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Post by Horsey on Aug 30, 2007 10:32:03 GMT -5
Stephanie was at home, savoring her apparent victory. Nothing, she thought, nothing will be able to stop Forrester Originals now. She was confident that Nick would not be able to find another talented designer to take over, and with the showing just a month away, she knew that FO could use the confusion to their advantage. She sat down on the plush sofa and made tentative plans. First off, the press would need to be contacted, and a press conference set up. She thought viciously, that a few well placed innuendos with a sympathetic face would leave questions in buyer’s minds, and hopefully that would equate to more orders for FO. She had complete confidence in Ridge’s designs. Taylor and Nick are through, she thought, and that would bring Taylor back into the family fold. She knew from past experience that Taylor, while claiming to be an independent woman, could not sustain the lifestyle to which she had become accustom to. She also knew that Taylor fell apart whenever she was not involved with a man. The poor thing didn’t know how to live without love in her life. The last time she was left alone, she developed a drinking problem, which led to the tragic death of Darla. Once she was involved with Thorne and then Nick, Taylor was able to shake her addiction. It pained Stephanie that Taylor might once again fall off the wagon, but she was sure that Ridge would be there to pick up the pieces, and they would find their way back to each other.
Stephanie heaved herself off of the sofa, and made her way to the study. She opened up the drawer in her desk, and pulled out the photos of Ridge and Taylor. She smiled to herself as she thumbed through them and thought that once Taylor was through with disentangling herself from Nick, that she and Ridge would once again be together, as they should have been for all those years. She smiled again at the pictures and placed them back into the drawer. Once ensuring that the drawer was locked, she picked up the phone on her desk. Time to get to business, she thought, as she dialed Eric’s cell phone. She hadn’t heard from him since the jail yesterday, and it was high time that he stopped licking his hurt, and get to the business of saving FO. His phone rang and went to Voice Mail. She left a short message for him to return her call, and that she was planning on holding a press conference later that evening. She pushed the button on the phone, checked that she had a dial tone, and proceeded to call Ridge as well. Puzzled when he didn’t pick up either, she then called FO and asked if Ridge happened to be there, when the secretary confirmed he was not in the building. Well, she thought, if the men in the family were not going to be available, she would have to handle it herself. Stephanie picked up the phone again, and made the arrangements for the press conference. She arranged for them to come to the Forrester Mansion. She thought that if she was going to come off as sympathetic to Forrester Creations, it would have more impact, if she was at home; instead of the office. She was about to leave her study, when the door swung open to reveal a very distraught Taylor.
“Taylor, what is wrong?” Stephanie asked, knowing full well what was wrong.
“You would not believe what happened.”
“Taylor honey, come sit down and tell me all about it.” Stephanie made a motion to one of the chairs.
“I don’t know if I can.” Taylor responded in a guarded voice. She really didn’t want Stephanie to know that she and Ridge had been carrying on a secret affair. Taylor knew that Stephanie had very strict convictions on marriage and fidelity. She was scared that her best friend and former MIL would think less of her. Taylor sighed, deciding that Stephanie had always been the one person that understood her, and placing her trust in that, Taylor sat down and starting at the beginning, recounted the last few months to her.
Of course Stephanie was understanding, and told Taylor several times that she thought it was a mistake for her to marry Nick. At the end of the conversation, Stephanie told her that she would stand up for her at any custody hearing, and would help her through the divorce. She also invited Taylor to stay with her at the main house. She would need support in the next few months, and the child would have his own room, once she had custody. Taylor nodded her agreement, and asked Stephanie to accompany her back to Nick’s house to get some clothes and possibly the child. Truth be told, Taylor really didn’t feel the mothering instinct with Nick’s boy that she felt with her children with Ridge. She didn’t like to admit this fact to anyone, however it showed especially to ones that saw how devoted she was to her older children. She would put up a good fight for the child just to keep up appearances, but in her heart she didn’t care if she got custody. The baby had always been about keeping Nick with her, at least in name, even though for sometime now she realized that Nick wasn’t in love with her.
Stephanie and Taylor left the study, and went out the front door. Unbeknownst to either of them a short bald man stood in the bushes carefully watching them as they drove away.
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MissJr
Lounging on the Deck
Brooke IS the Bold & the Beautiful!
Posts: 14,065
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Post by MissJr on Aug 30, 2007 11:30:40 GMT -5
Oh, this is getting SO good! How like Taylor to interject her trifling self into Brooke's grief and then be all bent out of shape because the Rossi men aren't bowled over by her "beauty." She can't keep tabs on Nick and somehow or another, Brooke is supposed to stop grieving her fiance to soothe that leech's bruised ego. Unbelievable! I can tell that the Rossi family is charmed with Brooke. It must be really disconcerting to realize that Carmine had an identical twin! I also love how protective the Rossi's are of Brooke and how they closed ranks around her when it became clear that Taylor was intruding and when it became clear that she was no "friend." I am so looking forward to the Rossi family taking Stephanie down! She is so smug and sure of herself, isn't she? She can obviously manipulate the weak Taylor, who, true to form, ran to her BFF to "do something." BTW--Taylor's admission about her real feelings for her son with Nick is breathtaking! It goes a long way toward explaining why she didn't accompany the child to his doctor's appointment. So who is the spy and what are they looking for?
