Author's Note: As always, my sincere thanks to everybody who have read, saved in favorites, set to alert or commented on 'Till You Make It'. I really do appreciate it. Jason will slowly now enter the story but I must confess I am having trouble writing him; hopefully over time that will change. At the end of this chapter I leave you all a little clue of what chapter 6 will bring.
Happy Reading and I hope you enjoy!
Valerie
Chapter 5: Spreading the News
There were many times in Kristina's life where nerves never stepped in to play a role. This was not one of those moments. Butterflies danced in the pit of her stomach as she seated herself across the desk where the manager of Java Junkie sat. She arrived at the café with the intent of getting hired; nothing was going to stop her. The two employees that greeted her when she walked through the door were nice but tried to just hand her an application. Kristina accepted it with a thank you, introduced herself and politely told them she would prefer to see the manager herself. It was the girl who walked away, presumably to relay her message, leaving the man to help the customer who had walked in. Five minutes later she was led to a door that she had not noticed before. It was on the same side where she sat with Elizabeth. The girl knocked twice and at the commanding 'come in' she opened the door for Kristina then was gone.
Four things jumped out at Kristina immediately. The first was the nameplate that read 'Vickie Hanson', the second was the extremely messy desk it sat on; the third were the boxes lined against the wall filled with pictures, books and objects that once decorated the shelf and bare walls around her and the fourth was the manger herself. Vickie Hanson was an older lady with grayish blonde hair wearing an annoyed expression on her face that made her look unattractive; though she was a pretty woman. If Kristina wasn't absolutely sure that she had never met the woman before, she would have wondered what it was she did to make Ms. Hanson scowl at her. She must be bitter in life. That was the only reason she could come up with.
"So Miss Davis, I'm looking for somebody to work the six to twelve shifts, Monday through Saturday with one weekly scheduled day off", was how she started the conversation; not bothering to introduce herself. "Is that something you can do?"
"Yes it is." Kristina answered as she seated herself.
"And are you available to start on Monday?"
"Yes I am."
"Then you will report to Kevin Brennan on Monday morning. He is the other employee who will be working that shift with you." Kristina was confused. Surely there was more to an interview process than this. It couldn't have been that easy, could it have? "Once Kevin feels you have the capability to open on your own then it will be between the two of you which day you each have off." Apparently so. Not that she would complain. Kristina was beyond excited that she now had a job; she did everything she could to remain still as her new boss explained the dress code and what and when she would be getting paid. She watched as Ms. Hanson opened up one of the drawers of the desk and pulled out a manila folder labeled 'Employee Packet' and handed it to her along with a pen. "Mellissa or Darren will show you to a table you can sit at to fill these out. Once you are done just leave it with one of them. If you have any questions just knock on my door." The invitation did not sound very sincere and apparently was a dismissal because the woman turned her back and began to dust one of the shelves.
I guess Kevin wasn't exaggerating after all.
Kristina just shrugged her rudeness off, stood up and walked out of the office. It was Darren who wasn't busy when she walked back up to the counter. He introduced himself as he showed her to one of the three rounded tables that lined up against the back side wall on the opposite side of the room where she and Elizabeth sat. She thanked him, sat down and began filling out all the paperwork; including the application. Kristina was only halfway through when her phone rang.
"Hello." Kristina answered.
"Krissy, hey, I was calling about dinner tonight." Her brother greeted her.
"I hadn't forgotten. What time do you want me there?"
"Actually it's been cancelled."
"Why?"
"Abby is not feeling well."
"Really?" Kristina said in a voice that clearly told him she did not believe him.
"Yes really."
"Or is it that your girlfriend just doesn't want me there?" She couldn't help but ask sarcastically.
"Abby hurt her left hand and had to have stitches so she is unable to host any guests right now." Michael sounded annoyed with her.
"Sure." Kristina rolled her eyes.
"Your attitude towards my girlfriend is getting really old." Her brother actually snapped at her. "You know what forget about it; we can do dinner another time. I will call you."
"Fine." Before she could finish the word her brother hung up on her. She stared at her phone with a frown before laying it on the table. That bothered her as well as the entire conversation and there was one person to blame for that. Elizabeth. Her words had more of an impact on Kristina then she realized because she was actually feeling bad for making light of Abby's injury. How serious was it if she needed stitches? Obviously serious enough to cancel dinner tonight.
When Kristina was finished filling out her paperwork, she took the folder up to the counter and handed it to Mellissa who smiled and, along with Darren, welcomed her to Java Junkie. She thanked them both. As soon as she was in her car she began to wonder when would be a good time to tell her parents. It didn't have to be right away; it was just Wednesday so she could wait a few days, but she really wanted to share her news with someone. The first person that came to mind was her older sister. Kristina made the call.
"Hello."
"Hey." She greeted.
"Hey you." Sam greeted back.
"Are you busy? I was hoping to stop by and visit."
"I actually have somewhere to be in an hour. Did you need something?"
"No I'm good. I just have some good news I wanted to share with you in person and wanted you to be the first to know." At least good news to her; she hoped Sam felt the same way.
"Well, where I'm going is close by and I don't have to leave for another forty five minutes. If you're not too far then why don't you swing by?"
