9. part 1 of 2...
Sam sat at her desk, one leg drawn under her in her chair, as she scrolled through the images on her laptop, again. As if one more review would give that fresh hell any clearer resolution. She sighed deep, still stunned that so much could change in just one night.
After leaving Coop's, Sam showed Spinelli to their new office where he immediately began setting up their server, off-site backup, new laptops, printers and phone system. Three hours later all cables had been run and concealed, software installed, firewalls established and tested. McCall Investigations was wired and wireless.
While Spin set up the network, Sam made an anonymous call to General Hospital and learned Elizabeth was on the swing shift from 3pm-11pm. She also opened a case file, researched her mark and completed paperwork as if it were any other job. Even though she didn't really expect to find anything, she knew it would make Micheal feel better when she showed him how seriously she'd taken his business.
Spin finished up around 10pm and they'd decided to get in position in case L!z left a little early. Sam's Harley wasn't exactly ideal for stakeouts, so they'd taken Spinelli's van. He'd fitted the back with every state of the art piece of equipment known to man. It put police and FBI versions to shame. Spin had even made use of the luggage rack on top to conceal the antennas for the high-powered radio equipment. It was a sweet setup for surveillance. Sam would have preferred a less flashy color scheme more like an ordinary cable installer's van, but Spinelli was so proud of his ride she didn't have the heart to mention it.
Spin ran Elizabeth's name through DMV to locate the make, model, color and license of her car. He then ran her information through the hospital's employee database to determine what lot security assigned her for parking. They determined there was only one gate open at night, so Spin copped a watchful spot across the street while Sam shadowed L!z to her car to ensure she didn't leave the hospital some other way.
Sure enough at 11:11pm Elizabeth's 2006 Sky Blue Pearl Toyota Camry XLE V6 exited the garage making a left on Main in the opposite direction of her home and Sam kissed her fingers and held them high to the sky with a wish to nail the nurse with something good. It was good alright. Actually it was bad, really bad, and Sam wasn't sure what to do now. She wasn't sure what to expect, if anything, when Micheal came to her, but she certainly hadn't been prepared for what she found.
Spin drove. It was good practice and Sam knew the nurse was probably too inexperienced to spot a tail. They followed casually behind Elizabeth for an hour before she finally reached her destination three towns over. It was a typical roadside hotel. Sam directed Spin to park across the street in the darkness between two streetlights and watched the events unfold as Spin hit record on the video.
Sam zoomed in to capture the photos as Elizabeth turned on the interior light of her car. She watched the nurse pull out a large tube and apply a generous amount of the substance to her mouth. Sam and Spin were momentarily blinded by the glare when the light hit her lips afterward.
Elizabeth exited her vehicle and pulled her coat tight across her chest with a nervous glance around the otherwise empty parking lot before stalking across it in high heels. She avoided the office in the lobby and made her way up an exterior staircase to a door halfway down the corridor then knocked. The only sound in the van was of the rapid fire of Sam's camera.
She had photos of a silhouette of a man, taller than Elizabeth, opening the door. The interior lights of the room were dimmed and the light outside the door was broken, only offering Sam a generic description of an average height caucasian male late twenties to mid-thirties with dark short hair and an athletic build. Sam watched in one part shock and the other disgust as Elizabeth rushed into the man's arms and proceeded to shove her tongue down his throat. Hard as they were to stomach, Sam had those pictures and video as well.
Thirty minutes passed and Sam had a feeling the nurse wouldn't be leaving anytime soon. She grabbed a tracking device from one of the field kits and tagged Elizabeth's vehicle while they waited. She wasn't sure what was going on, but she knew the investigation had only just begun. She owed it to Micheal and to Jason not to give up until she'd uncovered every one of L!z's sordid secrets.
Spin hacked the hotel's system and determined the room was rented to a Dr. Steven Webber. A quick search showed him to be Elizabeth Webber's brother and, while his photograph sort of fit the man Sam witnessed pulling Elizabeth into the room, she doubted brother and sister greeted each other by groping genitals while locked in a sloppy tongue duel. It was obviously a feeble attempt by the nurse to cover her tracks.
While Spin ran all the plates parked in the hotel parking lot and surrounding street, Sam did her best to make sense of things. It appeared Elizabeth was having an affair. How long had she been seeing the other man? Was it possible he was the father of Elizabeth's baby and not Jason? Why would L!z choose to marry Jason when she obviously had feelings for someone else? Sam had no answers other than speculation for any of those questions, but she intended to find out.
It was four hours later before they saw any further movement. Elizabeth emerged once again from the room and made her way to her car after an obscene parting kiss. Sam was still unable to view the man clearly, so they stayed in hopes of capturing a better shot once he left. They tracked Elizabeth via GPS while waiting. Twenty minutes later Sam cursed like a sailor as the man quickly made his way from the room to a cab.
The collar of his long black coat was pulled up and a scarf covered the lower half of his face while dark shades and a navy Yankees cap covered the rest of his features. The only real detail she could make out was the lower third of his charcoal dress pants and black wingtips. They followed his taxi back into downtown Port Charles where it stopped in front of the main entrance of the Metro Court hotel. The man threw the driver some cash and made his way inside.
Sam pulled up to the curb and left the van in park as she grabbed her camera and raced in pursuit. She made it just in time to see the man enter one of the elevators, but the doors closed before she could get a close-up. She watched the elevator stop on the 14th floor before making its way back down to the lobby. It returned empty.
Sam and Spinelli left the Metro Court and returned to their office where Spin went to work compiling a list of all registered guests on the fourteenth floor. No names stuck out against the list of names from the bio they'd formed on Elizabeth, so Sam had him extend the search to all registered guests. Spin was to then filter that against the description of their mystery guy and names of registrations of each vehicle parked near the first hotel. It was doubtful they'd find any lead off the parked car info since he'd taken a cab, but Sam wasn't leaving any leaf unturned.
Sam also had Spin working on a list of all incoming and outgoing calls on Elizabeth's cell phone to cross-reference against their list of suspects. Spin reported GPS showed Elizabeth going straight home after her little rendezvous. He worked diligently without complaint, but when Sam caught him hiding his yawns an hour ago she'd sent him home with orders to get some rest. He reluctantly agreed, but promised to call the moment he had something.
