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Post by JRK Archiver on Feb 13, 2008 13:45:50 GMT -5
An homage to couples on GH that I like, love and admire.
Jason and Robin, Lucky and Elizabeth and Jason and Elizabeth.
Various other pairings interspersed throughout.
Jasmine and the Wet Nymph is back as well as a few other characters that I created.
There is no dead Ted, Courtney & AJ, baby Michael, brainwashing, Dark Nik/Evil Cassadine, Blackmail, Accident storylines in this. Or any of the other stupid storylines that I hate.
Backstory--Elizabeth and the other teens have been aged a bit. Lucky (JJ) died in the fire and did not return - (though that may change). They were engaged and she found out that she was pregnant when he died. She had planned to surprise him but didn't get the chance to tell him. 6 months after Lucky died Elizabeth gave birth to Liberty Lauren Spencer Webber.
Jason and Elizabeth haven't met yet but they have several people in common such as Johnny and Jasmine O'Brien and Emily Bowen Quartermaine. As well as the Spencers.
Everything else will be explained.
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Post by JRK Archiver on Feb 13, 2008 13:47:11 GMT -5
Chapter One
-Wet Nymph Club-
Elizabeth sat at the bar sipping her drink and talking to the bartender, who just happened to be the owner and one of her best friends.
“So is Luke still grumbling about you singing here instead of there.” Jasmine laughs.
“He may have mentioned something like that when he and Lulu came to pick up Liberty.”
“Ready?” Jasmine asked nodding towards the stage.
“I guess now is as good a time as any.” Elizabeth joked as she twisted on her stool at the bar and eyed the crowd. “Yes.” She says firmly with a smile.
Jasmine nods and picks up the phone and pressed the number that was the direct line to the DJ booth. “You can announce Elizabeth now Jack.” She hung up and looked at her friend with a smile, “Okay.” She nods.
Elizabeth nods and gets off the stool, unconsciously smoothing down her black sequined top and black pants. She made her way effortlessly up to the stage as Jack made the announcement. “Ladies and gentleman. We at the Wet Nymph is proud to present as a now regular attraction.” He says with a pause, “Miss Elizabeth Webber.”
The crowd applauds and Elizabeth steps onto the stage, “Thank you.” She says and turns to the band with a nod.
The music comes up slowly and her voice is silky and smooth. She takes a deep breath, takes the microphone in her hand, closes her eyes and sings.
Yeah,yeah,yeah,yeah,yeah
Dear Lord can you take it away? (Oooh)
Elizabeth opens her eyes and looks around the crowd who is slowly moving to the music.
This pain in my heart that just follows me by day
And at night stalks me like the shawdows on my wall (Mmmmm)
Oh my goodness
She allows the music and rhythm of the beat to wash over her and she starts to move and get into the song.
It feels like the world is closin' on me
It feels like my dreams will never come to me
I keep on slippin' deeper into myself
And I'm scared, so scared
If your troubled, you just gotta let it go
If your worried baby, you just gotta let it go
All your hustlin' scene for nothing, you just gotta take it slow
When you need me baby, all you do is let me knoooooow
Why does it feel that my mind is constantly trying to pull me down
I can't seem to get away
Contious mistakes I know I'm able for
How long will I feel so out of place
She vaguely notices Jasmine by the bar dancing and smiling at Johnny and some other guy who had the body of a Greek Adonis. An inexplicable shiver of anticipation runs up her spine as she begins the next verse. She sighs as she sings when he turns to look at her and she notices his electric blue eyes.
If your troubled, you just gotta let it go
If your worried baby, you just gotta let it go
All your hustlin' scene for nothing, you just gotta take it slow
When you need me baby, all you do is let me knoooooow
If your troubled, you just gotta let it go
If your worried baby, you just gotta let it go
All your hustlin' scene for nothing, you just gotta take it slow
When you need me baby, all you do is let me knoooooow
If your troubled, you just gotta let it go
If your worried baby, you just gotta let it go
All your hustlin' scene for nothing, you just gotta take it slow
When you need me baby, all you do is let me knoooooow
If your troubled, you just gotta let it go
And if your worried baby, you just gotta let it go
All your hustlin' scene for nothing, you just gotta take it slow
When you need me baby, all you do is let me knoooooow
Oooohhh.
And I will run to you.
Yoooouuu..
You don’t have to worry.
Baby
The crowd erupts into applause. “Thank you.” She says giving a small nod to the band who begin to play the intro for the next song as she starts to sings the next song.
Yeah, yeah, yeah.
Yeah, yeah, yeah.
Yeah, yeah, yeah.
Yeah, yeah, yeah.
(Woo ahh)
Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah.
Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah.
(By ya dah)
(Woo ahh)
Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah.
Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah.
(Uh)
Sexy thing,
I can do anything, cuz constantly,
(Constantly)
I'm think of how to get you next to me.
(Next to me)
Maybe it's their playing your mentality.
(Ohh)
Ooh...
Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah.
(By ya dah)
Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah.
(Mmm I can't explain)
Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah.
(Why I feel this way)
Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah.
(I don't know, loving you)
She twists, turns, and moves around the stage. She looks up and sings directly to the Greek Adonis who is now sitting casually sipping on a beer and watching her.
Sexy thing, (yeah, yeah)
You can't hide the feelings that are deep inside.
(Deep inside)
I can see it pouring through them pretty eyes.
(Pretty eyes)
He smiles slightly at her and she shimmies and turns away with a slight smile of her own.
How much longer can you hide it, this disguise.
(Not much)
Ooh...
You givin' this feelin',
(this feelin')
You're gonna be yearnin',
(gonna be yearnin')
I hope you know I'm what you need.
(I'm what you need. I'm what you need)
Just lemme tell ya,
(Lemme tell ya)
There's no one for ya.
(Uh uh)
There's no one for ya but me.
(No, no...)
No, no
Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah.
(Make me sing)
Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah.
(By ya dah, mmm I can't explain)
Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah.
(Oh, why I feel this way)
Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah.
(When I'm loving you)
If ya want to go please say why,
(Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah)
You can walk away from here.
(Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah)
(I got this feelin' baby)
If ya want to go please say why,
(Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah)
(We can go)
You can walk away from here.
(Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah)
What, what, what.
By ye yah dah dah, by ye yah dah dah.
By ye yah dah dah, by ye yah dah dah.
Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah.
(Too high, too high)
(Yes I am)
Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah.
(Too high, too high)
(Hey hey)
Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah.
(Too high, too high)
(Yes I am)
Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah.
(Cuz you make me wanna sing)
Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah.
(Baby va dee yah dah dah)
(Make me wanna sing)
Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah.
(Somethin' like, somethin' like)
By ye yah dah dah, by ye yah dah dah.
(Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah)
(Somethin' like, somethin' like)
By ye yah dah dah, by ye yah dah dah.
(Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah)
Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah.
(Let it ride, let it ride)
Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah.
(Let it ride, let it ride)
Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah.
(Hit, hit me off again)
Dah dee dah, dah dah dah dee dah...
Again the crowd erupts into thunderous applauses as she finishes singing. “Thank you.” She says with a slight curtsy.
Jack’s voice comes over the pa again, “Let’s give another round of applause for the fabulous Miss Elizabeth Webber.” The crowd gives her another round of applause and Elizabeth smiles and nods while taking a sip from the bottle of water that Jasmine had handed her.
“See I told you you’d do great.” Johnny said with a laugh.
“Yeah yeah.” She says giving him a hug.
“Elizabeth let me introduce you to a good friend of mine. Jason.” Johnny says motioning towards Jason who had set his beer down on the bar and had been silently watching the exchange.
“Jason.” She says looking him over, “Hmm.” She smiles, “I think I prefer pretty eyes.”
Jason smiles that half-smirk, half-smile as he looks her over, again and nods, “You were good.” He says extending his hand.
“Thank you pretty eyes.” Elizabeth says with a slight intake of breath at the spark that shoots through her when their hands meet.
He nods and pulls his hand back, wondering as she was about the spark that he had felt.
One thought ran through their minds simultaneously, “What the hell was that?”
Song Credits: Alicia Keys; Troubles and Dah Dee Dah (Sexy Thing)
~*~
Glad everyone is liking it so far.
Thanks for the replies. You sparked some great ideas for the story.
Please reply and let me know what you think.
Enjoy.
-danie-
Chapter 2
~Wet Nymph~
Jason and Elizabeth were brought out of their thoughts by a male voice.
"You were good Darling."
Elizabeth turned to the man that the voice belonged to and smiled. She went freely into his open arms. "Thanks." she says giving him a hug. Then she pulled back suddenly, worried and concerned, "Is Liberty okay Luke? Is something wrong with my baby?" she asks already reaching for the purse that Jasmine had been handing to her.
"No." Luke smiles, "Babygirl is perfect. She's at home with Laura and Lulu." he smiles again at the thought of his granddaughter.
Elizabeth sighed in relief.
"So just came to check out the competition?" Johnny says with a laugh as he shakes Luke's hand.
"Just supporting our girl here." Luke says and then he sees Jason, "Didn't expect to see you in these parts again so soon Morgan?"
"It was time." Jason says quietly. There is a touch of sadness in his voice that Elizabeth recognizes and she frowns slightly.
"I guess so." Luke nods in understanding. Though he wasn't happy about Jason and Robin getting together at first, even he had seen how much Jason loved Robin and how her death had been hard on him. Even though they knew it was coming, it had been unexpected all the same. Luke sighs and nods at Jasmine who gives him a beer, "Ready to sell this joint so I can turn it into what a club is supposed to be?" Luke says to her.
Elizabeth watches the exchange with interest. Taking note of the look on pretty eyes face; though his expression was blank, his eyes bore a sadness and a pain that she recognized all to well. The pain of a love lost. Jason turned and they locked eyes, recognition acknowledged.
Jasmine shakes her head and looks over at her husband, "Honey did hell freeze over while I wasn't looking?" she says with a smirk.
He looks at her with a smile and twinkling eyes, "Not that I know of Jaz."
"Sorry Luke." Jasmine says turning back to him with a smirk. "Hell hasn't frozen over and you know that that's the only way that you'll get this club from me."
"Not even in a friendly little poker game." Luke suggests.
"As long as I can give Jason my proxy." Jasmine says with a smile at Luke's cringe. Nobody lost to Jason, it was that no bluff, inability to lie poker face thing he always had going.
Jason shook his head with a soft chuckle after taking a short drink of his beer, it was good to be back with his friends.
"So Luke why are you really here?" Elizabeth says taking another drink of her water.
"You know me to well Elizabeth." Luke says shaking his head and Elizabeth crosses her arms and waits, saying nothing. "I just wanted to make sure you were okay."
"Okay." Elizabeth nods. She had figured that Luke would do this. He was always stopping by the house or the studio to check on her. Always just happened to be in the neighborhood darling. She chuckles softly, Luke Spencer was transparent, she knew part of the reason that he "stopped by" was Liberty and Lucky. Being with Liberty made him feel closer to Lucky, her too. "And?"
"I was hoping that I could convince you to sing a song for me."
"Always." Elizabeth says. Already knowing what song that he wanted to hear. It was the same song that Lucky had always song to her and had sung to her the night that he had proposed.
Luke nods.
Elizabeth raises on her tiptoes and gives him a soft kiss on the cheek. "Anything for you dad." she says softly.
~*~
"Hi everyone." Elizabeth says once she was back on stage. "A very close friend asked me to sing something for him." she smiles softly at Luke. "I couldn't refuse so if you would just indulge me for a moment."
The crowd gives a light smattering of applause for support and encouragement. "Thank you." she says softly going to sit at the piano.
Elizabeth closes her eyes and whispers, "For Lucky."
Luke smiles and moves to take a seat at the bar. He nods at her.
Elizabeth takes a deep breath and begins to play.
I guess we guess are way through life.
How many times do we really know for sure?
I was just hoping for the best.
Then I woke up in these lovin' arms of yours.
What I felt was unmistakable.
When I fell for you.
Chorus:
It was real...It was magic.
It was calm...It was savage.
It was cool as a breeze.
It was warm to the touch.
It was never enough.
It was always too much.
It did all the things love does.
That's how I knew.
It was.
Who thought that I could laugh so loud.
Then turn around and cry so many tears.
I used to have so many doubts.
But one by one you made them disappear.
What I found was unbelievable.
But I believe it's true.
It was real...It was magic.
It was calm...It was savage.
It was cool as a breeze.
It was warm to the touch.
It was never enough.
It was always too much.
It did all the things love does.
That's how I knew.
It was.
You asked what I felt when you walked through the door.
Was it fear?
Was it clear?
It was all that and more.
It was real...It was magic.
It was calm...It was savage.
It was cool as a breeze.
It was warm to the touch.
It was never enough.
It was always too much.
It did all the things love does.
That's how I knew.
It was.
That's how I kneewwwwww.
It was.
It was.
Mmmm Hmmm.
It waasssss.
Oooh hoo.
It was.
Chely Wright; It was
Elizabeth looks up and sees the electric blue eyes of Jason Morgan staring back at her and again sees the recognition in his eyes. She nods at him and says, "Thank you again for the little indulgence."
She gets off the stage to a big round of applause. Luke hugs her again and Jasmine, Johnny and Jason tell her how good she was.
"Need a ride home?" Luke offers.
Elizabeth looks at the time, "No I brought my car. I'll follow you?" she offers.
"Okay."
"Thanks Jazzy." Elizabeth says going around the bar and hugging her friend. "I'll call you tomorrow."
"Of course." Jasmine laughs.
Elizabeth hugs Johnny and then stops in front of Jason, "See you later pretty eyes." she says with a smile before following Luke out to the parking lot.
Jasmine and Johnny look at each other and then at Jason who was still staring at the door. Confused by the nights events. It was Johnny's voice that brought him out of his thoughts.
"What did you think of Elizabeth Jase?" Johnny asks.
"She's good." Jason shrugs taking another sip of the now lukewarm beer.
Jasmine and Johnny O'Brien exchanged looks. They saw the sparks or whatever it was between the two. Jason had been right, it was time. Time for both of them to get back into life and live. They knew it wouldn't be easy on either one of them, but they also figured that they both could help the other person deal with things and move on.
~*~
Elizabeth collected her daughter from her grandparents and declined their offer, yet again, to stay with them. She settles Liberty into bed and gets up to leave the room when the sleeping girl wakes slightly.
"Mama." the sleepy little two and a half year old says.
"I'm here babygirl." Elizabeth says sitting back down on the bed. "Go back to sleep baby. Mama's here." she says softly stroking the little girls blond curls.
"Sing." Liberty says or at least that's what Elizabeth think she said.
"Okay Liberty. One song and then back to bed." the little girl nods sleepily as Elizabeth gathers her daughter in her arms again and moves to the rocking chair by the window and looks out into the night at the stars.
She hums softly as she rocks and then sings in a soft, sweet voice.
I have been so far away
Counting the times until today
So long I have wanted a chance
When I could spend some time with you
Just with you
You are growing so very fast
And I know I'm always the very last
To help you with a problem
To kiss your hurt if you should happen to fall down
Fall down
But when I'm gone
I need you here to carry on
My [precious little one], I know you will be strong
Like a burning flame, you're my claim
That's why you've got my name
And just to show
Come what may I love you so
And there will come a day
When all that's mine is yours
To take good care of you and yours, I swear
And this is my prayer
Oh Lord, this is my prayer
Elizabeth smiles down at the sleeping girl and then settles her back into the bed once again. She gets up and goes to the window, looking out at the stars again. "Watch over her Lucky." she whispers before going to her room.
In the corner of the room, we see an apparition surrounding by a soft glow of a golden and white light. "I will Elizabeth." Lucky says his voice gentle and light. "And you too."
[A/N: Brian McKnight wrote this song for his son originally. I had to change one of the lines. It reads originally: My son, I know you will be strong instead of: My [precious little one], I know you will be strong. So I am taking a small creative license with the song because Elizabeth has a daughter.]
Brian McKnight; My Prayer
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Post by JRK Archiver on Feb 13, 2008 13:47:35 GMT -5
Chapter 3
~Park~
Elizabeth and Jasmine are sitting on one of the benches watching Liberty play in the children's playground.
"Okay Liz I'm just going to say this." Jasmine says.
"Heaven forbid that you beat around the bush." Elizabeth laughs at her friend. Jasmine was not exactly what you'd call subtle.
"True." Jasmine nods, "Anyway. What was up with you last night?"
"What do you mean?" Elizabeth says with a slight frown turning slightly to see Jasmine's face better while still keeping an everpresent eye on Liberty.
"Pretty eyes?" Jasmine says with a smile, then she gets serious "You were flirting with Jason."
"Well he does have pretty eyes." Elizabeth says defensively, "And you'd notice to if you weren't so in love with your husband."
"I'm not saying he's not hot or doesn't have gorgeous eyes." Jasmine admits, "I'm married not dead Liz." she smiles, "It just surprised me. You're usually so shy and quiet around new people. Especially new guys."
"I don't know." Elizabeth sighs, "I wish I could explain it but I can't." She looks over at Liberty playing and smiles, "I just felt comfortable with him. I haven't felt like that around a guy since Lucky. None of the fix-ups you set me up on, nothing. It was like we connected."
Jasmine nods. She could understand that. They both had lost people that they had loved, probably still loved and were commited too. "I wonder what Em's going to say when she finds out?" Jasmine says wondering.
"Why would Emily care about pretty eyes? I mean Jason." Elizabeth asks slightly confused.
"Jason aka pretty eyes is Em's brother Jason. The one she's always talking about."
"Pretty eyes. I mean Jason is Em's Jason." Elizabeth says surprised. "I guess I didn't make the connection because Johnny just introduced him as Jason not Jason Morgan. You know how many Jason's there are out there?" Elizabeth shrugs.
"Probably about a million." Jasmine muses.