"Okay. Are you at home or Jason's?"
"Where do you think?" Her sister laughed.
"Jason's it is." Kristina laughed with her, "I'll be there shortly."
As she drove, Kristina's thoughts wandered back to her conversation with Michael and his relationship with Abby. Any other time their phone call and the way he hung up on her wouldn't have bothered her but it did now. Not once had she ever considered that her attitude towards Abby would come between her and her brother. Right now it feels like it could and that scared Kristina. She considered stopping by their apartment and checking in on how Abby was doing; maybe even taking Elizabeth's advice and try to know her better. Or at least make an attempt. That way if it doesn't work out, like she knows it won't, then she can say she tried. Michael would appreciate the effort.
At the penthouse it was Sam who opened the door and greeted her when Kristina arrived; Jason was nowhere in sight. Her sister pulled her into a hug and led her to the couch where she sat with her. "So, how are you? How's your summer starting off?" Sam asked.
"I am doing really well and my summer is off to a great start."
"Sounds like it. Sooo..." Her sister ginned at her. "What good news do you have to share with me?"
"I got a job." Kristina couldn't help but squeal out.
"Really?" Kristina nodded her head. "Oh my God!" Sam sounded excited as she pulled her in for another hug. "Where are you working? When do you start? I wasn't even aware you were looking for a job."
"To be honest, I hadn't even thought about it till yesterday. But suddenly it popped in my head when I saw how busy Kevin was..."
"Kevin? Is he friend of yours?"
"We just met yesterday. I guess you can say he is now my co-worker. He is going to be the one to train me."
"Look at your smile." Sam grabbed hold of her hand. "I like seeing you happy."
"I am, well at least about this."
"So go on, tell me about your new job." She encouraged.
"It's this small café I discovered yesterday. It is called Java Junkie. They sell coffee, muffins – well you get the idea. The atmosphere there is the best thing about the place. They have these comfortable couches and armchairs for customers to sit in and soft jazz music plays overhead. "
"I don't think I've heard of this place."
"Which is why I like it. I know I could probably work at Kelly's or somewhere familiar but I like the fact that I won't be seeing anybody I know."
"I can understand that." Her sister smiled at her. "I think this is a good idea."
"Good, so then you will have no problem telling mom that when you're with me when I tell her." Sam began to chuckle.
"And here I thought I was the first to know because you loved me the best." Her sister teased mockingly.
"I don't know where you got that idea." Kristina joked back. "I just need you there to help calm mom down when she begins hyperventilating." This brought both of them to laughter.
"I can do that. When were you planning on telling her?"
"In a few days." Kristina answered. "I figured I would let her know first then when she jumps on board I can get her to help me tell my dad." Sam just shook her head with a smile.
"How do you think Sonny will take the news?"
"What news?" Jason interrupted before she could answer Sam's question.
Her sister turned around and watched with her as he walked down the last few steps and joined them on the couch. Just like she knew would happen, Kristina was now seeing Jason in a new light. Not necessarily bad, but definitely different. She couldn't help but think of Elizabeth and trying to picture the two of them together. Nope, she didn't see it. Of course it didn't help that she could never recall seeing the two of them in the same room. Not to say it had never happened; for all she knew the two may have and Kristina just didn't remember seeing them.
"That Krissy here got a job." Sam answered.
"Your father doesn't know?"
"Not yet, which is another reason why I came to you both first."
"What other reason?" Her sister asked. Jason looked skeptical.
"Well I know my Dad is going to be concerned for my safety and will want to have the place checked out. I know it has to be done because of who I am; hate it, but I won't fight it. The thing is I don't want my Dad visiting me at my job." Kristina made sure to make eye contact with Jason at this point. "And I would prefer if it was you that checked the place out before I start on Monday that way you can relay back to him that everything is good and everybody is happy."
"I don't see why not." Sam was supportive.
"Why don't you want your father to visit you at work?" Jason asked. I am not ready for anybody to discover my friendship with Elizabeth just yet. Kristina silently answered.
"Nobody wants their parents, let alone their father stopping in at their workplace." And there was that too. "Am I right Krissy?" Sam asked.
"Right."
"And you prefer I check the place out because...?"
"You know how to be conspicuous." Kristina answered honestly.
"True." Sam added. "Sonny draws too much attention to himself." Kristina nodded her head in agreement.
"And I'm not saying he can't ever come visit me while I'm working. I want to share this with all of you but I'm just going to be starting off and I'm already nervous as it is. I don't need the added pressure."
"Jason, do this for her." Sam leaned her head against his shoulder and looked up at him. "Please."
"Yeah, please." Kristina jumped in.
"Okay, you both can stop." Jason smiled at them. "I will check this place out myself but only if you promise to tell your father about this job."
"I planned on it."
"We just wanted to tell my mother first." Sam added then looked at her watch. "And I have to really get going if I'm going to make it on time to meet Lucky." Her sister's words caught her attention. Kristina watched as she stood up and looked down at her. "Call me when you are ready to tell mom."
"I will." Kristina answered as she stood up to hug her sister goodbye.
"Be careful." Jason said as he walked Sam to the door.
"I will." Sam relayed back softly.
