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So yes Prop is back after a long, long hiatus. This chapter is mostly me getting a feel for where everyone is at. Any feedback good, bad, indifferent will be given chocolate hand delivered by the Cassadine, Morgan, Spencer or Baldwin of your choice.

"I know Alexis Davis," Scott Baldwin announced with an laugh and an exaggerated leer that made Alexis' feel vaguely nauseous, ye t seemed to reduce the rest of the audience to fits of laughter. She was really going to have to hurt Stefan for this, Alexis decided. Some type of poison perhaps, something nice and lethal. She'd flirt with the pathologist if necessary to beat the rap, or maybe head off to a Eastern Asian archipelago with Jason and Kristina. Traveling was supposed to be good for a family. Perhaps a nice trip to a Baltic state with no extradition policy and all the time the comforting memory of killing Stefan for putting her through this, a total win-win Alexis decided forcing a false smile to cover her face.

"I know Alexis," Scott repeated clearly relishing his role as town comedian. No wonder he still went to Toastmasters, no one loved being the center of attention quite like Scott Baldwin. Smiling at the audience he said, "I've also known Natasha and Eddie's Angel." Scott paused and offered what Alexis took to be naughty smile. Again the audience roared with laughter as if the Marx Brothers, Kathy Griffin and the duo from Little Britain were all enacting a triple routine. Scott again paused and smiled at the crowd, obviously eating up the attention, the ham getting a double dose of the chow he craved. He was like that Vampire woman on Being Human greedily gulping down pints of blood. Actually imagining Scott gulping down pints of blood wasn't that jarring ,Alexis decided. In fact all of Laura's lovers had a slightly creepy aura. Luke looked like someone had locked him in a coffin for a couple of decades, Scott seemed like a werewolf type, and Stefan had far to many gargoyles around Wyndamere for anything less than bloodfest. The thought of bloodshed, returned Alexis to a central tenant of her thinking for the past few weeks. How was she going to punish Stefan for this joke of a ceremony?

For years and years she had toiled plying her trade, honing her skills, becoming a talented attorney and for what? To exhaust her skills trying to keep the town mafioso out of prison, then to have Stefan to push her into an arranged marriage, and now after not trying a case for so long she was sure she didn't remember how, to have the New York Bar award her their attorney of the year. Not that she was remotely surprised the award was for sale, but that she'd participate in the sale was rather disappointing. One more part of her life she'd cast aside on Cassadine orders. She'd been a hypocrite for years, but having it so blatantly displayed for the entire state of New York. Stefan was just going to have to pay.

Even as she was contemplating Stefan's eternal punishment and likely damnation, a svelte blonde entered the room. Courtney was decked out in a skin fitting lavender dress with a low neckline. Alexis inclined her head slightly whispering to Jason, "You have an admirer."

Following his wife's lead, Jason turned his head slightly. "What is she doing here?" He asked pressing his lips close to her face, so that to onlookers he merely seemed to be giving his wife an affectionate peck on the cheek.

Alexis made no comment, forcing herself not to scowl at the blonde. The roar ingof the crowd returned her focus to Scotty's speech, half fearing he'd brought along candid photos of Eddie's Angel. Apparently she returned focus just in time for he stretched his arm out and announced happily,

"Ladies and gentleman the New York Bar Association lawyer of the Year 2009," Scott said pausing for dramatic effect before announcing, "Alexis Davis."

Alexis rose and walked slowly to the podium. Only two thoughts were on her mind…She was really just going to have to kill Stefan and she was going to have to handle Courtney Matthews too. Arriving at the podium she waited for the applause to die down before saying, "Thank you so much for this honor. I don't believe I quite have the words to express what receiving it means to me."

"Jason seems very fond of Alexis," Skye said sounding a trace wistful.

"His taste in women is appalling." Edward bellowed grumpily. "Aside from dear Robin Scorpio its been a parade of low life morally decrepit individuals."

"Grandfather," Emily sighed before adding in a chiding tone. "Alexis isn't a lowlife."

"Possibly," Edward granted begrudgingly. "But she is morally bankrupt and downright shady."

"I'd think you'd respect her then." Skye replied.

"She's also years older than Jason." Monica announced. "A virtual cougar."

"Monica," Skye said feigning innocence. "With your history with men I'd assume you would celebrate the joys of cougardom ."

"Cougars are always cool." Lucky Spencer offered with a wry smile.

"I'm totally going to be a cougar!" Emily announced to no one in particular, a mirthful smile playing across her face. "I'll be the old lady checking out the young studs at the DMV, then taking them home for a test drive.."

Edward blanched, "Young lady! In my day."

"Grandmother told me about your day." Emily said warningly. "She said you two had some real fun in the back of a Bentley."

"I do not remember anything of the sort." Edward insisted, however he quickly turned toward Lucky braying, "Young man how did you get invited to this dinner?" Edward asked directly, "Your father is the town scoundrel. You got booted off the police force. Not to mention the Cassadines consider your family the scum of the Earth. Yet here you sit."

"Emily invited me." Lucky replied snapping a breadstick into two pieces. "And my father loves Alexis. She's also represented my family in some murder cases."

"I thought you were seeing Gia," Edward said studying Emily.

"I am kind of…" He said in a tone so indecisive as to be non-informative. "Anyways she's up to her elbows in party planning."

"And well," Edward said clearly uncomfortable, "Is she with child….with you?" His clumsy deliver and obvious discomfort caused smiles around the table.

Lucky, however, responded, "No sir. If so I'd be putting a ring on her finger."

Edward nodded as if this response made sense to him. "And yet you are sort of seeing her."

"Grandfather," Emily warned her tone clearly conveying the topic was a no-go for her.

"Em," Lucky said, "It's a fair question. The way I see it Mr. Q. Gia's always been a real friend to me. When Helena was playing games with my mind, Gia went to the wall for me." He shook his head as always uncomfortable remembering that time. "She could have been killed or kidnapped. Yet she never flinched or backed down." He smiled saying, "I'll go to any wall for her."

Edward grunted agreein, "That's fine. Commendable." Turning his attention toward Emily he said,

"Not that I want to know, but why isn't Nikolas here to support his aunt this evening." Edward asked in an accusatory tone leaving little doubt of his feelings on that subject. "Is he off powdering his wig or prancing around with some European prince?"

"Grandfather for the five hundredth time," Emily snapped more irritated than angry. "Nikolas is not gay."

"Not that there is anything wrong with that." Monica quickly interjected.

"If Nikolas was gay," Skye mused thoughtfully "He'd ditch those riding pants he keeps buying. Tragic," She said regretfully.

　

"How much did you pay for this whole thing?" Tracy asked turning to face Stefan.

"That's irrelevant." He said.

"Too much," Tracy surmised rolling her eyes. "You should have let me handle negotiations. You're too sentimental."

The corners of Stefan's lips lifted ever so slightly, "That is not a charge I've frequently heard regarding my conduct. Still," he said observing the dais, "The money is less important than the ceremony."

