


So here is the end.
Chapter 97
As Halloween passed, things in Port Charles went back to as normal as they could be. Elizabeth was dealing with being pregnant while working fewer hours at the hospital. Jason had cut back on his own hours when he had come home to find out he had missed seeing Lia taking her first steps.
“Hey.” said the blond watching his wife leaning against the pool table while watching the darkening sky. “You have been quiet tonight.”
Turning, Elizabeth smiled then walked to where he was standing. Hugging her husband, she said “Just thinking about the holidays and our families. Lots of little things I want to get taken care of beforehand so I can enjoy this time.”
Resting his head on hers, Jason said “I was thinking we could head to the cabin next week. Just Lia and us.”
When she had agreed, Jason leaned in to kiss her just as the phone buzzed. Glaring at it, he opened it and said “What?”
“Sorry, Jason, but James Craig aka Jerry Jacks is dead. The weird thing is Luke Spencer is in a jail cell down on some uncharted island charged with his death.” replied Francis.
Groaning, he asked “What are you keeping back?”
“The island, something weird happened... most of the native population is dead and the local government asked the CDC to come in. Steven Webber is heading up the team and even more interesting, the island, it's one you can see from Sonny's.”
~&~
In Rome, Holly saw her husband talking to a someone then pointing his finger in the man's face. When he came back to where she was waiting in the cafe she asked “Is there a problem?”
With an irate sigh he said “They can't find a long term cure. We made alternative plans but it went to hell when that idiot German turned out to be some stupid American playing at being a doctor.”
“What?” she asked a bit confused.
“When I arranged for Craig to die, I made it look like that German did it, then released the virus. Turns out he was a con artist not a doctor and we are now out over ten doses without a cure. But the good news is that I have a way to get the money to solve this.” he replied grimly.
Holly didn't care where he got the money, she just wanted him to get it. He had promised that as soon as this was done they would go on a cruise, one of those around the world jobs on a private yacht. “Fine, well I am going shopping.”
“Don't get caught this time.” he warned her not adding that the only face the authorities had was hers and he would be able to walk away free and clear from all those deaths. He found himself hoping she got arrested for shoplifting again since it would put an end to her spending money they didn't have yet.
Luke escaped the jail cell and went on his merry way just before the whole alphabet soup arrived on his tiny island get away. When the speedboat landed on the other island, he slid up the pier and went to find some money. He would do the right thing and return to his family for Christmas.
Besides, he had a wife to inform about their marriage and he couldn't wait to see her reaction.
Two days later, Luke smirked, he had hit the lotto! Seeing Sonny talking to the dark haired woman as they discussed spending the holidays with their son, he wondered first what son and then how did he get so lucky as to find free transport to Port Charles.
Meanwhile in town, Alexis had gone into labor and was being coached by a very woozy Maxie while Georgie was in the hall calling her father. “Dad, where are you?”
“I am pulling onto the lot now.” he said then rushed to join his wife.
In the hallway, Jax and Carly were talking to Johnny while they waited for Elizabeth to join them. “Where is Kitty tonight?”
“With Felicia, at the Brownstone. She came in to the see the girls for the holidays.” he replied. His sister had not been happy to be left out of the excitement until she found out that Kristina was going to stay with her. Georgie had suggested she 'babysit' the young toddler and she had been very excited at the idea.
Hearing footsteps, they saw Elizabeth joining them wearing a frown just as Mac rushed into the delivery room and Maxie flee. “What is it? What is wrong?”
Looking up surprised, she said “Nothing is wrong, just that my back is sore. Plus when I called Nik and Emily they told me that Stefan has an ear ache so they will be over in the morning.”
“What?” asked a shocked Carly. “I thought they would be here, especially Nik.”
Elizabeth kept quiet but she knew that Emily and Nik were having issues. Her best friend had been nervous for months about Helena making a grab for their son and Nik didn't even seem to be worried. She felt he wasn't taking her concerns seriously and it was creating a gulf between them. “They haven't had any sleep.”
Carly let it go, knowing she would find out the truth later on as Mac left the room long enough to change into scrubs. After a coffee run and some discussions on where everyone would be for Thanksgiving, Mac came out and announced that Alexis had given birth to a healthy baby boy. Carly mentally shrugged at the idea of a boy instead of a girl as she congratulated the excited man who then announced “Thank god, after three girls, we deserve at least one easy child.”
Georgie and Maxie who had been hugging their proud father, released him and glared at him. With a smirk he said “I love you, but these gray hairs on my head, you both caused them.”
“What are you going to name him?” Elizabeth asked while Georgie just laughed at her father.
“I can't tell you that, I promised Alexis she could deliver that news.” he said then added “But she was asleep and Dr. Lee said no one would be allowed to see her until tomorrow morning.”
As the various family members went to their respective homes, Dante stopped Johnny and asked him to let Jason know his parents were coming up for the holidays. “Wait, what are you doing here?”
“I was checking on one of the dockworkers. He cut himself on a nail.” replied the younger man as he left. Dante had been thinking on a few things and knew he needed to talk to Morgan about his future plans. His father wasn't going to be happy but Dante was interested in becoming a cop...
The holidays were enjoyable for Scorpios, Robin came to visit and soon had the two younger girls amused as she tried hard to avoid the handsome doctor who suddenly seemed very interested in getting her into bed. When Patrick wasn't stalking her, she was talking to Maxie about maybe moving into an apartment together that was near Campus and her new job at the hotel.
Robin had been offered a research position at GH, one she had rushed to accept when she found out she would be working with Steven and Patrick on their latest project. Mac and Kristina had been outside building a snowman when Kitty and Johnny had joined them.
Seeing the tense younger man, Mac asked “Is everything okay?”
Just nodding, Johnny pointed towards the girls then said “Yes, I will explain when little ears aren't around.”
Inside, Georgie was explaining quietly to Alexis and the two younger girls about the notes. “Johnny is certain it's his father.”
“He would have to have a guard helping him. All communication from prison is monitored.” replied Alexis as the young woman sat down. “How are you doing?”
“Fine, worried but fine. Has dad said anything yet...” she asked leaving open what she was talking about.
Alexis sighed, in this instance she agreed with Mac. “Georgie, I agree with your father. It's not like Kitty is in school yet and Johnny certainly doesn't need to work... why are you even considering this?”
“What are you talking about?” asked Robin as she returned from the refrigerator with a piece of the left over turkey.
“I uh I applied to PCU and haven't mailed in the others.” said a slightly flushed Georgie.
“What?” asked Maxie looking surprised then astonished “Let me get this straight. You could go to school in Boston, New York and London and are planning on staying here. Are you crazy?”
“No, but--” Georgie pouted as she saw her entire family glaring at her including her boyfriend who looked hurt as he turned on his heel and left rather quickly. “Crap... I will be right back.”
Following him after grabbing her jacket, she said to him on the back terrace. “I am sorry, I should have told you.”
“Why didn't you?” he asked.
“I knew what you would say, I just don't agree. I don't think it is right for Kitty and you to be uprooted just because I...”
Turning he looked at her and said “Don't you get it, we go where you go and Georgie, I know how you drooled over that campus. I know how badly you want to go to school there. It's really not a big deal.”
“Yes it is.” she said quietly then added “Johnny, I did some checking. You still haven't been cleared by social services, you can't take Kitty out of the country.”
“Then we stay behind long enough for that to happen.” he replied. “It won't be that long of a wait.”
“No.” she retorted. “I am not going without you. I just... I can't... I won't...”
“Stop acting like a child.” he said harshly, then stunned at what he had just said watched helplessly as she turned and walked away with her head down. “DAMMIT!”
Inside, Georgie went up the room she rarely used and laid down on her bed and just stared at the wall, numb because she knew he was right, but she just had this dark scary sense of impending doom. Hearing his footsteps in the doorway, she said “I am just... Johnny... something is coming and I am scared for you, for us, for our family. I don't want to be even a hundred miles away if I am needed.”
Sitting down next to her, he reached over and brushed her hair off her face then said “I know, I feel it too. I told you dad that Anthony's notes are more annoying then scary but things have been too quiet for too long.”
Laying down, he felt her turn and curl herself around him and said with a sigh. “I love you, Georgie. No matter what, please remember that.”
~&~
Christmas came and went quietly... presents were received and given. Happiness was created and taken away. Mainly at the Quartermaine residence where Tracy was still in shock as she repeatedly watched the video tape of her WILLINGLY marrying Luke Spencer.
