An eruption of rumbling and pounding greeted Kyle and Rachel early the next morning. Pulled from his sleep, Kyle propped up on his shoulders, saying, "What the…?"

"What is that?" Rachel groaned.

"I don't know," Kyle said, getting out of bed, "I'm going to find out."

Rubbing one eye, Kyle walked down the hallway, to the top of the stairs where he observed a team of construction workers, running power tools, amidst hammering and the occasional raised voices. Covering one ear due to the noise, Kyle descended the stairs, waving his other arm to get the workers attention.

"Hey!" Kyle called, his voice muffled by the whir of a power saw, "Excuse me? Hello?"

Finally noticing Kyle standing there, one of the construction men approached him, with a loud voice to be heard he said, "Good morning."

"Good morning?" Kyle said, also increasing the volume of his voice, "Could you please turn that off?"

The worker gestured to his teammate and the noise ceased. "What is going on here?" Kyle said.

"We were hired to work on renovating this place," the man said.

"It's five in the morning," Kyle said, "My wife and I were jolted awake by this."

"Our instructions were to make this a priority job," the worker said, "Sorry, if we woke you. No one told us there was anyone living here yet."

"We just got back from our honeymoon yesterday," Kyle said.

"Just married?" the man said, "Congratulations."

"Thanks," Kyle said.

"Kyle?" Rachel called, "What's going on?"

"It's okay," Kyle answered, "The construction team is here."

"Tell them they have rotten timing," Rachel said.

"She gets cranky when she's woken too early," Kyle said.

"Do you want us to come back later?" the worker said.

"No, you might as well continue," Kyle said, "We will be leaving for work soon enough."

Kyle walked back towards the bedroom, cringing as the power saw resumed its volume. Entering the room, Kyle found Rachel sitting up in bed.

"Why are they here so early?" Rachel pouted.

Climbing on the bed, Kyle said, "They want to get the job done as soon as possible." Leaning closer to her he continued, "Besides, this gives us an extra hour before we have to go back to reality."

Kyle pulled her into a kiss, just as the sound of a drill was added to the noise level. Rachel's head dropped to his shoulder, as Kyle said, "How about we go to the coffeehouse for breakfast?"

"Thank you," Theo said, retrieving his coffee from the front counter, at Crimson Lights. Turning around he smiled when he saw Kyle and Rachel walking in. "If it isn't Mr. and Mrs. Abbott," he said.

"How long are you going to keep that up?" Kyle said.

"I don't mind hearing it," Rachel said.

"I see you're getting back into the swing of things nice and early," Theo said.

"Not by choice," Rachel said.

"Am I supposed to know what that means?" Theo said.

"We were woken up at five by construction," Kyle said.

"So?" Theo said, "That's when I always get up."

"We were hoping for another hour of sleep," Rachel said, "At least I was."

"I could have used it too," Kyle said.

Out on the patio, Mariah arrived with Tessa. "I've changed my mind, maybe this isn't a good idea," Tessa worried, "Let's go back to the apartment, where it's more cozy."

"You can't avoid people for ever," Mariah said, "Once they see we are back together, they will accept you."

The ladies, stepped inside, where Kyle and Rachel noticed them. "Look who's back from their honeymoon," Mariah smiled.

"Hi," Kyle said.

"Well, Tessa and I were just wondering when you two kids were coming home," Mariah said. Kyle nodded, as Rachel warily eyed Tessa, who wouldn't make eye contact with them.

After a tense pause, Mariah said, "So, how was the honeymoon?"

"It was amazing," Rachel said, "Romantic."

"We had a great trip," Kyle said.

"I'm glad you had a good time," Tessa meekly said.

"Are you?" Rachel sternly said.

"We heard about your arrest," Kyle said, "I see you're out of jail."

"I can see you're both angry with me," Tessa said.

"Now why would that be?" Rachel sneered "Why would I be upset Tessa? I mean, you only conspired with you brother, to do away with my husband!"

"I'm sorry, I…" Tessa started.

Cutting her off, Rachel continued, "How could you do something like that, to us? To me, who was supposed to be your friend. What possible motivation would you have to try to get rid of someone who means so much to me?"

