition.... not the child that comes with the title."

Jennifer touched his forearm. "Jack I understand, I really do. Your points of reference for fathering are violent and sick. But you're not like them Jack. You are Jo's son. You will be Jo's kind of parent. She's always adored you and done what's best for you. And you'll do that for our baby."

"I think that's what all this is designed to tell you. I want you to know that I haven't forgotten what got us to this point and that I do treasure every moment of our time together. I want you to know that I do love.... the child. I really do. And I love her mother more."

"Her, Jack? Do you want a girl? You've never said a thing about it before."

"It's funny but I only think of this child as a girl. A small girl with long golden hair, a perky nose and too much to say."

A feeling of well-being and contentment swelled through Jennifer as she placed her head gently on his chest, his arms enfolding her.

After a few moments, she spoke softly, "I always wanted to be like this with you in this office, you know."

"And I wanted so much to hold you like this."

"Why didn't you Jack? Why did you fight so hard to keep distance between us? I know you say it's because you thought you'd hurt me but surely there was a lot more to it than that."

"Jennifer...."

"Tell me Jack, just let it out."

"It's not just one thing. My life has been complex, torn, shattered even, by so many events that it's impossible to pinpoint which was the most traumatic. I bounced from one to the other with no control over where I landed. That is until I met you. You know in those early days, I used to see you around town, part of that respected Horton clan. You were so enthusiastic about life just as mine was falling apart. Then when you started showing an interest in me, I...."

"Wait a minute, I showed an interest in you. I think it was the other way around. You were like a bad penny Jack. You turned up everywhere I went. You never left me alone."

"Methinks the lady protest too much. You made a point of always letting me know what you were doing. How could I ignore hints like that."

"You are so stubborn Jack Harcourt Deveraux."

"Determined, not stubborn. That term is reserved for the mother of.... my child. You know I've never actually said that before. My child. It still terrifies me."

"You'll be a great and wonderful father, Jack. In fact I wouldn't be surprised if you weren't one of the best fathers a son could ever have."

"There's one thing I can say for certain and that is I know what not to do when it comes to parenting. By the way, you said son. Do you know.... I mean is the child.... a boy?"

"Jack, it's far too early to tell. My first ultrasound is next week but I don't want them to tell me what the baby is. I want to be surprised. My bet is a boy though."

"I'm not good at ball sports you know. Don't expect me to be out the back tossing baseballs or anything like that."

"I was thinking you might be into fencing. You seemed very adept with the sword."

"And the pen. You know one day I must show you my school sport awards. There's one in particular that might surprise you."

"You mean your swimming one. I've known you can swim for years Jack."

"What are you talking about? I hate the water. Hate it!"

"Except when it's warm and full of bubbles," giggled Jennifer.

"I think bubbles have gone to your head Mrs. Deveraux. You seem positively exuberant."

"It's Miss Horton, tonight, remember. And why shouldn't I be exuberant. My husband just told me that he's looking forward to our baby."

"Did I say that?"

"In a manner, yes. Well in your manner. You sure beat around the bush when it comes to finding the words. No wonder you need my help all the time with your editorial."

"I do not need your help. I just think it's wise for you to keep your hand in when it comes to the superior medium of the printed press. One never knows when one has to go back to one's roots and leave that wasteland of television behind."

"You never let up do you Jack. Always trying for the last word."

"And you are always after that by-line, Miss Horton. Now are you going to help me with this story or not?"

"Not, I'm having some Chinese first. Then I might lower myself into the wasteland of the printed press to assist you."

"Oh, I had something more interesting in mind than Chinese food."

"You did? What? Jack you don't mean that?"

"I do indeed mean that which I only use in italics."

"But Jack, the phone, Vern, the office. Anybody could come in."

"I think we've had this conversation before but for the record. The phone is off the hook, Vern is safe at home and the door is locked. Anything else stopping you?"

"Apart from extreme hunger, I can't think of a single thing. I love you Jack Deveraux."

"And I love you Miss.... Jennifer Deveraux. And I'm glad that you are going to be the mother of our child. I just hope that I live up to your and the child's expectations."

"There's not a doubt in my mind. Make love to me Jack."

Jack could feel his heart pounding as he brushed his lips against her cheek and down her neck. Her skin turned pink with his touch and she turned to him and smiled.

"I have never wanted you more than I do now."
"And no one will ever love you the way I love you," he whispered as he laid her down.