Right Place. at the Right Time
Chapter 1
Time: Two weeks before Alexis' baby due.
The apartment had become a safe haven for her and the baby. well, it will be one when she comes into this world. Alexis ran a soft caress of her swollen stomach and eased back into the big comfortable chair. She glanced out the window and wondered when it had started snowing again. She didn't notice much these days. She was just satisfied to be safe. She didn't mind the last 3 weeks of confinement because it gave her chance to be with her daughter. It gave her an opportunity to be away from all the lying and deceit. She kept praying the delivery date (which was two weeks away) would be here soon, so she could talk to Isabella on a more face-to-face level. She had decided on the name Isabella for two reasons. The first of which was is its a beautiful name- she pictured a strong, yet soft angel with wings. Her daughter. Second, she wanted the baby to have some connection with its father. Ned had taken it upon himself to pass Isabella off as his own child. She wasn't sure how she felt about that yet. On some level there was a sense of relief. She would not have to face Sonny and Carly. On the other hand, it did not feel right to keep a father away from his child. and a daughter away from her father. Especially her own daughter. She had a right to know. so did he. What would Sonny think?
Alexis jumped at the banging at the door. What in the world? Then she remembered that Sonny had called and told her that he wanted her to go over some contracts. A man like Sonny is hard to deter. She can't even remember how many times she has told that man that she is not on his payroll.
She slowly and painstakingly got up from her corner and made her way clumsily to the door. She darted a quick look at the mirror and made sure that she didn't look too much of a fright. Makeup and blow-drying her hair were the farthest things on her mind these days. Food- now that was important. Maybe she could have Sonny make her some popcorn.!
She unlatched the chain first, and then moved to the second lock, finally the third one. Oops, lets not forget the alarm. Voila!
"Alexis, what are you guarding in there? The Cassadine fortune?" He looked around and saw papers neatly piled on her desk, the TV turned on the local news channel, and the place littered with presents. ah yes, Jax had thrown her a baby shower.
Alexis started to laugh and said "well, this baby right here is more important to me than all the Cassadine empire. Come in and take of that wet coat. Sorry for the mess. I haven't gotten around to putting away all the stuff from the shower. By the way, thank you for the crib. It was gorgeous, I haven't seen anything quite like it."
"You don't have to thank me Alexis. It's the least I can do. I had it specially made by a Puerto Rican artist. He is famous for his work; however, he had never made a crib before. I hope my men brought in and set it up for you properly. I know how you are at manual labor. And don't be sorry- I don't see a mess. Anyways, I'm used to Michael's toys all over the penthouse and Carly's things strewn about in our room." Sonny knew he was rambling but he couldn't help himself. Alexis looked so beautiful. So content.
"Speaking of Carly and Michael. how are they?"
"They are fine. Carly is redecorating the apartment again. You know how she likes to the furniture around- atleast she has no interest in the kitchen. Michael is doing well. He is getting good grades in school and he even has a girlfriend, her name is Jessica." He paused and gave her a sheepish grin. "Sorry, I didn't want to monopolize the conversation. How are you?" His gaze lingered at her stomach and asked, "How is the baby?"
"Isabella is great too. She is healthy and the doctor says she'll be around 7.2lbs." She quickly touched her stomach. "There she is. she is kicking to let me know that she is ready to come out." Laughing with joy she brought her eyes back to Sonny. "Me. well, I am sore and feel as bloated as a whale." He was giving her an odd look. She gave a nervous giggle. Breathe Alexis. Just breathe and don't be so nervous. He does not know anything- yet.
She looked so confidant Sonny thought. Sure, she was an intelligent woman who took on the fiercest people at court. But this. this. aura was different. This was a woman who finally had everything. She had battled the strongest demons and won. Yes, there were still a few out there left to handle, but she would kill to keep her child safe. Like he would. Though his battles were far from over. Carly was up to her tricks again.
"You want to feel her kick?" She didn't know what prompted her to say that.
"Can I?" as he gradually reached over and place a firm, but gentle hand over her stomach. Isabella took this as a golden opportunity to introduce herself to her father and gave a swift and resounding kick. The smile he gave her was priceless. "Why isn't Ned with you Alexis? He should be here with you at a time like this!"