"Interesting," Tracy noted doubtfully "Particularly since the guestess of honor looks like she'd rather sit out a long spell in a Siberian camp."

"Alexis hates the cold," Stefan stated before adding, "But her feelings are irrelevant. Tonight is not about her in any significant fashion."

"More interesting," Tracy said drolly. "So who is it about?"

"Tonight was about reminding people of the Cassadine's position and status."

Tracy glanced around the room. "No offense, but buying a tacky award and hosting a rubber chicken dinner hardly signify power or clout. Frankly," She said sounding almost crestfallen, "This seems so tacky and nouveau riche."

This time he managed a real smile stating, "Precisely."

"Meaning?" She asked putting aside her champagne and giving him her full attention.

"Unfortunately the people who are bothersome to me at present are all either middle class or one generation away from being middle class. With such people," Stefan explained tiredly, "One cannot employ much if any creativity."

"So the award and the dinner," Tracy began feeling like she was playing Miss Marple to Hercule Poirot.

"Impress them," Stefan said simply.

"Stefan the longer I know you the less I understand a single thing you say. And," She said with a smile, "I like that about you."

Stefan did not reciprocate for his attention was diverted across the room to where Anna Devane was sitting with Frisco Jones.

"This meat tastes like a rubber chicken Maxie used to play with," Frisco observed dryly.

Anna rolled her eyes informing Bobbie, "Ever since the cable was installed Frisco's become devoted to the Food Network. He fancies himself a connoisseur of food, now."

"Hardly," Frisco demurred lifting his wine glass,. "Simply a man with a selective palate."

"He's forever in the kitchen testing dishes and spices." Anna related in a slightly weary tone.

Bobbie smiled saying, "If he'd had that habit when he lived at the Brownstone, I'd have dropped by for dinner more often."

"Oh, the lessons learnt to late." Frisco observed with a sad sigh as if this knowledge depressed him.

"A little Iron Chef and Barefoot Contessa goes a long way." Anna mused casting a dubious expression at Frsico.

Bobbie smiled indulgently, "I'm just glad you are both home. I wish I saw more of you."

"We will from now on." Frisco promised giving Bobbie's hand a gentle squeeze. "We've been busy."

"Moving, getting settled in all that business." Anna added hastily.

"Of course," Bobbie agreed before asking, "So are you both done with the WSB for good?"

Frisco smiled offering a favorite agency phrase, "No agent is ever done with the Bureau for good."

"But we're happy enough to take a good, long rest here." Anna added smoothly.

A moment later Anna squeezed his thigh. Catching her signal, Frisco rose, "Excuse me ladies. I need to speak to Scott Baldwin about an old legal bill."

Anna watched Frisco cross the room, before turning to Bobbie and saying in an apologetic tone, "I know this must seem slightly odd to you. Me and Frisco."

"Please," Bobbie scoffed banishing the notion. "I've lived here more than long enough to see more couple inversions, swaps and quads than ever occur on The Days of the Bold. Soap operas have nothing on Port Charles." She added with a hearty chuckle.

Anna nodded, "I suppose that's true enough." Her words might have been more convincing if her tone hadn't seemed halting.

"The important thing to me is that you're both happy. You are aren't you?"

Anna smiled promising, "We are or close to it."

"What does that mean?"

Anna pondered the question for a moment. "Frisco and I…well we've both had our troubles. Sometimes I wonder… I wonder if …" She let the words trail off and smiled. "We're fine."

　

"This ceremony is now longer than any trial Alexis has ever been involved with." Edward complained peevishly.

"Oh!" Emily exclaimed excitedly waving across the room. Returning her wave Jax hurriedly strode across the room.

"Good evening everyone." Jax said offering his greetings, before gesturing to an empty chair. "May I join you?"

"Absolutely not." Skye replied quickly.

"Sure," Emily simultaneously answered, smiling happily.

Jax grinned at Emily taking the empty seat between her and Skye . "Where is Alan this evening?"

"He's invisible and you're sitting on him." Skye quipped sourly.

"An emergency at the hospital." Emily explained all the while beaming at Jax.

Ignoring Emily, Edward demanded, "How did you get dragged into this ceremony of ridiculousness."

"I try to attend any public events involving my wives."

"Really," Skye said. "I have a rule like that too."

"Oh." Jax said interestedly.

"Absolutely," She said with an arch smile, "I intend to attend all my ex-husbands' funerals wearing a red dress." Skye punctuated her words with a smile.

"Unfortunately we had to attend because of Jason's situation." Monica said though it was unclear if she was trying to diffuse Skye's comment or if she'd even heard the comment at all. The Quartermaines had a finely honed ability to screen out one another's barbs.

"He and Alexis seem very happy." Jax stated with a surprising frankness. "I can't pretend to understand it, but I had dinner with them the other night. They seem very…." Jax struggled for the correct word, "Married."

"Oh then he's screwing his ex-girlfriend." Skye snapped.

"He should have married Courtney." Monica said glancing over at Courtney sitting a few tables away with Bobbie, Carly, and others.

"No one should marry Courtney." Emily replied flatly brokering no opposition. "She's been a disaster for both of my brothers."

Jax smiled grateful someone at the table was responding to his comments without rancor, "Then I take it you approve of Alexis and Jason, Emily?"

"Absolutely." Emily agreed. "Alexis is so good for Jason. If some people spent some time with them and Krissy they'd see that." She said staring at Monica as she spoke. Before Monica could reply, the family heard applause and all began clapping in the weakest fashion imaginable.

"Thank goodness that's over." Edward said sounding more irritated than even moments before. "How long until we can leave?"

"I don't see Michael." Carly said scanning the room hopefully.

"Why did you think he'd be here?" Courtney asked lowering her voice to a whisper.

"Why else would they invite us?"

"Maybe Jason wanted us here."

Carly glanced over at Courtney with a look of surprise. "I had breakfast with him the other day he didn't mention it."

"He invited you to breakfast." Courtney lifted her glass and took a sip of wine.

"Not exactly," She admitted, "But I've been dropping by every Sunday morning." Carly said with a smile, "They have Belgian waffles on Sunday. I love Belgian waffles."

"They." Courtney mimicked the word in a brusque tone. "So you spent time with Alexis too?"

Carly rolled her eyes, "Yeah. Sucks what I have to do to spend time with my best friend."

"Did they seem happy?"

"No one could be happy living with Alexis." Carly pronounced with withering disdain, instantly smiling at her witticism. "He seems content." She shrugged and took a sip of champagne.

"It's not going to last." Courtney vowed peering over and catching sight of Jason seemingly deep in conversation with Alexis.

　

"You know," Alexis observed glancing around the room. "If we took every person in this room that disliked me, disapproved of me, or who had no opinion whatsoever of me I think the only people left would be Emily, Lucky and Jax."

"If you did the same thing for me it would be Carly, Monica and Emily."

