The Return Of Frankie Stone

by Vampireknight86

Theres a new doctor in town. Who looks like an old flame of Bianca's but time will tell whether she's for real or not. Just Read it.

5. Chapter 8,9&10

Author:Vampireknight86

Rating: T

Pairing: Bianca/Frankie?

Feedback: Loooove IT!

Disclaimer: I own nuttin' and y'all can't prover otherwise

Last time on my version of what I wish those writers at AMC would write for a future plotline. Mickie went through some training and found out. That maybe being on the street hadn't been such a bad thing after all. Since she was able to flip a guy twice her size over her shoulder. Then she and Bianca fell asleep together only to wake up. And spend the morning together for the first time only to have their happy moment interrupted by Erica. Who announced that she and Jack would be re-married again and the girls had to go try on the clothes she had already picked. Insisting all the couples match they couldn't help but wonder what she was up to when Mickie(Frankie) formulated a plan. Here is the result.

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Chapter 8a.

Setting: Wedding planning Day 2.

Location: Jack and Erica's house on what appears to be a peaceful afternoon.

" Okay Bianca I think I'm getting cold feet. Mickie says taking in a nervous breath outside the front door of Erica and Jackson's house. Yeah, I am see ya' later I can't do it."

Bianca grabs her arm and pulls her back as she goes to bolt. " Oh, no you don't Pierce this was your idea and we all agreed to it. Besides this is not exactly something I can do by myself ya' know."

" Alright."

Mickie(Frankie) breathes deep. Let's do this, Us first then Josh and Babe, Kendall and Zach then the big surprise.'' She smirks clearly nervous about the coming events.

"Lord help us if she likes the idea and wants to go through with it." Bianca comments chuckling, Mickie looks even more panicked at those words as they walk up to knock on the door.

" Hello, come on in.'' Erica greets the couple.

The older woman's eyes follow Mickie and Bianca as they enter, with a bewildered look on her face. '' Why exactly did you wear your wedding clothes here?" She asks.

Before they can answer there is yet another knock on the door. "You can tell me as soon as I get the door.'' she trails.

Erica watches stunned as Josh and Babe walk through the door over to Mickie and Bianca. Also dressed in their wedding attire. " Alright what is going on?'' She states pointedly.

Then there is another knock on the door. '' I'll be right back and you four had better have a good explanation for..." She answers it only to see Kendall and Zach walk in and over to the rest of the couples in their wedding clothes as well.

'' Alright!, Somebody had better start talking here and I mean now." Erica says demanding eyeing everyone carefully waiting for someone to break.

" I'll answer that.'' Mickie pipes up closing her cell phone just as the doorbell rings.

'' If you'll excuse me for a moment. " She walks over and opens the door. ''Ahh..Vito ya' made it come in."

" Yes of course I'm always on time for a wedding. The man replies entering the home.

'' Although your request is a little suprising it's not just you and your girlfriend taking the 'plunge'. You want me to also marry Her brother to his girlfriend and renew the vows of Her sister and her husband is that right?" The man asks clearly playing along with the scenario.

Mickie giving a slight grin. " Yep, that's right, ''

Mickie walks Vito into the living room where everyone has gathered. '' Ms. Kane this is a buddy of mine from work Vito. Vito this is the woman I was telling you about. Everybody else met him already."

" May I say it is a pleasure to meet such a lovely creature as yourself ma'am." Vito states kissing Erica's hand laying on all of his charm. Knowing full well the plan ahead.

" Well you certainly are charming aren't you?, Now will somebody please tell me what is going on?" Erica once again inquires.

" Allow me to answer that now. You see Vito here does self defense training at work. But he's also one of the few people in town. That performs not only weddings but gay weddings aswell. Plus he's cheaper than finding two ministers." Mickie informs Erica.

" What about ministers we already have one of those and Jack and I aren't gay. No offense darling." Erica responds looking at her daughter and Mickie who has an evil gleam in her eyes.

"None taken mom. Bianca replies. But he's not just here to marry you. He's here to marry Josh and Babe re-marry Kendall and Zach and Mickie and I. " She grins putting an arm around the golden haired womans shoulder Mickie smiles nervously but still smug.

Erica is completely shocked by this news for some reason. She is speechless.

" Whats that look for mom? I mean this was your plan when you got everybody. A matching black and white outfit wasn't it? This time we just beat you to the punch." Kendall explains a hint of sarcasm in her voice.

" Yeah, Mom what did you think you were getting away with it? Josh says taking his turn in the situation comedy. I mean the matching bride/groom and bride/bride attire was a dead give away. That you were up to something. So we took matters in our own hands I proposed to Babe..."

" And I popped the question to Bianca didn't I honey muffin?" Mickie says in classic Frankie like smug tone. She couldn't help but think if Bianca knew who she was she'd kill her at that moment.

" Yes you did corn flake." Bianca replies beaming.

"Now we're getting married all of us just like you planned right mom? Josh finishes. So who wants to go first?"

" I believe Mickie and I won the coin toss earlier." Bianca volunteers grinning.

" Okay then congratulations." Kendall says.

"Whoa, everyone hold the phone here. Erica interjects. Now let me see if I get this straight you 're all going to get married because I got you matching attire? Well go ahead that wasn't really what I had planned. But do go on you know how I love a production."

" Well then what did you have planned mom?" Bianca asks.

" Jack and I were going to have all of you in the wedding party. You know maids of honor, groomsmen they wear matching clothes, You'd swear none of you had ever been to a wedding before." Erica goes on to explain.

" Oh, really mom then what was with all the vague details and calling me up. Insisting Mickie and I match and Josh and Babe, Kendall and Zach you gave them the same routine with no explanation."

" This was all your idea wasn't. Erica asks turning her head to Mickie. I knew it you just had to start trouble didn't you? I don't know how you drug all my children along with you. But I assure I won't soon fo.."

" Oh, would you please stuff it you're insane. They all had the idea I just helped out with the plot." Mickie tells The older woman with some attitude.

" Yes I'm sure you did since you love orchestrating scenes don't you Mickie? Erica comes back. You really are just like her I think Maggie and Frankie had another sibling they didn't talk about."

"Mom thats enough I love Mickie and she isn't related to Maggie or Frankie. She would've told me if she were and you have no right to talk to her that way. The only thing she did was call Vito here and see if he wouldn't go along with the idea we all agreed to. " Bianca picks up defending her girlfriend.

" Yeah, mom this was our way of saying stay out of our love lives. Josh adds. And that has been a long time coming anyway with or without Mickie."

" I hate to say it but I'm with Bianca and Josh. What did you think we wouldn't figure it out? Thats not Mickies fault that you lost your mind and tried to have everyone married off." Kendall chimes in.

" Fine I admit I was going to have pictures of all of you with your significant other taken. I thought the matching dress would go well with not only the wedding party but also the pictures." Erica confesses.

" Vito I don't think you're going to have to perform the ceremonies after all." Mickie says with a hint of relief in her tone.

" Well I'll just see myself out then. It was lovely to have met you my mother's a big fan." The man says to Erica before departing.

" Well now I think you all owe me an thinking I was some crazy person out to wed you all. I mean my god Josh and Babe have barely been dating a few months. As have Bianca and..and." Erica says with arms folded looking head on at her children and their partners.

" The names Mickie miss Kane. And I intend to date your daughter indefinitely so you better get used to saying it. On Christmas cards and invitations and.." Mickie(Frankie) Goes on trying to get a rise out of Erica. But is cut off by Bianca.

" Alright Mickie you've made your point. Bianca scolds. You can stop trying to get a rise out of my mother now."

" Oh, please Bianca let her continue. I'd love to hear what this carbon copy of Frankie Stone has to say next." Erica comments insultingly.

Mickie goes to smart something but Bianca heads her off at the pass. " Don't say anything next Mickie thats what she wants. "

" Oh, come on sis let'em go at it. I'd love to see mom hauled off for assaulting an off duty police officer. Kendal tells her in sort of a cocky tone. I can just imagine the exposer headline now "Kane pops cop gets 5-6 in camp cupcake."

" Surely once they heard what went on they'd cut me some slack. I'd probably get probation but then I'd sue at Mickie. This smart mouth here for defamation of character for having me arrested." Erica points out.

" Well, maybe Mickie won't be the one arresting you. I'm sure Vito hasn't gone far he is a cop right Mick?" Josh asks with a sly grin on his face.

" Yeah, he is I could give him a call tell him there's a domestic dispute in progress." Mickie states following Josh's lead.

" Alright all of you just stop it right now. Bianca interrupts. Mom we were wrong we're sorry. Mickie didn't mean what she said she was just defending herself. Now we'll all go home and change and meet back here tomorrow and try to pull this thing back together.'' Bianca says not really asking. Taking an unusual stance against her family for their own good.

Everyone is silenced by this Bianca being the quiet one in the group. Mickie(Frankie) is even taken aback as the seemingly irritated and frustrated dark haired woman. Taking her by the hand and heading out the door in a huff.

***************************

As soon as their out of the house. " Whoa hold on for a second did you hear yourself back there?" Mickie stops her girlfriend in her tracks and turns her around to face her.

" Yeah and I don't wanna talk about it okay. I can't believe I just did that I never.." Bianca reddens in embarrassment over the scene.

" Well that makes two I nevers, because I never had anyone stand up for me before. Much less three people. And *you*. Bianca laughs nervously. Are you sure you're not twins 'cuz I know my girlfriend and that wasn't her in there was it?" Mickie asks incredulously.

" Yeah, it was, I'm only like that when pushed to my limits. It's not a side of me people often see." Bianca replies suddenly shy.

Mickie puts her arms around the taller woman's waist comfortingly. " I was a little blown away, I mean you're the calm rational one. I'm the one whose all..''

"In your face won't back down. Doesn't know when to quit.." Bianca finishes rambling on.

" Hey you made your point already. Don't make me not want to marry you someday." Mickie teases then catches the actual depth of what she's said.

Bianca is surprised by Mickie's words almost as much as she is. " You want to marry me someday?"

Mickie breaks away suddenly looking nervous. " You know what this suit is really uncomfortable lets go change."

" No. Bianca stops her. I'm feeling pretty self-confident right now and before it goes away. I want an answer Mickie."

Mickie smiles." You really are on an adrenaline high huh?Bianca gives her a stern look, Yes I want to marry you..someday not right now."

" I am yes. And second I think I might just wanna.. marry you too." Bianca smiles putting her arms on Mickie's shoulders. They look into each others eyes. "Tell me something about yourself something nobody else knows?" She asks affectionately.

Mickie thinks on that for a minute ( God I want to tell you something alright but now isn't the time. What do I tell you? Nothing about my family that would be another crying scene nobody needs that today. I got it.) She smiles widely and her eyes sparkle. " Okay, I will but lets get changed first it's something I have to show you."

" You're up to something aren't you Mickie?"

" Ohhh,yeah come on, lets blow this matrimonial joint." Mickie replies taking a giggling Bianca by the hand and leading her off.

***************************

Some very long moments later. A baseball field.

"Mickie honey when I asked you to tell me something about yourself. I was thinking more along the lines of your favorite color or a highschool nickname. " Bianca informs the woman as they walk through the stands of a baseball stadium.

" Uhh, favorite color green,High school nickname didn't have one. Now stop complaining that's my job remember." Mickie tells her as they sit down on one of the bleachers.

" I'm not complaining Mickie I just don't get what it is about a baseball game that's telling me something about you. Did you like play it as a kid and score the winning touchdown?" Bianca inquires with a furrowed brow.

Mickie snickers at her mistake. "Whats so funny?" Bianca asks.

" You said touchdown that's football. I think you mean homerun and no I wasn't a team player no sports."

" Oh, sorry I hate sports. " Bianca apologizes.

" My story is I hated school almost as much as you hate sports. And I used to cut class in middle school I'd sneak into the stands where I lived. One day the guy that managed the stadium caught me and we struck a deal I got to go to as many games as I wanted."

" Huh and what was the catch?"

" The condition was only after school and I had to sell the snacks and stuff. There I just told you about my first job does that satisfy your curiosity?" Mickie asks taking a bite of hot dog.

" No, but it does make me happy you're sharing. And thats not all you're sharing." Bianca says with a raised eyebrow.

" Really what else am I sharing?" Mickie frowns.

" That hot dog, now gimme." Bianca takes a bite of the hot dog in Mickie's hand. And they both laugh.

" Okay, here take it. So you've never been to a ball game before? Hm." the blond inquires with a hint of mystery in her voice.

" Whats that hm....for? You're upto something else aren't you?"

" Ya' think..Mickie replies then grins devilishly. Look up.'' She points to the jumbo tron.

Bianca looks in the direction the blonde woman is pointing. " Ohhh...how did you do this?"

" I made a request before the game started when I went to get my hot dog that *you* just ate." the blond replied flatly.

In large lettering around the screen is 'I love you Bianca' and the two of them in the middle of the screen.

Mickie smiles. " I just remembered I hadn't said it today." Bianca reaches up and hugs her.

" Said what now?" The brunette asks playfully.

" You're still on that adrenaline high huh? " Mickie replies.

" Mhmm..But you.." Bianca trails so Mickie may finish the sentence.

" Yeah, Yeah I love you for it. Happy now I said it twice already." Mickie grumbles not in a mean way.

" Yes. "

" Good now we can finish the game and I'll teach you the difference between a touchdown and a home run." Mickie tells the dark haired woman teasingly.

Bianca too elated to retort simply nods in compliance.

*************************

Fast forward to the day before Valentines day.

" I'm all finished with the paperwork I'm goin' home Mr. Montgomery. Oh, Bianca says hey.'' Frankie says rubbing her eyes. Man, I thought there was alotta paperwork involved with the medical field. They ain't got nothin' on you guys though.''

Jack laughs. " Yes there can be quite allot of it. Tell Bianca I said hello back. Oh, Frankie?'' He calls out causing the woman to turn around again.

" Yeah.''

" Are you sure you're alright with being in the wedding party Frankie? It's not too late to back out.''

" Even if I wasn't Bianca would find a way to persuade me otherwise. Besides. Frankie shrugs. I'm up for it I mean I don't have to wear a dress anyway. And Erica doesn't exactly know that she's got someone she hates in the wedding party. I can't help but laugh a little. If she knew who I really was she'd probably poor the punchbowl on my head.'' She jokes.

" True. But maybe the way you tell her will affect her differently than you think Frankie. She may not hate you after everything you've done for Bianca and for her.'' Jack tells her.

" Well we'll just have to see when the time comes. I gotta go do something. I'll catch ya' later Mr. Montgomery.''

" It's Jack.'' he sing songs.

" Okay Jack I'll see ya' later.'' Frankie waves as she walks out.

**********************************

Setting: Bianca's apartment a few long minutes later.

Mickie uses the key she knows Bianca stashes under the mat and enters the apartment. With an armful of flowers and calls out as she flips on the lights.

" Teddy here boy. The dog runs up to her. Hey pal come here and let me put this on ya'. Mickie says as she picks him up and places a red collar with a little sign on it. Around the dogs neck. I've got somethin' to tell you. My name isn't Mickie like they all call me..no it's not its Frankie. The dogs only response is to wag it's tail and kiss her. Well you're obviously handling this well. Lets hope Bianca takes the news as good as you have. Now come on we gotta go meet her in the park.''

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Setting: Pine Valley Park.

Bianca sets on a bench waiting for Mickie. When A dog comes running up to her. She immediately recognizes that it is Teddy.

" Teddy hey boy! She picks him up. Where is Mickie she's supposed to be...Whats this?'' She notices the sign on the dogs collar. It is not just a sign but a card. " Roses are red violets are blue if you won't be my valentine I will be too. Love anonymous. She reads aloud. Well I think we know who anonymous is don't we Teddy?'' The puppy barks. '' Yeah, the brunette smiled in acknowledgement, come on lets go find your other mommy.''

" I'm standing right here and I refuse to be called mommy.'' Mickie jokes looming her head over Bianca grinning. " Man that police training is really paying off, you didn't even hear me come up behind you.''

" Oh, and you think that's a good thing?'' Bianca challenged with a curiously raised brow.

" Ahuh, Look I wanted to do something with you on Valentines day. But we've got your mom and Jacks wedding so. Teddy had this idea that we should surprise you. See he even changed collars and got you a card.'' Mickie jokes as she comes around to face Bianca with one arm behind her back.

Bianca is amused. " Right this was all the dogs idea. Sure Mickie.''

'' Well okay it was both our idea's but I did get you something too.'' Mickie then moves her arm out to reveal a large multi-colored bouquet of roses.

" Oh, Mickie they're gasps as she takes the flowers. I love them you're so sweet.''

Mickie shrugs setting down on the bench. " Yeah, yeah don't spread it around.''

Bianca chuckles. '' Don't worry your secrets safe with me. And don't be blue I'll be yours.''

" Awesome! That dog is a genius I gotta get more ideas from him.''

More laughter then Bianca cups Mickie's chin with her right hand and draws her closer. '' Come here you.'' They kiss sweetly. When they part. " So can you tell me why there are three different colors of roses in here?''

" Ah, I thought you'd never ask. Let me see the white is friendship, the red is of course passion.'' Mickie gasps Melladramatically.

" What about the yellow?'' Bianca asks smiling wide.

" The yellow is the most important one of'em all. It means..true love.'' Mickie says in a more serious tone. " I know it's not like a fancy gift or a piece of jewelry like what I wanted to get you. But I hope you like it.''

"Mickie you goofball I love this way more than some piece of jewelry like everyone else gets on Valentines day. And you thought ahead enough to get me something before Valentines day. This is so sweet I couldn't have imagined getting a better gift really.'' Bianca tells the dark blond woman reassuringly.

" Does that mean I get another kiss?'' Mickie asks devilishly.

" Of course and Happy Valentines day to you too Mickie.'' They kiss once more as the scene fades.

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Setting: Valentines day AKA The big day for Jack and Erica...again.

Location: A small church in Pine Valley.

" Okay, looks like everythings good here. Bianca says giving the bouquet of flowers one final look over. I guess we can.." She trails as she looks over to see Mickie staring at here. In an affectionate non creepy kinda way. How long have you been standing there watching me?"

" Ohh, you didn't get the memo? I knew Kendall couldn't be trusted. Mickie states snapping her fingers. You see it's my job to observe you."

" Is it now? Bianca raises an eyebrow. No I don't guess I got that memo."

" I was *observing* you long enough to see you straighten that group of flowers over there." Mickie points out the bouquet being referred to.

" You saw that huh?" Bianca asks shyly.

" Yep, you perfectionist you. Mickie responds. Then changing the subject. Do you think it'll work out for your mom and Jack this time? I know you said before they've been here a couple times."

" I honestly don't know. Bianca shrugs. Since when do you care anyway? You don't like my mom."

" No I'm not fond of her. Mickie admits. But I like Jack he's cool and I care about you so.. what do you think?"

" I hope so, they can make each other so happy and at the same time..."

" Make each other completely miserable." Mickie finishes in an almost knowing tone.

" Yeah, I can only hope this is the last Erica Kane/Jackson Montgomery wedding. Speaking of which we better go get changed. "

" Okay, I know you're just dying to see me in that dumb ol' suit again." Mickie says annoyed at the thought.

" Yes I am because you look..Bianca gives her a peck on the lips. So cute in it."

" Well I think it'll kill me to wear it before it does you to wait to see me in it." Mickie comments as they head off to change for the wedding.

***************************

The Wedding Part 3, So it begins.

Spike and Miranda throw flower pedals down the aisle and then take their seats next to the nanny.

The perspective couples take one another arm and arm. And begin to enter two by two taking their places on either side of the bride and groom. Bianca takes Mickie's arm when it's their turn and Mickie(Frankie) breathes a nervous breath. To which Bianca gives her a reassuring smile.

As the couples line up The brides music begins to play. And Erica makes her way down the aisle over to Jack. Who smiles the instant he sees her.

Mickie looks extremely uncomfortable in her suit. But manages to wink at Bianca cutely, while straightening her collar for the millionth time.

The minister begins reading he gets to the vows and Jack and Erica recite them.

"Do you Erica take this man Jackson Montgomery to be your lawfully wedded husband. To have and to hold from this day forward for better or worse, richer or poorer in sickness and health til death do you part for as long as you both shall live?" The minister asks.

" I do..again." Erica replies smiling.

" And do you Jackson take this woman Erica Kane to be your lawfully wedded wife to have and to hold from this day forward For better or worse, richer or poorer in sickness and in health for as long as you both shall live?"

" I also do, again." Jack answers smiling at Erica.

" Please exchange rings."

Josh hands Jack the ring to put on Erica's finger. And Kendall hands Erica the ring to put on Jacks finger.

" I now pronounce you husband and wife again. The Minister remarks with humor as the crowd has a small laugh at this. You may kiss the bride."

Jack does just that and pulls Erica into a sweet kiss.

" Now do us all a favor and make this one stick guys." Kendall comments. Everyone nods their heads at that in amusement Erica and Jack turn to face everyone.

" We promise this is the last time." He says as they go to exit the small church. The crowd stands and piano music plays on.

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Chapter 8b.

The Reception.

Awhile later at the reception at Jack and Erica's house. Everyone has changed into more comfortable attire still dressy but more casual.

Everyone is dancing and carrying on and we close in on Jack and Erica slow dancing. As they watch all the rest of their family and friends do the same. Especially Bianca and Mickie(Frankie). Jack notices that Erica has settled her attention on the couple.

" They make a pretty good couple you know." Jack comments seeing where his wife's attention is focused.

" Yes I'm beginning to see that Jack. Erica laughs casually. Look dear Mickie's trying to reach high enough to twirl Bianca."

" Does this mean you're going to play nice now? See how happy our daughter is with her?" Jack asks.

Erica gives him a coy smile. " I call a complete truce from now on. Will you excuse me for a moment Jack I think I need to talk to Mickie... today."

" Bye all means I'll just go dance with some other woman." Jack teases.

" Do that dear I believe Bianca will be available soon. Because I'm going to cut in." Erica says back teasingly.

*****************************

At the same time across the room Mickie and Bianca are having fun dancing to the band. When Mickie notices Erica out of the corner of her eye. " You do know we're being watched right now?" She whispers in Bianca's ear.

" By who? " Bianca looks around quickly.

" Your mother who else? You know I'm surprised she let me in the wedding party. Since I.."

Bianca cut her off. " Since you called a justice of the peace and tried to have us all married. She doesn't know it was your idea Josh, Kendall and I all agreed to let her think.."

Mickie raises an eyebrow as she twirls Bianca. " That it was you guy's idea and I was just playing along right?" She finishes.

Bianca grins as she comes back to Mickie's arms. " Shh..don't let her hear that. But yes as far as she knows you were just an innocent pawn that I strung along in our master plan." The dark-eyed girl jokes.

Before Mickie can come back Erica taps Bianca on the shoulder. " May I cut in for a moment I'd like to speak with Mickie."

A little suprised by this Bianca hands Mickie over to Erica. " Um..sure mom I'll just go get us something to drink. Will you be okay Mickie?"

" Yes I'll be fine. I promise I won't even step on your toes miss Kane." Mickie(Frankie) Replies as Bianca walks over to the beverage table. She begins to dance carefully with Erica as they talk. " So what do you want miss Kane or should I say misses Montgomery? Because I'm guessing you'd rather be dancing with Jack right now."

Erica smiles shyly. " You're right I would and either one is fine. Not that you're a bad dancer. Quite the contrary actually you're very light on your feet. '' She comments in a calm but nervous voice having never danced with another woman before. Left some room for an uncomfortable feeling.

Mickie takes this remark as a compliment and smiles sensing both Erica's discomfort and her own. " Well actually you have Bianca to thank for that. She showed me some extra moves recently. Before I would have crunched your toes." She says making light.

Erica laughs becoming more comfortable. " I wanted to say that I know you were just going along with my childrens scheme. And I called you names and said things I had no right to. Could you forgive me... again?"

" I suppose, But lets get one thing clear I'm only doing this for Bianca's sake. I don't forgive easily miss Kane." Mickie adds.

" Alright I'll take that. I have the feeling you haven't been shown alot of kindness or sincerity in your life Mickie. But know this neither do I." Erica replies taking a guess as to the life of this woman.

" Is everything okay here?" Bianca asks walking back over to Erica and Mickie.

" Yes, dear everthing is fine here. You can have Mickie back now I was just going to find my husband. Erica goes to walk away and turns. Oh, and Mickie call me Erica."

" I'll do it the next time I see you." Mickie replies.

Bianca frowns trying to figure out why her mother had opted to dance with her girlfriend." So what did she want?"

" Oh, just to tell me that we had a truce was all. Since I was merely an innocent pawn in your master plan." Mickie says in a dramatic tone for fun.

" Really well I guess she likes you, heres your drink." Bianca says handing the woman a glass of champagne.

" I wouldn't go that far Bianca I think it's the wedding extra hormones or something. Bianca lets out a small holds up the glass looking at it's contents. '' Whats this sparkling water?"

" No, silly it's champagne. " Bianca chuckles.

" Here take it back, I don't want it." Mickie says clearly upset by the drink. She walks out of the reception and onto the back deck seating herself on the top step.

**************************

Last time on Alt AMC.

Mickie holds up the glass looking at it's contents. " Whats this sparkling water?"

" No, silly it's champagne. " Bianca chuckles.

" Here take it back, I don't want it." Mickie says clearly upset by the drink. She walks out of the reception and onto the back deck seating herself on the top step.

" Hey, what was that all about ? How come you're so upset?" Bianca asks setting down next to Mickie and straightening her cocktail dress.

" I don't wanna talk about it." Mickie grumbles. " I just don't drink."

" Oh, no I can't do this anymore. Bianca states shaking her head. Mickie I want a real non-vague answer. You know you can trust me with anything. I won't tell anyone." She promises.

" I..Mickie(Frankie) can feel the world close in on her and would've loved nothing more in that moment than to have the ground swallow her whole. So she wouldn't have to get into her sordid family past this wasn't something her and Bianca had ever discust this time around or last. But seeing as how it was inescapable she complied. I don't drink because I don't wanna be a jerk okay."

" NO, Pierce thats not okay thats just another vague answer, To a very clear question." Bianca tells the blonde woman by her side. Becoming slightly irritated.

" What does it matter why I don't. I just don't.'' Mickie replies firmly crossing her arms like a pouting child.

Bianca takes in a deep breath and sees trying a different aproach might be more useful. '' Look Mickie I don't mean to sound harsh or scare you off. But I wanna know you everything about you. Even the bad stuff if you'll just let me in I'm not gonna judge you if thats what you think. ''

Mickie takes Bianca's hand in hers and gives it a small reassuring kiss. Bianca looks at her with truthful eyes as though prying into Mickie's ( Frankie's) very soul.

" Alright. Mickie breathes deep and looks at Bianca seriously. Look I don't drink because my dad and my mother. They're alcoholics and users and I used to be one of them but I don't wanna be again. My old man he used to get trashed out of his mind and beat me and..anyone else he could find something wrong with. So other than the very occasional beer I don't ever drink. I ..I just don't wanna be like him I could never imagine hurting someone like that." She explained as a tear streaked down her face.

" Oh, Mickie. Was all Bianca could manage throwing her arms around the woman. I'm sorry."

" It's cool, besides it's not your fault my family's so messed up and my old man used to use me for an EVERLAST." Mickie tells the dark haired woman holding her. "Please don't feel sorry for me?"

" I don't.'' Is Bianca's simple reply.

" You don't ? " Mickie asked sounding almost disappointed.

" No. Bianca says pulling away to look at the woman. I don't. I can't pity someone I'm so proud of."

" You're proud of me because I was beaten up by a drunken father? I don't get it." Mickie shakes her head.

" No,The brunette says bemusedly, I'm proud of you for not wanting to be like that. That's what you didn't want to tell me before when I asked about your family wasn't it?"

Mickie nods solemly not saying a word in reply. Bianca lets go of the womans shoulder. stands up and walks over to the glasses of champagne she sat down. Picks them up and tosses them over the fence until she hears them shatter. Wiping her hands she looks at Mickie. Whose jawline is dropped and eyes are wide.

" Now, if you're finished oh, brooding one I'll get you a Pepsi." Bianca proceeds to the door to re-enter the house. Mickie stands up and follows behind stopping the woman before she can turn the knob. She turns Bianca around and kisses her intensely.

" I love you." Mickie says when they finally part breathless.

" Ditto." Bianca replies trying to lighten the moment without success Mickie looked at her intensely. then replied.

" Hey that's my line. You can't just go around plagiarising people."

" Well you know what they say plagiarism is the sincerest form of flattery. I was merely flattering you. Somebody has to." Bianca responds cutely.

" She already does." Mickie comments simply.

"Come on you." Bianca blushes pulling Mickie by the arm.

*******************************

Two months later.

Everything has been going well for all the people of Pine Valley. Erica and Jack are finally enjoying wedded bliss and so far Erica has kept good on her promise not to interfere, Between Mickie(Frankie) and Bianca's happiness.

Mickie has already been assigned her first case and things are going great for her and Bianca. But nothing ever stays peaceful in Pine Valley and they are about to get a couple of suprises. One in the form of a gumshoe named Tad 'the cad' Martin and the other flown in specialty from Paris.

****************************

Chapter 8c.

Pine Valley P.D. Frankie walks into Jack's office and closes the door.

" So whats up Jack I got a stakeout in like fifteen minutes." Frankie asks plopping herself down in his visitors chair.

" Well, Frankie, Derek thought the news would be better delivered by me."

" What news? Am I a terrible detective? I told you this was a mistake my experience is on the other side of the law. Jack man level with me here, am I fired?" Frankie asks with a concerned look and panic in her voice.

