Viva Las Vegas (Alt. Version) by TheJavaGirls

[JRK Archiver]

Twenty

It really was a shame but what else could she do? Staring down at the unconscious guard, Carly shrugged her slender shoulders and dropped the serving tray to the ground. Was it her fault that the man had the intelligence of the village idiot? No. She saw her chance and she took it. Who knew when she was going to get her next chance to escape.

Stepping over Max’s unmoving body, she made her way to the bathroom mirror. Reapplying her ruby red lipstick, she used her pinky finger to remove any excess around her lips. Running her fingers through her hair and readjusting her bra, she gave herself a satisfied nod before turning around and walking out of the bathroom and hotel suite.

“Now Maxie sweetie don’t you go anywhere.” A vicious smile crossed her lips. Grabbing her purse and tossing it lazily over her shoulder Carly waived at the man.

Sauntering down the hall. Her hips swaying. Head held up high. She was on a mission. One that was a long time in the making. Jason Morgan forgot who he was dealing with. The one who held the cards in their relationship and it was high time she reminded him.

~~~*~~~

“Can we please just go?” Her voice pleaded, as Elizabeth glanced over her shoulder at the piranhas who were staring back.

“Ah no.” Brenda’s brow shot up. “Those women,” her upper lip curled in disgust. “If you want to call them that. Can’t get away with saying stuff like that about you. Besides the fact that you’re the wife of one of the most powerful men on the eastern seaboard, you are a hundred times better than those cold fishes. The sooner they realize this the better.”

“But I’m not.” Shaking her head, Elizabeth backtracked. “I mean I know I’m better than they are. It’s the part about being Jason’s wife that’s not true.”

Folding her arms under her breasts, Brenda smirked. “Do you have a ring?”

Like a magnet her eyes shot to the shiny object on her ring finger. “Yes.”

Not giving an inch, Brenda pushed on. “If I’m not mistaken, there’s a marriage certificate somewhere that has your drunken signature on it.”

“But that was a mistake.”

“It doesn’t matter Elizabeth. As far as everyone in this room is concerned you are Mrs. Jason Morgan. No one here knows that you and Jase got slobbering drunk and tied the knot.” Deciding on a different approach, Brenda mouth curved. “Besides from where I was sitting tonight, even I almost forgot you two weren’t the lovebirds you’re pretending to be.”

“I won’t hold that against you. I think we all got a little carried away tonight.” Brushing aside a few strands of hair out of her face, Elizabeth took the time to collect herself. She didn’t just get a little carried away. She’d made a fool of herself. Staring at Jason all dreamy eyed, like some freaking love sick twit. For one brief moment she’d almost fell for the scam by thinking there was something going on between her and Jason.

“Yeah well if they didn’t believe, after that kiss between you and my brother...” Emily let out a low whistle. “It was hot.”

A crimson blush stained Elizabeth’s cheeks. “It was all part of the act.”

“Huh.” Emily expression looked thoughtful. “I never knew you were such a great actress. Maybe you should give up that art major and seriously consider taking up theater.”

Letting out a bark of laughter, Brenda clapped her hands over her mouth. Her eyes gleamed with amusement. “You should’ve seen Jason’s face. He looked like someone had walked over his grave.”

“Oh that’s what every girl wants to hear. Her kisses makes a guy feel like death.” Her dry words only caused more laughter. “Can we go now?”

“You really want to leave?” Brenda sighed.

Nodding, Elizabeth refused to look over at the women again. “You have no idea how badly.”

“Fine.” Looking over her tan shoulder to where Johnny was standing Brenda turned back around. “I suppose we should tell Johnny that we’re going. Why don’t you go tell him Emily while Elizabeth and I make our excuses with Mrs. G.”

The blood drained out of Emily’s face. “W-Why me?”

Brenda smiled sweetly at the younger girl while she took Elizabeth’s hand and started to pull her away. “You don’t mind do you?”

“Brenda.” Hissing under her breath, Emily watched helplessly as Elizabeth and Brenda waived to her and headed off. “I’m going to get you two for this.” Folding her hands under her breasts Emily stomped her foot. “This isn’t funny.”

Seeing that neither girl was going to turn around and rescue her, Emily took a shaky breath and groaned. “I can do this. I’m a big girl.” Pulling herself up straight and holding her head up high, Emily hurried across the room to the corner Johnny was standing watch. She refused to notice how mouth watering good he looked. His suit snug in all the right places. Wide shoulders. Slim waste. Thick thighs that she knew were rock hard. She also was completely ignorant of how his sandy blonde hair was brushed back with that one stubborn lock brushing his forehead.

All the way across the dining room, she gave herself a peptalk. A little along the lines of the Little Train that Could. Stopping a few feet away, she hated herself for not being able to look him in the eye. Not brave enough.

“We’re gonna go.” With the words out, she spun on her stacked heels and walked away.

“W-What?” His voice sounded miffed. “What about Sonny and Jase?” If she hurried she could make it to the traitors side. “Damn it Em...Will you just stop for a minute.”

Twenty feet to go. Twenty-five at the most. Elizabeth and Brenda were leaving Mrs. G’s side and heading back to the edge of the dance floor to wait for her. If she could just...

A hand snagged her from behind. Holding onto her upper arm in a vice like grip. Emily tried to yank away from him with no result.

Crap.

“What in the hell is going on?” His warm breath hit the back of her neck, making the hair on her arms rise. “We can’t leave until Sonny and Jason get back.”

“Oh, I think you’ll find that we can. And we are.”

“I was told to wait for Sonny and Jason.”

A bitter laugh slipped from her mouth. “Well aren’t you the good little slave?”

His fingers tightened and his voice sounded strained. “Not that again. I thought you understood why we can’t be together.”

“Oh get over yourself, will you? You don’t honestly think that I care anymore.” Even as the words came out of her mouth she knew she sounded like a spoiled brat. But she couldn’t help it.

“Ouch. Aiming a little low nowadays aren’t you?” And just like that his hand dropped. She heard him take a step back.

“Are we ready?” Brenda’s slurred voice asked as she and Elizabeth joined them. Emily could only nod and the trio headed toward the exit. A low masculine grumble came from behind, but soon Johnny was following.

~~~*~~~~

Jason was lost. Jabbing at the elevator button with enough force to break the panel, he ignored the bored expression on Sonny’s face. He’d thought everything was going well. The dinner. Their dance. Damn even their kiss. She’d looked happy.

So why in the hell did she leave? He’d been looking forward to sharing a few more dances with her. Perhaps sneaking out of the party together. Go for a walk. Get to know her better. But all that had gone out the window when he’d walked in to the dinning room and realized that she wasn’t anywhere in sight.

“Will you stop it?” Pulling him away from the front of the elevator, Sonny shook his head. “Maybe they were tired. It’s been a long day for all of them.”

Ignoring Sonny’s words, Jason shoved his hands in to his pockets. “You don’t think something happened do you?”

“Oh Jesus. You’re so whipped.” Holding up a hand at Jason’s irritated look, Sonny tried to hide his amusement.

“Knock it off. I’m just concerned.”

“Oh that’s all? Well I guess it won’t bother you then that Anthony Travoni was sneaking peeks down Elizabeth’s dress all night.”

Jason’s mouth tightened as a dark expression fell across his face. “He better not have been.”

“Jason I’m just as romantic as the rest of them-.” Jason snorted, making Sonny raise his brow before continuing on. “But you’ve only known the girl for a day. Most of it you can’t even remember. You can’t force someone in life long commitment based on a day.”

“What do you want me to do? Just ditch her? Tell her hey it was fun, maybe I’ll see you around?”

“I’m not saying that. But Jase there’s so many factors to consider. Your job, her education, where you two are going to live, Carly.” The last word was barely a whisper, but to Jason’s ears it sounded like a cannon going off.

“What about her?”

“She has leverage in this.”

“Michael.” His gut tightened as the image of the precious redhead flashed through his mind.

“You need to watch your step. Carly is a vindictive bitch. If she catches wind that you got married she’ll make your life a living hell.” Jason watched as the light lit up the little circles as the elevator headed down to his and Elizabeth’s floor. After a quick call to Johnny he’d found out his little bride was already in their suite. “Jase I’m being serious. We need to come up with a plan. If you want to stayed married to Elizabeth, for whatever reason, you need something to keep that little boy.”

“We’ll come up with something.” Dismissing the topic for the time being, Jason ran both hands through his hair in frustration.

Sonny studied his friend for a moment. “I tell you what. I’ll take care of this. But I want you to do me a favor.”

“What’s that?”

“I want you to take the next couple of days to get to know your new wife. And then decide whether or not the two of you should stay married.”

“Sonny-.”

“No. I mean it. It’s very honorable of you to want to stay with Elizabeth. But in the end it may hurt her more than help her. Who know the two of you may not even like one another. Maybe under that sweet smile and cute dimples she’s a Carly in waiting.”

Jason visibly shuddered at the thought. “No one can be that bad.”

“No. Probably not. But you never know. Fine make me do this the hard way. I’m ordering you to spend time with your new wife. Get to know her. Take her out to a few nice restaurants. See a few shows...”

“I hate the shows.”

“I know, but suck it up.” Sonny’s dimples nearly glowed. “So?”

“Fine.”

“Good.”

The elevator finally stopped and Jason didn’t waste time in exiting the elevator. Bring his hand up in a half waive as he hurried down the hall.

Sonny rocked back and forth. “Oh how the mighty have fallen.”

[JRK Archiver]

Twenty-One

The hot water from the steamy shower did nothing to ease the heavy feeling in the pit of her stomach. It didn’t matter that she used her favorite body wash. Or that there were at least twenty glowing candles scattered around the bathroom, thanks to Brenda. Nothing erased the memories of the night from her mind. She’d made such a fool of herself.

Just because he pulled out her chair. Held her hand. Smiled at her during the first second and third course. Danced with her like any adoring husband would. It didn’t mean that he’d fallen victim to their little game. Feeling the same rush she experienced from the moment she spotted him looking so incredibly handsome in his tux.

And that kiss. Never in her entire life had she ever felt so alive. The moment their lips had met everything in her life seemed to just click together. All of the pieces just fit together. Made sense when her life was becoming some huge joke.

She was stupid. Stupid. Stupid. Stupid. Men like Jason Morgan didn’t fall for school girls like her. Their little sister’s friends. With a boyish figure and practically non existent boobs. No, tall blonde and big boobed was more like it.

She was a little girl, playing on the adult playground. Those women had been right. She wasn’t woman enough for someone like Jason. A frat boy at a keg party was more her speed. Clumsy, oafish boys she could handle. Oh, she knew the rules to the adult world. Had the training and polish to pull off a dinner party. But the man himself...

Looking down again at the ring on her finger, she moaned. “Good one Lizzie. Not only did you embarrass yourself, but Jason probably thinks you’re the biggest fool.”

“Is that why you left? You thought you made a fool of yourself?” His deep voice startled her. Causing her to spin toward the sound of his voice, almost slipping and ending up on her butt. Thank god for the frosted shower doors that separated them.

“J-Jason?” What a stupid thing to say. Of course it was him. Who else would be in their rooms after ten? But in her excuse her brain wasn’t functioning correctly.

“Do you know how dangerous it was for the three of you to leave like that?” If she wasn’t mistaken he sounded a little disgruntled.

A frown creased her brow. Not sure she appreciated having in invade the bathroom while she was showering to lecture her. “Johnny was with us.”

“One guard, three women. Elizabeth I know this is all new to you. But Sonny and I aren’t the most loved people in the world.”

“We went out on our own last night...”

“And see how well that went?” This time he sounded amused. “Are you almost done? I think we should talk.”

Looking down at her naked body, then back at the door that separated them. “I’ll be done in just a minute.”

“I’ll be waiting for you in the livingroom.” Jason took one last look at her silhouette and cursed darkly. What he would give to strip off his clothes and join. To be able to slid his hands down her soft curves. Hold her close, run his tongue over the smooth column of her neck. Wrap his arms around her slender waist, sink deep inside of her until she was panting his name.

Rubbing the back of his neck, he let himself out of the bathroom before he did something that would embarrass them both. He’d be a liar to say he didn’t want her or that his manhood had taken a blow when he’d returned to the party and noticed her gone.

Walking around the suite, he didn’t notice all the personal touches Johnny had been instructed to carry out. The scented candles, dim lighting or Champagne chilling on ice in the corner. What he had noticed was Elizabeth’s dress balled up on the bedroom floor. Her shoes a few feet away along with her hose and garter belt.

Stopping at the window he let out a shaky breath. He needed to get a grip. Figure out how he was going to proceed from here. Sonny wanted him to spend some time with Elizabeth. No he’d ordered he spend time with his new wife. Out of all the orders he’d been given this was one of the best.

Honestly he didn’t know what he was doing. Intelligence told him that he should end the marriage. Let her leave and live her life. She was still so young. Had so much promise, potential. Being married to him was going to change her life dramatically. But something primitive inside him wouldn’t allow him to do the right thing.

He wanted her like he’d never wanted a woman before. It wasn’t just physically. He’d had his fair share of women in his past. Hell he had one somewhere in the hotel. Could have Carly anytime he wanted her. But he didn’t want her like that. What he wanted from her was her son. The little boy that meant the world to him.

“I hope you’re not mad that we left.” Elizabeth’s soft voice floated over to him from the bedroom door. Spinning, his breath caught in his throat. Never in his life had he seen anything so beautiful. Standing awkwardly, in one of the hotel’s fluffy towels she looked like an angel. Her wet hair hung in ringlets around her shoulders. A slight flush stained her throat and cheeks.

“No, just worried.” Looking away, Jason scratched his temple. “I thought you were having a good time.”

Elizabeth had a feeling that she’d hurt his feelings somehow. His face was guarded as he waited for her answer. “I was.”

“Then why did you leave? Why do you think I would see you as a fool?”

Because she was a silly little girl who wished she could crawl into a nearby cave and live out the rest of her days. What was she supposed to say. That her feelings were hurt by some overpadded middle-aged women. She realized what a love-sick little fool she was.

“It’s nothing, just another Lizzie moment.”

