The Sequel..., Love and Marriage

[TansMom]

Okay you all here's chapter 1 and 2 of the continuation of the story, Return Engagements called Love and Marriage.


Chapter 1--

Love and Marriage


The trip to St. Petersburg had been bliss. It had been completely relaxing and romantic and fun almost too much to bear considering what they were returning home to face. Clint had completely enjoyed the symphony but the ballet and opera left him battling sleep and she tried desperately not to be amused. The museums and countryside were more beautiful than she ever imagined.

They had agreed at the reception not to discuss the “circumstances” of their wedding day until they returned home. Clint had taken her aside, reassured her of his love and devotion and they had forged on with the party for their family and friends. Once on the plane they had settled for the flight in their cabin opened a bottle of champagne and cleared the air.

“And she just appeared?” Dorian remembered the conversation clearly.

“Pretty much,” Clint handed her a glass of champagne and brought the caviar, crackers and assorted goodies to rest between them on the bed.

“And?” Dorian asked him.

“Well I was thrilled that she was alive and pissed she had been all that time and well…” she could tell he was trying to organize his thoughts, “really worried about how you would take it if I didn’t show up for the wedding.” At this he bit his lip and smiled broadly at her.

“We’d be picking out your casket.” Dorian informed him and sat back importantly secretly terrified that he might be serious. “I was thinking a nice deep blue satin lining…to match your eyes.”

“Won’t they be closed?” He chuckled.

“Well I’ll know that’s all that matters.” She informed him smoothing her skirt and tossing her pumps on the floor.

“I really was worried I’d be late.” He confessed, “But,” he motioned between them. “I’ve got no doubts about us you KNOW that don’t you?”

She smiled and looked up. “Of course I do…it’s just…”

“Oh for Chrissakes woman I’ve done like 99% of the works in this relationship how can you possibly…” He began.

“99%? You and your overstatement of fault and credit, Clint Buchanan, I’ll have you know I’ve put 50% of the…” she interrupted.

“There you go! You only give 50% and I give 99%....” he smiled. “Hmmm that doesn’t exactly add up…”

“I’ve suffered plenty.” Dorian replied.

“Suffering?!” Clint’s eyes grew into saucers. “Is that what we are to you?”

At this she let herself laugh and looked at him adoringly. “I know you’ve put forth more effort as far as heartache and longing especially in relation to Mel and Viki and alright possibly you have suffered a bit more than I have.”

He kissed the hand that was wandering on his shoulder and neck. “Glad you noticed. Now back to the subject that I don’t want to discuss from the moment we hit Mother Russia until after we’ve unpacked back in Llanview.”

“Have we decided where we’ll unpack in Llanview?” Dorian wondered off topic.

“Dorian….” He used that warning voice he always gave her when she was starting to exasperate him.

“Alright, the subject of your not so late ex-wife who thinks she is still your wife and very much in love with you.” Dorian said it and felt better for doing so.

“Imagine that. Suddenly I rate again.” Clint refilled his glass and hers and came to sit back down. “What I wouldn’t have given oh about 7 years ago…”

Dorian bit her mouth and tried not to look worried. “Well now you’ve got it.” She managed with false bravado.

“Too little, too late.” He downed his champagne and trained his gaze on her. “I’m serious Dorian I’m going to have to deal with her and be supportive of my family and I’m just gonna go nuts if you’re all insecure about it.”

“I am NOT insecure. I’m Dorian Lord and I don’t…”

“Buchanan.” Clint corrected her.

“What?” She was distracted and earned a harsh look from him.

“Buchanan you are Dorian Buchanan. If you can remember that part then dealing with OUR family circumstances should be do-able.” He leaned over and kissed her tracing her chin and growing thoughtful. “I love you. Spelled D O R I A N,” each letter earned her a kiss and him laughter from her.

“I will try and remember.” She removed the tray and his drink and kissed him earnestly then.

