Chapter 11
As she heard the loud thump, Elizabeth blinked a few times, confused...where was she? And why did her head ache so terribly? Closing her eyes again, she laid back down. That was much better.
From the ground, Jason watched in pure astonishment as the girl completely ignored him, and laid back down as if about to go back to sleep. "Oh no you don't!" Getting quickly to his feet, he leaned back over her and dragged her up by her arms. "What the hell are you doing here?"
Wincing at the harsh sound of his voice, Elizabeth opened her eyes a fraction, and mumbled, "Oh please don't yell..."
"Don't yell?!" Jason shouted at the girl in incredulity, trying to ignore the low neckline of her chemise. "What the hell are you doing half naked in my room? In my bed?!"
At his words, Elizabeth's eyes opened wide. Did he just say his bed! But more importantly, did he say naked! She quickly glanced down at herself, forgetting the pounding in her head for a moment. "Oh dear Lord!" she screamed, pushing his hands away from her arms. Grabbing for the sheets, she attempted to cover herself.
Jason finally had the girl's full attention. Folding his arms across his chest, he asked impatiently, "Well? What are you doing here, Miss Webber?"
As her face grew bright red, Elizabeth tried furiously to remember...What had happened? Wait...she could see flashes of scenes...her dancing with Luke, yes...and then dancing with a number of strange men? Then there was Burt, she had seen him and Sonny and his wife...and Francis and that piano. Oh heavens...she sang...and the fight! Glancing around the room, her eyes spotted the flask. Carly...she had told her to drink that, didn't she? But why? And why had Carly left her in his room?
After a moment of watching the girl nibble nervously on her lower lip, Jason asked, "Are you going to answer me?"
"I-I..." Elizabeth couldn't quite find the words to describe all that had happened.
Before Elizabeth could finish her reply, Carly came in through the door saying, "Sorry for takin' so long, but Johnny gave me some more coffee for ya. And well...I tried to clean this thin' and put some violet water on it, but 'fraid it'll still smell a little of whiskey, honey..." She suddenly stopped and exclaimed in surprise, "Oh, Jase, you're back!"
Jason's eyes wandered down to the peach gown, and then up to Carly's surprised face. "What is going on here, Carly?" he asked in a deceptively calm voice.
Carly glanced over at the girl in the bed, who looked frightened to death. "Um...the gal here came to pay her hog a visit and got into some mischief...well anyway, some whiskey was spilled on her dress, and I was tryin' to give it a quick cleanin'...nothin' to worry 'bout Jase. We'll be outta here in a-"
By this time, Jason had stopped listening to Carly's ramblings and turned to Elizabeth, "You came over here to see the pig?" Without waiting for the girl to reply, he turned back to Carly and demanded, "Why wasn't she taken back home?"
Carly sighed, "'Fraid the gal's been imbibing in a bit of oh-be-joyful or something, 'cause she sure was actin' mighty peculiar, singing and such...Anyway, Sonny didn't want to send her back to that dance like that and have them old biddies sayin' we plied the girl with drink! So we've been tryin' to sober her up first..."
Was that why she was behaving so strangely? Once again Jason turned his blue gaze toward the girl. "You've been taking in spirits?!"
In reply Elizabeth moaned slightly. Each time he yelled at her, the hammering in her head doubled. Grabbing her head with one hand, she said apprehensively, "I-I just don't understand...I've never touched spirits. Grams would have my head on a chopping block!" And at this point, her grandmother could chop off her head with her blessing if it would only take away the pounding!
Carly laughed, "Well, honey, you've been touchin' some tonight." Seeing that Jason was about to say something else, Carly took pity on the girl and said, "Why don't ya change into your dress, honey and I'll get Francis to take ya back to that dance? Lord knows they're probably out searchin' for ya by now."
After handing the girl the dress, Carly grabbed Jason by the arm, and dragged him out of the room.
As Carly closed the door firmly behind them, Jason glanced down the hall suspiciously. He thought he had heard something...but the long hallway was empty. It was probably only some cowboy and one of Carly's girls enjoying themselves. Dismissing the sound, he turned a questioning glare toward Carly.
But before Jason could direct any questions her way, Carly scolded, "Can't ya see the girl's upset as it is Jase? She's likely never drank a thing before and she must feel like she's been run over by a herd of buffalo!"
If the girl was suffering, she wasn't the only one. The last few days of worry over Rebecca and now this girl, were catching up to him, giving him a raging headache. Taking a deep breath, he finally said wearily, "Carly, tell me what happened from the beginning."
Carly explained everything she had witnessed since she had seen the girl on the dance floor. By the end, Jason's headache had reach epic proportions... "You're telling me she was singin' and that started that brawl down there? How the hell is it a girl that small can continually cause more trouble than any man I've ever met?"
"I know. They could've won the war a great deal faster, if she'd been fightin'." Carly laughed. "But I like her, Jase." She saw the look of incredulity on his face and laughed harder, "I do. She's a hoot. I couldn't have asked for a better shindig, and she seems a rather sweet li'le thin'. When Sonny and the boys came back with those wild stories 'bout her, I was mighty curious, but I never thought I'd like someone related to that Hardy woman. But I do like her."
Jason groaned in disbelief. "Carly!"
