Part 1
Chapter 1
Ashley layed wide awake in bed one night listening to the quiet tick of the clock on the wall across the room. She layed in bed alone as usual and she didn't dare move because the other side of the bed layed stone cold from lack of body heat. She sighed, glancing at her bedside alarm clock and noticed it was a quarter after midnight. As she wiped away the tears that streamed down her cheeks, she heard the front door open and then shut quietly. She listened to the familiar footsteps walk down the hall and suddenly the room filled with the soft glow of the hallway light. A shadow stood in the doorway for a moment and then David stepped into the the room, closing the door behind him. Her back was to the door so he didn't notice that she was still awake. Instead Ashley heard him slip out of his clothes and then slide into the bed next to her. He didn't try to pull her close, instead he only turned his back and stared into the dark room until sleep engulfed him, leaving Ashley to muffle her sobs in her pillow.
The next morning when Ashley woke, she found the spot next to her empty. She shook her head and then climbed out of bed, slipping into her black silk robe. She opened the door and stepped into the silent hallway, listening for sounds in the rest of the apartment. As she walked towards the kitchen, she heard David rustle the morning paper and then she heard his coffee cup clang against the kitchen table. She walked soundlessly into the room and poured herself a cup of coffee before sitting down across from him at the table.
The silence between them was screaming and finally Ashley couldn't take it any longer, so she asked, "What's on your schedule for the day?"
"I have a ten o'clock meeting with my agent, then a twelve o'clock shoot, and then the rest of the day I'll be on the set." he replied without even looking at her. "If you need to reach me you can call my cell." Ashley sighed shaking her head, and then sipped her coffee as the silence resumed. She stared at the paper willing him to look at her.
When he didn't speak she said, "David, I want a divorce!" Ashley sat ridged in her chair and waited for some kind of reaction, but she got nothing. "David," she said. "Did you hear me?" David slowly lowered the paper to the table and looked at her for several moments not saying a word.
"What brought this on?" he asked finally.
"David things aren't the same," she frowned. "They haven't been for a long time..."
"What are you talking about Ash?" he questioned, his eyes softening. Ashley's heart leaped when he called her Ash. It had been months, if not years sinced he'd used that name and she'd really missed it. It was just another example of how things were different.
"David....the connections not there anymore." she explained. "When was the last time you told me you loved me?" she asked. "I can't even remember the last time, and you used to tell me that all the time."
"I'm sorry," he said reaching for her hand. "But you know how busy things can get..."
"You're right," she agreed removing her hand from his and placing it in her lap. "But that's not the point David, it's just not working. We hardly know each other anymore. When you're here I'm not, and when I'm here you aren't. I'm tired of going to bed alone and I'm tired of listening to the silence that speaks volumes. I just don't feel like you love me anymore!"
"Ashley," he sighed. "I don't know what to say..."
"Don't say anything!" she said trying to hold onto her self control. "Things have been over between us for awhile now, so let's accept it and move on while we can without hating one another."
"I won't accept it," he said angrily standing from the table. "I won't give you up, I love you!" Ashley shook her head and stood walking over to the kitchen sink. She wiped tears from her eyes and leaned against the counter for support as her knees shook.
"Those are just words David," she sighed. "That's the first time I've heard those words in months, but those are just words." David stared at her back with a mixture of anger and sadness in his eyes.
"Just words...." he said, more to himself than to her.
"I want more than words, words aren't always enough." she explained still not looking at him. David clenched his hands into fists at his sides as his mind raced with ways to stop this conversation from continuing. He quickly stepped forward and grasped Ashley by the waist spinning her around to face him. She didn't look up at him, but instead stared at their feet nervously.
"I'll give you something more than words." he said in a husky voice. David raised Ashley's chin so their gazes met and then he lowered his lips to hers kissing her hungrily. Ashley gasped in surprise, but didn't urge to react in anyway. There used to be such a fire between them that never went out, but now not even embers burned. Ashley remembered times when they couldn't get enough of each other. There wasn't a spot in the house were they hadn't made love. But now it had been weeks since they'd shared that special joining. David broke the kiss and stared down at her. Ashley shook her head and looked up at him with tears in her eyes.
"I'm sorry," she whispered. "But it's over David...it's over!" Anger flashed like lightening in his eyes and he quickly stepped away from her. He grabbed his things from next to his chair and Ashley watched him walk out of the room as tears streamed down her face. She heard the door slam, and she stood there motionless for a moment before sliding to the floor, in a fit of sobs. "I'm sorry." she whispered.
Chapter 2
That afternoon David sat in his dressing room staring at himself in the mirror. He sighed heavily thinking of Ashley and suddenly his cell phone rang, bringing him back to the present.
"Hello?" he answered with irritation.
"David, is that you?" a familiar voice asked.
"Yes, yes it is." he answered, unable to put a face with the voice.
"It's been a long time." the voice said. "It's me David, Ed Scott." David finally smiled and adjusted himself in his chair.
"Ed," he finally said. "It has been a long time, how are you?"
"I'm doing great," Ed replied. "How are you?"
David hesitated and then said, "Somehow I don't think you called to see how I'm doing." David remarked. "I get the sense that there's more behind this call."
"You always could read me like a book." Ed replied with a laugh. "And you're right, I'd like to talk business with you, but first I want to know how things are going for you. How's Ashley?"
At the sound of her name David's chest tightened, and after a few moments of nervous silence David replied, "Actually, we're having problems."
"That's too bad," Ed sighed. "You two were always so perfect together. May I give you some advice?"
"Sure." David replied licking his lips
"What you and Ashley have is special, at least of what I've seen of it." he said. "So if I were you, I wouldn't let her go, you don't want to lose something that special. Love like that only comes around once in a lifetime."
David nodded silently in agreement and then said, "So....what type of business did you want to discuss?" Ed could tell David was trying to change the subject and he didn't argue.
"Well I was wondering where you stood as far as projects?" Ed answered.
"What do you mean?" David asked curiously.
"Well we want you back David," Ed explained. "We want to bring Billy Abbott back, and as far as I'm concerned you're the only person right for the part." David was so shocked, he didn't know what to say. He had never thought about going back to the cast, but now the offer was sounding appealing.
"What do you have in mind?" David finally asked.
"Well there's where we run into the problem." Ed sighed.
