The Days of Jackie's Life

by Simmian7

Jacqueline came to Salem and began a whirlwind of epic moments. Her connection to one of Salem's most infamous figure, Stefano DiMera, was just the start of it all.

6. Dramatic Lifestyle Changes

Jailbait

My new home. I stared at the cell around me and sighed before plopping onto the semi-uncomfortable cot. Such a drastic change coming from a mansion and a soft bed to...this place... Luckily, the layout had the cot nestled into one corner of the cell. I leaned back against the wall, looking at the other-facing away from the bars. And from there, I did not move.

Aaron got clearance to see Jackie. Even with everything going on with Dyllan, he wanted to come see her and bring her a present. He got the OK from Roman to give it to her. "Jackie..."

I recognized the voice, but didn't turn around. True, I had made him practically promise to visit me here. But having it actually happening made me feel much more ashamed and unable to face him. I mumbled, "...hi...", not caring if he could hear it or not.

Aaron nodded to the guard, who unlocked the cell and let Aaron enter. The guard left the door open and sat in a chair right by the cell door. Slowly, Aaron walked closer to Jackie and put his hand on her shoulder. "Hey, I came to see you. The least you can do is talk to me." Aaron grinned.

I turned my head slightly, enough for him to see that I had been crying on and off since arriving here. "What do I say?" I stared down at my hands in my lap. "You're the first visitor."

Aaron saw the torment Jackie is going through and saw she has been crying. He shrugged. "That your glad I came?" He raised the forgotten present and gave it to her. "I got you something to replace your old journal. Dad couldn't get it back for you."

"Oh, god...Aaron...I am...I just..." I shook my head and managed to stifle my crying to hold a conversation with him. "I'm sorry..." I put a hand to my mouth when I saw what he brought for me. "Oh, Aaron, thank you..." I pulled him into a hug and then let go. Sitting back against the wall, I touched the book with my fingers. "I don't want the other one back...it's filled with entries about..." I shook my head again, not wanting to verbalize something now painful.

"Your welcome." Aaron hugged her back then sat next to her against the wall. "It's OK, I know..." He whispered to her. "Some things are better left in the past. It's easier to deal with." Aaron smiled at Jackie. "So, are they feeding you well?"

"Yeah." I agreed with him about leaving the past behind. "The food's ok." I stared up at the ceiling. "Hey...maybe you can get your dad to talk them into letting me into the kitchen sometime."

"Hey, that's a great idea." Aaron nodded. "The other prison...guys... will be thanking you until the sun doesn't shine."

"Even if they know what I'm in for?" I blinked at Aaron. I was silent for a moment before speaking again. "So...how are you?"

Aaron bit his lip, thinking. "Look, I know you poisoned John... But, I also know you would not have done that on your own. So does dad and Billie. I'm sure they will make sure the other inmates won't find out." Aaron ran his fingers through his hair. "OK. Oh hey, did you know I'm a new daddy?" He asked excitedly.

I shrugged, "Yeah...ok...thanks." But then he told me some good news and I finally smiled. "Oh really...wow...gosh, congrats, Aaron!" I pulled him into another hug. "Gosh, I wish I could do something special for you and your new son..."

"Thanks." Aaron gave her a small smile. "That's OK, I know your not in position to do anything. And anyway, what you did the other night was special..." Aaron took a picture out his wallet. "This is Dyllan."

I took the picture from him and gazed down at the cutest lil baby I've ever seen. I caught a bit of Aaron's excitement. "Dyllan? That is such an adorable name for such an adorable baby!" I hand the picture back to him and reach next to me to grab my new journal. Then I stood up and walked over to the measly table on the opposite wall.

"Thank you. His full name is Dyllan Micheal Hollingsworth Johnson. Big name for such a little guy, huh?" Aaron put the picture into his wallet while watching Jackie move about the room. "So how are you doing?"

"Heh, yeah...you'll have a mouthful to yell when he's in trouble. I mean...wait...he won't ever get in trouble." I gave a sheepish smile at him over my shoulder. Then I turned back to see where I was placing my journal. "I guess I'm doing..." I began to answer as I turned around to walk back to the bed. Suddenly a wave of dizziness passed over me. I only managed to clutch my head before feeling my knees give out. I instantly crumbled to the ground in a heap.

Aaron rushed to Jackie before she hit the ground catching and gently laid her down. Looking around, he saw the guard has left his post. Oh, great! "Jackie, Jackie. Wake up! Someone help me!" Then he turned back to Jackie, feeling a pulse and see her chest rise and fall, he knew she did not need CPR. "Jackie, wake up, baby!" I wanted to respond to his shout, but I couldn't. Aaron sounded so far away from me. For a second I felt close enough to open my eyes-and I think I managed to flutter them a second-but then I felt myself going out again. And then...nothing...

Billie was conveniently nearby when she heard Aaron shouting. She waddled in as quickly as possible. "What's going on?" She saw Jackie and rushed to her and Aaron's side. "I'll call 911 Aaron keeping talking to her and cover her with a blanket but don't move her!"

They arrived at the hospital... The paramedics gave Kayla Jackie's stats then left. "I'm sorry Aaron, but you'll have to wait out here while I examine her." Then she took Jackie into the exam room leaving Aaron in the lobby. Billie is in the waiting room. She told the nurse to let Kayla know she's there, just to guard and then sat down in a chair.

I groggily came to realizing that I wasn't in jail. "...where...?" I was still majorly dizzy, but panic set in. I struggled to get up to see where I was. A sharp pain shot through my head and I collapsed back down onto the bed.

"You're in the hospital, Jackie. You fainted." Kayla explained as she patted Jackie's hand. "You need to lay back and take it easy."

I turned my head, seeing Kayla. "Hospital? What?" Then I wondered if this was Stefano's doing. "Oh, god...HE brought me here!" Angrily I looked at Kayla, "Your husband said he'd protect me...but he didn't...!" I began to struggle and cry for freedom.

"Shhhh, Shhhhhhh."Kayla soothed Jackie. "I don't know who 'he' is, but Aaron came with you in the ambulance. You are safe Jackie. Billie is right outside. No one is going to get you." Kayla hoped her words would settle Jackie down.

I calmed down a bit. "How did I get here?" Then her mentioning of Aaron registered with me. "Aaron is here?!" I turned but didn't see him. "Where?"

"Billie called the EMT's. They brought you here. He's in the lobby with Billie waiting to find out how you are."

A nurse came in. "Dr. Johnson, we got the results back from the tests."

"Thank you nurse." Kayla glanced at the chart. With out looking directly at Jackie, the nurse left.

"Tests?" I remained quiet, watching the nurse walk in and then right back out. "What does it say? Why am I here?"

"You fainted in your cell when Aaron was visiting you." Kayla explained to Jackie a second time. "We had to do some blood work while you were still out to find out why you fainted... and after looking at them, I can tell you why it is you collapsed."

I sat up, alert, "AND...?"

Kayla didn't want to be the one to tell Jackie the results. Not if what Steve told her about Jackie and Stefano were true. But, as Jackie's doctor, she had a responsibility to tell her. "Jackie... the results show you are pregnant. About five weeks to be exact."