Sam pressed her fingers over her weary eyes trying to rub the indecency and exhaustion from them. She ran her fingers back through her hair and admired her new surroundings. Rays of the morning sun filtered through the blinds brightening her entire office. She wished she could say it did the same for her mood. She'd been running non-stop for the last 24 hours which was par for the course in her newly chosen profession. She didn't mind the odd or long hours. It kept things interesting and she was actually far more energized at night. The only trouble was she still had a very long day ahead of her.
She yawned while squinting with one eye open at the black diamond dial of her Omega Seamaster, a gift from Nikolas last Christmas. It was a far more extravagant watch than Sam would ever purchase for herself, but it was exceptional like her cousin so she couldn't help love it like she loved him. It was just after 7am. She needed to leave soon to make it back to her boat in time to shower and dress before meeting Nik at the lake house to escort her mother to her last chemo session before surgery.
Sam made a mental note to bring clothes from home next time. If she had them now she would save time showering and changing at the office. She picked up the Corinthos-Morgan mug Micheal had given her yesterday with a warm smile at the reminder of him. The little red-head had won her heart completely her very first visit when he sent her that handmade get well card via his uncle. She still had that card in a little box along with a few other special mementos of her time in Port Charles. She headed to the kitchenette, mug in hand, where she proceeded to fill it with her third cup of the morning. She'd just taken her first sip and sat back down at her desk looking over the gathered info when a booming voice caught her off guard.
"Now that, young lady, is exactly what I like to see; initiative, hard work and dedication. I see you've already learned there's great truth in what they say about that early bird." The elderly man bellowed while delivering an appreciative glare.
Sam beamed bright as the sun now, both surprised and delighted by his visit. "Mr. Quartermaine, how nice to see you again! How did you know where to find me?"
"Good news travels fast, my dear, and please I thought I told you, you are to call me Edward." He informed as he moved further into her office.
Sam smiled and nodded. "Edward, please sit." She motioned for him to take a chair. "May I offer you something; coffee, juice or tea?"
Edward steadied himself with his walking cane as he lowered his aging joints into the chair across from her.
"No thank you. Afraid I've had my daily limit if I intend to keep this ticker ticking long enough to groom the next CEO to ELQ." He pat his hand over his heart as he spoke.
He shook his head. "At the rate my offspring produce acceptable heirs there's no telling how many more decades I'll have to hold out."
Sam laughed. Jason's grandfather was clever, wise and relentless when it came to a cause he found worthy of pursuit, but she'd seen through the malcontent and knew at the heart of every questionable action was a genuine love for his family.
"What about Dillon?" She couldn't help ask.
"Folderol. That boy can't see past the Hollywood stars in his eyes long enough to focus on a simple quarterly P&L. Brook Lynn is no better all wrapped up in pop star daydreams. Ned had his chance and threw it away to produce that infernal noise he calls music with his wife and AJ is now lost to us for good." He paused for a moment as sadness washed over him and Sam felt bad that AJ's final acts in the world had hurt his family so terribly.
"I thought maybe, just maybe with Skye, but she's taken up with that no good kingpin Alcazar. Justus is smart as a whip and a real fine lawyer, but stubborn as the day is long. I've been unsuccessful in bringing him on board as of yet and my dear Emily... Well, she simply has the heart of a healer not a corporate commander and don't even get me started on Jason." Edward huffed.
Sam chuckled and shook her head then sobered quickly at her next thought. "I thought you'd be thrilled Jason is finally settling down and starting a family?"
"Harrumph!" He scoffed. "Maybe if he were settling down with the likes of you."
Sam was stunned by that response. She knew Edward liked her, but she'd always chalked it up to him being an incorrigible flirt. His comment made her question if maybe he thought more highly of her than she'd ever realized.
Edward pursed his lips and brow and, as he considered his next words, his face softened. "You remind me a lot of my dear sweet Lila. There's a tenderness and a fire blazing in you... all wrapped into one. You're a lover and a fighter just like her and I'll tell you, that's the kind of spirit this family needs more of. Monica has it. Carly too, though I'll deny it with my dying breath, but it does give me hope for Micheal despite the violent and crazy influences he's subjected to on a daily basis. Tracy is too much fighter and not enough lover, too much like me if I'm honest, but I've seen sparks of it in Emily when push comes to shove. And oh, my dear child, if it were you Jason were settling down and starting a family with I dare say I'd be doing cartwheels along the corridors of the maternity ward, impending hip replacements be damned."
Sam chuckled lightly and swallowed the emotion his words engendered.
"Thank you, Edward. I can tell by everything everyone says about Lila how very special she must have been. I'm honored you would compare me to her in any way. I only wish I could have known her, but I'm sure Elizabeth must have good qualities too." Sam's eyes shifted involuntarily from him to the current photo displayed on her laptop of Elizabeth entwined in another man's arms. She cringed at her own words.
"Quite frankly, I'm beginning to wonder." Her eyes darted back to him in a flash.
"What do you mean?"
Edward bit his bottom lip and narrowed his eyes. "My lovely granddaughter informed me over breakfast this morning that you're now a licensed private investigator."
Sam nodded and Edward continued. "She told me where to find you and I thought I'd stop in to see firsthand how you're making out."
"Oh, well, that's very kind of you. Things are going well so far. Yesterday was the first day of business and I managed to sign my first client." Sam shared.
Her years of conning told her Edward was working his way around to something. She was curious what it could be, but thought it best to let him proceed at his own pace.
"Well congratulations, my dear, you're now two for two." Edward informed as he edged a bit closer in his seat and pulled out his checkbook and pen.
Sam blinked. "You want to hire me?"
"I do, indeed." Edward confirmed.
"Why me? You must have an entire team of investigators on hand at ELQ."
"Yes, well, something this personal requires someone I trust, someone I know will remain loyal to me and the people I care about without a primary concern of answering to our shareholders." He explained.
"I'm glad you feel you can trust me. I'd love to help you any way I can, but what is it you need my help with exactly?" Sam wondered.
Edward sighed deep. "This stays between us?"
"Of course."
