"Thank you for meeting with me," Paul said, sitting across from Kyle and Rachel, in the couches area of Society, "I know you both have busy schedules."

"It sounded important," Rachel said.

"I have some questions for you myself," Kyle said.

"Perhaps, what I have to say will answer some of them," Paul said.

"Okay," Kyle said, "What is this about?"

"There has been a break in the case of your car accident," Paul said, "We have a confession."

"I thought Austin Travers was charged with that," Rachel said, "Did he confess?"

"No," Paul said, "Does the name Simon Black mean anything to either of you?"

Rachel shook her head, as Kyle said, "I know he's a business man who was recently arrested for an incident at the Grand Phoenix."

"Yes, he was," Paul said, "Simon Black has come forward and confessed he was responsible for running your car off the road last year."

Kyle frowned as he shared a look with Rachel. "I don't understand," Kyle said, "Wasn't it Austin?"

"Austin was originally charged with the crime," Paul said, "That is until Simon Black came forward."

"That doesn't make sense," Kyle said, "Rachel and I don't know the man. We never had anything to do with each other. What motivation would he have to do this to us?"

"He claims to have done it as retribution for his son," Paul said.

"I don't know who his son is either," Kyle said.

"As a matter of fact, you do," Paul said, "Simon Black is the father of Austin Travers."

Rachel shared a glance with Kyle, who stared at Paul in disbelief.


Across the room, sitting at a table by the kitchen area, Austin was busy enjoying some food. Watching people pass by and the staff as they served others, Austin observed Lola, coming out of the kitchen. Lola stopped when she saw Austin smiling at her.

Approaching him, Lola said, "What are you doing here?"

"I told you I would be back," Austin said,

Sighing, Lola said, "I don't want any more trouble from you."

"My only interest here is your food, which by the way, is outstanding," Austin said, "You are working some miracles in that kitchen."

"Thank you," Lola said, "Now would you please not come back anymore."

"You don't mean that," Austin said, "I'm over here in the shadows, where no one will see me."

"Don't you have a job you should be at?" Lola said.

"It's after hours," Austin said, "Besides, I was hoping to talk to you."

"I don't have anything to say to you," Lola said, "I also don't have time."

"Just for a few minutes?" Austin said, "I think you will be interested in what I have to say."

"I highly doubt that," Lola said, turning to walk away.

"It's about Kyle," Austin said, smiling as he watched Lola stop in her tracks. Lola faced him, as Austin continued, "I thought that would get your attention."


"His father?" Kyle said.

"That's right," Paul said, "It surprised me too."

"This was revenge?" Kyle said, "I suppose on some level that makes sense. The thing is Austin would have wanted to come after me. I wasn't the only one in that car."

"I was there too," Rachel said.

Taking Rachel's hand, Kyle said, "She was seriously hurt in that accident. Thankfully, she recovered, but things could have turned out much worse."

"I'm sorry you had both had to go through that," Paul said, "If it was you Kyle, he was after, it might not have mattered to him if anyone was with you."

"So, I was just collateral damage?" Rachel said.

"He's lucky he's already in jail," Kyle fumed. Looking at Paul he said, "He is still in jail, right?"

"Yes and he's going to stay there," Paul said.

"Which brings us to another question," Kyle said, "Why isn't Austin Travers still in jail? What possible reason did you have to let him go?"

"When Simon Black confessed to the accident, he made a compelling case for Austin," Paul said.

"I don't care how compelling it was, he held me and Summer at gunpoint," Kyle said, "He came so close to doing me in, that with a flick of his finger, I would not be here talking to you right now!"

"I understand your reservations," Paul said, "Simon Black informed us about Austin's history of panic attacks and erratic behavior arising from those episodes."

"That's no excuse for attempted murder!" Rachel said.

"Austin and his father are probably in on it together," Kyle said, "They will say anything to get you to let him out."

"We have obtained medical evidence of these panic attacks, that goes back to Austin's childhood," Paul said.

"So, that's it?" Kyle said, "Oh well, he panicked. Let's set him free?"

"The charges were downgraded to assault with malicious intent," Paul said, "No one made this decision lightly. There was much discussion and consideration. Austin is not free, he is being monitored, tracked, he's in therapy and knows if he makes one mistake he goes back to jail."

