1996
Caroline Benson was going to die. She looked at the blond woman with a cool expression even as she tried to figure out a way to escape. The blond had cornered her in her own house and came sporting a guard as gorgeous as he was armed to the teeth. First she had tried to run. That had been a disaster. Hunky and dangerous had dragged her back without even breaking a sweat. Then, of course, she had tried to fight. Caroline had gotten in a full force slap to the old biddy's face before her wrist had nearly been snapped in two; again hunky and dangerous' work. "What do you want?" She hissed, tears sparkling in her big eyes. She wouldn't give them the satisfaction of seeing them fall.
The blond looked Caroline over carefully, a predatory smile appearing on her anger tightened features. "You belong to me now darling." She said as she ran a possessive hand over the twenty year old's cheek. Caroline wanted to strike out, to attack the woman. Somehow, she held herself in check.
"How is that?" Caroline knew when to act like she didn't care.
"I own you." Was the blond's reply. You will go to a town called Port Charles, in New York. You will become friends with a nurse named Bobbie Spencer. You will destroy her life." As the woman's voice lowered into a tone that was pure evil, Caroline couldn't help but shiver.
"Why?" She asked, wondering if the woman knew what she knew; that Bobbie Spencer was her mother.
"Because if you do not." The blond gave her an innocent smile. "Virginia Benson dies." Before she left the young girl, Helena dropped a packet of pictures on her lap.
Hours later, Caroline was sitting on a worn sofa, rubbing her wrist absently. Graphic pictures surrounded her. "She killed Carly." Caroline whispered before lurching to the phone. She didn't know who the woman was but she was in big time trouble and only one person could help. As she dialed a number, Caroline kept repeating one word over and over. "Blade."
Blade Williams tossed his reddish blond hair and wailed along with His favorite Robert Cray song. As he danced around his small apartment, playing air guitar, he caught a glimpse of a blond looking in his window. "I should have worn more then just these shorts." He muttered, moving to the window. She had disappeared; the only indication that the woman hadn't been a figment of his imagination was the dark limousine that was pulling away from the curb. Limos? In this part of town? Blade shook his head in amusement, wondering if he should call Caroline and tell her what had happened.
"Please pick up." Caroline whispered as she dialed the phone again. Her shaking hands had dialed the wrong number not once but twice. At this point it would have taken less time for her to run across the street to her best friend, but she was far too frightened to leave her house. These people had killed before and she didn't doubt for a minute that they would off her in a second. And if not her, then her mother. She and Virginia didn't always get along, but they were all each other had.
Blade heard his phone ring and paused while he dug through a pile of cds to find it. "Blade here whatcha need." He said into the phone, his voice sillky and slow in the Florida heat.
"It's me." Caroline choked out. "Someone was here and Blade, they killed Carly. I'm in trouble. Help me."
Helena Cassadine looked at her manservant Ari and smiled as she sipped an icey glass of champagne. "Well that went rather well. I saw both children. Caroline will be an adequate protégé and Blade, well…" She chuckled and took a long sip of the effervescent beverage. "He is as captivating as his father. One day, he too will be mine."
Chapter 1
March, 2000
"What is it?" Carly snapped into her cell phone. She had been trying to cook dinner for Sonny but it was a pure disaster. How he cooked so efficiently and well was beyond Carly's comprehension. She had just been trying to make him dinner, but instead charred pots and pans surrounded her and the acrid scent of smoke permeated the air. As Carly fought to cough, she fanned the air. "Who is it and what do you want?" She snapped into the phone, her patience gone.
Helena Cassadine let out a low chuckle before speaking. "Hello Caroline. How are you today?"
Carly gasped before feeling the suffocating feeing of not being able to breathe. Why was this woman calling her? She hadn't called in two years? "I thought our business had concluded." Her voice sounded small and thin to her ears.
"Things change. Circumstances change." Helena said evenly. One of her spies at Wyndamere had informed her of the going on between Bobbie and Stefan. " I have another job for you dear Caroline."
"I don't want another job." Carly hissed angrily. She had enough of this woman's machinations. Helena Cassadine had controlled her for every moment of her first year in Port Charles and had set so many things into motion that had impacted Carly for life. "I'm not interested in your jobs. Virginia is gone, you got your wish though what you had against the woman is beyond me."
"I had nothing against your dear mother." Helena trilled in reply. She was thoroughly enjoying Caroline's discomfort. It was empowering to hear the young girl squirming, not that it would make any difference in the end. Helena would get her own way and now one would stand in her way.
"Yeah right." Carly snorted in a very unladylike way, having decided that she was going to project an air of confidence while talking to this control freak.
"Now Caroline is that any way to talk to the woman who holds your dear child's life in her hands. How is precious Michael? It would be a tragedy indeed if he were to meet the same end as your dear friend in Florida."
Carly's heart stopped as she tried desperately for control. It wasn't enough that the woman had threatened Virginia Benson for so many years, now she was moving the threat to Michae. "What…what do you want?" Carly whispered, close to tears. She needed a lot of help and she needed it now.
"My weak willed son seems to have found himself back in your birth mother's arms." Helena started. She could almost smell the fear emanating from Carly. She would have the young tart's compliance if she held the little brat's life in the balance. "If you do not break up the happy lovers Caroline I will be forced to enact some extreme measures." With a dramatic pause, Helena hung up the phone and smiled to Ari. "Stefan will soon be alone again."
Carly stared at the phone in shock before the tears started. "Oh no, no not Michael." She whispered as she rocked back and forth. Why couldn't anything work out her way?
~*~
Bobbie Spencer rapped anxiously on Luke's above club apartment door. "Luke Spencer that monstrosity you call a car is here so I know you are. Let me in" Bobbie called out. It was freezing, the wind whipping relentlessly through her woolen coat and her high heels struggled for purchase on the icy landing.
Luke sighed and looked at Alexis. They had just arrived home from their London adventure and he desperately wanted to study his counselor's briefs in glorious detail but that would have to wait until later.
"Natasha, I need to see her. She knows who sweet Caroline's father is and we all need to know. Get in bed and I'll join you soon." Luke said as he swatted playfully at Alexis' rear.
"I understand." Alexis planted a gentle kiss along Luke's temple and didn't bother to wipe off the lipstick print that lingered. Let Bobbie wonder what was going on with her brother, Alexis thought with a small smile. She and Luke had sat in comfortable silence throughout the Atlantic crossing and she was worn out from the 6000 miles of air space traversed in the last day. "Thanks for everything Luke." She added with a small smile.
