When Love is In Charge
by Katie
Julie is coming back from the cafeteria after getting some coffee while Mary gives Frank a bath. Julie's eyes are red and puffy from crying, and there are dark circles under them from lack of sleep. Julie is walking in a daze. She bumps into Ellen.
Julie: Oh Dr. Burgess I'm sorry.

Ellen: That's okay. Julie how is Frank?

Julie: Not good. His pulse is up, and his breathing is labored. My father doesn't think he is going to make it through the night. Oh Dr. Burgess what am I going to do with out him? I love him with all my heart. I don't think he even knows that I do.

Julie starts crying again, Ellen hugs her.

Ellen: I know I know, I'm so sorry Julie. I remember when Sam died I didn't think I'd ever be whole again. But I am and if the worst happens you will be whole again one day too. And Julie I'm sure he knows how much you love him. Its been clear to a lot of people for awhile now, so I see know reason why it wouldn't be clear to him.

Julie: Really, it's obvious?

Ellen: It has been for some time. I believe there was even a pool started as to win the two of you would get engaged.

Julie manages a small snicker at this.

Ellen: Julie have you gotten any sleep? You know you need your rest so that you can handle what ever happens and so you don't get sick.

Julie: No I don't want to sleep I want to know what's going on with Frank. I want to know if he starts to go down hill more or starts to improve. I need to be here for him and his family.

Ellen: Julie you aren't going to be a help to anyone if your exhausted, and or sick. Why don't you go lay down for a bit in the on-call room and I promise I will wake you if there is even the slightest change.

Julie: Well I am pretty beat, and Mary is with Frank right now.

Ellen: Well then this is the perfect time. Go lay down and I'll wake you if anything happens.

Julie: But would Frank sleep if he was in my shoes?

Ellen: Julie when Greg Cooper was holding you hostage Frank searched endlessly to find you. But he also took care of himself as in eating, sleeping, bathing, so that when he found you he could take care of you and not need to be taken care of himself.

Julie: Well okay I guess I will. But you promise you'll wake me if there is even the slightest change right?

Ellen: I swear on Sam's grave I will wake you if anything changes.

Julie: Okay thanks.

Julie starts to walk away, Ellen calls after her.

Ellen: Julie try to hold on to some hope okay, he is still fighting.

Julie manages a half smile and walks away. She goes into the on-call room and lays down on the bed. She falls asleep at once, and starts dreaming vividly.

She is in the lab with her father.

Devlin: I don't have a doubt in my mind that I'd loose him on the table.

Suddenly she's in the kitchen with Frank.

Frank: I think your going to be a great surgeon, even better then your old man.

Suddenly She's in the hall with Ellen.

Julie: My Father thinks he won't make it through the night.

Suddenly she's in the basement apartment with Frank.

Julie: My Father thinks

Frank: What do you think?

Suddenly she's back in the lab with her father.

Devlin: What ever my abilities may be there comes a time when I have to admit I've done all I can for a patient.

Suddenly She's back in the kitchen with Frank.

Frank: I think your going to be a great surgeon even better then your old man.

Suddenly she hears her own voice.

Julie: That means pace maker.

Suddenly Franks voice starts swirling around her.

Frank: Your going to be a great surgeon even better then your old man. What do you think? What do you think? Your going to be a great surgeon even better then your old man.

Julie suddenly wakes up. She sits straight up her heart is pounding and she is full of energy, she can still hear Franks voice in her ears. She jumps up and runs into the hall.

Julie: JOE JOE WHERE ARE YOU? JOE COME QUICK HURRY!!!

Joe and Karen come running from the nurses station. Joe is still a little shaky after misunderstanding a conversation between his mom and Audrey to mean that Frank was gone.

Joe: Julie what is it? What's going on?

Chapter 2
Julie looks at Joe with utter excitement.

Julie: Joe do you believe in signs?

Joe: What kind of signs?

Julie: Joe I just had the most vivid dream. I'm sure Frank was trying to tell me that he can survive the pace maker procedure if I do it. But I want you to assist.

Karen: Julie all of the medical evidence says he can't.

Julie: Karen if we do nothing he will die. But if we try this even if it's along shot he could live. Besides he won't fail me and Joe.

Joe: What happened in this dream anyway?

Julie: My father kept telling me he didn't think Frank could withstand surgery. Then Franks voice kept saying What do you think? My father was saying that he had done all his abilities could allow him to do for Frank. Then I kept hearing Franks voice saying that I'm going to be a great surgeon and an even better one then my father.

Joe and Karen look at each other.

Julie: Joe we have nothing to loose here and everything to gain. All we need is for your mom to sign a consent form, get a pace maker set and we can do it.

Joe: If I was in there Frank would do what ever it took to save me. He put me through med. school what better way to pay him back then to use those skills to save him. Okay I'm in I'll go get the consent form from Grace.

Karen: Hold on both of you we are interns, Joe the last time you went against hospital policy you nearly lost your internship.

Julie: Karen we will go by the book as much as we can okay. That's why we're having Mary sign a consent form.

Joe: Karen I would gladly give me life to save my brother so risking my career is nothing.

Julie: I feel the same way what good are my skills if I don't put them to use when those I love are hurt. Besides if Frank is willing to risk his life over and over again for others I should be willing to risk my carrier.

Karen Looks at both of them with concern.

Karen: Okay I'm in I'll assist as well. But if we're going to fix Frank's heart lets do it right. I think we should take veins from his leg and use them to strengthen his heart connectors. We can stitch them over and around the accelerator nerves. That along with the pace maker should insure his heart being able to beat for a long long time.

Joe: Karen that's inspired.

Julie: Karen that's a great idea! I'm so glad your going to be in there with us.

Matt has been listening from not far away.

Matt: I couldn't help over hearing I'd like to help.

Julie: Matt that would be great! Dr. Quartermaine has always been impressed with the work you do. And she is a heart surgeon.

Matt: Well Frank's a good man, and it's true we have nothing to loose. May I suggest we treat this as a transplant. In other words put him on a heart lung machine, that way we can work with out the worry of his heart stopping.

Julie: It sounds good to me. Come on people we don't have a minute to spare lets get moving.

Joe rushes to Grace and excitedly fills her in and gets a consent form.

Grace: You can have this form under one condition.

Joe looks tense.

Joe: What?

Grace smiles.

Grace: That I can help. I'm a good OR nurse and you guys are going to need one. Frank is a good friend and I want to help.

Joe: Grace we would love to have you in there. As long as you know there is a chance we could all including you loose are jobs.

Grace: Joe how many times has Frank risked his life for total strangers. He deserves his friends and loved ones to do know less for him. Now get going we need your mom to sign that. I'll go get an OR ready.

Joe smiles and runs off to find his mom.

Mary is sitting at Franks bedside praying, when Joe comes charging in.

Joe: Mom I think we can save Frank.

Mary looks up at her son with hope.

Mary: How?

Julie: Had this very vivid dream in it Frank told her that she could save him. I know it sounds strange mom but lets face it we have nothing to loose and everything to gain. Julie, Karen, Matt, Grace, and myself are going to perform the surgery. We are going to put him on a heart lung machine while we work so we don't have to worry about his heart giving out on us in the middle of our repair work. We are going to take veins from his legs and use them to strengthen the nerves that lead to his heart. We'll do this by tying his veins on and around the nerves leading to his heart. Then we'll put in a pace maker. These steps should allow his heart to beat for a long time. Now mom it is a long shot there are no guarantees here. We're going on what Julie dreamed and our desire to save Frank. But mom if we don't do this he will definitely die. At least with this he'll have a chance even if it is small. All we need from you is your signature on this consent form, and we can get going.

Mary looks at Joe.

Mary: Well Frank always believed in trying your best. And if we didn't do this then we wouldn't be doing our best. And I have faith in all of you. Besides your brother would never allow you to fail.

Mary takes the paper and signs it.

Chapter 3
Grace is feverishly getting the OR ready and trying to get the pace maker all set. She bumps into Ellen.
Grace: Oh I'm sorry Ellen.
Ellen: You sure are in a big hurry what's going on?
Grace: Ellen have you ever heard the saying desperate times call for desperate measures?
Ellen looks at Grace questioningly.
Ellen: Yes.
Grace: Well this is one of those times excuse me.
Grace dashes off. While Ellen goes to find Matt. She finds Matt, Karen, Joe and Julie in the on-call room feverishly going over everything they know about the human heart.
Ellen: What's going on?
Just then Joe, and Grace come running in with news.
Grace: The OR and pace maker are ready.
Joe: Mom signed the consent form.
Ellen: A consent form for what?
Everyone looks at each other.
Julie: Ellen if you could go back in time and save Sam you would do it right?
Ellen: yes.
Julie: Would you try to save him even if it was risky?
Ellen sighs as she catches on
Ellen: Yes but.
Joe: No no buts if we do nothing Frank will die and I'd rather die then allow that to happen. This is his only chance and we're taking it. He would do no less for us.
Grace: Ellen they do have some training in this. They have planned it out well. And since Mary signed the consent form the hospital is protected. We all know what we are risking here. We all know the odds of success are small. But we all know that Frank would gladly lay down his life for anyone of us with out a question. The least we should be willing to do is lay down are carriers for him.
Julie: We took an oath to save lives and that's exactly what we're going to do.
Ellen: Regardless of the outcome, or consequences.
Julie: Yes.
Ellen: And there is no way I can stop you.
They all at the same time say NO!
Ellen sighs.
Ellen: Okay, but I have one request since I've been a doctor long then you guys I want to assist as well.
Everyone looks at each other in amazement.
Matt: That would be great Dr. Burgess we'd love to have you on board. We are going to treat this like a transplant and put him on a heart lung machine so we don't have to worry about his heart stopping in the middle of surgery. On top of giving him a pace maker we have opted to take veins from his legs and stitch them on and around the nerves leading to his heart. This will give him a chance for a long life.
Ellen: Well it sounds like you have really thought this out.
Grace: Okay guys we better get moving are you ready?
Everyone looks at each other and nods.
Grace goes to get Frank from his room. On her way she meets up with Audrey.
Audrey: Off to get Frank for surgery?
Grace: Uh excuse me?
Audrey: Mary filled me in and I think it's wonderful. This is the kind of action Steve loved to see doctors take. Grace: Well thank you and when this is all done please tell the interns that are doing this that.
Audrey smiles.
Audrey: I'll do you one better then that let me assist.
Grace: Oh Audrey that would be great but are you sure?
Audrey: The board wouldn't dare accuse Steve's widow of wrong doing. Consider me a safety net. Grace: Audrey thank you.
Audrey: No time for thanks now we have to go prep Frank. Lets get moving.
They race off.
Julie, Joe, Karen, Matt, and Ellen are scrubbing up.
Julie hears Franks voice in her head.
Frank: You are going to be an even better surgeon then your father.
Julie thinks to herself. I hope you're right.
Grace, and Audrey bring Frank in and set him up on the table. The interns, and Ellen gasp at seeing her.
Joe: Audrey what are you doing here?
Audrey: Mary filled me in and I want to help. I'm also here as insurance the board won't be as quick to criticize something Steve's widow was involved in.
They all smile at each other.
Audrey: Well come people lets get moving. Have you chosen who will lead.
Julie: I'm leading.
Audrey: Fine then lets start. Julie, Matt, and Ellen get on one side of Frank, While Joe, Karen, and Audrey get on the other. Julie: okay I see Audrey and Grace already have him on the heart lung machine so lets begin. Scalpel

