Location: The Glam.
Erica is getting her hair and highlights touched up. Her and Opal are chatting about this and that. When Opal looks at Erica and sees a troubled look on her face.
" So what're ya' thinkin about so hard anyway hon'?" Opal finally asks after a moment of trying to figure it out herself.
" Oh, nothing Opal really." Erica replies sounding more frustrated than chatty.
" Really it don't sound like nothin' to me. You frown anymore and you're gonna be more wrinkled than a raisin. Now tell me what is it Erica?"
Erica finally lets out a sigh and still looking strained. " It's my children Opal. They've clearly got it in for me. Kendall is allowing that awful Annie woman to spoon feed Ryan Thanksgiving dinner. Instead of being with his son on the holiday. And Josh said he and Babe want to tell me something. I can only guess she's pregnant or their getting married. I dread the thought. She emphasizes on the last part. Then theres Bianca she has a new 'friend' whose coming to dinner. And ugh, she told me that she reminds her of Frankie Stone that thieving trollup. Then Kendall told me that she looks like a sarcastic double of Maggie just to add to it all." Erica confesses her problems looking to Opal for some kind of advice.
" Well this news Josh and Babe have will atleast be good news Erica. Two people havin' a kid or gettin' hitched ain't exactly a sign o' the apocolypse." Opal informs her friend.
" I suppose you're right Opal." Erica sighs again.
" Now theres nuthin' you can do about Kendall so just leave it be." Opal advises.
" Yes I know." Erica agrees while Opal feathers her hair.
" Now as for Bianca does this new friend have a name?" Opal inquires.
" Michelle Pierce, Mickie is what everyone is calling her."
" Well, now isn't that the doctor lady that was on the news? And didn't she discover the cause of the virus was tainted drugs?"
" Yes, Opal shes a real genius. Just wonderful. Erica scoffs.
Opal flings Erica's chair around to face her. " I don't think this about that nice doctor that Bianca is datin' this is about you Erica."
Erica looks aghast at her friend.
********************
Setting: Same episode.
Location: Pine valley hospital.
Josh is now on-call and desperately trying to lower J.R. and the mysterious drug dealers temperature. " Okay folks lets wrap them in cooling sheets and apply these ice packs to their foreheads." he orders.
The nameless man is delirious from fever. He is halucinating and begins to babble. " No, no their all dead I go...I gotta leave town. Always running never free always running from that woman and her talking. she can't talk to them about me."
" He's delirious but we can't sedate him until we're sure. We won't have to dunk him in the ice water Dr. Madden." A nurse states.
" What is his fever now nurse?" He inquires.
" 104.5 and from the looks of it rising Dr. Madden." The nurse answers.
" It's the same with this one as soon as it goes down. It shoots right back up again." another nurse comments.
" No, no shooting don't wanna shoot her. I can't.. don't make me." the delirious man screams out almost terrified.
" Well that leaves us no choice but to take a chapter out of Dr. Pierces book. And dip'em." Josh states.
"Dip me where? What are you morons gonna do to me?" J.R. regains consciousness long enough to ask. In a snide but weak voice. Before passing out again.
" You certainly won't remember even if I told you." Josh replies to deaf ears.
" Okay lets go get suited up and see if we can make this work." Josh orders.
********************
Meanwhile our dear Dr. Pierce appears to be lurking outside Opals house. " Well now to find a way in that no one will notice. She looks around. Can't go through the downstairs window, You don't wanna use the front door for obvious reasons. She nods her head looking up. I guess I'll go up and ." Mickie says to herself jumping up and grabbing hold of a tree branch.
*********************
Back at the Glam. Erica and Opal are having a meeting of the minds. That isn't really meeting at all.
" What do you mean this is about me and not Bianca. I'm not dating that con artist look- alike." Erica defends herself.
" Oh, come on Erica I've known you too long to buy this hooey you're sellin' "
" What are you talking about?''
" Just admit it already you love all your children fiercely. But you can't stand seein' them happy for one second. Especially...I hate to say it but you seem to be worst when it comes to Bianca's love life." Opal continues to look at Erica with a rather perterbed expression on her face.
" Thats not true Opal!" Erica exclaims.
" Oh, isn't it, ya' paid one of her friends to leave town. You tried your darndest to get Frankie run outta town. Let me tell you somethin' I saw Bianca at the store yesterday and she had a look on her face that I..." Opal pauses afraid of Erica's reaction to the rest of her statement.
" That you what? Opal you might as well finish your lecture." Erica says angrily.
" Alright I'll tell you but you're not gonna like it." Opal warns.
" Well, out with it already Opal."
" I only ever saw that look on her face that self confindent smile on her face. When she was with...Opal pauses briefly Frankie."
The anger and irritation drains from Erica's face as she gets a wide eyed stare.
___________________________________________________________
Chapter 4a.
Mickie is crawling through a window. Upon further view it is the window of Frankie's old room. Just as she is almost in the room she loses her footing and nearly falls. "Well that was fun. She says to herself brushing dead leaves off her coat. Whoa, Man Opal didn't change this place around much huh? I wonder if....nah its stupid. Then again. She tilts her head to a drawer of the dresser. Walking over and opening it. then reaching her hand up above the actual drawer. she pulls something out. I can't believe nobody found this. a metal drawer rack is like the first place I'd look for any evidence in a murder investigation. Wow the police here are really idiots. She holds the book in her hands. No one ever even knew I had a journal though so who would they look for one." She added.