"What kind of problem?" David asked.
"We wanted to bring Ashley back as well," Ed replied quietly. "We had no idea you two were going through something."
"I see..." David replied thoughtfully. "I don't know what she'd say to it, on second thought I do."
"And?" Ed asked
"If she knows I'm involved she'll pass." David replied.
"That's too bad." Ed sighed.
"No one is Mackenzie Browning except Ashley."
"Are you sure, I mean I guess we could recast?"
"No don't do that," Billy insisted. "I think I have an idea."
"I'm listening." Ed said with a smile.
That night Ashley was in the living room sitting on the sofa curled up under a blanket in front of the fireplace. She was trying to concentrate on the script she'd been offered and she was having little luck doing it.
"It's no use." she said to herself. Just then the phone rang. "Hello?" she answered.
"Ashley?" a voice asked.
"Yes," she replied. "Who is this?"
"Ed Scott dear." he smiled.
"Ed," she cried happily. "What a surprise, it's been a long time!"
"Yes it has," he agreed. "How are things?"
Ashley hesitated unsure of what to say and then said, "Things are different."
"Really?" he asked. "In what way?"
"David and I are having problems." she answered unhappily.
"Oh I am sorry to hear that. Is there something I can do for you?"
"Yes," she replied. "We can talk about something else, like the real reason why you're calling?"
"Well now, you get right to the point don't you?" he laughed. "Actually I was wondering if you'd be interested in a business deal?"
"What kind?" she asked tossing her script to the floor.
"Like rejoining the cast as Mackenzie." he replied. Ashley nearly dropped the phone and Ed heard her gasp.
"Are you kidding?" she asked.
"Not in the least," he replied. "What do you think?"
"I think I say yes!" she said with a smile.
"Really, without even reading the contract?" he asked.
"Well of course we have to talk, but right now I could use the distraction." she explained.
"I see..." he replied.
"Why are you bringing her back, Mac I mean?" she questioned curiously.
"We just feel that it's time to have a reunion." he replied.
"A reunion?" she aksed her heart sinking.
"Yes with all the old gang you, Alex, Thad, Lauren, Dave..."
"What about Dave?" she asked nervously.
"Well I talked to him today and he's not sure yet if he's interested," Ed explained. "He's going to have an answer for us tomorrow."
"Really?" she asked.
"Uh huh," he replied. "Is that a problem?'
"Huh no," she lied. "When do I sign?'
"When can you get out here?" he laughed.
"Tomorrow," she blurted out. "Is that too soon?"
"No, not at all." he smiled. "We'll see you then Ashley, you won't regret this!" She smiled to herself then hung up the phone.
"I just might...." she said to herself.
Chapter 3
The next afternoon Ashley walked off her plane and walked out of the airport to find a cab. However, there was a limousine and a driver waiting for her, so she handed him her bags and slipped inside. As they made their drive to the set all Ashley could think about was what it felt like to be home. She passed so many familiar things and it all seemed like a part of her. The limo stopped outside the building and Ashley stepped out of the limo and instructed the driver where to take her bags. She then walked into the building and she found Ed along with the new head writer waiting for her.
"Ashley," Ed smiled. "It's great to have you back!"
"It's great to be here," she said. "Now where is my contract?"
"Now this is a business woman," he laughed. "But we'll get to that in a second, first I want you to meet Kristen Silver, our new head writer."
"It's nice to meet you." Ashley said shaking her hand.
"I've been a fan for years," Kristen smiled. "And I have a new storyline you'll just love."
"We'll get to that later," Ed smiled. "Now shall we?" Ashley nodded and followed him into his office. As Ashley disappeared down the hallway David walked in the front door and looked around.
"Can I help you?" a familiar voice asked from behind him.
"Alexis...." David laughed as he spunned around.
"David!" she squealed. "Oh my Gosh!" she hurried into his open arms and he spun her around happily.
"It's so great to see you!" he said.
"You too," she agreed. "I totally forgot you were coming back."
"You knew?" he asked in surprise.
"Yeah they made a big announcement about it yesterday," she replied. "Where's Ash, is she still outside?"
"Ah...that's a long story, but we came separately." he replied.
"Well I've got the time." she offered.
"Where is everyone?" David asked, trying to change the subject.
"Lauren and Thad are in Lauren's dressing room amd Dave is around here somewhere," she laughed. "And everyone else is going about their regular routines."
David smiled and asked, "How are you two anyway?"
"You mean me and David?" she asked with a sly grin. "We're great, in fact we're engaged. Can you believe it?"
"Congratulations!" he said hugging her again.
"David?" Jess Walton suddenly called from behind him.
"Jess!" David cried hugging her as she came towards him.
"They're waiting for you," she whispered in his ear. "We'll chat later." He saw the knowing look she gave him and he knew she knew. He wasn't sure how she knew, but he knew she did. He nodded and then turned to Alexis.
"I'll catch you later." he smiled.
"Yeah, stop by my dressing room later and we'll catch up." He nodded again and then followed Jess down the hall.
An hour later David stood and shook Ed Scott's hand.
"Welcome aboard." he smiled.
"Thanks," David grinned. "Where's my dressing room?"
"It's where you left it last time." Ed replied.
"Really?" David asked.
"Yes, but unfortunately Ashley's is right across from yours." Ed sighed. "Those were the only two available."
"It's fine." David assured him.
"Well then we start taping tomorrow, so learn the script." Ed said walking him to the door.
"You're a slave driver." David laughed.
"That's why the Young and the Restless is still the number one rated daytime drama." Ed remarked. David slipped out into the hallway and as he approached his dressing room the door across from his opened and Ashley stepped out into the hall. She turned around and gasped in shock.
"What are you doing here?" she asked.
"I work here." he replied and then he walked into his dressing room and closed the door.
Chapter 4
Ashley stood in the hallway for a moment and then slipped back into her dressing room, wiping the tears away. Suddenly there was a soft knock on her door and Alexis poked her head in.
"Ashley...." she smiled. "I was hoping you were here." They wrapped each other in a hug and Ashley's tears started to fall freely. "Oh Ashley...." Alexis whispered. "I'm so sorry....I had no idea you and David were having problems. Do you want to talk about it?" Ashley shook her head and they walked over and sat on the couch.