"But why would Emily care? It's not like I'm going to be dating him. I just met the man Jas. He's not a dog or a toad by any means I agree." Elizabeth says, "But we haven't even had a whole conversation."
"Conversation or not Liz," Jasmine tells her, "I saw sparks. And I know if I saw it then so will Em." she pauses wondering how much to tell Liz, "Em is very protective of Jason recently, which I think is one of the reason's he left. Not to get away from Emily but to get away from everything."
"The dreams and voices in your head." Elizabeth says quietly.
"Exactly." Jasmine says.
"Well Em has nothing to worry about. We barely spoke so I think she'll be cool." Elizabeth says smiling at Liberty who came over to her. "You okay babygirl?" she asks.
Liberty nods.
"Tired?" Elizabeth prompts.
Liberty shakes her head.
Jasmine grabs Liberty and begins to tickle her. "I know what you want." she laughs with the little girl. "Some ice cream." she says with a smile standing up, she takes Liberty's hand and head for the ice cream stand.
Elizabeth gets up and follows the two of them, shaking her head at Liberty. She had a feeling she would be left with a very hyped up on sugar and cranky Liberty that night. "I should let her stay with her and Johnny tonight." she says with a soft laugh as the image of the couple trying to calm down Liberty to get her to sleep came into her mind.
"Wait for me." she calls running slightly to catch up with them as she realizes that she has fallen behind.
~*~
~Port Charles Cemetary~
Jason Morgan sighed and ran his hand over the letters on the headstone before he sat on the bench facing his wife's grave. He smiled at the baby rose bush with the pink roses just now blooming. Robin's favorite he thinks with a slight smile. The image of her face as it lit up when he brought her flowers, which was rarely. He just wasn't the hearts and flowers type. One of the things that he regretted now. He was sure that the small rose bush was his grandmother's doing; and Jason made a mental note to go see her later on.
"Well I'm back Robin." he says quietly. "I'm not sure what I'm going to do about the house. I stayed there last night and it was strange. Cold. Empty. But I haven't been there since you..." he trails off, "I don't want to go back to the penthouse. Sonny and Alexis offered me a room and Johnny and Jasmine did as well. I can't go back to that way of living either. I got used to having my own space, even when I was gone. You know all I really need is a bed and..." he trails off. He was going to have to stop saying, rather thinking that. He was used to telling her that all he needed was a bed and her by his side, he sighs and runs a hand through his hair. He feels a hand on his shoulder and turns to see who it was, though he could already guess.
"I didn't mean to intrude." Sonny Corinthos says taking a seat next to his best friend.
"You're not." Jason says, "I was really doing anything," he pauses, "just talking to Robin."
"I miss her too Jason." Sonny admits.
Jason nods. Fighting back the urge to bolt, he didn't want to discuss Robin with Sonny. "I know."
They sit in silence for a while.
"It was supposed to get easier." he says after a few moments of silence.
"It hasn't?" Sonny questions.
Jason thinks for a moment, "No. Not really. There still feels like there is this big hole in my heart." Jason sighs, "I could barely stand to be in the house last night."
"You know the offer to stay with Alexis and I is still open." Sonny says.
"I appreciate it." Jason says, "I really do but, I can't intrude like that."
"It wouldn't be an intrusion or an imposition." Sonny reminds him.
"Yeah but still..." Jason trails off.
"It's okay to miss her Jason. I do still. There are times when something will happen and I think that I have to tell Robin that or I'll pass by the house and think, I wonder what Robin is doing. And then I remember."
"But you don't see her Sonny." Jason says softly, "You don't see her or imagine you see her." Jason says in a confused but strong voice.
He feels a caress of air on his cheek and we see the apparition of Robin Morgan standing beside him as she gently touches his cheek with her fingertips. "My sweet love," she whispers in a quiet voice. "It'll be okay."
Jason looks over at Sonny seriously and says, "And you don't feel her nearby or hear her voice whispering to you."
"That's still happening?" Sonny questions. "Dreams?"
"Dreams sometimes but this happens when I'm awake too Sonny." Jason says looking away from his friend and to the headstone.
"I still feel Lily sometimes too Jason." Sonny says, "You're not going crazy."
"I know that." Jason says, "I know that I'm not crazy. I loved Robin with all that I had Sonny. It's just hard."
Sonny sighed fully aware of what his friend was going through. "I don't know what to say Jason. I wish I had some magic words to say that would make it better. Or easier, but I don't."
"But you see Sonny, I don't want that. What if it gets easier and I start to forget. Robin was supposed to be the one great love of my life. We knew that the protocol wouldn't sustain her forever, but it was supposed to give us more time. We didn't have nearly enough time." he whispers.
~*~
Robin moves to Sonny side and whispers, "Help him Sonny." he frowns and looks around.
"Let him in Jason." she whispers moving to Jason's side again. "You're not alone."
Robin looks up when she feels another entity beside her. "Hi." she nods.
"Hi." Lucky says standing back with her to watch Jason and Sonny. "Think we can do this?" he asks looking over at her.
"They need a push Lucky. How else are they going to find the peace that they both need?" Robin tells him.
"You know I'd never figured Elizabeth and Jason for soulmates." he says a bit sadly.
"Me either Lucky." Robin says, "But you can have more than one soulmate."
"I know. We were the first ones, the preparation to get them to this point." Lucky tells her.
"Now we just have to help them get to each other." Robin says.
"I like Jason. He was a good choice."
"Well it's not like we have any say in this." Robin laughs and Lucky does too. She covers her mouth when she sees Jason look over in her direction. She knew that he couldn't see her but she needed and wanted him to move on, to live again. It was time.
"He'll help her open up and live again."
Robin nods in agreement, "And Elizabeth will help him too. He needs a sounding board and a comforter. No one knows what he carries with him all the time. She'll help to ease the load some. He can depend on her."
"So are you ready?" Lucky asks holding out his hand.
"Yeah." Robin smiles, "Operation Liason is in effect." She takes his hand and they walk off into the distance and disappear.
~*~
Jason brings his thoughts back to what Sonny was saying.
"Jasmine and Johnny are having dinner over their house tonight." he says, "Are you coming?"
"I don't know." Jason says.
Sonny nods, deciding not to push. He understood better than most about the need to be alone. "Ready to go or do you want more time? I can leave you alone." he offers
Jason looks back at the headstone, "No." he shakes his head, getting up. "It's time." he says softly.
~*~
"Now to work on Elizabeth." Lucky says looking over at Robin who nods.
~*~
I'm glad everyone likes the twist that I added. I don't know where it came from. This story is basically writing itself, probably because it's sorta similar to the book I'm writing. Well the spirit part anyway.
I figured I'd combine my favorite couples in one story, L&L2 - original, J&R, and Liason. Something different, but I think it's doable and hopefully it won't turn people off.
And my hubby helped with the ending, it was his idea cause I was stuck on it.
Thanks for all the replies. I really appreciate them and they really help me to write.
Please reply if you can. Here or by PM.
Enjoy.
-danie-
Chapter 4
~Evening, J&J's house~
Johnny was out back by the barbecue being harassed by Sonny and Mike. Alexis, Jasmine and Elizabeth were talking at the patio table and Liberty was running around/chasing Bonkers Johnny and Jasmine's little terrier. Well actually Jasmine's terrier, Johnny refused to claim it saying that it wasn't a real dog.
"Did you talk to Jason?" Johnny asks his friend and boss.
"He said he may be by later." Sonny says.
"He told me that he'd be stopping by." Mike tells him. They look at him curiously, "He stopped by the Recovery Room for a beer earlier."
"Which generally means that he's not coming." Johnny says.
"You didn't serve him did you?" Sonny asks.
"One." Mike says, "But he didn't really drink it. We just talked."
"About what?" Johnny questions.
"Nothing in particular. The places he'd been." Mike says.
Johnny sighs, "How was he?"
"Better." Mike says, "Still avoiding the topic but he seemed a bit better than the last time I saw him."
"Better?" Sonny questions. And nods as he thinks about that, "A bit. He misses her Johnny. You saw them together. It's going to be hard to get over that."
"I know." Johnny sighs again and flips the burgers. "I just wish I knew how to help him. Lord knows if anything happened to Jazz, I'd go crazy."
"Me too." Sonny says looking at Alexis, "I didn't think that I'd find that kind of love again." he says honestly. "We just have to give him time and be there for him."
~*~
"What do you suppose they're over there talking about?" Elizabeth asks Jasmine and Alexis.
The other women turn and study their men for a second, "Probably Jason. That's Sonny's 'I'm worried about Jason.' stance." Alexis says with a nod.
Jasmine nods studying Johnny for a moment, "Yeah, Johnny's too." she sighs, "But he came to the club the other night. On Liz's opening."
"How'd that go?" Alexis asks Elizabeth, "Sonny and I wanted to come, but we, um, got distracted." she says with a slight blush.
"Distracted huh?" Jasmine teases.
Alexis shrugs.
"It went well." Elizabeth says.
"It went fabulous Alexis. You should have heard her." Jasmine smiles, "She's just being modest." she leans over toward Alexis, "She even flirted with Jason."
"What?" Alexis gasps, "Did he flirt back?"
"Does Jason flirt?" Jasmine asks shaking her head, "He smiled."
"He flirted." Alexis laughs, "As much as Jason can, a smile from Jason Morgan is as good as a good line from Sonny."
"Damn." Jasmine gushes, "Sonny's got some great lines too."
"How do you think he got me?"
"The Armani suits and dimples." Elizabeth says with a laugh.
"The fact that he's gorgeous." Jasmine throws in.
"That didn't hurt." Alexis says with a smile.
~*~
~The Bridge~
Jason sits on the ledge staring out at the murky depths below. He sighs, "Remember when I found you here. The day Jeanetta died, you stood up here on this ledge ready to jump." he smiles, "I got up here with you and then grabbed you and pulled you off. You were so mad at me." he chuckles, "It was the first time we kissed. It was the first time I saw you mad at me. A first in a long line."
{Flashback}
Jason: (trying to understand) Is that why you wanted to jump? Because you're mad?
Robin: I wasn't gonna do it. (She turns away from him and walks to the ledge as she talks) I know that suicide isn't the answer. It's a permanent solution to a temporary problem. Not that my situation is exactly temporary. (She looks up at him) I don't know. I guess I just wanted to shake my fist at God or the fates or something. As a way of saying I can't handle anymore, look what you're driving me to. I was being stupid....I'm sorry I pulled you into it.
Jason: No, I'm just glad I was here. (He walks over to her and stands next to her)
Robin: It's just that sometimes I would like to get out of my body for awhile, you know? (she closes her eyes) Just take a vacation.
Jason: Why? (His voice is soft)
Robin: Cause so many things hurt so much.
Jason: Like all the deaths? Your boyfriend, and then that lady everyone liked...Keesha's grandmother..and now this little girl.
Robin: Jeanetta.
Jason: Jeanetta.
Robin: She was so sweet, Jason. She was just a little girl, she should have lived a long, long time. Like Stone.
Jason: He was your boyfriend? (Robin nods) ...Stone...that's a good name.
Robin: I thought so too. I know I accused you of not knowing me. That's not really fair. (She wipes away a tear) I mean, I can't expect you to if I hide this thing that's defined me for the last year. So here goes, (She takes a deep breath) Jeanetta had AIDS. Do you know what that means?
Jason: Yeah, it's a virus that attacks the immune system.
Robin: That's how Stone died...and I might get it too. (Jason looks confused) Jason I'm trying to tell you that I'm HIV positive.
(Jason looks at her for a moment, then slowly leans down to kiss her. Robin just stands there, almost disbelieving, letting him touch his lips to hers, before she pushes him away in anger.)
Robin: How dare you!!
Jason: What's wrong?
Robin: What's wrong?!! I tell you I'm a high risk and you gotta go straight for it. Go play on the turnpike, Jason. Get yourself into a nice game of Russian Roulette. But stay away from me!! I'm not going to be your suicide mission!
Jason: That's not right what you're saying. You can't contract HIV by casual kissing. The virus has to enter through the blood stream through unprotected sex or, or blood transfusions, or sharing needles. (He looks confused) How do I know this?
Robin: You learned everything you could to help Stone because you were his friend. I thought you were mine, Jason. (She shakes her head) I guess not.
Jason: Why are you all bent out of shape? (She shakes her head in angry disbelief) Don't you get it? I knew I wasn't putting myself at risk. You weren't any suicide mission.
Robin: Then why did you kiss me?
Jason: Because I wanted to.
Robin: You find out I'm HIV positive and your first instinct is to kiss me?
Jason: (being sarcastic) Maybe it's that whacked frontal lobe.
Robin: This isn't funny, Jason.
Jason: Maybe not...I just liked how your mouth looked...kind of trembly but strong at the same time and I wondered how it would feel to kiss you, so I did. But if you're this upset maybe I should have left town
{End of Flashback}
"Is that where you are Robin?" Jason says quietly, "With Stone. Free from HIV? AIDS? The Protocol?" he asks. Jason looks towards the side where we seee an apparition in white and gold light.
"I thought you had a death wish." Robin's ghost whispers.
Jason turns his head towards where she is sitting, close to him, "Yeah." he nods with a sigh. He glances down at his watch, "I'm supposed to go to Johnny's for dinner." he says. "I should be going."
"Be safe Jason." Robin says.
He nods, "I love you Robin." he whispers before getting down and going to his bike.
"I love you too." she whispers. She turns her head and sees Lucky, "This may be harder than we thought."
"Why?" Lucky asks.
"He's shutting down. Closing himself off, I was afraid of this happening."
"Well what do we do to stop it?" Lucky asks.
"He needs something to connect to, believe in." she says.
"I know just the thing." Lucky smiles.
~*~
~J&J's House~
"I hope that you aren't burning the food." Francis says coming into the backyard.
Emily following behind him. She scans the backyard and says, disappointed, "He's not here?"
"He'll be here." Sonny assures her.
"I hope so." She sighs, "I'm just worried about him."
"I know." Sonny nods, "But I think you should be the one that we're worrying about?"
"Why?" Emily says scrunching up her face confused.
"Coming in with Francis?"
Emily laughs, "Me and Francis?" she says with another laugh.
"Hey!" Francis says with mock hurt.
"Sorry." Emily says still laughing, "We just walked in together."
"That's better." Sonny laughs.
"Hey." Francis says again, "I am standing right here you know."
"Sorry." Emily says kissing him on the cheek. "You know I love you Francis." she smiles.
"Yeah. Yeah. You and every other woman on the planet." he says going over to say hello to the others.
~*~
~Half an hour later~
They're all sitting around the table in the back. Johnny and Jasmine, Sonny and Alexis on one side; Liberty on the end near Elizabeth who was sitting on the opposite side next to Emily, Francis, and Mike. Elizabeth looked towards the back gate when she heard the roar of a motorcycle in the distance, no one else seemed to notice or pay attention to it so she shrugs and goes back to her food.
Jason comes inside the back gate and leans against the cool brick, watching everyone interact. It was good to see everyone happy and peaceful. Peace, he thinks. That's just what he needed, peace of mind, peace of soul and peace of heart. Seeing the group together with the two additions, made him feel better. It made him think that he had made the right decision to come home.
The squeal of his name from his sister's lip brought him back into the present. Jason had just enough time to catch his sister in his arms as she launched herself at him. "Jason." she says with a smile, "I'm so glad you came. "Hungry?" she asks looking him over, "You look thin. Have you ate today?"
"Em." Jason says gently pulling away.
"Sorry." she sighs.
And he nods. "I'm fine."
She looks him over again, "Okay." she takes his hand and pulls him towards the others, "Jason this is one of my best friend's in the whole world. Elizabeth Webber and her daughter Liberty, who just happens to be my Goddaughter."
"We met." Jason says simply. He takes the other vacant seat at the table.
"When?" Emily asks sitting down and looking from one to the other. "Why didn't you tell me that you met my brother?" Emily demands of Elizabeth.
"I didn't realize who he was at first." Elizabeth says, "And we met the other day at Jazzy's club."
"Your opening." Emily says with a nod. "I wish I had been there."
"It's okay Em." Elizabeth smiled, "It's not your fault that Max got arrested in Michigan and you had to bail him out. Blame Sonny for keeping Alexis distracted." she says.
"Elizabeth." Alexis hisses while she blushes. Elizabeth shrugs and the others laughs.
"So it's my fault that Max got arrested and Emily had to go bail him out." Sonny says.
"Well you did hire him." Alexis points out.
"I thought you were on my side."
"I am." she says.
"What about the crush that Max has on her?" Jasmine laughs.
"No that's Em's fault. Or rather those Ally McBeal looking skirt's she wears."
"Hey." Emily says. "And blame Jazzy for that. She's the one who took me shopping."
"Well actually, that would be Johnny's fault for being out of town. I had to do something to occupy my time."
"Well see then that leads us back to Sonny because he's the one that sent Johnny out of town." Alexis says.
"My side Alexis." Sonny reminds her.
"Sorry sweetheart." she says with a smile before kissing him softly.
"Eww." Liberty says. Causing the adults to laugh.
"I'll show you eww." Elizabeth says picking Liberty up from the booster seat and raining kisses all over her face.
Liberty laughs and turns her head towards Jason. "Daddy." she says pointing towards Jason. Everyone at the table is silent, Elizabeth gasps. We see standing off to side near Jason, Lucky. But from the angle that Liberty is in, it looks like she is pointing at Jason.
"Daddy's gone baby." Elizabeth reminds her daughter gently.
"Daddy." Liberty says pointing towards Jason again. We hear Lucky say, "Pretty eyes." and Liberty repeats him and looks at Jason, "Pretty eyes." she says with a nod.
Elizabeth, Johnny and Jasmine exchange glances and shake their heads slightly. Neither had mentioned Elizabeth calling Jason pretty eyes while Liberty was around, or to anyone else for that matter. The three exchange another look and turn to look at Jason who has the same confused look on his face.
