The scene begins with Anna sitting on the balcony of her penthouse apartment in New York. She's sitting at a table with a glass of wine and a photo album. It's the anniversary of her second wedding to her beloved Tony. The wine bottle, one of Tony's favorite vintages is also on the table.

As she thumbs through the pages of photos, tears fall from her eyes. The phone begins ringing inside.

Anna: Whoever it is can just leave a message. I don't feel like talking to anyone. I miss my Tony! Why was he taken from me?

She continues to look through the photo album, and drinks more wine. When the bottle is empty, she gets up and walks over to the railing of the balcony and looks over New York City.

Anna: I could just fall over this railing and end it all. I could see Tony in heaven.

But, she knows that Tony would never want her to do that. He would want her to live her life and perhaps find someone new. Anna knows that will never happen though.

She finally makes her way inside, and remembers the earlier phone call. She picks up the phone and hears the sound alerting her to a message.

Anna: Probably one of my old friends calling to see how I'm getting through this day.

Anna listens to the message. All she hears is a voice saying, "Anna." The message is cut off.

Anna: Oh, boy. I knew I shouldn't have finished that bottle of wine. That sounded like Tony, but it couldn't have been.

Anna makes her way to the bedroom and throws herself across the bed fully clothed. She cries herself to sleep.

***************************************************************

The scene opens with Anna waking up, wondering why she still has on her clothes and is lying on top of the bedspread. She has a headache, and she starts remembering the night before.

Anna: I'm certainly paying for my pity party last night. Why did I drink that bottle of wine? Even when Tony and I shared a bottle, I got a little tipsy. [The thought of Tony makes her cry again.] Enough Anna DiMera! You have a business to run! Get a shower and get dressed now!

Anna wipes the tears and heads for the shower.

****************************************************************

The scene opens with Anna in her office. She is finishing up a meeting with her assistant, Rose.

Anna: You'll get those checks out to all the charities I've chosen?

Rose: Yes, Anna. The same as I did last year on the anniversary of your...oh, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to bring up sad memories.

Anna: The anniversary of my second wedding to Tony is not a sad memory. His death is, but I make these donations every year to celebrate the man I love. Tony left me very well-off and my advertising agency is doing well. I admit, I was a selfish person when I was younger, but now I get such a good feeling helping out the less fortunate. [Anna chuckles] Besides, even I could never spend all the money I have.

Rose [getting up to leave]: I'll send them right out. Don't forget you have a meeting at 10:00 this morning. Do you want me to have your driver out front?

Anna: No, it's such a beautiful day and it's only a few blocks. I think I'll walk.

Ooohhhh...very interesting, Nole. Good job!

The scene begins with Anna walking out of the office building into the sunshine. The day is beautiful, and her spirits are lifted. As she walks along, she decides that perhaps she should start living life again. Several nice-looking men have asked her out, but she's always turned them down. Perhaps the next time, she'll say yes.

As she walks along, she starts feeling as though she's being watched.

Anna [chuckling]: So, now that I've decided to accept a date with someone, I start feeling like every man on the street is looking at me!

But, the feeling persists and she's not so sure it's a good feeling. She gets to her destination and hurries inside. Anna peeks out the door to see if anyone is watching her, or seems to be following her. No one she sees looks familiar. She goes to the elevators to go upstairs for her meeting.

******************************************************************

Anna's meeting is with Sam Fenn. He is a clothing designer with his own manufacturing company and wants Anna's company to provide the advertising.

Sam: Good morning, Mrs. DiMera. May I offer you something to drink?

Anna: Oh, please call me Anna. And some very strong coffee would be wonderful!

Sam: And you call me Sam.

Sam asks his secretary to bring coffee and they sit down. He has blonde, curly hair, a little long at the nape of the neck. He has dimples and striking green eyes.

Anna [thinking]: Well, he's not my Tony, but he is a very handsome man.

Sam is also thinking that Anna is a very beautiful women and he would like to get to know her better.

****************************************************************

Anna and Sam complete their business, and she gets up to leave.

Sam: I was wondering if you would like to have dinner with me some time.

Anna [remembering her thoughts from earlier]: That would be nice. How about one night this weekend?

Sam: Okay, Saturday night. I'll make reservations for 8:00 and pick you up around 7:30.

Anna: I'll see you then.

Anna leaves, wondering if she's really ready. She gives herself a pep talk all the way down the elevator, and out the building. But out on the street again, she feels as though she is being watched.

*****************************************************************

Anna returns to her office. Rose brings in her usual lunch, hands her her messages, and leaves. Anna starts checking her messages. As she picks up the phone to return a call, she suddenly remembers the message on her phone the night before.

Anna: Did that really happen? Perhaps I just dreamed it because I was missing Tony so much.

But the more Anna thinks about it, she's sure that the message was there, and that it sounded like Tony.

*******************************************************************

Anna lets herself into her apartment and goes straight to the phone. She picks it up and puts in her voice mail code.

Voicemail: You have no new messages. You have no saved messages.

Anna: What? I know I didn't erase that message. In fact, I had other messages on there that I had saved until I could return the calls. What on earth is going on?

Thanks! Boo and I were commiserating with each other about the loss of our boyfriend and how he could come back. I started with this scenario and finally decided to flesh it out more and post it. Hopefully, there will be more to come...

