Love Games updated complete 9/1/2013 (Read 9,069 times)

[Kpatch]

I'm so glad it was Philip (the first visitor) and not EJ and I'm glad they got carried away by their emotions and expressed their feelings, even if not in words. Darn that Melanie for interrupting their moment.

I'm loving the way this story is going. Great job!

[gapeach]

EJ should be happy that their little 'game' is working so well on Phillip. But it will still be interesting to find out if Stephanie tells him the 'reason' for the visit.

[bradydiva06]

Love Games-14

EJ watched while Stephanie slept on his arm. It was Christmas Morning and he couldn’t sleep. Yesterday Stephanie teased that all he should have in his stocking were lumps of coal. Now he was starting to believe she was right.

He always thought when he agreed to help Melanie, that he would be the one pulling the wool over her eyes, and that he and Stephanie would get what they wanted which was Philip and Sami. Melanie would be stuck out in the cold like she was last time when she got involved with the Fuel’s Project mess.

He wasn’t expecting Melanie to call him frantically last night on his way over here. She shrieked about Philip getting the news that the Fuel Project was a bust again. This made EJ smile from ear to ear. He should know he can’t sneak anything like this past a Dimera. He would have found out about this with the brat’s help or not.

Then she went on and told him her fears. She though that Philip was hooking up with Stephanie right now since he left the mansion over an hour ago and he still wasn’t back.

He felt like someone kicked him in the gut, when she said this. He was surprised by this feeling and pushed it away and refocused. He thought of something to put the kibosh on this and quickly. He told her to relax and to call Philip’s cell, if he didn’t answer call Stephanie on her house phone.

He knew that her voice mail would kick in and she had one set up in her living room and her bedroom. So she would hear it at either place. He coached her to make sure that she played on both of their emotions. If they were doing something it definitely would stop once they heard her voice. Stephanie may hate the twit, but she had morals and wouldn’t continue. He was banking on this.

After hanging up the phone, he pulled up in front of her apartment and sure enough Philip’s car was outside. He knew for sure he was probably trying to put the moves on her on Christmas Eve. He’d play on her emotions since she would be sentimental about the holidays, especially since her family isn’t here. EJ could feel his whole face get flush from the anger building inside him.

He couldn’t explain his anger, this is what they wanted he reminded himself.

He sure didn’t think it would happen so soon. He didn’t think Stephanie and Philip might hook up and reconcile before he is able to get Sami to see that they could be great together.

Plus Philip has the tendency to rush into things full steam ahead, and EJ didn’t want Stephanie to get hurt in the process. EJ had no way of knowing if them getting intimate meant Stephanie and Philip would to get back together either, but he just couldn’t take a chance on that happening either.

He slips his arm from underneath her and moves off the couch. He stops and stares at her for a moment. She looked so peaceful while she was sleeping. Truly beautiful to him. A small smile curved upon her lips and she said. “You could at least get me breakfast before you ogle me in the morning.” She teased while stretching out on the couch.

“I wasn’t ogling.” EJ clears his throat and walks into the kitchen since he was caught staring. He runs his hand through his hair and tells himself to get it together. “I do make some delicious pancakes though.” he joked.

“I’m surprised. I never imagined you would know your way around the kitchen.” Stephanie yawns and stands up from the couch and joins him in the kitchen.

“I had a lot of late nights studying in law school and one of my study partners…” Stephanie rolls her eyes at this comment which doesn’t slide past EJ either who smiles. Stephanie knew by study partner it was probably girlfriend. He continues his story anyway even though he knows Stephanie isn't really listening. “She used to make pancakes and thought me how. I did a few tweaks along the way and it turned out being really good.”

“Now I want to try these pancakes.” Stephanie props herself up on the counter next to him.

“I don’t know if I want to make you some pancakes now. You will probably critique them way to hard now.”

“I knew you were just all talk.” Stephanie said while getting off the counter now. She feels EJ grab her wrist and she turns towards him. Both of their breathing gets staggered from the proximity.

“You should know I’m much more than just talk.” EJ said in a low husky voice that sent all her nerves on edge and made her knees feel weak. She pulls away from him. He smiles back at her. He had told himself to stop playing with fire by flirting with her right now but he couldn't help himself.

“Then cook Dimera.” Stephanie challenged him. She leans against the counter waiting for a response from him.

“This is your Christmas gift then.” EJ warns her. She laughs.

“I didn’t expect much anyway.” Stephanie said with a smile. EJ walks away from her and towards her refrigerator. He opens the door and starts rummaging through it for everything he needs for this breakfast. Stephanie enjoys the view for the time being.

“See I actually did get you something.” EJ said while looking over his shoulder at her.

“Did you?” Stephanie asked him. She was surprised by this revelation. “It isn’t a lump of coal?” she asked. Which made EJ tension up a little since he was just thinking about how he should get that for lying to her. He brushes it off and laughs.

“I should have thought of that.”

“Then what is it?”

“Patience Ms. Johnson.” He told her while grabbing a mixing bowl to whip together the ingredients. Patience is the one thing she doesn’t have and much of and it showed last night. She thinks about how to break to news that he almost messed up.

“I almost had sex with Philip last night.” She used the ripping off the ban-aid approach. Just get it over. EJ puts down the mixing bowl and looks at her.

“I’m glad we weren’t really dating talk about ouch.” EJ said with a laugh, which makes Stephanie laugh a little now too. “But dear I could kind of tell already.” He starts to rummage through her cabinets looking for a frying pan.

“How?” Stephanie asked while getting off the cabinet and walking over to the cabinet next to the sink where she keeps most of her cooking essentials. Which isn’t much because she doesn’t cook much. She hands him the frying pan and waits for his answer. He thinks to himself maybe he should be honest also and try the ban-aid approach with her too. If he was honest he didn’t know how honest he could be with her.