She didn't know who he paid to make the tape but she was feverishly looking for proof that it was fake. AJ entered the room just as she hit play for the hundredth time that day alone. “Just accept it, he beat you some how.”
“I can't, I won't accept being married to him. There is no way in hell.” she snapped as she heard the sound of Alice letting someone in the front door. Opening the door to the study she glared at the reprobate standing there and snapped “What do you want?”
“A husband's place is with his wife, wife.” stated Luke as he ordered the maid to take his suitcase up to Tracy's rooms.
“Like hell it is, you are not staying here. Luke.” answered Monica as Alan and she came down the stairs. “Tracy, understand this, you live here on my sufferance and Luke, I am not in the mood to deal with you being around.”
“YOUR HOUSE?” snarled Tracy as she turned to Alice and said “Take my husbands' suitcase to his room, just make sure it isn't mine. Monica, Alan may have made the mistake of giving you this house, but don't you forget... I am family and my husband is family.”
Seeing Monica was ready to explode, Lila said quietly to the blond. “Let it go for now, let's find out what it is that Mr. Spencer wants and deal with him here.”
AJ called Jason and asked “Do you know what Spencer has been doing recently, he has moved in with the family.”
Swearing, Jason called Alan and said “Get Spencer out of there. He might be contagious.”
Taking a swab from the protesting man, Alan looked at him and said “Not a word, I talked to Steven Webber he had a few questions like how you got away from the wide net they cast. Do you have any idea the damage you could do if you are sick?”
When the swab came back clean, a smug Luke demanded an apology and medical side of the Quartermaine family just ignored him as they went to have dinner at the newly opened Metrocourt with Emily and Nik.
Sitting through the very awkward meal, Alan was happy when Steven called to tell him he was on his way home. “I have to spent a week in Africa first, Sarah's punishment is at an end and we are hoping she will go live in Boulder for a while.”
Hanging up his cell phone, they saw Jane Jacks talking to Carly as the two women at dinner together. After getting caught on their grandchildren, they told Jane they were sorry to hear about Jerry. “I always knew that boy would could to a bad end, but for this man Spencer to be accused, I just don't believe he did it.”
“According to the WSB he didn't.” said Carly. “I am not saying this because he is related, but Luke, well unless there was money in it for him, no, he wouldn't kill him.”
The two women were having dessert when Jax joined them with the news that a snow storm was brewing and they all hurried out along with all unnecessary staff. Carly was home with her boys, listening to the howling of the wind when she decided to call Elizabeth and Alexis.
“This storm didn't occur last time.” she said quietly. “I don't like this...”
Alexis looked around her snug house, her husband had just arrived, but had to leave again. Her son Nathan was asleep in his day cot and Kristina was playing quietly with her alphabet blocks while Maxie was sewing an outfit on her sewing machine.
Calling around, she found out that Emily and Nik had made it home safely and were curled up in bed with Stefan. Calling the brownstone she laughed as Johnny told her that Georgie and Kitty were popping popcorn in the fireplace and then added that the night was going to include a few very heavy games of Chutes n Ladders.
~&~
Elizabeth was moving Lia into her very rarely used play crib and watching as Jason sat on the heath lighting a fire. “I am glad we are here.”
Looking around the cabin, Jason said “I love being here during a storm. It reminds me of the night we were here this summer.”
As soon as their little girl was down for the count, Jason pulled Elizabeth into his arms and held her, talking to their newest child in her stomach. “Your mommy and I are so eager for you to come out. Your big sister too, even if she really doesn't understand what is going on.”
Lia just kept touching her mother's growing tummy, not really understanding why it was getting bigger, just that there was less room to sit in her favorite spot. Elizabeth turned around in his arms and asked “What was bothering you earlier?”
“Jason Quartermaine's memories, it's the first time I saw Sonny since having them ALL back and it wasn't pleasant. I had to listen to his complaints regarding Dante as well... I almost told him to back off but we both know that isn't the way to deal with him.” Jason relayed frustrated with the whole Sonny situation.
“Why is he so hell bent on Dante being a mobster when it is clearly the last thing he wants?” asked Elizabeth. “Better yet, why is he so determined to control him so much? Did you hear his reaction to Dante wanting to date Sage?”
Nodding, Jason said “I talked to Olivia, trying to get a better idea of what is going on, but even she is confused. She said one minute he talks about being glad he is out, then the next he is determined that Dante do what he wants, in spite of what she wants.”
“Has anyone checked on his meds?” she asked then felt their baby kick. “Here, feel this.”
Smiling, Jason watched as the baby kicked his mother from the inside. “I still think you are carrying a boy.”
“Do you want a boy next?” she asked interested in his response.
“I want a healthy baby, girl or boy. Doesn't matter. I just don't agree with Carly.” The blond had told him about the miscarriage in the previous life and that it had been a girl, and Jason refused to accept that it was possible.
~&~
At the station, Mac was working on some paperwork since it seemed even the criminals had the good sense to be someplace warm that night. Looking at the clock, he sighed knowing it would be a long night but with two green seconds he didn't want to take a chance on their screwing anything emergency related up.
“Sir, while you were out today... Sonny Corinthos visited his brother.” stated Det. Cruz as he entered the man's office. “There was a verbal altercation.”
Leaning back, Mac asked “What did you hear?”
“Just that Corinthos said he didn't pay for Ric's hospital care so that he could refuse his offer.” said the detective. “What do you think that was about?”
“Nothing, at least I hope not.” said Mac leaning back in his chair after the man had left. There had been rumors that Sonny was not satisfied with how things were, that he wanted back in and Mac knew that Jason wasn't going to allow that to happen. Not after how stable things had been for the last few years.
~&~
Robin was stuck at the hospital dealing with the very flirty Patrick Drake but the problem was she had walked into the unisex shower area and had gotten a very good look at the very hot Dr. Steven Webber and now her fantasies were getting out of hand.
“Dr. Scorpio, would you like some coffee?” asked the blond as he joined her at the cafeteria table.
“Yes, with whip cream I can lick off.” she said in a dreamy tone as she looking at the shirt hiding those very defined pec muscles. Then snapping back to reality, she quickly pretended to have requested hot cocoa even as her face flushed.
“Okay, my sister loves that too.” he said flashing dimples as he went to get her the sugary drink. Robin gave herself a mental lecture and made a point of counting all the muscles in the rear- er in the hand to get herself under control.
Once the blond sat down she asked “What have you been doing all night since it has been so quiet?”
“That is what I want to talk to you about. Where you aware that Patrick Drake was stabbed with a needle earlier today?” Seeing her nod, he replied. “I have taken over some of his patients and we rescheduled any non-emergency surgeries since the patient had AIDS.”
“Oh dear.” said Robin feeling bad for poor Patrick. “How is he doing?”
“He was wearing gloves but we are taking precautions, but you know how he is, I was wondering... would I be overstepping my boundaries to have you talk to him?”
Robin said “No, I understand, I will locate him after we are finished here.”
“Thanks.” he said flashing those dimples again and Robin was suddenly feeling like she was back in middle school and crushing on Jason Quartermaine as she would have agreed to whatever he asked.
An hour later, Robin was cursing herself as she dressed in the on call room. Looking at the sated man, she wanted to recoil in horror but instead just said “This cannot happen again.”
Patrick stood and said “This had nothing to do with what you are thinking.”
Crying out in frustration Robin said “You have no idea what I am thinking, none, zilch, nada.”
“Look, this was me looking for sympathy, you have to know that, I have told you repeatedly since you returned that I am interested in you.” he snapped. “What will it take for you to believe me?”
Robin looked at the man with the tousled hair and said mournfully “The thing is, a year ago, maybe not even that far back, I would have been interested back. There is someone else, I have feelings for and this... this... I can't be here you are not the right man for me. I want a picket fence and a dog, like an Irish Setter with a minivan not the hospital Lothario.”
When she was walking off, he dejectively said to the silence she left behind “How do you know that isn't what I want?”
~&~
New Years Eve was a quiet affair and in her house after the boys were in bed and she had talked to Jax on the phone, Carly sat down and crossed items off of her list. Shivering as she recalled the virus and it's damage, she only hoped that things worked out better this time. Luke was in town already, not infected according to Alan Quartermaine.
While she was sure that someplace was about to be infected, she was glad it wasn't here. As she went through the other items from 2006, she crossed off the Ruiz brothers, crossed off Lucky being addicted. He was already dead. The condoms, she wasn't too worried about that, Tracy wasn't running ELQ, she was running some smaller division so she couldn't wreck havoc by being cheap....