Jack quirks a smile and holds up his hands to ease the hyper woman." Calm down Frankie you're way off and you know sometimes ex-cons make the best cops. He then takes a seat at his desk and picks up a folder. Derek assigned you a P.I. with some years of experience. To help out on the Virus tainted drug case that's all."

" You mean like a partner? Jack nods. Oh, no way I work alone I can't be out there and hafta cover someone else's rear too."

" I don't think you'll have that to worry about that. I can cover my own rear kid." A male voice responds.

" Who the hell are you ? And I'm not a kid I bet I know more about surviving the streets than you do." Frankie comes back standing up to better face the man.

" I am Tad Martin. The question is who are you? Because I can't figure out what name you'd like to be called. Mickie Pierce or Mary-Francis Stone?" Tad asks sarcastically.

" Alright that's it, Mr. Montgomery you might wanna leave the room 'cuz I'm about to commit a four-twenty-five all over this guy." Frankie says doubling up her fists.

" Easy Frankie. Jack says putting his hands on her shoulders and sitting her back down. Now Tad how do you know Frankie's real name?"

"Because Jack he's the guy that Bianca had background check me. Remember I told you? I want another partner Jack can't you pick somebody else? Frankie asks folding her arms. I know trouble when I see it."

" You ought to with your record. Tad chimes in. Two shoplifting arrests, robbery, B and E. And my personal favorite three months probation for boosting cars." He lists from memory.

" You don't know jack about me pal!, I didn't do that stuff 'cuz I wanted to okay!" Frankie snaps.

" Tad I'm taking a page out of Frankies book here shut up. Jack interjects before Tad can say anything else. Look Frankie testified against Vanessa Cortland's drug lords. That's why she changed her name and cleaned up her act very nicely. If I do say so myself." He explains then looks over at Frankie who is smiling smugly at the complement.

" Oh, I see so you're in on her conning Bianca too. Tad says. Funny Jack I never would've pegged you for the type."

" Shut you're stupid mouth right now! Frankie exclaims angrily. I'm not conning Bianca I intend on telling her who I am. But it's a little hard to explain that to someone who thinks you're dead. "

" Okay,so what's with the cover up?"

" Ever hear of witness protection dimwit? Frankie pipes up with her trademark attitude, I had to enter it to protect Bianca and me, she thinks I died. The blond woman turns to Jack briefly, You said he had experience he seems like a moron to me." She states with an eyeroll as she slumps back down into the desk chair in Jacks office.

" Yes well obviously I was mistaken." Jack replies simply with a shrug.

" Hey take it easy I didn't call you any names...Frankie gives him an 'oh, really' look. Well not specifically." Tad can't really find a proper response having shot his mouth off too soon. ''Let's start over I'm Tad Martin pay no attention to anything I say." He tells her extending his hand.

Frankie rolls her eyes realizing he's probably gonna be of some help to the case. She takes his hand in a very cool manner. " Frankie Stone it's cool listening was never my specialty I'm more of an action speaks louder person. Now if you're done being jerk maybe we can catch a bad guy."

" Sounds good to me. Tad agrees. So lets get started."

" Just one thing nobody can know you know my real name. You can call me Frankie in front of Jack,Derek and Opal. But in front of Erica,Kendall,Josh and especially Bianca I'm Mickie."

" Gotcha' now did you try..." Tad goes to ask something Frankie finishes the question.

" Larry by the docks, Tad tries another one. Joe at the warehouse and Tye in the park yeah, They haven't seen or heard from him and the kicker is neither has his supplier. He went off without paying the dude, he was seriously p.o'd too."

Tads jaw drops and his eyes widen at the fact that Frankie has almost as many contacts as he does. " Okay then we'll have to get creative. How do you feel about getting into the drug business?"

" Trust me you don't wanna know. Frankie shakes her head. Now what are we talkin' about here?"

They start talking about the plan scene fades out.

******************************

Setting: Frankie's apartment evening same ep.

" Honey I'm home." Mickie(Frankie) calls out sensing she's not alone.

As she makes her way into the kitchen she sees Bianca standing over the stove. ''Hey, how'd you know I was here?" Bianca asks shyly looking up from stirring a kettle of something on the stove.

Mickie walks over to the stove where Bianca is standing and places a sweet kiss on her lips. " Elementary my dear replies. You're car was parked outside it was sorta obvious. But one thing that does bother me." She knits her eyebrows together.

"And that is?" Bianca asks smiling.

" You're cooking but I don't smell smoke and there aren't any flames shooting out of that burner." Mickie smarts mock sniffing around the room for smoke.

" Oh, thats very amusing. Bianca replies sarcastically holding a sauce spoon up to Mickie's mouth. Here try this?"

Mickie takes a taste of the sauce. " Mmm...I like it, you taste. " Mickie says and kisses the taller woman once more.

" Needs more seasoning. Bianca grins awnrily. So how was your day catch any nefarious villains?"

" Nefarious? Mickie chuckles. No but they assigned me a P.I. for a partner though."

" Anyone I know?" Bianca asks the question innocently enough.

" Yeah, actually... Tad Martin." Mickie answers simply hoping to shield the irritation and upset in her voice.

" Mickie I'm sorry, You know how bad I feel for doing that stupid background check in the first place. Now you have to work with him everyday." Bianca apologizes yet again taking a seat on the sofa next to Mickie.

Mickie pulls her close and squeezes her shoulder reassuringly. " Bianca stop apologizing I forgive you. Besides they could be making me drive a squad car or something instead. I'll deal besides he's not that bad, not that smart either but.."

" Well thats the spirit it could be worse." Bianca says hopefully.

Catching a double meaning to those words Mickie asks. " How worse?"

" It's nothing, Bianca dismisses. Well it's something but you've had a bad day. I can tell you tomorrow."

" No I wanna know. Don't go all distant on me that's what I do remember?"

" It's a my ex/best friend is flying in from Paris to work at Pine Valley hospital kinda worse. And she wants to have lunch with me and you." Bianca explains hesitantly.

" I take it that you're talking about that Maggie chick right?" Mickie(Frankie) asks like she doesn't know already.(Great lets just add a little more pressure here, even Stones break ya' know.)

" Please say something Mickie?" The brunette pleads.

" What can I say Bianca? Do you still...you know..want her?" Mickie enquires feeling a little depressed at the thought of losing Bianca to her own sister.

" NO, we are just friends thats all I swear and that's even a little shaky." Bianca insists.

" Ahuh..and does Maggie feel the same way you do?" ( God, I'm runnin' competition with my sister. Unreal.) Mickie(Frankie) Thinks to herself.

" Yes..Bianca answers quickly. And even if she doesn't I'm with who I wanna be with."

" Well if you say so. But you guys were together for like what four years? Bianca nods. Thats alot longer than us you two know things about each other." Mickie comments. ( Why, why couldn't it have been anyone besides my sister. Zoe the rocker I'll deal, Sarah the closet case fine, That Lena chick bring it on but my own sister.)

Bianca reads the confusion in the blonde woman's expressive eyes. " You know more about me than she does Mickie. You know how to make me feel safe, and how to make me laugh when I'm on my worst day. In a relationship I always did the giving and everyone took including Maggie. But you give to me Mickie we give to each other and that's like the best thing ever."

" Okay, Mickie grumbles pretending not be touched by her girlfriends words. But don't expect me to like her."

Bianca chuckles. " Me expect you to like someone don't be silly."

" Don't give me any lip."

" Oh, I'll give you lip. Bianca says flirtily. Come here." She pulls Mickie into a deep kiss as the scene fades out.

********************************

Setting: Pine Valley airport a few days later D-day.

Mickie comes running up to the gate terminal where Bianca is standing. " Has her plane arrived yet?" She asks the taller woman breathing heavy from the run.

" No, Bianca replies. You seem excited like you're meeting a long lost relative or something?"

( Actually I am you just don't know it.) Mickie thinks to herself. " No I'm not. I think you're mistaking my being excited for my being anxious to get this over with so I can have you all to myself again." She covers wrapping her arms around Bianca's waist briefly.

" Well wait no more. Her plane just touched down." Bianca tells the blonde woman. They watch the passengers walk off the plane and Bianca spots Maggie. She runs over and hugs her.

Maggie is suprised by this greeting. " Hey Bianca, I wasn't expecting the welcome wagon. Flowers and a limo would have done just fine." She jokes.

" Hey! She only buy's flowers for me lady." Mickie(Frankie) interjects a little bothered by that statement.

Bianca slaps her in the arm. " Mickie be nice she was only kidding." She scolds.

" Right, sorry. Mickie extends a hand to Maggie. Mickie Pierce nice to meet you."

" Maggie Stone nice to me you too. I think?" She says shaking the woman's hand surprised by how familiar the woman looks. It was almost like looking at a mirror image of herself only with choppy neck length hair.

After a few moments of awkward silence. Mickie breaks the cycle. " Well are we gonna get some lunch or stand around here all day?"

" Actually that sounds great. I hate plane food and I'm so jet lagged." Maggie acknowledges.

" Let me guess you hate heights right?" Mickie asks grinning.

" Yeah, how'd you know that?" Maggie asks with an odd expression.

( Because I'm your twin when we were kids it was always Frankie go up there,Frankie climb this tree.) Mickie thinks to herself. " Your pupils dilated half a centimeter when you walked into the light. It's almost a sure sign of sedative use let me guess xanex?"

" What are you like a doctor or something? Bianca said you were a detective in her e-mail."

" Yes on both counts actually I used to be a doctor. I got offered a job at the police department because they think I'm smart at solving stuff. Boy, do I have them snowed." Mickie jokes trying to break the intensity that is in the air.

Maggie laughed nervously if she didn't know any better. She would have sworn that she was talking to her sister.

Bianca breathes deep watching the women eye each other. It was like looking at sisters she tried not to think it but couldn't help not to. " Okay why don't we get some lunch." She inerupts the staring.

**************************

Awhile later at Bj's Much to Bianca's suprise her ex/best friend and her current girlfriend have been getting along. Laughing, joking and talking like old friends ,sisters even.

Mickie has been telling Maggie a funny story from when she worked at the hospital. " So..I take this huge needle out which of course you couldn't sew anything up with. But he doesn't know that and he takes one look at it and passes out right in front of the nurse." Both women crack up.

" Sounds like you've got some bedside manner issues." Maggie says laughing.

" Lady I've got no manners." Mickie says matter of factly.

" That's true you don't." Bianca agrees.

" Hey!, They laugh again before Mickie can say anything more. Her phone rings. "Yeah,whats up?..okay be there in ten,bye."

" Who was that honey?" Bianca enquires.

" That was my slimeball partner. Mickie replies. We got a lead and I have to meet with a drug dealer in..."

" Okay don't go any further. I told you I didn't wanna know and you've already said enough to make me worry." Bianca says holding up a hand to silence the woman.

" It's okay Bianca I'm sure Mickie will be fine. Maggie says trying to comfort her nervous friend. Besides she probably knows like all that self-defense stuff right?"

" I went from beginner to advanced in the same day. What do you think?" Mickie smarts back standing up and leaning over to Bianca. "Look I'm gonna be fine these guys I'm meeting with don't even carry guns so chill. Maggie it was nice talkin' to ya' and if Bianca doesn't relax give her a xanex."

" Will do. Maggie salutes. Nice meeting you too." She barely gets it out before Mickie is out the door.

Leaving the two exes to talk amongst themselves about allot of things.

On her way to her car Frankie is exhaling. " So that was my sister huh, she hasn't changed much except she wasn't wearing a mini skirt this time."

*****************************

Meanwhile back inside the restaurant. There has been another uncomfortable moment of silence. Maggie breaks it " So she seems nice."

Bianca snickers. " Who are you kidding?"

" Good point. Maggie nods. You know who she reminds me of?"

" Frankie."

Maggie nods emphatically." In an odd way, yeah she even kinda looks like her."

" Don't go there Maggie." Bianca warns in a nice way.

" Go where? I was just stating the obvious here. Then it hits Maggie. Oh, my god is that why you're with her because she's like Frankie?"

" No, Bianca immediately objects. I mean the similarities are hard to miss. Maggie shakes her head in the affirmative. But once you get passed all that she's got a whole other side. Bianca explains. She's smart, funny, romantic and kind even though she'd never admit it." Her face lights up the more she talks about the woman.

" I see so how long have you been in love with her?" Maggie enquires knowing Bianca too well not to notice the glow around her eyes.

Bianca smiles slightly embarassed by her old flame noticing her new one. " I think since the first time I looked at her."

**************************

Elsewhere Frankie arrives at the docks.

" Okay, how do you wanna play this good cop/bad cop or just wing it?" Tad asks half joking.

" You're the hot shot P.I. you tell me?" Frankie comes back a bit more harsh than intended.

" Hey easy kid you're definately gonna be the bad cop. Tad replies. Whats up with you anyway I mean you're not exactly a ray of sunshine everyday. But you aren't usually like this either."

Frankie gives him a sarcastic look on that comment. And tells him. " My sister is back in town. It caught me a little off-guard in my whole telling Bianca who I am you'll excuse me if I'm not in the mood for a gab fest."

" Wait Maggie is your sister?"

" Well duh, Maggie Stone-Frankie Stone make the connection yet genius." Frankie replies with attitude.

" Not that it's any of my business but how are you planning on doing that exactly? Telling Bianca who you are I mean." Tad inquires being his usual nosey self.

" You're right it's not any of your business. Frankie says back then sensing he wants some kind of information. But since we're waiting on this dude to show. I was going to give her something that proves I am who I claim to be and not some weirdo."

" And what would that be your drivers license from eight years ago?"

Now Frankie is almost certain he's fishing for info. " Oh, just a centimental thing nothing really. She covers then quickly changes the subject. Now you know we can't do this as cops right? I was on the streets long enough to know they'll smell nark a mile away when they see you comin'. Let me deal with them you duck around that stack of crates." She points.

" These guys are one of the most dangerous groups of dealers out there. I'll do no such thing Frankie." Tad objects.

" Really, have you ever even tried to score a fix? Tad shakes his head no. I didn't think so. These guys they're all kinds of jumpy and who are they gonna believe wants a hit more? Me in my street clothes or you in your discount mens store suit." Frankie reasons.

" Wow, you talk alot in a little bit of time. Tad comments. I see your point though alright. But we should have some kind of signal in case you get into trouble."

" Oh, brother. Frankie rolls her eyes. Alright how about this if I can't handle it myself I'll tap my foot. Or are you too old to hear that?" She smarts.

" Huh..whats that? Tad smarts pretending not to hear.

Before he can say anything else in response Frankie hushes him. " Car doors they're here. Hide now dude."

Tad runs behind the stack of crates listening in on the conversation.

A man walks up dressed in a cheesy looking suit with a cheap gold necklace around his neck. Not very tall he's about Frankie's height. " You Andi?" he asks.

" Who wants to know." Frankie asks playing cool. When really she hadn't been as nervous as she was now. Since the night she faked her death.

" Well your boy Tito called and said you were lookin' to score. But if you're not her I can go elsewhere."

" No, I'm Andi. I was just feelin' you out. Ya' know makin' sure you weren't some nark." Frankie replies.

" You got a real sense of humor on ya' . The man laughs. Me a nark forget about it. You know I kinda' wondered the same about you. 'Cuz Tito didn't really sound very Puerto Rican to me I thought he was a cop."

" That's 'cuz he's not Puerto Rican or a cop either. Frankie dismisses. His wife left him for a Puerto Rican guy and he's got some issues." She covers.

The cheaply dressed man eyes her suspiciously but continues. " So what are you lookin' to score?" He asks walking to his car and removing a small black case.

Frankie breathes deep. ( I swore I'd never do this again for myself and Bianca. No Stone this is different you're actually buying drugs for good now.) She thinks to herself quickly. " Herb, She replies. And I don't want that cheap stuff that makes you all paranoid either." She adds.

" Then you've come to the right place. Funny though I would've had you pegged for heroin."

" Well ya' thought wrong. I don't do needles pal." Frankie says back almost taking his remark personally.

The man opens the case full of drugs and hands Frankie a bag of weed. " That'll be a hundred and twenty bucks."

Unbeknownst to him Tad is sneaking right up behind the dealer. As soon as the exchange is made Tad grabs him and wrestles him to the ground. " Actually that'll be you're under arrest. Hold him Tito." Frankie orders.

" You got it Andi." Tad holds the man while Frankie cuffs him and reads him his rites.

" I knew you were a cop, I just knew it I can smell a cop." The man states.

" Really I resent that remark thats not cop you smell thats my girlfriends shampoo. It's an acquired aroma."Frankie quips as she loads the man into her car. Besides you should've been arrested a long time ago pal one twenty for a lousy bag of weed.'' She says as she fishes the money from his blazer pocket and slams the car door.

"Really what is it? The shampoo I mean." Tad asks making small talk.

" Seaweed extract and lime it takes some getting used to but it's all natural. Did wonders for my highlights." Frankie replies.

" Huh, Tad runs a hand through his hair. Think it'd work for me?"

Frankie snickers. " I didn't know grey hair had highlights man.''

" Hey watch it that's my groovy due you're dissin'. " Tad says with humor in his tone as they get in the car.

" I'm not even going to dignify that with a says drolly. Now lets grill this dude."

**********************

Awhile later. Almost dark Frankie (Mickie) lays across a park bench playing with her keys and thinking.

" Man, I think it was almost easier sleepin' on a park bench than it is to hold down a job. Pay the bills and manage two names while trying to find a way to tell Bianca that I'm the woman who fell for her nine years ago. Cheated on her and then got killed but not really dead." She says to herself stressed out. She spends a few moments in quiet reflection when the silence is broken by none other than her sister Maggie. Who has no idea that she is looking at her sister.

" Hey, What are you doing here? I thought I was the only person brave enough to walk the park at night." Maggie says to the woman she knows as Mickie.

Frankie(Mickie) sits up startled by the looming figure. " Ahh..the dark doesn't scare me much. And I could ask you the same question."

" Can I sit ?" Maggie asks pointing to the empty space on the bench.

" Yeah, it's not my bench." Mickie shrugs.

" Well, I was walking off my sixteen hour flight slash Xanex hangover. Maggie tells her. Your turn."

" I caught a dealer today it was my first bust. And I'm trying to figure out my next move in this drug virus case."

" Ahuh..First off congratulations on your first bust. Second I know about that Bianca sent me an e-mail about it. Didn't they catch the guy already?"

" Nope, but that was before they had me on the case. " Mickie replies with a bit of agitation in her tone.

Maggie picks up on this and interperets it to be hostility towards the dealer. " I take it that it's personal?"

" You could say that yeah, I lost three patients to that guy and his tainted Maggie can start to say anything Mickies cell phone rings. " Hello, oh, hey Bianca. No I'm fine not a scratch on me. Dinner at your moms house friday. Sure I guess. Mickie makes a face to which Maggie snickers. Should I bring something like desert,side dish. Then pointedly. Bullet proof vest. Yes I know thats not funny neither was that tux babe. Alright see you later, you too. Bye."

"So dinner at Erica's house huh. You might actually wanna take that vest. It's been my experiance that food and Erica don't usually 's a bloodshed factor." Maggie comments.

Mickie rolls her eyes and slumps back onto the bench. Leaning her head against the back of the bench. " Yeah, I know it's my fifth LaKane dinner. And I aint exactly jazzed about it."

" So I take it they haven't gone well for you either?"

" No..Lets see Thanksgiving dinner one. She watched B and I like a hawk and then called me a jack of all trades because. I had a double major in college. On Christmas she 'accidently' spilled eggnog all over my only black sweater. Which I had to pay to have dry cleaned myself by the way. Mickie rolls her eyes. Then she ruined mine and Bianca's Valentines day by getting married and putting me in the grooms party..in a tux. Which was better than a dress but still uncomfortable. Because I'm not girly enough for her precious daughter." She finishes dramatically.

" Wow..That sounds like text book Erica alright." Maggie laughs.

Mickie shakes her head. " Catching this dealer is gonna be easier than having her for a mother in law thats for sure."

"Well, I know this probably sounds weird coming from your girlfriends ex. But I start at the hospital in a couple days and if you need medical records or anything let me know an' I'll see what I can do." Maggie offers not really wanting to be buddies with Bianca's girlfriend. But theres something that just screamed Frankie about this girl.

" You're right that does sound weird. Frankie(Mickie) Replies. But I just might take you up on it sometime. Watchout though I'm very demanding." She mock warns her unknowing sister.

Maggie laughs sarcastically. " Thats okay 'cos I charge a fifty percent finders fee."

" I feel better I think I'll get going now. Do you want a ride to your hotel?"

" Uhhmm...I was going to walk back but it is pretty dark..so..yeah I guess."

" Well then lets jet.'' The sisters leave.

****************************

Chapter 8d.

Setting: A couple days later.

Location: Pine Valley hospital.

Frankie comes up to the reception desk to see none other than her sister. Deeply engrossed in a patients chart she just can't resist the urge to scare the woman. Frankie sneaks up behind Maggie and yells. " Boo!"

Maggie is so startled she drops her chart and spins around quickly to see Mickie snickering. " Oh,my god you nearly gave me a heartattack Mickie." She says as she catches her breath.

" I'm sorry I just couldn't resist you were so into that chart." Mickie(Frankie) replies still laughing.

" You know how long it's been since someone did that to me. My sister used to do that to me when we were..actually until we were in highschool she never grew up. Maggie remembers. So how can I help you officer Pierce?"

" First off it's detective Pierce. Second I need a list of every patient admitted with the north river virus." Mickie answers.

Maggie walks behind the desk. " I wouldn't know where to start Mickie."

" Start with anyone admitted for heat seizures and nausea around the start of November til December fifth we had some late comers."

" Okay..Maggie types. I've got it narrowed down to..wow thirty-five people. You guys must've had a re.."

" A real zoo on our hands. Picture a crammed full E.R. understaffed hospital and people with a fever so high we had to dunk'em in ice water just to bring'em down. Sorry you missed it." Mickie elaborates.

" I'm not ,heres your list.'' Maggie hands the papers to Mickie.

" Damn! he's not on here. Mickie curses. He must've used an alias or something."

" Who?"

" Levi Benson is the guy I'm looking for he's the one responsible for this mess. I thought since he was in close contact with the manufacturer maybe he was infected too. Mickie explains. Since almost every seller is a junkie themselves he probably was infected. I just don't know where or how all I know is who and it's driving me crazy." She adds frustratedly.

" Short trip from what I've seen.'' Maggie jests.

" Hey..." Before Mickie can go any further her and Maggie both hear a thud and a loud crash. Coming from exam room one they both hurry to see whats going on. When they come upon a nurse who has been shoved to the floor by a young blonde female patient.

Mickie helps the nurse up. " Hey, you okay Linda?"

" Yes I'm fine..the nurse looks up to recognize who it is. Mickie hey nice to see you. I wish you still worked here she could really use some tough medicine." Linda says pointing to the young woman.

" Nice to see you too Linda. Mickie says then looks at the patient. What's going on here? Why did you shove nurse Monroe like that."

" Because she wouldn't get that damn needle away from me." The woman scoffs.

" Look kid I understand the whole hating of needles thing. But you need that shot so you don't get tetiness." Mickie comes back.

" I'll risk it. I don't want that thing near me. Now can I leave yet?"

" No you can't leave until all that glass is out of your hand and you've had your shot." Maggie objects.

" Here give me that needle Maggie? Maggie looks hesitantly but gives the woman the needle. Alright I bet I can give you this shot and you won't even know it kid." Mickie says walking closer.

" I don't think so I'll run." The blonde youth persists.

Mickie not giving up walks closer still until she is upon the patient. " Okay, now picture yourself in a far off place."

" Don't come any closer to me with that needle lady, and as far as far off places go theres one you go to it's called h.."

"Done. See it works doesn't it? She's all yours Dr. Stone I have to be leaving now." Mickie says smugly.

Then feeling her pockets realizes what has occurred. " Alright kid gimme my money clip back..Now."

" Here..how'd you know I did it?"

" I wasn't always as pleasant to be around as I am now. I used to pick pocket too." Mickie answers then walks over to the doorway where Maggie is standing and whispers. " Watch her hands and her eyes if they move in the same direction she liftin' something off of you."

Maggie is stunned as she watches the woman who could pass for her double leave the hospital. (Frankie used to tell me the exact same thing.) She thinks to herself.

******************************

" So what is she ? Like your twin or something? One of ya' is a cop and the other a doctor. Oww!" Ava enquires as Maggie extracts the glass from her hand.

" No as far as I know we aren't even related and you know if you hold still this wouldn't hurt as much."

" Wow, I could've swore especially the way you two teamed up on me."

" Sorry to dissapoint you. Okay now I gotta stitch ya' up." ( No way. She can't be Frankie.) Maggie thinks to herself as she cleanses the wound once more before starting to sew.

************************

Later that same day. Mickie is back at the emergency room.

" Hey, what are you back here for?'' Maggie asks seeing her.

" I come here for the atmosphere. Mickie smarts. Actually work, I'm here to pick up a patient of yours, Ava Benton?"

" Room three b. Maggie responds walking her to the room snickering a bit. So did you get any leads off that paper?"

" I got it narrowed down to about ten dudes who fit the description. Of a tall,dark haired guy who likes weed.''

" So not alot then huh?''

" Nope, not alot. Whats up why are snickering? Mickie asks as Maggie opens the door to Ava's hospital room. Oh, great its you. She groans seeing none other than the woman who picker her pocket earlier. Just my luck I ask for overtime they give me you."

" What ? Why is she here?" Ava reacts.

" To take your pocket picking hands into custody. Only we're not goin' to a jail."

" Where are we going oh, lone officer." Ava asks dramatically.

" My place I have to watch you until your court date. Make sure you don't bolt."

Maggie sniffs the air. " Oh, gross what is that Mickie you smell like you've been in a fish net." She says pinching her nose.

" Yeah, you do smell really gross." Ava adds wincing.

" Thats what happens when your idiot partner makes a stakeout arrangement in a fish warehouse." Mickie says matter of factly.

" Whoa, I'll just go get you a dismissal form. I'll be right back if I don't pass out first." Maggie tells the who looks like her.

" Don't leave me here Dr. Stone I might die from the smell.'' Ava's plea falls on deaf ears as Maggie leaves the room.

I'm not going anywhere with you."

" Well that's fine with me. So I'll be taking you to the jailhouse then. We just busted a womans biker bar today I'm sure you'll get a nice roomate. Who was that woman that slipped me her number? I can't remember her name I think it was B..."

" Alright I get the point I'll go with you. But I don't like you and you smell rancid." Ava gives in but with hesitation.

" Heres your form you both have to sign it since she's an adult. Maggie tells Mickie coming back into the room with a mask on. And here are her anti-biotics."

" Cool mask but I'm not a bio-hazard Maggie." Mickie states signing the paper and heading over to the bed to let Ava Sign it. Maggie cuts her off mid-way and takes the paper.

" You smell like one Mickie. Here give me that. I think Ava here is going to suffer enough on the car ride to your place." Maggie hands the paper over to Ava who reluctantly signs it. " Okay you're free to go."

Ava just gets up and heads out the door. " Keep ten paces in front or behind me at all times. I don't wanna survive a hospital just to be killed by your fish cologne."

" I'd be careful if I were you. I think you've met your match with officer Pierce here. Maggie smirks then going to leave herself pats Mickie on the shoulder and says. Oh, bye the way the nurses told me about that betting pool. And the tv thing."

" Oh, god. I'm never gonna live that down am I? See ya' later Maggie. Thanks for helping me." Mickie(Frankie) Replies blushing.

" No problem. Have fun and please if not for Ava's sake take a shower for Bianca's shes got a weak stomach."

" Will do." Mickie salutes before leaving.

*******************************

Mickies apartment long minutes later. She shoves Ava through the door and plops her down in a chair.

" Okay, Lets laydown some ground rules here. No drugs, no alcohol, My girlfriends got a kid so no swearing when she's around. Watch what you want,listen to music, cook I don't care. The mess is your responsibility to clean up. If you don't said priviledge is gone. And the shower is mine after seven-thirty in the morning. Are we clear on all that." Mickie lectures.

Ava sits in quiet shock for a minute then nods. Never having had so many rules thrown at her at once. "Is that all drill sargent?"

" Trust me kid I ain't no drill sargent. Mickie laughs mockingly. If I were you'd be doin' some serious pushups right now."

" Do you have anything to eat in this place?"

" Yeah, Mickie says heading to the fridge and pulling out a plate. I hope you like leftovers 'cos you gotta eat somethin' to take those pills m..Dr. Stone gave you."

" You cook? funny I would've figured you for a take out kinda girl.''

Mickie laughs. '' I am this is my girlfriends cooking. Here you go and take this when you're done." She instructs handing the plate to Ava. Who takes a few bites and looks up.

" This is really good. I had no idea you guys could cook. Although I see now what would convert you."

Mickie rolls her eyes and takes a seat on the sofa. " Yeah, right her mashed potatoes made me gay. For someone smart enough to be a pick pocket and a con. You're a real idiot kid."

Ava swallows her dinner and takes a drink. "Wow, I thought I had attitude. she says shaking her head. Didn't your mother ever teach you not to be rude to guests?"

" I don't have a mother so can it kid." Mickie spouts.

" Ooh, what are you going to do to me orphan annie. Ava smarts pretending to be scared. Like I'm suprised she probably took one look at you and ran the other way. And I'm not a kid."

