Part 1:
---
It was early when Blake Carrington made his way downstairs heading towards the dining room, passing two maids in the hall who were looking at something and giggling. Biding them a good morning Blake was surprised when on seeing him the giggling stopped, both turning pale before scampering off as quickly as possible.
Shaking his head in bemusement Blake entered the dining room catching sight of Alexis who was already smartly dressed for the day, herself engrossed in a paper. Musing aloud Blake muttered "I wonder what that was about?"
Shrugging Alexis barely glanced up from the financial pages, digging out a scoop of grapefruit she guided it to her own lips without needing to look. Amused Blake watched for a moment to see if she missed before his own curiosity was peeked.
"What is so fascinating?"
"Hmmm." Alexis murmured trying for another segment of grapefruit but this time missing the bowl completely, her silver spoon clattering with the side plate. "Oh just an article on the Russian oil fields."
"Soviet fields?" Blake asked in astonishment. "Why on earth are you reading about them, they're state owned."
"Yes I know." Alexis replied vaguely still fascinated by her article. "Did you know Russia has proven oil reserves of 60 billion barrels, most of which are located in Western Siberia?"
"No I didn't." Blake replied humouring her.
"And then there is Eastern Siberia where little exploration has taken place. The Soviet Ministry of Natural Resources estimates that reserves there may total 4.7 billion barrels."
"Alexis I assume there is a point to all this?"
Finally looking up from her paper Alexis huffed in exasperation at Blake's short-sightedness. "We've dealt with the Chinese why not the Russians?"
"The Chinese needed our help developing those fields the Soviets don't and wouldn't' accept it regardless."
"Perhaps not now but things change...With a more modern production process there would be little limit on those fields capacity. Imagine it Blake western oil producing nations free from an OPEC dominated market."
Shaking his head at her naivety Blake added. "Day dream all you want. American corporations have no place in a communist system. As long as those oil fields are state owned you can forget about freedom from OPEC..." Blake insisted worrying he was about to be drawn into a long and tedious argument.
"Now can we stop discussing business fantasies for a minute, or do I need to implement a new house rule no business before breakfast. We need to talk."
Sighing as she folded her paper, but not dismissing her idea entirely Alexis gave Blake her undivided attention. "So talk."
"Fallon is flying in from California this morning."
"Yes I know." Alexis retorted cheekily pinching a triangle of toast from Blake's plate. "I do talk to Fallon you know."
Sliding his breakfast out of her reach Blake poured himself a strong coffee. "I'm glad to hear it." He added refilling her cup. "Now the children are coming with her."
"I know I'm looking forward to seeing them."
"All the children Alexis." Blake emphasized, surprised when Alexis continued to gaze at him serenely. "Including Krystina."
"Yes Blake I did manage to work that tidbit all by myself." Alexis retorted sarcastically. "Well why should that bother me? She's your daughter; her place is here with you."
Breaking off Alexis stared at Blake's stunned expression. "Honestly Blake you didn't think I was going to cause trouble for the girl?"
Choosing to avoid that potential minefield by ignoring the question entirely, Blake carried on as if Alexis had not spoken. "I wanted to discuss how we should act around the children."
Sitting back into her chair Alexis sipped at her coffee, emerald eyes locked on Blake's own dark orbs daring him to continue.
Unperturbed by her intense scrutiny Blake soldiered on. "I think we should continue to act circumspect…"
Snorting into her drink Alexis could barely restrain her giggles. "Circumspect…Dear God Blake what did you think I was going to do… Seduce you over the pool table--Engage in improper and scandalous banter over breakfast!"
"Alexis please." Blake moaned. "I am being serious."
"I know you are that is what makes this all the more hilarious." Alexis countered much to Blake's growing frustration, her giggles continuing until Blake scowled at her. "Fine you want us to maintain an appropriate distance in public."
"Yes thank you if that is not too much to ask?" Blake snapped.
"I also take it that if I am asked directly, and as you know our eldest daughter she is nothing if not direct, what am I to say? No comment?"
Pausing Blake had to admit she had a point. Although he was certain Jeff now knew there was more going on than simply friendship he didn't think his son-in-law had any idea they were sleeping together and he had no desire for that to change. "You must say whatever you think necessary but perhaps it would be best if you restrained from telling Fallon all the juicy details."
Pulling a face Alexis sat down her coffee cup with force. "Please Blake as liberal as I am even I would pause before informing our daughter about her parent's sex life!"
"Then we tell her as much as Jeff?"
"That we are friendly." Alexis retorted with a provocative lift of an eyebrow that caused Blake to shake his head in despair. "I'm only winding you up; I will neither confirm nor deny any of Fallon's suspicions."
"Thank you." Blake replied, falling back into his chair exhausted, verbal dueling with Alexis early in the morning was enough to tire anyone. "I would appreciate the chance to break this gently to Krystina, get her used to you being around as a member of the family before…"
"Before?" Alexis asked genuinely intrigued, this was the first time Blake had even hinted at having plans for them beyond the status quo.
Yet Blake was saved from answering as Gerard entered paper in hand.
"Mr Carrington there is something you need to see I confiscated this off of two of the staff…" He said placing the paper on the table next to Blake.
Glancing up from her grapefruit as Blake exclaimed in horror his face turning pale Alexis asked "Blake what's the matter?" Her own expression falling as he held up the paper and she caught sight of the headline.
---
"Daddy!" Fallon's joyful greeting lifted Blake's spirits as did the enthusiastic hugs of his two grandchildren.
"Fallon…LB…Lauren it's so good to see you!" Blake exclaimed pulling his eldest daughter into his arms as soon as he could. "But where's Krystina?"
"Oh she was just here a minute ago." Fallon exclaimed glancing around the hall for her sister's fair head. "Perhaps she went straight upstairs."
Frowning at such a suggestion Blake followed Fallon out of the library watching as his two grandchildren raced up the stairs. Little Blake taking the stairs easily and little Lauren gamely struggling after him calling out for him to wait in her toddler lilt.
Wrapping his arm around Fallon they headed up the stairs more sedately but before they had reached the top Fallon was already asking questions.
"Where's mummy is she here?"
"No she had to go into town, she's sorry she couldn't be here to greet you but…" Blake trailed off unwilling to spoil Fallon's homecoming with such sordid news.
"It's alright Daddy I saw the paper in the airport."
Shaking his head as he realized just how quickly such a story would spread Blake muttered "She's gone into town to create merry hell but I don't want to talk about it I just want to spend time with my girls and my grandson."
"Speaking of your girls." Fallon paused. "Daddy I've had a few problems with Krystina."
"Problems what kind of problems?"
"She's been very withdrawn spending most of her time in her room."
"Well that doesn't sound like her at all." Blake replied. "Perhaps she was just homesick?"
Shaking her head Fallon insisted. "I think it's something more than that I don't want it to seem like I'm tattling but there has been a lot of fighting with LB and I've caught her out in a few fibs. I think she needs to talk to someone."
"Krystina will be fine!" Blake insisted refusing to even consider the idea of his baby daughter seeing a shrink. "She is home now; everything will be alright Fallon you'll see."
