Homecoming
(Sequel to Wedding Day that Was and prequel to A New Day Dawns)
Part I
A Year Later"You'll be here right?" Elizabeth asked as she paced in front of the penthouse window with the cordless gripped tightly in one hand while she used the other to support her back. Her walking was more like waddling. Some women were lucky to barely get a belly when they became pregnant. She wasn't, but then again the fact that she was having twins only caused her to balloon more.
"I said I'd be," the soft feminine voice on the other side of the world assured her.
"Sorry for not believing you Em, but your last two trips had to be suddenly called off," Elizabeth said a bit more nastily than she intended since the boys, at least she thought they were boys, chose that moment to resume their kicking.
"You know Andrew got sick …""Andrew is a damn kangaroo! Besides you're not a vet. You just work in promotions."
"Can I help it if the little guy thinks I'm his mother? I was the one who had to go around wearing a fake pouch for six months," Emily replied dryly.
"Try wearing a real one," Elizabeth shot back.
Emily smiled; bickering with her friend made her feel like she was home. "I've promised a zillion times that I wasn't going to miss my newest godchild's birth. It would be unsafe for me to break that many."
"In more ways than one, because if I have to jump on a plane and track you down just so I can yell at you in person – I will!"
"I know. I know," Emily chuckled. "Now as much fun as this has been, I do have some work to finish up before my flight tomorrow."
"Just hurry okay? The doctor said Alexis could go into labor any day now. You're really cutting it close."
~*~
Port Charles Hotel"So which would you prefer, purple or silver," Courtney asked Skye as she held up the sample material.
"Court it's your wedding," Skye said as flipped through some files. Her loving husband was making a play for ELQ just to annoy her family. It was always fun watching Edward squirm, but AJ had insisted on her help. She knew whatever Jax had left in the penthouse would have little to do with ELQ, but it was still worth a try.
"You're the one whose going to be wearing the dress," she pointed out, "but if you want me to pick there is this lovely pink taffeta …"
"On second thought," Skye said turning and snatching the materials out of Courtney's hands, "this is much more important."
"You know Jax didn't leave anything here," Courtney laughed.
"As his assistant you know this for a fact," Skye inquired as she studied the fabric carefully.
"Like I'm going to tell you." Courtney checked her watched and frowned at the time. "Listen keep those and call me later."
"Wait where are you off too?"
Gathering her collection of everything wedding, Courtney smiled over at Skye. "Family dinner tonight. It will probably be the last one before the baby."
Skye rolled her eyes. "Why you'd even want to …"
"Shut up Skye," Courtney said playfully. "I could say a few choice words about your family."
"Fine," she sighed. "But be sure to tell Mr. and Mrs. Corinthos that I said hi."
"Oh, I'm sure they'll love to hear that," Courtney remarked sarcastically.
~*~
Penthouse 1"So," Alexis whispered to Elizabeth. It wasn't that Emily's visit was a secret, but the two figured it was better not to talk about her around Zander.
"My belly is definitely bigger than yours," Elizabeth answered as she looked disgustedly over at Alexis' smaller stomach. "Five months pregnant and my belly is bigger than yours at full term."
"Elizabeth," she hissed. "The phone call."
"Oh that," she said smiling sheepishly, "she'll be here."
"Two pregnant women conspiring can't be good," Zander said from the other side of the room, loud enough for Alexis and Elizabeth to hear.
"It's probably about food. That's Alexis' favorite subject these days," Sonny said teasingly.
"Is not," Alexis protested. A moment later her stomach growled and the room filled with laughter.
"There you are," Elizabeth said happily as Jason entered the penthouse. She struggled to get up from the couch, but he reached her before she could. Jason leaned down and wrapped his arms around her. With his help it only took a moment until she was standing. She draped her arms around his neck as he held her close him.
"Hi," he said softly before kissing her.
"Do you have to do that in my living room," Alexis asked after a moment. "I mean there is such a thing as too sweet. And why don't you come up for air. The babies need it after all. Besides its stuff like that, that gave Elizabeth that extremely large belly she was just complaining about."
"If you wanted a kiss why didn't you say so," Sonny asked walking over to her.
"Oh no! Not until I get my dinner! Your kisses always get out of hand and I'm hungry!"
Sonny laughed, "See food is more important than me."
"Damn straight," Alexis teased. Then turning back to Elizabeth and Jason she continued, "Now you two stop already. One fire in the room is more than enough."
"Do I even want to know," Courtney asked as she entered the penthouse.
"No you don't," Zander replied as he headed over to greet her.
"Don't you two start now! I won't have it … Sonny," she squealed when he capture her lips. Pushing him away she pouted. "I'm hungry."
"Me too," he growled before claiming her lips again.
"Shall we join the fun," Zander asked.
Courtney laughed, "By all means," she said pulling his face down to hers.
~*~
The Next DayOn a Plane
"You know I hate lying," Emily grumbled to her partner.
"Come on Em, you know Sonny and Jason would flip if they knew what you were really doing," Lucky said as put the finishing touches on their report. Spain was nice, their mission there had been rather easy and the accommodations comfortable. Better than a lot of the places they had been, but he was glad to be getting a break. "Just be happy that the WSB said they leave them alone as long as they stay out of guns and drugs."
"Easy for you to say Spencer," she snorted. They were the only passengers in first class on the early morning flight. She had been enjoying the quiet, and the faint smell of leather from the seat. It reminded her of her brother, her own leather jacket, and the high-speed rides they used to take on his bike. She was glad to be going home. She had been away from Jason and Elizabeth, Lila, and Michael for too long.
"What," Lucky asked turning to look at her. "Its not like my family has always been on the right side of the law."
"True. Luke never learned, and if I remember correctly you had a few brushes with the dark side," she teased.
"Does this look it a space fantasy to you? I think you've watched Star Wars way too often Quartermaine."
