Title: The Gift of Love
Author: CRene
Rating: PG
Summary: Belle moves on after years of pinning away for Shawn Brady, but days before her wedding to
another man gifts from a mysterious stranger remind her of the man she had lost.
Chapter One
Looking outside seeing the glistening white snow fall upon Salem, she couldn’t help but remember this time
ten years ago. Being seventeen and in love was the only thing that mattered during that time and now
things were different.
“Are you thinking about the past,” her best friend asked from behind her.
“I have told my self over and over that I need to forget him,” Belle replied.
“You have, though, you are marrying Tyler in a couple of weeks. He loves you and I know you love him,”
Miriam Lockhart explained.
“I do love him. He is so wonderful,” Belle stated.
“But your heart still belongs to Shawn,” Mimi asked.
“We were seventeen, Mimi. How are you ever supposed to get over your first love. I lost my one true love that
night.”
Mimi and Belle were wrapping the Christmas presents they had brought that day at Salem Place at the
Black penthouse. It was just one week before Christmas 2010 and Belle was not only concentrating on
Christmas this year, but also her wedding to Tyler Montgomery a week after that.
A knock on the door broke her dreaming of the perfect wedding to the man who held her heart.
“Belle, there is a package for you,” Marlena said walking in.
“Who is it from,” Mimi wondered.
“Let me open it,” Belle stated ripping the wrapping paper away from the box.
Picking up the Christmas ornament from the box, Belle was in awe. The ornament was a glistening gold
ball with a red ruby in the middle of it. The gold and red sparkled in the light which made it even more
beautiful.
“What does the card say,” Marlena asked.
“It says, To see the light in your eyes when you look inside I remember the smile on your face and the love
within your heart. Love, Secret Admirer.”
“That doesn’t make sense,” Mimi stated.
“Tyler is so sweet,” Belle replied.
The man stood outside of the penthouse building looking up hoping she would realize who had sent her the
gift. If only she understood the importance of the ruby. who was the man? Would Belle figure it out?
Chapter Two
It was two days before Christmas, the streets of Salem were covered with snow and the spirit of the day
Jesus was born was felt throughout the city.
Belle, Mimi, Hope Brady, and Chloe Lane were sitting at the Brady Pub enjoying their late lunch. They had
spent the day going through last minute wedding plans for Tyler Montgomery and Isabella Black.
Shawn Brady Sr. went over to the piano trying to have Chloe come and join him for a Christmas Carol. He
began to play the piano like a pro that he was, his fingers sliding g on the keys like a master. Chloe stood
next to the piano in her Christmas spirit ready to sing from her heart the way Brady Black had taught her
as she sang a classic Christmas song.
The crowd of people began to cheer for the young brunette who still had a voice like an angel. She had made
her dream come true because of one man, and that one man was no longer present on this earth to share her
joy.
“Amazing,” the man said standing in the doorway of the Brady Pub.
“My love,” Belle shouted running into the arms of the man she loved.
“Isabella,” he said wrapping his arms around his most precious princess.
“Tyler, I didn’t think you would be here so soon,” Belle said kissing him lightly on the cheek.
“I took the rest of the day off to help you with the wedding plans,” he replied.
“How lucky do you have it,” Hope stated. “When Bo and I got married he made me do all of the work and
make all the choices.”
“I am very lucky,” Belle smiled.
“Now if only the rest of us could find our Prince Charming,” Mimi commented.
“One day when the right man comes upon your beautiful face and your sparkling personality they will be the
luckiest man alive next to me,” Tyler explained.
“Are you sure you don’t have a brother,” Mimi asked.
“Sorry,” Tyler replied.
“Belle, there is package for you,” Caroline Brady stated walking in from outside.
“Another one,” Mimi wondered. “Tyler, can I marry you? Forget Belle.”
“Let’s see what this one is,” Belle stated unwrapping the small package. Inside of the package was a CD
with the words Play across it.
Belle went behind the bar and put the CD inside of the stereo and begin to hear a song she had not heard in
years, "I'll Be" by Edwin McCain.
“Belle, who is the one person who played that song for you,” Mimi questioned.
“Remember the night of the Last Blast of our Junior year,” Chloe asked Belle. “He requested that song for
you.”
“It can’t be,” Belle shouted.
“It could be,” Hope stated.
“NO,” Belle shouted running out of the Brady Pub.
She stood outside with her short sleeve shirt looking around hoping she would catch a glimpse of the boy
who broke her heart many many years ago. The cold of winter began to make her quiver, but she had to find
him.
“Where are you,” she screamed. “Why now?”
Belle fell to the ground crying. Finally after all these years of waiting for him, praying that he would come
back to her, he had now chosen the most inconvenient time of her life. She had finally moved on, letting
someone else hold the key to her heart, and he had come back to Salem. Would he interrupt her upcoming
nuptials to the new man in her life and her heart?
Chapter Three
“Isabella,” Tyler said taking his fiancee in his arms lifting her up from the ground. “Do you love me?”
