3.

Roger had retired to his room on the garden level below by the time Jax walked back through the main level with Sam's bag in hand. He opened her door and stepped in quietly so as not to disturb her from her sleep. Jax set the duffel down gently against the wall near the bathroom where she would be sure to see it when she woke. He was on his way out when he was halted by the sound of muffled cries. He turned to look at her. The room was dark, but the small amount of light escaping the bathroom allowed him to make out her small form on the large bed. Her back was to him and she was curled on her side clutching a pillow as she wept. Her entire upper body shook with the force of her softened sobs.

Empathy filled him as his jaw tightened and blue eyes teared up at seeing her that way, so broken. He knew exactly what she felt because he'd been feeling that way too. It was a piercing pain that sliced through his heart at the worst of times and remained a dull ache at best, but never completely gone. It was always there just waiting for some reminder of what might have been, some trigger of what he'd lost to strike and shatter his heart all over again.

He thought he'd been doing better the last few months, but the truth was he'd just gotten better at denying it. He'd tried everything he could think to rid himself of his love for her, but his heart could not forget. Every exciting wonderful chaotic infuriating moment he'd shared with Carly was tied to every beat of his heart. And, in an attempt to guard himself from the worst of it, he'd slowly found himself closing off all emotion, any feeling that might remind him of her.

Standing there now, watching Sam experience the worst of it, brought it all rushing to the surface for him again. But for the first time since losing Carly a more dominant emotion took over than the pain, compassion. He was overwhelmed with a fierce desire to help the devastated woman before him. Jax made his way to the edge of her bed and sat, cupping her upper arm and giving it a gentle squeeze. "Sam, I'm so sorry."

It wasn't much, but he knew from experience there was nothing he could really say to make it better. All he could do in that moment was be there for her.

Sam hadn't noticed his presence over her cries. She startled at his hand on her arm. She hadn't even felt the bed dip as Jax sat next to her. She hoped she hadn't woken him. She had no idea how far his room from hers might be, or how long she'd been sleeping when she woke moments ago with a full bladder. The last thing she remembered was falling apart in his arms on the couch. She knew he must have carried her to his guest room and was thankful for all of the kindness he'd shown her tonight.

She'd followed the light to use the commode and washed her hands before removing her socks, jeans and bra to sleep more comfortably. It was when she'd gone to climb back in that empty bed all alone that the painful memories began to sift through her mind with relentless fluidity. It was always worse at night and, truthfully, she wasn't sure how many more like it she could take. She'd barely survived when she lost Jason the last time. Somehow, they'd managed to hold on to their love through all the pain and find their way back to one another, but Sam knew there would be no going back this time.

She turned on her back to face him after managing to stifle her sobs, but couldn't stop the trembling of her lips or the tears from falling. She blinked them away, and was touched by the tender concern she found in his expression as they stared at one another. Finally, he could take the pain in her eyes no longer and pulled her up and into his arms once again as she allowed him to just hold her.

Memories continued to flash through her mind as she leaned against his chest with one hand near his heart and the other around his back. Sam closed her eyes as he wrapped his arms around her and cried as she remembered all the times Jason held her that way and how safe she'd always felt. She just wanted the pain to go away. She wanted, needed, something to stop the memories and all the unanswered questions that left her feeling inadequate and unworthy.

Sam felt his cheek against the top of her head as he rubbed her back in a comforting gesture. She pulled back as he lifted his head to find her looking up at him in silent question. She looked into his eyes and saw her own pain reflected there and knew Jax was hurting the same as her. An intense moment passed between them as she debated her next move. Peace. Love. Happiness. This may not bring her happiness and it wasn't really love, but it wasn't a reckless act of self-loathing either. This would bring her peace, if only for the night. She could see he needed it too and they could give that to each other. It didn't have to mean anything more, that gift alone was enough.

She sighed with trepidation, praying she was making the right choice. "Stay with me?" She whispered with a hint of vulnerability that brought out every protective instinct he'd ever had.

He smiled down at her softly as his hand found her cheek to caress. Such pain and still such beauty. He was reminded of what an incredibly desirable woman she'd always been. It would be so easy to kiss her, make love to her, if she were to ask that of him, need that from him. "Maybe we shouldn't. We're hurting and we've both had a fair amount to drink tonight. I don't want us to do anything you'll regret in the morning."

She did have a lot to drink, but it would take a lot more to make her drunk. She knew what she was doing. She was also clearheaded enough to notice he hadn't included himself in having regrets of anything that might happen. He would make love to her if she wanted, she could see it in his eyes, but he put her first. It felt nice to be put first. Sam stared up at him feeling even more confident in her decision. "I'll worry about the morning when it comes. Right now, I only know I'll regret it if I let you walk out of here and leave me alone again."