"So, basically he gets away with it," Kyle said.

"I'm sorry I don't have better news for you," Paul said "As far as your accident goes, the case is closed."


"If you are planning another confrontation with Kyle, you had better think again," Lola said.

"Easy," Austin said, "This isn't about me. It's about you."

"What is that supposed to mean?" Lola said.

"Have a seat and I will explain," Austin said, "You and I have a common interest."

"Doubtful," Lola said.

"Please just a few minutes?" Austin said, "This could change your life. For the better."

"My life is just fine, thank you," Lola said.

"Just the same, I can tell your curious," Austin said.

Lola momentarily closed her eyes and sighed. "Fine," she said, sitting across from Austin, "Make it quick. I have work to do."

"You say your life is fine," Austin said, "If we are being honest, it's missing one thing."

"And what is that?" Lola said.

"Kyle," Austin said, "I know how much you want him back."

"Yes, I still love him," Lola said, "But I've tried and he doesn't want me anymore. All he wants is his precious new bride."

"Rachel doesn't deserve him," Austin said.

"No she does not," Lola said.

"Kyle should be with you," Austin said.

"I've been saying that all along," Lola said, "Why am I telling you any of this?"

"Because I know how to make it happen," Austin said, "You can win Kyle back."

"What are you talking about?" Lola said.

"We can break them up," Austin said, "Free Kyle up for you. Between the three of us we can accomplish what we want."

"Three of us?" Lola said.

"You, me and Tess," Austin said.

"I hear your sister walked away and wants nothing more to do with you," Lola said.

"You have been talking to Mariah," Austin said, "That's not exactly true."

"I don't understand," Lola said.

"Can you keep a secret?" Austin said.

"If it's worth keeping," Lola said.

"Tess and I are not on the outs," Austin said, "The fight Mariah witnessed was all an act. You see it's best if everyone believes Tess and I are not in contact with each other."

"Why go to all the trouble?" Lola said.

"So, we can get a plan in motion and nobody suspects a thing," Austin said.

"What plan is this?" Lola said.

"Operation Abbott break up," Austin said, "We split up the so called happy couple and you are there to help Kyle pick up the pieces of his life, and Tess gets to be with Rachel."

"What do you get?" Lola said.

"That's where you come in," Austin said, "Tess and I take care of Kyle and Rachel. Then I've helped you get what you want. You will help me get what I want."

"Summer," Lola said.

"Exactly," Austin said.

"Why would you want someone like her?" Lola said, "You could do so much better. Anyone is better than Summer."

"I don't want anyone," Austin said, "I want her. She loved me once, she will again."

"I'm still not sure what you expect from me," Lola said.

"Break up Summer and Fen," Austin said.

"You've got to be kidding," Lola said, "How am I supposed do that?"

"Look at yourself," Austin said, "I'm sure you can distract Fen long enough to make him realize he doesn't really love Summer as much as he thinks."

"You want me to seduce him?" Lola said, "I am not that kind of woman."

"Do whatever it takes," Austin said, "You don't have to actually seduce someone to make them believe something happened between you. If you want some help, I'll be happy to work with you on this."

"I don't know," Lola said, "I wouldn't want to do anything to hurt Kyle."

"Do you want him back?" Austin said.

"I do," Lola said.

"Think of it," Austin said, "You could be in Kyle's arms again, be his every thought, be there for him, have him fall in love with you. The two of you could be married and spend the rest of your lives together."

"Do you really think so?" Lola said.

"Absolutely," Austin said, "Stick with me and sky's the limit."

"I have to get back to work," Lola said, standing up.

"Wait," Austin said, "Are you in?"

"I have to think about it," Lola said.

"Just remember," Austin said, "This stays between you, me and Tess."

Flustered, Lola turned and walked back into the kitchen.

Watching her walk away, Austin smiled and said, "Got'cha."


Kyle assisted Rachel to stand as they prepared to leave Society. Walking hand in hand, Kyle stopped when the sight of Austin caught his eye.

"Did you forget something?" Rachel said.

"No," Kyle said, staring in Austin's direction.

Following Kyle's gaze and realizing what he was looking at, Rachel said, "Let's just go."

"Not yet," Kyle said, "I need to take care of this."

"No, Kyle please don't fight with him again," Rachel said.

