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The Unexpected SurpriseBy Ashley
Chapter 1 Ivy Crane stared in horror at her son, Ethan No! she thought to herself. He did not just call of the wedding! This is just a bad dream, when I open my eyes everything will be back to normal! Ivy squeezed her eyes shut, then reopened them slowly. Unfortunately, nothing changed. She was still standing in her living room. Ethan was standing in the middle of the room, Gwen Hotchkiss was crying her eyes out and her mother Rebecca, looked like she was about to murder someone. Ivy felt faint and grabbed a hold of something. She pulled away in disgust when she realized that she had grabbed her husband Julian’s arm. Julian, however did not seem to notice. He too was staring at Ethan in shock, a brandy in hand. He gulped it down. "Father will not be pleased," he hissed at Ivy. Ivy glared at him. "You think I don’t know that?" "This is all your fault!" Julian said angrily. "You hired that Theresa and now our son has fallen in love with her!" "MY fault?!" Ivy exclaimed. "YOU are the one who has been encouraging Ethan to bed Theresa!" "I told her to sleep with her not to fall in love with her!" Julian said defensively. Ivy glared at him. "Fortunately Ethan is nothing like YOU!" Julian snorted. "Oh please! He’s a chip off the old block!" "If you two wouldn’t mind!" Rebecca cut in, annoyed. "We do have more pressing matters to take care of!" "How could you do this to me Ethan?!" Gwen cried, tears running down her face. "I thought you loved me! How could you leave me for the housekeeper’s daughter?!" "Gwen," Ethan said slowly. "I still love you but I also love-" "I hate you Ethan!" Gwen exclaimed. "I never want to see you again!" She ran out of the Crane mansion. "Gwenie! Wait!" Rebecca shouted and ran after her. Julian glared at Ethan. "What is wrong with you boy? Do you realize what this is doing to Crane Industries?!" Julian exclaimed as he gulped down his brandy. "Don’t listen to him Ethan," Ivy cut in. "I thought you loved Gwen! How could you do this to her? To me!" Ethan shook his head. "I’m sorry Mother but I love Theresa. Now I should go find her." Before Ivy or Julian could say another word, Ethan was out the door. "Well this is just wonderful!" Julian said sarcastically. "Father is going to have a field day with this one! I wouldn’t be surprised if he killed us both!" "I’m sure Ethan will come to his senses before Alistair discovers any of this," Ivy said. She prayed that her words were true. Julian scowled. "I certainly hope so darling or else we’ll both be in deep doo-doo!" Julian stormed out the door, letting it slam behind him. "Off to visit one of his cheap floozies no doubt," Ivy muttered. She sighed and poured herself a glass of brandy. She was so angry at Ethan. The only reason she had stayed with Julian all these years was because of him and his future. To think at one time she actually thought she loved Julian. He used to be so funny and charming. Ivy tried to push that thought out of her head. Her one true love was Sam Bennett. She could never, ever love Julian. She repeated that mantra in her head as she drank some more brandy. Chapter 2 Julian stumbled back to the Crane mansion after spending a few hours at a bar. To his disappointment there were no young ladies for him to fool around with. To his surprise the light was still on in the study. "That’s odd," Julian said to himself. I thought Ivy would be in bed by now." He glanced at his watch it was 3 am. He walked over to the study. Ivy was gulping down brandy. "Ivy?" he said cautiously. Ivy squinted at him. She had been drinking all night she couldn’t make out who this person was. "Is this possible?" she thought to herself. "Could it be Sam?" She grinned. "I didn’t expect you to be here!" Julian raised an eyebrow. "What the hell are you talking about? I live here!" Ivy stood up and wobbled towards "Sam" with a huge smile on her face. "I knew you’d come back to me!" "My God! She’s drunker than a sailor!" He thought to himself. Ivy wrapped her arms around his neck. "I knew you couldn’t resist me forever!" Julian was shocked. He had been trying to seduce Ivy for years. "Well darling," he said with a smile, wrapping his arms around her waist. "You are quite irresistible." So what if she was drunk? Julian thought to himself and began kissing her neck. Ivy moaned with pleasure. "I’ve been waiting for this for years," she said to "Sam". "I love you so much!" Damn she must be really drunk! Julian thought. Too bad she’s not like this more often! Julian picked her up and carried her up to the bedroom. He laid her down on the bed and they made love. * * * The next morning Ivy awoke, her head was pounding. "Remind me never to drink like that again," she muttered to herself. She turned her head slightly to find Julian laying next to her sleeping peacefully. Ivy looked down and realized she was completely naked. She let out an ear-piercing scream. Julian shot up in shock. "Good God Ivy! What’s wrong with you?!" Ivy stared at him to shocked to speak. "You? We? I?" Julian grinned at her. "Didn’t you enjoy last night darling?" Ivy vaguely remembered her drinking glass after glass of brandy. She whacked Julian with a pillow. "You bastard! You took advantage of me while I was drunk!" Julian held up his arms to defend himself against the pillow. "I took advantage of you?!" he snorted. "Please! You should have seen the way you were throwing yourself at me!" "THROWING MYSELF AT YOU!" Ivy shrieked. Julian chuckled. "Well darling you haven’t lost your touch." That did it. Ivy flung another pillow at Julian, wrapped herself in her robe and stormed out of the bedroom, leaving Julian laughing hysterically. "That bastard!" Ivy muttered. Ivy was so furious she didn’t see where she was going and knocked into Pilar. "Oh I’m sorry Pilar." "Is everything all right Mrs. Crane? I thought I heard screaming." asked Pilar, concerned. Ivy rolled her eyes. "That was me Pilar. Last night I was a bit upset about Ethan calling off the wedding." She looked directly at Pilar who shifted uncomfortably. "And I had a little too much to drink and I ended up sleeping with Julian!" Pilar blinked in surprise. "Dios mio!" "I know. Can you believe it?" Ivy ran her hand through her blonde hair in frustration. "I must have thought he was Sam." "Don’t let Mr. Crane hear you say that," Pilar warned. Ivy groaned. "I know. I know." "You know Mrs. Crane, maybe this isn’t so bad. Maybe you and Mr. Crane will become closer," Pilar said delicately. Ivy stared at Pilar like she had three heads. "Me? And Julian? Closer?! Ha! Pilar have you lost your mind? We’re about as close as the North and the South Pole!" "Yes I know you and Mr. Crane don’t exactly get along but he is your husband after all." "We had an ARRANGED marriage. It was nothing more than a business deal!" Ivy argued. "Pilar if this is some kind of ploy to make me forget about Sam it’s not going to work!" Pilar sighed. There was no use arguing with Ivy once she had her mind set on something. "I wish you would stop this pursuit of Sam Bennett Mrs. Crane. It will only lead to heartache. Maybe if you tried to work on your relationship with Mr. Crane-" "No Pilar," Ivy cut in. "I tried that once remember? And look where that lead me, I found him in bed with Suzanne!" No, Ivy thought firmly. I will not allow myself to fall in love with Julian again, I’ll only end up getting hurt.
