From Friends to Strangers….Chapter 9
Brenda turned in her seat. "Jason, I have a question."
"Ok, ask it."
They are on a plane headed to Maui.
"The other night at your grandparents' house, were they acting strange to you? You know…when we returned from the library?"
He grinned. "They are always acting strange."
She smiled. "I'm serious, Jason. Stop joking."
"I'm not joking."
"I think they were acting strange. It was as if they knew what we had been doing."
"Brenda, we were not doing anything."
She winked. "No, nothing at all. You were just trying to suck the skin off my neck."
He laughed. "No, I wasn't. Did I leave any marks?"
"No, and thank God. All I needed was for Lila to see a hickey on my neck."
Jason grinned. "I'm sure my grandfather has given her more than her fair share."
Brenda laughed. "No, Lila has never had sex. She is an angel sent down from heaven, and I don't want to talk about your grandparents' sex life. Seriously, you don't think they know anything?"
"No, I don't."
"You don't think it is strange that we are we always being invited to dinners?"
"My grandmother loves to entertain."
Brenda leaned back in her seat. "Yeah, I suppose. Has Monica said anything about me to you?"
"Nothing out of the ordinary."
"Maybe I am overreacting, because no one has mentioned you either. At least nothing out of the ordinary. You are invited because you are family. They invite me because they have always treated me like family. End of story."
"Glad I was able to help."
She rolled her eyes. "Yeah, thanks. Jason, have you heard from Keesha?"
Keesha was Jason's girlfriend before the accident.
She tried to continue their relationship but it didn't work out.
There was no connection, because he didn't remember their life together.
Jason shook his head. "No, not since she moved. I think it was hard for her to be around me. I understand. I just didn't remember our relationship. I didn't have those feelings anymore. I know it hurt her but I couldn't pretend."
"You two were perfect. She was the good girl and you were the good guy."
"That's what they told me."
"Jason, I know you want to eventually move to an island and live, but what about a family? A wife and kids?"
"Do I want them?"
"Yes, I am just wondering that's all."
He shrugged. "I don't know. I honestly have never really thought about it. Have you ever thought about living on an island?"
She laughed. "I don't know. I have honestly never really thought about it."
They burst into laughter.
She grabbed a hold of his hand. "Lucy asked why I wasn't staying in the same hotel as the rest of the crew."
"I'm not shocked. Lucy is nosey."
"I just told her you didn't think it was secure enough." Brenda started giggling. "You know, she asked if she should move to another hotel too."
Jason laughed.
Jason and Brenda decided to stay in a different hotel because they were going to be sharing a room.
It made more sense to stay in a different hotel than the rest of the crew.
It wasn't the crew they were worried about.
It was Lucy.
She was least likely to stop by if they stayed in a different hotel.
They didn't need her getting suspicious.
Lucy was very observant. It would not take her long to figure things out, even if they made sure to get a suite with two bedrooms.
It wasn't that she didn't trust Lucy, because she did. She just wasn't sure if she wanted anyone to know yet.
Brenda yawned and rested her head against Jason's shoulder.
He kissed the top of her head. "Tired?"
"Yes, wake me up when we land."
He laughed. "No, I'll just leave you on the plane."
"You are so funny." She closed her eyes. "Why aren't you tired? We both barely slept last night, getting ready for this trip."
"I don't know. I can't sleep."
"Well, I will sleep for the both of us."
"Ok, you do that."
She yawned again. "You don't have to tell me twice."
Jason couldn't sleep even if he wanted to.
He had a lot on his mind.
Well, there was one thing in particular.
Someone in particular.
Sonny
He called.
Turns out, he would be returning to Port Charles soon.
He would probably be there when they got back from Hawaii.
He didn't want Brenda to know.
Sonny was afraid she'd disappear.
He knew how impulsive she could be.
Jason knew Brenda would want to know.
He just wasn't sure if he should tell her.
He still felt like he owed Sonny a lot.
He had been nothing but a friend to him, but….Brenda deserved to know.
He just wasn't sure if he should tell her or keep Sonny's secret.
Sonny knew they left Port Charles.
Jason told him.
He told him Brenda had a photo shoot and he would be going with her.
Sonny didn't really know where, because Jason didn't tell him that.
He didn't ask either.
Maybe because he trusted him?
He trusted him.
Jason hated what he was doing to his friend.
He didn't mean to fall for Brenda.
It just happened.
At that moment he made the decision not to tell her, not while they were in Hawaii.
She had to work and needed to be focused.
It would ruin her trip if he told her and he definitely didn't want to do that..
He would make a decision before they got back to Port Charles….
Brenda and Jason's hotel was about twenty minutes away from the one the crew was staying at.
They were staying in a two bedroom suite.
They decided to get two bedrooms just in case.