"Alright daddy." Fallon backed down unable to quash the feeling her father was deliberately burying his head in the sand. If she was right he would have to deal with eventually, in the meantime she had a perfect opportunity to change the subject. "So what's going on with you and Mummy?"
---
Part 2:
---
There were at least a dozen moments in every day that Dana regretted ever opening the door to Adam Carrington. She could have shut it in his face with good conscience after everything he had put her through and yet she hadn't been able to harden her heart to that degree. She hadn't been able to leave him face to face, instead slipping out whilst he slept; so what chance did she really have that night when he turned up on her doorstep looking like he had stared into the depths of hell.
She had let him into her home, kept him hidden from the police and it didn't take her long to realize she had let him back into her heart as well.
Perhaps he had never really left.
The day Alexis and Blake had visited Adam had cried on her shoulder like a little boy, both touched and ashamed at his parent's forgiveness. She had asked him if he wanted to go home, he hadn't answered, and somehow they had ended up falling into bed.
Yet even Dana had a limit and Adam was fast approaching that limit.
Pulling into her driveway Dana rushed into her house paper in hand. She never normally read any Denver papers, they were a stark reminder of the life she had given up but one of the more bitchy secretaries at the office did. Cathy had been waiting for her when she arrived that morning, a smug smile on her scarlet lips.
"Well you certainly had a lucky escape."
"What are you talking about?" Dana had asked rushing to fix both herself and her boss a coffee, surprised when Cathy slammed the Denver Chronicle down in front of her, all too familiar faces staring up at her.
"That husband of yours, wanted by the police for attempted murder…"
"Ex-Husband!" Dana countered but she couldn't help but read the article. Horrified by the implications, it was bad enough to accuse Adam of attempted murder but to implicate Alexis; to insinuate a plot gone wrong, to accuse Adam of trying to eliminate his co-conspirator.
As soon as she was released for lunch Dana had rushed home.
Slamming open the door she surprised Adam who was morosely staring at the television; watching some mindless game show.
"I thought I told you not to watch that during the day. The neighbors will become suspicious."
"I had the sound turned down." Adam countered. "But what are you doing home…Surely that will be more suspicious?"
"I don't think that is going to matter much anymore!" Dana retorted slamming the paper down in front of Adam. "You told me it was an accident."
Picking up the paper, Adam quickly scanned the article, his face becoming more ashen with every line.
"Tell me it's all lies." Dana pleaded.
"It's worse than that it's a disgrace…A travesty." Adam exploded. "How could they print this about mother…a reliable source my arse…its Sable I know it is, she'd stop at nothing to destroy mother, taking her tankers and Dex wasn't enough for her, no she wants Mother to suffer."
"How can they print this if it's all lies?"
"Its Sable's word against Mother's, Monica could refute this but unless she is served notice she won't utter a word."
"So Alexis won't go to jail for this?" Dana asked relieved.
"They don't need to, the police will look into it and dismiss it unless Sable makes a formal accusation, which she won't do, it'll be trial by media. Sable will whip the papers up into a feeding frenzy, and they won't stop until they've torn mother to shreds, oh she can sue, demand they write a retraction but by then the damage will have been done."
"So there is nothing that can be done?" Dana exclaimed sinking into the couch.
"Sable won't stop until she's drawn blood." Adam replied collapsing beside her. "It's all my fault. All I've done since I walked back into her life was destroy it."
"Adam…" Dana began reaching out to him, disturbed when he shook her off.
"You should head back to work; you don't want to be late." Adam muttered softly his gaze returning to the television yet he still grasped the paper in his fist.
"I'll be home around six ok…I'll make pasta, you like that." Dana murmured picking up her purse backing towards the door. "You'll be alright till I get back; you don't need me to stay? Because I can phone in…"
"And tell them what; sorry I can't come back in my fugitive ex-husband needs my shoulder to cry on." Adam retorted sarcastically but it was clear his heart wasn't in it. "Just go, no need for two of us to ruin our day."
Yet as she shut the door behind her and got back into her car Dana couldn't shake the feeling she was making a mistake.
---
It was late afternoon before Alexis returned to the mansion and it was clear from her stormy expression that her morning had not gone well.
Fallon waited at the bottom of the stairs watching as her stubborn mother insisted on pushing her chair, waving Gerard away with a barely civil glare. Despite her scowl her mother looked well, neatly dressed in a fabulous dark pinstripe suit, delicate patent heels and a fabulous ruby broach.
"Hello Mummy." Fallon called out smiling as Alexis's sour expression quickly vanished to be replaced with delight at the sight of her eldest daughter.
"Fallon." Alexis replied joyfully opening her arms to give her daughter a hug. "Oh darling it is so wonderful to see you, we've missed you." Alexis added as they retired to the garden room ordering tea from a passing housemaid.
Settling herself down next to her mother Fallon paused before asking teasingly. "Is that a royal we, you have adopted, or are you talking about Daddy and yourself?"
"Prying already Fallon." Alexis chided tutting at her daughter's blatant eagerness. "I thought I taught you better than that, at least wait until a few minutes into a conversation before leading it in the direction that interests you. And if you can't wait that long at least wait until your victim has a cup of tea…That way they can't just jump up and leave."
"I see you're determined to be as closemouthed as Daddy." Fallon pouted.
Laughing as the tea arrived Alexis busied herself with pouring cups for both of them. "Milk or Lemon?"
"Milk pleases…Mummy don't I have the right to know I mean it's thanks to me you were both together in California…"
"Sugar?" Alexis asked picking up a cube with the silver tongs a secret smile playing around her lips, her eyes locking knowingly with her daughter.
"No thank you Mummy." Fallon countered picking up her own cup, surprised as Alexis added two to her tea. "Sweet tooth today?"
"No I missed lunch no appetite unsurprising in the circumstances."
"Yes. I read the paper, mummy its scandalous, how can they get away with printing such lies?"
"Oh they won't." Alexis muttered seriously. "My lawyers are already on it, by the time they are through with the Chronicle they'll be lucky to afford paper and ink enough to write their retraction."
"Well I am glad to see you in such fighting spirits. I was worried about you."
Touched by Fallon's words Alexis patted her daughters arm. "Oh darling that's so sweet of you, but you should know your mother by now, it'll take more than a few unfounded accusations in a local rag to destroy Alexis Colby."
"Normally yes but after what you went through…You look so much better but I can only imagine how still having to use the wheelchair is affecting you." Fallon added hesitantly, unsure how Alexis would react having her disability so openly discussed.
"I won't lie it is frustrating to be so dependent on something, on other people, but the staff here have been supportive. Blake managed to find this Gorgon of a nurse to bully me into my physio and…"
"And Daddy?" Fallon asked knowingly, her eyes locking with her mother's over her tea cup.
Unable to suppress her smile completely Alexis simply didn't answer.
"Don't think I didn't notice how you managed to change the subject back then." Fallon commented.
"Darling one of the most important skills a really good gossip monger learns is when to drop a subject."
Sighing Fallon fell back against her chair. "Fine consider it dropped, but I will be watching you both, you can't keep this innocent act up all the time."
