Previous Page     Next Page

Chapter 41

"Laura?"

The woman was quiet, staring out the window and Alexis bit her lip, worried that the news Nikolas had delivered today would prove to be too much. Everyone was concerned over her mental state, having watched her break and fade away from them before.

Stepping a few feet into the room, Alexis hesitantly tried again, this time a little louder. "Laura?"

The other woman stiffened and Alexis felt relief that her former sister-in-law hadn't slipped back into catatonia. "Laura, do you need anything?"

She stepped back when Laura spun around, wiping her face even as her eyes sparked with anger. "What do you want, Alexis?"

"I-I just wanted to...to see how you were."

"How I am?" the blonde asked. "I just found out that Luke is dead. That Helena killed yet another member of my family. Luke and his son were found...mangled...decomposing. Even in her sick and twisted games she had to rob them of all dignity and spit on them. My son, my daughter and my ex-husband...all butchered like they were nothing."

"I know," Alexis said softly. "Helena is relentless. Sam-"

"Don't!"

The brunette blinked at the pure venom in the word and Laura advanced. "I don't mean to be insensitive, but don't come in here and try to bond with me over our losses. Especially not when one of your daughters is running through this very house. Helena killed my family to annihilate us. And we just left Port Charles and my mother behind. But Nikolas was out searching for your other daughter while we've been here with your daughter and his son and he had to be reminded that he left his grandmother unprotected."

"He's concerned for Leslie."

"But he won't risk bringing her here," the other woman countered angrily. "But I'm sure that if he found Molly he would bring her right to you, even though she's with her father. But my mother can be left alone somewhere."

"I'm not your enemy, Laura," Alexis said softly. "I know you're upset right now."

"You're right I'm upset. Luke never stopped playing games and Helena is a complete psychopath. My family is decimated and I'm sick of watching the people around me die. I'm tired of my son never telling me anything."

"He's trying to keep you safe, Laura."

"How many times does he talk to you, Alexis?" she asked pointedly. "Giving you updates, keeping you informed about the search for Molly, asking about Spencer, but when I ask to speak to my mother I get brushed off? You talk almost every day to him, and then pass along information to me as an afterthought. I get looks of pity from you and placated with how busy he is."

"He is busy," the aunt insisted.

"Yes," the blonde nodded sadly. "He's busy becoming like his father. Imperious and proud and expecting everyone to bow to his will and never question him."

"That isn't fair," Alexis angrily charged back, her eyes flaring with indignity on her nephew's behalf. "Nikolas has resisted those darker impulses. He refuses to be like Helena or Stavros. I know you're upset, but you aren't being fair to your son."

"I can only say what I believe, Alexis," the other woman said. "I remember too many days of Stavros keeping me confined to my room and refusing to speak to me or answer my questions. He would dangle the possibility of what I wanted in front of me, but never actually did it. He would send others to talk to me while holding himself out of reach."

Tilting her head she asked, "Does that sound familiar?"

"It may sound similar, but you know it isn't the same," the daughter of Mikkos refuted. "He is not Stavros."

"Well, I will do what I finally did when Stavros held me against my will. I will walk away. From my son. And now from my grandson. I will hate it, it will kill me, but I will not let another Cassadine male play with my life and ignore me and tell me it's for my own good."

Alexis' eyes widened in surprise when Laura went to her closet and pulled out a suitcase. She walked towards the door and when the stunned woman didn't move she said, "Unless you want a bruise you have to explain to the children, you need to move, Alexis."

She stepped to the side, reading the firm intent in Nikolas' mother's eyes. Stunned, she knew she couldn't stop the other woman, but she also knew she had to try. "Laura, he'll want you to stay. He'll worry about you."

"Tell him I'm sorry," she said. "Because I know you have a way to reach him. Me? I'm calling Jason Morgan at the first phone I find."

The she walked away and Alexis ran for the phone to call Nikolas.

"All phones and weapons here," the flat-nosed mountain said as they stopped in front of him. Nikolas submitted to the indignity with barely concealed anger, but John and Francis took it in stride. They never liked feeling vulnerable and defenseless when they went into a meeting, but they had to give a certain amount of respect and trust to the other person to show that they could be trusted. It was simply the way their world worked.

"Mr. Smith will see you now."

John kept his face neutral, even though he wanted to laugh. None of the men around them could be mistaken for a Smith. However, they followed behind the mountain and then stood across a desk from Mr. Smith. The mountain closed the door behind him as he left the room, leaving the four men alone.

"Prince Nikolas," Smith said, his voice thick with a Russian accent. "Who are your associates? I was expecting you to come alone."

"This is Mr. Corelli and Mr. O'Brien," Nikolas stated, his voice tight, betraying his nerves.

When he said nothing further, Francis had to step in to smooth the situation over with his easy charm. "We apologize for arriving without your prior knowledge, Mr. Smith. However, we are working towards a common goal with Prince Nikolas and we felt it was better to receive the knowledge first-hand. And we can share our knowledge and resources, as authorized by our boss Jason Morgan, that Mr. Cassadine might not be aware of."

Smith kept his face neutral, but his eyes did widen when he heard Jason's name. Seeing that the man was listening, John took up the narration. "Prince Nikolas is working with us to stop the men his grandmother hired to kill members of the Spencer and Davis families."

"What makes you think I can help you, Prince?"

When the younger man didn't speak, John pushed him hard in the shoulder. He cleared his throat and said, "I know you were someone my grandmother worked with on several occasions. It means you were trustworthy and you got results. That's why I came to you."

"I am trustworthy," Smith stated. "And I would never betray your grandmother."

Nikolas paused for a moment, and then spoke imperiously. "My grandmother is dead. Cancer ravaged her and finally claimed her. It also imbalanced her mind. She has ordered people to kill members of my family. She has a vision for me. Alone; with only her to guide me from beyond the grave. She is dead now, and I am the Cassadine prince and I do not share her vision. I will not sanction the murders she ordered. So I need to find those men, and I believe you can help me, Mr. Smith."

"Prince Nikolas," Smith began, now sounding more deferential. "My condolences on your loss. I will make some calls and see if I can discover anything."

"With all due respect, Mr. Smith," Francis said, "Mr. Morgan's sons are being threatened because Helena was mistaken in believing they were Spencers. He is very anxious to keep them safe and Prince Nikolas is as well. That is why he will pay whatever he needs to ensure his grandmother's assassins are found as quickly as possible."

Nikolas flinched slightly, but covered it well. "I do not believe you need to see what you can discover, Mr. Smith. I believe you already know exactly where we need to go and who we need to speak to."

Smith was quiet for a moment and then said, "You are correct, Prince Nikolas. Your grandmother did speak to me, and I helped her."

"The name," the younger man spit out angrily.

"I will call him," the older man offered.

John, who had remained standing the entire time even though Nikolas and Francis had sat, was around the desk in an instant and brought the Russian's arm behind him, wrenching it almost to breaking point. Meanwhile, he squeezed the man's throat, preventing him from calling out to his guards outside the door.

"The name," he ground out, his voice a lethal growl. "That name and every other name you know and can think of. Jason Morgan does not play games and he does not accept anything less than complete disclosure, the first time he asks."

Releasing the man, but poising his hands to snap the fool's neck in an instant he commanded once more, "The name. And if for some reason you think about giving false information, know this... Helena Cassadine didn't die of her illness; Jason Morgan put a bullet in her brain. He will not put up with anyone that stands in her way."

It was very quiet and very tense as Smith wrote. Then, with a shaky hand, he held the paper towards Nikolas, but Francis intercepted it. The older guard pulled Nikolas to his feet and said, "Let's go, your highness."

John moved from behind Smith and growled, "Let's hope your information is correct, Mr. Smith, otherwise Mr. Morgan will be extremely unhappy."

"It is correct," the Russian promised earnestly, his voice slightly tremulous from pain. "I swear it on my life."

The guard nodded and went to get his weapon from Smith's people. Then he and the other two men were silent as they went to their car and drove away.

"What was that back there?" Nikolas demanded angrily from the back seat.

"That was us doing what you are incapable of doing," Francis said contemptuously, reaching into his pocket. Then he asked John, "Is it correct?"

"He swore on his life it was," John chuckled, turning and moving further away from the building.

Francis separated the remote on his keys and pushed a button, causing a fireball to explode behind them. Nikolas spun around in his seat and stared out the back window. "What did you do?!"

"Jason is not Luke Spencer," Francis stated simply. "He will not let anyone stand in his way."

"So he'll kill everyone?" the younger man scoffed.

"If he has to," John shrugged. "Now take the list from Francis and call the first man. Find out where he is and order to him to wait and not do anything until you arrive. You may be helping now, but you're still going to lose your house in Aspen because it's doubtful we'll contact everyone on that list by tomorrow."

"I don't see how Jason killing these men makes him any different than my grandmother," Nikolas said with a sneer.

John yanked the wheel to the right and slammed on the brakes and was out and pulling the pompous jerk out of the back before he could react. Francis casually got out and glanced around while John slammed the younger man into the hood of the car.

"Jason has never claimed to be a good man," he hissed into the prince's ear. "But he's not a hypocrite like you, and he has never threatened innocent children like your grandmother. Yes, we will probably kill these men, because we honestly don't think they'll listen to your orders. You're too weak and they know it. But we need the Cassadine Prince to contact them."

He spun the man around, holding him by the lapels to drag him close. The foreheads nearly touched as John growled, "Now, stop acting like a little pansy hiding behind your mommy's skirt and take charge. Call these men and order them not to do anything until you talk to them. Do you understand?"

"Yes," Nikolas breathed out.

John released him and stepped back, but then brought his fist up under the prince's ribs, digging into the soft, fleshy tissue. The younger man wheezed and doubled over, falling onto the asphalt on his silk suit pants. John stalked away and growled at Francis, "Toss his worthless backside into the car, because if I do it I'm likely to smash his head in. I'll call Jason and give him an update."

"Get someone there as soon as possible," Jason commanded firmly into the phone, pacing by the desk. "Call Maximus Giambetti and see if he might be able to help and try Hernandez in Madrid as well. We need to get her protected immediately."

Elizabeth stood in the doorway of the kitchen and looked back over her shoulder at Jake and Cameron who were enjoying a snack at the table. Because Jason didn't normally take calls at the house, she knew this one was important. But she didn't want the boys to overhear it, so she was keeping watch at the doorway. And trying not to feel guilty because she was eavesdropping on the conversation.

"And call Francis and Johnny and let them know," Jason continued. "Nikolas doesn't get a pass on this because it involves Laura."

She frowned, wondering what had happened with Laura, and it deepened when she saw her fiancé's shoulders tense. He ran a hand through his hair and bit off a curse that made her raise her brows and look over her shoulder to make sure the boys were still at the table and didn't hear.

"Get the information," he said through clenched teeth. "Get them any number of guards they need. Then come over to the office and we'll talk."

He punched the button to end the call and dropped the phone on the desk. "The boys still in the kitchen?" he asked, slowly turning around.

"Yeah."

Jason sighed. "I'm sorry about that. But Laura called asking for my help."

Elizabeth frowned and walked towards him. "Laura? Is she okay? I thought she was with Alexis, Kristina and Spencer. Are they okay?"

"As far as we know," he assured her. "She left the place where Nikolas had them."

"Why?"

"She's upset with him because he just told her about Luke and he won't bring Leslie to her, but talks constantly to Alexis." He shrugged. "I don't know, but she called and asked for my help-"

"And you're helping her," she nodded in complete understanding. "You won't leave her unprotected and you don't really care why she left Nikolas' protection. So where were they?"

"Johannesburg."

"Not where you'd first think they'd be," she said as her highbrows went up. "And you don't have men there."

"No," Jason shook his head. "So we're calling some associates to see if they have assets we can use or know someone we can contact. I don't want to leave Laura vulnerable."

She rubbed her hands up his arms and said, "I know. What about Johnny and Francis?"

"I don't know," he shook his head. "They'll keep an eye on Nikolas. They're trying to get information on Helena's people, and he's not being very helpful. He drugged my men when he got Alexis and Laura into hiding with the kids, so I don't care if he claims he wants to protect Laura. She called, asked for my help, and I'm giving it to her; I won't defer to him."

He let out a breath and then said, "But Cody's dealing with it. I'll talk to people if I need to, but there's not much else I can do. So the boys don't have to hide in the kitchen anymore, and I'm sorry about that."

"Don't be," she shook her head. "They're having a snack. I wasn't trying to eavesdrop; I was coming out to offer you a drink. Then I wanted to make sure the boys didn't run in on your phone call."

"I know," he assured her. Then he suggested, "When they're done, we could take them over to the playroom. Or maybe we could take them shopping for what they need for the island."

She shook her head and he looked disappointed. "If we take them shopping now," she tried to explain, "they'll think we're leaving tomorrow. They won't understand it's weeks away; they'll want to leave now. They'll ask every day, many times each day...over and over and over."

Trying to offer him something she said, "But we can start making plans. Figure out what's on the island, what they need, what we can get there, what we should get here. What do you want to do with them while we're there? I was hiding away on the island when I was there, so you know the place better. I'm counting on you, Dad, to help me figure out what we need."

She smiled down at her, kissing her before saying, "We can do that. But you need to let me spoil them a little."

"Did I stop you with the playroom?"

"No," he smiled. "But I'm just pre-empting you saying they don't need something."

"I promise," she told him. "But you have to stop asking about my dress. I'm not going to tell you what I picked out."

"Deal."

"And you should know my gram will keep the dress at her house," she laughed. "Now, let's go get the boys and tell them we can go play."

Chapter 42

"I demand to see him."

Jason looked over at Cody who shook his head in disgust. Francis had called and said the younger man was on his way over, and very unhappy. The mob boss didn't really want to deal with the young prince, but knew it would be easier just to talk to him and then send him on his way. The former soldier rolled his eyes and then stood to open the door.

"Where is she?" Nikolas demanded as he stormed into the office. "Where did you take my mother?"

"Laura is safe," Jason answered evenly. "And not a moment too soon. When my associate reached where she was, he found someone watching her. The man will no longer be a threat, but men were ordered to the area to watch over the compound Laura pointed them to."

"We do not need your men," the younger man stated emphatically. "We do not need your thugs."