Jax nodded in solemn understanding. He'd endured many lonely nights since losing Carly and it was hell. He rose from the bed, walked to the other side and removed his shoes. Sam held the covers open for him and he laid down next to her, welcoming her into his arms as she moved closer to his body and rested her head on his chest. It wasn't the safety or love she'd always felt when Jason held her, but it wasn't alone either. And there was comfort in being held by someone that understood her pain.

She lie there like that for several moments, his heartbeat nearly lulling her to sleep until she recalled how Jason's heartbeat had always done the same. She felt like she was betraying him, lying there with another man that way, but she needed it. She needed the comfort, needed some peace and for once in what felt like forever she chose to love herself enough again to put her needs first. She turned to her side with her back to his chest, drawing his arm around her as Jax pulled her close. She sighed in sweet relief feeling sleep slowly claim her once again as the peace she'd been denied for weeks finally enveloped her in its warm cocoon.

It was hours later when Sam opened her eyes and found herself surrounded by simple beauty everywhere she looked. She had no idea of the exact time, but as the bright rays of daylight filled the room she could tell it wasn't too long after sunrise. A gentle breeze caressed her exposed skin above the luxurious white linens and matelasse coverlet as she lie entranced by everything she saw. She was lying in a beautifully carved four poster mahogany king-sized bed a comfortable distance from Jax. Her one hand lie under her cheek against her pillow and the other rested over his warm chest as it rose and fell in an evened pace that told her he was still sleeping. The warmth of his body next to her should have felt awkward and wrong, but all she felt was contented. Peace had found her the night before and she was relieved to find it hadn't left her in the morning light.

Her gaze drifted from Jax to what had to be the focal point of the room. Three sets of double French doors were centered on the wall directly across from her. The folding glass doors and pistachio green plantation shutters had been closed last night, as the winter temperatures were pretty chilly after sunset, but were fully opened now. She remembered the bed shifting and hearing the toilet flush and sink running in the early dawn and figured Jax must have opened them then.

There was a very large window open as well on the wall to the right of the bed and, together with the wall of French doors, she was afforded a 270 degree wall to wall view, expanding the room to seemingly draw the blue waters she'd sailed yesterday right to her bedside. A private pergola covered terrace sat just off the French doors and she could see a small wrought iron table and chairs. It would make for a splendid place of repose to enjoy shore breezes and be captivated by the endless azure and turquoise palette of the sky and sea. She, however, was happy for the moment just to continue enjoying it right from her spot in the bed.

She turned onto her back, careful not to wake her bed-mate, and rearranged her pillows to see better. Tearing her gaze from the mesmerizing pull of the view outdoors, she took note of the beautiful interior as well. There was a small writing desk with an intricately carved mahogany desk chair to the right of the bed. To her left, on her side, was a round walnut night table holding a lamp with an ebony marble classic urn-shaped base and golden-caramel raw silk shade on top. The wall to the left had two doors. One led to the adjoining bath and the other, she assumed, to the rest of the house. She saw her black duffel on the floor between the two and smiled. Jax must have brought that in for her last night. That must have been when he'd heard her because her bag hadn't been there when she'd gotten up to use the bathroom.

She turned to her side, her back to Jax, and hugged an extra pillow, enjoying the peacefulness of that quiet moment. She curled her legs up into the bottom of the king pillow as she hugged it and sighed into it. She hadn't felt that relaxed in weeks. She felt the bed shift behind her and a hand on her upper arm as his soft kiss landed on top of her head. "Good morning."

She turned to her other side to face him, still hugging the soft pillow that now lie between them.

"Good morning." She returned with a smile.

He was on his side, smiling back at her with his head propped up by his hand and elbow.

"Any regrets?" He asked with a hint of worry in his light blue gaze.

Her brows rose then softened. "Of last night? No." She told him. "I needed some peace and you gave me that, if only for a little while, and I don't regret allowing myself some comfort."

She paused and looked up at him thoughtfully. "Do you?"

He shook his head, a soft smile still in place. "No. I needed some peace too Sam. It's why I bought this place."

He motioned his head around the room. "Being close to the water relaxes me and there are no memories here to haunt me. I thought it would help, and it has, some, but it's hard to outrun the ghosts. Last night was the first night since leaving Port Charles I was actually able to let the pain go and feel me again."

"For me too." She admitted, not wanting to think of all the lonely nights ahead of her. She couldn't ask Jax to stay with her every night, could she?

"I'm thankful we were able to give each other something we both needed so much." His gaze shifted down while considering his next words. Jax didn't want to be presumptuous, but he needed to be honest. He wasn't sure where things might lead if he continued sleeping in Sam McCall's bed and, while the last thing he wanted to do was anything that might bring her more pain or regret, he knew he would never deny her if she wanted him, needed him that way.

Maybe it would help if they established where they stood right from the start. He looked back up at her again. "It's just... I don't think either of us are ready for another relationship, not when we're still clearly in love with other people. I'm just not sure what that leaves us with."

Sam considered his words and had to agree. Despite welcoming him in her bed last night, she wasn't ready for a relationship with anyone else. She wasn't sure she would ever be ready.