Mickie (Frnakie) Stands clearly irritated and moves over to Ava taking her shirt collar in her hands for effect. " Listen you brat you don't know me. You don't know what I've been through so until you do shut that rat trap you call a mouth. Or else I'll throw you in jail and you can stay there 'til you rot since you probably will anyway. I don't care about you, I don't give a damn who you think I am but I got news you say anything like what you just to me to Bianca and I'll kick your thieving ass all over this town we clear?" She says in a lowe threatening tone that only matches the cold stare her eyes have taken on.

This makes Ava squirm in her shell. " Yeah, I got it. Now let me go will ya'? Mickie releases her grip on the young woman. Geez you're intense I thought you were gonna strangle me.'' She states straightening her shirt back.

" Right like I'd waist a good life sentence on a piece of work like you. Dream on kid I don't kill people but if you mess with me I'll make you wish I had."

" Alright I got the message. Now if we can drop the drama for a minute. Bianca is that your girlfriends name?"

" Yep,"

" Well what made you gay then?" Ava asks innocently enough.

" I don't know I just am you got a problem with that?" Mickie comes back.

" No, no problem I just was curious you're the first gay person I've ever had to live with."

Mickie shakes her head. " I see and you wanna know what makes me want to be with women and not guys like everybody else right?" Mickie inquires Ava gives a silent nod. " I don't really have a black and white answer to that. I think I was just born predisposed to be into girls. " She tries explaining to the girl.

" So what you were never attracted to guys?"

" No not really. "

" You said the name Bianca before as in Erica Kanes daughter Bianca Montgomery?" Ava inquires.

" Uhuh."

" That must be some serious drama she's like intense. "

"More than you think, How do you know Erica?" Mickie asks with a raised brow.

" Shes my sisters step-mom. Have you met her Lily Montgomery."

" Yeah, I've met her. Shes alot nicer than you are. If I ever need someone to do my taxes she'd be the go to girl. She can add like no one I've ever seen." Mickie explains.

" Yeah, she's studying computer math and stuff at a tech college. You know shes autistic right?"

" So.. shes smarter than most people. You say shes studying computer math. Like statistics and codes and stuff." Mickie enquires curiously.

" I think so I'm not as good with that tech stuff as she is why?"

" Because she might be able to help me. I'm working on this case and the suspect I just know was infected with that drug virus. I got a list of patients from the hospital but it'll take the computer lab forever. Lily could do it in like a week."

" I'm sure she'd like that. My sister loves a good mystery thats how she found me. Ava comments. So you mean that North River thing?"

" Yes, I gotta find that dude so I can charge him with three murders. He knowingly distributed tainted drugs making them ill. "

Before Ava can respond theres a knock at the door. Mickie answers it only to be suprised with a kiss. " Hey you..Ewww..what is that smell Mickie you stink like a fish market? " Ava doubles over laughing.

" Well thats 'cos Tad setup a stakeout in a fish warehouse. And you just be quiet." Mickie warns pointing at Ava.

" Who is this?" Bianca asks curiously.

" This is Ava my assignment on the side. I have to watch her and make she doesn't runaway again. Until her court date."

" Hey, I know you, you're Lillies sister right? Mickie shes trouble she tried to con alot of us when she first came to town." Bianca warns.

" Guilty as charged, Ava raises a hand, Hi Bianca."

( So did I babe. You changed me though.) Mickie thinks to herself. " It's okay I can handle her she can't con me.''

" How is my sister anyway?" Ava asks Bianca.

" Shes fine. Shes starting her second semester at college. If you really wanna know why don't you ask her."

" I can't she shouldn't be anywhere near somebody like me. Shes better off not knowing me." Ava regards.

" I don't think so Ava You're her sister..."

" Bianca honey if she wanted to talk to Lily she would. Don't mess with it okay Lily and Ava are both old enough to work things out for themselves. But it's cute how you're trying to give it a nudge." Mickie grins and leans in to kiss the dark eyed woman. When Bianca puts a hand up to Mickies face.

" Uh, sweetey could you shower first. 'Cos you kinda make me sick and I don't wanna throw up on you." Bianca hesitates.

'' Oh, thats romantic. Yeah, I'll be right back and you. She looks at Ava. Be nice."

" Yes,sir." Ava mocks.

"Watch it kid. Can you put up with this?"

" I can handle it Mickie. Now go before you kill us all with that smell." Bianca says pinching her nose.

" That is truly the worst thing I've ever inhaled." Ava agrees.

" It ain't good. Bianca states. So what happened to your hand?"

" Oh, nothing I just ran it through a window trying to break out of a room was all. You know you're a really good cook."

" Thank you. What room?" Bianca asks as she sits down on the comfy couch.

" A hotel room at the Valley inn Aiden locked me in there and it was on the second floor. So I just broke the window and climbed out. I got some glass in my hand in the process no big." Ava shruggs.

" I see well I wouldn't try that with Mickie she'll probably put bars on the windows now. ''

'' No kiddin' shes more intense than your mom.''

'' I don't think so kid theres nobody more intense than Erica Kane. Well do I smell better everyone?" Mickie asks taking a seat next to Bianca.

" Yes." Ava and Bianca both say.

" So do I get that kiss now?"

" Sure come here." Bianca says flirtingly.

'' Eww..you guys act like a couple of teenagers. I just had good food I don't wanna lose it." Ava says making a face.

" Then look away." Mickie comments kissing Bianca's cheek.

" It's okay I have to be going anyway. I just thought I'd stop by and see you before I went home from work." Bianca tells them both.

" Well let me walk you to your car and I'll carry your books for you. Gee do you think your mom'll be mad that you broke curfew?" Bianca rolls her eyes sarcastically. ''What she said we were like teenagers."

" Come on you. Bianca says taking the womans hand and leading her out. Bye Ava."

" Later Bianca." Ava says amused at the situation comedy.

As soon as Mickie gets back inside. " You guys are funny together.''

" Thanks I guess. She's not as funny as I am but...Mickie's train of thought shifts she suddenly starts hitting her forehead. Oh, man stupid,stupid how could I forget that?"

" Huh? Forget what ?" Ava enquires curiously.

" Like it's any of your business. Tommorow is Mine and Bianca's six month anniversary and I totally spaced it. Now I gotta get her a gift before tommorow night." Mickie explains scuffing her foot on the hardwood floor.

" I'm sure you'll think of something after all you are a detective just find out what she wants more than anything and give it to her. Ava suggests in a nicer I have a place to sleep or am I allowed?"

" How come you're so nice to her and so smart with me? Yes you're allowed the sofa I'll get you a blanket." Mickie replies. Tossing a blanket to the younger woman. " Goodnight and don't try anything I'm a lite sleeper,ears like a dog an' all that junk."

Mickie(Frankie) is lying in bed thinking. " I can't believe this. she says to herself. What would Bianca want more than anything else. I was fresh outta ideas after the heartshaped necklace on christmas. Then she perks up. I know what I can give her I know she'll be suprised atleast. Even if its not in a good way. Frankie looks upwards. Please I did this for her safety and mine don't let her hate me." Was Frankies silent prayer before drifting off to sleep.

*******************************

Mickie ( Frankie) awakes to the aroma of something cooking. Curiously she sniffs the air around her. " Is that eggs and toast and bacon? Whats going on in my kitchen?" She wonders walking out of her bedroom and into the hallway in boxers and a tank top. " Ava are you cooking? If you are you're cleaning up the mess." She calls out laughter is the only response.

While at the same time in the kitchen Bianca is scurrying about. Trying to finish cooking before Mickie discovers what shes doing.

" Hurry shes coming, Ava warns then laughing says. She thinks I'm the one cooking."

Bianca laughs too. " Do you think she'll like it?"

" How should I know I just met her." Ava shruggs.

" Good point, Bianca nods buttering the toast. Thanks so much for letting me in this morning. I don't know where my key went to."

" No big besides it aint my place. Who am I to say who comes in and goes out." Ava comments in a normal tone just as Mickie comes into the kitchen.

" Whats all this?" She mumbles in a sleepy voice.

Bianca walks over to her with a cup of coffee and gives her a kiss on the cheek. " Happy anniversary, Bianca then hands Mickie the coffee. Don't say it back until you've had your coffee. You're too grouchy without it."

Mickie takes a seat at the table clears her throat and takes a few sips of the coffee. Then grins and looks at the woman sitting in the chair next to hers. " Happy anniversary to you too. You made me breakfast B...but I didn't.. I mean I haven't gotten you anything yet."

Bianca pats her on the shoulder. " It's okay look at it like this I gave you, your present early. "

" Alright, Mickie smiles. You know I can't object to eggs, bacon and toast. I never eat breakfast." She states.

Ava snickers. " That explains it."

" Explains what?" Mickie asks with a hint of agitation in her voice.

" Why you're such a grouch. Don't you know not eating breakfast can throw off like stuff in your brain. Making you especially you well crabby."

" Oh,just laugh it up the both of you. I knew that I am a liscensed doctor ya' know." Mickie smarts back Bianca is chuckling. " What don't tell me you're on her side."

" She makes a good point honey, you are a bit of a grouch in the mornings."

" If you'll excuse me I'm gonna use the shower before it's what'd you say,'All yours' .'' Ava smarts.

" Thanks again for helping me." Bianca calls out.

" No problem." Ava replies shutting the bathroom door.

Mickie picks up the paper and starts reading.

"She's not so bad I think she just needs some guidance. From someone whose been in her shoes before." Bianca states hintingly.

Mickie remains silent for a moment then peaks one eye out from her paper. "What is that look for I know that look Bianca. It usually means either we have to talk about feelings or that you're about to tell me to do something I don't wanna do for my own good so I can like 'grow as a person'.''

Bianca puts her hands up. " I was not about to do or say any such thing. I'm just thinking maybe it would be good for both of you. If you helped her a little bit thats all. You know maybe get her a job or something. But if you don't want to."

" Oh, boy now you do want me to do something. I know kids like Ava I was one. The space she's in now she doesn't want help. She wants money and a quick solution to her problems." Mickie reasons.

" I see and did you want help for yourself when you were on the streets. Mickie just looks solemly at Bianca. No I didn't think so not until you fell for that girl right?"

" Bianca what are you saying you want her to fall for me." Mickie says with sarcasm but not in a mean way.

" No, silly I want you to keep an open mind and try to help her want help. Who knows she might suprise you.'' Bianca explains.

Mickie nods her head slightly. " Alright, I'll try but I make no promises. She's a real pain in the...''

" Here have some eggs. Bianca says cutting her off with a forkfull of egg. I made them just like you like. With black pepper and chives.''

" Mmmm...Mickie mumbles after swallowing the eggs. They're delicious, But you know I knew you were trying to shut me up. And well I think you need some toast.. here.'' Mickie unceremoniously shoves the toast in Bianca's face.

" Not to bad if I do say so myself. But you have to pay for that.'' Bianca grins mischieviously.

" Oh, yeah before you start plotting your revenge. You might wanna get the butter off your face first.'' Mickie snickers watching Bianca try and find and wipe off the butter. " Come here I'll get it.'' With that she leans in and kisses the butter away.

" Thank you but I think I might have some more on me.'' Bianca hints.

Mickie smiles and then squints looking closely at Bianca's face. " You know what, I think I see it.'' They start kissing again.

" Ewww...gross can't you two knock it off long enough for people to digest.'' Ava teases interupting the happy couples moment.

" Give..us..five..minutes..mom." Mickie smarts between kisses.

Ava shakes her head. " You know what it's cool I'll just eat in the bedroom. Enjoy.'' She states as she picks up her plate and walks down the hall. She hears Mickie call out.

" No..crumbs in the..bed.''

They finally break away from each other. " So did I get it all?''

Bianca laughs affectionately. " Yes Mickie you got it all. Do you think we should call her back now.''

" Yeah, I suppose buzzkill..Ava it's safe you can return. No 'll behave I promise.'' They listen still nothing. Mickie gets up from the table she and Bianca make their way down the hall to Mickie's bedroom. And open the door to reveal an open window and no Ava. '' What'd I tell you she is trouble. She doesn't want help she just wants to run and keep running.'' Mickie states as she hurriedly gets dressed in white jeans and a black shirt.

" I still say she's running because she doesn't know anything else. And where are you going?"

" You can't save everybody Bianca some people don't want it. And I'm going to find her I have to.'' Mickie replies simply as she heads for the door.

" Wait I'm coming with you I want to help find her.''

Once outside. " Alright, you go that way and I'll go this way. Call me if you find her.'' Mickie says as she and Bianca run off to find Ava.

*****************************

Some long minutes later.

Bianca's cell phone rings. " Hello,''

" Hey, Bianca you can stop lookin' I found her. Betcha you'll never guess where.'' Mickie says.

" Where?"

" The rooftop at Fusion you can come here or you can go on with your day. I myself have a murder to commit.''

" I can't believe she went there. Bianca reacts. Don't kill her Mickie this is where you start asking her why. Or being compassionate and finding out the problem to help her. I'll be there in five minutes.'' Bianca says and then hangs up.

*****************

Chapter 9a.

" Was that Bianca? Is she coming here?" An upset Ava asks.

" Yeah, for some reason she likes you. Mickie retorts sitting down next to Ava on the ledge. She told me not to be hard on you although I don't know why. She said to ask you why you ran?"

" I just felt couped up. I needed fresh air thats all.'' Ava covers too obviously for Mickie(Frankie) not to notice.

" Thats not a very good excuse you've been at my place for less than sixteen hours. So spill whats the real problem here? Mickie inquires then looking sincere says. You can tell me I won't judge you. Cause I doubt theres anything you've done that I haven't.''

" You really are serious huh?"

" Ohh...yeah. What did you think I was always this pleasant to be around.'' Mickie quips.

" Really this is you being pleasant. Ava says sarcastically, Mickie narrows her eyes at the remark. Okay I was scared I don't wanna go to jail. But after I bailed I realised that running would just make things worse. So I stopped and came up here to think and thats the actual truth. ''

" Now that I believe. Ahh..Bianca heres our runaway kid. Mickie gets up and moves toward the taller woman. I already talked to her you're right that whole nice thing works.''

" Well I hate to say I told you so..But I told you so. Bianca regards. So does she want to talk to me?"

" No, I'm okay but thanks Bianca. You're really nice to offer.'' Ava says politely.

" Whenever you need someone to talk to. When my dear,sweet girlfriend is being stubborn call me and I'll try to help.'' Bianca tells the younger woman.

" Why are you being nice to me?''

(Whoa, I used to say that to Bianca. This kid is just like me..only straight and without a psycho aunt trying to kill her.) Mickie(Frankie) Thinks to herself.

'' I don't know I guess because I love Lily and I'd like to see you two be sisters again.'' Bianca explains.

" Yeah, plus Bianca here just loves to be sweet. It's why I like her she's...''

" Nicer than you are. '' Ava finishes.

" Hey..Mickie states objectively. Yes. '' She admits.

" It's okay honey I already knew you weren't as sweet as me.'' Bianca jests playfully.

" God , Ava shakes her head. You two really are funny together. Well lets get back to the pr..your apartment for lockdown and bedcheck.''

" There is no bedcheck smartellic I've got a nanny-cam I don't have to check on you.'' Mickie smarts. " And we're not going home just yet.''

"Well where are we going?"

" Shopping come on lets go. We'll see you later Bink wave bye,bye now kid.'' Mickie smarts to Ava cuffing her wrist and pulling her along.

" Bye Bianca see you later, that is if your troll of a girlfriend lets me live.''

" I heard that I'm cuffed to your arm remember.'' Mickie states.

Bianca cannot help but be slightly amused. " Bye see you later.'' she waves.

********************

As soon as they're out of earshot.

" Why am I handcuffed to you?"

" So I can keep an eye on you in case you get the urge to pull another stunt. Until I can trust you you'll either be cuffed to me or to a large blunt object of my choosing. This is what prison is like get used to it cause the next time you run thats where you'll end up.''

" Alright, So what are we shopping for ? Is it something for Bianca? I bet shes an earings kinda girl.'' Ava states assuredly.

" You really are a moron huh kid?Mickie says not really asking running a hand through her hair. Bianca doesn't like useless gifts. She likes stuff from the heart like candlelit dinners and walks on the beach. Slow dancing under the stars. I could give her earrings and she'd like them but not as much as something that I did myself. She's a rare human being see unlike you or me money and fancy things don't matter to her even though she's got enough of it to buy a Bently. On her worst day she's more caring and considerate than we are on our best.'' She explains plainly.

" Oh, man you don't just love her do you? No you're in love with her. Ava points out smiling. This is just like the movies.''

" Huh? I'm sorry did I miss something?"

" You know rich girl meets poor gu..I mean girl they fall madly in love. Because somehow they understand each other this is like so romantic.'' Ava explains.

" I think you're crazy, But you've got a point. Now lets get going I'm gonna be late.''

" Where are we going?"

" I told you shopping on the streets of Landview.'' Mickie informs the young woman and pulls her by the cuffs.

Unbeknownst to them both Bianca overheard the entire exchange and is touched by Mickies words. She smiles wide and hurries to open up the rest of the building for work.

***********************************

Setting: An alley in a bad looking part of Landview.

" Alright now do you understand what to do?"

" Yes Mickie I understand. Ava rolls her eyes. I don't know how good I'll be though I've never bought drugs.''

" Just be your usual charming self and you'll do fine. Now get outta here and come straight back when you're done.''

" Yes drill sargent will do drill sargent.'' Ava smarts before exiting the vehicle.

" You do realise she's going to run as soon as shes finished. Dealing with that seller don't you?" Tad asks.

" Oh, I wouldn't be too sure of that."Frankie says pulling out a small tv like device from her jacket pocket.

" What is that..wait don't tell me you're batman right?" Tad jokes.

" Funny no I got this from the office. It's a listening device and a tracker all rolled into one. I planted a small bug in Ava's jacket pocket before I went to bed last night. It will send us a signal through this and if she bolts...''

" You'll know exactly where to and how far. Plus you'll get the seller on tape.'' Tad Finishes.

" Yep, I just love technology.'' Frankie grins evilly.

" I gotta hand it to ya' Frankie you really do think like a criminal.''

" I'll take that as a compliment even if it did sound bad.'' Frankie jokes.

" I'm back.'' Ava anounces.

" Did you get the stuff?"

" Yes, right here.'' Ava replies handing Tad the baggie of drugs.

" And.''

" And I told him my friend wanted to score some powder too. I gave him the number you asked me to and he said he'd call and arrange an appointment soon.'' Ava informs Tad and 'Mickie'. So now where to?"

" Well lets see. Mickie looks at her watch. It's three o'clock now we've got to drop the drugs off at the lab. Then I have some paperwork to do. Then we're going shopping.''

" Like drug shopping or like mall makeover shopping?" Ava inquires.

Mickie rolls her eyes. " Mall makeover shopping. I need some new clothes for tonight with Bianca I wanna look nice.'' She explains.

" Cool, Ava ghasps. I can totally help you, first we'll do your makeup then we'll find you a dress..''

" Ava I don't do dresses and as far as makeup goes..no. Why don't you let me dress me I do a pretty job the rest of the time don't I?"

Tad snickers as does Ava.

" Okay thats it you can both go to jail.'' Mickie states as she starts driving.

***************************

After filing some paperwork and dropping things off at the drug lab. Mickie takes a second outside the department to call Bianca. " Hey guess who?''

" Uhmm..oh, I know but I thought I told you not to call me here my girlfriends going to find whispers. And you don't wanna mess with her she's a cop.'' She plays.

" Very funny just for that I give up on our anniversary bye.'' Mickie playfully pretends to hang up.

" Okay, okay I surrender you nut. Bianca laughs everyone in the office listens in. What did you call to tell me?''

At this point Babe, Annie and Dani are huddled close to the phone and Bianca. Kendall observes this and rolls her eyes sarcastically.

" Oh, brother this is the most insane display I've ever seen.'' Kendall remarks.

" Shh..''Bianca hushes her mouthy sister.

" Was that Kendall? Did she say something smart? Tell her I'm comin' down there to arrest her right now.'' Mickie says on the other end.

" Hey, Kendall Mickie says she's going to have you arrested if you don't knock it off.'' Bianca repeats.

" Tell her it doesn't matter I've got a rich husband I'll make bail before I even get to the prison.'' Kendall smarts back leaving the room as though looking for something.

" She says she'll make bail before you can arrest her. Bianca tells the woman on the other end. So now what did you call me for?''

" Ahh..yes why did I call you? Oh, right 'cuz it's our anniversary and I have a suprise for you. Don't ask questions just make yourself pretty and I'll pick you up at instructs then. Not that you aren't already pretty.''

" Yeah, I know what you mean Mickie and thank you. I'll see you tonight then. ''

" Yep, and don't bother trying to sneak into my apartment poking around looking for gifts either. I have it with me in a manner of speaking.'' Mickie says mysteriously.

" Darn you've figured me out Mickie Pierce I have no choice but to assimilate you. Bianca replies teasingly. I'll see you later I've gotta get back to work babe.''

" K, See ya' bye.''

" Bye.'' The call ends.

" So spill what was all that about. Oh, wait I know this is your six month anniversary isn't it?'' Babe asks.

" Yes, and she's got a 'suprise' for me. She said not to look for it though she has it with her. My only instructions are to get pretty and she'll pick me up at eight. Then she said I was already pretty.'' Bianca gushes.

" Awwe...'' The women in the room sigh.

" I wonder what she has planned for you two anyway?'' Babe enquires.

" You and me both. Bianca remarks as she works on her computer. now I have to go find something to wear for tonight. When I get home.''

" Well don't worry too much I think Mickie will like you in whatever you wear.'' Babe replies.

" She is really into you Bianca. And vice versa by the way. You stare at that Christmas picture of you guys anymore today Kendalls going to...'' Before Babe can finish Kendall does it for her.

" Going to knock some sense back into you. Thats what. No stop that. Kendall waves a finger. Don't egh.. you're glowing. And your eyes are all glazed over god this is truly making me ill.''

" Thank you Kendall. Glad to know my being happy makes you suffer so.'' Bianca retorts amused.

" Thats not what I meant. Look why don't you take the rest of the day off and go find something to wear on your mystery date. And Tell Mickie I wish you both a happy anniversary.'' Kendall calls out as Bianca skips to the elevator.

" I will thank you Kendall. I'll see you guys later.''

" Alright but we want details missy.'' Babe replies the women nod in unison.

" Yes ma'am.'' Bianca says back just as the doors to the elevator close.

********************************

Later that same evening.

'' K, I'm all ready so what do you think? Think Bianca will like it?" A nervous Mickie asks Ava who is checking her out making sure she looks alright.

" I do, You look really hot if you weren't a girl I'd date you. Those dark jeans and that white ruffled blouse go good together on you.'' Ava replies nicely.

" Thanks I'll note that. And thanks for helping me kid, So you can have pizza I left some money on the counter. And I'll be back around...actually don't wait up.''

" You know you aren't suposed to leave me unsupervised right?"

" Who says I am. Mickie walks to the door and opens it. Vito come on in make yourself comfortable. If she misbehaves or tries to run just cuff her to something I find it's very effective. I'll be back late so don't wait up I really appreciate this.'' Mickie says politely.

" No problem Mick, enjoy your date. I can handle girly here.'' Vito replies.

" Heres hopin' anyway. Later.'' With that Mickie leaves.

**********************

Moments later at Bianca's apartment.

" Hey.'' Bianca says opening her door revealing a red dress that showes her curves. And a glowing smile.

Mickie is speachless for a second taking in the sight of the woman. " Wow, Bianca you look..did I ever tell you how beautiful you are. Because if I didn't I should have, that dress looks gorgeous on you.''

Bianca blushes and smiles widely. " Thank you, I could say the same for you in that shirt and those jeans.''

" Yeah, I went shopping Ava made me her how'd she put it 'Frankenstein project' . They both laugh at that. So are you all ready to go?"

" Yes I am, Bianca replies walking out into the hallway. Where are we going anyway?''

Mickie grins wide and pulls out a blindfold. " Well thats for me to know and you to find out.'' She says as she blindfolds an unsuspecting Bianca.

"Mickie what are you doing? Why am I being blindfolded?"

" I don't want you to know where we're going til we get there. Now take my arm, You've been doing all the suprises it's my turn to suprise you.'' Mickie tells the dark haired girl leaning on her arm as they walk carefully to the elevator.

*******************

Jack's office at the D.A.

" I'm telling you Jack I saw Mickie buying drugs.'' Erica states.

" Ahuh, and?" is Jack's simple reply.

" What do you mean and..Erica says dramatically. Jack shes on drugs god knows what she could do. Why are you laughing Jack this isn't funny.''

" No, you're right it's not funny that you've got it in for Mickie. Whats funny is that she's buying drugs to catch the man who caused the virus. You know the one her and your son cured.''

" Oh, I see so this is a police thing. Erica breathes a sigh of inner relief. I feel terrible for thinking she was on drugs. It's just that she reminds me so much of that Frankie.''

" As I recall Frankie wasn't on drugs either. You tried to have them planted on her. Erica gives him a look. There was only the one incident where she tried to get drugs at S.O.S but we have a bit more insight into that now.'' Jack reasons.

" Yes, I know she was Vanessa's probe. But it doesn't mean I have to suddenly like her because she wasn't an addict.'' Erica replies.

" You like somebody for a good reason Erica perish the thought.'' Jack teases.

" Alright you. I guess I'll be going home now Mr. Montgomery.'' Erica says with a seductive smile.

" I will see you in an hour Mrs. Montgomery.'' Jack smiles back knowingly.

************************

The Beach some moments later.

Mickie is leading a heel clad Bianca through sand she is still blindfolded.

'' If I didn't know any better I'd say we were walking on sand. '' Bianca says with a curious tone.

" We might be.'' Mickie hints.

" Mickie heels and sand don't mix well.'' Bianca adds.

" Well then lets take our shoes off before we get any farther.'' The women pause to remove their shoes and continue on Mickie steps on Bianca's foot unintensionally.

" Oww, Mickie you stepped on my foot.''

" Sorry.''

" Are we almost there I'm really curious. You've obviously gone through alot of trouble with the blindfold and everything.'' Bianca says excitedly.

" Well be curious no more.'' Mickie undoes the blindfold and Bianca's jaw drops in suprise. " I take it that means you like it.''

" 'Like' is an understand Mickie I love it.'' Bianca ghasps. Looking on at an area of the beach that has been decorated in wild flowers and carefully placed candles light up the night. She looks further to see a large bolder that has been setup as a table with two smaller ones as chairs.

" Well if you're done staring. Would you like to be seated at our finest table Miss Montgomery?" Mickie asks smiling proud of taking Bianca's breath away.

" Yes, I would Miss Pierce.'' Bianca smiles and takes a seat on one of the boulders. The table has a white cloth on it and two dinner plates with cover lids. Two champaigne glasses and a bottle of sparkling cider top it off.

" May I offer you some of our vintage sparkling cider?'' Mickie asks playing into the role of server.

" Yes, you may, thank you.''

" And for the main course tonight we have...'' Mickie removes the plate lids.

Bianca starts laughing. " Smoked salmon you aren't subtle are you?"

" Never, except this was smoked in a kitchen other than mine. Mickie quips then more seriously. Bianca?''

" Yeah.''

" Happy anniversary.''

" Happy anniversary to you too. This is like the best gift I've ever gotten on an anniversary.'' Bianca comments.

" What Maggie and that other girl weren't good with the suprises?" Mickie inquires taking a sip of the cider.

" I think thats a bit of a complicated question they were good at suprises just..''

" The wrong kind of suprises right?"

" Exactly. I really am loving this though.''

They gaze into one anothers eyes for a long moment as if they've been together for years.

*************************

sometime later.

The women have been talking and laughing enjoying some much deserved time alone. When Mickie suddenly gets a very serious look on her face. " Bianca I have something to tell you and......(Come on Stone you can do this just tell her and then she can hate you forever for lying to her all this time.) She thinks to herself taking in a deep breath. And I need you to believe me no matter how strange it sounds.''

Bianca also becomes serious looking. " Okay, what do you have to tell me?"

" Bianca i'm n..Before Mickie can go any further with her statement her phone rings. Hold on one sec it's the babysitter who can bench three hundred pounds. " Hey Vito whats goin' on I thought I told you not to call unless it was an emergency. What she won't let you look at it, is she three? No, it's alright you can't take her anyway I'll be there in twenty. Tell her to calm down getting worked up will only make it worse,bye."

" What is it whats wrong with Ava?" Bianca asks completely tossing aside the events of only moments ago.

" Her hand is swollen she won't let Vito look at it. I have to take her to the emergency room wanna come with?"

" Of course I do I wanna know whats wrong with her too.''

" I know whats wrong she hasn't been taking her anti-biotic because she's an idiot. Lets go I'm sorry about this.'' Mickie apologizes.

" It's okay atleast we got to have dinner first and we did have a pretty good time.'' Bianca replies as she helps blow out the candles.

" True, come on.''

***********************

A few moments later.

Setting Mickies apartment.

" Okay, I'm here let me see your hand.'' Mickie states unwrapping the bandage to reveal green puss coming out from the open areas. " Why didn't you take your meds like Dr. Stone and I told you to?"

" I forgot okay.'' Ava replies with a hiss as Mickie puts a slight pressure to the wound only to see more green puss run out.

" No, not okay. Your wounds where the glass was are now seriously infected with oh, man red streaks and swelling. Plus let me check something. Mickie puts a hand to Ava's forehead. You've got a fever of about one 'o' three. ''

" So whats that m...'' Before she can finish Ava passes out.

" Ava, Ava! Mickie jogs the young woman back to consciousness. Come on we're going to your favorite place, the E.R." She says as she and Bianca walk Ava out the door slowly. To the car and drive off.