Chapter 4
Mary is sitting in the waiting area praying. Devlin comes running up to her.
Devlin: Did you have sign a consent form for your son to have surgery?!
Mary: Yes I did my other son Joe along with your daughter and several of their friends are trying to save Franks life as we speak.
Devlin: Mrs. Scanlon I really wish you hadn't done that. I don't believe you are aware of the odds here.
Mary: Oh I'm very aware Dr. Devlin. With out surgery there is no hope for my son. With surgery there is still very little hope. But a glimmer is better then nothing, it's a risk I'm willing to take and Frank would want us to take.
Devlin: But Mrs. Scanlon I doubt that I could even keep him alive through this surgery. How are a bunch of interns and a couple nurses and an ER resident going to be able to keep him alive.
Mary smiles
Mary: With love. The people who are working on him hold him very dear. Especially Joe and Julie. The power of love and prayer can be far stronger then any medicine. Besides I have a tun of faith in Joe and you should have more faith in your daughter.
Devlin: Mrs. Scanlon this has nothing to do with love, or faith. These are medical facts. The trauma your son suffered is terminal why put your self through this when it is destined to fail.
Mary: Dr. Devlin you do not no that it is going to fail. You are not God. Further more this is not your decision it's mine. The family of a patient has the right to insist on every single thing being tried in an attempt to save their loved one no matter how great the odds. I think you are just worried that he'll live and it will get out that a famous Doctor couldn't save him but a bunch of interns could. You just don't want to be made to look bad. I suggest you take a lesson from my Joe and put the patient first. Now if you will excuse me I'm going to go get some coffee.
Mary leaves. Devlin watches her go angrily.
Out side the OR Eve is pacing back and forth, Scott walks up.
Scott: Hey there cutie what's going on.
Eve: Oh just standing guard. I can't operate on him like the rest of the interns can thanks to Devlin but I can stay here and stop push Doctors from trying to stop them.
Scott smiles.
Scott: Very noble.
Eve: Yeah well men like Frank don't come along everyday. I know Devlin thinks we should give up. But this is Frank Scanlon we're talking about. I may give him a hard time, but I know gold when I see it and that's what he is. And I also know that you don't let go of gold with out a fight. I just wish I could be in there to.
Scott: You'll be back working in the OR soon enough I promise.
Eve: Thanks. So what are you doing here anyway? You're not Checking up on me are you.
Scott: Well I did want to see how you were holding up. But I also am here because Karen is in there and I want to make sure that she along with the others who are helping have a lawyer at their side if the board chooses to come after them.
Eve: Do you think they will?
Scott: Well actually they might not. A consent form was signed and the family of a patient can insist on ever option of treatment being taken. On top of that Audrey Hardy is in there and there is no chance in Hell that the board will go after her. And if they don't go after her they can't go after the others because that would be discrimination. And that's why I'm here to remind the board of that.
Eve smiles.
Eve: You know you're looking pretty special your self.
Inside the OR The repairs have been made and the pace maker is in place. There is one more knot to be tied and then they will try and restart his heart.
Julie: Matt All the doctors say that your knots are the best. Why don't you do this one.
Matt: I think you should do it Julie. You've preformed most of this whole thing your self. You're doing great, if I thought there was a problem I'd tell you.
Joe: Come on Julie have faith in your self.
Julie suddenly hears Franks voice in her head.
Frank: You'll be and even better surgeon then your old man.
Julie takes a deep breath and ties the last knot.
Julie: Okay now it's time to try and start his heart.
Julie's heart is pounding in her ears. But she suddenly has a flash of her in a wedding dress. Startled but a little reassured she takes a deep breath and releases the clamps to start his heart.

Chapter 5
The room is silent as Julie releases the clamps. Everyone holds their breath. Frank's heart starts beating vigorously.
Joe: YES!
Julie: Oh thank God. We did it we really did it!
Karen: No Julie you did this.
Matt: She's right you know if you hadn't pushed for us to do this we would never have tried. And you really did do most of the surgery we were more like cheer leaders.
Joe: Julie you really did do this you should be very proud of your self. Ellen: I don't mean to through cold water on anyone, because it is great that he made it through the procedure. But we still need to sow him back up and we still don't know if his heart is going to work with out the isopropyl drip.
Julie: Well there is only one way to find out. Let's lower the drip and see what happens.
Grace lowers it. Everyone stairs at the heart monitor. His heart rate stays steady and strong as dose his blood pressure.
Joe: HE LIVES!!
Karen: Joe you can't yell in the OR like that. Audrey: Under the circumstances I think it's fine.
Eve and Scott who are still standing out side the OR call in.
Eve: Hey is everything okay in there.
Scott: Yeah what's going on. Joe: The procedures worked he is coming off the Isopropyl with no problem!
Eve: That's Great! Way to go guys!
Karen: Julie deserves most of the credit.
Julie: Okay guys lets sow him up. As they stitch Grace continues to lower the Isopropyl. By the time they are ready to take him to recovery he is off of it.
All 6 of them role him to recovery.
Ellen: So Julie since you did head this whole thing why don't you go and tell Mary the great news.
Julie: Okay but I really don't want him to be alone. Audrey and Grace at the same time say I'll stay with him. Everyone laughs.
Julie: Well with two great nurses at his side I guess I can go.
Joe: I'll come with you.
Matt: I think we all should go.
Karen: I can't wait to see the look on Devlin's face.
Ellen: Now lets be nice.
They all laugh and in high spirits go to find Mary. Mary is sitting in the waiting area praying. Devlin is sitting near by.
Joe: Mom it worked it worked! Julie's plan worked. She put veins from Franks leg around the damaged nerves and gave him a pace maker. His heart is beating on its own no more Isopropyl! He's going to live mom, he is going to live!
Joe turns and looks at Julie
Joe: Thanks to Julie.
Mary: Oh my prayers have been answered! Oh Julie thankyou from the bottom of my heart. I can never repay you for this.
Mary hugs Julie tightly. Julie blushes bright red.
Julie: Mary I'm as thankful as anyone for Frank making it. I love him so much. But it wasn't just me. Joe, Karen, Matt, Ellen, Grace, and Audrey all helped. With out them it never would have happened. And God definitely played a big part in it. I had this dream and in it Frank was telling me through conversations we've had in the past that I could save him.
Mary: Well alot of people might have ignored that dream. As far as I'm concerned you are a miracle worker. And I think my son is one lucky guy to have you in his life.
Julie: Thankyou Mary.
Devlin starts to say something but is interrupted bye Grace who runs up to them all out of breath.
Grace: You guys are never going to believe this he is already trying to breath on his own. He is 3 quarters of the way off of the vent already. Julie you are an amazing surgeon. Mary Julie is way to humble to tell you this but she did most of the surgery on her own. We were more there for moral support. We followed orders but she did the big work. You oh the fact that Frank is alive to Julie.
Devlin: Congratulations Julie it's a great thrill to save a life but you really should go by the book in the future.
Devlin walks away.
Joe: Julie don't listen to him he is just embarrassed because he was out done by his own daughter. You saved a life that he had given up on.
Mary: So when can I see him.
Julie: I think we should keep him in recovery for a couple more hours just to be safe but then will bring him to ICU and you can see him. Until then why don't you try and get some rest.
Ellen: Speaking of rest Julie I think you could use some. I promise to wake you if Frank's condition changes at all. But you really do need some rest.
Mary: Oh I agree Julie Frank would want you to take care of yourself.
Julie: Well I guess I could use some rest this has been quite a day.
As Julie walks to the on-call room she hears Franks voice in her ears again.
Frank: You are an even better surgeon then your old man.
Julie smiles

Chapter 6
Julie is lost in peaceful dreams, when Joe comes in and wakes her.
Joe: Julie, Julie wake up.
Julie jumps up alarmed.
Julie: Oh my God what is it what's happened?!
Joe: Oh no no Julie everything is fine I didn't mean to scare you I'm sorry. But I just thought you'd like to know that Frank is completely off the vent, His vitals are great, and he is moving around just a little bit. I'm guessing in the next couple of hours he'll be waking up all the way.
Julie smiles.
Julie: So it wasn't just a dream. We really did save him.
Joe: No Julie you really did save him. And I can never repay you for that.
They hug.
Julie: Well I guess we should move him from recovery up to ICU now.
Joe: Sounds good to me.
They leave.
Karen, Eve, and Scott are talking in the lounge.
Scott: That was some fancy work you did there.
Karen: Well Julie did most of it.
Eve: But they couldn't have done it with out you Karen. You are the one who had the idea of taking veins from his leg and using them to strengthen the nerves leading to his heart.
Karen: Well I just did what I could. Julie is the one who pushed to go in. And she did most of the work in there. We were more of a cheering squad then anything. I mean don't get me wrong we all did are parts but Julie did most of the actual procedures. I just hope we don't loose are jobs over this.
Scott smiles.
Scott: Well I have some good news on that front. I just talked to Lee and because of the consent form as well as because of Audrey helping the board isn't going to do a thing. You guys managed to tie up there hands real well. Next time you see Audrey be sure to thank her. If she hadn't of been involved the board would have probably still tried to come after you guys.
Eve: Even with a consent form?
Scott: Doctors don't like being out done bye less experienced Doctors. And that is exactly what happened here tonight. Every other Dr. believed there was no hope for Frank. But you guys saved him. That makes them look real bad. Especially since they know that Mary could sue them for malpractice.
Mary waits out side Franks room as Joe and Julie get him set up. Grace comes in.
Grace: Hey what are you trying to do take my job.
She laughs.
Julie: Sorry Grace but this is our special patient. Joe: This really is a miracle. Grace: A miracle made possible by love if you ask me.
Mary pops her head in.
Mary: Can I come in now!
They all laugh.
Joe: Yes mom.
Mary walks over to Frank.
Mary: Hello Frankie sunshine.
Frank clears his throat a little.
Julie: Frank are you awake?
Joe: Frank open your eyes.
Julie: Please Frank.
Franks eyes flutter open.
Matt is in the on-call room when Ellen comes in.
Ellen: Dr. Harmon I've been looking for you. I was very impressed with your work in the OR tonight. Putting Frank on that heart lung machine probably made all the difference. And your guidance to Julie through the procedures showed real talent. I'm recommending you to be in charge of the new interns next year. I think you'll be great at it.
Matt: Thankyou Dr. Burgess. But I was just doing my job.
Ellen: You are a gifted surgeon and don't ever forget it.
Ellen smiles at him with a twinkle in her eye and leaves. Matt smiles to himself. Matt: Ellen I'm going to win you yet aren't I.
Gail is on her way to see Lark who is still in isolation. She opens the door and screams. Lark has hung herself with a sheet.

Chapter 7
Frank looks around the room taking in his surroundings as he wakes up more.
Julie: Frank can you here me?
Joe: Frank say something.
Mary: Frank how do you feel?
Frank: What happened? Where am I? Why do I feel like I was just tackled by a line backer? Did Lark get down of the roof alright? Is she okay? Why do you guys look so tired? Julie have you been crying? What's wrong honey? Joe, Mom why are you guys crying? What's with the heart monitor?
Julie: Frank you got Lark to safety and she's fine. She doesn't have a scratch on her. But right as you got her to safety the ledge gave way under your feet and you fell from the roof. There was a bag set up to by the fire department and you caught the edge of it. But it didn't absorb the full impact. The nerves leading to your heart were badly damaged. Your heart could beat with out an isopropyl drip. All of your vitals signs were slowing down. The other Doctors here were confident that you wouldn't make it through the night. A priest even came and gave you the last rights. But a miracle has happened and you're going to be fine.
Frank: Oh my God, I almost died!
Mary: We thought we'd lost you Frank.
Joe: I have never been so scared in all my life.
Julie: I couldn't begin to imagine how I was going to live with out you.
Frank: Well I'm here now.
Joe: Thanks to Julie.
Julie: Joe please.
Mary: Will you listen to this modest lady. Frank it wasn't just a miracle it was Julie she saved you.
Joe: Frank Julie had this idea that if she could get a pacemaker in place that you would live. What ended up happening is that Karen, Matt, Ellen, Grace, Audrey, and Myself aided Julie as she got you on a heart lung machine, took veins from your legs and used them to strengthen your damaged heart nerves, and put in a pace maker. We helped but she really did most of it. If it wasn't for Julie you would be dead.
Frank looks at Julie.
Frank: I don't know what to say. Julie thankyou I can never repay you for this. But I can't say I'm totally surprised I mean it's a known fact that Julie holds my heart in the palm of her hand.
Everyone laughs.
Julie: Just live to be 100 and you will have paid me back.
Frank: I'll do my best.
They kiss.
Karen comes running in.
Karen: Frank I'm so glad to see you're awake how do you feel? Frank: Like I've just been tackled by ten line backers. But other then that I'm doing good.
Karen: I guess you know about what Julie did.
Frank: Sure do she is my hero.
Karen: You know Frank I couldn't help but think of this before. If you hadn't of forgiven Julie for lying about her name when she came to Port Charles, and gotten her to Surgical rotation on time well you'd probably be dead right now.
Frank: Well thank God I came to my senses. But even if I hadn't of forgiven her I would still have helped her get there on time that's just the way I am.
Joe: That's true.
Julie: Well I would have done my best no matter what. But If he hadn't have gotten me here on time I might not be able to operate yet. And if we weren't together I'm not sure I would have put my career on the line.
Frank smiles.
Frank: So in other words forgiving you was a good move on my part.
Julie: I'd say so.
They all laugh.
Karen: Oh my Dad told me to tell you that he has spoken with Lee and because we had a consent form and because Audrey helped the boards hands are tied. They aren't going to do anything to us.
Mary: That's great.
Joe: Hey it was war right.
They laugh.
Gail comes in.
Mary: oh hello Gail.
Frank: Hey Gail how is Lark?
Gail: I'm afraid I have some terrible news. Lark is dead she hung herself with a bed sheet.
Everyone gasps.
Frank: I guess I didn't help her after all. Frank buries his face in his hands. Julie hugs him.
Julie: Frank you did everything you could for her it's not your fault.
Joe: She was just a messed up kid that was to messed up for you to help.
Mary: You did your best Frank and that's all that counts.
Karen: You can't save the whole world Frank.
Frank: I know I just wish I could have saved her. She had so much potential.
Julie: Wish I had taken her seriously. I was so sure that the whole suicide thing was just an act. Maybe I could have helped her.
Karen: I think she may have been beyond anyone's help Julie.
Gail: It is a tragedy but there is no point in placing blame. It really is no ones fault.
Joe: Hey guys how about if we let Frank get some sleep.
Mary: I'm not going anywhere.
Julie: Mary can stay everyone else out.
Once everyone has gone Mary sits at Franks side.
Mary: I'm so glad you are alive. I don't know what I would have done if you had died. You are what holds this family together.
Frank: I'm not going anywhere mom and you can thank Julie for that.
Mary: Speaking of Julie Frank I never thought I'd say this about anyone you or your brother dated but she is perfect for you. Frank I couldn't of picked a better women for you myself. She is the female equivalent of you and I'm so happy that you have found her.
Frank: That makes two of us. I love her more then words can say.
Mary: Have you told her? Frank: Not in so many words but I'm going to. Life is to short not to. When you find the perfect one you have to go out and grab them before they get away. Julie is a dream come true and I'm never letting her get away.
Frank drifts off to sleep.
In the on-call room Julie is sleeping when suddenly a dream begins.
She is 14 and is walking down and endless hallway. She is scared, she opens her brothers door in time to see him shoot himself she screams. Suddenly she's a little girl lying in her bed. She is scared beyond words she can here the door opening and foot steps coming towards her.
She tries to pretend to be asleep.
Julie awakes in a cold sweat her heart is pounding.