"Call if you need me." Kristina smiled as the two kissed but it quickly disappeared after Jason closed the door and turned around with crossed arms to look at her with suspicion on his face.
"Now that your sister is gone why don't you tell me why you really don't want your father visiting you at your new job?"
"I am telling the truth." Just not all of it. Kristina silently added. "I promise I'm not lying, okay." She stood up with her purse, ready to leave.
"Then you're leaving something out so sit down and tell me the rest." He clearly wasn't going to let this or her go till she told him something. Kristina sat back down. She didn't want him or any of her family finding out about Elizabeth; at least not yet. But what could she tell Jason to back him off. Nothing. After all this was Jason. "You can trust me."
"I know I can. And I do, really, but..." She trailed off.
"Are you in any kind of trouble?"
"No. Why would you think that?"
"Do you need money?"
"What?" Now Kristina was confused.
"Is that why you need a job?"
"Getting a job is just a step closer to gaining my independence." Kristina began explaining. "I am starting college in a few months and can't expect to live with my mom forever. Soon I'm going to get my own place and I want to be the one to pay my way in life. Not my parents. Like I told a friend of mine; everybody is always telling me to grow up, so, this is me taking that first step." Jason looked at her with admiration, which encouraged her to continue on. "I would think this would please both you and my Dad. I am accepting that my life is different than others and that I have to be extra cautious. So even though I hate it, I'm here doing the right thing. I'll give you everything you need, my manager's name as well as my co-worker. All I ask is that it be you and not my Dad. Can you please understand that?" Jason's arms uncrossed and he walked over to re-join her on the couch.
"I need everything." Kristina beamed a smile in his direction.
Jason had her write all the information he needed down on a piece of paper. When she was finished he walked her to the door. "I'll do my best to encourage your father away from your workplace." Jason promised as he opened the door for her.
"Thank you Jason."
"Anytime."
As she was sliding behind the wheel of her car, Abby pushed back into her thoughts; as well as Elizabeth's words. They replayed in her head until she decided to go ahead with the plan she thought of earlier. With the exception of having a guard put on her, things were going great for her today so she would take advantage of that and stop by Michael and Abby's place to check in on her; maybe with a 'get well gift' too. Her brother would appreciate the sentiment and forget all about their conversation earlier. It sounded good to Kristina and with that in mind, she started her car.
Kristina made a quick stop to buy Abby a small basket of multi-flavored coffees and a gift bag to place it in. She debated on getting her a card as well but declined on doing so. When she arrived at their building, she quickly got out and made it up to their apartment wanting to get this over with as soon as possible. She was about to knock but stopped when she saw it was partly opened and the sound of somebody crying could be heard on the other side. Kristina double checked to make sure she wasn't at the wrong apartment. She wasn't. If the two were arguing then she really didn't want to get in the middle of it; especially if it meant the possibility of a breakup. But they could be in some kind of trouble. That thought had her pulling her phone out and getting Jason's number ready in case she needed to call for help. What she found inside was not what Kristina was expecting. Abby sat on the couch dabbing her eyes with a tissue paper as she cried. Her brother was nowhere in sight.
"Abby." Kristina softly spoke the woman's name so she wouldn't startle her. The gesture was unsuccessful; Abby jumped up in freight but sighed in relief when she saw who it was.
"Kristina." She was clutching her hand to her chest. "You scared me."
"I didn't mean too. I saw the door was opened and was concerned."
"Oh." Abby wiped at her eyes. "No, everything is fine. What are you doing here?"
"Michael told me you hurt yourself." Kristina looked at the bandaged left hand. "I just wanted to see how you were doing."
"Why?" Abby seemed confused. "I mean thank you. That's really thoughtful of you to do but to be quite honest I am a little surprised."
"You mean because I don't like you very much."
"Wow, don't sugarcoat it now." If Abby was trying to be sarcastic, she didn't succeed. The red rimmed eyes ruined the effect. "Michael isn't here."
"Oh." Kristina was counting on her brother's presence. "That's fine. As I said I'm here to see you."
"Well in that case can I get you something to drink?"
"No I'm good." Kristina closed the door securely and made herself comfortable on the couch. "So, why are you sitting here alone crying?"
"Not that it's really any of your business but my hand was hurting and it's too soon to take another painkiller." Kristina did not believe the lie.
"Where is my brother?"
"He had an errand to run." Abby's shifty eyes had her wondering if she was lying about that too.
"What errands?" Kristina called her on her bluff.
"I didn't ask."
"Huh." She detected trouble in paradise and a smile broke out on her face. "Or maybe he is just using that as an excuse to get away." Kristina began piecing things together. "I think Michael may be finally seeing the light where you're concerned."
"Why did you really come here? It sure as hell wasn't to see how I'm doing."
"Actually it was but I'm thinking it was a waste of my time."
"Then by all means, please don't let me stop you from showing yourself out."
"Whatever." Kristina knew this was a bad idea. "I can't wait for the day my brother kicks you to the curb."
"You can leave now." That sounded like a good idea to her but when she opened the door she found an elderly woman about to knock.
"Oh, hello." The woman offered a friendly smile to Kristina.
"Hi." She slowly replied back.
