Love Games updated complete 9/1/2013 (Read 8,918 times)

[bradydiva06]

I'm sorry for the delay. It's been a busy week. I will post more to get you guys caught up with the phinie board. I'm about to post chapter 15 there. But here is 2 chapters because of the wait. Thanks Villa for the compliments. I think I will post Love Again and a Second Chance at Love too here.

Love Games-6

“Can we talk for a second?” Philip asked her. She felt her heart racing from that one question and just being alone with him right now. The proximity was making her knees weak. She leans her body against her desk and nods her head yes to play it cool since she really couldn’t get the words together. Philip takes a step closer now and she felt more unglued by each step. She sits down in her chair still trying to play cool. If he looked down for any reason he’d see her knees were practically knocking together.

“Are you ok with going dancing with us tonight?” He asked. Stephanie wanted to roll her eyes that this is what he wanted to talk about. It was nothing really at all.

“Why wouldn’t I be?” Stephanie finally managed to ask him while looking away.

Philip walks closer to her desk now and Stephanie felt like if he came any closer the game would truly be over. He would be able to hear her heart pounding and know she and EJ were just pulling the wool over his eyes.

He runs his hand through his hair trying to think of the right words to say. He didn’t want it to come off wrong. He couldn’t hurt her anymore.

“I just wanted to make sure.” Philip said while shoving his hands in his pockets. “I don’t want things to be weird between us.”

“Weird.” Stephanie said with a laugh. “What’s more weird then going to dance practice with your ex-fiance and her new boyfriend with your current fiancé. Nothing in Salem is normal.” She laughs again.

Philip gulps and tries not to clinch his teeth it was hard to stomach hearing her refer to EJ as her boyfriend. “Boyfriend huh.” He repeated.

Stephanie didn’t even notice that she had referred to EJ as that. She stands up with her briefcase and looks him in the eye and says. “Yes my boyfriend.” She said as firmly as she could. She wanted to be convincing with that statement for the games sake.

“A few weeks ago I thought you were really into Nathan.” Philip reminds her.

“Yes he told me he was interested in your fiancé.” She tells him. “Then this surprise engagement happened and he’s tried to come back but EJ and I have hit it off.”

“Hit it off.” Philip says with a laugh. “Stephanie he’s a criminal.”

“Philip don’t start.” Stephanie insists while moving away from her desk now to head for the door.

Philip steps in front of her. He grabs her hand to stop her so they can continue to talk. He looks down at their fingers intertwined and wondered what happened to them. Why they were so distant and he loved how he felt when he was with her. Stephanie pulls her hand away from him and then runs it through her hair and starts fidgeting with her collar on her shirt. She often did that when she was nervous. Philip smiles a little knowing she was just as rattled.

“I’m sorry.” He tells her. “I just want to make sure you are ok. Especially with today.”

“What’s today?” Stephanie asks him while putting a hand on his hip.

“December 18.” Philip reminds her.

“A week before Christmas.” Stephanie says softly. “I’m not going get sentimental and go all ballistic.” She jokes. Philip laughs a little.

“That’s good but today was a first for us. It was our first kiss the start to an … us.” He says softly.

Stephanie was surprised that he remembered that. This was one of the reasons why she loves him so much. “It is.” She said with a laugh. “Surprised you remember.”

“I remember everything.” He told her. Stephanie stares at him while he says those words. They seemed to hypnotize her. She hated how he could say something like this and completely unnerve her. If he remembers how great their love was why throw it away for this she wanted to ask. She sees him step closer again and grabs her hand and she losses all sense of control at this moment. Whatever he wanted to do she was his. She hears her phone ring and Philip’s phone ring at the same time. They both pull away from each other and answer their phones.

“Where are you honey buns?” EJ asks sarcastically on the phone. “You let me with the teeny booper too long and she is walking to the stairwell now.”

“I’m on my way just had to shut down my computer” Stephanie told him.

“I saw Mr. Kiriakis sneak into the room.” EJ tells her.

“Bye EJ.” Stephanie said while hanging up her phone. She thought to herself you can’t sneak anything by him.

“No need to come up.” Philip tells Melanie. “I’m on my way now. I just ran into Stephanie and I have her with me.” He tells her. Stephanie rolls her eyes at this comment. He made that lie up really quickly for her.

“Soon to be wifey checking up on us.” Stephanie says while opening the door to her office.

“We are cutting it close.” Philip says ignoring her last comment and heading out of her office. He hits the button to call for the elevator. He looks over at Stephanie who is staring straight ahead ignoring him now.

