Episode 3.08

Janet, Steve and Kelly by Shari,
Donna, David, Brenda by Heather,
Brandon, Dylan and Gina by DC, Clare and Jake by Blanca, Carly And Lexi by Val, Valerie by Jessica

Lexi

At Whilshire Memorial

Lexi was still in the hospital and it had been a week since Michael and her kissed. She couldn't get it off her mind. She also was trying to decide whether to press charges...she didn't want something else to happen to her or anyone else. The police told her they needed an answer when she leaves the hospital.

Just then Michael walked in. "Good morning." He had a breakfast tray in his hands and placed it on her lap.

She wrinkled her nose. "Well, I'll never miss this."

He smiled. "Thanks, you know the hospital chefs work hard here."

"Could've fooled me."

"Same with everyone else around here. So how are you feeling?"

"Better actually. Doctor Bell said I should be out of here soon."

"That's great. I'll have to take you out to dinner."

"I'd like that. But first I have to decide if I'm going to press charges."

"Of course, you have to, Lexi! Do you want that guy raping someone else or, worse, you, and being successful this time?"

She loved how he protected her all the time, and she missed it. She was silent.

"I'm sorry to jump out like that. It's just my opinion."

"Well, I'll be sure to remember it."

"Okay." He looked down. "So I was wondering...is everything okay between us?"

"Yeah I guess so....Things have just been a little awkward lately."

"You mean since I kissed you?" he said catching on.

"Yeah."

"Well if you want me to back off, then just say the word."

She smiled seductively. "No...I kinda like it this way. Maybe we can start something that we'll finish."

"Maybe..."

Carly

At Melrose Place

Zach woke up, glad that school was over. It was the average Saturday morning, and Zach was about to call Mark. He picked up the phone and dialed his cell phone number.

"Hello?"

"Hey, it's Zach."

"Good morning. How are you?"

"Good. My mom told me to call you this morning because she wanted all of us to go out to dinner," Zach lied. "So we need you to pick her up from school, CU, around 8."

"Are you sure?"

"I'm positive," Zach lied again. He had to. He really wanted to get his mom and Mark back together.

Mark smiled. Maybe she would forgive him. "Ok, I'll be there at 8."

"Okay, bye."

"And Zach?"

"Yeah?"

"See you then."

"Ok bye."

They hung up together and Zach began to get dressed; he had a big day ahead of him.

David

David tried to read the paper but it was hard with all the giggling coming from Brandon and Kelly's room. He was glad they were happy and all but he really didn't care to listen to it.

He gathered his things and headed to The Beat early. Maybe he could get some work done before anyone else arrived. He loved working with his friends but they were certainly distracting at times.

Like just the other week when he had been trying to finish an article. Janet had been sitting at her desk putting the finishing touches on an article she had wrote while Steve stood behind her rubbing her shoulders. They acted as if he hadn't even been in the room.

"Janet, have I told you today that I love you?" Steve had exclaimed when he finished reading the article. "That article is terrific!"

Janet smiled at her husband, "Thanks honey. I love you too."

How could anyone be expected to work with that going on around him? He hoped he had never acted like that with Donna but he feared that he probably had. He wasn't quite ready to admit it to himself just how much he missed it.

Brenda

At Melrose Place

Brenda swam back and forth through the water, doing laps, exercising and working off some stress. She didn't know why more people didn't use the pool at Melrose, it had to be the apartment complex's best feature. She had missed sunny California, swimming pools, warm weather, while she was in London.

Brenda pullled herself out of the water and dripped over the the lounge chair next to pool. She grabbed a towel and wrapped it around herself. She crossed the courtyard making her way to Noah's apartment. She let herself in and found that he was still in bed.

Brenda dropped her towel and crawled into bed with him. Her cold, wet body instantly woke him up.

"Brenda! What are you doing?" he asked, trying to pull away from the coldness.

She quickly reached out, grabbed his arm and pulled him toward her. "Where do you think you're going?"

"I was trying to sleep," Noah replied grumpily.

Brenda pulled him in for a long kiss. "It's morning."

Noah kissed her back, "Looks like it may be a good morning, too!"

Brenda giggled and gave him a big hug. "Noah Hunter, I am crazy about you."

Noah rolled on top of her and looked down at her face, "Yea, well, I'm pretty crazy about you too."

Clare

At the Beverly Royale Hotel

Clare woke up still thinking about Jake. She kept wondering why he hadn't told her about Colleen in the first place. She would have understood. She looked over to her side and saw that it was 8:30 am. Her eyes shifted right above the clock to see Jake's picture in a picture frame.

She noticed that as soon as she started thinking about him, she got depressed so she stretched over and flipped the picture frame downwards. She got out of bed and decided that she couldn't stay in the hotel room with all of her memories of Jake so she thought it would be best to go out and maybe do some shopping.

Kelly

At Melrose Place

"Hi Mr. Lemme. It's me, Kelly Talor, again," Kelly said into the phone, "I just wanted to make sure you got my previous mesages. Give me a call."

Brandon awoke groggily as Kelly hung up the phone, "Who was that?" he asked.

"Mr. Lemme."

Brandon sighed, "What is that, the 100th message you've left him a message in the last week? Give those pretty fingers a rest already," he said pulling Kelly closer to him.

"I know, just I really need this job. I can't afford to close my office."

"You won't have to!" Brandon said, trying to give her confidence.

"I wish I could believe you without thinking like I've already failed."

Brandon pulled Kelly into a hug, and Kelly's feelings just came pouring out, along with some tears, "I don't know what went wrong. I was so successful at first. I don't even know if I can afford to keep paying Megan."

"Don't worry, we'll figure something out, I promise," he said kissing her forehead, "I promise."

Valerie

At the Beach Apartment

Val could hear ringing in her ears as she slowly opened her eyes late that morning. It took her a minute to realize that the ringing she was hearing was actually her telephone.

"Hello..." she groggily said.

"Good morning Ms. Malone. This is Detective Sims, from the police station."

"Oh, not you again. What is it this time?"

"I'd like you to stop by later today if that's possible. I need a few more words with you."

"I bet. But no. I'm busy."

"Listen, we can do this my way or the hard way. Take your pick," he said, getting annoyed with the games Val was trying to pull.

"Alright. I'll stop by your office sometime this afternoon."

"I'll see you then. Have a good day," he replied as they hung up.

