by Katie
Scott is pacing back and forth in the holding cell like a caged animal. While Eve stands out side of it trying desperately to calm him down.
Scott: All of my life, I've heard nothing from him nothing but lectures on leading a good life! To be upstanding, honest, loyal, decent! DECENT! MY FATHER CAUSED MY MOM TO HAVE A FATAL STROKE AND HE'S TELLING ME TO BE DECENT!
Eve: Scott strokes can be caused by a lot of things you don't know that that's what caused it.
Scott: Well it sure as hell didn't help her! Damit! Eve he has spent years lecturing me on right and wrong. And I always listened! I may not have obeyed but I always listened. And now I find out that he is nothing but a two timing hypocrite!
Eve: Scotty you don't know the whole story. Besides he probably just wanted better for you. And so he encouraged you to do better. You give Serena lectures when she is bad right?
Scott: Eve I never have acted like I was something I'm not! And I know all I need to know! He slept with Nicole, when he was with my mom. He then let his child be raised by a molester and let my mom die! What more do I need to know!
Eve: Scott hold on, now things are in all likely hood not that black and white, they rarely are. Okay he slept with Nicole. But that doesn't mean that he new she got pregnant. He could be as shocked as the rest of us. I mean you didn't know about Karen. And we have no way of knowing what caused your mom to have a stroke.
Scott: Okay so he may not have known so what! He's still a two timing hypocrite!
Eve: Okay so what are you saying? You're just going to throw away a wonderful father/son relationship that you have been working on for years because he made a mistake? Scott if Serena or Karen ever messed up real big and I mean big rime would you turn on them?
Scott: Well no
Eve: And throughout all of your life has your father ever turned on you?
Scott sighs.
Scott: No no he's always been right there.
Eve: Then why turn on him. Especially when you haven't heard his side of the story.
Scott: Yeah I guess your right I mean he always listened to me. But Eve what is he going to say! I mean Julie is proof that he cheated!
Eve: Scott has he ever been a bad parent to you?
Scott: No.
Eve: Then why be mad at him for something that happened years and years ago that has nothing to do with you.
Scott: He hurt my Mom!
Eve: But hurting him by walking away from him isn't going to undo that. Besides do you really think she'd want you do cut yourself off from the only father you've ever really known?
Scott: Well no she wouldn't.
Eve: And Scott don't forget we still don't know all the facts.
Mac comes over.
Mac: Hey Mate fancy meeting you here.
Scott: Yeah well I'd rather not be that's for sure.
Eve: Can you release him now Commissioner?
Mac: I think he's calm enough. Well calm for Scott anyway.
Mac grins.
Mac: Can you get him home with out him causing a world war?
Eve chuckles.
Eve: I'll do my best.
Mac lets Scott out and they go to Scott's car.
Eve: So where to?
Scott: I'm going to get some answers from Lee he owes me at least that much!
Eve: Maybe you can share them with the other hurt party here.
Scott looks at Eve a bit puzzled.
Eve: You know your little sister Julie. Imagine one minute your sitting there thinking that you know exactly who you are, and who your parents are. Then the next minute your whole life is thrown into a blender. She has just learned that Who she is is a lie.
Scott: Yeah well I'll talk to her but first I need to get some answers. Anyway I doubt she's going to want to see me or anyone else for that matter. At least for now anyway.
Eve: Well that's true I'm sure Frank has a very sturdy wall built around her right now and I doubt he's letting anyone in at least not tonight.
Scott: So do you think she wants to be part of this family?
Eve: Something tells me at this point she has know Idea aside from Frank about what she wants. So how are you going to handle this with Lee?
Scott: I'm going to go in there and demand some answers!
Eve: Okay but try to stay calm. There is no point in making this whole situation worse then it already is.
Scott: I'll try, but I'm not promising anything.
Eve: That's good enough.
Scott pulls up in front of Lee and Gail's house. There are news crews everywhere. Reporters shove cameras and microphones into Scott and Eve's faces as they make there way up to the door.
Gail half opens the door and Scott and Eve squeeze by. They come into the den Lee is sitting on the couch looking pale watching the news.
Gail: Can I get either of you anything?
Eve: No thank you Gail.
Scott: Well I'd like some answers!
Eve: Scott come on now lets be calm.
Lee: You have a right to them.
Gail: I'll be in the kitchen making dinner if you need me.
Eve: Gail tell you what I'll give you a hand.
Gail and Eve leave the men alone.
Scott: So you going to tell me what the hell all of this is about?
Lee: I'd like to if you'd let me.
Scott: Well I'm all ears.
Lee: Lets sit down.
The men sit on the couch and Lee shuts off the T.V.
Lee: 28 years ago your mother and I were having lots of problems. She didn't trust me and was always angry at me about something or other. And I was at the time as big an alcoholic as they come. We were very far apart. In fact we'd even spoken on several occasions about divorce. One night after a huge fight I packed up a bunch of clothes and went to a hotel. There was a medical convention being held there so there were plenty of free booze. Anyway while I was sitting at the bar I noticed this incredibly beautiful, sexy beyond words lady sitting not to far away. I went over to her and introduced myself. We started talking and time just flew. We hit it off right away. She was smart and funny and just plain fun not to mention extremely attractive. She was in town with her husband who was a doctor. They were very far apart and she really was unhappy with him but they had a young son and she didn't want to be a divorced Mom. Back then that was really looked down on. Anyway I told her about Meg. And well are friendship over the next three weeks just blossomed. Soon she went back to Chicago. We talked and wrote often. And I made trips to see her. This lasted the better part of a year. Then your Mom died. Scott I was guilt ridden beyond words. I totally blamed myself. So I wrote Nicole telling her that I could never talk to her or see her again. I had no idea she was pregnant with my child. If I had I most certainly wouldn't of let that man raise her as his own. I just found out today. Nicole called me after the whole thing broke and confirmed it. Apparently when Julie was born she had a heart defect so they had to do surgery. When they tested both Nicole and Bennett to find out who's blood would work if she needed blood during the surgery they discovered there was no possible way Bennett could be her father. And that's the story.
Scott: Why didn't she ever try to tell you?
Lee: She felt she'd be messing up my life, and she wanted at the time to stay married. Devlin told her he'd stay and love Julie as his own as long as Julie never new the truth. She believed that she was doing what was best for Julie. She now knows she was wrong.
Scott: What is it with the mothers of our girls they always think we would consider our kids a trap. That's what Rhonda thought.
Lee: Well I think Nicole believed at the time that Bennett could provide better for Julie then I could. You must be very angry.
Scott: Well I'm not doing a happy dance that's for sure. But I guess being mad doesn't really do anyone any good. So I might as well try to move on from it. Besides you've always forgiven me no matter what.
Lee: It's not easy loving someone is it son.
Scott: Tell me about it.
Eve and Gail come in.
Gail: So have you men gotten everything worked out?
Scott: We're getting there.
Eve: Well that's good, one bump in the road is no reason to jump out of the car.
Lee: Well amen to that.
Gail: Well then how about some dinner?
Scott: That sounds great.
Eve: I'm starved.
Lee: Well then lets eat.
Gail: It's on the table.
They all sit down.
Scott: Are you going to talk to Julie?
Lee: Oh absolutely but not tonight I'm not even sure about tomorrow. She's just been hit with a major shock I don't want to push things.
Gail: I agree that poor girl has been through so much. She doesn't need us running to her right now. She needs to let this sink in first.
Back at the Scanlons Joe and Frank have pulled every curtain and shade over every window. They have also unplugged every phone. Amber Rose is watching Star Wars with Joe. While Mary and Karen make dinner. Upstairs Frank has locked Julie and himself in his room. He is lying on his bed holding her tightly to him.
Julie: I am so confused.
Frank: I know that was quite a shock. But Julie it doesn't change who you are as a person. your still the same wonderful women I am crazy in love with. Okay your the same person you were when you woke up. You have the same personality, the same views and beliefs and morals. You still love the same people, your still a great doctor, you still enjoy the same things, and like the same things. Julie you are still basically the same person you were this morning. The things that count about you and make you who you are haven't changed.
Julie: All my life I wondered how my Dad could hurt me, and why he didn't love me as much as Buddy. Now I know I'm the product of an affair my Mother had.
Frank: Julie that's not why it happened. He's a sicko and that's why it happened. You don't hurt a kid or deny them love because their parent did something wrong.
Julie: I know the abuse isn't explained by that but what about the lack of love?
Frank: Julie biology has nothing to do with loving a child. I love Amber Rose as if she was my very own. Partly because I love you, but also because she's a great kid and very easy to love. As I'm sure you were.
Julie smiles up at Frank.
Julie: You really love her has your own?
Frank: I really do Julie, I wasn't real sure how I would feel about her when I went to get her but she's totally got me wrapped around her little finger.
Julie: I'm glad.
Frank: You know there are a couple of positives here.
Julie: Such as?
Frank: Well think about it you now have a big brother who is known for protecting his own. And You also now have two nieces one of which you are already best friends with. And if Lee didn't know about you like Scott didn't know about Karen then you just might get a relationship with a great father and stepmother out of this.
Julie: Well that's provided the Baldwin family wants a relationship with me. Did you see Scott's reaction? I doubt he's going to be knocking on my door anytime soon.
Frank: Julie he was shocked just like you were. And he wasn't mad at you. He was mad at your Mom and Dad. And as I said if Lee doesn't know I bet he'll be wanting to get to know you.
Julie: Well being Karen's aunt will be nice. Although the relationships are going to be strange. I mean think about this lets say Joe and Karen get married. You are going to be your brothers uncle in law.
Frank starts laughing.
Frank: I hadn't thought of that. Well hey it could be worse.
Julie: What's the second thing?
Frank: Well gets got to help to know it wasn't your biological father who hurt you.
Julie: That's true. But since I loved him as if he was it doesn't do much.
Frank kisses her and hugs her tightly.
Chapter 33
It is morning Frank and Julie warily come down stairs to face another
day in court unsure of what it will hold. Mary, Joe, and Karen are in the
kitchen making breakfast as they come in. Amber Rose has already left for
school.
Mary: Well we were wondering when you were going to come down. We'll
need to leave soon for court.
Joe: Speaking of which how are you feeling Julie?
Julie: Well I'm standing so I guess that's a good sign. I just wish
my Mother had told me herself. I mean she had to have known that Dad would
bring that up.
Karen: Sometimes parents do things that we will never understand. I
will never understand why I was kept from my father. Scott is the best.
Frank: Well at least the truth is out. Although I have to agree there
must have been a better way.
Joe: You know Julie I don't think you'd be breaking any rules if you
didn't go today.
Mary: That's true you could stay here and collect your thoughts and
simply rest.
Karen: We'd tell you everything.
Frank: I think Julie needs to be there. If she doesn't go it will look
like she's ashamed of something or like this isn't important to her.
Julie: I agree besides I have a wonderful support system, you guys
are the best.
Everyone smiles.
Just then the phone rings. Karen answers it.
Karen: Hello
Eve: Karen it's Eve.
Karen: Oh Hi Eve what's up?
Eve: I'm over at your Dads he wants to talk to you about Julie but
he didn't want to risk her answering the phone. Here hold on.
Scott: Karen?
Karen: Hi, what's up?
Scott: Well I'm trying to figure out how to handle this. I want to
get to know my little sister, and be there for her the way a brother should.
But I don't want to push things. She's been through a lot and I'm afraid
I will over whelm her. What do you think.
Karen: I think no matter how long you wait the first few encounters
are going to be strange.
Scott: But should I at least wait until the trial is over. I don't
want to add stress.
Karen: Well maybe the best way to figure it out is to ask her what
she wants. She won't break you know. Hold on a sec.
Karen turns towards Julie.
Karen: Julie would you like to talk to Scott?
Julie looks at Frank.
Frank: It's up to you, I don't want you taking on to much but if you
think you can handle starting a relationship with your brother right now
then go for it.
Joe: Brothers can be a great thing.
Julie: Well I think I should be able to handle a phone call. And I'll
play the rest by ear.
Karen hands the phone to Julie.
Julie: Scott it's Julie.
Scott: Hi Julie, so um how are you doing this morning?
Julie: Well I'm still a little shell shocked but I'm managing.
Scott: Yeah yesterday was a surprise that's for sure. I'm still adjusting
to it myself.
Julie: I really wish it hadn't come out that way. Have you spoken with
Lee?
Scott: Yeah he gave me his side of it. Apparently Lee and my mom were
having a lot of problems. He left her briefly and that's when he met your
Mom. They had a relationship for awhile and when my mom died Lee dumped
your mom because he felt guilty. She didn't tell him she was pregnant.
He found out yesterday along with the rest of us.
Julie: That must have been quite a shock to him as well. But how do
they know for sure that I'm Lee's if there was never a paternity test?
Scott: Well apparently according to what your mom told Lee yesterday
when you were born you had some medical problems and they ran some blood
tests on your parents. It was discovered that there was no genetic way
that Bennett Devlin could be your father.
Julie: Wow well I guess I should be grateful that that man isn't really
my Dad.
Scott: Julie the reason I'm calling is well I want to know how you
want to handle this. In a perfect world I'd really like for us to have
a brother sister relationship or at least work on having one. But if that's
not what you want I understand, and I'll respect that.
Julie: Actually having a brother again might be one of the best parts
about all of this. I'd like to work at that to.
Scott: Well then okay um would you like to come over for dinner tonight?
You could bring Amber Rose so she could play with her Cousin. I bet her
and Serena would have a lot of fun.
Julie: I bet they would. Sure I'd love to.
Scott: Okay how about 7pm.
Julie: That sounds good.
Scott: Well I better go I'll see you at the court house.
Julie: Okay I'll see you then.
They hang up.
Frank: How do you feel?
Julie: Well actually I feel pretty good. Scott is such a nice guy.
I don't think building a brother sister relationship will be to hard. I'm
having dinner with him tonight.
Karen: Julie that's great! Or should I say Aunt Julie.
Everyone cracks up.
Joe: These family relationships are going to be funny that's for sure.
Frank: Tell me about it if you and Karen get married I'll be your Uncle
in law.
Everyone laughs.
Karen: I believe there was once a song called I am my own grandpa this
family thing is starting to remind me of it.
Mary: Well family is family and I think it's great that you and Scott
are going to try and forge something. Do you plan to try to connect with
Lee?
Julie: I'm not sure. I think I'm going to take this one step at a time.
Frank: that's a good idea.
Joe: Well speaking of taking things one step at a time we really need
to go.
Mary: Is Dara going to recross Nicole?
Karen: I would think she would.
Frank: I think Eve is on the stand today.
Julie takes a deep breath.
Julie: Well then let the games begin.
The group leaves the house.
Back at the fire house Eve and Scott are getting ready to go.
Eve: So how did the conversation go?
Scott: Well it was a little awkward at fist but Julie really isn't
hard to talk to. And we both seem to want the same thing. She's coming
over for dinner tonight so we can work on this brother sister thing.
Eve: Oh Scotty that's great.
Scott: I think it is.
Eve: Are you going to have Lee come over also?
Scott: No they need to decide for themselves when to pursue that. I'll
let Lee know that she seems interested in getting to know us. But they
need to work this out themselves. Julie is fragile I don't want to just
send a stampede her way.
Eve: That makes sense. I mean as long as they know the other is willing
the rest really has to be there doing.
Scott: Exactly, well we better get going.
They Leave hand in hand. At Chris's apartment Chris has been tossing
and turning all night. He hasn't slept since the trial began. He punches
his pillow.
Chris: Dam these memories! Why couldn't I have just kept them buried!
Chris thinks about Eve he remembers the concern in her eyes, And her
offers of help.
Chris: Well trying to forget isn't helping I might as well talk it
out.
He grabs the phone and calls Eve on her cell phone.
Eve: Hello?
Chris: Eve it's Chris listen can you come over for dinner tonight.
I really need to talk.
Eve is stunned.
Eve: Well sure Chris, dose this have anything to do with that nightmare
you had?
Chris: Yeah listen can we talk about it when you come over tonight?
Eve: Okay sure I'll be there around 7 is that okay?
Chris: Yeah that would be great.
They hang up, Eve just stairs at Scott.
Eve: Now that was strange.
Scott: What's up?
Eve: That was Chris he wants to have dinner tonight and talk. He sounded
upset.
Scott: Any idea what's going on?
Eve hears Chris's voice in the on call room ''Men don't talk about
things like this!'' She shivers.
Eve: Well he's been acting really strange ever since this trial started.
I guess I'll find out tonight.
Matt and Ellen arrive at the court house.
Ellen: That was some court session yesterday wasn't it.
Matt: I can't believe Nicole didn't try to for worn Julie that that
revelation might come out. I mean she had to know that Devlin would bring
it up. That was no way for Julie to find out.
Ellen: Well it seems to me that no one in her family has ever given
much thought to her. I can't imagine waking up one day and learning that
your own identity is a lie.
Matt: They certainly don't put her first that's for sure. It must be
hard for her right now I can't even imagine it. But the truth is it really
doesn't change who she is as a person. She's still Julie. And if you ask
me she's better off now anyway. I mean the Baldwin's are great people.
Ellen: That's true I guess she really dose come out the winner here.
They go into the court house. As everyone is getting settled. Scott
comes in and walks over to Julie.
Scott: Uh Hi.
Julie: Hi
Scott: Well hopefully today will be smoother.
Julie: I can't imagine it being harder.
Scott: Well if you've got the same stubborn genes I have then you should
be just fine.