Chapter 3 Julian smiled into the mirror as he dressed himself. "Last night was a pleasure my little Ivy," he said to himself. Suddenly the phone rang. Julian groaned. "Hello Father," he said not even asking who it was. "Julian what is wrong with you?!" Alistair boomed. "Why what ever do you mean Father?" Julian asked dumbly. "You know exactly what I mean you idiot. I’m talking about Ethan calling off the wedding! While the family falls apart you and Ivy are frolicking around in bed!" Julian has a flashback to the previous night. He grins. "Yessssss," he said absentmindedly. "Julian snap out of it and concentrate!" Alistair admonished. Julian came back to reality. "Yes Father," he said sheepishly. "Now Julian what do you plan to do about Ethan?" Alistair asked in a slow voice as if he was talking to a three-year-old. "Don’t worry Father I’ll think of something," Julian said, annoyed. "That’s what I was afraid of," Alistair mumbled. "I’m warning you Julian if you don’t do something I will take care of this personally!" With that Alistair hung up the phone. Julian stared at the phone with gritted teeth and slammed it down. "Damn those Lopez-Fitzgeralds!" * * * Ivy had freshened up and dressed. She headed down the stairs, she immediately went over to the bar. She paused in the act of pouring herself a brandy. Look where that lead me last time! She thought to herself. She poured herself water instead. Julian snuck up behind Ivy and ran his finger down her back. Ivy let out a yelp. "Julian! Are you trying to give me a heart attack!" she exclaimed, smacking his arm. "I thought we could re-play last night darling," he said seductively. Ivy smirked. "In your dreams. Believe me that will never, ever, EVER happened again!" Julian pouted. "You know for someone who claims to hate me, you put on quite a show last night. You even said you loved me." Ivy choked on her water. "I said THAT! My God I must have thought you were S-" Ivy stopped herself quickly. Julian frowned. "Thought I was who?" "Uh I ah I thought you were someone else," Ivy said nervously. "Yes it’s starting to come back to me now. I thought you were Mel Gibson." Julian raised an eyebrow. "Mel Gibson?" "Uh yes. I watched Braveheart a few nights ago. I must have been thinking about him." Ivy twisted her hands nervously. "Mel Gibson?" Julian repeated, looking at Ivy like she was nuts. "Well like you said I was out of it!" Ivy said angrily. "That’s what happens to people when the get drunk! I’m sure you are well aware of that!" She said with a glare. Julian stood up to his full height. "For your information I have very high tolerance." Ivy just shook her head. "Whatever Julian." "I just got off the phone with Father, he’s not too pleased with us." Ivy groaned. "I would imagine so. What did you tell him?" "I told him I would take care of it." Ivy rolled her eyes. "Well in that case we’re doomed!" Julian narrowed his eyes at her. "Very funny. He was also quite upset about ahem last night." Ivy put her hands on her hips. "I have had enough of this Julian!" "What did he call it? Frolicking?" Julian grinned. "And Father assures you that it wasn’t Mel Gibson in your bed." Ivy threw her hands in the air. "Julian just let it go! It never happened! Just forget about it!" Julian shrugged. "Whatever you say darling." Ivy turned to go up the stairs. "You know Ivy maybe if you weren’t so cold all the time you would see that I am a nice fellow," Julian called after her. Ivy turned her head slightly, but didn’t answer. She continued her way upstairs.
Chapter 4 It was a month later. Nothing much has changed. Ethan was still with Theresa and Ivy and Julian still bickered constantly. Julian had been unsuccessful in getting Ethan to marry Gwen and Alistair’s patience was wearing thin. However, something was about to happen that would change Julian and Ivy’s life. Ivy walked slowly into a store. She was wearing sunglasses, a large hat and trenchcoat. She was fully aware of how ridiculous she looked but she didn’t care, she couldn’t risk anyone recognizing her. Ivy crept down the aisle and spotted the item she wanted. She grabbed it and ran to the register, nearly knocking over a man. "Oh I’m so sor-" she stopped when she realized who it was. "Sam?" "Ivy?" said Sam, surprised. "What are you doing here? And why are you dressed like that?" "Oh!" Ivy exclaimed nervously. "I just had to pick up something." She quickly hid the item behind her back. Sam narrowed his eyes. "Are you following me again?" Ivy shook her head. "No Sam, I’m not I swear. As a matter of fact I was just leav-" "Ivy!" said a cheerful voice. Ivy cursed silently. The voice belonged to the one and only Grace Bennett. Ivy put on her best fake smile. "Hello Grace." Grace smiled brightly. "What brings you to this part of town?" "Oh I was just picking up a few things," Ivy said casually, still gripping the item behind her back. "That’s nice Ivy. I was just picking up the ingredients for my tomato soup cake and I couldn’t leave my Sammykins alone so I brought him with me." Ivy resisted the impulse to gag. "That’s nice Grace. Well I really must be going now it was nice to see both of you." Ivy quickly walked up the register and paid for the item. Sam watched her curiously. Why is Ivy acting so strange? He thought to himself. And what was she hiding? Sam looked to see what Ivy was buying, and he saw a home pregnancy test. * * * Julian rubbed his temples as he listened to Alistair shout at him. "It’s been a whole month Julian I am losing my patience!" "I’m sorry Father but the boy is so damn stubborn," Julian whined. "Face it Father it’s hopeless. I’m sure we can think of something to compensate the Crane/Hotchkiss merger," Julian said hopefully. "It’ll have a be a pretty damn big something!" Alistair boomed. "I’m warning you Julian if this is not taken care of you will live to regret it. Perhaps I should tell Luis about his father’s disappearance." "You wouldn’t!" "Or should I tell T.C. Russell who was responsible for his leg injury?" "I’m your son!" Julian exclaimed, shocked. "I don’t care! Take care of this or I will ruin you!" Alistair hung up the phone. Julian knew that his father always followed through with his threats. It was pretty clear that the Ethan/Gwen situation was impossible. He had to think of something to compensate for the Crane/Hotchkiss merger. But what? "Think Julian! Think!" Julian said out loud.
