Chapter 15
Carly stood in the doorway watching her son, who was listening raptly to the story his stepfather was reading. They sat close together on the bed, Michael's head resting on Sonny's shoulder. Tears formed in her eyes at the obvious love and trust that existed between the two most important people in her life. She knew that all the painful times were worth it, if they had led to this perfect moment.
As Sonny finished the story, he glanced up and found her watching them. Seeing the glimmer of tears in her eyes, he was reminded of how important this family was to Carly - to them both. His smile for her was warm and loving. Turning back to Michael, he said, "OK pal. It's time for bed." Standing, he pulled the blankets back, waited for the boy to climb in, and then covered him. Sonny leaned down and gave him a hug and a kiss. "Good night, Michael."
Carly approached the bed, sat down, and pulled Michael into a big hug. "Good night, little man," she said. "Maybe tomorrow we can go down to the lake and watch the boats. Would you like that?"
Laying down, he responded, "Yes, mama. Can Uncle Sonny come, too?"
It always warmed his heart when Michael included him. "I'll try, Michael," Sonny responded. "I'll let you know in the morning, OK?" When Michael nodded, he said, "Good night."
Carly closed the door behind them, wrapped her arms around Sonny's neck, and said, "Thank you."
Pulling her closer, he asked, "For what?" Looking into her eyes, he saw his love reflected there.
"For being so wonderful with him," she answered. "He adores you, Sonny, and so does his mother." She laughed shakily, her emotions very close to the surface.
"I should be the one thanking you - for bringing him into my life." Sonny paused. "I couldn't love him more if he were my own son, and he will never feel like he is less important to me than this child."
Moved by his words, Carly felt the tears slide down her face. "I love you, Sonny Corinthos," she whispered. He tightened his arms around her and kissed her deeply.
They walked slowly to their bedroom, holding each other close. Suddenly Carly stopped, drew in a sharp breath, and clutched her abdomen with her hand.
"What's wrong, Carly?" he asked worriedly. "Is it the baby?"
She smiled widely at him. "Nothing is wrong, Sonny," she reassured. "Your son or daughter is practising for the Port Charles soccer team and kicked me a good one."
Relieved, Sonny grinned and said, "Really? The baby kicked?" She took his hand and placed it on her expanding stomach, waiting for their child to repeat the action. When he felt the movement beneath his hand, Sonny looked at his wife with tears in his eyes, awed by the miracle their love had created. "I love you," he stated huskily. Then he drew her into his arms and savored the feeling of holding his wife and child close to his heart.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Jason had picked Elizabeth up on his bike and they had been riding for more than an hour. She was very curious about their destination, but all he would say is, "You'll see." The ride itself was blowing away the day's stresses and freeing her from everyday concerns.
The bike slowed and stopped in a clearing surrounded by trees. Jason dismounted and turned to help Elizabeth. While she took off her helmet, he untied the bag he had attached behind the seat. Looking up, he smiled at the glowing color in her cheeks and avid look of curiosity in her face.
"Where are we, Jason?" she asked. It was already dark, but the full moon offered enough light for her to see what looked like a path through the woods.
Jason removed a flashlight from his bag and took her hand, leading her toward the path. "I can't really explain where we are. I want you to see it."
Entwining her fingers with his, Elizabeth followed him closely. The flashlight provided enough light to dispel the darkness caused by the covering of the trees. After just a few minutes, they came to an opening and stepped through. Jason dropped the bag on the ground and turned to watch Elizabeth's reaction.
She walked forward and breathed, "Oh, Jason. It's spectacular." They were high up on some type of escarpment and spread below was untamed woodland with a stream meandering through it. The moonlight bathed everything in a silvery glow that made the scene appear otherworldly. The artist in her itched to paint it. "Thank you for bringing me," she said simply.
A spring breeze ruffled her hair as Jason came up behind her and put his arms around her waist. Resting his chin on the top of her head, he responded, "I found this place one day while I was out riding. It's calm right now, but when a strong wind is blowing, it's a lot like being on the bike. It's so loud and feels so powerful that you feel like it could carry you away with it."