"How about with friendship?" She offered.

"I could use a good friend." He smiled then grinned widely. "One who isn't halfway around the world, that is."

"Ugh." Sam groaned into her pillow. "You and my mother, don't remind me."

She pulled her face to look at him again. "Is it too weird for you?" She asked him in earnest. "Us being close like this again, I mean?"

He was once her lover, but she hadn't thought of him that way in a long time. He was just Jax and, more recently, known to her as her mother's best friend.

"No, Sam." He assured her. "You and I were together long before we ever knew your biological mother happened to be my best friend. You are your own woman, a tough beautiful woman I might add, and how I identify you is completely separate from my relationship with Alexis."

Sam bit her bottom lip and studied him. "Really? You're sure because, I mean, I understand if you'd rather I go because you think this is going to put a strain on your relationship with my mother. She doesn't know where I am Jax, and I'm not ready to tell her. I don't even know if she's aware I've left town."

Jax nodded. He was sad to hear Sam hadn't told Alexis goodbye. Alexis had confided in him and he knew all the reasons for the tension between the two, but also knew there was still love there on both sides. He hoped he might convince her to at least call her mother to let her know she was safe, but he would respect Sam's choice either way. Her presence was already helping him and he hoped to do the same for her. Besides, Alexis would want him to look out for her eldest daughter as long as Sam would let him.

"I'm positive that I'd rather you stay, not go. It might take some time, adjusting to the new dynamic, but I promised myself last night when you first fell asleep in my arms I would never write you off again Sam, and I meant it. I want this, whatever this turns out to be. I know I want you in my life again and I'm not letting you go this time. I won't walk away from you, never again." He vowed as he held her gaze and she felt her eyes water at his sincerity.

"Thank you, Jax." She whispered, her voice full of emotion. "You don't know how much I needed to hear that."

"No need to thank me. I'm just realizing something I should have seen years ago."

"What's that?" She sat up suddenly, curiosity filling her as the pillow she'd grown attached to covered her underwear and bare thighs.

Jax lifted and fixed his pillows to sit up against the headboard. "That I was a fool not to give you the time and understanding you needed to really trust in me so that we could have made it work."

He touched her heart with his admission, but she didn't want him harboring any regrets, new or old, because she didn't. "I just don't think it was meant to be back then. I think the fears and expectations we each had at the time were always going to get in the way, but maybe now that we've overcome a few things, learned a few things, we'll end up with something even better. Whatever that something turns out to be." She smiled.

"Why Sam McCall," He grinned at her in surprise. "You've gone and wised up on me while I wasn't looking!"

"You know what they say." She told him wryly. "Never turn your back on the ocean, or Sam McCall. We just might surprise you."

"I'll keep that in mind." He replied with a smirk.

"See that you do." She told him in mock sternness, then grinned.

Jax grinned too. He couldn't help it. Her smile was contagious. "Now, what do you want to do today?"

"Have breakfast? Lounge by the pool? Maybe tour the grounds or your new command?" He asked as he sat up straight.

"Command?" She said, surprised. "You really want me to captain your boat?"

"I do." He nodded. "I mean, if you want to. I'd love to sail off on another adventure with you. You pack a mean survival kit." He winked playfully.

Sam laughed at the reminder. "Planning on getting us stranded on another island?"

He shrugged his shoulder. "I can think of far worse people to be stranded with."

"Like who?" She wanted to know. "And don't say Sonny, too easy." She told him with a smile.

"Tracy Quartermaine." He said without hesitation.

"Uh-huh, I see. So, I'm just a cut above Tracy, huh?" She narrowed her eyes and tried to hide the grin at the corners of her mouth.

"I'd say you're a cut above everyone." He quipped.

"Flatterer." She accused with a roll of her eyes.

"Guilty." He confessed unabashedly and they both laughed.

She thought seriously for a moment of what he'd just suggested. He wanted her to work for him. The job was exactly what she needed right now, but she wasn't sure it was such a good idea. "Maybe we shouldn't mix business with personal. We tried that before, remember? It didn't work out and I don't want to start my new life taking advantage of our new friendship."

Jax shook his head. "First of all, you wouldn't be taking advantage. This is a legitimate opening I need filled and you are more than qualified for the job. I'm not offering you anything more than I would any other qualified candidate. It's true our last business relationship together didn't work out, but not because of any problems with us clashing in the office. On the contrary, I recall us working quite well together. Your heart just wasn't in the work, but this is totally different. You love being on the water and you will be the boss where that boat is concerned. You're the expert, the captain, and it will be your orders everyone follows, including me. I just get to set the destination and enjoy the ride, and the company."

"Sounds pretty good." She had to admit.

Jax huffed in mock smugness. "I don't mean to boast, but I think it sounds pretty perfect."

She thought it over another minute. "I'll accept on one condition."

