Dynasty Series 11: Full Circle

by ss9

Continuation of Dynasty Series 10: New Beginnings. Can Alexis pick up the pieces of her life once more? Has Blake made the right decision or will he be haunted by regret? Starring Joan Collins as Alexis Colby and John Forsythe as Blake Carrington

4. Episode 4: The Carolina

Series 11: Full Circle

Episode 4: The Carolina

Part 1:

Picking up the mink Alexis ran her fingers through the soft fur, smiling at the sensation before laying it aside on the bed. She wouldn't pack the fur she would carry it onto to the jet so she had something warm to wear when she arrived back in Denver, as despite the spring sunshine there was still a nip in the air. Satisfied that she had everything packed in the bedroom she picked up her purse and fur and after calling for the porter made her way back into the living room, sighing as she caught sight of a rather stubborn visitor.

"I thought you had left?"

Catching the less than subtle suggestion that he should do just that Dex shook his head stubbornly. "Oh no, not without trying to talk you out of this one last time Alexis…"

"Dex I have to go home eventually, even you said so." Alexis began before he could once more list all the reasons for her to stay. "Well I feel ready now so I'm going."

"You're not doing this because you feel ready, you're running away and we both know it." Dex retorted his dark eyes locked on her face and catching the slight wince of guilt. "Why don't you admit it Alexis, you're running scared and I admit it's all my fault but can't we talk about it?"

"I'm not running away and I am certainly not scared of you Dex, so as far as I'm concerned there is nothing to discuss." Alexis snapped her eyes flashing with barely repressed temper.

"Not of me." Dex corrected closing the distance between them, his voice dropping so low that Alexis had to strain her ears to hear it. "But because of what I asked you to do?"

Swallowing as she avoided his gaze Alexis ran her hands distractedly though the soft strands of her fur coat. "I told you I would think about it."

"You can say no." Dex added softly. "I won't think any less of you, and I don't want you to feel obliged just because of…" He trailed off unwilling to put it into words lest it sounded just the opposite.

Watching Dex closely from beneath her lashes Alexis resisted the urge to pull him into a hug, he just looked so lost and afraid, yet things had changed between them and it was becoming increasingly difficult to ignore the 'elephant in the room'. Everyday they spent together it became clearer to her that not only was Dex still in love with her but that all it would take was for her to beckon and they would be together once again.

It was both an attractive and terrifying prospect and one that Alexis knew she was far from ready for.

It would only be a rebound fling for her. A way to sooth her wounded pride, to help dull the ache of Blake's loss. Nothing could be easier or better for her and nothing could be worse for Dex, and as his friend she needed to stop this now before she could no longer find the strength to.

If her they were to get back together, if, it would have to be because it was the best thing for them both. Especially as a child was now involved; Alexis had sworn years before never to expose another child to the sort of broken home her own had to endure, so their relationship would have to last.

Yet if she was honest Alexis wasn't sure they could. How many times had they broken up in the past? Each time their reconciliation briefer than the last and Alexis wasn't sure she could take yet more heartache. Besides she needed him too much to lose him and if she broke his heart one more time she knew she would lose him for good this time.

Staying just friends would be safer.

Yet somehow she doubted Dex would accept that as an answer.

Picking her words carefully Alexis reached out and rested a hand on his arm, pitching her voice low but even. "I don't feel obliged, and I promise you I will think about it carefully but I need to do that thinking apart Dex."

Yet Dex wouldn't be Dex if he wasn't just as stubborn as an ox. She knew he knew what she was doing and why, that was why he was clinging on so desperately. He was the one afraid, afraid that she would return to Denver and he would lose her completely.

"But you'll be alone." He added his voice almost childlike in its tone. "I hate to think of you with no one to turn to, that's why I wanted you to wait until Jack is ready to be discharged…"

"I'll be on my own but I won't be alone, I'll be stopping at The Carlton until…Well until I get myself settled." Alexis corrected with barely a pause. "I'll have Fallon and Adam and Steven there to support me and besides Jack will be discharged soon and if you decide to settle permanently in Denver…"

"You know I am that is not open for discussion!" Dex snapped and Alexis stifled a smile at his vehemence. "It's just are you sure that's the real reason for leaving now, that's it's not because of…"

"Because of Blake's troubles." Alexis finished for him her smile slipping slightly. "It is only a coincidence." She added yet Dex looked far from convinced.

"I would hate to see you hurt all over again."

"Dex." Alexis muttered warningly. "I know you only want to protect me, but you are going to have to believe me when I say I am not going back to Denver for Blake. I probably won't even see him, but Colby Co is going to need me at the helm if we are to get though the mess unscathed. There will be a backlash against all oil companies, especially ones so closely linked with Denver Carrington."

"I know." Dex admitted grudgingly, finally resigned to the inevitable as Alexis was even more stubborn than he was. "I just wanted to be there for you."

"I know and I thank you for that, besides soon enough I'll have you home as well. It will only be for a few weeks Dex."

"One week tops." Dex amended leaning closer and nudging her playfully with his elbow and this time Alexis couldn't help but smile.

"See I'll barely have time to miss you."

"So you do think you'll miss me, that's something I suppose." Dex cajoled his dark eyes now warm in the face of her teasing smile; his relief palpable that they seemed to have been able to move past the strained awkward tension that had hung over their every conversation and interaction since he had blurted out his proposition at the hospital.

"You know I will, I mean who else would nag me to do laundry or threaten to cut my nails or drop me in a waterbutt if I refused?"

"Lady you deserved the dunking." Dex teased his smile wide and easy.

"Oh really Mr Dexter, well I'll have to see if I can't find of a way to repay your kind hospitality some time."

Laughing Dex shook his head relieved as Alexis slipped her hand easily into the crook of his elbow allowing him to escort her down to the lobby. "Alexis I am shaking in my cowboy boots!"

Smirking at his casual dismissal of her threat Alexis smile was pure cat with a canary. "You should be Mr Dexter…You should be!"

"Well I wouldn't want to be Uncle Blake this morning."

Sammy-Jo's comment whilst inane and obvious was regrettably accurate and Krystle felt her stomach turn as she caught sight of the damning headlines. Deep inside she wanted nothing more than to turn over the paper so she didn't have to look at it or head back to bed and pretend that she still hadn't heard the news and could go back to that feeling of blissful ignorance.

Yet she had read the stories of the Carolina, Blake's stricken tanker, and she couldn't just bury her head under the covers and pretend like a child.

"You're very quiet Auntie Krystle and you haven't touched your breakfast."

"I guess I'm just not very hungry." Krystle muttered her reply unable to draw her eyes from the paper for long. "I just wish I had something to do…Some way I could help."

"You could help me." Sammy-Jo piped up crunching with gusto on a slice of bacon. "I've got Jackson Hobbs coming over today to sign the contracts for purchasing Delta Ro and…"

"Are you really sure you are doing the right thing Sammy-Jo? This ranch well it's the only connection to your father you will ever have, and once it's gone you will never be able to get it back. You won't have a home in Denver anymore, are you really sure that's what you want?" Krystle questioned watching her niece closely disappointed when Sammy-Jo seemed to shrug her concerns aside with little sentimentality.

"It's just not me Auntie Krystle and I don't think my father would have wanted me to be miserable doing something just because he enjoyed it. So will you help me?"

Shaking her head Krystle's eyes were drawn back to the paper and the nagging sense that she should be doing something. "I'm sorry Sammy-Jo but you don't really need me and I think I can find a more pressing need for my talents elsewhere."

Blake Carrington had had better mornings.

But considering he had spent the night at Denver Carrington only catching a few hours sleep on his couch as he waited for the latest reports to come in from his survey team; so it hardly surprising that he felt like barely warmed over shit.

Visiting his private bathroom to throw a little water on his face Blake had barely recognised the unshaven, grey faced old man who stared back at him. Defeat was not a look that suited him.

The survey reports had done little to cheer him. They were leaking several thousand gallons an hour and the slick was spreading fast. Add to that the catastrophe was in a world-renowned natural habitat…

It all combined to make for one very very bad natural and public relations disaster and already the papers were on to it. The Denver Carrington phones had been ringing off the hook with practically every news agency in the world wanting to talk to the CEO of Denver Carrington. Blake's public relations team was currently stretched to breaking point and had had as little sleep as their boss.

Blake had talked to an irate Australian Prime Minister, a concerned US foreign official, some rather vocal environmental groups and his own harassed people and now all he wanted was to take the phone off the hook for a few hours and get his head around the situation.

So far there had only been one pleasant surprise the unexpected offer of assistance from Colby Co. Adam had talked to him only a few hours before letting his father know that Colby Co had a recovery crew currently making their way home from helping one of their tankers who had suffered engine trouble off of the coast of Singapore. They could be at the site of the Carolina in less than 48hrs if Blake needed the extra help.