Dang it woman, chop chop!

Seriously, Nole, it's awesome! I really hope that you continue.

Anna is in a meeting with her senior staff. They are all arguing about the ads for a new client. Anna isn't paying attention, she's still thinking about the phone call and the missing message...

Terrence: So, Anna. What do you think?

Anna: What? Think about what?

Terrence: The ads we're doing for the new client.

Anna: Oh, I'm sorry. I guess I was a million miles away. I'm sure whatever you've come up with will be fine.

Terrence: But we haven't come to a decision. We have two different takes on the ads and we need your opinion.

Anna: Oh, okay. No, wait. I just can't do this right now. We'll meet again tomorrow. Right now, I have something to do.

She goes out to Rose's desk...

Anna: Rose, can you call my driver and have him meet me at the front of the building?

Rose: Of course, Anna. Aren't you feeling well?

Anna: I'm fine...I...I just need to go home for a bit.

****************************************************************

Anna's driver drops her off in front of her building...

Doorman: Good afternoon, Mrs. DiMera. You're home early.

Anna: Good afternoon, Ralph. I decided to take the rest of the afternoon off. You know, have a little "me" time.

Doorman: Well, we all deserve that every now and then. Oh, by the way. A gentleman came by asking for you today.

Anna: What was his name?

Doorman: He didn't say. He just said he'd try again.

Anna: What did he look like?

Doorman: Well, that's the odd part. He was wearing jeans and one of those hooded sweatshirts the kids are wearing. I think they call them hoodies. And it's so warm today, I don't know why he would need a sweatshirt. But he had the hood pulled down over the top part of his face. And he wore these large sunglasses. I just realized, I probably wouldn't recognize him again if he doesn't have on the same outfit.

Anna: Oh. Well, thanks for telling me. If he comes back by, could you try to get a name?

Doorman: Sure, Mrs. DiMera!

Anna: Thank you, Ralph.

Anna lets herself into her apartment and puts her purse on the table next to the door. She walks over to the phone. She picks it up and puts in her voice mail code again.

Voicemail: You have no new messages. You have no saved messages.

Anna: What could have happened to the message? And the other old messages on the voice mail?

She walks into her bedroom and gets the feeling that someone has been in there. The housekeeper doesn't come on Tuesday...

Anna: Okay, this is just strange. Maybe the housekeeper came a day early. But usually she leaves me a note.

Anna starts taking off her jewelry and goes to her jewelry box.

Anna: Why are these earrings out on the vanity? They're the diamond studs Tony gave me when we were engaged the first time. I haven't worn them in weeks.

Then she sees the edge of a piece of paper under the jewelry box. She pulls it out and unfolds it.

Anna [reading aloud]: Why are you giving Tony's money away?

Anna: Oh, my God!! What's going on?

Anna wakes up on the floor...

Anna: What am I doing down here? What happened?

Then she remembers the note...

Anna: I must have fainted. I wonder how long I was out?

She looks all around her for the note, but it's nowhere to be found.

Anna: Oh, my God...I'm going crazy. I'm hearing and seeing things that aren't there. Maybe I'm feeling guilt because I decided that maybe I'll start dating again. Yes, that must be it.

But a little voice in her head is telling her that she heard Tony's voice on the voice mail before she decided she would date again.

Anna walks into the office...

Anna: Good morning, Rose.

Rose [with a really big smile on her face]: Good morning, Anna.

Anna: What's with the smile, Rose? Do I have something on my face?

Rose: Nothing, nothing...I'm just in a good mood this morning.

Anna walks into her office and on her desk is a huge bouquet of roses...

Anna reads the card: Looking forward to Saturday night. Call me and we can firm up the plans. Sam

Anna: Oh, I had forgotten about Saturday night. Maybe I should call and cancel. I don't think I'm ready. No, Anna DiMera! You can't just hide yourself away. Tony has been gone for over two years. It's time you went out and had some fun.

She picks up the phone...

Anna: Rose, can you get me Sam Fenn on the phone?

Rose: Certainly, Anna.

Anna: And get that smirk off your face!

Rose announces that Sam Fenn is on the line...

Anna: Hello, Sam. The roses are beautiful.

Sam: I'm glad you like them. So...about Saturday night...is Elaine's okay?

Anna: Elaine's is perfect.

Sam: Okay, give me your address and I'll pick you up at 7:30 on Saturday.

Anna gives him her address, but still wonders if she's ready to go out with someone. A tear falls down her cheek, but she brushes it off.

I'm hooked! I hope the next installment comes soon.

I just found this and I'm hooked too. More please!

Anna is in her bedroom, getting dressed. There are clothes tossed all over her bed, but she's finally settled on the right outfit. There is a half-full glass of wine on the dresser.

Anna: [taking another gulp of wine] I don't know if I can do this. Why did I agree to go out with him? Oh, well, it's too late now. We'll go to dinner and I'll make some excuse like, "We have a working relationship. Dating wouldn't be appropriate."

She is going through her jewelry and finally decides that with her hair pulled up, the diamond studs Tony gave her would be perfect.

Anna: But is it right to wear these earrings if I'm going out with someone else?