Leaning back on him, Elizabeth asked, "Will you bring me back one day when the wind is blowing?"
"Sure," he answered. They stood, enjoying their silent communion with the peaceful surroundings and each other. Finally, Jason said, "Come on. You must be hungry." He released her and turned to retrieve his bag. From it, he took out and spread a blanket, some cheese, bread, fruit, and bottled water.
Amazed, Elizabeth went to join him on the blanket. "Wow," she said. "You certainly come prepared."
Jason shrugged. "It's not much, but it's about all I could manage on the bike."
She reached for his hand, squeezed it, and said, "It's perfect." As she ate the food that Jason handed her, she watched him. He was such a fascinating combination of harshness and gentleness. With most people, he was cool and distant, but with her, he was warm and loving.
He looked up and caught her eyes on him. A smile softened his features. "What is it, Elizabeth?" he asked. Sometimes when he looked at her, his throat ached from suppressing the feelings she stirred in him.
"I was just thinking how glad I am to be here with you." They continued looking into each other's eyes, lost in the moment.
Jason took the strawberry he was holding and raised it to her mouth. Without breaking eye contact, she took a bite and licked the juice from her lips. He groaned and lifted his hand to place it behind her head, pulled her to him and kissed her fiercely. She tasted so sweet and her response drove him wild. Laying her down on the blanket, he said hoarsely, "Do you know what you do to me, Elizabeth?" The fire burning in his eyes told of his need for her.
Feeling the answering flame igniting in her, she responded, "It's the same thing you do to me." She slid her hands under his shirt and up over his muscled back. He drew in a sharp breath and reclaimed possession of her mouth, kissing her deeply.
Suddenly, an increasing chill in the air made Jason realize that they should be going before it got too late. Pulling back slightly, he caressed her face, reluctant to break the moment. "We should go," he said, smiling. "I don't want to leave but it's getting cold."
He stood, reached for her hand, pulled her to her feet and into his arms. Elizabeth held him close and said softly, "Thank you for tonight. I loved being here with you." She hesitated, and then asked shyly, "Will you stay with me tonight, Jason?"
"I'd like that, Elizabeth," he answered. "Let's go home."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Sonny and Carly were curled up in bed, just holding each other, when she remembered something she had meant to ask him earlier. "Sonny," she started. "Jason was here today, wasn't he?"
"You know he was, Carly," he answered. "What's this about?"
Turning a little so she could face him, she responded, "I was just curious to know if he said anything about what happened between him and Michelle last night." Sonny raised one eyebrow and waited for her to continue. She sighed, knowing she would have to explain further. "When I spent time with Michelle yesterday, she asked my advice concerning her relationship with Jason."
Sonny chuckled. "She asked you for advice about Jason? That's rich."
Carly smacked him playfully and said, "What's so funny about that? Actually, considering the topic was 'being in love with Jason when he is not in love with you', I could be considered something of an expert." She reached out to touch his cheek lovingly and continued, "Of course, I reassured her that someday she would meet someone she would love more than anyone before him and he would make her happier than she could possibly dream."
Smiling, Sonny said, "So I guess you want to know how things went down." When she nodded, he went on, "Well, he didn't swear me to secrecy, and you're going to find out sooner or later, so... I would say that she definitely talked to him. Things must be over between them."
When he didn't continue, she prompted, "And you know this because....". Really! Men could be so frustrating.
Sonny paused, unsure how to put it delicately. "Well, when I called Jason very early this morning, he wasn't at the penthouse. He was at Elizabeth's." He stopped, waiting for the explosion.
Carly didn't say anything right away. She was thinking of all the nasty things she had said about Elizabeth - the even worse thoughts she'd had about her. She knew that most of them were unfounded, fostered by her jealousy of Elizabeth's acceptance by everyone, especially Jason. Now, with the security of Sonny's love, she could see more clearly the qualities that drew Jason to Liz.