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Post by Horsey on Aug 30, 2007 11:58:42 GMT -5
So who is the spy and what are they looking for? I have some real good(I hope anyway) twists and turns in this story. While I haven't been able to devote time to actually writing, my imagination has been in overdrive. Check your PM....
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Post by Horsey on Aug 30, 2007 15:16:47 GMT -5
“Hi Mom,” Nick said as he strolled into her boutique.
“Hello darling,” she replied as she leaned over and planted a kiss on her son’s cheek. “What’s wrong,” instinctively she knew when something was bothering Nick.
Nick didn’t say anything, but handed his mother the photos of Taylor and Ridge.
Jackie looked at the photos for a moment, “Nicky I’m so sorry. I thought Taylor wasn’t like that.”
“It really doesn’t matter,” Nick stated as he ran his hands through his hair in agitation. “The marriage has been on the rocks for awhile now, I was trying, for my son’s sake, but now....well it just doesn’t seem to be worth it anymore. You know Taylor barely spends anytime with him, and the nanny is more like his mother than Taylor.”
Jackie raised her hand to her mouth at this revelation. “But I thought she loved that boy, that just can’t be true Nicky.”
“Believe me, she barely says good morning and night to him, most of the time she avoids him.”
“Nicky how could you let this gone on like this.”
“That’s really water under the bridge at this point Mom," Nick said in a firm voice. “I really don’t want to get into the gritty details. I came here to ask you if you would come and stay with me for a few days. You see, I have the business to attend to, and I don’t trust Taylor. I don’t want her trying to sneak the boy out,”
“Do you really think she would do that,” Jackie asked.
“At this point, I wouldn’t put anything past her.”
“Well, of course I would love to spend sometime with him. I can come over now, and get Michel to close up for me.”
“Here,” Nick said as he handed her some papers. “I had my attorney draw up divorce and custody papers. I was very fortunate to find a judge that would give me temporary custody. I’m afraid though I had to show him the photos,” Nick paused for a moment, his ego was slightly bruised, he still couldn’t believe that it was Ridge that Taylor slept with. “Anyway he said, these are the temporary custody papers, just in case you need them. I don’t think Taylor has been served yet. I have to go into the office for a bit, you know I asked Clark to try and step in for Carmine, and he has some designs ready.”
“Wonderful,” Jackie replied. “He has been fantastic with the children’s line. Some of the dresses he designed were breathtaking, even if they were for little girls.”
Nick nodded in agreement, “Well hopefully, he can help us salvage the showing. Brooke is just to devastated to give us any input at this point, and she will be going to Italy for Carmine’s funeral.”
Jackie sighed and tears welled up in her eyes. She took a moment to collect herself.
Nick reached over and hugged his mother, “I’ll see you at home then?”
“Of course darling.”
“Good, and I’ll leave you to that”, Nick said as the phone began to ring. Jackie waited until Nick had walked towards the door, before answering the phone.
“Jackie M’s, Jackie speaking.”
“Bonjourno, is this Jacqueline Payne Marone?”
“Yes it is,” Jackie replied.
“Ms. Marone, I’m a friend of your father’s.”
“Oh?”
“Yes, I was wondering how he was doing?”
“May I ask to whom I’m speaking?” Jackie asked suddenly suspicious.
“Of course my dear, this is Mr. Rossi. I worked with your father during the war.”
“I’m afraid I don’t remember much from that time, I was quite young. Did you say Mr. Rossi? You aren’t related to Carmine Rossi are you?”
“Yes, he was my son.”
“I’m so so sorry, Mr. Rossi.”
Mr. Rossi didn’t answer, but pressed on.
“Your father my dear, how is he?”
“Daddy died 20 years ago.”
“I see,” Mr. Rossi, “and my condolences, my dear. I was hoping to speak to him.”
“Well, I’m not Daddy, but is there something I could help you with?”
Mr. Rossi took a moment to decide if he could trust her, however he remembered how trust worthy her father was and decided it was his best hope for information.”
“Do you know a Stephanie Forrester?” Mr. Rossi asked, a stunned Jackie.
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Post by Horsey on Sept 1, 2007 5:31:00 GMT -5
BTW--Taylor's admission about her real feelings for her son with Nick is breathtaking! It goes a long way toward explaining why she didn't accompany the child to his doctor's appointment. I think I nailed that one quite well, if I do say so myself ....very much in line with Taylor's "alien" comment on the show. LOL and I posted it before it aired.