“So do I get to “make you my wife” before we hit the Motherland?” He asked with a grin.

She buried her face in his chest and started to unbutton his shirt. “I was thinking I’d “make you my husband” before we land.”

“Hell darlin’” he muttered thickly, “we’ve got a nice long flight. We’ll go with both options okay?” The smile was gone replaced with desire and she pressed her forehead against his responding just the way he liked.

He groaned in disappointment at the sheer number of hooks and eyes on her top and she pulled back with a smile. “Daunted?”

“I can just rip it off. You’re never gonna need another one of these dresses.” He warned her.

“I’ll never wear another one I promise.” She was getting foggy now and her primary goal was to feel his skin against her own.

“Wait,” he stopped her and pulled her away to look in her eyes. “So were just honeymooners till we get back then okay?”

At the point he was kissing her with each hook and eye successfully unhooked and she would have agreed to change her name to mud.

“Okay….ummm, yes, that’s perfect.” She had succeeded in finishing his buttons and the battle for superiority had begun. “God I love you….”



Coming back to the present, Dorian looked over at her husband of the past month who was contentedly reading the mystery she bought him. She hated that they’d be back in Llanview and it would be just about noon when they arrived. The family would be sure to descend upon them and then there was the matter of living arrangements. She had decided they’d start at his house and decide upon a new home or both or whatever later. She ticked off the reasons why but she did NOT want Viki making herself comfortable at the mansion. Clint would keep it even if they lived at her house just because Jessica, Cord, CJ, Sarah and Joey were all living there. The tolerable part was that only Jessica and Meredith lived in the house. The rest occupied the surrounding “cottages” and that meant almost total privacy. They would not have that at her place especially with Cassie and River moving back. If Dorian lived there with him it would certainly dissuade Viki from thinking she were a welcome fixture. Permanence could be decided later. Home from the honeymoon would be at the Mansion where she would establish herself as Mrs. Clint Buchanan. Back from the dead ex-wife or not!

“What are you thinking about?” Clint asked her quietly.

“You,” she answered honestly.

“Oh well don’t let me interrupt you.” At that he scrunched his nose at her and sat back, re-emerging himself into his book.

She shook her head and went over to snuggle into him on the couch.

“Hey I need SOME rest.” He complained facetiously.

“Oh in your dreams, I’m just in need of a cuddle.” She informed him.

“Damn really?” He asked sounding disappointed.

“Yes, we’ll be home soon enough.” She scolded him.

“Fine,” He kissed her cheek and sat back to continue reading. “You were a lot more fun before we got married…”

She responded with a harder than you would think she could deliver smack on the side of his arm and he grimaced but kissed her anyway and they sat like that until it was time to seatbelt for the landing.





They arrived at the Mansion and Jessica and Meredith greeted them happily. The younger woman clung to her father and Meredith seemed amused at the competition. Dorian offered them a few moments of privacy and went to call her girls and tell them they were home. She reached Blair who told her they were all coming over for dinner and Dorian let a sigh of relief out.

“Are you okay?” Blair asked her Aunt.

“Yes, yes,” Dorian said, “I’ve just missed my girls and I’ll be glad to see you.” She looked around the corner at Clint and Jessica who was still clinging and touching her father as if he’d been gone years and not weeks. “It’s odd not coming home to you.”

“Dorian you’re across town and I assure you by bedtime…” Blair made light of her comment and Dorian actually appreciated it.

“I’ll see you for dinner.” She hung up the phone and walked quietly into the living room. Her living room, she looked around the mansion. Who would have ever thought…..?

“I mean I’m not trying to hurt her.” Jessica was explaining. “I’m just not her little perfect, untainted Jessie anymore.”

“Oh Honey,” Clint kissed her and hauled her closer. His daughter seemed to need his touch and reassurance desperately. “Has the subject come up? I mean, have you told her anything?”