"You do what you feel you have to darling…Now since turnabout is fair play, have you talked to Jeffrey since you left?" Alexis demanded her emerald eyes locked on Fallon causing her daughter to squirm as she realised just how completely she walked into that one.
---
It was a little after six when Dana finally made it home. She had decided to stop at the liquor store to pick up a nice bottle of red to go with dinner.
Unlocking the door she was surprised to walk into pitch darkness, the only light that from the TV which continued to play out the same endless drone of infomercials. Relieved that Adam at least seemed to be taking her concerns about the neighbours seriously Dana groped for the light switch.
"Adam can you…" She started, but the sight of her ex laid out on the floor stopped her dead.
"Adam…Honey…Oh god." Dana exclaimed unsure what she should do, had he collapsed, had the strain of the last weeks gotten too much for him?
Drawing closer the cause for his collapse became all too clear. In one hand he still held the Chronicle in the other a practically empty bottle of bourbon; a bottle that Dana was sure had been full this morning.
Her concern flared to anger as she picked up the bottle. "You selfish bastard. Adam do you hear me?" Dana added grasping his chin and slapping his cheek. "I actually thought you might be sick."
"Mother." Adam managed to gasp dousing Dana's anger more effectively than a thousand apologies.
"No Darling it's Dana."
"Mother…So sorry…" Adam muttered tears streaming down his face. "My fault…Mother please don't leave…"
"I won't leave." Dana reassured him. Yet it didn't seem to sooth him and he kept drunkenly calling for Alexis.
Sitting beside him Dana felt her eyes drawn to the phone before being pulled back to Adam. He wanted Alexis, if she called her she knew Alexis would be here within a few hours. But could she take that choice away from Adam? She had promised him that it would be his decision if he wanted to hand himself in, if she called Alexis she would be breaking her promise.
Taking Adam's hand in her own Dana did her best to comfort him, only wishing there was someone there to help her as well.
---
Part 3:
---
It was early evening when Blake made his way downstairs for dinner. Pausing by the open library as he heard Alexis on the phone. Popping his head around the door, he couldn't help but smiles as Alexis continued to rant.
"I expected results… What on earth am I paying you for? Deal with the Chronicle, either silence them or buy the damn paper, whatever it takes…What do you mean it's gone too far for that…Fine ring me in the morning, Goodnight."
"Trouble?" Blake asked slipping into the room, coming to stand behind her, resting his hands on her bare shoulders.
Smiling up at him Alexis reached up and covered his hands with her own, squeezing them gently. "Nothing I can't handle. Is it time for Dinner?"
"In a moment." Blake replied. "No need to rush." He added leaning down and nuzzling into her neck, trailing kisses down to her shoulder. "Ummmm I do love this dress."
"Careful Blake, circumspect remember." Alexis teased wheeling herself out of his reach.
"I should have known you would use that phrase to torture me."
"Me?" Alexis asked innocently. "I am doing nothing of the kind."
"Alexis when you dress like that, knowing full well I have to keep my hands to myself that is torture!"
"Hmmm." Alexis purred in amusement. "You may have a point…Shall we?" She suggested heading towards the door.
"After you Ma'am." Blake added with a bow following her half a pace behind into the dining room where Jeff, Fallon, LB and Krystina were already seated.
Pausing for a moment in the doorway Blake watched as Alexis wheeled her chair to the only available place before taking his own seat at the head of the table.
Glancing to his immediate left as he took his seat Blake exchanged a look with Alexis who knew exactly what he was thinking; they had been set up, and simply replied with a minute twitch of an eyebrow her eyes drifting over to Fallon who was busy fussing over LB who was wiggling in his seat. Following her gaze subtly Blake shook his head at his daughter's persistence.
"Evening Alexis you look lovely." Jeff greeted her with a kiss to the cheek before settling back into the chair beside her.
"Thank you Jeff."
Smiling across as she took in her parents seated together Fallon agreed. "You look beautiful mummy." Admiring the deep red velvet dress that hugged Alexis's curves yet left her shoulders bare. "Don't you agree Daddy?"
Shooting Fallon a look that clearly told her he wouldn't be drawn into her little game Blake instead turned to greet his other daughter, who was sitting to his right, dressed up prettily in a blue dress.
Fortunately Alexis spoke before Fallon could embarrass them further. "Well you all scrub up quite nicely yourselves."
As dinner was served Blake stood raising his glass waiting until he had everyone's attention.
"I can't tell you how much it means to have you all here. My family. It's more precious now than anything. So can I ask you to charge your glasses? To the Carrington's and Colby's."
A toast that each echoed, but Blake noticed Krystina barely touched her milk choosing instead to push her food around her plate.
Sitting back down he turned his attention to his youngest daughter. "Well Krystina are you looking forward to starting school on Monday?"
"I suppose…I just wish I knew someone in my class." Krystina replied shyly her eyes locked on her plate.
"I'm sure you'll have a wonderful time and make some new friends." Blake replied soothingly.
"It really is a lovely school, LB loves it and Mrs Perks your teacher seems nice. She was so understanding about you starting a week late…LB eat your carrots or no dessert." Fallon scolded.
Smiling at his grandson's groan Blake added encouragingly. "And LB will be there to make sure you're alright, won't you LB?"
"Sure Grandpa…I mean we'll see each other at break. I can't wait to see my friends again, tell them all about the shark we saw in California." LB answered his eyes flickering over to the sideboard where Mrs Gunnerson's famous chocolate torte already sat waiting before reluctantly finishing his vegetables.
"It's just a shame they couldn't have started term with all their classmates." Jeff suddenly cut in earning himself a sharp glance from Fallon.
"Just drop it Jeff."
Yet Jeff clearly wasn't in the mood to drop the topic. "Why was that again?"
"I told you there were things to sort out in California; the delay just couldn't be helped."
"I don't suppose any of these things went by the name Miles Colby?"
"I think it's time for the children to head off to bed." Fallon suddenly insisted. "They have a big day tomorrow."
"It's Saturday." Jeff cut in.
"And Mom we haven't had dessert yet."
"Yes but we're getting up early to go riding. Come on LB…Krystina, if you're good you can have dessert up in the playroom."
Shifting awkwardly in her seat as Fallon ushered the children out of the room Alexis toyed with her food taking a deep sip of her wine. Looking over at Blake through her lashes Alexis saw his jaw clench as he fiddled with his cutlery, clearly a sign of underlying agitation. If Jeff had been absent she would have reached over and taken his hand but instead she settled for gazing at him warmly.
As if sensing her eyes on him, Blake looked up and caught Alexis's gaze. For a moment he held it, feeling the tension leeching out of him as he held her emerald gaze, her eyes twinkling as Blake answered with a half smile.
Relieved that Blake was starting to relax Alexis turned to a brooding Jeff and asked. "So which school is this?"
"Denver County Elementary."
"A public school?" Alexis practically choked on her wine. "You're sending Carrington and Colby children to a public school? Well I can't foresee any problems with that…" Alexis trailed off sarcastically shaking her head.
"It's a good school Mummy!" Fallon defended taking her seat, having overheard the last comment. "LB joined last spring when we moved back from California. He fitted in with no problems."