“I don’t buy that.” Jason shook his head. He could see the stubborn set of her chin and knew it was going to take ever ounce of patience he possessed to get the truth from her. “I could just ask Brenda.”

Her eyes flared slightly before she shrugged her shoulders. “You’re making a bigger deal out of this than what it is.”

Jason studied her. She was good. Apparently his new wife was good at building walls and hiding behind them. Probably was good enough to fool most people. He wasn’t most people. “Something happened.”

It wasn’t a question, but a statement. His inquisitive expression turned dark.

“No! Nothing happened.” She sounded like a liar. If she were to look into a mirror she wouldn’t be surprised to see liar written across her forehead. But she couldn’t tell him. How embarrassing would that be? “So do you want to take the bed or the couch?”

“I want you to tell me what happened.” Folding his arms over his chest, the back of his jacket stretched slightly, reminding him he could finally shed himself of the damn thing.

Elizabeth felt her mouth fo dry as he hastily ripped off his jacket and toss it in the general direction of the couch. The man was huge. His hands were purely masculine as they rolled up his shirt sleeves. She wondered what they’d feel like against her breasts.

Stop! Her mind screamed as her body started to tighten. She was setting herself up for a fall. She had to be smart about this. “I-I’ll take the couch. Just let me get dressed and the room is all yours.” Mortified by her thoughts, she slipped back into the bedroom before he started asking more questions.

Shutting the door quietly behind her, Elizabeth let out a low groan. “Stupid, stupid, stupid.” Slapping her hand against her forehead, she stopped and shook her head. Crossing to the room where her bags were placed she dug out her pale blue silk pajama bottoms and matching tanktop.

Throwing her robe on the bed, she took a quick look in the mirror above the dresser and made a face at her reflection. She was all skin and bone. How sexy was that? Turning to the side to stare at her side profile she shook her head in disgust.

Reaching out for the tanktop, she barely had it over her head when the bedroom door creaked open. Elizabeth watched in horror as Jason walked across the room to where his bags were and started digging through them. If he was aware that she was standing there half naked he didn’t show it. His movements were calm and sure.

Grabbing the bottoms off the bed, she nearly toppled over as she tried to finish dressing. Her face scorching from embarrassment.

“You’re not sleeping on the couch.” Jason tossed the words out before tucking his shaving kit under his arm and entered the bathroom, leaving the door wide open. She watched as he stripped off his shirt, leaving him bare chested. Elizabeth held her breath as she watched in awe while he went about his nightly routine. The man was a god. His tan skin stretched over a chiseled frame. His movements were precise.

And he was staring right back at her. Shouldn’t there be a law of how many times a person was humiliated in one day? Ten times sounded like a good round number.

His eyes were slightly narrowed, his mouth in a seductive little smirk.

Stumbling back a few steps, she felt the bed hit the back of her knees. Her stomach was doing those little flip flops again. Bed. She needed to crawl between the sheets, close her eyes and get a good nights sleep. Tomorrow she’d be able to think more clearly.

Settling her head on the cloud like pillow she barely had her eyes shut when she felt the bed dip. Her eyes shot open, staring in disbelief as Jason settled himself next to her. “I-I thought you were going to sleep on the couch.”

Jason reached over and turned off the bedside lamp. “No, I told you I didn’t want you sleeping on the couch.”

“But...”

“Elizabeth this bed his huge. There is no reason why we can’t share. I promise not to ravish your body without your consent.” He fluffed his pillow, stopping to look over at her. “Or we could talk about what happened at the party.”

Why that little sneak... “Goodnight.” Turning over so her back faced him, Elizabeth could practically hear his shock. Apparently he thought he’d make her slightly uncomfortable she’d spill the beans. Jason Morgan needed to learn the most important lesson about her. She was stubborn. No matter how embarrassed she was, or how deep the humiliation hit, when she was determined not to do something there was no changing her mind.

~~~*~~~

Emily stalked through the door Johnny held open for her and slammed it in his face. What she wanted to do was open it again and slam it over and over again until her rage was spent. What did she ever see in him? He was a prick.

Flipping the lock before the over grown twit could reopen the door, Emily glared at the wood that separated them.

“Emily open this door.”

Snorting Emily tossed her hair over her shoulder. “Or what? You did your job now scurry back to your masters.”

“I swear to god, if you don’t open this freakin door I’ll kick it down Emily Quartermain.”

“Not by the hair of my chinny chin, chin.” Her flippant remark didn’t make her feel better. But the frustrated growl did wonders.

“Have it your way.” A loud slam made the door shake, making her jump to the side in shock. “Stand away from the door.”

“Are you insane?” The door shook again and she hurried over to it, flipped the lock and threw the door open. “Are you happy now? Come on in Conan.”

“What’s wrong with you?” Not giving her a chance to close the door in his, Johnny hurried in. “I told you to wait.”

Shrugging her shoulders, Emily tore at her wrap and dropped it to the ground. “It’s not my fault you took so long to get to the elevator.”

“You pushed the button to close the door before I could get there.” He boomed in his defense.

“So what. You had to use the stairs, big whoops.”

Growling several obscenities under his breath, Johnny wanted to shake her until her teeth clattered inside her head. Didn’t she know how hard it was to see her like this? Having to stand to the side and watch her. Knowing that he couldn’t talk to her. Make her laugh.

How painful it was not to be able to hold her close. His body ached with need. “So is this how it’s gonna be every time we see each other?”

With a humorless laugh, Emily shook her head as she took out her earrings. “This was your choice, remember? I’m too young, too naive. Too much Jason’s little sister.”

“Jason would’ve killed me if he found out we were seeing each other behind his back. I’m an @#%$ for keeping it a secret from him.”

“Well you were right.” Emily wanted to pick up objects and hurl them at his head. “I’m better off without you. College parties, college boys...I’m up to my neck in fun. A different guy every night...” Looking over her shoulder she watched as his face went from white to crimson red. “The frat boys are a little shallow. But once you get past that-.”

“Shut up.” Taking a step closer to her, Johnny’s breathing came out in short rasps.

“But those football players.” Licking her lips for effect, Emily made a little sexy sigh. “They sure know how to show a girl a good time-.”

She didn’t see him coming. For a large man she had forgotten how quick he could be. Grabbing her roughly by the shoulders, his lips were on hers before she could go on. His tongue slipped through he parted lips, demanding her to participate in the kiss.

Too soon he was pulling away. His eyes burning with rage. “I swear to god you better be joking Emily. Or I’ll talk Jason into sending you to an all girl school... in Siberia.”

[JRK Archiver]

Twenty-Two

Carly cursed her rotten luck. Now free of that horrible little hotel room, she had found herself faced with a bigger problem. She couldn’t find Jason. Oh she’d searched every casino, restaurant and gift shop the damn hotel held. Keeping her eyes and ears open for any sign of Jason and Sonny’s men. But after two hours she was starting to realize that her searching was getting her no where.

And it irritated the hell out of her.

She’d never been a patient person. Sitting around waiting for the right moment to make a move. It was stupid. She was a firm believer that if you wanted something take it. No one was going to give it to you and she never saw the point in waiting around ‘for the right moment’. She was more the now kind of gal. Waiting only made her crazy. Plus she figured she’d done her fair share of waiting growing up in that run down trailer park in Florida.

But from the day she’d met Jason Morgan it seemed all that she ever did was wait. Waited from him to notice her. Then was forced to wait for him to take her up on her offers when his virginal little debutante couldn’t give him what ever warm blooded male needed. The nine months of pregnancy had been hell. The waiting game to see if Jason would prove to be the man she had pegged him for. If it weren’t for that little bitch Robin, things would’ve been so much smoother.

She would’ve been Mrs. Morgan by now. With all the influence, power, wealth and respect Jason Morgan’s wife deserved. She’d been so freaking close. Had Jason wrapped around her little finger. But then that pale little nothing went and told everyone who’d listen her little secret.

From there on nothing went the way she had planned. First it was AJ, messing everything up when he’d found out he was Michael’s father. Demanding his parental rights. Like that little lush could compare to his younger brother. But she’d stuck it out. Taking full advantage of the Quartermain name, until she couldn’t take another night by that weasels side. Letting him touch her, putting his lips on hers. Just thinking about it made her sick. But she’d taken care of all that. Had taken the bull by the horns until she was back at Jason’s side.

It didn’t bother her that Jason didn’t love her. It would’ve been nice, his feelings for her just another way she could manipulate him into doing what she wanted. But Michael’s arrival had given her the biggest advantage. Jason’s love for her son was the only thing she needed. Whenever she felt him pull away all she had to do was dangle Michael in front of his face to put him back in line.

The love Jason felt for Michael was practically a living thing. When the two of them were in the same room the emotion was almost enough to suffocate a person. All of Jason’s passion and care were reserved only for her son. In a way it made her bitter that she was never good enough for his love. But if she got marriage out of the deal she wasn’t above settling.

Standing in the front lobby, Carly studied a young man behind the counter. Not a bad looking man. Almost Jason’s height, just as wide. The man’s dark brown hair was brushed away from his face. But what really interested her was his flirtatious grin. The way his eyes seemed to brighten whenever a well-to-do female registered for a room.

The desk clerk was a kindred spirit. An opportunist that knew were to look. And her ticket to finding where Jason was hiding himself.

Straightening her dress and fluffing her hair, Carly was ready to make her move when a group of well dressed females stopped near her. The men that accompanied them left their sides and moved out side.

“Well if I were lucky enough to be married to Jason Morgan I sure as hell wouldn’t leave the party without him on my arm.” The woman chuckled. “It would take an act of God to get me to leave without him.”

“Well if you were as young and as beautiful as Elizabeth I don’t think you’d need to worry. Plus the sexual tension that dripped off them was unbelievable. I don’t think the new Mrs. Morgan has anything to worry about.”

The third lady snorted as she shifted through her purse. “Apparently you didn’t hear that Jason Morgan has his little whore from Port Charles tucked away somewhere in the hotel.”

“You’re kidding me.” The other two woman gasped in dismay.

“Well I refuse to believe it. If it is true I’d bet my Mercedes that he won’t keep her for long. Those two are in love.”

Carly’s hands shook as she heard them chatter on about the new love birds. No wonder she couldn’t find Jason. That no good lying scum. Locking her away while he celebrated his marriage with some little tramp.

Her eyes narrowed in rage as she thought of a million ways she was going to make Jason Morgan pay. He was supposed to marry her. She was supposed to be the beautiful bride that everyone was talking about.

Elizabeth. Why did that name sound so familiar? It couldn’t be. Not that tiny little waif from this morning. Jason’s sister’s college roommate.

Well it didn’t matter. What she needed to do now was come up with a way to get rid of her. By any means necessary. An evil glint entered her eyes as she made her way to the front desk.

“Excuse me?” Using a low honeyed tone, Carly grinned when the young man looked up at her. His eyes raking down her body before answering.

“Can I help you?”

“Yes I think you can.”

~~~~*~~~~

Elizabeth’s entire body was buzzing with sexual frustration and it was all his fault. Her dreams had been one long never ending rated X nightmare. Squeezing her eyes shut, she tried to block out the images that still haunted her. Jason’s naked body, pressed against hers. His eyes cloudy with lust as he whispered the most sinful things in her ear. She was the worlds biggest pervert and having him sleeping so innocently next to her was her punishment.

Was she a masochist? Sleeping in the same bed was just plain stupid. If she wasn’t able to control herself at a dinner table and dance floor, did she really think that sleeping next to him would be any better?

But the dreams... Dear Lord they seemed so real. At first they’d been in the shower. His lips on hers, as his hands did magic to the rest of her body. It all seemed so real. He had picked her up and set her down on him. Wrapping her legs around his waist as he pressed her into the wet wall.

From there they had made it out of the shower and to the vanity. He’d brushed her hair as he spoke Italian to her. Soon they were in a bed, his mouth latched onto her breast while she straddled him. Both of them moaning, their breathing erratic. Until they were both right at the edge. But each time they reached that plateau everything would get foggy, would fizzle into nothing. Leaving her frustrated, edgy.

With a heavy sigh, she rolled onto her back and tried to take a few deep breaths. Was that what it had been like between them? Hot, passionate, perfection. Well at least until the end. She refused to believe that after all that build up there wasn’t something grand waiting for her at the end.

Go figure her first time was with the handsome man next to her and she couldn’t remember a single second of it. Her first time was supposed to be magical. And she had no doubt that it was. It was just her luck that she wasn’t allowed to recall it.

“Can’t sleep?” Feeling him roll over onto his side, Elizabeth told herself not to look at him. Looking would be bad. Because she knew his lips would be just inches away. Which meant his rock hard pecs and washboard stomach where in reaching distance.

“Something like that.” Staring up at the ceiling she half prayed he’d go back to sleep.

“You want to talk about it?”

“No!” Her face felt scorched. God how embarrassing was this? Gee Jason I was having porno like dreams about you. All that was missing was a shag carpet and some funky background music.

Jason leaned closer to her. Something was wrong. “Is it about what happened at dinner?”

“What?” She made the mistake of looking at him. He was so close. All she had to do was move just an inch...

“Why you left early.” He clarified.

“No.” Sighing, Elizabeth decided telling him about the party was the less of the two evils. “Nothing really happened at the party. I overheard some women talking is all. It wasn’t as big of deal as you’re making it.”

Jason’s eyes narrowed. “What did they say?”

Okay did she really think telling him this was going to be less embarrassing? “Jason, really it wasn’t anything. Just me overreacting.”

“Let me be the judge of that.”

“They said...” Clearing her throat, Elizabeth tried again. “They said that I wasn’t woman enough for you. That you had your mistress here at the hotel.” Jason remained silent. Looking over to him, Elizabeth was almost positive he’d fallen back to sleep. “No big deal.”

“Do you feel that way?” His voice was low, almost cautious.

“It’s not like we’re really married.”

“You didn’t answer the question.” She could feel his breath on her neck. Making her shiver, and causing her arms to break out in goosebumps.

“Can we not talk about this? I think I’ve taken my quota of embarrassing moments for the day.” Rolling over again so her back was to him, she felt him move until he was pressed up against her, looking over her shoulder. So much for forgetting her dreams.

“Well then let me tell you what I think.” His voice was low, barely above a whisper. “You are one of the most enchanting woman I have ever met.”

