Chapter 19

On 1/12/2025, we received the sad news of Leslie Charleson (Monica) passing. RIP.

Thank you to trini12180, leeleelay5, starhine, Pamela, and guest for your reviews.

December 1999

Steven knocks on the door; Milo opens it, and Steven says, "What the fuck?"

Jason is lying on Elizabeth's couch and shivering despite being covered in a blanket. Elizabeth is holding his hands and wiping his forehead with a cloth. Elizabeth looks at her brother with tears in her eyes. "Stevie, you have to help. I've done what I can, but I don't have the proper equipment."

Steven walks to Jason and opens his medical bag. "I won't ask too many questions or tell anyone because I know better. Lizzy, what needs to be done?"

"He has a bullet wound in his side that went through and through. It missed his vital organs but needs stitching, antibiotics, and pain meds. I don't want his name on them. I'm asking for a lot, but no one can know he's here injured or has a prescription with his name on it."

Steven pushes Elizabeth aside to inspect Jason's wound. "You did a fine job of cleaning the area. Can you help with the debridement? I have a local anesthetic to inject." Milo stands back and watches the brother-sister team work in unison. Elizabeth works in sync with her brother, detaching from who is lying on her couch, but occasionally wipes away a tear. "Lizzy, I'll apply the dressing. You can clean up. Take a quick shower, and I'll leave instructions."

"I'm okay."

"Elizabeth, it wasn't a suggestion. You need a break."

Milo thinks he's rarely heard Steven call Elizabeth by her given name. "Steven, what should I do?"

"I wish Jason would be in the hospital, but instead, be there for my sister. Jason doesn't want anyone to know, and I assume that includes Sonny and Carly. Elizabeth will need your support and be there to fend off the vultures should that happen."

"Of course."

Elizabeth exits wearing jeans, a T-shirt, and slippers. After drying her hair, she has a small towel around her neck. "Thanks, Steven. I needed that. How is he?" She sits and rests her hand against his forehead.

"The next 48 hours will be vital. I'll try to get antibiotics and pain medications without drawing attention. I'll arrange for you to get time off. Here's a list of things to do and watch for." He kisses her head and says goodbye to Milo.

Elizabeth strokes Jason's face. He opens his eyes briefly, and they rest on Elizabeth's face. "Elizabeth," he gasps and closes his eyes.

Elizabeth holds his hand and says, "Milo, are we still in agreement? You'll keep your mouth shut?"

"Yes, I promise. Since your attack, you've been under Sonny and Carly's radar. My Pop dressed them down, and Jason gave them what for, but he's kept his distance since March. With Jason missing, Sonny won't think twice about coming looking for you. I doubt they know he's been shot. If he does, I'll run interference. I left working for them after what Pete tried to do to you."

"Thanks, Milo. You have been by my side since Italy. Can you give me time alone with Jason? I'll call if I need you." Milo holds her hand as they walk to the door.

Elizabeth returns to Jason, adds another blanket, and lies beside him. She holds his hand, and he shivers and shakes.

He wakes from his fevered dream and mumbles, "Elizabeth, I'm sorry. You were right."

"Right about what?"

"Carly….you were right about Carly…I'm sorry, I love you."

Knowing Jason is delirious, Elizabeth laughs, "Of course I'm right. Right about what?"

"Carly…" Jason drifts off again.

Elizabeth knocks on Milo's door, "If you can stay with Jason, I'm going to Kelly's. Can I get anything for you?" Milo gives her his order, and Elizabeth heads to Kelly's.

…Meanwhile…

Harborview Towers

After last night's argument, Carly is awake and feeding Michael, and the air is still thick between Sonny and Carly. Sonny says, "I'm going across the hall. I have business to discuss with Jason."

"You aren't going to say anything about Pete, are you?"

"God, no. You know what will happen if he finds out? I still haven't decided what I'm going to do about it. You broke all kinds of codes. Your hatred of Elizabeth will ruin you if you don't adjust your behavior. If Maximus finds out, he may disregard his stance of not hurting women. What the fuck were you thinking?!" Sonny storms out before he decides to throw things.