Emily pouted. Grateful to be in the window seat she turned her head and stared out the window. "Do they know you're coming?"
"Yeah I called last night. Lulu's excited, and mom's promised a big family dinner. She even called Nikolas and he's gonna end his business trip early. In fact he and Gia should be on their way from Greece as we speak," his own voice was filled with exhilaration as he thought about seeing his family again. It had been over a year.
"Are you gonna tell them?"
"What? That Frisco recruited me into the WSB, and than you got mixed up in it in Asia. I'm sure that would go over really well. Almost getting you killed …"
"I was the one who blew your cover," she interrupted him. "If not for that I might have actually made it to Australia."
"And hanging out with kangaroo Andrew," Lucky joked. Her cover for missing trips home was quite amusing and unbelievable. Why anyone bought was still a mystery.
"So partner, do you know if Frisco is gonna offer me a real job, because I'm tired of freelancing."
"It pays better though," Lucky pointed out. "Besides I thought you wanted to settle down. I mean that's all you talked about in Chile."
"If I remember correctly some drug dealers were about to kill us. If the cavalry hadn't shown up we would have been toast," she reminded him.
"Em its not like I don't like having you for my partner. Hell you're one of the few people I trust completely anymore, but if this isn't the life you want … don't become an agent." His blue eyes were intent on her, but she was still staring idly out the window. "Did you hear that?"
"Loud and clear," she replied softly. Sighing she turned back to him. "This trip will help me decide."
"Em," he said gently. "The guy is engaged … the wedding is only a couple months away. Do you expect him to just walk away from his fiancée? Who may I remind you is Sonny's sister."
"You don't have to remind me," Emily said shaking her head. "Besides it's not about Zander. This trip is about being there for my godchild's birth and for me to see if I'm able to deal with my family. Don't get me wrong … I love them. I always will. I just have to find out if I can still like them after what happened. Can I be around them, and have a life in Port Charles?"
Lucky took her hand in his own, offering comfort and support. "I know that's what you want, a life in good old Port Chuck. I hope you get it, Em."
~*~
Quartermaine MansionWhy she had agreed to become a part of this messed up family again was beyond her, but love did strange things. She knew that better than most. It was love that had her hanging on to Jason when she knew a relationship was impossible. It was love that had her marrying Sonny when she didn't even know how he really felt about her. And it was love that led her back to the father of her child. The same man she had hated and tried to keep from her baby.
He could be cold and ruthless. Carly knew AJ had lied about Zander, but he had his reason and strangely enough she could see both sides. But her relationship with AJ had almost destroyed her friendship with Zander.
There was still so much pain and love Zander carried around over Emily. And now he was planning on marrying Courtney. It wasn't the right decision for him in Carly's mind. Some love was just too strong, too powerful, and too lasting – that it couldn't be let go. She had seen that with her Uncle Luke, and again when her mother reunited with Tony.
But how was she going to save her friend from the biggest mistake of his life?
"Carly," AJ called out as he entered the house. "Mom. Dad. Michael. Come on everyone," he yelled eagerly. "I've got some great news!"
Hurrying in from the patio she called out, "What is it?"
AJ caught his wife in his arms; lifting her he spun her around. A grin played on his face and his eyes sparkled with happiness. "Love you," he said softly before capturing her lips. Exhilarated by his mood, Carly threw herself into the kiss. Passion sizzled between them.
"Gross," Michael, complained when he entered the room.
Laughing, AJ ended the kiss and set Carly back down. His arm stayed around her waist. "Daddy's got good news Mr. Man," Carly informed her son. "Now spill," she said her dark full of curiosity.
"Not until the rest of family gets here," AJ replied.
"Come on tell us," Carly pleaded tugging on his jacket.
"Yeah Daddy tell us," Michael echoed. He loved helping his mother get secrets from his Dad. "Please?"
"You bellowed Junior," Ned asked as he entered the room with Edward and Lila. He had been having a nice tea with his Grandmother when Edward came to harass him about help with ELQ. But he was tired of the family business and had no intentions of going back.
"What is it AJ? Have you gotten Jax to back off," Edward asked his one-track mind, set in business mode.
"Its better than that," AJ hinted.
"What could be better than that," Edward blustered.
"Edward dear, I would appreciate if you would leave business alone for a while," Lila said to stop the inquisition she knew her husband would impose.
"Of course dear," he replied turning into a teddy bear to please her.
"Were we called," Alan asked as he and Monica entered the room. Her blonde hair was messy, and his shirt not buttoned properly. They could all tell what AJ had interrupted.
"Yes. I have great news," AJ informed them.
"Well don't keep us waiting," Edward replied gruffly.
"I got a call from Emily …"
"Did she sound well?"
"How is she?"
"Has she told you what she's been up too?"
"Why doesn't the girl have the decency to call more often? Her Grandmother worries so."
"Stoooooooooooooooooooooooop," Michael yelled, ending the round of rapid-fire questions. He could barely tell who was asking what, with them all talking at the same time. All the Q's complied with his rather loud request. "Now," he said rubbing his small hands together in excitement. His aunt had kept in touch with him, and sent him a bunch of weird stuff. And while they were in Prague on one of his Dad's business trip, she just showed up and they had a blast. He couldn't wait to see her again. "When is she gonna be here?"
"Her flight lands later tonight, and she'll be by tomorrow for breakfast," AJ answered.
"Lila you must talk to cook. She'll have to make all of Emily's favorites," Edward said already planning for the return of his granddaughter. She'd be back in the mansion in under a week.
~*~
Pittsburgh International Airport"Not bad," Lucky said looking around the massive airport. It was just as nice as Heathrow, but not nearly as large and crowded.
"Are you sure you don't want the direct flight," Emily asked, as they stood by the gate.
"Nah, the stop in New York gives me time to stop at FAO Schwartz. I'm sure I can find something there Lulu would love."
