Dream a Little Dream

Chapter 15

As usual, Amanda Barrington was the first to arrive. It was so she'd get the prime sofa spot for gawking and gossiping, Ned thought.

Amanda gave her usual warm greeting to the family – Justus saw her eyes darting around anxiously to see if Michael was lurking about, followed by the relief that he wasn't – then beamed at Jason. She still looks like a 1940s movie star, he thought. Time hadn't dimmed her beauty or grace.

“This is an absolute joy, young man,” she said, drawing him into her arms and giving him a gentle kiss. “Your grandparents are very happy right now.”

“Thank you, Mrs. Barrington,” Jason said, hiding the catch in his throat at the mention of Edward and Lila, the only woman who could beat Mrs. Barrington for elegance and pure class. “It's very good to see you, too.”

“Where is Tracy?” Mrs. Barrington asked.

“She'll be down shortly,” Alan replied. “She had car trouble coming home from picking up her outfit for tonight, and the tow truck company not only took two hours to get to her, they dropped her and the car off at a garage that was closed and just took off! Can you believe that? Leaving a woman alone in a neighborhood with nothing but bars and deserted auto shops all around! I had to go get her. She'll have the owner's head on a silver platter by 9:30 Monday morning.”

“How dreadful!” Mrs. Barrington said. “Standards of service have fallen terribly. It's a sad thing.”

A waiter came over with a tray of drinks, including sparkling water for AJ, Skye and Alan, and a glass of champagne for Mrs. Barrington. She took it, and went just where Ned predicted, to the sofa, where Lorenzo talked with her about university doings.

He'd be perfect for my Allison, Mrs. Barrington thought as she looked over Lorenzo's shoulder at Jason.

Tracy came down from upstairs. Justus let out a whistle of approval for her outfit – a tomato red silk beaded tank top and pants in the same color, lined in silk with a top layer of sheer fabric in crystalline pleats. Red sandals were on her feet, and her toes were painted to match the outfit. Large, teardrop-shaped diamonds were anchored to her ears by smaller diamond studs.

“Wow!” Monica said with unfeigned delight. “That outfit might just have been worth car trouble! Tracy, you look fabulous!”

Tracy did a model-like spin at the bottom of the stairs, then laughingly struck a pose.

“Are you sure you didn't rush too much, Tracy?” Alan asked. “It's still early.”

“I'm fine, brother dear,” she said, waving a greeting to Lorenzo and Mrs. Barrington. “Sending Alice up was a good idea. She took care of getting my outfit ready while I showered, and gave me a pedicure while I put on my makeup. So I didn't have to rush at all. And thank you for the supper,” she added, with a kiss on Alan's cheek.

Alan knew Tracy was furious over her treatment at the hands of the tow truck company, and hated being rushed to get ready for a party. So he'd asked Cook before leaving to pick her up to make Tracy a supper of Lila's chicken salad recipe, with a fruit cup topped with several maraschino cherries. Cook knew what that meant, which is why he always kept cold chicken and maraschino cherries on hand. It had always been Tracy's comfort meal, and never failed to soothe. Hearing what happened as Alan was rushing out, Alice suggested she help Tracy dress, and Alan gratefully accepted the offer. Keeping Tracy in a good mood was one way to avert disaster. It worked so well that Tracy forgot to ask if Michael was chained to the radiator.

Monica beamed at her husband. “Good job,” she whispered to him as Tracy went over for Ned's kiss and to take her place in line.

Guests started coming fast and furious. Jason was glad to see Robin, and was delighted to meet Anna. Karen arrived soon afterward. “We'll talk after you greet everyone,” she said.

“Where's Rhonda?” AJ said.

“She's helping a friend tonight,” Karen said. “She said she'd try to make it later, but not to count on her.”

Rhonda's drinking problem had been a problem throughout Karen's growing-up. But, several years ago, Rhonda finally decided she'd had enough and joined AA. While she and AJ weren't in the same group, they supported each other and said the Serenity Prayer together every morning before they started work.

Cameron and Alexis entered. Alexis was in a simple silver sheath, with diamond studs in her ears and a platinum and diamond tennis bracelet. Alexis hugged Monica, knowing how special this evening was for her, celebrating Jason's return. She'd give her right arm to have her sister Kristina with her tonight.

Zander was next, and he went in with his father and Alexis as Emily had to stay in the hall and greet guests. He'd lost his breath over her pretty white dress. After looking at those engagement rings the other day, Zander took her attire as another happy omen for their future.

Scott Baldwin and Stefan Cassadine had arrived at the same time, and walked in together. They were talking about Stefan's proposal for the baseball team, stopping only to greet the assembled Quartermaines. “Sounds like your plan is catching on,” AJ said to Stefan. Scott had changed little since Jason had saw him last. Stefan greeted Emily coolly; no one saw the one dark, meaningful glance he gave her after seeing Zander in the parlor with Cameron and Alexis, looking happy and carefree. She lifted her chin defiantly. Nikolas would handle this.

