Title: Playing For Keeps
Author: CRene
Rating: PG13
Summary: After surviving the events of Puerto Rico the teens come home to more lies, secrets, and
betrayals.
**Note: Banner created by AndieMc**
Chapter 1
On the bright morning the three teens walked down the beach. They had finally made it out of the cavern
and were trying to find some sign of human life. Belle was exhausted, dirty, and starving. Her feet were
getting tired from walking for so long that Shawn was holding her up.
“I don’t think I can go any further,” Belle cried.
“I don’t think we will have too,” Phillip yelled. “Look over there.”
The three friends were staring at the lifeboats that were on the beach. Brady and Chloe were standing next
to the boats with Nicole. Belle began to run towards her brother. Brady Black’s eyes lit up when he say his
‘Tink’ running towards him that he ran to her.
“Brady, I thought I would never see you again,” Belle cried.
“Tink, are you okay,” Brady asked holding on for dear life to his baby sister.
“I am so happy to see you,” Belle said.
“Brady, how did you find us,” Shawn asked.
“Mimi, told us what island you were on,” Chloe answered.
“Nicole, what are you doing here,” Phillip asked trying to avoid Chloe.
“I am here to make sure you three are okay. Victor sent me here since we know who tried to go after Mrs.
Horton’s ruby,” Nicole replied.
“How do you know about the ruby,” Shawn questioned.
“I told him. We knew that you were in trouble and Mimi told us about Paul,” Chloe commented.
“There is something you guys need to know. Paul is Nicole’s father and his last name isn’t Garcia. The last
name is Mendez,” Brady told them.
“What,” the three teens shouted.
“Can we just get off of this island,” Belle begged.
“Let’s go,” Brady said.
They got on the two life boats heading back to the yacht that was waiting for them a few hundred feet out in
the ocean. Once they arrived on the yacht they were greeted by Bo, Hope, Victor, John, and Marlena. The
parents held their children in their arms, realizing that through all they had survived it was better to have
their children safe.
“Mom, we found the ruby,” Shawn whispered to Hope.
“Grams didn’t want you risking your life to get the ruby back,” Bo interrupted.
“Mrs. Horton is worth it,” Belle said coming up behind Shawn.
“She has been nothing but kind to the people of Salem. This was her reward for all of the things she does for
us,” Phillip commented trying to help.
“The look on Great Grams’ face will be worth every minute we spent on that island,” Shawn replied.
The teens warmed up and within an hour were on a jet back home. Belle needed her sleep but her mind kept
rushing back to the revelation that she was heading back to Salem. Standing alone in the back of the plane
looking out at the ocean below her, Belle wanted some time alone. She noticed that Shawn had not said
much to her since they were rescued. Was the moments they shared together a summer fling? Would they
continue where they left off?
“Penny for your thoughts,” the voice asked behind her.
Belle turned to see Shawn standing in front of her. She wasn’t sure if she wanted to tell him or not.
“Just thinking about when we get home,” Belle answered truthfully.
“I know what you’re thinking. Let me put it this way,” Shawn said kissing her passionately not caring who
would notice. “Brady and your father will start to wonder why I have a silly grin on my face when I am with
you.”
“Why a silly grin,” she asked blushing.
“Because I am crazy for you and I don’t care who knows it,” Shawn said kissing her taking her hands in his.
“I was hoping that you would say that,” Belle whispered.
“What did you think that once we got back to Salem I was going to change my mind about us,” Shawn
questioned.
“I wasn’t sure,” Belle admitted.
“Belle this trip a lot has happened between us. Sometimes it was the most exciting others it was
terrifying,” he said. “I will treasure not just finding Great Grams ruby, but you as well.”
Shawn kissed his girlfriend once more than lead her to their families. Hope noticed instantly that his son
was holding Belle’s hand. Deep down Hope knew that the summer had been good to Shawn and Belle’s
relationship. Marlena took note of the twinkle in her baby girl’s eyes.
Across from where Shawn and Belle were sitting were Brady and Chloe. Chloe couldn’t help being worried
about Phillip. Chloe knew she had to speak to him, but would certain people let her.
“Brady, I’ll be right back,” Chloe declared standing up and walking towards Phillip who was at the front of
the plane.
Phillip noticed the closeness of Brady and Chloe. Was it finally over between Chloe and him? Did she fall for
Brady over the summer? Chloe was confused on her feelings towards Phillip. He was the first guy ever to
notice her and to love her. Chloe was in love with him also, but was it enough. Brady, on the other hand,
challenged her like no one else.
“Are you okay,” Chloe asked touching Phillip’s shoulder.
“I’m glad I am going home,” Phillip replied.
“I was so worried about you,” Chloe admitted.
“Were you? It looks like Brady was there for you,” Phillip mentioned.
“Don’t be like this, Phillip. When Nicole had realized that Paul was on that island with you, I began to worry
that I would never see you again or for that matter Shawn or Belle,” Chloe explained.
“I want you to be happy, Chloe. If that means being with me, then it’s wonderful, but if it is Brady that is
fine also. I promised Belle that no matter what I wasn’t going to be that jealous madman like before,”
Phillip commented. “Your happiness is the only thing that matters.”
“Phillip, I think that is the nicest thing you have said to me in months. I need time to figure out who I am
before I date anymore. That doesn’t mean that we can’t be friends,” Chloe said.
“If that is what you want, I can handle it,” Phillip replied. “I think I am going to talk to my father.”
Chloe stood there shocked about her conversation with Phillip had went. She had hoped that the summer
had changed Phillip and it looked like it did. Now, though, Chloe wanted to find her father.
“Dad, did you see Mimi or Jan before you guys came,” Shawn asked sitting down next to his father.
“What about Jan,” Chloe asked coming up towards Shawn.
“They got close on the trip,” Phillip mentioned overhearing the conversation.
“Phil, don’t start,” Shawn shot back.
“Jan was admitted to the hospital as soon as they got back,” Marlena interrupted.
“Why? What happened,” Belle asked.
In the back of his mind Shawn knew why Jan could have been admitted. He promised Jan that he would
never tell anyone about Paul raping her. Hopefully Jan took Shawn’s advice about getting checked out after
the rape.
“I am not sure,” Marlena answered her daughter.
“Was she ever around Paul,” Nicole shockingly wondered out loud.
“All the time,” Phillip revealed.
“Oh my god,” Nicole remarked. “He did it again!”
Nicole knew that her father had another agenda on that island. Paul Mendez had violated another teenager’
s life. Nicole had to speak to Jan Spears as soon as she returned to Salem. If it was true her father would
pay for taking another innocent child’s innocence away.
Chapter 2
“Nicole, do you think he would have done that to a teenager,” Victor whispered.
“I was younger than her,” Nicole snapped.
“What are you two talking about? What did Paul do,” Bo interrogated them.
“Dad, there is something you need to know,” Shawn began to explain.
“Please have a seat and buckle up we are now descending upon Salem Airport,” the pilot announced over the
intercom.
Everyone had a seat and Nicole and Victor sat in between Shawn. He knew what they had wanted, but if
Nicole knew what kind of man Paul was, she could testify against him. Shawn promised Jan that he wouldn’
t tell anyone, yet here was the chance to put him away for life.
Belle sat next to Phillip and buckled up. She had to talk to Phillip on what Victor and Nicole were talking
about.
“Phillip, what is going on,” Belle asked.
“I don’t know, but it must be important to Nicole,” Phillip mentioned.
“Shawn knows something,” Belle admitted.
“Why do you think that,” Phillip wondered.
“Nicole and your father wouldn’t be sitting next to him looking like he was being put on trial,” Belle
explained.
“What do you know, Shawn,” Nicole ordered Shawn.
“If you know something tell us. Paul Mendez is not a person to mess with,” Victor stated.
“I promised her,” Shawn acknowledged.
“This isn’t the first time,” Nicole cried.
“A Brady keeps their promises,” Shawn tried to argue. He knew that his grandfather and Nicole were right.
If he told them what Paul did to Jan and Jan found out she would never trust him again. Shawn knew how
much Jan appreciated him. Witnessing first hand how Jason treats her, he wanted someone she could trust.
“Paul raped Jan on that island.”
“He will pay for hurting her, believe me,” Nicole stated.
Minutes later the plane landed and everyone was ready to get back to their lives in Salem. Nicole had a
mission, which was to find her father. Belle had to find out what Shawn was keeping from her. Phillip had
to try to move on with his life now that Chloe was no longer part of it. Shawn needed to find Jan and make
sure she was okay. While Chloe wanted to find out why Nancy was keeping her father’s identity a secret.
“Before everyone heads off, there is something I want to say,” Victor shouted before everyone left his jet.
“Now that my son, my grandson, and Belle are home, I want all of us to have a celebration at the mansion
tomorrow.”
“Thanks, Victor, but I don’t think that is such a great idea,” John replied.
“Dad, why not,” Brady asked.
“It’s okay, John, let Victor do this. The kids deserve it after what they did for Alice,” Marlena stated.
“We will be there,” everyone simultaneously agreed.
Victor had his own agenda on having the dinner. He wanted to keep on eye on Chloe Lane stayed and John
Black. Chloe needed to stay away from Phillip and Brady and Victor would stop at nothing to make sure it
happened. John was a threat to him now that he hired Kate for Basic Black. Victor wanted to make Kate
pay for trying to kill him months ago.
An hour later, Shawn was walking through the hallway of Salem Hospital. He needed to see Jan to make
sure she was okay. What Shawn didn’t realize was he had a shadow by the name of Isabella Black. Belle
knew something was going on with Jan and Shawn, but she didn’t know what. Shawn reached Jan’s room,
but he had the strangest feeling that someone was following him.
“Jan,” Shawn whispered walking into the room. She laid there looking out of the window not aware of the
presence of the room. Jan looked fragile and pale like she had some deadly disease. “Jan.”
She finally turned her head and noticed the young man that helped save her life. Jan knew that Shawn was
thought to be dead, but when she tried to tell Mr. Woods that Paul had something to do with it. She was
scared that Shawn was really dead, the young man who helped in her time of need, could have been gone for
good. Now Shawn Brady was standing in her room.
“Shawn, I am so glad you are okay,” Jan cried.
“Are you,” Shawn whispered. “What happened?
“I can’t go through this alone. Stay with me,” she weeped.
“Jan, what is going on? Did you tell the police about what happened?”
“On the plane I started to feel queasy. I wasn’t sure if it was from hearing that you were dead or of what
happened before. Suddenly I was overcome with pain in my abdomen. Ms. Perez had an ambulance at the
airport when we arrived. There did an exam on me and found out that I could be pregnant. I couldn’t tell
them,” Jan bawled.
“You’re what,” Belle shouted appearing in the doorway.
“Belle,” Shawn uttered.
“Jan, why is my boyfriend here and not yours,” Belle ordered.