"Just try not to buy out the whole store for yourself," she jibed him. Their last trip there was forever etched in her memory.
"Yuck it up Quartermaine," Lucky grumbled. "I'll get in touch with you in a few days … say a bump in at Kelly's?'
"Works for me," Emily replied as they made the last call for her flight.
Lucky gave her a quick hug. They had been joined at the hip for practically a year; been through so much during that time it was going to be strange not having her with him. Part of him wanted her to find peace with her family so she could settle in Port Charles, but another part of him wanted to keep his partner. "Have a good flight."
"You too," she replied giving him a squeeze before she let go to head for her plane.
~*~
Port Charles Hotel"I heard you were snooping," Jax said catching his lovely wife off guard. He was only slightly annoyed by her antics. Her loyalty to the Q's was unwavering. Why? Well that was the sixty-four thousand dollar question, they were a like a pack of hyenas. More than willing to fight among themselves, but when the whole brood was threaten they worked together to rid themselves of the outside threat.
"What ever gave you that idea?" she asked trying to sound undisturbed by the question.
"A little birdie." Jax grinned when he saw agitation cross her face. Skye, as he himself preferred direct answers. The easiest way to annoy her was not to give them to her.
"You're charm is wearing thin," she shot back, her hazel eyes flaring. "Besides all is fair in love and business."
"Really," Jax asked sauntering to her. "Anything?" Holding back the sudden wariness she felt, Skye answered in the affirmative. "Well then wife," he said wrapping his arms around her and pulling her close. "How do you feel about evasion tactics?"
"Depends on what you have in mind," she replied breathlessly.
Leaning down so that their lips were just inches apart he replied, "Oh, I think you know." His hands began to travel up and down her back, soothing and arousing at the same time.
"That's not fair," she moaned, as his hands fisted in her hair.
"You forgot that there aren't any rules," Jax reminded her before his lips slammed into hers.
~*~
Penthouse 1"Sonny," Alexis screeched from the living room. He had just left and she hoped to catch him before he was gone from the building.
"Mrs. Corinthos," Johnny asked rushing into the penthouse. "What's wrong?"
"What's wrong!? My water breaks and my husband isn't around – Gee, Johnny what could possible be wrong with this picture?"
Hurrying to the phone he called down to Francis. He didn't even wait for Francis' standard greeting. "Mrs. Corinthos is in labor. Son—Mr. Corinthos needs to get back up here. Now!"
~*~
Four Hours Later"Talk about a close call," Elizabeth scolded as Emily, with Manny right behind her, rushed into the waiting room.
"Could I help it that my plane had to make an emergency landing? A man was having a heart attack for goodness sake!"
"How rude of him," Elizabeth remarked hugging her friend tightly to her. "Well you didn't miss anything too important. Just Alexis cursing Sonny … something about forcing him to have cosmetic surgery so his dimples would never get to her again."
"Well I hope the second act is just as enjoyable," Emily said as she squirmed in the embrace. Elizabeth was squeezing her way too tight, and Jason was standing just a few feet from her waiting his turn. "You know I love you Elizabeth but can I go say hello to my brother?"
Grumbling Elizabeth let her go and watched as she rushed to Jason. She also noticed how Zander was looking at her. Good thing Courtney didn't, she was too busy trying to calm a nervous Mike down.
"I've missed you so much," Emily whispered, holding Jason tighter than Elizabeth had held her.
"Me too," Jason replied ignoring the slight pain her grip caused.
"It's a boy," Sonny announced as he hurried out of the delivery room.
"How is he," Mike asked jumping up from the couch.
"He perfect," Sonny said hugging his father happily. It was on of the few embraces they shared, and its impromptu nature only made it more special to Mike.
"When do we get to see him," Courtney asked joining the family hug.
"In a few minutes … look I need to get back to Alexis …"
"Go already then," they told him. Sonny beamed and kissed his sister's cheek. He looked over at Jason and nodded, words weren't needed. Spotting Emily, he rushed over to give her a quick hug before he went back to his wife. Once the proud papa was gone the small group gathered around to congratulate the new grandpa and aunt.
Elizabeth was the only one to notice how Zander and Emily couldn't keep their eyes off each other.
~*~
Spencer Residence"There's my boy," Luke said proudly as he engulfed Lucky in a bear hug.
"Hey Dad," Lucky greeted, returning the hug. After that he didn't get a pause in greetings for ten minutes. His mother practically refused to let him go. Lulu nearly choked him to death after getting her present. Amy smothered him with kisses. Thankfully, his Grandmother and Nikolas weren't as rough on him. And when he thought he escaped, Bobbie, Tony and Lucas showed up.
A buzz of voices filled the house, as he had to fill each arrival in on what he had been doing. He was grateful when his mother served dinner. Nothing got between a Spencer and food; and that included conversation.
"So little brother," Nikolas said finally getting him alone.
"What's with the grin," Lucky asked warily.
"Oh, just wanted to know the answer to the question that everyone is dying to ask, but won't."
"Which would be?"
"If you've moved on from Elizabeth and if you're seeing anyone?"
"I shouldn't have asked," Lucky muttered. "Is yes and no a good enough answer?"
"Details would be nice," Nikolas said slinging his arm over Lucky's shoulder.
"Live vicariously through someone else," Lucky retorted.
"I'm more than happy where I am," Nikolas replied.
"What the heck is that," Lucky asked jumping away from his brother. Something buzzed him.
"My phone, its been going off like that every ten minutes or so?"
"Shouldn't you check it?"
"Its probably Stefan wanting to know why I skipped out early," he said making a face. "I don't want to deal with business tonight. Tonight is about catching up with my brother. Everything else can wait."