“Of course,” Belle sobbed.
“Will you still marry me if he was to come back in our lives,” Tyler wondered.
“Of course.”
“Then there is nothing to worry about. I love you with all of my heart and you say you love me, in which I
believe. In less than two weeks you will walk down that aisle to marry the man that would die for you, that
would never leave you. I will always be there for you.”
“How long did it take you to rehearse that one,” Belle smiled.
“Since I found out about the other gift,” Tyler stated kissing Belle on the forehead.
“I love you Tyler Colby Montgomery,” Belle whispered.
“I love you, Isabella Rene Black,” he murmured in her ear nibbling on it just a bit to make her feel the
emotion of desire.
Standing a few feet away from them hiding behind the fence was the man who through the years had
realized what he was missing and finally decided to have what was rightfully his - Isabella Black.
“I should get you inside,” Tyler told Belle breaking away from her.
“I don’t want to go back. I have better ideas,” Belle seductively commented pulling him closer to her by
grabbing onto the belt loops of his khaki pants he was wearing.
“Isabella, I don’t believe you,” Tyler laughed.
“I think we need to have a rehearsal for the honeymoon,” she whispered kissing his neck.
“What about your family and friends?”
“They won’t even notice we left,” Belle replied grabbing his hand pulling him down the sidewalk.
Two hours later, Belle was buttoning her shirt from an incredible lovemaking session with her fiance. He
did things to her that no other man had been able to do since Shawn had disappeared. Tyler had made Belle
feel desirable and needed. She needed Tyler and wanted Tyler, but why was she feeling a bit ashamed this
one time. Deep within her heart she felt like she was cheating on Shawn Douglas Brady.
“That is ridiculous,” she mumbled.
“What is that, honey,” Tyler said bringing his hand to her back massaging it gently.
“Nothing. I think I am going to take a walk,” Belle stated standing up grabbing her hip huggers leaving the
room.
“Isabella, please be careful,” he shouted hearing the door slam.
Tyler knew that if Shawn Brady was to come back to Salem, he would have problems keeping his fiancee in
his life. Would his Isabella run back to Shawn or would she stay with him?
Belle walked on the docks remembering that cold December night ten years ago. They were walking hand
and hand that night when Shawn had asked her if she wanted some hot chocolate. He gave her quick kiss on
the lips mouthing the three words she longed to hear.
“Why did you leave,” Belle asked breaking out of the trance.
“I love you,” she heard the voice.
“Shawn,” she shouted.
She began to wander the docks to find that voice she knew she well. It may have been ten years since she
had heard him, but she knew his voice like she knew her own.
“Shawn,” she yelled catching a shadow running.
Chapter Four
"Shawn, wait. Shawn," Belle screamed chasing after the shadow.
She had finally caught up to the man she had seen, but once she grabbed his arm swinging him around, she
knew she was wrong.
"Belle," he said. "I'm sorry."
"Bo, I thought you were someone else," Belle stated.
"You thought I was Shawn. I know I heard you," Bo explained.
"It's just with all the gifts, I know he is here. I just know he is back."
"Belle, what if he did come back?"
"What do you mean?"
"What about Tyler?"
"I love Tyler very much. No matter what I will marry Tyler Montgomery," Belle proclaimed. "Even if Shawn
Douglas Brady comes back!"
"When your parents died Hope and I promised you that no matter what happens that we would always be
there for you. We will keep that promise until the day that we die," Bo said.
"It will be four years next month since their plane crashed. I thought I would die when Shawn disappeared
years ago, but with Brady and my parents there to support me, I was able to get through it. But once the
three of them parished that night, I didn't know what I would do. You and Hope became my surrogate
parents. I will always cherish you and Hope for helping me get through such a crucial time in my life."
"Belle, you have always been like a daughter to us and you will always be. When you asked me to walk you
down the aisle for your wedding to Tyler I was honored. I am still honored. I love you, Isabella Black," Bo
cried taking the young woman in his arms seeing the tears rolling down her eyes.
He knew she was remembering the day of her parents and Brady's funeral. She was a wreck the day they
were laid to rest. That day was the day Hope and Bo made the promise that no matter what they would
take care of Isabella Black.
"I love you and Hope so much," Belle cried.
"Let's get you back home," Bo said.
"Tyler is probably wondering where I am."
"I better get you back."
Ten minutes later they had reached Belle's apartment. Belle knew Bo was right about so many things. She
had always counted on Bo and Hope and since her parents cherished it was even more.
"When are Eric and Sami arriving in Salem," Bo asked.
"Sami should be here tomorrow for she could spend Christmas with Will. Eric will be arriving three days
after that."
"Look is that another package," Bo said pointing down to the box at her door.
Opening the box knowing it had to be from Shawn, she uncovered a Salem Panthers basketball jersey with
the number twenty-four.
"That was Shawn's," Bo stated.