“No, no way Dad!” Jessica removed the figurine Meredith had grasped and looked to Dorian and then her father. “She doesn’t even remember about her and Grandfather Victor.”

Clint sighed dejectedly and leaned his head back on the sofa. “I forgot. Damn that’s not a good thing to say is it?”

Jessica smiled and shrugged. “I’m just so glad you’re home. I mean I was just…I’m just…” she stood up and held her arms out to Dorian. “I SERIOUSLY missed you.”

Dorian jolted by this looked over at Clint. There were both perplexed.

“I just need people around who get it. I mean I’m sorry Dorian I don’t mean to freak you out but you know everything and well you and Dad….you’ve been …” Jessica shrugged again. “It’s hard to explain.”

Dorian decided not to question the burst of affection and changed the subject. “How’s Natalie?”

“FREAKING TOTALLY ABSOLUTELY OUT!” Jessica emphasized and her father groaned. “It’s really bad. I mean she’s back to practically hating Mom and she’s so full of anger at me for being “perfect Jessica again and…”

“Sweetheart, I’m so sorry.” Clint swung Merri on his hip and walked over to his wife and daughter. “Why didn’t you call us? We’d have come back.”

“God Dad, we’re not that pathetic. I mean no way.” Jessica tweaked Merri’s nose, “Cord’s been a big help and Kevin and Kelly have to live with her and Tina’s there.”

“That might NOT be a good thing…” Dorian mused.

“Well she is her sister and they love each other.” Clint walked over to pour himself a drink and remembered Merri on his hip and thought better of it. “We’re home now and we’ll both help however we can. Isn’t that right Dorian?”

“Oh of course,” She smiled at Jessica and tried not the have a pang of guilt herself for what the girl was going through…again…because of her mother.

“Did you take pictures or something?” Jessica asked innocently.

“It was our honeymoon sweetie.” Clint teased with a tug of her hair. “I think Dorian did make some serious purchases though.”

“I did but nobody gets them until the party.” She leaned and kissed HER granddaughter Meredith and the baby climbed into her arms happily studying her earrings.

“Dad oh God don’t talk like that. I’ll be all weirded out,” Jessica complained. She got a thoughtful look. “Are you staying here?”

“Dorian wants to give being here a try.” Clint answered her.

“I’m SO glad. Mom keeps trying to get me to go back to Hellfair. See that’s the kind of stuff that…” she smiled. “I’ll stop. I’ll go get trouble and take her upstairs and get pretty for the welcome home party.”

Dorian smiled at Clint and eased into his arms for comfort. “It’s good to be home.” She said completely unconvinced.

He smiled back at her sadly. “Is it?”



Chapter 2--

Clint Buchanan smiled as he walked away after dropping Merri off in her nursery. His granddaughter was a beautiful reminder that there was a silver lining to every cloud. He just had to figure where this one was. He felt like a total bastard. Viki was alive. His children had their Mother back and his grandchildren their grandmother and damn all he could think about was how it would affect his wife.

He had persevered in his relationship with Dorian by sheer stubbornness and longevity he was sure that was the only reason he could even call her his wife. He adjusted the water temperature in the shower and stepped in.They had a perfect honeymoon and frankly being married to Dorian made him happier than he thought possible. They had made strides at becoming a family. Bringing the two as one but with Viki’s re-emergence in their lives that would not be. Viki and Dorian don’t mix. Now and again, oh they try and convince everyone they could mix but the facts remained. It just was not a good thing.

The whole gang was coming over tonight to welcome them home and while he was glad to be seeing his own children because he had no clue how Dorian was really feeling. He knew she was insecure about Viki. Hell it was in her bloodstream but she had no reason anymore. But saying it and believing it were two very different things especially for Dorian Buchanan. He smiled as he stepped out of the shower. It even rhymes. Just sounds so good. Speaking of good he saw his wife slipping on a cute little skirt and wondered how long they had until everyone got there. The idea became entirely impractical when he realized Merri had learned to turn the door handle and she was running hell bent for election at him.