Having found something the woman thought to have been lost forever. " I'm glad I found this I couldnt risk it being found now." She says to herself then walks over to the nightstand. She glances at the bed and smiles remembering the morning after the night Bianca had stayed over. She flashes back to waking up next to the girl and watching her sleep. How peaceful she had felt inside at that moment. Then pretending to sleep just as the girl woke up. So she could hold her without being caught. " I wanted us to be that way forever Bianca. Then instead of telling you my stupid problem I pretended to cheat on you. It was to keep you safe but I still feel like it was the wrong way to do things." She says to herself. Then she smiles slightly removing another book from her pocket.
" I hope you can figure it out B?" Mickie ( Frankie) says hopefully. She hears footsteps at that moment she put the book on the stand table and ducks out the window.
closing in on the book we see it is the book of sonnets. Like the one Frankie had given Bianca along with a letter saying goodbye to her. Just not a final goodbye like she had thought.
______________________________________________________________
Pine valley hospital
Josh and a team of other nurses and doctors are dipping J.R. Chandler and the drug dealer in cold water. In an effort to bring their fever down.
Moments after. " Their temperature's are dropping Dr. Madden." A nurse informs him.
" Good now lets get them outta that cold water and into I.C.U. and hooked back up to heart monitors. And I want their vitals and temperature taken every two hours. I'm also going to up the dosage on their meds by a hundred miligrams." He orders.
" Yes Dr. Madden right away." The nurse nods.
They get the men back on stretchers and haul them up to ICU.
" My mothers Thanksgiving should be a cake walk compared to this." He thinks aloud in the now empty room.
******************
Meanwhile at the Glam.
" And Frankie poor kid had that same lovestruck starry eyed look in her eyes. Not that she didn't
try an' hide it from me though." Opal finishes hesitantly.
" Oh, yes she was so in love with my daughter that she just had to share with J.R. Chandler. That cockroach just don't get me started on either one of them Opal."
" Now look here Erica what Frankie did wasn't to hurt Bianca. She was confused and had a lapse in judgement. Which you oughta know a thing or two about can make ya' do some pretty confusin' things sometimes." Opal states almost as if she knows something more that Erica doesn't about a comb in her right hand as she speaks.
" You and Bianca have teamed up haven't you? Erica moans. She told me the exact same thing about Frankie a few days ago. My children are out to get me."
" Yes Erica their getting revenge on you for bein' their mother. Simply by bein' happy." Opal rolls her eyes.
" I suppose it does sound a little far fetched."
'' You bet your heels it does. Ya' know here's a radical thought but maybe you could play nice. For their sake and try to get along with this Mickie person and Babe." Opal suggests.
'' Well I can try for them. You'll be there to step on my heels if they get too high won't you?" Erica asks.
" Of course I will, Now if you're finished with your tyrade maybe we can finish your hair." Opal comments.
Erica smiles coyly " Yes Opal go ahead and finish."
*****************
Note there is scene I added in this section that wasn't shown on tv the night of F/B sleepover.
Bianca is walking up the stairs of Opals house just after Mickie ducked out the window. She comes to the door of Frankie's old room. Takes a deep breath and opens the door to walk into the room. And remembers the night of their sleepover when she had come in and Frankie had grbbed her in fierce hug. flashback: "Oh!, well this a suprise. Bianca says in response of Frankies hug.
"Bianca I'm so sorry I swear I didn't mean any of that stuff. I like you really I do.'' A sobbing Frankie confesses.
" I like you too Frankie. I didn't mean to be so mean to you. It's just that I dont think I can handle losing another person I really care about in my life. And my moms on the war path....''Frankie cuts Bianca off with a small unexpected kiss on the lips.
Then stops quickly with fear in her eyes. Bianca's eyes are still closed savoring the moment. " Frankie what was that?" She asked both curious and confused.
" It was just a kiss don't read into it, I said I care about you." Frankie replies trying so hard to hold back her feelings.
Bianca not mentally brushing it off. But not wanting to drive the girl off. " Okay, well do you want me to stay? Or should I go?"
Frankie hesitates. " No I don't wanna be alone ,I want you to stay."
" Alright ,I'll get a sleeping bag out of Opal's closet." Bianca states still kind of in shock over the brief lip lock.
" No, you're sleeping with me....'' Bianca looks at her strangely. ''I mean you can sleep in my bed. We are just friends its not like it matters. '' Frankie tries to rephrase. Then grinning one of her mischievious grins. ''Unless of course you hog the covers."
Bianca rolls her eyes. " Oh, right, funny Frankie no I don't hog the covers. then also grinning. Wait you don't snore do you?"
" Not as far as I know." Frankie says back.
" Well alright then I'll just put on my jammies. And I'll be right back.'' Bianca says heading to the bathroom.
Then as they settle into bed. " Goodnight Frankie." Bianca says settling into her side of the bed.
" Wait, before I say goodnight I just have to know?"