Julie smiles.
Frank: Well she definitely has those I'm living proof of that.
Scott sits down. Lee and Gail walk in.
Joe: Well I guess there going for a family reunion right here.
Karen: Well Baldwin's stick together. And Julie is a Baldwin.
Lee comes over to Julie.
Lee: Hello.
Julie: Hi, thanks for coming.
Lee: Well I wanted to offer my support. I hope you don't mind.
Julie: No not at all I'm glad your here. I need all the support I can
get. And well I would like to get to know you if that's okay?
Lee smiles.
Lee: I'd like to get to know you to.
He extends his hand and they shake. Then he goes and sits with Gail.
Frank: Well it looks like your building a family.
Julie: Yeah I guess I am.
Karen: I'm so glad. I've always wanted an Aunt.
Julie: Well it looks like you've got one. I only see one foreseeable
problem.
Karen: What's that?
Julie: Well I can be fiercely loyal, and very protective. Which means
that if anyone (Julie half glances at Mary) says or dose anything that
upsets and or offends you I can't stand idly bye. And that could cause
problems.
Mary: Well I've been working very hard at being nice to Karen, but
if I'm not and you feel you need to call me on it, considering you are
her aunt I won't get upset.
Frank: That's good because if Joe and Karen get married she will be
not only my sister in law but my niece and I'll have no choice but to back
her as well.
Mary just shakes her head.
Mary: And when Amber Rose starts dating you will see that no one is
good enough for her.
Frank: Hey she's not dating until she's 21 at least.
Everyone bursts out laughing.
The judge comes in and everyone sits.
Judge: Ms. Jenson you may call your next witness.
Dara: I'd like to recall Nicole Devlin to the stand.
Nicole retakes the stand amongst a slew of whispering.
Dara: Mrs. Devlin why didn't you tell your daughter about who her father
really was?
Nicole: Lee Baldwin was an alcoholic when I met him. He drank is wait
in liquor and then some. He didn't have a lot of money and like me was
married. Bennett was rich and successful, and at the time I believed he
was a good man. I wanted the best for my baby and I thought Bennett could
provide that. When Julie was born she had a heart defect and needed blood
for surgery they took both of ours. And discovered there was no possible
way Bennett could be her father. I begged him not to leave me. We had a
son who needed his father as well and Julie needed a good Dad. I thought
Bennett could be that Dad. Bennett agreed to stay as long as Julie never
new the truth and I never told Lee about her. So I didn't in hindsight
I was wrong Bennett was a horrible father to both of my children. I should
have taken the children and left along time ago but hindsight is always
20/20.
Dara: So you were simply trying to do what you believed was best for
your daughter.
Nicole: Yes, I suppose once she was grown I could have told her. But
I felt it would only hurt her. She loved and respected Bennett so much.
I did think about telling when this trial started but I felt she was dealing
with so much already it just wasn't right to tell her this just yet. I
never thought it would come out like it did.
Dara: Mrs. Devlin did you sleep with Chris Ramsey?
Dara: Yes I did. My husband and I came to Port Charles after learning
are daughter was missing. She had been kidnapped by Greg Cooper. Cooper
was a raving lunatic and there was a great deal of fear that Julie would
be found dead.
Frank shifts in his chair uncomfortably Julie smiles and squeezes his
hand.
Julie: I'm okay.
Frank: Thank God.
They Kiss.
Nicole: While we were searching I learned that my husband of 30 years
had had an affair with my daughters fellow college and room mate Eve Lambert.
I was beyond upset. I mean I just never thought he was capable of such
a thing. Not that I had been the perfect wife but still it hurt. And it
came out at such a bad time. Anyway once Julie was found unharmed thank
God I needed some comfort. And I found it in Chris Ramsey. He treated me
with such respect, and kindness. He made me laugh and made me feel good.
One night when I was feeling very low and needed to be held he was there
and we made love. At first it was to be are secret. I believed we both
genuinely cared about one another. Then I found out that he was just using
me and that he was very close with Eve Lambert I mean very close. I was
so mad at both Bennett and now Chris I could barely see straight so I set
it up for Bennett to catch me with Chris. In hindsight it was a stupid
adolescent thing to do. But at the time it made sense.
Dara: Would you lie for your Daughter?
Nicole: No as much as I dislike Bennett if I thought she was making
this up I'd say so. After all just because he's a jerk that isn't reason
enough to send him to jail.
Dara: Nothing further your honor.
Leopold: I have nothing more to ask this witness.
Judge: Very well, Mrs. Devlin you may step down. Ms. Jenson call your
next witness.
Dara: I call Dr. Eve Lambert to the stand.
Eve takes the stand.
Dara: Dr. Lambert how do you know the defendant?
Eve: We had a three year affair during my med school education. And
most recently we worked at GH together.
Dara: How would you describe Bennett Devlin?
Eve: Controlling, when we dated he wanted me to be at his beck and
call. I had to drop everything and come running when he snapped is fingers
no matter what. I had to live where he wanted me to and I had to ask permission
to go anywhere with out him. When I got my internship at GH he hit the
roof he told me I couldn't take it and that I had to stay near him or else
I could forget about everything.
Dara: Everything meaning?
Eve: I didn't have any money he had paid for everything. My education,
my car, my apartment. I realized that he didn't think highly of me that's
when I realized he wasn't really in love with me I was just his little
slut.
Eve starts crying, she then pulls herself together.
Eve: I decided I never wanted to see him again and I most certainly
didn't want to owe him a thing. So I sold everything he had ever given
me and emptied my life savings. Then I handed him a check and left for
Port Charles. When he came to town I felt sick. I wanted to forget that
time so badly all he wanted to do was start up again. When I refused he
threatened me, he then drummed up some phony charges and tried to have
my internship taken away. I sued him for sexual harassment and won.
Dara hold up some papers. Are these the transcripts of the Sexual harassment
suite?
Eve looks at them.
Eve: Yes.
Dara: Did any unexpected finding come of that suite?
Eve looks over at Julie, she doesn't want to hurt her she knows how
much she loved Buddy but she knows this info could help put Devlin away.
Eve: It came out that Bennett had had an affair with Julie's brother's
girlfriend Alison Scyler. Buddy caught them in bed together two days before
he killed himself.
Everyone gasps.
Frank and Joe squeeze Julie's hands.
Julie: He basically killed my brother.
Frank: He's going to pay.
Leopold: Objection this is hearsay there is no proof of this!
Dara: Your honor Alison's sworn testimony is in those document of the
harassment suite.
Judge: Dr. Lambert are they in there?
Eve: Yes they are.
Judge: Alright then objection overruled.
Dara: I'd like to submit this as evidence.
The bailiff takes it.
Dara: Did he ever talk about his family?
Eve: Yes I think that's one of the reasons I was so surprised to meat
Julie. He described her so differently then she is.
Dara: How so?
Eve takes a deep breath.
Eve: He said that she didn't appreciate him or love him. That she had
no respect for him and was a greedy selfish little tramp. He told me that
she was lazy and used his money and name to get her self places.
Everyone gasps
Julie starts to cry. Frank hugs her.
Frank: Everyone that knows you knows it's a lie. And that isn't going
to be hard to discredit since you came to town as Julie Morris to be your
own person.
Leopold: Objection that's hearsay!
Judge: Sustained the jury will disregard what they just heard.
Dara: Tell us about Julie.
Eve: Well fist off she came to town as Julie Morris so that she could
make it on her own. She rented a basement apartment that was very cheep
so that she could pay for it with her own money and she was very unhappy
when her Dad came to town because she wanted to make it on her own. In
other words a complete contradiction to what Bennett had told me.
Leopold: Objection! This is hearsay!
Judge: sustained jury will disregard the witnesses last comment.
Dara: I have nothing further your honor.
Judge: Mr. Leopold your witness.
Leopold grins wickedly as he walks over to Eve. Eve takes a deep breath
She knows what's coming.
Chapter 34
Leopold walks smugly over to Eve. Eve takes a deep breath and straightens
her shoulders. Scott gives Eve an encouraging smile. Julie looks at Frank
Julie: what do you think Leopold has on her?
Frank: I don't know but judging from the look on Eve's face it can't
be good.
Leopold: Dr. Eve Lambert, your full name is Dr. Evelyn Ray Lambert
is that correct?
Eve: Yes.
Leopold: Your mother's name is Jessica Lambert right.
Dara: Objection your honor where is this going? This line of questioning
is going no where.
Leopold: Your honor I'm getting to it.
Judge; Objection over ruled but Mr. Leopold do try to get to your point
some time today.
Julie side of the court room snickers.
Leopold sneers.
Leopold: Yes your honor. Dr. Lambert please answer the question.
Eve: yes that's her name.
Leopold; Your mother is a prostitute isn't she.
Eve squirms in her seat.
Dara: Objection your honor what is the relevance here.
Leopold: Your honor if I may continue I'm about to show how discredible
this witness is.
Judge: very well I'll allow it. Objection over ruled.
Leopold: Well Dr. Lambert is she/
Eve: Yes.
Leopold: And Dr. Lambert could you please tell the court what you were
through your teen years.
Eve near tears.
Eve: I was a prostitute.
Eve looks down in shame as the court room erupts.
Mary: A prostitute! A prostitute is living in our house!
Frank: An ex-prostitute mom she isn't any more.
Joe: Besides it's not your house anymore.
Mary; What difference dose that make she's a whore!
Scott turns around.
Scott: Excuse me you don't know all the facts so shut up!
Karen sinks down in her chair.
Julie: Scott take it easy. I need you in here not in a holding cell
again.
Judge: Order in the court.
Dara: Objection your honor this has no relevance!
Leopold: Your honor, it simply discredits her.
Judge: I'll allow it. Objection over ruled.
Leopold: Dr. Lambert could you tell the court for how long you worked
the streets?
Eve takes a deep breath and pulls her self together.
Eve; For 6 years.
Leopold: Dr. Lambert when you were with Bennett Devlin were you aware
that he was married/
Eve: Yes I was, but
Leopold: And you did have a sexual relationship with him correct?
Eve: Yes.
Leopold: And isn't it true that Bennett Devlin paid your way through
school, paid for your apartment, and your car?
The court room gasps.
Eve: Yes but.
Leopold: Your were recently on suspension from GH isn't that correct?
Eve: Yes but
Leopold: You were caught breaking into Bennett's lab and taking one
of his files were you not.
The court room murmurs.
Eve: That's what he claimed but.
Leopold: Nothing further your honor.
Julie: How is Dara going to fix this!
Frank squeezes Julie's hand.
Frank: Don't worry either way our case is still strong. And besides
Dara is very good at damage Control.
Judge: Ms. Jenson you may recross.
Dara: Dr. Lambert could you please explain your past.
Eve: My mother was 13 when she had me. She quite school to raise me
and she was a cocaine addict. To pay the bills and get her drugs she worked
the streets. Most of the money went to drugs. My little sister and I had
to get by on what ever pennies the drug dealer didn't take. We lived in
the worst possible part of New York, and spent most of our time living
on the streets. Because that area was so bad, it was easy for us to slip
through the cracks of Social Services. Anyway when I was 12 my mother told
me that if I didn't start working the streets with her I'd have to leave
and fend for myself. I loved my family and I didn't want to leave. I was
also scared I mean I was only 12.
Eve is practically crying. she catches Karen's eye and sees total compassion.
So she takes a deep breath and continues.
Eve: I also new that as long as I worked the streets my little sister
wouldn't have to. I wanted to protect her from that so much. I might have
run away if it wasn't for her. Anyway I did that till I was 18 and then
left for College on a scholarship. My sister came with me and spent time
in where ever I could put her up for the next 2 years till she started
college. Our mom was so glad to be rid of us she didn't even try to get
Shelly back.
Dara: Dr. Lambert after you graduated med school what did you do before
coming to Port Charles?
Eve: I sold every gift Bennett gave me and emptied my savings. Then
I handed him all of the money to pay him back for everything.
Dara: And that included tuition right?
Eve: Yes it did, I am a lady now, and I already was one at that time.
So I most certainly did pay him back.
Dara: You are now reinstated at GH correct?
Eve: Yes after winning my sexual harassment suite I was put back on
duty.
Dara: So the board found his claims and reasoning for wanting you fired
were invalid correct?
Eve: Yes they felt I was justified in my actions.
Dara: Could you explain?
Eve: A few of my colleagues have been working on some very interesting
experimental medicines. If they are ever perfected they could bring the
creator billions of dollars. Anyway when Devlin found out about how well
their work was going he through them out of the lab and stole their work.
He would let them have their files or any access to the drug. He wanted
to get the credit. I'm sorry no I'm not sorry that is wrong. My colleagues
have been working their fingers to the bone day in day out as well as working
on their internships. They have gone with out sleep many nights: And now
when most of the more difficult work is done Devlin just saunters in and
wants to take the credit for something he had nothing to do with. I couldn't
stand by and do nothing and the boards hands were tied. So I snuck in and
attempted to retrieve one of the their files. I was in the process of doing
this when Devlin walked in. He got me fired on charges of breaking and
entering, as well as steeling.
Dara: But doesn't the lab belong to every employee of the hospital?
Eve: It's supposed to but Devlin is very powerful. Anyway I accused
him of sexual harassment and won. The Board was very understanding.
Dara: Thank you Dr. Lambert, I have nothing further of this witness.
Judge: You may step down.
Eve practically runs into Scott's arms. He holds her tightly.
Scott: It's over now it's okay. You were great, I think the jury really
understood once Dara got up their.
Eve: I hope you're write.
Eve turns to Julie:
Eve: Oh Julie I hope I didn't hurt your case.
Julie: Eve don't worry about it. Besides Dara put the right twist on
it.
Dara: Your honor I'd like to call Frank Scanlon to the stand.
Joe: And here comes Leopold's worst nightmare a man he can't discredit.
Frank: Oh I'm sure he'll try.
Frank kisses Julie and takes the stand.
Dara: Mr. Scanlon how long have you know Julie Devlin?
Frank: Since June of 97.
Dara: How would you characterize your relationship.
Frank: Well she started out renting a room from me, and now she's my
bride to be.
Dara: When did you meet her father?
Frank: In August of 97
Dara: How would you characterize their relationship.
Leopold: Objection the witness isn't an expert in that area!
Dara: Your honor he saw and talked to Julie and her father with great
frequency that makes him an expert on them.
Judge: I'll allow it but proceed carefully. Objection over ruled.
Frank: Julie loves her father very much. She was very concerned about
proving herself and making it on her own so that he'd be proud of her.
What he thought meant the world to her. He would say jump and she'd say
how hi. I'm mean obviously there were exceptions to that but his approval
did mean the world to her. She was so wanting to make it on her own in
fact that she chose to go by her mothers maiden name Morris, that way she
wouldn't get any special treatment. And she lived on a budget she only
spent what she had to. I think she felt that making it on her own would
make her father proud and that he'd start treating her as an equal.
Dara: What did Julie's father seem like to you?
Frank: He was very controlling, and wanted things his way. He didn't
seem to want her to make it on her own. One of the first things he did
when he came to town was to tell people who his daughter was, and start
buying her things. He also kept trying to get her to move into a pent house
which would have forced her to rely on him for money.
Dara: But Julie refused/
Frank: Yeah she wanted to make it all buy herself. She wanted to prove
that she was a great surgeon and not just Devlin's kid. And she has.
Dara: Was Julie angry at her father's interference?
Frank: It bothered her some but she'd never speak badly of him. In
fact she'd defend him fiercely to anyone who spoke negatively of him. I
remember last fall we got into an argument because I tried to point out
how he was trying to control her life, and she didn't agree.
Dara: So she was very loyal towards him and very protective of him.
Frank: Oh definitely.
Dara: When did Julie tell you of the abuse?
Frank: Mid April.
Dara: How did it come out.
Frank takes a deep breath recalling that horrible night.
Frank: I had just come home from the hospital, I'd been in a bad accident
and was just thankful to be alive. Anyway my brother had informed me that
Julie had been having nightmares. You see we all live in the same house
and he had heard her screaming several times during the week I was hospitalized.
she'd never tell him much about the dreams just that they made her feel
dirty and ashamed. My brother has had experience with people who've been
abused and sensed that Julie might have been. So on my first night home
we spent the night alone. We had a romantic dinner and danced, then we
went upstairs. As we began to make love everything came back to her in
Technicolor. She ran from my room screaming and I found her huddled in
a corner. She didn't want to tell me at first. She felt so ashamed and
embarrassed. Finally she told me. It just made me sick beyond words that
someone could do that to a child.
Lee shakes his head sadly and Gail takes his hand.
Joe squeezes Julie's hand.
Dara: Was she angry?
Frank: More like scared, and ashamed. She was convinced he was going
to hurt her, and she blamed herself. I think if she didn't love him so
much it would be easier for her.
Dara: Nothing further your honor.
Judge: Mr. Leopold your witness.
Leopold: Mr. Scanlon isn't it true that Devlin tried to get you out
of Port Charles so you wouldn't be around his daughter?
Frank: Yes.
Julie: Where is he going with this?
Joe: I don't know but knowing Leopold's track record it can't be good.
Leopold: Is it safe to say that you really have never liked Devlin?
Frank: I certainly never found him to be very likable that's for sure.
But I don't know many men who do get along with their girlfriends fathers.
Leopold: And you would prefer him not being in Julie's life so you
could have more time alone with her wouldn't you?
Frank: Show me one man who doesn't want more time with the one he loves.
