Todd gingerly walked toward the room that housed his dearest, and truth be told, only friend. He paused for a moment leaning his head against the door hoping the wave of nausea would pass. Not sure if the nausea was from his healing stab wound or from the all too familiar feeling of hopelessness, Todd gathered his strength and opened the door.
     Once inside the room, Todd was taken aback by how even in a forced slumber, she remained beautiful. Todd lightly walked toward her bed as though he would ruin some magical dream she was immersed in. He sat in a chair near her bed he assumed was occupied by her sister Layla not too long ago.
     For several moments, the only sound that clung to the air was the beeping and whooshing of various monitoring devices. Todd slowly raised his hand to her cheek, slightly cupping it in hopes she would lean into it like she had done on so many other occaisions. He sadly let go of the breath he was holding when the only movement he felt was the trembling of his own hand.

     Feeling slightly defeated, Todd slumped into the chair closing his eyes as leaned his back. With his eyes still closed, Todd finally found his voice.
     "I should have taken you with me," he said in barely a whisper. He opened his eyes half expecting to see her sympathetic smile, but her face remained unchanged. In his head he heard her melodic voice say "Todd there was no way of knowing. You can't protect me from the big bad world."
"That's what you think," he said slightly under his breath.
"That's what who thinks?"
The voice violently shook Todd from his thoughts. He almost popped a stitch trying to see who interrupted his time with Evangeline.
"I asked you a question Manning," Christian said with all the machismo he could muster.
Turning his attention back to Evangeline, Todd replied "I'm not getting into it with you Vega so quit your grunting."
"Why don't you crawl back to the rock you've been hiding under Evangeline didn't need you pawing over her before and she certainly doesn't need it now." Christian said sternly.
"I wasn't pawing her," Todd said with quiet hurt in his voice. "But I can see we won't have anymore privacy, so I'll go...for now."
Todd leaned down and placed a tender kiss on Evangeline's forehead. This simple action lit a fuse of anger and jealousy in Christian.
In barely an audible voice, Todd said "I will be back for you. And I will find a way for you to return to me."

“Us? What about us? I thought we were ok. I thought we were good,” Todd said in a slightly panicked tone.
Evangeline reached over and embraced Todd’s face to both reassure him and calm her trembling nerves.
“No we were good. I mean we are good. I just… This is a lot harder than I thought it would be,” Evangeline said as she removed her hands from Todd’s face.
Todd caught hold of her hand before it was completely out of reach. He brought Evangeline’s palm to his lips leaving a gentle kiss that seared her skin.
As he slid Evangeline’s hand back to his cheek, Todd closed his eyes and whispered words of encouragement.
“Whatever you have to say, nothing changes”
“That’s the problem Todd. Something has already changed.”
Removing her hand from his cheek, but maintaining it in his grasp, Todd replied, “Is this change good or bad?”
“Both.”
“Why don’t you stop stalling counselor and tell me what’s on your mind?”
“I’m not stalling,” Evangeline said with a roll of her eyes.
“I think I have been in enough courtrooms to know when a lawyer is stalling,” Todd said with a smug grin.
Biting back a grin of her own, Evangeline replied “Just think about how that number could have been cut in half if you would have listened to any number of the lawyers you have employed.”
“Wouldn’t have mattered. None of them were as brilliant as you. They weren’t as beautiful either.”
Evangeline bowed her head slightly, hoping to hide the flush of embarrassment and passion his compliment brought to her cheeks.
“Now counselor if you’re done beating around the bush, I would love to hear about this good and bad change you’ve experienced.”
Deciding to handle this like a cross examination, Evangeline steeled her heart to ask a very dangerous question.
“What is the status of your relationship with Blair?”
Confusion marred Todd’s beautiful features.
“What does my relationship with Blair have to do with this change of yours?”
“Todd could you just answer the question please,” Evangeline said with a sigh.
Feeling slightly annoyed that Evangeline seemed to be gearing up for another round of ‘You’ll always love Blair; Todd released her hand and moved away from the bed.
“How many times do I have to tell you that what Blair and I had died when I saw her humping Dr. Strangelove. I mean sure for a while there I thought there was hope, but then she went and played hide the paintbrush with Barney Rubble at Llantano Mountain. The only reason I talk to Blair is my kids.”
On the brink of losing control, Evangeline forged ahead with her questions.
“What makes this time so different from all those other times you and Blair broke things off? How do I know that you guys won’t be planning your fifth trip down the aisle in the next six months?”
Growing frustrated with Evangeline’s questions regarding Blair, Todd began slamming the cheesecake and flatware back into the bag.
“What are you doing?” Evangeline asked with a fear tinged voice.
“Leaving,” Todd said without looking at Evangeline.
“Leaving? Why are you leaving?” It was now Evangeline’s turn to panic.
“Because I came here to spend time with you, not to be grilled about my so called undying love for Blair.” Todd was now staring daggers at Evangeline, his hurt evident in those baby blues.