" Know what Frankie?" Bianca inquires trying to get comfy.
rolling over to face the girl Frankie grins." Are you and your 'jammies' comfortable?"
" Haha, very funny Frankie." Bianca throws a pillow at her playfully.
" Oh, Biancala you are so gonna pay for that." Frankie taunts then she throws a pillow at Bianca starting an all out war. Of the fun variety.
Bianca comes slowly back to the present smiling at the memory. " What am I doing here I must be crazy, Frankie if you were here. she looks up. I know you'd tell me I'd gone as crazy as the rest of this town."
************
Unbeknownst to Bianca ,Mickie was listening outside the window. " I don't think your crazy B. I'm the one in the tree. I knew you'd come here thats why I left you a present. She says to herself hopping out of the large old tree. I left so Aunty Nessa wouldn't get her old claws in you too. I got another chance I'll do my damndest not to blow it." She thinks outloud as she walks off.
***************
Back inside Opals house Bianca is now seated on the bed. She remembers waking up next to Frankie the next day and seeing Frankie wrap her sleepy arms around her. Bianca pretended to sleep a little longer. " I remember how safe I felt in your arms Frankie. I've never felt that way with anyone else, ever.. just as she gets up to leave she notices a book on the nightstand. " I'll put this up for Opal. She grabs the book then realizes what it is. A book of Shakespear sonnets like the one Frankie left me. Who left this here?" Bianca took the book and put it in her purse knowing Opal wasn't a Shakespeare fan anyway. And left the house.
*****************
Elsewhere, At the Glam Mickie walks in and knowing where everythings at. Heads for the Breakroom Just as Erica is headed out. She almost runs into Mickie " Oh, excuse me." The woman says brushing her way past Mickie and out the front door. She lurks outside the breakroom door and overhears Opal talking to herself " Oh, you can bet I'll be there Erica with bells on. somebodies gotta tell ya' how it is fer your kids sakes."
Then Mickie leans on the door enough to open it. Snickering to herself " I hope you won't really be wearing bells Opal it's not exactly fashion conscious these days." The woman says still snickering.
Long pause.
Opal suprised whips around to see the figure standing in her door. " Who the hay are you? Were you listenin' in on my private conversation? "
Mickie folds her arms and arches an eyebrow " What if I was? and since when is talking to yourself a conversation?"
"It was my private words and you were nosey enough to listen. And I think you and I have a problem, Opal snaps. Now get outta here before I call the cops and have your butt hauled off." She threatens wide eyed.
All this seems to amuse Mickie further. " Oh, come on Opal how many times can you kick me out? Honestly I'm insulted."
" Who are you? How do you know my name anyway?"
Mickie then picks up a broom and begins sweeping the floor. Much to Opals astonishment. " You mean you don't remember me. How many other delinquent kids have you kicked out of your house?" Mickie smarts.
Opal puts a hand to her chest in shock as a thought hits her. " Mary-Francis? Is that you?"
"Well it ain't my double, I hear she's in gay Parie these days. Mickie(Frankie) grins putting the broom back against a wall. Then adds. I thought I told you I didn't like that name."
" Oh, my God I don't believe this, Opal walks over to the woman and hugs her tightly. As a mother would a lost child that had returned. Frankie is shocked by the sudden show of affection she just wasn't used to being treated with kindness. Opal pulls away and looks her over from short hair to faded jeans and tennis shoes. Well you're lookin' good these days kiddo."
" I guess for a dead person. She shruggs. I'm not a kid anymore Opal."
" Well ya' still act like one. Opal teases. So why are ya' here in Pine Valley? I thought you couldn't come back here again. Because of the protection thingy."
" Well, I didn't think I could either. But then Aunt 'Nessa was killed when she took herself and my cousin over the falls. And at that point I had testified against every one of her drug smugglers. except for one he got away. And they told me if I agreed to testify against the guy when he's recaptured I was free to go on with life." Frankie explained. So I went to school and I was told I either had to transfer to San Francisco or Pine Valley. I chose Pine Valley. "
" I see, Opal says looking like shes thinking. So what are you doin' fer money now?" Opal questions.
" What.. you don't know? Opal don't you watch the news. I'm Dr. Mickie Pierce."
______________________________________________________________________
Chapter 4b.
" Oh, well I guess you really did clean up your act congratulations. Then it hits her and her mouth drops almost to the floor. So you're the one Erica was rantin' and ravin' about. That Bianca's takin' to Thanksgivin'."
" Yep, She even gave me an invitation. Frankie(Mickie) smiles sarcastically. I thought about having it framed ya' know for posterity."
" Now that's not funny Frankie. You know how Erica is she'll practily unspool when she finds out. Who you really are more than she is now just because you're seein' her daughter." Opal says suddenly serious.
" Yeah, I know but its fun right now. Besides maybe I can get her to like me this time around." Frankie comments.
" So when are ya' gonna tell Bianca?"
" Tell me what? oh, Mickie I didn't know you knew Opal?" Bianca says to a bewildered Opal and who she thinks is just Mickie.
" Uhh.. actually I really don't know her I was just making a..."" Mickie is cut off by Opal who finishes the explanation.
" A hair appointment and I recognised her from the t.v. announcement she made. "
" Oh, I see. Bianca blushes remembering what Mickie had done. The night she was on the news. So what is it you have to tell me?" Bianca looks at the both of them.