Anna realizes that most of the jewelry she has was given to her by Tony, so she finally puts the diamond studs in her ears. She hears the buzzer and goes to the living room. She pushes the button...

Ralph the doorman: Mrs. DiMera? There's a Sam Fenn here to see you.

Anna: Okay, Ralph...s-s-s-s-s-end him up.

Ralph: Are you sure it's okay, Mrs. DiMera?

Anna: Yes, Ralph, it's fine.

****************************************************************

Anna and Sam are at Elaine's. Elaine herself has just been to the table to say hello to Sam.

Anna: Well, I'm suitably impressed. You actually know THE Elaine.

Sam [chuckling]: Well, I come here pretty often. I'm a bachelor and don't cook so Elaine and her staff do the cooking for me.

Anna: So, you brought me to someplace you feel comfortable, huh?

Sam: Yes, I admit it. I was a little nervous about going out with you, so I decided to keep things in my comfort zone.

Anna: Nervous? Why on earth would you be nervous?

Sam: Because you are an incredibly beautiful woman who also happens to own her own advertising agency.

Anna [blushing]: So, tell me about yourself, Sam.

Sam: Well, I'm sort of the black sheep of my family.

Anna: What does that mean?

Sam: My father was raised in Europe. He came from wealth, and when he came to the States, he built himself an empire. He has holdings all over the world, and is known for doing whatever he must to get what he wants. I didn't want to be a part of it. I always enjoyed drawing and then designing clothes. When I went to design school, my father was disappointed. He wanted me to go to business or law school...or even both. However, once I decided this was what I wanted to do, he wanted to back me in clothing design. When I told him I wanted to do it on my own, he went ballistic. But, some of his money is ill-gotten and I really didn't want a part of it. I still don't. My father and I are civil, but I want no part of his cut-throat world.

Anna: It sounds a lot like my husband's family.

Sam: Husband? I had no idea you were married!

Anna: I'm sorry, I should have explained more. My husband, Antony DiMera died a couple of years ago. He died in a terrible accident, and I wasn't even there when he died! [Anna sobs.]

Sam: Ahhh...that explains it.

Anna: Explains what?

Sam: The fact that your beautiful smile never touches your eyes. They always look so sad.

Anna doesn't say anything...

Sam: Wait a minute! Antony DiMera? Son of Stefano? You're THAT DiMera?

Keep it up noledays I can't wait to read if Sam is a Dimera or an enemy of the Dimera's.

Anna and Sam are just finishing their meals...

Anna: What do you mean by THAT DiMera?

Sam: Sorry, I didn't mean for that to sound the way it did. I knew Tony a long time ago. He is...was...a great guy! Like me, he was always struggling to get out from under his father's thumb.

Anna: Yes, he was...[Her lip starts to tremble and a tear threatens to fall from her eye.]

Sam: Oh, I didn't mean to upset you.

Anna: No, it's fine. I loved that man more than life itself, but I've decided it's been long enough. It's time to get on with my life.

Sam: I hope I can be a part of that. Now, how about dessert?

*****************************************************************

Anna and Sam are standing outside her door...

Anna: I had a very nice evening.

Sam: So did I...I'm sorry I upset you, though.

Anna: Don't worry about it. I'm taking it one day at a time.

Sam: I hope we can do this again, and soon.

Anna: I'd like that.

Sam leans over to kiss Anna...but she turns her head slightly and he only grazes her cheek.

Anna: Well, good night.

Sam: Good night.

*****************************************************************

Anna walks into the apartment and heads for her bedroom.

Anna: I did have a nice time. Maybe going out was good for me.

Suddenly she stops...horrified...The contents of her jewelry box has been strewn all over the dresser.

Anna: Oh, no! I've been robbed!

She goes to the phone to call the police. At that moment, she sees the single, long-stemmed rose on her pillow. Anna passes out again...

Fabulous! Keep it coming.

Thanks, MP!

Anna wakes up...

Anna: I'm on the floor again? This is getting old!

She chuckles to herself, but then remembers why she passed out.

Anna stands up, and looks around. The rose is gone...and the jewelry is back in the jewelry box.

Anna: I'm going crazy. That's the only explanation.

She changes into her nightgown and gets into bed.

Anna: I know I had a couple of glasses of wine at dinner. But I certainly wasn't drunk. And I hadn't even been drinking when I got the note.

She lays in bed, trying to decide what to do. Just as she is falling asleep she mumbles...

Anna: Yes, that's what I'll do. It's the only way.

*************************************************************

The next morning, Anna gets ready for work. With the time difference, she really should wait to make the call.

She walks into the office...

Rose: Good morning, Anna. [Another big smile on her face.]

Anna: Good morning, Rose. What does my schedule look like for the day?

Rose: Well, you have that meeting with Sam Fenn's people. Then, you have a meeting with the Proctor and Gamble people. They have some ideas they'd like to run by you about product placements in some television shows.

Anna: Okay, thanks. Can you hold all my calls for about a half hour?

Rose: Of course. [Another smirk.]

Anna walks into her office and gasps. There are vases of roses all over the room. Every color of rose she has ever seen...and some she hasn't. There is even a vase of roses the color of the one on her bed last night.

Anna: You mean the rose you thought you saw on the bed last night.