Tessa fidgeted nervously, at a loss for words. "I'm sure you have some questions," Mariah said, stepping in, "Let's cool off and talk calmly."

Putting his hands on Rachel's shoulders, Kyle said, "Maybe, now is not the time."

"No, I want an answer," Rachel said, "Why Tessa? Why did you go after him like this? You must have had a reason."

"It's hard to explain," Tessa said.

"Tell me the truth!" Rachel said.

"Because I loved you," Tessa said.

"What?" Kyle and Rachel said together.

"Would you like to explain what that means?" Kyle said.

"I loved you," Tessa said, "I only…I wanted you to be happy."

"Do you think my husband being gone, would make me happy?" Rachel said, "What is wrong with you?"

"I get it," Kyle said, "You wanted Rachel for yourself. Isn't that it?"

Tessa didn't answer. Rachel glared at Tessa as she said, "You mean to tell me, that you tried to get the man I love, out of the way, so you could have relationship with me? You thought that I would want to be with you? I have told you that would never happen. I never knew you were this selfish. Is this what you have been reduced to? Taking away the love of my life, so you and I could be together?!"

Sniffing back a few tears, Tessa said, "Yes."

Rachel didn't hesitate as she slapped Tessa. Tessa's hand went to her cheek as she stared at Rachel.

"You were my friend," Rachel said, "I trusted you. You were my maid of honor at my wedding! How could you be so cruel?"

"I realize I was wrong," Tessa cried, "I'm so sorry."

"Okay, Tessa has been through a lot too," Mariah said, putting her arm around Tessa's shoulders, "We don't need to persecute her like this."

"Mariah, what are you thinking?" Kyle said, "You're defending her? You know what she did, what kind of person she is!"

"I would like to go home," Tessa whimpered.

"It's okay," Mariah soothed. Looking at Kyle, Mariah, gestured for him to follow her, as she said, "Could I have a word with you?"

Stepping aside and speaking in a lower voice, Kyle said, "What are you thinking? How could you trust her?"

"I don't," Mariah said.

"You lost me," Kyle said.

"I told Tessa I forgave her and I still love her," Mariah said, "I am playing along, getting her to let her guard down. If she is up to something, I can find out and stop it before is happens. I can't get rid of this feeling that something is up. You need to be careful and steer clear of her and her brother. I don't trust either one of them."

"You should be careful too," Kyle said, "If Tessa or Austin find out what you're up to there could be consequences."

"Then follow my lead and don't blow my cover," Mariah said.

Across the room, Rachel shook her head at Tessa, as she said, "I don't believe you."

"I've had about enough too," Tessa said, her demeanor changing to anger.

"Have you?" Rachel said.

Raised voices brought Kyle and Mariah to their significant other's side.

"You are standing there treating me like the town pariah," Tessa said, "Lest you forget it was me, who stopped Austin from killing your husband. I talked him down. Your precious spouse is alive because of me."

"You really think you are the hero?" Rachel said, "You disgust me."

"I feel sorry for you," Tessa said, "You gave yourself to a spoiled rich kid, who you will get a nice settlement from when it all goes south."

"Back off," Kyle said, "None of what you're saying is true. Then again were you're words ever the truth?"

"Don't you ever bad mouth my husband again," Rachel said.

"Your husband," Tessa snickered, "You say that like he's some kind of trophy. Some young handsome guy you can show off."

"You better watch what you say to me," Rachel said.

"Why can't you see what a pathetic loser he is?" Tessa said.

"Hey!" Kyle said.

"Tessa…" Mariah said, "Ease off."

"He can't give you the life you deserve," Tessa said, "You two won't even last a year."

"Maybe you would like to see what I can give you!" Rachel said, shoving Tessa, leading to the two of them in a physical struggle.

Kyle pulled Rachel back, holding her by the waist, while Mariah jumped in between to force Tessa to settle.

"You will never be my friend again!" Rachel hollered, "I wish I'd never met you!"

Still holding on to Rachel, Kyle said, "Mariah, get Tessa out of here."

"Let's go," Mariah said, leading Tessa to the exit.