“Todd I’m sorry. I just…,” Evangeline tried to get the words out as the steel around her heart began to falter.
Softening a little, Todd say back down on the bed.
“You’re starting to freak me out here. I mean first we’re talking about a good and bad change you’re going through, then you go into prosecutor mode and start questioning me about Blair. Just talk to me please,” Todd pleaded.
Smiling a little, Evangeline responded, “How did you pick up on the shift. Not even Layla notice when I do that.”
“How many times have I seen you in court? Your voice always gets a little deeper when you are cross examining people. Never thought I would be on the receiving end of it though.”
Bowing her head slightly, Evangeline struggled to keep the tears at bay.
“Todd I’m so sorry for speaking to you that way. I just needed to know if I stood a chance”
“Stood a chance? Evangeline what are you talking about?”
“I just… Oh to hell with words.”
Evangeline reached over and caressed the nape of Todd’s neck. She slowly pulled him forward until their lips met. Evangeline’s lips massaged Todd’s until a second later she felt him respond. Todd slid his hand into Evangeline’s hair gently massaging her scalp. Their tender kiss soon turned hungry. Evangeline devoured Todd’s lips like it was her first meal in days. Soon Todd greedily claimed Evangeline’s tongue as his own. The dizzying need for oxygen forced the two apart.
Evangeline and Todd could only stare at one another. Their breathless pants were the only sounds in the room.
Hoping to lighten the mood, Todd said “So that’s some change you’ve had.”
“Yeah it is. And all it took was a coma,” Evangeline said with a smile.
Placing his hand tenderly to Evangeline’s cheek, Todd said “So what does this mean? We’ve kissed before only to have you shove us back into the friend category. I’m not sure if I can be accommodating if that’s what you want.”
“Well,” Evangeline started as she leaned toward Todd, “Why don’t you unpack that cheesecake and we will talk about what this means.”
“Now it all makes sense,” Todd said with a grin. “You kissed me to get to the cheesecake.”
Evangeline couldn’t help but to laugh. As she closed the distance between the two, Evangeline said, “Why Mr. Manning you know me so well.”
“Yes counselor I do,” Todd said as their lips met for another toe curling kiss.
As their kiss ended, Todd laid his forehead on Evangeline’s and said, “This won’t be easy. There are people who absolutely hate my guts.”
“I don’t care. I want you. Dirty deeds and all.”
“You say that now, but…,” Todd started.
“But nothing. Don’t doubt us or me before we even get started. I’m not Blair,” Evangeline said hurt evident in her voice.
“I would never insult you like that. I just don’t want to rush into anything.”
“Todd I’m not asking you to marry me. Just to give whatever this is a shot.”
“Fair enough. So, how about that cheesecake?” Todd said with a smile.
“Finally!” Evangeline said throwing her head back.
Laughing, Todd unpacked the cheesecake yet again.
Todd raised a fork full of cheesecake and said, “To us.”
Evangeline raised her fork in return and said “To us.”

Todd and Evangeline spent the rest of the evening adjusting to the new shift in their relationship. Between bites of gourmet cheesecake, they exchanged stories and tender kisses. Whenever Todd spoke about a particularly nasty memory of Peter Manning, Evangeline was there to support him. She cried for him when he wouldn’t allow himself to.
As the evening hours gave way to early morning light, Todd and Evangeline both found themselves fighting sleep.
“I should really leave so you can get some rest,” Todd said as he pulled Evangeline tighter to his chest.
Although neither is sure how it happened, Todd and Evangeline found themselves lying in each other’s arms. At first they were merely facing each other arms length apart, but as the night wore on they quickly closed the gap.
Openly yawning, Evangeline snuggled closer to Todd tightening her grip on his shirt.
“Not yet. Can’t you stay a little long?” Evangeline asked as she entwined her legs with Todd’s.
Todd had noticed earlier in the night that Evangeline did this whenever he would suggest it was time for him to leave. Not that he objected to the intimate contact.
“You know I’m going to have to leave eventually,” Todd said through lidded eyes.
“I know but why the rush?”
“Trust me when I say I’m not rushing, but I’ll make you a deal. If you go to sleep right now, I won’t leave until your nurse comes to get you for your first round of tests.”
“I think I can live with that. Will you bring me some breakfast?” Evangeline said in a hazy voice.
“Well aren’t we getting spoiled?” Todd said in a teasing tone.
“I’m not spoiled. I just really hate hospital food.”
“Okay I’ll bring you breakfast. Now will you please get some rest?”
“You’re really bossy,” Evangeline said barely finishing her sentence.
“And you’re really stubborn.”
Expecting a snappy comeback, Todd was a little surprised to see Evangeline fast asleep. Chuckling slightly at the sight of Evangeline asleep with her mouth open, Todd let her soft snores lull him to sleep.
A few hours later, Todd opened his eyes and realized the previous night wasn’t a dream. For the first time in a long while, he slept peacefully without nightmares. He attributed that to the woman who lay snuggled against him.