He knocks on Jason's door and receives no answer. He calls down to the desk, and they never recorded him leaving. Sonny asks to see if Jason's bike is there. The guard checks the video surveillance, and Jason's bike is there. Sonny enters the empty apartment. Jason's bed hasn't been slept in. He returns to his PH and calls Max. "Have you seen Jason? No one has seen him since last night."

"I'll check with the other guards."

Elizabeth returns with a supply of chili, sandwiches, and one hot chocolate. She knocks on her door with her head. Milo asks who it is, and she says, "It's me; my hands are full." Milo quickly opens the door and takes the bags from Elizabeth's arms. "Thanks, any change?"

"No, he's sleeping. Max called. Sonny says Jason is missing."

Elizabeth smirks, "What did you say?"

"That I haven't seen him; I don't expect to, considering how things ended between Jason and you."

"Thanks, I'll take over." Milo retrieves his food and walks next door. Elizabeth sets her food on the counter. She removes her gloves to feel Jason's face. Her hands are too cold, and she leans over to touch his forehead with her face.

"You smell like snow."

"Snow doesn't smell."

"Yes, it does."

"Good, you are awake. Your fever has broken." She touches her still-cold hands on his face. He jumps, "Oh, sorry. How are you feeling?"

"Like I've been shot. How long have I been out? What happened?"

"You don't remember?" Jason shakes his head. Elizabeth explains how she found him and had help from Steven and Milo. "You've been asleep for twelve hours. No one else knows you are here. Are you still adamant about not letting Sonny know you are here?"

"Yes." Elizabeth is silent. "You aren't going to ask me how I was shot?"

Elizabeth snorts, "Jason, I know better. You will tell me if or when you are ready."

"I'm glad it was you who found me."

"So am I."

Milo knocks, and Jason stiffens. "It's me and your brother."

Elizabeth opens the door, and her brother and Milo walk in. Steven leaves more first aid supplies. He brushes past Elizabeth to inspect Jason. "Jason, you were fortunate. If Elizabeth hadn't found you, you might have died. She assisted in your surgery." Steven looks at the incision. "I want you to take it easy for a week; don't give me dirty looks. Milo is under direct orders to keep you inside. I'm leaving antibiotics and pain medications with Elizabeth. Follow her orders." He hands Elizabeth two pill bottles and walks out.

Milo says, "He means it. Good to see you are awake." Milo walks out.

Jason says, "Did I piss them off?"

"They haven't forgiven you for what happened to me."

"Have you?"

"I never blamed you for what happened with Pete. I didn't blame Sonny. If he knew what Pete was capable of, he would have acted. I didn't trust anyone anymore. I hate that I killed someone, even someone like Pete. I was scared. When I got your present, it moved me." Elizabeth hands him an antibiotic and pain pill. She holds the water bottle for him. She gets him to take a few bites of a sandwich.

"I never wanted you to feel scared. I never wanted you to feel less. I made you feel that way with Carly. I made you feel less, and I won't do that again." Elizabeth looks skeptical. It will take time to trust me again; I'll wait." Jason drifts off to sleep.

Elizabeth whispers, "I'll try." She wipes his forehead with a wet towel and kisses his cheek.

Elizabeth sketches and hums; Jason wakes and teases her. She looks up from her work and smiles. "I miss this; the teasing, the way we used to talk and share things. You said you were sorry in your delirium and mentioned Carly. I miss the honesty. Can we get it back?"

"I hope so. I want to. Give me time, and I'll explain everything."

Elizabeth gives him another pain pill and helps him eat the chili.

Jason smiles. He won't admit it, but he likes having her care for him. "Steven said you assisted in my surgery." Jason gingerly lifts the shirt Elizabeth dressed him in after his surgery. He inspects the incision and the seven stitches. He touches the area, still tender. It looks good. Thank you. When can I leave?" He tries to sit up but winces in pain. Elizabeth pushes him back on the sofa and pulls up the covers.

"Now sleep."

"When did you get so bossy?"

"I like being in control, at least control of my life. I've always been this way."

Jason smiles, "Can I speak with Milo privately?"

"Of course, I'll pick up more supplies. Any food requests?" Elizabeth writes their requests. Jason reaches for her hand and kisses it. She doesn't pull away.