"Um-um. he had to go out of town on business for L&B. And you know I am an independent woman. I don't need Ned or you for that matter hovering around me like mother hens. Isn't that the reason you are here? To check up on me? There are no papers to check out are they?"
Sheepishly "No, there were no papers. I wanted to see how you were. I don't mean to imply that you are incapable of taking care of yourself Alexis. All I am saying is that you are pregnant, about to give birth anytime soon, and the father of the child should be here. While we are on the subject. I thought you and Ned were going to tie the knot. Why haven't you? And why in the hell do you live all alone in this apartment?"
"SONNY!!! You know how I feel about people interfering in my private. And not that it's any of your business, but Ned and I decided that we did not have to be married to raise this child. He is one of my closest friends and he will be there for this child." She could not bring herself to say that father of her baby. That was pushing it for her. "I don't understand Ashton!" He angrily got up and went to the kitchen. "Have you eaten anything?!"
"Not yet. I was hoping you would offer to make me popcorn and bring me the ice cream." she exclaimed.
"I meant real food Alexis. What do you have in the fridge?"
"Lets see. Jax and Ned brought over some food from the Grille to last me the week. Sonny, I have chocolate mousse in there. could you please bring that it to me at least."
"No. Hold on. I think I have something here."
Ten minutes later he walked out with steaming rice, grilled chicken, some veggies, and two scoops of pistachio ice cream. Strolling towards Alexis, he noticed that she was already fast asleep in that big chair. He silently put down the food, and he grabbed a blanket and covered her. She snuggled deeper into the chair and started lightly snoring. Who would have thought that the states most famous attorney snored. Sonny chuckled and settled back into a yellow loveseat. He put the TV on mute and started reading the captions. He didn't want to wake her up. Ah well. Seems like he will have to stay here for a while. The weatherman reported bad conditions and strongly cautioned people from leaving their homes now. He called Johnny and told him to head home. No need for him to spend the night in the car. I should also call Carly before she calls in Benny and the police.
Alexis stretched languorously and then quickly got up. Oh my god! Did she just fall asleep? Where was Sonny? It was almost midnight. He must have gone home.
"Hey Sleeping Beauty! Did you have a nice nap?"
"Sonny. (sputtering) what are you still doing here?"
"Well, since you decided to take a nap, I thought I might clean up this place for you."
God, I love this man. With every fiber of my being I love this man. But he belongs to Carly. He loves Carly too. Just keep reminding yourself that Alexis. HE IS CARLY"S HUSBAND!!!
"Alexis. Alexis! What are you thinking?" Sonny inquired. She had drifted off again, and he wanted to know to where.
Nervously "Just wondering when it will stop snowing. Don't you have to get home to your wife?" Good one Alexis. Remind him too.
"I can't. The weather people warned people from venturing out. So in other words Alexis, you are stuck with me for at least one night."
Ughhhh. He had to go mention "night". She was still trying to put their one night of passion out of her mind. And couldn't he for just one minute quit flashing me those adorable dimples!!! Ouch. Isabella better stop kicking her mother like that. This was not the time.
Sonny saw the flash of pain in Alexis' eyes and then see it subside again. He was worried about her. This was her first pregnancy and too close to the delivery date. It was good that he had to spend the night here- with her. He remembered the last time they had spent the night together. How he wished he had handled things better. Not only had he lost the best attorney in the state, he had also lost his best friend. Carly was his wife, but Alexis. well, Alexis was a puzzle that he longed to put together. The other women in his life were so easy to figure out. This one was different. This one was special. This one was also out of his reach.
"Sonny. I think you need to take me to the hospital." She had said it so quietly that he wasn't sure she had said it.
"What!"
"I think my water broke."
"Are you sure Alexis? We know how you are when it comes to the baby. I am sure Dr. Bonds sees more of you then any other patient she has ever had."
"This is not the time to be funny. Could you please take me to the hospital?"
Sonny jumped up and rushed over to her. "What's the doctor's number? Where is your suitcase? Are you in pain? Can you walk?"