I went pale, "I'm ...what..." Pregnant. That word echoed in my mind. I gulped. Oh the world is gonna hate me now. Slowly, I turned to Kayla, "...ok..." I then stared down at my stomach in silence.

Kayla licked her lips nervously. "Jackie, I am your doctor and as a doctor, I also counsel my patients. Anything you and I talk about is under the doctor patient confidentiality clause. I know this pregnancy comes to you as a surprise." Kayla hated this part of the counseling. "Are you wanting to keep the baby?"

"Yes." I didn't hesitate. I didn't want 'killing a baby' added to the list of crimes I had done. But then I wondered what was going to happen now. "I'm not the only one that will want him...or her...though." A tear slid down my face. This was something I wanted to share with Stefano...I dreamed of raising a family with him. Now...that will never happen.

Kayla sat on the stool provided for her. "You mean, Stefano, don't you?" Kayla asked her sadly, not only for her involvement with Stefano, but she was sincerely sorry Stefano used this poor girl.

I nodded. "I was hoping that if I ever had a child, I could give it the happy family I never had." I wiped at my eyes, failing to dry them.

Kayla gave Jackie a tissue to dry her eyes. "Babies are precious beings. I'm sure you will give him or her so much love you'll think you'll burst at times." Kayla smiled.

Aaron ventured to Jackie's room and knocked on the door and saw Jackie awake. "Can I come in?"

I took the tissue from Kayla and after hearing a knock, I quickly and semi-successfully dried my eyes. "That's probably Aaron. If it is, he can come in."

Kayla nodded and patted Jackie's hand. "I'll let him in and go talk to Billie so the two of you can talk." She said this to let Jackie know she approved of Aaron's decision to befriend her. She went to the door, letting Aaron in and left herself.

"Hey..." Aaron smiled. "So, is everything all right?"

"I'll live." I then sighed, "I'm fine, but I'm not..." I scrunched up the sheets in my fists. "Aaron...I'm sorry I fainted on you. I did it...because I'm pregnant." I had to say it quickly, knowing that if I waited for the right moment there would never be a right moment.

"Hey, it's ok... I'm just glad I was there to catch you." Aaron looked at Jackie in bewilderment. "Pregnant? Oh, Jackie..." He slumped to the stool Kayla recently vacated.

"I know...I know...you think it was stupid of me..." I side glanced at Aaron. "I'm keeping the baby."

"No no... it's not that! I didn't know if you were glad or not?" Aaron hurriedly answers. "You are? That's great!" Aaron smiled. "It's great news, isn't it?"

Another tear fell, "Yeah...despite the situation..." I manage a smile behind my tears. "Now...I'm the one that's pregnant...I'm going to be a mother..." I can now truly understand the pride that Aaron feels about Dyllan.

"Yeah, a baby kinda changes the way you think. I mean, you are making the decisions that will affect another life, not just your own."

I looked at Aaron, "I know you have a family of your own...but this is Stefano's child too...and I'm going...I'm going to need all the help I can get to project my baby from him. I won't let him or her get caught in the web like I have."

"Jackie, if I can help you and your baby, you know, I'll do it. All you have to do is name it and if it's in my power, I'll do it."

I smiled, "Thank you. This really means a lot to me." But shortly after, I just simply broke down again.

"Your welcome. I mean it, you know..." Aaron got misty eyed when Jackie broke down and held her hand. "You know, I kinda feel like an uncle or something..."

Now I was laughing and crying. It took a moment to reign it in. "You don't have to go that far." I sniffled. Then I blinked, "Oh, gosh...where am I gonna stay now? Surely they can't be cruel enough to send me back to jail." I then slunk back into the pillows. "But then again...they might accuse me of getting pregnant on purpose to get out of jail..."

"I know I don't have to... I don't know why I said it... I guess cuz I see how much alike you and I are and it took mom and dad having faith in me to show me how much I was worth." He shook his head. "I'm sure they will move you somewhere else. They wouldn't keep you in jail." Aaron laughed. "C'mon now... they won't say that. Give them a chance, ok?"

I nodded, "I will." All of this just finally started sinking in. "WOW..." We talked a bit more and then he left when I started feeling tired.

---

Bun In The Oven

I flickered thru the limited channels on the hospital tv. There was too much on my mind and I couldn't focus enough on any set program to enjoy it. So through the channels I went. I paused for a moment and looked out the window. I really wish I was out there enjoying the weather. But instead, once I get out of here...I'll only sit in a jail cell...pregnant...and alone. I took a deep breath followed by a deep sigh as I shifted in the hospital bed to find a more comfortable spot.

As always, Stefano was able to find out Jackie was incarcerated at the Salem jail. He went there to bond her out, only to find out she had no bond, but he also found out she was taken to Salem Hospital. So, he next had his driver take him there. Once outside Jackie's door, he found a guard outside Jackie's room. It didn't take much to deter the young rookie guard away from his post. Then, he was free to enter Jackie's room, which he did. "Hello, Jacqueline..." He spoke her name to call her attention to him and did not mean it to be menacing.

I whipped my gaze to the door, having Stefano fill my gaze. I was unable to hid my startled expression upon seeing him. "Steffy..." Was all I managed to say. I was torn...part of me hoped that he'd take me in his arms and tell me that everything was not as I now thought and that I would be going home, while the other part was too scared to really say much.

Stefano slowly made his way to Jackie's bedside, taking his time. He settled in the chair available for the guests of the patients there, crossed his leg over his knee, making himself at home... like he was meant to be there and was not worried the guard would be back soon. "I heard you took ill. How are you feeling?" He knew Jackie was not ill, but she was pregnant. He was giving her a chance to make amends for what she did at Billie's. Stefano looked around the small room. "This is quite... quaint. It's about the size of your bathroom." He almost said jail cell, but changed his mind. Why am I giving her second and third chances? He asked himself.

My eyes followed him until he sat next to me and started speaking. Then I turned and focused on my knees. "...I'm...I'm ok..." I wanted to add, now that you're here, but I wasn't sure if I should even think that. He mentioned my bathroom in his mansion and I started to cry. But still, I couldn't find my voice. And oddly, I yearned for him to kiss. Kiss me...and then kill me...AFTER I have his child. Upon thinking that I began to feel uncomfortable from having to contain myself.

Stefano regarded Jackie with interest. Before she would have literally jumped in his arms and jumped him, too. But, now, she seemed to be waiting for him to make the 1st move. If that was her intention, he will do as she wanted. "That's good. I never wanted you to be in any pain. And the baby... how is he?" He nodded at Jackie, but still has not moved closer to her. She had a lot to answer before he would take her in his arms again... if he ever did.

I started to nod, but completely froze when he mentioned the baby. OH God, I'm so dead. On the other hand, I was aware that he'd know. My fingers twitched. "How do you know it's a he...what if HE is a SHE?" My voice was low, but it was my first full comment to him. Slowly I managed enough courage to look at him.

Stefano smiled a knowing smile at Jackie. "I don't... don't people usually call unborn babies 'he'?" Stefano crossed his arms across his chest. "But, I have a feeling he will be a 'he'.

