Love Games updated complete 9/1/2013 (Read 8,909 times)

[bradydiva06]

Love Games-19

Philip could still hear EJ’s words echoing in his head while he finished his drink. Philip didn’t know whether to believe EJ or not. He knew he couldn’t go and ask her if she said the things EJ said she had. That would be down-right embarrassing.

He has had conflicting emotions about everything since the kiss they shared on Christmas Eve. The kiss they never really discussed, and continued to act like it hadn’t happened. But boy had it happened. Just thinking about the kiss had his mind racing.

Maybe the fact that they hadn’t discussed the kiss just confirmed what EJ had said to him. That she really did want to move on and she thought they weren’t good together. She was trying to push him away so she could move on.

The thought of her pushing him away was killing him. He knew he has no right to think that since he is engaged to another woman. He thought he was doing what is right for the both of them. Every time they tried to make it work it just didn’t. Maybe it was a sign that they shouldn’t be together.

Philip drinks some more of his drink to chase away the thought. He watched her as she mingled with the hospital staff and other attendees of the ball. She walked around with such grace it was like she owned the place. He smiles while he sits back and continues to watch her from the bar. She looked truly beautiful in that royal blue dress. He saw more than a few men take a second glance at her tonight. He had to control his anger when the looks lingered too long for his liking.

He watches as EJ walks over and pulls her in his arms and she beams at him then he kisses her hard on the lips. The sight of this leaves a bad taste in Philip’s mouth. He wanted her to be happy but he just couldn’t believe EJ would be that person. He grabs another drink off the tray. Another drink is the last thing he needed, but he drank it anyway.

“Baby you can’t be a bump on the log this whole party.” Melanie said. She wraps her arms around his neck and kisses him. He looks at her and smiles. He wonders if he could be happy with Melanie for the rest of his life. Can he left go since Stephanie is ready to let go?

“You’re right. Let’s dance.” He said. He takes her hand and leads her to the middle of the dance floor. He pulls her close to his body. She rests her head on his shoulder. “The dance lessons are paying off.” He said with a smile.

“Don’t jinx us.” Melanie warned him. This just makes him smile wider. Every time he thought they might not need practice anymore she reminded him by stepping on his feet the remainder of the dance practice that they needed as much practice before the big day.

“Philip I’m a little embarrassed to admit this.” Melanie started but stopped.

“Admit what?” Philip asked. He brushed her hair behind her ear and stared at her waiting for her to answer.

“The last few weeks, I was nervous. I thought things between us were rocky. I thought you weren’t over Stephanie.” Melanie feels him tense up when she says this but she continues on like nothing happened. “I even thought you were with her on Christmas Eve doing god knows what.” She said with a laugh then buries her head in his chest.

Philip didn’t know how to respond to this. Melanie continued on before he could. “I’m not the jealous type as you know so this was eating me up inside. As I said I’m embarrassed to admit this. I talked to Stephanie about it and she laughed it off. She told me I couldn’t be more off base. That she didn’t love you and you guys were over for good. I don’t even know why I needed her to tell me this. I mean I know this already. You wouldn’t have asked me to marry you if this wasn’t true.” Melanie said while looking into his eyes. Before Philip could respond she kisses him. She was afraid to hear what he might say.

She came over and said exactly what EJ told her too. She was hoping that if Stephanie and Philip got alone time tonight. He wouldn’t respond to any confessions of the heart since he would be so confused since she and EJ were saying something different.

She was putting her faith in EJ that this would work. That he wouldn’t react and this would send Stephanie to EJ’s arm. If Philip came back later to say he loved her, and he was sorry she would already be with EJ.

Melanie wanted to go the ‘don’t leave them alone at all route’. Things could get too risky if they were left alone. He could react the exact opposite of what EJ expected and tell her he loves her also and kiss her senseless and where would that leave her. He said they needed to talk so it would be the final closure Stephanie needed. So we had to make sure it was a swayed talk. The statements were what they wanted instead of they really felt.

“You have nothing to worry about.” Philip said. He kisses her on the top of her head. Melanie sighs she’s heard that statement countless times and she always had something to worry about in the end. Someone was always letting her down.

“Good, because I don’t know what I’d do without you Kiriakis. I love you.” She said then she kissed him with all she had. She wanted to make sure he said nothing so he’d be with her.


Stephanie kisses EJ and takes his hand and leads him away from the hospital board. He was a real smooth talker he had them all eating out of his hand. The female doctors and wives of the doctors were all practically drooling over him. The man had a way about him. He was able to smooth talk his way through almost everything.

“I had enough talking with the board and their wives.” Stephanie said. “They were all giving me the seal approval with the nod. They will be disappointed when they hear things are over between us.” Stephanie said with a laugh.

“I’m sure they will get over it.” EJ said with a smile.

“Ok when are you going to get Melanie and distract her for me? I think I’m finally ready to do this. Then I can give you alone time with Sami.”

“If you’re ready then I’m ready.” EJ smiles and makes his way across the dance floor. He says something to Philip and then it looks like he is complementing Melanie by the way she is smiling. It looks like he is taking her over to the donation table like they discussed. Stephanie breathes and gives herself a quick peep talk before walking over to Philip.

“Hi.” Stephanie started. Philip doesn’t say anything just smiles so she is trying to read him. “Are you enjoying yourself?” Stephanie asked.

“I am.” Philip finally said.

“Can we talk?” She asked. He nods his head yes. She smiles and starts to lead him off the dance floor and to her office that was nearby. There was still something odd about him. He was more standoffish tonight then he had been in a long time. It was the same distance she sensed from him when they broke up a few months ago. “You ok?”

“Just fine,” He said while looking at the door. “So what do you want to talk about?” He asked.