Todd’s early morning thoughts were interrupted by a soft, but forceful knock on the door. Believing it be the morning nurse, Todd made no move to extract himself from Evangeline’s arms.
“Evangeline sweetheart I know it’s early but…”
The words died on Cris’ lips as he took in the scene before him. Evangeline, the woman he loved, was in the arms of the town psychopath. How dare he put his hands on my woman, Cris thought to himself.
Cris stormed the bed and snatched Todd up by his collar, violently waking Evangeline in the process.
“What the hell do you think you’re doing Manning?” Cris screamed as he slammed Todd against a wall.
“Get your goddamn hands off of me!” Todd yelled as he pushed Cris away from him.
“Christian what the hell are you doing,” Evangeline said as she tried to shake a growing migraine.
“I came here so we could finish our talk and I found this sick son of a bitch lying in bed with you. He must have snuck in here while you were asleep,” Cris said seething.
“I didn’t sneak in anywhere I was invited,” Todd said taking a challenging step forward.
“Yeah right. Evangeline called you up first thing in the morning and invited you to get into bed with her. You’re delusional Manning,” Cris said following Todd’s lead and taking a challenging step of his own.
“Christian will you please calm down,” Evangeline said coming between the two men hoping to regain some peace in the room.
“How am I suppose to calm down when this bastard was trying to have his way with you!”
“Vega you no clue what’s going on here so why don’t you crawl back to your cave.”
“I know what I saw Manning and I should smash your face in,” Cris yelled taking another step forward.
“That’s enough Christian! You have no right to barge into my room and hurl accusations,” Evangeline said trying to ignore the spinning of the room.
“Evangeline that pervert had his hands all over you. Who knows what would have happened if I didn’t show up,” Cris said trying to reign in his anger.
“Oh give me a break,” Todd said with a roll of his eyes.
“Why are you even here Manning?” Cris said feeling his temper rise again.
“Todd is here because I want him here.”
“Fine but why was he in the bed with you?”
“Because Todd spent the night with me.”
The weight of Evangeline’s words knocked the breath out of Cris’ lungs. He closed his eyes as images of Todd and Evangeline being intimate danced across his mind. He slowly opened his eyes to see Todd standing next Evangeline with his hand on the small of her back.
“So you finally did it. You finally conned your way into her pants. How did you do it? Did you use your poor dead son again?” Cris said with a malice drenched voice.
Taking two swift steps forward, Todd grabbed Cris by his collar.
“You son of bitch! Don’t you ever speak of any of my children you got that!”
“Todd let him go,” Evangeline said as she rested her hands on his forearms.
Todd reluctantly released Cris and backed away, never breaking eye contact. He went and sat in a chair next to the bed.
“How dare you say something like that,” Evangeline said with a mixture of anger, hurt, and disappointment in her voice.
“I dare because that man is the master of manipulation. He conned you before and he’s doing it now. I won’t stand by and let him come between us again.”
“Us? Christian there is no us and there hasn’t been for a long time.”
Confusion begins to creep across Cris’ features as replayed the conversation between Layla and Evangeline.
“I thought you said you would love to nothing more than to move on with your life.”
“How did you know I said that?”
Realizing he was busted, Cris decided to just come clean.
“Yesterday I came to visit you and I overheard you and Layla talking. You were talking about moving on with you life and I thought that life included me.”
“Christian you had no right to eavesdrop on my private conversation.”
“I know and I’m sorry for that,” Cris said as he reached over and grabbed Evangeline’s hand.
Uncomfortable with where this could lead, Todd stood up and made his presence known.
“Yeah well Evangeline already knew you were sorry.”
“Shut it Manning.”
“Wow that was almost a full sentence. I guess Hooked on Phonics really does work.”
“Todd please,” Evangeline said as she turned to look at him.
Pulling her hand from Cris’ grip, Evangeline walked toward Todd.
“Could you give us a few minutes please. Christian and I have some things we need to talk about.”
I don’t know if I want to leave you alone with Speed Gonzales,” Todd said with a nod toward Cris.
“I’ll be fine,” Evangeline said trying to suppress a smile.
“Besides you promised me breakfast. And I’m sure you have a ton of calls from the Sun to return. So go home, get cleaned up and when you are finished come back and we can have some breakfast.”
Although still uncomfortable with leaving Cris alone with Evangeline, Todd found solace in the fact that she wanted him to return.
“That’s a very good argument counselor. I will see you later for breakfast,” Todd said as he leaned forward and placed a delicate kiss on Evangeline’s lips.
The contact of their lips was so brief that Cris, who was staring intently, wasn’t sure if the kiss actually took place. That didn’t stop his jealously from rearing up.
Todd gathered his things from the chair and nightstand and began to make his way out of the room. Before he fully crossed the threshold, Todd turned around and headed for Evangeline. Deciding his earlier kiss was not fulfilling, Todd embraced Evangeline’s lips.