So do I... But outwardly I shrugged, "I don't know. I think it depends on what the parents are hoping for." I gazed at him directly, knowing it was useless to hide things from him. Hell, he probably knew of my recent dealings with Billie and Steve.

"A son will be a good heir to the Dimera name." He spoke deliberately, letting her know his plans for his son. All of his other children betrayed him and their name. Except for his nephew, Andre'... and he died at the hands of Shane Donovan. But now, he will be given another chance to do things correctly.

That prompted me to boldly speak out some of my feelings, "OUR son, Steffy. Since I first met you, I wanted to raise a family WITH you. I don't want the baby to live fully or half parentless."

"Only you can ensure the child will live half parentless." Stefano leaned in closer to Jackie. "You know Jacqueline, so far your behavior has told me otherwise." His threat was there, hanging in the air.

I just blinked at him. Then I placed a hand on my head and mumbled, "God, I just...I can't think straight now..." That lost feeling washed over me-or was it dizziness again. I willed myself not to faint again. Stefano might take it the wrong way. "I just want to get through the next eight months with my sanity intact." And you with me...I want that...but then I don't... Secretly I held my other hand poised ready to press the nurse button if things got overwhelming here.

Stefano saw Jackie was distraught. A part of him wanted to console her, but another part was still angry with her. "I can understand why you are confused, right now. After all, you have been talking to Steve Johnson and company, haven't you?" Stefano smirked. "That's right, I know that, too. Bart found your packages at the food court and reported back to me. His loyalty lies with me."

I visibly flinched when he mentioned Steve and the others. And mentioning Bart (and his loyalty) cut through me like a knife. Angrily, and possibly foolishly, I retaliated, "I was...AM loyal to you Steffy! I wanted nothing more than to be the object of your undying love-to be with you for the rest of my life. But the last woman that thought she had that...was murdered...taken from her son...who hides in fear of you. I don't want that for me or the baby." I stopped, needing to catch my breath. I could feel my heart racing and I felt sweaty and nauseated. Yet, I hoped that somewhere in my rant, he understood that I desired to rule the empire WITH him (and maybe without him?).

As Jackie talked about Ellen Hawk, Benji's mom, His eyes narrowed. "Ellen was not loyal. She let others influence her... instill a fear of me, which didn't have to be there. She decided to take my son from me and leave him alone in the Orient for anyone to kidnap him!" "And do you think you showed your undying love when you spoke with Steven and Billie? Remember what I told you... actions speak louder than words? Your actions spoke volumes to me about your undying love for me!"

My eyes widened when he shared with me of what Benji's mother, Ellen, had done. God no...the same thing I am doing?! But then my thoughts went to war with me. Actions speak louder than words. He's done nothing but make love to you, Jackie, time and again. You wanted a child with him. He gave you one. How can you deny him now!? And what of Steve...Billie...Aaron...they are willing to be your friend, Jackie! You've done them wrong, but still they will fight FOR you...AND the baby! Don't be a fool and choose friendship over love, Jackie. And not just love, Steffy will give you protection, wealth, power...and a family! I visibly shook as each side yelled their arguments at me in my head. "I want a family..." I whispered in response to the last part of my thoughts.

Steve picked Jackie up some lunch at the pub she needed to keep her strength up with the baby coming and everything. He knew it was going to be hard enough having to raise the baby on her own. When Steve got to Jackie's room. He saw the guard was gone from his post. "What the hell?! Jackie! Steve bursted into the room. "Jackie, are you alright?!" Steve's demeanor changed from one of worry to one of hate when he saw Stefano sitting at Jackie's bedside. "What the hell are you doing here DiMera?! Get out! NOW!"

Stefano did not flinch, but continued to sit. "As father of Jackie's baby, I deserve to be here. In fact, Steven, I don't believe Jackie is in need of all of the hostility you've brought into this room." I blinked from Stefano to Steve, partly glad to have Steve indirectly save the day. The other part of me was angered by the intrusion, just as I was about to reach for Stefano and draw him close to me so I could kiss him and make him forget of his anger of what I'd done. I said nothing as the two men talked.

Steve chuckled. "Do you really think Jackie is going to let you be a part of that baby's life so that you can raise the child to be evil? You're crazier than I thought! Jackie don't him get to you. You know exactly what his plans for your baby will be. You don't want that do you? I might have known you would get past the guard but Roman will deal with him. Now I'm only going to tell you this one more time...leave!"

Stefano let out a belly laugh. "Steven, Steven... I am not doing anyone any harm, sitting here visiting with Jacqueline and rejoicing in our news. But, let's let her decide if I leave or go." Stefano turns to Jackie. "Which will it be? Do I stay or go. Just remember... actions..."

I didn't look at either of them as I shifted into a serious expression while I stood shakily on my feet. I had thought of a response that just might please them both. I grabbed Stefano by the hand and pulled him with me to the door. When I reached it I opened it, accidentally looking at Stefano with a look that I was still vulnerable to him.

UGH! I HATE that laugh Sometimes I wish I wasn't an officer of the law then we'd see who's laughing. That bastard! "Oh my God were you just threatening her? See Jackie, is this the life you want. He doesn't care about you. The only thing he wants is your baby and raise him or her to do god knows what!"

Stefano let Jackie pull him to the door. As soon as she looked at him, he knew she was still in his control. He knew if he kissed her in front of Steve, he would have her body and soul. But, he couldn't do that. Totally ignoring Steve's rants, he tells Jackie, "You know the type of life you will lead. All you have to do is say the word and it's yours... all yours."

I shook my head at him, "Steffy...you know the only thing I want...desire from you. Your love." I glanced back at Steve for a second. "But it's just an illusion isn't it?" I started crying, feeling shaky and visibly swaying for being on my feet too soon. "I want honest to goodness true love, Steffy..." And not just from anyone...

I'm going to be sick all this talk about love and desire for him is disgusting me Help! "Jackie, no no. Jackie look at me. Ellen Hawk...remember Aaron told you what happened to her. This man is NOT capable of love Jackie! He does not know what love is!"

"I think this conversation should be conducted in private, don't you?" Stefano grabbed Jackie by her waist to keep her from falling to the floor. "Let's get you back in bed." He helped her walk back to bed then waited as she reluctantly climbed back in. "Doesn't that feel better?" Then he turned to Steve. "I told Jacqueline all about Ellen. I didn't keep any secrets from her." Stefano reached for his right breast pocket and pulled out a cigar. "I hear congratulations are in order, Grandpa Steven."

Feeling his hands on me stirred buried emotions and memories. But the need to get back into bed took priority at the moment. I nodded at Stefano once I was settled. "I don't feel so much dizzy now. Thanks." But being pulled between Steve and Stefano, I was feeling emotionally drained. Under other circumstances, I would have smiled at Stefano congratulating Steve about Dyllan. But I was in no mood for cheer.

"That private conversation is never going to happen because you will not get anywhere near her or that baby. I will do whatever I have to, to protect them from you! Then she knows you will kill her! She knows she isn't safe!" Steve stopped in his tracks and looked at Stefano in shock. "How did you know? You stay away from grandson do you hear me?!"