Julie tosses and turns trying to sleep but she can't get that dream out of her mind. Who was the little girl and why was she so scared. Finally She falls back to sleep. This time the dream is more vivid She sees the little girl more clearly now and realizes it's her. She is in a bath tub and someone is standing over her. She is crying and she is scared. Julie awakes again. Not able to sleep she goes to check on Frank. She comes into his room he is asleep. Julie walks over and takes his hand in hers and sits quietly watching him sleep. Franks eyes flutter open.
Frank: Hi beautiful.
Julie smiles.
Julie: Hi yourself. Frank there is something I want to talk to you about.
Frank: Julie I need to talk to you to. May I go first it's really important.
Julie: Okay.
Frank: Julie I have been lying here thinking about how close to death I came. And it has made me realize some things. Life is way to short and uncertain to put things off. Julie I love you with all of my heart and all of my soul. You are everything to me. I have waited my whole life to find someone like you. You are my dream girl. I know we made a deal not to get to serious but Julie I love you to much to hold that deal any longer. The truth is that I was in love with you when we made that stupid deal. I had already been for some time. But I was afraid that if I told you I would loose you. Julie me loving you doesn't have to affect your career. I would never let my self hurt you or anything that was important to you. You are my dream girl and I want you with me always. The truth is I lied when I said I wasn't looking to settle down the only reason I said that is I was afraid I was going to loose you altogether if I said how I really felt.
Julie is crying.
Julie: Oh Frank I love you to that's what I wanted to tell you. I was in love with you when we made that deal I was just to scared to admit it. Frank I want to be with you to. When I thought I'd lost you I realized that I was a fool for putting my career above our love. I want us to be together forever Frank. I love you and I need you.
Frank pulls Julie close to him and they kiss.

Karen is working at the nurses station when Joe comes up behind her with roses. He puts them in front of her and hugs her from behind.
Joe: For the girl I adore.
Karen breathes in the flowers and turns and kisses Joe passionately. Karen: They are beautiful thank you. Joe: No thank you. You helped save Franks life and he is the most important person in my life. He has been for my whole life. Karen you helped alot and I'll never forget that.
They kiss.

Ellen sits in her office looking at a picture of Sam. Ellen: Well Sam we had a miracle here tonight. A miracle of love. A man didn't die because his true love wouldn't give up. Oh Sam why did you have to leave me.
Tears run down Ellen's cheeks suddenly she feels a hand on her shoulder. Ellen looks up and sees Sam looking back at her with love.
Sam: I'm here Ellen I always have been and I always will be.
Ellen rubs her eyes.
Ellen: Am I dreaming?
Sam: No honey I'm here. I am here because I have a message for you. It's time for you to move on.
Ellen: What do you mean move on. I don't want to.
Sam looks sadly at Ellen.
Sam: Ellen nothing, and no one can take away what we've had. Our love is an eternal flame. The memories will always live with in you no matter what. But you are alive and need to live. Right now you aren't. Ellen there is more to life then work. You must fill your life with love and laughter. That is what life is about. It's time for you to move on. You can be happy again, you can love again. All you have to do is reach out for it. Ellen the best way you can honor my memory is to be happy, because that is all I ever wanted for you. It is time to let go and let love back in your life.
Ellen is crying. Sam wraps his arms around her.
Ellen: I don't want to say goodbye.
Sam: You're not saying good bye to me Ellen, you're just saying goodbye to the pain. Please Ellen let go and let others in. It's has been way to long.
Ellen: I'll never forget the happiness you brought me Sam.
Sam: And I will never be far from you, but you need to let new happiness in.
Sam kisses her and then he is gone. Just then there is a nock at her office door. Ellen wipes her face.
Ellen: Come in.
Matt rolls in.

Chapter 9
Matt comes in and sees Ellen's sad looking face.
Matt: Dr. Burgess is everything alright?
Ellen smiles at her concerned friend.
Ellen: I'm fine just very tired. Did you need something?
Matt: Well it's almost breakfast time and since we're both off now I thought you might let me treat you to breakfast. As a way of thanking you for not stopping us last night when we saved Frank. I know you had your misgivings about it.
Ellen starts to say no but then thinks about Sam's words to her.
Ellen: Some breakfast dose sound good. But we'll both pay after all I did help. Besides I was simply worried about your careers. The idea as a whole was great.
Matt smiles at this sudden change in her attitude.
Matt: Okay let's go.
Ellen: Give me a minute and I'll meet you by the nurses station.
Matt: Sure.
Matt leaves. Ellen pick up the picture of Sam kisses it and places it in a drawer.
Ellen: Goodbye Sam I will never forget you.
Ellen then leaves.

At the fire house Eve and Scott are lying in bed snuggled in each other's arms.
Eve: Oh I wish we could stay here forever.
Scott: Well we could but I think we'd loose your case for sure if we did. Eve: You know I' feeling kind of bad about bringing that surprise witness today what if Julie finds out she has had so much to deal with.
Scott: Well at least Frank is around for her. But what is this concern for her anyway I thought you weren't good friends?
Eve: Well were not best friends or anything like that. But I don't like hurting people. If they deserve it like Devlin dose or Rex did that is one thing but Julie really doesn't deserve it. Especially not right now.
Scott: Well I will do everything I can to keep it as quiet as I can.
He pulls Eve close and they kiss tenderly.

Joe sees Julie getting on the elevator.
Joe: Julie how is Frank?
Julie smiles.
Julie: Great. He is back to his old self. Frank woke up this morning took one look at me and ordered me to go home take a nap, a shower, change my close, and eat something healthy.
Joe: He really loves you.
Julie smiles
Julie: I know and I love him to. He is everything to me.
Julie gets on the elevator, and Joe goes to see Frank.

Frank is lying in bed awake when Joe comes in.
Joe: Hey there thought you could use some company.
Frank: Sure come on in.
Joe stairs at Frank and tears come to his eyes. Last night Frank living seemed so out of the question and now here he is.
Frank: Joe what's wrong?
Joe: Now nothing last night everything. Frank I have never in my life been as scared as I was last night. The thought of you not being around makes me sick, and sad beyond words.
Frank looks with compassion at his little brother.
Frank: Joe It's okay there is nothing to be scared of now I'm alright. Remember when you were little and you'd have those bad dreams. The next morning you'd always think they were hiding behind every corner. Remember what I told you they are gone and they can't touch you now. Last night was sort of like that. The danger is gone Joe it's morning and the nightmare is done.
Joe nods. Joe: Frank it made me realize some things and I want to tell them to you.
Frank: Okay. Joe: Frank all of my life you have taken care of me, helped me, taught me, encouraged me, supported me, defended me, and even disciplined me when I needed it. I know this is going to sound weird but last night I didn't feel like I was in danger of losing my brother I felt like I was in danger of losing my Dad.
Joe stairs at the floor.
Frank: Joe come here.
Joe sits on Franks bed, Frank takes his hand.
Frank: Joe I never told you this or anyone this for that matter. But since you brought it up I might as well. From the day Mom and Dad brought you home I have been taking care of you. If mom was out and you started crying I took care of you not Dad. I helped Mom potty train you not Dad. I taught you to ride a bike, play ball, and a hundred other things that Dad's usually do. I helped you with home work, I helped you see right from wrong. I got you off on your first date and got you through your first broken heart. I taught you to drive, studied for college with you and a thousand other things I could mention. The point is that everyday when I was taking care of you, I saw Dad not siblings doing what I was doing. My whole life I was doing what my friends Dad's were doing. Every memory or experience a Dad could talk of I can speak of to. And because of that I got real jealous at times. Because I started to feel that I was the one you should be giving father's day cards to. I've always believed that anyone can be a father it's a genetic thing. But the only way you can call yourself a Dad is if you are there and take care of love and help raise your kid. Joe the fact is I have rarely if ever seen you as my brother. Right or wrong I love you and am proud of you as a father loves and is proud of his son and I probably always will.
Joe: I love you as a Dad to Frank.
They hug.

Chapter 10
Matt and Ellen go over to the Recovery room and sit. Mike comes over.

Mike: Good morning Matt, Hello Dr. Burgess. What can I get for you?

Matt: Some fruit and cottage cheese would be great oh and a cup of decaf.

Ellen: I'll have some scrambled eggs, toast, and sausage. Oh and a cup of regular coffee.

Mike: Coming right up.

Ellen: Oh Mike by the way you can call me Ellen.

Mike smiles a bit surprised.

Mike: Okay.

Mike walks away.

Matt: Thanks for having breakfast with me.

Ellen: Thank you for asking me. I really do need to get out more.

Matt looks at Ellen with interest.

Matt: Something is different about you, what's up?

Ellen: Oh I guess you could say that I'm just looking at things a little differently this morning.

Matt: Because of what happened with Frank?

Ellen: Partly that. So what are you doing on your day off.

Matt smiles.

Matt: Are you changing the subject?

Ellen: Yes I am.

Matt: Okay then. I'm planning on sleeping some but I want to work a little on my poetry.

Ellen: You write poetry I didn't know That.

Matt smiles.

Matt: There is alot about me you don't know.

Ellen: Now why dose that not surprise me.

They laugh. Mike comes over with the food.

Mike: Here you go. Oh Matt I wanted to ask you how is Frank?

Matt: Well he was pretty critical but thanks to Julie he's going to be just fine.

Mike: Ahh the power of love. I'm glad he's the kind of person we need more of in this mixed up world.

Matt: definitely.

Mike leaves.

Ellen: You know I have to say I always thought going by the book was best but after last night I'm really rethinking that.

Matt: Well sometimes it is good to follow the rules. But since nothing in life is always by the book your choices can't always be by the book. I mean if my family went by the book I wouldn't be in a wheel chair and my brother wouldn't be dead. If life went by the book children wouldn't die before there parents, couples wouldn't betray each other so many things wouldn't happen. But because those things do happen we can't function as if they don't.

Ellen: I'm starting to realize that.

Matt: I guess you know the board isn't doing to do a thing to us.

Ellen: I know thank to Audrey.

Matt: Do you really think the board would have come after us if Audrey hadn't been in there even though we had a consent form.

Ellen sighs.

Ellen: Unfortunately yes. The board lives by the book, and regardless of the outcome they don't like doctors who don't. Look at what happened to Joe when he saved Audrey.

Matt: That really is a shame so many more people could be saved if doctors would be willing to stray from the book sometimes. Audrey and Frank are perfect examples of that.

Ellen: Before Steve Hardy died the hospital was like that. Doctors did what ever it took. But when he died so did that idea that by the book medicine wasn't always the way to go. The hospital became like every other one. I think that's one of the reasons Audrey wanted to help so bad. It made her feel like Steve's work wasn't all for nothing. She hates what has happened and alot of people know it but there is nothing she can do.

Matt: That really is sad.

Ellen: Yes it is.

*********

Scott and Eve arrive at the hospital for the hearing.

Scott: So you ready to get your job back?

Eve: Definitely! But do you think I will?

Scott: With are surprise witness I don't see why you wouldn't. She is are ace in the whole when it comes to proving that he sexually harassed you.

Eve: How much time do we have before the hearing?

Scott: About a half an hour.

Eve: Good because I want to go check on Frank.

Scott smiles.

Scott: Okay but don't treat him just check on him.

Eve pretends to solute.

Eve: Yes sir!

*********

Eve goes on down the hall to Franks room.

Joe is sitting on Franks bed.

Frank: So dose this mean I get a fathers day card this year?

Frank smiles half kidding.

Joe: Maybe.

Frank grabs his chest pretending that he is hurt.

Frank: After all I've done for you and this is the thanks I get.

They both laugh.

Frank: Joe listen since we've finely been brave enough to be honest about are relationship let me pay you a fathers complement. I am proud beyond word of you Joe. You are a good, smart, decent, honorable, and fair man. You are a true success and I can't imagine being more proud of you if you really were my own son. I love you Joe and I am proud of the man you are.

Joe is practically crying at this point.

Joe: I love you to Frank and if I am a success it's only because of you. You have made me who I am and I am proud to be your almost son.