"Tessa, one more thing," Kyle said, "Stay away from my wife."

"Stay away from both of us," Rachel said.

Kyle released his hold and said, "You okay?"

"How could she do this?" Rachel said, "She tries to act so apologetic and then she turns vicious." Sighing, she continued, "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to get so upset. I just…"

"I understand," Kyle said, hugging her.

Strolling over, Theo said, "I was hoping to see you take her down in a knock out fight."

Kyle and Rachel stared at him, disapproval in their faces. Taking his cue to leave, Theo said, "Right, I'll see you two at the office."

"Dad?" Kyle said, opening the office door, only to find it empty. Kyle stepped inside, deciding to wait a few minutes, for his father to arrive.

"Jack, I…" Summer's familiar voice, made Kyle turn around.

"Kyle?" Summer said. She walked towards him and putting her hands on his shoulders, she said, "Thank heavens."

Laughing, Kyle said, "It's nice to see you too."

"I have been losing my mind, covering work for both of us," Summer said.

"Never fear, I am back to take some of the weight off your shoulders," Kyle said.

"It's good to have you back," Summer said. Sauntering a few feet away, she said, "So, how was your…your trip?"

"It was great," Kyle said, "Unforgettable."

"As it should be," Summer said, "I'm happy to hear you had a good time."

"Part of me wishes we were still there," Kyle said.

"In Hawaii?" Summer said, "I can understand that."

"What's been going on with you while I was away?" Kyle said, "Other than going crazy with work. How are things with your boyfriend?"

"His name is Fen and things are great," Summer said, "We are close to finding a place to move in together."

"You're going to live with him?" Kyle said

"You don't have to sound so surprised," Summer said.

"I didn't know you were thinking along those lines," Kyle said.

"He proposed," Summer said.

"You're engaged?" Kyle smiled, "Congratulations."

"I turned him down," Summer said.

"Why did you do that?" Kyle said.

"I'm not ready for marriage," Summer said, "Maybe one day. How did this conversation become about me?"

"Kyle," Jack smiled, entering the office, "Welcome back."

"Thanks," Kyle said.

"I hope you are ready to get back into work," Jack said, "Summer has been working extra hard while you were away."

"So, I hear," Kyle said, "Dad, there's something I need to talk to you about."

"That's my cue," Summer said, "I'll let you talk and catch up with you later." She walked towards the door pausing to say, "It's really great to have you back Kyle." Summer shared a smile with him before she left.

"I'm sorry I missed you at dinner last night," Jack said, "Traci said you and Rachel came up to the house."

"We did," Kyle said.

"There's something we should discuss," Jack said.

"I already know what you're going to say," Kyle said.

"You do?" Jack said.

"What were you thinking?" Kyle said, "How could you hire that parasite to work here?"

"You're talking about Austin Travers," Jack said, "How did you know about that?"

"I ran into him at Society yesterday," Kyle said, "He couldn't wait to tell me all about his job in the mail room. He had to rub it in that he will be under my nose at work. How could you do this to me?"

"I understand your reservations," Jack said, "However, with Austin working here, we know where he is and what he is doing. I will be keeping a close eye on him, reporting to the authorities about his behaviour and performance."

"Why does he have to be our responsibility?" Kyle said.

"It is better than not knowing where he is and what he may be up to," Jack said, "He is not going to pull any underhanded stunts here and get away with it. If he causes any trouble he is out of here and back to jail. You know what they say keep your enemies close."

"How did you get involved with this?" Kyle said.

"The parole board contacted me," Jack said, "They asked I would be willing to hire him as a part of his probation. Just like Rachel was hired here when she was on parole."

"You can't compare the two," Kyle said.

"I wasn't trying to," Jack said, "Besides, he's in the mail room. They will keep him busy and you won't even have to see him."

"Just knowing he's in the building gives me the creeps," Kyle said.

"We never got a chance to talk about the trauma you went through at the reception," Jack said, "Are you handling everything okay?"

"Doing the best I can," Kyle said.

"What does that mean?" Jack said.

"I've had a few nightmares about it," Kyle said, "After going through something like that, wouldn't you?"

