"The Inevitable" by: Marcie Prologue: This story picks up where the show left off on Friday, April 14, 2000. (Shawn's party is over and Phillip called Chloe to tell her not to tell anyone they were hanging out) ~*Brady Pub*~ (Belle and Shawn are the only kids left. Mimi just ran off on some mysterious errand) Belle: Looks like everyone else left. Shawn: Yeah, I guess so Belle: I can stay and help clean up if you want? Shawn: Are you sure? I mean, I wouldn't want you to miss out on all your Beauty sleep *Not like you need any*(He mumbles under his breath) Belle: Haha. Very funny shawn. But seriously, I don't have anything better to do. Shawn: Perfect Girl, FREE on a Saturday Night? I'm Shocked! Belle whacks him with the gift bag she has in her hand, unaware that there is something in it. Shawn: Owwww! Belle: What's the matter, tough boy not used to get beat up by a poor defenseless girl? Shawn: No, the video game Phillip bought me is still in there and you just gave me a nice big bruise! Belle: Oh my god, Shawn, I'm sooo sorry! She walks over to examine her arm and he grabs her and flips her - holding her upside down. Shawn: HA HA! Revenge IS sweet! Belle(helplessly flailing her arms): SHAWN DOUGLAS BRADY YOU PUT ME DOWN RIGHT NOW!! Shawn: And why should I? Belle: Because if you don't - I WILL GET YOU BACK! Shawn: oh yeah? Miss Black, are you threatening me? Belle: PUT ME DOWN! Shawn just stands there laughing. Finally, he puts her down, but only long enough to flip her over his shoulder instead. He begins to pace around the pub. Shawn: hmm...Now the question is: What do I do with you? Belle: you PUT ME DOWN! Shawn: Now, what fun is that? No, I'll think of something, just give me a minute. He leans on the bar, with Belle still dangling over his shoulder - playfully pounding on his back, and yelling at him. Belle *to herself* : I've always wanted you to hold me in your arms Shawn, but not quite like this. Shawn: What was that? Belle *Blushing*: I said "If you don't put me down, I'll get you back for this." Shawn: oh, you're all talk and no game. Belle: wanna bet? She leans forward, grabs the bucket of melted ice and pours it down the back of Shawn's shirt. Shawn: AIEEEeeee!! He puts her down and frantically tears off his wet, icy shirt. Belle *Laughing hysterically*: Don't mess with the Perfect Girl! Shawn: Urghhh He goes to grab her and gets her in a bear hug type hold. Suddenly, they stop laughing and gaze longingly up into each other's eyes. They tilt their heads and lean in for the long awaited kiss. Closer, and closer.... Chapter 2 (Updated Apr. 18) They move in closer and closer for the long awaited moment. They're mere centimeters away from each other, still moving in. Belle can feel Shawn's warm breathe on her soft face. Suddenly, Bo and Hope enter in through the door and the moment is broken. Although Belle and Shawn won't admit it to themselves, they really wanted that kiss to happen and Bo and Hope could tell. Hope*whispering*: See Brady, I told you so. Bo: How do you do that? I've been here for months and I never even had a clue - you're back a week and you already know. Hope: It's a gift *Smiling* *Back over to Belle and Shawn* Both of the confused teenagers are blushing profusely. Neither one wants to admit what almost happened, and because of that, they are somewhat grateful that the moment had been interupted. Belle: Um...uh... Shawn: uh..er.. Belle: Well, I..um... I mean well...gee, it's really gettting kinda late. I should probably go now. Shawn: Um.. yeah.. I, uh, guess so. Well, I guess I'll, uh, see you tommorow? Belle: Yeah, I guess so. They would of left it at that had it not been for Shawn's nebbie parents. Hope nudged Bo, signaling him to speak up. He stepped forward. Bo: Shawn, you're not gonna let her walk home all by herself are you? Shawn: What? Why not? Belle: No really, it's no problem. Hope: This isn't a very safe neighborhood, if you recall. Why don't you walk Belle home. Take ALL the time you need. *She winks at Bo* Bo: Yeah, we'll clean up here. You go ahead. Shawn: Well, okay. Miss Black? (He holds out her coat to her and she steps into it) Belle: Thank you Mr. Brady They start out the pub until Shawn is called back in. Shawn: Yeah, what? Bo *throws him a shirt*: This might help. Shawn: Oh yeah. Thanks. Hope*after the young couple leaves*: Happy Birthday son. ~*The Streets of Salem*~ As the two are passing dotcom, Shawn sees his friends and stops to talk for a minute. Belle gets frustrated and decides to go on ahead. Once she's out of sight of the restaraunt, a man comes up behind her and twists her arm behind her back. Mugger: Gimme your money, sweetheart. Belle: I, I don't have anything. Mugger: Oh, well that's a shame, 'cause i'm not gonna let you outta here without you giving me something. Belle starts to cry: Please, please let me go. She screams - HELP! HELP, SOMEBODY HELP ME! Mugger *Frustrated*: That's it! He pulls out a knife and holds it to Belle's throat. Mugger: Don't try that again. Now gimme your jewlery because if I'm going to all this effort, you better give me SOMETHING! Belle takes off her earrings, necklace, and watch, and frighteningly hands them to the mugger. He violently shoves her to the ground and is about to hit her when someone suddenly cracks him over the head and he falls limply to the ground. Belle: SHAWN!! Shawn: Belle, oh my god, are you okay?? Belle: Oh Shawn, I was soo scared! Shawn: You're alright now Belle, I'm here. I'll never let anyone hurt you again - I promise! Oh Belle, when I heard you, I was so worried. I couldn't take it if something ever happened to you. I love you so much! Belle: you what? Shawn: oh...um...I...uh...mean...uh Belle: Shawn, I love you too. I always have. He takes her in his arms and brings her in for a deep passionate kiss. A kiss that releases all the love and frustration they had been holding in for so long. Nothing could ever tear them apart now. But then again, that's what Bo and Hope had always thought, isn't it? Chapter 3 (Updated Apr. 19 ) After a few moments they finally break from their powerful kiss and Shawn walks Belle back to the penthouse. They stop at the door and he kisses her again. Shawn: Hey Belle? You know, the spring dance is coming up and I was wondering if-- Belle: Of course Brady! Who else would I go with? She leans up and gives him a soft, sweet kiss. At least, that's how it starts out. It soon gains a lot of passion and momentum as it gets more and more intense. ~*Inside the Penthouse*~ John: WHAT IS THAT BOY DOING WITH HIS TONGUE DOWN MY DAUGHTER'S THROAT?!? Marlena: That's what you get for spying on her! *curiously* Who is she kissing? She walks over to the door. Marlena: Oh, that is soo sweet! I can't wait to tell Hope about this! Her and Alice have known it all along. John: HOW CAN YOU BE HAPPY ABOUT THIS? Marlena: Honey, she's growing up. You knew it was going to happen someday. John: Yeah, but I thougt it would be someday when she was thirty or forty! Marlena: Oh, come on! Would you have been able to wait an extra twenty years to kiss me? John: Doc, I can't even wait twenty seconds when I want to kiss you! He grabs her around the waste, dips her, and pulls her into an intense, passionate kiss, and then he carries her upstairs. ~*At the door*~ Shawn and Belle break from their kiss after several minutes. They lean in for one more quick peck, and she reluctantly heads in- still holding onto Shawn's hand until she can't reach him anymore. He happily sighs, pauses for a moment and heads back to the FancyFaceII. She floats up the stairs to her room and leaps onto her bed to write in her diary. ~*FFII*~ While Shawn was still over at Belle's house, Bo and Hope arrived home. They are sitting at the table, discussing wedding plans when Shawn walks in the door. He blows by with a dazed look on his face and doesn't even notice his parents, who are suspiciously staring at him. BO: Shawn? Shawn? You in there son? Hope: Honey, what happened? Shawn: What? Oh...um...well, I finally told Belle how I feel, and she said she loves me too! Bo: Love? How old are you again? Hope: Oh, lighten up Bo - our little sailor man is growing up. Shawn *blushes*: Yeah, well...she's going to the spring dance with me. Bo: Way to go son! Hope elbows Bo. Hope: Well, congratulations honey! But, your father and I have something important we want to ask you. Shawn: Really? What is it? Chapter 4 (Updated Apr. 19th) Shawn: What did you guys want to ask me? Bo: Well Shawn, the last time I asked you this, you turned me down, but I think this time the circumstances are a lot more positive so...Shawn Douglas Brady, will you be my best man? Shawn: Of course. This is soo cool! Do I get to walk Belle down the aisle? Bo: Whatever makes you happy. Hope: Of course honey, I want her to be a bridesmaid too. Shawn: This is totally cool. I gotta go call Belle and tell her the good news. Bo: Hold on a second Sailor man. That's not all, there's something else we need to discuss. Hope: Yes. I'm not sure if you'll like this idea though. Shawn*curiously*: What is it? Hope: Well...we don't mean to put you out or anything, and i know last time we all sailed around the world together, but...would you be terribly upset if you and your little brother or sister stayed with the Black's while we go on our honeymoon. Shawn: Are you serious - this is awesome!!! Bo: Should I take that as a yes? Hope: I think so. Oh honey, I'm so glad everything worked out for you and Belle. I hope that someday you'll be as happy as we are right now. Nothing could make this moment more perfect. Bo*mumbles*: I could think of one thing. Hope: What was that sweety? Bo: I said, uh, I couldn't think of a thing! Hope: Me neither. Shawn goes upstairs to call Belle and tell her all this wonderful news. Bo turns his head away from Hope and thinks about all the things he can't tell Hope yet. He thinks to himself: I swear, I will tell her as soon as we're sure the baby is healthy, and my Fancy Face is okay, I'm going to tell her everything. Lord, how can I possibly tell her all the things that happened last year. How can I tell her that I married Gina? Worse yet, how can I ever tell her that she could be carrying the devil's child? Hope: Oh, and Brady, I decided to take Lexie's and your advice, and tomorrow, when I go in for my tests, I am going to get the amniosentithesis. Bo: That's great honey. I'm glad you finally listened. (Thinks: Here's my chance - when she gets the amnio, I'll have a DNA test done to be sure that it's not Stefano's baby. Oh god, please don't put my fancyface through this. Don't let it be that demon's child!) Chapter 5 (Updated Apr. 21) The next day... Hope and Bo are in a hospital room, waiting for the results of the blood test and the amniosintethesis. Meanwhile, Stefano already