Calling Alexis, she was amused to be reminded it had been a week since the attorney had seen Mac, he had been in Washington DC at the request of Joe Kelly who was testifying in regards to funding for infrastructure. Hanging up while laughing she debated calling Elizabeth but knew that she had worked a long shift the day before and would want to be spending time with Jason.
“Mom?” Turning to see Michael standing there, she smiled and said “What are you still doing up? Didn't we tuck you into bed already?”
Curling up next to her, he said “Can I ask you something?”
“Sure, little man, what is it?” she asked then listened as he explained about his visit with Sonny and feeling scared of the man who had once been his father.
“I am sorry, Michael. However you are right, you don't have to go to the Island this summer if he made you that scared. I will talk to Olivia.” she said with a sigh. Sonny had unnerved her a couple of times while visiting for the holidays as well.
When she realized the little boy had fallen asleep, she thought back over the last few years and realized that in regards to the 'business'; things had been quiet but it hadn't been because of her... that had been because without Sonny running things, Jason had kept the town stable and no one had made the mistake of attempting to come in and take the territory.
Hearing the doorbell, she kissed Michael on the forehead and eased out from underneath him. Shaking her foot as a result of the numbness from sitting so long, she was a bit surprised to see Jasper Jacks standing there.
“Hi!” he said then pulled his hands from behind and showed her the bottle of champagne with two glasses. “I left Lady Jane in charge of the party and came to see if you were interested in a private celebration of the old year?”
“Come in.” she said then pointing to a sleeping Michael.
“Got it.” he said then carried the growing boy up the stairs to his room. Returning he saw she was already opening the bottle and pouring them each a glass. “Hope you don't mind my crashing?”
Sitting down, she motioned for him to do the same then said “No, but this was your baby, why aren't you there?”
“Because I love the hotel, but it is just that a building where people sleep temporarily. I was in a room talking to most of the town and I realized after hanging up with you, that I missed you more than I wanted to have yet another go round with Edward Quartermaine or to watch Kate arguing Morgan's second in command.”
Smiling a bit, she said “I just didn't want to be out and about. Tonight, I wanted to be here with my boys. Besides, it was a good thing. Michael had a strange visit with Sonny and needed me. While Leticia is great, this is my son, my ex-husband who scared him.”
Seeing his face, she said “What?”
“A few years ago, I would not have believed you would have cared.” he admitted shamefaced. “I would have expected you to call Morgan to deal with Sonny then in a few months make excuses for him.”
“A few years ago, I probably would have.” she admitted. “It took some doing but I grew up and finally became the mother and person I should have been all along. I didn't like the me I was then, heck, I didn't like the you that was then.”
Seeing his surprise, she said “If you had done to me what you did to Skye; I wouldn't have gotten one of Jason's guns and shot you myself. But I think you learned your lesson and grew and changed too. At least I hope so.”
“Why?” he asked with a hopeful expression on his face.
“First because unfortunately, I have to talk to Brenda Barrett about coming to town for a few weeks and with what I am starting to feel for you, would be pissed if you started to moon over that woman. Not just because I like you like that either but because you looked like an idiot. Brenda has always, always been wishy washy and frankly you deserve better than that.”
Leaning in, he said in a low voice “I agree and fair warning, I know what I want and I intend to spend the next year going after it. So tonight, or rather this morning...” he said as the bells rang informing them it was the New Year. “... you should be made aware that you are under siege and I am not walking away.”
With that Jax leaned in and kissed Carly. A very brief but possessive kiss then he stood walked to the door and said “By the end of the year, you will be mine.”
By the time she came out of her stupor, Carly could do nothing more than brush her fingertips against her lips and then standing cursed him as the wet champagne poured onto her legs. Shaking her head, she cleaned up the mess then muttered “If you had stuck around, I would have been yours before dawn.”
New Years day dawned the a very happy Elizabeth as Jason and she were cuddled up in bed, talking about the house he had had his attorney find for them. “So, I was thinking...”
Turning in his arms, she gave him a quick kiss then said “About...”
“I was thinking that maybe we spend the beginning of the month in Italy.” he said returning the kiss then deepening it. “What do you think?”
“Dr. Meadows gave me the all clear, I can ask for the time off... and I know Lia would be happy.” she said moaning in delight as he rubbed her back. “You keep that up and you can have anything you want.”
Raising his eyebrows he whispered “Anything?”
“Anything.” she moaned as he bent down and kissed his way down her neck. Jason had her naked with seconds and was kissing his way down her stomach when they heard the banging on the downstairs door. “Ignore it.”
Hearing the sound of Carly shouting, he said “I can't. She got in already. Now, you see why I want that huge gate?” Elizabeth laughed then grabbed her pajamas before heading to the landing where she saw Carly pacing back and forth while muttering to herself.
“Carly, this had better be very important.” she glared as she slipped on her robe and belted it.
“Hey, I am not getting any, neither are you. I was so close, I mean this close...” she muttered and showed her two fingers millimeters apart and then snapped “Besides, you promised me breakfast.”
“At noon.” Elizabeth pointed out in amusement. “It's barely seven o'clock.”
“Oh, sorry about that.” she replied not meaning it. “But we have to have our annual meeting. There are things to talk about.”
“Com'on, let's wait for Alexis and Emily to arrive.” said Elizabeth as she directed the blond to the kitchen and started the coffee. “I will be right back, I have to get dressed.”
Carly looked up from where she was spreading out the pastries she had found. “Don't do anything funny.”
“Define funny?” she asked as she walked towards the stairs.
Carly followed her and snapped “Having sex with Jason.”
“Oh, we never have sex.” taunted Elizabeth. “It's way more than that. You do remember how that goes, with the right man?”
“Elizabeth Morgan, you are so not funny.” the blond muttered under her breath as she returned to the kitchen just as her phone rang. “What?”
“Carly?” asked AJ sounding a bit confused. “What is going on?”
“Nothing, just your sister-in-law is driving me crazy. How did the date go?”
Looking at the woman standing in the doorway of his house, AJ said “It went well. Look, the reason I was calling was to see if Michael and Morgan can come over and watch the games a bit early. Ned is bringing over Dillon, since apparently Lulu showed up at the mansion.”
“What?” asked Carly as Elizabeth came into the room while someone was being let in the front door. “I thought she was in therapy.”
“Apparently she is well enough to be walking with a cane. She showed up last night and the family found out this morning when Alice found her sleeping in a spare bedroom.” he replied. “Tracy was shouting at her, warning her away from Dillon.”
“Let me know how it goes and the boys are with Momma so good luck prying them away.” she warned. “Lucas is in town and she wanted a buffer.”
“Bobbie is doing irreparable harm to him. What is she thinking?” snapped AJ. “Okay, I will invite Lucas too, I heard he was working with of Jason's men trying to track down that computer geek who attacked the casinos.”
~&~
When Alexis entered the room, they were surprised to see Georgie with her. “Uh, Alexis?”
The attorney looked at them then announced “She overheard me talking to you last night, Carly. I didn't know she had come home to change before going for a drive with Johnny.”
The younger girl looked at Carly then Elizabeth before saying “At first I thought she was crazy but then I listened to what she had to say about the things you knew, and I guess... it's just... I have been having these feelings of impending doom, I just need to know...”
Carly saw how conflicted the younger girl was then said “I understand, so does the rest of them.”
Explaining what she knew was coming, Carly said “I think we avoided the virus, but with the way everything still seems to happen but with different results, I just wanted you all to be aware.”
“This thing with the condoms, I am glad you told me.” said Georgie blushing then with a sideways glance at Alexis... “Uh, we sort of use them.”
Alexis looked at her adopted daughter and said “I am way too young to be a grandmother twice over.” Seeing her confusion, Alexis dryly pointed out that Johnny was her son.
“I try to forget that.” she said with a cheeky grin. “I mean, I sometimes wonder if I should talk to that Dr. Winters. First I had a crush on my adopted cousin Lucas, now my adopted brother. I am sure there are a wealth of unseen and hidden pitfalls in that.”
While they were discussing the future, Jason had called Max and asked his opinion of the new house. The guard who knew he needed to tell his boss that he was quitting asked if he could talk to him face to face.
Jason listened then said “Max, I can't let you go to work for Sonny, you know that don't you?”
“I do, that is why I am returning to Italy, to stay with Pops. But Jason, I can't go against Sonny, he brought me in, I work for you, but only...” Jason just kept a steady eye on his now former guard and listened as he added “I just can't do it.”