"So exactly one person in the room likes both of us." She said shaking her head. "If I gave a damn that would be tragic."

Jason lips moved into a small smile, "You're starting to sound like me."

Alexis chuckled before replying, "I don't even want to contemplate what that might mean."

"Do you want to contemplate dancing with your husband?"

Alexis smiled, "I could contemplate that." She agreed. Offering her an easy smile Jason stood up and extended his hand.

As they walked to the dance floor, Emily sighed approvingly, "They seem very good for each other."

Monica merely took a gulp of her drink looking far less pleased than Emily. "He could have been an established surgeon by now."

Emily seemed prepared to say something, but instead silently turned watching Alexis and Jason with a renewed and seemingly somber interest. "Sometimes," She admitted softly, "I forget about all of that." Her eyes filled, "And then I remember."

Lucky reached over and lightly touched his fingers to the base of Emily's neck. "Em," He murmured softly. "Em."

"You didn't know him then," Monica said absently and it was unclear who she was speaking to. "We had such hopes for him, such love. He had the makings of a fine doctor. The right skills, the necessary compassion. Alan and I were so proud." She said following Jason with her eyes. "Then one day it was just gone. He was gone."

　

"Your mother is watching us." Alexis informed Jason, lowering her voice so that only Jason could hear her words.

Jason slid his gaze over to the table, taking in the haunted look the entire table had taken. "I know that look."

"Am I supposed to understand that remark?"

"No," He replied hastily. Then as if wanting to add something, "She's thinking about him, me I guess. Maybe seeing me in the coat and tie…."

"And seeing me with you."

Looking slightly perplexed by her words Jason said, "You're my wife."

"That's a concept most of the town still isn't comfortable with," Alexis reminded him.

"I'm very comfortable with us."

Alexis quickly moved the subject to safer waters, "You should ask her to dance."

"Wha?" Jason asked aware she'd changed the subject, but not wanting to push her beyond her comfort zone.

Alexis dropped her hands and turned him slightly. "Ask your mother to dance."

"What are you going to do?"

"I've got a little situation to handle." She said watching Courtney exit the room.

Jason eyed her uneasily. "Not sure I like the sound of it."

"Oh but you will." She promised turning and drifting out of his line of vision..

Crossing the room Jason watched Monica watching him approach her. Stopping in front of the table he said, "Monica?" He inclined his head indicating the dance floor. "Would you like to?"

Smiling brightly Monica said, "I would love to."

As they walked toward the dance floor, Jax rose to his feet. "Skye how about a dance?"

Shooting him a withering expression Skye replied, "You have got to be kidding."

"Come on," He urged coolly.

Skye shrugged and rose saying, "It beats sitting here."

"Em?" Lucky said offering a toothy grin. "Whacha say we show off our fancy footwork?"

Emily turned giving Lucky a bemused look. "Do you have any fancy footwork?"

"I'm a Spencer." Lucky replied touching his chest as if affronted by her question. "I can dance for days."

Laughing Emily said, "I don't know about days, but a dance or so would be nice." Within seconds they had joined the others on the dance floor.

Watching his family Edward growled, "Alone again?"

"So Les," Scott said leading Lesley toward the dance floor. "Thanks for being my substitute date this evening."

"I should thank you." Lesley said falling into step with Scott. "Since I've been back I've had far to many quiet evenings at home. This is a real treat."

"Well," He said uneasily. "I know a lot of people don't care for this thing."

"If I didn't come," She said supportively, "I'd miss a Scott Baldwin speech." She said laughing. "Never, ever going to happen."

"It was a good speech wasn't he?" He asked preening.

"It was very," She paused searching for appropriate compliment, "It was perfectly you Scotty."

He grinned, "It was great. Did you like the bit about Alexis being Naughty Natasha?"

"I bet she loved that." Lesley replied wryly.

Moving past Scott and Lesley, Courtney approached Jason and Monica. Touching Monica's shoulder she asked, "May I cut in."

Monica smiled, "Of course Courtney."

"Uh," Jason said dropping his hands. "Let's get a drink." He said maneuvering Courtney toward the opposite side of the room. "What are you doing here?" He asked sounding more anxious than interested.

"You invited me." She said sounding a touch defensive.

Jason shook his head, "Why would I do that?"

Courtney stared at him for a long moment, "I've never understood much of what you do."

"Well believe me inviting anyone to something like this would be the last thing on my mind. The last thing," He added emphatically. "More importantly you and me we're done. The last time you wandered into my life I got a night in the hospital and Alexis bringing me pills every four hours. I hate pills." He added crossly. "Stay away from me." He said hurrying away.

"I don't think that went well," Carly observed.

"It wouldn't," Bobbie added. "And speaking of not going well, I want to have some words with my ex-husband." Placing her flute of champagne on the table, Bobbie rose and crossed the room toward a figure skulking in the corner. "Hiding in the shadows?"

"Hello Barbara." Stefan said pronouncing the name with withering disdain.

"Nice show you've put on."

"And what do I owe to the displeasure of this encounter." Stefan questioned sounding bored and possessing little interest in her response.

Bobbie rolled her eyes, "Shouldn't I be asking that question." She challenged fixing him with a dubious expression. "I'm not quite as stupid as you may imagine. I know that Carly's and my invitations are not some random occurrence." She stopped to look up at him. His lips remained compressed, his jaw set. "I

recognize a Stefan Cassadine scheme is afoot. I just don't know what's banging around that evil mind of yours."

"Evil," Stefan repeated the word as if affronted. "Barbara I hardly have the energy let alone the interest in the type of machinations you imagine. " He paused taking a sip of what Bobbie took to be scotch. Watching the glass touch his lips, she remembered the slightly tangy flavor of Scotch that often accompanied his kisses. It was a disquieting memory and she quickly pushed it away. Once he put the glass down, Stefan continued seemingly unaware of her distracted state. "If you must know I invited you for Michael's sake." Again he let a moment pass seemingly waiting for her to interrupt. When she did not, he explained. "You are aware your grandson is staying at Wyndamere."

It was a statement, not a question and Bobbie responded as such. "I've told Carly I wouldn't allow my child to spend a single night in that gothic hellhole."

"As I remember you and Lucas were quite content."

Bobbie recognized his words as a carefully planned taunt. She could envision him in his study carefully rehearsing each conversation he'd have tonight. She was certain he'd memorized brief barbs, statements and pleasantries to be dished out throughout the evening. Stefan, she'd realized to late, was not a man of great imagination. He was a man, however, of great preparation. Natural occurrences such as conversations or chit chat were virtually impossible for him. He'd tried to flirt a few times in their marriage, it had came across like a language he could speak but never internalize. At the time she'd found it charming, now she felt the slightest twinge of pity. She quickly snuffed such feelings aside stating, "That was a long time ago."

Apparently disinterested in her banter, Stefan said, "I understand Lucas is coming home."

"Are you having us followed?" Bobbie asked feeling the inner Spencer paranoia kick into overdrive.

