"Honey, it may not be as bad as Rick made it sound." Thorne tried reasoning.

"Not as bad as it sounds?" Brooke repeated incredulous. "Your parents, along with Jonathan, have involved my son in some baby selling scheme! I cant believe that Eric, let alone Jonathan would condone such a thing." Brooke spat out angrily.

"Oh, but my mother would, huh? Come on Brooke. You owe it to my parents to get their side of the story. Maybe Rick doesnt understand what is really going on here." Thorne suggested. He wasnt really defending his mother and father, but he found it hard to believe that they would involve themselves in something like this, to say nothing of Rick.

Brooke tried to keep the anger out of her voice. It would do no good getting mad with Thorne. She recalled the conversation at dinner earlier in the evening with Rick. It was obvious that Rick hadnt intended to, but he dropped the bombshell about him and Amber being together again, and if that wasnt bad enough, apparently little Erics real father was in LA and demanding a million dollars to get out of the childs life. Brooke was livid and told Rick as much. She let him know her feelings about him and Amber getting back together and about the whole Deacon Sharpe mess. Rick became anger and defensive and stormed off, leaving his fourteen-year-old sister Bridget sitting alone at the table with her and Thorne.

Brooke felt guilty. For the last year she had been consumed with Thorne and their marriage. It had been a trying year, filled with recriminations and heartache. First, Macy refused to divorce Thorne and had even starting drinking again in hopes of ensuring that he would stay in the marriage out of guilt. When she saw that wasnt going to work, she started on an almost daily attack against Brooke. Sometimes she would barge into Brookes office drunk, or follow Brooke around LA, once even corning her in a grocery story. Brooke recalled with fresh humiliation how a drunk Macy yelling at the top of her lungs, calling Brooke all manner of sluts and whores, accusing her of having an affair with Thorne, right in the middle of the damn store. Brooke recalled looking at the faces of the people who had gathered to witness her total humiliation. Finally, in frustration, Brooke, at the insistent of Connor, had a restraining issued against Macy.

The restraining order was a wake up call for Macy and her family. Sally demanded that Macy go into alcohol treatment immedialy. Macy did, signing the divorce papers before she left LA for an extended stay at a treatment center in Arizona. That was more than five months ago and as far as Brooke knew, Macy was still in Arizona.

She and Thorne married soon after that in a small but elegant wedding. The wedding took place in Brookes own garden, but the capper of the day was Stephanies decision to walk the shocked bride down the isle. Brooke still remembered how touched she was. The whole day was beautiful, one that Brooke wouldnt soon forget.

Of course, soon after their return from the honeymoon, she and Stephanie had settled into an uneasy truce. They spoke to one another, but neither went out of their way to be with the other. It was obvious that Stephanie didnt trust her and expected Brooke to hurt Thorne at any moment. She felt Stephanies eyes on her whenever she talked with Ridge or was even in the same room with him. It was as Stephanie expected her to suddenly come on to Ridge. Brooke had to smile when she thought about how Stephanie would stare at her during a family evening together. As far as she was concerned, Ridge was her brother in-law and nothing else. Any feelings she had for him died a slow painful death after what he did to her in Venice. Even now, more than a year later, she still felt uneasy around her former friend. Brooke doubted that they would ever get back to the friendship they had before Venice.

"Honey, why dont you come to bed. Youre not going to solve anything tonight." Thorne, reclining on the bed, wearing on a pair of pajama bottoms, watched as his wife slipped further and further away from him, lost deep into her own thoughts. Getting off the bed, he walked over to where Brooke was now sitting at the dressing table. He started massaging her shoulders, trying to get her to relax.

Brooke met her husband's eyes in the mirror. Leaning her head back until she touched his stomach, Brooke closed her eyes and sighed, enjoying Thornes efforts.

"I am sorry, sweetheart. Youre right, theres nothing I can do tonight." Brooke spoke absently. Her mind was already running ahead to confronting Eric and Stephanie about the million-dollar offer to little Erics real father. She also planned on talking with Rick about his plans to remarry Amber. That would happen over her dead body, Brooke thought grimly. Lastly, she had every intention of speaking with Mr. Deacon Sharpe.

Thorne could see that he was losing his wife again. Moving his hands from her shoulders, he ran his hands through her hair, gently massaging her scalp and her temples. Reaching down, he engulfed her small hand in his much larger one, and led her back to their bed.

