1992 (#19) - Steve and Traci's literary chemistry and Brad's jealousy

When Traci's publisher , Steve Connelly , arrives in Genoa City to work closely with the woman to overcome together some problems she is having in finishing her novel, Brad doesn't seem at all concerned, busier and busier in reconnecting with Ashley in a special way. Brad, then, initially doesn't even notice or realize the very strong bond that has been established between Traci and Steve since their first meeting. The two talk and talk for hours about the woman's book and, in reflection, about their lives, their moods, their feelings. Although the two have never met, Traci and Steve feel as if they have known each other for a hundred lifetimes, and each seems able to read the other's mind and heart without needing to utter a single word. One evening, while Steve and Traci are by the fireplace passionately discussing some plot solutions for the novel, Brad comes in and is surprised by his wife's conversationalism and understanding with the man. In a fit of rage, Brad impulsively throws the man out of the house, despite Traci's protests. A violent argument ensues with Traci recriminating her rights to be free to see, professionally and otherwise, anyone; especially since Brad implicitly admits, not denies, that he spent the evening with Ashley. Brad, however, despite being aware of living in a marriage that is now over and in which he is the first to have no interest in keeping it alive, feels and feels for the first time the bitter sting of jealousy towards Traci. Although he doesn't love the woman, in fact, Brad realizes that he is annoyed that she may not have feelings for him. He has, in fact, always taken Traci's love for him for granted; a knowledge that was, after all, a security for him.