Blake had been grateful but cautious and had asked Adam if this offer was likely to be rescinded when his mother found out about it only to be stunned when he learned it had been Alexis's suggestion.

However the time it took the Colby Co recovery crew and his own to arrive could be disastrous and Blake's head swam with visions of his stock plummeting, as his company's name was splashed and slandered from one side of the world to another. All asking the same damning questions that at present Blake had no answers for.

What was a Denver Carrington tanker doing so far off of a recognised shipping lane?

Was the captain simply trying to sneak a short cut or was there some reasonable explanation for all of this?

At the moment Blake didn't know the answers to those questions and the media frenzy stirred up by this and all his recent bad press meant the reporters were out for his blood…

The pressing of his buzzer drew Blake's attention back to the present and he sighed heavily mentally preparing himself for the next round of fire fighting.

"Yes Marsha?"

"Sorry to disturb you Mr Carrington but Mrs Carrington is here…She would like to talk to you?"

Stunned dumb but that news Blake had barely muttered, "Show her in Marsha" than the door was opening and there stood one of the last people he had expected to see.

"Krystle…What are you doing here?"

Taking a deep breath as if to gird her courage Krystle replied. "I want to help Blake, in whatever way I can; I can't stand by and see you suffer all alone. I know how much Denver Carrington means to you, to this family. So I thought maybe I could help out with the public relations…" She paused before adding with a small hint of a smile. "Once upon a time I used to know my way around the office…"

Unable to restrain his smile Blake did manage to resist the urge to cross the room and pull her into his arms. Instead he settled for a quiet but heartfelt "Thank you Krystle…Thank you very much, just have Marsha let them know you are on your way down."

Watching as she turned and left with a shy hesitant smile.

It wasn't much, barely a beginning but it was something, and that was all Blake needed.

Part 2:

The board were lucky that Adam didn't have access to a chainsaw or some other weapon at that very moment because he had never felt more like committing mass homicide in his life.

"We have already gone over this ten times…" Adam all but growled cutting the childish squabbling dead. "This is the tender that Colby Co's business analysts have put together, and yes I know it has changed slightly from the paper we presented last week but they received new intelligence…"

Adam paused catching a smug Frank's gaze and faltering slightly before recovering as if nothing had happened, "And they amended the figures accordingly. Now unless we approve this paper today we will fail to meet the deadline and all of this work will be for nothing."

That set the board grumbling once more or more to the point the vocal ring leader Henry Carter who seemed to be making it his personal mission to undermine Adam in everyway possible.

"Now see here Carrington we're not your lackeys, you need our approval not the other way around and it seems to me you are pulling a fast one. What new intelligence…Why can't we see it?"

Shuffling uncomfortably in his seat Adam muttered "It's confidential."

"Confidential!" Carter roared. "We're your supervisory board there are no papers we can't see so why don't you run down like a good little lackey and fetch them for us."

Flushing bright red with anger and embarrassment Adam could feel his control on his temper slipping. So he was more than a little surprised when the ever cool and collected Frank beat him to the punch.

"I think what is more interesting Mr Carter is why you seem so determined to hold up proceedings, what do you have to gain by Colby Co missing the deadline?" Frank asked pointedly, his grey eyes unflinchingly staring at Carter who seemed to squirm under the former detective's penetrating gaze.

"How dare…I have nothing to hide unlike Carrington here." Carter blustered, his ruddy face turning even pinker, a dangerous flush spreading down his neck. "And how dare you imply otherwise, unlike some at this table." He paused sneering in disgust. "I have a spotless reputation, and I refuse to listen to unfounded accusations from a pair of ex-cons."

"Why you…" Adam hissed only to be cut off by Frank once more.

"Well I have to beg to differ Mr Carter. I think you protest your innocence a little too much, as a former police officer I can smell a lie a mile away and you forgive the expression, you stink!"

Fist clenching as he fairly shook Henry Carter heaved his large frame to his feet and practically launched himself across the table at Dobson. Yet Frank despite his normal stillness was much faster on his feet and moved out of Carter's reach before he was in any real danger.

"I do seem to have struck a nerve don't I?" Frank taunted a small smile making it's way onto his face as he turned to Adam who stared at the old man dumbstruck. "Forgive me Adam, since I am new to this business world perhaps I have misunderstood the regulations but isn't it a requirement to declare if you have any vested interest in a topic before it is discussed?"

"It is." Adam replied dumbly unsure just where Frank was going with this.

"And would not the fact that Mr Carter's new brother-in-law is a senior partner in a construction company, one that Mr Carter just invested heavily in, and is coincidently also tendering for the Meadowland development project be considered such a conflict?"

Smiling broadly Adam couldn't keep the pleasure from his voice as he practically purred his reply. "It would indeed."

"Look I can explain…" Henry Carter began to bluster as his fellow board members drew away from him quickly as if could contaminate them as well. "I haven't even discussed the project with him…It's not like we see each other except socially!"

"A conflict is a conflict Carter." Adam taunted him. "And for an infraction like this I could have you removed from the Board." His smile growing as the board room door opened and their unexpected visitor stood in the doorway listening intently.

"You!" Carter sneered unaware of his new audience, his pretence at humility vanishing. "You're nothing but a wet behind the ears momma's boy, you don't have the power to do anything!"

"No but I do Mr Carter!" Alexis's clear clipped voice rang through the room and at least half her board shivered in fear. "You're fired and if I hear even a whisper about you leaking confidential information I swear I will sue you until all you have left is that rather unattractive and ill-fitting suit."

"Mrs Colby…"

"Get out Mr Carter." Alexis growled her emerald eyes flashing and warning hell and retribution if he crossed her further earning her an appraising and approving stare from Frank Dobson.

Sauntering down to the head of the table to take the big chair that Adam more than gratefully relinquished Alexis sank down into the cushioned leather seat; her eyes scanning each one of her board members in turn until they sank chastised against the backs of their chairs.

"Now then." She added pleasantly glancing down at the papers Adam placed before her. "Now that the theatrics are over, shall we get on with business?"

"He's doing well." The nurse insisted as she changed Jack's dressing and removed the drip that had contained the steroids for developing the baby's lungs. "He should be able to go home soon."

Smiling at her enthusiasm Dex nodded reaching out and taking his son's hand in his own. "I can't wait."

"I suppose your wife will have her hands full getting the nursery ready for him, I haven't seen her today?"

"Oh no." Dex spluttered as he realised the conclusion the nurse had jumped to. "Alexis isn't…I mean she was…It's complicated." He settled on and the confused nurse covered the awkward silence by smiling.

"When is love anything but?"

That was true enough and Dex pondered her statement as the door shut behind her leaving him alone with his son. Picking up the baby Dex stared down at him unable to push aside the nurse's mistake as easily as he wished. Yet as his son continued to stare up at him with dark blue eyes that already hinted at the darker colour they would one day become, he found himself unable to discount the idea.

Things would be a hell of a lot easier if Alexis said yes.

Not just for him but for Jack. They could be a proper family, and Jack could help heal the lingering hurt that being separated from her own children during much of their childhood had wrought.

And he was doing this mainly for Jack's benefit after all, it had nothing to do with the way his own heart still raced whenever Alexis touched him, how it yearned for her when they were apart. Or the fact that even if he moved on and found somebody else he could never love them the way he loved her.

"I promise things will be great Jack, we just need to give her time to get used to the idea…And you'll have to help win her over…Just make her fall in love with you…"

As if it was that easy.

Dex Dexter had spent the last five almost six years of his life trying to get Alexis Colby to really fall in love with him; not just fond but head of heels can't live without him love. So it was hardly fair to place such a burden on a baby.

Dex was so lost in his thoughts that he didn't hear the door open and it wasn't until his skin began to prickle slightly that he realised he was being watched. Turning round sharply Dex scowled as he caught sight of his visitor.

"What are you doing here? Give me one good reason why I shouldn't take myself out a damn restraining order!"

Flinching as if he had struck her Monica stared down at the floor. "I came to apologise…"

"Well I don't care to hear it." Dex spat yet his resolve abated slightly as Monica sniffed back tears and if there was one ting Dex couldn't handle it was crying women. "Alright fine, I'll hear you out."

"Thank you." Monica muttered softly discretely dabbing at her eyes before she lifted her head to meet his gaze, "I owe you an apology Dex."

"You're damn right you do."

"I know and I am really sorry, I can't justify why I tried to do…I just felt like…like I had to try to keep him, for mother's sake and…" Monica trailed off guiltily. "I suppose if I am being truly honest, I thought it might be my chance to make up for my past choices."