"Apparently you do," Cody spoke, the contempt clear in his voice. "Your mother was nearly murdered because of you and your ineptitude."

"Don't put that on me," Nikolas shook his head. He sounded desperate to believe it, and Jason knew he hadn't wanted this responsibility thrust on him. However, he couldn't have any sympathy for the man who refused to do everything he possibly could and instead chose to whine like a child. "She left."

"And why did she leave?" the enforcer asked him. "Because of your behavior and actions. She chose to chance being killed rather than stay under your protection. Whether you want to admit it or accept it, that's the truth."

"She's safe," Jason said kindly. "And she's very worried about her mother. It would greatly help her if Leslie could join her. You can speak with her; we'll give you a number you can reach her at."

Nikolas looked away and Jason sighed, "Francis said you found two of the men your grandmother hired."

"Yes."

"They've been eliminated."

"Yes," Nikolas bit out.

"Did you think it would happen a different way?" Cody asked scornfully. "Did you think you could just order them to not kill anyone and they'd obey? Or that we'd actually trust that?"

The younger man's jaw clenched and Jason knew the prince had found out he was actually powerless and insignificant, despite what he'd been raised to believe. He had resisted his heritage, and now he wielded no power.

"You found they were more loyal to Helena, even in death, than a live prince," Jason said bluntly. "We can't leave men like that free to kill. They were tracking down Ric and Molly, chasing down the false trails Ric's created. They would have kept going; never stopping until your cousin was dead."

"Do you know where they are?" Nikolas asked. "Ric and Molly?"

"No," he shook his head. "Because they aren't our focus. We're searching for the men your grandmother hired. If you would like our help, we can have our man see what he can find. But you need to ask."

"It would help Alexis," the younger man made himself say.

"It would help your mother to have her mother," he countered. "So we'll have our computer man do a search. However, I want to know what the men you found told you."

"We got another name," Nikolas answered, defeat sounding in his voice. "I have called him. He is reluctant to meet, so I must give him an offering. That is why I needed to return to Port Charles."

"And rushed right over here to huff at Jason," Cody sneered.

"I need you to stop," the younger man said, a note of plaintiveness entering his voice. "My people are packing up my Aspen home and they cannot keep doing this. I need them to work for me and help me."

"They do," the former soldier said. "But there are consequences for not producing results."

"These things take time!" he insisted.

"You've had time," Jason growled. "You just aren't being forceful and focused. You found some people, but there are still more. We don't know for certain if there are people here that are a threat to Elizabeth and our boys and I won't stop until I know for sure. So keep going. Give this person whatever he wants and get the next names. Stop screwing around and don't ever come in here and think you can lecture me. Get out of my office."

"Let's go, Prince Nicky," John said, speaking up for the first time and clapping his hand on the younger man's shoulder. He dragged him towards the door and said, "You've got work to do."

Francis stayed behind and waited until John and Nikolas were gone before closing the door and asking, "How are Elizabeth and the boys doing?"

"Good," he answered. "Elizabeth had a doctor's appointment and she's healing well. He thinks she won't have the sling for much longer. Maybe even just a week."

"That's really good to hear," the older guard said with obvious pleasure. "So then your wedding will be soon?"

Jason nodded.

"The island?" the older man asked. "I thought maybe you would have chosen somewhere else. I remember her talking about Italy, and mentioning you."

"The island is protected," he replied. "I can control the guards and surveillance and even access. I can't do that completely with Italy."

Francis nodded in understanding, but asked, "What about Max's dad?"

"Max mentioned his dad has some land there, but I already asked a favor of Maximus; I control the island completely." He sighed and said, "I want to take Elizabeth to Italy, but I don't know if Helena's got men poised to go after Elizabeth and the boys, but I'm operating under the belief that she does. I won't take chances taking them somewhere I can't control as much as I can."

"Understandable," his friend nodded. "Have there been any indicators of her people around Port Charles?"

"No," the mob boss shook his head. "But we almost didn't see the men after Laura and Alexis."

"Those also weren't our men," the man pointed out.

"Whether we want to admit or not, Helena's men are good. She wouldn't have hired them if they weren't. Our guards were killed before Sam was murdered."

"True," Francis acknowledged softly. "So of course you aren't taking chances for your wedding. John and I will do all we can with Nikolas and put pressure on the other men we talk to."

"Blowing up Smith might help persuade everyone else we're serious."

"That's why we did it," the older man shrugged. "So I'll go join John and Nikolas and we'll meet with the next man."

"Thank you, Francis," he said, relieved to know one of the men he trusted most was working diligently in this area. "Keep us informed about what you find."

Looking over at Cody, he nodded and promised, "I will."

Then he left and the enforcer stood. "I'll talk with the lead detail on the island and make sure they're doing frequent sweeps. We'll halt incoming flights a couple of days before the actual wedding and close the docks along with restricting access to certain areas. We'll do all we can to keep you and your family safe."

"Thank you, Cody," he said gratefully, although his worry didn't entirely ease. "They're everything to me."

"Everyone knows that," the younger man responded. "And nobody wants to let you down."

"I'm going to get you!" Jake squealed as he chased after Cameron. The older brother ran fast enough to make it fun, but not so fast as to make it frustrating for his little brother.

"No, you can't," he laughed, running around the little play table.

"Yes, I will," the younger boy insisted.

Elizabeth laughed as she watched them, loving the way they were having fun and were safe and relaxed enough to enjoy the simple freedom to be little boys. The chase paused for a moment and she watched, wondering what would happen. Did Jake realize he'd never catch his bigger brother, or was this break in the game simply to rest before it resumed? Jake turned and went towards the little scooters they had and called to Cam to ride.

The door opened and she looked up, smiling when she saw their guest.

"Gram!" The boys abandoned their scooters and ran towards her.

"Hello, boys," she greeted them, bending down to hug them. "It's good to see you."

"Hello, Gram," Elizabeth smiled. "Come in. Boys, let Gram come sit down."

"I brought cookies," the older woman smiled at them all. "Is there milk here, or do we need to go over to your place?"

"We have stuff here," Elizabeth answered. "Snacks, cups, plates, drinks...it's all in the kitchen."

She started to get up, but her grandmother waved her back down. "Come on, boys," she called to them. "You can help me."

They followed after her and Elizabeth looked over in surprise when the door opened again. Jason stepped in, his eyes scanning the room and then brightening when he saw her. He crossed the room and leaned over her on the couch, pressing a kiss to her lips. The quick peck gave way to a slow caress and then an even slower, lingering moment.

"Daddy!"

He stood up quickly, a bit embarrassed before he greeted them. "Hello, boys. Hello, Mrs. Hardy."

"Hello, Jason," the older woman greeted him evenly. Elizabeth felt her cheeks burn at having been caught by her grandmother, but she managed to push it back. After all, she hadn't been doing anything wrong; Jason was her fiancé and she wasn't a teenager. She wasn't going to hide or feel embarrassed because she was kissing him.

"Boys, let's take our cookies over to your house," Gram suggested. "Then Mommy and Daddy can talk."

Elizabeth looked at Jason and he nodded, understanding her unspoken plea. "Actually, how 'bout I take the boys over to the penthouse? I know you probably want to talk to Elizabeth about wedding plans and I'm sure she could use a break and relax. We'll leave you a few cookies so they don't get eaten up entirely before you get over there."

"Just a few, Daddy," Cameron begged with unflappable honesty.

"Only a few," he promised, biting back a smile. "Now give Mommy and Gram a hug; then we'll go have cookies and milk and find something to do."

"Actually," Elizabeth spoke up. "We'll go to the penthouse; that way the boys can continue to play."

After a brief moment spent figuring out how many cookies they could safely take and not deprive Cameron and Jake, the two women walked across the hallway, nodding at the guard as he opened the door for them. "Thank you, Greg."

Once they were inside and sitting, Elizabeth took a breath and then asked, "So...what did you find out from the doctor yesterday?"

"I..." she paused and Elizabeth felt worry wrap around her spine and her stomach knot. "The doctor found an issue with my heart."

"Your heart?" the younger woman breathed out in fear. "You didn't say they were running tests on your heart."

"They weren't just testing my heart," her grandmother tried to counter. Yet she did admit, "However, the doctor did suspect given some of my previous blood levels and symptoms."

There was no sense arguing and so Elizabeth moved on. It was time to find out what was wrong, and more importantly, what could be done.

"So what is it?" she asked. "And what does he say?"

"I need to see a cardiologist," her grandmother told her.

"So you'll go to Dr. Quatermaine, right?" she immediately asked.

"She's actually at a conference," the older woman shook her head. "So I'm seeing Dr. Mojovarian."

Elizabeth nodded, knowing he was very good. "But what did your tests find?"

"My heart is getting weak," was her answer. "The valves are weakening so my heart has to pump harder, which is what's making me tired. And certain chem levels are low."

"So you have to discuss possible surgery," the younger nurse stated. "A graft, or valve replacement."

Her grandmother nodded with resignation. "Most likely. Although I'm not sure."

Elizabeth frowned. "Gram?"

"I've lived a very full life, darling," the older woman replied. "I'm mostly retired, even though I still do a few things at the hospital. Maybe I need to finally step down completely. There are medicals that could help; the initial tests suggest we caught this early."

With a shake of her head she continued, "I know what this surgery entails and what the recovery is like and I have to admit, I don't want to rush straight into surgery."

Still dealing with the after effects and pain of her surgery, the younger woman could understand her grandmother's sentiment. The recovery from the potential surgery was long and not always easy. Given her grandmother's age it was understandable that she'd want to try medication first. But she wasn't going to let her grandmother simply fade away.

"I understand," Elizabeth said. "But remember that you have family who want you here with us for a long time. Steven hasn't even married, yet. And maybe one day you'll have more great-grandchildren to love and spoil."

"A little girl," the older woman smiled wistfully, reaching out to brush her hand on her granddaughter's cheek. "I would love a little girl...another you."

Elizabeth felt her eyes mist with tears. "Then you understand why we want you healthy and with us. So you listen to your doctor, Gram, and if he says you need surgery, then you have surgery. And if you can't fly, then we'll-"

"No," Gram interrupted. "We aren't going there until we hear more from Dr. Mojovarian. Stop thinking worst case, Elizabeth; we must be positive."

"I love you so much, Gram," she said, scooting closer to hug the older woman. "You helped raise me; you've been there for me and I want you with me for as long as I can have you."

"I know, darling," her grandmother said, running her hand softly over the younger woman's hair as she had so many times in the past. "I know, and I love you, too. And one day, I'll see you hold your little girl."

"I need this done immediately."

John paused as he stepped out of the bathroom and cocked his head as Nikolas' hissed voice carried through the vent into the hallway. He looked over as Francis walked into the apartment, closing his phone and the older man paused, lifting a brow in question when his friend held up his hand to stop him. John tilted his hand towards the vent and the prince's voice carried out of the bedroom a moment later.

"I will not allow Jason Morgan to ruin me," the older man spit out. "I want him dealt with."

Francis moved with a speed that surprised the young guard and sent the door flying open. The doorknob sank into the wall and John knew the security deposit was forfeit. Francis grabbed the phone and snapped it shut, tossing it to John with one hand while hauling Nikolas to his feet. Once his hand was empty he sank his fist into the prince's fleshy belly. The younger man's breath rushed out as he folded over, straight into the knee the guard brought up to break the prince's nose.

"What are you doing?" Francis demanded angrily. "You're calling someone to go after Jason? We have to drag you to meetings to find the assassins your grandmother has sent after your family and friends, but now you're calling someone to go after Jason?"

The prince looked decidedly unprincely when he spit blood on the ground and tried to straighten but couldn't. "I have a son," he said. "I won't let Jason ruin me. I want to protect his legacy."

"And Jason is protecting his sons' lives," the older guard ground out as he sunk his fist into the other man's stomach again. "It hardly compares."

"We don't know that men are after Elizabeth's boys," the young protested to the floor, unable to look up.

"And we have no proof they aren't," John said, knowing he needed to interject himself into the moment or Francis might just beat the man unconscious and then they wouldn't be able to make their meeting later. "You miss your son; well at least he's safe with Alexis and his cousin. We killed the assassins that were after them because you did such a bang up job hiding them. We learned from Smith that Helena didn't hire multiple assassins for each target; she was confident that they would kill the mark, then they disappear and nobody traces them to the next death because they're gone, so he's safe now."

"And now," Francis chimed in again, his teeth clenched together so tight John's teeth hurt. "Instead of doing everything in your power to make sure another person doesn't die, you're moving against Jason 'cause you've gotten your widdle feelings hurt. You are weak, you are pathetic and you don't impress me. You think you can make the rules; you think you don't have to do something you don't want to? Well, when I get through with you, you will understand just how serious I am."

"Francis."

The older man looked over at John and snapped, "What?! He deserves this; you know he does."

"I wasn't going to stop you," he shook his head. "I was just going to suggest you move away from the window. That way there isn't aren't any suspicious shadows that will make people wonder. Other than that?"

He shrugged, "Deposit's already blown...just try not to get too much blood on the carpet; it's a bear to get out. And don't make him lose consciousness forever; we do have a meeting with Adams later."

Then he walked away and left Francis to take his frustration out on the younger man. He needed to make a phone call to Jason.

Chapter 43

A hand clamped over his mouth as he stepped out of the hotel room to get ice and Ric knew this was it; he'd been found and he and his daughter were dead. He tried to throw his elbow back, but the hold was tight.

"Relax, Ric," a familiar voice sounded in his ear and he wondered what Max was doing here. "We're not going to hurt you. We're here to get you and Molly to safety."

The lawyer couldn't process at first what the guard was saying. Not with so many questions bouncing around his brain. How had Morgan's men found him? Why was the mobster even looking for him? And what would he do to Ric now that Sonny no longer was around to temper Jason's hatred?

"No, we're not going to hurt you," Max continued, keeping his voice even. "We don't want to frighten your daughter, but we need to leave."

"With you?" Ric asked as Max finally removed his hand.

"We could leave you here and let Anthony Zacharra's men get you," the other man answered indifferently. "The old man's crazy and his son gave his property and holdings to Jason, but Anthony hasn't let go of the fact that you promised you'd get him out of prison. He managed to get word out and sent someone after you."

