When last we left our heroes....
***
Zander blinked in surprise, then turned. A flash of red caught his eye, and he thought for a moment it was Elizabeth. Then he realized it wasnt.
Across the room, Alexis almost dropped her champagne glass. Oh, my God, she whispered. I dont believe it.
Believe what? Stefan asked. Whats wrong?
Its her.
Who? Stefan craned his neck, and saw a slender girl in a close-fitting red dress. She had straight brown hair and huge brown eyes that stared at Zander intensely. Stefan quickly looked at his son and saw a light in his eyes that he had never seen there before.
Oh, my God.
Exactly, Alexis said. She took a deep breath. Its her. Its Emily Quartermaine.
And now, Dark of the Moon - Chapter 55
***
The ballroom held its collective breath as the young girl in a red dress stood poised on the edge of the dance floor. In the center of the room, the dark-haired young man stared at her, eyes wide with shock and sudden hope.
The band leader grabbed the microphone and shattered the delicate silence. All right everyone, its time for the New Years Eve countdown! Grab your date and prepare to kiss. Ten!
There was a flurry of activity, but still the young couple didnt move.
Nine!
With a smile, the young mans cousin withdrew, leaving him alone.
Eight.
The girl placed one foot onto the dance floor.
Seven!
She hesitated.
Six!
She glanced back at her family, who frowned in disapproval.
Five!
She looked at the young man again.
Three!
His lips silently formed her name.
Two!
She smiled. Light blossomed in her eyes.
One!
As the ballroom exploded in commotion and cheering, the girl ran across the floor and flung herself into the young mans arms. With a whoop of joy, he swept her up and spun her around, lifting her above his head. Confetti and balloons rained down from the ceiling, and she laughed in delight. As the crowd began to sing Auld Lang Syne, she slowly slid down his body, wound her arms around his neck, and buried her face in his chest.
Zander, she said.
Oh, my God, he whispered, clutching her to him as tightly as he could. Oh, my God. Emily.
And just like that, the world rolled over into a new year.
***
Zanders head was spinning, but for once it was a good feeling. Emily was in his arms, and they were dancing. The lights were dim and dreamy, and they swayed slowly back and forth, balloons drifting about the floor around their feet as the singer crooned tenderly into the microphone:
At last,
At last, my love has come along
My lonely days are over
And life is like a song
Zanders brain finally clicked into place and he stared down at Emily in confusion. Hey, youre dancing. I mean walking. I mean dancing.
She beamed up at him. I told you the next time I saw you I would run into your arms. Remember?
Zander smiled. I remember. He frowned suddenly, hesitating. But are you okay? Your back, is it healed? Im not hurting you, am I? He backed away, suddenly afraid to touch her, afraid to break her.
Stop, Emily said firmly as his voice rose in panic. Im fine. Im still in recovery, so Ill need to rest soon, but right now all I want is to dance with you. She grabbed his hands and placed them back on her waist, then wound her arms tightly around his neck.
Zanders face broke into a grin. Okay, he said. He gave Emily an extra twirl and a little dip, and she laughed in delight.
At last
At last the skies are blue
My heart was wrapped up in clover
The night I looked at you
Look at that smile, Alexis said dreamily. Lucky beamed smugly and threw his arm around Nikolas shoulders.
We did good, brother, Lucky said.
That we did, Nikolas murmured.
Alexis narrowed her eyes at them. How long have you two been planning this?
Nikolas shrugged. A few weeks.
Emily wasnt making any progress in her recovery and had basically given up, Lucky explained. Then she heard about Zander being in trouble. About Faison, he clarified. Not Helena. And she just...got up and walked across the room for the first time in two years. Shes still healing, Lucky added. And she needs to rest a lot, but nothing would have kept her from this wedding.
That sounds like a miracle, Stefan said softly.
Alexis leaned her head against his shoulder. Thats Zander and Emily, she said.
I suppose. Stefan couldnt tear his eyes from the couple on the dance floor. He had never seen such pure happiness on his sons face. But he felt guarded as well. Too much had happened in the past year to make him entirely sanguine about this reunion.
As if on cue, Gia walked up, stopped, scowled, and planted her hands on her hips.
What in the hell is she doing here? she asked. Her eyes narrowed. And why is she wearing my dress?
I found a dream, that I could speak to
A dream that I can call my own
I found a thrill to press my cheek to
A thrill that I have never known
Zander glanced over and saw the assembled Quartermaines glaring at him. Your family looks pissed.
Emily raised her chin archly. When have I ever cared what my family thought?