He sighs he knows he probably dug himself a bigger hole by not telling Melanie the truth, and Stephanie hearing that lie. The elevator comes and he held the door open so she can step in. She walks in to the back of the elevator and looks away from him. He turns to face her and she is still looking away from him. He presses the button for the garage level. She still won’t speak or look at him. He had to fix this before they went to the practice. Philip stops the elevator and turns to face Stephanie.

“Steph are you upset?” Philip asked.

“Philip cut the elevator back on.” Stephanie said firmly.

“I’m just worried about you. I hate to see you upset-.” Philip started.

“Philip please cut the elevator back on.” Stephanie said again firmly but louder. She starts to fidget a little as panic started to set in. She felt like the walls were caving in, like she was back in that morgue drawer again. Believing this is how it was going to end for her. Her breathing begins to become quicker while the panic set in. She was gasping for air. Philip turns the elevator back on and turns to her grabbed her hands and coaching her to breathe.

Hearing his words were starting to calm her. It was like when he found her and she was beginning to give up hope in that morgue drawer. The elevator doors open and Melanie and EJ were about to step in. Philip and Stephanie turn to face them pulling their hands away from each other and stepping out of the elevator.

“We thought we were going to have to call the national guards on you guys.” Melanie joked while looking between Philip and Stephanie. You could obviously see she wasn’t happy to see them in the elevator like that.

“No need.” Stephanie said softly. “Let’s go to dance practice.” She said with a laugh and starts to walk over to her car. She looks back at Philip and she sees he reaches for Melanie’s hand and she pulls away from him. She seems to be giving him grief about what just happened.

“Should I be giving you the same ear full?” EJ asked her while placing his hand on her back. He could feel her shaking against him. “Is something wrong?” He asked her urgently.

“I’m fine.” Stephanie insisted.

“I think I deserve the truth after having to sit down here with Melanie and hear her talk about gods knows what. I’m still confused on what she was going on about while you guys reconnected.” EJ told her while stopping her before she went to her car.

“We talked up stairs for a brief moment. He brought up old memories but he’s still engaged to the twit.” Stephanie said with a smile. “I might have just embarrassed myself with a mini panic attack in the elevator when he stopped it. I freaked. I don’t really do confined spaces anymore after last summer.”

EJ sighs and pulls her in close to him. It’s the first time he really got to see what his actions have done to her. He was so caught up in revenge since Philip had his father locked up, he didn’t think about how he was hurting or how it would affect them. He runs his hand down her spine and brushes her hair from her face.

"I'm sorry you know that and that I would never hurt you again." EJ staid while looking in her eyes so she knew that he meant it.

Stephanie was surprised by his emotion. She nods her head and lets him know yes she knows that. "It was part of the truce." Stephanie jokes with him.

"Truce or not, I wouldn't … you’re special to me." EJ told her while kissing her on her forehead and opening the door to her car and letting her in before walking to his car. Stephanie sits at her driver seat conflicted now with what he said and did he really mean it. She wanted to get out and ask him what he meant by that but he was already in his car pulling out of his space.

Love Games-7

Stephanie couldn’t get into the parking lot to the dance studio fast enough. She was hot on EJ’s trail. She wanted him to explain what he meant when he told her she was special to him. She hated how he left things like that. Was he now playing games with her mind or was he really feeling something?

“EJ.” She calls to him when he steps out of his car. He turns and smiles at her and walks towards her and pulls her into a hug.

“Stop playing the game so convincing.” Stephanie whispered in his ear while they hugged. “What did you mean early?”

“By what?” he asked while pretending to be innocent. He whispered in her ear while still holding her.

“I’m special to you.” Stephanie repeated.

“You are special to me.” EJ told her while taking her hand and now walking towards the door where Philip and Melanie were waiting for them. Melanie was still distant with Philip, and you could obviously see they were arguing. She forces up a smile when she sees Stephanie and EJ walking in. She didn’t want any signs of fighting in front of Melanie.

“Are you guys ready to dance?” Melanie asked jokingly.

“Of course.” EJ beamed while putting his arm around Stephanie and pulling her close to him. Philip stares at him obviously stewing about their embrace. He turns around quickly though and follows Melanie who was leading them to the ball room.

Stephanie pulls away from EJ and starts to walk ahead of him.

“Are you upset?” EJ asked her softly.

“No, I just don’t feel the need to play the game while we aren’t being watched.” Stephanie said softly while continuing to keep a fast pace.

“Must I remind you the whole room is our audience.” EJ told her while finally catching up to her.

“Why do you want to play this game again?” Stephanie asked him. “You told me it was Sami. Sami hasn’t been around a lot of the time we have been together.” EJ stares back at her blankly and Stephanie feels like she is on to something now with this line of questioning.