"Thank you Natasha." Luke's voice was soft as he gave Alexis a gentle smile. "I'll be in as soon as I can but Barbara Jean and I have some makin' up to do."
"Come on Luke." Bobbie yelled. She was freezing and she could clearly hear his voice. He was just simply ignoring her. "Luke Spencer you open this door now!" Bobbie yelled. She had lost all patience after five minutes in the bitter cold.
"I know, go." Alexis said with a gentle nudge. "She's getting irate."
"That's just her bein' a Spencer.' Luke retorted. He waited until Alexis had closed the bedroom door before moving to his door and pulling it open. "Hi Barbara Jean." He said solemnly.
"Luke." Bobbie said quietly. The last time they had been in the same room, a huge argument had ensued. They warily watched one another for a few minutes, standing feet apart before Bobbie crossed the distance to hug her brother.
"Thank you for helping me out." Bobbie said quietly as she rubbed her brother's back in slow circles. He was the one constant male in her life, the force from which every man in her life was and would be judged. "What you did Luke, specially after our fight…" she trailed off as she wiped a stray tear. "Thank you."
"It's nothin'." Luke's voice was gruff. Silence stretched between them as Luke searched for the words that would not hurt his sister. "So…" he started slowly. "Who's Caroline's father?"
Bobbie pulled away slightly to look her brother in the eyes. "I can't tell you that yet. She needs to know before anyone else. I won't make the mistake of keeping secrets from the wrong person again."
Luke let out a melodramatic sigh before continuing. "All right." He agreed quietly. "Will you come back after you see her?"
"You know I will." Bobbie assured, turning to leave. "And tell Alexis I love her new shade of lipstick." She added, with a smug smile she tossed over her shoulder.
Luke's eyes widened at the mention of Alexis and he took a subtle look around his apartment. "What do you mean?"
"I mean" Bobbie said and approached her brother again. She paused while she rummaged through her purse. "That Alexis lipstick looks better on her lips than it does your forehead." Her cold numbed fingers finally worked as Bobbie found and opened a makeup compact and showed her brother the scarlet brand upon his forehead.
Luke reddened and cleared his throat before speaking again. "Oh." Was all he could manage. It was ridiculous for a man of his years to be embarrassed about seeing another woman after his divorce.
"Go have fun." Bobbie said in a breezy tone as she left. "I'll call you after I've spoken to Caroline."
~*~
House of Blues,
Orlando, Florida
"You're transferring me?" Blade Williams looked at the district manager for the House of blues in shock. He had been called into a meeting upon arriving at work and had never expected this news. He had co- assistant managed the Orlando branch of the House of Blues for the last four years and had expected to be there forever. "Where do you want me to go?" he asked numbly. In response he was handed an envelope. He slit the flap of the envelope hastily, wondering where his future was to bring him.
"Port Charles, New York? Where is this?" He studied the maps and information carefully. "And we'll open June first. Closest competition is a local joint named Lukes?" As he digested this information, Blade nodded slowly. "All right. I can fly up today and you'll pack my house and relocate me?" The offer was more than generous and he saw no alternative beside acceptance. It was just a shock to the system.
As Blade signed the papers that made his transfer official, he was already planning what he'd bring along. He had an apartment in a complex called Harborview Towers that looked a lot nicer then expected and could bring three suitcases and two carryons when he caught his flight later in the day. He'd make two flights back at company expense on his days off to oversee the packing of his apartment and to tie up loose ends but from this moment on, he was the head manager of the newest HOB location.
"Port Charles here I come!" Blade said as he climbed into his vintage cherry red corvette and cranked some Eric Clapton on the Cd player.
~*~
Carly slowly uncurled from her stupor when she heard the door click open. Her features first registered horror as she wondered if Helena was coming to get her but when she saw Sonny there, she moved into his arms. "I need you." Carly whispered to the man she had shared a penthouse with for a month.
"What's wrong?" Sonny asked carefully. "Is it the baby?" his hand went to her stomach protectively. "Or is it Michael?" he glanced toward the stairs where Leticia was approaching with Michael.
"No no not that. The baby and Michael are fine for now." She paused then bit her lip. "But I need a big favor. I'm in big trouble." Carly said before her world went dark.
Chapter 2
"Well now Ari things are falling into place so well." Helena said with a smile as she sipped her champagne. "Caroline will soon be under our control again and when I control her, I will be way on the way to controlling the family and it's finances. Where shall we vacation first? I was thinking we might undertake an African safari. Would you like that?" She surveyed her assistant cum love slave with a small smile. "Ari would you like that?"
Ari nodded and smiled at Helena. She may have not been his type, but she was very generous to him and he knew he was very lucky. "Thank you madam. That would be wonderful." Ari said as warmth seeped into his impassive features. "I have always fancied a trip to South Africa."
"And a trip you will have." Helena replied as she ran her fingers through Ari's thick dark hair. "Caroline will be wreaking havoc within my family and when they are distracted we can bring in my big surprise." She smiled a she glanced across the room where a vague shape was barely discernible in the evening light. "We will win the battle. Then the family will again me mine. You will, of course rule by my side darling." Helena asserted, giving a feral smile.
Ari shuddered slightly. This was one of the byproducts of his job that he had never cared for. He was a good business assistant and a great lover. Helena had given him so many things that he would never have been able to attain on his own. The role of heavy, however was one he never enjoyed and Ari could foresee himself in that role often. He sighed and rolled his shoulders slowly, contemplating the dream of a life away for Helena for a brief moment. He would get away someday and be his own man, if it was the last thing he ever did.
~*~
V Ardanowski walked quietly up to Sonny's door where Johnny waited sentry like. He was at ease, his eyes closed and his muscular body relaxed under the designer suit. Sneaking slowly, V was careful not to even rustle the bags she was carrying. So intent was she on getting to her boyfriend silently, that she missed a wrinkle in the wall to wall carpeting and with a yelp, V found herself on the floor at Johnny's feet.
Johnny had heard her approaching. He was so attuned to Venus that he knew her breathing, he had memorized the sound of her footfalls as they glided across the thick carpet. Not glide, never my V, Johnny amended to himself. He found her clumsiness endearing. As if the fates had heard him, Johnny heard the yelp that signified another Venus tumble and deftly reached out to catch her packages and her arm.
V looked up at Johnny and slapped his calf lightly when his eyes didn't even open. "How did you know I was doing that?" she asked in an amused voice. "And how did you know it was me?"
Johnny pulled V up effortlessly before answering. I heard the penthouse door open. Since the other one is empty I knew it had to be ours and Fluffy hasn't managed the art of door opening. She's a smart cat but she isn't that smart."