After congratulating Steve, Stefano turned his attention to Jackie handing her a glass of ice water with a straw. "Is this what you've been rambling on about? I will never hurt Jacqueline or my... our child!" Stefano laughed. "How did I know Jacqueline was in the hospital after fainting while in your jail?" He answered Steve with a question of his own. "Now who is threatening who? All I did was congratulate you. Like always, you always think the worst of me, Steven."

"Steve...please..." I motioned for him to calm down. Then I graciously accepted the drink from Stefano. I drank half if not most of the water in no time flat. Again, Stefano's comment made me feel confusion. At this point, I just wanted them both to leave.

"I'm sure you told Ellen the same thing and look where she is now. You know what I meant. Don't play stupid with me Dude. How did you know about my grandson? I wasn't threatening you YET! Maybe it's because nothing you do is EVER out of genuine kindness! You have an agenda for everything!" Quickly, Steve turned to her. "Jackie, he is not even supposed to be here and when that rookie gets back I'm sending him straight to Roman and Abe."

"Not much happens I don't know about." Stefano replied to Steve in answering him. "That's right I do have an agenda. For our child to be born healthy and strong." And to Jackie he urged, "Can't you see it's you who she doesn't want here?" Stefano laughed. "That idiot is one of Salem's finest?"

"He's not an idiot, Steffy..." I sighed and pinched my nose, pushing the exhaustion aside. No chance that I was going to fall asleep with them both still here. I reached out for Stefano's hand, "Promise me...don't hurt Dyllan..."

"Uhh huhh like I believe you! What? I haven't done anything but promise to protect her and I'm going to do just that. Believe me I don't want to be in this room! You are getting on my nerves you psycho! He is not going to be for long! If he hurts Dyllan..." Steve wanted to say he would kill him but he held back.

"Now why would I want to hurt Dyllan?" Stefano asked Jackie. No, it's not him I will hurt. But, I will rip their family apart just like Steve is trying to rip mine to pieces. "And I thank you for doing that. But, your services are no longer needed." Stefano waved him away with his words. It must be the hormones or exhaustion, because I giggled at the way Stefano waved Steve off like he did to so many servants.

"Why would you want to hurt Dyllan? I can think of many reasons but you will never get your hands on him!" He crossed his arms. "Excuse me but I am not going anywhere. Look I do NOT take orders from you! I would die first! My name is Steve not Bart or Rolf!"

That's what you think, dear Steven. Even as we speak, my plan has been put into motion. "Then, we will be in each others company while Jacqueline is here at the hospital. Because I'm not going anywhere, either." With that, Stefano sits down in the only chair next to Jackie's bed. "You aren't taking her back to jail, are you? You of all people should know how hard it is on a woman to be pregnant and imprisoned."

I had been wondering that myself. It was still unnerving that Stefano knew I was in jail, though I should have known better still. "Am I...going back?" I meekly asked Steve, itching to reach out for Stefano's hand for comfort.

Steve didn't know how to answer since he couldn't tell Jackie in front of Stefano that he and Billie are working on getting her in a safe house. "Jackie, you know your fate is out of my hands now. I have no choice I have to take you back." Steve was hoping Jackie knew he was saying that to cover things up.

Stefano knew what he was doing. Like Steve said, he always had an agenda and Steve walked into his plan the way a mouse walks into the kitchen for a piece of cheese once the cat leaves. Stefano laughed to himself thinking about the saying his own momma used all those years ago. "See, Jackie. That's how it works. They get what they want from you then they toss you aside when they are done. They don't care what happens to you or your baby." He patted her hand, knowingly. Stefano didn't care about Jackie as much as he cared about the baby she was carrying. But as long as she was in Steve Johnson and Billie Reed's hands, his access to his baby was hindered. All he had to do was put a seed of doubt in Jackie's mind... and he would have her right where he wanted her. In his mansion.

I looked Stefano in the eye, "And do you truly care?" I was dead serious when I dared him, "Dimostrilo, Steffy. Se lo baciate e lo significate… andrei felice a casa con voi."

Steve stared at Stefano almost with the look of death. "You think I want to take her back there? No I don't! I hate the idea of her spending a pregnancy in jail! The only thing that comforts me is knowing she and the baby will be safe from you! Yeah she is having your baby but it sure didn't have anything to do with love now did it? You planned it!"

Stefano tries to hide his surprise at Jackie's boldness in her request. He glances sideways at Steve, who was staring him down as well. "Sapere che non è possibile. mi Bella." Stefano laughs heartily, looking straight at Jackie. "If anyone planned this pregnancy, it definitely wasn't me."

Steve's outburst caught my attention then. "Steve...if I have to go back to jail...then I will go." But then I frowned as Stefano's reply to me sank in. I sighed, "It's true...I was the one who wanted the baby...with him. He was too hung up on acting as a father to me." I only glanced directly at Stefano for a second and then looked at Steve.

"I know but it's no place for a baby." Steve turned from Jackie to Stefano after Jackie said she wanted the baby the looked back at her. "Jackie, you may have wanted the baby but he took advantage of your vulnerability your feeling. Acting like a father to you? Jackie please don't cover up for him. He wants you to think that this your fault."

Steve's outburst about him not caring at all about Jackie made Stefano very angry. "You do not know anything about my relationship with Jacqueline. When I met her, she was a fiore fragile. And I treated her as such. Anything she did for me, she did of her own free will!"

I gasped and grunted, "...ok...can you both TRY not to escalate into shouting at each other?! Please!?" I gave them both a worried look.

Steve shook his head. "I do not think I want to know. I know what happened I don't need to hear the gory details." He shivered. "I'm sorry Jackie."

Stefano's voice softened. "I'm sorry, mi bella." Stefano kept his voice low, but it's still hard as nails as he talked to Steve. "That's good because I'm not sharing any."

I gave them both a soft smile, "Thank you." Then I sighed. "Steffy, posso comunicare prego con Steve da solo per un momento? I promise, no funny business." I raised at eye brow at Stefano.

"Si, I have some... business to attend to." He leaned down and gave her a kiss on the forehead. "Take care of yourself and our quello piccolo." Turning to Steve, he said, "I'm sure we will be seeing one another, again?" Then he left Jackie's room.

"I hope not too soon." Good riddance "Jackie, I need you to listen to me you are not going back to jail. I have been wanting to talk to you but I was waiting for him to leave. First I need to make a phone call." Steve took out his cell phone and called Roman and told him about the guard who left his post and to send someone reliable please. "Now, Billie and I are trying to arrange it where you will go someplace safe instead of jail."

Stefano left me with a simple kiss on the forehead. Once the door was close and as Steve talked on the phone, I got up and moved to look out the window. When Steve was done with his call, I moved back to the bed. "Someplace...safe? How can I trust this after what just happened!? You said I'd be safe in jail...you even posted a no bond on me. But He showed up there...and then here...so easily. You failed not only to protect my baby...but my heart. I've worked extremely close with Stefano...so with what I know of how he works, I was foolish to trust you." I crossed my arms angrily, but didn't look away.