Since she was up so early, she decided she might as well take advantage of the extra hours she had. She walked into the living room and was greeted by numerous beer cans all over the place. She had no idea what went on here last night, but she knew they were not alone.

Her theory proved to be right when Ginger walked out of her room escorted by two men.

"Call me," she called out to them as they exited the apartment.

"I don't want to know," Valerie said as soon as Ginger opened her mouth.

Steve

At Casa Walsh

"Alright, everything's set," Steve said to Janet, walking into Maddy's room.

"Great," Janet said while dressing Maddy. "They'll be here at 7, right?"

Steve nodded, "Yep...so what are you going to serve?"

"Not sure. I have to go to the grocery store...any suggestions?"

"Steak..Rush likes it rare."

"Ooh, bad choice. My father's not big on steak."

"Alright, well whatever you pick up, I'm sure will be fine," he said, leaning in and kissing her. "I was thinking...maybe it would be better if we invited some friends to come to dinner too?"

"Friends?" Janet asked.

"You know, like Brandon, Kelly...just to play it safe. I don't know what their reaction's going to be once we tell them we're going to be foster parents. All I need is another argument, and I can guarantee it that my mom's lesbianism will come up, I just know it--"

"Steve, calm down! Everything will be fine. What's with you and all these nervous feelings lately?"

"I don't know..." he said, sitting down in the rocking chair, "I just want us...you to be happy."

"Steve, I am. We are. I gotta get to the store though. I'll see you in a few?" she asked, heading out of the room with Maddy in her arms.

"Yeah..."

"Oh, and can you pick up so red wine at the liquor store?"

"Sure," Steve said with a smile as Janet and Maddy left the room. Once they were gone, "Rush hates red wine," he mumbled grumpily.

Donna

At Whilshire Memorial

Donna walked uncertainly through the hospital carrying a bouquet of flowers. She stopped outside the door and took a deep breath before entering. Lexi looked up from the TV as she entered.

"Donna? Come on in." Lexi snapped the TV off with the remote and set it down beside her.

Donna set the flowers down by some others. "Hi Lexi. I wanted to come by and tell you that I am glad that you are feelling better. Michael told me that you'll be gong home soon."

Lexi made a face, "Oh, he did, did he? And what else did Michael tell you?"

Donna smiled, "Michael told me how worried he's been about you, how relieved he is that you are okay, and how much he cares for you."

Lexi broke out into a big smile, "Oh, he did, did he?!?"

"Yea, that's pretty much what he said. I know we don't know each other very well but I'm really glad that you're okay," Donna explained sincerely.

Lexi nodded, "Thanks Donna, that's really nice of you to think of me."

"Well, you are one of my best customers!" Donna said, teasing.

Lexi had to laugh at that one. It felt good to laugh again.

Both Lexi and Donna were still laughing together when Michael walked in. He wasn't entirely surprised to see Donna there. He had come to know what a caring person she was. She had really listened when he had spilled out about his feelings about Lexi and in turn he had listened to her talk about David. They both realized that there was no future for the two of them besides one of friendship.

Clare

At 7250

Clare parked her car in the 7250 parking lot and got out. She walked over to the coffee shop and bought herself a newspaper and some coffee and sat down on one of the tables. She noticed that the woman in the table next to her kept looking at her but she thought nothing of it and let it go. Then the woman got up and walked over to her.

"Are you Clare Arnold?" she said in a rude tone.

"Yeah...who are you?" Clare said getting up. She wasn't about to let this women be rude to her.

"Well....I FINALLY get to meet the famous Clare Arnold," she said looking her up and down.

"Excuse me?"

"You have no idea who I am do you?"

"No."

"Well then maybe I should tell you."

"Maybe you should," Clare said getting mad. Here stood a person, who she didn't even know, being rude to her, she wasn't going to let her have her way.

"My name is Colleen, I think you've heard a little about me."

"What do you want?!"

"Don't get yourself all worked up...I am only here to tell you something I'm sure you already know."

Clare just stood there in silence waiting for her to conitnue. "Jake and I are meant to be together. Whether you want to believe it or not, it's the truth. You're just a distraction... HIS distraction."

"Oh really? And why would he need a distraction?"

"He knows that him and I are meant to be together...so to stop himself from thinking about ME and OUR love, he needs you."

David

At the After Dark

David walked into the After Dark. He loved it in there this time of day. Not yet open for business, no one around except Noah stocking the coolers. David thought maybe he and Noah could get in a game of pool. He walked over to the bar and saw Brenda sitting there talking to Noah while he worked.

"Hey David," Brenda said when she saw him.

"Hi," David replied gloomily.

Noah looked over from the back bar. "Whats up, man?"

David shook his head, "Nothing. I just needed to get something from the booth."

Brenda and Noah nodded and watched him walk away. When he was out of earshot, Brenda asked, "What's his problem?"

Noah shrugged, "Hard telling. He's always moody like that lately." Brenda had to agree.

Lexi

At Whilshie Memorial

Megan came to visit Lexi not too long after both Michael and Donna left. "Hey there. Feeling better?"

"Yeah. So did you take care of the rent for me like I asked?"

Megan laughed. "Lexi, honey, relax, of course I did."

"Okay, who's overdue?"

"No one."

"Okay, thanks Megan."

"Lexi, I wanted to talk to you about something." She sat down in the chair besides Lexi's bed and got a serious look on her face.

"Yes?"

"Well...when you were in the coma," she said as she shifted uncomfortably in her chair. "Michael was a little overprotective. They had another doctor take over...he was too emotional of the patient." She went on. "He wouldn't let anyone touch you, unless he knew what they were doing was okay."

Lexi was a little shocked. "Do you think something's going on?"

"Yeah, I think he's in love with you. If you call that something."

Lexi smiled. "Really?"

"Really."

"Thats...."

"Can't find the word? That's the way love is."

"If you call what we have love," Lexi said.

"Yeah I do. I really do."

Clare

Clare knocked on Jake's door loudly and waited for him to open it.

"Clare." Clare walked inside angrily.

"Is something wrong?" Jake asked stupidly.

"Now I got the pleasure of talking to your wife."

"What?"

"Colleen!"

"What happened?"

"She comes up to me and starts telling me off! She said I am just a distraction for you so you won't think of HER! Look, either you go and do something about her or I will!" She stormed out of the room and slammed the door shut.