"I'm only going to talk to him," Kyle said, "Wait here, this will just take a few minutes."

"Kyle, I think it's better if you just leave him alone," Rachel said.

"Don't worry," Kyle said, before approaching Austin.

Kyle startled Austin as he popped into the chair across from him. Sighing, Austin said, "What do you want?"

"I was hoping you had time for a chat," Kyle said.

"Sure, why don't we have few beers while we're at it," Austin sarcastically said.

"No thanks," Kyle said.

"I know what this is about," Austin said, "I did not get on my knees and pledge allegiance to the new CEO."

"Whether you like or not," Kyle started, "I am your boss."

"You just love to rub that in," Austin said, "I'm surprised you don't make the employees genuflect if they see you walking by."

"I am not here to discuss work," Kyle said, "I have a question for you."

"I'm on the edge of my seat," Austin said.

"Why did you do it?" Kyle said.

"What have I done now?" Austin said.

"At the reception, you pulled a gun on me," Kyle said, "Nearly used it."

"Here's a tidbit you might not be aware of," Austin said, "I don't like you. Not in the least. I never had such an itchy trigger finger, in my life."

"You hate me that much," Kyle said.

"No," Austin said, "I hate you more."

"The feeling is mutual," Kyle said.

"Now that we have sorted that out," Austin said, "I am going to return to my little apartment and you can go back to your oversized house."

"You didn't answer my question," Kyle said, "Why did you do it?"

"You want the whole scenario?" Austin said, "I was outside, I saw Summer alone and thought it was the perfect time to let her know I am back and talk to her. Then, as usual, you came along and started to get all cozy with your ex."

"Summer was upset," Kyle said, "I was comforting her as a friend."

"That's when I decided to reveal myself," Austin said, "I tried to get you to leave me and Summer alone, but you refused. Yet again, you were in the way, so I took out my weapon."

"Here's what I cant' figure out," Kyle said, "If you actually intended to shoot me or if you wanted to scare me."

"Let me assure you," Austin said, "If I wanted you dead, you would be."

"Do you know what you have done to me?" Kyle said, "I've had nightmares, every night since you and I had that standoff. Images of you coming after me or people I love."

"That's too bad," Austin said, "I didn't think you were that fragile."

"I thought I was about to die," Kyle said, "On my wedding day. All the hopes and dreams my wife and I had. You were willing to take that away."

"But I didn't," Austin said, "That should tell you something."

Kyle gave a sarcastic laugh and said, "You never would have used the gun. It was all for show, an act."

"I didn't threaten you for fun," Austin said, "I panicked, okay? Now why don't you just go away, take care of your wife and let me care for mine."

"If you're talking about Summer, she is not your wife," Kyle said.

"We'll see," Austin said.

"Leave her alone," Kyle said, "Summer will never be with you, because she doesn't want to be."

"You know, it's fascinating," Austin said, "You married one woman and still seem to be in love with another."

"You don't know what you're talking about," Kyle said, standing up, "I don't know what I was thinking, coming over for a civil conversation."

"Anytime," Austin said.

Kyle gave a frustrated sigh, as he walked away.

Standing by the exit, Rachel impatiently waited for Kyle, when she heard Lola's voice say, "Leaving so soon?"

"It's time to go," Rachel said

"Don't rush off on my account," Lola said, "What's happened to your husband?"

"He will be right back," Rachel said.

As if on cue, Kyle appeared from around the corner. "Everything okay?" Rachel said.

"Yes, fine," Kyle said, "Lola, nice to see you."

"Good to see you," Lola said, "I hope you had an enjoyable evening."

"It was great, thanks," Kyle said. Putting his arm around Rachel, they proceeded to the exit.

"Goodnight," Lola said. Kyle half waived at her as they left the restaurant.

"Well?" Austin said, walking up behind her.

Watching Kyle and Rachel walk down the pathway, Lola said, "I'm in."


"I hope you are happy with the arrangement," Kyle said, into his phone, as he sat at his office desk, "If you have any questions don't hesitate to contact me…I look forward to working with you as well…yes…we'll talk soon."

Kyle concluded his call with a smile and a victory fist in the air, pausing when he realized Rachel was standing in the doorway.

"Hey," Kyle smiled, standing up and walking towards her, "How long have you been standing there?"