"Boys are different Fallon, their entire social network from the age of five to twenty five revolves around the ability to kick a football, hit a home run or, what's the phrase, 'dunk a hoop'? Well I am sure you both know best."
Laughing at Alexis's perplexed expression Blake waved aside her concerns. "I am sure Krystina will fit in wherever she goes. Besides it is the school Krystle wanted her to attend, she didn't want her daughter growing up to be just another of Blake Carrington's spoiled little girls."
"Hey!" Fallon exclaimed in mock outrage. "I do hope that comment was not directed at me." And with that the tension that had built shattered and all four adults fell about giggling.
"Well you or Amanda, and since your father had the greatest hand in raising you…" Alexis added mischievously sharing a conspiratorial wink with Blake.
Accepting a large slice of torte Fallon loaded up her fork watching her two parents with a playful smirk. "It's nice to hear such motherly concern for Krystina's welfare."
"Grandmotherly concern Fallon, LB attends that school as well. Besides isn't a person entitled to air an opinion in this house without having their motives psychoanalyzed?"
"Mummy I just meant…"
"Drop it Fallon." Jeff warned. "It doesn't matter."
"Jeff I was just teasing." Fallon countered defensively turning to her father for support but Blake avoided her gaze. "What is it pick on Fallon night?"
"No not everything is about you." Jeff retorted his blue eyes locking with Fallon's own. "Just stop pushing, you can't just let things be, you have to keep on..."
Flinging down her napkin Fallon got back to her feet. "Excuse me; I don't seem to be in the mood for chocolate this evening."
"Fallon darling…" Alexis began but her daughter ignored her and stormed off to her room.
"Sorry Blake. Alexis, I shouldn't have said anything. I don't know what's gotten into us lately. We shouldn't bring our problems to the dinner table…If you'll excuse me?" Jeff muttered sadly.
"Good night Jeff." Blake replied softly.
"Night." Alexis echoed squeezing his arm as he passed.
"Well not quite the happy family dinner I was hoping for." Blake muttered. "Fallon seems determined to grill us, she won't be happy till she knows everything."
"What did you expect; she is my daughter after all." Alexis quipped causing Blake to chortle. "She means well Blake, but I don't think she is particularly happy at the moment. It can't be easy living in the same house as your estranged husband…She has no one else in her life at the moment, and no focus other than the children."
"There is nothing wrong with being a full time mother."
"I never said there was." Alexis retorted. "But this is Fallon Blake, she's our daughter, she needs a challenge."
Nodding Blake rested his chin on his folded hands. "You may have a point. The happiest I can remember her was when she was managing La Mirage."
"Well then we should do something about it." Alexis insisted.
Laughing out loud Blake leant back in his chair. "Well then what should 'we' do?"
Taking a dainty forkful of her torte Alexis paused before answering. "We manage two of the largest companies in the USA; we must have something that would interest her?"
"Fallon does not enjoy the oil business." Blake pointed out.
"Well surely we can diversify?"
Spearing a piece of torte Blake savored the taste as he considered Alexis's suggestion. "Perhaps…?"
"Yes?"
"Sable is selling The Carlton."
"Is she now?" Alexis smiled. "Well that sounds promising,"
"Ahh." Blake countered waving his fork. "But Sable would never sell to you."
"No." Alexis admitted with a small pout. "But she would sell to you and if I happened to help finance it…"
"Sable would flip. So are you proposing a partnership Mrs Colby?" Blake asked playfully leaning across the table.
"Would you accept if I did Mr Carrington?" Alexis answered in an equally suggestive manner.
"It would depend on the terms, would they be generous?" Blake retorted causing Alexis to smirk and toy with her dessert.
He watched dry mouthed as Alexis lifted another dainty forkful to her mouth this time slowly drawing her fork between her lips, her tongue licking it clean of even a trace of chocolate before she set it back down.
Smiling at his strained expression, as the staff arrived to clear the table, Alexis whispered throatily. "Oh they would be more than generous."
---
He had waited in his room as long as he could, the imagine of Alexis licking her fork clean playing over and over in his mind until he just couldn't stand it a moment longer. Fastening his dressing gown Blake slipped into the corridor certain that by now everyone should be in bed and he could make his way undetected.
Yet he had reckoned without his incredibly stubborn daughter and son-in-law, who stood in the middle of the corridor, quietly rowing.
Panicking Blake slipped into the nearest doorway. Glancing around the doorframe he hoped they hadn't spotted him, the last thing he needed was to explain where he was going and why he was hiding from his daughter and son-in-law in his own house. Thankfully due to their argument the pair seemed oblivious.
"Grow up Fallon."
"You started it Jeff."
"Well I'll be the one to finish it. " Jeff insisted turning to storm back to his room. "Good night Fallon."
"Don't you dare walk away from me Jeff Colby!" Fallon hissed stalking after her fuming husband.
Holding his breath Blake inched back into the shadows as they passed then when he heard Jeff's bedroom door slam he finally crept out of the nursery and down the hallway. Reaching his destination he slipped into the room, sighing in relief.
"Well I was beginning to think you weren't coming." Alexis chuckled taking in Blake's weary expression before patting the space beside her in bed.
Crossing the room Blake all but collapsed beside her, his heart still pounding ten to the dozen.
Groaning as he lay back against the pillows Blake said. "I don't think I can run that gauntlet every night and I suppose I'll have to get up extra early in the morning as well…Can you imagine if LB caught me, he'd have no qualms asking over breakfast Grandpa what were you doing in Grandma's room."
"Awww poor darling." Alexis cooed insincerity dripping from her tone. "What a trial it will be for you."
"You could try to act a trifle more sincere Alexis."
"You want me to mollycoddle you, soothe you like a babe in arms? Sorry Blake you've got the wrong woman." Alexis countered.
"And I thought you loved me." Blake retorted in the most petulant tone.
"I do." Alexis answered immediately. "You know I do, one has nothing to do with the other."
Hiding his amusement behind a hangdog expression Blake forced himself to keep a serious face as he replied. "Then what is a little ego stroking between lovers. Hmmmm."
Shaking her head at his pout Alexis leant forward and kissed him tenderly. "Better now?"
Reluctantly releasing her lips Blake gazed up at her lovingly. "I'm getting there, that's quite a tonic you have…But I think I need another."
"Are you sure it's only your ego you want stroking Mr Carrington?"
"You had something specific in mind?" Blake asked playing along.
"Oh I can think of a treatment or two but are you certain you can handle it Mr Carrington?" Alexis teased running her fingers along the edge of Blake's dressing gown.
"Oh I think my doctor will allow it." Blake retorted playfully pulling her into his arms.
"Besides it was only the thought of doing this that got me through dinner." And he kissed her firmly, coaxing her lips apart, swallowing her moan of pleasure as his hands began to languidly stroke her side.
Breaking apart Alexis quickly pushed off his dressing gown toying with the buttons of his pajamas. "Fantasizing about me when you should have been paying attention to the children. Naughty Blake; no wonder you looked so pained, and I thought it was just having to listen to the children bicker…"
"I admit I tuned out most of the arguments." Blake muttered leaning down placing featherlike kisses down her neck and shoulder his fingers sliding the thin straps of her nightgown down her slender arms as his mouth moved lower.