Jan turned her head crying not able to look at Shawn or Belle. She couldn’t believe that Belle had found out
that she could be pregnant.
“Belle, come with me,” Shawn stated grabbing her arm and taking her out of the room. When he was farther
away from Jan’s room he turned to his girlfriend and knew that she had followed him.
“What is going on,” Belle asked pulling her arm away from Shawn.
“More like what are you doing here,” Shawn ordered.
“I followed you. I know when you are lying and the look you gave us on that plane before was a look of
despair. You were going to tell us something about Jan. What happened between you and Jan?”
“I can’t tell you that,” Shawn replied shaking his head.
“You can’t or you won’t,” Belle told him.
“I made a promise.”
“You also made one to me.”
“I know. Belle, please,” Shawn begged. “Trust me.”
“I don’t know if I can.”
Belle walked away knowing she wasn’t going to win this fight. Whatever he was hiding was big and it had to
do with Jan. She couldn’t believe that Jan was pregnant. Why wasn’t Jason there for her? Belle wandered
aimlessly around Salem not knowing where she was going. She wanted to trust Shawn, but he was lying to
her. He never lied to her and now that they were dating he was keeping secrets.
Shawn wanted to tell Belle the truth, but he had to talk to Jan. He walked back into her room noticing the
tears that wouldn’t stop. He had never seen her cry before and now she couldn’t stop. She seemed like one of
the china doll’s Belle had in her room when they were younger. Belle would yell at Shawn for even touching
her doll collection.
“Did you tell her,” Jan muttered.
“No.”
“Why not? She followed you all the way here. She obviously cares about you, Shawn.”
“I made a promise.”
“I can tell from the look in her eyes that you are breaking her heart. Why,” Jan wondered.
“You! I am breaking her heart because of you,” Shawn Brady proclaimed.
Chapter 3
“Belle,” Phillip said walking upon the small blond sitting on the bench. The palm of her hands were in her
face and the tears were flowing. Belle couldn’t believe that the one person she could always trust in was
keeping the truth from her. Her and Shawn had finally been bought together and now Jan Spears was
tearing them apart.
“Phillip, he is keeping secrets from me. Jan is doing this to me,” Belle cried.
Phillip sat next to Belle holding her in his arms. Phillip couldn’t understand why Shawn was breaking Belle’
s heart. He had learned the hard way how simple it is to lose the one you love. Belle needed someone to help
her through this and Phillip owed her.
“What is going on here,” Jason asked walking up to Phillip holding Belle in his arms.
“Jason, this isn’t the time,” Phillip
“Yes it is,” Belle screamed. “Why are you not with Jan? She is going to be having your baby and you are
here.”
“My baby that’s impossible,” Jason stated.
“Jan’s pregnant,” Phillip asked.
“Jason isn’t at the hospital with Jan, but Shawn is,” Belle commented.
“Wait, maybe Shawn is the father,” Jason replied. “Because I know for a fact it isn’t mine.”
“No, he wouldn’t do that,” Belle said.
“You probably wouldn’t give it up, so he went to the one that would,” Jason indicated.
“Shawn would not cheat on Belle,” Phillip remarked.
Jason walked off, but Belle was hurt deeply by Jason’s comments. She remembered that last night Shawn
and her were about to make love. Belle had finally stopped them before it went to far. She was afraid
Shawn was angry, but at the moment he wasn’t. Did he go find Jan instead?
“Don’t listen to him. There is no way Shawn would cheat on you with Jan,” Phillip admitted.
Phillip put his arms around Belle trying to comfort his close friend. He knew that Shawn would not sleep
with Jan. If Jason was not the father of Jan’s baby then who was?
At Chloe’s house Brady was sitting in the Jeep with her. There wasn’t two words spoken between them since
they landed back in Salem. Chloe’s mind was drifting back to Phillip and they conversation on the plane.
Brady had fallen for Chloe, but he knew that her heart belonged to Phillip.
“I will see you soon, right,” Brady said.
“I don’t know,” Chloe admitted.
“I hope you and I can still work together even though Phillip is back,” Brady stated.
“Maybe,” Chloe answered.
“I enjoyed every minute of our time together,” Brady stated.
“So did I. I have to go.”
Chloe jumped out of the jeep running towards her house. At the last minute she felt the urge to turn around.
Her feelings for Brady had grown into something more than hostility. Brady bought something out in her
that she hadn’t felt even when she was Phillip. What was this feeling she had for Brady Black?
Turning around to see the look of despair on his face. She waved goodbye to Brady smiling in the process.
The look on Brady’s turned into a smile like the one he had from the duet at the gazebo.
Brady pulled away thrilled that his baby sister was back, but also that Chloe and him were beginning a
new found relationship. Even though, he tried to hide his feelings towards her, he couldn’t stop anymore. His
emotions for Chloe were building deeper and deeper. How was he supposed to go after her when her heart
still belonged to his Uncle Phil? Since the night Chloe and Brady met they had a connection deep inside
their soul. They had a shared passion that no one could understand.
Brady headed home to share some precious time with his little sister. He knew that something had
happened between Belle and Shawn on the island. How close did his sister and Shawn come on that island?
He loved his sister with all his heart. The one person who in the last year had believed in him the most was
Belle. She was defending him constantly to her mother. And now these days Marlena and Brady were
getting along coming to an agreement about his mother. He didn’t hate Marlena because without the love
that his father and Marlena shared there would be no little sister to look after.
In the Salem park Kevin was walking hand in hand with Mimi. They had went on their official first date.
Kevin had taken Mimi to a movie and to the Brady Pub for dinner. Kevin had decided to take Mimi for a
romantic walk through the park in the moonlight.
“Did you have a nice time at the Pub,” Kevin asked.
“I love the Pub. I go there all the time with Belle and Shawn,” Mimi answered.
“I never been there before,” Kevin admitted.
“As you know Shawn’s grandparents own it. There are really great people,” Mimi stated. “Plus they have the
best French fries.”
“You know what else is French,” Kevin laughed.
Kevin, then turned to Mimi gently touching her chin and kissing her passionately. Their hands began to
roam each other’s bodies. This wasn’t a soul around them, but they knew it was wrong. They were off the
island and it still felt right to them. Mimi couldn’t believe that she had fallen for Kevin Lambert. While
Kevin couldn’t believe that he was kissing Miriam Lockhart. Even though, it was something neither of them
could imagine a couple months ago it felt so right to them now.
Kevin heard somebody a few feet away. He stopped kissing Mimi instantly afraid of who they would find.
“Why did you stop,” Mimi asked breathless.
“I hear someone,” Kevin answered.
“It sounds like someone crying,” Mimi stated.
Kevin and Mimi looked through the bushes and noticed the two teenagers sitting on the bench. The young
man had his arms around the blond female. Mimi couldn’t fathom why they were in each other’s arms. Then
the unthinkable happened. The young man reached in and kissed her passionately.
“Oh my god,” Mimi shouted.
“Mimi, sshh,” Kevin whispered.
“What was that,” the female asked pushing him away.
“It sounded like Mimi,” he answered.
“Well, Phillip, it was,” Mimi Lockhart replied coming out of the bushes.
“Mimi, this isn’t what you think,” Belle stated. She couldn’t believe that Phillip had kissed her. Belle wasn’t
sure what to think of the situation.
“I don’t want to hear it, Belle. How could you do this to Shawn,” Mimi asked her best friend.
“It was nothing, Mimi,” Belle admitted.
The look on Phillip’s face was pure sorrow. Not only did Chloe leave him, but Belle was angry that he had
kissed her.
“I wonder if Shawn will take it that way,” Mimi argued grabbing Kevin’s arm walking away. Once they were
out of sight Belle did the only thing she could do.
“How could you do that,” Belle shouted slapping Phillip across the face.
“I just thought that you needed comforting,” Phillip replied.
“Comforting. You kissed me when you knew how I feel about Shawn,” Belle yelled. “How could you? I will
never forgive you.”
Belle stomped off knowing what would happen if Shawn found out about the kiss. She had to find Shawn
before Mimi did. Belle was hoping Shawn was still at the hospital with Jan. Belle didn’t want Shawn to
find out that Phillip had kissed her. She couldn’t understand why Phillip had kissed her. Was he falling for
her? Being friends for years had changed in the matter of minutes. Would her and Phillip ever be the same
again? Would Belle and Shawn ever be the same? What would happen when Shawn found out his best
friend kissed his girlfriend?
Chapter 4
“Why me,” Jan asked wondering out loud why Shawn was breaking Belle Black’s heart.
“It’s my fault this happened. I shoud have known better. My family has taught me that if looks like a duck,
sounds like a duck, it must be a duck. I had the feeling that Paul should not have trusted, but I was to
worried about my Great Grams to even consider that he could be dangerous,” Shawn answered. He knew it
was his fault that Jan was raped. Shawn felt an obligation to be there for Jan.
“This had nothing to do with you , Shawn,” Jan admitted. “It’s Paul’s fault.”
“No, it isn’t,” Nicole Walker said walking into the room.
“What are you doing here,” Shawn asked.
“Paul Garcia (Mendez) is my father,” Nicole replied. “This isn’t the first time he has done something like
this. Jan, I know you are hurting right now, but I need your help to put this sick bastard away for life.”
“I don’t think I can do that,” Jan admitted.
“He was just released from prison for doing the same thing to me. When I was just fourteen years old he
began the terror of destroyijng my childhood. I was not his only victim, he was abusive to my mother and
brother. Don’t you see he could be out there doing this again to some helpless child,” Nicole explained.
“Please.”
“Jan, it’s the only way. I know you are scar of what people will find out. But they will be on your side. You are
not alone. Nicole and I will be with you the entire way,” Shawn stated.
“My parents will be disappointed in me if they even care,” Jan cried.
“If they don’t they are not worth it,” Nicole replied. “If things get to hectic at the house I am sure I can get
Victor to let you stay at the mansion.”
“Oh I am sure Phillip will like that,” Jan laughed.
“Phillip is a great guy once you get use to him,” Shawn admitted.
On the other side of town Mimi was knocking at the Brady residence hoping that Shawn would be there. She
had to tell him what she had witnessed at the park between Belle and Phillip. How could Belle kiss Phillip?
Mimi knew how crazy Belle was for Shawn. Was it just the fact that Phillip was left with no one since Chloe
decided to dump him?
“I don’t think this is such a good idea, Mimi,” Kevin told her at the door.
“I can’t let this happen. Belle and Shawn have waited to long to be together and I am not going to let Phillip
mess that up,” Mimi admitted knocking on the door repeatedly.
“Hold up I’m coming,” Hope yelled. Answering the door with J.T in her arms Hope was shocked to see Mimi
with Kevin Lambert.
“Mimi, what can I do for you,” Hope asked.
“I was wondering if Shawn is here,” Mimi answered. “It is very omportant that I speak to him.”