V smiled as Johnny referred to their cat. It was the cat that had brought them together. V had returned from her disastrous cruise with Simon Prentiss and had spent many a night walking on the docks. Yes, they were unsafe but she had craved the peace that walking near the water had offered. She had been making her nightly walk when she saw him, the muscular form struggling in the icy cold water. V had run to help immediately, not knowing what she might find.
She had never expected to find Sonny's bodyguard half drowned from rescuing a tiny kitten. They had worked together to save the kitten that night and when Johnny had come down with a terrible cold from exposure, V had moved in to help care for him and had never left. He had no family, and she felt partly responsible for his illness. He would have never been out in the cold so much if she hadn't tumbled into the harbor as soon as he was on solid ground.
When love had found them as fall turned to winter it had been a surprise to them both. Now, after a few months of a comfortable romance, V was amazed to realize that she was deeply committed to this man. Johnny West was unlike any man she had ever met, sensitive to a fault, yet deadly as circumstances warranted. Law-abiding Venus was in love with a man who protected notorious mobster Sonny Corinthos and she had never been happier.
"No Fluffy didn't. I was thinking we could do an indoor picnic." She said in a soft voice. She didn't really expect to get her way but she had to try.
Johnny's smile faded a little. "Venus I can't. I am still on duty and Sonny would be very upset if I left my post for any reason."
"Even this reason?" V answered as she leaned close to brush her lips against Johnny's. She was stepping on a particularly slick spot on the floor and swayed against Johnny. He smiled before kissing her back and caught her as she fell against him.
"Even that reason. I can eat here but I need to stay on post." Johnny sometimes had to be firm with V. It wasn't that she wanted him to get into trouble or anything, but she was often times a dreamer. The practicality of Johnny's job sometimes seemed to sometimes confuse V, even though he knew that she only had the best intentions in mind.
"Well then I'll eat here with you." V decided, opening up the picnic basket she had packed. As she unwrapped sandwiches of thick crusty bread, overfilling with cold cuts and vegetables Johnny breathed the yeasty scent in deeply. His woman treated him very well indeed.
~*~
"Carly Carly come on what's wrong?" Sonny had barely caught the mother of his child as she collapsed back onto the couch. He took in her pale features and the raw circles around her eyes as panic began to set in. "Leticia, what happened? Is she all right? Has she been eating?" Sonny shot questions to Michael's nanny in a rapid fire fashion.
Leticia hastily put Michael in his playpen. "Mr. Corinthos she was on the couch most of the day. Something seemed to have upset her."
Sonny bit his lip, considering his option for a moment. "Tell Johnny to bring the car around. We can get her to GH before an ambulance can get here."
Carly's eyes fluttered open slowly as she reoriented herself. I'm in Sonny's penthouse she thought, with relief. She had half expected to be in Helena's clutches already. "I don't need to go to GH." She said slowly as she reached for Sonny's arm.
"Yes you did." Sonny insisted. "You collapsed." He started to gather Carly to him, surprised when she pushed him away gently but firmly.
Carly sighed before speaking. "I haven't eaten today. Something happened and I um…" She looked at the couch. "What time is it?" she asked, knowing that the words sounded weak to her ears.
Sonny met Letitia's eyes. "Can you get some of the pasta salad for her." As Letitia rushed into the kitchen, Sonny rubbed Carly's hand comfortingly. "You gotta take better care of yourself."
Carly almost rolled her eyes at the absurdity of it all. Helena Cassadine was holding her little boy's life hostage and Sonny was worried about weather she was eating enough. "Look, I'm sorry ok?" she snapped, the stresses of the day shattering her composure. "I had a really tough day and I just forgot." She ran a hand through her hair and stared at the ceiling, in a vain attempt to avoid crying. "I need you to find someone. You're good at that right?' she asked in a trembling voice, wiping away a few stray tears.
"Depends on who I'm findin'." Sonny wanted to reach for her, but he knew she would reject any attempt at closeness.
Carly let out a deep breath she hadn't even been aware she'd been holding. "His name is Blade Williams and he lives in Florida. He's the only one who can get me out of this mess I'm in."
Chapter 3
Stefan Cassadine reclined in his bed and chewed a grape thoughtfully. Life was nearly wonderful now. Barbara was considering a move back to Wyndamere after their declaration of love. There might be problems with young Lucas and his acceptance of Stefan back into his life, but those problems would hardly be insurmountable.
The only potential problem would be that of Caroline. Stefan knew the hotheaded young woman would likely be shocked by the news of her genetic link to the Cassadines. As she seemed to be very hotheaded and impulsive in the Spencer tradition, she could well make problems for both families for quite some time. "The Spencers and Cassadines, bested by one young woman for a time." With an ironic chuckle, he turned back to one of the family diaries. They had become his favorite bedtime reading in a very short while. Stefan would not admit this secret pleasure to anyone, not even Barbara, but he was fascinated by the words of his family. He had no desire to be like them, but their words offered him some insight into their hearts and souls.
Stefan thought back to his deceased family members for a moment. Mikkos had been dead nearly twenty years now. His father had been so intelligent, yet so twisted. He had given his love freely to his sons, yet offered his wife only distain. Finally, insanity had claimed him, an offshoot of his insatiable need for power. Stefan still felt cheated some days, cheated out of a life as adult father and son. Some days he missed his flawed father so much. His Uncle Tony had been quietly sharp, a study in rationalization in the face of the Ice Princess mess. He had been closer in age to Stefan then to Mikkos. What a pity that he had been lost
so young.
Stefan turned his attention to his Uncle Victor for a moment. He had been the true brilliance in the family, a mathematical and scientific genius. Still, Victor had never broken his hero worship of Mikkos, and had been easily led into a plan in which he had been the only survivor. Stefan remembered with startling clarity the day twenty years ago when he and Stavros had instituted a meeting with Victor in jail. He had been so heartbroken by the events. It was no wonder that death had claimed him soon afterward. And Stavros, Stefan's own elder brother and the tragic Cassadine prince. He had always been blind to the similarities between himself and Mikkos. That in the end had been his downfall.
"Where was I?" Stefan said in a low voice. The gentle warmth of his voice was a comfort that he didn't realize he craved. "I am nothing like them." That assurance was all he needed. As his eyes skimmed the pages for some minutes, his body relaxed.