Lee and Gail Baldwin came a few minutes after Scott. Gail was still impeccable, Jason saw as she embraced Monica and Alan joyfully. Jason noted that Lee looked more stooped and frail, but his voice was still that hearty lawyer's voice. Karen instantly was at his side, and devoted herself to getting him a sparkling water and some hors d'ouevres. It was sweet to see her so happy with her family after everything she'd suffered at the hands of her mother's drinking and boyfriends, then Sonny Corinthos.

Jason turned to see Luke and Laura enter. Luke had aged – his shaggy blond locks had been replaced by a close crop of spiky white hair, and the face was more grizzled with time and some rough experiences. But he still had the bon vivant in him, the sardonic amusement at life. Laura still looked like the calm eye in the storm, her sweet face unchanged, her smile still lighting up the room. She wore a sleeveless beaded sheath dress in creamy white with a plunging neckline. They greeted Jason warmly, sending Lucky's regards and inviting him to come to the Haunted Star soon.

“I don't know,” Jason said. “I really don't know much about gambling.”

“All the better,” Luke said with a grin.

Bobbie entered in a slinky crimson dress, the one she'd been living on salads most of the week to get into. Her auburn hair was curled and spilled loose around her shoulders. She first looked at Carly, and saw with relief that she and AJ looked happy, then saw Michael was nowhere to be seen.

“You look wonderful, Jason!” she burbled. “Coming home has done wonders for you.”

“Thanks, Bobbie,” he said with a kiss. As Bobbie walked towards the parlor, John Durant walked in. Carly had invited him, so Jason could meet her father. Bobbie watched from the parlor as John chatted with the Quartermaines. She hoped he'd like her outfit. She wanted to engage him as soon as he walked in, but Mrs. Barrington leaned in for a conversation and Bobbie got distracted.

Mac and Felicia Scorpio, and Kevin and Lucy Collins, arrived next. Seeing their familiar faces, practically unchanged, was comforting to Jason. Lucy gushed over his outfit, while Felicia hugged him.

Right after they went into the living room, Jason saw Jax walk in. He was in all white, which set off his tan. Standing next to him was a man Jason had never seen. “That must be Jax's brother, Jerry,” AJ whispered. “Jax said he was bringing him.”

But who was that crouching behind them? Jason had little time to wonder, as Brenda charged out, pushing Jax and Jerry aside, and leaped into Jason's arms, wrapping her legs around his waist. Laughing and crying, she covered his face in kisses. Jason whirled her around, laughing like a kid. Still wrapped around him, Brenda took his face in her hands and looked into those sweet blue eyes, so long shut from the world. Her eyes welled again.

“This is the best!” she said, wiping her eyes. “And thank God for waterproof mascara!” She hugged him hard.

“Any other man, I'd be challenging him to a duel right now,” Jax said. “It's great to see you, Jason.”

“You, too, Jax,” Jason said. “I'd shake hands, but they're a little full right now,” he added, patting Brenda's behind. Brenda laughingly climbed off Jason. She was gleaming in a high-necked gold halter top covered in gold paillettes, dangly gold earrings, gold slacks, and beaded gold thong sandals. Ned handed Jason a handkerchief to wipe the lip gloss off his face.

Jax introduced his family to Jerry, who was greeted warmly. “Any brother of Jax is a friend of ours,” Alan said.

“Thank you, Dr. Quartermaine,” Jerry said, shaking hands. “I look forward to getting to know you all.”

They went into the parlor.

“Wow, some really fine redheads here!” Jerry said in a low voice, noticing Skye in the hall and Bobbie in the parlor.

“Still got the old weakness, hey, Brother?” Jax asked. “I'd have thought that Irish lass would have cured you of that.”

“No, but it cured me of any love for the Emerald Isle,” Jerry said with a grimace. “I narrowly escaped the accursed place before her father put a load of buckshot in my bum.”

Nikolas Cassadine walked in. He'd thought about calling and pleading work, or illness or something, anything, to avoid having to be around Stefan. But the Cassadine pride, and the desire to see Emily, prevailed. No way was he going to let his uncle dictate his life. He figured he could suck it up and make small talk with Stefan when Alexis was around. Other than that, he would stick firmly with the younger crowd.

He greeted the Quartermaines, and was introduced to Jason. He handled it smoothly, then got to Emily. Her white dress was stunning, and an image of the day she would be his flamed in his mind. He leaned in for a friendly kiss. “You're beautiful,” he whispered. Emily smiled calmly. She'd spent the afternoon alone in her room, preparing for a night of wretched pretense. But everything in her screamed to wrap herself around Nikolas and never let go. But then Audrey Hardy came in, which gave Nikolas an excuse to head into the parlor.

Audrey's placid face shone as she saw Jason. He wondered who the man with her was, if the family knew him, but Monica settled that with a cry of , “Why, Jeremy!”