"There's no need to be on the defensive," Jack said, "I only want to make sure you are okay."

"I am," Kyle said.

Jack nodded. "There's one other thing I want to…" Jack was cut off by a scream from the hallway.

Jack and Kyle ran out of the office, to find Summer shrieking in panic, as she stood in the corridor.

"Summer, what's wrong?" Kyle said, rushing to her, "You're shaking."

"Can't you see?" Summer said, pointing, "It's him! How did he get in here?"

Kyle and Jack looked to see Austin, standing by a mail cart. Raising his hands to chest level, Austin said, "It wasn't my intention to startle anyone. I'm sorry Summer, I didn't mean to."

"Get rid of him," Summer said.

"He works here," Kyle said.

"What?!" Summer said.

"Let's go and talk about this somewhere else," Kyle said, leading Summer away.

"We talked about this," Jack said, "What are you doing on this floor?"

"Someone called in sick, so I was told I could fill in delivering for today," Austin said, "I have some for you." He handed Jack a small stack of envelopes. "I have some for Kyle and Summer too."

"I'll take those," Jack said.

"I really didn't mean to upset anyone," Austin innocently said.

"Okay," Jack said, "Back to work."

Austin nodded as he headed to the elevator and Jack retreated into the office. Looking into the direction, Summer had gone, Austin revealed a sly smile. "So pretty," he said, waltzing onto the elevator.

"Let me get this straight," Summer said, as she paced the boardroom, "Austin gets to walk around free, after what he did to us? What kind of cruel joke is this?

"I don't like it anymore than you do," Kyle said, "But it's the way things are."

"Kyle, he's a menace!" Summer protested.

"He's also smart," Kyle said, "He knows if he does anything wrong it will jeopardize his parole. I'm sure he does not want to go back to jail."

"But why does he have to work here?" Summer said, "Well, I'm not going to stand for this. I am going to talk to Jack and get him to fire him."

Kyle caught Summer at the door and said, "Listen, this is how it was explained to me. My Dad is going to keep an eye on him, he reports to the authorities. Isn't knowing he's here better than him being who knows where and up to who knows what? He can't smooth talk his way out of anything with my Dad."

"I still don't like it," Summer said.

"Austin won't hurt you," Kyle said, "I won't let him." Kyle gave Summer a comforting hug.

"Do you still think about what happened at the reception?" Summer said, "I do. It will suddenly pop into my head and is scares me all over again."

"Are you uh…" Kyle started, "Having any nightmares?"

"No," Summer said, "I won't let him get into my head that much. Are you having them?"

"Every night since," Kyle said, "No matter what, I can't turn them off."

"Kyle…" Summer sympathized, rubbing his arm.

"At first it was that night, that moment, playing over and over," Kyle said, "Now, if he's not threatening me in the dream, it's Rachel or you and I'm helpless to stop him."

"Does your wife know you are having these dreams?" Summer said.

"I disturb her sleep every time I jump awake," Kyle said, "Sometimes, I try to put off falling asleep, but eventually I do and then it starts."

"Kyle, if you're having these kinds of issues, maybe you should talk to someone," Summer said.

"I'm talking to you," Kyle said.

"I appreciate you feel comfortable to share this with me," Summer said, "But I was referring to a professional."

"You think I need a psychiatrist," Kyle said.

"There is no shame in having someone help you sort out your feelings," Summer said, "It's not good for you to keep this all inside and suffer for it."

"I'll take that under consideration," Kyle said.

"I can look up some names for you to contact," Summer said. Kyle smiled at her. "What's that look about?" Summer said.

"You're always looking out for me," Kyle said.

"We're friends," Summer said, "You said it yourself."

"Sorry, our conversation was cut short," Kyle said, entering Jack's office.

"How is Summer?" Jack said, "Were you able to calm her down?"

"I was," Kyle said, "However, she is still not happy about him working here."

"I told him again, he is not to come up to this floor," Jack said.

"Maybe he will mess up and we won't have to deal with him anymore," Kyle said.