"Abby, are you okay?" She asked Abby when she saw her.
"I am fine Violet."
"Are you sure? My husband said he heard you two arguing again." Again?
"It was just a little disagreement." She could hear Abby was trying to be vague with her answers. Whether it was to placate her neighbor or keep Kristina in the dark; whatever the reason, she no longer found a need to rush out of here.
"Those little disagreements are occurring frequently." Hearing this brought a smile to Kristina's face.
"It's nothing to be concerned about. All couples go through a difficult period." Abby's comment widened Kristina's smile.
"Well it's good to see you have a friend here for moral support dear."
"This is Michael's sister." The sharp glance the woman gave her stopped Kristina from extending her hand out or saying anything.
"Then maybe you could talk to that brother of yours and tell him there are proper ways to talk to a young lady."
"Excuse me..." Kristina began to interrupt but the women ignored her and kept on going.
"Because raising ones voice is not the correct way; neither is belittling them."
"Thank you Violet for checking on me, but as you can see I am fine." Abby jumped in before Kristina could give the old woman a few choice words.
"If you are fine then what happened to your hand dearie?"
"My hand?" Abby was confused but Kristina wasn't and she was absolutely livid.
"My brother would never lay a hand on a woman."
"Of course he wouldn't." Abby agreed, sounding horrified. "Michael and I may have our arguments but he would never raise his hand."
"I'm sorry." The neighbor was quick to apologize. "Obviously I was wrong to suggest such a thing but can you honestly blame me for thinking it. I don't know your young man well enough to know better. What I do know is that he has been making you cry an awful lot and this has me concerned. If anything happened to you and I did nothing to help then it would have made me feel so very terrible." Kristina wanted to stay angry but how could she when she understood the best where Abby's neighbor was coming from. If it were Kristina and all she kept hearing were two people constantly arguing then see a bandage on the woman she would jump to the same conclusion. The question that troubled her mind was how exactly was Michael treating Abby?
"You are kind Violet and it is sweet that you are looking out for me."
"Well somebody has to. I don't see you with anybody else but that man of yours." Now that Kristina thought about it, so hadn't she. Didn't Abby have any friends? Surely she stayed in contact with girls she used to 'work' with. But then again - maybe not.
"Well, thank you again for checking on me."
"You're welcome my dear." Violet turned her gaze on Kristina. "I am sorry if I upset you Miss." All she could do was nod her head.
After Abby's neighbor left, Kristina stood there staring at her. No matter how much she disliked someone she wouldn't wish what Keifer put her through on anybody. Though she didn't believe her brother would ever lay a hand on a woman, Kristina couldn't help but think back to times when Michael was a very angry person and she felt threatened enough to take a step back away from him. Was Abby feeling threatened too? "What's been going on?" This time Kristina asked her with actual concern.
"Nothing..."
"No really. What is going on between you and Michael?"
"It's just as I told my neighbor, we've been going through a rough time."
"I know Michael is my brother and you and I are not exactly friends here but none of that matters if my brother is hurting you; I would understand, especially after what I went through." Abby stared at her in surprise.
"That is the nicest thing you've ever said to me but please believe me when I say Michael has never laid a hand on me and he never will. It hurt your brother what Keifer put you through. He felt helpless that he couldn't help you." Kristina believed her but something was wrong. Something more than just a couple spat.
"He did help." Kristina shared hoping it would encourage Abby to open up to her. "My whole family did just by being there for me."
"Michael's a good guy..." It sounded like Abby wanted to say something else but instead released a long tired sigh.
"I'm suddenly thirsty. Can I get a glass of water?" Kristina decided to drop the subject – for now.
"Sure." Abby walked into the kitchen and pulled out a bottle from the refrigerator. When she handed it to her, Kristina realized she was still clutching the gift bag.
"What's in there?" Abby asked noticing it herself.
"Actually it's for you; a 'get well' gift." Again, Abby was surprised.
"Really?" At Kristina's nod she smiled and accepted the bag. When she pulled out the basket and saw what was inside it she began to laugh.
"Okay." That was an unusual response. "What's so funny?" She had to ask because she couldn't see it.
"Please don't take this the wrong way...but the gift."
"I don't understand."
"My hand was hurt yesterday when I tripped and fell holding the coffee pot."
"Ouch. That had to have hurt."
"It did." Abby sat down and indicated for her to do the same.
"Wait, so that means you have no..."
"Coffee pot, yep." She finished as Kristina sat next to her. "I wrapped it up in a towel and headed to General Hospital. The nurse who helped me was really nice. Elizabeth didn't laugh when I told her how I got hurt."
"Yeah, a lot of them..." Kristina stopped mid-sentence. "Elizabeth, as in Webber?"
"I didn't get her last name."
"Petite woman with long brown hair and a soft spoken voice."
"That's her." Abby confirmed. "You two know each other?"
"A little and I agree with you, she is really nice." Kristina quickly changed the subject before she could ask her any questions. "Was the pot at least empty?"
"Thankfully it was. Now I need to buy me another one as soon as possible."
"Well you don't have to worry about buying any coffee." Kristina joked.
"No, I don't. Thank you. I really appreciate it."
"Enough to tell me what is going on between you and my brother?" She couldn't help but try again.