“Us-.” Stephanie started.

“I didn’t know there was an, us anymore.” He said in a cold tone. It caught Stephanie off guard. “I mean you’re with EJ, and I’m with Mel. You guys seem really chummy tonight.”

“I wanted to tell you something now I’m not sure if I should say anything to you at all.” Stephanie said with tears in her eyes.

“Maybe you shouldn’t.” Philip said quickly, a little too quickly for Stephanie. Stephanie stood there and stared at him through a clinched jaw. She couldn’t believe how harsh he was being.

She had seen him put up that icy Kiriakis demeanor when he didn’t want to be bothered. He also used it, when he didn’t want someone getting too close, or them telling him what to do. She could see today, he had that demeanor in full force.

“Sometimes I wonder why I even bother loving you with all my heart? I’m so foolish, that I just keep loving you, and coming back for the punishment. I can’t turn it off as hard as I try-.”Her voice got shakier with every word and she could feel the tears welling up. She kept coaching herself mentally not to cry. She couldn’t cry in front of him she wouldn’t. She paused to gather her thoughts and not cry. To let him know she still loved him. Philip had already started talking.

“You turned it off pretty easily as did I.” Philip told her. “We are just two different. We should just stop trying.” Philip opens the door and doesn’t look back after he shuts it. Stephanie felt her knees getting weak and immediately takes a seat in her chair. She could feel the tears flowing freely now since he walked out.

This wasn’t how she had envisioned the night. She didn’t think he would be so cold and distant. She never really got to say what she wanted because he let her know so quickly he didn’t want to hear it and he walked out. Well this would be the last time he walked out on her because she wasn’t going to pursue him anymore.

Philip leans against the door. Wondering if he should go back in and apologize for the way he was acting. He couldn’t let her end it between them again. He doesn’t know if he could handle it. So he wanted to control what happened. So he was cold and ended it quick for the both of them.

Maybe he should have fought for her and told her how he really felt. He didn’t want to go through the pain all over again and hear how they just couldn’t work. He was thrown off when she said that she keeps on loving him. He didn’t want to hear her say but she moved. He didn’t want to hear her express any love for EJ. He’s lost out on love in the past to other men but none of the men were as irreprehensible as EJ.

He turns and brings his hand to the doorknob but stops before opening. Maybe it was time he did let her go before they were both hurt.

“Philip.” Melanie called from down the hall. She walks closer to him. “What are you doing out here?”

“I was looking for you.” Philip said while linking his arm with hers. They start to walk back to the ball. He looks back at her door and he tries to ignore the regret that was engulfing his entire being right now. He looks forward this is the way she wanted it, so this was the way it had to be.

Stephanie wipes the tears from her face but they just kept coming. She was hurt, embarrassed, and frustrated again. She was ready to pour her heart out to him, and spend her life with him again. She was let down yet again. She hears a knock on the door and just wanted to tell the person to go away. Instead she wiped the tears away and throws her shoulders back and turned around to face the door.

“Come in.” She said softly. EJ peaks his head in and slowly walks into her office. Her lips start quivering uncontrollably because she was trying to hold back the tears again. He walks across the office and pulls her into his strong arms and the tears fall again freely.

“It’s going to be ok.” EJ said to her softly.

Stephanie looks into his eyes hoping what he said was true. She wondered why she was always chasing the unattainable. She wanted to just feel something right now instead of hurt and pain. She didn’t want to think of things over and end up not doing anything at all. She just wanted to feel anything, but this pain she felt in her heart.

She wraps her arms around his neck and kisses him hard. She presses her body against his and she could feel his arousal pressing against her. She kissed him with a passion and fire that she has never done before. She feels him grab her bottom and pull her closer to him if it was even possible and his tongue invade her mouth and tasting her. She lets out a soft moan against his lips. She breaks the kiss. She felt dizzy and could hardly breathe from the rush.

“Let’s get out of here.” Stephanie whispered against his ear.

“This is your event. Don’t you have to stay for it?” EJ asked her.

“Am I going home alone then?” She asked. Stephanie walks away from her desk and grabs her coat.

“Not on your life.” EJ said quickly. He rounds her desk to let her know she definitely wasn’t leaving him behind.

“I’m driving.” Stephanie said while reaching in his coat pocket for the keys. Stephanie starts walking for the door already.

“I’d probably get there faster.” EJ told her. He rounds her desk to catch up with her.

“I don’t think so.” Stephanie said. She kisses him again quick and hard. She wanted to feel the rush again. She felt the butterflies growing in her stomach each time she kissed him. She was starting to feel something other than the pain she felt from her talk with Philip.

They head to the elevator. When the door closes he surprises her this time by pulling her into his arm and continuing the kiss they had in her office. He has her pinned against the elevator wall. He is kissing her lips feverishly. She could feel his desire for her poking her lower stomach. She runs her hands against his chest and she could feel his heart beating erratically for her. The feel was exhilarating for her right now.

The elevator stop and he pulls away. He kisses her on the top of the head before moving over before the elevator doors open. To her he didn’t have to move over he could have continued to kiss her. She wouldn’t have cared who had seen either.

She takes his hand and leads him to the car. She gets in the driver seat and runs her hand over the steering wheel getting comfortable with his car.

“You know no woman has sat in the driver seat of my car.” EJ told her while buckling in on the other side. You can tell it looks foreign to him to be over there.

“There’s a first time for everything.” Stephanie said with a smile. She shifts the car gear and speeds off.

EJ looks over at her shocked. She rolls down the window so the cool winter’s breeze would flow through her hair while she continued to test his baby out.

“I thought you didn’t want to race anymore sweetheart. Looks like you still got it in you.” EJ said with a smile.