When she remained quiet, Sonny said, "Carly? Are you all right with this? He's in love with her, you know."
"I know," she responded. "Now that I've let go of my petty grievances against Elizabeth, I can actually see that she could make Jason happy." Seeing the stunned look on Sonny's face, she laughed. "What? Yes, I know that isn't my usual reaction, but I know that Jason's in love with her. He has been for a long time, and I don't see that changing. I want him to be happy, Sonny."
Gathering her close, he kissed her lovingly and said, "Well, Mrs. Corinthos, if she makes him as happy as you make me, he'll be set for life."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
The ride home was accomplished in complete harmony and companionable silence. Jason and Elizabeth entered her studio and removed their jackets. Facing each other, neither moved to turn on the lights. The full moon lit the room in soft, white light. As Jason drew closer to her and lifted his hands to run them through her hair, she closed her eyes and shivered in anticipation. Her body was already humming with the desire only he could arouse in her. When he finally kissed her, she moaned and raised her arms to encircle his neck, pulling her body up against his at the same time.
Jason's hands skimmed her body lightly, then more urgently as the flame ignited between them. He slid his hands under her shirt, stroking the soft skin underneath. When she returned the favor, he shuddered and quickly removed both their shirts. Seeing the moonlight caress her skin made the fire inside him burn brighter, hotter. He clasped her to him and kissed her fiercely, then turned and tumbled them onto the bed.
"You are so beautiful," he said, devouring her with his eyes. The need for her seemed to grow stronger every day - ensnaring him in bonds he had no wish to break.
The look he gave her seared her in its intensity. She felt as if she were being consumed in molten heat and wanted it. "Love me, Jason," she whispered huskily. She continued to run her hands over his toned body and felt satisfaction when he shuddered once more.
"With everything that's in me," he responded.
When he proceeded to do just that, no more words were needed. Together they found the place that only lovers can, where two hearts join and become one.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Carly stood in the doorway watching her son, who was listening raptly to the story his stepfather was reading. They sat close together on the bed, Michael's head resting on Sonny's shoulder. Tears formed in her eyes at the obvious love and trust that existed between the two most important people in her life. She knew that all the painful times were worth it, if they had led to this perfect moment.
As Sonny finished the story, he glanced up and found her watching them. Seeing the glimmer of tears in her eyes, he was reminded of how important this family was to Carly - to them both. His smile for her was warm and loving. Turning back to Michael, he said, "OK pal. It's time for bed." Standing, he pulled the blankets back, waited for the boy to climb in, and then covered him. Sonny leaned down and gave him a hug and a kiss. "Good night, Michael."
Carly approached the bed, sat down, and pulled Michael into a big hug. "Good night, little man," she said. "Maybe tomorrow we can go down to the lake and watch the boats. Would you like that?"
Laying down, he responded, "Yes, mama. Can Uncle Sonny come, too?"
It always warmed his heart when Michael included him. "I'll try, Michael," Sonny responded. "I'll let you know in the morning, OK?" When Michael nodded, he said, "Good night."
Carly closed the door behind them, wrapped her arms around Sonny's neck, and said, "Thank you."
Pulling her closer, he asked, "For what?" Looking into her eyes, he saw his love reflected there.
"For being so wonderful with him," she answered. "He adores you, Sonny, and so does his mother." She laughed shakily, her emotions very close to the surface.
"I should be the one thanking you - for bringing him into my life." Sonny paused. "I couldn't love him more if he were my own son, and he will never feel like he is less important to me than this child."
Moved by his words, Carly felt the tears slide down her face. "I love you, Sonny Corinthos," she whispered. He tightened his arms around her and kissed her deeply.
They walked slowly to their bedroom, holding each other close. Suddenly Carly stopped, drew in a sharp breath, and clutched her abdomen with her hand.
"What's wrong, Carly?" he asked worriedly. "Is it the baby?"