Watching him leave, Jason made a call and asked Francis to take care of the problem. “Tell Marco I want daily reports.”
~&~
While over the next week, Elizabeth was talking to Carly about decorating their new house, Jason was getting ready for Sonny to do something stupid. When he talked to Dante, wondering where the man's son would fall in this war, he was surprised at what the younger man told him.
“I want no part of it. Look, I know he is my father and I do love him but honestly, I don't want this life. I don't want any part of it. I was told I couldn't get into the academy, I can deal with that, but I AM going to go to college and find a future for myself and it won't be in this life.”
Just as they were ending their discussion, two different phones rang. “Morgan.
“Falconari.” As their eyes met, Jason saw the shadow of regret on both of their faces just as Marco told Jason the news. “Are you sure?”
“Yes, we are positive. Olivia called the CDC, they have shut down the Island. No one is going to be allowed on or off right now. They think it came from being near the first incident but with Spencer hiding out here for so long, who knows?” said Marco helplessly.
Hanging up, Jason asked “Do you want me to arrange for you to fly there?”
“No, but could you arrange for my mother to get off that cursed island as soon as they give the all clear.” asked the now grieving young man as he fled the building. Stopping in to see his friend, he asked “Do you have some time?”
Sage looked in his eyes and told Dillon she would see him later, ignoring his protests. 'What is it?”
“My dad, he is dead. He was exposed to that virus that was all over the news several weeks ago. My mom is sick, but they said she is doing better.” he replied then buried his head in her lap as the tears started to flow. Sage just held him, they had bonded as two children of former mobsters, and now, they just were friends. She knew he had liked her at first, but now, they had let the attraction go. She was dating Dillon again, and he, he had gone out with lots and lots of women, usually spending the night in the rooms above Jake's.
Leaving an hour later, Dante went to his place, tossing down his coat as he picked up the phone and called his mother knowing she would need him. “How are you?”
“I am fine.” Olivia had been fighting with Sonny recently and was dealing with the guilt but knew that in the end, this death had been a blessing as Sonny had been turning dark and depressed for the last few months. “I hate that you are dealing with this alone.”
“I'm not, I have Johnny here, he is usually pretty busy but we see each other at the warehouse all the time, and I have Sage.”
“Have you told her how you feel yet?” she asked wanting to take her mind off her troubles.
“No and she still thinks I am sleeping with every single woman in Jake's. I have to let her think that or she will start to distance herself again.” said the younger man with a heavy sigh. “I just wish...”
~&~
At the station, the paramedics entered at the same time as the police commissioner. “What is going on?”
“Lansing, started to sweat then have breathing problems. His temperature was 104 so I called the hospital.” announced Detective Cruz. The men brought the gurney back up and rushed the prisoner to the hospital, telling Mac that he couldn't use that cell until they knew what was wrong with the man.
As he went to his office, he was stopped and informed “Sir, Roselawn called, they had a similar case. Turns out there was a visitor in common.”
“Corinthos?” asked Mac even as he picked up his phone. Calling his wife, he said “Go to the hospital and get checked out.”
“I was just about to call you, Sonny is dead.” she bluntly told him. “What is going on?”
“Lansing and now Anthony Zachara are in critical condition.”
“I have to go, but I think I will stay here and have Monica come and check on us. Or maybe Elizabeth.” she stated.
“NO! Not Elizabeth, she's pregnant.” protested Mac then he made another call. “Anthony was just rushed to GH. Corinthos is dead and Lansing is out for the count.”
Johnny looked at his sister who was playing games with Georgie and said “What is going on?”
~&~
At the Quartermaine residence, Edward was shouting for Alice as he walked towards the kitchen. Seeing the usually robust maid passed out on the marble floor had him shouting for his granddaughter who was visiting.
Emily rushed over and saw that the woman was sweating and thought about what Carly had told them. “Grandfather did you touch her?”
“No, why?” he asked in a grumpy tone.
“I want you and Grandmother to have your driver take you to the Metrocourt, now~”
“Emily, my dear, now is not the time...”
“NOW!” she ordered then using her cell phone called 911, “I have a patient, woman in her late 40's, with a fever, sweats and from the looks of things she passed out at least an hour ago.”
Meanwhile a grumpy Edward did as she ordered then suggested to AJ who he had been meeting with and wanting fresh coffee for, that he go find out what had gotten into his sister.
“AJ, don't come in here.” she said then glared when he ignored her orders “I know what this is and it is contagious. Call Dad and tell him we have an encephalitis virus going around. Then look for Luke Spencer and make sure he is walking around.”
Doing what she requested, he grimly made a 911 call. “I have a dead body at the Quartermaine residence. A man, in his early fifties. Tell Mac Scorpio that Luke Spencer has a bullet wound in his forehead.”
Within hours, those that Sonny had visited were all being treated for various versions of the virus. Michael had been let out of bed but Bernie, Alexis and several members of the wait staff from the Metrocourt were now patients.
~&~
The CDC soon had the hospital under quarantine, just as the second wave became ill. Dante, Mac and Alexis' son Nathan, Maxie Jones and her new boss Kate Howard who was pregnant. When Johnny O'Brien snuck into the hospital to be with the mother of his child, he was given the news by Bobbie Jones who was there treating patients. “She isn't in very good shape. We have her on a machine to control her breathing and they are using cooling blankets on her.”
Nodding, he closed his eyes to hid his bleak expression before making a call. “I need your help.”
Jason was on the phone with Max's father in Italy. When the man gave him the news that Max had died, Jason felt awkward giving him his sympathy considering that he had sent Francis there to kill the former guard but the virus had gotten to him first.
“Jason?” Turning to see his wife, he thanked the man for letting him know then went to hug his wife. “Did Steven call?”
Nodding she said down and said “Yes, but that isn't it. Mac Scorpio was here to tell you that AJ found Luke Spencer dead at the mansion. When they were transporting the body, your brother collapsed. They took him to the hospital, but he was in bad shape.”
Shaking Jason asked “The rest of the Quartermaines?”
“Alan is at that seminar in London, Edward and Lila were rushed out of the house by Emily who went to GH with Alice and Monica was already there working. They are trying to track down Dillon and no one else is in town now.” she said as they held onto one another.
“Elizabeth could you please call around?” he asked then kissing her added “We need to know who is where and then I will call your brother back. I need to have Francis join that new guard Kurt, he is in Italy keeping an eye on that Holly Sutton woman.”
Elizabeth soon had a list as she rejoined Jason who was talking to Johnny. He had brought over Kitty but had been frustrated to learn that Georgie had been working a shift at the hospital. “Who is where?”
“Patrick Drake and Robin gave me most of this.” she warned “Okay, Carly is at the hospital with Michael, but Morgan is with Leticia. Michael is doing fine, but Carly's starting to get sick.”
Jason thought about his friend who though they weren't as close as they once were was still connected to his wife and asked “Should we have her bring Morgan here?”
“No, she said let Leticia keep him at Jax's house. Lady Jane is visiting and had been spending the morning with him. Lulu was brought in a little while ago, deathly sick. She hasn't been told yet about Luke.” with that Elizabeth sat down, she wasn't feeling to good but knew it was the baby not the virus. “Nik was brought in along with Stefan.”
~&~
At GH, Robin was working in the lab when she got the call from her ex-boyfriend. “We have something for you.”
Listening to what he had to say, she asked “Are you certain of this?”
“Yes, they were interested in Spencer because they believed he had natural antibodies that would help them create the cure. We think they intended to sell it to the highest bidder.” Jason told her then called his people back and said “Remember watch but don't grab.”
Francis told his boss. “Her husband was just rushed to the hospital. She doesn't look to broken up about it but warned them he was a doctor who dealt with germs.”
Jason didn't know it but thanks to Jerry Jacks' part of in the mess, things had changed and no one was going to be safe....
Chapter 98
The news started to come quickly. Ric Lansing died, while no one really felt any regret about his being the first to die, there was some worry when the vaccine Robin and Patrick had created didn't work. Johnny had been on the phone with Georgie as much as he could, feeling helpless but sticking to his promise to her to stay outside and help them find out what was going on.
“How is Kitty?” she asked as she watched the news tell the world what was going on.
“Missing you, scared you aren't coming home. Just like me.” he admitted trying to hide the fear in his voice. “Neither one of us wants to sleep without you.”
She rubbed her eyes, sleep wasn't something she was getting. “Did you tell Jason about Sage and Skye?”
“Yes.” he said quietly. “Be careful, please?”