Edward nodded thoughtfully. "I want you to investigate my future granddaughter-in-law."
Sam had to make sure she'd heard right. "You want me to investigate Elizabeth?"
Again, the old man nodded. "I have reason to believe she may not be the picture of innocence she portrays."
Sam looked back at her computer screen and minimized the photos. "What makes you say that?"
"I may be old, but my hearing is as young as ever. I make it my business to know and hear everything. It's how a man like me got to be where I am today, filthy rich and frighteningly powerful. Now, I rarely interfere with situations speculated on in the rumor mill unless it directly effects family or fortune, but I just can't turn a deaf ear this time. If this turns out to be true, I fear the scandal will not only bring shame and misfortune to the Quartermaine name, but great heartache to my grandchildren as well." Edward frowned.
Sam sighed. She had a good idea where he was going with it and her heart began to race and break all at once, but she needed to play along. "What is it Edward? What have you heard?"
"Let's just say it came to my attention after last Tuesday's board meeting Elizabeth may have been having a secret affair with a man other than my grandson for the last year or more." Sam was appropriately shocked by those words. She hadn't imagined Elizabeth carrying on behind Jason's back for so long. If that were true, then she'd cheated on her husband as well.
"I don't know what to say. Are you certain you can rely on your source?" Sam wondered.
"I could tell I caught them off guard. Doctors Scorpio and Drake are fine physicians who generally rise above such gossip, but Robin seemed to be having a crisis of conscience on whether to approach Jason with what she'd learned since she's also friends with Elizabeth. Patrick suggested she stay out of it and that's where I stepped in. I asked them not to repeat anything to anyone and let me handle it. They agreed, but this is what I need from you. I need you to determine if there is any truth to this claim whatsoever and I need you to do it before my grandson ties the knot." Edward explained.
Sam nodded. "I can do that, but Edward this would be devastating. I'll need your promise whatever information we find it's given to Jason in the gentlest way possible."
"I wouldn't have it any other way and that is precisely why I've come to you. I knew you wouldn't either." Edward confirmed.
"Honestly, I'm not sure what to hope for at this point. I've prayed for the day Jason would finally start a family, but that Webber girl..." Edward sighed before continuing. "She's been a good friend to Emily as far as we know, but I'm sorry to say she just isn't strong enough to handle Jason's lifestyle and I can tell by the way he looks at her she'll never be a strong enough reason for Jason to change his life either. Why, my grandson had deeper feelings for Robin Scorpio and even she wasn't able to steer him away from that life. No." He shook his head. "It's going to take feelings a lot stronger than what he has for nurse Webber to survive the long haul. It's going to take love, real love."
Sam remained silent. She didn't know what to say and shifted uncomfortably.
"Now, there's one more very important detail I've failed to mention and I hope it won't change your mind about helping me." Sam felt the need to hold her breath as he continued. "I have the name of the man Elizabeth has allegedly been involved with since before coming up pregnant."
Sam was suddenly afraid to ask. From the look on his face it was as though Edward thought she knew the man. "Who?"
His eyes misted as if the thought of hurting Sam caused him great pain. "I'm very sorry to tell you the name of the man is none other than your cousin, Nikolas Cassadine."
"Oh God." It came out as just a whisper.
"Again, you have my sincerest apologies. I struggled with whether to approach you with this case or not, but decided you would feel much like I do. You'd want to handle this as discreetly as possible considering..." Edward put his hand over hers across the desk and Sam nodded blankly as she gripped it tight without realizing.
The idea of Elizabeth cheating on Jason had secretly given her hope, hope that she still had a chance with him, even though she knew Jason would be hurt. The thought of the man L!z was with last night actually being her cousin, the man Emily loved with all her heart? How could Nik do that to the woman he claimed to love, to his brother's wife? How could her cousin, knowing how she felt about Jason, continue the illicit affair while Elizabeth ruined any chance Sam had with the man she loved?
Nik wouldn't do that. He couldn't. It didn't make sense and she didn't want to believe it, but wasn't he the one who said he knew from experience fear could seriously cloud your judgment? What if his fear about making Emily a target had led him into the arms of a friend? If he was keeping one secret from Emily, wasn't it possible he was keeping another? It was also no secret Nik never cared for all the time Sam spent with Jason the past year. Nik had voiced his concerns to her several times.
Cassadines were famous for a very perverse sense of family loyalty. What if Nik wasn't actually in love with Elizabeth and wanted to be with Emily, so he'd allowed Elizabeth to pursue Jason in a twisted attempt to keep Sam "safe" from Jason's dangerous lifestyle? Maybe Nik's imploring her to confess her feelings to Jason was only his guilty conscience causing him a fleeting change of heart. And what about Emily? It would kill her and it would kill Jason too not only to learn Elizabeth may have lied about him being a father, but to watch helplessly as his sister's heart was broken.
Sam didn't want to even consider her cousin capable, but in a gut wrenching way a small part of her could believe it, that small part of her that had never had anyone love her without betraying her. As wrong and as bad as it felt, it felt right too, because it was all she'd ever known other than Danny. And as life had taught her over and over again, Danny was the exception that proved the rule her father taught her long ago. The only person you can count on in this world is yourself.
The mere act of doubting Nik's love and loyalty made her stomach lurch. Sam closed her eyes to the tears and suddenly felt Edward's arm wrap around her and a kiss on the top of her head. She hadn't even realized he'd stood up and walked around to her.
Edward pat her shoulder. "There, there now. Try not to worry, dear. I know this will come as a terrible shock to your family if true, but your mother is an incredibly strong woman and she's clearly passed that trait down to her daughters as well. I have no doubt the Davis girls will get through this just fine no matter the outcome. And Emily, she may lose her best friend after all is said and done, but, I'll tell you this, she'll gain an even better one in you. I know you'll be there right along with the rest of her family to see her broken heart mended whole again. As for Jason, well..." He drew out the last word. "He'll have the best medicine in the world standing strong beside him just like last year when he lost his memory and when he almost died and again when he suffered in silence when we believed our beloved little Michael was killed by his kidnappers. I have faith you'll be there to see my grandson sail safely past these troubled waters as well just as my Lila always did for me."