Stopping beside the bed, he removed her bathrobe that she had donned after her bath earlier. Leaning forward, he kissed her, still feeling the tension that gripped her. Finally, Brooke responded to his kiss, lifting her arms, she encircled his head. Lifting her against his body, he picked her up and laid her on the bed. Getting in after her, Thorne lovingly continued to kiss her as her sweet mouth opened for him. Not wanting to rush, Thorne was content to kiss her mouth, her eyelids, her soft brows, and the luscious softness of her earlobe.

"I love you," Brooke whispered softly.

"I love you, too." Thorne whispered back.

Thorne found his wife intoxicating. He fell more in love with her every day. Leaning over her now, he kissed a trail down to her responsive breast, not surprised to see her nipples already puckered. Circling one nipple with his tongue, Thorne felt Brookes movements, telling him she liked what he did to her. Finally, he took the nub into his warm mouth, while Brooke pushed her fingers through his hair, holding his head still.

"Please Thorne. I need you now." She whispered ardently.

Thorne knew what she wanted and he was more than willing to give it to her. Moving his hands down to the apex of her thighs, he felt her moisture. She once again reacted to the touch of his hand.

Brooke opened her legs trying to hurry Thorne. She needed to be a part of him now. "Please, Thorne." She again whispered.

"Ok, baby. I cant wait either." Thorne whispered back to her.

The music was loud; the mellow sounds of the smooth jazz flowed out of the discreetly placed speakers. Deacon Sharpe walked out of the office, located in the back of the Lair and looked around. He wasnt surprised to see a full house, even though it was a Sunday night, traditionally a slow night for most clubs. Ever since he had taken over as the manager of the club, the clientele had risen steadily. The success of the club was due to many factors, but even the owners had to admit that Deacon had taken a bar that was losing money and turned it into one of the trendiest nightspots in LA. The Lair was fast becoming the club to be seen in, especially for up and coming starlets. There was even a few paparazzos that hung out in front of the club occasionally, hoping to get a picture of the latest hot property. Sunday night was reserved for the music that Deacon loved; jazz. The club still managed to attract a young and hip crowd for that night.

"Deacon, theres someone here to see you." Alex said, bringing him out of his reverie.

Deacon turned to face the beautiful black waitress, Alex. Since coming to LA to run the Lair, Alex had become a true friend. She was the only one that he allowed to see the real person, not the arrogant façade he showed to everyone else. "Oh yeah. Who is it?" Deacon asked off handily.

Deacon had to smile at Alexs comment. He couldnt dispute what she said. It was always some woman waiting to see him and they pretty much all looked the same. He hadnt formed any close relationship with a woman in years, and with the success he was enjoying here in LA, he didnt figure hed settle down any time soon.

Despite it being against the law, Deacon lit a cigarette. Squinting his eyes against the smoke, he looked around the bar, locating the beautiful woman sitting alone at one of the tables. "Jenna Cole," Deacon thought. He should have figured it was she. He had been screwing her steadily for a month now, and she was starting to become possessive, something he could not allow.

"Alex, whats wrong with some women? They take a perfectly mutually satisfying relationship and turn it into something its not." Deacon spoke softly.

Alex shook her head and hid a smile. She looked over to the table where the beautiful blond sat, waiting for Deacon. She wasnt kidding when she told Deacon they all looked alike. They were all tall leggy blondes that ran around half-naked, and they all fell hard for her boss. Alex supposed Deacon treated the women ok, but she would never put up with the crap they put up with from Deacon. He had a roving eye and he made no effort to hide it. She herself noticed that while sitting with the latest blond on his arm, Deacon wasnt averse to checking out the newest blond to walk into the Lair.

"It will never happen, Alexthe falling in love part I mean. I have been down that road and I dont plan on going back again." Deacon said softly. "Thanks for getting the champagne; youre the greatest." He leaned over to place a small kiss on Alexs check. Alex rolled her eyes and walked towards the bar to order the champagne for Deacons latest reject.

Deacon walked back into his office, still smiling at his exchange with Alex. Sometimes he thought the women he attracted were more trouble than they were worth. His problem was that he loved women, all women. He loved the smell of them, their softness, and their logic, just everything about them. True, right now he preferred blondes, but he pretty much dated any woman that caught his fancy and unfortunately, that was a fair amount of women.

Walking over to his desk, he noticed the flashing light on his answering machine, indicating that he had messages. Sitting in the chair behind his desk, he hit the button to hear his messages.

The first one was from a wine distributor, promising that he would have that special wine that Deacon wanted. The second message was from a woman that he dated once, issuing a very sexy invitation. He made a mental note to get back with Brea before the night was over.