* * * "No! No! No!" Ivy squeaked as she read the results of the pregnancy test. To her dismay, it was positive. "This CANNOT be happening," Ivy groaned. "I sleep with Julian once and I end up pregnant!" Pilar knocked on the door. "Mrs. Crane? Is everything all right?" "Pilar I’m pregnant!" Ivy hissed. Pilar looked surprised. "That’s wonderful Mrs. Crane." "No it isn’t!" Ivy cried. "I have so much going on right now." Ivy rubbed her temples. "Julian will not be happy." "Mrs. Crane you have to tell him right away," Pilar said firmly. "Remember what happened last time." Ivy sighed. "I should be prepared. I know Julian is going to tell me that I can’t have this baby but I refuse to give it up." Ivy heard silence downstairs, Julian must be off the phone. She sighed again. "I better get this over with." She headed downstairs and saw Julian sitting in an armchair, his brow furrowed in deep thought. Ivy cleared her throat. "Julian?" "What?" Julian asked, annoyed. Ivy bit her lip. "Um do you remember about a month ago we ahem slept together?" Julian looked up at her. "Of course I do." Ivy cleared her throat. "Well-I-uh-um-" "Just spit it out Ivy!" "I’m pregnant!" Ivy squeezed her eyes shut and waited for the fireworks. "You’re pregnant?" Julian asked, taken aback. "This is wonderful!" "It is?!" Ivy asked, shocked. "Yes a new Crane heir! Father will be so pleased!" Ivy stared at him. "Is THAT all you see it as?" Julian ignored her. "This will make up for our foolish son calling off the wedding. I have to call Father now." Ivy watched as Julian dialed Alistair’s number. Well that was easy, Ivy thought to herself. But she felt a little twinge of disappointment. Was it possible that deep down inside she hoped that this baby to bring her and Julian closer together?
Chapter 5 Ivy sighed again and waited for Julian to get off the phone with Alistair. Her mind wondered to Sam. She wondered how he would take the news. It was odd, for some reason her heart didn’t race when she thought about him now. Maybe she realized that she would have to give up her pursuit of Sam for the sake of her child, or could it be for another reason? Julian finally got off the phone with Alistair and turned to Ivy with a smile. "Father is very pleased." "I can tell," Ivy said sourly. "I guess your ass is saved." Julian ignored her. "Think of all the possibilities a new Crane heir will bring. We’ll send it to the best schools, give it the best education, so it will make the Crane fortune grow. Ahh the future looks bright!" "Are you quite finished?" Ivy asked, in a bored tone. "I’m going to go over to the Bennetts. I have to tell Sa- uh Grace the good news." Julian shuddered. "Why in God’s name would you want to do that?!" Ivy glared at him. "Grace is my friend Julian. I just want her to share in my happiness." Julian shrugged. "Whatever you say Ivy. While you’re consorting with the Bennetts I’ll be at the store picking up a few things for my new heir." Ivy rolled her eyes. "Julian you have plenty of time for that." "The Cranes must have the best," was his response and he walked out the door. Ivy shook her head as she watched Julian go. As soon as she heard the limo pull away from the driveway. She picked up the phone and dialed Sam’s number. "Bennett residence," said a very masculine voice. "Sam?" Ivy said in a small voice. "Ivy why are you calling me?" Sam asked, sharply. "Sam I need you to meet me right now." "If this is one of your tricks, you can forget about it." "No Sam I promise this isn’t a trick. Just meet me this one last time and then I promise you will never hear from me again." Sam hesitated. "Okay," he finally agreed. "Meet me at our rock." Ivy hung up the phone and took a deep breath. She was finally ready to give up on Sam. She knew it wasn’t going to be easy but it had to be done. * * * Julian stared at the large display in front of him. This was probably the greatest challenge he had ever faced. "Good God how many different baby bottles can there possibly be?" he wondered out loud. Sighing in defeat, he proceeded to take one of each and dump them all in the cart. The other customers looked at him strangely. The last person they expected to see in the Baby Depot was Julian Crane. Julian back up his cart and suddenly he felt someone bump into him. "Watch where you’re go-" He turned shocked and came face-to-face with a person he know all to well. "Suzanne?!" Suzanne looked equally shocked. "Julian?!" She glanced down at his cart and saw all the baby products inside. "How did you know about the baby?" Julian looked at her strangely. "Ivy told me of course." How could Suzanne possibly know that Ivy was pregnant? he thought to himself. Suzanne looked nervous. "Ivy knows?!" "Yes of course Ivy knows Suzanne!" said Julian incredulously. "Naturally, she was the first one to find out!" "And she’s not mad?" Suzanne asked, confused. "I don’t think she’s mad I think she’s happy, although you can never tell with her I swear sometimes-" "You’re not mad either?" Suzanne interrupted. Julian raised an eyebrow. "Of course not, I’m overjoyed. A new Crane heir is definitely something to celebrate." "Oh Julian I’m so happy!" Suzanne grinned. Julian was still confused. Why would Suzanne be happy about Ivy having a baby? "I know you’ll be a good daddy to our baby!" Suzanne said happily. Julian coughed. "Did you say OUR baby?!" Suzanne nodded. "We have to start thinking about names. And of course you’ll put it in your will right?" Julian stumbled into a shelf, causing several packages of diapers to fall down. Suddenly he felt weak and everything went black. Suzanne nudged him with her foot. "Julian? Julian?"