~*~
The Next MorningGeneral Hospital
"Sorry I didn't get here sooner," Nikolas said as he entered Alexis' hospital room with a bouquet of every lily imaginable. "But Lucky came home last night and…"
"Nikolas," Alexis laughed. She glowed with happiness; and since the pain was behind her she no longer wanted Sonny to go through with the dimple removal surgery. She decided rationally that she'd miss them too much. "Its okay, really. Now give me a hug," she said opening her arms.
Hurrying over, Nikolas set the flowers down on her lap before embracing her. "Congratulations Mom."
"Mom," she said softly, grinning like a fool. "I like the sound of that?"
"So," Nikolas asked scooting a chair over. "Where's your entourage?"
"Off drooling at the baby," she answered as she picked up her flowers. Lilies had been her mother's favorite, and she was touched that Nikolas remembered. "Stefan and Kristina are with them, though he's quite appalled by the choice in name …"
"Which would be," Nikolas inquired.
"Stone Davis Corinthos," Alexis said smiling fondly at the way it rolled off her tongue. "He nearly had a stroke when he found out that none of the family names were going to be used." Rolling her eyes she continued, "Kristina had to yank him out of the room to stop his lecturing."
"I'm sure he got as good as he gave."
"No doubt! Now why don't you head down to the nursery and say hello to your cousin?"
"Are you sure," Nikolas asked. "I don't want to leave you alone."
"Please I haven't been alone all night," Alexis snorted. "Quiet for a few minutes would be a blessing really. Now scat," she ordered nudging him off the bed.
~*~
The Nursery"I really need to head over to the Q's," Emily told Jason and Elizabeth, but her eyes were glued to her godchild. He was just so perfect, and teeny. His ten tiny fingers astounded her. Had they all really started out that small?
"Please," Elizabeth retorted. "You haven't moved from that spot for hours. And it's the good spot too! You should let shorter people in front of you. Geesh I can barely see him," she complained even though she was standing in front of Jason, who was helping to support her.
Laughing Emily finally pulled her gaze from the baby. "Love you too," she teased. She gave them both a quick hug, before going over to congratulate Sonny and Mike again and to tell them she'd be back as quickly as possible. Turning down the hallway she ran straight into Nikolas. "Nikolas," she cried happily.
"Em," he grinned scooping her up into his arms. "I didn't know you'd be here. Its so great to see you!"
"You too," she said returning the hug. "Listen I'd love to catch up, but the family is waiting," she said pulling out of the hug.
"Just don't disappear before we get the chance to talk," he said in a hurry to see his cousin.
"Promise."
"Good, good," he replied and rushed around the corner. Emily waited and listened to the happy greetings. There was more in Port Charles than her family she realized. Was it worth giving them up just because she couldn't deal with the Qs? Sighing she started down the hall again.
"Emily," Zander called out softly, stopping her.
Steeling herself she turned to face him. She hadn't been able to stop herself from sneaking a peak at him every so often just to assure herself that he was still there. His hair was shorter than when she last saw him, and it looked like he'd been working out. "Did I forget something," she inquired trying to push away the awkwardness she was feeling.
"We could start with hello," he replied. When he had first seen her, his heart leapt as it had every time since they were first on the run. It was so odd, she looked the same but different. She was sleeker, and better able to hide the thoughts and emotions that once played so easily over her face. Zander found that he missed her long hair. The short, pixie-like haircut was nice but it wasn't his Emily. Clenching his jaw, he reminded himself that she wasn't his anymore.
"Sorry. I ah … well it's still … hard I guess is the word," she muttered, not sure what she should say. "Hello," she offered.
Zander laughed weakly, "Hello back."
Emily glanced around the hallway, any place that wasn't looking directly into his eyes. "I really need to go," she said fidgeting.
"Than you should go," he told her stuffing his hands in his pockets to keep himself from grabbing her and forcing her to stay and talk with him.
She nodded, "Right. I'm going," she stated but didn't move.
"You know," Zander remarked finally capturing her eyes with his, "going implies moving."
"I know that," she said in an exaggerated manner, but she couldn't seem to find the strength to move away from him. He was so close that she could smell him – it had been over a year since she had been this near him. She reached up and played with the necklace that was around her neck. When she first went into rehab she had constantly reached for the necklace Zander had given her. She hated having to send it back to him. Jason had bought her a silver cross with amethysts on it and a pearl in the center as a replacement since it had become at habit of hers to reach for it. "I'm just a little tired that's all."
"Do you want me to get one of the guys to give you a lift," he asked concerned. He finally noticed the dark circles under her eyes.
"Thanks," she replied touched by his concern. "But I'm just gonna grab a cab. Tell Alexis I'm gonna bring some presents for the baby when I come back?"
"Sure."
"Thanks again," Emily said smiling crookedly at him before she turned to leave. It took all of Zander's will power not to call out to her again.
~*~
Later that AfternoonPenthouse 2
"I wish we could have stayed longer," Elizabeth said sleepily as her eyes drifted shut.
"Do you want me to take you up stairs," Jason asked as she curled more into him and the couch.
"Only if you're not comfortable," her muted replied came. Contented to sit and watch her sleep, he shifted only slightly to grab the blanket. Moving as little as possible he laid the blanket over her. "Huumm," she sighed. "Do you think they'll be as cute as Stone?"
Jason knew he wasn't really the person to ask that question too. He saw people, but the concept of beauty didn't really compute the same way. People were either beautiful or ugly depending on their personality. Sure, he had been attracted to women, but he had never thought of them as being beautiful or not. Elizabeth was beautiful, so were Emily and Lila, as well as Alexis, Carly and Monica. Picturing Michael when he was younger was hard, but he could see him. What was the word Robin has used? Adorable. It seemed to fit.
"Jason?"
"I'm sure they'll be adorable."
Elizabeth smiled. "As long as they get your bright blue eyes it doesn't matter," she mumbled before slipping off to sleep.
Smiling Jason gently brushed some hair from her forehead. "Love you," he whispered and kissed her temple.