Valerie

At the Beach Apartment

"Okay, now as I was saying..."Ginger went on. She was telling a story about something Valerie wasn't particulary interested in so she decided to just tune her voice out. She was getting good at that.

They were in Val's car driving downtown to grab a bite to eat. Ginger was at the wheel.

"Oh my God, pull over!" Val suddenly yelled as she spotted Clint's beat up car. Ginger pulled into a parking lot.

"What?" Ginger asked looking at Val as if she were crazy. Val was already out of the car.

"Hey!! Tell me whats going on," Ginger said, trying to catch up with her. Valerie led her into a run down, smoky, and somewhat deserted bar.

"A little early in the day to begin our drinking, don't you agree?" Ginger said.

"See that man over there?" Val asked, pointing towards Clint who was playing a game of pool in the back.

"Yeah. Pretty cute."

"Only if you have a thing for compulsive liars."

"Come again?"

"He accused me of prostitution. He's the reason I have a meeting at the police station in a while."

"Well, did you?"

"Did I what?

"Sleep with that guy for money!"

"NO!!! Of course not!"

"Just checking. So, why would he pick you out of all the girls in Beverly Hills to frame?"

"I have no idea. But we need to do something...and fast!! I'm not going to jail for something I didn't even do."

"I'll take care of him, you wait here," Ginger said as she walked away.

"Ginger!! Wait, what are you going to do?" Val called out.

Ginger didn't answer, she just kept walking towards Clint. Since she figured this was going to get interesting, Val decided to pull up a chair and watch. This better be good and work! she thought to herself.

David

David pulled up to Jennifer's apartment building, wondering if she was home. Maybe she was what he needed to cheer up. He walked to her door and knocked. A few minutes later, she answered.

"David, hi. Come in," Jen said, pulling him in the door. David entered the apartment and looked around. He had never actually been inside her apartment. The place could use a good cleaning he noticed.

"Can I get you something to drink?" Jennifer asked, interrupting his thoughts.

"Yea, a beer if you got it," David told her. Jen walked to the fridge and got him a beverage. She handed it to him and then sat on the couch.

"Hey, come sit next to me. Relax and tell me why you're here. Were you missing me?" Jen asked seductively.

David took the seat next to her but didn't relax. He sat on the edge of his seat and took a swallow from his beer. Jen manuvered her way so she was sitting directly behind him.

"David, why are you so tense?" she asked as she reached up and began rubbing his shoulders. A picture of Janet and Steve flashed through David's mind and he jerked away. Janet and Steve had a great marriage. Why couldn't he and Donna have one too?

Jen looked up at him, concerned. "Whats the matter? Did I do something wrong?"

David shook his head. "It's not you. It's me."

"I've heard that one before. Of course, I'm usually the one saying it," Jennifer laughed. She reached up and grasped his face with her hands. "David, what is it? Talk to me."

"I don't think we should see each other anymore." The words surprised David as much as it surprised Jen.

"I thought we had a good thing going here. I really like you David," Jen told him.

David shook his head, "But is that enough for you...to like me? Don't you want to be in love?"

Jen shrugged, "I don't know. Maybe. Maybe I do love you."

David shook his head and stood up, "No you don't. And I don't love you. What we've been doing is wrong."

"Is this about your wife?" Jen asked.

David headed toward the door. "This has nothing to do with Donna. I'm sorry Jennifer." He walked out the door and pulled it shut behind him.

Jennifer just smiled a knowing smile as he walked out the door.

Kelly

At KTPR

Kelly unlocked the door to her office. There was a faint smell of old coffee in the office air. The reason being was that a coffee filter from the previous week was still in the machine. "Yuck," Kel thought to herself as she threw the filter away.

Afterwards, she proceeded to check her messages. Most of them were people saying that they'd pay her soon or she owed them money and so on. Except for one. One message was different. And that's because it was from Mr. Lemme.

"Ms. Taylor, Jack Lemme here. Sorry I missed your previous fifty messages [laughs], but who's counting, right? My partner and I have decided to hire you as our publicist. Although there is a condition. We would strongly prefer it if no background research was done on our miracle drug. We assure you that it is safe, etc. All we want you to do is market it, handle the publicity, basically do your job. We'll be in touch. Remember: NO RESEARCH. Have a good day."

Mr. Lemme's voice became stern towards the end. "No Research" echoed in her head over and over. What was she going to do? How could she go against everything she believed in and not research this drug?

Jake

"So we packed our things and Allison and I moved to Ojai. We opened a restuarant-diner like place. Not long after Colleen showed up with David. Her and her husband her had divorced, Allison got jealous and dumped me. Colleen and I then got back together and I got the parental rights to David back."

Jake was at a lawyer's office. He finally decided to file for divorce. Before he officially did, he explained to the lawyer his life with Colleen and what had happened.

"We were there for a while, happily. Business was great and we were in love. Colleen was constantly talking of marriage, saying that David needed a dad, a permanent dad again, and so I married her. That's when the problems began. Now that I was legally binded to her, she slowly started showing a different side. She began getting irrational and demanding, always wanting nothing but the best. I couldn't take it. She was smothering me. I had to get away. And so I packed my things and left. I did some travelling and ended up in New York which is when I ran into my friend who lives in LA. I went back to LA with him, fell in love with one of his friends, and now it's 4 months later and Colleen showed up."

"Why did she say she came here?" the lawyer asked.

"She said she heard I was in LA and wanted me to come home. She says she loves me. I don't love her. Which is why I want to sue for divorce."

Janet

Janet was pushing a wagon, with Maddy strapped in, throughout the grocery store. "What should I make? What should I make?" Janet kept thinking to herself. She continued to push the wagon, moving her head sideways to everything she saw. She looked down at the list she made, naming the courses she was going to make.

Appetizer
Salad
Main Course
Coffee and Dessert

At least everyone ate salad. But what about the rest of the courses? She desperately turned to Maddy for help, "Okay, Maddy, what should I make for dinner?"

"Cheese," Maddy replied in her cute, squeaky, child-like voice.

"Nope. Can't have that. What else?"

"Cheese."

"Maddy, Grandpa Sosna is allergic to cheese," Janet said, "Like everything else," she mumbled under her breath.

"Excuse me," a lady said to Janet, "I couldn't help but overhear your dilemma. Let me guess, you're having both sets of parents over?" the pudgy lady said with a Southern accent.