"I know. See this rip right here it was from the last game he played when Phillip grabbed during the game to
block the punch from the point guard on the Oakdale Raiders.
A block away the young man watched the view in front of him. He knew that his father would make sure
Belle would be safe for the moment. He was waiting for the perfect moment to make his appearance. When
would he walk back into his first love's life? What would she do?
Chapter Five
It was Christmas morning in Salem and families were spending the day together celebrating the birth of
Christ. All over the world this day was sacred to so many and so tragic for others. Others who had lost loved
ones over the years were aching for the ones that could not be there with them today, but knew they spirits
were watching over them.
Isabella Black was sitting on the couch of the penthouse where she grew up in remembering the years gone
bye spending Christmas with her parents and Brady here.
Or was it another person she was missing at this time of the year. He had meant so much to her many many
years ago. Growing up there wasn’t a Christmas that they didn’t see each other talk to each other. Shawn
was the one person she could count on other than her brother, Brady. Now after all these years and
memories later, Belle had to move on.
She went through the penthouse finding everything she could that reminded her of Shawn Douglas Brady.
Before she married the man she truly loved in a week she would have to let go of Shawn, releasing him from
her heart. Even though she knew that tossing away the mementos would not erase the memories she had to
start somewhere. Finally the gifts she had received the last few days were there in the trash can except one
thing she could not part with.
Belle had to get ready to head over to Bo and Hope’s for Christmas where she would spend the rest of the
day with the family that had taken her in when she had lost hers. Everyone would be smiling and laughing,
but they knew deep within their hearts it wasn’t the same without Shawn or Marlena.
Opening the penthouse door to leave there he stood. He stood there about to knock when the door flew open.
She was an angel. She was his angel. He looked into those crystal blue eyes that reached inside of her soul.
He had to be there for her. He had to find her. This was the moment. The moment of truth had arrived.
Chapter Six
“What are you doing here,” she asked not allowing him inside of the penthouse.
“Shawn is in town,” he stated pushing himself through the doorway.
“I know he has made his presence known through gifts,” Belle replied shutting the door walking up behind
him.
“What if he finds out about our past,” he asked.
“What I would like to know is where he has been these past ten years,” Belle wondered.
“You are not worried about what he will do when he finds out that we were more than friends before he
disappeared,” he questioned.
“Phillip, he is never going to find out about that night,” Belle ordered.
“You and I shared something incredible that night before he disappeared.”
“And I have told you time and time again it was a mistake.”
“What if he found out and that is why he left,” Phillip asked.
“No! I have told before that he could not have known. Nobody knows other than you and I and that is how I
want to keep it. I have also told you before that I want nothing to do with you and that is how I want to keep
it. Now get out.”
Phillip stared into Belle’s eyes feeling his heart bursting. All these years he had held deep feelings of love
for Isabella Brady, but his best friend was the lucky one. Before he left the penthouse he boldly reached over
pulling Belle into his arms and kissed her. Their lips meeting passionately, his desire for her ripped
through him leaving the little hairs behind his neck standing up. The sweet taste of her lips on his made
him feel things he hadn’t felt since that night they made love.
“What is going on here,” he yelled from the doorway.
“Tyler,” Belle said gaining her composure. “It’s not what you think.”
“It looks like you were kissing Phil,” Tyler replied.
“Well, we were. It’s not what you think,” Belle commented. “Let me tell you the truth, the whole truth.”
“No, don’t,” Phillip shouted.
“Tell me what,” Tyler questioned.
“I told you I lost my virginity to Shawn, but it’s not the truth. I lost it to Phillip the night before Shawn
disappeared,” Belle explained.
“You mean that was the reason Shawn left,” Tyler wondered.
“I don’t know,” Belle said. “Nothing has happened between Phillip and I since that night and won’t ever
again. Believe me, Tyler. I love you and only you.”
“Is this the truth, Phillip,” Tyler asked.
“Unfortunately, it’s the truth,” Phillip answered.
“I think you should leave,” Tyler told Phillip. “I don’t want you anywhere near Belle, do you understand?”
“This isn’t over,” Phillip stated leaving the penthouse.
Belle watched Phillip leave and knew if the truth came out that many lives would be destroyed. Did Shawn
leave Salem because he found out about Belle and Phillip?
Chapter Seven
It was their day. Their day of joy and happiness. It was the day they would become husband and wife. She
was standing in the small room in the basement of the church looking into the mirror. The long chiffon
wedding gown showed off her womanly curves with her hair pinned up in a French twist with a few curls
falling down her face. She was a beauty, a stunning breathtaking princess.
“Wow,” Mimi said opening the door looking inside. “Could you be more beautiful?”
“I am so nervous,” Belle confessed.
“It is normal,” Hope stated walking into the room. “I was a nervous wreck both times I married Bo.”
“Is everyone here,” Belle asked.
“Chloe got here fifteen minutes ago. No one has seen Sami and Eric is crying that his little sister is getting
married,” Mimi explained.