Stefan laughed seeming amused, "Honestly your ego." He shook his head. "It never fails to astound me how a Spencer eternally elevates his or her life to the highest plateau imaginable." He lifted his drink off the table holding it gently with two fingers. "Lucas called me last week and informed me he would be returning home."

"Why is my son calling you?"

Stefan stared at her for a moment before suggesting, "I presume because he wanted to talk."

Bobbie bit back the instinctive barb that leapt to mind and replied, "Next week."

"Excellent." He said. "I would like to contact him, invite him for lunch."

"I know Lucas respects you." Bobbie said in a measured tone. "I won't interfere with any relationship you have. However, if you try to use my son or my grandson for some scheme."

"I can assure you that my intentions regarding both boys are utterly above board."

Bobbie shook her head. "I don't remotely believe that." She quickly added, "I'd also like to see my grandson."

Stefan nodded, "Michael would enjoy a visit." Glancing over he saw Anna swaying gently in Frisco's arms.

Bobbie noticed his distraction, "Not another Cassadine fascination." She snapped. "Believe me you won't turn Anna into your nuLaura."

"I wouldn't dream of that. Anna is a unique individual."

Bobbie rolled her eyes, "Let me guess you've somehow inserted yourself in her life."

Stefan smiled casually saying, "Why Barbara I assumed you knew. Anna was my first wife."

Ruby had a saying, 'You could have knocked me over with a feather.' For the first time Bobbie understood the saying, staring at Stefan in slack jawed horror. She tried to recover, but failed to do so and instead simply walked away.

Lesley felt a tap on her shoulder. "May I cut in?"

"Frisco ?" She smiled and opened her arms.

Frisco gave her a hug. "You look more beautiful than I remembered."

"You always were a liar," Lesley said easily. "And I like that about you."

"I'll be at the table." Scotty said rolling his eyes at Jones' moves.

"Actually its you I need to speak to."

Lesley smiled, "Oh well then I guess I'll go to the table."

"Next dance Les?" Frisco asked flashing a grin at her.

"I'm holding you to it."

Frisco gestured for Scott to follow. "I thought we were going to dance," Scott said. "Or did you want us to find a dark corner, and kiss?"

"Baldwin you aren't nearly hot enough for me." Frisco taunted crossly.

Scott snorted dismissively. "With hair like that," He said pointing to Frisco's head, "You better really lower your standards. You best hope for recently released convicts and ladies suffering macular degeneration."

"You're as funny as I remembered."

"Thanks." Scott said taken off balanced.

"It wasn't a compliment." Frisco growled.

Scott shrugged saying, "I don't put take much stock in someone who once wore parachute pants."

"We can flirt later," Frisco said reaching for a cigar and then instantly remembering the smoking ban. Bastard New York legislature! "I need to have a word with you in private?"

"You do know I'm a married man." Scott said.

"Poor woman." Frisco replied adding, "Tomorrow say 5 o'clock."

"Tomorrow's no good." He said explaining, "My anniversary and according to my wife our children are planning a surprise party. Half the town is coming. Oh," He said as if the thought had just occurred to him. "Did you not make the list?"

"Actually I did." Frisco replied sounding more animated. "And I wouldn't miss the chance to meet the poor woman who's married to you. "

"We need a blender." Scott replied flatly. "I like smoothies in the morning."

Frisco eyed him for a long moment, "I'll pick up something at the dollar store on the way." Almost as an afterthought he added, " So we meet at say one o'clock the usual place."

"Should I wear something slinky and sexy?"

"Well Anna will be there and she does have strange taste so maybe you've got a shot." Frisco offered as a parting shot already walking in the direction of Scott and Lesley's table.

"Yeah she picked you!" Scott called after him while absently straightening his tie. "With the law enforcement in this town I really am going to have to buy a cape and fly around town myself." He said stalking off. "Edward." He called passing the table.

Shaking his head Edward said hopelessly, "Our DA makes my Cousin Vinny seem like a Rhodes Scholar."

Monica chuckled in spite of herself admonishing Edward," That movie came out over a decade ago you are dating yourself."

"I am dated. I am aging every single day and this family seems to be falling into absolute chaos." He pointed at the dance floor haphazardly. "Emily is the only one who has any sense whatsoever when it comes to proper escorts."

"You delivered a spiel on Nikolas not a hour ago." Monice noted letting her gaze wander over to Emily who was smiling at something Lucky said.

Edward watching the same movements smiled, "I wasn't talking about that European dandy. I meant Lucky."

"Lucky?" Monica pronounced the word as if confused by Edward's train of thought.

"Look at them," He urged gesturing toward the duo who were smiling and laughing. "Why don't they realize they are made for each other.

"What?" Monica said dismissing his suggestion by noting, "Emily is in love with Nikolas."

"Love." Edward said dismissively. "She loved that boy band singer, she loved Zander, now she loves Nikolas. I've been in love many times, so have you. Love has very little to do with marriage." He said glancing at Lucky and Emily, "Those two kids were born to be together." Almost as if agreeing with his statement Lucky and Emily laughed happily.

Lucky was twirling Emily when he saw Jason approaching. "Can I borrow my sister?" Jason asked in his typical flat tone.

Lucky gave Emily's hand a squeeze then walked over to the table. He leaned down and moments later Monica rose and followed Lucky to the dance floor. "Can we speak privately?" Jason requested quietly.

Emily nodded and followed his steps, as Jason guided her toward a darkened corner.

Emily nodded and gestured toward an unoccupied table where they could sit unobserved. "What's up?" All the years of Quartermaine breeding had never quite rid her of her Arizona casualness.

Jason fumbled with his hands for a moment toying with the table cloth. Finally he asked, "Did I ever tease you about a ghost?"

"Oh my God," Emily's face went scarlet and her tone became close to angry. "I don't even want to talk about that. For months I'd run from the stairs to my room. Cook feeding you and AJ those Exlax brownies didn't even begin to make up…" Her stream of consciousness narrative stopped abruptly as she said startled, "But that was before."

"Yeah," He said. "I know. See….I'm having a little problem." Emily watched him silently waiting for an explanation. "I've been having some dreams, or maybe they aren't dreams, some stuff that seems like memories."

Emily like all Quartermaines had mastered the art of holding a blank face. Nor was her opinion clear when she asked, "What kind of things do you think you remember?"

Jason rubbed his neck with the heel of his hand. "I'm not sure, it's a lot of little stuff."

"But you've never had these type of memories before?"

Sighing Jason shook his head. "I don't understand it Em."

"Have you spoken to a neurologist?" Being a child of two doctors, a lifelong hypochondriac as well as spending a ridiculous amount of time in hospitals and clinics she had a pretty firm grasp on the various specialties.

"Not yet. I'm not even sure I want to."

Emily leaned forward slightly, "Why not?" Again her tone betrayed no opinion on the matter.