"I hope you are not planning to do anything to make that happen," Jack said, "I have no affection for Austin, but maybe all he needs is someone to give him a chance. To give him the incentive to turn his life around."

"He will never change," Kyle said, "He gets obsessed with everything he does and is not capable of doing things the right way."

"I get the feeling what happened between you and Austin is bothering you more than you are letting on," Jack said.

"I'm okay," Kyle said, "Didn't you start to tell me something earlier?"

"Yes, I did," Jack said, "First of all, I want to tell you how pleased I am of the work you have been doing as COO. The way you caught up on your work after your recovery and all the effort you put in on a daily basis, I'm proud of you."

"Thank you," Kyle said, "That means a lot."

"I also know that you are getting a bit restless and would like to resume the CEO duties," Jack said.

"Like we talked about, one day, when the time is right, I would hope to be your choice to take over," Kyle said.

"I would like you to tell me all the reasons you are the right person for the job," Jack said.

"You want me to do this right now?" Kyle said.

"No time like the present," Jack said.

"Okay…" Kyle said. Kyle laid out all of his education, experience and qualifications to his father. He talked about the future of the business and the challenges that lay ahead. "Jabot will be a great asset not just in the marketplace and to our customers, but for our employees as well," Kyle concluded, "If you see fit to pass this position on to me, I will not let you down. I can lead this company and make it profitable and thrive for many years to come."

"Okay, I'm impressed," Jack smiled, "You not only have the experience but the enthusiasm. You just made me more confident about the offer I am going to give you."

"And what is that?" Kyle said.

"I am prepared to give you the title of CEO of Jabot," Jack said.

Although Kyle tried to remain professional, Jack could see the excitement rising in Kyle's expression.

"You mean it?" Kyle said, "You're handing me the reigns of the company?"

"Hold on, you're getting ahead of yourself," Jack said, "My offer is for you to be CO-CEO, working alongside me. We will have equal responsibility, but I have a feeling you are up to the task."

"There's no one I would rather have as my business partner," Kyle said.

"Does that mean you accept the job?" Jack said.

Walking into the CEO office, Rachel was disappointed to find no one there. She waited a few minutes, before deciding to leave a note. Finding note paper on the desk, she sat in the chair and began to write.

"Has there been a regime change?" a familiar voice said. Rachel looked up to see Kyle smiling at her.

"I was just leaving a note," Rachel said.

Gesturing to her Kyle said, "You know, that desk suits you. You make a very sexy executive, Miss CEO."

Rachel smiled and folding her hands on the desk she said, "What can I do for you, young man?"

"I need to get a message to my wife," Kyle said, walking around to where she was sitting.

"What should it say?" Rachel said.

Leaning over and placing his hands on either arm rest, Kyle said, "Nothing." He pulled her into a kiss.

Kyle was about to give Rachel another kiss, when she rolled the chair away and stood up. "We can't do this," Rachel said.

"Sure we can," Kyle said, "It's okay, we're married."

Walking past him, Rachel said, "Your Dad will be here any minute."

"No, he's left for the day," Kyle said.

"He has?" Rachel said, "That's strange. I got a message to meet with the CEO right away. Am I in trouble?"

"No," Kyle said.

"So, I get called down for a meeting with the CEO, but he's not here," Rachel said.

"Actually," Kyle said, "You're looking at him."

"What do you mean?" Rachel said, a smile creeping across her face.

"I was given a promotion to CEO," Kyle beamed, "Well, co-CEO. I will be sharing the running of this company with my father, as an equal partner."

"Kyle, that's wonderful!" Rachel said, throwing her arms around him.

"I'm really excited," Kyle said.

"Congratulations," Rachel said, "I know how much you wanted this. I am so proud of you."

"Thanks," Kyle said, as Rachel kissed his cheek.

"This calls for a celebration," Rachel said, "We could go for dinner and toast your promotion."

"The best ideas," Kyle smiled, pointing at her, before nuzzling another kiss.

"Oh…" they heard Summer exclaim as she stepped in the office. "Sorry…"

Kyle and Rachel fell silent, flustered at being caught.

"Maybe lock the door next time," Summer said. Kyle nodded, as Summer muttered, "I'm sure there will be one."