"And ya be nice to her, Jase, ya hear. Lord that scowl on your face would scare a grown man let alone that li'le one. Though she didn't seem a bit fearful earlier this ev'ning. But then again the effects of the spirits must be wearin' off..."
Jason sighed running a hand over his rough jaw line. "Alright...you like her...Sonny, Francis and Johnny...hell you all like her, but I just want her away from this place. The longer she's here, the more trouble she's going to get in."
Carly nodded, "I know. I-"
At that moment Elizabeth, once again properly dressed in peach and with her hair somewhat neatly tied back by a ribbon, opened the door and stepped hesitantly out of the room. She looked apprehensively at Carly, careful to avoid Jason's gaze. "I think I should go back to the dance now..."
Carly looked at Jason, and then nodded. "Sure honey, just let me get Francis. Jase, ya escort her to the back, and I'll have Francis meet her there."
Jason shook his head, "No. I'll take her back to the social." Carly's face must've shown her surprise, because he continued, "No need to interrupt Francis from one of his numbers and arising folk's suspicions."
"Well...alright. I'll tell Sonny and the boys you're escortin' the girl." Carly glanced over to the very quiet Elizabeth and said kindly, "'Twas nice seein' ya again, honey. Ya sure do know how to liven up an ev'ning!"
Elizabeth blushed before replying, "Thank you, Mrs. Corinthos."
Carly laughed, "It's Carly honey...'sides ya called my husband by his first name so you'd better call me by mine or I'll be mighty jealous! 'Night." With that she was gone in a blaze of purple down the hallway and stairs.
An awkward silence followed her departure. Finally, Jason said abruptly, "We'd should get goin'," and turning around he made his way toward the backstairs.
As the two headed down the stairs, a figure walked out of one of the rooms and swore. It seemed the plans for the evening had just changed because of that troublesome girl...Dark eyes glanced toward Jason's door and narrowed. Or perhaps not...
With her hand rubbing her aching temples, Elizabeth followed Jason's tall, lean form down the narrow stairs. Before leaving Jason's room, she had glanced at the clock on the table and it had indicated it was just past midnight. It had been likely almost three hours since she left the dance. Her grandmother and sister must have spotted her absence by now. How was she going to explain what happened, when she didn't even know? What had possessed her? Carly had said she had imbibed spirits...but that was simply ridiculous! She hadn't even drank anything but that punch!
They had made their way outside into the cool night air, which along with that second flask of coffee, helped to clear Elizabeth's head. Jason waited until the girl was beside him, before continuing around the building onto the main street. He kept a careful eye out for anyone that might take notice of them, but no one was about. It was strange how the streets were so empty.
In tense silence, they made their way toward the town hall. When they finally arrived at the entrance, Jason asked, "Can you make it the rest of the way on your own?" When she nodded, he bid her a quick, "'Night Miss Webber."
"Goodnight," Elizabeth said quietly, grateful that their uncomfortable time together was at an end. She turned and made her way into the building. To her surprise, the place was almost completely empty! Where was everyone? Turning to a young man who was sweeping the floor, she asked, "Where is everyone?"
The man tilted back his hat and stared at her, chuckling. "They've all gone home, miss!"
"Gone home?!" Usually no one left 'til past one at the earliest. This social was one of the biggest of the year, and often went almost 'til dawn.
"Yes. Was the strangest thin'. First all them ladies were ragin' 'bout all the men folk leavin', and the next moment, they were laughin', dancin' and enjoyin' the food and refreshments! Then they were screamin' at each other and making a ruckus. Why a number of them were goin' at it."
Elizabeth blinked, "What?!"
The man smiled, "If I didn't know better, I'd think they had some..." He held up his hand and tilted back his head as if taking a swig of whiskey, "If ya know what I mean? So the sheriff told 'em all to go home."
Elizabeth couldn't believe it! Not only had she appeared half seas over but so had the whole town! But it made no sense...the only thing she and the ladies drank was that...punch! Oh heavens! Could someone have put something in it? It was the only explanation.
Elizabeth's eyes widened as another thought came to her. Somehow her grandmother and sister had forgotten about her and left! But why was there no one out looking for her? The streets had been empty just moments ago! And now she was stranded in town! What should she do?
She could go to one of the people she knew in town like Mrs. Collins or the Jones, but they'd have questions as to how she was left behind! Perhaps she could walk home...but it would take her hours and it was very dark out there, even with the moonlight...Oh no! There was only one thing she could think of...but she wondered whether walking in the dark would be preferable...
Not giving herself any more time to fret over the matter, she ran out of the building and flew down the street after the lone figure making his way toward the saloon. "Mr. Morgan! Please wait!"
With a groan, Jason turned around to find the girl running toward him. He should have known it wouldn't be that easy to be rid of her. "What?"
Panting to catch her breath, Elizabeth said, "I'm sorry. I wouldn't ask you...if there was another way...but everyone's departed from the dance." She took a deep breath, "It seems all the ladies were acting mighty peculiar tonight...and my grandmother and sister must have left without me..."
Jason had a suspicion of what it was the girl couldn't seem to get out. "And you need someone to take you back to your farm?"
Looking down at his black leather boots, she nodded. "I'm sorry to bother you, but I don't know any other way to avoid...questions."
He could imagine what kind of questions her family would have for her. Well, it looked like he was going for another ride this night. Jason nodded. "Alright, let's get my horse."