The next day:

Brooke walked purposely towards Eric office. She had calmed down from the previous evening, but she was still angry with Eric for putting her son in the middle of something illegal. Stopping only to offer a quick knock on the door, Brooke walked in. Eric was in his office, but she was disappointed to find that he wasnt alone. Ridge was there also.

Eric sighed deeply. He talked with Rick last night after he had gotten back from dinner with his sister, Brooke and Thorne. Rick told him how he had let it slip about Deacon and little Eric. He also told Eric how upset Brooke had become. Eric had been expecting to see Brooke all morning, but truth be told, he wasnt looking forward to their conversation.

"Brooke, Ridge and I are in the middle of something here." Eric said.

"I see that Eric, but this is important. Ridge, do you mind if I spoke with your father for a momentalone?" Brooke asked.

Ridge looked first at Eric and then at Brooke. Whatever was going on with Rick, it was evident that Eric didnt want to talk to Brooke about it. From the set of her jaw, Ridge knew that Brooke was just as determined to speak with Eric, as he was to avoid speaking with her.

"No, I dont mind. Dad, we can go over this later." Ridge stood up and walked out of the office.

"Well Eric, I suspect you know why I want to talk with you. How could you? How could you involve my son in something like this?" Brooke demanded.

Eric again sighed. Raking his fingers through his hair, he turned to face an angry Brooke.

"And you went along with it," Brooke asked, incredulously.

"Yes, but for a million bucks! Eric, doesnt that strike you as wrong? Cant you see that?" Brooke said, becoming angrier by the minute.

"Brooke, please, calm down. It is not as black and white as it seems." Eric knew how this sounded to Brooke. He had said much the same things to himself, but between Rick, Stephanie, and Amber he felt he had no choice. Besides, he wanted to do something for his youngest son. He was aware of how much he had neglected both Bridget and Rick throughout the years.

"Thats just it, Brooke. You were otherwise occupied and I did the best I could for our son." Eric said.

"No, Brooke Im not. But please, it isnt as bad as you think it is. In fact, another day or two and it will be all over." Eric said, trying to reason with Brooke.

Macy drove her rented car towards LA and home. After almost six months away from her mother and CJ, it was time to go home and face her demons. Thoughts of Thorne flashed in her mind. She had heard that he and Brooke had married, and were now living in the house that Thornes brother brought for her when they were married.

"Hello, Megan. Is he in?" Taylor stood next to Megans desk, pointing to her husbands closed door. She had decided to surprise him with a visit and maybe a little afternoon delight. Taylor smiled at this last part. It had been sometime since she and Ridge had done anything so spontaneous.

"Oh hi Taylor. Yes he is in there, but hes in the middle of fitting a model. Theyve been in there a while, Im sure it wont be much longer." Megan said.

Disappointed, Taylor half-expected and hoped Ridge would be free. He had been spending more and more time at Forresters. Leaving early in the morning and not returning until well after the children were in bed.

Ridge stood up from the couch, buttoning his shirt at the same time. He looked back over his shoulders at Christy, still lying as he left her, naked, wearing nothing more than a smile.

"Come on Christy, I have to get back to work." Ridge said sternly.

"Do we have to baby. I dont think I can walk after that last time." Christy said seductively.

Christy pouted prettily. "And youre an insatiable stud, arent you." She said mockingly.

Ridge looked down at her, noticing her lips that were red and swollen from his kisses. The nipples of her breast were still prominent and puckered from his earlier ministration. Looking down further, he saw her opened her legs.

He was oh so tempted to join her again, but today was a fluke. Normally, he and Christy met at her house or at the Beverly Hills Hotel. In his own defense, it was too hard to resist her when she came into his office wearing nothing under her robe. She took the robe off and dressed in the latest item from Brookes Bedroom line right in front of him. He couldnt stand it. He took great pleasure in ripping the flimsy material off of her and tossing her on the couch. Stopping only long enough to unzip and unbutton his pants, he entered her hard and fast that first time, unable to hold back for a moment. Now, more than an hour later, he was sated and relaxed, and he was again aware of their surroundings. He shuddered to think of what would have happened had his father or mother tried walking into his office, to say nothing of his wife. He hadn't bothered to lock the door and until after he came the first time!

Thinking about Taylor brought fresh guilt to the surface. He never expected that after five years of marriage to a woman he loved, that he would be having an extra marital affair, yet, here he was, doing just that.