“This is a surprise!” Alan said, shaking Jeremy's hand. “When did you get into town?”

“I got in on Monday,” Jeremy said. “Since then, I've been taking some well-deserved do-nothing time. I've slept past nine, spent lots of time lounging in Aunt Audrey's back yard, played basketball with Tommy, ate like a horse and went fishing.”

“Sounds like you've earned a break, from what I've been reading in the papers,” AJ said. “Feel free to drop in any evening. We could have a cookout.”

“Sounds like a plan,” Jeremy said. “And, I wanted to thank you all for the very generous contribution you made to the nursing scholarship General Hospital set up in my mother's memory. It meant a great deal.”

“Your mother was a fine woman, and a credit to her profession,” Monica said. “She's missed a great deal.”

“Jeremy, this is my brother, Jason, tonight's star,” Emily said sweetly. “Jason, this is Jeremy Logan. His mom, Anne, was a nurse at General Hospital when you were a boy. He's Mrs. Hardy's great-nephew.”

Jason shook hands with Jeremy. “Nice to meet you,” he said. “You don't live near here, I take it?”

“No, I live near Seattle,” Jeremy said. “I'm in the computer business.”

Tracy rolled her eyes at Jeremy's modesty.

“We'll get inside now,” Audrey said. “I see Mrs. Barrington is waiting for us.” She took Jeremy into the parlor.

“Well, I think that's it,” Alan said to the assembled Quartermaines. “Now let's go have us a party!”

Alan put his arm around Monica and led the family into their party.

* * *

Over at Lesley's house, the scene was controlled chaos. Empty pizza boxes were piling up on the kitchen floor next to the trash can and recycling bins.

Tommy Hardy was introduced to everyone by a beaming Maxie. Diego concealed his jealousy well. Tommy announced that he preferred to go by TJ, admitting that asking his older relatives and friends to break the old Tommy habit might be too hard, and everyone went along.

After the first wave of pizza-eating, they lounged in the living room. Brooke Lynn sang, harmonizing with Diego, who had a fine tenor, on a few songs. Maxie was impressed. She'd never heard him sing. Diego secretly thrilled to the look on her face.

Serena was French-braiding Lulu's hair as Lulu chatted with her and Lucas. TJ, Diego and Maxie talked about the coming fall term at PCU. Dillon and Georgie cuddled, but nothing else under Lesley's watchful eye. Then Dillon popped in a movie. He'd chosen a classic postwar film, “The Best Years of Our Lives,” because he knew the girls and Lesley would love it. And they did.

“Boy, that Homer guy sure was brave,” Lucas said. “He had to overcome a lot.”

“The guy that played him, Harold Russell, had never acted in a Hollywood movie before,” Dillon said. “He'd lost his hands during the war – a box of explosives blew up as he was holding them. He got the hooks, and did a training film for the military. William Wyler, the movie director here, saw him in it and decided to change the role of Homer from someone with post-traumatic stress to a double amputee, and cast Russell. He got not one, but two Oscars for the role – Best Supporting Actor, and a special award from the Academy for being an inspiration to veterans. He sold his best supporting Oscar in the 90s to pay for his wife's medical bills. He died a few years ago.”

“A lot of guys coming home from Iraq are in similar situations,” TJ said. “They've got a hard fight ahead of them. My dad saw a lot of that when he was in Somalia.”

“Myrna Loy was so beautiful,” Lesley said. “A classic beauty that didn't go away as she got older – like Mrs. Quartermaine or Mrs. Barrington.” Dillon and Brooke beamed at the mention of Lila in such a nice way.

“Wilma and Peggy were wonderful,” Maxie said. “They were both brave and strong in their own way. Wilma wouldn't give up on Homer, no matter how he pushed her away. And Peggy stuck to her principles, even though it could have meant losing someone like Fred forever.”

“I could see why he married Marie the way he did,” Diego said. “Here he is, going to war as a bomber pilot, facing the strong likelihood of death, and there's this woman, crackling with life. No wonder he grabbed her. Didn't hurt that she was hotter than pico de gallo. But when he came home, the war had changed him, but not her. I wonder how many people our age that are in the military are jumping into marriage now, and how it'll affect them once they come home.”

“Who's ready for a poker game?” Lulu said.

Dillon, Lucas, Diego and Serena jumped up and went to the table.

“I've been looking forward to this,” Dillon said, rubbing his hands with glee. “I owe you from the last time, Lulu.”

“Bring it on!” Lulu said with a laugh as she shuffled the cards.

* * *

A jazz trio was tucked in one corner of the patio. The music made for a lively mood. The grounds near the house were lit up. It was still very warm, so most guests who went outside stuck to the patio, the garden, or the grounds near the front yard, where there was more of a breeze. Floating candles glowed in the pool, but the trees close around it on three sides kept the breeze out, so few people ventured up there for long. Many of the older guests stuck with the air-conditioned indoors.