"Not now Lex, okay?" she sighed placing her head in her hands. "I'm just going through alot right now and talking about it doesn't help."
"It's ok Ash, just know that I'm here for you okay?" she offered.
"So how are you and Dave?" Ashley asked trying to change the subject.
"Well..." Alexis said flashing her ring. "Things are perfect, no more than perfect!"
"Oh my gosh!" Ashley gasped. "You're engaged, how great! Oh I'm so happy for you two!"
"Thanks," Alexis smiled. "We haven't set a date yet, but things are moving along. We've moved in together ya know."
"It's been so long," Ashley sighed. "I'm sorry we lost touch....."
"Oh don't be sorry," Alexis frowned touching Ashley's hands. "I know you've been busy and so have I. Life goes by so quickly and these things happen. What matters now is you're back, and we can catch up on everything we've missed out on." Ashley nodded in agreement and they hugged one another tightly. "I've missed you so much." Alexis whispered.
"I've missed you too Lexi!" Just then there was another knock on the door and Lauren popped her blonde head in.
"Hey you two," she smiled brightly. "You're having the reunion without me?" she asked. Ashley laughed lightly and stood to hug her other friend.
"It's good to see you too." she said to Lauren.
"I was beginning to wonder if we'd ever hear from you again?" Lauren replied. "Did you forget how to use a phone?" Ashley and Alexis laughed and then the room grew silent. "I get the feeling I was interrupting an intense moment?" Lauren said looking at Ashley. "What's up you two? Ashley, why does it look like you've been crying?"
David sighed as he leaned against the door and listened to Ashley close her dressing room door. As he walked across the room he heard a knock on the door and he turned around and saw Thad and Dave enter the room.
"It's about time we found you," Dave smirked. "We've been looking everywhere!"
"Well I've been in a meeting," David replied hugging Thad and Dave. "What's up you guys?"
"You tell us?"Thad remarked. "Rumor has it that things aren't like they should be? Something about you and Ash?" David frowned and ran his fingers through his hair.
"Let's not get into this right now, okay?" he sighed. "It's a long story and I don't want to rehash it at this moment."
"Okay, okay." Dave said raising his hands. "We'll back off."
"So," David said. "I hear congratulations are in order?" Dave grinned and shook his head.
"It's been a long time in coming, but I wasn't able to work up the courage until a couple of weeks ago." he said.
"And now that you're back you can help me." Thad smiled.
"Yeah you two can be my best men." Dave grinned.
"Isn't it supposed to be best man?" David asked.
"Yeah but I can't choose between my two best friends, so I'll have two."
"Sounds good to me." Thad agreed.
"How are things with you Thad?" David asked wanting to keep the conversation away from him and Ashley. Just then there was an announcement over the intercom.
"Meeting in conference room in five minutes." Thad shrugged his shoulders and opened the door.
"You're not off the hook." Dave whispered as he walked by. David looked at him for a moment and then hurried down the hall.
Five minutes later the entire cast was gathered in the conference room waiting for the big announcment that Ed had to make.
"As you all know we have some intriguring storylines that we've been building for months now...." he started. "And now it's time to shock the viewers and bring back daytime's most memorable young couple. David and Ashley, would you please come in here? Everyone let's welcome back David Tom as Billy Abbott and Ashley Bashioum as Mackenzie Browning!" Everyone cheered and rushed to hug them.
"So great to have you both back!" Jess smiled squeezing Ashley's hands.
"Yeah, we've missed you too!" Sharon smiled hugging Ashley.
Peter hugged David and whispered, "It's great to see you little brother." David smiled but didn't know what to say, it was all so overwhelming.
"Welcome back Ash." Dave smiled hugging her tightly.
"Yeah, we've missed you." Thad agreed hugging her. She smiled at them and then looked nervously at David. Lauren rushed up to David and threw herself into his arms.
"David, I can't believe you're back!" she cried. "It's been so long!" He hugged her and then hugged Alexis.
"The whole gang is back together." Dave smiled.
"It's about d*mn time too." Thad grinned.
"It's never been the same without you." Alexis agreed.
"Quit whining about the past," Lauren insisted. "We're all together again and that's what counts!" They all agreed and then turned to Ed who was starting to speak again.
"Now that we got the welcomes over with, let's get down to business." he said. "This is going to shock viewers, especially with the reason they're returning to Genoa City. Billy and Mac left together, but they won't be returning together, at least not in the way the viewers will expect. It's going to be an exciting next couple of weeks, but people let's keep it under our hats. We want their return to be a surprise, even the soap magazines don't know about this." Everyone agreed and Ed said, "Well that's settled, let's get back to work shall we?" They all groaned and headed out the door. "David and Ashley, can I speak with you a moment?" he said, they nodded and approached him. "I hope this won't be uncomfortable for either of you." he said. "Let's make the best of it okay?" Neither of them said a word for a moment and then Ed decided to change the subject. "We've made some changes around here, so I'll have someone show you around so you can get comfortable again okay?" he offered.
"Thanks Ed." David smiled.
"Yeah I appreciate it." Ashley replied trying to avoid David's gaze.
"Well then you two have alot to work on before tomorrow, so I'll leave you alone. Here's the next couple of scripts." Ed sighed. "I'll see you both bright and early tomorrow morning."
They both watched him leave and when the door was shut David turned to Ashley, however before he could say anything she grabbed her things quickly and walked to the door.
"Ashley wait!" he called.
Chapter 5
"What?" she snapped, not turning to face him.
"Don't you want to talk?" he asked.
"We have nothing to talk about." she insisted.
"Ash, don't be like this!" he pleaded, touching her shoulder. She had been unaware that he had walked up behind her and his touch made her jump. She stepped away from him and turned to face him with blazing eyes. "Why are you being like this?" he asked sadly. "Do you really not love me anymore?"
"I have no idea how I feel right now," she replied. "I need to figure out who I am."
"What are you talking about?" he questioned.
"I've been nothing but your wife, Ashley Tom for the last five years!" she cried. "The person I used to be before I met you is lost and I want to find her!" He looked at her for a moment and then stepped towards her.
"You're the same girl I fell in love with," he whispered, touching her shoulder. "The same deep brown eyes that I lose myself in everytime I look into them. The same smooth voice that makes my heart fly everytime I hear it."