Slightly startled by Todd’s boldness, Evangeline hesitated in returning the kiss. The hesitation lasted only a second before Evangeline was lost in the warm caress of Todd’s lips. They were startled out of the kiss by the low mumbles of a forgotten Cris.
“Just wanted to give you a proper good bye,” Todd said as he walked back towards the door.
“Vega, you’ve been a jackass like always.”
“Drop dead Manning.”
“After that kiss it would be a happy death,” Todd laughed as he made his way to the elevators.
Once Todd had left the room, Cris turned a cold hard glare to Evangeline.
“I think you owe me an explanation,” Cris said as he folded his arms across his chest.
“Cris I don’t owe you anything.”
“Oh I think you do. I come here to give us another chance and I find you in bed with Todd.”
“I didn’t ask you for another chance. You just assumed that’s what I wanted.”
“Evangeline we love each other. What we had you could never have with Manning.”
“That’s not such a bad thing.”
“What the hell does that mean?” Cris said his jaw clenching with anger.
“It means what we had was good but it wasn’t great. Our relationship didn’t fulfill me the way I wanted.”
“I thought I made you happy. I gave you everything I had to offer and you’re telling me it wasn’t enough?”
“I’m telling you that we both deserve a shot a real happiness.”
“I had real happiness with you. Evangeline I love you and you love me. I know this thing you have with Manning is just to punish me for sleeping with Blair. I understand and I know we can get past it.”
Outraged that Cris would think she would use someone for vengeance, Evangeline began to prepare for the day ahead so she could give herself time to get a handle on her anger.
After a few deep breaths, Evangeline turned and faced Cris.
“Cris what we had is over. There is no going back for us. I hope in time you can understand that and we can be friends.”
Fighting the lump in his throat, Cris simply shook his head.
“No Evangeline. I won’t accept that this is the end. I won’t lose to Manning.”
“This isn’t about winning or losing Christian.”
“Then what is it about? Do you want me to prove how much I love you?”
“I want you to accept that this is the end.”
“I’m sorry but I can’t. I’m going to do everything I can to show you that we are meant to be together.”
Cris quickly crossed the room and grabbed Evangeline by the shoulders. He slammed his lips upon hers in a rough kiss. He forced his tongue so far into her mouth she nearly gagged. Cris’ stench of paint thinner and sweat made Evangeline sick to her stomach.
Finally releasing the grip he had on Evangeline, Cris grinned like the village idiot.
“See, I told you we weren’t over. I’ll be back later with a surprise.”
Before Evangeline could finally regain her composure, Cris happily walked out of the room.
Exhausted from the gauntlet of emotions she had run, Evangeline flopped on to the bed.
‘It’s going to take a miracle to keep those two from killing each other,’ Evangeline thought out loud. Deciding to worry about that later, Evangeline headed to the bathroom to shower and prepare for physical therapy.
At least the day couldn’t throw her any more curve balls. Could it?

After a turbulent start to the day, Evangeline’s morning went smoothly. Her physical therapist, Molly, was amazed at how far she had come in such a short amount of time. Molly was so impressed that she offered to recommend to Dr. Glasser that Evangeline’s release date be moved up. Hearing that tidbit helped to take Evangeline’s mind off of the earlier situation with Christian.
As Evangeline returned to her room, she was greeted by the alluring scent of hazelnut coffee with a hint of cinnamon and Belgium waffles topped with whip cream and fresh strawberries.
“That man does spoil you,” Miranda, the head nurse, said as she helped Evangeline into the bed.
“Just a bit,” Evangeline said with a sly grin.
“He even left you a note. It’s probably full of sweet nothings,” Miranda said handing it to Evangeline.
“More like smart ass remarks.”
“Dear Evangeline,
I hope you enjoy your brunch. There was booze, but Dr. Glasser confiscated the champagne. Sorry I can’t enjoy this feast with you, but tell Randy I said saddle up, she works hard. See you later this evening.
-Todd”
Evangeline’s face beamed as she reread the note. She carefully refolded it and placed it in the top drawer of the nightstand.
“Well Randy it appears that Todd spoils you also.”
“That jerk. He promised he wouldn’t tell anyone about that nickname,” Miranda said with a fake scowl. Miranda’s childhood nickname had slipped out when Todd first began visiting Evangeline. He told her she wasn’t snotty enough to be a Miranda. She agreed and told him she often went by Randy growing up.
“What do you mean he spoils me also,” Miranda said shaking her self from the memory.
“He insisted that you join me. He wouldn’t take no for an answer and neither will I.”
“Well I wouldn’t want to offend you or Todd. And its not often a member of the hospital board brings you breakfast,” Miranda said as she settled in at the moveable table.
“No it isn’t, but I think Todd may have a bit of a soft spot for you,” Evangeline said as she began pouring them coffee.
“That’s because I was the only one besides Layla and Dr. Glasser that was bold enough to tell him when he started stinking up the place,” Miranda said as she piled their plates with waffles and strawberries.
“Well Todd does appreciate honesty.”