Jackie's words hurt. How could she be foolish to trust him. It wasn't his fault Stefano got past the rookie cop. That wasn't supposed to happen. "Jackie, I'm trying how many chances have I given you? The least you could do is give me one. You of all people should know dealing with the likes of Stefano DiMera is not easy baby. You were not foolish to trust me and I did not fail you, give me a chance! You are letting his words get to you again. Don't do that! Billie and I are working on getting you in a safe house."

I dropped my arms to my sides, letting go of only a bit of my anger. "Sorry. It's just that...being so close to him...it's so hard to keep my head on straight. It was REALLY REALLY hard not to hug him...or kiss him...or..." I shook my head and gave Steve a sad expression. "Ok...so...this safe house...do you think the judge or whoever will ok the move?"

Steve was sad because Stefano still had this strong hold on her and it wasn't going to be easy to break it. He wished there was someway she could just forget him. "Jackie, this is exactly why I didn't want him anywhere near you. He still has this hold on you. I can see it. We think so. It will be explained to the judge that you are in danger."

Nervously, I lowered my head and rubbed my upper arm. "But I'm trying..." I raise my head and look at Steve, "...I hope you can see that..."

"I do see it but I also see the way you look at him."

I just stared at Steve. Just as I was about to speak again, my stomach apparently spoke for me. I blushed. "Heh...guess I worked up an appetite trying to maintain peace in this room."

"Well I brought you something from the pub if you would like something to eat?"

I lit up, "Thank you Steve." I opened the box and it smelled delicious. Wait, come to think of it...Steve thought of me and brought me food...but Steffy... I pushed that thought away and took a bite of the meal. "This is delicious." I chewed and swallowed. "So...Dyllan is ok?"

"I see you enjoy the food. That's great. We don't know yet they are still running tests." Steve frowned.

"I hope whatever it is...that everything turns out ok for him and Aaron." I glanced up and saw his frown. "Ok, Stefano's gone...so none of that..." I gave him a smile, showing him what I wanted.

"I know I'm just worried about Dylan." Steve gave a small smile. "Yeah he just has to be ok. Yeah I notice you and Aaron have become good friends." Steve grinned.

I nodded, "Well, now I can say I understand your worries." I dared not to ask if I could see Dyllan. I've never really held a baby before, and here I was going to have one of my own. I blinked in shock upon realizing that.

"Yeah. Jackie, I have heard around Salem that you knew my nephew Eric is this true?"

I visibly twitched at the mention of Eric. Just when I thought it was going to be ok with me and Steve... "I knew OF him." Wait...nephew?! I knew I was in trouble all over again.

"Ok how did you of him?"

"I...uh...I-uh..." I wrung my hands together. "I was told about him." Then I looked at Steve directly, knowing he'd guess who told me.

Steve noticed Jackie seemed nervous. "You never met him face to face before? You can be honest with me."

"No...more like I saw him...from a distance..." I was talking softly, but trying to truthfully answer his questions. "I had no idea he was related to Billie. I didn't know until I saw his picture at her house." I hastily added.

"Jackie, what if I was to tell I heard you were seen talking to Eric about his wedding?"

"Then you heard wrong." I knew he was trying to trick me into the truth. But didn't he know I'd be giving it to him anyway, it might take a bit longer though. "I never talked to him. I was at the restaurant with him though."

Jackie why are you lying to me. "You saw him? Was he sick or anything?"

"No...I took care of that." I was still psyching myself up to just outright tell him. "Actually, he left the restaurant just fine. It was supposed to kick in after."

"What? Jackie, what are you talking about what was supposed to kick in?"

"I spiked his dish." I didn't have to say why I did it, and I dared not mention how Stefano rewarded me that night.

Steve gave Jackie a look of disappointment. "Oh, Jackie, why Eric? He didn't do anything to you all he wanted to do was start his life with Billie and MacKenzie! Jackie open your eyes! This is what DiMera makes you do! Do you know he was just about to adopt Mackenzie?!"

I started crying then, "My eyes are open, Steve. That's why I'm here, with you, and not with him. I'm choosing honesty over love. I'm working to right all the wrong." I fell quiet then aside from sobbing and catching my breath (which I was suddenly having trouble with).

"What Stefano offers you is not love. Yeah he offers his money and power to you but money and power do not mean a damned thing if you do not have love!" Steve saw Jackie was having some trouble catching her breath. He ran into the bathroom and got her a glass of water. "Here drink this, baby."

It was quite painful, until Steve saved the situation with a glass of water. I only managed a few sips. "...Thanks..." I sighed and leaned back, "I seriously hope that you CAN keep him away Steve. I can't deny that if he keeps getting to me...through all of your protection...I won't be able to resist him. And being all pregnant and hormonal, won't help either."

"You ok now? I am not going to lie to you I am extremely angry and disappointed in you but I am keeping the anger at bay be cause yelling at you is not going to help things and 2 I know this is not entirely your fault. I will do the best I can. I know if he gets to you we could lose you." Steve frowned but then he laughed about the pregnant and hormonal comment. "No it doesn't."

I looked at Steve with a 'what the hell' expression when he laughed. "I'm glad you can still laugh about things. I'm lucky I can crack a smile." I knew he was very angry with me. I don't think it would help if I mentioned that I too was very angry with myself.

"Yeah sometimes you have to you know. I don't know where to go from here but I think you know I have to charge you with the murder of Eric Brady. I really don't know how Billie is going to handle this. I think I am angry Billie will be more than angry."

"He's dead?! That wasn't supposed to happen." I was startled and mumbled, "Did Stefano have the ingredients switched without me knowing?"

Steve frowned and nodded. "Yeah he's dead. I would say he died about a week ago. You didn't mean to kill him? If he did have the ingredients switched what does that tell you? He is using you as his scapegoat so he gets off scot free! Damn him!"

I quietly let a few tears fall and felt my heart shattering. My hand went to my stomach and I whispered as I rubbed it, "It's ok, I WON'T let him get you...not now...not after THIS."

Steve was more angry with Stefano than with Jackie. He wanted to kill him and if he wasn't one of Salem's most prominent detectives he just might. Steve could see Jackie was crying. "He won't get him not if i can help it!" Steve walked over and gave Jackie a hug.

I wasn't expecting the hug, but didn't shy away from it. After a few seconds, my hands found their way around Steve's midsection as I returned the hug. Then I let go, "Thanks...I...I really needed that." I smiled meekly at him. Oddly, I felt really relieved to have the thing about Eric out in the open. It was like a weight against my chest. But now...I wasn't sure what to do.

"You're welcome. I just have to convince Billie that you didn't mean to kill him. It's going to be easy but Billie has a good head on her shoulders and she know how Stefano is. Damn, I didn't have to charge you with murder! I have a question for you. Would you like to help us nail him for all he has done to you?"

I looked away, but still heard him as he talked about Billie. She's really going to hate me. But I was drawn back to Steve when he asked me of my willingness. "I...I don't know..." But then I thought about it. "No...I mean yes...I think I'm ready for this madness to end. I practically wore myself out trying to get him to love me, doing bad things for him. Now...I have to claw my way FROM him."