"Yes, how'd you know?"

Ah, honey, It's the same with every family!" the woman laughed, "I have the perfect thing for you to make," she said, picking up a packaged chicken, "Here."

Janet took the chicked and held it in her hands, "Chicken?"

"You bet your bottom dollar! When in doubt, make a chicken! Just add some rosemary, garlic, season salt, some Mrs. Dash, and a drop of salt," she said using her fingers to name the additions. "Everyone will love it, trust me."

"Wow, thanks," Janet said, amazed by the woman's helpfullness and chipper attitude.

"Now I best be on my way," she smiled and pushed her wagon along. "Nice talking to ya," she called out from down the aisle she turned in.

"Now all I need is some appetizers, two side dishes, and something for dessert," Janet said aloud to no one in particular.

"Crackers, hummus, dip...roasted potatoes, vegetables...strawberry shortcake," the Southern lady's voice yelled out.

Janet looked around but didn't see her, "Amazing..."

Lexi

At Whilshire Hospital

Lexi lay in her bed thinking of what to do about pressing charges. She couldn't help but think if she pressed charges and she lost, that he would come after her again. She knew they would catch him if he did, but what if that was too late for her? What if she was dead already?

She doubted herself for a while...a long time actually. She needed to make a decision and she needed to make it quick.

Jake

"Sounds to me like you have this case won, Mr. Hanson," his lawyer said.

"Good," Jake replied.

"But there is still one more thing. And it's very important that you think very hard about this before you give me an answer."

"Okay, what is it?"

"Well you told me that you have a son with Colleen... David right?"

"Yeah. What about him?"

"Are you willing to accept all of the responsibilities as parent has and file for custody too?"

Jake thought a moment before answering. "I never really thought about it."

"I suggest you do think about it and get back to me as soon as possible."

Donna

At Now Wear This

Donna was working on some sketches in Now Wear This when Gina knocked at the office door. She stuck her head in, "There's someone here to see you."

Donna looked up expectantly. She was surprised and angry when Jennifer Mancini walked into her office.

Jen smiled at her, "I don't think we've ever really been introduced..."

"Cut the crap, I know who you are. What do you want?" Donna said rudely.

Jen's eyes got big but she recovered quickly. "Well, it seems that we're in the awkward position of being in love with the same man."

Donna just stared at her, "What do you want?"

"It's a new feeling for me. I've never really been in love before. I don't know that I care for it all too much. Putting someone else's feelings in front of your own. Well, you know what I'm talking about," Jen continued.

"Actually, I'm just wondering if you have a point."

Jen smiled, "My point is that if I didn't care for David, I wouldn't be here. He was at my house a while ago. He told me that he didn't want to see me anymore."

Donna's heart raced when she heard those words.

"I know why he told me that."

"Why is that?" Donna asked.

"Because he loves you, silly. See, if I didn't care for him, I would just let him keep trying to figure it out. But I think you need to help him. Donna, go to him, I think he's ready to listen to what you have to say," Jen reached out and patted Donna on the hand.

Donna couldn't believe that she was hearing these words from her of all people. She tried to be angry but Jennifer looked so sincere, she couldn't help but smile.

"Good luck Donna," Jen said as she started to walk out. She stopped and took a long last look at Donna. "I don't say this very often either, but I'm sorry." She turned and walked out the door.

Carly

At the Peach Pit

"Nat, table 6, we need three MegaBurgers."

"Coming right up!"

Carly was at work at the Peach Pit. Zach and Daniel were in the back playing with a GameBoy.

Carly walked into the back. "So guys how's it going?"

"Good," Zach replied.

"Okay, well I have to get back to work, I'll check up on you two in a few minutes."

Carly walked back out and began to start serving the orders. The Peach Pit was packed when Clare walked in.

Carly," Clare said to Carly who was balancing two trays.

"Uhh, hey Clare, one sec." She placed the tray on the table and served the food. She picked up both trays and went to another table. When she was finally done serving, she went behind the counter. "Do you want anything?"

"A slice of peach pie...a la mode"

"Okay."

"Make that a double."

Carly looked at her strangely. "What's wrong?"

"This whole thing with Colleen and Jake."

Carly realized she had been so wrapped up in Mark that she had forgotten about her friends. For the rest of that hour Clare told Carly exactly what had been going on with her and Jake.

Valerie

Valerie was getting annoyed now. Clint and Ginger had went into a back room well over an hour ago and neither of them had returned. She was dying to know how Ginger planned to shut Clint up, but of course, she couldn't see or hear them. Finally she decided it was getting pathetic.

She left the bar area and walked down a small hallway, just as Clint and Ginger had done a while ago. She came to the room she assumed they were in and put her ear to the door.

She heard Clint moan, painfully, as she heard something go crashing down. She could also hear Ginger's wicked laugh.

Suddenly the door burst open, almost causing Val to trip. Lucky for her, she caught her balance before it was too late.

"Come on, we gotta get out of here," Ginger said quickly as she grabbed Val's arm and pulled her along.

"Wait, what happened?"

"Don't ask questions, just come on!" she hissed. Valerie knew something was wrong, Ginger never acted like this.

When they were safely in the car and out of the parking lot, Ginger started talking.

"What happened in there was an accident and a mistake. Leave it at that. But don't worry, the cops won't question you any longer. Trust me."

"That's what I'm afraid of...trusting you."

"Yeah, well if it wasn't for me you'd still have the cops on your back so be thankful I'm here."

"Good point," said Val thoughtfully. "I'm sorry, I'm just preoccupied."

"It happens. Now come on, let's go down to that police station and clear this up once and for all."

David

At Dylan's Place

David was going crazy. He was so confused and had so many thoughts running through his head. In the past, this was the way he always felt right before he would use drugs. Anything to make the confusion stop. He knew of one person who could and would always help him when he felt like this.

"David," Dylan answered the door. He greeted him as if David always showed up there. "How are you, man?"

"Not too good," David replied simply. Dylan didn't say a word but opened his front door further, silently inviting David in.

"Do you remember what you told me in New York, when we were at the Metropolian?" David started.

Dylan nodded, choosing his words carefully. "I think I told you about forgiveness and about how short life really is. You don't want to waste one single day. Believe me, I know."

"You know, I don't think I fully understood what you were trying to tell me that day until recently. Maybe not even until just this moment."