"We were celebrating Kyle's promotion, did you hear about it?" Rachel said.

"Yes, it's exciting news," Summer said, "I actually came to congratulate you and ask if you wanted to go for a drink, but I can see you have other plans. I'll let you carry on."

"Wait," Kyle said, "Why don't you join us?"

"No, thanks," Summer said, "I don't want to intrude."

"Not at all," Kyle said. Looking at Rachel, he continued, "Summer got a promotion too. She's head of marketing."

"Then you should come out with us," Rachel said, "Why don't you call Fen and the four of us can toast to success." Kyle nodded in agreement.

"I'm not sure if he can get away," Summer said, "I will call him."

Sitting in the small visitor's room of the jail, Austin drummed his fingers on the table before him. Looking up at the security guard and noticing his stern look, Austin stopped his hand motion. "Sorry," Austin said, "Nervous habit."

The guard did not respond, so Austin said, "I bet you miss me around here. You don't have to say it, I know you do."

Slightly shifting his position, the guard continued his firm stance.

The sound of the adjoining door opening, diverted Austin's focus. As Simon Black, was led inside, he sighed and shook his head at the sight of Austin. Sitting in a chair across from him, Simon said, "It took you long enough."

Kyle walked into the coffeehouse, approaching Sharon, who was behind the front counter. "Hi Sharon," Kyle said.

"Well, if it isn't the newest resident of Genoa City to be taken off the market," Sharon smiled.

Smiling back Kyle said, "Looks like it."

"How is married life?" Sharon said.

"So far so good," Kyle said.

"I'm happy for both of you," Sharon said.

"Thanks," Kyle said, "I'm glad I found you I wanted to ask you something."

"Oh?" Sharon said.

"I was wondering if you had some time to talk," Kyle said, "More like counsel."

"Is Rachel having some problems?" Sharon said.

"No, Rachel she's great," Kyle said, "It's for me."

"Can you give some idea what this is about?" Sharon said.

"I'm dealing with something and it's only getting worse," Kyle said, "I'm not sure how to handle it. I know you're skilled at advising people and I would really appreciate if you could give me some direction, to get this under control."

"It seems like this is weighing on you," Sharon said, "I can take a break in a few minutes. We can talk on the patio."

"Thanks," Kyle nodded.

Sitting alone at a table in Society, Rachel impatiently checked her watch. She was looking forward to celebratory dinner with Kyle, but was not so excited Summer had been invited to join them.

"Maybe she won't come," Rachel quietly said to herself.

Her thought was dashed as she saw Summer enter the restaurant. Spying Rachel, Summer approached her.

"Hi," Summer said.

"Summer," Rachel acknowledged.

"Where's Kyle?" she said, standing at the table.

"He had something to take care of," Rachel said, "He will be here."

Summer nodded and continued standing. Rachel gestured to a chair and said, "Would you like to sit?"

Summer half smiled as she took her seat. "So, where's Fen?" Rachel said.

"He's coming," Summer said, "Soon."

An awkward silence presented itself, prompting Rachel to say, "It's nice about your promotion."

"Thank you," Summer said, "I'm looking forward to it all."

"That's a lovely dress," Rachel said.

"Yours is nice too," Summer said.

"This evening should be fun," Rachel said.

"You don't have to," Summer said.

"Don't' have to what?" Rachel said.

"Make small talk with me," Summer said, "I know you don't really want me here."

"Do you want to be here?" Rachel said.

"Of course," Summer said, "We're here to celebrate Kyle's becoming CEO."

"And your new job," Rachel said.

"Right," Summer said.

"There it is," Rachel said.

"What's that?" Summer said.

"You are only here because it gives you more time with Kyle," Rachel said, "It's not enough for you to see him at the office all day, you have ingrate yourself into his evening."

"It was you who invited me to join you," Summer said, "But obviously you just did that to look good in front of your husband."

"Why is it so hard to have a rational conversation with you, without goading people into an argument?" Rachel said.

"I'm not going to…" Summer said.

"Good evening ladies," Fen said, his arrival cutting Summer off. Sitting next to Summer, he kissed her cheek and said, "Are we all making an effort to get along? I noticed some tension just now."