They hug.

Frank: Okay enough of this. Have you eaten or slept at all?

Joe: No I was to worried.

Frank: Well there is nothing for you to worry about now I'm fine, and you aren't going to be any good to anyone if you are dead on your feet. Go home take a shower and a nap put some clean clothes on and eat. That is an order Joseph.

Joe smiles.

Joe: Well sleep dose sound good.

Frank: Then go, you need to take care of yourself. Remember what I told you when you were in med. school and you kept trying to go non stop. What did I say.

Joe: Those who don't take care of themselves will not be able to take care of anyone else. A good doctor knows that to take care of others he most take care of himself.

Frank: Well.

Joe laughs.

Joe: I'm going I'm going.

They hug and Joe leaves.

********

Eve knocks on the door and peeks her head in.

Eve: Hey can I come in.

Frank: Sure come on in.

Eve: I just wanted to see how you were doing.

Frank: Well I feel like a linebacker sat on me and I'm upset about Lark but other then that I'm doing pretty good.

Eve: I heard about Lark I'm sorry Frank I know you wanted to help her. But believe it or not there are some people even you can't reach.

Frank: Thanks I know but it is still hard, I really thought thing might be looking up and then this whole thing with Jake happened.

Eve: I know.

Frank: So what are you up to?

Eve: My hearing is today.

Frank: Oh that's right. I hope you win, it was so wrong of him to get you fired.

Eve: Thanks me to, I really miss working here. Well I should be going.

Frank: Good luck thanks for dropping by.

Eve: You're welcome.

She leaves, and Frank drifts off to sleep.

*********

At the house Julie has showered and changed into her nightgown Mary having heard that Julie came home has made huge meal for her. She and Mary are sitting at the kitchen table eating together.

Julie: Mary you really didn't have to do this.

Mary: For the love of my sons life, as well as the person who saved that life I most certainly did.

Julie: Mary really you didn't I just did what I had to do and I had a lot of help. Besides the benefits of him being alive are just as great for me. Frank being alive and well is thanks enough for me.

Mary shakes her head.

Mary: Such a modest, sweet, wonderful lady you are.

Julie: Mary please you are making me blush.

Mary: Well I have to get going I'm supposed to be on duty in an hour. But before I leave promise me after you finish up your meal you will go down stairs and sleep. You need it to be at your best.

Julie: I promise Mary believe me sleep is definitely on my agenda. But Mary please if Franks condition changes in the least.

Mary: I will page you 911.

Julie smiles.

Julie: Thanks Mary.

Mary: No thank you.

Mary hugs Julie and leaves.

Julie finishes up, cleans up the kitchen a little and goes to bed. As she sleeps she dreams again. She is a small little girl in her bed and she is scared. She can here footsteps coming towards her door, her heart is racing the door knob turns and her Dad walks in she starts to cry. He tells her to be quite. He locks her door behind him and comes over to her and pulls her covers that she is clutching off. He then starts touching her all over she starts to cry and he hits her across the face and tells her to shut up.

Julie suddenly wakes up screaming. Joe who was having a bite to eat in the kitchen and heard her comes running.

Chapter 11
Julie's hysterical screams bring Joe running from the kitchen into her basement apartment.

Joe: Julie what's wrong what is it?

Joe sits on her bed and takes her hands which are shaking.

Joe: Julie it's alright everything is okay.

Julie: Oh Joe I'm sorry I didn't mean to bother you I just had a bad dream.

Joe: Hey that's alright we're practically family you can call on me when ever you like. Besides it most have been one heck of a bad dream I could here you all the way upstairs. What was it about?

Julie thinks about the dream and shivers. She doesn't know if it was a real memory or just her imagination.

Julie: It was strange I'm not really sure I understood the dream myself.

Joe: Maybe talking about it would help you understand it.

Julie: I keep having this dream so maybe it would but I really don't know where to start. Joe it's a very uncomfortable and embarrassing, and shameful dream. I hate it, it makes me feel so dirt.

Joe looks at Julie's tormented face and here's the shame in her voice. He has a flash of the night Karen told him about the abuse she suffered at the hands of her mother's boyfriend Ray. He takes a deep breath.

Joe: Julie you know if you want to confide something to me you can, or maybe to Karen? Would you like me to call her?

Julie half smiles.

Julie: It's all very hazy. I'm thirsty.

Joe: I'll get you some water.

Joe returns with the water all the time is rage is growing as he suspects more and more that what happened to his Karen happened to Julie as well.

Julie: Thanks for the water. Joe I really don't feel comfortable talking to you about alot of this so lets just say that in the dream I am hurt. Can we leave it at that for now.

Joe: Sure Julie but if you want to talk I'm here.

Julie: Thanks Joe.

Julie tries to go back to sleep. Joe starts to go upstairs but then a voice inside him says that Frank would want him to stay near Julie so he lies on on her couch and goes to sleep.

At the hospital the hearing is underway. Everyone has testified when Scott suddenly stands up.

Scott: We have a surprise witness.

In walks a tall blond.

Alison: Hello my name is Alison. I used to date Bennett Devlin.

Devlin: I object!

Boardman: Sit down Devlin.

Scott: Can you tell us about that Alison.

Alison: I was seeing someone else at the time but Bennett didn't care and I liked the attention. I should have cared but I didn't. Anyway when I broke it off Devlin tried to ruin my life. He got me kicked out of school and emptied my savings.

Scott: How old were you at the time.

Alison: 19 I was dating his son at the time but he didn't care. When his son found out he killed himself.

There is a collective gasp.

Boardman: We will have a short break while the board makes there decision.

Everyone gets up. Outside Scott and Eve talk.

Eve: So what do you think?

Scott: I think we're about to win.

Eve: I'm glad Julie isn't here.

Scott: She'll probably hear about it anyway.

Eve: You're probably right.

Matt and Ellen have finished eating.

Matt: May I give you a ride home?

Ellen starts to say no but then reconsiders.

Ellen: Yes that would be nice.

Matt smiles happily. On the way home they talk some more.

Matt: So do you think we could do this again sometime?

Ellen: Possibly. Do you like red beans and rice?

Matt: Yes why?

Ellen: Well maybe I could make you dinner on are next night off to thank you for this breakfast.

Matt: That would be nice. But I'm not free until next Saturday.

Ellen: That's my first night off to would you like to do it then?

Matt: Sure.

Matt pulls up in front of Ellen's apartment.

Ellen: Thanks for breakfast and the ride.

Matt: Thank you for coming.

Matt watches her go inside then turns on the radio and sings all the way home.

Back at the hospital the board has reached a decision.

Boardman: We have found that there is an overwhelming amount of evidence to suggest that Eve was a victim of sexual discrimination. We are there for immediately rehiring her and paying her back pay for time lost. We are also ordering Dr. Devlin to stay away from Dr. Lambert and to take sensitivity classes.

Devlin: This is an outrage!

Boardman: You will do this or you will not work here anymore!

Devlin: Fine! I have patients.

Devlin storms out.

Boardman: Dr. Lambert are most sincerest apologies welcome back, you may start back at 9am tomorrow.

Eve: Thank you thank you so much.

Eve an Scott leave happily.

Eve: We won we won!

Scott: Well of course we did.

Eve: And I oh it all to you my hero.

Scott wraps her in his arms.

Scott: Should we discuss my fee.

Eve: We could do that or we could go back to your place and play doctor.

Scott: Well since that is my fee I think that will be just fine.

They head off.

Chapter 12
It has been a week since Julie saved Frank. Today he is coming home from the hospital and Julie has planned a romantic dinner to celebrate. She is very tired though because the nightmares have been going on all week. Joe has spent nearly ever night on her couch. He knows she hasn't asked him to but, if the situation was reversed he knows Frank would be there for Karen. Before Frank leaves the hospital Joe comes in to talk to him.

Joe: So how do you feel?

Frank: Glad to be going home.

Joe: Dose anything hurt? Do you feel week?

Frank smiles.

Frank: Joe I really feel fine. No I'm not going to run a ten K race or anything but over all I feel good.

Joe: You're taking some time off work right?

Frank: Yes I'm going to be a bum for the next week, are you happy now.

Frank says this laughing with a smile.

Joe smiles.

Joe: Just as long as you take care of yourself.

Frank: Well I think between you, Julie, and Mom I'm not going to have much of a choice.

Joe: Speaking of Julie, I think something is up with her but I'm not sure what. I mean it may just be all the stress that she's under but she has been having nightmares ever since your fall.

Frank looks at Joe with concern.

Frank: Did she tell you what they were about?

Joe: She doesn't seem to ever want to talk about them. The only reason I know they're happening is because the morning after she saved you when I went home, I heard her screaming while I was in the kitchen. I've been spending alot of time sleeping on her couch since I know you would do the same for Karen.

Frank: Thanks for staying close to her. But has she said anything about them?

Joe: That it has to do with some sort of bad memory, that is frightening, and makes her feel ashamed and dirty, and she doesn't want to talk about it with me.

Frank: Well hopefully she'll talk to me about it. You don't think someone hurt her do you?

Joe: I'd hate to think someone had, but Frank when she had that night mare the morning after she saved you and I came running. The way she was screaming and what she was saying along with her over all appearance well.

Frank: Well what Joe?!

Joe: Well it reminded me of how Karen was right before she revealed to me what Ray had done to her when she was a kid. I hope I'm wrong Frank but I have this sickening feeling that I'm not.

Mary walks in.

Mary: Hey guys.

She sees the deep concern, anger, and sick look on Franks face.

Mary: Frank what is it?

Frank: Mom have you noticed anything different about Julie's behavior?

Mary: Joe told you about the dreams didn't he.

Frank: You know?

Mary: Only since this morning. Well I've noticed Julie's been looking tired but I didn't know why until Joe told me today about the dreams. He wanted to know if he should tell you. I thought it was best if he did.

Frank: I'm glad he did. Guys I know you both wanted to be at the house tonight but in light of all of this I think I should be alone with Julie so if she wants to talk she can.

Mary: No problem, I love Julie as is she was my own so you go write ahead and take good care of her.

Joe: I'll stay over at Karen's.

Mary: Joe you could stay at my place.

Joe: Mom I'm staying at Karen's please lets not get into this now.

Mary: Fine.

Joe: So maybe dinner tomorrow night?

Frank: We'll see how Julie is and then I'll decide.

Julie comes in.

Julie: Ready to go?

Frank walks over and hugs her.

Frank: Yep and we are going to have the house to ourselves. Joe is staying at Karen's and Mom has stuff to take care of.

Julie looks at Frank questioningly.

Frank: I want us to be alone tonight. We can go out with my family tomorrow night. Tonight I think it should just be the two of us.

Julie: Well okay I can't complain about having you all to myself that's for sure. Mary Joe are you two alright with this?

Mary: Honey I want my son happy and he wants to be with you of course I'm alright with it.

Joe: I'd certainly want to be alone with Karen how could I deny my brother the right to be with his true love.

Mary: I don't see how you can refer to Karen as your true love.

Joe: Because she is Mom.

Frank: Enough both of you stop it. Joe are you going to be spending all day tomorrow with Karen?

An understood look passes between the brothers.

Joe: Yep she's off tomorrow.

Frank: Good, well I'll see the two of you probably tomorrow night. Julie are you ready to go?

Julie: I'm ready.

They leave. Joe goes looking for Karen. He finds her at the nurses station.

Joe: Karen I've been looking for you.

Karen: Well you've found me. Isn't Frank going home today?

Joe: Yeah Frank and Julie just went home.

Karen: Aren't all of you having dinner together?

Joe: Karen I need to talk to you in private.

Karen: Okay.

They go over to the waiting area to talk.

Karen: What's wrong?

Joe: For the last week Julie has been having really bad nightmares. I mean ones where she wakes up screaming loud enough to wake the dead and she is shaking and crying. She won't talk much about them. All I know for sure is that it has to do with a bad memory from her past and that is makes her feel scared, ashamed, and dirty.

Karen: Oh My God! You think she was.

Joe: That she may have been abused. Unfortunately I have a sickening feeling that she was.

Karen: Dose Frank know?

Joe: I just told him about the dreams. He asked that Mom and I leave him alone with Julie for the next 24 hours so he can see if she can tell him what is wrong.

Karen: Well ofcourse you can stay at my place. Dose Frank want me to talk to Julie?

Joe: Not yet because she hasn't really told us anything and we're all hoping that we're just crazy. But if she was he definitely wants your help.

Karen: Well ofcourse I'll be there for her she is one of my best friends. Oh Joe I hope this isn't true, I wouldn't wish this on my worst enemy.

Karen starts to cry, Joe hugs her tightly.

Joe: I know I know.

Ellen is rushing around her apartment making dinner and straightening things up. Matt will be here soon. The phone rings Ellen snatches it up.

Ellen: Hello?

Alice: Hi sweetie.

Ellen: Hi mother.

Alice: Ellen is everything alright you sound stressed.

Ellen: Matt's coming over for dinner.

Alice: Well that's wonderful he is such a nice guy.

Ellen: Well if you like him then he must be wrong for me.