Chapter 6 Ivy walked into the park and saw Sam was waiting for her. He was sitting on the rock with a faraway look in his eyes. Ivy took a deep breath. "I better get his over with," she muttered to herself. She approached him. "Hello Sam." Sam looked serious. "Hello Ivy." Ivy cleared her throat. "Well I’m just going to cut to the chase. Sam I want to apologize for everything I’ve done." Sam took a step back, surprised. "Apologize?" "Yes. I should have never tried to break you and Grace up and take you away from your family. I know how much your family means to you." Ivy paused. "I now realize that because I’m about to have another child." Again Sam looked surprise. "I’m glad you finally realize that Ivy. But I’m surprised I thought you hated Julian and now your having his baby." Ivy sighed. "I am trying to work on my relationship with Julian, for our child." She paused again. "And for myself," she said with a tiny smile. "So again Sam I apologize and I hope you won’t hate me forever." Sam’s expression softened. "I could never hate you Ivy. I accept your apology." Ivy smiled. "Thank you for being understanding. I promise you’ll never hear from me again." Sam nodded solemnly. Ivy wondered if it was her imagination but Sam actually looked a bit disappointed. "Well I should be going. Goodbye Sam." "Goodbye Ivy." Ivy walked away from Sam and sighed with relief. To her surprise she didn’t feel any sadness. In fact, she felt like a great weight was lifted off her shoulders. Now she would go home to Julian. It would probably take a lot of effort to get along with him and fix their marriage, but Ivy was up for the challenge.
* * * Julian stumbled back to the mansion a couple of hours later and slumped into a chair. After paying the tabloid reporters a large amount of money to keep pictures of him passed out on the floor out of the Enquirer, he had finally reached an agreement with Suzanne. She agreed to keep her pregnancy under wraps as long as Julian paid her a sufficient amount of money to support the baby. Julian reluctantly agreed. The amount she asked for was a bit much but he had no choice. His thoughts were broken by Ivy. "Julian?" Julian jumped slightly. "Yes Ivy?" he asked nervously. Ivy looked at him curiously. "Where are the things you were going to get?" Julian tugged at his collar. "Oh uh well you were right. There’s plenty of time for all that." "Well while you were gone I have made a decision," Ivy said matter-of-factly. "I think we should try to get along better." "Are you saying you want to rekindle our relationship?" Julian asked, surprised. "For the sake of the baby," Ivy added quickly. For the first time in his life, Julian felt guilty. "Ivy I really don’t think it’s nescess-" Ivy held her hand up. "My mind is made up. Can you please do something decent for once in your life?" Julian sighed. "Whatever you want dear." Ivy smiled satisfied. "Good." She stared at him for a few minutes, then she begrudgingly kissed him on the cheek. Julian stared at her shocked. "Well don’t look so surprised," Ivy said, annoyed. "Besides I’m not doing it for you, I’m doing it for the baby." She stormed upstairs before Julian could say anymore. Julian sat back in the chair feeling like a truck hit him. "So this is what guilt feels like," Julian muttered to himself. Ivy had no idea what was going on behind her back and here she was trying so hard to get along with him and be a good mother. For the first time in years he was starting to care for Ivy. But if she ever found out about Suzanne, all hope would be lost for them.
Chapter 7 It was about a month later. Julian and Ivy had been getting along just fine, they even managed to seem like a happily married couple. Both of their attitudes toward each other have changed for the better. They still argued, but not as much. The entire Crane household was surprised by their behavior. Pilar was thrilled that Ivy had finally given up on her former lover. That morning, Ivy decided to go shopping. She said goodbye to Julian and was on her way. The minute she walked out the door the phone rang. Julian picked up the phone. "Julian Crane." "Is the Ice Queen gone?" a nasally voice said. "Suzanne!" Julian hissed. "I thought I told you not to call here!" "We had a deal remember?" she said nastily. "You give me my money and I’ll keep my mouth shut." Julian glanced around to make sure no one was listening. "I don’t want Ivy to find out about this." Suzanne snorted. "Since when do you care if your little wife gets hurt?" "None of your damn business," Julian snapped. "Oooo aren’t we a bit testy," Suzanne taunted. "She’s still not giving you anything is she? If you decide to wise up you know where to find me." "Sleeping with you was the biggest mistake of my life," Julian growled. "I didn’t realize what a bitch you really are." "I’m wounded," she said, pretending to be hurt. "Anyway, don’t forget to meet me tonight. At 11:00 sharp. And don’t worry as long as you bring the money, your little wife won’t find out. You’ll never here from me again." "I’ll be there," he muttered and slammed the phone down.
* * * Ivy walked into the Book Café and bumped into someone. "Oh I’m so sorry-" she stopped herself when you saw that she had bumped into her arch rival Eve Russell. "Hello Eve," she said formally. For once Eve wasn’t glaring at the woman, she actually looked nervous. "Ivy! Ahh what brings you here." "Oh I was out shopping and I decided to take a coffee break," she said breezily. "Oh, ah-" Why was Eve acting so strange? Ivy thought to herself, but she let it go. "Eve I thought you should know. I have told Sam that I am going to stay out of his life for good," she said, almost proudly. Eve looked stunned. "You did?" Then she narrowed her eyes. "What are you up to Ivy?" Ivy rolled her eyes. "Eve I have no ulterior motive. I’m trying to work on my marriage. And I’m pregnant." Eve looked horrified. "You’re pregnant?! Oh no!" Ivy looked at Eve suspiciously. "Eve what is wrong with you? Why are you acting so strange?" Eve sighed. "Ivy I have to tell you something. Although I don’t know WHY I’m telling you. It’s not like you’re my friend or anything," she sighed again before continuing. "Ivy a woman came to the hospital the other day, claiming that she wasn’t feeling well. So I ran some tests and it turns out that she was pregnant," Eve paused. "She claims that Julian is the father." Ivy felt her blood boil. "You’re lying!" she hissed. Eve shook her head. "I wish I was Ivy." "Who is this woman?!" Ivy demanded. "Who the hell does she think she is going around blabbing things like that?!" Eve sighed. "Her name is Suzanne." Suddenly Ivy felt like Eve stabbed her in the chest. "Suzanne?" she whispered. In that moment, Ivy’s entire world crumbled before her. "I have to go," she said, her voice wobbling. "Ivy I’m sorry-" Ivy didn’t answer her, she walked out the door of the Book Café. She was determined not to let anyone see her cry. Finally when she was alone, she broke down and sobbed.