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Post by pds on Sept 2, 2007 7:43:45 GMT -5
Horsey I just had to tell you that this is wonderful, I love it!!
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Post by Horsey on Sept 3, 2007 19:07:27 GMT -5
Thank you pds and futurebnbstar
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Post by Horsey on Sept 3, 2007 19:08:12 GMT -5
“Of course I know Stephanie Forrester, but I think you already knew that Mr. Rossi.” Jackie responded lightly.
“Ahh, very shrewd like your father, my dear.”
“Why don’t you just tell me what you would like to know, Mr. Rossi?”
“Well, I’ve gathered that you know Mrs. Forrester well?” Mr. Rossi said perceptively.
“Yes, you could say that I know Stephanie Forrester better than I would like too.” Jackie stated matter of factually.
“Would you say she was prone to violence?”
Jackie laughed lightly, “That would be an understatement. In the few years that I have known her…why do you ask?” Jackie concluded abruptly, but keeping a light tone to her voice. “And exactly how did you know Daddy,” she asserted.
“My dear, I believe I met you at your Aunt’s in the south of England.” Mr. Rossi was content to just gain her trust at this point. His old instincts were once again ignited. He knew that this situation required subtly.
Jackie thought back, she remembered her Auntie Estate. She remembered well her bedroom, the canopy bed, complete with lace drapes that Jackie loved pulling open and shut. She remembered the yellow and white stripes of the wall paper above the wainscoting. Several floor to ceiling windows looked out over the rolling countryside. Jackie recalled one particular weekend, she had been excited because Daddy was coming home, and mummy and Auntie were busy preparing the house and gardens, Jackie was wearing a new dress. A gentleman had accompanied Jackie’s father to the country. Mr. Rossi broke into Jackie’s thoughts. “My dear, do you remember that I danced with your Aunt.”
Jackie uttered a quiet “Oh” and said “I think I remember, that was such a long time ago, I was 5 or 6 years old.”
“Well, I have a picture with me that your father gave me from that evening, I’ll be happy to show it too you when I come to Los Angeles.”
“You’re coming to LA?”
“Yes, Brooke, his fiancé, is planning a small memorial service for him there. It is only proper that I be there as well, even though I’m an old old man.”
“Oh yes, I’ve been helping Brooke and Nick with the arrangements.”
“Have you? I had no idea that you knew Brooke that well. I knew Carmine had joined your son’s fashion company, I was overjoyed for him to be working with Alex’s grandson.” Mr. Rossi’s voice carried a touch of sadness with these last words.
Jackie took advantage of the momentary silence, to invite Mr. Rossi to stay with her and Nick. She went on to say that she would love to hear stories about Daddy’s time at war. Mr. Rossi graciously accepted her invitation. He quickly concluded the conversation, asking her to keep her eyes and ears open, especially in regards to Stephanie Forrester. Jackie agreed and they ended the call, and Jackie having glanced at her watch quickly took off for Nick’s house.
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Post by foreverbrookie on Sept 3, 2007 21:06:25 GMT -5
Oh my this is getting quite interesting! Do continue!
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Post by GIOVANNA on Sept 4, 2007 1:28:40 GMT -5
:)Awesome! FINALLY we get some of Jackie's back story. IMO, it is sad the way TPTB saturate us with Hag's back story (As if we give a damn. I know I don't.), yet there is nary a mention of Jackie's life before her marriage.
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Post by Horsey on Sept 4, 2007 7:23:16 GMT -5
I have to agree 100% Gio.
It boggles the mind that the writers for the show insist on the same ole BS, and refuse elaborate on other characters backstories. There are endless possibilities and for the life of me I can't understand why they refuse to go there.
Of course they think they addressed Jackie's backstory with the prositute BS, to me it was a piss poor job. I'm choosing to ignore that particular sl from the show. Call it a rewrite or not staying true to the show's history, but I think Jackie is too classy to have ever been a hooker. There are much more interesting avenues for me to pursue. If I can work the hooker angle in I will, but if not OH WELL! It won't hurt my feelings AT ALL!
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MissJr
Lounging on the Deck
Brooke IS the Bold & the Beautiful!
Posts: 14,065
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Post by MissJr on Sept 4, 2007 12:28:12 GMT -5
BTW--Taylor's admission about her real feelings for her son with Nick is breathtaking! It goes a long way toward explaining why she didn't accompany the child to his doctor's appointment. I think I nailed that one quite well, if I do say so myself ....very much in line with Taylor's "alien" comment on the show. LOL and I posted it before it aired. Well, you certainly called it! The child was never more than a tool to secure her pitiful relationship with Nick in the first place and to "rub Brooke's nose in it."
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MissJr
Lounging on the Deck
Brooke IS the Bold & the Beautiful!