But I'd never take her away from those she loves.
Leopold: I bet you'd do anything for Julie wouldn't you?
Frank: yes I would.
Leopold: Even go along with a lie that she cooked up so that she could
ruin her father and be in the spot light!
Frank: NO!
Leopold: Oh come now Mr. Scanlon you'd love to have Julie all to your
self and feeding her little hallucinations about her father would secure
that wouldn't it.
Frank: I would never
Leopold: Nothing further your honor.
Mary: That rotten snake!
Julie: That man made Frank look so bad!
Joe: No he didn't Frank will be just fine see there goes Dara.
Judge: Ms. Jenson you may re cross.
Dara: Mr. Scanlon if you thought Julie was lying, or hallucinating
what would you do?
Frank: I'd try to get her help. I mean no matter how much I may dislike
Devlin if he was innocent then he wouldn't deserve this. But I believe
Julie is telling the truth. And that is why I'm up here. And for the record
I would never in a million years try to come between a parent and child
that is a sacred bond.
Dara: What didn't you like about him prier to all this?
Frank: He just wasn't a very nice person. But Julie loves him so I
figured he must have some good qualities so I kept giving him chances.
Dara: Thank you nothing further your honor.
Frank goes to Julie, they hug.
Julie: I'm sorry.
Frank: Hey you have nothing to be sorry about. We new Leopold was going
to try something and this was apparently it. But it didn't work. Don't
worry.
Judge: Court will recess until 9am tomorrow. Julie and the rest of
her supporters leave the court house.
Chapter 35
Back at the Scanlon house Julie is getting ready for her dinner with
Scott. she is nervously doing her hair when Frank walks in.
Julie: Frank tell me I have nothing to be nervous about.
Frank takes Julie in his arms and hugs her.
Frank: You have nothing to worry about tonight is going to be just
fine you'll see.
Switch to the fire house where Scott is nervously getting ready.
Scott: Oh hell this damn tie is worthless!
Scott throws the tie he has been struggling with on the floor. Eve
walks in.
Eve: Take it easy it's just a peace of cloth.
Scott: what was I thinking tonight is a mistake isn't it?
Eve goes over and wraps her arms around Scott and kisses him.
Eve: No Scott not in the least. Tonight will be just fine.
Switch to Frank and Julie.
Julie; What should I talk to him about? Sports? Law?
Frank: Talk about what ever comes naturally.
Switch to Scott and Eve.
Scott: What the heck are we going to talk about?
Eve: Don't plan it the conversation will just happen.
Back to Frank and Julie.
Julie: What if he blames me for his mothers death I mean the affair
added to her having a stoke.
Frank: Julie is he did he wouldn't of asked you for dinner. Besides
Scott's smart he knows better then to blame you.
Switch to Scott and Eve
Scott: What if she blames me for what happened to her. I mean Lee did
stay because of me.
Eve: Scotty if she blamed you she wouldn't be coming besides she knows
better then to think you had anything to do with it. And Lee didn't even
know.
Switch to Frank and Julie.
Julie: How do I act around him?
Frank: Just be your self.
Switch to Scott and Eve.
Scott: How the heck should I act?
Eve: Act like Scott Baldwin.
Serena walks in.
Serena: Daddy how can Amber Rose be my cousin?
Scott and Eve look at each other.
Switch to Frank and Julie.
Amber Rose walks in.
Amber Rose: Mommy how can Scott be my uncle?
Switch to Scott and Eve.
Scott going over to Serena.
Scott: Well sweetie remember how I told you that when your sister Karen
was growing up I didn't know she was my daughter.
Serena: Yes.
Switch to Frank and Julie.
Julie goes over to Amber Rose.
Julie: Sweetie you know how even though you call Frank Daddy he isn't
your biological Daddy?
Amber Rose: Yes.
Switch to Scott and Eve.
Scott: Well when Julie was growing up Grandpa Lee didn't know that
she was his daughter. But now he knows. And just like you and Karen bonded
Julie and I age going to try and bond. And since Amber Rose is her daughter
that makes her my niece and your cousin.
Switch to Frank and Julie.
Julie: Well you see even though I called Bennett Devlin Daddy he wasn't
my real Daddy Lee is. And that makes Scott my brother. The only difference
between you and me, is that you know that Frank isn't your biological Daddy
but I only found out yesterday that Bennett isn't my biological Daddy.
Do you understand.
Amber Rose: I think so. Scott is your brother so he's my uncle.
Julie: That's right.
Switch to Scott and Eve.
Scott: I think so. I like the idea of having a cousin.
Scott: I like the idea of having a sister.
Switch to Frank and Julie
Julie: So are you already to go?
Amber Rose: Yep. is Daddy coming?
Frank: No sweetie tonight is just for you and your mom to get to know
your uncle and cousin. I'll see you when you get home okay?
Amber Rose: Okay Daddy.
They hug, then Frank goes over and hugs Julie.
Julie: Well we better get going.
Frank: I'll see you later.
Julie: Wish me luck.
Frank: Good luck, And Julie Everything is going to go great you'll
see.
Julie: I hope you're write.
They kiss and Julie and Amber Rose leave.
Switch to Scott and Eve.
Serena: When are they going to be here?
Scott looks at his watch.
Scott: In about 15 minutes.
Eve: Oh yikes that reminds me I'm supposed to have dinner with Chris
I better get going.
Scott pulls Eve close and kisses her.
Scott: You better not share any of that sugar with him.
Eve: Why Mr. Baldwin I do believe your jealous.
They both laugh.
Eve: Chris is having some sort of problem Scott and as his friend I
need to be there for him.
Scott; A true friend, he's one lucky guy. Well so are you Mr.
Scott: I know oh do I know.
they laugh.
Eve: Well have a great evening.
Scott: Wish me luck.
Eve: Hey you don't need luck just turn on that old Baldwin charm and
everything will be just fine.
They kiss and Eve leaves.
At Chris's place Chris is making a nice dinner for Eve. A steamed pasta
and seafood dish.
Chris: Well if she's going to hear my tale she might as well get a
good dinner out of it.
Chris thinks as he cooks. He looks at himself in the mirror there are
dark circles under his eyes where he hasn't slept in days.
Chris: Maybe tonight after you share this you'll get some sleep. Nothing
else has worked that's for sure.
Chris takes a sip of his martini
Mean while over at Matt's place Ellen and Matt are twisted together
as one under the covers.
Eve: Oh Matt I like the way you operate.
Ellen coohs as she caresses Matt's chest.
Matt runs his hand down Ellen's back.
Matt: Well thank you it's easy when you're fallowing such a good teacher.
Ellen looks up at Matt confused.
Ellen: I didn't teach you anything.
Matt: Oh yes you did, you taught me how to win you you should me what
you needed.
Ellen smiles.
Ellen: Well you were a willing student.
Matt: Would you like me to give a presentation to what I know?
Ellen: Oh please do.
Matt pulls Ellen close kissing her passionately and they tumble together
as one.
Scott and Serena are finishing setting the table when the door bell
rings.
Serena: There here Wahoo!
Serena runs to the door With Scott at her heels.
Serena flings the door open.
Serena: Come on in!
Julie comes in tentatively with Amber Rose at her side.
Julie: Hi Serena hi Scott.
Scott: Hi Amber Rose hi Julie you look nice.
Julie: Thanks so do you.
Scott: Serena this is your Aunt Julie and your cousin Amber Rose.
Serena: Hi Aunt Julie, hi Amber Rose.
Julie: Amber Rose this is your uncle Scott and your cousin Serena.
Amber Rose: Hi Uncle Scott, hi Serena.
Serena: Amber Rose do you like Barbie's?
Amber Rose: Oh yes they're great!
Serena: I got a whole bunch in my room do you want to go play?
Amber Rose: Sure, can I mommy?
Julie: It's fine with me.
Serena and Amber Rose go running upstairs.
Scott and Julie look at each other uncomfortably.
Scott: Uh can I get you something to drink?
Julie: Sure what do you have?
Scott: Oh just about everything. Wine, beer, soda, juice, water, milk,
apple cider.
Julie: Cider sounds good.
Scott: Two ciders coming up.
Scott goes to get the drinks. While Julie sits nervously on the couch.
At Chris's apartment Eve knocks on the door.
Chris: Coming.
He opens the door and lets Eve in.
Chris: Thanks for coming.
Eve: You sounded upset, and you clearly haven't been sleeping I wanted
to come.
Chris: Yeah well I've been dealing with some pretty dark stuff. How
about some dinner I made seafood pasta.
Eve: That sounds good.
They sit down to eat.
Chapter 36
Scott: No not in so many words but we spend a lot of time together
so she must know.
Julie: Scott may I give you a peace of advice?
Scott: Sure.
Julie: Don't put it off. If you love her go to her and tell her. I
put off telling Frank that I was in love with him for along time. I did
it for reasons that in hindsight were just plain dumb. And because of that
I almost didn't get to. If Frank had died I would never of had the chance
to say I love you to him. And I would've regretted it for the rest of my
life. Don't put off until tomorrow what you can do today because tomorrow
may never come.
Scott: That sounds like something you'd find on a t-shirt in a head
shop.
Julie smiles.
Julie: Maybe so but it's true.
Scott: Well maybe I will.
Julie: Good.
Scott: So have you spoken to Lee yet?
Julie: We spoke briefly at the court house this morning but that's
about it. I want to get to know him but I don't want to make him uncomfortable
or like he has no choice but to spend time with me.
Scott: Well Lee definitely wants to get to know you. He wishes he could
have been in your life before. But he doesn't want to push you. Or make
you feel any pressure if you don't want to.
Julie: Well it sounds like we're both thinking the same thing. Maybe
I should call him tomorrow.
Scott: I think he'd like that. After all if you both keep waiting for
the other one to move first nothing is going to happen.
Julie: That's true.
Scott: So uh how is all of this settling with you?
Julie: Well in a way it's a relief. I mean now I don't have to go around
thinking my own father raped me. I mean don't get me wrong it's still hard
but in some way it's a little better. And I also like the idea of being
part of such a great family. I've been envious of Karen for sometime.
Scott: Well we are a crazy bunch but there is a lot of love here.
Julie: I think it's good craziness.
Scott: Well then jump on in.
Julie smiles. They pause not knowing where to go from here.
Julie: So Scott tell me a little about yourself, if you don't mind.
Scott: What do you want to know?
Julie: I'm not sure really. Hobbies, interests, I guess I'm just looking
to make a connection only I don't know how.
Scott: Well I'll tell you something connections happen when you least
expect them, and you can't force them. It took Karen and I along time to
really cement our's. But I'm willing to try if you are. Are you?
Julie: I'm here aren't I.
Scott: yeah you are.
Julie: So how do we start?
Scott: It beats me.
Julie laughs.
Scott: I guess we start out getting to know each other and go from
there.
Julie: That makes sense.
Scott: You want to see a photo album? If you're going to be a member
of the family that might be a good place to start.
Julie: I'd love to.
Scott goes and gets the album.
Up in Serena's room Amber Rose and Serena are playing away.
Amber Rose: So you and I are cousins?
Serena: Yep Daddy says that's it's because Grandpa Lee is your mom
dad, and my Dad's dad.
Amber Rose: And Karen is my cousin then to right?
Serena: yep she's my big sister.
Amber Rose: It's so nice having all of these relatives. A couple of
months ago I had no one.
Serena: How come?
Amber Rose: Because when I was born my Mom was just a kid and her Daddy
made her give me away and he lied to her and told her I had a new family.
But I really didn't, and when my Daddy found out he came and got me and
brought me to my Mom.
Serena: That was so mean of Julie's Dad I bet she's glad grandpa Lee
is her Dad, he'd never do that.
Amber Rose: He's not a nice person when my mommy was little he did
really bad stuff to her.
Serena: My sister Karen when she was growing up her mom's boyfriend
did really bad stuff to her to.
Amber Rose: That's to bad. Don't you and Karen have the same Mommy?
Serena: Nope just the same Daddy. She's up in heaven watching me all
the time. And when I want to talk to her I just talk to her star.
Amber Rose: That's cool that your mom is a star.
Serena: I think it is.
Amber Rose: Dose she grant wishes?
Serena: Sometimes. Last fall some people said I couldn't stay with
Daddy because they thought he'd done a bad thing. So I wished on Mommies
star that she'd fix things so I could go home and she did. Do you have
a wish?
Amber Rose: That's cool that she fixed things for you. Yeah I have
a wish, do you think she'll listen to me?
Serena: She probably will since your my friend as well as my cousin.
Amber Rose smiles.
Amber Rose: Thanks you're my friend to.
The girls rush over to the window. Serena searches the sky and finds
her Mommies star. She excitedly points it out to Amber Rose.
Serena: Hi Mommy, this is my friend Amber Rose she's also my cousin.
I guess you know what's been going on down here. Julie Devlin's real father
is grandpa Lee. Well anyway Amber Rose is Julie's daughter and she has
a wish so I'm hoping you can answer it.
Amber Rose: Hi uh Aunt Dominique um here is the thing when my mommy
was a little girl her Daddy well the guy she thought was her daddy Bennett
Devlin hurt her real bad.
Serena: Like Karen's mom's boyfriend hurt her.
Amber Rose: Yeah anyway Bennett Devlin is on trial now and I was hoping
you could make sure he gets punished real bad. Uh thanks in advance.
Serena: Now we have to say the star prayer.
Amber Rose: Okay what's that?
Serena: You know star light star bright
Amber Rose: Oh yeah.
The girls finish in unison.
Amber Rose, And Serena: First star I see tonight I wish I may I wish
I might have this wish I wish tonight.
After they finish they go back to their dolls. From down stairs Scott
calls.
Scott: Serena Amber Rose come on down dinner is ready.
the girls hurry down stairs.
Julie: So chef Baldwin what's for dinner?
Scott: Baked Chicken.
Julie: Sounds good.
The girls come charging in.
Julie: So did you have fun upstairs?
Serena: Can Amber Rose spend the night?
Amber Rose: Can I mom can I?
Scott: I'd take that as a yes?
Julie: I guess so. Not tonight sweetie it's a school night.
Amber Rose: But Mom
Serena: Please please we wont stay up to late.
Scott: How about this weekend?
Julie: Okay Frank and I have plans Friday night so maybe then?
Scott: it sounds great.
Serena: Wahoo I can't wait till Friday!
Amber Rose: Me neither. Hey mom guess what Serena and I wished on her
mommies star and she's going to make sure your adopted Dad gets punished!
Scott and Julie look at each other and smile.
Julie: That's great hunny thank you.
Amber Rose: You're welcome it was Serena's idea.
Serena: Well she helped me and Daddy get back together so it makes
sense that she could help now.
Julie: Well that's very nice of you.
Scott: It was a good idea apple sauce.
Serena giggles.
Serena: Thanks.
They sit down to eat.
Over at Chris's place. Eve and Chris are silently eating the baked
Alaska that Chris made for Dessert.
Eve: Okay Chris you asked me to come over so we could talk and you've
barely said a full sentence wince I walked in the door and I'm getting
tired of watching you push your food around on your plate what gives?
Chris sighs and lets his fork clink onto his plate. Then he starts
rubbing his face.
Eve: Hey Chris I'm your best friend come on and talk to me.
Chris: I need your word that what I'm about to tell you goes no further
then this room is that understood.
Eve: Okay.
Chris: Promise me
Eve: I promise you.
Chris: When I was small my Dad was hardly if ever around and when he
was he was incredibly abusive to me. He beat me every chance he got anytime
day or night. He's chase me around with knives, slam me up against walls.
Eve I was barely 3 years old the first time I had a broken jaw and it was
thanks to my Dad. he told me if I told that he'd kill me and I had no reason
to doubt him. He wasn't around much anyway but because he wasn't my mom
got very lonely and from as early as I can remember till I was almost a
teen she well she raped me.
Chris gets up and starts pacing.
Chris: She didn't mean to hurt me she was just sick it wasn't her fault.
Eve: Oh Chris, I'm so sorry. Chris what can I do?
Eve goes over and hugs him.
Chris lets her for a minute then pulls away.
Chris: There is nothing anyone can do. Besides they're both dead so
who cares.
Eve: But it's obviously affecting you. Maybe you should talk to a counselor.
Chris NO! No one is going to know about this Eve.
I don't want this to get out!
Eve: Chris it doesn't have to get out. A counselor like Kevin is sworn
to not talk about what he hears. And Kevin of all people could relate to
it. you know he was abused by his mother as well. He could really help
you.
Chris: Why give me one good reason why.
Eve: Because if you don't and you keep pushing it down you could end
up having a nervous break down like Kevin did.
Chris sighs heavily.
Eve: Come on Chris I care about you please do this you'll thank me
later. It will be hard but in the long run you'll be better off. Know one
but Kevin and me ever have to know. Please call Chris.
Chris thinks for a minute then goes to the phone and while he watches
Eve he calls Kevin.
Chris: hello Kevin Collins please, this is Chris Ramsey.
Eve walks over and squeezes Chris's hand and smiles at him reassuringly.
It is early morning When Eve rings Scott's doorbell. He comes down stairs
and opens the door in his under shirt and boxers. Eve is standing there
in the same clothes she had on last night. Her eyes are red and puffy and
there are dark circles under them.
Scott: Eve? Eve what's wrong?
Eve puts her arms out and raps them around Scott's shoulders.
Eve: Scott hold me just hold me.