* * * Julian was sitting in his study, think about how he would get away with his scheme. When he heard the door slam. He walked over to greet his wife. "Back from shopping I see," he said with a grin. Then he saw her face and was surprised. Her eyes were puffy and red and tears were streaming down her cheeks. "What’s the matter darling?" he approached her. Ivy slapped him, hard. "Don’t touch me you bastard!" Julian took a step back, shocked. "What was that for?" "Don’t play dumb with me you two-timing son of a bitch!" she roared. "I know all about Suzanne and your little ‘Crane heir!’" Julian’s face turned bright red. "Damn that woman and her big mouth!" Ivy shook her head. "It wasn’t Suzanne who told me, not that that matters! How could you do this to me Julian?! Just as we were starting to move on!" Julian placed his hands on her shoulders. "Ivy please let me explain. It’s not what you think." Ivy shoved him off. "I don’t want your damn excuses. I hope you rot in hell Julian!" With that, she ran out the door. Julian punched a wall in frustration. "Damn it!"
* * * Ivy ran and ran, her vision blurry. She had no clue where she had ran to. She stopped for a moment to take a breather and she realized where she was. She had run to the park, to her and Sam’s rock. "Damn you Ivy!" she yelled at herself. "How could I be so stupid! I did it again! I actually believed he cared about me. I’m a fool a DAMN FOOL!" She sat down on the rock. "You have no idea what I gave up for you Julian! I hate you Julian Crane!" She began to cry again. She didn’t even bother controlling her sobs. Suddenly she felt a familiar touch on her shoulder. She looked up. "Sam." she whispered.
Chapter 8 Through her tears, Ivy looked at Sam and saw the concern in his eyes. She tried to pull herself together. "What are you doing here?" she asked, wiping her eyes. He didn’t answer he just stared at her. He saw the same woman he saw all those years ago. Distraught and heartbroken. The woman he had comforted, the woman he had loved. He sat down next to her on the rock, and wrapped his arm around her shoulders. "Ivy what’s wrong?" Then Ivy just broke down, she cried into Sam’s shoulder and the whole story poured out. She told him about Julian, Suzanne, everything. Sam felt a lump in his throat. He stroked her hair. "That asshole," he said through gritted teeth. "How could he do this to you?" He held her tighter and let her cry. Ivy was confused. Why was Sam here? Why was he comforting her? Why did he care? But she didn’t care, she just wanted someone to talk to. "I don’t know Sam," she sniffed. "I was really beginning to think he cared about me. Everything was looking better," her voice broke, she pulled away from Sam. "I’m so stupid, stupid, stupid!" she yelled. Sam pulled her close, and then without thinking he kissed her. Ivy was in shock. It felt so familiar, his lips on hers, but she pulled back. "No Sam," she said. "We can’t do this, it’ll only make things harder for me." She knew she should have been thrilled that Sam wanted to be with her, but something was holding her back. She didn’t know what. Sam pulled away, embarrassed. "I’m sorry Ivy I don’t know what came over me." Ivy put her hand on his cheek. "Thank you for being here with me Sam, but you should go home to your family." She stood up. "I should go too." "Are you going to be alright?" Ivy managed a weak smile. "I’ll be okay. I’m a survivor." She turned and walked away. Sam watched as the woman he truly loved walked out of his life for good.
* * * Julian checked his watch. It was getting late and Ivy still hadn’t returned. He was starting to worry. She wasn’t in the right state of mind when she ran out. But it was almost time for him to meet Suzanne. As soon as he paid her off, he could move on with his life with Ivy. Although he had no idea how he would put back together what they had started to build. With a sigh, he picked up the suitcase full of money and headed out the door.
* * * Ivy wearily walked back to the mansion. Julian was nowhere in sight. He’s probably at the bar, she thought bitterly. Hitting on anything in a skirt. She started to head up the stairs to her room, but she heard two of the maids, Ashley and Allison, talking. "Heard any gossip recently?" Allison asked. Ashley snorted. "Can you believe it? Suzanne called me the other day." "Is it true that she’s pregnant was Mr. Crane’s baby?" Allison asked, intrigued. "Oh she’s pregnant alright. But Mr. Crane isn’t the father." Suddenly Ivy’s ears perked up. She tip-toed a little closer so she could here better. Ashley continued on. "Suzanne had a one night stand with this ex-convict, of course she didn’t know he was an ex-convict at the time." Allison snorted. "Typical Suzanne." "And lo and behold she got pregnant. Conveniently Mr. Convict fled town a couple weeks later. Of course Suzanne had no way to support the baby, so she got this "wonderful" idea to trick Mr. Crane and tell him he was the father, so she could get her hands on the Crane fortune." Ivy felt her blood boil. That little scheming bitch! She thought to herself. "But the funny thing is," Ashley continued. "Mr. Crane couldn’t be the father, it’s impossible, he and Suzanne haven’t slept together in months. But I guess he was too dumb to figure that out." "Hey just because he’s rich doesn’t mean he’s intelligent," Allison said with a laugh. "Poor Mr. Crane. I almost feel sorry for him. He’s being played for a fool." "Uh huh," said Ashley. "She’s meeting him tonight behind the Jazz Club to get the money." "Ahem." The two maids whirled around to find Ivy standing behind them, grinning like a Cheshire cat. Allison dropped the feather duster. "Oh Mrs. Crane, we-uh-uh-uh-" "Hello girls," said Ivy cheerfully. "I just wanted to tell you that I’m on my way out. I’m in the mood for a little jazz tonight." "Oh," Ashley stammered. "Have a lovely evening." "I will." With a wave, she stepped out of the room. Ashley grabbed Allison’s arm. "Oh my God Suzanne is going to kill us!" Ivy poked her head back in the room. "Oh by the way, remind me to give the two of you raises." Then she left again. The girls were silent for a moment. Then Ashley released Allison’s arm. "Oh well I never liked Suzanne that much anyway." Allison grinned. "Me either."