The suite they were staying in was probably one of the best in the hotel.
It was a suite that was chosen by Jason.
Brenda couldn't believe how nice it was.
It just didn't seem like his style.
Jason was the total opposite of Jax and Sonny, who both liked the finer things in life, and had no problem letting the world know it…
Brenda and Jason didn't do much that first night, besides order room service, and go straight to bed.
Jason couldn't sleep on the plane, but he didn't have that problem when he got to the hotel…..
It's early the next morning.
Brenda still had some time before she had to be at the shoot.
They were still on Port Charles time so they woke up pretty early.
Brenda's back is pressed against Jason's chest.
His arms were wrapped around her, holding her close.
Brenda looked around the room. "Jason, this suite is really nice. I was actually shocked when we walked in."
"Why?"
"Just doesn't seem like your style."
He kissed her shoulder. "It's not. I got it for you."
"You didn't have to do that."
"I know. I wanted to."
"Do you think this is what I need?"
"No, of course not, Brenda. I just wanted to do something nice for you. That's it."
'Oh…well…thanks."
"You are welcome."
*silence*
"Jason, are you telling the truth?"
"About what?"
"Be honest. Do you think I'm that type of girl? The kind you have to buy."
He grinned. "Brenda, I just wanted to do something special. Stop overreacting."
She relaxed in his arms. "Ok. What are you going to do today?"
"What do you mean?"
"While I am at the photo shoot."
"I was thinking I would go with you."
She turned to face him. "No, you are on vacation. You should be on a beach enjoying yourself."
"I'll be looking at you, so don't worry I'll be enjoying myself. I am looking forward to seeing you in your element."
She looked confused. "Why?"
"Because I want to."
"Jason, it will probably be a long shoot, as in all day."
He shrugged. "Ok?"
"Ok, if you really want to go?"
He leaned over and kissed her. "I do."
They spent time lounging in bed before ordering breakfast, showering, and heading to the site for the shoot.
The shoot was taking place on a private beach.
A beach rented out by Deception.
As soon as Brenda arrived she was sent to hair and makeup.
Jason sat down in the seat next to her.
She looked over at him. "Are you sure you don't want to go site seeing or something?"
"Stop trying to get rid of me."
"I'm not. I like having you around. I love it. I just feel guilty that you are stuck here."
"Brenda, I don't mind."
She shrugged. "Ok, if you say so. Jason, do you ever wonder why we didn't get along before?"
He didn't say a word, he just smiled.
"Ok, never mind. It was probably my fault."
"Probably?"
She smiled. "Ok, it was my fault."
He laughed.
Hair and makeup was done two hours later and now they are getting ready to start.
Jason and Brenda were standing off by themselves.
Brenda had already changed into one of the swimsuits.
It was a tiny red bikini.
Jason smiled. "Are you cold?"
She cocked her head to the side. "Freezing." She pushed him. "No, I am not cold."
He looked down. "You should be. You look good."
She blushed. "I don't think you have ever told me that."
"What? That you look good."
"Yes."
"I'm sure you have heard that a million times."
"Not from you. Maybe because you haven't always thought it."
"It was hard to see anything other than your mouth moving."
She laughed. "Oh, you are so funny!"
They burst into laughter.
Jason reached over and touched her hair. "It looks like yours."
"That's the idea. I don't want them frying my hair."
"Me either, I like your hair."
She smiled. "You just like grabbing it."
Jason grinned.
Jax has just arrived on set.
He noticed Brenda and Jason as soon as he got there.
Something was different.
Lucy walked up. "What are you looking at? I bet I can guess. Brenda? Thinking about dating her again?"
Jax shook his head. "No, I'm done with being second choice."
Lucy nudged him with her elbow. "Jax, you were never second choice."
"She chose Sonny. I would feel like second choice. I am never going there again. Plus, we are friends. Things are good between us. We are fine with the way things are." Jax didn't want to talk about his relationship with Brenda. There was something else on his mind. "Do you think something is going on between her and Jason?"
Lucy laughed. "I don't think so. Jason is Brenda's security. That's until Sonny's enemies realize they aren't together anymore."
"Yeah, the whole mob thing."
"Yes, that. To be honest, Jason and Brenda fight entirely too much to be an item. So, I doubt there is anything going on."
"They aren't fighting now."
Lucy looked over at them. "No, they are not."
She joined Jax in staring at them.
Lucy would never tell Jax what she really thought.
Of course, she thought there was something going on.
They looked at each other like they were the only two people on the beach.
The photographer, who wasn't standing too far from Jax and Lucy, started snapping photos of them.
Jason and Brenda had no idea they had an audience, they were totally focused on each other.
They talked until it was time to begin.
Jason moved out of the way and watched her go to work hardly ever taking his eyes off her.
The shoot was long but she stayed professional throughout.