Alice: ELLEN!

Ellen: I'm sorry Mother I just feel so off.

Alice: You'll be fine sweetheart everyone gets butterflies when they start dating again.

Ellen: Oh Mother I don't know if I ready for this.

Alice: Ellen it's just dinner. It's not like you're going to marry the guy.

Ellen: Mother don't even say that!

The door bell rings.

Ellen: Oh no he is here! I have to go.

Alice: Good luck.

Ellen: Thanks I'll need it.

She hangs up and rushes to the door. Matt comes in and hands her a dozen red roses.

Matt: These are for you.

Ellen: Thankyou I'll put them in some water.

Back at the Scanlon's Frank and Julie have just arrived home.

Julie: I hope you're hungry I made enough dinner for Joe, and your mom as well as for us.

Frank: Well if it's not hospital food let me at it.

Julie: I'll go set the table and start getting things ready.

Frank takes Julie by the arm.

Frank: Julie listen that sounds great and I am hungry, but I'm not sick anymore I'm well. You don't have to think of me as a patient. I'm all better and can do alot of things now.

Julie smiles.

Julie: And I am thankful beyond words for that. Now why don't you go wash up and I'll get dinner ready.

As Julie leaves for the kitchen Frank looks after her with concern.

Chapter 13
Matt and Ellen are eating dinner.

Matt: This is a really good meal. You are a great cook.

Ellen: Thank you I'm glad you're enjoying it.

Matt: I saw on the schedule you have a couple days off now, do you have any plans?

Ellen: Not really, just rest probably.

Matt: Oh well you've certainly earned that. I have to work tomorrow but then I get a couple days off myself.

Ellen: Well you've certainly earned it as well. What will you be doing?

Matt: Well I'll rest alot that's for sure, but I'll also probably work on some of my poetry.

Ellen: You mentioned that the other day. How long have you been writing?

Matt: I started it after I was shot. I found writing down my feelings, thoughts, and ideas helped me deal with everything better. Soon I found myself writing poems and I really enjoyed it. I found it to be very relaxing and I've never stopped.

Ellen: And it really helps you? The writing down of your feelings really makes them easier to cope with?

Matt: It dose for me. Do you write at all?

Ellen: No but I've always loved to drawl. I have art pads full of drawings I've done over the years. It relaxes me and gets me focused on the positives.

Matt: That sounds like what my writing dose for me. Creativity is a great outlet. I'd love to see your art work. That is if you don't mind showing it.

Ellen starts to say no. Sam was the only one who'd ever seen her art. But she reconsiders.

Ellen: Well I guess I could show you some of them.

Ellen gets up and soon returns with some of her drawings. Matt looks over them with great interest.

Matt: Ellen these are amazing! They have such emotion and expression in them. They all seem to speak volumes. Have you ever thought about entering these in a contest? I bet you'd win some kind of award.

Ellen: Thank you Matt that's very nice of you to say. No I haven't my art is very privet and personal to me. It's where I release all of my emotions. I'm a whole different person when I draw. I really don't want to share my most vulnerable side with strangers. Matt you are only the second person to ever have seen my art.

Matt: Who was the other?

Ellen: Sam.

Matt is deeply touched. He looks at Ellen with such warmth she feels as though she might melt.

Matt: Ellen thank you for showing me these. It means alot that you think enough of me to share something this private and special with me. This art really is spectacular. I'd show you some of my poetry but it's at home. I can show you some another time if you'd like.

Ellen: Yes I would that would be nice.

Ellen gets up and puts her art away. Matt helps Ellen clean up the kitchen.

Matt: So how long have you done art work?

Ellen: I don't really remember a time when I didn't like to draw. Although I suppose it became more expressive and personal after my parents divorce.

Matt: How old were you when they divorced?

Ellen: I was 13 and my brother was 11.

Matt: I'm sorry that most have been rough.

Ellen: Especially since when he left we never saw him or heard from him again.

Matt: Ellen that's awful. Do you have any idea what happened to him or where he is?

Ellen: I don't but Winston, or my Mother might. I've been out of the loop for a long time. Now lets talk about happier things, besides writing what do you do for fun?

Matt: reading, working on the computer, Yoga, swimming, and building model cars.

Ellen: You're in to cars are you?

Matt: Sort of I more do it as a way to improve my coordination and keep my fingers limber for surgery.

Ellen: And let me guess you read up on medical stuff, and exercise for your health.

Matt: You got it.

Ellen laughs.

Ellen: Oh and I thought I was a workaholic. Matt do you ever do anything just for fun. You know something that has no benefits to your career or health. Something that you do just to make yourself happy.

Matt laughs.

Matt: Happy? Hmm let me think. Well actually there is. I love to play basketball. There is a park not far from where I live and I go there when I have free time and just shoot some hoops.

They go into the living room and sit down on Ellen's couch.

Ellen: Now were getting some where.

Matt: Well how about you what do you do just for fun.

Ellen: Well actually I like bowling.

Matt: Really, so do I every once in a while I'll get the chance to go to the lanes.

Ellen: I went when I was young with my Dad and I always loved it. After he left I still enjoyed it and it was a way to feel close to him. As an adult it still remained something that I enjoyed.

Matt: Maybe I can come with you some time?

Ellen: Sure, I'd like that.

Matt leans in and softly kisses her. Ellen stairs at him a little frightened. Matt reaches up and gently strokes her face. Ellen pulls back.

Ellen: Matt I really do like you but.

Matt: Am I going to fast?

Ellen: A little bit, Matt you're the first man I've dated since Sam died.

Matt smiles.

Matt: Are we dating?

Ellen thinks for a moment.

Ellen: I think we are, aren't we?

Matt: I hope so.

Ellen: Well I do to but.

Matt: But since I'm the first man since Sam you really need to take it slow and for a second date dinner and one kiss is enough.

Ellen: So you understand.

Matt takes Ellen's hands in his.

Matt: Of course I do Ellen. I care about you I would never want to rush you into anything. I waited this long just to get you to admit there was an attraction I can wait longer for the rest. Besides I'm betting you're worth the wait.

Ellen smiles.

Ellen: Thank you Matt.

Matt: You're welcome, now I better go it's getting late.

Ellen walks him to the door.

Ellen: Thanks for coming it was very nice having you here.

Matt smiles

Matt: No thank you.

Ellen leans down and kisses him once more. They say good night and he leaves. Ellen flops down on the couch and smiles to herself. She hasn't felt this alive in ages.

Back at the Scanlons Frank and Julie have had an extremely romantic evening. They ate by candlelight and danced to soft music. As they dance they get closer and closer.

Julie: Oh Frank I've missed you so much. I was so afraid that I'd never be near you like this again.

Frank: Well you don't have to be afraid anymore I'm write here and I'm never letting you go.

Julie: Is that a promise.

Frank: Definitely.

They kiss and Frank swoops her up in his arms and carries her up stairs to his room. He lays her tenderly across his bed and begins planting hot kisses everywhere. As Julie pulls him close she closes her eyes and as she dose a million horrific memories suddenly start pouring into her mind like an avalanche. Julie screams in terror pushes Frank off of her and runs out of the room. Frank franticly follows her and finds her crouching in a corner crying and shivering. Frank runs to her. She drawls back even further into the corner as he comes close.

Frank: Julie Julie! What is it what's wrong?! Are you okay? Dose this have something to do with those dreams Joe told me you were having? Julie you can trust me I'm here for you what is it.

Julie is crying and shaking feverishly.

Frank: Julie listen to me you are in no danger I don't know what is wrong but I can assure you that as long as you're here with me you are safe. Julie I want to help you but I can't unless you tell me what is wrong. Please Julie talk to me.

Julie: Oh Frank I'm so scared and ashamed I don't want to loose you.

Frank: Julie you're not going to loose me. I'm write here and I love you. There is nothing you could tell me that would change that fact. But I can't help you unless you tell me what is wrong. Julie there is no secret that could make me love you less. What is it Julie, if you don't tell me I'm just going to imagine the worst.

Julie gets up and goes back into Franks room Frank follows her. Julie stairs out the window to the street below as she begins to talk.

Julie: From the time I was an infant I think it was infancy anyway I don't remember when it wasn't happening. My Dad made an almost nightly ritual of raping me. He'd come into my room lock the door behind him pull off my covers and start touching me in ways that no father should touch his child. It wasn't always in bed sometimes it would be in the tub or he'd take me on special father daughter trips. But the out come was always the same. When I was little he told me If I told everyone would hate me and I'd get sent to an orphanage where I wouldn't be fed or clothed or have any toys. And I'd never see my Mom or Buddy again. As I got older the threat was that no man would ever want me knowing this information. When I was 13 I got pregnant with his child. He took me to some clinic in the middle of no where and forced me to get an abortion. He told me that if I ever told he'd just have me put in a home for mentally disturbed teens because no one would ever believe me after all he was a famous surgeon I was just a misfit of a kid. So it would be my word against his. He also said that any man I told would run from me in disgust. After my abortion the rape stopped for about awhile but after Buddy killed himself it started up again. At 16 I tried telling I told a school counselor. My father had the man fired and beat me up. I was in the hospital for about a month. My father made up a story saying my boyfriend at the time had done it. The kid got suspended. He told me if I ever told again he'd just kill me. So I kept my mouth shut and pushed the memories way deep down into the back of my mind. I really had forgotten up until recently. When Lark came to live with us it triggered something and I started having small flashes of things after her death I had full blown flashes of memories in my dreams. Tonight when you started to make love to me it all came back.

Julie starts crying.

Julie: Oh Frank please don't hate me.

She turns and around afraid to meat Franks eyes. Frank runs over to her and wraps her in his arms he holds her to him as tightly as he can.

Frank: Oh Julie I'm so so sorry. I love you so much I could never hate you. Your father is a monster Julie and he lied to you no good man would ever judge you based on that. Oh Julie I wish I could go back in time and stop all of that but I can't. Julie I swear to you on all I have ever, will ever, and could ever hold dear I will make him pay. Devlin's free ride is over justice will prevail. Julie he will never be able to hurt you again I'm here and I will protect you and help you in every way I can. It wasn't your fault Julie you have nothing to be ashamed of you are a wonderful women he is the one who should be ashamed. I love you so much and it makes me sick to think of him hurting you like that. F

Frank lifts her up in his arms and sits back on his bed holding her to him gently rocking her from side to side until she fall asleep.

Chapter 14
The morning sun streams through Franks bed room window. Frank is still sitting propped up against the head board of his bed with his arms wrapped protectively around Julie holding her to him. She is sleeping peacefully for the first time in a week. Unlike Frank who has been awake most of the night watching her sleep and worrying about her. Frank stairs down at her and says a silent prayer.

Frank: God please give me the wisdom to help her, and the power to protect her and bring her father to justice. Help me heal her wounds, help me give back to her some of what was taken from her.

Frank then gently brushes a strand of hair away that has fallen onto her face. Julie opens her eyes and looks up at him. He smiles down at her and lightly kisses her forehead.

Frank: Good morning sleeping beauty.

Julie smiles a little

Julie: Good morning.

Frank: How are you feeling this morning? Did you sleep okay?

Julie: I slept better then I have in a while. Actually I feel a little well relieved like a huge weight has been lifted off of me.

Frank: Well it's not surprising a secret like that would way anyone down.

Julie: Frank what if he finds out that I told? What is he going to do to me, or to you?

Frank hugs her tightly.

Frank: Julie he is not going to do anything to either of us because I'm not going to let him. Devlin is never getting near you again, and I'm going to do everything in my power to see to it that he is sent to jail where animals like him belong.

Julie: How?

Frank: Well when it gets late enough I'm going to call Scott and Garcia. Scott will drawl up a restraining order to keep him away from you, and after we tell Garcia everything he will go and arrest him.

Julie: But Frank he could beat all of that. He has many times, my father is very powerful and well connected.

Frank smiles and blushes a little.

Frank: Julie you know I'm a modest man but even a modest man knows his own power. Devlin isn't going to be fighting us on his turf he'll be fighting on mine. And in Port Charles my name carries a great deal of weight. I'm not saying that it should, I'm not trying to brag, I'm just stating a fact.

Julie smiles.

Julie: I never thought about that before but that's true you are extremely well known and respected. But Frank what if they don't believe me? At this point it really will be my word against his.

Frank: I'm not saying it's going to be easy Julie but I know we can do it. Anyway It might not have to be his word against yours I'm going to hire the best PI in town to find that counselor, your ex-boyfriend, the people at that clinic, and the doctors and nurses that treated you when you were beaten. And if you can think of any one else who might be of help we will find them to.

Julie smiles and shakes her head.

Julie: You really are my night in shining armor.

Frank kisses her.

Frank: For you Julie I would gladly move heaven and earth. Now Julie as someone who loves I'm going to suggest something that I think will really help you. I think you should talk to Gail. Julie you have alot to deal with and you should deal with it alone. I'll do what I can, I'll listen to you, support you, and love you, but I'm not trained at this. Gail however is trained and she was extremely helpful to Karen. Please let me call her for you and get her over here.

Julie smiles.