“You little varmit! Where did you come from?” He managed as he belted his robe.

“Pa- Pa Boo!” Was her reply?

“So where is your Mommy?” He asked her before tossing her on the bed.

The squeals of delight brought Dorian from the closet with a bittersweet smile for him and she went over to give the little cherub a toss herself.

“She’s just gotten so big so fast.” Dorian commented as Merri decided to dance jumping on the bed and holding on to Dorian’s hands.

“Yep. It’s in the remarkable super human Buchanan Genes.” Clint bragged. “So are you ready for tonight?”

Dorian rolled her eyes and tried to ignore him. It of course didn’t work Clint Buchanan would not be put off.

“Dor-ian?” He drew out her name and sat on the bed. Merri of course ran to him over Dorian and ended her distraction. “I’d like to know how you’re doing its almost zero hour.”

“Do you think Viki will come over?” Dorian asked still not answering him.

“Darlin’ I haven’t a clue.” Clint picked Merri up and walked over to the dresser where he opened the drawer to unwrap a little chocolate and send her out the door. “One for Mommy.” He put the spare in her other hand and scooted her out the door. “Jessie are you missing someone?”

Jessica’s voice was clear, “I’m sorry Dad! Merri---Merrri—come to Mommy and help me use my make-up big girl!” Meredith who loved the blush brush took off down the hall to the suite she shared with her Mother.

“I can talk to Jessie. I mean she’s kind of used to popping in here whenever…” he began.

“Clint I adore Meredith and if we’re family she’s mine now too. I don’t want her to feel uncomfortable in her own home.” Dorian sighed.

“In YOUR home.” Clint reminded her and reached out to take her hands. “I don’t want you to feel overwhelmed.”

“You’ve been tolerating all my Cramer’s for two years I think I can handle a little bit of a baby now and again.” Dorian leaned in and kissed him. “Besides, I want her to love me too and really Jessica’s so devoted it’s not like we’ll be raising her.”

“No…”

“And we just got home and it’s natural for her to want to glam on to you and be curious about me being here. She’ll adjust and we’ll all be fine. Jessica and Meredith make me feel welcome and compared to all of mine and the rest of yours they are the most accomplished on that note.” Dorian looked into his eyes and smiled and went to the sink to look at her hair.

“I don’t know if Viki’s coming over. I didn’t invite her but I wouldn’t be surprised. It’s been a month and according to Jessie she’s still not recalling much and she hasn’t even seen you…” he explained.

“You’re probably right.” She admitted, “I’m sorry Clint. I really am going to TRY and not let this cause us any trouble.”

He came up behind her and wrapped his arms around her resting his head on her shoulder. “You look perfect as usual and I know you’ll try. I just wish I knew how in hell to make you feel more secure about it all. You can’t pretend with me Dorian I can read it all over you.”

She turned and looked at him sadly. “I really am trying. I love you.” They kissed and she leaned ran her fingers up and down his lapel. “Let’s just get through tonight and go from there okay?”

“Sounds like a plan.” A few minutes later he took her hand and laughingly dragged her out the door and down the stairs to greet their family or was it families? The thought bothered him as they began hearing voices. Here they had become one but with Viki back…that was all but impossible.






“So did you bring us back any borscht Dad?” Kevin asked.

“No smart ass you go get your own.” Clint replied and gave James another piece of chocolate.

“We don’t give him candy.” Kelly tried to swipe it and earned herself a glare from her Father/Uncle in law.

“Well I do. I’m Grandpa and I outrank you.” Clint snarked at her.

“I’m Mommy I outrank you.” Kelly looked at him and smiled.

“Did you want me to leave all 4 of you out of the will?” Clint pointed at her very gravid belly and she looked at Kevin with disbelief.

“He learned that from Asa.” Kevin smiled at his father secretly glad his geeky little son would be getting candy from Grandpa. “But he’s way better and making you believe it. I mean Dad only says it when he actually MEANS it.”