“I'm sorry Lucky couldn't make it tonight,” Jason said to Luke and Laura. Kevin and Lucy sat nearby. They were all sitting on wicker chairs at the edge of the patio, next to the rose garden.

“Yeah, our Mr. Type A doesn't like to leave the restaurant on a Saturday night,” Luke said.

“He works so hard,” Lucy said. “Too hard, with the restaurant, the agency and the rescue squad.”

“He wouldn't have it any other way,” Laura said with a sigh, and a regretful thought over Elizabeth. Lucky had told her that they were moving on, away from each other. “But, like Lucy, I worry, too.”

“He said you stopped by the other night with Carly,” Luke said to Jason.

“Carly put an idea in my head and we talked it over with Lucky,” Jason said. “I'm going to take classes and join the county rescue squad as a volunteer.”

“Good for you!” Kevin said.

“I figured I could do it while I'm figuring out what to do with my life,” Jason said. “Medicine's out because of some damage from the accident, so I have to find something else to do.”

“You will,” Laura said with a smile. “And you're just the kind of person they need – strong, compassionate, smart. You'll do great.”

“Thanks,” Jason said. “Excuse me, please. I see my father beckoning.”

* * *

“Hello, Nikolas,” Stefan said, without a trace of the past week in his voice. Nikolas rose to the challenge. Nothing was to be shown in front of Alexis.

“Uncle,” he said. “Quite a party here. Did you see my mother?”

“Yes,” Stefan said. “She told me about some of Deception's latest works. She seems well and happy. Have you been to see Lulu yet?”

“I dropped in at Lesley's yesterday,” Nikolas said. “Lulu hasn't changed – still as vivacious as ever. She asked after you all.”

“She's such a great kid,” Alexis said. “For all of Laura and Luke in her, I also see a lot of Lesley. I'll have to have her over while she's here. Kristina adores her.”

Nikolas was already weary of pretending. He pretended to catch Robin's eye.

“Excuse me, I'm going to go over and see Robin,” he said, and walked away with a sigh of relief.

“Nikolas looks tired,” Alexis said worriedly, and added in a whisper, “Did you speak to him about the financial irregularities?”

Stefan nodded.

“He said he would take care of it by the time the next statement rolled around.,” he said. “It's up to him, now.”

“I hope he doesn't worry and brood too much about it,” Alexis said. “I won't bring it up again, unless it's unresolved next month.”

“A good plan,” Stefan said.

Jeremy walked over.

“Mr. Cassadine, it's good to finally meet you,” he said.

“As it is for me to meet you, Mr. Logan,” Stefan said, shaking hands with Jeremy. “Mr. Logan, this is my sister Alexis Davis-Lewis. Alexis, this is J.H. Logan, Mrs. Hardy's great-nephew.”

“It's good to meet you, Mrs. Lewis,” he said, offering his hand. Alexis took it.

“Same here, Mr. Logan,” she said. “I've read about your work in the papers. I didn't know you were connected to Port Charles, however.”

“Yes, I spent some of my childhood here,” he said. “I cannot believe the changes that have come to this town since I was last here. I know your family and its businesses are a large part of those changes.”

The three talked long about the Waterfront District. Stefan mentioned his proposal of bringing a baseball team to the city. Zander, passing by, heard this and his eyes lit up. He was a huge baseball fan. And he'd love to get into sports management. His model was the New England Patriots, headed by owner Robert Kraft, head coach Bill Belichick and player personnel chief Scott Pioli. He had long admired their team concept, and commitment to winning while managing in the NFL's strict salary cap. Stefan saw his interest and drew him into the conversation, introducing him to Jeremy. Alexis was touched by Stefan's friendship with Zander. Her brother had grown so much since they'd been freed of Helena.

“I notice your glass is empty, Zander,” Stefan said. “Mine is, too. Come with me and we'll get some more. Excuse us, Alexis, Mr. Logan.”

They walked over to the bar. Zander ordered a Courvoisier, as did Stefan.

“Good taste,” Stefan commented. “Zander, I was wondering if you would come see me at my loft tomorrow. I have something very important to discuss with you.”

“Sure, Stefan,” Zander said. “Would noon be all right? I think we'll all want to sleep in after tonight.”

“That sounds fine,” Stefan said. “I'll see you then.” Zander went over to talk with AJ.

There. He'd done it. There was no going back. He would be the one to break the cruel news of Emily's and Nikolas' duplicity to Zander. It was sickening. A fine young man, Stefan thought, his eyes sad. He doesn't deserve this.

The Rubicon crossed, Stefan was able to put it out of his mind. He went over to continue his conversation with Alexis and Jeremy, who had been joined by Justus.