“That’s not what you thought this morning.” Trying to make light of the situation, Elizabeth gasped as his arm snaked around her and pulled her even closer to him.

“You have no idea how beautiful you are do you?” His mouth was so close to her ear that she thought any moment she’d explode. “I plan on making you see just how wrong those women were.” Kissing her neck, Jason rolled over and got out of bed.

“Where are you going?” Looking up at him as he picked up his pillow, Elizabeth wondered what she’d done wrong to have him leave.

“I plan on getting to know you Elizabeth. Not take advantage of you...again. I’m going to sleep on the couch.” A slight smile tugged on his lips as it started to sink in. Why that little...

“You might have won that one Mr. Morgan. Getting me to tell you. Next time you won’t win so easily.”

Walking toward the door, Jason paused before turning around. “Has anyone ever tell you that you talk in your sleep Mrs. Morgan?”

Elizabeth paused then blushed. “N-No.”

“Good.”

[JRK Archiver]

Twenty-Three



“Time to get up.” Keeping her eyes shut, Elizabeth let out a groan as the sound of the curtains being yanked open greeted her ears.

“Five more minutes.” Pulling the pillow out from beneath her head, Elizabeth smothered her face to block out the brightness that was threatening her from behind closed eyelids.

“That’s what you said thirty minutes ago.” She could hear him moving around the room. Dresser doors opened and shut. Scraping sound of hangers. Prying her eyes open, she watched unobserved as a shirtless Jason busied himself hanging up their clothing and putting things neatly into the dresser drawers.

“What time is it?” Her voice was still thick with sleep, but the view she was greeted with jumpstarted her heart into hyper mode.

Looking over his shoulder, a slight smile on his lips, Jason let his eyes drink in her tousled state before answering. “A little after seven.”

“Seven? You’ve got to be kidding me. You’re waking me up at seven while I’m on vacation? Do you know that’s a crime punishable by death?” Burrowing deeper under the covers, Elizabeth closed her eyes again.

Laughing, Jason made his way over to the bed and grabbed a corner of the comforter. “If I have to drag you from this bed and throw you in the shower I will.” Tugging on the comforter in warning, he ignored the ugly words she mumbled about him.

“Give me one good reason I should get up.”

“Well for one I need coffee.”

“Goodie for you . Go get some.” With a big yawn she yanked the comforter out of his grasp.

Smirking, Jason crossed his arms over his chest. “I want some company.”

“Take one of your guards with you.” He could hear the teasing in her voice.

“Funny. Get up.” A devilish light gleamed in his eyes. “Or we could just have breakfast in bed.”

Bolting up in a sitting position, Elizabeth blushed as she tossed the covers aside. “That’s cheating.”

“Yeah well I won and you’ll learn that’s all that counts. Come on, there’s a small diner I want to take you to.” Holding out his hand and helping her out of bed, Jason couldn’t help but think how incredible it would be to see her like this every morning. Her curls sticking out in a mass of confusion. Her eyes in that almost awake but not quiet there state. And her lips. He’d never seen anyone with such perfect lips. It was physically painful not to be able to lean over and kiss her.

“Oh we’re leaving the hotel? You are a brave man.” Taking a step back from him, Elizabeth tried to keep her eyes trained on anything but his bare upper body. It seemed too intimate, her standing in her flimsy pajamas. Him half naked. It was a good thing he opted for the couch at night, because she was sure he’d get an earful tonight, if she really did talk in her sleep.

“I like to live dangerously.” Pushing her toward the bathroom with a amused shake of his head, Jason watched with appreciation at the slight sway of her hips. “Just get in the shower. You have thirty minutes.”

“Yeah, whatever.” Closing the door behind her, Jason heard the sound of the lock clicking into place.

Forty minutes later, Jason was ready to pull her from the bathroom and throw her over his shoulder. He had no doubt she was stalling on purpose. Showing him that she wasn’t as much of a pushover as she looked. If there was one thing he was quickly learning about his new spouse, she was one stubborn female. “Elizabeth?”

“Almost ready.”

The phone rang and Jason shook his head at the closed door before answering. “Yeah.”

“I’ve got some bad news.” Sonny’s tense voice replied.

Pinching the bridge of his nose, Jason held back a groan of disappointment. “What do you need me to do.”

“Nothing. But I just wanted to give you the heads up.” Sonny paused. “Carly got out of her room last night.”

Cursing under his breath, Jason’s hand clenched around the phone. “How?”

“Hit Max over the head with a serving tray.”

“Is he alright?” Hearing Elizabeth move from behind the bedroom door, Jason dropped his voice so she wouldn’t hear.

“Nothing serious. Needed a few stitches, and his pride dropped a notch or two.”

With a disgruntled grunt, Jason jaw tightened. “Good, cause I’m gonna kill him.”

“Jase you know Carly. If she wants something bad enough, nothing short of an act from God will stop her.”

“So am I safe to assume she’s been found?” Carly on the loose. He wasn’t even creative enough to comprehend the damage she could do. He was astonished the hotel was still standing.

“Not yet. The guys combed the hotel last night.” Sonny paused. “We’re gonna find her. It’s just a matter of when.”

“I’m going to check with security, see if they got anything on tape.” Already half way across the room, Jason went to grab his jacket. His mind already coming up with a list of avenues to look into.

“No. You’re not. I gave you an order to spend time with your new wife. I wasn’t joking.” Sonny’s tone didn’t leave any room for argument. “Besides that’s why we have employees. Let them do what we pay them to.”

“But Carly’s my problem.” Sighing, Jason didn’t feel right letting other people clean up his messes.

“No she’s become the family’s problem. And we’re gonna take care of her like we would with any other nuisance.”

“But Michael...”

“Will be better off without her. Jase I’m not saying we have to bump her off. I’m sure with a little financial persuasion she’ll leave on her own.” Jason knew Sonny’s bitter words were true. With Carly it had always come down to the dollar signs.

“I just wished there were some other way. Something a little less painful for Michael. He needs a mother.” Sighing, Jason heard the door open behind him.

“Well if you play your cards right you may have found the perfect candidate. Elizabeth is perfect for you. She’s sweet, kind, feisty. All the two of you need now is some time to see if there’s a spark.”

Silently he watched Elizabeth cross the room to her purse. “Oh I don’t think there’s a problem in that department.”

Sonny laughed. “Lightning bolts huh?”

“You could say that.” Hanging up the phone, Jason smiled over at the woman who was standing nervously in front of him. “Ready?”

~~~*~~~

The suite was lonely without Elizabeth and it was driving Emily insane. After arguing with Johnny the night before, she really needed someone to talk to. To be able to vent her anger and frustration without looking like some raving lunatic. She needed a baseball bat and five minutes alone with that annoying, obnoxious cretin. Perhaps a good whack upside the head would work wonders.

But Jason had taken Elizabeth out for the day. Which was a good thing. Crazy as it may sound, she really was praying that by some miracle things would work out for the two of them. It was amazing that she hadn’t thought of it before. They personalities meshed well together. Elizabeth’s zany and sometimes off the wall personality. Jason’s too quite and sometimes annoying need to be in control at all times. Put them together and they balanced one another perfectly.

If it were anyone else but Jason, Emily may not have been so willing to share her friend.

Crossing the living room she opened the door. “Francis I’m going up to Sonny and Brenda’s.” Walking past the guard, she headed down the hallway knowing he’d follow. “Have you ever really wanted something, were so close and have it disappear?”

Francis regarded her with a sad smile. “Yeah. It sucks.”

“It more than sucks. I really don’t get him. I mean what is he so afraid of?”

Patting her back in a big brother fashion, Francis looked adoringly down at her. He’d watched the young woman beside him turn into a young woman over the years and would do anything in his power to help her. “You mean besides your brother getting his hands on him and feeding him to the fishies?”

Raising her brow, Emily snorted. “Oh like he’s one to talk. He married my best friend.”

“Yeah, but guys get weird when it’s their younger sisters. Hell you’re not even my sister and the thought of you and Johnny creeps me out a little.”

Heaving out an exasperated sigh, Emily felt herself on the edge of another crying fit. “Why? Because Johnny’s older than I am. Or because you guys work for Jason and Sonny?”

“No. It’s more than that. We respect your brother and Sonny. Do you think we do what we do just for the money... Okay so the money doesn’t hurt. But we do it because we’re family. Max, me, Johnny we know we’re different than the other guys. Sure we might do most of the grunt work, but do you see us doing the crap jobs?”

“No.”

“We all know how lucky we are to be included. It means a lot to us. Your brother means a lot to us and I’m sure Johnny doesn’t want Jason to think he disrespects him none.”

“Well it still sucks.”

“Yeah, well welcome to adulthood.”

~~~*~~~

Rolling over and a purring sound rumbled in the back of her throat. “Now that was incredible.”

What she really wanted to say was it had been the worst ten minutes of her life. With all the grunting and moaning that came from him, one would think he was running the Boston Marathon. His jerky, animal rutting movements made her want to hurl. She was absolutely amazed at her ability to fake an orgasm. Or that she hadn’t called him Jason sometime during their short, pathetic tumble in the sack.

“I couldn’t have said it better.” Carly bit back a disgusted groan as Kurt, the desk boy, grabbed her breast and squeezed it awkwardly. “We make a great team.”

Swallowing down the bile rising in her throat, Carly forced out a smile of pure satisfaction. “Well you ain’t seen nothing yet.”

“So your ex, he’s loaded huh?” Looking up toward the ceiling, Carly thanked her lucky stars. She’d been positive he would’ve bitten the bait she’d been spoon feeding him all night and early into the morning. Lying tangled in the sheets of his bed, Carly was wondering if she’d read him wrong.

“More then you could imagine.” Licking the shell of his ear, she had to keep reminding herself it was for the greater good. No one played her the fool and walked away without paying a price.

“So who do we have to kill to get it?”

[JRK Archiver]

Twenty-Four

Staring at the small dinner doubtfully, Elizabeth turned to Jason and searched his face to see if he was serious. “You want to eat here?”

“Yeah.” Pulling the keys out of the ignition, Jason looked up and saw the look she was giving him. “What?”

“That place looks like it should be condemned.” Unfastening her seatbelt, Elizabeth opened the door and slid out. Her gaze never left the building Jason had pulled up to. Actually calling it a building was pushing the word to its limit. Most of the structure was made of brick, except for what seemed to be some last minute add-on consisting of weather beaten wood. The windows had at least an inch of dirt covering them and the Welcome sign looked like it’d seen better days. Where there once most have been a garden was a tangle of weeds. Shaking her head, Elizabeth hoped the inside looked better than what she was seeing.

Joining her in front of the SUV Jason couldn’t hold back his chuckle at her expression. “Come on it isn’t that bad. The owners are nice. They make the best enchiladas.” Taking her hand he half dragged her to the front door.

“Enchiladas for breakfast?”

“No.” A soft warm chuckle vibrated through his chest. “Maybe we’ll come back for dinner before we leave. You’ll love it.”

Before we leave. The words made her stomach ache. In a couple of days they would be leaving. Back to their respective homes. Leaving Las Vegas and their marriage behind. It was startling how bad the thought made her feel.

“Yeah, I’d like that.” Elizabeth couldn’t meet his eyes as she stepped through the open door Jason held for her. Looking around the interior of the retardant she was surprised to see so many people packed into such a small place. Everyone stopped what he or she was doing to stare at the new comers. Most went back to their eggs and bacon. Others continued to stare openly at the couple.

Stepping closer to Jason’s side, Elizabeth took comfort in his intimidating appearance. Wide shoulders, sculpted arms, thick thighs. Anyone would have to be an idiot not to see the danger sign that glowed above his head in warning. Someone would have to be a fool to start any problems with him. She hoped with some luck there weren’t any fools having breakfast that morning.

Allowing him to take her hand again he led her over to the only empty table, taking her seat she fidgeted nervously. The heavy stares of some of the patrons drilled holes into her back and it made her slightly uncomfortable. She felt every bit of the intruder that she was, knowing the patrons didn’t welcome her and Jason’s intrusion.

If Jason noticed the attention they were getting, he didn’t let it phase him as he grabbed a menu from its holder and started flipping through the pages. Following his lead, Elizabeth grabbed one and buried her face in its pages.

“Coffee again?” A tan skinned woman slipped up to the table. Her eyes seemed warm in welcome as she looked at Jason.

“Please.” Jason replied kindly. “How’s Ramon?”

The woman’s smile grew, as she chuckled softly. “That boy of mine is still getting himself into trouble.” Pouring coffee from the pot she held into the empty mug in front of him, she looked over at Elizabeth.

“No thank you. Just orange juice please.”

“Carla this is my wife Elizabeth.” Feeling the air getting sucked from her lugs, Elizabeth tried to smile graciously up at the waitress. Even though her stomach felt like it had just tied itself neatly into a sailor’s knot. Stealing a glance over in his direction, his amused expression made it hard for her to suppress the need to haul off and give him a sharp kick to the shin.

“It’s very nice to meet you.” The woman’s grin was huge. “I’ll be right back to take your order.” Hurrying away from the table to tend to her other customers, Elizabeth let out the air that had been trapped in her lungs.

“Johnny said the Huevos Rancheros were pretty good.” Jason sipped on his coffee, avoiding her insistent stare.

“Why did you do that?” Hissing at him between clenched teeth, Elizabeth hadn’t realized she’d spoken so loudly. Looking around to see if anyone else had heard, she turned her attention back to him. Slightly annoyed that he seemed so at ease.

“Do what?” His tone seemed light, but she hadn’t missed the slight pull on his lips. Oh he thought this was funny did he?

“Tell her that we’re married?” She had to give it to him. He sounded as innocent as a choirboy. In his case a choirboy in reform school. “Aren’t we?”

“What?”

“Married?”

“Yes.” She drawled out. “But not on purpose.”

“You’re my wife. How did you want to introduce you?” Now he was just having fun with her.

Flustered, Elizabeth tucked her hair behind her ears before she answered. “Oh I don’t know. Maybe just a plain ole ‘This is Elizabeth’.”