~*~
"Who is Blade Williams?" Sonny snapped as he watched Carly. She wasn't doing his ego much good when she asked for another man. "And why can't I help you? You don't want my help anymore?" Sonny didn't know why he was getting so jealous but what could this guy do for Carly that he couldn't. "What kind of name is Blade anyway?"
Carly said and ran a shaking hand through her hair. She'd had enough of staying calm. If Sonny wanted to attack her, then fine he could. She was beyond caring right now. "You can't help ok? Blade knows things that you don't about me."
"Like what things Carly." Sonny asked in a nasty tone. "Is he one of your many lovers?"
Carly looked at him for a long moment. She really did try to rein in her temper, but she was too emotionally battered. She stood on shaking legs and with a careless swing, delivered a surprisingly stinging slap to Sonny's cheek. "I am no ones whore." She said as tears again flowed unchecked down her cheeks.
"What the hell?" Sonny grabbed Carly's wrists in a bruising grasp. Some of his anger dissipated as he took in her haunted eyes and tearful expression. As Sonny leaned back on the couch, he pulled Carly's wrists gently, sparing a satisfied smile as she sank down next to him. "Now are you gonna tell me what's going on?" He was encouraged by the fact that she wasn't edging away from him but there was something in Carly's eyes that was very….un-Carly. She had never looked this haunted, or this hunted before.
Carly chewed on her lower lip and tucked a strand of air behind her ear. She couldn't possibly tell him everything yet, but how could she present Blade as what he was without raising his defensiveness? "Blade is a friend from Florida." She offered. "We grew up near one another."
"That's only part of the story." Sonny replied as he took the pasta salad from Letecia. "Can you bring Michael upstairs?" He asked slowly. Somehow it seemed as if Carly would be more at ease if she wasn't around her son. As the nanny disappeared with the little boy, Sonny could hear the sound of the fork scraping across the plate. "Come on Carly, you gotta eat. I'm a good cook. You know that by now." Teasing her in a soft voice, Sonny watched Carly's face for any glimmer of amusement. When he didn't get one, he realized just how serious the situation was. "Is AJ on your back again?"
"No this goes way beyond AJ." Carly declared as she began eating. She would refuse to answer any more of his questions until she had finished eating. "You should put some ice on that." She remarked, motioning to the scarlet handprint on his face. "I really popped you one." She didn't quite know why she felt so badly for hitting him, but she did. "Sorry.' She whispered before digging into the pasta salad one more time.
~*~
"So…" Alexis started as Luke entered his spacious bedroom. "Did Bobbie say with Carly's father is?' It was so impolite to be so curious about such a monumental fact, but in this issue, Alexis had no shame. The thought that the girl could be her half sister was frightening indeed, but on some level, Carly as a Cassadine explained so much.
"Not a word Darlin'." Luke said as he rubbed a red mark on his forehead. "She wants to tell the newest Cassadine herself. We get the news secondhand or maybe thirdhand. I'm sure the bat already knows." His expression soured as he thought of Stefan.
"Did Bobbie say why it was that Stefan answered her cell phone this morning?" Even if Luke wasn't ready to accept it, Alexis knew in her heart that Bobbie and Stefan were on the way to a reconciliation. But how would Luke take the news? Furthermore, how would Bobbie and Stefan take the news that she and Luke were involved?
"No she didn't." Luke frowned for a moment, wishing he had that answer before giving Alexis a naughty smile. "It seems someone branded me with her lipstick and Bobbie was much more interested in discussing her."
"Now who could that someone be?" Alexis teased with a smile. "How did she take the news Luke?" Her expression turned serious as she wondered if her plan had backfired.
"She was fine with it." Luke said offhandedly. "Don't you worry none darlin'. I don't care what anyone thinks. We're in this together right counselor?"
"Together." Alexis smiled innocently as her hand creeped toward Luke's ribs. As she made contact with his body, she rolled over, sitting atop him. It was good to hear him laugh. Luke had such a terrible time after Lucky's death that Alexis had found herself wondering if he would ever smile again. Hearing the tender happiness is his voice was like a breath of fresh air to her.
"Enough Alexis." Luke said with a cocky smile. "Now that we got the family business over with how about getting to the you and I business"
~*~
"Come on mom this will be fun." Emily tugged Monica's hand anxiously as they left the hospital. "You wanted to do a mother daughter night and I agreed."
"Why can't we go to the Grille?" Monica protested weakly. She loved spending time with her teenaged daughter and would go wherever the younger woman wanted to dine. This was a petty issue and one not even worth debating.
"You're telling me that Kelly's chilli won't warm you up mom. Come on. We'll have fun there and the atmosphere is the best." Emily gave her mother an easy smile, knowing she had won. She gently tugged on her mother's hand as they trudged through the thick snow.
Monica's hand tightened on Emily's as they walked. She was so thankful for this time together. Scant weeks ago she and Alan had been worried that Emily would leave the family. When Jason and Juan left town, Emily had seemed like a little girl lost. Gradually, she had found her way back to her family. It was a miracle that she had given them all another chance. Monica never wanted to be estranged from her daughter again, and, to that end, had instituted the girls night out,. Makeovers at Wyndhams would have to wait for another week, as the weather had not cooperated, but a nice dinner at a homey diner would be just what the doctor had ordered.
Blade Williams shivered dramatically as he strode toward the small diner at the end of the block. He hadn't expected New York to be quite so cold and had arrived at the Port Charles airport in shirtsleeves and a jean jacket. His first order of buisness had been to purchase some winter clothes. Even though he had on a tight fitting black turtleneck and a heavy leather bomber jacket the wind seemed to cut through him. He shivered mightily as he reached the door of the diner, holding it open for a blonde lady and a brunette younger woman.
"Thank you" Monica remarked with a smile to the man. It was so hard to find young people with manners these days.
"Anytime." Blade replied in a soft voice, offering the girl a big smile. As he entered the diner he took a seat at the counter.
"Mom wasn't he a hunk?" Emily chattered as she checked out the guy with the coppery hair. There was something about him that attracted her at first sight, even though he seemed somewhat older.
"A hunk?" Monica asked blankly. She couldn't take her eyes off the young man. There was something about him that stirred up long hidden desires in her. "Why now?" she said in a frustrated tone as memories of an idyllic time with a special man flooded her mind.
Emily was concerned about her mother's reaction. She seemed to be studying the guy intensely. "Mom? Mom? Is everything all right?"
Monica shook her head to rid herself of her love long lost and gave her daughter a smile. "I must have been daydreaming. " She assured with a smile. "Now what about that chilli?"