"Oh terms!" He enthused. "My favorite part of the negotiation. I should probably inform you now the salary and benefits with my company are extremely competitive. You'd be hard-pressed to find a better offer."

"I have no doubt." She smiled slyly. "But this condition is a deal-breaker."

His brows furrowed. "Let's hear it."

"If I take the job, as your ship's captain," She maintained a serious expression. "You have to swear to never touch another flare gun again, ever."

"Oh ho!" He called out as she laughed. "Low blow." He told her for bringing up the time he sunk her boat after shooting it with a flare.

He shook his head chuckling at her antics. "You drive a hard bargain, McCall, but you have got yourself a deal." He held out his hand to shake.

"Then you, Mr. Jacks, have got yourself a ship's captain." She accepted with a shake of his hand.

"And a friend?" He added as he gripped her hand tighter.

"And a friend." She agreed happily as he smiled and shook again.

"Wonderful! Now that that's settled, how about some breakfast?"

Her eyes lit up as her stomach came to life with a grumbling roar. "Now that sounds perfect, but I'd like to shower and change first."

"Great." He told her, standing from the bed and retrieving his shoes. "I'll leave you to it and let Roger know you'll be joining us shortly."

"Roger? The man that told you I was interested in the job?"

"Yes. He's my personal assistant. He's been with the Jacks family for years. He handles all my affairs in country and coordinates my schedule with staff abroad as well. He's also the house manager here and butler of sorts. He juggles a lot of hats and one of them is as an excellent chef. Truth be told, he's more like family than an employee."

"He sounds really important to you. As long as you've known him, I'm surprised we never met before." But Sam was glad to hear Jax hadn't been completely alone all that time.

Jax sat back on the bed for a moment as he continued. "Roger always remained here in Australia. He could never bear to leave it for longer than the occasional business trip. My father hired him shortly after making his fortune in Alaska. Our parents didn't want to uproot the family until they were certain the move was worth it, so my brother and I were still living here in Australia with our mother and her widowed sister. My father felt bad knowing my mother was struggling to keep up with us on her own. Jerry and I were quite a handful at 10 and 15 and needed a strong hand, so my father hired Roger as our butler and to also act on his behalf with disciplinary enforcement when necessary. I credit his guidance for keeping me from following in my brother's delinquent footsteps. Unfortunately, some very bad life experiences led my brother down a darker path than even my parent's or Roger's good influence could overcome." He admitted grimly then brightened somewhat as he spoke again. "I can't wait for you to meet him. He's going to love you." He assured her.

"I look forward to meeting him too." She told him and she did. By the time they had gotten to Jax' father, it was too late for Sam to meet him. He died just before Jax could give him the infamous cards known as the dead man's hand which Jax had reclaimed for his father after they'd been stolen. But this man had known Jax since he was a child and to hear the love and admiration in which Jax spoke of him suggested he'd been like a second father to him.

"Excellent!" Jax beamed.

"Meet me in the great room when you're ready. The layout is a little unusual, but just follow the gallery to the door at the end and you'll find us." He instructed.

"See you soon." He left her with a parting smile.

"See you soon." She echoed, smiling too as she watched him close the door behind him.

Once alone, Sam unpacked her toiletries and an outfit and went into the bathroom. It, too, was beautiful yet very simplistic. There was something very soothing about every single thing her eyes set sight on in the home. Again, the walls were cream with bright white trim. The stone floors were different, but similar with varying shades of mocha to latte. The bathroom had a decorative tile border centered on the dark finished cabinetry that housed a white under-mounted sink with a latte polished marble surround and back-splash. The marble extended to the over-sized tub on the right that featured a large window running the length of it with the same folding glass windows and pistachio plantation shutters that adorned all the doors and windows. Those shutters were wide open as well, overlooking gardens and the sea. A set of double French doors led from the bathroom to a private deck with an outdoor shower.

She peered out, afraid of being discovered half clothed, only to find herself totally alone. It was as if the house really were stranded on its own deserted island. The only sounds to be heard were the waves crashing into shore and the occasional sea bird squawking overhead. There was also a secluded garden off that room with an inlaid mosaic tile fountain. She stepped into the large glass enclosed steam shower to turn it on and stared at the tub and its incredible view while waiting for the water to warm.

It was just begging for a bubble bath. She wasn't sure how long she would be there, but hoped to make good use out of it at least once before she left. Of course, she'd have to buy more bubble bath, she thought, as she'd left hers behind. She wondered how long it would take Jason to notice and throw out when he did?

Thirty minutes later Sam was dressed and refreshed. Although it was winter, the temperature was fairly warm. Gus had told her the weather there that time of year was usually in the seventies with mostly sun and occasional rain. So, she dressed in a pair of olive capri pants that accentuated her golden skin tone and a white tank top. She threw on a pair of sandals in case she decided to take a walk after breakfast then gave herself one final check in the mirror before leaving her room in search of Jax and food. She considered making her bed before she left, but her stomach growled in dissent and so she left it a mess intending to make it as soon as she'd eaten.