“That he does. So do you want to talk about Vega and his sneak attack earlier?” Miranda asked as she began cutting into her waffles.
Although Evangeline enjoyed Miranda’s company and thought of her as a friend, she wasn’t sure if she wanted to talk about something so personal.
“So are you seeing anyone?” Evangeline evaded as she cut into her stack of waffles.
“Well that was a big ole mind your own business if I ever heard one,” Miranda replied with a smile.
Horrified that she may have offended Miranda, Evangeline began to back track.
“I didn’t mean it like that. It’s just that so much has happened and I’ve barely had time to process it all…”
Evangeline’s words came out in a flurry of manic gestures and nervous laughter.
“Whoa there Vange. I was only kidding. But from the sound of thins Captain Caveman really got under your skin,” Miranda said as she scooped up a heap of whip cream with her waffle.
“Not you too,” Evangeline sighed heavily.
“Hey I’m sorry but the name fits. The man walks around beating on everything in sight trying to get his way. He is rude and has intimidated most of my staff to the point where they duck and cover if they see him coming.”
“I’ll admit that Christian can be a little over zealous at times, but he means well.”
“Over zealous my eye! That guy’s got a hair trigger temper. I don’t know much about him but he gives off bad juju.”
“You guys wouldn’t be talking about any one I know would you?”
Evangeline and Miranda were both amazed to see the topic of their discussion standing in the door way.
“Christian. What are you doing here?” Evangeline said trying to recover from her initial shock.
“I told you I would be back and here I am,” Cris said with a goofy grin.
“Yes Vange, he is here. Again. And without so much as a phone call or a simple knock on the door,” Miranda said as she gathered the remainder of their breakfast.
“Is there something you need to say to me?” Cris said taking a defensive tone.
“As a matter of fact…”
“Miranda could you give Cris and me a few minutes alone please?” Evangeline pleaded, interrupting what would have been a major tongue lasing from the fiery southern.
“Sure thing Vange,” Miranda said barely removing her eyes from Christian.
“Beep me if things get a little too over zealous for you.”
And with that Miranda carried the breakfast tray from the room without so much as a second glance for Christian.
“What the hell is her problem?” Chris asked visibly irritated.
“Randy, I mean Miranda, is just a little over protective. Especially after that scene this morning.”
“Yeah well I didn’t come back to rehash our earlier disagreement. I came to give you your surprise.”
“Christian what happen earlier was a lot more than a simple disagreement.”
“Evangeline I don’t want to get into that with you right now. Just open your gift.”
Christian handed Evangeline a soft blue velvet ring box.
“Oh Christian I don’t think this is such a good idea,” Evangeline said her wyes never leaving the box.
“Just open the box,” Cris said slightly giddy.
Hesitantly Evangeline opened the box and let go of the breath she unknowingly held.
“Christian it’s beautiful.”
Inside the box was a simple gold necklace with a single diamond hanging from it.
“I was going to give it to you for your birthday, but other things got in the way.”
Feeling a twinge of guilt, Evangeline closed the box and handed it back to Cris.
“Christian I can’t accept this from you,” Evangeline said in an apologetic tone.
“Why not?” Christian said with a mixture of anger and hurt.
“Because accepting this necklace would be like making an unspoken promise that you and I will be together.”
“Is that so wrong?”
“Yes. Especially when it’s something I know I don’t want.”
“Evangeline you’ve been awake barely a month. Things are still muddled in your brain. And to top it all off, you’ve been letting Manning confuse you.”
“Excuse me?” Evangeline interrupted, insulted by Cris’ words.
“I just mean Manning is trying to manipulate the situation so that he can take advantage.”
“Take advantage?” Evangeline’s voice raised several notches as she felt her anger grow.
Cris didn’t seem to notice and continued on as though he had said nothing wrong.
“Evangeline you’re very weak and vulnerable right now, and Manning is trying to prey on that. I won’t let him use you,” Cris said as he reached for Evangeline’s hand.
Evangeline snatched her hand away in disgust.
“How dare you? You have no right to say those things to me,” Evangeline said in a forceful whisper.
Put off by Evangeline’s chilly reception, Cris leaned away from her and raised an angry eyebrow.
“Evangeline I love you and I’m just looking out for your best interest. Manning has been weaseling his way into your life for a few years. He is the reason we broke up.”
A sarcastic smile began to spread across Evangeline’s face.
“Congratulations Christian. You have finally said something that has some truth to it. I was so desperate to have someone tell me I love you that I didn’t care who said it. I ignored the longing in my heart. You always said the words, but I never really felt them.”
“Are you saying you never love me?” Cris asked fighting back emotion.
“I’m saying I was never in love with you,” Evangeline said with raw emotion showing in her voice.
Christian walked away from Evangeline needing to collect his thoughts. His emotions ran the gauntlet from hurt to disappointment and finally to his favorite anger.
“I can’t believe you,” Christian said once he finally turned around to face Evangeline.
“I came here to pour my heart out to you. I was ready to jump through any and every hoop for you. And yet there you sit on your high horse saying you never loved me.”