"Sometimes, that's the way it happens. Life sends us messages in strange ways, my friend. The question is what are you going to do about it?"

David stared long and hard at the wall in front of him. "That's what I've been trying to figure out."

"I think the answer is right in front of you," Dylan started when the phone rang. "Hold on a minute."

David nodded as Dylan walked out of the room. His eye focused on a picture sitting on the bookshelf in front of him. He walked over and picked it up. Toni. Man, she was beautiful. It was their wedding day, the first and last day of their marriage. Tears came to his eyes. What was he doing pushing away love when he had been lucky enough to find it? So Donna had made a mistake. God knew she had forgiven him more than his fair share of mistakes. David sighed. He suddenly knew what he had to do.

He didn't even wait to say goodbye to Dylan. He took off out the door and ran to his car.

Donna

Not long after Jen left Now Wear This, Donna gathered her things. This had gone on long enough between her and David. She couldn't go on like this anymore, either they decided to try to work things out or they go ahead and discuss divorce. Donna couldn't bear to even consider that possibility. She just held on to the hope that Jennifer had given her.

Gina agreed to watch the store. Donna didn't stop to explain where she was going but somehow Gina knew. She gave Donna a hug.

"Good luck, honey. You two deserve each other and you deserve to be happy." Donna gave Gina a grateful smile and headed for her BMW.

Donna drove to the After Dark where Noah told her that David was off that day. No luck at The Beat on the Street office either. No one was there but Brandon. Donna tried calling Mel and Jackie but Kelly answered. She didn't know where he was either. No one seemed to know where he was.

Donna grew more and more frustrated the longer she searched until she finally decided to give up. She needed some time to sort things out in her own mind. When the time was right, David would find her.

Brenda

At the Peach Pit

Brenda sat across from Noah at the Peach Pit enjoying a late snack. Noah was telling her a long story about the days when he lived on the boat. Brenda laughed as he went on and on. She thought living on the boat sounded fascinating and they discussed saving up for another one that they could sail on together.

Brenda hadn't noticed that Dylan had come in until he was standing right at their table. Noah stopped talking and they both looked up at him.

"Could you give me a few moments alone with your girlfriend?" he asked, addressing Noah.

Noah looked at Brenda who just gave him a confused smile. He shrugged and got up. "I'll be in the After Dark."

Brenda nodded, "I'll be in in a minute."

Dylan took the seat that Noah had just vacated. He pushed Noah's plate away and propped his elbows on the table, leaning forward to talk so only Brenda could hear.

"I want to talk to you about something and I don't want you to get upset," he started.

Brenda nodded. "What is it, Dylan?"

Dylan pulled out a magazine from his back pocket. "I just happened to see this and I think you should give it a shot." He found the page he was looking for and handed it to Brenda.

Brenda glanced at the cover to see what she was looking at... Hollywood Variety. She raised an eyebrow at Dylan but then read what he was showing her.

It was an advertisement for the new Aaron Spelling drama that was starting in the fall. They were casting and would be holding auditions for the female characters soon at the FOX studio.

Brenda read it, taking in the details, but then passed it back to Dylan. "You know I don't act anymore."

"I know that you haven't, but that doesn't mean that you never can again," Dylan tried to explain logically.

Brenda just shook her head, "Don't waste your breath Dylan. That part of my life is over."

Dylan sighed, they had had this argument time and time again in London. He had hoped that enough time had gone by that she would reconsider. "Brenda, I know you loved Matthew and I know that he loved you. You were both born to be actors. If the situation was reversed and something had happend to you, do you think that Matthew would have given up acting?"

Brenda shook her head, trying not to hear what he was trying to tell her.

"Brenda, you are very talented. And if you let Matthew's death keep you from doing something that you were destined to do, then you might have well died with him that night." Dylan knew his words were harsh but he thought she needed to hear what he was saying.

Brenda looked up as tears streamed down her face. "Dylan, I know you're trying to help but I can't act, I just can't!" Brenda got up and ran out of the Peach Pit leaving Dylan sitting at the table holding the magazine.

Lexi

At Whilshire Memorial

Lexi was still laying down taking a nap. She began to have a dream.

Lexi and Michael were sitting in his apartment. There were two kids sitting down watching T.V. and Michael was cooking eggs.

"Good morning, baby," Michael said and kissed her cheek. Lexi had just walked out of their bedroom.

"Morning." She kissed the two kids and one started talking.

"Mommy can we go to the store today I really want this new batman toy and I--"

Lexi woke up. In her mind, she replayed the dream she just had. They had a family, her and Michael. Was that her future? Her dreams never lied. The problem was, she wasn't sure if she wanted it that way or not.

Kelly

At Mel and Jackie's

Kelly was doing some work and watching Erin while Jackie went for a relaxing afternoon at a spa. Her birthday was coming up and Kelly felt she deserved a break.

"I'm going to get a drink," Kelly said while heading into her mother's kitchen. "Do you want something?" she asked Erin.

"No thanks," Erin replied, not even looking up from the television.

Kelly returned a moment later with a bottle of water. She sat back down on the couch. "Erin, are you okay?" she asked, seeing that her little sister seemed to be a little down about something.

"Can I ask you something?" Erin said while getting up from the floor and sitting down next to Kelly on the couch.

"Of course. What are sisters for?"

"Okay, well, there's this boy. And I think he likes me. Just I don't like him. How do I let him off easy?" Erin asked.

"Erin, you're aging me fast. Your only nine years old! Who is this boy?"

"Zach," Erin said bluntly.

Kelly didn't know what to say, "Are you sure he likes you?" Erin nodded. "Why don't you give it some time?" Kelly suggested, "Just wait and see what happens."

"Okay," Erin said and sat back down on the floor, returning all her attention to the television.

Kelly went back to her work. She was filling out a personal record for herself of Mr. Lemme's case. It was just then that she decided she would go ahead with the research. It was just something she had to do.

David

At Now Wear This

"She's not here," Gina said as soon as David entered the store.

David couldn't help but tease her a little, "And maybe I'm here to see my sister-in-law instead."

"Doubtful," Gina replied.

"All right," David smiled, truly happy for the first time in months. "Where is she?"

"I don't know. She ran out of here awhile ago but didn't say where she was going." Gina looked thoughtful, "Come to think of it, that was right after your girlfriend paid her a visit."