Slowly getting up from the couch, Christy could feel her body protesting. She and Ridge were not gentle lovers; they both went at it like two mad animals. Sometimes, she was left with a bruise or two, and he was left with love bites and scratches. She often wondered how he explained those little bites and scratches, but so far, they had gotten away with their affair.

Christy retrieved her robe from the floor and put it on. She walked over to where Ridge was standing. She put her arms around his neck, and moved her body close to his. "Will I see you later tonight, baby?" She asked, now nuzzling his neck.

Moving his hands up to her hair, he grabbed a hand full of the blonde tresses, bringing her face close to his and kissing her, his tongue entering her mouth, mimicking what happened earlier between the lovers. The silence in the room was broken only by their moans and the smacking sounds they made as they kissed.

"What do you think? Of course Ill see you tonight." Ridge said, feeling for not the first time that he was addicted to the woman. She was all he thought about most days. The nights that he lay in bed next to a sleeping Taylor, his mind was alive with images of Christy and their last time together.

Kissing her one last time, they made plans for Ridge to come to her apartment later that evening. He watched as she first unlocked the door and walked out. He went into the bathroom adjoining his office and started the shower and also disposed of the used condoms. He reeked of sex and he couldnt take any chances that Taylor or his parents would smell it on him.

Christy walked out of Ridges office, trying hard not to look at Megan. Megan was no fool, and Christy was willing to bet money that the secretary knew of her and Ridges affair.

"Ill see you later Megan," She mumbled and quickly walked away.

Megan watched as the model walked down the hall. She almost wished that Taylor were headed back this way at that very moment. While she didnt care for Taylor personally, she hated what Ridge was doing to her and those three kids.

Megan had worked at the company long enough to see Ridge come full circle. She remembered his reputation as a rake and a womanizer when she first came to work here, in fact, she had first hand knowledge of just what sort of man he was. She recalled how he tried coming on to her and her refusal to get involved with the playboy. She had a firm policy of never shitting where she ate, and not even the then sexy Ridge could make her forego that rule.

Then he married Caroline and settled down. Even after Carolines death, he still hadnt reverted to his old ways. Megan could only figure that as he was aging, Ridge was trying hard to recapture a part of his life that had long since passed. Not uncommon occurrence among men of a certain age from what she understood.

"Hello mother." A soft voice said. Sally looked up from the paperwork on her desk and nearly catapulted from her chair.

"Oh Macy, sweetheart. Im so happy youre back. You look wonderful." This was all said as Sally engulfed her daughter in what could only be described as a bear hug. With tears pouring from her eyes, Sally couldnt remember a time when she was happier. Her beloved daughter was back.

"Oh mother, I have missed you too." Macy said, with her own tears falling. She was so sorry for what she put her mother through, something else she could blame that bitch for, Macy thought.

Sally stepped back so that she could really look at Macy. She took in the pretty picture she made in the bottle green shirtdress, the perfect foil for her red hair. She looked healthy and her eyes were clear.

"Macy, I cant tell you how proud I am of you. You did it all on your own." Sally said, beaming with pride for her daughter.

Sally was shocked. She hadnt known that Thorne and Macy were in touch with each other during this time. Why, he just recently married Brooke, and she couldnt imagine Brooke condoning Thornes involvement with her daughter. "You mean, Thorne came to see you dear?" Sally asked, needing to understand just how her former son in-law fit into her daughters sobriety.

"No, he didnt mom. I havent talked directly to Thorne in over five months. No, I mean, he was there for me here." Macy was pointing to her heart.

Sally was once again shocked. She wasnt certain what this meant, but she knew it could only mean trouble for Macy in the end. Now that she was no longer married to Thorne, Sally hoped that Macy would move on with her life. That hadnt happened in the five months that she was in treatment.

"Sweetheart, you do know that Thorne and Brooke are married, dont you?" Sally asked gently.

"Of course I do mother. But I also know that Brooke will never stay faithful to Thorne and when she does cheat on him, I am going to be there for him. I love him and that hasnt changed." Macy said forcefully.

Stephanie smiled at the man sitting across from her. She couldnt recall a time when she felt more desirable than at this very moment. She had Massimo to thank for that.

"Tell me, why are you smiling darling." Massimo asked.

"Oh, I dont know. Maybe because Im sitting in the middle of the Café Russe with a man that makes me feel very special." Stephanie said with a beatific smile.

"Why should you feel guilty? My God, the man has cheated on you throughout your marriage. He even had two children by a woman that you hate and lost half his company in the process." Massimo was angry and he didnt bother to hide it.

"Brooke wouldnt have been in your company if Eric hadnt married her. Stephanie, dont defend thatthat man to me." Massimo stressed the word man, saying it rather nastily.