"I had far more important things in mind." He whispered against her skin his talented lips causing Alexis to arch against him.
"And when… Blake… Carrington… puts… his mind… to something." Alexis gasped, biting her lip to keep from moaning out loud.
"Resistance is futile." Blake completed for her, driving all thoughts of the children, scandals and business from both their minds for quite some time.
---
Part 4:
It was far too early on a Saturday morning for Alexis Colby to be awake and dressed. Normally she would have stayed in bed to at least ten but since Blake had woken her up, when he sloped off back to his own bed around six, she had stared up at the ceiling for an hour before admitting defeat.
So with the assistance of her nurse she had dressed in soft cashmere, then she had glanced at the morning papers before consigning them to the dustbin. Even then the glaring headlines that splashed accusations and spilled details of her private life continued to haunt her. It had not been easy to see Dex's affair with Amanda set down in print, or even accusations of her own assignation with King Galen once more dredged up.
The accusations over her involvement in the 'Carlton affair' continued to abound, and was distressing to see all the local papers, save the Mirror, and one or two national picking up the story. The situation was quickly getting out of control and for once Alexis wasn't sure how to act.
Alexis dreaded seeing Blake's reaction, so much so she almost decided not to head down to breakfast and instead to take the meal in her room. However she had never considered herself a coward and knowing she would have to face Blake eventually forced her downstairs.
"Good morning Mrs Colby." Gerard greeted Alexis politely. "You have a visitor in the library."
"A visitor already?" Alexis replied surprised glancing at her watch. "It's not even nine yet…Who is it?"
"A Mr Sam Dexter. I can ask Mrs Gunnerson to keep your breakfast warm for you."
"Thank you Gerard." Alexis said reluctantly wheeling her chair towards the library where indeed Sam Dexter stood staring out the window. For a moment Alexis considered leaving, the last thing she wanted was a row before she had even had one cup of coffee but she quickly reconsidered. If she was lucky perhaps she could get Sam out of the house before Blake came back from his ride?
"This is a surprise. What can I do for you Sam?"
Starting in surprise Sam Dexter turned to face her, his eyes quickly widening as he took in the wheelchair and for a moment he looked conflicted, unsure, then his face hardened and he spat back.
"You can explain this." He said slamming the latest edition of the Denver Chronicle on the table.
Wincing as she caught sight of the headline and a rather unflattering picture of herself Alexis paused before answering. "What is there to explain, it's all lies."
"You know what the press is like, print now, think later." She scoffed leaning back in her chair as she studied Blake's old associate.
Time had not been kind to the once handsome businessman, and clearly Dex's condition had managed to sap what was left of his strength. He looked gaunt and haggard; his clothes hanging off his frame, and even clenching his fists couldn't disguise their trembling. Somehow in the past five years he had become a very old man and Alexis felt herself softening.
"Sam why are you really here?" Alexis asked gently. "Is it Dex is he worse?"
"I will not discuss my son with you!" Sam hissed whirling wildly about, shaking his trembling fist in her direction. "Don't even say his name…I just needed to hear it from you, wanted to look you in the eye as you lied so I would know the truth."
"What lie?" Alexis demanded bringing her delicate brows together in a frown. "You can't honestly believe this trash?"
"There is an eye witness." Sam retorted. "You won't get away with it this time Alexis."
"An eyewitness who hasn't gone to the police, hasn't made an official statement, just spreads lies in the newspapers and why is that? Because they know full well they can't back it up." Alexis pronounced confidently.
"Not being able to prove something doesn't mean it isn't true!" Sam retorted crossly. "I know you Alexis, I know how slippery you are. You have a reputation for dealing with men who betray you, you hated Dex for leaving you and this was your way of paying him back. Admit it!"
"Sam I give you my word this is all lies, I had nothing to do with Dex going over that balcony. No matter what problems we had I still cared about him, I never would have wished him harm."
Shaking his head Sam Dexter paced unsteadily, wringing his hands as he babbled.
"Do you really expect me to believe that? You are a blight on this country, ever since you came here. I wish to god you had stayed in England, perhaps then my poor son wouldn't have wasted the best years of his life pining after you. It disgusts me the way you used him, toyed with him, throwing him away when you were done. It is too easy to believe you would try to destroy him."
"It may have looked like that to you, but there was always more going on. No matter what you may believe I did love him Sam."
"You you're not capable of love. You're not human like the rest of us."
Reeling from that blow Alexis answered softly, so softly that Sam had to strain to hear her. "I am just as vulnerable as the next person. Look at me I'm in a wheelchair, I didn't exactly walk away from that accident myself. I was badly injured I even died for a few minutes."
Rounding on her angrily Sam dismissed her words replying vindictively. "Yet you didn't stay dead mores the pity…How many people have tried to kill you over the years? Somehow you manage to survive; you ruin people's lives and survive. Always you, you're like a cockroach, a human shaped cockroach impossible to kill, even if you squash it under your boot."
"I don't have to listen to this." Alexis retorted her patience finally at an end. "If you've said all you came here to say…" She trailed off wheeling her chair towards the door.
Yet Sam stepped into her path his hand reaching into his pocket his fingers closing around something solid, which he pointed in her direction. "You are not going anywhere."
Freezing Alexis stared at his pocket, her eyes widening as she guessed just what he had hidden there. "Sam don't be a fool."
"A fool?"
"There are people in the hallway, I could call out."
"You wouldn't be able to finish the sentence." Sam retorted coldly, his dark eyes narrowing. "Now you are going to tell me the truth or god help me I will use this. Did you arrange that accident?"
"Good Morning Sam." Blake's voice cut the tense atmosphere like a knife and Alexis found herself reassured just by his presence. Blake wouldn't let anything happen to her, he'd stop Sam before he could do anything foolish.
"Blake." Sam practically growled. "This is none of your concern."
"On the contrary." Blake retorted walking until he stood between the pair. "You are talking to a member of my family, as the head of that family I am automatically involved. Now why don't you hand over whatever you have there and we'll talk."
Blake's voice was calm and reassuring, his face neutral but inside he felt frozen solid, he had since the moment he had walked into the library and seen Alexis in danger.
"No…She'll lie if I do."
"Sam." Blake urged. "Give it to me. Alexis will answer your questions won't you Alexis?"
"Yes." Alexis replied swallowing nervously as Sam's hands continued to shake, afraid that the gun might go off by accident.
"She's lying."
"She's not lying, but she is frightened. Give me the gun Sam." Blake insisted soothingly. "There is no need for this."
"Blake." Sam murmured his eyes wide as he met his old friend's gaze. "He's my son...I can't just do nothing."
Holding Sam's gaze Blake edged forward, "I understand but this is not the answer."
And Blake did understand. He understood a father's need to protect and seek justice for their child but not like this.
For a moment Sam seemed conflicted but Blake waited patiently until all the fight seemed to go out of him and he collapsed onto the couch his head in his hands. Leaning forward Blake removed the gun from Sam's pocket noting immediately that it wasn't loaded.