Elizabeth let out a small sigh of relief as she followed him once again to the back of the saloon. She waited while he saddled his horse and guided it out of the small stable.
They walked with the horse to the main street and then Jason lifted her onto the saddle, before mounting himself. While she had ridden on horseback before on the Spencer farm, Elizabeth felt very strange riding with a man so close in proximity behind her. His body heat was searing her back, and as he reached for the reins, she felt the heat travel up to her face. Oh heavens!
Jason shifted uncomfortably in the saddle trying to keep his distance from the girl, but it was impossible. He was so close to her he could smell the strange blend of violets and whiskey coming from her. Lord...if her grandmother got a whiff of that, she'd know for sure the girl had been at the saloon! But for some reason, he had the urge to lean in closer to inhale more of the aroma. What the hell was wrong with him? Obviously the lack of sleep was getting to him.
At a slow trot, they rode in uncomfortable silence out of the town, and down the dirt road. Jason was usually a man of silence but he found as this one stretched out, it only increased his awareness of the tiny frame pressed up against him. Recalling their meeting of the previous morning, he asked gruffly, "How's Luke Spencer's daughter?"
Already tense, Elizabeth jumped a little as she felt the unexpected rumbling of his voice through her body. She swallowed and answered quietly, "Lulu's fine...she's just not used to having people yelling around her...she's rather doted on that farm of hers." Elizabeth smiled as she thought of how all the farmhands would bring the little girl little wooden carvings they made, or the wild flowers they picked.
"I shouldn't have yelled in front of her," Jason muttered.
After a moment of thought, Elizabeth suggested, "Well...it is rather hard to control one's temper when one is agitated. And you were..." Elizabeth paused wondering if she should go on. But look at all the things she had already done this night. Surely one simple observation wouldn't hurt, "...worried about your daughter."
Jason stiffened. He couldn't talk about Rebecca...
In the ensuing silence, Elizabeth felt uneasy. She should have kept her mouth closed as usual, but this night the unusual seemed to be the norm. Now it was Elizabeth who was unable to stand the uncomfortable silence. So with eyes focused on the large hands holding the reins, she began to chatter nervously, "You know...I do believe Mrs. Cor-Carly was right...I may have imbibed some spirits tonight. From what that hand in the hall told me, everyone at the dance must have...that's why they went home early. Apparently the ladies were...um...arguing...and making a fuss." As the man behind her remained silent, Elizabeth continued awkwardly, "I think it was something in the punch as that was the only thing I drank all evening."
Remembering another time and another place, Jason smiled slightly, "It was likely some younin's prank..."
"I cannot believe how strong spirits are...no wonder they warn you about them..." Elizabeth continued softly. It was almost easy talking to him like this, without having to look at his hard face and those penetrating eyes... "And I can't imagine what Grams must've been like..." As the image of a tipsy Grams popped into her mind, Elizabeth started to giggle, "Oh dear! I hope they never find out who did this, or Grams will have their heads!"
At the sound of the girl's mirth, Jason stared down at the top of her head. They had now met a number of times, but he couldn't remember ever hearing her laugh before. Then again, the situations he had found her in were hardly laughing matters. But he found he liked the cheerful sound.
"And...oh no!" Elizabeth could not believe she had completely forgotten about Sarah and Lucky for almost three hours! Their whole evening must have been ruined. Poor Lucky...and poor Sarah. But as she thought of how her sister had gone on and on about this evening, Elizabeth couldn't help but feel slightly, just slightly mind you, happy that the evening was a disaster. "Oh that's not very nice..." Elizabeth admonished herself.
Confused by her words, Jason asked, "What?" Did she just say he wasn't nice? Hadn't she called him nice the other day?
"Oh! I'm sorry...I was speaking to myself, Mr. Morgan..."
Shaking his head at his inability to follow her conversation, Jason let her strange chattering go on uninterrupted. But then he began wondering why she kept addressing him so formally when she was willing to call Sonny and Carly by their given names...
A good half an hour had passed before the two riders approached the farm, and Jason dismounted. With hand on her waist, Jason helped Elizabeth to the ground. As soon as she was standing on her own two feet, Elizabeth eyes swept the farm. She could make out the buggy by the barn. Her grandmother and sister were home and as the lights in the house were dark, she deduced they must be asleep. She again wondered how they could have completely forgotten about her.
Feeling Jason's eyes on her, Elizabeth said softly, "Thank you, sir." She kept her eyes down, still afraid to look at him. It was so much easier speaking when she didn't have to face him.
Noticing her uneasiness, Jason was surprised to discover that all the anger in him from earlier that night had now disappeared. He felt a little guilty about being so harsh with the girl when she had been the victim of a jest. And yet, how was it, she was the only one to find her way into his room? Well, as long as she got home without incident, that was all that mattered. Jason replied briefly, "You're welcome, Miss Webber."
While staring straight ahead at the farmhouse, Elizabeth said shyly, "You don't need to call me Miss Webber, sir. Elizabeth's fine."
Jason was about to reply, but then a thought struck him, and he asked, "How are you going to sneak into the house without being seen?"
Elizabeth's eyes widened. How was she going to get into the house? She was silent for a moment, giving the matter some thought, and then answered, "I'll climb up to the banister. It's not too high up and my window's always open." Just the thought of it made her palms sweaty, but there was no other way.
"No."