Sam followed the hallway and Jax had been right. The layout was a bit unusual. It was as if her bedroom was a separately air-conditioned pod that was securely linked through an open-air gallery to the main part of the home. The elegant covered hall featured traditional floor to ceiling pistachio colored wrought iron gates and Tuscan columns entwined with heavenly smelling night blooming Jasmine and some other green and flowering vine she couldn't identify, perhaps a hibiscus. The floors were finished in the same Travertine tiles as the outdoor terraces in her bed and bath, and just beyond the gates she could see a lovely garden.

She followed the hall to the end and immediately recognized the great room as she made her entrance there. It was a masterpiece of elegance and design. The main living area consisted of a 42 foot great room, a separate kitchen and a cozy alcove that looked to be a combination of a library and home office. Jax was seated at a large walnut desk, facing her on his cell. He had showered and changed as well and was once again dressed in casual attire. It was odd, but in a good way, to see him dressed that way rather than in his typical power suit.

He wore a loosely fitted champagne linen shirt with an open collar and cuffs similar to the one he'd worn the previous day and she could see below the desk it was paired with a pair of toffee colored chinos. The most shocking part of all was that he was barefoot. He looked comfortable and totally relaxed as he finished up what she assumed was some important business transaction. He smiled up at her when he noticed her presence and held up a finger indicating he'd be a moment. She nodded and continued to look around.

It had been dark when she arrived, but in the light of day the house simply took her breath away. She walked about the room just taking it all in and stopped at the front door which had to offer the best view of all. Entering the covered front veranda and the arched foyer instantly presented full stunning views of the ocean and pool. A 24 foot cathedral ceiling was the crowning point of the room with all hand painted and hand rubbed wood. A formal dining area set to the left just off of the kitchen and appeared to comfortably seat eight. It shared the same panoramic ocean views as all the other areas of the home she'd seen so far and it was amazing.

Jax told his human resources director he would have to call her back when he saw Sam, and exited his office to join her. "There you are." He said as he approached her near the front entrance. "Did you find everything okay?"

"Everything was wonderful, Jax, thank you. This place is amazing." She told him in sheer wonder as she took another look around.

Jax smiled. "That's the exact reaction I had when I found it. It was a rental at the time, but I had to have it so I made the owner a deal and now it's my own little piece of paradise."

"It's beautiful. I can't wait to see the rest."

"I'd be happy to give you a tour after breakfast. I think Roger may be ready to serve any moment now." As if on cue, Roger appeared from the kitchen.

"Pardon me, sir." Roger announced his entrance awaiting the okay to continue.

"Breakfast?" Jax said.

"Yes sir. I thought you and your guest might like to dine on the ocean-side veranda. The weather report calls for an especially nice day. I have taken the liberty of setting places for two. I shall see to it your meals are served as soon as you are ready." Roger informed him.

"Excellent. Thank you." Jax replied. "Sam," He looked back to her. "This is Roger, my go to guy for just about everything around here. I'd be lost without him. Roger," He looked back to his dear friend and employee. "This is Ms. Sam McCall, an old and new friend." Jax grinned remembering their renewed vow of friendship.

"Welcome to Shambhala, Ms. McCall. It is a pleasure to meet you." Roger greeted with a warm smile and welcoming nod.

Sam smiled as her brows furrowed to the name. "Thank you, you can call me Sam. It's very nice to be... here and it's nice to meet you too, but what is Shambhala? Are we not in Brisbane anymore?" She turned to Jax in question, not that she really cared, she was just curious.

Jax chuckled.

"My apologies." Roger explained. "Shambhala is the name given this estate by the original owner. In Tibetan Buddhist tradition, Shambhala is a mythical kingdom hidden somewhere in Inner Asia. It is commonly understood to be a 'place of peace, tranquility, and happiness'."

Sam smiled. "I think the name suits it perfectly."

"As did I which is why I decided to keep it when I bought it." Jax agreed.

"Roger, I think Sam and I will head out to the veranda now." He informed, recalling the way Sam's stomach had growled in her room earlier.

"Very good, sir. Breakfast shall be served momentarily." Roger gave a parting nod and smile to Sam and made his way back toward the kitchen.

Jax led Sam out of the living area through more French doors with open plantation shutters to a 42' by 16' covered ocean-side veranda with outdoor seating areas and an outdoor dining area with bar fridge and Alfresco BBQ and grill. The veranda overlooked a 40 foot infinity edge pool and hot tub as well as the ocean which could be reached by following a trail of gently winding stepping stones from the deck to the sea. "Jax, every time I think I've seen the most spectacular part of this home I take another step and find something even more beautiful. You really have found your own little piece of paradise."

"Why thank you, Sam." He told her as he held out the chair for her where Roger had set a place for her to the left of the head of the table.