“I guess some things just won’t go away no matter how long you try to suppress it. Stop calling me sweetheart. You only call me that when you are apologizing for something you did wrong.”

EJ looks at her confused with that statement.

“You called me sweetheart when you were apologizing for saying Philip wasn’t good enough for me. You did the same thing after you stood me up for our date in Rome. You stood me up after I beat you in that race too. I didn’t think losing a race would cause you to do that”

“I didn’t stand you up. I got caught up in press interviews. I tried to call you to reschedule and you blew me off. For Max Brady of all people too.” EJ rolls his eyes just thinking about that again.

“Don’t try to push the blame off on me.” Stephanie laughs.

“I’m not, just stating facts.” EJ told her. “I’d love to take you to the track though. We can dust off these skills on safer grounds.”

She pulls her foot of the ignition a little now. She was going way over the legal limit right now. If she was pulled over by anyone at Salem PD she would have to listen to her Uncle Roman and Uncle Bo lecture her for days.

“Maybe.” Stephanie said while pulling into a spot right in front of her apartment. “Do you want to come up?” She asked.

“Sure.” EJ said.

Part of her knew asking EJ to come upstairs would only lead to trouble. Right now she was welcoming that trouble. She didn’t want to overthink her actions anymore. She just wanted to feel things for tonight. She wanted to feel alive again.

Love Games-20

EJ looks down into those beautiful brown eyes and it was hard to think clear. Every kiss, every look he was falling deeper for this girl. She smiles up at him and it takes his breathe away. She bites her bottom lip as if she is thinking of something mischievous before kissing him hard on the lips. He backs her against the wall and she wraps her legs around his waist instinctively. She pulls her lips away from him and moans “EJ,” against his ears ruggedly. He loved it when she did that.

“We don’t have time for this.” She reminds him breathlessly. They were supposed to go the hospital for the board meeting that would be happening in twenty minutes.

“I could be quick.” EJ teased her. He continues to nibble her ear.

“We are never quick and that definitely isn’t what a girl wants to hear.” Stephanie teased him. She kisses him softly before unwrapping her legs from his waist and standing back on the ground. EJ still has his body pressed against hers letting her feel her desire for her and she smiles.

She can’t believe it has been a month since everything at the ball has happened. Since the ball she has spent most of her time with EJ and things between them have gotten pretty serious.

“Hopefully this board meeting is quick.” EJ said interrupting her thoughts.

“I think it will be. They just want to thank the board for all their help with the event and discuss some numbers.” Stephanie told him.

“Then why do we have to go.” EJ asked. He wraps his arms around her waist and pulls her in close to him. He starts kissing her neck making it hard for her to think.

“I have to go to all the board meetings.” Stephanie reminded him. “Once it’s done I say let’s get a little dinner and we can come back here and pick up where we left off.”

“Sounds like a plan to me.” EJ told her. She pulls out of his embrace to get her coat and purse.

They head to the elevator and she could feel the butterflies in her stomach growing. Today would be the first day that she has seen Philip in a month. She hasn’t seen him since the embarrassing mishap.

She knows that he will want to talk about what happened. That is the last thing she wanted to do. She wanted to keep close to EJ and get out of there as soon as the meeting was over. She didn’t want any alone time with him.

It seemed like they got to the hospital quicker than usual. With EJ driving it was always fast though. The step on the elevator and she pushes the close door button quickly. She didn’t want to let anyone else in and all of a sudden Philip and Melanie get on too. That would be one awkward elevator ride.

“Did you want some privacy?” EJ asked with a raised eyebrow. He walks over and pulls her into his arms.

“Of course.” Stephanie said. She plays with his collar before kissing him softly on the lips. He places his hand on the small of her back to bring her closer to him and deepen the kiss. Stephanie hears the elevator doors open so she pulls away from him. She turns to walk off the elevator.

She didn’t have to look up to know that Philip was near. She could sense that he was there. Sure enough he was in the hall with Melanie staring at the two of them. By the look on his face she assumes that he saw them kiss.

She tells herself not to fall into the games anymore. She shouldn’t care what he thinks about her and EJ. They were through for good. She sees the other board members making their way into the conference room.

“I have to stop at my office to get a few files.” Stephanie told EJ.

“I can come with you.” He stated quickly.

“It’s ok. I’ll just be a second.” Stephanie told him. She gave him a quick kiss. She heads to her office quickly and closes the door behind her. She leans against the door and takes a deep breathe. She didn’t know seeing Philip would do this to her. She was trying to gather her emotions. She needed to remain calm when she was in the board room with him.


EJ watched Philip’s eyes follow Stephanie into her office. He clinched his fist together and sighed. He could see Philip wasn’t going to give up without a fight. Philip’s wedding to Melanie was this weekend and he is still pinning away after Stephanie. It made EJ sick to his stomach the way he was playing these two girls.

EJ watched while Philip talked to other board members and how Philip’s eyes never left her office door. Philip was waiting for any opportunity to be alone with her. EJ could feel it. This is the reason he didn’t want to come to the board meeting at all today. Anytime they were together you could see how much he loved her.

EJ couldn’t wait to Philip and Melanie said I do. Stephanie wasn’t going to be anyone’s mistress not even the Great Philip Kiriakis. So their relationship would be over for good that day.

The board members pull Philip reluctantly into the conference room. Melanie makes and excuse to hang outside. She doesn’t wait for the door to click before she makes a beeline to EJ.

EJ curses under his breathe. The girl didn’t get the words keep your distance. She called and texted him non-stop, it was like her whole world was crumbling around her because she was in such a panic about Stephanie and Philip. She knew she would be dropped faster than her head could spin if they had anytime alone.