Zander smiled, but his eyes remained troubled. Emily touched his cheek with her finger, and he flinched automatically, averting his eyes.
Whats wrong?
Your familys right. I screwed up so badly, did so many things to hurt you.
I made mistakes, too, Emily said. I should have believed you when you told me about AJ. I should have listened.
Zander shook his head. No, its my fault.
Zander, Emily interrupted. We have a lot of things to talk about, and we need to talk about them. And now that Im home, we can do that.
Zander looked at her. Youre home...for good? His voice cracked on the last word.
Wild horses couldnt drag me away, she said.
You smiled, you smiled
Oh and then the spell was cast
And here we are in heaven
for you are mine
at last
Gia, Nikolas said patiently. Look how happy they are.
She shook her head. You werent there, she said darkly. Her gaze took in the rest of the family, accusing. None of you were, the night he got arrested after she hung up on him. The night he tried to kill himself over her. What if they get back together and she rejects him again? I dont think he could handle it.
Zander has family now, Alexis said firmly. He wont be alone. Besides, I truly think they can work things out, given time and lack of interference from the rest of us. She leveled a stern gaze at Stefan.
Why are you looking at me? he asked irritably.
She merely raised an eyebrow.
I dont interfere, Stefan said loftily. I manage.
Alexis ignored him and turned her glance to the rival clan across the room. Not to mention lack of interference from the Quartermaines.
Good luck with that, Lucky muttered.
They love Emily, Alexis replied stubbornly. Eventually, theyll see that Zander makes her happy.
Nikolas snorted softly. Or theyll try to frame him for assault again.
Stefan felt a spurt of anger and spoke up. Whats that? When was this?
Alexis flapped a hand at him in dismissal. Edward Quartermaine claimed Zander assaulted him. He didnt, of course. Ill explain the rest later, she added, as Stefan opened his mouth to question her some more. Zander and Emily never had a chance before, not really, she said wistfully. Emily left town, Zander got shot, everything fell apart so fast... She shrugged
I can tell you one thing, Lucky interjected. Emily hasnt been happy these last few years. Shes tried, but... Like Alexis, he shrugged helplessly. She missed him.
And I think we all know how Zander felt about losing her, Nikolas added.
The family fell silent for a moment as their eyes returned to the couple on the dance floor. Zander, still looking blissfully befuddled, watched as Emily fiercely hugged Elizabeth Webber. As if sensing their gaze, he turned to the Cassadines. When he saw them watching, he waved happily, his expression like that of a child on Christmas morning. The family gamely waved back. Zander pointed to Emily, and Lucky gave him a cheerful thumbs-up.
Gia huffed out a breath, crossed her arms, and tapped her foot. Fine, she said eventually. But if she hurts him again, Ill kill her. She looked at Stefan, and he nodded stiffly.
Duly noted.
Here they come, Nikolas said under his breath. They turned as Zander approached, beaming and gripping Emilys hand tightly.
Hey, everyone! he announced to the group. Look whos here!
Generously refraining from pointing out that he had orchestrated the entire reunion, Nikolas stepped forward. Welcome home, Emily, he said.
Zander waited, twitching with impatience, as Emily was hugged by Nikolas, Lucky, and Alexis. Then he grabbed her hand again and pulled her over toward Stefan. His eyes were glowing with pride.
This is Emily Quartermaine, he told Stefan breathlessly. He paused. And this is my father, he said to Emily.
Stefans heart actually hurt with joy, and for a moment he couldnt speak. Then he cleared his throat. Weve met, he said gently, and bent to kiss Emilys hand. Its wonderful to see you again, Miss Quartermaine.
You too, Mr. Cassadine, she replied. Stefan had forgotten how beautiful her eyes were, deep and dark and ageless in a face still so young and fresh, despite the suffering Stefan knew she had endured over the past few years.
Im delighted to see you recovered, he said. And that you were able to join us for this happy occasion.
Thank you. Emily replied politely, but she was only half-listening, and her eyes were all for Zander.
Gia interrupted. Thats my dress, she said.
Gia. Nikolas rubbed his eyes.
Oh, Emily momentarily looked confused. I guess it is. I needed something to wear tonight, and this was the dress I wore to the prom... Her voice trailed off and she looked uncertainly up at Zander again.
I remember, he whispered.
Emilys face cleared. She reached for Zanders hand again, and he squeezed it tight.
I remember everything about that night, he murmured huskily.
Oh, my. Alexis said.
Silence, followed by much shuffling of feet and clearing of throats as the group realized they were witnessing a very private moment.