"I hope you will consider it your little piece of paradise too. I would love for you to stay as long as you like." He invited.

"Wow, Jax, that's really generous of you, but won't you need me on board." Sam had just assumed he would want her on call and ready for duty at any time.

"Only if you prefer it. I made sure the captain's quarters were provided with ample luxury, but even still I'm not sure it compares to what I have here. Your salary will afford you to buy a place of your own as well if you like, but I'd really love it if you stayed on as my guest, at least for a little while." He implored. "This place feels happier already with you in it."

Sam thought about it. It really was beautiful there and having Jax to talk to was a nice distraction. She had about seven grand in savings plus the three grand she'd made working for Gus, but it was comforting to have that to fall back on. She didn't want to use it unless necessary. From what Gus had determined from his friend, the job would start immediately, so it wouldn't put too much of a dent in savings if she rented a hotel room until her paychecks started coming in. She looked over at Jax as she considered it. He looked so hopeful that she would stay. She'd enjoyed his company and he'd seemed to enjoy hers too. She figured she could always find another place if she began to feel like a burden so why not accept her friend's offer in the generous spirit it had been given?

"Thank you, Jax. I'd love to stay, for a little while at least." Sam accepted.

"Best news I've heard all day, aside from your acceptance as my captain. Speaking of, I was just on the phone with HR. They're sending some forms over they'll need you to fill out. I'll check to see if they've arrived after breakfast. If we can get them sent back by noon tomorrow they can make the cutoff for payroll and your paychecks will start next week."

"That sounds great." She answered as Roger appeared with a tray of a piping hot pot of coffee, sugar, cream and two mugs.

He set it down on the bar and turned a moment later with a mug for Sam. "Black, three sugars ma'am."

She looked at him pleasantly surprised. "Thank you, how did you know?"

"A little birdie told me." He joked.

Sam smiled and looked back over to Jax. Did he really remember how she took her coffee after all this time? Jax shrugged as if he had no clue.

"If you happen to see that little birdie, let me know will you? Roger's been swearing by him for years and I still haven't figured out how he knows everything." He whispered conspiratorially.

Roger released a sly smile as Jax smirked and accepted his coffee.

"Breakfast will be right out." Roger informed then retreated toward the kitchen.

Four hours later time had flown by and Sam was having the best day she remembered having in weeks. She'd been having too much fun reacquainting herself with Jax and getting to know Roger to dwell on what she'd left behind. Roger had outdone himself with breakfast. They were first served with fresh squeezed orange juice, a fluffy spinach and cheese omelette and an assortment of sliced melon, followed by decadent strawberry and cream Belgian waffles, a side of tender crunchy bacon and more coffee. The conversation flowed naturally at breakfast and Sam was thankful there didn't seem to be any awkwardness.

After clearing the dishes, Roger had poured them a final cup of coffee and informed them the e-mail Jax had been waiting on arrived. Roger had taken the liberty of printing her forms out and leaving them on the writing desk in her room for her. When Sam returned there after breakfast to make her bed and fill them out, she found Roger had already made her bed for her. Roger also left a note that if she would leave them on the desk in the library when she'd completed them, he would see to it HR had them before the cutoff.

What's more, when she used her bathroom before taking the finished forms to the library, she'd found a lovely little basket filled with two different scents of lotion, soap, shampoo, conditioner, bubble bath, candles, a popular brand of women's disposable razors, long-handled loofah and a thick white terry robe with matching bath slippers. It was incredibly thoughtful and when Sam had thanked Jax she learned he knew nothing about it. It was all Roger. What a sweetheart. The only other person to have ever anticipated her needs better had been Jason. When she'd tried to thank him, he'd claimed ignorance as well, stating it must have been that little birdie who'd made her bed and left the basket.

Next, she made Jax hold to his word and give her a tour of the home and surrounding grounds. Shambhala was a 7,300 square foot Barbadian-style beachfront villa, where interior and exterior spaces flowed seamlessly into one another. It was situated on over two gorgeous acres in a secluded community with only a smattering of other residences to share a 3-mile long pristine beach. The open plan included five bedrooms, six and a half baths, and three car garage.

During the tour, Jax had also shown her where they kept the Sea Kayaks, diving equipment, kite boarding and snorkeling gear and Sam couldn't wait to put it all to use with him. They were both excited with all the plans they were making to enjoy their time together.

After breakfast and the tour, Jax insisted on bringing her down to the marina for her first glimpse of her new station. When she caught sight of it standing on the dock she'd been as excited as a kid on Christmas morning. She shouted and jumped up and down like she'd won the lottery. She'd seen super yachts before, but this one was the sleekest ship she'd ever seen. It was 354 feet long with a beam of 54 feet and she had never in her life been in command of such a stunning vessel. Before she knew it, in her excitement, she'd grabbed Jax and kissed him full on the lips. She pulled back grinning, and he'd just laughed at the childlike jubilence dancing in her eyes then hugged her and swung her around in a circle as she laughed with him. It was the most fun he'd had in months and it felt incredibly good to be able to make someone happy, especially someone who hurt as much as him.