“Well I came in here you were a little hot and flush and I know A Wonderful Life didn’t do that.” He teased. “I listened to my messages this morning and Ms. Layton was wondering if we were together.” Honesty wasn’t the best policy for him today. He gave her a half truth.

“She called you.” Stephanie said. She was clearly amazed by this.

“Yeah she wanted to know if we were together and wished us a Merry Christmas.” EJ said while pouring the batter into a hot pan. “I wasn’t born yesterday a call like that means she is trying to find out where your whereabouts are because she doesn’t know where the future groom’s whereabouts are.” EJ turns and winks at her which only makes Stephanie look away and blush.

“Gosh how embarrassing. I don’t know what came over me last night.” Stephanie said while sitting down back on the counter.

“The heart has its own mind at times.” EJ said while staring at her. He could feel his pulse quicken and the blood rushing through him when she returned that stare. He clears his throat and says “Ok I need a plate looks like the first one is done.”

“On it.” Stephanie gets off the counter and goes to a cabinet above the sink and grabs two plates. She comes over and extends one plate out and he flips the pancake on to the plate with his spatula.

“Smells yummy.” She commented, she holds the plate up to her nose and takes in the smell.

“They are yummy.” EJ said while pouring more batter into the pan.

“Do you think I messed things up for us last night?” Stephanie asked hesitantly.

“No, not at all. You just made him want you more now.” EJ notices the huge smile that plasters on Stephanie face after that comment. He smiles a little himself since she wanted this so badly.

“You know you’re the first boyfriend that has ever cooked for me.” Stephanie places the plate down on the counter and EJ turns to look at her. “I mean fake of course.”

“Really?” He questioned.

“Really, so good job fake boyfriend.” Stephanie slaps him on the butt and walks away to grab the syrup. I know that was her way of joking and easing the tense but to him it only built it more.

“Have you cooked for any of your boyfriends?” He asked. She laughs as a response so that was an obvious no.

“I never really have the time to cook.” Stephanie pointed out.

“Well I expect the favor to be returned fake girlfriend.” EJ said while taking the plates over to the table.

“You might get a nice bowl of cereal for breakfast or a nice turkey sandwich one day.” Stephanie jokes and EJ laughs. She pours the syrup on her pancakes and hands him the bottle so he could do the same. She takes her first bite and looks up at him with a shocked look. “These are actually pretty darn good.” She said while getting another fork full.

“I told you that is the only thing I have mastered so far in the kitchen.” EJ teased while taking a bite himself now.

“Start mastering other things at this level.” Stephanie smiles at him while taking another bite of her food. “Ok so are you going to keep me in suspense over this gift.”

“No, impatient one.” He teased while standing up and grabbing his coat. He digs in his pocket and grabs out a small grey jewelry box. Stephanie drops her fork and looks up at him surprised. She never expected the gift would be jewelry.

“EJ I can’t accept that.” She said quickly without even opening.

“Relax.” He said while sitting back down and handing her the box. “It’s the best cubic zirconia money can buy.” He winks at her and she takes the box from him now, knowing that he didn’t buy her real jewelry. She opens the box and smiles.

“I love it.” Stephanie said with her smile while her eyes glistened. EJ stands up to help her put it on. She moves her hair to one side and the smell of her sweet lilac perfume seemed to be more pronounced to his senses. He puts on the silver necklace that had a race car charm with a stud in the center of the car charm on. He thought it would be a great gift from him since it emphasized their past together. After he secures the necklace he leaves his hands on her shoulder for a second and he felt the blood rushing through his body. Stephanie turns to look him in the eyes and smiles at him which just makes the feeling intensify. “I feel bad I didn’t get you anything.”

“Don’t worry. I bought myself many lavish gifts that are from you. You know for a woman to keep a man like me they have to spoil me if this were real.” He joked while creating the distance again and sitting on the other side of the table.

“I’m going to go and check this out. I will definitely wear this at the planning meet.” Stephanie said with a smile before walking to the bathroom.

EJ smiles as she walks away and he hears her phone start to ring. “Steph your phone is ringing.” He called after her she didn’t respond. He picks up her phone to see it is Philip calling. He must have stolen a moment away this Christmas Morning he thought. EJ knew he shouldn’t do this but he did it anyway he answered. “Hello.” He said into the phone. He was greeted by silence and a quick hang up from Philip. He knew that Philip’s blood was probably boiling knowing that he was over here right now on Christmas morning. He deletes his number from the recent calls list and puts her phone down just as Stephanie was walking back in the room.

“What did you say? I couldn’t hear you in there” Stephanie asked.

“Nothing, the necklace looks great on you.” EJ said with a smile.

“Thanks.” She said while crossing the room and giving him a hug.

“I better head out. I’m supposed to get the kids at noon and we will be opening presents probably as soon as they walk into the door.” He laughs.

“Yeah of course. Thanks for breakfast.” EJ slips his coat on and walks to the door. Stephanie follows him and gives him a quick kiss on the cheek before closing the door. He leans against the door and knows that stocking is probably overflowing with coal now. He doesn't know what has come over him lately but he had to get his head back in the game completely. He would do that at their meeting for the event this week.

[villa281]

Thanks for updating Brady Diva, I am really enjoying reading this story all over again. I hope we get an update at the Phinie board soon.

[MrsM]

Uh oh. EJ is losing his focus.

[Kpatch]

Ooh, I like this chapter. EJ is playing a game within a game within a game, and it's backfiring on him as he's developing real feelings for Stephanie. I can't wait to find out what Philip has to say about EJ being there Christmas morning, and I know he'll make some kind of snide remark next time he sees Stephanie. The race car pendant was a nice touch.

Thanks for the chapter BD!

[fluffysmom]

I really enjoyed the chapter. EJ gave Stephanie the perfect gift. Love that he answered her phone when Philip called. I can hardly wait to read more.