************************

Seconds later they are rushing through the Emergency room doors Mickie sets Ava down on a gurney. And spots Maggie going over a chart. " Maggie I brought you your favorite patient back.''

" No refunds or ex-changes. Maggie quips walking over to examine Ava. So what do we have here?"

" Infected hand you'll probably want to run a blood panel and drain the fluid for testing aswell. It could be staff shes running a fever and she was pretty out of it on the way over.'' Mickie explains her medical training having kicked in the second she saw the infected wounds.

" Wow, thanks you've done my work for me. Maggie comments with a hint of sarcasm. How about I go to the police department and play cop for a day. How'd this happen?" She asks.

" Funny, Mickie rolls her eyes. She hasn't been taking her meds you prescribed her. She answers then looking at Ava directly. What makes you think you can do that? You're not invincible you know you could lose a hand right?''

" Lose my hand!''

" Yeah, lose your hand. Of all the dumb things to do I mean what are you a grown up or a kid?'' Mickie scolds.

Ava still in shock over the situation and delirious with fever can only reply. " Lose my hand.'' Before once again passing out on the gurney.

Mickie just shakes her head annoyedly.

" Oh, my god is she going to be alright? '' A worried Bianca asks.

" She'll be fine.'' Mickie and Maggie both respond.

" We'll have to admit her though and drain that nasty wound.'' Maggie adds. " And I'll start her on tetrocyclene by the hoseful. ''

" My thoughts exactly.'' Mickie agrees.

" You both look nice whats the occasion or do you always dress up before going to the hospital?" Maggie asks looking the women over especially Bianca.

" It's our anniversary we were having dinner when Ava's guard called.'' Mickie explains.

" Well congratulations how long?"

" Our six-month.'' Bianca answers hesitantly sharing details about her new relationship. With an ex wasn't really her style.

" I'm really happy for you both if you'll excuse me. I just have to go fill out some forms.'' Maggie says in small voice.

***********************

Chapter 9b.

Last time on my version of what future AMC could be like. Ava made a quick getaway only to be caught. Mickie suspects her of trying to pull a con over on Bianca. But has yet to find evidence and also has yet to find the dealer on her case. Mickie and Bianca enjoyed a quiet evening on the beach and just as Mickie was about to say something important when her cellphone rang. They rushed off to take an ailing Ava to the E.R.

***************************

Mickie's place. Late at night the couple have left the hospital now that Ava will be staying there for a few days.

" So what is it that you were going to tell me before Mickie?'' Bianca asks as she starts a kettle of water to boil on the stove.

" What? Oh, that nothing important. It can wait.'' Mickie shruggs.

Bianca gingerely sits down at the table. In the chair closest Mickie. " It didn't sound like nothing. When you went all serious on me. I want to know Mickie what did you plan on telling me?"

" It's no big deal Bianca. Just let it go if it were terribly serious I'd've told you.'' Mickie tries to cover Bianca sees right through the dark blonde womans cover up.

" Well if it's not a big deal then I guess you won't have trouble telling me.'' The dark eyed woman presses.

Mickie breathes she knows that if doesn't say anything. It will only end up in a fight and she didn't want that. " Alright but I wanted to wait for the right time to say it. Bianca I used to live on takeout now I live on your leftovers. I hate all that mushfilled romantic stuff, but with you I love it. I especially don't like pda's only with you do I never care whose around when we kiss or hug or I hold your hand. "

" So what are you saying exactly?" Bianca asks with a strange look on her face.

" I'm saying that for the first time in my life..I'm in love..with you. It's not just that I love you. It's more than that I need to see you everyday. I think about you all the time when you aren't ar...''

Bianca cuts her off with a kiss.

" I feel the same way about you. I was a little afraid to say anything though. I pretend to be working at my desk but really I'm just thinking about you. I thought Kendall was gonna try and slap me back into reality the other day. When she caught me doing just that.'' Bianca confesses.

'' I'll never understand it.'' Mickie shakes her head in disbelief. Thinking outloud on accident.

"Understand what?" Bianca asks having heard the low utterance of Mickie's words.

" How come you can be in love with someone..like me Bianca. I'm not that great.''

The words run through Bianca jolting her memory. Back to when Frankie said almost the same words to her. " Oh, and I'm what exactly wonderful?''

" Yes you are. Mickie answers quickly. Me I'm, I'm just a no good street kid who got lucky and crawled up out of the gutter. You, You're sweet and kind and caring. And I don't even really like people that much.'' she admitts.

" Thats bull Mickie Pierce. You like me.'' Bianca responds.

" Thats different I love you.'' Mickie adds quickly.

" Yeah, and you like Josh and Babe and Miranda, Uncle Jack, Opal, I think even Maggie.'' Bianca lists.

" Okay, okay I get the message already. Mickie states abruptly. So do you want me to take you home yet?''

Bianca looks suprised at the sudden question. " I am home Mickie... with you. And I want to be with you if you're alright with that... All night this time.''

" You mean without your mom tracking you down.... All night huh?'' Mickie grins.

" Mhmm..Bianca says wrapping her arms around Mickies neck as they both stand. That is unless you want me to leave?''

" Not now I don't, Is this my second anniversary gift 'cuz I didn't get you..'' Bianca cuts her off with a sweet kiss.

Bianca smiles affectionately when they part. " Think of it as a together gift.''

" I am so in love with your mind right now. Just one thing will you ever let me finish a sentence?'' Mickie asks playfully Bianca shakes her head no they laugh. " Now come here and let me give you your gift.'' With that she pulls Bianca into another kiss deeper and more intense as the scene fades out.

************************

The morning after.

We close in on Bianca and Mickie aka Frankie Stone sleeping peacefully in each others arms. Mickie awakes first and looks down to see Bianca at her side. Pale skin glistening in the sunlight that beams through her bedroom window. She lays there in silence waiting for the woman to awake.

" Oh, Bianca I'm such a coward, you fell for a big chicken, twice. Why couldn't I just tell you who I am last night. Mickie says self deprecatingly in a whipser. I'm gonna tell you, I can't go on like this. I feel too guilty misleading you, You may hate me forever but thats a risk I gotta take.''

Just then Bianca's eyes flutter open and she looks up at 'Mickie'. Not knowing she really spent the night with Frankie. A loving smile on her face she says. " I love you.''

" Same here.''

" Mickie,'' Bianca laughs.

" What, I'm just not used to saying it all the time. I do.. love you too ya' know.''

" Yeah, I know. So do you feel better this morning?''

" Uhuh, See some beautiful brown eyed girl came along. Made me forget everything I was thinkin' on. But now I got a problem.'' Mickie says cutely.

" And what is your problem Oh, vexed one?'' Bianca asks in a playful tone smiling.

" I can't seem to remember who she was. Have you seen her anywhere?'' Mickie pretends to look around the room.

Bianca laughs and playfully hits Mickie in the arm with a pillow. " Perhaps this will jog your memory.'' She places a kiss to her lovers lips.

When they part. " Did that help your memory?''

" Ya' know I think it did,one question though?''

" Yes.''

Mickie grins. " Who are you again?''

'' Oh, funny.'' Bianca hits her with a pillow. "You're a nut Mickie Pierce.''

" Yeah, but I'm your nut B.''

" Lucky me.'' Bianca replies sarcastically.

*********************

While the couple is having fun playing around. Maggie is in the middle of what appears to be an intense internet search. At the hospital reception desk.

" Dammit! She swears. Nothing for Michelle Pierce either.'' Before she can do anything else She is taken out of her thoughts. By none other than Erica Kane.

" Mickie what are you doing here? I thought you were working at the Police Department now. Erica says to the figure whose back is turned to her. I knew it you are up to something, they caught you buying drugs didn't they? You are just like that..that Frankie person.''

Maggie turns to face Erica slightly agitated. " Erica you've lost whats left of your mind. And how many times have I told you to stop dissing my sister.''

" Maggie!'' Erica ghasps.

Long Pause.

" As my dear dpearted sister would say. Got it in one. Maggie smarts. And Mickie is buying drugs to catch a dealer she told me all about it. I see you're still copping an attitude with Bianca's girlfriends. Nothing changes in this place.''

" When did you get back and why are you here?''

" Let's see last monday and the university I was attending had me transfer either here or to New York, I picked here. Although I think I had a lapse in judgement seeing you an' all. Maggie retorts. What brings you to our fine establishment today? ''

" I have an AA meeting. Erica says in a matter of fact tone looking at her watch. Which I am going to be late for if I don't hurry. Sorry about the mis-understanding. Bye.'' The older woman waves as she rushes off to her meeting.

" Bye, Maggie calls out then in a quieter voice to herself. Good luck getting that stick removed. Erica theres some reason you've associated Mickie with Frankie. I've been around you too long not to you're hiding something question is what?'' She says to herself as she types some more.

********************

Mickie's Apartment.

Frankie(Mickie) is now fully dressed in bleached jeans and a black tank top. Leaned over the kitchen counter with a cup of coffee in her hand. Thinking to herself almost intensly. When she is accosted from behind by Bianca putting her arms around her and placing her chin upon the shorter womans shoulder lovingly.

" Hey. Whatcha thinkin' about?''

" Stuff, Mickie shruggs. Ava... I guess we should go check on her. Make sure she didn't kill any of the nursing staff or Maggie. ''

" You and Maggie get along well, Bianca comments. I never imagined my ex being friends with my current.''

" I've seen stranger things happen. Trust me.'' Mickie says in a matter of fact tone.

" Okay, isn't there a guard asigned to watch Ava? Bianca asks then before Mickie can answer an idea flashes in her mind. Oh, my gosh I can't believe I didn't see it before.''

Mickie sets her coffee mug down and turns to face the chocolate eyed woman.

" See what exactly?''

Bianca moves her arms from Mickie's waist to her shoulders and looks affectionately in her eyes. " That you care.''

" Bianca don't be ridiculous, Mickie objects. Why would I care about a good for nothing street kid? Who doesn't want anybody's help.''

" Gee, I don't know it might be because you see yourself in her. And you want to help her so she doesn't have life as hard as you did.''

Mickie tilts her head and rolls her eyes. " Don't do that don't try to deny it Mickie.'' Bianca smiles.'Ican see it on your face you do care. Mickie this is major progress.'' She says excitedly.

" Alright so what if I do. Bianca shes different okay, She wants a free ride from anyone who'll give it to her. I didn't want to be on the street I h..Mickie halts not wanting to confess possibly a darker secret than the fact she's Frankie. She's just in it for money from whoever she can take it from. People like that don't change.''

" You did even if you are different in your were both on the streets because you had nowhere else to go.''

" Thats still diferent Bianca. I changed because I wanted to. I didn't want to end up like the rest of my family and it got pretty deep before I got out too. I wanted to be something.''

" Don't you think Ava does too.'' Bianca says simply.

" I'm not sure and even if she did how can I help her?'' Mickie enquires.

" I think you already know the answer to that question. Without me telling you.'' Bianca points out looking into the woman light brown eyes.

Mickie nods. " I guess so.''

" Well then shall we go and see her?''

" Yep,'' Mickie responds grabbing her denim jacket and her keys. The couple walks out the door into the morning air.

" Oooh, It's a little cool out isn't it?'' Bianca shivers from a blast of cool wind. In only Mickie's t-shirt and a pair of nice looking dark jeans.

" Here.'' Mickie says removing her jacket and putting it on Bianca. " Better now?''

" Yeah, but now you'll be cold.''

" No I won't. I'll just keep my arms around ya' like this.'' With that Mickie wraps her arms affectionately around her loves midsection. Kissing her neck softly.

" Thats very clever.'' Bianca grins.

" I know, I'm a freakin' genius.'' Mickie declares as they walk along.

They both laugh.

*********************

Setting: Pine Valley hospital.

Mickie and Bianca come into Ava's room. Mickie has an armful of flowers in a large vause. Ava perks up oddly at the flowers. " Don't say anything. Mickie states setting the large bouquet down on a stand table. I just want you to know these were Bianca's idea.''

" Thats funny isn't it? Your girlfriend cared enough to send little 'ol worthless me the very best.'' Ava grins.

" Shut it..don't make what I have to say any harder than it already is.'' Mickie says to the young woman in the hospital bed. " Because when they release you, I've decided to take you in again.''

" Well lucky me, Just when I thought I'd hit bottom I find out it gets worse.'' Ava retorts.

Before Mickie can react Bianca does it for her. " Quit being such a brat orders suddenly And you Too aren't ever going to get along if you just keep trying to get a rise out of each other.''

Ava and Mickie are both taken aback with shock. By Bianca's sudden inervention. " Now I'm going to leave you two. Work it out or give it up already.'' With that the tall dark haired woman gingerely walks out of the room.

**********************

Ava whistles. "Wow.''

" Yeah, thats my Biancala.'' Mickie(Frankie) replies scratching her head out of wonder.

Ava frowns. "Your who?''

" Nothing just a nickname I have for her when she suprises me. Mickie tells The young blonde woman. Now listen you're getting released in a couple days. And when you get home you're taking your meds or I'll mush'em up in apple sauce like they do for toddlers.''

" Alright, Alright geez I get it take my meds or lose a hand. And I'd better behave or get handcuffed to you again. Anything else top cop?'' Ava enquires.

" Nope, not yet anyway. I'll send you a memo if I think of anything new. So..The words that come next are almost as hard for Ava to hear as they are for Mickie to say. How are you feeling?"

A little suprised at this enquery Ava reacts the only she knows how. " Do you even care? All I am to you is a con to babysit.''

" What if I do? God you're just like I used to be,Mickie shakes her head. I never realized what a pain in the a..''

Ava interupts her words. " Better, okay better. But my hand is kinda sore where they drained it. And it started itching earlier Dr. Stone said. It was my hand telling me to smash through glass and not take my meds again. Mickie laughs. It sounded like something you'd tell me. You two are an awful lot alike not to be related.'' She tells Mickie suspiciously.

Mickie disreguards the last comment. " It's the wound healing don't be suprised if you feel receeding pains either. As the excess swelling goes down. You'll probably..nevermind.'' She mischieviously brushes off.

" Probably what?'' Ava asks nervously.

" You'll probably *want* to smash it through glass again before it's over with. The itching is new skin covering the wounds.''

"Thanks alot, '' Ava groans.

Maggie walks in before they can continue. " Hey how's my worst patient doing today? Then turning her head. Oh, hey Mickie I didn't see you there. How are you?''

" I'm fine and yourself Dr. Stone?''

" Oh, I'm just dandy I had a twelve hour rotation last night then this morning some student called in sick and they called me in to fill his place.'' Maggie replies tiredly.

Mickie holds up a hand and with a knowing smirk." Let me guess Roger.''

" Yeah, I can't stand that guy.''

" I know he's such a dork. And he faint's at the sight of 't let him do anything that involves it. I think he picked the wrong profession.'' Mickie points out.

Maggie laughs. " Okay I'll remember that. Now how are you doing?'' She asks turning her attention to Ava.

" Fine already,Ava replies drolly. Mickie said the itching was the healing process. Does that mean that my hand is gonna be okay?''

" Thank you Dr/Officer/big mouth. Maggie tells Mickie(Frankie). You stole my thunder first Roger now you. Yes Ava thats exactly what it means. There is no permanent tissue damage your hand should heal fine. *If* you take your *meds* this time.''

" I will scouts honor.''

" Thats a crock you're about as much a scout as I am.'' Mickie responds.

"Knock,knock.'' Bianca says walking into the room. "Did we problem solve?''

" Yes.'' Ava says simply.

" Yes dear.'' Mickie says also in a simple tone.

" Well good. Bianca nods then sees Maggie. Hey Maggie.''

" Hey Bianca. Maggie replies then an idea comes to her. Can I talk to you for minute outside in the hall?''

Bianca looks at the woman in the white lab coat strangely for a moment. Then hesitantly agrees.'' Sure Maggie, I'll be right back no fighting you two.''

" Yes ma'am.'' they both say.

****************

Once out in the turns to the woman. " What did you want Maggie?''

" I don't exactly know how to ask this..okay here it goes. Maggie pauses. I was wanting to know if..has Mickie ever done anything or said anything that..oh, man this sounds crazy..''

" You want to know if she has ever acted or said anything to make me think she was Frankie?'' Bianca asks finding the words for Maggie.

" Yes.'' Maggie winces.

" I don't know if I should say. Bianca frowns unsure. Why do you want to know?''

" Because I don't why and I really don't know how, but that woman in there could be my sister.. Maggie says pointedly. I mean I don't have any idea what shes said or done around you. But around me she acts totally like Frankie...''

Maggies words are interrupted by Bianca.

" Biancala.'' she says nevously.

" Who?'' Maggie knits her brows together.

" We we're on a lunch date and she was paiged back to the hospital. As she ran off she said 'see you later Biancala.''

" So.'' Maggie replies still not understanding.

'' Maggie there was only one person on this earth who ever called me that name. And that was your sister it was her pe....''

" Okay spare me the details I don't wanna know that much. Maggie states running a hand through her hair. Man, this is too wierd.'' She says in a low voice.

" Why did she do anything around you..''

" Yeah, She was here when Ava first came in and Ava pick pocketed her. As she went to leave she leaned in and whispered something to me. She said 'if her hands and eyes move in the same direction she's lifing something off of you.' Frankie taught me that years ago.'' Maggie explains.

" Oh, my god Maggie she wears Amber too!'' Bianca exclaims.

" Okay now this is officially past coincidence.'' Maggie shakes her head confused.

" It can't be her she's dead Maggie.'' Bianca tries to deny the signs. Besides she would have told me.''

" Oh, right because my sister was always so upfront with you before.'' Maggie scoffs.

" Watch it Maggie, Frankie may not have always been honest with me about everything in her life. But she did tell me if I trusted her she'd let me down. Atleast she warned me what was your excuse?'' Bianca asked. Not wanting to go there but Maggie was making it hard not to.

" Alright, you made your point. I just mean that maybe if and it's a big *if* she is Frankie. She thinks telling you might send right over the falls psychologically speaking of course.'' Maggie attempts a new aproach.

" I see your point. Bianca shyly I'm not going into it any further than this discussion.''

" Fine you don't have to..I..'' Before Maggie can elaborate Mickie interupts.

" Hey, whats up ?''

" I was just asking Bianca what school you went to? You seem very familiar.'' Maggie covers anxiously.

" Right and I told her I didn't know and to ask you.'' Bianca says going along with the cover up for her relationships sake.

Mickie senses theres more going on than her vocational choice. But replies. '' Did it ever occur to you to ask me that in the first place? She says defensively. I went to New York State.''

" No I meant high school.''

" Oh, that I dropped out got my GED don't remember the name of the place. I think it started with a b or maybe it was an f. I don't know I hated high school. Mickie covers quickly. So Bianca are you all ready to go?''

" Well if you remember I'd love to know. '' Maggie responds nicely.

" I'll do that. Mickie grumbles. So Bianca are you all finished here?''

" Yeah.''

" Wanna grab lunch?''

'' Sure, See you later Maggie.''

" Yeah, see ya'.''

As soon as the couple is out of sight Maggie bolts off to the lab.

*******************

Chapter 9c.

Last time on Future AMC.

Mickie and Bianca spent an eventful six month anniversary together. As Ava had to be escorted to the hospital. Maggie discovered that there was no name trace for a Michelle Pierce. After talking with Erica she was almost certain that there was more to the woman who looked frighteningly like her sister. Then talking with Bianca confirmed her suspicions as she raced off to the lab.

Two days later it's like soap opera time you watch one episode then all of a sudden it's two days later.

Setting: Frankie's apartment evening.

Mickie is shoving Ava through the door and plops her down on the sofa. " Okay, Dr. Stone released you and cleared you for everything so that means you're going to work. I don't suppport freeloaders and it'll look better come your court date. If you can show the judge you've been becoming a useful citizen you're more likely to get probation. But first you're workin' for me.''

" What you mean like slave labor. I won't do that I'm not your maid.''

Mickie doesn't respond to this but simply walks to the kitchen and gets a mop and bucket. And places them in Ava's hands. " I want you to mop then dust and clean the bathroom. Then I'll see how I feel I might let you come shopping with me.''

" You had to use the mall in this didn't you? Ava says regretably accepting the tasks. Fine I'll do it but I don't have to like it.''

" Nope you don't thats called work. Nobody likes it everybody has to do it. Now carry on.'' Mickie smirks taking Ava's seat on the sofa and picking up a magazine.

****************************

Meanwhile at the park Babe and Bianca are talking.

" So..the anniversary how'd it go?'' Babe asks smiling curiously.

" It went okay, fine it went great.'' Bianca says happily.

" Well spill already. I want details.'' Babe pryes.

" Mickie blindfolded me and took me to the beach. Where she had set up a table made out of a bolder. Candles lit everywhere and she scattered wildflowers all over the sand. ''

" Oh, my gosh thats sounds so romantic Bianca.''

" It was but I'm not finished see then she revealed dinner..and it was smoked salmon.'' Bianca chuckles.

" Now that sounds like your girl always makin' with the humor.'' Babe laughs.

" I know. Bianca agrees. Then she got a phone call from Ava and we had to take her to the hospital. She hadn't been taking her medicine and she got an infection. ''

" Well it sounded romantic up until that point. I'm sorry your anniversary got crashed.''

" It's okay because after we finished up at the hospital. Bianca then smiles. We went back to her place and..she told me all this stuff about how she was before we were together. How I made her a better person and she said she didn't just love me. That she is in love with me.'' She tells Babe.

" Wow, thats beautiful but the question is do you feel the same about Mickie?'' Babe asks getting serious.

" Oh, yes without question.'' Bianca acknowledges not even having to think about it.

" I knew it, You totally pretend to be working when really you're daydreaming about her. And you talk about her constantly..''

" I know. I feel like I'm back in highschool or something. '' Bianca confesses happily.

" I have some news to tell you but you can't say anything to..well Mickie can know too. She can keep a secret pretty well. Josh and I are engaged.'' Babe tells her best friend.

" Oh, my gosh Babe thats awesome news. come here I've gotta hug my sister in law.'' Bianca and Babe hug joyfully.

" We were going to tell everyone on Thanksgiving but Josh got called to work. And Mickie got sick, then you were kidnapped. There never seemed to be a good time.''

" I know thank God things are finally starting to wind down.''

" I want you to be my maid of honor. And I want Mickie in the wedding party too.'' Babe requests.

" You're gonna put her in a dress aren't you?''

" Yep, possibly a floral one.'' Babe cackles.

" I'd be honored Babe and I'm sure Mickie will be too. Once we get past the whole dress thing.'' They laugh.

*********************

Back at Mickie's place she pops her head out of the magazine and calls out. " How's it going in there?''

" Fine your royal heinous almost finished.'' Ava yells back with sarcasm.

" Don't get cute.''

" Too late I am cute and I'm also finished. So can we go to the mall?'' Ava pleads.

" I suppose get yourself cleaned up first. ''

" What do you mean I am clean.''

" Uh, come with me. Mickie showes her, her face in the bathroom mirror. " I do beg to differ you look like you cleaned a fireplace.''

" Ewww..I look so..so working class poor. Thats not how movie stars look.''

" What?''

" I wanna be celebrity like an actress. I shouldn't be subjected to this..this ugh, torture.'' Ava complains.

" Don't you know most of them started out working at a McDonalds or something. They weren't always rich.'' Mickie replies.

" Really, Ava squints in disbelief then thinks for a moment, Well I'm gonna be different.''

" Sure right just hurry up and maybe I'll buy you pizza too. That is if you aren't counting carbs for your next big role.'' Mickie smarts standing in the doorway.

" No, I'm one of those celebrities that doesn't gain weight. I'll be ready in ten.'' Ava informs the dark blonde woman who for an unknown reason is being nice to her.

*****************************

Setting: Pine Valley hospital.

Maggie is going over test results in almost an unrecognizeable state of shock. " I don't get it. How can that be?'' She says to herself.

" Mick what are you doin' here? I'm gone to that medical conference for one week. And you missed the hospital so much you came back.'' Josh says in joking manner.

" Oh, good lord not you too. Maggie shakes her head in disbelief. Between the test results shes got and people confusing her for Mickie. It was too much. I'm not Mickie.''

" Right you're name will soon be broke at the poker game tomorrow. I think I figured out how you count cards.'' Josh says teasingly not realizing he is really talking to Maggie.

" Josh it's me Maggie Stone.''

" Okay, thats weird I could've sworn you were..''

'' Mickie.'' Maggie says tiredly.

" Yeah, but I guess I was mistaken. I guess what they say is true satan does take on many forms.'' Josh smarts.

'' Well hey I guess I was mistaken too. Erica I didn't recognize you in there. Maggie looks into Joshs eyes as though those kinds of surgeries are becoming increasingly popular these days huh?'' She smart mouthes she knew this was not a good reaction. In fact she couldn't believe what she'd just said but she was in another place mentally. At this point her mind was far from rational.

" Whoa, I thought you were supposed to be nice and non-confrontational. Why are you here anyway? Is it to win my sister back 'cause shes happy with Mickie.''

" Everybodies happy with Mickie it's sickening. Maggie grunts frustratedly. I'm back here because the university made me transfer for an overseas internship. ''

" Oh, I see. But don't try and break Bianca and Mickie up while your doing your 'internship assignment' okay Maggie.''

" Gotcha loud and clear captain, now if you'll excuse me. I have actual work to do thats less with the talking and more with the hands on aproach.'' With those words Maggie walks off.

" God, they could almost be sisters. That is weird.'' Josh says to himself shaking his head.

****************************

Meanwhile at the town mall Ava and Mickie are standing in front of a mirror inside a retail store.

" Alright I told you a thousand times *no* Ava.'' Mickie objects.

" Oh, come on what are you so afraid of? Every woman has one I think you'd look nice in it.'' Ava presses.

" No, I'm not wearing that baberic thing. Now get your stuff lets pay for it and go.'' Mickie orders.

" It's just a dress whats so barberic about looking nice. Ava stated with matter of fact sureness, I bet Bianca would love to see what you look like in it. It's even your color.''

" Yes as a matter of fact I would.'' An amused voice answers. The women turn and see Bianca.

" You're both nutty. There is no way I am putting that thing on.'' Mickie stated shrugging her shoulders uncomfortably.

" I bet theres a way we can sway your opinion. Right Ava?'' Bianca asks rubbing her palms together as if plotting something.

" I think so too Bianca .Ava walks over next to the tall dark haired woman. So what angle are we workin' here?''

" Just follow my lead. Bianca whipers back. You know Mickie you're really whimping out. You're almost whining like some little girl.''

" Yeah, you know what Bianca's right. You're just a big fraidy cat huh? I don't believe this is the same woman who handcuffed me to a pole while she had lunch.'' Ava retorts.

" Or the very same woman who fought off a deadly virus and a week later chased down a kidnapper and took a bullet to the chest. Now she's standing here com...''

" Give me the stupid thing already. I may be many things but a whimp ain't one of'em not when it comes to dumb stuff like this anyway.'' Mickie takes the dress and heads to a fitting room.

Bianca and Ava laugh.

" That was fun, How'd you know that would work anyway?'' Ava enquires with some curiousity.

" It worked on someone else once upon a time. When I had to get her into a dress for a wedding.'' Bianca replies vaguely.

" Okay I'm ready.'' Mickie calls out from the fitting room.

" Well show yourself.'' Bianca urges excitedly waiting to see what her love looks like in more feminine attire.

" Alright but there'd better be no laughing.'' Mickie says drolly as she prepares to exit the dressing room.

Bianca and Ava snicker.

" Is that laughter I hear?''

" No come on out we won't laugh we promise.'' Bianca answers amused.

Mickie hesitantly walks out of the dressing room and over to Bianca and Ava who both look at each other then Mickie. Ava whistles. " Look at you, you're a hotty.''

" I agree you are a hotty. Bianca smiles. You look beautiful what were you worried about?''

Mickie pulls on the dark blue dress uncomfortably. " I feel like a giant tie.''

Bianca walks over in front of her and puts her arms around Mickie's shoulders. " You certainly don't look like any giant ties I've ever seen. I think you're gorgeous.'' She says then gives her love a small peck on the lips.'' Now you may go change.''

" Really, thank you all it's been lovely. But I officially retire from modeling now.'' Mickie(Frankie) says as she moves back to the dressing room.

" So where are we going for dinner? I believe pizza was mentioned earlier?'' Ava hints.

" That was before you teamed up with my girlfriend and had me play dress up. You can starve for all I care.'' Mickie calls out.

" Come on Ava lets go I'll feed you. We'll leave the grunpy dwarf to herself.'' Bianca snickers.

Mickie comes out of the fitting room once again only to find shes been ditched on. She spots them at the check out counter. " Hey wait up, You think you can just leave me like that huh?''

" I'm starving Bianca here is taking me to dinner right?''

" Right.'' Bianca nods. " If you wanna come with us you can play catch up.'' She says playfully.

" Oh, fun and when I do catch you? Then what?''

" Then you can pay for dinner.''

" I think I'm losing out here somehow.'' Mickie groans.

Ava and Bianca laugh. " How could you lose out with the wonderful company you're keeping?''

" Right like that's...thats wonderful. lets go.''

*********************************

Setting: next day late afternoon.

Location: Movie theatre.

" Okay I got every kind of candy they had for Miranda, popcorn, two soda's and your water.''

"Mickie what are trying to do put her in a diabetic coma. Theres enough sugar here to send her climbing the walls for a month.'' Bianca responds but cannot help but be amused.

" Ahuh, thats the whole point of going to the movies when you're a kid. Eat loads of junk you shouldn't and go home hyper. Miranda junior mints or reeses pieces. Mickie asks holding up two packages for the child to point to. Weigh this carefully it could be the most important decision of your young life.''