has plans for Rolf to steal and analyze some of the amniotic fluid to find out if the baby is his or not. Rolfe sneaks into the lab and searches for the vial containing Hope's amniotic fluid. He finds it and carefully syringes some of it into a second vial. He replaces the vial and furtively sneaks out of the hospital. ~*Back at Stefano's Lab*~ Stefano: WELL Rolfe?? What's taking so long? Is it my child or not? Rolfe: Patience, patience Stefano. We will know soon enough. Aahh, here we are, and the genetic tests prove, conclusively that the baby is, without a doubt... Stefano: SPIT IT OUT ALREADY! Rolfe: Yes Stefano. The baby is NOT yours. Stefano: *Sighs* Well, that is rather disappointing. But alas, I can still destroy John and his loved ones with this piece of information. This must mean that it is John's baby. Rolfe: Not necessarily Stefano, there is another option that we have not considered. Stefano: What are you rambling about? Rolfe: The baby could very well belong to Bo Brady. Stefano: What? How is that possible? Rolfe: If you recall, when Bo was turned into your pawn in Paris. He has many hours that he does not remember at all. A few of those hours he spent alone with Hope. Stefano: But, she was Gina then, she never would have.... Rolfe: How can you be sure? At that time she was already beginning to retrieve her memories as Hope. Loving Bo was probably one of her first recollections. And, even if it wasn't, the REAL Princess Gina went as far as MARRYING Bo, why should we assume that Hope as Gina would not make love to him? Stefano: NO! That would ruin all of my plans. We must prove without a doubt that it is not Bozo's baby. Rolfe: I'll get right on it Stefano. Chapter 6 (Updated Apr. 23) ~*Hostpital*~ Bo is talking to the lab technician that ran the DNA tests he ordered to determine if teh baby was Stefano's. The man just told him the good news that it was not Stefano's baby. Bo: So, you're sure about this. There's no chance that it's his baby? Lab Tech: Positive. These tests are entirely conclusive. Bo: Well that's great news! *to himself after man walks away* But, if it's not his baby, then whose is it. John overhears that comment and flashes back to the sub-sex scenes between him and Hope. John: Oh god, that means it IS my baby! John walks over and Bo tells him the great news. They discuss the possible options (excluding John of course) and then John excuses himself on an errand. John drives over to Stefano's house and sneaks in, just as Rolfe is telling Stefano the results of their SECOND DNA test. ~*Di'mera Mansion*~ Rolfe: I am sorry Stefano, but the tests prove that the baby belongs to Bo Brady. Stefano: NO! HOW CAN THIS BE? AFTER ALL MY HARD WORK AND PLANNING, ALL THAT I HAVE BEEN THROUGH, EVEN AS GINA, THAT WOMEN COULDN'T KEEP HER HANDS OFF BOZO! We never should have left them alone when Bozo was under my control. Rolfe: Well Stefano, what do we do now? Stefano * thinks for a minute*: WAIT! OF COURSE! This is only a minor set back, not a problem at all. Rolfe: What do you mean Stefano? Stefano: Why didn't we see this before? (He elaborates) You see, if Bozo does not know that he made love to Hope, and Hope does not remember putting Bo under my control, then no one would ever bother to check and see if the baby belongs to Bo. We can still hold it over John Black's head forever! John, hearing all of this, storms into the room. John: THAT'S WHAT YOU THINK, DI'MERA! Rolfe runs out of the room. Stefano approaches John. Stefano: So, you have heard my little secret. Now, I suppose you are going to tell Bozo the truth. John*snaps at him*: You bet your worthless life I am. Stefano: Well, I cannot have that. *He pulls out a gun and aims it at John* I should've killed you when I had the chance. John: Unfortunately for you, you didn't. *He lunges at Stefano and wrestles him to the ground. The gun goes off. Stefano lies on the floor bleeding. John gets up, and seeing what happened, runs off to call the police and inform them of the incident.* ~*Hospital*~ After John tells everyone teh details of the incident, the police rule it as self defense. Lexie is forced to face the fact that her father had not changed after all. Bo was shocked and thrilled to learn that he really had fathered Hope's baby. Hope was amazed and upset after everyone was forced to inform her of the events of the past year. After the initial shock, however, she was thrilled to know that her baby really did belong to her and Bo. No one ever found out about the sub incident, but eventually, John realized that he had been brainwashed and after he told Marlena everything he had remembered, the memories of his past no longer haunted him and the two were closer than ever. Everyone was now completely focused on Bo and Hope's upcoming wedding. It would be an event that the Salemites would NEVER forget! Chapter 7 (Updated Apr. 24) It's the day of Bo and Hope's wedding. Everyone is running around getting everything ready. Shawn and Belle are preparing for the duet they're going to sing. Or at least, they're trying to. They're both sitting at the piano and every couple minutes, they end up kissing, losing their place, and having to start all over. It just happened for the twelth time. Belle: Shawn, if I have to sing that first line one more time I'm going to scream. Shawn: Hey, it's not my fault you can't keep your hands off me. *Smiles* Belle:*Blushes* Well, I