There is a large envelope on her desk, but she doesn't even bother to see who it's from. She's pretty sure the roses are from Sam.

She picks up the phone and this time, she dials the number herself. The phone rings three times on the other end. A sleepy voice says hello.

Anna: Roman? I need you!

This is soooooo good. Hee - Proctor & Gamble product placements!

And now we get Roman too! I always have liked the love/hate relationship/friendship of Anna and Roman.

I knew my buds would appreciate the product placement. And I felt it was time Roman got a decent SL.

Nole, when do you get vacation so you can devote yourself full time to writing? I can't wait for the next installment.

Thanks! And more than a day or two off work? I'd never catch up!

I went out after work tonight and drank two for one Margaritas so I won't be writing tonight (might forget all about Anna and put some of my own fantasies involving Tony...XXX... )...but I'm off the next two days...

Roman: Anna, is that you? How are you?

Anna: Yes, it's me...and I'm not doing too well.

Roman: Oh, that's right...your anniversary is around this time, isn't it?

Anna: Yes, it is...but that's not the problem...well, it may have something to do with it...oh, I don't know.

Roman: Anna...Anna...get a hold of yourself. Now, tell me what's wrong.

Anna proceeds to tell Roman about all the things that have been happening since the night she got the phone call.

Roman: Are you sure you didn't delete the message?

Anna: Yes, I'm sure! And I know I've gotten those notes, but then I pass out and they're gone when I wake up.

Roman: Okay, I believe you. What do you want me to do?

Anna: Can you please come to New York? Maybe do some of your police stuff and help me figure out what's going on?

Roman: Now, Anna...you know I don't have any jurisdiction in New York.

Anna [chuckling]: Since when has that ever stopped you...or any of the Brady boys?

Roman {chuckling]: Yeah, I guess you're right. I'll arrange to take off for a week or so. I'll call you and let you know when I'll be arriving.

Anna: Oh, Roman...I feel so much better knowing you're coming to help me.

****************************************************************

After she hangs up, Anna opens the card that came with all the roses. It says only one thing...

Anna [reading the card]: Did you have a good time last night? Well, that's short and to the point. And Sam didn't sign his name.

She picks up the phone and dials Sam's private line.

Sam: Sam Fenn.

Anna: Hello, Sam. I just wanted to thank you for the roses.

Sam: But you already thanked me when I sent them the other day.

Anna: No, I mean...didn't you send...I mean, I assumed you sent all these roses.

Sam: Well, I am sending something to you by courier, but it isn't roses. Why? Is someone trying to move in on my action? [He chuckles, then hears a gasp and the phone dropping.] Anna? Anna? Are you all right?

Anna has fainted again...

Sam hangs up the phone and runs out of his office. His staff members stand there wondering what's going on. He runs the whole way to Anna's office...

Rose: Hello, Mr. Fenn...Mr. Fenn? Is something wrong?

Sam rushes into Anna's office, where he finds her unconscious, slumped over her desk...

Sam: Anna! Anna! Rose, call 911!

Rose has come in behind Sam and heads for her desk to make the call...

Anna: Hmmmm...what is going on? Sam? What are you doing here?

Sam: It's okay...Rose is calling an ambulance.

Anna: I don't need an ambulance, I just fainted again.

Sam: Again? You fainted AGAIN? How many times has this happened?

Anna: I don't know...two or three times over the last few weeks.

Sam: And you've ignored it? You have to go to the hospital so they can find out why this is happening.

Anna: I know why it happens...Rose, hang up that phone!

Anna tells Sam about all that has happened, the call, the notes, the jewelry, the roses...Sam finally looks around the office and sees all of the roses...

Sam: Good lord! And you thought I sent them?

Anna: Well, the note asked if I had a good time last night and...

Sam: Let me see that note.

This time the note is still there...Anna had fallen on it when she fainted.

Sam: Okay, we need to call the police. Someone is stalking you.

Anna: I've already called someone I trust...my ex-husband.

Sam: Your ex-husband? Tony? Anna...

Anna: No, my first husband...Roman Brady. He's a detective in Salem and he's coming here to help me find out what's going on.

Sam: Well, include me in this...I'm concerned for your safety, and I love a good mystery.

Anna: I'm just glad someone else saw all this. The other things have disappeared and I was really afraid I was going insane.

Sam grabs Anna and holds her for a very long time...

Sam: Come on...I'm taking you home. You've had enough excitement for the day.

Anna: Yes, I do believe I would feel better at home.

Rose: I'll call the driver and have him meet you out front.

Anna: Thank you, Rose.

Anna gathers her things and she and Sam leave the office...

*****************************************************

The driver drops them in front of her building...

Anna: Jerry, can you take Sam back to his office?

Sam: No way. I'm coming up with you. I'll fix you dinner and make sure you're all right before I leave.

Anna: That's not necessary.

Sam: It is...and no questions. Let's go.

They walk up to the door, where a different doorman opens the door for them...

Anna: Hello, Tommy. Where's Ralph? I hope everything is okay.

Tommy: Good afternoon, Mrs. DiMera. Ralph is fine. His granddaughter has a dance recital this afternoon, and you know he never misses anything his grandchildren are in.

Anna: Well, I suppose he'll have a lot of pictures next time I see him. [She chuckles.]