“I liked my way better.” Setting the coffee mug back down on the table, Jason held back his grin. Her face was beet red as she tried to come up with a reply. It wasn’t nice of him to enjoy seeing her like this. But he was finding that he loved the way her eyes sparkled and the top of her ears turned pink. “You better hurry up and decide. Carla is coming back.”

Obediently she looked down at the worn menu. Glad to have something else to look at other than Jason’s playful expression. It was doing weird things to her. Things she knew would only cause pain when she returned home.

After Carla came back, and took her order of scrambled eggs and wheat toast. Jason leaned forward and placed his hand on top of hers. He didn’t say anything as he stared at her intently. Almost like he was trying to find out her deepest secrets.

“So how do you find this place?” It was too quiet at their table. If one of them didn’t speak and soon she was going to go out of her mind.

Shifting in his chair, Jason shrugged his shoulder. “Sonny and I have come out here a few times for business. I can’t stand large cities. They’re crowded, noisy and polluted. So a few times I’d take off. Just drive. I found this place on my second trip here.”

“And who’s Ramon?” His thumb was now rubbing circles on the back of her hand and she was finding it difficult to concentrate.

“He’s Carla’s youngest son. He tried to pickpocket me the first time I came.” He watched the blush that started on her cheeks spread to her throat and down to the collar of her dark blue shirt. “His mother was worried I’d call the police.”

“What did you do?”

“I told him if he wanted money he had to work for it. I’d give him fifty bucks to wash the Durango.”

“Fifty bucks to wash your car?” Shaking her head, Elizabeth couldn’t help but smile. “Boy what a toughie you are.”

Soon Carla returned with their food and they feel into a comfortable silence. Soon they were pushing back their chairs and Jason through some money down on the table. Calling out their farewells to the waitress behind the counter, Jason led the way out into the warm sunlight.

“So what do you think of the diner now?” Opening the Durango’s door for her, Jason grinned down at her in amusement. So perhaps she’d overreacted and passed judgment to quickly on the dinning establishment. It seemed clean enough and if she’d been paying attention to her breakfast instead of Jason’s hands she may have noticed it wasn’t half-bad.

“Ha ha. What was I supposed to think when you pulled up to this pile of rubble? Four Star dinning?” Ducking under his arm, Elizabeth started to climb up into the passenger seat, when Jason took a step forward and trapped her against the door. Barely an inch separated them, his hands braced on the rim of the door, his head inching forward.

He was going to kiss her again. She could see the intent in his eyes, the determined set of his jaw and it made her stomach feel as though a swarm of butterflies had taken flight. It was beyond reason he would want to kiss her. So why was his lips just inches away? There wasn’t anyone around that they needed to prove their marriage to. It was just them and an out of the way diner, whose patrons could care less if they were married or not.

“Will you stop thinking?” Jason’s eyes sparkled in amusement. He could practically here the wheels spinning in that beautiful head of hers.

“I’m not.” Her eyes barely left his lips as her breathing quickened slightly.

“Uh-huh.” He teased, before brushing his lips gently against hers.

God she was so soft. He’d been dying to have her this close since last night. Hearing her moans and sighs while she was sleeping was sweet torture. Her sexy little body shifting under the sheet made him come close to losing control. But it was the low whisper of his name, followed by the most sensual purr he’d ever heard, that made him break out into a sweat.

If there was a medal for abstinence, he would’ve won the gold last night. His need had been so damn strong that it made his teeth ache. Leaving her alone in bed to take up residency on the couch had been a test of pure strength. Countless times he’d made it back to the bedroom door, only to turn away. He didn’t want anything to happen between them yet. Not until they had a chance to at get to know one another.

Feeling her body press hesitantly against his, her hand rest softly on his hip, Jason smiled victoriously before deepening the kiss. His ego soared when he heard her sigh, the tension flooded from her as she lost herself in the sensations the kiss was stirring.

His tongue skimmed her lower lip, causing her to take a sharp breath, giving him the opportunity to slip his tongue in. Running it against hers, he couldn‘t hold back the growl that was building deep in his chest. Never in his life had a kiss gotten him so worked up.

Once again the outside world was forgotten. It was just the two of them. His hands dropped from the door, as one went instinctively to cup her head. Fisting her taunting curls and pressing her even further into the kiss. He desperately needed to hear her moan. To know that she was feeling the same amazing sensations he was. His other hand rubbed small circles on her lower back, slowly going downward until he could run it over the firm curve of her bottom.

A semi whizzed down the highway behind them, honking it’s horn and breaking the spell between them. Reality crashed in on them as they pulled away from the kiss. Disappointment mirrored in their eyes.

Pulling his mouth away from her swollen lips, Jason rested his forehead against hers and took a few well-needed breaths. “Ready to go?”

No not really, she wanted to answer. Her hormones couldn’t take much more. After last night’s porn like dreams and now having Jason’s mouth on hers... She was ready to scream out in frustration. Never in her life had she been so driven by her sexual needs. If she had, she sure as hell wouldn’t have been able to hold onto her virginity this long.

What she wanted was to pull him down into another kiss. To have him hold her close again. Instead she managed to nod and slip quietly into the car. She was so frustrated that she didn’t trust herself to speak. It wasn’t Jason’s fault she’d become some freaky nympho overnight. It was rather embarrassing, the way her body was responding.

Climbing into the driver’s seat, Jason watched the rapid rise and fall of her chest. Her face was flushed and her body tense as she sat staring out the front of the vehicle. His mouth curved as her frustration rolled off of her and filled the inside of the Durango. It gave him an overpowering feeling. Knowing he could invoke such a state of distress from her. He had wanted to take things slow with her. Let her get to know him a little better before they went that next step. He had a giddy feeling that nature wasn’t going to let him seduce her slowly. Not when things got so hot and heavy with just a kiss.

~~~*~~~

“I’m really starting to hate shopping.” Emily grumbled under her breath as Brenda pulled her into yet another shop. “First yesterday, now today. I’ve been on vacation for almost forty-eight hours and so far it’s been a bust. My best friend gets married to my older brother and I wasn’t even invited.”

“At least she didn’t marry AJ.” Brenda mumbled as she looked through the rack of bridesmaid dresses.

Choosing to ignore Brenda’s comment, Emily made a face at an ugly green dress. “Carly is on the loose.”

“Bitch.”

“Johnny can’t pull his head out of Jason’s ass long enough to see that I’m not some little girl.” Emily’s lower lip trembled slightly as she fought back another round of tears.

“Men are jerks.” Sighing in disgust at the selection of dresses on the rack in front of her, Brenda went on to the next.

Laying a protective hand over her stomach, Emily grimaced. “And my bellybutton hurts.”

“Well at least Jason didn’t find out about that.” Trying to find some good in the situation, Brenda’s face lit up. “That’s a good thing.”

“Well yay me. Let me beak out the streamers and throw me a party.” Twirling her finger in the air, Emily followed Brenda around the store.

“I still think you should chain Johnny to the bed and have your way with him until he caves.” Her dark eyes sparkled in anticipation. “We could go to one of those sex shops on the strip...” Emily’s mouth twitched until she was giggling along side of Brenda.

Wiping the tears from her eyes, Emily let out a long breath. It was hard to stay in a rotten mood around Brenda. “I forgot to ask. What did Liz say when you asked her to be a bridesmaid?”

“I tried calling but no one answered.” Wiggling her brows, Brenda jabbed Emily in the ribs with her elbow. “I wonder what they were doing.”

“Eww.” Covering her face with both her hands, Emily made gagging noises. “That’s not even funny. Don’t put pictures of my brother and Liz in my head. That’s just wrong.”

“Well, it’s not like they haven’t already done the deed.”

Visibly shivering, Emily’s painful groan only made Brenda giggle harder.

“Oh come on Emily it’s not that bad. At least they’re married.”

Dropping her hands from her face, Emily’s face was unreadable. “Not for long.”

Brenda came to a screeching halt. “Wait. He didn’t tell you?”

“Tell me what?” Almost bumping into her from behind, Emily sidestepped the beautiful brunette nearly missing plowing her over.

Brenda’s mouth fell open as she let out a frustrated growl. “Men. Your darling older brother doesn’t plan on divorcing Elizabeth.” Prepared for Emily’s indignant outrage, Brenda was slightly thrown when the younger girl broke out into a wide grin. “Emily, that’s a bad thing. He doesn’t love her.”

“Of course he doesn’t.” If possible her smile only grew. “Not yet anyway.” Walking away to go look at a display of shoes on the back wall, Emily’s step was light.

Following form a few feet behind, Brenda chewed on her lower lip. Running the strange conversation through her head she desperately searched for some missing punch line. Jason and Elizabeth staying married was wrong on so many levels. To a romantic like her, just the fact that they both deserved to fall head over heals for someone someday made it hard to except. Of course there were always the realistic reasons, ones she usually never paid much attention to.

They didn’t know one another. Elizabeth was young and had so much to look forward to before she settled down. Getting married to a complete stranger while you’re drunker than a roadie at a Gun’s and Roses concert was just plan tacky. So how was it Emily found this a good thing?

“Emily you can’t seriously be happy about this.” Hurrying after Emily, Brenda dogged the younger girl’s steps.

“Why wouldn’t I be happy that my best friend is now a member of my family? Besides she’s so much better than Carly.” A vicious gleam sparkled in her eyes. “I can’t wait until that nasty troll finds out that she can’t dig her poisoned claws into Jason or his money.”

“Okay I’ll admit watching the Queen Bitch get knocked down a peg or two does hold some appeal. I just don’t understand why you’d want them to stay married.” Folding her arms across her chest she ignored the shoe Emily held up for her inspection.

Sighing, Emily lowered the shoe. “Did you see them last night?”

“Yeah. They were at our table.” Brenda answered stubbornly when she saw the direction Emily was going.

“There were sparks. Fireworks...” Her eyes took on a dreamy look and Brenda made it her responsibility to squash it now before it was too late.

“An atomic blast. Yeah I saw it. But that’s just sexual attraction. It doesn’t get you through your first year of marriage, let alone to the ’until death do you part’, part.”

“But it helps right?”

“Well yeah. But there’re so many other building blocks that are needed to make a marriage work.” Taking on the part of the responsible, clearly thinking party in this discussion didn’t sit well with Brenda. She was more the impulsive, the-devil-may-care type. So being shoved into the role of Miss Maturity put a bad taste in her mouth.

“So they’ll work on it. Come on Brenda, if you stop being so stubborn and admit that maybe this one time you could be wrong. Trust me, you’ll see just how perfect Jason and Elizabeth are for one another. Besides you’re pissy that they got married before you and Sonny did. What does this make? The fourth time you two have tried to make it to the alter? Maybe you guys should consider the get-drunk-get-married method.”

“First of all, I am not stubborn. Second I’m, not pissy. Third, Sonny and I are getting married this time, even if I have to shoot someone. But most importantly, I’m never wrong.” Emily brows raised as she stared over at Brenda, the forgotten shoe dangling in her hand. “Fine I can be a little stubborn. And occasionally I’ve been known to be wrong. Tell me one reason why Jason and Elizabeth are good for one another and I’ll jump on the Morgan marriage train. I’ll even play cupid if that makes you happy. ”

“Only one?” Smirking, Emily held up one finger. “Elizabeth won’t take advantage of Jason’s good nature. They’re both furiously loyal. Jason will be able to slightly curb Elizabeth’s wild tendencies without squashing her free spirit. They nearly burnt down the place last night with sexual tension-.”

Holding up her hands in surrender, Brenda laughed. “Been thinking about this?”

“Just a little. It was the only thing I could do last night to keep me from hunting Johnny down and breaking his legs.”

“You forgot one thing.”

“What’s that?”

“They’re soulmates.” Brenda answered grumpily, hating to have to admit that just maybe she was wrong. And a little stubborn. Perhaps a tad pissy. But by all that was holy she was getting married in three days.

~~~*~~~

Driving back to the hotel, Elizabeth head lolled back against the headrest as she watched the sunset with hooded eyes. Their day together had been pure perfection. Even if he’d awoken her at such an ungodly hour. After breakfast he’d taken her to a American Indian Festival, where they’d spent the rest of the day walking from tent to tent. Looking at the different items for sale. Jewelry, pottery, paintings, food. She had found a beautiful turquoise anklet, Jason had insisted on buying her.

Outside there were several different demonstrations of ancient Indian dance. A storytelling pit had tourists and locals crowded around as weathered old men told tales of long ago. Elizabeth drank it all in. Every color, scent, emotion. Her hands itched to get back to the hotel and start sketching. So many images ran ramped through her head until it almost made her dizzy.

Jason was by her side the entire day. If he wasn’t holding her hand, then it was on her lower back. Guiding her through the congested crowd. A few times she’d noticed him glaring down other males when they’d look her way and not have the common sense to look away. It made her light headed over how protective he was. Though always attentive, he was always aware of their surroundings, of the people nearby. It was silly, but his ability to make her feel safe, only made him all that more attractive in her eyes.

Not that he needed any more qualities to make her want him. The kiss from earlier that morning and another at the fair grounds made her insides ache. Being around him caused mass confusion to her emotional state. Her libido was in overdrive, while her heart turned to goo. Never in her life had she felt so complete. So at ease with herself, with someone else. She felt invincible, while at the same time a tiny part of her knew when all this was over she was going to face the most intense pain she’d ever experienced.

It was stupid really. They didn’t know one another. But somewhere between the turquoise jewelry and the grilled corn she’d fallen hard for him. Elizabeth couldn’t say it was love. Seeing that she’d never really been in love before. But if she wasn’t in love she sure hoped when the day came, it would somehow compare to how she felt today.

“You look tired.” His hand squeezed hers gently, pulling her from her thoughts.

“Beat. I could sleep for a week.” To illustrate her point, Elizabeth let out a healthy yawn.

“When we get back you should take a nap before we go to dinner.” Taking his eyes off the road, Jason looked over at her face to judge her reaction. They’d already spent the majority of the day together and he knew she loved every minute of it. He just didn’t want to push her too hard and have her start to retreat. A slow grin spread across her face but quickly vanished. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing really. It’s just that...I really would love to go to dinner with you. But I feel bad about ditching Emily all day.” Watching as she pulled her lower lip between her teeth, Jason let out a sigh of relief.

“Then how about we invite Em along and after dinner we can all do something together.”