“We need to talk.” Melanie tells him in a hushed whisper.

“Not now.” EJ said through clinched teeth. He tried not to show is annoyance while she was standing near him. He knew it was written all over his face so he runs his hand across his face to calm down and keep his cool.

“It’s urgent.” Melanie insisted while looking over her shoulder to make sure no one else was near them.

“Make it quick.” EJ said while tugging her arm so they could be around the corner. He could still see Stephanie office if she walked out and this conversation would end as soon as that happened.

“Philip keeps insisting on inviting Stephanie and you to the wedding.” Melanie started.

“Why?” EJ yelled. He see people looking at them so he reminds himself to keep calm. He smiles and continues. “Why does he want to do something so stupid?”

“He keeps saying that he wants everything to be ok between all of our since we are on the board together.”

“What do we meet like once a month? She will eventually get over the marriage and she won’t care seeing the two of you together.” EJ told her.

“I doubt that.” Melanie said with a laugh. She could tell he knew nothing about a woman. Once you loved a man as deeply as Stephanie claims she loved Philip. That love will never go away. No matter how hard she tried to forget it. “They need to stay apart. The more time they spend together that wall is cracking that they built between them. They will eventually let each other know how much they love each other and miss each other.”

“Once you’re married Stephanie won’t interfere.” EJ reiterated.

“We have to get married and she can’t be there for the ceremony.” Melanie said with a sigh. “Why don’t you put up with your end of the deal for once? Keep her satisfied and away from Philip. Since I helped you get the information to destroy the alternative fuels project. If a wedding invitation comes destroy it. Make sure today they aren’t left alone one minute.” Melanie walks away quickly towards the board room.

EJ massages his temples. He hated talking with her and letting her pretend she ran this little arrangement. He knew this was the easier way to deal with things. She did have one thing right. He wasn’t going to let Philip and Stephanie be alone for one second till Melanie and Philip tie the knot.

EJ starts to head toward Stephanie’s office and the door opens immediately.

“Perfect timing.” He gives her a quick kiss while they walk towards the board room.

Chloe walks around the corner still shocked by what she heard. She had to tell Philip what happened and right away.

[villa281]

This is my kind of soap. Excellent chapters Brady Diva, can't wait to read more.

[fluffysmom]

Fabulous chapters Bradydiva. I can hardly wait to see what happens next.

[villa281]

Jul 28, 2013 23:07:54 GMT -5 fluffysmom said:

Fabulous chapters Bradydiva. I can hardly wait to see what happens next.

They were really great. What I loved the most about them is that they brought out so many conflicting feelings in me. My heart broke for Stephanie and Philip, but I was definitely intrigued by Stephanie and E.J.

[gapeach]

Can't wait to see Phillip's reaction to what Chloe tells him. I think EJ really does have feelings for Stephanie!!

[MrsM]

Uh oh. I sense trouble for EJ and Melanie.

[bradydiva06]

Love Games

Philip couldn’t concentrate at the board meeting. His eyes just kept lingering on EJ and Stephanie. Everything about the two of them still seemed off. He had gotten word back from his guys that were following EJ and they said nothing was amiss. Philip wasn’t buying it. He knew something was off, it was killing him that he couldn’t prove it.

What could he say about it without sounding like a complete jackass? Stephanie wouldn’t even look his direction today. He didn’t blame her. The last time they talked he had given her the cold shoulder because he couldn’t handle being rejected again. He wishes that he was stronger and just told her how he felt. He knew just by her demeanor today it was going to be hard to get her to listen. He had to try, he had to let her know he was wrong. He had to let her know that he still loved her. He needed to know she felt the same way about him before tomorrow.

“Mr. Kiriakis.” The chairman of the board called out his name, by the look on his face and the sternness in his voice. He must have said his name more than once.

“Yes.” Philip clears his voice and looks over at the chairman. He can see EJ give a smug smile which made him just want to reach across the table and wipe it off his face.

“Do you have anything else to say or add to the meeting?” He asked again.

“No, I’m just glad that the fundraiser was a success. Titan will do anything to help with the continued success of the new wing.”

“Well we are glad to hear about Titan’s continued to support in this hospital. Well if we have nothing else this meeting is adjourned.”

Philip stood to his feet as soon as he called the meeting adjourned. It seemed EJ was also on his feet just as quick. He had his hand on Stephanie’s side trying to guide her out of the room right away.

A few of the board members steps in front of him and congratulate him on the upcoming nuptials. Melanie smiles at him and they both turn to tell them thank you. When he looks up Stephanie and EJ are already out of the room. He excuses himself from the group and tells Melanie he would be right back so he can head outside. He was hoping that they were still in the lobby.

When he walks out the lobby was full so he looked around quickly for them. He didn’t see any site of them. When he went over to the office and the lights were out. They weren’t there. He turns his head to see them stepping into the elevator then the doors closing behind them.

He rushes over to the elevator and starts hitting the down button hoping to catch them. It was too late their elevator was going down.

“Philip where are you going in such a hurry?” Melanie called after him.

“I need to tell Stephanie something.” Philip told her.

“Can it wait?” Melanie asked him with an exasperated sigh. He stares at her. He didn’t know how to tell her no it couldn’t. That he needed to know if she still loved him and he’s afraid they both rushed into things way too quickly.

“What I have to say can’t wait.” Chloe said from behind her.

Philip looks at her quizzically and so does Melanie.

“I need to talk to you right now Philip and alone.” Chloe told him firmly.

“About what?” Philip asked her. Melanie links her arm with Philip and plants her feet firmly letting them know she was going to stay.

“I thought I said alone.” Chloe reiterated.