"Oh thank god." Alexis gasped, closing her eyes for a moment's reflection, opening them to find Blake's gaze on her, his eyes saying what he couldn't out loud. She gave him a weak smile, her relief palpable. A feeling that Blake shared
"Alexis would you leave us for a moment?" Blake asked softly, relieved when she nodded, squeezing his arm as she passed.
For a moment neither man spoke, Sam sat shaking and Blake stood, feeling his insides start to thaw.
"Sam Dexter this is not like you. Not like you at all." Blake finally muttered turning to Sam. "I've known you for nearly forty years and I would never have believed you capable of this."
"I just don't know what to do…He's my son." Sam sobbed into his hands. "I thought I had dealt with it but then the newspapers started all these stories and it just brought it all back up. I feel like I've failed Dex Blake, that those responsible have been let off scot-free."
Settling beside him on the couch Blake patted his old friend on the shoulder. Unable to ignore that Sam had a point, but with Adam gone all the blame was falling on Alexis, unjustly so in Blake's opinion. Something had to be done.
"You've done all you can Sam but you're right someone does need to pay for this, I think it's time those responsible and I had a little talk."
---
"Sir you can't go in there…"
But Blake simply ignored the secretary's protest and barged his way into the office; startling the tubby, balding gentleman who sat behind the desk. Dennis Spalding may have been ten years Blake junior but he had nothing on the older man physically and from the fumbling way he dropped his paperwork as he got nervously to his feet, he couldn't compare professionally either.
"Mr Carrington…Why this is an unexpected pleasure…" Dennis mumbled holding out a hand that Blake stared at contemptuously.
"I'd wait to hear what I have to say first Spalding." Blake growled slamming that morning's edition of the Chronicle on to its editor's desk.
"Ah I see you have our latest paper." Dennis expounded proudly. "Did you wish to add a commentary…As a man who knows Alexis Colby intimately; your insight into her personality would be fascinating. Give the public all the facts..."
"Your latest piece of fiction you mean." Blake countered watching as Spalding's pleasant demeanor vanished, the younger man's ire clearly roused at having his credibility questioned.
"Now see here Mr Carrington, we are simply printing the truth."
Shaking his head in disgust Blake retorted angrily. "No you're not, you're conducting a public hatchet job, based on rumour and some alleged testimony from an anonymous eye witness."
"Our source is solid."
"Really." Blake replied derision dripping from his tone. "So solid they prefer to make their accusations anonymously through your paper rather than making a statement to the police? Now I want the name of this liar."
"Absolutely not, our source is confidential."
"The name Mr Spalding, or I swear I will bring down all the influence I have with your owners, with the Governor, hell even with rival papers if I have to…"
"Are you threatening me Mr Carrington, I hardly think a man in your position with a pending murder trial hanging over your head is in any position to intimidate me." Spalding scoffed but Blake could tell from the way he shifted in his seat he had him on the back foot.
"I intend to prove my innocence just as I have done before Mr Spalding." Blake cautioned. "Now I suggest you think very carefully, remember who lives in this town, and where the power truly lies. The police are never going to arrest Alexis Colby, they know full well there is no proof of her involvement or they would have gone ahead and charged her. Eventually you are going to have to print a retraction."
Blake paused watching to see if his words had had any effect. "And when that time comes, the only thing standing between you and Alexis Colby's vultures will be me. If I do nothing once she is through with you, you'll be lucky to get a job on a paper round let alone editing one!"
"What do you want?" Spalding asked quietly.
"The name of your source." Blake replied stalling Spalding's protest by adding. "Fine if you can't just tell me if my guess is right."
"Who?"
"Sable Colby." Blake answered watching as Spalding blanched, that was all the answer he needed.
Heading towards the door he paused to glance back at the trembling editor, a momentary feeling of pity for a man far out of his depth. "If I were you I would start distancing myself from this mess Mr Spalding before it is too late."
---
Part 5:
---
It was nearing lunchtime when Adam emerged from his room having slept off his drunkenness.
Dana stood at the sink washing up unable to quell the flare of resentment as he simply slumped at the breakfast bar, pouring himself a large coffee not even looking in her direction. Instead glancing at the paper Dana had picked up that morning before throwing it aside disgusted by the story.
For a moment the silence was deafening, neither prepared to speak until finally Adam caved.
"Dana I'm sorry."
Biting her lip as she fought back tears Dana refused to give in, he would have to do better than that.
"I really am sorry." Adam tried again, lifting his head for the first time to gaze at Dana's rigid back.
"I know I don't deserve you. All I ever do is hurt you, hurt anyone close to me."
Finally unable to keep quiet Dana asked. "Words Adam, they are just words, if you're so sorry prove it!"
For a moment neither spoke, nor Dana felt that last flicker of hope wither and die.
"I want to but I don't know if I am strong enough." Adam whispered barely loud enough for her to hear.
Unable to resist his vulnerable side Dana set her tea-towel down and went to stand behind him, wrapping her arms around his shoulder.
"You'll never know if you don't try." She added holding him tightly in her embrace as deep sobs racked his body unable to stop the thought from entering her mind that perhaps Adam wasn't strong enough after all.
---
It had taken Blake little over an hour to track down Sable Colby.
He had tried The Carlton first before remembering her new found distaste for the hotel. Eventually he had struck gold; Sable had stopped in middle of her shopping trip at a popular little Denver patisserie.
It didn't take her long to spot him as he weaved in and out of the many ladies, who all turned to stare as Blake Carrington passed amongst them; a few of them shooting jealous looks at Sable as she waved Blake over to her table.
"Blake how wonderful to see you, won't you join me the pastries here are simply divine? Normally I wouldn't indulge but since I'm eating for two now…"
"Sable we need to talk." Blake replied seriously awkwardly hovering behind the chair she offered.
"Well sit down and we'll talk." Sable retorted with a smile, catching a waitress's eye to order him a cup of coffee.
"Not here." Blake insisted waving off the surprised waitress when she appeared.
"Well here is where we are Blake and I for one haven't finished my tea so please sit."
Reluctantly Blake sat down in the wicker chair, folding his hands in his lap as he felt the weighty gazes most of Denver's lunching ladies on his back. This would not be his chosen venue for such a discussion, it was too public, too alien for him, yet the matter couldn't be left and so gathering his courage Blake spoke.
"Sable I know that you are behind the stories in The Chronicle."
"Me? Oh Blake where did you get that ridiculous idea…" Sable began but Blake could tell from the way her eyes shifted from his and the way she fiddling with her teacup that she was lying.
And if there was one thing Blake Carrington hated it was being lied to, he always thought it showed a certain contempt for his intelligence. "I know Sable, I had it from Dennis Spalding himself, so don't make this worse by daring to lie to me about it!"
"That Bastard, it was supposed to remain confidential." Sable gasped the colour draining from her face.
"So I was right it was you. Dammit Sable why the hell are you doing this, you know damn well it was an accident."