“Can we gamble?” Her tired state completely forgotten, Elizabeth sat up straight, excitement filled her eyes.

Groaning loudly, Jason winced. He should say no. Just the thought of Elizabeth and Emily in a casino, drinking gave him the hives. There was also a missing Carly to think about. It made him uneasy that no one had found her yet. During the day he’s contacted Johnny’s several times. Hoping like hell she’d been found and was on her way back to Port Charles. But the glowing look in Elizabeth’s eyes made him nod his head, agreeing with her.

Pulling into the under ground parking garage they took the back elevator up to their floor. He wanted like hell to lean her up against the wall and kiss her. To feel her body pressed tightly against his. He didn’t though. Because he knew he wouldn’t be able to stop with just one kiss. This morning at the restaurant and then at the fairgrounds he’d almost said hell with it and taken her back to their room. Where he could spend the rest of the day exploring her body and the way she made him feel every time they touched.

He’d experienced need before. Christ what human being with hormones hadn’t? This was entirely something else. His body physically hurt the longer he waited. He wanted nothing more than to burry himself deep inside her. Feel her smooth skin against. Just hearing her moan his name would probably make him lose control. But he didn’t want a quick, rough tumble in the sack. With Elizabeth he wanted to remember every minute, touch, caress.

The loud bell signaling their floor graciously jarred him from his thoughts. Putting his hand on her lower back, he felt her move closer to her side until they were brushing up against one another while they headed toward their suite.

“Why don’t you go in and take a nap while I go find Emily.” Not giving her a chance to respond, Jason leaned forward and brushed a gentle kiss across her mouth before opening the door to the room and guiding her inside. He made the mistake of looking into her eyes, seeing her need burning as brightly as his. If he didn’t go now, there was no way she’d get a nap. He didn’t even think their chances of making it to the bed were in their favor.

“Keep the door locked.” He croaked before shutting the door loudly. Shoving his hands deep into his pockets, cursing at himself under his breath as he walked uncomfortably back to the elevator.

[JRK Archiver]

Twenty-Five

Procrastination. If there was one word in the English language that didn’t fit Jason Morgan, procrastination was one of them. Always on the go, his mind constantly wrapped around the latest task or job needed to get done. A strong believer in getting things done the right way, the first time around. His every movement and reaction calculated, with precise decision. Was now, at this very moment doing everything and anything in his power to keep from having to return back to their rooms.

He endured forty-five minutes with Brenda and Emily. Suffering through the mini fashion show of bridesmaids dresses. Neither girl could decide which one they liked while shopping. So they purchased a wide assortment in duplicate to see which one Elizabeth would prefer. There were so many different colors of rustling fabric, in different shapes and styles that it made his head hurt.

During this time he’d also had to tolerate their teasing and embarrassing questions. Making each minute pass by painfully slow. It wasn’t until Brenda brought out the lacy undergarments that he’d met his pain threshold. With a hasty goodbye and a reminder to Emily of dinner that night, Jason fled the room in search of Johnny.

Had he known his friend had a tree the size of a redwood crammed up his ass, Jason would’ve considered playing in traffic instead. It would have been more enjoyable, and a halluva lot more safe. In all the years he’d known the bodyguard he’d never seen anything but a smile on the man’s face. Even in the middle of a job, in the pitch black of night, Johnny’s big ass teeth could always been seen. But after the third time Johnny bit his head off, Jason calmly told his friend to get laid, before turning around and admitting defeat.

So here he was now, standing outside in the hallway like an idiot. His breathing was already erratic and he wasn’t even in the same room with her. Just knowing that she was probably asleep in the large bed, cuddled under the covers was playing havoc on him. Images of slipping in next to her, pressing his body up next to hers, cupping one of her pert breasts in his hand flashed through his head. Making his pants uncomfortably tighter with each passing moment.

Why was he doing this to himself? He wanted her. And by the way she responded to their kisses today he knew the feeling was mutual. It didn’t make any sense why he was putting himself through this kind of hell. Instead of wondering how hot and wet she’d get, he should just go right on in and find out first hand.

Pinching the bridge of his nose and letting out a shaky breath, Jason hung his head down low as he tried to rid himself of such thoughts. It was too soon, he wanted them to get to know one another better before they burned each other between the sheets. He respected her too much already to treat her like that. Perhaps if she was like Carly. Greedy, cynical, bitchy he could take advantage of her like that. But she wasn’t and for the life of him, he wanted things to work out with Elizabeth.

With a new determination, Jason quietly let himself into the suite. Looking around he found the living area empty. Elizabeth’s shoes were neatly tucked under one of the end tables. Her purse tossed onto the couch. Taking a closer look, he felt a tightening in his chest when he spotted other odds and ends that belonged to her about the room. It felt right. Coming back to her, to their room and finding pieces of her already surrounding him. Even if it was only a random hair scrunchy and a forgotten jacket.

It made him wonder what it would be like living with her. Coming home, hanging his jacket next to hers in their closet. Her magazines scattered around their living room. A bathroom filled with hairspray and gels, make-up and curling irons. Pantyhose hanging from the shower rod.

He’d lived like that with Carly and in the most part he felt suffocated. Like the life was being squeezed from him with each passing day. Sometimes a long ride on his motorcycle could make him feel better. But living with Carly made him feel trapped. It was just the opposite with Elizabeth. The thought of sharing a living space with her, well it sounded down right homey.

Smiling at himself for such sappy thoughts, Jason checked his watch. They had two hours before they were to meet up with Emily for dinner, and if Elizabeth was like any other female he knew she’d need at least an hour to get ready. Deciding to take a shower before waking her up, Jason headed to the bedroom.

Silently he stepped into the darkened room and made his way over to the dresser. He kept his eyes away from the figure in the bed, knowing it would break his waning self-control if he did. The sound of rustling sheets from behind him caused him to freeze. Listening carefully, he waited until he heard her let out a soft sigh before opening the top drawer and grabbing a clean pair of jeans. That done he headed for the closet, all he had to do was get a shirt and make it to the bathroom and he’d be home free.

“Jason?”

Crap.

Her voice was still thick with sleep, but just the sound of it sent chills down his spine.

“Is it time to get ready for dinner?” Bracing himself, he turned to face her and felt the air get sucked from his body. Out of all the ways he imagined her to look tucked in away in the bed, none of them matched the view he was greeted with.

Elizabeth was propped up on one elbow, the delicate strap of her black camisole slipping slowly over her shoulder. Her eye lids heavy still from sleep, added with her full pouty lips started to diminish the restraint he’d been fighting to maintain through out the day. Did the woman have any idea just how sexy she was? How her innocence mixed with her natural sensuality was a powerful aphrodisiac he was too weak to resist.

Clearing his throat, Jason looked away, his discomfort evident with his jerky movements. “No, not yet. I thought I’d grab a shower first. Then the bathroom is all yours.”

Elizabeth frowned slightly. “Are you okay?”

His electric blue eyes snapped up to meet hers. “Yeah, why?”

He watched in pain, as she sucked her lower lip between her teeth as she let her eyes roam over his face. “I don’t know. You’re just acting...different.”

Trying to make his body relax, Jason swallowed hard. “I’m fine,” He answered sharply as her sheet slipped to reveal the swells of her breasts. His eyes followed the falling sheet and settled to the flesh that was exposed. “I...” He wanted to touch her. Fighting to keep his breath from coming out in short pants, Jason clutched at the clothing in his hand and told himself to get a grip. “I’m gonna take a shower.”

Spinning on his heel, he made it all the way to the bathroom door before she stopped him again. “Are you mad about something? You seem tense.”

Was she joking? Of course he was tense. Christ his muscles were so tight he felt his body was going to shatter at any moment. Her words just proved her innocence. Trying to make his voice as soft as possible, Jason looked over his shoulder and offered her a small smile. “Elizabeth I’m fine.”

She was now sitting up in bed. The strap that was threatening to slip from her shoulder was now dangling down her arm. Making the silky fabric dip lower than intended. His eyes couldn’t leave the rise and fall of her breasts.

His mouth went dry and breathing became an issue. His blood went straight to groin as he stood paralyzed feet away from temptation. His conscience screamed at him to lock himself in the bathroom. To take a long cold shower. Do something to relieve himself of his growing arousal, so he could stop acting like some hormonal teen around her. Taking a step backwards, with full intentions of putting distance between them, he watched as her tiny pink tongue ran across her lower lip.

“Ah hell.” Dropping the clothes to the ground. Jason crossed the room in three easy strides and was on the bed in a flash. He’d moved so quickly, Elizabeth hadn’t had time to barely blink before his rough hands were on her waist, pulling her to him as his mouth attacked hers.

Somewhere in the back of her mind she thought she’d heard herself whimper, but soon the sound was drowned out by the primitive growl that trembled deep in Jason’s chest. Putting her hands on his shoulders, she could feel the familiar humming that always took shot through her body when their bodies came in contact.

Sucking her lip into his mouth, Jason nipped at the sweet tasting flesh. The jolting pain, was eased by the tenderness of his tongue. Creating tiny waves of pleasure to flow through her body, ending up between her thighs.

His hand skimmed her jaw before slipping into her hair. Unlatching his mouth from hers, his hot breath fanned across her face as he pulled back to look into her eyes. Desire and uncertainty swirled in her deep dark pools.

“Elizabeth, do you have any idea how much I want you?” His voice was measured restraint against the shell of her ear. “I really wanted to wait.”

The words barely registered as Elizabeth arched her back and rubbed herself against him. Nodding her head in response, her hand skimmed over his shoulders and gripped onto the back of his shirt.

“Tell me what you want.” Nibbling on the curve of her collarbone, his ears strained to her the words slip from her mouth. “If you want to wait, I’ll back off.”

“I want...” Crying out as his hand cupped her clothed covered breast, Elizabeth’s legs shifted under the sheets, allowing Jason’s thigh to move in closer to press up against her.

“Please I need to hear it.” His thumb nail raked over her budding nipple, causing her head to drop to his shoulder.

“You. I need y-.” Not needing to hear anything more from her, Jason used his weight to press her back against the pillows. His mouth latched onto hers, hot and demanding. His tongue swirling against hers as his hand dipped under the silky material to burn her flesh on her stomach, before blazing a trail upward.

The sheets imprisoned her legs as she twisted to free herself. Feeling his roughened hand make contact against the sensitive underside of her breast, Elizabeth nearly jumped off the bed. Her eyes widened and she was surprised to find him staring down at her. His face hard, his eyes filled with uncontrollable passion.

It made her feel utterly feminine to cause such a reaction. Giving her an odd sense of power that she had no idea how to use. Shifting against the leg pressed intimately against her, Elizabeth watched in fascination as Jason’s pupils dilated and his nostrils flared. Moving again, the motion triggered a building sensation deep in her belly. Making her gasp and Jason to curse darkly underneath his breath.

Without any sign of patience, Jason tore back the covers and flatted himself against her. The rough material of his jeans rubbed against her thighs. Wrapping a strong arm around her slender waist he rolled them over so she ended up on top, her legs straddling his waist. It was the only way he could keep himself from tearing his clothes off and plunging into her.

She hesitated at first, unsure of their new position. But with a gentle buck of his hips from underneath, he brought back that fevered glaze in her eyes and groaned when she leaned forward, her breasts brushing up against his chest as she placed butterfly kisses along his jaw line, until she reached his lips. Her tongue swept over his lower lip, tasting him as she explored. Soon she nudged his lips open and slipped her tongue inside.

His hands rubbed circles on her back, moving lower until he cupped her bottom and holding her still as he rocked his hips into hers. Her hands grabbed his shirt as she tried to push it up and over his head. Her mouth leaving his to taste the newly exposed flesh. Sitting up, her still snug in his lap, Jason yanked the tee-shirt over his head before lying back again.

Taking the delicate straps of the black camisole in both hands, he gave an efficient tug and was rewarded with the sound of the material snapping. Letting the fabric cascade over on breast, Jason rolled them over again. His mouth fused on the hardened peak that teased him. Sucking it into his mouth, his teeth clamped onto her gently as he gave a slight tug. Her nails scored him as her head pushed back into the pillows as her back arched up to offer herself to him.

Too soon he left her breast as he kissed and nuzzled his way downward. Dipping his tongue into her bellybutton. Making her moan and giggle at the same time. His hands traced along the backsides of the thighs, opening them wider, making room for his body. It wasn’t until his tongue traced the edge of her silky panties that he felt her body tensed. Her hands tugged at him to travel back up.

“Elizabeth if you’re uncomfortable with this tell me.” As much as he wanted her. How badly his body demanded he just end the pain and torment. He didn’t want to push her any farther than she wanted to go. He felt her relax slightly, her hands stopped pulling as she raked her nails through his hair.

“Jason I want you.” The words were heaven. Sliding his tongue over the material, down to her hot core. He could taste her through the silk. Her panties were drenched with her need.

Her hips rocked into his mouth, her passion filled cry only intensified his need to send her over the edge. Disposing of her panties, Jason parted her wet curls and licked greedily at her center. Licking upward, he teased her nub, while he placed a palm on her abdomen to keep her in place.

Her body shook in need as her thighs tightened against his head. He could feel how her breathing came out in short labored pants, as she struggled against the sensations he was building up inside her.

“Don’t fight it.” He demanded as he lifted his mouth away from her swollen lips. Slipping a finger inside her, Jason marveled at how wet she was. Never in his life had he experienced a woman so aroused. He watched as her as she closed her eyes. Her hands twisted the sheets she held onto like a lifeline. Lapping at her again, and adding another finger to his first, he felt the beginning of the spasms along her inner walls.

“That’s it.” She let out a displeased cry when he lifted his mouth away from her. With a smug smile, Jason sucked her clit into his mouth and flicked it with his tongue. Her body shuddered as she fought against the hand holding her down. His eyes drank in the sight of her climax, male pride swelling inside him.

Easing away from the center of her thighs. He slipped off the bed, only long enough to slip out of his boots and dispose of his jeans. Standing at the foot of the bed, naked and pure male, his eyes raked down her body in appreciation. She was beautiful and at this moment she was his wife. Just the thought caused his @#%$ to twitch as he crawled back onto the bed. Her eyes following him as he inched his way back up her body, leaving a wet trail of kisses.