"Long enough to see my husband hard at work," Rachel said, "Sounds like you're having a successful day."

"I am on the verge of closing a huge deal," Kyle said, "Although it does mean a trip to Minneapolis in the next few days. It should only be an overnight stay."

"I miss when you go away," Rachel said, "But I know, it comes with the territory of CEO."

Noticing Rachel was holding one arm behind her back, Kyle said, "What are you hiding?"

"Nothing," Rachel said.

"You've got something back there," Kyle said.

"Back where?" Rachel said.

"Behind you," Kyle said.

Bringing her arm forward to reveal a small gift bag, she said, "Oh, you mean this." Kyle nodded. "While I was doing some shopping for Susie's birthday, I picked up something for you," she said, as she held it out to him.

"What's this for?" Kyle said, "It's not my birthday."

"Consider it a promotion gift," Rachel said.

"That's very sweet," Kyle said, "But you don't have to buy me a gift over this."

"Okay, if you don't want it…" Rachel teased, retracting her arm.

"Well, I…I didn't say that," Kyle said.

Rachel handed the bag over to him, which Kyle took with a smile. Leaning against the desk, Kyle rummaged through tissue paper, while Rachel watched in anticipation, hoping he would like what he received.

Kyle found a rectangular box, and removing the lid he smiled. Kyle lifted out a leather case, with the letters K. A. imprinted in the middle. Inside the case, sitting in velvet lining, were a gold pen and pencil set.

"Baby…" Kyle said, "This is beautiful." Noticing there were words imprinted on the pen, Kyle lifted it out and read, "Kyle Abbott, CEO." Shifting his eyes to Rachel, he said, "This is the nicest gift."

"There's more on the other side," Rachel said.

Kyle turned the pen over and smiling he read, "Jabot. Thank you so much. The nice set, my initials on the case. It's incredible, I love it."

"I love you," Rachel said, "Did I tell you how proud I am, of you?"

"I don't mind hearing it again," Kyle said, as he kissed her.

Suddenly bursting into the office, Summer said, "You won't believe this! I cannot work like this. Kyle, you have to fire that woman she is incompetent!"

"I was in the middle of something," Kyle said.

"Forgive me for interrupting," Summer said, "But we have a disaster on our hands."

"This sounds important," Rachel said, "I will see you later."

"Thanks again," Kyle smiled. Kyle was transfixed watching Rachel walk away.

"Kyle?" Summer said, "Hello?"

Focusing back on Summer, Kyle said, "Okay, tell me what has you so wound up."

"Look at this," Summer said, showing Kyle a spreadsheet on her tablet. "The columns have all been inverted. The data, the projections form the numbers, the marketing plan, it's all a mess!"

Reviewing Summer's screen and comparing them to his information, Kyle sighed and said, "You're right, the information is all incorrect."

"Now, will you fire her?" Summer said.

"I will talk to her," Kyle said, "But for now, I have to fix this."

"It's my department, we can fix it together," Summer said.

"This is going to take awhile," Kyle said.

"That doesn't matter," Summer said, "We will work as long as it takes."

A knock on the door, caused Kyle and Summer to look up and see Fen.

"Hey," Summer smiled.

"Hi," Fen said, "You look busy."

"Always," Summer said.

"Are you almost ready to go?" Fen said.

Summer paused and said, "Go?"

"To my cousin's birthday party?" Fen said.

"Shoot," Kyle said, momentarily closing his eyes, "Susie's party. I almost forgot."

"We were going to go remember?" Fen said.

"Yes," Summer said, "But we have all this to work on."

"I promised I'd be there," Kyle said, "I don't want to disappoint her."

"You know what?" Summer said, "You two go. I will stay and work on this. Susie won't miss me if I'm not there."

"You're going to make me go alone?" Fen said, "To spend hours with teenagers?"

"No reason you should miss the party," Kyle said, "Should be fun."

"But what about all this?" Summer said.

"I say we all go and I'll come back in a couple hours and work on it," Kyle said.

"See? Problem solved," Fen said.

"Okay," Summer said, "If you're sure, Kyle."

"Positive," Kyle said.

Fen followed Summer, out of the office, who wistfully looked back at Kyle, behind his desk. While the party might be a fun distraction, Summer would have preferred to stay at the office with Kyle, working as long and as late as possible.