Julie: Okay Frank but I'd really like to talk to Karen as well.

Frank smiles.

Frank: I thought you might. Yesterday Joe, Mom, and myself all kind of suspected that you'd been hurt. That's why they stayed away last night so that we could be alone. Anyway we checked and Karen has the day off, so I can call her now if you'd like.

Julie: That was so nice of your family.

Frank: Julie they love you as if you were already a part of this family. They were happy to do what they could and they will continue to help as much as they can.

Julie has tears in her eyes.

Julie: Frank when it comes to what counts you are the rich one.

Frank hugs her.

Frank: I know that now, I know that. So do you want me to call?

Julie: Yes please.

Frank gets the phone and goes into the hall to make the call.

Karen picks it up after one ring. Joe and her have been up most the night talking and worrying.

Karen: Hello.

Frank: Karen it's Frank.

Karen mouths to Joe it's Frank. Joe takes her hand as she continues to talk.

Karen: Frank Joe told me what is going on. How is Julie? Is it true?

Frank: Unfortunately Joe's instincts were right on. She was repeatedly raped by her father from infancy into late adolescence. When she was 14 he got her pregnant and forced her to have an abortion at some clinic in the middle of no where. Karen she's already agreed to talk to Gail but I think you could really be helpful here and she did ask for you.

Karen is shaking and tears are running down her cheeks.

Karen: Oh my God Julie! I'm on my way.

Karen hangs up.

She turns to Joe and relays the information.

Karen: Joe how could anyone do that do there own child!

Joe takes her in his arms.

Joe: How could anyone do that period.

They leave for the house.

Frank goes back in to Julie and kisses her hand and squeezes it. Karen is on her way.

Julie: Thank you.

Frank kisses her.

Frank: You're welcome. How about some breakfast?

Julie: That sounds good.

Frank: I'll go start it.

Julie: I'm going to go shower and change.

Frank: Alright.

Downstairs as he cooks he starts making calls. First to Garcia, then to Scott and then to Gail. Almost immediately they go to work. Gail schedules a time to come over, Scott goes to the court house and through himself into it saying I couldn't help Karen but I can help Julie. And Garcia starts working at once on an arrest warrant. Mary pops her head in the door.

Mary: Hi there.

Frank: Hi mom come in.

Mary: So how is Julie, did you find anything out?

Frank tells his mom the sad tale. Mary turns bright red.

Mary: That monster! That wicked, evil, sainteness, heathen! To that to a child is retched enough but your own! He is not human he isn't even decent enough to be called an animal! How is Julie doing? Have you called the cops? Have you gotten a restraining order? Have you called Gail? I'll call are priest and have him say a prayer to help Julie get through this.

Frank smiles at his mom.

Frank: Relieved that the secret is out, yes, working on it, yes she's coming later today, Thank you.

Mary: What can I do?

Frank: Well Julie has always said that you are like a second mother to her, and I'm betting right now she could really use some mothering.

Mary: Consider it done.

Julie walks in.

Julie: Consider what done?

Mary walks over and gives Julie a big hug.

Mary: How are you holding up? Can I get you anything? You know none of this is your fault right.

Julie: I'm doing okay thanks to Frank. Right now I just need alot of support. I'm trying to believe that but.

Mary: No buts now you listen to me no one deserves what happened to you. A child doesn't make an adult abuse them. You have nothing to be ashamed of Julie you didn't ask for it and you most certainly didn't deserve it.

Julie smiles.

Julie: Thank you Mary.

Joe and Karen come rushing in. Karen comes running over and hugs Julie.

Karen: Julie I'm so sorry I know how awful it is.

Joe: Julie is there anything I can do.

Julie smiles.

Julie: How about a brothers protection.

Joe: You got it.

Karen: Do you want to talk?

Julie: Yes I guess so.

Frank: Why don't you go into the living room so you can have some privacy.

Karen: That's probably a good idea.

Julie: Okay.

Karen and Julie leave the room. Mary has a confused look on her face.

Mary: What dose Karen mean she knows how awful it is?

Joe: Don't you know?

Mary: Obviously I don't what?

Joe: Mom from the time Karen was 8 till she was about 13 Rhonda's on again off again boyfriend raped Karen repeatedly. She blocked it out and it all came back to her the night of her senior prom. She didn't have anyone to tell her it wasn't her fault. She blamed herself she believed she was trash. Karen ended up walking the streets that's how she ended up at the Paradise Lounge.

Chapter 15
Mary sits down in stunned silence.

Mary: Karen was abused to?

Joe: Yes she was. She totally blamed herself and thought she was nothing but trash. One night she wondered into this bar. Sonny was there and he made her feel a little better about her self he got her to trust him. Then he started feeding her pills and pushed her up on stage. She didn't know what she was doing or why. By the time she figured out what was going on she was hooked and had already been stripping for awhile. Karen ran away from him when she realized what was happening. She told Jagger and he helped her get clean, and get the paradise lounge closed down.

Mary: I had know Idea. I just figured well I thought that

Joe: That what mom Karen just woke up one day and started popping pills and taking her clothes off!

Frank: Joe cool it! I don't want any yelling here. Julie is just in the other room and she is very fragile right now.

Joe: Sorry I didn't mean to yell but I love Karen and I can't stand the way mom talks to her or about her.

Mary: Joe I've only had your best interest at heart. But maybe I have been over judgmental of Karen. It's just that a mother wants the best for her baby.

Joe: Karen is the best mom. She makes me happier then I've ever been.

Mary: I'll try to remember that.

There is a knock on the door. Garcia and Scott have arrived.

Scott: I got the restraining order drawn up but I'm going to need to get some facts from Julie or it's going to be very easy for Devlin to fight.

Garcia: I'm here for a similar reason. I need to question Julie before I can arrest him.

Frank: Thank you both for getting right on this, I really appreciate it.

Scott: Well I couldn't help Karen but I'll do my best to help her friend.

Garcia: dirt like that doesn't belong on the street.

Frank: Julie is in the living room talking to Karen why don't you both sit down and have a cup of coffee they should be done soon.

Garcia: Frank the sooner I talk to her the better.

Scott: I don't mean to push but Garcia is right.

Frank: Look they will be done in a few Julie is very fragile right now I'm not going to go running in there and drag her out here.

Julie and Karen reenter the kitchen they have both been crying.

Julie: Hello Detective Garcia, Hello Scott how are you both this morning.

Karen goes to her father and gives him a big hug.

Karen: Hi Dad. Hello Detective.

Frank goes over and hugs Julie.

Frank: Julie in order for Garcia to arrest Devlin, and for Scott to get a restraining order that will stick they need you to answer a few questions. Are you up for that?

Julie: Will you hold my hand?

Frank squeezes Julie's hand.

Frank: Always. Okay Garcia, and Scott why don't we go sit in the living room and talk. Mom, Joe, Karen we'll be back for breakfast you guys go ahead and start there is plenty.

Frank, Julie, Garcia, and Scott go into the other room to talk.

Joe: I'm not really hungry.

Karen: I feel sick.

Mary: Well I think we should try and eat something come now lets sit down. Frank has made a beautiful breakfast we should at leas try and eat some of it.

The three some sit down and pick at there food in silence for awhile.

Mary: Karen I'm sorry I've been so judgmental of you. I know I've treated you rather badly and I'm sorry. You are a fine young lady and you make my son very happy. I guess in reality that's all that matters.

Karen is surprised to say the least.

Karen: Mary thank you I'm not really sure what to say. It did bother me only because I used to idolize you so much. Joe makes me very happy to, and you have my word I'd never hurt him.

Mary smiles.

Mary: Well I hope the two of you always stay happy.

Karen: Thanks Mary that means alot to me.

Joe: It means alot to me also, the two of you are both extremely important to me and it breaks my heart to have you not getting along.

Just then Garcia, and Scott, along with Frank come back through the kitchen.

Scott: That worthless animal! How a man could do that to his own child! I'm going to slap that creature with the stiffest restraining order the law allows!

Garcia: I can't believe he's been able to get away with it for so long! I promise you he won't be for much longer. We're going to put that beast behind bars where he belongs.

Frank: Thank you both very much.

Scott goes over and hugs his daughter. Scott is crying.

Karen: Dad it's okay, I'm fine now. You have nothing to feel bad about.

Scott: Well that's very nice of you to say.

He kisses her on her head and storms out.

Garcia leaves as well.

Joe: How is Julie?

Frank: Worn out, she went back up stairs to get some more sleep.

Mary: How are you doing?

Frank: Mom I never thought I was even capable of hating anyone. Disliking someone sure but hating no not me. But Mom when I think of what that man did to her, and what he stole from her. Mom I'm filled with absolute hatred for that man. When I think about it I feel so nauseous, sad, and am filled with such rage mom I can't even begin to describe it. I just have to keep busy because if I don't I'm going to explode.

Karen: Frank it's not healthy to keep everything bottled up. Maybe you should talk to someone.

Frank: Actually I'm already a step ahead of you I called Kevin a little while ago. I'm meeting with him in a little while. Provided Joe can stay here I don't want Julie to be alone.

Joe: Of course I'll stay.

Karen: I have no where else to be.

Mary: I'll stay as well.

Frank: Thanks.

Joe: Frank maybe if you talked out what you'd like to do it would help.

Frank: What do you mean?

Joe: Tell us if you could get away with it what you'd like to do to Devlin.

Frank blushes.

Frank: Well I don't know if I should say it.

Karen: Maybe if you say it you will feel better.

Joe: Frank sometimes talking about what you'd like to do gives you some relief.

Frank: Okay but it's pretty sick.

Mary: Well we've been warned so tell us.

Frank: Alright if I could get away with it, I'd tie Devlin down to a stretcher and well castrate him with out any pain killers.

Joe: OUCH!

Mary: FRANK!

Frank: Well you asked.

Karen snickers

Karen: Yep we did.

Karen: Hey Joe what would you have done to Ray?

Joe: Hmm well I'd have gotten my drill out and practiced some surgical procedures with no pain killers as well.

Mary: Well I'm glad Ray is already dead and Frank has a cool head or I'd be visiting both of you in jail.

Joe: Karen did they ever find the hero who killed Ray.

Karen snickers.

Karen: Well I've never heard it quite put that way, but no the killer was never found.

Joe: Well I'll say a prayer that the killer is never found.

*****

Ellen is just getting up. She goes into her living room with her coffee when she notices a slip of paper that has been shoved under the door. Ellen goes over and picks it up. On the front there is a small note.

Dear Ellen

Last night was so magical, I had a great time being near you. I went home and wrote a poem just for you. I brought it by early this morning but did not want to wake you on your day off so I slipped it under the door. I hope you like it.

Matt.

Ellen opens up the Poem and begins to read.

YOUR EYES

I wonder if I should tell you just how much you mean to me?
I wonder if I should disclose how very much you captivate me?
Since that first day that I saw your face, I knew that you held my heart captive. You make me feel like know one else ever has. You never looked at me differently. Your eyes saw me as a man, and just a man. Your eyes see the real me as I want other people to see me. You never made me feel as if I couldn't do a task, you pushed me and made me see that I can do anything. I CAN do anything if you're beside me. How beautiful are those deep pools of brown that see so deeply into my soul! They see what no one else bothers to see. They see how hard I work to be better then the best and I am to have met you because my life will never be the same since you have touched it. Your eyes have seen the very best in me. Oh how eyes have hypnotized me! They have made me feel so many things that I never felt before. Your eyes have touched me in a way that none ever have before. Your beautiful big brown eyes.

Ellen sits in silence as tears well up in her eyes. Ellen grabs the phone and calls the hospital. She gets Matt on the phone.

Matt: Hello?

Ellen: This is the sweetest poem that anyone has ever given me.

Matt: I'm glad you like it.

Ellen: It is wonderful.

Matt: It's the truth of how I feel when I look at you. May I see you later on?

Ellen laughs.

Ellen: I better see you. You have tomorrow off right?

Matt: Yes and I hear it's supposed to be beautiful how about a picnic.

Ellen: That sounds great.

Matt: I'll pick you up at say 11.

Ellen: I'll be waiting.

Matt: Till tomorrow then.

Ellen: Till tomorrow.

They hang up.

Eve, Matt, and Jake are going over files at the nurses station. Grace and Audrey are talking there as well. Boardman, and Devlin are discussing a patient there also. Suddenly Scott, Garcia, two officers get off the elevator and come over to the group.

Garcia: Dr. Devlin.

Devlin: One moment detective I'm busy.

Scott: You've had plenty of extra minutes you animal!

Devlin: Excuse me?!

Garcia: Scott please. Dr. Devlin we have a warrant here for your arrest.

Everyone gasps.

Devlin: This is insane on what charges!

Garcia: On sexually molesting your daughter from the time she was an infant till she left for college, and for beating her up when she was 16.

Devlin: This is outrageous!

Devlin tries to leave but the cops grab him and cuff him.

Garcia: You have the right to remain silent anything you do or say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have a right to an attorney if you can not afford an attorney one will be appointed to you. Do you understand the rights I've just read to you.

Devlin: Yes.