~*~
The man walked silently around Helena Cassadine's yacht. Since she was dining at the Grille, he had the ship to himself. As long as he didn't turn on any lights or walk on the docks, he should be safely hidden from view. Helena thought he was still taking the drugs that had been part of his life for many years, but this time he had outwitted her. "I will find my daughter Helena. You plan to destroy her will never succeed. " He hazarded a glance out to the twinkling lights of the Port Charles skyline. "Prepare yourselves residents of Port Charles. I have returned and this time I will not be bested."
Chapter 4
It took Bobbie Spencer much longer then anticipated to drive the short distance between Luke's Club and Harborview Towers. The weather was disintegrating by the moment and Bobbie found herself wondering if she should make the trip. Carly was bound to be upset, necessitating Bobbie spending significant amounts of time there. Would she be able to make the launch back to Wyndamere? She really needed to be with Stefan. Bobbie sighed dramatically as she tapped on the gas gently. "When did I become so selfish. If my daughter needs me I stay. There will be plenty of time for Stefan and I."
As Bobbie pulled into the Parking lot of the luxury complex she took a deep fortifying breath. "Oh Carly I know you're going to be angry but please understand."
~*~
"So what will it be?" V asked teasingly. "Roast beef and Brie or honey ham and cheddar." She held out both sandwiches invitingly, smiling with satisfaction as Johnny eyed them hungrily. One of his first purchases when they had moved in together had been that of a bread machine. V used the appliance almost every day, baking Sonny and Carly, Ned and Jax wonderfully fragrant fruit breads. She had just begun her foray into sandwich breads this week, and the sourdough she had produced was a sure-fire winner. Johnny inhaled deeply then pointed to the ham.
"The bread smells great." Johnny admitted before taking a huge bite. As the blend of flavors his this palate, he was hard pressed to stay composed. In that respect, he and V were very similar. Johnny swallowed before he allowed a grin to break the granite planes of his artfully face. "This is heaven Venus."
"Don't call me that." V replied automatically before digging in to her meal. The bread was a winner; she knew that after taking the first bite. As the flavors exploded on her tongue, V let out a sexy moan.
"You too huh?" Johnny asked with a small grin. He loved it when V was so uninhibited. He let out a small moan of his own before taking another bite of the sandwich. "Babe this is sublime."
"I know." V replied, a smile turning the corners of her mouth upwards. She rooted into the small picnic basket then shrieked with surprise as a small ball of fluff raced out. "Fluffy when did you sneak in there!" She watched in horror as the kitten raced every which way, the sound of V's voice echoing off the narrow walls.
"Come on Fluff." Johnny cajoled; knowing the lower register of his voice was more likely to calm the cat. With an exaggerated sigh, the bodyguard pulled out a piece of his ham, realizing with sick fascination that the corner of his sandwich had very kitten sized bite marks in it. "You already had some so I suppose it won't kill you to take another little piece."
Fluffy approached cautiously, sniffing the ham slowly before nibbling on a corner. As soon as the pint-sized terror had let her guard down, Johnny picked her up, holding her snugly to his chest. "I think we're sharing lunch with her V."
~*~
Laura Spencer was enjoying a working dinner after her shift at the hospital. Though the youth outreach program fluctuated between a resounding success and a virtual ghost town, Laura was confident that things would even out. The program wasn't even a year old yet and was still going through some growing pains. She and Dr. Collins would be discussing ways to even out the rough spots while keeping the focus on the teens over the Grille's best blackened salmon. Unfortunately, Kevin had been delayed, so Laura sipped her wine slowly as she anxiously watched the door. She hated dining alone.
Helena Cassadine walked confidently into the Port Charles grille, her handsome manservant guiding her to the best table. As she sat down, she surveyed the crowd. To some it would have appeared that the Cassadine matriarch was simply people watching, but in truth she was looking for her newest victim. Helena was in a good mood that would be made better by a cat and mouse game with one of the peasants of this small town. "Ah there is Laura Spencer. Shall we go pay our respects to her."
"Yes madame." Ari nodded as e guided Helena to the younger woman's table.
"Hello Laura." Helena said in a silky voice. "It is so nice to see you out and about." She eyed the two place settings with a feral smile. "Did Stefan miss another date darling, or is this the week that you are interested in a reconciliation with dear Luke?"
Laura blinked twice before responding, a practicied maneuver designed to show Helena that she was not phased. "I am waiting for a business colleague." She replied coolly.
"Oh yet another man in your life. How delightful." Helena clapped her hands together twice, before narrowing her eyes.
"Is he as needy and helpless as you then darling?" Her smile was a brittle counterpoint to the harshness of her words.
Laura winced and bit back a retort. It would not do her any good to lose control in the Grille. She looked up and felt relief course through her as the cavalry in the form of Kevin Collins arrived. He shot a look to Helena and Ari, assessing the situation with an almost imperceptible nod to Laura.
"Laura I am so sorry I was delayed." Kevin said as he moved to her side, depositing a kiss on her cheek.
"It happens." Laura replied as her shoulders untensed. "Helena was just leaving weren't you?"
Helena sighed, measuring the challenging look Kevin gave her before retreating to her table. "I will wipe that smug look off her face Ari." She vowed in a low voice.
~*~
Sonny watched as Carly ate her pasta salad slowly, as his frustration mounted. "Come on Carly just spill it." He finally said with a frustrated sigh.
Carly methodically chewed the last bite before speaking. "Sonny I need to talk to Blade OK. There's something on he can help me out with. Something happened when we were kids and he has the knowledge I need. He lives in Florida somewhere." She was somewhat calmer but knew that she was on the verge of a total mental collapse.
"So who is he?" Sonny pressed. He felt a fissure of guilt as her expression contorted again, but he had to know.
"He and Carly were my best friends OK? I haven't seen the guy since I came up here. We're just friends. Why are you so damn concerned anyway?" Carly asked. She much preferred hiding her emotions behind defensiveness. He couldn't see how badly off she was, not yet. Only Blade could. Only Blade knew what had happened that day all those years ago.
"He and who?" Sonny asked.
"Carly Roberts. My best friend. I took her name when I came here. She's dead now."
Sonny blinked at her in shock for a few moments then nodded. He'd get his answers later.
Carly sighed and wrapped her arms around herself, the memories threatening to overwhelm her.
Flashback
"It's me." Caroline choked out. "Someone was here and Blade, they killed Carly. I'm in trouble. Help me." Caroline's voice sounded strange to her ears, almost too tense. As soon as she discovered what the blond had done, her first thought was to call Blade. He had helped her and Carly countless times. Whenever there was a problem their first instinct was to call their friend. Blade was such a calming presence.