Kelly rolled her eyes at the Buchanan men and walked away leaving James to the horror of chocolate and Grandpa. Clint noted to thank Nigel for refilling all the secret stashes he kept around the house. He hated to admit it but he was developing a sweet tooth in his old age. Imagine that, just like Pa!

Bo and his family arrived but Bo looked very upset. He was quiet but Clint could read it all over him. Nora and Matthew blended in to play with the gang and as usual the kids were off in their own area of the room. Bo came over and wrapped an arm around his brother.

“So how was the honeymoon?”

“Great thanks. What the hell is the matter with you?” Clint cut to the chase.

“What are you talking about?” Bo tried.

“Come on Beauforde what’s wrong?” Clint pressed him.

“Clint it’s Natalie, it’s bad. She’s really rattled by the whole Viki thing.” His brother informed him. “I’ve tried to call her all day and tell her you’re home but she isn’t even answering my calls. She and John are looking for a new place to live. She doesn’t even want to be NEAR Viki or live in the Carriage House.”

“Damn,” Clint sighed. “Isn’t Viki trying with her?”

“Yeah, oh yeah from what I can tell she’s trying plenty but the problem is that Natalie’s just not having any of it. You know at first Viki was standoffish and Natalie just can’t shake it.” Bo explained, “And then there’s Nora.”

“Nora? What? Is something wrong?” Clint asked him.

“She’s planning a trip to Africa to see Rachel at this clinic….” Bo stated. “And I just don’t think…”

“Oh hell no Bo.” Clint could see it written on his brother’s face. “Come on Bo what are you thinking?”

“I think I’m done. That’s what I’m thinking.” Bo answered him honestly. “I mean we both wanted it back so bad and now…”

“Yeah I know how that feels.” Clint answered and looked around for Dorian. “And how good it is when you clear the air and move on.”

“I think that’s part of it Clint. I keep thinking I want to feel like I’m at the finish line, but lately it’s like I’m still waiting for somebody to finish the start…you know: get ready, get set….” Bo gestured with his hands until his brother placed a drink in them and patted his back.

“Go,” he said quietly. “Just do it Bo. Life is too damn short.”

“Matthew…” Bo tried.

“Has already been given more togetherness than he thought he’d ever have from you two. The trip is a natural separation.” Clint looked at his brother sadly. “What does Nora say?”

“She’s not willing to say much but it’s just in the air you know?” Bo asked sadly.

“I know.” Clint smiled at James he had toddled up to Dorian who was now seated just close enough to the chocolate to join him in corrupting the perfect child. And he was thrilled to note that his naughty wife was indeed his better half because she popped two pieces in his mouth and indulged in one for herself.





The family was doing fine enjoying their get together and Dorian’s girls were very attentive to her. Clint was amazed but decided not to destroy the balance and tried to leave them alone whenever they seemed deep in conversation. He was certain they had missed her after all she was the glue that kept her family together. He was watching them happily when he realized there was still no sign of Natalie. He went out on the terrace and called her.

“Dad?” She answered excitedly.

“You remember my phone number is that it?” He asked her quietly.

“No you have a special ring tone.” She informed him. “How’s St. Petersburg?”

“It WAS terrific honey but we’re home and everyone came over for dinner but you.” Clint told her.

“You’re home?” Natalie asked shakily.

“Yes how long will it take you to get here?” Her father asked her.

“I’m on my way right now.” She hung up without saying goodbye.

Clint closed his phone and his eyes and leaned into the brick. He never should have left them so soon after Viki coming back. He couldn’t tell Dorian but it was the wrong thing to do. He had indulged himself by carrying on as if the world hadn’t taken a counter clockwise turn and his daughters seemed to be paying the price. He would have to make a point of spending more time with the girls and their mother if that’s what it took to heal them.