" Reeses.'' Miranda answers pointing to the package of candy.

" Good choice.'' Mickie hands the child the bag of candy.

They all sit back as the movie starts. " Mickie this popcorn is huge. A small would've been sufficient for you and I don't you think?'' Bianca states.

" Uh, B that is a small they're large comes in a leaning tower of something. Mickie replies. Now shh. I wanna know if the dog can really play soccer or if it's just a lie.''

" He can too play soccer.'' Miranda protests.

Mickie looks over at the child. " Oh, yeah wanna bet, I bet you he can't. If I'm right I get a handful of your candy. If you're right you get a handful of popcorn deal.''

" Deal.'' Miranda nods.

"Bianca you're our witness.''

" Lucky me I should've gotten the discount for two children instead of one.'' Bianca says rolling her eyes.

********************

Awhile later the trio are exiting the theatre Mickie lowers her head and stuffs her hands in her pockets. As she walks alongside Bianca.

" Man, I can't believe I lost a bet to an eight year old.''

" And I can't believe you did it three times after that babe.'' Bianca teases affectionately.

" Hush you. Don't rub it in.'' Mickie teases back.

" Theres Olivia I'll be right back. Bianca says to Mickie patting her shoulder. Heres Miranda's bag and I should be home around nine. No candy or soda's she's already on a sugar high.''

" I take that a nice time was had by all then?'' Olivia enquires with a raised brow.

" Oh, yes quite. Mommy will see you later Miranda.''

" Okay, bye mommy, bye Mickie.'' Miranda waves.

" Bye kiddo.''

With that they were once more alone. " I'm gonna strangle you Mickie Pierce you taught my kid to gamble.'' Bianca states playfully motioning her hands around Mickie's neck.

" Hey take it easy I mean look on the bright side. She's good at it maybe..'' Mickie trails on purpose.

Bianca raises an eyebrow curiously." Maybe what?''

" I was just thinking Josh and I could teach her poker and take her to Vegas on her eighteenth birthday.'' Mickie gets out quickly before getting a look from Bianca and running off. As Bianca gives chase.

" You take that back Mickie Pierce, Or you'll be sorry.'' Bianca plays catching up to Mickie easily.

" Oh, and however wilst thou punnish me?'' Mickie asks dramatically.

" Hmm..good question how about I start with this.'' Bianca leans in and kisses The dark blonde.

" I believe you are confused thats not torture.'' Mickie says smugly when they part.

" No thats not but if I kissed you like that then ran away that would be torture.'' With that Bianca gives a playful smirk and jaunts off.

" Oh, you're are so gonna get it. When I catch up to you, You're mine.'' Mickie calls out running off to get Bianca.

" Ahah gotcha.'' She says sneaking up on Bianca from behind.

" Please don't hurt me officer I swear I'll behave.'' Bianca teases giggling as Mickie kisses her neck.

"You giggle like such a girl. So you wanna sit down here?'' Mickie asks pointing to a park bench.

" Sure. Where's Ava anyway?'' Bianca enquires as they sit down.

" She's at work. I got her a job.''

" Doing what? Mickie it's nothing bad is it?''

" No she's working at the Glam sweeping and mopping, Whatever else Opal needs her to do.'' Mickie answers. (My god those words sound very familiar. I think I've heard someone say them to..oh, right me.) She thinks to herself.

" I see well then we really are all to ourselves huh?'' Bianca says in a flirty tone.

" Uhuh.'' Mickie nods grinning.

*******************

While in another town a man face ascue from sight. Appears to be hitchinking. He looks at a paper while holding a thumb with his other hand. We close in on the picture it's of Greenlee. He quickly puts the paper away when a car finaly stops to let him in.

" I'm headed for Pine Valley.'' He says gazing into the car window.

" Hop on in I can take you as far as Landview.''

" Awesome.'' With that he puts a napsack and a backpack into the cars and gets in.

***********************

We join Maggie in the hospital lab.

" Look I think something went wrong with these tests. Somebody must've got them mixed up or there was a false positive. Anyway I need you to run them again please I have to be sure.'' Maggie pleads with the lab tech.

" Hey, no problem. Besides I like running tests for you it gives something to look forward to. In this dismal place although I can assure they are accurate." The female lab tech replies.

" Huh, well theres always a margine of error with these tests. But maybe I just enjoy making you work harder.'' Maggie says clearly flirting with the woman.

" You slave driver you. I'll run these through right now. You can watch if you like.''

" Sure. I'm always in the mood for a good show of blood cells and dna strands.'' Maggie quips sarcastically as she follows the light blonde into the testing room.

" Okay so I put this sample and your sample in here and shake'em up. Then I put them into this machine here and we wait about twenty minutes.'' She explains to Maggie.

" Whats your name? I hate talking to people constantly and not knowing they're names.''

" Oh, it's Kelly. See it says that right across my name tag.'' The woman points out.

" Right, Maggie shakes her head. I can't believe I didn't notice that before. I feel terrible.''

" It's okay I'll forgive you if..''

" If what?''

" If when we're done here you buy me dinner I like chinese.''

" It's a date. Maggie nods. I don't mean it's a date, date like you and me...I mean..'' She rambles nervously.

" I'd love it if we called it a date Dr. Stone.'' The woman replies.

" Only if you don't call me Dr. Stone.'' Maggie smiles and there is a long silence. Just as it looks like they're about to kiss. A machine beeps and prints something out.

" Deal. Oh, here are the test results.'' Kelly says handing Maggie the paper print out.

" I don't believe it they're positive.'' Maggie ghasps running a hand through her hair.

" May I ask what the deal is? You seem really stressed.''

" Uhmm..I'd tell you if I knew exactly. Do you know a Dr. Pierce?''

" Yeah, shes funny she used to come in here and ask me what drinks I was mixing in the lab. I asked her out once but she said she was taken. Why?'' Kelly enquires.

" She's the other test sample. She is my sister but I don't know how?'' Maggie tells the light blonde woman.

" Why don't you know? Didn't you grow up together?''

" Yeah, we did... but my sister's been... dead for eight years.''

" Oh, my God that is.. so..it's a stumper. I'll give you that one. Hey maybe you've got another sister you didn't know about.'' Kelly states trying to help Maggie figure the situation out.

" Yeah, maybe it's possible I guess. So are you ready to go?''

" Ready if you are?''

" Then shall we?'' Maggie holds her arm out and Kelly takes it as they leave.

*************************

Back at the park Bianca and Mickie are kissing when Bianca suddenly breaks away.

" Hey what'd you do that for get back here.'' Mickie protests.

" I can't I have to go back to the office. I left my purse there.''

" Bianca you've got like twenty purses. Mickie whines from the broken contact and once again leans in to resume they're kiss. When she sees a look on Bianca's face. You're not gonna let this go are you?'' She groans.

" Nope, Bianca replies then taking the woman she loves by the arm and standing up. Catch me if you can.'' She dares running off playfully.

Mickie bolts off in her direction. " Bianca how far do you think you can get you're wearing clogs for Pete's sake.'' She calls out. She catches her by a large oak tree and pins her to it. " I win so what's my prize did I get the Ferrari?''

" No Ferrari the prize is, drum roll please?''

Mickie pats her hands on the base of the tree.

" We'll go back to your place and then you can buy me dinner.'' Bianca laughs Then Mickie leans in and kisses her lightly. They part and Bianca moves away from the tree and Mickie grinning mischieviously. "Right after we get my purse. Motioning her finger she says. " Come on slow poke.''

" You're gonna pay for that Bink.'' With that Bianca dashes off and Mickie runs after her.

*****************

Chapter 10a.

The confession.

The song is bye an oldies band called Poco it's called ''keep on tryin''. No infringement intended I own nothing.

Some long moments later they come up in the elevator at Fusion drenched from head to toe. " Man, that rain came outta nowhere.'' Mickie states shaking her hair out.

Bianca laughs.

" What?''

" You reminded me of a wet dog when you did that just now. That's all.'' She says laughing some more.

" Oh, you think thats funny do ya'? Well atleast my eyeshadow isn't running.'' Mickie smarts and grabs a tissue off a desk sitting down on the desk. "Come here you look like a geisha gone bad.'' The women are both laughing at this point as Mickie whipes the makeup off of Bianca's round face.

In that moment looking into Bianca's dark eyes she realizes she has to tell her the truth right now. " Bianca I have something to tell you. Actaully I've wanted to tell you for awhile now and I don't think. I can't live with myself if I don't say what I have to say.''

Ohhh..ohhh...I've been thinkin' bout all the times you told me.

you're so full of doubt

you just can't let it be

" Okay, Bianca is a little suprised in her lovers sudden mood change from playful to extremely serious. What is it that you're just dying to tell me Mickie?''

But I know

if you keep on comin' back for more

" I'm afraid that when I tell you it'll be over between us and I don't want that.'' Mickie confesses sadly.

And I'll keep on tryin'

" You can tell me anything Mickie you know that. I doubt whatever it is you have to say could end our relationship. I feel like I've known you forever like we've been a couple before in another life. Does that sound weird or out there to you?'' Bianca asks.

I'll keep on tryin'

" No Bianca it makes perfect sense. Because we have been together before in my other life.'' Mickie replies cryptically.

" What are you talking about?'' Bianca frowns.

And I've been drinkin' now

just a little too much.

" The first night we went to dinner afterwards I kissed you. And you said it felt like you'd done that with me before.''

And I don't know how

I can get in touch with you

" Yes I remember.'' Bianca acknowledges knitting her brows together.

" And then that time you hugged me and you asked me if I was wearing Amber. I made that lame excuse that I didn't know what it was.'' Mickie continues as though leading up to something.

Now theres only one thing

for me to do.

" Mickie what are you trying to say?'' Bianca asks more weirded out by the second.

Thats to keep on tryin'

To get home to you.

" Then I went all postal on you for having me background checked. Bianca nods. It wasn't because I cared you checked me out. It was because I didn't want someone else telling you what I wanted to tell you myself.''

And I.

Feel so satisfied.

" Okay now I'm really confused. What are trying to tell me exactly?'' Bianca asks both curious and afraid of the answer at the same time

When I can see you smile.

" And you told me that Maggie and I could pass for sisters.'' Mickie continues trying her best to soften the shock thats coming next. " I'm saying that my name my real name isn't Mickie Pierce. Bianca. I'm Frankie I didn't die eight years ago I went to the police and they got me into witness protection. I had to stage my death so I'd be safe to testify against Vanessa's drug cartel.''

I want to confide in all thats true.

Bianca stands stone faced with shock. Her mind trying desperately to process this information.

So I keep on tryin'

" Bianca please say something? Say you understand, say you hate me. Just please say something?'' Frankie pleads.

I'm through with lyin'

Just like the sun above

I'll keep shinin' through.

" You liar, Bianca denies the obvious facts. You're not Frankie she is dead and..she can never come back. I can never be with her again. It's like you're insulting her death and mocking my feelings for her. Please stop Mickie this is a really tasteless joke.'' She says with hurt in her voice and on her face.

oh Yes I'll

Keep on tryin'

" Look at me I'm not kidding Bianca, Think about it when I got sick and started halucinating who did I say I was? Why else would I act like that if I never knew her unless I was her.'' Frankie explains calmly holding onto Bianca's shoulders and looking deep into her eyes.

I'm tired of cryin'

For a moment Bianca's looks turn from shock to realization. Then she breaks away and moves toward the elevator doors. She enters the elevator. " You are insane stay away from me and my family or I'll get a restraining order.'' She states coldly.

I got to find a way

Frankie rushes the elevator and enters it just before the doors meet. Bianca turns her back to the woman and stares at the floor. Frankie grabs her and spins her around unapologetically taking hold of her right hand looking it over.

To get on home to you.

" What are you doing? I told you stay away from me and that's what I meant.'' Bianca orders trying to keep her composure as unshed tears well in her eyes.

" I just wanted to see if that cuticle ever grew back. Look it did, The blonde points out, guess I didn't cause any permanent damage huh?'' Frankie tries to joke. But the situation is far too intense to be laughed at.

I've been thinkin' 'bout.

" How can you know that the only person who was...'' Bianca's mind trails as much as she wanted to believe it could be true. Her long dead love back in her life. Her rational mind courtesy of her father told her this was an act.

All the times you helped me.

" That person was me Bianca.''

Bianca stands firm in her opinion fighting her emotions with everything in her. " Get away I can't stand looking at you after you've pulled this...god my mother was right again it was all a con wasn't it? When will I ever fall for a normal person do I have sucker written on my forehead. 'Hello I'm my name is Bianca Montgomery daughter of Erica Kane con me please' I deserve it!'' Bianca says in a loud angry tone moving her hand across her forehead like a pen.

I never heard you shout.

" I never thought that about you Bianca. You showed me what I was missing you gave me your heart remember. Frankie sees her plea's going nowhere she folds her arms and stands hips tilted. Okay I'll make you a deal I'll tell you whatever you want to know about me. Once in a lifetime opportunity knockin' here I know ya' can't resist.'' She dares.

The flow of energy.

" Fine tell me something that only Frankie and I would know besides that. And it had better be something I haven't told you about us..her.'' The brunnette warns.

Was so fine.

Frankie paces searching her mind for a moment of significance. Suddenly she halts to a stop and grins. '' Ahah, Remember the night we kissed for the first time and I'm not talking about that stupid sleepover kiss. I'm talkin' about the night that we were sitting together in Opal's living room while she was out. We were watching that movie you know about that rocker chick and I was joking around playing air guitar I said I wanted to be a rockstar. And you looked at me and rolled your eyes. Our eyes met, we stopped laughing and we kissed. Then I tried to blame it on being caught up in the moment.''

Now I think.

I'll lay it on the line.

Bianca can't believe that was thing she chose to tell her she stands silently contemplating wether or not to believe her story,she knows its true but who would know that but Frankie.

" You didn't believe that lame excuse either. We ended up kissing the whole rest of the movie as I recall.'' Frankie chuckles. " Or how about when you asked me to hold your hand after Leo's 'not a wedding'. You didn't think I would but as soon as we left I took hold of your hand didn't I? She says raising an eyebrow and grinning. Then of course there was that time your mom went outta town for a couple days. And we took over your house. I thought the maid was gonna kill us when she saw that kitchen when you tried to teach me how to cook.''

Bianca fears uttering the words shes longed to ever since that fateful night eight years ago. " Frankie?''

And I'll keep on tryin'

" Thats my name don't wear it out Biancala.'' Frankie grins thinking she is making progress.

Bianca inches closer to the woman looking over her features as though searching for truth in the womans physical demeanor.

To get home to you.

" Take a picture it lasts longer ya' know.'' Frankie states in a smart but not mean tone. " Do I really look that bad?"

And I feel so satisfied.

When I can see you smile

Bianca starts to cry she is right in front of Frankie now she looks mad and upset at the same time. She begins to beat the womans chest and shoulders not hard enough to hurt her. " You can't be alive, you just can't be you're not her you..Frankie.'' With those words she stops pounding her hands and instead sobs uncontrolably. Frankie pulls Bianca into a fierce loving hug and she burries her head in Frankie's shoulder still sobbing but quieter now.

I want to confide in all that is true.

So I keep on tryin'

" Shh..shh it's okay, just let it out.'' Frankie soothes caressing the womans dark hair with her free hand. '' I promised you no more running I meant it. It just took me awhile to get my life in order for you and myself.''

" It's really you isn't it?''

" In the flesh..'' Frankie says sniffling from her own tears. " Now see what you made me do? I'm crying like some..some girl. Oh, man I hate doing this.''

I'm through with lyin'

Just like the sun above

I'll come shinin' through.

Oh, yes I will.

Bianca lets out a relieved and amused sigh. " Frankie, you are a girl.''

I'll keep on tryin'

I'm tired of cryin'

" I know that. It doesn't mean I wanna cry like one.''

I got to find a way to get on home to you.

long pause.

" Oh, my god you're a doctor and a cop.'' Bianca lets out.

*************************************

long pause.

" Oh, my god you're a doctor and a cop.'' Bianca lets out.

" I know weird huh? You know whats weirder though.'' Frankie says pulling back from their embrace to look into those dark eyes with a grin.

" What?''

" You're a mom, now that is just too much.'' Frankie answers laughing through tears herself now.

" I can't believe this is happening. You're alive Frankie.'' Bianca is still crying but happy tears.

" And I can't believe you didn't figure it out sooner. Frankie says pointedly. As they resume their hug.I was run over my first night here. You've clearly inherited your mothers hit and run attitude about meeting people, care to explain that one?''

" Ohh, haha. No I plead the fifth. Bianca says in reply with joy in her voice. How did you? how are you..?''

" Bullet proof vest played dead,look alike cadaver,FBI cover up and alot of talking. Your uncle Jack was the one who got me into the witness protection program he knew I was alive. And so did Opal because we had to use her place for the whole thing. They had to sign forms agreeing not to say anything so don't be mad at them.'' Frankie explains having known what Bianca was asking.

" Wow, all this time I visited your grave ya' know, I lit the candles at your memorial I..passed out when I saw Maggie for the first time. I thought she was you I should've known better though.''

" Why's that?'' Frankie asks curiously.

" 'Coz she was wearing a mini skirt. They both laugh it is a laugh of relief and release. Oh, by the way Josh and Babe set a date we're in the wedding party.''

" She's puttin' me in a dress isn't she?'' Frankie guesses placing her hands on her hips.

" Oh, yeah and you're gonna like it. Bianca says waving a finger at her long lost love. After everything you put me through this is the least you can do.''

" Does that mean you wanna ditch the restraining order and like me again.''

" I can't just like you Frankie I love you too much.'' Bianca answers honestly.

Frankie waited so long to hear those words from Bianca to her and not her alias. But there were more serious things going on aswell. " Well don't disolve on me again.''

"Why not?'' Bianca asks matter of factly afterall it wasn't everyday your long lost love comes back to you. Bianca felt entitled to a certain amount of emotional breakdown.

'' Because we stopped moving fifteen minutes ago we're stuck in this elevator.'' Frankie states matter of factly.

*********************

Meanwhile elsewhere in town. Unaware of the events unfolding Maggie and Kelly are finishing up their date.

" Well thank you for dinner.''

" Hey anytime crunchy cookies with messages written in them are involved. Count me in.'' Maggie states as she walks Kelly the lab tech up to the door of her apartment with an umbrella in one hand and Kelly's hand the other.

" I'd ask you in but all I have to offer you is instant coffee and two bottles of beer.'' Kelly tells her.

" What a coinceadence I happen to love coffee flavored beer.'' Maggie jokes.

Kelly laughs cutely. " You know you're just as funny as Dr. Pierce.''

" Yeah, not quite the response I was fishin' for. Since she might very well be my sister.'' Maggie replies.

" Oh, Right. What response were you fishing for exactly?'' Kelly asks in a flirty tone.

" This one.'' Maggie says in a low voice before leaning in to kiss the other woman.

" I like that response myself we have alot in common.'' Kelly says when they part.

" I think so too. Maggie grins. I guess I'll see you whenever I have more dna to be anylized.''

" So tomorrow then.'' Kelly replies it's more a statement than a question.

" You bet later Kelly.'' Maggie waves before going to her car and thinking for a moment.

" I gotta talk to Bianca. She hasn't been answering her calls though. I'll try Fusion.'' Maggie says driving off.

********************

" Opal I'm kinda worried shouldn't Mickie and Bianca have come to get me by now?'' Ava asks.

" Well I'm sure they're just dodgin' the thunderstorm. Like all the rest of us darlin'. They know you're safe with me you can sleep in the guest bedroom. I already had it made up for you. '' Opal states leading the young woman upstairs to Frankie's old room. Ya' know along time ago a young lady like yourself stayed in this very room. ''

" Thanks I'll log that away, What happened to her did the boogy man get her?'' Ava smarts.

" No, actually she got the best of the boogy man. Opal mumbles in quiet tone. But thats a story for another night.''

" It was Mickie wasn't it she got her boogyman didn't she?''

" Yes it was and she did. Opal nods, Goodnight Ava.''

" 'Night and Opal..the older woman turns her head. Thanks.''

" No problem any friend of Mickie and Bianca's is a friend of mine.''

*******************

" Do you see anything up there? Frankie be careful.'' A concerned Bianca calls out from inside the elevator.

" Yeah, I think we can climb out the doors are stuck open upstairs.'' Frankie calls back from on top of the elevator car.

" I don't know I'm not that physically strong.''

" Now who's trying to con who exactly?'' Frankie asks popping her head into the elevator car.

" I'm serious Frankie.'' Bianca protests.

" Me thinketh the lady doth protest too much. Frankie quips. Bianca you delivered a baby then gave birth to your own in sub-zero temperatures with no pain killers and no doctors around. If you can do that then you can do this.''

" Alright I don't know why I let you talk me into these things.'' Bianca hesitantly takes Frankies hand and climbs out on top of the elevator.

" Cuz, you can't resist my laughs nervously on you first my lady.'' Frankie motions with her hand and Bianca begins to climb. " Right behind ya'.''

Once safe back in the office. Bianca can't resist and grabs Frankie to hug her once more.

" Hey don't break me. I came back already besides theres something I've wanted to do since I got back. As myself not 'Mickie' .''

" What would that be?''

Frankies only answer is to kiss Bianca fiercely on the lips. "That, I have wanted to do that for eight years now.''

" Oh, Frankie see you are sweet.''

" Only for you Biancala.'' Frankie grins.

" I have a question for you and I need an honest answer.'' Bianca states.

" Shoot.''

" When I walked in on you and J.R. were you trying to prove something with him?''

Frankie takes a deep breath and parts her hair nervously. " I knew you were going to ask me that. No I wasn't trying to prove anything except you should stay away from me. I told you there could never be anybody else for me it was the truth. I know this doesn't make it any better but I had to get really high before I could do it. All I could do was think about how I was hurting you but...She begins to tear up once more. It was all I could do to keep you away...I thought if you hated me..then Vanessa couldn't get to you...I wanna take it back I do. I swear. '' She is now crying tears stream one after another. Uncontrolably down her reddened cheeks. '' I doped him up to do what we did with weed. I'm so sorry.''

Bianca wipes her tears. '' I forgive you Frankie but Promise me one thing?''

In a rare moment of weakness and complete honesty. " Anything.'' Frankie says.

" If theres ever another time when you're in trouble. And don't know how to get out of it come to me. Don't push me away we'll find a way out I promise.''

" I will.'' Frankie vows. " I don't wanna hurt you again I think it actually almost killed me the last time. I know what you're gonna say thats not funny. But it is true. You are the only person I've ever loved don't ever doubt that.''

Bianca is deeply moved by these words. " I never stopped loving you either Frankie. Yes I've had other love in my life but you were always in there. I always thought of you and wished you were alive. Now you're right here in front of me its like a miracle or something.''

" Or something is right.'' Another female voice states.

Bianca and Frankie both turn around to face a very iritated looking Maggie Stone. Arms folded with piece of paper in her right hand.

'' Maggie how did you know I was here?'' Bianca asks suspiciously.

'' You didnt answer your phone when I tried calling you. You only ever do that when you're at work so I took a guess. I should've known you would be here too.'' Maggie says in a less than casual tone eyeing 'Mickie'

" SO, what do you care where I go?'' Frankie asks defensively.

'' I don't but while we're all here perhaps you'd like to explain this. Maggie says also in a defensive tone. As she hands the paper to the woman whom she knows as Mickie.

" It says we're siblings so.'Unfortunately it's true. Maggie I knew you couldn't keep your nose out of my business. Sisters I swear.'' Frankie says in a cool tone looking at the test results.

" So care to elaborate. Because the only sibling I ever had to my knowledge. Has been in a cemetary for eight years.'' Maggie comes back.

" No, I was at New York state college becoming a doctor sis.'' Frankie replies smugly not having the energy left emotionaly or mentally to play head games.

" You can't be..alive.'' Maggie ghasps her jaw dropping and eyes becoming wide.

" I don't have the strength for another heart to heart tonight. Frankie grumbles. So l'll just prove it to you believe me don't believe me your call. Here it goes you've got a mole on the left side of your neck like this one. She raises her hair to reveal an identical mark. You had an imaginery friend in the first grade named Joan. I sucker punched Jimmy Curtis in the stomach because he called you retarded Margaret. For talking to her outloud in the lunchroom. Then Frankie raises a finger. I taught you how to shoplift. Tell me do you pay for lipstick now 'cause back then she didn't.'' The woman smiles smugly looking between her sister and Bianca.

Maggie's head is spinning she is in a state of total shock. " You..are..my..sister.'' She gets out before fainting.

Bianca is suprised by Maggie reaction it wasn't Maggie's nature to faint." Oh, my god is she okay Frankie?''

" Thats a matter of opinion. Frankie rolls her eyes then knealing down to her sister. She's fine Bianca. Funny I thought this was gonna be your reaction.''

" I guess I just fainted too many times over you. It must've lost the effect but I did feel light headed for a second.'' Bianca replies.

" Mags, hey Mags wake up. Frankie tries to revive her sister but no answer. Retarded Margaret up and at'em last call move it ,move it, move it.''

This brings Maggie strait up and back to consciousness. She sits up too quickly though. " Whoa, she blinks. Room spinning.'' Then she looks at Frankie on her knees next to her.

" You okay did you hit your head sis?'' Frankie asks concerned.

" No I got a hard head anyways. Maggie replies rubbing her head then squinting. Frankie is that really you?''

" Yeah, really me. Rumors of my death very greatly exaggerated.'' Frankie says simply.

" What'd you do to your hair?'' Maggie frowns pointing out the medium length dirty blonde hair with light blonde streaks in it.

" Hey..Don't start dissin' my hair. I saw you after you bleached yours never thought about it turning orange did ya' ? You were supposed to be the smart one too.'' Frankie says sarcastically. " Oh, no don't give me that look. You're not gonna. Maggie throws her arms around her sister in a hug. Hug me.'' Frankie groans.

" Yes I am sis. Now shut up about it.'' Maggie commands. " How? What did you..''

" I'll explain come on lets go sit down.'' Frankie replies helping her sister to her feet carefully.

Scene fades out.

****************************

Chapter 10b.

Next day early morning Fusion. Bianca, Frankie and Maggie talked all night long and appear to have crashed out where they were sitting. Bianca and Frankie asleep on the lounge sofa heads next to one anothers. Maggie in a kitchen chair with her head on the table matching it.

" What should we do? And what went on here last night?'' A female voice questions.

" Isn't it obvious pride fest two-thousand eight. The gay population of this town has overtaken our headquarters.'' Another womans voice smarts.

" Why are you such a phobe, masking some latent tendencies are we Greenlee. Thats my sister and her girlfriend and her ex. You're talking about.'' The voice replies it's Kendall of course.

'' Yeah, you know what they say about people who mock. They really are.'' A third voice laughs it is Babe.

Greenlee sneers. '' Please spare me the equal rights lecture. Both of you. Then searching for a way to change the subject she scans the room. What did go on here last night?''

'' We really should wake them up.'' Babe suggests.

'' I'll do it she's my sister. Kendall volunteers and bends over to slightly shake Bianca's arm. " Binx, hey wake up. Then Mickie's arm. Mickie hey.''

Frankie is the first to awaken she stretches then looks over to see. A crowd of women gathered around them. Babe,Kendall and an unknown face to her.

''Ugh, She grunts. Bianca wake up, B..come on wakey, wakey.'' Frankie nudges.

Bianca rolls her head in Frankie's direction. " Hey, you're up. Frankie ghasps almost sarcastically. Remember how I said you're family needed to get a life.'' She says drolly pointing to the group of women.

Bianca's eyes go wide as she becomes more alert. " Oh, my gosh we fell asleep.''

" Yeah, what exactly are you guys doing here asleep anyway?'' Kendall asks curious.

" I left my purse here last night and we came back here to get it. As we were getting ready to leave the storm hit and we ended up stuck in the elevator. We had to climb out and I guess we just fell asleep waiting the rain out.'' Bianca clarifies.

" And how'd Maggie get here?''

" She...uhh..she came looking for me when I didn't answer my cell phone. She thought maybe I'd be here.''

" Well the elevator works now and there's no more rain. So if the ambiguously gay trio doesn't mind. Leave so we can get some work done.'' Greenlee smarts.

Frankie snickers sarcastically rising off the couch to stand face to face with the woman. " I'm sorry what did you just say about us? ''

" What do you care?''

" Oh, I care alright.'' An agitated Frankie says in reply.

" Well I see someone missed their butch management classes.'' Greenlee scoffs crossing her arms.

"Why you little...'' Frankie goes to lunge at Greenlee.

Bianca and Kendall seperate them before an all out brawl begins. In the heat of the moment Bianca blurts out. '' Frankie no! stop it both of you.''

Before she realizes what she's done every jaw in the room drops.

Greenlee is the first to speak. " Did I miss something here? She responds. Now whose living in delusionalville. Frankie is that dead con artist cousin of Leo's.''

" Binx are you okay? Did you hit your head climbing out of that elevator?'' Kendall asks concerned.

" No she didn't hit her head she's fine. You all are the ones who need checked out. Especially you.'' Frankie answers glaring at Greenlee.

" I'm sorry Frankie.'' Bianca says in a low voice.

" It's alright they were gonna know eventually anyway. Don't feel bad.'' Frankie says reassuringly to the woman she loves.

" Know what exactly?'' Babe enquires.

Frankie takes a deep breath preparing herself. " I think we should start over. Kendall, Babe, You..She eyes Greenlee. Nice to meet you I'm Frankie Stone.''