"I dunno," He admitted. "I don't want to rock the boat." Looking up at her, "These memories even before I felt things, but since I've been having these…whatever they are… I feel more."

"What do you mean?"

"I've been…" He paused considering what word to use. ""Feeling things for Alexis."

"Really?" Emily asked giddily. Jason's wary expression caused her to calmly say, "Oh?"

"It doesn't make sense…"

"Love never makes any sense." Emily agreed. "If it did I would never have given that myopic wannabe rocker a second glance."

"It's not that exactly." Jason said uncertainly. "For years working for Sonny I was cold and whatever he said to do, I did. Right, wrong they were just words and it didn't have any meaning." He paused. "Dr. Jones used the word abstractions. Said I would never understand anything abstract. I think now I understand." He said in an unsettled tone.

Emily studied her brother with an anxious expression. "Jase I think you need to see someone."

"I'll think about it." He promised in such an off handed way Emily knew he'd never follow through.

"Don't think," She urged in an usually assertive fashion. "Do it."

This time Jason studied her seeing a resolution there that allowed for no doubts. Still, he remained silent unwilling to make any promises.

As if unsurprised by his actions, Emily rose and slowly walked across the room.

　

Throughout the evening Alexis had kept an eye on Courtney. Cassadines were multi-taskers by nature, so as she went through the ceremony, dinner and the post meal socializing she kept a watchful eye on Ms. Matthews. As such she was aware that while she'd been eyeing Courtney, Courtney's eyes had remained eternally focused on Jason. Courtney's feelings for Jason were not of great interest to Alexis. Her actions, however, were another matter. To display her ardor so openly would be tacky enough, but to do so at an event honoring his wife… Her mother would never have even considered such an action. Alexis had initially felt some pity for Courtney imagining the pain of the situation. However, as time passed her sympathy had begun to evaporate. Seeing Jason bandaged and wounded and Courtney again rushing in irregardless of the danger, coming to this event with the same lack of consideration for anyone save herself. Their talk at the hospital had been very Myrna Loy versus Jean Harlow, but it clearly had accomplished nothing. It was time for a more direct approach.

When Courtney exited the ballroom, presumably walking toward the restroom, Alexis excused herself from her conversation with guests and silently followed her. Bathroom etiquette was always a challenging area to map. So Alexis applied lipstick and checked her reflection until Courtney entered in the powder area.

"Alexis," Courtney said seemingly startled to see Alexis sitting in a chair applying her makeup.

"Courtney." Alexis replied in the iciest term she could muster before demanding, "Are we alone?"

Courtney glanced back before replying, "Yes," She tried to draw herself up and state formidably, " But we have nothing to discuss." Even to her own ears she wasn't certain she'd quite captured the necessary tone. The years in Vegas and recent times with Sonny and Jason had left her more skilled at quiet exits and worried hours, than actions signaling strength and determination. She spent hours and hours at the gym taking her frustrations out on weight bags, and then went home to play the silent, eternally supportive girlfriend who'd never make trouble or ask any questions.

"Oh I disagree," Alexis said, "I believe we have a great deal to discuss. " The coolness of her tone made the room feel suddenly chilled, like a bottle of wine iced and left in the bucket for hours. "I feel, no I know," She said correcting herself even as she spoke, "That we have some type of failure of communication. Perhaps that's my fault as well as my husband's." Courtney felt her insides flinch, pulling together at the word husband. "That's right my husband." Alexis repeated pointedly.

"For now," Courtney sputtered. She felt suddenly like Alice forever falling down a tunnel where life was not only not what she wanted, but more akin to her nightmares. At any moment she'd be summoned to tea with the Mad Hatter who'd probably look not unlike Stefan Cassadine in an oversized hat and bow tie.

Alexis shook her head, " This is one of the things we need to discuss. You clearly don't respect our marriage and really I cannot fault you for that. Jason and I obviously did not and do not have a typical relationship. Of course," She noted with a chuckle, "Jason and I are both far from typical so perhaps that's to be expected. Irregardless, we have a Cassadine marriage and that rather decides things."

"Didn't expect to see you here," Jason said dropping into the empty seat next to Carly. "I didn't know you attended New York Bar events."

Carly offered a vague half smile saying, "Didn't expect I'd ever see you at one of these events, ever."

Jason shrugged, "Have to go where the wife goes."

"Funny," Carly replied dismissively.

"Why are you here?"

"Have to take the party dress out of the closet every now and then."

Jason smiled, for all her faults Carly never failed to make him laugh. The tendency helped them maintain their friendship through dire times. "Sonny didn't want to tag along?"

Carly could not fail to observe the edge in Jason's tone when he said Sonny's name. "You really going to testify against him?"

"I don't have a choice."

"I don't believe that." Carly said. "And I take that for a yes."

"He crossed a line even you have to know that." Jason glanced around to see if anyone was observing their conversation. Seeing no one obviously doing so he continued, "Taking a whack at me at Kelly's, come on? We both know that was bound to draw attention."

"One word from you." Carly stated, "The whole thing could nice and disappear."

Jason crossed his arms, "You overestimate my interest in protecting Sonny."

"You two used to be like brothers."

"Well," Jason said flatly, "We know how quickly I can turn on a brother."

Carly's gaze narrowed, "Are you….are you talking about A.J.?" Not bothering to allow him to finish she added, "Why are you thinking about A.J.?"

"Have you seen Michael?" Jason asked not masking his desire to switch topics.

Feeling off balance Carly nevertheless answered, "No. I thought he might be here tonight. I thought," She elaborated, "That might explain our invitation. This being Stefan's show and all…"

A lazy grin spread across Jason's face. Whatever her flaws Carly never failed to cut through the BS and figure out the real reasons for anything. She must have worked out the rationale for their invitation fairly quickly. Still she wasn't skilled in Cassadine logic. "I thought the same at first. Then I remembered something Alexis said once. She said the Cassadines were all excellent bluffers." Seeing Carly looking back with an uncomprehending expression Jason explained, "I think Stefan wants to talk to you."

"Then why not call me or come by the penthouse."

Jason supposed he would have thought the same a year or so ago. "The Cassadines don't handle things that way." Leaning forward he added, "You approach him. Play it nice no threats, no demands." Meeting her eyes he emphasized, "Nice Carly nice." Carly brushed her bangs back sighing in a fashion Jason recognized. "I know you don't like this, but," He said resignedly, "Is how it is."

"Why can't I go and make him come home."

"You can," Jason said leaning back in the chair. "But we both know if he doesn't want to be there…" He let his sentence wither away confident she would infer his meaning.

"Will you come with me? We can team up?"

"Bad idea," Jason said decidedly. "Stefan wants me on one team."

"But Jason," She said wanting to protest.