Tommy: That he will, Mrs. DiMera...that he will!

************************************************************

Anna opens the door to her apartment and gasps. A large white envelope is on the floor just in front of the door. She picks it up and looks at it suspiciously. It only has her name and address on the front...

Anna: Oh, no! I wonder what will be in this one. You open it, Sam...I just don't think I can do it.

Sam: Well...um...I...um...you see...I...um...I didn't know what you'd been going through...um...this I what I sent to you today...

Anna: Oh? [Anna opens the envelope and pulls out a menu from Elaine's. A note is attached.] So you can remember our first date. Sam.

Anna: Well...that's original...

Sam: I know, it's corny...but I had already sent roses...oops, sorry.

Anna: That's okay. You don't have to walk on eggshells around me, you know.

Sam: Okay...well, I had already sent roses and it was too soon for jewelry, so I had Elaine give me one of her menus.

Anna: First date? That assumes there will be more.

Sam: I certainly hope so. Now, show me the kitchen.

Anna: It's right through there, but I'm not much of a cook, so I don't know if there's anything in there you can use. We could just call and have something delivered.

Sam: No way. I'm making dinner for you. I'll make a list and have whatever I need delivered. Now...you just go a take a nice, hot bubble bath.

Anna: How did you know I love bubble baths, especially when I'm stressed?

Sam: You've got that "bubble bath" look. [Sam gives her a wink, and Anna blushes.]

Awesome awesome awesome job, Nole! You do know that all your hard work is now property of NBC, right? Who knows we may see this s/l soon!

Thanks! And they can have it...no charge...as long as they bring Tony back!

Anna walks into the kitchen and sees Sam busily chopping vegetables. He hands her a glass of wine and she sits at the counter to watch...

Anna: So, that's what vegetables look like before they end up on my plate.

Sam: That's right...[He smiles.] Are you feeling better?

Anna: Oh, yes...so much better. And this glass of wine doesn't hurt. Thank you.

Sam: Thank me? For what?

Anna: For being there, making dinner, having a glass of wine ready for me...no one has taken care of me like that since...

Sam: You're welcome, I'm glad to do it. You do realize I'm falling hard for you, don't you?

Anna: Oh! Well, I like you, too, Sam...but I don't know if I'm ready...

Sam: I understand completely. We'll take things slow.

***************************************************************

Anna and Sam have just finished dinner and having coffee...

Anna: I may just have to hire you. That dinner was delicious, and so is this coffee!

Sam: It's a secret ingredient.

Anna: Think you might tell me one day? My coffee always tastes awful. Thank goodness for Starbucks and Rose.

Sam: Well, play your cards right and maybe I will tell you...one day.

Sam gets up and walks over to Anna. He takes her hand and pulls her up. He kisses her and this time Anna lets him. It's a slow, romantic kiss, and Anna thinks perhaps she likes it just a little too much.

Anna [pulling away]: Well, it's getting late and I've had a really exhausting day...

Sam: Is that a hint for me to leave?

Anna: Well...

Sam: What about the kitchen?

Anna: Just leave it...the housekeeper comes tomorrow.

Anna walks Sam to the door and he gives her one more kiss...this time a very quick kiss...

Just after Sam leaves, the phone rings...

Anna: Oh, no...why did I make Sam leave? [She picks up the receiver with some trepidation...] H-h-h-hello?

Roman: Anna, it's Roman. Are you okay?

Anna: Yes, now that I know it's you calling.

Roman: Has something else happened?

Anna tells him about the roses in her office and the note.

Roman: So, you finally decide to get out there, and now someone is playing games? Who do you think it could be?

Anna: I don't know. I just want it to stop.

Roman: Well, the reason I'm calling is that I got the time off. My flight arrives at 5:00 tomorrow afternoon.

Anna: Oh, that's wonderful! I'll have my driver pick you up and bring you to the apartment.

Roman: Well, I thought I'd stop by my hotel first to drop off my bags.

Anna: Don't be ridiculous! You'll stay here, in my guest room. I'll have the housekeeper get it ready tomorrow.

Roman: Are you sure it's no trouble?

Anna: Of course not! In fact, I'll feel a lot safer with you here.

Anna is pacing her apartment making sure everything is in place when she hears the buzzer...

Anna: Yes?

Ralph: A Mr. Brady here to see you, Mrs. DiMera. Shall I send him up?

Anna: Yes, Ralph. Thank you.

Anna opens the door and stands there waiting impatiently. Roman finally steps off the elevator...

Anna: Roman! I am so glad to see you!

Roman: [Gives Anna a peck on the cheek, then stands back, holding her by her arms.] Anna! You look just as beautiful as ever!

Anna: Thanks. You're looking well...come in, come in...

Roman: Wow! This is a nice place. What a view!

Anna: Well, I like it.

The buzzer sounds again...

Anna: Yes, Ralph?

Ralph: Mr. Fenn is here to see you. Should I tell him you're out?

Anna: No, no, Ralph...send him on up. I'm expecting him.

Ralph: Okay Mrs. DiMera.

Roman: Mr. Fenn?

Anna: Oh, I hope you don't mind. I invited Sam to join us. He saw the roses and the last note.