“No, he said he was going for a walk. It has been an hour and he isn’t hime, yet. I will tell him that you
stopped by when he gets here,” Hope said.
“Thank you, Mrs. Brady,” Mimi replied.
Kevin and Mimi walked away from the house. Mimi wasn’t sure where Shawn could be, but if he found out
from someone else what happened he would never forgive Phillip.
“What about Jan,” Kevin questioned. “Shawn was worried about Jan for awhile. Maybe he went to the
hopsital it visit her.”
“What would I do without you, Kevin,” Mimi stated givcing Kevin a sweet kiss on the lips.
“I hope you don’t have to find out anytime soon,” Kevin laughed.
Belle was walking by the per not knowing if she should go visit Shawn at the hosptial or not. Telling him the
truth of what happened could break his heart, so the hospital was out of the question. She heard footsteps
behind her, so she quickly picked up the pace. Belle only hoped that it was Phillip following her, but that
didn’t give her much comfort.
“Well, if it isn’t the sweet blond,” he yelled jumping in front of her.
“You, what are you doing here,” Belle screeched.
“You took my ruby,” Paul whispered. He grabbed her and threw her down on the ground.
"No," Belle screamed. Paul was struggling with the petite blond while he climbed on top of her. Belle was
kicking and screaming, but it was no use. He was having more trouble with her than he did with Jan. Paul
punched Belle in the face and in the gut to quiet her up. She screamed with agony praying someone would
hear her.
"Get off of her now," Brady yelled kicking Paul off of his baby sister.
"Brady, help," Belle whispered.
She hid in the corner all curled up in a ball. Her clothes were torn from Paul, but it didn't bother her as long
as he was being punished. Brady was beating him up as best as he could when help arrived. Bo and Abe
were walking the pier when he noticed the two men fighting. Bo grabbed Brady and Abe took Paul and the
look on Abe's face was of terror. Abe knew whom he was dealing with and when he noticed Belle hiding in
the corner crying he knew what had happened.
"Bo, take Brady and Belle to the hospital. I will take Paul here to the station," Abe told him.
"We don't even know what happened," Bo replied.
"Yes, we do. Do you see Belle in the corner crying? This is Paul Mendez, Brandon and Nicole Walker's
father," Abe stated.
A few minutes later Bo was carrying Belle into the emergency room. Brady was right beside him with some
cuts and bruises. Mimi and Kevin were walking through the hospital going to Jan's room when they noticed
Bo carrying Belle.
"Kevin, go upstairs and find Shawn. Tell him Belle was bought in," Mimi ordered. "Please, I have to be with
her."
Kevin went running for the stairs knowing it would be faster. When he finally reached Jan's room, he
couldn't believe the visitors she had.
"Kevin, what are you doing here," Shawn asked noticing how Kevin was out of breath.
"Belle*it's Belle. Detective Brady bought her in a few minutes ago. It looked like she was attacked," Kevin
mumbled out of breath.
"My father," Nicole stated.
"Jan, I will be back later," Shawn said waving goodbye running out.
"Wait one minute, I'm coming," Nicole interrupted.
"So am I," Jan replied slowly coming out of her room.
When they got to the emergency room, there was Brady in one room getting bandaged up and a few stitches.
When Shawn saw the fragile being that he had lied to his heart began to break into tiny pieces. He knew
that only one man could have done that to his 'Perfect Girl'.
"Belle, what happened," Shawn asked.
"Paul, he tried to rape me," Belle cried. She reached for him; she needed to fill his arms around her. Belle
wanted to feel safe again.
"I will not let him get away with this," Shawn whispered.
"Where is he," Nicole asked.
"Abe took him down to the station," Bo answered.
"Detective Brady, there is something I need to tell you," Jan mumbled. "On the island he raped me. Belle,
that is why Shawn wouldn't tell you the truth. I was ashamed of what happened. Shawn promised me he
wouldn't say anything on the island and he kept his promise."
"Now Belle got hurt in the process," Shawn stated holding his girl in his arms who would not stop crying.
All of them knew this wasn't over. It was just the beginning of the end. What would happen if Shawn found
out what happened earlier in the night? Would Mimi finally confess to Shawn now that Belle was in pain?
Would Paul pay for his crimes? No one knew the answers, but they knew it wasn't over.
Chapter 5
Belle got checked out and was released an hour later. She didn't want Shawn to leave her sight, but she
knew that Jan also needed him. She had realized that she could share Shawn with Jan because of what had
happened.
In Jan's room, Shawn was helping Jan lay back down when Jason came rushing into the room.
"Why you little cheating whore," Jason shouted.
"Jason, calm down, it's not what you think," Shawn began to explain before Jason decked him.
"Why should I believe anything you have to say," Jason yelled punching Shawn once again.
"What is with all of these fights today," Kevin asked walking into the room. He went straight for Jason and
got him to get off of Shawn.
"You are pregnant with Shawn's baby," Jason yelled. "You want me to be calm. You wouldn't let me have sex
with you, but the almighty Brady does?"
"It isn't like that," Nicole shouted coming into the room. "You don't deserve a courageous young lady like Jan
Spears. From what I understand you have treated this lady like trash when you should have been taken out
with it along time ago. Get your butt out of this hospital room before I call the authorities."
Jason stomped out of the room not knowing if he would ever see Jan again. Why did Jan sleep with Shawn?
What did Shawn have that Jason didn't? Maybe since Belle was free he could make a play for her?
"Why are you being so kind to me," Jan asked politely.
"You deserve it. I went through some tough times when I was younger, and making many mistakes I could
never take back. I don't want you to end up like me," Nicole answered. "You should get some rest. Tomorrow
we will take down my father for the last time."
Before Belle left the hospital it was time for Mimi to give her the talk that could ruin her life. Mimi knew it
had to be done, but now after everything that had happened in the last two hours how would it affect Shawn.
"Why haven't you told him," Belle whispered to Mimi.
"I can't not now. I wasn't going to do it to hurt you, Belle. You are my best friend. I know that you have had
romantic feelings for Shawn Brady ever since we were five years old and he would put sand in your hair and
call you 'perfect girl'. I don't want anyone to break you apart and that even includes Phillip Kiriakis. If
Shawn ever found out that Phillip kissed you he would never forgive you either of you."
"You are right, Mimi. I can't," Shawn interrupted. Belle's face went into total shock when she heard that
voice. "How could you?"
"Shawn, it's not what you think. Mimi didn't get to see what happened later," Belle replied.
"What you guys decided to lip lock some more," Shawn argued.
"No, I slapped him. I told him that I am with you and only you and he had no right to kiss me. I was upset
with you because of Jan. He was comforting me, then out of the blue he kissed me. I didn't want it to
happen," Belle cried.
"Just like us," Shawn acclaimed walking away.
"No, Shawn, please*Shawn*. come back*come back," Belle sobbed falling to her knees. She couldn't believe
that this was happening.
"Let me take you home, Tink," Brady stated picking up his sister.
"I'm sorry, Belle," Mimi murmured. "Kevin, take me home, please."
Twenty minutes later Belle was tossing and turning in her bed trying to sleep. Visions of Shawn Brady
bounced in her head, the memories of their first kiss just a short time ago, to the Last Blast, and to the first
time she knew something bonded them together. Belle couldn't believe that Phillip had kissed her. She
didn't enjoy as much as Shawn's kisses, but it wasn't the worst either. How was she going to make this up to
Shawn?
Shawn Brady was sitting on his bed wondering what had happened to his life in twenty-four hours? Maybe
he should have stayed on that island with Belle. She was right that things would change once they came
back to Salem. Just maybe they were not meant to be?
In the Kiriakis mansion, Victor and Nicole were putting the final pieces of the puzzle together when Phillip
walked in.
"My son, I am so happy that you are back," Victor proclaimed.
"Well, the way things are going I should be sent back to the island," Phillip replied.
"What are you talking about," Victor asked.
"During this summer, I lost Chloe, now in the past three hours I have lost Mimi, Belle and Shawn. I have no
one," Phillip moaned.
"After tomorrow night things will be right again," Nicole announced.
"What are you talking about," Phillip questioned.
"The guest list tomorrow night will consist of Shawn and his parents, Belle and her parents along with
Brady, Chloe and the Wesley's, Jan Spears, Mimi Lockhart and Mrs. Alice Horton," Nicole explained.
"Along with a special guest."
"What is the occasion," Phillip asked.
"It is time to celebrate the beginning of the end," Nicole chuckled leaving the room.
"Father, what are you and Nicole up to," Phillip asked.
"Just finishing up a little business son," Victor said walking out of the room.
Phillip was worried what would happen tomorrow night at this place. Did Shawn already know the truth
about the kiss? Would Chloe and Brady be together? Who was this special guest? Phillip was worried that
Nicole and her father were planning something big that could destroy lives. But whose lives would be in the
crossfire?
Chapter 6
"Hi, Grams," Hope Brady said walking into her Grandma Horton's house. After returning home the
following day Shawn had finally decided it was time to give Alice Horton her ruby back.
"My dear, how are you and the men," Alice asked kissing J.T and Hope on the cheek and giving Shawn a hug.
"Shawn has a surprise for you," Hope answered.
"I know about the ruby Great Grandpa gave you for your anniversary. How it came up missing at the jeweler
and you replaced before Great Grandpa ever found out. On your class trip, we found the ruby for you," Shawn
explained.
Shawn pulled the ruby out of his pocket and in the palm of his hand was the ruby Alice had lost so many
years ago. Her eyes were filled with tears of sorrow of not having her Tom there to share in this wonderful
time and tears of joy. She couldn't believe that her great grandson had risked his life to find the ruby that
meant so much to her husband.
"Jennifer had told me that she informed you of the ruby. I was hoping that you wouldn't go try to find it. The
danger of searching for that ruby almost cost your friend's and your lives. I didn't want you do that for me,"
Alice cried. "But I am very proud of you, Shawn Douglas.
"Thank you, Great Grams," Shawn hugged his great grandmother. He knew how much this had meant to
her. He would do anything for his family and he thought he would do anything for his friends. After finding
out the day before that his best friend had kissed his girlfriend, he didn't know what to think.
At the Black residence Belle was laying on her bed covered up in her blankets with Buddy Bear around her
arms. She had tossed and turned all night emotionally drained from the events the past twenty-four hours.
Belle wanted to hide in her room all day, not even shopping could cure this heartache.
"Tink, are you coming out of there. Marlena made you blueberry pancakes, your favorite," Brady asked.
"Not now, Brady," Belle cried.
Brady walked in the door finding his sister sobbing on her bed. In her arms was Buddy Bear and next to her
bed was the picture of Shawn and Belle from the Last Blast. Brady knew what had happened, but why he
didn't know. He had to make sure that Shawn knew how much Belle cared for him.
"What are you doing," Belle cried.
"I am getting you out of bed. I am not going to let you mope all day," Brady stated. "We have dinner plans
tonight at Grandpa Vic's."