“I will, after all, we have plans.” she said before hanging up. Stopping at the chapel on her way to check on Carly and her son who was sitting at her bedside, she asked Michael if he would get her some food from the cafeteria, explaining she hadn't eaten in hours.
“What is it?” asked Carly urgently. Hearing about all who were now patients, she closed her eyes in fear when she heard the vaccine hadn't worked this time. “What changed?”
“I don't know, but we have to figure it out.” said Georgie who then told her that Maxie and AJ were now sick.
“Can you help me up, I need to see him.” she told the candy striper who said “I wish I could, but there are no available wheelchairs. They used them to move the patients who weren't infected.”
~&~
An hour later, Jason called and asked Georgie to ask to speak to Dr. Lee. “Elizabeth isn't feeling so good.”
Getting a bad feeling, the Korean sat down and said “I had to postpone calling the two of you, thanks to this virus, but I noticed something earlier this week. I was hoping that the two of you could come in for an ultrasound.”
Jason sat down and his heart stopped as he recalled what Carly had said then asked “Is my wife and our baby okay?”
In spite of the sickness around her, Kelly found herself smiling as she said “Yes, but I saw a shadow, behind the baby then what sounded like an echo of the heartbeat. I wanted to have Dr. Meadows look at it to be sure, but we think that the reason Elizabeth is gaining more weight and having back problems is that she might be carrying twins.”
Reeling a bit, Jason audibly caught his breath then asked “What?”
“Now it's not definite, we want to try another type of ultrasound, but yes.” she replied. “We think your second child is camera shy.”
Looking at his wife as she rubbed her back walking carefully down the stairs Jason found his eyes on the larger than before baby bump and said “What should we do for now?”
“I know with everything going on, that telling her to relax isn't going to do much good, but she needs to stay calm and try to keep her blood pressure down. Twins are usually born early and it was why I was so worried. Try to keep her off of her feet as well.” Kelly saw that the hot looking Irish guy was looking for her and said “I have a patient who needs me, tell Elizabeth that I will see the two of you as soon as this is over.”
~&~
Robin lifted the sheet and covered Anthony Zachara. “Time of death 5:02 AM.”
Steven had finally arrived and they started to vaccinate the patients with what had worked on the Islanders. While it seemed to tamp down some of the worse symptoms, it wasn't a cure by any means. Swearing in the lab as he came up with zilch yet again, Patrick Drake lifted the beaker and tossed it against the wall.
“Hey, take it easy man.” he said then told him what they had learned. “I want you to run this sample of blood. Test it for those natural antibodies that Morgan was talking about.”
Seeing the gauze on Steven's arm, Patrick looked at him in confusion. “But you aren't related to Spencer.”
“No, but this has similar characteristics as the Lasla fever that swept through town before I was born. My family had a natural protection against it. What if they thought Spencer did as a result of that?”
“Who else was here and can we get access to their blood?” asked Patrick a half hour later as he informed him that it had worked. “I have five doses but that is all a pint makes and we have over 300 patients.”
“Give it to the worst of them.” said Steven as he went to the files to find out what was needed. On his way he saw Monica Quartermaine talking quietly to Johnny O'Brien and listened to what they had to say. “We have a vaccine, it worked in the lab. It might not come down to that.”
“I have to talk to Kate, I can't make this decision without asking.” said Johnny as he went to see the mother of his child. “They have a vaccine, but they have to induce labor first.”
“No, then. I won't endanger my child.” she said between pants. “Tell the doctors, I want our baby, that I want our baby to stay inside as long as possible. I heard what Dr. Lee said. I know that our daughter's best hope is for me to carry her to term or at least until this is over.”
“Kate. Do you you understand this might KILL YOU?” he asked. “Do you get that?”
“This baby dying, that would KILL me,. I can't risk it. I won't. If I don't make it...” wiping away her tears, Johnny sat down holding her hand as she tried to finish. “If I don't make it, please have Olivia help you. She did such a... such a good job... with Dante.”
Resting his head on hers, he said “I am so sorry, this is all my fault. I got you pregnant.”
“I think I was a little involved with this.” she said with a heavy sigh. “Johnny, thank you for being here for me.”
When she slipped into the coma, he just help her hand, the tears flowing at the sacrifice she was possibly making. “I promise, our little girl... will know her mother, one way or another.”
~&~
In the long boardroom Alan was on the conference phone with his wife and a few others as they tried to make the decision between life and death for a whole lot of innocent people. “Who is the worst?”
“Nathan Scorpio, should be done before we decide that.” replied Audrey.
“Audrey, you know I wish I could, but we HAVE to treat sickest first.” said Monica firmly even as she felt sick at making these decisions.
Robin looked at her list then said “Kate Howard is refusing so do we keep a dose available if she changes her mind?”
“No, hopefully by then we will have some more of the vaccine.” replied the disembodied voice on the phone. “Okay, from what you have told me. Alice, is the worst, followed by Maxie Jones. Those two definitely. Who is next?”
“Alexis, Sage, Skye and Nik are all equally sick.” said Monica. “Stefan just measurably less so.”
Tony Jones stood needing a glass of water when he keeled over and fell onto the table. Calling for a gurney, he was soon taken off to a room as those remaining silently looked at one another. “How soon can we get another sample from Steven?”
“Two hours.” said Patrick grimly. “I checked. Dr. Quartermaine, you don't have the antibodies. Mrs. Hardy you either.”
“What if this is just something in our blood.” asked Steven from where he was sitting. “Elizabeth might be a good source.”
“No.” said Dr. Lee from the doorway. Seeing them looking she said “Twins, she is expecting twins, possibly. So that means...”
“We can't draw blood. That it was even possible shouldn't leave this room.” said Dr. Lee looking around at the various medical personnel. “What about your father and your sister, aren't they in Boston right now?”
“Sarah isn't allowed to donate blood right now, she was in Africa when they had the ebola outbreak.” said Steven. Looking at the list he said “What about Kristina?”
“She is just a toddler.” Audrey harshly reminded her grandson. “Next you will be suggesting Lia.”
Steven had a sudden idea and grabbed his phone. Calling Dr. Meadow's office, he asked to speak to her only to be told she was now a patient. “I need you to check your records and see if Elizabeth Morgan had her daughter's stem cells saved.”
“I can't release that information.” insisted the medical assistant. “Not without permission.”
Steven hung up after snapping for her to check that he would ask his sister to call back with permission. Calling Elizabeth he asked and was quickly given the okay when he explained what was going on. Rushing down, Patrick and he were soon running tests while Robin was listening to the various relatives demand the vaccines for those they cared about.
“We are going to treat everyone but we have to treat those who are worse off first.”
“Why, they will most likely die anyhow?” snapped Tracy from the doorway. “My family are...”
“Save Tracy, that won't work. Now get out of my way and let us treat those we can. The longer you delay us taking care of our patients, the less likely we will have more vaccine.” snapped Monica from behind Robin.
“Okay, I gave the vaccine to Alice, Sage Alcazar and Lulu Spencer. Thomas Edwards, the man from Roselawn and Maxie Jones.”
“The Jones girl already had a transplant, why are you giving her the damn shot?” shouted one man as he pressed the two doctors. “My son, my son is studying to be a doctor, he was working here when he got sick, why is he less important than her?”
“Mr. Garon, no one is more or less important. But some are sicker than others. Now, please folks, let us take care of your family members, please, just let us do our job.” said Robin while Georgie walked out of Maxie's room and rested her head against the wall.
In the hallway off the stairs, she called Johnny and said “The natives are getting restless. They are so scared. I don't know what to do. I just wish... I wish I were home, safe with you. Isn't that terrible. My family is here. Alexis, Maxie, Nathan, Nik and his son... yet, I can't help it. I just...”
“I know.” he said then entering the Morgan penthouse, sat down with his head in his hands. Thinking on all that they knew, he saw Elizabeth coming down the stairs and asked “Where is Jason?”
“He had someone picked up. I was told to have you meet him at this address.” she stated and gave him a folded piece of paper.
~&~
At GH, Patrick and Steven groaned, they had only gained two more vaccines from the stem cells. Calling down, they listened as Monica tearfully told them that Tony Jones had died and that while Sage and Maxie were getting better Nik was now the worst off of all the patients.
Giving him one of the vaccines sent him into cardiac arrest, and he had soon slipped into a coma. Emily sat there stunned. Nik and she had had it rough the last few months. The spectra of Helena had been hanging over their heads and she had been less than pleased with her husbands attitude.