"Do I? Do I really Blake? What's more DO YOU" Sable exploded not caring that some the ladies at the nearest tables were now openly listening in. "Were you there, no, I was and I am not convinced."
"Why because you hate Alexis, because you would like nothing more than for her to be guilty?"
"She is responsible, whether she arranged it or not…That woman is poison, she destroys all those around her, Cecil died because of her, a heart attack brought on by her insatiable lust for money and power. Rowan shot to death in her apartment. That old bodyguard of hers pushed off of her terrace, murdered because of her. And poor Dex."
Taking a deep breath so as to try and calm himself, Blake shot the society matrons who were openly staring a scathing look before replying quietly but firmly.
"Cecil had a heart condition long before Alexis ever came back to Denver. Sean Rowan was a murderer and international terrorist; he deserved everything he got after what he put my family through. Mark Jennings was murdered because he double crossed his fellow conspirator."
"And Dex did he deserve to suffer?"
"No but I think you are deliberately placing all the blame at Alexis's door rather than face the truth."
"What truth?" Sable demanded.
"That you yourself are equally guilty." Blake argued hotly now not caring who heard them; perhaps the experience of having others overhear her dirty laundry would sober Sable slightly.
"If Alexis arranged it all then in your mind that lets you off the hook. Admit it Sable if you had stayed in California, not come looking for revenge on Jason then none of this would have happened, or even if you had steered clear of Dexter not pursuing him when he was clearly involved with Alexis…"
"You dare to accuse me…" Sable gasped.
"I am just trying to get you to see that the issue isn't so clear cut, Alexis swears she had nothing to do with this and I believe her, this was a tragic accident and if anyone is to blame it is Adam alone for losing his temper and lunging for Dexter."
"Adam who is conveniently absent." Sable sneered shifting in her seat, gathering her fur stole around her shoulders before signaling the waitress for the bill.
Sighing Blake tried one last time to reason with her.
"Adam who also ended up pushing Alexis off that balcony, you saw them together do really think Adam could have deliberately done that to his own mother?"
"I wouldn't put it past him." Sable spat spitefully. "They are like two peas in a pod, Adam and Alexis what a rotten pair." She added opening her purse and blindly throwing down fifty dollars which would more than cover her bill.
"Well I know my son, he may have done some rotten things in the past but it was all for family, trying to protect us, trying to win our love and approval. Adam could no more push his mother off that balcony than he could me." Blake insisted reaching out to catch her wrist as she stood.
"I wouldn't put that past him either!" Sable retorted wrenching her wrist free.
"I'm not going to get though to you am I?" Blake muttered his dark eyes locked sadly with Sable's, his eyes holding her in place more securely than any iron grip could. "You're determined to see this through to the bitter end, no matter who gets hurt in the process."
Softening slightly at the sight of his pain Sable paused.
"I never meant for this to hurt you Blake, you have to believe me. You know how deeply I value our friendship. I once thought—hoped there might be more between us, that there still could be…"
Sable trailed off reaching out for Blake's hand her soft expression hardening when he shook off her hand in disgust.
"Not enough to trust me, not enough to let this vendetta go." Blake retorted getting to his feet. "It is clear how far your feelings for me go Sable."
Angered by his rejection Sable hissed back. "Blake I am doing this for all our sakes, when you get out from under the spell that witch has cast on you, you'll agree with me—you'll thank me."
Shaking his head Blake stepped back as if seeing her for the first time, perhaps Jeff had been right all along; perhaps Sable was not his friend and never had been.
"I'm warning you Sable this has to stop; you think you have a robust case against Alexis, fine. Go to the police and see what they make of your little fantasy. No more of this underhand assignation attempts in the newspapers…Or are you afraid to?"
"I'm frightened of nothing Blake, not you and certainly not Alexis!" Sable retorted. "Now if you'll excuse me…"
"I didn't mean frightened of us, although I think you should be when I tell Alexis what I know; no I meant frightened of yourself." Blake countered his voice gathering strength as he came to the heart of the matter.
"Frightened of telling your story, of having the police look into it and of having to face the truth that it is nothing more than the delusions of a woman who cannot face facts. Of finally having to accept you own guilt in this matter; that is what truly frightens you Sable that is why you cling to this conspiracy theory of yours."
Gathering her stole and wrapping herself in it as if she were pulling together her tattered dignity Sable turned to leave, firing off one parting shot over her shoulder. "The only one delusional here is you Blake, believing anything that woman says. One day you'll realise that, I just hope for your sake it is not too late when you do."
And with that she strode out of the patisserie ignoring the stares of half of Denver's society. Leaving Blake to wonder and worry if he hadn't just made a volatile situation worse?
---
Part 6:
---
Breathing deeply Alexis gritted her teeth and bit back the curse words that sprang immediately to mind.
"Come on now Mrs Colby, a few more lifts."
Grunting as she imagined accidentally dropping the dumbbells on her nurse's feet, Alexis reluctantly complied. Finally able to set the weights down Alexis all but collapsed exhausted.
"Now over to the parallel bars."
Groaning Alexis wheeled over to the twin bars of doom. Accepting the nurse's assistance to stand Alexis felt her arms shake as they supported her weight.
"Try stepping forward."
Exhaling Alexis forced her right leg to move, panting with the effort she lifted her left and took another step.
"Very good Mrs Colby keep going."
Determined Alexis kept going, elated when she made it halfway. However before she could get any further Gerard interrupted knocking on the door.
"Mrs Colby please forgive the interruption…I'm afraid the police are here, they have asked to speak to you."
Collapsing back into her chair Alexis reached for her towel, patting the sweat off of her neck and forehead.
"They are waiting for you in the living room." Gerard added, concern marring his brow. "Is there anyone you want me to call?"
Surprised by his genuine concern Alexis smiled gently. "No thank you Gerard, tell them I will be with them in a moment."
However once the butler left Alexis felt her confidence ebb. She knew she was innocent, that the accusations in the papers were all lies but she had been falsely accused before. Had been imprisoned and convicted of a crime she hadn't committed. It had shaken her faith in justice, and even though she had finally been freed, the feeling of helplessness had stayed with her.
"Mrs Colby…"
Looking up at her nurse Alexis forced a breezy smile on to her face, her patented Alexis Colby armor. It seemed enough to convince her nurse who left with a reassuring smile.
Closing her eyes for a moment to collect her thoughts, Alexis steeled herself. Then with grim determination she wheeled her chair towards the living room. Yet for all her courage she was unable to quell the fear bubbling up inside her, and she wished that Blake could be here.
---
Whilst Alexis faced an interrogation downstairs, upstairs Krystina was undergoing a grilling of a different type.
"I told you before Krystina, you need to place your dirty clothes in the hamper. The staff are not here to keep your room tidy and they cannot vacuum with all your things on the floor…"
Biting her lip Krystina kept her eyes locked on the floor, tuning out Fallon's lecture.
"Are you even listening to me?" Fallon demanded.
Shrugging Krystina fiddled with the cuff of her shirt.
"Fine then you can stay in here until this room is clean." Fallon insisted throwing her hands up in frustration, before storming out of her little sisters room.