"Jennifer? Jennifer Mancini was here? Talking to Donna?" David groaned. That was the last thing they needed right now.

"Yep," Gina replied with a smile. David deserved everything he got, she felt.

"Okay, well if she comes back here, please tell her to call me. Gina, can you do that? For me?" David asked, almost begging.

"Sure, David." Gina shook her head as she watched him walk out. Anyone could see that he loved her, why couldn't he just admit it to himself, she thought.

David left and drove to the Bungalow. She wasn't there. He called Kelly's cell and then Brenda's but neither of them had seen her. He tried the Peach Pit but no one had seen her there either. David was about to give up when he thought of one possible place she might have gone.

Brenda

At Melrose Place

Brenda had forgotten all about Noah in her rush to leave the After Dark. Back at Melrose Place, she picked up the phone and called him to explain. Noah listened as she told him what Dylan had wanted. She expected him to be sympathetic and to agree with her. She was surprised when he didn't.

"Well I certainly didn't expect you to agree with Dylan," she told him coldly.

Noah chuckled, "Yea, it is a rare occassion. But I really think you should consider it."

"Well, I'm not doing it so you can both just forget aobut it," Brenda replied furiously.

"Brenda, you weren't cut out to work selling clothes in a store. You have way too much talent for that."

"It's only temporary until I figure out what else I want to do. And you have no idea how much talent I have. You've never seen me act," Brenda yelled into the phone.

"I've heard, though. I've heard Brandon tell how you would always grab all the attention when your parents made home videos. And I've heard your friends talk about your parts in the plays at high school and C.U. So, no, I guess I have never actually see you act but I have seen how your face lights up when you talk about acting. I love you Brenda, and I do want to see you act. I'm hoping that I can someday."

For the second time that day, Brenda was crying. She didn't want to talk anymore, "I'll see you tonight," she whispered into the phone, before hanging it up gently.

Donna

Donna sat in the sand in front of the Beach Apartment watching the sun go down. How many times had she watched the sun set from that balcony? Now it wasn't even her home. She looked at the apartment rising above her and wondered why she had been drawn here.

Maybe because it was the home that had been a witness to so much of her and David's history. Their freshmen year living there together but in separate bedrooms. Making love for the first time. So many good times and some not so good times either. But they had made it through...until now.

Donna reached up and wiped a tear away. She didn't know what to think or feel, she just knew she couldn't go on this way any longer. God, how she loved him. If he could only see that…

David walked quietly up behind Donna watching the same sunset and thinking many of the same thoughts about their shared past. They had been through too much together to give it up. He knew that now.

David walked over and sat down in the sand next to Donna. She glanced at him and then got a huge smile on her face. "David, I've been looking for you everywhere."

I can relate to that, David thought to himself but only smiled at her.

"Donna," David started at the same time Donna said his name.

"You first," David said to her with a smile.

Donna took a deep breath, "David, I have told you over and over again that I am sorry for what happened. But I realize now that words aren't going to do it. I need to be able to show you, to show you that you can trust me, that I love you…"

David reached out a finger and touched it to her lips, "I know. Donna, I am the one that is sorry. For so many years, I kept you on a pedestal…you were perfect in every way. When you agreed to marry me, I felt so lucky, I never thought that I deserved your goodness. I think part of what I have been dealing with is that you are a person and that you make mistakes too. I think I forgave you a long time ago. I was just hiding, afraid to be hurt again."

Donna started to cry, "I never meant to hurt you."

David hugged her, "And I never meant to hurt you but I know I did, many times, and I am sorry for that. I can't promise that I will never hurt you again but I want you to know that I will always stay and try to work things out. Forever."

Donna leaned over and kissed him. He kissed her back and in that kiss Donna could feel all the love that they had been holding back. David put his arm around her shoulder and pulled her close to him. Together, they finished watching the sun set over the ocean.

Valerie

Valerie had just arrived at the police station with Ginger, much later than she had planned.

"Excuse me, where can I find Detective Sims?" she asked the woman at the front desk.

"Have a seat. I'll check with him and clear your name," the woman said as she got up from her desk and went in back.

"I have a bad feeling about this," Val whispered.

"Don't! I'm telling you, it's all taken care of. You have absolutely nothing to worry about," Ginger assured her.

"I've heard that before."

"Ms. Malone? Sorry to interrupt," Detective Sims smiled.

"I'm sure," she replied as she stood up and followed Detective Sims to his office in the back, leaving Ginger sitting in the waiting area.

"Now, I'll make this quick. You're off the hook. Mr. Mills called earlier today, he won't testify against you if you were ever put to trial. Since he is our only witness, we have nothing further against you. You got off lucky Ms. Malone, real lucky."

"What can I say? I'm the all American citizen. Not a prostitute. It's good to know that that's clear now. Have a nice life detective, I assure you I won't be back," Val winked at him and left the room, happy that this whole ordeal was put to rest.

Brenda

At Melrose Place

Brenda turned on the stereo and poured herself a glass of wine. She really needed something to calm her nerves. She tried to relax on the couch but that wasn't working.

She paced back and forth across her apartment for some time before ending up in her bedroom. She set down the glass of wine and opened the closet. Up on the top shelf was a box that she rarely opened. It was a box full of memories from the past.

Brenda reached up and pulled the box down. She blew at the dust t had had settled on the lid. She carried it to her bed and sat down to open it. Brenda pulled out the photo album that was on top.

She turned through the pages, knowing all of the pictures by heart. Images of Matthew smiled up at her. She stopped to look closer at her favorite, a picture of Matthew standing in front of Buckingham Palace. If only they could go back to that time. Brenda ran a finger over the image. A tear slid down her cheek and fell on the picture.

Brenda turned to the next page and a card that he had given her almost fell out. He had given her the card on opening night of their last play together... Love Story. The front read "Break a Leg" and inside he had written:

Baby, I know it has been crazy lately. Rehersals haven't left us much time for "us". Only a fellow actor could understand the lives we lead! It is your devotion to this crazy profession that has challenged me and encouraged me when I wanted to give up. Standing beside you each night on the stage, your talent constantly amazes me and it is then that I am most thankful to you for loving me.

Always, Matthew

As Brenda shut the book, Dylan's voice rang through her ears...

"Brenda, I know you loved Matthew and I know that he loved you. You were both born to be actors. If the situation was reversed and something had happend to you, do you think that Matthew would have given up acting?"