They leave with Devlin as the group watches in shock.

*******************Authors Note*****************

The Poem Matt gave Ellen was submitted by D.S. I would like to thank her for her contribution to my story.

Chapter 16
It is early evening Eve is going home to get ready for her date with Scott unsure of what she is going to say to Julie. The sight of Devlin being hauled off is still clear in her mind. But what is even clearer are the charges. Eve can't help but cry a little on her way home. How could she have ever loved a child molester. How should she act around Julie what should she do, and say? She takes a deep breath and goes inside. Frank and Julie are snuggled up on the couch watching TV And Karen and Joe can be heard in the kitchen while great smells of dinner waft through the house.

Frank: Hi Eve

Julie: Hey Eve how was your day?

Eve: Uh Oh my day it was interesting. Uh how was your day?

Frank: Productive.

Julie nods in agreement.

Eve: Well um that's good I guess right? Uh well I'm going to go get ready for my date with Scott now.

Eve rushes upstairs.

Frank and Julie crack up.

Frank: Well you see we can even find humor in this.

Julie: Poor Eve she really didn't know what to say.

Frank: Well it can be hard to know what to say. I mean even I'm guessing a little to be perfectly honest.

Julie smiles.

Julie: Well you'd never know it. I heard you saw Kevin today.

Frank: I need some help working through this as well Julie. I was feeling like if I didn't talk to someone I was going to explode. So how did your session with Gail go?

Julie: It was hard but I imagine it will get better, I mean look at Karen. I'm seeing Gail again tomorrow.

Frank: I'm really glad you and Karen are so close she is a great example of not letting your past control your life.

Julie: She really is a help.

There is a knock at the door. Frank and Julie start to get up. Karen comes running I'll get it.

Julie calls to Karen jokingly.

Julie: Karen I was abused I'm not and invalid.

Karen jokingly replies.

Karen: Well Frank said we are to take care of you so sit down.

Julie: Oh well if Frank said so.

They all laugh. Karen lets Scott in.

Scott: Well it's nice to here all this laughter.

Karen: Well they say it's the best medicine.

Julie: I'd rather laugh then cry. At least right now anyway.

Scott hugs Karen. Joe walks in.

Joe: Hey Scott.

Karen: I'll go get Eve.

Julie: Let me I need to talk to her anyway.

Julie heads upstairs. As soon as she is out of ear shot everyone turns to Scott.

Frank: Devlin is locked up tight right?

Joe: The restraining order is in place correct?

Karen: What happens now?

Scott: For the moment he is locked up. The arraignment is scheduled for tomorrow morning.

Karen: He won't get out on bail will he?

Scott: Unfortunately he probably will. The court has no reason to deny him bail and we all know he can pay it.

Joe: But he raped his daughter!

Frank: Joe quite Julie is right upstairs!

Scott: Because the law says he is innocent until proven guilty he has a right to bail. But that is where the restraining order comes in.

Frank: And it's strict right?

Scott: He is not to come with in a 5 mile range of her, or communicate with her in anyway if he dose he will be thrown in jail.

Karen: But will he listen to it.

Scott: He will unless he wants to be thrown in jail.

Frank: What about at the hospital, I want her to be able to go to work she shouldn't be punished.

Scott: Which is why Devlin has been temporarily suspended from the hospital.

Joe: For how long?

Scott: Till after the trial. So obviously if he is found guilty he will never work at GH again.

Frank: Thanks Scott I really appreciate all of the work you've done.

Scott: Well I'm just glad I could help.

Upstairs Julie is sitting on the edge of Eve's bed as she finishes getting ready for her date with Scott.

Julie: So you and Scott have big plans?

Eve: Well I guess with Scott it's always a surprise.

Julie: That can be fun.

Eve: It's an adventure that's for sure.

Julie: Eve when you came in I couldn't help but notice how edgy you were.

Eve: Well I guess I really didn't know what to say.

Julie: Who dose? It's an awful situation, but Eve you can say what you want if I haven't broken yet then I don't think I will.

Eve: What would you say if I said it makes me sick that I ever loved that man.

Julie: Did you love him?

Eve: At one time yes very much.

Julie: Well I'd say that somewhere deep down there is a good man in him and that was probably the one you loved.

Eve: Julie is there anything I can do for you?

Julie: Yes don't treat me differently I'm the same person I was yesterday. Would you treat Karen differently if you didn't know about her being hurt.

Eve: Well no.

Julie: Then don't treat me differently. I've been thinking and talking about my feelings all day. And here is what I've come up with I don't want the abuse to become who I am it's part of my past but it isn't me. I don't want to be pitied, or treated like I'm going to shatter. Yes be considerate, and yes I'd rather not have it brought up every few seconds but if you want to say something or ask me something just do it. That is what you can do for me Eve.

Eve looks at Julie.

Eve: Have you been talking to Matt?

They both start laughing.

Julie: I guess I do sound a bit like Matt don't I.

Eve: Julie do you hate your father?

Julie thinks for a minute.

Julie: I hate what he did to me, but I know somewhere in there is a good man, and I'm trying very hard not to loose sight of that.

Eve: But you do want him punished right?

Julie: Of course but not because I want revenge on him but because what he did was wrong.

Eve: Boy your strong.

Julie: Well it's easy to say these thing now, and to act strong now. I haven't left the house since I told Frank and my Dad is locked up. Tomorrow starts a whole different ball game.

Eve smiles.

Eve: Well you're going to have a whole lot of players on your side.

Julie: Thanks Eve. Well you better get down stairs.

They come down together.

Scott: Well don't you look nice.

Eve: Your not looking so bad your self.

Scott: Are you ready?

Eve: Lets go.

Scott hugs Karen, then he takes Eve's hand and they leave. In the car they talk.

Eve: Julie is holding up pretty well.

Scott: Yeah well that's because she has support, Unlike my Karen had.

Eve: Scotty it's not your fault you didn't know.

Scott: Oh yeah the perfect excuse I can let myself off real easy can't I. Rhonda didn't tell me I had a little girl, then she brought in a child molester who abused my daughter. Hey not my fault folks! So what if my kids life was nearly destroyed!

Eve: Okay Scott almost is the operative word here. It wasn't destroyed okay she is fine. She's a doctor with a nice apartment a great boyfriend and tuns of friends. Karen is doing great.

Scott: No thanks to me.

Eve: Well not necessarily.

Scott: What do you mean?

Eve: Well it takes real strength, determination, and over all stubbornness to pull your self out of that kind of a past. Now I've met Rhonda and know offence intended but she doesn't appear to have any of those qualities. Which means Karen must have gotten those things from you, because I know for a fact that you have all three. So you see Scott you gave Karen the best help you could have ever given her you gave her the tools she would need to pull herself out of that life. The things she inherited from you saved her. Now Scott if you ask me that is a pretty great thing.

Scott stairs at Eve.

Eve: How do you do that? I mean how is it that you always know how to make me feel better?

Eve: Oh I guess I just fallow your lead after all you do the same for me.

Chapter 17
It is the next morning Frank and Julie are hurridly dressing for Devlins arainment. Julie looks very scared and is shaking a little. Frank comes over and hugs her tightly.

Frank: Everything is going to be okay now Julie. He is going to pay and you won't have to be afraid ever again.

Julie: Frank what if he beats the charges? I know you are working on getting people to testify against him but it could happen.

Frank: Julie lets not worry about that right now. For the moment we are winning. But Julie you have to know no matter what I will protect you.

Julie smiles a little.

Julie: I know.

Julie looks aprehensive for a minute and then continues.

Julie: Frank can we sit for a minute? There is something I need to tell you.

Frank: Ofcourse Julie you know you can tell me enything.

They sit on the edge of Franks bed and he holds her hands.

Julie: Frank I don't know if this will come up or not, but I'm sure my father will try every trick to get himself off. And that includeds trying to discredit me with things from my past. I don't want you to hear about this in court you should hear about it from me.

Frank: So what is it? And Julie just so you know if you'd rather I didn't know that's okay.

Julie smiles.

Julie: For along time I didn't want enyone to know. But I think I want you to know.

Frank: Okay.

Julie: When I was 18 I got pregnent again. This time it was my boyfriends. I maniged to hide it till my 6 month. When my dad found out he was lived he forced me to give it up for adoption and threatend to get my boyfriend kicked out of college if I didn't dump him. So I lost my boyfriend and my baby. In hine sight it really was the best thing to do. I mean at 18 I really wasn't ready to be a mom. But he may bring it up as a way to make me look bad.

Frank hugs Julie.

Frank: Julie I don't think that will make you look bad. It just makes you look like you were a teen who once made a mistake. The jury isn't going to hold that against you. If they do they're fools. I sertenly don't think eny less of you.

Julie: Thankyou.

Frank: Have you ever thought of finding your baby?

Julie: Yes a time or two. But I don't want to disruupt her life, although I would like to know if she's happy, and healthy.

Frank: Well I think my PI's can find out that much if you want them to.

Julie looks at Frank with tears in her eyes.

Julie: Frank Scanlon you never sees to amaz me.

Frank: What?

Julie laughs.

Julie: You couldn't be unsupportive if your life depended on it.

Frank: Not when it comes to you.

This kiss.

Joe knocks on the door.

Joe: Hey guys I don't mean to interupt but we really should get going.

Frank looks at Julie.

Frank: Ready?

Julie: As ready as I'll ever be.

They take each others hands and leave.

Ellen is at her apartment happily getting dressed, when the phone rings.

Ellen: Hello

Matt: Hey Ellen it's Matt.

Ellen: Well good morning.

Matt: Goodmorning to you to how did you sleep?

Ellen: Pretty good. How about you?

Matt: Well enough I guess. Listen Ellen did you hear about Devlin?

Ellen: Yes I did it's awful! How could someone do that to a child much less there own.

Matt: I know it really is horrible. Enyway he is being arained this smorning and I'm sure Julie could use all the moral suport she can get. So I was think maybe.

Ellen smiles.

Ellen: Maybe we should go to the arianment and then are picnic when ever the arainment ends.

Matt: Would that be okay?

Ellen: Ofcourse it would Julie is are friend, and you wouldn't be the man I care so much about if you didn't want to be there for her.

Matt: Your the best. Listen I'll come pick you up okay we need to hurry.

Ellen: I'll be ready.

They hang up.

Scott and Eve are getting ready at his place. Sereana is over at Lee and Gails.

Eve: So what's the stratigy for today?

Scott: Well Dara will try to get the bail as high as she can but in all honesty with his money it won't keep him held for long.

Eve: So you think the judge will grant bail.

Scott: Unforchunitly this isn't the kind of situation that judges diny bail in. They should but for the most part they don't.

Eve: But the restraining order will keep him away from Julie right?

Scott: Well it's suposed to. But I can't gairenty he'll listen to it. Although in a way it might be good if he dosn't listen to it because then he'll be thrown in jail for the duration of tial.

Eve: Do you think Julie will win?

Scott: I hope so but unforchunitly with all the time that has past it's going to be hard to prove. But I know Dara will do her best.

Eve: If she looses will the restraining order still be in effect?

Scott: Yes as long as she wants it. That has nothing to do with the trial.

Eve: Well at least that's something.

Scott: I wish I could do more.

Eve: I know you see Karen when you look at Julie.

Scott: It's hard not to. We better go.

They leave and in hand. At the court house the Scanlon group walks in together. Frank is holding one of Julie's hands, Joe is holding the other, Karen is holding Joe's other hand, and Mary is holding Franks free hand. Eve and Scott are already there. Everyone says hi and Scott hugs Karen.

Scott: Karen how about you and I have dinner tonight?

Karen: Sounds good to me.

Scott: Great I'll pick you up around 6pm.

Karen: Okay.

Matt and Ellen come in.

Karen: Hi Matt Hello Dr. Burges.

Ellen: Please Karen we're not at work call me Ellen.

Karen is a bit surpised.

Karen: Okay Ellen thanks.

Julie: Matt what are you doing here?

Matt: Ellen and I wanted to offer you some moral suport. How are you holding up?

Julie smiles at them aprishetivly.

Julie: That is so nice of both of you. Thank you so much. Well I'm standing.

Frank: And I'm going to see to it that she keeps standing.

The Judge comes in and everyone gets there seets. Devlin is brought in, he gives Julie a very nasty look. Frank and Joe both squeez Julie's hands.

Devlin pleeds not guilty which causes a bunch of grumbles from Julie's suporters. Then the lawyers argue over bail, finelly the judge anounces what bail will be.

Judge: I'm setting bail at 2 million dollers. Dr. Devlin when and if you post bail if you try to have eny contact with your daughter be it in person, on the phone, or by mail you will be thrown back in jail for contempt and stay there for the remainder of the triel. You are not to come with in 5 miles of your daughter is that clear.

Devlin: Yes.

Frank, Joe, Karen, and Mary hustle Julie out of the court room and into the car as quickly as they can. The others follow.

It is the next morning Frank and Julie are hurriedly dressing for Devlin's arraignment. Julie looks very scared and is shaking a little. Frank comes over and hugs her tightly.