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Post by JRK Archiver on Feb 13, 2008 13:50:47 GMT -5
Chapter 5 Sonny, Alexis, Emily, Francis and Mike all look from one end of the table to the other. Right now they were focused on Elizabeth's end of the table. Elizabeth frowned and chewed on her bottom lip as she thought of how to ask her daughter about calling Jason pretty eyes. Lucky knowing what Elizabeth was thinking moved towards the end of the table where she and Liberty sat. "Tell Mommy who told you about pretty eyes." "Daddy tell me mommy." Liberty says looking up at her mother with clear blue eyes. Elizabeth looks at Jason. "He does have pretty eyes." she says softly. "Do you still see your daddy babygirl?" Elizabeth asks looking back over at Liberty who nods. "Where babygirl?" Liberty pointed to where Lucky was standing, beside Elizabeth. Elizabeth turned her head and gasps when she feels a light touch on her shoulder. We see Lucky's hand on her shoulder and Liberty leans her head back and says, "Daddy tall." Elizabeth nods, I guess to a 2 and a half year old Lucky would seem tall. "Daddy glow." Liberty says. "That's cause Daddy's an angel." Lucky says. "Daddy angel." Elizabeth nods again and tears coming to her eyes. Her mind overwhelmed with the fact that her daughter was sitting on her lap and talking to her dead father. Lucky leans down and kisses Liberty on the forehead. "Thank you Daddy." "My precious babygirl. I love you." Lucky whispers and Liberty smiles. "What did your daddy say?" Elizabeth asks a bit nervously. "Kiss and love me." Lucky moves back towards Jason's end of the table and is joined by Robin. "Angel lady." Liberty says looking at Robin. "Pretty." "Thank you." Robin replies. "Welcome." Liberty said the best she could. Robin places her hand on Jason's shoulder. He sighs, relaxing a bit. He was watching Liberty intently and she turns her head and smiles at him. He could tell she was a special little girl. Like Michael, he sighs and this time Robin and Lucky place a hand on his shoulder. "Is there someone else with daddy?" Elizabeth asks. "Pretty angel lady." Liberty says looking at her mom. Turning towards her daddy and Robin, "What's name?" "Robin." Jason and Robin say at the same time. The group now turns to Jason and stares. Robin smiles as does Lucky, they nod to one another and start to fade. "Don't go daddy." "I have to babygirl. It's time. I love you." Lucky says in a soft voice, "But I will always be here when you need me. I am always with you Liberty, in your heart." Liberty nods and sniffles sadly as Lucky and Robin fade away. She hugs her mother tightly and Elizabeth whispers, "It's okay babygirl. Daddy loves you. And he will always be with you Liberty, in your heart." Liberty nods, "Daddy said so too." "Then it must be true." she whispers to Liberty. "Angels can't lie can they?" Elizabeth asks looking back at the others. "I don't think so." Emily says. "Wouldn't it be wrong if they did?" Francis asks, "Like they'd lose their wings or something." "Daddy no have wings Uncle Frannie." Liberty says turning her head towards him. "Yeah Uncle Frannie." Johnny says with a smile, "Only angels who were born in heaven and never born have wings. Like the Archangels. Angels are spirits without bodies, and are frequently sent as messengers. See there's a whole hierarchy of angels, guides, cherubs..." he trails off noticing them all watching him curiously. "What?" He asks raising and eyebrow. "When did you get so wise on Angelology?" Jasmine asks turning to her husband. "Since one walked into my life." he says easily. "Aww." Alexis, Elizabeth and Emily say together and then laugh. "That sounds like a Sonny line to me." Emily says to Jasmine. "A Sonny line?" Sonny questions. "Yes." Emily says simply, not elaborating any. "Could be." Jasmine says, "Alexis?" she turns to the other woman. "Oh definitly." Alexis agrees, "But the real test is that you have to answer the question?" "What are you ladies talking about?" Johnny asks. Jason chuckles. He had come home one day and Robin and Emily were discussing Sonny and his ways with women. They hadn't said anything to him then, but Jason had managed to persuade Robin to tell him. He chuckles again. "And I suppose you know what they are talking about Morgan?" Johnny asks his friend. "Yeah." he nods not elaborating any. Emily turns to her brother and winks. "What question?" Sonny asks. "No comment." the ladies all says together. "And yes." Jasmine tells the women. "I hate when you all do that." Francis groans. "Now you know how we feel." Emily says with a smile. "Not quite." Francis mutters under his breath so that only Emily hears him and she blushes. "Okay." Emily says getting up from the table, "On that note, I'm heading home." She goes over to Jason, "How about a ride big brother?" "Sure." he says standing up, "But one of these days we're gonna get you your own bike." "Really?" Emily says hopefully. "Sure why not." he says with a slight smile when he sees her so happy. "Great. Have I told you how much I love you big brother?" "Constantly." he replies. "It's not like you haven't been begging me for one of your own for forever." "It hasn't been that long." Emily protests hitting him after she got her bag. "Practically since I was born Em." Jason says and moves before she hits him again. "Oh." she says with fake frustration. She was really glad that Jason seemed less tense. She didn't know what had caused it but she wasn't about to look a gift horse in the mouth. "Let's go." she says grabbing him and dragging him towards the front. "Bye guys." she say waving off-handedly. "Bye." Jason says with an off hand wave over his head. "Bye." they all said waving and shaking their heads. Jason did seem to relax some when Liberty had mentioned seeing Robin and Lucky. They didn't know what to make of the strange events of the nights, but somehow they knew that there would be many more to come. ~*~ This is mostly a filler/transitional chapter. Taking a creative license here, I'm changing Francis. I'm thinking a buff, slightly scruff Casper Van Dien. He has varying looks and isn't bad to look at LOL. caspervandien.net/ has some pics up in case you want to see. Check out the post card section too. They have some additional pics there. And his name, I was watching JAG before I went to sleep yesterday. I guess the name stuck. Please reply and let me know what you think. Enjoy. -danie- Songbird Chapter 6 Jason sat on the couch in Emily's apartment listening to her talk about defending Max in Detroit. He knew what she was doing, trying to keep him distracted, keep him there. "Em?" he says finally breaking into the conversation. "Yeah?" she looks over at him. "When were you going to tell me about Francis?" he asks. "What about him?" Emily says avoiding the question. "Em." Jason says again. "I didn't know how'd you react." she tells him honestly. "Why?" he says. "I didn't want you to feel bad." Emily sighs, "Alone." she says softly. Jason sighs, he had brought this on himself. He sits up straighter and looks her in the eye, "Emily. I love you and I know you're worried about me but I'm fine. I'm not going to wither away or go insane if I see you happy. If I'm around couples. In case you haven't noticed, the whole world is coupled off." Emily sighs and goes to sit next to him, "I just don't want you to hurt." Jason nods, "I know. But I'm okay Em. It hurts, I won't lie to you but I'm doing okay. I'm still here." Emily nods and looks at him, "But I want you to be more than just here. I want you to be living again." "I don't think I know how to do that Em." ~*~ Elizabeth's House Elizabeth carried a sleepy Liberty up to bed to her room. "Mommy sad?" the little girl says suddenly. "No babygirl. Mommy's not sad." Liberty nods and snuggles back into Elizabeth's comforting embrace. "Mommy sing." "Okay." Elizabeth says sitting down in the rocker in Liberty's room. "What song?" "Daddy's song." Elizabeth frowned slightly, "Daddy's song?" Liberty nods, "Does daddy sing to you?" Liberty nods again sleepily, "What song?" "budderflies song." Elizabeth smiles, "How about we just let that be a special song for you and daddy and I sing you a mommy song?" Liberty nods and yawns as Elizabeth begins to softly sing. Baby dear, Mama's here,
Watching o'er your slumber.
Dream, my child, until the dawn
Wakes the daisies on the lawn.
Dream you float in a boat,
Under starry heavens;
Dream of brooks and singing birds,
Scented breezes, tender words.
Dream of all, great and small,
Things serene and lovely;
Fairies, lambs, and butterflies,
Sleepy clouds in summer skies.
Sleep all night, in my sight,
Though you're off in dreamland;
Then, tomorrow, with the sun,
Back to Mama, little one! Written By: Grace Hall; French Folk Song "Sleep baby." she whispers and sets Liberty gently down in her bed. She kisses her on the forehead and then pulls the cover up over her. Elizabeth sighs, and goes to the window, processing the day. She looks toward the sky, "What's going on Lucky?" she questions in a quiet tone, "You never were one for subtleties before. What are you up to and what does Jason have to do with it?" she wonders aloud. Shaking her head to clear the thoughts running through she thinks about the look on Liberty's face when Lucky had, what? she laughs. Showed up? Appeared? This is too wierd she thinks. When he had done whatever it was he did. "Thanks for watching out for Liberty Lucky." she whispers. "I miss you. I love you." she says in a quiet voice, taking one last look at Liberty sleeping peacefully before going to her own room. ~*~ Emily's Apartment There's a knock on the door and Emily goes quickly to answer it. She had convinced Jason to stay and he was in the spare room sleeping. "Ssh." she hissed to Francis when she let him in. "Why?" he says in a whisper. "Jason's in the back sleeping." Francis looks at her shocked for a moment, then starts to turn and leave. "Wait." she says in a surprised quiet voice when his hand touches the door knob. "Where are you going? "Em." Francis says turning around, "Your brother is down that hall. Jason may not be himself but he's still armed. I don't feel like getting shot tonight." "You won't." Emily says taking his hand and leading him to the couch she pushed him down and then sat on his lap. Francis' arms immediately went around her pulling her closer to him, "Besides, I already told him." "What?" he says surprised. "Why?" "He asked." Emily says simply. "Oh great." Francis mutters. "Will you miss me after I'm gone?" "Jason's not going to kill you Francis." Emily says tilting her head to look at him. "I take it you didn't tell him about us sleeping together." he asks. "Is that all it is?" Emily asks in a hurt voice. Oh man. he thinks. "I didn't mean that the way it sounded baby." he whispers. "I'm sorry." Emily looks at him with saddened eyes, "You didn't answer the question." "It is so much more than that Emily. There's no words to describe what it is to me." he pauses and gently caresses her cheek, "If I just wanted sex Em. This would have never started between us." She nods, "I wanted more than just the casual thing. I wanted a relationship. Us. You." he says giving her a soft kiss. "I love you Emily Ann Bowen Quartermaine." "I love you too Francis James Elliot." she says softly kissing him. ~*~ Emily's Spare Room Jason wasn't really sleeping, he had only pretended to be when Emily had come to check on him. He stood by the window, trying to make sense of what happened that day. And he still hadn't been able to come up with anything. The thought of a child Liberty age seeing "angels" wasn't surprising. She was still innocent and untouched by societies ills and discriminations. What surprised him was that she had seen Robin too, not just Lucky, her father. They had a connection but as far as he knew Robin and Elizabeth didn't have a connection. The other thought that ran through his head was why was Robin with Lucky. Jason tilts his head back and raises his eyes upward with a sigh. "What's going on Robin?" he asks in a quiet voice. "I know you and I know you're trying to tell me something. But what does Elizabeth and Lucky's daughter have to do with it?"
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Post by JRK Archiver on Feb 13, 2008 13:51:24 GMT -5
Songbird - Chapter 7
Elsewhere, On a Cloud
Robin and Lucky are looking down over Port Charles.
"Should we do it?" Lucky asks.
Robin thinks for a moment, "It'll probably just raise more questions."
"True." Lucky sighs, "But we're already behind schedule. Jason's disappearing act set us back a bit."
"Hey." Robin says defensively, "I tried to get him back sooner."
"I know. I know." Lucky replies, "I'm sorry. I just hate to see them like this."
"I know." Robin says, "But do you think it's too soon?"
"It'll at least get the idea in their head. Plant that kernal of something." he shrugs.
"Kernal of something?" Robin questions.
"Ran out of words." Lucky laughs.
"What about the others?" Robin wonders.
"Oh I have some plans for them too."
"What?" Robin prompts.
Lucky tells her his plan and Robin smiles and nods.
"That's perfect." she exclaims.
Lucky smiles that wonderful smile of his and it's even brighter now. "Well let's get to work."
Robin nods and they hope down off the cloud and go their seperate ways.
~*~
Webber House, Elizabeth's Room
The one thing on Elizabeth's mind when she went to bed was Liberty and what had happened that night. Part of her was glad that Liberty was open enough to see her father and apparently Robin. The other part was worried about what it meant. Why now? What had changed?
A slightly younger Elizabeth is working at Kelly's.
"I'll be right with you." she tells the customer who just sat down at the counter, "How may I help you?" she asks with a smile.
"I'll have some of Ruby's famous chili." the customer replies.
"Will that be all ma'am?"
"Yes." she smiles, "And please. Call me Robin."
A short time later, Elizabeth comes back with the chili.
"Are you new in town?" she asks, "I don't remember seeing you."
"I've been..." Robin pauses, "away."
Elizabeth turns her back to go wait on someone else and when she turns around Robin's bowl is untouched.
"Something wrong with the chili?" Elizabeth questions, "Robin?" she calls but her attention is elsewhere.
"Sorry." Robin replies, "The chili is delicious."
"But you haven't touched it?"
"No." Robin nods, "I don't need to." she smiles and turns her head, towards the courtyard. But instead of the courtyard we see the park where Liberty is playing with Jason. "Certain things you just know. It's time Elizabeth. Time to see what's right in front of you." she says before disappearing.
"Robin wait." she calls, "Time for what?"
Elizabeth wakes up with a start. "Time for what?" she questions aloud.
~*~
Emily's Apartment - Spare Room
Jason finally gives in to his tiredness and lays down. He falls into a restless sleep shortly after.
Jason is dressed in all black. Jeans and a black tee, working in the bike shop he used to own. He looks up when Lucky comes in.
Jason looks up from the motorcycle that he was working on. "I thought you left." he says.
"I have." Lucky replies. "I'm just a figment of your imagination."
"Along with everything else." Jason says. He stands, wiping his hands on his jeans, "What's up?"
"Seen Elizabeth lately?" he questions.
"No." Jason replies. "She doesn't come around here you know that. Besides this is no place for a lady Lucky."
"Elizabeth's tough. She can handle it."
"Tough or not?" Jason shakes his head and goes over to the sink to wask his hands, "She shouldn't have to. This isn't exactly a safe place."
"Love never is safe Jason." Lucky tells him.
"Who said anything about love?" Jason asks turning around only to find Lucky gone.
Jason awakes with a start. "But I'm not in love with Elizabeth. I barely know her." he thinks.
~*~
Morning
With a yawn, a shirtless Jason, wearing a pair of loose jogging pants that hung low that he had left there after Robin died when he had stayed with Emily for a few weeks before he left town, goes into the kitchen. He isn't surprised to see Francis in the kitchen cooking. The two men nod in acknowledge and Jason takes the proferred cup of coffee from Francis.
Jason takes a small drink, "Don't hurt her." he says in a low, slightly threatening tone.
"I won't." Francis nods sitting down at the table, "I love her Jason."
"Then why keep it a secret?" Jason asks.
"You for one. This job for the other."
Jason frowns.
Francis sighs, "I don't want Em to get hurt or to be used as a pawn because some sick son of a b---- wants to get even with us." he sighs again and runs a hand through his hair, "I don't want that for her."
"Then walk away." Jason replies in an cool tone.
"I know what you're doing Jason and it's not going to work." he replies, "Would you? Walk away I mean?"
"Not then." he replies, "But maybe now I would. But that options not open to me. Robin's gone." he pauses, "And don't apologize damn it. It's not your fault." Jason sighs, "What I'm saying is. If you think you have something worth holding on to then do it. Stop worrying about me or what anybody else thinks." Jason gets up and pours himself another cup of coffee. He turns and leans against the counter, "Life's to short Francis not to be living it. We're not promised a future. Especially in our line of work." he adds. He sets the newly poured cup of coffee on the counter and goes over to Francis, "Just remember this," he says putting his hand on Francis' shoulder. "hurt her and I will kill you."
A bit later Emily comes out. "Hey baby." she smiles softly, her eyes twinkling, "Jason up yet?"
"Yes. He's been up. Threatened me and went back into the back room." Francis pauses, "There's a plate for you in the microwave."
"Thanks." she looks him over appreciatively, "Well you're still in one piece." She smiles, "I told you he wouldn't kill you."
"He hasn't yet Emmie. Yet is the key word here."
"He won't." she says confidently, "Trust me."
"I do." Francis nods. He closes his eyes and looks down, "I'm on in a few hours." his voice is quiet, sad and a touch impersonal.
She nods and purses her lips. The twinkle gone from her eyes she says, "Oh." she goes over and gives him a light kiss, "Okay then." she pours Jason's untouched cup into the sink and grabs a mug for herself.
"Em." Francis says quietly, "Don't be like this."
"Like what?" Emily says taking a sip of her coffee, "I'm just trying to make things easier on you." she tells him, "You have to prepare or whatever you do before you go to work. You don't need to be thinking about me. Us."
"Impossible." he says getting up and going over to her. He pins her inside his arms agains the counter, "I meant it what I said last night." he kisses her, "And this morning." he kisses her again, "And it's impossible for me not to think about you or us." he tilts his head to the side and gives her a small lopsided grin, "You're always on my mind."
"But your mind should be on your job, not on me." she tells him quietly touching his chest lightly.
"I'm not going to get hurt Em." he says softly, "Please don't pull away from me now."
"I'm trying not to Francis. I really am. But you can't promise me that you're going to be okay. That's something's not going to happen to take you away from me. That you're going to come back in one piece." she sighs, "I can't help it. I worry. I know you're good at what you do. And I'm not trying to change you. I'm really not. But I just get worried. Like every other time you walk out that door, I worry." she looks up at him and he sees the tears glistening in her eyes, "I'm allowed too."