Opal and Mickie look at each other like children. who got caught with their hands in cookie jar.
" That I'll come for Thanksgiving but I'm gonna be on-call and Might not be able to stay. I just found out I'm so sorry."
" Oh, hey thats okay, you have a virus to cure you don't need to apologize. You will be there for awhile though won't you?" Bianca inquires.
" Sure will, I have to meet your family don't I? besides I can't wait to see what you're gonna be wearing." Mickie(Frankie) replies with a smirk.
" You sweet talker, Bianca smiles then looks at the older woman. Opal you're coming too aren't you?"
Opal crosses her arms as though deep in thought. " I wouldn't miss it for the world Bianca darlin trust me." She answers cryptically.
" Bianca, I've been meaning to ask. Should I bring something.. like food wise?"
" No you don't have to cook its pretty much all catered. So get that worried look off your face." Bianca giggles.
" Oh, phew that's a load off." Mickie breathes a mock sigh of relief.
'' You might wanna consider a cross and some holy water though." Bianca adds.
" Because of your mom you mean?"
"Exactly"
" Erica was in here earlier I wouldn't worry too much. I gave her a nice talkin' to." Opal comments.
" Well I need to go home I am seriously bushed." Mickie yawns.
"Okay I'll see you later."
" You know it." Mickie walks toward the doors.
" That'll be Wednesday at three for the appointment." Opal chimes in trying to keep Frankie's cover.
" Right see ya' then, It was nice meeting you." Mickie then leaves.
Opal turns to Bianca. " Now what can I do for you Bianca?"
______________________________________________________________________
Chapter 4c.
We go now to Derek Frye who has spotted a homeless looking man. The man is seated on the ground next to a tree. " Okay I've got him sighted queue officer Mendez." Derek whispers into a small microphone on his coat collar. Derek watches the undercover officer walk over to the man.
" Hey, Buddy you a...look like you could use a hot meal or perhaps a drink." The officer says suggestively to the homeless man.
" What's it to you? I don't even know you."
" Well a friend of mine said that you know a guy who's got some primo stuff." The cop pushes.
" I might but it'll cost ya." The man raises his head.
" I got money to spare." The cop pulls a fifty dollar bill out of his pocket and waves it in front of him.
The homeless man eyes the money. " What is it you want? Crack, meth, heroin, pot name your poison.
Derek still observing from a bench whispers into his microphone. " Alright now get the name and then arrest him for assisting the sale of an illegal substance."
The poor man anxiously grabs at the money being waved in front of him. "Not so fast, The cop before I make any arrangements with your guy. I want a name and then you get your money."
" He doesn't wish to have that information given out."
" Well then I'll just take my money somewhere else. Have a good day." The cop coaxes by pretending to walk away.
The homeless man looks as if he's mulling over his decision for a moment. Then shouts " Hey wait, Okay I'll give you a name."
" It had better be his real name." The cop replies.
" It's the only one he's ever told me to call him."
" Well then what is it before I change my generous nature and leave, With my money." The cop states playing into the role.
" His name is Levi." The man answers nervously.
" Does this Levi have a last name as well?" the cop questions further tossing the money at him.
" I'm sure he does but he never mentioned it to me. What's it matter to you anyway?"
The cop smiles knowingly " Because he says flashing a badge. I need to know lives depend on it."
The homeless man tries to run but the cop detains him. " Alright I tried to be nice but now you're ubder arrest for assisting in the sale of an illegal substance and if you don't hold still I'll add resisting arrest to the charge."
Derek walks over and begins reading the man his rights. " You have the right to remain silent anything you do or say will held against you in court of law. You have the right to an attorney if you cannot afford an attorney the tax payers will provide you with one. Youo also have the right to a phone call. You'd also better have him checked out he could be infected." Derek states to the arresting officer as if trying to scare the man into talking.
" Infected with what? What have I been exposed to?" The homeless man asks in a panic.
" Oh, nothing really just that virus that's been going around, You do any dope in the past forty-eight hours?" Derek questions.
" So what if I did? And what virus are you talkin' about?"
" Boy, for someone who lives on the street you sure miss alot. " Derek replies.
" Well then you just bought yourself a trip to the emergency room curtesy of your friend. Let's go." The cop pulls the man towards the unmarked car with Derek close behind.
______________________________________________________________________
" I went up to Frankie's old room at your house. Like I do whenever I want to be alone to think I hope you don't mind?" Bianca confesses.
" Why would I mind darlin' you can go up there anytime you want. I told you that a long time ago." Opal regards.
" Well while I was up there before I left I noticed a book on the nightstand. And it was a book of poetry by Shakespeare like the one Frankie gave me."
" Well, maybe its yours from the last time you were up there. Opal covers then acting as though she is thinking. Actually I seem to recall the maid saying somethin' about a girl leavin' somethin' in that particular room." Opal tries to convince Bianca.
" You know what maybe you're right I mean I have had alot on my mind lately. Maybe I just spaced it well anyway Bianca shakes her head as if to dust out the cobwebs. You met my date I see, so do you like her ?"