He knew she was tired.
He knew, because he knew her.
It lasted for twelve hours.
They took a couple of breaks in between to freshen up her makeup and have a quick lunch.
They decided to turn a two day shoot into a one day shoot.
It was decided as a whole that everyone should have the chance to relax in Hawaii. Not just fly in, work, and fly out.
Brenda didn't want anyone to come to Hawaii and not be able to enjoy it.
So, they worked hard to get the shots they needed in one day….
Brenda was too tired to hang out with the crew afterwards, so her and Jason went back to their hotel room.
She just wanted to shower, eat, and go to sleep.
He ordered their food before joining her in the shower.
They had gotten use to taking showers together.
It was just like blinking and breathing now.
They didn't take them together all of the time, just some.
Jason moved up under the water. "You were great today."
"Thanks, I can't believe you stayed the whole time."
"It is much more grueling than I expected. I'm not sure how you maintained your focus."
"I love it and when you have the right people working with you, it's easy." She winked. "I was also trying to impress a certain guy."
"He was already impressed. He was impressed when he woke up and saw your face this morning."
She grinned. "Stop flirting with me."
Jason grabbed the body wash. "I'm not flirting, I'm being honest. I don't know how to flirt."
"Jason, stop lying! You are always flirting with me and you are so good at it."
He laughed. "I don't know what you are talking about."
She rolled her eyes. "You know."
He leaned over and kissed her. "Ok, I know."
She laughed.
They finished their shower just in time for the arrival of their food.
They sipped wine, ate, and talked.
Well, she sipped wine. Jason had a beer.
The wine really relaxed her.
She could hardly keep her eyes open after drinking it.
Jason stood up. "Brenda, let's go to bed."
"You don't mind?"
He reached for her hand. "Not at all…..."
They are in bed.
Brenda snuggled up against him. "You smell good. You also feel good."
She kissed his neck. "I am so glad I am done with work, and now we can officially start having fun."
Jason's cell phone rung.
He grabbed it.
It was Sonny.
He got out of bed and walked out of the room.
He answered. "Jason."
"Hey, how is it going?"
Jason closed the bedroom door. "It's going."
"I called to let you know that I am back in the states. I'm not in Port Charles. I didn't want to risk anyone seeing me and alerting her. You know…to be honest, I didn't think I could wait. I wanted to see her as soon as possible, but in the end I didn't think that was a good idea. She's working, it wouldn't be fair. Hell, this whole situation isn't fair. I called to let you know that I am going to spend some time in New York, but I'll be back by the time she returns. How is she?"
Jason looked back at the bedroom door. "She's Brenda."
Sonny laughed. "I know what that means. I hope she isn't still giving you a hard time."
"We are fine."
"I guess that's obvious, she asked you to go with her."
"We are getting along much better these days."
"Good. I'm telling you Jason, I'm really glad I don't know where the shoot is, because I probably would have…I'm just glad I didn't ask and you didn't tell me. I miss her. There hasn't been anyone else. No one. Has she been seeing anyone?"
He lied. "She wouldn't tell me. We aren't really following her anymore so-"
"Yeah, I know. I guess I have no right to ask, especially after everything. How is Hawaii?"
"It's great. Not too much to complain about."
"Good to hear. Well, I will let you get back to it. I'll be in touch."
"Yeah."
Jason disconnected the call.
As much as he cared for Brenda, and he did, he still felt horrible.
He was betraying his friend.
Sonny trusted him and he didn't trust a lot of people.
He was his friend when he didn't have anyone.
He gave him a job and made him independent.
What he was doing was not right on any level, but he didn't plan this.
It was something that just happened.
Regardless, it still didn't make it right.
He walked back into the bedroom.
Brenda had fallen asleep.
He turned off his phone and placed it on the nightstand.
He looked down at her.
He felt guilty about hurting his friend. He also felt guilty about not telling her.
He knew he should tell her, but was that fair to Sonny?
He was not in competition with Sonny.
This was not what this was about.
He just fell for the wrong woman.
Not because he thought she was wrong for him, the exact opposite.
She was wrong because she was his best friend's girl.
He knew why Sonny didn't show up.
It didn't make it right, but he knew.
He did it because someone threatened her life.
Jason sighed.
What was he doing?
Sonny would never forgive him for this.
Loyalty was everything to him and if the roles were reversed, Jason knew he would feel the same way.
He hated what he was doing.
He ran his hands down his face.
He just needed to stop thinking about it.
There would be plenty of time for that, when he got back to Port Charles.
Right now he was going to enjoy Hawaii.
It was really the calm before the storm.
He got back in bed, pulled Brenda close, and tried to get some sleep….
It's the next morning and Jason is just waking up.
He didn't wake up on his own, he had some help.