"That would be lovely," Stephanie agreed, anxious to be a part of Massimo again.

Taylor sat at her desk, seething with anger. She never got a chance to see her husband and even Stephanie was missing from her own office. In frustration, Taylor left Forresters without seeking out Ridge again. She picked up a sandwich on the way back to her office and had her lunch quietly at her desk. She tried hard not to think about Ridge, but she couldnt help but remember that it had been more than six weeks since they had been intimate. She was sick of the hours that Ridge kept lately and she was tired of telling the kids that their father would be home to see them only to turn around and comfort them when he didnt get home before their bedtime.

Taylor was startled when her telephone rang, the sound loud and jarring in the quiet of her office.

"Dr. Forrester." She answered.

"Oh my goodness, James. Where are you? Are you in LA? Did you find your daughter?" Taylor peppered the questions at James.

James laughed on the other end of the telephone. "Whoa, Taylor! One question at a time, please. Yes, I am in LA and I have my beautiful daughter with me. I found her, Taylor. I found my daughter!" James said excitedly.

Taylor looked down at the cold partially eaten sandwich. She was still hungry and seeing James would be an added bonus.

"Theres a little Italian restaurant on the corner of North and 3rd. Do you know it?" James asked.

"I know exactly the restaurant youre talking about. I can be there in twenty minutes." Taylor said.

Stephanies head was on Massimos shoulders, her hand gently rubbing through the course salt and pepper hairs on his chest. The thought flashed in her mind that she ought to be ashamed for what she was doing, but she wasnt. She had loved Massimo for what seemed forever. She would be married to him now if her parents hadnt interfered.

When Massimo came to town three years ago, the love that she thought she had buried and forgotten quickly came to the surface. It wasnt long after that first meeting that the one-time lovers became lovers once again. No guilt, no recriminations, her only thoughts of Massimo and what could have been had her parents not interfered.

"Leave him!" The command coming from Massimo, whom Stephanie had assumed was asleep.

"I know no such thing, Stephanie. Does this mean that you dont love me?" Massimo demanded.

Stephanie lifted her head from his shoulders. She turned to look him deeply in the eyes. "How can you doubt my love for you?" She asked.

"A family of grown children, Stephanie!" Massimo said, interrupting her.

"What if I were to move my operation here?" Massimo said after a moment of silence, lost in thought.

"Are you going to do that Massimo?" Stephanie asked, somewhat anxious at the thought of Massimo permanently in LA.

"Yes, as a matter fact thats exactly what Im going to do. I have been thinking about it for a while now." Massimo sat up and proceeded to get out of the bed. Retrieving a large white terry cloth robe from the floor near the bed, he put the robe on and went to make himself a drink.

"Can I get you something, Stephanie?" He asked.

Stephanie sat up on the bed, leaning back against the pillows, the sheets drawn up to cover her.

"Are you doing this for me, Mass?" Stephanie asked, not certain how she felt about it.

Massimo laughed. He loved Stephanie, but he hadnt become a billionaire by following woman around. He could see from the look on her face that he had hurt her feelings. Putting his glass down on the bar in the well-appointed hotel, Massimo walked to the bed. Sitting on the edge near Stephanie, he caressed her face lovingly. Looking into her blue eyes, he wanted to assure her of his love.

All the while, Massimo was stroking her cheek. She grabbed his hand and kissed his palm.

"I love you, Mass." Stephanie said.

"And I love you too, Stephanie. I want to be with you all the time, not just when you can sneak away. Promise me to at least think about moving in with me once my move is complete." Massimo said beseechingly.

"I promise, Ill think about it Mass. Now, come back to bed. Im missing you already." Stephanie said, hoping she achieve some semblance of sexiness.

Taylor saw James as soon as she walked into the restaurant. She could not believe how happy it made her to see him. Moving quickly towards the table where he sat, she saw the moment he realized that she was present.

"James, it is so good to see you." Taylor said, as she hugged the now standing James.

"I cant tell you how good it is to see you, my dear." James answered in his soft Scottish accent.

Stephanie walked into her home, happy and sated after an afternoon of pure bliss. Looking at her watch, she saw that it was almost six oclock, which meant Eric was probably not home. She walked up stairs to the room she shared with Eric and was relieved to see it empty.

Going into the bathroom, she started a bath, adding the soothing bath salts that she liked. It would be at least an hour before Eric was home, and that gave her plenty of time for a nice long soak while she reminisced about her afternoon with Massimo.