"David stop..." she said, pulling away from his grasp. "You can't do this to me, not now, not ever!"
"Ashley," he whispered. "I see it in your eyes...you love me just as much as you did the day we were married. And I love you so much if not more than the day we met. I love that fire in your eyes, that gentleness in your touch, that silk in your voice. I love it all, I love everything about you and I always have!" Ashley turned away and wiped the tears away.
"We can't do this!" she insisted shaking her head. "I'm not who I used to be, I want to be more than I am now."
"So being the woman I love isn't enough for you anymore!" he snapped sadly.
"I want to be a woman I love!" she snapped. "It doesn't matter if you love me, I have to love myself and I don't love who I've become."
"And since you don't love yourself or your life that means you don't love me," he said angrily. "Well, I'm sorry I've helped turn you into someone you no longer love!"
"David, that's not it!" she cried. "You're not listening to me, you never have!"
"Fine," he snapped. "Forget it, but you're not ruining this opportunity for me. You're going to act civil while we're here on the set, do you hear me? Act as if nothings wrong!" Ashley nodded silently and then stared at her feet as she listened to David walk to the door and then slam it on the way out.
"You just don't listen..." she whispered to herself.
Ashley walked into her dressing room later that evening and leaned against the door after she'd shut it.
"What am I going to do?" she asked herself. "I'm so confused!" As she walked over to lie down on the couch there was a knock on her door. "Come in." she sighed.
Thad poked his head in and asked, "Feel like company?" Ashley shrugged her shoulders and Thad walked into the room, shutting the door. He walked over and sat down next to her. She looked at him for a moment and neither of them said a word. "So...." Thad sighed. "How does it feel to be back?"
"It actually feels pretty good," she replied. "At least part of it anyway."
"What do you mean?" he questioned, leaning back against the couch.
"Well, I took this job to get my mind off of David and now that he's here too my plan can't work." she explained. "It only makes it harder."
"I see where your problem is," he said. "But I have a feeling you're going to be even more upset when you read the script."
"Why?" she asked curiously.
"Because you and David are still together." he replied.
"You're kidding me?" she cried. "I thought Ed said..."
"Ed said you two weren't returning together, but the script has you two kissing on the first episode."
"Great, just great." she cried, wiping tears away. "I can't kiss him off screen, so how am I going to kiss him on screen?"
"I don't know," he said. "But the viewers are in for alot of surprises in the weeks to come."
"Like what?" she asked.
"Read your script and find out." he grinned. "Look I better get home, but if you need to talk I'm here for you in more ways than one." They stood up and Ashley wondered about his comment as he hugged her a little closer than usual. "I'll see you tomorrow." he waved before walking out the door. Ashley stared at the closed door and then remembered his earlier comment, 'The viewers are in for alot of surprises in the weeks to come.' She quickly picked up her script and started reading, hoping things didn't get too intimate between Billy and Mac.
As Thad walked out of Ashley's dressing room, Kirsten Silver walked up to David's room and knocked softly.
"Come in!" he called. She stepped inside and smiled at him.
"Hi." she said.
"Hi," he replied. "What can I do for you?"
"I thought I should introduce myself," she explained. "I'm Kirsten Silver, the new head writer."
"So you're the lucky lady who replaced Kay Alden," he smiled. "It's about time someone got her out of here."
"That's what they all said." she laughed.
"Well, it's nice to meet you." he replied, looking back at his script. He expected her to turn and leave but when she didn't he looked back up at her and asked, "Was there something else?"
"Actually I just wanted to say what a big fan I am," she blushed. "I've watched the show for years adn it hasn't been the same without you.."
"That's cool, I guess this is your dream job then." he remarked.
She nodded and then said, "I'm sorry to hear that you and Ashley are having problems."
David sighed and said, "I forgot that nothing stays a secret on this set for long."
"Oh no, I didn't mean it like that." she stammered. "I just wanted to let you know that if you ever needed someone to talk to that you could talk to me. I would have never written Mac into the new storyline if I had known you two were having problems."
"What does that mean?" he asked defensively.
"Oh nothing." she said. "I just...never mind, I should be going." David nodded suspiciously and then watched her leave. He thought back to the look in her eyes and decided he needed to watch her carefully for both his sake and Ashley's.
Chapter 6
Kirsten walked out into the hall and smiled to herself.
"Little do you know..." she said to herself. "That the only reason you got this job was so we could be together!" She laughed lightly to herself and thought, 'And as soon as I can, Mackenzie Browning is going to die and maybe her portrayer will too!" She smiled again and then walked down the hall towards her office.
Just then Ashely walked out of her dressing room and headed towards the parking lot where her taxi would be waiting. She walked out into the cool night air and sighed, looking up at the bright lights of the city. She slipped into her cab and as it pulled away she didn't notice David stepping out of the shadows of the building and watch the car disappear. He walked to his jeep and slid behind the wheel, quickly starting the engine. He drove out of the parking lot and headed in the opposite direction to his new beach house.
Ashley stepped out of the cab and quickly paid the driver before hurrying up to her new apartment that CBS had found for her. She unlocked the door and then walked inside, not bothering to turn on the lights as she made her way into the living room. She stumbled over a box and cursed to herself. She found the light switch across the room and flipped it on, examining the room. As she turned to walk towards the dining room she gasped, noticing the food on the table.
"Chinese food?" she said to herself, memories flashing before her eyes. She smiled, remembering all the times she and Thad had shared Chinese food while they rehearsed their lines. Suddenly she gasped as he stepped out of the kitchen, holding two cans of soda.
"Hey." he grinned.
"What on earth are you doing here?" she asked.
"I thought you'd like to get back in the swing of things." he laughed.
"I guess you did," she smiled walking up to the table. "Mmmmm....all my favorites!"
"You didn't think I'd forget, did you?" he replied, walking over next to her.
"Well, it's been awhile." she remarked.
"Yes, it has." he said placing a hand on her shoulder.
"Thad, what are you doing?" she asked looking up at him.
"Come on Ash," he said. "Don't tell me you don't still feel the connection between us?"
"Thad, I can't..." she said. "It's been too long!"
"No, you don't mean that." he insisted. "What we had was stronger than anything either of us has ever felt before, even compared to what you have with..."
"No," she cut in. "Don't say it!"
"But Ashley!" he pleaded.