Okay, Gia said briskly. Wear it in good health, then. Her voice gentled. I really am glad to see you well again, Emily.
Emily smiled, blissfully unaware of any tension. Thank you.
Gia turned to Nikolas. Dance with me, my darling, she said. Its my wedding night.
Gladly, he replied, and swept her into his arms and out onto the dance floor.
That sounds like an excellent idea, Elizabeth Webber walked up and claimed Luckys arm. If youll excuse us...
Honey, Im on crutches, Lucky objected teasingly, but she shook her head.
I dont care. You sat out the rest of the night, so get your butt out there.
Women, Lucky smiled at the group. Whaddya gonna do? He gamely followed Elizabeth, and a few moments later they were swaying dreamily to the music, Lucky pivoting on one crutch while his free hand stroked Elizabeths glossy dark hair.
Zander turned to Emily Would you like to dance again?
Id love to, she said eagerly, but a stern voice interrupted her.
Im afraid not, Emily, Monica Quartermaine said. Alan loomed behind her, frowning.
Mom, Emily objected, but her mother shook her head.
You need to rest. Monica nodded stiffly at Stefan. Im sure Zander does, too. He hasnt been well lately.
Zander scowled, humiliated to have his health discussed in public. Im fine, he said, biting off his words.
Oh. Emily looked up at him in distress. Nikolas told me you had pneumonia. I should have thought of that. She patted his chest hesitantly. Do you need to sit down, baby?
Im fine, Zander insisted belligerently, and scowled even more ferociously at the Quartermaines.
Stefan placed a calming hand on his arm. Its been a long evening for everyone, Alexander. Im sure Miss Quartermaine needs to rest.
Im fine! Emilys voice started to rise as well. I just got here!
Stefan is right, Alan spoke up. Besides, either you leave quietly, young lady, or your grandfather will drag you out in front of all these people. Is that what you want? He nodded across the room, where Edward stood scowling, arms folded, flanked by AJ and Ned in similar postures. You promised, Em, Alan added quietly, as Emilys lower lip started to poke out. One dance and then youd go home. You promised, he repeated, raising a finger for silence as she tried to reply.
Tears sparkled in Emilys eyes and she folded her arms across her chest. Okay, but can I just say good night to Zander?
Now, Emily,
Emily quivered with fury, and Stefan noted with amusement that she seemed about to stomp her foot.
Fine! she spat. Ill go! She turned to Zander, her voice becoming tender again. Will you call me? Tomorrow?
The anger in Zanders eyes turned to delight. Seriously? You want me to?
Emily nodded. Uh-huh. We can...talk about stuff. Her hand lingered on his arm for a second. Okay?
Okay, Zander said breathlessly.
Good. Emily smiled.
Emily
Im coming! she snarled, then turned back to Zander one last time. Good night, she whispered.
Good night. Zander gazed dreamily after Emily as she turned and strode across the ballroom, her parents trailing in her wake.
Emily, I want you to sit down, Monica ordered. Well have Reginald bring up your wheelchair and
I dont need my wheelchair, Mom.
Stefan stifled a smile, then turned to Zander. We should get you home as well.
Okay, Zander answered automatically, but he wasnt really listening. His eyes lingered across the room. The rest of the assembled Quartermaines were bumping into each other in confusion as Emily swept through their ranks, head held high, and marched out of the room. Her parents scurried along behind her, and the rest quickly followed, Edward shooting one final menacing stare toward Zander.
Between Stefan and Alexis, they managed to get Zander back to Wyndemere, although in his blissed-out haze he had a distressing tendency to literally bump into walls and doorways, and as the launch reached the island, he was so distracted he almost pitched into the black water of the bay. Finally, Pyotor took charge, grabbing Zander firmly by the shoulders and steering him into the house.
Inside, Alexis stretched. I dont know about anyone else, but I need a nightcap.
The others agreed readily. They were all exhausted, but too wired from the excitement of the day to sleep. Zander tugged at his tie, finally pulling it over his head in annoyance. Im gonna change out of this monkey suit, he announced to no one in particular. Ill be down in a little while. He headed upstairs to his room, only once wandering off into the wrong wing and needing to be guided back by Pyotor.
Alexis went to check on Kristina, and Stefan threw himself into his chair in the family room, stretching out his legs. He closed his eyes, trying to shove aside the guilt he felt for leaving the reception early. Gia and Nikolas would be departing for their honeymoon at any moment, and it was Stefans duty as host to see them off and then oversee the reception, which would continue into the wee hours. (All the rooms at the Port Charles Hotel had been booked for the evening nobody wanted to worry about tipsy guests ending up in the bottom of the harbor as they tried to board the launch to Wyndemere.)