She smiled widely at him. "Nothing is wrong, Sonny," she reassured. "Your son or daughter is practising for the Port Charles soccer team and kicked me a good one."
Relieved, Sonny grinned and said, "Really? The baby kicked?" She took his hand and placed it on her expanding stomach, waiting for their child to repeat the action. When he felt the movement beneath his hand, Sonny looked at his wife with tears in his eyes, awed by the miracle their love had created. "I love you," he stated huskily. Then he drew her into his arms and savored the feeling of holding his wife and child close to his heart.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Jason had picked Elizabeth up on his bike and they had been riding for more than an hour. She was very curious about their destination, but all he would say is, "You'll see." The ride itself was blowing away the day's stresses and freeing her from everyday concerns.
The bike slowed and stopped in a clearing surrounded by trees. Jason dismounted and turned to help Elizabeth. While she took off her helmet, he untied the bag he had attached behind the seat. Looking up, he smiled at the glowing color in her cheeks and avid look of curiosity in her face.
"Where are we, Jason?" she asked. It was already dark, but the full moon offered enough light for her to see what looked like a path through the woods.
Jason removed a flashlight from his bag and took her hand, leading her toward the path. "I can't really explain where we are. I want you to see it."
Entwining her fingers with his, Elizabeth followed him closely. The flashlight provided enough light to dispel the darkness caused by the covering of the trees. After just a few minutes, they came to an opening and stepped through. Jason dropped the bag on the ground and turned to watch Elizabeth's reaction.
She walked forward and breathed, "Oh, Jason. It's spectacular." They were high up on some type of escarpment and spread below was untamed woodland with a stream meandering through it. The moonlight bathed everything in a silvery glow that made the scene appear otherworldly. The artist in her itched to paint it. "Thank you for bringing me," she said simply.
A spring breeze ruffled her hair as Jason came up behind her and put his arms around her waist. Resting his chin on the top of her head, he responded, "I found this place one day while I was out riding. It's calm right now, but when a strong wind is blowing, it's a lot like being on the bike. It's so loud and feels so powerful that you feel like it could carry you away with it."
Leaning back on him, Elizabeth asked, "Will you bring me back one day when the wind is blowing?"
"Sure," he answered. They stood, enjoying their silent communion with the peaceful surroundings and each other. Finally, Jason said, "Come on. You must be hungry." He released her and turned to retrieve his bag. From it, he took out and spread a blanket, some cheese, bread, fruit, and bottled water.
Amazed, Elizabeth went to join him on the blanket. "Wow," she said. "You certainly come prepared."
Jason shrugged. "It's not much, but it's about all I could manage on the bike."
She reached for his hand, squeezed it, and said, "It's perfect." As she ate the food that Jason handed her, she watched him. He was such a fascinating combination of harshness and gentleness. With most people, he was cool and distant, but with her, he was warm and loving.
He looked up and caught her eyes on him. A smile softened his features. "What is it, Elizabeth?" he asked. Sometimes when he looked at her, his throat ached from suppressing the feelings she stirred in him.
"I was just thinking how glad I am to be here with you." They continued looking into each other's eyes, lost in the moment.
Jason took the strawberry he was holding and raised it to her mouth. Without breaking eye contact, she took a bite and licked the juice from her lips. He groaned and lifted his hand to place it behind her head, pulled her to him and kissed her fiercely. She tasted so sweet and her response drove him wild. Laying her down on the blanket, he said hoarsely, "Do you know what you do to me, Elizabeth?" The fire burning in his eyes told of his need for her.
Feeling the answering flame igniting in her, she responded, "It's the same thing you do to me." She slid her hands under his shirt and up over his muscled back. He drew in a sharp breath and reclaimed possession of her mouth, kissing her deeply.
Suddenly, an increasing chill in the air made Jason realize that they should be going before it got too late. Pulling back slightly, he caressed her face, reluctant to break the moment. "We should go," he said, smiling. "I don't want to leave but it's getting cold."