Posts: 14,065
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Post by MissJr on Sept 4, 2007 12:48:47 GMT -5
I have to agree 100% Gio. It boggles the mind that the writers for the show insist on the same ole BS, and refuse elaborate on other characters backstories. There are endless possibilities and for the life of me I can't understand why they refuse to go there. Of course they think they addressed Jackie's backstory with the prositute BS, to me it was a piss poor job. I'm choosing to ignore that particular sl from the show. Call it a rewrite or not staying true to the show's history, but I think Jackie is too classy to have ever been a hooker. There are much more interesting avenues for me to pursue. If I can work the hooker angle in I will, but if not OH WELL! It won't hurt my feelings AT ALL! You and Giovanna are absolutely right. One would think that Jackie's life didn't begin until she met Frank Payne and Massimo Marone. I was appalled at the lengths to which TIIC went out of their way to trash Jackie with the "hooker" arc. It had been my fear all along that the writers would try to paint Jackie and Nick as a couple of grifters who had conned Massimo into embracing them into his family (as if that's some big hurrah or something). Well, they managed to trash Jackie in a way that even I couldn't have imagined! BTW, I loved Mr. Rossi's question about Satanie's propensity for violence. He just HAD to go there, didn't he?
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Post by Horsey on Sept 5, 2007 12:09:27 GMT -5
Lorenzo had unpacked his bags in the second guest room, and had made his way back downstairs. Both Brooke and Rick were out at the moment. Brooke had wanted to go into the office for a little bit, and Rick went with her. Lorenzo stayed behind, he thought it best to stay at the house, and Rick looked like a capable man. He wandered about the place, noting the many photographs. His cousin certainly looked happy in the pictures. Brooke was a breathtaking beautiful woman. Even in mourning, she was stunning, and exuded a radiance that not many women had. Lorenzo could see how Brooke had captivated Carmine’s heart. Lorenzo had heard the rumors of her so called sorted past, and other than Hope nothing really gave him pause. If Carmine had been able to look past it, so could he. Everyone deserved a chance, and since her daughter seemed to get past it, it wasn’t his place to judge. It wasn’t as if, Brooke had gained her wealth on her back. Carmine never failed to mention her accomplishments in the laboratory as well as the boardroom. Papa and Mama were very open minded to current lifestyle choices. They valued integrity more, following your heart and instincts, than simply what appears on the surface. One thing for sure thought Lorenzo, Brooke was a genuine person, good or bad.
He walked over to the glass doors leading to the paved terrace, and noticed a flash of light from the boundary of the privacy fence. He squinted his eyes, and not seeing anything, he closed the drapes on the doors, and continued to draw the curtains in every room in the house. A traditional thing to do, he thought, and as a precaution. He took his cell phone out and called his Uncle Carmine to give him an update.
Brooke and Rick arrived at Forrester Creations in good time. Rick escorted his mother to her office, where her desk was littered with many messages and files.
“Do you want me to stay with you, Mom?”
“No honey, I’m okay.”
“Are you sure?”
“Sweetie, you’ve been great, but I don’t think I’m going to fall apart. In fact it would be therapeutic for me to get some work done.”
“Okay mom I’ll be in the conference room then,” Rick said as he leaned over and kissed his mother on the forehead, and left the room.
Rick closed the door behind him, and strolled down the hall. He was about to enter the conference room, when Nick came out of the elevator. Rick explained that Brooke was in her office, and Nick responded that there was a few things he needed to go over with her. He headed for Brooke’s office, where he paused and knocked softly before entering the office at Brooke’s “Come in”
She looked up from the pile to see Nick standing in front of her. Their eyes met, and for a brief moment her pain lessened.
“Hi,” she said.
“How are you doing?”
“As well as I can be I suppose.”
“I’m sorry about that,” Nick said waving at the desk. “I meant to get in here clean some of that up for you.”
“That’s okay, I could use the distraction.”
“I asked mom to help with the service for the employees. Most of the arrangements have been made. Tomorrow afternoon at 2:00, Rick said you have a hearing in the morning.”
“Yes, and I’m going to Italy.”
“You’re what?”
“I’m going to Italy.”
“Brooke,” Nick started.
“Nick, I’m going, I loved Carmine very much. His family wants him buried there, and I want to go. I’m sure Forrester Creations can do without me for another week.”
“A week? I mean you’ll be gone that long.” Nick quickly reworded his question under Brooke’s hardened face.
“Yes, and I may decide to stay a little longer, the vineyard and surrounding mountains are stunning this time of year.”
“Well, you could use some R and R.” Nick hated the fact that she was going to be so far away, but respected her decision. “I hate to bring this up right now, but I thought it fair to warn you,”
“That you and Taylor had a spat, and she’s out for my blood,” Brooke interrupted cynically. “She stopped by this morning, right after Carmine’s family got there.” “I’m sorry Brooke, but it’s a bit more than a fight. I’ve filed for divorce and custody.”
“What do you mean?”
“Well I, I shouldn’t be laying this on you, you have enough to worry about.”