Scott holds Eve close to his body and then picks her up and carries
her over to the couch. They sit side by side.
Scott: Is everything okay? Did something happen last night with Chris?
Waite a sec these are the same cloths you had on yesterday. Have you been
crying?
Eve: I left Chris's place around 2 and have been driving around for
the past 4 hours.
Scott: Why what happened did you and Chris argue or something?
Eve: Scott I can't go into it. No we didn't argue he confided some
stuff to me and I'm doing my best to handle it.
Scott: Well if it is upsetting you this much maybe you should talk
about it? Why did he burden you with it anyway?
Eve: Scott we're best friends and that's what best friends do for each
other. Besides he didn't want to tell me at first I pulled it out of him
because I could see it was hurting him. And I don't need to talk about
it I just need you to hold me for a little while. Please Scott just hold
me and let it go.
Scott: Your wish is my command. But if it keeps hurting you I want
you to tell me okay?
Eve: Scott it's not hurting me it just upsets me that my best friend
had to go through this.
Scott: Well what upsets you upsets me.
Eve: And why is that?
Scott: Because I love you Eve. And you are truly the first women I've
loved since Dominique died.
Eve looks at Scott in stunned silence.
Eve: Could you repeat that?
Scott takes Eve's face in his hands and says.
Scott: I Scott Baldwin love you Eve Lambert very very much.
He then kisses her passionately. He then smiles at Eve as he leans
back on the couch. Eve has tears running down her face.
Eve: Scotty I Scott I love I love you to, I love you so much.
Scott wraps her tight in his arms and whispers softly thank you I was
so afraid you didn't feel the same way.
Eve: Oh Scotty of course I feel the same way! I just figured you didn't.
What took you so long?
Scott: I was afraid and I thought that there was no reason to rush
things. But last night my kid sister reminded me that life is to short
to put things off and she told me that if I love you I should let you know
about it.
Eve smiles.
Eve: hey wait a sec kid sister? I take it last night went well?
Scott smiles.
Scott: it went great! I was nervous at first but it was so strange
when we started talking we just connected. I think we are going to be very
close in the future.
Eve: Oh Scotty that's great! Well I guess I should thank Julie for
getting you to tell me huh.
Scott: Well you could thank me first.
Scott laughs.
Eve: You mean like this?
Eve kisses Scott passionately.
Scott: Well that's definitely a start. How about we if we take this
upstairs.
Eve: Sounds good to me.
Scott gets up and swoops Eve up into his arms. Still kissing passionately
Scott carries her upstairs and lays her across his bed. They pull off one
another's clothes as Scott plants fiery hot kisses everywhere. Eve rubs
her hands down Scott's back and through his hair as Scott rubs his hands
over her smooth body and slides his lips down her body. They moan one another's
name as there passion rises higher and higher.
Over at the Scanlon house Julie and Frank sleep peacefully in one another's
arms. Frank wakes slowly and looks down at his lovely lady sleeping angelically
in his arms. He wishes they could stay like this for ever but they have
to get ready for court. Today will be the toughest yet for today Julie
will take the stand. He says a silent prayer.
Frank: God give her the strength, and courage she will need to make
it through today. Give the jury the wisdom and compassion to hear the truth
in her voice so they may see Bennett for the monster he is. Give Dara the
intelligence to ask the questions that will lead to justice. And prevent
Leopold from gaining any points Amen.
Frank gently brushes a strand of hair from her face and kisses her
lightly. Julie's eyes flutter open.
Frank: Good morning sleeping beauty.
Julie smiles and kisses Frank.
Julie: Good morning prince charming.
Frank: Did you sleep good?
Julie: With you I always do.
Frank: So how do you feel this morning?
Julie: Well I'm happy to have found my brother, and niece. They are
great. You know Frank it's strange when I went there last night I was so
nerves but when we started talking I felt this almost automatic connection.
it's weird but I feel like I've always known him.
Frank: Well I guess that's because you're siblings.
Julie: I guess so, I'm really happy to have a brother again.
Frank: A brother is a great thing. I'd be lost with out Joe. Do you
have plans to see him again soon?
Julie: Well I'm sure I'll see him at the court house. And I'll see
him on Friday when I drop Amber Rose off to spend the night with Serena.
Frank: The cousins get along huh.
Julie: Buy the time we left they were best friends.
Frank smiles.
Frank: I'm glad, so are you ready for today?
Julie sighs.
Julie: As ready as I'll ever be.
Frank: You'll be fine Julie you're ready for this.
Julie: I wish I had you're faith.
Frank: Julie all you have to do is get up there and answer Dara's questions
and then Leopold's. All you have to do is believe in yourself.
Julie: You know Leopold is going to make me sound awful.
Frank: I think it will sound worse to you then it will the jury. I've
been watching the jury and they don't seem to be buying Leopold's hog wash.
Julie: Really?
Frank: Well I'm no expert on jury's but I just have a feeling they
are on our side. Besides Dara has undone every point Leopold has almost
made. And in all honesty Leopold has only tried to make people's past look
bad he has never been able or even really tried to contradict evidence
he's just tried to make people look bad the jury sees that.
Julie: But what happens when the defense presents there case? What
if it's strong?
Frank smiles reassuringly and kisses her.
Frank: It isn't.
Julie: How can you know that?
Frank: Because I've spoken to Dara and the defense consists of two
witnesses. Bennett, and a Dr. Toup Dimera. Dara says that Dr. will be easy
to discredit she says when he leaves the stand he'll look like a peace
of Swiss cheese.
Julie laughs.
Julie: Well that's encouraging I suppose.
Frank: Well we don't have to dwell on this for awhile longer what do
you say we concentrate on more pleasant matters.
Julie: Such as?
Frank: Setting a wedding date.
Julie: Well that certainly sounds nice. When were you thinking?
Frank: How about July 4th.
Julie: Independence day. Hmm that sounds very right for us.
Frank: My thoughts exactly so what do you say?
Julie: I love it!
Frank: You do?
Julie Kisses Frank passionately
Julie: Would you like a demonstration of how much I love it?
Frank smiles.
Frank: Do show.
They kiss passionately and pull the covers over their heads as they
roll into a passion filled embrace. They cling to one another sliding their
hands and lips along every inch of one another allowing themselves to fly
higher and higher in fierce passion there bodies entangled as one there
love as unbridled as it comes.
Later at the court house Julie, Frank, Joe, Karen, and Mary arrive.
Matt, Ellen, Eve, Scott, Lee, and Gail are already there.
Eve goes over to Julie.
Eve: I wanted to wish you luck on the stand today, and I wanted to
thank you for that great advice you gave Scott.
Julie smiles.
Julie: He told you how he feels huh.
Eve: yep and I told him that I love him to.
Julie: I'm glad now you just be careful with him okay I don't want
to see my brother getting hurt okay.
Eve: I'll be gentle I promise.
Eve smiles.
Julie: And thanks for the support I'm going to need it especially today.
Eve: You'll be fine.
Scott comes up behind Eve and wraps his arms around her.
Scott: Of course she'll be fine she's a Baldwin. Julie smiles.
Julie: Thanks Scott.
Lee and Gail come over.
Lee: Uhm hi Julie.
Gail: Hi Julie
Julie: Hi thanks for coming.
Lee: I uhm was wondering if you'd like to come over for dinner on Saturday.
Julie looks at tad hesitant.
Julie: Well okay that would be nice.
Gail: How about 7pm?
Julie: Okay I'll be there.
Lee: Great.
The judge comes in and everyone hurries for their seats.
Matt leans over and whispers to Julie.
Matt: Looks like someone is really building there family.
Julie: I'm trying.
Frank squeezes her and and kisses her.
Judge: This court is now in session. Ms. Jenson you may call your next
witness.
Dara: I call Dr. Julie Morris Devlin to the stand.
Frank gives Julie a reassuring smile and kiss as she gets up and takes
the stand.
Dara: Dr. Morris why do you go buy the name Morris?
Julie: When I came to Port Charles I wanted to make it on my own. I
wanted to be recognized for my own talents and abilities. I didn't want
to make it because of who my father is I wanted to make it because of who
I am. I also felt that making it on my own with out his money or influence
would make him proud of me. His opinion of me was very very important.
I just wanted him to be proud of me. So I decided the best way to do that
was to go buy a different name and not use any of his money or influence
I wanted to prove myself to him.
Dara: it sounds like you love your father very much.
Julie: I did I still do.
a tear runs down Julie's face she wipes it away.
Dara: And where did you get the name Morris?
Julie: it's my mother's maiden name.
Dara: So you didn't just pull it out of thin air?
Julie: No I did not.
Dara: When you found out about his infidelity towards your mother you
protected him didn't you?
Julie: I chose to make sure or at least try and make sure no one else
got hurt. So I forgave him and kept it from my mom. But she found out and
they divorced. I love my parents and I thought no telling might be better.
Dara: Julie could you tell the court about your child hood with your
father?
Julie takes a deep breath straightens her shoulders and begins.
Julie: From as early on as I can remember my father made an almost
nightly ritual of raping me. He'd come into my room lock the door behind
him come over to me then he'd pull of my covers. And he'd start doing things
to me a father should never do. It wasn't just in my bed either. I was
in his bed, the bathtub, or his car. He'd take me away on father daughter
trips and rape me for hours.
Julie dissolves in tears the court room gasps.
Scott clutches the arms of his chair as he turns three different shades
of red. Frank looks green and Joe has steam coming from his ears.
Dara hands Julie a tissue. Julie dabs at her eyes.
Julie: Thank you, he told me when I was young if I told that my mom
would hate me and though me out and I'd have no one. Then as I got older
the threat was that no one would like me and no boy would ever have me.
When I was 13 I got pregnant with his child and he made me abort it. Then
at 16 I for the first time tried telling and he beat me so bad I almost
died. Then he made me blame it on my then boyfriend and got the counselor
fired. He said if I didn't he'd ruin that kids life. He also said if I
ever told again he'd kill me.
The courtroom gasps.
Judge: Order in the court.
Dara: So what happened then?
Julie: I graduated high school and left. I pushed all of the memories
as far back in my head as I could get them. and I got on with my life.
then in April it all come flooding back. Well it had started coming back
in January but it came back full force in April and I just couldn't keep
it in so I confided in Frank who promised to protect me and convinced me
that we could win.
Dara: Julie do you still love Bennett Devlin/
Julie: There are parts to him that are good. He is a gifted Doctor
and he donates generously to good causes. I love what is good about him.
And I'm working very hard to forgive what isn't.
Dara smiles.
Dara: Thank you Dr. Morris. I have nothing further your honor.
Judge: Mr. Leopold your witness.
Leopold glides up to Julie.
Leopold: Dr. Morris you said it is very important to you for your Dad
to be proud of you is that correct?
Julie: yes it was very important it still is in a way.
Leopold: Last December he gave you a bad evaluation didn't he?
Dara: Objection your honor what importance dose that have to this case?
Leopold: Your honor if you'll bare with me I do have a point.
Judge: I'll allow it objection over ruled you may continue
Leopold: Please answer the question.
Julie: yes he did.
Leopold: You were mad at him weren't you?
Julie: I was upset yes but
Leopold: Upset enough to try and get revenge on him! Perhaps by making
a false accusation?
Julie: NO!
Leopold: Lets talk about the stress you've been under doctor. Interns
basically work 24,7 and you've had the added stress of being kidnapped
and having your boyfriend nearly die. That's a lot of stress wouldn't you
say?
Julie: Yes I suppose
Leopold: So much stress infact that you could easily have hallucinated
this whole thing! Nothing more your honor.
Julie looks flustered Frank gives her and encouraging smile
Judge: Ms. Jenson you may re cross.
Dara walks quickly to Julie.
Dara: When you got the bad eval who were you upset with?
Julie: Myself, he was right I hadn't been doing my best. Since then
I've worked much harder and my last eval was great. Infact I think my effort
is clear in the fact that my future husband is alive.
Dara: Julie have you done anything to control the stress in your life?
Julie: Since the original hostage crises last June I've been talking
to Dr. Kevin Collins on a regular basis. And he has given me many useful
suggestions for dealing with stress.
Dara: So you have been watchful of your mental state?
Julie: Yes, and I'd like to add that I was thankful for my Dad bad
eval it was a wake up call to take my job more seriously and it probably
contributed to my future husband being alive.
Dara: Nothing further your honor the prosecution rests.
Julie steps down and practically runs into Franks waiting arms. Frank
hugs her tightly.
Frank: You were great Julie just great.
Chapter 38
Julie settles into her seat in between Frank and Joe.
Frank: Julie you did great! You were strong and you didn't let Leopold
have an inch.
Joe: Julie you really should be proud of yourself.
Karen: Absolutely there is nothing more terrifying or rejuvenating
then facing your attacker.
Julie: Thanks I was so nerves but I do feel a little stronger now.
Mary: Well after facing that monster you most certainly are stronger.
Eve: And Julie you didn't look nerves up there. You looked great.
Scott: Well she's a Baldwin.
Julie: Thanks guys I really appreciate your support.
Judge: Will the court please come to order. Ms. Jenson the prosecution
is done?
Dara: That is correct your honor the prosecution rests.
Leopold: Your honor I move that the charges against my client be dismissed.
The prosecution has not well proven their case. The witnesses have been
completely biased and or discedible.
Julie: What's going on!
Joe: He can't do that can he!
Matt: What is this! The evidence is over whelming!
Ellen: He won't walk will he?
Frank: Scott you have to stop this Devlin can't walk!
Eve: Scott it was my testimony wasn't it that's how the defense can
claim this isn't it?!
Scott: No Eve your testimony showed what a creep Devlin is. If anything
it will help get him put away. And everyone relax Devlin isn't going anywhere.
This is a legal formality. In any trial when the prosecution is finished
any defense attorney worth anything and even Leopold who isn't asks that
the charges be dropped. It's just how the system works. But by this point
in the trail a judge rarely if ever agrees with the motion.
Judge: Order in the court order in the court! Mr. Leopold it is my
view that the prosecution has submitted credible witnesses and valid evidence.
So in light of that I deny the motion.
Julie and her supporters breath a sigh of relief.
Judge: Now Mr. Leopold is the defense ready? Or do you need more time?
Leopold: The defense is ready your honor.
Judge: Very well you may call your first witness.
Leopold: I'd like to call the defendant Dr. Bennett Devlin to the stand.
Devlin takes the stand and gives Julie a very dirty look. Julie cringes,
and Frank and Joe squeeze her hands.
Leopold: Dr. Devlin how long have you been a Doctor for?
Devlin: Almost 30 years.
Leopold: You must have saved a lot of lives in that time.
Dara: Objection your honor this line of questioning has nothing to
do with this case.
Leopold: Your honor I'm giving the jury a clearer picture of this man.
Judge: I'll allow it objection over ruled
Devlin: Yes I've saved many, but none meant more to be then when I
helped save Julie. She was born with a heart defect and I gave her care
my all. Even after I learned she was not my own. It is her life I'm most
proud of saving.
Eve whispers to Scott.
Eve: Oh gag me.
Leopold: And how would you describe your relationship with Julie as
she grew?
Devlin: Oh she was everything a father could want. Smart, kind, helpful,
athletic, ambitious. An all around great kid. We had such fun together.
We'd go on camping trips. We'd play sports together, we'd ride horses together.
We had the best relationship and I to this day love her and treasure her
deeply. Even with the horrid lies she's telling now.
Dara: Objection your honor the witness is trying to prejudice the jury.
Judge: Objection sustained. The jury is to disregard what it just heard.
Julie leans over and whispers to Frank.
Julie: But they can't erase it from their minds.
Frank squeezes Julie's hand.
Frank: We're going to win Julie just remember that we will win.
Leopold: Have things always been that good between you and your daughter?
Devlin puts a sad face on.
Devlin: No I'm afraid not. When she was around 12 her mother and I
started having real problems with her. Drugs, alcohol, wild parties. We
tried to worn her to stay away from those things but she wouldn't listen
that's how she got pregnant.
Dara: Objection this is all here say there is no proof what so ever
that any of that is true!
Judge: Objection sustained. The jury will disregard what they just
heard.
Mary: Is there any level to which that man won't sink!
Eve: Oh something tells me we've only seen the tip of the ice burg.
Scott: Yeah well my guess is they're trying to get the judge to call
a mistrial. If the jury is tampered enough with then the judge will have
no choice and Devlin will walk free until a new trial happens.
Julie: That can't happen!
Frank: It hasn't happened yet Julie just hang in there.
Lee: And it probably won't. Lets give the system a chance to work.
Leopold: Did your Daughter straighten out?
Dara: Objection we've seen no proof to say she was messed up!
Judge: Sustained please reword your question.
Leopold: Very well, did things with you and your Daughter go back to
how you remember them?
Devlin: Yes but not before she had a baby at age 18 and gave it up
for adoption.
The courtroom erupts in whispers.
Karen: I can not believe he is dragging Amber Rose into this!
Scott: Well it's a mistake Dara is going to annihilate him.
Joe: Well she better.
Karen: Joe please.
Leopold: I see so what happened then?
Devlin: She went back to being my pride and joy. Graduating head of
her class in College, then getting excepted at a major med school. And
now working at General Hospital. I thought the problems were over until
recently.
Leopold: What happened?
Devlin: Well besides the fact that she's always wanted to be famous
and she's never believed she could do it as long as I was in the field.
Dara: Objection that's here say!
Judge: Sustained Jury will disregard what they just heard.
Leopold: Mr. Devlin what has happened?