Surprised by her blunt honesty Dex had no choice but accept her apology. "I guess I can understand that, so does that mean you aren't going to try and challenge the Judge's decision?"

"No I won't appeal." Monica replied a small smile tugging at her lips as Dex sighed in relief. "But I was hoping…"

"Hoping?" Dex asked when she trailed off without finishing her sentence.

"I know I don't have any right to ask this, especially after what I put you through but I still want to be involved in his life, he's my little brother Dex." Monica replied softly lifting her large eyes to stare pleadingly into Dex's own until he grew uncomfortable.

And more to ease that than anything else Dex blurted out. "I suppose that would be ok."

"Really?"

Monica's open and honest delight sealed the deal as Dex couldn't back out now; always condemned to playing the good guy he realised he had just condemned himself to a lifetime of interference. "Yeah."

"Oh thank you thank you!" Monica all but bounded forward and if it hadn't been for Jack Dex was certain she would have pulled him into a hug. Instead she bent over the baby, stroking his cheek.

"Did you hear that baby brother; you're not getting rid of me that easily!"

Fighting a grimace Dex couldn't help but wonder if he had just made a monumental mistake.

Rubbing his hands together nervously Blake began to fiddle with his tie as he hovered outside the office unsure whether he should just stride right in like he owned the place, which he did, or continue to hover in the hopes of engineering an accidental encounter.

In the end it was a mixture of both.

Blake had just made up his mind to enter the Public Relations office when the door opened and he literally walked into the lady who had been so much on his mind.

"Oh I'm sorry Krystle."

"Blake." Krystle greeted him with a polite nod yet eyed the elevator longingly; her day had been one long stressful exercise after another.

If dealing with the enquiries about the tanker had been bad enough that was nothing to the questions she had to fend off when the journalists realised they were talking to none other than Krystle Carrington herself.

It didn't help that she also got a distinctly unfriendly vibe from the rest of the team. They eyed her suspiciously, grateful to push off some of the calls but wary all the same and the low level hostility had grated on her nerves until she was ready to call it a day.

"Are you leaving?"

Blake's question caught her by surprise and Krystle blushed as she stuttered her reply. "Yes I promised Sammy-Jo I would help her organise putting her effects into storage. She's selling Delta Ro and the new owner is anxious to move in as quickly as possible."

"Oh I see." Blake muttered benignly when inwardly he was smirking, Sammy-Jo returning to New York would leave Krystle without a place to stay and he doubted it would take to much persuasion to convince to come home rather live in a hotel. "Well then I won't keep you it's just…Well I need to ask a favour."

Frowning slightly in suspicion Krystle focused in on the slightly shifty way Blake asked. "What sort of favour?"

Swallowing nervously as he caught sight of Krystle's less than enthused expression Blake girded his courage. "I was hoping that you would agree to be my escort to the award gala tomorrow?"

"Blake…."

Cutting of Krystle's objection Blake pushed ahead with his case, not deterred by her caution.

"I don't ask to try and put pressure on it's just the spotlight will be on Denver Carrington now more than ever and I want to try and avoid any more bad press. As a PR expert I know I can trust you to know what to say when people put you on the spot…"

Pausing Blake could see her wavering and so he used his trump card the one she had never been able to counter.

"Please Krystle I really need your help."

Sighing as Blake appealed directly to one thing she had never been able to deny him Krystle nodded. "Alright Blake I'll go to the gala with you…I just have a bad feeling about this, like something is bound to go wrong."

Resisting the urge to smile too broadly or punch the air in victory Blake settled for patting her arm it what was meant to be a reassuring yet non-pressuring manner. "It will all be alright Krystle, I promise."

Part 3:

The ballroom at The Carlton was a veritable sea of coolly glittering crystal and black and white bedecked dignitaries, the monochrome theme a roaring success. Smiling as yet more people arrived and gasped at the opulent surroundings Fallon kept a close eye on her waiting staff, making sure there was a constant flow of champagne.

Dressed in a sinfully skin-tight black satin strapless gown with a provocative bustle and fishtail train, her dark curls piled her on her head, the only flash of colour her crimson lipstick; Fallon had never before resembled her mother so closely and it was a compliment that made her smile each time she heard it.

Her eyes were on the door when her father's party arrived. As usual Blake looked handsome in his tuxedo and unsurprisingly Krystle came bedecked in white, a beaded dress that flowed down her tall figure and made her look like an elegant figurine. Yet it was hardly original.

Taking a flute of champagne for herself Fallon wandered across feeling it was at least her duty to bid them hello. At the very least she could compliment her husband on the cut of his new tux.

Steven was the first to spot her, a bright smile pulling at his lips as he caught sight of his big sister. "Hey Fallon."

"Hey baby brother, don't you scrub up nice?"

"Thanks." Steven answered softly and it didn't take a genius to pick up on his discomfort. "You've done a hell of a job here, I'm proud of you."

Laughing aside his compliment Fallon poked him in the chest. "Don't praise me yet, the evening has only just begun and you'll jinx the whole thing."

"Good evening Fallon." Her father's deep voice immediately putting a dampener on Fallon's mood. "It seems to be quite the party."

"Father…Krystle." Fallon greeted the pair politely but coolly, she had thought what with Krystle finding out the truth and moving out of the mansion that her father might come to his senses. That coming here tonight when hopefully her mother would also finally agree to attend…

Perhaps it had been a foolish hope.

A daughter's last shot at trying to fix things between her parents.

Yet now that Blake had arrived with Krystle on his arm that hope finally flickered and died and Fallon's only concern now was for her mother. She needed to warn her, to prepare her.

After all it would hardly be fair that the first time Alexis would see Blake after their breakup and her breakdown would be in front of an audience whilst Krystle hung adoringly off of Blake's arm.

"I hope you have a good evening but I really do need to circulate…I'll have someone come and show you to your table."

"Fallon…" Jeff began pleadingly his hope that he might have the chance to squeeze one or two dances with his wife fading fast in the face of her pinched expression.

"Later Jeff I promise." Fallon muttered turning on her heel and heading in the direction of the Colby Co table where her older brother sat with Dana and a few favoured board members, yet there were two seats noticeably empty.

"Fallon congrat…" Adam began only to be cut off by his sister.

"Is mummy coming?"

Scowling at her bluntness Adam lowered his voice and stood from his seat. "Nice to see you too little sister…I honestly don't know myself…She kept changing her mind."

"Do you think I should go upstairs and see her, has she even checked in yet?" Fallon asked surprised when Adam scoffed.

"You can try but I am not sure she is there…She got a last minute call before we left the office, something important she needed to tie up."

"Damn it." Fallon hissed. "Blake's here."

"Well that we were expecting, Denver Carrington was nominated for the innovation award, Mother already knows this." Adam retorted sarcastically.

"He brought Krystle." Fallon snapped back unable to resist reacting to her big brother's mocking tone, her irritation growing as Adam continued to stare superiorly at her. "I just wanted to warn her but hey if you don't seem to care…"

"Don't pull that crap with me Fallon. I care. I just don't know what good worrying about it will do."

"Fine then, you sit here and sip your champagne, enjoy the praise of your peers whilst I try and protect OUR mother." Fallon hissed resisting the urge to complete her tantrum by stamping her foot and sticking her tongue out at Adam, there was just something about her big brother that brought out the worst in her.

"And the award for leading innovation in the energy industry goes to…."

The room was so silent you could have heard a pin drop and Blake held his breath, muttering silently over and over again come on. He needed to win this award, needed the positive publicity like a fish needed water. As if sensing his internal conflict Krystle reached over and squeezed his hand and Blake shot her a grateful smile, well nearer grimace but it was the best he could manage at the moment.

"Norsk Hydro for their innovations in hydro-electronic dam production."

Forcing an air of polite indifference on to his face Blake joined the rest of the room in clapping the winners yet inside his heart was sinking. He had been counting on that award; most of the experts he had consulted had slyly commented Denver Carrington had it in the bag, so why hadn't they won?

Tuning out most of the winning speech, Blake struggled to understand the CEO's thick Norwegian accent anyway; Blake reached for his champagne and took a deep sip, yet even the expensive bubbly tasted like bitter ash on his tongue. He needed a plan B, but he was damned if he could think of one.

Hearing the audience clap once more Blake realised he had missed another award and he glanced at his program his eyes scanning down the list as he realised just what award was coming next. Energy Entrepreneur of the Year, in essence the award for the leading CEO of an energy company.

Underneath which there was a list of five names, one of which was more than a little familiar.