Ric felt his heart leap to his throat and it began to race. Anthony was out of his mind and that made the already dangerous man even more deadly. The lawyer wasn't stupid enough to dismiss the threat, but he couldn't help asking, "Why does Jason care?"

"He doesn't really care about you," Max said bluntly. "He doesn't want your daughter to get hurt. Helena had someone after you, but Nikolas managed to find and stop him. However, Anthony has people after you, and Jason doesn't want Molly to die."

"But me, I can go to the devil?" he asked contemptuously.

"Jason doesn't like you," the guard shrugged honestly. "He's never hidden that."

"And now that Sonny's dead all bets are off?"

"Do you want to stand here and argue, or do you want to get to safety? Do you want to take your chances with Anthony's men on your own? Or do you want to get you and your daughter to safety?"

Ric didn't, and he knew Max knew that. He was trapped with no choice but to trust Jason Morgan; a man who may try to kill him once they were safe.

"Fine," he nodded in resignation. "Let me get Molly."

"Take them to safe house six," Jason commanded Max. "I want to talk to Ric before we decide what we're going to do with them."

Then he hung up the phone and looked over at Cody. "They got them. Ric and Molly are in a car on the way to the airport."

"They'll go to a safe house once they get here?"

The mobster nodded. "I want to talk to Ric. I agree with John; he was part of Sonny's order to kill me. He knew, or he encouraged it, and he wanted it."

"With you gone, he would be Sonny's most trusted advisor," the former soldier nodded. "He hated you for being closer to Sonny than he was. He wanted Sonny to trust him the way he trusted you. So while there was some distance between the two of you he capitalized on it. And he knew that you'd reconciled before so before that happened this time, he needed you gone completely."

Jason ran a hand over his face and then rested his elbow on the desk. "It seems likely, but I also know we may never find out. And maybe it doesn't matter. I know Sonny wanted me dead and it didn't happen. He's dead, so what does it really matter, now?"

The two men were quiet for a moment and Jason let out a breath. "But I'll talk to him anyways; see if we get anything. Now...what about Nikolas and the others?"

The enforcer lifted his eyebrows and then said, "It seems the prince is a little unhappy with you and they found him making a call; trying to get someone to go after you. Take you out."

Jason wasn't really surprised by the news; he'd had many people order hits on him before. And he'd been hitting Nikolas hard and relentlessly and it was bound to upset the guy. But it disgusted Jason that the other man wasted his energy on that instead of finding Helena's assassins.

"So what happened?"

"Francis let him know in no uncertain terms how he felt about that," Cody said with malevolent pleasure. "Broke his nose; worked him over; maybe even cracked a rib or two. He's going to be sore, but they'll make sure he's at the meting they have set up."

"Good," Jason said bluntly. "He doesn't find out we have Ric and Molly yet. I won't keep Molly away from her mother, but the Casadines haven't been helpful, and I can't forget Alexis lied to Sonny about Kristina. Molly is with a parent, and I'm not going to run a ferry service for them."

"John said they were going to meet with someone the last assassins they dealt with told them about. Probably a killer."

Licking his lips he said, "Let's hope he is. The last name they tried didn't pan out; he hadn't taken the job. We got the men watching Alexis and Laura; we need to find the men she hired to come after Elizabeth and the boys as well as who she sent after Bobbie and Carly's boys."

"And we will," Cody promised, as he did every time they talked about how slow this process was. "But you know how long it took for us to find Helena in the tunnels. We've searched every piece of property in Port Charles the Cassadines were even remotely attached to. But there are lots of places to hide and you keep your boys inside so we haven't flushed them out."

"I will not use my boys as bait," Jason growled fiercely.

Cody immediately shook his head. "I would never even suggest it. It means we just have to search harder, but every man is willing to do that because nobody wants those boys hurt. That's why we search every day, every abandoned building, every access and vantage point around the Towers. It's why we have a team guarding Miss Webber's house so nobody gets into it. We would give our lives before we let something happen to your family."

He shrugged nonchalantly and said, "It's also why John and Francis will work over the esteemed prince for not doing enough and being worthless."

"I want every Cassadine property," Jason commanded. "Everywhere. Anywhere. I don't care. He's homeless from now on."

"We were going after his hospital stock," Cody pointed out.

"We do both, now," the mob boss commanded. "Apparently our attempts to motivate him have failed, so now we go for pure revenge. We bury him and we make him hurt."

"With pleasure," his second smiled as he stood. "Diane will enjoy this as well. Elizabeth introduced the boys to her and while she says she normally doesn't like children, your boys charmed her and she can't believe Nikolas isn't doing everything possible to protect them."

Jason nodded and then said, "Let me know when Ric arrives and when you hear from John and Francis. I've got some books to go over with Bernie and then Elizabeth is finally getting her sling off. Didn't happen at the last appointment, but Dr. Williams says it will be today."

"Then we'll handle everything while you're with her," the younger man promised. "And tell her congrats."

Elizabeth smiled as she walked out of Dr. Williams' office and looked over at Jason. She cautiously moved her arm, rotating it and stretching her shoulder. It twinged slightly, and it felt weird to move it after having it immobilized for so long, but it also felt so good.

"I can move it again," she grinned broadly. "It's wonderful."

Jason smiled down at her, "Just take it easy. It may not be a bad idea to do a little physical therapy like Dr. Williams suggested."

"I know," she nodded as they walked towards the nurses' hub. Jason held her hand and there was a part of her that marveled over it. For so long they had hidden their relationship, acting like they barely knew each other, and now they were walking down the hall where she worked, holding hands. "That's what I plan to do."

A smile grew on her face as they approached the hub and she saw her boss. "Hello, Epiphany."

The charge nurse looked up and pretended to scowl, but there was a twinkle in her eye and a smile in her voice. "Well, if it isn't my wayward nurse. I was beginning to wonder if I'd merely imagined you. Are you here to get back on the schedule?"

"No," Elizabeth shook her head, grateful to have a reason to avoid this particular subject for a little longer. "I actually need to make an appointment for some physical therapy."

"You got your sling off," the older nurse grinned broadly. "That is wonderful news. How does it feel?"

"Good," she smiled. "A little stiff. Feels a little weird to move it."

"Well, a few sessions of physical therapy should help with that," her friend said, typing a few commands at the computer before saying, "There's an availability tomorrow at two. Get you in, give you an evaluation and see what they want to do."

"Let's do that," Elizabeth agreed. "I want to get a feel for how much work they think I need to do. Because I have something coming up I want to be in good shape for."

"Oh?" the older woman asked. Then her eyes widened as Elizabeth held up her left hand and wiggled her fingers to show her engagement ring. "Oh. You're getting married."

She looked sternly at Jason and said, "It's about time you snatched this girl up and realized she made you a better man."

"Yes, ma'am," he said and Elizabeth looked at him and then rolled her eyes as she looked back to her friend.

"Be nice," she said.

"Okay," Epiphany said. Then with a sincere smile she added, "Congratulations, you two. I am happy for you. You keep me informed with the big day is, and give those boys a hug for me."

"I will," the younger woman promised. "Thanks, Epiphany."

"You take care of her, Mr. Morgan," the nurse commanded Jason. "Make sure she doesn't push too hard."

He put his hand at Elizabeth's waist and promised, "I will. Always."

The gruff nurse smiled and said, "You do that."

Then she turned back to her duties and the couple walked to the elevator and onto the waiting car the guards had called. As they descended to the parking garage, Elizabeth looked up at him and asked, "Could we stop somewhere on the way home?"

He looked over at her in concern and asked, "Are you okay?"

"Yes," she said in assurance. "I just wanted to talk before we got home and my grandmother will probably have dinner prepared for us. There was something I wanted to talk to you about and it will probably be easier before the boys are clamoring all over us and want to talk about the wedding and when it will happen."

He looked a little uncertain, but he agreed and so when they got to the car he told their guard to go to the coffee shop. They would be alone, and yet safe, so it would work. Plus, she could get a really good iced coffee to give her the energy to deal with the boys' rambunctiousness they were sure to have once Mom and Dad arrived home.

Jason wasn't sure what Elizabeth wanted to talk about, but he wasn't thinking it would be good. Not if her increasing nervousness was any indication. She was twisting her finger in the hem of her shirt, over and over, without probably even being aware of it. She was quiet as they walked into the back door of the office and didn't say much beyond politely giving her order to their guard who offered to get them something to drink.

"Elizabeth?"

She jumped slightly and then let out a breath. "I'm sorry. I've just been debating with myself."

"About what?" he coaxed softly.

"I don't want you to feel like I'm pressuring you," she frowned. "I just wanted to talk...about your family. I know you aren't close, and it's entirely your choice. I just...even at the moments I was ready to walk away from my grandmother because I wouldn't fight with her over you and my choices, I still would think about her. I know with Lila and Emily gone you..."

"Have talked with Monica some," he filled in when she trailed off. "But not always. It's not always easy."

"I know," she said quietly. "But they know about Jake and they may have heard from others we're getting married. I just...I would have felt awkward if we'd run into Monica, but this isn't my call. But I also don't want to force you to do something you don't want to do."

She licked her lips and then said, "But she is my co-worker, and I remember her kindness towards me when Emily and I would hang-out together and I'm just not sure exactly what to do."

"I know," he sighed. "And I probably should have talked to Monica. I don't care about Tracy or whatever Edward's done to her. When he told me about Alan's will he just couldn't resist making his digs about me and my choices and trying to say it was my duty to follow Alan's wishes and wants and come to ELQ to act as proxy for the shares. I hung up and haven't answered any more calls...and so I didn't talk to Monica because I just didn't want to deal with anymore aggravation."

He sighed and admitted. "It really wasn't fair to her. I just..."

"Jason," Elizabeth reached out and placed her hand on his arm. "I am not trying to make you feel guilty or challenge your choices. I just...I'm not sure what to say. To her, to you, or even to the boys."

Letting out a breath he said, "I don't either. After Lila and Alan's deaths...I tried to reach out to her more. Then after Emily's death and she began drinking...it was harder. Then when all the killings began and I was focused on keeping everyone safe, and then after the whole thing with the will and Edward...I just stayed away."

He shrugged and continued regretfully, "I ignored her because I didn't want to deal with Edward."

Jason looked at his fiancée and then confessed, "I don't know what to say to her. I feel like I should tell her I'm getting married, but then I feel like I would just be cruel if I didn't invite her."

Elizabeth looked at him and said, "This is your decision, Jason. I will not pressure you."

Reaching out, she took his hands in hers and rubbed her thumbs softly across the backs. "This is your decision and I will support you just as you supported me with my gram."

"It would probably mean a lot to her," he said. "And she has tried to reach out to me and we have gotten along better at times. I want her to know her grandsons and I want them to know her. The rest of the Quartermaines...I don't know."

He ran his hand across his mouth and said, "I want to tell her. I ignored her because it was easier to just not deal with her; to just focus on protecting you and ignore everything else. But it was wrong, and I need to tell her; it's the right thing to do."

"If that's what you really want to do, Jason, then I'll support you," she told him. "Just like I would have if you didn't want to."

"I know," he said, moving her onto his lap and giving her a kiss. "You were right to bring this up. I compartmentalize and focus on certain things and then realize I should have done something else, or talked to someone when I was so focused on one thing I didn't think of anything or anyone else."

Jason let out a sad breath and said, "I did that to you before, and I'm sorry. So I need you to help remind me to remember the other things I need to do. The other people around me."

When she frowned slightly, the skin between her eyebrows creasing, he pulled her closer, resting her head against his shoulder. "I know I've gotten so focused on one thing that I didn't even think of how you might be feeling, and I don't want to do that to you again. Or to the boys. And you can help me not forget what's really important."

"You know what's important, Jason," she told him, her hand rubbing softly over his chest. "But if you need a little reminder from time to time, then I will. But I also have faith that I won't have to do it very often. Because I know just how much you love your family."

"I do," he breathed into her neck. "I love you so much, Elizabeth."

He could hear the smile in her voice as she answered, "I know. I love you, too."

He was peppering kisses on her neck when her voice made him pause. "Do you know what else I love?"

"What?"

"That's is all your office now," she said, surprising him with her answer. "I remember when I saw you in here a couple of times, sitting behind the desk, looking so powerful and in charge…it was very…exciting. I entertained several fantasies about you and this office after that."

Instantly he was intrigued and aroused. "Oh?"

Her hand trailed seductively down his chest. "Yes."

"Then maybe it is a good thing I'm in charge now," he said before he captured her lips in a bruising kiss.

Nobody would just walk right into his office, and it was unlikely anyone would knock soon. He couldn't believe she'd just confessed to having fantasies of him here, but he wasn't going to pass this opportunity up. Or to waste a chance to show her just how much he loved her.

Chapter 44

Nikolas Cassadine looked awful. Francis had worked him over good yesterday and while the blood may have been washed away, the swelling was in full force. Along with deep purple and black bruises blossoming along his jaw and spreading upwards to both eyes. Jason looked at him dispassionately, actually admiring the rage and strength Francis had displayed.

"So," he said quietly, the word ringing through the silent room. Cody stood behind him and Francis and John were stiff sentinels on either side of the traitorous prince seated across from him. All four men were quiet and imposing and the obviously injured man shifted frequently on his chair. "You tried to hire someone to come after me."

The room fell silent, but Jason wasn't in any hurry to break it. He knew it made the other man uncomfortable and he wanted the prince to feel that way. The quiet stretched, only broken by the increasingly frequent shifts of a man with broken ribs who was trying to find some relief from his pain. Apparently John had only provided Nikolas with Tylenol, and was being a little stingy with passing it out.

"You're taking my son's legacy," he finally burst out.

"And I'm trying to protect my sons' lives," Jason countered. "After protecting your son's life. Along with your aunt and cousins."

When the younger man reacted he nodded, "That's right; we found Ric and Molly."

"Then you have to return to Molly to Alexis," the prince insisted. "Immediately; it's only right."

"Why?" he asked, lifting his brows. "She's with her father. Ric has joint custody; something Alexis was going to disregard when she planned to run with his daughter. Just like she disregarded Sonny's rights to his daughter."