Her body arched against his again, naked flesh rubbing, until he was positioned between her thighs. His rock hard shaft rubbing against the inside of her thigh. Her slender legs twined around his muscular one, running her foot along the backside. Her nails dug into his biceps as she rocked her hips against his. Silently pleading for him to ease into her.

Her juices covered the length of his @#%$ each time she moved. Until finally she fitted him against her opening.

Lowering his head and taking her mouth in a sweet kiss, he inched his way in. His arms shook from the effort of bracing his weight off her, but also from the intensity of his need. Their eyes connected as Elizabeth bucked up hips up, taking the rest of him inside her. All self control snapped as Jason’s hips drove into her. A grateful whimper fly from her lips as she met him thrust for thrust.

He wanted to feel her come again. To have her walls tighten. Milking a climax from him.

“Jason?” Her tiny mouth was open, as she once again fought against the pleasure. Nails bit into his shoulders as her breathing came out in struggled pants. Gripping her butt cheeks and lifting her so he plunge deeper, he felt her lose control. Rubbing his thumb across her swollen nub, it didn’t take much to have her crying out.

With a final thrust, Jason spilled his seed inside her. Her name spilled from his lips as he lowered her back down to the mattress and he gathered her in his arms. Their breathing labored as he kissed the curve of her neck.

“Elizabeth I really had wanted to give you more time to get to know me. I won’t say I’m sorry for making love to you, because I’m not.”

His words warmed her insides. “I’m not sorry either.”

“Good.” With one last kiss, he pulled out of her, and settled on the mattress next to her. Bringing her body close to his, and tucking her firmly against him. Jason felt her breathing evening out and knew she was almost asleep again.

Closing his eyes, Jason wondered if this was what it would feel like for the rest of his life. This feeling of perfection. Of finally feeling complete. A small smile touched his lips as he drifted off.

[JRK Archiver]

Twenty-Six

Even before his eyes drifted open, a slow lazy grin spread across Jason’s peaceful expression. The scent of their earlier love making still hung in the air. Her soft sighs of contentment filled his ears as she scooted closer to him. Rubbing her luscious bottom into his groin, Jason closed his eyes at the heavenly pain she invoked. Pressing his face into her hair, he inhaled and smiled at his foolishness. If his enemies could see him now, he’d be laughed out of Port Charles.


None of this made sense. He was behaving like some love sick fool over a woman he’d just met. But god help him, he couldn’t get enough of her. The way she smelled, the way her naked flesh felt against his. He could definitely get used to waking up with her tucked up close to his side. Perhaps he was being a stubborn bastard by wanting to stay married to her but after the day they’d spent together he had a strong feeling they’d be just fine.


But there was also Michael to consider. Would Elizabeth accept Michael into her heart? Take him as her son? When he finally told her of his intentions to stay together, explain to her Michael also came along with the package, would she understand. Or would she go running?


God what was he thinking? She wasn’t even out of college yet, and she was saddled with a instant family. He was a selfish bastard. Would she really consider giving up her freedom to stay married to him? A mobster with a insta-family. Without a doubt he had to be in love. He sure as hell wasn’t thinking clearly.


“What’s the frown for?” Blinking his eyes, he was greeted by the concerned expression on Elizabeth’s beautiful face. He saw the doubt in her eyes and felt like an ass. All of this was so new for her, the last thing she needed right now was to feel uncomfortable.


“Just thinking.” The corners of his mouth curved up as he leaned over to capture her mouth with his. It was a kiss designed to reassure. To prove to her that what had happened between them hadn’t been a mistake. No regrets.


Rolling her on to her back, Jason pressed his long frame into hers. Lifting his head, he stared down at her. “I was just thinking of all the closet space I’m going to have to give up.”


Her tiny brow wrinkled and her eyes narrowed. “Closet space?”


“Back in Port Charles.” Pausing to see if she was following him, Jason recognized the confused look on her face. “Elizabeth, I know this is coming from no where. But we need to talk about our divorce.”


Feeling her mouth go dry, Elizabeth felt panic grip her stomach. He couldn’t seriously want to talk about their pending divorce now. Lying naked in bed after what they had just done. They’d just made love. She’d just given herself to him, and now he wanted to talk about separating? Just the thought made her sick. “We don’t want to be late for dinner. I-I really should get ready. Can’t keep Emily waiting, now can we?” Pushing at his bare shoulders, Elizabeth tried her damndest to wiggle free from under Jason’s large mass.


“No. We need to talk. Now.” Using his body to keep her pinned under him, Jason braced an arm above her head and stared down at her until she finally gave up her protest and returned his gaze. Her eyes dark, the color of a stormy sea. “You’re going to need to be patient. I’m not good at this.”


“What? Forcing people to do what you want.” As if to prove her point, she tried one last ditch try to free herself from him. Unfortunately, he wouldn’t have it. Holding on tight he used his lower body to keep her from bucking up. His wide chest pinning the rest of her to the bed.


“Will you stop it?” He demanded. Easing his grip, he waited for her to move again. When she didn’t show any signs of escape, Jason let out a long sigh. So far this definitely wasn’t going like he planed.


“I don’t want to hear what you have to say. Not now after we... Jason please not now.” Practically begging, Elizabeth closed her eyes. She couldn’t have ‘the talk’ now. The one where he told her she was too young. Had so much to look forward to. Not after she sharing herself with him. “We can talk later. We can’t be late.”

“We wont be late if you’d stop fighting me.” A low chuckle vibrated through his chest as he kissed a sweet looing spot on her neck that was begging for his touch.


“I wasn’t fighting.” Sighing. Elizabeth tried to keep her head clear. Acting like a little girl wasn’t helping her cause. Running wouldn’t solve anything. Sooner or later they were going to have this talk. She might as well get this over with.


“As I was trying to tell you... About our divorce.” Taking a deep breath, Elizabeth waited. “I don’t want one. I was hoping we could see where this thing between us goes.”


Opening one eye, then the other Elizabeth stared up at his handsome face. Not completely sure she wasn’t hearing things. “You don’t want a divorce?”


“No.” The warmest sexiest smile graced his lips as he brought a hand up to cup her face. Running his thumb over her bottom lip. “I really think what we have between us could go somewhere. But before you make up your mind, you need to know what you’re getting yourself into.”


Nodding mutely, Elizabeth felt tears of relief to gather in her eyes. Her throat tightened, making it hard to breath.


“I guess you could say I come as a package deal. I don’t know what Em has told you about Carly and Michael...”


“Pretty much everything.” Watching shock spread across his face, Elizabeth backpedaled. “I’m sure she only told me because she needed to vent. I mean, she was so angry with what Carly put you and the rest of her family through. She just needed someone to talk to and I was there.”


“No she told you because you’re a good friend, she trusts you.” Jason replied softly, his expression relaxed. Running his fingers through her hair, he reveled in the soft texture pouring through his fingers. “I plan on raising Michael, without Carly.”


“She’s going to give up her child?” Clearly disgusted, Elizabeth tried to sit up. Only Jason kept her where she was. Not only did his position keep her exactly where he wanted her. But honestly, he loved the feel of his flesh pressed up close to hers. “After the hell she put you through, she’s going to just walk away? What kind of monster is she?”


Feeling a little uncomfortable, Jason took a moment to pick the right words. “No. Its not like that. I’m not giving her much of a choice.” Waiting for her to go off on him, he was relieved to see the expectance her eyes. “Carly’s a horrible mother. There was a time I had hoped she would come around. Her maternal instincts would kick in. But the only thing she cares about is herself. The only time she concerns herself with Michael is when he can serve a purpose.”


Elisabeth’s heart went out to the little boy. She knew what it felt like, having a parent who only remembered you when it served their own need. No one deserved that kind of existence. “So you’re going to convince her to sign Michael over to you?”


“To us.” Jason corrected her. “ That is if you agree. Like I said. I’m not giving her a choice. She’s gone to far. Last night she knocked Max out with a tray. We haven’t been able to find her since. Considering this is Carly we’re dealing with, she can be up to anything. When she gets angry she doesn’t think, only reacts. Which makes her dangerous.”


“You still haven’t explained how you’re going to get Michael from her.”


“If I asked you to trust me, could you do that? Let me do this my way?” Her answer was important. Her ability to step back and have faith in him would make or break their relationship. Because there would be times when he would need to ask her to do things he couldn’t explain. Nights he’d need to leave without notice. His life was a hard one. It would only be harder if she was unable to trust him.


Elizabeth seemed to sense the importance of her answer. Taking her time, she considered what he was asking. More importantly, what he wasn’t. She knew he led a dangerous life. She’d always teased Emily about her brother being in the mob. But only because she could see the fear and concern in Emily’s eyes whenever she talked of Jason. Elizabeth wasn’t stupid. By agreeing to work things out with Jason, she’d be putting her life in danger as well. Depending on Jason and his men to keep her safe. “I can do that.”


“Thank you.” Nudging his hips forward, his hardened @#%$ found her moist core. Her juices spread across his tip but he didn’t press forward any further. “So do you think you could give it a try. Give our marriage a chance?”


Running her hand softly over the five o’clock shadow along his jaw, Elizabeth felt the flutter in her chest. “Yes.” Her lips barely formed the word when Jason’s mouth came crashing down on hers. His tongue demanding entrance past her lips. At the same time he thrust deep inside of her. The shocking pleasure had her body arching off the bed, as a loud moan escaped from her throat.


“I’ll do my best to make sure you don’t regret your decision.” Whispering into her ear, his hands moving under her bottom to grip her as he moved in and out of her. Her walls tightened around him, gripping onto him tightly with every thrust.


“Jason, please.” Her legs moved higher over his hips, hooking behind his back so she could take him deeper. Their breathing came out in short gasps as the raced to the edge.


Freeing one of his hands, Jason pulled her leg even higher along his side. Nearly passing out from the sensation. “Elizabeth now.”


With one last thrust, Jason felt her insides spasm around him, milking out his orgasm. When he was able to think again he rested his forehead against hers, giving her a moment to relish in the afterglow before placing a loud kiss on her lips and pulling out. “Mrs. Morgan we have thirty minutes to be showered and dressed for dinner. How do you feel about sharing the shower?”


~~~**~~~


“What’s wrong with the two of you?” Sitting back in her chair, Emily crossed her arms across her chest and looked back and forth at her dinner companions. “Jason is that a smile on your face?” Joking, she narrowed her eyes and leaned closer. “It is!”


Elizabeth’s cheeks turned pink under her friends scrutiny, as she pretended to be really interested in the garnish on her plate. She was quiet certain it would be bad etiquette to tell her friend over baked stuffed haddock what a wonderful lay her older brother was. Plus there was the tiny little matter of needing to tell Emily that her temporary sister-in-law status was under review.


“Oh my god.” Emily’s loud words earned her several glares from other diners, that she blissfully ignored. “You two had sex. Again.”


“Emily.” Choking on his beer, Jason sent his sister a heated look as he wiped his mouth with the back of his hand.


“I don’t think they heard you in Brazil.” Humiliated, Elizabeth looked around to make sure no one was staring. “Why would you think that?”


“Well the biggest tip off is that Jason is smiling.” Her eyes wide, Emily gave a short grunt. “He never smiles.”


“That’s not true.” Finding the need to defend himself, Jason set his beer back down on the table with a loud crash. “I smile.”


“Not lately.” Emily disagreed. “But it’s no wonder. I’d find little to smile about with Calry around. And you.” Turning her attention to her best friend, Emily lowered her voice slightly. “Have been blushing like a satisfied bride since the salad.”


“Can we talk about this upstairs?” His voice hushed, Jason looked out of the corner of his eye to see Elizabeth’s reaction. “This isn’t something I want to talk about here.”


“Tough.” Emily shot back, her eyebrow raised. “Seeing that I don’t have a life I have to live through the two of you.” Her expression turning impish, Emily leaned forward. “So does this mean I need to actually by the two of you a wedding gift?”


Seeing that his sister wasn’t going to let the matter drop, Jason couldn’t help but chuckle. At least she wasn’t getting hysterical. “We don’t need any gifts Emily.”


“Wait until Mom and Grandmother find out.” Her eyes widened. “Where are you going to live? Is Elizabeth leaving CU? I don’t want to lose my friend.”


“Emily breath.” Elizabeth reached over and took the other female’s hand into hers. “We haven’t really talked about it. But I can’t expect Jason it give up his job so he can move to Boulder.”


Tears gathered in Emily’s eyes as she nodded her head slowly. “I guess not. You could always transfer to PCU.” Sniffing, the pretty brunette sat up straight. “So could I.” A large smile covered her face.


“I don’t want you to give up CU for me.” Elizabeth could read Emily’s mind. Moving back to Port Charles meant being closer to Johnny. It was a win-win situation. They wouldn’t have to be separated and Emily would be closer to the man who owned her heart.


“No really.” Grinning back at her friend and her confused brother, Emily picked up her napkin and patted her mouth. “I insist.”

[JRK Archiver]

Twenty-Seven



Dropping to her knees and throwing the blue blanket back, Emily cursed under her breath as she searched for her missing shoe. The day had started with a roaring start. Waking up late, getting shampoo in her eyes, then having one of the worst hair days known in the free world. She was supposed to be at Brenda’s and Sonny’s suite twenty minutes ago to meet with the seamstress. She’d be lucky to get there in time for the wedding.


All of this was Johnny’s fault. Invading her dreams and making her doubt her decision on moving back to Port Charles with Elizabeth. Who was she fooling. It didn’t matter if she moved closer to Johnny. It wouldn’t change anything. He’d still be a thick headed fool, who had his head shoved so far up his ass he probably could perform his own tonsillectomy. She could run around naked, with flowers in her hair and the words ‘I love you Johnny’ painted across her bare chest and he still wouldn’t give in.


“Where is my shoe?” Gritting her teeth in frustration, Emily tossed her limp ponytail over her shoulder and banged her head against the mattress.


“Emily?” Sitting up at the sound of Johnny’s voice, Emily made a face and hurried to her feet. What in the hell was he doing here? Francis had told her he would escort her to Sonny and Brenda’s.


Straightening her wrinkled outfit and with as much dignity as she could muster with one missing shoe, she made her way to the living room. Johnny was standing in the open doorway, looking uncomfortable. Well good. Because of him she had unattractive bags under her eyes. He should pay somehow.


“What do you want?”


“Francis had to run an errand and asked if I could take you up to Sonny’s.” Unable to look her in the eye, Johnny stepped further into the room and closed the door quietly behind him.


“By golly isn’t that sweet.” Grumbling under her breath, Emily limped across the room to stand directly in front of him. “Gee Johnny I think I am capable of making it to the elevator and to Sonny’s door without your help. I know I’m young, but I think I have numbers down pat. Just as long as I have my fingers to count on, I think I’ll be all set.” Walking past him to the door he’d just closed, Emily swung it open and looked over at him expectantly. “This is where you leave.”


Johnny’s face went from pink to red. His large hands clenched tightly at his side as he took two large steps to the door and wrenched it from Emily’s grasp. Without giving her another look, he slammed it hard enough to make the pictures bounce against the wall. “What do I have to do to get that giant Redwood removed from your ass? Do you think this is easy for me? Not being able to be with you. Being forced to watch you from a distance as other men drool all over you. Do you have any idea how badly I want to tear them limb from limb?”


“It’s not my fault.” Shouting back at him, Emily poked her finger into his chest. “I’m not the one who is keeping us apart. That would be you. With all your boys club rules and laws. That’s your life, not mine.”


“But if we got together it would be your life too. I can’t do that to you Emily. It’s bad enough your Jason Morgan’s little sister. What do you think would happen if you were my wife?” Grabbing Emily by her shoulders, he looked down at her intently. Trying to make her face the seriousness of the situation. “I’m only a guard.”


Releasing herself from his grasp, Emily choked on a humorless laugh. “Wife? Jesus dramatic much? We haven’t gotten past our second date and you’re talking about marriage.”


Taking a step away from her. His anger faded, leaving him drained. “But in the end that’s what I would want. I’m gonna go wait in the hallway.” Shoving his hands into his pockets, Johnny walked across the room. His head lowered. Leaving Emily to look after him in shock.