"I am not going," Belle responded.
The conversation was interrupted by Belle's telephone ringing. She reached over to pick it up hoping it
wasn't Phillip.
"Hello," she mumbled.
"Hey, Belle," Chloe said. "I was thinking you and I could go to Salem Place to look for a new outfit for dinner
at the Kiriakis mansion tonight."
"I am not really up to shopping," Belle replied.
"It has been ages since you and I have had a little girl talk. Come on, Belle, it will be fun," Chloe begged.
"Fine, I will meet you in an hour at your place."
"How about I meet you there. I wanted to speak to Brady about something."
"Fine," Belle confirmed hanging up. She threw her head back on the pillow sighing. "You told her, didn't you?"
"Tell her what, Tink," Brady smiled.
"What happened between Shawn, Phillip, and I," Belle shouted.
Belle got ready dragging her feet the entire way. She didn't want to go to Mr. Kiriakis' tonight, because she
knew that war could break out. Once Chloe arrived Belle noticed the body language between Chloe and
Brady. Instantly Belle knew that those two had become close during the summer. Would Phillip be
devastated once he found out? Yet why would Belle think of Phillip's feelings when he didn't care about hers.
At the Horton's Shawn was sitting in the living room with his great grandmother. She noticed how quiet he
had been since he had arrived a couple hours ago. Alice knew that something very powerful was on Shawn's
mind.
"Did Belle Black help in the search for the ruby," Alice asked knowing the answer already.
"Yea," Shawn mumbled.
"She is a very astonishing young lady, don't you think?"
"Yea, Grams."
"Miss Black is also very popular with the boys of Salem High, if I recall?"
"She sure is," Shawn spoke sternly.
"I remember when you were a little boy and everywhere you went there was Miss Black. Now that you two
have grown up into young adults, things haven't changed. Your great grandfather and I were childhood
friends. Did you know that?"
"No. It is different with Belle and I."
"No, it's not. You care for her deeply, Shawn Douglas. I can see it in your eye's when you hear her name.
Whatever is going on with your life right now, don't toss it away. Your relationship with Miss Black is as
precious as mine was with your Great Grandfather. Someone like her only comes around once in a lifetime."
"Thanks, great grams. I have to go home and get ready for dinner."
"Son, please remember what I said," Alice pleaded.
"I will. And every death defying moment we spent finding that ruby was worth it," Shawn explained giving
his great grandmother a hug goodbye.
Now it was time to go home and get ready for the dinner at Grandpa Victor's mansion. Shawn wasn't sure
how things would turn out by the end of the night. Did Phillip harbor feelings towards Belle? Could Shawn
forgive either of them? Was his Great Grandmother Alice right about Belle being the one? Belle had meant
so much to him for many years. He would do anything for Isabella Black and proved it time and time again.
After the island adventure they shared together bought them together would Phillip tear them apart?
Shawn was confused about the way relationships worked. Being a teenager was not the time to settle down
with a serious girlfriend. Yet his feelings for Belle ran deep proving that with one kiss from her would make
his knees weak. How could he resist her?
Chapter 7
Knocking on the Kiriakis mansion, Belle was bundle of nerves. She didn’t want to be here, but her father
and brother made her come.
“Izzy, you are shaking,” John stated.
“She is just nervous,” Brady replied.
“Why,” Marlena asked.
“She knows Shawn will be here,” Brady answered.
“Can you stop talking about me like I am not here,” Belle commented.
“Hi, guys,” Bo said coming up behind the Black family. The Brady clan was right next to Bo with Shawn on
one side and Hope on the other.
Shawn looked down on the ground trying not to make eye contact with Belle. As much as he loved her she
had still kissed Phillip.
“How many people did Victor invite,” Craig Wesley asked walking up the mansion.
“All of Salem,” Chloe laughed looking at Brady.
“Grandpa Victor knows how to have a good time,” Brady smiled.
Opening the door was the housekeeper, Ginger, who recognized most of the guest list.
“Come in, please. May I take your coats,” Ginger asked.
After the coats were taken away, Benjamin, the butler lead them to the dining room where Nicole, Victor,
Phillip, and Jan were standing. Shawn’s look of disgust at his Uncle Phillip was something no one ever
expected to see. The tension in the room you could cut with a knife.
“Now that most of you are here, we can get down to business,” Victor stated.
“What is this about,” Nancy questioned.
“This summer and how we are going to handle it,” Nicole answered.
“Ms. Walker, your mother is here,” Benjamin announced.
“Thank you, Benjamin,” Nicole stated.
When Faye Walker entered the room everyone was in awe of her. No one really knew the details of the
relationship of Faye and Nicole. One fact they knew was Paul was married to her and he was abusive.
Dinner was served which consisted of a gourmet meal fit for a king. The guests chatted amongst themselves
making sure not to cross anyone on their hit list. Finally they entered the study where the trial would take
place.
“Can you explain why all of us are here,” Marlena asked.
“Not that we didn’t appreciate dinner, Victor, but Marlena is right,” Bo stated.
“My father,” Nicole replied.
“I am out of here,” Belle remarked standing up to leave the room.
“No,” Shawn shouted. “You are staying here Miss Black.”
”You do’’t have any right to talk to her that way,” Mimi interrupted.
“Stop,” Jan yelled. “You guys don’t get it. Mr. Kiriakis has set this up so not only can I admit what happened
to me, but also for Belle and Nicole.”
“What are you talking about,” Belle asked.
“On that island, Paul raped me. Shawn came upon the incident and he helped me in the time of need. That
is why you noticed the bruises on Shawn’s face because he fought with Paul to save me. Belle, I didn’t mean
to make you angry. I made Shawn promise,” Jan explained.
“This isn’t Paul’s first time,” Nicole announced. “Mr. and Mrs. Wesley, you might want to know why you are
here?”
“That has crossed my mind,” Nancy replied.
“Does this man look familiar,” Abe inquired coming into the room with Paul in handcuffs.
“I thought you were dead,” Nancy replied.
“Nancy,” Craig said.
“Nicole, what is going on,” Faye asked.
“Phillip asked me to look into Chloe’s parentage. And I came upon something shocking and disturbing.
Chloe meet your father,” Nicole declared. “Mr. Paul Mendez.”
“What,” everyone asked.
“How can that be,” Shawn wondered.
“Why,” Craig questioned his wife.
“How could you,” Nancy cried.
“Glad it wasn’t Stefano,” Hope whispered.
“Oh dear,” Marlena said.
“Nancy, confess the truth. Have the bravery to stand up to what you believe in? Don’t let him win,” Jan
ordered.
“Nancy,” Chloe begged to know.
“Fine. The truth is many years ago Paul used me like he did Jan. I didn’t think I could handle raising a baby
whose father was a rapist,” Nancy confessed. “I actually thought he was dead that is why I never told
anyone.”
“If you testify against him he will be going away for life,” Nicole commented.
“You guys will never get away with this,” Paul announced.
“Mother, you are the another piece of the puzzle,” Nicole stated.
“Testify against his abuse,” Abe stated.
“I will testify,” Belle mumbled.
“So will I for the criminal acts that happened on the island,” Shawn said.
“Great, son,” Bo told Shawn.
“Phillip,” Brady asked.
“Yea, me too,” Phillip answered not able to look anyone in the eye.
“How could you do this,” Faye asked her husband standing in front of him. Her emotions ran wild and she
began pounding on his chest. “Why?”
“Mother, all of us can make sure he doesn’t come back,” Nicole commented taking her mother in her arms.
“Get him out of here,” Faye ordered. “I’ll do it.”
After the dust had settled with the adults in the study the teens decided to have some time alone in the
billiards room. Mimi was standing in the corner talking to Belle and Chloe with Shawn playing pool with
Brady. Phillip was watching a basketball game at the bar alone miserable because he knew he had lost
everyone.
“Brady, what am I going to do,” Shawn asked quietly.
“Apologize,” Brady answered.
“What about the kiss,” Shawn wondered.
“Did she kiss him back,” Brady questioned.
“I don’t know,” Shawn stated.
“Don’t you think you should find out before you throw away the best girl you will ever be able to catch. I
mean I don’t know what my sister sees in you, but it must be something,” Brady laughed.
“Look at us,” Belle told Mimi and Chloe.
“What about it,” Mimi wondered.
“We are miserable,” Chloe stated.
“Every single one of us has messed up,” Belle admitted. “We need to fix it.”
Belle stomped over to Shawn Douglas Brady had dragged him outside on the patio. Chloe caught on and
went to talk to Phillip, but the look on Brady’s eyes was of shock and concern. Mimi went over to distract
Brady knowing that each couple had to solve their problems before all of them became friends again.
“Belle, what are you doing,” Shawn asked once they reached her final destination.
“I am making my dreams come true. Shawn Douglas Brady, you can be the most irrational man that ever
set foot on Earth, but for several reasons I am in love with you,” Belle explained. “What happened with
Phillip was all Phillip. I had nothing to do with it. I understand why you did what you did keeping Jan’s
secret from me. But when Phillip kissed me I didn’t retaliate.”
“I know, I am sorry. Wait. Did you say what I think you did,” Shawn asked.
“I sure did. I can’t stand being away from you,” Belle admitted.
“Belle, I love you,” Shawn whispered in her ear.
Inside of the room Chloe was sitting next to Phillip hoping to dissolve their problems.” Chloe wondered.
“No, not really. Everyone just has there own thing to do, so I figured I would watch this,” Phillip answered.
“Why did you kiss her? One of these days you will find that perfect woman, but why mess with something
that is destined to be,” Chloe commented.
“If you are interested in Brady, don’t let me stop you. I know for a fact that he cares deeply for you,” Phillip
admitted.
Belle and Shawn came running into the room screaming. The smiles on their face everyone knew something
special had happened.
“He told me he loved me,” Belle shouted.
“Phillip, I want you to know that I don’t blame you for kissing my hot girlfriend,” Shawn stated.
“We need to get past this and start our final year in high school as friends,” Mimi explained.
“What about me,” Brady asked.
“Well, you be will be dating Chloe and you are related to almost all of us, so you’re one of us,” Shawn
laughed.
“I’ll be what,” Brady and Chloe asked.
“You’ll be dating,” Phillip stated.
“Guys, let’s not let anything keep us apart,” Belle commented.
“Time for group hug,” Mimi replied.
The group of teens came around each other smiling and laughing knowing that through the years no matter
what would happen they would know how much they meant to one another. Jan opened the door noticing the
group, and felt a pain in her heart. Belle noticed her instantly and held out her arms to Jan.
“Jan, come join us,” Belle said.
“Hey, Jan,” everyone else replied.
Jan walked into the group grinning hysterically. She might not have been one of them last year, last month,
or even last week, but now she was part of the group. Belle, Brady, Chloe, Jan, Mimi, Phillip, and Shawn
were in for the ride of their lives.