"He was a killer," Nikolas spit out.

"And so is Alexis," he replied, reminding the younger man of Luis Alcazar. "And so was your grandmother. And you were looking for someone to deal with me. Did you really just plan to lock me up, or were you hoping I'd be dead?"

The other man looked away and Jason nodded. "Right. You wanted me dead. So stop acting like you are better than me. Especially since you haven't called Laura or brought your grandmother to her."

"You've also ignored our offer to fly Dr. Webber there," Cody interjected.

Jason leaned forward, resting his forearms on his desk. "I'm going to be blunt. I'm going to crush you, Cassadine. I've never liked you. You're pompous and arrogant; you hurt Elizabeth and my sister, and now you're standing in my way."

Arching his brow at the man across from him he said, "Every piece of property, every piece of stock, every car, boat or plane will be mine by the end of the week. The only thing you'll have left is the one thing I can't touch; your island off Greece. But don't worry, as soon as I make some contacts in Greece - and let's be honest, with their financial difficulties, I'll get some soon - I'll own that island. And everything you've hidden away there."

The other man paled under his bruises and Jason continued, "So for now, you'll be my guest at one of my houses. John and Francis will work on the information you managed to get out of Adams yesterday. They've babysat you long enough and I'm not going to make them put up with you any longer. You're just slowing them down and they'll work ten times faster now that they won't have to drag you along trying to get you to help them."

"You need me," Nikolas tried to protest.

The four other men in the room laughed derisively at the weak man's attempt to sound important. "No," Jason said, "we don't. But if for some reason the Morgan name and reputation doesn't work, then we'll know right where to find you."

He nodded at Cody who crossed the room and opened the door to the alley. Four guards stepped into the room and roughly gathered Nikolas, dragging him out the back door to the waiting SUV. The enforcer closed the door and the four men relaxed. Nobody had expected the man to be so difficult to work with. They'd thought he would fight against his grandmother's assassins, but apparently his resentment towards Jason for killing Helena had just run too deep. Now Francis and John could work on finding the other killers without having to constantly fight him.

"So, what did you find out yesterday?" he asked his two friends.

"Got a name," Francis said.

"What about the guy you met with earlier?" Cody asked. "The guy Nikolas had to give a token to?"

"He took it and said he'd contact us when he got something," John rolled his eyes.

It didn't take a genius to know they never would hear from the man. Instead, Jason asked, "Do you know where he is?"

"We've put men on him," John informed him.

"Then go talk to him," Jason commanded. "And find out what he knows. Get these men. I want people safe. I want Elizabeth and the boys safe."

"We'll get on it right away," Francis assured him.

"Good," Jason said as he stood. "Because I've got to go talk to Ric."

John smirked, although his anger was clearly simmering underneath. "Good luck with that."

On the surface, the house was wonderful. Comfortable, stocked with toys and food Molly liked, and it had things to keep him occupied and entertained as well. But Ric knew it was simply a prison; designed to hold him until Jason Morgan came to kill him.

A guard walked into the room, smiling at Molly when she looked up, but directing a hard look at Ric that made a shiver go down the lawyer's spine. It wasn't just a normal walk-through the room - those happened frequently; there was something else in his look that made Ric worry. It was reinforced when two more guards walked into the room and took up posts.

"Mr. Morgan is coming to talk to you," the lead guard, Chad, informed him. "David will stay here with Molly."

It was an order from the man, just as every other communication had been since Morgan's men had found them and brought them here. None of the guards had ever interacted with Ric before; he didn't think they'd even worked for Sonny a few months ago. They were firmly Jason Morgan's men, and would be completely loyal to mobster, ignoring any attempts he made to get them to his side.

"Can I say good-bye to my daughter?" he asked, trying to keep his voice even. He knew this was it; he was going to die.

He crossed the room and knelt down beside Molly. "Hey, sweetie," he said, trying to keep his tone light. "Daddy has to go out for a few minutes, Molly. David is going to stay here, okay?"

"'Kay," she nodded, waving at David with a bright smile.

Reaching out, the grief-stricken father hugged his daughter, knowing this would be the last time he saw her. At least she would go to Alexis and Kristina, and she probably wouldn't be too traumatized by his sudden disappearance given her young age. He could only hope Morgan reunited her with her family soon.

"I love you," he whispered to her, and then stood. Looking at Chad he said, "Okay, I'm ready."

"Let's go," the guard said, grabbing his arm. Bill fell right into step beside them.

They went outside, but didn't go to a waiting car to drive somewhere. Instead, they walked across the heavily wooded property to a building that could be a garage or a workshop. They stepped inside and Ric knew it was a kill room. Bare floors covered with an easy-to-clean coating. The room was practically bare; only a few items along the walls. All of them easy to clean, or be replaced without looking out of place.

"Have a seat," Chad told him, pushing him towards a chair in the middle of the room.

It was cold; there was no heat and a storm was moving in. He sat down waiting, trying not to show his fear, but it had to be clear to the others. This entire room was meant to intimidate him and make him scared. It was working, as was Morgan's delay in arriving; just as they'd meant to happen. Despite not wanting to give into it, he grew more frightened the longer he sat there and nearly jumped out of his skin when the door finally opened and Jason walked in.

The bald ex-soldier Ric had seen around town followed Jason and dismissed the guards. The men left and the lawyer realized this must be Jason's new enforcer. Once they were alone, the two mobsters crossed their arms over their chests and stared down at the man in the chair. Despite trying not to, Ric felt himself break out into a sweat. There was never any denying Jason had been an intimidating man, but Sonny never had been. Even when he'd been unstable and erratic. However, Jason and his second were a formidable, frightening pair who would not hesitate to use deadly force and Ric knew he was the enemy.

"Hello, Ric," Jason said, lifting the corner of his mouth in a smirk. "Comfortable?"

"Just fine," he replied. He wouldn't cower or beg for his life.

Jason eyed the other man and then slowly approached. "You knew."

Ric frowned. "Knew? Knew what?"

"You knew that Sonny was starting to have a breakdown," the younger man stated simply. "You knew, and you encouraged it. You encouraged him to believe I was his enemy and that he should kill me."

"You were his enemy," the lawyer countered. "You'd taken away his business. Why shouldn't he take measures to take out his enemy?"

"Sonny was erratic and out of control and it wasn't just his business," the mobster tried to make justifications for his actions. "I was his partner and I had a responsibility to the men who worked for us; he was making decisions that threatened the business and their livelihood."

Ric scoffed. "You can try to make any excuse you want, Jason, but the facts remain that you betrayed Sonny. You took his business...and not for the first time. You were working against him. He had a right to retaliate."

"So you admit that Sonny wanted me dead."

The lawyer paused for a moment and then said, "Hypothetically speaking, of course."

"Of course," Jason laughed dryly. "Let's forget the fact that he married a snake and had a snake working for him."

The other man arched a brow and said, "The reason I'm not dead is because the person who took the job had reasons of his own to hate Sonny and wanted to protect me. He never intended to kill me, but when he learned that Sonny's wife was the person who ordered the shooting that left Michael in a coma, he decided they both would die."

Ric swallowed thickly and his eyes darted away, "What?"

"Give it up, Ric," the other man shook his head. "You aren't that good of an actor. Claudia was responsible for Michael being shot and I doubt that's a surprise to you. Because you ingratiated yourself to both Sonny and Claudia and it wasn't a secret that you were having an affair with her."

Sweat broke out on his upper lip and he swallowed. Jason leaned down and put his hands on the arms on Ric's chair and smirked. "Yeah, we knew. I also know just how jealous you've always been that Sonny never completely trusted you and wouldn't make you his right hand man. So you wanted me gone and you whispered in his ear for him to eliminate me. And when he died, you had to seek out a new protector so you went to Anthony Zacharra. You wanted him to cause problems for me, but he frightened you so you didn't really want to get him out of jail."

Jason straightened and walked behind Ric, unnerving the older man. "You thought he was behind Sonny's death, so you hoped he'd also take me out. But when you realized he wasn't just crazy, but completely insane, you panicked. Especially once you began to suspect that he wasn't behind the killings, but Helena was."

Circling back to the front, he tilted his head and said, "You were smarter than Alexis because she hadn't figured it out yet, and that's why you decided to run with Molly. You even had a moment of thinking about Jake and Elizabeth because you didn't want Lucky's enemy to kill them."

"How do you know that?" Ric demanded.

"We had men there," the other man answered simply. "They also heard your reaction to Nikolas telling you that Jake wasn't Lucky's son, but mine."

Jealousy and hatred rose up fast in Ric. He'd known Elizabeth had lied to him, he'd even tried to find her paternity test to prove it but Jason's little tech guy must have hidden it. He couldn't stand that his ex-wife had given birth to Jason Morgan's child, and had made of a fool of him by lying on the stand. He hated that she'd always loved Jason more than she'd loved him.

"We know you called the D.A., but you weren't able to do anything because you had to choose between revenge against me and Elizabeth, or protecting your daughter." Jason shrugged. "You chose your daughter, maybe being selfless for once in your life."

Cody moved forward to stand by Jason as the mobster said, "That one act doesn't make up for everything else you've done, though. Your treatment of Carly...making her think you'd raped her. Your treatment of Elizabeth while you were dating and when you were married. You put birth control pills in her drink and nearly killed her. Then you plotted against Sonny when he didn't bring you into the organization or treat you like he did me. And you hoped Sonny would kill me. One good deed for your daughter doesn't erase everything else, Ric."

"Look," he said, tired of Jason's holier-than-thou attitude. "You know you're going to kill me because you've always hated me. But think about how you'll be a hypocrite when you do. You say my one good deed doesn't erase all my other bad ones...well what about you? You kill and break the law but act like you're so noble. And you say you're just protecting the people you care about…but that's all convenient for when you want to claim it because we both know you threw Elizabeth away and left her vulnerable to my attentions."

Jason leaned over him again and said, "The difference between you and me is that I've never pretended to be someone I wasn't. You acted like you were better than you are when you were the D.A., but you got that job by fraud and didn't give it back even when Alexis was better. You made deals and manipulated the evidence to fit your agenda and let's not forget...I never slept with my step-daughter or poisoned my wife. I own who I am while you just pretend."

He straightened and said, "You were right. I wanted to kill you years ago...but I am aware that your daughter is waiting for her father. So I'm going to send both of you to Alexis and Kristina. Let the two of you fight it out."

Cody stepped forward and stopped at Jason's side. "But remember, Ric; we're protecting you from Anthony. Try to go after Miss Webber or cause any problems for Jason and we'll give Anthony a map to where you and your child are."

"You would endanger Molly?" he asked incredulously.

"You would have sent the D.A. after Miss Webber without a thought to whether she would have been taken away from her children." The other man countered with a diffident shrug. "So keep that in mind when you feel like causing problems."

Jason hooked a thumb to the side and ordered, "Get him out of here. I don't ever want to see him again."

Ric felt the threat, but Jason left no room for doubt when he said, "And if I do...I promise it won't be good."

Cody grabbed the lawyer's arm and roughly hauled him to his feet. Opening the door, the enforcer shoved him at the waiting guards. "Pack him and his daughter up and deliver them to Johannesburg. Mr. Lansing...don't ever come back to the United States. Find a nice place abroad and maybe Jason will leave you alone."

Then he closed the door and Ric knew he'd gotten off easily. Even if it didn't feel like it.

"He's gone," Cody said once the door was closed.

"Sell this place," Jason commanded as he turned and tucked his hands into his pockets. "I know Ric was blindfolded when they brought him here…but I don't ever want him to be able to identify this place and trace it back to us. Bury the sell; back date it, do whatever...but it was never ours."

"You got it," the younger man promised.

"Then get the files ready," he continued. "If Alexis and Ric stay away, I'll leave them alone. I don't like them...but knowing Michael and Morgan lost their parents...I just can't do that to Kristina and Molly. They don't have someone like Bobbie or Jax to take care of them-"

"They have Nikolas," the enforcer interjected.

"They don't have someone like Bobbie or Jax to take care of them," Jason repeated. "So I'll leave them alone for now."

"For now?"

"If either of them causes any problems, we deliver a file along with their current whereabouts to the PCPD, FBI and local authorities." Jason was blunt and cold and showed that his generosity only extended so far. If Alexis or Ric caused any problems for them, they'd be thrown to the wolves for their crimes - real and embellished.

"Bernie's working on it," his second assured him. "We don't want Diane on this."

"No," the older man agreed. "Not until we have to bring her in."

"Go home, Jason," Cody told him, now that this was over. The man had done all he could; he deserved to be back with his family. "We'll clean this place up, and tomorrow it will never have existed for the organization. The guards know not to take a direct route to the airport, so even if Ric tries to remember where they were held he won't be able to."

"Yeah," Jason nodded, sounding tired. "Thank you, Cody."

"That's what I'm here for," the former soldier said. "Now, go home to your family before those little boys have to go to bed."

With another nod the mob boss left the garage and Cody instructed the guards who entered once he was gone. Then he left and made his way to the house. He was going to make sure Ric understood exactly what was expected of him.

Chapter 45

"Jason?"

He stood when she stepped into the coffee shop and greet her. "Monica. Thank you for coming. Would you like something to drink?"

"Some-some tea?" she ventured, unable to keep the unease out of her voice.

"We have a wide variety," he offered. "Do you like the same kind Lila did?"

She raised her eyebrows slightly, surprised at how kind he sounded and that he had Lila's favorite tea blend, which wasn't a well-known brand, in stock. "Sure," she agreed. "That sounds nice."

He turned and gave the order to the barista, then he asked, "Would you like to go to the back office? We could talk there."

"Alright," she nodded. She knew he wouldn't be comfortable talking in public, even if it was a business he owned. He gestured for her to go in front of him, pausing to take the tea the man held out to him. He must have been confident in her order to already have it being prepared.

Once they were in his office and sitting down, he handed her the tea and leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. Monica frowned, her forehead creasing with concern and worry. She had been surprised when he called her and now he was acting so oddly that she was confused and a little bit scared. He seemed like he was trying to talk, but couldn't find the words.

Taking a chance, she hesitantly reached out and lightly put her and on his arm - ready to remove it in an instant if he objected, and asked, "Jason? Is...is everything okay? Is something wrong? Are Elizabeth and the boys okay?"