Devlin: Well between the great amount of stress, her boyfriend and
friends constantly trying to turn her against me, and her jealousy of me
it's clear that she's simply cracked!
Dara: Objection your honor Dr. Devlin is not a psychiatrist and his
opinion has no validation.
Leopold: Your honor as her father he dose have insight into her mind.
Leopold: Objection over ruled but proceed carefully Mr. Leopold or
I will find you and the witness in contempt I do not want to be forced
to call a mistrial.
Leopold: Yes your honor. Dr. Devlin one final question. Have you ever
hurt your daughter?
Devlin: No I have not.
Scott: Well that's perjury right there.
Julie: If we can prove it.
Frank: We will we will.
Leopold: Thank you Dr. Devlin nothing further your honor.
Judge: Ms. Jenson you may cross examine.
Dara: Dr. Devlin you stated that when your daughter was born that you
did everything you could to save her is that correct?
Devlin: Yes.
Dara: I have here a restraining order barring your medical insurance
from paying for Julie's heart surgery.
The court room erupts.
Devlin: This is slander!
Judge: Dr. Devlin please contain your self.
Leopold: Your honor this is unsubstantiated!
Dara: Your honor I have the proof right here.
She holds up a notarized and signed document declaring the restraining
of funds from Julie. She hands Devlin the document.
Dara: Is this your signature and may I remind you that you are under
oath.
Devlin: Yes it is but
Dara: That's enough Doctor yes or no will suffice. Now you claim that
your daughter used drugs and alcohol. Is that correct?
Devlin: Yes.
Dara: I pulled Julie's school records and discovered according to theses
(Dara holds up the papers) That Julie was a member of several anti-drug
and anti-alcohol programs through out her school career. Is that correct?
Devlin: Yes but
Dara: Most times it has been shown that students on drugs or alcohol
drop their scores in school, isn't that correct Dr.?
Devlin: Yes.
Dara: Well Julie's records also show that she never dropped below a
3.9 in her entire academic career. Dara is that correct?
Devlin: Yes but.
Eve: Talk about good grades coming in handy.
Julie: I always new they'd help me but I didn't expect like this.
Dara: Thank you.
Dara holds up some more papers.
Dara: When Julie had her abortion the doctors ran a drug screen and
found not a single drug in her system these files prove it.
Dara: I'd like to submit her records, the test results, and the restraining
order as evidence. The bailiff takes it.
Dara: Dr. Devlin you claim that the Scanlon's tried to come between
you and your daughter is that correct?
Devlin: yes.
Dara: But last November didn't they invite you to thanksgiving dinner
so that you all could be together?
Devlin: Yes but.
Dara: And lastly you claim you have never hurt your daughter and love
her deeply even now is that correct?
Devlin: Yes
Dara: Then why instead of trying to get her the help she needs if you
are correct are you glairing at her and making her out to be a misfit.
Leopold: Objection!
Dara: Nothing further your honor.
Frank: Touch down.
Judge: Mr. Leopold you may re cross.
Leopold: Dr. Devlin could you explain the restraining order.
Devlin shakes his head attempting to look sad.
Devlin: I had just learned Julie wasn't my biological child. I was
so hurt, angry, betrayed, depressed. I wasn't thinking right so in a moment
of emotional chaos I did that. But I did pay for her care once I came to
terms with it.
Leopold: And how long did that take?
Devlin: Two weeks at most.
Leopold: Your daughter took part in these anti drug and alcohol clubs
is that correct?
Devlin: yes
Leopold: But that doesn't mean that she herself wasn't a user.
Devlin: That is correct.
Leopold: How long dose it take for a drug to leave the human body?
Devlin: Around 24 hours.
Leopold: So if she hadn't taken any with in 24 hours of her abortion
then she could show up clean?
Devlin: Yes.
Leopold: And is it possible for a student to keep their grades up even
if they are on drugs?
Devlin: yes.
Leopold: And who invited you to thanks giving dinner?
Devlin: Mary Scanlon.
Leopold: And has she ever had a problem with you?
Devlin: No it's her sons that want my daughter to turn on me.
Dara: Objection that is here say and prejudicial!
Judge: Sustained the jury will disregard what they just heard.
Leopold: I have nothing further your honor.
Judge: Very well Dr. Devlin you may step down.
Julie: He erased everything Dara said!
Dara: Don't you worry I can take care of all of that in my closing
argument.
Scott: Yeah well you better because he's not going to get away with
this!
Eve: Scott calm down.
Mary: I wish now that I'd never invited him!
Matt: I can't believe that monster he has no conscience!
Frank: Dara said she'd fix it lets not panic.
Judge: Mr. Leopold you may call your next witness.
Leopold: I'd like to call Dr. Toup Dimera to the stand.
Leopold: Dr. Dimera could you please state your specialty to the court.
Dimera: I'm a Psychiatrist. I specialize in analyzing, diagnosing,
and treating emotionally, psychologically, and behaviorally disturbed adults.
Leopold: How long have you been a Doctor?
Dimera: 35 years.
Leopold: Where did you most recently work?
Dimera: I worked at Mercy for 25 years and had a private practice for
5 years.
Leopold: Could you please explain false memory to the court.
Dimera: False memory is a memory that has been planted in a persons
head by someone else. Then this memory grows as it's fed by the person
or persons that put it there. The person believes this memory to be there
own but infact it's not.
Leopold: I see and what could cause a person to be susceptible to such
memories being planted?
Dimera: Extreme stress, anger, and or exhaustion
Leopold: I see and could the stress of an internship, being held hostage
twice, and having a loved one near death be enough to open a person up
to this?
Dimera: Oh yes easily.
Leopold: I see and could the anger of an affair, and divorce along
with criticism be enough to leave a person vulnerable?
Dimera: Oh most definitely?
Leopold: You also mentioned exhaustion would the exhaustion of an internship
be enough?
Dimera: Yes it would.
Leopold: And good friends, and a boyfriend have enough power to place
these memories?
Dimera: Anyone the person trusts could.
Leopold: Thank you. Nothing further your honor.
Dara: Dr. Dimera is it obvious whether or not a memory has been planted?
Dimera: No it takes careful analyses.
Dara: I see Dr. Dimera have you ever met Julie?
Dimera: Well no
Dara: Have you ever communicated directly with her in anyway?
Dimera shifts in his seat.
Dimera: Well not exactly.
Dara: Have you ever communicated with any of her friends or family
besides Bennett Devlin?
Dimera: No.
Dara: Dr. how long dose it generally take to facilitate such memories?
Dimera: It could take several months at least.
Dara: Dr. could you please tell us why you left Mercy, and may I remind
you you are under oath.
Dimera squirms.
Dimera: We had a differing of opinions.
Dara holds up a document.
Dara: According to this you were fired after verbally and physically
attacking a patent who wouldn't except there abuse memories as false. And
this is a notarized document.
The court room gasps.
Dimera: Well yes but I was stressed.
Dara: I'd like to submit this document from the head of mercy as evidence.
The bailiff takes it.
Frank: And she's bringing it into the end zone.
Dara: Dr. Dimera you don't have your practice any longer is that correct?
Dimera: Sinks into his seat
Dimera: No I don't.
Dara: And why is that?
Dimera: I'm retired.
Dara: According to this document (Dara holds up another file.) You
were stripped of your med license after you convinced a women that her
memories of her ex-beating her were false. She went back to him and was
murdered 3 days later.
The courtroom gasps.
Dimera: It was a mistake!
Dara: I'd like to submit this license removal as evidence.
Frank: Touch down!
The bailiff takes it.
Dara: I have nothing further your honor.
Judge: Very well, Mr. Leopold would you like to re-cross?
Leopold glairs at Dimera.
Leopold: I have nothing more to ask this witness. The Defense rests.
Julie: They what!
Frank: Well it looks like Devlin is hanging himself.
Eve: No he just thinks he's going to get off that's all.
Scott: He's to cocky for his own good and for us that's going to pay
off big time.
Judge: Very well, We'll here closing arguments tomorrow at 9am sharp.
This court room stands adjourned.
Dara: Were in the home stretch now people.
Julie: I just want this to be over with.
Frank: It will be very soon, and when it is he will never be able to
hurt you again.
Joe: And don't forget punished once and for all.
Lee and Gail come over.
Lee: Julie we just wanted to let you know how impressed we were with
you on the stand today you did great.
Gail: Oh yes you sure did.
Julie: Thank you both.
The group leaves the court house.
Chapter 39
The next morning everyone at the Scanlon house is bravely facing another
day in court. Today the closing arguments will be given. Then it will be
in the hands of the jury. Mary is making everyone a big breakfast to get
them off to a good start.
Mary: Frank, Julie, Joe, Karen, Amber Rose, Eve come on now I've made
breakfast for everyone get down here so you can enjoy it before we head
off to court.
Frank comes down carrying Amber Rose on his shoulders and holding Julie's
hand.
Frank: Hey Ma breakfast looks great thanks. But when are you going
to start calling before you come over.
Frank grins at his Mom.
Julie playfully slaps Franks arm.
Julie: Frank!
Mary looks at Julie.
Mary: Do you believe him I slave over a hot stove all morning and this
is the thanks I get.
Frank: Ah come on Ma you know you wouldn't want it any other way.
Mary: Oh just sit down before your breakfast gets cold.
Frank plops Amber Rose in a chair and pulls out Julie's chair for her.
Then he sits in between them.
Amber Rose: It smells great grandma.
Mary: Thanks sweetie. So Julie how are you feeling?
Julie: Happy that the trial is about to end. But nervous about what
the out come may be. I mean it's not as if a bad guy has never gotten away
with his crime before.
Frank: Well Bennett Devlin isn't going to be one of those guys, he
will go to jail. Julie I swear to you I will make sure he pays.
Julie smiles at Frank.
Julie: How do you do that?
Frank: Do what?
Julie: How do you make everything seem so right. You always make me
feel that there is no problem that we can't fix.
Frank smiles at Julie and takes her hand.
Frank: Simple I love you and when love is in charge there is nothing
that can't be achieved.
Amber Rose: I think I'm getting a cavity.
Frank and Julie start laughing.
Mary: Joe, Karen, Eve come on you have to eat breakfast.
Joe and Karen come down hand in hand.
Joe: Hey Ma breakfast smells great, I'm starving.
Karen shakes her head and laughs.
Karen: What's new.
Joe: Hey I'm a growing boy.
Karen: Well it dose look great.
Mary: Well thank you now take your seat and eat up before it gets cold.
Speaking of breakfast getting cold where is Eve. I came over to cook for
the whole crew so where is she.
Julie: Oh she spent the night at Scott's.
Karen: Again wow their not letting any grass grow under their feet.
Julie: I'm glad their not life is way to short to let it.
Joe: So is everybody ready for the last day?
Julie: More then ready.
Karen: I still can't believe that Leopold only called to witnesses,
I mean talk about a weak defense.
Joe: And Dara slaughtered that Dr. Dimera guy.
Mary: What strikes me as strange is that Leopold didn't even try to
recross him he just left it.
Frank: It's called over confidences. Devlin is convinced he'll get
off, and Leopold probably feels that he will get Devlin off. Those to are
so cocky it's amazing they've made it this far in life with out getting
their butts kicked.
Karen: But why didn't he try to recross? Cocky or not he had to of
seen the mess Dara made.
Joe: There was probably nothing Leopold could say. Dara had the proof
and maybe if Leopold tried to fix it it would have made a bigger mess for
him.
Julie: It's strange but then again my Dad I mean my adopted Dad has
never really been in a fight like this. You know where money and power
won't by him out so he probably doesn't have a clue as to what he's doing.
Frank: He probably doesn't, and as for Leopold well it's not like he
has a lot of ways to defend him. I mean the charges are true so to get
him off isn't exactly easy.
Amber Rose: Can I come to closing arguments today?
Julie: No sweetie you need to go to school.
Frank: Yeah and on top of that I don't want you with in 10 miles of
that man.
Joe: Besides it's not fun.
Amber Rose looks disappointed.
Amber Rose: Oh okay.
Frank: Hey I got an idea after you get home from school and your mom
and I get back from court lets go check out that monster movie and get
some pizza. What do you think?
Amber Rose: Cool! Can Serena come?
Frank: It's fine with me. Your mom and I are going to see him at the
court house today so we'll ask there.
Amber Rose: Awesome!
The school bus beeps.
Frank: There is your bus.
Julie: Oh my gosh her lunch!
Mary hands Amber Rose her lunch box.
Mary: I made her lunch before I started breakfast. I figured you'd
need a little help. I know you've been under a lot of stress.
Julie: Thank you Mary.
Mary: That's what Grandma's are for.
Amber Rose Hugs and Kisses everyone goodbye and rushes out the door.
Joe: Uh Mom not that I'm complaining I'm thrilled that your excepting
Karen more these days. But Uh how did you know she slept over?
Mary smiles and shakes her head.
Mary: I wasn't born yesterday Joe her car is parked right out side
and no one was up when I got here.
Frank: I guess those would be clues.
Everyone laughs.
Frank: Well we should be going.
Julie: Lets get it over with.
Karen: I'm sure Dara's going to bury Devlin in her closing argument.
Joe: Well she's done a good job so far.
Julie: I'm just worried about what Leopold is going to say.
Mary: Now have faith Julie. I'm sure the jury has heard enough to know
not to listen to that man.
The Scanlons leave for court. Over at the fire house. Scott and Eve
are getting ready to go.
Scott: Well today is the last day.
Eve: I'm sure Julie is thankful for that.
Scott: Yeah, I'm sure she is and with any luck this time next month
Devlin will be rotting away in sing sing
Eve: Oh that would be great. But the thing that gets me is the defense
it made no sense. I mean Leopold called Devlin and a doctor. Dara slaughtered
them both and Leopold didn't even bother to try to make Dimera look better.
And then he says it's over. It really doesn't make sense.
Scott: Well you see all the Defense has to do is raise reasonable doubt.
If there is any reasonable doubt then the jury is supposed to find the
defendant not guilty. My guess is Leopold thinks that he has discredited
the prosecutions witnesses enough that there is reasonable doubt. So he
doesn't need to do anything more.
Eve: Do you think he could get off?
Scott: The one thing I've learned as a lawyer is anything is possible
in a court case. You can never truly know what a jury is going to do. Sometimes
you think you have them wrapped around your finger and they turn on you.
Or you think they are going to eat you for breakfast and they side with
you. You just never know.
Eve: Oh My God Scott what if he gets off! Then what?! Can he be tried
again?
Scott: Well he can't be tried on criminal charges but Julie could sue
him for emotional damage and clean out is bank account. But listen lets
not worry about that right now. Okay lets focus on the present which is
there is a good chance Devlin is going to be locked up.
Eve: I'll do my best. So Julie is having dinner with your parents on
Saturday?
Scott: Yeah I talked to Lee last night he and Gail are very excited
and nervous. I know how Lee feels I remember when I was getting to know
Karen. It was so strange and awkward for both of us at first but what kept
at it and now.
Eve smiles.
Eve: And now she is as much your little girl as Serena is.
Scott: Oh yeah, I hope Julie and Lee get that to. It really is a great
thing. Well we better go.
Scott and Eve leave hand in hand.
At the court house the group is surprised to see Chris there.
Frank: What is he doing here?
Joe: I don't know maybe he's taking up a new hobby or something.
Matt: Maybe he's going to see if he can snatch some purses while we're
all focusing on the closing arguments.
Ellen laughs.
Ellen: Matt! your terrible.
Karen: It really is strange, He's been here a lot.
Julie: Well maybe he's trying to turn over a new leaf.
Frank: That guy I doubt it.
Joe: Yeah he only turns over leafs if there is money under them.
Eve: Why don't you guys just knock it off! You don't know everything
about Chris. And until the rest of you are perfect I suggest you don't
judge him.
Everyone looks at each other in surprise. As Eve wipes her face with
a tissue visibly upset. Scott puts his arm around her.
Scott: Hey come on now Chris is a big boy he can take care of himself.
Karen: Eve we didn't mean to upset you it's just surprising to see
him here that's all.
Matt: Yeah Chris is usually only interested in himself.
Eve: I know that maybe how it seems but there is a lot about Chris
you just don't know.
Julie looks at Eve sympathetically.
Julie: And you do know a lot about Chris. I'm sorry Eve we know he's
your friend and it was rude of us to pick on him right in front of you.
Frank: Yeah I may not like the guy but I don't need to make something
of it every time I see him.
Matt: Either do I sorry Eve.
Joe: We're friends here and friends don't talk badly about people there
friends care for.
Eve: it's alright I understand your feelings and there is no way you
could know what's going on with him. Lets just forget about it.
Everyone agrees to, just then Chris comes over.
Chris: Hi Everyone, Julie I just wanted to tell you how brave I think
you are to be doing this. I really admire you for it. And I hope they lock
Devlin away and throw away the key.
Everyone just looks at each other.
Julie: Thanks Chris.
Chris: Your welcome, Oh and if I can ever be of any help please let
me know.
Julie: That's very nice of you Chris, but I think I'm set.
Chris: That's good, you're lucky to have all this support.
Julie: I know, I thank God for everyone I have here ever night.
Chris smiles and takes his seat.
Scott: What was that!
Matt: Chris doing his human impression.
Eve: Matt stop it just stop it!
Karen: Oh come on Eve you have to admit that was strange.
Eve: I don't have to admit any such thing.
Judge: This court is in session please be seated.