'' Good lord!..'' Greenlee ghasps then passes out.

" God do I have that effect on everybody? Should I help her? I am a doctor.'' Frankie asks.

" Leave her.'' Kendall, Bianca and Babe all reply.

Maggie is sleeping through all of this .

" Yikes, Frankie shakes her head at the simultanious response. Okay whatever.''

" Oh, no see. Kendall steps up waving a corrective finger. You can't be Frankie Stone she's in the Pine Valley cemetary. That thieving,lying, con artist..'' She gets more irritated by the second. ''Who..who..''

" Who what?'' Frankie dares crossing her arms.

" Who used my sister in the worst way possible. Who are you really?'' Kendall enquires.

'' Eww..Frankie frowns. Do I have to say it? I'm Mary..Francis Stone. She gags. I didn't die you were all mislead.'' She smarts.

Bianca can't help but snicker under her breath she knew Frankie hated that name.

'' Bianca surely you're not buying into this?'' Kendall asks.

" As a matter of fact I am Kendall.'' Bianca asnwer in a sure tone. Frankie gives her a signature smug grin.

" So how come you wanted to make everyone think you were dead? Babe enquires. I don't understand?''

" Not wanted to had to. As in I had to enter the witness protection program. Testify against a slew of bad guys. The FBI thought it would be best for all parties involved. If I convienantly got Vanessa to shoot me while I was in a bullet proof vest. Then they replaced my body with a cadaver that looked like me sort of. Then I changed my name and now I'm here. Any questions?'' Frankie explains.

" This is weird, wait weren't you conning Bianca?'' Babe points out.

" Yeah, For about five seconds. She saw right through me with those beautiful brown eyes of her's. I couldn't go through with it.''

Bianca smiles at the compliment.

" If you were so in love with my sister why did cheat on her with J.R. Chandler." Kendall retorts.

" I didn't. Frankie quickly objects. Not like everyone thinks. I paid that guy in weed to act like he was sleeping with me. I made a big mistake in doing that I know. But it kept Bianca away from me long enough for me to do. Everything the Feds wanted me to do. Which basically consisted of me ticking off Vanessa it did the trick.'' She clarifies. " I don't know what he's been telling everyone but I got the feeling he's going to get punched again.''

" You, it was you that punched J.R.?'' Babe grins.

" Yeah, So?''

" He's my ex-husband I completely understand.''

" My apologies I assure you.'' Frankie responds.

" Thank you...Frankie isn't it?''

" Yep, and no problem.''

Greenlee has regained consciousness and overheard most of the conversations. She gets to her feet gingerely walks over to Frankie. Stopping directly in front of her, Then slap! right across the face Greenlee style lunging at her. " It isn't fair my sweet Leo dies and a piece of garbage like you gets to live!'' She scoffs as they struggle. Then. " Owww..Ow..Ow.''

Frankie has her on the ground in an armlock. " Let me go this instant!'' Greenlee demands.

" Shut up!, Frankie orders. I take it you were the chick that set off the sprinklers at my cousins not a wedding. What was the name..Bink help me out here? Tea bag no not it, Greentea, She shakes her head. Greenleaf..'' Frankie guesses grinning wildly.

" It's Greenlee! Now get your filthy gutter trash hands off of me!'' Greenlee demands trying to squirm out of the armlock.

Maggie awakens and stands up to see the scene unfold. Frankie spots her and greets her. " Hey, sis sleep well?'' She asks casually.

" So, so. Maggie replies yawning. I see you found Greenlee.''

" No Greenpeace here found me, she slapped me, then she called me trash. Then I put her in an arm lock.'' Frankie explains.

" I almost feel sorry for you..No wait I take that back I don't. But I do know that armlock hurts. Frankie used to put me in it all the time if I had something she wanted.'' Maggie tells evryone.

" Hey, that was only when you had candy.'' Frankie corrects.

" Uhuh,Right Frankie and that makes it better.'' Maggie replies wryly.

" Geez if I scarred ya' that bad get a shrink why don't ya'.'' Frankie comes back.

" I think you all need a shrink. Maggie get Butch here off of me.'' Greenlee orders.

" Now do you see what I mean?'' Frankie looks at her twin.

" I certainly do. Maggie nods. My sister is not trash or butch or whatever else you called her. Got it Greens.''

" Ugh, now theres two of'em. God help us all.'' Greenlee groans.

" Hey, Mags what was that thing we did to...whats her name in third grade?''

" Amy Forester? We sat on her until she apologized. For..''

" Throwing a rock at your head. Frankie grins. You thinkin' what I'm thinkin'?''

Maggie grins back. '' Right there with ya' sis.''

Greenlee panics.'' Oh, no you two aren't going to...ugh. She feels the impact. Sit on me.''

" Only til you say your sorry. '' They respond.

" Would you guys like me to order ya'll breakfast? because you're gonna be here for awhile tryin' to get Greenlee to admit guilt.'' Babe asks in a joking manner.

The population of the room are entirely amused at someone let alone two people are standing up to Greenlee Smyth Dupree.

" No thanks I'm good. How about you sis?'' Frankie asks.

" I'm good until we're done here. Then we're havin' breakfast and you're buyin'. You owe me for making me think you were dead for almost nine years. '' Maggie replies.

Frankie rolls her eyes. " Fine.''

" I'll sue, you can't do this to me! Do you even know who I am?'' Greenlee protests beating her fists on the ground and squirming.

" Does anybody hear that small chirping sound? Frankie asks. I think you guys might have a rodent problem.''

" I do, Oh, well. Maggie shruggs. I'm a doctor if you sue. I'll just testify that there was no risk of internal injury.''

" And I'm a cop. So I'll just testify that this was a domestic that got out of control. I was merely acting within my sworn duties to stop the confrontation. I could mace you and get away with it.'' Frankie adds in a casual tone.

" Oooh, good one.'' Maggie nods.

" Alright I'm..sorry.'' Greenlee says in a barely audible tone.

" What was that? I don't think they heard you at the exposer.'' Frankie musically taunts grinning evily.

" I'm sorry, I'm sorry, Now get off of me!'' Greenlee yells out.

" Good enough for me. How about you?'' Frankie asks.

" Yeah, lets get her up.'' Maggie answers.

The Twins stand and help Greenlee to her feet.

" Just so we're clear this is what happens when you mess with the Stone sisters. Maggie states, Then looking at her sister. Especially her.''

" Hey! I resent that remark. Frankie objects then rolling eyes. Fine it's true I'll getcha. And if we see any of this on a tabloid cover before B and I have the chance to tell Erica ourselves. I know who to come after.''

" Geez you're intense. Greenlee shakes her head. Like I'd really want this getting around. That you two sat on me until I apologized anyway.''

" Hold on. Kendall interjects. You're gonna tell our mother who you are? Are you insane?''

" No I'm not insane. But I know my Bianca and she won't let it drop until I do. So it's better I think of a way to do it quick like pulling a band-aid.'' Frankie responds. "A really,really big band-aid thats been sewn to your arm. Do we really have to tell her?'' Frankie asks looking to Bianca and rethinking.

" Bianca mom's gonna go beyond angry. Beyond anything we've ever seen she'll..she'll be out for blood. Kendall tries reasoning. And as much as I hate to admit it. I'd hate to see her get to Frankie here 'cuz I actually kinda like her. There I said it.''

" Yes we do. Bianca tells Frankie matter of factly then turning her attentions on her you like one of my girlfriends this is like..'' She can't find words for her laughter.

'' Wait you like me. Frankie throws her arms sarcastically around the woman. Oh, sis in law I didn't know you cared.''

" Don't push it either of you or I'll take it back.'' Kendal says back in shock from the hug even if it was a joke.

" Look I know it's probably asking alot. But can you all promise you won't say anything about who I am. Until B and I can tell momma K ourselves.'' Frankie asks suddenly more serious.

************************

The women huddle together in discussion.

" My God it's like watching a pack of wolves.'' Frankie whispers to Maggie and Bianca.

" Frankie you're so mean.'' Bianca chuckles.

" I think she's got a point Bianca, Maggie points. I mean just look at'em I think they're deciding which one of us to eat first.'' She says joking along with her sister.

'' God you're both impossible.'' Bianca states shaking her head.

The huddle breaks and Kendall turns to face them. " Ahem, She clears her throat. We have all decided to give you twenty-four hours. In which to tell mom and we'll hog tie Greens if she says anything before that. Now go on get outta here and start plotting.''

" Thank you sis.'' Bianca hugs her.

" Yeah, thanks sis.'' Frankie smarts.

" Oh, yeah, yeah...But I'm warning you Frankie Stone you hurt my baby sister and I'll be the one you'll have to contend with.'' Kendall threatens. " On the other hand if it works out I want to be maid of honor at your wedding.''

" You got it but you're wearing floral and I mean ugly floral.'' Frankie jokes back.

" I don't think so Frankie Stone, Bianca scolds. We will have a classy ceremony no ugly floral brides maids gowns.'' She jokes.

" Alright, But no pink ones either. I hate that color.''

" Okay, when and if the time comes no pink and no floral. Now lets get outta here like Kendall said.'' Bianca replies.

" Bye and good luck you guys.'' Babe wishes them.

" Thanks we'll need it. See you later.'' Bianca responds as Maggie, Frankie and herself go to leave Frankie and Bianca pause at the elevator.

" Uhh..You wanna..'' Frankie hesitates recalling the events of last night.

" Take the stairs you read my mind.'' Bianca finishes and they go to the stairwell.

Maggie shakes her head and follows them. " Ya' know elevators bust all the time. It's nothing new you guys can't take the stairs forever.''

**************************

Setting: Landview.

" Thanks for the ride it would've been a long walk.'' The tall man tells the driver.

" No problem one thing though.''

" Yeah.''

" Who is that woman in the picture? Your girlfriend or somethin'?'' The driver asks.

" No I mean I don't know I can't remember. I have amnesia and all I know is that she seems familiar to me. So I thought I'd go to where she lives see if it jogs anything back ya' know.'' The tall man replies.

" Well good luck. I hope you find some answers in Pine Valley.''

" Yeah, me too man thanks .''

**************************

" Jack I'm terribly worried I haven't seen or heard from Bianca since early yesterday morning.'' Erica tells Jackson concerned.

" Erica I can assure you she's fine. Jack says. I talked to f..Mickie yesterday and she said she and Bianca were taking Miranda to the movies. Then spending the rest of the day together by themselves. You know what it's like to want some time alone with the person you love don't you?''

" Of course I do Jack. Erica smiles anrily. In fact I've been wondering when we were going to have some time like that ourselves. You've been so busy working on Ava's defense case that I've hardly seen you.''

" Well I'm here now. What do you say we have a third honeymoon today.'' He says hintingly.

" I say that sounds wonderful where is everyone?''

" Shawn's out with Colby at the movies. And Lily is at work we are all alone.'' Jack replies smiling.

" Well in that case come here Mr. Montgomery.'' Erica motions a finger.

" I'll do that Mrs. Montgomery.'' With that he kisses her.

*****************************

While Erica and Jack enjoy being alone for the moment. Unaware of the plot unfolding elsewhere.

Setting: BJ's.

We join Bianca, Frankie and Maggie. Who are at the present finishing up they're breakfast. Discussing how to tell Erica the good news. That the woman she hated more than anyone else to be with her daughter. Is alive and well and with Bianca once more.

" Hey, I know. Frankie perks up. You've got that jet right Bianca?''

" Yeah so.''

" So. We could zip in real quick tell mama K who I am. She gives chase and you and I and the kid fly off to like Hawaii or somewhere.''

" That might work if this were a comic book.'' Bianca laughs.

" Okay lets just get on the jet and skip the telling your mom part.''

" Frankie get serious.'' Bianca scolds.

" Yeah, sis there has to be something brewing in that crooked little mind of yours?'' Maggie comments.

" Other than feeding Erica to a dinosaur nothing comes to mind.'' Frankie replies amusingly.

" Frankie Stone! stop that right now. Dinosaurs are extinct think of something better.'' Bianca tells her comedically. " It's going to be hard enough to..''

" Drop the bomb.'' Maggie finishes casually taking a sip of her coffee.

" Exactly.''

" Wait I know.'' Frankie says thinking outloud.

" This had better be logical Frankie or so help me I'll kill you.'' Bianca threatens.

" Love you too.. geez. Frankie shakes her head. It is logical I'll have you know. We get Jack, Opal and Mags here together and call Erica have her meet us at Opals and we tell her one by one.''

" Wow that is a pretty good idea. Makes sense to me that way we've got reinforcements in case...'' Bianca trails.

" I think you mean to say when.. she blows up or implodes or whatever she's going to do. '' Frankie points out.

" If she goes nuts on you like she did on me when I first came to town.. Maggie goes to say something then pauses. That's funny she thought I was you and that you'd faked your death. Kinda' ironic huh?''

" Let me guess she called you a lying, underhanded, con artist bitch right. Said that she didn't know how you could do something so despicable.'' Frankie says with some amusement in her voice trying to disguise her inner fear.

" Yeah, good guess. To which I responded that you were none of those things and she was crazy.''

" Awww..sis I didn't know you cared.'' Frankie smarts though she is touched inside. " That was nothin' compared to..'' She trails looking at Bianca they both laugh.

" What is this an inside joke that doesn't require a full clue me in?'' Maggie requests.

" The night we first met.'' Bianca grins.

" Right you never really told me about that Bianca. What happened between you two to set her off?'' Maggie enquires.

Frankie drinks her orange juice quietly Bianca gives her a look. " Oh, my turn. Right well Erica ran me over with her car. And yes she really did hit me I was assigned to con you. Not throw myself in front of a vehicle that was not part of the plan. Erica gets outta the car, takes out her phone and calls her lawyer Jack of all people. When we get to the hospital Bianca shows up and that was it for me. I couldn't go through with it. But what I always thought what really sent her flying was that...'' Frankie lets up so Bianca can finish.

" Oh, You mean that you kissed me in the middle of a hospital room. While at the same time trying to limp out of the place.'' Bianca responds.

" Well I just couldn't resist Biancala.'' Frankie winks.

'' Ewww.... I think I'm gonna lose my breakfast. Like I wanna hear my sister confess her undying affection to her girlfriend. Frankie I didn't know you where the sappy type anyway.''

" Only for Bianca.'' Frankie replies looking into her loves eyes her own sparkling with what looked liked hope.

" Oh, Frankie you are so sappy. Bianca states teasingly. Okay so when do we do this?''

Just then Frankies cellphone rings. " I gotta answer it, it could be about the case.'' Frankie flips open her phone. " Hey Tad whats up? Yeah I am, Yes I did and she's sitting right here. She smiles. Really Landview in an hour. I'll be there.'' Frankie hangs up.

" So what was that about?'' Maggie asks.

" Well first off Tad said congratulations that you kept me. Even though I'm your pain in the rear ex-girlfriend who faked her own death.'' Frankie states looking back at Bianca.

'' You can tell him I kept you inspite of that.'' Bianca laughs.

" Oh, funny babe, Frankie laughs sarcastically. And I have to get outta here and drive to Landview for...do you want to know?''

Bianca sighs, " Go ahead and tell me anyway?''

" Alright we got a meet with the big bossman drug dealer. Apparently our rep. has been growing. I think he's gonna ask if I wanna be a seller. Which puts me that much closer to nailing this Benson dude.'' Frankie explains looking almost regretful.

" You seemed really distant when you said that. Whats going on Frankie?'' Bianca asks in her typical caring voice.

" It's nothing I'll deal. Frankie replies standing to leave. Okay now Mags make sure B here doesn't worry about me while I'm gone. And don't try and pull a peacemaker on me and go and tell Erica without reinforcements.''

" Why would I do anything like that?'' Bianca asks matter of factly.

" 'Coz I know you and you like a happy ending. But Erica is going to be way too intense and hates me too much for you to do this alone. Bianca.. promise me?''

" Fine Frankie I promise I won't try to tell my mother that the love of my life is alive.'' Bianca surrenders.

" What you can do is get your uncle Jack and Opal gathered up by five. And Maggie and I will meet you guys at Opals place. In my old room remember that dontcha'?'' Frankie winks.

" How can I forget I do believe I won the pillow fight.''

" Only because I let you. Frankie grins. I'll see you both later. She goes to walk but turns. Oh, and don't call me. I'll call you I don't know how long we'll be and you'll blow my cover.''

" Ugh, thats just an overshare from both of you.'' Maggie gags looking ill.

" Alright see you later. Be careful Frankie I don't want you shot...again.''' Bianca quips with hidden anxiety in her tone.

" Don't worry and thats very amusing. Bye sis.''

" Bye.'' Maggie replies and Frankie is out the door.

********************

" Yes! I told her and she still loves me. Now just do what she said and don't get shot up this time Stone. Also fight the overwhelming urge to bolt right outta this town.'' Frankie says to herself breathing deep. As she gets in her car. " Now I just have to get past Erica and we'll be okay.''

Scene fades out.

*****************************

Awhile later.

Setting: Landview diner.

" So you told her huh? And Maggie knows too.'' Tad says.

" Yep. And neither one of'em killed me. Oh, And Kendall,Babe and Greenlee know now too.''

" So that puts you down to two. Erica and Josh.'' Tad replies as he sips a coffee. They are waiting for the dealer to show.

" Oh, man. Frankie scolds herself mentally. I forgot about Josh I don't want him to hate me. We're buds an' I don't have alot of them.''

" You thats hard to imagine what with your gleaming personality and all.''

" Watch it pal. Frankie warns. So where the hell is this dude? He was suposed to show like an hour ago.'' She says looking at her watch.

" Don't you know all drug dealers are showing up fashionably late these days.''

" Funny that usually means they got scared or tipped off. Either way if they do show I'm glad you took my advice and started wearing some street friendly clothing.'' Frankie replies looking at Tads blue jeans and grey zippered sweatshirt.

" No more crate ducking for me. I'm very fashionable didn't you know?'' Tad jokes.

" No you..Frankie ghasps sarcastically. Then looking at the doors which she has been observing every so often. I think they're here ditch the office talk.''

A well dressed man in an expensive looking suite makes his way over to where Frankie and Tad sit at a table out of the way of alot of customers.

" You Andi and Tito?''

" That all depends. Who wants to know?'' Frankie asks speaking first.

" Look I don't have all day are you them or not?'' The man asks impatiently.

Frankie knew she knew that voice from somewhere but couldn't place it. She did know this guy was clearly more experianced in recruiting would be junkies as dealers. She couldn't get away with her usual games she had to be more clever.

" Yeah we are. Who may I ask are you?''

" I am your friendly neighborhood seller. You don't need to bother with a name. You may call me Brian if it makes you more comfortable to do so. ''

" Well 'Brian' what did you ask to meet us here about?'' Frankie asks inquisitively.

" I have been hearing some things about a buyer-seller group coming pretty close to competing with me.'' The man states seating himself.

" Yeah, so. Frankie says. Whats the matter can't handle the competition. Did you come here to nark on us or eliminate us?''

Tad frowns nervously at the dirty blonde womans last line of questioning.

" Neither I assure you. I don't dirty my hands with murder. I've come to ask you to join my group of top sellers. You'll get top of the line 'merchandise' directly from the manufacturer of which I have my own. I go through nobody else. In return you recieve a cut of all your sales.''

'' How big a cut we talkin' here?'' Frankie enquires.

" Something around twenty-five percent split between you and your partner. I don't see him talking is he deaf or somethin'?''

" No I let her do the haggling I just listen.'' Tad replies.

" What do you both think of the money cut?''

" Twenty-five percent split two ways. I don't think so guess you'll just have to put up with competition. If that is truly the best offer you can make us. Come on Tito lets head out.'' Frankie and Tad act as if they are leaving.

" Wait Fifty percent thats twenty-five for each of you. Take it or leave it but I assure you. You want to take it all my sellers get the first cut of the merchandise for their own personal use. If you catch my drift.'' The well dressed man hints.

" What do you think Andi?''

" I don't know Tito I think this guy is pullin' our chains. There is no way he's gonna give us twenty five percent a piece. But that sign on bonus of first choice does sound appealing.''

" Does that mean yes or do I have to resort to other actions.''

" I thought you didn't kill people?''

" I don't I leave them wishing I had.''

Frankie and Tad act as though they are discussing it. '' We'll take it. When do we start?''

" I will call you and give you a pickup location. Then I'll give you a list of customers to deliver to. And I'd better not recieve any phonecalls telling me that they only got half of what they paid for either.'' The man says threateningly ad he stand up and leaves.

" Phew..Frankie breathes relieved he is gone. We did it. Now we have to sell and trust me thats a demanding job.''

" You haggle with the best of them 'Andie' I can't believe how tough you were with that guy. I thought I was gonna need adult diapers he was scary.'' Tad admits.

" Well I guess when you've had to do the job. For your crazy aunt who tried to off you. That that guy will look less than scary to you too.'' Frankie replies.

" Point made loud and clear. Tad says. So we blowin' this popsicle stand or what?''

" Definately with you on that one. Lets get outta here I'm gonna be late for a date with Bianca and Bianca's mom.'' Frankie states in a less than enthusiastic tone.

" Sorry hey ,do you think I'll be able to hear the police sirens across town when they come to arrest her?''

" Dude that is so not humorous.'' Frankie flashes him a look.

As they go to walk out a figure walks in to the restaraunt that they both recognize. Frankie and Tad stand stunned. Then Frankie turns to look at Tad.

" My God my cousin is alive.'' Frankie ghasps.

**************************

Chapter 10d.

Last time on future AMC if the writers were good that is. 'Mickie' 'came out' to Bianca by telling her she was really Frankie. After several tries she finally convinced the woman she loved that she was telling the truth. But what Frnakie hadn't counted on was Maggie running they're blood samples together. And finding out they match after a long night the women had all fallen asleep at Fusion. Only to awaken and have Greenlee, Kendall and Babe all find out that Mickie was really Frankie. As they formed a plan to tell Erica Frankie was called off on assignment only on her way home. She ran into a man that she knew from her past.

" My God my cousin is alive.'' Frankie ghasps.

" Thats Leo alright. But how?'' Tad wonders.

" Didn't they never find a body well theres why. There was no dead body to find he's alive and well a little rough looking actually.'' Frankie comments and walks up to the tall blonde man. '' Hey 'cuz long time no see.''

'' I'm sorry I think you're mistaken. What did you just call me?'' The man says turning around to face Tad and Frankie.

" She's not mistaken I'm pretty sure I need to check and see. If anybody else I know has come back from the dead lately.'' Tad says in disbelief to Frankie.

" Yeah, you do that. I called you cousin because you are my cousin. Whats with the act? I knew ya' didn't like me but dontcha think this is taking it a little too far Leo?''

" Huh? What act I have amnesia. As in can't remember my life before...nevermind. He says brushing Frankie off. And who did you say I was?'' He asks curiously.

" Whoa, I didn't know you had amnesia. Okay from the top I am Mary-Francis Stone your cousin. You are Leo Dupres my aunt Vanessa's son. Although ya' didn't turn out like her. Thank God.'' Frankie explains shaking her head.

This triggers a memory flash in Leo's mind.

"Bianca!'' Leo exclaims opening his door.

" Leo!'' Bianca responds playfully.

" Leo.'' Another womans voice says causing him to turn.

''Mary Francis?''

" Frankie, '' Frankie says walking through the door of Leo's house. How longs it been? What was I in diapers or something? She says gingerely looking at a chapaign glass and pulling out a watch. " Science experiment?''

''Give me that.'' Leo snatches the watch from her hand playfully.

" What I wasn't lifting it.''

" Ahuh.''

" I was rescuing it.'' Frankie explains looking guilty.

" She was stealing cd's in grade school or so I'm told.'' Leo tells Bianca walking over next to her.

"Please don't exaggerate.. I was nine and my scores where dirt compared to yours but aunt Vanessa now she targeted the big game.''

Then he snaps back to the present he sensed there was something more. But he couldn't remember and it made his churn into nots.

" Okay so you're Frankie and I'm Leo you say. And who are you?''

" Tad Martin.''

" Doesn't ring a bell.'' Leo replies.

" Sure he gets a flashback when your name is mentioned but me nothin'.''

" Well I'm special I guess. Frankie says trying to sound smart but it comes out more puzzled than anything. So where ya' headed to?''

" To get some food and then to Pine Valley to talk to this woman. I think she might have some more answers for me.'' Leo replies handing Frankie the newspaper with Greenlee on the cover.

" Thats Greenlee I'd know that smug face anywhere. She tells Tad in a whisper. Then speaking louder. Well how bout I buy you lunch on the way to Pine Valley. See I just happen to live there I can take you to see Greenlee and Bianca and anyone else you might wanna meet that you know.'' Frankie tells him.

" Uhmm..sure who's Bianca?'' Leo asks as they walk out into the parking lot.

" Only like your best friend in the whole world. Frankie replies. You accused me of trying to make off with her fortune when we started dating. Just F.Y.I. I didn't.''

" Whoa, so I have a gay cousin and a gay best friend and a girlfriend in this Pine Valley place?''

" Actually two gay cousins my twin Maggie is gay too. Don't act suprised because believe me no one was more suprised than me. Get in.'' Frankie says unlocking her car.

" Okay lotta info to process here. I appreciate this ride though.'' Leo says shaking his head.

" No big 'cuz I know you wouldn't do the same for me. If you could remember me that is.'' Frankie responds.

" So you're like with this Bianca who is like my best bud.''

" Uhh yeah. ''

'' Can you tell me anymore about my past?''

'' Not a whole lot. But I'll give ya' what I know.'' Frankie answers preparing to explain.

****************************

Setting Pine Valley.

Location: Opal's house afternoon.

Theres a knock on Opal's door as she opens it. A familiar smiling face is revealed.

" Bianca! Come on in. To what do I owe this visit?''

" Thanks Opal.'' Bianca replies happily walking into the house and seating herself in a chair in the living room.

" Well now aren't you just walkin' on air today. '' Opal comments at the woman's demeanor.

" Yes I am. Bianca beams. I came by to check on Ava and to ask a favor..a big favor.''

" Ava's fine shes in Frankie's old room. I hope that's okay? And as far as this favor goes I'll help ya' if I can.'' Opal answers honestly and a little baffled. " Wait how come Mickie didn't come and check on Ava herself?''

" Well She got called off to Landview for a bust and Frankie asked me to come here and ask you this favour.'' Bianca says letting out that she knows who Mickie really is.

" Okay what is it?....wait did you just say Frankie? She told you didn't she?'' Opal figures out.

" Yes, Last night, Bianca is smiling but there are unshed tears of joy in her eyes. At the return of her lost love. And the favour is we want to use your place to tell mom. It was Frankie's idea I don't have a clue as to why though..''

" Well of course you may..But tell Frankie I'm holdin' her responsible for any broken vases or china. When Erica finds out.''

" I'll do that and one more thing?''

" Yes darlin'.''

" We want you there and uncle Jack and Maggie too. That way there are how did Frankie put it 'witnesses' in case she goes postal.'' Bianca replies.

" That sounds like a euphimism Frankie would use alright. Opal takes a deep breath. Now that's my best friend you're askin' me to admit I lied to for eight years.''

" I know Frankie knows that too. And if you don't want to thats fine we'll totally understand but we'd really like you to be there for that exact reason nobody knows mom better than you.'' Bianca persuades.

" Well how can I say no when you put it like that. Opal laughs nervously at the very thought of how her dear friend will react to this news. Alright I'm in ,but you're both still responsible for damages.''

" Okay thats fine..Just then Biacna's cell rings. Oh, speaking of Frankie thats her. " Hello,''

***************************

"Hey gorgeous whats up?'' Frankie asks casualy.

***************

" I'm at Opals she said yes to helping us. So whats up with you?'' Bianca asks.

*******************************

" I'm fine if thats what you're asking. Frankie replies knowing the woman too well. Listen I need you to do something for me.''

*****************

" What else because you know I'm kinda doin' alot right now?''

***************

"Yes I know but it's pretty simple. I need you to invite a couple extra people for me.'' Frankie says half explaining.

" Who?''

" Kendall and TeaBags or GreenTea whatever she's called.'' Frankie answers.

" Its Greenlee and may I ask why?'' Bianca enquires looking strangely on her end of the line.

" You can but I won't tell you. Just know that you and alotta other people are in for a shock.''

" Frankie I've already had all the shock I can take with you.'' Bianca comes back hesitant over whatever news this could be.

" I know that. Frankie says. But I have the feeling this might just suprise you in a good way like I did.'' She grins on her end of the line.

'' Mary Francis Stone what are you not saying?'' Bianca enquires impatiently calling her by her full name.

" I told you never to call me that. Frankie scolds playfully. I can't say. I gotta go I hit traffic see ya' at five later Biancala.'' She gets out in a rushed tone.

" Frankie Stone! Bianca says loudly. But her lines gone dead. When I see you I'm gonna..I'm gonna..I don't know what I'm gonna. But it'll be something not yet seen before by the face of man!'' She growls frustratedly.

" What on earth has you so worked up Bianca?'' Opal asks concerned for her younger friend.

" I don't know..as in Frankie won't tell me. All I know is that I have to invite my sister and uhh..Greenlee now too. ''Bianca explains rubbing her forehead tiredly.

" Well I couldn't tell ya' either. Theres no gettin' into Frankies mind sometimes it's locked tighter than a bank safe.'' Opal replies in her attempt to comfort.

" Thanks Opal but I think it's a cracked safe. Bianca quips. So I guess I should be going theres alot to do before tonight.''

" Bye Bianca dear Oh, one thing before ya' go truckin' off to invite the rest of the cavalry. What time should I be expecting guests?'' Opal asks holding up a finger.