He nods and pulls her into a hug.
~*~
~Early Afternoon~
Jason was alone at Emily's she had gone into work a while after Francis. He had fallen back to sleep since his dream had kept him up. So still shirtless, Jason opens the door with a "Yeah."
Elizabeth eyes his massive, muscular chest and slowly raises her eyes to meet his.
"Sorry." he says, "Hi."
"Pretty eyes." Liberty says happily clapping.
"Hi Liberty." Jason says to her.
"Is, um, is Em here?" Elizabeth asks a bit nervously.
Jason steps aside and lets them in, "No." he says, "She had court this morning."
"Oh." Elizabeth nods, "Well then we'll just go. We didn't mean to disturb you."
"You're not." Jason says looking down, he realizes he doesn't have a shirt on and says, "Excuse me."
When he comes back in dressed in a blue t-shirt and jeans, Elizabeth is sitting on the couch and Liberty is playing with the few toys that Emily kept for her at the apartment.
"I was just laying down." he tells her, "I didn't sleep much last night."
"Me either." Elizabeth replies, "I had the strangest dream." her eyes drift to the pictures on the mantle and gasps.
"What's wrong?" he asks concerned.
Elizabeth points to a picture of Jason and Robin from their wedding. "Is that your wife?" he looks at the picture and nods, "Robin?" she questions and Jason nods again hesitantly.
"Why?"
"She's the one that I dreamed about." Elizabeth tells him.
Jason looks at her shocked. "What I mean is that she's the one that was in my dreams."
"Oh." Jason nods, "That's strange cause I had a dream about Lucky last night."
"Daddy visit me too." Liberty says looking over at them and then focusing her attention back to the Growing Smart Lap Top Computer (from Fisher Price) that Em had got her for her last birthday.
"What did she say?" Jason asks, "If you don't mind telling me that is."
"She mentioned something about time." Elizabeth says.
Jason nods, "She was really big on time and living life to the fullest." he sighs, "Given everything, she had to be."
"Did you want to talk about it?" Elizabeth asks, "You don't have to, but I know that it helped me. To talk about Lucky I mean, to an objective person." she pauses and smiles as she watches Liberty, "I was pregnant with Libby and losing Lucky was hard. Everyone meant well, but they had a vested interest in me moving on." she looks over at Jason and sees the understanding in his eyes.
"I know." he nods.
"She reminds me so much of him. Especially when she's playing with that computer, that's so Lucky."
Jason watches her for a moment and laughs, "Yeah. Just like him." he pauses in memory, "When I had the bike shop, I'd let him use the office sometimes and I'd come in and he'd be bent over that laptop."
"I remember." Elizabeth says with a slightly sad tone to her voice. "What was your dream about?"
"He just asked if I had seen you and said how tough you are." Jason says, leaving out the love part.
"I don't know about being tough." she says with a small laugh.
"Well," Jason says, "I figured you'd have to be. Raising Liberty without Lucky. I know you have help, but still it has to be hard, being a single parent."
"I manage." Elizabeth shrugs.
"Mommy?" Liberty says looking up.
"Yes baby?"
"I love you." Liberty says.
"I love you too Liberty."
"Mommy?" she says again.
"Yes Liberty?"
"Can I ride my bike?" she says hopefully going over to the Barbie Tricycle that Emily kept over there.
"Sure." Elizabeth says standing up, "Excuse us," she laughs, "I guess we have a date with a tricycle."
Liberty goes over to Jason, "Pretty eyes come too."
"I don't know Libby." Elizabeth says, "Pretty eyes, I mean um, Jason may have somethings to do sweetie."
Liberty looks sadly at Jason, "Pretty eyes come too." she says to him.
Jason looks to Elizabeth who shrugs and back to Liberty and nods, "Okay."
"Yea." Liberty says bouncing happily and clapping.
Jason grabs the tricycle and Elizabeth gets Liberty hand, as he escorts them out. Liberty smiles at them both and grabs Jason's free hand as they walk down the stairs and out onto the street. He sets the tricycle down and Liberty happily climbs on. Jason and Elizabeth walk behind her, talking.
~*~
It wasn't clearly obvious who was surprised more by the scene that greeted them at the apartment. Elizabeth and Jason walking in on a crying Emily surrounded by Alexis and Jasmine. Or Emily, Alexis and Jasmine seeing Elizabeth come in with Jason holding a sleeping Liberty along with her tricycle. Passing Liberty to Elizabeth gently and wordlessly, Jason went to Emily's side.
After a quick nod of hello to Alexis and Jasmine, he asks. "What's wrong Em?" the worry in his voice is evident as he asks, "Did something happen? Is it grandmother?"
"No." Emily says and Jason nods, it was Francis.
"Okay." he says, "I'm going to go back to the house. Get out of your hair."
"Your not in my hair Jase."
"I know." he says giving her a soft kiss on the forehead. "But I can't keep hiding. It's time." he says looking at Elizabeth. He goes over to her and says a quiet thank you before leaving.
Elizabeth goes and lays Liberty down in the spare bedroom. "Okay what happened?" she ask sitting down.
"That's what we'd like to know." Jasmine says.
Elizabeth looks at her confused, "What are you talking about?"
"You and my brother." Emily says, "You two look awfully cozy."
"We just went for a walk with Liberty. She wanted to ride her tricycle." Elizabeth explains.
"That's all?" Alexis prompts.
"We talked." she says slightly exasperated, "Now tell me what's wrong with Emily."
"You're probably going to be mad at me when I tell you this." Emily begins quietly.
"What is it?" Elizabeth says suddenly afraid.
"I um, well, and you can't tell anybody this." Emily says. "Jason knows but no one outside this room."
Elizabeth nods, "Okay."
"Francis and I have been dating." Emily says.
"Francis?" Elizabeth says and Emily nods, "Our Francis?" she says and Emily nods again. Elizabeth smiles and hugs her friend. "I'm so happy for you." she pulls back, "But why are you crying?"
"We kinda had an argument this morning." she sighs, "Well not an argument but the discussion." she sighs again, "The fear of him not coming back. And we left it in a good place but then I got to court this morning and I was fine and got through it and then Alexis asked me how I was and I started crying." she says tearing up again.
"Oh Em." Elizabeth says, "I'm sure Francis is fine."
"I know he is but I can't help but worry." she looks at Elizabeth, "I've never felt this away before. Not about anyone. I love him Elizabeth."
They all sit quietly, "Em?" Elizabeth says hesitantly. They all look at her, "I don't know Jason that well or anything but would he have really gone home if he thought you were upset about Francis."
"Oh God." Emily groans she grabs her cell phone and speeds dial Francis.
"Elliot." he says answering the phone.
"Hi. It's me."
"Hey me." he says with a smile. He frowns slightly catching something in her tone, "Something wrong babe?"
"Run Francis."
"Why?" he says already getting up.
"I was um, kinda upset a little while ago and Jason was here and he might think it was about you. I mean it was in a way but not really. He said that he was going home, but..."
"Em." he says in a quiet, firm tone cutting her rambling off.
"Sorry." she sighs, "Anyway, he may be on his way over."
Francis looks up as the door to Sonny's penthouse opens, "Too late." he says. Standing in the door, arms crossed looking pissed is Jason. "I'll talk to you later." he pauses, "Hopefully." he hangs up and backs up from Jason.
Emily looks at the hung up phone and then back at the ladies, "That's not good." she says shaking her head as she grabbed her coat, keys and bag.
"Let's go." Alexis says getting up. Elizabeth went to go get Liberty and the four women left to go to Alexis and Sonny's penthouse to head off any unnecessary bloodshed.
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Post by JRK Archiver on Feb 13, 2008 13:53:50 GMT -5
Songbird ~ Chapter 8
PH#1 ~ Sexis PH
"I thought I told you not to hurt her." Jason says in a even tone closing the door behind him.
"I didn't." Francis says backing away from him.
"Then why was she crying when I left her apartment Francis." Jason says advancing on his friend. "Explain that to me. Cause see to me, tears are generally a bad thing."
"True." Francis agrees.
"Glad to see that you agree with me." Francis nods and Jason pauses, thinking "Unless you asked her to marry you and she was just so overcome by happiness and joy that she couldn't stop crying." Jason says evenly. "Cause if that's the case then let me be the first to congratulate you."
Francis gulps and shakes his head no as Jason starts to advance on him again and Johnny and Sonny come out of the kitchen.
"What the hell is going on?" Sonny bellows.
"Nothing." Jason says turning his head slightly towards Sonny, "Francis and I are just having a little talk."
"About?" Johnny prompts.
"You gonna tell them or do you want me too?" Jason asks.
"Emily and I have been dating." he says quietly.
"Ah." Johnny says, "Proceed." he says taking a seat at the table.
Sonny shrugs and joins Johnny. Francis looks at them shocked, "You're just going to let him kill me."
"Sure why not?" Johnny says, "You are dating his baby sister Francis." he smiles at him, "I mean if it were me, I would just maim you but that's me."
"I'm not going to kill you Francis." Jason says with a smile.
"You didn't say that this morning." Francis says cautiously eyeing him.
"Okay, just tell me what happened." Jason says with a sigh sitting down on the couch. "Then I'll decide if I'm going to kill you or not."
"I don't know. We had a talk this morning. It wasn't bad or good. Well not mostly bad. Hell I don't know." Francis says, "She was happy when I left, smiling actually."
"Careful." Jason warns.
"Right." Francis nods.
"What was the conversation about?" Sonny asks moving to the opposite couch as Johnny got some beers from the kitchen and sat down in the chair after passing the beers around.
"The fear." Francis says. The other three men nod, they had been through that before. He sighs, "She says she doesn't want me to change and I believe her but I don't know what I can do to reassure her."
"The problem is," Jason says, "is that you can't."
"We've all been through it." Sonny nods in agreement.
"So what am I going to do?" Francis says with a sigh, "I mean I love her. I don't want to lose her and I'm not going to quit. So what?" he blows out a breath.
"Talk to her." Sonny suggests.
"Does that work?" Francis asks curiously.
"Hell no." Johnny says taking a long drink.
"Okay." Francis frowns taking a long drink of his beer as well, "What did you do?"
"I listened to Jason." Johnny says with a smirk at Sonny.
"Hey." Sonny says.
"Tell me it doesn't work." Johnny says eyeing his boss.
"Okay it works." Sonny admits reluctantly.
Francis turns to Jason just as the door busts open. Jason, Johnny and Francis instantly pull there guns and block access to Sonny.
"Jason stop." all four women say.
The four men look at the women, reholster their guns and crack up laughing.
"Damn." Johnny says. "I almost had a heart attack."
"What's so funny?" Emily says crossing her arms in front of her.
"We're just sitting here talking ladies. Nothing sinister." Sonny says, "Jason threatened Francis a few times and I think Johnny offered to maim him but otherwise just a normal day."
Jason looks at the ladies and says, "What are you doing here anyway?"
"Well," they all say.
"We just wanted to make sure that Francis had all his parts in working order." Alexis says. She looks Francis over, "Looks okay to me." she turns to Emily, "Em?"
Emily tilts her head to the side and studies Francis. She walks up to him and gives him a good long look, all around. She shrugs and goes back to where the ladies are standing, "I guess."
Sonny shows off his dimpled grin, "I have a question that I think needs to be answered."
"And what is it dear?" Alexis says.
"How long has this actually been going on?"
"That's what I'd like to know." Alexis says, "I tried to ask earlier but..." she trails off.
"Just a sec." Francis says he grabs Emily and pulls her toward the family room.
~*~
Francis sits down on the piano bench, his back towards the keys. "Okay Em. What's going on?" he says quietly.
"I don't know." she says going to stand in front of him. "I just lost it today Francis." she sighs and sits down beside him.
"Did something happen?" he questions, "after I left this morning?"
"No."
"Then what Em?" he sighs, "Cause I'm at a loss here."
"So this is it huh?" she asks him leaning into him. "The point of no return we either move forward or stop moving." she says. "Cause everybody knows now we don't have to hide."
He says nothing just wraps his arm around her.
"Alexis asked me something and I lost it. All I could see is you laying on the side of the rode or Jason coming to me telling me that you had been killed or Alexis telling me that you were in the hospital." she shakes her head when the images come again, "They wouldn't stop."
"But I'm right here." he reminds her, "I'm fine."
"I know." Emily says. She opens her mouth to say something but closes her mouth again.
"It's okay Em." Francis nods. "Think about it."
"I'm sorry Francis." she says softly.
"It's okay babe." he gives her a soft kiss. She nods and leaves, leaning against the wall just to the left of the door when she exits. With a deep breath and a sigh she pushes off from the wall and goes into the living room.
~*~
Johnny, Jasmine, Sonny, Alexis, Elizabeth (Liberty was in the downstairs maid's room still napping) and Jason are sitting around talking, trying to resist the urge to see what's going on with Francis and Emily when she comes back into the living room
"I'm going to go." Emily says quietly.
Jason gets up and stops her at the door, "Em." he says and she turns to him with tears glistening. "Don't leave yet." he pauses, "If this is what you want, don't let it go." he smiles sadly, "Life is to short for regrets and what ifs."
"I know." she whispers, "I'm just..." she trails off cause she doesn't really know what she is.
"Scared?" Jason says, "Terrifed?" he questions, "In love." he says finally. "It's natural Em. We've all been through it."
We hear the soft sounds of piano keys in the background. Suddenly, Francis' voice is heard as he begins to sing.
I pretended I'm glad you went away
These four walls closin' more every day
And I'm dying inside
And nobody knows it but me
"Is that Francis?" Jasmine asks.
Emily nods with tears in her eyes, "Yeah." she says softly.
"I never knew Frannie could sing." Johnny says.
"He has a wonderful voice." Emily says proudly.
Like a clown I put on a show
The pain is real even if nobody knows
And I'm crying inside
And nobody knows it but me
Alexis gets up and goes over to him, "Em. He loves you and I know you love him. Or you wouldn't be going through this right now."
Emily nods.
Why didn't I say
The things I needed to say
How could I let my angel get away
"It's okay to be scared." Alexis tells her, "Hell I get scared everytime I leave that it'll be the last time that I see Sonny but it's better to be with him than to be without him."
"I know."
Now my world is just a tumblin' down
I can say it so clearly
But you're nowhere around
Jasmine gets up with a sigh, extracting herself from Johnny's embrace.
"Em." she says, "It's hard I know. See Alexis knows the fear and so do I but it's different from me. See Sonny's the boss and though I love him, I love Johnny more." Emily nods, "You saw the reaction when we came in. Without hesitation Em." she says softly, "That's hard but that's the job. And I know that if something were to happen to him," she pauses, "I'd be so pissed at Sonny. It's not his fault but it's that no hesitation thing. That's what scares me." she looks at Johnny, "But it's so worth it." she smiles at Em, "Go to him Em."
The nights are lonely, the days are so sad
And I just keep thinin' about
The love that we had
And I'm missin' you
And nobody knows it but me
Sonny catches Jason's eye and he nods. He remembered. They both go away for a moment in time. Looking at each other again and nod with a sad smile, hearts slightly heavier with the remembrance of their lost loved ones.
I carry a smile when I'm broken in two
And I'm nobody without someone like you
I'm trembling inside and nobody knows it but me
I lie awake it's a quarter past three
I'm screaming at night if I thought
You'd here me
Yeah my heart is callin' you
And nobody knows it but me
Elizabeth gets up and pulls Emily over to the side, "See my perspective here is unique." Emily smiles, "Lucky wasn't mister straight and narrow by any means Em. I worried that he would do something stupid that would get himself killed cause of that reckless streak that he had." Emily nods, "Don't let him finish the song Em. Go to him. You know you want to and it's worth it." she smiles sadly, "To love and be in love with a wonderful man. It's so worth it Em." she pauses, "I haven't been in love in a long time. I love Lucky but he's gone Em. You have a chance at happiness, love, a match."
"I know." she whispers.
"Remember those nights that we stayed up and talked about guys and what we wanted." Emily nods, "Francis is it Em. He's your perfect guy."
Emily smiles, "I know."
How blue can I get
You could ask my own heart
But like a jigsaw puzzle it's been torn all apart
A million words couldn't say just how I feel
"Go to him Em."
A million years from now you know
I'll be loving you still
Emily nods and walks slowly back into the family room. She places her hand on Francis' shoulder lightly and then wraps her arms around him. He leans back into her embrace and looks up at her with a smile.
"Thank you." he says.
Emily shakes her head no, "I love you." she says, "I'm sorry."
"I love you too Em."
Francis gets up and pulls her into a hug and a deep kiss. They part to a chorus of "aahs." They look over to the door and see everyone standing inside.
"Don't you people have anything better to do." Francis laughs.
"Sadly." Jasmine says, "No we don't."
"Now can I get my question answered." Sonny says.
"And that is?" Emily asks.
"How? When? Why?"
"I can answer why for you Sonny." Elizabeth says.
"You can can you?" Emily says.
"It's the singing. Besides the fact that the man is gorgeous and has a nice body."
"Hey." Emily says.
"Thanks Elizabeth."
"You're welcome." She tells Francis, "And I'm just being observant Em."
"Go observe somebody else."
Elizabeth laughs, "If you look at Em's dating history it's filled with musical types." Elizabeth gives Emily a wink, "Lucky."
"You knew about that?"
"Yes." Elizabeth laughs, "Nik. Juan." she pauses, "I don't know where Zander fit in, but he was cute. Had a nice but."
"Elizabeth." Alexis says.
"It's true." Elizabeth defends.
"Okay that answers the why what about the other two questions?" Johnny says.
"How long?" Sonny says.
Francis and Emily look at each other and then look down at the floor and mumble, "15 months."
"What?" Sonny says loudly.