~*~
Three Days Later Kelly's"Lucky," Emily said surprised as she ran into him as he was coming out and she was heading in.
"Em," he greeted her with a smile, and a big bear hug. "Wow look at you! I like the new do," he said tugging gently on her hair.
"Well I think the wanna be goatee has to go," she giggled. She had been waiting weeks to say that him.
Frowning, Lucky opened the door to Kelly's. "Buy you a cup of coffee? I have some news you might like."
Emily brow furled. "Sure," she agreed as she tried to think of what news he meant. Since she had been back she had been so busy with Stone, preparations for his baptism, and her family to even think about Lucky. Had they gotten a new assignment already? "So," she inquired once they were settled and had ordered.
Lucky leaned over the table and spoke in a hushed tone. "I got an email from Frisco. Donnelly has green lighted you."
Emily's mouth dropped. She had been waiting for the green light for months, but now she wasn't so sure if that's what she wanted. "How long do I have?"
"I'm needed in Egypt in two weeks. I can either pick up a new partner in New York before I go, or you can come with me."
"Two weeks," she said softly. That didn't seem like nearly enough time to decide her future.
Part II
Later that Morning
Mystique
"Looks different during the day doesn't it," Carly remarked as Zander entered her club.
"Actually I think I like it better. It's less crowded."
Carly rolled her eyes, "The point is to have a crowd." Only slightly exasperated she gave him a quick hug.
"Its better than the mansion at least," he retorted, hugging her back. They both knew why he hated that place so much. "So what did you need buddy?"
"Why do I always have to need something," Carly asked. "Why couldn't this be about you?"
"Okay, what do you think I need?" Zander asked pulling out a chair and sitting down.
"Shall I be blunt?"
"Are you ever anything else?"
"Hey," she cried, her dark eyes flashing with annoyance.
Zander smiled, "You know I wouldn't have it any other way. Now just tell me already."
Carly crossed her arms over her chest. Choosing to fume for a moment she sat down and crossed her legs. She bounced one for a minute refusing to look at Zander. Finally, she sighed and looked over at him. "I think your wedding is a mistake. You still love Emily and …"
"Okay! Just stop right there, okay Carly?" he said harshly. Emily was always a sore subject, and his emotions tended to run high when her name came up. "What I do or don't feel for Emily is none of your business. As for my wedding … I love Courtney. I proposed, and I intend to marry her."
"But you don't belong with her," she protested.
"I'm the only one who can decide that," he said pushing away from the table.
"Zander don't be mad. I'm just telling you what I think," Carly said worried that she might push him too far.
"I know that. And I get why you said it. Really I do," Zander said. "But whatever was between me and Emily, whatever we shared, is over with. We've both moved on and have our own lives. So just leave it alone. Please?" At her silence he insisted, "Carly I mean it."
"Okay, okay," she replied throwing up her hands. Though she was careful not to promise. Carly hurried to usher him out so she could formulate her plan.
~*~
General Hospital
"I can't believe I'm gonna have two of these soon," Elizabeth said awestruck as she held Stone in her arms. His little body gave off tremendous warmth as he slept contently.
Alexis smiled over at Elizabeth. For the longest time she had seen her as merely as one of Nikolas' friends. An intelligent girl who worked hard. It wasn't until she got involved with Sonny that she really got to know Elizabeth and found out how much they had in common. Particularly their habit of hyper speaking, which often landed them in spots where they didn't want to be. "Well personally I'm glad to have just one at a time."
"I know. As soon as I found out I was having twins, I read up about that couple who had eight at one time," Elizabeth felt a shiver of fear go up he spine. "If they can handle eight, then two should be nothing, right?"
"Easier that's for sure," Alexis agreed seeing the slight look of panic on Elizabeth's face.
"So are they springing you soon?"
"Don't get me started on that! I could kill Sonny. I was only supposed to be here a day, but is that good enough for him? No! He's paranoid. What about this and that? My God he had the doctor so nervous that I think he would have agreed to let us live in the hospital," Alexis informed her friend. "I swear he's hosing the penthouse down as we speak so there's not a germ in it. That or rubber padding all the walls. Figures I would end up in a padded cell, not that I feel trapped," she said quickly so Elizabeth wouldn't get the wrong idea. "But the man is taking child proofing to a new level, and Stone can barely walk. In fact I don't think he'll ever walk, because Sonny will have someone carrying him around so he won't fall."
"Alexis, breathe."
"Don't you start! Okay," she said shrugging her shoulders. "I admit it. I'm a bit nervous. I've never been a mother before. Frankly I never saw myself as one. I mean just look at me … I'm a walking basket case!" Elizabeth's laughter ended her tirade. "What," she asked accusingly.
"Kids don't come with instruction manuals Alexis. No one really knows what they're doing. We just do our best," Elizabeth said between gasps for air. "And you'll do fine."
~*~
On the Phone
"Carly, I don't like this," AJ said knowing full well that once she got something stuck in her mind, it would be full steam ahead.
"AJ you know I'm right."
"No I don't," he sighed, trying his best to think of a way to talk her out of this. "Zander was right when he said only he and Emily know what they feel."
"Need I remind you that the only reason they're not together now is you and that viper I call a sister-in-law," Carly remarked.
"Carly I've asked you not to call her that," AJ said trying to divert her.
"It's not going to work," Carly said calling him on his move. "You know that Emily and Zander would never have broken up if not for that lie you told. It was a real despicable one too. Actually just thinking about it is getting me quite mad at you."
"All right. I get it," AJ cut her off before she continued any further. "You want my help with this little … project of yours, fine."
"You're the best sweetheart," Carly said all lovey-dovey. "You're doing the right thing."
~*~
Two Days Later
Penthouse 1
"We really should have had the party at Wyndermere," Stefan told Nikolas. He eyed one of Sonny's associates as he congratulated them on the newest addition to their family. "At least then we would have had some control over the guest list."