" I think she is a..a very nice girl. She does have kinda' a smart mouth though, not that she's mean or anything. Its just ya' might wanna have a talk with her about that before she meets Erica." Opal suggest.
" I guess so but I think she's funny. Well anyway I've gotta go I just thought I'd come by real quick and ask you about the book. But I have to go pick up Miranda from playgroup, So I'll see you on Thanksgiving Opal." Bianca waves as she walks out the door. Opal also waves and as soon as Bianca is out the door breathes a sigh of relief.
*************
" Man I forgot how crazy life is in this town." Frankie says coming back in.
" I thought you left to get some sleep? "
" I'm goin' to Frankie sighs frustratedly. You're starting to sound like Bianca she keeps mothering me too. When the hospital was quarantined. She called me every night to make sure I wasn't working too hard."
" Well, now isn't that somethin' you got her fallin' for ya all over again. But is it a con this time too Frankie or do you actually like Bianca of your own free will?"
*************************
long pause.
" Opal how can you ask me that. When I've done all this just to prove I can be what..who she needs. And f.y.i. I love Bianca with everything this whole time I couldn't even be with anyone else." Frankie explains.
" Well, alright just don't you go and break her heart again. You hear me missy or I'll kick your be-hind right outta here." Opal states not in a mean tone.
" Oooh, like that scares me." Frankie holds up here hands in mock defense. I really do have to go now though. Somehow bein' in a hospital for sixty hours doesn't exactly make you more alert." Frankie yawns.
" I just wanna tell ya your secrets safe with me. As long as you promise to tell Bianca who you really are alright." Opal shakes a finger at her.
" I so solemly swear that I will do so, as soon as she likes me for who I am now." Frankie raises a right hand. Besides I don't exactly know...how do you tell someone your new girlfriend. Is really your old dead one anyway. I don't wanna push her over the edge Opal."
"Well that's a good point Frankie. It did take Bianca months to get over you the last time. And actually I don't think she was ever completely over I'm glad to see you have her best interest at heart. I'll see you on Thanksgivin'. I am very glad ya' cleaned your act up though."
" Thanks Opal for everything, I'll see ya' on D-day." Frankie jokes as she walks out the door. Oh, and Opal I always did have her best interest at heart."
" Yeah, I know Frankie now get outta here." with that Frankie leaves.
________________________________________________________________________
Chapter 4c.
Later that evening at Bianca's apartment she is tucking Miranda into bed. " Good night sweetheart." She tells her daughter.
" Goodnight mommy." Miranda says closing her eyes and falling asleep.
Bianca smiles and leaves the room. Walking into the living room she walks over to the couch. Seeing that her purse has been knocked over she sighs and bends down. To pick up everything that has fallen out of it. She parts hair that has come over her eyes and see's the book of sonnets.
" Alright, well I suppose a little light reading might make me tired. she says in a low voice to herself. Wait a minute this isn't my copy. My book has Frankies initials in it." She says turning the pages rapidly. Bianca walks over to her bookshelves to make sure and there her copy of the sonnets are there.
" Oh, my God! who could've known this. Maggie wouldn't do something like this...so who?" She asks herself breathlessly. She sits down on her sofa and begins reading. awhile later she is halfway through a book she has read atleast a thousand times before. When she turns a page to find something that catches her eye. Flashback to when Maggie showed Bianca Frankies code.
" Let me see that?" Maggie asks quickly.
" Okay, Bianca hands her the book. You must think I'm such a freak for taking it everywhere I go."
" No, Well maybe, Maggie jokes. ''I'm only joking. '' they laugh as she examines the book."
" Why do you want to see it?''
" Theres no writing in here? Thats strange Frankie was always writing when we were kids. She used to write in the Margines it drove me crazy." Maggie explained.
" There isn't anything in there I've read that book atleast a hundred times already."
Then Maggie spots something running her hand over the page. Bianca gives her an odd look.
" Feel there's something here." Maggie insists.
Bianca grabs the book and runs her hand over the specified page. " Oh, yeah like little circles. What do you think it is?"
" When we were little our mom used to say quiet. No talking. So when Frankie wanted to tell me something she would circle the letters in a book. Then give it to me like a code or secret message or something."
Bianca reawakens to the present once more. " Little circles... she says to herself. Looking at the book reveals that an entire page has little pen circles on various letters. She gasps and gets up to get a pen and paper. " I don't believe this, I'm decoding a message from someone whose been dead for eight years. I've lost my mind." Bianca states litteraly. writing all the letters down. " Okay, a, b, a , i, l,n, a,l,v,e,i. so what does that spell? Bianca rearanges some of the letters and when she's finished. Her jaw almost hits the floor it drops so fast. "I'm alive Bianca-la." she states in amazement.
_______________________________________________________________________
Chapter 4d.
Mickie is in her Apartment sitting on the sofa. In a pair of white cotton shorts and a black undershirt. With a can of coke in one hand. A remote in the other watching tv almost wrestlessly. She can't stop thinking about Bianca. " Stop it girl keep it together. It's late you can't call her anyway." Mickie(Frankie) tells herself.
Then a thought hits her and she stands up. " Well, Stone you can't call her, but you can see her."
With that she runs off to get dressed more apropriately.