"Ssh." Elizabeth hisses. "You're going to wake..."
"Mommy."
"Liberty." she finishes, glaring at him as she went to go get her.
"We can't help it if you're unobservant." Emily shrugs.
~*~
Elizabeth comes back out with Liberty, who looks around at everyone still a bit sleepy. She lets go of her mommy's hand, having spied the person she's looking for and goes over to him. She looks up at him with those big eyes of hers. "Pretty eyes." she says with a smile.
Jason kneels in front of her and Liberty wraps her arms around his neck. Instinctively, Jason wraps his arms around her. He stands and looks at Elizabeth with a shrug who was watching her daughter in amazement. Never had she seen Liberty take so fast to someone. She shrugs too. This was new to her. Liberty smiles at her mommy and leans her head on Jason's shoulder. If Elizabeth didn't know any better, she'd think that Liberty was trying to tell her something. Shaking the ridiculous thought out of her head, Elizabeth goes over to Jason and Liberty.
"Still sleepy babygirl?" Elizabeth asks.
Liberty shakes her head no but doesn't raise it from Jason's shoulder.
"Hungry?"
Liberty nods.
"I bet we can get Uncle Dimples over there to cook for us."
"No." Liberty frowns, "Pretty eyes cook."
Jason smirks at Sonny and says, "I don't know Libby. Uncle Dimples might not let me in his kitchen."
Liberty frowns and starts to squirm. Jason puts her down and the adults watch as she goes over to Sonny and says, "Pretty eyes cook."
Sonny looks over at Elizabeth and Jason who shrug. He was on his own. "Fine but I'm supervising."
"Like he'd have it any other way." Alexis mumbles. The others laugh.
"'kay" Liberty says going back over to Jason. She takes his hand and her mother's and leads them both into the kitchen. Emily catches Elizabeth's eye when she passes her and Elizabeth nods.
~*~
Elizabeth picks Liberty up and sets her in the chair, on some phone books. "What would you like to eat?" she asks.
"Cheese." she says happily.
Jason looks at Elizabeth for the translation.
"Macaroni and cheese." she laughs.
Jason nods.
"Okay. Libby." Elizabeth says, "You watch pretty eyes, I mean Jason." she shakes her head, "Mommy will be right back okay."
Liberty nods.
"Elizabeth?" Jason calls before she leaves.
She turns back to him wordlessly.
"Pretty eyes is okay." he smiles.
Elizabeth blushes slightly and goes back into the living room to talk to Emily passing Sonny on his way to the kitchen to supervise.
~*~
"Yeah Em?" she says as they moved to the stairs to sit and talk.
"I just wanted to thank you." Emily says.
"For what?" Elizabeth frowns. "I haven't done anything." she pauses, "If you mean with Francis, I was just telling the truth. You don't need to thank me Em. I love you guys. I just want you happy."
"Not for that. Well for that too, but that's not what I meant."
"Uh huh." Elizabeth nods unsure.
"I meant with Jason. He's been so relaxed today and for letting Liberty be around him."
"Why wouldn't I?" Elizabeth says.
"Because..." Emily trails off.
"Em?" Elizabeth begins gently. She pauses with a smile when she hears Liberty laugh, "I know what Sonny does. What he really does." she whispers, "If I was afraid or scared I wouldn't be here. I trust you guys, all of you with Liberty. I know that she's safe."
"That's not what I meant. I mean it is but..." Emily sighs.
"Just say it Em."
"Jason's been hurting lately and he's been closed off. To us." Emily looks around the room at the others, "This is the first time that I, really any of us, have seen even a glimpse of the old Jason." she pauses, "I want to thank you for that."
"I appreciate the thanks Em. But I didn't do anything." Elizabeth pauses, "We just went for a walk earlier and talked. Liberty seems to really have taken to him. So I didn't do anything." she looks down and then up at Emily, "I understand the hurt. I recognize it in him, in myself. But all I've done is listened."
"But see that's where you're wrong Elizabeth?" Emily tells her, "You've gotten Jason to do something that none of us have. Open up and he's laughing and smiling. He hasn't been this, I don't know, what's the word, carefree?" she shakes her head, "relaxed" she nods, "since..." she trails off.
"Since Robin died." she finishes for Em. "It's okay Em." Elizabeth says, "He told me about Robin."
They both look up when they hear a chorus of laughter coming from the kitchen. Two manly and one childlike. But the most refreshing one was the one that hadn't been heard in a while.
Emily smiles softly, "He's laughing Elizabeth."
"That's good Em." she says gently, "It means he's starting to heal."
~*~
Jason, Sonny and Liberty finish cooking. Well Liberty was the one who was actually supervising making sure Uncle Dimples didn't get in Pretty Eyes way.
The group ate as a family laughing, joking and talking until Elizabeth and Jasmine dropped Liberty over to Luke and Laura's because she was supposed to be singing that night. The others promised to meet them there later.
Song Credit: Title: Nobody knows it; Artist: Tony Rich
~*~
My J&R fans may recognize the song Francis sings. It was used on GH in a scene at Kelly's when Robin wanted Jason to dance with her but he refused. Then later, Lily taught Jason how to dance to it when they had dinner with them at the PH. So it's significant to Sonny too. I've always loved it. I think it's a sad kinda sweet sorta romantic song. It's not really being used in the context of J&R in this story that's why Jason doesn't react openly to it.
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Post by JRK Archiver on Feb 13, 2008 13:54:20 GMT -5
Songbird - Chapter 9
Wet Nymph
"I owe you a punch John boy." Francis says leaning in closer to be heard over the music as he took a long sip of his beer.
"Why?" he questions, "I haven't done anything to you." he pauses with a chuckle, "Recently that is."
"Remember about 7 or 8 months ago," Francis says and Johnny shakes his head no, "Well I do. See you set Em up with that creep Mark."
"Mark?" Elizabeth questions looking over at Emily, her voice raised slightly.
"I told you about him." Emily tells her, "Remember Octopus Boy."
Elizabeth laughs, "Oh yeah."
"Octopus?" Jason questions.
"Yeah. He was particularly grabby." Emily says with a smile, "At first."
"What did you do?" he asks.
"That one move you showed me." she smiles again.
Jason nods with a proud smile of his own.
"What move?" Elizabeth says looking from Jason to Emily.
"Could you stand up honey?" Emily asks Francis nicely.
He does.
"Now act like you're grabbing me."
"My pleasure." he smiles.
Doing as she asked, he tries to grab her. Emily lets him touch her arm but turns and twists his arm behind his back while pushing her foot into his knee and causing him to go down. She leans over and whispers something in his ear before letting him up.
"What did you tell him?" Johnny says.
"The best part of that move." Emily says. She looks at Francis, "Sorry honey. Want me to kiss it and make it better?"
"Later." he smirks.
"What did she say?" Johnny asks again.
Francis laughs, "She said," he says still laughing, "my brother is Jason Morgan and if you try that @#%$ again you'll regret it."
"That's my girl." Jason smiles.
"That's what Jason told me to say." Emily shrugs. "You'd be surprised what a mention of Jason's or even's Sonny's name will do."
"You're as bad as Sonny." Elizabeth laughs.
"What?" he says looking over at her.
"He wants me to teach Liberty how to say 'My Uncle is Sonny Corinthos' so she won't get picked on in class when she starts."
"I think it'll work better on dates." Emily observes. "Works for me."
"You tell guys Sonny is your Uncle." Johnny smirks.
"No, Jason usually suffices, but" Emily says. "I'll generally add in Sonny for good measure for the hardheaded ones."
"Like Mark." Francis grumbles.
"He still has issues with Mark." she tells them, "You did beat him up honey."
"There's no proof to that." he says automatically.
"That's my guy." she says giving him a kiss.
"Well I haven't been out on a date in forever so," Elizabeth shakes her head, "I won't need to use Jason or Sonny's name."
"What about me?" Sonny says coming up to the table.
"Nothing we were just throwing your name around." Elizabeth smiles.
"Talking about threatening guys again?" Alexis asks.
"Yep." Emily says.
"Ready Elizabeth?" Jasmine asks.
"Sure." she says getting up.
"Okay. Give me a minute and Jack'll announce you."
Elizabeth nods.
A few moments later we hear Jack say “Ladies and gentleman. The Wet Nymph is proud to present,” he pauses, “Miss Elizabeth Webber.”
The crowd applauds as Elizabeth steps on stage, “Thank you.” She says with a smile, at her slight nod, the band begins to play the opening notes.
At her intro point she begins to sing, her eyes drifting towards the table that housed her friends, no make that her family.
I know that lately,
things haven't been so good.
I've always said,
"that if I could ever help you, I would."
Ohhhh hooo i hooo. Ohhhh hooo i hooo.
I love you for a thousand years.
Ohhhh hooo i hooo. Ohhhh hooo i hooo.
I'm here to wipe away the tears.
I will be your friend,
until the end of time.
I will be your friend.
I'm here to make you smile.
When your falling apart I pick up each piece,
and build a wall around your dream.
The punches to you heart,
melt away when you never thought they'd heal.
"So trust in me!"
These are the words I tattoo on you.
If Hercules can't pick you up now,
then I really am true.
I will be your friend,
until the end of time.
I will be your friend.
I'm here to make you smile.
Ohhhh hooo i hooo. Ohhhh hooo i hooo.
I love you for a thousand years.
Ohhhh hooo i hooo. Ohhhh hooo i hooo.
I'm here to wipe away the tears.
"You've got so much to give,"
I'll tell you just when you need to know.
"Get out and live,"
I'll pick you up when your feeling low.
So here's my hand,
trust in me I really am true.
You've got to understand,
there's nothing I wouldn't do.
I will be your friend,
until the end of time.
I will be your friend.
I'm here to make you smile.
I will be your friend,
until the end of time.
I will be your friend.
I'm here to make you smile.
"You've got so much to give!"
"Get out and live!"
I will be your friend,
until the end of time.
I will be your friend.
I'm here to make you smile.
The punches to you heart...
Take my hand.
When you're falling apart...
You've got to understand.
She smiles at Emily's smirk and turns away from the mic with a smile. With another nod, the band begins to play the intro for the next song.
Somedays it goes your way
your on a road you can't explain
and then it all goes down the drain
Your cat's hit by a car
the ATM eats you card
you're wondering what changed from yesterday
Save me from- from going mental
Save me from just spinning out
Somedays are better than others
Somedays you just can't figure out
Somedays you can't explain
My best friend and me one night
Were drinking peace on crescent height[?]
Just like that we end up in a fight
like a yo-yo up and down
you're heading north
you end up south
Save me from- from going mental
Save me from just spinning out
Somedays are better than others
Somedays you just can't figure out
Somedays are better than others
you can't explain somedays away
someday
Save me from- from going mental
Save me from spinning out
Somedays are better
Somedays are never
Somedays- whatever
Somedays are better than lovers
Somedays you just can't figure out
Somedays are better than others
Somedays you just can't get out
Someday, yeah yeah
~*~
Another thunderous round of applause is heard when she finishes, "Thank you." she says stepping down attempting to make her way towards the table. Unfortunately she is stopped by an overzealous patron.
Watching from the table Jason frowns and watches as Elizabeth tries to nicely turn him down and go about her way. Shaking his head, he stands up and makes his way over the her, without a word to the others.
She sighs softly in relief when he puts his hand on the small of her back, he turns her slightly so they are face to face, "You were great tonight baby." he says in a deep, smooth voice, "As usual."
"Thanks." she says wrapping an arm around his waist and leaning into him.
"Get your own lady." the overzealous man says.
Jason raises his eyebrows at the man and then turns to Elizabeth, "He's funny."
"I didn't say anything funny buddy." the man says stepping closer to Jason.
Jason steps in front of Elizabeth and sees Johnny and Francis stand out of the corner of his eye, he shakes his head indicating that he would and could handle it but they still remain standing. "Obviously you don't realize who I am." Jason says his tone suddenly threatening and his eyes going cold. "Now my lady," he says looking over Elizabeth appreciatively, who playing the part licked her lips seductively, Jason winked, "told you no. Nicely." he paused, "I won't be as nice."
"Jason." Elizabeth says softly, "Just don't kill him okay. One guy a week is enough. Okay baby?" he nods reluctantly, "We really have to work on his jealous streak." she tells the man.
Jason cell phone rings and he smirks, "Morgan." he says in a clipped tone, "Nothing. Yeah okay. Bye."
"Business?" Elizabeth asks as she watched the man pale. "Hmm, it really does work." she thinks.
"I...I...I'm sorry Mr. Morgan sir." the guy stammers and then scrambles away from the "couple" as fast as he could.
Waiting until he was out of the club, Jason and Elizabeth turn to each other and laugh, "Who was that on the phone?" she asks.
"Jasmine." he says with a smile, "Telling me not to bust up her club."
Elizabeth nods, "Thanks for the help with that creep."
"No problem." he laughs, "It was fun actually."
"You just like intimidating people with your name." she says and leans in and gives him a kiss on the cheek and whispers, "But I know you're just a big softie."
"When it comes to certain people." he shrugs as they head back to the table, "You really were great tonight."
"Thanks." she smiles, her eyes lighting up.
"What was that all about?" Emily asks.
Elizabeth and Jason look at each other again as they take their seats and shrug.
"Nothing." Elizabeth says, "Just having a little fun."
"Fun?" Sonny prompts just as Elizabeth's cell phone rings.
"Hello." she says with a laugh, "Laura?" she says with a frown, "What's wrong?" she listens to a few minutes and gets up, grabbing her coat, "Okay. I'm on my way." she looks at the concerned faces of her friends, "Libby's sick." she looks at Em, "Can I get a ride to Laura's Em? I came with Jazzy."
Emily nods but it's Jason who stands, "I'll take you. It'll be faster on my bike." he says and she nods. He takes her hand and they hurry out of the club, "I hope you don't mind the bike." he states handing her the extra helmet.
"No." she says getting on and scooting back so he could get on.
"Hold on." he says starting the bike.
Elizabeth nods and wraps her arms around him tightly as they race off towards the Spencer house.
~*~
Song Credits:
1. I Will Be Your Friend by Sade
2. Somedays by Meredith Brooks
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Post by JRK Archiver on Feb 13, 2008 13:54:54 GMT -5
Songbird - Chapter 10
Jason had given Elizabeth his jacket before he pulled off so the wind wouldn't be too much for her. They pull up in front of Luke and Laura's house and Jason helps her off the bike.
"She'll be okay." Jason says as she stands there.
"It's just that she's never been sick before." Elizabeth tells him. "I don't know how to handle this." she looks at him and he sees the fear in her eyes, "I can't handle losing her too."
"You won't." Jason says gently but firmly.
Elizabeth nods and walks a few feet towards the house before turning around and going back over to Jason.
"Thank you." Jason nods and Elizabeth hesitates before she asks him, "Would you come with me? I know that we don't know each other that well but Liberty has really taken to you and everything and..."
Jason cuts her rambling off by taking her hand. "Yes." he says and Elizabeth nods.
Laura opens the door as soon as they step on the porch.
"I'm so sorry for calling you Elizabeth. I hope I didn't scare you it's just that Liberty has never been sick before."
"I know." Elizabeth responds, "How is she? What's wrong?"
"She's been lethargic and been running a fever. Cranky." Laura says. "She also said her throat was sore."
Elizabeth frowns. Liberty rarely gave them trouble.
"I'm going to go check on her." Elizabeth says going upstairs.
"Thanks for driving Elizabeth." Laura tells Jason.
Jason nods otherwise says nothing.
"You don't have to stay." Laura suggests.
"Elizabeth asked me too." Jason replies quietly.
Just then Elizabeth comes down carrying Liberty who was crying. Elizabeth's eyes are frantic with worry and concern. "She's burning up. We have to get her to GH."
They all hustle out and Jason gets on his bike, pulling out his cell phone on the way.
"Em?" he says straddling his bike, "We're heading to GH with Liberty."
"Okay. We'll meet you guys there." Emily says before hanging up.
~*~
General Hospital - 3rd floor waiting area
It's takes the gang about 30 minutes to get to GH. They see Luke pacing frantically and Laura and Lulu sitting worriedly, but Jason was no where to be seen.
"Laura." Jasmine, Alexis and Emily call to her at the same time rushing over to where she was sitting.
"How's Libby?" Jasmine asks.
"The doctor's in with her and Elizabeth now." Laura replies, her voice low. "They're trying to decide what it could be."
"Forget deciding." Luke says still pacing, "They should figure out what's wrong with babygirl."
"They will Luke." Laura says looking over at him briefly.
"Have you seen Jason?" Sonny asks.
"He split shortly after the docs went in with Elizabeth and Liberty." Luke replies stopping his pacing.
"I'll go." Johnny tells them.
~*~
GH Chapel
As he thought, Johnny finds Jason in the chapel. Not praying, just sitting.
"Hey." Johnny says in a quiet voice, sitting down.
"Hey." Jason responds.
"Everything okay?"
"Yeah." Jason responds.
There is a long silence between them.
"It's been a while." Jason says finally.
"Jase..."
"I'm not sitting here missing her. But I'm just thinking. It just hit me. I only have one regret when it comes to Robin and this hospital is it. I haven't been back since she died. She wanted to die at home but I couldn't give that to her."
"You tried Jason." Johnny tells him.
"Not hard enough." he sighs, "I should have did more. Did it faster. She shouldn't have died here."
"I'm sure Robin understands. I'm sure she's not mad at you. You did your best."
"Maybe it was too soon to come back." Jason says quietly.
"And do what?" Johnny says his voice raising slightly, "Run for the rest of your life. The rest of ours? What about us? Your friends and family. You're not the only one who lost someone you loved and cared about." Johnny sighs and runs a hand over his face, "I know what she meant to you. She was your wife. But..."
"But what?"