"No. So please drop this." Abby stood up again and walked around to stand behind the couch. "And to be quite honest, can you blame me for not wanting to confide in you. You haven't been very nice to me."
"True." Kristina admitted. "But in case you haven't caught on here yet, I am trying to change that."
"Only after thinking Michael might be abusing me. A conclusion, I might add, you didn't come to until well after my neighbor arrived concerned for my well being. Before that you were quite happy to hear your brother and I were having problems."
"True again." Kristina sighed.
"I just don't trust you. And I'm not saying it to be cruel."
"I know." Kristina knew she wouldn't get anything out of Abby today.
"But if you're sincere here...I mean it, no motives. Then I would like you to get to know me better so you can see that I am not the bad person you make me out to be and maybe one day I can trust you enough to confide in you." Could Kristina do that? It was not even fifteen minutes ago when she was celebrating the demise of Abby's relationship with her brother.
"Okay." Kristina decided.
"Really?" Abby sounded doubtful.
"Yes." Kristina laughed. "Well, I guess if we're going to try being friends then let me tell you my exciting news."
"And that would be?"
"I got a job today." The more she said it the better it sounded.
"Oh wow, congratulations."
"Thank you."
"Where will you be working?"
"At a small coffee house." Kristina smirked at Abby who responded with a laugh. "I start on Monday."
"Have you told your family yet?"
"I told Sam and Jason earlier and plan on telling my parents soon." She answered. "Can you not tell my brother about it? I would like to share the news myself."
"Sure." Abby promised. "What made you decide to get a job?"
"I figured it was time. I can't live off my parents forever; not if I want to one day get my own place."
"Oh so now you're thinking of moving out of your mom's house."
"Well obviously not right away but as soon as I can, then yeah."
"Good for you." Abby looked at her with respect which made Kristina feel good. "I think this is a positive step you made for yourself and I wish you all the luck."
"Thank you. How are things going for you at ELQ?"
"I love working there." Abby all but gushed out but then the expression on her face changed. "But I don't think I will be there for much longer."
"Why is that?"
"Michael didn't like it so he quit yesterday and is now working at one of your father's warehouse."
"He is what!" Kristina exclaimed loudly. "How could my father let him anywhere near his business?"
"I don't know."
"I will have to call Jason then."
"Actually it was Jason who gave him the job."
"Do you know if Carly knows?" Kristina asked though she knew the answer to that. If it was Jason who gave Michael the job then Carly would be okay with it.
"She does. He told her yesterday when he was visiting her and Josslyn." Just as she knew.
"Why are you concerned for your own job?"
"Edward only hired me because he wanted Michael there and felt that I would be able to influence him to stay on."
"So now that my brother is gone, you fear Mr. Quartermaine will fire you." Abby nodded her head. "He hasn't yet so maybe he won't."
"I am hoping."
"Instead of stressing yourself over this why don't you just go up and ask him directly that way you will know."
"I almost did yesterday but I chickened out and when he asked if I was okay, I lied and told him I wasn't feeling well. He sent me home early. And as for today, when he heard about my injury he gave me the day off."
"Those don't sound like actions from someone who wants to fire you."
"It doesn't; does it?" Abby sounded like she hadn't thought of that before.
"No it doesn't so stop worrying and just relax. And if you are still concerned then just ask him."
"I will. Thanks Kristina."
"You're welcome." Kristina had a feeling that Abby and Michael were fighting over her brother working at their father's warehouse. This probably worried Abby; she knew it worried her.
The rest of Kristina's day was spent at home. That evening Michael called and thanked her for visiting Abby. The two talked for a few minutes before she told him about her new job. He was supportive of her decision. She tried to bring up the subject of his new job but Michael was having none of that and she was forced to drop the subject. They ended the call with a promise to reschedule dinner for another time. Later that night, when she was alone in her room, Kristina sent a text message to Elizabeth on impulse.
From Kristina: How is Jake feeling?
From Elizabeth: Better. How was your day?
From Kristina: Really well. I took your advice and talked to Michael's girlfriend.
From Elizabeth: How did it go?
From Kristina: Good. I will tell you about it over coffee.
From Elizabeth: Can't wait.
From Kristina: Good night.
From Elizabeth: Good night Kristina.
From Elizabeth: If you have no plans tomorrow you can stop by. It will just be me and the boys. Call me and I can give you directions.
That last text came an hour later when she was tucked in bed for the night. It brought a smile to Kristina's face and had her eager for tomorrow to begin.
The phone call from Lucky cancelling his weekend with the boys did not come as a surprise for Elizabeth; after the conversation with Siobhan she was expecting it. What she did not expect him to do was turn around and ask if he could pick them up after breakfast to spend the day with them. Though surprised, she was quick to agree and when she told Cameron and Jake the news they were excited. Lucky arrived a short time later and just like that Elizabeth had an entire day free to enjoy her day off. It had been so long since that last happened and Elizabeth planned on making the most of it. The first thing that popped in her mind to do today was paint but then she remembered she invited Kristina over. She did not know when the young girl would come over, and if she still was. The need to paint was too strong for Elizabeth to ignore so she decided she would leave that decision up to Kristina whether she wanted to keep her company while she painted or come over at a later time.