"No Thad, I'm not ready, okay?" she said. "I need time..."
"Fine," he sighed. "I'll go, but only after this..." Before she could say a word, Thad wrapped her in his arms and pressed his lips against hers. "I've missed you Ash." he whispered, after hugging her tightly. She smiled nervoulsy and then watched him walk to the door and then disappear. Ashley held onto one of the chairs for support and tears slid down her cheeks.
"I can't do this," she sighed. "I just can't!" She sat down in the chair and laid her face on the cool table top, sighing softly. Just then her phone rang, but she ignored it, not wanting to deal with anyone. The answering machine picked up and suddenly she heard David's voice.
"Ash, Ash I know you're there." he said. "Pick up please! Okay, look I know you're listening...I just wanted to make sure you got home alright and to say sleep tight. You'll be in my dreams. I love you Ash..." Then all she heard was the dial tone.
David hung onto the phone for a few moments and then replaced it on the receiver. "I really do love you..." he said to himself. "If only you'd believe that!"
"Cut!" the director called the next morning. Ashley quickly slipped from David's embrace and walked away before he could protest. He frowned slightly and then turned to find Dave staring at him.
"What?" he asked defensively.
"Nothing," Dave replied. "I'm just wondering what you did that upset Ash so much."
"Who said I did anything?" David snapped. "Maybe she's the one who did something!"
"I doubt that, Ash wouldn't be acting this way is she caused the fight." Dave replied. "She'd been begging for forgiveness and you know it!" David shook his head and looked at his feet. "Come on man," Dave insisted. "Tell me what's up, maybe I can help?"
"I doubt it," David sighed. "Ash wants a divorce." Dave's eyes widened and David heard him gasp softly.
"You're kidding," he finally said. "You're not giving up without a fight, are you? I mean, if things were reversed and it was me and Alexis....I'd fight to the death for her."
"It's more complicated than that," David explained. "It's not what I did, it's what I didn't do."
"Okay, well what didn't you do?" Dave asked as they walked away from the rest of the crowd.
"She says I've started ignoring her." David answered as he glanced at Ashley across the room. She looked up at him and once they made eye contact she glanced away.
"Well, have you?" Dave asked with a frown.
"No, well maybe...I don't know..." David cried. "I just got comfortable I guess. You know I got used to her just being there when I needed her and I forgot that she needed me too."
"Idiot," Dave said shaking his head. "That woman over there is the best thing in your life, the best thing that's ever happened to you and you just tossed her aside like an old shoe! Now I understand where she's coming from."
"Hey," David glared. "Whose side are you on?"
"Hers, but I'm going to help you anyway even if you don't deserve it." Dave smiled.
"Yeah thanks." David said sarcastically.
"Anytime." Dave replied glancing in Ashley's direction. "So what are you going to do to win her back?"
"I...I don't know." David sighed. "She won't even talk to me!" Just then as they were staring at her they watched Thad walk up and drape his arm across Ashley's shoulders. David's eyes shot fire and his lips turned white as he pressed them together. They watched Thad and Ashley walk away and Ashley suddenly laughed at something just as she looked in their direction. "What the h*ll?" David hissed.
"Hey relax," Dave said. "They're friends and have been for years. You know they were together for awhile..."
"That's what bothers me." David cut in.
"Just relax," Dave said again. "Ashley wouldn't do that to you."
"But Thad might." David remarked before walking off.
Ashley and Thad walked down the hall to her dressing room and stopped outside her door.
"So are we on for tonight?" Thad asked.
"Thad, I told you..." she started.
"No buts," he said calmly. "You need to get out, not mope around in your apartment all night."
"I'm sorry Thad." she said shaking her head. "Not tonight, okay?"
"Fine, I can take a hint." he smiled. "But you haven't heard the last of me!" Ashley laughed and then slipped into her dressing room, a smile still on her face.
Just then there was a knock on her door and as she opened her door she said, "Thad I told you....not tonight..." But she stopped dead in her tracks at the sight of Dave standing in front of her.
"Hey," he smiled. "Why the long face? Aren't you glad to see me?" Ashley nodded slightly and allowed herself to be wrapped in his embrace. "How are you?" he asked as he stepped past her.
"Fine." she replied calmly.
"Don't give me that bull," he said shaking his head. "Talk to me Ash, tell me what's up with you and David!" Ashley stared at him with uncertainty. She wasn't sure she wanted to share her feelings, but at the same time she needed to talk to someone!
Chapter 8
"Dave I really don't want to get into things right now, okay?" she sighed, walking across the room.
"Come on Ash, you know talking will help." he insisted.
"I'm sorry Dave," she replied. "I just don't feel like upsetting myself at the moment and if I talk about it I'm just going to cry."
"Sometimes crying is exactly what a person needs," he said with a frown. "Just come sit down and talk to me."
"D*mn*t Dave," she snapped, spinning to face him. "I said no!" He looked at her for a moment and then stood, walking over to her. She watched him cautiously and then allowed him to wrap her in his arms.
"Ash, I can see you're hurting and it kills me." he whispered, stroking her hair softly. "Just talk to me, open up and let it all out." Tears started streaming down her face and she sobbed against his chest.
"It's just not fair," she cried. "Why can't I get past this?"
"Get past what?" he asked, walking her over to the couch.
"Past the fact that I know I still love David." she replied.
"Because you don't want to let him go," Dave sighed. "Now why don't you tell me what's been bothering you..." Ashley looked at him for a long moment and then it all started pouring out.
"I know he loves me, but he never shows it." she explained. "He used to do sweet things like bring me flowers or leave little notes for me to find. He'd call me for no reason, just to tell me he loved me. He'd wake me up in the middle of the night because he couldn't wait till morning to talk to me. We'd make love whenever the mood struck us. He could never seem to get enough of me, but now it's as if I'm not even there half the time. It's like he expects me to be there, I feel like he just ignores me until for some reason he needs me."
"Oh Ash..." Dave sighed, stroking her hand.
"I don't even know who I am anymore." she continued. "I've lost touch with the person I used to be, the person I was when David and I got married."
"What are you talking about?" he asked with a smile. "I know exactly who you are! You're Ashley Bashioum-Tom, award winning actress, you're Ashley Bashioum, part of The Young and The Restless' all time favorite Daytime couple, and you're Ashley Tom, David Tom's loving, supportive, and extremely beautiful and talented wife. Ash, you're all those things and more, don't you see that?"