Lifting his head Blake scanned the room for a familiar dark head, yet it took more than two sweeps of the room for Blake to locate the Colby Co table. Adam was there but there was no sign of Alexis and for a moment Blake felt his stomach churn with guilt.

She should be here; this was an important moment for her and her company. Just to be nominated was an honour, recognition of all her achievements and Blake could only think of one reason why she wasn't.

Him.

Alexis was missing out on one of the most important nights for Colby Co because she couldn't bear to be in the same room as him, even when surrounded by hundreds of other people.

"And the nominations for Leading Entrepreneur of an energy company are…"

Sighing Blake felt his stomach churn once more, as the list of nominees were read out, heads in the audience craning to stare at each of the candidates in turn. When Alexis Colby's name was read out there was a low murmur of conversation as clearly people noted the lady's absence and even the presenter began to squirm nervously as though that certainly hadn't be part of the plan.

"And the winner is…Alexis Colby."

The startled gasp went up from the Colby Co table and the audience began to applaud whilst looking at their neighbours in amusement wondering just what would happen now when the star of the evening was missing in action.

Finally an awkward looking Adam got to his feet and stalked like the Carrington he was to the stage, shaking hands with the presenter he took the award and cleared his throat.

"I would just like to on behalf of Colby Co thank you all. This award marks the culmination of an unprecedented period of growth under the innovative leadership of one remarkable woman, Alexis Colby…."

Adam paused glancing out at the expectant faces, his eyes catching a hint of movement and flash of colour that stood out in all the monochrome surroundings, the reason for which caused a smirk to play across his handsome face.

"Alexis Colby marks a new generation of CEO's ones not hampered by traditional thinking and under her guidance Colby Co has flourished. Although if you want to know the secret of her success or her impeccable sense of timing I think you had better ask her yourself."

As one the audience turned towards the entrance a gasp going up from the crowd as in stalked the lady in question resplendent in canary yellow; the elegant tulle layers of skirt floating down and fanning out behind her from the one shouldered Grecian style fitted bodice that clung to her curves and set off her fabulous LA tan. In the monochrome surroundings she looked like a veritable ray of sunshine, a breath of fresh air.

Breezing quickly through the crowd Alexis beamed as table after table of people got to their feet and applauded, women gossiping behind their hands, half commenting bitchily on Alexis's nerve coming in a coloured dress, the rest admired her guts and they all swooned a little at the gorgeous man on her arm especially when he grinned flashing those killer dimples.

Taking the stairs up to the stage Alexis beamed as Adam stepped forward to present her with the cut glass award, leaning to press a kiss to her cheek. "Cutting it a little fine weren't we mother? I swear Fallon was about to send out a search party."

"You know me Darling; I do love to make an entrance!"

Shaking his head Adam stepped back watching proudly as his mother stepped up to the podium posing for the photographers before she began to speak.

"Well thank you for that warm welcome…Sorry I cut it a little fine but I got caught on the phone with our Far East office and well business comes first!" Alexis jested and the crowd tittered at her little joke.

"I just want to take this opportunity to thank my peers for selecting me as this years winner and I accept this award not just for Colby Co and my wonderful team there but for all the women CEO's trying to make their way in what is not…well not yet…a women's business." Alexis added flashing her legendry smile.

"I would also like to take this moment to thank the most important influences in my life. For my late husband Cecil Colby whose faith in me and my abilities never faltered even when I doubted it myself. And to my current rocks, my wonderful children, who everyday remind me just how privileged I am to be their mother. I thank you."

Bowing slightly as the applause started up once again Alexis slipped her hand into the crook of Adam's arm allowing him to escort her back towards the Colby Co table yet they had to stop every few moments as another person insisted on congratulating her in person.

Leaning in Adam whispered in her ear. "Blake's here Mother and he brought Krystle. I just thought you should know."

Smiling as yet another person reached out to shake her hand; to the untrained eye Alexis seemed unaffected by the news yet Adam could see the sudden forced set to her smile. "Of course he did Adam…I never expected anything else. You really don't need to worry about me, I'll be fine."

Nodding Adam accepted her words, yet in reality he was far from convinced.

"Blake would you care to dance?"

Startled by the question Blake forced a smile on to his face. Dinner was finally over, every damn mind-numbing course were he had been cursed seemingly by some sort of a vengeful god to have a prime view of Alexis and her latest boy toy. Not that there had been anything inappropriate, and Blake had tried his best to ignore it, not to look in her direction.

Yet it seemed his eyes were drawn to the flash of yellow and her every movement caused them to drift in her direction. Every shift as the handsome stranger muttered comments that made both Alexis and her table laugh caught his attention and Blake grasped his cutlery so hard he had actually caused his knife handle to bend.

Now the dinner things were being cleared away and people were beginning to circulate, some even drifting over to the dance floor as the band began to play.

"Blake?" Krystle called his name her voice concerned.

"Yes that sounds like an excellent idea." Blake muttered to cover his hesitation and smiling he took Krystle's elbow and escorted her to the dance floor. However there was one flaw to this idea, he was now much closer to Alexis's table and was able to watch first hand the tender reunion between mother and children.

Fallon drifted over the moment her staff began to clear, tearfully pulling her mother into a hug neither caring if it creased their couture. Steven followed a moment later and he joined the growing group hug holding both Fallon and Alexis close.

He watched as Alexis reached up and smoothed Steven's hair, as she brushed the tears from Fallon's cheeks and wrapped a proud arm about Adam's shoulders. In that moment Blake felt a flash of jealousy, it had always been the other way around before. The children had flocked to him for love and support; Alexis had been the one chasing them, trying to worm her way back into their lives whilst Blake had been at the centre, the proud patriarch of his own dynasty.

It just made him boiling mad.

When he had made his decision he had accepted the pain that losing Alexis would bring but he had never figured in the cost of losing his children's respect and admiration. Oh he knew he still had their love as deep down he was still their father but this unexpected loss cut deep and in that moment he hated and envied Alexis just as much as he still loved her.

"Blake please…You're hurting me!" Krystle's whimpered plea jolted Blake out of his daze and he was aghast to realise in his anger he had been crushing her hand.

"I…I'm sorry Krystle…I don't know what's come over me…"

"Don't you?" Krystle asked pointedly, reminding him in the moment she was no fool. "I think we both know what or should I say who?"

"Krystle this is not the time and if you'll excuse me I find I really am not in the mood to dance after all." Blake snapped clearly not in the mood to be cross-examined, not by her, not about this.

Releasing her hand he turned and strode off back to the Denver Carrington table clearly expecting her to follow behind him like an obedient puppy. Clenching her fists Krystle tried to blink back tears of anger and frustration, of humiliation of being abandoned so casually by the man who claimed to still love her.

"Well hello there pretty lady we meet again."

Turning at the sudden voice Krystle was surprised to come face to face with the man from the stables and she stared at him blankly as he smiled his devilish smile offering her his hand.

"So Mrs Carrington do you dance?"

Glancing back over her shoulder to the Denver Carrington table where Blake seemed intent on consoling himself with a large scotch Krystle weighed her options carefully. Then resting her hand in his, she told herself it was only one dance, a means to save face and sooth her wounded ego by dancing with arguable one of the most handsome men in the room.

"I have been known to Mr Hobbs."

After all if jealousy worked for so well for Alexis…

Part 4:

It was still early in LA when Dex finished his shower, grabbing a towel he wrapped it round his hips, then picking up another he dried off most the water from his hair. He wanted to be at the hospital in time to give Jack his morning bottle and then talk to his doctors about just when his son could be discharged.

The sooner the better in Dex's opinion, even though he had still to find an appropriate apartment or hire a nanny, every day Dex hung about LA he swore he could feel Alexis drifting further away from him.

Walking into the lounge of his hotel suite his attention was drawn to the television that was playing silently in the corner the morning news program moving from coverage of Washington to the celebrity gossip. Grabbing an apple Dex gave the Hollywood gossip scant attention it wasn't until a familiar face appeared on the screen as the business news began that he almost choked on his fruit. Reaching for the remote Dex turned up the sound.

"…is Colby was the undoubted star of the evening turning up just in time to scoop the award for Energy Entrepreneur of the year and raising more than a few eyebrows in a fabulous Dior dress. Yet speculation was hottest surrounding the secretive CEO's sudden return to Denver after several weeks' absence.

Having recently broken with the Oil Baron Blake Carrington, Alexis Colby was pictured only days ago enjoying the company of another one of her ex-husband's, the leading Wyoming businessman Mr Fansworth Dexter of Dexter International. And the gossip columnists had been predicting a possible rekindling of the Colby Dexter romance. Yet this evening Mrs Colby was escorted by a new mystery man…"

Swallowing down the sick feeling that bubbled up from his stomach Dex watched footage of Alexis receiving her award and arriving at the gala with an altogether too handsome stranger. Jarring back to reality only when the news returned to the studio and the reporter commented with a sly smile.