"Tension just seems to follow her around," Rachel said.

"Rudeness follows her," Summer said.

"Ladies, ladies," Fen said, "We're here to celebrate right?"

"Of course," Rachel said.

"Fine," Summer said.

"So, where is your other half?" Fen said, wishing Kyle would arrive so he would not have to continue to play referee.

"That is the question of the evening," Rachel said, "He should be here by now."

"Sorry, that took longer than I thought," Sharon said, sitting across from Kyle, "So, what's on your mind?"

"You know what happened at the wedding reception between me and Austin," Kyle said, "How he nearly…ended my life."

"I was there," Sharon said, "It was a horrible incident. You must have been frightened. Are you having trouble getting past it?"

"Not when I'm awake," Kyle said.

"You're having nightmares," Sharon said.

"Every night," Kyle said, "I can't make them stop."

"Tell me about them," Sharon said.

"It's always the same thing, I'm alone with Austin and he's threatening me with the gun again and he pulls the trigger and I wake up in panic mode," Kyle said, "Sometimes it varies and he's attempting to hurt Rachel or other people close to me and I'm helpless to stop him."

"So, you're not getting any restful sleep," Sharon said.

"No," Kyle said, "It's gotten to the point I'm afraid to go to sleep. When I do, everything starts to play in my head again. I've been trying to stay awake as long as I can."

"Okay," Sharon said, "First of all, sleep deprivation is not going to do you any favors. Does your wife know about these nightmares?"

"She's aware," Kyle said, "She tries to make me feel better and she soothes, but she cannot stop it from happening again."

"Kyle, it sounds to me like you could be afraid of Austin," Sharon said, "Is that true? It's completely understandable if you are."

"I'm afraid of what he might be capable of," Kyle said.

"Are you afraid of him?" Sharon said, "This is just between you and me."

"I don't know," Kyle sighed, "Maybe, I am. More that likely."

"I am going to suggest something that may make you uncomfortable," Sharon said, "I think it may help you if you talk to Austin."

"I don't want anything to do with him," Kyle said.

"Avoiding him, is not going to help you," Sharon said, "You need to have a non-confrontational talk with him. Tell him he has caused you nightmares. Ask him if he can explain why he felt the need to threaten you. Make him really think about it. Now, I'm not saying you should trust him and be friends. If you get this out in the open, make him understand what he has done to you, it might alleviate some of the pressure you're feeling. Once you have seen him and not escalated the situation, you will come to realize every time you see Austin he is not going to hurt you."

"Except every time I see him, I tense up," Kyle said.

"You have your guard up," Sharon said, "I understand. You have to try not to let him get to you. Ignore him. Don't return and argumentative remark. Be the bigger person. Set an example that you can co-exist with each other in a more peaceful manner."

"That's good advice," Kyle said, "Thank you."

"That's what I'm here for," Sharon said, "Try it out, let me know how it goes."

"I'll do that," Kyle smiled. Checking his watch, he popped out of his chair and said, "I have to go. I'm meeting Rachel for dinner and I'm late."

"I won't keep you then," Sharon said, "Have a nice evening with you new bride."

"She's the best," Kyle said, "Thanks again."

Sharon smiled as she watched Kyle, rush through the exit. "Young love," she sighed, walking back inside.

Left alone, Austin and Simone stared each other down. "You act like you were expecting me," Austin said.

"I know why you are here," Simon said.

"Why did you do it?" Austin said, "You could have been eligible for parole, like me. But no, you go and confess to something you didn't even do. What's up with that?"

"What makes you so sure you I'm innocent," Simon said, "Maybe I did run those kids off the road. Or maybe it was you."

"I am getting sick of people accusing me of this," Austin said, "I'm not the one responsible. I know it wasn't you either."

"Tell me why you are so sure," Simon said.

"You confessed to a crime, I was charged with," Austin said, "You don't do me favors like that. So what are you up to?"

"Does the phrase you owe me, mean anything to you?" Simon said.

"Oh, I get it," Austin said, "You need me out here to help you perpetuate another crime. Forget it, I 'm not doing anything that puts me back in jail."