“We’re going to be married so whatever you have to say can be said in front of me.”

“You really want me to say this in front of you.” Chloe questioned her.

“I’d like you to just say this because I was trying to tell someone something important too. I’m sure whatever it is we can resolve the manner right now.”

“Fine we’ll do it your way.” Chloe said while staring at Melanie. “I think you need to know this before you get married to her tomorrow. I overheard Melanie and EJ talking in the hallway before the board meeting.”

Philip could feel Melanie’s grip lighten and she looked white as a ghost.

“About what?” Philip asked.

“She was telling EJ to do his job and to keep-“

“His end of the bargain for the children’s wing.” Melanie interjected. “He was stating that Dimera Enterprises was going to give less than they originally agreed too.”

“It’s just like a Dimera to welch on their end of a deal.” Philip said through gritted teeth.

“That’s not what I heard.” Chloe corrected Melanie. Melanie gives her a look pleading her not to continue. She looked like she was willing to offer her anything. She wasn’t going to let her friend marry Melanie under false pretenses.

Philip looks at Chloe now with concern. She starts to fidget with her hands this was always something she did when she was about to tell him something big. “What’s going on Chloe.”

“I was going to see Daniel and I saw EJ and Melanie talking. I thought it was strange but when I came up they were arguing. She told EJ to live up to his end of the bargain and make sure that he kept seeing Stephanie and kept her away from you. She gave him the fuels project so he could destroy it in order for him to see Stephanie.”

Philip’s whole body tenses up. Melanie tightens her grip on his arm and he shrugs her off. She looks at him with tears in her eyes.

“That’s a complete lie Philip.” Melanie said quickly. “I would never do anything like this.”

“Philip I’m not lying. I know what I heard. I think you should know this before you walk down the aisle with her. I’m sorry to tell you this way but you had to know.” Chloe explained to him.

“Why would you tell him something so untrue? Think about it Philip. How would I get access to the project? I haven’t stepped into Titan since I left the company. Why would I give EJ the project for him to date Stephanie? They were dating well after our engagement and it was a surprise to the both of us. I love you baby I would never betray your trust like this.”

“Save your lies Melanie. I don’t want to hear them anymore. I can’t believe you did this.” Philip said through gritted teeth.

“You believe her over me. You’re fiancé.” Melanie said in disbelief.

“Ex-Fiance.” Philip corrected her. “It is all starting to make sense.”

Philip throws his hand up thinking about all the times he saw Melanie and EJ together. All the times the conversation completely stopped and seemed to shift to a different subject when he was around, or how he left his computer up countless times without shutting it down or putting it on password lock. He didn’t think he needed to do that around her. He won’t be so naïve again.

“These lies can’t be making any sense to you. I didn’t do this. I love you Philip. I would never do this.” Melanie said through the tears.

“Lies.”

“Yes lies.” Melanie pleaded. She walks closer to him.

“The only lies I’m hearing right now are from you. I can’t believe I trusted you. You stole the information for the fuels project before and gave the information to the Dimeras. It almost cost me my life last time. I won’t continue to sit around and be played as a fool Melanie.”

“Philip, don’t do this.” Melanie pleaded him.

“Don’t do what?” Philip asked her. “You did this. Now I’m finishing this. Mel it’s over.”

Philip heads for the elevator. He could hear Melanie pleading for him to wait. He had to leave. He couldn’t take anymore of her lies. He had to see Stephanie. He had to make things right between them. He had to let her know how he really felt and let her know what a weasel and a snake EJ really was.

Love Games

Stephanie rolls over in the bed and pulls the covers closer to her body. EJ kisses her shoulder and she thinks to herself that had to be the most mind-shattering love making they have had. She needed to physical with him to get seeing Philip out of her mind. She didn’t expect to get so lost in everything.

Her mind was racing right now trying to put everything together. She couldn’t explain how she felt about EJ. She didn’t know herself, plus she couldn’t even explain what they were doing. They hadn’t really defined their relationship. All she knew was he made her felt good and alive when they were together. No one has ever made her feel so alive before. She needed this, especially after everything that happened between her and Philip. Seeing him today just made her realize there was just one more day till he was a married man. That was a hard realization to swallow, so she wouldn’t even look at him for fear of breaking down in the board room. She didn’t want to give him that satisfaction after he left things the way he did at that ball.

“What are you thinking about?” He asked her while continuing to kiss on her shoulder and making her way up to her neck.

“What just happened?” Stephanie said with a laugh. That was sort of the truth.
She couldn’t really tell him everything she was thinking right now.

“I really need to explain that to you?” EJ asked her. She nudges him with her elbow and he laughs. “I’m sorry just some very passionate love making. You bring it out in me. You’re so beautiful.”

“No one’s around you don’t have to do the sweet talking.” Stephanie teased.

“I don’t need anyone around to say how I truly feel.” EJ told her.

“How do you truly feel?” Stephanie asked while sitting up in the bed now.

“I have feelings for you that I haven’t felt in a long time for another woman. I think you are smart, sexy, beautiful, confident, and courageous.” Stephanie looks down at the word courageous. She definitely didn’t feel that about herself right now. “I don’t want to scare you off or anything but things are different for me now. I think I missed out on an opportunity to have this on that missed date in Rome. I don’t want to miss out on it again.”

EJ wraps his arms around her waist and pulls her close to him. He kisses her softly and the kiss soon intensifies. His tongue traces her bottom lip seeking entrance to explore more of her sweet mouth. She opens her mouth slightly and his tongue eagerly enters. She moans slightly and grinds her hips against him.

“Um you are going to get me started again.” EJ tells her. She can feel his arousal pressed against her thigh.