Brenda was planting kisses all over his face. "Wake up. Jason, wake up."
He opened his eyes and smiled. "I'm up."
"What time did you go to bed? I feel like I have been waiting for you to wake up forever."
"Pretty late."
"What were you doing?"
He yawned. "I couldn't sleep."
"You should have woke me up."
"No, you were tired."
She straddled him. "Why couldn't you sleep?"
"I just couldn't."
"It was probably because you were bored. I'm sorry I went to bed so early."
"It's fine."
She kissed him. "What do you want to do today?"
"We are in Maui, I'm sure we will figure it out."
"You're right and it is gorgeous out. Yesterday was long, but it was so worth it. We have an extra day and I am stoked!"
At that moment Brenda's cell phone rung.
She jumped off Jason and sprinted into the kitchen to answer it.
Jason yawned again.
He was still a little tired.
He had a hard time falling asleep last night, because he couldn't stop thinking about Sonny's return and what it meant for him and Brenda.
He promised himself that he wouldn't think about it, but it was easier said than done.
Yes, his relationship with Sonny was at jeopardy, but so was his relationship with Brenda.
He really had to be honest with himself.
There was a big chance she could want Sonny back too.
They had a lot of history.
She really loved him.
They had a history of having terrible breakups and then getting back together.
He had not really thought about any of that before getting involved with her.
What if he was just keeping her warm until Sonny returned?
This wasn't the first time she got involved with someone when she was on the outs with Sonny.
Maybe she was using him to get back at Sonny?
He was betraying his friend for something that might not even be real.
Jason got out of bed, opened the sliding doors, and walked out onto the balcony.
He thought about all of the time they spent together.
The way she looked at him.
How it felt when they were together.
He looked out into the water.
She was not using him.
He would know it.
This was real.
He could feel it.
Brenda walked out onto the balcony. "Guess who that was?"
Jason's eyes widen. "I'll bite, who?"
"Lucy. The crew is getting together today. So, I guess we have something to do. They are having a little party on the beach. The one we were supposed to be having the shoot on. It's still ours for the day, so we are getting together. Do you mind? We don't have to if you don't want to."
"I'm fine with it."
"Ok, we are meeting at noon, so we have a little time."
Jason smirked. "A little time?"
She nodded. "A little time. I really want to make up for last night."
"You have nothing to make up for."
She smiled. "Are you sure you don't want me to make up for last night?"
He shook his head. "On second thought, I'm not sure."
She jumped on him, wrapping her arms around his neck, and legs around his waist. "You are going to love how I make up for it."
He kissed her and took her back inside…..
Brenda and Jason were really surprised when they made it to the beach.
Jax really went all out.
There were so many different things going on.
Beach volleyball, hula dancers giving instructions, surfing lessons, massages, plenty of food and drinks.
There was a little bit of everything….
It's later and they have been at the beach for almost three hours.
Jason was surfing.
Brenda and Lucy were lounging on the beach.
"Brenda, why is Jason here?"
Brenda pulled her shades over her eyes. "For protection."
Lucy smiled. "Really?"
"Yes, Lucy. You know it's that whole thing with Sonny and his enemies."
Lucy flipped over onto her side and propped her head up on her elbow. "Is something going on between the two of you? Be honest. Is it happening?"
Brenda stared straight ahead. "No, there is nothing going on."
"Don't play dumb with me, Brenda Barrett. I don't believe that there isn't anything going on. You two aren't fighting anymore and you seem closer."
"Maybe I just got tired of fighting."
"Well, Jax is wondering the same thing."
Brenda looked over at her. "Jax?"
"Yes, he was asking questions about you and Jason."
She looked over at Jax. "Really?"
"Yes, I tried to pretend as if I didn't think there was anything going on, but I noticed it too. I won't tell anyone. Come on…be honest."
Brenda sighed. "You promise?"
Lucy screamed and everyone looked in their direction.
Brenda shoved her. "Lucy, stop."
Lucy started giggling.
Brenda looked around. "Lucy, will you stop? People are looking."
"I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry. I just knew something was going to happen. I just knew it. You really like him don't you?"
"Shhh, will you please lower your voice? Someone is going to hear you."
"Brenda, no one can hear me." Lucy rolled her eyes. "You are just being paranoid. Do you like him?"
"If I didn't like him, there wouldn't be anything to tell. Lucy, I didn't plan this"
Lucy grinned. "Trust me, I believe you. The best things aren't planned."
"You know with Jax, I was trying to get over Sonny. I cared about him. He was great. I loved Jax, but it was…hey…it was what it was. This has nothing at all to do with Sonny. Yes, Sonny left me at the altar. He opened the door for this. I was mad at everybody. I thought I would never get over it. Guess what? I got over it. I survived him." Brenda looked out into the water at Jason. "This is not about Sonny. I don't even think about him. When this thing happened with Jason, I was done with Sonny. I wasn't trying to get over him. I was done."