But Nikolas had insisted that Stefan go home. Get some rest, he said. This is only the beginning. Stefan groaned at the thought. More parties were planned once Gia and Nikolas returned from their six-week honeymoon in Greece.
Stefan rubbed his eyes tiredly, and his fingers fumbled for the remote control of the stereo system. He pressed a button at random, then sighed in contentment as music flowed out of the hidden speakers. Despite his spinning thoughts, he found himself nodding off. He jerked awake in alarm as Alexis entered.
Whats wrong? he asked.
Nothing, Alexis soothed. You fell asleep.
Nonsense. Im wide awake. Stefan rubbed his eyes and looked at his watch, but the numbers seemed to swim.
Dont worry, everythings fine. Alexis listened to the music for a moment with her head tilted to the side, then smiled. Rachmaninoff, she said. I should have known.
My favorite, Stefan murmured, closing his eyes again. Opus 31, The Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom. He heard ice clinking in a glass and gratefully held out his hand for the drink, then pressed the cool glass to his forehead. Kristina? he asked.
Sound asleep, Alexis replied. Still wearing her party dress, of course, she added. Apparently, she threw a fit when Mrs. Lansbury tried to get it off her.
A true Cassadine. Stefan sighed deeply, letting the deep male voices of the chorus roll over him like waves, feeling the tension once again slowly dissolving from his body to the hypnotic refrain, Gospodi, pomily.
Lord, have mercy, Stefan sang along quietly in Russian. Have mercy upon us according to the multitude of thy mercies.
God had been merciful to the Cassadines, he mused, as his mind went over the events of the past year. There had been many terrible moments, too many of them, but truly, things could have ended up so much worse. Helena was dead, Olivia was gone, Gia and Nikolas were married, the family was safe under one roof, Alexander
Stefans head came up with a snap, and he looked around blearily. I thought Alexander said he was going to join us. He shook off the seductive pull of sleep and stretched his limbs. He must have fallen asleep, he told Alexis. I should check on him. He started to rise from his chair, then noticed that Alexis hadnt moved. She sat, still calmly sipping her drink and staring into the fire, lazily dangling one of her Valentino pumps off the tips of her toes. He frowned. You seem unconcerned.
Alexis looked at him over the rim of her glass. Oh, Stefan, was all she said.
Yes? he asked with asperity. Is there something you wish to say?
Alexis glanced at her watch. If my calculations are correct, Zander is climbing through Emily Quartermaines window right about now.
What? Stefan stood, appalled. Thats impossible.
Alexis shrugged. Hes done it plenty of times before.
But he said he was going to... His voice trailed off as he stared at Alexis. Did he say anything to you about this? he snapped.
Alexis swirled the brandy in her glass. Nope. But I know Zander.
Cursing under his breath, Stefan strode to the bell pull and summoned the guards.
Go check on my son, he ordered curtly. Then he paced, not meeting Alexis gaze, until the guard returned two minutes later, eyes wide with fear.
Sir, I swear to God--
Save it! Stefan snapped. Find him. And find out how he got out of this house under your very noses, he yelled after his rapidly retreating employee.
He probably used the tunnels, Alexis offered.
Stefan gritted his teeth to keep from raising his voice. Thank you, sister, Im sure that conjecture will be most helpful.
Stefan, Alexis voice was gentle. Calm down. Youll give yourself an aneurysm.
He lied to me, Alexis, Stefan ground out. I thought I could trust him. He ran his hands through his hair in frustration, then scrubbed his face with his hands. Its not safe for him to be out there, he said wearily. Anything could happen.
Alexis stood and stretched, then kissed Stefan on the cheek and patted his shoulder. Get some sleep, Stefan. Dont worry, she added as she strolled out the door. Im sure he took Pyotor with him.
Sure enough, the next morning when Stefan received a phone call from an apoplectic Edward Quartermaine screaming about his deviant son violating my granddaughter, the old man also demanded that he, Get that BEHEMOTH out of my house!
Alexis smiled over the breakfast table as Stefan hung up the phone, cursing.
Heading over to the Quartermaines? she asked sweetly.
Yes, he said through his teeth. And you can stop smirking any time.
Alexis turned serenely back to the morning paper. Welcome to my world, Stefan, was all she said. But he could hear her laughter floating after him as he stormed out of the house.