"The doctor's number is beside the telephone Sonny. My suitcase is near the closet near the entrance door. And no I am not in pain. And yes I can walk." She tried to stay calm as she told Sonny what he needed to know. It would do no good for both of them to lose it right now. Alexis couldn't remember when she had ever seen Sonny this scared and out of his element.
"Damn! Damn!! Damn!!!" Sonny called Johnny and was informed that all the roads were closed. They were stuck. There was no way for him to take Alexis to the Hospital in these conditions. It was too dangerous. Maybe there was a doctor in the building.
"Alexis, do you know any of your tenants?" "Not really. I just know there is a real estate agent that lives here because she is showed me the place. Why do you want to know?"
"Alexis, we have a problem. The roads are closed. There is no way out. I called Johnny and he says it is impossible to leave. So. I wanted to find out if there were any doctors around here."
Six Hours Later:
Alexis could not believe this was happening to her. She had taken all steps to ensure the safety of her baby. And now here she was giving birth in her apartment. with Sonny as her make do doctor. No. This is not happening. This is a dream and I'll wake up in a few minutes. "Ahhhhhhhhhh!!!!!" No, that contraction was definitely real.
Sonny was going out of his mind. The phone lines were down now. He couldn't get online and get any information on birthing babies. All he had was some stupid books and common sense (which was NOT saying much at the moment). God, please let them be ok! I love her. Please god. I need her.
"Ok Alexis, all you have to do is stay calm and trust me. I know what I am doing."
"What do you mean you know what you are doing? Have you ever helped bring a child into this world before?"
I guess it wouldn't help to tell her about the cat he used to have, and the kittens he helped deliver. "Sure. I have been in a situation before like this Alexis. Just stay calm and everything will be alright." If they got through this fine, he is going to donate money to the GH's pediatrics fund. He stayed by her side for the next half hour as she cursed (god, she had a vocabulary of a sailor) and yelled. He couldn't understand a word she was saying now. He decided to check how things were progressing.
This is all his fault Alexis thought. If he hadn't chased me to be his attorney, I would never have become his lawyer. If I hadn't become his lawyer, I wouldn't have become his friend. I would never have noticed his dimples (in more places then one) and wouldn't be in this predicament now.
"Ahhhhhhhh! Sonny the contractions are much more intense and closer together now. I think she is going to be here soon. But the doctor had said that labor period is usually longer than this. I think something is wrong," sobbing Alexis grabbed Sonny's hand and brought it close to her heart.
Sonny tried to remain steady and moved below again to see what was going on. Oh my god! Is that her head? "Alexis, when I say push, start pushing. Ok sweetheart?"
"Yes!"
"On the count of three. 1.2.3.push Alexis! That's it! Good girl. Ok, now breathe. You're doing beautifully. You're amazing. Ok. I'll give you a moment to recover and lets do this again. Just one more time, and you'll be holding you baby girl."
Sonny wiped the sweat off his forehead and prepared himself. Catch her Sonny. Don't drop the baby. "Now Alexis, we'll do the same thing again. On the count of three. 1.2.3.push honey!" There she was!!! Isabella had made her entrance into the world. And boy did vocal chords take after her aunt Kristina. He quickly grabbed a small blanket and covered her up. He snatched the scissors and cut the umbilical chord. She had ten little toes and fingers. He ran his fingers over her black hair, her dimpled cheeks, and soft body. She was amazing- just like her mom. He looked up and saw Alexis crying and laughing. She was magnificent. He handed her daughter to her while he continued to take care of other necessities.
Few minutes later, he had Alexis and Isabella settled into a clean bed. He shuffled around the room and made sure that both were comfortable. He tucked Alexis in and kissed her forehead. He went into the other room and brought in the crib for Isabella. Whenever he saw Isabella he felt a tug at his heart. What a gift she was. He wished.
She was here. She was finally here. She was ok. She was safe. Her daughter was with her and nobody would ever hurt her. She could kiss her and hold her. She was hers. Alexis couldn't stop crying. Sonny. he made it possible. He did this. Through her tears she gazed at the man she so dearly loved. She now knew what she had to do. What was right.
"Sonny...?" he glanced at her questioningly "would you like to hold your daughter?"