"You know if your brother keeps staring at everybody like that he might get into to trouble."
"Please," Kristina laughed, squeezing Taggart's arm tighter. "You're the one who grew extra sets of eyes and ears; even after you promised you wouldn't," she reminded him in a teasing manner.
"It's a perfect situation Kristina," Taggart said trying to justify scooping out his soon-to-be brother-in-law's penthouse and associates.
"Well just for argument's sake; can we pretend this is about family, and celebrate our newest nephew," she asked, her clear blue eyes pleading with his darker ones.
Not wanting to disappoint her, Taggart sighed and agreed to stop staring. Still wanting to cause a little trouble he maneuvered Kristina towards the kitchen. Her cooking skills were akin to Alexis', so perhaps they could at least give Corinthos a slight headache. Shaking her head at him Kristina went along with his little plan because she loved Sonny's kitchen and after their attempt at a lesson he'd banned her from it. "Just be sure to make it clear that this was your idea," she hissed.
"That could be trouble," Elizabeth told Emily as they stood in the corner whispering.
"What," Emily asked shifting her focus away from Zander. Of course since he was now holding little Stone most would just think her to be watching over her little godson.
"You're so transparent you know that," Elizabeth remarked gaily, but worry touched her eyes.
"I don't know what you're talking about," Emily said shifting so that Zander would be out of her line of sight.
"Em …"
"Don't okay? You can lecture me all you want later, but I don't handle public ones very well anymore."
"I don't want to lecture you," Elizabeth insisted. "I want to know what's going on in that head of yours."
Emily laughed, "Nothing all that …"
"All what?"
"Can I ask you something?"
"I'm your best friend. You can ask me anything. You know that. Though something is quite vague," Elizabeth pointed out. "However, whatever it is is going to have to wait. The boys just started to use my kidney as a tennis ball and the bathroom calls."
"Too much information," Emily remarked making a face. Once Elizabeth was on her way, she made her way over to Jason.
"So Dad," Courtney said hugging her father, "how does it feel to be a Grandpa?"
"Wonderful," Mike laughed. This had to be the happiest day of his life. He and both his children were on good terms, behaving like a regular family. His son just had his first child and his daughter was about to be married. No, he didn't think it was possible to be happier.
"Is it my turn yet," Kristina asked turning up next to Zander a few minutes later.
Sonny eyed the flour on her nose. "Kristina?"
"Yeah Sonny?" she asked giving him a sideways look as she rocked her nephew and protection gently.
"Were you in the kitchen," he growled.
"She knows better than that," Alexis answered for her sister. "Don't you," she asked, when she noticed the flour. "Oh Kristina please tell me you didn't."
Unable to help herself Kristina grinned. "I wish I could, but I don't want to lie to you. The damage is not that bad," she promised.
"Son …" Alexis started to say but it did no good, Sonny had already started for the kitchen. The group of family around her laughed.
"Finally," Jax said approaching his friend. He wouldn't let the fact that Alexis was married to Corinthos ruin their friendship, but he tried to stay as far away from Sonny when they happened to be in the same room. "Congratulations Mom," he said hugging her.
"If Kristina goes near our kitchen when this happens for us … well lets just say she'll have little chance of making it out of the cottage alive," Gia whispered to her husband.
Nikolas laughed, "We don't have to worry about that yet," he said patting her hand.
"That's what you think," Gia said under her breath. But she didn't want to spring the news here and ruin Alexis' day.
~*~
Later that Evening
Port Charles Hotel
"Come on Jax be a good brother-in-law," Carly pleaded, giving him a pouty look.
"You don't even like admitting that you're related to my wife," he said exasperated with her. Business-wise their partnership was very successful. So successful in fact that they were currently working on opening similar clubs in Los Angeles, New Orleans, and Chicago. Other than business, well that was debatable depending on the day.
"So? Its not like you're thrilled with AJ either," she pointed out. "Or that the little woman will be happy to have me here when she gets back from her meeting with him."
"Then why don't you go and avoid a scene," Jax asked.
"Because I really need to borrow your yacht. Come on Jax I'm giving you more than twenty-four hours notice. Besides you're not even using it," Carly said her dark eyes half pleading half threatening.
"So being one of my many business partners gives you rights to my yacht? I don't think so," Jax replied.
"I'm family," Carly threw out. "Besides its for a good cause Jax."
"Which would be?"
Carly bit her lip. She couldn't exactly tell him what she wanted the yacht for; Courtney was his personal assistant after all, not to mention Skye's one and only friend.
"No reply I see," Jax remarked.
"Hey I'm trying to work for true love here. It needs helping along, and I just wanna give it a push."
"True love," he inquired skeptically.
"What? Why is everyone amazed when they realize that I'm not a completely selfish person? You know I'm not the devil incarnate," Skye is, Carly thought, but left it unsaid.
"You won't leave me alone until I say yes will you?" Not waiting for an answer Jax sighed, "Fine you can have the yacht Thursday night."
~*~
The Next Afternoon
Kelly's
Elizabeth didn't know why she was so surprised to see him. Both Emily and Nikolas had told her he was in town after all. But it had been so long since walked into Kelly's and saw him sitting there. True she had been the one to break up with him, but she had hated hurting him. "Lucky," she said approaching his table.
Glancing up from his paper Lucky was taken off guard by the sight of Elizabeth. He knew from Emily that she was pregnant but he had no idea about how big she had gotten. Due to twins if he remembered right. "Elizabeth," he smiled in greeting. "Its good to see you."
"You too."
"Would you like to sit," he asked standing up. She nodded and he pulled a chair out for her. Once she got her coat off and settled, he asked, "Can I get you anything? Coffee?"
"No caffeine," she said rubbing her belly. "But some hot apple cider would be nice."
"Sure thing," Lucky said motioning the waitress over. He gave her Elizabeth's order and folded his paper. "So I hear things are going well for you, with your gallery and all. I'm glad to hear that."