"Hmm I don't know what we are going to do yet because first I have to break the news to Billie and then try to calm her down and make her look at this rationally. Wow, me Steven Earl Johnson the voice of reason? After I do that we will go from there but first I need to read you your right's I know you know them but's it procedure." Steve red Jackie her rights. "I'm sorry about this too I don't want to do it but it's a murder charge." Steve took Jackie's one wrist and cuffed it to the bed rail. He called Roman to let him know he has charged Jackie with murder. It is now mandatory for a guard to be there. "If you need to use the bathroom just have the nurse get the guard to uncuff you. I'm sorry." Steve frowned. "I will talk to Roman when I get back to the station.

I struggled to hold the tears back as he read me my rights. And then I watched helplessly as he handcuffed me to the bed. "If this is what must be done...I'd rather be sitting in a jail cell." I stared at the cuffs.

Steve sighed. "I know I wish I didn't have to do that."

I glance up at Steve, "What's done is done...and cannot be undone." At least I could still eat, so I went back to finishing my meal he brought me. "If Stefano shows up again, then it will be impossible for me to hide."

"The guards will be under strict orders not to let him in. He will be given a list of who can visit you and he can't. Jackie, just hang in there I'm hoping this won't be long but with the murder charge I hope this doesn't change the judge's mind about the safe house."

"That list is going to be awfully short, Steve." I raise up a hand and hold up five fingers. "Let's see... you, Kayla, Billie, Aaron...wow not enough to fill even one hand."

"I forgot you have no family here but the purpose of this is to keep Stefano, Rolf, Bart or any other DiMera associates out. I know John is in the hospital but he will eventually get out so add him to who is not allowed."

I was nodding in agreement with Steve until he mentioned John. I shook, terrified, "He's here in the hospital." A panicked expression crossed my features. "I can't stay here then. He will find out I'm here." I was feeling nauseated again upon remembering feeling that mans' hands on me when he attacked me back at the house in Rome. "You don't know what John is capable of..." But I do. I made him that way. This must be my punishment for THAT. I unnecessarily tugged at the cuffs as tears filled my eyes.

Steve realized Jackie feared John more than Stefano even. "Jackie, Jackie..shh he is restrained. He can't get to you he is restrained at both wrists! My wife doesn't let him roam around. It's going to be ok." Steve looked at her horrified. "It's going to be ok."

I let go of the cuffs, realizing that I couldn't get free. I leaned over and buried my head in my hands, trying hard to calm down-for the babys' sake. Finally, I managed to get myself to just sniffles.

"Jackie you are safe I promise. John is in the psych ward! The security is tight up there it's alright. There you go. You ok now?"

I took a few deep breaths and nodded for Steve. Then, slowly, I looked at him, "Steve...as of right now...I'm putting all my trust...all my faith...in you..." I nervously ran a hand through my hair and added, "...if Stefano were to get near me...I don't..." I quickly shook my head against that line of thinking. NO...I have to try and be strong against him.

"I thank you for that. Hopefully Stefano will never get near you again but Jackie if he does you need to show him some courage and stand up to him. I know that is easier said than done but you need to try. It is the only way you will break this hold he has over you." He paused. "So since Eric wasn't supposed to die...what exactly was supposed to happen to him?"

"Yeah, easier said than done." I grimaced. "I'm sorry...again, I was just to mix the food and serve it to him. Someone else was ordered to take care of the rest." I put a hand to my head, trying to remember who it was that was to take over the mission from me.

"Ok, so you don't know what was to happen. If you can try and remember who was supposed to take care of the rest that would be a big help because they will be charged as well. If we can somehow prove this was Stefano's doing and get some people to testify against him maybe we can get the charges against you knocked down to a lesser charge."

I was quiet for a moment. Ok...It was Bart that got the ingredients for me...and Rolf..THAT'S IT! I looked at Steve, "I remembered...Rolf said something about collecting the body after I did my part."

Steve looked at Jackie not surprised. "Rolf, the weird scientist. Hmmm...maybe I need to pick him up after I leave here."

"Don't let him know it was me that told you. Make it so that you figured it out on your own. We don't get along as it is, and now he's probably Steffy's number 1 again..." I sighed. Maybe I was never Steffy's number one...maybe I wasn't even a number at all... My line of thought was causing me to get teary eyed again.

"I won't I will figure out something. I'm taking Roman and Abe with me I'm not going in that mansion myself not after what he did to John. Hey don't worry about him being Stefano's number one those 2 are perfect for each other. You know the saying birds of a feather flock together." Steve noticed she was getting teary eyed. "Aww why are you crying?"

I shrugged, "Just having revelations about what I really meant to Steffy. And it hurts...a lot..." I picked at the bed sheets. "We both wanted a child...for completely different reasons..."

"I know Jackie, I'm sorry he deceived you the way he did. At least the child will have one parent who loves him or her and no evil plans for them. I know you loved him. That is what he wanted. So you could do his dirty work then he wouldn't have to pay for it."

"I wish I never would have wandered onto his property in Rome and got caught trespassing. But then again, I probably will still be locked up...at...home..." I then just sat there dumfounded. I then whispered aloud in though, "Was my fate to be locked up no matter what?!"

Steve was saddened he wished there was something he could do for Jackie so she wouldn't be locked up. "I know and I wish I knew the answer to that. Jackie maybe Billie and I can help to make sure you are not locked up for life. I'm hoping once Billie calms down she will want to help."

I gave Steve a forced smile, "Thank you." Then I went quiet. So much has happened to me in just a few short hours. And just hours ago, I was laying next to Stefano, watching the morning sun illuminate his sleeping figure. A half grunt, half laugh escaped my lips.

"You're welcome. Steve noticed the laugh coming from Jackie. "Well good to see you laugh? What's so funny?"

"I was just thinkin...about how hours ago...I was watching Stefano sleeping...with the morning sun on him. I wore him out." Then I gasped and covered my mouth instantly realizing that Steve may have not wanted to hear that.

Steve rolled his eye. "Ohhh...um that just slipped out didn't it? That's all right."

I gave Steve a sheepish smile, "Yeah, sorry..." I coughed to clear my throat, "So you gonna call Billie now? Cuz if she's gonna snap on me about Eric, then I'd rather not wait much longer for that to happen."

"I'm not sure what Billie is doing she said something about taking a little bit of time off. Which is understandable."

I then remembered she was pregnant too. "Oh, yeah...she's having a baby too, isn't she?" I sighed. I was going to have to wait. I didn't like that but there was no choice. "Mackenzie is going to be a big sister."

"Yes she is. She will be raising two kids alone." Steve frowned. "Mackenzie is very excited about that." I frowned too. And I realized I was at a loss for words. "Well I don't think I have anymore questions for you but I bet you would like a nice piece of my wife's apple pie next time I come. She makes the best!"

"Thanks. But I don't deserve it." I was actually starting to feel tired.

"Jackie don't say that. I just might bring you one." Steve saw Jackie was getting tired. You look like you are getting tired. The guard is outside. Would you lie to get some sleep? I have to talk to Roman and then we need to get a warrant for his arrest."

"Yeah...I'd like to sleep...forever..." My lips twitched in my attempt to make a joke. But then I seriously reached out for Steve's hand, "Thank you...for taking the high road with me" Then I scooted down some in the bed to lay comfortably.