"But I watched Robin grow up. I watched her with Stone and then with you and I saw how much she loved you. She wouldn't want you to be sitting here feeling bad."
"It's not that." Jason says after a few moments, "Being here just makes me feel so helpless."
"You're only helpless if you do nothing." Johnny tells him.
"Robin used to say that." Jason says with a sad smile.
"I know." Johnny stands, "Lets go back and see if there's any word on Liberty."
Jason nods and stands, his eyes go to the wooden cross on the wall. And Jason prayed for the first time in years. Please let Liberty be alright. Please give Elizabeth the strength to deal with this and the knowledge that she has people to lean on. Amen.
~*~
Waiting Area
Elizabeth comes up to Jason and Johnny just as they round the corner.
Looking at Jason, she says, "I was just about to come looking for you."
"Is everything okay?" Jason asks concerned putting a hand on her arm.
Johnny excuses himself to go wait with the others.
"They think that it's either Roseola or Coxsackie." she says still trying to process what the doctor told her.
"That's good then." Jason says, "Both are treatable."
Elizabeth frowns at him slightly.
"But they said that the Coxsackie may lead to menginitis."
"In extremely rare cases." Jason tells her, "And we have to remember that Liberty has two very determined guardians watching her."
"Lucky and Robin." Elizabeth whispers with a nod.
"That's right." Jason says.
Elizabeth begins to withdraw and Jason says, "This is not your fault." he steps closer to her, "Childhood illnesses are common. This is not your fault." he says again firmly.
"How do you know all this?" Elizabeth asks.
"Robin studied to be a peditrician and I helped her study." Jason shrugs, "Plus a little left over Jason Quartermaine knowledge. It only comes out when I need it."
"Thank you." Elizabeth says stepping forward and hugging him.
Neither of them are aware of the looks that they are getting from the others or the smiles that are on the faces of their significant others. Who were hovering in the background.
"Everythings going to be okay." Jason says stepping back a bit shyly.
"I actually believe it when you say that." Elizabeth says. "Do you want to come with me to check on Liberty?"
Jason nods and Elizabeth takes his hand and they go back to Liberty's room where Laura is sitting with her.
~*~
Songbird - Chapter 11
GH - Pediatrics - Room 374
Elizabeth sat quietly by Liberty's bedside, watching her sleep restlessly. She got up with a sigh and went over to the window, staring out of it unseeingly.
"Why is this happening now?" she wonders aloud.
"Everything is going to be okay." Laura says, "She has Lucky looking out for her."
"And Robin too." Elizabeth says turning to look at Jason.
Laura frowns and looks over at Jason who had been sitting on the other side of Liberty's bed. He looked up at the mention of Robin's name and nods.
"You don't have to stay." Elizabeth says moving back over to the chair.
"We really appreciate your help..." Laura begins but Elizabeth cuts her off.
"I'm sorry Laura." Elizabeth says, "I was talking to you. It's late and you have to get up for work and you spent so much time with her earlier. We can handle it."
"I'm fine Elizabeth." Laura replies.
"I know and I'm not trying to be rude or anything. It's just that there's no point in all of us being up all night. Go home. Get some rest." she says gently.
Laura cuts her eyes at Jason and then turns to Elizabeth.
Jason stands just as a doctor comes in, "I'll be outside." he says figuring Elizabeth and Laura were in need of some privacy. He looks up at the doctor and smiles slightly, "Dr. Campbell."
"Actually it's Dr. Cassadine now." Gia Campbell Cassadine says with a smile and gives Jason a hug, "Good to see you." she smiles at Elizabeth, "I didn't realize that you and Elizabeth were friends."
Elizabeth and Jason exchange glances and shrug.
"Yeah." was all Jason said before asking, "Are you here seeing a patient?"
"No. Elizabeth is sorta my sister in law so I just came to check on her and Liberty."
"We're fine." Elizabeth says speaking up for the first time.
"Good to see you again Gia." Jason says, "Excuse me." he says exiting without a word to anyone else.
Elizabeth rounds on Laura, "Look. I appreciate your help." she says, "But I don't appreciate how you treated Jason."
"What's wrong with Jason?" Gia asks sitting down in the chair Jason had vacated. "He's always been nice to me." she shrugs.
"Me too." Elizabeth smiles slightly.
"I think he's dangerous." Laura says.
"Lucky wasn't exactly safe either. And I loved him. I still do but he had a lot of Luke in him. That adventurous dangerous side. And just for the record," she says her voice raising slightly, "Jason and I are friends. Not that it's any of your business, but Jason and I are just friends. Should it go any further," she pauses, "I'll let you know."
Laura looks at Elizabeth with a huff and then storms out. Everyone in the waiting room, stood stunned.
Jasmine, Alexis and Emily go into the room after Laura leaves.
"So is there a chance of it going further?" Gia asks the question that's been on everyone's mind.
"Huh?" Elizabeth said slightly confused. She didn't realize what she had said.
"Um. Liz." Jasmine said, "You just told Laura that you'd let her know if it went any further."
"Oh God." Liz groans, "Tell me Jason didn't hear that?"
"No." Emily says, "But the question is do you want it to go any further."
"Em." Elizabeth says.
"Elizabeth." Emily mocks, then turns serious, "This is my brother we're talking about. I have a right to know."
"Jason and I barely know each other. I can't answer that." she sighs.
"Try." Alexis prompts.
"Yeah try." Gia says.
"All I can say is that it'll be nice to get to know him better. For some reason we have a connection, maybe it's Lucky and Robin. I don't know. but we're friends. I think." she pauses and looks at her friends, "Let's just leave it at that."
"Okay." Gia says, "But one small thing." Elizabeth nods and Gia continues, "Laura is used to thinking about you as Lucky's fiancee or Liberty's mom. It's going to be hard for her to see you move on. Past Lucky."
"But I'm not moving past Lucky. I could never do that. He will always be a part of me. He's part of Liberty."
"I know." Gia agrees, "But you know how Laura is with her sons."
Everyone nods in agreement.
"I just want you to be careful. Personally, I think it'll be good for you to start dating."
Elizabeth laughs at that, "You just don't want to sit through any more of those boring dinners with Nik and his business associates that he keeps trying to fix me up with."
"Yup." Gia laughs and the others join her.
~*~
Park
"You okay Jason?" Sonny asks coming up to him with Francis and Johnny close behind.
"Yeah." Jason says.
"Why'd you leave?"
Jason shrugs and tilts his head back, studying the sky. After a few moments of silence, he says, "Would you just stop?" he says slightly frustrated.
"Stop what?" Francis asks curiously.
"Worrying about me. All of you." Jason says evenly. "I'm not going to disappear again. It was time to come home. I'm here. It's just going to take me a moment to adjust." he pauses, "Okay?"
"We understand man." Johnny says, "We just want you to be happy."
"Right now happy's a long shot."
"Why?" Sonny asks. "Robin wouldn't want you like this."
Jason's eyes grow cold as he glares at Sonny.
~*~
On a cloud
"Don't push him Sonny." Robin says, "He's not ready." she thinks sitting on a cloud watching the scene with Lucky.
"Corinthos is going to screw everything up." Lucky grumbles.
"He means well." Robin offers, "But you're right we have to stop him."
"Well we could always..." Lucky trails off.
"Last time we did that, we got in trouble." she reminds him.
"But it'll stop him." Lucky reminds her.
"Fine. Just make sure nobody gets hurt." Robin calls after Lucky after he disappears.
"Okay." Lucky's voice could be heard saying.
~*~
A few moments later - Park
Marcus Taggert comes up to Sonny with a sly grin, "Sonny Corinthos." he says with a sneer, "You are under arrest."
"For what?" Sonny sighs.
"Attempted murder. Arson." Taggert says, "And that's just for starts." He cuffs Sonny as he begins to read him his Miranda rights. "We already have your goon Max down at the station."
Sonny shakes his head, "You're fishing Detective."
"We'll see." Taggert says. "Let's go." he says pulling Sonny away.
"Get Alexis for me." Sonny calls out following Taggert.
Johnny, Jason and Francis looked at each other with frowns.
"That was strange." Johnny remarks.
"Yeah. What are the chances that Taggert would suddenly show up just when Sonny's about to stick his foot in it?" Francis asks.
Jason just looks up and sighs, "Let's go tell Alexis." he says.
"She's going to have a field day with this one." Francis laughs.
~*~
Waiting Area
"Where's Sonny?" Alexis demands as the trio re-enters the waiting area.
"Taggert." was all they said.
Alexis groans and grabs her purse, "When is that man ever going to give up." she stops in and says a quick bye to Elizabeth who had just came out.
"Thanks for stopping by." Elizabeth calls after her. She turns to her family of friends, "You guys can go home. No use of all of us being up all night. I'll be fine here." she saw them hesitate. "Really."
They all nod and leave hesitantly, making sure that Elizabeth knew to call them if she needed them.
"Jason?" she calls as he turns to follow the others.
He turns wordlessly to her.
"Stay?" she says her voice soft.
The others pause by the elevator, looking back towards where Jason stood a few feet from Elizabeth.
They saw him nod slightly and walk back over to her. The elevator came and they missed Elizabeth's grateful look and Jason's half smile. But the two guardians in the room with Liberty didn't, they smiled at each other, happy that their plan was coming together.
~*~
I know that I'm picking on Max alot. But I don't like him, nothing against the actor who plays him. He's just no Johnny.
Chapter 12
Lucky and Robin's Cloud
"What now?" Lucky asks Robin.
"We just have to sit and watch and nudge if necessary." she tells him.
"Yes nudge." she turns back to the scene below them. "Ssh."
~*~
Liberty's Hospital Room -
Jason comes back and hands Elizabeth a cup of coffee.
"Sorry." he says with a shrug. "This was all they had." taking a sip of the coffee he frowns, "They still haven't improved the coffee yet."
"Maybe you and Sonny should be their supplier." she says. She looks over at Liberty who seemed to be resting more comfortably. "Thanks for staying."
"Actually, I should probably be thanking you."
"Why?" she frowns looking over at him, "I didn't do anything."
"You saved me from the inevitable fight with Em. She'd want me to stay with her."
"And you'd want to go back to your place."
"Not really." he said softly.
"It's hard isn't it." she says quietly.
"A bit. They mean well but they don't understand. Not really." Jason sighs, "Sonny does in a way but..."
"It's not the same." Elizabeth finishes for him.
"Yeah."
There's a small ackward silence.
"I'm sorry." Jason says finally.
"For what?" she questioins looking at him strangely.
"I didn't mean to bring up sad memories."
"You didn't." she admits, "Laura did."
"Yeah." he nods, "She wasn't too happy with me being here." he pauses, "I can leave if you want, I don't want to cause any problems for you."
"#1, I want you to stay. #2, I don't care what Laura thinks right now. #3, Do you ever get tired of it?"
"Of what?"
"The double standard. It's like they're pushing me to move on but when I do they get all wierded out. I mean it's like I can't be friends with you. I mean, it's not like you're moving on with me or me with you or anything like that. You just came home and it's not like you said you wanted to move on or go out or anything. You're still in love with Robin. Just like I love Lucky." she rambles.
"I understand." Jason says, "And yes. I do get tired of it." he looks intently at her, "But it is time to go forward. I feel like I've been in a holding pattern for so long. And I do love Robin. I always will, but it's time."
"It's funny. I feel the same way. I've never been able to quite put it into words before." she looks at him earnestly, "Thanks."
They spent the rest of the evening talking about nothing in particular. Jason's traveling. Elizabeth's decision to sing at the Wet Nymph. Liberty. And even Lucky and Robin.
~*~
A Few Days Later - Late Morning
"Hi." Jason says peaking his head into Liberty's room. "I see someone's feeling better."
"Pretty eyes." Liberty calls happily, holding her arms out to him.
Jason obliges and gives her a hug.
"You come read to me?"
"If your mom doesn't mind." he says looking over at Elizbeth.
"By all means." Elizabeth laughs, "I think she has a crush on you."
"Whats crush?" Liberty asks innocently.
"It means you like Jason." Elizabeth explains.
"Oh." the little girl nods, "I do." she looks over at Jason. "Please. Read."
Elizabeth hands Jason the book and he gently takes Liberty in his arms and settles in the chair with her. He glances at the cover, The Complete Tales of Winnie-the-Pooh takes Elizabeth bookmark out.
"She hates the children books." she explains.
Jason nods, his voice is gentle and soft as he begins to read.
Jason is just laying the book down and about to put Liberty back in bed when Laura comes in. Elizabeth had slipped out a few moments earlier to get a bite from the cafeteria.
"What are you doing here?" Laura sneers loudly startling Liberty.
"Pretty eyes?" Liberty says.
"Yes. It's me Libby. It's okay."
"'Kay." she yawns. "Nice stowee." she says sleepily before sticking her thumb in her mouth.
Jason smiles and lays her down in the bed and she's asleep before he pulls the covers up over her. He stands, watching her for a few moments before escorting Laura out of the room so as not to disturb Liberty.
~*~
Lucky and Robin's Cloud
"Great." Lucky mutters. "Now my mom is going to screw things up."
"She means well." Robin says.
"Yeah well." Lucky replies. He shakes his head in disgust. "What should we do?"
"Let's wait and see how they handle it." Robin says, "If it doesn't work, we'll go to a higher source."
Lucky nods and turns his focus back on the scene below.
~*~
Waiting Area
"What were you doing to my granddaughter?" Laura accuses loudly.
"Keep it down." Jason says rather calmly, "Liberty's trying to sleep and we are in a hospital." he pauses, "And I wasn't doing anything to Liberty. I was reading to her, like she wanted."
"Where's Elizabeth?" Laura questioned, "What have you done with her?"
"Nothing." Jason shrugs. "She left to get a few moments to herself. She's been here, in that room virtually non-stop since Liberty was brought in."
"I don't like you and I don't want you around Liberty. Or Elizabeth." Laura tells him.
"That's enough." Elizabeth says coming up on the scene and having heard Laura's last sentence. "Jason is my friend. I like him. Liberty likes him. And no one is going to tell him to stay away from me but me. Which I'm not doing." Elizabeth explains turning to Jason. "He's been a big help these past few days."
"So what are you saying?" Laura asks.
"You are welcome to visit and see Libby anytime, but now with that attitude." Elizabeth says. "Jason's and my relationship is not any of your business. It's between us."
"So you have a relationship?"
Elizabeth blows out a breath.
Jason glances at the clock on the wall and sees the time. He nods to it and then towards the hallway. Elizabeth nods.
"See?" Laura says after he had left, "Jason couldn't even stay to face the music. He left you to do it. Alone." Laura pauses, "He's dangerous Elizabeth."
"Actually he has an appointment that he can't miss."
"Probably to go kill someone for Sonny."
"That's enough." Elizabeth yells. "You know nothing about him."
"And you do?"
"I know enough. I know he gives generously to AIDS and HIV research and charities. I know that he volunteers in the pediatric AIDS wing. I know that he loved his wife and still does. I know that he's a good friend and comfort and has been there for me. I know that he understands what it's like to lose someone you love. The person you count on to help you get through the day and keep you sane." Elizabeth says heatedly. She blows out a breath, "I think it's time for you to leave." she turns to Liberty's room and sees the little girl sleeping peacefully. Oblivious to her grandmother's rantings, "Libby's asleep."
"I will not be kept from Lucky's child."
"And I'm not saying you will be. Just that my daughter, Liberty, is asleep. Come back later."
Elizabeth turns and walks into the room. She sits down with a sigh, resting her head on the bed, crying softly. "I can't believe she did that." she thinks.
Ten minutes later, feeling a hand on her shoulder, she looks up. Surprised. "I thought you were reading to the kids."
"I was." Jason says honestly, "But I cut it short."
"You didn't have to do that." she says.
"I thought you might need a friend." he admits. "After what Laura said..." he trails off kneeling beside her.
"Thanks." she says leaning her head on his shoulder. "I thought you might need a friend." he admits. "After what Laura said..." he trails off kneeling beside her.
After a few moments, she sits up and scouts back in the chair. "I'm sorry."
"Don't be. It's okay. You should never be sorry when it comes to your feelings." Jason says standing up.
"I'm not." Elizabeth says. "I'm just sorry that she lashed out at you."
"I can handle it. I've handled worse." he informs her.
"But you shouldn't have too."
"She's worried. She misses Lucky. I do have a dangerous life Elizabeth."
"Maybe I like danger." she says looking up into his eyes. "But missing Lucky is no excuse. I do too." she admits. "But it's time. I can't keep my life on hold for her or anyone else."
"And you shouldn't." Jason says. "It's important to live your life the way you want too."
"Now I just have to do it." Elizabeth says.
"We both do." Jason says looking away from her eyes.
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Post by JRK Archiver on Feb 13, 2008 13:57:14 GMT -5
Chapter 13
Somewhere on a cloud
Robin and Lucky are sitting on a cloud watching their loved ones, sleep. Well some of them were sleeping.
~*~
GH - Libby's Room
Elizabeth is sitting in a chair by Libby's bed. She's sleeping and her head is resting on the bed, her hand clinging to Liberty's.
We see her startle awake, looking around the room in a daze before reality sets in.
Getting up, she stretches, smoothing the covers over Liberty she goes to the window and stares out. Her mind was on Liberty of course, but it was also on Jason. She had finally convinced him to go home. More for his benefit than hers.
She wasn't used to the feelings that he was stirring inside her. And it made her uneasy, she didn't know how to handle them.
"Help me Lucky. Help me do the right thing for Libby." she said looking up knowing that he was watching over her and their daughter.
~*~
Jason and Robin's Old House - Back Deck
Jason is up on the deck, watching the sky and stars, a beer sits sweating on the table next to him.
He keeps going over the events of the day in his head. His mind trying to grasp the fact he hadn't missed Robin as much as he usually did. He had had fun with Elizabeth. She was the only woman besides Robin, that he felt a connection to so quickly. And it scared him, he knew Robin wanted him to move on, but he didn't know how without feeling like he was betraying her memory and their marriage, what they had meant to each other.