seem to recall you initiating a few of those breaks, saying that I look "so beautiful that you can't stand to look at me for more than a minute without kissing me." Shawn*Now blushing too*: Did I say that? Well, you're beauty must have made me lose my short term memory. The two lean in for another kiss. Belle does look beautiful in her floor length, powder blue bride's maid's gown, and Shawn looks incredibly gorgeous in his new tux. Belle: Ok Brady, if we don't stop this we're never going to be ready to sing for the wedding! I have to go fix my makeup, and then NO MORE BREAKS! Shawn: Not even one? Belle: Nope. Shawn: Well, how about one for the road. *he pulls her into a long, drawn out, passionate kiss* Have I told you how much I love you? Belle: Not in the last *looks at watch* thirty-seven seconds. *Giggles* I love you too Brady. They kiss once more and she runs off to fix her hair and makeup. When she comes back, they struggle, and finally make it through the song. Then they spend the rest of their preparation time making out, until Belle had to leave to RE-redo her makeup. Hope and Marlena are watching off at the side. (Hope is already wearing her beautiful, sleeveless, off-the-shoulder, floor-length, cream wedding gown and Marlena's matron of honor gown matches Belle's bride's maid gown) Hope: Ah, young love. Remember when we were like that with Bo and John? Marlena: What do you mean "remember when," you know as well as I do that our men still act the same way around us. Hope: Oh yeah, I must have forgotten. *smiles* Well, let's go find my fianc'ee (I'm not sure if i spelled that write) and get this show on the road. At this rate, the baby may arrive before the groom! They head off to find the rest of the wedding party. ~*Men's dressing room*~ Roman is helping Bo with his tie. Roman: My little brother is FINALLY getting re-married to the woman of his dreams. Bo: Yeah, I'm so glad I have my fancy face back in my life. I can't believe our luck with the baby being mine. John: Well, if you ask me, everything is as it was meant to be. Roman: I completely agree! Eric peeks his head in with Greta on his arm. Eric: Everybody decent? Guys: Yep. Eric: Good. *walks in with Greta on his arm* because we have an announcement. Everyone gathers around. Roman: Well? John: Yeah, come on, the suspense is killing us. Greta: Well, Bo, we hate to steal attention away from you on your special day. Eric: Lord knows we've all been waiting long enough for this day. Everyone mumbles agreements. Greta: But, we just couldn't wait to tell you all. Eric: Dad, John, Uncle Bo...Greta and I are getting married. Roman: WHAT? So soon? Bo: That's great news! When did you propose? John: Congratulations, when's the big day? Greta: Okay, one question at a time! Eric: Yeah, come on guys, give us a break. First of all, Dad, no it's not that soon. We've been dating for months and I love Greta more than I've ever loved anyone else in my entire life. *They kiss* Greta: And Bo, he proposed last night, at Tuscany's. Eric: Finally, John, we plan to give it some time, not rush into anything. The wedding is planned for December. That gives us 8 months. Everyone congratulates them and they run off to tell everyone else the good news. ~*Church*~ The big day has finally arrived. Bo and Hope's wedding. Everyone is at the church and tears come to their eyes as the hear Bo and Hope recite their original vows. Shawn and Belle sing their duet and the priest announces the Brady's "husband and wife." The long-awaited moment has finally come! Once everyone has arived at the Brady pub, Shawn toasts his parents and wishes them all the happiness and joy in the world. He hopes his new little sibling will know just how much their parents love each other. Just as he finishes his toast and everyone clinks their glasses, Hope goes into labor and everyone rushes to the hospital. The delivery goes off without a hitch. Lexie: Congratulations Hope, you have a new little baby girl! Hope: Aww. Bo, a little girl. Bo: I know sweety, what do you want to name her? Hope: Well, when Shawn was giving his toast, I got an idea. I want to name her Joy, since she has brought so much joy to our lives. Bo: It's perfect! Hope: Yes. Joy Alice Brady. Everyone rejoices as a tear comes to Alice's eyes. Alice: Well Tom, you did it. They're finally happy. Now I just hope you can bless Eric and Greta as well. Chapter 8 (Updated Apr. 24) It is now late November. Greta and Eric are finalizing plans for their wedding. Greta: Eric, I can't go through with this. Eric: What? Why not? Greta: Well Eric, I love you more than I've ever loved anyone else, but I can't get married when I still don't know who my father is. Eric: Then we'll find out. Do you have any clues? Greta: Well, from the things my mother told me, there are two possibilities. One of which would prevent us from getting married. The other would be awful too. Eric: Why? Who are the candidates? Greta: I don't know how to tell you this. You won't want to be anywhere near me once you know. Eric: Greta, I love you, nothing could ever keep us apart. *He kisses her* Eric: Now will you please tell me who, because it can't be worse than what I'm imagining. Greta: *Near tears* Well, the one is...Stefano Dimera. Eric*looks shocked*: Oh my god, that's horrible. *composes himself* But, that doesn't change how i feel about you. Greta: Okay, but...the other one