He sighed heavily, but he didn't move away from her touch. Instead, he brought his hand up to cover hers. "Thank you."

"Of course," she immediately said, even though she was confused as to what he was thanking her for.

"I haven't been very fair to you," he said, his voice regretful. "Yet you are so concerned."

"You're my son," she told him. Then regret filled her own voice as she said, "I haven't always been fair to you. I..."

Monica closed her eyes and said, "I was so wrong after Emily's death, and I am so sorry, Jason. I wish I could change the things I've done."

"I know," he said. "Sometimes I feel the same."

Letting out her own sigh, she said, "Unfortunately, we can't change the past things we've done. We can only apologize, hope for forgiveness one day and move forward. I...I hope we can do that, Jason."

"Me, too," her son nodded. "It's why I called you. I realized I haven't been fair to you; I...I didn't tell you that Elizabeth and I are getting married."

"Oh," she gasped out, her hand coming up to cover her mouth. Surprise, joy for her son, disappointment over not knowing sooner all coursed through her. She was so happy for him and overjoyed that he was with such a wonderful woman like Elizabeth. Of course, she knew Jake was his son and she'd heard Edward talking about it and Jason's plan to adopt Elizabeth's other son Cameron. Yet, she hadn't met her grandson and she didn't want to be angry over that, but it still hurt. However, she could understand Jason's hesitancy to reach out to her because of Tracy's lies and Edward's actions.

"That's wonderful to hear, Jason," she said, determined to be happy for her son and the fact that he had told her. "I'm so happy for both of you."

"Thank you," he said. "I-I should have told you sooner. You aren't Edward and you aren't trying to force me into ELQ for Jake."

The mother shook her head. "I've told Edward that you won't give in to his demands and he'll just anger you. I think he knows, but he's just too stubborn to give up."

She shrugged and then admitted, "I think we would both worry if he did."

A faint smile floated across Jason's face and he nodded briefly. She continued, "I know you don't really care what Tracy and Luke did to Alan's will; you didn't want to press charges on behalf of Jake."

He shook his head, "Jake, and Cameron, didn't need the money. I-I'm sorry that his will was changed...that it happened to you...and that you were cheated. But the boys didn't need his stock. And with the deaths and other things going on…I just couldn't worry about Tracy or Luke; I was just going to let you guys deal with them. I know Edward must have done something...and with Luke now dead, it seems like it's done. I'm just trying to keep everyone safe."

When she frowned, he went on to explain about the killings she'd seen on the news but had believed were due to the mob. Instead, Helena Cassadine had been behind all of them except for Sonny and his wife. The old witch wanted to eliminate the Spencers and Alexis in order to isolate Nikolas and make him her ideal Cassadine heir. Monica felt horror as her son explained how Helena had admitted to having killers in place to carry on her orders after her illness claimed her. He'd been hunting down those killers in order to protect everyone Helena wanted dead.

"So naturally Tracy and Luke weren't on your radar," Monica said with understanding. "Or Edward or me. You had to be focused on the safety of her targets."

"But I should have talked to you," her son shook his head. "I should have told you I was engaged, and I should have introduced you to Cameron and Jake. I owed it to you and I'm sorry."

"Jason," she said softly, tilting her head slightly. "We've both made mistakes; I don't want to get caught in guilt or blame. I'm just grateful you told me now. I appreciate you cared and called."

She brought a gentle smile to her face and tried to introduce a happier topic, "When are you planning the wedding?"

"Soon," he told her, making her eyebrows go up once again.

"Elizabeth got her cast off and so we're going down to the island. We can secure it, and we can have a little time to relax. Audrey and Steven are coming and I-I know it's short notice, but I wanted to invite you. I would like you to be there; you could spend some time with the boys, and...it would also ease Elizabeth's mind to have you there because Audrey isn't well."

"She isn't?" Monica asked with a concerned frown. "What's wrong? I've been going to conferences to distract me from missing your father, A.J. and Emily...but now I feel like I've missed so much. I wasn't here to talk to you or to know that my friend was sick. I've avoided being home, but instead I've removed myself from everything."

"Then maybe you can stick around and meet your grandsons and come to the wedding."

"I would love to, Jason," she told him with depth of feeling. "Thank you so much for allowing me this opportunity."

Her son looked at her and asked, "Would you like to come over now? Elizabeth offered to make dinner and said you're welcome to join us tonight."

"Thank you," she said, her eyes misting over. "I would like that very much."

"Thank you so much for inviting me tonight, Elizabeth."

"It was Jason who invited you," she shook her head as she brought out a tray of coffee. "We're just glad you were able to join us."

"Yes, Jason invited me," Monica agreed. "But Jason said it was after your talk. I won't insult my son and say you made him do something he didn't want to, but he also said you helped him realize he hadn't talked to us."

Elizabeth fought the urge to blush at praise she didn't feel she deserved. This was Jason's decision, and it was a little embarrassing to hear him give her so much credit tonight. "I didn't want you to feel slighted, but I also wasn't going to insist he do something. Plus, I felt some guilt because my fears kept him from telling you about Jake sooner."

"He mentioned that," the older woman admitted. "And I can understand why you didn't want Jason to say anything while I was in rehab. I had been erratic...I mean...look at how I attacked Jason over Emily's death. I had lost A.J. and Alan and Emily...and Lila."

Elizabeth swallowed thickly. "I know. There has been a lot of loss, and Emily's death was really hard on all of us. Jason knows it was very hard on you. I still am sorry you didn't know about Jake sooner."

"Elizabeth," Monica said gently. "I think we all have regrets, and as I told Jason we can't get mired in guilt. We can't apologize endlessly or we'll never move forward, and there are two wonderful little boys who want us here with them now."

She nodded, "I know. I just want the boys to be happy and I want them to know what family they can. I don't want them surrounded by fear or tension, and so I know I need to do all I can to help them."

"You're a good mother," Jake's grandmother said. "Emily would talk about the boys and the things you would do with them. She talked about birthdays and parties... I know she loved Spencer and tried to do the same things for him, but there was always a touch of envy in her voice that she didn't measure up."

With a shake of her head the younger mother said, "Emily was wonderful with Spencer. She gave him a childhood he wouldn't have had with just his nanny and servants surrounding him."

Monica shook her head, but her voice wasn't filled with regret for the lost of Emily from the little boy's life when she spoke. It was filled with bitterness. "I'm afraid without her he'll grow up to be just like his father. I couldn't believe it when Jason told me about all he's been doing...going after people Helena hired, and Nikolas not helping. His brother and sister were killed...you're his friend; why wouldn't he do everything he could to help out?"

"I don't know," Elizabeth could only shake her head. "I don't understand, and I won't even try to make excuses for him. He made his choice and since it endangers my children...that makes him someone who is no longer my friend."

"Family first," the older woman nodded. "I've picked and chosen who I've given my loyalty to in the past and it's sometimes been against Jason, I know that. But I will support him now. I won't let Edward badger him, and I really don't care what happens to Tracy. I am going to take this opportunity to know my grandsons and be with my son on the day he marries the woman he loves."

"Thank you, Monica," she said with a blush.

"It's true," the other mother continued. "You love and support him unconditionally. You don't care about what he can give you or do for you...you just want him to be happy. You aren't trying to manipulate him or make him do something. You let him take the lead on this instead of telling him what to do or trying to trick him into doing what you wanted."

"Jason is his own person," she said instantly. "While I want the boys to know their family, I won't make him do anything he doesn't really want to."

Carefully, because she didn't want to hurt Monica, she said, "I understand why he hasn't wanted to have much to do with the Quartermaines sometimes. I was ready to limit my interaction with my grandmother because she was upset about Jason being Jake's father and my involvement with him. Because while I love her and know she's concerned for me, this is my life and my choices. I wasn't going to argue with her, or subject my children to all of that tension and animosity."

The other mother nodded soberly. "Jason is the same. I won't pretend I'm happy with his choices, but they are his choices."

She paused and swallowed thickly. "We tried to take away his choices and treat him like he wasn't smart enough to make them or do things. While he did have difficulties, we relied too much on what our colleagues told us instead of what we were seeing. He wasn't like how Tony told us he would be when he woke up, but we treated him like he was."

Elizabeth reached out and put her hand on the older woman's arm. "I know it was hard, Monica, but it is also in the past."

"I know," came the heavy reply. She firmed her shoulders and straightened. "You're right. I know that there will be some strain between us, but I hope that Jason and I can move forward and actually have a real relationship."

"I want that, too," Jason said as he came down the stairs and they looked over at the sound of his voice. "You aren't the same as you were when I first woke up. You're trying, and I know I need to try, too."

He joined them on the couch, sitting behind Elizabeth and putting his arm around her. She covered his hand and gave it a squeeze. Looking at him she asked, "Are the boys asleep?"

"Almost," he answered and then smiled at her. "They want a kiss from Mommy."

Looking over at Monica she said, "It may be longer than just kisses, so I'll say good-bye in case you need to go."

"I did want to stop by and see Audrey," the doctor said. "After hearing about her condition, I want to see how she's doing."

"Thank you," Elizabeth said. While she knew her grandmother was seeing a good doctor, she was grateful that Monica would look in on her. It would help her gram to have friend to talk to, and having another doctor looking out for the other woman could only help.

"You're welcome," Monica replied. "Give the boys a kiss for me. And thank you for a lovely dinner, Elizabeth."

"You're welcome," she smiled. "We're glad you were able to come.

Then after saying good-bye she headed upstairs to the boys' room. Jake had fallen asleep already, but Cameron was struggling to keep his eyes open. She straightened Jake's blanket and pressed a kiss to her fingers that she lightly brushed across his hair so as not to disturb him. Then she sat down on Cam's bed and smiled down at him.

"Momma," he murmured sleepily.

"Goodnight, sweetie," she said softly, kissing him on his cheek. "That's from Grandma; now it's time for sleep."

"Is she still here?" he asked, trying to perk up.

"She's going to see Gram," Elizabeth answered. "Now, you need your sleep."

He rolled onto his side and she rubbed his back, feeling his breathing slow and even out almost immediately. She waited a few minutes until she was sure he was asleep, then she stood and turned for the door. Jason was standing there, silently waiting for her and she walked forward, taking his outstretched hand.

"Come with me," Jason said quietly as Elizabeth pulled the boys' door closed behind her.

She arched a brow in question, but followed after him as he led her to their bedroom. He pulled her close, wrapping his arms around her once they were inside. Bending his head, he brushed his lips over hers; softly at first, teasing, testing, until it lengthened and deepened.

"I love you," he said softly, kissing along her jaw to her ear. "Tonight was very good. I think Monica and I might be able to have a relationship, and it's because of you."

"You did it, Jason," she shook her head. "I will support you however I can and in whatever way, but it's your choice. Just like you supported me and my grandmother."

"I know," he replied, brushing her hair back softly and caressing her neck. "But it was a comfort and a help to have you here. She likes you, and the boys."

"They enjoyed meeting her, and they're willing to love her already as their grandmother."

He closed his eyes and then said, "I think it will be good for all of them. I want the boys to be happy."

"They are," she told him, pressing a kiss to his chest over his heart. "And I am, too. We fly down to the island-"

"We get married," he said, love surging through him. It had seemed an impossible dream, but it was now in his reach. That a woman like her could love someone like him left him in awe. "We formalize our family. We are a family, but Diane thinks all the casework will be ready after our honeymoon and we can visit the judge and finalize Cam's adoption and change Jake's birth certificate."

"They'll be so excited," Elizabeth smiled up at him, her own pleasure obvious. "It's all coming together."

"It is," he agreed.

He didn't voice his worries over still searching for Helena's assassins or Nikolas' uncooperative nature; this wasn't what he wanted her to worry about right now. And he didn't want to worry about it right now, either. They were alone, and he wanted to focus on them right now.

And he had something he wanted to ask her. "Our family is together and I love you for making it all happen. I love the boys and being able to be with them."

"Me, too," she said, but he saw the guilt in her eyes over the time he hadn't been with Jake. He kissed her before she could voice it and fall into self-recrimination.

As he pulled back, he was happy to see the guilt was no longer there. Instead, all he saw, and felt, was her love for him.

He took a breath and then continued with what had been growing on his mind. "Have you thought about more children?"

She looked at him in surprise and then said, "I-I hadn't really."

Arching a brow slightly she asked, "Are you thinking of more children? Do you...want more children?"

"I've thought about it," he confessed. "I-I don't know if it's safe after the complications you had with Jake...and I don't want to pressure you, but I would love to have more children with you. You are such a wonderful mother with the boys, and you are beautiful when you're pregnant."

She rolled her eyes, but he continued. "I want to have another baby with you and not have to hide how much I love you or how excited I am."

He put his finger over her lips. "No, this isn't about what happened before. This is about us now...and our future."

Jason sat down on the bed and pulled her down onto his lap. "One day...if or when you want...I would love to be with you for every moment of your pregnancy and take care of you and our family like I should have before. I want us to just..."

"Be together," she finished, her voice soft with understanding. "I thought about it when I was pregnant with Jake, but I couldn't let myself think about it often. And now...I've just been focused on wanting the boys to be safe; I didn't really think beyond that. Now, though...the thought of another baby...our whole family experiencing it together...I hope it happens."

"Really?" he couldn't help voicing.

She smiled at him in love and beauty and nodded. "Really."

"Then when you're ready," he told her.

"After our wedding," Elizabeth replied. "I'll see Kelly, but she didn't think there would be any complications after Jake. What happened just happened...though we'll of course be cautious. After then...no more condoms...and we'll leave the rest to fate."

He nodded, pulling her to him in a searing kiss. If it was meant to be, it would happen, and he would be thrilled. For now, he knew the time for talking was over. It was time for them to be here, now, and share in their love.

Chapter 46

"I just need you to sign these and then you're done," Diane said in her normal brisk voice. "Everything will be filed and ready to go before the judge when you get back. Your purchases of Nikolas Cassadine's properties and businesses are almost complete. We are just waiting for a few clerks to complete the filings, but it is mere formalities.

She arched one perfect brow and said, "That does not mean, however, that I am merely waiting on them. I have learned that being persistent helps the clerks handle paperwork much quicker simply so they don't have to field my questions several times a day as to their progress."