Sam couldn't speak at the moment. She just stood from her chair, hugged him and gave him a soft kiss on the cheek. He hugged her back and she couldn't help a small smile through worried eyes when she pulled back to see his face had taken on a rosy hue.
He smiled for a moment before reclaiming his standard grimace. "Now, how about you draw up that contract while I make out the check?"
Fifteen minutes later, Edward Quartermaine was out the door and on the way to his corner office to finalize the details of ELQ's most recent acquisition while Sam stared down absently at the incredibly generous down payment he insisted she accept.
xxxxx
A long hot shower and fresh change of clothes had gone a long way to improving Sam's outlook. Nik's words replayed in her head. He was right about one thing. She wouldn't allow fear to impede her judgment. Her heart had been bruised by the people she loved, making it hard to trust, but she'd always been able to trust her gut. So, she pushed her emotions down and listened to it and her instincts had brought her to not one but two very important conclusions.
First, no matter the accusations against him, she didn't believe her cousin capable of betraying Emily or her the way she'd feared earlier. And, second, she believed without a doubt Jason never meant to hurt her. He'd made a terrible mistake not being honest with her sooner, but her gut told her Jason was probably beating himself up for hurting the people he cared about. Maybe that was what he was punishing himself so hard for during that workout.
With those two beliefs now firmly in place, she decided her cousin had earned the benefit of the doubt. She was thankful for the timely realization as it made it much easier to be around him that morning. She'd be lying if she said his possible betrayal didn't still linger at the back of her mind, but she prayed that was only insecurity talking. As for what impact her revelation about Jason meant, she'd decided she owed him the opportunity to explain without cutting him down in anger. She just wasn't sure when she'd have the nerve to broach that subject with him, especially considering what she'd learned about his fiancee.
Despite her fears of what Nik may have done, he was always a wonderful buffer between her and her mother. Sam was grateful for his presence, even though she'd avoided conversation with him other than their initial greeting when she first arrived. She went out of her way to chat extensively with her mother in an attempt to put all thoughts of Nik and Elizabeth out of her mind. She'd exhausted nearly every safe topic she could think of and had even resorted to asking about Ric. Sam asked what time Ric's press conference with the mayor was being held and if he'd gotten off alright that morning.
She was surprised by her mother's answer. Alexis informed her that he'd actually left last night after they put the girls to bed. She said he had a very early morning and had decided to stay in his suite at the Metro Court to save time on the commute. Apparently, Sam learned, he did that at least several times a month whenever he had to "work really late" or "arrive really early." Something about the statement had her gut doing flip flops. She found herself fishing for more information and when she managed to craftily ascertain Ric's suite was on the fourteenth floor, she knew. She just knew in her gut and Sam's stomach had turned at the thought of what or who he'd really been working on all those nights away from home.
Still, she had no proof and while she didn't feel that pervert deserved the benefit of the doubt there was no way she would hurt her family until she knew for certain. She wondered why Ric's name hadn't appeared as a registered guest during Spinelli's search, but couldn't think of a way to bring it up without drawing suspicion from Nik or Alexis. She had to handle it very carefully.
She wanted to talk to Nik and ask him point blank about Elizabeth. She could just play it off as having heard the same rumor Edward had. She knew her cousin well enough now that she'd be able to tell if he lied with her suspicions raised, but it would have to wait until after her trip. She also feared maybe she wanted Nik to be innocent so much she was throwing Ric under the bus, but again her gut told her that was only her insecurities speaking. Her instincts told her she needed to pursue Ric as her new primary lead. She was fuzzy on the details, but Ric and L!z had been married at one point and as far as she knew were still friendly with one another. It wasn't much of a stretch to think it somehow became more again. Hadn't her mother just mentioned she and Ric had been fighting a lot last summer?
Her thoughts were interrupted when Higgins put the car in park and opened the door for Alexis, Sam and Nik. The three made their way to the infusion therapy center inside GH where a really nice nurse Alexis had befriended greeted her and showed her to the recliner as she administered the IV. It was hard for both Nikolas and Sam to stand by watching as the poison slowly dripped into her mother's veins. Neither could stand seeing Alexis suffer through it, but they pushed those feelings down offering nothing but strength and positivity.
Upon hearing the news from Nikolas yesterday, Emily had gone out and purchased an iPod and filled it with music and inspirational audiobooks to help Alexis pass the time. She'd sent the gift and her love along with Nikolas and promised to stop by to check on her the minute she got a break. Sam felt guilty for thinking it, but she kind of wished Alexis would use that gift now. Instead her mother had opted for Sam's love life, or lack thereof, as her distraction of choice for the past half hour. Sam prayed for a change of topic.
"Really Sam, why must you see conspiracy in everything? It's just a harmless little dinner party. I would go, but I have a feeling I'm not going to have much of an appetite." Alexis raised the arm with the IV sticking out of it as she spoke.
Sam sighed. "That's what you said about last year's 'innocent' dinner party then I ended up on a blind date with Jason's neurosurgeon. You know he was impossible after that. He swore I put you up to arranging the date because I was too stubborn to admit I wanted him."
Sam rolled her eyes and shook her head at the memory. Patrick's heavy flirting had been unrelenting last winter until she finally threatened she'd have Jason take him out for her if he didn't quit. God, she'd never seen a bigger ego and even though she had to admit he was kind of sexy there was really only one person she was interested in and he was in no shape to give her that kind of attention at that point.
"I admit, the man's ego is out of control, but that comes with the territory. He is a brain surgeon after all and an incredibly gifted one at that. Besides, I knew all he needed was the love of a good strong woman. There was definitely a spark between you two, I saw it, but..." Alexis sighed. "You waited too long Sam, and now he's taken. Robin scooped that yummy arrogant Dr. Drake up and, just as I predicted, her love and strong will is well on its way to taming him into a great husband and father."
Those words hit home for Sam more than Alexis realized. Her mother didn't particularly like or understand Sam's friendship to Jason Morgan, but she had no idea just how deep her feelings were for him. What Alexis said though, it was exactly what she'd done with Jason. She'd waited too long and now someone else had scooped him up and was well on their way to making him into the great husband and father she always knew he'd be.