The End (or just the beginning)
Chapter 1
Time: Two weeks before Alexis' baby due.
The apartment had become a safe haven for her and the baby. well, it will be one when she comes into this world. Alexis ran a soft caress of her swollen stomach and eased back into the big comfortable chair. She glanced out the window and wondered when it had started snowing again. She didn't notice much these days. She was just satisfied to be safe. She didn't mind the last 3 weeks of confinement because it gave her chance to be with her daughter. It gave her an opportunity to be away from all the lying and deceit. She kept praying the delivery date (which was two weeks away) would be here soon, so she could talk to Isabella on a more face-to-face level. She had decided on the name Isabella for two reasons. The first of which was is its a beautiful name- she pictured a strong, yet soft angel with wings. Her daughter. Second, she wanted the baby to have some connection with its father. Ned had taken it upon himself to pass Isabella off as his own child. She wasn't sure how she felt about that yet. On some level there was a sense of relief. She would not have to face Sonny and Carly. On the other hand, it did not feel right to keep a father away from his child. and a daughter away from her father. Especially her own daughter. She had a right to know. so did he. What would Sonny think?
Alexis jumped at the banging at the door. What in the world? Then she remembered that Sonny had called and told her that he wanted her to go over some contracts. A man like Sonny is hard to deter. She can't even remember how many times she has told that man that she is not on his payroll.
She slowly and painstakingly got up from her corner and made her way clumsily to the door. She darted a quick look at the mirror and made sure that she didn't look too much of a fright. Makeup and blow-drying her hair were the farthest things on her mind these days. Food- now that was important. Maybe she could have Sonny make her some popcorn.!
She unlatched the chain first, and then moved to the second lock, finally the third one. Oops, lets not forget the alarm. Voila!
"Alexis, what are you guarding in there? The Cassadine fortune?" He looked around and saw papers neatly piled on her desk, the TV turned on the local news channel, and the place littered with presents. ah yes, Jax had thrown her a baby shower.
Alexis started to laugh and said "well, this baby right here is more important to me than all the Cassadine empire. Come in and take of that wet coat. Sorry for the mess. I haven't gotten around to putting away all the stuff from the shower. By the way, thank you for the crib. It was gorgeous, I haven't seen anything quite like it."
"You don't have to thank me Alexis. It's the least I can do. I had it specially made by a Puerto Rican artist. He is famous for his work; however, he had never made a crib before. I hope my men brought in and set it up for you properly. I know how you are at manual labor. And don't be sorry- I don't see a mess. Anyways, I'm used to Michael's toys all over the penthouse and Carly's things strewn about in our room." Sonny knew he was rambling but he couldn't help himself. Alexis looked so beautiful. So content.
"Speaking of Carly and Michael. how are they?"
"They are fine. Carly is redecorating the apartment again. You know how she likes to the furniture around- atleast she has no interest in the kitchen. Michael is doing well. He is getting good grades in school and he even has a girlfriend, her name is Jessica." He paused and gave her a sheepish grin. "Sorry, I didn't want to monopolize the conversation. How are you?" His gaze lingered at her stomach and asked, "How is the baby?"
"Isabella is great too. She is healthy and the doctor says she'll be around 7.2lbs." She quickly touched her stomach. "There she is. she is kicking to let me know that she is ready to come out." Laughing with joy she brought her eyes back to Sonny. "Me. well, I am sore and feel as bloated as a whale." He was giving her an odd look. She gave a nervous giggle. Breathe Alexis. Just breathe and don't be so nervous. He does not know anything- yet.
She looked so confidant Sonny thought. Sure, she was an intelligent woman who took on the fiercest people at court. But this. this. aura was different. This was a woman who finally had everything. She had battled the strongest demons and won. Yes, there were still a few out there left to handle, but she would kill to keep her child safe. Like he would. Though his battles were far from over. Carly was up to her tricks again.
"You want to feel her kick?" She didn't know what prompted her to say that.
"Can I?" as he gradually reached over and place a firm, but gentle hand over her stomach. Isabella took this as a golden opportunity to introduce herself to her father and gave a swift and resounding kick. The smile he gave her was priceless. "Why isn't Ned with you Alexis? He should be here with you at a time like this!"