Jax took his time showing her around The Lady Jane personally. It was hard to tell just from the sweeping profile, but the emphasis had been placed on large indoor gathering spaces, all air-conditioned of course, not extensive alfresco entertainment. Whether guests boarded from a dockside passerelle or via the water, the starboard side of the lower deck had a hatch, they could gather in a large reception area outfitted with both an elevator and a grand staircase.

Ten guest suites occupied the forward portion of the main deck, with a saloon aft that led out to a swimming pool and seating/sunbathing area. Nearly the entire deck above was devoted to the owner, complete with an office, gym, sauna, private dining room and even accommodations for a personal assistant. Two additional suites for relatives as well as a family saloon were also on the owner's deck, aft of the above-mentioned rooms.

The dining room was one more level up, on the bridge deck, for the most incredible vistas attainable aboard ship. Thirty-three people could gather there at a U-shape table, keeping everyone within eyesight and easing conversations. The engines, technology and performance were second to none including every security measure known to man and the ability for a helicopter to land and refuel on the sundeck to take people anywhere they wanted or needed to go. The jet-skis and other toys were limitless as well and this was only touching the surface of everything this floating palace offered guest and crew.

It took nearly two hours to tour the entire ship and even that was only a basic tour. It would require weeks for Sam to learn it inside and out. Her brain was racing with all the things she would need to do; interview for a full crew, hire them, ensure they were trained to her standards as well as the capabilities and features of that particular vessel, plan and run drills for safety, chart a course as soon as their destination was set, stock the boat with food, fuel and supplies, make sure all the paperwork was in order and start a new captain's log. She couldn't wait to get started.

She hadn't felt that much passion for anything in a long time, but it was like a dream come true for her. She was her own boss and though she did have an 'in' with the man who hired her she knew when it came to that particular area Jax had been right to say she was more than qualified for the job. She found it impossible to put into words just how good it felt to know she landed a job she loved on her own merit that would allow her to take care of herself without depending on anyone else for anything unless she chose to do so.

She couldn't thank Jax enough for helping her realize that goal and, when she tried, just the significance of how much it meant to her had brought tears to her eyes and a lump to her throat. But they were happy tears. For the first time in she couldn't remember how long, they were happy tears and she hugged her new-found old friend to her side and simply choked out, "Thank you," as they made their way back down the dock, back to their own little piece of paradise.

xxxxx

Sonny sat at his desk at home waiting on a call he wasn't sure how to handle. It was nearly 10pm and his mind was reeling. It had been eighteen days since Sam McCall ducked out of town, leaving his best friend high and dry. Eighteen days with no word, even to her mother who was still undergoing chemo. No word to anyone other than a call to Amelia in which Sam refused to return and had basically left her producer holding the bag.

Not that Sonny gave a damn about Everyday Heroes tanking. That show had been nothing but a pain in his ass since Sam started filming. Truth be told, he wasn't all that concerned with how it had sent Amelia's career into a nose-dive either. She was just a passing fancy to keep him from focusing on what he really wanted and couldn't have, what Carly refused to give him, a real marriage instead of one based solely on her desire to keep her son's father out of prison.

In fact, he'd already written Amelia off which was just as well since she'd packed up a few days ago and headed back to the big city. Now it was Kate claiming more and more of his attention each day. That is, when his thoughts weren't devoted to getting his enforcer and friend off a murder rap. So no, he wasn't concerned with some show failing or how it effected a former fling, but what did concern him and what did matter to Sonny was what Sam's actions toward Jason and Amelia, the man she claimed to love and woman she called a friend, said about her, what it really said about her. After all, actions spoke louder than words. Right?

Jason's arrest had made international news and yet Sam had yet to return to offer help, or even make a phone call to see how serious things really were this time and express her concern or sympathy. It told him Amelia must be right. It was all a con. Sam didn't really give a damn about Jason, or any of them. Jason, he'd promised him that he would follow up on every lead that computer geek Spinelli came up with and report it back to him and so far he'd kept his word. They followed two out of three leads that had left them with nothing. The last lead had been a cargo freighter listing a last minute female crew addition. Sonny had paid off an informant down at pier 17 who confirmed the crew member was Sam McCall according to what he'd overheard the harbormaster mention to his assistant.

Spinelli had also been able to trace the phone Sam had used to call Amelia as having been purchased, along with three other phones and several hundred hours of minutes, with a credit card in the name of Augustus Gibbs. Augustus Gibbs happened to be listed as captain of the ship Sam was supposedly on and was reportedly headed for port of Brisbane, Australia. Sonny had felt obligated to keep his word to Jason and follow up on the lead. He'd called in a favor from a business associate overseas who was able to refer him to two men familiar with Brisbane. He'd sent them a recent photo of her and hired them to keep tabs on Sam without being spotted. They'd been waiting for her the minute she'd stepped off the freighter. She'd surprised them by taking off on a sailboat rather than by car and they'd had to scramble to follow, but fortunately everyone had a price and there had been a man with a speedboat willing to give chase.