[gapeach]

EJ has me wondering if maybe that isn't CZ in the charm!!

[bradydiva06]

I know its been a while since I posted but I will be putting the last chapters of this story up this week. So here are 4 new chapters.

Love Games-15

Philip leans against the bar and stares at EJ talking with Stephanie. He takes another sip of his scotch. He needed to get rid of the memory of hearing EJ’s voice on Stephanie phone this Christmas Day. He knew he didn’t have a right to be angry about it but he couldn’t help how he felt.

“Bartender.” Philip called. He turned and looked at him. Philip puts his glass on the bar to let him know he needs another one. The bartender nods his head to let him know he’ll be right over.

“You should lay off of those.” Brady warned him.

“How about a late Christmas gift and spare me the lecture on this.” Philip said while looking down the bar at the bartender.

“You leave dinner on Christmas Eve and you’re gone for hours. Now you have a pissy attitude and drinking heavily what is going on?’ Brady asked him quietly but firmly. Philip rolls his eyes it was obvious he wasn’t going to let it go till he found out what was bothering him.

“Nothing.” Philip insisted while running his hand over his face. He couldn’t hide the anger that was forming in his body when he saw Dimera’s hand resting dangerously close to Stephanie’s butt. Brady’s eyes follow his and now he knows what has him in this mood.

“You are threading in dangerous waters.” Brady warned him.

“What?” Philip asked with a perplexed look.

Brady shakes his head and laughs. “You know exactly what I mean. You’re engaged man. It looks like she is moving on too. Even if it is with EJ of all people.” He shrugs his shoulders and makes a face. He still can’t believe someone like Stephanie would want to be involved with EJ.

“You don’t know what you’re talking about.” Philip looks down at the bartender again. He’s starting to get annoyed by how long it is taking to get a refill. He didn’t want to stand up here any longer. The bartender must have sensed it since he made his way over right after picking up his tip form the last guest.

“I do. I saw the look in your eyes. It would explain a lot of things that have been happening.”

“Like what?” Philip asked him. He wanted to hear what he had to say now. He wanted to know if he was becoming so transparent with his feelings that people around him were noticing.

“Like when we all went ice skating. I went to talk to you guys and joke around but you could practically cut the sexual tension.” Philip laughs him off but Brady continues with points. “At the Christmas story reading the look you guys gave each other. You could tell that something was going on. If you still have feelings for her you need to be honest with Mel.”

“I’m always going to have feelings for her. We were engaged if you haven’t forgotten. That love just doesn’t go away.” Philip said angrily.

“I know that.” Brady said softly. He knew better than anyone that was true. Things between Chloe and him might not have worked out but he would always love her. He was in love with Ari with all his heart right now and he doesn’t know if that is the case for Philip and Melanie. “There is a difference between loving someone and being in love with somebody. A part of me will love my exes always but I’m not in love with them. Philip I think you are still in love with Stephanie.”

“It doesn’t matter if I were Brady. She made it pretty clear that she doesn’t love who I am. I can’t change who I am for her.” The words burned coming out of his mouth, but they were true. They were two very different people.

“I don’t think she ever wanted that Philip. I think she just wanted you to be your own man.” Brady said. “I’m not going to press anymore though. I know you. What I say won’t make a difference you will have to see it on your own time. Just don’t hurt Melanie in the process. Figure out what you really want.” Brady walks away from him now since Ari has finally come down ready for their date. Melanie walks over to the bar now and smiles at him.

“It seemed like you guys were having a serious conversation.” Melanie loops her arms around his neck and kisses him softly.

“It was just talk about business.” Philip said dryly. “Are they ready to sit down and start planning?”

“Yes Rafe just got here. That’s why I’m over here, to get you” Melanie said in a cutesy flirty voice. She kisses him again and takes his hand and starts to lead him to the table. He sits down at the table and he’s sitting across Stephanie. It was the first time that he has seen her since the kiss. She wouldn’t make any eye contact with him right now. He was glad at the moment because if she did look at him he didn’t think he could fight his desire to kiss her again.

He wanted to say something to her. He wanted to arrange so they could talk later alone. He didn’t know how to bring it up. EJ hasn’t left her alone since they walked in here. EJ puts his arm around Stephanie and runs his hand up and down her arm and kisses her on the cheek. Philip looks down at his drink and runs his finger around the rim of the glass and clinched his teeth. He tells himself to loosen up but all he wanted to do was tell EJ to take his hand off her.

“How was everyone’s Christmas?’ Rafe asked while looking across the table at everyone. The table was still quiet after the question. He looks around awkwardly seeing something was going on at the table that he wasn’t aware of.

“Things were great for me. I had a breakfast with this wonderful lady.” EJ said while holding Stephanie close. “Then I just spent some time with the kids and had fun playing with them with their gifts.”

“Did you buy them the whole toy store?” Sami joked. She felt like the gifts that she and Rafe bought were now going to just collect dust now after they saw EJ’s toys.

“I may have gotten a little carried away.” EJ admitted.

“A little.” Sami laughs and takes a sip of her drink.

“I’m sure they appreciate everyone’s gifts.” Stephanie said.

“How was yours Philip?” EJ asked him. It seemed like he stressed every single syllable to get under his skin.

“It was fine.” Philip said quickly.

“Just fine, did you do anything? Call anybody catch up with old friends.” He was sure that EJ knew that he called Stephanie on Christmas Day. He was also sure that tonight he was going to keep dropping little hints throughout the night too.

“It was great. I think Christmas Eve was better.” Philip said with a smile which made Stephanie blush.

“Let’s get down to business.” Stephanie interjected.

“Let’s.” EJ said while holding her close again.

“We only have a few more days of planning left before the big day.” Stephanie said while opening her notebook and picking up her pen. “Sami and Rafe have you thought of any games to play or activities?”