"No..." she sighed, holding her head in her hands. "I've lost those things in my mind, they may be true, but I don't see them."
"Why not?" he asked in confusion.
"Because I don't feel loved!" she cried. "That's what it comes down to, okay?" David says he loves me, but he never shows it! Never! That's what counts Dave, at least to me. Action speak louder than words, not that he says it very often, but at the same time I know...G*d Dave, I'm so confused!" She leaned into Dave as he hugged her tightly.
"Everything's going to work out, okay? I promise." he assured her, kissing the top of her head. "You and David mean the world to me and I want you both to be happy!"
A half and hour later, Dave walked out of Ashley's dressing room and walked across the hall to David's room. He knocked lightly, not wanting Ashley to hear him and then slipped inside.
"What's up?" David asked curiously.
"I just talked to Ash." Dave explained.
"Okay..." David replied nervously.
"And you've got some hard work ahead of you if you want her back." Dave remarked as he folded his arms across his chest and stared accusingly at David.
Chapter 9
The next morning David walked down the hallway towards Ashley's dressing room. He prayed she was there because if she wasn't he wasn't sure he could work up the nerve to do what he was planning on doing in a few short moments. He approached her door and hesitated shortly before knocking softly. He waited there and heard sounds as someone moved around inside and then the door opened slowly. Ashley appeared and she seemed shocked to see him.
"Hi." he greeted.
"Hi," she replied nervously. "What are you doing here?"
"I ah...actually wanted to bring you this." he said, removing a single red rose from behind his back. Ashley's eyes lit up and she smiled.
"It's beautiful David, thank you." she cried as he handed it to her. "But why?"
"I just thought it would be a nice surprise since I hadn't brought you flowers in awhile." he explained. Ashley's smiled faded slightly and she nodded, with a sadness filling her eyes.
"Thank you," she said. "I love it." He smiled at her and neither of them said another word.
"Ash...I...I was wondering if maybe you would like to..." he started to say. But just then Thad walked up and smiled.
"Hey Ash!" he greeted, kissing her cheek.
"Hi," she smiled, glancing at David. "What brings you here so early?"
"I wanted to drop these by." he grinned, handing her a dozen of white roses.
"They're beautiful," she smiled. "Thank you, but you didn't have to."
"I know but I like doing things for you." he explained. "But I'll see you later, okay?"
"Okay." she agreed. She turned to look at David, but his smile had faded and he was glaring down the hall at Thad. "David..." she said. She set the flowers inside and turned to him. "David..." she said again when he didn't answer. "Are you okay?" He looked at her and frowned.
"I'm fine." he lied.
"Then what was it you were going to ask me?" she asked smiling.
"Nothing," he snapped. "Just forget it!" He then turned and walked into his own dressing room. He slammed the door and Ashley jumped at the sound. She stood there for a few moments and then walked over and knocked on his door. When he didn't answer she turned the knob and walked in.
"What was that about?" she asked. "Why are you acting this way?"
"What gives you the right to ask me that?" he asked. "You're the one who's acting different!"
"That's not fair and you know it!" she shot back.
"I can't believe he had the nerve to do that right in front of me!" he snapped. "You're my wife for heavens sake!"
"He's only my friend." she assured him.
"Like h*ll he is!" David snapped. "I know your history with one another and now that he thinks I'm out of the picture he thinks he can just move in, well he's wrong!"
"What gives you the right to say who I can and can't see?" she asked. "You never cared before!"
"Well, that was then and this is now and now I care!" he replied.
"D*mn*t David!" she cried. "This is stupid! Thad and I are only friends besides...things are different between you and I now and you know it!"
"I don't give a d*mn," he hissed. "You're still my wife!"
"Then maybe you should act like I am!" she exclaimed. David ran his hand through his hair and sighed with aggravation.
"Ashley, I tried to do that and look what happened..." he replied.
"David, that wasn't my fault." she sighed. "And you know it, so don't take it out on me. I can't help what Thad does, but I won't be rude."
"Fine!" he remarked, turning away from her and closing his eyes.
"David," she said placing a hand on his shoulder. "What were you going to ask me?"
"I was going to ask you over for dinner tonight." he replied, still not looking at her.
"Does the offer still stand?" she asked. David's eyes opened in surprise and he turned to face her. He nodded and she smiled.
"What time should I be there?"
"Seven." he answered.
"Okay, well I'll see you on the set later today." she nodded. David smiled, still in shock, and then watched as she closed the door behind her. He sighed and then grinned to himself. Tonight was the night!
Chapter 10
Ashley stepped out of her car and slowly approached David's new house. It was good sized and the exterior was absolutely beautiful. She would love to live there. She shook her head and scolded herself for thinking like that. She wasn't sure what the future would bring. She rang the doorbell and then waited in the cold for him to answer. Moments later she heard him approach and then the door opened, revealing his smiling face. He stepped aside and she slipped past him. She smiled and allowed him to help her with her coat.
"I'm glad you came." he finally said as they walked into the living room.
"Why wouldn't I?" she asked.
"Well....I know the way you feel about me right now." he explained. "And I would have understood if you hadn't shown up."
"David," she said. "This has nothing to do with how I feel about you. It has to do with how I feel about myself." He nodded and she could see the uncertainty in his eyes. She smiled and said, "Let's not talk about this tonight okay?"
"Okay." he agreed. "Dinner is almost ready, shall we go into the dining room?" She nodded and followed him through the house.
"This house is gorgeous." she commented.
"I'm glad you like it," he thought secretly hoping she would like it. "It took me quite awhile to find one I actually liked."
"Well you did a wonderful job picking it out." she smiled as she sat down at the table across from him.
"Thanks." he said walking toward the kitchen. He returned shortly and sat a plate in front of her.
"It smells delicious." she complimented.
"Well I try." he teased. Ashley laughed and David's heart flipped, it had been forever since he'd heard her laugh. It was music to his ears. They sat in silence for a few minutes, but soon the conversation began to flow and things went smoothly from there, that is until later that night.
They were sitting in the living room when Ashley's cell phone rang.
"Hello?" she answered.
"Hey babe." Thad greeted her.
"Hi....." she said nervously.