"How do you know this?" Blade asked in shock. "Caro tell me who it was."
"I can't! Just place come over here." She collapsed on the ground rocking back and forth and making keening noises.
Blade ran the short distance between homes and nearly broke the door open in his haste to get inside. When he found her on the floor, he gathered his best friend close into a tight embrace that promised only comfort. "What happened sweetheart?" He whispered into her hair.
End Flashback
Carly shook her head slowly, banishing the painful memories and the even more painful feeling of safety. She had to have him here. He was the man she could feel safety with. "I need Blade Sonny, as my friend. If you won't find him I'll find someone who will. Like Jason."
The word hung heavy in the air between them, before Sonny crossed the room, methodically poured a drink and turned away. Carly knew she had wounded him badly with her words.
~*~
Bobbie stepped out of the elevator onto the Penthouse level of Harborview Towers. As the door opened, her senses were tickled by the scent of food. "HI V Hi Johnny." she greeted as she stepped out, pausing a moment to pet the kitten. "That food smells fabulous." She added, watching the kitten as she chewed methodically on a piece of meat.
"Hi Bobbie." V said with a smile, handing over a wrapped sandwich. "It's roast beef and brie. Enjoy. I made enough to feed the whole building."
Bobbie gave the younger woman a smile. "Thank you, but I really can't accept this right now hon. Maybe later. Carly and I have some talking to do." V took note of Bobbie's serious expression and nodded.
"Then I should announce you." Johnny replied smoothly, rapping twice on the door. "Bobbie Spencer here to see Carly." He called out before Sonny could answer.
Chapter 5
Blade looked around the quaint diner as he felt the ladies eyes upon him. The place was nearly deserted save for a brunette at the counter. He ordered a bowl of chili and a coffee from her and tried to contain his shaking. The cold was insidious and complete, forcing every bit of warmth from his body. Even with the added layer of his new jacket, Blade was sure he would never get warm again.
Emily couldn't tear her eyes away from the man. There was something about him that screamed vulnerability as much as it did strength and the way he was shivering added a little boy quality to him. He must not be from the north, Em realized as she took in his sun kissed hair and tanned skin. "Mom who do you think he is?" She asked Monica. "And where do you think he's from? He kinda reminds me of someone."
Monica watched the young man for a moment. He reminded her of someone as well. Monica gave him a smile as she most fervently hoped that her suspicions were right. If so, the man could use a new ally. He was so alone.
Blade looked at the pair of women again as the waitress delivered his food. As the aroma of spiced meat hit him, he turned to the brunette. "Hey do you know Caroline Benson or Carly Roberts?" Blade had never approved of his best friend assuming her other friend's name but they had a relationship free of judgments. He had taken her change in names in stride as he had done many of Caroline's other schemes.
Liz Webber looked at the guy strangely. She'd never seen him before and he reminded her so much of someone. If she didn't know better…. She shook her head slightly then pointed to Emily and Monica. "I can't help you but maybe they can."
Blade turned to look at the mother and daughter then nodded. "Thanks." He said, giving the young brunette a smile. He spent a few moments wondering why her frosty expression was directed toward him, then got up and approached the ladies.
Emily's eyes widened when she saw Liz talking to the mysterious man. "Wonder what they're discussing." She said then almost swallowed her tongue as the man approached their table. "Mom, mom he's coming over here. How do I look?"
Blade moved quickly over to the table, glancing with slight apprehension to the younger woman then the elder one. As he reached their table, he put his hands behind his back. "Hello, my name is Blade Williams." He said as he smiles at both of them. "Do either of you know Carly Roberts?"
Monica looked up at the young man blankly. His voice…she was amazed Emily or Elizabeth hadn't picked up on his voice or his obvious resemblance to his father. She hesitated for a moment then motioned to the empty chair at their table. "Please join us Mr. Williams. Are you new to town?"
Emily glared at her mother. Was she already flirting with the guy? "I'll be right back." She muttered and grabbed Blade's chili and drink. "What did he want?" she asked to Elizabeth who was standing at the counter.
"He was asking questions about Carly." Liz replied as she rolled her eyes. Neither young woman was part of the Carly Robert's fan club. "Think he's some hit man or maybe her new boyfriend? And why is your mom all weird over him."
"That, Elizabeth is the million-dollar question."
~*~
Lucky Spencer looked up as someone entered the cabin of Helena's yacht where he was kept. He gave his companion a small smile when he saw it was his roommate. "They're gone to dinner I suppose? We can't get away today then; " he inquired as he studied the world weary face of his companion.
They have. We have twelve guards though. We must bide our time Lucky. Tonight is not the night to get away. You are too weak and I am still recovering myself.
Lucky sighed and looked at his dark haired companion. "But we both have things to do. I have to get word to my family and my girlfriend that I'm alive and you have to stop her somehow."
"Rest assured son, I will stop her if it is the last thing I do." The man gave Lucky a long look before pouring them each a glass of the best Russian vodka. "I had dismissed you as enemy on sight Lucky Spencer but you have been the strongest of allies. We drink now, to a future with our families united to stamp out the evil that lurks in Helena. Our families are bound by blood in many different ways."
"And one more if you and Stefan fight for my aunt's affections." Lucky pointed out this fact and watched his companion's expression. When the man tensed, Lucky nodded. "I thought that was your plan."
"I have many plans Lucky. Finding an appropriate bride is just one of them." With a toss of his head, he downed his vodka. "Perhaps tomorrow we will escape. Until then, rest boy. You will need your strength. As the young man drifted off, he began to formulate his next course of action.
~*~
"Bobbie's here." Sonny muttered as he swirled his drink slowly. "You wanna see her?" he turned back to Carly, his expression now stoic. She had wounded him greatly when she said that she could get Jason's help. She had never used Jason quite that badly against him. He could not let her see how badly hurt he was, because Carly would use that against him in the end. Any weakness was manipulated and used for her own means. "Well?" Sonny asked as Carly stared out into space blankly.
"What?" Carly asked. She kept thinking about the day when all of her trouble had started. It was as if her memories were rushing forward like a crushing wave, covering her with insecurity, anger and guilt.
"Your mother is here." Sonny replied slowly. "Do you want to see her?"
Carly blinked a couple of times and then whispered a yes. How fitting that her mother, the person that had been hurt the most from Helena's machinations was coming for a visit.
Johnny opened the door and Bobbie stepped through, noting the tension between the couple immediately. "Did I come at a bad time?" She shook the snow off her coat carefully then removed it, folding the sodden wool garment and holding it close to her chest in a defensive motion which was somehow so similar to Carly.