* * *

Bobbie tried not to pout because John had been engrossed in conversation with Scott and Lee since he'd arrived. She didn't want him to notice that she'd noticed his lack of attention. So she went over to where Carly, Anna, Brenda and Robin were seated on the patio. Anna had worn the plum wrap dress she'd bought on the shopping trip with Robin and Sam, pairing it with silver stiletto heels. Robin was in the vintage red crinolined dress, with red beaded slippers. Her hair was pulled up in a riot of curls.

“Hi, Mom!” Carly said. “Some night!”

“It's beautiful,” Bobbie said. “Jason looks wonderful. Alan told me about what you'd suggested to Jason about volunteering with the rescue squad. That was a fabulous idea!”

Robin and Brenda nodded agreement.

“Thanks,” she said. “It was just an impulsive idea that flashed into my head. I'm glad it might work out.”

“How's he been around home?” Brenda asked.

“He's been good,” Robin said. “But ...”

“What do you mean, 'but,'” Brenda demanded. Robin hesitated, looking down for a moment.

“I saw him every day while he was in the hospital,” she said. “And we've gotten together a few times since he's been home. I see him looking at me weird sometimes. It's like he expects something more out of me.”

“Something romantic?” Brenda wondered.

“Noooo, not that,” Robin said. “Like he expects me to understand and get him in ways I didn't before the accident. Like we're connected now in a way that we weren't.”

“You too?” Carly asked impulsively. Robin stared.

“I've gotten that vibe pretty strong,” Carly confessed. “And it's weirder than Robin because they were friends before ... you know. He and I didn't know each other at all.”

“That's strange,” Brenda said with a puzzled look. “I wonder what it means.”

“Maybe it's that Robin and Carly are two of the few people around him that weren't connected with what happened to him,” Bobbie guessed. “Maybe he feels more comfortable with you two because of that.”

Robin looked thoughtful.

“It makes sense,” she said slowly.

“It sounds like logic to me, which may not be saying much,” Carly said with a laugh.

“So, Brenda, this was a nice surprise having you come home,” Bobbie said. “How long are you staying? I hope we can all get together again while you're here.”

“I'm not sure,” Brenda said. “We have some business to take care of here ...”

“What sort of business?” Robin asked.

So Brenda told of her and Jax's infertility, and their decision to adopt.

“We've got a long road ahead of us, but if it works out, I'm leaving the casino and coming home to Port Charles,” she said. “Jax and I are looking at property tomorrow where we may build a house.”

“That's wonderful!” Carly said. She'd always liked Robin after the way she'd helped Carly through the tough days of her pregnancy, with AJ serving his sentence for much of it. Brenda, she took to because she was an old family friend who understood the Quartermaine quacks as well as anyone inside the family, and, because of Jax, wasn't a threat to her.

“You're coming home!” Robin crowed. “I can't wait to be an auntie!”

Bobbie squeezed Brenda's hand.

“I know it will work out beautifully,” she said. “And I speak from experience. I adopted twice myself.”

Brenda's eyes filled.

“Thank you, all of you,” she said. “I can't wait to share this whole experience with my friends. I know I'll be coming to you, Carly, and you, Bobbie, for lots of parenting advice.”

“So, you told 'em?” Jax said, breezing up to the group with Ned and Jerry behind him. Brenda took his hand. “Yes,” she said. “And they're just wonderful.”

“As if they'd be anything but,” Jax said, beaming on the women. “Ladies, I'd like you to meet my brother Jerry. You met Carly already, of course. This is Robin Scorpio, her mother Anna Devane, and Bobbie Spencer. If our plans for adoption go through, I intend to travel a lot less. Jerry will be taking over a lot of those duties at Jax Enterprises.”

“Hi, Jerry, good to meet you,” Robin said, holding out her hand. Jeremy kissed it gallantly, doing the same for Anna.

“I remember your father,” Jerry said to Robin. “I helped him out on an international fraud case once. A good man.”

“That he was,” Anna said. Robin smiled.

“Thank you,” she said. She imagined Robert at the party, laughing with her and Anna, going off with Luke to share amusement at the Quartermaine follies. Oh, how she wished she knew what had happened to him for sure.

Jerry turned to Bobbie and kissed her hand, too. Her brown eyes sparkled.

“May we join you?” he asked.

“By all means,” Brenda said, with a meaningful glance at Jax, then to Jerry, who pulled up a chair next to Bobbie, and back again. Jax rolled his eyes.

“Here we go again,” he whispered to her as he sat down.

* * *

Jason found himself being passed around the party like a Thanksgiving turkey. Everyone wanted to talk with him.

He was glad when he was able to break free for a moment and get a drink at the bar, an ice-cold beer. Felicia was there, getting a brandy for Mac and a martini for herself.

“Hi, Felicia,” he said. “I've been wanting to talk with you.”

“Sure, Jason, what's up?” she asked.

“I wanted to thank you for writing Grandmother's memoirs,” he said. “Coming back to find she was gone was ... horrible. But reading your book, it was almost like she was back here with me for a little while. I got to know her in ways I never did before. It means a lot to me.”