“Would that be so bad?” She asked with a laugh.

“Not at all.” EJ told her. He starts to kiss her again when he hears a loud pounding at the door. He rolls over and looks at her door. Stephanie sits up in the bed. She slips on her robe.

“I wonder who it can be at this hour.” Stephanie told him.

EJ slips on his shorts and jeans now too. Stephanie stands from the bed and heads into her living room. The knocking only gets louder. EJ is right behind her before he can tell her to let him answer she is already answering the door. A bewildered Philip is at the door. He starts to talk to speak, but he stops when he sees EJ standing there without his shirt.

“Philip, what are you doing here?” Stephanie questioned him.

“You son of a bitch.” Philip said while walking into the apartment and charging right for EJ. Stephanie steps between them.

“Again what are you doing here?” Stephanie asked him. She could see that Philip was fuming that she stepped between the two of them. She didn’t understand what was going on here. His sudden urge to attack and kill EJ when he would be getting married tomorrow.

“I’m trying to save you from making any further mistakes with him Stephanie.” Philip told her.

“Further mistakes.” Stephanie laughs. She can’t believe the nerve of him.

“Yes mistakes. He’s been lying to you Stephanie.” Philip tells her.

“Lying this is rich.” EJ finally said. “I think you should go. We want to enjoy our evening together. Not have you barging in and accusing me of things that aren’t true.”

“Oh everything I’m about to tell her is the truth.” Philip told him through clinched teeth.

“Philip whatever you have to say I don’t want to hear it. The last few weeks we’ve been playing this game… You are supposed to get married tomorrow. I have moved on with EJ. You have to accept that.”

Philip sighs and looks between EJ and Stephanie. He can’t believe the number he has pulled on her. “I’m not getting married tomorrow to Melanie or any other day. I can’t marry her when I’m still in love with you.”

“Don’t do this Philip.” Stephanie said with tears in her eyes. She wanted him to say this so badly to her a few months ago. He had the worst timing for this realization. Everything is so complicated between them.

“Don’t do what?” Philip asked her stepping closer to her. “I can’t deny what I feel for you no matter how much I try. I love you more than I have loved anyone or anything in my life. I tried to walk away because I thought we weren’t right for each other and that we were too different. That being apart is what we needed since we aren’t alike. I realize that I can’t do that. Because a life without you wouldn’t be worth living Stephanie. You are my better half, my heart and I can’t deny that anymore.”

She could feel her heart swooning from this declaration but all these games and lies had her in a tangled mess could she trust Philip with her heart again. If she could trust him with her heart again, she couldn’t trust that Melanie wouldn’t worm her way back between them again with some sort of lie. So maybe she didn’t need the heartache.

“I know you can’t love EJ the way you love me. You can’t because he’s playing games with your heart.” Philip told her while sneering at EJ.

“Games.” EJ said with a laugh. “The only person playing games is you. You hip hop between these two women like its nothing. Did Melanie say something to upset you so now you are here pouring your heart out to Stephanie? I mean how long will it take you to figure out that it’s Melanie you truly want?” EJ walks behind Stephanie and puts his hand on her shoulder. “I think its time you leave.”

“Take your hands off of her.” Philip warned him. “Do you really want to critique people’s love lives? Stephanie he’s been lying to you.” Stephanie looks up at EJ and he’s stone-faced while he stares at Philip.

“Leave Philip.” EJ roared that it made Stephanie jump a little.

“No, I won’t leave until I tell her what you and Melanie have been doing.”

“What are you talking about?” Stephanie asked while tightening her robe. “What is he talking about EJ? What have you been doing with Melanie?”

“You know how I told you about getting the fuels project a few months ago. I came to you after it was destroyed mysteriously destroyed. I told you EJ had destroyed it and you defended him telling me he couldn’t have. I wasn’t wrong Steph. Melanie gave him the fuels project in exchange she wanted him date you and keep you away from me so she could marry me without having to worry about you and me getting back together.”

Stephanie steps away from EJ and looks at him. She looked him dead in the eyes hoping that what Philip was telling her was a lie. He looks down unable to keep the eye contact any longer. This just confirmed to her this was true. She couldn’t believe he betrayed her. He was a Dimera and this was what they did. He told her that. She didn’t listen. She was fool enough to let her guard down around him. She felt sick and dirty now for being with him and letting her guard down and letting him in.

“Is this true?” She asked him. She wanted to hear him say it. “Is it?” she asked again. She wanted to sound strong and demanding but you could hear her voice creak and the shakiness too it. She needed to hear it from him.

“Chloe overheard Melanie and him arguing about this at the hospital. It’s true Stephanie.” Philip told her.

“Stephanie let-.” She slaps him hard across the face before he can finish the statement.

“I want you to leave now.” Stephanie told EJ sternly.

“Steph-.”

“Now.” She said while pointing at the door. “Both of you.” She said while turning to see a stunned Philip. “I need you both to leave so I can process this.”

EJ walks over to the couch to gather his things. Stephanie could feel his eyes on her pleading from him to look at her but she couldn’t. She stared away trying to keep the tears at bay. She didn’t want to show how bad he had hurt her in front of his. She holds her robe closer to her body and watches both men leave the apartment. She closes the door tightly and leans against the doorframe and finally lets the tears fall. She thought she was playing a controlled game to get Philip back and now she finds out she was the one getting played in all of this.

Love Games

Stephanie walks into her office. It had only been a few days since Philip told her the truth about Melanie and EJ conspiring to keep them apart. Both men had been blowing up her phone ever since. She didn’t want to talk to them or anyone at that moment. So she called in for personal days and went up to the Green Mountain Lodge to be away from everything.