She knew that he wouldn't have nor would she have wanted him to. He probably would have thrown himself into acting and used his grief to strengthen his craft. Brenda had to smile at that. Her acting coaches had always taught them that they had to recall upon their personal struggles to get through the emotional scenes. In the past, all she had had to pull upon was her memories of Kelly and Dylan. That seemed like nothing compared to this.

It was Dylan's voice she heard as she reached a decision.

"Brenda, you are very talented. And if you let Matthew's death keep you from doing something that you were destined to do, then you might have well died with him that night."

Lexi

At Whilshire Memorial

After a lot of hard consumed thought, Lexi decided that she loved Michael. She wanted to be with him again, and she didn't know why she had turned him down. Just then Doctor Bell walked in.

"Hello Lexi, how are you feeling?"

"Great, just spiffy."

He chuckled. "That's good to hear. Well, I just wanted to tell you that you will be released in two weeks. We may need to perform another surgery for safety reasons but we aren't sure yet."

She nodded. "Okay...."

"Well, I can see that your resting so I'll leave you alone."

"Okay, when's dinner?"

"In two hours."

"Alright. Bye."

Doctor Bell left the room, leaving Lexi worrying about the possibility of another operation.

Brenda

At Melrose Place

Brenda dialed Dylan's cell phone, unsure of what exactly to say to him, besides thanks.

"Hello?" Dylan said into the phone. Brenda looked at the phone, he never answered the phone that way. "Yea?" he said again, thinking no one was there.

"Dylan, its me," Brenda started to say.

"Listen Bren, I'd like to say that I'm sorry for before. And I am sorry for making you cry but I'm not sorry for saying what I said. I meant it..."

"Dylan, can I say something here?" Brenda asked, smiling alone in her apartment.

"Yea, go ahead," Dylan replied.

"Well, I have a little problem. I don't have an agent. I can't go to that audition without an agent."

Dylan started laughing, "Well, I'm sure that we can find you an agent, Bren. Are you trying to tell me what I think you are?"

"I think I am. I'm scared, I'll admit that. But I think its time."

"Good for you. Let me do some calling and I'll get back to you," Dylan said.

"Thanks Dylan. You've been a good friend and I appreciate it."

"Sure, sure. Anytime. I'll talk to you later," Dylan said and hung up. Brenda replaced the receiver down slower. For the first time in a long time, she was excited about the future. She really wanted this part.

She walked to her room and pulled out some old scripts and laid down on her bed to start practicing. It didn't dawn on her until much later that she hadn't called Noah to tell him her news.

Steve

At Casa Walsh

Steve had just finished setting the dining room table when the doorbell rang.

"They're right on time," Janet said smoothing out her skirt as she headed to the front door.

"Okay, this is it," Steve said approaching the door.

Janet took a deep breath and opened the door, "Mom, Dad!" she exclaimed. "Come in, come in."

"Janet, dear, how are you?" Mrs. Sosna asked while walking in.

"Fine, just fine," Janet replied with a smile.

Steve gave Mrs. Sosna a hug and kissed her cheek, "Nice to see you again." Steve extended his hand for Mr. Sosna as he walked in. Mr. Sosna just gave him a look and followed his wife into the living room. "Nice to see you too!" Steve called out after him.

Just as Janet was about to close the door, Rush came up the front step.

"Janet!" he exclaimed with a smile, "You look beautiful!" he said giving her a smile and a kiss as he walked into Casa Walsh.

"Dad, hey," Steve went over and shook his hand.

"So what's this all about?" Rush asked.

"You'll find out soon enough," Steve replied simply.

Carly

At California University

Carly was sitting in her law class. Thank god it was almost over. Professor Dain was going on and on about the history of law--again.

Just then, there was a knock at the classroom door. Professor Dain opened it. There was Mark. "Hello, sir, who are you?"

"I'm here to see Carly Reynolds."

Professor Dain looked across the room at Carly and said "In the middle of class...I see. Go ahead Ms. Reynolds."

Carly walked out into the hall with Mark and saw him holding flowers. "What the hell are you doing here?"

"I'm here for our date," he said.

"What date?"

"Zach called me and told me that you wanted us all to get together, so here I am," he held out the flowers

She sighed and pushed the flowers away gently. "No Mark, he's just a little boy trying to make his mommy happy. He was trying to get us back together."

Mark looked at her. "Did it work?"

She shook her head. "No, I have to move on. And so do you."

He sighed and looked down. "Well if you change your mind call me... I'm leaving to go back to New York in a week."

"I won't change my mind." She walked into the classroom just as the bell rang.

"Okay, class. I hope you all do well on next weeks exam! I know some of you will be studying, and others will be worrying about their love lives," he said looking directly at Carly.

She just walked out of the classroom annoyed at his comment.

Janet

At Casa Walsh

"It was nice of you to invite us for dinner," Mrs. Sosna said to Steve and Janet. They were all in the living room, having some pre-dinner munchies.

"Anytime," Steve replied with a smile.

The conversation started to drag as it had done previously.

"Well..." Rush said, "C'mon, tell us already. Why did you invite us here?"

Steve and Janet looked at each other and took one another's hand. "Mom, dad, Rush," Janet began, "we have some news to share with you. Steve and I have become foster parents." Janet waited for a response. "Don't you have anything to say?"

"That's great honey. I guess we're just so shocked," Mrs. Sosna finally said as Mr. Sosna looked blankly and angrily at Janet.

"We wanted to suprise you," Steve began, "and since you know Janet can't have a child, we decided to take in one."

"Congratulations, son," Rush said, standing up to shake Steve's hand.

Mr. Sosna stood up, "How do you expect to raise another child?" he demanded. "You've already got your hands full!" he said pointing to Maddy who started crying from all the noise. Janet went and comforted her.

"Ben!" Mrs. Sosna scolded her husband. "This is not the time for an argument. Just be happy for your daughter!"

Janet was suprised that her mother actually stood up for her, "Why can't you just accept the fact that I'm happy? Accept Steve as my husband and accept our decision! It's not like a child is moving in with us tomorrow! We've just been approved. We feel we made the right decision, and that's good enough for me. It's a shame it's not good enough for you too," Janet said, trying to hold back tears. She passed Maddy off to Steve before running into the kitchen.