* * * Julian, decked out in a trenchcoat and sunglasses, crept through the dark alley and approached the back of the Jazz Club. Suzanne was waiting impatiently. "Well it sure took you long enough! Got the money?" Julian held up the suitcase, Suzanne reached out for it but Julian drew back. "You know I really shouldn’t be giving this to you since you opened your big mouth." Suzanne glared at him. "I don’t know what your talking about. I haven’t said a word to anyone." Julian raised an eyebrow. "Oh really then how did Ivy find out?" "I have no idea but if you don’t give me the money, the tabloids are gonna find out," she threatened. Julian was just about to hand over the suitcase, but then he heard. "Julian don’t!" Ivy appeared from the shadows, wearing a similar ensemble. "She’s a liar don’t give it to her." Julian looked at her in shock. "Ivy what are you doing here? How did you know we would be here?" "Nevermind Julian," Ivy snapped. She glared at Suzanne, who looked equally shocked. "M-Mrs. Crane, what a pleasant surprise." "Shut up!" Ivy hissed. Then she turned to Julian. "Julian she’s deceiving you, you’re not the father of her baby." "Don’t listen to her Julian!" Suzanne cried out, panicked. "She’s lying! She’s just jealous!" "I said shut up!" Ivy roared, her blue eyes boring holes into Suzanne. "You little conniving bitch. I know all about your little one stand with that ex-con and how he left you and how your trying to pass off Julian as the father to get your grimy little hands on the Crane fortune!" Suzanne’s faced paled. Ivy laughed. "Oh yes Suzanne I know all about it, thought you could get away this huh?" Suzanne glanced at Julian, who was infuriated. "You little whore I’m going to-" Ivy held up her hand. "Please Julian, allow me." She pulled a handgun out of her trenchcoat. "M-Mrs. Crane, what are you doing?" Suzanne stammered, backing away. "I warned you what would happen if you messed with me again," said Ivy menacingly. "But you just didn’t listen." She slowly pulled back the trigger. "Please Mrs. Crane don’t kill me!" Suzanne shrieked. "Ivy don’t!" Julian yelled. But it was too late, she fired.
Chapter 9 Julian gaped at the sight of Suzanne lying on the ground. "Oh my God Ivy are you crazy?!" He started to panic. "We have to dispose of the body!" Ivy glared at him. "Calm yourself Julian." She turned back to Suzanne. "Get up you fool!" Julian’s eyes widened as Suzanne’s eyes opened. "I’m alive!" she said stupidly. "You didn’t kill me!" Ivy rolled her eyes. "Of course not you idiot. You know me better than that!" She opened the gun and emptied out the bullets. Julian gaped at her. "B-blank bullets?" he stammered. Ivy grinned slyly. "Yes dear history does repeat itself." Suzanne started to stand up, shakily. "But," Ivy said holding up her hand. She pulled out a cartridge from her trenchcoat. "I do have real bullets here. So I would suggest you leave Harmony right now. And if you ever bother me or my husband, I will not hesitate to kill you. Do we understand each other?" Suzanne nodded quickly and ran. Ivy let out a huge breath of relief. Julian gaped at her for a moment then grinned. "Well there you do have some Crane blood in you after all!" He tossed his arm around her. "Don’t push it," Ivy said, icily, shoving his arm off her. Julian sighed. Back to the old Ice Queen again. "Fine let’s go home," he said. They walked in silence for a few minutes, then Ivy slipped her arm through his. Julian smiled as they continued to walk in silence, but the silence was definitely more friendly.
* * * It is 8 months later, Ivy is now very pregnant and should be due very soon. She and Julian are sitting in the living room both reading huge books "What to Name Your Baby." "How about Rufus?" Julian suggested. Ivy glared at him. "Rufus? Are you kidding me?" "Fine then how about Elmer?" "Ewwwww!" "Floyd?" "Absolutely not!" "Felix?" "Uh uh." "Dickens?" "NO!" "McDuff?" "Julian where are you getting these names?!" Julian shoved the book under Ivy’s nose. "Look it says right here. McDuff!" Ivy glanced at the cover of the book. "Julian! This book was written in 1930!" Julian looked at the cover. "Oh," he said embarrassed. "Alright then how about Shane?" Ivy raised her eyebrows. "Shane? Shane Crane?" Julian threw his hands in the air. "I give up! If you’re so brilliant YOU think of a name!" "Well at least the name I pick won’t be a name that was popular when Alistair was born!" Ivy shot back. "Well if it’s a girl we can name it Brandy!" said Julian with a grin. "Oh you-" Ivy whacked him on the head with the book. "OW!" "Julian you are crazy!" Ivy said with a huff. Julian grinned. "You may be right. I may be crazy, but it just might be a lunatic you’re looking for!" Ivy rolled her eyes. "PLEASE no Billy Joel." But she couldn’t help smiling. Suddenly the doorbell rang. Moments later Pilar appeared. "Mr. and Mrs. Crane, Grace Bennett is hear to see you." "Oh God no!" Julian groaned. "Don’t be rude!" Ivy admonished. Ivy put on her best fake smile. Grace walked into the room and was holding something that appeared to be a cake. Ivy’s smile faded a little. "Hello Grace." "Hi Ivy!" Grace threw her arms around her. "How’s my favorite mother-to-be? Ivy stiffened. "I’m fine thank you." Grace grinned. "I brought you a tomato soup cake. I know how bad those pregnancy cravings get." Julian coughed loudly. Ivy did her best to keep the smile on her face. "Oh well thank you. That was very-ahem-thoughtful." "So what are you two up to?" Grace asked. "Oh nothing much," said Ivy politely. "We were just discussing names for the baby. But we can’t seem to agree on anything." "I know the PERFECT name for you baby!" said Grace. Julian actually stirred. "Oh? And what might that be?" "Juvy." Julian and Ivy exchanged looks. "Juvy?" Julian asked. "As in juvenile detention center?" Grace giggled. "No! No! Julian you silly! It’s a combination of your names. Julian and Ivy! Juvy! It will be a symbol of your true love and devotion for each other! If Sam and I ever have another baby we already decided that we’ll name it Gram!" "Of all the idiotic-" Julian was stopped by a kick from Ivy. "Well Grace that name is just-uh-lovely. We’ll certainly consider it," she said. "Oh good! I’m so happy! Well I have to go now! Bye! Enjoy the cake!" She waved and skipped out the door. Julian turned to Ivy. "Ivy, I absolutely REFUSE to give the baby THAT name!" "Calm yourself Julian. I just said that to get rid of her!" said Ivy with a chuckle. "Symbol of our love and devotion! Bah!" he snorted. "Yes imagine that," Ivy mused.