*************************************************************

Anna opens the door and waits for the elevator to arrive. Sam steps off and comes in. He gives her a quick peck on the cheek.

Anna: Sam Fenn, Roman Brady. Roman, meet Sam. Why don't I go get the bottle of wine I opened and some glasses?

Anna goes to the kitchen while Roman and Sam size each other up.

Roman: So, you're the new man in Anna's life.

Sam: And you're the old man...

Both men are laughing when Anna comes back with the wine.

Anna: I've made reservations at this little Italian restaurant just up the street. But we have time for a glass of wine.

************************************************************

The three of them enter Little Italy...

Roman: Well, it looks like you picked out a very romantic restaurant for the three of us.

Anna: Roman! I know it's a little dark and with the candles on the table...well, I just love the food here. And it's not as loud as some restaurants get, so I felt we could talk and hear each other.

Roman: It's fine, Anna. I just had to tease you a little.

Sam: Yes, and they really do have wonderful food here.

The hostess seats them and they pick up their menus. Sam is the only one facing the door, so Anna and Roman don't notice when a man from their past enters the restaurant. The man is seated and immediately puts his menu in front of his face....

Man: Good, she's brought in the cavalry...

I don't normally like fanfic, but since I read Theresa's when she was doing it, I felt obligated to support a friend. And I know you'd read mine if I had one. ; ) I just don't like the idea of NBC having the rights to my stuff.


That reminds me! About a week ago, I discovered that there is a designer rose called the "Deidre Hall rose". It's amazingly beautiful. I spotted it when I was making my color montages. I know how our inquisitive minds work, so here's a picture:




I got a giggle out of both.


Back to reading!

I was just thinking that would be your response if I told you. We are around each other WAY too much.


Can't wait to read more!

I am really enjoying your fanfic Nole! Great stuff.

Thanks, my friends! More to come...

Anna, Sam and Roman order drinks and as usual Roman orders a beer...

Anna: Roman, you and your beer. They have excellent wine here, and some really good specialty drinks.

Roman: But Anna, nothing beats an ice cold beer at the end of the day. By the way, Ma sends her love. The whole family says hello and Steve said if we need him, he's here.

Anna: That sounds like Steve. Always ready to jump in.

Roman: So, about the notes and the roses. Our best bet it to find out which florist delivered the roses, and find out what they have on the sender. Someone would have had to sign for all those roses when they were delivered.

Anna: I'm sure it was Rose. She had a really big smile on her face when I came in. I think she really feels bad now, though. She didn't know they weren't from Sam.

Roman: Do you think Rose will remember the name of the florist?

Anna: I'm sure she will. Rose notices everything and she has the memory of an elephant.

Sam: So, Anna checks with Rose about the florist tomorrow morning. What next?

Roman: Well, when we get the name of the florist, I'll go talk to them. They have to remember someone who ordered so many vases of roses sent to the same office. And you said one of the vases had a rose the same color as the one left on your bed?

Anna: Yes, but that rose wasn't that unusual. But there were some really unusual colors of roses delivered to my office.

Roman: Well, it's a starting point. I'll see what I can learn tomorrow. In the meantime, here comes our food and I'm starved!

************************************************************

They finish their meals and when the check comes, Roman and Sam argue over who will pay it. Anna signs the check while they argue...

Anna: Give it up, boys. I have an account here and the meals are on me.

Roman: Anna, I should have paid.

Sam: No, Roman, you're a guest in our city, I should have paid.

Anna: Will you boys just give it a rest? Let's go.

They head out and just as they get to the door, Anna does a double-take as they pass a table by the wall...

Anna: Roman...did you see...?

She turns back to look, but there is no one sitting at the table after all.

Roman: See what?

Anna: Well...I'm not sure now...my eyes must be playing tricks on me...

Roman: What did you see?

Anna: I thought I saw someone we both know, but there's no one at that table after all...Never mind...it must be the stress of all that's going on.

Anna knows what she saw, but it is impossible. After all, he's dead isn't he?

The man she saw has ducked under the table until the trio left...

Man: Wow! That was close!

I feel like such a fangirl. When Roman said Steve, I blurted out "Yay, Steve!". But I just miss everyone so much.

And I think I know who the mystery guy is. Can't wait to find out if I'm right.

Anna and Roman enter the office...

Rose: Good morning, Anna. Who's your friend?

Anna: Rose, this is Roman Brady, my first husband and a detective with the Salem Police Department. He's come to help me figure out what's going on.

Rose: Welcome, Detective Brady. I'm glad you're here.

Roman: Please, call me Roman. And I need to ask you a few questions.

Rose: An interrogation? How exciting!

Anna: Rose!

Roman: Did you sign for all those roses that were delivered the other day?

Rose: Of course I did. Why? Did I do something wrong?

Anna: No, Rose.

Roman: No, in fact, Anna tells me you are very observant and remember everything. Can you remember the name of the florist?

Rose: Let's see...it was Park Avenue Flowers and Gifts.

Anna: Are you sure?

Rose: Yes, I'm sure. It took three delivery guys several trips to bring them in. They wore the name of the florist on their shirts.

Roman: That's great! Can you get me an address?

Rose goes online and looks up the florist. She prints out the address and phone number and gives it to Roman.

Roman: Thanks, Rose. You just may be the one who helps solve this mystery!