"Perhaps this new beau was the real cause of Alexis Colby absence from Denver?"

Cursing as he switched off the set Dex resisted the urge to toss the remote at the television.

Damn her.

Here he was waiting for an answer and she was already moving on. Moving on with somebody else, somebody who wasn't him. Yet as he sat and stared at the blank screen Dex was forced to admit he had no real right to be jealous. Had no claim on Alexis at all apart from…

He had thought they were making progress and that at least because of their friendship Alexis would have let him down gently in person rather than letting him find out about a new man by watching it on the news.

Reaching for the phone Dex punched in her private number at The Carlton his annoyance growing as the phone rang and rang with no answer. As he waited Dex wondered where she could be this early in the morning…The idea that she was curled up beside Mr Tall Dark and Handsome ignoring his calls or that she had stopped over in his hotel room instead dominated his thoughts.

Then it hit him the time difference…If you added the hour difference then it was already 8.30 in Denver and knowing the amount of work Alexis had to get through it wouldn't have surprised him if she was already at the office. Setting down the phone Dex picked it up again and this time calmer typed in the number for Colby Co.

"Alexis Colby's office." He asked gruffly to the cheerful receptionist grimacing at the annoying music as he was transferred.

"Alexis Colby's office this is Mark speaking how may I direct your call?"

"I want to speak with Mrs Colby its Dex Dexter calling." Dex replied not in the mood for pleasantries with Alexis's secretary of the week.

"I'm sorry Mr Dexter but Mrs Colby is in a meeting, I can take a message or if you prefer to phone back later…"

"No message." Dex grumbled his mood only improved slightly by the knowledge Alexis was already at work, knowing her habits well enough he knew that had it been a 'hot night' there was no way she would have been up already.

It was probably nothing, he was probably over reacting. She had needed an escort and found one who would not only get the gossips tongue's wagging but who would needle Blake. Yet the idea of a handsome man, a man he had never met appearing out of nowhere who was suddenly hanging off of Alexis's arm; that sent alarm bells ringing.

Alarm bells that took the form of Sean Rowan nee Anders.

Alexis had been taken in by a handsome face once before, had been duped by a man who whispered poisoned honey into her ear and had played on her feelings of loneliness. That slip of judgement had almost cost her not only her company but her life as well.

Well that was not going to happen this time. This time Dex would be there to protect Alexis from herself in necessary and certainly from Mr Tall, dark and handsome. He hadn't come this far to lose her now.

-

Blake was trying his best to concentrate. He was trying so hard his face was creased with exertion and his staff members shifted nervously wondering just who had put their normally amiable boss into such a foul temper.

"This is just not good enough…We need to know why the tanker was so far off course." Blake spat his dark eyes drilling down on the analyst who had just been talking. "There had to be some sort of malfunction that can explain why they were 12 miles out of a recognised shipping lane?"

"But…But we don't have that information yet Mr Carrington."

"Why the hell not?" Blake growled unable to believe the incompetents he was surrounded by. "The survey team have had days."

"Yes but they have been concentrating on assessing the damage to The Carolina and the surrounding area and working with the salvage team to try and stop the spillage they haven't had time…When the Colby Co team arrive…"

"I don't want to hear can't or haven't or don't!" Blake spat back. "I want to hear Yes Sir; I'll get them right on that Sir! It's fine for you but I'm the one whose head is on the line, everyday the press are demanding answers and when we don't have any they make up the headlines."

He paused holding up the local papers one by one, each had less than flattering copy about Denver Carrington somewhere on the front page. "We need answers and we need them soon."

"Yes sir."

"If that is all you have for me I suggest you get back to work!" Blake growled watching as one by one his chastised team of executives filed out with their tails between their legs.

Sighing Blake rubbed his aching forehead and closed his eyes, his fingers going of their own volition to scrunch up the offending newspapers. He hadn't slept well a combination of stress and exhaustion keeping him awake along with…

He should have prepared himself for seeing Alexis again. After all she did live in Denver, she managed a company here but it seemed since she had left he had been living half in his own fantasy world; because he hadn't been confronted with her daily he had been able to carry on pretending that he wouldn't have to…face her…face his own feelings…watch her with other men.

The memory of the previous night, of Alexis hanging happily on another man's arm, of knowing not once all night did she glance in his direction; of knowing that only because he had spent most of his night watching and waiting for her to do so.

He could have walked over and spoken to her, yet part of him had been afraid to. Afraid that when their eyes locked he would see once again the pain he had caused her; that he would hear the scorn in her voice; that Alexis would make a public scene, humiliate him in front of his peers. So he didn't risk it. Instead he sat at his table, nursing a scotch most of the evening.

Finally opening his eyes Blake considered lobbing the crushed newspapers balls in the nearest trashcan yet reaching out his hand paused, smoothing one out so he could look at it properly. It seemed fate was enjoying taunting him as there smiling up at him from the print was a victorious Alexis, toting her award.

She looked stunning and happy…Happy without him, whilst he was miserable…

"Blake?"

Startled from his lonely reflection Blake started guilty trying to cover Alexis's picture with his hand. "Krystle what can…"

"John needs your authorisation on this press release before it can be distributed, and no one else is brave or foolish enough to brave disturbing the brooding lion in his lair!" Krystle replied slapping the paperwork down on the desktop, surprised when Blake didn't immediately reach for the folder. "He needs it soon Blake."

Nodding Blake swallowed his throat suddenly dry. "I'll look at it and bring it down when I'm done."

"Fine." Krystle retorted sharply clearly annoyed at being treated like a glorified post boy.

"Krystle please…" Blake called out as she turned to leave. "We need to talk…I need to explain."

"I have work to do Blake and unless this is work related…"

Cutting her off Blake launched into his apology. "I just want…no I need to say how sorry I am about last night. I think the stress of the past few days just got on top of me and…"

"Alexis?" Krystle cut in seeing through his excuses for what they were.

"I'll admit I was surprised to see her there. I thought I was ready but clearly I wasn't and I am sorry if I took that out on you." Blake answered honestly watching as the anger in Krystle's eyes abated slightly if not the lingering hurt.

"Go on."

"We can't let these mistakes destroy us Krystle." Blake added softly his deep voice cracking under the strain. "I promise to try to put you first from now on…but I need to put my relationship with Alexis behind me properly, the ways things ended." He broke off hanging his head in shame.

"I am not proud of how I acted, I was selfish and instead of protecting you, I hurt you." The 'I hurt you both' added mentally. "And the guilt is eating me up…I need to see her to at least apologise. I doubt she will accept it but until I try I can't move forward."

"Do you really want to move forward Blake?" Krystle asked softly the tremor of fear in her voice. "I wish I could believe that you do, I want that more that anything but I'm not so foolish as to delude myself."

"Krystle." Blake tried one last time reaching out to catch her hand so she couldn't leave. "I want to make this work."

For a moment Krystle seemed to waver, her hopes warring against her fears then suddenly her face went blank her eyes sudden shards of ice.

"You always did talk a good sales pitch Blake but it seems that this time your actions are giving your true feelings away." She added nodding towards the uncovered picture; the beautiful smiling face of Alexis Colby seemed to stare mockingly up at her.

"Krystle."

"No Blake!" Krystle snapped holding up her hands to ward him off. "No more games, if you want to make this work between us then this has to stop. Go to Alexis apologise, get it off your chest if you have to. But until you can prove to me that you aren't still in love with her then we can't have a future together."

Then storming out of the office she left a stunned Blake to wonder how the hell he was going to prove that?

-

"So I think that is everything covered." Alexis muttered glancing at her watch trying to work out if she had time to grab a bite to eat before her next appointment, as she was anxious to leave work early today. Barely looking up when her staff began to filter out of the boardroom.

"Adam…"

"Yes Mother?"

"I want you to move off of the emergency relief project, I need your full attention on developing the Korean leases I am handing the day to day operations of that project over to you."

"Are you sure Mother?" Adam asked. "That's the highest profile project we have…"

"Adam, don't question me just do as I ask, I want your best work on this."

"Don't worry Mother I'm on it." Adam insisted shooting his mother a warm smile. Pausing before he left the room to pull her into a brief hug. "I can't say how wonderful it is to have you back."

"It's wonderful to be back Darling." Alexis replied hugging him back smiling as he hurried off to put her directives into action.