******************
Awhile later. Bianca has fallen asleep on the couch. With the book of sonnets on her head. She is suddenly startled out of a sound sleep by a knock on the door. She gets up and looks at her clock. " It's one a.m. she yawns. Who could that be?" she opens the door to find Mickie on the other side of it.
" Hey, gorgeous. She greets then seeing the sleep in Bianca's eye's. I didn't wake you did I?"
" Yeah, but it's okay. I wasnt really asleep, asleep come on in. But be quiet Miranda is sleeping. Bianca says putting a finger to her lips. To signal a low tone.
" Okay, Mickie walks in. Wow this is a nice place ya' got here." she comments.
" Thanks, To what do I owe this visit? it's one a.m., did you lose another patient? is there something else wrong?"
" Whoa, no, nothing like that Bianca I swear. I just was thinking about you and I... wanted to see you that's all."
" You were thinking about me? Bianca blushes Mickie nods. Really?" She smiles.
" Who else would I think about at one a.m. besides my...girlfriend ? " Mickie smiles sweetly.
" Oh, I see, I've gone from just somebody you met and date. To your girlfriend have I." Bianca teases flirtingly.
" Yep, And I just couldn't go one more second without telling you. So will you Bianca Montegomery be my girlfriend?" Mickie gets on one knee in mock proposal.
Bianca laughs at the womans proposal. " Yes, Yes I'll be your girlfriend get up from there."
" Yes, Mickie jumps up ecstatically and hugs Bianca .
" Shhh.. you're gonna wake up Miranda you goof." Bianca says also ecstatic and smiling.
" Well, I wouldn't wanna do that. 'Cuz then I couldn't do this." Mickie kisses her deeply.
They're happy moment is broken into by Bianca feeling a slight pull on her shirt tail. She looks down and see's Miranda looking back up at them. " Miranda honey what are doing up at this hour?"
" I couldn't sleep mommy. Mommy?"
" Yes honey what is it?"
" Why is mama Maggie here?" The child asks not knowing of course that. The woman in front of her mom was actually Frankie.
" Wow I've really gotta see a picture of those two sometime. I do look alot like the both of them for your daughter not to know the difference huh?"Mickie says playing dumb.
" Trust me the resemblance is remarkable. But..still Bianca bends down. Miranda this isn't Maggie, this is Dr. Pierce you remember she gave you. Your cast and the lollipop?"
" Oh, okay, Mommy can you read me another story?"
" Yeah, sure dear."
" I'd better go it's late anyway." Mickie heads to the door.
Miranda whispers something in Bianca's ear. " Oh, I don't know honey, I'll see. Bianca stands. Mickie, Miranda wants to know if you'll stay and help me read her a story?"
" Uhmm..I, Mickie struggles knowing that if she doesn't. Bianca will not want a relationship with her because she isn't used to kids. Sure, why not. But I have to warn you I'm not very good at the whole storybook thing. "
" That's alright we'll teach you won't we Miranda?" Miranda shakes her head in agreement.
*************
A little later they are coming out of Miranda's room laughing. " Goodnight Miranda sleep tight." Bianca tells the child.
" Yeah, goodnight kiddo." Mickie also tells her.
They walk out into the living room. " You are so good with her and that was an interesting take on the three bears. Where did you come up with that?" Bianca asks putting her arms around Mickies neck.
" Well, I didn't really have my parents around alot. When I was Miranda's age so I had to improvise. I taught myself how to read. And I would stay awake at night and think what if they did this instead of that. I didn't even know people still read that book." Mickey explains rubbing her neck.
" I'll tell you right now thats one of Miranda's favorites. Bianca then grins. However my version won't be good enough now. You're gonna have to come over here and tell her that story. Everytime she can't sleep."
" Just call me and I'll try and be here." Mickie smiles.
" Alright you have yourself a story telling job." Bianca replies.
" You know there is one job I think I'd rather have."
" Oh, and what job is that?" Bianca asks shyly.
" The kissing you job it's my favorite job of all. And I'm very skilled allow me to demonstrate." Mickie smirks then puts a lip lock on Bianca.
" Well what do you think? am I hired?"
" You have the position when can you start?" Bianca teases.
" I thought I just did?" Mickie(Frankie) replies in a normal tone.
" You did? when?" Bianca smarts and grins anrily.
" Alright thats it. Mickie grabs Bianca and kisses her passionately. When they part. How was that then?" Mickie enquires breathlessly.
" Huh?" is all Bianca can manage breathless as well. Oh, right you're hired full time."
Mickie chuckles in a low tone so as not to disturb the child asleep in the next room. " You said that already, Whats the matter did I take your breath away?" She jokes.
Bianca just rolls her eyes. She just could not believe how like Frankie the girl was. Whenever the situation got too tough or emotional she went right for a joke. " Yeah, Mickie you took my breath away thats why I'm still I just couldn't think was all." Bianca played along.
"Well, Like I said before your scatter brain is safe with me. I'd better go it's like two a.m. now and I've gotta find my outfit. For tommorrow if I'm gonna convince your mom I'm good enough for ya'. " Mickie states heading for the door.
" Well do come back sometime." Bianca says opening the door for Mickie to leave. And thank you for helping me with Miranda."