“He keeps saying it isn’t fair that you are getting married before him,” Hope commented.
“I can’t believe this is my wedding day,” Belle smiled looking into the mirror once again straightening out
her veil.
“It’s time,” Bo shouted running into the room.
The three woman looked at each other smiling knowing what was about to happen.
“Darling, you look beautiful,” Bo told his wife giving her a quick kiss before Hope left the room.
Ten minutes later the congregation turned around to see Chloe walking down the aisle in her bridesmaid
gown, then following her was Hope, finally Mimi walked down the aisle. The congregation stood to see Bo
leading Isabella Black down the aisle to her groom. She caught the gleam in his eyes as their eyes met
electricity flowed through their bodies.
Finally meeting at the altar he took her hand in his looking into those deep blue eyes. They turned to Father
Russell who would be marrying them joining two people into one soul.
“We are gathered here today to join this man and this woman in holy matrimony,” the Father Russell
stated. “If there is anyone here that believes these two people should not be joined please speak now or
forever hold your peace.”
No one moved and the Father moved on.
“Tyler Colby Montgomery, do you take Isabella Rene Black to be your wedded wife to have and to hold.”
“Stop,” the young man yelled from the back of the church.
Chapter Eight
“I now pronounce you husband and wife,” Father Russell stated. “You may now kiss the bride.”
He lifted the veil over her head noticing the sparkle in her eyes - his gift of love was staring with such joy. He
slowly kissed those luscious lips of hers meeting for what seemed like eternity. They were now married.
Those lips sealed their bond. The Gift of Love was now joined in holy matrimony.
She couldn’t believe her dream had come true. She had married the man of her dreams. She had made the
right decision, but all she could think of was those lips pressed against hers. Their bond was sealed with a
kiss.
Breaking apart turning to their loved one they caught the tears of joy and smiles on their faces. Their loved
ones were happy for them. They had found The Gift of Love everyone had dreamed of since they could
remember.
“Congratulations,” Bo said shaking the hand of the groom.
“Belle, I am so happy for you,” Hope stated giving the bride a tight hug. “Your mother and father are looking
down upon us smiling at the fact that their little girl is now a married woman.”
“Oh, Hope,” Belle teared up. “I know they are watching over me. They are crying because you and Bo have
taken such good care of me through the years.”
Their family and friends joined them at Tuscany for the wedding reception to bring joy to their union. After
a toast from the Maid of Honor, Mimi, who shined with her tears of joy for her best friend, made the most
amazing speech about love and friendship. Even though, Mimi tried to be as serious as possible she couldn’t
help make take cracks at her best friend for their antics as children and teenagers.
“We would buy those wedding magazines and choose our wedding dresses and even pick out some of the
male models to have as husbands. Every time we did that Belle would always choose the most amazing
gown and the best looking model while I got stuck with the old bald guy who was in the picture as the father
figure, but those days of dreaming of the perfect day does not compare to the real thing today. Belle, you are
my best friend though thick and thin you have been there for me when you shouldn’t have been, just like I
was with you when you needed me most. I will never forgot the laughter and tears we had, or the joy of being
boy-crazy over the same guys. I still prefer J.C over Justin, but you had always chosen the best. Today is the
perfect day for the perfect girl who I love very much. Your brother would be so proud of his ‘Tink’ as I am
today,” Mimi explained. “And to your husband, you are receiving the greatest gift today. It’s the gift of love
from Isabella Black something that everyone deserves.”
The rest of the night included the first dance as husband and wife where the couple could not stop kissing
each other on the dance floor. Then Bo danced with Belle as Hope danced with the groom.
“Eric, I am so happy that you came,” Belle told her brother dancing in his arms ten minutes later.
“You know I would not have missed this day for the world,” Eric said holding his little sister tight.
“I wish mom could have been here,” Belle cried.
“Don’t cry, Belle, you will mess up that pretty face of yours. Just know she is here and she will always be.
She is in our hearts forever just like John and Brady are,” Eric replied.
“I love you, Eric,” she wiped the tear away whispering.
“I love you, too little sis,” Eric commented.
Looking over Belle caught the glimpse of her groom dancing with Carrie Brady Horton. He looked so happy
and she knew she was the reason for that happiness. She scanned the room to see if anyone else was
enjoying the festivities. Glancing around she caught Chloe dancing with Bo and Hope dancing with Grandpa
Shawn, Mimi was dancing with Will while Sami was dancing with Mike Horton, her sister’s husband.
Suddenly "I'll Be" began to play immediately making her think of her husband and the feelings of lose.
Knowing what to do she walked over to her husband taking him in her arms and planting a passionate kiss
on his lips. She had to reassure him that she made the right choice.
“I received the best Christmas present ever this year and that was you,” she told him.
“So you don’t have any regrets,” he asked.
“Becoming Mrs. Shawn Brady, not a single regret. I have the one thing I have always wanted and that was
The Gift of Love from you,” she said kissing him one more time sealing their fate with a kiss.