"What's up?" he asked. "Where are you? I've been calling your apartment all night long."
"I'm having dinner." she replied.
"With who?" he asked. Ashely was silent and he said, "Let me guess...David?"
"Ah huh." she answered.
"Whatever!" he snapped. "I'm not going to play your games! It's either him or me!" Ashley tried to protest but all she heard was a dial tone. She hung up her phone and then turned to David who was frowning.
"It was him wasn't it?" he asked. Ashley looked down at her hands in her lap, and she felt him stand and walk across the room.
"D*mn*t Ash!" he sighed. "We can't even have a night to ourselves without him interrupting!"
"David I am sorry," she pleaded. "I didn't know he was going to call, how could I?"
"I know that, but that's not the point!" he snapped. "It's either him or me!"
"He just said the same thing." she replied softly.
"Well then you have a choice to make." he remarked.
"That's not fair!" she cried standing to face him.
"It isn't?" he asked. "I'm your husband and he's your friend....who would you want me to choose if things were reversed?"
"David, things are complicated." she explained.
"How?" he asked.
"Because I asked for a divorce, remember!" she snapped finally losing her control. "And if I choose to see Thad I will!"
"So you're choosing him?" David questioned in shock.
"No that's not what I'm saying!" she cried turning away. "This is my whole point...you never listen to me!"
"I'm listening." he insisted.
"No you're not....." she said wiping the tears out of her eyes. "And I am not going to deal with this anymore!" David watched as she picked up her coat and purse and then moved toward the door. "My lawyer will contact your lawyer about the papers." she said then she was gone, slamming the door behind her.
Chapter 11
David stood for a few moments staring at the closed door. He then quickly shook his head and raced to the door flinging it open. He hadn't heard the storm roll in, but the falling rain was so thick he could barley see Ashley's dark figure running to her car. He called out and when she didn't stop he hesitated before running after her. He caught her quickly and grabbed her by the arm.
"You're not leaving me like this!" he insisted.
"Let go of me David," she cried. "Now!"
"No," he shouted. "We're not done, not by a long shot and I won't let something as stupid as this ruin what we have together!" Ashley stopped struggling and looked up at him.
She wiped the rain from her eyes and asked, "What are you saying?"
"I'm saying I love you and I want to work things out." he replied. "Ash, please don't leave me...I couldn't bare losing you." Ashley nodded and then gasped as he lowered his lips to hers. Heat zapped through her body and she melted in his arms, it was like nothing had changed between them and she felt something she hadn't felt in months. She felt his love and his passion for her and it felt amazing. He lifted her into his arms and carried her into the house, kicking the door and closing it with his foot. He hurried upstairs holding her like he was never going to let go, but once they reached the bedroom he sat her down and stared at her with such love in his eyes. She smiled at him and then wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him deeply, she couldn't get enough of him. His hands moved over her body and found their way to the buttons of her shirt. He slowly undid each button and trailed his mouth down her jawline to her neck. She leaned her head back and moaned, trying to regain some of her control. Her hands searched his body and then quickly undid his shirt buttons, sliding the shirt over his shoulders until it hit the floor. Ashley's shirt adn bra quickly followed and soon they were on the bed, wrapped in each other's arms. Ashley looked up at David and he looked down at her as he whispered, "I love you Ash!"
"I.....love you too!" she said before they were lost to each other.
Chapter 12
The next morning Ashley rolled over and stretched. David groaned and then rolled over, wrapping her in his arms. She smiled and then felt him kiss her shoulder.
"Morning." he yawned. Ashley moaned and looked at him. "Last night was great!" he commented with a devilish grin. She nodded and he asked, "So when are you moving in?"
"Moving in?" she asked.
"Well yeah, you don't expect us to live together in your apartment do you?"
"Live together?" she asked.
"Yeah," he said. "I thought that with last night...I thought we were back together."
"David..." she said. "Last night was great, but we still have a long way to go."
"What are you saying?" he asked, moving away from her. "That last night meant nothing? That you led me on? You told me you loved me!"
"That's not it at all." she insisted, reaching out to him. He moved out of her reach and began putting his clothes on.
"D*mn*i Ash," he cried. "Make up your freakin mind, either we're together or we're not!"
"David it's not like that." she said moving across the bed towards him. "I loved last night and not just this," she said motioning to the bed. "That's not what a marriage is about! I loved talking to you and just being with you. That's something we haven't experienced in a long time."
"What are you saying?" he asked standing at the foot of the bed.
"I want us to date again." she said calmly.
"You what?" he asked.
"I want us to date again, I want you to woo me like you did before we were married." she replied.
David looked at her curiously and then sighed, "If that's what you want..."
"It is." she smiled, crawling over to him. He leaned down and kissed her as she pulled him onto the bed. "Remember when we couldn't get enough of each other?" she asked with a giggle.
"I'm beginning to." he grinned before pulling the covers over their heads.
That morning David and Ashley walked into the studios hand in hand. They laughed and they smiled, causing people to look at them twice. Everyone noticed their change in attitude. It even showed in their acting, pleasing the directors greatly.
"That's a wrap!" the director called. "And whatever you two are doing, keep doing it. This is great!" They both laughed and then hurried off to David's dressing room. David slammed the door and pressed Ashley against it, kissing her deeply. Ashley giggled and then pressed him over onto the couch. He landed there and grinned at her as she sat down on his lap, kissing him again as she ran her fingers through his hair. Just then there was a knock on the door and before either of them could reply, it opened.
"David, are you here?" Kirsten Silver asked, as she poked her head in the door. "Oh sorry..." she laughed. "I...didn't know David had company."
"I'm not company, I'm his wife." Ashley remarked.
"Of course you are," Kirsten smiled fakely. "David could I talk to you for a moment?"
"About what?" he asked.
"The show," she smiled. "I have a few ideas for your storyline that I'd like to run by you, if you have the time that is."
"Well, Ash is my storyline. So can't we talk here?" he asked.
"Actually I was wondering if we could...I'd just rather talk to you." she insisted. "In the hall just for a moment?" David sighed deeply and looked at Ashley before standing and following her to the hall. He closed the door and she smiled. "Ed and I want you to have dinner with us tonight at the French Plaza, can you make it?" she asked.
"Can I bring Ashley?" he asked.
"Actually we just need you, it won't take more than an hour we promise." Kirsten explained.