“Well we thought of having someone do face painting, and we could have someone make balloon animals.” Sami suggested. “Here are some of the numbers for you.” Sami pulls out some papers she had in her notebook and hands them to Stephanie.

EJ leans over and whispers in her ear. “How original?” Stephanie smiles and elbows him on the side.

“Behave.” She whispers to him. He just returns the smiles.

“I’d like to add a few ideas that maybe can tie all this in together. Let’s have the child’s area as a Parisian circus theme, we could have them make their own marionettes, and perform magic tricks and let them do create and do their own things. One big cool event like laser tag or a bounce house.”

“Wow, it sounds great.” Sami said. She was pretty shocked by his ideas.

“That might work.” Rafe said while crossing his arms over his chest.

“I was thinking about going to some party design stores to pick up decorations tomorrow afternoon.” Stephanie said.

“Well since Philip and I joined you in that group we can come too.” Melanie suggested. “Then EJ, Sami, and Rafe can finalize the plans for the kids. We can meet up one more time then help with the execution of everything.”

“Ok.” Stephanie said softly. She looks over at EJ hoping he’d come to pick up the decorations too. She didn’t know if she could go alone. He looks at her letting her know he would and he’d expect her to return the favor.

“Well it looks like we have everything in order. We’re going to leave and try to get the kids all ready for bed.” Sami said while standing from her chair. Rafe stands up too and they both say their goodbyes. “I’ll call you later EJ about meeting up just to finalize everything.”

“I can hardly wait.” He said with a smirk.

“So what time do you want to meet tomorrow?” Melanie asked anxiously.

“I can meet anytime after 5.” EJ interjected.

“I didn’t know you were invited Dimera.” Philip said.

“I’m always invited.”

“5 works for me.” Stephanie chose to ignore them both and just answer Melanie’s question.

“It should work for us too.” Melanie said with a smile. “Maybe we can squeeze another dance class in.”

“Sure that sounds like fun.” EJ said with a smile. Stephanie looks at him, this wasn’t her idea of fun.

“Great well we’ll see you guys tomorrow around 5 then.” Melanie said while taking Philip’s hand and heading out the pub together. Philip looks back over his shoulder at Stephanie and she couldn’t return the stare right now. She might crack right now she had to pretend like nothing happened between them even though she knew she couldn’t do that for now.

“Did you have to throw jabs about what he was doing on the holidays?” Stephanie asked him now that they were finally alone.

“I wanted to flaunt in his face that I know that we are that solid we don’t keep anything from each other.” Stephanie rolls her eyes while gathering her things. “Little jabs like this will keep him up at night and the kisses won’t let him sleep a wink.” EJ said while kissing her softly on the lips.

“He’s not here.” Stephanie said with a laugh.

“Sure he is.” EJ said while continuing to kiss her softly on the lips. “Glance over your shoulder.” EJ whispered in her ear. Stephanie rests her head against his chest then pulls away too glance over her shoulder. Sure enough Philip was still in the pub. It looks like Melanie stopped to talk to one of the other nurses in her study program right at the doors so they were still there. She turns and looks at EJ in disbelief. “See.” He teased.

“Ok you’re right.” Stephanie said with a laugh.

“That’s why I have the game face at all times.” EJ said with a smile.

“I have to go.”

“Stay and have dinner with me.” EJ suggested. He didn’t want the night to end so quickly.

“Dinner?” Stephanie asked him with a raised eyebrow.

“Yes dinner.” EJ asked one more time. Stephanie looks over her shoulder to see that Melanie and Philip are still there talking to the nursing student. Melanie is showing off the huge rock and gushing about the upcoming wedding, while Philip stared at her intently.

“Sure.” Stephanie said while turning back to face EJ. He kisses her again and pulls her chair out so she can sit down. He crosses the table and takes a seat now too and smiles at her. She didn’t have to look over her shoulder she could feel Philip’s eyes on her now. She was hoping that this dinner and these last few moves will seal the deal and he will finally see they are meant for each other.
Love Games 16-

Philip stood by the door and watched while EJ gives Stephanie a quick kiss and pulls out her chair for her. He could feel his face getting flush with anger. He tried to hide the growing anger inside him, by turning and smiling at Melanie and her friend
. He tried to act like he was involved in their conversation by laughing when they did but even he could tell that Melanie nor Nadine were buying it. Right now he didn’t give a damn. He was too invested in what was happening across the pub.

It was hard to try and fake being happy right now because every touch or stare EJ made with Stephanie had his blood boiling. No matter how many times Philip warned Stephanie she insisted on continuing this relationship with EJ.

He knew that EJ was up to something and it definitely wasn’t going to end up well. He just can’t seem to get Stephanie believe that he’s up to no good. Stephanie should know better than anyone what a Dimera is capable of. Philip takes a sip from his drink and he made up his mind that he was going to find out what EJ was up to and fast.

“Baby.” Melanie said and she tugs his arms. He turns his head to her and smiles sheepishly.

“I’m sorry I was lost in thought.” Philip said while breaking his gaze from Stephanie and EJ temporarily.

“I can tell.” She said while forcing up a smile. “How about we stay here and eat dinner so I can catch up with Nadine.” Melanie said firmly. Philip nods his head to confirm he was ok with that.

“Sure.” Philip said while following the two girls to a table on the other side of the pub. Philip could still see what was going on between Stephanie and EJ since they were seated closer to the bar. They take a seat and his heart stills from her infectious laugh. He hasn’t heard her laugh this heartedly since they were together. It seemed like she was laughing a lot tonight, with every laugh she let out it felt like she was getting a tighter vice grip on his heart.

He tried to ignore the fact that he wasn’t the one making her laugh like this. The person that was making her laugh he hated with a passion.

“Babe.” Melanie said while grabbing his hand. He jerks it back and Melanie gives him a confused look. He reaches across the table and squeezes her hand.