"Um-um. he had to go out of town on business for L&B. And you know I am an independent woman. I don't need Ned or you for that matter hovering around me like mother hens. Isn't that the reason you are here? To check up on me? There are no papers to check out are they?"
Sheepishly "No, there were no papers. I wanted to see how you were. I don't mean to imply that you are incapable of taking care of yourself Alexis. All I am saying is that you are pregnant, about to give birth anytime soon, and the father of the child should be here. While we are on the subject. I thought you and Ned were going to tie the knot. Why haven't you? And why in the hell do you live all alone in this apartment?"
"SONNY!!! You know how I feel about people interfering in my private. And not that it's any of your business, but Ned and I decided that we did not have to be married to raise this child. He is one of my closest friends and he will be there for this child." She could not bring herself to say that father of her baby. That was pushing it for her. "I don't understand Ashton!" He angrily got up and went to the kitchen. "Have you eaten anything?!"
"Not yet. I was hoping you would offer to make me popcorn and bring me the ice cream." she exclaimed.
"I meant real food Alexis. What do you have in the fridge?"
"Lets see. Jax and Ned brought over some food from the Grille to last me the week. Sonny, I have chocolate mousse in there. could you please bring that it to me at least."
"No. Hold on. I think I have something here."
Ten minutes later he walked out with steaming rice, grilled chicken, some veggies, and two scoops of pistachio ice cream. Strolling towards Alexis, he noticed that she was already fast asleep in that big chair. He silently put down the food, and he grabbed a blanket and covered her. She snuggled deeper into the chair and started lightly snoring. Who would have thought that the states most famous attorney snored. Sonny chuckled and settled back into a yellow loveseat. He put the TV on mute and started reading the captions. He didn't want to wake her up. Ah well. Seems like he will have to stay here for a while. The weatherman reported bad conditions and strongly cautioned people from leaving their homes now. He called Johnny and told him to head home. No need for him to spend the night in the car. I should also call Carly before she calls in Benny and the police.
Alexis stretched languorously and then quickly got up. Oh my god! Did she just fall asleep? Where was Sonny? It was almost midnight. He must have gone home.
"Hey Sleeping Beauty! Did you have a nice nap?"
"Sonny. (sputtering) what are you still doing here?"
"Well, since you decided to take a nap, I thought I might clean up this place for you."
God, I love this man. With every fiber of my being I love this man. But he belongs to Carly. He loves Carly too. Just keep reminding yourself that Alexis. HE IS CARLY"S HUSBAND!!!
"Alexis. Alexis! What are you thinking?" Sonny inquired. She had drifted off again, and he wanted to know to where.
Nervously "Just wondering when it will stop snowing. Don't you have to get home to your wife?" Good one Alexis. Remind him too.
"I can't. The weather people warned people from venturing out. So in other words Alexis, you are stuck with me for at least one night."
Ughhhh. He had to go mention "night". She was still trying to put their one night of passion out of her mind. And couldn't he for just one minute quit flashing me those adorable dimples!!! Ouch. Isabella better stop kicking her mother like that. This was not the time.
Sonny saw the flash of pain in Alexis' eyes and then see it subside again. He was worried about her. This was her first pregnancy and too close to the delivery date. It was good that he had to spend the night here- with her. He remembered the last time they had spent the night together. How he wished he had handled things better. Not only had he lost the best attorney in the state, he had also lost his best friend. Carly was his wife, but Alexis. well, Alexis was a puzzle that he longed to put together. The other women in his life were so easy to figure out. This one was different. This one was special. This one was also out of his reach.
"Sonny. I think you need to take me to the hospital." She had said it so quietly that he wasn't sure she had said it.
"What!"
"I think my water broke."
"Are you sure Alexis? We know how you are when it comes to the baby. I am sure Dr. Bonds sees more of you then any other patient she has ever had."
"This is not the time to be funny. Could you please take me to the hospital?"
Sonny jumped up and rushed over to her. "What's the doctor's number? Where is your suitcase? Are you in pain? Can you walk?"