Removing her clothes, she looked at herself in the full-length mirror. She tried to see herself as Massimo had. He didnt mind the extra weight she had put on in the last several years. He overlooked the skin that wasnt as firm as it once was. Thats what made her time with him so special. He looked at her and it was if he saw her as she had once been. Eric hadnt looked at her like that since their remarriage. This was one of the reasons that Stephanie simply refused to be guilty about cheating on Eric. It was obvious that Eric no longer found her attractive and he no longer touched her as Massimo had today.

Thorne walked into the house he shared with Brooke and Bridget. He was exited about what he thought was good news, and hopefully, his wife would feel the same. He was disappointed to find Katie and Bridget sitting in the family room watching television. This could only mean that Brooke wasnt home.

Going over to where Katie and Bridget were sitting on the couch, Thorne awkwardly ruffled Bridgets hair. Since marrying Brooke, his relationship with Bridget had become strained. He understood Bridgets reticence with him, but none the less, it was very disheartening. He had to wonder though how much of it was due to the fact he was her brother and also her stepfather and how much of it was the natural tendency of being a teenager. Hopefully, they would bridge the ever-widening gap between them and once again become the friends they were once.

Rolling her yes at the use of Ricks nickname for her, Bridget barely acknowledged Thrones presence. "Alright I guess." The teenager answered, never once looking directly at her brother.

Thorne sighed. It seemed no matter what he did, he couldnt get through to Bridget. Hoping for more, Thorne was disappointed when Bridget continued to ignore him and watch the television.

Turning to where Katie was sitting, Thorne asked about his wife.

Katie had noticed the exchange between Bridget and Thorne and she felt bad for him. Anyone could see that he loved Bridget, but the teenager wanted very little to do with him.

"Did she say where she was going?" Thorne asked now with growing concern. It was unlike Brooke to not tell him where she was going. They had lunch earlier in the day and while she was preoccupied with what was happening with Rick, she never mentioned anything about going out tonight.

Brooke stopped her car in front of the attendant, exiting it so that he could park it for her. She wasnt sure what she expected, but the Lair looked better than she thought it would. Coming to see Deacon Sharpe tonight was an impulse move on her part. Once Eric had told her everything that had gone on with Rick and the baby, she found she couldnt wait another minute to confront that man that was willing to sell his child. She had already started the ball rolling to end the mess that Eric had made of this.

"My, my, my. Deacon, you should see the honey that just walked in here!" So said Bryant Shaw, the LA Lakers newest power forward.

Raising a brow, Deacon turned to see what woman had so impressed the man that could have any woman he desired. He saw her immediately, and soon after, his breathing became constricted.

Wearing a sheer olive colored organza blouse with extended cuffs and pointed collar, a black camisole worn underneath the blouse, and black leather pants, she commanded the attention of just about everyone in the room. She stood atop the stairs that led directly into the bar itself. To Deacon, it appeared that she was looking for someone. He noticed how the muted light directly above her caught the gold highlights of her hair, and making her gold accessories sparkle.

He kept his eyes on her as she walked gracefully down the three steps and towards the other end of the bar from where he stood, rooted to the spot. Of course, Greg, the bartender immedialy came to her aide, and Deacon watched as she leaned closer to Greg to talk. He found himself admiring the way the leather pants clung to her firm butt.

Brooke walked towards the man that the bartender had pointed to. He was standing near the extremely tall good-looking black guy. He was dressed in a black blazer, black shirt and black pants. For some unknown reason, Brooke felt a sense of recognition shoot through her. She didnt know Deacon from a hole in the ground, but there was something about him that she wouldnt acknowledge to herself. When she looked into his blue/green eyes, she felt her breath catch in her throat.

Ignoring whatever it was she was feeling, Brooke continued towards the man and finally stood directly in front of him. She tried not to notice how the cologne he wore and the underlining something that could only be his very essence, affected her. Her nostril flared, and she stilled herself to do what had to be done.

"Deacon Sharpe?" She asked unsmilingly.

Deacon breathed deeply, smelling the perfume and something more that radiated off her. He looked her in the eyes, thinking that the heavily lashed eyes were the most beautiful hed ever seen. Her yes were green now, but he had a feeling that they changed with her mood. Seeing her up close, he knew that she wasnt the normal clientele that frequented the club. This was no young starlet wanna be. She was a woman, and apparently, a woman of means. Deacon recognized designer originals when he saw them and he knew that the gold earrings and necklace she wore were not gold plated.

"Im Deacon Sharpe. What can I do for you, Ms" Deacon prompted.