Felicia kissed him.

“I was honored that Lila trusted me to do it,” she said. “She told me once she'd always hoped that, if she died before you woke up – and she knew you would, with every fiber of her being – you would be able to feel close to her again through her memoirs.”

Jason smiled. Grandmother had an unshakable faith.

“Did you know Dillon made a DVD of your grandfather, interviews with him?” she asked. “It took him forever to get Edward to consent to sit for them. But after your grandmother ... he knew that he wanted to leave something for you and future generations. He wanted you all to really know him, and the Quartermaine tradition, and be proud of it. Ask Dillon about it when he gets home.”

“Thanks again, Felicia,” he said. “I think they're both somewhere, watching, now, and loving tonight. Their family, their friends, all together. They both loved nights like this, no matter how much Grandfather fussed over getting dressed up, or the cost.”

* * *

It was bedtime at Gia's house. They turned off the TV and padded upstairs to bed.

After they'd reached their room, Elizabeth whispered to Sam of what she'd done to Gia's bed. She cracked open the guest room door, and they watched the light under Gia's closed door. A few minutes later, it went off.

“Three ... two ... one ...” Elizabeth whispered as Sam smothered a giggle.

“ELIZABETH, YOU LITTLE SH--” was all they heard before dissolving in hysterical laughter.

“Good night, Gia!” Sam and Elizabeth sing-songed in a Waltons-esque duet.

* * *

Tracy detached herself from the conversation with Audrey Hardy, Amanda Barrington and Gail Baldwin. She'd had enough of the gaggle of old hens gossiping about their children. She wandered over to where John Durant, Scott and Lee were talking.

“Is this a legal conversation or can a lay person join in?” she asked.

“By all means,” Scott said, pulling up a chair for her. “Thanks,” she said, and sat down.

“It can be a problem for a landlord, dealing with Section 8 tenants,” John said, resuming the conversation. “It's dependable, steady income, but you have to deal with a lot of beaurocracy. Sounds like Coleman's tangled up in it.”

Tracy kept a cool face.

“What are you talking about?” she asked.

“You know Coleman, the guy that works with Lucky Spencer over at Vagabond,” Scott said. She nodded. “He's the one I was talking to when I was coming into Cassadine's meeting the other day. He'd decided to rent out the two flats in the building he owns to Section 8 tenants. He figured it was easy, guaranteed money, and liked the idea of giving a leg up to people who were poor like he was as a kid. Most of the time, it is a good thing for both the landlord and the tenant. But now he's having problems. The downstairs tenants are fine – a middle-aged couple with the wife on disability. He works full-time, but it's not enough to live on with her medical bills. They're clean, quiet and take care of the place fine. But the upstairs tenant is causing him trouble.”

“What sort of trouble?” Tracy asked.

“He rented it to a single mother with two young kids,” Scott continued. “It was fine at first. But a few months ago, her sister and her sister's two teenaged kids moved in with her. And the place is getting trashed – they've already broken the stove once and the carpet is ruined, he said. He thinks the two teenagers are camping out in the living room. Their friends are over a lot, and they play their music until late. The noise is upsetting the lady downstairs, who's stuck home all day. Even if they all moved out tomorrow, it'll cost him thousands of dollars to fix the place up again for another tenant. Coleman's tried to talk with her about it, but she insists her sister is 'just visiting for the day,' or the weekend, or whatever. And Coleman's getting no help from the government.”

“Coleman based the rent he charges based on how many people he thought would be in the house,” John explained to Tracy. “He pays the water bill, and six people – two of them teenagers – use a hell of a lot more water than one adult and two little kids. The water bills must be eating him alive.”

“So can you help him?” Tracy asked Scott.

“I think so,” he said. “I've been talking it over with John. If Coleman can get proof that the sister is using the apartment as her legal address, he'll have grounds to have the sister and the teenagers evicted. He doesn't want to make trouble for the two little kids, so he's hoping to avoid that route because it means they and their mother could face eviction, too, for violating the rules.”

“He's too soft,” Tracy scoffed. “Maybe if he was able to just muscle them a little, to get them to do what he wants...”

“That's what I was thinking,” Scott said. “It'd save Coleman a lot of time and legal bills. I'm having a credit check run on the sister. If she has anything – a bank account, charge card, cell phone bill, whatever – that has his house as her legal address, that's all the proof he needs. I told him if it comes through, that I'd go with him when he talks to them. A little official presence couldn't hurt. I figure if I cite the law, and drop John's name once or twice, that may be enough to get the sister and her kids out of there.”

“That's a good idea,” Tracy said.

Stupid idiot, Tracy thought. I warned him not to do this, that it'd just ruin his investment. Maybe next time he'll listen to me. Then she remembered they hadn't spoken since their spat at his place. Maybe there won't be a next time. That hurt worse than she would admit.