“I’m sorry what’s up?” he said while trying to give her his undivided attention for the moment.

“The waitress was waiting forever for your order.” Nadine said with a stifled laugh. “We just told her to give us a moment.

“Are you okay?” Melanie said quickly.

“I’m fine.” Philip said while rubbing his hand through his hair. He forces up another smile hoping that she wouldn’t ask him the same question. She bites her lip and turns her attention back on her friend. He could tell she wasn’t pressing because she was there. It seemed lately he couldn’t do anything right they were fighting all the time and she was constantly asking him what was wrong. He really couldn’t tell her that he felt something was off between Stephanie and EJ. He couldn’t tell her that he felt EJ was playing games with his ex right now. That would just get them into another argument.

He takes another sip from his drink and this time when the waitress comes back he is prepared to order. He smiles when he sees them laugh out of the corner of his eyes and he even joins in the conversation a little more to show he is invested but he still had his eye on them. He couldn’t shake this feeling and he was going to prove he was right.

“You choose a good time to decide to stay and have dinner.” Stephanie said while glancing over her shoulder at Philip and Melanie. “He hasn’t stopped looking at us since he sat down.

“Yes I know. You have to stop looking too.” EJ told her while taking her hands and bringing them to his lips and giving her hands a soft kiss. His penetrating stare sent a sensuous feeling down her spine. She felt almost trapped in his gaze. “Good job so far.” He said while flashing that smile that she was sure got him through law school. That smile always got her too but she would never admit it and she always tried her best to hide it. She leans across the table and gives him a quick kiss on the lips. “Even better job.” EJ smirks at her and leans forward before whispering. “A little tongue would have given you a phenomenal from me. I don’t give those out often either.”

Stephanie shakes her head and leans back in her seat. “You always know what to say to make a woman feel better about herself.”

“I try.” EJ grabs her hand and pulls it closer to him. She wasn’t expecting the sensations to grow. She tells herself to relax while she tries to coolly look him in the eyes like what he was doing has no effect on her. “Every touch, every stare he gets redder. But enough about Kiriakis. We can’t always talk about how the game is working in front of him. It’s just a way to get caught. Plus we have to look more natural.”

“What’s natural for me is to be fighting with you.” Stephanie said with a laugh.

“I think we are past that. I feel like we are acting like we did when we were on the circuit together.” EJ said while rubbing her hand and trying to make Stephanie make eye contact with him, right now she was just staring at her drink. “You really hate to talk about your racing past why.”

“Some things are meant to stay in the past.” Stephanie said while finally looking up at him.

“I remember having so much fun with that Stephanie. You were so carefree and loved life.”

“And now how do you see me?” Stephanie asked

“ I still see that Stephanie you are just suppressing it for some reason.” EJ said. EJ waited for some witty comment back but nothing from her. It was like she silently acknowledged it. He took it as a small win but went right back into his point about racing. “I think you should drive us home tonight and walk on the wild side maybe go over the speed limit instead of right at it.”

“Slow and steady wins the race.” Stephanie teased while sticking her tongue out at him playfully. He has made his share of jokes about her driving lately and she tried to ignore it. Even today he said he was sure her grandmother drove better than her.

“I want to know what race the slow and steady have won. None in my book.” EJ said with a laugh

“We should get going though. We have a long day ahead of us tomorrow.” Stephanie reminded him. They would be pulling double duty half the day with Sami and Rafe the other half with Melanie and Philip, while they tried to get the last little arrangements of the party together.

“You sure? I thought we should have sex on this table right now to get a rise out of Kiriakis.” EJ teased.

“Quit it.” Stephanie warned while standing up from the table. EJ walks around the table and helps Stephanie put her coat on. He kisses her on the cheek before saying. “It could be fun.” She rolls her eyes. “Let’s go Dimera.” She takes his hand and leads him to the door. She glances back at Philip and Melanie before walking out. She locks eyes with him for a moment too. His stare was just as penetrating as EJ’s if not more which causes her breath to be caught in her throat at the moment. She feels EJ slightly tug her arm which pulls her out from his stare and she continues to follow behind EJ.

“Philip we are going to head to the rest room and then we can go.” Melanie tells Philip before standing up and following Nadine to the back.

Philip pulls out his phone and calls the head of security Nicholas. “Hello, I want you to follow every move EJ Dimera makes. I mean every move and report back to me on it. Only me.”

“Is something wrong sir?” Nicholas asked him. His team has always kept a little loose watch on EJ even after the truce agreement. Victor was from the school of keeping your friends close but your enemies closer.

“Nothing is wrong just do this and report back to me.” Philip said before hanging up his phone. He was going to find out what EJ was up to and put a stop to it before Stephanie gets hurt in the process.

Love Games-17

EJ pulls up in front of Stephanie’s apartment and notices that Philip’s goons were following him a little closer today than they have been the past few months. He smiles last night must have really gotten a rise out of Kiriakis since his team has been on him all day.

With his team following so close it has forced him to be a good boy and definitely not meet up with Melanie today as planned. That was a good thing for him. He didn’t feel like going to lunch with her to have her worry about everything that happened the night before or her trying to push him to do what she wanted. Acting like she had a hold over him.

He had gotten what he needed from Melanie so he really didn’t want anything else to do with her. He knew that she wasn’t going to go away so easily and she would try to hold their little deal over his head. He laughs just thinking how easy it would be to get out of it and how’d she end up with nothing.

EJ hurries to the door once he sees one of Stephanie’s neighbors coming out. He sneaks past and heads up stairs to her apartment. He looks down at his watch and sees they got about 15 minutes to make it to the other side of town to the Chez Rouge to meet with Sami and Rafe. It would finally be his turn to get under Sami’s skin again. He could tell on Christmas Eve that his relationship with Stephanie was really getting to her.