Author: CRene
Rating: PG
Summary: Belle moves on after years of pinning away for Shawn Brady, but days before her wedding to
another man gifts from a mysterious stranger remind her of the man she had lost.
Chapter One
Looking outside seeing the glistening white snow fall upon Salem, she couldn’t help but remember this time
ten years ago. Being seventeen and in love was the only thing that mattered during that time and now
things were different.
“Are you thinking about the past,” her best friend asked from behind her.
“I have told my self over and over that I need to forget him,” Belle replied.
“You have, though, you are marrying Tyler in a couple of weeks. He loves you and I know you love him,”
Miriam Lockhart explained.
“I do love him. He is so wonderful,” Belle stated.
“But your heart still belongs to Shawn,” Mimi asked.
“We were seventeen, Mimi. How are you ever supposed to get over your first love. I lost my one true love that
night.”
Mimi and Belle were wrapping the Christmas presents they had brought that day at Salem Place at the
Black penthouse. It was just one week before Christmas 2010 and Belle was not only concentrating on
Christmas this year, but also her wedding to Tyler Montgomery a week after that.
A knock on the door broke her dreaming of the perfect wedding to the man who held her heart.
“Belle, there is a package for you,” Marlena said walking in.
“Who is it from,” Mimi wondered.
“Let me open it,” Belle stated ripping the wrapping paper away from the box.
Picking up the Christmas ornament from the box, Belle was in awe. The ornament was a glistening gold
ball with a red ruby in the middle of it. The gold and red sparkled in the light which made it even more
beautiful.
“What does the card say,” Marlena asked.
“It says, To see the light in your eyes when you look inside I remember the smile on your face and the love
within your heart. Love, Secret Admirer.”
“That doesn’t make sense,” Mimi stated.
“Tyler is so sweet,” Belle replied.
The man stood outside of the penthouse building looking up hoping she would realize who had sent her the
gift. If only she understood the importance of the ruby. who was the man? Would Belle figure it out?
Chapter Two
It was two days before Christmas, the streets of Salem were covered with snow and the spirit of the day
Jesus was born was felt throughout the city.
Belle, Mimi, Hope Brady, and Chloe Lane were sitting at the Brady Pub enjoying their late lunch. They had
spent the day going through last minute wedding plans for Tyler Montgomery and Isabella Black.
Shawn Brady Sr. went over to the piano trying to have Chloe come and join him for a Christmas Carol. He
began to play the piano like a pro that he was, his fingers sliding g on the keys like a master. Chloe stood
next to the piano in her Christmas spirit ready to sing from her heart the way Brady Black had taught her
as she sang a classic Christmas song.
The crowd of people began to cheer for the young brunette who still had a voice like an angel. She had made
her dream come true because of one man, and that one man was no longer present on this earth to share her
joy.
“Amazing,” the man said standing in the doorway of the Brady Pub.
“My love,” Belle shouted running into the arms of the man she loved.
“Isabella,” he said wrapping his arms around his most precious princess.
“Tyler, I didn’t think you would be here so soon,” Belle said kissing him lightly on the cheek.
“I took the rest of the day off to help you with the wedding plans,” he replied.
“How lucky do you have it,” Hope stated. “When Bo and I got married he made me do all of the work and
make all the choices.”
“I am very lucky,” Belle smiled.
“Now if only the rest of us could find our Prince Charming,” Mimi commented.
“One day when the right man comes upon your beautiful face and your sparkling personality they will be the
luckiest man alive next to me,” Tyler explained.
“Are you sure you don’t have a brother,” Mimi asked.
“Sorry,” Tyler replied.
“Belle, there is package for you,” Caroline Brady stated walking in from outside.
“Another one,” Mimi wondered. “Tyler, can I marry you? Forget Belle.”
“Let’s see what this one is,” Belle stated unwrapping the small package. Inside of the package was a CD
with the words Play across it.
Belle went behind the bar and put the CD inside of the stereo and begin to hear a song she had not heard in
years, "I'll Be" by Edwin McCain.
“Belle, who is the one person who played that song for you,” Mimi questioned.
“Remember the night of the Last Blast of our Junior year,” Chloe asked Belle. “He requested that song for
you.”
“It can’t be,” Belle shouted.
“It could be,” Hope stated.
“NO,” Belle shouted running out of the Brady Pub.
She stood outside with her short sleeve shirt looking around hoping she would catch a glimpse of the boy
who broke her heart many many years ago. The cold of winter began to make her quiver, but she had to find
him.
“Where are you,” she screamed. “Why now?”
Belle fell to the ground crying. Finally after all these years of waiting for him, praying that he would come
back to her, he had now chosen the most inconvenient time of her life. She had finally moved on, letting
someone else hold the key to her heart, and he had come back to Salem. Would he interrupt her upcoming
nuptials to the new man in her life and her heart?
Chapter Three
“Isabella,” Tyler said taking his fiancee in his arms lifting her up from the ground. “Do you love me?”