Dorian stood up when she heard the doorbell as the staff was preparing dinner and Nigel usually in charge of answering was trying to help her hide the chocolates from both James and Meredith.

“I’ll answer it Nigel.” Dorian said as she walked to the door.

“Thank you Mrs. Buchanan.” Nigel said kindly and it made her smile. An entire month and she was still not tired of the novelty of being Mrs. Buchanan and she was certain she never would get tired of hearing it.


Dorian swung open the door and immediately frowned. Just as she had suspected Viki could not stay away. She squared her jaw and forced a smile. “Viki.”

“Hello Dorian.” Viki clutched her purse and looked past her. “Welcome home.”

“Why thank you but if you’ve come on a courtesy call this really isn’t a good time…” Dorian was not about to welcome her with open arms.

“Oh for God’s sake Dorian I’m not here to pay you a social courtesy.” Viki snapped and clenched her teeth to compose herself and try again. “I know MY entire family is here and I really need to speak to Clint.”

“Oh I don’t know if he’s still awake. I mean the poor dear is just so tired between the jet lag and typical honeymoon exhaustion….” Dorian smiled. It was good to see Viki again after all.

“Spare me your fantasy life.” Viki sniped.

“Fantasy oh no my dear Viki as a matter of fact it’s a miracle I’m not walking like John Wayne.” She smiled so brightly her face hurt and it was all she could do not to giggle. Viki’s face was contorted and she was obviously furious at the exchange. It was just too much fun.

“Dorian please.” Viki tried to be civil again.

“Do come in.” Dorian opened the door widely still grinning ear to ear. “I’ll go and see if MY husband WANTS to see you.” Dorian turned to join their family. “You can wait here if you’d like.”

Viki sighed deeply and stood in the entryway off from the rest of her family. As Dorian went to find Clint, Kelly spotted her and welcomed her into the room. The Buchanan’s and Cramer’s all greeted her politely but they all knew that Viki’s presence on the day their parents returned from their honeymoon was NOT a good thing.




Dorian found Clint in deep thought on the terrace. He barely noticed her walk up to him and she stroked his hair to get his attention. He looked up from the table and smiled at her. “Hi there.”

“Hello,” she was worried what on earth was he doing out here all alone? “So why are you hiding?”

“I’m not hiding. I’m waiting.” Clint answered her. “Natalie is coming over. I had to call her. I guess she’s trying to avoid Bo.”

“Why they’re so close?” Dorian asked.

“Well I guess he’s been trying to help with Viki and Dorian she doesn’t even remember Natalie and it’s just not good.” Clint said.

“Oh, I see well that helps to explain it then,” Dorian said.

“Explain what?” he asked.

“Your ex-wife is here and she wants to speak with you. She just could not wait another day and she just HAD to interrupt our first day home with our family.” Dorian explained, “And I’m sure she had no idea that everyone was here when she set out to “need” you.” The words were dripping with sarcasm and Clint hated the sound of them.

“Any chance Lindsey just got here?” He tried.

Dorian folded her arms and smiled not warmly. “Wrong ex-wife.”

“Damn,” he said with feeling.





Clint and Dorian came in off the terrace and the room grew almost deathly quiet. The kids kept playing oblivious to the drama that was occurring. Viki’s heart lept when she saw him come in the room but her face grew dark as she realized he was holding Dorian’s hand. They walked over and he smiled at her.

“Hi Viki. What can I do for you?” Clint asked her kindly.

“We need to talk it’s very important.” Viki looked at him trying not to notice Dorian wrapping her hand around his arm and interjecting herself into their conversation.

“Yeah I agree with you. Did you want something to drink?” Clint offered.

“No, no, uh just can we go somewhere?” She asked.

Nigel interrupted them. “Mr. Buchanan, Mrs. Buchanan dinner is served.” He motioned to the formal dining area and the family stood waiting. It was Dorian who offered.

“Do join us Viki. After all it’s your family too.” She tilted her head just so and motioned Viki to go to the dining room.