“Look Nick, Taylor’s already paying me visits, and she not exactly spilling her guts to me, I would rather know what is going on than to let her snipe at me with her innuendos.” Brooke didn’t intend to sound short, but the last few days had been a literal hell, the last thing she wanted was to get embroiled in Taylor and Nick’s marriage.
“I received some photos of her and Ridge this morning.”
“I take it the pictures weren’t G rated.”
Nick laughed harshly, “You could say that. I’m not going to have that momma’s boy in another of my marriages.”
Brooke looked up from the message she was reading, and gave Nick a quizzical look. She knew he was upset with Taylor, but she felt the sting of his words. She decided to let the comment pass, and instead asked Nick if he had met with Clark yet.
“No, but he’s due here any minute.” Her change of subject did not go unnoticed by Nick.
The was a light tap on the door,
“Come in,” Brooke called out, she was glad for the distraction, things were getting a bit uncomfortable in the room.
Lt. Baker entered the office, with many questions on his mind.
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Post by newestconvert on Sept 5, 2007 18:22:08 GMT -5
Horsey, this is just fantastic! I love a good mystery as much as I love a good romance! I am loving this! Keep up the great work gal. Like Missjr, you should be thinking of writing a novel!!!
xo, NC
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Post by foreverbrookie on Sept 5, 2007 19:52:32 GMT -5
Hmm.. Things with Brooke and Nick seemed to get a little heated..
I just can't wait to hear what Baker has for questions!
This service is also certainly going to be an event. I can't wait to see how it all shakes out with Rossi Sr.
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Post by Horsey on Sept 5, 2007 20:06:51 GMT -5
Horsey, this is just fantastic! I love a good mystery as much as I love a good romance! I am loving this! Keep up the great work gal. Like Missjr, you should be thinking of writing a novel!!! xo, NC Right back at you. I feel the same about yours. I don't think I could pull off the romance stuff like you guys do, but I'll try!
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Post by karen3012 on Sept 6, 2007 9:44:11 GMT -5
It is absolutely fantastic Horsey. I love every bit of it. I can't wait to read about Taylor's reaction when she get's to Nick's house to get Nick's son and finds Jackie and those papers there. And don't worry, the romance stuff has been just fine in your story.
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Post by Horsey on Sept 6, 2007 11:24:22 GMT -5
It is absolutely fantastic Horsey. I love every bit of it. I can't wait to read about Taylor's reaction when she get's to Nick's house to get Nick's son and finds Jackie and those papers there. And don't worry, the romance stuff has been just fine in your story. Thank you very much karen. I've been hesitant to share this, but wth... My English professors in college begged me to change my major. However I chose to continue with my Business Degree. I'm starting to rethink my decision though. I have my "trade" skill, and I think I'll start dabbling in writing, who knows LOL....I didn't think this one would be this long, and I'm nowhere near finished with it.
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Post by Horsey on Sept 7, 2007 8:12:22 GMT -5
“Good Afternoon, Ms. Logan, Mr. Marone,” Lt. Baker added.
The phone on the desk buzzed.
“I’ll get that,” Nick said.
He reached over the desk and picked up the receiver, “Hello, oh okay, I’ll be there in a few minutes.”
“That was Clark.” Nick said to Brooke. “I have to go meet with him.”
“I do have a few questions for you, Mr. Marone,” Lt. Baker stated.
“Would you like to ask them now or later?” Nick still had reservations when it came to Lt. Baker. He believed that the Lt. had a good heart, but past experience told Nick, that he tended to go off half cocked and he also seemed to take the word of Stephanie Forrester as the truth. Nick was skeptical that Carmine’s killer would be brought to justice if Lt. Baker was investigating.
“If you will be in your office for awhile, my questions can wait until after your meeting.”
Nick nodded, and left the office to meet with Clark.
“Please have a seat Lt.” Brooke said as she put down the message, and gave Lt. Baker her full attention.
“I wanted to fill you in on what I have so far. I have met with Mr. Rossi’s family; they gave me no indication that Carmine had any enemies. Do you know of anyone that would want to have done him harm?”
Brooke thought for a moment. She tried to search her memory for anything that might help.
“Carmine and I have been involved for a little more than a year. He was a very kind and caring man. I can’t imagine anyone wanting to hurt him.”
“Ms. Logan, your fiancé was shot in the head.” Lt. Baker said as gently as he could. “The placement of the wound could indicate either suicide or murder. Due to the lack of gun powder residue around the wound, I was leaning towards foul play. I also had Mr. Rossi’s house searched and the surrounding beach. We found a casing, and it was a match to the bullet retrieved out of Mr. Rossi’s body.”
Tears started to form in Brooke’s eyes, but she wiped them away quickly. Willing herself to be strong, she could get through this she thought.