“So, Tracy, what did you think of Cassadine's Field of Dreams?” Scott asked, as Alexis and Cameron joined them.

“I'm not sure,” she said. “He seems to know his stuff. I figured he was way to cosmopolitan to care about baseball. And God knows we need to get rid of that eyesore of a plant. The tax revenue would be a nice boost, and getting more people – particularly families – into the Waterfront District would be good for all of us. Ned and AJ seem pretty enthusiastic, but they're checking it out. We'll see.”

* * *

Lorenzo and Skye walked around the grounds, hand in hand. She never looked lovelier, Lorenzo thought.

He noticed that the pool area was deserted, and led her up there. Skye sat down on a chaise, Lorenzo stayed standing, looking towards the woods.

“So far, so good,” Skye said with a smile. “Maybe this will be our lucky night.”

“I hope so,” Lorenzo said.

“It's nice to have a moment alone,” she said. “I've been in a whirlwind between Jason coming home, then getting to know him, and getting ready for this party. I'm glad you brought me up here.”

Lorenzo leaned down and kissed her with a passion that took her breath away.

“Wow,” Skye said when she recovered. “What brought that on?”

“You,” he said. “This night.”

They kissed again.

“I love you,” she whispered.

“Enough to want to see this mug across the breakfast table every morning?” he asked.

“What do you mean?” she asked.

Lorenzo knelt before her.

“I mean, Skye Quartermaine, will you marry me?”

Skye found herself breathless again. Then tears flooded her eyes, and she pulled Lorenzo to her for several intense kisses.

“Is that a ...” he hesitated.

“Yes! Yes! Most emphatically, YES!!!” she cried, laughing and crying, and flung her arms around him. Lorenzo's eyes filled, too. Then he remembered something else. He fumbled around his pocket, took out a small pale blue velvet case, opened it and presented it to her. In it was a large, round, brilliant diamond set in platinum, flanked by baguette diamonds on each side.

She looked in his eyes and nodded. He took her trembling left hand and placed the ring on her finger. A perfect fit. Skye held it up before her and watched it sparkle in the lights.

“It's beautiful,” she whispered.

“Not half as beautiful as you, my gorgeous, funny, sweet, sexy fiancée,” Lorenzo said. She took his face in his hands.

“Are you sure?” Skye asked. “Remember, you're not only getting me, you're getting ...” she nodded towards the house. He knew what she meant. She and the Quartermaines were a package deal.

“I'm one-hundred percent sure,” he said. “I saw your father earlier this week to ask for your hand, so he knows this may have been coming tonight. Shall we go tell them? Or should we announce it now? It's Jason's big night.”

“Let's do it!” Skye said. “Jason will be thrilled – he really likes you. And I don't think this rock's going to be invisible.”

He laughed, and stood up.

“Let's go then, Mrs. Soon-to-be Alcazar,” Lorenzo said, holding out his hands to help her up.

“Coming, dear,” Skye said, laughing as she stood up. He offered her his handkerchief to wipe her eyes. They walked back to the house with their arms around each other, Skye's left hand under his jacket.

* * *

Alan caught one glimpse of Lorenzo's barely suppressed joy and slight nod to Alan, and Skye's glowing face and shy eyes, her left hand still carefully hidden under Lorenzo's jacket, and knew what had happened. He wanted to dance a jig right there on the living room rug. Instead, he called out.

“Everyone!” he shouted. “Please come into the living room! AJ, Emily, Jason, please bring everyone in from outside!”

“What's going on?” Monica asked. He hugged her fiercely.

“Something wonderful,” he whispered. “A very happy surprise for the family.”

Everyone assembled.

“I have wonderful news,” Alan proclaimed. “My daughter, Skye, has just become engaged to Professor Lorenzo Alcazar. This makes me so very, very happy. Congratulations, you two, and welcome to the family, Lorenzo. God help you.”

The party broke out into wild applause. Skye was still glowing, and Lorenzo had a grin that wouldn't quit.

AJ sought out a waiter, and asked for champagne for the party, and ginger ale for himself, Alan, Lee and Skye. The drinks were served.

“A toast,” Jason said. “To the happy couple. Skye, you're being a part of our family is a great gift. And so is Lorenzo joining us. You've made this night an even happier one for me. I hope this is the start of a lifetime of joy for you both.”

“Hear, hear!” the crowd cried, raising their glasses.

Skye laughed and wiped her eyes. The Quartermaines gathered around to embrace each of them. Emily kissed Skye's cheek.

“Congratulations, Skye,” she whispered. “I hope you two are always as happy as you are tonight.”

“Thanks, Emily,” Skye whispered back. “You're next.”

Emily blushed. Skye thought that Emily was thinking of Zander. But an image of standing before Nikolas in a white gown had come into Emily's mind. How she longed for the day when they could proclaim their true love before God and the world! She stepped aside so AJ could get in a hug.