Jason was already on his feet. "Nice to see you Carly." Jason called walking toward the bar. Carly watched him with a growing sense of uncertainty

"I have no idea what that is supposed to mean?" Courtney said uncomfortably. She kept watching the door waiting and almost desperately hoping for someone to enter the room and spare her from Alexis' dialogue. "What is a Cassadine marriage"

Alexis smiled remembering her own confusion with the Cassadine marriage concept. "Put simply a Cassadine marriage is a union based upon and dictated by a pre-martial contract. The Cassadine marriage contract involves but is not limited to matters such as where we will live, if/when I can work, under what conditions Jason can take a mistress." She watched with a certain pleasure as Courtney's eyes grew ever bigger and bigger. "Virtually every detail of our marriage is listed and or detailed in that contract."

"And you signed something like that?"

"No the contract is signed by the husband. My husband signed our contract." She let the comment lay for a moment, allowing the implications of such a document sink into Courtney's mind. "I wouldn't mention these things normally. However," she added, "I believe that contract has a bearing on your view of circumstances."

Courtney stared at Alexis with open hostility. "How so?"

"Well two ways. First off what is in the contract involving a mistress. Jason could only have a relationship with another woman after we had three children. Cassadines," She explained in a confiding fashion,"Don't believe an heir and one spare is enough. We like two spares. I believe it has something to do with the Russo-Japanese war. So," She said drawing the word out and prolonging Courtney's suspense, "Jason theoretically would not be free to take you for a harlot," Alexis saw Courtney's eyes grow even wider with her statement, "For a period of perhaps three years. However, as Jason and I feel we aren't ready to expand our family at present it might be six, seven. However, " She paused a moment. "It's important that you understand your role in whatever dynamic you might develop with Jason would be strictly illicit and frankly sleazy. For you see," She said honestly, "There is one thing no Cassadine legal document ever mentions or allows any possibility for and that a divorce. The moment Jason entered into that contract he bound our lives together until one of us dies. We will never divorce and frankly I don't think Jason is the kind of man who'd sleep around. My father," Alexis shook her head a bit sorrowfully, "He was a serial philander. My mother was unfortunately one of many women who came to his bed. Jason doesn't strike me as that type at all. "

"So because its not written on a piece of paper you and Jason can't get divorced."

Her words struck Alexis as a rather weak minded response to an insane contract and reality. Really she was beginning to wonder what Jason saw in such a simple, unintelligent girl. "That means Cassadines don't divorce." She stated simply and absent any emotionalism. "No if, ands or buts. Jason and I are married and we will stay married."

"It's a stupid mantra."

"No," Alexis said impatiently. "It's a fact. We don't get divorced. Sometimes we kill one another, inflict harm on one another, and ruin each other, but we stay married. "

"Bobbie was married to Stefan." Courtney boasted triumphantly as if she'd pulled a winning card from the deck.

"Stefan and Bobbie didn't have a Cassadine marriage. Jason and I do." Alexis explained coolly.

"You don't even have a real marriage."

Alexis arched one brow, "He married me, he lives with me, we have a life. Tonight who is he sitting with?"

Alexis laid each fact out like another piece of evidence in a murder trial where there was no doubt of the perpetrator.

"That's appearances its not real." Courtney said determinedly and Alexis recognized the rhetoric of one trying to convince themselves of something that they find only shakily true.

"Really?" She asked in a rhetorical fashion. "So when you were involved did you live with Jason?"

"Of course." Courtney replied seemingly blind sighted by the question and unaware of where Alexis was leading the discussion.

"You were engaged." Alexis did not wait for an answer. "I saw you at events together."

"We were a couple."

"Were yes," Alexis agreed. "Now he's married and living his life with me."

"It's not real." Courtney virtually spat.

"Isn't it?" Alexis challenged in a cagey fashion intended to leave the younger woman in doubt. Then smiling Alexis turned to leave the room.

"We aren't finished." Courtney insisted angrily.

Alexis eyed her for a moment then shook her head, "Oh but we are and you and my husband are very finished. Stay away from us or I'll pretend I'm my brother and you are the one who broke my toy." She warned coldly. As she exited the bathroom, with Courtney close behind, Alexis spotted Jason waiting in the hallway. Glancing around she calculated the mostly empty room allowed her to make a bold maneuver. "Better," her

father had once told her during a chess game where he believed she was moving out of fear rather than careful planning, "To fail mightily than to succeed poorly." The lesson had stayed with her and she'd won more than a few cases due to the advice. It seemed a good time, she decided, to test Mikkos' theory in the romance department. Flashing a mischievous grin at her husband, Alexis approached Jason wrapping her arms around his torso. Jason quickly reciprocated the gesture wrapping his arms around her lower waist. Leaning in she whispered, "Follow my lead?"

"Always," He promised in a whisper so low she had to strain to hear him.

His words made Alexis smile as she leaned in and captured his lips. Remembering her father's words she decided a tentative liplock would not do. No this had to be a full on passionate kiss, therefore she snaked her arms tighter around Jason's back molding her body against his. Following her lead Jason opened his mouth. It was an odd way to kiss one's husband for the first time, but perhaps strangely appropriate for their marriage Alexis decided.

Across the room Courtney blanched at the sight before her. Jason the man who barely held her hand in public was hungrily kissing Alexis. She'd seen the look far to seldom in their relationship, this was a hungry, feral Jason. Her fantasies of some chaste, friendly Morgan-Davis marriage were fleeting before the image of pure animalism and overt desire. Jason wasn't just with Alexis, he wanted Alexis it was plain as concrete on the Vegas strip. Courtney ran toward the door shielding her eyes.

Across the room Alexis and Jason slowly pulled apart. Neither spoke for a long moment, as they stared deeply at one another. "I think that went well." Alexis finally said still feeling shaky..

Adopting her tone, Jason replied, "Very well."

Despite the casualness of her words, Alexis felt ridiculously off center like somehow that kiss had drawn a line dividing everything before their lips touched and everything after. It was a dangerous, emotional cocktail and she worried it would render her incapable of civility. If Carly or Stefan said something she thought she might lose any semblance of civility. Stefan had once declared that all Cassadines were prisoners to any type of emotional gratification, her history more than proved the truth of his statement. She didn't want to further test it tonight. Realizing she had her purse, and convinced they'd surely mail that plaque to her she reached for her husband's hand, yes even in her mind she was starting to consider him her husband, saying, "Do you want to stay?"

Squeezing her hand Jason grinned urging, "Let's get out of here."

Turning around Edward scanned the thinning crowd. "Where are Emily and Skye?"

"They sometime ago." Monica said looking around. "Where's Jason?"

"I saw him…a little while ago." Edward responded irritably. "Why are we still here?"

Monica shrugged looking at the empty dais, "I was hoping maybe Jason…"

Edward fumbled with a piece of silverware. "Monica," He paused contemplating how to coach his words. Then decisively he stood saying, "Let's go home."

Monica nodded and rising followed him across the room.