Fighting back angry tears Krystina threw herself down on her bed, burrowing her head into her pillow. Determined to stay like that as long as necessary; at least until Daddy came home and told Fallon off for being so bossy.
After a few minutes there was a tentative knock on her door. Thinking it might be her father Krystina rushed to open it, disappointed to find only Gerard telephone in hand.
"Excuse me Miss Krystina, I have a Mrs Sable Colby o the phone."
"For me?" Krystina asked excitedly, relieved that least one grown-up still seemed to care. Eagerly taking the phone she sank to the floor.
"Sable?"
"Hello Krystina darling." Sable purred down the phone. "How are you?"
"Alright I guess." Krystina muttered sullenly. "When are you coming to see me?"
Sighing Sable said sadly. "Oh darling I only wish I could but…"
"But what?" Krystina cried disappointed.
"I'm afraid your daddy isn't very happy with me at the moment, I don't think he would like it if I visited."
"Why not…Daddy likes you to I know he does…What happened?"
"Well he and I had a falling out about Alexis."
"Fallon's mummy?" Krystina asked her young brow scrunched in concentration as she tried to figure out why the pretty dark haired lady would make Sable and her daddy fight.
"The very same." Sable retorted her voice tinged with contempt. "I am very angry with her because she hurt a dear friend of mine."
"But that's naughty." Krystina insisted crossly. "Mummy said its mean to hurt people, and only nasty people do that. Why is Daddy angry at you and not her?"
Pausing for a moment before answering Sable said. "Well I told you daddy but he doesn't believe me."
"But you never fib!"
"I know that and you know that, and even though Alexis always lies your Daddy believes her over me?"
Pouting angrily Krystina stamped her foot. "That's silly, I'll talk to Daddy when he gets home…"
"No you musn't Darling." Sable cut in. "Anyway he wouldn't believe you either." She added muttering bitterly. "Not whilst Alexis has him under her spell."
"A spell like a witch?" Krystina gasped unable to believe that there was a real witch living under her roof.
For a moment Sable stayed silent as if weighing the possibilities, before saying. "That is exactly what she is. A wicked witch who has placed an enchantment on your Daddy, and if she thought you were trying to tell him the truth I would hate to think what she might do to you Darling."
"Would she turn me into a frog?" Krystina asked fearfully. "Or try to bake me in her oven like Gretel?"
"She might." Sable lied. "That is why you have to be very careful and very clever. Never stay in a room alone with her, don't talk to her if you can help it."
Twisting the telephone cord around her fingers Krystina chewed nervously on her lip, her bright young mind already plotting. "If I can get her to leave, will it break the spell on Daddy?…Will he let you come back?"
"I'm sure he would." Sable replied smugly, unable to keep the glee from her tone that she had found herself a powerful ally. "You'll have to be very strong and brave."
"I can do it, I promise." Krystina promised faithfully.
"Well I have to go now Darling. Stay safe, I'll call you as soon as I can."
"I will. Goodbye Sable." Krystina said, setting her phone down. Her sharp young mind already focused on one thing. How was she going to make Alexis Colby want to leave?
---
It was almost mid afternoon when Blake's limousine pulled up in front of the mansion. He had spent the drive agonizing over how he was going to tell Alexis what he had learnt; the last thing he wanted was Alexis to fly into one of her tempers, or embark on one of her vendettas.
Gerard opened the door before he got to it and from the look on his butler's face Blake could tell something was wrong.
"Where is Mrs Colby?"
"She's in the living room sir…The Police arrived about half an hour ago."
Cursing his own stupidity Blake strode though the house. He should have known how Sable would react; she was at her most dangerous when backed into a corner, but he had never expected her to actually go to the police with her insane accusations. Nearing the living room he could easily hear Alexis's raised voice, and could tell from the way her pitch rose at the end of her sentence that she was nearing the end of her tether.
"I've already told you what happened. I don't see what going over it again is going to achieve?"
"Mrs Colby we are asking you to cooperate or would you prefer to do this downtown?"
"Planning on charging her officer?" Blake demanded, his own temper barely in check as he stepped into the room.
"Blake thank God." Alexis exclaimed in relief. "Will you please tell these gentlemen I am not making this up."
Crossing the room Blake came to stand behind her, squeezing her shoulder reassuringly.
"Do you have any information on your son's whereabouts Mr Carrington?"
"No Officer I do not." Blake answered honestly, his annoyance growing as the other cop shook his head.
"Would you even tell us if you did Carrington?" His partner scoffed, earning himself a baleful glare from Blake.
"I am not in habit of lying officer."
Snorting something that sounded suspiciously like, "Course not" the officers shared a look.
Bristling at such open contempt Blake had to bite his tongue, this was about protecting Alexis and loosing his temper would achieve little. "I don't think this should continue until Mrs Colby has appropriate legal counsel."
"I wasn't aware Mrs Colby had anything to hide…"
"Why you…"
"Blake."
"Mr Carrington." Gerard's voice cut across the brewing argument, and his interruption was out of character that for a moment Blake stared at him in shock.
"Please forgive the interruption, but there is something you need to see." And with that he crossed the room; switching on the television and flicking the channel to the local news station.
"And a repeat of our breaking story…" A pretty blonde newsreader announced.
"Earlier reports have now been confirmed. Adam Carrington first born son of oil giants Blake Carrington and Alexis Colby has handed himself into police custody in Montana…We now cross live to Montana and Bob Stevens our reporter on the scene.
"Bob do you have anything new to tell us?"
"Thank you Sue…Yes shortly before his arrest Mr Carrington made this public statement…"
Blake watched as the picture switched from the bearded reported to a grainer recording, where a pale faced Adam appeared in front of the police station, paper in hand to read a prepared statement.
"Oh god Adam." Alexis gasped at her son's gaunt appearance, reaching up grip Blake's hands.
"I Adam Carrington am handing myself willingly into police custody. I am prepared to face the accusations leveled against me. I am not prepared to say more at this time. However there is one matter that must be clarified. I alone should face charges; the accusations, vile insinuations being bandied in the press tarnishing my mother's good name are false and utterly without substance. I thank you for your time and consideration."
With that parting statement Adam broke off, ignoring the shouted questions from the assembled press as he walked hand in hand with Dana into the police station. With the statement over the picture returned to the newsroom.
Turning off the television Blake glared at the suddenly sheepish officers.
"If that is all gentlemen, Gerard will be happy to escort you out."
It wasn't really a request and they both knew it, sloping out of the room with a muted, "We'll be I touch."
The moment the door closed behind them Blake lifted Alexis out of her chair and over to the couch. She hadn't spoken, her eyes still locked on the darkened television. Yet she allowed Blake to pull her close, gripping his arm with an almost vice like intensity.
"Darling it's alright." Blake whispered into her hair, before kissing her forehead as he held her tight. "They can't hurt you anymore…The Chronicle will print a retraction in the morning."
"We've got to help him Blake." Alexis insisted not caring about anything but her son.
"We will Alexis, we'll do whatever we can." Blake replied reassuringly.
Yet as Alexis sighed in relief and buried herself deeper into his embrace; Blake couldn't help but wonder what on earth they could actually do.
---