"I would like to speak with youprivately." Brooke said, emphasizing the privately and she turned to face the tall black man that Deacon had been speaking with earlier.

Bryant Shaw made a face at Deacon once Brooke had turned her back to him again. He mouthed the work Bitch and watched as Deacon fought to keep from laughing. "Ill talk to you later Dog." Bryant stood up and clasped Deacons hand in the universally accepted urban handshake. He walked away from the two people who seemed to have eyes only for each other.

"What can I do for you, Ms" Once again, Deacon prompted for Brooke for her name.

"Forrester. Mrs. Thorne Forrester. I believe you know my son, Rick." Brooke could not have surprised Deacon more if she tried. He found it hard to believe that the woman standing before him was the mother of the spoiled brat that he had met on several occasions.

Thorne sat on the bed, waiting for his wife to return home. Looking at the clock on the bed stand, he was surprised to see that it was almost nine oclock. He had been home an hour and still no word from Brooke. He even tried her cell phone earlier, but no one answered.

Thorne was starting to worry and frankly, he was becoming angry too. Brooke had not contacted him and he had not seen her since lunch. Reaching for the phone, he quickly dialed his parents number. His one hope was that Brooke had gone there to discuss the situation with Rick. He was weak with relief when Rick himself answered the phone. He could only think what his parents, especially his mother, would think about him calling around, looking for his wife.

"Rick, how are you?" Thorne asked, forcing himself to remain calm.

"Thorne? Is that you?" Rick was surprise that Thorne would be calling this late. He was only here because he and his father were going over the final plans for little Eric. Despite his mothers objections, they would give Deacon a million dollars and he, the baby, and Amber would be a family again.

"My mother is overreacting, but no, she isnt here, Thorne." Rick answered.

"That will be good. Goodnight Rick." Thorne hung up the phone, more dejected than he was before. Wherever Brooke was, she owned him an explanation.

Brooke looked around the office. It was nicely appointed, with a large walnut desk, as its main centerpiece. There was the usual office equipment on the desk, including a PC. This was somewhat surprising to Brooke, although she felt sure that her reaction was a bit snobbish. She watched as Deacon went over to a small bar on the other end of the room.

Deacon could see the wheels turning in her brains. She thought hed have a rinky dinky little office that perhaps doubled as a broom closet or something.

Turning to ask her if she wanted a drink, he found her staring at him. Hiding a smile, he asked her if she wanted a drink.

"No thank you," Brooke answered. She was embarrassed. He caught her looking at him. Telling herself to get a grip, Brooke sat in the chair that he indicated. Unable to help herself, she watched as he walked around the desk.

"Well, Mrs. Thorne Forrester. Do you want to tell me why you want me?" Deacon said, noticing the double meaning wasnt lost on the beautiful woman if the flare in her eyes was anything to go by.

Brooke was livid. How dare he come on to her? "Look, Mr. Sharpe, I dont have time to play games with you. I just want you to know that any offer to buy little Eric from you has been rescinded." Brooke said, with barely concealed anger.

Deacon took a drink of his scotch to give himself more time. He loved how her eyes sparkled when she was pissed. He wondered how she would look once she was aroused.

"But I didnt make any deal with you, Mrs. Forrester. My deal is exclusively with Eric Forrester and your son of course. I doubt they would want to rescind the offer. Your son seems to need my son to get the girl." The last was said with a small laugh.

"Despite your deal with my sons father, there will be no further talk about money exchanging hands for a little boy. Now, if you are little Erics father, then youre going to have to prove it." Brooke said firmly.

"Why dont we cross that bridge when we get to it." Brooke riffled through her small purse and retrieved a business card. She passed the card to Deacon, making certain that they didnt touch in any way.

"What if Im busy tomorrow." Deacon asked, not liking her telling him what to do.

"Hell also guarantee to have the results as soon as possible." Brooke continued as if Deacon had not spoken. "Hell see you at nine a.m., so dont be late. This is a very important man who is doing me a favor." With that, Brooke stood up ready to walk out the door.

Deacon leaped up from the desk. He didnt know who that lady thought she was, but no one ordered him around, especially in his bar.

Walking quickly before she could leave the room, Deacon grabbed her by her arm and turned her around to face him. "Who the hell do you think you are, coming here and giving me orders?" He demanded.

Brooke was not scared, but she was suddenly aware of how small the room was. He seemed to be standing very close to her, so close she could smell the liquor on his breath. Jerking her arm out of his grasp, she glared back at him.