The corners of Jason's mouth quirked. He could imagine just how persistent his lawyer was, and how she could persuade clerks to move more quickly than they normally would. He finished signing the papers and handed them to her. She slipped them into her case, and then leaned forward.

"Thank you, Jason."

"Thank you, Diane," he told her. "There will be a bonus for how quickly you've taken care of this."

"Thank you," she said, her voice purring with pleasure. He knew if he didn't stop her, she start in on the shoes she'd love to get.

"You've done very well," he told her. Then he looked at Bernie and nodded and the accountant picked up the papers on his lap.

She understood the unspoken message and stood, smoothing her skirt. "I know you have much to do, so I'll let you and Bernie discuss your business. I just wanted to say..."

He looked at her when she trailed off. "Yes?"

"I wish you all the best on your wedding, Jason. I know you leave tomorrow for the island and I just wanted to say congratulations to you and Elizabeth."

"Thank you, Diane," Jason told her. "You are welcome to come."

"Thank you," she shook her head, "but I'll stay here to make sure everything is completed as required. Have a good day, and a good trip."

Then she turned and left and Bernie immediately began his recitation. "We have the shipping manifests for you to approve. Cody has the guard rotation for the warehouse and the piers. And I have the report on your accounts, including those of Nikolas Cassadine's that we appropriated."

He handed over several files and then waited quietly for Jason to read them. The younger man signed off on the manifests, made a brief change in the guard rotations, and then looked at the accounts. Cassadine had possessed a few healthy accounts, but the man hadn't been in good financial shape even before Jason moved against him. Perhaps Helena had been draining funds for her activities, or he had accountants who were stealing from him, or perhaps he was just inept in his business decisions and did not pay proper attention to them. Because for being a prince, he was a pauper compared to Jason.

However, the mobster didn't need the other man's money, although it did help offset some of his expenses. The whole point of taking Cassadine's money, property and businesses was to punish him, and Jason imagined the younger man was feeling the pinch right now. Or he would, if he had access to his account information. Right now, he was sitting in one of Jason's safe houses, and the mobster wasn't in any hurry to send the man home. He only had his island off Greece and whatever money and treasures he had stashed there because everything else was pretty well gone. And until Jason got a better inroad into the Greek government, Jason wasn't going to let him go. Because then when Nikolas needed funds, and the man would sooner rather than later, and he needed to sell something, there would be closer scrutiny on what he was selling.

"It looks good," he said, handing the files back to Bernie.

"Thank you, Jason," the man said. Then he reached for another file. "And here are your new accounts for Miss Webber and your sons. And may I echo Ms. Miller's sentiments and say congratulations to you and Elizabeth. I wish you every happiness."

"Thank you, Bernie," he replied. "And thank you for all you've done with all this recently."

He reached into his desk drawer and pulled out an envelope. "This is for you."

The older man's eyebrows went up and he reached for it as he humbly said, "Thank you, Jason."

The two men looked over when the alley door opened suddenly and Cody walked in. "We need to talk," he said without preamble. "Excuse us, Bernie."

"Mr. Morgan and I were done," the accountant said, and quietly took his leave.

"What is it?" Jason asked as soon as the door was closed.

"We've found the last of Helena's men," his enforcer said. "Francis and John have found the people who Helena contacted and they found the killers that were hired. The men who were sent after Mr. Jacks, Ms. Spencer and Michael and Morgan...they were eliminated."

"And were men after Elizabeth and the boys?" Jason asked anxiously, his hands tensing on the desk.

"John and Francis found him," Cody answered gently. "He was eliminated as well."

Jason let out a breath of relief and closed his eyes. Then he opened them and firmly commanded, "Tell me everything."

"He was already on the island," the younger man. "He'd been watching your family and..."

He paused and then his voice was hard as he said, "He met a guard one night at Jake's, chatted him up, made an offer, and the guard fed him some information."

Jason's fist thundered down on the desk. "Who?!" he demanded. "Where is he? He will not survive this!"

"I've already pulled him from rotations and he's constantly watched," his second answered. "His punishment is yours to handle and make the statement you want to make."

"This guard...this snake told the killer about the wedding on the island?"

Cody shook his head. "That was just the assassin's good luck; he went down to the island because the guard said normal behavior - especially if you followed Sonny's example - was to send your family there to keep them safe. He didn't know about the wedding yet when he told the guy how to sneak onto the island. The guy was just lying in wait; once the wedding preparations started, then he holed up and knew he had the perfect place."

The older man was furious at the betrayal, the danger they'd just barely missed, but he was also grateful for the diligence of his friends who found the killer. His family was safer now because of the men who didn't give up their search.

"It was just one killer?" he had to ask.

"Yes," the former soldier nodded. "Apparently Helena was in the tunnels when Cassadine revealed your son's paternity. She knew she wasn't killing a Spencer, but she wanted the boys gone anyways so that Elizabeth would hate Nikolas. She knew that there was a chance they would rebuild their friendship as they often did, and she wanted him alone and isolated.

Disgust soured Jason's stomach. That a woman so evil could want his sons dead just to ensure Elizabeth's gentle, steadying influence wouldn't be available to Nikolas was almost more than he could understand. However, he knew Helena's reasoning only made sense to her and he felt no regret for ending her life.

"Are Johnny and Francis coming back soon?"

"No," the other man shook his head. "They said unless you needed them, they would stay on the island and help supervise the security measures for the wedding. I don't have a problem with it; I actually think it will be good. The people there know they're doing a job specifically for you; to protect your family. They just found and dispatched an assassin; the men on the island would be stupid not to listen to them."

"I agree," Jason said. "I would rather have them there."

Taking a deep breath, he then let it out slowly through his nose and said, "We need to talk about places for them in the organization, but for now...I want to talk about this guard. Have him brought to the warehouse, and have everyone else in the organization there as well. He will be an example of what happens if someone betrays me."

The enforcer indicated his agreement, but didn't immediately move. Instead, he offered, "I think Francis would be good choice to run the island...or help retrain and oversee the guards. And I think John would be a good lieutenant...or have him oversee the island if Francis doesn't want to. But we also need to consider if the men here might distrustful of John, or would turn on him - or you - if they ever found out he killed Sonny. Regardless of the knowledge that Sonny put a hit out on you, some people might have problems with it."

"You've give this some thought," the mob boss said. "And they're good ideas; I'll think about them."

"Then I'll go arrange for the guard to be brought in."

"What's this about?" one guard leaned over and asked the man standing next to him.

"I don't know," the second man replied with a shake of his head, looking away when he caught Cody's eye as the enforcer scanned the crowd. "But they don't look happy."

Similar murmurings in the crowd fell silent as the side door opened and the traitor was brought in, flanked by two guards and two of the fiercest lieutenants.

"Thank you all for being here," Jason said. His voice was deceptively soft, but it was firm and carried over the quiet room as easily as if he'd shouted. "I know all of you are aware of the work we've been doing. Helena Cassadine was the person behind the attacks on innocent people associated with those in the organization. And you are aware that we have been searching for the men she hired to carrying out murders after her death. So many of you have worked with us, searching for those who would try to hurt people I carry about. To hurt my family."

He stopped and looked down, his hands coming to rest heavily on his hips. "Unfortunately," he said, looking up, "Grant hasn't been working with us."

Every eye in the room swung over to take a look at the guard who now shuffled and look surprised to be called out. Jason voice was filled with angry steel as he looked at the other men. "He shared information with someone...someone he knew wasn't part of us. He told this man about the island and how to sneak onto it."

Angry murmurs swept the crowd and the mob boss had to raise his voice to be heard. "He took money in exchange for this information. He knew that someone was threatening people in this town...in this organization...in my family. He knew, and he still did it.

"Now, thankfully," Jason said, his voice softening just a little, but Cody knew it was deceptive. The boss was still furious. "This assassin was found and he was eliminated. The man who was waiting on the island, waiting to harm my family and stop my wedding has been killed. But the man who told that killer how to get on the island is right here."

Once again, every eye in the room turned to look at where Jason was pointing. "This man has betrayed me...he betrayed us all. And I cannot excuse it or allow it."

Murmurs of agreement swelled through the assembled group and Jason once again hung his head heavily. Then he straightened, firmed his shoulders and walked over to stand in front of Grant. "I can't let anyone betray me, and I won't ever allow anyone to endanger my family."

The condemned man cowered and tried to step back, but the men behind him wouldn't let him shrink away. Cody could see Jason's face and the blank expression on it. He knew the other man didn't relish the coming moment, but he would do it. And so Jason reached out and placed his hands on the sides of Grant's head. Then he suddenly and violently twisted his hands and snapped the traitor's neck. The man slumped and was caught by the men behind him. The mob boss turned and looked at the completely silent room.

"I will eliminate any threat to my family and I will not tolerate any betrayal."

Then he turned and walked out of the room. Cody was quiet and deliberate as he stepped forward, looking over at the dead traitor that was being carried from the room. "I don't think anything else needs to be said. If you betray this organization or Mr. Morgan's family, that will be you."

He let that hang in the air for a moment before ordering, "Everybody back to work."

The men moved quietly as they left, but he could also see the determination and commitment on their faces and a firmness in their stance, even as they glanced at their neighbors in question. People would be a little more suspicious and aware of what others were doing. They would not turn a blind eye to what was going on around them, and that would help Jason and Cody as well.

Elizabeth held on tight to Jason as he leaned into the turn and then exited to race the straightaway until they reached the next turn. He wasn't going as fast or as recklessly as she knew he would be if he was alone, and she was glad he wasn't alone. Something had definitely happened today that upset him, and it had been obvious to her when he asked her to go for a ride that it wasn't just for them to be together. He needed to get away, and she was merely grateful to be with him.

Although they had first raced past it, Elizabeth knew they would turn into the bridge on their way back. He slowed and then stopped the bike, shutting off the engine and plunging the night into silence. He let out a troubled breath and then reached back to help her off before putting down the kickstand and climbing off on the other side.

Elizabeth watched him stalk to the rail and lean on it, his back decidedly to her. She tried not to take it personally; she just wondered how to help him, but not push him before he was ready. Letting out a soft breath, she walked to the opposite side of the bridge and looked up into the dark gorge. She turned after a while and leaned back against the concrete and stone, gazing up at the stars above her.

"They still are so close after a ride," she said, looking for any constellation she might recognize. "Cam loves the stars. We've had to get star charts and I had to find stories behind the constellations. Of course, I had to clean them up some, but he loves to hear them over and over and try to find them in the sky."

"He's a good boy," Jason said, turning to look at her but she only saw him in her periphery because she'd just found Orion and was tracing the outline in her mind's eye. "Smart and curious like his mom."

"He asked if we could look at the stars down on the island," she continued as she traced the belt. "Maybe he'll want to be an astronomer. Although, today he asked for a tool set so he could work on motorcycles like his dad."

She felt his arms wrap around her and he held her tightly, his head coming down on her shoulder. "I want him to be whatever he wants to be, and hopefully he'll be safe enough to do that."

He fell quiet, but Elizabeth knew he was ready to tell her what was bothering him so she stayed quiet as well. Releasing a breath he continued, "We found the last of Helena's men. There was someone down on the island; hired by Helena to kill the boys even though she knew Jake was mine."

She stiffened in his arms; she couldn't help it, even though she knew there would always be risk in their lives. "Then why?"

"To forever drive a wedge between you and Nikolas so he would be alone and would become the Cassadine she wanted him to be."

"She was evil," the young mother shuddered. "And I'm not sorry she's dead."

"The guard who told the killer how to get on the island is dead also," he confessed. "And everyone knows I will not tolerate a traitor."

Now she understood his mood. He'd had to deal with a traitor, someone who put their boys, and the business, in danger. But he'd done it, and then come home where he'd had dinner with them, played with Cameron and Jake and read them stories before bed, and he'd never hinted anything was wrong. It wasn't until they left for their ride that he'd showed more of the agitation and distressed that she'd sensed despite his efforts to hide it from even her.

"I'm sorry," she said, rubbing his arm as it rested against her waist.

"No, I'm sorry," he countered. "The boys were in danger because of me."

"No," she refuted firmly, pushing back so she could turn and look up at him.

"It was my guard."

"Who helped Helena's assassin," she said pointedly. "Your guard didn't decide to go after the boys. Yes, what he did helped, but you also stopped him."

"It was Johnny and Francis."

She smiled up at him. "Then that proves you have people working for you who are loyal and will protect us. And if there is someone who isn't, then they will be stopped. Just like what happened today."

Elizabeth licked her lips before continuing. "I know you worry, and I admit I do, too. But I also know that while there are no guarantees, you do have people you can trust that will do everything they can to protect us. That helps me; not just for me and the boys, but because I also know you will be safe. The same men you can trust with us, I trust to keep you safe."

"I know you worry," he said, his voice rough with regret.

"And you worry," she acknowledged. "We'll always worry. But we have to trust those who have shown their loyalty. It's like I once told you, love shouldn't be safe. We will do everything we can, but we can't let doubts and worries freeze us. We have to live."

"I know," Jason nodded. "I know. I just hate that someone I thought I could trust would betray us."

"I understand," she said softly. "But you handled it."

However he'd done it, although she had her suspicions, she knew he wouldn't tell her, and she wouldn't ask because she knew well enough not to. He would tell her when there was something important she needed to know.

"I did," he confirmed. "And hopefully someone will think twice before they do the same thing."

"Then we just have to trust in that, those that are loyal to you and hope for the best, knowing we've done all we could."

Jason pulled her into his arms and let out a breath. "Thank you for tonight. I know my mood confused you...and probably worried you."

She shrugged as she confessed, "I was, but then I understood. I just want to support you, Jason, and help you."

"I know, and it helps," he told her. "It really does."

"It's a relief to know that our wedding will have a little less worry hanging over it," Elizabeth said. "It helps my worries."

"I know," he nodded. "And now..."

When he trailed off in thought she asked, "And now?"

"And now..." he smiled at her. "Now I can think about some surprises."

Her face lit up and she asked, "Surprises?"

"No," he kissed her nose. "I won't tell you. You're just going to have to wait.