Lucy grinned. "Are you in love?"
She looked over at Lucy and smiled. "I don't know, Lucy. I am…good."
Lucy nodded. "I can tell, but Brenda let's discuss the elephant on the beach. What about Sonny?"
"I told you, he has nothing to do with this."
"I believe you. I haven't seen you pining away after him at all. I believe you, but you know he is going to return. What's going to happen?"
"I'm not sure. He is Jason's best friend. We don't talk about it. I guess we will cross that bridge when we come to it. Hopefully, he doesn't return. I want him to stay away. Not because I want him. I am so done. I was done the day he let me walk down that aisle. Jason is not though. He still considers Sonny his friend."
"He is seeing his friend's woman."
Brenda frowned. "I am not Sonny's anything. Please, don't tell anyone. Kevin doesn't count because he knows."
Lucy's mouth fell open. "He knows? That…sneak!"
"Lucy, he is not a sneak. He is my therapist. He can't tell you."
She laughed. "Oh, yeah that. Well, I'm happy for you. I won't say a word. I promise."
"Thanks…..."
Jason and Brenda didn't make it back to the hotel until late.
They are in bed.
Brenda stretched. "I am so tired."
Jason agreed. "Yeah, me too. It has been a long day."
"Long but fun. Did you have a good time?"
He nodded "I did."
"You and Jax actually got along."
"It was easy, we didn't talk."
Brenda laughed. "Whatever works. Jason, I need to tell you something. I told Lucy about us. She is not going to tell anyone. I trust her."
"I guess I'll have to her trust her too. I have no choice."
"Are you upset?"
He shook his head. "No."
"She won't say a word."
He shrugged. "That's hard to believe, but you know her better than I do."
"I just wanted to be honest with you."
"I appreciate that."
She was being honest with him, but he was keeping something very big from her.
He should tell her about Sonny.
She had every right to know, but he promised Sonny he wouldn't say anything.
"Jason?"
"Hmmm?"
"Where did you go? Are you worried about Lucy? Because you shouldn't be. I have told her a lot of things, and to my knowledge, she has never repeated a word."
"No, it's not that. Actually it's nothing."
She touched his cheek. "Are you sure?"
He reached up and placed his hand on top of hers. "I am. We should try to get some sleep, we have to get up early."
She smiled. "Yes, I can wait to go snorkeling. I have never been snorkeling."
"Me either, at least I don't think I have."
They both laughed.
She leaned over and kissed him. "Goodnight."
"Night…..."
"Are you ready?"
"Jason, are you sure there aren't any sharks out there?"
He flashed a smile. "I can't be totally sure. How fast can you swim?"
Brenda eyes widen. "That's not funny, Jason."
"We are going to be fine. We are just snorkeling. We have the instructors with us. Relax."
"I'm going to jump in and get attacked. I just know it!"
"Brenda, you are not going to get attacked."
"Yes, I am. I know it. I have the worst luck, and I have this bad feeling."
"The water is safe." He touched her cheek. "I'll never let anything happen to you. Don't you trust me?"
"More than anyone, but-"
"But nothing. Do you trust me?"
"Yes, but you are not allowed to carry a weapon in the water." She lowered her voice. "Do you have a weapon?"
He laughed. "No, Brenda, we are going to be fine."
"You should go ahead. I'll just wait until you come back."
"No, you won't. If you don't do this, you will regret it."
She sat down. "At least I'll still be alive. I'll get over it."
"Brenda, we are in Hawaii. Look how beautiful it is. You will be fine."
"Do you really believe that?"
He reached for her hand. "Yeah, I do. You are going to be fine. We have been practicing all morning. We can jump in together."
She took a deep breath, grabbed a hold of his hand, and stood up. "Ok, ok….let's just get it over with."
"No, this is supposed to be fun."
"Right fun, being fish food is not fun."
"I thought you were excited. At least you were last night."
She looked out into the water. "That was before I dreamed that a killer shark was chasing me."
He laughed. "Brenda, come on."
"If I die, it is your fault, and I will never forgive you…"
*An hour later*
Brenda could hardly contain herself. "That was so much fun!"
"I told you it would be."
Brenda didn't even want to leave the water.
"Jason, it was so peaceful and beautiful at the same time!"
"I agree, it was really amazing."
"We definitely have to come back and do that again."
Jason grabbed her hand. "We will."
After they were back on shore, they went back to their hotel room to shower and change.
They spent the rest of the day shopping and site seeing.
They closed out the day by having dinner at a nice restaurant.
"Jason, I feel like this is our first date."
"We go places all the time."
"Yeah, but we can't hold hands, or sit this close to one another. This is our first date."