"I think we're ok." Sonny admitted. "You two want some privacy? I can get you something warm to drink Bobbie, hot chocolate, hot toddie, coffee?"
"No Sonny what I have to say impacts both of you. Please stay?" Bobbie wanted to ask him to sit close to her daughter, but one glance at the tension written all over Carly's face made her abandon that idea.
Bobbie settled down on the couch on one side of Carly and motioned silently for Sonny to sit on the other side "What's going on with you two? Did you have a fight?"
Carly turned to her mother, speaking to her for the first time since the older woman's arrival. "No momma not exactly. He's being overprotective and possessive and I don't care for it."
Sonny tried to hold his tongue but he just couldn't lie to Bobbie about this. "Yeah after you collapsed because you hadn't eaten all day I have a right to be worried." He turned his attention to Bobbie. "All she's had to eat is some pasta salad that I forced on her a few minutes ago. And she seems kinda spaced out."
Carly's eyes flashed angrily. "You want another slap Sonny? I am not spaced out. I'm fine, just tired. This kid is draining all my energy ok?"
Bobbie sighed. She hadn't even delivered her news and this conversation wasn't going well at all. "Can we please focus on something here. Carly I have something to tell you if you'll stop fighting with Sonny. It's pretty big news so I need all of your attention ok."
"Of course." Carly muttered as her nostrils flared in anger. "You never come here to socialize momma. Why should you now?" She stood up and walked around the apartment like a caged animal.
"She's been like this for over an hour." Sonny shared. "I don't know what to do." He started to rise, then thought the better of it, sinking back to the couch and resting a finger against his forehead as he watched her pace. "Should we wait for her to calm down. Is this news gonna upset her more?"
"Possibly." Bobbie admitted with a sigh. "But she has to know it now Sonny. It's not something that can wait."
"I wish you luck then." Sonny replied as he glanced toward his could be mother in law. "Cause with the mood she's in you'll need it!" He had never seen Carly quite so on the edge and didn't even know where to begin in calming her down. "Hey Bobbie do you know someone named Blade? Carly keeps asking for him."
Bobbie frowned in concentration before shaking her head. "That is a very unique name. I'd remember if I heard it before. Sorry Sonny I have no idea who Blade is." She watched Carly for a few more moments. "I have to stop this." She stood up and stepped into Carly's path. "Carly I need you to calm down and listen to me. I have something important to tell you, ok? Whatever's going on will pass, but this cannot wait."
Carly took a long breath and let it out slowly. "All right momma." She said even though she was sure that her mother was mistaken. Nothing could be as serious as what she was going through. "What's your news?"
Bobbie moved instinctively closer to her daughter and was relieved when she saw Sonny doing the same on Carly's other side. "Honey I just learned today who your father is. Do you want to know?"
"My father?" Carly could never have expected this news. Yeah tell me now momma."
Chapter 6
The older man watched Lucky as he slept for some time. He had truly become a man of honor. The way Lucky had dealt with Helena's torture would have felled a man of greater years. Lucky's gritty determination had done him well. The tears and self-pity had come, but those times had been when Helena was away from them. And in truth, her tactics had felled both men at times. He was old enough to be Lucky's father, and he too was emotionally drained from the stress of dealing with the harridan.
"Sleep son." The man said quietly before assuming his position in his wheelchair. Helena thought him helpless, so helpless he would be. It would increase their likelihood of survival when the escaped. Helena would never expect to be facing down two able bodied men. The man reached over to run his fingers through Lucky's hair. They were a strange couple indeed. Their time together had made fast friends out of the men. He trusted and respected Lucky as much as he would any natural child and knew that the bond that had been forged went two ways. Lucky trusted him, had learned to respect him. That was vital in their mission. They had to get free. Much needed to be done. He needed to protect his loved ones from the very evil that was Helena Cassadine. His daughter would not be the next victim!
As the plans for escape became clear in his mind, the man smiled into the darkness. As soon as the weather cleared they would do it; they would escape. He was so lost in his thoughts of a future beyond Helena's hell that he barely registered the sounds that signaled the witch's return to the yacht. It had been far too soon, he thought as he rearranged his features into a drugged gaze and made his limbs go limp.
He had just settled himself as Helena swept in, brushing loose snow from her fur coat. "Ari please get me some champagne. I am positively chilled."
"Yes Madam." Ari said with a small nod. He would have to get the cutlery ready for their dinner as well. After Laura had bested her, the older lady had insisted upon calling in an order to the Grille. The water shuttle driver would be expected to deliver the meal hot and intact. Ari was glad she hadn't expected him to stay there. He would sit in on her baiting session of their prisoners, since anything was better then going out into the bitter cold again. He methodically took her fur coat and hung it up, then returned with a chilled flute of champagne. She was eyeing the two men speculatively but it appeared she had not started baiting them.
Why she persisted in this behavior mystified Ari. The older one was drugged into near catatonia while the younger never allowed her to get to him. She always ended these sessions frustrated by Lucky's lack of a response. Ari usually got the brunt of her frustration as it turned to anger. She always wanted to take him to bed when she was angry. Ari shuddered at the thought of being in bed with that wrinkled old prune. He had to make a break from her and soon!
Helena slunk onto the bed, giving the man in the wheelchair a look before leaning over to kiss Lucky. Behind glazed eyes, anger flashed, but the man was careful not to show his displeasure. They were so close to escaping now. When Lucky started awake, Helena kissed him again, more deeply, lingering on his firmly closed mouth.
"What do you want?" Lucky pushed away from the woman and walked to stand beside the wheelchair. He couldn't take much more of this!
"I want to talk darling." Helena said as she lounged on his bed. "Don't be so difficult. I wanted to spend some time with my two favorite men." She reached over and caressed the comatose man's thigh in a familiar fashion.
"That's so sick." Lucky spat out. "Leave him alone, he can't defend himself!"
"Perhaps not, but all of his parts are in working order." Helena gave her young charge a look. "He submitted after a time and you will too. With or without the need for drugs."
"I'll never submit!" Lucky looked around wildly. As Helena's hand was journeying up his friend's thigh, Lucky became more frantic. He knew the older man would never tolerate this. They had to get out and now. "We'll never submit." He said in a firm tone before squeezing his ally's shoulder. He had to realize that the time for leaving was now. Lucky was vaguely aware of Ari's presence behind him as he turned and bolted out the door, hoping like heck that his friend would follow.