Author: CRene
Rating: PG13
Summary: After surviving the events of Puerto Rico the teens come home to more lies, secrets, and
betrayals.
**Note: Banner created by AndieMc**
Chapter 1
On the bright morning the three teens walked down the beach. They had finally made it out of the cavern
and were trying to find some sign of human life. Belle was exhausted, dirty, and starving. Her feet were
getting tired from walking for so long that Shawn was holding her up.
“I don’t think I can go any further,” Belle cried.
“I don’t think we will have too,” Phillip yelled. “Look over there.”
The three friends were staring at the lifeboats that were on the beach. Brady and Chloe were standing next
to the boats with Nicole. Belle began to run towards her brother. Brady Black’s eyes lit up when he say his
‘Tink’ running towards him that he ran to her.
“Brady, I thought I would never see you again,” Belle cried.
“Tink, are you okay,” Brady asked holding on for dear life to his baby sister.
“I am so happy to see you,” Belle said.
“Brady, how did you find us,” Shawn asked.
“Mimi, told us what island you were on,” Chloe answered.
“Nicole, what are you doing here,” Phillip asked trying to avoid Chloe.
“I am here to make sure you three are okay. Victor sent me here since we know who tried to go after Mrs.
Horton’s ruby,” Nicole replied.
“How do you know about the ruby,” Shawn questioned.
“I told him. We knew that you were in trouble and Mimi told us about Paul,” Chloe commented.
“There is something you guys need to know. Paul is Nicole’s father and his last name isn’t Garcia. The last
name is Mendez,” Brady told them.
“What,” the three teens shouted.
“Can we just get off of this island,” Belle begged.
“Let’s go,” Brady said.
They got on the two life boats heading back to the yacht that was waiting for them a few hundred feet out in
the ocean. Once they arrived on the yacht they were greeted by Bo, Hope, Victor, John, and Marlena. The
parents held their children in their arms, realizing that through all they had survived it was better to have
their children safe.
“Mom, we found the ruby,” Shawn whispered to Hope.
“Grams didn’t want you risking your life to get the ruby back,” Bo interrupted.
“Mrs. Horton is worth it,” Belle said coming up behind Shawn.
“She has been nothing but kind to the people of Salem. This was her reward for all of the things she does for
us,” Phillip commented trying to help.
“The look on Great Grams’ face will be worth every minute we spent on that island,” Shawn replied.
The teens warmed up and within an hour were on a jet back home. Belle needed her sleep but her mind kept
rushing back to the revelation that she was heading back to Salem. Standing alone in the back of the plane
looking out at the ocean below her, Belle wanted some time alone. She noticed that Shawn had not said
much to her since they were rescued. Was the moments they shared together a summer fling? Would they
continue where they left off?
“Penny for your thoughts,” the voice asked behind her.
Belle turned to see Shawn standing in front of her. She wasn’t sure if she wanted to tell him or not.
“Just thinking about when we get home,” Belle answered truthfully.
“I know what you’re thinking. Let me put it this way,” Shawn said kissing her passionately not caring who
would notice. “Brady and your father will start to wonder why I have a silly grin on my face when I am with
you.”
“Why a silly grin,” she asked blushing.
“Because I am crazy for you and I don’t care who knows it,” Shawn said kissing her taking her hands in his.
“I was hoping that you would say that,” Belle whispered.
“What did you think that once we got back to Salem I was going to change my mind about us,” Shawn
questioned.
“I wasn’t sure,” Belle admitted.
“Belle this trip a lot has happened between us. Sometimes it was the most exciting others it was
terrifying,” he said. “I will treasure not just finding Great Grams ruby, but you as well.”
Shawn kissed his girlfriend once more than lead her to their families. Hope noticed instantly that his son
was holding Belle’s hand. Deep down Hope knew that the summer had been good to Shawn and Belle’s
relationship. Marlena took note of the twinkle in her baby girl’s eyes.
Across from where Shawn and Belle were sitting were Brady and Chloe. Chloe couldn’t help being worried
about Phillip. Chloe knew she had to speak to him, but would certain people let her.
“Brady, I’ll be right back,” Chloe declared standing up and walking towards Phillip who was at the front of
the plane.
Phillip noticed the closeness of Brady and Chloe. Was it finally over between Chloe and him? Did she fall for
Brady over the summer? Chloe was confused on her feelings towards Phillip. He was the first guy ever to
notice her and to love her. Chloe was in love with him also, but was it enough. Brady, on the other hand,
challenged her like no one else.
“Are you okay,” Chloe asked touching Phillip’s shoulder.
“I’m glad I am going home,” Phillip replied.
“I was so worried about you,” Chloe admitted.
“Were you? It looks like Brady was there for you,” Phillip mentioned.
“Don’t be like this, Phillip. When Nicole had realized that Paul was on that island with you, I began to worry
that I would never see you again or for that matter Shawn or Belle,” Chloe explained.
“I want you to be happy, Chloe. If that means being with me, then it’s wonderful, but if it is Brady that is
fine also. I promised Belle that no matter what I wasn’t going to be that jealous madman like before,”
Phillip commented. “Your happiness is the only thing that matters.”
“Phillip, I think that is the nicest thing you have said to me in months. I need time to figure out who I am
before I date anymore. That doesn’t mean that we can’t be friends,” Chloe said.
“If that is what you want, I can handle it,” Phillip replied. “I think I am going to talk to my father.”
Chloe stood there shocked about her conversation with Phillip had went. She had hoped that the summer
had changed Phillip and it looked like it did. Now, though, Chloe wanted to find her father.
“Dad, did you see Mimi or Jan before you guys came,” Shawn asked sitting down next to his father.
“What about Jan,” Chloe asked coming up towards Shawn.
“They got close on the trip,” Phillip mentioned overhearing the conversation.
“Phil, don’t start,” Shawn shot back.
“Jan was admitted to the hospital as soon as they got back,” Marlena interrupted.
“Why? What happened,” Belle asked.
In the back of his mind Shawn knew why Jan could have been admitted. He promised Jan that he would
never tell anyone about Paul raping her. Hopefully Jan took Shawn’s advice about getting checked out after
the rape.
“I am not sure,” Marlena answered her daughter.
“Was she ever around Paul,” Nicole shockingly wondered out loud.
“All the time,” Phillip revealed.
“Oh my god,” Nicole remarked. “He did it again!”
Nicole knew that her father had another agenda on that island. Paul Mendez had violated another teenager’
s life. Nicole had to speak to Jan Spears as soon as she returned to Salem. If it was true her father would
pay for taking another innocent child’s innocence away.
Chapter 2
“Nicole, do you think he would have done that to a teenager,” Victor whispered.
“I was younger than her,” Nicole snapped.
“What are you two talking about? What did Paul do,” Bo interrogated them.
“Dad, there is something you need to know,” Shawn began to explain.
“Please have a seat and buckle up we are now descending upon Salem Airport,” the pilot announced over the
intercom.
Everyone had a seat and Nicole and Victor sat in between Shawn. He knew what they had wanted, but if
Nicole knew what kind of man Paul was, she could testify against him. Shawn promised Jan that he wouldn’
t tell anyone, yet here was the chance to put him away for life.
Belle sat next to Phillip and buckled up. She had to talk to Phillip on what Victor and Nicole were talking
about.
“Phillip, what is going on,” Belle asked.
“I don’t know, but it must be important to Nicole,” Phillip mentioned.
“Shawn knows something,” Belle admitted.
“Why do you think that,” Phillip wondered.
“Nicole and your father wouldn’t be sitting next to him looking like he was being put on trial,” Belle
explained.
“What do you know, Shawn,” Nicole ordered Shawn.
“If you know something tell us. Paul Mendez is not a person to mess with,” Victor stated.
“I promised her,” Shawn acknowledged.
“This isn’t the first time,” Nicole cried.
“A Brady keeps their promises,” Shawn tried to argue. He knew that his grandfather and Nicole were right.
If he told them what Paul did to Jan and Jan found out she would never trust him again. Shawn knew how
much Jan appreciated him. Witnessing first hand how Jason treats her, he wanted someone she could trust.
“Paul raped Jan on that island.”
“He will pay for hurting her, believe me,” Nicole stated.
Minutes later the plane landed and everyone was ready to get back to their lives in Salem. Nicole had a
mission, which was to find her father. Belle had to find out what Shawn was keeping from her. Phillip had
to try to move on with his life now that Chloe was no longer part of it. Shawn needed to find Jan and make
sure she was okay. While Chloe wanted to find out why Nancy was keeping her father’s identity a secret.
“Before everyone heads off, there is something I want to say,” Victor shouted before everyone left his jet.
“Now that my son, my grandson, and Belle are home, I want all of us to have a celebration at the mansion
tomorrow.”
“Thanks, Victor, but I don’t think that is such a great idea,” John replied.
“Dad, why not,” Brady asked.
“It’s okay, John, let Victor do this. The kids deserve it after what they did for Alice,” Marlena stated.
“We will be there,” everyone simultaneously agreed.
Victor had his own agenda on having the dinner. He wanted to keep on eye on Chloe Lane stayed and John
Black. Chloe needed to stay away from Phillip and Brady and Victor would stop at nothing to make sure it
happened. John was a threat to him now that he hired Kate for Basic Black. Victor wanted to make Kate
pay for trying to kill him months ago.
An hour later, Shawn was walking through the hallway of Salem Hospital. He needed to see Jan to make
sure she was okay. What Shawn didn’t realize was he had a shadow by the name of Isabella Black. Belle
knew something was going on with Jan and Shawn, but she didn’t know what. Shawn reached Jan’s room,
but he had the strangest feeling that someone was following him.
“Jan,” Shawn whispered walking into the room. She laid there looking out of the window not aware of the
presence of the room. Jan looked fragile and pale like she had some deadly disease. “Jan.”
She finally turned her head and noticed the young man that helped save her life. Jan knew that Shawn was
thought to be dead, but when she tried to tell Mr. Woods that Paul had something to do with it. She was
scared that Shawn was really dead, the young man who helped in her time of need, could have been gone for
good. Now Shawn Brady was standing in her room.
“Shawn, I am so glad you are okay,” Jan cried.
“Are you,” Shawn whispered. “What happened?
“I can’t go through this alone. Stay with me,” she weeped.
“Jan, what is going on? Did you tell the police about what happened?”
“On the plane I started to feel queasy. I wasn’t sure if it was from hearing that you were dead or of what
happened before. Suddenly I was overcome with pain in my abdomen. Ms. Perez had an ambulance at the
airport when we arrived. There did an exam on me and found out that I could be pregnant. I couldn’t tell
them,” Jan bawled.
“You’re what,” Belle shouted appearing in the doorway.
“Belle,” Shawn uttered.
“Jan, why is my boyfriend here and not yours,” Belle ordered.