He quickly recovers by whispering to her. “It is Sami. I feel your side is top heavy right now and mine will come.”

“Is that it or are you just playing a game with me? Is this a way to get back at Philip even more?” Stephanie whispered back to him sternly. Maybe a little too sternly because Melanie turns when she hears all the forceful whispers. They both smile at her and EJ puts his arm around Stephanie again and begins to run his hand up and down her arm.

“I meant what I said at that car. I would never do that again.” EJ reiterated. “You should be thanking me.”

“Thanking you.” Stephanie questioned him

“I had to spend my time with Hannah Montana over there so you guys could have that alone time.” EJ said with a groan. Stephanie laughs a little at that nickname. “That was torture.” He whispered to her.

“I will make it up to.” Stephanie said with a laugh. She knows that was definite torture

“You definitely will my dear.” He said while staring into her eyes. Stephanie looks to the floor and shifts uncomfortably when he does that. “My objective is clear like yours. I want Samantha and you want Philip. We will get them.” EJ said with a wink.

“I have to warn you guys. Ms. Lucille can be a little crazy.” Melanie said while doing the crazy hand gesture. “But I hear she is a genius. We don’t have much time for practice. Philip was thinking of a New Years wedding.” Stephanie’s heart sinks a little thinking that is just 2 weeks away. They can’t be serious. She looks at EJ a little concerned and he gives her a look to breathe and relax. She just didn’t know if she could do that. “But we rethought it and came up with Valentines Day. Isn’t that romantic?” she asked while wrapping her arms around Philip’s neck and kissing him.

“So romantic.” Stephanie said through clinched teeth.

“Why hello?” Ms. Lucille says while walking in the room and wrapping her scarf around her neck. She was a very flamboyant lady. “We have new dance partners.” She spots me and EJ pretty quickly in the crowd. It looks like she is very fond of EJ by the way that she is staring at him.

“I might have competition tonight.” Stephanie teased him.

“I’m going to cling to you for dear life if she pursues something.” EJ whispers to her.

“Oh it looks like another couple too.” Ms. Lucille beams. Stephanie turns her eyes to the door and sees Nathan walk in Bridget, one of the nosiest and most gossipy nurses of the bunch. She was one of the girls that seemed to relish in the hospital drama of Philip and Melanie.

Melanie seems to stare her down too. Stephanie notices that Melanie is not pleased at all to see Nathan walk in with her. She always had feelings that she wasn’t over Nathan, the way she is staring down Bridget just confirms it for her.

“Hey guys.” Nathan said while walking over.

“I never would have expected to see the two of you here. Are you really interested in this dance class?” Stephanie asked while looking between him and Bridget.

“Yeah I thought she was only interested in sleeping her way through the hospital.” Melanie co-signed.

“You’re one to talk with your porn career.” Bridget said while popping her gum.

“Well I was supposed to go to the movies tonight.” Nathan says while looking at Stephanie. “That fell through and I ran into Bridget, who asked me to come with her here. She needs practice before her sister’s wedding” Nathan tells her.

“Nathan and I are going to go together.” Bridget said while grabbing Nathan’s hand and smiling at Stephanie. Stephanie shrugs it off quickly. She wasn’t bothered by it one bit.

“Well let’s get started.” Ms. Lucille says while cutting on the music. “We will start with a waltz.”

Stephanie walks over to EJ and extends her hand out and he takes his and interlocks their hands together. She stares at them together for a moment and then looks away from him. EJ pulls her in close and rests his hand on the small of her back sending shivers down her spine. Half of his hand was on her skin and the other half on her dress. It felt like her skin was on fire from his touch.

“Are you still mad?” he asks with a laugh. Stephanie ignores the question and continues to dance. He laughs again since she doesn’t respond. “Well if I can complement you. You were right you are an amazing dancer.” Stephanie turns to her and smiles.

“The lady doesn’t lie.” Stephanie tells him while continuing to look away from him.

“See this is what I’m trying to achieve with the classes.” Ms. Lucille said while walking over to EJ and Stephanie. Stephanie stiffens up a little seeing her walk towards them. “They move so fluidly together almost as their bodies are one. Like they have been lovers for years.” She said while circling around EJ and Stephanie. Nathan and Philip both seems to glare when she makes this statement. Now she looks over at Philip and Melanie. “This is the way you will dance on your wedding night.” She promises him. “Switch partners.” She says while grabbing Stephanie’s hand and now leading her over to Philip. Stephanie starts to protest but she could Ms. Lucille already had her standing in front of Philip. “Maybe this will loosen the nerves.” Miss Lucille winks at Philip and Melanie while taking Melanie’s hand and now leading her over to EJ.