~*~
Carly took a long breath and let it out slowly. "All right momma." She said even though she was sure that her mother was mistaken. Nothing could be as serious as what she was going through. "What's your news?"
Bobbie moved instinctively closer to her daughter and was relieved when she saw Sonny doing the same on Carly's other side. "Honey I just learned today who your father is. Do you want to know?"
"My father?" Carly could never have expected this news. Yeah tell me now momma."
Bobbie bit her lip and met her daughter's eyes for a long moment. "Are you sure you're ready?"
Carly's eyes widened in shock. "You had better not hold out on me." She said in a low voice. "I have been waiting for this for far too long mother. Don't you dare do this to me."
Bobbie sighed and nodded. "Carly I was asking because you seemed stressed hon. I play on letting the suspense end now. I'm not some kind of mean ogre hon.," She said brushing her daughter's hair back.
"So who is he?" Carly asked in a rush.
"And how did you find out who he was?" Sonny added.
"It's a long story.' Bobbie began quietly. "Let's get the basics out of the way first. Then we can all try to figure this out."
Carly tucked her hair behind her ear and nodded nervously. As she clutched her hands in her lap, Sonny reached for the, squeezing lightly. She didn't know what to feel. She was torn between happiness and stress, between the wonder of having one of her forever questions answered and being afraid of the truth. What if it was someone horrible?
Bobbie brushed her daughter's golden hair back and took a deep breath before speaking. "Your father is no longer with us Carly. He died quite some years ago." Bobbie began. This was so hard. She knew her daughter wouldn't react well to being a Cassadine and a part of her wanted to lie. Still, she had come over for a reason and she had to see this through, whatever the cost.
As Bobbie began to speak, the lights flickered once then twice. She glanced to Sonny, making sure he had a firm grip on her daughter. She hesitated until Sonny's hands tensed and nodded, mouthing thanks to the man.
"Your father is Stavros Cassadine." Bobbie said as the lights went out, leaving the room in inky darkness.
~*~
"Why are you so interested in Carly?" Monica asked casually as she eyed the man. The more she watched him, the more she became convinced of his paternity.
Blade shrugged casually and blushed a little, his fair skin turning a dark rose. He ran a hand through his russet hair before speaking. "Why do I get the feeling she isn't exactly a favorite of yours?"
Monica swallowed before continuing, her penetrating gaze on the young man. "Because she ruined my sons' lives. Be careful around her."
Blade flashed Monica a smile that almost weakened her knees. It was so reminiscent of the man she believed was his father that she gasped. "Everything ok?" Blade asked as she nodded rapidly and gulped some ice water. "Carly is an old friend of mine from Florida. Can I ask what she did to your sons?"
"I can't take this anymore." Emily muttered to Elizabeth as she watched her mother go into high flirt gear. She grabbed Blade's plate and thumped it onto the table. "Here" Her growl was most ungracious but she didn't care for the moment. "Mom I need to speak to you, now." Blade started to get up, buts he shook her head to him. "You eat, we'll be right back." Blade blinked rapidly but wisely didn't comment.
Monica allowed her furious daughter to pull her into the diner's kitchen before asking the question that was hovering on her lips. "Emily what exactly is this about?" Her emotions were in turmoil and she couldn't fathom what her daughter's problem was. As it was, she never understood teenage girls, not even her own.
"You were flirting with a man young enough to be your son." Emily spat. "It's disgusting. What would dad think?"
"Flirting?" Monica's jaw fell open. "Hardly honey. I was just getting to know the young man."
"What happens next, you'll get to know him in bed?" Emily sneered.
Monica was appalled. "Never honey! I'm just being friendly not flirtatious. I have no designs on him that way."
"Yeah right mom." Emily stormed out of the kitchen and sat close to Blade. "So what's this about Carly?' she asked. Heightened emotion brought a glow to her cheeks beyond anything a blusher could accomplish and her eyes shone as a film of unshed tears coated her eyes. She watched her mother slowly return to the table. The way Monica looked at the young man curiously, but she seemed to be toning her act down a little.
Blade watched the exchange of unspoken words and emotions as he silently ate his food. "She's an old friend of mine from Florida.' He explained for a second time. "And I remember that she moved up here a few years ago so I was hoping to see her again."
"I think her dance card is quite full." Monica remarked dryly. She wasn't about to let this man go. Carly wouldn't get her hooks into him.
"Oh we're not like that. We're just friends. "Blade assured. "Can you tell me what your experience was with her?"
"Do you have all day?" Emily replied in a light tone.
~*~
"How did your sister take the news Luke?" Alexis' expression turned serious as she wondered if her plan had backfired.
"She was fine with it." Luke said offhandedly. "Don't you worry none darlin'. I don't care what anyone thinks. We're in this together right counselor?"
"Together." Alexis smiled innocently as her hand creeped toward Luke's ribs. As she made contact with his body, she rolled over, sitting atop him. It was good to hear him laugh. Luke had such a terrible time after Lucky's death that Alexis had found herself wondering if he would ever smile again. Hearing the tender happiness is his voice was like a breath of fresh air to her.
"Enough Alexis." Luke said with a cocky smile. "Now that we got the family business over with how about getting to the you and I business"
"The you and I business?" Alexis teased with a smile. "But Luke I'm hungry and I need some extra stuff from my suite." Her hand roamed over his back as she snuggled close. She didn't really want to leave, even though her stomach was protesting.
"What do you need that could possibly be that important?" Luke questioned as he pressed closer.
Alexis sighed and looked away for a moment. "My mail, my clothes and my birth control pills?' She tried. "And hey buster you owe me a dinner."
As the memory of their night of passion entered Luke's skull, all he could do was grin. "I see that I do." He remarked with a cocky grin. "All right then, counselor, to the Port Charles hotel we go. We'll eat at the Grille then get your stuff." He regarded her with a suddenly vulnerable expression. "You are plannin' on stayin'?" he asked in an uncertain voice.
Alexis reflexively held him closer. It was obvious that he had no idea how his heartfelt words were touching her soul. "If you want me to stay Luke, I'd love to stay." Alexis assured in her gentlest tone. If her soul hadn't already been his, the gently plaintive words from the lonely soul would have endeared Alexis to him for all time.
"I'm askin'." Luke's voice wavered. Alexis looked closer and saws that his eyes were moist with unshed tears.
"What's wrong?" her hand gently stroked his hair.
"Good things don't happen to me anymore darlin'. Before you." He shrugged helplessly. "I had nothing. I lost it all."
"Before me." Alexis said firmly. "Now good things will happen Luke. I'll always be by your side."