“Christian I did love you on some level, but I wasn’t in love with you.”
“But you are in love with Manning is that it? You just woke up one morning and decided to throw away everything we had. Everything we could have had. And for what? Scum like manning?!”
By now Christian’s is getting louder and louder.
“Christian please you’re making a scene,” Evangeline said as she fidgeted with the blankets.
“Oh so you don’t want anyone to know? Come Evangeline let’s spread the good news. Let’s tell the whole world how you have become Manning’s whore,” Cris said as he let his rage fuel his words.
All of the good feelings Evangeline had for Christian evaporated in that moment.
“Get out,” Evangeline said scraping together the last of her emotional strength.
“Tell me Vange do you enjoy having his hands all over you?” Christian asked as he used his arms to keep Evangeline in place on the bed.
“Christian I said leave. We have nothing else to say to each other.” As she spoke, Evangeline searched for the call button.
Evangeline looked calm, but inside she was losing control.
“I there is a lot more to be said,” Cris said as he moved to caress Evangeline’s face.
“And I say this conversation is over.”
Christian turned around and came face to face with a very pissed off Todd Manning.

“Well look who it is Vange. Your rapist in shining armor,” Christian said with a grad gesture of his arms.
Todd’s hackles rose when Christian called him a rapist in front of Evangeline. He hated having his past thrown in her face.
“I think Evangeline has made it clear you have overstayed your welcome, so why don’t you go and fail at a third career,” Todd said in the most even tone he could manage.
Ignoring Todd’s comment, Christian remained seated on Evangeline’s bed with his hand on her upper thigh.
“So Evangeline has told me the good news,” Christian said as he rubbed Evangeline’s thigh.
Feeling increasingly uncomfortable with Christian’s physical contact, Evangeline began to push his hand away.
“And what good news would that be?” Todd said moving closer to get a better look at Evangeline. He wanted to make sure she was okay before he broke every bone in Christian’s hand.
“Don’t play dumb Manning. Evangeline told me how she is throwing away a chance at a normal, stable, and happy life to lay in bed with you and your fleas.”
“Christian I understand that you are hurt, but all of this uncalled for,” Evangeline said grabbing a hold of Cris’ hand, finally freeing her thigh from his grasp.
Looking at their joined hands seemed to fuel Cris’ anger.
“Of course you understand. I mean McBain did leave you to roast for Natalie.”
Tears immediately sprang to Evangeline’s eyes as she snatched her hand away.
Todd crossed the room in a step and a half and grabbed Cris by the collar and threw him violently to the ground.
“You listen tome you son of a bitch. You are going to get up and walk your sorry ass out of that door and out of Evangeline’s life.”
Todd’s breath was labored and raggedy from his building rage toward Christian.
Christian began to laugh like a hyena as he lay in the middle of the room,
Evangeline and Todd traded curious looks as Christian’s laughter began to subside. He stood up and made a grand showing of dusting himself off.
“What the hell is so funny?” Todd said as he stood between Christian and Evangeline like the Berlin Wall.
“This whole twisted situation. I mean come on Manning. How long do you think it’s going to be before you go back to Blair?”
“Blair and I are over,” Todd said in a cold voice.
“Over? There is no over you two Manning. Just a never ending cycle of I love you I hate you.”
“You’re wrong. I love Evangeline more than I thought I could ever love someone. I don’t know why I’m explaining myself to you. I suggest you leave now because my patience is wearing thin.”
“I know you still love me Evangeline. I can feel it. And when you’re done spreading your legs…”
Christian’s sentence was interrupted by a left hook from Todd. He quickly followed the hook with a blow to Christian’s ribs.
Staggered but not beaten, Christian tackled Todd to the floor.
“Oh god Todd!” Evangeline screamed as she rushed from the bed.
Christian straddled Todd squeezing the life out of him.
“You don’t deserve her! You don’t deserve to live!” Christian screamed over and over again. His voice was ripe with rage and malice.
“Christian please let him go!” Evangeline said through tears as she tugged at his shirt.
The sound of Evangeline pleading seem to egg Christian on. The more she cried, the tighter Christian’s grip became. He openly enjoyed the various shades of blue and purple that danced over Todd’s features.
Not knowing what else to do, Evangeline picked up the vase of cheap roses and smashed Christian over the head.
The blow shocked Christian enough that his grip on Todd loosened. Evangeline was relieved to hear the coughing and gagging of Todd trying to catch his breath.
“Evangeline how could you do that?” Christian said as he staggered toward her.
“Christian you were out of control. I had to stop you before…”
“SHUT UP!! Just shut your mouth!” Christian shouted as he grabbed Evangeline by the wrists.
“Christian let go you’re hurting me,” Evangeline said in a strained voice.
“I love you. We can still be happy. Why don’t you see that I’m what’s best!”
By now Christian is shaking Evangeline and backing her into a corner.
Christian was so consumed with his madness that he didn’t notice Todd standing up.