Jason tells Milo everything. He tells what he overheard and believes Carly is responsible for Elizabeth's attack. "I can't do anything; I'm too close. Sonny won't take action; she's his wife. Max has a crush on Carly and no offense, but despite being your brother, he can't be trusted. We need to tell Maximus. He'll know how to handle Carly. Milo makes a few calls. Jason drifts back to sleep.

Elizabeth returns and checks his wound. "What did you do? You popped a stitch. If you don't take it easy, you'll be on the disabled list longer."

Jason has a guilty look on his stubbled face. "Milo took me for a walk down the hall, and when we returned, I used the bathroom, wanting to shave. The razor slipped from my hands, and I bent over to pick it up."

"Jason, I can't imagine you wanting to stay longer than necessary, but if you do shit like this, your stay will be extended."

Jason hates being cooped up, but it beats the hospital. He doesn't mind the company. Grinning, "I promise to behave." She walks him to a chair and converts the sofa to a bed. She assists him back to the sofa bed, winking, "Where will you sleep?"

"Down, boy. Do you want to pop all your stitches? I think we can share as long as you behave unless you want Milo to be your bedmate."

Aghast, Jason promises he'll behave. He drifts off to sleep. Elizabeth checks on Milo, but he is having a deep conversation with his father. She leaves out of respect.

"Pop, what do you want me to do? Max can't know, but I'll do whatever it takes to get justice for Bella." Maximus details what he wants done but says that Milo's hands must be clean. He has someone in Rochester who can outsource everything. His source will oversee the operation.

The following morning, Elizabeth stops by the ER to thank Steven for all he's done to help Jason. She begins her shift, and Emily visits her parents. "Elizabeth, your brother said you were taking a few days off. I hope you did something fun."

"I painted and rode my bike when the streets were clear. It got rid of some cobwebs."

"Have you seen Jason?"

"No, we lost touch after what happened in my studio. Why?"

"Right, I forgot. Carly came to see me thinking I was privy to Jason's personal calendar and knew where he was. Sony and Carly haven't seen him in over three days."

"Are they his keeper? Three days is nothing. Maybe he went riding.

"Nope! Carly said his bike is still at HVT. She even went to the Quartermaines."

"A little desperate for three days. I hope she didn't upset Lila."

"Which is why I'm asking you. Maybe Jason borrowed your bike."

"Jason and I haven't been riding in almost nine months."

"I'm sorry for asking. That was a terrible thing that happened to you. You aren't blaming Jason, are you?"

"No, I'm sorry, Em, I'm late for my shift. Kiss Lila for me." Elizabeth sighs as she walks away. She hates lying to her friend, but if Emily knew where Jason was hiding, she'd visit and probably tip off Sonny and Carly.

Elizabeth finishes her shift and picks up some food from Kelly's. She drives past a Christmas tree lot and has an idea. She purchases a natural tree in a pot, and the attendant loads it in her car.

Meanwhile, Maximus dispatches some local muscle to put the fear of God into Carly Corothinos. They catch her coming out of a Baby Yoga and Me class. Her guard is knocked out. She is chloroformed and shoved into a black SUV. Letecia, Michael's nanny, has a bag over her head; they are taken to HVT, where they drop them off with Michael and his stroller.

Carly is taken to a safe house two hours outside of PC. She is screaming and crying. She wants to know where her son is. She is bound to a bed. There are two men in masks.

"Do you know who I am? My husband is Sonny Corothinos!"

"We know who you are. Your husband means nothing to us. We work for someone far more powerful."

"Where is my son? If you hurt him, I don't care who you work for. I know people who would make you pay for hurting a child."

"Lady, we don't hurt children. Your son and his nanny are safe and back home. Soon, he will reunite with his father. Corothinos, however, will wonder where you are."

"Why? What did I do to your boss?"

"We know about Pete. We know you paid him to attack Elizabeth Webber."

Carly panics. How did they find out? The only person who knew was Sonny unless Pete told someone. Carly calls their bluff. "The muffin is under our protection. Why would I want to harm her?"

"Because she was an obstacle to your friendship with Jason Morgan? Did you order Pete to rape and kill Ms. Webber?"