"Since you put it like that, I guess it is. Are you having a good time?"
"I am really enjoying myself. I'm enjoying us."
"Me too."
She leaned over and kissed his cheek. "It feels odd kissing you in public. I like kissing you in public, but I like kissing you in private too."
He chuckled. "How would you rate this first date?"
"I guess I should include the snorkeling too. It has been a great first date."
"I guess it is safe to assume that there will be a second one?"
"You would assume right. In fact, this first date has been so great that I think we are going to have first date sex."
He laughed. "Nice girls don't do that."
"I'm not a nice girl."
He grinned, leaned over, and sucked on her bottom lip…..
After finishing dinner they decided to take a stroll on the beach.
They are walking hand in hand.
"Jason, I can't help but think about Miami."
"Which part? You screaming at me in the middle of the jewelry store? Because that is something I will never forget and also the look on that jeweler's face while you were doing it."
She laughed. "All of it. I think I was temporarily insane. I was on the beach, late at night, looking for a ring that I decided to throw over the balcony."
"You were dealing with a lot."
They found a spot and sat down.
Brenda looked out into the water.
Jason's eyes rested on her. "You look pretty."
She turned her body towards him. "There it is again. I don't think I will ever get tired of hearing you say that."
"Do you really need to hear it?"
"I like hearing it from you. Are you attracted to me, Jason?"
He laughed. "What kind of question is that?"
"I just want to know. I know you like me, but are you physically attracted to me? If you didn't know me would ask me out?"
"I don't think I have ever asked anyone out. They have always asked me. Well…except you, but this is different."
"You have never asked anyone out?"
"Not initially."
"Wow, he is so good looking the women come to him!"
He laughed. "It's not like that. It just not that formal."
"If you didn't know me, would you ask me out? Let me rephrase that, if I asked you out would you accept?"
He shook his head. "No, you are loud."
She pushed him.
"It's the truth. If I didn't know you like I do now, I wouldn't. Brenda, you know you are nice looking. The world knows that. That's not the reason why I was drawn to you. It was the hugs."
She laughed. "You are so funny."
"It's the truth. You give the best hugs. When you let me in, I got to see a different side of you, and I liked it. You have this crazy ability to make people feel like they are the most important person in your world."
At that moment Sonny's words ran through his head.
When she loves you, there is nothing better.
He didn't know if Brenda loved him, but if it was anything like what he was experiencing, he would have never given her up.
He wasn't sure how Sonny did it.
He would have at the least been honest.
He would have shown up at that church and faced her.
"Jason, to be honest, I'm surprised you haven't gotten as far away from me as you possible could. You have seen me at my very worst. The messiest side of me, but you are still here. Why?"
"Brenda, I'm not going to lie. In the beginning I hated being around you. You drove me insane, but I had a job to do, and then something happened, I found myself wanting to be around you more and more. Maybe because you stopped screaming and started talking."
She smiled. "I still scream sometimes."
"You used to scream all of the time."
She looked down. "I was just mad at the world, Jason"
"No, not the world just Sonny….and me."
"I'm not mad at you anymore."
He smiled. "I can tell."
She laughed. "Is it because I have been letting you inside my vagina?"
Jason grinned. "I appreciate that."
"You are welcome."
They looked at each other and burst into laughter.
Jason's smile faded. "Brenda, are you still mad at Sonny?"
"Yes and no. Yes, because he sent me to a packed church and let me walk down that isle like a fool. I will never forgive him for that."
Jason looked out into the water.
Brenda continued. "And no bcause I wouldn't have you if he would have came."
"Are you saying you are happy he didn't show up? Because I don't know if I believe that. You were crazy about Sonny."
"Yes, I was. I'm not anymore. That's done, Jason."
He looked into her eyes. "I don't hate him, Brenda."
"I know."
Jason looked back out into the water.
"Jason, I am not happy he didn't show up, but I like where I am now."
He didn't respond.
Brenda's relationship with Sonny was a non-issue. Jason's friendship with him was different.
He was conflicted, she could see it in his eyes.
She knew how important that relationship was to him.
They had a very strong bond.
Maybe even greater than theirs?
"Jason, are you ready to go back to the hotel?"
"Yeah, sure."
He stood up and helped her up…..
They walked back to the room in silence.
He swiped the card and opened the door for her.
She walked past him and went inside….
It's later and they are in bed.
There was a weird energy in the air now.
He was on one side of the bed and she was on the other.
Her back was facing him.
She felt him move behind her.
His body pressing up against hers.
He reached around and linked his fingers with hers.
She pulled his hand up to her lips and kissed it.
She wanted to ask him if he wanted to end things after they returned.
She knew he hated what he was doing to Sonny.
She always knew it would be an issue, but never really felt it until that night.
She wanted to ask him, but she was scared the answer would be….yes.