Judge: Today we will here the closing arguments. Mr. Leopold you may
go first.
Leopold stands up and strides over to the jury.
Leopold: Thank you your honor. Your honor, ladies and gentlemen of
the jury this case should never have come to trail. What we have here are
this sick, bogus, and down right hateful lies of a spoiled, greedy, success
hungry, delusional young women. ( Julie starts to look down at her feet
as tears fill her eyes. Frank and Joe squeeze Julie's hands tightly. Frank:
Julie chin up Leopold is the liar you have nothing to be ashamed of. Julie
smiles and looks up.) Whose mind has been tampered with and these delusions
made to seem real by selfish, vengeful, liars who hate the defendant. The
state has proven nothing. Every witness that got on the stand has a bias
against my client. Everyone has a reason to want him sent away. And most
of them are completely uncredible. I mean why should we believe an ex-hooker,
or a man that was once on trial for rape? Why should we believe a counselor
who led a student to suicide, or a doctor that was given a hard time by
Devlin. Or the boyfriend Devlin tried to get rid of. These people are not
credible witnesses, and the papers well ladies and gentlemen they can be
forged. My client is a great Doctor with a huge heart who would never hurt
anyone. He has been a loving and good father. And this is how he is being
repaid with vicious and hateful lies. With people turning his own daughter
against him! Ladies and Gentlemen of the jury the state has proven nothing
and it is for that reason alone that you must find him not guilty. There
is more then reasonable doubt here and reasonable doubt means you must
find my client not guilty. But if you feel obligated to scrutinize this
so called evidence lets not forget Dr. Dimera now has he made mistakes
yes he has. But ladies and Gentle men all Doctors have. They are human
after all. He is a trained Doctor and he knows the signs of false memory.
And since were looking at mistakes lets look at the track record of must
of the witnesses put on the stand by the prosecution. Hardly a convincing
case. Should you believe the lying, cheating, vengeful ex? Or one of the
many other less then grand witnesses. Remember if it's reasonable then
release my client. Thank you.
Leopold sits down.
Julie: Can you believe that man!
Frank squeezes Julie's hand.
Frank: Julie it's okay it really wasn't that bad. I'm sure Dara has
a great closing argument up her sleeve. Everything is going to be fine
you'll see just hang in there.
Mary: Keep the faith Julie keep the faith.
Judge: Ms. Jenson you may now give your closing arguments.
Dara strides confidently up to the jury.
Dara: Thank you your honor. Your honor, ladies and gentlemen of the
jury. If you will please close your eyes now I want you to picture a child
you know in your head. Perhaps a son or daughter, maybe a niece or nephew.
Or maybe just a friends kid. Now I want you to get a clear picture of this
child in your heads. See them in their PJ's all snuggled up under their
blankets perhaps holding a special toy or blanket. The room is dark and
quite with maybe only the light of a night light shinning. I want you to
think of their innocence, their peace and security. I want you to think
of how much they depend on their parents for everything and how they think
of them as God's. Now I want you to picture that same child. lying in that
same worm bed all snuggled up only this time I want you to see the door
to their room opening and see a parent whom they trust more then words
can say come in pull off their blankets rip the toy out of their hands
and take their innocence away. I want you to picture that parent pulling
off the child's PJ's as the child clutches them desperately. I want you
to here the child cry as the parent begins touching them in very private
places. I want you to see the pain on that child's face As the parent has
intercourse with this terrified child. Now I want you to here this child
be told that it's there fault and see the shame in that child's eyes. For
children trust their parents no matter what. Now I want you to imagine
this child going through this every night from birth till they are 18.
Alright you can open your eyes now.
The jury opens their eyes most of them look like they're going to be
sick. Some are crying.
Dara: Ladies and gentlemen that scenario is what happened to Julie
Devlin her father stole her innocence, her self worth, her child hood.
And for what? His own sexual release! Now imagine the guilt when that same
child tries to tell and the people who have tried to help her get punished
and they are nearly killed. That to is what happened to Julie. Now imagine
getting pregnant by a parent imagine the horror and shame and imagine when
it as everything else ever having to do with your body is taken out of
your control. Julie endured all of this and more. Ladies and Gentlemen
I could go on for house but none of us can ever fully imagine the pain
and loss that Julie has suffered. We can't give her back her child hood,
and we can't undo what was done. But we can make sure that the man who
stole her innocence is finally brought to justice. The defense would have
you believe that Julie is delusional but they have not proven that in anyway.
Nor have they even settled on a defense. One minute they're telling you
she's a liar then she's a delusional then she's been brain washed. Ladies
and gentlemen you are smarter then this. Why would Julie put herself through
this trial if it wasn't true? And who got all of these people to go along
with this story? These are people that live through out the country are
totally unconnected and most didn't even meet until this trail began, and
those that did know each other hadn't seen one another in years. The defense
says that they all have vendettas but the defense hasn't show us one strong
enough to explain why this large group of people would get together and
force Julie to hurt her father? And as for the credibility. Ladies and
Gentlemen yes Dr. are human and do make mistakes but not to the severity
Dr. Dimera has, if they did he would still be practicing. And know Dr.
no matter how good can diagnose with out seeing the patient. And as for
the forging of documents there are simple ways of telling if document is
forged and I'd be a pretty lousy lawyer if I couldn't tell. Further more
the defense had the chance to see these documents and if they believed
they were forged could have had an expert come and say so. But they didn't.
Why you ask? Simple ladies and gentlemen because they weren't. This man
this monstrous animal raped and beat his daughter for years and used his
money and power to get away with it. Ladies and Gentlemen please help that
child please help Julie please find this animal guilty and let it be known
that justice can't be bought. Thank you.
Eve: Now that's a closing argument.
Scott: Well if I was the jury I'd sure send him to sing sing.
Frank looks green, and there are tears in his eyes.
Julie: Frank?
Frank: When Dara was talking I was imagining Amber Rose and then I
started thinking of you and Oh Julie I hate this. I wish I could go back
in time and save you from all of this.
Julie smiles.
Julie: You've done the next best thing, you've given me a present and
a future that shines bright enough to cover up the past. I love you Frank.
Frank: I love you two Julie.
Judge: Members of the jury you will now be taken to the jury chambers
to discuss the case and reach your verdict. When the verdict is reached
the defendant, and the lawyers will have 30 minutes to get to court to
here the verdict. This court is adjourned.
Julie: Now what?
Scott? Now we wait.
Joe: How long do you think it will take?
Scott: it's hard to say with Juries.
Lee: The best thing I can tell you to do is hope for the best and prepare
for the worst.
Julie: Alright.
Frank: You ready to go?
Julie: Yes please lets get out of here.
The group leaves arm in arm.
Chapter 40
It is around noon on Friday. It has been 24 hours since the jury got
the case. Frank is in the living room reading when he hears the sound of
a basketball hitting the garage. Frank comes out to the back and finds
Julie shooting hoops. Frank watches her from the door. He remembers the
first time they played basket ball. It was after the nurses ball last year,
they played in the dark in there nurses ball clothes. He thinks back and
smiles fondly. Julie looks over and sees him staring at her. She throws
the ball at him, and he catches it a little startled.
Julie: Penny for your thoughts.
Frank comes down the stairs holding the ball.
Frank: You remember the first time we played basket ball?
Julie smiles as the memory comes back.
Julie: It was after the nurses ball. We were all dressed up, if anyone
drove by I'm sure they would have thought we were crazy.
Frank: Well in away they would've been right.
Julie looks confused, Frank smiles.
Frank: I was already getting a little crazy over you.
Julie smiles.
Julie: That's sweet, I was already getting a little crazy over you
to.
Frank tosses her the ball.
Frank: Wanna play?
Julie: Okay but don't expect that complement to get you any extra points.
Julie laughs, Frank pretends to be disappointed.
Frank: And I worked so hard on that speech.
They laugh.
Frank: So what are the steaks?
Julie shakes her head.
Julie: Your just gluten for punishment aren't you.
Frank: Hey what makes you so sure your gonna win? I've been practicing.
Julie: Fine what do you want to bet?
Frank: How about the looser treats the winner to dinner at Mario's
tonight?
Julie smiles.
Julie: That sounds nice. It will certainly take my mind off of waiting
for the verdict.
Frank: Well you definitely deserve to get your mind off of that. Although
I have to say I really think we're gonna win. I just don't see how the
jury could side with him.
Julie sighs.
Julie: He's powerful.
Frank: Julie no man is so powerful that he can get away with horrible
crimes forever.
Julie: I hope your right.
Frank: I'm sure I am. Now are we gonna play or what!
Julie tosses him the ball.
Julie: Oh I can just smell that pasta.
At Matt's place Matt and Ellen are about to have lunch. Matt is acting
a little nervous to Ellen's confusion. Matt goes to the dinning area while
Ellen is in the kitchen and slips a little velvet box under the napkin
he has placed on her plate. Ellen comes in with lunch and they sit down.
When Ellen picks up the napkin she sees the box and looks at Matt questioningly.
Matt comes over and takes her hands in his.
Matt: Ellen I have loved you from the first moment I laid eyes on you.
And though we've known each other less then a year somehow I feel that've
known you from the beginning of time. You are the women of my dreams. You
are my heart my soul my everything. Ellen I can't predict the future and
tell you that we'll always be happy or that we'll always understand one
another. But I can promise you that I will always love you, and I will
always do my best to be what you need. Ellen life is short, and it's to
short to delay a dream or a wish for even a minute. And my wish as well
as my dream is for you to accompany me on this journey of life as my wife.
So Ellen Rachel Burgess will you marry me?
Matt picks up the box and takes how a huge rock of a ring.
Ellen's eyes are full of tears she is speechless. Finally she finds
her voice.
Ellen: Oh Matt this is so sudden, but somehow it feels so right. Yes
Matt yes I'd be honored to be your wife.
Matt slips the ring on Ellen's finger and they kiss passionately.
Over at the fire house Scott and Eve are snuggling on the couch.
Eve: That was some lunch chef Baldwin.
Scott: Ahh yes chip beef on toast my finest creation.
They both laugh.
Eve: So what are you thinking about?
Scott: Oh just how happy I am and how much I love you.
Eve smiles.
Eve: That's so sweet. I love you to.
Scott: So what do you think about us living together.
Eve sits up and looks at Scott.
Eve: Are you serious you want me to move in?
Scott: Well yeah, I mean Eve I love you and I want to be near you always.
Life is to short to put off going after what makes you happy and you make
me happy.
Eve: What about Serena?
Scott: What about Serena she's crazy about you?
Eve: And I'm crazy about her but do you really think it's such a good
idea for me to be living here with you when were not married. I don't want
Serena to get the wrong idea.
Scott: What wrong idea would that give her? How could it be bad for
her to see to people who are in love sharing a home. Love is so rare and
beautiful I want Serena to learn to see it has something that should dance
in the light not be shut away. For along time I shut love away but no more
I want to celebrate it!
Eve smiles.
Eve: Well I want to celebrate it to!
Scott: So you'll move in?
Eve: Under one condition.
Scott: Uho here it comes so what do you want.
He smiles and Eve laughs.
Eve: A promise that we won't always just be living together. I do want
to get married someday and have kids of my own.
Scott thinks for a minute.
Scott: I'm sure in time probably sooner rather then later I will be
ready for marriage again but not at this point.
Eve: Okay that's good enough for me.
They kiss tenderly.
Back at the Scanlon house Joe and Karen are sitting in the living room
watching T.V.
Karen: It seems strange to not be in court today. So much of our time
lately has revolved around it.
Joe: I know this morning I woke up and looked at my clock. It said
9:23 I shot out of bed in a full panic thinking I was late for court then
I realized that the trial is over and we're just waiting for the verdict.
Karen: I hope the verdict comes soon. I'm sure Julie would like to
put this behind her.
Joe: I know but even if he's found guilty until the sentencing it won't
really be behind her.
Karen: I hope they do find him guilty.
Joe: They'd be idiots not to. Well on a happier note. I here tomorrow
you and Julie are going for dress fittings for the wedding.
Karen smiles.
Karen: yeah it's going to be nice, she's picked out these very pretty
brides maids dresses. oh but they pale in comparison to her dress it's
beautiful beyond words. She looks like a fairy princess in it.
Joe: What dose it look like?
Karen: I can't tell you. Knowing you you'll tell Frank and the groom
can't know what the wedding dress looks like because it's bad luck.
Joe: That's only if he sees it.
Karen: Sorry Julie swore me to secrecy.
Joe: Well I wouldn't want to make you break a promise. So what else
do you girls have planned?
Karen: Well after the dress fittings we're going to a day spa for manicures,
pedicure, facial, a massage, and makeover, and getting our hair done. A
full day of beauty.
Joe: Wow sounds like you're really going to be pampered.
Karen: It was Gail's idea. She bought us gift certificates. She said
that she didn't know of two ladies who deserved it more.
Joe: Well I certainly agree with that. Julie needs to get her mind
off of everything and relax. And you well you deserve the world on a golden
platter.
Karen smiles.
Karen: You think so?
Joe turns and looks at Karen very seriously.
Joe: Karen if I could give you the world I would. If I could give you
every star in the sky, and every drop of sunshine I would. Karen I I love
you Karen. I have since I was 8 years old. You are my best friend, my fantasy,
my dream come alive, my love.
Karen is crying.
Karen: Oh Joe I don't know what to say I love you to. I've loved you
for awhile now but I was afraid. Joe you have meant more to me and been
more to me then you'll ever know. I love you to the depths of my soul.
They kiss passionately. Just then the phone rings Joe moans as he pulls
away from Karen and grabs the phone.
Joe: Scanlon's Joe speaking.
Dara: Joe it's Dara Jenson are Frank and Julie there? The verdicts
in.
Joe bolts up right.
Joe: Yeah there outside I'll go get them, we'll be there soon.
Joe hangs up the phone.
Karen: Joe what is it?
Joe: The verdicts in.
Outside Frank and Julie are playing. And as usual Julie is wiping the
drive way with Franks butt.
Julie: One more hoop Mr. Scanlon and that's the game!
Frank: Have mercy on me.
They laugh as Julie shoots and Frank tries to block it. But the ball
goes in nothing but net.
Frank: Well that's one Italian dinner to curly haired lass who stole
my heart.
Frank takes her in his arms.
Frank: I just hope Amber Rose grows up to play like her mom and not
like me.
Julie laughs.
Julie: Oh sweetie she already dose.
They kiss passionately. Just then Joe comes racing out.
Joe: Guys we have to get to the court house now Dara just called the
verdict is in!
Frank and Julie look at each other.
Frank: You ready?
Julie takes a deep breath.
Julie: As ready as I'll ever be.
Hand in hand they race to the car.
Soon at the court house Joe, Karen, Frank, Julie, Mary, Scott, Eve,
Matt, Ellen, Lee, Gail, Chris, and Nicole are all assembled. Julie sits
in between Frank and Joe as usual. Dara comes in.
Dara: Well guys this is it.
Nicole: Any idea what the jury is going to say?
Dara: Mrs. Devlin I learned a long time ago never to predict what a
jury was going to say.
Julie: Ms. Jenson I wanted to thank you. You did a great job, and know
matter how the verdict goes I want you to know that I appreciate everything
you've done. The prosecution couldn't have been anything less then perfect.
Dara smiles.
Dara: Why thank you Julie, and please call me Dara.
Julie smiles.
Julie: Your welcome Dara.
The judge comes in.
Judge: Please be seated this court is now in session.
The jury is brought in.
Judge: Has the jury reached a verdict?
The jury foreman stands up.
Foremen: We have your honor.
The foremen hands the bailiff a peace of paper with the verdict written
on it. The bailiff hands the verdict to the judge who reads it. The judge
then hands the paper back to the bailiff who gives it back to the foreman.
Judge: Would the defendant please rise and face the jury.
Leopold and Devlin stand up.
Judge: Mr. Foremen please read the verdict.
Frank and Joe squeeze Julie's hands tightly.
Foremen: In the case of the state verses Dr. Bennett Devlin on the
charge raping his daughter Julie Devlin for close to 18 years we the jury
find the defendant Bennett Devlin guilty as charged. On the charge of battery
and attempted murder of his daughter Julie Devlin we the jury find the
defendant Bennett Devlin guilty as charged.
The court room erupts. Julie's side cheers and hugs. Frank and Julie
are crying and hugging.
Frank: it's over Julie you did it you got him punished.
Julie: What is this I did it. Frank none of this would have been possible
if it wasn't for you. I love you Frank. Oh my God I can't believe it's
over and we won we really won!
Devlin: I've been framed I've been framed! I'm innocent I'm innocent!
You little tramp!
Devlin lunges at Julie. Scott and Joe are on there feet in a mila second.
Scott slugs Devlin to the ground. Joe kicks him. Two bailiffs grab Joe
and Scott and hold him back while another grabs Devlin.
Scott: You stay away from my sister you beast!
Devlin: I'll make you pay Julie you hear me I'll make you pay!
Frank jumps up
Frank: Over my dead body she'll pay! You will never hurt her in anyway
ever again you animal! I love her and I don't permit things to happen to
those I love!
Judge: Order in the court order in the court!
The defendant will be held in custody until sentencing on Monday at
9am. Members of the jury thank you for your time you may be excused.
The jury leaves and Devlin is taken into custody.
Julie is crying Frank holds her tight to his chest.
Frank: It's over Julie it's over. We won and he can never hurt you
again. As God as my witness you are safe and you'll stay safe forever.