~~~~*~~~~**~~~~*~~~~**~~~~~*~~~~**~~~~~*~~~~**~~~~*~~~~**~~~~*~~~~


“Is that a zit?” Leaning closer to the bathroom mirror, Brenda peered at her reflection in horror. “Oh my god it’s a zit.” Her eyes flared as she pushed away from the counter. “The day before I get married I get a zit.”


Laughing at his bride to be, pacing the bathroom. Her hands flying in every direction, mumbling under her breath. He’d never seen her so beautiful. It was times like these that made him see just how much he loved her. When her face bare of any cosmetics. Her soft sable hair lose, cascading over her shoulders in a halo of curls.


“What are you screeching about now?” He teased as he slid up behind her to wrap his hands around her tiny waist.


“I have a zit. A big, pusey, ugly zit. How pretty is that?” Pulling out of his arms to look in the mirror again, she let out a sob and hung her head. “I’m a good person right?”


Not sure what she was getting at, Sonny knew enough about women to play along. “Of course you are.”


“And I’m giving and understanding.”


Chuckling Sonny kissed the side of her neck. “Of course you are.”


“Why are you laughing?” Turning around in his embrace, Brenda looked at him in outrage. “Are you laughing at me?”


“No.” Seeing he was about to get himself into hot water, Sonny’s expression turned serious.


“Well we’re going to have to postpone the wedding.” With a determined nod, Brenda turned back to the mirror and made a face.


“What?” Unable to believe what he was hearing. Sonny turned her back around. “We are not putting this marriage off again. I don’t care if you come down with the chickenpox. Tomorrow you will become Mrs. Corinthos.”


“But I look like Frankenstein. Glue a few bolts to the sides of my neck and paint me green I’ll be a dead ringer for him.”


“Brenda you are the most beautiful woman I have ever met.” Looking into her eyes in the mirror, Sonny stepped behind her. “No blemish can lessen what you mean to me.”


“Sonny?” Jason’s voice broke the moment.


Swatting his beautiful finance on her rear, Sonny gave her a dimpled grin. “Tomorrow. No more postponements. Are we clear?”


“Yeah.” Her eyes watered as she turned back to the man she loved with all her heart. “Tomorrow. You, me and my big zit.”


~~~~*~~~~**~~~~*~~~~~**~~~~~*~~~~**~~~~*~~~~**~~~~~*~~~~~**~~~~*~~~~


“Maybe we should come back later.” Turning back toward the door, Elizabeth felt as though she and Jason were intruding when no one was there to greet them. “Maybe they’re... busy.”


Giving her a knowing smile, Jason walked further into the room. “Sonny? Brenda?”


“Jason. Elizabeth.” Coming from the bedroom, Sonny looked relaxed for a man who was a day away from getting married. “Brenda will be out in a moment. Are you two hungry?”


Shaking her head, her face flaming. Elizabeth mumbled no thanks as visions of breakfast in bed flashed in her head. Who knew fruit covered waffles could be so... sexual? With all the silky whipped cream and large pieces of strawberries. She’d never be able to step foot into another Waffle House again.


“The seamstress will be here any minute.” Trying to keep his face straight, Sonny couldn’t help but notice the becoming blush that spread across Elizabeth’s face. It was a very telling and he couldn’t be happier for his best friend. He’d always known that someday Jason would find the right woman for him. When he did, it wouldn’t be any typical romance. “I thought us boys would find something to entertain us while you girls do your woman things.”


“Just as long as you don’t step foot into any sleazy stripbars.” Coming out of bedroom, Brenda walked over to Elizabeth and hugged her.


“What did you do to your chin?” Tilting his head to the side, Jason gave Brenda a strange look. A large band-aid covered most of her small chin.


“It’s nothing.” Mumbling under her breath, Brenda turned her back him and hurried over to the closet where the dresses she’d bought yesterday were hanging.


Unable to let it go, Jason blocked her from her goal. “Did you fall down?”


“Jason really it isn’t a big deal.” Looking over at Sonny, she immediately saw she wouldn’t get any help from him.


“Well if it isn’t a big deal then why don’t you just tell me.” Picking up on her discomfort, Jason relaxed knowing she hadn’t been injured. But now knowing it was something that was embarrassing her, he sure as hell wasn’t going to back off.


“Jason maybe she doesn’t want to tell you.” Giving her new friend a sympathetic smile.


“I don’t see what the big deal is.” Jason’s eyes nearly sparkled as he turned his entire attention on the ex-model. “Unless of course, she’s trying to cover up a zit.”


“You know what Jason.” Placing her hands on her slender hips, Brenda tilted her head to the side and glared. “It doesn’t amaze me you needed to get a girl sloshed to get her to marry you. With your natural wit and charm, I’m just surprised you didn’t need to hit Elizabeth over the head with a club and drag her by her hair to the nearest justice of the peace.”


“Ouch.” Placing a hand over his heart, Jason laughed. “So how big is it?” Reaching his other hand out for Brenda’s face, he laughed harder when she swatted it away.


“Will you just get him out of here?” Unable to keep the amusement from her voice, Brenda shoved her friend and fiancé toward the door. “Don’t forget the rehearsal dinner tonight. Six o’clock sharp.” Waving at the two men sweetly, Brenda closed the door in their faces before turning back to Elizabeth. “So would you like to tell me why Jason’s in such a teasing mood?”


Elizabeth froze, her eyes went wide just for a millisecond. She had the look of a deer caught in the headlights. Emily’s loud voice from the night before echoed through her head. What was it with Jason and smiling more? Was the man a monk before they met? “Maybe he’s happy?”


“Oh I bet he is.” Wiggling her eyebrows, Brenda noticed Elizabeth’s embarrassment. “Oh my god you two had sex...Again.”


Slapping her hands over her face, Elizabeth sunk down onto the couch behind her. “Is it that obvious?”


“Well at first I thought he was just happy because you two spent the day together alone yesterday. But now...” Moving her mouth to form words, it was Brenda’s turn to look like the deer. “Did you two get drunk?”


“No.” Elizabeth laughed. “It just sort of happened.”


“And you’re okay with it?” Brenda asked tentatively.


“Why wouldn’t I?”


“Well...” Brenda drawled. “You two did just meet. I just don’t want you two to rush into something that might make you feel awkward around him.”


Sucking her lower lip into her mouth, Elizabeth contemplated whether she should say something to Brenda. Or wait until Jason was with her. But Emily already knew and her friend wasn’t one to keep her mouth shut when it came to big news. So it was either she told Brenda in her own words. Or wait for Emily to open her yap and tell Brenda in a way that was guaranteed to embarrass the hell out of her.


“Jason and I talked about us last night.”


“And?” Sitting on the edge of the couch, holding her breath as she waited for Elizabeth to answer.


“We’re going to try and make it work.” Elizabeth answered quietly, looking down into her lap.


“I don’t know if I should smack you upside the head. Or welcome you to the family.”


“The hug would be nice.” Looking up, Elizabeth felt relieved at Brenda’s acceptance.


“You know this practically makes us sister-in-laws right?” Wrapping her arms around Elizabeth’s neck, Brenda hugged the younger girl tightly.


“I have something to say.” Emily slammed the door behind her, as she tossed her purse on a chair. “Men suck!”


~~~~**~~~~*~~~~**~~~~*~~~~**~~~~*~~~~**~~~~*~~~~**~~~~*~~~~**~~~~*~~~~


“Are you sure everything is ready?” Dropping a few ice cubes into her glass, Carly licked a drop of water from her fingertip. “Because there is no room for mistake. Once we take Little Bo Peep, Jason will tear this town from one end to another. It’s not in his nature to let poor defenseless woman to be put in danger.”


“I already told you.” Kurt sighed as he fingered the hem of her skirt. “Everything is set. Your high and mighty Morgan won’t know what hit him.”


“This is going to work out better than I ever imagined. Not only will I teach Jason I can’t be pushed aside. But this will ruin Princess Brenda’s wedding.” Swatting at Kurt’s hand, Carly sauntered across the room.


“I am wondering though.” Reclining lazily in is chair, Kurt eyed the venomous blonde. “What exactly are we gonna do with this Elizabeth chic when this is all over?”


Taking a sip of her drink, Carly spun the ice in her glass around before answering. “I don’t care what you do with her. Keep her, use her, kill her. Just as long as she never gets in my way again. That’s all that matters.”

[JRK Archiver]

Chapter Twenty-Eight

“Why are you so impatient?” Signaling to the dealer to give him another card, Sonny hid his wide grin behind on of his hands as Jason shifted again in his seat and checked his watch. “We have twenty minutes before we meet up with the girls.”


“I’m not anything.” Jason grumbled, already annoyed by Sonny’s endless barbs and jokes. Instead of being pulled into the conversation his friend had been trying to initiate for the last hour, he picked up the beer he’d been nursing and took a deep pull. Without looking at his cards he hit the table and took the card the uncomfortable man on the other side of the table slid to him.


“Will you stop scowling like a three year old?” Flipping over his cards, Sonny waited for the other players at the Blackjack table to do the same. The dealer showed his winning hand and took the chips before starting another round. “You’re scaring Tony here.” The dealer swallowed hard, looking ready to bolt at just the thought of being pulled into a conversation with the two intimidating men.


“Drop it Sonny.” Tossing a couple hundred dollar chips onto the table, Jason looked around for a waitress.


“How can I?” Not bothering to conceal his enjoyment at Jason’s expense, Sonny stacked his chips neatly and nodded at the dealer. “You’ve lost every hand. Perhaps if you actually looked at your cards you’d do better.”


His only response was a noncommital grunt, Jason flagged down a skimpily dressed cocktail waitress by holding up his empty bottle. Ignoring Sonny’s insistent stare, Jason flipped the corner of his card. “Hit me.”


“So are you gonna tell me how things with Elizabeth are going?”


“Are you going to tease me about it if I do?” Jason cocked a brow.


“I can’t promise anything. But if you don’t want to tell me I could always wait and ask Brenda.” Bringing his drink to his lips, Sonny took a slow sip. “You know how nosey my soon to be wife can be. She loves getting the juicy info and then share it. It’s like a disease with her.”


Not sure if he should be humored at his friends inquisitive nature. Or if he wanted to find a corner in a third world country to drag Elizabeth off to so they could have some privacy. Not that a few thousand miles could stop Brenda putting her nose into something that was none of her business. He may have cut his ties with the Quartermaine’s. Turning his back on every one of them expect Emily and Lila. Somehow he’d traded one family and had fallen right in the middle of another. Sad as it was he really couldn’t figure which one was more dysfunctional.


“We talked.” Sounding as though he had to force himself to speak, Jason gripped the beer bottle the waitress had set in front of him.


“Talking huh? Is that what they are calling it these days?” Sonny nodded, unable to pick on his friend. But seeing the hard look Jason sent him, Sonny put up his hands. “Sorry, go on.”


“We’re not going to get divorced.” Shifting in his seat, Jason felt uncomfortable. Usually, under normal circumstances he didn’t give a damn what other people thought. Right now though, nothing was normal. He knew his feelings for Elizabeth were a once in a lifetime kind of thing. Feeling as though he’d known her forever. Already he could feel a connection between them. Stronger than any bond he’d felt for anybody in his entire life.


Sonny wasn’t just his friend. But family. More than anything, Jason needed to know that Sonny would except her as a member of their family. Because it would be difficult if Sonny had any doubts about the marriage. Not that it would change anything, except maybe needing to find a new job.


Sonny took awhile to answer. The longer Jason waited the more on edge he got. Finally Sonny cleared his throat. “I like her. I trust that you told her of how dangerous our lives can be?”


Sandy brows lowered over his crisp blue eyes. “Not really, but something tells me she already knows. She knows about Michael though. Has no problem with it.” Seeing the tight expression on Sonny’s face, Jason felt his stomach tighten. “What?”


“She just seems so young to be thrown into the role of Mother.”


Jason’s jaw set as he stared across the casino. There was denying that Elizabeth was young. Hell she wasn’t even legal to drink yet. “I’m not giving her up.”


“I’m not asking you to. I can see it’s the real thing between the two of you. I’m just thinking out loud I guess. Have you talked about where you’re going to live?” Accepting the cards the dealer put in front of him, Sonny waited until Jason was dealt for his answer.