"Hello." Kristina answered when she called.
"Good morning." Elizabeth greeted.
"I wish." She sounded agitated.
"Rough start?" Elizabeth asked.
"More like an annoying one." Kristina mumbled.
"What time did you want to come over?"
"Now, if that's okay with you?"
"What would you say to joining me at my studio? I'm in the mood to paint."
"I would love that." Kristina quickly rushed out.
"And afterwards maybe we can come back to my place and I can make us some lunch."
"What about your boys?"
"Lucky has them till this evening."
"I am sorry I won't be meeting them today."
"You will on Saturday."
"I can't wait and as for today – it sounds good. Where is your studio?"
"Meet up with me at Java Junkie so I can get me a cup of coffee and you can follow me there."
"Okay. What time?"
"Is thirty minutes okay with you?"
"Sure. I'll see you soon."
Elizabeth quickly flew up the stairs to change into the jeans she usually wore when she painted and a white t-shirt. After grabbing her purse, phone and keys - she was on her way. When she pulled up in the parking lot she saw Kristina had already arrived and she was not alone. Ethan stood in front of her, as well as an attractive man she had never seen before.
"Ethan." Elizabeth greeted Lucky's half brother. "How are you?"
"I can't complain. How about you and the boys?" He asked in return.
"We are doing well. Cam and Jake are with Lucky."
"I am sure my brother has a fun filled day planned ahead. I am sorry to miss them; maybe one day I can stop over to see them." Elizabeth couldn't help it; she had to smirk. Somehow she didn't think Ethan's sudden interest to visit her home had anything to do with her or the boys but rather the girl who he now stood close beside, a move that occurred when Elizabeth joined them. The man she did not know was giving her a look that showed he clearly thought the same thing. He smiled when he noticed her staring at him questionably.
"Ms. Webber." He startled her by greeting Elizabeth by name. "My name is Ray Alvarez." He introduced with his hand held out.
"Elizabeth Webber." She shook his hand still a little hesitant.
"Ray is my jailer." Kristina added with a hint of sarcasm.
"I am her guard." Ray corrected; humor on his face.
"Elizabeth and I are going in to get us coffee." Kristina clearly wanted to get away. She wondered what was happening for Sonny to assign a bodyguard to his daughter. By the girl's reaction, this was a new development that she was not happy with.
"I was planning on getting one too. Why don't I go in and buy one for all of us." Ethan suggested.
"Actually I would like to say hi to Kevin and I know he would love to see Kristina."
"Who is Kevin?" Ethan was a little too quick to ask.
"He works here." Kristina answered before Elizabeth could. "Not only that but starting Monday he will be my co-worker."
"You're going to be working here?" Elizabeth was happily surprised.
"I got the job yesterday." She could see how excited Kristina was.
"Congratulations." Elizabeth hugged her.
"That is good news love." Ethan's endearment surprised Elizabeth but by the look on Kristina's face; it didn't her. He must use it often.
"Thank you." Kristina's face was radiant in happiness.
It was decided that Elizabeth and Kristina would go in to buy coffee for everybody. Ray gave them the money to pay for everything. She was about to decline but Kristina accepted it and together they walked inside. Kevin greeted them and took their orders. He was disappointed they wouldn't be staying but changed his tune when he learned he would no longer be working alone and who he would be working with. When they rejoined the men outside, Elizabeth was unsure whether she should extend an invitation to Ethan to join them. Thankfully he announced he had things to do and had to get going. After saying his goodbyes, he turned to Kristina and threw her an 'I will see you later' parting before walking to his car. The ride to the studio was not long and soon she unlocked the door and let her guest in.
"I've passed by here so many times but I never knew what this building was." Kristina was looking around the studio.
"I know it's a little small and not to mention dusty." Elizabeth apologized for the state of the place. "It's been awhile since I've been here."
"It's fine. I love it." Kristina assured her. "How long have you had this place?"
"My grandmother rented it for me when I was seventeen."
"You've had it for that long?"
"I have."
"What happened to your old paintings?" Kristina had asked her this once before but Elizabeth was unsure how to answer the question since the reason was tied in with Jason.
"I went through a bad time and unfortunately I took it out on my paintings by destroying them." That was the truth but what she purposely left out was the why.
"What about since then?" Again her reasons for not painting had to do with Jason.
"I never seemed to find the passion to paint – till now." She answered as she looked down at a blank canvas she didn't remember leaving prepared before. Picking it up Elizabeth noticed a stack of them behind the one. Where did these come from?
"What's wrong?" Kristina asked seeing the confusion on her face that she knew she wore.
"I don't remember preparing these the last time I was in here." Elizabeth answered. "In fact I know I didn't."
"Maybe somebody else did it for you."
"The only people I know who can do this are Lucky and..." Elizabeth immediately clamped up before she could say Jason's name.
"Maybe Lucky did it." Kristina suggested.
"No, he doesn't have a key to this place." Unlike someone else she knew. "You know it's been so long and I probably did do it but just forgot." She lied.
"So what are you planning on painting?" Kristina seemed to buy it.