" Around five Opal. See you then bye.'' Bianca walks out the door.

***********************

Moments later at the P.V. PD. Bianca walks into Jack Montgomery's office.

" Hello Bianca how are you?''

" Fine uncle Jack. Actually better than fine I'm positively floating. I'm so happy.'' Bianca smiles.

" Oh, I see and would Mickie have something to do with this floating? Or is it that you missed breakfast?'' Jack teases.

" Funny uncle Jack. Bianca replies. Yes Mickie does have something to do with it. But I think you can drop the act.''

" Drop what act dear?'' Jack asks looking a little lost.

" You can call her Frankie now. She told me everything.''

" Ahah, and are you angry with me? Because I couldn't tell anyone the FBI made us all be silent about what happened. Jack explains feeling slightly guilty in having kept this information secret so long. I know you were in alot of pain over Frankies death I'm very sorry I..''

" Uncle Jack stop. Bianca holds up a hand to silence the man. I understand Frankie explained it all to me. I admitt I was a little suprised to find out you'd all been hiding this from me. But I can't stay mad at you uncle Jack..or Opal. I'm too happy.''

" Well then congratulations I'm glad you two are still together.''

" I am too. Not that we don't have alot to work on and talk about. But I think it's worth it she did do all of this so we could be happy together. The least I can do is give us a chance..again.''

'' Well I'm very happy for the both of you. Now how can I help you?'' Jack asks.

" We're telling mom..tonight and we want you to help cushion the blow. You won't be alone we already got Opal to help us out too. And we're using her house it was Frankie's idea.'' Bianca admitts.

" Of course I will Bianca you know I'm always here if you need anything. And for that matter you can tell Frankie the same goes for her.''

" Thank you Uncle Jack I will. We all meet at five and I have some other stuff to do. So I'll see you then. Bye.''

" Bye dear. Jack replies before Bianca exits totally. Then to hisself. I'll just be drawing up new divorce papers now.''

*******************************

Several hours later Opals house.

Bianca has gathered. Maggie,Opal (of course),Jack, Kendall and Greenlee. Of course the guest of honor Erica Kane. Who all stand some impatiently waiting.

" Bianca darling what is this big wonderful news you were telling me about?'' Erica asks.

" I can't say anything until my girlfriend arrives mom.'' Bianca replies trying not to use the womans name.

" Bink whats up where the heck is my sister?'' Maggie whispers into Bianca's ear.

" I honestly don't know Maggie.'' Bianca answers shaking her head.

" I'm right here god everyone is so impatient.'' Frankie says walking into the living room area of Opals house. There are too many people talking so Frankie picks up a glass of water takes her car key and taps it gently against the glass. Until everyone is quieted and their attentions turned on Her.

" Wow I thought that only worked in the movies. Okay everybody Erica, Kendall, egh.. Greenlee I've asked you all here because I have something to tell you all.''

Erica ghasps outloud. " I think I know you and my daughter are engaged aren't you? Frankie pales at the womans suggestion. Congratulations!'' She exclaims.

Frankie looks as though she could faint. Bianca reads the look and steps in.

" No, no We aren't engaged mom. I think you've got the wrong idea.''

" Well tell me what idea should I have? Why have we all been brought here?'' Erica then enquires.

" I was getting to that. Frankie says pointedly outside she looked calm and collected. But inwardly she was a bundle of nerves. Knowing what she had to do though she stepped up. I've been carrying around a secret of sorts and I called you all here tonight to tell you. Some of you already know and Bianca and I have asked you here to help us tell everyone who doesn't. I'm not who I said I was exactly.''

Bianca can read the tention in Frankies movements she takes a reassuring hold on the womans arm. " Go on honey I'm right here.''

" Yeah me too.'' Maggie adds.

" Well I don't understand then who are you? '' Erica asks being a bit suprised herself. She had begun to like the woman in her daughters life. In recent months they gotten along fairly well.

" I lived here in Pine Valley eight years ago to be exact. Frankie admitts. And I do have family here as it turns out.''

" Who? Do I know them? Why did you lie Mickie." Erica enquires trying to sound angered but it only comes out like she is more baffled than angry.

" Whoa, one question at a time. Frankie prepares herself taking in a breath and letting it go. Okay, I lied not becuase I wanted to. But because I had to I was a witness to several murders. And also had information on drug trafficking in the area. I knew who was behind it. And the FBI made me fake my own death and change my name so that I could testify. Against them in court it took me two years to bear witness against them all. Then the feds told me that I could return to a normal life. Go anywhere do anything I went to school with the money they gave me for my testimony. Then I came back here.''

" I don't understand who are you then?'' Erica asks becoming slightly agitated that she cannot figure out who this woman is.

" My birth name is not Michelle Pierce it's... Mary Francis Stone, miss Kane.'' Frankie replies withdrawing from calling the woman Erica as she normally would as Mickie. " I didn't die eight years ago like everyone..well almost everyone thought.''

Erica looks around the room stunned there aren't more people as shocked as she is. By this revelation as to the dark blonde's identity. " What am I the only one here who is a little suprised? Jack did you know about this?''

" Yes as a matter of fact I did Erica and I hated having to keep this from you and Bianca and Maggie all these years.'' Jack admitts. " But what Frankie did saved your life and your daughters life isn't that right Frankie?''

" Yeah, Frankie says picking up the conversation. see I didn't know what Vanessa wanted from me at first. I thought I was just supposed to cause a little trouble distract you. But then I fell in love with your daughter and I told her I couldn't go through with it. But she said that if I didn't then she'd kill me, you and Bianca well I couldn't have that happen either. So I struck a deal with the police and the FBI who I did not know had been watching her for months. All I had to do was keep Bink here outta the way so there would be no witnesses and tick off Vanessa at the same time. Enter that J.R. creep I got stoned, he got stoned we went back to my place at Opals and Bianca came in on us which blew my aunts plan sky high. And at the same time made Bianca upset enough to stay clear of me. I called you had you looking for her and I knew you'd say something to Vanessa that'd piss her off enough to wanna kill me so she did. Or atleast she thought she did anyway thats my story.''

" My god you..you con artist you're disgusting pretending to be dead so that you could get money from the government. You were no good then and you're no good now. Just trash disguised as a human being. You bitch how could you my daughter mourned you for months, no years. She had to be hospitalized when she found out you were dead. Did that make you feel good did it Frankie answer me.'' Erica rages her eyes burn into Frankie's.

" NO it was hell everyday I woke up and I wanted to call her and tell her I'm here I'm alive. Don't feel bad. But I couldn't without putting her back in the line of fire. I won't apologize for what I did so don't expect me to.''

Erica is still but her eyes give away that the wheels are already turning. She flashes back to Thanksgiving night 2001.

" What if my truth is that I do love your daughter. What if I'm willing to do whatever it takes clean up my act. Get a job go back to school. What if I'm the person your daughter is ready to spend the rest of her life with. What then Erica would you invite all our friends throw us a coming out party. Really Erica what would you do if I was your new reality?''

" I'd say I hope it's true for my daughters sake..and yours.''

Erica comes back to the present. These words hit harder now perhaps because Frankie was telling the truth. Though she had believed it was a lie all these years. " You really did do everything to be back in my daughters life? Did you love her then ? Do you love her now? Or are you still pulling a con over on her?''

" MOM!'' Bianca scolds.

" It's alright Bianca let me handle this. Frankie tells her. Get it through your thick head already I AM NOT CONNING ANYONE. Think about this Erica if it was all just a con. Would I have put up with this from you for months? No I'd be on a leer jet far away from this crazy place. For that matter if I'm such a con out for money why would I have paid for every dinner we've had since Bianca and I started dating. Face it you were wrong then and you are so wrong now. Come on time to start eatin' crow mom.'' Frankie smarts her attitude getting the best of her.

Erica doesn't know how to process this new information. It's too much to take in she reacts by going into defense mode and SLAP! right to Frankies face.

Maggie steps between them defensively as Frankie cradles her face in her hands. " What did you do that for Erica? Didn't you just hear my sister she did what she did to protect Bianca. From that windbag aunt of ours. Remember she locked me in an ice shack and left me to die? Threatened everyone around you and killed Leo. Now apologize to her this instant.'' She demands wanting of all things to protect her newly discovered much alive sister.

" I'll do no such thing she should be the one apologizing here not me. I...I have nothing more to say to any of you. I have to go.'' Erica states although for some reason her mind is thinking on all this.

" I love Bianca Erica there is nothing that can fix what I did. But I'm gonna spend every minute I can trying. It doesn't matter how hard you hit me because I got an old man that hits a hell of alot harder.''

" You are no good Frankie. I know I can smell no good a mile away.'' Erica says in a controlled angered tone.

" Maybe its just that high end perfume. Whats the slogan again oh, yeah 'Get that enchanted scent'. '' Frankie says back.

" I have had enough of this..this re-enactment from the garden of good and evil.'' Erica growls as she heads for the door.

" Man she needs to read more that was about the mob.'' Frankie says casually still holding her face Maggie tries to look at it. " Mags I'm fine it's cool oww.. hey don't..'' She tries unsuccessfully to brush her sisters hand away.

" Oh, yeah Frankie it's so fine that it's not going to bruise.'' Maggie smarts.

'' You mean Erica Kane blackened my eye? Oh, man I was gonna have a family photo taken after the happy ending.'' Frankie smarts.

" Stop being so childish Frankie. I think you'll survive.'' Maggie replies. " You know some makeup would cover that right up.''

" Not on your life sis.''

" Uncle Jack can you follow her make sure she's alright. I'm gonna stay here and take care of Frankie.'' Bianca says worriedly.

" Yes sweetheart I'll go after my wife now if you'll all excuse me. Opal nice seeing you again.'' Jack says as he too heads out the door.

" You too Jack I hope ya' enjoyed bein' married this long. I'll get ya' some ice for that Frankie.'' Opal replies going into the kitchen.

Frankie, Maggie and Bianca all sit down on the sofa. " That went well, Frankie says in a defeated tone as she rubs her cheek. Bianca please tell me we're done telling people now.''

" We're done telling people now. For what its worth I think we were getting through to her.'' Bianca says reassuringly rubbing Frankie's back.

" Really when would ya' say that happened before or after she hit me? Honestly she hits harder than Vito. Did your mom like train with Mike Tyson or something Oh, my god am I missing an earlobe too.'' Frankie says sarcastically half mad half pained. She didn't want to sound harsh but it was her defense mechanism.

Bianca knew that Frankie was in defense mode so she tried brushing it off with humor. Briefly lifting Frankie's hair and looking at her ears. " Nope they're both still there.''

Frankie can't help but smile a small smile at the woman she loves. In her effort to make her feel better.

**************************

A few moments pass.

" Here Frankie put this on your face it'll take the redness out and keep it from bruising hopefully. '' Opal instructs handing Frankie a baggie of ice.

" Thanks Opal. Frankie stands holding the ice to her face. Now you two. She says looking at Kendall and Greenlee. I have you guys here for another reason. Mags, Bianca you all might wanna brace yourselves. I found somebody while I was in Landview today. Well he's not my buddy but you all know him and I think you're gonna be suprised. Greentea don't faint.''

" It's Greenlee you...you..What could you possibly have in store that would make me faint?''

" Yeah, Thats something I'd like to know myself? '' Kendall adds arms crossed and a brow raised in question.

" Frankie no more suprises honey I just can't take it.'' Bianca pleads warily.

" Chill I think you'll like this one.'' Frankie replies as she goes to the door. " Come on in there are some people I'd like you to meet.''

With that a tall man with blonde hair, boyish goodlooks and a small beard walks in. In a t-shirt and old faded jeans.

" Uhmm..Hi I'm Leo or so Frankie here tells me. Everyone I've been around calls me Max though.'' He states shyly.

" Oh, my god Leo!'' Bianca exclaims running up to hug him she begins to cry more happy tears at the return of her best friend.

" Leo.. you're..alive..'' Greenlee gets out before fainting.

" I knew she was gonna do owe me twenty bucks.'' Frankie says knowingly to her sister.

" Where did you find him at?'' Maggie enquires completely disregarding her sisters joke.

" In a cafe in Landview where Tad and I met the dealer.'' Frankie explains.

The contact from Bianca's hug triggers a memory flash in Leo's mind.

" It's a beautiful night I thought you might wanna get some fresh air before you go home.''

" And face my mother?'' Bianca asks arms crossed half mad and half confused.

" Hey, I'm not gonna tell your mom where you were or how you got there okay.'' Leo swears trying to reassure his younger friend.

" God! I'm so stupid whats my mom going to do when she finds out that..I'm gay.'' Bianca sobs.

Then he re-enters the present.

"Whoa, '' This causes Leo to back out of the hug.

" Are you alright Leo?'' Maggie asks.

" He's got amnesia Mags. He can't remember you or Bianca or Greenlee that well either.''

Leo doesn't know why but he feels the need to rush to the collapsed woman's aide. He gets on his knees and half holds her trying to awaken her. " Greenlee, Greenlee, Greens wake up.'' Leo jogs the woman conscious he doesn't know how he knew her name though.

" Leo!'' Greenlee reaches her arms up and hugs the man tightly.

" Yeah apparently thats my name.'' Leo remarks.

" Leo did you remember something just now?'' Frankie asks.

" Uhh..yeah I think. Leo replies unsure of what he's remembered. I think I remembered you. He points at Bianca. I had a flash we were in like a gazeebo or something.''

" The Boathouse you mean?'' Bianca asks. " Yeah, we always went there.''

" Yes thats it. Leo acknowledges. You told me you were gay..?'' He asks in a low tone not wanting to offend the woman.

" Oh, god you remembered that...Bianca groans blushing at the memory. Of all the things to flash back to you would pick that wouldn't you Leo?'' She says embarressed.

" Wait what? Okay I gotta know this one B?'' Frankie asks grinning.

" Later Frankie, much, much later.'' Bianca responds.

" Thats the thanks I get for bringin' your best buddy back to town huh? Well I'm feeling a little neglected if you'll excuse I'll just be leaving.'' Frankie says having been looking for just the excuse to ditch out on the family reunion. Family was never Frankie's scene and this on top of everything else just added to her discomfort. Even more so now that she knew Erica would once again be out to destroy her.

" Wait Frankie you can't just ditch like this. Not over that, thats silly please stay.'' Bianca pleads though sensing there is more to Frankie's sudden mood change. Than the fact that she was surrounded by family. No this had to do with her mother.

" Bianca let me go please. I just..I just need to go..for awhile get some air I'm not gonna leave you. But let me leave.'' Frankie reasons in a calm controlled tone.

Bianca knew that Frankie only took on a calm tone like that with her. Anyone else Frankie would've smarted off to and ran. '' Frankie please I need you right now. Don't walk out on me Frankie...Frankie..'' It was too late Frankie had already walked out and left they all heard her car start up and pull out. Bianca started to cry once more then she was angry her tears haulted. Completely denying what had occurred she turned her attentions to Leo.

" Binx are you okay?'' Kendall asks concerned. " I'm not so sure I like her now is it too late to retract my statement.''

" It's okay Kendall really Frankie's got alot on her mind right now. We both do I don't blame her for wanting to think about things alone. It's how she works brooding and in self pity. I used to think it was cute now not so much.'' Bianca admitts depressively.

" Hey Binx come here let big brother Leo give ya' a hug.'' Leo says standing he seems to be remembering alot of his past at once.

Bianca complies and tears streak down her face.

Maggie interrupts the moment between the good friends. To shine a light in Leo's eyes. " Have you had any weak spells, dizziness, headaches, insomnia,nausea?'' She asks swinging into doctor mode.

" Uhhhmmm...some insomnia I guess..and the occasional headache why?''

" Is there something wrong Maggie?'' Bianca asks.

" Not sure I can't tell until he comes into the hospital for some tests. I dont think it's really anything to get worked up over just yet. Maggie reassures everyone. What year is it Leo?''

" It's two-thousand two why Mags and how did you get to be a doctor so fast? And how is it that Frankie is alive?'' Leo enquires curiously.

" It's two thousand eight Leo. And she faked her death all that time ago to testify against Vanessa's drug cartel. Apparently she witnessed smuggling and several murders. She's been in witness protection all this time under an assumed name.'' Maggie explains.

" Whoa, so Frankie really wasn't conning you huh Binx?'' Leo says scratching his head trying to make sense out of this situation. " Okay so what else did I miss?''

" I don't know what you missed Leo but I missed you.'' Greenlee states starting to tear up at the sight of her own lost love.

*******************************

Meanwhile elsewhere on the New Beginnings set Erica is venting through denial. As she reads her fan letters. Jack walks up on her as she is doing this.

" Erica do you want to talk about this?''

Distractedly she answers. " No Jack I don't wish to talk about the fact that my husband. Helped that thieving con artist escape her punishment all these years. And then didn't say anything when she wormed her way back into our lives. Now could you please leave I'm very busy.'' Erica asks in a polite controlled tone. Her head never leaving the letter she has in hand.

" Oh, I see so you wanted Frankie to die is that it? Because I was under the assumption that you were starting to like her.'' Jack responds also in a calm tone.

" No I liked Mickie but it appears that I too was conned. And of course I did not want Frankie to be dead. I wouldn't wish that on anyone Jack. But I do not want her near my daughter or my grandaughter.'' Erica replies hatred growing in her voice as she realizes more and more Frankie wasn't lying when she said she loved Bianca.

" She was always Frankie Erica the only thing different was her name and the fact that Vanessa was not forcing her to con Bianca. My god she saved two lives by sacrificing eight years of her own. Does that not get through to you in any way. Then she took a bullet for our daughter. And as far Miranda goes she's got Frankie wrapped around her finger. Anything that kid wants she gets her.'' Jack reasons.

" Have you considered Jack that, that too is just a con Frankie doesn't care about anyone but herself.''

" Not for one second Erica Frankie isn't that kind of person anymore. Don't deny it either you've seen the change in her too now that you know who she is. Have you seen anything in her behavior to even suggest she was less than sincere?''

Erica is taken aback by these words she hadn't thought about it. She was busy being mad at Frankie to really focus on her good deeds.

" Bianca likes me I didn't ask for that and whats more she likes me for me. Which believe me suprises me just as much as it does you.''

Then another flash.

" Frankie why are you sounding like my mom?'' Bianca asks leaning in close to Frankie at the table.

Frankie looking up at Bianca then Erica and back. " Well could it be maybe because we both care about you. The one thing we *do* have in common we don't want you to get hurt. ''

" Frankie you don't have to do this.''

" It's okay I want to. You've had alot of stress lately and well you need a time out. I accept your apology miss Kane.'' Frankie says in one prepared breath.

Then back to the present Erica shakes her head as though clearing her thoughts.

" You were thinking about how she changed too weren't you Erica that look just now you know she loves our daughter.''

" Absolutely not I was doing no such thing Jack.'' Erica tries to deny.

Jack is becoming frustrated with the woman he loves. " Dammit Erica you are so stubborn sometimes. You are just like her.'' He blurts out.

" Jack!'' Erica scorns.

" Oh, Jack nothing you are just like her you're both stubborn, bullheaded, resiliant and over protective. Whats worse you both you're right all the time. Jack rambles then taking a calming breath. Look you may not like her but its not your life its Bianca's and I want to see her happy if thats with Frankie then so be it. Promise one thing Erica.''

" Well I'd say after all that asking me to promise you something is a little out there. Wouldn't you?'' Erica states back hands now on her hips and standing.

" No...because it's really less of a promise to me and more of a promise to our daughter. Promise you won't do anything underhanded or sneaky to get Frankie run out of town or whatever else you might have in mind to do to her?''

Erica hesistantly weighs the facts in her mind. She knows she has to say she does or risk ruining her marriage again.

Nodding her head once. " I promise now can you please leave I need to be alone Jack.''

" Yes I understand this is a shock. And believe if I could have told you I would have. Know this though it is the only secret I've ever kept from you or Bianca. Jack tells her. Now I'll see you at home later?''

" Yes of course I'm not leaving you Jack. I know you had to stay silent because of the FBI I haven't totally lost it. Now bye.'' Erica replies.

" Bye darling.'' Jack says as he leaves. Once outside. " There is no way she'll keep that promise. She is too mad to.'' He says to himself warily.

Back inside the building. An idea strikes Erica she picks up her office phone and dials. " Hello, yes I know it's late I need to change the show for tommorow ahuh I'm going to...''

Scene fades.

*********************

" Leo you have a time lapse form of amnesia. It means you're remembering in stages of years. You could be in one year for a matter of weeks in your mind then in another the next as you regain everything.'' Maggie explains.

" How long before I can remember everything Mags?''

" I'd say that depends on you. The more open minded you are about what people tell you about yourself. The more you want to remember in your own mind the quicker it'll go probably.''

" Whats with the probably? Do you think I might not ever remember?''

" No thats not what I mean. It's just that theres no actual date I can give you. It's not like with pregnancy or cancer or tonselitis. I can only say that you'll probably remember in time.'' Maggie answers reassuringly.

" I see so can anyone point me in the direction of a place to stay?'' Leo asks still not remembering everything there was in this town.

" Uhhmm..I got this one Maggie. Greenlee says taking leo by the arm. We'll see ya' tomorrow at the hospital.''

" Okay Greenlee bye Leo.''

" Whoa wait a minute. Binx will you come tomorrow morning I could really use a friend there.''

" Yeah, sure Leo oh and here is my phone number just in case you need to talk before then.'' Bianca says scribbling her phone number down on a small piece of paper and handing it to Leo.

" K, thanks bye.''

" Bye Leo.''

" Go easy on my cousin Greenlee he probably doesn't remember you that well. Not that I blame him for that.'' Maggie smarts.

" Oh, haha we can seek another doctors opinion you know.''

" Don't you dare.'' Maggie gets out before they leave.

********************

" Wow, I don't believe it he's alive. Kendall says after it's just Maggie, Opal and Bianca in the house. How are you doin' Binx?''

" Okay I guess I mean I'm ecstatic Leo's alive. But I have some other things on my mind at the same time.''

" Bianca look this..this has always been my sisters way of dealing with tough stuff. I'm sure she'll come around when she's ready. Erica did run her through the ringer.''

" I know Maggie. Bianca sighs warily. I just wish she could learn to deal with it with me.''

" Hey, if anyone can get my sister to open up. I'm sure it's you thats one of the things I always loved about you. People tend to trust you enough to open up.'' Maggie says trying to comfort the woman she loved and lost...to her sister.

" Thanks Maggie. But you don't have to explain her to me. I think I'm gonna go home now and go to bed.'' Bianca says as she walks out the door. " Thanks Opal for everything.''

" It's no problem Bianca dear. If Frankie gets too stubborn just let me know and I'll kick her behind for ya'.'' Opal replies.

" I'll do that Opal.'' Bianca smiles. " See you later guys.''

" Bye Binx.''

" Yeah, Later Bianca.'' Maggie replies.

Once Bianca is out the door.

" Well I think I'll be going too. Bye Opal, Bye Kendall.''

" I think I'll head out myself Opal I need to get home and check on the baby and Spike.'' Kendall says having less than good words to exchange with Maggie.

" Okay, see ya'll later. '' Opal says.

When everyone is gone Ava comes down the stairs.

" I'm staying here again tonight aren't I Opal?''

" I believe so Ava. I take it you heard the goin's on?''

" Yes, Opal I did. Mickie is really this Frankie chick who tried to con Bianca, But fell for her instead and ended up rolling over on her aunt who was really a drug dealer? And Erica hates her right?'' Ava asks confusedly.

" I think ya' pretty much got it. Erica is going to be a force to be reconned with come tomorrow. Frankie would do good to dig herself a hole and stay there for the duration.'' Opal tells the young woman.

" Man this is just like the movies. It's all so exciting Frankie fakes her death to save the woman she loves and then comes back with a new name and new life. To sweep her off her feet and...''

" And meet with a possible date with doom when Erica gets her claws in her. Now stop narratin' and we'll get something to eat.'' Opal tells her.

" Yes ma'am. Ava replies. So where is Frankie anyway?''

" Well that I don't know. I'm sure she'll surface sometime.''

*******************************

Setting: Late evening.

Location: Pine Valley Park.

Frankie lays across a park bench playing with her keys thinking almost brooding. When a familiar figure aproaches her.

" What do you want?'' Frankie asks annoyedly as she sits up.

" I want to talk to my sister but she's making it really difficult. God you never changed did you? You've always been this way. Something gets tough you just runaway to be alone.'' Maggie says back.

" Hey thats how this whole family works in case you don't remember sis. Let me refresh your memory we get somewhere things go wrong we run somewhere else and start all over again. '' Frankie stands and gets up in Maggie's face.

" I see, so you came back here told us all you're alive and managed to get Bianca to keep you. Though I'm not sure why right now. Only to get upset and leave because things got tough thats life Frankie.'' Maggie says getting right back in her sisters face.

" Well duh, Like I didn't know that Maggie. Frankie says setting back down on the bench lowering her head. But thats not what I'm gonna do. I just needed to clear my head I fought too long and hard to be the person Bianca needs. I'm not going to up and leave her now.''

" Well Frankie you really have a funny way of showing her that. She was really upset and you just left her even when she asked you to stay. And it's gonna take alot more than flowers to get over this.''

" I know that. I didn't wanna run out on her but I thought its what we needed after the whole thing with her mom.''

'' Let me give you some advice as someone who went out with Bianca screwed up then lost her. If she had wanted space she'd have asked for it right now she needs you. To just be there I mean she got you back and Leo and told her mother about you and she.....'''

" Maggie! I get the point already man, Frankie shakes her head. I knew you still loved her I didn't know you were still in love with her.''

" No Frankie I'm not I've just known Bianca for a really long the month after you 'died' actually. And I know what she's going through you pulled like a Hudini on us all.''

" Yeah, Frankie laughs. I bet Erica didn't see that one comin' either.''

Maggie can't help but be amused and laughs too. Having long been the center of Erica's irritations herself. " You're a..probably right did you see that look on her face when you told her your name?''

" Yeah, I didn't know wether she was going to yell and throw stuff or just go quiet. '' Frankie chuckles. " I have waited eight years to think of something that would floor Erica Kane.''

" You aren't the only one to think about doing that. Maggie replies then more seriously. Frankie?''

" Thats my name..what?'' Frankie asks with a lowered head.

" When did you..We never really got the chance to talk about this but how did you...'' Maggie tries to find a good way to ask the question that has been in her head since she found out her sister was gay.

" Oh, you mean how did I know that I was gay right?''

Maggie in an embaressed tone. '' Yes.''

" Come on Mags do we have to talk about that stuff?'' Frankie groans. " How did you? Because last time I checked you were into guys.''

" Bianca made me realize but I think I always knew in a way. I answered you now you owe me. Family rules you give an answer you get one in return. Nothing for free.''

" Okay, okay why did you have to use our rule on me like that? Alright I'll tell you some other time I gotta go.'' Frankie gets up suddenly uncomfortable and clearly not wanting to address the subject.

Maggie stands grabs hold of Frankie's sleeve and turns her around. " No thats not how this is gonna work everyone telling you stuff about themselves and then you not talking and pushing us away.. dammit Frankie. Now we're both adults and you already know I don't have a problem with it. So tell me come on just between you and I.''

Frankie tilts her head from side to side. " Look I don't know always I guess.''

" Thats not an answer Frankie there had to be a time you realized that you were different from everyone else at school or the parties you went to all the time or something?''

" Ughh..k, look to know that then I have to tell you alot more. ''

" Well I'm off for the night and nobody is around so start talkin'?'' Maggie says setting back down on the bench.

Frankie remains standing beginning to pace as she did whenever faced with something that made her nervous. " What do you know about when I ran away ? What did they tell you?''

" Our parents you mean? Frankie nods. Uhmm...let me see they said that you hadn't come home from that party yet and that they found a letter on the counter stating that you were 'out of here'.'' Maggie tells her sister.

" K, Frankie breathes. So I'm starting from scratch here. Thats not what happened I didn't runaway Mags. I mean think about it. I partied, I partied hard and often I don't deny it. But did you ever know me not to come home? Maggie gives her a look. After the next day. Wasn't it strange to you that I left a note and ran off with less than nothing. My books,cd's my guitar?''

" I forgot that, you used to wake us all up at three in the morning with that thing. Most people sleep off a hangover Frankie they don't make more noise.''

" Funny I wasn't 'hungover' as you say I was stoned. Beside the point wasn't it odd to you?''

" I guess..yeah when I think about it why?'' Maggie asks looking confused.

" Figure it out you are supposed to be the smart one of us.'' Frankie brushes off.

" Well I would if you'd stop running in circles and cut to the chase.'' Maggie says back.

" I didn't leave Maggie mom and dad threw me out that direct enough for ya'?'' Frankie states shoving her hands in her pants pockets.

" What? Why?'' Maggie asks head spinning from the new information.

" Remember Kim?''

" Kim..Kim..oh that girl you were always around yeah why?''

" Think about it Mags?''

Maggie was not accustomed to thinking about this stuff where her sisters life was involved because she never knew her that well. Then it hit her.'' Oh, you mean you and her were. Maggie's eyes go wide. Oh, she was..''

" Say it she was my girlfriend genius.'' Frankie smarts.

" So you ran away to be with her? Wait that doesn't make sense you werent exactly the emotional type.''

" Thanks alot, No I wasn't then. Frankie replies. Now the story isn't over you see. You know how mom would run off in the middle of the day to get a fix?''

" How can I forget. Maggie replies remembering growing up with an addict for a mom. Go on.''