“Good going, Sis!” he said.

“I couldn't have gotten here without you, Brother,” she whispered.

“Nor I, you,” he replied with a kiss.

After the family had congratulated the couple, the rest of the crowd pushed in for its chance. The women congregated around Skye.

“Oh, my gosh, it's gorgeous!” Lucy exclaimed, bending over Skye's outstretched left hand for a better look.

“Careful, Lucy,” Felicia said. “She could put your eye out with that thing!”

* * *

Emily wandered away from the house, up towards the pool area. She'd seen Zander engrossed in conversation with Lorenzo, Alan, Jason, AJ and the other men assembled around the happy groom-to-be. He'd caught her eye for a moment, and she saw all the hope in his. She'd smiled faintly back, even though his expression brought her nothing but misery.

She walked through the open gate and into the pool area. She gasped when she saw Nikolas there, in the shadows near the dark pool house, staring into space. She walked over to him.

“Are you all right?” Emily asked.

“I'm fine, my princess,” Nikolas whispered. “It's just that ... when I saw your sister's happiness, all I could think of was our time to come.”

Emily turned a rapt face to his.

“Me, too,” she said.

“I was afraid it was plain on my face, so I got out of there before Uncle could see me,” Nikolas went on. “Did you see him?”

“Yes, he was totally wrapped up in Skye and Lorenzo. He and Skye are great friends, you know.”

Nikolas glanced around furtively, then quietly opened the pool house door and pulled Emily in with him.

“I've wanted this all night,” he whispered, pressing her to him. His lips came down on hers with the intensity of their built-up longing. She wrapped her arms around his neck and pressed even tighter to him, the heat building up inside her. She felt him against her belly, and knew he was as inflamed as she.

“Oh!” she breathed. “We can't ... not now ... I'll be missed.”

“We have a few minutes,” Nikolas said. “Let's take advantage of it.”

He kissed down her neck, leaving a copiously wet trail to the top of her dress. He unzipped it and continued his passionate exploration of her body. Emily clutched at his hair, kissing every bit of face she could reach.

“Nikolas, my prince!” she panted. “I love you! I love you, I love you!”

* * *

The women remained flocked around Skye, sighing over her ring. Then the flurry of questions.

“Have you set a date?”

“Where's the wedding going to be?”

“What about a honeymoon?”

“Will you live in that fabulous house?”

“Have you talked about children?”

It was too much for the men gathered nearby with Lorenzo.

“Come on, let's flee this hen party,” Cameron said to them. Cameron, Lorenzo, AJ, Jason, Justus, Ned, Scott, John, Jeremy, Kevin and Mac trooped outside. On the other side of the rose garden was their smoke signal.

Luke Spencer stood there alone, puffing on a cigar.

“I figured you'd all come out here before you drowned in that sea of estrogen, much of it supplied by my sentimental wife,” he said, reaching into his pocket and pulling out a huge fistful of cigars. Mac pointedly did not notice they were from Cuba, hence illegal.

“I knew you'd come through, Luke,” Cameron said amiably as he lit up. The others voiced their thanks.

“Glad to do it, gentleman, considering how you all have enriched me via the Haunted Star,” Luke said. “And, to show my appreciation, I'll host your bachelor party gratis, Lorenzo. Unless, of course, you come to your senses and flee the House of Quartermaine before you get sucked into their wacky hijinks permanently.”

“Hey!” Jason, AJ, Ned and Justus yelled at once.

“No offense, my men,” he said with a wink. “So where's Chucky, AJ? Handcuffed safely to the bed, I'd guess, judging by Mrs. Barrington's spotless attire.”

Everyone roared. Kevin, who'd been puffing, nearly choked on cigar smoke.

“He's never going to be allowed to forget that, is he?” AJ asked.

“Sadly, I doubt it, Junior,” Ned said. “Too many outside witnesses. Don't worry. He's got something to fling back against each and every one of us. Like the time you relieved yourself in Grandmother's rose bushes, Spencer, just as she was wheeling by.”

Another roar of laughter, Luke's as loud as anyone's.

“God bless her, what a woman!” he said. “She didn't bat an eye, but just thanked me for the fertilizer. Laura made me sleep on the couch for three nights.”

They were off again.

Just then, Zander wandered into the group.

“Join us for a stogie?” Luke said, offering a cigar. “We're mourning ... I mean, celebrating ... Lorenzo's impending jump into marital bliss.”

“No, thanks,” he said. “Anyone seen Emily? I was looking for her inside, but she wasn't in the group around Skye.”

Blank faces answered his question.

“Sorry, Son, haven't seen her,” Cameron said.

“Just as well,” AJ said. “Next thing you know, that crowd will be pouncing on her going on about how she's next. She doesn't need that kind of pressure right now with school.”

Zander agreed.

“Oh, well,” he said. “Guess I'll go look for her on the grounds.”

He walked away, towards the pool area.