Joe: Franks right Julie Devlin can never get to you with all of us
around.
Mary: and We'll always be around.
Karen: It's time to celebrate Julie.
Julie takes a deep breath and dries her eyes.
Julie: I know and believe me I'm glad he's getting punished but he's
the only Dad I've ever known and it's still hard.
Matt: I know what you mean Julie. Even after everything he did to me.
Even though he put me in this chair and tried to kill me I still miss Bobby.
He was my brother and I loved him.
Ellen: You can't cut yourself off from people no matter how much you
might want to. It just doesn't work.
Frank: How can I help Julie what do you need?
Julie smiles.
Julie: All I ever need is you at my side.
Frank: Well you have me forever and ever.
They kiss tenderly.
Dara: Congratulations Julie justice was truly served today.
Lee: I'll say it was. That was great work Ms. Jenson.
Gail: Oh yes it really was.
Dara: Well thank you, it's easy when the case is so open and shut.
Nicole: Thank you for helping my daughter. I mean I know you were just
doing your job but.
Dara: Mrs. Devlin if I didn't put my heart into it I wouldn't be doing
my job. I approach my cases as if the victim is a member of my family.
That always gives me an edge. And here I have something for everyone before
we leave.
Dara pulls out a bunch of small bottles of water and passes them out.
Dara: I know it's not the same as wine but a celebratory toast must
be made and alcohol isn't aloud in the court house.
Frank smiles.
Frank: I thought you said you didn't predict.
Dara: I don't but that doesn't mean I can't hope.
Frank holds one of the bottles high.
Frank: To Julie may her future be so bright that the past is blotted
out. And to justice may Devlin never see the light of day again.
Everyone knocks there bottled water together. After several toasts
with water everyone heads home.
Chapter 41
It is late Saturday afternoon. After spending the day at the spa with
Karen, Julie is getting ready to go to dinner at Lee and Gail's. Karen
has come over to offer moral support. Julie is up stairs getting ready
when she comes.
Karen knocks.
Julie: Come in.
Karen walks in happily.
Karen: Hey Aunt Julie ready for dinner with Dad?
Julie: Oh sure soon as my stomach un-knots.
Karen: I remember how nervous I was when I was first getting to know
Scott.
Julie: How did you do it?
Karen: I'm not sure really. I guess we both just put one foot in front
of the other and started moving towards one another. It also helped that
we both under stood that both parties involved were nervous.
Julie: How did you get past the nervousness?
Karen: Well time took care of a lot of it. I mean the more time you
spend with someone the less nervous your bound to be. Speaking of Scott
how are things going on that front?
Julie: Well we had a great dinner together the other night. And we've
spoken on the phone several times. And with Serena and Amber Rose becoming
such good friends we've seen each other a couple times since then anyway.
Karen: And?
Julie: And he's easy to talk to. He's funny, and kind. I think I could
really grow to love having him as my brother.
Karen smiles.
Karen: He's very easy to love that's for sure. Maybe you could handle
tonight the same way you handled your dinner with Scott. You said it went
well didn't it?
Julie: Yeah went great but this it's just it's just different.
Karen: Because this isn't a adopted brother witch in all honesty is
what Scott is, but rather your real Dad?
Julie: I know it shouldn't make a difference but it dose.
Karen: Julie I understand, but you don't have to think of it as making
or breaking the future of your relationship with him tonight. Just think
of it as what it is. You're having dinner with him so that you can get
to know him.
Julie: Is that what you did with Scott?
Karen: Pretty much, I didn't look on any one encounter as being more
significant then any other. I just took every moment for what it was and
enjoyed it.
Julie: Well it sounds easier then stressing out about every moment.
Karen: Well believe me it's easier said then done. I had to remind
myself to do that every time I saw him. I'd be like oh my gosh were having
lunch! What do I wear what do I say what should I eat! I can't even begin
to tell you how many apples I bought.
Julie laughs.
Karen: Then I'd just make myself stop and I'd remind myself that this
one meeting wasn't going to make a difference as much as all the meetings
were going to.
Julie: That makes sense.
Karen: So what's Frank up to tonight? Is he coming with you?
Julie: Know we thought it would be better for me to start building
something on my own with him before I bring others into the mix. He's taking
Amber Rose for pizza and bowling.
Karen: I think that's a good idea to just get to know Lee alone first.
It's nice that Frank and Amber Rose have become so close so fast.
Julie: Well he's the closest thing she's ever known to a father, and
he is such a good role model. They really do love each other. I'm so grateful
for that. So what do you and Joe have planned?
Karen: Joe is taking me to the Port Charles Grill for dinner.
Julie: That sounds nice.
Karen: Well Joe felt that after being pampered all day a nice dinner
was the correct ending.
Julie: That was so nice of Gail to give us that day of beauty gift
certificate wasn't it?
Karen: It really was. Gail is a great lady, and she wanted to give
us both something that would release us for a bit from the pressure cooker
we live in.
Julie laughs.
Julie: Pressure cooker huh.
Karen: What would you call it.
Julie thinks for a minute.
Julie: A pressure cooker.
They both laugh.
Julie: Well I'd better be going. Have fun tonight with Joe.
Karen: You have fun to and try and relax.
Julie: I'll do my best.
They hug and Julie leaves.
Over at Lee and Gail's place Lee is nervously getting ready.
Lee: Gail what time is it?
Gail: It's 6:45
Lee: What time is Julie going to be here?
Gail: Julie will be here at 7:00
Lee: Oh know oh know!
Gail: What what is it sweet heart?!
Lee: I can't find my glasses!
Gail shakes her head.
Gail: Sweet heart there resting on your forehead.
Lee reaches up and pulls them down on his face.
Lee: Thanks, What time is it?
Gail smiles and walks over to Lee.
Gail: One minute later then the last time you asked me. Now sweet heart
you really must try and relax. Tonight is going to be just fine I'm sure
of it. It's not as if this will be your only chance to get to know Julie.
She isn't going anywhere. Tonight is only the first step in getting to
know her that's all.
Lee: I know I know it's just that I want everything to go right.
Gail: And it probably will but even if it doesn't there is always next
time. Lord knows Karen and Scott didn't have an easy time of it. These
things take time and patients.
lee: Do you think she wants to get to know me?
Gail: She's coming isn't she? Really sweet heart you must calm down.
I'm sure she's just as nervous as you are.
Lee: I guess so. What time is it?
Gail sighs.
Gail: 6:49
Lee: I think I'm going to go change, I look way to stuffy in this gray
suite.
Gail: LEE!
Lee races upstairs and Gail just shakes her head.
Gail: Well at least he can't ask me what time it is from up there.
Just then Lee yells down.
Lee: Gail what time is it!
Gail groans.
Gail: I spoke to soon. Why don't you look at your watch!
Gail goes back into the kitchen to finish dinner.
A few minutes later the door bell rings. Gail goes to get the door
as Lee comes flying down the steps.
Lee: She's 4 minutes early!
Gail: I see that.
Lee and Gail open the door together.
Julie: Hi.
Lee: Hello
Gail: Please come in.
Julie steps in hesitantly.
Lee: Well you look nice tonight.
Julie: Thank you so do you.
They walk into the living room.
Julie: You have a beautiful home.
Gail: Why thank you.
Lee: Gail has done most of the decorating. Please sit down can I get
you something to drink?
Julie: What do you have?
Lee: Soda, water, juice, tea, pretty much everything but alcohol. Gail
and I don't drink.
Julie: I don't either I'll have some water.
Lee: I'll get it.
Gail stops Lee.
Gail: How about if I get the drinks and the two of you sit and talk.
Lee: Okay, I'll have.
Gail: Coke with line?
Lee smiles.
Lee: sounds good.
Gail leaves the room as Lee sits down next to Julie.
Julie: That's nice that you and Gail know each other so well.
Lee: Well that's what happens when you live with someone. I bet you
know Frank's habits pretty well.
Julie smiles.
Julie: He mostly likes to have a bear, unless he's on call then he
goes for root bear.
Lee: So Uhm how are you doing?
Julie: I'm doing pretty good. I have my wedding coming up pretty soon.
I have my little girl and my career witch is thriving. And after Monday
I will have moved on from a horrible chapter in my life.
lee looks sadly at his feet.
Lee: Julie I'm so sorry, if I'd only known about you.
Julie: Lee please don't blame yourself. Even if you had known that
I was your daughter that doesn't mean you would've known the rest. My own
Mother who lived under the same roof with us didn't know. So how could
you have been expected to.
Lee: That's very generous of you.
Julie: It's the truth.
Lee: Well I know you're my daughter now, I just don't know where to
proceed or how to proceed from that point.
Julie: Join the club. Karen says the best way is one step at a time.
Lee: That makes sense.
Gail brings in the drinks.
Lee: Thanks Gail
Julie: Thanks Gail
Gail: Well I'll go finish dinner while you talk.
Gail quickly leaves.
Julie: So what's the first step?
Lee: I suppose it's getting to know one another.
Julie: Okay, so who goes first?
Lee: Well I know a lot about you, I feel like I do anyway so Maybe
I should tell you about me first.
Julie: Sounds good.
Lee: Well the reason Gail and I don't drink is because we're both recovering
alcoholics. We've been sober for about 17 years now.
Julie: That's wonderful! You should be very proud of yourself. I know
through my training as a doctor and just through talking to people that
stopping when your an alcoholic is a very difficult thing. I don't drink
because I like being in control. I want to be present.
Lee: That's a good reason not to drink. I suppose being a doctor and
knowing what alcohol dose to a person helps you stand by that.
Julie: Yeah that and I hate the taste of beer.
They both laugh.
Lee: So did you always want to be a doctor?
Julie: Pretty much. When I was little I used to pretend my dolls were
the patents and I'd try and treat them. I don't think any of them went
with out at least one bandage. I loved the idea of helping people you know
making a difference. And I did want my father to be proud of me. I think
I thought if he got proud enough he would stop hurting me. But no such
luck.
Lee: I'm so sorry you had to go through that.
Julie: Well it's over now and I'm slowly getting past it. I guess I
should stop calling him my father huh.
Lee: Well that's your decision I don't want to rush you.
Julie: yeah but it's not as if he was a good one. But for some reason
I still love him.
Lee: I think that is a decision that you and only you can decide.
Julie smiles.
Julie: You sound like Frank.
Lee smiles.
Lee: Well thank you I'll take that as a very big complement.
Julie: So did you always want to be a lawyer?
Lee: Well I always loved helping people with there problems. And I
was always a good negotiator. If there was a dispute on the play ground
the kids came to me. If my siblings were fighting over something they came
to me. And I seemed to always take one side or the other and when I did
I'd run with it like nobody else. At least that's what my Dad who was a
lawyer to used to say. So I went to College and started studying it and
I fell in love with it.
Julie: Your father must have been very proud of you.
Lee: I think he was.
Julie: He never told you he was?
Lee: Mostly he's say things like you can do better then that can't
you? Why did so in so do better on this test then you didn't you try? He
wasn't exactly the voice of support.
Julie: That's awful!
Lee: I suppose but in away I think it made me the man I am today and
it helped me to remember to always give Scott my support.
Julie: Well I know Scott appreciates it.
Gail comes in.
Gail: Dinner is on.
Lee and Julie go into the dinning room. The group has a lovely time
chatting late into the night. Then Julie goes home.
Lee: I'll see you Monday!
Julie: I'll see you then. Thanks for a great evening.
Gail: Thanks so much for coming.
Julie leaves.
Gail: Well I'd say that went well.
Lee: I think it went very well.
Lee and Gail kiss. When Julie gets home Frank is waiting with open
arms he pulls her in and holds her tightly.
Julie: You always know just what I need don't you?
Frank: I certainly try to. So how did it go?
Julie: I think it went okay we learned some about each other and once
the initial nervousness wore off we had a great time.
Frank: That's great Julie it sounds like you're really building a family.
Julie: I'm trying to. So how was your evening?
Frank grins.
Frank: Well I think we have a future pro bowler on our hands.
Julie laughs.
Julie: How badly did she beat you?
Frank: Oh it was brutal.
They laugh.
Julie: Well maybe if you let me I can tend to those wounds.
Frank: Tend away my dear.
Julie wraps her arms around Franks shoulders and kisses him with a
long hot kiss that makes his toes curl. Frank swoops her up in his arms
and carries her to their bed. He lays her across it and starts kissing
her neck as she tears his shirt off of him. Frank begins working his way
down her blouse with his mouth planting sizzling kisses every inch of the
way. Julie rubs his stealth chest and shoulders with her hands as he pulls
her up to him. So their cloths are piled on the floor and they are intertwined
in the throws of hot passion. Frank running his hands over every inch of
her body and looking deep into her deep brown eyes. As she pulls him closer
and closer arching her back up off the ground and sliding her lips along
his neck and chest. Their hands clutch one another's as there fire explodes
sending bolts of passion filled electricity threw each others bodies. Both
unsure where they end and the other begin.
***********Monday Morning 9am the courthouse******
Julie and her loyal supporters are all gathered to hear the sentence.
Frank: So you ready?
Julie: I think so.
Joe: It will all be over by this after noon Julie. Soon that scum will
be locked away tight.
Karen: Julie you should be so proud of yourself. If my case against
Ray Conway had ever gone to trail I'm not sure I could have been as strong
as you've been.
Julie smiles.
Julie: Karen that's very nice of you to say but you'd have been just
fine. You are loads stronger then I am.
Karen: If I am it's only because of years of therapy.
Scott: Well it paid off then but Baldwins are a tough bread I think
you would have been fine regardless.
Joe: I agree Karen you are super strong.
Karen smiles and shakes her head.
Ellen: So any idea of what he might get?
Frank: Hopefully life with no parole.
Matt: He would certainly deserve that.
Mary: Mary I do hope that the judge is tough with the sentence.
Eve: Scott what do you think?
Scott: Well he has two first degree charges against him. The charge
of attempted Murder and the charge of aggravated sexual assault. First
degree crimes generally carry a minimum of a 15 year sentence. He also
if facing a second degree charge of Sexual assault. That generally carries
a 7 year or so sentence. Then he's got a fourth degree charge of battery
that carries around a one year sentence. So combined that's a good 38 years
in jail. And since he's in his 50's the odds are that he'll die in jail.
So it will be life in prison.
Scott sighs tensely.
Scott: Unless. . .
Julie: Unless what?!
Lee: Unless the judge decides to run the sentences all together. In
other words after 16 years he'd have served all his time. And with time
off for good behavior and parole well there is a chance he could be out
in 8 years.
Joe: WHAT! WHAT THE HELL KIND OF SYSTEM IS THIS! HE HAS NO WRITE TO
BE OUT THAT SOON!
Mary: Joe please keep your voice down!
Frank: 8 years! 8 YEARS! He could be out in 8 years! AFTER WHAT HE
DID TO JULIE!
Julie: Frank please It's okay.
Frank: No it isn't Julie no it isn't. That man stole your child hood.
He stole your innocence and your sense of safety. He has know right to
ever walk free!
Scott: And he might not, But the judge could do that.
Dara walks in.
Frank: Dara can you stop the judge from running the sentences together!
You can't let him do that you just can't. He could be out in 8 years according
to Lee. And that is totally unacceptable.
Dara smiles reassuringly.
Dara: It looks like I got here just in time. First off Devlin's crimes
are big enough that the odds are that the judge wouldn't dream of giving
him an extremely short sentence. You know judges are elected, and after
all the press this case has had the odds of him letting Devlin off easy
are very slim. I mean who is going to vote for a judge that lets off convicted
child molester's who have tried to kill their victim.
Julie: So you don't think that will happen?
Dara: Julie I'd be shocked if he did. Now just so you're prepared late
Friday Leopold petitioned the court for an appeal. Now before you get all
jumpy let me finish. It's a formality just like when we finished presenting
our case and Leopold asked for the charges to be dropped. Also he is claiming
that the jury was biased which he has no proof of so in all likely hood
the Judge will deny the motion. So are we all set.
Julie: I think so.
Julie reaches for Frank.
Julie: Frank?
Frank: I'm right here babe.
The judge comes in and everyone sits.
Judge: This court is now in session. First off Mr. Leopold petitioned
the court for an appeal on Friday. After careful consideration over the
weekend I have come to the conclusion that there are know grounds for one.
There for I'm denying the motion.
Julie's group breathes a sigh of relief.
Judge: Now on to the sentencing. I have spent all weekend going over
this case and fighting to keep my own feelings as a father separate from
my duty as a judge. Mr. Devlin the abuse of a child is a hideous event
but when it is committed by a parent it is beyond unthinkable. Your crimes
are filled with such blatant disregard for others rights, feelings and
well being it's horrid. And I feel that locking you away from society is
not only my obligation but my duty as a man sworn to protect the state
of New York.
Frank: I like this judge.
Julie giggles.
Judge: I'm there for sentencing you to the following. For attempted
murder in the first degree 15 years with out parole. For Aggravated Sexual
Assault 15 years with out parole. For Sexual Assault in the second degree
7 years with out parole. And for Battery in the fourth degree I sentence
you to 1 year no parole. These sentences will be served separately. So
in full you are here by sentenced to 38 years in the state penitentiary.
It is the hope of this court that the defendant will never be free again.
This court stands adjourned.
Joe: WE WON!
Karen: Congratulations Julie!
Mary: Well you see there good always wins.
Eve: This judge sure has my vote.
Julie and Frank are hugging and crying.