Stephanie looks around her office and maybe she should have told her secretary to clear out her office before coming. She was looking for a place to set her bag down. The room was full purple lilies her favorite flower. It seemed both men were trying to outdo each other in getting her attention and her love.

“Wow.” She heard Arianna proclaim when walking into her office. “Who are all these from?”

“EJ and Philip.” Stephanie told her friend.

Arianna looked at her with a raised eyebrow. Stephanie could see the questions forming with her friend. Stephanie had called her and told her the whole dirty truth. She was waiting for Ari to tell her, “I told you so.” She never did and she thanked her silently because she didn’t want to hear it.

“I haven’t looked at any of the cards and I haven’t called either man yet.” Stephanie told her. Stephanie steps around her desk and takes a set.

“Why not?” Arianna asked. She sits down in one of the chairs in front of her desk. She removes the flowers and stares at her friend to let her know she is not getting away from this question.

“I don’t want to hear EJ’s lies about the situation. I feel foolish for even believing him. Philip I’m just scared.”

“Scared of what?” Ari asked her.

“I don’t want to rush anything. I want him to be sure that things are over with Melanie. I’m done with this game that is happening with the three of us. Last time we reconciled he slide the ring back on and it seemed it came off just as quickly. I don't want that again.”

“I understand where you are coming from and I would have reservations too. I have talked to Melanie and she has tried her best with repairing things with her and Philip. He won’t hear of it. He wants you back.”

“Ari if only things were that simple.”

“They are. Call these two men and end this. Go with what your heart wants. I have to go though. I just came by to drop off a few donations from the pub for the next charity auction event.” Ari said while standing.

“Thanks.” Stephanie told her. She stands to let her friend out. She takes her phone out of the purse and stares at the screen deciding which man should she call.

She hears a knock at her door. Before she could answer to come in or not they were already making there way. It was no surprise to her when she saw EJ standing there. What surprised her was even with all the anger and hurt. She felt her heartbeat quicken just being near him again.

“You told me a few weeks ago that you owed me. I’m cashing that in right now. I want you to listen to me. I mean really listen to me Stephanie. I need to tell you what really happened.” EJ told her while closing the door.

Stephanie had forgotten about telling him she owed him after he stalled Melanie so she and Philip could talk. They could have been conspiring that whole time. She really doesn’t feel like she owes him now.

“One minute.” She told him anyway. She folds her arms across her chest and takes a seat at her desk. She wanted to keep the distance between them so he couldn’t play any tricks or mind games.

“Stephanie it is not what it seems with Melanie and I. She did ask me to help keep you away from Philip in exchange she would give me the fuel’s project.”

“Did you take the project?” Stephanie asked him. EJ bites his bottom lip. He was going to tell her no but he said when he got in here no more lies. So he couldn’t tell her a lie on this but he couldn’t tell her the truth either. This could incriminate her. “So you did take it.” Stephanie sighs and opens her drawer to pull out work. “I think you should just go.”

“I let her think we were working together but I didn’t work with her. I did everything you wanted me to do to help you get with Philip. I kept her away so you guys would have alone time. I played the dotting boyfriend to get him relied up like we agreed not to keep the two of you apart. I let you get your alone time with him so many times. If I were trying to keep you apart I wouldn’t have done that. I keep my end of the bargain even at the ball. I have to tell you, while I stood there trying to stall Mel for you I wanted to stop and let her go find Philip. I was hoping that things ended the way they did that night.”

“What?” Stephanie asked him. Trying to make sure she heard him right.

“Yes I was hoping that things went bad. I didn’t want to see you broken up about it like you were, but I realized when I was standing there with her, was that I didn’t want to lose you. While we were playing this silly game to get you back with Philip, and me back with Sami something happened. I didn’t see it right away and I didn’t let myself feel it right away. I was denying what was building inside of me, and what was happening between us. I can’t deny it anymore.”

“Don’t say it EJ.” Stephanie told him. She knew what he was going to say but she couldn’t stand to hear it and let herself get confused anymore.

“I know you don’t believe what I’m saying right now but it is true Stephanie. You got in here when I wasn’t looking.” EJ said while putting a hand on his heart.

“It doesn’t change the fact that you lied to me.” Stephanie told him. “I don’t trust you and you could be lying to me right now.”

“I’m not. I didn’t conspire with Melanie to keep you and Philip apart. I did what you wanted me to do. Only problem was I couldn’t stop myself from feeling the way I do for you.”

“You should have told me EJ. You let me sleep with you with these secrets between us.”

“I wish I could go back and change things.”

“Because of your lies whatever feelings that were developing between us stop now.”

“Steph...”

“I think you’re minute is up.” Stephanie told him firmly. She tried to remain strong in front of him but she could feel the front starting to fade.

“I’ll go. But I don’t want you to doubt what I said. I care for you more than you’ll ever know.” EJ told her before leaving the room.

Stephanie leans back in her chair. She thinks about what EJ said and she wanted to believe him but she knew that she couldn’t trust him. He had proven that more than once. She couldn’t keep giving him chances.

Stephanie hears another knock at the door. She taps a pen on her desk. EJ was being very persistent today.

“EJ I told you to go.” Stephanie said without looking up.

“Good.” Philip said walking into the room.

“Philip.” Stephanie said while standing from her desk now.

“I hope you like the flowers. They are almost as beautiful as you.”

“Thank you.”

“You have more of your favorites waiting for you at your apartment.” Philip told her. He rounds her office desk and pulls her in his arms. She didn’t fight him pulling her in. She welcomed his strong arms around her. Whenever he held her close like this it felt like home. She missed that warm safe feeling. Her heart still quickened around him too. She was hoping that he couldn’t feel it since they were so close.