Chapter 10 Ivy stared at him with surprised eyes. Ethan had always been her pride and joy. She had always considered him intelligent and open-minded. So when she was having trouble deciding on what to name the baby, she thought who better to ask then Ethan. What surprised her was that Ethan gave her the most idiotic response possible. "Well Mother I think you should name the baby Gwen because I want Gwen to know that I still love her even though I left her for Theresa." Ethan looked quite satisfied with himself. Before Ivy could think of a response Julian sauntered in holding a long piece of paper. "I have composed a list of names that I see fit for the baby, since you obviously didn’t like the other ones I suggested." He hands the paper to Ivy. Ivy reads the list out loud. "Girls: Amaretto, Brandy, Champagne, Corona, Kahlua, Margarita, Martini, Tequila, Vodka. Boys: Bourbon, Cognac, Gin, Jack Daniel, Liqueur, Scotch, Whiskey, Zinfandel?! JULIAN LINUS CRANE!! YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME!!" "What?! I think those names are rather charming!" he pouted. "I’m partial to Zinfandel myself." "Ohhh sometimes I could strangle you!" Ethan stared blankly at his parents. "I don’t get it." Ivy sighed. "Ethan go to your room." Ethan nodded. "Okay Mother." He walked out of the living room, up the stairs. Ivy heaved a huge sigh. "Julian, why? Why? WHY? Are you so insistent upon naming our child after an alcoholic beverage?" "They were merely suggestions!" said Julian defensively. "I happen to think those names are very dignified and Cranelike! They-uh-just happen to be the names of alcoholic beverages." Ivy rolled her eyes. "Please Julian." Julian narrowed his eyes. "Ivy, if you would just-" Suddenly the phone rang. Ivy answered. "Hello? Oh hello…Grace." Julian started gagging. Ivy hushed him with a look. "Yes?…Oh well Grace that’s very nice of you but…Yes Grace but we really…Yes…Alright fine then…7:00?…Okay see you then. Goodbye." Ivy heaved a huge sigh then hung up the phone. "Julian we are going to the Bennetts’ for dinner tonight." Julian choked on his brandy. "EXCUSE ME?!" "I TRIED to get out of it," Ivy insisted. "But that woman is so damn pushy." "Fine then," Julian grumbled. "I suppose I should get ready for an evening with the locals." He started to leave the room. "Julian?" Ivy said hesitantly. He turned around "Yes?" "Well I just want you to know that despite all our differences-" "YES?" Ivy took a deep breath. "I’ve always loved youuunited Airlines." "Oh," Julian said, a bit disappointed. "Well that’s good to know." He walked slowly out of the room. Ivy sighed. If only she wasn’t so stubborn! Could it be possible that she might actually love Julian? Who knew? Stranger things have happened
* * *
"Helloooo!" the cheery Grace Bennett greeted the couple as they entered the Bennett house. "I’m so happy you could come!" Ivy smiled politely. "Thank you for inviting us Grace, we’re happy to be here. Aren’t we Julian?" Julian, who was taking a long drink out of his flask simply nodded. "Well come in!" Grace said cheerily. Ivy and Julian stepped into the house. Julian blanched at the sight of T.C. Russell. "You didn’t tell me HE was coming!" Julian hissed. "I didn’t know!" Ivy hissed back. Julian took another drink out of his flask. T.C. did not look too thrilled to see Julian either. He pulled his wife aside. "You didn’t tell me Grace was inviting the Cranes!" "Oh well T.C. I didn’t know," said Eve, nervously. "Let’s just try to get along with them okay?" Ivy approached Eve. "Hello Eve may I speak to you for a moment?" The two women walk into the living room. "I want to call a truce. I also wanted to thank you for telling me about Suzanne." Eve hesitated. "Well Ivy since you have decided to give up on Sam I suppose their is no reason why the two of us can’t be civil towards each other." Ivy nodded. "Thank you Eve." The two women went back into the kitchen. Sam was now in there. The two briefly stared at each other then went about their business. "Grace do you need help with anything?" Eve asked. Grace shook her head. "Nope everything’s taken care of. I made my famous Asparagus Surprise." Everyone in the room groaned inwardly. Julian looked absolutely horrified. Ivy grabbed his hand and dragged him to the table before he could bolt out the door. The rest reluctantly followed. Grace smiled. "Before we start I would just like everyone to know how happy I am that all of us could gather here together-" "AHHHHHHHHHHHH!!" Ivy screamed in pain. "Ivy what’s wrong?" Grace asked. "I’M GOING INTO LABOR!" Ivy screamed. Sam ran to her side. He took her hand. "It’ll be okay Ivy. I’ll get you to the hospital." Julian shoved Sam out of the way. "Excuse me but I’M her husband! I should be doing that!" He took Ivy’s hand. Sam shoved Julian. "But I’M the Chief of Police! I know what to do during emergencies!" Julian shoved Sam again. "BUT I AM JULIAN CRANE!!" Eve, exasperated shoved both of them out of the way. "WOULD YOU TWO SHUT UP?!" she roared. "We have to get Ivy to the hospital! I’m the doctor I’LL take over." She throws T.C. the car keys. "T.C. you drive!" she ordered. "Sam help me get Ivy to the car! And Julian you…ah… just be here for emotional support!" "HURRY UP!" Ivy cried out. The six of the them rush to the car and speed to the hospital.
Chapter 11 Ivy was wheeled to the maternity ward, squeezing Julian’s hand. "THE DRUGS!! GIVE ME THE DRUGS!!" she screamed. Julian gritted his teeth, he thought all his fingers were about to break. "Ivy dear just calm down!" "GIVE ME THE DRUGS!" she screamed louder. "Ivy we can’t give you the drugs yet!" Eve said. "Just hold on." Eve and the nurses wheeled Ivy into a room. Ivy finally released Julian’s hand. Eve shut the door and Julian walked slowly to the metal chairs outside the room. The four of them sat in silence for awhile. Finally Julian stood up in frustration. "What’s taking so long?! How long does it take to deliver a baby?!" Grace slung her arm around Julian’s shoulder. "Now, now Julian dear. Don’t fret I’m sure everything is fine." Julian shrugged her arm off. "That’s so reassuring," he grumbled. Then, Eve stepped out of the room, dressed in her scrubs. She approached Julian. "Julian I’m afraid there are some complications, we may have to do a cesarean section." Eve was surprised at the concerned look on Julian’s face. "But don’t worry she’s in good hands." Eve went back to attending Ivy and Julian sank back down into the chair. I’m sure everything will be fine, he thought to himself. Eve Russell is a competent physician I’m sure whatever complications there are Eve will take care of it. After awhile, Julian fell into a deep sleep.