Jan turned her head crying not able to look at Shawn or Belle. She couldn’t believe that Belle had found out
that she could be pregnant.
“Belle, come with me,” Shawn stated grabbing her arm and taking her out of the room. When he was farther
away from Jan’s room he turned to his girlfriend and knew that she had followed him.
“What is going on,” Belle asked pulling her arm away from Shawn.
“More like what are you doing here,” Shawn ordered.
“I followed you. I know when you are lying and the look you gave us on that plane before was a look of
despair. You were going to tell us something about Jan. What happened between you and Jan?”
“I can’t tell you that,” Shawn replied shaking his head.
“You can’t or you won’t,” Belle told him.
“I made a promise.”
“You also made one to me.”
“I know. Belle, please,” Shawn begged. “Trust me.”
“I don’t know if I can.”
Belle walked away knowing she wasn’t going to win this fight. Whatever he was hiding was big and it had to
do with Jan. She couldn’t believe that Jan was pregnant. Why wasn’t Jason there for her? Belle wandered
aimlessly around Salem not knowing where she was going. She wanted to trust Shawn, but he was lying to
her. He never lied to her and now that they were dating he was keeping secrets.
Shawn wanted to tell Belle the truth, but he had to talk to Jan. He walked back into her room noticing the
tears that wouldn’t stop. He had never seen her cry before and now she couldn’t stop. She seemed like one of
the china doll’s Belle had in her room when they were younger. Belle would yell at Shawn for even touching
her doll collection.
“Did you tell her,” Jan muttered.
“No.”
“Why not? She followed you all the way here. She obviously cares about you, Shawn.”
“I made a promise.”
“I can tell from the look in her eyes that you are breaking her heart. Why,” Jan wondered.
“You! I am breaking her heart because of you,” Shawn Brady proclaimed.
Chapter 3
“Belle,” Phillip said walking upon the small blond sitting on the bench. The palm of her hands were in her
face and the tears were flowing. Belle couldn’t believe that the one person she could always trust in was
keeping the truth from her. Her and Shawn had finally been bought together and now Jan Spears was
tearing them apart.
“Phillip, he is keeping secrets from me. Jan is doing this to me,” Belle cried.
Phillip sat next to Belle holding her in his arms. Phillip couldn’t understand why Shawn was breaking Belle’
s heart. He had learned the hard way how simple it is to lose the one you love. Belle needed someone to help
her through this and Phillip owed her.
“What is going on here,” Jason asked walking up to Phillip holding Belle in his arms.
“Jason, this isn’t the time,” Phillip
“Yes it is,” Belle screamed. “Why are you not with Jan? She is going to be having your baby and you are
here.”
“My baby that’s impossible,” Jason stated.
“Jan’s pregnant,” Phillip asked.
“Jason isn’t at the hospital with Jan, but Shawn is,” Belle commented.
“Wait, maybe Shawn is the father,” Jason replied. “Because I know for a fact it isn’t mine.”
“No, he wouldn’t do that,” Belle said.
“You probably wouldn’t give it up, so he went to the one that would,” Jason indicated.
“Shawn would not cheat on Belle,” Phillip remarked.
Jason walked off, but Belle was hurt deeply by Jason’s comments. She remembered that last night Shawn
and her were about to make love. Belle had finally stopped them before it went to far. She was afraid
Shawn was angry, but at the moment he wasn’t. Did he go find Jan instead?
“Don’t listen to him. There is no way Shawn would cheat on you with Jan,” Phillip admitted.
Phillip put his arms around Belle trying to comfort his close friend. He knew that Shawn would not sleep
with Jan. If Jason was not the father of Jan’s baby then who was?
At Chloe’s house Brady was sitting in the Jeep with her. There wasn’t two words spoken between them since
they landed back in Salem. Chloe’s mind was drifting back to Phillip and they conversation on the plane.
Brady had fallen for Chloe, but he knew that her heart belonged to Phillip.
“I will see you soon, right,” Brady said.
“I don’t know,” Chloe admitted.
“I hope you and I can still work together even though Phillip is back,” Brady stated.
“Maybe,” Chloe answered.
“I enjoyed every minute of our time together,” Brady stated.
“So did I. I have to go.”
Chloe jumped out of the jeep running towards her house. At the last minute she felt the urge to turn around.
Her feelings for Brady had grown into something more than hostility. Brady bought something out in her
that she hadn’t felt even when she was Phillip. What was this feeling she had for Brady Black?
Turning around to see the look of despair on his face. She waved goodbye to Brady smiling in the process.
The look on Brady’s turned into a smile like the one he had from the duet at the gazebo.
Brady pulled away thrilled that his baby sister was back, but also that Chloe and him were beginning a
new found relationship. Even though, he tried to hide his feelings towards her, he couldn’t stop anymore. His
emotions for Chloe were building deeper and deeper. How was he supposed to go after her when her heart
still belonged to his Uncle Phil? Since the night Chloe and Brady met they had a connection deep inside
their soul. They had a shared passion that no one could understand.
Brady headed home to share some precious time with his little sister. He knew that something had
happened between Belle and Shawn on the island. How close did his sister and Shawn come on that island?
He loved his sister with all his heart. The one person who in the last year had believed in him the most was
Belle. She was defending him constantly to her mother. And now these days Marlena and Brady were
getting along coming to an agreement about his mother. He didn’t hate Marlena because without the love
that his father and Marlena shared there would be no little sister to look after.
In the Salem park Kevin was walking hand in hand with Mimi. They had went on their official first date.
Kevin had taken Mimi to a movie and to the Brady Pub for dinner. Kevin had decided to take Mimi for a
romantic walk through the park in the moonlight.
“Did you have a nice time at the Pub,” Kevin asked.
“I love the Pub. I go there all the time with Belle and Shawn,” Mimi answered.
“I never been there before,” Kevin admitted.
“As you know Shawn’s grandparents own it. There are really great people,” Mimi stated. “Plus they have the
best French fries.”
“You know what else is French,” Kevin laughed.
Kevin, then turned to Mimi gently touching her chin and kissing her passionately. Their hands began to
roam each other’s bodies. This wasn’t a soul around them, but they knew it was wrong. They were off the
island and it still felt right to them. Mimi couldn’t believe that she had fallen for Kevin Lambert. While
Kevin couldn’t believe that he was kissing Miriam Lockhart. Even though, it was something neither of them
could imagine a couple months ago it felt so right to them now.
Kevin heard somebody a few feet away. He stopped kissing Mimi instantly afraid of who they would find.
“Why did you stop,” Mimi asked breathless.
“I hear someone,” Kevin answered.
“It sounds like someone crying,” Mimi stated.
Kevin and Mimi looked through the bushes and noticed the two teenagers sitting on the bench. The young
man had his arms around the blond female. Mimi couldn’t fathom why they were in each other’s arms. Then
the unthinkable happened. The young man reached in and kissed her passionately.
“Oh my god,” Mimi shouted.
“Mimi, sshh,” Kevin whispered.
“What was that,” the female asked pushing him away.
“It sounded like Mimi,” he answered.
“Well, Phillip, it was,” Mimi Lockhart replied coming out of the bushes.
“Mimi, this isn’t what you think,” Belle stated. She couldn’t believe that Phillip had kissed her. Belle wasn’t
sure what to think of the situation.
“I don’t want to hear it, Belle. How could you do this to Shawn,” Mimi asked her best friend.
“It was nothing, Mimi,” Belle admitted.
The look on Phillip’s face was pure sorrow. Not only did Chloe leave him, but Belle was angry that he had
kissed her.
“I wonder if Shawn will take it that way,” Mimi argued grabbing Kevin’s arm walking away. Once they were
out of sight Belle did the only thing she could do.
“How could you do that,” Belle shouted slapping Phillip across the face.
“I just thought that you needed comforting,” Phillip replied.
“Comforting. You kissed me when you knew how I feel about Shawn,” Belle yelled. “How could you? I will
never forgive you.”
Belle stomped off knowing what would happen if Shawn found out about the kiss. She had to find Shawn
before Mimi did. Belle was hoping Shawn was still at the hospital with Jan. Belle didn’t want Shawn to
find out that Phillip had kissed her. She couldn’t understand why Phillip had kissed her. Was he falling for
her? Being friends for years had changed in the matter of minutes. Would her and Phillip ever be the same
again? Would Belle and Shawn ever be the same? What would happen when Shawn found out his best
friend kissed his girlfriend?
Chapter 4
“Why me,” Jan asked wondering out loud why Shawn was breaking Belle Black’s heart.
“It’s my fault this happened. I shoud have known better. My family has taught me that if looks like a duck,
sounds like a duck, it must be a duck. I had the feeling that Paul should not have trusted, but I was to
worried about my Great Grams to even consider that he could be dangerous,” Shawn answered. He knew it
was his fault that Jan was raped. Shawn felt an obligation to be there for Jan.
“This had nothing to do with you , Shawn,” Jan admitted. “It’s Paul’s fault.”
“No, it isn’t,” Nicole Walker said walking into the room.
“What are you doing here,” Shawn asked.
“Paul Garcia (Mendez) is my father,” Nicole replied. “This isn’t the first time he has done something like
this. Jan, I know you are hurting right now, but I need your help to put this sick bastard away for life.”
“I don’t think I can do that,” Jan admitted.
“He was just released from prison for doing the same thing to me. When I was just fourteen years old he
began the terror of destroyijng my childhood. I was not his only victim, he was abusive to my mother and
brother. Don’t you see he could be out there doing this again to some helpless child,” Nicole explained.
“Please.”
“Jan, it’s the only way. I know you are scar of what people will find out. But they will be on your side. You are
not alone. Nicole and I will be with you the entire way,” Shawn stated.
“My parents will be disappointed in me if they even care,” Jan cried.
“If they don’t they are not worth it,” Nicole replied. “If things get to hectic at the house I am sure I can get
Victor to let you stay at the mansion.”
“Oh I am sure Phillip will like that,” Jan laughed.
“Phillip is a great guy once you get use to him,” Shawn admitted.
On the other side of town Mimi was knocking at the Brady residence hoping that Shawn would be there. She
had to tell him what she had witnessed at the park between Belle and Phillip. How could Belle kiss Phillip?
Mimi knew how crazy Belle was for Shawn. Was it just the fact that Phillip was left with no one since Chloe
decided to dump him?
“I don’t think this is such a good idea, Mimi,” Kevin told her at the door.
“I can’t let this happen. Belle and Shawn have waited to long to be together and I am not going to let Phillip
mess that up,” Mimi admitted knocking on the door repeatedly.
“Hold up I’m coming,” Hope yelled. Answering the door with J.T in her arms Hope was shocked to see Mimi
with Kevin Lambert.
“Mimi, what can I do for you,” Hope asked.
“I was wondering if Shawn is here,” Mimi answered. “It is very omportant that I speak to him.”
“No, he said he was going for a walk. It has been an hour and he isn’t hime, yet. I will tell him that you
stopped by when he gets here,” Hope said.