Anna: Okay, let's get over there now.

Roman: No, Anna. You are going to stay right here. I don't need a partner to go see a florist.

Anna: But Roman!

Roman: But nothing. Rose, make sure Anna stays put, okay?

Rose: Sure thing, Roman. I'll have Anna's driver meet you out front.

*************************************************************

Roman arrives at Park Avenue Flowers and Gifts. He goes inside.

Roman: Hello, I'd like to speak to the manager.

Employee: Is there a problem, sir?

Roman: No, I just need to find out who sent some flowers to someone the other day.

Employee. I don't know if we can give out that information, but I'll get the manager.

**************************************************************

Manager: Hello, how may I help you?

Roman: A friend of mine had 15 vases of roses delivered the other day.

Manager: Yes, I remember that order...I remember thinking how romantic it was.

Roman: So, you can help me?

Manager: Well, why do you need to know? You aren't a jealous husband are you?

Roman: No, ma'am. My friend is being stalked and the roses were sent by her stalker.

Manager: Oh, no! That's terrible! Let me check on the order.

The manager goes to the computer and hits a few keys...

Manager: Oh, yes. Here it is. An order for 15 vases of roses, all different colors, to an Anna DiMera at DiMera Advertising.

Roman: So, who ordered them?

Manager: Well, they were ordered online and the customer used a credit card.

Roman: Okay, what's the name on the credit card?

Manager: Let's see...it looks like a business credit card...D.A. Enterprises.

Roman: Do you have an address?

Manager: I should...but there isn't one here.

Roman: Does that happen often?

Manager: No...the order wouldn't have gone through without all that information. It's like it was deleted later...

**************************************************************

Roman calls Anna from the car.

Roman: It looks like someone from D.A. Enterprises ordered the roses.

Anna: Oh, my God!

Roman: What's wrong?

Anna: That's the name of my company!

Is Roman actually going to know how to do his job in your stories?

You know, I did start to have him do typical SPD things...but I decided it's the air in Salem that makes all the cops idiots. I think he'll be pretty smart as long as he's not in Salem. Of course, that may be because I work closely with a lot of real cops and know what Roman SHOULD be doing.

So it's the air? That explains why all the case outside of Salem always seem to get solved.

And I'm not complaining. It'd be nice for someone in Salem to have a brain for once. Especially considering how long Roman's been a cop. You'd expect at least him to know what he's doing.

Roman is still on the phone with Anna and hears her start to hyperventilate. He whispers to the driver...

Roman: Call Rose and tell her to go into Anna's office and try to calm her down.

Driver: Yes, sir.

Roman: Anna, calm down. Get a hold of yourself. Anna...Anna...

Anna: Oh, God, Roman! Does this mean I've been doing these things myself while I'm in some kind of blackout?

Roman: I don't think so. Don't worry, we'll get to the bottom of all this.

*************************************************************

Roman enters the office and goes straight to Anna. She's still distraught...

Rose: I got her some water, but I'm wondering if she needs something stronger.

Anna: Roman, Roman...what is going on? How could the company credit card have been used to pay for all those roses?

Roman: Rose, can you contact the credit card company and get a printout of all the activity?

Rose: Sure, Roman. I'll get right on it.

Roman holds Anna and tries to comfort her.

***************************************************************

Rose: Roman, I got the printout. What should I be looking for?

Roman: I'm not sure, but I'll know it when I see it. Who has a company credit card?

Rose: Well, I do, of course, to get things for the office. And all of the executives have one.

Roman: Get them all in here. I want to talk to them.

Rose: Why don't I call them to the conference room? There's more room there.

Roman: Fine.

***************************************************************

Roman gets Anna calmed down for the most part, and they go to the conference room. All of the executives are there.

Roman: I'm sorry to pull you all away from your work, but this is very important.

Terrence: I don't mean to be rude, but just who are you?

Anna: I'm sorry. This is my friend, Detective Roman Brady. I've been having some...well, some weird things have been happening, and he is here to help me find out what's going on.

Roman: Thanks, Anna. I needed to talk to everyone with a company credit card.

Terrence: Are you accusing someone here of using the credit card fraudulently?

Roman: No, that's not it. Someone used the company credit card to order 15 vases of roses to be sent to Anna. We just need to know if anyone's card has gone missing, or if they left it someplace.

Roman looks around the room, and sees one woman who looks uncomfortable...

Roman: Miss...you in the purple blouse...

Anna: That's Denise. She's been here forever. I trust her...

Denise [starts to cry]: Oh, Anna! I went out to a club the other night. I was with friends, and we were all sitting at a table together. I danced with quite a few men, and I left my purse at the table. One of my friends was always there! But once, when I came back, no one was there, and the waiter was removing glasses from the table. He said something like, "Thanks for the tip," and then left. Later, I realized my purse was open and my wallet was missing.

Roman: Did you ask anyone about it?

Denise: I went to the manager and told them what had happened. I wasn't really blaming the waiter...I just thought he might have seen something. When I asked to talk to him, I learned that no one there matched his description. In fact, they don't use waiters, only waitresses!

Denise begins to sob, and Anna goes over to comfort her...

Anna: Maybe this means I haven't been doing all this...