Going to the hallway, she pulled out her cell phone and called Zander. “I can't live without him, but the last words we had before this were....”
“Don't think like that Emily, you can't afford to.” he warned then said suddenly “I will call you back my man is on the move.”
Chasing down the bald man, Zander said “I need to talk to you about Cooper Barrett and Logan Hayes and it is a matter of life or death.”
Turning the tall former Marine asked “What is in it for me?”
“Nothing, but if you don't help you die and painfully for every single life that you let die by not telling me what I want to know.” he said coolly.
“Okay, how about this, I tell you, if I am right, you pay me later.” replied Cody. Zander looked at him amused then asked “You trust me.”
“Yeah, look man, I know who you are. What do you want?”
“Tell me about their deal with James Craig.” Getting the story about the blood sample then about how they were told to forget about it. “Barrett is dead, I think Hayes killed him. It's why I took off, but what they were actually up to... I don't know. All I know is what I heard. Some woman worked out a deal with the government, walked secretly from charges. Craig was pissed. She showed up and left with what they had as a vaccine. Hayes was sent to find her.”
“Why Port Charles.” he asked then frowned as he called Jason Morgan. “That woman, the one who was pregnant with Corinthos kid... she was let out of prison in exchange for help a case but she ran.”
“Does she have the vaccines?” asked Jason who when he was told yes, said “That is actually good news. She will do anything for a buck.”
~&~
Sam sat in the hotel, waiting and watching as CNN, Fox News and MSNBC all started to report the various deaths. But none that she was waiting for had died. Until that happened she wasn't going to offer up her treasure chest.
“This is Andrea Winston reporting from General Hospital in Port Charles New York. The CDC have just set up a press conference and we should soon have an update on the encephalitis outbreak here in Port Charles.”
Sam gleefully listened as they explained about Luke Spencer and the island outbreak followed by how Sonny Corinthos, former mobster had succumbed to the disease and how he had been the possible patient zero for spreading it throughout the town.
Making the call from the prepaid cell phone, she took out the voice altering device and said “Dr. Alan Quartermaine please. Tell him I have the vaccines and if you take too long, I might just hang up.”
While whoever it was that answered chased down the man, Sam thought about how much she would ask for. “Dr. Quartermaine.”
“Alan, here is the deal. I have the vaccine that you are looking for. If you want proof, check in with the medical staff of Mercy Hospital, a dose was dropped off and given to a patient there. I will be calling back in five minutes. I want you to have ready for me the money I am going to need in order to release this briefcase to you.”
Alan quickly made the call on his cell phone. Dr. Waites, the Chief of Staff quickly confirmed that they had treated a patient with what had been left “We will pay half of whatever this person wants.”
Calling around, Alan got the funding and then called Jason. “I will take care of it. Just find out how much.”
“Stay on the lines, he or she is calling me right back.” he said furious that this person dare hold up a life saving treatment for money. When the phone rang he said “I believe you, how much?”
“Five Millon dollars.” she said spinning in the chair.
“Done.” he said promptly. Jason heard the call and whispered to Stan to find out who and to clear up the voice.
“A dose.” she added. “Now, we all know you will pay it, you don't have a choice.”
“When and where?” he spat out.
“Kelly's Diner, and I will be watching. Also, I want a neutral party to deliver it. Someone you nor the police won't accidentally shoot. Say... um... difficult choice... I know. Since the CDC won't let out anyone at the hospital, how about Lila Quartermaine. Your mother I believe.”
Jason caught his breath as Stan mouthed “I have it.”
Alan quickly made the call and Edward immediately refused to let his wife go. “I won't risk her, find someone else.”
“Edward, we have no choice. Would you be able to live with yourself if our great grandchild were to die because of our selfishness.” said the calmly moderating tone. “Alan, how is AJ doing?”
She could hear it in his answer that nothing had changed that his son wasn't well. “Edward?”
“Only if Jason is there to protect you.” he conceded against his better judgment.
~&~
Stan played the real version for Jason and said “Sam McCall.”
“I want our people ready to take her out. She is too stupid to have planned an escape route and this time, I want her dead. No more chances.” he replied then answered his phone. “Zander, Francis and our guy are grabbing Holly Sutton. What about Helena?”
“Done. Yesterday. Nik should have told your sister we had a plan in play. I have to go, look do you want me to take out that Nanny?”
“No. Nik can fire her when he is healthy.” said Jason as he went to check on his wife. “How are you doing?”
Hugging him as she feed Lia, she replied “Worried. Tony Jones didn't make it. Nik is in a coma, and O'Brien called. Kate and the baby are not getting enough oxygen.”
“I have to run out. Sam has the vaccines and we have to arrange her payment.” he replied with a frown. Elizabeth watched him leave then called to talk to Carly. Listening as Michael then Jax who had gotten into the building somehow told her that Carly was not doing so well but that there were plenty worse off, didn't lesson her fears.
A little later, Edward showed up, pacing back in forth in front of the pool table as they waited on word of what was going on.
~&~
In the hospital, Johnny listened to what Dr. Lee said then asked for Dr. Meadow's opinion. “I am afraid Dr. Meadows died this afternoon.”
Catching breath in fear, Johnny looked at the woman lying there with the machine breathing for her and said “She wants me to protect the baby but how can I do make that choice. How do I decide.”
Kelly sat him down in the chapel and said “It's a painful choice but one you are going to have to make on her behalf. Is there anyone you can call, anyone she has, family for instance.”
Heading down the hall to Dante's room, he saw the dark haired girl sitting there watching the sleeping young man and asked “How is he?”
“Asleep, but still sick.” replied Sage just as Dante moved. When he woke up, he saw his bosses enforcer and asked “My mother?”
“No, this is about Kate and our baby. I... she is very sick, but is refusing the vaccine because of the baby. I don't know what to do.” he replied bleakly. “She made me promise to protect our baby but how can I?”
“Because Aunt Kate wants her child to make it even if she doesn't. I am glad I am not in your shoes, but Johnny, she already made the choice, you are just protecting her right to do so.” said the dark haired boy. When the man had left, he asked “How are you?”
“Doing better, now that my friend is getting better too.” she replied softly. “I just hate that I was given the vaccine and others weren't yet. It is a burden to know that people have died since then.”
Pulling her close, he asked “Dillon?”
“He wasn't given it, but that isn't the only person. Lulu was and she isn't getting better.” she replied. “I can't stand her, but I don't wish for her to die.”
Maxie was sitting up in her bed, watching as Robin took her blood pressure, “Am I going to be okay?”
“Yes, thanks to the vaccine. I just hope they get it here as soon as possible.” she said then looked at Alexis who was feverish then at Nathan who was doing better now that he had been given a dosage. “Where is Georgie?”
“With Carly, they are helping Emily with Stefan. Nik isn't doing so good. Stefan started to get better like Nathan, it turns out children have a natural antibody to this.”
~&~
John Zachara looked at the man tied up and said in disgust “So this woman, offered you money to infect people? What about your own family, how would you feel if it was them?”
Scoffing, Logan said “I hate my father, I hope he does die from this. Besides, why should I give a crap about these pathetic self absorbed rich people.”
Shaking his head, Johnny said “Where is it?”
“No way, like I said. I want to be paid.” smirked the blond. “And without me you have nothing.”
“Sam McCall, ring any bells. We are about to have her.” said John. When the man didn't seem to care or recognize the name, he was a bit worried then saw it, a very small tell but one he could use. “What did she offer you?”
“Money and sex.” said the blond. “Plus revenge against the man who ruined my mother's life. He stole from her and left her with nothing while he moved on to another woman and had kids with her.”
“Spencer?” asked Johnny then saw his smile and said “Then who?”
“Scott, Scott Baldwin. Former DA Scott Baldwin. I found out that he pulled something similar on Morgan, I was going to use it as an in then found out Morgan didn't even know about it. Which worked out well for us, it helped us hide the vaccines some place you will never find them.”
Johnny said “One thing, just a hint. Your bragging, stupid really, because I no longer have any use for you.” With that he shot the man between the eyes and walked to the door. “Get rid of the body and then find a way to burn this place to the ground that won't come back on us.”
Walking away, he made the call and told Jason what Logan had said. Thinking on the tapes from Lee Baldwin and his memories of what Alan told him about his past he quickly gave him the address. Johnny ran to his truck and was soon there.
Entering, he cursed Jason's mother for having such a large house then hurried up the stairs. Looking around, trying to figure it out, he saw the baby's room. Remembering who Logan was working with, he quickly searched then called Mac.