Frank: it's over Julie we won! I told you we would I promised you justice
would prevail and it did. He isn't getting away with this anymore.
Julie wipes her face.
Julie: Thanks to you my love.
Dara: Julie it was a pleasure to help you win this case.
Julie: Thank you for helping us Dara, thank you everyone.
Devlin is hauled off still yelling about his innocence.
The group starts out the door arm in arm when reporters charge at them.
Reporter: Julie how do you feel?
Julie: Relieved that it's over. Happy that justice has been served.
Tired and ready to get on with my life.
Reporter: How do you feel about Bennett Devlin?
Julie thinks for a minute.
Julie: I feel sorry for him. His life could have gone so many ways
that would have been better but he chose to through it away. Now if you'll
excuse me I have a life to get back to.
Frank and Joe maneuver her through the crowed and they head home.
Chapter 42
It is the morning of July 4, and it's Frank and Julie's wedding day.
Over the past month Julie has grown very close to her new family. In fact
Lee is giving her away today. This morning she's over at Lee and Gail's
where she spent the night. All of the Baldwins are there helping her get
ready. While Frank, and Joe get ready at the house. Karen and Gail are
helping Julie get ready.
Karen: Oh Julie this dress is pretty! You look great.
Gail: You really do sweet heart you just look magnificent.
Julie blushes.
Julie: Thanks, it took me forever to find this one but I found it.
Karen: Did you always know what the dress you got married in would
look like?
Julie thinks for a minute and smiles.
Julie: Not till last April. You see while I was working on Frank in
the O.R. I had this little vision it only lasted about a second or so but
it was very clear. I was standing in front of a mirror in a wedding dress.
So when Frank proposed I took the vision I'd had and found the dress.
Karen: Wow last April was one powerful month!
Gail: Well I'll say it was.
Julie: I know it sounds crazy and at fist I looked at other dresses
but none of them felt right. Then I remembered that vision and went looking
for the dress I'd been wearing in it. And like magic I found it.
Gail: Well if any couple deserves some magic it's you and Frank.
Julie smiles. Karen looks out the window.
Karen: Well it's a beautiful day for a wedding that's for sure. The
sky is pale blue, there is not a could in sight. The sun is shinning and
the birds are singing.
Gail: Lee listened to the weather report last night and it's supposed
to be 79 degrees with a slight breeze.
Julie: It really is the perfect day for the perfect wedding.
Karen: I think it's so romantic that you're getting married on the
beach.
Julie: I know, it was Franks idea. That's where we had our fist date,
and where he gave me my engagement ring. I remember Frank said on our first
date that he wanted us to be somewhere that we belonged. And I agree it
is the perfect spot. The two of us surrounded by are friends and family.
Out in all of natures beauty. It's just right.
Karen: That's so sweet.
Julie: So how about you an Joe? Any wedding plans there?
Karen smiles sheepishly.
Karen: Well actually I've made a decision, Joe and I have been together
for awhile now and we have told each other how much we love each other.
But Joe is having trouble dropping the other shoe. I think he thinks if
he proposed I'd say no. I guess he thinks I'm scared of marriage or something.
At any rate at the reception today, if it's okay with you Julie I mean
I don't want to take anything away from your day. But I'm planning on asking
Joe to marry me.
Gail: Oh Karen that's just wonderful!
Julie: Karen that's fantastic! Of course I don't mind. You should do
it! Besides but better place to get engaged then at a wedding.
Karen: You don't think it will make him uncomfortable.
Julie: Karen you proposing to Joe would be a dream come true for him
I assure you. He'll love it! What man wouldn't love being proposed to by
the women of his dreams.
Karen: You right oh now I'm getting all nervous. Well that will have
to wait you're the one we have to fuss over now.
Gail: Are you nervous sweet heart?
Julie thinks.
Julie: About marrying Frank? No I've never been so sure of anything
in my life. Getting to Marry Frank is an honor, a privilege, and a blessing.
The only thing I'm nervous about is whether or not I can be the wife he
deserves. Frank is perfect in everyway. And he deserves no less then a
perfect women as his wife. That's a tall order to fill.
Karen: Julie in Franks eyes you are perfect. You're perfect because
he loves you.
Gail: If two people love each other then they are good enough for each
other.
Julie smiles.
Julie: Thanks.
There is a knock on the door.
Gail: Who is it?
Amber Rose: Me
Serena: Me.
Julie, Karen, and Gail chuckle.
Julie: Come in me and me.
Amber Rose and Serena come running in.
Amber Rose: Wow Mommy you look like a fairy princess!
Julie: Well thank you sweetie. I certainly feel like on getting to
marry Frank and all.
Serena: Is Frank a prince?
Julie: Well in a way yes. He's my prince charming.
Serena: Cool
Karen: Well we'd better go over the list. Do you have something Blue?
Julie blushes.
Julie: My underpants.
Karen smiles.
Karen: That will work. Do you have something new?
Julie: The dress.
Karen: How about something barrowed?
Julie: Gail's pearl earrings. Thanks again for lending them to me.
Gail: Oh I was happy to, they look great on you.
Karen: Okay how about something old?
Just then Eve pops her head in the door.
Eve: Sorry to interrupt but. . Oh Julie you look incredible!
Julie: Thanks, what's up?
Eve: Mary is here to see you.
Mary walks in.
Julie: What a nice surprise! Mary I didn't expect to see you here!
Mary: Well I wanted to give you something. Mary goes into her purse
and pulls out a red velvet bag. Then she gently opens it and hands Julie
a very old pearl neckless.
Julie: Oh Mary it's beautiful!
Mary: Well on the day I got married my mother gave them to me. As her
mother had given them to her on her wedding day. I swore that I'd give
them to my daughter on her wedding day. But then I had only boys. Julie
I've come to think of you as my own, I love you very much and am thrilled
that today you're becoming part of my family. So since you're the closest
thing I've ever had to a daughter I'd like you to have them. And maybe
one day when Amber Rose gets married you'll give them to her.
Julie is crying.
Julie: Oh Mary I don't know what to say. I'm honored thank you so very
very much. I love you to, you have been like a mother to me. And I'd be
honored to have this necklace and pass it on to Amber Rose. Thank you so
much.
Julie and Mary hug.
Mary: You're welcome Julie.
Julie puts on the pearls and everyone admires them.
Mary: Well I'd better get going. The boys are expecting me. We're all
going over to the beach together.
Amber Rose: Mom at the reception can Serena and I build sand castles?
They all laugh.
Julie: We'll see honey we'll see.
Julie: Thanks again Mary.
Mary: Oh you're very welcome.
Mary leaves.
Karen: Well we can mark something old off the list two. I think were
just about ready!
Julie: Well I'm going to have to redo my eye makeup that's for sure.
Karen and Gail laugh.
Karen: Here I'll help you.
Over at the Scanlons Frank is excitedly getting ready. Joe comes in
to see how he's doing.
Joe: So are you ready?
Frank smiles.
Frank: I've been ready for this for a long long time. Today I marry
my dream girl. Today is the best day of my entire life. Joe you know how
you and Ma have always said things happen for a reason?
Joe: Yeah.
Frank: Well I used to think that things just happen. But now I realize
they really do happen for a reason. Think about it, if I had been able
to play pro ball. Or if I had become a Doctor I might not be living in
Port Charles. Which means Julie and I might not have met. And I'll tell
you of all my dreams she is the one I cherish the most. You know what Joe,
sometimes God's greatest gifts are unanswered prayers. I used to pray for
a football career, of pray that I'd get to be a doctor, But if those things
had happened I might not have Julie. Joe I'm happier then I've ever been.
Joe: Well it sounds like you're thinking very philosophically today.
Frank: It's hard not when you're marrying an angel.
Joe: I'm glad you decided not to move out.
Frank: Well Julie loves the family atmosphere around here, and I love
this place. I think for us this is our dream house.
Joe: I'm glad I mean I'd really have missed you.
Frank smiles.
Frank: Joe no matter where I live I will always be your brother and
I will always love you and be here for you. My getting married doesn't
take away from our bond. You are one of the most important people in my
life. You always have been and you always will be.
Joe smiles.
Joe: I know but it's nice to here.
Frank and Joe hug.
Mary calls from down stairs.
Mary: You boys about ready?
Joe: Hey Mom we'll be right down! All set to go?
Frank: I think so. Oh you have the guitar don't you?
Joe: yep it's down stairs all tuned and ready to go.
Frank: Good, I hope she likes this.
Joe: Frank are you kidding me Julie is going to love it! Karen says
it's every woman's dream to be serenaded. You've got the song memorized
right?
Frank: Yep it's all ready to go, I've been practicing every chance
I've gotten. You don't think she's suspects anything do you?
Joe: No I doubt it.
Mary: Frank, Joe you guys need to hurry up!
Joe: Well this is it!
Frank smiles.
Frank: Lets get me to the alter!
Frank and Joe race down stairs.
Mary: Oh now you two look just incredible. Oh I can't believe my Frankie
is getting married.
Frank: Thanks Ma but I'm sure I don't look half as good as Julie dose.
Joe: Well that's because when it comes to what girls wear there is
so much more to choose from! You should see Karen's closet!
Frank laughs
Frank: Well actually Julie could wear a paper bag and still out shine
everyone in the room. She is God's most perfect creation.
Mary straitens Franks bow tie.
Mary: I'm just so glad you've found someone who can make you this happy.
Well be better go.
Frank: Joe the guitar, you have it?
Joe holds it up.
Joe: Right here.
Mary: Why are you bringing Joe's guitar?
Frank: You'll just have to wait and see.
Mary: Keeping secrets from me typical!
Frank and Joe laugh.
Joe: Ah come on Ma if we told you everything you wouldn't have any
fun.
Frank: Besides you're going to find out about this. Just not now.
The group happily leaves for the beach.
Back at Lee and Gail's they're just about ready to go.
Scott, Serena, Amber Rose, Gail, Lee, Eve, and Karen all stand at the
bottom of the steps as Julie comes down in her pure white dress.
Lee: Words fail, I can't believe this incredible vision in front of
me is my daughter and that she's getting married.
Julie smiles and hugs Lee.
Julie: Thank you.
Scott: Wow you are breath taking. You better make sure Frank knows
how lucky he is?
Julie smiles.
Julie: I'm the lucky one.
Gail: Well Julie you do look magnificent.
Karen: Well as the maid of honor I say it's time to go! Are you ready?
Julie smiles.
Julie: It seems like I've been ready to marry Frank for ever, lets
get me to the alter!
Soon after everyone gathers at the beach. The chairs are all facing
out towards the ocean and the alter with all of it's flowers is nearly
in it. After all the guest are seated and the priest has arrived Frank
and Joe take their spots up at the alter and the wedding march begins.
First Dara, then Eve, then, made of honor Karen, and then the two flower
girls Amber Rose and Serena. Everyone stand up and Lee and Julie walk down
the aisle.
Priest: Please be seated. Who gives this women to be married to this
man?
Lee: Her mother and I do.
Lee and Julie hug, then Lee hands Julie's hand to Frank who is beaming
ear to ear. Lee goes and sits with Gail. Gail whispers to Lee.
Gail: Has anyone heard from Nicole?
Lee: I talked to her last week and she said that she didn't feel comfortable
coming. She's at a spa in France. I'm so glad Julie has you now.
Gail smiles.
Gail: Julie has a lot now. And it's just as well Julie doesn't need
to be reminded of her past not today.
Julie hands her flowers to Karen and facing Frank they hold hands.
Priest: Ladies and Gentleman we are gathered here today in the presence
of God to join this women and this man in wholly matrimony. Marriage is
a sacred thing it should not be entered into lightly or unadvisedly. But
seriously and with full knowledge. Frank please put the ring on Julie's
finger and repeat after me.
Joe hands Frank the ring with a smile.
Priest: I Francis Xavier Scanlon Jr. take you Julie Ann Baldwin to
be my lawfully wedded wife.
Frank: I Francis Xavier Scanlon Jr. take you Julie Ann Baldwin to be
my lawfully wedded wife.
Lee wipes his face.
Lee: Did you know that was coming?
Gail: No but with Frank involved I can't say I'm surprised.
Priest: To have and to for richer for poorer for better or worse through
sickness and in health forsaking all others as long as we both shall live.
With this ring I thee wed.
Frank: To have and to hold to love and to cherish for richer for poorer
for better or worse through sickness and in health for saking all others
as long as we both shall live. With this ring I thee wed.
Karen hands Julie the ring and she puts it on Franks finger. And with
out even being prompted begins.
Julie: I Julie Ann Baldwin take you Francis Xavier Scanlon to be my
lawfully wedded husband for richer for poorer for better or worse through
sickness and in health forsaking all others as long as we both shall live.
With this ring I thee wed.
Priest: Frank wanted to express his love to Julie in a song. He hands
Frank a microphone.
Frank: I wanted to treat Julie to a song on this our wedding day. So
with my brothers help since he plays the guitar and I don't this is my
present and most holy vow to Julie.
Joe picks up the guitar and begins to play. Frank goes down on one
knee still holding one of Julie's hands begins singing.
All I am, all I'll be
everything in this world
All that I'll ever need
Is in your eyes shinning at me
When you smile I can feel all my passions unfolding. Your hand brushes
mine
And a thousand sensations seduce me cause I
I do cherish you for the rest of my life
You don't have to think twice. I will
Love you still from the depths of my soul
It's beyond my control I've waited so long
To say this to you. If your asking do I love you
This much I do. In my world before you I lived
Out side my emotions didn't know where I was going
Till that day I found you now you opened my life
To a new paradise. In a world torn by change
Still with all my heart till my dying day.
I do cherish you for the rest of my life
You don't have to think twice.
I will love you still from the depths of my soul
It's beyond my control
I've waited so long to say this to you.
If you're asking do I love you this much.
Yes I do I do If you're asking do I love you
This much Baby I do. I do cherish you
From the depths of my soul it's beyond my control
I've waited so long to say this to you.
If you're asking do I love you this much.
Julie I do.
When Frank finishes there is not a dry eye in the place. Least of all
Julie's.
Julie: Oh Frank that was so beautiful! I love you to oh my gosh, I
don't know what to say. Oh Frank. She hugs him still crying. Frank pulls
out a tissue and starts drying Julie's eyes.
Julie: Oh why did I even bother wearing Eye makeup.
Everyone laughs.
Priest: Julie would now like to say a few words.
Julie: Well I doubt I can top Frank but here it goes. Frank when I
look at you I see all that's right in the world. I see love, goodness,
honesty, decency, loyalty, strength, generosity, friendship, trust and
about a million and one other things that there is not nearly enough of
in this world. I look at you and I know that you are my true soul mate.
For you are not just the man I choose as my partner in life you are my
best friend, my hero, my protector, my love, my everything. And today I'm
honored to pledge my undying love and devotion unto you.
Priest: Now that Frank and Julie have joined there love together by
the giving and receiving of rings and the exchange of vows. By the powers
invested in me I now pronounce you man and wife you may kiss the bride.
Frank takes Julie in his arms and kisses her passionately.
The crowd cheers as the happy couple goes back down the aisle. At the
reception everyone is having a blast. Karen and Joe are watching Frank
and Julie dance.
Karen: They're a great couple aren't they?
Joe: I don't think I've ever seen two people more right for each other.
She's fire where he's ice, and vice versa on picks up where the other leaves
off.
Karen: Well I think I know another couple whose very right for each
other.
Joe: Who?
Karen smiles.
Karen: Us.
Joe turns and kisses her.
Joe: Well I can't argue with that.
Karen: Joe I love you so much, I can't even put it into words. You
are everything to me. From my best Friend to my true love and everything
in between. And I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Joe will
you marry me?
Joe is naturally taken aback by this he stairs in disbelief for a minute
not sure if he heard right.
Joe: What?
Karen: Will you marry me, I want us to be together forever Joe. I know
life is uncertain but that's even more reason to jump at true love when
you see it. So will you marry me?
Joe: YES YES YES!
Joe picks Karen up off the ground and twirls her around. Everyone looks
over at them.
Joe: Karen and I are getting married!
Everyone rushes over with congratulations.
Frank: Joe that's great! I didn't know you were going to propose.
Joe: I didn't!
Julie: See Karen I told you he'd be happy about you popping the question.
This is so great!
Frank: Waite she proposed?
Joe: Julie you knew?
Julie: Oh like Frank didn't talk to you before he proposed.
Everyone laughs.
Scott: Congratulations. Joe you better take good care of my little
girl.
Joe: I will I promise.
Mary: Both my boys getting married. Joe I'm so happy for you. Welcome
to the family Karen.
Karen: Thank you.
Matt: Congratulations you two, I can't say I'm surprised though.
Ellen: Yeah this is about as big a surprise Frank and Julie getting
engaged.
Frank: Hey I won the pool!
Everyone laughs.
Joe: So my what was your month.
Mary blushes.
Mary: September.
Everyone laughs.
Karen: So Matt have you and Ellen decided on a date.
Matt: We're thinking of a December wedding.
Karen: Oh that would be pretty.
Joe: Well enough about other weddings we still have to finish this
one. And right now it's time for me to make a toast.
Everyone gets a glass.
Joe: I look around here today and see all of this love and happiness.
And I realize how lucky we all really are. Things could be so different,
I look at Frank and Julie. And I see the answer to why things are this
good. I look at them and I know that When Love Is In Charge anything is
possible. To Frank and Julie may all of us be as lucky.
Everyone clinks there glasses.
THE END