EJ knocks on the door and Stephanie opens the door immediately. He felt his breath get caught when he looked at her. He was expecting to see her like this. She was wearing a red sundress that fit her body like a glove. Her hair was down and flowing with soft curls and she was wearing a red lipstick as red as her dress that drew attention to her luscious lips. He fully expected to see her in one of her work outfits but Stephanie was obviously stepping up her game since it was getting closer to D-day for her.

“Well hello.” EJ said with a smile. “You are going to give Philip a heart attack.”

Stephanie smiles and picks up her purse. She picks up a white cardigan that she had on her chair too and turns to face him. EJ steps forward and tucks a stray curl of hers behind her ear. Stephanie smiles at him and he returns the smile. He takes the cardigan from her and tosses it back on the couch.

“Hey.” She said with a pout.

“You’ll look like a librarian if you cover yourself with this.” EJ said. She looks at the cardigan and then back at him. She hates to admit that he is right but he was. She couldn’t afford to look like a librarian tonight. They were getting closer and closer to New Year’s Eve and the big party. This was her last chance to get Philip to see that she was the one for him.

“What are we doing first?” Stephanie asked him. EJ laughs because it has been hard trying to keep up with this schedule.

“We are meeting Sami and Rafe at Chez Rouge to finalize the details for the games and events for the fundraiser. Then we are meeting Melanie and Philip at the decoration shop so you can make the final orders and another dance class, a full night.”

“You can say that again.”

EJ opens the door and Stephanie heads out. She notices he was moving faster today probably because the game was about him today. They made it to Chez Rouge in no time. He was a true gentleman as soon as they pulled up. He opened every door for her. Pulled out her chair and kept his attention on just her, even when Sami and Rafe walked into the room.

She knew he had to know they were here, but he didn’t flinch. He continued to look into her eyes and stroke her hand like she was the only woman in the room. His act was starting to unnerve her. She pulls her hand away and tilts her head toward Sami and Rafe. EJ looks up. “Oh hey you two.” He said while flashing them a quick smile and then turning his attention back to Stephanie. “You caught me getting mesmerized by this smile.”

Stephanie blushes and looks away from him. She catches Sami frowning before she puts up a forced smile when they make eye contact. Sami looks away from them and now to Rafe who pulls out her chair for her and she sits down. She continues to gaze away from them. She was obviously upset about seeing the two of them together.

The waitress comes over right away when they are seated.

“Can I get you something to drink?” She beamed.

“A long island.” Sami said quickly.

“A beer for me.” Rafe said.

“You two?” The waitress asked Stephanie and EJ.

“Water for me.” EJ said.

“The same.” Stephanie said with a smile.

“You are even ordering the same now. Oh joy.” Sami said with a roll of her eyes.

“Samantha.” Rafe warned her. She ignores this and continues on.

“We get that you two are in a relationship. You don’t have to flaunt it. Makes me believe something else is going on.” Sami said while folding her arms across her chest. She was obviously glad to unload these thoughts it was obvious that it had been on her mind.

“I didn’t know both of us wanting water would be such a big deal.” Stephanie said with a laugh. “But we are not flaunting anything. We are just enjoying each other’s company.” Stephanie said while reaching across the table and grabbing EJ’s hand. “What has you so relied up about us?” Stephanie questioned her. EJ sits back in his seat and smiles this couldn’t have played out any better than he hoped.

“Nothing.” Sami said quickly. “It just feels a little over the top and sudden.” Sami said. “We got sidetracked from what we are supposed to be doing here anyway.” Sami said while looking around for the waiter and her drink. She mutters about time under her breathe when she arrives with them. Stephanie could tell Sami wanted to say more but she left it at that for now.

“Yes we are here to discuss the event for the fundraiser.” Stephanie said.

“Well I talked to a few guys on the force and they have agreed to help with the arts and crafts.” Rafe said.

“Sounds like fun.” EJ added in a mocking tone. Stephanie gives him a warning look not to engage Rafe tonight. That would not help in his efforts it would just help him look bad. But he couldn’t resist either just like Sami and continues talking. “What arts and crafts will the Salem PD be doing?”

Rafe rolls his eyes before starting. “Well a few of us will do some face painting and make some balloon animals..”

“So you guys are finally doing your real job working as clowns.” EJ said with a laugh. Stephanie elbows him slightly for the joke and gives him another warning look. He looks back at her like who me, and she just makes her intensify the look.

“Very funny EJ.” Rafe retorted while taking a sip from his beer.

“I like that and I’m grateful that the Salem PD will be helping.” Stephanie said.

“Well Dimera Enterprises contacted a few people and we thought we can have an area where the kids can make marionettes.”

“That sounds like fun.” Stephanie said with a smile.

“We also decided a bounce house would be fun.”

“A bounce house for sick kids..” Rafe said with a raised eyebrow. “Lots of fun.”

“Not all the children that will be there will be sick.” EJ noted.

“I like all the ideas.” Stephanie said trying to smooth the boys tempers.

“I’m sure you do.” Sami said while taking a sip of her drink. Stephanie looks at her after this comment. It seemed like she wasn’t trying to stop the baiting between the two of them at all. She just wanted the back and forth banter between them. She was loving the attention of the two of them fighting over her. Stephanie looks over at EJ and wanted him to just see through this, because to her she was just milking the attention and she would just string EJ along so she could have two men at her feet constantly.

Rafe’s phone rings and he pulls it out to look at it. “Excuse me I have to take this.” He said while standing up. He gives Sami a quick kiss and looks over at EJ before walking away. It was like he was marking his territory before leaving.

“I think we have enough for events for the kids.” Sami stated. “I think this event will be great”

“I sure hope so.” Stephanie said with a sigh. This was the first major event she would be doing for the hospital. She needed it to go successfully.