***
To be continued...
***
Zander blinked in surprise, then turned. A flash of red caught his eye, and he thought for a moment it was Elizabeth. Then he realized it wasnt.
Across the room, Alexis almost dropped her champagne glass. Oh, my God, she whispered. I dont believe it.
Believe what? Stefan asked. Whats wrong?
Its her.
Who? Stefan craned his neck, and saw a slender girl in a close-fitting red dress. She had straight brown hair and huge brown eyes that stared at Zander intensely. Stefan quickly looked at his son and saw a light in his eyes that he had never seen there before.
Oh, my God.
Exactly, Alexis said. She took a deep breath. Its her. Its Emily Quartermaine.
And now, Dark of the Moon - Chapter 55
***
The ballroom held its collective breath as the young girl in a red dress stood poised on the edge of the dance floor. In the center of the room, the dark-haired young man stared at her, eyes wide with shock and sudden hope.
The band leader grabbed the microphone and shattered the delicate silence. All right everyone, its time for the New Years Eve countdown! Grab your date and prepare to kiss. Ten!
There was a flurry of activity, but still the young couple didnt move.
Nine!
With a smile, the young mans cousin withdrew, leaving him alone.
Eight.
The girl placed one foot onto the dance floor.
Seven!
She hesitated.
Six!
She glanced back at her family, who frowned in disapproval.
Five!
She looked at the young man again.
Three!
His lips silently formed her name.
Two!
She smiled. Light blossomed in her eyes.
One!
As the ballroom exploded in commotion and cheering, the girl ran across the floor and flung herself into the young mans arms. With a whoop of joy, he swept her up and spun her around, lifting her above his head. Confetti and balloons rained down from the ceiling, and she laughed in delight. As the crowd began to sing Auld Lang Syne, she slowly slid down his body, wound her arms around his neck, and buried her face in his chest.
Zander, she said.
Oh, my God, he whispered, clutching her to him as tightly as he could. Oh, my God. Emily.
And just like that, the world rolled over into a new year.
***
Zanders head was spinning, but for once it was a good feeling. Emily was in his arms, and they were dancing. The lights were dim and dreamy, and they swayed slowly back and forth, balloons drifting about the floor around their feet as the singer crooned tenderly into the microphone:
At last,
At last, my love has come along
My lonely days are over
And life is like a song
Zanders brain finally clicked into place and he stared down at Emily in confusion. Hey, youre dancing. I mean walking. I mean dancing.
She beamed up at him. I told you the next time I saw you I would run into your arms. Remember?
Zander smiled. I remember. He frowned suddenly, hesitating. But are you okay? Your back, is it healed? Im not hurting you, am I? He backed away, suddenly afraid to touch her, afraid to break her.
Stop, Emily said firmly as his voice rose in panic. Im fine. Im still in recovery, so Ill need to rest soon, but right now all I want is to dance with you. She grabbed his hands and placed them back on her waist, then wound her arms tightly around his neck.
Zanders face broke into a grin. Okay, he said. He gave Emily an extra twirl and a little dip, and she laughed in delight.
At last
At last the skies are blue
My heart was wrapped up in clover
The night I looked at you
Look at that smile, Alexis said dreamily. Lucky beamed smugly and threw his arm around Nikolas shoulders.
We did good, brother, Lucky said.
That we did, Nikolas murmured.
Alexis narrowed her eyes at them. How long have you two been planning this?
Nikolas shrugged. A few weeks.
Emily wasnt making any progress in her recovery and had basically given up, Lucky explained. Then she heard about Zander being in trouble. About Faison, he clarified. Not Helena. And she just...got up and walked across the room for the first time in two years. Shes still healing, Lucky added. And she needs to rest a lot, but nothing would have kept her from this wedding.
That sounds like a miracle, Stefan said softly.
Alexis leaned her head against his shoulder. Thats Zander and Emily, she said.
I suppose. Stefan couldnt tear his eyes from the couple on the dance floor. He had never seen such pure happiness on his sons face. But he felt guarded as well. Too much had happened in the past year to make him entirely sanguine about this reunion.
As if on cue, Gia walked up, stopped, scowled, and planted her hands on her hips.
What in the hell is she doing here? she asked. Her eyes narrowed. And why is she wearing my dress?
I found a dream, that I could speak to
A dream that I can call my own
I found a thrill to press my cheek to
A thrill that I have never known
Zander glanced over and saw the assembled Quartermaines glaring at him. Your family looks pissed.
Emily raised her chin archly. When have I ever cared what my family thought?