"Excuse me," Steve said, handing Maddy off to Rush and then heading into the kitchen.

"Here, let me take her," Mrs. Sosna said, taking Maddy out of Rush's arms and then sitting down and whispering to her angered husband.

"What just happened here?!?!" Rush asked looking at the Sosnas then towards the kitchen.

Kelly

At Melrose Place

Kelly tiredly and angrily rubbed her forehead and put down the phone, crossing another name off the list that lay on the table in front of her. For the past three hours, she had been in Brandon's apartment, starting some reasearch on Jack Lemme's drug. She had been trying to get in contact with any person she thought might be resourceful: distributors, medical scientists, medical lawyers, drug companies, and so on.

She remembered reading something in a magazine about a diet drug that caused many health problems for those who took it. She quickly searched through the stash of magazines on Brandon's coffee table. Ah, there it was. She opened Reader's Digest to the article. Phen-Phen, a diet drug was now the topic of a law case with more than five hundred plaintiffs. There was a number to call for more information. Kelly dialed the number but no one answered. Instead a recording came on:

You have reached the Federal Drug Administrations Hotline. This hotline is to serve the purpose of informing the public of law cases over drug disputes, illegal drugs, and health hazards. Our hours are Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm, Eastern Standard Time. Stay on the line for our Voice Mail System. Thank you.

Kelly hung up the phone. As soon as she did, Brandon walked through the door.

"Hi honey," he said to Kelly, kissing the top of her head. "What are you up to?"

"Oh, just doing some research," Kel replied without going into specifics. "How was your day?"

"Quiet...It was nice having the office all to myself. How about we go grab some dessert?"

"I'd love to but I can't. I have to get to the library, it's open late tonight." Kelly stood up, "I won't be gone over an hour."

"Alright, I'll be here."

"Okay, bye," Kelly said rushing out the door with all the information she had gathered.

Steve

At Casa Walsh

"This chicken is delicious," Steve said breaking the silence at the dining room table.

Rush took a sip of his wine, "It truly is. You just have to give me the recipe for my chef."

"Oh, it's just something I cooked up," Janet said blushing. "Mom, Dad, how do you like dinner?"

Mrs. Sosna smiled politely, "It's just fine dear. These--" She was interrupted by her husband.

"White wine. I hate white wine!" he shouted.

Janet gave Steve a look as he played dumb.

"I love the wine," Rush said taking another sip.

"I was not talking to you!" Mr. Sosna stood up and shouted.

Rush snapped back, "Don't talk to me that way!"

"Janet, I told you not to marry this man! Look at the pain and dysfunction in this family! I refuse to be a part of it!" He started to get up and leave when he stopped and turned to look at his wife, "Let's GO!" he yelled. She quickly got up and followed him.

"Well, if they're leaving, I'm going too. I refuse to be insulted this way!" Rush said and followed the Sosnas out the door.

Janet quickly got up and stood in the dining room archway, "Wait! We didn't even have--" The front door slammed shut, "dessert..."

Carly

At Melrose Place

When Carly got home she went straight into Zach's room. "Zachary!"

"Yes mom?" Zach asked playing video-games with Leah.

"You're in trouble."

Zach gulped and looked at her. "No video-games for a week."

She unplugged the set and grabbed it. "I'm sorry Leah. How are you?"

"I'm fine."

"Here's your pay. I'll see you tomorrow then, right?"

"Of course, bye Carly, bye Zach."

"Bye Leah," Zach waved.

"Bye." Carly looked at him. "Zach, do you need me to discuss what you're in trouble for?"

He shook his head. "No."

"Then goodnight." She kissed his forehead. "And stay out of mommy's business okay?"

"Mhmhm," he said and nodded.

Carly went into her bedroom and took out the letter Mark wrote her, and cried once again. She promised herself, whatever it takes, she will get over him.

Jake

At the Beverly Royale Hotel

Jake knocked on the Clare's door and after a few seconds Clare opened it.

"Before you say anything, just hear me out," Jake said right away before Clare even got the chance to begin. They went in and sat down on the couch.

"I went to a lawyer today."

"Why did you need a lawyer?" Clare asked curiously

"I filed for divorce... I am divorcing Colleen."

Clare was overwelmed with happiness and reached over to hug him. "That's great Jake!" she said pulling away "I hope you'd say that."

Just then, Jake leaned in and kissed Clare. She was taken by surprise but wasn't about to stop him. They started to make out but after a few minutes, Clare stopped and pushed him away.

"What's wrong?"

"Jake, I dont think we should do this."

"Do what?"

"This...." she weighed her words good before she actually said them, "I don't think we should see each other until the divorce is final."

"But that might be months!"

"I think its best, for both of us." Jake didnt know what to say.

"I think you should leave," Clare said after a moment of silence.

Jake just had to take one look at her to see that she was serious before he got up and walked to the door. Clare followed behind him. Before leaving, he gave Clare a last goodbye kiss that he was sure she wasn't going to soon forget. Clare just stood at her door watching him walk away and turn the corner.

Kelly

At Melrose Place

Brandon was already in bed by the time Kelly got home from the library. "Sorry, I'm late. I just got all caught up in my research."

"No problem," Brandon said while flipping the channels on the TV. "Did you get any good information?"

"Lots...I'm going to sort it all out tomorrow. Oooh, before I forget," Kelly said leaving the bedroom and then returning a moment later with a bag in hand. "I figured we shouldn't miss out on dessert entirely." She opened the bag and pulled out two sundaes.

Brandon smiled at her nice gesture. Little things like this reminded him exactly why he fell in love with her in the first place.

"So which one do you want?" Kelly asked, "Mint Chocolate Chip or Rocky Road?"

"Mint is fine, thanks."

She handed him the sundae and then got into bed next to him, starting to eat her sundae.

"Listen, Kel," Brandon began, "I know you were really worried with the whole Kanis thing and I know we haven't spent a whole lot of time together lately, but I wanted you to know I love you."

Kelly smiled, "I know you do, Brandon."

"No, Kel, I don't think you do. You don't know how happy I was to see you in Dylan's office, waiting for me. There's never been another girl that's made me feel the way you do. I love you."

Brandon leaned over and kissed her passionately. Kelly struggled to put her sundae down on the night table as they continued to kiss. Brandon moved his body atop of hers, dropping his sundae to the floor. Both sundaes began to melt as the two undressed and made love.