Steve laughed. "I don't know about forever." Steve grabbed Jackie's hand, "No problem. I have to job to do and that is to find out the truth and that often requires putting feelings aside whether it be anger or whatever. But the part of my job I hate is when I have to arrest people like you when I know you aren't the one responsible."

---

Broken Hearted Dreamer

A doorway behind me was the only illumination in the hallway where I stood. At least I assumed it was a hallway. As I turned to gaze out the glass panels of the door, the darkness of the hallway gave way to light. The effect startled me, but it allowed me to finally notice my surroundings. Indeed, it was a hallway-a very long hallway, with doors scattered on either side of me. I also noticed what I was wearing-a white long-flowing lace nightgown. Suddenly to my right, appearing out of nowhere, was a butler looking man that I didn't recognize. "This way, M'dam!" I had no choice but to follow. He lead me away from the moonlit door and into a large sitting room at the end of the hallway I previously stood in, causing me to realize that the hallway was shorter than I thought.

The large sitting room had a fireplace and there were large sitting chairs scattered about the room. All of the chairs were empty, except for one near the fire. "My dear, you are late." I recognized that voice and my eyes confirmed it. Stefano rose up from the chair, wine glass in hand.

"I'm sorry?" I was startled to find the butler had simply vanished, leaving only me and Stefano in the room. Stefano waved off my apology as he approached me and placed a hand on my stomach.

"I simply cannot have you out and about, mingling with others." He guided me to a chair that appeared across from the one he previously sat in near the fire-giving me no room to object.

"I...what?" The way things appeared and disappeared in this room was unnerving me. Even more so when suddenly Stefano was behind me with his hands on each of my shoulders, like he was holding me in place. Wait...he was just in front of me!

"I want...no I demand that you stay here, my dear." The moment he spoke those words, he was suddenly in his chair again as a tiny jail cell fell from the sky over me. Stefano simply chuckled and it began to echo around me after he vanished from the chair he sat in. I jumped up and wrapped my hands around the bars.

"Steffy, please...come back!" I shouted to the piercing laughter.

An echo reply came back to me, "You are useless to me now, Jacqueline. You treaded where you shouldn't have and now a child is missing." And as he spoke those words, I literally felt the baby inside me deflate and disappear. Steffy stood before me again, staring disapprovingly at me as I reached out for him with tears in my eyes.

"Steffy...I'm sorry...please...don't you love me anymore!?"

A controller appeared in his hand and he pressed the solitary button on it. The jail cell raised up, freeing me. I could only fall to my knees in tears. Two rough hands picked me up and threw me at Stefano. I struggled for freedom after seeing the look in his eyes. "Very well. But you screwed up my plans the first time. Now I am forced to take drastic measures to ensure a success the second time." The more I stared at him now, with his cold tone of voice and uncaring demeanor, the more twisted his face appeared. I struggled for freedom when I noticed he drew closer to me for a kiss. "Now be still, this will only take a minute."

The moment his lips crushed again mine...

...was the moment I woke up screaming bloody murder in the hospital room.

It was Jackie's nurse who called Kayla from John's room. As they walked the hall, Kayla briefly explained to Aaron about Jackie's nightmare and that Jackie needed them. As they entered Jackie's room, Aaron called out to her, "Hey Chief, having a bad night?"

I sat huddled in bed, crying hysterically. "It was horrible...horrible..." I couldn't manage to say much else yet, as the events of the nightmare was still fresh in my mind.

Kayla sat on the edge of Jackie's bed and reached out to her to comfort her. "You're safe, now, Jackie. Nobody is going to hurt you anymore."

I shook my head, "I'm not safe from him ANYWHERE...not even in my head!"

Both Aaron and Kayla feel for Jackie. The more she tried to get out from under Stefano's thumb, the more he tried to keep his hold on her. "The guard is right outside your door. He's not getting back in." Aaron assured her.

Kayla tone is quiet and soothing. "Will talking about your dream help?"

"Maybe...I dunno..." I bowed my head after looking from Aaron to Kayla. Sure there might be a guard outside my door, but not inside my head. I still was defenseless there. And beside, I knew if Stefano wanting back into this room bad enough...he'd do it.

"I can't tell you I know how you are feeling because I don't. But, I can imagine how scared you are right now. Sometimes dreams can seem real. But, that's what it was... a dream. And sometimes, talking about them helps." Kayla encouraged her to talk about her dream while Aaron looked on feeling helpless to help Jackie.

I was silent at first, but finally worked up the courage to talk about it. "I was escorted to a large room with a fireplace...and HE...Stefano...was there, waiting for me. Not only was the furniture appearing and disappearing...but he was too. First he was there, then he wasn't. Then he was behind me, then he wasn't. He sounded very upset with me. He said we lost the child because of you..." I paused, looking directly at Kayla at that moment, "...and then I literally felt my baby deflating." I paused again, trying not to cry. "But then he said that we must try again...only this time...he wasn't gentle with me...and when he wrapped his arms around me and kissed me...that's when I woke up." I ended with wrapping my arms around myself and trembling.

Kayla and Aaron listened as Jackie tells them about her dream. "Dreams can be an extension of what we fear. Right now, you are afraid Stefano will take your baby from you or worst... maybe even reject you." Kayla says the last part with sorrow in her voice because the last person Jackie needed was Stefano.

"Will?" I snapped at Kayla, "It's clear that he already has..." I sighed. "When he was here...with me and Steve...in Italian, I had dared Stefano...to make out with me in front of Steve...but Stefano didn't. I know damn well that Stefano knew that was all he had to do to get me the way he wanted me, but he didn't. WHY?" I then let my head fall into my hands, "I'm so confused."

"Jackie, if Stefano had kissed you in front of... anyone... well he just wouldn't." Kayla shook her head, unsure what she could say to get Jackie to understand Stefano would never show her any kind of affection in front of others.

"Jackie..." Aaron started. "If Stefano loved you the way you deserve to be loved, he would want to tell everyone. But Stefano doesn't know how to love... anyone."

I glanced at Aaron with sad eyes, "I'm starting to get that, Aaron. At first I simply thought he was just scared of what we had...I admit, it scared me too...which is why it took so long to get this involved with him." Absently, my hand went to my stomach.

"Well, right now we have to think about this little baby you are carrying. I can ask Steve if he can hurry your court date along so you can go straight there from here. Then there won't be any way Stefano can get anywhere near you." Kayla tries hard to assure Jackie she is finally safe from Stefano.

I nodded, "Thank you, Kayla." Then I looked at her with a very small hint of a smile. "Ya know...having you around...you and Aaron, you've both helped me to bring the positive to my life. I don't think I could ever thank you enough to match all that you've done for me...and my baby..."

"You're welcome." Aaron smiled.

"We'd do it again in a heart beat." Kayla added. "Aaron saw something in you the day he met you at the mall. I'm just glad he got Steve and I to open our eyes about you."

"I tried telling that to Steve since first meeting him at the hospital. But then he saw me in Stefano's arms when they were searching for John...and that was that." I fiddled with the sheets. "I think Stefano saw the same thing...that's why he didn't punish me for trespassing on his property 8 years ago."