is worse. Eric: Who is he? Greta: John Black, you're stepfather. Eric: But that would make us... Greta: step-siblings She breaks down and begins to cry uncontrollably. Eric comforts her with a look of unbearable shock on his face. Eric: I don't know what to hope for, but we will get through this. I love you Greta and that's all that matters. *Thinks to himself* Oh my god, how can this happen? Chapter 9 (Updated Apr. 25) ~*John's Loft*~ Greta and Eric have told John about the paternity problem and the possible options. John sat through this all in a kind of a daze. Eric: So, you can understand our predicament. John: Yes, it's just...how can this be possible? Haven't you two suffered enough in your lives? Greta: I don't know... I just don't understand how my mother could do this. She slept with two different men at the same time, not to mention the man that was SUPPOSED to be my father. Then, she didn't even bother to find out who my father was. OR tell either of them that they COULD be my father. How could she do this? *Begins to softly cry again* Eric*puts his arm around her*: It's okay honey. We'll get through this. (turns to John) So, you'll help us? John: Of course...It's just, I don't know what I should hope for - one way, you've got Stefano Dimera as a father, making him an in-law to the Brady family. The other way...(he trails off) Greta: The other way, I'm engaged to my stepbrother. *At this point she is inconsolable. She sobs as Eric tries his best to comfort her* John: Well, let's get to the hospital. The sooner we know... Eric: Yeah, we better go see Lexie. *They all pile into John's sports car and drive to the hospital. There, they meet up with Lexie, who directs them to the DNA lab, after hearing about their problem. She, as well, is completely shocked and rocked to the core at the thought that she might have a little sister. The trio arrives at the lab with Lexie in tow, impatient to find out if she is related to Greta. Greta and John have blood samples drawn and go to the waiting area to...well, wait. The lab technician comes out about an hour or so later, holding the results in his hand.* John: Well? What is it? Greta: Come on, I can't wait another second. Lab Tech: The tests show that Mr. Black is the father of this young lady. *Lexie is disappointed. Eric and Greta are crushed, though Greta is also somewhat relieved at the knowledge that she is not a Dimera. John is simply shocked at finding he has another child.* Eric: Are you sure? Are you absolutely sure? Lab Tech: These tests were entirely conclusive. John is Greta's father. *All faces in the room show complete shock. Greta, crying hysterically, runs down the hall. Both John and Eric get up to follow her, but Eric, realizing that Greta know had someone else in her life to help her through her trouble, sank back into the chair, overwhelmed by the results* Lexie: Eric, are you giong to be okay? Eric: How could I possibly be okay after this? How am I supposed to survive this? *He gets up and walks down to Marlena's office where he tells his mom the earth-shattering news* Marlena*sympathetically*: Oh, honey. *She wraps her arms around his neck and sits with him as he finally releases his pain and the tears begin to flow rapidly down his cheeks* ~*Lobby*~ Greta is in an even worse shape than Eric. She is just walking around in circles, bawling hysterically. She runs smack into Belle, who immediately knows that something is seriously wrong. Belle: Greta! Oh my god, what's wrong? What happened? *Greta, in between sobs, tells her newly discovered baby sister everything that happened. Belle is highly sympathetic, although completely shocked. As she comforts Greta, John comes around the corner* John: Greta, honey, it's okay-everything is going to be okay. *The three join in a group hug, with Belle and John trying desperately to console Greta* Greta*through tears*: Oh my god. What happens now? Chapter 10 (Updated Apr. 27) Shawn walks into the hospital and sees Belle, John, and Greta. He approaches them uneasily. Shawn: Uh, Belle? Belle: Oh, Shawn, I completely forgot. Shawn: Well, it's okay if you want to stay here. I can just come back later. Belle: Well...*looks at John and Greta* Greta: It's okay, go ahead. John: Yeah sweetie, I'll see you at home. Have fun! Belle: Alright, if you're sure. *To Shawn* Let me go tell my mom where I'm going. I'll be right back, alright? Shawn: Sure, don't worry about it. Take all the time you need. *Thinks*- Good, this way I can be sure everything is all set up for by the time we get there. Belle: Okay, I'll be right back. *gives Shawn a quick kiss and heads for Marlena's office* ~*Marlena's Office*~ Belle: Mom, I'm going out with Shawn, I'll be back around...*Sees Eric* Oh...I didn't mean to interrupt. Eric: No, it's okay Belle. Belle: Do you want to talk about it. Eric: No, I'll be fine. I have mom. You go ahead. Belle: Are you guys sure you don't need me? Marlena: Honey, we'll be fine. Just have fun and be back by 11:30. Belle gives her mom and her brother a hug and a kiss goodbye and heads out the door. ~*Lobby*~ Belle: Okay Shawn, let's go. *She walks over and gives her dad and Greta one last hug and starts to leave with Shawn. Turns back to her new sister* I'll see you tommorow Greta, and if you ever want to talk, I'm here for you. Greta: Thanks Belle. *Gives her a hug* You go have fun, okay. Belle: I'll try. *She leaves with Shawn* ~*Parking Lot*~ Shawn opens the door to the new car his grandparents (Doug and Julie) bought him for his birthday. Shawn: After you madame'. Belle: Thank you monsieur, but what is this, no motorcycle this time? Shawn: Haha. I learned my lesson about "borrowing" my dad's things. Of course, if we got locked up together, than that wouldn't be so bad. *he pulls her into a kiss, but notices that she seems distracted* What's wrong? Does it have something to do with why Greta was so upset? Belle: Yeah. It's really awful. Shawn: *concerned* Tell me what happened. Belle: Well, it all started way back in January when Gina was dieing in the hospital...