At the harsh word, Elizabeth looked up in surprise. "What?"
Jason shook his head. "You can't climb up to your window that way. It's too dangerous."
"But it's the only way..."
Jason asked, "Is there a ladder around here?"
Elizabeth nodded. "Yes, by the barn."
"Show me where it is."
Hesitantly, Elizabeth turned around and led him down the field toward the side of the barn where the ladder leaned against the wall. Grabbing the ladder near the middle, Jason whispered, "Now show me where your window is."
Without thinking, Elizabeth took the head of the ladder with both her hands to help him out, and directed them towards the east side of the house. "There, that window to the left."
Jason leaned the ladder underneath the window, and instructed, "You climb up. I'll hold onto the base to steady it."
Elizabeth looked at her window, which now seemed such a long way up. Oh dear! She was never going to be able to do this...
Jason saw her eyes widen with fear. He said firmly, "You can do this, Miss--" he paused and then finished softly, "Elizabeth."
At the sound of her given name in the deep timbre of his voice for the very first time, Elizabeth's astonished eyes turned to see him looking down at her intently. His eyes were so fierce with determination...she didn't think there was anything he'd be afraid of.
Taking a deep breath, she told herself she could do this...and placed a foot tentatively on the wooden ladder. One by one she took the steps slowly, without looking down, until she was at her window. Pulling herself through the opening, she let out a sigh of relief.
On the ground, Jason was letting out his own held breath. He pulled the ladder down, and was about to walk back to the barn, when he heard her whisper, "Good night, Mr.-" She paused a moment, considering calling him by his given name, but she found her unprecedented daring for the night had ended, "...Morgan...Thank you again."
With his hand on the rim of his hat, he acknowledged her, "'Night." And then he was gone.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~
An half an hour later, Jason had just ridden back into town, when he noticed a number of riders with torches gathered by the saloon entrance. A voice shouted out, "No need to go in, Sheriff, Morgan's out here!"
At the shout, guns and shotguns were immediately aimed directly at Jason.
"Get down, Morgan!" Mac ordered as he made his way to stand in front of Jason's horse.
Jason stayed where he was, and asked emotionlessly, "What's this about, Sheriff?"
"You know damn well what this is about. I won't be sayin' it again. Get off that horse." When Jason still made no move, a shot rang out, and Jason's horse bucked slightly. But through his skill with the reins, Jason easily kept the animal under control.
A crowd from the saloon came running out to see what all the commotion was about. Sonny, Carly , Francis and Johnny were among them.
Taking in the scene, Sonny asked angrily, "What the hell is goin' on here, Sheriff?"
As Mac's eyes swept over the number of men at Sonny's side, he warned, "Stay out of this, Corinthos. I just want Morgan."
Stepping right in front of Mac, Carly declared angrily, "Well, ya ain't gettin' him without goin' through us!"
"If need be, ma'am." Mac said coldly, "But I don't think you'd be wanting to put your life on the line for a cold blooded killer."
"What?!" Johnny and Francis shouted in consternation.
Mac turned his eyes back to Jason and nodded. "Yep. You didn't think they'd find him so soon did you?"
Jason still had no idea what Mac was talking about. "Find who?"
Mac laughed, "You know...but if you want me to spell it out for you. Edward Quartermaine. He died from a gunshot wound to the heart 'bout half an hour ago in the arms of his wife at their ranch."
Exclamations and shouts of astonishment and horror ran through the gathered crowd.
"And," Mac continued, "He named his murderer...You willing to guess whose name he said, Morgan?"
Blue eyes glittering in the red glow of the lights of the torches, Jason didn't answer.
"It was yours, Morgan. Even your grandmother witnessed it. So now do you have anything to say?"
Still Jason didn't answer.
"Then get off your horse and hand over your gun. This time I'm taking you to jail and no one is stopping me." Mac pushed his way past Carly to walk closer to Jason.
But as ornery as ever, Carly simply stepped in front of Mac once again. She shouted angrily, "You callin' that proof, sheriff? So he said Jase's name? What does that prove?"
"That ma'am, combined with the fact he was seen at the fair threatening Edward Quartermaine's life is evidence. I don't know why they'd be fighting over AJ Quartermaine's daughter, but there's plenty of witnesses to the event. Besides there seems to be a longstanding feud between the two men...So, Mrs. Corinthos, we've got plenty of evidence."
Carly shook her head, "That don't mean a thin'! There's plenty of folks with reasons for wantin' Edward Quartermaine dead 'sides Jase. How do ya know Jase was even anywhere near wherever the old man was killed? And what 'bout the gun?"
"We found the gun out back by the ranch where the shooting must have taken place." Then looking up at Jason, Mac asked, "Where have you been for the past two hours, Morgan?"
Jason answered curtly, "Riding."
"Anyone go with you?"
Without hesitation, Jason gave a small shake of his head.
Mac turned triumphant eyes toward Carly. "Well, I'm afraid, ma'am your friend is goin' on trial for the murder of Edward Quartermaine. Get him down boys."
As he saw Carly about to pounce on the sheriff and Sonny and his men about to draw their guns, Jason said calmly, "No, I'll go peacefully. Get Ned for me in the morning, Sonny."