“I know so.” EJ said. He gives her a quick kiss on the lips and then smiles at her.

“I’m going to go to the ladies room. I will be right back.” Stephanie said with a smile. She thought she would give EJ a little alone time with Sami. He smiles at her and nods at her giving her a little nonverbal thank you for this.

Sami stares at him trying to assess his next move because she knew he was up to something she just couldn’t but her finger on it. EJ smiles at her and she gets mad when she feels her stomach knot up and tingling sensation shoot up her spine. No matter how much she tries to suppress the feeling it always happens. She takes another sip from her drink and then puts it down prepared to speak her mind to him right now. She was going to be vicious enough to make sure he stayed away from Stephanie and her for her own good.



Stephanie looks over at EJ he was extremely quiet while he drove to the decorations shop. Usually he would chat about anything or everything or make up a game plan on the ride over. Today he just stared at the road vacantly. He had been quiet like this ever since his talk alone with Sami. She thought leaving them alone would be a good thing, and that she would hear about this good thing all the way to the decoration shop but nothing.

“You okay?” Stephanie asked finally breaking the silence.

“Just peachy.” He said while continuing to look forward.

“What happened when you too were alone?” Stephanie asked him. He said nothing but she kept looking she was going to get an answer. “EJ-“

“Sami was her usual self.” He finally said. Since he knew she was going to keep pressing till he talked. He sighed and continued. “She questioned our relationship, threw some big stone to get under my skin.”

“So I guess it worked.” Stephanie assessed.

“No, I’m just thinking of the next move to get her to warm up a little bit.” EJ said with a smile. Stephanie could tell it was a forced smile and whatever she said had really gotten to him but she wasn’t going to press him. “Well we are here my dear.” He said while pulling into a spot. “I’m a 100% focused since we only have a few days till D-day.”

EJ gets out of the car and heads to the other side of the car to help her out. He opens the door and extends his hand to her. Stephanie takes it and when he helps her out they end up being incredibly close to each other. Neither move to create space either. She finally breaks the silence.

“Whatever Sami said back there, I don’t agree with her. You can be a great guy when you want to be.” Stephanie said with a smile and she straightens his tie for him. He smiles back at her. He takes his hands and cups her face and kisses her softly on the lips. He pushes her against the car and deepens the kiss. Which takes her by surprise at first but she quickly warms up to the kiss.

“Are you guys coming in already?” Melanie asked from the door. “We have to get to selecting the decorations so we can make dance practice on time.” She reminds them while tabbing her wrist. EJ pulls away from Stephanie and smiles at her. He takes her hand and they start to walk in together before Melanie could question them or before she could press him more about what happened with Sami. He walks past Philip and smiles. He doesn’t look pleased at all by this kiss. He pulls Stephanie close to his body again and gives her another quick kiss to rile up Kiriakis even more.

Love Games

Stephanie applies her red lipstick to her lips. Her hand was trembling so it was a hard task to do. Today was the day. The New Year’s Eve ball was finally here, and today would be the day that she finally told Philip how she felt and that she wanted him back.

The last few days leading up to this she had seen signs, that he was still interested and missed her. That he missed them being a couple.

Then there days that she hadn’t felt it. So it made her more confused than ever. Her nerves were all over the place because all her cards would be left on the table tonight. It would kill her if he didn’t feel the same, but then again she would finally know. There would be no what if’s, she would know where they stood.

She knew that she had to tell him before he married Melanie. She couldn’t push this off any longer tonight would be the night.

Stephanie looks at her watch and see that it is 6:30pm so EJ would be here in a half and hour. She needed to get moving or she would be late to her own event. She realized tonight would also be the last night she would be playing the game with EJ. She had to admit she would sort of miss him around. Playing this game with him she had spent most of her time with him the last few weeks. It would be different to not have him around.

Stephanie slips on her dress and puts on some perfume it was Philip’s favorite. He had told her this on several different occasions. She needed to pull out all stops tonight. This was it she reminded herself while she looked in the mirror.

She wore a blue colored cocktail the top of the dress was sequined and the bottom of her dress flowed to her feet. She wore her hair up in a simple updo. She wanted to get his attention and keep his attention tonight.

Stephanie hears a knock on her door. She looks down at her clock. It’s EJ and he is right on time. She makes her way to the door and sure enough it was EJ. He leaned against the doorframe and smiled at her lazily. It made her heart skip a beat the way he was looking at her.

“Hey.” She said softly.

“Hey yourself.” EJ said while stepping into her apartment. He places a quick kiss on her lips. “You ready for tonight.”

“Absolutely.” Stephanie said with a smile. “Did I sound as nervous as I feel?” She said with a quick laugh.

“No.” EJ said while walking over to her and massaging her shoulders. “Just relax.” He whispered in her ear. “Philip would be a complete fool to turn you down. Especially in that dress.” She felt her breathe catch after his words. She turns to face him and creates distance between the two of them.

“Thanks EJ.” Stephanie turns to grab her purse and her shawl. “I’m ready so we can head out. Tonight, we should both be leaving the ball happy.” Stephanie said with a smile.

“Yes we should.” EJ said while holding the door open for her.

Stephanie enters the banquet hall and was pleased to see her vision for tonight’s ball had fallen into place perfectly. The decorations looked great and the place truly looked like a Parisian night.

She walks past the children that are already having fun at the sponsored booths. She smiles at them and looks at EJ and smiles. “I guess you’re marionettes are a hit.” She said when she sees kids already playing with some they made.

“I’m glad to see that they like them.”

Stephanie scans the room looking for Philip. She hasn’t seen him yet. She pushes down her anxiety and nervous about tonight and continues to greet the guest that were already her while EJ checked in their coats at the coat check.