Now Sam had the power, and pictures, to turn Elizabeth's plans upside down and finally tell Jason how she felt about him. Maybe it wasn't too late for them after all, but was it fair to lay all of that on him? Was it the right thing to do to tell him how she felt after blowing his world apart with those photos? How would he even feel about her after hurting him that way? History hadn't fared kindly to the messenger.
Nik's response pulled her from her thoughts. "So you admit there's a blind date waiting for Sam at this year's dinner party as well then?"
She looked up to see him give her a soft smile before turning his eyes back to his aunt. He knew, somehow he'd known Alexis' words had made her think of Jason.
Alexis narrowed her eyes at her nephew. Who's side was he on anyway? "I admit no such thing."
Sam rolled her eyes with a shake of her head. Her mother was so stubborn. Nik held Alexis with a knowing gaze.
"It's a dinner party to honor the sacrifices of law enforcement. Ric and I sent our RSVP long before I knew I'd still be in recovery from the surgery, but I would be extremely appreciative if you would go in my place as a show of my support Sam." Alexis looked from Nik over to her daughter and her face softened as she spoke.
Sam felt her resolve melting as she looked into her mother's pleading eyes and sighed. "When is it?"
Alexis smiled. "Next week and your dress is on me. I insist. Technically, Ric will escort you, but it isn't like he's a real date. You won't need to be tied to his side the entire time. You should feel free to enjoy the evening as you wish."
"The policeman's ball?" Nik raised a brow. He and Emily had been invited to attend as well due to his large donations to the policeman's fund for widowers and their children.
"Yes." Alexis admitted reluctantly, fully aware of Sam's displeasure whenever the mention of cops came up. "Sam, I know you aren't exactly comfortable around law enforcement, but it's just one night and, after all, you are starting a new career as an investigator. It may serve you well to make nice with a few members of the force. Some of the good guys really are good guys, you know?"
Sam smirked. "And just which one of these good guys would you be trying to set me up with Alexis?"
Alexis opened her mouth to deny, but thought better of it after seeing the look on her daughter's face. "Alright, fine. I may have mentioned you to a certain single detective who recently joined PCPD."
Sam groaned into the palm of her hand. "Ugh, I knew it."
"We were reviewing a case in my office and he commented on one of the photos of you and the girls. So, I simply told him how lucky I am to have three beautiful, brilliant, single daughters. No big deal." Alexis leaned toward Sam and smiled. "He happened to agree, by the way, that you're beautiful."
Sam shut her eyes tight rubbing the sudden ache forming near her temples then shot Nik a dirty look when she heard him snickering. "This isn't funny!"
"I'm just happy it isn't me for a change." Nik smiled.
Alexis saw that as her opening to talk fast. "His name is Cruz. He's a wonderful detective. He's honest and fair and not at all quick to judge. He sees all those shades of gray, Sam, just like you. When he isn't working he's volunteering at the community center to keep Port Charles' at risk youths from turning to crime. He's pretty easy on the eyes too." She began to ramble with a far off look in her eyes. "Of course, I've always had a thing for the dark-hair and dark-eyes. There's just something about the challenge of that domineering macho vibe Italian and Latino men give off that makes my panties..."
"Mom! Aunt Alexis" Sam and Nik exclaimed respectively.
"Drop." Alexis finished earning groans from both her nephew and daughter that time.
Alexis shrugged as Sam looked at her shaking her head, mouth agape, still in disbelief of the visuals the conversation now brought to mind of her mother with her father, Sonny, Ric and now a man she'd never met before. "Well, he is. Cruz Rodriguez is a little hottie." She assured her daughter with a nod and eyebrow wiggle. Sam could only laugh and shake her head some more.
Thankfully Nikolas, who Sam could see was now equally horrified, changed the topic to holiday plans. Emily stopped by in the middle of that discussion and they'd mapped out a few great ideas for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's. However, with it being so soon after surgery, Alexis wasn't quite sure what she'd be able to do for Kristina.
Sam told her mom not to worry. She'd talk with Krissy over the weekend to find out how she wanted to celebrate and take care of all the shopping and setup. Alexis had given her a watery smile and thanked her. Sam knew how hard it was for her mother to give up control over things so important to her like planning a perfect birthday for her little girl. She was determined not to let her down.
9. part 2 of 2...
Between her mother's fight with cancer and everything going on with Jason, Sam wasn't sure how she'd found a genuine smile. She was fairly certain, however, all credit belonged to the cutest little three year old in all of Port Charles and, quite possibly, the world. She wasn't biased or anything, Sam laughed to herself.
Kristina was a force of nature. While Sam would best describe Molly as her own personal ray of sunshine, always so cheerful, Kristina's moods varied like the sea; calm and gentle one moment, raging and fierce the next. Her tantrums were unequaled and her tears heartbreaking, but when she smiled her happiness flooded the senses leaving everyone nearby helpless to feel anything other than pure joy too. And that is exactly what Sam had felt, pure joy, all afternoon since picking Krissy up from their mother's. Somehow the weight of the world, or at least her world, had been lifted from her shoulders the more time she spent with her little sister.
Sam, Nik and Alexis had arrived back at the lake house to find Kristina already bundled in her coat with her Princess Ariel doll in her arms and sparkly blue and purple Little Mermaid back pack on her back stuffed so full it barely zipped. When she saw Sam walk through the doors, Krissy practically Tigger bounced on tiptoes straight into her sister's arms. The little girl couldn't wait for their trip and Sam couldn't help but smile in excitement too.
After ensuring Alexis was settled comfortably and promising to call at least twice a day, and providing Alexis with an hourly itinerary, and multiple emergency contact numbers as well as a copy of the map that showed the course Sam charted, they said their goodbyes. Sam hated to leave knowing the sickness that would overtake Alexis soon, but her mother had asked for her help in keeping Kristina away from all of that and Sam felt better knowing Nik and Emily intended to keep a close eye on her while they were gone.