Roman and Anna explain why they were asking about the card and some of the things that have been happening.

Roman: No one's blaming you, Denise. In fact, you may be able to help us find out who's doing these things to Anna. What did the man look like?

Denise: Well, he had on black slacks and a white shirt with a black bow tie.

Roman: What about his face?

Denise: I'm sorry...I know i sound like a snob, but when I saw him there and he was cleaning off the table, I really didn't look. I only noticed his clothes because I was worried he was at the table, and once I realized he was only the waiter, I didn't really pay attention.

Denise starts to cry and Anna goes over to comfort her.

Anna: It's okay, really. If anything, it makes me feel a lot better that someone stole the company card and that I wasn't doing these things.

*************************************************************

Anna and Roman are in her office when Rose's voice comes over the intercom...

Rose: Sam is here, Anna. Want me to send him in?

Anna: Yes, Rose. Then you can go on home.

Rose: Thanks, Anna.

Sam comes walking through the door, but doesn't see Roman sitting to the side on the sofa...

Sam: There's the most beautiful girl in the world. How are you feeling today?

Anna [blushing]: I'm fine, Sam. We may have learned something today.

Sam: Really? What is it?

He then notices Roman who starts to explain what they've learned...

Anna [Interrupting]: That's enough about my problems, Roman. Why don't we go to the bar downstairs and have a drink?

Roman [Giving Anna a strange look]: Sure. How about you, Sam?

Sam: I'd love to join you.

The three of them go downstairs and have a few drinks. Sam goes home and Anna and Roman go to her apartment...

Roman: Is it my imagination, or do you not want Sam to know what's going on?

Anna: I don't know. This all started about the time I met Sam. I'm not saying I think he has anything to do with it, but just to be safe, let's not tell him everything we know.

Roman: Sure. Whatever you say.

Still reading. Still enjoying.

Thanks...tonight I couldn't come up with much. I've been acting supervisor for the last week and a half and between doing my own reports and reading other's reports (I always have to review a few, but it's been reading all of them for a while), I'm suffering from a little brain overload. Hopefully with the long weekend, I'll get back to the subject at hand...

I am loving this story!

When they get back to the apartment, Anna has a glass of wine and Roman has his usual beer...

Anna: I don't know how you can drink that stuff!

Roman [Takes another swig]: Ahhhhhhh...nothing better than an ice cold brew after a long, hard day.

Anna [laughing]: You know, that's why we couldn't stay married. You're all beer and bar nuts and I'm Champagne and caviar.

Roman: But it was fun there for a while, wasn't it.

Anna: Yes...I guess it was. If Stefano hadn't intervened, who knows? Maybe I could have gotten you used to Champagne and caviar.

Roman: Or I could have taught you to love beer and bar nuts.

They're silent for a moment...

Anna: Well, I need to get to bed. I still have to go to work in the morning.

Roman: Wake me up, too. I'm going with you.

Anna: That's not necessary.

Roman: It is necessary. I'm not letting you out of my sight until we figure this out.

*************************************************************

Anna and Roman arrive at the office...

Rose: Good morning, Anna. I see you have your hunky policeman with you again.

Anna: Yes, Rose. I'm stuck with him for the time being.

Roman: Oh, you know you love it.

Anna: What's on my calendar for today?

Rose: Well, you have that meeting at Sam's office this morning. You're meeting with his staff to go over the ideas the agency has come up with for their advertising. It's at 10:00.

Anna: Well, I guess I have just enough time to do a little paperwork and then I...I mean we...will walk over there.

Roman: Are you sure it's safe for you to be out walking on the street?

Anna: Roman! New York may not be Salem, but it's not dangerous to be out on the street.

Roman: I meant because of what's been going on.

Anna: Oh, that. Well, it's only a few blocks and it's a beautiful day. Besides, I'll have my bodyguard with me.

**************************************************************

Anna and Roman walk out of the building and head for Sam's office. After about a block, Anna gets the feeling of being watched again...

Anna: Roman, do you feel that?

Roman: What?

Anna: I don't know. I feel like someone is watching me. I felt it before when I was walking to Sam's office.

They both look around. Anna sees someone, but before she can say anything he disappears...

Anna: Roman! I think I just saw...no, it's not possible.

Roman: Who?

Anna: Remember the other night as we were leaving the restaurant I saw someone I thought I knew. Well, actually we both knew. But when I looked back, no one was there. It was the same person. But it can't be possible, he's dead.

Roman: Anna, you know perfectly well that if we are dealing with the DiMera's "dead" doesn't mean anything. Now who was it?

Anna: It looked like...well, it looked like Bart.

Roman: What? Bart? No. I know he's dead. I was there. I saw the body.

As they walk along, a familiar person walks out of the office building he had rushed into when Anna spotted him.

Bart: That was close! I need to get a disguise. Maybe I could dress up as a homeless man. No, that wouldn't work in this part of the city. Maybe a character from one of my favorite movies. Yeah! That's it. I'll have to find a costume shop. Maybe I could be Paul Newman in The Sting. My mother always told me I looked like Paul Newman. Too bad Rolf isn't here to help me.

That's EXACTLY who I thought it was too.

I figured the comment would tip off the loyal Bart fans...

I love Bart!! Hooray! Are we going to get Rolf too?