Viki actually took her up on it and the assembled walked into the next room. Clint noted a look from Cord and gave him one back. Cord ever his father’s son; came and offered to “escort” Viki. He had kept his distance from her still aggravated about the attempt Todd made to hurt his father but was more than willing to have a meal and visit with his former stepmother.

“What are you up to my beautiful wife?” Clint leaned in to Dorian.

“I’m just trying to be civil my love.” Dorian replied innocently.





They were enjoying dessert and laughing heartily in the different conversations throughout the table. Cassie and River were entertained with Dorian’s story about Clint trying not to snore at the opera and he confessed his iPod was playing non-stop Willie Nelson and it’s the only reason he survived the ordeal.

“Just god-awful.” He groused as he chose from the dessert tray Nigel brought around to them all. Clint was about to snatch James from his Mother to be certain the child-received dessert when he saw Natalie come into the room. He stood up and excused himself as she literally ran into her father’s arms. Natalie much as Jessica had earlier needed the re-assurance that he was home and all would be well again. They left quietly and Jessica caught Dorian’s gaze with a “SEE?” And rolled eyes to express the situation.

Bo watched with concern and relief as he knew only her father could help the girl. For the wonderful bond they shared there were some things only her father could offer her and reassurance of her place in the family was one of them. Viki tried not to cry and listened desperately to Sarah telling her story of her latest audition.




Out on the terrace Natalie had composed herself and confided in her father.

“Dad she hates me. I mean she even admitted that she thinks I’m some kind of replacement for Megan. She doesn’t remember me being born all she can remember is Jessica, Jessica, Jessica.” The sobs began anew and she collapsed into his arms.

“Awww honey give it some time. Your mom is just confused. You know she loves you with all her heart.” Clint consoled her.

“Ben’s heart.” Natalie corrected him.

“Natalie Buchanan that’s out of line.” Clint squared his shoulders he never let the kids get away with being disrespectful to their mother. It only hurt them in the long run and he’d never contribute to that.

“Sorry Dad.” Natalie was drying her tears again. “Can I come here for awhile?” She said suddenly.

“Well sure honey of course.” He answered automatically.

“You don’t think Dorian will hate it do you?” She asked him.

“Natalie there’s plenty of room…. for YOU.” Clint answered her.

“Not John?” His daughter asked.

He bit his tongue and tried not to face her. “Darlin…”

“I’m kidding Dad.” Natalie smiled. “That’s part of it. Things are a little complicated on the John front too.”

“Oh Thank GOD.” Clint caught himself as soon as the words came out of his mouth. “I didn’t mean it to sound like that. I mean what I meant was…”

“Dad it’s okay. I’m cool and really things are with John too.” Natalie stood up. “But he’s got a chance for a great job opportunity for six months and while he’s gone I didn’t want to be alone.”

“Oh that’s all?” Clint smiled as if he were disappointed and got a smack from his red headed daughter. “I was so happy. Come on let’s go get some dessert okay?”

“I didn’t have dinner yet.” Natalie complained.

“We can fix that.” Her father laughed as he kissed her forehead and took her back to join the family.





The evening continued and Viki kept finding a way to weedle in next to Clint. Dorian had just about enough when she realized he was walking her to the door.

“Thank you and I really am sorry I interrupted your evening,” Viki said.

“Are you?” Clint asked her.

“What is that supposed to mean?” Viki was hurt.

“Viki we can talk tomorrow or whenever. We can set up some time and be with the girls and see what we can BOTH do to help them and possibly help you remember.” He was trying not to boss or placate but felt torn between the two actions. “But Dorian is my wife and other than the kids she is my first priority. I don’t want her to be uncomfortable with the family.”

“I certainly didn’t mean….” Viki defended herself.