“Of course,” Belle sobbed.
“Will you still marry me if he was to come back in our lives,” Tyler wondered.
“Of course.”
“Then there is nothing to worry about. I love you with all of my heart and you say you love me, in which I
believe. In less than two weeks you will walk down that aisle to marry the man that would die for you, that
would never leave you. I will always be there for you.”
“How long did it take you to rehearse that one,” Belle smiled.
“Since I found out about the other gift,” Tyler stated kissing Belle on the forehead.
“I love you Tyler Colby Montgomery,” Belle whispered.
“I love you, Isabella Rene Black,” he murmured in her ear nibbling on it just a bit to make her feel the
emotion of desire.
Standing a few feet away from them hiding behind the fence was the man who through the years had
realized what he was missing and finally decided to have what was rightfully his - Isabella Black.
“I should get you inside,” Tyler told Belle breaking away from her.
“I don’t want to go back. I have better ideas,” Belle seductively commented pulling him closer to her by
grabbing onto the belt loops of his khaki pants he was wearing.
“Isabella, I don’t believe you,” Tyler laughed.
“I think we need to have a rehearsal for the honeymoon,” she whispered kissing his neck.
“What about your family and friends?”
“They won’t even notice we left,” Belle replied grabbing his hand pulling him down the sidewalk.
Two hours later, Belle was buttoning her shirt from an incredible lovemaking session with her fiance. He
did things to her that no other man had been able to do since Shawn had disappeared. Tyler had made Belle
feel desirable and needed. She needed Tyler and wanted Tyler, but why was she feeling a bit ashamed this
one time. Deep within her heart she felt like she was cheating on Shawn Douglas Brady.
“That is ridiculous,” she mumbled.
“What is that, honey,” Tyler said bringing his hand to her back massaging it gently.
“Nothing. I think I am going to take a walk,” Belle stated standing up grabbing her hip huggers leaving the
room.
“Isabella, please be careful,” he shouted hearing the door slam.
Tyler knew that if Shawn Brady was to come back to Salem, he would have problems keeping his fiancee in
his life. Would his Isabella run back to Shawn or would she stay with him?
Belle walked on the docks remembering that cold December night ten years ago. They were walking hand
and hand that night when Shawn had asked her if she wanted some hot chocolate. He gave her quick kiss on
the lips mouthing the three words she longed to hear.
“Why did you leave,” Belle asked breaking out of the trance.
“I love you,” she heard the voice.
“Shawn,” she shouted.
She began to wander the docks to find that voice she knew she well. It may have been ten years since she
had heard him, but she knew his voice like she knew her own.
“Shawn,” she yelled catching a shadow running.
Chapter Four
"Shawn, wait. Shawn," Belle screamed chasing after the shadow.
She had finally caught up to the man she had seen, but once she grabbed his arm swinging him around, she
knew she was wrong.
"Belle," he said. "I'm sorry."
"Bo, I thought you were someone else," Belle stated.
"You thought I was Shawn. I know I heard you," Bo explained.
"It's just with all the gifts, I know he is here. I just know he is back."
"Belle, what if he did come back?"
"What do you mean?"
"What about Tyler?"
"I love Tyler very much. No matter what I will marry Tyler Montgomery," Belle proclaimed. "Even if Shawn
Douglas Brady comes back!"
"When your parents died Hope and I promised you that no matter what happens that we would always be
there for you. We will keep that promise until the day that we die," Bo said.
"It will be four years next month since their plane crashed. I thought I would die when Shawn disappeared
years ago, but with Brady and my parents there to support me, I was able to get through it. But once the
three of them parished that night, I didn't know what I would do. You and Hope became my surrogate
parents. I will always cherish you and Hope for helping me get through such a crucial time in my life."
"Belle, you have always been like a daughter to us and you will always be. When you asked me to walk you
down the aisle for your wedding to Tyler I was honored. I am still honored. I love you, Isabella Black," Bo
cried taking the young woman in his arms seeing the tears rolling down her eyes.
He knew she was remembering the day of her parents and Brady's funeral. She was a wreck the day they
were laid to rest. That day was the day Hope and Bo made the promise that no matter what they would
take care of Isabella Black.
"I love you and Hope so much," Belle cried.
"Let's get you back home," Bo said.
"Tyler is probably wondering where I am."
"I better get you back."
Ten minutes later they had reached Belle's apartment. Belle knew Bo was right about so many things. She
had always counted on Bo and Hope and since her parents cherished it was even more.
"When are Eric and Sami arriving in Salem," Bo asked.
"Sami should be here tomorrow for she could spend Christmas with Will. Eric will be arriving three days
after that."
"Look is that another package," Bo said pointing down to the box at her door.
Opening the box knowing it had to be from Shawn, she uncovered a Salem Panthers basketball jersey with
the number twenty-four.
"That was Shawn's," Bo stated.
"I know. See this rip right here it was from the last game he played when Phillip grabbed during the game to
block the punch from the point guard on the Oakdale Raiders.