"Thanks. I've heard that you've become quite a wonder," Elizabeth said studying him. His brown hair was short, and he had lost some of the muscle. He was sleek again. He looked like the Lucky she knew before the fire. Emily was right the goatee did have to go. He just didn't look right with facial hair.
"Being a free-lance computer expert allows for travel," he remarked.
"I'm glad that you were able to get back into that," Elizabeth said. "I know you were having a hard time after …"
"How about," Lucky said interrupting her. "We let the past go? I'd much rather hear about how an old friend is doing than rehash everything."
"I'd like that," Elizabeth said, "but I don't know where to start. You've been gone awhile."
"Well …" Lucky paused as the waitress set down Elizabeth's drink. "Why don't with start with the wedding ring. Emily told me something about Vegas, but I wasn't sure if I should believe it or not."
Elizabeth smiled at the memory. "Oh, believe it. Jase and I did in fact get married in Vegas. Em flew along and played maid of honor and best man. When we got back Sonny cooked us a feast," her tone was jovial as she continued to tell him about being married by Elvis.
~*~
Penthouse 2
"Elizabeth said you wanted to talk," Jason stated as he sat down next to his sister on the couch.
"About what?" Emily asked as she curled her legs under her. She had volunteered to watch Stone last night so Sonny could take Alexis out to celebrate their new parenthood. Her little angel promptly turned into a crying machine, and didn't stop until his mother was home and he was in her arms. The experience left her drained and with a massive headache that had yet to go away.
Jason shrugged his shoulders, "All she said was that you seemed real serious about asking her something yesterday, but then you made sure that you guys weren't alone to talk."
"Oh that," Emily sighed. "I was just wondering how long you should think about a life altering decision."
"What kind of decision?"
"The wildlife refuge has offered me …"
"Em you don't have to lie to me," Jason said cutting her off.
"I don't want too," she said looking away from him. "But …"
"The WSB would prefer that certain people didn't know what you really did," he finished for her.
"Yeah … wait," she screeched turning towards him. "How did you know?"
"That I can't tell you," Jason informed her.
"Holy shit! You've got a insider in the WSB," Emily said awed by Jason and Sonny's reach.
"Its nothing," Jason insisted.
Emily nodded, "Sure. You're absolutely right. It's nothing."
"So you were saying something about a decision," Jason said refocusing the conversation.
"Oh, right." Emily settled herself back on the couch, and smiled over at her brother. "They wanna make me a full agent. For a while I thought that's what I wanted, but now…Jase I like being home. I love staying here with you, and talking to Elizabeth. Having Michael within a ten minute drive, and now Stone. I like being able to go to Luke's to have a drink and listen to all his stories. I love being able to have afternoon tea with Grandmother."
"Then you should stay," he said simply.
Emily groaned, "But I like what I've been doing. I'm good at it. Hell its fun. I love the excitement and knowing that what I'm doing is making the world a safer place."
"Emily you can be an agent and come home whenever you want to," Jason pointed out.
"I know that, at least I think I do," she sighed as she leaned her head on his shoulder. "But I like the idea of settling down … the whole house with a picket fence, the two point five kids and a dog. I can't have them both. Being an agent wouldn't allow that. And I have less than a week to decide."
"I'm not sure if this will help you," Jason said wrapping his arm around her and pulling her close. "But I knew the moment I saw Elizabeth again that I wanted her, and that it could work. I knew it would take some time, but I knew in my heart we'd end up as we are."
Emily knew Jason was trying to reassure her, but his story only disheartened her. When she saw Zander for the first time at the party there was hope, but now there was no chance.
~*~
Thursday Morning
General Hospital
"Would you like to hear the heartbeats," Dr. Meadows asked as she studied the sonogram.
"Could we," Elizabeth asked excitedly as she squeezed Jason's hand.
"Sure thing," the doctor replied. She flipped the switch and the sound of two rapid heartbeats filled the room.
Both Jason and Elizabeth were awed by the sound. Grinning goofily at each other they listened to the music of their children alive inside of Elizabeth.
"Sorry to interrupt but would you two like to know the sex of the babies?"
"Jason," Elizabeth asked her eyes shining. Jason knew Elizabeth wanted to know; it didn't matter to him either way so he nodded in the affirmative. "Boys, right?" she asked happily.
"Close," Dr. Meadows answered. "One of each."
"A boy and a girl," Elizabeth asked. "You mean we get one of each? Don't get me wrong I was looking forward to boys, but … well I always wanted a little girl. And now I get both at once!"
~*~
Luke's
"Come on Cowboy, you can stick around longer than that," Luke said as he hefted a box. He was grateful Lucky was here to help him since he'd already fired Claude for the day.
"I'm sorry Dad," Lucky replied following his father with the last of the boxes. "But Jamison Technology needs me in their Asia sector. They got major bugs in their new product, which is supposed to hit the market in two months."
"What are they thinking of doing something novel," Luke grumbled as he set the box down, "like releasing software without a single bug in it," he continued to complain as he took the box from Lucky.
"That's cynical Dad."
"It's the truth," Luke stated. "Look Lucky you just got here. Take a break."
"That's what I've been doing," Lucky replied as he opened a box and began to stock the shelves. "Listen I'll be here for a while still. It's not like I'm leaving this Sunday. You're still stuck with me for another week."
"What's two weeks when you've been gone a year," Luke muttered dejectedly as he too opened a box.
"I'll try to visit more okay?"
"Sure, sure. Now quit slacking and stock!"
~*~
That Evening
Jax's Yacht
Dressed in silver evening gown Emily strolled the deck of yacht. AJ and Carly had decided to throw a last minute party and asked her to attend. Since Carly had bought her the dress, and matching accessories she couldn't think of a reason to turn them down.