"I have no idea but while I figure it out why don't you tell me why Sonny put a guard on you." Elizabeth suggested as she opened the window and began mixing her paint.
"It wasn't my father; it was Johnny." She was surprised by this.
"What does your father say about that?"
"He doesn't know." Again Elizabeth was surprised.
"Is that really a wise decision? I understand Johnny is your friend but Sonny is your father and you have to respect that."
"Ray is not going to be on me forever just until this small thing that came up blows over." Kristina was vague with her answer which piqued her curiosity but she chose not to probe for details.
For the next few hours Elizabeth painted as she listened to Kristina talk about her family, Ethan and the shaky relationship she has with her father. It had been awhile since she had any pleasantries with the man she once considered a friend. Her friendship with Sonny began drifting apart when she married his brother Ric and things never were the same after that. Sure there were brief moments here and there that it looked like things could be getting back on track between them but nothing more came of it; instead there were a couple of conversations where Sonny skirted around the fact that he was not a fan of Elizabeth's relationship with Jason. That made it hard for her to mend their friendship.
"I wish you were my nurse when I was in the hospital after Kiefer hurt me." Kristina threw out unexpectedly.
"I wish I was too." Elizabeth stopped painting and looked at the girl sitting on her couch. "Maybe I could've helped you through it."
"Have you helped many like me who went through what I did?"
"There were a few but..." Elizabeth paused as she laid her paintbrush down and wiped her hands on a towel she brought before joining Kristina on the couch. "I understand what it's like to be hurt badly."
"Did you go through the same thing I did?"
"No, I was raped." Kristina gasped.
"I'm sorry."
"It was a long time ago."
"How old were you?"
"Fifteen." Tears filled Kristina's eyes and Elizabeth grabbed hold of her hand. "Hey, I made it through."
"Was it by someone you knew?"
"No. The man was a stranger. It was Valentine's Day and I was at the park sitting alone on a bench that night. The ground was covered with snow; it was so beautiful. I was supposed to go to the school dance with Lucky but at the last minute he decided to go with my sister Sarah. To be fair, we were only going as friends but I had such a huge crush on him so when he canceled on me I lied and told him another boy had asked me. I tried to get out from going at all but my Grams gave me her bracelet to borrow. It was a gift from my late grandfather. She really was excited about the whole thing so I put on the red dress she bought for me and the bracelet and went to the movies to pass the time. Afterwards I made the mistake of cutting through the park and that's when a man grabbed me from behind and dragged me into the bush." Elizabeth could still remember that night with perfect clarity. That was something she would never forget, no matter how much time passed by.
"Did the police ever catch the guy?"
"They did. He is in jail, hopefully for a long time." Elizabeth didn't get into details about how she learned Tom Baker was the one who raped her. The two fell into silence, each lost in their own painful memories. What happened to Elizabeth would forever remain in her memory but she had healed and moved on; hopefully Kristina will do the same.
"What are you painting anyways?" Kristina broke the silence.
"Come on." Elizabeth stood up. "I'll show you." She watched as Kristina did the same before walking the few steps it took to reach the canvas. When she saw the picture Kristina's mouth dropped open. Elizabeth hoped she liked it.
"That's me." She was staring at the canvas in awe.
"That's what you looked like when you were talking about your family." Elizabeth said softly from behind her.
"It's beautiful Elizabeth." Kristina smiled as she stared down at her own face. "Thank you."
"No - thank you." She looked at Elizabeth with confusion. "It was you who inspired me to paint again and so it was only fitting that you were the subject of my painting."
"Me." She was surprised. "I don't understand; how did I inspire you?"
"For some reason you evoked emotions out from me and suddenly I wanted to paint again." Elizabeth admitted honestly. "It's been my boys and all work for me and though I love all three, it can be lonely at times. Then you walked into Java Junkie and with you brought Ethan and Johnny and suddenly I don't feel so alone anymore." Kristina stood there just smiling at Elizabeth. "I know I haven't spent much time with all three of you but I get the feeling that will change and I find myself excited about that."
"I feel the same way." Kristina confessed. "I told Ethan and Johnny that I felt comfortable talking to you and would love for you and me to be friends."
"Well my new friend how about I clean up this mess and we get us some lunch." Elizabeth suggested. "It's almost twelve thirty and I am hungry."
"Sounds good to me."
They decided to pick up something from Kelly's and take it back to her house. Elizabeth was glad they didn't run into anybody there or along the way. When they made it back to the house the two enjoyed a nice lunch filled with laughter as she shared stories with Kristina of times with Emily, Nikolas and Lucky – the four musketeers.
"It sounds like you all had a great friendship." Kristina commented.
"We did." Elizabeth agreed.
"So tonight you're getting together with Olivia, right?"
"Yeah, were meeting up at Jake's at eight."
"Olivia is nice - tough - but I like her."
"You know her well?" She asked but then remembered she was Dante's mother. "Of course you do; her son is your brother." Kristina laughed with her.
"There is that and she once dated Johnny so I ran into her often when I was visiting him at his place." Elizabeth could hear there was more to that story. "What are you planning on wearing tonight?" Kristina suddenly asked her.
"Why?" Elizabeth was confused why it would matter.