Zander smiled, but his eyes remained troubled. Emily touched his cheek with her finger, and he flinched automatically, averting his eyes.
Whats wrong?
Your familys right. I screwed up so badly, did so many things to hurt you.
I made mistakes, too, Emily said. I should have believed you when you told me about AJ. I should have listened.
Zander shook his head. No, its my fault.
Zander, Emily interrupted. We have a lot of things to talk about, and we need to talk about them. And now that Im home, we can do that.
Zander looked at her. Youre home...for good? His voice cracked on the last word.
Wild horses couldnt drag me away, she said.
You smiled, you smiled
Oh and then the spell was cast
And here we are in heaven
for you are mine
at last
Gia, Nikolas said patiently. Look how happy they are.
She shook her head. You werent there, she said darkly. Her gaze took in the rest of the family, accusing. None of you were, the night he got arrested after she hung up on him. The night he tried to kill himself over her. What if they get back together and she rejects him again? I dont think he could handle it.
Zander has family now, Alexis said firmly. He wont be alone. Besides, I truly think they can work things out, given time and lack of interference from the rest of us. She leveled a stern gaze at Stefan.
Why are you looking at me? he asked irritably.
She merely raised an eyebrow.
I dont interfere, Stefan said loftily. I manage.
Alexis ignored him and turned her glance to the rival clan across the room. Not to mention lack of interference from the Quartermaines.
Good luck with that, Lucky muttered.
They love Emily, Alexis replied stubbornly. Eventually, theyll see that Zander makes her happy.
Nikolas snorted softly. Or theyll try to frame him for assault again.
Stefan felt a spurt of anger and spoke up. Whats that? When was this?
Alexis flapped a hand at him in dismissal. Edward Quartermaine claimed Zander assaulted him. He didnt, of course. Ill explain the rest later, she added, as Stefan opened his mouth to question her some more. Zander and Emily never had a chance before, not really, she said wistfully. Emily left town, Zander got shot, everything fell apart so fast... She shrugged
I can tell you one thing, Lucky interjected. Emily hasnt been happy these last few years. Shes tried, but... Like Alexis, he shrugged helplessly. She missed him.
And I think we all know how Zander felt about losing her, Nikolas added.
The family fell silent for a moment as their eyes returned to the couple on the dance floor. Zander, still looking blissfully befuddled, watched as Emily fiercely hugged Elizabeth Webber. As if sensing their gaze, he turned to the Cassadines. When he saw them watching, he waved happily, his expression like that of a child on Christmas morning. The family gamely waved back. Zander pointed to Emily, and Lucky gave him a cheerful thumbs-up.
Gia huffed out a breath, crossed her arms, and tapped her foot. Fine, she said eventually. But if she hurts him again, Ill kill her. She looked at Stefan, and he nodded stiffly.
Duly noted.
Here they come, Nikolas said under his breath. They turned as Zander approached, beaming and gripping Emilys hand tightly.
Hey, everyone! he announced to the group. Look whos here!
Generously refraining from pointing out that he had orchestrated the entire reunion, Nikolas stepped forward. Welcome home, Emily, he said.
Zander waited, twitching with impatience, as Emily was hugged by Nikolas, Lucky, and Alexis. Then he grabbed her hand again and pulled her over toward Stefan. His eyes were glowing with pride.
This is Emily Quartermaine, he told Stefan breathlessly. He paused. And this is my father, he said to Emily.
Stefans heart actually hurt with joy, and for a moment he couldnt speak. Then he cleared his throat. Weve met, he said gently, and bent to kiss Emilys hand. Its wonderful to see you again, Miss Quartermaine.
You too, Mr. Cassadine, she replied. Stefan had forgotten how beautiful her eyes were, deep and dark and ageless in a face still so young and fresh, despite the suffering Stefan knew she had endured over the past few years.
Im delighted to see you recovered, he said. And that you were able to join us for this happy occasion.
Thank you. Emily replied politely, but she was only half-listening, and her eyes were all for Zander.
Gia interrupted. Thats my dress, she said.
Gia. Nikolas rubbed his eyes.
Oh, Emily momentarily looked confused. I guess it is. I needed something to wear tonight, and this was the dress I wore to the prom... Her voice trailed off and she looked uncertainly up at Zander again.
I remember, he whispered.
Emilys face cleared. She reached for Zanders hand again, and he squeezed it tight.
I remember everything about that night, he murmured huskily.
Oh, my. Alexis said.
Silence, followed by much shuffling of feet and clearing of throats as the group realized they were witnessing a very private moment.