*she tells Shawn the whole sordid story and he listens, astonished, as they drive down the road* Shawn: Wow, so Greta is your half-sister? What's so bad about that? Belle: Nothing, except...that makes her Eric's step-sister. Shawn: Oh my god, that's awful. What are they going to do? Belle: I don't know. They can't get married now, it would just be too weird. I wish I knew how to help them, since I'm related to BOTH of them now. Shawn: I'm sure you'll think of something. No one can stay upset when you're around. *he puts his arm around her and they share a long, intimate kiss, during which, Shawn swerves off the road* Belle: SHAWN! LOOK OUT! *Screeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeech! CRASH! SLAM! BANG! CRACK! HISS! Chapter 12 (Updated May 28) It had been a month now. One month, 3 days, 7 hours and 48 minutes since he last saw her smiling face, last looked into her sparkling blue eyes, last felt her soft, magical touch. One month, 3 days, 7 hours, and 48 minutes since the fateful accident that altered their lives forever. It had felt like eternity. Shawn would never forget the way he felt when Dr. Wesley came out of Belle's hospital room and first said those deafening words - "I'm afraid Belle is in a comatose state and...and...and we're not sure if she's going to wake up." It had felt like someone had thrust a knife into Shawn's fragile heart and twisted it around and around and around. That was the worst moment of his life - worse than anything in this whole Gina saga, worse than when Gina pulled a gun on him, worse than when he had thought his mother was dead. As wrong as it seemed, the fact that he might lose his one true love was worse than thinking he had lost his own mother. Nothing could compare to the pain he felt, and had felt for the next month. He still felt it now. Every day that he sat in that room, looking down at her face, every time he prayed that she would wake up - and she still didn't, every time he looked at her parents' faces, every time he thought about her, every time he cried ~ the pain grew worse and worse. He could barely stand it now. And still, the worst had not yet come. He couldn't believe it had only been a month. So much had changed. The world had continued without her bright, smiling face. When Greta found out that John was her father, she called off the wedding. Eric was destroyed. When he found her kissing Austin a few days later, he flipped out. He decked the guy and stormed out of the apartment. He told Sami about it, but she didn't seem to care as much as he did. She had secretly been in love with Brandon for quite some time then. Eric eventually went back to Nicole and the four of them (Sami and Brandon/ Eric and Nicole) were now happily planning their double wedding. Lexie and Abe were thrilled with their new baby boy, Joshua Micheal Carver (Marlo's baby was stillborn- ruining Stefano's plan, but Lexie and Abe found someone else to adopt from, on their own), and Abe had helped Larry Morris learn how to walk again. He even smoothed things over with Brandon - it's strange how tragedy brings people together. Even Lucas was happy now, he had found some spoiled rich girl and had fallen in love. He even agreed to let Sami have custody of Will when he found out Tiffany (his new wife) was pregnant. Sure, they were all upset about Belle's condition, but no one took it as hard as Shawn did. They all had their true loves to depend on, to help them through it. Shawn didn't have that. The only girl he ever loved was lying unconcious in a hospital bed, fighting for her life, and it was all his fault. He knew it was. No matter what anyone tried to say to him, he knew in his heart that if he had been paying attention to the road and watching where he was going, Belle would still be alright. They would be happy too. They'd be excitedly planning their summer vacation, arranging it so they were always together. Oh how Shawn wished they could be doing that now. How he wished that she would still be alive through the summer. But he couldn't bring himself to consider that possibility - God would not be so cruel to him. They had already been through far too much. He spoke aloud for the first time in hours, with tears in his eyes and pain in his voice. Shawn: Belle, if anything happens to you, I won't be able to go on without you. I can't bear to live a life without you in it. So here is the deal, do you hear me? If you go, I go with you. You can't leave me here alone and I won't even try to survive without you. We belong together, and we'll be together, one way or another. As he finished Lexie entered the room. She looked very upset and it was clear that she had been crying. Shawn alerted to that immediately and worriedly stood