SOD - Paul proposes to Nikki!
Even though they've only been together for a few months, Paul suddenly decides to propose to Nikki.
"I was surprised [at] how quickly this [happened] in the storyline," says Doug Davidson. "But from Paul's point of view, I can understand why he asks her to marry him. He and Nikki have known each other [for] over 30 years. They live together and [are in] a relationship. This seemed like the logical step, making it [official]. It makes perfect sense."
Nikki, however, isn't as sure about this and asks Paul to give her some time to mull his offer over. But after talking to Katherine, Nikki finally accepts Paul's proposal.
"They find themselves in the same place," Davidson explains. "[Their] youth has faded and they're not looking for a [hot] love affair, but for [a feeling of] partnership. [Paul] feels that he's [provided Nikki] distance from her separation from Victor and then from [what] happened with David. Plus, Paul and Nikki have a lot of history, so [he's feeling confident]."
Does he have any concerns about Nikki and Victor's "friendship"? "I think [he does a little]", admits Davidson, "but he doesn't want to [dwell on] that too much. For one thing, Nikki is still angry about how Victor has treated her. Victor never viewed her as his equal, but Paul does. He respects her. And with Ashley [involved] with Victor, it doesn't seem like Victor is even interested in being with [Nikki]. Paul just wants Nikki to feel [safe] with a partner that she can share everything with."
Victor is not happy about their good news, though. Victor wishes Nikki well, but he later tells Victoria that he believes Nikki is making a mistake. "There are some omens that can't be ignored," teases Davidson. "But [for the time being], Paul and Nikki are enjoying how things are going between them."
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SOW - Paul pops the question!
Longtime friends and old lovers Paul and Nikki take a big step in their relationship this week, when they get engaged.
"There have been events that led these two together," says Doug Davidson (Paul). "They've known each other for 30 years, [though] they [haven't] been together since 1979. So [it's finally coming full circle for them]. It's not a passionate affair like it was in their youth. [They're] two people that found each other again in the middle of their lives."
While they're at the coffeehouse, Paul asks Nikki to marry him. "It comes out of the blue," explains Davidson. "Paul [did not anticipate] asking her at that moment, but through talking, it seemed like the right time. One thing leads to another and he just pops the question."
How does Nikki react? "She seems [shocked]," says Davidson. "Paul assumes [that she is turning him down] from the way she starts talking about it. Then he questions whether he should have [proposed], and all [of his insecurities] resurface. He says he shouldn't have rushed."
As it turns out, Nikki just needs some time to consider his proposal, "and Paul understands [that]," Davidson emphasizes. "[Nikki] goes to Kay [to talk] about it."
Nikki confides in her friend about her fear that, by accepting Paul's proposal, she could be acting in reaction to Victor's current situation with Ashley. But Katherine convinces her otherwise. "Nikki comes back to Paul, and he is [expecting] a no," confesses Davidson. "But she surprises him with a yes. Paul is [thrilled]. [What's exciting about] this is that they [don't expect] anything more than they already have. They [know] they're happier, stronger and better off together."
Now they have to tell others about their engagement, and Nikki wants to inform Victor herself. "Nikki feels [an obligation]," Davidson says. "He is the father of her children. Paul [thinks it over] and realizes it's the right thing to do."
Nikki drops by the ranch and lets Victor know that she and Paul are getting married, and he wishes her good luck. Later, however, Victor and Victoria wonder if Nikki will be making a mistake in marrying Paul. "Paul and [Victor have a long history]," says Davidson. "There are few people, aside from family, who Victor trusts as much as Paul. So Paul [assumes] Victor [will] be happy."
If and when Paul discovers Victor has his doubts, "he may be a little concerned, but [in the grand scheme of things], it doesn't make any difference," Davidson contends. "Nikki and Paul are happy [together]. [They believe] that they can make a go of this."