"The answer should be obvious." Kristina rolled her eyes. "You are single, not to mention hot and there will no doubt be available men there tonight." This made Elizabeth laugh.
"I am not going there to meet men Kristina."
"You never know what tonight may have in store for you Elizabeth, so don't argue with me and promise you will make an effort."
"Okay, I promise." She looked at Kristina. "You sure are a small pushy little thing." Kristina smiled as though she was given a compliment.
"Oh believe me, that was nothing." Elizabeth just shook her head in wonder. She had a feeling her quiet life was about to change now that Kristina was in it.
There were many things Jason Morgan was good at; knowing when somebody was hiding something from him was one of them and his gut was telling him that was what Kristina Corinthos Davis was doing. After leaving his penthouse yesterday, he had one of his men follow her to make sure she hadn't gotten herself into something she shouldn't be in. The likeliness of that being true was high since it was Kristina but his man called back and told him all she did was visit Michael before going home where she stayed for the rest of the evening. When Jason learned Alexis was home he ordered the guard to call it a night. Nothing may have happened but he was sure something was going on with Kristina and he promised he would monitor her more closely and the first step was checking her new job out and ensuring she would be working in a safe environment. But for him to do that he would need Spinelli and right now he was with Sam and lucky working on a case from their P.I business.
Normally Jason wouldn't get himself involved in their cases but after Sam was almost kidnapped he had no choice but to step in. Not that she couldn't take care of herself because she could, Sam was very capable of handling a gun and not afraid to use it but she had one flaw – she took too many unnecessary risks. Jason couldn't wait for this case to wrap up. Not only had it become dangerous but it was interfering with his own business by preventing him from handling things he should have already taken care of. Sonny was not happy by this. Now that he was once again a married man, to the woman he had loved for so long, he was not willing to take any chances with Brenda and her son's life. He understood where his friend was coming from but it didn't stop the anger from wanting to surface. He had a family too and so many times he wanted to remind Sonny of that. The way Jason saw it; he had two. One consisted of Sam and Spinelli and the other was the family he walked away from.
Elizabeth, Cameron and Jake.
So much time had passed by but Jason still thought of the three of them often; especially Jake. His son was growing up so fast and he was missing every second of it. Once in awhile he checked up on them just to make sure they were okay and each time he did he was in awe of the changes he found in Jake. He strongly resembled Jason and he wondered how others didn't see that. Most times he caught glimpses of them at the park or in the evenings when they were arriving home and each time the urge to walk up and talk to his son got stronger. But he didn't and afterwards he would arrive home quiet and moody. Spinelli was always the one to help him through these times. Somehow his friend knew where Jason had come from and would go up to his room to give him the time alone he needed. Then he would return and sometimes they talked about Jake and other times they just sat in silence but always he silently reminded himself that it was a choice he made and though he regretted it often; seeing the three of them living life free of danger and filled with happiness helps.
Shaking his head free of thoughts of his son, Jason made a quick call to Spinelli to ask how much longer he would be because he needed him. He was pleased to hear he was heading back to the penthouse as they spoke. As soon as his friend walked through the door he told him what he wanted and why. What he found was pretty much what Jason expected; nothing that he or Sonny had to worry about. So it made him wonder what Kristina was hiding. It couldn't be the time she was spending with Johnny Zacchara because that was something he and her father were well aware of. Though Jason knew their friendship was just that, he still worried over Kristina getting hurt in their crossfire. Whatever it was she was hiding he would find out about it. Right now he wanted to head over to this coffee place and check the building out because he was unable to do so yesterday but before he could leave his phone rang.
"Hey." Sam greeted him.
"Is everything okay?"
"I am fine. I am calling about Max."
"What's going on?"
"You need to step in and help him out."
"Why does Max need my help?"
"Diane ended their relationship earlier today."
"Okay. What does that have to do with me?"
"Well..." Jason was absolutely sure he wasn't going to like what Sam was about to say. "I was thinking you can give him a call and invite him over tonight."
"Why would I do that?"
"Because he could use a few drinks."
"Then let Milo take care of him." Sam just chuckled.
"That was my first thought but Sonny has him doing something tonight and Max could use a friend right now." Jason rubbed a hand down his face. "All you have to do is have drinks with him; shoot a few games of pool and listen to him if he wants to talk."
"Sam..."
"Please." Jason sighed because he didn't want to do it but he knew he would for her.
"Fine." He reluctantly agreed. After hanging up with Sam, Jason quickly made the call and asked Max over tonight. The invitation may have come out sounding more like an order but it got the job done.
With this sudden change of plans, Jason had to put off inspecting the building Kristina would be working at. Instead he opted to take care of things he had been putting off far too long now. One of those things was making a surprise visit to Anthony Zacchara. The man had been seen talking to Michael too many times for his liking; clearly he was up to something and needed a reminder what would happen if he didn't stay away from Sonny's kids.
Author's Note: In the next chapter you will learn a little about Ray's background, Ethan and Kristina will have an interesting exchange and during Elizabeth's night out with Olivia, she will have three unexpected encounters. The first one will annoy her, the second one will shock her and the third one will confuse her.
Thank you for reading. Comments, criticisms and suggestions are always welcomed. Chapter 6 will be added soon.