A block away the young man watched the view in front of him. He knew that his father would make sure
Belle would be safe for the moment. He was waiting for the perfect moment to make his appearance. When
would he walk back into his first love's life? What would she do?
Chapter Five
It was Christmas morning in Salem and families were spending the day together celebrating the birth of
Christ. All over the world this day was sacred to so many and so tragic for others. Others who had lost loved
ones over the years were aching for the ones that could not be there with them today, but knew they spirits
were watching over them.
Isabella Black was sitting on the couch of the penthouse where she grew up in remembering the years gone
bye spending Christmas with her parents and Brady here.
Or was it another person she was missing at this time of the year. He had meant so much to her many many
years ago. Growing up there wasn’t a Christmas that they didn’t see each other talk to each other. Shawn
was the one person she could count on other than her brother, Brady. Now after all these years and
memories later, Belle had to move on.
She went through the penthouse finding everything she could that reminded her of Shawn Douglas Brady.
Before she married the man she truly loved in a week she would have to let go of Shawn, releasing him from
her heart. Even though she knew that tossing away the mementos would not erase the memories she had to
start somewhere. Finally the gifts she had received the last few days were there in the trash can except one
thing she could not part with.
Belle had to get ready to head over to Bo and Hope’s for Christmas where she would spend the rest of the
day with the family that had taken her in when she had lost hers. Everyone would be smiling and laughing,
but they knew deep within their hearts it wasn’t the same without Shawn or Marlena.
Opening the penthouse door to leave there he stood. He stood there about to knock when the door flew open.
She was an angel. She was his angel. He looked into those crystal blue eyes that reached inside of her soul.
He had to be there for her. He had to find her. This was the moment. The moment of truth had arrived.
Chapter Six
“What are you doing here,” she asked not allowing him inside of the penthouse.
“Shawn is in town,” he stated pushing himself through the doorway.
“I know he has made his presence known through gifts,” Belle replied shutting the door walking up behind
him.
“What if he finds out about our past,” he asked.
“What I would like to know is where he has been these past ten years,” Belle wondered.
“You are not worried about what he will do when he finds out that we were more than friends before he
disappeared,” he questioned.
“Phillip, he is never going to find out about that night,” Belle ordered.
“You and I shared something incredible that night before he disappeared.”
“And I have told you time and time again it was a mistake.”
“What if he found out and that is why he left,” Phillip asked.
“No! I have told before that he could not have known. Nobody knows other than you and I and that is how I
want to keep it. I have also told you before that I want nothing to do with you and that is how I want to keep
it. Now get out.”
Phillip stared into Belle’s eyes feeling his heart bursting. All these years he had held deep feelings of love
for Isabella Brady, but his best friend was the lucky one. Before he left the penthouse he boldly reached over
pulling Belle into his arms and kissed her. Their lips meeting passionately, his desire for her ripped
through him leaving the little hairs behind his neck standing up. The sweet taste of her lips on his made
him feel things he hadn’t felt since that night they made love.
“What is going on here,” he yelled from the doorway.
“Tyler,” Belle said gaining her composure. “It’s not what you think.”
“It looks like you were kissing Phil,” Tyler replied.
“Well, we were. It’s not what you think,” Belle commented. “Let me tell you the truth, the whole truth.”
“No, don’t,” Phillip shouted.
“Tell me what,” Tyler questioned.
“I told you I lost my virginity to Shawn, but it’s not the truth. I lost it to Phillip the night before Shawn
disappeared,” Belle explained.
“You mean that was the reason Shawn left,” Tyler wondered.
“I don’t know,” Belle said. “Nothing has happened between Phillip and I since that night and won’t ever
again. Believe me, Tyler. I love you and only you.”
“Is this the truth, Phillip,” Tyler asked.
“Unfortunately, it’s the truth,” Phillip answered.
“I think you should leave,” Tyler told Phillip. “I don’t want you anywhere near Belle, do you understand?”
“This isn’t over,” Phillip stated leaving the penthouse.
Belle watched Phillip leave and knew if the truth came out that many lives would be destroyed. Did Shawn
leave Salem because he found out about Belle and Phillip?
Chapter Seven
It was their day. Their day of joy and happiness. It was the day they would become husband and wife. She
was standing in the small room in the basement of the church looking into the mirror. The long chiffon
wedding gown showed off her womanly curves with her hair pinned up in a French twist with a few curls
falling down her face. She was a beauty, a stunning breathtaking princess.
“Wow,” Mimi said opening the door looking inside. “Could you be more beautiful?”
“I am so nervous,” Belle confessed.
“It is normal,” Hope stated walking into the room. “I was a nervous wreck both times I married Bo.”
“Is everyone here,” Belle asked.
“Chloe got here fifteen minutes ago. No one has seen Sami and Eric is crying that his little sister is getting
married,” Mimi explained.
“He keeps saying it isn’t fair that you are getting married before him,” Hope commented.