Lt. Baker paused, and allowed Brooke a few moments to collect herself. It was obviously very hard on her to listen to the details. He had to proceed with caution here; he knew from past experience that when Ms. Logan was in a fragile state, she could become unpredictable. He was afraid that while her intentions were good, she might inadvertently disclose things she shouldn’t. How could he ask the question most on his mind, without tipping his hand? He decided on an angle and proceeded.
“When we searched Mr. Rossi’s residence, we found the safe in the loft.”
“Do you need the combination?” Brooke offered, finally finding her voice. Here was something she could help with. Something to do, something to help find out who did this.
“No, we don’t need the combination. The safe was open, and empty.”
Brooke opened her mouth in shock. “What do you mean empty?”
“The safe was empty. Do you know what Carmine kept in the safe?”
“Well his passport and other such documents, he also kept a moderate amount of cash in it, but certainly not enough for anyone to kill over, besides Carmine was a very strong and athletic man, he also boxed quite well, I don’t see someone taking it from him.”
“We don’t believe he was shot in the house.”
Brooke instinctively steeled herself for more tears, but they didn’t come. Finally being able to know exactly what had happened was a potent stimulant. Only one thing mattered at the moment, and that was helping the police figure out who did this. It was the very least she could do for Carmine.
“Where then?”
“I would rather not disclose that now. It’s not that I think you had anything to do with it, but the less that is known the better the chance we will catch who did this. If certain facts of the case aren’t widely known, someone may slip and give us the opening we need. We got off the original question though, other than the documents and money was there anything else in the safe that you know of.”
“Well, Carmine also kept certain designs he was working on in there, and I left a diamond necklace over there recently, it would most likely have been in the safe.”
Lt. Baker made a quick list of the items on his PDA before continuing. “You said that you spoke to him the afternoon before we found him.
“Yes, that’s correct.”
“Now on to other business, your ex husband hasn’t contacted you since the altercation yesterday?”
“No and neither has Stephanie.”
“Good. You also have noticed, I assume, that I still have an unmarked car at your residence.”
“Yes, is that necessary?”
“I believe at this point it is.”
“Just one more question, are you having a service for Carmine here, I know his family wishes for him to be buried in Italy.”
“Yes, it will be tomorrow at 2:00.”
“I will be there as well.”
The phone buzzed again.
“Excuse me a moment.” Brooke said as she picked up the phone.
“Hello….yes put him through.”
Brooke placed the receiver down. “I’m sorry Lt., but this is Carmine’s father. I have to take the call.”
“That’s okay Ms. Logan. I can see if Mr. Marone is available now.” Lt. Baker stated as he rose from the chair, and the phone buzzed again.
Brooke picked up the phone again, as Lt. Baker made his way out of the office.
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Post by Horsey on Sept 11, 2007 8:30:10 GMT -5
Lt. Baker made his way down the hall to Nick Marone’s office. He wasn’t expecting an easy interview with Mr. Marone. Honestly, Lt. Baker couldn’t blame him. The last time the two had occasion to met, Lt. Baker was sure he was behind Shane McGrath’s murder. Lt. Baker grimaced slightly at the memory. He had ended up with egg on his face, and he had no intention of it happening again. He knocked on the door not seeing the secretary at her desk, and a curt response of ““come in”” could be heard.
Lt. Baker opened the door, and entered Nick’’s office. Nick was sitting at his desk looking over a small stack of heavy artist’’s paper. Nick looked up from the sketches, and asked the Lt. to have a seat, which he did.
“Mr. Marone, I have a few questions for you.”
Nick didn’t say anything, but waited for Lt. Baker to continue, and kept eye contact.
“When was the last time you spoke or saw Carmine Rossi?”
Nick thought for a moment, “I believe it was during a conference call with our French and Italian buyers. We were finishing the itinerary for the Italy trip.”
Lt. Baker made a few notes. “This is the trip Ms. Logan mentioned the morning she came down to the station.”
Nick nodded, and relaxed in his chair a bit. “They were supposed to leave that morning.”
“What time was the conference?”
“It started at 1:00 and lasted until about 2:30. Brooke left shortly after, Carmine went to his office to work. I believe he left the building at around 4:00. You can check with the security guard, he keeps a log.”
“I’ll do that,” Lt. Baker responded. “And what was the nature of the trip, personal or business?”
“A little of both, Carmine was very hands on with fabric manufacturers. He wanted to visit a factory in the southern part of Italy, and then he and Brooke were going to his parent’s to finalize the wedding arrangements.”
“I see,” said Lt. Baker. “Who else was aware of this trip?”
“Well, I’m not entirely sure, I was, my wife, Brooke of course and her children. Ridge would have known too, he was supposed to take RJ for the week. According to Brooke though he backed out at the last minute.”
Lt. Baker raised an eyebrow, and made several notes in his PDA.
“Mr. Marone, I have to ask this; but where were you after 4:00 until around midnight?”
Nick who had kept his composure up to this point, and to some extent had relaxed a bit, tensed up again, and there was an icy edge to his voice.