Okay, Gia said briskly. Wear it in good health, then. Her voice gentled. I really am glad to see you well again, Emily.
Emily smiled, blissfully unaware of any tension. Thank you.
Gia turned to Nikolas. Dance with me, my darling, she said. Its my wedding night.
Gladly, he replied, and swept her into his arms and out onto the dance floor.
That sounds like an excellent idea, Elizabeth Webber walked up and claimed Luckys arm. If youll excuse us...
Honey, Im on crutches, Lucky objected teasingly, but she shook her head.
I dont care. You sat out the rest of the night, so get your butt out there.
Women, Lucky smiled at the group. Whaddya gonna do? He gamely followed Elizabeth, and a few moments later they were swaying dreamily to the music, Lucky pivoting on one crutch while his free hand stroked Elizabeths glossy dark hair.
Zander turned to Emily Would you like to dance again?
Id love to, she said eagerly, but a stern voice interrupted her.
Im afraid not, Emily, Monica Quartermaine said. Alan loomed behind her, frowning.
Mom, Emily objected, but her mother shook her head.
You need to rest. Monica nodded stiffly at Stefan. Im sure Zander does, too. He hasnt been well lately.
Zander scowled, humiliated to have his health discussed in public. Im fine, he said, biting off his words.
Oh. Emily looked up at him in distress. Nikolas told me you had pneumonia. I should have thought of that. She patted his chest hesitantly. Do you need to sit down, baby?
Im fine, Zander insisted belligerently, and scowled even more ferociously at the Quartermaines.
Stefan placed a calming hand on his arm. Its been a long evening for everyone, Alexander. Im sure Miss Quartermaine needs to rest.
Im fine! Emilys voice started to rise as well. I just got here!
Stefan is right, Alan spoke up. Besides, either you leave quietly, young lady, or your grandfather will drag you out in front of all these people. Is that what you want? He nodded across the room, where Edward stood scowling, arms folded, flanked by AJ and Ned in similar postures. You promised, Em, Alan added quietly, as Emilys lower lip started to poke out. One dance and then youd go home. You promised, he repeated, raising a finger for silence as she tried to reply.
Tears sparkled in Emilys eyes and she folded her arms across her chest. Okay, but can I just say good night to Zander?
Now, Emily,
Emily quivered with fury, and Stefan noted with amusement that she seemed about to stomp her foot.
Fine! she spat. Ill go! She turned to Zander, her voice becoming tender again. Will you call me? Tomorrow?
The anger in Zanders eyes turned to delight. Seriously? You want me to?
Emily nodded. Uh-huh. We can...talk about stuff. Her hand lingered on his arm for a second. Okay?
Okay, Zander said breathlessly.
Good. Emily smiled.
Emily
Im coming! she snarled, then turned back to Zander one last time. Good night, she whispered.
Good night. Zander gazed dreamily after Emily as she turned and strode across the ballroom, her parents trailing in her wake.
Emily, I want you to sit down, Monica ordered. Well have Reginald bring up your wheelchair and
I dont need my wheelchair, Mom.
Stefan stifled a smile, then turned to Zander. We should get you home as well.
Okay, Zander answered automatically, but he wasnt really listening. His eyes lingered across the room. The rest of the assembled Quartermaines were bumping into each other in confusion as Emily swept through their ranks, head held high, and marched out of the room. Her parents scurried along behind her, and the rest quickly followed, Edward shooting one final menacing stare toward Zander.
Between Stefan and Alexis, they managed to get Zander back to Wyndemere, although in his blissed-out haze he had a distressing tendency to literally bump into walls and doorways, and as the launch reached the island, he was so distracted he almost pitched into the black water of the bay. Finally, Pyotor took charge, grabbing Zander firmly by the shoulders and steering him into the house.
Inside, Alexis stretched. I dont know about anyone else, but I need a nightcap.
The others agreed readily. They were all exhausted, but too wired from the excitement of the day to sleep. Zander tugged at his tie, finally pulling it over his head in annoyance. Im gonna change out of this monkey suit, he announced to no one in particular. Ill be down in a little while. He headed upstairs to his room, only once wandering off into the wrong wing and needing to be guided back by Pyotor.
Alexis went to check on Kristina, and Stefan threw himself into his chair in the family room, stretching out his legs. He closed his eyes, trying to shove aside the guilt he felt for leaving the reception early. Gia and Nikolas would be departing for their honeymoon at any moment, and it was Stefans duty as host to see them off and then oversee the reception, which would continue into the wee hours. (All the rooms at the Port Charles Hotel had been booked for the evening nobody wanted to worry about tipsy guests ending up in the bottom of the harbor as they tried to board the launch to Wyndemere.)