“Thank you, Mrs. Brady,” Mimi replied.
Kevin and Mimi walked away from the house. Mimi wasn’t sure where Shawn could be, but if he found out
from someone else what happened he would never forgive Phillip.
“What about Jan,” Kevin questioned. “Shawn was worried about Jan for awhile. Maybe he went to the
hopsital it visit her.”
“What would I do without you, Kevin,” Mimi stated givcing Kevin a sweet kiss on the lips.
“I hope you don’t have to find out anytime soon,” Kevin laughed.
Belle was walking by the per not knowing if she should go visit Shawn at the hosptial or not. Telling him the
truth of what happened could break his heart, so the hospital was out of the question. She heard footsteps
behind her, so she quickly picked up the pace. Belle only hoped that it was Phillip following her, but that
didn’t give her much comfort.
“Well, if it isn’t the sweet blond,” he yelled jumping in front of her.
“You, what are you doing here,” Belle screeched.
“You took my ruby,” Paul whispered. He grabbed her and threw her down on the ground.
"No," Belle screamed. Paul was struggling with the petite blond while he climbed on top of her. Belle was
kicking and screaming, but it was no use. He was having more trouble with her than he did with Jan. Paul
punched Belle in the face and in the gut to quiet her up. She screamed with agony praying someone would
hear her.
"Get off of her now," Brady yelled kicking Paul off of his baby sister.
"Brady, help," Belle whispered.
She hid in the corner all curled up in a ball. Her clothes were torn from Paul, but it didn't bother her as long
as he was being punished. Brady was beating him up as best as he could when help arrived. Bo and Abe
were walking the pier when he noticed the two men fighting. Bo grabbed Brady and Abe took Paul and the
look on Abe's face was of terror. Abe knew whom he was dealing with and when he noticed Belle hiding in
the corner crying he knew what had happened.
"Bo, take Brady and Belle to the hospital. I will take Paul here to the station," Abe told him.
"We don't even know what happened," Bo replied.
"Yes, we do. Do you see Belle in the corner crying? This is Paul Mendez, Brandon and Nicole Walker's
father," Abe stated.
A few minutes later Bo was carrying Belle into the emergency room. Brady was right beside him with some
cuts and bruises. Mimi and Kevin were walking through the hospital going to Jan's room when they noticed
Bo carrying Belle.
"Kevin, go upstairs and find Shawn. Tell him Belle was bought in," Mimi ordered. "Please, I have to be with
her."
Kevin went running for the stairs knowing it would be faster. When he finally reached Jan's room, he
couldn't believe the visitors she had.
"Kevin, what are you doing here," Shawn asked noticing how Kevin was out of breath.
"Belle*it's Belle. Detective Brady bought her in a few minutes ago. It looked like she was attacked," Kevin
mumbled out of breath.
"My father," Nicole stated.
"Jan, I will be back later," Shawn said waving goodbye running out.
"Wait one minute, I'm coming," Nicole interrupted.
"So am I," Jan replied slowly coming out of her room.
When they got to the emergency room, there was Brady in one room getting bandaged up and a few stitches.
When Shawn saw the fragile being that he had lied to his heart began to break into tiny pieces. He knew
that only one man could have done that to his 'Perfect Girl'.
"Belle, what happened," Shawn asked.
"Paul, he tried to rape me," Belle cried. She reached for him; she needed to fill his arms around her. Belle
wanted to feel safe again.
"I will not let him get away with this," Shawn whispered.
"Where is he," Nicole asked.
"Abe took him down to the station," Bo answered.
"Detective Brady, there is something I need to tell you," Jan mumbled. "On the island he raped me. Belle,
that is why Shawn wouldn't tell you the truth. I was ashamed of what happened. Shawn promised me he
wouldn't say anything on the island and he kept his promise."
"Now Belle got hurt in the process," Shawn stated holding his girl in his arms who would not stop crying.
All of them knew this wasn't over. It was just the beginning of the end. What would happen if Shawn found
out what happened earlier in the night? Would Mimi finally confess to Shawn now that Belle was in pain?
Would Paul pay for his crimes? No one knew the answers, but they knew it wasn't over.
Chapter 5
Belle got checked out and was released an hour later. She didn't want Shawn to leave her sight, but she
knew that Jan also needed him. She had realized that she could share Shawn with Jan because of what had
happened.
In Jan's room, Shawn was helping Jan lay back down when Jason came rushing into the room.
"Why you little cheating whore," Jason shouted.
"Jason, calm down, it's not what you think," Shawn began to explain before Jason decked him.
"Why should I believe anything you have to say," Jason yelled punching Shawn once again.
"What is with all of these fights today," Kevin asked walking into the room. He went straight for Jason and
got him to get off of Shawn.
"You are pregnant with Shawn's baby," Jason yelled. "You want me to be calm. You wouldn't let me have sex
with you, but the almighty Brady does?"
"It isn't like that," Nicole shouted coming into the room. "You don't deserve a courageous young lady like Jan
Spears. From what I understand you have treated this lady like trash when you should have been taken out
with it along time ago. Get your butt out of this hospital room before I call the authorities."
Jason stomped out of the room not knowing if he would ever see Jan again. Why did Jan sleep with Shawn?
What did Shawn have that Jason didn't? Maybe since Belle was free he could make a play for her?
"Why are you being so kind to me," Jan asked politely.
"You deserve it. I went through some tough times when I was younger, and making many mistakes I could
never take back. I don't want you to end up like me," Nicole answered. "You should get some rest. Tomorrow
we will take down my father for the last time."
Before Belle left the hospital it was time for Mimi to give her the talk that could ruin her life. Mimi knew it
had to be done, but now after everything that had happened in the last two hours how would it affect Shawn.
"Why haven't you told him," Belle whispered to Mimi.
"I can't not now. I wasn't going to do it to hurt you, Belle. You are my best friend. I know that you have had
romantic feelings for Shawn Brady ever since we were five years old and he would put sand in your hair and
call you 'perfect girl'. I don't want anyone to break you apart and that even includes Phillip Kiriakis. If
Shawn ever found out that Phillip kissed you he would never forgive you either of you."
"You are right, Mimi. I can't," Shawn interrupted. Belle's face went into total shock when she heard that
voice. "How could you?"
"Shawn, it's not what you think. Mimi didn't get to see what happened later," Belle replied.
"What you guys decided to lip lock some more," Shawn argued.
"No, I slapped him. I told him that I am with you and only you and he had no right to kiss me. I was upset
with you because of Jan. He was comforting me, then out of the blue he kissed me. I didn't want it to
happen," Belle cried.
"Just like us," Shawn acclaimed walking away.
"No, Shawn, please*Shawn*. come back*come back," Belle sobbed falling to her knees. She couldn't believe
that this was happening.
"Let me take you home, Tink," Brady stated picking up his sister.
"I'm sorry, Belle," Mimi murmured. "Kevin, take me home, please."
Twenty minutes later Belle was tossing and turning in her bed trying to sleep. Visions of Shawn Brady
bounced in her head, the memories of their first kiss just a short time ago, to the Last Blast, and to the first
time she knew something bonded them together. Belle couldn't believe that Phillip had kissed her. She
didn't enjoy as much as Shawn's kisses, but it wasn't the worst either. How was she going to make this up to
Shawn?
Shawn Brady was sitting on his bed wondering what had happened to his life in twenty-four hours? Maybe
he should have stayed on that island with Belle. She was right that things would change once they came
back to Salem. Just maybe they were not meant to be?
In the Kiriakis mansion, Victor and Nicole were putting the final pieces of the puzzle together when Phillip
walked in.
"My son, I am so happy that you are back," Victor proclaimed.
"Well, the way things are going I should be sent back to the island," Phillip replied.
"What are you talking about," Victor asked.
"During this summer, I lost Chloe, now in the past three hours I have lost Mimi, Belle and Shawn. I have no
one," Phillip moaned.
"After tomorrow night things will be right again," Nicole announced.
"What are you talking about," Phillip questioned.
"The guest list tomorrow night will consist of Shawn and his parents, Belle and her parents along with
Brady, Chloe and the Wesley's, Jan Spears, Mimi Lockhart and Mrs. Alice Horton," Nicole explained.
"Along with a special guest."
"What is the occasion," Phillip asked.
"It is time to celebrate the beginning of the end," Nicole chuckled leaving the room.
"Father, what are you and Nicole up to," Phillip asked.
"Just finishing up a little business son," Victor said walking out of the room.
Phillip was worried what would happen tomorrow night at this place. Did Shawn already know the truth
about the kiss? Would Chloe and Brady be together? Who was this special guest? Phillip was worried that
Nicole and her father were planning something big that could destroy lives. But whose lives would be in the
crossfire?
Chapter 6
"Hi, Grams," Hope Brady said walking into her Grandma Horton's house. After returning home the
following day Shawn had finally decided it was time to give Alice Horton her ruby back.
"My dear, how are you and the men," Alice asked kissing J.T and Hope on the cheek and giving Shawn a hug.
"Shawn has a surprise for you," Hope answered.
"I know about the ruby Great Grandpa gave you for your anniversary. How it came up missing at the jeweler
and you replaced before Great Grandpa ever found out. On your class trip, we found the ruby for you," Shawn
explained.
Shawn pulled the ruby out of his pocket and in the palm of his hand was the ruby Alice had lost so many
years ago. Her eyes were filled with tears of sorrow of not having her Tom there to share in this wonderful
time and tears of joy. She couldn't believe that her great grandson had risked his life to find the ruby that
meant so much to her husband.
"Jennifer had told me that she informed you of the ruby. I was hoping that you wouldn't go try to find it. The
danger of searching for that ruby almost cost your friend's and your lives. I didn't want you do that for me,"
Alice cried. "But I am very proud of you, Shawn Douglas.
"Thank you, Great Grams," Shawn hugged his great grandmother. He knew how much this had meant to
her. He would do anything for his family and he thought he would do anything for his friends. After finding
out the day before that his best friend had kissed his girlfriend, he didn't know what to think.
At the Black residence Belle was laying on her bed covered up in her blankets with Buddy Bear around her
arms. She had tossed and turned all night emotionally drained from the events the past twenty-four hours.
Belle wanted to hide in her room all day, not even shopping could cure this heartache.
"Tink, are you coming out of there. Marlena made you blueberry pancakes, your favorite," Brady asked.
"Not now, Brady," Belle cried.
Brady walked in the door finding his sister sobbing on her bed. In her arms was Buddy Bear and next to her
bed was the picture of Shawn and Belle from the Last Blast. Brady knew what had happened, but why he
didn't know. He had to make sure that Shawn knew how much Belle cared for him.
"What are you doing," Belle cried.
"I am getting you out of bed. I am not going to let you mope all day," Brady stated. "We have dinner plans
tonight at Grandpa Vic's."