Stephanie wasn’t quite sure what had just taken place but before she could really ask she looks up at Philip, who is staring at her and she felt her whole body go weak with that intense stare. He steps closer to her and extends his hand offering to dance. Stephanie tries to act confidently by taking his hand right away but when he pulls her in and his touch on her body almost gave it all away that she wasn’t as calm and cool as she was acting at the moment. He interlocks his hand with hers never breaking his intense stare while they started to dance.

“Much better.” Ms. Lucille noted. While she watches Stephanie and Philip dance. She looks over at Melanie and EJ it still looks like a train wreck so she winces a little and goes over to try to help Melanie with her stance.

“I can’t believe she made us switch. I was getting the hang of it.” Melanie pouted and continued to dance. It seemed as soon as she made that remark she was stepping on EJ’s foot. EJ grimaces a little. “Sorry.” She said with a sheepish smile. EJ looks over at Stephanie and thinks about just how she was going to repay him for this night. “I’m sort of glad she made us switch partners.” She said with a smile.

“Really.” EJ responded definitely wanting to hear this now.

“Yes.” Melanie said while lowering her voice a little. “I wanted to talk to you for a second anyway about your relationship with Stephanie.”

“My relationship with Stephanie.” EJ repeated while lowering his voice now too since she did. “What about it?”

“I want to make sure it remains solid.” Melanie told him. “I saw the exchange off the elevator with her and Philip. I don’t want the rug pulled from under me.”

“You don’t want the money pulled right from under you.” EJ said a little too quickly. Since he was upfront and honest he wanted her to know he saw through her. She hadn’t changed she was still the same gold digger as before. Melanie presses her lips together and smiles

“That too.” Melanie said softly. “Just two months I’m set to be Mrs. Philip Kiriakis the richest woman in Salem. I can’t have Ms. Perfect ruining that for me.” Melanie told him. “The closer you get with her, the better my chances are.” Melanie said with a smile. She could see EJ’s wheels turning what is in it for him. She quickly lets him know while she has his interest. “I heard Philip and Victor on the phone. It seems like they are almost close to getting their hands on another copy of the fuels project. Nick was smart he had another copy made and locked away” EJ’s ears perk up when she says this. If they are able to do that, the deal that he had with the oil companies will definitely be over. “If your relationship goes well with Stephanie until I’m Mrs. Philip Kiriakis I can find a way that the fuel’s project lead just disappears.” Melanie said with a smile.

“Wouldn’t that hinder your chances at being Mrs. Philip Kiriakis.” EJ reminds her. “How do I know this is true?”

“Don’t worry about me. I can always take care of myself. The proof will be sent to your email tonight.” Melanie tells him. “So do we have a deal?” she asks EJ quietly.


“So you guys look like lovers for years.” Philip finally says to break the silence. Stephanie was hoping he’d be swept into the moment and he’d tell her he loved her since this moment was so intense for her. She sighs and laughs.

“I can’t help what a crazy instructor says.” Stephanie reminds him.

“Are you guys serious?” Philip asked her.

“I think we are getting a little too personal.” Stephanie tells him quickly.

“I just worry about you Steph.” Philip tells her.

“Should you?” Stephanie asked him. “You are engaged to another woman now.”

“I will always worry and care about you no matter what.” Philip tells her while looking deeply in her eyes. Letting her knew he truly meant it. She hated when he said or did things like this. It made her hard to remember why they weren’t together in the first place.

“Maybe we should switch partners again?” Lucille asked while dancing into the middle of the dance floor. “It seemed like everyone rose to the occasion. We will have a quick break before we practice some more.” She said with a smile.

Stephanie breaks away from Philip and walks across the room to EJ. EJ takes her into his arms and gives her a strong hug while she buried herself into his arms. Melanie walks away smiling and she walks over and hugs Philip now herself. EJ moves her hair away from her face and lowers his head to whisper in her ear. “Is everything ok? Did he say something to hurt you?” EJ asked her.

“I thought it fit the game better to do this.” Stephanie said while straightening up now and looking EJ in the eyes. EJ smiles at her he knew better it was more then the game. But he lets her think he is fooled for the minute.

“What were you and Melanie talking about?” Stephanie asked.

“I’m surprised you even noticed.” EJ teased. “You guys were in intense talks. You guys tried to up show my awesome dance skills.”

“My skills are so good they can’t be contained.” Stephanie jokes while pushing away from him now. EJ interlocks their fingers and pulls her back to him. She had to admit she felt a rush when she was pressed up against him like this. “You’re touchy feely today.”