Krissy and Sam spent the next couple of hours grabbing lunch then doing a bit of last minute shopping. They'd gone back to her boat about a half an hour ago to be there in time for Jason and Micheal's arrival. Kristina and Sam now sported matching outfits. It was a little surprise Sam ordered when she first bought the boat and thought of taking the trip. Each crew member had their own jacket, ball cap and shirts. They were black with a white and royal blue logo of a whale. The image reminded her of the whale from Danny's favorite lullaby and she thought it a fitting logo. The name of the vessel was stitched on all of the items with the name and title of the crew member added to the shirts as well.
Sam and Krissy were now dressed in faded blue jeans, matching black fitted polo shirts and black squall jackets with their hair pulled up in pony tails and strung through their ball caps. Sam was signing off on delivery of a few last minute staples when she heard Kristina's unbound excitement.
"Sam! Sam, it's Micheal and Jason! They're here! They're here!" Kristina cheered while jumping up and down.
Sam looked up from the clipboard as she handed it back to the delivery guy to find a full blown smile on Jason's face as he watched her little sister's reaction to their arrival. She felt her heart flutter. He was gorgeous and when he smiled, Sam was sure she'd never seen any man more appealing. She averted her eyes before Jason noticed and thanked the marina owner's son with a generous tip for getting everything on her last minute list delivered right and on time.
The teen blushed when she smiled at him and told her anytime. He asked if she needed help stowing it, but she told him she could handle it and he'd nodded with a wink to Kristina and left. It wasn't much. Sam had most everything on board already and had only needed a few things to make the trip more enjoyable for the kids.
She watched as Micheal paused before stepping foot on board and requested permission. She smiled and granted it. It made her proud to see he'd remembered their very first lesson last year on proper boating etiquette when she'd given him a tour of the Lazarus. Jason and Micheal boarded without further delay. Jason carried a medium black duffel she assumed was his and a black Pirates of the Caribbean back pack that had to be Micheal's. He loved those movies and they'd watched the first one together several times last spring before she'd had to leave.
"Cool hat!" Micheal told his little sister as he gently tugged on the bill.
Kristina smiled up adoringly at her big brother. "It's from Sam. It's for crew members only."
"Wow, you're part of the crew?" Micheal asked with part awe and part envy.
Kristina nodded her head with a big smile. "Uh-huh. Sam got them for us."
Micheal looked up wide-eyed and hopeful at Sam for confirmation. "Really?"
"Yep. Think you're up for the job?" Sam teased.
"Definitely!" He nodded. "You hear that uncle Jason? We get uniforms too." He smiled up at his uncle.
"I don't know Micheal. I'm a last minute addition and Sam must have had to put that custom order in weeks ago." Jason was confident she had no intentions of inviting him if it weren't for Carly and Sonny's request.
"No, there's a uniform for both of you." Sam interrupted and Jason was surprised. That would mean she must have planned on inviting him before. The thought made him smile then he frowned wondering if Coop would be getting a uniform too.
"Kristina, why don't you show them to their quarters?" Sam suggested and Krissy nodded happily as she took Micheal's hand.
Micheal grabbed his pack from Jason. "Come on uncle Jason! Let's get our uniforms on!"
Jason gave a half smile and little huff. "You go ahead buddy. I'll be down in a few minutes."
Jason heard him shout okay as he and Krissy headed down below. He turned his attention back to Sam. She was still smiling after them. She was beautiful always, but when she smiled so bright like now that it shone in her eyes he actually believed his heart would burst from his chest with love and want of her.
Sam caught him staring and she looked away nervously as he spoke. "We haven't even left dock yet and you've already managed to make them happier than I've seen either in a long time."
Sam shrugged. "Kids aren't so hard to figure out. They're just like the rest of us. All they want is to feel safe and loved with a little undivided attention from someone who'll listen and really hear them and love them no matter what."
Jason nodded. "That's what makes you so special, so good with them. Most people don't see what you see."
A small smile formed on her lips as she looked at him and then away as she felt a blush stain her cheeks. She always loved the way Jason gave compliments. He didn't say what he thought she wanted to hear like how pretty she looked in an outfit. He was more likely to say something like he just had and it was always said with such sincerity. Hearing you're beautiful was nice every once in a while, but his compliments were far better. They spoke of her character and she'd never had anyone understand her so thoroughly and still think so highly of her as Jason had always done.
Jason clapped his hands together once. "So, I'm here reporting for duty. What's my first order Captain?"
Sam's eyes sparkled with her smile at his words. She could think of lots of things she'd like to order him to do... "Help bring the boxes aboard?"
She pointed to the four small crates on the dock that were just delivered. Jason nodded and grabbed the top two off the stack and brought them aboard before turning for the final two. Sam picked one up from the stack of four and proceeded to carry it below to the galley. Jason picked up the other three and followed.
She set her box on the stainless steel counter and watched as Jason's arms and shoulder muscles strained against his shirt as he lowered the three crates to the floor near the counter. "You didn't have to get all three. I was prepared to make another trip."
Jason just shrugged and began putting away the refrigerated and frozen items as Sam stowed the dry goods.
"Think you've got enough ice cream?" Jason said with a bit of sarcasm. There had to be 8 or more pints of Haagen Daz.
Sam peeked her head in the freezer in front of Jason. "I only had coffee and rum raisin. I didn't think Micheal and Krissy would like either of those, so I picked up a few more. Only, I wasn't sure what other flavor they wanted so I got a variety."
"I see that." Jason nodded and shut the freezer door with a smirk.
"I know how you are about junk food Jason. So if you refuse to have any of the chocolate peanut butter I won't be offended." Sam teased knowing how much he secretly loved it.
She'd made him try a bite last April while watching a ball game on his couch and was then distracted as the Phillies took the lead to win against the Nationals. By the time she looked back down, her bowl was empty and Jason had an incredibly new found interest in the car insurance commercial on television.
She stifled a chuckle when she heard the freezer door open up again behind her. "You got that peanut butter chocolate one again?"
He'd never been a fan of ice cream, but that one was really good.
"Mm-hm, but don't worry." She turned and patted him playfully on his washboard abs as she passed by. "I know you wouldn't want to do anything to harm that girlish figure."
Jason scoffed. "There's nothing girlish about this figure. One hundred percent male right here." He patted his hand against his chest.
Sam shook her head preparing to tease him a little more when Micheal came rushing in. He'd already been wearing blue jeans, but now he had on his black shirt, jacket and ball cap too. "Oh good. I kind of guessed on sizes, but it looks like everything fits."