Shuffle the papers she needed for the next team meeting, this time with the PR team, Alexis turned back when she felt eyes on her. "The meeting is over Mr Dobson there is no need to hang around…"

Standing from his seat at the back of the room Frank skirted the table slowly his grey eyes taking in her slender form. "I am just trying to learn all I can, so I can be of some use. I don't know if Adam told you but I have already been of assistance with…"

"I appreciate that you want to learn more about Colby Co but I have executives to handle the actual work…Now if you'll excuse me…" Alexis began when the phone began to buzz.

Sighing as she slapped the paperwork down on the sleek table Alexis pressed the speaker button snapping. "Yes?"

"I have Blake Carrington holding on line 1 Mrs Colby." Her secretary's bright voice echoed through the speaker.

Blanching Alexis tried to keep her hand from shaking, clenching her fingers round the edge of the table and she covered her nerves with anger. "I told you that I was in meetings all day and to hold my calls."

Coughing nervously as if it had finally dawned on him that his boss might not be pleased to be interrupted Alexis's secretary paused before answering. "Urghh but he's been ringing all morning he wants to talk about Colby Co's recovery crew working on The Carolina…He's getting really mad every time he rings and I tell him you're busy."

"Frankly that is hardly my problem." Alexis hissed back. "Now tell Mr Carrington I am in a meeting and am unavailable and if that is beyond your somewhat limited capabilities then I suggest you vacate your desk before I order someone who is capable to do it for you!" She added cutting her secretary off breathing heavily as if she had just run a marathon Alexis allowed her eyes to drift shut.

She had thought she was ready.

Last night at the Gala she had been prepared. Had expected Blake to cross her path then when he hadn't it had thrown her. She had expected it then, when she was wearing her armour and had a rather handsome human shield but alone in her boardroom her defences were down and the idea of talking to Blake on the phone terrified her.

Not that she would ever publicly admit to that.

"That Carrington is one persistent man." Frank Dobson's voice echoed around the boardroom and Alexis started as she realised he had heard all of her conversation, and had witnessed her moment of weakness.

"I thought I told you to leave…" Alexis stuttered surprised when instead of smirking or mocking her Frank actually looked concerned.

"Perhaps he's calling to apologise…Even Carrington must realise he was an idiot by now."

Snorting Alexis shook her head. "Even if he is I have no desire to hear it."

Surprised by her frank reply Frank leant against the edge of the long board table. "You know Carrington better than anyone Alexis do you really think he is going to accept you ignoring him? He's probably going to give up on phoning and simply turn up here."

"You're right…" Alexis sighed running a hand across her forehead that was the last thing she wanted. "Blake is nothing if not stubborn. If he wants to discuss Colby Co's involvement in the Carolina's recovery then he will keep on badgering me until he gets what he wants."

"So give him what he wants but on your terms." Frank replied cryptically causing Alexis to lift her head and raise an eyebrow. "Give him exactly what he is asking for Alexis and no more…He wants to discuss the Carolina, does that have to be with you?"

Smirking as she tapped the tabletop Alexis weighed his suggestion carefully. "Who exactly did you have in mind, Blake will refuse to deal with a lackey and Adam will be too busy with the Korean project."

"Oh I have the perfect candidate in mind." Frank replied his smirk growing into a full-blown smile. "Someone in a senior position but that will also drive Carrington mad."

Laughing as she caught on. Oh it was too perfect. It would meet Blake's demand and at the same time drive him crazy. "You!"

"Well if you think I can be trusted and you wouldn't rather have one of your executives handle it?" Frank teased.

"Oh no I think you will be perfect to liase with Denver Carrington on this." Alexis replied smiling evilly. "If you pull this off I will owe you lunch at the St Dennis."

"Make it dinner and we have a deal…Anything to help out my beautiful CEO." Frank added sharing her glee and for a moment their eyes locked and they shared a glance of mutual understanding.

"Blake will blow his top." Alexis added soberly.

"Do you really care?" Frank asked watching her carefully for an answer, his grey eyes locked on her face.

Sighing as she considered his question Alexis paused before answering roughly. "Not anymore."

-

Part 5:

"Alexis Colby please." Blake asked for what felt like the fiftieth time that day each time his patience growing shorter.

"I'm sorry Mr Carrington…" Alexis's secretary replied, by now able to recognise Blake just from his opening request.

"But she's unavailable, she's in a meeting." Blake finished for him, unable to contain the sarcasm that spilled into his tone. "But she is still there?"

"Yes sir…I wouldn't lie about that." The secretary stuttered his poor nerves already in shreds from being caught in between Blake's rock and Alexis's hard place, as he mentally composed his letter of resignation.

"Good that's something at least." Blake muttered before slamming the phone down. Then leaning forward he captured his driver's attention. "There will be a little detour Eric, don't take me straight home we'll swing by Colby Co first."

Not waiting to hear his driver's acknowledgement Blake sank back into the soft leather seat in the back of his limousine a hard smile now playing about his lips. If Alexis thought she could play games with him, have her secretary lead him a merry dance then she had forgotten who she was dealing with, Blake Carrington was a games master and it was time he changed the rules.

Kicking off her heels Alexis sank into the supporting embrace of her executive chair, in the safety and privacy of her own office she allowed the mask she had been wearing all day to drop.

She was exhausted.

Coming back to Colby Co whilst a wonderful distraction in some ways was also a painful reminder in others. Everything about the oil business reminded her of Blake. Perhaps that was the real reason behind her sudden desire to delegate, true it was time that Adam took on more responsibility it would be good for him, prepare him for the day when he took over Colby Co.

Yet that had not been the real motivation behind giving him the South Korean field development. Dealing with that project meant working with Blake, day in day out, and that would hurt too much. That deal was supposed to be the first of many joint projects, as they aligned their companies in the same way they were merging their personal lives. A partnership meant to last for decades…

A dream that now lay in tatters about her feet.

Not that Alexis deluded herself that she had convinced Adam, or any of her team otherwise. Yet when it came down to it Alexis found that she didn't really care what they thought anymore, so what if they considered her avoiding Blake a sign of weakness? Dealing with their in-fighting and manoeuvring was still easier than having to watch first hand Blake move on with his life…

Move on without her.

Hearing the buzz of her intercom Alexis hissed her displeasure, a quick glance at her clock confirmed it was after clocking off so who could want her now. "Yes Mark?"

"Ummm Mrs Colby sorry to interrupt." Her secretary mumbled clearly debating if this had been a wise career move. "I just…Mr Carrington called again and…"

"And what?" Alexis snapped.

"I told him you were busy just like you said." Her secretary muttered. "It's just he asked…He checked to make sure you were still here and well I maybe wrong but I kind of got the impression he was on the way over here." Mark added crossing his fingers and scrunching his eyes as he waited for Alexis to explode.

When the explosion he was expecting didn't happen he asked timidly. "Mrs Colby…Are you alright."

"I'm fine." Alexis's answer came not from down the phone and Mark all but jumped a foot in the air, his eyes opening wide in shock as his boss had come out of her office to talk to him in person.

"You're sure that it was Blake Carrington?"

Nodding as he held himself on the knife-edge Mark hesitated adding to the conversation yet he couldn't hold the comments back. "And I am pretty certain…Well I'm good with phones and the reception was kind of buzzy…You tend to get that when people are on their car phones."

Taking in that piece of intelligence Alexis allowed her eyes to un-focus. She could just make a run for it, she did after all have a pressing engagement across town that there was no way she was missing; the prospect of a little payback had been the only thing that had kept her mood up all day. Yet if she did that then Blake would just come back tomorrow…

No it was time to implement Frank's little plan.

Smiling broadly at her secretary who stared back at her in stark astonishment. "That's excellent work Mark thank you…Perhaps this arrangement is going to work out after all."

"You're welcome Mrs Colby." Mark stuttered unable to believe the about face. True he hadn't expected working for Alexis Colby would be a picnic; he had heard enough rumours from her past secretary tally. Yet there was something of a challenge in working for Denver's leading diva and surviving longer than a week, besides the salary alone kept people applying and he needed something to keep him in Mimosa's and living in his far too expensive loft apartment.

"I need you to get Frank Dobson on the phone for me…" Alexis demanded suddenly all business again and Mark took a pen and began to take notes.

"Then if Mr Carrington arrives before Mr Dobson can you have him wait in the board room, tell him I've been held up in another meeting but that we've squeezed in a meeting for him to discuss the emergency aid…But don't say who with…Just let him draw his own conclusions." Alexis added with a smile.

"Anything else Mrs Colby?"

"Yes as soon as Mr Carrington is safely tucked away in the boardroom tell my driver to have my car standing by…I have an appointment that I simply cannot miss."

So Blake had changed the rules.

Yet as he paced the length of Colby Co's boardroom it quickly came back to him that Alexis was also a master at playing mind games and keeping him here, making him wait for her was just that.