" Well she went out and she was always gone for atleast three or four hours. So I figured it was safe to invite Kim over. Long story short mom and dad both came home found her and I 'together'. Started cursing at me and calling me names I began to pack my bag. And thats when 'daddio' hit me and everything went starts to sniffle and wipe tears away angrily. I woke up in a ditch with my bag and a napsack with a note clipped onto it. It basically said that I wasn't their kid anymore. I was a terrible person blah,blah,blah stay away from you so you didn't catch it.''

Maggie is trying desperately to wrap her mind around all of this. But all she can manage is to hug her sobbing sister.

" Frankie I wouldn't have hated you. I can't believe they did that to you and you never told me.'' Frankie uncomfortably breaks the hug.

" Of course I didn't tell you. I didn't want anyone to know, ever. Then well I spent like every single day and night feeling horrible. Sleeping in hotel lobbies and on park benches. Scrounging for food and I got here. Erica did the whole 'run me over thing' and Bianca walked right through those exam room doors. ''

" You mean you were into her from the first time you saw her Frankie?'' Maggie asks.

" Pretty much she was pretty hot in that purple silk shirt and that short skirt of hers. Like I could resist.'' Frankie grins evily.

" Oh, my god Frankie too much info.'' Maggie hides her face with her hand.

" What first you beg me to 'open up' and 'share feelings' now you want me to stop?'' Frankie replies clearly enjoying making her sister squirm.

" You are impossible Bianca was right. See I have to ask her because I don't really know this person I call sister. She's got this whole seclusion thing going on. It's really annoying.'' Maggie says half teasing.

" Yeah, yeah, yeah If you think I'm that bad form an intervention why don't ya'? I can see it now you and Bianca with large picket signs parading in front of my apartment. The landlord'll have me evicted then I can live on the streets again yippee.'' Frankie exaggerates.

" No I don't think we'll make picket signs but... There is something I wanna do now that you're alive again.''

" What beat me at poker? It's no good you'll lose Mags you could never keep a straight face. Everytime you got a good hand you'd start laughing.''

" No goofball I wanna get to know my sister retorts. I promise I can't catch anything from you. They laugh. So what do you say ?''

" Ohh, alright but no more uncomfortable questions. Ask me things like hey what kind of music do you like? Or what do you hate most in this world? '' Frankie tells her sister.

" Okay, Hey what kinda music do you like?'' Maggie jokes.

" All kinds mostly Punk and alternative.''

" I should've known it's loud and filled with angst.'' Maggie says rolling her eyes.

" Tis to laugh Mags. But I gotta run so lets save this bonding stuff for later. '' Frankie says going to walk away. She turns as if giving into a need inside of her. She had always wanted to be like real sisters this was her time to step up. " Hey sis?''

" Yeah.''

" Wanna like get a pizza tomorrow or somethin' ?'' Frankie asks in a barely audible tone.

" Yeah, I'd like that alot actually. Maggie replies. Frankie good luck with Bianca and everything. I really haven't ever seen her so happy.''

" Tell no one but I haven't ever been so happy either. It's all her fault I think I'll sue.'' Frankie quips. " Hey do you want me to walk you to your car? I do have a gun and mace you know.. legally.''

" Uhh..sure why not. You know I'm seeing someone?''

" Let me guess Kelly the lab tech right?'' Frankie replies as they walk to hers and Maggie's cars.

" Yeah, she said she asked you out once too. She thinks you're funny, I think you're just a big pain.'' Maggie teases.

" You know I could consider that verbally assaulting an officer sis. I can arrest you for that.''

" You are really into this cop thing huh? Sorta like that decoder ring.''

" You remember that ? Please don't remind me I was such a dork.'' Frankie says as they reach their cars.

" No you were a huge dork. Frankie I would've helped you, you know if you had come to me. With whatever made you desperate enough to work for Vanessa. I won't ask because I dont wanna push but when you need someone to talk to I'm here.'' Maggie tells her long lost sister trying to patch things between them.

" No offense Mags but talking not really my thing. '' Frankie says then seeing the look of sadness in her sisters eyes. " If I ever do feel like talking I'll talk to you. Now we're here you're safe I'm goin' home.''

" K, bye sis.'' They both drive away in different directions.

********************************

Setting: early morning.

Location: Frankies apartment.

Frankie is dressed in grey sweats and a smoke blue old t-shirt as she lies in bed with the radio on. Thinking about how she could make up for not having stayed around when Bianca needed her. She was in part mad at herself emotion wasn't something Frankie was used to showing someone. Letting people in was very hard to do.

When a knock at the door pryes her out of her thoughts. She runs out to answer it. Quickly opening the door. " Bianca? She says excitedly then a look of dissapointment crosses her face. Oh, it's you.''

" Nice to see you too pal.'' Josh says walking in.

" What are you here for?''

" I'm here to ask you something Mi.. or I guess I should start calling you Frankie right?''

" That'd be nice it is my name. I'm guessing Babe told you about the whole scene at Fusion then.'' Frankie replies.

" Yep, and she said you and Maggie sat on Greenlee nicely done.''

" Thanks so what did you want to ask me. No I'm not conning Bianca yes I do love her. So if those were your questions then...''

" Frankie whoa stop, Josh holds up his hands in mock surrender, you aren't even close. ''

" Well in that case sit down and would you like some coffee?''

" Sure three sugars.''

" Dude have you heard of diabetese? '' Frankie jokes.

" Hahha funny. Josh says as they sit down at the table in the kitchen. So whats up?''

Frankie hands Josh his cup of coffee and takes a sip of hers. " You tell me. You were going to ask me something?''

" Uhh..yeah Josh says nervously. I don't..I don't know how to ask this. Because I always assumed that it would be a guy but Babe assured me that this was a normal thing these days.''

" Josh are you proposing? I have to decline for my heart belongs to your sister.'' Frankie teases.

" Again you're a real riot. Josh says drolly. No I wanted to ask you to be my best man...best person or whatever they call it when it's a girl instead of a guy. I don't have alot of really close male friends and you're my best buddy so...''

" One question does this get me outta the dress thing?'' Frankie asks casually.

" Babe said you'd ask that. She told me to tell you not on your life. She already has the colors picked out for your and Bianca's dresses sorry pal.'' Josh laughs.

Frankie thinks this over for a minute. " Oh, alright but the second that your union is over with I'm wearing pants. And I'm going to throw you a bachelor party and make you wear one.''

" Thank you Frankie. I was kinda nervous there for a minute.''

" Chill out Josh you're turning colors. Are you getting cold feet I mean the weddings not even until september right?'' Frankie asks.

" Yeah, it's just well I, I've never been married before.'' Josh replies taking in a deep breath.

" Well makes two of us and tell your soon to be wife. Not to try and pull something like getting B and I hitched too. Just so you guys can get the group rate.'' Frankie jokes dryly.

" Will do. Why? don't you want to marry my sister??''

" Not you too I get enough of this from Bianca. We're not ready Josh we got alot to work out first. I mean we just told your mom last night. I'm suprised Erica hasn't called you on it. She's probably plotting on how to kill me for real.''

" Oh, man I didn't know you told Erica.I guess that explains the bruise. She didn't take it well huh?''

" Boy, theres an understatement. Frankie says back. What all have you been told about me if anything?''

" Uhhmm.....Lets see you were sent here to con my sister. And you fell for her instead so you went to the cops and now you're here? Is that all?'' Josh raises an eyebrow.

" Well not exactly thats the short version. Frankie pauses and stands up to pace. Okay, do you know how your sister and I met?''

" No if you're reffering to the first time I don't have a clue. Wanna elaborate?''

****************************

Meanwhile at the hospital.

Bianca walks through the doors and over to where Greenlee is standing. " Hey wheres Leo?''

" You missed it they wheeled him off to be examined already. Now we wait on Maggie to get back with him.''

" Oh, I see sorry I missed seeing Leo before. Bianca says sitting down in a waiting room chair. Is this weird for you too?''

" I think it passed weird when I found out that Frankie and Leo were alive in the same day. Greenlee states also seating herself. I know it's not my buisness and I'm probably the last person on earth you want to talk to about this. But how are you doing?''

Bianca is touched that the very person who had blackmailed her and made her the brunt of her insults for years. Was actually genuinely concerned. But at the same time supicious. " Do you care how I am Greenlee or is this just you being nice for Leo?''

" Fine forget it, forget I even asked. Why should you believe me I mean I only understand exactly what you're going through right now. My lost love is back and so is yours both from the assumed dead list.''

Long pause Bianca takes a deep breath. '' Fine I'll tell you how I'm feeling.'' She says needing to unload on someone. Granted this was an unlikely someone to tell.

******************************

Back at Frankies place.

" Whoa, so you guys met the same way twice. Except the first time it was Erica with her car.'' Josh says amusedly.

" Yeah, and this time it was your sister with scalding hot coffee that should come with a Bio-hazard sign on the label.'' Frankie smarts.

" And Erica hates you because of everything that happened that night and all the rest that followed.'' Josh says amazed at the new insight. " So thats why she slapped you that night at the police station because she thought you were..well you?''

" Pretty much it's cool. I can deal Josh but well, I kinda made an ass of myself last night when I ran off. And I don't how to make it up to Bianca.'' Frankie says depressively leaning back in her chair.

" You'll find a way. My sister loves you it's not something she takes lightly she'll come around. But you better be good to her or else.'' Josh says waving a pointed finger.

" Yes sir, Frankie salutes. I don't wanna hurt Bianca at all. I want to figure out a way to apologize it's just..hard thats all. Saying I'm sorry to anyone doesn't come easy for me...Before Frankie can finish her cell phone rings. She takes it out of her pocket and answers.

" Hello?''

" Frankie it's me Opal. Look I dont have time for small talk but have you turned on your tv?''

" No Opal. Why? Whats up there a car crash on the bridge or somethin'?'' Frankie asks bewildered.

" Worse much worse turn on the New Beginnings show?''

" Okay, I hate talk shows. Frankie says changing to the proper channel and then when the show comes on she goes wide eyed and flaming.

"Today on New Beginnings we are showcasing families who have been the victims of con artists. And they're stories of survival and growth through these tragedies. Some of these people have even lost family members to gold-diggers and identity thieves. Here is one particular stor....'' Frankie and Josh look on and Frankie switches off the tv irritated. " Opal thanks for the heads up gotta go.'' She hangs up.

" Erica has lost whats left of her brain. Josh I gotta go lock up before ya' leave? ''

" Go where?''

" To see Bianca and to give your mom what she wants.''

" This can't be good.'' Josh says drolly shaking his head.

**********************

Frankie is in her car and driving as she dials her cell.

Bianca's phone rings at the hospital, " Hello? ''

" Bianca are you where theres a tv?''

" Yeah Frankie why?''

" You wouldn't believe me if I told you. Turn on to your moms show.'' Frankie tells her preturbed.

" Okay, Greenlee turn on channel two?''

" Uhh..sure.'' Greenlee reaches up and changes the waiting room tv station. Just as Maggie walks in. They all stand in amazement as they watch Erica Kane and her con artist special.

'' I understand this story all too well myself Yolanda for I too and my daughter were the victims of a con artist.''

" Oh, no Erica is not doing this to my sister..again and getting away with it.'' Maggie states angrily crossing her arms.

" No you're right Maggie shes not. Lets go. '' Bianca says as they start walking She has completely forgotten about Frankie on the other end.

" Wait where? Bianca? anybody? still on the phone here.. Hey!'' Frankie calls out.

" Oh, god Frankie I'm sorry I forgot you were there.''

" Love you too.'' Frankie replies drolly.

" Listen do you know where my moms studio is?''

" Yeah why? What are we gonna do storm the place?''

" Exactly we're gonna give my mom a con artist. That is if you still remember how to be droll and sarcastic but manage to get your point across.'' Bianca replies teasingly.

" Come on thats my middle name but you forgot withdrawn and vague.'' Frankie jokes back.

" No I didn't Maggie just said the same thing. If I didn't know any better I'd say you were twins or something?''

" Funny Bianca. I'll see you in ten.''

*******************

Minutes later New Beginnings lot.

Frankie gets out of her car and Bianca exits hers aswell with Maggie alongside her. Before Bianca can say anything Frankie wraps her arms around the dark haired woman.

" Bianca I'm sorry I ditched on you. I thought you might not want me around after everyting I'm..I'm so sorry. I won't be that stupid again I swear.''

" It's alright Frankie I know.''

" I'll still never understand how you can keep forgiving me? And loving me and I'm such a..''

" I don't either. Bianca teases. Now are we ready to set mom strait?''

" Lead the way my lady.'' Frankie says opening the glass door for Bianca and Maggie.

" Erica 's going to pay this time.''

" Right there with ya' Frankie.''

" Dear lord you're both insane. Come on heres the stage entry door as soon as they come back on the air go for it?'' Bianca instructs Frankie.

" Bianca? You're giving me permission to diss your mom on national television?'' Frankie asks frowning.

" One time and one time only. She's doing it to you just make sure you prove the point you aren't conning me while you're doing it. Got it Frankie.''

" I've never loved you more than I do right now. Frankie says grinning evilly she kisses Bianca quickly and runs out. Erica oh, Erica..'' She taunts.

" How did you get on set? Ladies and gentlemen this is the woman who conned my daughter Frankie Stone.''

The crowd boo's of course.

" Oh, shut up all of you. I didn't con anyone least of all your daughter so stuff it Erica. Frankie yells out then taking a relaxed breath. God I've waited eight years to say that. If anyone stole anything away from anyone. It was your daughter.''

More booing.

" Really Frankie I'm all ears what did my daughter steal from your gold-digging fingers?''

Frankie prepares herself mentally she knows she has to yell loud enough for everyone to hear over the crowd. " My heart! The crowd goes silent. My heart Erica thats what you're daughter stole and she kept it all this time too. Problem is now I've been without it so long I don't know how to use it anymore. So she gave me hers to replace it''. She says looking out to the curtains and nudging her head.

Bianca gracefully walks out and over to Frankie in tears.'' Oh, Frankie that was so beautiful.''

" It's true. Frankie responds then turning to the audiance. I went my whole life never feeling loved or appreciated by anyone. Not even my family, I did alot of stupid things I dropped out of school, I partied and got high, I always said I've just got a heart of Stone like my name. Then I met Bianca and She did something no one else ever did before...She cared..she cared enough to love someone like me. I know I was a loser and a user and I'm not now or will I ever be good enough for her. But that doesn't mean that I'm conning her. It just means that she loves me and I don't know why. But I love her too more than I ever thought I could anyone.''

There isn't a dry eye in the house as the crowd applauds. As Frankie now has tears of her own falling Bianca hugs her tightly. " I've never cried so much my whole life ya' know.'' she tells Bianca head on her shoulder.

" Yeah, Frankie I know. Bianca sniffles. I'm so proud of you.''

Frankie pulls away feeling the eyes of the crowd makes her uncomfortable with showing so much affection. Bianca just smiles amused at this.

" Don't clap for her she's evil she's out to get my daughter. Erica pleads turning to Bianca. Surely you're not buying this are you? It's an act shes not capable of loving anyone.''

" Mom..Bought, sold, no refunds or exchanges. She's mine I'm hers thats it. did what she did because she loves me.'' Bianca self assuredly.

" I'll find a way to make you pay Mary-Francis Stone. You made us all worry and feel sorry for you. You are just like your name.'' Erica says threateningly seemingly disinterested that there are camera's rolling.

" Erica I think you need to cool down here. Maggie says walking out and throwing a picher of water on Erica. That oughta do it.'' She says dusting her hands off accomplishedly. " Hey guys we gotta go back to the hospital now..Leo's gonna have my head.''

" Thats my sister always the buzzkill. Okay, lets go bye miss Kane see you at well every family event from now 'til by the way you aren't that bad a dancer either. Just not as good as Bianca but maybe I'm predjudice.'' Frankie grins as she takes Bianca by the hand and they all three leave.

*********************

Opal's house. Ava and Opal have been watching the scene unfold on television.

Opal actually has tears dobbing her eyes with a tissue. '' That is the dumbest, funniest, most poorly planned, arrogant, romantic thing I've ever seen. Outside of a soap opera.'' She sniffs.

" Now whose the overly dramatic one. Frankie has no idea what she's gotten herself into. Erica's going to be furious with all of them. Bianca and included. And Erica's scary when she's mad like really scary.'' Ava says to Opal.

" No, Ava she's frightening but I think after the ice water bath she might cool off. Look closely can you see any of it turning to vapor and boilin' ?'' Opal jokes.

" Nope but I definately see the horns coming out of her head.'' Ava replies.

" I guess Jack's little speach didn't work, that means theres only one thing left to do.''

" What run far away?''

" No, time to call in the big guns Myrtle and I have to tell Erica how it is. So she doesn't threaten ruinin' her daughters life and her relatonship with her aswell. I hate sayin' it I really hate doin' it. But it's time to get tough. Opal tells the young woman. Now lets go to work. I'll figure my strategy out while I'm perming hair.''

" Oh, happy day.'' Ava says drolly.

" You've been takin' lessons from Frankie haven't ya'? Lets go.''

*******************************

Back at the hospital. Maggie, Frankie and Bianca walk into the waiting room together laughing.

" Well Leo and I caught the festivities on tv. I don't even Springer could've dreamed that up.''

" Thanks Greenlee we'll take that as a compliment.'' Bianca replies.

" So cousin Maggie am I like brain damaged or something you kinda' left me hangin' there?'' Leo asks.

" I looked over your reports and test results and as far as I can tell theres no permanent damage. From the fall off the cliff so you should regain your memeory in full. Just give it time and don't get frustrated. '' Maggie explains.

" Cool now can I get outta this chair or do I get to take it with me 'coz it's kinda' fun.'' Leo jokes.

" Stealing hospital property Leo I didn't know you returned back to your old ways. Welcome back 'cous.'' Frankie teases.

" Hahaha..Frankie always a riot. Leo says bemusedly. So can I Mags?''

'' Right back at ya'.''

" Yes you are free to go Leo but the chair has to stay remember to take it easy.'' Maggie answers.

" Darn I was gonna have Binx steal one we could race. Huh what do ya' say?''

Bianca laughs. " Sorry Leo I'm gonna have to pass you up on that. I have other plans.'' She says hintingly at Frankie.

" Oh, and do I like these plans of yours? Are you on another adrenaline high?'' Frankie asks waving a finger playfully.

" Yes I think I am. Now come on lets get outta here.'' Bianca says taking Frankie by the arm.

" Whoa okay. Frankie haults for a second. Mags I'll see you at Bj's for pizza and Leo I'll catcha later.''

" Bye 'Cous. Go easy on her Binx she just came back from the dead.''

" Ha..Funny Leo.''

" Bye sis see ya' at how about three?'' Maggie says.

" Fine with me I'll have to check with my advisor. Frankie looks at Bianca. Well advisor what do you say can I have pizza with my sister at three? Please, please.'' She plays.

" Yes, yes now come on.'' Bianca laughs.

" K, later Mags.''

"Bye.''

******************

Moments later at the beach in the exact spot where Bianca and Frankie met for breakfast the morning after. The day they first met.

" Hey I remember this place. I think. This was were you pouted because I teased you. The way you pouted was kinda' cute though.'' Frankie says looking around.

" Excuse me? No I wasn't pouting and you were...''

" I know 'infantilizing' you sorry.'' Frankie finishes holding her hands up in quotation marks.

" You're doing it again Frankie Stone.'' Bianca waves a teasing finger at her.

" So why here? If I was such terrible company that time.'' Frankie asks lost.

" Ahh.. I wanted to pick a spot we both used to meet away from my mother. And well this came to mind. Because as I remember I've got something that belongs to you. I've had it now for eight years didn't have it in me to wear it again. '' Bianca explains pulling something out of her purse.

" What is that my old tank top that I lent you. Which by the way you never gave back. I should really sue.''

" Frankie?''

" Yeah.''

" Shut up now.''

" Okay. Fine Bianca whats the gift?''

" This. Bianca holds up the heart shaped locket that her father gave her. Bianca had given it to Frankie before she 'died' all those years ago. I want to give it back to you now. ''

" Bianca I don't deserve it not after everything I put you through. You keep it. I busted it the last time you gave it to me. I..''

" Yeah and you also fixed it as I recall. Then for christmas you gave me your heart I thought about that last night. Now I understand why you gave me that necklace. It was to make up for breaking this one. They gave it back to me in the hospital after you 'died' and I asked who had it fixed they said no one. It was like that when they found it. So I knew you had done it...I was so mad at you Frankie then I was so sad...I..I couldn't ever put it back on. Because it belonged to you.'' Bianca explains tearing up again.

" I did have it fixed..for you, I never wanted to leave and I never wanted to cheat on you. But I still don't know how you can love me and your dad gave you that it's not mine to have Bianca.''

" Let me decide that for myself Frankie. Bianca like I said before I love you because you're honest and up front and you say it like it is. You don't care what people think, you don't pretend to like somebody if you don't. And because you're really beautiful but it's just a bonus. Also because you're more caring than you let on.'' She tells Frankie in almost the same words she did eight years ago.

''You aren't going to give up until I say yes are you?''

'' No.'' Bianca replies simply then Frankie lets her put the necklace on her.

" I guess I love you because you never give up and you think I'm smart and because you're so..Frankie blushes playing with the necklace. Beautiful. And you know you don't care what people say about me either.''

Then Bianca blushes. " You're right I don't care because I know it's a lie whatever it is.''

" Come here Biancala.'' Frankie says pulling the object of her affections close for a kiss. When they part they're lips linger. " God I missed that.''

" Frankie you never kissed me like that before.'' Bianca says raising an eyebrow.

" I know thats why I missed it. I never got to replies then thinking. One thing though how are we going to tell Miranda who I am? I mean she's gonna notice when you start calling me Frankie instead Mickie.''

" I guess well how would you like to be the one to do the honors. You're good with her I trust that you'll explain it to her understanding. Another suprise you're good with kids a little gruff but good.''

" That suprises you and me both..Are you sure you want me to tell her?'' Frankie asks.

" Yes positive Frankie.'' Bianca answers.

" Alright I'll try. Now come here again I'm making up for lost time.'' Frankie says pulling Bianca close once more.

************************

Awhile later at BJ's Maggie sits at a table waiting for Frankie to show up.

" Hey sis whats up?'' Frankie says walking up to her.

" Oh, the usual three trauma patients and a couple of ear infections with a suprise gastric bypass that didn't.''

" Oooh, ouch..Frankie winces. Sounds like you had an interesting day. Did you order yet?''

" Yeah, it's on its way. Sausage and mushroom right?'' Maggie asks recalling the pizza they had last shared long ago.

" Yep, So whats in the bag a rifle?'' Frankie asks curiously.

" No, Maggie prepares herself. Look don't think I'm total nut job. But I got you a sort of a belated birthday gift. To make up for all the ones I missed.''

" Mags I didn't get you anything. Besides I don't even celebrate my birthday anyway.'' Frankie says trying to sound casual.

" I know but humor me. And you can buy me a much more expensive gift later. To make up for the ones *you* missed.'' Maggie jokes.

" Okay when you put it like that. Gimme.'' Frankie says as Maggie hands over the bag.

" I hope you like'em it's all I could really remember you doing when we were kids. And well since you never grew up I figured they'd work.'' Maggie tells her sister.

" Oh, hey annograms and add-libbs and word search. Cool thanks. Wait whats this? Oooh, I don't have this. The complete works and stories of Edgar Allen Poe.'' Frankie reads aloud.

" Yeah, is it okay Bianca said you liked poetry.''

" It's awesome thanks Mags. Now I've got something to do on stakeout. I didn't even know they still made annygrams.'' Frankie states.

" I know it was really hard to find I had to go to this book store downtown Murphy's.''

" Now I know where to go when these run out. Frankie comments. Then theres a long awkward pause neither sister knows what to say to the other. Frankie gets tired of it and breaks the pause. You ice watered Erica Kane pretty cool. I didn't know ya' had it in ya'.''

" Little secret..Maggie leans close to whisper. Me either.'' They laugh.

" So when did you get so gutsy anyway?'' Frankie enquires knowing her sister was always the good one.

" Well I tell ya' if you knew me you'd know I was always that way. I just didn't get up in people's faces like you. Unless they got in mine first.'' Maggie answers teasingly.

" Yes well as Bianca would say it's my 'defense mechanism'. Frankie comes back. So what about that Kelly girl are you into her? Is there potential huh sis?'' She asks teasing.

Maggie blushes and laughs nervously at her sisters question. '' We've been on like two dates Frankie. God I'm talking about my love life with you of all people this is unexpected.'' She says thinking outloud.

" What you mean you don't wanna talk with your older sister about your *girlfriend*.'' Frankie ghasps sarcastically.

" Shes not my girlfriend.. yet. And you're only two minutes older than me. Don't pull that one.'' Maggie says back.

" Yeah, yeah whatever. Frankie shruggs then grins as if a thought hits her. Come on Mags don't hold out on me. I wanna know do you like her.'' She taunts.

" God, You are having way too much fun with this. Maggie states. Yes alright yes I do *like* her. ''

" Ohhh...Okay now that I know that I can do something.''

'' What?''

" Maggie and Kelly sittin' in a tree..Before Frankie can go any farther Maggie swats her arm. Owww...''

" Thats what you get you jerk.''

Frankie cackles wickedly. " Hey, I was merely teasing you. But just the fact that you took it so serious means you really do like her. ''

" Okay, foods here.'' Maggie says looking for a way to change the subject. '' I'm starved I haven't eaten anything but a bagel all day.''

" Me too well all I had was coffee and a power bar. Bianca says I'm a bottomless pit.'' Frankie comments.

" You kinda are Frankie.'' They laugh.

The sisters eat and talk about everything they've both been doing in last few years. Then as they are close to the end of the pizza Maggie gets a wierd look on her face.

" Whats the look for sis heartburn or something?''

" No not heartburn Frankie. It's just this is weird I mean all this time I thought you were..''

" Turning up daisies in a cemetary plot.'' Frankie remarks like it's nothing.

" You have a terrible sense of humor. But yes. And now you're sitting here and we're talking and eating pizza like it never happened. I know you don't like emotional stuff but when I got the call that you were dead. It was like I lost a limb. I was so sad and..Maggie fights back tears as she continues. I felt like I never got to know you and now I..we have a second chance and I'm just really happy about it.''

" Geez Mags I thought you would be furious with me for doing what I did. If you even cared at all. Now I made you cry I can't stand to see people cry.'' Frankie confesses.

'' Of course I cared Frankie you're my sister I love you.'' Maggie responds without realizing what shes said.

Frankie doesn't no how to process this the only person who ever told her that was Bianca. Her whole life she'd felt alone this was the last thing she expected from her sister.

" Frankie are you okay?'' Maggie asks seeing the look of displacement on the womans face.

Frankie begins to cry before she even realizes it. " You know what I can't do this. I think I'm gonna go. Bye.'' She says and quickly runs out the door.

" Frankie.'' Maggie calls out as she runs after her. She catches up and turns Frankie around to see a tear soaked face.

" Hey, now look it's not a big deal I'm your sister I'm sort of supposed to care about you.''

" Yes it is a big deal. Because the only other person that says that to me is Bianca. And for a member of my family to say it to me well thats alot to take in. Frankie sniffs Maggie hands her a tissue out of her bag. Thanks you really are handy with the kleenex.''

" Well it's good to know I'm handy for something. Look it's not conditional you don't have to say it back or anything. Just know that now you have two people that care about you.''

" Alright but I think you ought to know that..that I..ya' know.. you too sis.'' Frankie gets out in one deep breath. " We aren't like gonna hug now are we?''

" No, we don't have to hug Frankie. Thank you I know what you mean by that jumble of nouns you just used.'' They laugh.

" Now what do you say we go back and pay the bill. Unless you wanna do the dishes.'' Maggie suggests.

" Sounds good.''

*******************************

Later that evening Bianca's apartment.

'' Hey, gorgeous is the kid here?'' Frankie greets smiling.

" Yes she is, she's in her room I'll go get her.''

" No, it's cool I'll go. Unless you've changed your mind and you don't want me to..''

" No I do, go on.'' Before either of them can say any more to one another Miranda comes running out of her bedroom. With her puppy by her side tail wagging.

" Mickie! Mickie! ''

" Hey! kid whats the hurry?'' Frankie asks.

" I taught Teddy to shake hands.''

" You did well I gotta see that. I know how about you and me take Teddy for a walk in the park and you can show me?'' Frankie suggests.

" Okay, oh..Mommy can I?'' Miranda asks excitedly.

" Yes you can. Go on get Teddy his leash.''

Miranda jets off to her room to get the dog and his leash.

Bianca just smiles wide. '' Have her back before dinner and maybe you can have some too.''

" You mean if I'm a good dog?'' Frankie smarts.

" Yes now shake hands, Frankie does Bianca laughs. Now kiss me.'' Frankie does.

" I didn't know that was a dog trick?''

" It's not..hey Miranda mind Mickie while you're gone and you She points at Frankie. No sweets.''

" What was that last part I don't think I heard Miranda did you hear something?''

Miranda grinning wide shakes her head no.

" Come on lets go kid.'' Frankie says taking the dog leash. '' Want a horse ride to the elevator?'' With that Miranda climbs on Frankie's back. Whoa I need to work out more see ya' in a few.''

" Okay no sweets I mean it.'' Bianca insists through laughter.

" I still can't hear you.'' Frankie sing songs as she and Miranda board the elevator.

They wave at Bianca With that they're gone.

________________________________________________________

STay Tuned next time to see how Miranda reacts to the news Frankie has for her. Somebody's getting hurt and someones starting trouble in little ol' Pine Valley find out who in.....

TRFS Chapters 11-13