So, she didn't say anything.
They just lay there in silence, until they both fell asleep….
It's the next morning.
Brenda woke up before Jason.
He woke up to her planting kisses all over his face….again.
"I am up!"
"I know, I can feel it."
He laughed.
"Jason, guess what day it is?"
"Wednesday?"
"Yes, but it is zip lining day! I am so excited! I have never been zip lining."
"Are you afraid?"
"No, I am excited!"
"I'm afraid. What if the line snaps?"
Her eyes got as big as saucers. "Jason, don't say that!"
"I had this terrible dream last night." He laughed. "I am just kidding."
"That's not funny! We can't go now. We are definitely going to end up on the news. Your family will find out about us on the news or in the papers. Secret lovers killed in a horrible accident."
Jason rolled his eyes. "Brenda, I was joking. It was just a joke."
"I don't want to go now. We can't go now."
"You are going. I apologize. I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said that."
"I don't accept your apology. I definitely don't want to go now. We will just have to find something else to do."
"Brenda, are you serious?"
She smiled. "No."
He laughed and flipped her over onto her back. "You really had me going."
"In addition to be a drama queen, I am an excellent actress, Mr. Quartermaine."
"Morgan."
"Jason, you are a Quartermaine."
He latched onto her neck. "Morgan."
She closed her eyes. "Quartermaine."
He moved down her body. "It's Morgan."
"Jason, you are a-"
She inhaled.
He lifted his head. "A what?"
She reached down and grabbed a handful of his hair, pushing his head back down.
He resisted. "A what?"
"Ok, you are a….Morgan."
He laughed and she pushed his head down again, but once again he resisted. "Don't squeeze my head with your thighs. I have to breathe."
She smiled. "No, Mr. Quartermaine, you only have to lick and suck. You can breathe anytime."
He laughed…
Brenda was in the process of getting strapped in when Jason decided to give her a pep talk.
"Brenda, you are going to be fine. This is extremely safe.. I'll be right behind you."
"Jason, I told you I am not scared! Relax!"
He threw up both hands. "Ok."
He stepped back.
She looked at him and yelled. "See you on the other side!"
With her knees pulled to her chest, yelling as loudly as he had ever heard her yell, he watched as she raced away…..
Hawaii turned out to be just what they needed.
They got closer.
They learned how to trust each other more than they did before.
They spent their days doing the things they had never done before.
Their evenings were spent siteseeing and eating at the best restaurants.
Their nights were spent in each others arms.
Hawaii was just what they needed….
Brenda and Jason are on a plane headed back to Port Charles.
Jason was being quieter than normal.
It was obvious that something was on his mind.
She didn't ask, because she had a feeling he would never tell her.
Maybe she didn't want to know?
She sometimes forgot that he was in the mob too.
He was different than Sonny.
Sonny was mob all the time.
Jason never talked about anything.
He didn't even dress like he was in the mob.
She really hoped he would leave one day.
He didn't belong in that world.
She decided to just take a nap to past the time, it was obvious he wasn't interested in talking.
It didn't take her long to fall asleep, she was exhausted.
She felt like she needed a vacation after the vacation.
Jason woke her up when they were close to landing.
She stretched. "Why does it feel like I just closed my eyes?"
She buckled up and yawned. "Will you carry me? I don't think I can walk."
He grinned. "I could but it might look weird."
"So, I am so tired."
"We'll be home in a little while."
"Jason, are you ok?"
"Yes, why do you ask?"
"Because you were so quiet when we boarded the plane."
"Was I?"
"Yes, you were."
He leaned over and kissed her forehead. "I apologize."
"Did you have a good time?"
He nodded. "I had the best time."
"Are you lying?"
"Brenda, no. I wish we could've stayed forever."
She smiled. "As you have said on numerous occasions, forever is a long time."
"Sometimes it isn't long enough."
She grinned. "Well, you definitely had a good time."
He laughed…..
When they made it home it was late.
They showered and got into bed.
Brenda snuggled up against him. "I am so tired, but it was so much fun."
"It was great."
"It was the best vacation that I have ever been on. We didn't just shop, eat, and hang out on the beach. We actually did some amazing things."
"I'm happy you enjoyed yourself. That was the goal."
She closed her eyes. "I did. It was wonderful."
Jason was tired but he couldn't sleep.
He knew more than likely Sonny was in town now.
He was taking a really big chance staying at Brenda's, but maybe not.
Sonny knew Jason and Brenda were on good terms now.
He also knew he went away with her.
She had more than one bedroom, Sonny would never think he was lying next to her.
Her head on his chest.
His arms holding her close.
Sonny's best friend
Sonny's girl.
He kissed the top of her head.
Brenda looked up at him. "I thought you had fallen asleep."
"Why haven't you?"