Frank: Everything is going to be okay now Julie. He is going to pay and you won't have to be afraid ever again.

Julie: Frank what if he beats the charges? I know you are working on getting people to testify against him but it could happen.

Frank: Julie lets not worry about that right now. For the moment we are winning. But Julie you have to know no matter what I will protect you.

Julie smiles a little.

Julie: I know.

Julie looks apprehensive for a minute and then continues.

Julie: Frank can we sit for a minute? There is something I need to tell you.

Frank: Of course Julie you know you can tell me anything.

They sit on the edge of Franks bed and he holds her hands.

Julie: Frank I don't know if this will come up or not, but I'm sure my father will try every trick to get himself off. And that includes trying to discredit me with things from my past. I don't want you to hear about this in court you should hear about it from me.

Frank: So what is it? And Julie just so you know if you'd rather I didn't know that's okay.

Julie smiles.

Julie: For along time I didn't want anyone to know. But I think I want you to know.

Frank: Okay.

Julie: When I was 18 I got pregnant again. This time it was my boyfriends. I managed to hide it till my 6 month. When my dad found out he was lived he forced me to give it up for adoption and threatened to get my boyfriend kicked out of college if I didn't dump him. So I lost my boyfriend and my baby. In hind sight it really was the best thing to do. I mean at 18 I really wasn't ready to be a mom. But he may bring it up as a way to make me look bad.

Frank hugs Julie.

Frank: Julie I don't think that will make you look bad. It just makes you look like you were a teen who once made a mistake. The jury isn't going to hold that against you. If they do they're fools. I certainly don't think any less of you.

Julie: Thank you.

Frank: Have you ever thought of finding your baby?

Julie: Yes a time or two. But I don't want to disrupt her life, although I would like to know if she's happy, and healthy.

Frank: Well I think my PI's can find out that much if you want them to.

Julie looks at Frank with tears in her eyes.

Julie: Frank Scanlon you never sees to amaze me.

Frank: What?

Julie laughs.

Julie: You couldn't be unsupportive if your life depended on it.

Frank: Not when it comes to you.

This kiss.

Joe knocks on the door.

Joe: Hey guys I don't mean to interrupt but we really should get going.

Frank looks at Julie.

Frank: Ready?

Julie: As ready as I'll ever be.

They take each others hands and leave.

Ellen is at her apartment happily getting dressed, when the phone rings.

Ellen: Hello

Matt: Hey Ellen it's Matt.

Ellen: Well good morning.

Matt: Good morning to you to how did you sleep?

Ellen: Pretty good. How about you?

Matt: Well enough I guess. Listen Ellen did you hear about Devlin?

Ellen: Yes I did it's awful! How could someone do that to a child much less there own.

Matt: I know it really is horrible. Anyway he is being arraigned this morning and I'm sure Julie could use all the moral support she can get. So I was think maybe.

Ellen smiles.

Ellen: Maybe we should go to the arraignment and then are picnic when ever the arraignment ends.

Matt: Would that be okay?

Ellen: Of course it would Julie is are friend, and you wouldn't be the man I care so much about if you didn't want to be there for her.

Matt: Your the best. Listen I'll come pick you up okay we need to hurry.

Ellen: I'll be ready.

They hang up.

Scott and Eve are getting ready at his place. Serena is over at Lee and Gail's.

Eve: So what's the strategy for today?

Scott: Well Dara will try to get the bail as high as she can but in all honesty with his money it won't keep him held for long.

Eve: So you think the judge will grant bail.

Scott: Unfortunately this isn't the kind of situation that judges deny bail in. They should but for the most part they don't.

Eve: But the restraining order will keep him away from Julie right?

Scott: Well it's supposed to. But I can't guaranty he'll listen to it. Although in a way it might be good if he doesn't listen to it because then he'll be thrown in jail for the duration of trial.

Eve: Do you think Julie will win?

After dropping Mary, and Karen at the hospital for work Frank, Julie, and Joe come home.

Julie: So how long do you think it will take him to post bail? An hour 2 hours maybe.

Frank hugs her.

Frank: Julie you have nothing to worry about he isn't going to hurt you anymore. There is a restraining order if he even tries to talk to you he is going to be thrown back in jail. And don't forget once the trail is over he be locked up for a very long time.

Julie: If we win.

Frank: Hey don't talk like that of course we're going to win.

Joe: Julie I know no one has ever been able to protect you from him before but the reality is from what I've heard no one ever really tried. Julie you are with the Scanlons now and you're practically a member of are family. And incase you haven't noticed we take care of our own. So there is no chance in hell that he'll ever get near you again because if Frank, Mom, and I simply won't let him.

Frank: Joe's right and further more Julie you aren't a child anymore you have a lot more to fight him with then you did back then. You are strong and even though it's true that Joe, Mom and I will protect you even if we didn't I'm better you could handle yourself just fine.

Julie smiles.

Julie: Thank you both so much.

Just then the phone rings. Joe grabs it.

Joe: Hello Scanlons

Dr. Quartermaine: Is Dr. Julie Morris there.

Joe: May I ask who's calling.

Dr. Quartermaine: This is Dr. Quartermaine.

Joe: Hold on. Julie it's Dr. Quartermaine.

Julie: Thanks Joe. Hello Dr. Quartermaine how may I help you.

Dr. Quartermaine: I'm sorry to bother you I know this is a very stressful time for you but I have some good news for you. The procedure you performed on Frank was such a huge success that it's being written up in the New England Journal of Medicine, and the procedure since it has never been done before is being named after you.

Julie practically drops the phone. Frank and Joe look at her concerned.

Julie: Oh thank you Dr. Quartermaine thank you very much this is such an honor.

Dr. Quartermaine: Well your welcome and congratulations your career is really taking off. Bye the way the hospital is planning a dinner in your honor for May 1. It will be black tie, and held in the Versailles room at the Port Charles Hotel. Congratulations again.

Julie: Oh thank you so much I'm so honored.

They say good bye and she hangs up. Frank and Joe just look at her.

Frank: What's going on?

Joe: What did he want?

Julie: The procedure we did on Frank is being written up in the New England Journal of Medicine! And since it's never been done before they are going to name it after me! And on May 1 there is going to be a black tie dinner at the Versailles room at the Port Charles Hotel to honor me!

Frank lifts Julie up and twirls her around.

Frank: Julie this is FANTASTIC! Your career is exploding, oh Julie I new you were going to be a great doctor and look at you! Not even a resident yet, and you're already becoming famous! Well it's official if we ever get married and have kids, if one of them wants to make it on there own in medicine they'll have to change there name.

Julie: Frank!

They both laugh.

Joe: Congratulations Julie this is great you deserve it.

Julie suddenly looks upset.

Frank: Julie what's wrong what is it?

Julie: Frank I didn't invent it we all did. Joe, Karen, Matt, Grace, Ellen, and Audrey all played a big part. The procedure shouldn't be written up as mine nor should it be named after me and that dinner should be for all of us not just me. I have to call him back right now.

Joe: No Julie hold on, now that is not true. Okay we all helped, and we all gave are two cents on what we should do. But the fact is you performed it. You had the idea to do it and you did it that makes it yours. I know you don't want to steel it and I'm assuring you you aren't. The hospital knows who was in there and we've all told them who did what, and we've all agreed that you did the majority of it. This is yours and no one else's we simply assisted you.

Frank: Joe is right Julie no doctor creates anything on there own but if they do the majority of it then it's rightly theirs.

Julie: Are you sure?

Joe: I'm positive and I know the others feel the same way because we've all been talking about it.

Frank: Julie this is your time in the sun enjoy it.

Julie: Okay I'll try but if I give any speeches I'm giving due credit to all of you deal.

Joe: Deal.

Joe: Well I'm going to go take a shower.

Joe leaves.

Frank: Congratulations Julie I'm so proud of you.

Julie smiles.

Julie: Well I couldn't of done it with out you.

Frank: Oh so my falling off the roof was a good thing.

Julie: NO!

They both laugh and hug.

Frank: Well I better call my PI's and see what they've found, as well as let them know about your daughter.

Julie: Frank I don't want to disrupt her life. I just want to know that she's healthy and happy and has a good home.

Frank: Then that's exactly what we'll find out. Can you give me a little information to give them?

Julie: She was born March 3, 1990 at Chicago Hope Hospital at 3:18 am and she weighed 6 pounds and 8 ounces and was 17 inches long. Her fathers name is Zack Morris ironic huh. Anyway the name I gave her at birth was Amber Rose. That's all the information I have.

Frank: That's a beautiful name.

Julie: She was a beautiful baby.

Frank: With you as her mom I wouldn't doubt that.

Julie smiles.

Julie: Thank you.

Frank: Do you have any information about the adoption? A name of a lawyer or an organization?

Julie: No my father wouldn't tell me a thing. I got to hold her for an hour. Feed her once, and name her. Then she was taken from me and that was that.

Julie starts to cry. Frank hugs her.

Frank: Julie I'm so sorry.

Julie pulls herself together.

Julie: Well it probably was for the best.

Just then the door bell rings. Frank looks out the window and sees Nicole Devlin standing at the door. Her eyes are red and puffy and there are dark circles around them. Frank opens the door and lets her in. Nicole rushes over to Julie and hugs her tightly.

Nicole: Oh Julie oh my God my sweet baby I'm so so sorry. I heard all about it on the new. Oh Julie had I known had I only known I would never have let him hurt you.

Julie starts crying again.

Julie: I'm sorry mom I'm sorry.

Nicole looks at Julie in the face and holds onto her arms tightly.

Nicole: Now you listen to me I don't want to here you saying your sorry again. You have nothing to feel sorry about you have done nothing wrong. Bennett is the only one here who has done anything wrong. You are a fine young lady and you haven't done a thing to be sorry about. Do you understand me.

Julie smiles a little through her tears and nods. Nicole then turns to Frank.

Nicole: Oh Frank thank you so much for helping my daughter. You are a wonderful man and I'm so grateful that Julie has you.

Frank blushes.

Frank: Thank you for raising such an incredible lady she's the best.

Julie smiles.

Frank: Well I'm going to go make some calls.

Frank leaves the room.

Julie and Nicole sit on the couch.

Julie: How long are you here for?

Nicole: Until that monster has been locked up for good. I can't believe that I ever loved that man.

Julie: Great then you'll be here for the dinner.

Nicole: What dinner.

Julie fills her in.

Nicole: Oh Julie that is wonderful. I'm so happy for you congratulations.

Julie: Thanks it's nice to have a reason to be happy that's for sure.

They hug.

Matt and Ellen are in the park having a nice picnic.

Ellen: It's so peaceful out here.

Matt: Nothing but the birds and the trees and you and me.

Ellen: I can't think of anything nicer.

Matt: How about this.

Matt leans in and kisses her.

Ellen: Okay that's nicer.

They snicker a little.

Matt: So do you like your lunch?

Ellen: Yes this pasta salad is delicious. You're a great cook.

Matt: Thank you it's my moms recipe.

Ellen: She taught you to cook?

Matt: Yes, when I was young. I needed an escape a place where goodness was and that was my moms kitchen. I never fit in with the other kids in my family so I'd go hang out with my mom in the kitchen and she'd teach me to cook.

Ellen: Well that must be a nice memory to have.

Matt: It can be nice, but at times rather sad since I know the odds are I'll never see her again.

Ellen: Never say never Matt, I was sure I'd never talk to my mom again and I was calling her last night for her apple pie recipe. Do you like it?

Matt: Yes it's very good. I no I shouldn't say never but sometimes I don't know what else to say.

Ellen: How about for now you won't be seeing her.

Matt smiles.

Matt: For now hmm I like that. You always do know just what to say don't you.

Ellen: That's funny I think you always no what to say.

They both laugh.

Ellen suddenly gets real quiet.

Matt: Ellen you okay?

Ellen: Oh I guess I was just thinking about Julie. What Devlin did to her is just so un thinkable. I mean my Mom may have hurt my feeling but Matt she never ever hurt me. That a parent could do that it's just so unthinkable.

Matt: I know, I mean at least when my Dad and brother were chasing me there was some reason! But with Julie I mean you can even begin to make sense of it.

Ellen: I was glad to see her getting so much support.

Matt: She's going to need it.

Ellen: Well lets talk of more pleasant things. Do you come to this park alot I noticed you new right where you wanted to go.

Matt: It's a thinking space I guess you could say. I come here alot to sort things out, or to contemplate or just be alone. I've never shared this spot with anyone before.

Ellen: So I'm the first person to see your special spot.

Matt: Basically.

Ellen: Matt I'm honored thank you.

Matt: Well you felt comfortable enough with me to show me your art I wanted to share something special with you. And speaking of nice things I heard about some great news Julie will be getting real soon.

Ellen: What?

Matt: That procedure she did on Frank is being written up in the New England Journal of Medicine, and since it's never been done before it's being named after her and the hospital is throwing a big black tie dinner in her honor at the Versailles room at the Port Charles Hotel.

Ellen: Oh that is wonderful news! I'll have to call her later and congratulate her. She deserves some happiness.

Matt: We all do.

They kiss.