" Like I said call me whenever you need me. I'll tell her my three little pig's story sometime. See you later..girlfriend." Mickie kisses Bianca's cheek and leaves.
" Bye." Bianca shuts the door and touches the part of her cheek. That Mickie had kissed then smiles again.
_______________________________________________________________________
Chapter 5a.
Thanksgiving. Everyone in Pine Valley is in a hustle to get where they have to go. To celebrate the holiday.
Mickie( Frankie) is running all over her apartment building. Seemingly looking for something. When a knock on the door catches her off-guard. " Oh, great thats Bianca! She exclaims breatheless from searching. Come on in it's unlocked. " She calls out.
The voice on the opposite side of the door says. "Okay.'' And Bianca walks in only to ghasp. Seemingly in shock she is wide eyed.
Just as Mickie is walking into her living room "Hey, Sorry I didn't come to the door. I couldn't find my other shoe." She tells Bianca holding the shoe up for proof.
" Well, I'm not suprised, Bianca replies. Mickie this place is a mess there are boxes everywhere. It's almost like you don't plan on staying here at all." Bianca says almost as if she's fishing for an answer.
After a long pause and an odd look from Mickie(Frankie). " Bianca, Mickie rolls her eyes. Where would you get a silly idea like that. Of course I'm staying I like it here. I just haven't had much time to unpack everything what..with a plague on and everything. ''
" Well okay but you seriously need to do something about...all this...this mess." Bianca gestures with her arms in the air.
" I'll start unpacking as soon as I get some time off. I promise but you know it won't change much. I'll still be a mess look I couldn't even find my shoe. It was still in the box." Mickie jokes.
" Other than that I'd say you look very nice in your pant suit with a vest instead of a sport coat." Bianca comments sweetly. Even if your socks don't match. " She points out.
" Oh, man. I'll be right back make yourself comfortable." Mickie groans heading for the bedroom.
" Okay I will, if I can find the couch." Bianca smarts lifting up a newspaper from the cushions.
" Very funny can't you see it? it's past the third dumpster just to the left of the ally cats." Mickie retorts. Walking back out. Okay all set. she sees Bianca eyeing the newspaper. Whatcha doin' ?"
" I was catching up my reading But this is a paper from like six years ago. Why do you have this paper? 'Testimony from an unknown source saves day in Vanessa courtland drug ring trial' She reads the old headline outloud then the story. An unknown source who claims to be a witness to drug trafficking testified today against several key crime lords. But they are still no closer to catching the center of the controversy Vanessa Courtland. Who is wanted for questioning in several murders and a kidnapping. To date she is suspected in the murders of several people and the kidnapping's of her own son Leo Dupres and niece Mary Margaret Stone. Though they are both alright. She is also wanted for the murder of her other niece. Mary Margaret Stone's twin sister Mary Francis Stone. The police are following several leads but nothing has turned up to date. I can't believe you have this Mickie. So what's the connection 'cuz there's something you arent telling me?"
Mickie seems positively horrified at the question she pales. " I told you I followed the story. I like all that murder mystery junk okay. I also had my lamp shades wrapped in it. Mickie covers quickly. I noticed the old article and I put it back together. Alright thats all Bianca I swear."
" Well okay if you say so. But there is something that you aren't telling Dr. Pierce." Bianca looks a little mysified still.
" Yes, Bianca I'm really an undercover agent for the FBI. That whole doctor thing is just a cover." She smarts.
Bianca laughs. " Oh, cute you're not funny." She says walking over to Mickie and placing her hands on the womans shoulders.
" Really, cuz I thought I was." She replies to the dark eyed woman.
" Whatever you think. Are you set to go?''
" Uhh, yeah lets go." the women both leave the apartment. For the family dinner.
****************
While Babe and Josh are having a conversation about even attending. The dinner in question.
" Come on we'll go for about an hour. Just to make an appearance and then we'll sneak out the back." Josh jokes.
Babe eyes him seriously. " Josh it's not that I don't want to go it's just your.."
" My mother I know...Josh finishes. But she already promised she'd be nice to you. Or I wouldn't have agreed to come. And besides she's fuming about Bianca's date this year not mine." Josh explains in a mature tone.
Babe raises an eyebrow. " Mickie? Why what's so terrible about her? I think she and Bianca go good together. Like I don't know they were meant to be or something. "
" Really? Dr. Pierce is Bianca's date? So thats who she was going on about yesterday." Josh Replies.
" Uhh yeah, You know Mickie? She was talking about Bianca what'd she say?" Babe asks out of curiosity.
" We work together. We're both doctors Babe. He says slightly chuckling under his breath. Anyway she was telling me about about this wonderful girl she was dating. I never even thought to put the two together. "
" I see, And do you two talk alot? About your girlfriends?''
" Why wouldn't we ? I like talking to her she's funny and I think thats exactly what Bianca needs. After all she's been through with Maggie and Zoe. Besides we like the same movies." Josh replies and puts his arms around Babe. Looking into her sparkling eyes.
Babe smiles. " You're so sweet. Well then I guess that settles it. We have to go now and protect your new best buddy and my old one. Especially if your mama's on the war path, I don't care what she promises something is bound to happen."
Josh gives her a small kiss on the lips and nods. " Alright then lets go." They grab their jackets and head off.