And then as her husband's arm came around her shoulder in comfort, Carly watched in horror as Jason dismounted from his horse on his own and was taken away to the jail.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~
As she heard the loud thump, Elizabeth blinked a few times, confused...where was she? And why did her head ache so terribly? Closing her eyes again, she laid back down. That was much better.
From the ground, Jason watched in pure astonishment as the girl completely ignored him, and laid back down as if about to go back to sleep. "Oh no you don't!" Getting quickly to his feet, he leaned back over her and dragged her up by her arms. "What the hell are you doing here?"
Wincing at the harsh sound of his voice, Elizabeth opened her eyes a fraction, and mumbled, "Oh please don't yell..."
"Don't yell?!" Jason shouted at the girl in incredulity, trying to ignore the low neckline of her chemise. "What the hell are you doing half naked in my room? In my bed?!"
At his words, Elizabeth's eyes opened wide. Did he just say his bed! But more importantly, did he say naked! She quickly glanced down at herself, forgetting the pounding in her head for a moment. "Oh dear Lord!" she screamed, pushing his hands away from her arms. Grabbing for the sheets, she attempted to cover herself.
Jason finally had the girl's full attention. Folding his arms across his chest, he asked impatiently, "Well? What are you doing here, Miss Webber?"
As her face grew bright red, Elizabeth tried furiously to remember...What had happened? Wait...she could see flashes of scenes...her dancing with Luke, yes...and then dancing with a number of strange men? Then there was Burt, she had seen him and Sonny and his wife...and Francis and that piano. Oh heavens...she sang...and the fight! Glancing around the room, her eyes spotted the flask. Carly...she had told her to drink that, didn't she? But why? And why had Carly left her in his room?
After a moment of watching the girl nibble nervously on her lower lip, Jason asked, "Are you going to answer me?"
"I-I..." Elizabeth couldn't quite find the words to describe all that had happened.
Before Elizabeth could finish her reply, Carly came in through the door saying, "Sorry for takin' so long, but Johnny gave me some more coffee for ya. And well...I tried to clean this thin' and put some violet water on it, but 'fraid it'll still smell a little of whiskey, honey..." She suddenly stopped and exclaimed in surprise, "Oh, Jase, you're back!"
Jason's eyes wandered down to the peach gown, and then up to Carly's surprised face. "What is going on here, Carly?" he asked in a deceptively calm voice.
Carly glanced over at the girl in the bed, who looked frightened to death. "Um...the gal here came to pay her hog a visit and got into some mischief...well anyway, some whiskey was spilled on her dress, and I was tryin' to give it a quick cleanin'...nothin' to worry 'bout Jase. We'll be outta here in a-"
By this time, Jason had stopped listening to Carly's ramblings and turned to Elizabeth, "You came over here to see the pig?" Without waiting for the girl to reply, he turned back to Carly and demanded, "Why wasn't she taken back home?"
Carly sighed, "'Fraid the gal's been imbibing in a bit of oh-be-joyful or something, 'cause she sure was actin' mighty peculiar, singing and such...Anyway, Sonny didn't want to send her back to that dance like that and have them old biddies sayin' we plied the girl with drink! So we've been tryin' to sober her up first..."
Was that why she was behaving so strangely? Once again Jason turned his blue gaze toward the girl. "You've been taking in spirits?!"
In reply Elizabeth moaned slightly. Each time he yelled at her, the hammering in her head doubled. Grabbing her head with one hand, she said apprehensively, "I-I just don't understand...I've never touched spirits. Grams would have my head on a chopping block!" And at this point, her grandmother could chop off her head with her blessing if it would only take away the pounding!
Carly laughed, "Well, honey, you've been touchin' some tonight." Seeing that Jason was about to say something else, Carly took pity on the girl and said, "Why don't ya change into your dress, honey and I'll get Francis to take ya back to that dance? Lord knows they're probably out searchin' for ya by now."
After handing the girl the dress, Carly grabbed Jason by the arm, and dragged him out of the room.
As Carly closed the door firmly behind them, Jason glanced down the hall suspiciously. He thought he had heard something...but the long hallway was empty. It was probably only some cowboy and one of Carly's girls enjoying themselves. Dismissing the sound, he turned a questioning glare toward Carly.
But before Jason could direct any questions her way, Carly scolded, "Can't ya see the girl's upset as it is Jase? She's likely never drank a thing before and she must feel like she's been run over by a herd of buffalo!"
If the girl was suffering, she wasn't the only one. The last few days of worry over Rebecca and now this girl, were catching up to him, giving him a raging headache. Taking a deep breath, he finally said wearily, "Carly, tell me what happened from the beginning."
Carly explained everything she had witnessed since she had seen the girl on the dance floor. By the end, Jason's headache had reach epic proportions... "You're telling me she was singin' and that started that brawl down there? How the hell is it a girl that small can continually cause more trouble than any man I've ever met?"
"I know. They could've won the war a great deal faster, if she'd been fightin'." Carly laughed. "But I like her, Jase." She saw the look of incredulity on his face and laughed harder, "I do. She's a hoot. I couldn't have asked for a better shindig, and she seems a rather sweet li'le thin'. When Sonny and the boys came back with those wild stories 'bout her, I was mighty curious, but I never thought I'd like someone related to that Hardy woman. But I do like her."
Jason groaned in disbelief. "Carly!"