“We have the vaccine, I am on my way. Warn them so they don't shoot me.” he said as he gunned the motor and raced to the hospital. Seeing the police and the guards, he quickly handed off the briefcase to Steven Webber who had come down in a hazmet suit.
An hour later, with the drugs now working, he sent Robin and Patrick to the lab. “Find out what is in this.”
~&~
Jeff arrived in town a half hour later and was let through the barrier where he found Audrey sitting on a chair in her office, talking to someone on the phone. “What happened?”
Listening he said “What about this McCall woman?”
“That still hasn't happened. I don't know how they got the drugs, but I am not questioning it anymore than Mac is.” she replied then added. “Too many people died. And how did you get her so quickly.”
“I have been with Noah Drake in the city. He had the liver replacement and has been drying out. Turns out he has another son. Matt Hunter is a med student at Columbia. He just turned up.” replied Jeff. “After this is over, I promised to talk to Patrick and send him down to talk to his father.”
“Your son, hasn't had any sleep in a few days. Why don't you relieve him.” she said then went down to where she was cleared to leave. There had been too much death and she just wanted to be home and curled up in Steve's big old chair and comforted by the knowledge that it wasn't her family while she cried for those that had lost so much.
Elizabeth gently hang up the phone, wiping the tears away at the loss of life that was the result of nothing more than greed. Walking up the stairs, she checked on Lia then sat down and took out her old caricature book, needing to remember people from a better time.
Patrick listened to what Jeff Webber had to say in shock then said “I will sleep on it, that is the best I can offer. By the way, this vaccine, it looks like they got a hold of Elizabeth's blood somehow. For now, I am going to the on call room, and getting some sleep.”
~&~
The Quartermaines were numb as they got the news. Dillon was doing better but he was refusing to leave Lulu's side saying she had no one but them. Tracy had been screeching about it, but Monica had pulled her off to the side and said “We really don't need to do this now. Alan has had no sleep, driving straight here from the city, I have been treating patients without much sleep for days. Go home, sleep on it and remember Tracy, at least your son is alive.”
Tracy flinched at the reminder of what had happened mere minutes ago. AJ had been declared dead by Robin as she had covered his head, then reached out to try and comfort a distraught Carly. She had been shocked at how the blond had been so upset. When Jasper Jacks had returned her to her room, Robin had silently followed planning on giving her a sedative but watched as Carly quietly wept and talked to Jax about her sons father.
~&~
Jason returned home, “She didn't expect us to double cross her. Sam is dead.”
Not saying a word, Elizabeth drew him off and told him. “AJ. AJ didn't make it. There was too much damage done by the virus.”
As his wife held him, Jason cried for his lost brother, the man he had spent years apart from and who he had only reconciled with in the last few years. For Carly who had come to respect the father of her child and for his own parents, who were losing a son yet again. Feeling Elizabeth's arms around him, he asked “Who else?”
“Alexis and Nathan are fine. When I talked to Jax, Carly and she were together. But Nik, Nik hasn't woke up yet.” she said with a sigh. “Tony Jones didn't make it and Lulu made it but is an emotional wreck with everything going on.”
“What about Kate Howard?” he asked worried about his friend and how he would deal with things.
“She is holding her own, but she can't be given the vaccine until she gives birth. Johnny called they are going to do so in the morning.” she said quietly. “I talk to grams, they are going to start disinfecting the hospital tomorrow so I can go and visit the day after. For now, I can't. I hate this.”
~&~
At GH, Georgie was sitting on the roof, crying in relief and yet feeling guilty about those who hadn't made it. “I thought I would find you up here.”
Standing, she saw the look in his eyes and ran into Johnny's arms saying. “What are you doing here?”
“It's over. They have the vaccine. Holly Sutton is under arrest, Sam McCall is dead and a certain preschooler wants to know when you and she are going to go to the ice rink.” he stated then pulled her back a bit to say. “Lansing is dead, so is Anthony. Tomorrow I am talking to the people at Social Services and we should have permanent custody of Kitty by the end of the week.”
“Good, because if I get accepted we are so going to England and far away from the insanity that Port Charles draws.” she said as she pulled his head down for a kiss then suddenly pulled back and turned her head.
“Georgie?” he asked wondering what was going on. “Why did you stop?”
Embarrassed, she gave a quick chuckle then said “I haven't brushed my teeth in days. There is no way we are kissing yet. I want a shower, a hot meal that didn't come from the cafeteria and to sleep in our bed for a week.”
~&~
As the next few days passed funerals were held, lives were mourned and others moved on with their future. Nik still hadn't woken up however and Emily was getting scared. “Robin what is going on?”
“We don't know.” she said sadly. “I wish I knew.”
Kate went into premature labor and when the little girl was born, Johnny sat there and prayed for her mother to make it. When she didn't, he wasn't alone. Olivia had arrived to support her son and cousin and found herself emotionally helping the man as he dealt with becoming a single father.
The Quartermaine funeral for AJ was unlike them, it was discreet and without anyone creating a scene, mainly for the sake of Michael who didn't understand how he could lose two fathers within a matter of a week. He had clung to his mother and to Jax who had been spending most nights at Carly's helping her as she grew stronger.
Edward and Lila decided to go on a trip a few days later. She had pointed out that life was too short for regrets and she wanted to live it to the fullest. As they sailed out of town on The Wind Seeker, Jason stopped to whisper his thanks to his grandmother before waving goodbye.
“Are you ever going to tell me?” asked Elizabeth when they returned to the penthouse.
“We knew Sam would be suspicious, but we also knew she would never think to search Lila. While I handed over the case with the money, the guard I had with Lila pulled the gun hidden behind her back.” he stated. “We knew she couldn't be trusted and we were right. She tried to say that the vaccine was in her hotel room.”
Over the next few months, Jason and Elizabeth along with Lia moved into their dream home. Carly had been decorating it for them, but everyone could see she was mourning the loss of AJ and even Sonny. When they had talked about it, she had told Elizabeth that while she blamed Sonny for the loss of Michael in the other life, she had regrets about his death. “I feel like I caused it. Same with AJ.”
“But he wasn't alive in that other time line.” she pointed out.
“I know it doesn't make sense. Then there is Luke. I didn't always get along with my uncle, but no matter what else, he was entertaining in a screw up sort of watching a car accident happening sort of way.” she admitted flushing.
“What about Jax, wasn't this when the two of you connected?”
“Yes and we are moving towards a serious relationship. I am a different person, and so is he. I just can't help the regrets. I thought I would save more people than I did.” she stated. “But it's like fate as plans of it's own and that terrifies me.”
“Don't let it. Carly, life changes, we just have to adjust to the change.” she said hugging the blond who stood and said “I have to go, I promised the boys they could visit with Momma. She is keeping Kitty tonight.”
“I heard about that. Georgie got accepted at all four schools. I know that Alexis and Mac were planning on talking to them about what is going to happen next.” she said as she struggled to stand. “Wow, there are days....”
“I can't believe it, twins.” said Carly with a smirk. “Do you know if it will be a boy or a girl?”
“The one in front is a boy, that is all we do know.” she replied as she went to meet Jason for lunch at the coffee shop.
Jason had set up the room, planning on having a semi-romantic lunch with his wife when she entered sat down then looked at him and calmly said “I am in labor.”
“WHAT!!!” he shouted then called down and said “Are you sure?”
“Yup.” she replied with a smile. “Lets go daddy.”
When their little boy was born, Jason looked at Jake and then at Elizabeth who was suddenly bearing down again. Holding his wife's hand, he could feel the bones in his fingers aching as she tightened her grip exponentially as the pain started.
When Kelly Lee announced they were the proud parents of another girl, Jason asked if she had come up with a name for a girl. “Alana.”
“So Jake and Alana.” said Kelly as she went to tell the family that all was well. Out in the hallway, she saw the mob and said “A boy and a girl.”
“Names and are they healthy?” asked Alan with a smile.
“Yes and I can't tell you just yet.” she teased then went to the hub.
As they took turns visiting the now resting mother and excited father, getting the names, and the various measurements, the crowd started to thin until all that was left was the three woman and Jason.
Carly watched as her friends talked about their children and teased her about having a little girl with Jax, seeing Jason standing there, his fingers touching both babies and she knew, she knew this was the way it was supposed to turn out all along.
Stepping closer, she said “I am so happy for you, that you got the life you deserve.”
“What about you?” he asked. “Were the changes enough to give you the life you wanted.”