Carly watched the Quartermaines cross across her line of vision. When neither saw fit to speak to her she shouted loudly, ""Yeah real nice to see you too!" Much to her annoyance neither Edward or Monica showed any sign of hearing her, much less responding to her words. This was equally vexing and predictable, she'd never quite figured out the knack to truly annoying the Quartermaines despite her best efforts. They saw her as a piece of trailer trash and treated her accordingly. She figured Stefan would be about the same, still she tried to keep Jason's words in mind as she waited to approach him.

When she saw Stefan placing his drink down and walking toward the exit, she stood and hurriedly followed him. Seeing him walking into the coatroom, she hurried alongside him. "Mrs. Corinthos," He announced without looking up.

"I need to talk to you."

"Are we not talking at present?" Stefan asked seemingly confused by her words.

"Privately."

Stefan looked around the darkened room, "Will the coats overhear our conversation?"

Carly bit back the sarcastic reply she thought the commented merited only saying, "I'd like to discuss my son."

"Proceed," Stefan suggested coolly.

"Everything in me says I should go get my son and bring him home. I know that's my right as his mother, and the thing that feels most right to me." She explained. "But I know that won't work that for some reason Michael feels safe and happy with you and the others on that island." She looked away and Stefan remained silent allowing her time to compose herself. "All I'm saying is I will be visiting my son regular, and if I find out you are doing anything to him all the Russian guards and gargoyles in the world won't be nearly enough to protect you. You got that?"

"Consider me suitably warned." Stefan replied nonplused by her remarks. Reasonably certain she'd been one upped but unclear exactly how Carly scowled at Stefan then stomped away.

"I see you still have a way with the ladies." Anna observed tartly. She had literally crossed paths entering the coat room as Carly exited.

"Good evening Amphitrite," Stefan said.

Anna's expression twisted as she demanded, "Don't call me that."

"You never objected to that endearment before."

"Before being the operative term," Anna agreed coldly. "Before I knew the price that name implied."

"Oh yes," Stefan agreed feeling suddenly tired. "I forget my long, long list of sins and misdeeds."

Ann laughed, "You really are the most myopic human being I've ever had the opportunity to meet. You confess to crimes and misdeeds all the while believing that you are the real victim. The cold, cruel world versus poor, poor Stefan Cassadine."

"I am well aware of your feelings for me." Stefan pronounced stiffly.

Anna shook her head, "I don't think so. If you were things would be different."

"What does that mean?"

"Figure it out." Anna suggested lifting her coat off the rack and walking away.

　

"What do you think Stefan is up to?" Skye questioned as she and Jax walked through the Quartermaine gardens Despite herself she'd allowed him to drive her home. When they'd arrived he'd suggested a walk in the garden and again in spite of her protestations, he'd somehow convinced her. Whatever ugliness lay between them, she'd missed Jax's companionship and friendship. He seemed to understand her like no one else had, for as they walked he'd kept silent allowing her the solace of her thoughts until she chose to speak. She had a feeling if they'd walked all night silently through the gardens, he'd have been fine with that.

Jax shrugged, shoving his hands deep in his pockets. "Knowing him whatever he's up to will remain up his sleeve till he's ready to unleash it."

"That does not reassure me." Skye said. "I know he and Nikolas have some plan but…"

"You can't tell me."

"I don't know anything to tell." Skye retorted sounding frustrated. She turned walking toward the pool.

Jax smiled wistfully, "Now you want to think it over."

"What makes you think that?"

Gesturing toward the pool, Jax said, "You always look at water when you're worried. Every time you had a business decision troubling you, I'd find you sitting on the deck staring at the water."

Unsure how to respond Skye said dismissively, "That was a long time ago."

"Yes" He agreed soberly turning to look at the pool, "It was. But hey," He offered supportively. "At least we'll be working together again."

"Your plans with Stefan?"

He nodded adding, "You are a crucial part of those plans."

Skye regarded him with a disbelieving stare before shaking her head, "I hardly believe that."

"I've talked to Stefan." Jax said directly. "I've informed him that you are to make all decisions regarding Jacks Shipping involvement in the docks revitalization program."

Skye arched a single eyebrow. "That was pretty risky. Particularly since I don't work for you, and our divorce was so awful that it might make me smile to drive you into bankruptcy."

Smiling Jax replied confidently, "We both know you are too professional for that."

"Do we now?"

Leaning forward Jax said, "I need you." He said, "With my WSB work I haven't had the time to oversee things. And Jacks Shipping is an integral part of Stefan's plans for the waterfront. I need someone I can trust in that project, protecting my interests."

"And I'm it?" Skye asked uncertainly.

"Of course you're it." He stated leaving no room for opposition. "You are one of the smartest business heads I know, plus you understand my holdings, and I can trust you to protect my interests. I need your help."

Skye said nothing clearly weighing her options. "You know I will demand an exorbitant amount of money."

"I'd expect nothing less." Jax agreed with a gentle chuckle. "So," He said extending his hand, "Is it a deal?"

Skye looked at his hand, "On one condition."

"Name it."

"I'll support you so far, but if I think you are going to far, or risking your life then I'm done. I don't need the money and I won't have you taking unnecessary risks." As if wanting to justify such caution she said, "I want us to be bickering for a long, long time."

"Agreed," He said as their hands met. "And don't worry I'm not going to take any unnecessary risks."

Sighing Skye said, "I'd sleep better if I could remotely believe that."

Jax started to respond, but then seemingly thought better of it and they simply stood together in shared silence contemplating the pool.

　

"Lucky!" Emily said trailing him into the house protesting, "We're not going to do this! We're too old."

Lucky looked up from the bookcase where he was flipping through some albums. "A Spencer man is never to old for this. And I know you Quartermaines have energy to spare. And don't even talk about age. We're going to be doing this when we're 90."

"By the time I'm 90 I'll be to societal and refined to do this." Emily said drawing herself up with a certain primness.

"Then I'll drag my Spencer self over to Spoon Island crank up the stereo and say off your ass and on your feet Bowen Quartermaine Spencer."

Emily grimaced, "Do you think Stefan could stand that. I think he'd croak if anyone played anything recorded after the 19^th century."

"More reason to play it loud. Ah ha!" He said lifting an album and going over to the turn table.

"I can't believe you still use those." Emily said. "Even my grandmother has an Ipod."

Lucky grinned as he dropped the needle onto the appropriate groove. "No respectable Spencer would ever be without a functional turn table. Apparently your family agrees."

"My family also has chamber pots upstairs for decoration, doesn't mean we use them."

Lucky began to sway as the lyrics spilled out of the speakers.

Girl, To Be With You Is My Fav'rite Thing
Uh Huh
And I Can't Wait Til I See You Again
Yeah, Yeah
I Want To Put On My My My My My
Boogie Shoes

"Really?" Emily said looking vaguely horrified.

"Come on," Lucky said extending his arms out toward her. "You know you want to?"

"KC and the Sunshine band is going to make me want to?"

"Yeah." Lucky said grabbing her by the waste. "Come on Bowen put on your, your, your boogie shoes." He said singing along with the record.

Despite herself Emily began swaying along with Lucky.