"I did something for you," Simon said, "Got you out of jail. Now I need your help."

"I'm going regret asking," Austin said, "What can I do for you?"

"I want you to find the real culprit behind this car accident," Simon said, "Bring them to justice and I will recount my confession and get the charge against me dropped."

"How am I supposed to do that?" Austin said.

"I don't care how," Simon said, "You are resourceful, figure it out."

"Suppose I say no," Austin said.

"You refuse and I will not only recount my confession to put it back on you," Simon started, "But I will throw so much dirt your way, that you will spend an exceptional amount of time behind bars, with me."

"Your fatherly concern is overwhelming," Austin said, "I'll see what I can do."

"That's my boy," Simon said.

"Tess, told me she came to see you," Austin said.

"She has grown into an lovely young woman," Simon said.

"I'm curious what did you say to get me paroled?" Austin said, "I figured I was in for the long haul."

"I told them I was concerned about my son and your fragile state of mind," Simon said, "I gave them your history of panic attacks. I strongly recommended that a cell was not the place for you and what you needed was to be rehabilitated. I was overcome with concern for your well being. I told them I loved you and wanted what was best for you."

"You lied," Austin said.

"I was not a good father," Simon said, "That does not mean I don't want you, to be the best you and get everything you want."

"That's the plan," Austin said, "You're acting skills have improved. Whatever you said, it worked."

"It was Emmy winning," Simon grinned.

"I'll except on your behalf," Austin said.

"I know you will," Simon said, "Keep me posted."

"Okay," Austin said.

Standing up, Simon said, "It was good to see you. Maybe one day soon, I can join you and your sister on the outside."

"I guess we'll see," Austin said.

Austin headed for the door, as the guard came in to lead Simon away, when Simon turned and said, "Oh, one more thing. What we talked about, it's a limited time offer. But I know you'll take care of the family business."

Austin nodded watching Simon leave the room. Once he was out of sight, a look of worry came into Austin's eyes, as he gave a heavy sigh.

Fen twisted his water glass, between his fingers, as he listened to Summer and Rachel trading snarky remarks with each other.

"Maybe we should order some drinks?" Fen interjected.

"We should wait for Kyle," Rachel said, "He should be here any minute."

"Can't be soon enough for me," Fen muttered.

"What?" Summer said.

"I said, beats me where he could be," Fen covered.

"Finally," Summer said, spotting Kyle enter the restaurant. Summer raised her hand to signal their location.

"Sorry," Kyle said, "I know I'm late." He kissed Rachel on the cheek and sitting next to her continued, "I didn't realize my meeting would take so long." Kyle acknowledged Fen with a "Hey," which Fen returned.

"You're here now," Rachel said, "That's all that matters."

"Was this a work meeting?" Summer said.

"No," Kyle said, "Personal."

"Is everything okay?" Rachel said.

"Perfect," Kyle smiled.

Champagne arrived, as Kyle said, "I hope no one minds I took the liberty with this."

"It's just the thing," Summer said.

"It's kind of expensive," Fen said.

"Got it covered," Kyle said, as everyone was poured a glass, "What should we toast to?

"I know," Summer said, "To our new CEO…"

"Co-CEO," Kyle corrected.

"…and to being with the people we love," Summer said.

All took a sip, when Kyle said, "Also, to Summer on her well deserved promotion."

Drinking the toast, Fen noticed an uneasiness in Rachel's eyes, prompting him to say, "I think we should also toast the newlyweds and wish them every happiness."

Kyle and Rachel smiled as the foursome clinked glasses.

"I saw him today," Austin said, taking a seat, across from someone, at the local bar, "He was his usual bubbly self. Actually threatened me if I didn't comply. Seems like you told him everything." Austin took a drink from his beer, before continuing, "He didn't come right out and say it, but I could tell he knows. I have to give you credit, you're brilliant. We have everyone right where we want them and the beautiful part is no one is going to see it coming."

Sitting across from him Tessa smiled and raised her beer. "To getting what we want," she victoriously said.

Austin smiled back, "Cheers," he said.