“Both of them are in the room. I thought we’d play on that.” EJ said while running his index finger on her jaw line and now lightly grazing his finger across her lips. She hated how he’d tease her with the thought of a kiss or not. He started to inch closer to her now and she realized he wasn’t teasing her this time when his lips collided with her. His kisses were just as smooth as him. He pulls away and smiles at her.

“Today was a big win for you.” He whispered softly against her lips.

[MrsM]

Darn you for making me like EJ!! I am loving this so far!! Can't wait to read more!!

[Kpatch]

Great couple of chapters. I love how Stephanie melts into a bowl of jelly at the slightest touch or look from Philip. I was really hoping you would have them switch partners at dance practice. That was fun.

And I love all those funny names that EJ gives Melanie. LOL.

Thanks for the story BD!

[fluffysmom]

I really liked these chapters. I loved seeing Melanie get all uptight about Stephanie and Philip in the elevator. I am really enjoying EJ in this story. I hope you post more chapters soon.

[gapeach]

Ok I admit it.... I want EJ and Stephanie together in this story. I love the way he is acting around her. Also the way Phillip treated Steph, he doesn't deserve her!!!!

I am ducking now before things start flying my way!!!

[fluffysmom]

I'd like to see some more kisses between Stephanie and EJ. Maybe she can have Philip and EJ after her.

[bradydiva06]

Thanks for the comments everyone. No need to hide gapeach even my die hard phinies @ the board wanted to see more of EJ and Stephanie. I picture EJ being a suave bad boy not to super evil one days made him to be for a while.

Love Games-8

Stephanie looks deeply into his eyes after the kiss. She was surprised that he had kissed her and surprised that she sort of enjoyed the kiss. He smiles back at her and makes her heart flutter a little. She reminds herself it is just a game. That her emotions were playing with her because she was playing it too well. “A big win for you.” EJ repeated softly while putting his hand on the small of her back and turning to face Philip and Melanie.

She could see the kiss affected him. He looked back at her with a mix of shock and disapproval. Her body stiffens a little against EJ’s hand and he runs it up and down her back gently and smiles at her. She hated to admit it was giving her mixed feelings.

“This dance class is pretty fun.” EJ exclaimed.

“Yes we had to make it today because this is the last one before Christmas.” Melanie said while extending her lip out to pout about it. Stephanie tries not to roll her eyes but the urge was definitely taking over. EJ nudges her to remind her to play nice and she continues to smile. “But it’s a full week after Christmas. So I promise to have tons of improvement by the event.”

“Great.” Stephanie said with a smile.

“You guys should come with us.” Melanie suggested.

“Maybe.” Stephanie said again forcing up another smile. It was getting harder and harder for her to keep up the act. Stephanie feels her phone vibrate in her pocket. She smiles because she is saved for the moment. She looks at her phone and see it’s the hospital. “It’s the hospital. I’ll be right back.” Stephanie said while walking out of the dance class. It seemed like faith when Philip got a phone call about the same time.

EJ knows it was no coincidence. He thinks he just answered one of his million business calls he was ignoring just to follow her out. He half heartedly excused himself to follow behind Stephanie. EJ could definitely see the game that they were playing was working for Philip. He was falling hook line and sinker. EJ just wasn’t sure if they’d have to play the game much longer. He really didn’t know how he felt about it either, before he could really think though Melanie was already making her way over to him.

“Did you see how he left out?” Melanie said while pointing to the door where Philip is sneaking out now. “Barely a goodbye.” She muttered.

“Well then I guess you have work to do.” EJ told her while walking away.

“So I guess we have a deal then by that kiss?” Melanie asked him while now moving to get in front of him.

“I never agreed on anything with you.” EJ told her quickly. “That was just me kissing my girlfriend.”

“Girlfriend.” Melanie said with a smile from ear to ear. “Make sure you say that around Philip.”

“Why so he can just chase after his ex-fiance more?” EJ asked her while leaning forward an emphasizing each word to get under her skin. He could see by her shift in body weight and the stern look, that he did just that.

“I’ll get you the proof that they are finding the fuel projects info. I’m this close to finding out his lead contact for that.” Melanie tells him while walking away from him. “Once I get that info I will give it to you so you can do whatever you want with it. Then I’ll be Mrs. Kiriakis. The richest woman in Salem.” She said as she could hardly contain the glee with that last statement. She walks away now concerned with the young doctor and his date. The lady with him excuses herself for a moment and it seemed as she walked away Melanie was reeling the young doctor in. He sees in this marriage she will definitely be trying to have her cake and eat it too by already trying to line up her secret boy toy. He couldn’t tell if she really had feelings for Nathan, or just really liked having the both of them fawn after her.

EJ walks over to the door of the dance room and he sees Stephanie hang up her phone. She is about to walk back in when Philip stops her and starts to question her. He didn’t know if he should stay here or go and say something to break up the conversation.