"And ya be nice to her, Jase, ya hear. Lord that scowl on your face would scare a grown man let alone that li'le one. Though she didn't seem a bit fearful earlier this ev'ning. But then again the effects of the spirits must be wearin' off..."
Jason sighed running a hand over his rough jaw line. "Alright...you like her...Sonny, Francis and Johnny...hell you all like her, but I just want her away from this place. The longer she's here, the more trouble she's going to get in."
Carly nodded, "I know. I-"
At that moment Elizabeth, once again properly dressed in peach and with her hair somewhat neatly tied back by a ribbon, opened the door and stepped hesitantly out of the room. She looked apprehensively at Carly, careful to avoid Jason's gaze. "I think I should go back to the dance now..."
Carly looked at Jason, and then nodded. "Sure honey, just let me get Francis. Jase, ya escort her to the back, and I'll have Francis meet her there."
Jason shook his head, "No. I'll take her back to the social." Carly's face must've shown her surprise, because he continued, "No need to interrupt Francis from one of his numbers and arising folk's suspicions."
"Well...alright. I'll tell Sonny and the boys you're escortin' the girl." Carly glanced over to the very quiet Elizabeth and said kindly, "'Twas nice seein' ya again, honey. Ya sure do know how to liven up an ev'ning!"
Elizabeth blushed before replying, "Thank you, Mrs. Corinthos."
Carly laughed, "It's Carly honey...'sides ya called my husband by his first name so you'd better call me by mine or I'll be mighty jealous! 'Night." With that she was gone in a blaze of purple down the hallway and stairs.
An awkward silence followed her departure. Finally, Jason said abruptly, "We'd should get goin'," and turning around he made his way toward the backstairs.
As the two headed down the stairs, a figure walked out of one of the rooms and swore. It seemed the plans for the evening had just changed because of that troublesome girl...Dark eyes glanced toward Jason's door and narrowed. Or perhaps not...
With her hand rubbing her aching temples, Elizabeth followed Jason's tall, lean form down the narrow stairs. Before leaving Jason's room, she had glanced at the clock on the table and it had indicated it was just past midnight. It had been likely almost three hours since she left the dance. Her grandmother and sister must have spotted her absence by now. How was she going to explain what happened, when she didn't even know? What had possessed her? Carly had said she had imbibed spirits...but that was simply ridiculous! She hadn't even drank anything but that punch!
They had made their way outside into the cool night air, which along with that second flask of coffee, helped to clear Elizabeth's head. Jason waited until the girl was beside him, before continuing around the building onto the main street. He kept a careful eye out for anyone that might take notice of them, but no one was about. It was strange how the streets were so empty.
In tense silence, they made their way toward the town hall. When they finally arrived at the entrance, Jason asked, "Can you make it the rest of the way on your own?" When she nodded, he bid her a quick, "'Night Miss Webber."
"Goodnight," Elizabeth said quietly, grateful that their uncomfortable time together was at an end. She turned and made her way into the building. To her surprise, the place was almost completely empty! Where was everyone? Turning to a young man who was sweeping the floor, she asked, "Where is everyone?"
The man tilted back his hat and stared at her, chuckling. "They've all gone home, miss!"
"Gone home?!" Usually no one left 'til past one at the earliest. This social was one of the biggest of the year, and often went almost 'til dawn.
"Yes. Was the strangest thin'. First all them ladies were ragin' 'bout all the men folk leavin', and the next moment, they were laughin', dancin' and enjoyin' the food and refreshments! Then they were screamin' at each other and making a ruckus. Why a number of them were goin' at it."
Elizabeth blinked, "What?!"
The man smiled, "If I didn't know better, I'd think they had some..." He held up his hand and tilted back his head as if taking a swig of whiskey, "If ya know what I mean? So the sheriff told 'em all to go home."
Elizabeth couldn't believe it! Not only had she appeared half seas over but so had the whole town! But it made no sense...the only thing she and the ladies drank was that...punch! Oh heavens! Could someone have put something in it? It was the only explanation.
Elizabeth's eyes widened as another thought came to her. Somehow her grandmother and sister had forgotten about her and left! But why was there no one out looking for her? The streets had been empty just moments ago! And now she was stranded in town! What should she do?
She could go to one of the people she knew in town like Mrs. Collins or the Jones, but they'd have questions as to how she was left behind! Perhaps she could walk home...but it would take her hours and it was very dark out there, even with the moonlight...Oh no! There was only one thing she could think of...but she wondered whether walking in the dark would be preferable...
Not giving herself any more time to fret over the matter, she ran out of the building and flew down the street after the lone figure making his way toward the saloon. "Mr. Morgan! Please wait!"
With a groan, Jason turned around to find the girl running toward him. He should have known it wouldn't be that easy to be rid of her. "What?"
Panting to catch her breath, Elizabeth said, "I'm sorry. I wouldn't ask you...if there was another way...but everyone's departed from the dance." She took a deep breath, "It seems all the ladies were acting mighty peculiar tonight...and my grandmother and sister must have left without me..."
Jason had a suspicion of what it was the girl couldn't seem to get out. "And you need someone to take you back to your farm?"
Looking down at his black leather boots, she nodded. "I'm sorry to bother you, but I don't know any other way to avoid...questions."
He could imagine what kind of questions her family would have for her. Well, it looked like he was going for another ride this night. Jason nodded. "Alright, let's get my horse."