"Stefano hasn't been our favorite person for a long time now. So, you must understand why Steve wasn't quick to trust you in the beginning." Kayla explains to Jackie. "But, he will lay down his life for a friend."

Startled at her last comment, I quickly shook my head at her, "No no...please...don't go that far just for me..." I ran a hand through my hair, "I'm just glad I finally chose the right side..."

"So are we." Kayla patted Jackie's hand. "Jackie, do you think you are up for some questions about John... and what was used on him?"

"Uh..sure..." I began, but then my stomach growled and I nervously chuckled, "How bout over some food? I can eat and talk at the same time."

Aaron grinned. "The cafeteria is closed, but I can raid the snack machines... any preference... chocolate or no? Mom?"

"No thank you, nothing for me."

"Two bags of potato chips." I smiled at Aaron before turning to Kayla, "So...what do you want to know?"

"Two chips coming right up." Aaron bowed before leaving to go find Jackie something to eat.

"I don't know if Steve told you, but I am also John's doctor..." Kayla began explaining to Jackie why she was even bothering Jackie with questions at this time.

I frowned, "Makes sense if he's here too." I managed to keep myself from freaking out again, with reminding myself that they would protect me and my baby from both men.

"But, just because I am his doctor will not stop me from giving you the best of care or vice versa. I can't go into his treatment with you... but, i need to know what exactly was put in his food and how much... because I believe that's why he is the way he is right now."

"I can't tell you exactly what his food consisted of, but I can tell you...that answer...it's in my old journal." I studied Kayla, listening to her closely. "He tried attacking you too...like he did to me, didn't he?"

"Which is at Stefano's mansion." Kayla frowns wondering if somehow Steve could retrieve the journal when he arrested Rolf. "John isn't himself... not his old self anyway. But, to answer your question... no, not exactly. He has said things for shock effect."

Aaron came back in the room, his hands full of goodies and dropped it on Jackie's bed. Potato chips, candy bars and 2 different kinds of sandwiches are now on Jackie's bed with cans of coke. "I figured you might get hungry later." he explained with a smile.

I hesitated my reply long enough for Aaron to return. Immediately I snatched a bag of chips, a sandwich and a coke. For me, later was now. As I unwrapped the sandwich, I finally spoke, "Well, if you have him tied to the bed like I am, then I guess he hasn't had a chance to assault you. So I guess you are spared a horrific thing." I myself couldn't stop from relieve that event.

"I'm sorry that happened to you. It must have been terrifying." More than anything, Kayla wished she could tell Jackie John will not always be that way. However, because of doctor patient privilege, she couldn't.

Aaron spoke up for Kayla. "Where he is, there is no way he can get anywhere near you. He doesn't even know you are here." Aaron chuckled. "Far as he knows, you went back to Italy."

"Well, Aaron...here's hoping he DIDN'T hear my scream..." I blushed sheepishly, obviously focusing on my sandwich so I wouldn't have to look at them. Then I abruptly looked up, "Come to think of it...I don't think the transformation was completed. I mean, John assaulted me during dinner...and I never got to finish feeding him that night because Stefano sent me away immediately."

"Even if he heard you, baby...there is no way he can get to you." Aaron assured her.

"Never finished?" Kayla asked Jackie. "Jackie, what would the transformation once completed do to John?"

"That's comforting, Aaron." I felt relieved. "As far as I know...about John...Stefano was trying a new route to transform him into a totally obedient person. He mentioned he had John once before and that this time would be permanent...as long as I continued feeding him."

"But after he...attacked you, Stefano didn't allow you to feed him anymore, right? Did Stefano have you prepare his food again for someone else to feed him?"

I shook my head, "I don't know. I'm sorry." I felt horrible for not having the answer to that. "I have no idea who moved John from Rome to Stefano's basement. And somehow, I believe that Stefano is clueless as well. Stefano didn't even know I was here at first. I was having dinner with Steve and Billie when he called. He was on the next flight here. We met up at the park and he told me that after he sent me away, he was called away on business as well."

"If it's true Stefano didn't know about the move, someone else moved him... but why? Were they protecting John or you, Jackie? It would also mean john's transformation was never complete...which would explain John's erratic behavior." Kayla pondered aloud.

I shrugged, "Well, let's see...there were only a handful that were allowed clearance to John..." I tilted my head in thought, "...Stefano, me, Rolf, sometimes Bart, and a lady named Celeste." Then I blinked, "Now that I'm thinking about her...I haven't seen Celeste for a long time, not since the week before John's attack on me."

"I think Steve or Abe even needs to have a little chat with Celeste. Thank you, Jackie, You have been very helpful."

"You're welcome...I think." I bit my lower lip, gazing about the room in silence. "Ok...so far he's only been verbally dirty towards you..." I glanced between Aaron and Kayla, "Has he exhibiting anything else? Maybe something that wasn't a part of his personality yesterday, but showed up today?"

"Besides being a sex addict? Nope... nothing unusual at all." Aaron grins.

I blinked in surprise, "A sex addict?" I put a hand to my mouth and mumbled, "So that's why he attacked me. Then...which dinner was the cause of that..." I really wished for my journal now, even though I told Aaron before that I never wanted to see it again.

"We did a MRI on him... the part of his brain which controls his libido is abnormal.

Whatever you gave him was meant to stimulate him. The only thing is, even though he's stopped taking the drug, he is still going strong." Kayla admitted to Jackie what was going on with John because she felt Jackie could help them.

"Dad and I will just have to get your journal back for you." Aaron thought out loud.

"There was this one dish...Stefano suggested I give it to him at least twice a month. But I can't remember the exact ingredients off-hand." I finished my drink, chips and sandwich at this time and fiddled with the wrappers.

"What was the dish?" Kayla asked. "Maybe it was a combination of the dish and extra herbs you used."

"Yeah...um..." I stalled for time as I thought. "...Stefano seemed pleased with the way I altered Bruschetta. That's an antipasti dish, if you didn't know." I then added, "But I was constantly experimenting dishes...not just Italian dishes though. I did tell you that cooking was my thing."

Aaron laughed. "Well he isn't getting any Bruchetta here at the hospital. So that's not it."

"It must be one of the other dishes you worked on." Kayla added with a sigh.

"Maybe it was something in the last dish I made...something that would last in his bloodstream for a while before fading off?" I looked at them in thought. "Penne with Vodka Sauce and Capicola-it's a pasta dish."

"Maybe it was the vodka in the vodka sauce and herbs mixed together?" Kayla asked to one one in particular. "Hopefully, Steve can get a search warrant for your journal because we will need what's in it."

"And then burn it after." I simply added.

"Well, I'm sure dad will need it as evidence, but afterwards, I'm sure you can do with it whatever you want."

I shook my head, "Noooo...I only want it to help everyone. I told you before, Aaron...I never want to see that thing again...it's full of lies now."

"I'll tell Steve to get rid of it when they are done with it then." Kayla assured her since they knew Jackie really didn't want it any more.

"OK...good...well, if there isn't anything else...I'd like to visit the bathroom now."

"No, I think that's it." Aaron looks at Kayla who shakes her head,'no'. "As long as you are all right yourself, I think we can go and let you get some sleep." Kayla answered.