“Just call before you come over okay?” Clint opened the door and placed his hand on Viki’s back to almost herd her out the door. “This is Dorian’s home now. I don’t want to have to put you out on the curb okay?” He smiled and remembered that Viki didn’t have any recall of that day…. no wonder she was looking at him with such sadness.

“Okay,” she sniffed at looked at him searchingly. “In my heart you’re still my husband. I KNOW you love me Clint…”

“Oh Viki come on.” Clint slumped and leaned his head against the doorway. “Enough for tonight okay?”

“Okay,” she said again and once more without feeling. “Goodnight.” She almost whispered and turned away.

Joey had come up upon them and called to Viki offering to walk her to her car. He threw his father a look that bespoke his disappointment and Clint closed the door tiredly.





Dorian had witnessed the entire exchange. She was not amused. The threat was real. It was not her insecurity or any other such nonsense. Clint was going to be more and more conflicted if Viki kept this up. It was so unfair! They had worked so hard to be together and now this! She hated that he was being kind but realized a temper would mean there was emotion behind him so she’d have to live with kind. He was a very kind man. She walked over and wrapped her arms around him and kissed him sweetly.

“What’s that for?” Clint questioned her.

“Oh just because you’re mine.” Dorian beamed at him.

“That works for me.” He answered and walked her back in to join their families. Joey had made it clear. It was back to Families.

[JvD Rocks!]

I haven't read this yet, Val, but wanted you to know I am beyond thrilled that you're doing a sequel.

I'm going to save it for tomorrow morning when I'm wide awake and settle in with it over a hot cup of coffee.

[JvD Rocks!]

Okay, NOW I read this,

As expected, it was excellent. Needless to say, one of my favorite parts was the honeymoon flashback. From now on, St. Petersberg has a special place in my heart .

And you could feel the palpable shift in atmosphere as soon as they returned home. (I really appreciate how seamlessly you write scene transitions, Val. Your story construction is so tight. And the little "thumps" along the way. Excellent work.) I adored that Clint was so intent on reassuring Dorian. He has a way about him :: sigh::

The scenes between Jessica, Natalie and him were terrific. It made total sense that they each needed a big, comforting hug from their Dad. He is such solid father material; I'm glad that's being further explored in the story. Can't wait to see more of his interactions with Nat and Jess.

And Dorian's and Clint's "I want to make you my husband/wife". Such fun. Dorian Buchanan. What a wonderful sound.

You've outdone yourself, Val.

Michele

[rsfan83]

Oh Val, you are a soap writing GODDESS!!! Seriously, that was SO.DAMN.GOOD.!!!

LMFAO, love that you found a way to sneak in the "Ben's heart" comment and from NATALIE none the less! I had a whole new respect for her after that...hell I actually LIKED her!!!

And ITA with Michele, LOVED the honeymoon flashback, thank you for granting our wish! Somehow you always manage to keep me smiling even through conflict for them. Your writing is just FLAWLESS!

Thank you SO much for the sequel Tater Too! YOU ROCK!

[cher62]

Hey Val! Excellent my friend. I love how you've so clearly written the relationship Clint and Dorian have with each other and specific family members. You have a real talent in this area. I do have a question, though. What's up with Viki? I know that she came back the final chapter of Return Engagements. She's got amnesia but how come she didn't die?

[TansMom]

Hey glad you're liking it so far. Thanks for the comments it's so thoughtful of you all to FEED the author!

Cheryl, well I'll explain later. It's a bit of a twist but at this point Clint was so intent on not letting her re-emergence interfere with his new marriage he has barely wondered how it all happend.

But you can bet your boots Dorian will be interested in finding out!

[RSRocks]

As usual, just wonderful Val. So glad you decided to find your Muse, even in all your soapy Joy of late. And it just goes to prove, there's plenty of story for the without it being an actual romantic triangle.

Great stuff!

[marylyle05]

Well most everybody else has hit the high notes...but THANK GOD you are writing the sequel. I was seriously bummed thinking it was all over.

Why are you sitting there reading? Write some more right now!