Elizabeth let out a small sigh of relief as she followed him once again to the back of the saloon. She waited while he saddled his horse and guided it out of the small stable.
They walked with the horse to the main street and then Jason lifted her onto the saddle, before mounting himself. While she had ridden on horseback before on the Spencer farm, Elizabeth felt very strange riding with a man so close in proximity behind her. His body heat was searing her back, and as he reached for the reins, she felt the heat travel up to her face. Oh heavens!
Jason shifted uncomfortably in the saddle trying to keep his distance from the girl, but it was impossible. He was so close to her he could smell the strange blend of violets and whiskey coming from her. Lord...if her grandmother got a whiff of that, she'd know for sure the girl had been at the saloon! But for some reason, he had the urge to lean in closer to inhale more of the aroma. What the hell was wrong with him? Obviously the lack of sleep was getting to him.
At a slow trot, they rode in uncomfortable silence out of the town, and down the dirt road. Jason was usually a man of silence but he found as this one stretched out, it only increased his awareness of the tiny frame pressed up against him. Recalling their meeting of the previous morning, he asked gruffly, "How's Luke Spencer's daughter?"
Already tense, Elizabeth jumped a little as she felt the unexpected rumbling of his voice through her body. She swallowed and answered quietly, "Lulu's fine...she's just not used to having people yelling around her...she's rather doted on that farm of hers." Elizabeth smiled as she thought of how all the farmhands would bring the little girl little wooden carvings they made, or the wild flowers they picked.
"I shouldn't have yelled in front of her," Jason muttered.
After a moment of thought, Elizabeth suggested, "Well...it is rather hard to control one's temper when one is agitated. And you were..." Elizabeth paused wondering if she should go on. But look at all the things she had already done this night. Surely one simple observation wouldn't hurt, "...worried about your daughter."
Jason stiffened. He couldn't talk about Rebecca...
In the ensuing silence, Elizabeth felt uneasy. She should have kept her mouth closed as usual, but this night the unusual seemed to be the norm. Now it was Elizabeth who was unable to stand the uncomfortable silence. So with eyes focused on the large hands holding the reins, she began to chatter nervously, "You know...I do believe Mrs. Cor-Carly was right...I may have imbibed some spirits tonight. From what that hand in the hall told me, everyone at the dance must have...that's why they went home early. Apparently the ladies were...um...arguing...and making a fuss." As the man behind her remained silent, Elizabeth continued awkwardly, "I think it was something in the punch as that was the only thing I drank all evening."
Remembering another time and another place, Jason smiled slightly, "It was likely some younin's prank..."
"I cannot believe how strong spirits are...no wonder they warn you about them..." Elizabeth continued softly. It was almost easy talking to him like this, without having to look at his hard face and those penetrating eyes... "And I can't imagine what Grams must've been like..." As the image of a tipsy Grams popped into her mind, Elizabeth started to giggle, "Oh dear! I hope they never find out who did this, or Grams will have their heads!"
At the sound of the girl's mirth, Jason stared down at the top of her head. They had now met a number of times, but he couldn't remember ever hearing her laugh before. Then again, the situations he had found her in were hardly laughing matters. But he found he liked the cheerful sound.
"And...oh no!" Elizabeth could not believe she had completely forgotten about Sarah and Lucky for almost three hours! Their whole evening must have been ruined. Poor Lucky...and poor Sarah. But as she thought of how her sister had gone on and on about this evening, Elizabeth couldn't help but feel slightly, just slightly mind you, happy that the evening was a disaster. "Oh that's not very nice..." Elizabeth admonished herself.
Confused by her words, Jason asked, "What?" Did she just say he wasn't nice? Hadn't she called him nice the other day?
"Oh! I'm sorry...I was speaking to myself, Mr. Morgan..."
Shaking his head at his inability to follow her conversation, Jason let her strange chattering go on uninterrupted. But then he began wondering why she kept addressing him so formally when she was willing to call Sonny and Carly by their given names...
A good half an hour had passed before the two riders approached the farm, and Jason dismounted. With hand on her waist, Jason helped Elizabeth to the ground. As soon as she was standing on her own two feet, Elizabeth eyes swept the farm. She could make out the buggy by the barn. Her grandmother and sister were home and as the lights in the house were dark, she deduced they must be asleep. She again wondered how they could have completely forgotten about her.
Feeling Jason's eyes on her, Elizabeth said softly, "Thank you, sir." She kept her eyes down, still afraid to look at him. It was so much easier speaking when she didn't have to face him.
Noticing her uneasiness, Jason was surprised to discover that all the anger in him from earlier that night had now disappeared. He felt a little guilty about being so harsh with the girl when she had been the victim of a jest. And yet, how was it, she was the only one to find her way into his room? Well, as long as she got home without incident, that was all that mattered. Jason replied briefly, "You're welcome, Miss Webber."
While staring straight ahead at the farmhouse, Elizabeth said shyly, "You don't need to call me Miss Webber, sir. Elizabeth's fine."
Jason was about to reply, but then a thought struck him, and he asked, "How are you going to sneak into the house without being seen?"
Elizabeth's eyes widened. How was she going to get into the house? She was silent for a moment, giving the matter some thought, and then answered, "I'll climb up to the banister. It's not too high up and my window's always open." Just the thought of it made her palms sweaty, but there was no other way.
"No."