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Chapter 5b.
Setting: outside Zachs casino Bianca and Mickie are parked. And have stepped outside the car.
" So do you have your alias and change of face pales with shock. In case my mom
doesn't like you. " Bianca jokes seeing Mickie looking terrified. I'm only kidding."
Mickie laughs nervously. While inside breathing a sigh of relief that shows in her eyes. " Right I knew that. So do we go in or stay out here?"
" We can go in. In a minute I'm preparing myself. As I told you before holidays and my family don't go well together. Theres always some tragedy to deal with."
" Don't worry cuz this year you'll be prepared." Mickie smirks knowingly.
" What do you mean like you'll protect me or something. I don't get it Mickie." Bianca raises an eyebrow in question as Mickie searches her coat pockets.
" Ahah, here hold out your hand."
" Okay, Bianca agrees curiousity now piqued. She holds out a hand and Mickie places a small bottle in it. What is this? you want to get me drunk and your solution was to rob a mini bar?"
Mickie chuckles. " No, silly it's holy water. Like you told me to bring remember? Rob a mini bar you crack me up."
" Great I'll put it in my purse for later use."
" That's not all, Close your eyes." Mickie orders in a secretive tone.
" Uhmm alright I'll go along. But I still think your attempt to get me drunk failed and now you're kidnapping me." Bianca teases unknowingly. Mickie has pulled a small necklace box from her other pocket. She opens it and with Bianca's eyes still closed. Places the contents a small silver cross around Biancas neck.
" Okay, Open your eyes and look down. I haven't kidnapped you but I did give you something. While you were rambling on." Mickie states.
Bianca does as she's asked and when she sees the cross around her neck. " Oh, Mickie it's beautiful. She gasps. But I thought you told me the other day . It was too early to be giving each other gifts. Especially ones inspired on the whim of a bad joke." Bianca says feeling the necklace around her neck.
" Well that was before when we were just dating. You see now you're my girlfriend and I'm going to do lots of things inspired on the whim of bad jokes. Just to see that beautiful face of yours light up.'' Mickie tells her affectionately.
Bianca gleamed in her red dress with the necklace around her neck. " Awww.. You can't hide from me. You put up this tough front but you're just a big romantic. I love it."
" I can't hide anything from you huh? Now come here B" With that Mickie pulls her in for a quick liplock. Are we prepared enough to go in now?"
" Yes, totally let's go in." Bianca smiles.
Mickie holds out an arm old fashionedly " Well then shall we my lady."
Bianca takes the arm and the girls walk into the dining room together. " Okay ,Bianca breathes. who do I want to show you off to first. she scans the room carefully for a good first introduction. Ohh, I know you can meet my uncle Jack. She pulls Mickie by the hand like a school girl and heads towards the man.
Jack is standing against a wall in a sweater and tan slacks. When he glances in Bianca's direction. " Well if it isn't my beautiful niece slash step-daughter. How are you this fine day dear?"
" Fine unlce Jack I actually have someone I want you to meet. Uncle Jack this is my date Mickie Pierce. Mickie this is my uncle/step-dad Jack Montgomery."
" Well you must be the girl Erica was going on about. Nice to finally meet you." They shake hands.
" Nice to meet you too. So Bianca's mom was talkin' about me huh? All bad I hope." Mickie Jokes.
" Mikcie!" Bianca interjects.
" It's okay Bianca you can't blame Mickie for that comment. You and I both know that your mother can be. Very stubborn sometimes especially when it comes to change. And when it comes to who you are seeing she's absolutely insane. Jack flashes a grin at Mickie to signal he's joking. Now I've learned to take her with a grain of salt. She's mostly all talk Mickie so don't let her intimidate you."
" Gotcha, Thanks I'll do that Mr. Montegomery." Mickie nods slightly amused. But scared Erica will see right through her on the inside.
" Please call me Jack. So you were the doctor on tv a few days ago. That gave a ... I believe they call it a shout out to my niece." Jack grins.
Mickie blushes. " Yep, that was me. I didn't think alot of people even watched the late news. I have had to hear about that all week." She laughs nervously embarassed.
Jack laughs back. " Well you're probably not done hearing about it either. Atleast not in this town someone does something like that around here. And its news for weeks."
Bianca snickers. " Yeah, honey you might wanna think about wearing a baseball cap and sunglasses. Just you know to go to the store, workout at the gym, the hospital that sorta thing."
" Oh, hilarious both of you just laugh it up. It's not you two that'll hafta dress incognito now is it?"They all three laugh at Mickies stunt and her speach.
Then Bianca sees someone across the room and taps Mickie on the shoulder. " Come on there are other people to meet, And I just spotted one right..over ..there." She points.
'' Gotta go nice to meet you.." Mickie is dragged off by the hand before she can finish.
Jack smiles and shakes his head in disbelief. Briefly a thought crosses his mind. " Nah, it couldn't be."
" Oh, but it is Jackson. " A womans voice replies.
****************
Next time on future AMC. Jack and Opal talk B/F being together again only without Bianca knowing. Frankie ( Mickie) and Bianca get spied on by Erica. Things go awry at Thanksgiving as Josh and Mickie are called off to work.