“What’s going on Philip?” Stephanie asked him now stopping and standing in front of him. Having his hand rested on her arm like this was bringing up old memories and feelings.

“I see you’re still a great dancer.” Philip started out with a smile.

“Yes that skill hasn’t gone away. I know you didn’t want to stop and talk about my dancing though.” Stephanie said while looking him in the eyes now. She sees his facial expressions change so she knew the subject was about to turn about EJ.

“I guess you can see right through me.” Philip told her with a laugh.

“I know you.” Stephanie reminds him.

“Like I know you.” Philip told her right back quickly. Those words seemed to send a tingling sensation down her body. She hated how much he did know her. He might know her so well that he knows this is all a rouse.

“So what do you really want to talk about Philip?” Stephanie asked him.

“What we’ve been talking about? EJ.” He tells her quickly. “You’re playing a dangerous game if you continue on with him.” Philip tells her quickly. “I’m not saying this to hurt you. Have you see what he has done to the woman he’s with. He uses them and pushes them to the curb and their mental state is almost gone after dealing with him.”

“Some could say the same to about you.” Stephanie tells him quickly.

“Stephanie I just don’t want you to get hurt.” Philip tries to plead with her.

“Why do you care so much if I date him? I mean why does it bother you?” Stephanie asked him finally. She was hoping she’d hear what she wanted to hear, that he still loved her and wanted to be with her. Philip stares back at her and it seems like he is fighting the words.

He finally breaks his silences and scuffs. “That’s not what this is about I don’t care who you date. I just can’t see you get used by him.”

Stephanie bits her lips a little to stop it from quivering. She wanted to scream at him to get him to say it was much more. What good would that really do she told herself, before she could say or do anything she felt EJ’s hand go up and down her arm. She rests her head back against his body trying to calm herself down.

“Is everything alright out here?” EJ asked while looking across at Philip.

“Just fine.” Philip scoffed while walking back into the dance class.

“I was this close to almost losing it.” Stephanie says while holding up her fingers and they were almost an inch apart.

“He’s a stubborn old dog give him time.” EJ reminded her while pulling her in close to him and kissing her on the top of her head.

“Let’s just ditch the rest of this practice.” Stephanie says with a laugh and pulling herself away from him.

EJ laughs. “You dragged me here remember I won’t protest you on that. I think its best that you stop here to get under his skin more. It’s obvious you are with that little spat.”

“I just don’t know if I can take the spats. Just get real and tell me how you feel.”

“It’s hard for stubborn and prideful men to do that.” EJ reminds her. “So lets go.” He said while waving his hand to her to come on. She takes it and they walk back into practice and it seems like practice is already in swing. EJ sees that Melanie smoothly made her way back over to Philip and now murdering the man’s poor left toe again and smiling sheepishly at him.

When she was dancing with Nathan it was like they were dancing on air. So he laughs a little at the games she is playing to flirt with him.

“I really don’t feel like dancing anymore.” Stephanie whispered to EJ. She knew leaving early wasn’t smart either. She only has two months to get him to change his mind and every second matters

“Oh you have to. I’m not dancing with this instructor.” He told her while pulling her close and beginning to dance.

“You don’t want to dance with her huh.” Stephanie teased

“The two love birds are finally back.” The instructor teased. Everyone in the room smiles at them. Stephanie blushes a little and buries her head in EJ’s chest. “Well sorry love birds I was gonna tell you to switch partners again.”

“That’s fine.” Stephanie said with a smile. Stephanie pulls away to go to a perfect stranger. EJ gently guides her to Philip and she looks back at EJ who smiles at her.

“Come on Ms. Layton we can dance again. Philip don’t step on my girls toes.” EJ tells him while grabbing Melanie’s hand.

“I would never do that.” Philip tells him while taking Stephanie’s hand and dancing with her.

“While you were snooping my source called me.” Melanie whispered to EJ. She slips a piece of paper into his jacket. “That is all the info you need.” Melanie tells him.

“How do I know its true?” EJ told her.

“You worked with this man to buy his software to destroy Titan’s files. He’s helping the recover it now. I guess they didn’t need Nick’s extra copy” Melanie tells him. “I sent in your email more documents of proof. Stop him the fuel’s project is stopped again and you keep all your money. You keep Stephanie occupied I keep Philip. So do we have a deal?” Melanie asks him again.

EJ looks across at Stephanie and she smiles at him and waves. His heart sinks a little when she does this. He doesn’t know what to say.

“The offer will be off the table in a minute.” Melanie tells him.

“Deal.” He hissed back at her finally. She smiles form ear to ear knowing she is only a few months away from getting what she wanted.