At the harsh word, Elizabeth looked up in surprise. "What?"
Jason shook his head. "You can't climb up to your window that way. It's too dangerous."
"But it's the only way..."
Jason asked, "Is there a ladder around here?"
Elizabeth nodded. "Yes, by the barn."
"Show me where it is."
Hesitantly, Elizabeth turned around and led him down the field toward the side of the barn where the ladder leaned against the wall. Grabbing the ladder near the middle, Jason whispered, "Now show me where your window is."
Without thinking, Elizabeth took the head of the ladder with both her hands to help him out, and directed them towards the east side of the house. "There, that window to the left."
Jason leaned the ladder underneath the window, and instructed, "You climb up. I'll hold onto the base to steady it."
Elizabeth looked at her window, which now seemed such a long way up. Oh dear! She was never going to be able to do this...
Jason saw her eyes widen with fear. He said firmly, "You can do this, Miss--" he paused and then finished softly, "Elizabeth."
At the sound of her given name in the deep timbre of his voice for the very first time, Elizabeth's astonished eyes turned to see him looking down at her intently. His eyes were so fierce with determination...she didn't think there was anything he'd be afraid of.
Taking a deep breath, she told herself she could do this...and placed a foot tentatively on the wooden ladder. One by one she took the steps slowly, without looking down, until she was at her window. Pulling herself through the opening, she let out a sigh of relief.
On the ground, Jason was letting out his own held breath. He pulled the ladder down, and was about to walk back to the barn, when he heard her whisper, "Good night, Mr.-" She paused a moment, considering calling him by his given name, but she found her unprecedented daring for the night had ended, "...Morgan...Thank you again."
With his hand on the rim of his hat, he acknowledged her, "'Night." And then he was gone.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~
An half an hour later, Jason had just ridden back into town, when he noticed a number of riders with torches gathered by the saloon entrance. A voice shouted out, "No need to go in, Sheriff, Morgan's out here!"
At the shout, guns and shotguns were immediately aimed directly at Jason.
"Get down, Morgan!" Mac ordered as he made his way to stand in front of Jason's horse.
Jason stayed where he was, and asked emotionlessly, "What's this about, Sheriff?"
"You know damn well what this is about. I won't be sayin' it again. Get off that horse." When Jason still made no move, a shot rang out, and Jason's horse bucked slightly. But through his skill with the reins, Jason easily kept the animal under control.
A crowd from the saloon came running out to see what all the commotion was about. Sonny, Carly , Francis and Johnny were among them.
Taking in the scene, Sonny asked angrily, "What the hell is goin' on here, Sheriff?"
As Mac's eyes swept over the number of men at Sonny's side, he warned, "Stay out of this, Corinthos. I just want Morgan."
Stepping right in front of Mac, Carly declared angrily, "Well, ya ain't gettin' him without goin' through us!"
"If need be, ma'am." Mac said coldly, "But I don't think you'd be wanting to put your life on the line for a cold blooded killer."
"What?!" Johnny and Francis shouted in consternation.
Mac turned his eyes back to Jason and nodded. "Yep. You didn't think they'd find him so soon did you?"
Jason still had no idea what Mac was talking about. "Find who?"
Mac laughed, "You know...but if you want me to spell it out for you. Edward Quartermaine. He died from a gunshot wound to the heart 'bout half an hour ago in the arms of his wife at their ranch."
Exclamations and shouts of astonishment and horror ran through the gathered crowd.
"And," Mac continued, "He named his murderer...You willing to guess whose name he said, Morgan?"
Blue eyes glittering in the red glow of the lights of the torches, Jason didn't answer.
"It was yours, Morgan. Even your grandmother witnessed it. So now do you have anything to say?"
Still Jason didn't answer.
"Then get off your horse and hand over your gun. This time I'm taking you to jail and no one is stopping me." Mac pushed his way past Carly to walk closer to Jason.
But as ornery as ever, Carly simply stepped in front of Mac once again. She shouted angrily, "You callin' that proof, sheriff? So he said Jase's name? What does that prove?"
"That ma'am, combined with the fact he was seen at the fair threatening Edward Quartermaine's life is evidence. I don't know why they'd be fighting over AJ Quartermaine's daughter, but there's plenty of witnesses to the event. Besides there seems to be a longstanding feud between the two men...So, Mrs. Corinthos, we've got plenty of evidence."
Carly shook her head, "That don't mean a thin'! There's plenty of folks with reasons for wantin' Edward Quartermaine dead 'sides Jase. How do ya know Jase was even anywhere near wherever the old man was killed? And what 'bout the gun?"
"We found the gun out back by the ranch where the shooting must have taken place." Then looking up at Jason, Mac asked, "Where have you been for the past two hours, Morgan?"
Jason answered curtly, "Riding."
"Anyone go with you?"
Without hesitation, Jason gave a small shake of his head.
Mac turned triumphant eyes toward Carly. "Well, I'm afraid, ma'am your friend is goin' on trial for the murder of Edward Quartermaine. Get him down boys."
As he saw Carly about to pounce on the sheriff and Sonny and his men about to draw their guns, Jason said calmly, "No, I'll go peacefully. Get Ned for me in the morning, Sonny."
And then as her husband's arm came around her shoulder in comfort, Carly watched in horror as Jason dismounted from his horse on his own and was taken away to the jail.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~