She was reminding him of his place.

That it was him who needed her and not the other way around.

Needed her help in business, needed her forgiveness her absolution if he was ever to sort out the mess his personal life had become. Keeping him dangling at her pleasure, her whim, her mercy. Anticipating that by the time she deigned to arrive Blake would either be so boiling mad he would shoot himself in the foot and she would have a legitimate reason to withdraw all support or so desperate that he got down on his knees and begged for her help.

Well Blake Carrington had never begged for anything in his life and if begging was what it would take then he would just walk out of that door, head held high.

Yet leaving was the last thing he wanted. He wanted…No he needed to see her.

Clenching his fists to try and shift some of the nerves Blake tried settle his tension; yet it felt as though butterflies were wrestling in his stomach and he could feel the tickle of sweat beading on his top lip and between his shoulder blades. It was a good sort of tension though, tinged with fear and uncertainty, but Blake was looking forward to this confrontation in a strange probably sick way.

At least if she was yelling at him, accusing him then he got to see her firsthand not just from across a crowded room, at least if she was mad then she wasn't ignoring him.

Blake thought he had been on the receiving end of all of Alexis's emotions over the years, love hate, adoration abhorrence yet none had been strong enough to make him cave. Yet her indifference…

Finally the door to the boardroom opened and Blake turned expectantly all the words he wanted, needed to say poised on his tongue, yet as his companion stepped into the room all those words evaporated.

Anger such as he had rarely felt rushed up from his toes and shaking as he tried to restrain it Blake stared into the smug glacial eyes of Frank Dobson and demanded. "What the bloody hell are you doing here?"

Smirking as he took in and relished the full force of Carrington's anger, taking note of every pulsing vein and clenched teeth so he could recount it in detail to Alexis over their dinner, Frank closed the door behind him and settled himself down at the head of the table.

"I asked you a question Dobson, what are you doing here and where the hell is Alexis?"

"Oh I'm sorry Carrington did you misunderstand…Well I suppose a man of your advanced age can't be expected to catch on so quickly."

"Dobson…." Blake growled resisting the urge to throw himself across the room and haul the other man up by the lapels of his neatly pressed new suit.

"She isn't coming Carrington, she never was." Dobson retorted superiorly leaning back in his chair soaking in Blake's dumb expression as the realisation he had been played and completely outmanoeuvred finally set in.

"Now if you want Colby Co's help, from now on you'll have to deal with me. I'm Colby Co's new emergency aid liaison officer and I'm here to help."

Blinking back the tears Krystle focused on doing something constructive.

They were almost finished with the packing, there had been a crew over most of the day who had been charged with shifting the larger items into storage, or off to sales, all that had been left to do was pack the personal items that Sammy-Jo wanted shipped back to New York.

It was dull monotonous work but at least it kept her busy, and busy meant she didn't have time to think of Blake. Especially didn't think of or run through that scene in his office when she had caught him staring at Alexis's picture in the papers. She certainly didn't have time to consider what hurt the most, the fact that Blake kept lying to her or that fact that he seemed genuinely unaware just how obvious it was that he was still obsessed with Alexis.

Obsession was a good word for it. Not love. Not the kind that they had shared in their marriage but something darker, more twisted that seemed to hold Blake in it's grip like a madman. There were times that she was almost sure he was breaking free, that he recognised the dark path he was heading down and in those moment Krystle wanted nothing more than to reach out and drag him back to safety. Yet then his eyes would drift off, would cloud over, their dark depths locked fixated on a woman that wasn't there save in his thoughts.

But she couldn't give up…Couldn't abandon him when he so clearly needed someone to guide him back to the light. Krystle just hoped it wouldn't take something drastic to make Blake see that his behaviour was far from healthy.

"Come on Auntie Krystle take a break, you've been at it like a machine." Sammy-Jo's irreverent tone helped to jar Krystle from her dark thoughts and she smiled at the younger blonde, who dressed in an oversized t-shirt and leggings leant against the doorjamb sipping a cocktail.

"I made Iced Tea you want some?"

Raising an eyebrow Krystle smiled softly. "Somehow I doubt that is tea Sammy-Jo."

"It is." Sammy-Jo insisted before a playful smile broke out on her face. "Well the Long-Island version in any case."

"No thank you." Krystle replied, not adding the fact that she was banned from consuming any alcohol by her doctors as it could react badly to the drug regime they had her on.

"So at least take a break, join me in a walk…I want to say goodbye to the old place."

Sighing as she realised her niece would not continue to take no for an answer Krystle nodded, falling into step beside Sammy-Jo as they headed outside.

Yet they had barely taken two steps when they spotted a jeep heading up the drive.

"Uncle Blake?" Sammy-Jo question squinting against the setting sun.

"No that's not Blake." Krystle muttered her horror only growing as she realised just who was turning up unannounced.

Parking his jeep Jackson Hobbs smiled brightly as the two pretty blondes made their way over.

"Hey Jackson we weren't expecting you…I know we've signed all the papers but I thought you weren't moving in till the weekend, unless their has been a change of plan?" Sammy-Jo asked. "We've not finished packing yet."

"Oh I'm not here to evict you Sammy-Jo." Jackson retorted with a smile.

"I just promised to show my partner around the place…Hey I don't suppose I could get one of those whilst I wait?" He added indicating the cocktail, smiling in his own cocky manner as Sammy-Jo laughed and they headed back inside the ranch house.

"Your partner?" Krystle asked clearly bemused.

Considering the way Mr Hobbs had been blatant in flirting with her since they had met and the fact that he had escorted Alexis to the gala she had assumed he was single, yet if he had a partner that only confirmed how much of a player Jackson really was.

As if sensing her thoughts Jackson smiled smugly. "My business partner Mrs Carrington…I have big plans for this place, and big plans require big bucks to back them up. So I will manage the stables and have a 50% cut in the business but I sold my partner the land, the deeds to the ranch house…"

Frowning in confusion as she handed him his drink Sammy-Jo slowly began to draw the dots together. "So if you don't own this place any longer then…."

"Then his agreement not to evict you until the weekend is about as solid as the quicksand beneath your feet!" Another, familiar voice finished mockingly from the doorway.

"Alexis!" Sammy-Jo hissed her blue eyes narrowing like a riled cat.

"The one and only." Alexis retorted mockingly yet her former daughter in law couldn't hold her attention for long, not when there were bigger fish to fry.

"And Krystle all recovered and back with us. Although I have to say darling I don't see that your extended beauty sleep had any benefits…You should have taken advantage of some of the other clinics in Switzerland, I've heard that in certain cases they've been able to knock ten years off."

Stunned by the sudden venomous attack Krystle struggled to think of a biting comeback. It was just too unreal, here was her rival in the flesh. Yet this time Krystle had to battle the knowledge that far from being just Blake's vengeful ex-wife, the thorn in both their sides, an impotent echo from the past; Alexis had a more recent claim on Blake than herself.

"Some of us prefer to grow older gracefully Alexis, not that that is something you would know anything about." Krystle finally managed once she had regained the use of her voice.

Smirking at the comeback Alexis relished the chance to finally cross barbs with her nemesis. "Yes and aren't you just speeding along, at this rate you'll be wrapped up in that old rocking chair in no time…Now I really would love the opportunity to stand here and chat about old times with you Krystle dear; perhaps ask your opinion on the redecorating I did before Christmas?"

Alexis paused watching as that comment hit home.

"However I came here for one thing…"

"Which is?" Sammy-Jo demanded bringing Alexis's attention back to her.

Smiling sweetly Alexis replied in a soft yet firm voice. "To tell you to get the hell off of my land…Colby Acres is no place for trailer park trash."

Part 6:

It was a lazy Sunday morning when Blake finally gathered his courage together.

He could have made this trip earlier yet it seemed life had its own way of delaying him long enough for his anger to calm so that the very thought of the humiliating meeting with Frank Dobson didn't immediately send him into a rage. Besides things had improved at least slightly since then and in a round about way he had Alexis to thank for that.

After all it had been her callous evicting of Krystle and Sammy-Jo that had left both blondes with nowhere to live at very short notice. Blake had of course offered them house space and much to his relief both had agreed; although including Sammy-Jo in the package had done little to endear him to the rest of his family.

Yet even this one step forward was almost two steps back as Krystle had been very clear in her ground rules when he had tried to help her bring her things upstairs.

"Here let me take that it looks heavy." Blake offered reaching for the box surprised when Krystle pulled away.

"I can manage Blake I am not an invalid or a child."