“I hope so, I know so.” she said then hugged her friend for the first time in ages and knew, she knew that the woman who had been so obsessed with controlling Jason, had lost something important life and while Michael getting hurt had done a number on her, what she had lost was her self confidence and this Carly, she wasn't going to waste a single moment in regrets, not any longer.
Going home, she called Jax and said “That trip you were offering for when Michael is out of school, is it still open?”
“Then we are very happy to be going with you.” she said before taking out the notes and tossing them into the fire. From now on, no looking back, only forward...
Epilogue
Carly had let go the past and moved forward to the future and what a future it was... it was the very day she had gone back in time and when she looked around and compared her life she had to laugh at the sad soul her alter ego had been.
Her son Michael was a handful but a good handful who thought riding his skateboard through the hotel lobby to visit his grandmother Jane was a good idea. Morgan was still quiet, but she made certain her sons knew they were equally loved. When their little sister Joss had been born, Carly had been worried that Jane who had stayed in town and chosen to run the hotel for them, would play favorites...
She did, she favored Carly. When there was a decision to be made, she was usually on the side of her daughter in law to her son and grandson's frustration.
Seeing her mother coming across the lobby holding onto a little blond girls hand, she sighed at her getting stuck babysitting for Lulu yet again. Lulu hadn't learned to stop playing games and had set out to seduce Damien Spinelli wanting his help to prove who had murdered her father.
When he had fled parenthood and town, absconding without a trace, Bobbie had taken in her niece and soon found herself playing parent to their daughter Laura. Lulu was out chasing whatever new man came to town.
Nik hadn't woken up, he had died as the result of a brain tumor that no one had known about. Emily was slowly moving on and after walking away from the Cassadine legacy that had cost her so much, was now dating Matt Hunter who had come to work at GH after graduating medical school.
His brother Patrick had gone from interested bachelor to married dad when Robin had found out she was pregnant as the result of their assignation when he had thought he was HIV positive. Emma was the spitting image of her mother, but Carly saw Patrick's impish grin when she looked at that little girl.
Alexis was standing in the kitchen watching as Kristina tried to convince her father that she didn't have to wear shoes to meet the jet bringing home her sister. “But Nathan always takes his off.”
“But you are older and you are at least wearing sandals.” stated Mac as he handed her the shoes and watched as she pouted but put them on. “Alexis, a little help please?”
Kissing her husband, she whispered that she thought he was handling it just fine. “Just like you always do.”
When they had found out she had lung cancer, Mac had stood by her all the way then when she was healthy enough had Maxie take the kids away for a week then laid into her about hiding it from him. They had spent the time alone arguing, then reaffirming their love.
Alexis had come to face that no matter what, no matter the insecurities, she had, Mac was going to be there. When Nathan paddled into the room, she hid her smile when Mac gave a heavy sigh, then picked up the trouble maker and asked “Shoes?”
“Lake daddy.” he said with a grin.
When Mac had gone to get yet another pair of shoes, he grumbled that this was revenge for his saying boys were easier.
“Are you ready yet?” asked Maxie as she bounced into the room excitedly. “We have to get going, now.”
“Almost, wait, I thought you were going with that new guy of yours.” asked Alexis.
“No, I haven't decided on him yet.” she said shrugging.
AT the airport, they watched for the chapter jet that was bringing home their wandering relatives. “Daddy, is that it?” asked Kristina.
Mac took a thrill still after all this time with being called daddy. Smiling he tugged on her braid and said “Yes, that is it.”
When they went to customs, they watched as an excited eight year old ran to greet them. “Hi!”
“Hey sweetie.” said Alexis hugging the dark haired little girl. “Where is Georgie and Johnny?”
“Probably kissing again.” she said in a resigned tone. “They are always kissing now.”
Maxie thought about the news that Georgie had given her, that they had gotten married and had yet another surprise for the family. Hearing Alexis gasp, she felt her own eyes widen as she took in the couple coming their way. “Er, Georgie, you have some explaining to do.”
Seeing their face, she protested laughing. “No, I swear he isn't ours.”
“Then who?” she said as looked at the baby in the stroller while Johnny set down their bags and told the driver who showed up where to take them.
“You won't believe me.” she teased then said “We are only the transport. I promise.”
“Georgie?” they heard the male voice call out. Turning they saw Skye and Lorenzo standing there. “Is this...”
“Yes, Skye, ...”
The red head gently took the baby, then with tears in her eyes said “Thank you.”
“I have your paperwork.” said Johnny handing Lorenzo the file but the man wasn't even paying any attention to them. Chuckling, he looked at the relived expression on Mac's face and said “Georgie and I are waiting until she is a few years older. This little ones mother was a friend of Skye's. She didn't make it and knew that it was possible. She called her the other day and then Sage called Georgie.”
When the new parents had walked off, Johnny hugged his family then said “Did Maxie tell you?”
“I can keep a secret you know.” glared the tiny blond.
“Okay, we got married.” he said holding out his and Georgie's hands to show off their rings. “I asked her to marry me, like I talked to you about sir, but when she said yes, I knew I didn't want to wait and neither did she.”
Mac choked up at the idea of his little girl being married, but was relieved that she wasn't a mother as well. “What is your other surprise then?”
“We are staying. We bought a place here in town and I was wondering if you would be interested in letting me buy your old club.” he asked Mac. “The agency as well.”
Elizabeth hung up the phone then looked around the house that looked like a hurricane had hit it. “Jason, where are you?”
Sticking his head out the door for the study he said “Here.”
Walking around the toys and the puppy, Elizabeth said “What happened to our children?”
“They are in here.” he said acting all innocent. When she joined him, she saw the three of them sitting on the sofa, all pretending to be doing nothing.
What is going on here?” she asked her hands on her hips.
“Nothing, nothing mommy.” they all said. “Mommy, can we go out to dinner?”
Seeing Jason's face, she asked “Kelly's.”
“Yeah. Yah, yes mommy.” said the trio as they quickly left the room.
“Jason Morgan what are you and our children up to?” she asked with a smirk. “After all this time I know when you are up to something.”
Kissing his wife, he said “You will just have to be patient and wait.”
When they entered the diner, she saw her father and her brother waiting along with several members of their family and friends who lived in town. “What is going on, Jason?”
Sitting her down, he said “Do you know what today is?”
Seeing her shake her head no, he gave a slow smile then said “Ten years ago to the day, was the day I fell in love with you.”
Seeing the tears and confusion in her eyes, he leaned down and gave her a soft kiss then whispered. “August 12, 1999. You walked into Jake's, both of our lives were a mess and you went looking for trouble. By the end of the evening, I knew... I knew I was in falling for you.”
Seeing the look on her face, he said “I have something I want to show you.” Leading her out of the building, to her old studio, he showed her the renovated building then removed the cover over the sign.
“Jason, what on earth?” she asked as she saw the sign Morgan Art Gallery. “But Jason...”
“I know, I hired Olivia to work for you running it, but Elizabeth, you should display your paintings.” he said opening the door. Inside he showed her the paintings she had given people over the years inter spaced with paintings from other artists.
“You said you only regretted not getting a chance to show your art.” he said then saw her smile as she threw herself into his arms.
“Jason, you didn't have to do this but thank you.” she said as she looked around. Seeing Johnny O'Brien talking to Olivia and holding onto his little girl Catherine's hand, she said “Did you know about this?”
“Yes, Olivia and Brenda got the artists to agree to showing here and I just worked on providing the security.” he said then hugged her while Emily approached with a smile as she hugged Elizabeth.
“Do you have any idea how hard it was for Carly to keep this a secret.” she asked “Let alone me.”
That night, Jason and Elizabeth were tucked into bed, her mind going to what Carly had told them had happened and what they had lived through. Reaching over, she tucked her head into Jason's shoulder and whispered “I have my own present for you.”
“I know.” he said knowingly. “I figured it out yesterday morning when you were sick. Thank you.”
Sitting up, she said with a laugh. “I love you too. Do you remember the first time you told me that? I was so surprised because I would have thought Carly was right, that I would have to tell you first.”
“You did.” he said sitting up against the headboard then reminded her about their conversation as they left the hospital. Elizabeth gave a laugh as she realized she HAD been the one to tell him first.
“So all these years...” she said pretending to be angry with her hands on her hips. “Here I thought you were so brave... telling me first.”
Jason pulled her down onto him saying. “Like the stories that the girls like. And the best part is the end of the story... They all lived happily ever after....”
The End...