Carly knows that any answer she gives could get her killed. "It wasn't me, it was…" Carly searches for a name, "It was Milo. He was tired of guarding the boring cherub. He wanted to move up in the organization; if Elizabeth were gone, he'd get a better detail. He's the one who set Pete up."

"That makes no sense. Milo adores Elizabeth. He requested her detail."

"What are you going to do to me? Whatever answer I give, you won't like."

"Correct. You have three options. Move to the Island, never to return. We can arrange partial custody of your son. Suffer the same fate you intended for Bella, minus the attempted rape. Unlike your ilk, we wouldn't stoop that low. Or let Jason Morgan decide your punishment."

The wheels in Carly's head spin, "Bella. Only Maximus's family calls her that. Shit, I just blamed Milo." She says, "Sonny would never allow me to be shipped to the Island. You have a code not to touch the women, and I'm under Jason Morgan's protection."

"Sonny doesn't have a choice unless he wants to join you. Codes are meant to be broken when you intend to harm an innocent woman." (Carly huffs hissing innocent, my ass). "And you assume that Jason Morgan wants to protect you." The man leans over Carly and whispers, "Who do you think told us about you?" Carly gasps.

Over at HVT, Sonny is shocked to get a call from the desk that Michael and his nanny are in the lobby. He paces the elevator during the 15-floor descent. He rushes out, and the toddler runs into his father's arms. Letecia is drinking water and shaking. She describes what happened to her and says, "They knocked out Johnny and grabbed Mrs. Corothinos. They left this note with me. I am so sorry. I pray for Mrs. Corothinos. Have you found Johnny?"

Sonny takes the note and says, "Johnny is being treated at GH for a concussion. Max is picking him up." Sonny reads the note and leaves.

He drives to his warehouse and is greeted by two heavy-set men. "Leave your piece at the door. Frisk him."

Sonny pushes through. "Where is my wife?"

"Learning her lesson. She was warned; you both were warned not to harm Elizabeth Webber. Your wife was responsible for her attack. Don't bother trying to deny it. There's not only a paper trail but also a recording."

"What am I supposed to do? She's my wife."

"Do you want to join her, or do you want to teach her a lesson?"

"We don't harm women."

"We didn't until Carly happened."

"Did you do something to Jason Morgan too? He's missing."

"Just concern yourself with your wife. Do you want to join her on the Island and run a casino, or do you want to teach her a lesson? Leave her on the Island, and maybe if she behaves, she won't have men try to attack her."

"I will retaliate when you least expect it."

Maximus tosses a thick file across the desk. "I doubt it. I have copies; the shit I have on you, you will be looking over your shoulder. Carly stepped over the line. Six months."

"What about Michael?"

"Teach her a lesson."

Sonny grumbles and thinks, "Just you wait, old man. I'll be running everything." He says, "Fine. Send her to the Island, and I'll keep Michael, but three months. She'll miss Michael's birthday. He'll be two in less than two weeks. That should be punishment enough."

"Fine. You can call and explain to her. She leaves in an hour."

Maximus hears Carly screaming and crying through the phone while Sonny explains why Carly is spending three months away from her son. "Carly, you fucked up! This is the only way to make amends. You should have known this would bite you in the ass. You do not screw with Maximus family, and Elizabeth is his family. When you return, make things right. You don't need to be her best friend, but you will co-exist. I don't want to hear about Jason; he'll return when he's ready. You tell Michael you love him every night."

Sonny hangs up and looks at Maximus, "Are we good?"

"Apologize to Bella; I'll leave that up to her."

Elizabeth's Studio

Jason laughs at seeing the sad-looking tree. "What are we supposed to do with that poor tree?"

"Decorate it, of course. You must keep moving. You need a task. Steven will be by tomorrow to determine when you can be discharged. I'm going with him to celebrate with my family. Milo will keep you company. Can I pick anything up for you?"

"A globe for Michael. I've been reading him travel books. Milo has been bringing by books."

"We can give him the day off for family when I return from shopping."

Jason cautiously pulls her to him and embraces her. His lips touch her face. "I'll take it slow and tell you everything," he says.

She stands on her toes and pecks him quickly. "I'll wait."