Sonny's hired men ended up following her to a marina where she had walked to a nearby bar and proceeded to hustle a bunch of men out of their money. While one of his men kept an eye on Sam, the other had taken time to procure transportation. So, they were able to follow her again when Sam ended up taking off with one of the guys she'd hustled. He'd taken her back to his place where she'd spent the night. That was the last Sonny had heard and none of it sat very well.

He'd told his contacts he wanted a photograph of her and the man she was with. He knew Jason would never believe him without proof. About an hour ago, he'd been enjoying a night cap when his phone beeped alerting him to an incoming e-mail. It was a message with a picture attached and he'd had to knock back the rest of his scotch when he saw it. Shocked couldn't even begin to describe how he'd felt when he found out the guy Sam had obviously taken up with was none other than Jax! The message said they were on the move again and Sonny had messaged back to keep an eye out and call him in an hour for report. He had to get his mind around it and he needed to know just what the hell was going on.

Jasper Jacks had run out of Port Charles like a wounded puppy with his tail between his legs the day Carly gave him his ring back. Of course, Sonny couldn't have been happier to see Jax go. That man didn't deserve Carly. He could never appreciate her the way she needed, but he had felt bad for the way the man had stomped on Carly's heart. She'd tried to explain to Jax that he was the man she loved and wanted to be with as soon as she could. She'd explained the marriage was something she had to do for her children, but that bastard was too self-righteous to hear it. Carly had been devastated when he'd left and still was, he suspected, though she refused to discuss Jax with him. He had a feeling that was why she'd been pouring all her time and energy into the Metro Court though. It was her way of staying connected to Jax somehow, and avoiding him.

His phone rang, bringing him out of his thoughts.

"Corinthos." He answered.

"Sonny Corinthos?" The guy wanted to confirm.

"Yeah. What do you have for me?"

"Mr. Corinthos, this is Richards. Sir, we've followed them from the beach house to the marina where they boarded a yacht. They remained on board for a couple hours and have just pulled back in to the beach house." The man told him.

"Good. Did you get any more photos? How did they act around one another? Contentious? Friendly?"

"Definitely not contentious. Friendly, I'd say, very friendly. She kissed him on the docks." Richards informed.

Sonny cursed under his breath. "What are we talking here? Kiss on the cheek, lips? What?"

"Lips, sir, and by the way they were hugging one another before and after they left the ship I'd say if they weren't already sleeping together it's only a matter of time." He ventured.

"Son of a ..." Sonny rubbed his hand over his mouth in frustration. Fuck! This was going to tear Jason and Carly's hearts out.

"Did you want us to continue tailing them, sir?"

Sonny thought about it. If Sam was linked up with Jax, it would be easy enough to find her later and from the sound of things she wouldn't be going anywhere any time soon. "No. Just get me those photos, addresses and name and location of the boat they were on and I'll send final payment to the same account as the deposit once I get them."

"Will do. Nice doing business with you, Mr. Corinthos. If you should need anything else, feel free to call again." The man told Sonny.

"One more thing." Sonny interrupted before he could disconnect. "Anyone ever comes asking, you never saw this woman or man and, most importantly, you never heard of me. Understood?"

"Absolutely. Part of our service is our discretion. Secrets are safe with us, sir." Richards assured him and then ended their call.

Sonny sat back in his seat, set his phone down on the desk then stood again and began to pace. What the hell was he going to do now? On one hand, he could march down to the PCPD lockup and show Jason just what a lying con Sam McCall really was. He could show Carly how Jax had obviously moved on and wasn't worthy of her pining over him another minute. Sure it would hurt, but Jason and Carly would both be free to move on. They wouldn't have to live with the guilt they were drowning in now over two people that could care less about them.

On the other hand, he couldn't really predict how they might react to the news. He knew it would hurt them, but that didn't mean either Jason or Carly would be satisfied to just let it go at that. In fact, if Carly found out Sam was with Jax it would almost guarantee her going off to confront them. As for Jason, he'd probably want to confront them as well. Maybe even try to win Sam back. Jason was in total denial and hadn't listened to anything Sonny had said. He probably wouldn't believe the photos either until he'd gone to Australia himself and saw them together with his own eyes. Not to mention the pain it would cause him and Carly. All their thoughts would be consumed by that news when what they all really needed to be focused on was getting Jason out from under Alcazar's murder charge. No. Maybe it was best, for now at least, that Jason and Carly not know anything about any of it. Sam was gone for good, off scamming her latest mark and, as far as Sonny was concerned, it couldn't happen to a nicer guy.

Page 18 of 18 Created: 2011-09-05 Updated: 2016-05-27 Words: 8947 Characters: 47830