"Robin." he sighed, "I can't do this alone. I need your help. Show me the right way to go. Show me what to do."
~*~
Somewhere on a cloud
"Time to call in the big guns?" Lucky asked
"No." Robin shakes her head, "Let's put them on alert though. They have as much vested in this as we do."
~*~
Libby's Hospital Room
Elizabeth looks over surprised when Luke comes in.
"It's late Luke. You should be sleeping. What are you doing here?" she asked going over to him, "Is everything okay?"
"Yes. I just wanted to check up on you and babygirl. And apologize, Laura was out of line. She shouldn't have done or said what she said."
"How do you know what she said?" Elizabeth asked curiously.
"Amy." Luke revealed.
"Ah." Elizabeth nods, "It's okay. She means well. I know where she was coming from." she paused, "She misses Lucky. We all do. But I can't be in mourning forever. I can't put my life on hold cause it please Laura." she sighed, "Now I love Laura, but Lucky's not coming back."
"I know." Luke says sadly, remorsefully. He looks up studying her face, "What's going on with you and Morgan?"
"I don't know. We're friends I guess." Elizabeth shrugged going back to the window.
"I like Morgan Elizabeth. He was good to Little Scorpio but," he paused, "Be careful. I don't want to see you get hurt."
"I'm always careful Luke. I won't let anything happen to Liberty or me."
"I know." he said kissing her on the top of the head, "Try and get some rest. I'll come back to check on you later."
~*~
A week later
Liberty was finally going home and Elizabeth had Jason to drive her. They had gotten closer in the last week, instead of their usual shrug when someone asked if they were friends it was answered with a firm yes.
"Ready?" Jason says leaning against the doorway of Liberty's room.
"Yes." Elizabeth says with a rush, "The doctors just came with her release papers." she looks at the flowers and stuffed animals that Liberty had received. "Libby's keeping the one's on the tray table, the rest are going to the pediatric wing."
Jason nods, "I think we're going to need a few pair of extra hands for this."
"Nah." she laughs then surveys the room again, "Okay maybe one or two."
"I help." Libby says from her spot on the bed.
Jason smiles at the little girl, "Want to help carry them all?"
She nods eagerly.
"Okay. I'll be right back." Jason leaves and comes back with a wheelchair, he lifts Liberty gently from the bed and into the chair and then begins to pile the ones for the pediatric wing in the chair with her.
She laughs as he piles them on top of her causing Elizabeth to smile as she stood back and watched.
~*~
Elizabeth's House
"I want to thank you again for all your help Jason." she said as they sat on the couch in her living room.
"For the fifth time Elizabeth, stop thanking me. I didn't do anything. I was glad to help." he paused, "It made the children smile, that's all the thanks I need. They don't have a lot to smile about some days."
"It must be hard on them and their parents." Elizabeth observed, her tone thoughtful.
"Can I ask you something?" Jason says seriously.
Elizabeth nods, waiting.
"I was wondering," he sighed, "if since Libby is feeling better," he paused hesitating. He closed his eyes briefly and took a deep breath, "if you both would like to go out on our, my boat this weekend." There, he thought with a sigh. I did it. I hope she says yes.
Elizabeth smiles gently, "Yes. I would like that."
Chapter 14
Early Afternoon - Saturday
Jason and Elizabeth are sitting on the deck of the boat. Elizabeth is drying Libby off from her swim lesson with Pretty Eyes. Jason is toweling his hair dry as water drips down his muscular chest.
From a distance, a camera shutter clicks getting even more pictures of the day Jason and Elizabeth spent together.
"I hungry momma." Libby says.
"You just got out of the water Libby. I think we should wait."
"Isn't that before you swim you have to wait to go in if you just ate?" Jason asked his face showing his confusion.
Elizabeth laughed, "I think you're right." she smiled slightly at him. "Did you have any trouble getting the basket I ordered from Kelly's?"
Jason looked away from her eyes briefly, "No."
"Did something happen Jason?" Elizabeth's tone was low, concerned as she tilted her head to study him.
He sighed, "No." he scooped Libby up into his arms and onto his shoulders, "Let's eat." he said leading the way down to the lower level and the small galley/dining area.
The camera snapped another round of pictures.
"Duck." he said looking up at Libby briefly before going down the stairwell.
She laughed, holding on tightly to his neck.
~*~
A Little While Later
Elizabeth insisted Libby lay down in the master suite after eating and she sat at the table watching Jason clean up. She had offered to help but he refused, saying she was a guest.
"Jason." Elizabeth said pausing, "What happened at Kelly's?"
"I ran into Bobbie." he sighed, turning around and finally looking at her he joined her on the couch. "First, she was all nice when I first came in. How was I doing? That sort of thing."
Elizabeth nods, but otherwise said nothing.
"Then she found out about me getting the basket for you, for us. And she started in on I hope I know what I was doing. Elizabeth has been through alot. She didn't want to see you get hurt. Was it too soon after Robin? After being back." he gets up with a sigh, going back to the countes, "I swear it's like half this town wants me alone and half wants me to move on."
"Tell me about it." she agreed getting up and going to stand at the counter next to him. Her back was against the counter as he faced forward washing the few remaining dishes.
"Do you get that alot?" he asked his voice getting quiet.
"Yeah. Emily and Jazz are usually okay about it. Nikolas can be a bit pushy. And well most of the Spencers, save Luke, think I should be in mourning for Lucky forever."
"Yeah. He stopped by my house the other night and warned me about hurting you." he turned so his hip was leaning against the counter, "Course he did that with Robin too."
Elizabeth smiled and laughed at that.
"I hope," he paused, "I hope I don't make you uncomfortable mentioning her."
"No. God no Jason." she placed a hand on his arm slightly taken aback by the spark she felt. "I would think it strange if you didn't talk about Robin. And I think I mention Lucky probably just as much if not more. You loved Robin, she was your wife. It's only natural that you would talk about her, want to share your memories and her."
He smiled, taking her hand and leading her back up to the deck where they sat with the small monitor that Elizabeth had brought with her.
Another picture was captured as hand in hand, they walked the deck and sat down on the chairs, watching the skyline and waves.
Jason is the first to break the silence, "I like you Elizabeth. And I haven't felt this way in a while, but there is something you should know. About me, about Robin."
"What?" she whispered concerned.
"Robin was HIV positive. She later died of pnuemonia with aids related complications."
Elizabeth nods, waiting for him to finish. When he didn't she took his hand gently in hers, "I know that Jason."
Another picture was snapped.
"I've been tested since her death and during our life together. Because of Robin, she wanted me too but it didn't matter to me. I never saw it as a risk, loving her or being with her."
Elizabeth nods, "It sounds like she loved you very much."
Jason shrugged slightly, "I still get tested, even now, I'm scheduled for another one in two months."
"Okay." Elizabeth nods, "Since we're being honest, there's something you should know."
Jason looked at her, his eyes soft and their hands still together.
Another picture taken.
"When I was 15, I was raped. I still get a yearly HIV test done, just in case."
"I'm sorry." Jason said quietly. "Was he caught? The person who did that too you. Did they catch him?"
"Yes. On unrelated charges." she sighed. "And you don't have to be sorry. I just wanted you to know, in case, well, in case things go further for us. If we start to be more than just friends and take it to the next level, not that I'm saying we are or we're not. Not that I'm trying to pressure you."
Jason chuckled, "It's okay. I know what you meant."
She smiled and relaxed. "I'm going to get in the water while it's still nice, before the sun goes down."
"What about Libby?" Jason asked.
"She should sleep for at least another half an hour. I won't be in long."
"What about that whole swimming after you eat rule?" he asked.
Elizabeth shrugged, standing up and shimmying out of her shorts and tank top that was covering her blue takini. "I guess you'll just have to join me to keep me safe." she said diving into the water.
Another picture taken.
Jason stood watching her for a moment before stripping off his t-shirt and joining her in the water.
More pictures taken.
They played and frolicked in the water. Jason dived under, tugging on her foot and pulling her down.
When Elizabeth resurfaced, they were mere inches apart.
Another picture snapped.
Jason lowered his mouth to hers, and their lips met in a wet, warm, gentle kiss.
Another picture snapped.
Chapter 15
On a Cloud
Lucky looks at Robin and smiled, "It's working."
"Yes." She said her face lighting up with a smile. But her focus turned towards the trees, "But I'm worried about that."
Lucky leans forward slightly, spying the photographer perched, hidden in the trees. He shakes his head. "When are they ever going to get a break?"
Robin looked at him surprised, "You're not mad. Or changing your mind."
"I'm not my mom Robin." Lucky laughed. "And it's written in the stars for them to be joined together. He'll protect her with his life. And she with his."
Robin nodded, "What are we going to do?"
"You know we can't interfere?" he reminded her.
Robin sends him a doubtful look.
"Well no more than usual. We're already on probation." Lucky laughed slightly.
~*~
Jason pulls back.
Elizabeth covers her mouth with her hand.
"I'm sorry." Jason says. "I shouldn't have done that." He said more to himself than to her. His heart had jumped slightly when their lips met and he didn't know what that meant. Somehow he knew that Robin wasn't mad that he had kissed Elizabeth, he could actually picture her sitting on a cloud and smiling.
"I didn't mind Jason." Elizabeth said softly, "Actually I enjoyed it." then claps her hand over her mouth. I can't believe I just admitted that to him.
Jason smiled and nodded. Resisting the urge to kiss her again out of want and overactive and suddenly re-awakened hormones.
"I'm going to go check on Libby." Elizabeth said going over to the steps. She begins to climb when an shot rings out from the docks.
Jason grabs Elizabeth from the ladder, pulling her into the water with him. They tread his body shielding hers, them standing close to together by the ladder.
Elizabeth hears Libby begin to wake up over the monitor.
"Oh my God Jason. Libby." she begins to panic, "We can't let her come out here."
Jason nods, a plan forming in her mind. "You're going to have to move with me. Mimic my movements, I'll cover you as we climb the ladder."
"What about you?" she whispers. "What if you get shot?" she asked beginning to worry about him as well.
"I'll be fine. I've been shot at before." he tells her.
~*~
On a cloud
Lucky and Robin look at each other and then back at the couple in the water.
"We have to help them." Robin and Lucky say at the same time, minds made up.
Robin looks at Lucky, "Okay. You cover them and I'll handle the shooter."
Lucky nods and goes over towards the boat.
~*~
"It's okay Elizabeth. Tell Jason to move now." Lucky whispers near her ear when he sees Robin in place.
"We can move now." Elizabeth whispers. "Lucky says to go now."
"Okay." Jason said, not one to argue with an angel, ghost, spirit. Well whatever Lucky was.
They swiftly climb the ladder and Lucky shields them as Robin stands in front of the shooter, her hand in front of the gun as she blocks his view.
When Jason and Elizabeth are safely in the cabin she moves and rejoins Lucky on the cloud.
~*~
"Who was that?" Lucky asked. "Did you recognize him? One of Jason or Sonny's enemies?"
"No." Robin shakes her head, "What about you? From your days on the run?"
"No."
"The question you should be asking..." Steve Hardy says suddenly appearing next to Robin.
"Is who sent him and why?" Susan Moore finished for him appearing on the opposite side of Lucky.
"Do you know?" Robin asked.
"Yes." Steve nods.
"Will you tell us?" Lucky asked.
"No." Susan said, "You know, you just don't want to admit it."
~*~
"What happened Jason?" Elizabeth asked sitting on the couch holding onto Libby and rocking her slightly.
"I don't know." he admitted blowing out a breath. He goes to her side, sitting on the table in front of her, his hand on her knee he looked directly in her eyes, "I'm sorry." he shook his head, "I..."
Elizabeth nodded, "It's not okay. But I understand. I don't know." she shook her head, "I'm not going to say that I wasn't scared. But I know what you do." she paused, "Are you in danger?"
"No." Jason frowned standing up, "Business has been quiet." He pulled out his cell phone, "Meet me at the docks. We have a problem." he said immediately into the phone.
"I thought you were on a date with Elizabeth." Johnny O'Brien said.
"I told you it's not a date. I don't think." he sighed frustrated, "Look just meet me at the docks and bring Sonny and Francis with you."
"What happened?" Johnny asked already halfway out the door.
"It started raining."
"Raining?" Johnny said the question evident, his gut tightening as he knew where Jason was headed with the conversation.
"Yeah. Bullets." he said even though he knew Johnny knew what he had meant. Jason hung up and turned towards Elizabeth, "I'm sorry. I never meant to put you in danger. We'll be back on shore soon." he said heading towards the bridge to get them back to shore.
"Jason?" Elizabeth called to him.
"It's okay Elizabeth." he said shaking his head and quickening his step.
Jason Morgan looked the picture of a boat captain with his sun-kissed blonde hair and slightly tanned skin. But his hands gripped the wheel tighter than normal, his blue eyes were the color of ice and just as hard and cold and their was a huge knot in the pit of his stomach.
~*~
A/N: Angels, guardians, guides can only interfere in life and death situations. That is why Lucky and Robin got involved.
Chapter 16
Jason helps Elizabeth down the steps and then hands Liberty to her. They are immediately surrounded by Johnny, Sonny and Francis.
"You okay?" Johnny asks Elizabeth first.
She nods and smiles slightly, "Yeah. Hi guys." she said walking slightly ahead.
They nod in response.
"What happened?" Sonny demands once she is a bit away.
"Not here. Not now." Jason said, "I just need the boat looked after and the docks swept. We'll meet back at my house in a hour. I want to take Elizabeth and Libby home first."
The men nodded, exchanged cautiously glances. They knew the look in Jason's eyes and the tone in his voice all to well.
"Okay." Francis said already doing a superficial scan of the area. "Tell us what happened?"
Jason sighed, running a hand through his hair. "We were in the water. I had just." he trailed off, "And next thing I know we were being shot at. If it hadn't been for." he sighed. "Look. I'm going to take Elizabeth home and then go home. I'll meet you there."
"Damn it." Sonny said through clenched teeth as he watched his friend get into his car.
"Exactly." Johnny agreed. He sighed, "All right let's get this done with cause if this is leading where I think it's leading we're in for a long ride."
~*~
Jason stood quietly, his hands stuffed into his back pockets.
Elizabeth opened the door and waited for Libby to go inside before turning to Jason. "Did you want to come inside?"
"I should get to the house." He said turning to leave.
"Jason?" she called.
He turned towards her wordlessly.
Elizabeth steps towards him, grabbing onto his shirt she pulls him towards her and kisses him softly on the lips. "Everything is going to be okay. You'll figure it out."
He sighed, "I'm sorry. If I had known, or even thought that something could have happened to you or to Libby," he paused shaking his head, "I'm sorry. I never meant to put you or your daughter in danger."
"You didn't. We're fine." She takes his hand giving it a light squeeze.
"Thank you." He paused and then added, "For understanding."
"I'm just telling the truth. I know what you do Jason. If I was scared or worried I wouldn't have gone out with you and I definitely wouldn't have brought Libby." She paused, sitting down on the front steps and motioning for him to do the same, "I like you. I think we made a good connection. And I trust that you will keep us safe. All I ask is one thing."
Jason nodded, looking at her.
"Don't lie to me. And don't try to control me. I can take care of myself and Libby."
"Isn't that two things?" he said allowing a slight smile.
She smiled and nodded, taking her hair behind her ear, "Are you going to be okay?"
"Yeah. I just have to figure this all out."
She held her tongue, not wanting to know if he was talking about what was developing between them or the incident.
"Will you call me later?"
"Yeah."
~*~
Jason's House
"What did you find out?" Jason asked as soon as the guys enter.
"Is Elizabeth okay?" Sonny asked.
"Yeah. She's fine and so is Libby." He nodded, "Did you find anything?"
"Not much." Francis said going in to get a beer.
"Where'd that come from?" Jason frowned.
"Em and Jasmine stocked up while you were on your date." Johnny said with a shrug, "Just in case you wanted to bring her back here."
"First of all, it wasn't a date. And second of all, if it was it was just the first date." Jason said. "I think I'm going to have to get better security and have a talk with my little sister." He said throwing a glare at Francis.
"What did I do now?" Francis groaned.
"I'd say the fact you were sleeping with his little sister." Sonny said.
"Can we get down to business?" Jason said standing up, "Elizabeth and I were shot at today. And if it wasn't for Lucky and Robin me, her or possibly even Libby would have a bullet hole in them? That is not acceptable." He growled.
"Jason." Johnny said calmly, "We didn't find anything. There was a few casings but they were for blanks."
"And business has been quiet. A little unusual but I wasn't going to complain. Quiet is good."
"Quiet can be deadly." Jason said his quiet tone echoing through the room.
"I have a call in to my dad and Justin. See if they've heard anything worthwhile." Johnny said.
Jason gives him an appreciative nod, "Thanks".
"I appreciate that Johnny." Sonny said, "And Francis is right business has been quiet, no more than the usual rumblings." he paused, "What were you doing when you got shot at?" Sonny asked.
"Kissing." Jason mumbled in a low tone.
"Uh repeat that please." Johnny said biting back a smirk.
"We were kissing. Or had just kissed. Alright."
"That explains it." Johnny said.
"Explains what?" Jason growled.
"The pissy mood you're in." he shot back.
"Alright calm down both of you." Sonny orders, "Okay. Obviously we have a problem. We need to find out who took the shots at Jason and Elizabeth today and why?" he paused, "If it was business or personal?"
"Or both." Francis adds.
"Now once more what happened today Jason?" Sonny asked.