He stood, reached for her hand, pulled her to her feet and into his arms. Elizabeth held him close and said softly, "Thank you for tonight. I loved being here with you." She hesitated, and then asked shyly, "Will you stay with me tonight, Jason?"
"I'd like that, Elizabeth," he answered. "Let's go home."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Sonny and Carly were curled up in bed, just holding each other, when she remembered something she had meant to ask him earlier. "Sonny," she started. "Jason was here today, wasn't he?"
"You know he was, Carly," he answered. "What's this about?"
Turning a little so she could face him, she responded, "I was just curious to know if he said anything about what happened between him and Michelle last night." Sonny raised one eyebrow and waited for her to continue. She sighed, knowing she would have to explain further. "When I spent time with Michelle yesterday, she asked my advice concerning her relationship with Jason."
Sonny chuckled. "She asked you for advice about Jason? That's rich."
Carly smacked him playfully and said, "What's so funny about that? Actually, considering the topic was 'being in love with Jason when he is not in love with you', I could be considered something of an expert." She reached out to touch his cheek lovingly and continued, "Of course, I reassured her that someday she would meet someone she would love more than anyone before him and he would make her happier than she could possibly dream."
Smiling, Sonny said, "So I guess you want to know how things went down." When she nodded, he went on, "Well, he didn't swear me to secrecy, and you're going to find out sooner or later, so... I would say that she definitely talked to him. Things must be over between them."
When he didn't continue, she prompted, "And you know this because....". Really! Men could be so frustrating.
Sonny paused, unsure how to put it delicately. "Well, when I called Jason very early this morning, he wasn't at the penthouse. He was at Elizabeth's." He stopped, waiting for the explosion.
Carly didn't say anything right away. She was thinking of all the nasty things she had said about Elizabeth - the even worse thoughts she'd had about her. She knew that most of them were unfounded, fostered by her jealousy of Elizabeth's acceptance by everyone, especially Jason. Now, with the security of Sonny's love, she could see more clearly the qualities that drew Jason to Liz.
When she remained quiet, Sonny said, "Carly? Are you all right with this? He's in love with her, you know."
"I know," she responded. "Now that I've let go of my petty grievances against Elizabeth, I can actually see that she could make Jason happy." Seeing the stunned look on Sonny's face, she laughed. "What? Yes, I know that isn't my usual reaction, but I know that Jason's in love with her. He has been for a long time, and I don't see that changing. I want him to be happy, Sonny."
Gathering her close, he kissed her lovingly and said, "Well, Mrs. Corinthos, if she makes him as happy as you make me, he'll be set for life."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
The ride home was accomplished in complete harmony and companionable silence. Jason and Elizabeth entered her studio and removed their jackets. Facing each other, neither moved to turn on the lights. The full moon lit the room in soft, white light. As Jason drew closer to her and lifted his hands to run them through her hair, she closed her eyes and shivered in anticipation. Her body was already humming with the desire only he could arouse in her. When he finally kissed her, she moaned and raised her arms to encircle his neck, pulling her body up against his at the same time.
Jason's hands skimmed her body lightly, then more urgently as the flame ignited between them. He slid his hands under her shirt, stroking the soft skin underneath. When she returned the favor, he shuddered and quickly removed both their shirts. Seeing the moonlight caress her skin made the fire inside him burn brighter, hotter. He clasped her to him and kissed her fiercely, then turned and tumbled them onto the bed.
"You are so beautiful," he said, devouring her with his eyes. The need for her seemed to grow stronger every day - ensnaring him in bonds he had no wish to break.
The look he gave her seared her in its intensity. She felt as if she were being consumed in molten heat and wanted it. "Love me, Jason," she whispered huskily. She continued to run her hands over his toned body and felt satisfaction when he shuddered once more.
"With everything that's in me," he responded.
When he proceeded to do just that, no more words were needed. Together they found the place that only lovers can, where two hearts join and become one.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*