* * * Julian awoke from his sleep from a light shaking. He blinked a few times clearing his bleary eyes and saw Eve Russell standing over him. "Oh good Eve you’re here. How is Ivy? And the baby?" Eve looked quite distraught. Julian knew something wasn’t right. "Julian," Eve said hesitantly. "I don’t know how to tell you this, but Ivy didn’t make it." Julian felt as if Eve had stabbed him. "What do you mean she didn’t make it?!" he cried, numbly. "I’m sorry Julian we did everything we could but-" "You bastard!" Sam screamed, pinning Julian to the wall. "This is all your fault!" Julian didn’t even feel Sam’s strength as he was pinned against the wall. Sam thrust him against the wall. "You always treated her like garbage! Are you happy now that she’s dead?!" Sam shouted his eyes boring into Julian’s. T.C. managed to pull Sam off of him. Julian, looked around him and then started to run. "Julian! Wait!" Eve called. Julian ignored her, he kept running faster and faster, his vision blurry. He burst out of the hospital into the rain. The pouring rain washed over his skin, although he couldn't feel it through the numbness in his heart. He thought of the time when they first met, their wedding, when their children were born, all of their fights, it all flashed through his mind and pained his heart like little pieces of glass. The very heavens seemed to be weeping for the loss of his dear Ivy, the love he had had all along but never fully realized until it was too late. Julian lifted up his head and felt the icy droplets hit his face, like millions of tears "Why?" he whispered brokenly, "Why did you have to take her from me now? When we had just begun to fully live our lives?" How could this have happened? Just when they were starting to turn over a new leaf. He wished he could take back all the years of unhappiness and relive them. Suddenly he heard a soft voice. "Julian?" He turned and saw Eve standing behind him. "Please Eve," he said softly, turning around again. "Whatever you have to say now can’t be important. Please just leave I want to be alone." Eve placed his hand on his shoulder. "I’m so sorry for your loss Julian but I came to tell you that you have a beautiful baby girl." Julian turned sharply. "What?" Eve nodded somberly. "Yes, Julian the baby survived. Do you want to see her?" Julian nodded and slowly walked back with Eve into the hospital. Once they were back in the maternity ward, Eve handed him a tiny baby. Julian stared at the beautiful little girl. She had Ivy’s bright blue eyes and soft blonde hair. The baby blinked up at him in surprise and her little lips curled into a little smile. Julian’s stomach tied up in knots. His thoughts were broken once again by Eve. "Julian, do you have a name picked out?" she asked. Julian nodded. "Ivy," he said. "I want to name her Ivy, in memory of her mother." He turned back to the baby. "And I promise you that you will have a life full of love and support. And someday I’ll tell you what a wonderful woman your mother was. And," he choked on his words. "How much I loved her." Julian nodded. "Ivy," he said. "I want to name her Ivy, in memory of her mother." He turned back to the baby. "And I promise you that you will have a life full of love and support. And someday I’ll tell you what a wonderful woman your mother was. And," he choked on his words. "How much I loved her."
Chapter 12 The massive crowd huddled around the burial site to say their final goodbyes to Ivy Winthrop Crane. The gray sky seemed to fit the somber mood. Julian held baby Ivy close to him as his wife’s casket was lowered to the ground, trying to hold back tears. It had been so hard to break the news to his children, especially Ethan, who had always been very close to his mother. Finally the priest announced that it was time to say the final goodbyes. Julian leaned over the grave and prepared to toss a rose in- "Julian? Julian! Wake up!" "Mmph," Julian mumbled as he was awakened by Eve Russell shaking him. "Congratulations! You have a beautiful baby boy!" she said with a smile. "B-boy?" Julian stammered, confused. Was it all a dream? He looked out the window. "It’s not raining!" he exclaimed happily. Eve looked at him strangely. "Well…it…was…drizzling a bit-" Julian whirled around. "Where’s Ivy?!" Eve wondered why Julian was acting so strange. "She’s in room 118. Would you like to see her?" Julian didn’t even answer, he hugged Eve and bolted down the hall. His heart was beating with anticipation. He needed to see her, she just had to be alright. He approached room 118 and flung the door open. In the bed he saw Ivy lying lifeless in the bed. "IVYYYYY!!" he cried out. Ivy’s eyes flew open. "Julian!" she groaned. "Did you have to wake me up?" Julian heaved a huge sigh of relief. She was okay. She was alive. Julian ran to her bedside and did the last thing either of them would have ever expected. He cupped her face in his hands and pulled her into a hungry kiss. When their lips parted, Ivy looked at Julian with surprise. "J-Julian?" Julian wrapped his arms around her and held her. "Ivy, I was so afraid that I had lost you." Ivy was confused. She didn’t understand what brought on this change in Julian, but she didn’t question. Surprisingly, she found herself hugging him back, not wanting to let go. "I’m not going anywhere Julian," she whispered. Julian pulled away and caressed her cheek with his hand. Ivy looked into his eyes. This definitely wasn’t the same Julian, he had changed. "Julian," she whispered. "What’s going-" He put his finger to her lips. "Shhhh. For years I’ve been a selfish, unfeeling, jerk. Today I realized that I care deeply about you, Ivy. I’m sorry I never showed it. If I could relive to past 20 years I would in a heartbeat. But from now on I am a changed man. I love you." Ivy was sure her heart skipped a beat. Did those three words just come out of JULIAN’S mouth? She decided it was finally time to be honest with herself and with him. "I love you too Julian," she said with a smile. The two smiled at each other and leaned in to kiss. Unfortunately, they were interrupted by a very startled Eve. "Um excuse me," she said sheepishly. "Would you two like to see your baby?" "Yes! Please give him to me." Ivy reached for him. Eve handed Ivy the baby and left her and Julian alone. "Ohhh," Ivy gasped. "He’s so handsome. Look Julian." Julian looked proudly at his new son. Ivy giggled. "He looks like you Julian. Look! He’s doing that thing you do with your eyebrows!" Julian laughed. "A Crane through and through." He paused. "You know we still haven’t picked out a name." Ivy smiled. "Well I’ve been giving it some thought. Since your so bent upon giving him an alcohol name let’s compromise. How about Brandon? It sounds kind of like brandy," she said with a laugh. Julian nodded and smiled. "Brandon it is." "Now we just need a middle name." Julian grinned mischievously. "Why don’t we take dear Grace’s advice? Brandon Juvy Crane?" Both burst out laughing. Ivy pulled Julian’s face close to hers. "Now where were we?" They kissed. The one innocent kiss seemed to erase 20 years of heartache. The past was behind them, now they looked to the future. And the future looked bright.
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