"I went to Kelly's to pick up the basket of food, ran into Bobbie and she warned me off of Elizabeth. Then we went to the boat. I had a bad feeling that I couldn't shake but figured it was just because of Bobbie and Luke and going out with Elizabeth. I played around in the water with Libby. Elizabeth and I talked. Libby went to sleep. Elizabeth and I talked some more and then we got in the water ourselves. I kissed her and then Libby woke up and we were getting shot at. I shield her and I guess Robin and Lucky saw what was happening cause Elizabeth said Lucky said it was okay to go. And then we got inside with no problem and I called you." He sat back with a sigh.
"Well I have a team going over the casings." Sonny said, "And we got a footprint sample. It'll be a few days before we get the results."
"I hate waiting." Jason sighed.
"We know." Sonny, Johnny and Francis said at the same time.
"I just have this feeling I can't shake." Jason closed his eyes and blew out a breath, "I don't think this was business."
"So who have you pissed off since you've been back?" Francis asked.
"Bobbie but she was just being her usual nosy self. Luke warned me not to hurt Elizabeth, but he did that was Robin too." Jason shrugged, "Taggert is always after me, but I doubt he'll go this far. AJ - nah we haven't seen each other and we can usually be civil, well when Robin was alive." He paused thinking, "Laura."
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Post by JRK Archiver on Feb 13, 2008 13:57:57 GMT -5
Songbird - Chapter 17
Elizabeth's House
Elizabeth should have expected his visit when she saw Luke coming into the backyard. She was sitting in the backyard, sketching while Libby played on her swings.
Libby jumped down immediately when she saw her grandpa Luke and ran over to him, hugging him tightly around the legs. He picked her up, a look of love and pride in his eyes as he hugged her, walking over to where Elizabeth was sitting.
"Babygirl." he smiled at his granddaughter, "Havin' fun with your mama today?"
Libby nodded, "We went on the boat with pretty eyes. And I played in the water and got to drive the boat."
Elizabeth smiled.
"Pretty eyes?" Luke said quirking a brow.
"Jason." Elizabeth laughed, "That's her name for him." she shrugged, letting the subject drop.
Luke nodded and his face grew serious.
"Baby. Mama and grandpa are going to talk. Why don't you draw some?"
Libby nodded.
"We'll be right over by the fence."
Libby nodded again and Elizabeth stood, walking over to the fence by the small flower patch she had planted the year Liberty had been born.
"You alright darlin?" he asked.
"We're fine Luke. Why?" Elizabeth frowned.
He smiled, "No need to lie, or protect Morgan. I know what happened." he tilted his head down, looking her in the eyes, "The truth, you okay?"
"I was a bit shaken up when it first happened then I calmed down, realized we all were safe and in one piece." she paused, "I'm fine. Libby's fine."
"What about Morgan?" Luke asked.
"Why?" Elizabeth asked cautiously, "I don't want you harrassing him on this Luke. Going over there and threatening him or telling him to back off."
"I'm not darlin. But I know Morgan, he likes to be in control and he’s probably beating himself up with the what ifs, it’s happened before.” Luke nodded, “But I just want you safe and happy, I have to look out for my children, even if they are only by proxy or by love. We're family Elizabeth. And I'm going to say this once and then it'll be over, be careful with Morgan. For both his sake and yours." he paused, a bittersweet smile on his lips and a distant look in his eyes as she looked at him, intently and patiently. "You care about him don't you?"
"Yeah. Yeah I do Luke. I loved, love Lucky. I always will. But Lucky's gone and while I'm not saying I'm moving on with Jason, he's becoming a really good friend. He understands."
Luke nodded, "Because of Robin."
"Yeah."
"Have you talked about Robin, with Jason?"
"Yes." Elizabeth smiled, "We've talked about her, I know about them Luke. Just like we've talked about Lucky." she paused, "But you know the best part?"
Luke shook his head.
"I don't feel guilty for talking about Lucky with Jason. It doesn't feel like I'm betraying his trust or memory or love." she looked down, "Is that wrong?"
"No darlin. That's how it should be." he paused, "I'm putting some feelers out on this incident."
"That's fine Luke. Just be careful." she tilted her head, studying his face, "You know who did this don't you?"
"I have a bad feeling on it Elizabeth." Luke sighed, "I just hope I'm wrong."
"Is it bad?"
"If I'm right, it'll change everything."
"It'll be okay Luke."
"I hope so darlin." he said gave her a kiss on the forehead. "Bye darlin." he nodded, before going over to Liberty, kneeling beside her, "Babygirl, grandpa's leaving. But I'll see you soon okay. I love you Libby Bean."
Libby smiled, hugged her grandpa and whispered, "I love you grandpa."
Elizabeth sighed, "Okay baby. Mama wants some brownies. Wanna help me make some?"
Libby nodded eagerly and Elizabeth scooped her into her arms, grabbed the sketchbook and bag of crayons and pencils and went inside.
Elizabeth was just about to pour the brownie mix into the pan when there was a knock on the door.
Wiping her hands on a towel she went to answer the door.
"Hey guys. You could have used your key you know?" She said greeting her two best friends, Em and Jazz.
"We didn't want to take the chance and interrupt something."
Elizabeth frowned, stepping back and letting them inside. She lead them into the kitchen where she finished pouring the mix and stuck the pan in the oven.
"Uh oh. She's making brownies." Jazz said.
Elizabeth ignored them, picking up Libby and taking her into the backroom and putting on the t.v., she handed her daughter the spoon.
"What happened?" Emily asked as they went into the living room.
"You don't know?" Elizabeth frowned again.
"What happened? Are the guys alright? Nobody got shot did they?" Jazz asked in a rush, her face paling.
"Johnny's fine. So is Francis." she said before Emily could ask, "And no nobody got shot, just shot at."
Jason's House
“I know Laura doesn’t like you and is way too overprotective of her sons, but would she really do this.” Francis wondered aloud.
“It sounds like a message,” Johnny said thinking the scenario out, “They used blanks so it seems like it was just a warning.”
“A warning about what?” Jason growled loudly, “I just got back into town. I did a little business while I was gone, but it didn’t create any problems or situations that would have warranted this. This is personal, I can feel it, I just don’t know why.”
“Because of Robin.” Sonny said, “Or the fact that you and Elizabeth have been seen together lately, maybe someone doesn’t want you moving on.”
“That brings us back to Laura.” Johnny said.
Jason growled again, getting up he began to pace, muttering to himself.
Johnny, Sonny and Francis looked at each other and then worriedly back at Jason.
“Okay. We all need to calm down and relax. Let’s not make to much of this right now, not until we know more.” Francis said.
“Relax. Right.” Jason nodded with a short, bitter, harsh laugh.
The guys looked at each other again, one thought echoing their minds. This was not good.
Cloud
Robin and Lucky are sitting on there perch high above Port Charles, but this time they are not spying on the citizens below or working towards getting their plan to work. This time they are concentrated on what happened earlier, who did it and why?
“Okay.” Robin said, “We need to figure out of the incidents were unrelated or not.”
“And if it was just one incident or two separate ones.” Lucky said thinking aloud.
“If it was business or personal. And if it was by the same person or some different.”
“And above all that we have to figure out who.” Lucky frowned.
“Are we really going to avoid naming the one person that is standing out in our minds?” Robin asked him in a low voice. She looked at her friends, her eyes shaded and concerned.
“I don’t want to believe that she would do something like this Robin. My mother, if she did this, something is wrong. Laura Spencer does not act this way.”
“To protect her family she would.” Robin reasoned with him, “If she thought there was a threat to her family’s happiness and well-being.” She paused, “Well Laura is a mother. She’ll do anything to protect those she loves.”
Lucky nodded, remembering some of the things his mother had had to do in the past all in the name of protecting her family from harm, both real and imagined.
Elizabeth's house
“Woah. Wait a minute.” Jazz said. “What are you talking about? What happened today?”
“I thought you had a date with Jason.” Emily frowned.
“I’d hardly call it a date Em. I mean we kissed but it was hardly a date, we had Libby with us.”
“You kissed Jason?” Emily said sitting down on the couch.
“How was it?” Jazz asked sitting down in one of the chairs.
“Great. Until we got shot at.”
“What happened Elizabeth and start from the top.” Emily said.
“We went out on the boat. Jason played in the water with Libby, gave her a mini swimming lesson. We talked about Lucky a bit. She asked about this scar he has on his chest. He explained it and told her he had gotten hurt and that’s where the doctor’s stitched him up. We played with Libby. We ate. I had Libby take a little nap and then Jason and I talked. He told me about Luke hassling him, but that it was okay, he did it the same thing with Robin. He said Bobbie hassled him about the basket, when she found out it was for us. Which really ticks me off, I’m going to have to have a talk with the Spencer women tomorrow.” She paused, “Um, we went back to the deck. We talked about Robin. He told me she was HIV positive and how she died, pneumonia with aids related complications. That they were intimate but used a condom because she wanted him to, didn’t want to affect him, but he didn’t care.” She sighed, “I told him about the rape. We both still get tested for HIV.” She shrugged, “Got back in the water, we played around, that’s when we kissed.”
“Okay and then what happened?” Jazz asked.
“I was going to check on Libby when all of a sudden we were being shot at, Jason pulled me away from the ladder and shielded me. I heard Libby wake up and wanted to go inside to her and he said he’d shield me, which if you think about it is a really stupid thing cause then who’d have steered the boat or how would I have explained him bleeding on the deck to Libby.”
“Elizabeth.” Emily said gently, cutting off her friends rambling.
“Right. Okay. Lucky must have been watching because he said to go and we did and got inside. He called Johnny. Then the boys came and Jason took us home while they did there thing.”
“Poor Jason.” Emily said, “I hope he doesn’t take this to heart.”
“I’m sure he’ll be fine Em.” Jazz said.
“Okay. What are you talking about?”
Emily and Jasmine exchanged glances and then sighed.
“He’s going to thing he failed. That he didn’t, couldn’t protect you and Libby.” Emily paused, “Did you guys argue at all?”
Elizabeth thought for a moment, “Not really. We had words. I was angry and scared but he just really stood there, taking it.”
“Momma.” Libby called coming into the room, “I made a picture for pretty eyes so he not sad no more.”
“Why do you think Jason is sad baby?” Elizabeth asked pulling Libby into her lap.
“His eyes were sad.” She said playing with Elizabeth’s hair, “And daddy and da angel lady Robin told me.”
Elizabeth narrowed her eyes, looking up. “Let me see the picture baby.”
”See. It’s us.” She frowned, “I want to draw da boat but I can’t.”
“It’s beautiful Libby.” Jasmine said picking her up from Elizabeth’s lap, “I’m sure Jason will love it.”
“I want ta draw da boat.” Libby said again more firmly.
“Pretty eyes will love it without the boat Libby.” Emily said studying the picture.
“Mommy can you take it to pretty eyes so he not sad no more.” Libby said looking up at her mother with her father’s eyes.
“Of course.” She looked at her friends, “Would you mind watching Libby for a while?”
“Of course not.” Jazz nodded.
A thought occurred to her as she looked at the picture, if Libby could see how upset Jason was, then he wasn’t hiding it very well. And if the incident was still bother him, she shook her head with a frown, “I need to go talk to Jason.” Elizabeth grabbed her coat and bag after putting Libby’s picture inside and rushed out the door.
Chapter 18
Jason's House
Sonny and Francis had left but Johnny had stayed behind to talk to his friend.
“I’m not going to snap you can stop looking at me like that.” Jason said sitting down with a thud. “It’s not like that night Johnny. You’re safe.”
“That’s good.” Johnny said cracking a crooked grin, “I didn’t bring any of my safety gear with me.”
Jason nodded, but kept quiet, “It’s not like that time Johnny. I’m not going to shut down.”
Johnny nodded but his eyes foretold he was still skeptical and worried.
“That time was different than this. Then I had no control. Here I do, at least a bit.”
They both look up at the knock on the screen door.
“Hey.” Jason said rising immediately and going over to the door to let Elizabeth in. “Everything okay?”
“Yeah. I just needed to talk to you for a moment. I’m sorry if I interrupted something.”
“I was just leaving.” Johnny said. “Call me if you need anything.”
Jason nodded, “Thanks man.”
There’s an uncomfortable silence as the two sit in the living room.
“I hope you don’t mind me coming over here like this.” Elizabeth said speaking finally.
“No.” He shook his head, “What’s going on Elizabeth?”
“I wanted to apologize. I realized I may have been to harsh. Earlier.”
“You weren’t harsh you were telling the truth. It is an unacceptable situation. That’s why I’m going to distance myself from you, and Libby. Until I figure this all out.”
Elizabeth pursed her lips, “Did you find out anymore?”
“Yes.” He nodded, looking her in the eyes. “The shells were all for blanks.”
She frowned, “I don’t understand what that means.”
“I think it means someone was trying to send me a message to stay away from you or warn you about how dangerous it is to be around me.”
“That’s a bunch of bull.” She said heatedly.
“No, it’s really not.” He stood going to the screen door and looking out. He stares into the evening for a moment before going to sit next to her.
Jason places his hands on her knees, “I have a dangerous job Elizabeth. I kill people for a living. I have killed people before and probably will again. I get shot at, shot and lots of other things you shouldn’t be around, neither you nor Libby.” He paused, “I get hauled into the PCPD for bogus reason and real reasons. I’m not a good man or an honorable one. I’m a criminal Elizabeth. I’m brain damaged.”
“You’re just a man Jason. Making a living, of course you do it illegally, but that’s who you are. I know all this. Your sister is my best friend. Your best friend is my daughter’s Godfather, one of them anyway.” She paused, her hands covering his, “I know what you do Jason, but you’re wrong. You are a good man, an honorable one. Because you wouldn’t have shown me or my daughter the kindness you have if you weren’t. You wouldn’t go read to the pediatric aids patients if you weren’t. You wouldn’t get that light in your eyes, that distant, haunted look in your eyes when you talk about Robin if you weren’t. You wouldn’t look at me like you do with kindness, friendship, compassion and understanding when I talk about Lucky.” She looked him in the eyes, “And you wouldn’t be this upset over what happened if you weren’t.” she tilted her head to the side, “Do you think this was a joke? A cruel hoax.”
He shook his head, knowing what she was referring too. “No. If it was, who would do something like this. Who would have the most to gain if we weren’t friends?”
“Someone who would be scared what would happen if we moved on.” Elizabeth mused.
Jason stood up, grabbing his keys, he looked at Elizabeth, “Would you mind going somewhere with me?”
“No.” she shook her head.
Chapter 19
Jason Morgan raced through the streets of Port Charles, a petite brunette holding on tightly, her arms around his waist and head tilted back with a laugh that was carried through the wind and surrounded them.
He stopped driving when they got to the path that would lead them to a little bridge.
Jason got off the motorcycle, holding his hand out to her.
“That was amazing.” She said her cheeks rosy and eyes bright as she smiled at him.
“I’m glad you enjoyed it.” He took her hand and led her to the bridge, stopping at the edge.
Elizabeth looked at him with concern in her eyes, “Jason?” she called him in a low voice.
“I’m sorry. This is the first time I’ve been here with another woman, since Robin died.”
He paused for a moment and then led her on to the bridge.
“I don’t know why I brought you here.” He paused, “That didn’t sound right.”
“I know what you meant.” She said down on the stone bench, “Tell me about this place. How did you find it?”
Jason smiled and it warmed Elizabeth’s heart and made her smile back. “I had gotten out of the hospital, after the accident, and left the Q mansion after destroying the room they had for me there.” He paused, “Robin had been with me when I woke up from the coma and I hadn’t seen her since then, that I could remember. My brain was still trying to sort things out. I had found the bridge and was just staring out at the night when I heard her coming and so I hid, so she wouldn’t see me. She was sad, so I didn’t want to bother her, disturb her and I was going to leave but she heard me and said hi.”
“Then what?”
“I said I was going to leave. She said I didn’t have to and started talking to me, me as me, not as him.” He paused, “We talked about the water, how you look at it and it’s so dark it looks like it goes on forever and ever. She said she liked to pretend that it did.” He paused again, “I told her I couldn’t handle forever, I was working on today.”
Elizabeth nodded but remained silent.
He took a deep breath and went on. “She said she was at my bed, in the hospital, when I woke up.” He paused, “And she said it so matter-of-factly, how she separated us, me from him, and we weren’t even friends then. We were just two strangers on a bridge.” He looked over the edge, peering into the dark water, “And we talked.”
{Flashback}
Jason: I remember. You never came back.
Robin: I'm sorry. I...I really don't have a good excuse.
Jason: You don't need one. I was lousy company. What's your name?
Robin: Robin.
Jason: Did we....know each other? You know, before.
Robin: Oh.....you mean did we have a thing together? (laughs in a little embarrassment) No, no thanks to me. When I was 13, I was madly in love with you.
Jason: I never did anything about it?
Robin: Other than break my heart, unintentionally of course. No, you never did a thing.
Jason: Wow, I'm really glad you told me this.
Robin: Why?
Jason: Because this is the first thing I've heard that Jason Quartermaine didn't do right.
He finished explaining and smiled at Elizabeth, “And she blushed, she looked so beautiful.” He laughed, “Of course, back then I had no idea what that all meant or how to explain it.” He shrugged, “We talked some more and then I realized that I came to the bridge looking for her.”
“Was she here?”
“Most of the time, it was weird and exciting, it’s like she knew and would be here or show up when I needed her.”
“You were connected.” Elizabeth said looking out over the water with him. “Thank you for bringing me here Jason.” She said leaning sideways on the bench so she was facing him.
“I came back here, when I got back, before I went to Johnny’s that night but it wasn’t the same. I felt her here, I still do, but it didn’t feel right.”
“How does it feel now?”
“Less stifling.” He said, looking over at her, “Ready to leave?”
Elizabeth nodded.
Soon they were back on the motorcycle, racing through the streets of Port Charles. Elizabeth leaned her head against Jason’s back and he manuvered and drove towards another destination, this time she knew where he was going.
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