"How dare you touch me!" She demanded of him.

"How dare you come to my club, giving me orders lady! You may get away with that shit with those pansy ass Forrester men, but it dont fly here baby." Deacon said, moving even closer to her. He backed her up until her back was against the door and he was leaning over her.

Brooke looked up into the most beautiful eyes she had ever seen. She tried hard not to notice his eyes, his lips, everything about him. He was looking down at her too. It seemed that she could almost feel his eyes as first they looked deeply into her eyes, then slowly looked down her neck and finally her breast. She could feel her breathing increase, her breast raising and falling with her effect to draw the suddenly much need air into her lungs.

Unable to help himself, Deacon leaned closer to her, his hands on the door on either side of her head. He expected her to hit out at him, but she stood still, as if whatever had him in its grip also had her too. He brought his lips to hers, moving them back and forth across her own. She didnt respond, but neither did she pull away.

He lifted his head, looking down into her eyes. He watched as her tongue came out to moisten her suddenly dry lips. Moaning deep in his throat, Deacon brought his arms down, and encircled her waist, lifting her from the door. Following her own example, Deacon licked her lips, back and forth.

Brooke, unable to stop what was happening, opened her mouth allowing Deacon access to the sweetness inside. It was if they couldnt get enough of each other, kissing deeply, his hands now in her hair, holding her head still while his mouth feasted on her own.

Deacon fingers went to the top button on her blouse, and even that didnt rouse Brooke from the world that she and Deacon had created. He had all the buttons undone, and he pushed the blouse off her shoulders. When it fell to the floor, it did so unnoticed by both Brooke and Deacon.

Removing his mouth from hers, Deacon looked deeply into Brookes eyes, and he realized that they were a darker green when she was aroused. He felt his own arousal pressing against her stomach. With both hands, Deacon pushed the straps of the camisole that Brooke wore. He lowered the silken material until her breast was revealed. Leaning in, Deacon gave Brooke an almost a chaste kiss on the lips. He nuzzled the side of her neck, using his tongue to leave a heated wet trail down her neck. Brooke held her head to one side, giving him access to her neck.

Brooke almost cried out when Deacon finally reached her breast. She moaned when his mouth encased her sensitive nipple inside the warmth of his mouth.

Deacon couldnt believe how responsive she was. He left one breast, heard her cry out in protest until his mouth settled on the other breast, giving it the loving attention that he just given the other.

Brooke ran her hands through the hair at the nape of Deacons next. She had no coherent thoughts as she gave herself up to the sensual sensation. She was so deeply into what was happening to her, she was later surprised that she heard the knock on the door.

"Stop!" She said breathlessly as Deacon continued sucking on her nipple. "There is someone at the door." Brooke pushed him away from her, suddenly ashamed and for the first time, she thought of her husband.

"Ive got to get out of here," She said out loud, though she wasnt expecting him to agree or disagree. Bending over, she picked up her blouse from the floor. When she straighten, she couldnt help but notice Deacons arousal, the arousal that had been pressing against her while they kissed. Embarrassed, she looked away from him and put on her blouse.

The knock sounded at the door again. Deacons mind was scattered. He hadnt expected that to happen, but now that it had, he wanted more. Ignoring the knock at the door, he went to stand behind Brooke, who was now buttoning her blouse.

Putting his hands on her shoulders, he wasnt surprised when she shook them off.

"Please," She pleaded. "This was a very bad mistake and I have to get out of here!" He watched as she picked up her purse, not certain what to say to her.

"Mrs. Forrestershit! I dont even know your name for Gods sake!" Deacon said in frustration.

"Please, you cant leave like this." Before he could continue, there came another knock on the door. Swearing under his breath, Deacon hurriedly walked to the door and snatched it opened, making sure that Brooke was hidden.

He wasnt surprised to see Alex on the other side of the door. "Alex, whats wrong? Couldnt this wait?" He asked, unable to keep the anger out of his voice.

"There is someone to see you. I think its someone from Nicks office." Alex said, still pissed at Deacons attitude when he opened the door.

"Ok, tell whoever it is, Ill be there in a minute. And thanks Alex." Deacon closed the door after Alex walked away. He turned to face Brooke once more. She was completely dressed, and she had even applied more lipstick. Whatever moment they had was over now. But Deacon didnt get where he was in life by giving up easily.

Brooke walked towards the door, having to pass him as she did. She held her breath as she drew equal to him. She wasnt certain if she could have resisted had he reached out and grabbed her. Thankfully, he didnt and she quickly left the room, never once looking back.