Although he felt like his lungs were burning a hole through his chest, Todd began to make his way toward Christian and Evangeline.
“I suggest you get your goddamn hands off of her,” Todd said in a hoarse whisper.
Evangeline’s eyes shone with a mixture of fear, happiness, and unshed tears. Todd fixed his gaze on her and felt all of her emotions run through him.
“You and what army is going to make me,” Christian said as he maintained his grip on Evangeline’s wrists.
“This army darlin’.”
Both Evangeline and Christian turned to see Miranda standing in the door way with two beefy security guards.
“Either you let Vange go or I let my pit bulls have a nice treat,” Miranda said in a voice drenched with false sweetness.
Seeing that he was clearly out muscled, Christian released Evangeline and backed away with hands raised.
“Now if you gentlemen would be so kind as to escort Mr. Vega into the hallway and keep him company as he waits for Llanview’s finest,” Miranda instructed as the two mountain of men grabbed Christian’s arms and walked him to the door.
“I still love you. This is just a bump in the road for us. I’ll see you soon honey,” Christian yelled over his shoulder as he was being led out of the room.
Evangeline began to shiver as Christian’s words rang in her ears.
Todd rushed to her side and began to stroke and kiss her hair.
“Are you ok? Did he hurt you?” Todd said in between kisses.
“I’m fine, but look at your neck. He almost killed you.”
“It’s nothing. That was by far the easiest near death moment I’ve ever had,” Todd said with a crooked grin.
“I can’t believe you’re making jokes at a time like this,” Evangeline said as she gently caressed Todd’s neck.
“You know there is a professional in the room if you guys wanna know my humble opinion,” Miranda said reminding Todd and Evangeline of her presence.
“Randy you do know how to make a hell of an entrance,” Todd said as he walked Evangeline back to her bed.
“Yes well I have always had a flair for the dramatics,” Miranda said as she looked over the bruising and swelling around Todd’s neck.
“Well you’re running your mouth so that’s a good sign there is no permanent damage to you vocal chords or larynx. Other than sounding like you gargle with Jack Daniels and cigarettes for a while, you’ll be fine.”
“Thank god,” Evangeline said with a heavy sigh.
“What about her?” Todd said as he began to rub her back.
“Todd I’m fine really,” Evangeline said while linking her hand with his.
“I think I’ll be the judge of that,” Miranda said as she took Evangeline’s wrists into her hands.
Evangeline hissed at the slight contact.
“I don’t think they’re broken but I’m going to get some X-rays to be sure. Until then I’m going to get you guys some ice to help with the swelling.”
Once Miranda left the room, Evangeline collapsed into Todd’s arms and began to shake.
“Hey hey. What’s this all about?” Todd said in a soothing voice.
“I was just so scared. The last time I saw Christian that out of control he was beating up Vince’s lackey.”
“Yeah well I’m a lot tougher than that guy.”
“I know, but I saw your face change colors and I thought this it. We’re over before we started,” Evangeline said her voice cracking with emotion.
“Hey let’s not dwell on that. We’re not over. We’re right her together.”
“Yeah. Yeah we are.”
Todd and Evangeline spent the rest of the evening just staring at each other, but Christian’s words still haunted them both.

“Christian please stop!”
“He doesn’t deserve you! He doesn’t deserve to live!”
Todd awoke in a cold sweat. He looked around startled before realizing he was still in Evangeline’s room. It had been almost a week since Christian nearly strangled the life from him and tried God knows what with Evangeline. It wasn’t Todd’s near death that was giving him nightmares. It was the sound of Evangeline’s anguished cries that had him tossing and turning.
He looked down beside him where Evangeline lay unaware of the torment plaguing Todd’s heart. He meant it when he said he loved her, but in the back of his mind Christian’s words rang true. Todd could think of nothing he had done in the past that would grant him such a reward as Evangeline’s love. He knew it was only a matter of time before Evangeline would realize her mistake and leave. Todd was more than sure of this; he had already made peace with it. He was just going to enjoy the time he got holding her in his arms.
Sensing Todd’s torment, Evangeline snaked her arms around his waist.
“Stop it,” she said with her eyes still closed.
“Stop what?” Todd said with a furrowed brow.
“Stop thinking. I can hear the gears in your head turning,” Evangeline said with a smile.
“I’m sorry I didn’t mean for you to hear the hamster running up there.”
“Are we going to talk about it?” Evangeline asked blinking away sleep.
“Talk about what?” Todd asked as he stood up and stretched.
He would have to talk to the hospital board about getting more comfortable beds in the rooms. Although he loved beginning and ending the day with Evangeline in his arms, it was starting to take a toll on his back.
“Whatever had you tossing and turning,” Evangeline said as she pulled her knees up to her chest.
“So tomorrow’s the big day?” Todd said as he stretched once more.
“Don’t change the subject. I know you aren’t sleeping well, so you may as well spill it,” Evangeline said with a soft smile.