Stephanie didn’t have to turn to know Philip was in the room. She could feel his presence and her body reacted from it. She could feel her heartbeat quicken and a tingling sensation all over her body. She turns to the door and when their eyes connect it was like no one else was in the room. She felt like she couldn’t breathe seeing him right now.

He stood at the door confidently and flashed her one of his infamous dimpled smiles. He looked like a Greek Adonis with is tux and his blonde hair slicked back. He starts to walk towards her and she felt her heart beat quicken with each step he took towards her.

Looking into his eyes told her everything was going to be ok tonight. That this was right, and that she had to tell him how she felt.

“Hey, Steph.” He said while pushing one of the stray hairs back behind her ear. She felt like her skin was on fire from his touch. She moved her head in to welcome the touch more. “Looks like everything turned out great tonight.” He said while rubbing his thumb across her cheek. He pulls his had down abruptly realizing they were in room full of people. What he was doing right now was dangerous.

“Yes so far.” Stephanie finally managed to say and she clears her throat and tries to regain her senses. They were all over the place standing so close to him. She was ready to blurt out how she felt right now but she wanted to be alone so there would be no interruptions.

“Stephanie what a great party.” Melanie exclaimed while coming up to hug her.
`
“Thanks.” Stephanie said. The hug catches her off guard so she is a little off place receiving it. She was still wondering where she had come from. It was like a blur since it all happened so quickly.

“We will get to do a little practice tonight on the dance floor for the big day.” Melanie said while linking her arm with Philip. She kisses him on the cheek and runs her hand up and down his arm. Stephanie forces a smile up but her eyes were focused on how Melanie was trying to press the closeness between them. She tries to not stare or show any emotion but she could tell she was failing.

Stephanie feels EJ come behind her and puts a protective hand on the small of her back and draws her close to him. She breathes a sigh of relief, she was thankful that he came up right now. She didn’t feel as awkward now with Philip and Melanie.

“I hope you save a few dances for me on your dance card.” EJ whispers in Stephanie ear then kisses her on the top of her head.

“Maybe one or two.” Stephanie whispers back and smiles at him. She feels EJ tense up and she follows his eyes to see that Sami and Rafe entered the room. He has been different since his talk with Sami. He doesn’t even look at Sami the same. She is wondering what was said between them. “You ok?” Stephanie asked.

“Of course.” He said with a smile. Stephanie wasn’t buying it though.

“Stephanie, this ball is amazing:” Sara said. Sarah is one of the nurses at Salem University. “Maxine wants to talk to you and Melanie to come over. They are taking a group picture of the nurses for this ball. We feel like you are an honorary nurse at times so you have to come too Steph.” She said with a laugh. She takes their hands and marched in the other direction before either girl could say yes or no.

EJ and Philip stood in awkward silence for a moment. EJ could tell that Philip’s mind was racing that he was so angry standing here with him. Probably thinking about what was going to happen tonight between EJ and Stephanie. This makes EJ smile from ear to ear.

“What are you smiling about Dimera?” Philip asked.

“How beautiful Stephanie looks tonight? I’m a lucky bastard.” He said with a smile. Philip’s jaw tightens which makes him smile more. He loved getting under Kiriakis’ skin. That has been the one thing that has been fun about this game. Watching him squirm and get agitated every time he was near Stephanie.

EJ realized two days ago that the lines were getting blurred in this game. Hell if he was really true with himself he’d admit that he knew the lines were getting blurred along time ago. Probably when he slipped up and told Stephanie he cared about her. Of course she had to be fiery and challenge him on it. He pretended it was no big deal so she would stop her questioning.

His feeling for Stephanie solidified when Sami said those harsh words to him. He realized she wasn’t worth the trouble and he was tired of the headache. No matter how beautiful she was to him and the feelings he had when he was around her.

Those feelings were diminishing each time she said something to push him away. Well finally she’s said enough for him. He realized it was time to move on. What better person was there to move on with than Ms. Johnson?

“Stephanie is going to wise up to you soon.” Philip said while taking a drink off one of the try the waiters were bringing around.

“Will she go running back to you?” EJ challenged. He can tell the question took Philip off guard. He wanted to say yes but he knew he couldn’t say it because he is an engaged to another woman. “She definitely won’t she’s said it to me time and time again that you guys are two different and you wouldn’t work.”

“You asked her about me.” Philip said with a shocked tone. He tried not to show that he was hurt by what EJ said Stephanie said about him. Even though she hadn’t said a word of what he is saying to him. “Are you nervous you will lose out again? Your track record with woman isn’t the best.”

“I say we are batting about the same percentage chap.” EJ said with a laugh. “I needed to be sure before we got more serious with each other that she was over you. Boy did you put a number on her heart.” Philip glares at him with those words. “But she told me she would never date you again. That you guys were two different. That she wasn’t in love with you. That you guys just wouldn’t work.” EJ said. He pats Philip on the back before walking away. He can tell what he said was on his mind. EJ was hoping it would be enough to keep him from saying or acting on his feelings tonight when Stephanie confessed her love for him. It would confuse him so much that he would be speechless. The silence would hurt Stephanie and she would leave Philip and run right into his arms.

[MrsM]

SOOOOO glad you are back to posting this story!! I have been missing it. Love the twist at the end of the last chapter!!!

[fluffysmom]

I was so happy to log in and see new chapters posted. Thanks BradyDiva. I really missed reading this story. I can hardly wait to see what happens next.

[Kpatch]

I haven't had a chance to read the latest update yet, but I am soooo happy you are continuing this story. Looking forward to catching up!

Thanks bradydiva06!

[villa281]

I am so happy I have waited for this for a very long time. You did not disappoint Brady Diva, this last Chapter was amazing, I cannot wait to read more.

[fluffysmom]

I can hardly wait to read more of the story.

[gapeach]

So glad to see the new chapter!! I KNEWThat EJ was starting to have real feings for Stephanie! Can't wait to see what happens next!!