"The doctor's number is beside the telephone Sonny. My suitcase is near the closet near the entrance door. And no I am not in pain. And yes I can walk." She tried to stay calm as she told Sonny what he needed to know. It would do no good for both of them to lose it right now. Alexis couldn't remember when she had ever seen Sonny this scared and out of his element.
"Damn! Damn!! Damn!!!" Sonny called Johnny and was informed that all the roads were closed. They were stuck. There was no way for him to take Alexis to the Hospital in these conditions. It was too dangerous. Maybe there was a doctor in the building.
"Alexis, do you know any of your tenants?" "Not really. I just know there is a real estate agent that lives here because she is showed me the place. Why do you want to know?"
"Alexis, we have a problem. The roads are closed. There is no way out. I called Johnny and he says it is impossible to leave. So. I wanted to find out if there were any doctors around here."
Six Hours Later:
Alexis could not believe this was happening to her. She had taken all steps to ensure the safety of her baby. And now here she was giving birth in her apartment. with Sonny as her make do doctor. No. This is not happening. This is a dream and I'll wake up in a few minutes. "Ahhhhhhhhhh!!!!!" No, that contraction was definitely real.
Sonny was going out of his mind. The phone lines were down now. He couldn't get online and get any information on birthing babies. All he had was some stupid books and common sense (which was NOT saying much at the moment). God, please let them be ok! I love her. Please god. I need her.
"Ok Alexis, all you have to do is stay calm and trust me. I know what I am doing."
"What do you mean you know what you are doing? Have you ever helped bring a child into this world before?"
I guess it wouldn't help to tell her about the cat he used to have, and the kittens he helped deliver. "Sure. I have been in a situation before like this Alexis. Just stay calm and everything will be alright." If they got through this fine, he is going to donate money to the GH's pediatrics fund. He stayed by her side for the next half hour as she cursed (god, she had a vocabulary of a sailor) and yelled. He couldn't understand a word she was saying now. He decided to check how things were progressing.
This is all his fault Alexis thought. If he hadn't chased me to be his attorney, I would never have become his lawyer. If I hadn't become his lawyer, I wouldn't have become his friend. I would never have noticed his dimples (in more places then one) and wouldn't be in this predicament now.
"Ahhhhhhhh! Sonny the contractions are much more intense and closer together now. I think she is going to be here soon. But the doctor had said that labor period is usually longer than this. I think something is wrong," sobbing Alexis grabbed Sonny's hand and brought it close to her heart.
Sonny tried to remain steady and moved below again to see what was going on. Oh my god! Is that her head? "Alexis, when I say push, start pushing. Ok sweetheart?"
"Yes!"
"On the count of three. 1.2.3.push Alexis! That's it! Good girl. Ok, now breathe. You're doing beautifully. You're amazing. Ok. I'll give you a moment to recover and lets do this again. Just one more time, and you'll be holding you baby girl."
Sonny wiped the sweat off his forehead and prepared himself. Catch her Sonny. Don't drop the baby. "Now Alexis, we'll do the same thing again. On the count of three. 1.2.3.push honey!" There she was!!! Isabella had made her entrance into the world. And boy did vocal chords take after her aunt Kristina. He quickly grabbed a small blanket and covered her up. He snatched the scissors and cut the umbilical chord. She had ten little toes and fingers. He ran his fingers over her black hair, her dimpled cheeks, and soft body. She was amazing- just like her mom. He looked up and saw Alexis crying and laughing. She was magnificent. He handed her daughter to her while he continued to take care of other necessities.
Few minutes later, he had Alexis and Isabella settled into a clean bed. He shuffled around the room and made sure that both were comfortable. He tucked Alexis in and kissed her forehead. He went into the other room and brought in the crib for Isabella. Whenever he saw Isabella he felt a tug at his heart. What a gift she was. He wished.
She was here. She was finally here. She was ok. She was safe. Her daughter was with her and nobody would ever hurt her. She could kiss her and hold her. She was hers. Alexis couldn't stop crying. Sonny. he made it possible. He did this. Through her tears she gazed at the man she so dearly loved. She now knew what she had to do. What was right.
"Sonny...?" he glanced at her questioningly "would you like to hold your daughter?"
The End (or just the beginning)