Micheal nodded. "It fits perfect Sam. Thanks!"
"You're welcome." Sam smiled.
"So um, Sam... what's a boat swain?" Micheal said peering down with furrowed brows at the title on his shirt.
Sam giggled. "It's pronounced bosun and I'll tell you all about your duties as soon as the entire crew is in uniform."
With that, Sam, Kristina and Micheal all looked expectantly at Jason and Jason frowned. He didn't see any need to change. He was already wearing a black shirt and black jacket and there was no way he was wearing a hat. So what if it was a tee shirt instead of a polo and the jacket was leather?
"I'm already wearing black. I should probably save it for tomorrow." Jason argued.
"Nice try, but I ordered enough shirts for each day of the trip." Sam grinned. She knew he'd try to get out of it which was why she'd ordered black in the first place. At least it would increase the odds of him wearing it.
Jason frowned and tried to come up with another argument. Micheal must have recognized his stubborn face. "Come on uncle Jason, Sam got us these cool gifts. You don't want to hurt her feelings by making her think you don't like them do you?"
Micheal tugged Jason's arm pulling him along and Jason sighed, accepting his fate. His eyes made contact with Sam's as he passed. "No." He said looking straight into her eyes. "The last thing I ever want to do is hurt her. She means too much to me."
Sam's breathing felt shaky at his words. She wanted to look away, but couldn't until he finally broke the contact as he turned to follow Micheal to his cabin. She swallowed and tried to keep her composure in tact. The kids were oblivious to Jason's double meaning, but she wasn't. The look in his eyes just now had been full of sadness; pain really, and regret and above all there was sincerity, that same sincerity as when he gave her a compliment.
If there had been any lingering question of whether she owed it to Jason to hear him out, he'd answered it just then. She hadn't known before when or how she would bring up the subject and she still didn't know how yet, but she knew without a doubt they weren't going to last three days on that trip together without going there. Seeing the look in Jason's eyes, she knew she wouldn't be able to hold out that long. She already wanted to hear his side of things.
Her heart was halfway to forgiving him and she didn't even understand why. Part of her cursed her own heart for betraying her, but most of her heart couldn't help be filled with hope. She meant too much to him, the words repeated over in her head. Sam couldn't be sure, but she thought she'd seen love in his eyes when he said those words. She definitely knew she felt it when he'd said them, but she wasn't sure if she'd felt his love for her or her love for him? She only knew it was love, the deepest, most intense love she'd ever felt in her life. Now she only had to figure out what the hell to do about it.
xxxxx
Jason made his way to the living room sofa where Sam, Micheal and Kristina were already seated. They were laughing about something and Jason smiled at seeing their happiness.
Sam turned to Jason and her breath hitched. His muscles bulged in all the right places and she was glad she'd ordered his shirts a size smaller. "It fits."
Jason smiled softly and smoothed his hand down his chest. "Yeah, it's actually almost as comfortable as my tee shirt. Thanks."
Sam nodded with a smile.
"We're all in uniform now, so we can finally find out about our jobs." Micheal announced anxiously and Krissy nodded.
Jason took an empty space on the sofa next to Sam, but far enough not to make her uncomfortable while she began with a little orientation. Sam was captain, naturally, and listed her duties briefly. She was in charge of seeing the vessel and all its guests and crew safely to and from every destination. She'd made Jason her 1st mate. He liked the sound of that and smiled privately to himself when he first read the title stitched on his shirt as he dressed. Sam explained the 1st mate was like a second in command and also assisted the captain with watch-guard duties to ensure the ship and crew were safe.
Micheal's eyes got big when Sam presented him with a long brass whistle. It was a bosun's call. His duties were to oversee everything on deck so that the ship was kept orderly and clean and running like a fine-oiled machine. There was also a video and booklet that came with the whistle so he could practice all the crew calls he would be responsible for making with his new whistle. He couldn't wait to start.
"Do I get a whistle too?" Kristina asked with a sad face.
Sam picked her up and moved her into her lap. "No baby, you get something better."
Kristina's face lit up. "What is it?"
"You get to sound the bell at every meal time." Sam explained. Most boats, just as hers, used a digital soundtrack these days rather than the old-fashioned brass bells, but Sam would have preferred the real thing. She just hadn't had time to find one yet.
"I like bells." Kristina smiled.
"Good because while Micheal is responsible for the exterior of the ship your duties as stewardess leave you in charge of the interior. I'll need you to make sure everything inside runs smoothly, like setting the table for meals, helping make beds and helping me prepare for tea time too." Kristina smiled brighter and nodded happily.
"I can do that. I can do that so good." She promised her.
"I knew you could Krissy. I knew you were the best one for the job." Sam told her and hugged her little sis closer to her.
"Uncle Jason, can we give Sam her gift now?" Micheal looked to his uncle.
"Sure." Jason nodded and Micheal ran to his room to get it.
He came back with an unwrapped white box with a royal blue bow on top.
"Sorry, we aren't very good at wrapping." Micheal apologized with a sheepish look back at his uncle who shrugged.
She smiled as Kristina moved off her lap so Sam could accept the gift.
"It's alright. You two didn't need to get me anything, but I love the bow. It matches our logo." Sam said and Micheal smiled.
"It was uncle Jason's idea, the gift I mean." Micheal admitted. "He noticed you didn't have one yet when he was here before."
Sam looked to Jason with a curious smile and he looked down suddenly unsure of himself which was a totally unfamiliar feeling to him. He'd never felt that way until he met her, but Sam always brought it out in him. She made him feel... nervous because he hoped for so much whenever he looked at her, wanted so much.
Sam set the box on the small table in front of her. It was rather heavy, she noted. She opened the top and parted the tissue paper to reveal something large and brass with a rope attached to the top. She pulled it out by the rope. It was a good-sized brass bell. She noticed two lines of an engraving centered on the bell and turned it to read: In memory of the angel who got his wings far too soon, Daniel Lee McCall. Welcome aboard Danny's Lullaby.