[Kpatch]

Wow, Melanie is double crossing Philip! Wait until he finds out!
I am so torn as to who Stephanie should be with. That means you are doing a good job of making two couples rootable, BradyDiva. Thanks for the new chapter!

[MrsM]

Holy cow!!! Stephanie is gonna be p.o'd when she finds out about the deal between EJ and Melanie.

[villa281]

I'm glad everyone is enjoying Brady Diva's story it only gets better trust me.

[villa281]

Sept 24, 2011 10:38:24 GMT -5 Kpatch said:

Wow, Melanie is double crossing Philip! Wait until he finds out!
I am so torn as to who Stephanie should be with. That means you are doing a good job of making two couples rootable, BradyDiva. Thanks for the new chapter!

That is how a good love triangle should be.

[fluffysmom]

Great chapter Brady Diva. I love that I am torn as to who to root for in this story. Melanie you are playing with fire. I can't wait to see what happens next.

[bradydiva06]

Thanks for the comments there is another chapter

Love Games-9

Stephanie walked around Salem Place looking at all the shops. They were all decorated in Christmas theme. She loved Christmas time; she loved everything about it. The snow the cheerfulness of the holiday just made her feel excited about it. Her heart sinks a little thinking about how she thought this Christmas she would be spending it with Philip. Their first Christmas together they just started dating. She envisioned so much more this Christmas.

She smiles a little she has been getting mysterious boutiques of flowers since that dance class. Maybe this game was working just like EJ had said.

“Hey there.” Arianna said from behind.

“Hi.” Stephanie greets her friend with a warm hug.

“What were you thinking about?” Arianna said. “You had a smile for days.” She told her while heading over to the Java Café and quickly claiming a table before they were all taken.

“Nothing.” Stephanie tells her quickly while putting her bags in one of the chairs next to her.

“Girls don’t smile over that for nothing, must be a boy.” Arianna said with a smile. “I heard about how you and Mr. Dimera have been painting the town red. It’s a shame I couldn’t’ hear it from my own friend.”

“Well if my friend would pick up her phone once in a while or maybe you have been too busy painting the town red with Brady.” Stephanie insisted while standing up to get lattes for the both of them.

“Nice deflection but seriously.” Arianna started. “I haven’t seen you smile like that in a while. Especially since you and Philip have broken up. If EJ makes you happy then I’m all for it.”

“I think you are the only person that will say that.” Stephanie tells her with a laugh.

“I don’t think he will get the Brady stamp of approval right away. If he treats you right and makes you happy. I’m sure he will, then I’m fine with it. I think its time you got over Philip anyway. He broke your heart and didn’t look back . I’m glad you are moving on.” She said while hugging her friend. It was moments like this that the game the lies got to Stephanie. She hated keeping something like that from her best friend before she knew it she was spilling.

“Lets take a seat I have to tell you something.” Stephanie warns her.

“Tell me what?” Ari asked with a laugh. “You make it seem so serious.”

“You promise not to tell anyone this.”

“Tell anyone what?” Ari asked now getting anxious herself.

“Promise.” Stephanie insisted before spilling the beans.

“You know whatever we say stays between us.” Ari told her quickly. When Stephanie doesn’t start spilling right away, she laughs. “Ok I promise cross my heart and hope to die.” Ari insisted while crossing her heart to let her know this is a serious oath.

“EJ and I aren’t really dating.” Stephanie tells her.

“Then what are you really doing?” Ari said with a laugh. “What are you both scared to use the label?”

“No there is nothing to be scared to put a label on when there is nothing. We are just doing this to get under Philip’s and Sami’s skin. We want them to see we are the best people for them.”

“You don’t need to fake a relationship to do that.” Ari told her. Now she feels a little embarrassed about just bashing on Philip now.

“It’s been working. I see the old sparks. I see his jealousy he’s not over me Ari. I don’t want him to be. I want him back.”

“Then be a big little girl and tell him that.” Ari insists.

“If it were only that simple.” Stephanie starts to explain.

“It is that simple.” Ari whispers to her. “If Philip loves you and he is the one. If you pour your heart out to him. He would never turn you down.”

“I can’t risk him letting me down though. I don’t think my heart would recover.” Stephanie said with a laugh and she blinks back the tears. “So lets just get him jealous enough just for him to say it to me so I can have the revelation and tell him you know what I feel the same.”

“Games with the heart only leads to heartache.” Arianna warns her while now standing up to get the lattes. Stephanie sulks at the table for a moment. What if Arianna is right? This game seems to be working so perfect what if it does go out of control and pull up in her face.