David shrugged and then nodded, "What time?"
"Seven," she smiled. "We'll meet you there." David nodded and then walked back into the dressing room. 'Perfect,' Kirsten grinned. 'Tonight is my night!'
Chapter 13
That night David drove towards the French Plaza. He was on his cell phone talking to Ashley and seemed a little uneasy about the whole thing.
"Don't worry," he assured her. "I won't even be there for an hour."
"That doesn't matter," she insisted. "I wish you would have declined altogether."
"Now Ash," he sighed. "That's bad business and you know it, so how about I make you a deal?"
"What kind of a deal?" she asked with interest.
"Meet me there at seven and we'll leave and go out together." he suggested. "Can you live with that?"
"I guess that's my only option." she sighed.
David laughed and said, "I'll see you soon gorgeous. I love you!"
"I love you too." she smiled before hanging up the phone.
David parked in the parking lot and then hurried into the plaza, noticing the time. The waiter showed him to the table, but as he approached he saw only Kirsten there.
"Where's Ed?" he asked as he sat across from her.
"Ah....he had something come up." she lied.
"Well, we can reschedule." David remarked.
"No, no." she smiled. "He insisted that we talk without him."
"Then let's get down to business." he suggested.
"What's your hurry?" she asked. "Don't you want to order?"
"Actually I have another dinner plan tonight, so if we could make this quick." he frowned.
"David..." she frowned. "Settle down...we'll get to business shortly, but first I'd like to know how you and Ashley are doing."
"Really?" he asked sarcastically.
"Yes," she assured him. "I want all the cast members to be happy."
"Well, things with Ash and me are better than ever." he assured her.
"I'm glad," she said suddenly placing a hand over his. "Just as long as you're happy." Just then Ashley walked in and saw Kirsten with her hand over David's. She frowned as she watched the scene unfold.
She slowly walked over to the table and asked, "Well, well....what do we have here?"
"Ashley," David cried in surprise looking at his watch. "You're early."
"I thought I'd surprise you," she snapped. "But I see I'm the one who's surprised!"
"It's not what you think...." he stammered.
"It isn't?" she asked glaring at him.
"No!" he cried standing to reach out to her.
"Then where's Ed?" she asked sitting her purse on the table.
"He couldn't make it." David replied.
"Like I believe that," she said. "I'm outta here!"
"Ashley wait!" he called, but she hurried away. "Why didn't you say anything?" he asked, turning to Kirsten who was now standing next to him.
"What was there to say?" she asked. "She saw exactly what was going on."
"And what's that?" he asked.
"This." she smiled, kissing him deeply.
Ashley ran out to her car in tears and discovered she'd forgotten to pick her purse back up. She sighed leaning against the car and wondered what to do...
"I have to get out of here." she said looking back at the Plaza. She sighed again and walked back to get her purse. As she approached the table again her heart sank as she saw David kissing Kirsten. "You know...I almost wanted to believe you!" she snapped grabbing her purse.
"Ashley!" he cried again. She sent him a glare then fled the restaurant again. David spun to face a grinning Kirsten and his glare made her back away. "Don't you ever do that again!" he hissed and then he turned and walked away, not glancing back.
"It looks as if Ashley has done all the work for me." she said to herself as she sat back down, motioning for the waiter to take her order.
The next morning Ashley and David had just finished their scenes when a lunch break was called. Ashley started to walk away, when David grabbed her arm.
"Ash, wait!" he insisted.
"Why?" she snapped. "So you can humiliate me some more?"
"That's not what I did,' he replied. "She kissed me I swear!"
"Well, news flash! I don't believe you!"
"D*mn*it why not?" he asked.
"Because I'm tired of your crap!" she hissed. "And I'm through with giving you my heart and having you tear it to pieces. Is that a good enough answer or should I elaborate?" David stared at her for a moment and then dropped her arm from his grasp.
"Fine," he yelled catching everyone's attention. "But don't expect me to stick around and watch you here! I quit, do you hear me? I'm heading back east, you send me the divorce papers when you have them drawn up! I'm tired of having a wife who doesn't support me or trust me!" Ashley stood there in shock and watched him walk away. They all heard his dressing room door slam and noticed Ashley start to sob. Lauren and Alexis rushed to her, holding her up as her legs gave out. They helped her back to her dressing room and then sat with her while she cried. And later they all heard David storm out of his dressing room after the screaming match he'd had with Dave and Ed Scott as they tried to reason with him. Ashley listened to his door slam and then slouched against Alexis, trying to figure out where things had ever gone wrong.
Chapter 14
That night Ashley sat on the Crimson Lights set with Lauren, Dave, Alexis, and Thad. They were running lines and waiting for the director to arrive so they could start taping. Ashley was a wreck, unable to believe that her entire life was crumbling around her, but she had insisted that they continue with taping. She didn't want the studio to be on hold because she had messed up her life. The director arrived followed by Ed Scott who sat down with them.
"Listen up kiddos," he frowned. "As you know we've got some casting problems to deal with, so as of now your storylines are on hold. Until we can find a replacement."
"Ed..." Ashley remarked. "I am so sorry!"
"You have nothing to be sorry about my dear," he smiled. "David made his own choice."
"But there has to be something I can do to help!" she cried.
"Not unless you can get him to come back," he sighed. "And I don't want to put that on your shoulders."
"Ash..." Alexis said. "Just relax, things will work out." Ashley shook her head and stood up.
"Where are you going?" Lauren asked.
"Back to New York." she replied.
"Ash no, let him go!" Dave pleaded. "It's what he wants..."
"Is it?" she asked. "I'm sorry, but I'm going!"
"Be careful," Alexis warned. "And call me when your plane lands." Ashley nodded and then hurried away to make the arrangements.
Six hours later Ashley landed in Pennsylvania and rented a car to make the drive to New York. Pennsylvania was the closest airport she could find on such short notice, so she'd snatched the ticket when it had become available by cancellation. And now she was on the freeway, headed towards New York hoping he'd be at the apartment.
("Four Thirty" by Sara Evans)
It's been so long
I should be used to this by now
Loneliness that keeps coming back around
The moon on my window
Casts a different light
On all these memories
Hey I know just what I need
That's you and in a hurry
If I got on the road right now
I'd see you....4:30