"In a minute. Jason, what's wrong?"
"Nothing."
"I don't believe you. Is this too much for you?"
"Brenda, don't be crazy."
"I'm not being crazy. I am being honest. Is it?"
"Let's just go to sleep, because I feel an argument coming."
"Jason, I am asking a question. I just don't want you to feel trapped."
"Trapped?"
"Yes, Jason, trapped. I would never say anything if you are worried. You can walk away."
"Brenda, just be quiet."
"Don't tell me to be quiet."
Jason really didn't feel like arguing. "Ok, whatever."
Ok, Jason, whatever."
She moved off him and onto her own pillow.
He raised his head. "Brenda?"
She closed her eyes. "I am going to sleep."
Jason sighed. "Brenda, I don't want you to be angry."
"I'm not angry, Jason. Go to sleep."
He moved closer. "Not with you angry."
"I am not angry."
"Yes, you are."
She opened her eyes. "What's wrong? Just tell me. I can handle it."
"It's not you."
That was the truth. It wasn't.
"Is it your work?"
Jason knew he had to lie or this was not going to end. "Yes, I just have a couple of things on my mind."
She didn't believe a word he was saying.
She decided to let it go….for now.
"How can I help you feel better?"
"Don't be angry."
"I'm not."
"Brenda, you were angry."
"Ok, I'm sorry, I was a little angry. I overacted. I do that a lot."
She leaned over and kissed him. "Let's just go to sleep."
He pulled her closer. "Ok…."
It's the next morning.
Jason is sitting in bed with Brenda straddling him.
She kissed his forehead and moved down to his lips.
Her hips moving back and forward.
His hands cupping her rear
Minutes before…..
Jason stretched and open his eyes.
He looked to his right, Brenda was gone.
He heard the water running.
She was in the bathroom.
He got out of bed, walked over, and opened the curtains.
He stepped away from the window, realizing that it was probably not a good idea to be standing in Brenda's bedroom window.
He walked back over to the bed and sat down.
He wondered when Sonny was going to make an appearance.
Maybe he wasn't back in town yet?
Jason's mind was so occupied, he didn't even notice Brenda walking out of the bathroom wearing nothing.
She crawled across the bed and straddled him. "Good morning."
He looked down. "What happen to your clothes?"
"I lost them."
She reached down and slipped her hand inside his boxers. "You should lose yours. Better yet, keep them on. I have what I need."
She pulled him out and kissed him passionately, slipping her tongue into his mouth.
She came prepared.
She already had a condom in her hand.
She opened it and slipped it on him.
Jason gripped her rear, lifted her briefly, and pushed her down onto him.
Brenda broke the kiss.
Her eyes widen. "Crap, Jason, the condom broke."
She was just about to jump off but Jason tightened his grip.
"Don't move."
"But…Jason."
He kissed her. "But nothing. We are monogamous. We have both been tested." He latched onto her neck. "You feel so good. You are still on birth control right?"
He pushed up inside her.
She moaned and nodded.
He kissed her. "It's fine."
He lifted her briefly, ripped off the condom, and pushed her back down onto him….
It's later and Jason is preparing to leave.
He was going to pick up Jack and Sam from his grandparents' house.
They were both really anxious to see them.
Jason wanted Brenda to come with him, but she was still tired from the trip, and plus she needed to unpack.
Brenda walked him to the door. "Jason, please don't take all day."
He laughed. "I won't, but you know my grandmother is going to want to talk for at least an hour."
"I know, just come back as soon as you can."
Jason grabbed the doorknob, but paused before opening it.
He turned and kissed her.
She giggled and pulled away. "Jason, stop. We have plenty of time for that. Hurry! Go get my babies."
He looked at her.
Plenty of time
She placed her hand on her hips. "Jason?"
"I'm going."
He opened the door and preceded to walk down the stairs.
Brenda yelled. "Don't drive too fast!"
"I won't."
She closed the door.
Jason walked up to his truck, unlocked the door, and looked around.
He could not stop thinking about Sonny.
He pulled out his phone and dialed his number.
*no answer*
Maybe he was still in New York?
He looked back at the house.
At that moment he knew he had to tell Brenda.
He didn't want her to be blindsided….not again.
She deserved to know.
He saw first hand what she went through after Sonny didn't show up.
He couldn't keep this from her.
It wasn't right.
He couldn't do that to her.
He would talk to her when he got back..
He got into his truck and left….
A couple of hours later….
Brenda was busy unpacking when she heard someone pull up in the driveway.
She got excited. "Jack! Sam!"
She placed the clothes down and somehow managed to make it out of her room without tripping on all of her things.
She ran down the stairs and snatched opened the door. "What-"
All of the color ran out of her face.
It was not Jason with Jack and Sam.
"Hello, Brenda."
It was Sonny.