But the yacht was so quiet and Carly and AJ were nowhere in sight. Had they told her to come early or something, she wondered as she stopped to look up at the stars.
Adjusting his tie Zander hurried onto the yacht. Carly had wanted to see what a floating club would be like and she asked him to come by and help out with the final touches. He could still hear her insisting that he wear a suit in case they weren't done when her first guests arrived. "Are jeans that shocking," he asked under his breath as stepped onto the yacht.
He went into the stateroom, but the place was empty except for a single table set for two. "What the hell are you up to Carly," Zander asked out loud.
"Miss Quartermaine?"
"Yes," Emily said turning to face an older gentleman.
"I'm Captain Holmes. I just wanted to inform you that we've set sail."
"Set sail? But nobody else is here," she exclaimed.
"I assure you the other guest is on board," the Captain stated.
"Other? As in one other person," Emily asked paling. Carly didn't? She couldn't. Hell this was Carly, of course she did. But why?
~*~
Penthouse 1
Alexis didn't sing often. Actually she didn't sing at all. It hurt too much. Her voice like Kristina's; sounded so much like their mother's. All the songs that her mother sang to her were ingrained in her mind. She wanted to share them with Stone, so that he could know his grandmother in some way.
From the doorway, Sonny watched as his wife held his son and sang softly to him. Her voice so sweet touched his heart, while the scene touch his soul. And for the first time in his life he felt complete peace.
~*~
Jax's Yacht
"Emily?" Zander asked confused to see her. His mouth watered at the sight of her. The slinky sliver dress hugged her curves perfectly. She looked like a dangerous angel.
"We've been set up," she informed him. The intimate setting in the stateroom confirmed her suspicion.
"Carly," he sighed. At the moment he didn't know he wanted to throttle or hug his friend for this stunt. "We're moving right," he asked. Emily nodded. "And I don't suppose we have a choice as for when we head back."
"I've already tried to charm the captain. It didn't work."
"Would you want to get on Carly's bad side?"
Emily laughed, "I've already been there. So no. Going back isn't a happy thought." Looking around the now candlelit room she couldn't help the smile that touched her lips. It was very romantic. "Do you have any idea why she did this?"
"I don't think …"
"Don't think. Just tell me the truth," she implored.
"Carly thinks I'm making a mistake by marring Courtney," Zander replied.
"Why?"
"She thinks I still love you," he said looking away from her.
"Oh," was all Emily could think to say. "I … I need to sit." Hurrying over to the table she pulled out a chair. Just as she was about to sit Zander stopped her.
"Dance with me," he asked. His dark emotion-filled eyes bore into hers.
"Zander," she said breathlessly.
"Emily," he said softly rubbing this thumb over the top of her hand. "What I feel for you…I always will. Letting you go is like letting go the best part of myself. But …"
"Its too late," she finished for him.
"Yeah," he agreed as she laid her head on his shoulder. He put his arms around her waist and they began to sway. They danced slowly and sadly to the music in their hearts. They ignored the servers who brought them food. Contented, they stayed in each other arms until they felt the yacht dock.
"I don't want this night to end," Emily whispered.
"Me either," Zander admitted kissing her forehead.
Turning so that their eyes connected, "We don't always get what we want," Emily spoke, the heartache she felt evident in her voice.
"No we don't," Zander replied fighting back his emotions. He didn't want to cry, but it was like losing her all over again. It was worse this time though. He knew with one word they could be together; all he had to do was break Courtney's heart. But he couldn't, he love her too much to hurt her. "I want to kiss you so badly," he told her as he play with her soft brown tendrils.
"I wouldn't be able to stop kissing you though," Emily said moving away from him. Zander's hand tightened on her wrist keeping her close. Tears pooled in her eyes but she tried her best to smile at him. "Sometime love is what needed. I told that to myself when Jase and I barged in on Skye's wedding. But sometimes love isn't enough," she said as tears slid down her face.
Reaching up Zander brushed them away. "I do love you. If thing were different …"
"But they're not," Emily said cutting him off. "Wishing and hoping won't change that." Placing a hand on his shoulder she leaned up and kissed him on the cheek. "I love you too. Always." With those last words she stepped from his embrace.
Watching her leave Zander leaned against a wall. He heard her soft voice thank someone for her coat, and then all but her scent was gone. Feeling alone and heartbroken he finally allowed himself to break; he sank to the floor and cried.
~*~
On the Phone
"Are you sure about this," Lucky asked. He could hear the despair in his friend's voice.
"Yeah. I'm gonna take the job. I think a week refresher training would be good for me," Emily said hugging herself with her free arm.
"Em you still have a week. Don't make any decision until I get to headquarters next week. Promise me."
"Okay, but I won't change my mind," she said determined.
~*~
The Next Day
Airport
"I'm gonna miss you so much," Elizabeth said hugging her friend fiercely.
"Me too," Emily said returning the embrace. "You'll take good care of yourself?"
"Of course," Elizabeth said stepping back so that Jason and Emily could share a hug. "And you'll be back in time to see the twins make their grand entrance?"
"I wouldn't miss it for the world," she assured her friend. "Love you Jase," she whispered in her brother's ear.
"Love you back," Jason said not wanting to let her go. "Remember what I said. This will always be your home and we want to you come back often."
"I will," Emily promised.
"Attention last call for flight 1512 to New York. Again last call for flight 1512 to New York," an electronic sounding female voice said over the intercom.
"That's me," Emily said sadly. She hugged Elizabeth and Jason again before boarding the plane.
~*~
A Week Later
WSB United States Headquarters
"You're here early Spencer," Emily said cheerfully as she greeted her partner with a hug. "And with less hair," she noted thankful that the goatee was gone. "My you look fine."
Lucky grinned; she was looking good, sweaty from training, but good. "You to Quartermaine." He could tell now that she was content with her decision and he wasn't going to try to fight her on it. Besides he needed her too much. "So are you ready for Egypt?"