Steve stops by in the morning and tells him he's good to leave before the New Year. Elizabeth joins her family in an early celebration and shops afterward. Jason hands Milo a list of what he wants to give Elizabeth. Milo updates him on the Carly situation. Jason feels conflicted. He wants Carly to learn her lesson but feels bad about Michael.

Elizabeth returns, ladled with bags, packages, and groceries. Milo assists, bringing them inside. Jason has completed decorating the tree. She notices a few packages under the tree. Elizabeth explained that she was attending the hospital Christmas party but would make her appearance brief. Jason offers to go with her. He thinks he's ready to emerge after being on hiatus for almost a month. He hopes to see Michael. Elizabeth suggests letting Sonny know first. Jason agrees and calls to tell Sonny he's back but not ready to return.

After Alan reads the Christmas Story previously held by Steve Hardy, the children, in their padded feet, return to their rooms. Jason watches from afar to see the other children attending the party. Sonny is with Letecia, Max, and Michael. Monica, Alan, Emily, Edward, and Lila are near the 5th floor Nurse's Station. Elizabeth sees Jason lurking in the corner and tells her Gram she'll be back. Steven and her father are working in the ER.

Elizabeth walks to Jason and says, "Are you going to stare or join the rest of us?"

"I'm ready. Will you be by my side? I want to make a statement to Sonny."

" Okay, let's go." Jason walks toward Sonny with his arm around Elizabeth. The Quartermaines gasp, glad to see he is alive.

Sonny says, "Jason," he nods, "Elizabeth. Where have you been this past month?"

"Moreno shot me. I fired back, and Sorel finished him off. Sorel is in hiding."

Sonny is surprised to hear Jason revealing this in front of Elizabeth. "Are you back, or do you need more time? I assume you've received proper medical care?"

"I'm not ready to return, and you know why."

Sonny nods sheepishly, "Okay, take your time. Elizabeth, I'm sorry for what happened to you. It won't happen again."

Surprised, she says, "Make sure it doesn't."

Jason walks to Michael and hands the globe to Letecia. He thanks her for caring for Michael. He kneels to Michael and holds him. "I've missed you. I'll visit soon."

Jason looks over to the Quartermaines, who have been waiting patiently. He walks over and leans to kiss Lila's cheek. Monica opens her arms, and Jason allows her to hug him. Emily runs into his arms and glares at Elizabeth. "You knew where he was this entire time. You never said he was with you."

"Emily, I didn't want anyone to know. Elizabeth respected my choices. This is on me, not her."

Jason promises the Quartermaines to visit after Christmas. Elizabeth grabs his arms and whispers, "You should get back and rest. You still have a week before Steven will release you."

They return to the studio. Elizabeth undresses him, cleans his wound, reapplies his bandage, and covers him. Jason promptly falls asleep.

Elizabeth visits Milo, drinks tequila, and calls Italy, waking Francesca. After reminiscing, Francesca promises a visit in the New Year.

Milo, Jason, and Elizabeth celebrate Christmas the following day and exchange gifts. Elizabeth hands Jason the keys to his bike, which she brought over from the PH lot.

12/31/1999

Jason and Elizabeth prepare for a walk in the woods to choose a place to plant the Christmas tree. He admires the white cap, scarf, and gloves he got for her. Smiling, "Against your skin, you look pure and innocent. If people knew your true nature, they'd be shocked at how seductive you can be. He envelopes her in his arms and claims her lips. She responds. She leads him to the woods, and they choose a spot to plant the tree in the spring.

Elizabeth brought a champagne bottle and said, "Steven says you are clear for regular activities. I want to celebrate and ring in the New Year."

Jason pops the bottle, and they countdown to the year 2000. He kisses her tenderly at first and then fiercely. They hurriedly undress each other and tentatively make love. Elizabeth traces his wound, still read and healing. He holds her in his arms. "Elizabeth, I'm leaving in the morning."

"Where will you go?"

"I don't know. I need to clear my head and I can't do that in PC. I hate leaving you, but I need to do this alone."

"You still haven't told me everything."

"I will when I return. I love you."

"I love you too."

1/1/2000

Jason packs his bag and carries it to the door. "Thank you for saving my life."

"Come back soon and safe."

Jason leaves wearing the shirt she gave him.