Sam felt the tears welling up and quickly blinked them away. Her mother had insisted Sam watch "It's a Wonderful Life" with her last Christmas when she learned Sam had never seen it. Sam forced Jason to watch it with her the next day in his hospital bed. She wanted him to see and hear the message in that movie because Jason was still refusing to have surgery at that point and if he hadn't he would have died and her life would never have been the same. He'd never seen it either and she still wasn't sure Jason had actually seen much of it that time with her because every time she looked over at him he was watching her instead. "Than-Thank you." She managed to get out.
"I love it." She swallowed and pulled Micheal in for a hug as she looked over his little shoulder into Jason's eyes. Jason could see the thanks in her eyes. He'd done good picking something out for her. He'd never told her, but last year as he watched Sam cry during that old black and white movie he'd decided he just couldn't leave her. He'd decided to have the surgery, for her. A faint smile found his lips and he wished he were the one hugging her right now.
The next several hours went by fast. Jason couldn't remember having that much fun since... Well, since the last time he'd hung out with Sam. He was grateful she'd extended a truce and not just said it, but followed through with action. He hadn't felt any of the anger or hurt coming off her like he had before. He admired her even more for it because he knew she was putting up a good front to make sure the kids had a good time. He was having a good time too and it really seemed like maybe Sam was also.
Sam patiently instructed them with assignments as they made their way safely out of port and cruised out of the harbor down the canal toward Lake Erie. They made great time and Sam had made the kids feel really good by attributing it to how well they were doing their jobs. Sam put the ship on auto pilot while the four of them took a moment to watch the sun fade into the horizon.
It had been one of the most peaceful moments, watching the sunset. Actually, watching Sam watch the sunset, and he'd never forget it. Sam stood with Kristina on her hip, their heads leaned together and Micheal standing between him and Sam. Jason stood slightly behind Sam with his arm around Micheal so he could sneak peeks at Sam without her knowing. It was a rare moment of silence with the kids that evening that had gone by without words. Micheal had looked up at Jason and smiled then looked at Sam and smiled at her too. She'd smiled right back at him and shifted Kristina so she could run her hand through Micheal's hair briefly before it settled on his shoulder. When the weight of Sam's arm rested against Jason's as they both held on to Micheal, Jason had felt his heart skip.
The silence lasted until the sun was finally put to bed and then someone, he couldn't remember who now, brought up the subject of real pirates of the Caribbean. At first Jason thought Sam was only pulling Micheal's leg, but she seemed to be taking the subject rather serious and he'd had to step in at that point insisting, "There were no such things as modern-day pirates of the Caribbean."
Playful bickering ensued for the next hour as Sam stated her case that it was indeed a pirate of the Caribbean that taught her to sail when she and her father worked aboard his ship as crew for a year. Jason was amazed by her story. She never mentioned her years with her father much and he watched amused as his eight year old nephew fell in love with retired pirate, Sam McCall. Jason couldn't help fall a little more in love with her too at seeing how good she was with and for his nephew. He'd meant what he told her earlier. He hadn't seen Micheal or Kristina that happy since before the kidnapping.
They dropped anchor for the night just off the coast line of Erie, PA. Sam said they were halfway there, but the first destination was a surprise. Jason could tell Sam was exhausted, but she was determined to have a fun night with the kids. She'd decided they would do dinner and a movie and get an early start in the morning. That led to Jason and Sam teasing one another over who was worse in the kitchen as the four of them prepared and ate dinner together. Micheal, surprisingly since he'd obviously fallen in love with Sam, took Jason's side while little Kristina defended her sister to the end. For the record, Sam was worse, he noted to himself as he remembered that argument.
After dinner, Jason heated the oil in the skillet for popcorn while Sam helped the kids change into their pajamas. She also used that time to call Alexis so she and Kristina could say goodnight and Jason had done the same calling Carly for Micheal. Carly still wasn't talking to him and he felt bad about that, but felt good knowing his being with Micheal gave Carly some sense of relief. He knew how hard it was to let Micheal go and he was proud of Carly for the strength she showed. He wasn't sure, but he thought Sam seemed a little sad after talking with her mom. He shrugged it off when her smile returned. She was probably just tired.
He looked down at her next to him now on the sofa. Definitely tired, he thought. The four started off comfy cozy on the sofa with Kristina and Micheal sitting between him and Sam with drinks and popcorn at the ready. They finally narrowed down the movie choices to Disney's Peter Pan and Finding Nemo. Jason hadn't seen either before, but the fish movie won out. He was the only one not excited about the movie and yet he was the only one still awake by ending credits.
Sam fell out almost as soon as the room got dark and the movie started. Kristina was cuddled up with Sam in a purple blanket, but the little toddler's eyes hadn't started dozing until the halfway mark. Kristina and Sam slowly started leaning toward Micheal and Jason in their sleep, so Micheal had moved over to another spot to spread out more. Micheal tried, but failed by mere minutes to stay awake until his favorite part when the pelican flew into the dentist's office. Jason chuckled at that part and was glad nobody was awake to witness it.
He'd actually stifled quite a few laughs and was surprised how much he enjoyed it. Something about the father and son relationship really got to him. It made him think about him and Micheal and the lengths he'd been willing to go to find him when he was kidnapped. Sam was kind of like his Dori in a much sexier, far less annoying way. She stayed positive and never let him give up and she could always make him laugh when he needed it most.
He watched Sam as she slept. Kristina was now laying across both of them with her head in Sam's lap and her little legs across Jason's. Jason had stretched his arms against the back of the sofa and Sam was now curled into his side with her head resting on his chest. He couldn't help it. All he could think when he looked down at Sam and Krissy like that was how that could be his future if he was brave enough to fight for it. Sam at his side and a little son or daughter for them to love and raise together.
He lowered his arm around Sam and held her. She nuzzled into him in her sleep with a contented sigh and he wanted nothing more than that peaceful feeling of Sam in his arms to last forever. He decided in that moment he could settle for nothing less than Sam by his side for the rest of his life. He had to fight for her. He would fight for her and he hoped with all his heart his sister had been right, that Sam would want to be with him too and help him raise his child.
Page 25 of 25 Created: 2011-02-24 Updated: 2014-11-08 Words: 10956 Characters: 59093[b]