“I was in the office until 8:00, again you can verify my departure with the security guard, and after that I drove home, and was at my residence all evening. I played with my son before putting him to sleep, and then I ate dinner and went to bed myself.”
“Is there anyone at the house to verify this?”
Nick glared at the Lt., “Yes, the maid was there and also the nanny. The nanny left at about 9:00, and the maid left at 10:00. Now, if that’s all of your questions.” Nick rose out of his seat, and swiftly walking to the door, he opened it hurriedly , and glared pointedly at the Lt., indicating that the interview was over. I’m not going to let him railroad me again, Nick thought.
Lt. Baker, sighed, “Mr. Marone I really do owe you a sincere apology for my blunder the last time, but you must admit that evidence did point to you.”
Nick continued to glare as a response.
“I see you haven’t gotten over that yet,” Lt. Baker continued smoothly. “Not that I blame you, I only hope that you will give me a chance to prove myself, and with your help I hope to find the person responsible for your Head Designer’s death.”
Nick’s anger abated a degree. Lt. Baker rose walked to the door, and stuck his hand out. Nick, hesitating slightly, took his hand and shook it.
“Mr. Marone, I may require a little more information from you, in the way of financial statements for your company. I do have some suspicions, but considering my last run in with this family, I’m not going to tip my hand to soon, I did that last time...”
“Why would you need financial statements?”
“Let’s say I’m considering motives at this point, and your statements would be a great help.”
Nick scratched his head, debating for a moment whether Lt. Baker was yanking his chain. Nick sighed, walked over to his desk leaving the door ajar, and made a call to the accounting department.
“Nancy, Lt. Baker will be down shortly, he needs some information. <silence> Anything he needs.”
Nick looked at Lt. Baker, “I hope you mean what you said.”
“I assure you I did,” Lt. Baker responded as he headed out the office door. First stop, he thought was the guard’s office
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Post by Horsey on Sept 11, 2007 10:01:42 GMT -5
Demetrio rose and started to make his way to the bar area. Filippa, also stood, and placed a hand on his brother’s arm to stop him.
“Perhaps, it would be better if I went back to our room,” Filippa commented and looked pointedly at Eric Forrester.
Demetrio nodded, and Filippa left the area unnoticed. Waiting safely until Filippa was out of sight, he made his way to the bar. He ordered a glass of merlot, and waited for the barkeep to bring his order.
Eric, who was despondent at best, didn’t really notice the man standing next to him. A cell phone rang, and Eric looked at his coat pocket with annoyance. The ringing stopped, and the phone then beeped. Damn, he thought. He reached for his jacket which was thrown over the bar stool next to him, and fumbled around the pocket for the phone. Finding it he quickly drew it out, looked at the number, and with a snort of disgust, tossed the phone onto the bar, and quickly polished off the martini sitting before him.
“Another,” Eric indicated to the barkeep as he placed the glass of merlot on the bar. Demetrio handed the barkeep a $100 bill, and asked for a tab. The barkeep nodded and turned to get the martini.
Eric’s phone rang again, and he picked up the phone. Ridge, he thought, well he can just stew. I’m sick to death of his sense of entitlement. The barkeep brought over the martini, and Eric downed it again. The bartender raised his eyes, as Eric asked for another.
“May I suggest something to eat sir,” the bartender asked.
“No, just another one.”
Demetrio, sat on a stool with an empty one between himself and Eric. He didn’t want to raise any suspicion, but he wanted to be close enough to hear anything important. Eric downed the next martini, and as he stood up staggered slightly.
“Sir, do I need to call you a taxi?”
“What, huh...uh...no, I’m staying at the hotel.”
Demetrio’s ears perked up, and he picked up a menu to order dinner.
The barkeep indicated that he would be right back, and he escorted Eric to the elevators.
When the bartender came back, no one was there.
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Post by Horsey on Sept 12, 2007 6:24:55 GMT -5
Massimo slowly opened his eyes, he was alive. The effects of the anesthesia made his head foggy, but he felt much better. There was music, he could hear it, but it was turned down low. He concentrated, trying to listen to the words. It was Pavarotti, Massimo let the music and the legendary tenor’s voice lull him; he closed his eyes and fell into a twilight sleep. He wasn’t sure how long he had laid there with his eyes closed, slipping in and out of sleep listening to the rhythmic sounds, the familiar words. When Massimo finally opened his eyes, he focused on a man in a long traveling coat. Mass narrowed his eyes, and recognized Carmine Rossi. He turned his head slightly towards the sound of the music.
“Can you hear me, Mass?” Mr. Rossi said for the third time. Massimo wasn’t sure if he had heard him, or if he just didn’t want to face him.
Mr. Rossi appeared before his face, and Mass saw a pain and burden he hadn’t ever seen before.