Sighing as he tried to avoid this snowballing into another fight Blake reluctantly pulled back. "I never accused you of being either Krystle…I just don't want you pushing yourself, Dr Muir…"

"Told me I am doing better than expected." Krystle spat back setting the heavy box down for a moment. "I don't need coddling Blake not by you. Now if you'll excuse me I need to let Jeanette know which room I am staying in."

"You don't need to stay in a guest room Krystle, you know you have a room of your own in this house." Blake retorted before he could stop himself regretting it the moment the words were out of his mouth.

Picking the box back up Krystle turned to face him, her beautiful face composed and serious.

"I had a room in this house Blake! But lets get one thing straight I am moving back in here because frankly I don't have anywhere else to go and right now my life is too much of a mess to try and sort out a new job or apartment. Also it means I get to see Krystina but I am not moving back in here for you. My ultimatum still stands, unless you can prove to me you're over Alexis then I won't ever be moving back into your bedroom…Good night Blake!"

She had left him there, standing dumbfounded on the stairs unsure just how the hell he was going to accomplish that. He had tried to draw a line under his relationship with Alexis, yet every time he thought he was making progress something happened and he was drawn back into her web each time deeper than the last.

He had tried at the office, thinking at if only he could see Alexis and try to apologise that would be enough to stop her haunting his dreams.

Yet that had been spectacular flop and Blake only had one option left. And as of right now he had nothing left to loose.

Stretching as she glanced at her bedside clock Fallon smiled as she felt her husband's arm slide about her waist.

"Morning." Jeff grunted pleased when Fallon rolled back over and threaded her arms about his neck.

Kissing him softly Fallon waited before answering. "Morning yourself."

"It's getting late." Jeff commented. "I was wondering when you might wake up...Did you have fun last night?"

Smiling in a slightly guilty manner Fallon paused before answering. "Sorry if I woke you up."

"You did but do you really think I mind being woken at three by my gorgeous wife who is more than three sheets to the wind as she tries to serenade me with Sinatra?"

"Oh god I had forgotten about that!" Fallon groaned lifting a hand to her forehead. "Blame mother."

Frowning in confusion Jeff couldn't help but dig. "What on earth did it have to do with Alexis? I thought you were having a work's dinner?"

Closing her eyes as she cursed her big mouth Fallon covered quickly. "We were but then I bumped into Mummy as she finishing dinner with one of her new board members. We decided to catch up and well you know Mummy even now she can still drink anyone under the table on champagne."

"I see."

Opening her eyes at Jeff's tense reply now it was Fallon's turn to frown. "What precisely do you claim to see Jeff Colby?"

If Jeff had been paying closer attention he might have caught the tight inflection in Fallon's tone but instead he carried on regardless.

"It just seems to me that you are spending more than enough time with your mother recently. First at the gala when I barely got to see you…Then dinner the night after, now last night…" Jeff added bitterly. "When may I ask will the rest of the family be slotted in, will the children have to start making appointments?"

"Don't be facetious Jeff." Fallon spat pushing his hands away and grabbing her dressing gown knotting it firmly around her waist as the desire for coffee finally set in.

"Can you blame me for not wanting to hang around the house more? I mean dear god if I'm not getting the third degree from Daddy, trying to wheedle information about Mother and trying to act like he still doesn't care about her; then I am having to sit through Krystle's attempt to infiltrate her way back into the family and failing miserable."

"You haven't given her a chance Fallon." Jeff argued fairly yet Fallon was in no mood to be fair.

"Why the hell should I?" Fallon spat back. "All her return has done is make people miserable, Krystle included."

"It was Blake's choice…"

"Yeah and it was the wrong one." Fallon retorted hotly. "If he had any clue what suffering…" She began only to stop suddenly as she realised just what secret she was about reveal.

"If he knew what?" Jeff demanded his resentment at having his wife lie to him for the past month finally flaring hot and he couldn't stop himself. "If he knew about Alexis's suicide attempt you mean?"

Gasping in astonishment Fallon could only stare at him open mouthed, her horror growing as she speculated how long he had known and how the hell he had found out. The nightmare growing as she wondered if Jeff had found out how many other people might also know?…That Blake might already know and actually didn't give a damn.

"How…How did you…"

Understanding the question she really wanted answering Jeff sighed his previous anger fading the light of his wife's pure panic. "Blake doesn't know…I overheard you talking to Steven and Adam and worked the rest out for myself…Why didn't you tell me Fallon, my own wife you should have trusted me?"

"I'm sorry." Fallon managed to gasp. "I was just so afraid."

"That I'd tell Blake? I know." Jeff added sadly catching her pleading expression. "I won't tell him, it's not my secret to tell, and it's up to you if you want to let Alexis know that I know."

Pulling her husband to her Fallon stifled the urge to cry, the relief that he knew and wouldn't tell was overwhelming and Fallon felt a weight lift off of her shoulders.

"Thank you….Thank you, I was just so worried about her, we all were and sending her away seemed like the only thing to do and yet we were so afraid that Daddy would find out, and he can't Jeff not ever…He could destroy her with this."

Returning the hug for a moment Jeff reluctantly pulled away. "You don't need to thank me. I care about Alexis, I wouldn't want to see her hurt anymore than you do, but I think you're wrong Blake wouldn't use this to hurt her and I think he has a right to know."

"Jeff…"

"I won't tell him!" Jeff answered hotly pulling on his own dressing gown. "But I think you should talk to Alexis, these things have a way of coming out eventually and don't you think it would be better if he heard from her or one of us rather than someone using it against him?"

Watching as her husband stormed off into the bathroom Fallon sank back down onto the bed. It would have been a hell of a lot easier if deep down she didn't at least suspect he might be right.

It hadn't been that long since Blake had visited Delta Ro and yet as he turned off of the road he was already surprised by the changes not least of which was the new name. Although the sign for Colby Acre's was new and discrete it still marked a transition. The change of ownership became even more obvious as he headed through the grounds, it was still early days but from the hive of activity he could see big changes afoot.

Steering the jeep down the track Blake glanced at the back seat anxious that his peace offering was still where he left it. He could have had it dropped off or could even have had his driver come past on his way into the office on Monday. Yet there something's a man needed to do himself and this was definitely one of them so he had borrowed the jeep and driven himself over.

Parking in front of the house Blake was surprised that here unlike the rest of the property there seemed to be little alteration. Not as surprised as he had been when he had learnt that Alexis had brought the ranch in the first place; Alexis Colby and horses seemed an unlikely combination, there had to be more to this than meets the eye.

"Good Morning!"

The sudden greeting startled Blake and he turned surprised to see a smartly suited houseman standing by the front door.

"Good Morning…Is Mrs Colby around?"

"I'm sorry sir but she rode out first thing this morning with the architect to discuss the plans for the new house…She should however be back soon as she has guests for luncheon. If you'd care to walk round to the stables you might just catch her."

Blinking as the surprises kept coming thick and fast Blake could only nod dumbly before reaching into the back of the jeep and retrieving the housewarming present. Following the curve of the building Blake headed towards the stables the sound of the horses causing his present to perk up.

"Shush you." Blake muttered as Mr Kensington yapped excitedly, wiggling to be set down. "Behave you damn dog, you've already caused me enough grief today."

And he had. Blake never again wanted to be in the position of explaining to Krystina why she couldn't keep the puppy she had come to adore. The tears and tantrum she had thrown had clearly startled Krystle who hadn't before experienced the wilful stubborn streak that Krystina had grown into. A trait that was one more thing he was being blamed for, even if it was a matter as out of his hands as genetics.

Cursing, as taking advantage of his distraction M Kensington managed to wiggle out of his grasp and bound excitedly towards the fenced paddocks, Blake was reduced to chasing after him cursing Fallon and her choice of Christmas presents with each step. Panting as he finally caught up with the Labrador, grasping him firmly by the scruff of his neck Blake came to an abrupt halt; his eyes widening as his brain finally caught up with what he was seeing.

Alexis riding.

Alexis riding a horse with obvious skill and enthusiasm as she raced across the paddocks leaving her companion to choke on her dust.

Face flushed and her shorter hair escaping the confines of her hat Alexis turned to call out to her architect. "Come on Peter my grandchildren are faster than you!"

"Coming Mrs Colby." The architect replied urging his own mount on faster, whilst fighting the urge to be sick from the jolty movement.

Yet Alexis's bright smile and enthusiasm quickly evaporated when she caught sight of her unexpected and unwelcome guest. Pulling her mount to a halt by the gate she stared down at a strangely silent Blake Carrington, taking in his casual clothes and handsome face. He looked good, better than he had any right to and Alexis felt butterflies begin to dance in her stomach.

Covering her nerves with a sneer Alexis used the added feeling of security her higher position afforded, demanding imperiously. "What the hell do you think you're doing here Blake?"