"For now, though," he said, "let's go home. We leave for the island tomorrow and you know the boys will wake up early.

Chapter 47

"Elizabeth looks beautiful."

Audrey turned to her friend and smiled, and then her eyes drifted back across the garden to where her granddaughter stood beside her husband. "She is," she agreed. "She is so happy, but this...this passes it all."

"She glows," the doctor said, her voice wistful and pleased. "I don't know that I have ever seen her quite this joyous. I'm not even sure her feet are touching the ground right now. I think she floated down the aisle towards Jason."

She had been absolutely beautiful in the bride's room before the wedding, but when she appeared in the garden on Steven's arm, the young woman had been transformed. With the flowers and foliage surrounding her and her dress floating around her in the light breeze...she had been breathtaking. Audrey had turned to look briefly at Jason after hearing him gasp and she was moved by just how much love and awe was on his face.

While the older woman had known Jason had cared for Elizabeth for a long time, it had always worried her. However, in that moment it struck her just how tender Jason appeared. He was simply a man who loved a woman and couldn't believe that he was about to marry her and spend his life with her. In that moment, Audrey didn't see a hardened, lethal mobster, but merely the man she knew would love her granddaughter, cherish her, and do everything he could to make her happy.

"It's clear just how happy she is," the grandmother agreed. "And so is Jason. I don't think I've ever seen him this relaxed and happy before."

Her friend looked over at her son, and then nodded. "It's true. He loves her and the boys so much, and it's clear he's thrilled he's married."

"I'm glad she's happy," Audrey continued. "I've always wanted her happy, but I always wanted it on my terms."

The woman at her side sighed knowingly. "We want so much for our children that sometimes we go at it the wrong way. Sometimes we have to step back and realize it's their lives. However, this one event I think we can all agree on."

"I agree," she nodded. "And I'm glad Elizabeth has more family now, and will have you in her life. She will have someone she can turn to."

Monica turned towards her with a concerned frown. "Audrey? Are you...are you okay? Has something happened? Something wrong in your latest tests?"

"No," she shook her head in reassurance. "But that doesn't insure I will be here forever. One day I will be gone and I'm glad to know that when I am, you will be here for her."

Her friend put her arm around her and hugged her. "We all hope to have you around for some time, and that we can spend time together as a family."

The older woman smiled, "Yes, family once again."

"This time I think it will turn out so much better than my foray into the family," Monica smiled with self-deprecation. "This one's going to last; I know it. They've loved each other for a long time and they've danced around each other for nearly as long; now that they've finally decided that seize that love and get married...they're going to last."

"I sure hope so," Audrey said wistfully. "Because what I want most is for her to be loved and happy, and I believe I'm finally seeing it."

"Did you ever think you would see such a sight?" John asked as he walked up and handed over a glass of Coke. Jason had told them they weren't on duty and could enjoy themselves, but neither man was going to drink. They may have found the assassin, but they weren't going to let their guard down. They would celebrate once Jason and Elizabeth were safely on their wedding night.

"Dancing?"

"I've seen him dance before," John shook his head. "But I've never seen him this happy. She didn't have to drag him out there; nobody had to tell him he needed to dance with his bride; he wants to dance with her."

Francis chuckled, "True. Look at him."

"I've watched him all day," the younger man laughed. "He's not grinning ear to ear, but he's relaxed, and he's definitely happy. I felt like I was intruding on a private moment when she walked down the aisle. The look on his face...there was no hiding just how much he loved her."

The song ended, but Jason remained on the dance floor, his arms around his bride. He lowered his head to whisper something in her ear and she looked up at him lovingly. She smiled and brushed her hands over his lapels, letting her hands linger slightly. They were close, their legs twined together as they swayed to a rhythm that didn't match the current music.

The two friends watched the newlyweds, smiling at the way they were nearly oblivious to everyone else around them. The guests didn't seem to care that the couple weren't mingling around them; they all smiled indulgently at the pair. However, there was one guest that didn't seem content to let Jason and Elizabeth stay on the dance floor wrapped up in each other.

Cameron walked straight to his parents, having slipped away from his uncle and grandmothers. "Mommy. Daddy." He tugged on Jason's coat. "Come on. When are we gonna eat? When are we gonna have cake?"

The guests laughed and Jason knelt down in front of his son. Elizabeth's brother started towards them, but the groom waved him off. "Hungry?"

"Uh-huh," the little boy nodded earnestly. "When are we gonna eat cake?"

"Soon," Elizabeth said, looking over at the hotel manager who was acting as the wedding coordinator. The other woman nodded and scurried off. "Let's get you something to eat."

"I'll take him," Jason told her. He scooped the little boy up and headed over to the food.

"Francis?" John called out to him in question as the older man walked out onto the dance floor, but the older man kept going.

"Mrs. Morgan."

Elizabeth started slightly and then turned to look at him with a smile. "Francis."

"Do you think your husband will mind if I ask you to dance?"

Her smile brightened and she stepped towards him. With a glance over her shoulder she lowered her voice conspiratorially, "I think he's sufficiently distracted; so you'll be safe."

As they began dancing, a respectable distance apart, he said, "You are a beautiful bride, Mrs. Morgan."

She blushed as she let out a giggle and he laughed. "Getting used to your name?" he asked. "It suits you. I've watched the two of you and I know you've had your problems, but I've always been pulling for you. And to see you finally come together and to see how happy you are... It makes me so pleased for you."

"Thank you, Francis," she smiled up at him, her eyes misting over. "And thank you for all you did to help Jason. It helps me to know that there are good people looking out for him and helping him. I know there are know guarantees, but it helps."

"He's a good man," he told her. "He inspires loyalty and now that he's just married my favorite charge and he has two little boys to go home to...I'll do everything I can to make sure he comes home to you."

Elizabeth threw her arms around him and hugged him. "Thank you, Francis."

He was surprised, but he returned her hug and then stepped back. Offering her his arm he escorted her to her husband who was waiting for them. "I'm happy for both of you," he told the couple.

"Thank you, Francis," his boss, his friend, said as he held out his hand. "This day couldn't have been what it is without you and John. I trust you with my family's lives and I hope you will consider my offer."

"I have," the older man said. "While I like the island, I don't want to be over everyone here. I'd like to work with the guards. I want to make sure the men guarding Mrs. Morgan and your sons are the best trained and understand the honor and importance of their work. And maybe I could even been on the guard detail."

Impulsively Elizabeth hugged him again and Jason looked deeply grateful. "Thank you, Francis. Talk to Cody. After you take some time off, because you definitely deserve it; then you can come and get started."

"I will," he nodded. "Now, I think there's a little boy who's really anxious for some cake."

The couple looked over at their son who was bouncing on his feet next to his uncle. They thanked him again and then headed over towards the desert table, collecting their sons along the way. Francis couldn't keep a smile off his face as Cameron and Jake clapped with delight.

"Well," John said as he joined the older guard. "You looked happy, and Jason didn't even kill you for hugging his wife."

"I'm going to lead the guard training," he said. "I don't want to deal with the pressures of running the island."

"I didn't think you would," his friend said. "You weren't in Port Charles because you couldn't respect Sonny anymore. It's completely different now that Jason's running things."

"What about you?" Francis asked with a lift of his brow. "What are you going to do?"

"I haven't decided yet," the younger man shrugged. "I don't want to cause any problems for Jason by being in Port Charles; what if someone figures out or suspects my part in Sonny's death? The island is more removed...so maybe that's the better choice. Give me a chance to help Jason by making sure the people here aren't cheating him."

"Well," he said, "you've still got some time. Jason isn't expecting a decision right away. For now, let's go get some cake."

The cake had been cut, the bouquet was tossed and Jake and Cameron were exhausted. Monica was swaying slowly side to side while Jake's head rested on her shoulder. Cameron was still and heavy in his Uncle Steven's arms but he was determined not to fall asleep until he said good-bye to his mom and dad.

"Bye, Pumpkin," she said softly as she brushed her hand over Jake's blond hair. "Be good for Uncle Steven and your grandmas."

He murmured sleepily as she kissed him and then she hugged Monica. Jason took her place to speak to his mom as Elizabeth moved over to speak to Cam.

"Hey, sweetie," she smiled tenderly at her oldest son.

"Momma," he said plaintively as he reached for her. She took him in her arms and hugged him close. "Why are you and Daddy going away? I want you to stay."

"I know," she smiled indulgently. "But we talked about this. Daddy and I are going to have some time alone; it's what mommies and daddies do after they get married. But after a couple of days we'll come back and then we'll be together and have family time. But while we're gone you'll get to spend some time with UncaSteve and Gram and Grandma. And I know you'll have fun."

"Of course we will," Steven told him as he reached for his nephew. The little boy was heavy and he wanted to spare his sister.

"Yeah, you will," Jason agreed as he joined them. "And you'll be a good boy, won't you?"

"Uh-huh," Cameron nodded sleepily.

"I know," his father smiled. "Because you are a good boy. You want to go with Mommy over to Gram? I'm going to talk to Uncle Steven for a minute and then I'll come over."

"Okay," he nodded and Elizabeth lifted her brows in question, but she took her son and then walked away.

Steven furrowed his brows and was immediately concerned. "Is everything okay?" he asked, trying to temper the worry that soured his stomach. "Did something happen?"

"No," Jason shook his head instantly and his voice was meant to reassure him. "No. No problems like that. We got the guy and all indicators are Helena only hired one for each target. Of course, we'll keep watch, but we feel pretty sure that we got everyone and this particular threat is eliminated."

It was very strange for the doctor to have this discussion. He and Jason were at opposite ends of the law and their attitudes towards life and if it wasn't for the fact that they both loved Elizabeth and they were family now, they would have very little to do with each other. He would set aside his natural instincts that said he shouldn't be having this conversation, and instead just focused on the fact that this was about his family's safety.

"Okay," he nodded. "Then what's going on?"

"Elizabeth has always wanted to go to Italy," Jason said and Steven nodded as he slipped his hands into his pockets. "But when the killer was still out there, I just didn't feel it was smart to go. I wanted her to enjoy it; not have us all constantly worried and looking over our shoulders."

"Understandable," the doctor agreed.

The groom licked his lips and said, "Now that we got the killer I want to give Elizabeth her dream."

The older man smiled and said, "She'll love it."

Jason looked a little nervous as he said, "I hope so. But I wanted to ask for your help. We'd planned to honeymoon on the island and have the boys with us."

"Right," he nodded. "So do you want us to keep the boys down here?"

"I don't want to make you miss work," the other man shook his head. "But I don't want Audrey to feel like she should take them, because she needs to rest and focus on her health. We have a nanny who helps, but I know it would help Elizabeth feel comfortable if there was some family around."

"I agree, and I've got some more time I can take," Steven told him. "When were you thinking of going?"

"After we spend some time with the boys here," the father replied. "We'll come back to the villa after a couple of days. Then after a week or so...we'll bring the boys back to Port Charles. We should have the meeting with the judge about the adoption, and once that's done then go from there."

Steven thought through his schedule and said, "I think I can definitely work something out. If I take the time I'm there before you arrive, I can get my workload sorted out and reassign some cases then I'll have time available. I know my grandmother and she'll want to help regardless of what we try to arrange."

"I know Monica will help also," Jason said. "I talked to her briefly."

"Then I am confident that between the four of us that we'll be able to take care of Cameron and Jake, make them comfortable and allow you to enjoy your deserved honeymoon."

"Thank you," the groom said, holding out his hand. "This means a lot to us."

The uncle smiled and patted his brother-in-law on the shoulder and said, "It's my pleasure, Jason. Now, my sister is looking very curious, so think of a good excuse before we go over there. And that's all I'm going to say about tonight because it is my little sister we're talking about."

"Steven? Jason?" she questioned as they reached her. "What's going on?"

Jason kissed her and shook his head. Steven stepped in so the husband wouldn't have to lie to his new bride and ruin the surprise. "Nothing, Lizbits. Just making sure everything's okay for tonight."

She smiled indulgently at her husband, accepting her brother's lie and letting it go. "Cam fell asleep."

"Then let's go," Jason said, holding out his hand to her.

Elizabeth trailed her fingertips over Jason's chest, circling through the soft hair before resting over his heart. Her hair, which had been twisted up elegantly with a few tendrils curling over her ears now tumbled over her shoulders, contrasting against her ivory skin. She slid her leg against his, creating a sensual friction as her foot brushed over the hair on his skin.

"Mr. Morgan?"

He turned his head to look at her and lifted his brow. "Yes, Mrs. Morgan?"

She smiled and blushed at the way he said her name. He loved the way she could still be shy even now, but he would never laugh at her.

"Yes?" he repeated.

"I don't suppose there's any food here," she said a teasing smile.

"There might be something," he said off-handedly. "Are you hungry? You ate at the reception."

She levered herself up on her elbow and glared down at him. "The reception was hours ago, my dear. And need I remind you that I've been engaged in some rather vigoruous exercise since then?"

It was his turn to smile as he shook his head. "Not at all. In fact I was thinking..."

"Oh, I know what you were thinking," she grinned at him. "But I'm telling you that I'm hungry. And if you're hoping for something, then I need food."

He pulled her to him and kissed her deeply, rolling her underneath him. Braced on his elbows above her he said with grave seriousness, "We can't have you starving, Mrs. Morgan. As your husband, I believe it is my solemn duty to ensure your well-being and physical comforts."

"How very noble of you."

Nodding in all seriousness, he lowered himself to kiss her. "Yes. So you stay here and I'll go see what we have. Can't have you wasting away on me; because I have big plans for us. I want to watch the sunrise with my new bride before I even think of falling asleep."

Chapter 48

"Let Nikolas go once you get back."

Cody lifted a brow as he looked at his boss. "You know, you are on your honeymoon."

"And I will stay on my honeymoon," the older man said. "Elizabeth and I will spend some time with the boys now. You're going back to Port Charles and there are some things I need you to do."

"Okay," the second-in-command nodded. He knew it would be impossible for Jason to be completely uninvolved, but he wanted the newlywed to have as few worries, and distractions, as possible. He wanted the older man to get back to his family so he wanted to get the conversation handled quickly. "What do you need me to do?"