“Come now, Mass, he gently put his hand on Mass’s arm, and Mass felt his cool touch. Massimo sighed deeply, slightly wincing from the pain of his sutures.
“Mass, I must ask you some questions, and you must tell me the truth, you owe me that much.”
“I know, but I…”
“No excuses, Massimo.” Mr. Rossi’s voice which had been gentle, became strong and deep. He needed more information and he didn’t have time to be waylaid by whatever guilt or fear Massimo maybe experiencing.
“You know about my son, correct?”
“Yes, I’m aware that your son was killed.”
“Were you approached?”
Mass was silent, he loved Stephanie dearly, and to betray her at even this point was unbearable to think about.
“I see, Mass. You do not wish to say. You told me earlier that you didn’t have anything to do with it.”
“I….I didn’t,”
“But you were approached weren’t you?”
Again, Mass remained silent. Mr. Rossi continued unperturbed, he was getting exactly the information he required.
“You do know my namesake was killed.” At some level, Rossi thought, I must impress on him the seriousness of the situation. “You have sons of your own, do you not? Grandchildren, as well. When was the last time you saw your grandchildren, Mass? I see mine everyday.”
Mass was still impassive.
“Who approached you Massimo?”
“I know you didn’t raise your sons Mass. It shows, do you not think I’ve done the necessary research since finding out that my son was killed. You know how thorough I am. Are you aware I’m going to Los Angeles?”
Mass’s eyes widened in shock, and whispered the word no.
Mr. Rossi smiled slightly; he knew he was getting very close to the truth, much of which he already guessed.
“Yes, I’ll be staying with an old friend and colleague’s daughter. Do you know who that is?”
Mass shook his head, he really had no idea.
“Jacqueline Marone.”
“But” Mass started, Mr. Rossi continued as if he wasn’t interrupted.
“Yes, and her son, or should I say your son.”
Massimo became visibly agitated.
“I thought that would invoke a reaction,” Mr. Rossi said. He glanced at his watch. “I have to be leaving my flight will take off shortly. Do you wish for me to let your family know of your condition?”
Mass shook his head.
“I can’t promise that it won’t come out. Good bye, Giorgio will be in and out. I will remind you that you are alive because of me, and you do your family and honor a disservice if you continue to withhold vital information.” Mr. Rossi made his way to the door. “Until later Mass,” he left and closed the door. Massimo sunk into his bed, and thought about the sickening mess that Stephanie Forrester had involved him in.
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Post by Horsey on Sept 13, 2007 8:26:53 GMT -5
Taylor and Stephanie arrived back at the Forrester mansion, and Stephanie was seething with rage.
“How dare he do that to you, Taylor?” Stephanie was in full bear mode. “I can’t believe a judge would give him custody like that, with no hearing or anything.”
Taylor was actually thankful that only Jackie had been there. She made Stephanie wait outside. It wasn’t easy, but Taylor really didn’t want another confrontation that day, and she knew that Stephanie had a habit of pushing EVERYONE’S buttons.
Jackie had been polite, but not friendly. Apparently she knew about the pictures. The little one was in the bath, and Jackie thought it best not to interrupt. Taylor objected, stating that she at least wanted to kiss the him good night. Jackie finally relented, but when Taylor got up the steps, and into the bathroom the little boy was already in bed, and sleeping soundly. Taylor went over to the crib, and looked at the boy. She couldn’t understand herself why she couldn’t love him. She had always thought of herself as a kind, loving, and giving mother. She prided herself that she loved all children, no matter who were the parents. However, she just couldn’t find it in her to love this child unconditionally. She tried, the first few months; but after awhile she gave up, and hired a Nanny to take care of the child. Taylor threw herself into her practice, and even that seemed to fall apart. She was down to just two clients, and she had heard talk of having her removed from the partnership.
“Taylor,” Stephanie said, “I’m going to get you a shark.”
“What?”
“A shark, a lawyer that’s going to tear Nick to shreds, you know he isn’t exactly innocent himself. I’m sure he still holds a candle for Brooke.”
“Stephanie,” Taylor started. “I have an attorney, and I want to handle this myself. It was MY marriage, and MY child.”
“You don’t know what you are talking about Taylor,” Stephanie dismissed her objections.
“Look Stephanie, I know you mean well, but I really don’t want to discuss this anymore this evening. I just want to take a nice hot bath, have some dinner, and go to bed.” Tears started to form in Taylor’s eyes.
“Okay honey,” Stephanie relented. By this time the two had entered the house, and Taylor went up the stairs. “You can have Ridge’s old room, and I’ll send the maid up with some supper in a little bit. I still have this press conference to attend to.”
Taylor nodded her head, but really didn’t hear Stephanie. She just wanted to sleep, and get this horrible day behind her.
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Post by newestconvert on Sept 13, 2007 17:35:09 GMT -5
Horsey, this is just great! Don't keep us waiting too long for the next install! Great writing and great story!
xo, NC
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