“I was thinking the cottage still. There’s going to be enough changes going on. Michael needs stability in his life. The least we can do is stay in the house he’s gotten used to.” Watching the dealer flip over his card, Jason sighed as his chips were removed from in front of him. So far he hadn’t won a single hand. Not surprising, seeing he hadn’t really been paying attention.


“So is she going to just leave in the middle of her semester?”


Another thing he really hadn’t thought about. So far it seemed as though Elizabeth was doing all the sacrificing. Moving, leaving school. Even when she transferred to PCU she was going to lose a semester. The thought didn’t sit well with him. Nether did the idea of her finishing out the semester in Colorado while he was in New York.


Finishing his drink, Sonny watched Jason frown out of the corner of his eye. “You know you and Michael could always join her in Boulder until summer. Give the three of you a chance to bond before having to face reality in Port Charles. Plus it keeps her out of the Quartermaine’s reach for a little while.”


If possible Jason’s frown deepened. “I hadn’t even thought of them wanting to meet her.” He should have. Elizabeth was going to become a target. A person his estranged family was going to see as a way of bringing him back. How was he going to explain to her that the last thing he wanted was to become tied to that mess again?


Snorting, Sonny leaned back in his chair. “Not that Edward would be able to pull the wool over her eyes.” Chuckling, he shook his head. “I have a feeling that Elizabeth could hold her own with the old man.”


A slow smile crept to Jason’s face. “She’ll probably have him sputtering and yelling on the top of his lungs in seconds.”


“Talk to Elizabeth. See what she says. I’m sure you can find a small house to rent until June.”


“I don’t want to abandon you. Not with everything that’s going on.” Shaking his head, Jason felt slightly disappointed. Some time alone with Elizabeth away from his hectic life in Port Charles sounded wonderful. But he had responsibilities. A coffee business to oversee. The other business to keep an eye on. He couldn’t just dump everything on Sonny to play family man. Even if the idea sounded like heaven.


“Bullshit. I ran things before I had the brilliant insight in hiring you. A few months with out you isn’t gonna kill me.”


“Like I said, talk to Elizabeth.” Checking his watch, Sonny pushed away from the table and stood. “We better get going before we have three women breathing down our necks.


~~~*~~~~**~~~~*~~~~**~~~~*~~~~**~~~~*~~~


“What do you think?” Turning slightly to look over her shoulder, Elizabeth examined the way the dress fell over her rear to her feet.


Chewing on her thumb nail, Brenda walked from one side to the other. “I wish we had the time to have the dresses specially made. Instead of off the rack.” Sighing, she picked the dress up a little before dropping it. “Bring it up just a little bit more.”


Ignoring the loud huff from the seamstress, Brenda looked over to where Emily was still pouting. “Are you going to be like this all day?”


“No.” Emily voice was cold as she looked away from Brenda’s amused expression. “The least you could do is feel outraged. Agree with me that Johnny is a jackass. Rant about the stupidity of the male species in general.”


“I don’t know why you’re putting yourself through this.” Picking up the discarded dresses laying around the living room and carried them over to the front closet. “If I were you I’d just tell Jason about Johnny. Let him know its not his life but you respect him enough to let him know.”


“Oh yeah, that might work. If I lived on a different planet and if I had Ward Cleaver for a brother.” Smirking at the thought, Emily rolled her eyes. “But I live on this planet and Jason Morgan, the Morg is my brother. I’ll be lucky to ever see Johnny in one piece again.”


Throwing her head back and laughing, Brenda looked over to Elizabeth and shared a knowing smile with the other female. “Emily it isn’t that bad. The most important things in the boys world is honor, loyalty and respect. Sneaking around with Johnny would break every one of those. You need to be honest with Jason if you ever want anything to happen with Johnny.”


“Right. So I have a heart to heart with my brother. Stand up to him about a relationship that doesn’t exist. With a guy who I make look like a big ole wimp cause he didn’t have the balls enough to tell Jason himself. There’s a way to win a man over.” Covering her face with her hands, Emily leaned her back against the couch.


“Hmm. I see your point. Johnny would look like a big pansy.”


“I don’t see why Johnny doesn’t just tell Jason that he’s interested in you. I think he’d understand.” Standing perfectly straight for the women kneeling on the ground repining the hem of her dress.


Emily and Brenda looked to one another before bursting out in laughter. Once they started they couldn’t seem to be able to stop. Soon their tears dried up and their laughing turned into giggles. “Oh Elizabeth, you have so much to learn still.”


“What?” With a short huff, Elizabeth crossed her arms over her chest. Only earning herself a dark look from the woman on the floor. Making her return to her original stance.


“Right now Jason may seem like a big teddybear. Sweet looks, boy like smiles.” Brenda’s smile slipped a little. “But there’s another man under that. One that can be pushy and demanding.”


“Not because he’s being mean.” Breaking in before Elizabeth got the wrong opinion, Emily looked over at Brenda. Giving her a look that clearly said not to get over dramatic.


“Not that at all.” Brenda hurriedly agreed. “He’s just like Sonny. Gets obsessed with the safety of the people in his life. Sometimes he goes overboard. Gets tunnel vision I guess you could say.”


“But what does safety have to do with Emily dating Johnny?” Elizabeth couldn’t tell what the big deal was.


“Just being Jason’s little sister puts her in danger. On top of that, if she became Johnny’s girlfriend. Well, it’s a double jeopardy. But that wouldn’t be the biggest problem.” It seemed weird to Brenda, having to explain the in and outs of the mob life with a mob wife. Usually the ABC’s were explained before the nuptials.


“Okay I’m lost.” Throwing her hands into the air, Elizabeth stopped and grinned at the frustrated woman with a mouthful of pins. “Sorry.” Only earing a glare, she decided not to push the lady.


“Johnny is a guard. Jason’s his boss.”


“Oh my god don’t tell me it’s like a class thing.” Unable to believe her ears, Elizabeth looked back and forth at her friends. “Come on, you’ve gotta be kidding me.”


“But we’re not the typical mob family. Personally I think given some time Jason would come to accept it.” Shrugging her slender shoulders, Brenda walked forward to look at the seamstresses finished product. “Better. Now get your skinny ass out of that dress. We have a rehearsal to get to.”

[JRK Archiver]

Chapter Twenty-Nine

It was something out of an action movie. The kind that Elizabeth had always detested. Mostly because the audience could see what was about to happen long before the idiots on the screen did. Predictable. Redundant. Had she been sitting watching her life she would’ve yelled out not to be a ninny. Not taking a bodyguard up to the fourteenth floor for the wedding rehearsal was just plain stupidity.


It had taken under five seconds from the moment they left the Corinthos’s penthouse, heading for the elevator for Elizabeth to get nabbed. Waiting for Emily and Brenda to go ahead of her, Elizabeth watched in shock as the bellboy, who’d been innocently leaning up against the back wall, burst into action. Just as Emily cleared the threshold, he pushed the ‘close’ button. Shutting the doors in Elizabeth’s face. The smirk on his face had barely registered when something slammed into the back of her head, at the base of her skull.


It was a simple plan to execute. Wait until the three females were stupid enough to leave the presence of anyone who could help them. Even a drooling idiot with an IQ of ten could have pulled it off. If she wasn’t tied up, a gag in her mouth and a splitting headache caused by the gash in the back of her head she might have laughed at it’s simplicity.


It was discouraging how she’d turned out to be the stupid blonde cheerleader who was always the first to be off’d.


Surrounded by sequence and feathers, Elizabeth could only gather she was in some storage area that housed the past costumes of some low cost, extremely flashy a Los Vegas show. Beside the two angry voices coming from somewhere behind her, the only other sound was the loud hum of some mechanical thingy. At first the whirling, cranking sounds drowned out most of what was being said. But soon their voices warred with one another, trying to out yell the other.


Funny. Here she was. Tied to a chair. Her hands numb. Heading pounding. And they were angry?
A woman sounded extremely pissed off. The male sounded defiant, almost condescending. Taunting the female, telling her he was the one with upper hand. Back and forth it went, almost like a ping-pong match, making Elizabeth’s head fuzzy and her stomach roll.


"Listen here, you little piece of nothing." The woman barked. "You are expendable. All I have to do is run to Jason, a few tears in my eyes and tell him how you kidnapped me. Thinking I was his new little wife. It wasn’t until you found your error that you went after little Miss Muffin face over there." Elizabeth sucked in a deep breath. She’d heard that nickname before. But where?


"Interesting theory princess. But here’s how it’s really gonna work. If you go run off with your little tale. I’ll be forced to supply some actual proof, that you’re nothing but a little, lying, fraud." The man paused and if possible the tension in the room seemed to mount. "I have three days worth of video tape I’m sure your hero Jason would just love to see. A little of this, mostly a lot of that. You sneaking around. You tying up the new Mrs. Webber. You and me in some really interesting positions. Which are my personal favorites."


"You sick bastard."


"I’m sick? Listen sweetheart, I’m not the twisted freak here. Allow me the pleasure to explain a few things to you. This Morgan guy, he doesn’t want you. Maybe he found you amusing between the sheets. But you’re washed out honey. Used up. Trash. The guy found a girl he can take home to Mom. I mean look at her. She’s pretty and young. Innocence just oozes from her. But the best part, she makes your man burn. Something I have a feeling you haven’t done in quiet awhile. Or at least not from what I’ve experienced."


Elizabeth listened, her cheeks burned as it dawned on her as to who the shrew was. Carly. Jason’s mentally unfit ex. It was disgusting to think of her as a mother to some cute little toddler. "So listen to me sweetheart. The plan has changed. No longer is this about you getting back at Morgan for dumping you. I don’t care who he’s married to. What matters to me is the large amount of green at the end of the rainbow. After that I’m out of here." Footsteps could be heard and Elizabeth shut her eyes. Not ready yet to confront whatever hell she’d stumbled into.


"Wakie. Wakie sunshine." Knuckles tapped ruthlessly on the top of her head, making the pain shoot all the way to the back of her skull. But no matter how badly she wanted to cry out, something deep inside told her to play possum.


"You didn’t need to hit her so damn hard." Carly snapped.


“I thought you said you didn’t care what happened to the little lamb.” This time Elizabeth nearly screamed when a hand gripped around her loose ponytail and jerked her head back.


“No I said I didn’t care what happened once Jason had learned his lesson. I don’t see how she can call Jason if she’s half-dead.” The hand relaxed and let her head drooped back to her chest. "By the way it’s still fifty-fifty."


"Seventy-thirty." The man didn’t take anytime in answering.


"Fifty-fifty."


"Unless you want to be tied up next to our little guest, I suggest you take what I’m offering. Your mistake was taking me for some brainless idiot. No need to look so shocked. I have to admit my ability to really dumb it up for you even went past my expectations. Honestly, this is my best work ever."


"Wait... You played me? That’s impossible -."


"Took you long enough to catch on. Now I can’t take credit for all of it. I’ve been waiting for something huge to cross my path. Just didn’t plan on it dropping into my lap. So in a way, I guess I do owe you a big huge thank you."


What came next, Elizabeth only could guess was the sound of the Carly’s hand connecting with the man’s face. What she didn’t expect was for Carly’s cry of pain that followed and the sound of a body hitting the floor.


"I never really liked you all that much." The man muttered.


Repeating to herself that she had to remain calm, Jason probably already knew she was missing. Which meant the guards were probably tearing through the hotel like bats out of hell. Thinking of Jason’s over powering presence made some of the pain in her body fade away, until she felt everything slip from her one by one. Until it was only her, and the image of Jason in her head.

~~~~~*~~~~

"Do you mind repeating that?" Jason stood in disbelief, as Johnny stared back at him. The guard’s expression near panicked.


"Elizabeth is missing."


Looking over at Sonny in some half hope that this was all some huge joke, Jason felt his stomach drop before his head had a chance to catch up. They’d been waiting for the girls for the rehearsal when Max had called. Without wasting a second, both men had hurried down to the suite.


“I told you that Bellhop closed the door in Elizabeth’s face on purpose.” Brenda cried out as she put her hands in front of her face.


Emily could only blink. The entire vacation had been one twist after another. But never at any time had she really felt as though any of them had been in danger. In the past she’d seen what it was like for her brother and Sonny when things got ‘heated’ up in their lives. This. Well, this had been just a step away from real life.


Looking around the room at the worried faces, Jason felt a horrible urge to laugh. Mostly at himself for ever thinking he could keep someone like Elizabeth safe from the darkness in his life. This is what he got for relaxing. For allowing himself for letting his guard down and enjoying himself.


Once he found Elizabeth, he’d have someone’s ass for the lack of security. Would tear the man’s nuts off who was supposed to be standing at the door but couldn’t seem to keep his ass put. Right now though; he needed to let go of some of the anger that pumped like fire through his veins. "Has there been a ransom call yet?"


"Not yet.” Handing Jason a small package, Johnny glanced quickly towards Emily’s ghost white face. “But this was dropped off as I was coming up."


Tearing the paper away, Jason stared down at videotape. A sick feeling weighed heavily in his stomach. “Is there a VCR -?”


“Max has one coming up now Jason.”


A soft sob came from Emily’s mouth when her eyes landed on the black case in his hands. “Johnny, can you take Emily back to her room please? Post one of the guys at her door.”


“I’m not leaving.” Even though her voice was weak, Jason could hear her stubbornness. “Elizabeth’s my best friend. I’m not going to be shuffled off somewhere.”


“Emily,” Pinching his nose in pure frustration, Jason reminded himself that she was his little sister. Not some employee who was bulking at an order. “What ever is on this tape may not be pretty.”


“I understand that.” Emily’s tone became a little stronger. “I’m not leaving.” She repeated.


“Fine. But Emily I want you to know that some things may be said here -.”


“Remains here.” Standing up, her head held high. Emily walked the short distance to her brother and laid a hand over one of his that clutched the tape in a death grip. “I want whoever did this to pay.”


Nodding, Jason sucked in a deep breath, his eyes found Sonny’s and both men stared at one another in understanding. They would tear this town apart to find the people responsible for this. But they would tear apart the world until they found Elizabeth.