"I am not going," Belle responded.
The conversation was interrupted by Belle's telephone ringing. She reached over to pick it up hoping it
wasn't Phillip.
"Hello," she mumbled.
"Hey, Belle," Chloe said. "I was thinking you and I could go to Salem Place to look for a new outfit for dinner
at the Kiriakis mansion tonight."
"I am not really up to shopping," Belle replied.
"It has been ages since you and I have had a little girl talk. Come on, Belle, it will be fun," Chloe begged.
"Fine, I will meet you in an hour at your place."
"How about I meet you there. I wanted to speak to Brady about something."
"Fine," Belle confirmed hanging up. She threw her head back on the pillow sighing. "You told her, didn't you?"
"Tell her what, Tink," Brady smiled.
"What happened between Shawn, Phillip, and I," Belle shouted.
Belle got ready dragging her feet the entire way. She didn't want to go to Mr. Kiriakis' tonight, because she
knew that war could break out. Once Chloe arrived Belle noticed the body language between Chloe and
Brady. Instantly Belle knew that those two had become close during the summer. Would Phillip be
devastated once he found out? Yet why would Belle think of Phillip's feelings when he didn't care about hers.
At the Horton's Shawn was sitting in the living room with his great grandmother. She noticed how quiet he
had been since he had arrived a couple hours ago. Alice knew that something very powerful was on Shawn's
mind.
"Did Belle Black help in the search for the ruby," Alice asked knowing the answer already.
"Yea," Shawn mumbled.
"She is a very astonishing young lady, don't you think?"
"Yea, Grams."
"Miss Black is also very popular with the boys of Salem High, if I recall?"
"She sure is," Shawn spoke sternly.
"I remember when you were a little boy and everywhere you went there was Miss Black. Now that you two
have grown up into young adults, things haven't changed. Your great grandfather and I were childhood
friends. Did you know that?"
"No. It is different with Belle and I."
"No, it's not. You care for her deeply, Shawn Douglas. I can see it in your eye's when you hear her name.
Whatever is going on with your life right now, don't toss it away. Your relationship with Miss Black is as
precious as mine was with your Great Grandfather. Someone like her only comes around once in a lifetime."
"Thanks, great grams. I have to go home and get ready for dinner."
"Son, please remember what I said," Alice pleaded.
"I will. And every death defying moment we spent finding that ruby was worth it," Shawn explained giving
his great grandmother a hug goodbye.
Now it was time to go home and get ready for the dinner at Grandpa Victor's mansion. Shawn wasn't sure
how things would turn out by the end of the night. Did Phillip harbor feelings towards Belle? Could Shawn
forgive either of them? Was his Great Grandmother Alice right about Belle being the one? Belle had meant
so much to him for many years. He would do anything for Isabella Black and proved it time and time again.
After the island adventure they shared together bought them together would Phillip tear them apart?
Shawn was confused about the way relationships worked. Being a teenager was not the time to settle down
with a serious girlfriend. Yet his feelings for Belle ran deep proving that with one kiss from her would make
his knees weak. How could he resist her?
Chapter 7
Knocking on the Kiriakis mansion, Belle was bundle of nerves. She didn’t want to be here, but her father
and brother made her come.
“Izzy, you are shaking,” John stated.
“She is just nervous,” Brady replied.
“Why,” Marlena asked.
“She knows Shawn will be here,” Brady answered.
“Can you stop talking about me like I am not here,” Belle commented.
“Hi, guys,” Bo said coming up behind the Black family. The Brady clan was right next to Bo with Shawn on
one side and Hope on the other.
Shawn looked down on the ground trying not to make eye contact with Belle. As much as he loved her she
had still kissed Phillip.
“How many people did Victor invite,” Craig Wesley asked walking up the mansion.
“All of Salem,” Chloe laughed looking at Brady.
“Grandpa Victor knows how to have a good time,” Brady smiled.
Opening the door was the housekeeper, Ginger, who recognized most of the guest list.
“Come in, please. May I take your coats,” Ginger asked.
After the coats were taken away, Benjamin, the butler lead them to the dining room where Nicole, Victor,
Phillip, and Jan were standing. Shawn’s look of disgust at his Uncle Phillip was something no one ever
expected to see. The tension in the room you could cut with a knife.
“Now that most of you are here, we can get down to business,” Victor stated.
“What is this about,” Nancy questioned.
“This summer and how we are going to handle it,” Nicole answered.
“Ms. Walker, your mother is here,” Benjamin announced.
“Thank you, Benjamin,” Nicole stated.
When Faye Walker entered the room everyone was in awe of her. No one really knew the details of the
relationship of Faye and Nicole. One fact they knew was Paul was married to her and he was abusive.
Dinner was served which consisted of a gourmet meal fit for a king. The guests chatted amongst themselves
making sure not to cross anyone on their hit list. Finally they entered the study where the trial would take
place.
“Can you explain why all of us are here,” Marlena asked.
“Not that we didn’t appreciate dinner, Victor, but Marlena is right,” Bo stated.
“My father,” Nicole replied.
“I am out of here,” Belle remarked standing up to leave the room.
“No,” Shawn shouted. “You are staying here Miss Black.”
”You do’’t have any right to talk to her that way,” Mimi interrupted.
“Stop,” Jan yelled. “You guys don’t get it. Mr. Kiriakis has set this up so not only can I admit what happened
to me, but also for Belle and Nicole.”
“What are you talking about,” Belle asked.
“On that island, Paul raped me. Shawn came upon the incident and he helped me in the time of need. That
is why you noticed the bruises on Shawn’s face because he fought with Paul to save me. Belle, I didn’t mean
to make you angry. I made Shawn promise,” Jan explained.
“This isn’t Paul’s first time,” Nicole announced. “Mr. and Mrs. Wesley, you might want to know why you are
here?”
“That has crossed my mind,” Nancy replied.
“Does this man look familiar,” Abe inquired coming into the room with Paul in handcuffs.
“I thought you were dead,” Nancy replied.
“Nancy,” Craig said.
“Nicole, what is going on,” Faye asked.
“Phillip asked me to look into Chloe’s parentage. And I came upon something shocking and disturbing.
Chloe meet your father,” Nicole declared. “Mr. Paul Mendez.”
“What,” everyone asked.
“How can that be,” Shawn wondered.
“Why,” Craig questioned his wife.
“How could you,” Nancy cried.
“Glad it wasn’t Stefano,” Hope whispered.
“Oh dear,” Marlena said.
“Nancy, confess the truth. Have the bravery to stand up to what you believe in? Don’t let him win,” Jan
ordered.
“Nancy,” Chloe begged to know.
“Fine. The truth is many years ago Paul used me like he did Jan. I didn’t think I could handle raising a baby
whose father was a rapist,” Nancy confessed. “I actually thought he was dead that is why I never told
anyone.”
“If you testify against him he will be going away for life,” Nicole commented.
“You guys will never get away with this,” Paul announced.
“Mother, you are the another piece of the puzzle,” Nicole stated.
“Testify against his abuse,” Abe stated.
“I will testify,” Belle mumbled.
“So will I for the criminal acts that happened on the island,” Shawn said.
“Great, son,” Bo told Shawn.
“Phillip,” Brady asked.
“Yea, me too,” Phillip answered not able to look anyone in the eye.
“How could you do this,” Faye asked her husband standing in front of him. Her emotions ran wild and she
began pounding on his chest. “Why?”
“Mother, all of us can make sure he doesn’t come back,” Nicole commented taking her mother in her arms.
“Get him out of here,” Faye ordered. “I’ll do it.”
After the dust had settled with the adults in the study the teens decided to have some time alone in the
billiards room. Mimi was standing in the corner talking to Belle and Chloe with Shawn playing pool with
Brady. Phillip was watching a basketball game at the bar alone miserable because he knew he had lost
everyone.
“Brady, what am I going to do,” Shawn asked quietly.
“Apologize,” Brady answered.
“What about the kiss,” Shawn wondered.
“Did she kiss him back,” Brady questioned.
“I don’t know,” Shawn stated.
“Don’t you think you should find out before you throw away the best girl you will ever be able to catch. I
mean I don’t know what my sister sees in you, but it must be something,” Brady laughed.
“Look at us,” Belle told Mimi and Chloe.
“What about it,” Mimi wondered.
“We are miserable,” Chloe stated.
“Every single one of us has messed up,” Belle admitted. “We need to fix it.”
Belle stomped over to Shawn Douglas Brady had dragged him outside on the patio. Chloe caught on and
went to talk to Phillip, but the look on Brady’s eyes was of shock and concern. Mimi went over to distract
Brady knowing that each couple had to solve their problems before all of them became friends again.
“Belle, what are you doing,” Shawn asked once they reached her final destination.
“I am making my dreams come true. Shawn Douglas Brady, you can be the most irrational man that ever
set foot on Earth, but for several reasons I am in love with you,” Belle explained. “What happened with
Phillip was all Phillip. I had nothing to do with it. I understand why you did what you did keeping Jan’s
secret from me. But when Phillip kissed me I didn’t retaliate.”
“I know, I am sorry. Wait. Did you say what I think you did,” Shawn asked.
“I sure did. I can’t stand being away from you,” Belle admitted.
“Belle, I love you,” Shawn whispered in her ear.
Inside of the room Chloe was sitting next to Phillip hoping to dissolve their problems.” Chloe wondered.
“No, not really. Everyone just has there own thing to do, so I figured I would watch this,” Phillip answered.
“Why did you kiss her? One of these days you will find that perfect woman, but why mess with something
that is destined to be,” Chloe commented.
“If you are interested in Brady, don’t let me stop you. I know for a fact that he cares deeply for you,” Phillip
admitted.
Belle and Shawn came running into the room screaming. The smiles on their face everyone knew something
special had happened.
“He told me he loved me,” Belle shouted.
“Phillip, I want you to know that I don’t blame you for kissing my hot girlfriend,” Shawn stated.
“We need to get past this and start our final year in high school as friends,” Mimi explained.
“What about me,” Brady asked.
“Well, you be will be dating Chloe and you are related to almost all of us, so you’re one of us,” Shawn
laughed.
“I’ll be what,” Brady and Chloe asked.
“You’ll be dating,” Phillip stated.
“Guys, let’s not let anything keep us apart,” Belle commented.
“Time for group hug,” Mimi replied.
The group of teens came around each other smiling and laughing knowing that through the years no matter
what would happen they would know how much they meant to one another. Jan opened the door noticing the
group, and felt a pain in her heart. Belle noticed her instantly and held out her arms to Jan.
“Jan, come join us,” Belle said.
“Hey, Jan,” everyone else replied.
Jan walked into the group grinning hysterically. She might not have been one of them last year, last month,
or even last week, but now she was part of the group. Belle, Brady, Chloe, Jan, Mimi, Phillip, and Shawn
were in for the ride of their lives.
| THE END |