up. Shawn: Dr. Carver, what is it? What's wrong? Lexie: *takes a deep breath* Shawn, her condition has worsened. We don't think... Shawn: NO! Lexie: I'm so sorry. We don't think she is going to make it through the night. Shawn: *sobbing uncontrollably* NO! God don't do this! It's all my fault, it's all my fault. I can't lose her, I just can't. Lexie: *gives him a comforting hug* I'll leave you two alone now. Chapter 13 (Updated May 28) Shawn tried desperately to gain his composure, but it was all in vain. He decided he had to say goodbye to her, he had to let her know just how he felt before it was too late - before he lost his chance. Shawn: Belle, I love you more than life itself. I can't live without you. Please, please don't go. The only response is the beeping of the heart monitor. Shawn: I can't find the words to tell you how I feel. So, I think I'll just sing to you. You always loved my singing. I always loved you. I always will. So this one is just for you. He pulls out a small tapeplayer and turns it on. "One Sweet Day" begins to play and Shawn softly sings to the music. (Some words altered to fit the situation) Shawn: Sorry I never told you all I wanted to say. And now it's too late to hold you 'cause you've flown away, so far away. Never had I imagined living without your smile. Feeling and knowing your near me it keeps me alive, alive. And I know you will shine down on me from heaven like so many friends we've lost along the way. And I know eventually we'll be together One sweet day Darling I never showed you assumed you'd always be there. I...I took your presence for granted but I always cared and I'll miss the love we shared. And I know you will shine down on me from heaven like so many friends we've lost along the way. And I know eventually we'll be together One sweet day. Although the sun will never shine the same I'll always look to a brighter day Lord, I know when I lay me down to sleep you will always listen as I pray. And I know you will shine down on me from heaven like so many friends we've lost along the way. And I know eventually we'll be together One sweet day. And I know you will shine down on me from heaven like so many friends we've lost along the way. And I know eventually we'll be together One sweet day. Sorry I never told you all I wanted to say. As he finishes the song, Shawn begins to cry again. Tears flow freely down his face as he looks at his Perfect love. He puts his head in his lap. Shawn: I love you so much Perfect Girl. Unbeknownst to Shawn, Belle's eyes begin to flutter. She slowly lifts her head up and places her hand on the back of Shawn's neck. Belle: *weakly* I love you too Tough Boy. Chapter 14 (Updated May 28) Shawn: BELLE!! Oh thank you lord! Thank you so much! Belle, I have missed you so much. I love you so much. *he cries tears of joy as he embraces his love and she kisses him softly on the lips* Belle: I know. I love you too. *they hug again as Marlena and John enter the room with tear-stained faces, having just heard that Belle was dying. When they see their daughter, they look shocked and then thrilled, they run up to the two and embrace them both.* Marlena: God has brought you back to us. John: Oh, my little Izzy. I love you. Belle: I love you too daddy. You too mom. Marlena: I love you sweetie. Shawn: Hey! Doesn't anybody love me? *teasing*' Belle: I do! *kisses him passionately* John: We better go let everyone know that you're okay. Marlena: You call everyone, I'll go get Lexie. John: Alright. *to Belle* We love you sweetie, don't you ever forget that, and don't you ever scare us like that again! Belle: *giggles* I won't, I promise. *she hugs her parents and then they exit the room to let everyone know that Belle is awake* Shawn: I'm so glad you're okay. Belle: I know, I could hear you. I heard everything you said. I love you just as much. I remember when you fell off that ledge on New Years Eve, I was so worried that you wouldn't be okay. I cried so much. Shawn: But, I am okay, and so are you. We're going to be together forever and nothing will ever separate us. Belle: I hope so. Chapter 15 (Updated May 28) *Shawn lovingly kisses Belle again as everyone begins to file into the room. They all hug her and kiss her and there are a lot of happy tears. When the joyful reunion is finished, they fill her in on everything that she's missed over the last month.* Eric: So, that's about it. What do you think? Belle: As long as you guys are happy, I'm happy too. Greta: Oh, I'm so glad you're not mad at any of us. Belle: I could never be mad at you guys. *Belle, Eric, Sami, and Greta hug* Sami: Well that's good, because Eric, Brandon, Nicole and I have something to ask you. Belle: What is it. Nicole: Well sweetie, you know we're all getting married in a few weeks. Brandon: And well, we were wondering if... Sami: If you'd like to be the maid of honor. Eric: It would mean a lot to us - we all love you. Belle: I'd be honored. Is everyone else going to be in the wedding? Sami: Yup. Carrie, Greta, Hope, Mom, Alice, Lexy, and Grandma Caroline are going to be brides maids. Eric: And Mike, Brady, Austin, John, Abe, Grandpa Shawn and Bo are going to be groomsmen. Nicole: Roman is going to give Sami away and my mom is giving me away. Brandon: Shawn and Larry are going to be our best men. Sami: Will is going to be ring bearer. Eric: And little Joy is going to be the flower girl. (Ch. 7 - Bo and Hope's daughter). Nicole: We know this wedding is going to go perfectly, because there isn't anyone that wants to hurt any of us anymore. We've all worked things out. Brandon: Except that Di'mera character. Sami: Well yeah, but he is in a maximum security federal prison since Hope regained those memories of being brainwashed. Bo: This time there's no way that b*****d can escape. John: That's for sure. They've got 30 armed guards surrounding his door alone. Lexie: I just can't believe I was so wrong about my father. Abe: It's not your fault honey. No one wants to see their parent as evil. Hope: Hey, hey. Let's stay on happier topics, can we? Marlena: I agree. Belle: I'm just so glad that eveything worked out so well for eveyone. *yawns* Shawn: Okay, you guys all get out of here. I think my Belle needs her sleep. Belle: Your Belle?? What am I, a cell phone? *teasing* *everyone laughs* Shawn: Yeah, yeah, yeah. You're awake an hour and you're already getting all feminist on me. Belle: Well if you weren't such a chauvinistic -- *Shawn cuts her off by kissing her* Alice: Why don't we leave these two alone for a while. Caroline: Good idea. Shawn Sr.: Bye sweetie. Carrie: See you tommorow sis. Brady: We love you. Roman: Feel better soon, alright honey? Marlena: Ok, sweetness, we're going to go now. John: We'll be back later Izzy. Bo: Bye kids. Hope: Okay everybody, I think we spent more time saying goodbye then we did talking. Lexie: I agree. Belle needs her rest. Let's all go. Abe: Come on sweetie. *they all file out leaving only Shawn and Belle behind* Belle: I never knew that many people could fit in one hospital room. Shawn:*laughs* You should have been up earlier, Chloe, Phillip, Jan, Jason, and Mimi had all squeezed in here too during the last visiting hour. Belle: How come you're allowed to stay when everyone else has to leave? Shawn: Because Chloe, Lexie, and I convinced Dr. Wesley that it was better for your condition to have me by your side. Belle: It is, is it? Shawn: Of course. How else would you get your daily dose of medication? *kisses her three times* 3 kisses at a time, 200 times a day. Belle: *smiles* I could get used to that. *leans up and kisses him again* I love you tough boy. Shawn: I love you too perfect girl. Epilogue The wedding went wonderfully. Everything was beautiful and everyone was happy. 9 months later, Sami gave birth to Will's little sister, Faith Lynn Walker, and a month after that, Nicole and Eric brought Thomas William Brady into the world. Stefano Di'mera escaped from prison, but only once. When he attempted to kidnap Belle in hopes of getting Marlena "back" (as if he had ever had her), Shawn (Jr.) shot him in the chest. He died (for real) in the hospital after begging for everyone's forgiveness for his sins. Lexie forgave him for everything and took his death hard, but soon forgot about her pain when she brought her very own little girl into the world soon after. Lorri Ann Carver was a healthy beautiful baby girl. Hope and Bo had a wonderful life without fear of Stefano. They raised little Joy well and when she decided to join the police force, her parents were very proud. Melissa Elizabeth Brady was born a year after Joy and she grew up to be a successful chef (Mrs. Horton taught her everything she knew). John and Marlena also brought a new child into the world, but Megan Helene Black came a few years later than the others. Marlena was 41 when she gave birth to her miracle baby and they both almost died in the delivery. As for Isabelle Black and Shawn Douglas Brady, Shawn proposed to Belle right after Graduation and they both went off to Salem U together. They got married right after they graduated and it was the biggest wedding Salem had ever seen. Everyone was thrilled that Shawn and Belle were finally united. At the wedding, Alice had said that now she could die happy, knowing that her family was safe and together. And, 2 weeks later she did. Everyone was heartbroken over the loss of their beloved Gran, but they knew she was with her own true love now, and that eased their pain. Shawn and Belle moved into a beautiful penthouse apartment where they raised their new addition, Jonathan Beuragard Brady (named after John and Bo) for a few years. But, by the time the twins, Jospehine Caroline Brady and Andrea Alicia Brady (named in part after they're great-grandma and great-great-grandma) were born, the family was living in a beautiful five-bedroom home, right near Hope and Bo's house. John and Marlena moved in to help take care of the kids while Shawn and Belle were at work, Belle was a psychiatrist and Shawn was a Salem PD detective. They're parents were thrilled that they had chosen to follow in their footsteps. They had minor setbacks in their lives - Shawn was arrested for shooting Stefano before it was ruled as self-defense and Belle was kidnapped by Elvis Di'mera once, but they always made it through their hardships. Everyone said they were the perfect couple and they lived a long, happy life together. They always wanted to make everyone else just as happy as they were, and they suceeded in fixing up Brady and Abby, Phillip and Chloe, and Mimi with a new kid named James. The four couples stayed friends forever, even after Chloe and Phillip moved to New York for Chloe's opera career. Everyone in Salem lived happily ever after, with no Stefano Di'mera to worry about. The End!