“Something in those pages for me?” she heard EJ ask from behind and now peeking in the top bag.

“If there were something. I would have to return it nosy.” Stephanie said while scolding him and swatting his hand away. “So what are you doing here?”

“Sami and I are meeting here. I have Johnny and Sydney for the day. I think Allie is coming too they are pretty inseparable at that moment. So we are going to see that ice skating, build a snowman, snow angels just plain old have fun.” EJ said with a smile.

“Sounds like a lot of fun.” Stephanie said while looking out the window. She sees Philip and Melanie standing outside. She feels her heart quicken a little bit. She looks back at EJ.

“You’re more then welcome to join us.” EJ told her.

“I just might.” Stephanie informs him.

“Don’t worry. I have my own stash of mistletoe available.” EJ told her while dangling a piece above her head and stealing a quick kiss. “Always ready for the occasion.”

“I should have known a Dimera would have something tricky like that up his sleeve.” Stephanie said with a laugh and kissing him softly again since she saw that Philip was indeed looking in. Arianna comes up with the lattes and sees that she is already pushing her advice to the side. She sees Philip and Melanie walking in and Mel smiles at her while they walk forward. While Stephanie and EJ continue to kiss, Arianna begins to wonder if its just a game now or was it crossing into reality.

Philip clears his throat when they make their way to the table. Stephanie pulls away from EJ and looks up at everyone and smiles sheepishly while wiping her lips.

“Well hello.” EJ said with a smile while leaning against the back of Stephanie chair. He looks behind to see Sami and Rafe walking in with the kids. So he couldn’t be happier about that kiss. It was pretty obvious that Sami was bothered by it.

“Didn’t mean to interrupt love birds.” Melanie said with a wink at the both of them.

“He tricked me with mistletoe.” Stephanie said with a laugh.

“Trick.” EJ said with a shocked tone pretending to be hurt.

“Daddy.” Johnny beamed while running up to him. He picks him up in his arms and it seemed like Ali was right behind him wrapping up his legs.

“EJ are you ready to go?” Ali asked him while tugging his leg.

“Ready I was born ready.” EJ told her while scooping her up with his other arm.

“Hi Johnny and Ali.” Stephanie told them both. They both beamed and yelled hi right back. It was obvious they were anxious about this play date. Sami comes up wheeling Sydney in her stroller.

“Now you guys be good.” Sami tells them.

“We promise mommy.” Johnny told her.

“Stephanie I didn’t know you would be coming to this play date.” Sami told her while turning her attention to EJ.

“Yeah EJ asked me and I thought it would be fun and I love spending time with these guys.” Stephanie told her.

“So when is the next planning meeting for this fundraiser? You know we only have a week and a half left.” Rafe informed her.

“Well with Christmas being in two days.”

“Yeah.” Johnny and Ali beamed it made everyone laugh.

“I didn’t want to do anything right before it. But I was thinking the 27th we could all meet.” Stephanie says to all of them.

“That’s fine with me.” Sami tells her.

“That’s fine with us too.” Philip tells her.

“Alright. I’m going to head to the car and get them all settled in.” EJ tells Stephanie.

“Ok I will be right there.” She tells him while patting him on the back.

Sami just stares at her. It was obvious she wanted to tell her something but she was only refraining because Rafe was there with her. “Just call us for the details then. EJ don’t be late this time.” Sami tells him coldly before walking out with Rafe.

EJ laughs a little while taking the kids and heading to the car. Stephanie starts to gather her things. Philip steps forward and begins to help her much to Melanie’s distain but she quickly covers that with a smile.

“So you guys are having family outings now?” Philip asked her. “Aren’t you guys moving a little fast?” he whispers to her.

“It’s not a big deal. I always spend time with Johnny and Ali.” Stephanie tells him.

“With EJ alone playing the girlfriend role.” Philip reminds her. Hearing him actually say playing sorta unnerved her. Even though she knew he didn’t know it was a rouse it still made her uneasy.

“Why are you concerned about it?” Stephanie asked while grabbing her purse and looking him in the eyes.

“I’m not just saying.” Philip told her quickly and defensively.

“Thanks Philip. I was just coming back for these.” EJ told him while taking the bags out of his hand. Philip looks at his empty hands for a second and then back up at EJ and just nods. “Come on I’m right up front. I don’t want Johnny to run off with the car. I think he has that racing blood in him like us.” EJ said with a laugh.

“I will see you later Ari.” Stephanie said while hugging her quickly.

“Call me tonight.” Ari warned her before letting her go and Stephanie leaves quickly with EJ.

[villa281]

Great to see that you continue to share your fan fic here on the board. More people definatley need to read your writing.

[MrsM]

Love it!!!