Just To Boogie With You, Yeah
I Want To Put On My My My My My
Boogie Shoes Just To Boogie With You,Uh Huh
I Want To Do It 'til The Sun Comes Up
Uh Huh, And I Want To Do It 'til

"Until the break of dawn Em, until the break of dawn." Lucky vowed happily.

"So where are you going to put the plaque?" Jason asked absently as they entered the foyer. He nodded to the guard on the door who quickly stepped outside. Since his brain bounce at Kelly's Nikolas had added even more security to the house. The previous day when he and Alexis had taken Kristina to Kelly's for a bowl of ice cream, half the patrons looked disappointed when they walked in the place. Penny told them later with all the security they thought someone famous was coming for a bowl of chili.

"I had a location in Stefan's body all picked out," Alexis replied casually. "But according to Dr. Drake its not anatomically possible to put it there." Smiling she added, "But I'd really like to try. And I do mean I'd really, really like to try."

"We have to talk about what happened?"

Alexis turned around. "You want to talk? This is new."

"We have to talk about…"

"I don't think I like the sound of that," Alexis said hurriedly. "Not to mention I'm exhausted," Alexis said busily, determinedly cutting Jason off . "And I've got to take Kristina to playgroup in the morning. So I'm going to go right upstairs."

Turning Jason put his hands near Alexis' elbows stilling her. "What's wrong

"Nothing, nothing." Alexis replied a bit to hastily to come across as natural. Seeing Jason eyeing her doubtfully she added, "I'm tired. It was a very long, complicated night and I just want to climb into bed and forget it." She blanched as soon as the word bed escaped her mouth.

Jason offered a half smile at her state before admitting ,"I liked kissing you."

"What?" She said behaving totally affronted.

"I liked kissing you." He repeated.

Alexis' facial expression was one of stunned surprised. "Well huh I'm not sure."

Sliding his hands down to her waist, Jason pulled her body to his. "Don't talk." He said lowering his head to hers. "Follow my lead." He said pressing his lips against hers.

When they broke apart Jason ran his hand across her back. "I know you aren't ready yet, I know you analyze your feelings to death, and we've got years and years so I'll wait, but when you're ready I'm ready." Seeing that she was about to respond and probably deny anything that happened Jason simply turned saying, "Goodnight." In seconds he heard Alexis' steps on the stairs.

Smiling Jason stepped into the library. As he did so a voice sing-sang. "Jason and Alexis sitting in the tree. K-i-ss-ing" Brenda closed her song with a hearty laugh and beamed saying, "Honey I'm home!"

After the noise and social distractions of the evening Stefan was pleased to return to the solitude of Spoon Island. The house was mercifully silent ,a condition Stefan had come to welcome. After changing into pajamas, he pulled on a dressing gown and walked downstairs. Despite the familys' fondness for the past he'd made a few concessions to modernity, so he slid a CD of Wagner's Der fliegende Holländer. The soaring notes filled the room as he poured himself a brandy. Toting the drink to his chair he thought it was fortunate Nikolas was away on business. Wagner seemed to depress him or infuriate him, Stefan was never sure which emotion the music aroused. It was he believed tragic that Nikolas had not inherited any of his passion for opera or classical music.

Not that the women he'd loved had much interest in the music either. Laura feigned interest, but he could tell the music bored her. Barbara had never had the slightest

Appreciation for his music collection. Dismally he realized when Barbara and Lucas returned to Spoon Island, he'd have to endure a steady diet of rock and roll, rap and whatever other monstrosities were passing for modern music. Of course that would not occur for some time. Before that the Amphitrite situation still rested heavily on his mind. Watching her tonight was akin to seeing a single, perfect, white orchid amidst a field of wildflowers. Her beauty and poise wounded him as always.

He'd of course realized her beauty the instant the sailors pulled her from the sea. Still, when she was absent, as she too often was, from his sight at her return her beauty always pained him anew.

Years ago he had been away on business, an errand he now questioned- how could he have been parted from her for even a day. He'd returned full of ardor and longing clutching a bouquet of roses. However, any expectation of a romantic reunion was vanquished by the tear stained woman he saw standing on the balcony staring out at the blue green ocean.

"Amphitrite?" He called softly.

She'd turned and hurriedly, embarrassedly wiped her eyes. "Stefan I didn't expect you until tomorrow."

He dropped the roses on the table and walked to her. "I concluded my business early to return to you."

"I'm glad." Anna replied forcing a smile, even then he'd recognized it was forced. She leaned forward and kissed him trying, he knew, to hide her pain.

"You don't seem happy." He said holding her to him.

"Oh," She said trying to brush off his concerns. "It's nothing."

He leaned down and kissed her forehead, "I wish you would tell me what's wrong. You know," He said kindly, "I will do anything to make you happy."

"I know," She said smiling this time seemingly unforced. "It's only that I was here alone and without you I began thinking about things I need to forget." She rested her head against his chest. "Help me forget Stefan. Please help me forget." She was almost pleading and he could never refuse her anything. So he lifted her into his arms and carried her to the bed and spent hours trying to help her, soothe her, show her every kind of love he had or could even imagine.

Still later on laying with her beneath the sheets, he recognized that she remained emotionally torn. "What are you thinking about?" He asked skimming his fingers across her bare skin.

"You." She said and he chuckled softly indicating a sense of disbelief. "Really I am." She promised reassuringly. "No one is as good to me. I'm not sure anyone else has ever been as good to me as you are." She said quietly. "It's strange really I don't know anything about my past, but I'm almost certain no one has ever loved me as you do."

"Yet," He said prompting her to complete her thought."Yet," She said nestling against his chest running her fingers from his shoulder blades to his lower back, "I can't stop wondering about who I was before, what sort of life I had before you found me."

"Why ask such questions?" Stefan questioned lowering the sheet so he could see her alblaster skin contrasted with his bronzed tone. "You are happy here, no?"

"Very happy," She promised kissing the area just beneath his medallion. She'd then proceed to show him and at the time he'd thought her happy. Later he would realize her power to pretend sometimes even dwarfed his own.

Stefan snapped to as the music hit a crescendo and then shifted to a shrill ringing sound. Lost in his thoughts Stefan did not recognize his cell phone's distinctive ring. At the third ring, however, he was suitably removed from his memories recognizing the tone of his cell phone. Reaching into the pocket of his dressing gown, he retrieved the device. Pressing a button he said, "Stefan Cassadine."

"Thank you for inviting Courtney," Alexis said ignoring pleasantries and shifting directly to her point.

Whenever she behaved as such, his memories drifted back to his elder brother. Like Stavros, Alexis seemed virtually allergic to social norms. It was a trait all Cassadines shared, none were ever remotely at ease in social situations. "Of course." Stefan replied. "Did you find your conversation productive?"

Alexis paused before offering, "I believe its to early to say."

"I suppose we'll wait and see then," Stefan replied using one of Nik and Emily's phrases.

"I suppose we will." She agreed and terminated the call.