But Nikolas had insisted that Stefan go home. Get some rest, he said. This is only the beginning. Stefan groaned at the thought. More parties were planned once Gia and Nikolas returned from their six-week honeymoon in Greece.
Stefan rubbed his eyes tiredly, and his fingers fumbled for the remote control of the stereo system. He pressed a button at random, then sighed in contentment as music flowed out of the hidden speakers. Despite his spinning thoughts, he found himself nodding off. He jerked awake in alarm as Alexis entered.
Whats wrong? he asked.
Nothing, Alexis soothed. You fell asleep.
Nonsense. Im wide awake. Stefan rubbed his eyes and looked at his watch, but the numbers seemed to swim.
Dont worry, everythings fine. Alexis listened to the music for a moment with her head tilted to the side, then smiled. Rachmaninoff, she said. I should have known.
My favorite, Stefan murmured, closing his eyes again. Opus 31, The Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom. He heard ice clinking in a glass and gratefully held out his hand for the drink, then pressed the cool glass to his forehead. Kristina? he asked.
Sound asleep, Alexis replied. Still wearing her party dress, of course, she added. Apparently, she threw a fit when Mrs. Lansbury tried to get it off her.
A true Cassadine. Stefan sighed deeply, letting the deep male voices of the chorus roll over him like waves, feeling the tension once again slowly dissolving from his body to the hypnotic refrain, Gospodi, pomily.
Lord, have mercy, Stefan sang along quietly in Russian. Have mercy upon us according to the multitude of thy mercies.
God had been merciful to the Cassadines, he mused, as his mind went over the events of the past year. There had been many terrible moments, too many of them, but truly, things could have ended up so much worse. Helena was dead, Olivia was gone, Gia and Nikolas were married, the family was safe under one roof, Alexander
Stefans head came up with a snap, and he looked around blearily. I thought Alexander said he was going to join us. He shook off the seductive pull of sleep and stretched his limbs. He must have fallen asleep, he told Alexis. I should check on him. He started to rise from his chair, then noticed that Alexis hadnt moved. She sat, still calmly sipping her drink and staring into the fire, lazily dangling one of her Valentino pumps off the tips of her toes. He frowned. You seem unconcerned.
Alexis looked at him over the rim of her glass. Oh, Stefan, was all she said.
Yes? he asked with asperity. Is there something you wish to say?
Alexis glanced at her watch. If my calculations are correct, Zander is climbing through Emily Quartermaines window right about now.
What? Stefan stood, appalled. Thats impossible.
Alexis shrugged. Hes done it plenty of times before.
But he said he was going to... His voice trailed off as he stared at Alexis. Did he say anything to you about this? he snapped.
Alexis swirled the brandy in her glass. Nope. But I know Zander.
Cursing under his breath, Stefan strode to the bell pull and summoned the guards.
Go check on my son, he ordered curtly. Then he paced, not meeting Alexis gaze, until the guard returned two minutes later, eyes wide with fear.
Sir, I swear to God--
Save it! Stefan snapped. Find him. And find out how he got out of this house under your very noses, he yelled after his rapidly retreating employee.
He probably used the tunnels, Alexis offered.
Stefan gritted his teeth to keep from raising his voice. Thank you, sister, Im sure that conjecture will be most helpful.
Stefan, Alexis voice was gentle. Calm down. Youll give yourself an aneurysm.
He lied to me, Alexis, Stefan ground out. I thought I could trust him. He ran his hands through his hair in frustration, then scrubbed his face with his hands. Its not safe for him to be out there, he said wearily. Anything could happen.
Alexis stood and stretched, then kissed Stefan on the cheek and patted his shoulder. Get some sleep, Stefan. Dont worry, she added as she strolled out the door. Im sure he took Pyotor with him.
Sure enough, the next morning when Stefan received a phone call from an apoplectic Edward Quartermaine screaming about his deviant son violating my granddaughter, the old man also demanded that he, Get that BEHEMOTH out of my house!
Alexis smiled over the breakfast table as Stefan hung up the phone, cursing.
Heading over to the Quartermaines? she asked sweetly.
Yes, he said through his teeth. And you can stop smirking any time.
Alexis turned serenely back to the morning paper. Welcome to my world, Stefan, was all she said. But he could hear her laughter floating after him as he stormed out of the house.
***
To be continued...