“I can’t believe this is my wedding day,” Belle smiled looking into the mirror once again straightening out
her veil.
“It’s time,” Bo shouted running into the room.
The three woman looked at each other smiling knowing what was about to happen.
“Darling, you look beautiful,” Bo told his wife giving her a quick kiss before Hope left the room.
Ten minutes later the congregation turned around to see Chloe walking down the aisle in her bridesmaid
gown, then following her was Hope, finally Mimi walked down the aisle. The congregation stood to see Bo
leading Isabella Black down the aisle to her groom. She caught the gleam in his eyes as their eyes met
electricity flowed through their bodies.
Finally meeting at the altar he took her hand in his looking into those deep blue eyes. They turned to Father
Russell who would be marrying them joining two people into one soul.
“We are gathered here today to join this man and this woman in holy matrimony,” the Father Russell
stated. “If there is anyone here that believes these two people should not be joined please speak now or
forever hold your peace.”
No one moved and the Father moved on.
“Tyler Colby Montgomery, do you take Isabella Rene Black to be your wedded wife to have and to hold.”
“Stop,” the young man yelled from the back of the church.
Chapter Eight
“I now pronounce you husband and wife,” Father Russell stated. “You may now kiss the bride.”
He lifted the veil over her head noticing the sparkle in her eyes - his gift of love was staring with such joy. He
slowly kissed those luscious lips of hers meeting for what seemed like eternity. They were now married.
Those lips sealed their bond. The Gift of Love was now joined in holy matrimony.
She couldn’t believe her dream had come true. She had married the man of her dreams. She had made the
right decision, but all she could think of was those lips pressed against hers. Their bond was sealed with a
kiss.
Breaking apart turning to their loved one they caught the tears of joy and smiles on their faces. Their loved
ones were happy for them. They had found The Gift of Love everyone had dreamed of since they could
remember.
“Congratulations,” Bo said shaking the hand of the groom.
“Belle, I am so happy for you,” Hope stated giving the bride a tight hug. “Your mother and father are looking
down upon us smiling at the fact that their little girl is now a married woman.”
“Oh, Hope,” Belle teared up. “I know they are watching over me. They are crying because you and Bo have
taken such good care of me through the years.”
Their family and friends joined them at Tuscany for the wedding reception to bring joy to their union. After
a toast from the Maid of Honor, Mimi, who shined with her tears of joy for her best friend, made the most
amazing speech about love and friendship. Even though, Mimi tried to be as serious as possible she couldn’t
help make take cracks at her best friend for their antics as children and teenagers.
“We would buy those wedding magazines and choose our wedding dresses and even pick out some of the
male models to have as husbands. Every time we did that Belle would always choose the most amazing
gown and the best looking model while I got stuck with the old bald guy who was in the picture as the father
figure, but those days of dreaming of the perfect day does not compare to the real thing today. Belle, you are
my best friend though thick and thin you have been there for me when you shouldn’t have been, just like I
was with you when you needed me most. I will never forgot the laughter and tears we had, or the joy of being
boy-crazy over the same guys. I still prefer J.C over Justin, but you had always chosen the best. Today is the
perfect day for the perfect girl who I love very much. Your brother would be so proud of his ‘Tink’ as I am
today,” Mimi explained. “And to your husband, you are receiving the greatest gift today. It’s the gift of love
from Isabella Black something that everyone deserves.”
The rest of the night included the first dance as husband and wife where the couple could not stop kissing
each other on the dance floor. Then Bo danced with Belle as Hope danced with the groom.
“Eric, I am so happy that you came,” Belle told her brother dancing in his arms ten minutes later.
“You know I would not have missed this day for the world,” Eric said holding his little sister tight.
“I wish mom could have been here,” Belle cried.
“Don’t cry, Belle, you will mess up that pretty face of yours. Just know she is here and she will always be.
She is in our hearts forever just like John and Brady are,” Eric replied.
“I love you, Eric,” she wiped the tear away whispering.
“I love you, too little sis,” Eric commented.
Looking over Belle caught the glimpse of her groom dancing with Carrie Brady Horton. He looked so happy
and she knew she was the reason for that happiness. She scanned the room to see if anyone else was
enjoying the festivities. Glancing around she caught Chloe dancing with Bo and Hope dancing with Grandpa
Shawn, Mimi was dancing with Will while Sami was dancing with Mike Horton, her sister’s husband.
Suddenly "I'll Be" began to play immediately making her think of her husband and the feelings of lose.
Knowing what to do she walked over to her husband taking him in her arms and planting a passionate kiss
on his lips. She had to reassure him that she made the right choice.
“I received the best Christmas present ever this year and that was you,” she told him.
“So you don’t have any regrets,” he asked.
“Becoming Mrs. Shawn Brady, not a single regret. I have the one thing I have always wanted and that was
The Gift of Love from you,” she said kissing him one more time sealing their fate with a kiss.
| THE END |