"Let Nikolas go," he repeated. "Take him to the airport, let him go home. Make sure he knows that if he ever steps foot in Port Charles again it'll be the last thing he ever does. And let him know it's only a matter of time before we own his island off Greece and we'll be watching ever move he makes."

"I'll put the fear of God in him before he goes," Cody promised. Just like he'd done with Ric.

"Make sure Bernie has the files ready on Alexis and Ric and find out what they're doing," the boss continued. "I want to know what they're up to because I want to be prepared."

"I will," the enforcer assured him.

"Good," Jason nodded. "Then just go over the schedules with Bernie. And tell Max and Milo to get ready because they're going to Italy. I want to send them to visit their father in Sicily while we're on our honeymoon."

"Emissaries of thanks for his help?" the younger man asked in understanding.

"It also keeps the old man from bugging me," his boss said bluntly. "I had enough of a headache with him when he was in Port Charles before; I really don't want to have to deal with it now."

"I'll make sure Max and Milo understand," he promised.

"Good," Jason said, looking over at the boys that Elizabeth was trying to keep occupied so they didn't run to their father. "And ask John and Francis if they'll delay their new assignments until after our trip to Italy. I want men I can trust when we're there; men I know Elizabeth will feel comfortable having around."

"You got it," Cody smiled. "Now get over to your family and enjoy the rest of your time on the island."

Jason held out his hand which the enforcer took. "Thank you, Cody."

"You're welcome, Jason."

Then he watched his boss walk over to his family, stooping down to pick up one boy in each arm. He kissed his wife and the four moved off under the watchful eyes of their guards.

The former soldier headed to the hotel where he knew he would find John and Francis at this time of the day. John would be sitting with the casino manager going over the books and talking about procedures, and Francis would be meeting with the guards and giving them refreshers. As he entered the hotel, he sent a guard to ask the two men to join him and then waited in the office for their arrival.

"What's going on?" Francis asked as the men walked in a short time later.

"Jason has a request for you," he replied and immediately they straightened. "He is planning to take Elizabeth to Italy after they return to Port Charles and get the boys settled in. He'd like to you to go along as guards. You can take some time off now and start your next posts afterwards."

"Of course we'll go," John said instantly after only a quick glance at the other man. "But we don't need any time off."

"Take some time off," he told them. "You deserve it. Jason and I appreciate all you've done and your loyalty and work ethic. But you've earned a break and we want you to take some time. We don't want you wearing out. So this is an order, from Jason; you're off until the Italy trip. You'll fly back with Jason's family so you're there when they're able to leave. They won't leave until after their family court appearance."

"Okay," Francis nodded.

"Great," Cody said as he stood. "Now I get to go back to Port Charles and release a spoiled prince."

"A boat?" Cameron squealed as they approached the dock. "We get to go on a boat?"

"We do," Jason told him. Looking over at Elizabeth who was smiling despite being a little nervous he said, "It'll be good. I made sure there are life preservers in their sizes and we won't go too fast."

"I know," she smiled at him. "I trust you. It's just they've been talking about a boat ride forever."

The indulgent father smiled a bit sheepishly. "I know. I want them to have fun."

"They have had fun," she assured him. "And they will love the boat."

And the boys did. They spent hours out on the boat, taking advantage of the snacks and drinks Elizabeth had brought along. Cam and Jake squealed with delight as they drove around the island and amongst the waves. He didn't go very fast, but it was enough for the boys to feel the wind and swell of the waves. And each one got a turn to sit on Jason's lap and help drive.

"Mama," Jake called out to her as he let go of the wheel.

She was properly impressed as she clapped her hands. "You're doing so good, Jake," she praised him. "Look at what a big boy you are."

"When does Mommy get a turn?" Cameron asked. "Mommy needs a turn."

Jason had to smile at his son's demand for fairness. While sometimes he wanted a longer turn or a bigger serving than Jake, he always insisted his mother be treated fair as well. Elizabeth's eyes twinkled as she laughed. "Does Mommy need a turn?"

"Yes!" both boys declared. "Come on, Daddy."

"If Mommy wants a turn, then she can have one," he told them with a chuckle.

His wife arched her brow. "Really?"

He met her look and nodded. "Really."

Slowing the boat, he brought them to a bobbing stop and then he stood, bringing Jake with him. Elizabeth was smiling as she walked towards the front and kissed Jake's cheek before rising on her toes to press a kiss to her husband's lips. Father and son sat beside Cameron as she sat down and glanced briefly at the controls to familiarize herself with them.

Then she looked over her shoulder and smiled. "Hold onto Daddy."

The boys did, even as Jason looked at her in question. Just as he was about to speak, she hit the gas and they started out. The boys squealed with delight as she gave the boat a burst of speed, making them go faster then they had before. Her laugh carried over the wind and he knew they all were safe - he had shown her the boat's controls when they'd gone out before a couple of days ago - but it did surprise him she was going faster than he had.

Of course, he knew how much she loved to speed along and feel the wind in her face so once he got over the surprise he felt that she would go faster than him with the boys in the boat, he laughed along with his family. He was going to have to make sure they had a bike when they were in Italy. He couldn't wait to have her arms wrapped around him as they explored the countryside.

Jason kept his own arms around the boys as they headed back towards the dock. Elizabeth handled the boat well and when she brought them to a stop, a guard quickly grabbed the rope Jason tossed him and then helped him get the boys off. He then took Elizabeth into his arms and kissed her before he helped her up onto the pier.

"That was fun!" Cameron declared as Jason took his hand and Elizabeth picked up Jake. "Mommy drove the boat. She went fast."

"Yes, she did," Jason grinned down at his wife and kissed her again. "She's a little speed demon."

"I think this little one needs a nap," she said, still smiling up at her husband, and rubbing Jake's back as his head rested heavily on her shoulder.

Cameron had begun lagging once his initial excitement waned and he didn't protest when his father picked him up. By the time they made it back to their villa it was clear both boys were almost asleep, worn out by the day's excitement. They went to bed easily and Elizabeth stood and stretched her back. Jason walked over to her and wrapped his arms around her waist before placing a kiss at the nape of her neck.

"Come on," he whispered. "I think someone else could use some rest."

She waited until they were in the hall before she looked up at him innocently and asked, "Are you tired? The boys will probably sleep for an hour or two; you would have time for a nap."

"I'm not tired," he shook his head. "But I thought maybe you might be. The boys are going to be demanding of your time now that we're back. A dad's fun, but Mommy's indispensible."

"I'm fine," she shook her head. "But if you'd like to lay down...well, maybe I could as well."

Taking her hand, he led her into their bedroom and to the bed. All teasing was over; they were going to make the most of the boys' nap time.

The next few days passed in wonderful family time. They played on the beach and in the waves, spent their afternoons exploring the island or playing games, and cuddling and watching movies in the evening before bedtime. Cameron and Jake loved the adventure and getting to spend their time playing. Elizabeth enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and knowledge that so much of the past tension was gone.

She knew, of course, that the threat of danger would never be completely gone. It was simply a product of Jason's life and she had finally accepted it. She loved her husband and wanted to be with him, and she was done running from her fears. She knew that there were no guarantees in life, but she also knew that Jason and the men around him would do everything they could to protect the family. They certainly had proved that in the hunt for Helena's killers.

When they returned to Port Charles they wouldn't feel that they were as confined or couldn't venture out. They could enjoy outings to the park or visits to family without having to fear for their lives or feel like they had a small army following them. They could start to feel normal again, or as normal as their new lives would be, and maybe even think about looking for a house.

While she and the boys had loved their little house, Elizabeth knew it wasn't the right fit for their family now. They couldn't establish enough of a perimeter and the armed men needed to protect them would definitely be noticed, and commented on, by her neighbors. They didn't need a massive, walled compound like Sonny had, and in truth she didn't want to live in a place like that. But Elizabeth couldn't deny that she did want a house, and she would compromise with Jason and what he felt they needed so long as it wasn't a compound. They could, and undoubtedly would, keep the penthouse because it was safe and easily defendable should another threat arise. And while the boys enjoyed it and the playroom across the hall, they missed having a backyard they could easily run around in. She knew her job was to help balance the boys' desires with the safety they must all accept as necessary now.

"What's bothering you?"

She startled at the sound of Jason's voice and looked over at him as he sat down beside her. "What?"

"I called you and you didn't answer," he said with concern. "And as I approached I could see you were thinking hard about something."

Reaching out to take her hand he asked, "Are you okay? What's wrong?"

"Nothing," she told him, but he frowned at her skeptically.

"Really," Elizabeth attempted to reassure him with a smile. "It is nothing bad; I promise. I was thinking about our time here, what it will be like when we go back to Port Charles without such a heavy threat looming over us, and then I was thinking about where we'd live. The boys would like a house, but I know our house isn't really the best security-wise and as long as it's not a compound like Sonny lived in, I will temper the boys' wants with what we need to be safe."

When he just looked at her, with a little surprise, she shrugged. "See, nothing scary; just my mom's brain at work. We'd obviously keep the penthouse, but I know the boys would be happy with a house and especially a backyard."

"They love being able to just run outside," he nodded. "I've seen it down here, and I was thinking about houses as well. I just...wasn't sure how to say we couldn't go to your house."

"But now we're on the same page," she said with an easy grin. "And I don't want to discuss houses or floor plans right now. I've thought about it all I want to for now. Right now, I want to take the boys, go play in the waves and enjoy our last few days here. The real world will intrude soon enough when we return to Port Charles."

"True," he said solemnly, with almost a touch of regret. But then he looked over at the boys playing with one of the guards and he smiled, "So let's go wear the boys out and then maybe tonight you and I can slip away for a moonlight drive."

By the warm look he gave her she suspected he had something besides just a ride in mind. Perhaps tonight he would show her that remote waterfall and pool he said would be a perfect place for skinny dipping.

"Jason, I apologize for calling and interrupting your honeymoon, but I have good, and important, news," Diane said after Jason answered his phone.

"It's okay," he told her. He knew his employee would only call if it was essential; everyone wanted to give him as much time with his family as they could and they only interrupted if it was absolutely necessary. "What's going on?"

"I've heard from Judge Lewis' clerk," she explained. "Everything regarding our petitions for Jake and Cameron has been processed and she called to schedule you on the docket. You could be seen several days before we anticipated. That means, however, it would cut into your honeymoon."

He looked out the open patio doors to where his wife was feeding the boys a snack and said, "Let me talk to Elizabeth and I'll call you back."

"Of course," she agreed. "Let me know as soon as you've decided and I will schedule you with the clerk."

"Thank you, Diane," he replied and hung up the phone.

With a sigh he stood, and went to join his family. He didn't want to cut their time together short, but the appeal to have everything legally complete was very tempting. Elizabeth looked up as he stepped out onto the tiled patio, her surprise over seeing him so soon was clear.

"That was Diane," he told her, answering the question he knew she had but would never ask. "She said the paperwork is completed and Judge Lewis could get us in sooner than we thought."

"How soon?" she asked, her hand coming up to rest on the back of Cameron's chair.

"As soon as we want."

She looked down at the boys, then back up at him. "As soon as we could get back?"

"As soon as Diane can schedule it," he confirmed with a nod.

"We-we'd have to...sooner than we planned," she mused softly, looking at their sons. "But..."

She trailed off and looked up, delight on her face. "But it would be official."

"It would be," Jason agreed with a smile that matched hers.

"What do you think?" she asked anxiously.

"I think we should have Diane schedule it for the morning after tomorrow," he answered. "We have the rest of today with the boys. Tonight we do one last stargazing and tomorrow morning we go out on the boat again. We leave around noon and we'll be home in time to get the boys settled into bed. Then the next day..."

Elizabeth's voice was infused with breathy pleasure as she finished, "We see the judge."

"The judge?" Cameron asked, looking up at them with a furrowed brow. He had been mostly ignoring their conversation in favor of his snack, but now he seemed interested. "Why do we see the judge?"

"He would make your adoption official," his mother explained as she knelt down beside him. "You will be Cameron Morgan and we'd change Jake's birth certificate to Morgan as well. Then we'll all be Morgans."

"Really?" he asked, his voice starting to bubble up with excitement. He looked at Jason and asked, "You mean everyone would know you're really my daddy?"

"They would," he nodded.

"When?"

"We'd have to leave tomorrow," he told the older boy. "A little earlier than we planned, but I hope that's okay."

"It is," Cam enthused. "We get to see the judge."

Jason and Elizabeth laughed with delight and Jake joined in, even though he didn't fully understand. Jason ruffled the boys' hair and kissed Elizabeth. "I'll go call Diane."

She nodded with a smile and then helped Jake who was about to spill his cup of milk. Picking up his phone, he pressed the speed dial for Diane and then waited for her to answer. He wanted this scheduled so he could get back to his family and enjoy their last bit of time for this trip.

"Diane Miller."

"Diane, it's Jason," he said briskly. "Elizabeth and I decided. Day after tomorrow; morning if possible."

"I'm sure it is," she promised him, and he was sure she would make it possible no matter what she had to do. "I'll call you with the confirmation, but I'm positive I'll see you and your lovely family the day after tomorrow in Judge Lewis' courtroom."

"Thank you, Diane. We'll see you then," he said before hanging up.

As he stepped back out onto the patio, he smiled at Elizabeth's questioning look. "She'll call, but she's sure we'll get the time."

"Then we'll plan on it unless we hear otherwise. Which means these little monkeys need naps."

"No," Jake said surprisingly loud and defiant. "No nap. Want to play."

Jason picked up the little boy and looked at him patiently as he explained, "We were thinking of using the telescope tonight, but that means staying up late. If you don't nap, Jake, you won't be able to stay up. You don't want to miss telescope time, do you?"

"No," Jake shook his head instantly.

"Then do you want to lie down?" he asked. "Maybe we can all lie down on Mommy and Daddy's bed; we could read, lay there...maybe we'll all rest so we're not tired tonight."

Elizabeth picked up Cameron and approached the pair. "What do you think? Should we all rest so we can lots of telescope time tonight?"

Their youngest son nodded and when Elizabeth asked Cam he agreed as well. Jason grinned as he wrapped his arm around Elizabeth and their oldest son and they all turned to go inside. "Then family nap time it is."

Continue On

Head Back to the Main Page