“I’m fine,” Todd said as he leaned down to kiss Evangeline on the top of her head.
Evangeline pulled away from Todd’s kiss and locked eyes with him.
“Don’t do that,” Evangeline said slightly frustrated.
“I’m sorry, you’re right. I should know better than to try and kiss you with morning breath,” Todd said as he sat facing Evangeline his hand tenderly stroking her knee.
“When are you going to stop avoiding the elephant in the room?”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Todd said his fingers at play on Evangeline’s knee.
Evangeline reached out and stilled his movements.
“Todd,” Evangeline said as she laced her fingers with his.
Todd made no movement to look Evangeline in the eyes.
“Todd please don’t shut me out,” Evangeline said slightly squeezing Todd’s hand.
Todd lifted his other hand and began to gently caress Evangeline’s cheek.
“I need to get going. I have a big welcome home article about you I need to finish for tomorrow’s front page.”
Evangeline closed her eyes and shook her head frustrated.
Todd rose from the bed and grabbed his jacket that was lying on a near by chair.
“Christian was wrong.”
Evangeline’s words rooted Todd to the spot.
“What?” Todd whispered while hesitantly looking over his shoulder.
“I said Christian is wrong,” Evangeline repeated as she slid off the bed.
Her leg muscles weren’t as strong as she would like, so Evangeline took slow measured steps.
“I know his words are keeping you awake at night, but you don’t have to worry I’m not going any where. I’m exactly where I want to be.”
Todd remained with his back to Evangeline trying to process what he had heard.
“Todd look at me please,” Evangeline pleaded as she placed her hand on his elbow.
Todd turned and stared into those warm chocolate orbs hoping to be seen as a man worth loving. And there in Evangeline’s eyes he saw her soul laid bare.
“You love me,” Todd’s words came out more as a statement than a question.
Feeling very shy and vulnerable, Evangeline bowed her head and whispered, “Yes.”
Todd’s hands found their way to Evangeline’s face. He caressed her cheeks with his thumbs, then slowly leaned down and kissed her full lips. Evangeline sighed her pleasure to Todd’s kiss. Todd moaned in response to Evangeline’s enjoyment of the kiss.
Breaking the kiss, Todd rested his forehead on Evangeline’s. He took deep breaths trying to steady his breathing and calm his nerves.
“This could be the biggest mistake of your life,” Todd said as he brushed his face against hers.
“This is my mistake to make. Why are you fighting this?” Evangeline said as she pulled away to look him in the eyes.
“I’m not, I just know how this could end,” Todd said slightly broken.
Stepping out of Todd’s embrace, Evangeline squared her shoulders and raised her chin in defiance.
“And how is this going to end?”
“Evangeline, I didn’t mean…”
“No Todd you tell me since you have all the answers. How is this going to end?” Evangeline said in a voice racked with emotion.
Seeing the unshed tears glisten in Evangeline’s eyes tore Todd’s heart from his chest.
“Evangeline I don’t know if or when or how this will end exactly. I just know that every day I struggle with this darkness and I just don’t want that to touch you.”
“Todd I know about all of the things you have done in the past and I don’t care. Stop trying to warn me and just love me.”
Evangeline’s words washed over Todd like a cold shower. Todd closed his eyes as her words warmed a part of his heart he had long thought dead.
“I can’t…I just…” Todd fought to gather his thoughts.
Blowing out a frustrated breath, Todd grasped Evangeline’s face in his hands.
“I’m yours. My heart, my soul, my mind, and my body. Evangeline I’m all yours,” Todd said in a strained voice.
Tears began to spill through Evangeline’s closed eyes.
“Its all I ever wanted since I came back from the dead. I mean from the time Spencer killed me, not this whole Chicago mess,” Todd said with a smirk.
“You always were good at making inappropriate jokes Manning,” Evangeline said with a bright smile.
“Tell me you love me,” Todd said as his tone became somber.
“I,” Evangeline said and kissed his left eye.
“Love,” then she kissed his right eye.
“You,” finally she placed a tender kiss on his lips.
Todd’s hands went to the nape of Evangeline’s neck. He gently ran his fingers up into her scalp. Breaking the kiss, Evangeline smiled against his lips.
“I thought you had an article to finish.”
“Its ok, I know the owner pretty well. I mean he is an ok guy to be a bastard.”
“What am I going to do with you?” Evangeline said around a giggle.
“I could think of a couple of things,” Todd said in a husky voice that sent a flurry of shivers down her spine.
“And on that note I think its time for you to go,” Evangeline said backing away from Todd.
“Oh come one. Things were starting to get good,” Todd said wrapping his arms around her waist.
“Why don’t you finish up this wonderful article about me, then come back and take me home.”
“That’s perfect. By the time I make my way back here your surprise should be ready.”
“What surprise?” Evangeline asked hesitantly.
“Don’t worry I have take care of everything,” Todd said as he gave Evangeline a quick peck and bounced out the door.
“That’s what I’m afraid of,” Evangeline smiled to herself.