“Can we talk?” Stephanie asked him while stepping back.

“That’s what I came here to ask you.” Philip said with a laugh. “At least we are on the right page.”

“Philip I just talked to EJ.”

“Did he deny his involvement in this whole thing?” Philip asked. Stephanie nodded her head yes. “Typical.” He said with a look of disgust. “He has no morals. He did this all to get the fuel project and make money damn who it hurts.”

“I don’t want to talk about EJ anymore. I want to talk about us.” Stephanie told him.

“I feel the same. Stephanie I haven’t been able to get you out of my mind since that kiss on Christmas Eve. I tried pushing you away thinking it was the best for the two of us.”

“You have to stop making decisions like that for us. I gave you the opportunity to tell me how you felt when I told you how I felt. You pushed me away.”

“Right before you talked to me EJ and Melanie were both telling me lies. EJ was telling me lies about how you guys just talked about how happy the two of you were together and she was glad you were finally over me. Melanie was telling me she talked to you and you said the same thing. Then she went on and on about how she was worried about us getting back together and how foolish she felt.”

“What?” Stephanie runs her hands through her hair. EJ lied to her again stating he never did anything to undermine her plans with Philip. He just kept lying to her. “Well I poured my heart out to you. Didn’t you think that was odd if what they were saying was true?”

“I wasn’t thinking. I was just thinking about protecting my heart and doing what was best for us. I couldn’t take you telling me one more time that we weren’t right for each other when I knew in my heart we are. While you were talking I was waiting for you to pull the rug out from under me. So I panicked and ended the conversation for you. I’m not proud of what I did. If you give us another chance. I want us to start fresh forget what happened in the past.”

“Philip, I don’t want you to not talk to me on things. I want you to tell me whatever you are feeling. You don’t have to hide any part of yourself from me. I don’t want you to change. I just want you to be the best I know you can be. The man I have fallen in love with.”

“I promise I will do that for now on.” Philip said while pulling Stephanie into his body and kissing her softly on the lips. She moves her hands up his chest and puts her hand around his neck. It felt so right to be back in his arms. He pulls her in closer and pushes her against her desk so she is now sitting on it. He slid his tongue in slowly to get more reacquainted with her sweet mouth. He heard no objections nothing but the sound of a sweet moan from her mouth which drove him wild.

“Philip, let’s get out of here.”

“You don’t have to tell me that twice Ms. Johnson.” He told her. He takes her hand and they hurry out of her office back to her place. So they become more reacquainted.

Stephanie closes the door to her room and tightens her robe. She steps into the kitchen to get something to drink before heading back to her bedroom. She didn’t think Philip would let her be gone long anyway before he would come find her.

Stephanie hears a knock on the door. She goes over and a flower delivery guy is there.

“Stephanie Johnson.” He asked.

“Yes.”

“Sign please.” He asked her while he shoved the clipboard towards her. She signs for the flowers. It seemed 3 men came up the stairwell carrying multiple vases of red stem roses. They had to make multiple trips. They filled her living room with flowers. The delivery guy gives her a card. “You’re one lucky girl. This guy really wanted to show he cared.” He said with a smile before walking out.

She looks down at the card and it had the phoenix emblem on it. She was mistaken before thinking that both men sent the lilies to her office. There was no mistaking who brought the flowers now.

Stephanie opens the card and reads it. “You will always have a special place in my heart. I will continue to show to you just how much I care for you. Love EJ.”

She tears up the card and throws it away before heading back to her bedroom. She was through with his games and was done with him. No matter how many times he called or how many flowers he sent.

Stephanie walks back in her bedroom. Philip is sitting up staring at her. She feels her cheeks flush.

"Hey beautiful who was at the door?" he asked while she got back in the bed.

"Flower delivery guy." Stephanie told him. "Don't go into the living room. I'm afraid you won't be able to walk around with all the red roses in there." Stephanie warned him. Philip frowns. They agreed not to talk about what happened in their relationship with EJ and Melanie. He didn't like Dimera trying to make his presence felt soon.

"Don't worry I will get rid of them." Stephanie told him. She slides into the bed right next to him. He wraps his arms around her and pulls her close to him.

"I'm not worried about it. He can send all the flowers he wants. You are right here with me. I will never take that for granted again. I will never let someone come between us again."

Stephaniae kisses him softly and lays her hand against his chest and she could feel his heartbeat under her. She was happy to hear him say that and she felt the same way. She knew one thing. She would never play a love game with the heart again.

~The End~

[fluffysmom]

Perfect ending to the story. So glad that Philip and Stephanie finally found out the truth and reunited. You even made me like EJ during parts of the story. I think EJ really did fall for Stephanie but he told too many lies for her to ever forgive him. And her heart still belonged to Philip.

Thanks for sharing this great story with us bradydiva06. I hope to read more of your fan fics.

[villa281]

I loved the ending, but so sad that it is over. I hope to read more Phinie fan fic from you soon.

[bradydiva06]

Thank you ladies. I truly appreciate your kind words. Yes I have two fics that I'm currently writing. I left love games where it ended or I could come back. A Dimera doesn't give up easily.

[MrsM]

Wow. Great ending. I can't believe that Stephanie was that quick to go back to Philip though.

[gapeach]

Sept 3, 2013 19:36:42 GMT -5 bradydiva06 said:

Thank you ladies. I truly appreciate your kind words. Yes I have two fics that I'm currently writing. I left love games where it ended or I could come back. A Dimera doesn't give up easily.

I agree. EJ would NOT give up that easily! We need a sequel!!!

[Kpatch]

That was a very fun story bradydiva06. Thank you for finishing it and for letting Philip get the girl he wanted! Mwah!